tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82961058340396184412012-01-22T19:10:45.386-05:00builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Psalm 127:1aTracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.comBlogger7781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-74017587159288111802010-12-09T23:01:00.002-05:002010-12-09T23:04:15.249-05:00

The house gets a bit chilly this time of year, making it difficult to get my bread to rise. Today I set up a small table near the fireplace and set my loaves to rise there. It did the trick!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-86106827419310409662010-08-13T13:10:00.006-04:002010-08-13T14:37:20.070-04:00

In the kitchen, of course! Here's what I have " put up" for winter so far. 3 pounds Carrots, dehydrated5 ears Corn, dehydrated5 lbs. dried black beans8.5 pounds Roma tomatoes, dehydrated10 pounds pears, dehydrated40 pounds apples, dehydrated32 Stoplight Peppers, dehydrated7 half- pints Blueberry-Lime Jam7 half-pints Cherry Love Jam7 half- pints Spiced Rum Peach Jam8 half-pints Cherry Jam9

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-17850942520398316402010-07-20T14:31:00.003-04:002010-07-20T14:55:10.429-04:00

July has been filled with weeding, and sowing, harvesting, and canning, and little else. The days are long and the nights are short, and there never seem to be enough hours in the day. One long day of canning I noticed the temperature was steadily climbing in the house. I called my wonderful neighbor who happens to have a wonderful husband whom installed our air conditioning. The capacitor had

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-83527857548215884052010-06-18T07:59:00.003-04:002010-06-18T08:51:48.618-04:00

Life moves quickly, ever changing. Just when I find myself settling into a routine, life happens and the cart gets turned upside down. It's not a bad thing, necessarily, just different. Children grow into young adults before our very eyes. Many assume this means the parenting days come to a close. They assume wrong. Parenting changes? Yes. Ends? Never. Our little charges become our friends,

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-12527284214006320862010-05-29T23:55:00.002-04:002010-05-30T01:00:59.719-04:00

It's the time of year to start preparing for the winter. Here's what I've put up so far:16 half-pints Strawberry-Lemon Marmalade19 half-pints Triple Berry Jam38 half-pints Strawberry Jam7 half- pints Blueberry-Lime Jam7 half-pints Blueberry Jam8 half-pints Cherry Jam9 half-pints Strawberry Jalapeno Jam Are you canning yet?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-68905627425164571282010-05-21T10:47:00.004-04:002010-05-21T10:55:36.057-04:00

For years I've dreamed of opening a very small bakery with scones, and muffins for breakfast, soups, quiches, and salads for lunch. And desserts. Pies, cakes, cookies, cheesecakes- you name it.It isn't happening anytime soon, but that doesn't stop me from selling out of my home.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-80758605442496375302010-05-17T16:29:00.004-04:002010-05-17T16:39:18.627-04:00

In the past week I've:visited the farmer's market three times, baked and decorated two cakes, made 19 half pints of strawberry jam, frozen two gallons of strawberries, welcomed Mac back home from college, cooked many meals, taken the children to piano lessons, picked 12 baby chickens up at the post office and become a "chicken mama", planted several gardens, mulched the flower beds, weeded, and

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-61775265541324953042010-05-07T22:07:00.003-04:002010-05-08T00:43:31.173-04:00

Funny how buying three new plants leads to changing the entire front flower bed around. I'm thankful for my husband who never tires of the lists I give him. It's a pleasure to work by his side.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-70151818342717898372010-05-06T21:46:00.006-04:002010-05-06T21:53:30.956-04:00

I went to move a few 2 x 4's off the driveway this evening and found this little beauty. I knew what it was right away, but wanted to get a little closer for a better look.Yes. I am crazy. My lens was about three inches from her. I followed her for a few minutes, snapping away with my camera, and moving backwards as she crawled toward me. Finally, I'd had enough, and flipped her over for a look

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-84983620227758404382010-05-05T19:15:00.003-04:002010-05-05T19:22:16.558-04:00

Though we have no Mexican heritage, Cinco de Mayo is a good reason to make some tasty treats. Chicken quesadillas on homemade flour tortillas, freshly made guacamole, and Pina Coladas were on the menu. Collin whipped up a strawberry pie for dessert, but we need to work dinner off first.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-64894201223341240042010-05-04T20:05:00.002-04:002010-05-04T20:08:41.451-04:00

We've had broccoli twice now, and boy, has it ever been good! How about you? Are you eating from your garden yet?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-62430290968111235342010-05-03T20:52:00.002-04:002010-05-03T20:58:40.687-04:00

When she was born he would hold her hand for hours. He sang to her and brought her Matchbox cars to hold, but never would I have thought that these two would be as close as they are. Yes, they do fight. Daily. But if one of them is gone for a day or an overnight, the other is lost until they return. May it always be so.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-90477820190547338712010-05-01T09:37:00.005-04:002010-05-01T13:15:34.490-04:00

We've been enjoying these smoothies just about every day, changing up the ingredients to use what we have on hand. There's always an apple, cored and seeded, skin left on, and most always a pear, prepared the same as the apple. Variations include pineapple, bananas, blueberries, and frozen strawberries. And greens. LOTS of greens. About 4 cups! I started with kale, and have moved to spinach.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-12280866227877983542010-04-30T21:01:00.003-04:002010-04-30T21:07:45.707-04:00

A trip to the local nursery proved more successful than the chain home improvement store, and I found my Annabelle hydrangea as well as a snow queen oak leaf variety. Bliss! Too bad I don't have a small pond to put this water lily in.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-60492090030798829812010-04-29T09:48:00.002-04:002010-04-29T09:54:52.731-04:00

I dream of having my home landscaped in white. I'm enamored with a friend's Annabelle hydrangea, and intend to start there as soon as I can find one.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-52265725237838498662010-04-28T12:17:00.002-04:002010-04-28T12:47:55.784-04:00

The furnace has been off for close to two months now, but Collin was quick to light a fire this morning since the house was 62 degrees upon waking. I often find him reading his schoolbooks, feet propped on the hearth, soaking in the warmth. Daisy likes to join him.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-13457535296155537802010-04-27T16:26:00.001-04:002010-04-27T16:29:23.112-04:00

Such beautiful elegance!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-76678732900310055682010-04-26T11:10:00.002-04:002010-04-26T11:26:36.510-04:00

It seems as though I've been bitten by the salad bug. I've been trying a new one every few days, and even ate the leftovers of this one for breakfast.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-49329655987691495162010-04-23T10:15:00.001-04:002010-04-23T10:23:19.676-04:00

For more RED photos, visit Rebecca at Renaissance.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-56712907241154851632010-04-22T21:27:00.005-04:002010-04-22T22:12:03.638-04:00

Autumn, Collin, and Abigail dance every week with a group who performs at festivals and the occasional odd place. Tonight they visited a nursing home and entertained the residents. The crowd was very enthusiastic.Especially when Abigail and Olivia flew through the air during Little Man in a Fix. It went over so well, they performed an encore. The last dance of the night was an open waltz, and

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-61447044006375149402010-04-21T14:23:00.002-04:002010-04-21T14:33:13.348-04:00

Warm days call for cold drinks. This lemonade is easy, and tastes far superior to any powdered mix.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-52020732816785621632010-04-20T13:41:00.003-04:002010-04-20T13:43:14.739-04:00

The spring has been intensely beautiful. It's only a pity that the trees don't hold their blooms a little longer.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-9760194920976461772010-04-19T21:30:00.002-04:002010-04-19T21:39:17.619-04:00

Recently, a friend was relating to her husband how Autumn was joining an obedience class, and he replied, "Autumn is the last person who needs obedience class!" I guess he didn't know her when she was two!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-88334466503044315612010-04-18T09:00:00.000-04:002010-04-18T16:08:45.868-04:00

Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-22187117114600760932010-04-17T21:31:00.003-04:002010-04-17T21:36:06.784-04:00

It was a busy day from sun-up to sun-down. Soil tilling, grass mowing, construction, painting, weeding, planting, watering, cooking and baking. Everyone had several tasks to attend to, and everyone worked cheerfully. Nicely done!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-47319527701868073652010-04-16T08:56:00.006-04:002010-04-16T10:11:30.308-04:00

I have to say that I'm not loving these "color" photo challenges. I've felt very uninspired, and this week was the worst. Just how many dandelions do you think we'll see this week? I think abstractly a lot, and wanted to capture cowardice. It didn't happen. Instead, I took very obvious photos. BORING, obvious photos. Well, I do like watching my husband work, but still. This one is from my

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-88505391099617025542010-04-15T18:26:00.002-04:002010-04-15T18:32:26.873-04:00

Jennifer and I took a class this morning and learned how to weave footstools. We started with a basic frame, and wove with Shaker tape. I'm so short that I have to sit in the recliner or put my feet up on the sofa or chair because they won't touch the floor. This is just what I needed.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-38776665723079058702010-04-14T21:37:00.004-04:002010-04-14T21:47:34.577-04:00

Abigail and Collin were recently given writing assignments in which they had to write to a company that they liked. Abigail chose JustBorn candy company and told them how much she enjoyed their products, their packaging, etc. She specifically told them that she liked Mike and Ikes and Hot Tamales. Several weeks passed and an express mail package arrived with her name on it. She was thrilled to

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-58501332791355490602010-04-13T20:07:00.005-04:002010-04-13T20:14:37.601-04:00

I never knew that felt paper placed on the roof before the shingles had such nice lines. What a perfect place to leave a message. Just in case you were wondering, I leave him love notes, too. Even when I have to climb a ladder to write them!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-36257623977548039082010-04-12T19:43:00.002-04:002010-04-12T19:49:08.034-04:00

Every year that we've lived in this home, I've had my boys wash the entire outside from top to bottom by hand. Since Mac is away at college, Collin and I set to work. No music for us, though, and I don't think either of us missed it. We talked the afternoon away, and we finished one side. Have I ever mentioned that we have a large house? We do.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-60850927671327619832010-04-10T21:20:00.001-04:002010-04-10T21:22:42.197-04:00

and sunshine lead to long days outside, and the first sun-kissed skin of the year.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-48537617389980844702010-04-09T16:00:00.004-04:002010-04-09T16:05:35.816-04:00

For more Foto Friday fun visit Rebecca!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-66326202931241022812010-04-07T11:26:00.002-04:002010-04-07T11:30:47.433-04:00

Not exactly what I had in mind when I woke up this morning and decided to create, but I was out of pecans (OH! the shame!), and so the other variety has to wait. These were a lovely treat even if they weren't what I had originally planned.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-31005943273395840552010-04-06T15:05:00.004-04:002010-04-06T15:15:48.057-04:00

I remember a large crock sitting in the basement for a long period of time, and waiting and waiting for the sauerkraut to be done. I have no large crock, and was happy to learn that the wait would be much shorter, too. Sally Fallon's recipe from Nourishing Traditions is a keeper. It's not the way my mom made it, but it's still delicious!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-76480132326543305622010-04-05T10:40:00.007-04:002010-04-05T10:50:02.310-04:00

Abigail kept quite busy with scraps of wood from our latest project, and a little freshly mixed mud. She designed a logo, and came up with a name. The Delectable Dilemma: Where the food is so good, you have a dilemma deciding what to choose. Whole wheat bread with a sprinkling of oats on top,freshly "baked" donuts, or chocolate truffles with finely ground hazelnuts. What would you choose? It is a

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-63016751729613232442010-04-04T08:56:00.002-04:002010-04-05T08:35:13.960-04:00

So the Jews grumbled about him, because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They said, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” Jesus answered them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. It is

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-75890847438701873682010-04-01T08:43:00.005-04:002010-04-01T08:48:04.036-04:00

The weather has been beautiful, calling us outdoors all day and evening long.And, as soon as anyone mentions a walk, Daisy gets ready to go.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-91563595694978835612010-03-31T19:10:00.005-04:002010-03-31T19:15:09.610-04:00

When the temperatures rise the fur flies. I asked Autumn to take the cats outside for a good brushing; better out than in! Casper was scared to death and didn't know whether to flee or hide.Chester, on the other hand, basked in the warm sunshine, held his head high, and enjoyed every moment.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-6865987412676407222010-03-29T16:01:00.001-04:002010-03-29T16:04:50.349-04:00

It's cold and rainy, and seemingly a good day to clean my bathroom and bedroom. I'm looking forward to some sunshine.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-7439273514898020692010-03-28T00:30:00.002-04:002010-03-28T00:30:00.513-04:00

It was now two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to arrest him by stealth and kill him, for they said, "Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar from the people." Mark 14:1-2 (ESV)

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-72587499538365145262010-03-27T09:22:00.001-04:002010-03-27T09:24:50.593-04:00

I think that perhaps God gave us daffodils to cheer us on these cold, wet spring days. Sunshine for my heart!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-37133238491337624162010-03-26T06:30:00.003-04:002010-03-26T15:26:07.297-04:00

Back to including food! I made these for Valentine's Day, and have made them several times since then. If you missed them the first time around, it's not too late to make them now!For more Foto Friday, visit Rebecca at Renaissance. And consider joining us!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-48933110450113612010-03-25T19:41:00.003-04:002010-03-25T19:53:31.785-04:00

I'm a little more than half way in a race to finish this afghan for Collin before the hot weather sets in. As I made an afghan for Abigail, and hats, not only for myself, but for many others, Collin quietly sat and watched, waiting his turn. He chose the colors and the pattern, and beams every time I sit to work on it. Let's just say I've had quite a few extra kisses lately, and I don't mind a

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-70331711838161529572010-03-24T08:46:00.002-04:002010-03-24T08:50:37.002-04:00

Because it has been three weeks since I announced the winner of the King Arthur Cookbook, and I haven't heard from Cindy ( I tried to contact her as well), I've chosen a new winner. Congratulations to Alice Harris!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-73796917534541534802010-03-23T06:01:00.002-04:002010-03-23T07:52:15.005-04:00

As we started planning for the fireplace, I told Autumn that I wanted an orchid for the mantel. She's seen me stop to admire them several times when we've been out and kept asking me, "Aren't you going to buy one?" Finally, she could take it no more, and made the splurge herself. I drink in its beauty every time I'm in the dining room. In other news, I started reading the Bible in 90 days

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-60062037153116718902010-03-22T17:09:00.006-04:002010-03-22T17:15:10.684-04:00

He was on one side of the kitchen frying bacon. She was on the opposite side of the kitchen, cooking pancakes. And they met in the middle to sing a duet. What is it about pancakes for supper in this house, anyway?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-80443963277635181902010-03-21T00:19:00.003-04:002010-03-21T00:29:16.468-04:00

And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. And he said

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-14623626391516855832010-03-19T06:19:00.002-04:002010-03-19T18:16:26.918-04:00

I had many ideas this week, but they were hard to capture. I wanted to capture Daisy because she is green with envy over the new guide dog pup, Gallagher. I wanted to capture a young horse, not yet broken, and I kept meaning to take a picture of money. Sadly, those ideas didn't come to fruition.The tree reflected in the water below. I think the last photo is a wonderful reminder that though Jesus

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-88034925114858012432010-03-18T13:05:00.003-04:002010-03-18T13:10:49.545-04:00

I've only bought one loaf of bread since September. I've been making sandwich bread when I know that we'll need it, and artisan bread for meals. It's such a wonderful treat to have a small loaf of fresh bread when we sit down to the table. No plastic rising containers for me, though! The authors of Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day recommend a plastic container with a non-airtight lid. I

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-55862479553246130422010-03-17T15:05:00.006-04:002010-03-17T15:32:54.562-04:00

I bind unto myself today The strong Name of the Trinity, By invocation of the same, The Three in One and One in Three. ~St. Patrick's BreastplateMore here.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-3203322526731377202010-03-16T20:08:00.005-04:002010-03-16T20:20:54.187-04:00

We recently traveled west to visit my niece whom we hadn't seen since she was 5 months old. Sometimes life gets in the way of what is really important. We're trying to change that. Tessa is a year older than Abigail, and is on the top left of the picture. Don't she and Autumn look like they could be twins?We had a great time visiting. We baked cookies, played games, and the children just hung out

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-8132758952784738892010-03-15T22:26:00.007-04:002010-03-15T22:36:13.229-04:00

Autumn picked up her guide dog puppy today. She got to pick his name. He's a male standard poodle, and his name is Gallagher, which means "eager helper". He's very gentle, and doesn't chase the cats or Daisy. He has the most adorable deep brown eyes, and a white goatee. He doesn't yet realize that Daisy can't see. He'll get lots of practice leading the blind!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-88560421752303873332010-03-14T00:01:00.000-05:002010-03-14T00:01:02.270-05:00

And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts—but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-19202849151843156722010-03-12T08:00:00.001-05:002010-03-12T11:06:47.822-05:00

Caution tapeWhen thinking about lines, the St. Louis Arch comes to mind, and so I went and took some pictures!The St. Louis skylineThe ArchMore of the same, but it's very cool at night!Verne by the ArchIf you've never been here, it looks very small from far away. It's rather disappointing actually, and then you get up close to it, and it's quite large. At night, the light is constantly changing

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-2822871439354693032010-03-11T14:58:00.001-05:002010-03-11T15:44:35.977-05:00

Many of you have noticed that something has been missing around here. You noticed my complete silence in November and most of December. You noticed my lack of posting about Autumn. And then you noticed that I did mention Autumn, but not Jon. You have emailed me, lifted our family in prayer, and been an encouragement. Thank you. Many of you already know the story, because you took the time to

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-44661415321938544902010-03-10T19:25:00.006-05:002010-03-10T20:19:48.012-05:00

Have you heard of it? I don't remember how, but several months back I stumbled across the Toy Society site and was intrigued. I forgot about it until today when I asked Autumn if I had ever shown it to her. We got the idea to sew a few simple toys today. I plan to find a fun place to drop mine off tomorrow. This is fun!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-64122472058557510382010-03-09T19:32:00.003-05:002010-03-09T19:35:42.961-05:00

make really, really goodhiding places for kitties.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-80527744390546936432010-03-08T15:16:00.003-05:002010-03-08T15:33:19.369-05:00

It's much more lively when Mac is home, and this week is no exception. He can't stand to not have music playing, or to be playing it himself. He loves guitar, but also enjoys piano and mandolin. And now? The accordion! He bought it just yesterday and can already play it with ease. The only complaint? It smells like a bowling alley. As the girls and I walked this afternoon, we could hear polka

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-20367075996449372232010-03-07T08:44:00.002-05:002010-03-07T09:09:41.581-05:00

Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, "Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?" He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, 'The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.'" And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover. When it was

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-4775842239002870402010-03-05T10:15:00.001-05:002010-03-05T10:55:17.860-05:00

This week's challenge lay mostly in limiting what to take pictures of. There are circles everywhere!The above photo brings a smile to my face. This is a little "snack bar" that Collin has set up on his dresser. At least it isn't filled with candy! I love the graininess of the photo; I think it was caused by the sinking late afternoon sun. Autumn's kitty, Casper, can be found wherever there is

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-14377956875947662562010-03-04T12:57:00.002-05:002010-03-04T13:04:32.058-05:00

It's such a simple thing to come up with scone variations once you have a basic recipe that you like. This morning's creation was a huge success. Some younger people thought that cherry meant that the scones should be pink. Easy enough; I just added a bit of maraschino cherry juice to the confectioners sugar for a quick glaze. Yummy, and pretty!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-62763993342453541482010-03-04T00:30:00.000-05:002010-03-04T00:30:00.131-05:00

Thanks so much to everyone who took the time to leave a comment! The winner is:#82 Cindy at Being MoldedCongratulations, Cindy! Please email me your full name and address at unlessthelord@gmail.com and I'll pass the information on to the good people at King Arthur.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-92098307423595897592010-03-02T16:14:00.014-05:002010-03-02T17:16:52.171-05:00

We live in a home with an electric heat pump. Those of you whom have them know what I'm talking about when I say that we are never warm in the winter. Never mind that we keep the thermostat set at 62 F. We decided to install a ventless propane log fireplace, not only to supplement the heat pump, but to give us heat in the event of a power outage. On February 5th, the corner of our dining room was

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-65906327563545645842010-03-01T19:11:00.003-05:002010-03-01T19:19:28.456-05:00

The days are growing longer; the skies, more blue. The sun is shining its warmth through the windows and onto my skin. I'm breathing deeply, and I feel Him walking beside me throughout the hours. He upholds. He sustains. He is, and I am glad.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-89145602891448924582010-02-28T00:32:00.001-05:002010-02-28T00:32:00.437-05:00

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-69599838239546158242010-02-27T00:15:00.006-05:002010-03-03T23:13:30.631-05:00

February 19th marked 3 years of blogging for me, and to celebrate I'm teaming up with the wonderful folks at King Arthur Flour for a giveaway. I'm so excited for each of you who have a chance to win! As you all know, I love to cook, and especially to bake. Several months ago I checked the King Arthur Flour Baker's Companion out of the library, and started trying recipes. Everything I've tried so

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com89tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-19194267066038869272010-02-26T10:13:00.012-05:002010-02-26T14:09:21.814-05:00

I felt very uninspired this week. Have you ever seen the I Spy books? I'd love for my children to set me up a scene like the photos in those books, and then have you all try to find how many squares were in it. I mentioned it to them, they got excited for a brief second, and then forgot. Oh, well!These truffles were on a square plate, I promise!Verne started working on the fireplace mantel this

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-47155670905534742702010-02-25T19:22:00.002-05:002010-02-25T19:25:39.570-05:00

Abigail and Collin took it upon themselves to use last night's leftover ham steaks and fried potatoes, and added scrambled eggs. They set the table and called for everyone to gather around. It's so nice to witness teamwork, especially when it's their idea.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-47446468701327963682010-02-24T16:39:00.002-05:002010-02-24T16:43:17.629-05:00

It seems like we'll go for long stretches where we can't find anything good at the thrift store. And then, there are days when we hit the jackpot. Today was a jackpot day!Abigail found 6 dresses, a blouse, a skirt, and this adorable trench coat that looked like it was made just for her. She's tickled pink!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-21279057473398391802010-02-23T09:04:00.002-05:002010-02-23T09:23:17.452-05:00

I first made these with Verne's aunt over twenty years ago. Each week before we were married, Verne and I would go to his aunt's home to babysit her two young children while she worked an evening shift, and her husband was in a bowling league. I taught Verne's much younger cousins many things that they didn't know. You know, valuable life skills, like making happy toast and volcanoes from baking

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-22669477137617495282010-02-22T19:56:00.001-05:002010-02-22T19:59:23.181-05:00

Bills paid...✓Laundry finished...✓Trip to the doctor...✓Grocery shopping...✓Waiting for the gas company............................. frustration.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-85307659781557014812010-02-21T06:00:00.001-05:002010-02-21T06:00:06.568-05:00

When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. Jesus said to them, “Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” And they began discussing it among themselves, saying, “We brought no bread.” But Jesus, aware of this, said, “O you of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-16668165882559130942010-02-20T20:11:00.010-05:002010-02-20T20:28:46.655-05:00

It's been four long weeks since Mac has been home, and we were all ready to see him for the weekend. I love how he can't wait to sit down for the meals that I prepare, and how he offers to do the dishes!I could have them done in a quarter of the time that it takes him to finish them, but I wouldn't have near the fun.He always recruits a sibling to help. He washes, they dry. The party gets started

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-22510864255747352592010-02-19T07:54:00.008-05:002010-02-19T10:05:02.332-05:00

My last several week's worth of posts have been full of hearts, and I feared that I had used them all up. Not so! The bridge of Autumn's cello.I went to bed shortly after midnight last Friday, and Verne was still working on the fireplace. He crawled into bed around 5:30 AM, but not before he carved our names into the scratch coat. He was dead on his feet, but still took the time to do something

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-71612810658299798842010-02-17T20:00:00.002-05:002010-02-17T20:07:36.938-05:00

In my constant effort to reduce our electric bill I bought a timer for our extra freezer and refrigerator. So far, it's worked well. These two appliances shut off at midnight, and come back on at 6 AM. No one is opening them during that time, and they stay plenty cold. This way, every 4 days they have been off for an entire day. That should add up to some savings.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-67446750410356585392010-02-16T22:51:00.002-05:002010-02-16T22:56:30.269-05:00

Coconut Creamor Lemon. When given the choice, several of my family members said, "Yes, please!"

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-71189352909958264022010-02-15T19:16:00.002-05:002010-02-15T19:22:57.042-05:00

Some days it seems like that's all I'm doing. Today is one of those days. I'm choosing to be thankful for:my adoring husbandmy loving childrenleftovers in the fridgeclean laundrya (relatively) warm homemy sweet Daisy and her constant love of cuddlingand the brightness that comes with the freshly fallen snow. It always feels better to look on the bright side.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-26065329699978774312010-02-14T00:01:00.000-05:002010-02-14T00:01:00.573-05:00

Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. And I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.” And the disciples said to him, “Where are we to get enough bread in such a desolate place to feed so great a crowd?” And Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?”

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-2418593297712834942010-02-13T14:27:00.004-05:002010-02-13T16:31:39.299-05:00

Mini chocolate cupcakes frosted with chocolate and coffee cream cheese buttercream sprinkled with a dusting of cocoa powder. Just a little inspiration for him to continue working on the fireplace.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-42928003956435112672010-02-12T12:18:00.004-05:002010-02-12T12:35:40.261-05:00

I wasn't going to participate, but as I looked back over the photos that I took this week I found two that screamed "loving" to me. I couldn't resist sharing them. Verne is building a fireplace for me in the corner of our dining room. Hopefully, one day soon I'll be able to show you photos of it. Until then, I can swoon over my husband's smile. I adore the way he looks at me!Verne is the hardest

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-91144208628098231552010-02-12T00:01:00.002-05:002010-02-12T00:01:00.031-05:00

I'm not a fan of marshmallows unless they are in hot chocolate or toasted. I've never been one to eat them straight out of the bag. Even so, I got the idea to dip them in chocolate and decorate them for Valentine's Day. I figured my husband and children would eat them, and I would just swoon over the cuteness. When I saw the pink (strawberry) marshmallows on the grocery store shelf, I knew I had

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-90278125825116423602010-02-11T06:00:00.000-05:002010-02-11T06:00:04.159-05:00

This is such an easy way to use up any leftover candy canes that you have hanging around from Christmas. Or, if you have no leftovers, you may be able to find some on clearance. I paid $.19 for 24!Hot glue two candy canes together to form a heart and hang with red ribbon. It's amazing how striking they are!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-22858422307743996832010-02-10T11:55:00.004-05:002010-02-10T12:03:42.237-05:00

After seeing this heart garland, I had the yearning to make my own. It couldn't be easier, and it's very pretty!Cut heart shapes out of felt in your choice of colors, and feed them through the sewing machine. (Thanks for sewing them Autumn!) The cutting out takes much longer than the sewing. Our garland has been hanging for a week now, and I'm nowhere near tired of it. It's so cheery on a rainy

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-78010424164183526222010-02-09T20:29:00.003-05:002010-02-09T20:47:03.933-05:00

Abigail, Autumn, and I welcomed 24 young ladies and women into our home today for a tea to celebrate God's love for us. The younger women participated in a button swap and read Scripture verses pertaining to love.On the menu:Vegetables and DipOrganic Cherry GelatinHam and Potato QuichePasta Fagioli SoupBroccoli and Cheese Soup Wrapped Lil Smokies Chocolate Dipped MarshmallowsPink Coconut

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-81794262204957277332010-02-08T23:55:00.002-05:002010-02-08T23:58:49.040-05:00

Dessert is always a bright spot, and on a cold winter day lemon pound cake really satisfies!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-68401579866235587182010-02-07T00:03:00.004-05:002010-02-07T00:25:27.974-05:00

And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-88123046001473251912010-02-06T09:42:00.003-05:002010-02-06T09:59:10.744-05:00

My husband makes sure that I feel loved and cherished each and every day. There doesn't need to be a special occasion before he surprises me, or tells me he loves me. He takes such joy in providing for me, and making me happy. Two days and a night alone with him are such a blessing. Antiquing, dining, and holding hands with no interruptions in our conversations are a dream come true. The way he

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-16125570053425159102010-02-04T19:45:00.001-05:002010-02-05T07:43:14.809-05:00

No more ripping out, for I've mastered the pattern at long last! And just for fun, can you name the book from the title?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-54578775594924138052010-02-03T00:29:00.001-05:002010-02-03T00:31:26.051-05:00

It's delicious enough to serve on a plate!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-10066696195476895792010-02-02T07:30:00.000-05:002010-02-02T07:30:03.083-05:00

Homemade ciabatta brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with Italian seasoning, topped with mayonnaise, cracked pepper turkey, hard salami, smoked ham, Colby-jack cheese, lettuce, cucumber, red onion, tomato slices, and banana peppers. Hungry yet?

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-3571568927876929852010-02-01T17:55:00.005-05:002010-02-01T23:44:31.379-05:00

Photo by CollinI'm anticipating the day that the clothesline is holding more than ice and snow!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-13986308192207554012010-01-31T00:01:00.002-05:002010-01-31T00:01:01.648-05:00

Our Father, who art in heaven,hallowed be thy name.Thy Kingdom come,thy will be done,on earth as it is in heavenGive us this day our daily bread.And forgive us our debts,as we forgive our debtors.And lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil.For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen Matthew 6:9-13

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-64096058906949732122010-01-30T13:19:00.011-05:002010-01-30T15:10:00.421-05:00

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-6826454650367604782010-01-29T09:42:00.008-05:002010-01-29T14:20:06.094-05:00

Because we are a homeschooling family, learning never stops. It happens at the dining room table, in the kitchen, at a desk, in the car, and in the yard. I love that!This week I'm learning patience. The above picture is a hat that I've been trying to crochet all week. I've ripped it out no less than 15 times. Sometimes, the ripping out comes just as I get to the last three rows. Each night after

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-17541980574971003802010-01-28T05:30:00.001-05:002010-01-28T05:30:01.795-05:00

Can you imagine having to run to your neighbor's house to borrow a pot every time you wanted to cook soup? Me, either. That's why I made Abigail her own crochet hook case. It's so much more fun to work on projects when you have your own tools! She's been diligently picking up her hook and yarn lately, and I thought that deserved a little reward. I went to my fabric stash and found the perfect

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-35924045996518562002010-01-27T05:30:00.002-05:002010-01-27T05:30:00.097-05:00

Tired of pink confections yet? Me either! Inspired by a wall hanging in Sew Pretty Christmas Homestyle, I came up with my own version, making a cupcake pyramid instead of their suggested three in a row. These hand-appliqued fairy cakes can satisfy any sweet tooth!Rather than plain white fabric for the icing tops, I used fusible fleece for a more three- dimensional look. I didn't bother with the

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-49059097814406699052010-01-26T14:13:00.005-05:002010-01-26T14:32:24.738-05:00

I just can't seem to get enough of pink confections lately. I don't necessarily have to eat them, I just need to create them. Abigail and I teamed up to create this easy sugary confection. One recipe makes plenty because it is so rich and the servings are small. You can find the recipe at Mama's Fixins.

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-56083667964784067892010-01-25T00:01:00.000-05:002010-01-25T00:01:00.053-05:00

These cookies are, hands down, our favorites. The recipe came from my dad's mom, though I don't ever recall her icing them. When my children were younger, I made them every month. Snowflakes, hearts, shamrocks, carrots and tulips, stars, etc. I hadn't made them for close to a year, and oh, how we've missed them!

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-9288310175831242522010-01-24T00:00:00.002-05:002010-01-24T00:09:23.462-05:00

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296105834039618441.post-76460480250898007702010-01-22T09:36:00.006-05:002010-01-22T09:58:34.584-05:00

Autumn can't resist hot dinner rolls (or bread of any kind!) and always likes to choose hers first. One thing that has always driven me crazy about our home is that the dining room light wasn't centered. Verne and Collin fixed that for me last Saturday. They're such gems!The kitties love to play with string; no matter that Chester is almost 8 years old and not really a kitty anymore. Casper

Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17316243882758535639noreply@blogger.com14