Be The Change You Want To See

Lists of 2012 - #4

2012-01-26T21:52:00.002-07:00

Listography 2012 - #4 - Least Favourite Smells

1. Pickled herring

2. Vomit

3. Diesel fuel or gasoline

4. Sour milk

5. Cigarette smoke

6. Bad breath

7. Decomposing mice (don't ask how I know this!)

8. Stinky tofu (it's available from street vendors on every corner in Taiwan - we'd cross the street to get away from it!)

9. Dead fish along the lake shore

10. Burning garbage

11. Durian fruit, also found in Asia

12. Outhouse on a hot day

The Stethoscope

2012-01-24T20:27:00.002-07:00

This is an amazing video! See if you can guess what the message is :)

Counting Gratitude Gifts

2012-01-24T01:06:00.000-07:00

The third week in January already - and His grace just keeps giving me more than I can imagine. Waking in the morning to know that He created the day, He is in the day with me and He brings the day to an end gives me comfort and brings peace to all that might develop in the day. And my eyes are opened to see more and more!

#3538 - #3573

- surviving -33 degrees Celsius with no problems
- warm winter clothes in layers
- staying inside
- furnace blowing warm air
- hot water

- rocking chair
- reading from my Bible
- seeing the same words - one of His surprises!
- reading a book about being His voice and hands
- sharing

- pizza for supper
- picture outtakes
- conversations
- heeding messages spoken
- supper waiting in the fridge

- thoughts from Ann about a House of Prayer
- moderating weather
- plans changed - for the better
- finishing a project
- red berries hanging on the bush

- glistening brussel sprouts
- birthday gifts
- evergreens silhouetted in the blue winter sky
- celebration of a life well-lived
- folded laundry

- guitar music
- gathered around the supper table
- pumpkin pie with whipped cream
- singing along
- home concert

- His forgiveness every day
- every need supplied
- His presence
- trusting Him
- the promise of eternity with Him

Five on Friday - Linked

2012-01-21T00:40:00.000-07:00

Some things for you to explore online during this cold weather -

1. This post from Momastery is a great read about relationships - and a great reminder. Thanks to K for posting it first on Facebook.

2. Anna Maria Horner has some cool color and fabric ideas on this Play Schedule post. She's an amazing fabric designer.

3. Winter gardening is alive and well in New Brunswick! Thanks to Mel and Tyler who sent us this link to a CBC interview with Chester's Fields Farm. Be sure to watch and be inspired. Bob's brain is churning with more ideas now :)

4. This Apple Pear Salad from the Mennonite Girls Can Cook site is a delicious taste of freshness on a cold winter's day.

5. I love this 20" Little Leaves wall hanging quilt from Quilted Treasures in Minnesota! The blanket stitches and the random leaves scattered on the pieced background are adorable!

(photo from sewdomestic.com)

Lists of 2012 - #3

2012-01-19T17:45:00.002-07:00

Listography 2012 - #3 - Favourite Things to Do When I Am Alone

1. Read in bed

2. Read blogs and search Pinterest

3. Sew

4. Scrapbook

5. Read the Bible

6. Sleep in

7. Bake or cook, especially for others

8. Look through my scrapbooks and photos

9. Read magazines

10. Eat nachos and cheese sauce

11. Take photographs

12. Talk to our children and grandchildren on the phone

From Kelle Hampton

2012-01-18T00:02:00.001-07:00

Almost two years ago I was introduced to Kelle Hampton, just days after precious Nella Cordelia was born to their family. Nella has an extra chromosone which makes her really special. I have learned so much about life, loving children and celebrating difference by reading Kelle's blog and watching her with her little ones. This video with its precious images and beautiful children melts my heart.

Gratitude Gifts

2012-01-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

I decided to join Ann on her Joy Dare this year and so I'm using her prompts this month to look at things differently, to search outside of normal every days and find more of His grace and His love for me. I love how they are making me search and see Him in new ways!

#3503 - 3538

- tiny chickadee, sitting on the window frame, peeking into the garage

- Christmas cards mailed off to loved ones

- dill pickles made with cucumbers from our garden

- ham bone cooking to make broth

- sunshine laying in rows on student desks

- favourite yellow sweatshirt with picture of winter on it

- fresh eggs

- hot water bottles

- the candid observations of grade one students (you look green!)

- 16 hours of sleep, even if somewhat interrupted

- garage enclosed and doors fixed again

- protection against cold, cold temperatures

- reliable vehicles

- first one to drive through the snow

- heater blowing warm air

- reading buddies

- amazing colleagues

- a new addition to Bible study

- meeting with friends again

- quotes to live by

- "Go out and live. And do everything as if doing it for me. Then they will see Me in you." (my paraphrase of a discussion)

- warm clothes for the arena

- playing with littles

- cutting out new sewing projects

- little girls happy to be reading

- reading lists by those I love

- hearing that little movements are being felt

- pizza for supper

- meals without buying groceries

- intense discussions

- how the Bible study message meshed so perfectly with Sunday's sermon

- hearing the call and the answer - "Here I am, Lord!"

- knowing that He loves me even more than I love my children

- online devotional message that shares the same words!

- ABIDING in Him, moment by moment

Right Now

2012-01-14T23:20:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Amanda Soule once again (I tell you she has so much inspiration wrapped up in her head that's shared on her blog, SouleMama!) to capture today.

RIght now, I am...

:: marveling that we have had such a mild winter with hardly any snow. I think that's about to change as the prediction is for -28 degrees C tomorrow night.

:: tired after watching Meadow play two hockey games today.

:: laughing after reading Heather's blog and seeing family pictures from the past 4 years.

:: overwhelmed by nothing right now :)

:: pleasantly surprised to get some Christmas fabric on sale in Drayton Valley.

:: wondering what to make for dinner tomorrow.

:: grateful that we get to enjoy our grandchildren so often.

:: hearing the saw in the garage as Bob fixes the side door after installing new garage door opener earlier this week.

:: going to church tomorrow morning.

:: planning what seeds to order - The Cottage Gardener heirloom seed catalogue arrived yesterday :)

:: digging fresh new sheets and pillowcases on our bed.

:: sewing a couple of little things for someone who has a birthday soon :)

:: listening to the Calgary Flames - Los Angeles Kings NHL hockey game on TV.

:: eating Pistachio - Cranberry - Goat Cheese Red Leaf Lettuce Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

:: saying "Happy Ukrainian New Year" today.

:: inspired to buy a new plant to replace my dying poinsettia (I must have overwatered it because it's lost nearly every leaf it had).

:: happy to be feeling better after getting sick at school on Thursday - the poor grade ones said I looked green so I decided it was time to go home.

:: delighted to have received so many lovely cards, pictures and letters this year.

:: waiting to take down and put away the Christmas decorations - we enjoy them well into January!

:: being able to read is such a pleasure!

(I love the way the highway goes right through this part of the mountain!)

Lists of 2012 - #2

2012-01-12T01:03:00.000-07:00

Listography 2012 - #2 - Things to Do This Winter

1. Sew pyjamas for the grandkids

2. Finish December Daily project

3. Sew a rag quilt - crib size :))

4. Finish painting the kitchen and living room

5. Make another batch of salsa

6. Make several sets of cards to give as gifts

7. Snowshoe often - if we ever get any snow!

8. Do another 30 Bags in 30 Days project in the basement

9. Host book club

10. Cook the last pumpkin

11. Host a card party

12. Print and share Christmas photos

If - - -

2012-01-12T00:26:00.000-07:00

Continuing with thoughts of Christmas:

If you could shop at only one store for Christmas gifts, which store would it be?

Hands down, no question about it - that store would be a bookstore for me! Nearly everyone that I shop for gets a book and some of them get several. This is a little glimpse of the books that I gave to our children and grandchildren this year. I love that everyone can have a book to read in the days immediately after Christmas.

So - do tell! What store must you shop at?

Creating

2012-01-10T23:35:00.000-07:00

Last year I sewed two Christmas banners - and gave them both away! So it was time to make one for our house this year.

I used 15 different patterns and had to cut one piece upside down to make it work! The other side has the trees right side up.

My projects to share with many friends and family members this year were sets of pillowcases. I think I sewed 16 sets - and still have fabric for a few more. Some of them were sewed under pressure - and given away before I could snap a photo! These few pictures give you a peek of what they looked like.

I really loved making - and sharing them!

Gratitude Gifts - Christmas Edition

2012-01-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

It's day #9 of 2012 and I have a grand total of 2 posts up! That's really quite sad but now that the holidays are officially over and it's back to school today, I've resolved to get back into writing mode.

We had such a wonderful time of celebrating, worshiping, visiting, eating, and making memories this Christmas. I simply must post my list of grace gifts.

#3473 - #3503

- that He sent His only Son
- the wonder of that miracle
- carol music reminders of the Gift
- candles burning at Christmas Eve service
- words of Scripture

- being included in celebrations with our dear friends
- Christmas dinners
- beautiful table settings
- visiting and laughing
- gift exchanges

- playing games together
- late nights and late mornings
- new pillow and new kitchen items
- photobooks
- cards and messages

- grandchildren playing outside the window
- help in the kitchen
- Skype
- Christmas ornaments
- our Christmas tree

- Christmas cards and letters
- wrapping presents
- poppycock
- singing together
- bringing a bit of joy to the front door

- lights on houses
- hospitals, doctors and nurses that work through the holidays
- good medicines
- aunts and uncles
- acting out the Nativity story

Lists of 2012 - #1

2012-01-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

Heather organized another listography project - just what I was hoping she'd do!

Listography #1 - Goals for 2012

1. Finish painting the living room, dining room, kitchen and entry way

2. Collect 2011 Lists with photos, into a mini-album

3. Grow a good crop of carrots (didn't happen again last year!)

4. Start seeds earlier in March

5. Make sets of cards to give as gifts

6. Welcome two new grandchildren

7. Celebrate my Dad's 80th birthday

8. Celebrate Bob's Dad's 90th birthday

9. Have guests for dinner at least once a month

10. Spend the best chunk of one entire day with each grandchild by themselves

11. Finish reading the New Testament

12. Sew, sew, sew!!

One Little Word

2012-01-03T00:40:00.000-07:00

It's the second day of a new year, all fresh and empty and poised.
And I'm feeling a little lost and trying to make an absolutely perfect start -
and then I read Ann's words and I'm reminded
that I just need to abide in Him
and all things will be made new every day.

And as I'm thinking and wondering and stretching
to find that one little word that will speak to me each day,
it comes suddenly and with certainty.

ABIDE

Abide in me, He says.

Every day, in every way -
just be with Him,
lean on Him,
rest on Him.
And He will be with me -
and I'm very sure that this is the word He has chosen for me.
A word sent to show me
that He is the one who orders my days,
who sends me grace,
who gives everything,
who is always there.

Abide - I am abiding in Him this year.

(Thanks to my friend, S

who had these beautiful angels

on her Christmas table.)

Happy Last Day of 2011!!

2011-12-31T19:10:00.000-07:00

My last week of December has not been one for blogging! I've been enjoying family, friends, food and visiting - and the computer has been shut off. Sometimes living life is just more important.

Thank you, dear readers, for visiting and for reading about my family, my faith, my passions and my adventures. I hope that we will continue to be friends in 2012!

May your celebrations and memories be filled with joy and happiness!
May you enjoy good health and loved ones in the days ahead!
May God's presence fill your days with light and love!

Happy New Year!

Lists of 2011 - #52

2011-12-31T18:55:00.001-07:00

Listography #52 - Favourite Photos of 2011

The last list of the year! What a great project this has been - I'm looking forward to collecting these lists and saving them in a mini-album. I think they'll be so interesting in the years to come.

Oh, my! Where to start with this last prompt?? It was fun looking back through this year's archives and smiling at so many wonderful memories. Here is our year in review:

January:

Snowshoeing in Fairmount

Huge snowbanks

So much fun to play on

February:

Tobogganing and snowmobiling

Sewing projects

March:

Starting seeds

Gymnastics

Baby lambs

April:

Baby M arrived

Easter egg hunting

May:

Potatoes planted in sacks and first eaten on May 28th

Little helper at the greenhouse

June:

Inside the greenhouse

4 Birthdays

July:

Quadding in the foothills

Picking raspberries in New Brunswick

Little boys on tractors

Little girls on hoodoos

August:

Silaging

Summer skies

September:

Peaches in the Okanagan

Birthday fun

First days of school

Canning and preserving

Checking the grain with Great-Grampa

October:

Fall hikes

Thanksgiving

Tired little boys

Sunrise on the farm

Exciting news

November:

Last tomatoes picked in the greenhouse

Baby M growing up

December:

School assemblies and awards

New homes

Christmas

Family gatherings

It's been an amazing year, full of blessings, fun and great times!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

"Joy to the World,

The Lord has Come!"

Merry Christmas!

Lists of 2011 - #51

2011-12-22T22:32:00.002-07:00

Listography #51 - Best Christmas Gifts

1. our family all gathered together

2. an overnight Christmas day trip to Jasper, just Bob and I

3. a pair of diamond studs

4. my first laptop computer

5. photobooks

6. scrapbooking mini-albums

7. hardwood floors

8. cameras (I've received a few of them over the years)

9. snowshoes

10. books

11. pyjamas

12. a handcrafted necklace with our children's names on it

and from long ago -

13. a green plastic lunch kit with a new hairbrush inside from my Dad when I was in grade two

14. brand new white figure skates

15. a new Christmas dress, sewed by my Mom, every year

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-12-22T22:21:00.000-07:00

In our family, this week in December has a habit of being ultra busy and filled with special events - other than the usual Christmas ones, that is!

Nine years ago Naomi and Jerry were married on December 21st - how in the world can it really be that long ago?!

This year, Darrin and Kelsey just moved into their beautiful new home. I was so happy to be able to go and help a bit - and stay overnight too! (And I was so disappointed with myself when I realized that both camera batteries were dead - and the charger was at home. So I truly lived in the moments and saved up the pictures in my mind.)

There are so many special things to add to the counting this week. And there are so many, many reasons to offer Him my thanks during this last week of Advent.

#3452 - #3472

- sunlight streaming in the church windows
- listening to little ones tell the story
- special costumes to make the story real for them
- thinking again how very much God loves the little ones
- remembering that I am His child too

- helping our children
- watching as they work and make decisions together
- friends and family who pitch in to help them
- the little special touches that turn a house into a home
- a Dad who brought a special gift to his daughter

- Samuel's voice thanking us for Christmas gifts
- hearing how he is enjoying each item
- finishing sewing projects
- anticipating their reactions
- giving gifts as a way of honouring Him

- lights in the darkness
- Nativity scenes
- candles burning brightly
- Christmas trees
- the birth of our Saviour

Christmas Shopping At The Mall

2011-12-22T22:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Mary at Owlhaven for sharing this!

Five on Friday

2011-12-18T00:46:00.000-07:00

1. Meadow and I finished a surprise Christmas present for her mom today. She is so excited to see Naomi's reaction for this project that she dreamed up all by herself. I'm so happy that she asked me to help her. I hope it will be the start of many more creative days we can spend together. I love the idea of our grandchildren creating with me :)

2. Tomorrow I'm meeting up with some of my family to deliver Santa's Anonymous gifts to families in the city. It's such a great way to help out at this time of year. As my sister would say, "We made a memory" by doing it together.

3. Jennifer wrote, over at The High Calling, this week of "A Very Mary Christmas", her memories of waiting to be chosen as Mary, in the Sunday School Christmas concert. If you've ever worn a bathrobe or dishtowel costume (and even if you haven't!) , you will see the amazing eternal message in her writing.

4. Christmas baking is non-existent at this house right now. I have made several batches of poppycock - but they've all left the house, which is probably a good thing!

5. There are some beautiful displays of Christmas lights in this area. It's so much fun to wander around through the towns and countryside looking at them. I hope you take some time to do the same in your community. It definitely makes me smile and remember that Jesus came to be the Light of the world.

Happy 4th Sunday in Advent this weekend!

WINNERS!!!

2011-12-17T23:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to all of you who entered my giveaway this week!!

Random number generator picked commentor #14 as the winner! Congrats, Rachel! I'll email you right away and get those pillowcases (and a few other treats) off to you so you can enjoy them for Christmas.

As an extra thank-you to all of you, I picked a second winner - and #48 - Cal in Chile - was chosen.

I wish I could send to all of you :( I will get around to visiting all of you over the holidays though. I'm definitely looking forward to that. It's always fun to meet new bloggers - thanks so much for visiting me!

Lists of 2011 - #50

2011-12-16T01:25:00.002-07:00

Listography #50 - The Best Part of the Holidays

1. God sent Jesus to us.

2. All of our children (or most of them this year!) coming home with their partners and families.

3. Christmas Eve candlelight church service.

4. Sharing gifts.

5. Baking and eating cookies and special treats.

6. Beautiful music.

7. Colored lights on trees and houses.

8. Decorations and ornaments collected over the years.

9. Delivering Santa's Anonymous gifts.

10. Cards and letters from friends and family.

11. Candles.

12. Special food.

13. Special events like concerts and gatherings.

14. Reading the Christmas story again.

15. Sewing special projects to give to others.

16. Watching our grandchildren get excited about Christmas and seeing how they can be involved in every aspect of it.

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-12-14T20:35:00.002-07:00

Unwrapping more of His graces and goodness today. And then thinking about what Ann at A Holy Experience says:

"It’s the meek, the humble, who will receive Him still — the ones laid low, the humble ones close to the earth, close to the humus, the ones bent down. God didn’t come with any buzz — He simply comes for the broken and unlovely."

That's me, no question about it. So very thankful that He sent His son and that He keeps giving, even today.

"Preparing for the holidays is primarily a preparing of the heart. Because what comes down is love and the way to receive love isn’t to wrap anything up — but to unwrap your heart."

Oh, my - that's true, isn't it? Unwrapping - unwrapping my heart and opening it up to all that He gives and all that He expects of me.

#3418 - #3452

- more sewing projects finished
- beautiful colors + beautiful prints = beautiful fabric
- a growing stash of handmade
- thinking of them as I sew and wrap and send
- a great big box mailed off

- watching her hockey games
- playing with little B while she skates
- rocking little M to sleep
- hockey coaches who teach more than skills
- remembering when it was our kids playing

- a new idea about giving to charities
- checking off lists
- Christmas music
- sharing activities with my parents
- more Christmas concerts

- Christmas cards and pictures arriving in the mail
- a dishwasher
- planning Christmas meals
- bountiful food
- candles glowing bright

- fresh parsley from two plants that came inside
- crunchy carrot sticks
- decorated trees
- finding old ornaments
- telling big M stories of Christmas when her mommy was little

- Christmas M & Ms
- givewaway weeks
- inspired seamstresses
- smell of popcorn popping
- visiting and laughing with good friends

- God's love for each of us
- Mary's open heart
- preparing my heart for His coming
- how very blessed I am in every way

Giveaway Day at Sew, Mama, Sew!

2011-12-12T08:00:00.005-07:00

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - THANKS FOR ENTERING!!

I am thrilled to be participating in Giveaway Day at Sew, Mama, Sew again! Welcome to all visitors! I'm delighted that you decided to drop by.

My giveaway is a set of standard size "Holiday Cardinals Pillowcases" and is part of the Handmade for the Home category.

To enter, please leave your name, where you are from and then tell me what you wish you could be doing right now! Remember to leave your email address or link to your blog so that I have a way of contacting you. This giveaway is open to all visitors - I am happy to ship internationally. Entries will close on Friday, December 16 at 5:00 p.m. PST and I will notify the winners by Sunday, December 18.

Be sure to visit Sew, Mama, Sew this week and check out the links in all 5 categories of giveaways. There are some wonderful treats being shared. Good luck everyone and Merry Christmas! Thanks again for dropping by.

Five on Friday

2011-12-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

1. Jill at MamaLoaf wrote an excellent post titled, "wait and see" this week. It's excellent reading! I love how she sees Him everywhere - what a great reminder!

2. There are so many generous giveaways going on all over the web these days. Be sure to visit me - and whole bunch of others - who are participating in the Sew, Mama, Sew December giveaway day on Monday. There will definitely be lots of great things to win and great ways to be inspired!

3. I'm going to make a couple of Brownie Wreaths as gifts this year. They are so simple - and so unique.

4. I saw this on Pinterest today - thanks to my friend, Sue, for sharing it.

5. This new printer has come to live at our house, after the last one kept coming up with Code 5100 error every. single. time. I wanted to print something. I guess having the same printer for 7 years is pretty good. But now I have to learn all about the new features of this one - another learning curve :)

Lists of 2011 - #49

2011-12-09T00:32:00.001-07:00

Listography #49 - Things I Wish I Didn't Know

I had a hard time with this list. I didn't want to list things that made it appear like I want to bury my head in the sand and pretend that I live in this isolated world that has no connection to others. So my take on the prompt is more one of "things that I wish (didn't exist) so I didn't have to know about them".

1. human trafficking

2. poverty

3. abuse of any kind

4. violence in sport

5. corruption

6. injustices done to Aboriginal peoples

7. lack of clean water and proper sanitation

8. war

9. chemicals sprayed on food

10. genetic modification of plants

It's Beginning to Look - -

2011-12-08T10:48:00.001-07:00

A Lot Like Christmas!

A winter storm blew through central Alberta on Saturday so I stayed at Heather and Jonathan's, safe and snug. We had to get some groceries and along the way, a few Christmas items were added to the cart.

Helayna was absolutely thrilled to get her very own little Christmas tree. She picked the jingle bells to add and they have such a lovely sound. She rearranged them all evening. After supper, she presented a little play she made up, "The Two Trees", for our viewing pleasure. She is so, so excited about Christmas.

It was a good day to acquire Christmas decorating items - 50% off for this beautiful wreath, which looks lovely on the dark green door.

And Silas' favourite was his Advent calendar with it's tiny morsels, all stamped with CARS images. That morning he ate Sally :)

Heather has an old hutch that was my grandmother's first set of cupboards, about 60 years ago. She creates the loveliest displays on it. And Helayna moves her tree all over the place :)

The Christmas decorations came out of the boxes and this little creche found a home on the mantle.

For one of their Advent traditions, Heather wraps all the Christmas books and everyday through December they open one or two. They love to cuddle with Mommy and read these "new" books.

And outside? Everything was frosted with a fresh dusting of white snow - which Helayna and Heather kindly swept off my car. It's December in Alberta!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-12-06T22:55:00.001-07:00

Two candles are burning on the Advent wreath and the days are counting down. All around me are the signs of Christmas and the messages of devotionals and sermons are turning my thoughts more and more to this wondrous miracle that we remember.

#3381 - #3416

- lights glowing on the outside of the house
- Nativity figures gathered on the mantle
- a new Advent candle stand
- excitement as the tree ornaments were unwrapped
- imagination that can make a tree out of anything tall!

- my favourite quilt hanging back on the wall
- Christmas all around the house
- building a fort with chairs and cushions
- reading books together
- little hands tucked in mine

- seeing her school
- her wonder "why were all the people clapping for me?"
- teachers who guide and care for little students
- a school that's raising money to build a school in Kenya
($3000 out of $8500 raised so far!)
- watching as she (and a classmate from every classroom) got People Respecting Others awards

- dry roads
- spending an evening with my parents
- my wonderful Dad
- seeing so much of Dad and Bob's Dad in our son
- a visit to an almost-ready-to-move-in house

- phone calls and news from Samuel and Melinda
- catching up on what everyone did over the weekend
- signs of Christmas everywhere
- safe travel for Bob
- Maëlle's giggle

- daily capture of December
- safe arrival of our great-nephew
- names that come with strong Bible characters
- bread baking
- our daughter and son-in-law's happy front door (and a self-portrait)

- that God would send His son to us
- Zechariah who waited for so, so long on God's promises
- that "nothing is impossible with God"
- pastors who bring the gospel alive
- songs of Christmas

Five on Friday

2011-12-03T00:07:00.001-07:00

1. Have you heard of Chai Nog Latte'? I had some from WAVES, an independent coffee shop in Sylvan Lake yesterday and it was delicious! They had so many interesting beverage choices - I'll be stopping there again.

2. Today I got to go with Helayna to her school, where she was honoured with a PRO (People Respecting Others) award at an assembly. One student from each class was chosen, called to the front and given a certificate. There were more than 500 kids in the gym so the clapping for each student was pretty loud. Afterwards Helayna asked why everyone was clapping so loudly for her - it was so sweet! When the kindergarten kids are all at school, the population is over 700 - now that's a lot of kindergarten to grade 4 kids!

Before the awards were given out, some of the student leadership kids shared an update about fundraising efforts for a "Me to We" project the school is doing. They have a goal of building a new school in Kenya and need to raise $8500. Today they went from $1000 to $3000, after doing 3 fundraising events this month. Pretty amazing!

3. I emptied the last box of tomatoes today and they are being cooked as stewed tomatoes. I'm going to have a hard time buying fresh tomatoes in the store now!

4. There are still 2 pumpkins and a few squash waiting to be cut and cooked up. The goodness from our garden just goes on and on!

5. I've put out the Christmas nativity scene, hung my Christmas quilt on the wall and decorated with a few other things. Only 22 days until Christmas - that's less than 3 weeks :)

Lists of 2011 - #48

2011-12-01T23:49:00.001-07:00

Listography #48 - If I Never Had to Sleep, I Would - - -

1. Sew all night long! Just imagine how much I could get done :))

2. Or scrapbook sometimes

3. Read

4. Finish painting the house

5. Write letters

6. Learn to knit and crochet

7. Renovate the bathroom

8. Create some photobooks

9. Bake bread, buns and donuts

10. Entertain friends - the ones that wouldn't need to sleep either!

Today

2011-12-01T01:37:00.001-07:00

Today I love the . . .

smell: gingerbread tea light candles from IKEA

sound: Christmas carols from Amy Grant's CDs

taste: the last Mexican meat pie that was still in the freezer

sight: Christmas lights shining through the dark

feel: two new pairs of shoes (I knew as soon as I slid my foot in, that they were the right ones!)

(idea from the incolororder blog)

Creating

2011-11-30T00:21:00.000-07:00

I always start my December Daily album on the 1st Sunday of Advent so I already have a few pages created. But I've been working the last 2 days and getting a good photo of the pages hasn't happened yet. Progress is being made on a few sewing projects but again no pictures. Do you sense a pattern here?!

But perhaps in the meantime you'd like to play in your kitchen and make a batch of this delectable shortbread. I guarantee it's easy and 'melt-in-your-mouth' good.

Whipped Shortbread
(from Country Woman magazine, November/December, 1992)

3 cups butter, softened slightly
1 1/2 cups icing sugar, sifted
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups cornstarch
candied cherries or colored sugar (optional)

Using a heavy-duty mixer, beat butter on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Gradually add dry ingredients, beating constantly until well blended. Mixture will be stiff.
Roll dough into 1 inch balls and dip in colored sugar or place a small piece of cherry on top.
Flatten tops of cookies slightly and place on ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake at 300 degrees F for 20 - 22 minutes or until cookie is set but not browned.
Let cool slightly on sheet and then carefully transfer to cooling rack.
Yield - 10 - 12 dozen cookies (recipe may be halved for 5 dozen)
May be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for 1 - 2 months.

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-11-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

"With all my heart, I am waiting, Lord, for you! I trust your promises." Psalm 130:5

And while the waiting for His birthday is numbered in the next four weeks, I count on - because He never waits to show me His love and care.

#3341- #3381

- warmer weather
- good driving conditions
- reading to students
- volunteers
- icicles hanging from Christmas lights

- school secretaries
- students practising for Christmas concerts
- enthusiasm and smiles as they describe their parts
- amazing music teachers
- stacks of photocopying

- cards in the mail
- library books
- old pictures
- a day with Meadow and Blake at our house
- Christmas poinsettias from a nearby greenhouse

- scrapbooking with her
- pulling out supplies so it will be just the way she wants it
- hearing "I can do it this way because it's my book"
- celebrating that she wants to do it herself
- looking at pictures of when her mama was a little girl

- cuddles from little boys
- lemon and ginger tea
- little girl hair buns
- Samuel's request for us to come to visit (we would go in a heartbeat if we could)
- baking Christmas cookies

- first Advent candle lit
- Sunday School class with one pupil - wonderful teaching opportunity
- 80th birthday celebrations
- families who come together to celebrate
- the love and support of our faith family

- orange and pink gilding the sky as the sun rises above the horizon
- a new ceramic travel mug
- time to sew
- more corners cleaned out and tidied up
- fondue night

- waiting with calm and a peaceful heart
- working with others, on a special project to make a difference
- Advent devotions
- His light that fills the darkness
- the love of my Saviour - that empowers me

Quote of the Day

2011-11-28T00:59:00.001-07:00

(image from www.thegardener.btinternet.co.uk)

"See joy in what you give - not what you get."

Very good advice for the Advent season,
posted on the signboard outside the local Anglican church today.

Five on Friday

2011-11-26T01:03:00.001-07:00

1. Meadow and Blake came to our house today while Naomi went to the city. We had great fun with the paper punches, books, toys and our imaginations :)

2. I'm enjoying Stash Merry Mint Green tea these days. It's just right for cold days. (Thanks for the recommendation, H!)

3. My sister sent me this video from one of the TED talks. It's so worth listening to and very compelling to use each day in a way that makes the world better. You will be inspired!

4. The sun was gone and it was dark by 5:00 p.m. tonight. Still a whole month before the shortest day of the year. I'm not liking this very much!

5. Here's a delicious idea for a winter breakfast that cooks in your crockpot!

image from sweettreatsmore.com

Lists of 2011 - #47

2011-11-24T20:16:00.001-07:00

Listography #47 - Things I Am Thankful For

It's just a little list but it holds so much meaning -

1. Good health

2. A place to call home

3. Our amazing children and their families

4. Peace in our country

5. Living in a rural location

6. Electronic communications - especially email and cell phones

7. The ability to read

8. Pictures and scrapbooks

9. Time - to use in so many ways

10. Enthusiasm all around me - from children, friends and family to share and pass on

11. Smiles

12. Abundant food

Creating

2011-11-22T23:54:00.000-07:00

For Helaya's birthday, I made her a little fairy nightgown.

It was perfect since she celebrated with a fairy theme this year!

It's so much fun sewing for the little ones in my life :)

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-11-21T23:47:00.002-07:00

Our pastor spoke about the year ending yesterday as we look to the beginning of Advent next week. He suggested we reflect on the year past and then think about how we will share whatever God gives us in the year ahead. It was definitely a challenge for sharing with "the least of these" as Matthew 25 says.

#3308 - #3341

- time to read while the furnace blows warm air
- old, old movies
- warm slippers
- a reliable vehicle on very cold days
- warm mitts and boots

- perogies made by Bob's mom
- family gathered
- strong and healthy little ones playing together
- our nephew and his wife who hosted the family gathering
- everyone bringing food to add to the feast

- having everything ready the night before it's needed
- a major (and much needed) attitude adjustment overnight
- reading words from Ann that reinforced my adjustment
- a crockpot
- sunshine sparkling on snow as we drove to church

- Bob's aunt's fruit bread - and the loaf she slipped under my arm
- hotpacks and a microwave to warm them
- shared suppers
- friends who open their home
- chocolate angel food cake with buttercream icing and fresh raspberries

- a wonderful baker friend
- playing games and sharing laughter
- messages - and then conversations - with Melinda
- Samuel playing the harmonica on the phone for me
- listening to Helayna read via video

- hoodies
- finding little gifts for Christmas
- giving away packages
- toys collected by Bob's family for Santa's Anonymous
- making a gift certificate

- how God can turn me around
- that He forgives me and my whining
- seeing it all differently by His grace

Right Now

2011-11-21T00:46:00.001-07:00

November 20, 2011

right now, I am ...

:: marveling that it's the last week of the church year before Advent begins

:: revisiting the conversations we had around the supper table tonight

:: plotting how I can get all the sewing done for Christmas that I'm dreaming about

:: finishing the last piece of a delicious chocolate angel food cake that my friend sent home.

:: stopping to think about how I can share what God has blessed us with

:: wondering what pictures I need to print for a little scrapbook project

:: casting around for a few more Christmas gift ideas

:: listening to Hymns by Out of Eden

:: queing more bags and boxes for the second hand store

:: feeling that it was a busy weekend but the week ahead is calmer

:: loving the fresh white snow that's covered everything

:: hoping the temperature moderates a whole lot this week - it was minus 28 degrees Celsius at 8 pm last night

:: wanting to be finished one of my worst things to do ever!

:: thinking about the Christmas cookies I want to start baking

:: reminding myself that Christmas is about people and memories

:: making notes on the calendar for December committments

:: planning to enjoy every day of the month ahead

(prompted by Amanda at SouleMama)

Five on Friday

2011-11-19T00:29:00.000-07:00

1. Winfield Mighty Ducks - 7 Warburg Sharks - 3
It was a very good game by both sides - and our favourite player hustled like a trooper!

2. Butternut Squash Ravioli, in all its red and yellow striped glory, from Costco is delicious. I made a white sauce with onions, peppers and mushrooms to go over top and it was a quick but very yummy supper this week. I highly recommend this pasta.

3. The saskatoon tree in front of our house is hosting 3 big beautiful grosbeaks this week. They love eating the leftover berries and it's cool to watch them work very diligently to nibble them off the stems.

4. SouleMama showed this awesome Acorn Cakelet Pan (from Williams and Sonoma) with her pumpkin muffins this week. It makes the sweetest shapes ever and definitely goes on my wish list!

5. Bob's family is gathering for an early Christmas celebration tomorrow. I've had to get in the Christmas spirit in a real hurry this week :) Off to wrap three little gifts.

Quote of the Day

2011-11-18T16:04:00.000-07:00

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion;

if you want to be happy,

practice compassion. ”

Mary Stewbeck -

(from Values)

Lists of 2011 - #46

2011-11-17T20:28:00.001-07:00

Listography #46 - People That I Love

In random order:

1. Our (soon-to-be 8) grandchildren - Meadow, Helayna, Silas, Samuel, Blake and Maëlle

2. Our four children and their amazing partners: Darrin and Kelsey, Heather and Jonathan, Melinda and Tyler, Naomi and Gerald

3. My husband, Bob

4. My parents, Gus and Elfriende

5. My sisters, Teresa and Esther, and their families

6. My brothers, Del and Brent, and their families

7. Our amazing friends - so, so many of them and so, so many memories

8. Our Compassion sponsored children, Helene in Brazil and Dinknesh in Ethiopia

9. Doctors and nurses who work tirelessly to help people feel better

10. People who work hard in service industries and who can still smile and be courteous

I could go on and on but I'll leave it at that :)

Creating

2011-11-15T22:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, the talented Danielle Flanders shared a giveaway on her blog (you should drop over and see her beautiful creations) - and I was the lucky winner!! This lovely package of Echo Park's "Season's Greetings" arrived a few days ago and I am really looking forward to using it in my December Daily album. The package includes all the papers, alphabet stickers, element stickers, cool brads and a set of clear stamps. Thanks so much, Danielle - it was like getting an early Christmas present!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-11-14T23:16:00.002-07:00

Taking words right from Ann and one of her posts from Ecuador (where she was touring with Compassion International) last week:

"And thanksgiving only becomes thanksliving when joy in the blessings given from above — overflows into the blessings given all around.

Thanksgiving only becomes thanksliving when the thanks for His vertical, coming-down grace — is expressed as a horizontal, reaching-out grace.

Thanksgiving only becomes thanksliving — when thanksgiving to God overflows into a joy of giving.

The joy of giving thanks – is ultimately expressed in the joy of giving."

How absolutely true!

#3278 - #3308

- being able to follow along on the Compassion Bloggers trip
- God's amazing people in Ecuador
- being convicted to do something
- feeling God move my heart
- beautiful photographs

- sewing, sewing, sewing
- going from lengths of fabric to completed projects
- beautiful colors and coordinating prints
- packing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child
- adding letters and closing the boxes

- lively discussions
- pondering
- knowing that is exactly what He means for me
- weekly challenge from the pastor
- worship music

- spinach dip
- chocolate ganache
- turkey dinner
- cups of tea
- visits with friends

- my sister coming to visit
- long conversations
- candles glowing
- breakfast together
- hugs

- bags out of our house
- emails from our children
- a little voice whispering, "I'm a Christian, Gramma!"
- God's love and tender care of our grandchildren
- writing letters

Five on Friday

2011-11-12T15:11:00.002-07:00

Okay - well make that Saturday!

1. It snowed last night! And it looks very cold and winter-y outside today. Today makes me even more thankful for the beautiful long fall we had.

2. Naomi challenged me to do the 30 Bags in 30 Days challenge this month. So far, 10 bags / boxes have departed for recycling, the secondhand store and the garbage. I'm on a roll!

3. For inspiration today, you must check out the Write. Click. Scrapbook site. They have three awesome challenges posted as part of a Saturday series. I was excited to look back in my photo archives and I found this picture that I took exactly one year ago!

I was at Heather and Jonathan's unloading some empty jars from the car and Helayna hung these 'bracelets' on the tree :) What a happy memory for today!

4. The first batch of poppycock was made - and half consumed by our Bible study guests - yesterday :) Let the season begin!

5. And on that note, the Canadian Tenors Christmas CD, "The Perfect Gift" is playing now. Thanks, S!

Lists of 2011 - #45

2011-11-10T22:46:00.001-07:00

Listography #45 - Things I Have Broken or Lost

1. My glasses - only once! I was on a 4-H awards trip to Chicago and near the end of the 10 day trip I lost my glasses. I still have no idea where they went. Maybe got left behind while visiting with other delegates - we did do lots of circulating between different state rooms! My mom was less than impressed when I got home.

2. Drinking glasses of all shapes and sizes - they just seem to slip out of my hands! And in the kitchen they are the most likely item to bite the dust.

3. A navy-blue fleece half-zip jacket - I wore it one winter and it was never seen again.

4. If I can stretch the word "broken" to include vehicles - our red Dodge Caravan that was written off after hitting a tree in the ditch just a few winters ago. It was a sad day indeed!

5. The handle on the cream pitcher for my set of Royal Albert china.

6. Not all of them have really been my fault, but a "few" repairs have been required on the forage harvester and hy-dump when I've been driving during silage season.

7. A fence post that was clipped off by the riding lawn mower when I was cutting the grass.

I'm sure Bob could add to this list of mine - if you asked him!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

A new little experiment

Lemon Water in the Morning

Creating

2011-11-08T23:46:00.001-07:00

This week I'm packing up shoeboxes to send to Operation Christmas Child, sponsored by Samaritan's Purse. I started out thinking I would do two but once I got going, I had enough items to actually pack four - which made me even happier! Earlier this fall, I was inspired by Melissa, at One Crafty Mumma, who sewed something cute for her nephew and by Josie, at Mr. Monkeysuit, who made something special and put it in a shoebox last year. So I made up my mind that I was going to create something to put in my boxes this year.

This is a fabric cars caddy, all closed and packed -

and here's what the inside looks like! There are six little pockets to hold the vehicles along the bottom and then a little road / playmat along the top. It was really easy to create - the tutorial is so easy to follow. I love how it turned out and I hope some little boy will be thrilled with it too!

And this is what I put in the girl's box:

There's a zippered pouch and a traveling art show caddy.

The art roll unfolds to this -

and the pouch opens up like this.

I stuffed it with sewing supplies including some fabric, needles, buttons, embroidery thread and scissors. Perhaps it will make an older girl / teen smile too! I think more of these projects just might be in my future :)

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-11-08T19:34:00.001-07:00

Resting in all the goodness that He provides and counting on with a full heart!

#3238 - #3278

- a new calendar page
- reorganizing fabric bins and finding lace and ribbon
- the washer and dryer working merrily away
- freshly folded fabrics
- looking back at layouts of the grandchildren when they were little

- uninterrupted days at home
- easily finding online information about Green Zebra tomatoes
- oatmeal with pears, walnuts and maple syrup
- washing the outside windows
- empty greenhouse

- slowly gathering treasures for Christmas gifts
- an evening out with good friends
- delicious Chinese food at my favourite local restaurant
- laughing at a drama production
- sewing for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes

- Silas' conversation on the phone
- how Blake is talking so much more
- sweet Maëlle and her happy smiles
- Helayna's excitement and birthday happiness
- watching Meadow's hockey game

- missing Samuel and resting in the memories
- rejoicing with Darrin and Kelsey
- their news about a baby in the spring!
- trusting that this new little one will grow in His perfect way
- grandchild #7 - how amazing!

- basic ingredients + a can of soup + some seasonings = easy supper
- warm gloves
- taking out bags and boxes of things we don't need
- second hand stores that accept donations
- photo challenges from Shutter Sisters

signs of fall

(elm seeds on a November day)

- cards in the mail from Leigh
- supporting her as she prepares for a trip to the Congo
- Christmas lights strung up
- visiting in a parking lot
- an extra hour of sleep

- bloggers who go to places that I can't
- God's reminders that I am a "child" of His
- seeing myself in our grandchildren
- recognizing my rebellion and outbursts as He must see them
- knowing that He holds me just as I hold them

Five on Friday

2011-11-05T19:00:00.001-06:00

1. The temperature started dropping yesterday afternoon and it went from +8 to -11 degrees C in about 6 hours. And along with that, came our first skiff of snow. November = winter, I guess.

2. After we did some garden work, I washed all the outside windows. And then I put up our Christmas lights :) which led to me thinking that we need another few strings to really make the house look festive. We'll see if that happens! I just had them on for a few hours and now they'll stay unplugged until December.

Before

After

(but I think I'll change this up yet)

I like my time-lapse photography!

3. Meadow has her first hockey game tomorrow.

4. We are going with four of our good friends to see a local drama society production of "Social Security" tonight. I'm sure it will be a good time plus we'll be supporting the local arts community.

5. I chopped 30 cups of tomatoes today in preparation for salsa making. And I still have lots to ripen. It was a very good year for tomatoes!

Lists of 2011 - #44

2011-11-03T21:19:00.002-06:00

Listography #44 - Best Desserts

1. pumpkin or apple pie

2. brownie pudding

3. rhubarb crisp, especially the first one of the spring

4. berries + brown sugar + cream

5. strawberry shortcake

6. pumpkin cheesecake

7. raspberry mallow squares

8. ginger ice cream sandwiches

9. Christmas pudding with warm caramel sauce

10. cream puffs

Walk With Him Wednesday

2011-11-03T00:49:00.000-06:00

cracked

empty

stained and worn

not much to look at

but

made into something beautiful

when filled up

and growing -

just like me

when I am planted

and growing

in Him!

Creating

2011-11-01T21:49:00.001-06:00

My beautiful niece, Jen and her husband, Will are expecting their first baby in December. Her sister, Mel, hosted a baby shower a few weeks ago and I made a rag quilt for her gift. This is the second one in a month and I used the things I learned last time to make this one better :) Naomi helped me pick out the fabrics and Jen said it matches what they've done with the nursery - yeah!!

The front

Closeup

The back where I pieced in some prints

Label on the back

(a local quilt store gives one of these panels

with your order sometimes)

I'm so happy I could make this little one a special gift!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-10-31T20:43:00.001-06:00

October is drawing to a close and the forecast is for snow later this week. It's the end of the growing season and my thoughts are turning inward too. It's time to reflect and plan and get excited for Advent is coming - and the celebration of Jesus' birth is getting closer!

#3208 -3238

- a plain, ordinary day at home
- the most amazing news :)
- planning projects
- warm temperatures outside
- more bowls of ripe tomatoes

- spinach + goat cheese + mushrooms + candied pecans = yummy salad
- bowl full of candy treats
- music, glorious music with a message for me
- leftovers from hosting coffee at church
- beauty in tree branches and candles' glow

- safe trip home for Mel and Samuel
- memories strewn along with the toys scattered
- fabric sales
- online inspiration for shoebox gifts
- jars of sauerkraut

- little visitors in costume

- candy :)

- pear-walnut coffee cake

- sunshine on a windy autumn day

- leaves covering the lawn

- sadness that makes the remembering poignant

- memories of teaching together in Belize

- scenic way home

- Bible study group gathering

- garden laid to rest

- leaves twirling in the wind

- blog post about grandchildren and how God loves us as we love them

- camera lens fixed and computer working again

- lesson and sermon on being humble

- God's all-knowing, all-loving grace to me

Right Now

2011-10-31T12:36:00.000-06:00

Inspired by Amanda Soule once again (I tell you she has so much inspiration wrapped up in her head that's shared on her blog, SouleMama!) to capture today.

RIght now, I am...

:: marveling that it will be November 1st tomorrow and we have not had one snowflake fall yet! It really has been a lovely October.

:: tired of cleaning out garden, pots and greenhouse.

:: laughing as I pick up and put away all the toys that our grandchildren scattered across the living room last week. So many treasured memories of their antics and conversations!

:: overwhelmed that I still have a 20 lb. box of unripened tomatoes and 20 lbs. of apples, both from our garden, to deal with.

:: pleasantly surprised that I have nearly everything I need for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes I want to finish this week.

:: wondering, what to do with the tomato plants in the greenhouse. They aren't growing much and it's supposed to dip down to -6 degrees C by Friday. That means the heat would have to be on constantly and I dread even thinking about what our electricity bill would look like!

:: grateful that my 17 - 85 mm lens is back from the repair shop, rebuilt and working wonderfully.

:: hearing the wind as it rattles around the house today.

:: going to giveaway all the Halloween candy, I hope! We don't usually get many kids out here but I always buy treats, just in case - and then guess who eats them all up with some help from me?!

:: planning projects to sew for Christmas.

:: digging that Sew, Mama, Sew is starting their month of Handmade Holiday projects tomorrow!

:: knitting nothing - I wish I knew how!

:: listening to Blessings by Laura Story. I heard her on the radio in the tractor this summer and downloaded this song. I love it!

:: saying goodbye to another batch of tomatoes who are cooking themselves into salsa.

:: inspired by Ali Edwards to begin my December Daily album building.

:: happy to be home for most of this week.

:: delighted to hear 'tidings of great joy'!

:: waiting for the vacuum cleaner to propel itself around the house :)

:: being so very grateful for 56 years of living and all the joys of having a family!

Five on Friday

2011-10-28T11:30:00.013-06:00

1. It's so very quiet at our house today. Melinda and Samuel left yesterday to return home to Fredericton and we miss them so much. The "Where is Grampa Bob?" question didn't get asked once today!

2. I had a huge reminder this week that life. is. so. very. short. and you just never know what will happen - which makes the time we've spent as family over the past month even more precious.

3. Two months until Christmas! And we haven't had one flake of snow yet :))

4. Hopefully picture posting will resume very soon. My laptop is currently at the computer hospital!

5. The jars of sauerkraut I made this year are processing in a hot water bath and will soon join the rest of my bounty on the pantry shelves. I still have tomato plants in the greenhouse and boxes of them ripening in the basement. I don't think I'll make my November 1st deadline for finishing canning!

Lists of 2011 - #43

2011-10-27T16:30:00.000-06:00

Listography #43 - 10 Halloween Costumes You Have Worn

1. Wicked witch

2. Hockey referee

3. Ketchup bottle

4. Construction worker

5. Farmer

6. Clown

7. Old lady

8. Hobo

9. Nurse

10. Teacher

(This year the teachers at one school I sub at are all dressing up as characters from Robert Munsch stories - very clever, don't you think?!)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T13:08:00.000-06:00

The view from our deck -

Two years ago -

in Zanzibar -

Ahhhhhhhh!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-10-24T22:20:00.000-06:00

I have to remind myself that every single, tiny-and insignificant-as-it-may-seem, thing is a gift from my Heavenly Father. God gives it all and it's up to me to use it in some way. To use it in praise and worship of Him, to share it as a gift or token to someone else, to pass it along that the way might be smoother and brighter for another person. So today I count on, noticing and committing to praise and service. All is grace, as Ann says.

#3177 - #3208

- safe arrival of Melinda and Samuel
- little boy trailing Grampa everywhere
- a house filled with those we love
- hearing him talk about cousins and uncles and aunties
- giggles and smiles

- 5th birthday parties
- how excited she gets
- that everyone made her feel special
- gifts and toys picked especially for her
- birthday meals

- Mamas who make special decorations
- birthday cakes
- little brothers who love big sisters
- leftovers
- walks to the park, just them and I
- last lingering blooms

- reading stories, all nestled together
- filling the fridge with groceries
- safe driving
- phone calls, so easy and yet so meaningful
- time that our children can share with each other

- empty rows of carrots
- onions hanging in a mesh bag
- big pot of turkey barley soup
- pumpkin chocolate cake
- foccacia bread for sandwiches

,- amazing love that He would do it all for me
- safe and secure in God's plan
- online devotions to start the morning
- music seemingly written just for me
- my great big God

Savouring

2011-10-23T11:46:00.000-06:00

Just savouring the morning-after goodness of a certain little girl's 5th birthday party -
The trying on of new clothes (and realizing that her long legs need size 6 pants),
the little hands strumming on the new guitar,
the whirling and twirling of the Snow White costume,
the reading of a stack of new books,
the listening to a new CD (Tschaikovsky Visits America - which she loves),
the sleepy yawns and tired eyes,
the playing and laughing at a new game, Whack-A-Mole,
the cousins finding their way together after nearly 10 months apart,
all the goodness of a family being together.

She's called me to walk to the park with her!
I'm off on a new day's adventures!

Five on Friday

2011-10-22T01:46:00.000-06:00

1. Apparently the USB connection on my laptop no longer works - which makes downloading pictures impossible :(

2. Just the thought of roast turkey and sauerkraut with pork hocks today meant that I stayed home from the church's Harvest Supper. I think I'm feeling better after a two hour nap.

3. Birthday party celebration for Helayna is on our weekend agenda. Turning 5 is exciting!

4. It's so much fun having Samuel and Melinda home for a few days. Samuel is definitely a fan of Grampa Bob and his tractors!

5. Nothing quite like a mug of chicken noodle soup at 1:30 in the morning :)

Lists of 2011 - #42

2011-10-20T23:51:00.000-06:00

Listography #42 - Things I Wish I Could Do Better

1. Swim

2. Play musical instruments including the piano and guitar

3. Climb and hike

4. Draw

5. Make pastry

6. Home renovation projects

7. Keep the weeds out of flowerbeds and gardens

8. Keep my house clean

9. Photography

10. Recite scriptures from memory

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-10-18T21:07:00.002-06:00

"But when the Spirit of the living God lives inside of you, then your living is also your worship. Everything that is is because he is I Am. ”For in Him we live and move and exist.” (Acts 17:28) We are able to worship in all that we do. And anything worth doing will also be worship. What else would it be?"
(from Emily @ Chatting At The Sky)

I love those words! Together with our pastor's question "What are you going to do with all that God gives you this week?" I am looking forward to a week of living in His grace and counting the little gifts I notice for all gifts are from Him!

#3152 - #3177

- golden leaves on trees
- bright orange Hubbards squash on the counter
- pale green shreds of cabbage fermenting
- a beautiful Morden Yellow tomato from the greenhouse
- brilliant orange marigolds lingering on in the garden

- traditional methods of making things like sauerkraut
- a birthday invitation in the mail
- turkey roasting in the oven
- simple harvest meals
- sitting long around the kitchen table

- looking at pictures we took in Europe again
- hearing about the grand adventures friends had
- cutting fabric to sew a nightgown
- finding just the right birthday gift
- staying under the budget

- stacking potato sacks in a safe, dark place
- water soaking in around the apple trees
- a counter full of baking
- pulling the last beets from the garden
- beautiful blue sky

- eating frozen blueberries
- hearing that Melinda and Samuel are on their way after missing a flight
- musical reminders of how much God loves and cares for me
- studying scripture
- looking for opportunities in everything He sends my way

Five on Friday

2011-10-15T00:57:00.001-06:00

1. From the kitchen this week it was all about zucchini! Zucchini Chocolate Bundt Cake, Zucchini Bran Muffins, and Savoury Zucchini Squares. Still to come - Vegetarian Lasagne with - you guessed it! - zucchini. I'll share recipes next week.

2. There are currently 4 - 20 lb. boxes of tomatoes stashed in the basement, waiting to ripen. I still want to make another batch of salsa and one of tomato sauce. It seems like the garden - and the work! - just goes on and on this year.

3. We haven't had a real killing frost yet and it's the middle of October! Amazing and so wonderful!

4. The big blue Alberta sky and lingering coloured leaves continue to be absolutely gorgeous!

5. Only 3 more sleeps until a certain grandson and his mama arrive in Alberta for a visit!!!

Lists of 2011 - #41

2011-10-13T22:28:00.001-06:00

Listography #41 - Things I Like To Wear

1. Scarves

2. Earrings and bracelets

3. Capris

4. High heels (even though my feet don't always agree!)

5. Jeans

6. Down-filled vests

7. Dresses or skirts

8. My gramma's pearls

9. Warm jackets and coats (in the winter)

10. Leather gloves (especially for driving)

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-10-12T11:38:00.002-06:00

It's Thanksgiving weekend here. Between gathering with family, eating traditional foods and giving thanks for a season of growing and harvesting, is the feeling that I am so very glad that my thanks happens every day. And I am thankful that my God extends His grace to me, new and fresh every day. Reading Ann's book, 1000 Gifts, has produced in me a changed heart and a changed way of looking at my life. How very amazing and wonderful is my God who supplies all, far beyond my needs and expectations - every single day!

#3112 - #3152

- a day without internet service
- creating cards
- baking bread and buns
- eating a bun with butter melting on it
- golden morning sunrise

- cutting up flannel to make a quilt
- sewing a new zipper into Samuel's jacket and praying for him
- planning Christmas gifts
- patterns for little ones
- raking leaves

- newly shingled roof for our daughter and her family, finished in two days
- 6 men, tools and building talents
- helping Naomi in her kitchen
- rocking Maëlle to sleep
- a yard full of kids

- appetizer lunches
- 4 women working together in the kitchen
- Thanksgiving supper
- pumpkin pie with whipped cream
- full plates

- camping in the driveway
- grandchildren coming in to wake us in the morning
- reading in bed with them
- playing "Go Fish"
- building fairy houses with rocks

- leftovers
- pulling out tomato plants that produced well
- gradually emptying the garden
- Bob's help in the potato patch
- last sweet peas of the season

- freshly dug carrots
- golden leaves still clinging to branches
- +17 degrees Celsius
- making sauerkraut with Bob's mom
- potatoes dug out

- God's amazing bounty in the harvest
- sharing the plenty we have with others
- being able to pray for a friend who needs healing
- trusting that God has it all under control
- learning more from His word

Quotes

2011-10-09T00:46:00.001-06:00

More pleasing to Me than all your prayers, works and penances

is that you would believe I love you.

~Jesus' words to Marjory Kempe in 1667 (quoted by Manning, TRG)

via A Holy Experience

Lists of 2011 - #40

2011-10-07T00:10:00.000-06:00

Listography #40 - Things That Inspire Me

1. Knowing that God does it all for me

2. Encouragement and examples from others, including those in blogland

3. Wanting no regrets and loose ends when my life here ends

4. Our grandchildren and children - their love, their curiousity, their smiles and hugs

5. Colours

6. Sharing my talents and what I make

7. Friendship and neighborliness

8. Travel and seeing people around the world

9. Music and scripture

10. Projects and deadlines :)

Simply Ten Good Things

2011-10-05T20:33:00.000-06:00

Using another one of Amanda Soule's awesome ideas - just a simple list of some good things in my day.

a haircut
more tomatoes
a frozen turkey
bologna, cheese and tomato with relish on a fresh whole wheat bun
pie plates at the thrift store
boxes of apples
cutting flannel and batting
praying for a long-awaited baby to arrive safely
an orange pillowcase bag
hot soapy water for washing dishes

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-10-05T13:13:00.002-06:00

I've been reading the New Testament in my Bible and am currently in the book of Romans. Yesterday we attended service at Rockpointe Church with Heather and Jonathan and the sermon was on Romans 4 - exactly where I was in my reading. It's amazing how God orchestrates stuff like that!

In this chapter, Paul talks about Abraham, his faith and his relationship with God. I knew that Abraham was an old man when his wife Sarah conceived a child but I had no idea that he had to wait for 14 years for God's promise to come true. Are you like me and often wondering when (oh, when!) will God keep His promise or answer my prayer? It dawned on me that I might have to wait 14 years sometimes but God always comes through if I have big faith. The pastor talked about 'Big Faith, Big God' and how we sometimes fail to believe how big our God really is - there is nothing He can't do!! It was an awesome service.

When we have faith, God's grace is boundless - and I already knew that but hearing it again was exactly what this wandering spirit needed to hear. Faith that He can do anything - faith that He can do more than I can even imagine - faith that praying and giving it to God is far better than my worrying.

So I count more grace-gifts and thank Him for filling my life with more than I even realize.

#3086 - #3111

- no frost until October 1st
- Bob picking the last apples from the top step of the ladder
- a box and a basket full of tomatoes to take south
- picking pumpkins and squash off the vines
- marigolds shining on in the garden

- connecting with challenging students
- watching their faces light up as they imagine the story
- maps and finding places
- educational assistants who really know and understand kids
- flexibility about when I go to work

- visits with our children and their families
- weekends away from home
- watching our son in the kitchen and in the garden
- Kelsey's first hockey goal
- pumpkins hiding and surprising K

- last Farmer's Market of the season
- watching Helayna pick out a pumpkin
- yellow leaves covering the path
- Sunday afternoon walks
- big sticks + streams = happy kids

- travelling home safely
- memories of two days
- planning for the next week
- still more tomatoes to pick
- His amazing, boundless grace!

Missing

2011-10-05T09:09:00.000-06:00

Well, actually I'm not missing but our internet connection has gone silent :( So for now I need to ask for your patience while we attempt to get back on the interwebs. I'll be back as soon as I can!

Canning Inventory

2011-09-30T21:43:00.002-06:00

On the first weekend in September, Heather and I drove to the Okanagan Valley in BC to pick up fruit and bring it home to preserve. It's been a busy, busy month but I have so much goodness stored up from that trip - and our garden - for a long, cold winter.

For the first time ever, I had to expand to 3 shelves on the right hand side to get everything in! I still want to make one more batch of salsa, some sauerkraut and there are lots of green tomatoes that need to ripen.

Inventory List of Jars

6 nectarines

7 plums

21 apricots

52 peaches

21 pears

34 tomatoes

13 tomato salsa

10 apricot salsa

3 tomato sauce

12 zucchini relish

5 raspberry jam

10 apricot syrup

9 beet relish

7 applesauce

10 dill pickles

9 dill slices/spears

I have plans to share some of this bounty with other families too. What a gracious God that has provided all this food!

P.S. There are several bags of berries, containers of applesauce and bags of kernel corn in the freezer too :)

Lists of 2011 - #39

2011-09-29T22:59:00.001-06:00

Lists of 2011 - #39 - Causes I Favour

1. Compassion International

2. Canadian Lutheran World Relief

3. Samaritan's Purse

4. Women's Shelters

5. The Mustard Seed

6. Santa's Anonymous

7. Libraries and getting books to children

8. Women for Women

9. Fair trade organizations

10. Farmer run markets, stores and shops around the world

Walk With Him Wednesday

2011-09-28T21:33:00.000-06:00

Thinking About Hope In a Potato Patch

As I pull out the dried stems and leaves and dig through the dirt today to find the potatoes, I think back to the day the sprouts were buried deep in the garden soil. Each one was just a little piece of red and white with two or three small growing ends beginning to break out of the eyes. And we had hope and trusted that the Master Grower who created all things living had blueprinted reproduction in these potatoes and there would be plants and flowers and tubers soon growing. That was only four months ago and now I scrape the hard dirt away from eight or ten tubers per hill. The little bit of hope with some sunlight and rain grew and multiplied into these red orbs that will feed us and others on many days when the land is covered in snow.

Then I begin to think about the little bits of hope that are planted by my actions, sometimes not intentionally at all or even when I realize it. The times in a classroom when math problems are tackled or sentences are written. The smile and chat I have with a lonely student as I supervise at recess. The sharing of a few ripe tomatoes and crunchy apples with those who no longer have yards or gardens, only an apartment in town. The letters and scripture verses of love and guidance that are sent to Ethiopia and Brazil to our Compassion children. Small things to me really but perhaps to them a bit of hope planted in a lonely or hurting heart. Who knows what a few months or many years will grow with that hope? When watered and nourished by the One who promises living water and His light I am absolutely convinced that those seeds will mature in ways that I have no idea about now.

So I keep planting hope, daily and piece by piece, and leave the rest to Him.

Creating

2011-09-27T23:10:00.001-06:00

Or at least I'm planning to very soon with this lovely bundle of free fabric that I won over at The Green Bag Lady! Teresa's vision is to rid the world of plastic bags so she and her crew are sewing and giving away fabric shopping bags. I've had one for more than a year now.

There are 4 pieces of organic cotton knit fabric from Harmony Art. The two prints are fat quarters and the solids are a full metre each. The colors are my favourites! And the little piece of white with text looks like a word search with words like Mom, Dad, family, and love in orange and the other letters in green. It's very cool! The blogging world is filled with generous people who are so willing to share.

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-09-26T23:58:00.000-06:00

Philippians 2: 12 "Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed - not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence - continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose."

Do I say "yes" and then do nothing for Him? Do I say "no" to the world but really mean "yes" by my actions and thoughts? Is my "yes" all for Him and for all He offers to me? This week I open my eyes and my life to all that "yes" in Him can be, beginning with the counting of His "yes" gifts.

#3054 - #3086

- warm winds blowing through the nights
- reminder of tropical warmth
- flowers still blooming
- no frost so the squash and tomatoes grow on!
- still more sweetpeas

- hours enjoying Maëlle
- how her smiles brighten a moment for others, especially in the hospital
- pretty little red crocheted hat
- time to spend with those I love
- photo reminders of when our four were little - oh, my!

- harvesting complete!
- bales hauled off and stacked for winter
- smell of earth turned over and now resting
- full grain bins
- beautiful colored leaves

- ducks bobbing and spinning in circles on the waves
- bike rides
- seeing beauty on every side of the path
- sun shining on golden leaves
- amazing sunsets

- only a few empty jars left
- shelves bursting with jars
- daily picking of tomatoes
- digging potatoes
- five boxes of apples picked off our tree

- emails from family
- weekend planning
- book club
- wonderful friends
- celebrating Bob's mom's 85 years of living

- sensing His presence in each day
- a reminder that grace - love - mercy from Him are first in our lives - where are they in my heart?

This Day

2011-09-26T00:25:00.000-06:00

This is the beginning of a new day.

You have been given this day to use as you will.

You can waste it or use it for good.

What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it.

When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever;

in its place is something that you have left behind…

let it be something good. Author Unknown.

Five on Friday

2011-09-24T13:17:00.001-06:00

1. The weather this week has been so gorgeous that I just had to pump up the tires on my bike and go for a ride along the lake yesterday. When I drove home, this is what it looked like going up our road. The leaves have really changed color now and the sun was at that perfect point in the western sky to give a beautiful warm hue to everything.

2. After breaking my glasses nearly three weeks ago, I finally have new ones to wear!

3. Today was the day to make beet relish - it's going to be so good on the deep, dark days of winter.

4. If you are looking for home decor projects that you can sew, the Sew4Home site is amazing!

(photo from Sew4Home)

5. Do you have some apples that need to be taken care of? Then you should try this Apple Pie Filling In A Jar. Naomi gave me some two years ago and it is absolutely delicious! It's still on my to-do list for this year.

(photo from Skip to My Lou.org)

City Chase

2011-09-22T23:34:00.000-06:00

A physiotherapist that I know is part of a team for the National City Chase Championships that are being held in Halifax, Nova Scotia next week. (City Chase is a Canadian race similar to The Amazing Race.) As part of their entry, they had to produce a 45 second youTube video and now have to try to get it viewed by as many people as possible, on as many different devices as possible. It would be awesome if you could support James by taking 45 seconds to watch this on your computer, your laptop, your Smart phone, your iPad, etc. etc.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Lists of 2011 - #38

2011-09-22T10:56:00.009-06:00

Listography #38 - People I'd Like to Meet

1. Jesus

2. Mother Teresa

3. Princess Diana

4. Marie Currie

5. Wayne Gretzky

6. Celine Dion

7. Jack Layton

8. Ann Voskamp

9. Cleopatra

10. Mary, mother of Jesus

Walk With Him Wednesday

2011-09-21T23:11:00.001-06:00

This morning when I slipped out of the house early, just after sunrise to bring in the beets pulled at dark last night, the rising sun was lighting the straw bales, all golden and round. The new day was dawning on a new season and all the goodness of summer was wrapped and rolled and laid down all over the field. Soft circular shapes glowed here and there, signalling to all who looked that the harvest was over and gathered in on this parcel of land.

And I was reminded of all the goodness He wraps and lays down for me, all over my days. Bales of grace, wrapped in eucharisteo, laid in rows of gratitude. The moment was golden as the light reached into my soul and the sounds of geese honking trumpeted my thanks heavenward.

Creating

2011-09-20T22:03:00.000-06:00

Good friends of ours welcomed their first grandson into their lives this summer and on Sunday there was a baby shower for little Ian and his parents. I had seen an idea online at Do It Yourself Divas for a baby rag quilt and thought I should be able to make one like it. So in between the last of my canning, I sewed this sweet little project together.

It ended up being 40" wide and 55" long, a perfect size for a floor or grass playtime quilt. I can see more of these in my future :) I hope it will get used alot!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-09-19T23:46:00.001-06:00

Just simple counting on of the grace, the gratitude, the joy that comes by numbering the gift from Him. There are no other words to describe His love and blessings to me. What peace that brings!

#3028 - #3054

- a place to record the counting
- the peace that sitting and writing them down brings to my soul
- reading her words again
- women, like Sara, who write and encourage others
- trees with yellow leaf coats

- sound of geese honking long into the evening
- big flock gathered in the field to eat a grain supper
- V's forming in the sky
- another sign of autumn
- welcoming a new little boy

- pulling onions and beets from the garden
- knowing that we'll have food for the winter
- apples crunchy from the tree
- full jars, shelves and freezer
- still no frost

- tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes
- smell of earth as the field is worked over
- safety for extended family members
- bright orange marigolds blooming on
- apples ready to pick

- bees buzzing on flowers

- water for washing and rinsing and drinking

- reading to the class

- planning for visits

- Samuel's voice telling me about diggers

- resting in the Saviour's presence and peace

Fall Baking

2011-09-17T23:26:00.000-06:00

I finished the last canning of BC fruit today - hurray!!! I will post some pictures and numbers of my inventory - the shelves are full! I baked two things today using the last few pears and both of them are delicious :) There are still lots of pears available in the stores so I'm going to share the recipes and hope that you can try them too.

Ginger Pear Muffins (from Canadian Living.com)

Ingredients:

2-1/2 cups (625 mL) all purpose flour

1 tsp (5 mL) baking soda

tsp

(5 mL)

ground ginger

1/2

tsp

(2 mL) salt

1/2

tsp

(2 mL) cinnamon

3/4

cup

1/3

cup

(75 mL) vegetable oil

cup

(250 mL) buttermilk

cups

Topping:

1/3

cup

(75 mL)

tsp

(10 mL) butter

1/4

tsp

(1 mL)

ground ginger

Preparation:

In bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, salt and cinnamon.

In separate bowl, whisk brown sugar with oil; whisk in egg and buttermilk. Pour over dry ingredients; sprinkle with pears and stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Spoon into greased or paper-lined muffin cups.

Topping: In bowl, combine brown sugar, butter and ginger; sprinkle over batter. Bake in centre of 350°F (180°C) oven until tops are firm to the touch, about 25 minutes.

Pear, Vanilla Bean and Browned Butter Crumble
(from Better Homes & Gardens.com)

ingredients

1/2
cup all-purpose flour
1/4
cup sliced almonds
1/4
cup packed brown sugar
1/8
teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8
teaspoon ground nutmeg
3
tablespoons butter
1
vanilla bean, split lengthwise
1/2
cup butter
2
tablespoons packed brown sugar
1
tablespoon all-purpose flour
6
medium pears, peeled and chopped
1
tablespoon pear brandy (optional)
Sweetened whipped cream (optional)

directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Butter eight 6 to 8-ounce ramekins; set aside. For streusel mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, almonds, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Using a pastry blender, cut in 3 tablespoons butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
With the tip of a sharp knife, scrape seeds from inside of vanilla bean. Place in a small saucepan. Add the pod halves and 1/2 cup butter. Melt over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low. Continue to cook, without stirring, for 5 to 6 minutes or until butter becomes brown and fragrant. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, pears and pear brandy, if desired. Toss together until well mixed. Remove vanilla pods from butter and discard. Stir browned butter into the pear mixture.
Spoon pear mixture into prepared ramekins. Sprinkle with streusel mixture.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Serve warm with whipped cream, if desired.
Note: I didn't have a vanilla bean so I just added 2 tsps. of vanilla after the butter had browned. I'm sure the flavour would be even better with the real beans. I used a casserole dish rather than ramekins.

Five on Friday

2011-09-16T22:54:00.000-06:00

1. Tomato Salsa

2. Roasted Tomatoes

3. Canned Tomatoes

4. Tomato Sauce

5. And in other news - - - Bob had a very good week combining, finishing up all the barley! Now there's still a little bit of oats to do and then we will be done. the. grain. harvesting.

Lists of 2011 - #37

2011-09-15T20:32:00.000-06:00

Listography #37 - More Things I Love (continuing on from June 2 - #22)

1. Smiles, hugs and kisses from my children and grandchildren

2. Sweetpeas in vases

3. Autumn colors just beginning to show

4. Picking fresh produce and eating it within minutes

5. The thought of apple pies in the freezer

6. Ripening pumpkins and squash

7. Corn on the cob, dripping with butter

8. Peaches and cream with brown sugar

9. Jars full of fruit and vegetables, lining the shelves

10. Beets, in all their red glory

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T22:59:00.000-06:00

September on the Farm

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-09-14T00:58:00.001-06:00

Some days the happy and the hard get all mixed up and cause me to wander in the desert of 'self' instead of walking and leaning on the One who is bigger and better than everything. Living in faith is a daily - no, sometimes it's a minute by minute - calling back to Eucharisteo and grace. I marvel at my own inadequate attempts to go it alone, thinking I can figure it out and handle life in my own ways. That quite simply just doesn't happen and I am so thankful when I give the burdens back to Him and rest in unfailing hope and promises.

When I pause to list the gifts, my heart lifts and my eyes are opened again to how incredibly blessed I am!

#2995 - #3028

- fresh peach slices right off the stone
- smooth pears, skin peeled off
- apricot syrup
- butter melting on corn on the cob
- aroma of dill pickle brine wafting through the house

- God's incredible patience with me
- knowing that Jesus walks right beside me, through all of it
- prayer over the telephone wire
- peace that floods my soul
- that my God is quick to forgive and welcome silly me back into His arms

- surprising the grandchildren
- sleepovers at the farm
- pizza picnic in the field
- big smiles that they get to ride with Grampa in the combine
- all the questions that get asked

- birthday candles lit and relit so everyone could have a turn
- little boys and their special days
- great-grandmothers lovin' on babies
- my parents' gift of hospitality
- memories of my grandparents

- my dad with another generation in the fields
- him showing them how to shell wheat

- and her trying to do it just like he did

- camera repairs

- reading stories together

- Psalm 23

- sweet peas in the van cupholder

- little voices singing while driving

- steady progress on work

- days of subbing booked for the future

- interesting books (Pope Joan - a wonderful read)

- leaves beginning to change color

- autumn arriving

9 / 11

2011-09-11T21:15:00.000-06:00

I remember driving home from my friend's house that morning, just after 7 a.m. We had gone for an early walk before each heading to our separate teaching jobs and as I drove around the corner, there was a news bulletin with details of the first plane hitting the first tower. By the time I got to school an hour later, there were more grim details and the TV was set up in the library where high school students and staff gathered to watch the news all day long. That continued for most of the week as we tried to come to grips with what had happened and why. Our world was changed in a huge way.

It seems that the struggle to understand continues and the words hurled back and forth have done little to make things better. Oh, the choices we humans make that take us so far away from God, each other and peace. I pray that each of us works to understand others and work peacefully with those around us while serving God and sharing His love and hope. I am thankful that I love and know a God who is bigger than all of this!

Five on Friday

2011-09-10T00:49:00.001-06:00

Apricot Day

1. Tuesday - 21 jars of apricots, 11 bottles apricot syrup, 10 jars apricot salsa

2. Wednesday - 14 jars tomatoes, 10 jars tomato salsa,

3. Thursday - 7 jars plums, 5 lbs. blueberries frozen, 21 jars peaches, 8 cups plum pieces frozen

4. Friday - 9 jars peaches, 14 jars tomatoes

5. Saturday - the marathon continues with 48 cobs of corn and pears waiting for attention.

I think perhaps my eyes were bigger than my hands - but the shelves are filling up and the boxes are emptying slowly!

Lists of 2011 - #36

2011-09-08T18:34:00.000-06:00

Listography #36 - Things I Cannot Live Without

1. A camera and photographs

2. Fresh fruit and vegetables

3. A telephone - for staying in touch with others (not that I really love to be on the phone)

4. Chai lattes

5. A sewing machine

6. Running water

7. Appliances like the fridge, dishwasher and washing machine

8. Blooming flowers

9. Cheese (in all forms)

10. Books, any books - for reading and writing and savouring

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T17:28:00.000-06:00

First day of kindergarten!

Gratitude Gifts Today

2011-09-05T23:19:00.001-06:00

It's been another week filled with blessings - bounty from gardens and orchards, bounty in relationships and love, bounty in God's protection and leading, bounty in seeing God's creation and His love in those around me. There has been news of illness and sadness, some hard conversations and some unexpected twists in the path. But all, all is grace, as Ann would say - and as I agree!

#2965 - #2995

- enough cucumbers to make three jars of pickles
- pea plants that keep producing
- finding potatoes deep in the ground
- pink zinnias
- watching my Dad reach high to cut sweetpeas for me

- the wonderful fragrance of those sweetpeas
- cuddling Maëlle
- hearing her coo and squeal
- beautiful baby smiles
- pudgy baby legs

- amazing roads cut through mountains
- time with my daughters - and missing the one that is far away
- seeing our children's dreams become reality, one piece at a time
- sharing apples from our trees
- heartfelt prayers spoken with new friends

- beautiful peaches and pears hanging on trees
- farmers who grow bountiful crops, on vines and trees and stalks
- signs hanging from trees in front yards
- organic apricots
- straight rows marching across the hills

- a reliable vehicle, loaded with boxes of fruit
- safety while travelling
- smooth roads that wind gently along lakes
- lofty mountains with white tops
- new clothes for their first day of kindergarten

- little boy opening presents
- celebrating three years of living
- big sister's kindness and her help to make his day special
- reading in my Bible and then seeing the very same words in an online post
- that God provides so much good in so many ways

2011-09-04T00:56:00.000-06:00

It's time to use that wonderful journaling idea that Marta at the dear diary stories, shared with me via her little diaries. Thanks again, M!!

Today

September 3, 2011

I love the smell

of fresh fruit, all enclosed in the van,

which is loaded with 4 layers of boxes.

I love the sound

of a passionate Hungarian farmer

as he describes with pride,

the trees and fruit he grows.

I love the taste

of juicy orange-red nectarines,

ripened right on the tree,

dripping down my chin.

I love the sight

of perfect orbs of fruit,

pears and peaches and plums,

hanging full on green branches.

I love the feel

of cool, purple plums,

layers deep in the field crates,

as we piled them into our boxes.