Friday, October 28, 2005

Enjoy Life!

Probably obvious from the time between posts, this week has been very busy! But, in the midst of that - I've been reading the book of Ecclesiastes. I've read it before, but this time had some new ideas stand out.

The theme that came to me over and over again as I read it, is to enjoy the life that God has given us. Fear Him, follow His commands, but enjoy the gift of this life. I thought of when I give gifts and how much I want the receiver to enjoy the gift. Same with God.

The Christian life should not be all drudgery and boredom. It should be exciting and exhilirating because we have purpose, hope, and joy in Christ.

My parents are arriving today, and we're heading to Washington DC to cheer on my Dad who will be running the Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday!

Saturday, October 22, 2005

Chinese Night

Two years ago today, we closed on our house. There was no carpet - the roof leaked - and the siding was rotting. We got Chinese and had a candlelight picnic in front of the fireplace. Last year, we did the same and are looking forward to it again tonight!

Friday, October 21, 2005

Cupcake Cuties!


We had fun decorating cupcakes last night with these darlings - Brooke, Talley, and Brant-Fowler hiding in the back! They were yummy too (the cupcakes, not the cuties)! Here's the recipe:


Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
2 1/2 c. and 2 Tbsp. flour
1 T. baking powder
1 c. and 2 Tbsp. cocoa
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 1/4 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. nutmeg
3/4 c. buttermilk
1 1/2 c. pumpkin
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/4 stick unsalted butter
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. sugar
5 large eggs

Preheat oven to 375. Sift flour, cocoa, soda, powder, and spices together. Beat butter and sugar in another bowl until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and beat until mixture is smooth and light. In a third bowl, mix pumpkin, buttermilk and vanilla.

Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture to the egg and sugar mixture. Blend well after each addition. Put 1/4 c. batter into each of 36 muffin cups that have either been sprayed with cooking spray or have a muffin paper in them.

Bake for 22 minutes, cool for 20 minutes. Remove from muffin pan and cool completely on cooling rack. Frost with your favorite icing recipe.

Recipe from Oct. 2005 Country Living.

Tuesday, October 18, 2005

Sisters!

My sister has been here for the long weekend and we have had a wonderful time together! I am so thankful for her! She is so smart, fun, and creative! Thanks for coming, Carrie! Love you!

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

Too Much Information

Yesterday, I was reading Hinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard. I have always loved this book and it has been a blessing, encouragement, and challenge to me. However, I was curious what her references to "Cant. 1:1-6" meant. So, I found out that it is an abbreviation for Canticles which can also refer to Song of Solomon. Great.

Ok, now for the part I did not want to know. Apparently, later in her writings and life, Hannah Hurnard became a heretic of the faith. She became pretty involved in New Age things from what I read. Of course, I do not know anything myself because I did not KNOW her myself. But, this is the truth that has been repeating itself to me - it just shows that we are all very susceptible to things contrary to God if we are not always on guard and studying His Word.

A good reminder...but I wish I hadn't read this information!

Monday, October 10, 2005

Milk Mysteries

Ok, what is the big deal with all the mystery surrounding the truth on milk? Especially as I consider what to start Emily on in the near future. Here is what I find:

- Don't drink regular milk, it contains lots of harmful hormones and pesticides.
- Organic milk is a scam - don't buy into it.
- The argument that milk contains HARMFUL hormones and pesticides is false. After all, it is FDA approved.
- Our daughters are maturing at an earlier age - stay away from non-organic milk.
- Give soy milk.
- Don't give soy milk - lots of allergies.
- Don't drink cow's milk period.
- Milk is a necessary part of a healthy diet.
- Remove all dairy from your diet and you will feel better.

It is all going to come down to me deciding what is best for us. But, does anyone have any factual info?

Signed,
A Frustrated Milk Drinker

Thursday, October 06, 2005

Little Things

I love discovering little homekeeping helps! One that I read somewhere (sorry, I can't remember where) was to use a lint roller to clean lamp shades. I tried this today while dusting and it was great! I will be making this part of my dusting routine.

I also had a closet door that would not go back on because we had the floor re-done when we moved in. So, the linen closet in our bathroom has been in full view for two years. This was starting to bother me. So, I got a cheap spring rod and some fabric and voila, a new door for the closet has been born!

Recipe Update

Finally an update on my Broccoli Chicken Lasagna recipe! It has been accepted and will be printed in the newest Gooseberry Patch cookbook called, Best Ever Casseroles. The cookbook will be out sometime in March 2006! Click here for the recipe.

Wednesday, October 05, 2005

Can You Help?

A fellow sister-in-Christ needs our help. She is looking for a way to earn income while staying at home with her three children. Do you know of a company that is trustworthy and honest? I'm interested in your ideas! Thanks for your help -

Monday, October 03, 2005

Over and Over

Over and over You're never changing

Over and over Your love is flowing

Over and over new mercies I see

As over and over Your grace and strength touch me.

Over and over like waves of the sea

Your forgiveness is there setting me free

Over and over as waves wash ashore

You offer a life lived with You evermore.