Live Each Moment...to the Fullest (James 4:14)

Feeling God's Spirit...

2012-01-08T21:00:00.000-06:00

Well I wrote this post back in October, how God was stirring in my heart. November crept by, December my heart was troubled, burdened....and here comes January....and the heart of myself and my husband are both being stirred...we still don't know why, or what God has in store but He's setting the stage for something....

I started reading a new book called "7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess" by Jen Hatmaker. I wasn't sure exactly what to expect but it's kind of like a wooden spoon being used to stir a pot of boiling water, it is truly speaking to my heart. It's helping me put things, life in perspective. I am thinking again of how many hurting people there are outside the walls of my home, in my city, my state, my country and the world. I can't minimize the worlds problems and say that I can do NOTHING for those in need, who are hurting, who are poor and in poverty, who are hundreds of thousands of miles away from my front door.....because the truth is, I CAN do something.

I know a God who is so powerful, a God who can change everything, and be sufficient in all circumstances, and who am I to withold him from others? Refrain from sharing Him with those who need Him? We have a sweet Jesus who we have the freedom to worship and there are people all around who not only do not KNOW my Jesus, and my God but don't have the same freedoms we do in America to serve Him, pray to Him, read His words....

I know this post today is really not resolving anything, just confirming something I've known for months...God is working and moving in my life, now that I know that for a fact I am so ready to find out what He has in store for me!!!!

Test

2011-12-29T05:41:00.001-06:00

Test the app for my iPhone

What Drives You?

2011-12-29T01:11:00.000-06:00

It's three days after Christmas, kids are napping, I'm away from home (with family), sitting quietly in a recliner and my mind starts wandering....my mind speeds through thousands of thoughts a day, and I'm sure that some don't appreciate that probably half of the thoughts/ideas/ramblings that cross my mind come out of my mouth. Tonight, they come out through my fingertips!

Today I kept thinking of a phrase that I hear so many people, including myself, say so often. I was pondering the phrase: "But what do they think?" Whatever order the words are in, it all means the same. "What do they think, what will they think, I wonder what they think...." I started thinking about some of the things I do in my life, maybe things I do because I wonder "what people would think" if I didn't do them.

I thought about the Christmas cards I decided not to send out this year *gasp*, what do people think?! Then I moved to the reason that I stopped sending cards is because my list has grown to a ridiculous 200+ names and I just can't figure out how to narrow it down. "What would they think" if I didn't send them a card this year and they found out I did send them out? Then I thought about my cluttered house..."what would they think" if they knew I really needed to purge/sell this item, I don't want to hurt their feelings because they gave it to me?. I then thought about my house "what would they [insert someone's name here] think" if they came to my dirty, undecorated home.......what would they think.....

I heard a few other people the past several days, over Christmas with family, saying phrases like that too, and it just made me wonder. How many of us are DRIVEN to do things because we are concerned about what "THEY" think of us.....and then I asked myself, does it even matter what they think of us?

Here's where my mind landed, although it's easier said than done. When it all boils down to it, it doesn't matter what anyone thinks of you but our Lord and Savior. We should be driven by the desire to please Him, and to follow His will. So it doesn't matter what people think of your job/calling in life, it only matters what HE thinks about it. It doesn't matter if your job/calling isn't popular, or is different from what most people recognize as normal. It also doesn't matter what people think of how you raise your children, or discipline your children, and it doesn't matter what people think about the things you make a priority in your life, and the things you choose to exclude due to your personal family decisions. If you are truly living your life obedient to the Lord, and following His commands, and pleasing HIM then it truly only matters what HE thinks of you, it doesn't matter what "they" think of you.....

I hope and pray I am not driven by what others think of me in life but what the Lord thinks of me, and judges me to be in life so that in death I may honor him....

Broken and Lost

2011-10-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

God has been working on my heart, I don't know what he is saying, what he is doing or what He has planned, but he is moving in my heart. He's opening my eyes to so many things in the life of those around me, and even those beyond my reach.

I'm constantly being reminded of the pain in this world, the cancer, the sickness, the people who are hurt physically, and the words that we think should be easy to "roll of our shoulders" yet linger and sear our hearts....

There's some things we never think of, like the fact that you are reading this on a computer (or phone), most likely a device you own, probably sitting in an air conditioned/heated home, with running water, and food in your fridge, at least one vehicle to your families name, maybe some chagne in the console, clothes in your closet, shoes to wear....most likely a few pairs that are "cute" and not just "practicial" like tennis shoes.

Let's take that to the flip side. There are people all over the world that live in homes with NO electricity, no heater or air conditioner, no running water, no fridge for food, very little or no food to their name, have never seen a vehicle let alone ridden in one or owned one, no money to their name, maybe not even one pair of shoes to their name.....

I stay home with my kids, and while that is an important job (one of the most important jobs) there is a world of pain, hurt and need outside my front door...a world that is so easy to forget when it's not a part of our daily lives. While I'm complaining about washing my dishes off so I can put them in the dishwasher there is a mother in another country serving her family on rocks for dishes, or maybe eating out of a community pot of stew. While I'm complaining about my piles of laundry there is a mother out there washing her kids one pair of clothes in a river, or a lake, or maybe a puddle. When I open my fridge and pantry complain that I have "no food" to eat as I scan the unappealing items I have remaining there is a mom searching desperately for something to feed her children, because they haven't eaten in 4 days. We complain of gas prices while some people walk barefoot every single place they go, we complain about a busy schedule filled with technically non-essential events that fill our calander, while there are people whose children do not even receive an education.

God is moving my heart. Sure, I know that I still say things or do things that show my selfish nature but my eyes are being opened much more to the fact that there is a broken and lost world outside my front door, some of those broken and lost people may be neighbors, or friends, or family, or people I see in passing, some of those broken and lost people are all the way across the world, in countries I've never been in, places I could never imagine, and situations that would bring me to tears.

I pray the Lord keep moving in my heart, continue to open my eyes to the broken and lost world I'm in, and help me remember what's truly important...........

Broken Cisterns

2011-05-28T02:31:00.002-05:00

Tonight I know that God is who He says He is (Exodus 3:14) and He deserves that title, he has earned that title, that position (Obadiah 3-4). I need to constantly remind myself that I live for Him, and to bring HIM glory is greater than anything else. I don’t want to trade that approval of God for the approval of man (Jeremiah 2:11). I don’t want to chase after a worthless idol, by making the opinion of man more than the opinion of my God and what He not only thinks about me but says about me. I know that the Lord is Living Water (John 4:10), and when I choose a worthless idol rather than Him I am creating for myself a small, limited and broken “cistern” (Jeremiah 2:13) that I am trying to fill in order to be refreshed…but from the very beginning I am setting myself up for failure. The cistern that I have “created” (my cistern of approval for instance) is already broken to start with, and the pieces would never fit together right to hold my “water” (refreshment, approval)….and the second issue is that I am trying to fill my cistern with “stale” water instead of God’s living water. I am trying to cling to broken promises of others, the need of approval from others, or the desire of respect from others……and yet all along MY GOD promises to constantly refresh me with Himself, the living water………

....and in knowing all of this I can begin to truly know who I am.....because when I start by defining myself, by knowing WHO defines me (Christ)...then I am being refreshed from the Living Water who never fails rather than thinking I am defined by the stale water and broken promises of others in my life.....

.....I am defined by CHRIST.....and I will no longer drink from the stale water of a broken cistern I have created but will be truly refreshed by the Living Water of the one who created me..........

Genderless Baby??

2011-05-25T21:32:00.000-05:00

I ran across this article after seeing a friends comment pop up on Facebook. It is titled "He, she or it? Family keeps baby's gender a secret". This simply infuriates me.

The parents say

What we noticed is that parents make so many choices for their children. It’s obnoxious,” Stocker told the paper. He and his wife allow Jazz and Kio to choose their clothing from both the boys' and girls' departments – including pink dresses - and how they want to wear their hair

Parents make choices for their children? What about the GOD that created these children? He created a specific gender for this child, and it plays a part in the role of who each of us are! We were fearfully and wonderfully made. This is not something that a parent "pushes" on their children, this is simply the way they were created, end of story.

If I weren't so sick right now I would keep on going but I"m too tired to type any more!!! Lord, I pray for this country!!

Life from a 5 year old

2011-05-25T21:13:00.000-05:00

I don't think I even need to go on about this blog post, just read the quote and enough is said.

"Sometimes, life isn't like you want it.." LK (5 yrs)

My amazing, wonderful, caring, smart, loving son LK.

Claustrophobic...in a dress....

2011-05-21T02:03:00.001-05:00

I told my friend MM I would never tell this story, and HERE I lay on the sofa typing my embarrassing story of terror......

MM and I take an annual shopping trip, each being a mother of three kids we don't go shopping much, it's too hard to try on clothes, match the shoes, find the jewelry....so we just save it all up and go at once, together, abandoning our husbands with the kids. They don't question it anymore, it's what "sisters" do.

MM and I don't live up the road from each other like we used to, so I drove to her house Fri night so we could wake up early Sat morning and start our fun filled, girl day.....I think we're going to throw in a little Mimi's for lunch, and PF Chang for dinner....and maybe a mani-pedi too.......

SO ANYWAY, here we are in Target, piling the clothes in our cart...."oh this is cute, no this one, hey that's my size" (you can obviously tell we haven't shopped since our last annual shopping trip). I find the cutest dress. Khaki colored, tailored style, with a brown belt....oh I'll have to post a picture. Now let me say, my body size right now is the biggest it's been on any shopping trip to date (we skipped our pregnant years, and we've always been pregnant at the same time. all three of her kids were born within a couple of months of all three of my kids).

So I go into the dressing room and slip into this super cute dress. It was "snug" but I was able to tug it over me and fit in fairly easy. I zip it up and LOVE it right away. But this isn't the right size, it is not very unforgiving of my tummy area, so after I show it off to her and we agree I need to try on a size larger I go to unzip the dress, unzipped it until it stopped and try to take the dress off.

Suddenly I felt claustrophobic, in a dress!!!! I could NOT get the dress off! I tried pulling it over my head, and I tried stepping out of it and it would not BUDGE. I was stuck. I was trying to remain calm but I just couldn't "I am STUCK" I hollered to MM across the dressing room (she was in the one across from me). She laughed "you can't be stuck". I yelled back "Oh yes I can, and I AM stuck...." At this point I hyperventilate, I literally start envisioning myself having to borrow scissors from a Target employee and CUT myself out.....

So MM comes over to help me, all to find out that I hadn't unzipped the dress all the way......really? What? Yes. When I THOUGHT I had unzipped the zipper it had hit a snag and I thought I'd finished....I was so claustrophobic in that dress, it wasn't funny at the time...but it sure is now.

I do have to ask, why do ALL the embarrassing things happen to ME and never to MM?! I will spare the other embarrassing stories that she and I share....this one is good enough for now....

Stay at Home Moms....or rather Work at Home Moms....

2011-05-20T17:44:00.001-05:00

A man came home from work and found his three children outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers strewn all around the front yard. The door of his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found an even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over, and the throw rug was wadded against one wall. In the front room the TV was loudly blaring a Cartoon channel, and the family room was strewn with toys and various items of clothing. In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on the counter, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled on the floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was spread by the back door. He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she might be ill, or that something serious had happened. He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, scummy soap and more toys strewn over the floor. Miles of toilet paper lay in a heap and toothpaste had been smeared over the mirror and walls. As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled, and asked how his day went. He looked at her bewildered and asked, 'What happened here today?' She again smiled and answered, 'You know every day when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world do I do all day?' 'Yes,' was his incredulous reply. She answered, 'Well, today I didn't do it.
This was not written by me, and the author is unknown. Enjoy and laugh

Saving money, it CAN be fun...

2011-05-19T08:20:00.000-05:00

Well I'm a couponer. Yes, and I love it. I'm not one of those extreme couponers like you see on TV, but I do make small stockpiles, and have fun doing it. There is nothing like going to the register, seeing your total, having them scan the coupons and then paying for only about half of what I started with.

Like yesterday I went to Walgreens, and paid $3.86 (before tax) for 4 boxes of kleenex, 2 bottles of body was (for a man), 2 bottles of body wash (for a woman), a package of bars of soap, and several packages of starbursts. I spent $3.86 and saved $36.84. You can't help but get excited when you see that at the register.

I'm finally getting to the point that I may not have to even grocery shop now except for a few random items, like produce, milke, and on occasion some more meat (although I do use coupons on my meat too)

Before I couponed I was barely scraping by on our grocery budget. I'd fill it up and still feel like I didn't have much in the kitchen especially, for food. Now I've been spending the same amount (I'm new at this, later you don't spend hardly anything) BUT I am getting TONS of food, and items. I don't need to go shopping now. Like next payday (when I usually run to the store) I'm thinking I'll just need fruit and milk again. Maybe a couple items. Hopefully I will start taking out less grocery money. That savings can go elsewhere.

My friend is awesome at this, and really teaches you to coupon. I'm so new I"m not good at explaining it but go visit her blog over at Frugal Family Life. She's my sweet friend and does an awesome job teaching, explaining and doing all the hard work!

Growing Up (Princess)

2011-05-16T00:08:00.000-05:00

I love watching my kids grow up, right now I wanted to talk about Princess. Oh she is getting SO big. She will answer your questions (yes or no). She will take my hand and lead to me the pantry to show me what snacks she wants. She giggles and talks. She brushes her hair. She tries to sit on her little potty. She picks out her shoes. And she sings!

Today was so cute, Ruru and I were singing "Jesus Love Me" to her and she was "singing". She wasn't singing the right words but she sure was trying. Making little noises and tunes that were very similar. In fact we've caught her singing the right rhythm to the church bells we hear ringing in the distance, and things like that. I do believe she will be musically inclined.

Princess will be our last little one, so while I'm so happy to see her grow up it also saddens me to know I'm done with baby beds, bottles, and burp rags forever......

Thankul

2011-05-13T17:25:00.000-05:00

Today is one of those days. A weird feeling day where I am not happy or sad, I just feel off. So I thought that's a good day to make a list of SOME of the things I am thankful for in my life.

My husband- I am so lucky to have the wonderful husband that I do. He loves me inside and out, and I can tell you I can be a tough person to love sometimes. I think he understands me better than I understand myself and has the patience to deal with me! LOL. I'm so lucky that he is a hard worker and a helper. Not only does he work hard to provie for the family but he helps me at home when I need help too. He'll help with laundry if I'm behind, or with dishes, and he is always more than willing to watch the kids.
Little King (5yrs)- I am so thankful to have LK as my son. He is such a thoughtful little boy, already growing into a leader. He has his convictions and stands strong with those convictions, usually even when challenged by someone else. He is truly thoughtful and very good at thinking of other people, remembering little details some people forget.
Little Wiseman (3yrs)- I am so thankful to call LW my son, what a compassionate soul he has. Truly loving to others, and hurts when they hurt. He is so tender hearted. He's so full of life and spunk. I know he is going to be hurt many times in his life (because of his tender heart) and that hurts my heart.
Princess- I am so thankful to have such a fun little girl. She's too young to say much about other than I love watching her grow up. She is walking, almost running now. She says "thank you" when you give her things and on her own she is starting to tell us she loves us, by saying "I love you" and/or by giving us kisses and hugs at her own choosing.

I'm thankful for so much more, but today I guess I'll stop here. I'm going to love on my kiddos.

My Video Testimony

2011-05-11T12:47:00.000-05:00

Please let me know if you have any questions!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T11:14:00.000-05:00

Truly, no words needed here

Visit 5 Minutes for Mom: Wordless Wednesday and link up your photo

Invisible Mom

2011-05-11T01:34:00.000-05:00

**A few days late for Mothers Day, to all the moms....***

Invisible Mom
By Author Unknown

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the
lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while
I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store.

Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the
phone?' Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking,
or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner,

because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more:
Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?
Some days I'm not a pair of hands;
I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?'
I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car
to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'

I was certain that these were the hands that once
held books and the eyes that studied history and the
mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had
disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's
going, she's going, she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the
return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a
fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was
sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well.

It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my
out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean.
My unwashed hair was pulled up in a hair clip and I was afraid I could
actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when

Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought
you this.' It was a book on the great
cathedrals of Europe .

I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her
inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the
greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the
book. And I would discover what would
become for me, four life-changing
truths, after which I could pattern my
work:

No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record
of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would
never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.

The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the
eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man

who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw
a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and
asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird
into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.'

And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'
I closed the book, feeling the
missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering
to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day,

even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no
sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to
notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't
see right now what it will become.'

At times, my invisibility feels like an
affliction . But it is not a disease that is erasing my life.
It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the
antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I

see myself as a great builder. As one of the people
who show up at a job that they will never see
finished, to work on something that their name will
never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever
be built in our lifetime, because there are so few people willing to
sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't
want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for
Thanksgiving, 'My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade
pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all
the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument
to myself.

I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there
is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'You're gonna love it
there.'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We
cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very
possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at
the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of
invisible women.

A Home

2011-05-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

I received this ebook FREE last month, from Sarah Mae (it's only $4.99 to download to your computer now). It's called "31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way". I was just a few chapters in and it was so inspiring I cleaned my entire house?! What? I haven't even finished the book yet!!

She talks about one way to clean our house and keep it clean is to "claim" WHY we want a clean house. Not because of what others think, but why is it important to ME to have a clean house. I think of my kids mostly, I want the best environment I can provide for them, that is my WHY....for my children.

Chapter two she blew me away, telling me that we as women were created to be a "life-giver". What does THAT have to do with having a clean house? She defines "live-giving" as "in its most basic sense, is raising life above the level of mere existence"

Then she talks about making our house where people are welcome,a place where they can "put their feet up". She asks us to think about what it's like when WE go to others peoples houses, then asks you what you want YOUR house to be when people come visit. Well of course, I want a place that welcomes my friends.....

....and that my friends is all it took. I have book my book (or Kindle rather) aside and cleaned, and cleaned. My house is pretty clean, it smells nice thanks to my sister-in-law's Scentsy. Sure, I still need to vacuum a few rooms, and mop but all my clutter is put away except my bedroom and I'm tackling that tonight. I am even caught up on laundry, and have it all folded, and I'll get that put away tonight or tomorrow.

Already I know what Sarah Mae meant when she talked about having a "life giving" home, because today as I was home with a sick LW I was able to spend quality time with Princess playing! We colored, and we played play-doh, and we played catch, and played toys....I enjoyed extra snuggles, and cuddles, we danced in the kitchen to our favorite music.......all things I would overlook if I was drowning in my messy, cluttered house.

My house isn't alwasy messy but it seems like when I do let it get that way, I just get in a rut and have trouble getting back out, and it feels SO nice to be home right now.....and with that, I'm off to go switch out my last load of laundry and start to tackle my room.....and I will finish reading the book by Sarah Mae, because she has some wonderful tips, and other suggestions for cleaning that I haven't tackled yet (like the fridge)......but I highly suggest her book, and it's only $4.99 to download right now.

Gas Prices are Stupid!

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

Gas prices are outrageous here! It costs me $90 to fill up my van, and right now while LK is in PreK I have to fill my tank up once a week. That's $360/mo on gas alone. [Good thing I'm learning to coupon so I can cut grocery prices]. I know this dates me but I remember in HS when gas prices were around $1/gal. Why can't it just be like that again. Why does everything have to get so expensive?

One reason we burn through the gas is because LK's school is a 25 min drive one way, twice a day. Talk about miles on the van, and gas being used. In fact I keep having to remind myself that God provides, espcially when we obey Him. The reason he goes to the private school is because that's where we felt God was asking us to take Him. I can't explain it, because unless you have God telling YOU something directly to do it never makes as much sense to someone else (especially so when we're paying the gas).

When we were deciding what to do about LK's school we just kept praying and praying, and we were not finding peace regarding his education. For many reasons. School class sizes in local public schools, and some issues that LK has that make it difficult for him to adjust, and adapt and we didn't know how that would be handled. Not to mention the the fact that we are raising our children to be followers of Christ and that seems difficult if I send them to a public school, for 7 hours or so, a place that continually takes God out of their place, and even forbids it to an extent. [Just for the record I went to a public school, my husband went to a private school].

And so we pursued the closest private school, and were told we couldn't wait until Kindergarten if we wanted in. So that day I dropped everything, drove there and filled out the application. Now I must tell you that the day we got the call we were accepted to the school, we still didn't know how we were going to pay for it....but two days, no kidding, TWO DAYS after we were accepted God provided a very clear way for the tuition for that half of the year.

So now I keep worrying about gas prices, and I keep worrying about how we are going to pay for this...but then I ask myself WHY am I worrying? God has alwasy provided, He has always been very clear and direct with my husband and I, and has even provided in extreme and EXACT ways.....so I wouldn't put it past God to show us when we refigure our budget or when something comes up that we do have the extra, and exact amount of $360 for gas money to take our LK to school.....

....with that note maybe I should go work on our budget.....LOL

Blessings

2011-05-09T16:51:00.000-05:00

I can't really say anything after this.....

Blessings by Laura Story

Mothers Day 2011

2011-05-08T13:47:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, like many of you, that being a mother isn't always easy. Like when you have the baby that cries constantly and never stops, or if they do stop it's only because they've found a permanant place on your hip. Or the toddler who just will NOT learn to go poop in the potty, and you are so sick of cleaning and smelling poop, or when you have a preschooler who is already challenging you, and you are struggling to teach them about obeying their parents and not to argue about it, or question your authority......and all of the above refer to my three kids in this moment.

I would never trade being a mom, sure it's hard work, work we don't get "paid" for, and work that never ends. I will be a mom, teaching my children for MANY years ahead...I have so far to go, and I pray that they will learn, and be trained in the ways of the Lord. I realize that someday my Princess won't always be so cranky and want to be held, and LW will go potty in the toilet and I won't have to carry extra clothes for him, and although LJ may continue to be independent and have his own opinions on things I already see him maturing more and more, and learning to be respectful to not only us but his siblings and others in his life.

Being a mom is a dirty job, but it's also the most blessing filled job of all, and I would never, ever trade that in for one minute....I am so thankful the Lord has blessed me so greatly!

LK, LW, myself and Princess 2011

Princess & Mommy 2011

Typical LW, his personality all the way!

Also portray's LK. He wants his distance! LOL

Mothers Day Lunch 2011

2011-05-08T13:11:00.001-05:00

Princess & Mommy 2011

Yesterday was the Motherday Luncheon. It was so exciting to celebrate motherhood with my daughter, my mother and both of my grandmothers. Our guest speaker was from a local Rescue Mission, and spoke about the need locally for us (all of us) to reach out and love others. There are so many homeless, hungry, lonely, hurting....all of whom need someone who loves them.

She really challenged us to jump in and get involved in serving meals, donating time, and even donating things that they can use. She showed a video of personal testimonies of some of our local homeless and it was so heartbreaking. A homeless pregnant teenage girl (who later lost her baby), a homeless man, and on the exciting side a homeless couple for the past 8 years who finally (after help from the mission) purchased their very own house.

Their home was a house, a roof over their head, heat and air, and running water. It makes me thankful for the provisions have given me in my life, as each room has more than enough furniture, and clothes in the closet. This couple may have a home over their head but they slept on the floor, really there was nothing.

I'm hopnig to find ways our family can soon be involved in helping these local homeless.

Princess & Mommy 2011

Our family at the luncheon

My mom, myself and Princess 2011

My maternal grandma, my mom, myself, Princess, my paternal grandma 2011

Princess & Mommy 2011

Meet Sam

2011-05-07T17:52:00.000-05:00

Let me officially introduce you to the newest member of our household, Sam. Up to date my kids haven't had any pets (we had dogs for 1 yr and found them a new home on a farm, it didn't work out). My friend MM2 gave us one of her goldfish. LK and LW are ecstatic to say the least, but LW is super excited. LW is an animal kinda boy, he loves anything that moves, and wants it to be his pet so he is SO excited he finally has a pet. So far he's tried to put toys in there with Sam, and wanted to dump the entire bottle of fish food in the bowl, and take Sam to Walmart with us, lol.

Meet Sam, I'm sure I'll have funny stories throughout the upcoming weeks about Sam.

Princess Traditions

2011-05-06T23:17:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the annual Mothers Day Luncheon my church puts on every year. I am so thrilled that not only do Princess and I get to attend together, but my mom, and both of my grandma's will be able to attend as well. I also have two ladies I've invited to join us.

This year I decorated with some plates I found on clearance last year, and the middle is the donations for the ministry I work with at church.

Mostly I am so excited to celebrate a fun mothers day lunch with my daughter, and my mom, and my grandmothers. Hoping next year my sister in laws, and my mother in law can join us.

Last year was my first year to attend the Luncheon with a daughter, and I was ecstatic. Obviously having LK and LW I've celebrated Mothers Day for a few years but last year when Princess was born it all just seemed different.

I am just hoping that Princess and I can set this tradition now and attend this luncheon every year. How fun to do this every year, mother and daughter. As she grows older maybe we can decorate our table together. I love the theme this year too "The Least of These" based off of Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

I'll talk more about the Luncheon tomorrow but just like I am hoping for this tradition one thing I am hoping to instill in my daughter, and all my children, is serving others, being selfless, and showing true compassion for others. Already I try to find ways to teach this to my children, and my boys are older now Little King (5), Little Wiseman (3) and they are starting to show that some of it is sinking in already. As soon as we planted our garden LK is talking about who we are going to give our fruit and vegetables to (Now I don't mind sharing but I would like to enjoy some of our produce, lol). I really try to focus my kids on what we can GIVE other people rather than what we can GET from people....we recently donated some food and my kids showered me with questions "why mom, who is this for?". So we have started talking about how some people are homeless, or some people just don't have as much and when God blesses us as Christians we are supposed to share with others, and be good stewards of not just our time and money, but even the things we already have. It is so amazing to see my childrens reactions when we talk about these things.

I'm hoping that not only can Princess and I enjoy this Luncheon together every year, but this year and in the future maybe we can reach out to a mom, and her daughter who just need something. Whether it is poessesions, or maybe they need a friendship, or a project done at the house.....I really am excited to start new traditions with my Princess!!!!

[Look for tomorrows post, I'll have pictures from the Luncheon]

"“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:40

Carry Each Others Burdens

2011-05-05T23:38:00.004-05:00

When reading over Galatians 6:1-10 today, I got stuck on the first part of verse 2, "Carry each other’s burdens". Wow, what a powerful statement...so much so I can hardly move on past that in the scripture. For this point in my life, where I'm at now I identify so much with this portion of the scripture. I tend to be one that really, takes seriously, the burdens of other people. I grieve when they grieve, I hurt when they hurt, and I have literally cried over other peoples burdens before..and become so burdened myself that it has affected my emotional state....so I started to ask you the question "Is there a time when it becomes 'too much' to carry each others burdens?" I still want to know what you think, but as I was typing it an answer popped into my head.....When I think I am carrying someones burden I think I am confusing the verb carry with the verb fix. So I went to http://www.yourdictionary.com/ to see the true definition of the word carry.

to hold or support while moving: to carry a package
to take from one place to another; transport, as in a vehicle: to carry the mail
to hold, and direct the motion of; be a channel for; convey: a pipe carrying water
to cause to go; lead or impel: his ambition carried him to the top
to be a medium for the transmission of: air carries sounds
to transfer or extend: to carry a wall along a precipice
to transfer (a figure, entry, account, etc.) from one column, page, time, etc. to the next in order

I realize by reading that definition, I'm not supposed to FIX the burdens or the cause of burdens for other people, I am called to "hold and support" those around me, to help them "transport" or shift their focus from their burdens to Christ, to be a "channel" for them, reminding them what Christ has promised in His word regarding their situation, to "lead" them to Christ's word, to be a "medium" for them by praying for them, going before our Lord on their behalf, I am called to help them "transfer" their burdens and give them to the Lord......Breaking down the command to carry one anothers burdens makes this much easier to swallow. I guess it doesn't mean that pain isn't involved when you love others, or care for others, or hurt for others....but we don't have to fix the problems, we don't have to fix the people, we don't have to put back torn pieces .....that's what the Lord does, we are only called to CARRY their burdens...............I'm glad I've broken that down because now it makes so much more sense to "carry each others burdens", we are still able to leave the hardest part to God, to FIX everything. I need to remember to work on continuing to carry, just simply carry one anothers burdens. Now I've got to tackle the Scripture further down about not comparing ourselves....this one might take a little longer.....

Where Do I Start?

2011-05-05T11:23:00.000-05:00

(just a reminder I don't use our real names on our blogs because it is not set to private. see sidebar on my blog for description of who the nicknames are for)

I haven't done anything with this blog in so long, I don't really know where to start, I guess I can start with my day today. First off I have GOT to get to bed earlier because I didn't wake up to my alarm cloth this morning, and I quickly got ready so I could wake up LK for school. He's getting easier to wake up but I know he's going to enjoy the fact that school is out on May 20th. He is doing so well in PreK. He is reading, and doing simple math already. He can do addition and subtraction in his head...I don't even think they are teaching him that in school. He is going to a private school, so they are using ABEKA which is what DH used when he was grrowing up, and the same curriculum many homeschoolers use.

So we dropped LK off and headed to run errands. I wasn't sure how that would end up because Princess was quite sleepy. We drove the 25 min drive back from LK's school and filled up with gas, which by the way is RIDICULOUS! $90 for gas? You have got to be kidding me!! We went by a friends donut shop and the kids thought it was fun to actually EAT our donuts at the shop, I'm usually in a hurry and we only go when I need something quick, but it was nice to spend time with LW and Princess just hanging out.

Then comes the fun part...we went grocery shopping. It's only fun because I'm a new couponer, I"m not that great yet but I hope to be. My "average" savings is 50% but I have gotten up to 80%. The key is always take a list, and don't over buy just get the FEW things that are the best deal...and try not to take your kids. Well, I went against ALL those tips and went, coupon binder in hand, no list, with LW and Princess, and bought lots of stuff, however it was all marked down and everything had a coupon. So I spent $87 on $175 worth of groceries, really, I'm not going to complain on getting FREE food so I am pleased with my purchases.

So now I'm sitting in my front yard, blogging while LW is riding his bike around the driveway, it is gorgeous outside today...I do have laundry that needs to be done, groceries to be put away, general cleaning that needs to be done but I would not pass up the chance to let LW play in this beautiful weather, and besides it's a great excuse right?!

I almost forgot, today is the National Day of Prayer. Make sure and say a prayer for our president, and our nation.

I'm Back

2011-05-04T21:06:00.002-05:00

I have had this blog since my oldest was born but lately I really haven't been using it. Christy was on of my origional blogger friends and she recently encouraged me to start blogging again. So, here we go....I can't promise there will be something every day, but I will come back and get back in touch with my blogging friends. Yeah, I'm excited!!

Testing my new app PixelPipe...

2010-06-25T10:01:00.001-05:00

Oh Happy Day....

2010-03-02T14:35:00.003-06:00

Dear Father,

My birthday is coming up soon, the one where I became your daughter, I guess since you are the King of Kings that makes me a true princess! I remember the day well, you kept tugging my heart. It was around Easter and I was eight years old. I sat alone in the living room watching an animated version of the story of your crucifixion and resurrection. As I watched the story portraying you walking out of the tomb, alive, with the nail scarred hands....it hit me that you were SO real, and you loved me SO much, just like you had promised in your Word. I realized that this promise you had for me, of eternal life, it was REAL...not just another fairytale that I would read about.

Oh how I am so thankful that YOU change lives, and that YOU change who I am. Lord I know that all too often I struggle with pride, even though it is usually unintnional...and even at eight I remember that pride. The pride and fear that made me want to keep my feet firmly planted during the invitation and not walk forward for everyone to see that I was NOT perfect and that I DID sin. For months you had been calling me, and in my pride I never took that step, although I fought so hard during every invitation at church that I remember bawling, and tears rolling down my face. Somehow I thought that everyone just had this viewpoint that I was a perfect little girl who had already had you in her life...I thought that because my parents were Christians I would just inherit your kingdom....but I was starting to realize this was something that I had to decide on my own. It took many days of crying, and feeling you call me so strongly that I could NOT resist you any longer.

I remember that day, March 11th 1990 that I knew I could no longer resist you calling my name, and inviting me to be a part of your family. I wanted that forgiveness so bad, I wanted your acceptance so bad, I knew I was not perfect, I knew I sinned, I knew I was full of pride (although I didn't know that word at eight years old). But on that Sunday when it came time for the invitation I took that step, and after the first step each step became easier...and my fear began to melt away with excitement and joy as I KNEW that I was going to be with you someday, and that you loved me and you forgave me.

I can hardly believe it's already been twenty years. Oh Father how that excites me and scares me all in one. I want to continue to grow in you, to serve you, and to love others through you. I am so sorry for all the times I continue to fall short of YOUR glory, and I pray I continue to grow.............OH Happy Day! The day you became my Father....

Thank you for letting me be a part of your family, for forgiving me and accepting me for who I am in my very non-perfect life......I love you Lord!

BG (Baby Girl) 4 month pics

2010-02-25T14:40:00.005-06:00

February 28th BG will be 4 months old. She now tries to sit up (but can't) out of her car seat or anywhere really. She now loves holding toys and bringing them to her mouth to chew on, however if she drops them she has no understanding of where they went! LOL

Here is my beautiful BG.

Baby Girl (3 months old)

2010-01-31T14:27:00.002-06:00

Little Wiseman (2 1/2 years)

2010-01-31T14:24:00.002-06:00

Green Smoothies

2009-12-30T18:49:00.003-06:00

We're on a health kick over in our household. I recently purged our pantry, fridge, freezer of all "bad" food. Out went the chips, crackers, candy and other junk that somehow accumulates. Eating like this makes grocery day much easier! Basically I buy cheese, cottage cheese, 5 dozen eggs, yogurt, fresh fruits, fresh veggies, milk, nuts, whole grain cereals, tortillas, oatmeal and that's just about it.

Anyway, my friend "AN" recently shared a recipe with me for "Green Smoothies" and it is yummy, and healthy. Gives me the sweet for my sweet tooth without compromising the calories, PLUS it's 100% healthy!

Green Smoothie
1 c frozen strawberries
1 frozen banana (although I used a non-frozen and it was fine)
2 c fresh baby spinich
1 c orange juice
Blend strawberries and bananna with 1/2 c juice, then add spinich and remaining juice.

Green Smoothie #2
1 c orange juice
1/2 c frozen strawberries
1/2 c frozen mango
2 c baby spinich
Blend juice and 1 fruit at a time ending with spinich

Not so "Green" Smoothie #3
2 c spinich
1 c OJ
1 banana
1 c bluberries
Blend juice and 1 fruit at a time ending with spinich
***Alternate: replace 1c blueberries with 1/2c blueberries and 1/2c strawberries

Baby Girl (2 mo pics)

2009-12-29T14:16:00.005-06:00

2009-12-26T05:31:00.001-06:00

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! I've really savored time with my husband and kids this year!

--
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Baby Girl (1 month pics)

2009-12-23T17:49:00.002-06:00

Yes, there's a baby....NO I don't have time to blog much....

2009-12-23T17:22:00.003-06:00

Yes I had my baby, she was born on October 28th. She is 8 weeks old today. I've been so busy that I don't have much time to blog, but I had many of you start posting comments that you were still checking my blog and hadn't heard anything in awhile, let alone a picture of the new baby....so I thought I should stop by.

I've actually been using Facebook so much because you can put a quick status and don't have to write paragraphs of information....less time consuming. But I can try to post pics here sometimes, and remember to come and write some of the funny things my boys say!

[I will post pics as soon as I can, my blogger isn't acting right]

My little girl is here...

2009-10-30T05:31:00.002-05:00

My little baby girl was born Wednesday morning, October 28th at 7:54am. She came at a whopping 8lb, 14oz and was 20 3/4" long.

(My two boys were 9lb14oz, and 9lb8oz when they were born).

I am so thankful for my little baby girl! Already I'm planning "mother daughter" outings in our near future, thinking a girls spa day might be nice! *wink* She is so precious! Here are some pictures...

Casserole Recipes (great to freeze)

2009-10-16T21:20:00.003-05:00

Here are several casserole recipes, typically when I prepare a casserole I automatically make two of them. RECIPES ARE AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST.

Then I freeze one and bake one. Then when I need to take a meal to someone or if I don't want to cook that night I can take it out, pop it in the oven, voila dinner is served.
** You can also freeze enchiladas very easy.
** Many crockpot recipes can freeze well too. I have other blog posts with those recipes.

To freeze I use the aluminum disposable 9x13 dishes (by the gladware/tupperware in the store). Cover very well with foil (not the clear plastic lids it sometimes comes with). Then label with the title and cooking directions. When ready to eat thaw overnight in the fridge then put in the oven and bake. If you forget to thaw it, you can still bake it that night but you will have to cook it much longer.

Here is a link about casseroles.
Here is another link about casseroles.

Working Womens Casserole
2 lb hamburger meat
1 can enchilada sauce
1 can ranch style beans
1 can mushroom soup
6 flour tortilla shells
-- shredded cheese
Brown meat & drain. Add enchilada sauce, beans and soup. Cut shells into 1/8’s. Layer tortilla’s, cheese and meat mixture. Microwave for 15 minutes.

6-Layer Dinner
2-3 med potatoes, sliced thin
2-3 cups sliced carrots
1/4 tsp pepper, salt and garlic powder
1/2 sliced onion
1 lb browned ground beef
1 1/2 cups green beans (1 can)
1 can tomato soup
1 can tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheese

Preheat oven to 350. Grease 9x13 dish, layer ingredients (except cheese) in order given and cover. Bake 60-75 minutes (until potatoes are tender). Uncover, add cheese and bake 15-20 more minutes.

Chicken Spaghetti
1 pkg spaghetti noodles
¾ can milk
1 ¾ can cream chicken
4 oz velveta
1 onion
3 chicken breasts, cooked
1 c celery
1 c cheddar cheese, shredded
* pimento’s optional

Cook spaghetti as instructed on package. Layer baking dish ½ full with noodles. Cover spaghetti with bite size pieces of chicken. In sauce pan sauté onion and celery with butter. Add 1 ½ can of cream of chicken soup, ¾ can of milk, 2 inch piece of velveeta, salt and pepper to taste. Pour over chicken and spaghetti. Cover with grated cheese and pimentos on top for color if desired. Heat at 350 degrees for approximately 20 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Mexican Meatloaf
2 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 can of chicken and rice soup
1 sm can of green pepper
1 med jar of picante sauce
1 bag of plain doritos
1/2 lb shredded cheese

Add soups, peppers, and picante sauce to browned and drained hamburger meat. Mix well. Salt to taste. In 9x13 inch pan, alternate layers doritos and meat. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake at 350 for 15-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and meat is bubbly.

Chicken Potato Casserole
10 oz. can condensed reduced fat and sodium cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1-1/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
3-1/2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
1-1/2 cups frozen peppers and onions, thawed
1-1/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1-1/2 cups crushed potato chips

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine soup, sour cream, milk, chicken and 1-1/4 cups cheese. Spread three-quarters of this mixture in a greased 2-quart baking dish.
Sprinkle hash browns and peppers and onions over the top of the casserole and press down lightly, then top vegetables with remaining soup mixture. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and potato chips.

Bake casserole, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. 8 servings

To freeze, assemble casserole as directed, except do not thaw potatoes, peppers, or onions and do not sprinkle with potato chips. Wrap casserole in freezer wrap or heavy duty foil and freeze. Reserve potato chips in pantry. To thaw and bake, let thaw overnight in refrigerator. Uncover and bake at 350 degrees F for 60-70 minutes until bubbly. Then top with crushed potato chips and bake 5-10 minutes longer.

Vegetable Chicken Casserole
8 oz. medium egg noodles
1 cup water
1-1/2 cups chicken broth
16 oz. pkg. frozen broccoli, cauliflower and red peppers, thawed
1 onion, chopped
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Preparation:
In 3 quart microwave safe casserole dish, mix noodles, water and chicken broth. Cover with lid and microwave on high for 6 minutes, stirring once during cooking. Add vegetables, onion, chicken and seasonings. Cover and microwave on high for 7-9 minutes, stirring once during cooking, until vegetables are hot and crisp tender and noodles are tender.
Stir in half of cheese and mix well. Sprinkle casserole with remaining cheese. Cook, uncovered, on high for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.

To freeze casserole, do not thaw vegetables. Cook noodles as directed above and then cool in refrigerator until cold. Add vegetables, onion, chicken, seasonings, and half of cheese; sprinkle with remaining cheese, wrap well, label, and freeze up to 3 months. To thaw and reheat, thaw casserole overnight in refrigerator. Microwave on medium for 3-5 minutes, stirring once. Then microwave on high for 1-3 minutes until noodles and vegetables are tender and casserole is thoroughly heated. 4-6 servings

**I made this in the oven not the microwave. I boiled noodles on the stove, put them in the pan and followed the directions. Except I took the can of Chicken Broth and poured into the casserole after putting noodles in the pan. Then layered everything.

Pizza Spaghetti
1 lb. ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
8 oz. pkg. button mushrooms, sliced OR 2 more bell peppers, chopped
26 oz. jar pasta sauce
8 ounce can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 lb. spaghetti pasta, broken into 2" pieces
3/4 cup whole milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 (5 ounce) package sliced pepperoni
1-1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of water to boil for cooking spaghetti. Cook ground beef, onion, green pepper, and mushrooms in heavy skillet over medium heat until beef is browned, stirring to break up beef. Drain well and add pasta sauce, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning; stir well and let simmer while preparing spaghetti.

Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, combine eggs and milk in large bowl and beat until blended. Drain spaghetti and toss with egg and milk mixture. Spread half of spaghetti/egg/milk mixture in a 13x9" glass baking dish. Top with half of sauce and beef mixture. Repeat layers.

To freeze, cool casserole in refrigerator at this point. When cold, wrap well, label, and freeze up to 3 months. To thaw and reheat, thaw casserole overnight in refrigerator. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees F for 40-50 minutes until thoroughly heated. Uncover, top with pepperoni and cheese, and bake 10-15 minutes longer until cheese melts and edges of casserole bubble.

Avocado Chicken Casserole
¼ c butter or margarine
¼ c all-purpose flour
½ t salt
¼ t thyme
¼ t garlic powder
¼ t onion powder
¼ t dried basil
¼ t marjoram
1 ½ c milk
1 c half-and-half cream
3 avocados, peeled, sliced
3 c chicken, cooked, cubed
2 c (8oz) cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz med. Egg noodles, cooked & drained

Melt butter; stir in flour, seasonings until smooth. Add milk and cream. Brint to boil; cook and stir for 2 min. Remove from heat. In greased 13x9x2” dish, layer half of the noodles, avocados, chicken, white sauce and cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Uncover, bake for 5 minutes or until bubbly.

CHICKEN ENCHILASAGNA
This is as easy as making a throw-together lasagna. Plus, it's nice and lean with a great protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, and it tastes just as decadent as restaurant enchiladas.
2 teaspoons salt-free Mexican
OR Southwest seasoning (such as Mrs. Dash's Southwest Chipotle seasoning)
2 teaspoons lower-sodium burrito seasoning
OR taco seasoning
1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fat removed
Olive oil spray
1 1/4 cups canned traditional mild enchilada sauce
1 cup canned medium green chile enchilada sauce
4 ounces (about 2 cups) finely shredded Light Cheddar cheese
OR your favorite low-fat Cheddar ( i used Kraft 2% milk cheddar)
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup sliced drained black olives
3 tablespoons canned, drained and chopped green chiles
8 (6-inch) white OR yellow corn tortillas

Preheat a grill to high. Mix Mexican seasoning and burrito seasoning in a small bowl. Rub mixture evenly over chicken breasts to cover. Lightly mist both sides of breasts with olive oil spray. Let stand 10 minutes; then place breasts side by side on heated grill. Turn heat to medium, if possible, and grill 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until no longer pink inside. Let stand 5 minutes. Meanwhile, combine enchilada sauces in a medium bowl and mix until well combined. Set aside. Mix cheese, cilantro, olives and chiles in a second medium bowl. Set aside.Coarsely chop chicken breasts. Cut or tear each tortilla into about 9 even pieces. Spread 1/2 cup enchilada sauce in bottom of an 8x8-inch glass or ceramic baking dish. Cover evenly with about 1/3 of tortilla pieces. Then sprinkle about 1/2 of chicken over them.Pour about 2/3 cup of sauce evenly over chicken. Sprinkle evenly with 1/3 of cheese mixture. Repeat layering with 1/2 of remaining tortillas, remaining chicken, 2/3 cup of sauce, then 1/2 of remaining cheese mixture.Follow with another layer of remaining tortillas, remaining sauce and remaining cheese mixture. Cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 450-degree oven 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5 minutes.Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes. Cut into 4 pieces and serve immediately. Makes 1 casserole, 4 servings.
Each serving (1/4 of casserole) has 401 calories, 9 grams fat, 46 grams protein, 32 grams carbohydrate, 1,063 milligrams sodium.

Beef Veggie Casserole
(not sure this one would freeze well)
¾ c water
2 c beef, cubed, cooked
2 c frozen mixed vegetables
2 med potatoes, peeled, cubed, cooked
1 tube (12oz) buttermilk biscuits separated into 10 biscuits
1 envelope mushroom gravy mix
Combine gravy mix and water until smooth. Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 1 min or until thickened. Stir in beef, vegetables and potatoes, heat through.
Transfer to a greased 8” baking dish. Top with biscuits. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 12-16 minutes or until bubbly and biscuits are golden brown.

Santa Fe Chicken Casserole
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp.
olive oil
9 oz. pkg. frozen fully cooked diced chicken
2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
24 oz. jar thick and chunky salsa
1 cup taco sauce
8 corn tortillas
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cojack cheese

Preparation:In medium microwave safe bowl, cook onion and garlic in olive oil on HIGH for 2-3 minutes until tender. Stir in frozen chicken, black beans and salsa. (If freezing, cool onion and garlic mixture before adding frozen chicken.)

In 2 quart glass baking dish, pour taco sauce. Lay four corn tortillas over sauce. Top with half of chicken mixture. Spoon on half of sour cream in small dollops. Sprinkle with half of cheese. Top with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, sour cream and cheese. Cover with foil. At this point, you can wrap the casserole well and freeze up to 3 months.

Bake at 350 degrees for 25-35 minutes until bubbly. Uncover and bake 5-10 minutes longer until cheese is melted. If frozen, thaw casserole overnight in refrigerator, then bake covered at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes until bubbly; uncover and bake 5-10 minutes longer until cheese melts. Serves 6

Christmas Candy Recipes

2009-10-14T23:12:00.001-05:00

Thanks to my friend Kathy Smith for passing this along to me.

Just click on the name of the recipe and it will pull up.

2 Minute Microwave Fudge
5 Minute Fudge
7 Layer Bars
Aaron's Buttery Cashew Brittle
Almond Bark
Amanda's Peppermint Creams
Ann's Cream Nut Candy
Bavarian Inn Peanut Bars
Beth's Delicious Fudge
Brownie Fudge Dessert
Buckeyes
Buckeyes
Butter Toffee
Candied Yams
Candy Bar Brownies
Candy Cane Brittle
Candy Cane Fudge
Caramel Krispie Treats
Caramels
Carmel Corn
Carol's Christmas Treats
Chocolate Almond Bars
Chocolate Balls
Chocolate Billionaires
Chocolate Chow Mein Candy
Chocolate Covered Cherries
Chocolate Covered Nuts
Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls
Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Chocolate Nut Caramels
Chocolate Popcorn
Chocolate Silk Bon Bons
Chocolate Truffels
Christmas Candied Walnuts
Christmas Crackle Candy
Christmas Mice
Chunky Mallow Candy
Cinnamon Hard Candy
Cinnamon Popcorn
Cranberry Nut Fudge
Cream Cheese Candy
Creamy Chocolate Truffles
Creamy Microwave Pralines (Texas Stye)
Crispy peanutbutter balls
Dark Chocolate Fudge
Deborahe's Holiday Chocolates
Disappearing Marshmallow Brownies
Dish of Dirt
Divinty
Dorothy's Peanut Butter/Butterscotch Noodle Cookie
Dreamcicle Fudge
Easy Candy
Easy Divinity
Easy Divinity Easy Divinity Candy
Easy Fudge
Easy Granola Candy
Easy Microwave Carmel
Easy Microwave Fudge
Easy Pecan Logs
English Toffee
English Toffee
English Toffee Bars
Fabulous Fudge
Fake Brittle
Fantasy Fudge
Festive Chocolate Truffles
Five Minute Fudge
Fool-Proof Fudge
Frosted Pecans
Fudge
Brownies
Fudge for One

Fudge Puddles
Georgia Nuggets
Grandma Donna's Nummies
Grandma F's Delicious Fudge
Grandmother' s Holiday Fudge
Hard Candy
Hard Tack Candy
Hazelnut Fantasy Fudge
Ho-Ho Hash
Holly Confection
Honey Comb
J & D's Peanut Butter Balls
Jeanne's Tiger Butter
Jen's Chocolate Meringues
J's Cream Fudge
Kim's Famous Cashew Brittle
Magic Marshmallow Fudge
Mama's Fudge
Maple Rum Balls
Margie's Best Candy
Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Mounds
Marzipan
Melting Moments
Melting Moments
Memaw's Reese's
Meme's Best Ever Peanut Butter Fudge
Meringues
Micky's Mints
Microwave Peanutbutter fudge
Microwave Pralines
Milk Fudge
Milky Way Bars
Million Dollar Fudge
Mimi's Famous Fudge
Mocha Truffles
Mom's Mints
Mr. Monroe's Famous Fudge
Mrs. Eisenhower's Fudge
Never Fail Fudge
Never Fail Fudge
No Bake Rum Balls
No Cook Peanut Butter Fudge
No Fail Fudge
Novia Scotia Treats
Nut Mallow Goodies
Nutty North Pole Fudge
Orange Balls
Orange Glazed Pecans
Out Of This World Fudge
Oven Carmel Corn
Peanut Brittle
Peanut Brittle
Peanut Brittle
Peanut Brittle (Microwave)
Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Bars-An Elve's Favorite Treat
Peanut Butter Candy
Peanut Butter Candy
Peanut Butter Cups
Peanut Butter Cups
Peanut Butter Fruit Squares
Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut Butter Snowballs
Peanut Clusters (mircrowavable)
Peanut Krispies
Peanut Patties

Crock Pot Recipes

2009-10-14T16:25:00.002-05:00