Stape Scoop

Can You See It?

2012-02-07T17:44:00.003-07:00

I told you about our snow storm this weekend. Well I noticed something I'd never seen before.
Can you see it?

Now can you see it?

A simple explanation: the snow blew in from the North
and stuck to only one side of the trees,
and boots.

Now can you see it?

LISTAMONDAY...

2012-02-06T22:54:00.001-07:00

Some things I need to get done this week...

l. clean my bathroom

2. fold laundry

3. pack suitcase for trip to Denver

4. make Art the cherry pie he has been asking for

5. get to post office tomorrow

6. finish baby hat I started

7. loose 20 lbs :)

8. haircut

9. find swimsuit & CD's

10. share this picture with you

Kitty found a gopher

And It Just Kept Snowing....

2012-02-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

2012-02-03T16:31:00.001-07:00

I have spring fever...

We have had beautiful weather this week. It has been in the 60's...

So yesterday I decided to head out and find if there was some sign of spring...somewhere...

The cat came along...

Sometimes he led sometimes I did.

There wasn't even a single bud on any trees...not one

Instead everything was dead...winter dead...

Along the way I found a mushroom...

Kidding it's not real....

The birds weren't building nests...
Instead they were hanging around the heated bird bath...
They knew what I should have.

It's not Spring...Its still winter...

And then it was confirmed
We woke to this scene this morning...Snow a flying...
Winter is back

Some Scoop...

2012-02-02T09:12:00.003-07:00

Just a ~~very~~ few things going on here....

Yesterday was my 43 wedding anniversary. I love my husband and he is nice to me all the time. He bought me the cutest card and small gift. We had agreed not too , so guess who didn't? It's important for you to know that along with him being who is he, that God is Good and He has blessed us. We had a prime rib dinner to celebrate. One we cooked ourselves of course.

We have had 60 degree weather all week, but snow is coming?

Art made Semolina and Sesame seed bread yesterday:) it was good.

Still no ~~Christmas~~ babies:) Though my niece is having contractions

Today is Thursday and Art remembered, he is going to get a Nebraska Driver's License .
I prefer to let him do it first. I haven't taken a test in years.

It's still raining on Tanna Island...It stopped long enough for underwear to dry. I can smell the mildew from here.

I'm knitting a little baby hat. I figure I will have a newborn model very soon.
Art has been working on his Gun cabinet. It looks good. Soon all that hunting stuff will be off my bedroom floor.

I have a devotional I wrote being printed in The Upper Room, next month. First time I have ever gotten payed for something I wrote.

Going to Denver next week...
We have tickets to see Pam Tebow speak at the Alternative Pregnancy Center. Well actually she is speaking at the DU conference center.
It will be fun to hear what Tim's mamma has to say.

We really liked the church we went to Sunday. I think we will go back again this week.
I tried to get an appointment for a haircut in town.
They had no opening until Feb. 22.
I wasn't rude, when I calmly said,"Seriously?"
I'll do it in the city.

I rode 3 1/2 miles on my bike yesterday..going for 4 today. The bike helps my knees feel better.
I'm between books, I just finished one by a local author. Murder in the cornfields...It's called Cornstalked by Patricia Bremmer..
I'm not big on murder mysteries, but this one caught my eye at the local grocery store.

The cats are still stalking the birds, they haven't gotten a bird lately, but did bring some little gopher creature in the house yesterday...
The cat was promptly sent back outside with her prize.

Art is chopping more firewood today. I love our wood burning fireplace.

Did I ever tell you I was working on a 1000 point Thankful List? I'm almost to 500.
I started in September.

Art's cooking Grouse for lunch. He went hunting yesterday.

I sold a book, I need to get it ready to go to send with Art when he goes into town.
See ya....

LISTAMONDAY...

2012-01-30T19:39:00.003-07:00

In honor of My 43 wedding anniversary on February1 my list today is

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY GIFTS

1st paper or clocks

2nd cotton or china

3rd leather or glass

4th flowers or small appliances

5th wood or silverware

6th iron or candy

7th wool or copper

8th bronze or linen

9th pottery or leather

10th aluminum or diamond

11th steel or jewelry

12th silk or pearls
13th lace or textiles
14th ivory or gold

15th crystal or watches
20th china or platinum
25th silver
30th pearl
35th coral or jade
40th ruby
45th sapphire
50th gold
55th emerald
60th diamond

I love these kinds of lists....
The point is that you would give the corresponding gift for the anniversary year you are celebrating...
fun huh?

Yummy...

2012-01-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

And you thought Cabbage soup wouldn't be good....

This was so yummy

I have to give you the recipe

SOUTH GERMAN'S WHITE CABBAGE SOUP
1 head of cabbage
2 carrots
1 parsnip
4 potatoes
1 onion
1 lb. cubed pork
5 cups bouillon
Salt and pepper to taste

Trim and cut the cabbage in pieces . Peel the carrots and cut in quarters. Peel the parsnip and slice. Peel the potatoes and cube. Brown the onion and pork in a small amount of fat in a Dutch oven, then add the bouillon and simmer until the pork is almost tender. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for 30 minutes longer
Serve with french bread and mustard. 4 servings. Deep South Cookbook

What day is This?

2012-01-29T09:04:00.002-07:00

This retirement thing is all new, but especially crazy when one has been thrown out into the wilderness to experience this new phenomenon. Don't get me wrong I'm not hating it or anything, I'm just trying to get used to it.

But my husband on the other hand is just fine. He has found himself the perfect little world to live in and he is as happy as a clam.
Go with the flow he says. You know, don't worry today over something you can do tomorrow or again next Thursday.

Why he doesn't even know which day it is half the time...
We had this conversation the other day:
" Tomorrow, I'll go get my Nebraska License and get plates for the car," he said.
"Well, you can only go on Thursdays to do that and today is Thursday," I said.
"WHAT! Why didn't you tell me?"
He was genuinely distraught.
"I don't know. I guess I thought you would know what day it is, " I said.

It doesn't bother him trying to figure out what time the post office is open or closed.
I have had a stack of books in the car for three days now because every time we go to the post office it is closed. We've missed it two times by half an hour. Once because they closed for lunch and once because they just closed early.

Yesterday he went into mail packages, missed it by an hour this time. He decided to check out the thrift store for a new treasure or two but when he got to the door they put out the CLOSED sign just as he was walking in.
"If I'd known it was going to close so soon, I would have gone to the grocery store last," he said.
He spent to much time in the grocery looking for parsnips.

He has taken to making bread every other day...
building shelves... you should see my pantry and laundry room....
and finding new recipes...
I'm not complaining, he is an excellent cook. Today we are going to have cabbage soup. He finally was able to find parsnips.
We will start our diet on Monday....If we can figure out when Monday is:)

At least we found an ATM that is open 24/7..
We needed to get money for popcorn at the little theater in town.
They show one movie Friday, Saturday, and Sunday each week.
We were going to see Mission Impossible. When we pulled up he said,
"They are knocking them dead tonight in town my love, look at all the cars."
Yep, there were around 6 trucks parked in front instead of the normal 3.
At least he didn't ask " Which movie are we seeing?" when he walked in this time.

So my sweet husband is enjoying retirement life...
and I'm not complaining, I have more time to write, and read, and knit. I do miss
my grand kids though.

I'm pretty sure it's Sunday, and we are going to check out a new church this morning.
Hopefully this time they won't ask me what possessed us to move here.
I'll let you know.

That Christmas Feeling....

2012-01-25T18:17:00.002-07:00

Its beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!!!

You know the feeling, when you are anxious and excited. You have butterflies in your stomach.

You just can't wait for the holiday to get here.

It's going to be presents, family and fun....

Well the holiday is over, but I'm getting that Christmas feelin.

I always get this feeling when a new grand baby is due.

Pretty soon it will be someones birthday, but this time it will be a Great grand baby...

I know I'm not old enough to be a GREAT nana, but it is what it is.

I love my grand children. There is nothing better than being a grandma.

I had this feeling with each one of them, and I think this waiting is the hardest and funnest (is that a word) part....

To make things even better I have a niece that's due at the same time
Two Birthdays
Yep it's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, and I
can hardly wait...

LISTAMONDAY...

2012-01-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT COUNTRY LIVING:
1. the clean air
2. the many animals in my backyard
3. the cardinals nesting in my wind row
4. the friendly people
5. the small grocery store in town
6. the lack of traffic
7. the stars at night
8. the quiet
9. sleeping in
10. my husband

How To WAKE a Sleeper

2012-01-21T06:23:00.002-07:00

A sleeper is someone who is a night owl , loves to sleep in , and once asleep is IMPOSSIBLE to wake up. So how does this creature make it to a 5 a.m. shift?

1. 2:01 a.m. first alarm goes off, this is to alert the brain that it will soon be time to get up.
2. 3:01 a.m. second alarm goes off, this is a reminder that there is 1/2 hour left to sleep.
3. 3:31 a.m. four alarms go off each with a different tone and placed strategically around the room.
The dog joins in howling. In order to quiet the dog and turn off the alarms the sleeper must get
up.

At this point anyone in the house can now go back to sleep, and the sleeper moves on to the 5 a.m. shift.

Take Them Two By Two....

2012-01-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

And God Was Pleased With Noah...

I love this book...

It is filled with detailed pictures instead of words..

Toby , my five year old grandson likes to look at the pictures and talk about what we see...

You can buy this book at TheVintageBookman

Some Scoop...

2012-01-19T20:36:00.001-07:00

Came to the city for some errands, and doc appointments... yearly mammogram...

Weather here is 65 degrees. ..According to my brother it's snowing in Seattle...Crazy weather..

My new great grand baby is due 3 weeks from Saturday...

Erik and Michele are going back to Tanna on Monday...

They make a machine that allows you to make your own cola...Guess who had to have one?

Bentley was happy to see us...you know the dog....

It snowed the night before we left...it was 2 degrees ...Crazy weather...

I need new eyeglasses....

Got some great Pyrex at an estate sale today....

I'm taking an internet crochet class...

Reading a book about Navy Seals...Art gave it to me....

Good Deer Chili tonight...

I sold 5 books this week....

I found a 7-11 that was still selling Pumpkin Spice coffee...

We are heading back on Saturday...

I know there is more, but I'm to tired to think of it....

LISTAMONDAY...

2012-01-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

I've been busy since we moved working on my online bookstore. I finally got through the 10+ boxes that I had packed.
I have some great books to get on, but it will take time.
I have a special one I will share here tomorrow.
My list for today has to do with BOOKS: TOP 10 LITERARY ONE-HIT WONDERS
10. BLACK BEAUTY BY ANN SEWELL, The author of this book had a fall which rendered her lame, as a result she had a great fondness for horses. She wrote this book later in life while confined to her home.
9. GONE WITH THE WIN BY MARGARET MITCHELL, Margaret Mitchell wrote this book while recovering from a broken ankle. She only wrote one other book, and it wasn't published till after her death.
8. THE DEVIL IN THE FLESH BY RAYMOND RADIGUET , Ramond Raiguet wrote this book using personal experiences.
7. WUTHERING HEIGHTS BY EMILY BRONTE, Emily Bronte wrote much poetry but only this one book. It is considered to be a classic in English literature.
6. IN SEARCH OF LOST TIME BY MARCEL PROUST, Marcel Proust is best known for this extremely long novel. over thirty two hundred pages, it was published posthumously.
5. THE BELL JAR BY SYLVIA PLATH, Sylvia Plath is one of the greatest female poets of the twentieth century. The Bell Jar, is semi-autobiographical and describes the life of a young woman with mental illness. One month after book was published the author commited suicide.
4. THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY BY OSCAR WILDE, Oscar Wilde is best known for his plays, but he also wrote poetry and one novel. The novel delves into the mind of a young man whose obsession with youth and beauty lead him into a life of horror.
3. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD BY HARPER LEE, Harper Lee won a Pulitzer prize for this book.The book describes racism and tension in a small town in the South.
2. CATCHER IN THE RYE BY J. D. SALINGER, J.D. Salinger wrote only one novel. Salinger became reclusive.
1. DOCTOR ZHIVAGO BY BORIS PASTERNAK, Boris Pasternak was a famed Russian Nobel Prize winning poet. Doctor Zhivago is his best known book.

I found this list in the ultimate book of top 10 lists.
How many have you read?
I reread TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD last year and really enjoyed it.
I ordered the THE BELL JAR....from Amazon to read now.

Me and Kitty talk...

2012-01-12T18:34:00.000-07:00

me:"Heh, Kitty Kitty, What are you up to?"

kitty: "I don't know. There is something
about these birds, that I like."

me: " Well, sometimes cats hunt birds."

kitty: " Hmphh, really?

me: "Did you know that the red ones are off limits?"
kitty: " No.."
me: "Yes, they are my favorite."
kitty: "I'll take what I can get."

me: "you need to know, if you kill one you eat it.
that's the family rule. One eats what they kill."
kitty: " no way...I'm a Friskie's Cat."

Night Time At The Almost Farm...

2012-01-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

LISTAMONDAY...

2012-01-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

I found another list book this weekend.

Some of these lists are so good that I'm going to share one every Monday on my blog.

Should be fun....

Today's list goes along with where I'm at right now....

RETIREMENT....

1. Speak to people who are already retired

2. Reevaluate priorities.

3. Determine what legacy you want to leave.

4. Begin downsizing if necessary.

5. Develop new hobbies.

6. Reassess finances and plan your future.

7. Do more things with your spouse.

8. Look for volunteer activities.

9. Plan future vacations.

10. Think of classes you might want to take.

11. Set up exercise program.

12. Increase time with old friends, make new

friends with your same interests.

Retirement has forced us to look at these things.

For me,

1. I like to watch others who are retired.

2. For me reevaluating my priorities has to go along with both my age andmy time. I"m not getting any younger and I have more time.

3. This has really been on my mind. I feel like I need to be sure not to waste this time.

4. Moving made me downsize. I've been talking about it for years, I'm finally doing it, and it feels good. I need to be sure that I don't find myself in same place down the road. That means I need to keep cleaning things out.

5. I plan to develop my old hobbies to a greater degree because I have time now.

6. Unless you are rich, one is forced to reassess. We aren't rich.

7. We are doing just that, it helps when you get along:)

8. Haven't thought about this. I'm not sure there is anywhere to volunteer here.

9. We have talked about where we would like to take our next trip.

10. I want to take a photography class.

11. We are trying.. A walk tomorrow is planned.

12. We have no choice but to make new friends.

It's His Fault....

2012-01-08T16:04:00.001-07:00

Art and I agreed that the best way for us to meet people would be church.

Well, its Sunday, we picked a church and headed out. Though we've been around town this was our first time meeting people besides the grocery lady or gas attendant.

We walked in the front door of the small church and a gasp ran through the small crowd. Well that's an exaggeration but we did have everyone's attention.

We had a sign attached to us,

New people...... New people....

We were met rather quickly by a nice middle aged lady named Kathy. She inquired where we had come from, and was pretty surprised to find that we had moved here from Denver.

He next comment surprised me.

"I always feel bad for people who come from the city to here. They don't know how hard it will be."

Now that's what I wanted to hear.

The people were really friendly, but in a total of one hour four others asked why we would come here from the city.

The only answer I could come up with on such short notice was to point to Art and say

He made me do it:)

I'm going to watch the Broncos.
Go Tebow....

Our Almost Farm....

2012-01-07T18:23:00.002-07:00

We have been here over a month. Here is Nebraska, the ~~almost~~ farm is 5 acres. We have an alfalfa field, a four bedroom house, a home made red barn, a huge garage, around ten giant old elm trees, and even more cedar trees.
We have Cardinals nesting in those trees, they love the seed Art feeds them daily. We have raccoon, skunks, possum, and deer that roam the field. Still no chickens and that's why it is our almost farm, because I want chickens.

I have many people asking me if I'm happy here. I think its time to give this question an answer, and to do that I need to go back, way back. 62 years ago I was born in Denver,Colorado, raised there I'd say I'm a city girl through and through. At a young age I married the man of my dreams, that was almost 42 years ago.
Dreams are never fulfilled the way you think they will be. Art (my husband ) and I have had some tough times, but with sobriety, counseling, prayer, and God's blessings we are better for it.
As the scripture says, the two have become one:)
I think for those who know us, when they think of Art they think of Karen.
Its kinda like sugar and cream, soap and water, wine and cheese, ham and eggs. You get my drift.
He is my best bud, and I would hope he would say I'm his.
Art is good to me all the time. I'm not saying that we never have our disagreements, we do. Right now we are disagreeing over where to feed the cats. I say downstairs, he says upstairs.
Silly huh?
This move has , at times, strained our usually calm approach to one another, but over the years I've learned to pick my battles.

Around 10 years ago we bought this place. We had friends who lived in Nebraska, and Art always wanted his own little farm. The house was practically free, the neighbor wanted to burn it down instead he sold it to Art for $3000. Art, step by step, and I have to admit often with me objecting to him spending the money, has made this house a home and very comfortable. He has done many special things to make me happy here.
I remember when he took the front off the house to replace the windows, and the inside of the walls were entirely filled with Box-elder bugs. They weren't all dead, I definitely had my doubts that day.
There is still lots to do. He has been saving this work for just this time, retirement, and I'm thankful that he is still healthy enough to accomplish it.
Ten years ago, the reality of moving here seemed a long time off, we traveled here often, and always went back to our lives in the city, but then Art retired and here we are.

Change has never been easy for me. I learned in therapy many years ago that change is good, but with my personality I still never embrace change easily.
I don't miss my little townhouse in Denver, but leaving it with Jon (my grandson) made it easier, besides a house has never been something I've attached myself too. I do miss the city though. I'm not sure how long it will take me to get used to not having shopping at my convenience or McDonald's coffee in the mornings.

I'll miss my grandchildren the most. The reality of this loss will probably be most apparent when I can't go to their school programs, games, or have them easily spend the weekend.
I have a great grandchild coming very soon, it will be hard not being right down the street, to hold her and help out. Grieving these losses will always be there, I'm sure.
I miss my mom who lived right down the street, and my sister.
We no longer can set up a quick breakfast meeting to catch up, and that is hard.

But these losses have nothing to do with how I feel about this place.
This is a new season in our married life. We have been through a lifetime of seasons together, and wherever Art is I want to be, he is my sweetie.

There is one other thing I know for sure that no matter where I live today this is not my permanent home. God is preparing that place for me.
Someday I will live in a perfect place, but for now how could one not be happy when looking out the window I see turkeys hanging out in the back yard.

TODAY.....

2012-01-05T22:50:00.001-07:00

TODAY: we loaded our car and headed out for a little Nebraska exploring...

TODAY: We saw brittle brown fields of harvested corn

and corn filled silo's...

TODAY: We went eagle viewing at Lake Mcconaughy

TODAY: We saw rocks that looked like mountains....

TODAY:We saw a rock called a chimney

TODAY: We went through a town named OshKosh
Not famous for children's clothes, but for being the
goose hunting capital of the world.

There were ducks and geese
filling the air. Art was in heaven..

Today: I was in heaven when we found a small
town called Mitchell, and there in Mitchell was the sheep farm that
makes Lamb's Pride Yarn.
I increased my stash...

check out those colors...nice huh?

TODAY: I saw the most beautiful sunset....

TODAY: was a fun day of exploring..

Perfect Christmas Gift....

2012-01-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

I know these are dang cute....

No you are not seeing things, though you are probably counting socks, these cuties come in ~~pairs of~~ threes.

Called littlemissmatched from QVC

My mom's favorite place to shop.

Well I like it myself, and will probably like it even more living out here in the middle of a field:)

Socks are one of my favorite things, probably cause my feet are so mismatched.

can you tell? but that's another story.

Nice Christmas present...love them mom.

2012 To Do List....

2012-01-03T08:19:00.000-07:00

Write something every day
Learn to make a sock
Loose 25lbs.
Drink more water
Make 5 new friends
Get an exercise routine
Find new church
Finish living room before next hunting season
Take photography class
Get active in new ministry
Finish one of my memory books
I need a new hairdo
Get twitter account active again
Get my Amazon account going again

Good thing I have a whole year:)

Two Thousand Twelve...

2012-01-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

We ushered in the new year quietly. Joe went home early and Art and I sat on the couch watched the Broncos game...Tebow where are you? Had leftovers, and didn't move until bedtime.
I skyped Erik throughout game. He is on the other side of the world and we enjoyed the game together. I like it.

I've never been one to put lots of emphasis on the letting go of the old year and starting over with the new. I guess I believe that its better to live fully enough that one year will melt into another without huge changes. Those life changes should be happening all year long. Though I am working on a list of things I would like to do in 2012.

I found this great book of LISTS in my book travels. I'm always looking for books for my online shop The Vintage Bookman It's called Lists to live by...compiled by a group of three
I love lists. I make them all the time. They are hung in obvious spots in the house, I have them in my journal, I find them in my purse. Nothing worse than getting to the grocery store without my list.

My lists make me feel in control. They bring order to what might otherwise seem overwhelming.
My lists help me to remember what needs doing, or buying, or taken, or read, or prayed about and the list goes on and on. My mind isn't what it used to be, and there is nothing better than marking something off my list I feel so accomplished :)

My lists are long or short whatever is meaningful or necessary for the situation at hand.
Right now I'm working on a list of 1000 things I'm thankful for....I started in Sept. and I've reached 439...
I started this project more as a challenge to myself, but doing this has been a life changing process. It has made me aware of the many many blessings in my life, and this list has been meaningful enough that I might carry on past 1000.

I'm thinking it might be fun to share some of my lists over this year.
I'm working on my 2012 right now....stay tuned....

Migraine is Gone...

2011-12-31T20:48:00.001-07:00

Hard to believe it has been a week since Christmas.

I like the week in between the two holidays it feels like one long celebration.

Joe and boys have been here all week hunting deer.

Today was the last day...

Only got one doe this week.

The morning started like this, beautiful sunrise..

By afternoon it was snowing.

I had a migraine all day, one of the throw up kind, but I was just nauseated.

Did I tell you that I got a pair of microwave slippers for Christmas.

They are awesome when its cold.

Love em...

What did you get?

We had 9 people for dinner tonight.

Guess who cooked?

Its nice having a husband who makes such good food...

We ate two hours ago and the boys are sitting here eating cereal.

Bronco's play last game tomorrow.

We have enough left overs to eat for a week.

I will never be able to stay awake til midnight.

Migraine is finally gone...

I'm going to start diet again on Tuesday..

Joe is going home tomorrow,

boys go back to school Tuesday.

I finished my baby blanket this week.

Baby is due in month and half, I have time to make baby hat to match..

I still have a garage full of boxes, but pantry is now clean.

Yesterday was Jon's birthday.. He was 22.

Snow stopped moon is out.

I'm tired, think I will go to bed.

HAPPY NEW YEAR..

goodnight.

Grandma and Grandpa...

2011-12-29T08:49:00.001-07:00

Art and I love being grandparents.

We recognize that we have unique opportunities to teach and nurture a young life.

So when Toby said, "Grandma I'm hungry," this morning, I

asked, "Do you want the cereal that you picked out yesterday at the store?"

"No, I want my jelly beans for breakfast."

Silly boy...

I made him eat his TRIX before the jelly beans, and then I made him give me the black ones:)

A boy and his dog...

We now get e-mails from the Vanuatu kids. Art loves writing back to them, and he is much more diligent to do it than me, but that is another story. This morning Sierra asked him a simple question, an opportunity for him to teach her about the nature of cats.

"Grandpa, how do the cats catch the birds?"

Grandpa responded,
"The cats go outside and put on bird costumes so that the real birds don't think that they are cats.
When one of the real birds comes over to say hi ho to the new bird in the neighborhood the disguised cat snags the bird. They have big pockets in their bird costumes so they can catch several before they take them to dinner. The birds are catching on to the scam though and yesterday there were several birds in cat costumes. I'm not sure what the birds intend to do with the cats, but it's fun to watch."

That's how we roll as grandparents. Our grandchildren love us.
We love them too..
Did I mention we are soon to be great grandparents?
I can hardly wait....

Hunting and Birthday cakes....

2011-12-27T21:31:00.003-07:00

One more week of Nebraska deer hunting then the licenses will run out and it will be over til next year. So the guys are hunting hard these days.

They decided to go toward McCook, home of the closest Wal Mart.

Just happens that today is Toby's birthday.

He is my youngest grandson and is five years.

After some thought I said to Joe, "Why don't you stop at Wal Mart and get Toby a cake. Just a little one and then I won't make one."

No Problem, he wholeheartedly agreed to do it.

Five hours later, they arrived home with a nice doe in the truck and this cake...

It was supposed to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TOBY...

I chuckled to myself thinking this is what happens when you send the guys

on a shopping mission while they are hunting in Nebraska.

"Nice cake Joe."

"It's all I could find. Toby doesn't like chocolate and this is the only white one they had."

Nice logic....

Toby was delighted. He can't read, and we didn't tell him:)

Blowing out the candles is always a challenge for a five year old

but a fun challenge...

Once the big 5 candle was out,

Grandpa cut into the cake and the white cake was not white...

"Dad I don't like chocolate," said Toby.

Poor Joe sometimes you can't win.

As you can see it turned out to be pretty tasty.

Every one had a piece or two.

Toby gave in, tried it and ate it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOBY...

Mission accomplished cake and a deer all in one trip:)

Christmas Countdown... Today A Small Child Has Been Born ....

2011-12-23T19:57:00.003-07:00

In Nebraska we live out in the country. There are no city lights for miles so that on a clear night the sky is dark and filled with the sparkling light of the stars. Standing under the expanse the scene can be breathtaking.
It's quiet at night, so quiet that its easy to hear the hooting owl,or the coyote on the hill, or the mournful mooing of the cows in the field behind the house.
Long long ago...
The Shepherds were sleeping. The sheep were huddled together. It was an ordinary quiet star lit night These simple men had no way of knowing that in a stable close by, the Savior of the world was born. God incarnate was sleeping in the manger.
Somebody had to tell them...
Suddenly the dark night was shattered with light, the quietness was flooded with song and praise.

"And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
Then the angel said to them, Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you. You will find the babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying..GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST AND ON EARTH PEACE, GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN!!! Luke 2:8-14

And then as quickly as the night had changed it became quiet again.
The shepherds looked at one another and with haste went to Bethlehem to find the baby which God had made known to them.

I have a missionary son who is translating the scripture for the Ni Vanuatu who live on Tanna Island in Vanuatu. He is putting the scripture into their language so that they will have the good news of God's Word to read or hear for themselves.
I thought you might enjoy seeing Luke 2:8-14 first in their language, and then translated back to English.

Ia kwopun ncha ncrmama nepwxn sc kamtx sipsip kamncmak ia nxkare taon ncha iruc, mamhctui tx sipsip me scvcnraha ia ncpxn.
Agero riti scvci icrxmcnu reiwaiu pehe mcrer ia nxkarenraha. Nukuranien scvci Icrxmcnu rchicpwxn ircha. Ncnc ircha hchekxr pxk
Mctc agero ncha rxni pen tx nircha i mxnuc "Kxmiaha tihcpwch nxhekxrien. Kcregi ro! Iou takcvisau ncgkiarieen amasan anan em kxmiaha. Ncrmama pam tuhagien asori tukwe. Luke 2:8-10

At that place some people who look out for sheep they were staying on the side of that town outside, they were looking out for their sheep at night.
An agero of the Lord came down he stood at their side. The light of the Lord was shining on them. And they were very afraid.
But that agero he said to them, You all do not be afraid. Listen! I will tell some very good news to you all. All people will be very glad over it.
Today in the town of Kig Deved a small child has been born. He is Kristo, our Lord. God chose him out to come to you all and carry your lives (i.e.save them)
this will be a sign for you all. You will go and see a small child wrapped in cloth being in a boxed thing animals are fed in it.
That agero finished speaking, and right then many came from heaven and appeared with him, they were praising God singing this song saying,
God is praised in the very high heaven;and on this ground peace will be for those people God is happy with them. Luke 2:8-14

Awesome huh? The angel's good news in the Nafe language.

Merry Christmas!!!

Playing nice...

2011-12-22T08:30:00.001-07:00

Hanging with Grandpa..

Getting along, they were just happy to be there:)

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

What's better than a pan of fudge and some no bake cookies?

Maybe licking the fudge pan....

Art and I got real energetic and made our first batch of

ENGLISH TOFFEE

2 CUPS BUTTER (SALTED)
2 CUPS SUGAR
1/4 CUP WATER
3 CUPS WHOLE RAW ALMONDS...next time I will chop them up
24 OZ. MILK CHOCOLATE....we used milk chocolate chips

Heat butter, sugar, and water in a heavy sauce pan on Medium high heat

Stir constantly and gently to 250F. (mandatory to use candy thermometer )
Do not let the bottom burn ( we stirred constantly)

At 250F, add almonds and continually stir to 298F. If the butter separates out when making this, carefully continue stirring until the butter is mixed back into the candy.( ours didn't separate)

Pour hot candy into an 11 x15 inch pan. Greased lightly with butter
When toffee has cooled about 10 mins. Place 1/2 of chocolate chips on top and when they melt spread them out evenly.

Invert toffee onto wax paper and add remaining chips spreading when melted. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts when chocolate hardens break into small pieces and store.
We helped it along and cooled in refrigerator for short time.

This is seriously good, I knew you needed the recipe:)

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

"Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David.
In order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth." Luke 2:1-5

" Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.
Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross
For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:5-11

Adeste Fideles
O come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem.
Come and behold him, born the King of angels

O come let us adore him,
O come let us adore him,
O come let us adore him,
Christ the Lord.

Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultation,
Sing all ye citizens of heaven above,
Glory to God, all glory in the highest.

O come let us adore him,
O come let us adore him,
O come let us adore him,
Christ the Lord. Latin Carol, 18th century.

TODAY IN MY KITCHEN

2011-12-19T16:59:00.002-07:00

I THOUGHT ABOUT making fudge
DECLARED that whatever Art cooks is my favorite dinner for two reasons he is an excellent cook, and I didn't have to cook it:)
MADE chili for dinner, well Art made chili for dinner. No it's not deer chili, that's burger you see:)

NIBBLED ON peanuts in the shell while

CLEANING my refrigerator. I hate to admit that it was so ~~dirty~~ yucky that at one point I declared we needed a new refrigerator, but I endured , scrubbed, and threw away outdated food until it is sparkling clean. Is there anything more satisfying than a clean refrigerator? Well maybe a clean ceiling fan. That"s a project for tomorrow:) along with making fudge.
SHOOED the cat from under my feet "Move Magnet, I'm working here."
LAMENTED over food that was from 2009, only one thing, but REALLY?
KEPT ON my Christmas tree lights, they make me smile:)

REMEMBERED or tried to REMEMBER when I last cleaned the refrigerator, I gave up.
LISTENED to Christmas music while working.
APPRECIATED help from Art because every little bit counts
TOOK TIME OUT to drink a cup of coffee and watch some of the Santa Clause with Toby, he is sick today and he needed some grandma comfort.
REMEMBERED its only 5 days til Christmas
PRAYED for Michele while scrubbing syrup off my shelves.
MADE SURE I made rolls for dinner, the least I could do:)
FELT VERY LUCKY to have a refrigerator to clean:) really.
ENCOURAGED Art to go hunting with Joe.
WELCOMED the FedEx at my door, my first delivery, a phone booster.
I'M THINKING my cell phone might be working soon, if the booster works.
I'TS A BUSY PLACE this kitchen of ours!!!

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-13T16:46:00.001-07:00

JOY TO THE WORLD...
Joy to the world! the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room...and heav'n and nature sing, and heav'n and nature sing, and heav'n ,heav'n and nature sing.

Joy to the world! The Savior reigns. Let men their songs employ. While fields and floods, rocks hills and plains...Repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy, repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

He rules the world with truth and grace and makes the nations prove . The glories of His righteousness... And wonders of His love, and wonders of His love, and wonders, wonders of His love. ISAAC WATTS 1674-1748

Isaac Watts was 45 years and in ill health when he took time away from preaching to take the Psalms and rework them. He published Psalms of David, Imitated in the Language of the New Testament. He wanted to give New Testament meaning to Old Testament Psalms
JOY TO THE WORLD was written not as a Christmas Carol but a song based on Psalm 98, which tells of the Messiah's coming and kingdom. The reader might see Watts's first stanza in Psalm 98:2-3

"The Lord has made known His salvation
He has revealed His righteousness
in the sight of nation. He has remembered
His lovingkindness and His faithfulness to
the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth
have seen the salvation of our God."

Stanza 2 can be seen in verse 4 and 7-8
"Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth;
Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises.
Let the sea roar and all it contains,
The world and those who dwell in it
Let rives clap their hands,
Let the mountains sing together for joy"

Set to a tune by the English composer George Friedrich Handel, JOY TO THE WORLD can powerfully fill the heart with the joy of Christ's coming at Christmas time.

I have always loved this Christmas Carol, but I really like it now I know its based on the scripture.

The Way I Roll:)

2011-12-11T15:14:00.001-07:00

I don't know why, maybe it's the holidays, or maybe it's because there is a place to give it, or maybe it's cause I like using my Kitchen Aid Mixer, but I'm on a roll.
Today,
I've baked 4 loaves of banana bread for the old folks and made a batch of chocolate chip cookies for me, and they are mighty good with my big cup of coffee, if I do say so myself....
I thought I'd give you this very easy Cookie recipe. I'm betting you will like it too, It's easy and good...

EnJoy!!! Gotta Go Watch The Broncos.....

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
1 cup of shortening + 2 Tablespoons water
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 large eggs
2 1/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups of chocolate chips

Bake at 350 for 14 mins...

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

School Christmas Concert....Toby is ready

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-09T09:56:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite parts of the Christmas story is in Luke 1:36-56.
This section is filled with glorious praise scripture or songs that are so moving to me.

The angel tells Mary that her relative Elizabeth , who is old, is also going to have a child.
The books I've read say that Elizabeth could have been a cousin or an Aunt. I like to think she was an Aunt. I have two wonderful nieces and I can imagine them coming to find me, and wanting my take on what was happening.
We see in verse 39 that Mary arose and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah.
It was not a short trip, we are not told how Mary got there, and Elizabeth was not expecting her.

"Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" exclaimed Elizabeth.
With Mary's arrival, Elizabeth received special inspiration from the Holy spirit:
"Why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord"

Wow, now that is a confirmation to Mary...
Isn't God good? He used Mary's aunt Elizabeth to meet her need at the time.
I can imagine how Mary must have been blessed at that moment by the wisdom of her aunt.

Elizabeth was 6 months with child, just like the angel had said. Her child would be John the Baptist, a prophet, and the forerunner of the Messiah, he would bring the simple message that Jesus is the Christ and that the kingdom of heaven was at hand.

And then we see Mary break out in praise. This scripture reminds me of the psalms of the old testament. it is called the Magnificat and I love it. In verses 46-55 Mary praises God, she recognizes her part as the mother of the incarnate Son of God, and she ends with the assurance that God's promise would be fulfilled.
The Messiah was coming!!!

"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden,
For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blesses;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is on those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm,
for he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts,
he has put down the mighty from their thrones,
and exalted those of low degree;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has ent empty away.
He has helped his servant Israel,
In remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his posterity for ever"

Mary stayed with her aunt for 3 more months. I can imagine their time together was a blessing for both. Both of these women were playing a major role in the fulfillment of God's promise to the nation of Israel.
Both of these women understood with a complete assurance within themselves,
"That nothing was impossible with God." Luke 1:37

Some Random Scoop after a week In Nebraska...

2011-12-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

It's late, but I thought I'd give you some scoop....

We have been here at Nebraska house for one week.

I was so tired for first three days that I just sat around.

I have enough boxes to unpack that it will take me weeks...Seriously.

It has snowed twice since we arrived, and was -11 one morning.

Joe and boys came to hunt.

Toby got sick with bad cough.

Art caught it.

I can't find clothes yet. Good thing I packed a bag:)

I think I will bake tomorrow...

My favorite Birds Are out Enjoying food...

I never get tired of photographing them. Look at that red color against the snow.

They make me smile...

I set up small tree for Christmas...

Nothing else this year:)

My cell phone is not working here...anyone who knows me knows I'm not happy about that.
I love texting...There is one spot in my bedroom that I can send a text..
I called Verizon...they can't fix it...or won't.. We might part ways.

My Arthritic knees are hurting so bad I can hardly get off couch. I wonder if its the cold weather?
I scrubbed my bathroom floor with knee pads today, and they work good.. knee pads I mean...
I have hardly done any Christmas shopping yet.
I'm sure grand kids will not understand if I skip Christmas.. Just kidding..sorta.

After one week here Art asked me if I'm going to like it. I told him to ask me in six months.
For now, I'm going to bed...Goodnight.

Christmas Memories

2011-12-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

"We recall the special Christmases that are like little landmarks in a life of a family."

Marjorie Holmes

Last year was a landmark Christmas for me and my family...

My youngest son Erik, and his family are missionaries and they were on furlough last year.

We were all together for Christmas.

This was the first time I had all my grandchildren in one place at one time.

It was special.

I have had some moments in the last few days just remembering some of the fun things
we did, and I'm sure we each have our own favorite memories.
There was
  shopping, decorating, lights and trees,
cooking and baking, hunting
cutting, cooking and eating the meat.
Sewing and games, reading and toys.
Movies, walking, biking , and snow.
Dishes and laundry, laundry and dishes.
Laughter and fun,and a birthday party or two.
It gives me pause, reflection and tears,but more than anything
  I'm thankful, really thankful for the time.

"There are always fleeting moments of sadness at Christmas. If they're only fleeting you're lucky." Andy Rooney.

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-02T13:57:00.001-07:00

HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING
Hark! The herald angels sings,
Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth,and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful, all ye nations rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th'angelic host proclaim,
Christ is born in Bethlehem!

refrain
Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glorify to the newborn King!
CHARLES WESLEY, 1707-1788

This hymn was written by Charles Wesley, brother to John Wesley, and one of the most prolific of all hymn writers. the Wesleys founded the Methodist movement in England in the mid-ninteenth century. They utilized hymns not only to direct worshipers' hearts to God, but also to teach the truth of the gospel. "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" helps answer the questions, "Who is Jesus Christ?" and "Why was He born?"

All around the world, people celebrate Christmas. Everyone does it in different ways. One of things I love the most is Christmas music. There are all kinds of songs, spiritual and contemporary, but I think the goal is to spread the "tidings of great joy".
I love to crank up the Christmas music during the month of December.
Truth is all year round.

Which is your favorite?

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day,
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
Their words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-01T07:58:00.001-07:00

Christmas Is...

Christmas is a magic time
when anything can happen,
When reindeer fly and children try
to see straight through gift wrappin'.

Christmas is a magic time for kids
and dogs and toys,
And a big red guy with an elf nearby
who enchants the girls and boys.

Christmas is a well-trimmed tree,
with presents underneath.
It's mistletoe, and ribbon bows,
and a home-made holly wreath.

Christmas is a family time
and a time of true thanksgiving
For the gift of life and that holy night,
and the privilege of living.

Through one more joyous Christmas day;
it's a gift from God above,
Because Christmas time is that day sublime
when we share Christ's gift...of love.
Criswell Freeman

Am I Really Moving?

2011-11-29T21:12:00.001-07:00

It is Tuesday night and tomorrow is moving day.....

RIGHT NOW, I AM ....

FEELING exhausted, when I finally do stop I might not move for a week.
THINKING that when I get to Nebraska I'm going to downsize even more.
LOOKING at stacks of boxes in my living room ready to be packed into the truck.
LETTING GO of my seashell bathroom, I gave my little sister all of my shells and pictures. I had no place to put them.
HOLDING ONTO all of my yarn. I couldn't bear to let any of it go.
EATING pizza for dinner. Not good for weight watchers, but tasted mighty good.
WRITING a list of 1000 things I am thankful for. I started in September and I am on #357. today I am THANKFUL that I've had the energy to get all this packing done. That Jon is moving in here. That Art is such a sweetie. That Jesus was born to give us eternal life. That today is my sister Dianne's 60th birthday.
WONDERING at how quickly time goes by. It is hard to believe that Di is 60 and I'm older than she is.
LISTENING to Christmas music most of the day. I'm liking it.
READING an old book, The Day Christ Was Born by Jim Bishop. It is making the Christmas Story come alive.
KNITTING a baby blanket.
TREASURING time. Every day is a blessing, something I shouldn't take for granted.
MOVING from here to there :-) well I am.
PREPARING to finish this post go finish cleaning my bathroom, and then going to bed.
WISHING you the same....Good Night.....

Christmas Countdown...

2011-11-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of advent. The word advent means coming. I love these four weeks before Christmas. The anticipation and preparation is as exciting for me as the day itself. I thought it might be fun to do some Christmas sharing as we countdown to the coming of Christmas.
Maybe some recipes, stories, quotes, scripture just some things that I find fun and interesting during the season.

The promise of Christ is the very reason for Christmas.
When I promise my grandchildren something, they get excited.
"Please Grandma, can I have it NOW? I don't want to wait."
God made many promises to the nation of Israel and the most important was the promise for the Messiah.
For thousands of years the people waited, anticipated and prepared for the coming of God's salvation through the Messiah.
At Christmas time we celebrate the fulfillment of his promise in the birth of Jesus.

The story begins in the Book of Luke Chapter 1.
Read today starting in verse 26-38 about the Angel Gabriel coming to Mary. He tells her the part she will play in the coming of the Messiah.

"The whole meaning of Christmas can be summed up in the miracle of Christ's birth."
Arthur Bryant
"The son of God became man to enable men to become sons of God."
C. S. Lewis
My countdown to Christmas starts with the Promise of Christmas.

Moving Update...

2011-11-27T12:22:00.001-07:00

Okay it's Sunday noon and I need a break. I've been at it all morning. I have two clean bedrooms, one clean bathroom, and my bedroom is almost done. Well sorta.

There are just some things a grandma can't get rid of.
Art and I had this conversation before he left.
"We can give these toys away. Pause...Right?" he said.

" Nope," I responded. thinking ~~don't be stupid~~ don't be silly.
"Those are Toby' s toys and Joel's when he is here. They love to take them all out and put them all back in."

"But we have toys in Nebraska," he said.
"Not those. Sorry they love them. We will have to move them." Smile....
Don't worry boys grandma has your back.

Art and Sage are on their way home with a detour to Cabellas. Seriously.

The cats haven't moved. They are still watching the lizard run around the cage. Marshall doesn't realize that there is glass between him and Lizzie.
He's frustrated. He keeps running into it, and Lizzie is laughing.

I didn't find my underwear so I washed it.

There are 45 steps to the trash area, 90 round trip. I've walked 360 steps today.
I feel better:)

GoodWill loves me.

Pumpkin Spice coffee is still around. I'm enjoying it right now.

Turning the Christmas music off to watch the Broncos this afternoon.
I like Tebow...just saying.

I guess everyone else hates moving...Where is everyone when you need them?
I can't even get them to answer the phone.
You know who you are...:)

And I will end with a reality check..
Life is going on while I pack.
People are suffering and dying all around me.
Someone in my extended family died this morning.
I wasn't there, but I am praying.
I'm sad.

Can't stop for to long...
Bye.....

Happy Birthday Joel

2011-11-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

Joel enjoying his birthday party!!!

Happy Birthday Joel....

Some Random Scoop 2 days after Thanksgiving...

2011-11-26T11:11:00.001-07:00

I needed a break.

Maybe its time for some random thoughts from me....

Thanksgiving was nice and quiet for the family

Joe smoked the perfect turkey.. a beauty huh.

Art took another load out to Nebraska yesterday, this time he took

Sage. We were both thankful for his help.

I seriously am not moving again, I am getting to old.

Mom used to say," never say never."

Okay but I plan to stay put for a while.

Mom and I did some shopping yesterday.

How insane has shopping become the day after Thanksgiving?

It used to be fun.

Now you have to be careful you don't get into a fight.

We ended up at the knit shop and it was safe there.

Well, bodily safe. not financially:) it was fun though.

Time for a haircut and color

That could be a fun break...

Arthritis behind the knees is painful..

I'm wearing knee pads to scrub floors.

Snowing in the mountains, just cool and windy in town.

Supposed to warm up. I love Colorado weather.

My kitties have found a new past time.

I had to move the lizard to a new spot, and The cats can't take their eyes off her.

Lizzie Lu, doesn't seem to mind. She runs all over the cage taunting them.

Don't worry she is safe.

I just finished a book on Queen Elizabeth, the first one. It was fun.

It's Time to bring out the Christmas books and music.

I have to find them first.

I love Christmas music, I'm listening to "The Little Drummer Boy" as I write.

I couldn't find underwear this morning.

Art probably took it with him.

You'd never know from these pictures that I'm really getting it done.
My underwear is probably in one of those piles:)
I'm downsizing really....

Today, I'm thankful I have the energy and ability to pack.

Don't want to take it for granted.

I lost 6 lbs. at Weight Watchers, and probably gained back

3 of it on Thanksgiving, but take another look at this

turkey. How could anyone resist it?

November and December are busy birthday times for my grandchildren.
Joel turned 6 in November.
David will be 11 in December.
Sweet little Toby will be 5 in December.
And my first grandson, Jon will be 22 in December.
While various nieces and nephews also have birthdays these months.
Happy Birthday guys!!!!

Better stop now before I loose momentum.
Time to get back to work.
Bye.....

For Food We Give Thanks...

2011-11-23T19:03:00.002-07:00

For health and food,
For love and friends;
For everything Thy goodness sends,
We thank Thee...Ralph Waldo Emerson 1803-1882

I stood in WHOLE FOODS GROCERY today and was really overwhelmed.

We have so much available here...

So much to be thankful for.

The bakery is my fav of course..it was hard to pick, but

the pumpkin cream cheese cake won out...

Art couldn't get past the canberry nut bread...

I recockon we will miss the grocery store when we move.
For today I stood in that store and was overwhelmed, and I had no
choice but to give thanks.

Today I'm Thankful...

2011-11-22T20:30:00.001-07:00

You only are the maker of all things near & far.
You paint the wayside flower.
You light the evening star.
The winds & waves obey.
By You the birds are fed; much more
to us your children.
You gave our daily bread.
We thank you then Creator,
for all things bright and good.
The seed time & the harvest.
Our life, our health, our food. Amen
MATTHIAS CLAUDIUS 1740-1815

God is God, and He is Good. This week He has been good to Danielle and her family.

I'm thankful that sweet baby Danielle, who had her palette surgery last week is doing well. She is still in pain but sleeping and eating. It will be a slow recovery, but she is amazingly strong, and so are her parents.
Read full story at her mom's blog.
What a blessing it is for me to stand back and watch this little one. I don't understand and I can't give
an explanation as to why she has had to suffer, but I know her short life has affected many people, and they have been blessed also.
So Today I am Thankful God for Your working in Danielle's life ....

Giving Thanks....

2011-11-21T18:28:00.001-07:00

."Oh my God, for providing senses to enjoy delights,
for thy royal bounty providing my daily support,
for a full table and an overflowing cup,
for appetite, taste, sweetness, for social joys of
relatives and friends, for opportunities of spreading
happiness around,
for loved ones in the joys of heaven,
I love Thee above the powers of language to express,
For what Thou art to Thy creatures. Amen..
17th century Puritan Meditation

Its Thanksgiving week. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holiday. It's simple, it's family, it's fun.

Still Packing....

2011-11-20T21:54:00.001-07:00

I'm packing away today, and finding things that I thought I'd lost.
I was doing pretty well until I came across a box of old pictures and found this one.
There is nothing like pictures to stir up memories and feelings.
I spent a while having a good cry.

When this picture was taken I had only these three grandsons.
Jon was around 9, John Mark a baby, and Sage around four or five.
I had dressed the boys in fancy clothes, and I took pictures in my living room.
Time goes by so fast...
John Mark turned 13 this year, Jon is 21 with his own child on the way, Sage is a junior in highschool, and now I have 5 more grandchildren. .
Time flies by, but the memories are like they happened yesterday.
I'm thankful for the memories, and I will take this little treasure and put it in a safe place.

Let It Snow....

2011-11-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

We woke to this yesterday morning...

We had no idea it was going to snow...

The birds didn't seem to mind..

maybe cause the bird bath is heated..

The kittys didn't seem to mind....

We didn't seem to mind...

we had no place to go, we could watch and enjoy

the snow and the silence....

We are back home today..
I have two weeks to finish packing and cleaning.

Sunrise....

2011-11-15T09:07:00.004-07:00

The sunrise from my porch

this morning

was beautiful....

Some one else was enjoying it also...

Now you can enjoy it.....

What Cole Was Doing This Weekend....

2011-11-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

Coles First Buck....

A Book Lover.....

2011-11-12T17:36:00.001-07:00

I finally got all my notes and journals gone through, packed and ready to move, and now I've started on my books.

I love books and reading. I usually have at least two books going at once, like an oreo cookie, or ham and cheese sandwich. I think going back and forth is ~~mentally challenging~~ mentally stimulating for my brain.

Now that I have my online bookstores, I have books everywhere. I have a stack that I want to read. Besides my special stash I have my Kindle. I have over 100 books many are unread. I will download a book that looks interesting . I figure I will get to them eventually.

My love for books goes back to seventh grade, and the great books club. I still have two or three of those original books. They are in tattered condition but I'm not about to get rid of them. I guess they will go when I go.

I like to read all kinds of books.
As an adult I've reread some of the classics. Last year I read "To Kill a Mocking Bird" and I was enthralled by the story and the writing. I remember reading it in highschool, but not enjoying it.
I loved "The Old Man and The Sea " by Ernest Hemingway. I couldn't put it down. It was a quick read, and I found myself feeling sorry for the old man. A feeling that stayed with me for days.

There is nothing better than a good children's book.
Cole and I read the first Narnia book together again. I would read a page and he would read a page. It was fun.
Children's books are a great way to learn about a subject.
Did you know that baby Orcas are called calfs, and they are eight feet long and weigh 400 lbs. at birth.
Did you know that Wood ants are tiny, but they have sharp jaws and they can squirt acid from their bodies. This acid can kill another bug for the entire nest to eat.
Yep, I'm just saying.....
I remember reading " Where The Red Fern Grows" to the boys last year. It was so scary. I couldn't believe I was reading what I was reading. They loved it and so did I .

I love history books. I go through phases. I had my Henry the VII phase. I read everything I could get my hands on about him, his wives, and children. He wasn't a very nice man. All he ever wanted was a male heir. He banished one wife, cut off the head of another, and married four more in the quest. Eventually his daughter Elizabeth not his son would become one of England's most beloved monarchs.

In my collecting I am acquiring a love for cookbooks. There are literally thousands of them. Most all cook books have great pictures. I dream of making some of those recipes.

I give myself permission to abandon a book if it doesn't hold my attention. I will give it 40 to 50 pages and if I'm not hooked, I will move on. It is not worth my time. I don't know how much more good quality reading time I have left in me. I'm not getting younger.

I really didn't mean to get off on a book tangent. All this being said, I really just wanted to say. I have LOTS of books to sort, pack, and move. They are heavy to carry. In the end I will eventually get it done, but for now I'm overrun with books, and times a wasting.

Just A Note...

2011-11-05T21:50:00.000-06:00

I hate moving, and we are moving. Finally going to our house in Nebraska. We've had this house for probably ten years. Ten years Art has been preparing to retire in this place. Ten years I've been putting it off in my mind figuring that I'd deal with it if and when it happened. I'm not sure if this was denial or just living in the moment, but it's happening now, and we are packing.

We've lived here around 21 years. I don't consider myself a hoarder, but really were did all this stuff come from?
I've always kept a journal, but I'm amazed how many I have. I just keep finding them. And then there are the notes...Notes to myself of course.

Notes with conversations I have had with my mom, my grandchildren, my sons.
Notes from a sermon
Notes that are patterns,many without names, not sure how I planned to make them
Notes that are prayers, prayers that are notes
Notes that are to do lists
Notes that are lists of things done
Notes that are blog posts
Notes that are recipes
Notes from Vanuatu
Notes that are doodles

And it goes on and on....
I've thrown away a few trash bags, but I can't possibly throw all those notes away because after all I plan to write a book and I could use some of those notes, and now I will finally have the time.
That is if I ever get moved.

Stay tuned.....

Speaking of Baby Danielle...

2011-11-01T20:50:00.002-06:00

Speaking of Danielle in my last post. I could not resist this Picture.
Could this be cuter? Danielle is on the right with her little friend Kahlon.
Love it.

Whats Been HAPPENING...

2011-11-01T20:30:00.000-06:00

Lots going on here....

I'm ~~happily~~ busy trying to pack. You cannot believe how much stuff one can accumulate in one place after 20 years.

We had Moving Sale this weekend. It was ~~a bust~~ not to successful.

It was more work than it was worth, but I did get all that stuff out of my house.

What was left went to the Good Will.

I'm sure we will see the Good Will again and again before this is over.

Halloween is not my favorite holiday...actually it is my least favorite

holiday but I love a pumpkin patch.

The boys liked it last weekend.

They carved pumpkins yesterday....

We've had beautiful weather this week, but a snow storm is coming in tonight. Might get
4-6 inches here, more in the mountains.

I went back to Weight Watchers last week, and I made vegetable soup today. Very good...
Why is it harder to loose weight than gain it?

I'm having lunch with my younger brother tomorrow. He is right down the street from the Big Fat Cupcake Shop...They have coconut cupcakes to die for. To bad I'm on a diet. HHmmmm....
Tomorrow is weigh in day....Doesn't everyone ~~cheat~~ eat on weigh in day:)

Jon is moving in here if we ever get out. Actually, we promised we'd be out by Dec. 1. I have a deadline.

One of my favorite things right now is Pumpkin Spice Lattes, they are truly one of the best things about Fall.

I am knitting a Pink Cowl..
I like it.
Maybe I'll get it done and wear it in the snow tomorrow.

I'm reading a book by Patsy Clairmont, she signed it for me when I bought it.
I'm liking my vintage book store. I sold two books this week, and put on a Life Magazine from
the moon walk. check it out.

Every news show I saw today had a story on it about someone named Kim Kardashian.
72 days married...Really?... News?
Okay I know who she is.

Sweet Baby Danielle is having mouth surgery this month. This one will be a hard one.
Please pray for her and her family.

I'm doing a devotional at Bible Study next week. I think I might talk about being Thankful.

We heard from Erik today...All is well on the island of Tanna.
My Joel will be 6 this month. He lost his first tooth last week.
I must get their Christmas package out this week.

Art is fine, he cleaned the kitchen cupboards this afternoon. We fought over what bowls to keep.
Have I mentioned he is into Pyrex right now. He's unwilling to part with any of it.

It's late, and Dancing With the Stars is on T.V.
Gotta Go...

What Art Was Up To This Weekend...

2011-10-25T19:26:00.000-06:00

10 POINT WHITETAIL DEER
NICE JOB ...

Check It Out....

2011-10-11T19:39:00.000-06:00

I've opened a new Etsy Vintage Book Store!

If I could own any kind of shop It would be a bookstore along with a coffee shop.

I don't have the coffee, but I do have some pretty unique old books, along

with some other fun things that I've found in my travels.

check it out www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageBookman

I've added some pics to give you an idea what you will find....

It's a Dog's Life....

2011-10-06T22:25:00.002-06:00

Remember Bentley?
I dog sat today, and we had a conversation...

ME: heh Bentley! wanna talk?
bentley: yea,yea,yea, where's the cat food?

ME: well I put it up cause you have your little sister bella with you,and she gets sick when she eats it.
bentley: MAN OH MAN.... she runs the family now.

ME: but Bentley, you are a big brother. that's special...
bentley: she is bigger than me.

ME: did you say hi to the cats?
bentley: no

ME: I've missed you Bentley.
bentley: will you rub my tummy?

ME: are you the one who got water all over the floor?
bentley: no it was bella. sometimes she walks in the dish.

ME: lets go for a walk, shall we?
bentley: I thought you'd never ask. can we leave bella here?

MEET BELLA...SHORT FOR ISABELLA
BENTLEYS LITTLE SISTER...

I'm Tired.....

2011-10-05T08:43:00.000-06:00

I'm tired..
I feel like I need to update and blog ,but I'm tired so for now, I'm going to give some scoop in sentences.
I'm packing to move. You can't believe how much stuff we have.I'm having a moving sale.
We keep putting it off. I need to mark for the sale. I'm getting to old to move.
I told the lady whose house I've cleaned for 22 years that I'm quitting because I'm moving. We cried but both know it's time. It's Fall here in town, and beautiful. Art is delighted we are moving. I like cool Fall breezes. I boxed up my dolls yesterday. I couldn't bear to part with them. I'm packing the bears today. I can't bear to part with them:) Silly...I started a new etsy vintage bookstore. I'm having fun with it. Check it out www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageBookman Did I say I'm tired? Yesterday was Sage's birthday, he was 17. Amazing how time goes by. I made a picture book for Joel last night on Vista Print. Made me happy. We had fun on furlough. Miss my grand kids. They are doing good except for boils, infected scrapes, and cuts. Did you know you can eat everything on a bat but the fur and bones. I knew you'd like knowing that. Its time to get flu shots. John Mark told me about the bats. I'm knitting a round baby blanket so cute. Art made some great white chicken chili yesterday. I am on a diet again. Joanne and I went to Women Of Faith this weekend. It was so much fun. I'm tired. I like my new Bible Study it is on prayer. My lizard is still alive and kicking. He likes to climb the side of the tank. He eats meal worms. Jon is moving into our condo when we move. I need a haircut. We are having a birthday party for Sage this weekend. Art is going to Nebraska this week with some stuff. He is taking the cats. The trees are changing colors in town. We are going for a bike ride. My knees hurt. I'm tired. Oh did I say we're moving?:)

Where In The World Have We Been

2011-09-27T19:07:00.000-06:00

Art says that this place is the loneliest place in the world.... if you are alone..

I'm not sure if this is true, but I think it is the prettiest in the Fall....

Toby liked what he saw....

Can you see him? He was the biggest elk I've ever seen, but he was really far away...it was
the best picture I could get..

We were at Deep Lake on the Flat Tops of Colorado....

THE SCOOP FROM HERE....

2011-08-26T23:24:00.003-06:00

The Cat is hanging out in the window...
The Temperature today was close to 100 degrees.
It took us 2 days to get the grass cut and the weeds pulled.
The cows are mooing in the field behind the house. They are black.
The borrow ditch in the front of Nebraska house is filled with sunflowers...probably
the closest I'll get to my field of sunflowers.

Art is watching a movie while sleeping in his chair:)
I opened a new vintage bookstore on Etsy today.

Some of Art's harvest, he has a thing about cooking pumpkin. I can't complain cause he makes great pumpkin pies.
We had squash and corn for dinner....

My New pumpkin hat I just finished...cute huh?
I'm going to make a blueberry hat next.
It might rain here tomorrow.
The hail last week ruined some of the corn fields.
I'm praying for the people on the East Coast this weekend.
I'm reading the Lincoln Lawyer Series of books, there are three of them. I
downloaded them on my Kindle.
My cell phone is not working here.

My Kiowa grandsons started school this week.
I miss my Vanuatu family. We haven't heard much from them
their e-mail is not working.
We are heading back to the city tomorrow.

Well I'm sure there is more I could scoop,but I'm to tired to think about it anymore.
I'll say Goodnight instead.....

Better Late Than Never....

2011-08-24T12:00:00.006-06:00

This post is late in coming, but better late than never don't they say?
Last month I went to Seattle to visit my niece, and her family.
I was only there a week, and we were really busy.

Remember those beautiful daughters she has?

This is Samantha who had her two year old birthday party while I was there.

We had a Mickey Mouse Party..... You know forever hold your banner high?
I digress...that's the Mickey mouse club song for you youngsters that don't know.

Just for Sam.
We had a picnic outdoors with burgers, brats, and mickey mouse cupcakes.
My very favorite was the chocolate fountain with strawberries, but have you ever
had gummi bears dipped in chocolate?
MMMMM....

Besides eating, everyone got to swim, play games, and open presents of course....lots and lots of presents.

Uncle John and girl friend Carrisa
Great time had by all...
HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY SAMANTHA

Do you remember Sister number 2?

Danielle...A few months back I shared her story with you.
www.stapescoop-kas.blogspot.com/2011/04/bittersweet.html
She was born with a cleft palate.
Just before I arrived she had her first surgery.

Check Out this Sweet Baby Girl....

Doesn't she look beautiful?
She still has a long road ahead of her this was only the first of many surgeries, but she has that beautiful smile that her mother was praying for.
A blessing indeed....

There you go..the continuing saga of two little sisters.
Better late than Never:)

I Want One:)

2011-08-19T18:32:00.000-06:00

Is there anything as beautiful as a sunflower?

Maybe a whole field of them?

I told Art to get rid of the alfalfa and plant me a field of these beauties:)

Today I'm back...

2011-08-14T20:45:00.001-06:00

I've been off the blog for a month, sometimes, there are no words, this month was one of those times. I have had some family stuff that needed attention, I took a trip to Seattle to see my grand nieces, and I have spent some time with my grand kids before they go back to school.
That being said, I thought I'd share with you what I did TODAY....

TODAY...My oldest grandson woke me with a text at 6:10 A.M. He had a blog he wanted me to read and discuss with him. Guess since he had been at work since five he thought he'd wake me. I love that boy. I really do.

TODAY...Cole woke and checked his trap to find a raccoon. We loaded the trap in the car and headed down the road to find a good spot to let him go, away from our house.
He was hissing at us, I guess he didn't realize he was lucky to be alive.

TODAY...Cole, my grandson, asked if I would take him fishing.

TODAY...~~With hesitation,~~ I agreed. He found grandpa's pole and we headed for the lake.
did I mention we left grandpa at home in the big city to work. It is just the two of us this weekend.

TODAY... We stopped to get gas and I spent my last three dollars on a breakfast burrito, an 11 year old is always hungry:)

TODAY...While getting gas a praying mantis landed on my hand. Cole demanded a picture before we let him go.

TODAY...I had to find worms with no money. I found $2.50 in change in the car, Cole was happy with his worms.

TODAY...We didn't catch fish, but we found a...

Turtle....

A Secada....

A Frog...

And A Snake....

TODAY... I spent two hours in the hospital with Cole.

He needed six stitches in his arm.

He accidentally cut his wrist while cleaning his lizard cage.

TODAY...I barbecued brots for dinner, watched a movie and played Yahtzee with Cole.

TODAY...I went to bed early. It was a long day.

I only have eyelids for you...

2011-07-09T20:47:00.003-06:00

About three weeks ago my sister from San Antonio came for a visit.
The three of us girls and my mom were sitting around eating cupcakes and drinking coffee, catching up on our lives. You know talking about things like work, health, other family members, and of course growing older. We discussed our physical changes, comparing our chins, wrinkles, and finally our droopy eyelids. I had to admit that my once wide open eyes have changed, and it seemed to happen overnight.
I went to bed with my normal face, all was as it should be, but when I woke up I couldn't find my eyelashes to put my mascara on.

I've tried lots of the eye creams. I faithfully used one for weeks, but I never could find my eyelashes. I guess once those pesky eyelids fall no amount of cream is going to make a difference.

My more knowledgeable sister told us there is a surgery and if it is a health problem it might even be covered by insurance. We weighed the pro's and con's of the surgery, and I decided it probably was one I'd pass on at least for now, but then later in the week, I went for a periphal vision test. I've had several, but this time I actually had to concentrate on keeping my eyes open wide so I could see the lights. It got even worse when they deadened my eyes to check my pressure. For half an hour it felt like my eye lids were sitting on my cheeks. I wonder if they would consider this a health problem?

I'm not sure why I'm sharing, except to say as my old grandmother used to,
"That it is ~~h==l,~~ heck getting old."

And it helps to express it. Just like it helps to be thankful. Thankful that I've reached this age, and I'm healthy as I am.
Bible says " A Gray head is a sign of glory."
Doesn't say anything about those pesky drooping eye lids though...

Grandma Times....

2011-07-05T20:27:00.001-06:00

This Morning Toby came flying around the corner...

"Grandma, Grandma, we found a mouse. Where is the cat?"
"I don't know you will have to look for the cat."
"Okay."

Running off, seconds later, he came back around the corner.

"Oh Grandma, I forgot this is for you." Smiling he handed me a dandelion.
"I love you Grandma."

Then he took off to find the cat.
It's Good Being A Grandma.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY....

2011-07-04T07:36:00.002-06:00

America The Beautiful....
OH BEAUTIFUL FOR SPACIES SKIES

FOR AMBER WAVES OF GRAIN....

FOR PURPLE MOUNTAINS MAJESTY...
ABOVE THE FRUITED PLAIN

AMERICA, AMERICA...
GOD SHED HIS GRACE ON THEE,
AND CROWN THY GOOD WITH BROTHERHOOD
FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA...
written by Katherine Lee Bates, after an inspiring trip to the top of the Pikes Peak in 1893.

I love our country, so many beautiful and different places to see..
On this Fourth of July my prayer is that God will show His Mercy and Grace and
continue to bless this great nation....

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICA

What Did YOU Do Today?

2011-07-03T07:35:00.001-06:00

A LITTLE TOAD HUNTING....

A LITTLE FISHING.....

AND ALONG THE WAY I CAN'T FORGET I'M NOW THE PROUD OWNER
OF THREE NEBRASKA RACE RUNNER LIZARDS. COLE HAS DECIDED THAT SINCE HE HAS NO SPACE AT HIS HOUSE THEY WILL TAKE UP RESIDENCE AT MINE. :)
DON'T TELL ANYONE BUT I LIKE THE LITTLE GUYS....

WE ARE HAVING FUN THIS FOURTH OF JULY....
HOW ABOUT YOU?

IT WAS A LONG DAY:)

2011-06-27T11:49:00.002-06:00

I caught them all in the act of napping Sunday afternoon...

What's Happening with Grandpa In Nebraska?

2011-06-23T07:44:00.000-06:00

They may be ugly, but they taste really good....

And they are way fun to catch...

Just Some Scoop....

2011-06-20T20:58:00.001-06:00

It rained all day here and it was cool. The blue sky peeked through around 4p.m.
I spent the last week with my mom and sisters. One of my sisters lives here, one came to visit from San Antonio. We had a sleepover, watched movies,shopped, and ate some good food. We went to the cupcake shop, my favorite were the coconut cupcakes, but the red velvet came in a close second. I baked a yellow cake with chocolate frosting, both my sisters favorite.
Art is in Nebraska and spent Fathers Day with one of his sons and two of his grandsons. They caught a few catfish. It has rained and flooded this afternoon in Neb. Erik called from Vanuatu for Fathers Day.
I'm reading a book about P.T. Barnum.
My oldest grandson did his laundry at my house today, his washer and dryer is broke at his apartment. I went to water aerobics this morning, first time in weeks. It felt good.
I sold a little golden book yesterday called ME AND MY DOLL.
My daughter-in-law, Stephanie has a birthday this week, and so does my Grandson Cole. Erik and Michele celebrate an anniversary.
I dog sat Bentley this week. We took a walk. He was happy to see me.
I miss Art.
I'm sure there is lots more scoop I could share, but I'm tired and going to bed.
Good Night.

Home is where your nest is.....

2011-06-17T20:04:00.002-06:00

Do you remember this perfect little house made by my husband.
I wondered at the time if a birdie would find this little
shelter and make it his own.

Well, would you just check this out...
This tiny wren has made this castle his home, and it's looking like there might be babies.

She is building a nest...

I want a turtle...

2011-06-15T20:36:00.002-06:00

A Few Days Ago Cole and I went to Nebraska just to hang out....
The weather was warm and breezy.
One day Cole decided that he wanted to go to the Lake and see if he could
find a Turtle?

A turtle Huh?
Well I've seen them here, but not often.
Cole found a plastic container, put some holes in the top, and he was good to go.
Seriously I was not to concerned that we would be confronted with what to do
with a turtle if we found one because you know I didn't think we'd find one:)

I was hanging out enjoying the scenery and talking to a perfect stranger who just happened
to come over and start up a conversation with me when Cole took off.

An hour later, here comes Cole with his find and it wasn't a turtle....

The boy had a snake, and not a small one...
The snake was a tannish pink color

We had no clue what kinda of snake, at least it had no rattles, but he did start to wrap himself around Cole's leg.
Cole was pretty happy, but it didn't take to much persuasion to convince him to let it go back into the wild
especially after the snake climbed right out of the holes in the bucket.

We didn't find a turtle....

But we did find the cutest Lizard...and he has found a new home

He loves crickets and Cole:)

Bird Braining....

2011-06-09T11:48:00.002-06:00

How does that old saying go?
Birds of a Feather flock together?
My mom used to remind me of that when I was a teenager.
I know its true. If I see the male Cardinal, I know I'm sure to see
the female cardinal close by, but I know that's not the point my mom
was trying to make.

Look close and you can see the female to the left...she is not at pretty as the male.
that seems to be the case often in the bird world.

She would also say, Karen you are being bird brained right
now, meaning I was not thinking clearly or I was being flighty.
Well this blog post is finding me bird brained again....

Not in the way she meant, but I do have birds on the brain.
I have become a bird lover.
I can't believe how many kinds of birds God created.
Here in Nebraska we have some great birdies in my backyard.

I have my favorites, the Cardinal is at the top of my list.
I am the grandmother of 7 grandsons. 2 of them can hit a bird with
a sling shot and a stone from a half a mile away...okay so I exaggerate , but not
much. The other two are pretty good with a rifle. I have given them
explicit orders that the birds in the back yard are OFF LIMITS...TOTALLY.

I saw a turkey this morning. They are so beautiful when they are strutting
and have those feathers all spread out, but those heads,
what happened to those heads? They are so ugly.

There is a pheasant hanging out in my backyard lately, he sounds like
a car horn with a cold.
I missed a picture this morning, but I'm on a mission to get one for you.
He is a beauty, and he is officially OFF LIMITS . I know
that everyone will need reminding when hunting season rolls around.

And check out these guys.....

Aren't they beautiful?

There is a scripture in Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are YOU not worth much more than they?"

The Birds are just a reminder of how Special You Are to God...
I just thought I'd remind you today :)

Baby Danielle Update

2011-06-04T20:59:00.006-06:00

Baby Danielle a week after surgery.

Isn't she beautiful?

She is doing really well.

Still struggling some with eating, but she is a happy baby.

When I look at her I am just overwhelmed with the changes.

She is a little miracle!!!

Check out the whole story on her mom's blog

http://www.dhlandis.blogspot.com/

You might want to read stapescoop-kas.blogspot.com/2011/01/oh-yes-you-shaped-me-inside-then-out.html

stapescoop-kas.blogspot.com/2011/01/i-arrived-in-seattle-safely-aeek-ago-at.html

Cheddar Cheese Grits Casserole

2011-06-03T19:34:00.001-06:00

The last week we were in Chicago, Michele was on a mission to get rid of all the food that was in the cupboards, freezer, and refrigerator. We had all kinds of good stuff, sometimes we ate it for days until it was gone, sometimes what we had together was not necessarily what one would normally put together, but we were never hungry, and it was fun to see what Michele would bring out next.

Sunday was the day they were leaving and she still had a couple of packages of chicken legs left.

One of the missionaries in the complex offered to barbecue them for us and she brought along a side dish or two to go along with the chicken .

This Cheddar Cheese Grits Casserole was one of the side dishes. We devoured them along with the chicken. Best grits I've ever had. Allison was kind enough to share the recipe with me. YUMMY.....

Cheddar Cheese Grits Casserole

Taken from 1001 ways to cook Southern cookbook.

Cook and crumble 6 slices of bacon to sprinkle on top after you pull out of oven. I think she used bacon bits from Michele's cupboard, they were good.

4 Cups milk

1/4 Cup butter

1 Cup uncooked quick cooking grits

1 Large egg slightly beaten

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 Cup grated Parmesan

1. Preheat oven to 350. Bring milk to boil in large saucepan over medium hot heat. Gradually whisk in grits and butter. Reduce heat and simmer, whisking constantly.

5-7 minutes until grits are done. Remove from heat.

2. Stir in egg and next 3 ingredients. Pour in lightly greased. 11x7 baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese.

Baked covered 350 for 35-40 minutes until mixture is set.

Serve immediately, though ours did not come immediate and it was still yummy.

She substituted 1 cup pepper jack cheese with 1 cup mild cheddar.

Good Stuff....ENJOY...