When God blesses in unique ways

I was going to write a pantry post this evening but I had something so neat happen today, I had to share it (I'll write the pantry post tomorrow... God willing and the creek don't rise!).

It never ever ceases to amaze me how God meets needs in His time. I was sharing with a friend how I had goosebumps because of something that happened today. It all happened because I had some unexpected money come in...

On the way to the grocery store, I had this feeling to stop by the Mission Thrift Shop. I haven't been going to thrift stores or garage sales or anything because of a severely limited budget. So... I haven't been at this thrift store in awhile.

Now, another thing you should know is I had been "telling God" that I'd love to find more old Victoria magazines, just like I had found some on the free rack at the library last year. Are you ahead of me, yet? There... on the shelves where the Mission Thrift Store keeps donated magazines... were YEARS worth of old Victoria magazines for a dime a piece (a price I could afford!).

As I told my friend, you have to think of the fact that God would lead someone to donate their old magazines to the Mission store just at the time to be put on the shelf when I actually had extra money. How many women still have Victoria magazines from the late 1980s and early 1990s?

So often we go through difficult times in this world but then there are those amazing instances where something happens which can only be a "God thing". There is just no other way the circumstances can come together without Divine intervention. It always shows me I'm on His path... this isn't Heaven, yet... but He will make Himself known.

I am feeling much better but still weak enough that chicken soup sounds good. I treated myself to the luxury of a rotisserie chicken at the grocery store. It is now simmering away to become chicken noodle soup. The temperatures have cooled enough to make soup once again comfort food.

I've given up on the downstairs maids so I must go check to see if it is time to add noodles. The house is ready for hubby's return and I have a feeling chicken soup will sound good for him, too. :)

Ponderings on household maintenance

A dear friend stopped by this morning to bring spices over that she is not packing for a move. She and her husband are in the midst of whirlwind changes in their life, just as their last child graduated from college and got married... they are walking through an open door "back" to Europe. (He is British, she an American but they have lived overseas much of their married life.)

It's just amazing how everything they have been through in their lives have led to this moment to work with a small university in a formerly war torn country and brings with it an opportunity to minister in a country which is mostly Muslim. They had planned to return to Sierra Leone at this time in life but God had other plans.

She was offered a job for which she has experience but she turned it down... both she and her husband deciding she will be of much more value being available to show hospitality both to students and others in the community. (She has decided to take her old "Biscuit Tin" with her to have something to offer with tea when someone stops by.)

I will miss them very much. We both shed tears as we hugged at the door of my home, talking about how she has been there at times I needed her (like when I was packing a four bedroom Colonial house to move to Detroit... very ill with what we learned was diabetes).

Anyway, she and I were talking about their house selling quickly to open the way for their departure. I was telling her about another home I knew which is in horrible shape even though those who live there should know better... I mean filthy and horrible condition. They couldn't sell it now until it went through a complete remodeling job.

She reminded me both of the parents work full time and I know they spend most of their evenings away from home, too. There is no one in the family who has seen the importance of housework... both small and large throughout the years. When we first met the family, the house was known as always being messy and cluttered... not very clean both inside or out. Many years later, the deterioration is quite evident.

I am reminded of Edith Schaeffer's section of one of her books where she talks about the necessity of someone caring about the home (as she said, sometimes it can be the husband when the wife is going through a very busy season and he has more time).

The timing of our conversation was interesting to me as I had just spent the past week doing little maintenance and organization projects. I don't have the energy to do a huge project so I must work with many small projects spread out over time. Just this morning I took the broom to the walls and ceilings of a few rooms as I noticed an amazing amount of spiderwebs having popped up this week (which makes me wonder where all those spiders are). It took five minutes since it was caught early.

Stephanie teased me about washing dishes so often... okay, so she'd put a glass down and it was washed... but I shared with her that is the way I keep the kitchen clean enough to want to cook and bake in. I've found in the years I've lived with no dishwasher that as long as I soak the dishes in hot, soapy water for about half an hour I can quickly wash them and let them dry in the drainer... especially in the morning and evening and more if I'm doing much baking.

My sink is too small and there is very little counter space to let them stack up for one big dish washing... and I know if I entered the kitchen where it was very cluttered I wouldn't want to spend any time there.

Of course, I'm not talking about keeping the house so pristine no one can be creative or feel comfortable. I've been in my friend's house many times (the one who was here this morning) and while it is clean and well maintained (and very cute), it was obviously lived in... especially when their daughters were home. :)

I thought of that when I saw the evidence of Christopher's being back home this weekend... a sink full of glasses (he has this thing against using the same glass twice, even if he's immediately pouring another glass of milk!) and his computer and textbooks being all over the family room table this morning. That kind of clutter shows me another person lives here.

No... what I'm talking about is the necessity for keeping the house clean and well maintained as life is being lived (and the outside, too, of course). One can't enjoy a beautiful bouquet of flowers on the table when the dirty breakfast dishes are still sitting there hours later or the walls are covered with dirt.

We had many, many years when we both worked outside the home but I'm very thankful that my husband cared enough about maintenance that we both made time to clean and organize. We had a couple rental houses that were in better condition when we left than when we moved in. Like Edith Schaeffer also said in her books, a sign that Christians dwell in a home should be that is is clean and beautiful. (Hmmm... can you tell who was my foremost mentor in homemaking?)

Now I must practice what I preach. Hubby is due home this evening and I need to finish the small amount of work necessary to finish organizing the office. The air is much less humid today so I will spend a little time in the garage decluttering. Unfortunately, it tends to get out of hand each winter (when I don't do the necessary maintenance in cold weather).

It reminds me of the old saying "a stitch in time saves nine". Regular maintenance is so much easier to handle and quite often saves money, too. I'll remember that when I walk out in the garage later today... sigh.

Picture: Attractive Housewife: allposters.com

Sunday Afternoon Tea

I loved to read the comments in the last post (Carp Diem). They were wonderful.

I should call this Sunday Evening Tea. I'm still moving at a slow pace. :)

Hubby called this morning from the mountains of North Carolina. He wishes I was there with him to share the fantastic vacation he has had.

I was invited but I would much rather stay here and recover from the "crud" going around... not that I wanted to attend a reunion of war vets (have you ever heard two or more Vets get together and talk... and talk... and talk?) I'm sure they have enjoyed each others' company.

The Smoky Mountains are one of my all time favorite places (we stayed in Asheville on our honeymoon) but I wouldn't have enjoyed the trip.

The reunion is at his friend's summer home... a million dollar cabin (in a gated community) and his friends are paying all his expenses... no strings attached. One of their neighbors is a NASCAR star. As I told my husband, now that is true Southern Royalty!

I never cease to be amazed how God provides an oasis in the desert and in completely unexpected ways. God truly does "set a table before us in the presence of our enemies". This reunion has been a desire of his heart since the 1980s and to add such beauty and luxury... well, that was an unexpected treasure.

Life is difficult for many people right now and even those who live in circumstances which haven't changed face uncertainty in the future. However, such is not uncommon to life in the past. All we have to think of is the generation before us going the Great Depression or WWII.

I know when one is going through unbelievable hardship, it would be easy to become annoyed with the suggestion that serving tea and cookies in the afternoon on pretty dishes (with perhaps strawberry milk for the little ones in their teacup) or making homemade pizza for the family to eat while watching a favorite DVD will make a huge difference... but it does.

There must be at least one person who gathers strength each morning to meet the day, even if it "just" reading a Psalm or a chapter of an inspiring book by a gifted Christian teacher. (Although, it would help so much more to make that decision for indepth times of study and worship.) I have found when in the midst of uncertain circumstances, it seems I can hear that Still Small Voice better than usual.

I love to read books from the Great Depression or those set during times of war about men and women who make a difference in the lives of their friends and families because of their ability to create beauty and serenity in difficult situations.

While there were definitely days when one wondered if they would survive the intense difficulties, often when they have passed through the trials of war or poverty (or both) they looked back and knew there were good days because of family and friends.

Now I must brew a cup of tea and prop my feet up to give full attention to a PBS nature show. Christopher is home for the evening, studying in the family room. It is like old times. :)

To Carpe Diem or not to Carpe Diem

I love the phrase Carpe Diem... seize the day! Wikipedia says the poet Horace (who made it famous in his poem) used it as... "enjoy, make use of, seize". As one who feels time has been fast forwarded, I like that definition.

I am enjoying being stuck at home due to absolutely no money. No, really (which is probably why I love reading Laine's Letters so much... she had to do the same). I have a letter sitting on the breakfront ready to be sent but I don't have the money for a stamp.

Now, I'm not telling you that to feel sorry for me. I'm really fine as I am surrounded by beautiful nature, my diet is limited but healthy, and my son put gas in the car for me when he received his paycheck. He asked me to help pick out a bouquet of roses for his friend he's taking to the homeschool prom this evening and told me to buy a few groceries at the same time. He even let me buy a Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi and a pint of half-n-half.

Hehehe, I found a bouquet of gorgeous pink roses in a display which were half the price of similar roses in the refrigerator display. We came home and I "tweaked" the bouquet to make them look quite uptown. Doing things the frugal way can be fun.

It all becomes about attitude... if I allowed myself to get upset that all my favorite garage sales have now come and gone without me even having a dollar to spend... then I'd be ungrateful for everything I have. God has never failed to provide everything I needed, even if life was uncomfortable now and then.

It's all about seizing what is good about the day we live and corralling our expectations...

My New Mexican friend was telling me recently about a couple they knew who were just thrown out of their third rental house in a row for not paying rent. They had called to see if she and her husband could take their horses for awhile (the answer was no). What amazes her is the lifestyle this couple expects as both work but live far beyond what reality should be for their situation. They do not pay their rent but they have a brand new truck, horses, and other luxuries. Carpe Diem is good when within our means.

But then there are those who are just the opposite... my father-in-law had a Depression mentality and went far beyond being frugal. Even though they had plenty of money in savings and absolutely no debt outside of their mortgage, they rarely did anything to make beautiful memories. The time our children are at home is fleeting, one honestly does look back when the youngest turns eighteen and wonders where the years went.

My husband and his siblings have few good memories of growing up, even though they had a stable home life in a pleasant middle class neighborhood. When my father-in-law died, he had plenty of money in the bank but his children didn't shed tears at his funeral. I did, which shocked everyone as he hadn't treated me well... I guess having married into the family I "saw" him differently.

Don't fear the future. If you have an income and are financially stable... Carpe Diem! Who knows what next year will bring? Well, we do know the family will not be at these ages. Of course, I'm not talking about going into debt or spending the mortgage payment to go have fun. Don't buy a brand new truck and horses if you can't pay the rent.

No... but if you have a little "extra"... make some memories. I didn't have my father with me very long. His work was seasonal and he knew he'd be out of a job each winter. But I have never had to go into counseling due to my father for in the short ten years we had together he never showed fear about what life would bring.... instead he planted flowers, made furniture, cooked meals when Mom worked late, caused me to laugh, cried when Patsy Cline died (and I cry when I hear her music), made it impossible for me to see cows or horses when driving on a highway without remembering how excited he became when viewing animals, and planted those seeds I'd need later in life... our ability to enjoy life is not dependent on our bank balance.

Be careful... be frugal where necessary... become more self sufficient... try your best to stay away from debt... fill your recipe box with delicious frugal recipes... re-read favorite books... watch uplifting and warm hearted movies... hug your furry friends... sip tea from a beautiful English tea cup... organize your pictures while remembering pleasant days... sit on your deck or porch and watch the sun come up while enjoying the morning cup of coffee... surprise the family with a chocolate cake for no reason whatsoever... bake bread and serve it warm with real butter... live life... teach your children how the good life can be enjoyed on a budget.

Don't be afraid of the future.

Carpe Diem. Your children will thank you.

Picture: Sent to me in an e-mail by a dear friend a couple years ago to cheer me up. It worked.

A little more about Laine's Letters

What a nice coincidence that Laine sent out a new e-mail the same day I had posted about her again. I noticed on the bottom of her e-mail there is a link where you can go (not on her website) to read her recent letters.

This is the Group List page and you can find it here... here. Hope that helps those of you who have asked about her recent letters... what timing! (Her website does not contain letters sent out after about mid-2007). Now, no person is perfect and I haven't found anyone I agree with completely.... even my younger self... but she truly is a Proverbs 31 woman.

I took one of the file folders with her "Letters" in it to the family room in late afternoon yesterday. How good it was to once again glean the wisdom she offers about living the frugal life (a necessity for them, too). I couldn't even finish the one file folder (and I have THREE) but I set aside a few which contained good recipes and food ideas.

I get amused when I watch a Food Channel show where they are offering frugal recipes. Recently the new program which is suppose to be all about saving money in the kitchen made a dinner for just under $20.00 for four people (and other menus were even higher). Frugal for them... not frugal for my family. If you want really good recipes that are delicious and low cost, then check the Recipes section of Laine's Letters and read through her "In My Home" letters... here at her website.

I'll continue reading through them and write down some menu ideas. When I was still seeing a specialist, I had a discussion with her about diabetic diets on a really, really small budget. Now, I'm certain she doesn't have to worry about budgeting (being the most well known endocrinologist in the region) but she did have experience with patients on a budget.

She suggested oatmeal, beans and legumes (like lentils), and finding veggies & fruits in season.

My favorite recipe for lentil salad is... here.

I hope you enjoyed the links yesterday. Some were just fun and others helped us create and be more reflective. I'm going back to Holy Experience again today just to read and reflect and get good ideas. :)

A few blog suggestions while I escape the heat

It is really, really hot here. We had been in a cold and wet pattern all spring and then around the first day of summer it flipped to hot and humid. Very hot with the humidity making it feel like it is over 100. We're trying to keep energy costs down as much as possible so I've kept the blinds in the family room closed until the sun moves to the other side of the house in the afternoon. Once it starts to feel hotter, I turn the ceiling fan in the family room to high and take all my work into that room. Living at the edge of a forest helps a lot, too. :)

The oven is used only in the morning as much as possible. Yesterday I did a little baking early and today I have the last two packages of split chicken breasts from the freezer baking (I didn't even preheat the oven to keep the room cooler). They will be cooked about 3/4ths the way through and then grilled for dinner later today.

I got out early this morning to water the deck plants and take the garden hose to the raised bed veggies. I also took the time to do some essential pruning of the bush and plants around the air conditioner. (A job I usually do before they get this out of hand but I really didn't want to get out in all that rain.) The area behind the AC has been left for my husband. While I have never seen a snake in our yard, there is always that possibility (shiver)...

While I had the long pruning shears out, I did a touch up to one of the hedges and walked out to the county road to cut out the poison ivy growing up around the mailboxes. I'm immune to it but I doubt the same is true for my two neighbors. :)

So... the rest of today will be spent tweaking the office without disturbing hubby's "stuff", reading, and working some on my scrapbook journal as a creative outlet. (Except for my files and occasionally using that computer, the office is my husband's sanctuary, the one little part of the world where he feels in control.)

To answer one of the questions in Comments... Laine stopped writing weekly (more like a couple times a month) and now only writes updates now and then. She explained a couple years ago that she had some health challenges which eventually required surgery and she had major changes in her life with her older sons joining the Marines.

To be honest, I've also wondered if she didn't become tired of the snarky e-mails which often came her way. I'd still sign up for her e-mails for those times she writes these days. However, her archives are worth spending time reading and printing. They are divided into two sections (just as her letters were) and she has a section of the best frugal recipes. Her website is listed with the links on the sidebar.

I've been trying to catch up on some favorite blogs while staying out of the heat. Here are some great sites to visit right now...

Stop by and say congratulations to Kimberly . They have finally been cleared of those hostile charges brought against them when they took their little boy to the emergency room. Not only are they cleared but the charges were officially seen as unfounded. We are thrilled for this answer to prayer.

One of my favorite decorating blogs is Chez Fifi's... where I can let go of my inner French. I love her work, which is published in various magazines, including Romantic Country. My personal style is different than hers for the most part but I always find good ideas there.

Anyhoo... you have just got to pour a cup of tea and read about her experiences as she was traveling recently... especially the part about the furry creature who had crawled into her automobile without her knowing it... not to mention her Perils of Pauline travel schedule the same week. Check out Fifi here.

I don't remember the last time a blog post made me laugh as much as this one over at The Pioneer Woman. Ree is always funny but this was over the top hilarious.

Ann at Holy Experience is one of the best writers I've ever read whether in the form of books or blogs.... she's been sharing again about her journaling (including her form of what is often called scrapbook journaling... which was the inspiration I needed to pull out my journal again). You can read her posts about journaling here... scroll through all of them... sigh.... smile... and be inspired.

Last but certainly not least... Stephanie posted on her blog last week what she learned about decorating and loving your own home while on vacation. We talked a little about this on the phone. I know she can't post very often but I do enjoy when she does. She can be found here on the world wide web. :)

Now, these should keep you in the air conditioning for awhile.

The project I've been putting off...

Thank you for the very sweet comments. It's been a tough couple of weeks and you all are good medicine. :)

For Father's Day this year, I gave my husband what he needs most (that doesn't cost money)... doing my part to help organize the office.

I have a small file box in which I keep daily files I use quite often (I can write more about it later). However, I have lots of files in a drawer of the "big" file cabinet in the office. I figure I can cut them down once more, perhaps by 25%. That is just enough space to file overflow papers from the rest of the office (hubby hates clutter but the one place in his life where he holds on to absolutely everything... papers).

I have collected articles since I was first married about all aspects of homemaking and Christian living (mainly interests to women), children, creativity, gardening, decorating, Holidays, homeschooling, etc. I went through them a couple years ago but this time I need to tackle the homeschool files, as well as further sifting of old magazine clips and articles.

That is why I find myself right now with stacks of files, papers, and articles spread out on the family room floor. Of all my household duties, this is the part I dislike the most. I enjoy keeping the files... I do not love the sorting and filing. Especially going through them to discard what I don't want and/or need.

It was interesting when I went through my decorating pictures and articles the last time to see how my tastes have changed through the years. The same style I loved in the 80s and 90s is (for the most part) not at all what I like today. The only continuity through the years have been the use of greens and reds of various hues, lots of houseplants (or silk plants in high places), and an unexplainable passion for china of all kinds... the dishes, not the country.

A set of files I'd set up the last time were folders for recipes to land once they had been printed from the computer. I had files titled "Recipe Articles" and "Recipe Clippings" for magazines but I needed files for the printouts. Since I had them set up already, this time I just had to file what I'd printed out and want to keep for reference (but don't plan to try this summer).

The unexpected byproduct of this gift is finding articles I'd completely forgotten about. A handful of them have been set aside for later reading. Also, I have years worth of Laine's Letters which were printed out when she sent them and/or printed from the archives on her website (link on the sidebar). I think I'm going to 3-hole punch those letters and put them in a binder. I'll definitely be re-reading some of them.

I know this gift is one that is very much appreciated.

Picture: John Bull; allposters.com

Would I stand firm for my beliefs?

I know it seems funny but, yes... my Sunday Afternoon Tea posts do bring about the need for some to stop reading what I write. I completely understand... I did use to pay attention to numbers but after three years I've learned people come and go and there is a core group of "friends", some whom I've come to know their names and others who are still anonymous. VPPs... Very Precious People. :)

I slept in quite late this morning and went through three cups of coffee to wake up. That is proof last night must be the final Nyquil night. The sound sleep has been worth it all. One of my all time favorite movies was on TV all morning so I curled up for a little more sofa time watching Exodus as my head became less fuzzy... it is a long movie.

The theme from Exodus has been second on my spring-summer Play List for awhile. The book was one of the first placed on Stephanie's "Summer Reading List" in her early teens when we lived in Iowa and it has long been one of my favorites. Oh yes, I know it is a romanticized version of the re-birth of the nation of Israel in the 1940s but it had a profound impact on me... it always does. It makes me think.

Do I care so much about anything that I would give my life to a cause? I'm not talking about protecting my children as a mother bear stands watch over her cubs. Also... even though I've been very involved in causes in the past, I have never had to give up more than time and a little convenience to stand for what I believe.

We have seen a little persecution here and there... especially as homeschoolers. Mostly the usual rolled eyes, smirks, and pitiful glances from those who think we are daft. Once in awhile, there is a comment which usually begins "How can someone educated believe...".

Just recently we again had to stand against the elitism of the University to prove an education has taken place through both homeschooling and two years of classes at a (gasp) community college. Each time Christopher scores well on one of their tests, I have very un-Christian thoughts and I must repent all over again. :)

However... I've never had to go to war for what I believed. My life has never been in danger for my beliefs. I've never had to give up freedom for my faith. Prison has not been the result of my Christianity as it is in other nations. Walking the path Christ has set before me has never caused me to give up a meal...

Watching Exodus from the comfort of an air conditioned house... viewing the scenes in Iran as dinner is being prepared in the Crock Pot... wondering about the life of Believers in North Korea or Saudi Arabia... how would I compare?

Perhaps an unexpected benefit of homeschooling has been the experience of a little persecution here and there... as one who has already gone upstream from the norms of society and would certainly qualify for the Department of Homeland Security's "fringe group" list... would I be willing to give up all to live what I believe?

It is worth thinking of as I watch an old movie as well as new videos taken on cell phones. As an American, would I risk my life for my vote to count? As a Christian... would I vote according to my Statement of Faith or my checkbook? Would I give up everything? Would my children... my grandchildren? Will there come a time a line will be drawn in the sand in this country?

Thankfully today we can ponder such questions as we garden... and cook... and bake... and are free to educate our children at home and attend the place of worship we choose.

Wow, there is a world out there

I'm blinking my eyes and looking out at sunshine (which has been a rare sight this spring). I think I'm beginning to feel human again. A cough remains and even more fatigue than usual (Steph tells me that hangs on for awhile) but I'm off the sofa. The flowers on the deck actually got some much needed attention early this morning.

After not sleeping well for awhile with the coughing waking me up, I pulled out the Big Guns... Nyquil! Christopher had some in the medicine cabinet, left over from a bad cold over the winter. I have to be careful with Nyquil and not take it more than two or three nights but it certainly helped this time. I think some sunshine will be a good thing, too.

I was very happy to have a few cans of Progresso soup put back in case one of us was sick. Even canned chicken and noodle soup is good when one isn't feeling well. :)

I have a couple pantry posts running through my head... it has been very good having to eat out of the pantry and the freezer as it reminds me of suggestions to write about.

There are also pictures to be taken of the garden~ Slowly but surely normal is returning.

By the way, I think this is the first time I've gone through a weekend without losing readers from the "Follower"s list. I must have not written anything in Sunday Afternoon Tea to annoy anyone this week. :)

Summer Reading Challenge over at Seasonal Soundings

I used to always take part in all the Reading Challenges at Seasonal Soundings, one of my favorite book blogs.

I'm still on my "summer of all things lovely" book list but I encourage you to join, it is lots of fun! I think there is still time.

I have been very lax at reading many blogs this busy spring. I'm catching up while doing sofa time.

Just mosey on over... here.

Sunday Afternoon Tea

Come join me for a cup of tea out on the deck. We'll go out early this morning before the heat and humidity sets in and share peppermint tea. I may set apart just a wee bit so my germs don't reach out and touch...

I've been pondering while on the sofa these past few days, thinking of the way life is and the way most of us want life to be. Obviously the temporary setback of illness has affected my thoughts but so has watching the news while laying on the sofa. It seems there are so many sad and worried people today.

Most in the world have no anchor to sustain them and no map to provide an idea of where they are going or where they have been. They have been taught the Words in the Bible mean nothing in today's world and there is no Due North. They don't understand those who find hope and peace in the words of a Book.

We all have within us a sense of longing. We look at the beauty in our gardens and wonder at the day when there will be no weeds or disease. We read of places we would love to visit, those which seem especially dear even though we have never been there... and wonder what life would be like if we were not finite beings held down by the physics of space and time. Somehow sensing a longing for another Place.

Those of us who have lived a number of years wake up each morning to another ache and pain and wish for health while another thinks of one who has passed on and longs for their face across the breakfast table. Yet, another couple have a desire for a full nursery while they continue to be a family of two.

Father's Day always brings memories of Dad and the knowledge (having been told by others) that I'm very much like him. I sometimes wonder what life would have been like if my father had not passed away so young, or if my first child had lived. Longings of what might have been but peace on the road which had been chosen for I believe the Words.

Only those who read and believe the Book understand the longings. He says we have Eternity in our hearts. He knows we long for the perfection lost in Eden. He talked about those who walked through life having never received the promise on this side... searching for the City whose builder and architect is God.

It is not unusual for us to long for a life more perfect or a road not taken. It isn't wrong for us to look back and grieve our losses. Where we get into trouble is when longing turns to coveting and grief becomes bitterness.

I truly believe within us God is leading and guiding as we walk the path He has set before us. We just have to listen and read His Words to understand why we think the way we do... and why He has set eternity in our hearts.

Sniffing, sneezing, and coughing... ugh

I am miserable. There is no other way to describe it... misery.

Along with the coughing and headache, I find it hard to talk. Stephanie tells me it is their germs I caught. That helps a little, knowing it is the same cough Faith had and she's so cute. :)

I've so enjoyed re-reading W. Phillip Keller's book called Strength of Soul: The Sacred Use of Time. That is, once I remembered the "safe place" I had put it before the kids came. If I had to take ten books to a desert island, this would be included. (Hmmm.... now there is an idea for a post.)

We all have authors who speak to us more clearly than others, perhaps it is just their style or how they view life... whatever it is, Keller is one of mine.

I managed to prepare the patio and porch for storms and stake the cherry tomato plant in the garden (everything else was safely staked already). We had wicked weather off and on yesterday and last night. This was the largest tornado outbreak this year and came too close for comfort.

I need to return to the sofa. Where are those downstairs maids?

So cute

I had to post a few picture of cute things in my life right now.


This teapot was a thrift store find (last year perhaps?). I'd planned a solitaire tea time on the deck but rain moved in...


Jean surprised me with this teapot she found at Goodwill when she and Bonnie were out "thrifting" together. It is an electric teapot and I've already used it to heat water a couple of times. The plug-in section is on the back. :)


Last... but certainly not least at all... is there anything cuter than a two year old boy while he still has his pudgy-ness? Matthew also has the best personality!

I miss all of them. :)

Because you asked about Christopher...

Uncle Christopher with Elisabeth
(well, you can see the top of her head here).

Thank you for the nice comments about our deck. The young family who lived here before us built the deck and the French doors leading out to it. It adds so much living space in nice weather. I am so glad I spent the money to plant flowers on the deck again this year. Now they need some sunshine, which has been rare in our part of the country this spring. Too much rain has not been great for them or my tomato plants.

Christopher is finally feeling completely recovered from his surgery. He worked hard his last semester at the community college to make up nearly two weeks of lost classes. He ended up with a 3.9 out of 4, enough to get accepted into the School of Science at the University (which has become very difficult for acceptance).

He's taking one of the "flunk out" Calculus classes this summer so he can concentrate on it alone with no other homework. His professor told them they would be in class for two hours and studying at least two or three hours every day... so far he has found that to be true.

Yes, we are in a semi empty nest mode. Christopher is living with our friends "in town" so he could take mass transit to work and the University. I've picked him up in the morning for work a few times (his class is in the afternoon, within minutes of walking from the bookstore) when I was going to be in town, anyway.

I felt really bad this morning as we were having heavy thunderstorms go through the area and I had to tell him I couldn't take the car out... no gas... hopefully enough to make it to the gas station when we can afford gas again. For now the car is parked. I'm not complaining, that is just how life is at the moment.

Social Security incomes do not mix well with rising costs and no insurance. I thought my doctor's office had made a mistake on how much they charged for the last visit (as I do get a 25% reduction since it is the County Clinic). No... I'm now paying $110.00 for each five or ten minute visit. That's up from $59.00 I paid last year (it is adjusted yearly and this was the first visit since they readjusted).

Such is life... However, we had a nice salad from our own garden lettuce and venison steak (still in the freezer from venison given to us last fall) for dinner last night. I used the grill for the first time with the venison. It turned out great and I didn't blow up the house or anything.

Anyhoo, I was very concerned about Christopher but he called about an hour later to let me know he was wet but fine. Instead of waiting for the bus, he biked to work through the rain and lightening.

Good thing I had been praying. He is learning it is better not to get upset when the circumstances are not comfortable. One thing that can go out the window when dealing with "lack" is convenience. :)

Those of you who have read my blog for awhile know our Jewish friends (Sheila... of my Sheila and Suzie lunch dates). That is where he is now living since they had an empty bedroom. Three of their boys are away at Universities and their fourth (one of the twins who is one of C.'s best friends) lives at home while attending the local University. It is his bike my son borrowed.

Sheila and her hubby have been in Europe and China since January. He's there on sabbatical, as he is teaching overseas this semester. They will be back before the beginning of the fall semester when he will return to teaching and research here. I think it is a big deal to drive to the City but they have been all over the world.

Christopher's ill health and surgery had a positive affect, he has been working out and is eating a healthier diet. He is buying his own groceries this summer so he's also learning how to eat well on a small budget. That is good experience, too!

The deck in mid-June

Everyone needs a place to get away from it all. I am especially able to relax when surrounded by flowers and trees.

Here are pictures of where I can go in early morning. As the heat and mosquitoes return, mid-day and evening are not always possible but morning is sweet.




Below are closeups of the two ivy geraniums I planted this year. I've never grown these before but I've long admired them in European window boxes.

I saw them at the nursery in early May the same week I saw a garden show where they were mentioned on TV. They are beautiful and just beginning to fall over the side of the containers.

This one is called Red Peppermint.

This is called Butterfly.

They will (hopefully) continue to grow lush and beautiful throughout the summer.


I'm including the picture of the grill to show our New England family we finally got it assembled. I think one should always be concerned when the words "Easy Assembly" are on the box. :)

I am so thrilled with the grill. So often God has given gifts that I've only thought of and never actually prayed for... this was one of them.

Bliss and the raspy voice

This arrived in the mail yesterday. Beautiful! I especially loved the pictures of Mary Jane's Farm. Phyllis Hoffman is obviously making every attempt to make the new Victoria as beautiful as the old. However, is it just me or do others dislike the new flimsy paper so many magazines are being printed on these days?

I awoke this morning hardly able to talk and my voice is still raspy. This "allergy thing" continues and I expect the wet weather isn't helping. After running a quick errand this morning, I sent my husband on his way to continue other errands alone. I had to wash some dishes and do a couple loads of laundry before ending up on the sofa but it certainly felt good when my head hit the pillow. This stuff is yucky.

I received a lovely letter from a dear friend in New Mexico today, who described the dust storms they were experiencing. Kinda' made the rain seem not so bad. She has two rattlesnakes in her yard which they still can't locate to kill... makes the thought of Bigfoot in the forest not too bad, either. The last time she called, she talked about finding a black widow spider that week. I told her I'll take my chances with the wasps on the deck. You couldn't pay me to live in the New Mexican desert.

I'll chat more about books read and tea sipped soon. Also all about Christopher's move into town as he has begun a calculus class at the University.

My mini vacation will start when hubby leaves for North Carolina. I hope I'm feeling better by then. :)

Some favorite cooking and gardening books

I must admit, I wasn't happy to find I was having company over the weekend. Allergy symptoms have been causing swollen and itchy eyes, a sore throat, and stuffy head. What I really wanted to do was curl up on the sofa and read for a week... with the downstairs maids bringing me tea and scones.

However, I've have had a lovely time with family as Jean spent her first night and Saturday morning at our place before leaving to stay with my other sister. I've had time to rest as well as enjoy more family time. She flies back to Tampa on Tuesday. She's enjoying this trip a lot more then when she froze her giblets in October (pretty leaves are not worth the cold... or so says someone acclimated to Florida). I spent a couple days last week and Saturday "reading" some books not on my "Summer of All Things Lovely" list but still favorites... and lovely.

I pulled the cookbook Hollyhocks & Radishes: Mrs. Chard's Almanac Cookbook off the shelf. It is one of those cookbooks with great recipes and fun to read letters at the beginning of each chapter about growing a garden in northern Michigan. The recipes are from a friend of the author who owns a farm stand. Many of them come from customers but all had become favorites.

This book, along with The Victory Garden Cookbook (which is out of print and unfortunately expensive used on Amazon) are where I look when the seasonal fruits and veggies become inexpensive. I found it for Stephanie earlier in the year at the library's used book room ($2.00) so keep an eye out... it's worth it!

One of my first Amazon purchases was Marge Clark's The Best of Thymes. Actually, I started on Amazon looking for used Brambly Hedge books as soon as I found out a little granddaughter had been born. That same girl recently took home my Betty Crocker Cookies cookbook and two years worth of Tea Time magazines so I think she'd like Marge (eventually).

The Best of Thymes is a cookbook I've gone back to often. Marge was known not only as a wonderful cook but a master herb gardener. This book is divided into three sections, the longest is a series of chapters with each representing a popular herb and many recipes using each herb; the second section is all about herbal oils and vinegars, and the third contains her favorite delicious recipes which do not use herbs.

My all time favorite Holiday cookbook is by Marge, too. It is called Christmas Thyme at Oak Hill Farm, a combination of yummy recipes and crafts... all with the most beautiful pictures of Christmas at Marge's "elegant country" farmhouse. This was a Christmas present from my dear friend, BB (Belinda's nickname is Busy Bee and my family shortened it to BB) who lives in Texas. I will always be grateful to her for this book.

Marge Clark wrote a third book, too, but I don't own it. Unfortunately, she was killed in a car accident a few years ago and her books are harder to find but worth looking for.

I perused Victoria's The Heart of England and The Heart of France for a little sofa traveling loveliness. I believe most of these books are taken directly from the old Victoria magazine. I enjoy both very much. I admit to to loving all things British but France is pretty good, too. :)

Another book I found used at a great price is Suzy Bale's Down to Earth Gardener: Let Nature Guide You to Success In Your Garden. I don't remember when I bought it but it was cheaper than the shipping charge. I loved her Garden Parties book and it has come home with me from the library a few times. She also has a book called The Garden In Winter (or something like that) which looks quite interesting.

Anyhoo, this is a garden book you can sit back and read... great writing as well as beautiful pictures. It is still on my coffee table, waiting for the next time I take a break to read just one chapter. Reading it is like chatting with a friend who has been gardening for a very long time.

It reminds me a bit of a book I bought a year or two ago for Stephanie (and the granddaughters) called A Time to Blossom by Tovah Martin. It is a lovely book about gardening and mothers and daughters. It is a typical Tovah Martin book with lovely prose mixed with beautiful gardening pictures... wonderful!

Now all I need is to find more time to read. Hubby is going to a reunion of his Viet Nam war buddies in a few weeks. An Army friend he visited a couple years ago offered to pay all his expenses so how could he say no?

I think when he is gone, I'll spend those days with feet propped up and reading or watching something beautiful on DVD. Laundry can wait. Cooking can be sandwiches and fruit. Sounds like a vacation to me.

Picture: A Good Book; allposters.com

A Grace filled life

I've been thinking a lot about a grace filled life these past few days. The thought kept popping into that part of the brain that likes to ponder about life and stuff. Most of the time it is a God thing. Sometimes it's just me, especially when the thinking is all about sugar cream pie.

Actually, it all started after reading a post on Sally's blog. This link will take you to her post but don't go there now are you will miss my ponderings... be they ever so humble. :)

Life has its' trials and tribulations but I'm convinced we are not to struggle with our days. We are to have joy and peace in the midst of each days, our journey He gives us (I firmly believe) will never be more than we can handle... although I've questioned this a few times when passing through a storm.

A grace filled life is also one which fully utilizes the best this world has to offer and surrounds oneself with that which brings joy, to themselves and their family. Not in such a way to add discontent or tension in an already difficult situation but taking full advantage of our God given ability to create beauty around us.

If God is nothing else (besides being Holy and Love), He is creative. We are made within that image and a grace filled life must have within it things created... our own, from nature, the works of others... that which goes beyond being utilitarian but adds Beauty our heart desires.

What do I do to make every attempt to live a grace filled life... even as dark storm clouds of trials whirl around me?

First... I read the Bible. Only the Bible explains life. As much as I love devotional books and those by gifted teachers, only by going straight back to the Source do I get full Truth. Why should I be surprised by trials when I am told "in this world there will be trouble"? Yet, I am also told Jesus gives peace but not like the World gives it. His peace is possible when in the storm.

Second... I do read books by those gifted in bringing the Word to life and making it even more understandable. I also read general nonfiction which teach and inspire as well as fiction that takes me away to another world. Imagination is God's gift to make up for our finite existence. I have certain titles I read over and over which bring their own grace to my life, most by favorite authors and some of them even childhood favorites.

There are also beautiful books I peruse when I need to be cheered... favorite cookbooks, books with beautiful gardens, a small collection of Victoria books (and the few old Victoria magazines I have as well as the new), and titles containing work by favorite artists or illustrators.

Third... I surround myself with beauty that I can afford. After over thirty years of marriage, I probably developed an affinity for English Country design because of many years of collecting as well as inheriting items from parents. I (try) to keep a balance between the decorating I like and having two men live with me. Quite often in the early morning when the sun is filtered through lace curtains and bringing with it a soft light in this room... I sense His presence just as much as when I'm reading the Gospels.

Of course, Beauty also comes through getting close to nature (okay, so I hug a few trees now and then). With all the rain we've had this year, the forest reminds me a bit of a jungle but it is so beautiful and peaceful. I'm enjoying my garden even if it daily reminds me of Eden's fall as the wet weather has blessed the weeds and not my flowers.

I used to enjoy sitting near Lake Michigan with my feet in the sand... just far enough away from the incoming waves so my toes would get wet but not my clothing. Peace has also come by walking through the park in town and sitting on my deck, surrounded by trees and flowers.

Fourth... I filter what I bring in through my other senses. We are all different in that respect. For instance, I not only love British film and comedy but vintage science fiction and modern day mystery. John Denver makes my heart sing but others cringe... just as Christopher's favorite radio station makes me wonder at his taste in music (although we also similar styles, too). I now rarely (very rarely) sit down and listen to news being discussed on the 24/7 channels.

Fifth... a grace filled life has to be filled with forgiveness. Forgiving ourselves and others while we strive to be more Christ like. A couple of years ago, my son told me growing up in this house certainly taught him all about forgiveness... as only those of us who are imperfect and live with less than perfect people can know.

We not only must forgive others but ourselves. I still have memories pop into my mind once in awhile of things I either said or did long ago that I later regretted. I've learned to ask myself if I've asked God's forgiveness, knowing I have... and then I remind myself if He has put it behind Him, then I can do the same. Holding on to our own failures is just as toxic to a grace filled life as continuing to hold another person's sin against us by not forgiving.

Forgiving ourselves or others does not mean we did or said and what another did was not right. Forgiveness just means we "let it go". I have to "let it go" each and every day with those I live with.... and a cat who persists in hairballs on the sofa.

I must admit I find a grace filled life much easier with furry friends surrounding me. As I write, the elderly kitty is breathing softly beside me. My idea of Heaven is an English cottage surrounded by a weed free (perfect) garden and my furry best friends surrounding me... as well as additional friends with fur. Except Bigfoot.

Our circumstances change so much from childhood to old age. At this time in my life, I tend to be at home a lot and my social life is not what it used to be (given challenges with fatigue I choose more alone time). We all will have different seasons throughout our life... changes that come with our own age and that of our children, when we move, job changes with our spouse or our own... the decision to start or stop working outside the home, health and money challenges, etc.

The Bible tells us there will be Trouble but we also have promises of Grace, and Peace, and Forgiveness, Love... and Joy. Joy is a result of walking the path He has for us and trusting that He is in control... no matter what the trouble.

I will probably not be back until Monday as more family arrives this evening. :)

Picture: The forest as of last week

Pantry talk - fancy foods and the pantry lifestyle

When you are doing research on keeping a pantry, so often the reason people build up a pantry is what I've talked about... it helps us save money, it is essential in an emergency of any kind, it provides during a job loss, etc. However, there is another everyday value I've found in keeping a deep pantry and that is the creativity in the kitchen it makes possible.

I don't have a lot of room for a pantry but I've found we make room for what is important. Since a pantry gives me freedom and a feeling of security, I made a corner of the garage my pantry (it also provides storage for other items as well as my laundry room). It has never known the presence of our car. I also use the cabinet I inherited from my mother-in-law (shown in the picture above).

When Stephanie and I were enjoying a meal at the French restaurant, I told her I started a post long ago titled "Fine Dining" but never finished it. (Sometimes I'll get an idea for something to chat about and just draft a title.) It came about as I was remembering dining experiences at very nice restaurants, something I had not done in eons before last week.

That's how I became interested in gourmet cooking lessons as a young wife and mother, wanting to cook "fancy" food at home once in awhile. After taking cooking lessons and perusing magazines like Bon Appetit and Gourmet, I learned most of the "gourmet" foods served in the nice restaurants were either 1) made with the best and freshest ingredients, 2) made special by serving simple foods with the additions of a unique sauce or seasoning, and/or 3) the presentation of the food created... magic.

It all came back to me as we shared bites of entrees and dessert, sharing also ideas of how we could recreate the tastes at home. I've been watching Lydia's Italy since receiving PBS again and I've heard her talk a great deal about adding just a pinch of red pepper flakes to a pasta dish. I didn't think I'd like them but after realizing that was what gave my pasta meal a bit of a "kick", I now know I'll be adding these to my pantry when possible.

That's what a pantry enables me to do... especially when I have a little more grocery budget than I do right now. I not only keep basic foodstuffs in the pantry but the tall yellow cabinet holds a good collection of herbs, spices, condiments, and other items to add flavor to simple foods.

Most are familiar names I've used for years and years but I also like to try new things. For instance, a couple months ago I saw a McCormick's spice advertisement that they had added smoked paprika to the line of seasonings they sold so I purchased it when it became available for a great price at the grocery store. There are lots of recipes using it online.

If you ever watch any of Nigella's cooking shows, you have seen her closet she uses as a pantry. She purchases ingredients for the pantry when she travels and that inspired me to look for small (and relatively inexpensive) items to add to the yellow cabinet once in awhile. Those special oils, vinegars, condiments, jellies, and other items to add a bit of elegance or the unexpected to food.

A great place to look is Target's clearance rack in their grocery section where they often sell such foods at greatly reduced prices. My latest special addition to the pantry was their apple-caramel sauce which can be poured over ice cream but also used as a dip. There were two jars left at about $1.50 each... a very inexpensive addition to use later for ice cream, pound cake, or with apple slices as a dip. Great idea, Nigella (can you tell my travels are only to the grocery store... but the concept is the same).

Isn't it incredible what one can do with flour, sugar, butter, and a couple of eggs? The basics can come together to create all kinds of amazing creations. By adding an additional flavor of extract, or dried fruit, or chocolate chips, or perhaps a cup of pecans... and one can make a creation for friends and family that brings smiles of joy.

Everything can be kept in the pantry and a small corner of the freezer (butter freezes very well and it has come way down in price) for the moments when we want to "whip up" something special to bring a smile to someone having a difficult day, or serve with a cup of tea at the end of a long day, or to take with us to a last minute picnic to see the animals at the zoo... creativity made possible because of our pantry.

Have you ever walked into a bakery known for high quality and beautiful baked goods.... and cost a small fortune? Not only do they use the best ingredients but just like the "fine dining" restaurants, they often add just a little touch of "special" to their products. I've learned to do the same thing, for instance when I make my favorite coffee cake recipe, I add an extract according to what berries I'm using (almond for cherries, lemon for blueberry).

I also make a thick confectioners sugar glaze to drizzle all over the cooled coffee cake. It makes a simple and inexpensive coffee cake look as if it were purchased in the most expensive store in town (and also adds a delicious flavor).

I used Christmas money to purchase meringue powder and a few inexpensive cake decorating supplies. They are in the yellow pantry awaiting the time and energy to create some fancy sugar cookies or cupcakes.

It is true that creating a pantry means we must make the time to make a list of basic items we want to keep on hand, budget part of our grocery money to purchase for the pantry, look through our recipes and menus to know what food items are most important to keep on hand, and perhaps find a place for shelves so we can have a pantry... but it provides great rewards in the long run.

Yes, I do believe as deep a pantry as possible (food and nonfood items) to provide "insurance" against job losses, national emergencies, and no telling what our future holds... but most of all I love it when I have a full pantry so I know I can provide good meals for my family as well as being able to bake when inspired (having been a pastry chef wannabe).

Oh... what are french lentils? Well, my preference for them came as a result of learning all I could (starting over thirty years ago) about really good food and why chefs have a preference for some types of food over others. I noticed all their recipes called for these lentils instead of the brown type found in American grocery stores at the time.

French (or green) lentils not only have a good flavor but they hold their texture far better than the brown lentils (being less likely to get mushy). I like brown lentils just fine for soup but when I make lentil salads, I understood why I would find them being used in those recipes.

I know this is a rather long post but I'm passionate about the subject... can you tell? :)

Pantry talk: why keep a pantry?

I probably wrote about this before, perhaps a couple of times in my stocking up or pantry talk posts... but this time I'm living out of the pantry so perhaps it is from a different perspective.

We've ended up in an uncomfortable financial position due to rising prices and unexpected costs. This month we began paying off the doctors and hospital for Christopher's surgery. He didn't even spend the night in the hospital (since they knew we were uninsured) but it ended up costing around $24,000. Everyone cut what we owed them by about 60% but only if we started paying them off starting in June... a total of almost $200.00 a month. That was our grocery budget. Yikes!

Of course, not everyone will find themselves on a fixed income combined with unexpected major expenses but there are so many reasons to start and deepen a pantry. It is truly insurance you can eat.

I know you must invest time as well as whatever money you can afford but the benefits are great. If nothing else, you can stock the pantry during sales and save a great deal of money in the long run (not to mention how many less last minute trips to the store you will make).

It becomes easier as one develops a pantry mentality. For instance, even though I had little money for food this month I purchased enough french lentils to last a year. I like them much better than the brown lentils I can buy at the grocery store and they are far to expensive at the health food store.

My friend who belongs to a food co-op was able to split the bag between a few people so I could purchase plenty for a fraction of the regular retail price. That's the pantry mentality... buy cheap and stock up when available to have on hand when needed. Oh, why did I buy lentils now? Her family may be leaving for the mission field within a few months and this was my last opportunity to order through the co-op where she belongs (she added a small bag of wheat as a gift). :)

Another very (very) important reason for having your own pantry and deepening it when possible has come to light once again in my own life as we went to a couple extra government and church run food pantries this past month (in addition to the one pantry I go to each month).

The foods are mostly processed and high carb as they are often the most inexpensive for them to purchase. I find only one or two grocery sacks of food are items I can eat (and even then most are not the healthiest). When you build up your own pantry, you have available foods you already use and your family is familiar with... and may be much more nutritious.

There are also some items I have to throw away when I get home. I have no problem with slightly dented cans or packages (I buy them myself on clearance racks) but we've received some items so dented and so crushed that I throw them away for safety reasons.

The food pantry I went to this week is one that often has meat and milk (we were able to take home a package of lunch meat, sausage, and they even had a bunch of bananas along with canned goods) but it often runs out of many foods before the line is half way along. I got such a chuckle as there was one orphan box of orzo set aside from the packages of noodles and spaghetti. Not the usual pantry food. It came home with me. :)

I do still have food in my own pantry having stocked up on items essential to putting together at least a few menus... canned tomatoes and tomato sauces which add a lot of nutrition, good quality pastas (better for diabetics), canned tuna and chicken, canned green beans, peanut butter and good quality jelly (without corn syrup), and most items necessary for baking (although I've running out of some things), etc.

I also still have a little meat and frozen veggies in the freezer. I had frozen an extra Easter ham when they were so cheap and it is defrosting in my refrigerator to drop by Bonnie's house later this week. That along with some canned veggies and one or two baked goodies will help stretch her small grocery budget (they get less Social Security then we do but they also qualify for food stamps... which we don't) when Jean arrives.

That's something else about keeping a pantry... it's not to hoard for just our family out of fear... it is there to bless others whether to share with others or to have the ingredients on hand to make a meal and/or baked goods for others who need a meal. I truly believe that God gives seed for the sower (and bread for the giver) and there is always someone more needy than us. We are truly blessed in many ways.

I'll write a little more tomorrow about why a pantry is a good thing...

Getting back to normal

Faith and David with Mommy

Last night I curled up on the sofa with a cup of peppermint tea and a John Denver special being rerun on PBS. Sasha was finally convinced the little people were no longer in the house so she left the security of our bedroom to take her place as queen of the sofa again, curled up next to me. I sat there thanking God for such a blessed time.

However, it was strangely quiet with only two people in the house. Christopher was out with friends and our remaining family were most likely at their friend's house in Ohio where they would be spending the night on their way back East. I'm thinking it is the quiet that has Sasha smiling while she was snoozing.

Today I must take advantage of a rare sunny day to do some weeding and other outside duties. We will assemble the gift my son-in-law picked out for us... a gas grill! I can hardly wait to try it out since I've wanted one since we moved here (we had no idea they planned such a gift). This will be such a blessing as my old stove has two burners no longer working and it will provide an easy and healthy way to cook... especially on those hot summer days!

We had hoped to use it before they left but those nine days flew by as if they were nine hours. Elisabeth and I didn't get a chance to bake together or have a tea party. We did get to do a lot of fun "stuff" and Grammie feels seriously spoiled.

We'll be working on getting the garage more organized this week... as with all the household and garden duties... I do a little at a time and it all adds up. I started getting my coupons and recipes organized before garden duties took over and they are once again pulled out, ready to return to when the rains also return.

Then there is the "summer of all things lovely" which will mean reading another book on my list and perhaps baking something yummy for when my sister visits later this week. Jean will be staying with Bonnie this time and Bonnie's husband is now home from the hospital but bedridden. I'm certain Jean's return "home" for a short vacation has a lot to do with her first year as a widow. A basket of goodies will cheer them all up.

Tomorrow I plan to write a little more about deepening the pantry... God willing and the weeds aren't taking over the garden. I'm learning so much about what works and what doesn't while we are living out of the pantry and freezer for awhile.

Debra, I received the bowl! Thank you so much. It now has a place of honor in my kitchen and it reminds my husband of his mother. I am touched and honored by your remembering me when you saw it on e-bay! :)

You prepare a table before me...

The three of us walked in the house for the first time after our family had departed and all commented on how quiet it sounded... and spacious it looked. Actually, what we notice missing are children and suitcases... both of which add, shall we say... texture? :)

As I said, it has been good for our family to get together. One side affect of becoming a grandmother a few years ago was thinking more about the importance of generations and handing down traditions and a deep faith to those who would walk after us. Especially as we are facing changes in society one couldn't comprehend just ten years ago.

Both my husband and I were raised in difficult circumstances (for entirely different reasons) and living with someone who is bipolar has never been easy. However, God is good to fill in the pieces where people are not perfect... with grace. That's not to say there are never frustrations and tears but faith helps one smile and get through the hard times of life while grace helps us do it with beauty and joy.

Why am I thinking about "You prepare a table before me"? I was pondering that section of Psalm 23 when Stephanie and I were being served at the French restaurant last week. I thought of it again as I stood in a long line for a food pantry this afternoon. How ironic that in the same week I would be visiting a food pantry and enjoying a gorgeous meal... but that is the way God works.

My daughter and son-in-law cannot change our circumstances but in the midst of them they can be a blessing. Oh, I'm sure the practical thing to do would be to spend the same amount of money for a trip to Wal Mart or Aldis but that is not the same as God "preparing a table before me".

When God prepares a table, He provides an experience. Food will settle hunger temporarily but a mother-daughter meal at a nice French restaurant feeds the soul as well (and the memories last forever). Especially when it is time spent with a favorite person. He prepares the table... in front of my enemies so says the Psalm... He knows

Stephanie and I talked about the delicious food and how it is made with everyday ingredients. It is just knowing how to put it all together that makes it special. We both came away with an idea for making simple food a little more special.

But that's the way life is, too. He prepares a table... sometimes He uses others to bless us and there are those occasions He gives bread to the giver and allows us to be the blessing. Both involve looking far beyond our circumstances and living a life filled with grace... giving and receiving.

It makes me wonder how I can "prepare a table" for a couple of people I know who are hurting right now. :)

Picture from The Good Life post

I normally give the name of the picture (if I have it) on a post but... wouldn't you know it... the one time I was in a hurry and didn't give it is when many have asked what it is.

It is a poster called Shady Patio from allposters.com.
$14.97 for a 20 x 16" poster

Today the New England Contingent begin their trek back East. We will miss them very much. I love them all but especially enjoy spending time with my daughter (and permanent BFF) again.

It will seem very quiet here for a few days... the front room will change back from a bedroom to a living room, toys and small size clothing will be packed away, and Grammie will take a nap.

Sunday Afternoon Tea

It has been a busy but definitely enjoyable week. I think we're all a little tired but we've had fun together. We are all well aware that time goes quickly and when a family only gets together once a year, major changes will take place with each child (quickly) and the adults (on a slower level).

The family is God's creation and there was none better... even the beauty which surrounds the world cannot compare with the beauty of family. Of course, there are no perfect families just as there are no perfect places in this world. Just ask one who gardens and spends much of their time fighting the weeds and tares. :)

My family has known a great deal of pain through the years. We continue, as with all people, to carry many burdens. There are health issues with many, financial concerns for my husband and I, decisions to be made about the future, wondering how we are going to pay for Christopher's education, prayer for Steph and her hubby's soon anniversary trip to England, wondering what tomorrow will bring in this world... the news of which is often of instability and uncertainty.

It is not the trials we go through that separate families, it is how we choose to deal with the hard times... do we seek our strength and patience from God and teach our children to look toward Him or do we turn against each other? It is our choice. The next generation depends on how we handle adversity in these difficult days.

When we were at the amusement park, our son-in-law treated us to lunch at a favorite restaurant. There were a few conversations going on at the long table when Stephanie said something to me that made me laugh until I cried. Okay... so she compared me to Miss Piggy. But it is because we are family and we have a history together that such a remark would cause me great laughter and not be an insult as it may to someone else. Christopher didn't even "get it" (having been born rather late to remember our weekly watching of The Muppets).

That's what family is all about... the shared memories good and bad, those jokes only understood by a parent or sibling, or extended family members. Tradition passed from one generation to another. The importance of faith, remembering those miracles when God provided in great ways but also memories of flea bites on our ankles when we all four of us had to live together in a cheap hotel room for three months after losing it all in the mid-90s... thinking it would never happen again only to have the exact same thing happen to the three of us after returning from Michigan in the early 2000s...

Choices... do we stomp our feet and get mad at God and question what right we have to go through this (again). Or... do we trust Him and go on... deeper in His Word, in prayer, and faith. Do we mourn what we have lost or thank God that we still have each other and trust Him as we walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death (or dark days)?

This past week we've been spoiled in a nice way by our daughter and son-in-law, benefiting from their hard earned success (he in his profession, she as a wife and mom). It is always good when you raise your children to spoil you when they get to be adults. But this week's lovely times together and joy filled memories are a result of thirty-five and more years of daily decisions to keep going when times were tough, not giving up when one wanted, thinking we did not have the energy to get through another day when days were dark and times were hard.

I'm also thankful for my son-in-law's parents who raised he and his brother to trust God above all. Even if he does read theology books whose titles I can't pronounce. He's good family. He also has really cute kids. Such is family life when one becomes a grandparent. :)