word of the day and more books on my bucket list

antepenultimate  \an-tee-pi-NUHL-tuh-mit\ , adjective:

 

{Did you know that I am an antepenultimate child?! I didn't either until yesterday when I read this word for the day on my igoogle page! Pretty cool, eh? Next time I get asked about my fam/sibs I will proclaim, "We have a rather large family as I am the antepenultimate offspring...."}

1. Third from the end.
2. Of or pertaining to an antepenult.

noun:
1. An antepenult.

The vengeful eagles of the open sequence [and] the birds of augury watched outside the library and the emblematic kinsmen who shake 'the wings of their exultant and terrible youth' in the antepenultimate entry in Stephen's diary.
-- James Joyce, introduction by Hugh Kenner, Ulysses

But all day that is how it is, from the first tick to the last tack, or rather from the third to the antepenultimate, allowing for the time it needs, the tamtam within, to drum you back into the dream and drum you back out again.
-- Samuel Beckett, Mercier and Camier

This adjective is the product of three Latin roots: ante meaning "before," paen meaning "almost" and ultima meaning "last."


Also, I really want to read and own both of these books!! I love Gretchen Rubin's thoughts about life and happiness; her article each month is the main reason I look forward to the next issue of Good Housekeeping! She writes candidly and with humor about her year-long experiment on making small life changes that added to her daily happiness. I like how she brings out that tiny seemingly mundane choices can really add or subtract from how happy we are "at home" each day, and that we have to embrace TODAY because we are living our life right now! I could purchase both books on eBay or on my Nook, but I'm kinda hoarding the rest of my Christmas $ {since I had a fine time blowing quite a bit of it which will be a whole 'nother blog post one of these days!} and am hoping to find used copies second-hand instead! So, please, if you happen to find either of them and don't want 'em, nab 'em for me!

GIVEAWAY!!!

Since it's Christmas... and I'm tired of baking cakes, and I learned that Wendy's doesn't open until 10:30!!! {what in the world?! I had to go home frosty-less and sad!} and since 'tis more blessed to give than to receive, and since I love y'all, I decided to be like the other big, bad, fancy-schmancy blogs and have a merry little GIVEAWAY! Hip, hip, hooray! Maybe you will be the winner of my most favoritest kitchen gadget ever! Except you won't be getting mine, you'll be the proud owner of a brand spanking new one fresh from Kohl's! Hear ye, hear ye! The most splendidforous 2 cup measure on the planet! No more laborious bending over at the waist to see if you've poured just the right amount of buttermilk for red velvet cake! A simple glance from above does the job!

The rules for the giveaway are as follows:

1. Please answer this question with a comment - "What did your Christmas dinner menu consist of?" Did you stay traditional, or stray away? Have McD's? Or steak, or seafood? Did you cook Southern Living's festive spread recipe by recipe? I love food, and I wanna know! :)

2. Your comment counts as your entry to the giveaway.

3. One comment per person, please!

4. Giveaway will be open for entries for 2 weeks since this is such a busy time and some of you may nary have a chance or remember to peak at this ole blog, and I don't want anyone to feel left out! So any comment left before January 7, 2013 midnight will be counted.

5. To make this as even as I know how since I don't have a giveaway selector thingy, or know how to download, or use one! I am going to be old-fashioned and print off every single comment, cut them in even-sized strips, put 'em in a hat, and have Daniel draw out the winner! If the winner should be one of my dear local readers, I will bestow the measure upon you in person! If not, I will contact you for your address and send it to you via Pony Express! {I mean USPS priority mail.}

P.S. If you send me some of your favorite Christmas candy, cookies, or sweets of any kind, it will count as 2 entries!! .............................................Just joking!

HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

sadness

{I've been thinking so often of the innocent children that were so tragically taken last Friday...and praying that their families could somehow find Christmas peace....but I couldn't seem to put my sadness into coherent words. This poem does it for me. I received it today from a friend via email....it was written by Cameo Smith. }

Twas' 11 days before Christmas, around 9:38 when 20 beautiful children stormed through heaven's gate.

Their smiles were contagious, their laughter filled the air. They could hardly believe all the beauty they saw there.

They were filled with such joy, they didn't know what to say. They remembered nothing of what had happened earlier that day.

"Where are we?" asked a little girl, as quiet as a mouse.
"This is heaven." declared a small boy. "We're spending Christmas at God's house."
When what to their wondering eyes did appear, but Jesus, their savior, the children gathered near.

He looked at them and smiled, and they smiled just the same. Then He opened His arms and He called them by name.
And in that moment was joy, that only heaven can bring.

Those children all flew into the arms of their King.
And as they lingered in the warmth of His embrace, one small girl turned and looked at Jesus' face.

And as if He could read all the questions she had. He gently whispered to her, "I'll take care of mom and dad."

Then He looked down on earth, the world far below. He saw all of the hurt, the sorrow, and woe.

Then He closed His eyes and He outstretched His hand, "Let My power and presence re-enter this land!"
"may this country be delivered from the hands of fools" "I'm taking back my nation. I'm taking back my schools!"

Then He and the children stood up without a sound.
"Come now my children, let me show you around."
Excitement filled the space, some skipped and some ran.
All displaying enthusiasm that only a small child can.

And I heard Him proclaim as He walked out of sight, "in the midst of this darkness, I AM STILL THE LIGHT."

Written by Cameo Smith, Mt. Wolf , PA
 

musings

Amidst my busyness, my fingers have been itching to WRITE! I get serious withdrawals if I go too long with scribing my thoughts! Much has transpired since I've last written... We had the loveliest Christmas Saturday evening with Mom, Bill, Billy, and Jo. We feasted on succulent prime rib, loaded baked potatoes, french bread, and the tenderest broccoli ever from Bill's garden! Next was PRESENTS! :) Gotta love presents; don't think I will ever outgrow the thrill of unwrapping! I was delighted to open a gorgeous, red Oster blender! Smoothies, here we come!!!

 

Also love my new cookbook and Christmas spending $$! Abby and Bella loved their presents too! I had baked some homemade dog treats for them. I've had a bone cookie cutter for years and never tried it! They were super easy and fun to make! Diesel and Leroy think I should win a "Good DogKeeping Award" LOL!

 

Here's the recipe if you have any pooches that need pampering!

You’ll need:

• 2 cups whole-wheat flour
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1 cup peanut butter (chunky or smooth)
• 1 cup milk

Preheat oven to 375′F.
In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk, then add to dry ingredients and mix well. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and knead.
Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness and use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Bake for 18-20 minutes on a greased baking sheet until lightly brown. Cool on a rack, then store in an airtight container.
Make sure you keep an eye on them, because they tend to burn easily.

 

 

 

After presents, we had coffee, some delicious "cranberry bliss bars", and the red velvet cheesecake cake. Was a wonderful night of relaxing quality family time!
I've been baking cakes for orders and cinnamon rolls for neighbors....busy, but rewarding. Still have not made fruitcake! I think knowing that it will take 3 hours is hindering me from ever starting... I threw together the second pot of "Christmas Smell" today since the first one wasn't smelling much anymore and was resembling a pot of nasty, black tar. I had been keeping it in the fridge at nights to keep it from rotting. But the new pot sure is smelling wonderful! Yesterday I worked on getting cards/letters in the mail or emailed. Doing about half one way and half the other. Do y'all think getting an email letter is as special? Or is it just plain lame? I'd like to hear your thoughts! Personally, I don't care which method we get them as long as we are on the list! :) I print off the email ones, and add them to my stash of USPS ones and enjoy them just the same! Plus, it's "greener" and cheaper! But, I didn't get a response back from a lot of the email/letters and then I wonder... "did they get it?! did I have the right email address? will they even open it before Christmas?!" So, I dunno which is better! I had to get shots yesterday aft; took Christmas letters along to read in the waiting room...{sometimes I wonder what the other patients think of all the peculiar things I do in the waiting room! paying bills, "sorta quiet" phone conversations, much reading literature etc!} But, I cannot be idle! No, that would never do! I'm wishing I would make a small lap quilt that I could take along and hand-quilt while I wait....sigh! I never seem to accomplish all the artsy crafty things I long to create! Tyler and Rylan are spending the day with me today so Kristi can accomplish things that desperately need doing before they go to the mission. We stopped by Rhonda's and ended up staying for lunch. They had good time playing with Neil. Back home now; naps {quite short ones, I thought!} are done, and I just might start cutting up fruit for fruitcake while they are playing toys! Crossing my fingers while I get out the knife and cutting board....

did you know?

- How We Came To Celebrate Christmas on December 25th -  

 “In the 4th century, Catholic Church officials decided to institute the birth of Jesus as a holiday. Although the date of his birth is not pinpointed in the Bible, Pope Julius I chose December 25th. When Oliver Cromwell and his Puritan forces took over England in 1645 they vowed to rid England of decadence and, as part of this effort, Christmas was cancelled. Charles II was later restored to the throne by popular demand, and with him, Christmas. “

 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

 

{I read this interesting tidbit today, and thought I'd share it!}

the cake of all cakes!

Time for a recipe! This baby is what I am going to make {or attempt to make!} for our Christmas supper in Pace Saturday night! The middle layer is solid, baked CHEESECAKE! Wowzers! Can't wait to dig into it! IF it turns out....

 

 

 

 

 Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake

 

Yield: 12 to 14 servings

Prep Time: 1 hr + cooling and chill times

Cook Time: 1 hr, 15 min

This recipe has a few steps to it, but it's all worth it in the end! It's easiest to make the cheesecake layer one day and then assemble the rest of the cake the next.

Ingredients:

CHEESECAKE:
Two (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
2/3 cup granulated white sugar
pinch of salt
2 large eggs
1/3 cup sour cream
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
RED VELVET CAKE:
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated white sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch process)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups vegetable or canola oil
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup (two 1-ounce bottles) red food coloring
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons white vinegar
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted lightly to remove any lumps
Two (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Place a large roasting pan on the lower third rack of the oven. Place a kettle of water on the stove to boil. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom with a round of parchment paper. Wrap a double layer of foil around the bottom and up the sides of the pan (you want to seal it so the water from the water bath doesn't seep into the pan). In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to mix the cream cheese- blend until it is nice and smooth and creamy. Mix in sugar and salt and blend for 2 minutes, scraping down sides of the bowl as needed. Add eggs, one at a time, blending after each addition. Finally, mix in sour cream, whipping cream and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Set the pan into the roasting pan in the pre-heated oven. Carefully pour the hot water from your kettle into the roasting pan (it will fill the pan surrounding the cheesecake). Pour enough water so that there is about an inch of water coming up the foil along the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes. It should be set to the touch and not jiggly. Remove the cheesecake from the roasting pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour. When it has cooled, place the pan into the freezer and let the cheesecake freeze completely. This can be done in several hours- or overnight.
2. Prepare the cake layers: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round metal baking pans (or spray with nonstick baking spray with flour). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Add eggs, oil, buttermilk, food coloring, vanilla and vinegar to the flour mixture. Using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat for 1 minute, until blended. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl with a rubber spatula. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pans, dividing equally. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let cool in pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pans, then invert cakes onto a rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter and vanilla until it is smooth and creamy (do not overbeat).
4. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer into the center of a cake plate or platter. Remove the cheesecake from the freezer, take off the sides of the pan, and slide a knife under the parchment to remove the cheesecake from the pan. Peel off the parchment. Measure your cheesecake layer against the cake layers. If the cheesecake layer turns out to be a slightly larger round than your cake, move it to a cutting board and gently shave off some of the exterior of the cheesecake to get it to the same size as your cake layers. Place the cheesecake layer on top of the first cake layer. Place the 2nd cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
5. Frost the cake: Apply a crumb coat layer to the cake- use a long, thin spatula to cover the cake completely with a thin and even layer of frosting. Be sure to wipe off your spatula each time you are about to dip it back into the bowl to get more frosting (this way you won't be transferring any red crumbs into the bowl of frosting). Don't worry at this point about the crumbs being visible in the frosting on the cake. When your cake has a thin layer of frosting all over it, place it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes to "set" the frosting. Once the first layer of frosting is set, apply the 2nd layer. Start by adding a large scoop of frosting onto the top of the cake. Use a long, thin spatula to spread the frosting evenly across the top and then spread it down the sides of the cake too. Because you applied a crumb-coat layer, you shouldn't have any red crumbs floating around in the final frosting layer. Decorate, as desired. I recommend white chocolate shavings (see *Tips below). Keep this cake refrigerated.

Tips:

*For making white chocolate shavings: Purchase a hunk of white chocolate. Microwave the chocolate to soften it up slightly (15 to 30 seconds, depending on the size). Use a potato peeler to run down the side of the chocolate to create shards/shaves/curls of white chocolate. I like to shave it onto a paper plater and then just use the plate to slide the chocolate onto the top of the cake.
*If you are serving this cake at a party, it's perfectly okay to leave the cake at room temperature for an hour or so while serving. Otherwise, keep it in the refrigerator. It also freezes perfectly! I made my cake one day and then just placed it as-is in the freezer and pulled it out the next day. It thaws quickly.

Source: RecipeGirl.com (cake & frosting portions of the recipe from Piece of Cake, inspired by the red velvet cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory and by a version of this cake made by Erin's Food Files )

wishful thinking

 

Good morning!!! Can hardly believe that I got up at 5:30 a.m. and am now drinking coffee out of my favorite NYC mug, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed with a couple loads of laundry already done and a load of dishes loaded in the dishwasher! How extremely rare! The reason for this is that my hubby wanted to go hunting this morning even though it is insanely cold outside! I sure hope he is rewarded for his endurance! poor thing.... but it was his choice I guess! So I decided to be a big girl and stay up instead of going back to bed after he headed out. I just finished my bowl of Cream of Wheat which I took the time to make it like my mom did growing up...on the stove! So it turned out smooth and creamy instead of lumpy like my normal microwave version does. Yummm....and then you just have to bury some clumps of brown sugar in it while it's hot so when you are eating it, you stumble across these pockets of liquid brown sweetness....

  I wandered into World Market on Monday to finish up some Christmas shopping, and wanted to stay awhile and set up housekeeping right there in the store! That place makes me swoon....and transports me to places all over the world that I've never been! The thought even crossed my mind that it wouldn't be such a bad idea to be locked in overnight. But I decided not to hide in the aisles and forced myself to leave and go to Walmart, horror of horrors in the Christmas season! Anyway, after several hours of shopping, I had everyone crossed off my list! Yay! But, I also had compiled quite a list in my head of things that little ME wanted! Why is it so easy to shop for myself?! These are the items that have my heart pumping peanut butter! And I am amazed how domestic most of them are!

 Love these cake pop pans at World Market...

  This VS robe would be perfect to lounge in...

 Old welcome mat is on its last leg! Or shall we say "foot?!"

 

 

Or shall I get this one?! It so cracks me up!!!

 

Need a new blender... but NOT this one! It's ON SALE at Kohl's for $710!!! Don't know how a blender can ever cost that much! {I have a Food Network blender hidden at Dirt Cheap, waiting for it to go 80% off}

 

 

 Anthony gave me this shoe calendar last year, and I LOVED it! Want another one for 2013.

  Another World Market find...a single cup coffee dripper! Put in a filter, add grounds, pour hot water over, and wait for a fresh cup 'o coffee!

 

   Another item that I have hidden at DC...need to stop by and check on it today!

 

 This is probably the best thing I could spend my Christmas $ on! Perfect for zapping up crumbs and grass when you don't feel like getting out your big vacuum, while is ALWAYS for me!

 

Do y'all have your Christmas shopping all done? and your own Christmas list compiled? :)

 

gettin' in the holiday mood!

 

 

I falter to even TYPE this....this rash decision I made yesterday in Atmore. But, I WILL! and I hope you can give me advice on how not to commit murder again. You see, I bought a TREE! A living, breathing, alive TREE! That I desperately don't want to kill! It's the loveliest little "Meiwa Kumquat" tree! I plan to give it a home in a large pot on the front porch for the first year of its life with us. That way I can tenderly nurture it through our harsh Florida winter by covering it or wrapping it with Christmas lights for warmth should a deathly frost bear down upon us. Then once it's more established, I'll {umm... I mean Daniel} will plant it out in the yard! The man at Central said I should spray it with insecticide if it looks like it needs it. {help! how will I know?!} Any tips on growing citrus trees would be appreciated! To me, a kumquat tree is the best kind of Christmas tree!

I also wanted to share with you how completely Christmasy our house smells right now! I had seen these little stove-top potpourri gift bags on Pinterest, and had rapidly made one for a hostess gift for the candy exchange at Kristen's this morning. Which was the sweetest little party! Literally! She had five of us, and we all brought at least two kinds of candy and got to take home a broad assortment! Of course, I just had to sample each kind once I was back in the secrecy of my own house! But just the teeniest, weeniest little tastes you know! Anyway, since all the mess of making the potpourri was still strewn about the kitchen, I put together a batch and stuck it on the stove to simmer. Alas! I forgot that I had kinda it turned up a bit to hurry it along, and it BOILED violently before I noticed. But the most wonderful smells were spewing forth, so I didn't fret for long. I do wonder how many days it will continue to emit scent without rotting.... Here's the recipe if you want to try it!

Stove-top potpourri kits. Cute neighbor gift idea: one orange, 1/2 c cranberries, 1 Tbs whole cloves, 3 sticks cinnamon, a bit of grated nutmeg. Instructions: "Quarter the orange, place all in a small saucepan filled with water and simmer on lowest setting. Refill water as needed."


So even though it is so sunshiney and balmy outside, it's starting to feel, taste, and smell like Christmas inside our house and in my heart! I want to get our Nativity set put up today along with a few other items of Christmas decor. Still need to bake fruitcake and buy a poinsettia.... Growing up, Dad always bought Mom a poinsettia every year....{and still does!} I've hinted broadly, but Daniel hasn't picked up that tradition. Oh well, it's fun to pick one out myself anyway! :) I'm thinking a blue one would be awesome this time. What Christmas traditions do you carry on each year? We usually made fruitcake with Grandma Smith each Christmas before they moved to MS.....now I always miss her so much when I make it!

It smells like Christmas!....or not.

Is your house smelling of the piney woods, or festive cranberries, or traditional cinnamon? What smells like Christmas to you? Our house smells like garlic and gravy! Ugh! It was some good venison, but the smells that linger aren't so pleasant, and it seems I can barely detect the non-Christmasy Bath and Body Works "wallflower" scent of Mahogany Teakwood {which I do love for other months} that is feebly wafting out. Earlier, I had a Cranberry Woods bulb in, and Daniel proclaimed that it needed to be BANISHED asap. Then I screwed in a Cinnamon Stick.  Not an improvement! Fake cinnamon smell just doesn't cut it. {Don't even get me started on B&BWorks!!!} Are we too picky or what?! Should I brew orange peels and cloves? Steep real pine needles from the woods? Buy a Woodwick candle? Seems there ought to be something awesome out there for this holiday season.... Please share what tickles your nose this time 'o the year! Thanks in advance!

Away to Callaway!

 

 Tonight we will be singing Christmas carols as we journey through the "Fantasy in Lights" with family! But first I have to get ready and get us packed so we can get there! These pics I found don't do it justice; if you get the chance, just go see it for yourself! Also, those of you that requested the email alerts, please let me know if you got one for this post. Ok, I have to go get my boots and scarves packed.....Oh how I love winter and Christmas!

 

 

Interested???

Are any of you, dear faithful readers and commenters, interested in getting an email notification whenever I have posted a new post on the ole blog? My lil sis who is much more bloggerific than I, has found a way for this to happen since the private blogs can't use the regular "follow by email" app. So, if you get weary with checking to see if I've posted {and being disappointed!} please comment, and I will make it send you an email to save you the hassle of loading up the webpage only to find the same old content. Here's to posting more regularly and to only viewing new stuff!!! :)

 

Also, doesn't this reading room just make you swoon?! I would love to brew me some tea, grab some coconut oatmeal cookies, tuck my Nook under my arm, and dive into the picture....

Cinderella is living proof!

Quote of the Day!

{Cinderella is living proof that a pair of shoes can change your life!}

 

 

 

 

I'm loving my new Adidas trail runners!

do you ever....

Do you ever feel like the "brooding blues" and the "sappy sunshine" are fighting for a hold on your soul? Each trying desperately to seep inside you and take control? I do. Maybe just because I am me, or because I am a woman, who knows?! I'll find myself sinking...down into navy blue thoughts about situations and life in general, and then I'll suddenly snap out of it with the cheery thought that "Every little thing's gonna be alright!" And then the next minute I've got this little tear squeezing outa my eye again....sigh! Don't I have a choice whether or not I want to ride this emotional roller coaster? Maybe I do, maybe I don't, but more often than I like I find myself on board. And then you just gotta hang on till the ride is over and and the sun is shining again! :) Is this normal? Am I OK? Please tell me...or better yet, come sit beside me if you're riding it too!

happy black friday!

Black Friday 2012 found me sleeping soundly in bed! This year, Black Friday "sleeping" sounded better than "shopping!" Daniel didn't have to work, so we just slept until we awoke, which was around 9. Then we lazed around and ate a can of Pillsbury Orange Danish Rolls for breakfast. Perfecto! Around 2:30, I decided to go Black Friday shopping after all! {in Atmore! lol} Netted 1 Christmas present at Goody's and a 2 liter at Family Dollar for $.88! Yay! Then I walked two laps in the park as I am still feeling rather enormous after all the food I consumed yesterday....We were at Uncle Kevin's for a magnificent feast of a whole roasted pig, fried turkey, and every other side dish you can imagine! Daniel and I nature-watched yesterday morning, and while he went hunting again in the evening, I went to school to see friends and play softball and volleyball. Was so fun; I miss playing sports; although I don't think they miss me! I did some major fumbling, but hopefully redeemed myself by catching one flyball! We ended up at Wade's for the evening and got in on some delicious seafood - Florida Thanksgiving menu! Finished Turkey Day eating pie and coffee with family...the best way to end a day! I need to get up now and get a pie made for a pie social that we are planning to attend tonight. Think I'll make a pecan.... The smell of tuna is wafting through the kitchen as the dogs' birthday cakes are cooling on the counter. Not the best smell ever, but they should be delighted! Gonna frost them with mashed potatoes and milkbones once they are cool. Later y'all! Tell me in comments what was the best part of your Turkey Day, and if you braved the crowds for Black Friday madness! :)

domestic gratefulness

Today I'd like to share 6 things that I am most grateful for! Not the big things like democracy, freedom of religion, homes, food, clothing, and family that we all know without saying we are so fortunate to have, but the "little" everyday, ordinary things that I often take for granted!

Top of the list has to be the...

1. DISHWASHER!!! I just love piling it brimming full, turning the knob, and later opening the door to witness the evidence of a miracle!

2. Dual-controlled HEATED MATTRESS PAD! Ooohh the bliss of crawling into toasty, warm sheets on a cold night...

3. NOOK! Everywhere I go, I have with me the power of the written word.

4. The color RED! Each room in our house is infused with a bit of this vibrant color and without fail, it makes me HAPPY!

5. Collection of GLASS FIGURINES! Whimsical and colorful, they delight the child in me. :)

6. Unlimited TEXT MESSAGING! Makes it possible to keep in touch with friends and family even though we live a fast-paced life.

I know this list could be way longer, but I have to get a red velvet cake order filled pronto! BTW, check out this awesome link! http://www.3cordshaiti.com/ Blue Elephant Stitches posted about it, and I thought it was so cool! Who wouldn't swoon to own this gorgeous, Haitian-made wristlet?!

what we've been up to...

Howdy! Long time, no blog! Life has been keeping us hopping! Friday I babysat Neil, or as he corrected me, "bigboysat!" because he is NOT a baby! Saturday was Wade and Rhonda's 10th anniversary, so they spent the day and night away to celebrate. I tried to get a lot of baking done for the bake sale, but it didn't really happen. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever be ready to have children of our own! HOW do you ever accomplish anything?! I did get my allergy shots, make 45 whoopee pies, and attend the annual Fruit and Nut Sale though with him before taking him to Grandma Diane's for the night. I couldn't decide when to stop baking, but after 9 pies, 73 whoopee pies counting the ones I had made Thursday, 15 white chip pumpkin streusel muffins, 3 loaves of bread, and a red velvet cake, I called it quits and headed for bed at 2 am. Saturday morning, Anne, Becky, and I loaded the bed of the truck with all our goodies and headed for the Kid's House in Milton. It was a gorgeous day to be out selling baked goods under the trees. We didn't sell out there like we had hoped, but the first time at a location is slower most of the time. It kinda got to be a joke how many people walked by our tables and looked longingly at all the sweets only to sadly shake their heads and say, "I would buy stuff, but I'm diabetic." Guess we should've baked with Splenda! The "Festival of Trees" was Saturday night also, so we got a free sneak peak at all the Christmas loveliness thanks to my sweet mom-in-law! The creativity that people put into decorating their trees was amazing! Becky and I took some baked goods into the gas station we stopped at on the way home and managed to sell one loaf of poppyseed bread. Next stop was Steve's Farm where we sold some more things! Then I decided we should stop by the field where Daniel was dove hunting and we ending up almost selling out to all those guys! So it was an interesting but fun Bake Sale Day! Yesterday we had our church dedication service at Southern Harbor Church. I hadn't ever attended a church dedication before. It was an interesting service with the dates, facts, and figures of the building and of course a sermon and lots of beautiful songs. We had sandwiches, fruit salad, chips, pickles, cake, and ice cream for the meal. Today, Daniel had things to do around here this morning, and left after lunch. I have been dinking and piddling around not accomplished much, yet having much that needs to get accomplished! One more thought before I close, Daniel told me that the new addition in our bedroom should not be called the "Pegboard Partition," rather it is the "Armory!" lol

20 questions

1. Why is it already time to put up Christmas decorations?! Atmore was busy at it, Rhonda and I noticed on our way home from spending 5 hours cleaning a filthy, cluttered house. {I was just fixin' to get out my wooden Pilgrim people! Should I even bother and just get right to the holly sprigs?!}

2. What did YOU eat for lunch? :) Rhonda, Neil, and I had Burger King - note to self - "Don't order the gingerbread milkshake again. It tastes like potpourri!"

3. What baked goods will sell the best at our booth this Saturday at the Santa Rosa Kid's House?.... I'm thinking pies....some full-size, some half-size....maybe apple, pecan, sweet tater, and pumpkin? Also some whoopie pies! Chocolate, red velvet, or pumpkin? or ALL three?!!

4. What brand of cake mix is the best?

5. Any suggestions on how to motivate myself to finish deep-cleaning the kitchen??? {my new years rez was to deep clean the WHOLE house and this year is almost over and I am NOT done!! Eeeek!!}

6. What should I cook for supper tomorrow? Kinda feel out of main course ideas lately.

7. Why is it hard to be thankful when I really have SO much?

8. Think getting a flu shot this year will do the trick? Last year was awful, if I ere not, all but two people at my family's Thanksgiving gathering came down with the flu afterwards!

9. Is name brand Jello superior to store brand?

10. Want to know what Daniel just asked me? He wondered "What are you doin'?" and I said, "Blogging." and he replied, "Bushhoggin' huh." lol

11. Should I or should I not go Black Friday shopping this year? Won't be the same without Alisha and Mirna....

12. Anybody want to go Black Friday shopping with me??? :)

13. Should I just buy the fabric and sew the window treatments for the guest room/studio? Or keeping shopping and hoping I'll find what I like?

14. Did you know that our fur children have birthdays next week? Diesel turns 3 and Leroy 2 on Black Friday!

15. Wonder why the bromiliad that I got at the Garden Party died? One more plant to add the my list of plant homicides.

16. Shall I make the dogs a Milkbone tuna birthday cake? Or Milkbone peanut butter?

17. Did you know that a spoonful of 7 minute frosting lightly sprinkled with salt just makes everything better sometimes?....

18. Does eating grapefruit really help you to lose weight?

19. Any tips on how to budget? For groceries, household, gifts, clothing etc.?

20. Will my dishes do themselves if left alone long enough?? Sadly, I have found the answer to this one by experience, and it is a resounding NO!

he loved it!!!

Danl got home at 7:30 last night. I was so anxious for him to see the peg-board partition, but I wanted him to be totally shocked when he walked into the bedroom, so I didn't say anything. It took F.O.R.E.V.E.R for him to finally go back there for something, and he just stopped, stared, and said W.O.W!!! and then was silent for a bit! I was scared that he didn't like it, but then he said "This is really cool, I love it!!" He is back there right now, putting things he had with him away, and reorganizing his ammo. I'm really excited that now our bedroom actually feels like a calm, peaceful place to sleep and relax instead of an aisle of Bass Pro Shops / Jo-Ann Fabrics that had a bed in it.

while the hubby's away....

While the hubby's away, the wife will NOT play - she will attempt to organize copious amount of hunting and shooting paraphernalia! Shhhh! Don't tell Danl, it's huge surprise! I have been pondering on how to organize his mess for awhile now, and didn't want to tell him what I have in mind for fear of getting shot down! Sometimes it's better to ask forgiveness than permission, y'know what I mean?! I think he will LOVE it when he sees it though! I went to Marvin's this aft, and bought a 4' x 8' piece of pegboard (which they so helpfully cut in half for me! I tried to appear feminine and helpless! lol) I am posting this before I even attempt to begin to hopefully gain some courage for the daunting job awaiting me....First, I plan to move the glider rocker and an end table out of the guest room/studio. That should give enough room to move my sewing desk etc. in! Next, I intend to rearrange the furniture in the master bedroom to accommodate the new "peg board partition" I'm gonna build. It should conceal all the gunnery and give more room to hang things that Danl is always losing, thus making my job of master thing-finder and house beautician easier! I am ready to flex my muscles and BEGIN! (Tara, want to come help?! :) But first, I have a baby shower to attend! It's for Faye {Loewen} Colley. Some of her friends that she grew up with are putting it on for her. A little bird told me that cupcakes will be involved..... Yay! :)

details, details, 'n more details!

Here it is!

Thursday, Nov. 1 - A pleasant day for driving. Stopped at Chickfila for lunch. Have I mentioned how good their lemonade is?! Also the carrot, pineapple, raisin salad! Mel and Danl think it looks disgusting, but they didn't taste it! Arrived in Jonesboro and spent a relaxing evening at the hotel. (see "Away to AR" post)

Friday, Nov. 2 - SLEPT IN! Finally scraggled around and got dressed to go to Cracker Barrel for brunch. I devoured 3 pancakes with Montmorency (which our waitress kept pronouncing as "Montgomery") cherry topping and whipped cream, bacon, and a fried egg along with cups of coffee! Mel had the pecan pancakes, and Danl ate biscuits 'n gravy and a hash brown. All tanked up, we headed to Sears next. Picked out and purchased a stainless steel gas grill for Alex and his bride. Dropped Danl back off at the hotel so Mel and I could girl shop. ;) Jonesboro is a great place for shopping and eating! Couldn't think of a store or restaurant it didn't have! First we browsed Trees 'N Trends; Mel bought the most awesome orange glass fish! Goodwill was next; which netted nothing. Turtle Creek Mall was our next stop. Got Danl some brown leather, casual shoes on clearance for $15 and me two pair of flip-flops for $.35 each! Didn't end up going to see Alex and Ashton's house since we found out it was 40 miles away from Jonesboro. 80 miles round trip! We'll go see them once they are living there one day! Spruced ourselves up for the supper and proceeded to get lost getting there which was mostly my fault since I had been driving when we got there the night before and "thought" I remembered how to get back out on the road we had come in on. But, I DIDN'T and we ended up on dirt roads before finally making it to the First Baptist Church in Truman. Supper was soup and cinnamon rolls, really delish! Visited with lots of friends and fam we hadn't seen in awhile. Ashton was wearing a navy dress with embroidered flower/vines. Alex was maybe 10-15 pounds thinner I thought! They appeared to be pretty relaxed. After supper, a quartet sang, Kelvin Wenger read a poem, and the youth had three songs. We soon headed back to the Hilton.

Saturday, Nov. 3 - Wedding Day! Danl looked so handsome in his new, dark turquoise shirt! We got the church on time without getting lost. I think there was around 350 people there, not sure. The choir sounded really good, Greg Schneider was the leader. Ashton was a beautiful bride! Her dress was simple and elegant; a soft, shimmery mint green with lots of loops and buttons all the way down the front. She had loops and buttons on the belt too. I didn't see her shoes, but Mom said she thought they were shiny with narrow high heels. She's pretty short; or maybe she just looks that way standing by Alex!! They make a good looking couple! Her younger sister was a pretty maid of honor, wearing a beautiful black dress. Since Anthony is tall too, the wedding procession looked pretty balanced out! :)Mike preached an interesting wedding sermon. Lunch was Alex-style - definitely not skimpy! Huge portions of smoked Boston butt, gourmet potatoes, a roll, fruit salad, and pickles covered our plates. For dessert, it was cherry or blueberry cream cheese frosted white cake. I think the mints were even homemade! Two small pale green hearts were on each black napkin. Cute! The flowers on the tables had a large white gerber daisy and greenery with black rocks in the vase. For some reason, I didn't take in the bouquet on the brides table! I know! I know! I failed miserably! I also missed the silverware chest and Bible. Mom said she had beautiful Oneida silverware. Danl wasn't in the mood to hang around while they opened gifts; they didn't seem to be in any kind of rush! Just enjoying it all and taking their time. :) We sacked out for awhile; then went out for sushi at Hiro Japanese Grill. It was super!

Sunday, Nov. 4 - Packed up and checked out by 8:30. Struck out for the mountains of Guntersville. Drove through some beautiful country on Hwy 72. Dad had jumbo bacon-wrapped shrimp and steaks coming off the grill when we arrived! Yummo! Their beautiful, new house is almost done, just a few things here and there that need completing. Finished the day with coffee and pecan pie.

Monday, Nov. 5 - I woke up not feeling the best; clogged sinuses etc. My last zyrtec had sadly rolled down the sink drain at the hotel. :( MomDenise and Erica had a cleaning job in the morning. When they got back, we went to town. Ate at Bubba-Rita's for lunch (it's like Moe's) then while Erica got fingerprinted, I shopped Fant's. Didn't buy anything!!! Fun to look around though! It's an amazing, old-fashioned general store! Everything from camo and frying pans, to home-decor, luggage, gifts, and clothing! Next, we tried to shop in Bakers on Main, but it didn't work out so well since it was closed. "Sorry people! Your sign wasn't very noticeable!" Took some McD's by to the teachers. So great to see my friend Tawanna who is teaching there this year. Back on the farm, Dad cooked up a delightful hibachi supper of fried rice, steak, shrimp, chicken, and scallops! I would be the size of the farm if we always ate like that!

Tuesday, Nov. 6 - Home Sweet Home!

sweet home florida!

We are back in the Sunshine State! And you know what? I LIKE this place! AR is too much like Kansas! Kinda boring.... flat and not many trees. But I'm glad they can grow rice! Life without sushi would be terrible! We just pulled in this afternoon as we stopped through Sweet Home Alabama on our way back which wasn't our original intention. But it was an awesome diversion! This post isn't the "Detailed Wedding Report." That will come tomorrow. Just wanted to say we are alive, and home, and well! Diesel and Leroy are happy to be with their humans again. Was hard to recognize them, they are blistering white once more!

away to AR!

Here we are in Arkansas! Diesel and Leroy are thrilled to be living the posh life for a few days at the doggie hotel, and we are thrilled to be relaxing at the Hilton after a day of driving, our bellies full of Papa John's pizza..... Mel and I just got back up from turning ourselves into lazy prunes in the hot tub. Tomorrow we want to sleep in, grab breakfast at the nearby Cracker Barrel, do some shopping, tour the area to see Alexs' new home and where Greg and Cam reside, and attend the pre-wedding supper. This is so relaxing after the crazy month we just came through! We are going to live it up, because all too soon, it will be nose back to the grindstone! :) Which is good too.

trying to stay WARM!

It's so cold, even the buses have to wear sweaters!!! This pic just 'warmed' my soul... the coziest bus ever! These past few days have been effectively zapping any last remains of summer! Once again, we didn't really have "Fall" - just dove straight into winter from the scorching heat! Our faithful little plug-in heater is pumping its wee heart out by my feet as a I type... I am planning to stay up late to finish my royal blue dress that I must get done to wear to the pre-wedding supper. This aft-eve, I went nature-watching again in vain; should have stayed home to sew like a good little housewifey! The sweetest lil spotted fawn wandered in front of me...where was its DADDY?!! Even though I didn't get a chance to shoot for real, I did accidentally lob an arrow into the wild blue yonder when I was "practicing" shooting the imaginary king of the forest.... Help! that finger trigger release is touchy! {especially if you have it turned the wrong way!}

I should end this wacky post; my dress is not sewing itself. G'nite peoples!

 

strength for the day....light for the way

I found myself reading Ecclesiastes 9 this morning.....hence this poem!

Here we all are,

Under the sun.

The race is soon over,

Almost before it's begun!

 

Life down here,

Can't be figured out.

Yet I want to live,

To sing, to shout!

 

To live with zeal,

Giving God my all,

When the trump shall sound,

I'll answer its call!

 

To live each day always

Clothed in white...

Ready to go

To the celestial light!

 

Wisdom is better

Than riches or gold.

Live life with joy,

A merry heart cannot be sold.

 

It's not only the rich,

The strong, or the swift,

To whom God has given

His most precious gift.

 

He gives it us!

Poor, foolish man.

To all those who choose

To accept His great plan.

 

written by

SMF

10.26.2012

 



Attention!

A couple updates here....

Anne says for the pumpkin spice latte mix, either double everything except the spices, or cut the spices in half! Mel tried it just as the recipe was, and the flavors of fall literally made you "fall" over!

Furthermore, I no longer recommend going green by making the apple scented homemade fabric softener I posted awhile back. Our clothes are coming out of the wash staticy-clingy and they don't smell nice. "Welcome back to the family, Gain Apple Mango Tango! Your days of banishment are over!" Some things are just not duplicatable! {is that a word?! If it's not, it should be!} What is your favorite flavor of fabric softener? Or should I say, "what is your favorite scent of fabric softener?" Even though my fave is a "foodie" smell, I don't drink it!

Now what should I do with that empty, Mod-Podged houndstooth bottle I laboriously made?....

reflections by the dozen

1. You know you have a super good book when you end up reading it everywhere you go... Like reading at stop signs, in parking lots before and after grabbing groceries etc.

2. Roasted, salted pumpkin seeds taste amazing mixed with Reese Pieces!

3. Hosiery was created by someone who wished to stifle the natural joy of life.

4. I don't actually go bow hunting....I just "nature-watch" with a weapon of deadly destruction on my lap.

5. Dogs love people the way we all should; totally without any scorecards or or prejudices of appearance! And they give kisses without ever expecting any in return.

6. Sometimes when I'm at school, I feel like telling the children, "You is kind, You is smart, You is important." But they haven't read The Help and would call me out on my grammar, so I just tell them they are smart, kind, and important. I do try really hard not to come across as crazy as I truly am.

7. A painting I intend to call "The Fall Tree" is waiting on the easel for some attention. I started it yesterday and it is definitely in the "love me not" stage. Usually somewhere along the way to completion, my paintings suddenly morph into the "love me" phase. Thankfully.

8. A silly little dog figurine called out to me at We Care today. For .$49 he now is mine. I plan to spray paint him a solid color to give him more class. Red, navy, or turquoise???

9. Daniel keeps making me fall in love with his sense of humor....life injected with laughter is irresistible to me! God knew I would need a man who can always make me laugh.

10. Can the deer sense my intentions of spray-painting their antlers hot pink once I have them mounted?! IF I ever get to nab one....

11. Don't bother buying a souvenir mug on vacation. Just wait until you get home and buy it at We Care. Totally siked about the NYC mug I got today!

12. Spray paint is my BFF.

i like the dress!!!

Well, the other day, I found a plump lil package waiting on my red chair for me! My QVC dress had arrived!! Yay! I made myself calmly finish what I was doing before madly opening it up and trying it on. I instantly loved the shade of grey! Point number one in its favor. Didn't love that it is baggier around the waist than how I sew my dresses. Point taken away. And here is a narrative of how my thoughts continued....... "Love, love, love how soft and comfy it feels! Point added again. So awesome that it's long enough! {So many store-bought dresses would be way too short for me.} Add another point. Sorta like the cowl collar. Thankful the neck hole isn't gaping. Another point added. I could wear this dress even if I someday expand. {???} Slap another point on the "keep it" column. It needs a black button or something to dress it up in the front...looks a bit frumpy as is. Take a point away for having to get out needle and thread. It would cost $6.95 to send it back. Add a point in favor to keep it." And so on and so forth! More points to keep it than to return it! When I modeled it for Danl, he commented that he thought it looked a bit odd, but I couldn't get him to actually say "what" it was that made it appear that way! {men! :) lol!} I yanked off the tags and washed it to fortify my decision to keep it. But I am not scrambling to get the second dress ordered in a another color like I thought I might do if I just adored it. It kinda sank home to me that I should learn a lesson from this rash, dress-ordering decision....it could be summed up as follows:

 "If thou knowest how to sew custom fitted clothes for thyself, do so without complaining and be thankful for this talent that has been taught and passed down unto thee." Amen.

punkin' par-tay!!

 

 

 

So exciting to have all y'all that read this blog that are able to make it come over for a pumpkin par-tay tomorrow! I have to run up and get a flu shot first thing in the morning, and then clean the house before I'm ready for you to bring your pumpkin(s) decorating supplies, and some snackish grub, {i am providing pumpkin soup and drinks} around 10ish and we will paint, glue, glitter, and carve away! Wish you all could be here! If only it wasn't for life and so many miles getting in the way.... Don't you love that bug pumpkin at the top of this picture? Kinda "creepy" literally!

dress???

 

 

This dress from QVC is on its way in the mail to me!!! Am I crazy or what?! I need some new dresses desperately, and with working full time {minus one day!} at school the rest of this month, I won't have much time for sewing before we leave for Alex's wedding. SO, I saw the other day that one of my friends had pinned this dress on pinterest and therefore I quickly repinned it, zoomed to its website, and simply BOUGHT it! I think it could look really cute with my hounds tooth scarf and a colorful sweater....I'm telling myself it will most likely be the ugliest bag of a dress ever, and I will promptly return it! But, wouldn't it be perfectly wonderful to open it, love it, and wear it? A dress that I didn't have to put one tiny stitch of effort into......what bliss! I will be reporting the outcome of this rash decision at a later date.

arbys

 

 

 

What a balm for the weary!!! {Thanks, Danl!}

 

The 3rd Annual Yard - Bake Sale is tomorrow and I am already exhausted! Gotta get my 8 pies baked asap.....4 sweet tater, and 4 apple.

See y'all there! :)

i should be in bed.....but I'm NOT!

It appears as if the story of my life this week will be as follows! Drag self out of bed, scarf down some breakfast, spend a rewarding day at school, dash over to Dad's to work in the office, slap over the housework, and hit the hay! Repeat, repeat, repeat!! So don't expect many posts from me, but if I get a chance, I will peck away! Writing is my way to relax.....and of course browsing pinterest is quite therapeutic too! :) We did have a great weekend! Michelle was down from Canada for week; we were privileged to be with her, MomDenise, Erica, and Cam for a bountiful Sunday spread at Kevin and Debbie's. Loved the Starbuck's Cinnamon Dolce coffee! {thanks for giving me some, Michelle!} I was supposed to take a sweet salad, and of course did not have much on hand for a typical fruit one. So I cobbled together something I will call "Caramel Apple Pecan Cheesecake Fluff." Might as well name it something fancy-shmancy! :)

{All the amounts are approximately what I think I dumped in!}

Whip 1 pkg cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until nice and creamy. Gently stir in 2 cups cooked apple pie filling. Fold in 16 oz. Cool Whip, then add 1 cup toasted pecans. Layer in pretty bowl with 1/4 cup of caramel ice cream topping dribbled between layers. Chill thoroughly. Then stuff your face!!!
{This "salad" is basically a dessert, but as we Mennonites love to do, we'll just call it a salad, and have dessert and eat it too!}

Fall Day With Friends and Possible Date for Pumpkin Party?

 

 Will Wednesday, October 17, 2012 suit y'all for the Pumpkin Decorating Party???

 

I sure hope so, because I think that will be the only day possible for me to host it since I am going to be working at school for a month starting Monday. (Miss Smith is going to south FL to get her new guide dog.) Please comment and let me know if this will work for you! Come around 10 am, armed with your pumpkin or pumpkins, decorating supplies for your choice of design, (we can share and use each others extra supplies etc. too!) and something lunchy-brunchy, sweet or salty! Drinks will be provided.

 

Slab Apple Pie!!! http://www.kingarthurflour.com/blog/2010/09/06/would-a-pie-by-any-other-name-taste-as-sweet-yes-if-its-apple-slab/ This pic is makin' my heart go pitter-patter! So to conquer my overexcited pulse, I am fixing to get in the kitchen and make this delectable dessert to take to our annual Fall Day with Friends. My hubby and some others always go dove hunting together, so we girls like to spend the afternoon  doing something creative and crafty. :) A little bird told me that Homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes may be in the works for an afternoon slurpy.....

 

Pumpkin Spice Latte (Vegan, Gluten Free)

1. Make coffee (a pot, a cup, in whatever fashion and however you prefer making your coffee. The stronger the better)

2. Make Pumpkin Milk

1 c milk (I used almond milk but use any kind you want from half and half to rice milk)

1/4 heaping cup pumpkin puree (more if you really love pumpkin)

2 tsp pumpkin pie spice blend, or to taste

1 tsp cinnamon, or to taste

1 tsp vanilla extract

sweetener of choice, to taste (I suggest 2 tbsp agave or 2 tbsp brown sugar or a pinch of stevia to taste; or try honey, maple syrup, etc. to taste)

Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg, ginger, garam masala, cardamom, or other warming spices to taste

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk well by hand or blend all ingredients using a Vita or blender

Optional: Warm the finished pumpkin milk mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop (I do a quick nuke of about 1 minute)

3. Pour 1 c of brewed coffee into a mug and pour half the pumpkin milk mixture over the top of the coffee and enjoy. (Optional: Finish by garnishing with real whipped cream/whipped topping such as CoolWhip or TruWhip; and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice/cinnamon on top)

The other half of the pumpkin milk mixture is for the refill you know you will want. If you truly don’t want a refill, refrigerate it for up to a few days and use for your next latte, in a smoothie, or drink it as is. As long as you’re dirtying dishes, I always make a little extra for refills or for later.

Notes:

The spices will not “blend” or entirely dissolve. This is to be expected and normal. If this bothers you, this may not the recipe for you and you may want to experiment with other recipes or techniques.

All spices and seasonings are to taste; in this case, mine. If you want to reduce the spices (or increase them), obviously adjust everything according to your own taste preferences. Some people may find the amounts I used a bit strong, but I like robust flavors.

pining for pumpkins

 

 

I wish I had the lil pumpkins to make this fall centerpiece today.... classic and easy! But since I don't have them handy, and my to-do list is nearly a mile long, I shall refrain from browsing pinterest any longer, and get my tail in gear! Have a happy fallish day, friends!

right now

Outside my window... a bright, sunshiny day that is calling for me to spend it at the beach! (very wishful thinking!!)

I am thinking... that I MUST get the yard/bake sale ad listed in the newspaper, on northescambia.com, and on craigslist ASAP!

I am thankful... for the 5 hours of sleep I got last night, or ere..shall we say this morning?!

In the kitchen... piles and piles of nasty, greasy, grimy dishes and a newly reorganized pantry! :)

I am wearing... ummmm...grungy but comfy pjs!

I am creating... a children's book that is coming along SO S-L-O-W-L-Y!! (I wish I could be my own illustrator, but my pics just don't cut it!)

I am going... crazy! (shall we meet for coffee once we all arrive?!) 

I am reading... Same Kind of Different As Me,(borrowed from a friend) A Lucky Child, (overdue library book) Life to the Max (on my Nook)

I am hoping... to get this place cleaned up before I have to leave to get my shots this aft.

I am looking forward to...having a Pumpkin Decorating Party with friends and fam. :) 

I am learning...to trust God with the future.

Around the house...lots of guns, fabric piles waiting to morph into dresses, general clutter and shoes.

One of my favourite things... the spindly, wobbly little stand I rescued from a thrift store for $.25 and painted turquoise. it now sits outside on the porch by the bench so I have a place to rest my coffee and breakfast. :)