OUR LIFE'S BLESSINGS

2012-01-30T18:20:00.000-06:00

A little something I found on Pinterest:)

I just LOVE this!!!

So True!!!

Avocado Grilled Cheese:)

I'm so gonna make this!!! YUM!!!

Mexican Chicken & Rice Soup...my remake...

2012-01-29T18:24:00.000-06:00

Okay, so a couple of weekends ago, my husband and I spent a great weekend with friends at the Houston Rockets game....

Here's a pic of the game from our view....

Here's a pic of my honey and friend with two of the Rocket's Cheerleaders....

UMMM....and here is a pic of my FAVORITE part of the night:) The dessert cart that visits the suites!!! YUM!!!!

Anyways, back to the real meaning of this post.....after we enjoyed a night with friends at the game, we were able to spend some quality time together (which RARELY happens with two teenage girls and two busy careers) BUT....we lived it up!!!

We were eating at a restaurant in Houston at I ordered a cup....big mistake, should have ordered a bowl...of the most AMAZING soup!!! I am a soup lover, as you can probably tell from my previous blog posts:) So.....I studied the soup intensely to figure out all of the flavors and to see if I could recreate it when I got back to my kitchen! Well.....I think I did....and if not, I came REALLY close:)

Here's how I did it.....

I took 3 boneless and skinless chicken breasts and seasoned them with salt, pepper, thyme and drizzled them with olive oil. I quickly seared them on a grill pan on top of the stove for about 3 minutes on each side, and then I placed two salted ears of corn on the grill pan with the chicken and placed in the oven for roasting for about 20 minutes on 375 degrees. (Turning the corn every 6 minutes of so for an even roasted corn.)

Meanwhile, I cut up in chunks 1 medium onion, 1 orange bell pepper, 1 zucchini, 12 small yellow squash and 4 carrots. I add a little olive oil to the bottom of a stock pot and begin to sauté the onion and bell pepper with salt, pepper, cumin (a generous amount), red pepper flakes and freshly chopped garlic, cilantro and thyme. When the vegetables became tender, I added the remaining vegetables to the pot and added 1 can of diced tomatoes and 2 cartons of chicken stock.

Meanwhile, while the chicken was cooling, I cut the roasted corn off of the cob and added to the soup mixture. Once the chicken was cooled, I sliced each piece and added the chicken and the juices to the stockpot. At this point, I also slice a lime in half and add the juices of the lime to the stockpot. I let the soup mixture simmer on the stove for about an hour to incorporate all of the flavors together.

Meanwhile, while the soup was simmering, I started a pot of cilantro lime rice that is served with the soup upon serving. ( A MUST....it really needs this added treat and in my opinion, makes the soup heartier!!) Here's how the rice is made....

1 cup of rice

1 tbs of olive oil

1 lime freshly squeezed and zested

1/4 cup of freshly chopped cilantro

1 1/2 cups of water

1/2 tsp salt

Okay....now that I have listed all of the ingredients....here's the process! Add the olive oil to a sauce pan and toast the rice until coated with a little salt. (Sometimes, I add in a finely chopped shallot for extra flavor.) Once the rice has been toasted for about 2 to 3 minutes, add the water, lime juice and zest and 1/2 of the chopped cilantro to the sauce pan. Stir and let the rice mixture come to a boil and simmer all of the liquids out. Once this happens, turn the stove off and cover the rice pot for 5 minutes to finish cooking. Once finished, fluff up the rice and add the remaining cilantro....serve up a bowl of the Mexican Chicken Soup and top the bowl off with a nice scoop of Cilantro/Lime Rice and some avocado slices!!!! So YUMMY!!!! You will not be disappointed with this one! Give it a try and let me know what you think about the recipe:)

Happy Sunday everyone!!!

I think I might make another pot today....looks and sounds so yummy I can't resist!!

Christmas Card 2011

2011-12-28T11:57:00.001-06:00

She is...another year older!

2011-11-12T19:46:00.001-06:00

I've always heard that a picture says a thousand words....in this case, that phrase is true!!!! I have looked at these pics so many times today and each time I find myself remembering and thinking of different things. Having children these days is hard, especially if you are concerned about raising Godly children in this crazy world that we live in!!!! It is especially hard when you have an Autistic child to raise also!!! Unless you find yourself in our same position....it's hard to understand exactly what I mean....it's hard, but God does not put anything on us that we cannot handle!!! I know that HE is there with us and is providing the guidance and the strength that we need. Here she is....celebrating another birthday this next Friday....the adjective that best describes her today....."humbling"!

How fast time flies.....

Happy Birthday ABW

Thank you for being just who you were meant to be!!!

I Love You!!!

Chicken Spaghetti YUM!!!

2011-11-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

Okay, so, I have tried MANY different recipes for Chicken Spaghetti in my 20+ years of cooking, and I can FINALLY say.....I can STOP trying!!! I found THE one, the ONE and ONLY!!! So yummy!!! All credit will have to go to my newest favorite Food Network host, Ree Drummond....AKA...The Pioneer Woman! I made this for my family this week and they LOVED it!!! I love it because it is different than any other chicken spaghetti recipe that I've tasted so far.....it's spicy!!!! I don't know if it's my Louisiana roots that enjoys that extra kick and flavor from the cayenne pepper or if it's just my love of SPICY, but either way.....the cayenne pepper is the ticket!!!!

Here is the link where you can find the recipe and the "How-To" to make this wonderful meal!!

The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Spaghetti

I did however make some minor changes just to "lighten" it up a bit!!! It didn't dissappoint! I used 2% milk cheese products and the fat free Cream of Mushroom Soup!!! Also, I used a little more than the 2 cups of chicken broth stated in the recipe to make it a little more creamy and moist!!! I will do that again, maybe even add more the next time!

Love, Love, Love!!!

Family Celebrations

2011-10-09T11:17:00.000-05:00

What a GREAT Family Celebration we had this weekend!!! It's not often that you can celebrate a 50th Wedding Anniversary these days....but, that's just what our family did yesterday!!! We are so thankful to have parents who are Godly examples of what marriage is supposed to be!! Happy Anniversary Uncle Jim and Aunt Shirley!!!

We love you!

For more pics from their fabulous party, check out http://lifesblessings.smugmug.com.

Blackberry Cobbler on the Food Network

2011-09-25T10:50:00.000-05:00

Blackberry Cobbler on the Food Network

I think that I may be trying this today for my family!!! It looks easy, fast and yummy:) Just what we need on a beautiful Sunday to follow up a nice, calm and peaceful Sunday dinner!!! I think I will use blueberries and nectarines for my fruit....Love mixing it up a bit:) Happy Sunday friends!!!

Romans 5

¹Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

...Inspiration from "The Pioneer Woman"!

2011-09-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

While watching one of my new, favorite Food Network shows this weekend, I was delightfully reminded of a breakfast treat that I was introduced to by a family friend YEARS ago!!! I remember, at the time of my introduction to this breakfast item, being amused not only by the name of the dish, but also by the process in which it was made! "One Eyed Jack's"!!!!

We had them often as children in my home after our friend, Tina, made them for us. My sisters and I would laugh at the look of them and their name, as giggly girls sometimes do!! Nevertheless, all the giggling did not diminish the yumminess of our breakfast, nor did it hinder us from asking for seconds. What a filling and comforting way to start any day!!! I took my inspiration from "The Pioneer Woman", Ree Drummond, http://thepioneerwoman.com and my fond childhood memories and put my own spin on an updated version of the One Eyed Jack's for my family this morning!!! I aim to please, and that is just what I did!!! Why don't we call it...."One Eyed Jack meets One Eyed Jill Cheesy, Bacon Breakfast Sandwich"???? Haha....try to say that 5 times really fast!!!:)

You will need:

2 slices of bread, (any kind you have on hand will do) and make a circular cutout using a biscuit or cookie cutter....you can also just use a glass...that's what I did this morning
a generous amount of butter melted in the pan
two eggs...one for each slice of bread
salt, pepper
one slice of cheese....provolone, mozzarella, american, whichever you like best (I see a gourmet One Eyed Jack and One Eyed Jill Cheesy, Bacon Breakfast Sandwich in my near future...)
Bacon roasted in the oven on 400 degrees for 20 minutes....it's just better that way!!!

Place a generous amount of butter in a medium high pan and melt completely. Place the two pieces of bread in the pan along with the rounds that you cut out. (Those make for a yummy addition to nibble on or eat along side of the sandwich.) Next flip the bread over after about 30 seconds or so and crack open an egg in each center of the bread. Leave them untouched for a minute and then poke a hole in the yoke of each egg, salt and pepper to taste, then flip the bread pieces over to toast on the other side. Additional butter may be required in the skillet at this time. Once both pieces are cooked on both sides, place one to two pieces of bacon on one side of the bread and then top with your favorite cheese. Place the other One Eyed Jack on top and cover with a lid to melt the cheese. You will only need about 30 seconds or so for the cheese to melt. Once melted, pull out of skillet, cut in half and serve with coffee, milk or orange juice! This is a hearty breakfast all on it's own:)

Enjoy!!!

"Chicken Soup Blessings..."

2011-08-31T19:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, so Amanda is not feeling well today....been in school 1 week and 3 days and has a nasty cold!!!! YUCK!!!! Anyway, in efforts to make her feel better and to put me to work while she slept the afternoon away....I made her a chicken noodle soup:) After all, soup heals everything...or, at least I think so!!!!

Chicken Noodle Soup....MY VERSION

Roast chicken tenderloins in the oven at 375 for about 20 minutes. (Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and thyme.....drizzle with olive oil)

7 to 8 chicken tenderloins

salt

pepper

garlic powder

onion powder &

thyme...sprinkle these over the chicken tenderloins and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil...

While the chicken is roasting, dice your onion, bell paper, carrots, parsley and celery.

1 medium onion

1 green bell pepper

6 carrots

2 tbs. of parsley

2 stalks of celery, plus the hearts

Sauté the vegetable mixture in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for about 5 minutes. (Don't forget to season each addition with salt and pepper.) The onions will be translucent and the vegetables will be tender. Add 2 chicken bouillon cubes to the vegetable mixture and add one can of cream of chicken...fat free, of course and one can of cream of celery...fat free also. Stir the vegetables to make sure all is coated with the soup mixture. Once all diced vegetables are added and stirred into the soup mixture, add one can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the soup. Add 5 cups of low sodium chicken broth to the vegetables and beans and then add 1 bay leaf.

When the chicken has cooled, shred it into small pieces then add to the soup.

Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes so that all of the ingredients can come together. Just before serving, add 1 cup of broken angel hair pasta or any small pasta or egg noodle that you choose. Cook about 6 to 8 minutes and add fresh chopped parsley and 1/2 cup of frozen peas at the very end. It makes a YUMMY chicken noodle soup and HEALS the soul and whatever else is ailing you!!! Here's hoping that it helps my sweet Amanda get over her cold:)

YUMMO!!!!

3 John 1:2

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. KJV

What about these savory treats????

2011-07-16T06:55:00.001-05:00

Source: foodnetwork.com via Elise on Pinterest

Considering my love for baking cupcakes, I will need to try these yummy cupcakes soon!!!! What's not to love???? "Souped-up" Macaroni and Cheese baked in a personal size cupcake:) Makes me happy just thinking about it!!!

Pizzeria Heaven

2011-07-12T22:17:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhh....Magnifico!!!! The BEST pizza I've ever eaten.....still!!!! The first time I sank my teeth into this delectable pizza was at Grimaldi's original location....Brooklyn, NY!!! I can tell you from that moment on, I was hooked!!! The atmosphere alone made it worth the wait!!!
Imagine my delight in finding that several locations were opening up in my home state....Texas!!! We have made it to all, but one of them and I'm proud to say....I'm never disappointed with my order!!! In fact, I think I've turned my entire family into Grimaldi-Attics!!!
My favorite, of course, is the Margarita version with their homemade red sauce!!!! Soooooo yummy:) If you are ever near a Grimaldi's Pizzeria, you have to try it for yourself!!! Im betting you'll be hooked also!!!!

Banoffee Mess on the Food Network

2011-06-29T17:58:00.002-05:00

Banoffee Mess on the Food Network

YUMMO!!!

I cannot take credit for this yummy dessert!!!! I was watching one of my ALL time favorite's on The Food Network, and I couldn't resist making the recipe just to curb my curiosity!!! You can get the recipe from the above link.

It is SOOO good! I made it a little on the lighter side by using the Non-Fat Sweetened Condensed Milk:)

Guess what Claire???? I couldn't wait the hour for the pie to set either:) Soooo good!!!

Raspberry & White Chocolate Cupcakes

2011-06-29T09:30:00.000-05:00

Light & Fluffy:)
You can take your favorite white cake recipe and jazz it up anyway you would like!!! The possibilities are endless....but on this day, I chose to mix a homemade raspberry puree and my white chocolate ganache with my favorite white cake recipe!!! It DIDN'T disappoint!!!

To the batter, I added a tablespoon of raspberry liqueur to slightly flavor the the cake and add a backdrop of taste to this creation. Once the cakes were baked, I poked a hole in the middle of each one with the handle of my trusty wooden spoon. This allowed enough space to fill each cupcake with my homemade puree of raspberry sauce.
Raspberry Sauce:
1 pint of raspberries
1/4 cup of water
1/4 cup of granulated sugar
1/4 cup of raspberry jam

Place all of the ingredients above in a saucepan and simmer together until the berries have cooked into the sauce. Strain the raspberry seeds out of the mixture and cool. Place the puree in a piping bag and fill each cupcake with a generous dollop of the mixture.
**Note...this raspberry sauce can be used for many things!! Yummy on ice cream, drizzled over pound cake, an accompaniment to a chocolate souffle or over a yogurt parfait!!**

Now...on to the frosting!!! This frosting is a LIGHT, YUMMY frosting that is sure to please:)
White Chocolate/Raspberry Frosting:
1/2 pint of fresh raspberries that have been mashed
1 tbs of granulated sugar (added to the raspberries)
1 cup of whipping cream (flavored with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar)
1 tsp of raspberry liqueur
1/4 cup of tempered white chocolate

Mix together the tempered white chocolate and the fresh raspberry mash. Once these two ingredients are mixed together, fold them into the whipped cream that you have flavored with the above ingredients. Place the frosting in a piping bag. Top each cupcake with a generous topping of the yummy White Chocolate and Raspberry Cream! Garnish with a fresh raspberry and drizzle white chocolate ganache all over the top of the cream!!! Delish!!!!

S.U.M.M.E.R

2011-06-04T21:05:00.001-05:00

Late nights...
Sleeping late...until 7:30, or so....
No school lunches to make...
No clothes to lay out the night before....
NO HOMEWORK OR TESTS to harass your children about....or calendar....or check up on with Parent Connection....
Laundry done....check
Kitchen clean....check
Bed's made....check
Floor's swept....check
Furniture polished....check
OK....HOUSE CLEAN.....Ah, YES!!!
No paper's to grade....
No data to check....
NO LESSON PLANS....
No faculty meetings....
No center's to change out...
Spontaneous girl trips:)....
Vacations....
Swimming, tanning, fishing, cooking, baking, shopping, picture taking.....
Beach...
Hill Country...
Home cooked breakfast's...lunches....dinners...:)
Family togetherness....sisterly love...sometimes...:)
Cook out's....
Water Park's....
TIME to relax and rejuvenate for the fall that's coming....
Some reflecting....
Ah....what's NOT to love about a Teacher/Mother's S.U.M.M.E.R.?????

"Loving MY Holland"

2011-04-02T16:49:00.000-05:00

A friend sent this to me this week and I LOVED it so much that I wanted to share it here!!! I'm personally thankful for my DETOUR to Holland!!!! It makes my journey to Italy that much more appreciated!! It is a very powerful and meaningful read!!! Enjoy:)

"WELCOME TO HOLLAND I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this...... When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting. After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland." "Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy." But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place. So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met. It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned." And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss. But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.
by Emily Perl Kingsley

PS....Don't forget to "Light It Up Blue"!!!! April is Autism Awareness Month....help us support the cause!!!

"Snow Blessings"

2011-02-06T17:08:00.000-06:00

Another CRAZY Winter in Texas!!! We just had a VERY cold week this last week....this is very unusual for our location, as we do not see that type of precipitation very often. I am reminded that about a week ago, we had a cold front/rain roll into town and I heard thunder and saw lightening during that storm. I have always heard the old wive's tale that if you hear thunder in Winter, then you should see snow a week later!!! I guess according to our recent cold front and snow, I believe that to be true!!!

Although it did not snow an enormous amount, it was fun just the same. I never tire of seeing the beauty in a winter storm. So white, crisp, clean and pure! I marvel at the beauty of my surroundings being covered in white and icicles hanging everywhere!!! It takes me to a better place in my mind....of love and peace everywhere! After reflecting, maybe it's just the renewing that I needed as a person, mother, wife, teacher and Believer!!! I feel ready and confident in the road ahead.....so THANKFUL for revelations!

Here are a few pics that I captured during the beautiful Snow of 2011!! Enjoy!!!

Sledding in the SNOW!!!

Getting it all ready....

Not a ton of snow....but enough to enjoy a little pull by the buggy!

So peaceful!!!

Us!

Romans 12:2

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will."

Relaxing Blessings!

2011-01-22T17:59:00.000-06:00

Isn't it true that the most relaxing days are spent doing absolutely nothing with the ones that you love!!! Most people feel that if you have not been productive, your not living....I disagree! I like to work when it's time to work, play when it's time to play and relax when I want too!!! Cold, gloomy and rainy days are the best to take advantage of relaxing!! Nothing like the fireplace, a nice hot bowl or two of homemade soup and the love of your family around you to soothe the soul!!! I only wish these kind of days could come around more often!

"The Year in Pics:)"

2010-12-30T20:36:00.003-06:00

Our 1st and 2nd SNOW!!!

Amanda's GLASSES!!

Business/Fun Vegas Trip

CHALLENGE Day for Special Olympics!

CHEER Tryouts!!!

Meeting Mr. President!

Light it up BLUE!!! Autism Awareness!

PROM!

8th Grade Awards Ceremony

Heritage

CHEER Camp

20th Anniversary

Family Celebration Vegas Trip

Losing Maw Maw..

The Summer

The FARM

THE 1st "Wallace Tractor" Work on the Farm....done by ME:)

The 1st Football Game

Homecoming

Spirit Week

Cheer Competition

More Farm Work...with Amanda....

LAST GAME....FAMOUS 12 Over Time Game!!

Fall

Christmas

...and SO MUCH MORE!!! Thank you Dear Jesus for a BLESSED year and for the many You have in the making!!!

Matthew 9:29

"Then touched He their eyes, saying, according to your FAITH be it unto you."

19 and counting....

2010-11-18T05:51:00.001-06:00

...I cannot believe that she's 19 today...

What I've learned from her???
...there is too much to list, but here are just a few things...
the gift of patience,
unconditional love,
what it means to have a pure heart...
a strong will,
an endurance for life,
a humbleness for all HE does for us...
a compassion for others..
a reason to advocate for those who need it...
thankfulness for the blessings of today!!

Amanda....I love you with all of my heart and I am so thankful that you are my daughter!! You are a special Blessing to me and our family!!! Happy Birthday sweet girl...

Farm Living....

2010-08-29T11:51:00.001-05:00

Lots of hard work and plenty of sweat, but it is coming along!!! So proud of Ralph and Daddy!!

Matthew 5:3-12

Blessed [are] the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed [are] they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed [are] the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed [are] the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when [men] shall revile you, and persecute [you], and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great [is] your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

"This Hand"

2010-07-29T22:40:00.000-05:00

It was GRAND to me and many more! Literally...out of the two children that she raised, she was given eight more to love. That number grew in time to a number that is still growing! As I am sure each of her GRAND's are doing tonight, I am remembering with tears and smiles all of the memories that I will forever cherish of her!

From the earliest of times, I can recall the excitement and anticipation of her arrival, or ours, for a week long stay. I can hear the sound that the train tracks made through her living room windows after the train came speeding by in the middle of the night . I smell the rose petal bubble bath that she always had out at bath times and that "lovely" seashell door stopper that got all of our toes at one time or another. I can remember the candy dishes that were always filled with peppermints and gumdrops.

I can still smell the aroma of her kitchen...

I remember the little things that she did out of habit like hanging the kitchen rag over the cabinet below her sink for "airing" out, as she would say....

the way she ALWAYS had "thin mints" hidden in the refrigerator for an after dinner treat...(she always told me that she had them there "just for me", but I know better...she had seven others that thought just the same!)

There never was a meal served that did not have the three cherished "staples" that I still love today and serve quite often to my own family. Freshly sliced cantaloupe...ALWAYS sliced EXACTLY the same...cucumber salad and sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper. I know, it sounds simple, but honestly....we NEVER had a lunch or dinner without them and since I was always under foot as she cooked, I took note!!!

I do credit my love for cooking to her....that is something that we definitely had in common and she fostered that desire in me as a very young girl!

I am so thankful for that time with her in the kitchen. I will never cook a gumbo, pork roast, an etoufee or the three "staples" I mentioned earlier without thinking of her!

Many tears were shed today and right now as I am reminded that I won't have any more "kitchen time" with her.

As I close this post, I would like to say....

Maw Maw, I love you so much and I miss you already! You were an excellent GRAND to me! I want you to know that I treasure the memories that I have of you and not only the cooking and the recipes and the treats that were tucked away in your kitchen, but I will treasure the hair brushing and lotion applying and "story watching" that we did as well. You taught us all how to be young ladies and the importance of proper dress and a clean house....but mostly, you gave me my MOM. Thank you for her...I will continue to see you, through her, when she giggles. You were one of the strongest people I have known and I am so proud to be your GRANDDAUGHTER! I'll love you and Paw Paw forever! God speed...until I see you again, much love and hugs...from your kitchen to mine and back again!

http://ourlifesblessings.blogspot.com

"A penny for your thoughts...a seashell for your dreams.."

2010-07-12T17:37:00.000-05:00

We recently took a trip to the beach and my girls LOVE just walking on the sand and feeling the waves!!! Amanda's favorite thing to do is find seashells....well, this trip was no different!!
She never ceases to amaze me...In her mind, there is a rhyme and reason for the seashells that she chose to keep and those that she chose to leave for someone else. I will say that the ones that she chose to keep close to her...were different in many ways. Out of the handfull that she treasures, there is only one almost perfect one...the rest are worn or weathered and are odd in shape and colors!! Unsure as to what these shells have endured or battled while finding their way to her hands...but they are special to her all the same!
The one almost perfect one that I told you about, is delicate, small, pure and white...looks like angel's wings:)

Psalms 91:11

"For He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all of your ways."

Near and Dear to Her Heart.....

2010-06-27T16:22:00.000-05:00

"Gluten Free Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Cookies"

1 box of Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix

1 egg

1/2 cup (No-Sugar Added Applesauce)

1 cup of Gluten Free Rolled Oats

1 tsp. Gluten Free Vanilla Extract

Mix all the ingredients together as the directions request on the back of the box. (Note: the box directions calls for 1 stick of softened butter....I used the applesauce instead because of the Casein restriction on Amanda's special diet, and I used the dairy/casein free chocolate chips as well). I also added the oats for more texture and flavor. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 8 to 10 minutes.

Amanda LOVED them!!!! It makes me happy to see her enjoy her food:) She has done so well on her diet and I am thrilled to reward her with these yummy cookies!!!!

I think I did it....

2010-06-27T16:00:00.000-05:00

Okay....so I think that I did it:) One of my favorite Italian restaurants serves this chili and my family has fallen in love with it!!!! I think that I may have figured it out....my version at least!!! Try it, you'll love it!!!!

"Italian Chili"

Ingredients
1 lb. Lean Italian ground turkey
1 medium white onion diced
1 green bell pepper diced
1 large clove of garlic diced
1 1/2 cups of shredded carrots
1 tsp. of dried oregano
1 tsp. dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbs. fresh Italian parsley chopped
2 tbs. Extra virgin olive oil
2 15 oz. cans of drained and rinsed cannellini beans
1 15 oz. can of diced tomatoes
1 carton of chicken stock or 1 quart of homemade chicken stock
Cooking Instructions
On medium heat, brown the ground turkey in the olive oil with the seasonings, onion, bell pepper, garlic and carrots. ( About 10 min.) Once browned, add the tomatoes, beans and the chicken stock to the mixture. Let the chili cook on low heat for about 45 minutes so that all the ingredients can incorporate together and become the best tasting Italian chili that you have ever eaten!!!!!

To give it a thicker consistency, you can puree 1/2 cup of the cannellini beans before adding it to the chili.

**This recipe has been months in the making!!! After several attempts, I think that I have come close to the recipe for our favorite "Italian Chili":)

The Blessings of TODAY!!!

2010-05-30T09:54:00.002-05:00

Every year, I forget how busy the end of the school year can be!!!! I am so thrilled to know that we managed another hectic May with lots of events and milestones behind us! A month that is filled with anticipation and excitement for the upcoming summer...parties and awards to celebrate our school year....tying up loose ends to close this chapter....ceremonies and graduations to attend...parties to host....family members to honor, etc. What a wonderful time of year:) Actually, it's another reminder of how fast time is going and how important it is that we take time to soak up all that TODAY offers and be thankful that tomorrow brings new hopes and dreams!!

We are so proud of Em!!! Her performance in school this year was a great lesson that I hope she remembers throughout her high school and college years:) Thank you Lord for showing her that hard work, perseverance, believing in herself and trusting in YOU will always reward her in the end!!! Em....you are so smart, so beautiful and an awesome daughter and sister!!! To Em, I have to say....Daddy and I are so proud of the young lady that you have become and we are thrilled and excited to see what this next chapter...high school:(....has in store for you!!!

Last Pep Rally for Middle School!!!!

Thanks MMMS and friends for an AWESOME two years!!!! Look out HS, here they come!!!!

Our sweet "Manda" LOVED this year's Project Graduation!!! She won the first Bingo round and was thrilled with her $5.00 winnings!!! We are excited that she wanted to add it to her savings instead of spending it....she's learning:) What a great group of friends both of my girls have!!! I am so thankful for them!!

Another proud moment for me....my sister's very HANDSOME and loving son graduated and is on his way to OSU this fall!!!! So excited for him and for what the future holds for him! Brandon is a pure-hearted soul, with a love for God that is visible through his every action!! What a great example of what a young man should be!!! Thomas and Shell....you did GOOD!!!!

Our family GRADUATES are.....one college bound boy....one high school bound girl....one middle school bound girl.....one first grade bound girl.....(I might just add that FIRST GRADE ROCKS!!!!....I'm not biased or anything:)....and one Kindergarten bound DIVA!!!!!

Sweet cousins!!

Now, after all the ceremonial tasks are complete and the end of the school year parties are over....we are ready for summer and bring on the FAMILY FUN!!!!!

Ecclesiastes 3

1    To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2   A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3   A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4   A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5   A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain   from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7   A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8   A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
9   What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

http://ourlifesblessings.blogspot.com/

Gluten Free Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

2010-05-12T09:10:00.002-05:00

1 medium onion diced
1 carrot diced
1 celery stalk dice
1 package of mushrooms sliced
2 tbs. of extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. of fresh oregano
1 tsp. of fresh basil
1 tsp. of fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauté these ingredients together on medium heat until tender.

For meat sauce, add 1 lb. of Organic, farm fresh hamburger meat and sauté until done. Add 1 15 oz. can of Organic whole or diced tomatoes to the vegetables. Let the meat sauce simmer for about 45 minutes on low heat. Finish it off with fresh parsley and salt and pepper.

It makes a yummy gluten/casein/sugar free spaghetti and meat sauce!!!

Psalm 78: 24-25
"He rained down manna for the people to eat, he gave them the grain of heaven. Men ate the bread of angels: He sent them all the food they could eat."

"Happy Feet"

2010-05-08T16:31:00.000-05:00

Okay, we all have heard of the movie "Happy Feet", but this past week, I certainly witnessed the real meaning of "Happy Feet"!!! Our local school was lucky enough to have been chosen to host the Exceptional Prom for the special needs students around our area. You could not even begin to imagine the joy and excitement that these students experienced! It was a reminder to my husband and I how we, as everyday individuals, seem to take the smallest things for granted. For some of the kids we saw, this event was the thrill of their life!!!

Our daughter, Amanda, was one of the many participants at the prom. We had a GREAT time searching for that perfect dress, but the main item that Amanda was looking most forward to buying was her shoes!!! She was so excited that I was actually going to allow her to wear shoes that were not necessarily flat!!!! Just so you know, she had scoliosis surgery a couple of years ago and between that and the fact that she is already tall enough, coupled with the fact that she is not that steady on her feet as it is, you can understand the hesitation to allow her to do this!!!! Well, I had held her off long enough on the shoes and she was not giving into me at all about the heels:( We ended up compromising on a modest pair of shiny, black, strappy heels...couldn't have been more than an inch and a half or so....but, just the same, she was THRILLED!!!

The day finally came! Last minute purchases were made! Decorations and arrangements were placed! The "PROM" was here....Due to the fact that we were providing this event for our special needs community, it was held during the school day. So, a lovely morning getting pampered with the normal "girly" frills prevailed! Hair, makeup....(what she would allow) and of course, nails! We managed to talk her into some modest jewelry and some pictures with her dress and heels:) Nothing more than a date to the ball and a white carriage would do for our special princess! So, what do you know??? The "Best of Both Worlds" came! Her lifelong friend escorted her to the prom in a white carriage...a white limo!!! She was very excited about driving up to the school in her very own limo....In fact, when the limo driver opened the door for her, she quickly got out and proceeded to greet the other students standing there instead of waiting on her date!!! Not to worry, she quickly returned and they entered the dance arm in arm. Although it took a while for her to warm up to the idea of dancing instead of socializing...eventually, she gave in!!! She was most excited about her favorite line dance and song..."The Cha Cha Slide"!!! All the people there, parents, family members, students, volunteers, professionals, community members and of course, our special guests had the time of their lives!!! There were many enlightened hearts and teary-eyed onlookers! I wonder if it was the same "Happy Feet" moment that got to me?

Psalms 126:5 "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy."

"A Lesson Learned"

2010-04-26T20:09:00.000-05:00

Seems like forever since I've posted!!! Sorry....but these past couple of weeks have been a definite blur!!! So much to do and so little time to do it!!! Finding time to blog has been pushed aside by other events taking place these days!!! I'm sure that most of you can relate....especially if your a mom, hauling children around, keeping up with the family calendar, making special treats for friends or special gluten/casein free foods for one of your own, holding down a job, helping your husband at his office and that's just to name a few...!!! Believe me, I'm not complaining....I would rather be busy every day than trying to find something to keep me busy!!!

I guess mine and Ralph's "short" reprieve to Vegas was just the "power nap" that I was going to need when I returned!!! Literally!!

We had a fabulous three nights and four days together, even though he was conferencing for two of them!!! Just the time away from the everyday norm was a welcome treat!

Lesson Learned ....

Sometimes being pampered is NOT a great idea!!! If you didn't know what you were missing, chances are you'll be content with what you have!!

(Example #1: If you are not willing to pay for First Class everywhere you go, DON'T try First Class!!!! Oh, my goodness, I have never disliked "Coach" so much!!! The way home from Vegas was not as pleasant as the way to Vegas!!! Guess which one I went First Class on????)

(Example #2: "A limo ride to and from the airport is NOT what you need to get accustomed to Sheri"....says my sweet hubby! Okay...so I wasn't as enamored with the limo rides as I was with First Class, but needless to say, I could get accustomed to it, if I had to of course!!!)

(Example #3: Shopping without teenage girls, dining with my husband without teenage girls, laughing and being silly without teenage girls....ahhhhh, I love my girls very much, but I did love the time that Ralph and I were able to be "US" again!! Every marriage needs that time, that feeling.....)

Life with kids, girls especially, can be very full, trying, exciting and extremely tiring... If my life is ALL of that,

I must be doing it right:)

Proverbs 22:6
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

"It's All About The Blue"

2010-04-04T13:09:00.002-05:00

"Blue Friends"

April 2nd was National Autism Awareness Day...and we chose to help shine a "LIGHT" on Autism and the Spectrum and by honoring our daughter/sister/friend by joining in the fun with many supporters of the cause!! From dressing in blue to gluten/free "blue" pancakes,

blue pedicures,

blue flowers and picture backgrounds,

blue-plated sushi lunch...

and a game searching for blue objects....let's just say that we went all out!!!

What a great cause and what great participation!!! Check out the link to learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder!

http://www.lightitupblue.org

http://www.deafeatautismnow.com

"Hidden Blessings"

2010-03-07T19:08:00.002-06:00

What if the thing that you want the most turned out to be the thing that you needed the least????? This thought came to mind after I found that my daughter...who, by the way, is on a very strict diet for her overall health and well being....sniffed out a hiding place for chocolate kisses that even I had forgotten about!!!

When we crave something so bad, we tend to go after it even harder! What if we just rested in the fact that the thing we think we want, just wasn't right for us-so let it be? Maybe it was not the time for it...or, maybe this was not what God wants for our life. Hummmm....something to certainly reflect on!!

Sugar, not so good for my daughter right now, but try telling her that!!! Just with anything that we want, it is not easy to hear the reasons why we can't have it and it is even harder to accept it! I'm thinking...what thing do I want out of life that maybe just isn't the best for ME right now???

Psalms 37:4

"Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart."

"Peaceful Blessings"

2010-02-12T17:49:00.000-06:00

Every day is a "Gift" from God!
Every time that I let that fact slip my mind....HE reminds me in the most amazing ways!
It is not always so bold or so BIG, but...I'm aware of it just the same.

SNOW....wow....snow like we just experienced does not happen in our town very often!! You can imagine our delight as we watched it falling so gracefully and so peacefully throughout the evening and the morning.

I could describe this past week with many adjectives....enlightening, hopeful, renewed, cautious, aware, courageous, overwhelming, balanced, motivating, insightful...I could go on and on, but I believe you get the picture. During the week, I'll admit....there was a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts that ran through my mind! Upon reflecting, I know that these feelings are generated out of mine and my husband's love for our children and our family....One of our daughters suffers from ASD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and when we took her this week for a follow-up visit, we were encouraged by treatments that are now available and by the information that we gleened from the testing that was done through our visit. For the most part, we are very private about our lives...but I was so touched by the way God moved in my life this week, that I felt like I needed to share!

Most of all....LOVE...it exists everywhere...when we look for it...we can see it..
PEACE...it also exists...when we need it the most...when we ask HIM for it....we can feel it..
HOPE...like the snow that fell...it renews us...our spirit...our minds...so that we can move forward with what is ahead..
FAITH...I know that it is hard because it is not seen....I just have to believe and know that only through my FAITH, we will overcome.

I am so proud of the daughter that was courageous and willing these past couple of days!! I know that the sacrifices that she is making and that we, as a family, are making will all be worth it in the long run!!! Our plan is not easy, but through our FAITH, we will be successful!!!

Thank you Lord for the spirit of peace that we witnessed in our daughter during the visit..for the Godly physician that "You" guided into our lives...for the spirit of healing versus the spirit of greed that lies within all of the researchers that are fighting for our cause and....most importantly, for the renewing of our hope and faith with regard to our efforts! Regardless of the "nay-sayers"...I know that my path is clear and that my journey is claimed! Hebrews 11:1.."Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Hebrews 11:40.."God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect."

"Creativity At Work"

2010-01-27T07:44:00.001-06:00

Hum....let me try to explain...My sweet kiddo's at school are currently involved in a Flat Stanley exchange with another group of students at another school. They LOVE their Flat Stanley friends and want to bring them everywhere they go!!
They wanted to bring their friends to recess with them to show them all around the playground....only there was a problem....it was very WINDY that day!!!! Everytime they put their Flat Stanley friends down...to tie their shoes...to push a friend on the swing...to zip jackets, etc. the Flat Stanley's would fly away.
Being good hostesses of course, they brainstormed some ideas and came up with....tucking them away in a bed of cozy pine straw!! They were SO excited to show me their solution to the "Flat Stanley-Fly Away" problem!! So of course, I had to capture the moment in pictures!!!

Enjoy:)

Joshua 1:7 "Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go."

..."Cajun" Food & Family Blessings

2010-01-17T17:20:00.001-06:00

For many years, Ralph has wanted to learn how to make "Daddy's" famous 'Sausage & Tomato Gravy' with our Morgan-style 'homemade biscuits'.... well....today was his LUCKY day...

I was in the mood to show him:)....Hunting buddies....you can "thank" me later!!!

First...we started off with the biscuits...

2 1/4 cups of biscuit mix

2/3 cup of milk...which, by the way...we just 'eye ball'

1 pat of cold butter that we 'cut' into the mixture before adding the milk

1 pat of butter that is melted in a cast iron skillet in the oven set at 450 degrees
1 tbs. flour...reserved for dusting

Mix these ingredients together..careful not to overwork the dough...

form the biscuits by placing a handful of dough in a plate that you have placed flour in and then by rolling them in your hands, like you would cookies...
then, carefully roll the biscuit in the butter that was melted in the cast iron skillet on both sides and place in the skillet for baking.
Do the remaining biscuit dough in this manner until all dough has been used or the skillet is full.
Bake at 450 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.

Next....we started on the 'Sausage & Tomato Gravy'....he nicely sliced one link of sausage into about 1/8th inch slices....(keep in mind, this is HIS yummy deer sausage that he had made this hunting season from his laboring in the woods!)

...onto the the rest of the ingredients...

1 medium onion....finely diced

4 garlic cloves...also finely diced....(if your not a fan of garlic, you can use less)

2 tbs. of olive oil

2 tbs. chopped Italian leaf parsley

1/2 cup of chicken broth or water, whatever you have on hand...

1 can of crushed tomatoes or whole tomatoes...whichever you prefer..

1 tbs of flour mixed with chicken stock or water to make a flour slurry

salt to taste

a pinch of red pepper flakes

Begin by heating the olive oil in the pan...add the sausage to brown...about 5 to 8 minutes...

add in the onions, garlic, salt, red pepper flakes and the parsley...saute that together until the onions are translucent...add half of the chicken broth to De-glaze the pan from the bits of sausage and onion drippings....

add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes...

slowly add more chicken broth and the flour slurry...make sure that the burner is on low heat and let the sausage mixture simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes more. (You will need to keep a close eye on the mixture to make sure that it doesn't get too thick from the flour slurry....add more chicken stock if needed.)

Before serving, add some freshly chopped Italian leaf parsley for added goodness:)

Serve over biscuits for a YUMMY breakfast or dinner!!!!

My family has had many 'Sausage & Tomato Gravy' meals together....we looked forward to every one of them and are looking forward to the next one!!!

Enjoy Daddy's 'Cajun Sausage & Tomato Gravy' and Homemade Biscuit Recipe....

I enjoyed the time spent in the kitchen with Ralph....those times are precious and very memorable...stay tuned for his next "Cajun Family"cooking lesson:)

Joshua 2:12 (New International Version)

"Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign"

...Ornamental Blessings....!

2010-01-03T00:08:00.000-06:00

Tonight...."Operation: Christmas Take-down"!! I'm

happy to report....all is well!!!!

Unfortunately, when I began putting Christmas decorations

up this year, I noticed some MISSING items that

have caused me some minor panic

and sleepless nights!!! I have since recovered...

knowing full well that my meaningful husband and daughters probably did not realize that

the before mentioned items could possibly have been part of their "Impromptu" garage sale items

that they so generously laid out for quick sale back in the Spring....which, by the way, I just

happened to be out of town at the time.....That is my ONLY explanation for

their absence from my Christmas decor this year!!! HUM!....Furthermore, November of 2010...this will

not be the case! All Christmas items are logged and numbered, boxed and packaged with

GREAT care and will be fully accounted for when time to decorate again!!!

Of course, that will require not only my neat and organized packing system, but also

....it must be accompanied with my careful supervision when making it's way to the hibernation area in the attic!

Requiring, of course, me, my clipboard (with box numbers logged with correct items), a signed contract stating that all decorations have found their place safe and sound and can

be easily retrieved later this year....but also

maybe....even a megaphone for accurate hearing and placement in the attic...just in the event of a mishap:)

Ahhh, but seriously....I am thrilled to have celebrated yet another Christmas, filled

with family love, family laughter, and most importantly a family that is devoted to CHRIST!!!!

Honestly, I can't wait till later this year, when we uncover all of the Christmas ornaments and treasures that

make our way back into our home and reminisce about all of the

Christmas' past! Each memory and each ornament holds a special place in my heart! From the traditional Christmas balls....to the "homemade" treasures

that my children have made

over the years....each one is so very dear to me and

reminds me of how BLESSED we are

each day and each year to be together.... healthy.... loved and Saved!

Proverbs 4:23

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."

...hard to believe....Last Post of 2009!

2010-01-01T09:16:00.002-06:00

...how quickly the years go by....even more so as I get older! Well, 2009 was an INTERESTING year to say the least!!! Of course, I am "thankful" for each and every year, but I'll have to admit.....2009 was NOT one of our best!

I feel that 2010 has a lot of potential!!! I'm gonna keep the FAITH!!! Generations and generations before us have had their fair share of difficult years, and they have lived through them and learned from them....so should WE!!!! I feel certain that we will:) ....remember, I'm keeping the FAITH!!!

...I had a great time with my family, watching the fire, enjoying a great dinner, laughing and reminiscing about all of the "good" times that we shared this year....Oh, and we watched the ball drop in NYC to make our January 1, 2010....OFFICIAL!

HAPPY NEW YEAR.....better days ahead......in 2010!

II Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."

....a Christmas to remember:)

2009-12-28T23:09:00.000-06:00

Wow....this year was NO different than any other year when it comes to family!!! Mine, never ceases to amaze me!!! What a group! I am so BLESSED to have each member of my family and I am so thankful for the part that they, individually, play in my life!

My Mom & Dad:)

The "Initial 6"....which has turned into quite a bit more:) 2+5+4+5+4=20....plus 1 with Great experience...makes for an AWESOME family!!!!

Of course, there is MY "awesome" family....

ABW...18:( and EMW...13! Where does the time go????

We celebrated Christmas in full, family style:) Lots of laughs, lots of food, lots of gifts, LOTS of noise....and a Gingerbread contest that always results in a "teachable moment" about good sportsmanship. I'm not sure where it comes from, but there is quite a bit of healthy competition spirit in our family:).....Hum!!!!

Sweet "Christmas Morning" cousins....enjoying their gifts and their innocent ideas....but, thankfully remembering the TRUE meaning of Christmas....Jesus!!!

For the second time in our family, we were able to see one of our precious little ones be baptized during the Christmas season. What a GREAT Christmas present!!!!

God sends us PEACE when we need it and rewards us with great memories to guide us through the next phase of our lives:) So "thankful" for differences and for challenges....we GROW that way!!! .....regardless of the stares....the second glances....the well meant smiles....I get a blessing EACH and EVERY day through my life's journey.

...and then, I am reminded of the sweet innocence of Christmas again...I find myself just as mesmerized as the youngest member of my family! Christmas is a special time...with special people....celebrating a Special Person, Jesus Christ, MY Lord!

...Christmas always brings me back to my childhood....not only do I remember the reason that we ALL should celebrate Christmas, but I also remember all of the wonderful memories that MY PARENTS and MY SISTERS and I have shared.....and the many Christmas memories to come!.....

May your New Year be filled with LOTS of "Family Blessings"!!!

Matthew 1:21 "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-09T21:37:00.001-06:00

John 14:21 "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.”

"Updated Blessings"

2009-12-01T23:42:00.002-06:00

Wow....how time flies!!! So much going on in our busy lives that we forget to take the time to just reflect.....I'm guilty, I'll admit it! I do have a good reason though! It's called......MY LIFE!!!!! Whew....what a couple of weeks it has been! First, my sweet daughter had a HUGE birthday....we had to celebrate in our very own style, of course....

She was so excited to just have a family dinner and a little Surprise Ice Cream Party with a few friends!!!! At this party, I saw sweet, loving teenagers that have brightened my sweet girl's life so very much. Not just that night, but on a daily basis....they are lifelong friends...for the most part and have been a big part of her life since Kindergarten! There are still people who value the heart of a person rather than their status or abilities!!! Their presence at ABW's surprise party was greatly appreciated!

Then came....Family Thanksgiving Dinner #1.....what a great day! Four siblings were able to come together with their own loved ones to celebrate the Thankfulness that we share as a family!

Sweet cousins.....

Parents of the previous sweet cousins.....Ralph of EMW and Koda of Bella....

all of the youngest cousins....from 5 of the oldest cousins.....WHEW....it gets a little confusing at times!!! What a large and generational family this is....So Thankful!!!

Sweet sister-in-laws....catching up, talking game.....ha, ha!

The reason for the celebration....what a legacy....what memories....we are making them everyday!!!! So "Thankful" for all of the family in these photos and all of the family that are not in these photos! I am writing this entry and thinking at the same time what a great family I have on both sides....So "Thankful" for the true love of all, that makes a family work in one accord and be an example of the "True Love" that we should all possess! We are not all perfect, but, in God's eyes, we are....mistakes and all....He forgives us and loves us just the same. Not ONE person is above His divine love and mercy....so why shouldn't we all be striving to have that same acceptance of one another, as He does.....some of us try, some of us don't, some of us give, some of us won't, but..... we are FAMILY!!!! Thankful for it:)

Then came....Family Thanksgiving Dinner #2.....what a great day!!!! Great food, great company....great ending!!! So "Thankful" for each HARVEST that this year brought to my family....so many, I can't count! The Harvest of love, the Harvest of growth....in business and in our personal and spiritual lives.....the Harvest of guidance and friendship, health and maturity....what a Thanksgiving this year has been!!!

Psalms 95: 1-6

"O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms.
For the LORD is a Great God, and a Great King above all gods.
In His hands are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is His also.
The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land.
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker."

"Wordless Wednesday"

2009-11-11T21:17:00.000-06:00

Luke 22:19
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in rememberance of me.

"Love Blessings"

2009-11-01T10:28:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe, but today marks the 20th anniversary of meeting the "Love of my Life"! That's right, 20 years ago today, I was looking for a special song before I went to church, and Ralph was looking for movies to celebrate the end of final week in college!!! Little did we know, but we actually found much more than we intended to find! After our brief small talk and innocent name exchange in the check out line, we were on our way back to our normal lives. A phone call later that night from Ralph started a whirlwind romance that led us to where we are today!

It's funny, but Ralph and I celebrate this day as much as we celebrate our actual wedding day! It is a date that we will never forget! Happy Anniversary:)

"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." (NIV)
Luke 12:48

"Wordless Wednesday"

2009-10-28T23:20:00.003-05:00

Proverbs 4:21
"Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh."

"Seasonal Blessings"

2009-10-24T10:12:00.003-05:00

Wow....this is what I woke up to this morning:). My husband surprised me with our first fireplace fire of the season!!! I love cold mornings with a crackling fireplace, a nice cup of coffee, a safe and healthy family and a surprise visit from my dad!!!
There is something to be said for bow season....it means the men are feeling "manly" and "outdoors-y" and really enjoy early mornings, cutting wood, building fires, making a mean cup of "Joe" and providing for their families!!!! At least that's how it is in my family:). I love it!!!!
I'm also very thankful that Ralph was able to buy him a new buggy for the lease this fall! He has needed a new one for several years and he finally broke down and got one. We will all enjoy putting it to good use for many hunting seasons to come!!! "Seasonal Blessings" are a nice way to start any GREAT weekend!!!

James 5:7
Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield it's valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains.

"God's Artwork"

2009-10-19T05:57:00.002-05:00

John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. "

"Sheri's Italian Sausage & Spinach Soup"

2009-10-13T20:32:00.001-05:00

1 1b. Italian Sausage....(hot and spicy)

2 tbs. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 Medium Onion, Diced

4 Scallions Diced

2 Garlic Cloves Diced

2 Medium Carrots Diced

1/4 tsp. Fennel seed

2 Tbs. Chopped Italian parsley

1 can Mild Rotel

1 1/2 cans Cannellini Beans...other 1/2 of can (mashed)reserve

1 can of tomato puree

1 Squash diced

1/2 carton of fresh baby spinach

3 cups of chicken stock

1 tsp kosher salt

1 tsp cracked black pepper

**1 to 2 inch Parmesan cheese rind...secret ingredient

In a stock pot, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add sausage, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, scallions until browned. Add rotel, puree, beans, squash, carrots, fennel seed, 1 tbs. of Italian parsley and stir. Season to taste as you layer in the ingredients. Add the beans, Parmesan rind and chicken stock to the mixture. Bring to a slow boil and add the mashed beans for thickness. Cook on medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes and then add spinach and 1 tbs. of fresh Italian parsley. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes more. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ENJOY!!! A VERY yummy winter soup! "It warms the soul!"

Isaiah 41:10 "Fear not; for I am with you. Be not dismayed; for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea, I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness."

"Busy Blessings"

2009-10-10T17:47:00.000-05:00

Yes, there are even blessings in the busiest of times!!! WHEW....what a couple of weeks we have had! I'm so thankful for the strength and energy that the Lord has given Ralph and I to make it through!!! I am happy to report that we all were able to enjoy a restful weekend, so far, to try to catch up:) Here are a few pics of our latest "Busy Blessings"......

ABW at Homecoming '09 with a GREAT friend! She had a great time and REALLY enjoyed her mum that her Aunt D made for her!!!! I think she wore it everywhere she went that day.....Really!!!!

EMW at one of her many Volleyball games....She is loving it....we LOVE watching her!

EMW cheering at the middle school football games!!! She LOVES it:) I have to admit, I love watching her cheer also!!! She has been doing it for so long, but I never get tired of watching her. She's an amazing girl....lots of energy, lots of love and LOTS of fun!!!!!

Here she is with her cheer friends at the competition at the fairgrounds! They did an awesome job....Go Knights!

Fun at the fair! EMW and friends enjoyed all of the crazy rides, but they enjoyed the company even better!

Ralph and ABW at the fair.....she racked up!!!! She didn't want to ride the rides, but she sure spent some money on the games.....I think we only left one booth where she did not win a prize! Happy girl:)

As the week still winds down, I am enjoying the memories that were made with family and friends! God is so good to us! We are blessed each day! I just hope that I take time each day to remember that these "Busy" times will someday fade, so I need to enjoy them while they are here! After all, maybe they are keeping me young:) Happy Saturday everyone.....God Bless!

James 1:12

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-16T05:37:00.001-05:00

Genesis 9:16 "Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”

"Catching UP.....Some "snapshots" of our summer:)"

2009-09-06T13:21:00.010-05:00

This summer was so busy and went by so fast, that I unfortunately got behind on my postings. This post will hopefully catch me up to date:) With all of the trips with family and friends....unscheduled illnesses and hospital stays....birthday milestones....summer camps....moving into a new classroom.....finding and moving into a new deer lease, etc.~you can appreciate how I could have gotten behind! Right?

Earlier this summer, EMW and I were having fun with pictures.... BOY was it HOT!!!!

Good times with "Just the girls" at Barton Creek! My girls and I were lucky enough to spend some "Girl Time" with my mother, sisters and nieces!!! We had a fabulous time!!!

EMW turned 13.....she was SO surprised!!! My husband and I managed to pull off a Surprise Birthday Party for EMW!!! She was very shocked to see all of her friends at her birthday dinner that night:)

Great times at Camp.....sweet friends:) Toward the end of our summer, EMW was off to summer camp. She had a great time visiting with her old friends, meeting new friends and making memories that she will keep forever.....

EMW and her cabin friends:)

and again....

Ever Loyal Kiowa's....

and again....Round Up DAY!!!!

ABW having fun on one of our beach trips!!!

ABW and EMW with their cousins at the beach! Silly girls:) They always have a great time together....wish it could be more often!

It was a very busy summer....but so much fun! I am thankful and blessed to have all of the memories that this summer brought!

"Love is to the heart, what the summer is to the farmer's year. It brings to harvest all the loveliest flowers of the soul."
-- Billy Graham

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6

"Blessings from Day #2"

2009-08-25T19:44:00.003-05:00

Beginning a new school year is NEVER easy, especially with 6 year olds! That's right, school started yesterday and boy was it a DAY!!!! This year, I moved campus' so it has been quite an adjustment for me to say the least! I am thankful that I was able to continue to teach first grade. I cannot even begin to imagine the stress that I would be feeling right now if I had moved to a different grade level!!!! Yikes!

I am happy to report that all is well and I think that I will be fine this year!!! Great group of kiddos and things seem to be going well for ABW and EMW in their schools as well!

Blessings from Day #2....the ELMO!!! How have I taught for 7 years without it????? OH MY!!!! I LOVE IT:) Can you feel the excitement from this post? It makes life so much easier in the classroom!!! I was able to read several books, model writing, explain a math game, teach a math concept, etc. (more efficiently, of course) all because of ELMO!!!!! Life is good:)

I am thankful for the little things in life that mean so much!

Colossians 3:15-16

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

It's been a while.....

2009-08-11T22:42:00.003-05:00

Well, it has been a while!!! Lots of things have been keeping me from my creative, journalist side lately.....my mother-in-law FINALLY was released from the hospital and rehab facilities this past week....we drove my youngest daughter 7 hours away to summer camp this past weekend for a two week stay.....I took my oldest daughter school shopping yesterday....and I decided to finally work in my classroom today...school does begin soon, ya know? Anyways....lots going on!!!!

As suggested by a fellow blogger, I choose to use the word....ALAS...I am among the blogger's again!

ALAS...I am missing my daughter:(
ALAS....I am not near through with my classroom...
ALAS....I have mixed feelings about starting with a whole new school...miss my friends from the old school:(
ALAS....not looking forward to starting staff development tomorrow because that means that my summer is officially over!
ALAS....wish that I had that energy that I had a couple of years ago...I could go on forever!

Although, I am thankful for this day and the tomorrow that will come:)

1 Chronicles 29:13:
Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.

"Missing our Nana..."

2009-07-26T21:27:00.002-05:00

Long days,
Waiting and healing....we know that soon, healing and rehabilitation will be complete!!

I Samuel 25:6
"Say to him: 'Long life to you! Good health to you and your household! And good health to all that is yours!"

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-22T09:08:00.001-05:00

John 3:16

"Passing the time"

2009-07-09T17:22:00.002-05:00

While I am waiting on Nana's heart cath procedure to be finished, I am entertained by the innocence of my daughter. Although her Nana is in a surgery room at this very moment....and by the way, her Nana means everything to her...she can put aside her anxiousness for a quick card game with one of her other favorite people, her Paw Paw!!
It is amazing to see the power of a grandparent's love and the impact that it has on a child. I am SO grateful for my parents and my husband's parents. I am thankful that they have been and will continue to play a significant role in my children's lives!!!

"Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace and for the health of our parents!!"

Ephesians 6:1-3
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with promise: that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth."

"Land of the Free"...I'm so thankful!

2009-07-04T20:34:00.003-05:00

Today I find myself grateful for the WONDERFUL, FREE country that so many have fought and died for to provide to us!!! I am honored to be an American and I am so HOPEFUL that our country will continue to be the great, free country that our forefather's envisioned so long ago!! With prayer and renewed values, it can be!

Happy 4th of July!!

Pro 14:34 "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people. "

"Honey Blessings"

2009-06-30T23:37:00.003-05:00

Well, today...my husband and I celebrate our 19th wedding anniversary!!! As most of you know, anniversaries come around very quickly...especially the longer you are married!!! My husband and I were talking today about how amazing it is that it has been 19 years even though it feels much less. I guess that it is good that it doesn't seem longer...that would mean that marriage would be a a chore and a burden to us....not the every day blessings that it has been. Don't get me wrong....a marriage is work. Not every day seems like a blessing, but with prayer and guidance from God and a true love....it can be:)

I am thankful tonight for the song that led me to that music and video store the night that I met my husband!!!! ("When She Danced") I was on my way to church that night, but I had seen a movie that previous weekend that had a song that I fell in love with and needed to have. Needless to say, it was more than the song that I had fallen in love with.....it was the man that I met along the way. It is funny how God works in our lives without us knowing it!!! Not too many weeks before this occasion, I had given up on dating and was through with boys for a while. So I thought!!! I had prayed that the Lord guide my steps in school, in life and in love!! Boy, did He! I met the love of my life shortly after that prayer.

Through marriage, I have learned that love is unconditional... can get you through the toughest of times if you travel the path together with guidance from God.....needed in my life.....in my children's eyes when they look at me..... grows with each passing day to a stronger and more desirable love! I am blessed to have a husband that shows me love daily through his actions, his words and his heart! I love you Ralph!! Happy Anniversary!

Reflections.....

2009-06-28T18:04:00.000-05:00

EMW and I were out taking pictures today. It was plenty HOT, but she was in the mood so I jumped at the opportunity to preserve memories of my youngest daughter...as well as...well, I LOVE to play with my camera and the pictures that I take after I get back to my computer. (It is one of my favorite hobbies...)

Well....I played with my pictures for a while on the computer and invited my husband to come and view them. After all, he loves looking at all of the pictures that I take of our girls. We looked at quiet a few together. Going back and forth between the ones that we thought were the best and then we came to the one above. For family and friends that know us well, take a good look at this photo. What do you see? Do you see it???? After looking at the picture for a couple of seconds, Ralph and I both noticed something amazing at the same time. MY reflection is in the window!!!! Eeerie...wouldn't you say? (Funny thing is, we had JUST had that husband and wife discussion that sounded something like this...."She looks more like me than you!" and "Look at her nose! Who's nose is that? That's not yours!" Ha, ha....) Honestly, she is a perfect mixture of both of us, just like ABW is!!!

As we gazed at the reflection in amazement, we began to look deeper into the photo and couldn't help but notice how good God is to us. He gave us this special person and will provide great potential for her life. She has been a wonderful and supportive sister to ABW and a joy to her father and I. One day, when she is older, when she closes her eyes I hope that she can see a happy childhood filled with lots of love and joy, like ours was... I hope that she can look back at her parents with pride and honor the way we do.... I hope that she will remember who she represents and glorify God the way we try to...... I hope that she will remember how loved she is by all of us!

Proverbs 27:19
"As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man."

Ecclesiastes 5:20
"He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart."

"Quiet" Blessings

2009-06-28T06:58:00.001-05:00

It's 5:30 on a Sunday morning...just my cup of coffee, Fox News, a comfy couch and me!!! Ahhh, can you see my smile? Actually, this has to be my favorite time of the day!!! Don't get me wrong. I am NOT a morning person, but give me this time each day and I am a happy camper!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-24T14:31:00.000-05:00

Hebrews 11:1

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Love is....my husband!

2009-06-22T13:18:00.001-05:00

I find myself today being SO thankful for my sweet husband!! Sometimes we take things like family and friends for granted thinking that we are so far removed from anything bad happening to us~but in reality, it can and it does happen to so many everyday! A friend of mine lost her husband of 18 years this past weekend. He wasn't sick and seemed fairly healthy. It was such a shock to her and their sweet family. I want my husband to know how very much I love him and how lost I would be without him. He has truly been a blessing in my life!!

1 Corinthians 13

The "Unexpected"

2009-06-20T07:49:00.000-05:00

While we were on our annual "Girl's Trip" to the beach last week, we were surprised with a baseball glove that washed up in the waves where we were wading and taking pictures. My niece, AGH and my daughter, EMW were minding their own business trying to have fun in the water and the waves, even though their mother's were persistently requesting that they not get wet, and what do you know???? This baseball glove startled them and washed ashore right between them! They looked back into the ocean as if to say..."Where did this come from? Who might be out there looking for it?" They were expecting to find seashells...not a baseball glove, but nevertheless, they were thrilled! What a catch!!! No pun intended:)

Heb 10:22 "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. "

The Blessing of "Purple"

2009-06-19T06:25:00.001-05:00

For those of you that know ABW, you can appreciate how very impressed her dad and I were when she actually chose to spend some of her hard earned money on a manicure!! ABW is at times, apprehensive trying new things, like lotions, polishes, bubbles, etc. We have Autism Spectrum Disorder to thank for that. Each day presents us with new challenges and new milestones, and we are "thankful" for them. ABW loves the color purple, so I am sure that is what enticed her to let the nail salon girl touch her arms and hands, clip her nails, rub lotion on her, etc.

I am BLESSED to have her in my life for many reasons, bust mostly for the patience and for the strength that the Lord shows me daily!! "Thank you Jesus for your faithfulness in my life!"
Proverbs 28:20 "A faithful man shall abound with blessings; but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent."

"TGIF" Blessings

2009-06-12T22:13:00.000-05:00

Funny how some days just begin so quickly! Almost as if you never stopped from the day before. Could it have been that I finally decided to go to bed for some much needed rest too late last night? Or, could it be that several hours after I had fallen asleep, I was awakened by my youngest child who was being bothered by a nightmare that she had? Oh....I guess it could just be a mixture of those things along with the fact that I had an enormous amount to do today and not enough time to do it in!!!! Yes....more than likely, that is the source of my fast and furious day!!

You would think that since I am off for the summer...BTW....I am a first grade teacher who is THRILLED to be off for a couple of months with my family... anyway, you would think that I would be able to get things done in a timely manner. Well if you did think it, you would certainly be wrong! I am known as a slight procrastinator, hum, not happy about it...but, it's true! I had to pack up for a girl's weekend with my sister and her girls, make sure all chores wore done today...ABW and EMW loved that:), worked on collections and invoicing for my husband's business, checked on Nana, AKA, my mother-in-law, because she was not feeling well today......the list can go on forever, but you get the point. But, there was one thing that I wanted to do today that I am really thankful that I got the chance to do. Earlier this week, I thought it would be fun to surprise my daddy tomorrow as I make my way out of town by bringing him something special! A little baking was required for this plan to work!!! My daddy LOVES anything lemon...so, what better thing to bake him ~ Lemon Blossoms....Paula Dean's recipe! YUMMY....they are soooo good, I think that he will really appreciate all of the hard work that was put into baking them:)

As you can tell from this post, I am still busy with a couple of things left to do before I actually call it a day. If I can stay awake long enough, I would like to reward all of my hard work with a date in a quiet place and catch up with a great show that I DVR'd on MONDAY....can you believe it? Nothing like Monday shows on Friday. Luckily, none of my Facebook friends have spoiled it for me, what a "Blessing"! Seriously though, I feel that it is important for us to stop and reflect on our days and really think about all that we said, were able to do, what we heard and learned and really let the impact of life and people bless us in ways that we sometimes cannot even see! Everyday blessings happen to me daily....I hope they happen to you as well.

"Thank you Lord for all of the many blessings that you have brought into my life today alone! May I be a blessing to others when they see YOU through me."

Deu 28:2 "And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God."

"Thankful Thursday".....

2009-06-11T20:34:00.000-05:00

Well, today started VERY early for me. I couldn't seem to sleep, so I was up at 5:00 making coffee, folding the laundry that I had put off from the day before, catching up on current events...AKA...Fox News (my morning ritual), etc. I can't complain because I did seem to be pretty productive today~! I did manage to get a lot of things done and that makes me smile:) So....here is my attempt at explaining my "Thankful Blessings" for today....

T- In an effort to TRY to surprise my husband for Father's Day, several days ago I managed to coax my mother-in-law into an early hair appointment and blue clothing so that we could take "Just the Girls" pictures to surprise my sweet husband. Well, she was all to willing to help out with this feat, so early afternoon came and there I was, ready for the photo shoot to begin. (Nana, ABW, EMW, our dog Chewy and I). :)

H- HOT, boy was it hot today while we were trying to be beautiful for these photos! The weather report from three days ago did not tell the truth!! It rained today....was not supposed to, but it did! Therefore, it was humid, sticky and HOT!!!! (Thank you ladies for smiling through it all:)

U- I guess Understanding would have to be the word I am looking for. Normally, on days like today, I would have had both girls with a melt down, but not today. They seemed to understand that this was for a good cause and they cooperated as much as they could.

R- My husband, Ralph...that is what this torture that we are enduring is all about. Ha, no really....He deserves all that we went through and more! What a GREAT father he has been to my children. I am THANKFUL to have found a man that is as loving and as giving as my own father! He is also a great Believer in our Eternal Father and for that I am so THANKFUL!!

S- SAY "Cheese"....We took lots of photos to get that very special one for ....

D- DADDY!!! Unfortunately, there are so many to choose from! It will be very hard to decide which ONE to surprise him with. We all wanted to look our best and smile our best to show him how much we appreciate him for being such a wonderful son, husband and father. I hope that we can make the decision in time!

A- ABW was our first daughter and was willing to curl her hair, wear makeup and wear pearls for this occasion. For those of you that know ABW, you know this is truly a sacrifice on her behalf and shows her true love for her Daddy!:)

Y- ....all the reasons "Why" we love Ralph....Continue reading this blog, and you will understand too!

"THANKFUL THURSDAY ", it was!!

Matthew 5:16

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Family Blessings....

2009-06-10T22:55:00.000-05:00

Family goes without saying...I mean really, a family, a real loving, understanding and dependable family is one of the best blessings of all!! I have been one of the lucky ones! My father prayed for a loving and devoted family from the time he was a young boy until he married my mother. The "Power of Prayer" is an amazing thing.....He was blessed with a loving wife and four daughters, of which, I am the second. I learned many things from my parents that help me daily in raising my own children and in helping me to be the wife that I need to be to my husband. I am thankful for the "Blessings of Parents", both mine and my husband's, for molding the two of us into what we are today and what we will become in the future.

Proverbs 22:6
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."