JUST SIMPLE SOMETHINGS

Pepperoni String Cheese Roll Ups

2012-02-05T19:47:00.001-05:00

It's Superbowl Sunday and tonight I made a Apple - cranberry walnut salad with feta cheese and Raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Yummy!

To go with the salad I made these:

Pepperoni String Cheese Roll Ups

1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent roll dough
4 cheese sticks, halved
1 (3.5 ounce) package sliced pepperoni
optional - marinara or ranch sauce for dipping

Garlic Butter Glaze:
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasonings
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Take each triangle of crescent roll dough and place about 6 pepperoni on the bottom of the triangle. Place half of a cheese stick on top and roll up. Place seam side down on a cookie sheet and bake for 10-14 minutes or until golden brown.

While rolls are cooking, combine the melted butter, Italian seasonings, garlic powder and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.

When rolls are done remove from the oven and brush with the garlic butter glaze. Serve with marinara or ranch for dipping.

Here's my source for the roll-ups:
http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2012/01/pepperoni-cheese-stick-roll-ups.html
everything Christy makes is super good!!

On the lighter side....

2012-02-01T11:25:00.001-05:00

This just cracks me up...

Have a happy day!!!

Chicken Artichoke Casserole

2012-01-24T23:48:00.000-05:00

- Betty Crooker cookbook -

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1/4 (4 medium) cup sliced green onions

3 cups chopped cooked chicken

1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts in water, drained, chopped (not marinated type)

1 container (10 oz) refrigerated reduced-fat Alfredo pasta sauce

1 cup (4 oz) shredded Asiago cheese

1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise

1 1/2 cups Romano cheese croutons (from 5-oz bag), coarsely crushed

Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 11x7-inch (2-quart) baking dish with cooking spray. In 6-inch skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bell pepper and green onions; cook 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bell pepper and onions start to soften. In large bowl, mix bell pepper mixture and all remaining ingredients except croutons. Spoon into baking dish. Top with croutons.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until hot and bubbly. If desired, sprinkle with additional sliced green onions.

I made some changes…

I didn’t have green onions on hand so I used half of a sweet onion.

Instead of croutons, I topped it off with panco bread crumbs.

This one is a keeper....We both loved it!

Words for life's journey

2012-01-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

Just think about it....

2012-01-18T11:02:00.001-05:00

Opportunity

2012-01-03T11:37:00.001-05:00

A fresh start...a chance to do things differently.

My job is very demanding with no time to spare, yet it's also rewarding. Yesterday a resident that has a problem with her throat called me to her room. She wanted to call an old friend and wish her a happy birthday but she was afraid the friend wouldn't be able to understand her over the phone. I told her I could make the call and relay the message. She responded "You would do that for me?"
I have decided in 2012 to work on serving even in the simple things.
Make a commitment this year with me to do more for others and I think at the end of the day you will feel blessed!

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called “Opportunity” and its first chapter is New Year's Day.”

Edith Lovejoy Pierce -

English poet

Words for life's journey

2011-12-31T16:12:00.000-05:00

"As we grow older in life, years somehow seem to shorten and New Year's Day approaches with an ever increasing tempo.

The more mature we get, the more we realize that time is only relative; how we live means more than how long we live. We do not live by years, but by days.

In His wisdom God does not show us all that lies ahead. So we enter a new year to live it day by day. What is past is past. Today we start anew, and what we do today will make our life for tomorrow.

Chin up, shoulders straight, eyes agleam, let us salute the New Year, and each day let us follow more faithfully, more courageously, more daringly the lead of our great Captain who bids us follow Him."

William Thomson Hanzsche

Happy New Year!

Merry CHRISTmas...

2011-12-25T08:46:00.000-05:00

Words of wisdom from the grinch.........

2011-12-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

Theodor Seuss Geisel (1904-1991);

Writer, Cartoonist, Animator

Gifts that do not cost a cent!

2011-12-03T20:47:00.047-05:00

1) THE GIFT OF LISTENING...
But you must REALLY listen.
No interrupting, no daydreaming,
no planning your response.
Just listening.

2) THE GIFT OF AFFECTION...
Be generous with appropriate hugs,
kisses, pats on the back and handholds.
Let these small actions demonstrate the
love you have for family and friends.

3) THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE...
It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note.
A brief, handwritten note may be remembered
for a lifetime, and may even change a life.

4) THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT...
A simple and sincere,
"You look great in red," "You did a super job"
or "That was a wonderful meal"
can make someone's day.

5) THE GIFT OF A FAVOR...
Every day, go out of your way
to do something kind.

6) THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE...
There are times when we want nothing better,
than to be left alone.
Be sensitive to those times and give the gift
of solitude to others.

7) THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION...
The easiest way to feel good is
to extend a kind word to someone,
really it's not that hard to say,
Hello or Thank You.

And don’t forget to smile!

Words for life's journey....

2011-11-27T13:24:00.000-05:00

Have a blessed Sunday!!

On the lighter side...

2011-11-19T08:57:00.003-05:00

It was autumn, and the Indians on a remote reservation asked their new Chief if the winter was going to be cold or mild. Since he was an Indian Chief in a modern society he had never been taught the old secrets, so when he looked at the sky he couldn't tell what the weather was going to be.
Nevertheless, to be on the safe side, he replied to his tribe that the winter was indeed going to be cold and that the members of the village should collect wood to be prepared.
But also being a practical leader, after several days he got an idea. He went to the phone booth, called the National Weather Service and asked, "Is the coming winter going to be cold?"
"It looks like this winter is going to be quite cold indeed," the Meteorologist at the weather service responded. So the Chief went back to his people and told them to collect even more wood in order to be prepared.
One week later he called the National Weather Service again. "Is it going to be a very cold winter?"
"Yes," the man at National Weather Service again replied, "it's going to be a very cold winter."
The Chief again went back to his people and ordered them to collect every scrap of wood they could find. Two weeks later he called the National Weather Service again. "Are you absolutely sure that the winter is going to be very cold?"
"Absolutely," the man replied. "It's going to be one of the coldest winters ever."
"How can you be so sure?" the Chief asked.
The weatherman replied, "The Indians are collecting wood like crazy."

Words for life's journey...

2011-11-13T07:55:00.000-05:00

YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW

There are two days in every week about which we should not worry, two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension.

One of these days is yesterday, with its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. All the money in the world cannot bring back yesterday. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control. We cannot undo a single act we performed. We cannot erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone.

The other day we should not worry about is tomorrow with its possible adversities, its burdens, its large promise, or poor performance. Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control.
Tomorrow’s sun will rise, whether it is in splendor or behind a mask of clouds…but it will rise. Until it does, we have no stake in tomorrow, for it is yet unborn.

That leaves only one day….TODAY.

Any person can fight the battles of just one day. It is only when you and I add the burdens of these two awful eternities – yesterday and tomorrow – that we break down.
It is not the experience of today that drives people mad – it is the remorse or bitterness of something that happened yesterday or the dread of what tomorrow may bring.

Let us therefore, LIVE BUT ONE DAY AT A TIME.

Fall....

2011-11-11T12:02:00.029-05:00

Indian corn and raffia
homemade soup
plump orange pumpkins
wood-burning fireplaces

bonfires and hayrides
piles of raked leaves
homemade crusty bread
tattered scarecrows

baskets of apples
bountiful harvest
geese heading south
crisp fall days

warm spiced cider
squirrels gathering acorns
canning jars of vegetables
warm bulky sweaters

And…vibrant autumn colors !!

Words for life's journey

2011-11-05T21:07:00.000-04:00

A random act of kindness is:
“A selfless act performed by a person or persons wishing to either assist or cheer up an individual… There will generally be no reason other than to make people smile, or be happier.”

How different our world would be if we were all just a bit more compassionate and kind.
So what is it that prevents us? Kindness is free, it never goes bad, it has no sell-by date, we can never get enough of it, and we can never give enough of it.
However, kindness is often overlooked or undervalued. Which is a pity as it takes only a very small amount of it to turn someone’s day from bad to wonderful.

Have a blessed Sunday!

Cheeseburger dip

2011-11-03T15:05:00.009-04:00

Cheeseburger Dip

Warm and Cheesy With Onion and Green Chiles

　
Ingredients:

1/2 lb. lean ground beef
1 small finely chopped onion
1 can (16 ounce) refried beans - regular or fat free
1 jar green chiles, chopped
1 cup chili sauce (from store)
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded
1 - 8 oz. container of sour cream
Thinly sliced black olives, optional

Preparation:Saute the ground beef and onion in a skillet.
Drain off the fat and place the beef and onion mixture in a crockpot.
Then stir in the refried beans, chili sauce, green chiles and shredded cheese.
Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Just before serving, stir in the sour cream and black olives (if using).

Serve warm with your favorite chips, crackers or vegetables!

Autumn.....

2011-10-30T20:40:00.000-04:00

in my neck of the woods....

I'll be joining in over at "Little Red House" for Mosaic Monday. Come on over......

Quaint...

2011-10-24T10:24:00.008-04:00

adjective, -er, -est.

1.having an old-fashioned attractiveness or charm; oddly picturesque: a quaint old house.

2. strange, peculiar, or unusual in an interesting, pleasing, or amusing way: a quaint sense of humor.

Photos taken at Roscoe Village, Coshocton, Ohio

I'll be joining in over at "Little Red House" for Mosaic Monday. Come on over......

Words for life's journey....

2011-10-16T06:25:00.000-04:00

I am free to be, to do, to accept, to reject. I am free to be the wise, loving, kind, and patient person I want to be.

I’m free to do that which I consider wise – that which will in no way harm or hinder another person. I’m free to do that which will lead me into paths of peace and satisfaction.

I’m free to decide for or against, to say no or to say yes. I’m free to live in a productive way and to contribute what I have to give to life.

Author Unknown

Have a blessed Sunday!

Fall leaf idea.........

2011-10-08T18:19:00.000-04:00

Fall leaf roses made from ...you got it, fall leaves! Aren't they beautiful?
Click on over to design sponge for the diy project. And then check out the beautiful wreath made from the same idea here at Sugarbee crafts.

Neat huh?

On the lighter side.....

2011-10-05T17:12:00.001-04:00

Funny Answering Machine/Voicemail Greetings
Hi. This is John: If you are the phone company, I already sent the money. If you are my parents, please send money. If you are my financial aid institution, you didn't lend me enough money. If you are my friends, you owe me money. If you are a female, don't worry, I have plenty of money. Hi. Now you say something.
----------
Please leave a message. However, you have the right to remain silent. Everything you say will be recorded and will be used by us.
----------
Hi. I'm probably home, I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.
----------
Hi! John's answering machine is broken. This is his refrigerator. Please speak very slowly, and I'll stick your message to myself with one of these magnets.
----------
Hello, you are talking to a machine. I am capable of receiving messages. My owners do not need siding, windows or a hot tub, and their carpets are clean. They give to charity through their office and do not need their picture taken. If you're still with me, leave your name and number and they will get back to you.

kinda "Wordless Wednesday"

2011-09-27T23:15:00.000-04:00

Join in over at Wordless Wednesday...just click here.

Think about it...

2011-09-23T16:59:00.001-04:00

September means....

2011-09-03T19:05:00.005-04:00

Hello and goodbye....

Hello to a new school year and the approaching fall season with it's burst of color...it will be a welcome site since the hot summer we had kinda put a damper on the flowers this year. I don't know about where you live, but the heat here caused the blooming to shut down... so there wasn't much of a show.

Goodbye to air conditioners constantly running to find relief and hello to sleeping with the windows open...

Goodbye to "vegetable dinners" that consist of corn on the cob, parsley potatoes, fresh green beans with garlic and olive oil and thick sliced tomatoes and cottage cheese.

My sister gave me these corn holders that you put into the corn BEFORE boiling!

Goodbye to tomato sandwiches...have you tried them?

Two slices of toast with thick slices of tomato, fresh from the garden, and a little mayo, salt, pepper...yummy!
A friend like a drizzle of vinegar and oil dressing instead of the mayo.
Haven't tried that yet. Good eatin'

~ Words for life's journey ~

2011-08-27T19:26:00.000-04:00

My Hand in God's Hand

Each morning when I wake, I say,
"I place my hand in God's today!"
I know He'll walk close by my side
my every wandering step to guide.

He leads me with such tender care
when paths are dark and I despair,
no need for me to understand
if I but hold fast to His Hand.

My hand in His! No surer way
to walk in safety through each day.
By His great bounty I am fed!
Warmed by His love, and comforted.

When at day's end I seek my rest
and realize how much I am blessed,
My thanks pour out to Him, and then
I place my hand in God's again.

Florence Scripps Kellogg

~ Words for life's journey ~

2011-08-20T18:06:00.000-04:00

Did you read about the little boy who returned home after his first Sunday school class?

His mother asked, "Who was your teacher?'

and the little boy answered,

"I don't remember her name, but she must have been Jesus' grandma because she didn't talk

about anyone else."

Have a blessed Sunday!

Smile.....

2011-08-16T07:50:00.000-04:00

Photo credit to kaneda99

If you can’t smile, grin.

If you can’t grin,

keep out of the way till you can.

- Winston Churchill

Words for Life's Journey...

2011-08-13T21:51:00.000-04:00

Your days are your life in miniature.

As you live your hours,

so you create your years.

As you live your days,

so you craft your life.

What you do today is actually creating your future.

The words you speak, the thoughts you think, the food you eat and the actions you take are defining your destiny...shaping who you are, what you’re becoming and what your life will stand for.

Small choices lead to giant consequences over time. There's no such thing as an unimportant day.

On the lighter side....

2011-08-09T23:43:00.000-04:00

While at last weeks husband's marriage seminar, Giuseppe was asked by Father Joe to take a few minutes and share some insight into how he had managed to stay married to the same woman for 50 years.
Giuseppe replied to the assembled husbands, "Wella, I'va tried to treat her nicea, spenda da money on her, but besta of all is, I tooka her to Italy for the 25th anniversary!"

The priest responded, "Giuseppe, you are an amazing inspiration to all the husbands here! Please tell us what you are planning for your wife for your 50th anniversary?" Giuseppe proudly replied, "I gonna go pick her up."
Enjoy the day!

Mosaic Monday

2011-08-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

Two in a bush.....

I know the quote about " A bird in the hand is worth two in a bush" which means it's better to have a small real advantage than the possibility of a greater one. but how about the center photo from my garden with two butterflies...that's just simply beautiful!

**The term bird in hand must have been known in the USA by 1734, as that is the date when a small town in Pennsylvania was founded with that name.

I'll be joining in over at "Little Red House" for Mosaic Monday. Come on over......

Words for Life's Journey

2011-07-31T04:22:00.002-04:00

The six most important words:

I admit I made a mistake.

The five most important words:

You did a good job!

The four most important words:

What is YOUR opinion?

The three most important words:

If you please.

The two most important words:

Thank You.

The one most important word:

We.

The least important word:

~ Unknown

Carrot Cupcakes

2011-07-27T00:00:00.002-04:00

I saw this recipe and it's easy! I'm going to try the nuts, raisins and crushed pineapple...

Carrot Cupcakes

1 box Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® carrot cake mix
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup of water
3 eggs
Add up to three ingredients from the list below:
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained

Frosting :1 container (1 lb) Betty Crocker® Rich & Creamy cream cheese frosting

Directions:
Heat oven to 350°F.
In large bowl, beat cake mix, oil, water and eggs on low speed 30 seconds. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes.
Stir in up to three of the added ingredients and mix gently. Pour into baking cups in cupcake pan, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake 17-22 minutes. Cool completely.
Pipe or spread frosting over cupcakes. Decorate as desired.

Makes 24 cupcakes

Tips:
You can make different flavors by dividing the cake batter in half or quarters before you add in your extra ingredients. Just cut the measurements for the added ingredients accordingly.

*** An ice-cream scoop is a good tool to use for filling the cupcake tins with batter.

On the lighter side........

2011-07-21T11:13:00.000-04:00

An elderly couple had dinner at another couple's house and after eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen. The two gentlemen were talking, and one said, "Last night we went out to a new restaurant and it was really great. I would recommend it very highly."

The other man said, "What is the name of the restaurant?"

The first man thought and thought and finally said, "What is the name of that flower you give to someone you love? You know, the one that is red and has thorns."

"Do you mean a rose?"

"Yes," the man said. He turned toward the kitchen and yelled, "Rose, what's the name of that restaurant we went to last night?"

Enjoy the day!

~ Words for Life's Journey ~

2011-07-17T00:22:00.029-04:00

UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
We may tend to put a relationship on a pedestal expecting more than it can deliver.
Often, we believe that others ought to treat us the way we want them to respond. When their behavior does not change in response to our needs, we become disappointed, feel abandoned, and internalize our feelings as being unlovable.

What we didn't receive from our parents in terms of affection, support, and direction, we project onto others. We may expect a great deal from others because we are dependent. When spouses or friends fail to meet our expectations, we feel betrayed, frustrated, and resentful.

Having realistic expectations for others involves realizing that all of us are less than perfect. Instead of looking to others to meet our needs, we must take responsibility for our own life and make necessary changes that are in our best interest. It is important to value and accept our partners and friends for who they are. It is in our best interest not to spend our energy trying to change them to fit an image of what we believe we need and what they can provide for us.

We can’t put our trust in people. We need to put the matter in God’s hands.

Flicks.......

2011-07-14T23:50:00.002-04:00

GET LOW
Robert Duvall, Bill Murray and Sissy Spacek in a true story of a mysterious Tennessee hermit who threw his own funeral party in 1938 while he was still alive.

Duvall, who's goin' on 80, does a great job as always.

THAT EVENING SUNAbner Meecham, an aging Tennessee farmer discarded to a nursing facility by his lawyer son, flees the old folks' home and catches a ride back to his country farm to live out his days in peace. Holbrook giving one of his best performances.

Two movies I feel were worth watching!

Don't you just luv a Picnik ?

2011-07-11T00:03:00.000-04:00

That's Picnik.com
It's an awesome online photo editing website that you can use for free. They have fast and easy editing tools, text, stickers, frames...you name it, they got it!

I use it to make most of my headers and colleges. You can upgrade for as little as $2.08 a month but the free account offers more than enough for the average photographer... like me!
Check it out.
See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

Words for Life's Journey

2011-07-10T11:13:00.000-04:00

Respond with Purpose

What upsets you is not what happens. What upsets you is your response to what happens. Just as easily as you respond in a negative way, you can easily and naturally respond in a positive, empowering, uplifting way.

The biggest problems are often caused by what you choose to do about the smallest problems. Most of those big, painful problems are so unnecessary. Keep reminding yourself that you are in control of you. You are in control and you can decide exactly how you wish to feel at any point.

Imagine the power of remaining
calm, focused and resourceful when some totally unexpected, disappointing development interrupts your day.

Respond on purpose, with purpose. Feel the power and the joy as every moment gives you a way to move forward.

Ralph Marston

Have a blessed Sunday!

On the lighter side...

2011-07-06T13:01:00.001-04:00

A man came home from work one day and found total mayhem. The three children were outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud. Empty food boxes and wrappers were strewn across the yard. When he went inside, the mess was even worse. A lamp had been knocked over and the throw rug was wadded against the wall.
In the front room, the tv was loudly blaring on a cartoon channel and the family room was strewn with toys and clothing. In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, cereal had been spilled on the counter, dog food was spilled on the floor, a broken glass lay under the table and a small pile of sand was spread by the back door.

He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over more piles of clothes and toys to look for his wife. He was becoming worried that she may be ill or that something serious had happened. He found her in the bedroom, still curled in the bed in her pajamas, reading a book. She looked up at him and smiled and asked how his day went. He looked at her bewildered and asked "What happened here today?" She smiled and answered "You know how every day when you come home from work, you ask me what I do all day?" "Yes" he said, baffled. "Well," she said "today I didn't do it."

Let Freedom Ring....

2011-07-04T00:40:00.004-04:00

This Independence Day, remember...The American flag does not fly because the wind moves past it. The American flag flies from the last breath of each military member who has died protecting it. American soldiers don't fight because they hate what's in front of them...they fight because they love what's behind them."
Author Unknown

Click the link below:
If this doesn't stir you, nothing will.......

http://youtu.be/N7Wt4XlXUrc

Words for Life's Journey

2011-07-02T23:46:00.000-04:00

YOU WILL NEVER BE SORRY...

...for thinking before acting.

...for hearing before judging.

...for forgiving your enemies.

...for being candid and frank in love.

...for helping a fallen brother.

...for being honest in business.

...for thinking before speaking.

...for standing by your principles.

...for closing your ears to gossip.

...for bridling a slanderous tongue.

...for harboring pure thoughts.

...for sympathizing with the afflicted.

...for being courteous and kind to all.

...for loving Jesus with all your heart.

♥ Be blessed ♥

How do you spell Yummy?

2011-06-29T00:45:00.000-04:00

Recently we had dinner at Apple*bee's and enjoyed the Spinach and artichoke Dip. It's soooo good, I had to find the recipe to enjoy at home.

Here it is:

1 (10 ounce) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
1 cup shredded parmesan-romano cheese mix
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 ounces prepared alfredo sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic
4 ounces softened cream cheese
pepper (optional)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine ingredients thoroughly in a bowl and spread mixture into a small baking dish (I used an 8" X 8" dish). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheeses are bubbling and melted.
Serve with chips or bread and enjoy!

I'm joining "What's on the menu Wednesday" over at Dining with debbie...

Colorful...

2011-06-27T00:10:00.000-04:00

These are birdhouses that I painted years ago that hang on the flowerbed fence. Each year they fade from the sun and I just touch them up again. It adds a touch of whimsy to the all green background!

I'll be joining in over at "Little Red House" for Mosaic Monday. Come on over......

Words for Life's Journey

2011-06-25T23:30:00.000-04:00

Today I open my heart and allow God to work in my life. I choose to keep pressing forward, and I will be positive toward myself. I will develop better relationships and form better habits. I will develop my inner life and my relationship with God. I will embrace the place where I am, and I choose to stay passionate about life.
Author Unknown

Tee shirt Sayings...

2011-06-24T11:55:00.000-04:00

Hope you have a fun weekend!!!

To do list.....

2011-06-22T12:21:00.000-04:00

~ Words for Life's Journey ~

2011-06-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

Attitude

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our attitudes.”
Charles R. Swindoll

Have a blessed Sunday!

Struttin' her stuff.......

2011-06-13T12:12:00.001-04:00

Last summer, I created a garden lady to try to deter the deer that pass through our yard. We have a county park {over 2,000 acres of wooded area} five minutes from our house and yet the deer find it necessary to use my flowerbed as a buffet.

Two days later I found this...

The deer decided to show me who's boss and took a bite out of her hat!

Anyway.....

This year's fashion ensemble was created from a shabby chic flat sheet from the salvation army store for $1.00. I've had the apron for about twenty years and never used it and probably never
would.

So the whole outfit was $1.00 and I think she looks pretty stylish!!

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

~ Words for Life's Journey ~

2011-06-12T17:03:00.003-04:00

Yesterday…

Jack took me to breakfast. I thanked him.

Later we did lawn work for about three hours…
trimming trees,
pruning bushes,
weeding,
grass cutting,
Planting,
and doing some major landscape de-cluttering.

I thanked Jack for helping with the yard.

Then we came inside and ate…. Jack thanked me for making lunch.

Where is this conversation going?

Some of you may be saying “That’s just my spouse, I shouldn’t have to say thank you.”

No, it’s being polite and thankful for what some may take for granted.

And that’s the way it goes at our house.

Relax..... and remember it was God who originated the seventh day of rest!

Summer Seashell Salad

2011-06-08T00:10:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:

1 -1 lb box of medium sea shell macaroni
2 cucumbers, diced
1 medium chopped green bell pepper
1 medium chopped onion
1 (4 ounce) jar pimientos

Dressing:
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup cooking oil
3/4 cup cider vinegar
1 can tomato soup or tomato sauce
Salt and pepper
Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain.
Add the remaining ingredients: cucumbers, pimentos, green pepper and onion.
Mix ingredients for the sauce and reserve 1 cup sauce mix.
Pour remaining sauce over shells.
Refrigerate overnight.
Pour reserved sauce over shells just before serving.

This is the perfect picnic dish - no mayo!! Very easy to prepare and a nice change from the usual covered dish take along. I've been making this for over 20 years.

I'm linking to:
"What's on the menu Wednesday"...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!

`PEONIES

2011-06-06T00:45:00.000-04:00

The peony bush that I transplanted from mom's yard has four blooms this year. I love using them in a bouquet !!
See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

~ Words for Life's Journey ~

2011-06-05T00:02:00.000-04:00

"One dollar spent on a good lunch lasts for five hours. One dollar spent for a necktie lasts five weeks. One dollar spent on a car lasts for five years. One dollar spent in the Service of God - lasts for eternity." - Roger Babson

“ Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose ... not the one you began with perhaps, but one you'll be glad to remember. ”
Have a blessed Sunday!

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2011-05-23T00:02:00.001-04:00

These strawberries were huge!!
Only three would fit in Jack's hand...great for Strawberry shortcake☺♥

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

~ Words for Life's Journey ~

2011-05-22T00:04:00.002-04:00

Have a blessed Sunday!

Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

2011-05-11T11:53:00.002-04:00

This is one of my all- time favorite recipes! I found it a few years back when I was on the Southbeach diet.....And it’s soooo easy!

~ Vinegar and Garlic Chops ~

Directions:
Salt and pepper center cut or lean loin pork chops. Spread a little chopped garlic over each chop. Sprinkle with paprika if desired for color.

Heat a frying pan until it is very hot, using a small amount of olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Sear chops over high heat until browned on each side.

Pour ½ cup apple cider vinegar and about ¾ cup of water over chops. Cover and reduce heat to low -- simmer for about 45 minutes or until tender.

****The vinegar will make the chops so tender, you can cut them with a fork.

~ Roasted Yams with Thyme ~
2 yams
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Sprinkling of thyme
Salt and ground pepper

Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Halve yams and place cut side up in a shallow baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle or brush with oil. And sprinkle with thyme. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake until golden brown and tender, 35 to 45 minutes.

I'm linking to:
"What's on the menu Wednesday"...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!

May......

2011-05-09T12:23:00.005-04:00

"Never yet was a springtime, when the buds forgot to bloom."

- Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

On the lighter side........

2011-05-08T11:47:00.000-04:00

Bring on the blooms.....

2011-05-01T14:42:00.009-04:00

With all the rain we've been having, it's hard to find a Saturday to clean the
flowerbeds out. Being scheduled to work every other weekend adds to the problem. I could see plants sprouting up everywhere and plenty of blooms through the dead leaves that laid there all winter. They make a great covering to protect the plants from the cold, but extra work in the spring...Yuck.

The primroses are lovin' all the rain!

I was determined to get out there yesterday even if it rained. It turned out to be sunny and about 60*.

Jack and I worked together and accomplished a lot:

grass cut
Flowerbeds raked and weeded
wood edging stained
bird feeder cleaned out
Hillside cleared of wild bamboo... ggrrr...I hate bamboo.

Then a bubble bath...dinner and a movie at home... A fulfilling day!

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

Defination of Vintage:

2011-04-25T00:14:00.000-04:00

representing the high quality of a past time; classic:

imitating, or being a style or fashion of the past; retro:
{vintage clothing.}

The Museums of

Oglebay Institute

~Oglebay Resort~

Wheeling, WV

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

THIS IS OUR GOD

2011-04-23T23:59:00.004-04:00

Freely you gave it all for us

Surrendered your life

upon that cross

Great is your love

Poured out for all...

This is our God.

Lifted on high from death to life

Forever our God is glorified

Sovereign king

Rescued the world...

This is our God.

LYRICS BY HILLSONG

"Have a blessed Easter"

CHICKEN FLORENTINE * ARTICHOKE BAKE

2011-04-20T00:15:00.000-04:00

I found this recipe in Better Homes & Gardens and it's definately a keeper! With all the ingredients that we like... I know I'll be making it often.

Ingredients:
8 oz. dried bow tie pasta
1 small onion, chopped
1 Tbsp. butter
2 eggs
1-1/4 cups milk
1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
1/4 to 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper (optional)
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (8 oz.)
1 14-oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
1 10-oz. pkg. frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1/2 cup oil-packed dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
1/2 tsp. paprika
1 Tbsp. butter, melted
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. In medium skillet cook onion in 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat about 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; set aside.

2. In bowl whisk together eggs, milk, seasoning, 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir in chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, artichokes, spinach, tomatoes, half of the Parmesan, cooked pasta, and onion. Transfer to a 13x9x2-inch baking dish or 3-quart rectangular casserole.

3. Bake, covered, 20 minutes. In small bowl combine remaining Parmesan, bread crumbs, paprika, and melted butter. Sprinkle mixture over pasta. Bake, uncovered, 10 minutes more or until golden. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

I'm linking to:
"What's on the menu Wednesday"
...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!
Suzy

Fast and easy Chili

2011-04-13T23:52:00.000-04:00

We're big chili eaters here at our house!
I usually make a big soup pot about every couple weeks in the winter and we never seem to tire of it. A few years ago, I came across the recipe for Wen*dy's fast- food chili...it's fast and easy!

Wendy's fast food Chili
2 pounds lean ground beef
29 ounces tomato sauce
29 ounces kidney beans
29 ounces pinto beans
1 cup diced onion
1/2 cup green chiles (I use a small can of diced chiles)
1/4 cup celery, diced
2 15 oz. cans of diced tomatoes with juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups water

Brown beef and drain thoroughly.
Combine remaining ingredients and simmer 2-3 hours.

I'm linking to:
"What's on the menu Wednesday"
...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!

~ OVEN BARBECUED SPARE RIBS ~

2011-04-06T11:26:00.000-04:00

3-4 lbs. spare ribs
1-2 sliced onions
2 tbsp. vinegar
2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp. salt
3/4 c. catsup and 3/4 c. water
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. red pepper
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. chili powder

Place ribs in large baking dish. Combine all other ingredients and spread over ribs. Cover and bake in 350 degree oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Baste and turn occasionally. Uncover for last 15-30 minutes.
**This dish was very tasty without a heavy BBQ sauce. It's a keeper!

Complimentary Vegetable:
GREEN BEANS AND CABBAGE:
4 slices bacon
1 pkg. frozen French style green beans
1/4 head cabbage, sliced
1 tbsp. minced onion
Salt to taste

In large fry pan, crisp bacon. Remove and drain. To drippings, add green beans, cabbage, minced onion and salt. Cook on medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes. Crumble bacon over mix and serve.

I'm linking to:
"What's on the menu Wednesday"
...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!

Cupcake goodness....

2011-04-04T09:11:00.003-04:00

Dozen Bake Shop has been recognized as Pittsburgh's best bakery. Check out some of these awesome creations…..

Top row:

Maple Bacon - Real bacon and maple buttercream on a cake spiked with a hint of espresso.

East End Chocolate Stout - Dark chocolate stout cake topped with irish cream buttercream and chocolate ganache.

Peppermint Twist - Chocolate devils food cake topped with peppermint buttercream.

2nd row:

Pumpkin Maple - Real maple buttercream on delicious pumpkin cupcake.

Almond Dream -Almond buttercream on a vanilla cake, rolled in sliced almonds and dusted with confectioners sugar.

Caramel Spice - Caramel buttercream atop spice cake, topped with gooey caramel.

Row three:

Rocky Road -Pecans, marshmallows and chocolate ganache topping vanilla buttercream on chocolate devils food cake.

Red Velvet - red velvet cake has a hint of chocolate, and is topped with magagascar vanilla bean butter cream.

Black & Gold - Every Sunday during Steelers season, you can get a Black & Gold cupcake - all dressed up for game day.

And I love these elegant cupcake papers from the internet:

Soooo pretty!

I'm linking up to Mosaic Monday over at

"Little Red House ".

2011-04-03T11:27:00.000-04:00

Written by Jessica Sporn

Setting up housekeeping......

2011-03-28T11:24:00.001-04:00

A pair of wrens are moving into the backyard birdhouse!...a sure sign of Spring.

See more inspiring snapshots this Mosaic Monday over at "Little Red House".

A prayer*** and a hot water bottle

2011-03-25T09:30:00.013-04:00

Today, I received this wonderful story about prayer and the faithfulness of our caring heavenly Father. We have a God who delights in impossibilities...

Read it and be blessed!

http://www.truthorfiction.com/rumors/h/hotwaterbottle.htm

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." Isaiah 65:24

Mosaic Monday: Pretty

2011-03-21T10:24:00.000-04:00

~ My little Pretties ~

defination:
pretty (ˈprɪtɪ)
— adj , -tier , -tiest

1. pleasing or appealing in a delicate or graceful way.

2. dainty, neat, or charming.

Join us over at "Little Red House" for more entries this Mosaic Monday!

Ham and Cabbage

2011-03-16T12:26:00.002-04:00

~A pinch of this ~ a dash of that ~

Put the ham bone into a large soup pot. Fill the pot about half full with water. Heat the water to a rolling boil so that any ham left on the bone will cook off. Add half of a medium onion... chopped.

Boil for 45 minutes to an hour. Remove the bone and pull off any remaining ham with a fork. Discard the bone and put remaining ham back into the pot.

Add about 6 - quartered potatoes. I used red ones because that's what I had on hand. Cook until potatoes are tender... then add half a head of cabbage... chopped in large pieces... and a bag of frozen green beans.

Hubby likes a thicker broth so I sprinkle in some instant mashed potatoes. (great as a thickener for soups and stews).

Make sure you make enough for leftovers because it's always better the second day after the flavors mingle!...Enjoy!

{original post 01 / 09 / 2008}

Happy St. Patty's Day!

I'm linking to:

"What's on the menu Wednesday"

...stop on over for more mouth-watering recipes!

Cheesy Potato and Corn Chowder

2011-03-09T00:33:00.001-05:00

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons margarine

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup chopped onion

2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth

3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn

1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies

1 (2.5 ounce) package country style gravy mix

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded Mexican-style processed cheese food.{I just used shredded mexican cheese I had on hand}

Directions:
In large saucepan, melt margarine over medium high heat. Add celery and onion; cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add chicken broth; bring to a boil. Add potatoes; cook over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes or until potatoes are soft, stirring occasionally.

Stir in corn and chilies; return to boiling. Dissolve gravy mix in milk; stir into boiling mixture. Add cheese; cook and stir over low heat until cheese is melted.

This was yummy....I added about 6 slices of crumbled bacon.

Crockpot version:
Cook the veggies in some a the bacon drippings then put carrots, onions, celery and chilies in crockpot with chicken broth. Add potatoes, corn, and cooked bacon and cook on low about 6 hrs till potatoes tender. Then add the milk and gravy mix.. Cook about 1/2 hour... add the cheese and let it melt into the soup .

I'm sharing at :

Dining with Debbie for

*What's on the menu Wednesday *...

stop on over and see what's cookin'.

Oh Spring...where art thou??

2011-03-06T23:06:00.004-05:00

Our local super market had these

pretty littl' babies on sale for

$1.50 each!

I just couldn't resist buying a couple to bring a little color into my kitchen on a snowy March day. Primrose are the first perennials that bloom in my garden each spring and I just can't wait!

Spring shows what God can do with a drab and dirty world.

~Virgil A. Kraft ~

Join in over at "Little Red House" for Mosaic Monday inspiration......

~ On the lighter side...

2011-03-06T13:28:00.000-05:00

On one particular Sunday, the pastor was emphasizing the importance of everyone giving their tithes and offerings. He went on to challenge the people to give enthusiastically because II Corinthians 9:7 says in it that "God loves a cheerful giver."

As the plate was passed, a little boy in the second pew, quickly slipped off his neck tie and placed it into the offering plate. His mother, absolutely mortified, asked him what in the world he thought he was doing. The boy replied, "The pastor said put your ties in the offering plate and do it joyfully. I love that man!"

~ Crock Pot Chicken Piccata ~

2011-03-02T11:32:00.001-05:00

4 skinless boneless chicken breast

olive oil

flour

ground pepper

garlic powder

zest of one lemon

2 tbs. butter

1/4 c. lemon juice

1/2 c. white wine

1/2 c. chicken stock

2 cloves chopped garlic

1/4 heaping c. capers

1 c. fresh mushrooms (or artichoke hearts) your choice!
1/2 c. fresh diced cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes)

Directions:
1. Combine flour, ground pepper, garlic powder and zest of one lemon in shallow dish.

2. Pound out chicken about 1/4 inch thick dredge in flour mixture and brown both sides of chicken in olive oil.

3. Add chicken to crock pot, adding the remaining ingredients on top of it.

Cook on high 4-6 hours or low at 6-8 hours, or until chicken is tender depends on your crock pot.

Serve over your favorite pasta or rice.

I'm joining in on "What's on the menu Wednesday" over at Dining with Debbie today...stop over for more tempting recipes!

Kielbasa Skillet Dinner

2011-02-25T15:46:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:

1 stick butter

1 head cabbage, chopped

1 onion, chopped

1 pound kielbasa, sliced into ½ inch pieces

1 box potato and cheddar pierogies , boiled according to directions

salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Melt butter in large skillet and then add cabbage and onion. Cook until soft (stirring frequently).

Add kielbasa and cook for 10 minutes covered. Add pierogies and stir gently to mix.

Season to taste.

**Pierogies are filled pasta pockets. Check out the Mrs.T's website for the many varieties.

Good eatin' on a winter day........

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2011-02-21T11:41:00.000-05:00

A balmy 70 degrees on Friday and then snow on Sunday.....

Even the birds are feelin' confused !! Come on Mother Nature, cut us a break and listen to the groundhog.
Join us over at "Little Red House" for more entries this Mosaic Monday!

It's a bummer to get old.....

2011-02-17T11:43:00.002-05:00

Two very elderly ladies were enjoying the sunshine on a park bench in Miami.
They had been meeting at the park every sunny day, for over 12 years...
chatting, and enjoying each others friendship.

One day, the younger of the two ladies, turns to the other and says..."Please don't be angry with me dear, but I am embarrassed, after all these years... What is your name? I am trying to remember, but I just can't."

The older friend stares at her, looking very distressed, says nothing for 2 full minutes, and finally with tearful eyes, says...
"How soon do you have to know?"

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2011-02-14T00:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

This is the homemade valentine that I sent last year. May you all feel love today.
Join us over at "Little Red House" for more Mosaic Monday inspiration! :)

Groundhog day

2011-01-29T12:22:00.006-05:00

Groundhog Day is Feburary 2, 2011!

The Prognosticator of Prognosticators, Punxsutawney Phil, will once again appear at sunrise at Gobbler's Knob in the Pennsylvania Wilds to make his annual prediction.

You can watch Phil's prediction LIVE right here on visitPA.com on 2/2/11.

http://www.visitpa.com/groundhog-day

Please spring come early, enough is enough!!

Free fashionable lunch tote from Lean*Cuisine

2011-01-28T15:20:00.003-05:00

Lean Cuisine is offering a free lunch tote when you collect codes listed inside specially marked packages of the convenient frozen entrees.Register and collect 20 codes listed inside the lids, enter them online and you'll get a cute, fashionable little lunch tote for free. They're just the right size to hold your lean cuisine meal.

Choose from four styles:

The offer expires on March 31.

Check it out here:
http://freelunchbags.leancuisine.com/

2011-01-20T12:37:00.001-05:00

Pepperoni & Cheddar Corn Muffins {in a "jiffy"}

These corn muffins are so easy, you simply add 3 items to a Jiffy corn muffin mix.
Gotta love it. Taste wonderful with any chowder or soup.

Ingredients:
1 (8 1/2 ounce) boxes Jiffy corn muffin mix
1 eggs
1/3 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sliced pepperoni, finely chopped

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Grease muffin pans, or use paper baking cups.
Blend all ingredients; batter will be slightly lumpy.
For maximum crown on muffins let batter rest for 3 or 4 minutes, then re-stir before filling muffin cups.

Go Pittsburgh!

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2011-01-17T13:02:00.000-05:00

~ It takes years to build up trust,

and only seconds to destroy it. ~

When I came across this quote, it spoke volumes to me...but quickly I remembered another...
" Everything happens for a reason ".
One of my favorites.
Join us over at " Little Red House " for more Mosaic Monday.

Baby, it's cold outside...

2011-01-14T11:42:00.000-05:00

We need to try to stay warm and what could be better then some "stick to your ribs" comfort food?

Easy Shepherd's Pie Recipe :

Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs ground round beef
1 onion chopped
1-2 cups vegetables - chopped carrots, corn, peas
1 1/2 - 2 lbs potatoes (3 big ones)
8 tablespoons butter (1 stick)
1/2 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt, pepper, other seasonings of choice

Method:
* Peel and quarter potatoes, boil in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes).

While the potatoes are cooking, melt 4 Tab. butter (1/2 a stick) in large frying pan.

* Sauté onions in butter until tender over medium heat (10 mins). If you are adding vegetables, add them according to cooking time. Put any carrots in with the onions. Add corn or peas either at the end of the cooking of the onions, or after the meat has initially cooked.

* Add ground beef and sauté until no longer pink. Add salt and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce.

* Add half a cup of beef broth and cook, uncovered, over low heat for 10 minutes, adding more beef broth as necessary to keep moist.

* Mash potatoes in bowl with remainder of butter, season to taste.

* Place beef and onions in baking dish. Distribute mashed potatoes on top.
Rough up with a fork so that there are peaks that will brown nicely. You can use the fork to make some designs in the potatoes as well.

* Cook in 400 degree oven until bubbling and brown (about 30 minutes). Broil for last few minutes if necessary to brown.
Serves four.

Note: I made some browm gravy to add to this and it's a keeper, we enjoyed it!

*********************************************

Use Free care e-cards and you can generate donations for worthwhile charities. Just link below:http://www.care2.com/ecards

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2011-01-10T10:16:00.001-05:00

January brings the snow........

Join in over at "Little Red house" for mosaic monday!

Mosaic Monday

2010-12-13T11:20:00.000-05:00

Join us over at "Little red house " for Mosaic Monday........

~ Words for life's journey ~

2010-12-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

A heartfelt thanks to all of you for your comments on my last post...I have such wonderful friends and it was truly appreciated.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

"Little Grandma"

2010-12-05T13:29:00.000-05:00

Early this morning, my sweet mother passed away peacefully in her sleep. How appropriate that it’s a Sunday and today she’s worshipping and dancing for joy ……in heaven.
Keep me in your prayers,
Suzy

Mosaic Monday

2010-11-30T00:27:00.000-05:00

Grandson Alex knew that he really wanted to play an instrument in the school band...but which one? Well, I think it took very little convincing once the teacher said that he was the only one that could blow hard enough to get a sound out of the ...slide trombone. On Thanksgiving we were entertained with " Hot Cross Buns" and "Merrily we roll along". He was excited to hear that his great - grandfather also played the trombone... in a marching band.

Join in over at "Little red house" for mosaic monday.

Count your blessings...

2010-11-24T23:43:00.002-05:00

Sweet Potato Cake

Serves:15

Ingredients:

1 Betty Crocker Super Moist yellow cake mix
1/2 cup chopped pecans, if desired
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 eggs
1 can (18 ounces) vacuum packed sweet potatoes or 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooled and mashed =1 3/4 cups)

Additional chopped pecans if desired
Betty Crocker Cream cheese icing

Directions:
1- Heat oven to 350°. Grease bottom and sides of rectangular pan, 13 x 9 x 2 inches, with shortening; lightly flour.

2- Beat all ingredients except icing and additional pecans in large bowl with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds (batter will be thick). Beat on medium speed 2 minutes, scrapping bowl frequently. Pour into pan.

3- Bake 28 to 32 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Run knife around side of pan to loosen.
Cool completely, about 1 hour.
Spread icing over top of cake. Sprinkle with pecans. Store covered in refrigerator.

High Altitude (3500 to 6500 feet): Bake 35 to 40 minutes.

1 Serving: Calories 315 (Calories from Fat 70); Fat 8g

HAVE A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!

Mosaic Monday

2010-11-22T00:33:00.001-05:00

I'm such a sentimental soul......I love anything old.

Old china, old linens and ladies hankies,

old stories, old houses and barns

and...

Thanks to Mary over at "Little red house" for her Mosaic Monday meme.

~ Words for life's journey ~

2010-11-21T10:37:00.000-05:00

If there is no passion in your life,

then have you really lived?

Find your passion,

whatever it may be.

Become it, and let it become you

and you will find great things happen

for you, to you,

and because of you.

~ Inspiring women ~

2010-11-17T22:57:00.007-05:00

I received this e-mail recently and it's a little lengthy, but it did my heart good to read it and I wanted to share:

Annie
(Author Unknown)

Dr. Frank Mayfield was touring Tewksbury Institute when, on his way out, he accidentally collided with an elderly floor maid. To cover the awkward moment Dr. Mayfield started asking questions, "How long have you worked here?" "I've worked here almost since the place opened," the maid replied. "What can you tell me about the history of this place?" he asked. "I don't think I can tell you anything, but I could show you something."
With that, she took his hand and led him down to the basement under the oldest section of the building. She pointed to one of what looked like small prison cells, their iron bars rusted with age, and said, "That's the cage where they used to keep Annie."
"Who's Annie?" the doctor asked.
"Annie was a young girl who was brought in here because she was incorrigible - which means nobody could do anything with her. She'd bite and scream and throw her food at people. The doctors and nurses couldn't even examine her or anything. I'd see them trying with her spitting and scratching at them. I was only a few years younger than her myself and I used to think, 'I sure would hate to be locked up in a cage like that.' I wanted to help her, but I didn't have any idea what I could do. I mean, if the doctors and nurses couldn't help her, what could someone like me do?

"I didn't know what else to do, so I just baked her some brownies one night after work. The next day I brought them in. I walked carefully to her cage and said, 'Annie I baked these brownies just for you. I'll put them right here on the floor and you can come and get them if you want.' Then I got out of there just as fast as I could because I was afraid she might throw them at me. But she didn't. She actually took the brownies and ate them.
"After that, she was just a little bit nicer to me when I was around. And sometimes I'd talk to her. Once, I even got her laughing. One of the nurses noticed this and she told the doctor. They asked me if I'd help them with Annie. I said I would if I could.
So that's how it came about that every time they wanted to see Annie or examine her, I went into the cage first and explained and calmed her down and held her hand. Which is how they discovered that Annie was almost blind."

After they'd been working with her for about a year - and it was tough sledding with Annie - the Perkins institute for the Blind opened its doors. They were able to help her and she went on to study and became a teacher herself.
Annie came back to the Tewksbury Institute to visit, and to see what she could do to help out. At first, the Director didn't say anything and then he thought about a letter he'd just received. A man had written to him about his daughter. She was absolutely unruly - almost like an animal. He'd been told she was blind and deaf as well as 'deranged.' He was at his wit's end, but he didn't want to put her in an asylum. So he wrote here to ask if we knew of anyone - any teacher - who would come to his house and work with his daughter.

And that is how Annie Sullivan became the lifelong companion of Helen Keller.
When Helen Keller received the Nobel Prize, she was asked who had the greatest impact on her life and she said, "Annie Sullivan." But Annie said, "No Helen. The woman who had the greatest influence on both our lives was a floor maid at the Tewksbury Institute."

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2010-11-15T00:17:00.005-05:00

Start living now. Stop saving the good china for that special occasion. Stop withholding your love until that special person materializes. Every day you are alive is a special occasion. Every minute, every breath, is a gift from God.

Join in over here for " Mosaic Monday ".

Mary Manin Morrissey

A gaggle...

2010-11-14T00:39:00.001-05:00

"Two sounds of Autumn are unmistakable,

the hurrying rustle of crisp leaves blown along the street or road by a gusty wind, and a flock of migrating geese.

Both are warnings of chill days ahead, fireside and topcoat weather."

- Hal Borland

" The Homecoming " - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

2010-11-11T12:23:00.001-05:00

Thanks to all our veterans, past and present, who risk their lives

fighting to keep us safe.

We appreciate what you do for us.

{ Almost } Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-10T09:20:00.001-05:00

Post a photo and join in over at Wordless Wednesday........

~ Mosaic Monday ~

2010-11-07T23:49:00.000-05:00

Rules for Happiness:

something to do,

someone to love,

something to hope for."

Immanuel Kant

"The most important thing is to

enjoy your life,

to be happy,

it's all that matters."

Audrey Hepburn

Mary, over at "Little Red House"
is our host for ~ Mosaic Monday ~
Stop on over and join in the fun!

Words for Life's Journey.......

2010-11-06T23:53:00.000-04:00

“We need to find God,

and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness.

God is the friend of silence.

See how nature - trees, flowers, grass grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence...We need silence to be able to touch souls.”

Mother Teresa

“Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for,
forgotten by everybody,

I think that is a much greater hunger,
a much greater poverty

than the person who has nothing to eat.”

“Do not think that love,
in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary.
What we need is to love without getting tired.
Be faithful in small things because
it is in them that your strength lies.”

And we eat this stuff.......

2010-11-03T12:51:00.003-04:00

Sally Davies knew this photography project — done on a lark to win a bet with a friend was going to be a little weird. But 24 hours in, it turned really weird. Davies, a New York artist and photographer, decided to buy a Mc*Donald’s Happy* Meal, set it out on a plate in her East Village apartment, and document its gradual decay (or lack thereof).
Check this out:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/39656461/ns/today-foodwine

“Listen, I’m not the little artist taking on Big Meat,” Davies said. “But if there’s enough salt and fat in that thing to turn it into a freaking doorstop, you’ve got to wonder: What’s that doing to your arteries? ...

Todayshow.com

Autumn's last fling....

2010-10-31T23:26:00.009-04:00

Preserving Autumn Leaves

Try turning autumn leaves into decorative home accents.

The key to leaf crafts though is to keep the leaves from crumbling, curling or turning brown. On an ironing board place the leaves between two sheets of wax paper with the waxy side on the leaf. Cover with brown paper (like a grocery bag) and iron on medium heat. The iron will melt the wax onto the leaf, preserving not only its shape but its color.

"There are not more than five primary colors (blue, yellow, red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen”

~ Autumn Treasure ~

Summer’s glory, Autumn’s crown,

Casts it’s treasure to the ground,

Red and yellow, orange and brown,

Spinning, twirling, round and round,

Waltzing slowly to the ground,

One last curtsy, one last bow,

Then kiss the earth and make no sound,

Paper jewels on the ground…waiting to be found.

~Caramel Apple Yogurt Parfaits~

2 cups creamy vanilla yogurt

2 medium unpeeled apples cut into chunks

1/4 cup caramel topping

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped
pecans or walnuts

Reserve 1/4 cup yogurt for topping. Divide remaining yogurt among 4 (8-oz) glasses or dessert dishes. Spoon 1/2 cup of the apple chunks over yogurt in each glass. Top each with 1 tablespoon of the remaining yogurt. Spoon 1 tablespoon caramel topping over yogurt. Sprinkle pecans over each parfait. Serve immediately!

Join us over here for " Mosaic Monday ".

~Words for life's journey ~

2010-10-31T08:25:00.003-04:00

Here's some inspirational quotes about life from a "giant of a man..."
Please watch this video and be blessed!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8ZuKF3dxCY&feature=related

10 minute pumpkin....

2010-10-28T12:05:00.001-04:00

I found this pumpkin craft somewhere on the internet and I thought it was a clever idea for only ten minutes of my time.

I bought 20 inches of pumpkin material (45 inches wide) and cut it on the fold giving me two pieces. (One for you and one for a friend).

Grab a roll of toilet paper and sit it in the center of one piece of fabric. Tuck the fabric into the center hole of the roll (no need to glue anything)

Cut a piece of brown paper bag about 12 " long and fold accordion style.
Add some raffia, if you've got any, fold in half and push it into the center.
I added a piece of green plaid fabric for leaves.

And there you are!...a instant fall decoration!

This is a re-post from 11/09/09. I thought it was worth repeating.