Just following Jesus in my real life...

Trust…

2012-02-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

Delay after delay, but finally my daughter, son-in-law and grandbabies have a departure date to leave for Ghana.

They will be leaving March 20th.

My youngest daughter is going on a short missions trip to Cyprus and Israel at the same time.

(Have you read the current news about Greece and Israel? Oh my.)

In the meanwhile, on the home front, all county approval for our church building project has finally come through after months and months of resistance, so now we are praying in the funds to complete our new sanctuary.

Trusting God…it always comes back to that most basic issue.

When it involves my children and grandbabies that’s when it’s hardest.

But I choose trust over fear.

I have to.

Once again, right now, I place them all in His hands, entrusting them into His care.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Friday’s Favs…blooming hyacinths and chamber candlesticks

2012-02-16T14:12:00.001-08:00

They make me smile big,

these hyacinth bulbs that were in the clearance bin,

now blooming on my kitchen windowsill.

This is the first time I ever tried to “force” bulbs indoors.

It surely won’t be the last though.

Do little things like blooming bulbs in vintage custard cups make you smile too?

I always notice the little things.

Notice being a nicer way to say it than, “I obsess about.”

I watched the 1990’s version of “Little Women” the other night.

I love the March home in that movie.

In one scene, Marmie is lighting each of the girl’s chamber candlesticks as they head upstairs to bed.

Chamber candlesticks are the current thing I’ve been “noticing”.

This vintage old rusty one came home with me a while back.

Then I found this one.

For about the price of a coffee at Starbucks, I bought it.

It wasn’t old, rustic or rusty, but was sturdy, heavy, shiny brass.

When I got it home, I sprayed it with a little brushed nickel spray paint,

then dry brushed it with some glossy black craft paint.

I wiped off the black with a damp paper towel, dry brushing more on and wiping it off until I got the look I wanted, which was less shiny, newer, brass and more old and pewter-like.

I think I’m lovin’ it!

What’s a little thing that’s caught your eye lately?

HAPPY, HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Valentine’s table, chocolate fudge cakes and white dishes…

2012-02-14T22:21:00.001-08:00

With a little strategic planning,

the Hubs and I managed to have a nice Valentine’s dinner for two while youngest granddaughter,

(that we are babysitting while her mama and daddy have a Valentine getaway),

sat in her little bouncy seat looking on,

(and pooping her pants, requiring giving her a full bath before we had our dessert).

The table was set simply for the two of us.

A few years ago I decided to finally let go of my indestructible Pfaltzgraff Yorktown dishes,

that I had for years and years.

I wanted some simple white dishes for everyday.

I wanted white Fiestaware, but it was a bit more than I could afford at the time.

One day, I happened upon these Thomson Pottery dishes, (sphere pattern),

at Ross for under $50 for twelve place settings.

I love them!

They are great for everyday, but look great for special occasions too.

I’ve had no problems at all with them chipping or breaking.

I’ve seen other Thomson dinnerware at places like Ross, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Homegoods.

Our Valentine’s dessert was Chocolate Fudge Cakes with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.

Yummmy! A great special occasion dessert, but easy to make.

(excuse the poor evening photos)

All in all, it was a great Valentine’s Day,

poopy diapers and all.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2012-02-14T14:51:00.001-08:00

The Hubs and I are celebrating Valentine’s Day at home this year.

We are taking care of our sweet youngest granddaughter while her mama and daddy have a romantic getaway.

The other Papa and Nana are watching her older sister, (who turns 3 tomorrow!).

Tonight I’m making the Hubs a special dinner of:

sea scallops in a wine/butter sauce that is full of garlic, scallions and mushrooms
wild rice
mixed green salad
oven roasted asparagus
and a decadent dessert that involves this…

…dark chocolate.

The recipe is on my “Yummm” Pinterest board.

I’ll let you know how it turns out tomorrow.

In the meanwhile, I hope you’re having a love filled day today

with a little chocolate thrown in for good measure.

Still following,

Elizabeth

My Memories Software Giveaway winner!

2012-02-13T14:46:00.001-08:00

And the winner of the My Memories software is comment number four-eroomje!

Congratulations! You’re going to love it!

Please click on my contact link above and email me your contact information.

For those of you who didn’t win,

remember you can still get a discount on the software by using the coupon code found in this post.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Highs and lows…

2012-02-12T23:07:00.001-08:00

Sometimes being in the ministry is like riding the world’s craziest roller coaster.

It’s full of highs and lows.

This has been one of those weeks.

(I think I have pastor’s wife whiplash.)

From the lows of a beloved member receiving a terminal diagnosis,

and walking with others who are going through a time of deep personal crisis,

to the highs of celebrating the one year anniversary of our church’s church plant,

(my son-in-law and daughter’s church),

and our sweet youngest granddaughter’s baby dedication.

But God is good all the time,

and there is much to thank Him for,

in the highs and even in the lows.

***********

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1633-#1654

3 gifts found outside

-blue sky, cold breezes

-the neighbor all bundled up and weeding her flowerbed

-signs that spring is on the way

3 gifts red

-my café au lait bowl

-granddaughter’s rosy cheeks

-an apple shared

a gift broken

-front door knob broke off (!) when granddaughter and I came back from an outing together,

but thank God I had accidently left another door unlocked

a gift fixed

-new door knob bought and put in by the Hubs

a gift thrifted

-sweet little Goodwill custard cup with hyacinth blooming inside

3 gifts that were surprises-unexpected grace!

-fresh blueberry pancakes made by the Hubs

-discovering a fun, new place to go for lunch

-“The Way”, a movie we happened upon On Demand that we really enjoyed

3 times you heard laughter today

-silly granddaughter

-talking to my daughter in Missouri about silly granddaughter

-laughing about myself with a blog friend

3 gifts found in working

-a tidied up pantry

-a stack of freshly ironed napkins and placemats

-the smell of Murphy’s oil soap after the wood floor is mopped

3 hard eucharisteos

-visiting the dear one with cancer

-two prodigal spiritual daughters in my thoughts and prayers today

-my oldest sister’s birthday today, (she’s been in heaven three years now)

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Everlasting love…

2012-02-11T09:36:00.001-08:00

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day this coming week,

I’m well aware of the fact that for many this day is a hurtful reminder of what they lack.

Whether you have never been married, are divorced,

or are in a marriage that lacks the romance and passion and

true intimacy that your heart longs for,

there is a Love greater than all others available for you.

God loves you fiercely, passionately, jealously, overwhelmingly, wholeheartedly, unselfishly, unreservedly,

forever,

and

ever

and

ever.

He’s drawing you to Himself right now.

Won’t you say yes to His love?

Still following,

Elizabeth

Monday I will draw a winner for free My Memories scrapbooking software.

Don’t miss out! Click on this post to enter.

Friday’s Favs…Surviving and thriving with an itty, bitty kitchen

2012-02-09T11:00:00.001-08:00

In blogland we tend to show only the best parts of ourselves and our homes.

I’ve told you before that my house is small and that I have a small kitchen.

It’s true, and here’s proof!

{The counter space to the left side of my stove is only 14” wide}

I have a small galley style kitchen.

The floor space is only 8 feet by 4 1/4 feet.

{The counter between the stove and the refrigerator is 15” wide.}

In my kitchen, I only have 6 drawers, 4 single width cupboards and two double width cupboards.

{On the sink side of the room, this counter is 30” wide.}

{The counter to the right of the sink is about 34” wide.}

Yet, even with my itty, bitty kitchen, I love to cook and to entertain.

Here are some ways I make it work.

A place for everything, and everything in it’s place.

I’m a stickler for keeping everything in a place that makes sense for how I use my kitchen,

and for keeping my cupboards and drawers neat.

For example, the single cupboard above the coffee maker holds all of our mugs.

I also use all possible storage place.

The drawer that my stove has beneath the oven holds all baking sheets, cake and muffin tins.

Utilize pantry space to the maximum and keep it organized.

Looking from the dining room into the kitchen you see my pantry door.

In this post you can see how I organized my pantry.

Utilizing even the wall space, I was able to neatly store my pots and pans in a convenient way.

Don’t keep things you use only in once in a while in the kitchen.

In the dining room I have a cabinet that stores all my “not everyday” dishes.

In the garage I have one set of metal shelves with doors.

There I keep extra canned goods, as well as things I use only infrequently such as my turkey roasting pans, my large crock pot, and special occasion serving pieces.

Use your table.

With such a small amount of counter space I used to struggle when I wanted to roll out dough for pies, cookies, etc.

Finally, I got smart and began to use my dining table.

It’s right there, just two or three steps from my kitchen.

It’s six feet of gorgeous wood work space.

{In this photo from Christmas you can see my dining table as well as my dish cabinet where all of my “not everyday” dishes are kept.}

It’s all too easy to wish for what we don’t have as we ooh and ahh over what we see on other’s blogs or pinterest.

Sure, I’d love a big, farmhouse style kitchen,

but,

I hope this post encourages you to be thankful for what you do have and use it to the fullest!

Happy, Happy Friday, and Have a Blessed Weekend!

Elizabeth

Be sure to click over to this post and leave a comment for a chance to win free My Memories Software!

Bind my wandering heart to Yours…

2012-02-08T10:47:00.001-08:00

I don’t know why He puts up with me

When what I offer Him is such shallow love

Such a distracted heart

I say and sing the words

“I am Yours! I am Yours!”

But He knows the truth

about the other lover

The idol of self with its constant refrain of

“I think…

I feel…

I want…”

I’m ashamed of it

I wear a mask to hide it

I don’t want to admit it

I’m in love with me

Even in prayer

While it sounds right

Underneath it all

I want people and situations and circumstances to be made right

So the apple cart of my comfortable, peaceful life isn’t upset

I’m trying something new

or maybe old

But new to me

Three times a day my phone alarm goes off and I pray

“Help me to love You with all of my heart and mind and soul and strength.”

“Captivate my wandering heart with Your love.”

“Crowd out sin and self with Your Presence.”

“Help me to love others as I love myself.”

Three times a day I admit my helplessness

To even obey in this most basic thing

My inability to do the First Thing

To do the One Thing

To love God the way He deserves

Even in this

Without Him

I can do nothing

But with Him

All things are possible

Still following,

Elizabeth

Spreading the love…

2012-02-07T22:33:00.001-08:00

Little felt hearts stitched together with baker’s twine are tucked here and there around the house.

A simple little banner made with twine, wrapping paper and stenciled letters hangs from the shelf over the couch.

Vintage valentines hang from my drying rack photo gallery.

Only a week until Valentine’s day!

Do you have any special plans with the one you love?

This year, the Hubs and I are staying home and watching our newest little granddaughter

so her mama and daddy can have a little getaway.

The other Papa and Nana are watching older sister, (who turns 3 the day after Valentine’s Day!).

Evidently, Mama and Daddy think us grandparents will have it easier if we use

the old “divide and conquer” strategy.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Click over to this post to enter my giveaway for free My Memories scrapbooking software!

Sweet treats…

2012-02-07T09:49:00.001-08:00

It takes a Nana to spend almost $5 on some heart shaped marshmallows,

just because her almost 3 year old granddaughter thinks marshmallows are the ultimate in sweet treats.

It takes a blogger and photography lover to do a whole photo shoot and blog post

about heart shaped marshmallows.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Enter my giveaway for free My Memories software by clicking over to this post.

86,400 seconds…

2012-02-05T21:01:00.001-08:00

“God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.

Have you used one to say "thank you?"

~William A. Ward

*********

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1612-#1632-

3 things seen new-

-my to-do list seems doable and things get checked off as I ask God to order my day and time

-my little home, as I’ve learned to look at it with gratitude

-my winter backyard

a gift found on a paper-

-my prayer scriptures

a gift found in a person-

-youngest daughter’s supportive friends

a gift found in a picture-

-youngest granddaughter’s first smiles caught on camera

a gift found at 11:30-

-with my daughter at a check-up for our two youngest granddaughters-both healthy and growing

a gift found at 2:30-

-a great time of prayer

a gift found at 6:30-

-a faithful friend helping me set up for Bible study

3 things overheard today, all gifts-

-listening to one of the ladies from church laughing and joking, and marveling at how God has set her free

-two mamas talking together about how God is answering prayer for their sons, college roommates

-my husband laughing and joking with the worship team before practice

3 gifts found in writing-

-Joyce Meyer’s daily devotional phone app.

-notes written in the margin of my Bible, things God has spoken to me and taught me through His Word

-my grandson’s funny drawings

3 gifts found when bent down-

-the light falling golden on the wood grain when I’m mopping up the floor

-in baskets on low shelves in the spare room,

the same toys our girls played with now being played with by our granddaughter

-putting away my favorite boots in their box and shoving them under the bed

one gift stitched-

-felt Valentine hearts hanging with embroidered table runners

one gift hammered-

-our fireplace mantel made by one of the men in our church

one gift woven-

afghan made by Mama

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Remember to click over to this post to enter my giveaway for free scrapbooking software from My Memories.

Restore me to life again…

2012-02-04T09:31:00.001-08:00

This week so many people I love and care about are going through a difficult time.

loss of a loved one…

a difficult waiting season…

hope deferred…

hardship…

It seems many in the blogging community are hurting too.

Today I wanted to post a word of hope.

God sees you.

God hears you.

He won’t allow you to suffer one drop more hardship than you can endure,

or one drop more than He can use to work for good in you in the end.

He loves you,

even though right now you can’t see it,

can’t feel it.

Down deep in you,

underneath the despair,

the hurt,

the confusion,

the anger,

something amazing is growing.

There,

in the Strong Place within,

your spirit,

the dwelling place of His Spirit,

He is carefully tending and watching over

the growth of something amazing.

He’s watering it with His own tears.

He knows you don’t understand why He’s allowing these difficulties.

He knows the enemy is using the situation to accuse Him,

to convince you He’s not good,

to convince you He doesn’t love you,

to convince you to give up.

But,

not one minute too soon,

not one minute too late,

He’s going to reach down and lift you up.

That’s a promise…

His promise.

Still following,

Elizabeth

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Friday’s Favs…lemon cupcakes and Costco cake stands

2012-02-02T09:53:00.001-08:00

Hypothetically speaking, if you’re in Costco buying big bags of frozen chicken breast

and twin packs of fat free milk…

and you happen to see a box with two, ruffle-y, milk glass-like, vintage-looking cake plates,

(a medium one and a large one)…

and you can stack them or use them separately…

hypothetically speaking, of course, is it wrong to use $19.99 out of your Dave Ramsey grocery money envelope…

on something that makes your groceries look oh, so, pretty?

(Lemon Cupcake recipe from Mom’s Big Book of Baking)

HAPPY, HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Be sure to click over to this post and leave a comment for a chance to win free My Memories Software!

When he’s just not there for you…

2012-02-01T07:48:00.001-08:00

We were married at the ripe old age of nineteen, which wasn’t all that uncommon back in the olden days…you know, the seventies. (The nineteen seventies that is.) Hubby went to college in the mornings, worked the evening shift at a factory, and was the church janitor and volunteer youth leader on the weekends. At the ripe old age of twenty I was a stay at home mama with a wee little brown eyed girl who had the biggest dimples you ever saw. We had one car. We lived in a city located between the town where the college was, and the town where the church we attended was. I had no car, and no friends who lived anywhere near by. Day after day, night after night it was just the baby and me. An exciting outing was putting the baby in a stroller and walking down to the corner gas station for a “Tab”. ( That was a Diet Coke type drink popular in the olden days.) I was lonely. I was cry yourself to sleep lonely. In all my 20 year old wisdom, I decided it was his fault. Once you got married you were never supposed to be lonely, right? Your spouse was responsible to meet all of your needs, right? So, I told hubby that we needed to go to our minister for counseling. I was looking forward to the pastor straightening that man of mine out.

On the day of our appointment, we sat in front of the pastor’s desk. I was all decked out in my indignant self-righteousness. When the pastor turned to me and asked me what I thought was wrong with us, I emphatically, accusatorially, said, “He is not meeting my needs. Blah, blah, blah, whine, whine, whine.”
The pastor didn’t turn and correct my weary, overworked husband. To my surprise, he dared to correct me. It changed my life. It saved my life. He said, “If another human being could meet all of your needs, then you wouldn’t need God. That person would then become god to you. God will never let another person meet all of your needs. You need to use this opportunity to really get to know God, and let Him meet your needs.”

Not that I didn’t occasionally still have pity parties after that, but I began a journey. I began to really seek to know God. While hubby was at school, I made a nice meal for us to have before he headed off to his job. After he left for work, I would listen to Christian teaching on the radio, I would read and study my Bible, I would talk to God, I would sing, worship and pray as I fed or rocked the baby. I sought the Lord and He heard me. He began to fill me up as I went to Him with my loneliness. Month after month went by and that was my routine. While my husband was at work, I was mama, laundress, housekeeper, and God seeker.

One Sunday, a young couple began to attend church, with a cute little baby girl, just a couple of months younger than our baby. The husband was also a student by day, and worked evenings like my hubby. His wife and I became the best of friends. Many evenings, while our husbands were at work, I would go to her house or she would come to mine. Our babies became toddlers, and were as inseparable as siblings. To this day, I believe God sent me a wonderful friend as an answer to prayer. But first, He taught me the most important life lesson ever…nothing and no one can meet my needs, fill my emptiness, silence my loneliness, love me, like He can.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Remember to leave a comment on this post to enter the giveaway

for free My Memories software.

A touch of romance…

2012-01-31T16:40:00.001-08:00

My tastes in home décor definitely lean more towards rustic, homespun, farmhouse than to lacy, frilly, Victorian.

Likewise, my taste in clothes has never been too lacy or frilly.

I lean more towards classic styles with a little country edge now and then.

Maybe it’s the time of year, but when it came time for me to do some long neglected clothes shopping,

I found myself craving creamy, flowy, lacy tops to wear over dress pants or jeans.

Similarly, when it came time to add a touch of Valentine’s to my décor,

I craved something softer and more subtle this year as well.

Soft, blush colored roses add a touch of romance.

(Gotta love Trader Joe’s and their 4.99 flowers!)

Of course I have some rustic touches too.

Felt hearts that I stuffed with a little cotton and stitched simply together with baker’s twine

hang from a branch over my shabby, gray window.

A larger felt heart embroidered with baker’s twine hangs on my drying rack photo gallery.

I’m feeling ready for Valentine’s Day…are you?

Elizabeth

Remember to leave a comment on this post to enter my giveaway for some great scrapbooking software!

My Memories Software Giveaway!

2012-01-30T15:31:00.001-08:00

I was contacted by a wonderful representative from the company, My Memories,

and asked if I wanted to try a free copy of their My Memories Suite software

and also have a free copy to giveaway to one of my followers!

I looked at their product and quickly said yes!

I am just beginning to scratch the surface of the fun and creative things I can do with this great software.

Here’s an album cover I created myself using My Memory Suite…

Here’s an album cover using one of My Memory Suite’s premade album templates…

Here’s what you need to do to enter for a free copy of this great software!

First, become a follower of my blog, click on over to My Memories and take a look around,

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Become a follower of My Memories blog:

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STMMMS61263

As a special for all of my readers, here is a Share the Memories coupon code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store – a $20 value!

I will be announcing the winner of this giveaway two weeks from today.

I hope YOU win!

Elizabeth

Growing gratitude…

2012-01-29T18:54:00.001-08:00

I’ve had people ask me questions about gathering my gratitudes,

counting my thanks.

Doesn’t it feel artificial, phony, forced?

My response, yes and no.

It is, after all, totally against my fleshly nature,

the part of me that wants to mumble, grumble, and complain my way through life.

But sometimes you can fool nature,like forcing spring bulbs to grow before spring.

Put them in the right atmosphere, give them the right things, and they bloom out of season.

And this counting, it’s creating the atmosphere, feeding the mind the right things, (the lovely, true, good things),

and before you know it, totally against that old nature, you’re miraculously growing gratitude.

It’s a beautiful thing.

*********

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1588-#1611

one grace wrinkled-

the Hubs and I growing older

one grace smoothed-

ironing the stack of cloth napkins and going back in my memory to when Mama taught me to iron

by letting me iron Daddy’s handkerchiefs

one grace unfolded-

an encouraging card in the mail

3 gifts found in Christ-

love

forgiveness

righteousness

3 things blue-

the Hub’s blue eyes

blueberries on my granola and yogurt

blue sky peeking out between the clouds on a rainy day

one grace borrowed-

the book Ruthless Trust by Brennan Manning

one grace found-

my love of writing, photography, creating

one grace inherited-

quilts from Mama and Nana

a gift before 9a.m.-

waking up in the wee hours knowing I’m supposed to pray for a specific need

a gift before noon-

winter sun making the most beautiful light in the dining room

a gift after dark-

sweet sleep in a warm house in a cozy bed

3 gifts that might have never been-

our marriage, because, by God’s grace, we didn’t quit during the tough times

our church, because, by God’s grace, we didn’t quit during the tough times

our home, a miracle of God’s provision

3 graces found in my friends-

sense of humor

giving

loyal

a song heard-

Walk in the Promise

a soft word-

a gentleman at church sharing about the Friend who sticks closer than a brother

where you saw light-

Holy Spirit revelation, insight, understanding into something in the Word

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

He’s got it all in control…

2012-01-28T09:38:00.001-08:00

Isn’t this such a comfort?

The Lord directs our steps.

He delights in the details of our lives.

God, the Creator of the heavens and the earth,

is watchful over every one of our steps, over the tiniest details of our life.

Why then, am I ever fretful or worried about the future?

It’s in His hands, He’s got it all in control…

every step, every detail.

Thank You, Lord!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Friday’s Favs…New “cubby” shelf and another shelf makeover

2012-01-26T10:19:00.001-08:00

Remember this Goodwill shelf that I spruced up with a little Dollar Tree contact paper?

For Christmas I was given a gift card to Camas Antiques.

One of the things I bought with it was this little gray shelf.

I had it in my mind to sit it on top of the black shelf.

I wasn’t that happy with how it looked there once I got it home,

but I just left it there until I could figure out something different to do with it.

And after a few days I knew what I wanted to do…

I took one of the little gray shelves to Home Depot and had them computer match the paint color,

and painted the black shelf to match it!

The gray still looks great with the toile-like contact paper and is so much more my style than the black ever was.

It almost looks like they are meant to go together.

I also bought this little ironstone bowl and these six silver spoons with our initial on them with my gift card.

I painted the frames of my ink and pen drawings to match the shelves as well.

I’m lovin’ it!

HAPPY, HAPPY FRIDAY and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Didn’t all the love start with Him…

2012-01-25T09:27:00.001-08:00

He knew it was her right away

That scream that pierced the quiet darkness of the woods

We had taken the young couples in our church tent camping

After laughter and s’mores around the campfire

We were finally all asleep in our tents

When a woman’s terrified scream woke us all up

The men all scrambled to get their shoes on, running to help her

It was the cry of someone in danger, someone being hurt

My Hubs almost ripped the tent apart getting out

And I sat there with heart pounding, disoriented

Not even quite sure which direction the scream had come from

But Daddy knew, He knew it was his girl, our daughter

And he ran right to her tent

It was a nightmare, night terror

Her husband was trying to wake her up, to comfort her

When the Hubs came back to our tent, we just lay there

Not able to block out the memory of what her terrified scream sounded like

Me, I couldn’t believe he knew it was her

Grown up and gone from our house for several years

But Daddy knew it was his girl

Me, I’m close and familiar with Jesus

Even Holy Spirit, because I know He lives in me

But Father, Daddy, Abba was invisible

A Foggy Mystery, a Loving Stranger

Like my own Daddy, in the years we grew apart after he left us

But lately, there’s a longing in my heart to know Him

Father God, the One Who loved me so much He gave

He gave His Only Son

So didn’t all the love start with Him

Didn’t all the love start with Daddy, with Abba

And out of all the billions of people living and that have ever lived

Doesn’t He know my scream, my cries

And doesn’t He run to rescue me

And won’t I always be His little girl no matter how old I am

I don’t want Him to just be a Foggy Mystery, a Loving Stranger

I want to know my Father

so I’m following the love back to the Source

Still following,

Elizabeth

Homemade Sea Salt Caramels…

2012-01-24T17:33:00.001-08:00

On our ~~slush~~ snow day last week I just had to make something yummy

because that’s what you do when you’re ~~slushed~~ snowed in.

I’ve been wanting to make homemade sea salt caramels for a long time.

They are fairly easy to make

and oh, so delicious!

They are soft, buttery and melt in your mouth,

with just a wee bit of saltiness to compliment the sweet.

After the Hubs and I sampled a couple pieces,

I gave the rest away

to save us from ourselves.

Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Soft Sea Salt Caramels

Ingredients:

1 cup butter

1 lb. brown sugar (2 1/2 cups)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 cup light corn syrup

1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

Butter 9x13 pan

In 3-4 quart saucepan melt butter.

Add sugar and salt and stir thoroughly.

Add in corn syrup and condensed milk.

Stir constantly over medium heat until temperature reaches 245 degrees on a candy thermometer. (12-15 minutes)

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Pour into prepared 9x13 pan.

When mixture has cooled to just warm, sprinkle lightly with sea salt.

When completely cool cut into squares.

(These caramels are very, very soft if they get too warm, so I keep them refrigerated.)

Still following,

Elizabeth

On a gray, rainy, Oregon afternoon…

2012-01-23T20:13:00.001-08:00

Once upon a time, on a gray, rainy, Oregon afternoon…

a woman went to Walmart for some exciting necessities,

like paper towels,

and laundry bleach…

but she ended up meandering through the garden center

to see if there were any signs of spring in there…

and there she found a cast off bag of clearance sale fall bulbs,

hyacinths, that had begun to sprout…

so she took them home and planted them willy nilly

in odd and interesting containers…

and she smiled…

on a gray, rainy, Oregon afternoon.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Joining the Joy Dare…

2012-01-22T21:16:00.001-08:00

I’ve been gathering gratitude since the fall of 2009.

I’ve counted into the fifteen hundreds.

But Ann has challenged us to gather a thousand thanks in 2012.

She’s given us prompts for each day of the month, like clues of where to look for things to give thanks for.

I’m late to accepting the challenge to join the “Joy Dare”,

so my list this week is long as I catch up!

**********

3 things about myself that I’m thankful for…

my faith

my nurturing heart

my creativity

a gift outside…

a light dusting of snow

a gift inside…

6 silver spoons

a gift on a plate…

blueberry muffins and soft boiled eggs

three lines overheard that were graces…

I love you

You’re beautiful

Thank you

gifts old, new, and blue…

old ironstone bowl

new Irish linen towel

blue eyed granddaughter

something you’re reading…

Culture of Honor

something you’re making…

Felt Valentine hearts

something you’re seeing…

God ordering our steps and our children’s steps

one thing in your bag-

new reading glasses

one thing in your fridge-

grapefruit and oranges

one thing in your heart-

hope

3 graces from people I love-

forgiveness

acts of service

encouragement

light that caught me-

winter sun on the wood floor

a reflection that surprised me-

my 54 year old self – hair in pony tail, glasses instead of contacts, exercise clothes on

a shadow that fell lovely-

granddaughter and I holding hands on our walk

a gift in my hand-

my gratitude journal

a gift I walked by-

my neighborhood

a gift I sat with-

my Hubs on a date to the movies

a gift that’s sour-

lemon in my tea

a gift that’s sweet-

baked sweet potato with brown sugar and cinnamon

a gift that’s just right-

the first cup of hot coffee in the morning

3 yellow things that strike you as fresh mercy

sweet yellow butter

butter yellow walls in the bedroom at our house that the grandkids call theirs

yellow primrose peeking up through the snow

something above me-

the roof over our head

something below me-

the sound of the Hubs downstairs making the coffee while I’m still snuggled warmly in bed

something beside me-

my “Jesus Date” bag

3 sounds I hear-

the hum of my computer

the garbage truck

the sounds of our neighborhood waking up to the new day

3 ways I’ve glimpsed the startling grace of God-

how He still is changing us, delivering us, healing us, day by day

how He is building His church

His work at Hope City

one thing I wore-

the necklace my sister had made for me from my Mama’s ring

one thing I gave away-

tithe and offering

one thing I shared-

bites of the Hub’s calzone on our date

3 ways I witnessed happiness today-

snow falling

the Hubs help with the grocery shopping

snuggling littlest granddaughter with her fuzzy, wuzzy hair

one gift that made me laugh-

my silly granddaughter

one gift that made me pray-

details that still need to come together for our kids to leave for Ghana

one gift that made me quiet-

granddaughter not feeling well, so she just wanted to lay next to me on the couch

3 gifts from God’s Word-

Deuteronomy 31:78 He will not fail me, let me go, or forsake me

Psalm 102:28 our descendants will thrive in His presence

Colossians 2:7 the roots of my being firmly and deeply planted in Him

a grace in the kitchen-

my favorite red soup pot filled with homemade stew

a grace in the weather-

enough snow for granddaughter to made a snow angel and a wee little snowman

a grace that might never have been-

our grandchildren

3 gifts I saw only when I got up close-

the beauty in the shell of a brown egg

the beauty of God’s heart when I draw near to Him

snowflakes

one thing in the sky-

sunbreaks after a very, very rainy week

one thing from my memory-

our three little girls that are now three beautiful women of God

one thing that’s ugly beautiful-

rusty old candlestick

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

He lightens my darkness…

2012-01-21T15:46:00.001-08:00

Still following,

Elizabeth

Friday’s Favs…Contentment

2012-01-19T13:48:00.001-08:00

After years of parsonage living I dreamed about and prayed for a home of our own.

Thirteen years ago God made a way for us to buy this home.

Nothing fancy or extravagant,

just a 1400 square foot, builder grade home.

I was so happy,

but not many years later I started to dream about and pray about something bigger,

something a little more like the dream home I imagined in my mind.

Blogging and Pinterest can really feed that discontent, seeing so many lovely homes, furniture and décor.

Lately, however,

I’ve put those dreams on the shelf,

left those prayers in God’s hands,

and breathed a deep sigh of contentment and gratitude

for the wee little nest God has given me.

Fresh rosemary grows nestled in an old crock on the bench in our entry.

An antique butter churn sits next to the bench.

My old wooden tool caddy holds a wintery mix of pinecones and seed pods.

It sits on my easy, no sew homemade burlap table runner.

The dining room wall has a chalkboard with my “theme verse” for this year written on it.

A little cloche holds a bird nest my grandson found for me.

The nest flew home from South Carolina in my suitcase and now holds a little Dollar Tree Bird.

A cute wooden caddy perched on top of the dish cabinet holds dishes and vintage treasures.

Wire baskets hang in a handy spot to be used to hold muffins or bread at the dinner table.

A little corner of the kitchen countertop holds some of my favorite things.

Happy, Happy Friday Everyone and Have a Blessed Weekend!

Elizabeth

Dangerous prayers…

2012-01-18T09:17:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I think I’m not doing it right

Not doing enough

When it comes to prayer

So I get out my prayer notebook

The three ring binder of lists and tools

And I pray the lists

But it feels so

Lifeless

I pray that He breathes on those prayers

And gives them resurrection power

So I pray what’s in my heart

I pray for who comes to my mind

I pray Holy Spirit guides me

How to pray

What to pray

Who to pray for

These heart prayers

They are the ones I see visible answers to

Sometimes costly answers

When I prayed that our three little girls

Would not just receive Him as Savior

But serve Him as Lord

And be movers and shakers for His Kingdom

I didn’t know it would mean

One would plant a church in the hardest part of our city

One would be a missionary to Ghana

One would be in ministry at the International House of Prayer

And travel doing kingdom business

And I liked it better when they were all close to Mama

And when I prayed God would do whatever He needed to do

To make us the leaders He wanted us to be

I didn’t know that for ten years

He would test and try everything in our lives

Everything

And we almost didn’t make it

At least that’s what it felt like

But now, we’re in such a better place

Those heart prayers

That come from the deepest place

Without any fancy words

Sometimes no words at all

Just groanings

Those are dangerous prayers

Still following,

Elizabeth

Multi-grain Blueberry Orange Muffins…

2012-01-17T15:47:00.001-08:00

I am a blessed woman.

Every morning the Hubs makes the coffee and brings me a cup in bed.

On our day off, he usually brings me breakfast in bed too.

When our three daughter’s were young, on Saturdays he would bring all four of us breakfast in bed!

Even our little, not quite three year old, granddaughter has had one of Papa’s famous breakfasts in bed.

So, on our day off last week I turned the tables on him and treated him to breakfast in bed.

I made soft boiled eggs and multi-grain blueberry orange muffins.

He loved it, especially the muffins!

Multi-grain Blueberry Orange Muffins

In a mixing bowl whisk together the following dry ingredients to avoid clumps:

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup all purpose flour

1 cup oat bran

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Add the wet ingredients, being careful to not over mix:

2 eggs and 1 egg white lightly beaten

1 Tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 cup light sour cream

3/4 cup milk (I used skim milk)

Add 1 tablespoon orange zest

Gently fold in about 1 cup of blueberries

Fill muffin cups 3/4 full

Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 20-25 minutes

Why not make breakfast for someone you love?

Still following,

Elizabeth

Photo challenge “open”…

2012-01-16T21:38:00.001-08:00

The challenge for Kim Klaussen’s Texture Tuesday this week is the word “open”.

Right away I thought of this photo of an “open” soft boiled egg.

I processed the photo with a layer of Kim’s providence texture on soft light mode, 100% opacity

and a layer of her lookup texture on soft light mode, 100% opacity.

(I made the Hubs soft boiled eggs and multi-grain blueberry orange muffins for breakfast on our day off.

Tomorrow I’ll share the muffin recipe!)

Still following,

Elizabeth

Beauty in every season…

2012-01-15T19:49:00.001-08:00

Every season has its own unique beauty…

Treasure that can only be found in that season, that day, that moment…

If we only have eyes to see…

If we only choose to look.

In every season of life,

seasons of joy, seasons of sorrow, seasons of peace, seasons of trial,

there is beauty.

The laughter and ease of the season of joy,

the consolation and comfort He gives in the season of sorrow,

the calm and serenity of a season of peace,

the treasure He gives in the dark seasons.

If we only have eyes to see…

If we only choose to look…

Beauty, His Beauty,

in every season, every day, every moment.

**********

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

-Sunday, our church, God’s Presence, lives touched

-cold morning, warm fire in the fireplace

-hot coffee

-snuggly afghan crocheted by my Mama

-cleaning out our storage closet and sorting through 35 years of sweet card, letters, and drawings

from the Hubs, our girls, our grandbabies, my Mama

-our sweet granddaughters and grandson

-lovely winter’s day walk

-seeing God working out His plans and purposes in our children’s lives

-cooking and sharing a frittata with the Hubs after a late evening meeting

-Kari Jobe’s song, My Beloved

-fun date day with the Hubs

-an unexpected rebate check

-provision to get some new clothes

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Isaiah 58:11…

2012-01-14T09:58:00.001-08:00

Isn’t this an amazing promise?

It is all too easy to want the promise and not pay any attention to the rest of the chapter.

Isaiah 58 is all about fasting…

God’s kind of fasting…

which is a whole lot less about giving up food,

and a whole lot more about fasting selfish and self-righteous attitudes and actions towards others.

It’s not that hard to give up a meal,

but it’s a lot harder to lay down my life to help someone else gain freedom,

or to meet the needs of the poor by personally getting involved,

or to quit pointing fingers and speaking against others.

I suggest reading Isaiah 58 in the Amplified Bible…

it’s pretty convicting.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Friday’s Favs…when the Christmas decorations are put away, then what?

2012-01-12T10:23:00.001-08:00

I usually have the Christmas décor all put away and the house put back in order before we ring in the New Year.

This year we were out of town until the Friday after New Year’s, so I was later than usual doing that big job.

Of course, I can't leave well enough alone with just taking down the tree and putting the decorations away.

One thing leads to another and before you know it I’m cleaning, rearranging

and fluffing this and that around our little nest.

The fireplace mantel is all decked out in white with a few felt snowflakes mixed in…

(I’m kind of hoping for some snow this year).

The old wooden ladder holds a bucket of baby’s breath

as well as a vintage grain sack and some french linens.

I changed my “drying rack photo display” from Christmas photos,

replacing them with some old black and whites photos of Mama when she was young,

as well as the Hubs and I when we were little.

Candles in some old bottles sit atop the antique library table.

A wooden caddy sits on the vintage trunk that serves as our coffee table.

An old photo of Mama’s grade school class nestles on top of some old books.

The shelf above the couch hold a bit of this and that.

The old blue dresser is still one of my favorite things…

here it holds a wire basket filled with colorful kitchen linens.

Thanks for stopping by my place!

HAPPY, HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Listening prayer…

2012-01-11T08:20:00.001-08:00

Listening

I need to make it a habit

Not rushing through my Bible reading

my prayer list

then rushing on to my next thing to get done

Listening

Quieting my heart and mind

God reveals His secrets to His friends

Jesus tells us whatever the Father tells Him

How much have I missed

by rushing out of His Presence

I need to make it a habit

To be still

To be quiet

To listen

Still following,

Elizabeth

Homemade soy candle, body butter, and salt scrub…

2012-01-10T18:42:00.001-08:00

I received such lovely Christmas presents from my family this year.

I feel very blessed and spoiled!

My second born daughter made and gave me

a peppermint soy candle, some peppermint body butter and some peppermint body scrub, all homemade!

I was so surprised and pleased!

I asked her to share with me how she made them, so I could share with you.

Here are the instructions for the candles in her own words…

I read about making candles online and then figured it out myself. I went to Hobby Lobby and found the 100% natural soy wax flakes, which looked much easier to use than the large bricks of Picton wax. I bought the candle wicks precut with the metal plate on the bottom. I also bought the candle wax boil bag, since I don’t have a double boiler. I didn’t end up using it, because I figured, why not just melt it right into the mason jar, which would act as the barrier between the wax and heat. It was a lot less messy that way!

So this is how I did it:

Need: wax, wick, 2 jars, essential oil or candle scent (I used peppermint oil).

In a small pan, boil about two inches of water.

Fill the jar with wax flakes, and place in boiling water.

Stir wax, and as it starts to melt, add more wax, until the wax is fully melted and fills the jar, leaving an inch space at the top. (Remove the jar from the water each time you add wax.)

Remove jar from heat and add 15-20 drops of essential oil or scent and stir.

Let cool until wax starts to firm at bottom (about 15 minutes). Place wick in wax. It should adhere to the bottom, and stick straight up. If you add your wick too soon, it will just fall over.

Let wax cool all the way. This will take a few hours.

You will notice that the wax has caved in a little near the wick.

Take your second jar, and follow the above steps to melt about a half inch worth of wax. Pour this wax on the top of your candle to give it a finished look. (Rinse jar immediately for easy clean up.)

Soy candles are expensive, so I am so excited to try making these myself!

I’ve been saving all sorts of cute little jars and dreaming of what scents I’ll try.

In the meanwhile, I’m really loving the peppermint!

Here is the link to the website my daughter used for directions to make the body butter.

She used peppermint essential oil.

The body butter is thick, but not greasy.

It seems to absorb right into your skin, which is great for dry skinned people like me.

http://www.purenaturaldiva.com/2010/04/recipe-make-your-own-body-cream-lotion-bodybutter/

Here is the link for the salt scrub.

She scented it with peppermint as well.

http://www.diynatural.com/homemade-body-scrubs/

I just love this present and the fact that my daughter made it herself makes me love it even more.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Simple…

2012-01-09T23:34:00.001-08:00

Some baby’s breath from the grocery store

plunked in an inexpensive little basket

hanging from my driftwood hanger.

I’m getting used to my new 35mm prime lens,

my Christmas present from the Hubs.

This photo’s not perfect, but I love the simplicity of the flowers in the basket.

I used Kim’s embrace texture, just one simple layer, softlight mode, 75% opacity.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Big love…

2012-01-08T21:05:00.001-08:00

I can feel my heart strings stretching clear across the country as we fly home.

It hurts, leaving them.

My daughter, son-in-law, oldest granddaughter, only grandson in South Carolina.

My youngest daughter in Missouri.

It was so good to spend time with all of them,

not just good, wonderful.

My heart has strings here too, and I feel them pulling when I’m away.

Oldest daughter, son-in-law, newest granddaughter and her big sister.

Our beloved church family.

The home and life that the Hubs and I have here.

It’s the love that stretches the heart strings clear across the country so tight it hurts,

but even this is something to thank God for,

this love so big that it hurts.

********

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1561-#1572

-an afternoon, just me and youngest daughter

-Holy Spirit help to say no to an unnecessary purchase I wanted but didn’t need

-youngest daughter’s good, supportive friends

-time in the prayer room

-God’s faithful provision

-our church’s great group of 20 somethings

-instruments and voices raised in worship

-the truth of God’s word spoken and sung

-healing of soul wounds

-lunch with youngest daughter and her friend

-safe flight home

-HOME!

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

One True God…

2012-01-07T08:23:00.001-08:00

Our politically correct society doesn’t want us to think, much less speak out,

that there is only one true God.

The God of the Bible, the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth, is the only God.

All other gods and religions of this world are the creation of man’s imagination, idols, idolatry.

It isn’t cruel or unkind to speak this Truth.

In fact it’s the cruelest of cruelties to know this Truth and not to speak it!

We know the One True God.

We know that there is only One Way to be saved and to have eternal life,

and that is through believing in God’s Son Jesus Christ and in what He did for our salvation

and in receiving Him as our Lord and Savior.

SHOUT IT OUT!

The God Who Created the Heavens and the Earth,

the God of the Bible,

is the One True God.

He loves You with an immeasurable love beyond compare.

He sacrificed His Son so He could have you in His forever family.

This is Truth worth sharing unashamedly.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Just checkin’ in…

2012-01-05T07:46:00.001-08:00

I’m a homebody.

I’m having a wonderful time, but I miss home.

I’m ready to be in my little nest.

This week we’re staying in a large three bedroom apartment owned by International House of Prayer, Kansas City.

We is the Hubs and I and 7 members of our worship team.

Right now I’m waiting for my turn in the bathroom.

The Hubs got up before everyone else and is at the coffee shop with our youngest daughter who is part time staff here at I.H.O.P.

It’s been great to have some time with her, and to see her in her element, ministering to others, here.

Yesterday, every member of our team, including the Hubs and I had an appointment for Sozo.

Sozo is a prayer ministry of forgiveness and inner healing.

They have an amazing team here of people trained in this ministry.

God really touched all of us, me included.

I tend to stuff down stress, anger and negative emotions in general,

and hide behind an image of strength and having it all together.

Me feeling I have to be the strong one goes way, way back into my childhood.

That is one of the big areas that we dealt with in Sozo.

I have no idea why I’m telling you this.

Except to say I don’t have it all together,

and that’s o.k.

That’s being real…

hence the title of my blog.

In other areas of realness,

I need to go home for other reasons…

…so, I can put all the Christmas décor away and get my house back to “normal”

…so I can see youngest granddaughter and smell her fuzzy little head

…and her big sister, little Miss Blondie

…so I can detox my body from holiday eating, eating out, and general out of control eating that happens when traveling

…so I can get back to regular exercising,

(my friend wants me to run a half-marathon with her in May, I have to decide about that)

…so I can be back with my church family on Sunday. I miss them.

How are you all settling in to this New Year?

(Oh, I forgot to tell you that for Christmas the Hubs got me a new Nikon 35mm prime lens for my camera.

LOVE it.

Hence the photos.
That’s my word for the day, hence. )

Still following,

Elizabeth

Gratitude….starting 2012 with thanksgiving

2012-01-01T16:14:00.001-08:00

I think it’s the first time the Hubs and I have been apart when we welcomed in a New Year in our 35 years of marriage.

He flew home early New Year’s Eve from our daughter’s in South Carolina

in order to be home for church on New Year’s Day.

I stayed and partied in the New Year with the grandkids.

We played some games…

Ate some snacks…

Danced along with Fred Astaire…

and welcomed in 2012 by going out onto the front porch with the grandkids at midnight and yelling out,

“HAPPY NEW YEAR!”

while banging on some pots and pans.

Tomorrow I leave South Carolina and fly to Kansas City, Missouri,

(I get to see my youngest daughter! ),

where the Hubs and some of the worship team from our church will meet up with me.

We will be starting the New Year by spending a few days at the International House of Prayer,

sitting in God’s presence,

seeking His face,

listening for His voice.

So things here on my blog will be quiet for a few days…

In the meanwhile,

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1550-#1560

-walks around the lake

-the way, (though he’s a big boy, 7 years old), my grandson still holds my hand on our walks

-my granddaughter’s infectious, bubbly laugh

-hawks soaring overhead

-feeding the geese and ducks

-climbing trees, finding bird nests

-playing Uno and Skip-Bo

-reading books

-grandkids sneaking into our bed at night

-welcoming 2012 with my daughter and grandkids

-all of us sitting in the living room, New Year’s Day morning, Bibles and journals open, having our devotions

Still following,

Elizabeth

My Word for 2012 is…

2012-01-01T09:18:00.001-08:00

My word for 2012 is DELIGHT!

Psalm 37:4 I will DELIGHT in the Lord...

Psalm 119:16 I will DELIGHT in His precepts...

Psalm 37:23 He DELIGHTS in me and watches my every step...

2012 is going to be a DELIGHT-FULL year!

Still following,

Elizabeth

All things new…

2011-12-31T03:59:00.000-08:00

God’s mercies are new every morning.

When we make Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord, He makes us a new creation.

When Jesus returns, He will make sin-damaged creation brand new.

Therefore, we have every reason to enter this new year, full of hope and expectation.

May God bless you beyond measure in 2012!

Elizabeth

Friday’s Favs…looking back on some favorite projects

2011-12-29T12:39:00.001-08:00

Today I’m looking back at ten of my favorite things that I’ve made or made over this past year

with links to the original posts.

I continue to make and use my own Homemade Lavender Scented Laundry Soap.

It’s economical, cleans well and smells great!

This simple white wooden box, made for me by my handyman son-in-law

is still one of my favorite things to decorate with.

(ok, so I didn’t make this one myself)

The makeover of my old wooden rocking chair continues to make me smile. I love it.

I’ve done a few projects with driftwood…

these boats and this sign.

and this driftwood hanger.

All it took was some Dollar Tree contact paper to give this shelf a quick, easy, cute makeover.

I “vintage-ized” two thrift store wooden caddys, this one…

and this wooden caddy.

This simple project to display some ironstone saucers is still one of my favorite pieces of wall décor.

I wonder what projects 2012 has in store.

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Our blessings…

2011-12-28T20:26:00.001-08:00

Baby granddaughter is one month old today.

Her mama put two wee pony tails in her hair to show off how much hair she has.

Big Sister got this strider bike for Christmas and is enjoying her Christmas week

with Mama, Daddy and baby sister at her other Papa and Nana’s house.

In the meanwhile, the Hubs and I are soaking up our time in South Carolina

with our oldest granddaughter and only grandson.

Today my daughter, granddaughter and I all got pedicures while the Hubs took our grandson for a haircut.

Afterwards we went to a local seafood restaurant and enjoyed southern hushpuppies and fish.

We ended the day with some homemade banana pudding for dessert and watching a movie together.

Did I ever tell you that being a Nana is the greatest?

I did?

Well, it’s true!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Graham Family Home Tour…

2011-12-27T19:19:00.001-08:00

Since flying cross country from Oregon to South Carolina on Christmas Eve and surprising our grandkids,

we’ve been enjoying the moments with them and our daughter and son in law.

On Christmas Day we feasted,

opened gifts,

feasted some more,

watched the grandkids play with their new toys,

and

feasted some more.

On Monday we took them on a nice walk around the lake,

then to see the movie, We Bought A Zoo, later in the afternoon. It’s a great movie!

Today we all went to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina.

(It’s a wonderful place to see and charges no admission.)

On the property they have Billy Graham’s boyhood home.

It’s such a lovely home I thought I’d share the photos with you.

The soft blue, cream and white décor is lovely.

I love those built in corner cabinets.

My grandson is motioning me to come and look at something.

The kitchen was my favorite room.

Hope you enjoyed the tour!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Surprising the grandkids on Christmas Eve…

2011-12-25T19:33:00.001-08:00

We left Portland early Christmas Eve morning and flew to South Carolina to surprise our two oldest grandkids for Christmas. My words can’t capture the moment as well as this video.

(You will need to turn off my blog music on the bottom left of my homepage first.)

Surprising the grandkids for Christmas…

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1535-#1549

-soup and sandwiches shared with oldest daughter and her family

-an unexpected dinner out with the Hubs on Tuesday night

-a wonderful evening of fellowship at the home of a dear couple from our church

-celebrating Christmas early with our oldest daughter and her family

-an amazing Christmas dinner, service and outreach to the community on Friday night with our church, (Truelife Church), helping our son-in-law and daughter’s church, (Hope City),…over 300 came, over 20 new commitments to Christ

-all of the volunteers from Hope City and Truelife Church who made it possible

-more than enough food donated to feed everyone

-a safe, uneventful flight to South Carolina (bulkhead seat with no one else in our row too!)

-the joy when our grandkids saw us

-the Hubs annual blessing written out and read over our children

-a wonderful Christmas

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Merry Christmas…

2011-12-23T22:37:00.001-08:00

Praying that this Christmas you and yours

are overwhelmed with the love and goodness of God,

and that joy and peace fills your heart and home.

Elizabeth

Almost Christmas…

2011-12-22T23:22:00.001-08:00

The last couple of days have been filled with cookie baking…

(recipe below)

and cookie decorating…

Cinnamon, Cranberry Bread making…

(click for recipe)

and sampling…

Early Christmas dinner and celebrating with oldest daughter and her family,

(who are heading to the in-laws this year)…

A bit of early gift opening…

Newest grandbaby holding…

Just the usual holiday busyness and blessings!

Our Favorite Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 cups butter
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 tablespoons whole milk
4 cups all purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Cream together butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla until light and fluffy. Stir in milk. Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture and incorporate well. Wrap and chill 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Bake til edges are just golden on ungreased cookie sheet.

Enjoy!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Two quick and easy holiday breakfast ideas…

2011-12-21T00:05:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had the Apple Strudel bread from Costco?

It’s delicious, but made into French Toast it’s even better!

I just whisk together 4 eggs, about a half cup milk, about a tablespoon of sugar, a teaspoon vanilla and some cinnamon and nutmeg to taste. Then I dip both sides of bread in egg mixture and grill on a lightly greased skillet like normal french toast.

When done instead of regular breakfast syrup, try a little caramel syrup. Yummm!

Some folks call it Oven Pancake, some Dutch Babies, and some German Pancake.

Whatever it’s called, it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be topped in numerous ways.

Place a couple of tablespoons of butter in a heavy skillet.

Place skillet in oven set to 425 while it preheats.

In the meanwhile, blend together 4 eggs, 3/4 cup milk, 3/4 cup flour, and a dash or two of salt.

Pour batter into the hot skillet and bake for about 15 minutes.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into wedges to serve.

Delicious with syrup, jam, jelly or warm fruit compote.

Happy Cooking!

Elizabeth

A treasure…

2011-12-20T10:31:00.001-08:00

“I’m just stopping in at Goodwill for a minute since it’s right on my way”, is always my excuse.

This little guy was hidden amongst all the other junky knick knacks on the crowded shelf.

But I spied him and I bought him for 99cents.

I think with this little sprig of holly he may be one of my favorite Christmas decorations this year.

My blog is growing.

I have new followers that I haven’t been able to say welcome to.

Faithful readers leave comments and I’m not always able to respond to tell them I read their comment

and how much it meant to me.

I can only do so much.

But there’s Someone who sees you there in amongst the crowd.

He bought you and was willing to pay an exorbitant price to make you His.

Because you’re His favorite.

Yes, you.

In the midst of these busy days of holiday preparations,

I pray that you are overwhelmed with His great love for you.

I pray that His peace rules your mind and heart.

I pray that His joy becomes your strength when you are weary.

I pray that His love flows through you to the not so easy to love people that are in your life.

I pray that you are healed and whole in body, soul and spirit.

I pray that all of your needs are met above and beyond all you can ask or think.

I pray that your Christmas is the merriest

and your New Year blessed beyond measure.

Love to each of you,

Elizabeth

My glass overfloweth…

2011-12-18T17:25:00.001-08:00

They say you’re either a glass half-empty type person

or a glass half-full.

I’ve always believed I’m of the glass half-full persuasion,

but sometimes it’s not just the way I am,

it’s a choice…

a choice to look for His gifts,

a choice to remember that this life is not all there is,

a choice to remember that it’s only the dressing room for eternity

and forever and ever and ever is a very real thing

for those who have made Jesus Lord,

(or The Boss of Your Life

as I like to say).

So, Christmas is different this year.

Mama’s in heaven.

Oldest daughter, son in law and grandbabies won’t be home for Christmas.

Youngest daughter won’t be home for Christmas.

We’re flying cross country on Christmas Eve to be with second born and her family,

to celebrate Christmas and to say goodbye,

as they depart for Ghana soon.

I’d prefer to stay home.

I’d prefer all of our family could be home together like in years past.

I’d prefer there was no empty place at the table

where loved ones used to sit.

But changes come, and even so,

life is more than half full with blessings,

it overflows.

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

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

-a walk on a crispy, cold day

-holding baby granddaughter while she sleeps

-making up stories for Big Sister

-lunch with my brother

-checking things off the to-do list one by one

-having a table full of company for dinner on a Wednesday night

-the most amazing view of Mt. Hood as I drive over the bridge from Oregon to Washington on a cold, clear day

-a whole different kind of beauty driving over the same place on a gray, foggy day

-a helpful bank employee

-a wonderful and fun early Christmas gathering with the Hub’s family

-Great Grandma, (the Hub’s mama), seeing baby granddaughter for the first time

-driving through the Hub’s hometown to see the Christmas lights

-the love of our church family and our love for them and His great love above all

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Prince of Peace…

2011-12-17T20:57:00.001-08:00

Still following,

Elizabeth

Friday Favs…a vintage looking Christmas craft

2011-12-15T09:50:00.001-08:00

Let’s just be honest.

I’m a grade school level crafter.

If it’s complicated and takes a long time, forget it.

If it’s easy enough for a third grader, I’m lovin’ it!

Here’s an easy craft that I enjoyed doing and I’m lovin’ the results.

Step One: buy an old hymnal or some sheet music at the thrift store or download some music

and cut out your desired shapes

Step two: to “vintage-ize” the paper set it in some leftover coffee for twenty minutes or so.

To dry it put it on a cookie sheet in a very low oven, (about 110 degrees), for another twenty minutes or so.

Step three: Write your word or letter on your shape in permanent marker,

(this can actually be done before step two or after, whichever you prefer)

Step four: Cut out the same shapes in cardstock or thin cardboard

Step Five: Glue paper shapes to cardboard shapes

Step Six: Brush about 1/4 inch strip of Elmer’s glue around edge of shape and add glitter

Last step: to hang, add a loop of twine or ribbon to the back with a hot glue gun.

Easy, but cute!

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE and HAVE A BLESSED WEEKEND!

Elizabeth

Also linking here.

Mama’s Christmas…

2011-12-14T09:20:00.001-08:00

Christmas is a bit different this year

with Mama spending her first Christmas

with The Reason for The Season Himself

She’s the one who first taught me to love Handel’s Messiah

on those big, black, platter sized records

playing on the stereo encased in that big cabinet

that was still a part of her furniture up til the end

I’m wondering if Handel is conducting

an orchestra of angels

and a choir of cherubims

in a live performance

for the Messiah Himself

I like to think that Mama has a front row seat

and when they get to the Hallelujah Chorus

all of heaven stands

in ovation to the One Who Reigns Forever and Ever

and Mama claps the loudest

because now she really knows for sure

that He is and He does

Christmas is a bit different this year

for us

but especially for Mama

who’s having her Merriest Christmas ever

Still following,

Elizabeth

Christmas Open House…

2011-12-12T14:55:00.001-08:00

You’ve seen my…

Christmas Transferware Plates

Christmas Centerpiece

Junk turned Christmas Decor

Christmas Tree

Christmas Mantel

and now here’s a post full of odds and ends from all over the house.

Good indoor photos on light deficient December days in Oregon is challenging,

but I gave it my best shot! (pun intended)

In the entry, a “tree” of fresh rosemary is decked with felt snowflakes.

Resting on the same bench as the rosemary, a wood caddy is filled with

vintage silverplate, a pair of binoculars, a Christmas book and a framed Christmas card.

Looking up to the stair landing a vintage rack mounted on the wall holds a vintage grain sack and french towels

and is draped with a garland of felt snowflakes and glass candy canes.

An antique trunk also rests in the stair landing and is topped with a vintage suitcase packed with Christmas greens, pinecones and jute webbing.

On a shelf in the hall, ironstone sits in a tray that becomes a catchall for incoming Christmas cards.

Also in the hallway a piece of driftwood becomes a hanger for Christmas birds

which hang above framed ink and pen drawings.

Heading into the living room, a vintage drying rack holds Christmas décor and photos.

Christmas stockings hang from a ladder which stands by the fireplace

A Christmas bear waits on little granddaughter’s chair for her to come visit Nana’s house.

A little Christmas bird nests on Christmas greens next to some candles wrapped in Christmas hymns.

The main wall of the living room holds this arrangement.

Now on into the dining room.

In the kitchen, an old stool sits next to the refrigerator.

On the stool rests an ironstone bowl which holds a simple arrangement of pinecones and jingle bells.

On into the kitchen, another look at the windowsill.

More Christmas touches in the kitchen and dining room.

In the master bedroom, above the bed a coastal inspired NOEL garland drapes over a mirror.

Before you head back out the front door

a driftwood hanger holds a tin star ornament, a warm sweater, and a glowing candle in a hanging canning jar.

Thanks for stopping by!

Elizabeth

Also linking to The Nester’s Party!

Great grace…

2011-12-11T19:44:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving…

the birth of baby granddaughter…

the visit of youngest daughter…

the visit of second born daughter…

Christmas parties and preparations…

a wedding…

the happy mountaintops

another delay in the church building project…

a bank account hacked into…

a crunched car bumper…

tension…

stress…

the valley times

and in between, the sweet everyday ordinary moments

and all of it

Grace…

Great Grace.

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

I continue to count my thanks

piling up gratitude day by day

in my little green journal…

#1507-#1521

-second born daughter able to catch an early flight home

-so much fun at our annual ladies’ Christmas dinner

-God’s provision for snow tires for our youngest daughter, (she needs them living in Kansas City!)

-a perfect day spent with two of my girls and the littlest granddaughters

-finally, it looks like second born daughter and her family have their target date to go to Ghana

(teary eyes for this mama/nana)

-how the “aunties” love their little nieces

-peace in His presence on a stressful day

-Isaiah 43:28 God makes a way through

-forgiveness received and given

-“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”

-He cleanses me

-His strength in spite of our weakness

-God meeting us in an incredible way as we worship together

-a former student, from when I worked at the grade school, and his family showing up at church

-lunch with new friends

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth

Why He came…

2011-12-10T19:41:00.001-08:00

Today I’m remembering why He came.

He came to die, to be the perfect, sinless, sacrificial Lamb whose death and resurrection

would make it possible for us to be cleansed from sin, set free, and given life forever.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Our Christmas tree and Christmas-y kitchen

2011-12-08T08:40:00.001-08:00

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree…

we’ve always had a real tree, after all Oregon is the land where Christmas trees are grown!

Circumstances this year led us to get an artificial tree,

so we went to good old Target on Black Friday and got a $30 special on one.

It’s really not the greatest, but all decorated up it’s not so bad.

I must admit, a fake tree is easier and less messy, but also less beautiful and less fragrant.

I think next year we’ll be back to the real thing.

Now onto my wee little kitchen and some Christmas-y touches in there.

Here it is all lit up in the evening with a yummy, smelling Mrs. Meyer’s candle.

Here is the kitchen window that I showed in an earlier post all lit up at night.

Here’s a peek of the dining room window from the kitchen with a bead garland hanging over the window and strung with my collection of Eddie Walker kitchen tool ornaments.

Still following,

Elizabeth

Jesse’s Branch…an advent idea

2011-12-06T22:25:00.001-08:00

Three years ago I thought of this idea,

or maybe it would be more correct to say God planted this idea in my heart.

It’s a bit of a cross between a Jesse Tree and an Advent Calendar.

All it took was a branch and some simple tags purchased at an office supply store.

Then I chose 25 titles for Jesus and wrote each one on a tag,

with the scripture reference where the title is found on the other side of the tag.

Each day of December leading up to Christmas we add a tag to the Jesse’s Branch.

Each day we remember another aspect of Who He is and all that He does.

Here are the 25 Names/Titles of Jesus I chose with the scripture reference.

Jesus -Matthew 1:21
Savior-1 John 4:14
Son of God- Luke 1:32-35
Son of Man-Matthew 18:11
Redeemer-Job 19:25
King of Kings -1 Timothy 6:14-15
Lord of Lords-1 Timothy 6:14-15
Bread of Heaven-John 6:51
I Am-Exodus 3:14
Alpha and Omega-Revelation 1:8
The Word- John 1:1
The Way, The Truth, The Life- John 14:6
Lamb of God- John 1:29
The Door- John 10:7-10
Good Shepherd-John 10:11
The Deliverer-Romans 11:26
Friend-John 15:15
My Beloved-Song of Solomon 7:10
Bridegroom-Isaiah 62:5
Faithful Witness- Revelation 1:5-6
My Righteousness-1 Corinthians 1:30
Wisdom of God-1 Corinthians 1:30
Lion of Judah- Revelation 5:5

The idea has caught on in our church and now several of the families have added a Jesse’s Branch to their Christmas traditions.

Still Following,

Elizabeth

Christmas Mantel…

2011-12-05T23:29:00.001-08:00

A cozy, warm wood fire in the fireplace...

A hand crafted mantel made by one of the elders in our church…

An shabby old window frosted with “snow”…

Homemade NOEL ornaments made of vintage, coffee stained hymnal pages mounted on cardstock and edged with glitter, hang from a branch…

Tealights glow inside mercury glass votives…

A favorite Christmas card stands in a vintage flower frog…

Paper Joy to the World garland twined among green garland…

Pinecones, twig stars, white faux berries tucked here and there…

The stockings hung BY the chimney on a vintage, wooden ladder…

We’re warm, cozy and savoring His blessings.

God bless you and yours this Christmas time!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Christmas Centerpiece with Universal China Woodvine pattern…

2011-12-05T09:31:00.001-08:00

Mama was not a collector.

There are many things that I remember seeing around the house when I was a little girl I would like to have now.

But, other than Grandma’s quilts, Mama didn’t keep “old things”.

So, the fact that I have a few items that have been around since my childhood is precious to me.

I have one lone Universal China Woodvine pattern refrigerator bowl that Mama had ever since I can remember.

Then last year, my blog friend Karen, posted a photo of her lovely Universal China collection.

I started hunting for more pieces to go with Mama’s old bowl, but was hesitant to pay the price.

Imagine my delight in finding this lovely piece after Christmas last year at Monticello Antiques for nine dollars!

This year, it’s the star of my Christmas table.

I simply set a red glass vase inside the bowl and put a candle in the vase.

Around the vase I put some Christmas greens, some Walmart Christmas ornament tin stars, and some balls that say HO!, HO!, HO!, or OH!, OH!, OH! if you look at them upside down!

Still following,

Elizabeth

Looking back to see what God has done…

2011-12-04T21:37:00.001-08:00

“God takes pleasure in demonstrating His greatness.”

“Those who have not penned in their memories the remarkable instances of God’s loving favor to them miss comfort’s sweet companionship.”

“…often it is one experience remembered which frees the soul from despair-

a prison where the devil longs to trap the Christian.”

“…when David’s hope faltered, he regained it by recalling God’s goodness.”

“when your hope is at a loss…look backward to see what God has done for you.”

“Another way to let God rescue you from despair is to remember how often He has proved your unbelief to be a false prophet.”

“Why then are you frightened again and again by your distrustful thoughts, which God has so often proved liars?”

“…even when you have been impatient and despairing in your afflictions, never the less, God’s mercy has been at work all the while to deliver you from them.”

All quotes are from “The Christian in Complete Armor” by William Gurnall, first published in 1655.

I thought the above quotations so appropriate for Monday,

the day I share my gratitude list from the previous week,

the day I “look backward to see what God has done.

#1496-#1506

-our new granddaughter born!!! 7 pounds 13 ounces, 19 and one-half inches of pure miracle

-safe delivery

-healthy baby girl

-youngest daughter getting to be here for her niece’s birth

-skyping with second born daughter and my other two grandbabies so they could see their new niece/cousin

-my oldest daughter’s wonderful in-laws

-baby lost too much weight and doctor didn’t want to release them from the hospital,

people prayed and she gained 5 ounces overnight!

-“Big Sister” spending the night and telling me, “I yike you, Nana!”

-Christmas music

-Church building permits granted! A huge answer to prayer!

Gratefully yours,

Elizabeth