Make-Up Post

I had posted yesterday about a project I am working on. Well...it's not quite ready. I found a few more tweekie stuff that needs to be done. I'm sorry for the burning anticipation let-down but it will have to wait a bit longer. I also apologize for any sleepless nights of excitement and will try to make this post up to you.

Let me see...

How can I make this post exciting?...

What's going on this 30th of May?...

I think something special happened today...

Wait!...

I remember...

I know. I know. Posting about my birthday slightly borders on the line of immature. But no matter how old I get. No matter how poised I try to be. No matter my stage of life. Every year on this 30th day of May, my inner-child comes bursting through wanting to shout "It's My Birthday! It's My Birthday!" With that being said...I'm signing off. I might go take a mid-morning nap or watch a noonday movie. Who knows...I'm off diaper duty today!

Holla at cha later...

Coming Soon...

I have been working on a project idea for a month or so. The project is called Be Still Sunday. If you are anything like me, I don't have time to post anything or even check my email on Sunday. For one, I enjoy that day with my family. And two, I just don't want too. For those of you, myself included, who enjoy keeping current with your postings, I've thought of a new way to get that Sunday post in without taking time away from church or family. You can even auto-save it each week to post on Sunday.

I'll officially post it on Friday. There may be a few kinks but I'll try to work it out to the best of my computer knowledge.

Be sure to tune in...

Who Do You See?

Stare at the four black dots in the center of the image for about 20 seconds. Either look away at a white wall or white piece of paper or close your eyes. The image will appear to you. Who do you see?

Splashes of Color

While taking a few update pictures on my zinnias, I got swept away in all the splashes of color that surrounded me. I had to share with you a taste of what I see each day.

SINamon Rolls Recipe

Something about delicious, devourable, delectable desserts that send women into sugar-frenzy, myself included. Due to the high volume of threats requests, here is the recipe for those ewwey, gooey cinnamon rolls. I've divided the ingredients into 3 steps. You'll understand why once you get going. So...with no further adieu, here it is. Consider yourself sugared.

Homemade SINamon Rolls

Ready in 3 hours. It's worth the wait!!!

Ingredients:

Step 1: (The Dough)
1 cup warm milk (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
2 eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup margarine, melted
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 white sugar
1 packet yeast

Step 2: (The Filling)
1 cup brown sugar
2 1/2 Tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup butter, softened

Step 3: (The Icing)
1 (3 oz) package cream cheese
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

1. Warm milk until it reaches desired temperature. I put the milk in a glass canning jar and put the jar in a pot of water, bringing the water to a boil. I gauged the temperature using a candy thermometer. Once milk reaches desired temperature, dissolve the package of yeast in milk. (About 5-10 minutes). Using a GLASS bowl, not metal, mix in sugar, margarine, salt, and eggs. Add sifted flour and mix well. (Now's a good time to take off the rings :) Knead dough in bowl with lightly floured hands. Put in a warm place to let rise. I preheated my oven to 200 degrees and then TURNED IT OFF. I placed a damp wet paper towel over the bowl and placed the bowl in the warm oven for 1 hour. It should double in size.

2. After dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.

3. Roll dough into a 16x21 inch rectangle. I don't have a rolling pin so I just used a smooth drinking glass. Spread dough with 1/3 cup butter (use your hands, it's fun) and sprinkle evenly with sugar/cinnamon mixture. (It looks like a lot, but it's just enough). Roll up dough and cut into 12 rolls. Place rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan. I placed wax paper down and buttered that. It worked well. Preheat oven to 200 degrees and TURN OVEN OFF. Cover with a damp paper towel and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes.

4. Take dough out of oven and preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake rolls in preheated oven until golden brown, about 13-15 minutes. While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Spread frosting on warm rolls before serving. Remove rolls from wax paper to avoid sticking.

Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy!

The Unanswered Whys

Why?

A word that typically poses a question of some sort. A word often spoken by a tenacious toddler who is discovering the world around. A word that even follows us into our adulthood. A question that so often doesn't convey a clear, definitive answer lest the reason for its continual usage. This question maybe muttered when perplexed or perhaps when searching for answers. But it's when this word is spoken with anguish and accompanied by streaming tears when it possibly makes the deepest cut in us.

Last night, singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman and wife, Mary Beth lost their 5 year old daughter to a horrific accident. For one, I cannot fathom this deep internal pain from which was caused by this occurrence. I can't help but ask the question, "Why, Lord? Why?"

Does that question lessen my faith? Does it denounce my love for Christ if I pose such an off-balance statement? Often Christians are expected to be pillars of strength even during devastation. To question God may display weakness in some eyes. Where can we go in shaking times such as these to find the answers?

It is only natural for us to ask such questions during certain times and certainly doesn't mean our commitment to God is broken. We are not always provided with the clear-cut answers to our pondering questions however, we can stand on the assurance that God will never leave nor forsake us. I pray that the arms of God will wrap tightly around this family. I pray that although their burden is quite heavy and almost unbearable at times, they will find peace and comfort that comes only from the power of God. The grieving process is long, painful and grave. Let us not forget not only this family, but all who suffer from loss and tragedy.

May the grace of Christ our Savior, and the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen.

Homemade SINamon Rolls

Occasionally, I'll get in kicks of trying new recipes. Ending products usually result in either "Betty Crocker move over" or "What on earth is that?" Last night I got an urge to make homemade cinnamon rolls. Not the box kind, or even the refrigerated kind. The patiently wait 3 hours until done kind. I have a tendency to shy way from anything that calls for yeast. One, because I've been known to kill it and two, I've been known to cook it undissolved. Yuck! However last night, I tackled it once more. I am so glad I did. My hubby selflessly volunteered to be the official taste-tester once finished. He's so sacrificing.

After kneading, and stirring, and rising, and waiting...the end product was mouth-watering, if I do say so myself. I wish I could upload a scent device for you to smell the hot, cinnamon/sugar rolls. This was a first time attempt and now a keeper in the recipe book!

WARNING: If dieting, do not proceed. The following pictures may cause visual weight-gain.



Before

After

Betty Crocker, move on over!!!

Quote of the Year

"I can't find my GPS."

(Inspired by Mom)

Pressures of Today's Youth

This past Sunday was Youth Sunday. The singing, children's message, dramatic skits and dance, and preaching were all forms of leadership that were displayed by these youth. My heart was moved on various levels during this worship service (and it wasn't only because I got to sit next to pastor-hubby the whole time). Such a vulnerable age, I was so encouraged by the boldness these youth displayed. I am so proud to be apart, and have-been apart, of churches that support their youth and allow them opportunities to participate in worship using their own "flavor".

During one part of the service, they performed a dramatical skit of real-life issues that they face. These pressures included relationships, money, self-image, drugs/alcohol, self-mutilation, and even suicide. Folks, these are real and prominent in the schools and teenagers are affected one way or another by these issues. These pressures are from magazines, television, movies, video games, even through their friends.

Although I am aware of many of these pressures and issues (not being that far removed from high school myself) I could not stop crying during the skit. My heart not only ached for these teenagers that endure such obstacles each day, but my tears were also for my own son. I want to protect him so desperately from harm and destruction. His innocence is so precious and how I long to preserve that.

As a church, we have a responsibility to young people. A responsibility to be emotionally and physically available. These issues will not go away and cannot be ignored. However we can be available for converstaion and discussion about these particular pressures. If we do not confront these issues in church, young people will come face-to-face with them elsewhere.

Satan's army is powerful and looking for every opportunity to destroy what is good and right. The church's responsibility is great. We must not pretend that everything is "fine". These youth need us more than ever.

If you would like to view a similar skit to the one our youth performed you may click below. The skit is somewhat graphic and addresses heavy issues. Please use your own discression with young children.

To My Mothers, With Love

Mother's Day has come and gone, however I wanted to take this opportunity to express my deep love and appreciation for my mother(s).

My biological mother. She is gentle and patient. Slow to anger yet firm in her beliefs. Her sweet spirit is forever loving and forgiving. Her smile is so sincere and her laughter so rich. Her life is a testimony to others and myself. Such a natural with children, I contribute much of my love for children and teaching to her. She is well-read and traveled. My mother is very creative, being an accomplished cross-stitcher and handbell ringer. She is loved by a Christian man (my father) who has been faithful and encouraging their 30+ years of marriage. Together they layed the firm foundation to which I was raised. I am so blessed to have been raised by such a Christian Woman.

My Mother-In-Law. A term I seldom use nor like, for this does not describe my relationship to my husband's biological mother. She is a godly woman who strives to serve Him in all things. She is a wonderful cook and servant. She places her family above herself. She has embraced me as a daughter for which I am so grateful. She is also loved by a Christian man who is a strong example in the family. Together, they are a living example of a committed marriage deeply rooted in love, forgiveness, and laughter. I am so thankful that my husband was raised by such a Christian Woman.

My Mothers. So different, yet so similar. Together they bring such a natural balance into my life. They both love me. They both care for me. They both guide me. They both encourage me. Thank you, Mothers for your living example of what a Christian mother should be. I can only hope to be the loving mother you are to me. I love you both very much!

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;

but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."

Proverbs 31:30

The Good Earth and Each Other

My family and I just got back from a church trip to the Amish Country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. For three days we toured the lifestyle of the Amish while indulging in a little of the cultured fix ins'. Have you ever heard of Shoo-Fly Pie? or Whoopie Pie? Yum...Yum. While the Amish are viewed by some as "backwards", there is truly something to be said about this close-knit community. Living without the modern conveniences of today's world, these people are surviving on the soil of the good earth and each other.

Gorgeous countryside. You won't see any power lines connected to these homes. They are solely powered by water pumps. They tend to their fields using only horse drawn plows. No metal wheels, only rubber. The saying goes, if you put gasoline in, you get smoke out. Hence the reason for using only horses. Due to their unbelievably fertile soil, one field will produce more crop than any other fields in the USA.

Now that's a clothes line. They do have washing machines, powered by water, but no dryers. It was explained to us, sun-dried in the summer, freeze-dried in the winter. Such well manicured yards certainly puts mine to shame.

One form of transportation is horse-drawn buggies. No cars. Being that they can only go about 5-10 miles each trip is a good reason to "stay close to home". Other ways of transportation are walking, scooters but no bicycles. The chain on a bike is seen as a "connection" to the world and is forbidden. Only married couples are allowed to ride in a covered buggy together.

They believe strongly that you are born to work. Tending to the land, raising children to become a productive part of the community, and serving God in all things are the most important aspects of the Amish life. To die is knowing you lived life to the fullest. The tombstones in this Amish cemetery represent what they hope to be...simple. No personal epitaphs, no fancy designs, no pictures. Nothing unnecessary. Each tombstone is about the same shape bearing only the name of the deceased, their relationship to the community, and their birth/death date. The various sized tombstones represent the ages of the deceased. Smaller tombstones mark the place of young children or babies.

This is a replica of a one-roomed Amish School House. They only teach up to 8th grade, for any further education is thought to be unnecessary. Their teacher is usually a younger girl, possibly just finishing grade school herself. While on tour, I asked the guide one "teacher" burning question I had. "How do you maintain such discipline and respect?" His reply was straight-forward and prompt...spanking, of course.

We saw the production of Daniel and the Lions' Den at the Sights and Sounds Millennium Theatre. This phenomenal play kept even our 10 month old's attention. A must-see!

We then ventured over to Hershey, Pennsylvania to the Chocolate Factory. My mouth is drooling as I type. Chocolate, chocolate everywhere!

We took a short ride that explained how chocolate is made. It is not a quick process, therefore, on behalf of all of us chocolate-lovers, thank you Mr. Hershey!

We even taste-tested Chocolate BBQ Sauce! Even for the chocolate-crazed person I am, that was a bit much. Doesn't it sound so yummy next to the Ranch dressing? I'll pass...

While taking family orders via cell phone, hubby was fumbling through my purse searching for extra cash.

All the while, baby and I got sucked into the realm of my favorite form of chocolate, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.

We had a wonderful trip of fun and fellowship. Although I have a new appreciation and respect for the Amish and their way of life, I do enjoy the modern conveniences of today. Yep...I'm an AC (air-conditioning) kinda-girl!

To learn more about the Amish Community visit here.

For the Beauty of the Earth

While driving around with family, we came upon this majestic overlook. We stopped to partake in the beauty of God's artistic hand.

"Great are the works of the Lord:
they are pondered by all who delight in them." Psalm 111:2

A Blessing For My Son

(inspired by Memaw)

My baby's little feet
So innocent, so sweet.

Inch by inch you grow
Oh, the places you will go.

Up the moutains, will you trod?

Through the pastures, in the sod?

Wading along the riverside,

Along the salty ocean you may abide.

Laughter may come from blades of grass that tickle,

Hope for shelter against the world's cold prickle.

Across hot sands you may lead,

Or following the steps of another, you may need.

Now I protect from blisters and scrapes,

Too soon will you plead the chance to escape.

Your feet one day will tell a great story,

May each of your steps follow closely to God's glory.

No, I'm Not Crazy

What is this star rating thingamajiggie that keeps mysteriously showing at the end of my posts? Has anyone else seen it? One day it's there, another it's gone. And no, all you LOST fans, I do not see Leonard.

What can I do to get rid of it? Please tell me I'm not the only one that's seen it. Relieve me of this burden. :)

Bulletin Blooper

"Hello to Everyone!" This was the mass email greeting my pastor husband meant to send out to the church.

Technology is great. It blows my mind how quickly I can communicate with others at the click of a button. I have to admit, the most valuable button to me is the spell check. I am a terrible speller. I mean very speller-challenged. I know what you're thinking...and you've taught elementary school? Look people, that's why I stay in the lower grades. I can handle cat, hat, and mat. It's when I run into silent letters like in opossum...or is it possum? None the less, I really rely on that convenient spell checker. With those great conveniences always come a down-fall. Although the spell check browses for unknown words, it doesn't catch grammatical errors. If it's a real word, it slides right over it regardless if it makes sense in the sentence or not. If I'm too lazy to do the spell-checker (pathetic, I know) I'll ask my secondary source of spelling knowledge, hubby.

Just last week my husband sent out a mass email...did you catch that...MASS email to the church workers who have volunteered their time to work with the children's ministry. Usually he'll begin his emails with a positive greeting or heading. Instead of typing "Hello to Everyone", he greeted his new congregation with "Hello" without the "o".

I'll give you a second...

The following Wednesday night Bible Study, he was greeted by several church members with that same greeting. Somewhat taken back, my husband didn't know what to think of this strange phrase. Again, we're new to the area. Maybe it's an inside joke, only we we're still on the outside. Later, he was informed of his ironic typo. Thank goodness, people have a sense of humor. Sometimes all you can do is laugh.

I think next time, it wouldn't hurt for me to grammar-check his emails before he sends them out to the congregation. The speller-challenged wifie doesn't look so bad now, huh?!?

A Bundle of Joy

A member of our church gave my husband and I some Gerber Daisies. Along side Zinnias, these are my other favorite flower. I can't help but to smile when I look at them.

My First Award

Much thanks to Ruthie for this award. It's always been easier for me to give recognition than to receive it, however this brought a smile to my face. This being my first award, I can envision myself in a Dolce & Gabbana satin gown wearing stiletto heels trying to thank all of those who helped me get to this point. Instead, I'm sitting in front of a computer screen wearing sweatpants and socks and the one person I want to thank is "Just Ruthie", for her thoughtfulness in giving this award. Thank you, Ruthie!

I understand that my duty now as an award recipient, is to pass it along to other blogger-friends who have displayed characteristics of "kindness". This is not an easy thing for me to decide, for I always shy away from circumstances that might "hurt someone else's feelings". However, I hold my duty very seriously, therefore would like to pass this award to...

Tracy of My Cup Runneth Over

If you read Tracy's profile it begins with the word "Happily". She also ends her comments with "Happy Friday" or a smiley face. Tracy, your cheery disposition is why I think you are deserving of this award.

AND

Angela of Thoughts From Dimple Queen

Angela has been going through so much during this time, and yet she continues to remain positive. Angela, I hope this kindness award brings a smile to your face and can be a reminder that in the midst of chaos, God is our one true form of stability.

I've passed the torch and will now exit down the red carpet...

My Nana

May 1 marked the 7th year since my grandmother's death to cancer. Time ticks along as if this is just another date, however, this day holds much weight within my heart. I can't help but to reminisce about her ministry, battle with breast cancer, and victory over it. Her smile was so sincere and her laugh so contagious. Always placing others before herself, she displayed what it meant to be a servant to all. I know this post is not dated May 1st, however, it's been quite difficult for me to find the words that could so eloquently describe My Nana.

My sister and I eagerly awaited the days we could go stay with Nana and Grandad. Grandad always gave us $10 to go buy a coke (I wasn't going to be the one to tell him that a can of coke didn't cost that much). Nana faithfully left "goodies" under our pillow for us to discover the following morning. Sometimes it was candy, other times it was silver dollars. Nonetheless, it was from Nana and that was all that mattered. She always left a note with her surprise that said, "I love you thiiiiiissssssss much". Sometimes I would lay in bed pretending to be sleeping, just so I could hear her creep quietly into the room. I loved to feel the brush of her hand underneath my pillow as I eagerly awaited what morning goody I would find.

There was no question when asked where we wanted to go eat. It was always to McDonalds. I think one of my first words was "M Donls" thanks to my Nana. She let us eat there for all 3 meals one time, on the solemn promise that we wouldn't tell Mom. To this day, I'm sure Mom never figured it out!

Years passed and my Nana became sick. Being 11 years old, I didn't quite understand the complexity of her sickness but I noticed a change in her appearance. Her hair began to fall out and her right arm began to swell due to Lymphoma. The swelling got so bad, she had to learn to rewrite using her left hand. Mom and Dad did their best to try and explain about this horrific illness to me and my sister. It was not easy to watch her suffer, though she would never complain. More important to her was for tummies to be full and the laughter to continue.

The last family vacation we took with my Nana was up to Alaska. Her and Grandad began a ministry in AK and would dedicate 3 months every summer to that ministry. One summer, Mom, Dad, sister, and I went up to help in that ministry. I didn't realize at the time, but that trip was a way for Nana to say "goodbye" to the friendships she had dedicated so much of her life towards. That was her last trip to AK.

For 9 years she fought against cancer. Within those 9 years she never denied her faith nor her Maker. After those 9 years, I was never the same.

Today, I carry in my wallet one of the last notes My Nana left underneath my pillow. I was 20 years old. In crooked left-handed writing, it says, "Precious Granddaughter #1- Keep the SON in those beautiful eyes. I love you thhhiiiiiisssss much."

My Sweet Nana, I miss you thhhiiiissss much!

How To Scroll-Out Your Next Post

Okay, I don't claim to be a bloggy expert, however I have been doing some reading on the whole HTML code stuff. I've had several of you email and comment on my scrolling text. I've divided up the directions into two color coded sections: Basic and Fancy. (Can you guess I'm an elementary school teacher?) So, if you're curious, stay with me.

For the BASIC scrolling text, use this code:

<marquee>YOUR TEXT HERE</marquee>

Of course, replace YOUR TEXT HERE with the words or sentences you want to scroll.

Now, if you want to get real FANCY, you can add background color to your scrolling text just like I did with my post title. Use this code:

<marquee bgcolor="#663399"> YOUR TEXT HERE</marquee>

The bgcolor stands for "Background Color" and 663399 is the number combination that represents the color purple. If you'd like to use a different background color simply change those letters to your color of choice using this color chart. I printed out a copy for quick reference.

Good luck and happy scrolling!

I expect to see it on your next post


I'm an official nerd

My Zinnias-Good News and Bad News

The Good News: It's working! My professional greenhouse is working! Just yesterday I peeped inside and saw tiny sprouts popping up. I am so excited I don't know what to do. I remember reading that I was supposed to do something really important once I saw sprouts so I ran to get the greenhouse instructions...

The Bad News. My hubby accidentally threw it away! Oh no! I refuse to let them die! I am bound and determined to have a bouquet of cheery zinnias adorning my breakfast table, even if I have to go to Wal-Mart again.