tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13637393481905527182012-02-16T22:30:20.740-05:00Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.comBlogger5331100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-5760008735691746992012-02-16T12:20:00.000-05:002012-02-16T12:20:29.644-05:00

It's been like Christmas in February this week as publicists have sent me many goodies to review for my book review blog, Books and Chocolate. I have lots of reading to do and crafts and recipes to try over the next few weeks: ***** Dear son (soon to turn 18...ack!) placed first in his baritone sax solo and the saxophone ensemble (quartet) he was part of, qualifying him to go to the state

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-22123118776807807692012-02-10T13:02:00.005-05:002012-02-10T15:35:09.216-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is gray and cold with some snow forecast.  I am thinking...As a Christian, it's sometimes difficult when confronted by a loved one or a genuinely nice person, and especially another Christian, who wants justification for their lifestyle choices but I have to take a stand and say (in the most respectful way possible)

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-17581715348108781042012-02-02T11:04:00.001-05:002012-02-02T11:04:55.238-05:00

(I wrote this in 2009 but found myself revisiting the same sentiment today so I'm posting it again.) (photo from internet source, not mine) Alexandra Stoddard said, "Single days experienced fully add up to a lifetime lived deeply and well." It is good advice. So many times I save up real living for later or for special occasions and trudge through daily life in the meantime. How much better to

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-43568316435353245102012-01-27T10:43:00.007-05:002012-01-31T07:24:35.713-05:00

The winner is: Nancy (Mom in a pocket).  Congrats!  I'll get these mailed to you today!True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 3 Powered by RANDOM.ORG Valentine's Day is just around the corner so I'm celebrating early with a card giveaway for my blog followers! This is a set of four (2 of each design) photo Valentine cards featuring conversation hearts candy with messages.  The

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-77871196025816888832012-01-25T10:33:00.002-05:002012-01-25T14:15:19.804-05:00

One of my struggles in my faith is feeling that I'm not consistent in my walk with the Lord and I think that comes from my lack of confidence in who he is at times.  I've been focusing on the names of God because through them, I discover more about his character, and as I discover more of who he is, I am able to respond in faith. I like how Renee Swope says it in her book, A Confident Heart:"

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-2650812281088169432012-01-19T14:28:00.002-05:002012-01-19T14:33:22.446-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is cold and snowy with more coming tomorrow.  I am thinking...that I need to refill the bird feeder.  I do it mostly for the cardinals but those greedy little sparrows eat it all up! lol  I am thankful for...a warm, cozy house and a cup of hot homemade mocha latte. From the kitchen...is a clean countertop!  The

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-35056906618219413742012-01-15T10:44:00.002-05:002012-01-15T10:46:45.814-05:00

"The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on earth, in the seas and all their depths." - Psalm 135:6 "We can take comfort in the stubbornness of God, that part of his character that insists we arrive on the shores of his new heaven and new earth safe and sound, even if it means he has to say no to us ten thousand times in getting us there." - John Snyder, Your 100 Day Prayer This

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-60037062367456892912012-01-09T21:40:00.001-05:002012-01-09T21:41:46.031-05:00

I had never heard of this woman until I saw a pin on Pinterest about her.  I did an online search and confirmed that her story is true. Irena Sendler 1910-2008 A 98 year-old German woman named Irena Sendler died in 2008. During WWII, Irena worked in the Warsaw Ghetto as a plumbing/sewer specialist. Irena smuggled Jewish children out; infants in the bottom of the tool box she carried and

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-35351859269113454432011-12-30T11:57:00.001-05:002011-12-30T11:59:04.708-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...It's cold and rainy outside, but inside it is warm and cozy.  I've put away the Christmas decorations and the bare Christmas tree is ready to be taken away.  I am thinking...that this Christmas was one of the best we've had.  I am thankful for...laughter...and reasons to laugh.  We did a lot of it over the holiday.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-84631940706671501772011-12-26T09:10:00.002-05:002011-12-27T09:52:13.223-05:00

I don't make New Year's Resolutions per se, but I do take time to re-evaluate my life and determine what I can do better. I ususally choose a word that sums up what I want to change and for 2012 that word is "generosity". I've seen how gracious and generous God is, especially in this past year for my family, and I want to pay forward that kind of grace. My tendency is to hang on to what comes

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-79416118796658285782011-12-16T13:32:00.003-05:002011-12-16T13:33:53.825-05:00

Have you ever wondered what must have been going on behind the scenes in heaven as Immanuel - God With Us - prepared to come as our Savior? Following is an excerpt from the book Cosmic Christmas by Max Lucado. It's a book I read every holiday season. The story is told from the angel Gabriel's perspective as a battle brews to prevent God's plan from being carried out. (Note: Cosmic Christmas is

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-48542703367672302062011-12-13T10:31:00.003-05:002011-12-16T09:33:44.029-05:00

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 8 Result: 2 Powered by RANDOM.ORG The winner is: Lorraine (LDH).  Congrats!  I'll get this in the mail today. This is an ornament I made, featuring a dark blue image of an angel playing a flute. The image is on white card stock, embellished with glitter, and enclosed in a plastic case approximately 2" x 3", with a white and silver ribbon bow. Just

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-11268709199653324082011-12-09T15:22:00.002-05:002011-12-13T10:22:25.430-05:00

Have you ever been the recipient of a donated box of food?  Our daughter received one a few years ago after she lost her job and became a volunteer at our church during the worst of the recession.  Unemployed volunteers in a program our church sponsored were given boxes of food from a local food drive organization (not part of our church). What she received was shameful.  Let me be clear that I

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-85003783769731395702011-12-08T11:18:00.003-05:002011-12-08T15:49:12.594-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...It's cold outside, but no snow remains from what we got last week.  I am thinking...I need some new picture frames for our fireplace mantle.  The ones I have are old and dated. I am thankful for...a room of my own.  When we added a family room to our home several years ago, and everyone quit using the old living room,

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-5137654123394499612011-12-02T09:14:00.002-05:002011-12-02T16:16:12.550-05:00

I have a lot of random thoughts going on in my menopausal brain today and to be honest, as foggy-brained as I get at times, it's nice to have some clarity on even a few things so I'm getting them in the blog while I can! This was my Bible study this morning from Your 100 Day Prayer by John Snyder: "The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-42165887935203246172011-12-01T07:19:00.000-05:002011-12-01T07:19:08.517-05:00

Actually, in our family, we only did the first one.  With money often tight, and having four kids, we would buy them each one thing they really wanted (within our budget, of course).  They never had the expectation that Christmas meant getting tons of gifts. Even so, I like the idea behind this suggestion, especially giving them one thing to read.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-86635592218243652042011-11-26T19:14:00.002-05:002011-11-27T18:24:19.436-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...It is raining.  It's been pretty mild but colder temps with some snow is on the way.  I am thinking...that we had such a nice Thanksgiving this year.  The noise level was a little high with five little ones visiting but overall it was a great time. I am thankful for...a warm home and that every need is met.  From

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-72765197549659045392011-11-20T17:50:00.002-05:002011-11-20T17:55:53.091-05:00

Recent creations: I love the simplicity of these cards with just a touch of sparkle with the jewel centers.  I made them with red, blue, pink, purple, and clear embellishments: Another Christmas card: Some Christmas gift tags:  

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-44371732659156172642011-11-12T12:23:00.002-05:002011-11-12T12:26:32.057-05:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...there is a beautiful blue sky with lots of sunshine.  Most of the trees are bare now, but there is one small maple sapling that is holding on to most of its red leaves as the last hold-out in the neighborhood.  I am thinking...about Thanksgiving coming in up a couple of weeks and the work to be done between now and

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-75272650771599690052011-11-08T08:10:00.001-05:002011-11-08T08:12:14.967-05:00

I've never been one to take the road less traveled willingly. I like things to be safe and familiar even if it means boring. It comes as no surprise, then, that I cannot recall a time when I attempted the impossible or took a chance on doing something completely out of my comfort zone. It isn't so much that the opinions of others have swayed me, but rather that I have stood in my own way. It’s

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-37921683952148528402011-11-03T11:22:00.000-04:002011-11-03T11:22:48.116-04:00

I love Marla's blog, Always Nesting, and Debbie's blog, Heart Choices.  You will recall several posts ago that I was so inspired by Marla's gift tags that I went out and bought supplies and became addicted to making them myself. Recently, both women recommended Pinterest to me.  I wasn't interested, as I said in a post a couple of days ago.  But, out of fairness and friendship, I decided to have

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-38170792516641163432011-11-02T13:34:00.001-04:002011-11-02T13:46:09.699-04:00

I am a great-aunt.  I don't get to do brag posts about grandkids yet so here's the next best thing.  Our niece, Karen, had her second baby yesterday, a son born three weeks early on 11/1/11.  (Cool number for a birthday!)  She was so glad he wasn't born on halloween.  And she was only in labor for about 4 hours!  How do they do that?? lol There's a story behind all this.  Karen's mom (my

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-49092867129519116532011-11-01T10:09:00.004-04:002011-11-01T13:59:53.104-04:00

I feel obligated to maintain my blogging but some days I just don't have anything significant to share so I'm afraid today all I have are snippet thoughts: A few months ago, amidst all the media hype surrounding Kim Kardashian's wedding, my son asked what the big deal was.  We discussed the silliness of reality t.v. celebrities who are media hounds more than anything, and I commented then that

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-33623126550086190012011-10-28T09:54:00.002-04:002011-10-28T10:14:15.471-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...there is a white frosting over everything.  It was only in the 30's this morning but the sun is out so it should warm up as the day progresses.  I am thinking...that a vacation would be nice.  Just some kind of getaway for a weekend for a change of scenery. I am thankful for...a warm, comfortable home.  It isn't a

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-31657294775358267282011-10-25T12:54:00.001-04:002011-10-25T12:58:18.364-04:00

"When we're tempted to think that we'll never make it on our own or that we'll never be holy enough or good enough to get there...we're right. We never will. We never can. But we don't have to. That's the good news! Jesus outfits us for the journey. He finds us where we are (in our distrust, confusion, and wandering), equips us to get through this life (through our pain, losses, and grief), then

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-73461174668384465112011-10-23T13:26:00.001-04:002011-10-23T13:32:20.906-04:00

"When you look at a cupcake, you've got to smile." - Anne Byrn One thing most people don't know about me is that I can decorate cakes (took all the Wilton classes).  My favorite things to do are cookies, cupcakes and petit fours but there's something about a pretty little cupcake that appeals to me.  Maybe it's because with a cupcake, each person gets their own complete cake with a pretty icing 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-27746449074983579862011-10-18T09:36:00.004-04:002011-10-18T09:42:15.675-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is overcast with rain coming.  There are still leaves on the trees but a lot of them seem to be falling before changing color.  I think our peak is over.  I am thinking...that the "Occupy Wall Street" demonstrations do reflect the frustration of people but that they are clueless about what the true cost is of what

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-75046783615982169082011-10-15T20:09:00.000-04:002011-10-15T20:09:17.133-04:00

"Because we live in this fallen world that is yet to be fully redeemed, we can only glimpse the fullness of God's shalom. Sometimes we sense this kind of peace as we worship with others or as we pray quietly or when forgivenss is asked for and received. Shalom is life as it should be. Bent things are straightened. Hurt things are healed. The Bible locates shalom in only one place - in God

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-84002231117418689422011-10-12T13:02:00.001-04:002011-10-12T14:55:47.737-04:00

(photo by DashRecipes.com - I didn't take a photo of my recipe but they looked a lot like this.) Buffalo Chicken Fingers with Blue Cheese-Chive Dip (serves 4) From Robin Takes 5 cookbook by Robin Miller 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders 1/4 cup sriracha hot sauce 1/2 cup light sour cream 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese 1 tablespoon chopped fresh

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-42928102328342837262011-10-10T10:24:00.001-04:002011-10-10T10:25:42.120-04:00

"Submitting self to God is the only real freedom - because the deepest slavery is self-dependence, self-reliance.  When you live your life believing that everything (family, finances, relationships, career) depends primarily on you, you're enslaved to your strenghs and weaknesses.  You're trying to be your own savior.  Freedom comes when we start trusting in God's abilities and wisdom instead of

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-19441105186658749292011-10-07T08:14:00.003-04:002011-10-07T08:22:08.746-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...A beautiful pink dawn is breaking.  I am thinking...about Thanksgiving and all I need to do between now and then and am deciding that I'm willing to host Thanksgiving for everyone, but not Christmas.  It's just too much work to do both just one month apart.  I am thankful for...a whole week of gorgeous weather that

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-1578623073096761042011-10-03T07:32:00.000-04:002011-10-03T07:32:54.504-04:00

"The biblical writers were all on the same page when it came to believing that God is in control of all things and that nothing can happen that he doesn't first review and allow. He's never in a position of wringing his hands in confusion; he's never surprised at what occurs on earth; he's never wondering what to do next." - From Your 100 Day Prayer by John Snyder. This gives me hope because

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-81958075182986138032011-09-28T14:47:00.002-04:002011-09-28T15:27:26.586-04:00

Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Fabrics, and Michael's Crafts are dangerous places for me but I visited all three this week.  It's Marla's fault.  She has this cool, crafty blog called Always Nesting and featured these very pretty gift tags.  She implied that making them was addicting but did I listen?  Noooo.  Instead, like a moth drawn to the flame, I went in search of supplies. Here are some of the tags 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-22453206168029513812011-09-26T07:16:00.004-04:002011-09-26T07:29:06.196-04:00

I mentioned this dish in my simple woman's daybook entry a few days ago and have had some requests for the recipe.  Here it is: Baked Nachos 1 can refried beans 1 jar salsa 1 cup sour cream 1 lb. cooked ground beef Taco seasoning or chili powder, to taste 2 cups shredded cheese (mexican blend, cheddar, or monterey jack) In an 8" square baking dish spread the refried beans, then pour the salsa

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-68021900356252614542011-09-25T12:10:00.002-04:002011-09-25T12:26:07.542-04:00

Excerpt from an article by Paul Proctor: "I continue to be both saddened and disturbed by how many professional Christians there are today that are more interested in advancing their own ministries and agendas than they are the Word of God – and frankly, it shows because far too many spend their time and effort talking about we, me and mine – promoting and defending themselves, their feelings,

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-71867713750059611932011-09-23T14:09:00.000-04:002011-09-23T14:09:07.448-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...Fall is becoming more evident with colorful leaves on the maple trees.  I am thinking...how blessed I am.  Today every need is met.  I'm also thankful for God's peace that has surrounded us since the bad news about my husband's job (pay cut).  We rest in the truth that God is our provider, period.  Right now he is

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-49917955414904471432011-09-21T14:25:00.000-04:002011-09-21T14:25:59.518-04:00

This is something I wrote in 2009 that I am reposting today because I need to hear it again.  I've let daily life put me in a rut. Alexandra Stoddard said, "Single days experienced fully add up to a lifetime lived deeply and well." It is good advice. So many times I save up real living for later or for special occasions and trudge through daily life in the meantime. How much better to make

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-77363252726907561322011-09-16T06:59:00.001-04:002011-09-16T10:03:07.950-04:00

"The word impossible isn't part of God's vocabulary. It's a word we thought up on our own, and we think it carries lots of weight. But it does so only when we subtract God from the formula. If there's no God, the kind of God portrayed in the Bible, then we would have every right to think that there are all kinds of impossible things in the world." - from Your 100 Day Prayer by John I. Snyder

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-9892667050501999142011-09-13T07:42:00.000-04:002011-09-13T07:42:10.958-04:00

Fall is my favorite season for a lot of reasons.  One is the arrival of Jonathan apples, my favorite fruit.  Of course, I think they are best enjoyed as they come right from the tree but they are also great for apple crisp.  My recipe includes sliced Jonathan apples sprinkled with cinnamon and placed in a baking dish (I add a couple of tablespoons of water to keep the apples moist while baking)

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-25584157098120770562011-09-09T10:58:00.002-04:002011-09-09T11:31:34.226-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is cloudy and cool after some rain.  I also have noticed just a touch of color beginning to emerge on some of the maple trees. I am thinking...about my husband.  Bad news from his job involves a pay cut which won't sustain us for very long.  He is trying to not show it but I can see the concern in his eyes.  Prayers

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-22455679591811140722011-09-06T12:32:00.001-04:002011-09-06T12:33:29.760-04:00

As is true with most milestone events like the 9/11 attacks, we all remember what we were doing at the time. I had watched some of the morning news then turned off television to get ready for the day. My youngest daughter Caitlin, then age 12 and whom I was homeschooling, turned on t.v. while I was loading the dishwasher and said "mom, I think something happened." I came into the living room and

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-64536400862416359962011-09-02T12:51:00.004-04:002011-09-02T14:31:28.526-04:00

I'm continuing my "100 Day Prayer" journey as I engage in intentional prayer for specific areas of concern and wait for God to answer in ways that exceed my faith.  What is impressed upon my heart today is that every "no" along the way is part of God's final "yes".  I have to get through the "no's" to get to the "yes" as I wait on his perfect timing, his will to be done, and be mindful of

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-32970286977314147322011-08-31T13:15:00.000-04:002011-08-31T13:15:39.105-04:00

"Every dreamer knows that it is entirely possible to be homesick for a place you've never been to, perhaps more homesick than for familiar ground." - Judith Thurman Sometimes it is hard to draw the balance of living between the anticipation of heaven and the reality of life on earth when one has a strong faith in God. I do find myself homesick for heaven even though I have not been there and

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-80780366828442321912011-08-28T19:05:00.000-04:002011-08-28T19:05:26.445-04:00

From A Confident Heart by Renee Swope: "When we fall into the comparison trap, it's easy to feel like we don't have as much to offer as others do. ...We compare how we feel inadequate on the inside with someone who looks like they have it all together on the outside.  Then we try to polish our outsides, hoping it will make us feel better on the inside, but it never does.  Comparison causes

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-28232297135162070832011-08-26T15:28:00.001-04:002011-08-29T07:26:13.556-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...the sun is shining, birds are singing, and school buses are going past the house on their way to take kids home. I am thinking...about heaven and those I love who are there, especially my grandma.  She was such a faithful letter writer and since writing my last post on that topic I've been thinking about her a lot. 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-46856639196671566432011-08-25T15:30:00.009-04:002011-08-25T15:56:07.208-04:00

Not that many years ago I had over 30 pen friends and my mailbox had real letters in it almost every day.  Over the past several years email, texting, Twitter, and Facebook have become the communication method of choice and I now have just three consistent pen pals and maybe another three who write once or twice a year. Don't misunderstand.  I don't criticize or fault those who have dropped off

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-50914517623957029012011-08-21T09:36:00.002-04:002011-08-21T09:46:03.735-04:00

"But in the gospel Jesus says "Come to me."  Jesus came to save sinners, to forgive the guilty, and to cleanse the corrupt.  This means the painful presence of sin in your life should not become an occasion of remaining distant from God but another reason to come near.  Your unrighteousness is not a reason to run from God but a reason to run to God.  Only in the Son will you find cleansing, 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-14333979117616071302011-08-19T12:49:00.001-04:002011-08-19T14:04:05.663-04:00

Grace notes are those gifts from God in daily life that give me reason to be thankful.  Here are mine today: We've been blessed with less hot and muggy weather which I have been so grateful for.  I just wilt if it gets over 80 degrees.  Fall should be here in a couple of months! Dear son has had a good start to school this week.  We're praying that this will be his best year so far. I've

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-16615485171935636702011-08-16T15:21:00.002-04:002011-08-16T15:21:31.356-04:00

"Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature...If the next centennial does not find us a

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-982033818134931112011-08-13T14:38:00.005-04:002011-08-13T15:03:23.764-04:00

I'm spending my Saturday making Christmas cards and some ornaments using a beautiful angel rubber stamp I recently found on eBay.  I love the simplicity of them.  And, some more snowmen for the kids...

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-71014339711270935302011-08-12T09:22:00.001-04:002011-08-12T09:28:06.375-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...I just watched a beautiful teenage neighbor walk by.  She walks twice a day while listening to her iPod and has lost lots of weight since the beginning of the year.  She inspires me. I am thinking...about how life used to be when I felt more well, rested, and energetic.  I miss those days. I am thankful for...my

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-52110234670763474692011-08-10T10:33:00.001-04:002011-08-10T10:42:49.601-04:00

I've been in a quiet place lately without much to say  -  not here in blogland, not at church, not in letters, not among family and friends.  Nothing is wrong, I'm just in that frame of mind these days and my new, although temporary, blog header picture reflects it.  Dear son goes back to school next week so I think I'll get back into a routine which should help.  I also feel a need to spend

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-14455276562544566812011-08-08T12:43:00.000-04:002011-08-08T12:43:14.660-04:00

I'm not really what I would call a "messie" but sometimes I border on that because housework isn't always a priority with me.  I like a tidy home but I'm not obsessive-compulsive about it like my mother is. Her life is anything but simple because of her need to have everything perfect, or so it seems to me. Maybe she sees it as simple because nothing is ever messed up, dirty or cluttered. Ever.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-35923685253643975822011-08-05T10:19:00.001-04:002011-08-05T12:01:08.910-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...beautiful with sunshine, a gentle breeze and temps in the 70's so far. I am thinking...about my youngest daughter (age 22).  She recently saw her grandma at the grocery store and grandma didn't know who she was.  She was crushed even though she understands that it's the nature of dementia.  Still, of all our kids, she

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-59440734637398729212011-08-04T11:57:00.002-04:002011-08-04T11:57:41.217-04:00

This is a re-run post from earlier this year but it made me laugh all over again so I'm posting it today. I stole the following very funny post from my friend Janette, one of my favorite bloggers. I just couldn't resist sharing it with everyone.   I wasn't a cheerleader in high school and am not still in great shape but the rest of the story could be true, although I can't promise Ronaldo would

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-19938827060746906352011-08-03T20:54:00.001-04:002011-08-04T09:51:12.556-04:00

My friend Rebecca commented in the previous post with this link to a piece by John Piper about the Campus Crusade for Christ name change: Should You Support Campus Crusade Staff Now That the Name is Changing? Piper does make some good points and I do want to clarify that I was not suggesting that people quit supporting CCC staff.  Our family supports a couple from this ministry who serve in

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-83380154399578582122011-08-01T10:24:00.003-04:002011-08-01T11:12:48.504-04:00

I just don't know what to make of this. My husband and I were on the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ in the early 80's, having been involved in the student group in college.   Since leaving the ministry we have continued to support other staff around the world, but in recent years have questioned some of the things the organization as a whole has become involved in.  Then, we discovered that

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-85089574394022776792011-07-27T14:48:00.002-04:002011-07-30T10:29:09.640-04:00

Grace Notes are those little blessings that come when I'm not expecting them.  Here are mine today: Dear son (age 17) found some thistle growing in the back of our yard and knowing that I like flowers, he got one of my canning jars and risked getting stuck by the prickles to cut these for me.  It sure brought back memories of him picking everything from dandelions, violets, and even weeds that

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-85552240163486813752011-07-26T09:05:00.000-04:002011-07-26T09:05:12.990-04:00

"Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the LORD has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his afflicted. But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me, And the Lord has forgotten me." "Can a woman forget her nursing child And have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-28978837853494751072011-07-22T10:27:00.005-04:002011-07-22T11:03:19.494-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is hot, hot, hot.  Air conditioning is such a gift. I am thinking...about aging as I see my mother-in-law declining physically and mentally.  She's 92 and doing ok but is in the early stages of dementia.  It's hard to watch and to realize that it may be just a matter of time before she needs to move from assisted

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-1975800093804902692011-07-19T10:06:00.000-04:002011-07-19T10:06:27.440-04:00

It's blueberry season here so that means I get to make one of my family's favorite desserts.  Blueberry Buckle Streusel Topping:1/3 cup all-purpose flour1/3 cup packed brown sugar1 t. ground cinnamon3 T. butter, cut into pieces Cake:2 cups all-purpose flour2 t. baking powder1/2 t. salt1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened3/4 cup granulated sugar2 large eggs1/2 cup milk1 t. vanilla extract3 cups (

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-26827847463434335352011-07-17T12:49:00.003-04:002011-08-02T14:04:14.616-04:00

New World Spice Cake (From A World of Cake cookbook) 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour1 t. baking soda1 1/4 t. ground cinnamon1/2 t. ground nutmeg1/4 t. ground cloves1/4 t. ground mace1/4 t. ground allspice1/2 t. salt1/3 cup molasses1/3 cup boiling water4 T. unsalted butter, softened1/4 cup sugar2 eggsPowdered (confectioner's) sugar, optional Preheat oven to 350.  Butter and flour an 8-inch square

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-57061964085751966782011-07-15T12:10:00.002-04:002011-07-20T12:59:45.395-04:00

My own version of the Simple Woman's Daybook for today: Outside my window...it is a beautiful sunny day.  Not terribly hot yet, but it's coming. I am thinking...that menopause and moody teenagers aren't a good mix.  I know why some species eat their young.  Or abandon them at birth. I am thankful for...dear son, despite what I just said I was thinking about.  And air conditioning since we're

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-75726963931325901112011-07-13T11:41:00.002-04:002011-07-14T14:34:56.188-04:00

It's in my human nature to be karma.  Something in me wants to subscribe to the "what goes around, comes around" mentality where people get exactly what they deserve when they behave badly.  It's that otherwise good sense of justice that has the potential to go bad as I am tempted to take my self-appointed role as Holy Spirit Junior seriously, focusing on what others do wrong while forgetting

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-30584023401193073522011-07-12T14:00:00.001-04:002011-07-12T19:14:37.613-04:00

Pasta With Ham and Peas (From 500 Salads by Susannah Blake) 1/13 cup frozen peas 1 large carrot 2 scallions 3/4 cup uncooked pasta 14 oz. cooked smoked ham or turkey ham 3-4 oz. shredded cheddar cheese pinch of paprika salt andd pepper For the dressing, mix together: 4 T. mayonnaise scant 1/2 cup sour cream 3/4 cup cream Thaw the peas.  Peel the carrot and cut into julienne strips.  Trim the

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-42448699575381423442011-07-10T19:20:00.000-04:002011-07-10T19:20:08.361-04:00

"In God's economy, money isn't just added or subtracted; it multiplies and divides in all kinds of bizarre ways.  Grace triumphs over calculation.  Love counts more than numbers.  It's the odd math of grace.  It doesn't add up, and the reason it doesn't add up is that if God ever totalled up our account with him, we'd never get out of minus numbers.  So mercy wins the day, and the balance sheet

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-85707053144422119952011-07-08T12:05:00.001-04:002011-07-08T12:11:57.560-04:00

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-27399185347029001002011-07-05T11:54:00.000-04:002011-07-05T11:54:42.512-04:00

This is something my friend Trisha at A Multitude of Mercies posted at her blog today and it says so well what has been on my own mind lately: Always Second-Guessing "You've been having family worship for a long time now. It's crazy sometimes, but in a world that encourages family members to live independently of one another, this concentrated family time of worship and prayer and Bible reading

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-58351865691009710772011-07-03T09:21:00.001-04:002011-07-03T09:21:59.303-04:00

The Star Spangled Banner In 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote the poem, Defense of Fort McHenry. The poem was later put to the tune of (John Stafford Smith's song) The Anacreontic Song, modified somewhat, and retitled The Star Spangled Banner. Congress proclaimed The Star Spangled Banner the U.S. National Anthem in 1931. Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, What so proudly we hail'd at

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-60969073541493177252011-07-01T11:50:00.003-04:002011-07-01T19:22:47.242-04:00

Simple Woman's Daybook For Friday: Outside my window...it is stormy but we need the rain. I am thinking...about the groceries I need to get for our Fourth of July cookout. Our middle daughter and her boyfriend will join us. I am thankful for...God's daily provision.  I'm learning to take life a day at a time and not worry about the future.  From the kitchen...the dishwasher is running. I am

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-43900833748261089152011-06-29T20:27:00.002-04:002011-06-29T20:29:58.916-04:00

From Eyes Wide Open by Jud Wilhite: "Here's a bit of reality.  When we become believers, many of us think, Well, yeah, I have certain gifts and abilities.  But then we begin to stall.  We start thinking like this: You know, I don't have my life all together yet.  I still have bad habits.  I still have issues.  If the people at church knew what they were, they just wouldn't believe how I keep

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-35306206104837888152011-06-28T09:44:00.001-04:002011-06-28T09:46:00.513-04:00

One thing I'm learning as I get older is that poise, grace and acceptance are choices even if they aren't my knee-jerk reaction when things don't go my way. I'm a confessed control freak. I want people to behave as I wish. I want circumstances to turn out according to my plans. And yes, sometimes when I pray I have to resist the urge to outline for God a suggestion of how He could go about

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-42026428355588961632011-06-26T12:15:00.002-04:002011-06-26T17:32:55.025-04:00

"The commands of God reveal his will to us and serve as a rule for godly living.  This is in itself, grace.  It means that God has not left us alone in ignorance concerning what is truly right or wrong."  - Joe Thorn, Note to Self (p.s. For some reason I've had problems posting comments at other blogs.  It's hit and miss.  Some go through and others keep returning me to the sign-in page over

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-72043817447578026012011-06-22T14:20:00.002-04:002011-06-29T08:49:01.770-04:00

Congrats to Janette!True Random Number GeneratorMin: 1Max: 12Result: 10 Powered by RANDOM.ORG I'm giving away a set of four note cards featuring some of my daisy photos.  Just leave a comment to be included in the drawing by Random.org on Wednesday, June 29.  Please be sure I can contact you via email or your blog, and that you have a U.S. mailing address.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-24112218492764231502011-06-20T19:32:00.002-04:002011-06-20T19:35:52.803-04:00

My guys are off camping so I have the house to myself.  I'll be happy when they come home but I always enjoy the grace note of a few days of solitude.  I'll be spending the time reading, watching some chic flicks, catching up on letters, and enjoying not having to prepare any meals.  And sleeping in! 

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-61872478040153616992011-06-20T12:52:00.004-04:002011-06-20T13:02:39.436-04:00

The book by Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, continues to get mixed reviews.  I posted my misgivings about it at my book review blog but recently read this excellent review from the Lighthouse Trails blog: "One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp is a 2010 Zondervan title that is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon Best-Seller. The author is a contributing writer for DaySpring, and she has a blog

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-65086165491733439582011-06-14T20:01:00.002-04:002011-12-03T12:53:02.918-05:00

I've been testing recipes from several cookbooks I'm reviewing.  Here are a few: Three-Cheese Pepperoncini Dip Three-Cheese Pepperoncini Dip 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream2 oz. (bar style) cream cheese at room temperature16 oz. container of low-fat cottage cheese1/2 cup drained, stemmed, and finely chopped pepperoncini2 T. minced fresh flat-leaf parsleyGrated zest of one lemon1/2 t. garlic

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-1752936509533785492011-06-11T09:56:00.000-04:002011-06-11T09:56:56.115-04:00

(This is a re-run post from 2009.  I am having similar feelings today.) I sometimes get caught up in the comparison game with other people and start second guessing whether the Lord loves me as much as others who do more amazing and adventurous things for God. I am not jealous of such people, but I do wonder how God can help but love someone like a Beth Moore, or a missionary, or a mover and

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-78473343740505261372011-06-08T08:46:00.002-04:002011-06-08T09:11:26.701-04:00

Simple Woman's Daybook Entry Outside my window...I can see the white roses in a profusion of bloom, like popcorn.  It seems like every time I look at the bushes, dozens more blooms have opened. I am thinking...the white hair I'm getting is actually my brain cells leaching out because there seems to be a direct correlation between going gray and a foggy brain! I am thankful for...my husband's

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-62494893089288767322011-06-07T16:34:00.000-04:002011-06-07T16:34:51.933-04:00

One of my favorite websites for a good laugh is I Can Has Cheesburger with the lol cats.   Here are a few of my favorites.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-54983400257596261752011-06-05T16:04:00.004-04:002011-06-05T18:02:29.467-04:00

"Little luxuries are more conducive to sustained well-being and pleasure than big ones.  These days, this philosophy of happiness is gaining popularity and, while I don't believe that happiness is an absolute state to which we all have a right, I do agree that a little of what you like does you good. I would hazard a guess that most relatively contented domestic artists subscribe to this

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-90484019431336457272011-06-02T21:19:00.000-04:002011-06-02T21:19:36.952-04:00

(Recipe from the Everyday Paleo cookbook.)  These egg cupcakes are sort of like mini frittatas or quiches without the crust and can be frozen.  They are easy to warm up in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.  Egg Cupcakes 10 -12 eggs whisked well 1 green onion 2 zucchini 3 big handfuls of spinach 1/2 a jar of roasted red and yellow peppers 6-8 slices of COOKED bacon sea salt

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-85432359318827380522011-06-01T14:27:00.001-04:002011-06-01T15:02:08.901-04:00

I'm not much of a gardener but these white roses bloom beautifully every year despite my neglect... And this little goldfinch enjoys the birdfeeder above the roses:

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-20578824843033142752011-05-31T12:16:00.003-04:002011-05-31T14:18:04.995-04:00

So today is officially the first day of Nate's summer break from high school and for me that means adjusting to having someone else in the house during the day.  More noise, more conversation, more snacks in the house since he's always hungry.  The latter can pose the biggest challenge for me because I do NOT need more snacks! Nate has a part-time job at McDonald's and with his first paycheck

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-82272657706572798302011-05-24T13:45:00.005-04:002011-05-25T08:10:03.684-04:00

Chicken Sauté With Sugar Snaps and Asparagus (From the Williams-Sonoma Weeknight Fresh & Fast cookbook.) all-purpose flour for dredging 10 oz. chicken tenders coarse kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 2 T. olive oil 1 bunch (about 1/2 lb.) fresh thin asparagus, ends trimmed 1/2 lb. sugar snap peas, strings removed 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth 1 T. fresh thyme, minced, plus more for

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-45081639600334245532011-05-23T20:58:00.000-04:002011-05-23T20:58:35.459-04:00

"God's great net of security spans this globe. No matter where His children live, He has stretched out His everlasting arms beneath them. As a result, everyone of us live and work freely and fearlessly, knowing we are protected, safe, secure, sealed, and kept by His power. The anxiety and fear of perishing are gone. Eternal security has taken a great load off our minds." - Charles Swindoll, "

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-67204150743896277122011-05-20T12:56:00.006-04:002011-05-21T09:45:56.667-04:00

Outside my window...It's a perfect spring day...sunny, temps in the low 70's, mild breeze.  I'll be spending some time outside later. I am thinking...about my kids.  They are never far from my thoughts and prayers. I am thankful for...a husband who loves me unconditionally and is my best friend.  We'll celebrate our 33rd wedding anniversary next week. From the kitchen...a casserole is ready to

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-91271548532364193412011-05-18T20:36:00.001-04:002011-05-18T20:37:11.192-04:00

I'm giving away a copy of The Elemental Journal: Composing Artful Expressions From Items Cast Aside by Tammy Kushnir at my book review blog, Books and Chocolate.  Please go there for the details! I'm also giving away a cookbook, 500 Mediterranean Dishes.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-60038418480297104652011-05-15T16:15:00.002-04:002011-05-15T18:01:45.665-04:00

From Little House in the Ozarks, a collection of essays by Laura Ingalls Wilder: "The Man of the Place and I have realized with something of the shock of a surprise that we do not need to buy anything during the coming year.  There are some things we need and much that we would like to get, but if it were necessary, we could go very comfortably through the year without a thing more than we

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-34625951930049960902011-05-10T11:52:00.006-04:002011-05-10T17:59:35.622-04:00

I created this blog four years ago but didn't start writing anything until about a year later in 2008.  Here's my very first post: I am in love with real pen and paper writing so it is stepping out of my comfort zone to do an online journal. But, I see this as just one more venue for putting my thoughts and ideas into words and pictures. In a way, doing this blog is a step toward wanting to

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-24203352994405979562011-05-06T10:40:00.000-04:002011-05-06T10:40:16.342-04:00

"Because of practices invading both the culture and the church that promote experience over doctrine and feeling over faith, Christians might get the idea that they are missing out on something and need "deeper" experiences with God. Although we have a Savior who died for us and we have the scriptures, which are "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-23183865619768875192011-05-05T09:55:00.001-04:002011-05-05T09:56:09.215-04:00

House Passes Law Against Abortion Funding; ‘Taking of Innocent Life is Not Health Care,’ Says Congressman Wednesday, May 04, 2011 By Penny Starr A recent CNN poll shows that the majority of American oppose using taxpayer funding for promoting or performing abortions. (CNSNews.com/Penny Starr) (CNSNews.com) – The House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday that would set as

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-64147718728251060662011-05-04T08:04:00.000-04:002011-05-04T08:04:53.910-04:00

Outside my window...I'm watching robins fly in and out of the evergreen trees where they have nests. I am thinking...about the errands I have to run today and am glad it is sunny outside. I am thankful for...God's provision in all things. From the kitchen...is the smell of the sausage and egg biscuit dear son had for breakfast. I am wearing...still in my pj's. I am creating...new photo cards

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-74969993351406213002011-04-29T15:51:00.002-04:002011-04-29T16:23:41.220-04:00

Today is the first sunny day we've had in a while and after a tough week I decided to heed the advice of my friend Elaine and get out with my camera.  Here are a few of the 139 photos I took during a visit to a local Amish greenhouse/nursery.  Thanks, Elaine!  It was good medicine.

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-89114369630358429372011-04-28T11:50:00.002-04:002011-04-28T12:00:06.404-04:00

Here are some souvenirs that can be yours! You can knit the family! How about some teabags? A Royal Refrigerator?  (How scary is that?) Don't forget to let the kids in on the celebration. Decals for your nails... Pez! I thought this was a joke but it isn't.  A company supposedly has trained professionals collecting air from the day of the wedding and bottling it.  I can't make this stuff

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-78088795607095584452011-04-25T07:28:00.000-04:002011-04-25T07:28:27.891-04:00

Prince William and Kate Middleton will get married on Friday, and yes, I'll probably watch it on t.v., not because I'm so enamored with the royal family, but because it is something postive for a change and I do want to see her wedding dress. To get in the mood, here are Merriam-Webster's top ten favorite British words: #1: Prat Definition: a stupid or foolish person Example: "Everyone's

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-66428399792793312902011-04-24T11:05:00.003-04:002011-04-24T11:23:19.188-04:00

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-37718571440149264282011-04-21T08:15:00.004-04:002011-04-21T12:56:57.117-04:00

"The marvel of heaven and earth, of time and eternity, is the atoning death of Jesus Christ. This is the mystery that brings more glory to God than all creation." - C. H. Spurgeon "The tomb of Christ is famous because of what it DOES NOT CONTAIN." - Sam Morris "The resurrection proclamation could not have been maintained in Jerusalem for a single day, for a single hour, if the emptiness of the

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-54827247527107585772011-04-19T19:43:00.000-04:002011-04-19T19:43:46.320-04:00

Look at these great edible Easter egg nests!  Lorraine featured them at her blog and I just had to share them.  She took the photo, too, which I'm using with her permission. Visit her blog for the recipe!

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363739348190552718.post-88923690173509387302011-04-19T11:18:00.004-04:002011-04-19T19:50:18.639-04:00

Friday, April 22, is Earth Day.  I wonder if the country of Bolivia is taking protecting the earth too far as they are passing legislation giving nature the same rights as humans.  (So if "Mother Earth" has the same rights I do as a human being to not be harmed, then does that mean if "she" creates a windstorm that causes a tree to fall on my home, I get to sue "her" and the tree for damages?)

Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15583817947078375493noreply@blogger.com4