Saturday Five

I didn't like yesterday's Friday Five so I am using one of their quizzes from last year, Jan. 31st.

1. As a child, who was your favorite superhero/heroine? Why?
Roy Rogers
2. What was one thing you always wanted as a child but never got?
A white horse.
3. What's the furthest from home you've been?
Salzburg, Austria
4. What's one thing you've always wanted to learn but haven't yet?
How to maintain a weightloss.
5. What are your plans for the weekend?
I'm going to Weight Watchers.


Roy Rogers Riders Club Rules:

1. Be neat and clean.
2. Be courteous and polite.
3. Always obey your parents.
4. Protect the weak and help them.
5. Be brave but never take chances.
6. Study hard and learn all you can.
7. Be kind to animals and take care of them.
8. Eat all your food and never waste any.
9. Love God and go to Sunday school regularly.
10. Always respect our flag and our country





Happy Trails,
Donna

Feel free to share your Saturday Five.

Casting my Cares and reeling them back in

This seems to be the pattern. When I am deeply troubled, I have a hard time leaving my troubles where they belong...with God.

I wonder what my part is in the problem and how I can fix the problem.

I ask God to forgive me and give me wisdom. That part is not too hard for me. The fixing part, which is out of my control, is the place I get stuck.

I have a little booklet that a friend gave me a few years ago. It is pressed open to this quote;

"Say, "Lord, I'm putting it into Your hands. I'm going to turn that over to You. I refuse to fret anymore, I refuse to worry anymore. I refuse to be unduly concerned anymore about this. You said to cast it all on You because You love me: You care for me affectionately andc You care about me watchfully, and I thank You for it."
-Kenneth E. Hagin

Here are two verses I cling to;

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
Phil 4:6

"Casting all your care upon Him; for He cateth for you."
Peter 5:7


And a movie quote....A River Runs Through It.

"... but you can love completely without complete understanding."

Do you have someone in your life that you do not understand? ....and can't control?

"you can love completely without complete understanding."

*sigh*





Encourage one another,
Donna

Lookee what Janet sent me in the email!





My little sister has been hard at work this morning! She took a picture with her digital camera of our Christmas picture. Then she sent it to me. What a clever girl...and cute too :o)
Sweet girls and big college boys. I miss those big boys when they are away!
My cup runneth over! Really and truely!
Thanks Janet!!!

Guest Blog...Guest Blog!!!

Katie by Emma Boucher

Who is that girl with the swimsuit and tutu on? It could be none other than my four-year-old sister Katie. Katie is petite, extroverted and very dramatic. You couldn't ask for a better person to describe.

Katie's face is round and shiny, resembling the sun. If she were a Care Bear she'd be Cheerful Bear. Her big blue eyes seem to smile at you, even when they're glistening with tears. The long red hair that adorns her head is always messy from constant hopping, skipping, climbing and jumping. Katie's mouth may be small, but it never ever can keep quiet. There is a rotation of about five outfits she loves to wear; her favorites are her flowery leotard and a Snow White costume from Halloween.

Always full of energy, Katie can be very dramatic and is either ecstatic or bursting with tears. You never know what is coming next. Being the center of attention is what she likes best. She wishes to always be in charge, you may even say she is bossy.

Whenever there is cooking or cleaning to do Katie can't wait to help out. But sometimes she ends up getting in the way or causing trouble, like when she set her hair on fire!

Questions, questions, questions never end. What does that do? Where does this go? And the question asked every day, "Is it Tuesday?" Simply because gymnastics is on Tuesday's where Katie gets to romp around and be an acrobat. Dancing is a necessity while listening to music, at least that's what Katie thinks. Star Search is the show for her!

Katie is the only sister I have. She may be ten years younger than I, but I think that is the best part. The things she says and does fascinate me. Katie can always make me chuckle, even if she doesn't mean to. There are times I wish she wasn't around, but then she'll make me beam with pride when defending me in an argument. Our personalities are quite the opposite; she wants to be a hero who saves kittens out of trees and a movie star. I on the other hand never dreamed of either. But that's what makes me love her even more.

Describing the personality of my four-year-old sister has been interesting. It made me realize a few things I would have otherwise taken for granted. I think I'll appreciate Katie more and enjoy all the little things about her. You should take the time to know your siblings.





Emma is the fourteen year old daughter of Patrick and Donna Boucher. She is currently attending a writing class with several other homeschooled High Schoolers. She enjoys playing soccer, playing the guitar, getting together with friends, youth group at church and reading. She is the best big sister!

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Now, I really wish I had a digital camera!
Wouldn't it be sweet to have a photo of the girls....

HERE!

Oh well....I will be patient.

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Whose loves
Are dearer than the natural bond of sisters.
-William Shakespeare

Encourage one another,
Donna

Whimsy:A quaint or fanciful quality










Linnea Design
I love this woman's artwork. Her cards and calendars are not widely sold around here...but now I know where to find her...she has a website. (which I will link at the sidebar)
Enjoy looking around!

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Hymn
I am listening to a CD called Hymn performed by The American Boychoir.
It is heavenly.

Not only for their voices, but for the content of the material and the memories the gorgeous hymns bring back to me.
Growing up in a Traditional Lutheran church one sings these song over and over...and some of them become favorites.

Last Sunday (the church we attend is not Lutheran) the musical theme was 'holy'...we sang many praise songs with the word holy in them...Oh, please sing, "Holy, Holy, Holy" next, I thought.
And they did....we all did. The sound was full, the words were deep...it was beautiful!
Tears welled up in my eyes. And the young mom next to me was crying too. We couldn't sing the last verse. We couldn't sing "wert and art". (*just joking* My kids and I love those funny words) It made my morning.

"All creatures of our God and King" is playing now. Allelluia!

If you like hymns...get this cd!

If you know of other cd's with hymns well done, share with me :o)

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All Creatures of our God and King

All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!

Refrain

O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong
Ye clouds that sail in heaven along,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou rising moon, in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice!

Refrain

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
Make music for thy Lord to hear,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
That givest man both warmth and light.

Refrain

Dear mother earth, who day by day
Unfoldest blessings on our way,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
The flowers and fruits that in thee grow,
Let them His glory also show.

Refrain

And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on Him cast your care!

Refrain

And thou most kind and gentle Death,
Waiting to hush our latest breath,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou leadest home the child of God,
And Christ our Lord the way hath trod.

Refrain

Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son,
And praise the Spirit, Three in One!

Refrain
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*The words of that song were written in 1225 by St. Francis of Assisi. The verses are meaningful and respectful and deep. I love it!

Listen to the song at http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/a/c/acoogak.htm.
You will remember the tune....I am sure!

Well...I was just all over the place today wasn't I. Dear Katie needs some attention.

Encourage one another,
Donna

Pre-school Science Class
It is as simple as reading carefully chosen books. The above 'Read and Wonder' books are sweet and educational. I wouldn't have thought of them as science if it weren't for the little silver sticker on the outside that says " An Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children."

I just liked the pretty pictures at first. But then...

Katie and I learned that the daddy penguin sits on the egg while mommy is off swimming and eating.
Who knew?

We learned that a Goose dances like a ballerina.
Really!

We learned that science is interesting especially when it is written well for children.

My Goose Betsy by Trudi Braun
The Emperor's Egg by Martin Jenkins

I'm sure they are in your local library.

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Science for Believers

The Bible
Genesis 1: 1-31

31 And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good.

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Science Quote

The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.
Albert Einstein


Encourage one another,
Donna

Pretty Kuyeron

This is the yarn I am currently knitting with. (There, preposition at the end of a sentence, true Midwest form :o)
I am knitting an extra large booja bag. Perhaps when I am finished I will be tired of this yarn....but it is so interesting and pretty the way it changes colors while I knit. I am usually more interested in the touch of the yarn.

Oooo....alpaca...cashmere....

This yarn delights my eyes.

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Golden Globes

For those of you who do not know this......I love award shows.

Not all of them. I like the Oscars, the Emmys, the Tonys and the Golden Globes.
And the main reason is that I love to see all the pretty dresses.
Cate Blanchett wins for best dressed!






Worst dressed goes to Nicole Kidman.







Diane Keaton and Bill Murray gave the funniest acceptance speeches.

I was again amazed how many shows are nominated and win that I have never heard of and can't watch because they are on HBO or Showtime or some other pay station. Oh well...I watch enough TV as it is...

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If you want deep thoughts and humor and wisdom...Check out Carmen's Buried Treasure site today.
Gotta love that Prairie Muffin!

Prairie Muffin in the making,
Donna

p.s. Thank you to Emma for finding the photo :o)
p.p.s. Encourage one another

Peace







Help me to live this day quietly, easily;
To lean upon Thy great strength trustfully,
restfully;
To meet others peacefully, joyously;
To face tomorrow confidently, courageously.
-from Elisabeth Elliot

Encourage one another,
Donna

Rain Man

Yes, that's me. I am the Euchre Savant.

I have played euchre three times. I honestly feel completely lost and laugh and giggle through the game... amazingly, my partner and I always win! The winning is usually due to my cards.

Our friends (the ones who know how to play) sweetly re-explain the game each time we play (and through out the game) I understand it a little bit...but it takes every bit of my silly brain to know what card to play.

Dennis (male-friend) thinks I am capable of understanding strategy. He thinks I can remember what cards the other people have in their hands. I can't.

Mary (gal-friend) is gentle and helpful and gets lots of bad cards. (last night at least...you see when we are partners...we win :o)

Patrick (dear hubby) catches on much quicker than I, and wonders why it takes me soooo long to put down a card.

I hear it is supposed to be a quick game :o)

We really do have fun...and we all marvel at my special abilities....go figure...?...

________________

Oh, by the way...."I'm an excellent driver."

________________

("Historically, individuals with these exceptional skills were called 'idiot savants,' a French term meaning unlearned (idiot) skill (savant). In a 1978 article in Psychology Today, Dr. Bernard Rimland introduced a more appropriate term 'autistic savant,' which is often used.")

_________________


I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.
Martha Washington (1732 - 1802)


Encourage one another,
Donna

Friday Five

At this moment, what is your favorite...

1. ...song? White Flag
I love to sing along with this song. The words are easy to learn.

2. ...food? Friendship bread by Natural Ovens
First step to healthier eating

3. ...tv show? Regis and Kelly
They make me laugh out loud.

4. ...scent? Quelques Fluers
First smelled it in a NM catalog.

5. ...quote? "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."
Mom










Potato Soup

I remember eating potato soup. It was my favorite soup. Much better than pea soup *ick*.
I do not have our mother's recipie and I don't know if anyone else even remembers liking or eating this delicious soup. It did not have chunks of anything in it. It was creamy.

Then one day my brother-in-law came for lunch and decided to make potato soup. The basic flavor of the soup is very much like our mom's soup...but it is chunkier and has bacon in it. It is delicious. I have been making it ever since. Who'd a thunk my brother-in-law would bring me my favorite soup recipie.

Here it is...chunks and all....Mom used a potato masher to get hers creamy. I think I will try that next time.

6 potatoes
2 stalks celery (chopped)
1 carrot (shredded)
1/2 onion (chopped)
2 c. water
2 cubes chicken bouillon
salt, pepper
2 c. milk
1/3 c. flour
cheese (real cheese or 4-8 pieces of American cheese slices)
bacon (as much as you like)
a little sour cream on top

Boil veggies in the water until soft with the bouillon. Add 1 2/3 cups of milk and make a paste out of the other 1/3 cup of milk and flour. (I don't always do the flour thickening)
Add cheese and bacon. Heat through.
Sour cream and chopped scallions are yummy plopped and sprinkled on top too.

___________

Not much help for the Atkins crowd :o) How about some bacon and sour cream?

Encourage one another,
Donna

The List

Beware:Mundane stuff ahead!

I have been going to the grocery store EVERY day for the last month. I must be losing my mind! I really like our little grocery store. ( Imagine a small town, one grocery store, locally owned by the same folks for 100 years, you smile and say hello to the checkers and baggers and ask the butcher for an English roast. ) This is Millers and Sons. I like it there....but this is getting ridiculous.

Almost all of the checks in my checkbook say, "Millers".

"Where your money is, there you heart is also." Just kidding :o)

I have just been forgetful, I don't have a plan...my husband tells me, when I get home, "I need coffee."

So I was visiting with Jean in Wisconsin (from the Well Trained Mind boards ) the other day. She and her daughter came over for an afternoon visit. (They live an hour away, but this is what one does for friendship these days.) Anyway...she is enthused with her new improved schedule she has for herself. It's going great...really great! So I tell her of my shopping blight. She says, "Take a list".

This is where you all say...DUH!

And you know what... I say "Ya think" too...

I have resisted The List for 23 years. My dear patient husband suggested The List when we were first married and I was always forgetting the peanut butter or the jelly. But what does he know...he is not going to tell me to take a list....*pride showing*

So Jean in Wisconsin says, "Take a list." and I say, "Good idea!"

So that evening, I tell dear hubby I am tired of going to the grocery store every day and that I am going to download a nice handy dandy list...

"I told you to take a list 23 years ago!"

Yeah...yeah...yeah...


So I made The List and took The List (in my pretty felt bag) to the store and had a fulfilling shopping experience. I told my friends at the store..."I won't be back for a week now....I have a LIST."

Dear hubby was delighted..."Ooo there's Coke....Oooo you remembered lunch bags....Ooo....

All's well that ends well....NOT

I forgot to put dishwashing soap on THE LIST :o) Maybe Patrick will run into the store to get it.

Encourage one another,
Donna

Living Life

When my circumstances are difficult, I am such a good student of the Word...I pray without ceasing and my eyes are constantly on God. I am hanging on with all my might.

It is a great time of growth. Personal steps toward God, refining of my character, exposing my sinfulness, realizing my complete lack of control.

Can you tell, my circumstances are pretty unstressful right now? I know that I would not be reflecting in such a peaceful way if I were presently in the fire. And I am not going to fret that I will be one day back in the fire...most likely I will....but I am really more interested in living in the present and being very grateful for the quiet times :o)

God has drawn me close to Him....and for me, that is everything.

I was asked what books have helped me in my role as a mother. The more I thought of it I realized it was not intentionally working on being a good mother that has helped me grow as a mother...it is learning to obey what the Lord is telling me to do in the Bible.

Common, familiar Scriptures like, "Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,...bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." (1Cor. 13:5-8)

Taking scriptures like these to heart have made a big difference in my behavior.

I think my greatest weakness was my temper and selfishness when the big kids were small. I had a pretty short fuse...my temper is much quieted now...but I am still very selfish.

I think aging and Katie and God's instruction will help cure me of that one...In good time :o)

So I guess I am saying the more I try to live in a way that pleases God...the better a mother I am.


Holy Confidence

"Go on in all simplicity: do not be so anxious to win a quiet mind, and it will be all the quieter. Do not examine so closely into the progress of your soul. Do not crave so much to be perfect, but let your spiritual life be formed by your duties, and by the actions which are called forth by circumstances. Do not take overmuch thought for tomorrow. God, who has led you safely so far will lead you on to the end. Be altogether at rest in the loving holy confidence which you ought to have in His heavenly Providence."
St. Francis de Sales

That gem is from The Elisabeth Elliot Newsletter. See link at sidebar.




Encourage one another,
Donna

Good Morning

Today will be a different sort of day. Actually very different.

For ten years I have homeschooled and I have resisted leaving the home in the morning. I have been lured to come to Bible Studies, women's gatherings, children's classes and shopping excursions.
I have always said "No, I can't, we homeschool in the mornings and I need to be there."

Since September, I have been asked by three young mother's at church if I would come to their Bible study. I said 'no' I can't. Well on Friday at Emma's choir class a mom I am pretty close to (I attended her last birth...I'd say pretty close :o) asked if I would come to the Bible study...She said they were reading a book called Creative Correction and she just kept wishing I was there....

The women are young...with children all under ten. I am a veteran, I guess. I am an older woman.
Titus 2 is calling out to me. "Older women are to teach the younger women to love their husbands and children..."

I spoke with my husband...he said I should do it. I talked with Emma about it....she said I should do it.

So Emma will do most of her work by herself today. I will check her math. (I'm not much of a help with math anyway :o) I will do Warriner's English with her. She will read her schedule and check off her subjects as she goes.

She really is the sweetest student.

Me: Here Emma, let's read the Epic of Gilgamech.
Emma: O.K., mom.

Where did she get that sweet and gentle spirit? I want to be just like her when I grow up!

So back to the Bible study...there is an extra perk. One of my New Years Resolutions was; Help Katie make friends and learn to be a friend. Well, during the Bible study, they have hired a gym teacher and she is conducting a little gym class for the children. Katie will love this! Besides loving being with other children...she needs to be with other children. She needs to learn to take turns and listen to others. She needs to do something that is not her idea. *grin*

***********

Here's another thing, and perhaps the most pressing to me personally, I am unsure that I will be able to add much of value.

Believe me, I am not fishing for compliments.

Please say a prayer that I would be wise and encouraging to the younger moms....and that I would listen twice as much as I talk.

This is an answer to prayer, being of service to younger women, and I know deep down God will equip me...

"Encourage one another and build each other up."

Donna

Martin Luther King Jr.'s Amazing Speech

"I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith with which I return to the South. With this faith we will be able to hew our of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous peaks of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and every molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

When we let freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

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School Anyway

We will not skip school today. Christmas break was a bit long with the boys home from college.
Instead I think I will have Emma read Dr. King's speech outloud to me as a part of history. Quite a bit off the schedule (we are studying ancients) but it is a wonderful, important speech.

I can not read it outloud. I am sure I would start crying.

This is a common occurrence around here. I can not finish reading Where the Red Fern Grows or The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, either. My throat gets tight and the tears well up and I hand the book over to one of the kids and say, "Here, you finish reading."

Last weekend I was watching the National Woman's Ice Skating Championship on tv...Sasha Cohn had skated beautifully but she fell leaving a big opening for Michelle Kwan. Well Michelle (who was considered a bit of an underdog) came out and skated perfectly, exuberantly, brilliantly. It was thrilling! I broke out in tears for her.

Bwahhaaaa....

Seeing this my daughter says. "You're crying about this!!!"

Choke, sniff, "I am so happy for her...Don't make fun of me."

In rush my husband and son to see what all the excitement is about.
I am an embarrassed, sentimental, spectacle.

Ugh!!! I can't help it.

(You understand, don't you, Sue?)






What a great champion!

___________________

Here is a fun question to ask around the dinner table...
If you could do one thing, and not fail, what would it be?

Encourage one another,
Donna

Rejoice

"I do not know when I have had happier times in my soul, than when I have been sitting at work, with nothing before me but a candle and a white cloth, and hearing no sound but that of my own breath, with God in my soul and heaven in my eye...I rejoice in being exactly what I am, a creature capable of loving God, and who, as long as God lives, must be happy. I get up and look for a while out of the window, and gaze at the moon and stars, the work of an Almighty hand. I think of the grandeur of the universe, and then sit down, and think myself one of the happiest beings in it."

-A poor Methodist woman, eighteenth century
-from Gateway to Joy by Elisabeth Elliot


Reflect

The Lord's lovingkindness indeed never cease,
for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Thy faithfulness.
"The Lord is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I have hope in Him."
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him,
to the person who seeks Him.
It is good that he waits silently
for the salvation of the Lord.

-Lamentations 3:22-26


Encourage one another,
Donna

Bright Morning by Steven Kozar








Last year I picked up a little five dollar calendar from our local library and I just loved the artwork and the theme. The theme was Down on the Farm. This quote was on the first page;

If a man can't be happy on a little farm in Wisconsin,
he doesn't have the makings of happiness in his soul.
-Nick Engelbert (1881-1962), farmer-artist

I have a longing to live on a farm. It is really the "idea" of a farm...I know the reality is much, much different than my dream. And to be honest, I don't know if I have what it takes to be a true farm girl.
I would like "the good parts version" of a farm life. For me it's all about the view and the clouds and the fresh eggs and the kittens and the breeze.

I choose not to dream about the manure and the flies and the cold mornings and the hard work.

My dream...my way :o)

Thanks Sweetie


Just so I don't get the credit for learning how to post a photo...

Thank you dear, sweet, gentle spirit, computer-savy, fourteen year old daughter, Emma!

She even wrote out directions for me last night so I could put my photo up this morning.

Me: Emma, could you write out directions for me so I don't have to wake you up in the morning when I want to blog?
Emma: Mom!!!

Also, thanks to the many offers of help I received from my friends in space. :o)


____________________

Do you think I could consider that computer class and a writing assignment? *wink*

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If you like the picture of the painting above be sure to check out the artists webpage.

http://www.stevenkozar.com/

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One of my favorite books that I have read for entertainment in the last few years is a book called Fifty Acres and a Poodle by Jeanne Marie Laskas. It is funny, funny, funny!


That's all folks....enjoy the view!

Donna

Pretty felt booja bag! This is exactly what my bag looks like!

Every Tuesday for ten years I met with eight women and we quilted and knitted and talked and ate and learned and laughed! I miss it all so much! It really was an old fashioned quilting bee!

Carmen over at Buried Treasure reminded me of this by posting a photo this morning. (Click on Buried Treasure at my sidebar).

It is exactly three years since we moved away. Making friends is a slow process. Finding women who are interested in working with their hands, are home during the day and are not too busy for a little time with friends is very rare indeed.

(I'm just not as busy as other women....I wonder what I am leaving out :o)

So to my fellow Quilters (we refer to ourselves as 'Quilters')...

I miss you...I love you....I wish I could see what you are working on....How are the kids?

__________________

Friday is Recipe Day


Everybody at quilting liked my carrot cake...so I will share it with my new friends whom I have 'Found in Space'.

Carrot Cake

1 1/2 cup salad oil
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
3 cups raw carrots finely grated

- Combine and beat well the oil and sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time on high. Add flour, soda, salt and cinnamon. Fold in carrots. Grease and flour pan. Pour into pan :o)
Bake in 9x13 pan at 350 for 35-40 min.

Icing

1 package cream cheese
1/2 stick butter
1 pound powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla

Mix Well. Ice when the cake is cool.


Homeschool choir

We are fortunate to have a homeschool choir here in the Madison area. Today is the first day of class for this semester! Emma is excited! I'm happy for her! They will have a tour in the Spring....big highlight of the year.

My challenge is how to get five days of schooling in while missing every Friday morning at home. Hmmmm
Not exactly the schedule I prefer but I do think the benefits( singing, friendships, classroom experience) outweigh the jostling of the schedule.

It'll work out. It always does :o)

Donna

Hi again...

I'm so sorry I can't figure out how to post a picture. I try and try and it won't work.
Here is a bag that looks exactly like the one I just finished.

http://boogaj.typepad.com/photos/kureyon_bag_gallery/kristine.html

It is smaller than I expected...I may just have to make another one, just a little larger...*grin*

Donna

Chicks in the Nest

My big chick is back. He was on holiday in Washington. Middle chick and I drove to O'Hare to pick him up...in the middle of the night! This 2 1/2 hour drive each way...four times....saved big chick...$100.

I was once a young chick too...I guess I understand :o)

We drove all the way home without the radio on...and talked and listened and talked some more.

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Tibi splendet focus

One of my favorite books is called Mother Carey's Chickens. It is written by Kate Douglas Wiggins.
It is very much like Little Women. Motherhood is esteemed in this book and for that I love it!

"For you the hearth fire glows."

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Is it Tuesday?

Tuesday is gymnastics day for Katie. It is an exciting day for Katie Gracie. She gets to visit other children and talk and spin and roll and flit about. So almost every day she asks, "Is it Tuesday?"

She likes her hand me down gymnastic outfit very much.

When she is not wearing this fun outfit, she wears a pink crushed velvet leotard and tutu with sparkly red 'Wizard of Oz' ruby slippers, like today. Or she wears a cute Wisconsin Badgers cheerleading outfit...or a bunny costume....or for days and days...she is Snow White!!!

Emma and I are much more sedate with out daily dress...we rarely wear costumes :o)

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School time...

I love to read your comments...hint...hint...

Donna

Cheap Thrills

Sitting on the kitchen table on a shoebox is the prettiest, dampest wool felted bag.
According to the instructions it will take two days to dry. I am dying to make another one. It is just the quickest and cutest project. The yarn was a delight to work with. I have never used yarn that changed colors and made stripes like this yarn (Noro Kureyon) and it was so interesting.

Here is a little information about felting.

It is the hot water and the agitation that make something felt.
Hot water alone will not do it!
Do not let the washing machine go into the spin cycle. This can cause creases.
A shoe box is the perfect shape on which to put your wet bag.
Beware...this can become addicting :o)

Check the sidebar for photos and the link to the pattern for the Booja felted bag!

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Oui, Oui...

I don't know what got into me...I bought some Hawaiian Punch. Must be nostalgia. Our mother did not have pop in the house for us to drink...we had Hawaiian Punch. So I brought some home for the kids...and gee...they like it too!

So Katie had a big slurp of Hawaiian Punch this morning for breakfast and grinned and showed me her pinkish, reddish mustache. I, using my very best bad French accent, exclaimed, "Oh, Wee, Wee, I see you have a red mustache' ." Katie giggles with delight. I have hit her funny bone. She runs off to have another drink, turns and smiles at me again. "Auwaaaa (French sounding exclamation) You have a red mustache', you must be a boy." "Noooo, I'm a girl" states Katie, in HER best four year old bad French accent....this hilarity continues for about ten more minutes.

Katie learns to say Mare-see Bow-coo, drinks her whole cup of juice and has just a grand time.
We really have fun together...Us two.

Oh she also informs me that when Matthew and Patrick wake up she is going to play blackjack with them!!!
HUH??

Us Two

Wherever I am, there's always Pooh,
There's always Pooh and Me.
Whatever I do, he wants to do,
"Where are you going today?" says Pooh:
"Well, that's very odd 'cos I was too.
Let's go together," says Pooh, says he.
"Let's go together," says Pooh.

"What's twice eleven?" I said to Pooh.
("Twice what?" said Pooh to Me.)
"I think it ought to be twenty-two."
"Just what I think myself," said Pooh.
"It wasn't an easy sum to do,
But that's what it is," said Pooh, said he.
"That's what it is," said Pooh.

"Let's look for dragons," I said to Pooh.
"Yes, let's," said Pooh to Me.
We crossed the river and found a few-
"Yes, those are dragons all right," said Pooh.
"As soon as I saw their beaks I knew.
That's what they are," said Pooh, said he.
"That's what they are," said Pooh.

"Let's frighten the dragons," I said to Pooh.
"That's right," said Pooh to Me.
"I'm not afraid," I said to Pooh,
And I held his paw and I shouted "Shoo!
Silly old dragons!"- and off they flew.

"I wasn't afraid," said Pooh, said he,
"I'm never afraid with you."

So wherever I am, there's always Pooh,
There's always Pooh and Me.
"What would I do?" I said to Pooh,
"If it wasn't for you," and Pooh said: "True,
It isn't much fun for One, but Two,
Can stick together, says Pooh, says he. "That's how it is," says Pooh.
-A. A. Milne
-from Now We Are Six


Encourage one another :o)

Donna

Dizzy

No, I'm not talking about my personality in general being dizzy :o) My head is spinning from the amount of books I am 'reading'. In my attempt to write an interesting blog I have increased my reading materials three fold. Instead of finding something encouraging to share from one of the books I am finding out that too many books make me dizzy.

Here is a llist of the excellent books I read portions of yesterday,

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A' Kempis
Heidi by Johanna Spyri
More Love to Thee by George Prentiss
The Bible (NASB)
The Summer House by Alice Thomas Ellis
Called to Obedience by Howie and Dennie Dowell
Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne

These are all wonderful books...just not read at the same time and in small snippets.

Educating Donna

In my first two weeks of blogging I have learned so much! I have learned how to write in html a little, I have learned that hackers really exist (the comments section of my blog is disabled due to a hacker!), and I have learned a little bit more about myself.

More than believing that I personally have something important to express, I love sharing with others with the special things that have encouraged me.

Titus 2:3-5

3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, (6) not malicious gossips nor (7) enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good,
4 so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,
5 to be sensible, pure, (8) workers at home, kind, being (9) subject to their own husbands, (10) so that the word of God will not be dishonored.

I know I am not worthy of this 'calling'. I certainly don't feel wise enough or kind enough or diligent enough at home....but I am an older woman...and it looks like I don't have a way out....if I want to obey God :o)

Trust and Obey

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.

Refrain

Trust and obey, for there?s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

-John H. Sammis

I can't sing that song without tears :o)

Donna

I will re-apply the comments link when it is safe to do so. In the meantime I will try to link our e-mail over in the sidebar...in case your dying to talk to me *big grin*

I am finished knitting the Booga J bag. The i-cord is coming along nicely. I found instructions on a website and wha-la ! As soon as the i-cord is done, I will felt my pretty little bag. Report at 11:00. :o)
This is the easiest pattern and is a delight to knit. So thrilling! Yes, knitting can be thrilling AND build character (courage, patience).

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Song from the Suds

Queen of my tub, I merrily sing,
While the white foam raises high,
And sturdily wash, and rinse, and wring,
And fasten the clothes to dry;
Then out in the free fresh air they swing,
Under the sunny sky.

I wish we could wash from our hearts and our souls
The stains of the week away,
And let water and air by their magic make
Ourselves as pure as they;
Then on the earth there would be indeed
A glorious washing day!

Along the path of a useful life
Will heart's-ease ever bloom;
The busy mind has no time to think
Of sorrow, or care, or gloom;
And anxious thoughts may be swept away
As we busily wield a broom.

I am glad a task to me is given
To labor at day by day;
For it brings me health, and strength, and hope,
And I cheerfully learn to say-
"Head, you may think; heart, you may feel;
But hand, you shall work always!"

-Louisa May Alcott

___________________

Off to give Katie some breakfast and dress for school...she wants sugar toast.
Guess I'll give her some vitamins too!

Donna

Jane Austen for Preschoolers

Just this morning before heading off to church I spotted Sense and Sensibility on television. Of course, I had to stop and watch a bit! Katie (4) came into the room and looked at the tv.

Katie: Is this with Mr. Darcy?
Me: No, this is Sense and Sensibility. Mr. Darcy is not in this movie. This has Mr. Willoughby and Brandon.
Katie: (starts looking for our Pride and Prejudice DVD that is in a pile of DVD's on the floor.)
Me: They are wearing the same kind of clothes and speak the same way as they do in the movie with Mr. Darcy... they were both written by the same author, Jane Austen.
Katie: (finds the Pride and Prejudice DVD, holds it up, smiles sweetly) Here is Mr. Darcy.

If you love the clothing worn in Sense and Sensibility and Emma, check out this site;
http://www.sensibility.com/mainpage.htm

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The Love of God


Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.

What a fantastic word picture!
You can even go and listen to the song and read a little more of the back story to this hymn.

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/l/o/loveofgo.htm

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Homemaking

I was thinking about how the subtitle to my blog includes homemaking...you may have guessed I consider knitting and cooking to be the more interesting duties of a homemaker...
So in order to legitimize my homemaking claim here are two tips.

That OUST really works. I like the 'outdoor scent'.

Bagless vacuums are kinda messy to empty.

*grin*


....and perhaps for the last time this year...

Go Pack Go

Donna

Easily Amused

It really doesn't take much to amuse me. I laughed for days (to my family's chagrin) when Kolbi called Saddam Hussein, So-damn Insane. It still makes me chuckle.

While reading The Common Reader (a book catalog with great descriptions) I spotted a clever book title,

Never let a fool kiss you or a kiss fool you.

This type of phrasing is called a Chiasmus (ky-AZ-mus). The adjective being chiastic.
I thought this was interesting enough to borrow the book from our amazing local library. Dr. Mardy Grothe explains much more about the chiasmus in this tiny tome.

Here are some of my favorites:

"Try to learn something about everything
and everything about something."
-Thomas H. Huxley

"A comedian does funny things;
a good comedian does things funny."
-Buster Keaton

"It is better to be looked over
than overlooked."
-Mae West

"It is better to deserve honors and not have them
than to have them and not deserve them."
-Mark Twain

"Better to write for yourself and have no public,
than to write for the public and have no self."
-Cyril Connolly

"It begins when you sink in his arms.
It ends with your arms in his sink."
-Anonymous, on marriage

"You can give without loving
but you cannot love without giving."
-Amy Wilson Carmichael

And finally, last but not least...

"He made football players out of some men,
but I think he's much more proud that
he made men out of some football players."
-Marie Lombardi,
on her husband Vince

Go Pack :o)

Just a small sample of the chiasmus.

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Calm Confidence

I am thankful that my husband and I don't have to parent alone. We trust that we have a Heavenly Father who is very much in control. So when things are out of our control...we have confidence that God knows exactly what He is doing. Our oldest was traveling by air across the country this week and was stranded Las Vegas (Lost Wages as my father used to say) on his way to Seattle. I was sad and disappointed for Patrick (21) to have to endure this inconvenience, but I was able to sleep soundly because I knew that he was in God's care.
There is no doubt that I CAN worry like a champion. But as I get older and trust more in God's words (in the Bible) I am learning to caste my cares on Him.

For Our Children

Father, hear us, we are praying,
Hear the words our hearts are saying,
We are praying for our children.

Keep them from the powers of evil,
From the secret, hidden peril,
From the whirlpool that would suck them,
From the treacherous quicksand, pluck them.

From the worldling's hollow gladness,
From the sting of faithless sadness,
Holy Father, save our children.

Through life's troubled waters steer them,
Through life's bitter battle cheer them,
Father, Father, be Thou near them.
Read the language of our longing,
Read the wordless pleadings thronging,
Holy Father, for our children.

-Amy Carmichael, from "For Our Children."

___________________________________

I would not know who Amy Carmichael is were it not for lovely Elisabeth Elliot. You are loved!


Donna

Back in the Saddle Again

Sarah (Poppins Classical Academy) created a questionnaire for today.
Here are my responses to her questions:


Best Resource on your shelf you *don't* use:
The Annals of America-we are not in this time period right now.

Favorite Resource:
The Well-Trained Mind

Least Favorite Resource(that you use often):
Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary. It's just too big.

Resource that you wish you hadn't spent good money on:
The Annals of America

3 Resources which you OWN that you'd take if you had to homeschool on a desert island:
The Well-Educated Mind, The Bible, can I bring some Diet Dr. Pepper instead of a third book?

Resource you most wish was on your shelf right now:
A Child's History of Art by Hillyer

Best Homeschooling Memory:
Reading Little Women and Tom Sawyer to all three kids. Going to Williamsburg and Washington DC for the world's best field trip!

Part of homeschooling you're best at:
Choosing reading material and encouraging my children.

Part of homeschooling you're worst at:
Higher Math!!!

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My yarn arrived yesterday, so I am knitting away on my felted bag. (Check sidebar for photos of similar bags). This is an extremely easy pattern. I encourage you to try it! The only thing I have not heard of is an i-cord. If I can't figure it out by trial and error I will head over to the Sow's Ear (our local knitting shoppe) and ask them to show me how to do it.

The yarn is not as bright as I imagined it would be but it feels nice and it is fun to watch the stripes develop as I knit along.
Emma (14) likes the colors and I am trying to get her to make one also. We shall see how persuasive I can be. She has knitted many a scarf and I know she can handle this project. Perhaps I will force her to do it :o) I will put it on her schedule...hey that's the ticket...forced knitting. I have been know to say, "If you're just going to be sitting there watching TV, you might as well knit!"

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YUM


This is a delicious salad. They sell something like it at deli's...but this is better. It comes from
Cooking from Quilt Country by Marcia Adams. I have altered her recipe by adding cauliflower for some variety.

Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad

1 bunch broccoli
1 head cauliflower
10 slices bacon
1/3 cup raisins
1 large red onion
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds

Chop up broccoli and cauliflower. (Eight cups all together.) Fry bacon and set aside. Chop onion. Combine broccoli, cauliflower, onion, raisins and bacon. Whisk together mayo, sugar, vinegar, and pepper.
Pour dressing over vegetables. Refrigerate. Top with sunflower seeds.

Hope you like it!

Encourage one another,
Donna

Winter-Time

"Before the stars have left the skies,
At morning in the dark I rise;
And shivering in my nakedness,
By the candle, bathe and dress,"

Robert Louis Stevenson

Yes...that is how we feel in Wisconsin in the mornings in the Winter-Time.

I was going to start schooling today after our long Christmas break but Katie has just received a rare invitation to play with a little girl and boy. So I think school will start tomorrow. Katie has so few opportunities to play with children her age. She will be thrilled.
Emma won't mind the extra day to sleep in and I will be keeping one of my goals for this year...Helping Kaite to make friends.

Perhaps Emma can do Algebra, read The Odyssey and Warriner's English this afternoon. Well, there you have it...journaling and daily school planning in one quick step!

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A Lesson for Children.

Pray to God.
Love God.
Fear God.
Serve God.
Take not God's
Name in vain.
Do not Swear.
Do not Steal.
Cheat not in your play.
Play not with bad boys.
Call no ill names.
Use no ill words.
Tell no lies.
Hate Lies.
Speak the Truth.
Spend your Time well.
Love your School.
Mind your Book.
Strive to learn.
Be not a Dunce

The New England Primer of 1777

_____________________________

I think the order of the poem is important.
Isn't the last line a hoot! Be not a Dunce :o)

Encourage one another,
Donna

Personal Writing

To blog or not to blog?

I really don't like conflict. Defending oneself is pretty futile.
Sharing something important or interesting...that's more like it :o)

Writer's Inc. is a helpful, encouraging resource.

"There is one type of writing, however, that may have more to offer than most movies. It is called personal writing, or writing that comes from within, carried out because you have a personal need to explore or share your experiences."

"Once you get into personal writing, you'll soon realize your thoughts and experiences are no more than starting points. You'll begin to turn these initial ideas inside out and see them in new ways. This might sound like heady stuff, but it really isn't. Personal writing is simply an effective way to examine your world."

"Journal writing works best when it is done on a regular basis....The important point is to get into a writing routine."

"In the best of all worlds, journal writing will become a very important part of your life, right up there with good friends and good food. But we will settle for something far more practical and down to earth: That through journal writing you will begin to feel more comfortable with the physical act of writing and more confident in your ability to express yourself."
______________________________

It is a gem of a book!

______________________________


"Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it,...and, above all. accurately so they will be guided by its light."
-Joseph Pulitzer


Encourage one another,
Donna

[img]http://www.thewritesource.com/HB_cvrs/INCfull.gif[/img]

The Sweetest Thing

One of the sweetest things I find on the blogs I read is the high regard many of these women have for their husbands. I find this very refreshing and encouraging.

To My Dear and Loving Husband

If ever two were one, then surely we.
If ever man were loved by wife, then thee;
If ever wife was happy in a man,
Compare with me ye women if you can.
I prize thy love more than whole mines of gold,
Or all the riches that the East doth hold.
My love is such that rivers cannot quench,
Nor ought but love from thee give recompense.
Thy love is such I can no way repay;
The heavens reward thee manifold, I pray.
Then while we live, in love let's so persever,
That when we live no more we may live ever.

Anne Bradstreet 1676

___________________________________________


I am get ready (mentally) to start yet another diet....er...life-style change...

In theory, I like the principles laid out in What the Bible Says About Healthy Living.

The author, Dr. Rex Russell says, "My study of the Scriptures, my study of medicine and the application of these areas in my life have led me to three core goals or principles that I believe God has imparted to us to live healthier lives." He continues, "If you will memorize these three simple principles, a multitude of otherwise confusing decisions about health and diet can be simplified. And you'll be healthier for it! Here they are:

Principle I: Eat only substances God created for food.
avoid what is not designed for food.

Principle II: As much as possible, eat foods as they were
created-before they are changed or converted into
something humans think might be better.

Principle III: Avoid food addictions. Don't let any food
or drink become you god.


Makes sense to me on one level...but do you think that means I shouldn't be drinking my beloved Diet Dr. Pepper? :o)

Just one more thing about this topic, for now... I love this website and Mrs. Becker's articles. www.breadbeckers.com

I am a wheat-grinding-bread-making dreamer.
My excuse for not doing so....no one will eat it but me!

ttfn,
Donna

Donna's Most Frequently Viewed Movies


1. The Wizard of Oz
2. Singin in the Rain
3. Gone with the Wind
4. King of Kings
5. Rocky
6. White Christmas
7. Heidi
8. The Jerk
9. Parenthood
10. To Kill a Mockingbird
11. Pride and Prejudice
12. You've Got Mail
13. The Princess Bride
14. It's A Wonderful Life
15. Sleepless in Seattle
16. When Harry Met Sally
17. Greencard
18. Big
19. Uncle Buck
20. The Goodbye Girl


The top six movies on the list I can quote parts verbatim! Many of the movies have risen to the frequently viewed status because they are on television so often...and I can't resist stopping and watching them (Uncle Buck and Greencard are in this category). The Wizard of Oz, Heidi, Wonderful Life and Kings of Kings have been favorites since I was young. Pride and Prejudice is climbing the list quickly.
I haven't seen The Goodbye Girl in 20 years! But I can remember some of the lines and some of the dance steps...so that reminds me that I really loved that movie at one time. I am going to rent it this week.

They are not all squeaky clean :o) So check www.screenit.com before you rent any of them...if you are worried about the content.

Funny story....Many years ago, I recommended my sister and husband rent Parenthood. I raved about how funny it was! So my sister rented the movie. A few days later I asked her how she and her husband like it.

"Well, we really thought it was a weird movie."

"Weird? How was it weird?"

"The parents were cannibals."

"Cannibals!!!"

"Oh, Sis, You were watching Parents not Parenthood!"

" I kept telling my husband...Donna says this is a really funny movie!?!?"

Yikes! Get the titles right :o)

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The Ten Commandments in Verse


Above all else love God alone;
Bow down to neither wood or stone.
God's name refuse to take in vain;
The Sabbath rest with care maintain.
Respect your parents all your days;
Hold sacred human life always.
Be loyal to your chosen mate;
Steal nothing neither small nor great.
Report, with truth, your neighbor's deed;
And rid your mind of selfish greed."

from the MuGuffey Reader

I think I will commit that to memory. It's sweet.

Donna...in snowy, pretty Wisconsin

Do you ever wish you could go back in time to the church of your childhood? I do.
I miss the hymns. I miss their sound, their meaning, their half rhymes and that they were read from a hymnal. I miss saying the responses and The Lord's Prayer and The Apostle's Creed...in the same language as it was said when I was taking confirmation(in the 70's) I can still sing the tunes to the songs that we sang after the offering and communion. "We praise Thee, We Bless Thee, We Worship Thee."

Everything is new now...all the tunes have changed. (Today we sang a song to the tune of "For the Beauty of the Earth" I would have rather sung the original.)

I don't mean to complain. I am a hopelessly nostalgic, traditional girl. I am longing for the way things were.

I would just like to borrow the car from "Back to the Future" and set it to....."Sunday;1971;St. Paul's Lutheran;Wheaton, Ill."
It would be heavenly....I would probably cry through the whole service.


Found it!

"A careful woman I ought to be;
a little girl follows me.
I do not dare to go astray,
for fear she'll go the selfsame way.
Not once can I escape her eyes;
whate'er she sees me do, she tries.
Like me, she says she's going to be
that little girl who follows me.
I must remember as I go
through summer sun and winter snow,
I'm molding for the years to be
that little girl who follows me."
Author Unknown



Go Pack Go

Our big kids (Patrick 21, Matthew 19, and Emma 14) are at the Packers game. Their dear,thoughtful, devoted, budget-busting (his words) father really wanted them to go...so we got on line on Monday morning and waited for four and a half hours and purchased the hard to get playoff tickets!
My husband has very fond memories of going to Packer games...a life time of memories. His love of the Packers has been passed down and this common bond will never be broken.

So...Go Pack Go....beat the....who are they playing, honey...oh yes....Seattle....beat the Seahawks!!!

The Quiet Life will not be very quiet from 12:00-3:15 today. I think dear hubby thinks the Packers can hear him...if he yells really loud and often.


Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace....(grin)

Donna

Hey! How about that! Comments and a few links...

I'd like to thank all of the little people :o)
My Help Desk Manager of a husband and a co-worker of his, made this all possible.
On my own....I was going nowhere....fast!
So a big hug to hubby and thank you to B.

I am delighted to have received a comment! WooHoo! All the way from Sweden!
Along with living a quiet life....I am easily amused :o)

Katie Gracie Loves Her Mommy

After 22 years of parenting I have a child who unabashedly adores me.
It surprises and humbles me. Our other children love me...no doubt....but they are less demonstrative.
Katie Gracie (4) is obvious.

Yesterday while we were swinging and singing to Shania Twain (yep, you heard right) I noticed that every time I shoved my sleeves up...she did too.
Then she told me that when she is a mommy and she has a baby she will name her 'Donna'.
This is especially touching to me because I have never like my name...but to her it is lovely.

She sees the best in me....I do not. I am not deserving of her adoration. But I do feel more keenly the responsibility I have to model well for her.
"Create in me a clean heart O God"

Ah, Motherhood. My calling, my life....my joy.


Neiman Marcus Cookie Recipe

These are wonderful cookies. I can not make Toll House Cookies. I have tried a hundred times and they melt and burn. Last month I remembered how delicious these cookies were and searched for them on the internet. (We used to buy them at the Neiman Marcus in Chicago) I have made them four times and am thrilled with the result! Everyone likes them and they bake up very well.

One more thing...there is an Urban legend about this recipe. There is a story that a woman wanted to buy the recipe from NM and the clerk told her it would be two-fifty. So the woman said, great, I'll take it. Later that month when the bill came, the woman was charged $250.00.
This is not true....NM gives the recipe away absolutely free on their website to refute this old story.

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1-3/4 cups flour
1-1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder, slightly crushed (I use 1 teaspoon of instant coffee instead)
8 ounces chocolate chips (I use less)

Directions

1. Cream the butter with the sugars until fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract.
3. Combine the dry ingredients and beat into the butter mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips.
4. Drop by large spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes.
10 to 12 minutes for a crispier cookie. Makes 12 to 15 large cookies.

There you have it :o) Espresso powder...who would've thunk it?
Yum.

It takes courage to knit!

As I was knitting my littlest child her Christmas stocking I realized that knitting takes courage. Following along with the pattern and having no idea why you are doing what you are doing is quite scary. You see when you get to the heel....(for the first time) you have to start doing odd knitting things....Slowly you proceed...Trusting and following the pattern...and then... Out come the double pointed needles. Yikes.
But carefully and slowly the stocking is finished.

So far so good.

Now into the washing machine to felt the huge green stocking. The first time around is thrilling. Yes, the highlight of my day. The stocking felts up beautifully.

Not super hard really....It just takes courage to trust!

****So here is my next knitting project. Felting is fun!

http://boogaj.typepad.com/knitting/free_pattern_kureyon_felted_bag.html

I was even able to find the exact yarn on the internet;

http://store.purlsoho.com/purl/products/yarndetail/53

Isn't that pretty! I await the yarn.

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Quickie movie review...

Something's Gotta Give with Jack and Diane

Loved it!

******************

Today will be a quieter day than usual. Katie and I are home alone.
Resolution Nine....Help Katie make friends.
She asked if we could go back to Chili's Restraunt because she liked the little girl who sat in the booth behind us! Olivia...her new best friend.

I grew up with five sisters and rarely made a phone call to find someone to play with...and we lived in a neighborhood that had many kids at home to play with. Ah the good old days.

Oh...one more neat website...www.knitty.com

Bye for now,
Donna

"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with you hands...."
1 Thessalonians 4:11

Thus the title of my blog. Quiet Life.

I enjoy reading many blogs (and when I figure out how to link things, I will start linking away) and figured I might as well try to write my own. I wonder if bloggers pre-write or just start typing away?

My New Years Goals

1. Start Titus 2 Bible Study
2. Lose 30 lbs by July
3. Read The Well Educated Mind
4. Talk Less
5. Listen Well
6. Mail Birthday Cards/Gifts on time.
7. Stop Complaining
8. Memorize twelve Bible verses. (Now that is not too much to ask!)

That was fun...hum...no homeschooling goals...I guess that just comes pretty naturally after 10 years.
Not an area I struggle with...I'm just not going to learn Algebra that's all...we will work around it :o)

Dona Nobis Pacem (Grant To Us Peace)
This is a beautiful Folk Song sung in a round....have you sung it? Perhaps one day I will learn how to put the music up on this site. That would be cool!

Happy 2004!
Our little Katie will always be the same age as the year...she just turned four. Lucky her!

Donna

testing quiet life blog