Mangia E Statti Zitto

Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-11-13T18:26:00.000-08:00

This is a favorite of mine. I got it from a magazine a few years ago and it is my go to recipe. I love that I can make big cookies or small. It is a soft dough, so don't panic when you scoop it out. Enjoy!

4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 c. creamy peanut butter
2/3 c. sugar
2 1/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/3 c. vegetable oil
3 large eggs, PLUS 2 yolks
2 T. vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 deg. Place racks in upper and lower thirds of oven.
Makes 40 +/- jumbo cookies

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl.

Beat together buyer, peanut butter, sugars and oil with an electric mixer at high speed just until pale and creamy (about 2 minutes in a stand mixer; longer if using a hand mixer). Add whole eggs, yolks and vanilla and beat until just incorporated. Reduce speed to low, then add flour mixture slowly, mixing until well incorporated.

Using a large ice cream scoop, scoop dough and place on ungreased cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Flatten the cookies with the floured tines of a fork making a cross hatch pattern. Cookies should be about 1/2" thick. For smaller cookies use a cookie scoop that scoops 3 T.

To determine the size of your scoop, fill with water and then empty into a measuring cup to see what size you have.

Bake cookies, switching position of the sheets half way thru the baking until they are slightly puffed and golden around the edges. Transfer to racks to cool. On the next batch, transfer the racks to the middle of the oven and cook until slightly puffed and golden.

Cooking times: for jumbo cookies - 18 to 20 minutes
for smaller cookies 15-17 minutes

Elongated Stitch Dishcloth

2011-10-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

My neighbor asked me to make this for her. It was a dishcloth that her great-grandmother had for her and she hasn't been able to find anyone to make them for her. I learned how to make an elongated stitch while learning this. The dishcloth looks uneven in this pic, but really isn't. I may have been trying to even it out for the pic and open up the stitches, but it really is square.

Size 7 needles
Cotton Yarn

CO 38 stitches

Knit for 8 rows (garter stitch)
Row 9: Inset needle into stitch as to knit. Wrap needle twice, then draw thru the stitch. Repeat for the entire row.
Row 10: Knit row, dropping the extra wrap as stitch is pulled off the left needle.
Knit 7 rows (for a total of 8 knit rows - Row 10-17)

Repeat rows 9-17 to size desired, ending with a garter stitch row (don't end on the wrap row, but the row before).

Bind off

2011-09-11T18:56:00.001-07:00

Star Coasters

By LaDonna Maxwell

Materials needed:

Left over cotton yarn (app. 100 yds)

Size 6 knitting needles

Darning needle

Cast on 21 stitches

Rows 1-3 knit

Row 4: K2, P17, K2

Row 5: K2, K17, K2

Row 6: K2, P3, K1, P9, K1, P3, K2

Row 7: K2, K3, P3, K5, P3, K3, K2

Row 8: K2, P4, K3, P3, K3, P4, K2

Row 9: K2, K4, P9, K4, K2

Row 10: K2, P4, K9, P4, K2

Row 11: K2, K5, P7, K5, K2

Row 12: K2, P5, K7, P5, K2

Row 13: K2, K4, P9, K4, K2

Row 14: K2, P3, K11, P3, K2

Row 15: K2, K2, P13, K2, K2

Row 16: K2, P1, K15, P1, K2

Row 17: K2, K6, P5, K6, K2

Row 18: K2, P7, K3, P7, K2

Row 19: K2, K7, P3, K7, K2

Row 20: K2, P8, K1, P8, K2

Row 21: K2, K8, P1, K8, K2

Row 22: K2, P17, K2

Row 23: K2, K17, K2

Row 24: K2, P17, K2

Row 25-27 - Knit

Bind off.

Hide ends with the darning needles. Block to 4.25 x 4.25

Week 6 - Am I there yet????

2011-04-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

No, seriously, I am not done yet. Just thought it'd be a good post title. Well, last week was has been and gone. I didn't have a bad week. It seems to be more of a routine in my life that I watch what I eat. I have "splurged" a little, but even then I was careful of how much I ate. I discovered Emerald Cocoa Roasted Almonds. They have 1 g. of sugar per serving! They are awesome and have a crunch. That is the part I miss about eating chips - the crunch.

I tried on my pair of pants again on Monday - the buttonhole is a little bit closer.....I'm getting there. Slow and steady wins the race. My birthday was on Monday. Sunday I had a piece of chocolate cake. Figured I'm not going to die by eating just one piece. One piece. Seems like such a huge step. Not that I would eat the whole cake, but that I actually quit eating. I didn't even finish the piece.

I've noticed I have a little bit more energy than I did last week. I think I'll start exercising next week. That's the plan.

Week 5 - Still Plugging Along......

2011-04-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

Another week gone by and a few lessons learned.

Soooo, I had a pretty good week overall. No big pitfalls. It seems like I'm getting a handle on self-control - almost....

I think trying to find snacks in this new eating lifestyle has been the hardest. I was so excited last week to find chips made out of refried beans. I think they're called "Beanitos". They were "ok". They satisfied the crunch desire, but I'm still out on the taste. It's just not tortilla chips, no matter how hard I try. But I did get to eat some salsa and chips, so it's all good!

I've tried a variety of nuts as snacks. I really like almonds, but not all the time. So, I've ventured out to pecans, walnuts, and nut mixes. However, I found some cocoa almonds that are to die for! I think they are by Emerald Nuts and WOW! Only 1 g. of sugar per serving. I can definitely live with that.

Cheese - I love cheese, but only certain ones. I've decided I don't like the string cheese that is half cheddar and half mozarella. It just doesn't work for me. I like the pepper jack and the co-jack sticks tho so they are always in my fridge.

I broke down and bought sugar free jello to make. I love jello. BUT, and this is a big "BUT" for me. I'm allergic to aspertame. It gives me migranes like you wouldn't believe. So, diet sodas and sugar free stuff is usually out for me. What to do, what to do???.... So, I found some Excederin Migrane and took it BEFORE I ate the jello! End result, dull ache, but no full blown migraine. There is hope :-)

So, what does this all mean in relation to my weight loss so far........well, I tried on a pair of pants that I haven't worn in almost 6 years (honestly, how many of you keep pants that don't fit you anymore for THAT long??? I think I have slight hoarder tendencies.) and (drumroll here) I got them on AND wore them to church! How cool is that??!! I honestly didn't think about trying them on until Sunday morning. Never dreamed I could get them on, let alone wear them! That has given me an incentive to continue. I went and weighed on my Wii Fit on Tuesday and lost another pound. Not a huge amount, but it's a loss and I'll take it. I just wish I had started weighing myself before I started this lifestyle change.

The jeans by which I measure myself every week (on Monday), are almost wearable. I can get the buttonhole to the edge of the button and I could probably wear the pants, but I want to be able to button them up and wear them without feeling like I'm cutting myself in half. So, I'm curious to see what this Monday will bring.

Well, that's this weeks' update!

Things I learned This Weekend

2011-04-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

OK, so I learned some interesting things this weekend.

First off, I still crave sugar! Not nearly as bad as I did, but I'm kinda disappointed that I still have that craving.

Second, we went to Dion's for pizza on Friday night and we ordered a pizza and a pitcher of Dr. Pepper. We each got a small paper cup (12 oz?) and refilled as wanted. Well, I filled up my cup and I couldn't drink it! I was shocked at how sweet the soda was. I never remembered it being that sweet. I drank about 1/2 of the cup and threw the rest away. I was really pleased with myself that I didn't go hog wild over having some soda. I was also surprised that I didn't like the taste all that much anymore. I asked for a glass of water and drank that more than the soda.

Third, never buy donuts for church (especially krispy kreme). They just call out to you no matter what. I tried one of them also - way too sweet as well.

So, the lesson I'm learning this week is that yes, even tho I am craving sugar, the taste is nothing like I remember it. I'm pleased with my progress so far. I'm curious to see what this coming week will hold.

Hmmmmmm...........

2011-03-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been almost 3 weeks. I haven't weighed myself and don't plan on it. Been trying to figure out some way to check my weight loss (if any). My clothes don't feel as tight and I'm sticking to the "diet" fairly close. I'm not watching my carbs, but my sugars. I try and eat only a things that have 3-4 grams of sugar per serving (or less). I have learned doing this that I need to watch how many nuts I eat because even tho they have no sugars, they are extremely high in fat. Now, it's "good" fat, not "bad fat", but it's still fat and I don't want to add anymore of that to my body. I have had no bread in three weeks, no flour tortillas, only a few chips (I'm a sucker for chips and salsa), 2 pieces of chocolate cake (my daughter's birthday - but the 2 pieces were spread days apart). Anyway, when I do eat something with lots of sugars, I'm controlling how much I eat. This has changed a lot from what I used to do before. I am become more aware of what I put in my mouth. I use Splenda for my tea (which I drink almost all the time) and I've noticed I am using less of it. I am realizing that my "sweet tooth" is shrinking. I am not craving sugar or sweets like I used to.

I have found a couple of recipes that really appeal to me. Breakfast is a really hard thing for me. I've never been a breakfast eater, but in January, I started cooking breakfast for my daughter before school. I finally found an spinach omelette recipe that I liked. Lunch is much easier as is dinner. I made red chile meat this morning. It should be really good tomrrow for breakfast.

Lunch has been chicken salad (recipe on my blog), salads, hamburger patties and beans.

Dinner has consisted of broccoli, salmon, shrimp, anything that doesn't have any flour products or sugar.

It's been an interesting journey so far. I have come to realize that I am not as tired as I was. My body feels so much better. I feel like I have a lot more energy.

So, what am I going to use as a way to judge my progress. I'm thinking I'll use my wedding band to see if I can get it to fit my figure eventually.

March on.....

A New Journey - losing weight one Sugar gm at a time

2011-03-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

17 Years ago I gave birth to our daughter. Since that time, I have yet to get rid of the excess weight I gained. It's now time to try and get rid of it. My first concern is the possibility of having diabetes. No, I haven't been tested, but if you looked at my dad's side of the family, it's rampant. My Mom's side, none. I know that most things run from the Mom's side, but I just don't want to take that chance. So, I decided 2 weeks ago to try and lose some weight.

I think the biggest problem for me has been "hitting the wall". You (or at least I) have to finally reach a point where enough is enough. You are miserable in your clothes, refuse to buy a bigger size, don't want to look in the mirror and don't want anyone (especially your hubby) looking at you because you feel like you're bigger than your house. The last one I know is not true, but at a certain time of the month, it sure can feel that way :-)

I have tried diet centers, weight loss clubs, gyms, walking, the Wii, the treadmill, my exercise machine, all to no avail. I tried last October to lose weight. I actually did it. I tried eating 1500 calories a day. I counted EVERYTHING that went into my mouth. Do you know how tiring that is? How frustrating it is to keep it at 1500 and not go over? I hate living by my weight. I want to go out and buy a size 8 pair of pants again. I want to buy a Lg. shirt instead of an XL (which won't ever happen because I have really broad shoulders, but it's nice to dream). I want to be able to wear my wedding bad. I haven't worn it since I had my daughter all those years ago. It sits in my drawer, very sad.

In October I lost about 20 pounds, but then the holidays came and that counting calories went right out the window. I welcomed all those lovely carbs into my life with open arms and an open mouth.

Now, I'm not obsessed with food, but I do like it. I love to cook and bake and share my goodies with my friends and family. Thankfully, regretably, my husband only likes white cake with white icing, Snickers and peanut M&M's. Oh, and cinnamon rolls, but I don't make them too often - they're a lot of work. So, there normally isn't baked goods laying around my house. There are however, chips and salsa and candy, lots of candy.

I don't own a scale - I haven't in years. I threw the thing out because I went to a diet place that had you weigh in EVERY DAY!! Do you know how much your life ends up revovling around that darn thing? I decided enough was enough and tossed it. I now gauge by the size clothes I wear and in the scheme of things, I'm not doing bad. I still wear the same size and have for the past 17 years or so. The problem is, that is not where I want to be.

So, where to begin. Well, I have two dear friends who both have diabetes. One of them lost a lot of weight by watching her sugars (not sugar, sugars). She has been an encouragement to me and my other friend to finally jump in with both feet and get started to what I hope will be a successful endeavor. This is a record of my journey. It may be a short journey and total car wreck, but I'm going to give this my best shot and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Hold on, it'll probably get bumpy.

Shawl We Knit?

2011-03-18T22:19:00.000-07:00

I am a new knitter by most standards (going on 4 years) and I'm pretty much self taught. I took a few classes at our LYS until it went out of business, so I got most of my basics, but the rest comes from trial and error, YouTube, friends, websites and magazines. I recently learned that I am a "thrower" when it comes to knitting. I never knew how I knit has a name to it. What's really funny is I learned to crochet when I was very young. My Nona taught me "by copy". She had a 2nd grade education (via Italy) and couldn't read or write. So, when she taught me, she crocheted a block and then I would tear it apart and crochet it back. I still have my many samples to refer back to. But I digress. When I crochet, I hold my yarn in my left hand and the hook in my right (not correctly either. My mom used to say you hold it like a pencil. I hold mine with almost a death grip, but not nearly as tight). When I knit, I hold my yarn in my right hand and "throw" the yarn around the needle. When I decided to take up kntting (right after my mom passed), I decided to do it right and take classes, thus the few that I took at our local store. Since then, I've ventured out and tried socks (too big but I'm not giving up - they're on my "to do" list), hats and scarves (TONS of both), shrugs, dischlothes, and now..........shawls. I am fascinated by knitted shawls. And not just any knitted shawls, but lacy ones. I'm not up to the "super fancy" shawls, but lacy ones, nonetheless.

These past few months I have paired up with a friend of mine (Hi Rachael!) to knit a couple of shawls. We are quickly realizing that there are more shawls that we want to knit than time. I guess if I had to narrow what I like down about certain shawls, it would have to be easy to follow directions, stunning yet simple designs, the size of the needles and how quickly I can accomplish or finish them. That being said, here is a list of what I am working on, have worked on and what I want to work on. Maybe you might enjoy a few of them as well. I am constantly on the lookout for patterns and I'm sure my list will continue to grow, but at least I can keep my wish list all in one spot. Now, if I could only decide on the yarn to use for each one of them.....but that's a whole 'nother post.

http://knittingasfastasican.com/forest-canopy-shoulder-shawl/ (This was my very first one and I've made it at least 3 more times)

http://www.tuecherrausch.de/download/Die-WollLust-Wabenschal.pdf (Ok, this isn't officially a shawl, but it's still lacey and I loved making it - I've made it at least two times)

http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEss10/PATTannis.php (I just got done with this one and have yet to block it - I learned a lot with this pattern - especially how to CAST ON 363, YES, 363 stitches). I plan on doing it again very soon.
http://feministy.com/saroyan/ (Love this pattern so much I've made it 4 times)

My future plans:

http://stickfrossa.blogspot.com/2008/09/sjalmnster-annas-shawl.html

http://www.loopknitlounge.com/2010/05/loving-my-old-maiden-aunt/

http://www.zenyarngarden.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=938

http://stickchicky.blogspot.com/2008/06/waltz.html

http://www.missbabs.com/store-detail.php?cat=89&ID=8

There are more, but this is a start. Maybe you'll enjoy a few of the ones I listed. Now, any yarn suggestions?

2011-01-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

So, life has been crazy at our home lately. Can't believe Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year has passed us by. Tomorrow is my mom's birthday, so I think I"ll go and celebrate it in her memory. Miss you mom!

Lately, I've been surfing the web for cowls and infinity scarves to knit. I don't know what it is about them, but there is such an appeal to them. Then I started looking for "neckwarmers" and came across scarflettes. I like them, however many of them or most of them require buttons. My problem has always been buttons on anything I make. I don't like to add buttons. If I can find a way around them, I'll do it. So, that being said, I just finished off the "Autumn Leaves" Scarflette (http://florriemarie.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/autumn-leaves.pdf) and Candy Wrapper Scarflette. Both turned out beautiful, but I wanted that something "special" to finish them off so I thought "Why not vintage??" So, what do you think?

I decided to use vintage pins! That makes the scarflettes adjustable for me or anyone I give one to. So, if you hate to make buttonholes or don't know where to sew the buttons on, consider going vintage! Vintage pins, that is! Have a blessed day.

Balancing Golf Balls

2010-11-22T06:39:00.000-08:00

OK, so we had a Sunday School fellowship and some of our friends wanted to play minute to win it. ( I can honestly say I have no idea what this is). Anyway, they were playing on a folding table and couldn't get the golf balls to stack. So, my husband came home, rummaged thru the garage and found himself three golf balls. No, they are not glued together. He just sat at the counter and 30 seconds later.............

2010-11-22T06:26:00.000-08:00

Oh gosh! Has it been 2 months since I last posted??? Hard to believe. Time flies. I've been busy Christmas shopping the past few weeks and I think I can honestly say that I am pretty much done. I have my husband left. My niece and nephew on my side of the family has chosen to get either gift cards or money. What's the fun in that? I remember the "good old days" when we could hardly wait to open up packages to see what we were getting. It may not have always been to our liking, but it was fun ripping open the packages. What's the fun in opening up an envelope? Where's the joy for the giver? I love to take the time and pick out what I think is the "perfect gift" for someone. Oh well, what do I know???? So, they'll get money or gift cards. Personally, I think they would have gotten more bang for the buck if they had chosen to receive gifts. Just sayin.....

So, other than voicing opposition to how I give gifts for a special season, what else can I write about??? How about a few recipes?? Sounds good. So let's begin:

Grandma's Casserole

I grew up with my grandmother making this. I don't know how old it is, but I do like it. One of those "comfort foods"

Mix well: 2 pkgs. frozen, cooked broccoli
                  1 pkg. frozen, cooked cauliflower
                  1 can Cream of mushroom soup
                  1 can chopped green chile
                  2 c. grated cheddar
                  1 c. sour cream

Bake in 13x9x2 pan (greased) at 350 deg. for 25 minutes

Horehound Candy

I got this recipe from a lady when I was about 12 years old. Her name was Mrs. Howard. You can probably find the horehound at natural food markets. This was my grandpa's favorite candy and I hate to admit it, but I like it too!

Make a strong tea of 1/2 c. dried horehound steeped in 2 cups boiling water in a covered pan.   After 10 minutes strain into a 6 qt. saucepan. Add 3 cups sugar and 1/2 tsp. cream of tarter. Boil to hard crack stage or 300 degrees on a candy thermometer. Pour quickly into a buttered rectangular pan. Mark off in squares before the candy is entirely hard. Break into pieces as soon as it can be handled. Put about 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar in a paperbag and shake candy gently to coat. This helps prevent the pieces of candy from sticking together when stored.

Pesto Sauce

I've tried several different recipes and I like this one. I don't remember if I altered it or not, but I do like it.

1/4 c. pine nuts
3 cloves garlic
1 1/2 c. basil
1/2 c. olive oil (3/4 c. if recipe is doubled)
pinch of nutmeg
sald and pepper to taste

Mix and puree. IF, IF, you are planning on freezing this here's a trick. Leave out just a couple of tablespoons of the oil from the recipe. Pour the pesto into your container and then pour the oil on top. It will seal the top and prevent freezer burn. If you didn't save enough oil aside, go ahead and add a little bit more to cover the top. It won't hurt it. Enjoy!

A Lesson I Learned From My Daughter

2010-09-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

This past week has been such an eye opener for me. Not only a a mom, but as a Christian.

Conner and Tyler have been dating since May and sometime in late June, early July he and his band decided to move. Conner wasn't happy, but she kept on trucking along. Spending as much time with him as she could. Throughout their relationship they faced many obstacles, the least of which was people upset because they were dating (too old, too young, nothing in common, etc.). They fought for the chance to find out more about each other. What impressed me most was Tyler writing me asking to date my daughter. By agreeing, I lost a friend, but then again, maybe she wasn't a friend. She never took the time to find out what my rules were for dating. But that's ok, I survived.

This past weekend Conner and Tyler saw each other for the last time. I got a call late Sunday night to come pick up my very distraught daughter. I cried on the way. As a mom we never want to see our children hurt. But, as a mom we also know it's coming. How to prepare ourselves, how to find the right words, how to get them to see that their world and life is not over. It's sad and hard.

I asked for prayer for Conner. It's not easy being a teenager today and being a Christian one is even harder. So, I thought prayer was definitely in order.

Upon talking to Conner she told me that she has always encouraged Tyler to follow his dreams, even if it meant giving up her dreams.

Monday I went to knitting and was telling one of the ladies about what happened and how Tyler was leaving to start a new life, but that Conner was left behind.

Upon listening to me talk about Conner, Sharon (my knitting buddy), turned to me and said "She's the perfect example of Christian love"! I had to stop and think about that.

Upon reflection, I have to agree. It's amazing that my 16 year old can teach me such an important lesson and I can't recognize it for what it is. We have tried to instill strong Christian values in Conner, but as a parent, you never know if what you are trying to teach your kids will stick. Well, it does.

Conner has taught me that 1 Corinthians 13 is alive and well.

13:4 - 8a Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

How many of us can readily put someone else before ourselves? Encouranging them to follow their dream, even tho it is killing us inside. Honestly, how many of us?

How many of us would recognize such an unselfish act if we saw it or were recepient of it?

How many of us would praise the unselfish act for what it is? Putting into practice what Jesus taught us.

It doesn't mean that life doesn't hurt and that our hearts don't break, but it does show God and Jesus work thru us without us even knowing it.

So, thank you Conner. I know your hurting and your heart is broken, but I want to thank you for teaching your mom and for being the perfect example of Christian love.

Sausage Muffins - Mini or Regular

2010-08-05T14:04:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe, which is awesome, by the way, from my friend Cheri.

They are very addictive, so make enough :)

The picture to the left is of the miniature muffins. I prefer them because they are just a bite or two and they are easier to handle at potlucks or for Sunday School snacks, plus, just a few are really filling.

Recipe:

3 C Pioneer Biscuit Mix (Cheri recommended this brand over any of the others because she says it bakes up lighter and fluffier - I'll taker her word for it - she loves to cook as much as I do)

3/4 c. milk
1 can Cheddar Soup
1 pound bulk sausage (I prefer hot), cooked up and crumbled
12 oz. cheese (either cheddar, co-jack or pepper jack work really well)

Mix all together and spoon into a GREASED muffin tin. Bake 25-40 minutes (depending on size of muffins) till done. Watch for the tops to turn slightly brown. Remove from oven, cool and remove from tin. Regrease before using for the 2nd batch.

A single recipe will make about 50 mini muffins and they freeze really well. To reheat them, grab a few, put them on plate and "nuke 'em" for about 35-40 seconds.

Enjoy

Star or Openweave DishCloth Pattern

2010-07-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

Love this pattern - fast, easy for an advanced beginner and neat design!

Some people call this a star pattern and others call it an open weave pattern. Whichever it is, it's neat!

Materials:

Size 8 needles

Cotton Yarn (1 ball)

Tapestry needle

Pattern is a three stitch repeat

CO 36 stitches

For the border: knit 4 rows

For the body:

Row 1: K3, K2, *yo, K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two. Repeat from * to last 4 stitches, K4

Row 2 and Row 4: K3, P30, K3

Row 3: K3, K1, *K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two, yo, repeat from * to last 5 stitches, K5

If you don't want to add the border, then remove 3 stitches from each side and CO only 30 stitches.

Then your rows would read as follows:

Row 1: K2, *yo, K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two. Repeat from * to the last stitch, K1

Row 2 and Row 4: P30

Row 3: K1, *K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two, yo, repeat from * to the last 2 stitches, K2

Shut-In Project at my church - mission project

2010-06-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

Three years ago (almost 4) my mom died of multiple myeloma. It absolutely devastated me. I was very lost and looking for some way to help people. Well, I figured out what I could do, and then I went to my Pastor and told him my idea. He liked it and gave me the go ahead. So, after two years, I am hoping I have a better idea of what I'm doing. All I know is that the shut-ins love it and I feel like God is filling a big hole in my heart. So, without further ado....

One of the most forgotten group of people in the church are the home bound, or shut-ins. They dedicated their lives to their church. They used to attend regularly, be involved in everything and gave freely and lovingly. Now that they are not able to attend or be involved, people forget that they are still here, just not filling up pew space. Many of these people are either in a care facility or living alone with minimal contact with people. They struggle from day to day to make ends meet or just to do something that used to come easily. The biggest thing to remember in all of this is ---- one day it will be you!

My favorite time of year is Christmas, so what better way and time to remember our shut-ins than at Christmas??!!

This is not a quick project, but rather a long drawn out one. It takes almost a year to make items and to collect items or purchase them.

Step 1: Gather names - lots of names. Your church secretary will probably have a good starting list, but go even further. Talk to your senior pastor (not your head pastor, but the one who oversee the senior adults in your church). Ask him for the names of people who no longer are able to attend for whatever reasons: age, physicial disabilities, illness, etc. Then after you talk to him, talk to the seniors in the church. They have been there for a long time and they know who is no longer around. After you have gathered up all the names (and yes, you will miss a few), hit the newspapers and look up the obituaries. Some of those people on your list will have passed on. The church will not always be aware of this. OR, they have moved to another city. Many times, the church will not be aware of that either.

Step 2: Check and verify. Call the assisted living centers and the care units. Verify the person you are looking for is at that location, definitely. Get room numbers, mailing addresses and phone numbers. Verify, verify, verify.

Step 3: Make a list. (Actually, more than one). First list: Physical limitations, requirements. This may not seem important, but if you are collecting items or making items for someone, you need to know if they are wheelchair bound, or diabetic, or have some other physical disability.

Your first list should include: Name, address, phone number, b-day (this can be used for birthday cards later in the year), male or female, where they reside (home, assisted living) and any special needs. On our list we also have "bib". This is so that we know this person needs a special bib to eat. They have a physical disability that makes it difficult to eat and they spill food a lot while eating. These bibs are nothing special, other than they are adult size and long. But, they are only for certain individuals, so we added it to our list. Also on your list make a note if this is an individual or a couple. Many times both individuals are homebound for any number of reasons. Don't overlook the spouse or caregiver!

Step 4: Make your 2nd list: Your wish list.

The past 2 years I made a list up and gave it to my church. They then printed it up in their weekly and monthly bulletin. It tells people about our project and what we are aiming to provide. It also tells people how they can help in this mission project. We usually put a number needed (ie - 60 people, so we need 60 blankets), along with a contact number and where the items can be dropped off at.

Items: Small bottles of lotion (try and get unscented, if possible); non-skid slipper socks (make sure they have a lot of stretch in them to prevent swelling of their ankles); weekly pill organizers, wide tooth combs/brushes, work search books, sudoku books, crossword puzzles, 5x7 notepads with pens, decks of cards (new and unopened), chapstick (unflavored), coffee mugs, individual packts of cocoa or tea, blankets, bibs (these you either have to order or make on your own), nail files, fresh fruit, candy (make sure you get some sugar free for the diabetics in the group), knitted shawls for the women (I made a pattern we use that is quick and easy and only takes one skein - it's on this blog under "The Rainy Day Scarf". Perfect for the ladies and quick for you), packaged crackers, soap on a rope, washcloth to go with the soap, candy tins, homemade cookies, laundry baskets, jar lid grippers (perfect for them trying to open up difficult jars), stationary, stuffed animals (everyone loves these), Christmas cards, and money.

Step 5: The money does several things. It helps buy what was not fully donated by the church members and it purchases extras like ribbon (we weave it thru the baskets to make them cheery). The other thing we do is buy the shut-ins a gift card to Luby's or Furr's. Many of them cannot afford to go out and eat without relying on someone to take them. By providing them a gift card, they can buy a senior meal and buy a meal for the person who is taking them. This has been one of the most loved items. We also pick up anything else we might have missed that would go well in the baskets.

Step 6: Advertise in the church bulletins when you will be filling the baskets - get the youth involved! Get couples involved. Get everyone involved. Make sure you include a Christmas card (with the enclosed gift card) with an address on it. This helps your deliverer know where they are going and it is another bit of cheer for the shut-in.

Step 7: Set up the deliveries. Have one person contact everyone on your list that you will be delivering a basket to. Some shut-ins won't open their doors to just anyone. So, let them know who you are and that you are with your church and that "so and so" will be delivering a basket to them on "this date". Make sure someone will be there for delivery. This is a good project for the youth dept. I firmly believe our youth should be in contact and get invovled with our shut-ins. It's a win-win for both of them.

Step 8: Delivery. Make sure you have everyone lined up and place the baskets in your fellowship hall or somewhere that is easily accessible.

Step 9: Feedback. You'll get thank you cards, you'll get suggestions on how to improve it, you'll get lots of feedback. That's a good thing. You can always improve.

I hope this gives you a few ideas on how to help your church shut-ins. I really love this mission project. I hope you do as well.

Refrigerator Lemon Pie

2010-04-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

I grew up with my mom making the pie all the time. As I grew up, it became my absolute favorite dessert. Mom got in the habit of making this pie for me for my birthday and so it was. Today, I am making this pie for my daughter, who like me looks forward to it every time. It's a quick recipe, no baking, and ready by evening if you get it in the refrigerator in the morning. It doesn't have a strong lemon taste, but it's light and airy - very addicting. I don't know where the recipe came from, otherwise, I would give credit where credit is due. So, without further ado.....

THE PIE!

1 c. sugar

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 - 3 oz. pkg lemon jello

1 c. hot water

2 pkgs. Dream Whip (makes 4 cups)

1 c. ice cold milk - 2%

1 tsp. vanilla

2 graham cracker pie crusts

Beat together the sugar and cream cheese. Dissolve the jello in the hot water; add to the cheese mixture. Prepare the two packages of dream whip with the milk and vanilla. Add to the cheese mixture. Pour into graham cracker crust or layer in parfait glasses alternating with crumbs. Makes 2 yummy pies!

Madly Knitting

2010-03-31T14:36:00.000-07:00

I can't seem to stop - am I addicted????? Probably - here are a few things I'm working on. The bag has yet to be felted, so it looks pretty blah. I'm working on the strap right now - I have to knit it to 60" and then I'll felt them both and post the final pic when it is finished.

Next up is a bookmark I made for an internet buddy. I hope she likes it. I've never knitted something that small (well, do socks count???). It was fun and it blocked beautifully. I think I may make a few more.

Next up is a scarf I am working on. I absolutely love this pattern and have bought a lot more yarn to use just on this patttern. I think I am hooked on it. In case you want the name, it's called "Saroyan". I'm using Cascade 220 superwash and the yarn is a blue/green mix. I've gotten 2/3 of the scarf done.

So, that's what I've been up to. How about you??

Rantings from a stressed mom

2010-03-19T06:56:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here watching the news and realizing that my country is about to change, and not for the better. I wonder what our founding fathers would think right now. I wonder what all those veterans that are still alive are thinking right now - what did they fight for? I thought they had fought for our freedom, not for us to be enslaved by our own government! I'm wondering how I'll explain to my daughter that she already owes thousands of dollars to the govt. to help lower the debt that this President and his co-horts have borrowed to put us in chains. I'm wondering if we will wake up on Sunday and see that we are no longer the United States of America, but the united states of illusions. I don't care what you think the Constitution says - the govt. was not made to provide and rule over our lives. It was created to allow us to live in freedom. Now some people have very negative attitudes about the Constitution - they look at it as a living document. I think they are wrong. This country has stood and run well for the past 200 plus years and all of a sudden the document isn't worth the paper it's written on and that our founding fathers didn't know what they were talking about????? Freedom of speech, right to bear arms, freedom of religion (not from religion), and on and on and on. How did they get it wrong? They came from an overbearing government andf we are now going to be back in the same position they were. The only problem is - we don't have anywhere to go to build a new country! Congress won't listen to us - they think they know what is good for us. Obviously we don't know how to eat the right foods, we have to be instructed. We don't know how to take care of the poor and needy - we have to be told to do it. We don't know how to give money to charities - the government is going to do that for us because obviously we are as dumb as rocks. We don't know the best type of lightbulbs to use and if we use the wrong ones, we will be penalized. Women in their 40's are told not to get mammograms - they're not necessary. Really? Really?? Why don't you tell that to my 4 friends who are in their 40's or less, two of which died! I think we know our bodies better than you. Are you god? We soon won't be able to go fishing if the current president has his way - what is wrong with this picture? Can't drill for oil on our own coasts and land. Can't drill for natural gas - leases are being cancelled. So, we are beholden to govts. that don't like us. What is wrong with this picture. Thru the years the government has gotten bigger and bigger and dumber and dumber. We are tired people. We are tired of being told that we are not an exceptional country and that we are just like everyone else. Wrong. We are an exceptional country and we used to have be at the top for helping others and supporting our allies. Now we are a joke. Yes, our former president over spent. I freely acknowledge that. BUT, I also know that Congress was held by the democrats. They decided what was going to be spent and how. I don't think anyone had their hands tied behind their backs when voting on financing the wars in Iraq and Afghanastan. But tit-for-tat is pathetic. Rather than trying to cut our debt, we're increasing it because "Bush did it". Well, fine and dandy - what makes you think you're any better? In fact, you're thousands time worse. I would much rather send our troops, who VOLUNTEERED by the way, to fight a war on foreign soil, then fight a war over here. A few quotes come to mind and I'm sorry if I don't remember who wrote them, but: "Freedom isn't free" and "You can't borrow yourself rich". Duuuhhhh!

On that note, I think I'm going to go and call my representatives and congressmen, again. Not that it will help, they don't care about us - just themselves and the future of this presidency. God help us all.

Creamy Potato Soup

2010-02-20T13:44:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love potato soup. I used for a couple of years a recipe I had gotten from a cookbook, but felt that it was missing something. So, I have adapted the recipe to my liking. I'm sure that there is room for improvement - no one's perfect..... well, one man was. Anyway, I hope you like it and if you can think of something I can do to improve it, let me know.

Creamy Potato Soup ala LaDonna

1/4 c. butter
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/4 c. flour
30 oz. chicken broth
1 qt. cream
6-8 c. whole milk
8-10 medium/large potatoes
Salt and Pepper to taste

Melt the butter, add the onions and saute until clear. Add the flour and make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth, cream and milk. Let it cook for a while. While this is happening, microwave your potatoes untill cooked. Take two or three of the potatoes and cut them in half. (Here's a really neat technique I just figured out, so if you already know it, don't laugh that I'm a little late to the game.) Take the potato halves and lay them cut side up. Take your potato masher and mash the potatoes. Remove the skins and save for later. Dump the mashed potatoes into the soup mix. Now take the rest of the potatoes and cut them up to put in the soup. Cut up the left over skins as well. Simmer for an hour or 4 or 5 hours - being sure to keep it on low heat and stir, otherwise you will scorch the bottom of your pan.

You can add more potatoes if you want, I think it is a personal preference
That's it. This soup is better the next day.

Serve the soup with grated cheese on top. What a great meal to have on a cold and blustery day. Mangia! Mangia!

Same Blog, just a new name - wanted something more original than my name!

2010-02-15T17:30:00.001-08:00

Earwarmer Pattern

2010-02-15T16:25:00.000-08:00

OK, so I have been itching to try and come up with an easy and quick pattern for an ear warmer. I also wanted a little bit of a challenge, but not so much that a beginning knitter would be turned off. I think finally made up a pattern that covers all my requests. So, here it goes:

Materials:

16" - Size 10 circular needles or straight needles, your choice

1 large button

1 skein Jiffy Yarn - chunky

I didn't worry about gauge so much because it's not a full hat and it's a pretty forgiving item to wear.

Abbreviations:

k1fb - knit one in front and back of stitch

ssk - slip, slip, knit

CO - cast on

Directions:

CO 6

Row 1: Knit

Row 2 and ALL even rows - purl ** Except for Row 6

Row 3: k1fb, k4, k1fb (8 stitches total)

Row 5: k1fb, P2, bind off 2, P2, k1fb (8 stitches) - this is the buttonhole

Row 6: Purl 4, cast on 2, purl 4 (10 stitches)

Row 7: k1fb, P2, K4, P2 k1fb (12 stitches)

Row 9: k1fb, P2, K2, P2, K2, P2, l1fb (14 stitches)

Row 11: k1fb, P2, K3, P2, K3, P2, k1fb (16 stitches)

Row 13: k1fb, P2, K4, P2, K4, P2, k1fb (18 stitches)

Repeat Rows 15 - 20 (12 times), ending on the cabling row

Row 15: k2, p2, c4, p2, k2 (18 stitches)

Row 17: k2, p2, k4, p2, k4, p2, k2

Row 19: k2, p2, k4, p2, k4, p2, k2

Row 21: k2tog, p2, k4, p2, k4, p2, ssk

Row 23: k2tog, p2, k3, p2, k3, p2, ssk

Row 25: k2tog, p2, k2, p2, k2, p2, ssk

Row 27: k2tog, p2, k4, p2, ssk

Row 29: k2tog, p2, k2, p2, ssk

Row 31: k2 tog, k4, ssk

Row 32: Purl 6

Bind off

If you want to make this narrower, decrease your purls by one on each side and in the middle, so you'll have 15 stitches instead of 18.

If I made any mistakes, please let me know.

2010-02-09T20:57:00.000-08:00

If you have tried any of my recipes or my patterns, please leave me feedback. That helps me to improve an item and also gives me new ideas on things to cook or make. Thanks and God Bless!

2010-01-25T06:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

It's been 2 1/2 years since you went to Heaven and I miss you and think about you every day. You'd be so proud of your granddaughter. She is growing up to be a beautiful young lady. I love you Mom.

Big Comfy Hat

2010-01-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

I love to make hats, but the biggest problem I have had with each pattern I've tried is how short the hats are. I want a hat that will cover my ears. A hat that will stay over my ears and a hat that will cover the back of my head. I bought patterns after patterns after patterns and tried each of them - same problem. I finally decided to make up my own pattern. I hope you enjoy it. It's pretty basic, and pretty traditional, but it's pretty and warm!

This hat is an adult size hat. It's loose enough for a man to wear, but tight enough for a woman. Make sense?

Materials needed:

Size 10 circular needles (16 inch) and

Size 10 double pointed needles

1 stitch marker

Tapestry needle

2 skeins or 120 yds. Bulky (or #5) yarn - I made this hat with Deborah Norville Serentiy

Gauge: 4 stitches per inch

To begin:

CO 68 stitches onto your circ. needles

For the next 3 inches, K2 P2 for the ribbing.

After you have knit 3 inches, you are ready to begin the body of the hat. From this point on it will be all knit stitches, no purl stitches.

Cast on 4 additional stitches. I usually place my stitches at 3, 6, 9, and 12 (face of a clock). I do m1fb. The stitches blend better into the pattern. You should have 72 stitches on your needles.

From this point on, you will continue knitting until you have 5 inches from where you started knit only. So, you will have a total of 8 inches from the edge of the hat. Next, you will start your reduction in stitches.

When it gets too tight to use your circular needles, switch to your dpn's.

Decrease as follows:

Decr round 1: *k6, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 56 stitches.

Knit the next two rounds.

Decr round 2: *k5, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 48 stitches.

Knit the next two rounds

Decr round 3: *k4, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 40 stitches

Knit only round round

Decr round 4: *k3, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 32 stitches

Decr round 5: *k2, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 24 stitches

Decr round 6: *k2, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 16 stitches

Decr round 7: *k1, k2tog* for 8 times. You will end up with 16 stitches

Decr round 8: k2tog for 8 times. You will have 8 stitches

Cut your yarn end and with your tapestry needle run the end thru the last 8 stitches, one at a time. When you have gone thru all the stitches, pull your yarn snuggly, thread the yarn thru the top of your hat to bring it to the inside. Weave in your ends and if possible tie off and hide your ends. Snip ends, weave in all other ends. and you're finished!

Fingerless Gloves, Wristlets or gauntlets - Take Your Pick

2009-12-29T14:03:00.001-08:00

These are my latest knitting addiction. I can usually make a pair in about 3 hours - depending on what's on the tube. They are a lot of fun to make and just as much fun to wear. The three styles I have pictured I used a chunky weight yarn. I also like to make the thumb hole horizontal, not vertical - don't ask me why - I think it's just a personal prefernce thing. The one disadvantage to the thumb hole being horizontal is that you will have a slight gap next to the bound offf stitches - I still haven't figured out how to alleviate that, but from all the directions I've read, neither has anyone else. Below are my directions - as basic as they are. If you see a mistake, please let me know so I can change them as needed. Thanks and enjoy making these.

Basic Beginner Fingerless Gloves

Size 10.5 DPN's

1 skein Bulky (#5) yarn - I used Yarn Bee Mosiac twist in the first picture; Lion's Brand Wool-Ease Chunky in the 2nd picture and Deborah Norville Serenity Chunky in the last picture.

Tapestry needle to hide ends

On your needles cast on 25 stitches (8,8,9). Join the stitches being careful that you do not twist your yarn before the joining. The best method I've found for joining on is the cross over method. For directions how to do the cross over go here: http://www.tata-tatao.to/knit/closeup/e-twocircular.html

Knit in the round for 30 rows. On the next row, k1, bind off 5 stitches (you should have 3 stitches left on your needle). Continue knitting that row. *** (See errata below for additional directions) On the next row, k1, cast on 5 stitches, continue knitting that row. Knit 10 rows, bind off. If you have a hard time getting a flexible binding, try using the suspended cast/bind-off. It's pretty flexible.

These will fit a small to med. size hand - If you need to go bigger, try moving up 5 stitches at a time. Good luck and enjoy!

*** Errata - To alleviate the problem with the thumb hole knit as follows: After you have bound off your 5 stitches and finished that row, on the next row, k1, cast on 5 stitches, continue knitting until you get to the last stitch. Knit the last stitch of this row and the first stitch of the next, together (k2tog), finish the row. On the next row, at the last two stitches, the second to last stitch k1fb and then knit the last stitch. You should then have 8,8, and 9 stitches again on your needles.

2009-12-28T11:30:00.001-08:00

Yes, I know it's past Christmas and Thanksgiving and I know I'm late in posting this, but what else is new - bookmark my page for next year's celebrations.

This recipe came from a dear friend and everyone that tries it loves it and wants the recipe, so I'm sharing with you. Hope you like it. BTW, if you're counting your calories or carbs or fats, then don't bother making this recipe -it's not for the weight conscious.

Sweet Potato Casserole

6 c. cooked-mashed sweet potatoes
1 c. sugar
1/2 stick butter, melted
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. evaporated milk

Mix all ingredients well. Stir until creamy. Put into a buttered casserole dish. On top add:

3/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/4 c. flour
1/2 stick butter, melted
1 c. pecans, chopped

Mix all and spread or sprinkle over the top of the sweet potato mixture.

Bake at 350 deg. for 45 minutes.

You can also add little marshmallows after done baking and let melt before serving.

Enjoy!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-28T11:10:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe 2009 is almost over. Lots of changes happened this year - some good and some not so good. I pray for each of you that 2010 is a prosperous and happy year. I pray for your goodhealth as well.

I was late this year when it came to my Christmas cards - in fact, they may end up being New Year's cards. I can't remember the last time I was late in getting my cards out. I also ran out of time for baking - that's a first also. But, I was busy with other things and I know that life can get in the way - the most important thing to remember throughout the Christmas season is that we are celebrating Jesus' birthday - not a secular holiday.

One of the things I did this year was make Christmas trees for an annual event at our church. The trees are really neat as you can see and SUPER easy! As you can see from the picture, they are small enough to fit on a table and make a great decoration in your home. Can you tell what it's made of??? Let's get a closer look:

Did you figure it out yet? OK, I'll tell you what it's made out of - it's a tomato cage! The cage is inverted and covered with "fancy" garland.

So, if you want to make one of these, here is the "rough" directions. Tomato cages come in two sizes - the one shown is the larger cage. You will need one "package" of garland. I got mine at Hobby Lobby. The garland is kind of wavy and on one side it's green and the other side is red. I also used green organza ribbon (also bought at HL) and the red star also come from HL. Yes, I support them - a lot. Anyway, before you cut your garland, measure it around each "level" and then cut it with an extra couple of inches to be on the safe side. Now you have two options of attaching it. The picture shown has the garland attached by twist ties. It works just fine, and is quick, however, you need to tie every few inches. A better way is to use a low-temp glue gun. If that is your choice, start AT THE TOP LEVEL and glue the garland. Then work your way down to the bottom level. Next, measure the ribbon from the point (where the star will go) down along the edge wires to the bottom. Overlap the ribbon at the point by just an inch or so. Put glue on the point and fold the ribbon over. At the bottom, place some hotglue up agains the wire and "in" the garland. Press your ribbon down into the glue and hold. I used a cheap bamboo skewer to do this so I would avoid burning my fingers. When everything is cooled off, cut ribbon to whatever length you desire and tie on the edge wires, right above each level. Slide down and arrange. Then gather up your points and slide the star on top and your done! It's really beautiful. I also did one in red and gold and hung large candy canes from each level. Another idea, as a centerpiece, is to place matching ball ornaments on the table top (within the tree). I placed 5 and that works as well. I also did a candy dish in the middle at my door entrance. I hope you enjoy this and if you have any questions, feel free to contact me

Green Chile Stew

2009-10-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Cold weather makes me want to make warm stuff, so here is one of our favorites!

1.5 lbs. ground beef OR cubed beef
28 oz. can diced tomatoes (or 2 cans of Rotel)
1 large onion, chunked
6 green chile, chunked
5 buillion cubes
1 cup dry pinto beans
1/2 c. rice
4 med. to large potatoes, peeled and chunked
salt and pepper to taste (add this at the beginning)

In deep pot brown meat. Add next five ingredients. Add enough water to cover the ingredients with at least one inch above ingredients. Cook on low to medium for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Add rice and potatoes about 30 minutes before serving. Keep on eye on your water level. You may need to continue to add water throughout the cooking because it will evaporate and the beans and rice take up some of the water.

Serve with warmed tortillas.

Enjoy!

2009-10-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air (actually more like winter - I think we've kinda skipped fall after last night). When the weather gets cold one of the things I look forward to is making soups and other items in the oven. I try not to use my oven in the summer - it's just too hot. So, here is my recipe (with a picture - can you believe it?) for meatloaf. Ok, so you're not a meatloaf fan. I wasn't either. My moms meatloaf had a lot to be desired - it was VERY dry and lacked any flavor, but I really like this recipe. I got it from my friend Tiffany who laughed when I told her I couldn't cook a good meatloaf. Well, she gave me this recipe and it's good and fairly easy to make and it's one of those recipes that is not a "perfect" recipe. What I mean by that is this - you can add as little or as much as you want depending on taste. I'll give you my amounts, but you can play with it and see if you can make it better. Good luck and good eating!

MEATLOAF

The first picture is what it looks like before baking and the second is after baking. I know it looks dark, but that is the bacon and the bbq sauce. Don't panic!

3 lbs. ground beef (I use extra lean)
4 eggs
1 c. bread crumbs (I use plain)
1/2 c. bbq sauce or ketchup
1/3 c. A-1
minced onion to taste
garlic, salt and pepper to taste
6-8 Bacon slices
Carrots

Prepeat oven to 400 deg, Mix all ingredients well. If it is too dry you can add more bbq sauce. When well mixed, turn into a greased 9x13 pan. Shape into a loaf. Pour extra bbq sauce on top (again to taste). Layer bacon on the top. Here's a hint I learned - if you lay the bacon short ways (as shown), you can slice the meatloaf after each slice. Surround meat loaf with carrots - baby, sliced, or chunked - whatever your preference is. You can also put in potatoes, but because there isn't much liquid they will be slightly dry.

Cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you go over, even as much as 1/2 hour, you're still good. Enjoy!

Conservative vs. Liberal

2009-10-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

Someone in a group I'm in posted this and I couldn't agree more. I don't know who wrote it, otherwise I would give credit where credit is due.

Conservative vs Liberal

If a conservative doesn’t like guns, he doesn`t buy one.
If a liberal doesn't like guns, he feels that no one should have one.

If a conservative is a vegetarian, he doesn`t eat meat.
If a liberal is, he wants to ban all meat products for everyone.

If a conservative sees a foreign threat, he thinks about how to defeat his enemy.
A liberal wonders how to surrender gracefully and still look good.

If a conservative is homosexual, he quietly leads his life.
If a liberal is homosexual, he loudly demands legislated respect.

If a black man or Hispanic are conservative, they see themselves as independently successful.
Their liberal counterparts see themselves as victims in need of government protection.

If a conservative is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A liberal wonders who is going to take care of him.

If a conservative doesn’t like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Liberals demand that those they don’t like be shut down.

If a conservative is a non-believer, he doesn’t go to church.
A liberal non-believer wants any mention of God or religion silenced.

If a conservative decides he needs health care, he goes about shopping for it, or may choose a job that provides it.
A liberal demands that the rest of us pay for his.

Whelk Stitch Coffee Mug Coaster

2009-09-28T13:06:00.001-07:00

In addition to the coffee mug cozy, I decided to make a matching coaster.

Materials:
Size 6 needles (straight or circular)
Sportweight yarn (50 yds or less)
Directions:
CO 23 stitches (if you need to make it bigger, add stitches in multiples of 4)
Knit 5 rows
Row 1: (right side): K3, *sl1 purlwise, k3; repeat from * to end
Row 2: K3, *yf, sl1 purlwise, yb, k3; repeat from * to end
Row 3: K1, *sl1 purlwise, k3; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl1 purlwise, k1
Row 4: P1, sl1 purlwise, *p3, sl1 purlwise; repeat from * to last stitch, p1
Repeat until coaster is desired length (can be a square or rectangle – personal preference)
Knit 5 rows
Bind off

*Stitch pattern is from “The Harmony Guide to Knitting Stitches”

Coffee Mug Cozy Pattern

2009-09-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

I recently joined a swap for a coaster but we could also make a mug cozy if we wanted. Not knowing what I was doing, I searched the net like crazy trying to find one that I could do in a fairly short amount of time (I'm not the fastest knitter). I came across one I liked but I struggled with understanding the directions, soooooo, I decided to make up my own pattern. I like it and it's pretty easy and quick! I hope you enjoy it as well.

Materials:
Size 6 circular needles
Sportweight yarn (app. 70 yds)
Darning needle
2 buttons

Directions:

CO 11 stitches
Knit 3 rows
Row 4: K6, bind off 3, knit to end (this will make your buttonhole)
Row 5: P4, cast on 3, P4
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: Purl
Repeat rows 6 and 7 three more times

Begin Increases:
Row 1: K1, K1fb twice, k5, k1fb twice, k1
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: K1, K1fb twice, knit to last three stitches, K1fb twice, K1
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until you have 23 stitches on your needles
Purl one last row

Body of Cozy:

Row 1: (right side): K3, *sl1 purlwise, k3; repeat from * to end
Row 2: K3, *yf, sl1 purlwise, yb, k3; repeat from * to end
Row 3: K1, *sl1 purlwise, k3; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl1 purlwise, k1
Row 4: P1, sl1 purlwise, *p3, sl1 purlwise; repeat from * to last stitch, p1
Repeat rows 1-4 until you have 7 inches from the beginning of the decorative stitch. At this point, test it on your mug to make sure it will go around your mug, (but not overlap your buttonhole flap). You may have to adjust slightly for your mug, depending on the size.

Begin Decreases:

Row 1: (right side) : k1, ssk twice, knit to the last 5 stitches, k2tog twice, k1
Row 2: purl
Continue with this pattern until you have 11 stitches left.
Knit even in stockinette for 6 rows.
Knit 3 rows (garter stitch)
Bind off

Button Placement:

Wrap your cozy around your mug and see where you need to place your button. Mark area with a stitch marker if need be. Take your button and place it on top of the cozy and run your yarn thru to the backside. Take your yarn and thread your hidden button with it. Tie off the buttons well. Clip your threads and you’re done! (The button on the back helps keep your button on the front tight and helps keep your buttonhole from pulling on the outside button.

Summer Days

2009-07-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that summer is almost over. School starts for us on the 13th of August. I love summer because I get to have my daughter at home. It is such a pleasure to be able to just hang out together and talk. She complains when there are weeds to pull, but she's a trooper and she helps out. I know that there will come a day when she will graduate from high school and then off to college and then who knows what the world will hold for her. What ever it holds, she will excel in it.

I've been busy playing with yarn these past two weeks. I'm knitting a stole and I'm also knitting something called a reticule. I'll have to post the directions later, but it's a very interesting change purse.

My parents anniversary is coming up on the 4th, along with my brother's birthday. It's a hard day for many reasons. My mom will have been gone for two years on the 21st of August. I think I"ll go and celebrate her life on that day. Maybe go out and eat at one of her favorite restaurants. Order raspberry iced tea and toast her.

The garden has gone nuts on me. I'm actually keeping up on the weeds this year, but I have been picking about 100 lbs. of tomatoes each Friday and just as many pounds of cucumbers. I love summer. One of my favorite dishes to prepare is cucumber and tomato salad. It's so easy, but it is something we look forward to each year. I also have been playing around with cooking zucchini. We grow two different types - regular green and gold! The two together make such a pretty dish.

Finally got my daughter to try eating beets. At first she said they were gross but after she tried the dish I made, she decided it was pretty good stuff. Then she had the nerve (just kidding) to ask me if beets were good for you. Of course they are! So, she's eating more of them. Guess I better get geared up to make more beet and pineapple salad!

So, I guess maybe I should post the recipes. I'll have to find a picture of one of our cucumbers. You'll be amazed by the size of them. They are armenian cucs and they are delicious. Burpless, don't have to peel them and they don't get bitter. Just be prepared - they can get big!

CUCUMBER AND TOMATO SALAD

1-2 lbs of cucumbers (yes, pounds)

1 large tomato or 2-3 roma tomatoes

salt, pepper and vinegar to taste (I use wine vinegar)

3 T. Wine vinegar

1 T. olive oil

Toss, chill and serve. YUMMY!!!!

GOLD AND GREEN ZUCCHINI

6 c. gold and green zucchini, cut up in bit size pieces
1 large onion, chopped up in pieces
2 T. olive oil
1/2 tsp. savory
1/8 tsp. thyme
1/8 tsp. cumin
salt, pepper and garlic to taste

Toss zucchini and onions in olive oil. Sprinkle seasonings over mixture and toss again. Place in 9x13 pan. Cover with foil. Put in preheated 400 deg. oven. Cook for about 25 min. Stir every 7-10 minutes. Serve hot. Squash should not be mush. It should be firm almost crispy. You may have to add a little bit of salt to enhance the flavor. Test for flavor. Don't overdo it.

CANDIED BEETS

1/3 c. white vinegar
1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
2 T. flour
1 can pineapple tidbits (15 oz)
7-8 beets (tennis ball size)

To cook beets - cut off roots and cut of most of top. Wash, boil until tender. Drain. Slip off skins and cut into bite size pieces.

Boil pineapple juice, vinegar, brown sugar and flour until thick. Pour over diced beets and pineapple. Chill and serve. Soooo good the next day.

The Rainy Day Scarf

2009-07-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

This scarf is a combination of a scarf and a shoulder shawl. It has the shape of a triangle, but the ends are rectangular, perfect for tying. Because of the open weave and size of needles, this is a quick knit project. Perfect for a last minute gift! It uses only one skein of yarn, so you can dig through your stash and use what you have readily available. A worsted weight yarn will be a "laceier" scarf and the bulky will be thicker and the detail will not be as visible. It is strictly preference.

Materials

Needles: Size 13 – 24”-30” circular needles
Yarn: One Skein (250 yds.) worsted weight or bulky yarn
2 stitch markers
Knitter’s needle for finishing off the ends

Gauge: There is no gauge

Abbreviations:
CO- Cast on S1 – Slip one
K – Knit P1 – Purl 1
Kfb – Knit front and back YO – Yarn over
K2tog – Knit two together

NOTE: The numbers in () is basically a guide for you to know how many stitches you should have at the end of each row. I left them there as a helper, that is all.

Also, if you want to make the scarf bigger, just add another set of rows before starting the ties.

Set Up Rows:

Cast on 1
Row 1: kfb (2 stitches)
Row 2: kfb, kfb (4 stitches)
Row 3 and 4: kfb, knit to the end of the row (6 stitches)
Row 5: kfb, *[yo, k2tog], repeat * to the last stitch, yo, knit 1 (8 stitches)

Begin Stitch Pattern:

Rows 1-4: kfb, knit to end (12, 24, 36, 48, 60)
Row 5: kfb, *[yo, k2tog], repeat* to the last stitch, yo, knit 1 (14, 26, 38, 50, 62)
Row 6-9: kfb, knit to end (18, 30, 42, 54, 66)
Row 10: kfb, *[yo, k2tog], repeat* to the last stitch, yo, knit 1 (20, 32, 44, 56, 68)
Repeat rows 1-10 until you have 68 stitches on your needle.

Setting up Tie ends:

Row 1: Turn, kfb, knit to end (69 stitches), place marker, cast on 40 stitches
Row 2: Turn, knit across to end, place marker, cast on 41 stitches (150 total stitches)

Stitch Pattern:

Row 1: Sl1, knit across to end
Row 2: Sl1, knit across to end
Row 3: Sl1, *[yo, k2tog], repeat*to last stitch, K1
Row 4: Sl1, knit across to end
Row 5: Sl1, knit across to end
Repeat rows 1-5 until your tie ends measure 3”-4” wide. (Each set of 5 rows is approximately 1” wide).
Bind off loosely after Row 5

Musings From a Busy Mom

2009-07-09T11:16:00.000-07:00

I've been sitting here watching the "news" the past few days and came to a conclusion that I'm sure many of you have reached. Our country is nuts.

I have watched our so called "news stations and news updates and news reports" and all they want to talk about is Michael Jackson. What about the real news in this world, country, state, or town? What about the 13 soldiers that died in Afghanistan this past week? Where is the news on them? What about the respect they deserved for standing up for something they believed in - freedom????

Don't get me wrong. I grew up watching the Jackson 5 and later Michael Jackson, Jermaine Jackson and Janet Jackson, independently. I liked their music, but I never considered any of them a god. I grew up in the 70's and 80's. I remember when Thriller debuted and all my friends were so excited. I remember the white glove and the moon walk. None could do it better than Michael. But at some point, the Michael I liked and listened to changed. So, as I grew up I quit listening to most of his music, but every once in a while one of the "golden oldies" would play somewhere and I'd be bopping my head to the beat. It was fun music. So, when I heard that he had passed away, I knew that like Elvis, there was going to be a media circus. There was, to the detriment of our country.

During this past week, I've learned that Michael bleached his skin, had numerous nose jobs, didn't want to look like his dad, had needle marks all over his body, on and on and on.

What I didn't see was discussion of the 13 soldiers that died, the cap and trade bill, the health care bill, California's financial spiral, or any other actual issue concerning our country. The media sold out.

I got my news from the internet. Don't get me wrong, I get a lot of my news from the internet, but not everyone does. So, how can 6 plus hours of coverage be explained away by all the main stream media as news worthy? Why didn't they do a lottery to see which ONE station would carry the event of Michal's memorial?

I see teenagers who are devoting their life to Michael (including kids that I know). They think that he walked on water and that he changed the world for everyone. Well, he did in a way, but not always for the better. I don't think it's a wise choice to make any singer a role model. For that matter, no sports figure either. Find someone in your life to use as a role model. At the very least they will listen to you when you have concerns, issues or dreams for your future. My role model growing up was my Nona. I loved her dearly and she faced a lot of issues that none of us could even dream of, including immigrating to a foreign country and not speaking the language.

So, when will the media really start to cover what is going on in our country and world without commentary? When will they report the news without bias from either direction? I would like to wake up one morning and see that for once our country, even tho divided by party, has come together for the betterment of our country without worrying about who got the bigger or better piece of the pie.

I want a country that is run by a government that is for the people and by the people, not for themselves and by themselves.

So, my rambling is done........think I'll go knit something..........

Townhall Meeting with Harry Teague

2009-06-28T06:38:00.001-07:00

Friday night while driving home I heard Mark Levin say that Harry Teague was on the fence on voting for the cap and trade and asked his consituents to contact him. As soon as I got home, I tried. I tried the main switchboard, I tried his direct office line in Washington and I finally had to resort to e-mailing him my opposition to this terrible bill. Welllllllllllllll...............

We sat in front of our TV Friday and watched our representatives vote this country into poverty (more so than they already had). Seven Republicans - SEVEN! Shame on all of you and I will work diligently to help you find the door come 2010. I told my husband that I knew our Rep, Harry Teague voted yes on the bill. He asked me if I was sure. I got on line and found the roll call. Not only did he vote "yes" in the final bill, he voted "yes" in the test vote. The best part about the internet is that yes, you can find things pretty darn fast, much to the chagrin of our representatives in Washington, I'm sure.

It just so happened that Saturday morning we ran into someone who is actively involved in the tea parties and he informed us that Harry would be in town for a "townhall meeting" at 2 pm at a local restaurant. We decided to go to hear what he said and to see if we could voice our opposition to his vote.

So, we pulled into the parking lot and commented on all the pick-up trucks in the parking lot - the FULL parking log. I was very nervous about this. How do I confront a man about a vote and would I even be able to. I had been to John McCain's town hall meeting when he came to town and he stood in the middle of a room with all of us around him. He took questions from anyone who raised their hands. That is what we expected - boy were we wrong.

We walked in to a restaurant. Nothing was out of the ordinary. There were empty tables in places, but pretty much all tables had at least one person. So, we sat down with a friend and we decided that there was no way he would show his face, not that day. But about 15 minutes later, one of his staffers came in and told us that if we wanted to talk to Mr. Teague we would need to sign up. WHAT????? You heard me. He didn't want to talk to us as a group, he wanted to talk to us individually. He didn't want to let others hear what he was saying. He didn't want to be held accountable to the whole group. He showed up shortly beaming from ear to ear, eager to meet his happy constituents. Boy was he wrong. I would say there was approximately 60 people in that restaurant - maybe 6 were there to pat him on the back. The restaurant quickly filled up, with lots of people standing up because there were no more seats. The staffer called people up by name and put them all in a row. My husband got called so he stood up and got in line. Two other people at our table got called up. While they were standing in line, someone who had run in our local elections walked in holding a sign that said "Cap and Trade = Big taxes". The crowd started cheering and yelling. Teague totally ignored the man.

My friend from the tea party then stood up right in front of Teague and asked him in a loud voice to account for his vote. She requested he stand up and give us all an answer, not hide behind a quiet little one on one meeting. We were all there for the same thing. WHY???? This was his response. He told us that he was an oil man, would always be an oil man and that he had put an amendment in the bill to protect the people of NM by exempting the small refineries from the cap and trade tax. He said it would save everyone who drove a vehicle in NM app. 20-45 cents a gallon on taxes. When he was questioned on the actual cost to individuals or house holds he said it would be the cost of a postage stamp. We all know how well the government runs the post office - it's in the red constantly, but that's a whole 'nother ball of wax.

He voted yes because he was protecting his oil buddies in the eastern part of the state, plain and simple.

He voted ye because they were going to pass the bill anyway, so what did it matter if he voted yes? (Yes, that was one of his responses) and finally.........

Did he read the darn bill? The answer Yes...................well, sort of but not really. See, he has staffers that read the ENTIRE bill for him and then gave him a synopsis. He told the crowd that yes, he had read the bill, but he told my husband that no he had not. His. staffers. did.

What's wrong with this picture??

There were many angry people there. There were people telling us to get out because the townhall wasn't for us, but for them, his supporters. REALLY?? REALLY???? I may not have voted for the man, but I did vote. Therefore, I have the RIGHT to be at the meeting and hold my representative or representatives in Washington accountable for their actions, especially when it affects me. It doesn't just affect his happy followers, it affects all of us. We were told that the few that supported him wanted us out because we didn't vote for him. Now, if I hadn't voted, I might be able to see their point, but when you vote, regardless of who you vote for, it is up to you to make sure that your voice is heard.

I learned that it really doesn't matter what we want. That the parties have already decided for us what is best for us. I have learned that our voices are lost. The people we put in office don't represent us - they represent themselves and their own best interests.

I have learned that I need to become more active in politics - I may not be able to run, but I can support those whose beliefs I agree with. I learned that Washington changes people and not for the better, unfortunately.

I learned that our freedom is precious and we better stand up and speak up, or we will lose what little freedome we have left.

Are you listening Mr. Teague???

Salsa - a couple of different ones

2009-05-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Living in the southwest, this is a staple in pretty much every meal. There are tons of recipes out there to choose from. These are just two that I like and that I use the most. They are very different in flavor, but both are equally good.

Tomatillo Salsa

20-25 jalapenos
4-5 Roma tomatoes
4-5 tomatillos
garlic to taste
salt to taste

1) Wash all produce. Remove the husk from the tomatillos. Wash the tomatillos well and wash the husk.
2) Boil the jalapenos, tomatoes, tomatillos and husks. After the water has boiled for a few minutes, remove the leaves and drain the water.
3) Blend the jalapenos, tomatoes and tomatillo in a blender. Add garlic and salt. Chill before serving.

Optional: For some reason, lime tastes really good in this recipe, but add it after the salsa has cooled.

Jalapeno Tomato Salsa

3 jalapenos
1 large can of diced tomatoes (or you can use 2 to 3 fresh tomatoes, diced)
several sprigs of cilantro (I like fresh, but dried will work - 1 tsp.)
1/2 onion, chopped
garlic powder to taste
salt to taste

Blend all in a blender to the consistency you like - I don't like chunks, so I really blend mine. Serve cold with tortilla chips.

Buttermilk Pie

2009-05-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

Recipe via Serena Holder - another old family friend

1 unbaked pie shell (see my mom's pie crust recipe for this)
scant 2 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter
1 c. buttermilk
1/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
3 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Combine dry ingredients. Melt butter and add to slightly beaten eggs. Add buttermilk. Blend dry ingredients. Add vanilla. Bake at 425 for 10 minutes, then 350 deg. for about 45 minutes, or until knife inserted in middle comes out clean.

Tortillas ala Mom and Nettie Dodson

2009-05-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

This recipe comes from my mom and her dear friend Nettie. I can remember as a child sitting at Nettie's home watching her and my mom make these tortillas. She used to cook on an old wood stove and she would roll out her tortillas and toss them onto a cast iron stove lid to cook. My mom also had a stove lid specifically for making tortillas and when I got married - guess what I got as a wedding gift! Yep, a stove lid. Sounds crazy, but they make great tortilla "cookers". If you don't have a cast iron stove lid, then a flat skillet or large skillet will work just as well. Just make sure it's good and hot!

Here we go:

4 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt.
1 1/2 c. water
About 2 T. lard (or shortening)

Mix the dry ingredients together, blend with the lard and then add the water. Mix well and break up into golf ball size pieces of dough. Roll out thin and in a circle (yeah, good luck on that one - I still can't do it - mine are more.........oblong!). Anyway, throw one on the lid or skillet and brown on one side, then flip over and do the other side. The cooking is the best part because the tortilla will get all sorts of bubbles on it. As a child, that's the best part.

This recipe says it makes 24, but those are very small tortillas, so you might want to double this recipe. Or, you don't need to double it, but make fewer and bigger tortillas.

Enjoy!

Just Another Day

2009-04-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Monday and like most Mondays, I get up and get ready for the day. I usually start by reading the news on the internet. I don't really watch news on TV anymore. It seems to be more half-truths than not.

Being a Christian and a Conservative are both bad today. I read where the Miss USA participant didn't get the crown and they think it's because of her answer to a question. She answered the question, just not the way they wanted it. To her I say "I salute you!". I'm proud to see a young person stand up for their beliefs, even at the cost of your own goal. I pray that my daughter will one day grow up to be unashamed about her beliefs as you are.

Trying to keep away from soft drinks today. Love the stuff tho. But I live mostly on iced tea anyway, but sometimes don't you just crave a good soft drink? Just like a good chocolate chip cookie? Or a good bowl of posole?

So, tried to figure out what to write today and the only things I could come up with was random stuff.

I used to belong to Ravelry, a knitting website. I joined not too longer after my mom died. I took a couple of classes and decided to knit hats for chemo patients. So, I heard about this wonderful site and signed up for an invitation. True, it does have a wealth of information, but....I woke up a few weeks ago and found out I had been banned, along with about 160 others (We all belonged to a group called "the bunker"). Don't really know why. I, and the others from "the bunker" like the young lady who lost the crown, stood our ground for our beliefs. Were some controversial? yes. Were some anti-"whatever", yep. That's ok. I wrote the owner back (and I wasn't exactly sweet, but I wasn't nasty either) and told him that I was fine with it and I could do just as well without him. I honestly don't miss the trolls that came into the conservative groups I belonged to (and I belonged to a lot of them) and cause trouble. The bad thing was, it was the conservatives that got railroaded, not the trolls. Oh, well, life goes on. I hear they are happier without the voices of reason. That's fine, I think most of us are happier without them, too. I think this just makes me realize that this country is turning a different direction. I would never have thought to spew filth at someone for voicing their opinions in like-minded groups. I would never have thought to post disgusting responses to people who ask honest questions or who are seeking advise. Oh well, life is too short for places like that. Actually, I've been doing more knitting than when I was on Ravelry, so that's a good thing.

I see spring is in the air - or in our case - summer. I really hate the heat. With the heat comes weeds. Did I tell you I hate the heat? But, I love having fresh produce! I can hardly wait for homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers. They make such a great salad.

Well, that's about it. Guess I'll post a few pics for you.

This is the sunset as seen from my front porch. Isn't it beautiful. God truly creates wonderful things. This was taken on a trip to the Grand Canyon a few years ago.

Did anyone see Marley and Me?? Well, I've got one very similiar. She's a total goof.

This is a picture of a flower from a plant that was given to me after my mom died. Love the flowers and it usually has 2 blossoms at the same time. I'm surprised I've kept it alive this long.

Local Tea Party

2009-04-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Says it all, doesn't it.

Everyone was gathering in the park after walking to the park from another location.

Well, April 15 has come and gone and what a day it was. I never thought I would get out and walk in a rally against big government and rising taxes. I also never thought that my child would participate in such an event. It is truly amazing when you realize that your freedoms, that most all of us take for granted, are being threatened. There are so many issues that the government is working on that is not being talked about in the mainstream media. Yesterday made me realize that I needed to get more involved in politics and start raising awareness of what our children will be facing if something isn't done.

The tea party, I would say was a smashing success! The flags, the Pledge of Allegience, the friendliness of the participants. Everyone was happy to be able to speak. Many thanks to the people who showed their support by honking their horns, waving, giving us thumbs up. Isn't it great to be an American? Below are some more pictures of the rally.

Now onto another concern of mine. There are two bills currently in Congress that will greatly affect anyone who grows their own garden or has their own livestock. The two bills are HR875 and SB425. They are bills that are intended to protect us from food borne illnesses (food safety bills). The bills are too broad and as an individual, if these bills pass, I will not be able to grown my own produce or have my own livestock! What is wrong with this picture? HR875 has 40 sponsors! It is backed by four large food producers that I will not name. So, please people, if you care about what you eat or don't eat, please call your Congress men and women and Senators and voice your opposition to these bills.

Accomplishment!

2009-04-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I've basically been teaching myself how to knit and I really enjoy it. One of the things that I have been scared to death to try is lace knitting. So, anywho, some very nice people suggested I try knitting the Forest Canopy Shoulder Shawl by Susan Pierce Lawrence. I went down and bought my yarn (Merino 5 Superwashed wool by Crystal Palace) and got to work. Well, it took me right at a week, knitting at night only and voila! it is done!

I can't wait to make this again.

Is it just me??

2009-03-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

I didn't grow up in an angry household. I didn't grow up in a place where people treated each other poorly. However, I look at my country today and I see so many things that I never saw before.

First off, I am a Christian, before anything else in my life, Jesus comes first. Granted, I am not perfect and there are days that I put myself first, but I always try to put Him first. I am also a Conservative. I don't believe in abortion, I don't believe in gay marriage, I don't believe in women in the clergy, I don't believe in entitlement programs. That being said, I have just gained a lot more "enemies" than friends. I live in a country where freedom is no longer a right, but a luxury. I live in a country that is traveling down a path that I fear we will not be able to change. We're coming to a fork in the road and I'm not sure there will be any turning back.

Since the election, I have become more aware of the people around me. I am a happy person, or try to be most of the time. I volunteer to help when I can. I give food to people just because I worry about them. I donate clothing to people. I help in any way I can and my husband and I try and instill this value in our daughter. But in this country today I see many people that are not asking for help, they are DEMANDING it. They are demanding I pay for their mortgage, they are demanding I pay for their health insurance, they are demanding I pay for their life style, whether I agree or not (think Prop. 8 in California and the stem-cell research issue). I didn't grow up demanding anything from my parents - they instilled in us the knowledge that we had to WORK for what we wanted. As an example, as a teenager, my parents bought their first home (we had always lived in govt. housing due to my dad's job). The house was on 1/2 an acre. My dad decided we needed a fence around the property. We did not have a lot of money, but there were two teens that needed to earn some money, so the deal was done. All summer long by brother and I dug post holes in rock hard ground. There were days we could only dig half an inch and we'd then put water on the hole to soften it up for the next day. Well, we finally got the holes dug with much fighting amongst ourselves (hey, we're were teens!). My parents took us to the bank and gave us the money we had worked so hard for. Twenty five dollars. We each got $25 for all those post holes. Price per hole? .25 each. Slave labor???? Maybe, but we earned every dime and we were excited to get that money. By today's standards, that's not much. But by today's standards, you don't see kids digging post holes for money either. We have become a society of entitlement. It's been caused and encouraged by many parents and our government. No one thinks they need to work for anything anymore. What ever happened to being proud of what you've accomplished? Can you honestly say that you can go to your friends and say you are proud that the government is taking care of your every want? Not needs, but wants?

I also see a country that is full of angry people. I don't think they just showed up, I think they just came out of hiding. I think this President has made many realize that it's ok to demand things from their neighbors, even if they don't deserve it. I see people demanding many things, but at the same time, they have things I don't have (think 60 inch plasma tv, multiple cell phones, new vehicle, etc.). They made the choice for those items. I didn't. I work hard for what I have. I don't live on credit, I may not have a big savings account, but I do have some. I have always tried to live "right". Why am I being punished for other people's poor choices? Now, I understand that things happen and sometimes people do need help because they lost their job or they got behind on their mortage payment because of the lost job, but that is different than someone who decided to roll the dice and play to see how long they can get by on what they don't make.

I see people who want to take away my rights because it makes them uncomfortable. Do I really care? Not really. I know where my home will be at some point and it's not here. But, I also know that I have to live with my neighbors. Just because I don't like your lifestyle or choices, doesn't mean I will treat you poorly because of it. That being said, why do you treat me poorly?

We are no longer governed according to the Constitution, but rather by emotions and desires. What happens when our voices are taken away? Our rights to protect ourselves? Our rights to grow our own food? Think it won't happen? It's happening now. Do you really want your children to live in a country where they are not free? Do you really want to live in a country that has no moral compass? That makes it ok to kill someone because of their belief system? That makes it ok to silence them because of their belief system?

I pray that our country wakes up and take the "right" fork in the road and not the other. I have faith in people and I pray their eyes will be opened to what is happening and take a stand against the anger and intimidation and not be fearful for being Christian, or Conservatives.

That being said, I also see angry people who don't like what is going on in their country and for the first time in their lives they are realizing what they could lose if they don't stand up and fight for it. These people are the silent majority. They don't normally voice their concerns because they figure that as conservatives, we are supposed to sit on our hands and play nice, but I think the days of playing nice are over and we are going to have to stand up for our country and the future of our children and grand children. Also, we as parents and grandparents need to make sure that the values our children have and are being taught are the types of values that make this country great. Hard work, honestly, truth, love, life isn't always fair - deal with it.

I don't envy the people that make 5 million a year. I don't envy anyone what they earned. They earned it. Would it be nice to have that kind of money? Sure, but I DIDN'T EARN IT. I'm ok with that. I pray that there are others like me that feel the same way.

Again life isn't fair, but deal, people.

Mom's Pie Crust

2009-03-29T14:23:00.001-07:00

Everyone has special memories of their mom. One of mine is her pies. She made the most beautiful pie crusts. They were truly amazing. Unfortunately, she did not pass that skill onto her daughter, but I do try. That being said, here's my Mom's recipe.

2 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
3/4 c. shortening
6 Tblsp. water

In bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening with pastry cutter (or do like me and use a fork). Sprinkle water a little at a time and mix with a fork. Gather dough into a ball and divide in half and roll each into a circle about 1.5" larger than pie plate. Lay into plate and flute edges.

Makes 2 crusts.

Green Chile Quiche

2009-03-29T14:19:00.001-07:00

Another favorite quiche recipe of mine, and living in the chile capitol of the world, I have a lot of chile floating around.

Preheat oven to 300 deg.

3 eggs, beaten
1/4 c. mayo
1/3 c. green chile
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 c. onions, sauteed
1/2 c. swiss cheese (can add more if you want)

Mix all and dump into a prepared crust. Bake at 300 deg. for 30 minutes. If you use a deep dish pie crust (double the recipe), cook for 50-60 minutes at 350 deg.

LaDonna's Favorite Quiche Recipe

2009-03-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

Throughout the past couple of years, I have become a lover of quiche. I didn't grow up eating it, it is something I developed a taste for. I like this recipe because it is pretty adaptable to what I have in my freezer or my garden at any given time. I hope you enjoy it.

Preheat oven to 350 Deg.

1/2 c. mayonnaise
2 Tblsp. flour
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. milk
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 c. ground sausage, browned
1/2 c. green chile
1 c +/- broccoli (steamed)
sauteed onion, to taste
8 oz. grated swiss cheese

Mix altogether and pour into a pre-made pie crust or make your own crust (I will post my mom's recipe that I use, next).

Variations: I have used the following in lieu of broccoli: 1 c. drained, steamed spinach or you can mix it up by dividing the 1 c. measurement with various other veggies. I like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, swiss chard, yellow squash, to name a few. You can also substitute bacon for the sausage. If you don't like meat, just replace it with more veggies.

This makes a deep-dish quiche.

Enjoy

Bake for 1 hour

Navajo Tacos or Indian Fry Bread w/toppings

2009-01-02T08:42:00.000-08:00

Isn't it funny how you forget about recipes and when you rediscover them it's like finding an old friend. Such is the case with this recipe. It's actually a mixture of two different recipes and they come together in a pleasing local flavor.

Fry bread recipe:

4 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
4 tsp. baking powder
2 T. lard (or Crisco shortening)
1 1/2 c. water

Sift dry ingredients. Cut in shortening/lard. Add enough water to make a soft dough, but not sticky. Knead well. Let stand at least 30 minutes. Roll a piece of dough out into a circle (slightly smaller than the plate each person will be using). Roll to 1/8 inch thickness. Fry in hot oil. Turn and fry other side. Place on papertowel to drain some oil off. Top with meat/bean mixture, lettuce, tomato, cheese and sour cream (if desired) or guacamole (if desired).

Meat/Bean topping:

This recipe is for a small crockpot. Double if you're using a larger crockpot:

2 c. beans, uncooked and cleaned
1 chopped onion
pepper, salt, garlic and cilantro - to taste
1 lb. ground beef
1 small can tomato sauce
1 15 oz. can Rotel Tomatoes and Chile
1 large container of frozen red chile (mild or hot)

Dump cleaned beans into the crockpot. Add water to about 1 inch above the beans. Fry up your ground beef. Drain. Add to the beans. All all other ingredients to crockpot and cover. Let it cook all day. Stir occasionally.

That's it and so very good it is!

Maggie's Notebook: Boehner Promises to Stand Strong on These Issues

2008-11-08T17:28:00.000-08:00

Maggie's Notebook: Boehner Promises to Stand Strong on These Issues

Sugar Cookies

2008-11-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

Sugar Cookies

These are very good cookies. The best part is, unlike regular sugar cookies, these do NOT lose their shape when they cook. They are great for detail work if you like to do icing.

1 c. sugar
3 1/2 c. flour
2 sticks REAL butter, softened
1 tsp. vanilla
2 large eggs
2 T. Karo syrup

Cream sugar and butter. Add eggs, Karo and vanilla, then add sugar. Mix well. Place into a tight container and chill for 2-3 hours. When you are ready to use, on a floured surface, roll out to the desired thickness. Cut and place on ungreased cookie sheets. Cook for 18 inutes at 350 degrees.

Pumpkin Bread

2008-11-04T11:56:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Thanksgiving. This will make three full size loaves. It is probably the best recipe I have ever tried for pumpkin bread. It is also a good recipe for zucchini - just replace the pumpkin for zucchini - same amout - 6 cups.

Preheat oven to 350 deg.

6 c. pumpkin OR shredded zucchini
3 1/3 c. sugar
1 1/3 c. vegetable oil (I use canola)
4 tsp. vanilla
8 eggs
6. c. flour
4 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. baking powder
1 c. pecans
1 c. raisins (boiled to plump, then drained)

Mix all dry ingredients and all wet ingredients. Blend well. Add nuts and raisins last. Spray 3 bread pans w/PAM. Pour into pans. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes if your pans are 9" and 1 hour if your pans are 8".

Can also make mini loaves - will make 16 mini loaves - bake for 45 minutes.

Zucchini and Chocolate Chip Cake

2008-07-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe from someone at our local farmer's market. He gave me a piece of this cake and it was wonderful - that was when he told me it had zucchini in it. I told him I HAD to have the recipe because we sold produce at the market and I could use that recipe for my customers. Everyone who has tried it has loved it. Just a word of advise - if you use frozen zucchini, make sure that you use whatever liquid is in the bag with the zucchini - the cake definitely needs that moisture and if you do not use it, the cake is very dry and crumbly. Been there, done that.

1/4 c. butter AND 1/4 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. oil
1 egg
1/2 c. sour milk
1/4 c. cocoa
2 c. shredded zucchini
12 oz. chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 325 deg.

Cream together butter, shortening, oil and sugar with an electric mixer. Add vanilla, egg and sour milk (sour milk: 1/2 c. milk less 1 T. of milk. Replace that one T. milk with 1 T. white vinegar). Mix well. Add all dry ingredients and mix well again. Add all but about 1/2 a cup of the chocolate chips. Add the zucchini last. Stir until all is well mixed. Pour into greased 9x13 pan. The batter will be very thick, so you will need to spread it out with a spoon. Bake at 325 for 45 - 50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Icing ideas: Dark chocolate or peanut butter icing. Personally, tho, I like Cool Whip.

Zucchini Lasagna

2008-07-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

I came up with this recipe on my own. I can't say it's perfect and I am constantly working on making it better, but I really do like it and so does my family. Just a word of advise - it's so much better the day after. I guess letting all the flavors blend together is why. I hope you like it and please be forgiving if it isn't perfect. It's kind of like me - God's not finished with me, yet and I'm not quite finished with my lasagna - we're both a "work in progress".

1/2 c. chopped onions
1 large can tomato sauce
1 c. frozen broccoli, cut up
2 cans sliced mushrooms, drained, or 1 lb. fresh mushrooms washed and sliced
1 small can tomato paste
3/4 c. TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)
1 c. frozen, chopped spinach
2 c. shredded zucchini
1 c. water
1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
2 T. olive oil
1/2 c. red wine
salt, pepper and garlic to taste
1 pkg. no boil lasagna noodles
grated mozarella, to taste

Preheat oven to 375 deg

Saute onions in olive oil until clear. Add tomato sauce, seasonings, wine, water and tomato paste. Stir well. Cook until heated well. Add all vegetables and the TVP. Cook until the sauce is thickened - approximately 30 minutes. If it gets too thick, add more water.

Spray a 9x13 pan with PAM. Layer the sauce, noodles and cheese in the pan until you run out of the sauce. Cover and cook for 30 minutes. Remove foil and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is browned and the lasagna is bubbly.

My Mom, my life and my God.

2008-07-20T17:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have posted on my blog - not that I haven't wanted to, but rather, I just didn't know what to write and when I thought of something, I didn't know how to put it into words.

In case you can't tell by my page, I am a Christian. I became a Christian in 1990, but never knew what it really meant. Yes, I realized that Christ died for my sins and I knew that I had turned my life over to him and that I accepted Him into my life, but I never really knew the extent of what that meant. That is, until last year when my mom passed away. I have always felt that God has been in my life, but that I just kind of kept Him on the sidelines, calling on Him only when I needed Him. Not anymore.

I spent a lot of hours by my mom's bedside the week she died. I read my bible out loud to her, not knowing if she heard me or not, but I felt that I was supposed to do that. The day before my mom died, I was sitting in her room alone with her. She hadn't been awake for well over 12 hours and we had asked the staff to give her morphine for the pain she was in. I was sitting there holding her hand and she started talking about Jesus and the lights. I started shaking. My mom never opened her eyes and nothing moved, except for her lips. I was scared and excited at the same time. I called my Pastor to come down right away and talk to my mom, but after he got there she never said another word. After he left, I told her I loved her and I was shocked when she opened her eyes and told me that she loved me too. I asked her then if she loved Jesus and the answer I got floored me - she responded in a language I did not understand. I tried again. I told her I loved her and I had a very important question for her. She opened up her eyes and told me she loved me very much and said ok when I told her about needing to ask her a question. So, I asked her if she loved Jesus, again. Again, I got the same response - a language I didn't understand. I was shaking. I talked to my husband and a Christian friend and they both said the same thing - my mom wasn't talking to me, but rather to God.

Up until that point I was very worried about my mom and where she would be after she died. I am still worried, but not like I was. I believe that my mom is with God. Being human, however, I struggle with the worry that maybe God didn't want her, but I can't, in my heart, believe that.

When my mom passed away, it was the worst experience in my life. It's one of those times that you wish someone would have sat you down and told you what to expect. Now, whenever I hear someone has cancer, I think of how my mom died.

Throughout this experience, the one thing that kept me going was my Bible and my faith in God. I know He was with me during that time. He had to be because I couldn't have done everything during that time without knowing He was there to carry me thru the pain and struggles of losing my mom.

One of the things that got me thru was a song by the Christian group Selah. The song is "You Lift Me Up". I listened to that song throughout the night during that week to get myself to sleep and keep me asleep. It was my life line. I wrote in a journal everything I could think of about my mom and what she taught me and what people didn't know about her. She was a wonderful lady.

Since my mom's passing, I have gotten more involved in reading my bible, getting involved in a ladies bible study and helping some of the seniors in our church with things they need. I feel that God is leading me towards this ministry and I absolutely love doing it. Do I wish my mom was back with me? All the time. She has been gone almost a year and I miss her so much = more on some days than others, but I think about her constantly. On the other hand, I'm so grateful to God for allowing her to be with us as long was she was. My daughter got to know her Nana and has wonderful memories of her and for that I thank God every day.

Mom's anniversary is coming up and I am already stressing about it and I really don't know why. I realize, finally, that something a dear friend told me is very true. This is not the anniversary of my mom's death, but the anniversary of celebrating that fact that she is in heaven with God and happy. Nothing could possibly make that day seem special, except for that. So, thank you Leslie for that thought to hold on to. You are a special lady and I know that God put you in my life just when I needed you.

I love you mom and I can't wait for the day I get to see you.

I love you,

LaDonna

Uncle Johnny's Vegetables

2008-05-31T19:39:00.000-07:00

This recipe is more of a "to your taste" recipe. Below are the ingredients and quantity I use, but you can vary the quantity and add or take away something you like or dislike. It is really great cooked out on the grill in an aluminum pan (covered w/foil) or you can cook it in the oven at 350 deg. for several hours. It's faster out on the grill. Can also be cooked in a roaster at 300 deg. Stir often!

3-4 large onions, chunked, or 8-10 small ones - whole
4 head of broccoli - cut up
5-6 small zucchini - chunked
2 bell pepper - chunked
1 head cauliflower - cut up
3-4 c. carrots - chunked
3-4 large tomatoes - chunked
2 lbs. Italian mushrooms - quartered or halved
1/2 to 3/4 of large bottle of Worchestershire sauce
1/2 to 1 stick real butter - sliced
1 1/2 c. red wine
salt and garlic to taste

Cover and cook until tender - there will be lots of juice. Great warmed up the next day if you have any left.

Sourdough Bread

2008-05-31T19:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally made my first loaf of sourdough bread. I must say I am so excited. I've never made sourdough and I was really surprised when I came home and it had risen so beautifully. I'm thinking I may have to continue to make this bread on a regular basis.

Seasoned Brisket

2008-05-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

Another family recipe received from my uncle. Don't know where he got it, but it's another keeper.

Combine the following five ingredients:

2 tsp. onion powder
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. celery salt
2 tsp. seasoned salt
1 1/2 tsp. pepper

brisket, trimmed
1/2 c. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 bottle liquid smoke

Place brisket in large roaster, or casserole dish. Or if you're really brave, place it in heavy foil and wrap well after adding all the liquid and dry mix.

Prick both sides of the brisket with a fork. Pour on 1/2 of the liquid and then 1/2 of the dry mix. Turn over and repeat. Refrigerate overnight (if you can, if not, that's ok, it just enhances the flavor). Cook with fat side UP. Cook at 250 deg. for 5 hours. Slice and put back in the juices. Serve with grilled veggies.

Chicken Salad Sandwiches

2008-05-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

This is such an easy recipe. I got it from my aunt during the reception after my grandma's funeral. Once you make these, you'll find out they are addictive, beware!

Chicken Salad Sandwiches

1 can (2 c.) chicken
1/2 c. mayonnaise
1/2 c. chopped celery
1 c. chopped water chestnuts
1 c. grapes OR mandarin oranges, cut up
1 tsp. Jane;s Mixed-Up Salt

Mix altogether and serve on croissants! Yummy!

Chocolate Upside Down Cake

2008-05-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

For years as a child, my mom would make this dessert for my dad. It was one of his favorites. I totally forgot about it until one day I was looking thru a cookbook I had put together as a Christmas gift years ago. I made it and yes, it tastes as good as it did back then. I don't know where she got the recipe from, but it's a definite keeper.

Chocolate Upside-Down Cake

2 c. Miniature marshmallows
1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. cocoa
2 c. hot water
1 pkg. Devil's Food Cake Mix
Chopped nuts, to taste

Place marshmallows in the bottom of a greased 13x9x2 pan. Combine sugar, cocoa and hot water. Pour over the marshmallows. Make cake mix according to directions on box. SLOWLY pour OVER the marshmallow mixture. Try and cover them - don't let them go to the top of the batter. Top with nuts. Bake at 375 deg. 45-50 minutes. Adjust for altitute according to cake directions on box.

When serving this cake, cut it and flip it upside down. Your "icing" is now on the top of the cake!

Excellent Pizza Crust from WalnutSpinney

2008-04-27T17:18:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe from a wonderful lady on Ravelry. Below is the link to her blog for the recipe.

http://www.walnutspinney.blogspot.com/2008/04/quick-pizza-without-resorting-to.html

Easy and Quick Homemade Bread

2008-04-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

I am bread challenged, but a friend gave me this recipe last year and I've played with it several times and changed it each time and it still comes out great. Be forewarned - it will fill up your mixer.

White/Wheat Bread

In mixing bowl:

5 c. warm water

3 T. Yeast, sprinkled over top with a little sugar (yes, Tablespoons)

Mix well. From this point, do not turn off your mixer.

Add in order:

2/3 c. oil

2 T. salt

3/4 c. sugar (can add up to 1 1/2 c. if you want - the bread will just be sweeter)

2 T. gluten or dough enhancer

11 - 13.5 cups flour. I use all white, but a good combo is 2 c. wheat and 11 c. white. The original recipe called for 5 c. wheat and 6-8.5 c. white.

Mix well. It will literally climb out of the mixer. Dump out onto a well floured area. Knead 20 to 25 times. Divide into four equal parts (I actually weigh it and divide by 4). Knead each individual piece until "smooth". Place in four greased pans. Cover with wax paper and put in oven turned off at 200 deg. Let rise. Approximately 20 minutes +/-. Remove from oven. Heat to 350 deg. Return to oven. Bake for 30 minutes. When done, remove from oven, butter the tops of the bread. Remove from pan after 10 minutes.

Is that Arizona in my backyard?

2008-04-13T15:28:00.001-07:00

Yes, it's the windy season and from the looks of our hoop house, Arizona is definitely passing by. We dread the months of Feb - May when our winds can hit up to 70 mph. So far this year, we haven't lost our hoop house (one of two).

Where do I begin??

2008-04-13T15:15:00.000-07:00

So, this is my first blog and we'll see how it goes. I am an avid crafter and baker. Hopefully, I'll be able to post a few of the things I make and bake as time goes by.