A Mother's Heart

Sharing In My Son's World

2011-05-08T21:02:00.004-04:00

The other night I attended a Video Games Live event. Not an event that I would have considered on my own to attend. My son bought tickets. He invited me to go. I went - to spend time with my him.

What a fun time we had. My experience with my son will be one of many wonderful memories sharing in something that he enjoys.

The Video Games Live tour was a concert. A concert consisting of an orchestra, a choir, an opera singer, a blind-folded keyboardist, and much more amazing talent.

I was highly impressed. This was truly a cultural experience that would appeal to all ages.

The best part of the night was that my son wanted ME to be there with him.

I loved spending time with my son; doing something that he likes.

Be a part of your child's world and they'll want to be a part of yours.

I love you Jonathan!

Rhubarb Custard Pie

2010-05-27T19:55:00.002-04:00

Need a recipe for all that extra rhubarb?!

Rhubarb Custard Pie

2 egg yolks

1 c sugar

2 tbsp all purpose flour

1 tbsp melted butter

2 1/2 c chopped rhubarb

Beat egg yolks with fork. Add sugar, flour, and butter. Blend together. Add rhubarb and stir together. Put mixture into pie shell. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes.

Make it as a double crust pie, or put a meringue on top.

Enjoy! It's very easy and very yummy.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

2010-02-09T18:52:00.003-05:00

I made Broccoli Cheddar Soup for the first time tonight. And it won't be the last.

Ingredients

1/2 c finely chopped onion

1/2 c butter

1/4 c all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 1/2 c chicken broth

3 c milk

3 c chopped cooked fresh broccoli

1 c shredded sharp cheddar cheese or more

Saute onion in butter until tender.

Stir in flour, salt and pepper.

Cook, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbly.

Add broth and milk. Heat but do not boil until thickened.

Stir in broccoli.

Heat through.

Stir in cheese until melted.

Do not boil.

Serve hot and garnish with shredded cheese.

This soup was delicious! I'm not kidding. We served it with a french baguette and filled our bowls a second time.

Sorry...no picture. :(

Better Late Than Never - Jonathan's 18th Birthday

2010-01-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

I have a wonderful son who celebrated his 18th birthday three weeks before Christmas. He is an amazing young man and his Dad & I are very proud of him.

Jonathan has strong values, loves God, loves his family and his friends.

Jonathan has lots of dreams and is currently entertaining ideas for his future. Yes - he's trying to decide what courses to take at college or university. He's trying to figure out 'what he wants to be when he grows up'. So many choices. Almost too overwhelming.

My son is very funny - he says that I'm his best audience. His humour and his genuine caring for others are my favourite qualities about him.

Happy Birthday Buddy! I love you.

How Will We Say 2010?

2009-12-30T21:22:00.002-05:00

Is next year Two-thousand-and-ten or Twenty-ten?

Who gets to decide?

I imagine that the Nineteen Hundreds were never referred to as One-thousand-nine-hundred-and...

Possibly for the past one thousand years, all of the centuries through the teens were spoken in double digits. Entering a new millennia has given us an opportunity to contemplate how we will speak and write our period of time that will reflect our own era.

As I mentioned previously - Who gets to decide?

Will it be advertisers and the like? Or someone with a formal degree? Someone voted into a position of office? Will it be from movies and television? Who will influence something with such long-term effect?

The Vancouver Olympics taking place in 2010 are officially being referred to as the 'twenty-ten Olympics'. The London Olympics taking place in 2012 is officially known as the 'twenty-twelve Olympics'.

However, the 2010 Rose Bowl Game is being referred to as 'two thousand ten'.

So..who gets to decide?

Happy Birthday Brittany

2009-11-03T19:16:00.010-05:00

Our darling youngest daughter, Brittany, celebrated her 14th birthday last week. While she was fighting the flu.

Her actual birthday was the 28th and she did not feel well that day. When she went to bed at night, she sadly told me that 'today did not feel like her birthday'. So, I decided that we would alter the calendar at our house. We would repeat the 28th the next day.

The next morning, I woke Brittany up, and greeted her with a 'Happy Birthday'. She smiled and was happy to 'play along'.

After school, I hugged her and asked her how her birthday was at school.

Once we arrived at home, I baked Brittany's favourite chocolate cake. Decorated with balloons and a banner.

We did a family supper at her favourite Chinese restaurant. And then cake and presents at home.

Meh!

2009-10-29T19:38:00.002-04:00

My least favourite expression: 'Meh.'

I was first introduced to this expression at Youth Convention this year. Some of the teenagers were using this new slang. In answer to how they were doing, they would say "meh". Or, if you asked them a 'yes' or 'no' question - they would answer... well, you know. 'Meh'.

I've grown to strongly dislike this phrase - Okay, I really hate it. And of course since I've voiced my opinion to my two teenagers - their enthusiasm to use it has grown. They love any opportunity to answer me with "meh". And then they watch and wait...for my reaction.

Sometimes I play it up and give them the reaction they're looking for. And sometimes I decide to completely not react at all.

I guess you could say that I feel 'meh' about the word MEH.

Fall Drive in the County

2009-10-25T12:29:00.015-04:00

Mark & I took Jonathan & Brittany for a drive in the County on Thanksgiving Weekend.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-10-25T12:14:00.003-04:00

I received a forwarded email on Friday. It included a recipe that was supposedly sent because a woman had visited a large department store and had been charged a large amount of money for a recipe that she thought was only costing her a few dollars.

Whether or not the email was true, I tried the recipe and the cookies are really good.

1 cup butter
350 g chocolate chips
2 cups flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. Baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
1 cup Grated Cadbury chocolate
2 1/2 cups oats
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 cups chopped nuts (optional)
Cream the butter and both sugars. Add eggs and vanilla, mix together with flour, oatmeal, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add chocolate chips, grated Chocolate and nuts. Roll into balls, and place two inches apart on a cookie sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes at 375 degrees (180 C).

Twilight

2009-10-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

Twilight is a novel that has developed into a series, written by Stephenie Meyer. I've discovered that the Twilight series has become a controversial subject amongst Christians.

Sue over at Praise and Coffee posted some questions looking for input from fellow Christians to hear their views on this novel.

I wasn't aware of the book until the movie had come out to theatres last fall. I saw the posters and immediately decided that this movie would most likely not be something I would want my 13 year-old daughter to see.

My daughter had heard all about Twilight - most of her friends at school were reading the books. She wanted to see the movie but I wasn't sure about it.

My older teenage son, works in the office at our movie theatre. He came home and told me that the movie wasn't anything to be worried about, that it was merely just a love story.

I conceded and allowed my daughter to see Twilight at the movie theatre. She is knowledgeable enough to know what is or isn't appropriate in a PG movie. After watching the movie, she agreed with her brother's recommendation.

I then allowed her to read the novel.

As the book was continuing to gain popularity, I had adult friends tell me that they had read Twilight - and enjoyed it very much. My adult girlfriends were devouring this new series and talking about it as much as the teenage girls were.

I don't often read a lot of fiction, but now and then I crave a good fiction book. Just as I enjoy being entertained by a good movie, my love for books will include some fiction entertainment. I'm very careful, though, with what I will allow to consume my time and thoughts.

This summer, as I was getting ready to start my holidays, I began to look for a fiction novel that might grab my interest during afternoons laying by my pool or while relaxing at the beach. It was very challenging. I bought two books and subsequently returned them.

I resorted to looking through my daughter's bookshelf. On a Friday afternoon at the beach, I brought along her Twilight novel. Two days later, on the Sunday afternoon, I finished that same novel. I couldn't put it down. It was very well written. I enjoyed Stephenie Meyer's writing style and admired her creativity.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and comments.

Grapes on the Vine

2009-09-30T15:48:00.002-04:00

I took this picture at a vineyard that I visited in Kelowna, BC this summer.

Do you need to change?

2009-07-21T14:50:00.005-04:00

Sometimes it happens this way. Something causes a change. Could be something good, could be something bad. But whatever it is, it might have been necessary in order for the change to take place.

I heard a Pastor say, that you cannot stay the same. If you're not progressing and building up your faith, then you're allowing yourself to lose faith. You must be continually building up your faith.

What will cause you to Change? What will cause you to 'wake-up'?

Celebrating our Children

2009-07-03T17:30:00.012-04:00

Two of our children recently graduated. Jonathan from grade twelve and Brittany from grade eight.

We celebrated as a family last weekend at our favourite restaurant; Lone Star. (Lone Star in the U.S. is not the the same as the one in Canada - our Canadian version is much better.)

We had a wonderful afternoon sitting on the patio, enjoying each others company and eating delicious food.

Brittany, Jonathan and Sarah

Mark and Brittany

Jonathan and me

Sarah

fixin's for fajitas (yum!)

Jonathan's steak sandwich

Jonathan's Grade Twelve Graduation

2009-06-26T15:53:00.012-04:00

Our son Jonathan graduated from high school last night. He received an Arts Specialist certificate along with his Ontario Scholar certificate. We are so very proud of him.

Jonathan and Mark

Jonathan and I

Jonathan and his sisters.

The whole family.

Jonathan and his buddies that he graduated with.

The boys and their moms.

Brittany's Paparazzi

2009-06-23T20:36:00.014-04:00

I wanted to be sure to get LOTS of pictures of Brittany at her graduation. Eventually, however, she didn't really like the fact that her own personal paparazzi wouldn't leave her alone. But she was a good sport, and decided to play along and just ham it up for the camera.

Brittany's Grade 8 Graduation

2009-06-21T22:23:00.016-04:00

Our school system here consists of elementary school ( junior & senior kindergarten, grades one thru eight) and secondary school (grades nine thru twelve). We have two graduation ceremonies, one from grade 8 before students enter high school and another from grade twelve, when they receive their high school diploma.

This weekend our youngest child, Brittany graduated from grade eight. It was a very exciting day preparing and a fun evening of celebrating.

Brittany's grade eight graduation was the same day as Jonathan's grade twelve prom. So, we were able to get some great pictures with both of them all dressed up.

The whole family.

Jonathan & Brittany

Our three children all together.

Brittany enjoying the attention.

Mark & I with our baby girl.

It's official - she has the certificate to prove it!

Daddy - Daughter dance.

The up-do.

I knew she'd want a picture of the back, even if she said she didn't.

Brittany & Sarah

I captured another shot of the up-do. After spending the money, lots of pictures were in order.

She's thinking her paparazzi mother is a little much.

Waving good-bye as the students are bused off to their grad dance.

Happy Father's Day!!

2009-06-21T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to my husband! Wonderful Father to our three children.

I love you!

Mark & Sarah

Mark & Jonathan

Mark & Brittany

Jonathan's Prom

2009-06-20T18:01:00.007-04:00

My 17 year old son, Jonathan, attended his grade twelve prom last evening.

Jonathan along with Mark & I.

Jonathan and his prom date, Kelsey.

Monday Night with Jonathan

2009-06-01T22:50:00.004-04:00

I had a very enjoyable evening with my son.

We went to the men's store and ordered his tuxedo for prom and then he took me to the movies.

Tonight was the night that we saw Wolverine. It was a really great movie. (I felt bad that my husband didn't come, because I know he'd love it. But not bad enough to give up one-on-one time with Jonathan.)

I have so much fun with my son. He makes me laugh so hard. Sometimes too hard. Sometimes my stomach hurts. But it's worth it. He's such a great kid. I love you Jonathan. Thanks for tonight. Thanks for all the one-on-one times.

X Men

2009-05-31T18:44:00.004-04:00

Last weekend when we were at Youth Convention we had a really great speaker, Robert Madu. One of the best speakers we've had.

In his last message he referenced Super Heroes and stated that his favourite Super Hero is Wolverine; one of the X Men.

When we came home Sunday night, Mark & Jonathan headed out to the movies. While I was home I decided to watch X Men. I wanted to know what Robert was talking about and how this compared to Christianity. I found one of our dvds; X Men The Last Stand. Without realizing it I watched the third movie first. The men in my home shook their heads and rolled their eyes when I told them what I had done.

Jonathan took it upon himself to educate me. He went out and purchased the first two movies in the series. We've watched the first one and tonight we'll be watching the second. Then I'll be all caught up.

He is planning to take me to the movies tomorrow evening so that we can see Wolverine together. My friend Juls thinks that Wolverine is the greatest. I'll soon know for myself.

If you're educated on X Men let me know what you think about the parallels to Christianity. Soon I'll be able to make an informed opinion. But, at the very least I'm enjoying some bonding time with my son. Something I always welcome!

Girls Night

2009-05-31T00:02:00.014-04:00

Time spent with girlfriends is so very important.

A little while back when we were out bowling with our Youth Group, one of our leaders suggested that we have a bowling night with some ladies-only. And we did. Tonight.

We had so very much fun. Thanks Juls for the wonderful idea!

First Sign of Summer

2009-05-30T13:44:00.005-04:00

My first sign of summer...the opening of the pool!

And if this summer is anything like last year....at least we have this:

Love Dare Banquet

2009-05-29T17:35:00.011-04:00

As I mentioned on a previous post here, our church did the book The Love Dare. Many couples participated and at the end of the 40 day Love-Dare we celebrated with a banquet followed with a renewal of vows.

Here are some of the pictures from our evening:

Tonight is Jack's Night

2009-05-18T17:16:00.003-04:00

I have a date tonight with 'another man'. I see him once a week. Every Monday night to be precise. His name is Jack. Jack Bauer. You might have a weekly date with him too.

Tonight is the season finale of 24. A two-hour episode and I'm looking forward to it. I have mixed emotions. I want to see everything come together, however, I will once again miss seeing Jack each week and will have to wait until next season to see him again. Which is most likely not until January 2010.

My husband got me hooked and we watch 24 together every week. We have friends that usually come over as well to watch with us.

Cutipitootie (Brittany)

2009-05-17T07:00:00.001-04:00

Our youngest daughter, Brittany, got a new haircut the other day.

I found some pictures that she took of herself to show of her new 'do'.

French Exchange

2009-05-16T10:53:00.005-04:00

Last week my daughter Brittany's class hosted a French exchange. A grade eight class from Quebec was matched with them and came here to stay for a week. The Quebec students were each hosted individually in the homes of the students here.

The students from Quebec live in a very remote native reserve. It took them 16 hours to travel here which included a bus ride and two planes.

The students connected with each other on msn and facebook prior to meeting each other. As the students here got to know the students from Quebec, they discovered that their lifestyle there was very different from theirs here. The lifestyle of a teenager in a remote native reserve fishing village doesn't seem to offer very much hope and the pictures of their free-time activites reflected that.

Our girl arrived late on a Wednesday night and left this past Wednesday morning. She was very easy to have in our home. Her English was very limited. Brittany did a lot of translating.

Any concerns we initially had with our daughters class connecting with a group of teenagers that were more worldly-wise diminished with the opportunity to show hope and love.

I asked my daughter on the last night of our Quebec girl's stay at our home if the girl was homesick. Brittany informed me that her friend was not homesick and in fact she did not want to leave.

Brittany learned that while our gas has been around 79 cents a litre - theirs is over $2 a litre. They also have to order their bread and milk a week ahead of time and if enough is not ordered, then they do without. Everything is shipped in to their village.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T13:05:00.008-04:00

Her children arise and call her blessed. Proverbs 31:28

20 years ago I was pregnant with my first child. I have loved every moment of being a Mom. God blessed me with three wonderful children.

Today, my children Sarah, Jonathan and Brittany presented me with some portraits that they had done for me for Mother's Day.

Sarah

2009-04-28T08:33:00.005-04:00

My daughter Sarah.

Dear Mom by Melody Carlson

2009-04-25T06:44:00.003-04:00

Dear Mom by Melody Carlson

I have not read this book.

I have just received an email promoting this new book and from what I'm reading, I think it sounds very good.

Here's what they have to say:

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Hear your daughter’s heart…
without the angst, arguments, or arm-wrestling

Raising a teen daughter can be like trying to chart a course underwater. You can drown in an ocean of one-word answers, defensive conversations, and unpredictable outbursts, and never get anywhere. Popular teen girls’ novelist Melody Carlson helps you cut through murky, deep, uncharted and seemingly unsafe waters so you can hear what your daughter’s really trying to tell you through her anger, silence, and mixed messages:

“I need you, but I won’t admit it.”
“I’m not as confident as I appear.”
“I have friends. I need a mother.”

Instead of focusing on outward behaviors, Dear Mom captures your daughter’s heart and soul. You can know your daughter’s hopes and fears, doubts and dreams about her identity, guys, friendships, and even you. And you can connect on a deeper, more intimate level that will carry both you and your daughter through the stormy seas of life.

This book is available through Amazon.

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T07:01:00.001-04:00

Scented Sachets

2009-04-18T20:03:00.000-04:00

Last weekend while visiting Mark's parents, we drove to Auburn Hills in Michigan and went shopping at the Great Lakes Crossing Shopping Mall.

I bought some wonderful scented sachets by The Willowbrook Company.

Now that I've tried them, I knew that I needed to tell you about them. They smell so nice and you can put them anywhere. I have one in each of three of my bathrooms. All you have to do is shake them gently to increase the scent.

No worry of aerosols or burning candles. A lovely scent in a lovely package. And very affordable too.

I'm sure these little packets will be showing up in homes everywhere.

Hannah Montana The Movie

2009-04-18T09:00:00.002-04:00

Last weekend I went to the movies with my two daughters. We saw Hannah Montana The Movie.

If any of you have not yet seen this movie, I highly recommend it. It's a great Disney family movie.

There was certainly a lot more depth to this movie than I expected. My oldest daughter and I were sniffling through lots of it.

It's a great story about returning to your roots and the importance of family.

Here's one of our favorite songs from the movie. The Climb by Miley Cyrus.

Susan Boyle / Follow Your Dreams

2009-04-17T23:16:00.003-04:00

If you haven't seen Susan Boyle's performance on Britain's Got Talent, then you need watch this video clip.

Unfortunately the embedding code has been disabled. Please click on the following link to see this surprising audition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

Miss Abigail

2009-04-16T22:35:00.005-04:00

One of the sweet couples that helps us in Youth Ministry has an adorable little girl. She comes with them each week and you can't help but love on her. I have to share some of my pictures of Miss Abigail.

Abigail worshipping with my husband (Pastor Mark)

We love her parents who coincidentally met when they helped chaperone at their first Youth event.

More to come on the adorable Miss Abby!

Playing with the D60

2009-04-16T15:42:00.004-04:00

I had some fun taking some close-up pictures of the lovely pink roses that my husband gave me.

The Love Dare

2009-04-02T19:00:00.004-04:00

On Friday night we showed the movie FireProof at our church. I was amazed at the response to it.

The next morning we launched a 40-day Love Dare with many couples who are desiring to recommit to, to rediscover and to develop a deeper commitment with their covenant marriage partner.

I am very excited about this journey for my own marriage and for all of the couples that this movement is impacting.

I was talking to one friend last evening who was describing to me how her husband called the place where she was and had it announced over the p.a. that he loved her.

Another friend was sharing with me her idea of a special gift that she is planning to present to her husband.

Sharing love stories is so wonderful.

I came downstairs this evening and discovered a beautiful bouquet of pink roses on my kitchen table. I had fun with my camera taking some pretty photos while my husband was preparing a yummy supper.

If you haven't seen the movie, rent it, buy it, borrow it. I highly recommend it.

Spring Break - A Day At The Royal Ontario Museum

2009-03-19T12:25:00.007-04:00

Our youngest daughter is taking French Immersion in school. The curriculum for this type of education has not included a visit to either the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Centre.

We chose to experience the museum with her and took her to Toronto for the day (while our other two children were working).

Me and Brittany

Brittany in front of the entrance to the China display.

Mark beside his Greek 'look-a-like'.

We left downtown Toronto while Brittany longingly watched out the window as we drove past Gucci, MAC, Coach, Lululemon, Sephora, Prada, Puma, Chanel, Tiffany and other stores along Bloor Street that she would have loved to have entered.

We instead took her to the Pickering Town Centre before stopping at Jack Astor's for supper followed by a drive-thru stop at Starbucks. All-in-all we had a really great day.

I appreciate my husband for planning such a wonderful day for our daughter and I.

Twitter

2009-03-17T13:10:00.004-04:00

Apparently 'all the world's a twitter'. Now I am too.

I 've decided to join 'the world' and try to Twitter.

The New York Times calls Twitter "one of the fastest-growing phenomena on theInternet."

Alright...so now I will be 'twittering' too.

What about you?

Ready to join the phenomena?? Already twittering?

Sarah's Girls Group

2009-03-14T19:00:00.001-04:00

My 19 year old daughter Sarah mentors a girls' group. She started last year with two girls when they entered high school. They met together and studied the book God Called A Girl by Shannon Kubiak.

This year the group has seen some new girls join in. They are now studying His Girl by Vicki Courtney; a book and dvd series.

Sarah affectionately refers to the young ladies in her group as 'my girls'. Sarah loves mentoring.

Last night Sarah had the girls overnight at our house for a sleepover with snacks, movies and hot-tubbing. Including Sarah, there were eight of them all sprawled in our family room with sleeping bags & pillows. This morning my husband made the young ladies breakfast with waffles, sausage and bacon.

I snapped a couple of pictures this morning after one of the girls had already left. Sarah wouldn't let me include herself, so she's missing as well.

The girls are playing a card game called 'Spoons'.

Here they are playing 'The Laughing Game'.

These girls are wonderful young ladies and were so much fun to have in our home.

Mark's Africa Video

2009-03-14T09:32:00.001-04:00

My husband recently returned from a missions trip to Africa along with a 24 member team. This team contained some separate mini teams. These teams served separately in areas of Medical, Construction, Pastoral Ministries and Children & Youth Ministries.

Mark took along a video camera and the above is an edited version of some of the film that he shot throughout the trip.

Dirty Dancing Date in Toronto

2009-03-07T21:50:00.014-05:00

Today was the day! My husband took me to Toronto for our date to go see Dirty Dancing!!

We left home this morning and our first stop was breakfast at Denny's.

We took a scenic drive into Toronto and arrived with plenty of time for our matinee performance. We lucked in with parking right in front of the theatre.

Mark and I at our seats waiting for the performance to begin.

The show was wonderful. They stayed so true to the movie. I recommend it. The music was so much fun and the performers were outstanding.

After the performance, we went out for supper. We checked on-line yesterday to see if there were any Keg Steakhouse restaurants near the theatre. We found one that was called The Keg Mansion. Mark decided that this location would perhaps be worthy of our special day.

The Keg Mansion

We had an absolutely delicious meal and our waitress was very attentive with lots of stories in regards to the history of the mansion.

We finished the night off with a stop at Starbucks before driving home.

Today was one of the most memorable romantic dates I've had with my husband. And I've had lots! But I must say that today was one of the best!

Animals That Call Africa Home

2009-03-03T22:36:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favourite pictures that my husband brought home from his trip in Africa. There are miles of animals in this picture. Animals that we can see in our zoos here in North America. Elephants, zebras, giraffes. Animals that roam free in their home of Africa.

Back from Africa

2009-02-26T18:09:00.004-05:00

I missed him immensely, but my husband is now back from his missions trip to Africa.

Faith of a Child

2009-02-21T12:45:00.007-05:00

Maureen & Brittany

My youngest daughter, Brittany, shared the lesson this week at her Junior High class. She spoke on healing. You see one of her leaders, Maureen, is going to have some surgery this week. Maureen is genuinely loved be all the students in the Junior High class.

Please visit Maureen's blog site as she has written a beautiful tribute.

Jonathan's Weekend At Liberty

2009-02-16T13:02:00.013-05:00

My son and his friend went to CFAW (College for a Weekend) at Liberty University this past weekend.

His mom and I drove them to Toronto to meet a chartered bus that drove them all night Wednesday night and arrived in Virginia on Thursday morning.

We left home with lots of time to get there. I wanted to be able to go out for supper and relax a bit before turning around and heading back home again.

As soon as we got on the highway two of my indicator lights on my dashboard lit up. The Engine Warning light came on as well as the one for low air pressure in a tire. Great! I wasn't too worried about the engine light since it wasn't flashing, but I was concerned about the low air in the tire light. Driving to Toronto & back with a soft tire might not be a good idea.

Meanwhile, it's starting to get dark and some heavy fog is setting in. Actually, very thick fog. We found where we needed to be, but couldn't see much of anything beyond where we were.

I went into a store and asked about nearby restaurants, since it was difficult to see what all was close by. The store clerk mentioned a few places, but then crossed one off the list because the waitresses dress scantily. I agreed that it would certainly not be a good choice because I had two teenage boys with me. The store clerk upon hearing this information told me that if I had teenage boys then I should go to this restaurant because the boys would like it there. I quickly informed her that No - it really wouldn't be a good idea for me to take my son there.

We decided to go to supper at Jack Astors. I'd been to one twice before and knew the food was good. This particular restaurant has a turn-style door at the entrance. We each walked through a separate partition of the door and as we did we are reading separate signs posted on the door that says they are closed for the evening. As we enter, they inform us that they are closed because they are shooting a commercial! It was now pouring rain outside so we were more concerned about getting inside rather than stopping to read a sign.

We ended up at the restaurant adjacent, Alice Fazooli's; an upscale Italian restaurant. The food was excellent and we had a great 'date night' with our two sons before they departed.

My friend Cathy and her son Brandon.

Jonathan and I

The above pictures were taken with Brandon's phone, which is probably why they're a little dark.

The bus arrived just after 9:00pm and we got the boys and their stuff loaded on. At this point it is raining heavily. As Cathy and I were preparing to head back home I realized that I had not checked my tire. We stopped at a nearby gas station and found an air pump. Air at this particular station costs $1. We were trying to move quickly as we were getting drenched. Neither of us were proficient at pumping air into tires. The air machine had two slots for coins; one slot for quarters and one slot for loonies. I inserted 4 quarters in the first slot only to discover that I put the quarters in the wrong slot. Don't get them mixed up because it doesn't give your money back! Luckily I found 4 more quarters.

Remember, it is down pouring and we really have no idea what we are doing!

We couldn't find the psi (or whatever you call it) written on the tire because it was so dark. So we pumped air into the tire until it look better. The indicator light did not change... but the tire at least looked better.

I got back in the van...now drenched.

Now time to head home. In thick fog. Argh! The thick fog and heavy rain were not fun to drive in. My shoulders were tense the whole way home.

Earlier in the afternoon the Weather Network issued a Rainfall Warning. At the time, I thought to myself a 'warning for rain?', now really how bad could some rain be?

Well, it certainly made sense now, as I was driving with my wipers on the highest speed, barely able to keep up.

I returned to Toronto to pick Jonathan and Brandon up on Sunday.

Sunday was a beautiful sunny day. I took my daughter Brittany and we spent the better part of the day shopping at the Eaton's Centre. We went out for supper and then to a movie before the bus arrived. The bus was meeting all the parents at one of the bigger movie theatres, so watching a movie to fill in some time seemed like the perfect thing to do.

The trip to pick them up certainly made up for the horrible night I had when I dropped them off!!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2009-02-14T19:53:00.015-05:00

My husband left me a Valentines card before he departed for Africa with strict instructions not to open it before February 14.

This morning, as soon as I woke up, that card was ripped open. My wonderful husband gave me the sweetest card with the most loving and meaningful verse written in it.

But, inside the card was this...

Mark is taking me to see the musical Dirty Dancing. I am very excited. My husband is very romantic and he is very thoughtful.

I had a wonderful Valentines Day today. I celebrated with my two beautiful daughters.

Sarah gave me a pair of pretty fresh water pearl earrings from the store that she is working at and Brittany did my makeup. My children are so sweet.

We went to Boston Pizza for some heart-shaped pizza. Boston Pizza sells heart-shaped pizza one day of the year and $1 of every one sold goes to support the Heart and Stroke Foundation. This is my third year in a row going here on Valentines Day.

I decided to invite my mom & dad to come along with us.

My mom and dad especially enjoyed being out for dinner with us. My mom surprised me and paid for our meal. And she insisted on us all ordering dessert. What a wonderful blessing. I so appreciated this special surprise.

After dinner my girls and I are curling up with a movie. We're ending the day by watching Titanic. Neither of my daughters have seen it before. Sarah was too young to see it when it first came out.

Hope you had a wonderful Valentines Day too!

I Had One of THOSE Moments

2009-02-14T10:44:00.005-05:00

Whenever my husband has been away over the years one thing that my children have always liked to do is to sleep in my bed.

One night this week, Brittany was happily tucked in with me. We had gone to bed early because she wanted to read and I wanted to watch a dvd.

I like using the laptop to watch movies when my husband isn't home.

I didn't want to disturb Brittany or keep her up later than she needed to be, so I used earphones to listen to the movie. I told her to just read her book for a bit and then turn out the lights before she goes to sleep.

We were nicely settled in and I was watching the movie for a little while when a funny part happened on the screen. I laughed. And so did Brittany. At the same time.

Surprised at this coincidence, I asked her what she was laughing it.

We have a king sized bed and Brittany and I were far enough a part that I knew she wasn't watching the movie with me.

She told me that she was laughing at the scene in the movie. Laughing at what she had just heard. Puzzled, I asked her how she knew what had just happened. She told me that she was listening to it.

Confused I asked her how could she be since I was listening to it through earphones. She informed me that she could indeed hear it. Once again, I didn't understand how that could be so.

Then, Brittany leaned over, unplugged my earphones, so that I could see that there was no difference in sound. Then, my daughter, took the plug to my earphones and inserted it into the correct outlet in the laptop.

Yes. I indeed was listening to the dvd through the external speakers....with earphones plugged into my ears.

My wise 13 year old daughter just smiled and shook her head. And so did I.

Thoughtful Friends

2009-02-13T21:28:00.005-05:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that my husband is in Africa on a missions trip and that I wasn't looking forward to him being gone.

This is not the first time that my husband has been away from home. Usually, we respond to his absence with lots of fun distractions. But this time it's been very different. I can't explain why. But, I can say that it is getting better, as the week goes on.

The first morning after Mark left, Sarah called me at work to say that her car would not start. She was getting ready to drive her younger sister to school. Sarah and I were both a little frustrated that this had to happen the very day after her dad left. I knew I that couldn't leave my work and that Brittany needed to get to school.

Sarah called our friends Mark & Jen and they came right away to her aid. They drove Brittany to school and ensured that Sarah and her car were fine.

Jen works at the school where I work. Her work day starts a little bit later than mine does. When she came to work later that morning she brought me a treat. She brought me a big bag of M&M peanuts. She knows that I really like them. What a wonderfully thoughtful gesture and at exactly the right time.

The next day, Jen, along with her two daughters, took me and Brittany shopping for the day. Shopping is something that I highly enjoy. We had a very successful trip, finding a very cute grad dress for Brittany, a stop at Lululemon for the girls and a yummy lunch at LoneStar. We arrived back home quite late and physically spent.

Thanks Jen for your kind efforts and your thoughtfulness!!! I very much appreciated it.

My Very Thoughtful Son

2009-02-10T22:52:00.000-05:00

I have a very thoughtful son.

While his Dad is away on a missions trip, Jonathan has been extra helpful in many ways around the house.

Last night while I was out for dinner, celebrating Shari's birthday, I let him use the van.

When I arrived home, he excitedly showed me his purchases. Supplies for school and a toy for the dog. But one more surprise.

He had bought me a Valentine! My son will be away on Valentine's Day and he wanted to be sure to give me a gift.

I am so very thankful and so very proud of him.

I love you Jonathan!

MOM

Happy Birthday Shari

2009-02-10T20:15:00.006-05:00

A good friend of mine, Shari, celebrated a birthday this past Sunday.

Her husband, the senior Pastor at our church, is away on the missions trip to Africa that my husband is on.

I, along with some other friends, celebrated with her at a local restaurant.

Leanne, Cathy, Shari, Cyndi, me, Jolie

Shari & Tammy

Shari enjoying her birthday dessert.

Happy Birthday Shari!

I'm Trying to Smile

2009-02-05T17:09:00.005-05:00

I found it hard to smile this week. I was preoccupied with today, February 5.

Yesterday, I was stressed about it. My eyes filled up with tears a few times while I was at work on Wednesday. I tried to distract myself, but my mind kept doing its own thing.

My husband is a part of a 23 member team that is going to Africa. They left today.

No, I am not worried. I know that God is in control.

This team will be doing some wonderful ministry during their trip. It will be God-inspired, God-led and God-filled. I am very excited for each member of this team. I know they will return home richly blessed and probably feel that they've received in their spirits more than they have given.

But....I hate being apart from my husband. I don't like that he'll be so very many miles away. And all the way across the ocean.

I'll be missing him desperately.

Thankfully I have two children that can drive and all of my kids are old enough to look after themselves. Well, at least I know that they are capable of looking after themselves.

As I'm writing this, I've received an email from him while he's waiting for takeoff. He sent me a picture of him sitting on the plane.

I'm frequently checking his flight status. I love that I can see where his plane is.

In the mean time, I'll be counting down to when I get him back.

Nick's New Heart Winner!!!

2009-02-01T14:22:00.003-05:00

A winner has been chosen using Random.org.

And the winner is.................

Angie from Chloe & Morgan

Congratulations Angie!
Please send me your mailing address and I will get the book to you in the mail.

Nick's New Heart Book Review and Giveaway!

2009-01-29T22:37:00.003-05:00

NICK'S NEW HEART by Susan May
Hardcover: 182 pages
Publisher: Tiger Iron Press; 1st edition (2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0978726324
ISBN-13: 978-0978726324

I received an email a while back from Susan May asking me if I would consider reading and reviewing her book. I replied right away and told her that I would be honored.

The book arrived just ahead of Christmas along with a note from Susan wishing me a Merry Christmas. What a wonderful personal touch.

Nick's New Heart is a true story. Susan has written about her youngest son Nick who received a heart transplant 17 years ago when he was only two years of age.

Susan's story is one of a mother's love.

She has completely chronicled the life of her son Nick and her experiences with raising a chronically ill child. She describes in detail the emotions and also the medical procedures that were experienced from the day he was born when the doctors initially had cause for concern.

Susan invites you into her life. She shares with you her highs and her lows. Her story is one of family. A family that is thriving and living life to the fullest. She lives by example and takes away all excuses.

I recommend this book. It is very informative about medical procedures and transplant care. Susan gives such insight into the importance of organ donation. But, what this book is really about is Love, Strength and Courage (as is written on the cover.) Susan tells how they could not have done what they needed to do without the wonderful support system that surrounded them.

You can learn more about Susan and her book here.

Now for the best part!!!!!!!

I'm going to share this book with one of you. I have carefully read my copy to keep it in new condition. I will draw a name from the comments left and I will mail this book to the lucky winner!

All you have to do is leave a comment and let me know you would like to be entered!

You have until Saturday January 31 at 11:59pm est. I will announce the winner on Sunday February 1 in the morning.

Good Luck!

If you don't win, I recommend that you order yourself a copy of Nick's New Heart. It's available at Amazon.

A Better Giver

2009-01-28T17:43:00.003-05:00

I start my work day 30 minutes later than everyone else in my office. Today, before I arrived, a Starbucks order was taken. The boss was treating. My co-workers inadvertently forgot to order something for me.

No big deal. I don't drink coffee anyway.

I'll admit it. I was a trifle disappointed to feel forgotten. To not be included in something 'special' that only happens upon occasion.

But, I don't drink coffee - so not a big deal.

The boss brought back a Hot Chocolate and actually handed it to me, until someone else mentioned that it wasn't supposed to be for me.

I do drink Hot Chocolate.

Tonight, after I came home from work, my husband, the man that loves me, came in the door with a Starbucks Hot Chocolate. For me!

He did not know about my morning at work. I hadn't told him. It was silly. It was really no big deal.

But, my husband bringing me a Hot Chocolate from Starbucks, now that was a big deal.

Thank you Honey!! I love you!!

Movie Night

2009-01-27T19:44:00.004-05:00

Brittany and I went to the movies tonight. Sarah & Jonathan were both working this evening and Mark wasn't interested in our movie choice, so he stayed home. We saw Hotel For Dogs.

We both enjoyed it. It's a great movie to take younger children to. The theater that we were in was full. Brittany loves 'dog' movies so she gave it two thumbs up. It definitely had some moments where you could feel your heart strings being tugged. Hotel For Dogs had a great story about family.

Last week Brittany and I saw Paul Blart Mall Cop and I must say that it was funnier than I expected and would be my preference between the two. However, Hotel for Dogs would be a better choice for younger children.

Weekend Recap

2009-01-24T22:03:00.009-05:00

The high school that I work at has been presenting the musical, The Sound of Music. The play was being performed last weekend and this weekend. The cast has been receiving lots of well deserved praise. Last night, Mark, Sarah, Brittany & I went to see the performance. It made for a really nice evening out. It's so nice to support local theater, especially great talent at the school where I work and where my children attend.

Jonathan wasn't interested in seeing the play. He was out with his buddies. Tammy's son hosted a party while his parent's are in Mexico. Hope the house is still intact! (Just kidding - they are a great bunch of boys that anyone would be happy to have in their home.)

Today we all slept in. This was 'exam week' for the high school kids. I think everyone was worn out. When someone in the house is writing exams, we all get to suffer.

Mark and I spent most of our afternoon picking up groceries. Teenagers love food!! After we came home, I got some chili cooking in the crock pot. And then I baked. I love to bake. I made some brownies and some blueberry muffins. I wanted to try a different blueberry muffin recipe. So, I visited the Pioneer Woman's site and tried this one. They taste pretty good.

Brittany and I stopped by Starbucks today and we saw one of the young men that was in the high school play. She was pretty excited when she recognized him, so I took the opportunity to compliment him while she was with me. What fun!

After filling our bellies with yummy chili, fries and garlic bread we all curled up and watched a movie. Such a great way to spend an evening when it's extremely cold outside. For any of you that live in the deep south, I want you to know that this evening my temperature here is -9 F or -23 C. Yes, you read right. It's just stupid cold here! Man, am I ever thankful for my gas fireplace.

Obama May Reverse Abortion Policy

2009-01-21T18:24:00.014-05:00

The above picture makes me very sad. It is difficult for me to believe that a father could verbalize or even think such a statement.

Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)
Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you...

Tomorrow is the 36th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that imposed abortion in the United States. TOMORROW, President Obama is reportedly preparing to
strike down the "Mexico City policy" -- a lifesaving measure that currently prohibits U.S. taxpayer dollars from funding international abortion groups.

See the CNN story at: http://snipurl.com/ah1wn

Are you interested in praying for abortion to end?
Visit Bound 4 Life or Bound 4 Life Canada.

Remember to pray for the government.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)
1I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

What IF His people prayed???

History in the Making

2009-01-20T20:29:00.008-05:00

I was able to watch the Inauguration today, while I was at work. I watched at my desk on the CNN live feed. The people I work with felt it was an important event to see. (My co-workers were a little more awestruck with America's choice than I was; but I still appreciated the opportunity to view 'history in the making'.)

It was certainly an incredible occasion to witness. Seeing all of the Past Presidents and dignitaries as they entered in preparation of the swearing-in ceremony was inspiring.

As this new President begins his presidency, we need to come along side of him in prayer.

May we agree with Rick Warren's plea to God:

Give to our new president Barack Obama the wisdom to lead us with humility, the courage to lead us with integrity, the compassion to lead us with generosity. Bless and protect him, his family, Vice President Biden, the Cabinet, and every one of our freely elected leaders.

Whether or not Obama was yours or my choice for President does not matter. We are called to cover the government in prayer.

I must say that I was quite impressed that America's new President chose to say his presidential oath using Lincoln's bible.

Photoshoot with Sarah

2009-01-17T14:59:00.011-05:00

I was able to convince my daughter Sarah to allow me to practice taking pictures with my new camera today, using her as my model.

We headed down to the water, which proved to be very cold. My fingers hurt.

Today's temps are -9C or 15F. It felt much colder than that.

But, a chance to finally get to play with my new toy. My Nikon D60. Was worth it.

Here are the results.

My fingers were too cold. So we came back home and I took this next one indoors while she was on the computer. (Checking her Facebook.)

Gran Torino The Movie

2009-01-11T16:45:00.006-05:00

Last night Mark and I went to see the movie Gran Torino starring Clint Eastwood.

I recommend this movie. We both enjoyed it very much.

There is such a strong message in this movie about relationships. It is very powerful and left the two of us with lots to discuss afterward.

Keep in mind that this movie does have coarse language in it and it is definitely not politically correct. If that is something that you cannot get past, then this is not the movie for you.

If you go see Gran Torino, be sure and let me know what you think.

The Weekend....so far

2009-01-10T16:44:00.004-05:00

Mark declared that Friday night was Pizza Night. Mmmmm. Pizza is never a bad idea in my books. We ordered from Papa John's our new favorite pizza spot. (Papa John's only opened here this past summer.) Thankfully they had a 3-pizza special, getting everyone to agree on toppings is just not possible anymore.

After supper our daughters and I went to the movies. Sarah wanted to see Bride Wars. The theatre was full and thankfully we found three seats together. And yes, we enjoyed the movie. (However, I wouldn't recommend it for younger viewers.)

Saturday morning, Mark awoke us with yummy smells of breakfast cooking. Scrambled eggs, bacon and pancakes. What a wonderful way to start the day with everyone around the table together.

Saturday, like any other day, means busy schedules. While Mark picked up groceries, Jonathan, Brittany and I hit the mall to pick up a birthday gift for the party she is attending today.

Brittany will be sleeping over at the birthday party girl's home and the others will be out too. So, Mark & I will have a date night tonight. He wants to see Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood.

We have a busy house, but because they're all teenagers with busy lives, that means Mark & I still get our share of alone time.

How's your weekend going so far?

Highway of Heroes

2009-01-06T06:52:00.003-05:00

You need to see what made the News!

We should feel incredibly proud to be Canadian. This report was on NBC Nightly News.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Thank you to Brian Williams and to NBC News.

Chronological Study Bible by Thomas Nelson

2009-01-04T17:34:00.007-05:00

Chronological Study Bible
Hardcover: 1728 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (October 14, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0718020682

I received an email a while back asking me if I'd be interested in reviewing Thomas Nelson's new Chronological Study Bible. Of course, I said 'Yes'!

I thought that with lots of us making New Year's resolutions, this review would be very timely. If your goal is to read or re-read through the bible this year, you may want to read it in chronological order. The Chronological Study Bible puts the events of the Bible in historical context.

This Bible is a lovely burgundy hardcover with the above illustrated cover jacket. The pages are filled with beautiful color graphics of the Bible times. There are lots of insets, notes and pictures that make this Bible very informative.

The text is in the New King James Version (NKJV) with notes and time lines.

This is the only study Bible arranged in chronological order that is available.

This Bible is laid out in the order of the nine epochs along with dates at the top of each page. At the front of the Bible is a Table of Contents, a Time Charts contents and a Time Panels each listing the epochs in order along with the historical events that coincided.

At the back of the Bible there is a list of Cultural and Historical Topics that are referenced by page number where information is found on the corresponding topic. There is also a Glossary, a Concordance and an Index of Scripture Passages. The final eight pages are 9 colored maps of the historical Bible times.

I love the idea of studying the Bible in chronological order. It makes it much easier to put Bible history in the same context as world history. I especially appreciate the the four gospels written all together into the one story of Jesus' life.

If you are interested in history & time lines and how Bible history connects to what is taking place today, then you will enjoy this Bible.

I suggest that you visit the Chronological Study Bible web site here to get more detailed information.

I like this Bible very much and highly recommend it.

New Years Day 2009

2009-01-01T18:58:00.006-05:00

New Years Day at our house was very quiet. We slept in quite late recuperating from last night's fun.

I baked some banana muffins for a late breakfast snack. The recipe is here.

I did some laundry (this tends to be a daily 'fun' thing for me)

We took down all of our Christmas decorations and have restored our home back to normal.

Mark & Jonathan played some XBox.

I watched some movies with my daughters and worked on my 1000-piece puzzle that I bought on boxing day.

Mark cooked a yummy prime rib roast for our New Years Day supper.

We ate a little early so that we could have a meal as a family before Jonathan headed off to work at the theater.

It was such a nice relaxing day spent with all of my children at home.

Brittany, Jonathan and Sarah at the supper table.

Mark, Brittany, Jonathan and Sarah at the supper table.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Happy New Year's Eve

2008-12-31T18:33:00.004-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year's Eve!

We'll be celebrating this evening with friends at their home along with some other guests.

We've celebrated the last day of the year many different ways over the years. Sometimes with one other family, many times with a whole house full at the same friend who is hosting us tonight, sometimes out for dinner with adults only, one year we celebrated with just our children taking them out for supper and a late movie.

Eighteen years ago my husband and I rang in the new year at Universal Studios. They hand delivered little glasses of champagne to everyone before the fireworks started just ahead of midnight. That was a fun evening.

I enjoy celebrating with my husband, my children and my friends.

I wish you a wonderful New Year's Eve with your loved ones! Keep safe and have fun bringing in 2009!

Not So Nice People and Nice People

2008-12-30T21:41:00.004-05:00

I went to the movies this afternoon. Actually a whole bunch of us went together to see Marley & Me.

Today is 'Cheap Tuesday'. Movies are normally $9.95 for adults but on Tuesdays all tickets are only $4.20.

We got there 30 minutes early in order to get good seats. Unfortunately, everyone else in the theatre arrived earlier than we did.

The line was right out the door.

We were able to get tickets but there were no seats for everyone together. We had to divide up through out the theatre. There were seats enough for everyone to sit in pairs; but there were an odd number of us. We needed one spot with three seats together in order to accommodate all of us.

I spotted two empty seats next to two ladies who had one empty seat on the other side of where they were sitting. I asked the lady that was seated next to the single empty seat if it was taken. She informed me that it was not. Perfect!

I explained our situation and our need of three seats together. I asked her if she would be able to do me a big favor and move over one seat.

She said NO! She did not smile. She did not look sympathetic. She did not apologize. She did not feel badly at all!

I was not asking her to give up an aisle seat. I was nicely asking her to do one little act of decency. Argh! It was simply not within her to be nice. Not today anyway.

I could not believe it. I had never encountered anyone so down right mean.

In the midst of my disbelief and disappointment another lady, a row ahead, determined that the friends she was saving seats for were not coming and that there would be three empty seats next to her. Three empty seats together. I was relieved. No one would be sitting alone.

I was overjoyed.

We enjoyed the movie. It was a great way to spend some time with friends and family during the holidays.

My New Toy

2008-12-27T18:31:00.005-05:00

My very wish came true....

I am now a proud owner of a Nikon D60. A gift from my husband for Christmas.

Yes, I know. I am beyond spoiled.

I now have no good reason not to post fabulous pictures on my blog.

I'm still getting through the user manual and learning what I need to know. (Not even close yet.)

I love the fact that there are lots of automatic settings that I can use until I get good with the manual ones.

My family and every object in my home is no longer safe from my lense and shutter finger. I've been having so much fun.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2008-12-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11 (KJV)

Cookies for Santa

2008-12-23T18:25:00.007-05:00

Brittany with her decorated cookie.

I have made Sugar Cookies every Christmas for Santa since I was a little girl. I have continued the tradition with my own children.

My daughters enjoy baking and decorating these cookies. My husband and son enjoy eating them.

Sugar Cookies
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
6 tbsp butter
1/2 cup shortening
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla

Stir together flour, baking powder and 1/4 tsp salt. Beat butter and shortening for 30 seconds; add sugar and beat till fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla; beat well. Add dry ingredients to beaten mixture, beating till well combined. Cover and chill at least 3 hours. Working with 1/2 the dough at a time, on a lightly floured surface roll to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in 375 oven for 8 minutes or till done.

You can sprinkle decorating sugar on the cookies before you cook them or we like to icing them after they are cooked and cooled.

To make it easier, I buy white icing and divide it into separate small bowls and use food coloring for fun decorating.

Enjoy!

Pre-Baking and Pie Crust Recipe

2008-12-22T16:52:00.007-05:00

I am very blessed to have two weeks off at Christmas!

I felt so spoiled to be able to be home all day today.

I finalized my wrapping this morning. Except for my stocking stuffers, I am finished!

I spent half the day baking. Well, more like pre-baking. I never actually turned on the oven. I made pie shells and tart shells and put them in the freezer to later fill and bake. Pies are so easy once the shells are already done and I prefer to make them myself. I found an easy basic recipe early in our marriage and I've always stuck to it.

Basic Pie Crust (single crust)
1 1/4 cups flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup Crisco shortening
3 to 4 TBSP cold water

In a mixing bowl stir together flour and salt. Cut in shortening till pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle 3 TBSP water over mixture, gently tossing with a fork. Add one more TBSP of water if needed. Mixture needs to all be moistened. Form dough into a ball.

On a lightly floured surface flatten dough with hands. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle. Easy pastry into a 9-inch pie plate. (Do not stretch.)

Trim pastry to 1/2 inch beyond edge of pie plate. Fold under extra pastry and flute edge. Prick bottom and sides with tines of a fork. Bake in a 450 oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden.

For double-crust pastry prepare as above, except use 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 2/3 cut shortening and 6-7 TBSP cold water. Divide dough in half.

My mom taught me to roll out my pastry on a clean tea towel. After you're done you just shake the loose flour into the garbage and throw the towel into the laundry. Makes for a quick clean up.

I'll be making blueberry and pumpkin pies for Christmas and coconut cream for Christmas Eve. These are all of my husband's favourites. The sure way to a man's heart is through his stomach!

My mom will make raspberry pie. It's her specialty and she's famous for it.

I used miniature tart tins for the tart shells. Mini tarts are great to put out with cookies and squares and so easy to fill. My daughter Sarah loves jam tarts - fill your unbaked tart shell with raspberry jam and bake. When I make butter tarts I always have to fill at least one shell with jam to keep her happy.

What are your favourite desserts for Christmas?

12 Days Of Christmas

2008-12-18T12:31:00.002-05:00

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.

It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church.

Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality, which the children could remember.

1. The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

2. Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

3. Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

4. The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

5. The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

6. The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

7. Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--prophesy, serving, teaching, exhortation, contribution, leadership, and mercy.

8. The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

9. Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

10. The ten lords a-leaping were the Ten Commandments.

11. The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

12. The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

Merry Christmas from Lowes!!!!!!

2008-12-14T17:26:00.007-05:00

I am very impressed!!

Yesterday a new superstore opened in our little city. Lowes has just moved in!

Considering they're not attached to the mall and don't sell clothing (that I'm aware of) I did not rush on over for their Grand Opening. I'm sure that I will get there eventually since my husband is a big Jimmie Johnson fan and Lowes is Jimmie's sponsor.

Tonight, around 5:30pm, we had a knock on our door. A representative from Lowes, wearing a Santa hat, handed us a poinsettia plant and said "MERRY CHRISTMAS from Lowes!"

Lowes has certainly won me over. They have taken the time to connect with me personally.

I hope that their marketing manager gets a big bonus this year!

Christmas Fun

2008-12-14T17:16:00.003-05:00

Sharing Passwords

2008-12-11T19:19:00.006-05:00

Young couples in love are throwing privacy out the window.

They are showing their commitment to their loved one by sharing their passwords.

Passwords to their Facebook accounts, their MSN and their email. What are they thinking?!?!

They allow their boyfriend/girlfriend to access all of their private messages. Anytime they like.

This act of complete openness to what would be considered normal privacy concerns me.

Girls have gone from wearing their boyfriend's jacket as a sign of being spoken for to allowing them access to their private conversations.

Sure, email conversations could easily be forwarded anyhow. All email senders need to keep in mind that once an email is sent, it could then be forwarded to anyone.

However, allowing a boyfriend or girlfriend to know a password could be likened to allowing them to have control over you.

Couples in a marriage relationship will most likely find it safe to share password information. But, Girlfriends or Boyfriends are not wives or husbands.

Sharing a password to show a promise of commitment needs to be given thoughtful consideration. Confidentiality needs to be valued.

Why are we becoming so careless?

Relationship security cannot be exchanged for internet security.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-10T01:00:00.000-05:00

Another Momentous Occasion

2008-12-09T17:02:00.003-05:00

Today marks another key moment in our household.

My son passed his driving test today!

We woke up this morning to lots of snow. And streets that had not been plowed. It was very slippery and certainly not the best day to have your driving test. Especially when it's the first appointment. We wondered if the licensing bureau may even cancel it.

But they didn't.

And he passed! My son can now legally drive without me... or my husband... or any other caring adult, for that matter, along with him.

He is so excited! He could not remove the grin from his face.

He drove to work tonight alone. He took his sisters car. She was not too happy. Oh well.

Another stage of independence well earned. And another chauffeur...or errand runner.

The Star

2008-12-09T02:00:00.001-05:00

Lysa TerKeurst is doing a Giveaway!!

2008-12-08T18:23:00.003-05:00

Visit Lisa's site and check out her great Giveaway here!

And the winner is...

2008-12-05T17:37:00.004-05:00

I have chosen a winner for the book The Paper Bag Christmas. I used Random.org to choose the recipient.

And the winner is......

Maureen from Mona's World.

Congratulations Maureen! I know you are going to enjoy this book.

My Son's Birthday

2008-12-04T02:00:00.005-05:00

My son, Jonathan, turns 17 today!

His name means gift of God. And that's how I like to think of him. My son is a very good friend - just as Jonathan was to King David (before he was king).

My son is lots of fun and brings a lot of entertainment to our home. He makes me laugh until I cry and my stomach hurts. He says I'm an easy audience - maybe so, but he's still very funny.

Jonathan is a very generous and giving young man. He enjoys giving nice gifts.

He's also a hard worker - he's recently been promoted to Team Leader at his workplace.

Jonathan working while on a missions trip in NYC.

My son is a huge sports fan. He has collected shirts and memorabilia for all of his favorite teams. And he makes sure that he as a favorite team in each sport category.

Jonathan at a Nascar race.

I work in the office of Jonathan's high school, so I am blessed to 'go to school' each day with my son. He'll be graduating this year, so I know I'll miss this time that I am with him right now.

I am very thankful to have such a kind, thoughtful, funny, crazy, smart, generous son.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JONATHAN!!

The Paper Bag Christmas Book Review & GIVEAWAY!

2008-12-02T01:00:00.004-05:00

The Paper Bag Christmas by Keith Alan Milne
Hardcover: 150 pages
Publisher: Hachette Book Group 208
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1-59995-073-1
ISBN-13: 978-1-59995-073-0

From the Inside Cover:

When Molar Allan and his older brother, Aaron, fill out their Christmas wish lists front and back, the Santa at the mall informs the boys they won't be getting anything they asked for. Instead, he says, they will receive everything they never wanted. This isn't your garden-variety Santa, he's Dr. Chris Ringle, a pediatric oncologist, and he enlists the brothers as Santa's elves at the children's ward for the holidays.

Each boy is charged with a very special assignment. Aaron will befriend Madhu, a fast-talking boy on an organ transplant list who, though not Christian, has an insatiable curiosity and wants to learn all about the holiday. Madhu is determined to be a wise man in the hospital pageant, despite the objections to his interpretation of the role.

Molar's task is considerably harder, as he attempts to help a lonely little girl named Katrina. Katrina's surgery has left her scarred, and she has shut herself away from everyone. But it is through her that the true spirit of Christmas will touch the lives of all those around her in a way none of them would have ever foreseen.

Hachette Book Group emailed me and asked me if I would like to receive a free book and if I would kindly review it for them on my blog.

I said "YES".

When I came home from my cruise, amongst all of our mail, my new book was waiting for me.

I excitedly ripped opened the envelope and as soon as I had it in my hands I couldn't wait to grab some time to start it. The next day, the day after we came home, I read it. The whole book. I couldn't put it down.

This book is incredible and it will make a wonderful addition to your Christmas treasuries. It will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story for myself, but I also knew that my 13 year old daughter would love it too. I recommended it to her and she read it too. She wants you to know that along with me she gives it a 'two thumbs up'.

My daughter, like myself, could not put down this book until she was finished.

Kevin Milne is a very talented author. He writes fiction in a way that makes you want to believe that it's a true story.

The Paper Bag Christmas is an inspirational story that will pull on your heart strings. It's a story of children and friendship and it moved me to tears.

You may read an excerpt from Chapter One here, but I'm sure you won't want to stop there.

I have some great news for you!!! I want to share this book with you. I am going to give one of you a chance to win. All you have to do is leave me a comment. You have until Friday December 5 at 5:00pm to enter.

And..you have more chances to win. Visit the author's blog. He is giving away 5 copies, just in time for Christmas!

Good Luck!! I know you will enjoy The Paper Bag Christmas as much as I have.

An article by the author is available at for you here.

Hachette Book Group USA has a reading group guide available for The Paper Bag Christmas, as well, here.

The Ultimate Gift

2008-12-01T17:19:00.004-05:00

Last night, to kick of the Christmas holiday season, we showed the movie The Ultimate Gift at church.

We're always looking for movies that our whole family can enjoy together and The Ultimate Gift is a great movie that you can watch together.

This movie stars Abigail Breslin - your children will recognize her and the movie also stars James Garner - one of my favorite actors.

When his wealthy grandfather dies, trust fund baby Jason Stevens anticipates a big inheritance. Instead, his grandfather has devised a crash course on life with twelve tasks – or “gifts” – designed to challenge Jason in improbable ways, sending him on a journey of self-discovery and forcing him to determine what is most important in life: money or happiness.

This movie has taken on a life of it's own. Be sure and visit the web site to read more about the movement that has started as a result.

The Ultimate Gift

God Bless,

Anniversary Cruise Pics

2008-11-29T21:15:00.027-05:00

Hollywood Beach. We stayed at a hotel here the night before we left.

Me and Jen getting ready to order dessert at the Cheesecake
Factory in Miami. This was taken the night before we boarded our ship.

Getting ready for our boat drill.

Our first night at supper.

Atlantis Hotel on Paradise Island
Coming into our first port, Nassau Bahamas, at 7am.

Our ship is in the background.

Mark & I at the Atlantis Hotel.

Foyer at Atlantis Hotel

Looking down from foyer. In the background of this picture is the aquarium.

Sunset. Taken from our balcony.

Mark & I at our first formal evening.

Jen & I on the Lido deck on formal night.

Mark & I - very relaxed.

Our rooms were cleaned and towels replaced twice a day.
After supper our beds were turned down and mints were
left for us along with a new 'towel animal' each night.

We took a gondola ride and captured this picture of St. Thomas at night.

The catamaran we went on in St. Maarten.

Mark snorkeling.

St. Maarten

Fruit & dessert display at late night buffet.

Mark & I on our second formal night.

Relaxing card game in one of our favorite rooms on the ship.

Dance lessons on our last night. Cha cha cha.

Final morning arriving back in Miami port.

Our Anniversary Cruise

2008-11-24T19:55:00.004-05:00

Mark & I at the top of a mountain in St. Thomas overlooking the port where our ship was docked.

We are home now. Our cruise was wonderful!! It was truly like a second honeymoon.

We were treated like royalty and loved it! We came home fully relaxed and spoiled.

We traveled with our friends Mark & Jenny. Being with our friends on our trip was the icing on the cake!

We've realized how important it is to set aside time to get away, completely relax and get to know each other all over again.

Jesus You're My Best Friend!

2008-11-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Valor

2008-11-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is the only Valor I'm thinking of right now.

Can you see me???

I'll have lots of pictures and stories when I get back.

Time To Escape

2008-11-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

Too bad for Maxine. I'm not here. I'm in Miami right now getting ready to board my cruise ship!!!! See you in a week.

I Remember It Well

2008-11-14T00:00:00.004-05:00

27 years ago today Mark & I went on our first date!

We were in high school. He was 14 (almost 15) and I was 16.

We went to a hockey game with another couple. (I don't remember the game at all.)

Afterwards we went to the other boy's house. (I don't remember many details of that part either.)

The next day was Sunday. I got to see him at church.

After church, the other couple, along with Mark & I, went to watch the Santa Claus Parade. (I don't remember anything about the parade.)

After the parade Mark had to go to his grandparents' home for a family dinner. Mark gave us directions and we drove him there. Later I would realize that we took the long way to their house.

I got out of the car to say goodbye to him before we left him at his grandparents'.

While standing in the driveway, on a cold Sunday afternoon, my husband kissed me, for the very first time.

I remember that kiss. I remember it very well.

Happy Anniversary of our first date!

We leave tomorrow morning for Miami and on Sunday will set sail on a cruise to celebrate 20 years of marriage.

I love my husband more today than I could have dreamed possible.

P.S.
Our home will be occupied while we are away by Mark's parents, 4 teenagers and one dog.

Remembrance Day November 11

2008-11-11T19:41:00.000-05:00

Baby Tender Love

2008-11-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Do you have a childhood memory of a favorite toy?

One of my favorite toys was my Baby Tender Love. I searched on the internet and found a picture. Instantly, memories came rushing back of how special this doll was to me.

Baby Tender Love

I had two older cousins who each had one of these dolls and I wanted one as well. Very badly. My mom had a hard time justifying the $10 cost. I even remember looking at it with my mom in the toy department of our Sears store. I was so happy when she finally gave in and I became the very proud 'mommy' to my own Baby Tender Love. I have great memories of playing with her.

My sister and I also shared the Velvet, Crissy and Cinnamon dolls. These dolls had hair that you could make longer and shorter.

Crissy doll

And I can't forget Mrs. Beasley. If you remember the television show Family Affair, then you'll remember Mrs. Beasley.
My other favorites were my Barbies and my Easy Bake Oven.

What were your favorite childhood toys?

I Asked Him This Time

2008-11-08T20:13:00.006-05:00

Tonight, I asked him first.

I knew he'd say yes.

He most always suggests it first. It's on his mind more often than mine. Not that I don't like to do it too. I do. I really enjoy it.

Often, it's just what I need, especially at the end of the day. It relaxes me.

Such a great distraction from any of my worries. I don't know why I don't suggest it more often.

It's such a great way for the two of us to reconnect with each other.

I think that my husband doesn't like that he's always the one to suggest it first. But, not tonight!

Tonight, I suggested that we soak in the hot tub before he did. And it was wonderful!

Decorating Has Started...A Little

2008-11-07T22:47:00.004-05:00

It was beautiful out today. I mean it! Really, really nice.

Yesterday, it was so warm that I was watching the high school football game with short sleeves on. And I still felt warm!

It's November. And it's normally not that warm here in November. Usually gloves and scarves along with a wool coat are already a necessity.

My ingenious husband put up the Christmas lights today. What better time to accomplish such a task than on a beautiful, warm, sunny day.

Because....after all we're only 47 days until Christmas!

I got a new little decoration today. Santa's Bag Countdown Calendar from Hallmark. It has found a home on the fireplace mantle where it sits proudly as the first decoration to be on display in 2008.

Honor

2008-11-04T21:54:00.005-05:00

We can expect blessings from giving respect and showing honor.

We need to honor civil authority whether or not we agree with them; knowing that God ordains authority.

No matter the outcome. Be reassured; God ordains authority.

I Need To Read

2008-11-03T22:40:00.001-05:00

I love to read.

I often have a book nearby, ready for me to open at any time.

Usually, I'm devouring non-fiction books. I've got a collection from a variety of authors. Mostly Christian. I'll read them along with my highlighter and often reference back to all the nuggets that stood out to me.

Right now, though, I'm craving fiction. This doesn't happen too often.

But for now, that's all that will do.

Perhaps it's because I have new a fiction novel waiting for me.

Calling me. But, I'm holding off. This book is being saved. Saved for a special time.

This book will be read as I relax on a lounger. In the sunny south. Sitting next to a pool. On a deck. A deck that is located on our.....cruise ship!!!

I'm getting ready and I'm very excited.

A Menu to Remember

2008-11-02T08:45:00.005-05:00

Mark, Brittany and I went to a wedding last night. The bride is Mark's cousin and the groom is a handsome Chinese man.

It's very interesting to learn about different cultures and to be exposed to things that are new to us.

I brought home the dinner menu so that I could share it with you!! It was a ten-course meal, including dessert.

Sparkling Succulent Suckling Pig
Pieces with Jelly Fish

Shrimps Duo:
Jumbo Shrimps Sauteed with
Vegetables &
Coconut Shrimp with Broccoli

Supreme Sharks Fin Soup with
Abalone, Bamboo Pith and Chicken
Juliennes

Bacon-wrapped Filet Mignon with
Fig & Red Wine Reduction & Baby
Bok Choy

Crispy Chicken with Ginger Scallion
Sauce

Filets of Grouper steamed with
Chinese Mushrooms & Chinese Ham

Wok Baked Lobster in Supreme
Sauce

Conpoy & Pea Sprouts

Shrimp Rainbow Fried Rice in Lotus
Leaf Packet & Efu Noodle with
Abolone Essence

~

I can honestly say that I did not try all of it. And thankfully there were some children at our table that didn't want all of their food - they shared their pasta & ice cream!

My daughter, however, tried most of it and she made $26 dollars off of her uncle for being brave enough to eat some of the foods.

Shark Fin Soup

November

2008-11-01T12:54:00.005-04:00

This morning I changed the calendar. And it is the first day of the month. Accomplishment!
Last month I short-changed my family. I only gave them three weeks to enjoy the October picture.

Tonight I will change the clock. Back. One full hour. One full hour of extra sleep. I am elated.

Candy Night

2008-10-31T19:00:00.009-04:00

Brittany's pumpkin

When I was growing up I enjoyed Halloween. I lived in a small village and knew the families of each home that I 'trick-or-treated' at. We walked the street and knew each of the kids that we passed along the way.

When we went to a house, we didn't just stop on the porch, we went inside for a visit.

One house of a friend made homemade popcorn balls for the neighbourhood kids. An older couple that I called Grandma & Grandpa (not knowing that they really weren't ) would let you come in and choose which candies you wanted. Of course, I didn't turn any down.

My actual Grandparents lived next door and when we stopped at their house we would get a drink of apple cider. Mmmm.

I enjoyed taking my own children out beginning when they were babies. We would go to visit grandparents and friends homes and show off their costumes.

My youngest is now thirteen. She loves dressing up!! Tonight she used some of her dad's supplies and has gone out as a 'Mad Scientist'.

Mark took Brittany out tonight. I stayed at home to pass out treats.

Their first stop is my Mom & Dad's. My parents live just a couple of streets away. There is a great house on their street that gives out popcorn each year and my kids look forward to stopping there. This home is always decorated and the homeowners dress up too. The nice thing is that they stand out in the driveway to greet their visitors. They have a popcorn machine and give out bags of warm popcorn. And they give it to the parents too!!!

This year there is no popcorn. Apparently their decorations were vandalized earlier in the week and this caused them to choose not to participate in the manner that has become a custom for them.

This makes me sad.

At my house tonight, I've had fun giving out my treats. Complimenting each visitor on their costume. Chatting with them and having my daughter ask 'Who was that?' because she assumed that my friendliness meant that I knew them. The struggle...not to give all the treats away before the night has barely begun.

Tonight was pizza for supper (my fav), trick-or-treating by dad & daughter, answering the doorbell, blessing my visitors with lots of candy, and post - trick-or-treating is eating lots of candy while watching movies with my girls. Fun.

Brittany being silly with Sarah before she headed out.

HALLOWEEN

2008-10-31T00:00:00.002-04:00

Text and Drive

2008-10-29T19:22:00.011-04:00

News Headline:

Ontario Government Proposes Ban On
Hand-Held Devices While Driving

I do this. When my daughter got her license, I told her
not to do this.(Although I know she does it anyhow.)
But I do this. I didn't think that I would, but I do.

More often than I realized. More often than I should.
I sometimes text while driving.

I started out by only texting while sitting at a red
light,but then continued, just to finish my
message so I could send it.

I know it's bad. I know it's dangerous. I know.
I really do.

The news headline has created lots of conversation
at work. I actually hadn't realized how much I was
doing it. The work conversation caused me to take notice.

This legislation proposal is creating quite a stir.

Some areas already have a law in place that ban
texting while driving.

I agree that texting while driving is not safe at all.

Tell me what you think. But, please don't give me a
hard time about being honest with you.

Church Harvest Party

2008-10-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

My husband with one of the boys at our Harvest Party.

My daughter dressed up as 'laundry'.

For the past ten years we've been providing an end-of-October alternate family event at our church.

Children (and adults) are invited to dress up in costumes. We have a costume contest, popcorn machine, hot dogs & drinks, cotton candy machine, air-bounce and games. Each child takes home a bag full of an assortment of chocolate, candy & chips.

My husband and I are so blessed to have had so many volunteers to help make this yearly event a success. Tonight, as the evening was finishing, I was noticing how many people were helping. I was feeling especially thankful. It takes many people to help make an event a success. We are so appreciative of the families at our church. They enjoy attending an event and also being a part of helping make it run smoothly.

A few of our great volunteers!!

There were many, many other people that were a part of the event. These are just a few.