How Do You Roll?

. .... ... ... .. .... ... .. .... .... .. ... ... ... ... .. .. .. 

Happy Monday!  The last day of March... Will it head out like a lamb?  We'll see how the day turns out, I suppose.

We had SOOOO much rain (and flooding!) over the weekend, in our local area, and today the sun is trying it's hardest to stay out.  It probably will.. It also sounds like it's to warm up and be a bit calmer all around today!  Though, I'm personally not so sure.  It's still a bit windy out there..

The laundry is in full swing, the kitchen cleaned up (from yesterday's busy day!) and dinner plans are in the works..

Today, I wanted to share a little something with you.  Something we used, yesterday, to help illustrate our Week 8 lesson in the FPU (Financial Peace University) Class, my husband and I are coordinating.  It's hard to believe we're at the end of this.  Next Sunday will be our final session.  It's has been (honestly!) the neatest time, of our lives!, doing this class with folks; walking it through with them. It's been life-changing, to say the least.  For them and for us...I do believe.

And while I'm not going to elaborate on what the actual class lesson was about per say; however, I do want to share this illustration as a generalization. Because this could apply to any area of our lives.

Thank you for following along..

***

How do you Roll?

So often – if this roll of tape represents our life – we feel we are in a rush to make changes and make things come about sooner than expected; sooner than necessary.  We might not always realize we’re doing this.

We begin to do things (I begin pulling tape), expect things, wish for things, anticipate…make plans…make changes...all the while things are getting out of hand…even if its’ just the emotions.

We wish for a different outcome/income.  We NEED another or a different of this or that.  Based on today’s lesson…we might think we NEED a new & bigger house/piece of land, etc.! Like, as in if it should have happened yesterday! All because we’re impatient and we want our future to be our now.

I can relate to this!

Today’s lesson encouraged us to Be PATIENT!
To SLOW.  Slow down and realize our reality.

Appreciating our story – as it is!  Not like we would want it to be.

What happens all too quickly is that before we know it... our lives are now a sticky mess.  (I gather up the sticky wad of unrolled tape in my hand) We find it’s too late to go back.  At least, in a way that appears to have some semblance to what it once was – back before this ALL began!  (by now there should be piles of tape!)

See this tangled mess?  It’s a mess...  It can’t be undone.  Pun fully intended… what a sticky situation you find yourself in.  There is no way this roll of tape can be rolled back - as nicely as it first started.  There is no way you can go back either...and truly undo any and all mistakes one might have made.

It’s time – at this point – TODAY!, if you will; draw a line in the sand, the sand of our emotions, and to step over it.  To make this final point… we’ll rip this tape off right here and go forward from here on out... slow and sure.

How do you roll?  How will you roll, from here on out?

That is the question.  That is our take-away!

***

I first heard this illustration, used years ago, in a sermon, to illustrate something.- something of which I can't remember now, exactly.  The illustration though, it obviously stuck with me... because I honestly do think of it often - in terms of my own life.  Times when I want to get ahead of the game.  Go against God's Will for my life, etc.

It's often made pause and consider the question.  Really?  How far do think I can control my own doings; the timing of everything for my life?

Everything is in God's Sovereign control.  E.V.E.R.Y. single. T.H.I.N.G!

"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips it's turn"

. .... ... .. .. ... .... .... ..... .. .... .. ... .. ... ... ... .

Great quote here by, Hal Borland

No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.

Rest assured! How true this is!
Even though the calender says its officially Spring but the snowflakes still fly one day and the temps dip another, it doesn't always feel that way, does it?

This all happened last week, where we still had some serious snow mounds randomly piled here and there throughout our yard but the temps were warm enough to venture outdoors and get some spring-like fresh air into the lungs.  And, oh we needed that.

Behold!  I found my two daughter's "cheerfully" removing the snow piles one scoop (and pan) at a time off into the flower garden... just because!

Here's left to wonder...

If I would have told them to go out there and physically remove those snow piles...?  Would they have?
The sun could have easily taken care of that for them..

I smile.

I wish I had a picture of the two of them struggling together to walk this pan, multiple times, across the yard.
Oh, such hard work...
Completely unnecessary, but oh what fun!

***
Today, every last bit of snow is gone and is instead being replaced by raindrops!
Lots of them!

I am reminded of the encouraging verses found Isaiah 55, that read.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, 
and do not return to it without watering the earth 
and making it bud and flourish, 
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 
so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
 it will not return to me empty, 
but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

You will go out in joy
and be lead forth in peace;
the mountains and the hills will burst
into song before you, 
and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree, 
and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.

This will be for the Lord's renown..

***
May you have a wonderful weekend - filled with the Promises of God!
Spring is one of them.

Yes, Lord!

Taco Seasoning & more

. ... ... ... .... .. ..... .. ... ..... ... .. . .. ... .. .. .. .
I'm sure most of you, reading here, have your own favorite go-to Taco Seasoning.  Am I right?  Well, if not, I hope you do not mind that I'm going to share with you an added-to recipe (meaning I changed up my "original" recipe).  This recipe today is one that I've adapted from two different sources.
One of those sources is my original "go-to" recipe; one that I shared a different time...HERE!
 Maybe you'll give this *new one* a try and never go back to either yours or a store-brand seasoning again. In fact, I think you'll thank me..
 I don't know.

So as I've alluded, I recently I found a second homemade recipe that sounded good and I wanted to give it a try.  But when I went to pull all of the ingredients I realized I didn't have enough of everything, on hand, that it called for.  So I took a little from my "old" recipe and some ingredients  from this "new one" and made up a whole New Other Recipe.
I like it so much better - that's why I'm sharing it with you today.

Bevy's Taco Seasoning
1/4 cup instant minced onion
3 T. chili powder
2 T. ground cumin
1 T. salt
1 T. garlic salt
1 T. paprika
1 T. crushed hot red pepper flakes
1 T. dried, minced garlic
1 T. cornstarch
1 T. granulated sugar
2 tsp. oregano, crushed fine


Combine and mix all ingredients.  Divide into equal portions and place in small envelopes or wrap.  Or, keep in jar like I have here.

Use 1-2 T. of seasoning mix per pound of meat (per taste).  You can add 1 T. of ketchup and 1/2 cup water to mix to bring to simmer.  Cook uncovered until water has evaporated.

**Tonight's dinner menu may or may not include the use of this Taco Seasoning.  I'm still drumming up a menu in my mind. :)  I'm thinking either Soft Tacos with Chicken & Black Beans or Deep Dish Taco Squares (made with chicken, instead of beef.)

***
And, now for a couple of miscellaneous items:

Let's start with Scrapple.

So it sounds like a couple of you, my dear readers, were lost on what I was talking about when I mentioned Scrapple yesterday.  I'm contemplating doing a post on it myself but in the meantime I'm going to forward you a link to another blog who's family is really, really serious - year after year - in their butchering process.
Take a look at this:  HOME JOYS :: Hog Butchering
These folks have it down.
Many hands make light work!
~~~
Something else is *NEW* on my blog.
I'm not sure if you noticed it or not...
By recent request, I've added the feature to receive my blog posts straight into your inbox.
Just sign up by entering your email address, on my sidebar, there on the left.

As usual, thanks for reading!
I greatly appreciate it.

A Daybook in March

.. ... ... .... .. ... .... .... .... ... ... .. ... .. .. .. ... . .. .. ... .. ... .. ... ..

FOR TODAY ~ the 4th Monday of the month!

Outside my window... the sun is shining beautiful, this morning. But the temps are dropping...  Three guesses what is in the forecast for tomorrow??  Yup!  Sn-NO!-ow, but only 1-2" and it'll be outta here.. ;)

I am thankful...for the healing that has since come to our home, from over the past week.  What a week, last week was.  I think it hit everybody, except for me. I was the least affected.  I may have had a twinge of it.. however, this bug had hit our son. BAD!

Every hour, consistent in time, this kid threw up... and this went on all Friday night long.  We had been up with him at least twice, by this point, when while as my husband and I crawled back into bed for the third time! I whispered in the dark...as we held one another.  I said to my husband, "Thank you, Scott! Thank you, for helping me! You know, this.  This is what makes the "lovemaking" go on and on in our marriage.. This is what solidifies our making of that love, between us, to the now of helping one another now - in sickness and in health , etc.... this is what really is the making and keeping of our union and what its all about.."  He agreed..and we fell off asleep for another hour until Caleb called out again, and this continued on, and again, and again..
The next morning - Jayne headed for round two..

This photo was taken sometime on Saturday.  Thankfully Caleb and everyone else is feeling way better..by this morning.

We have a *NEW* week ahead of us..praise the Lord!!

In the kitchen...a Buttermilk Coffee Cake (with chopped apples and pecans). It goes along perfectly with a cup of hot coffee, this morning.  And, why wouldn't it?
A Ham Dinner is on the menu for dinner, tonight!

I am wearing... I am wearing a brown linen Sarah skirt, this morning...and a black Tee!  (of course..)

I am creating...I'm almost done with this one "custom" bag order - and I can't wait to tell you the story that goes a long with this bag... hang in there!  It'll come.
Oh, and I got another "custom" bag request as of yesterday..

I am going... to go by Dunkin Donuts and get me a FREE Iced Coffee, today (for a limited time!).  Although, let me tell you.  I did that last week, too, and I think by Thursday that  20oz. was still in the fridge - unfinished.  I guess, I should say "I THINK, I am going.." - maybe I don't really need to go there after all, if I can't finish them..  That's probably quite okay..

I am wondering...and I wonder no more!  There is green pushing through the ground..  We'll be having daffodils before too long...

I am reading...not much of anything *new* this month.  Finishing up the Unglued book, probably this week, and I still have a few other books still lingering around on the nightstand...ones I've share with you previously.. I realize I'm a slow reader.  But, that's okay.  I only read at bedtime anyway.  :)

I am hoping... to receive a few things via snail mail, this week!  I was a recent winner to two different giveaways!  How exciting!!

I am looking forward to...  Okay!  so while my husband and I know who is moving next door, our kids do not. At least, not yet.  It's my brother; one of their favorite uncles.  So - yesterday we got talking about "who just might the new neighbors be"..?   Here is Aubrey's concern: "I hope they're not mean!"  to which I replied, even if they are "we still need to be nice to them".  Caleb pipes up.  "I wonder if they'll know God?" - to which I replied... We'll have to see but of course, if they don't we'll be sure to tell them who Jesus is.."
So, when I told my bro about this (in hushed whispers, at church) he was beside himself in awe of how much these kids have "spiritual concerns and context on their hearts and minds"...

I am learning..as hard as parenting can be at times... what really matters, the things of the LORD!, are really sticking.  Faithful, consistent teaching; living & leading by example is HUGE!!!!!!!!!  And it's hard..
I really appreciate the captive audience I have, we have as parents, at bedtime when we read Scripture, share stories and pray together..
There is something about that happening right at bedtime that one can fall asleep in peace - knowing the LORD is by our side...

Around the house... some Spring Cleaning! is taking place..
As well.  We have been ridding a lot of mice/rodents out of our home.  And Oh!  I have quite a few stories I could share.  And, so could our little Jayne.  She loves it that "Daddy comes to the rescue and will slay the dragon" for her, every. single. time.  "Daddy hit it hard, hard, hard..."she'll say.   He used a wooden mallet type thingy... oh, yes he did!  Hey - if they're not going to take to the traps and they instead choose to just meander around the dining room, s.l.o.w.l.y.  Enough that they can be "taken out" thatta way... then why not?
When they're out of their territory and in mine!  I don't like it..


I am pondering... every night, our little ones will ask us for a story of when we were a kid!  Almost every time I think of this..
As a youngster, I would get reprimanded for calling other children - kids!  My mom would say.  They are children.  NOT baby goats..
Am I the only one that ever happened to?  I still call my kids, kids... but I do think about it.  Why??

A favorite quote for today... I recently received  a little perpetual calendar, as a gift (from Connie S. thank you!); by Ann Voskamp... ohh, there are some great quotes in there.  I have it tucked up on my kitchen windowsill at the moment where I have plenty of time to read and reread the selected piece for the day.  Here is one that continues to grab my attention: ( I have to flip back to read and reread..)
"I have lived pain and my life can tell:  I only deepen the wound of the world when I neglect to give thanks for early light dappled through leaves and the heavy perfume of peonies in June and the song of crickets on summer humid nights and the rivers that run and the stars that rise and the rain that falls and all the good gifts that a good God gives." ~ Ann Voskamp

One of my favorite things...having now broken the ice, one of my favorite things to do right now is to talk to Kaitlin - on the phone.  And, I'm so not a phone person... at all!  She says, she has plans to change that fact about me..  She just may be right!

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Scott is having surgery this week... a periodontal surgery.  He'll be home for a couple of days; recovering - possibly working from home, those days!  There is also a Scouts meeting; a Bible Club meeting (for Caleb) and the making of  Scrapple - planned for Saturday!

A peek into my day...



***
Following with Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook

Friday's Finds :: The 5 Q's

. ..... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... ... .... ... ... ... .. ... ..

Oh, this was fun!  Here is something that happened a couple of weeks ago now - which we'll still count, for today, as our Friday's Finds! 

Thanks for reading along..

Aubrey's class, in Preschool, is currently sharing in the honor of each student taking Curious George home with them for a couple of days at a time.  Aubrey's turn was a couple of weeks ago, as I mentioned, and I suppose this was just something fun to do to help break up the monotony of school during the winter season, etc.

While George was with us we were asked to keep a journal entry of the time George spent in our home and all of our activities.. and upon "his return to school"... he needed to have along 5 things that began with the letter "Q", so that lil Miss Aubrey could share them with her class.  As well. Aubrey needed to supply snack for her entire class!  So, as you and I can imagine, there have been a lot of bananas and monkey themed snacks that have been brought into school as part of this fun little project. - so Aubrey has said..

Hmmm... 5 things?  That start with "Q"..?

It didn't take long to come up with the five items of our choice.

Aubrey and I (actually all of our little family) thought about it together, for awhile, and here is what we came up with:

Quart Bag 

Quarter

Q-tip

Question!  (Aubrey cut out the shape of a HUGE question mark and we wrote out a question on it - something that George may have asked the kids about school..you know?!? Only because the guy is so curious.  He's always asking questions..)

and, our favorite, a...

Quilt  Patch (which this included... actual quilting stitches with quilting thread, and a quilting needle - not just any size or kind, etc.)

Something that has come out of this is an introduction to sewing for Aubrey.  She has since been enjoying coming into my sewing room with me and stitching away on a few projects here and there...

Her ideas are marvelous and endless..and keep me in a 

Quandary (to say the least)!  I couldn't resist... I love this word!  Quandary..

not that I love being in one. :)

***
Have a Blessed Weekend! 

In this case... {with Update!}

. .... .... .. ... .. .... .. . .. ... .. ... .. ... .. ...... .. . .. 

When storms come, leave both the front and back doors open. Don't allow misfortune to find a home. ~ unknown

Lovely quote, and a good reminder, for today!

***
In this case... for today...our misfortune; it's sickness!  Poor Jayne... She caught a bug overnight, probably the same one that Aubrey had earlier in the week. But, the sun is shining and its warmer out there this morning.  Guess what?  There just might be some serious laundry on the line for the first time this year, after all!!  Sure there might be some mud... but who cares.

Let the birds sing, long and loud!  It's the first day of Spring!

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers - today!  There greatly appreciated..

***
UPDATED to add: (@ approx. 3:30pm)

Oh, Spring's First Day!  Thank you.  Thank you for arriving.. finally!  The wash I hung out today, for the first, came back indoors with the most delightful scent of the freshest air one could  fathom.  It's been awhile. I was worried, from time to time, because the sun that shone would come and go - and those grayer clouds would threaten, but then they'd move on and so with just the right amount of whip in your wind - everything dried so beautifully.
As well, when my girls and I would poke our noses outdoors for a moment or two, here and there, it would lift our spirits and well, today was a happy day...after all.

As a matter of fact, my baby is feeling jest fine.

Though, she could a nap...and well, we all could!  Couldn't we?

A warm & lovely "hello" from our home to yours!

 ... .... ... . ... . .... . . .. ... ... .... .... ... .... .. . 

Aubrey's Artwork

Do you know the Love of God, this morning?  There is that.  And then there is this well-known, well-loved hymn. I don't know if your familiar with the lyrics of this dear hymn... but, this is one that I've been pondering for some time now - again.  Then when I recently came across a bit of the hymn's history in a small devotional - I knew I wanted to share it with you, again, today.  Just because it's been so fresh and so convicting on my heart.  How much do I really comprehend the Love of God?  How great is it, really?

The Love Of God

Take this third stanza and refrain, for instance..

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.

refrain
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints’ and angels’ song.

***
I hope and trust you'll take a few moments of your day to sit and ponder this, as well.

And, as for Aubrey's Artwork...?
I looked down at my feet on day - while walking across our front porch - and it was like,
"Oh, Hello!" and so I thought we would share this lovely piece with you all, today.

These sporadic, warmer days - here and there - are making us really "think Spring!" and if they don't soon appear on the earth - we'll create them on the concrete.  :)

Blessings to each one today!

Stay At Home!

. ... .. .... ... ... .. ... ... .... .... ... ... ..... .. ... .. ..

It was a lovely morning...and a lovely visit.

I was out running a few errands and en-route to pick up my five year old from school when I decided my two year old and I had enough time to stop in at a friends house; to say "hello" and give her a small gift.  This Mama-friend is a beautiful soul.  I wasn't sure that she was home, as I didn't see a vehicle, in the drive, but when I knocked at the door - it opened in an instant.  With great enthusiasm she ushered me indoors and begged me to stay.  "Stay, for as long as you can, can you?!"  I smiled..

She was wearing her apron and her house smelled of home.  Applesauce?  Yumm!  I wasn't sure how long I could stay - due to my own schedule nor how long my baby girl would allow... but I knew one thing.  I didn't want to leave.

You have to understand one thing about me.  I'm a homebody.  I don't do this spur-of-the-moment stuff like this.  Very often.  At all.  I wish I did..

So, while at this dear friend's home... we chatted a lot and caught up, as it had been awhile since we last saw one another.

She said something to me, that early afternoon, that warmed me straight to my toes.

"Bev", she said, "please, don't take this the wrong way... but I'm a homebody, too!  When I do get out - and sometimes while out and around, I'll go by your home on purpose, just to see if I'm right.  You're always, ALWAYS home! and I love that about you."

That was probably  one of the most encouraging things I've ever heard said, about me.  I'm serious.  For someone else, another mama, a friend, to say she appreciates me being a stay-at-home mom (too!) because that is a desire of her own heart and  it encourages her where she is at in her life, as well.  (sigh!- a good, contented sigh)

While that is my life.. and I do love it!  I don't know that I have ever thought about it in that way.  That me being a stay-at-home mom is a blessing to someone else (outside of my own four walls) that they should be encouraged and content in their own being a stay-at-home mom.

Wow!
What a breath of fresh air.
***
{Let us}encourage one another, and build each other up. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Winds of Change

... .... ... . ... .. ... .... .. .. .. ... ... .... .... .. .. .

There was an old 

weather-vane

high on a shed,

The wind came a courting

and turned his head;

And all it could utter for 

lack of a mouth

Was -- East, and West,

and North and South. 

                                   ~ unknown

***

Winds of Change!
They come and come and come.  This way and that..
I don't know always know how I feel about it.

But. One thing I know...
My feet are sure.
Solid.
On the Rock of my Salvation.

There is really something quite settling about that feeling...
Quite Settling.
I trust you can know this peace as well, my friend!

Blessings to you and yours, this weekend!

***
See you Monday?

Let Truth Drive The Train {& Winner!}

. ... .... ... .. ... .. .... .... .. .. ... .. .... .. .. . ...

Oh, I hope I never forget this!

Recently, I was in a small group discussion.  We were talking how the power of words can leave an impact on us for the good or the bad.  We talked about our earliest memories of those words...

And how this applies I can't quite recall?  But one gal spoke up..
She shared how a friend of hers, father, would remind them as girls, "In this life, you're going to have feelings and emotions.  Those things are real. Yes!
 But remember this one thing; Let Truth Drive The Train."
This is probably my newest, most favorite quote, right now.

As ladies, in this conversation, we unpacked this quote a bit  further.  Let Truth Drive The Train.
 How many times do we allow something else - that which is not yet fully known - to become truth and we follow that...when truth is already present, and rightly in place?
Can we really?

How many times do we jump track, or worse yet, ignore "truth" and rush forward, becoming the crazy, runaway train?

Friend, TRUTH is a constant!
Keeping that in the forefront of my mind..I can rest assured that the ebb and flow, of the train, of life, will keep itself on track.  Hopefully, this was an encouragement to you - as it was to me!

 I AM The Way, THE TRUTH, and The Life...
~  the words of Jesus, from John 14:6

***
The Winner of the Mugs & Muffins - Giveaway is:

Tracy C.

Congratulations, Tracy!
I'll be getting this Spring Gift out to you right away!
***

Blessings on your day...to each one of you, my friends.
Thank you for reading.

Mugs & Muffins :: Scone Recipe :: (think Spring!) Giveaway! (NOW CLOSED!)

. ... .. .... .. ... ... .... .... ... ... . .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .. 

Welcome to the 2014 version of Mugs &Muffins!

Some of our newest friends, here, may be wondering  just what in the world is Mugs & Muffins, and what does it all entail?  Thank you for curiosity...I hope to settle that for you, today!

I've been doing this meme for a couple of years now.  Almost monthly, as a matter of fact.  Featuring a muffin/breakfasty type item (recipe!), I'll feature a guest writer/speaker and host a GIVEAWAY!  - something that ties in to the theme for the day/topic or not..
 Usually, this "event" takes place on the 2nd Monday of every month...sometimes the 3rd Monday - however it best works out.

This year...for 2014... I decided to spread it out a bit.  I thought maybe I would have it to go once every three months - hence, I'm talking about this now again in March.
One of the dilemma's I've been having, though, is that I've been running out of folks who are willing and interested in being in the spotlight, so to speak; ones who are willfully ready to share their heart in a guest post... also, those who are willing to sponsor or donate towards the Giveaway.  I don't mind if you are simply a reader and don't have your own blog.  One can always share as an Anonymous author if that would make you feel more comfortable.  But, by letting me know you are interested, it would bring further exposure to your blog or etsy shop or what-have-you, as I'm always sure to link back to the person or site... that is, if you should have an online presence.  This is meant to be encouraging..
If this is you and you're reading this and would like to "help change this fact " because you have something you would like to share or say... contact me and we'll talk.  I would love to have "more guests" involved...of course!

But the main goal of Mugs & Muffins is for community, and online fellowship!  I feel that I want this to be a time - a special time - to really share and interact. Lots of interaction!! I've always wanted it to be this way.  You can read more about how Mugs & Muffins got started, for me, HERE.  As well, feel free to browse any of the other M&M posts, from the past, to see what has been featured.  They have always been (at least I feel so) well received and it's always been VERY encouraging to read all the comments that ensue.  So - I hope to get back into this with a zeal...

And, I hope your as excited as I am.  Please tell me you are!
***
So, since this is sort of a re-introductory sort of day...
I'm going to (virtually) pass around this plate of Chocolate Chip Scones which I mentioned  back on Friday!  Perhaps tempted you with...

These are meant to be served warm... so, I'll wait for you to take a few seconds to nuke one up, just for a couple of seconds. :)  They really are so, so yummy!  And all the more better if you add nuts.  Pecans are fabulous in these.  I hope you don't mind.  I'll share the complete recipe in just a bit..

Grab yourself a cup of coffee and or tea and settle in.

 I just have a short story to share with you today. No guest speaker!  Just something I found among the pages of the Heart Throbs book (circa, 1905) that I shared with you a couple of weeks ago.

And then, lets get right into the Giveaway!

What I want to share with you today is a little "selected piece" originally found in the Kansas City World.  It is entitled, Pass On The Praise.  This is an old, old piece. Of it's writing style, you may find it to read a bit outdated... but keep reading.  It couldn't be more convicting, encouraging nor true!  Here we go!
***
PASS ON THE PRAISE

"You are a great little wife, and I don't know what I would do without you."  And as he spoke he put his arms about her and kissed her, and she forgot all the care in that moment.  And, forgetting it all, she sang as she washed the dishes, and sang as she made the beds, and the song was heard next door, and a woman there caught the refrain and sang also, and two homes were happier because he had told her that sweet old story - the story of the love of a husband for a wife.
As she sang, the butcher boy who called for the order heard it and went out whistling on his journey, and the world heard the whistle, and one man hearing it thought, "Here is a lad who loves his work, a lad happy and contented."
And, because she sang her heart mellowed, and as she swept about the back door the cool air kissed her on each cheek, and she thought of a poor old woman she knew, and a little basket went over to that home with  a quarter for a crate or two of wood.
So, because he kissed her and praised her, the song came and the influence went out and out.
Pass on the praise.
A word and you make a rift in the cloud, a smile and you may create a resolve, a grasp of the hand and you may repossess a soul from hell.
Pass on the praise.
Does your clerk do well?
Pass on the praise.
Tell him that you are pleased, and if he is a good clerk he will appreciate it more than a raise.  A good clerk does not work for salary alone.
Teacher, if the child is good, tell him about it; if he is better, tell him again.  Thus you see good, better, best.
Pass on the praise now.  Pass it on in the home.
Don't go to the grave and call "Mother."  Don't plead, "Hear me, Mother; you were a kind mother; you were a good mother, and smoothed away many a rugged path for me."
Those ears cannot hear that glad admission.  Those eyes cannot see the light of earnestness in yours.  Those hand may not return the embrace you now wish to give.
Why call so late?
Pass on the praise, today.

***

I don't know about you.  But, this really blessed me as I read these lines.  I hope and pray that this idea of passing on the praise will hold fast; riveting  my heart and be words that I would share.  Words of continual praise and encouragement.

Proverbs 3:27-28 encourages...

Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.  Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"-- when you now have it with you.

Oh, this is such a passion of mine.  This idea of sharing with someone right away when they mean something to me.  Whether it would be a kind word, a note, a thank you!, and hug...etc.  This is something I want to be good at; as well, it is something to continue to grow in. Because I'm neither good at it nor consistent.   

How about you?  Is this area you need to grow in as well?  Who could you encourage today?  Think of one person... and pass on the praise, today!  On the other hand,  how have you been recently encouraged?  Tell us what that meant to you; how did it make you feel?

***
:: GIVEAWAY::
We're thinking Spring!  And, I really, really tried to make this giveaway "reflect" the story that I shared with you, today.

This is our small little Giveaway today!

The contents include a packet of "singing birds" note cards, recipe cards and a cookie cutter, a coordinating stripped tea towel, a neat little dusting cloth, and a citrus & sage scented room freshener.

** To enter the giveaway...know that each comment will allow you one entry.  Facebook included! As well, if you're new here and would like to sign up to follow - that will earn you another entry.  Just let me know with a separate comment that you have done so!  The same applies, if you have chosen to follow this blog since the New Year began!!
Please engage in conversation that would reflect the short story shared and by answering the prompts that I gave at the end.  Please be encouraging and mindful of others..

***

:: RECIPE::

Special Dark Chocolate Chip Scones
3 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 T. baking powder
2 cups dark Chocolate, chocolate chips (I prefer to use semi-sweet)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (opt.)
1/4 tsp. salt
2 cups whipping cream (yes!!, this is right..)
2 T.butter

granulated sugar
powdered sugar

Heat oven to 375*.  Lightly grease 2 baking sheets.
Stir together flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder and salt in large bowl.  Stir in chocolate chips and those nuts, if desired.
Stir whipping cream into flour mixture, stirring just until ingredients are moistened.  Turn mixture out onto lightly floured surface.  Knead gently until soft dough forms (about 2 minutes).  Divide dough into 3-6 equal balls.  I choose 6.  (it made them smaller..)  One ball at a time, flatten into a 6" circle; cut into 8 triangles.  Transfer triangles to prepared baking sheets, spacing 2" apart.  Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with additional granulated sugar.
Bake at 375* for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.  Serve warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar, if desired.

***
Thank you so, so much for reading here today!  In advance, I thank you for your thoughts and comments below.

This GIVEAWAY will end on Wednesday at 10:00 pm, EST!  
The winner will be announced sometime on Thursday!
Blessings to you and yours..

Friday's Finds :: A New for Me Recipe

.. ... ... ... .... ... .. .... .. .... .. ... .. ... .. .. . .

And, now a new favorite!

Can you believe I've never made Scones before?  I'm thrilled with this new and yummy find.

These were great to share with our "old" neighbors as they've recently moved into their "new" home!

Extending hospitality!!

***

Lord Willing!  I plan to share the recipe with you on Monday - when I bring to you our first for the year - 

Mugs and Muffins.

You don't know what that is?  Well...

I hope you'll be back, to join me then., where I'll spend a few minutes getting you acquainted...or re-acclimated.  Whichever the case may be..

***

Right now I'm "teen and preteen sitting" for four young friends of our family...

Looking forward to our Monthly Grocery Shop tomorrow and a few Scout activities for my son!

Financial Peace Class will resume on Sunday afternoon..

We've got a busy couple of days here... and hopefully some warmer temps!

Praying for a peace-in-the-soul 

sort of weekend!  Both for you and for me..

Bags by Bevy :: Thinking of...

. ... .. ... .. ... .... .... . ... .. .... .... .. .. .. . . .. . 

The promise of Spring!  Meadow Green style...

Yes, thinking of Spring, today, with this large, over-the-shoulder, single strap tote (Messenger Bag!).  This is a RESERVED BAG for a lady named Michelle K.  I consider it a SOLD bag.  But, I thought I would share it with you anyway...

:: Meadow Green ::

"SOLD"

Messenger type bag!

***

Next, I'm thinking of my Mother-in-Law!  She asked me to make her a Tea Wallet for two tea bags..

So...this one will be gifted out to her!

Because you are loved - Susie Mom!!  I know it's been a rough winter on you... I wish you a healthier Spring!

For more of the same you can visit my etsy shop...
***
Just wanted to show you (be accountable!) to the sewing projects I say I'm working on.. :)

Here is one more!  I don't remember sharing this one with you.. forgive me if I have.

Thinking of you today, as well, Kate.  To explain.  This skirt was gifted -the other week - to an older gal-friend of my daughter Aubrey.  Aubrey picked the fabric because she knew that Kate loves "Red".

We named it "Daisy Love"..

Can you tell we are getting ready for Spring?  I mean, really, really ready...
**
Hope you got to enjoy some warmer weather today or at least some sunshine!  I know we did!  I don't know how many robins we saw today...

The promise is here, for sure!

That (debt and donut) Snowball

. .... .. .. .... .. .... ... ..... .. .. ... ..... .. .... .. ... .

As you know our local area was to get hit with a pretty big snowfall, Sunday night into Monday. Well, I'm sure folks not too far from us did get some pretty good snow... but not here.  Secretly, I'm kinda glad for the Epic Fail.  Since it only came, to our local area, as a dusting... let's talk about donuts instead.

Today is Fasnacht Day!

So in honor of today we're going to talk about (donut) snowballs...and debt!

My husband and I are in the midst of leading/coordinating a 9-week course through (Dave Ramsey) - Financial Peace University.  I have not talked about this class a whole lot and that's okay... however, just to let you know, the course is going GREAT! and so are the (47, or so)  folks who have chosen to walk a course to change their future and family tree!!  FOREVER!!  It's been a real pleasure walking with them.

Each week, and I can't help myself, we have decided to incorporate a little extra thing that will help to keep the class "light and fun".  Sending our folks home with a little something to help it make sense cents, so to speak. lol!

So - this past Sunday - with the impending snowstorm, plus the fact that our lesson was on Dumping Debt...I just had to get my hands on some little round powdered donut holes.  Can we say - Snowballs!

The class is video streamed and Dave Ramsey is actually doing the teaching for the course.  This week's lesson spoke in great detail about the need to dump debt and how to get the (debt) snowball rolling...
with gazelle intensity!  (You'll need to take the course, to fully know what we're talking about.. how do you get gazelle and snowballs out of the same lesson?)

I guess you could say the above three photos are self-explanatory.  And while there were no actual throwing of snowballs involved,  it (the idea!) was as a SURE hit!

Dunk that debt!

It certainly left a flurry of excitement (ha!)... getting folks to think about eating that donut right there on the spot.  Or, were they going to leave it on the shelf to inspire them.  Watching the "dough" grow... as the debt snowball also took off eliminating debt from their lives..

I don't know.. I try!

Maybe too hard to play on words and get people to think.  In the meantime we're having some fun times with this class and it's exciting to see changes already taking place in many, many hearts throughout the room.

If you think of my husband and I - pray for us.  Sunday afternoons is when we're walking this road..

Hello March!

. .... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .. ... .. .... .. ... .. ... ... ..

Oh March!

I hope this is true of you.

In like a Lion, 

Out like a Lamb.

One might think so or hope for after reading THIS!

Do you know of any other sayings or rhymes that go for the month of March?

***

Happy Monday to each one of you...
I'd say it's pretty happy around here this morning.  An Epic fail to our weather forecast for our area for the overnight hours into today. We only got a dusting - after the original call was for 12+" of snow. The children still do have a two-hour delay which messes with Mommy's schedule but that is okay.  They're getting their day/hours in.
My husband did take off of work today (last minute) to go butcher two steer...with my Brother in law.
That right there is a story in the making.. if I do say so myself.

I have some sewing and some baking that I would like to accomplish today.  And, it's possible that I'll have a few extra little ones in my home as I "babysit" them...
I'm waiting to find out on that one.
***

You know me and my growing love for poetry.  Well,  I thought this particular poem would be appropriate to share with you today!

Quilt Pattern
Nature sewed the winter through,
Left-overs of gold and blue
From the sky...cerise and red
Stitched with white and silver thread.

Patiently she stitched along
To the north wind's lusty song...
Back and forth her needle flew
While the boist'rous March winds blew.

April dawned... the thing was done!
So she laid it in the sun.
Hills and gardens then were gay
With the patchwork quilt that lay...

Bright and tufted deep with green,
Bordered with a brooklet's sheen...
Summer coverlet of scraps
Garnered from Autumn's leafy wraps!

~ Crystal Hastings, Needlecraft and Home Arts Magazine, March 1927

***

Enjoy your day!