Chrysinda's Homestead

Zoo!

2011-12-29T19:02:00.000-06:00

We met up with some dear friends and had a great day, enjoying the lovely weather at the Oklahoma City Zoo! My Aunt gave us some free passes- whoo-hoo! It was a lovely time.

Look! There's an Alycia Panda in the bamboo!

The kids really liked this tiger cub. Both boys took turns taking pictures.

Beautiful leopard, (I think)

Conquering the zoo! RRaawwwrr!

This baby elephant was soooooooo cute!

I love elephant societies. They really are grand creatures.

A Scissortail Flycatcher (Oklahoma State Bird)

A Bald Eagle

A Red Wolf- amazing how well he blends in with the background!

Native Wild Beasties

2011-12-05T12:20:00.000-06:00

And now, for something completely different:

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-06:00

A Tea With the Queen!

Sammy and I had a fabulous girls' day!

We shopped,

had Starbucks,

went to a mall

and were treated like royalty at Macy's,

got FREE make-up,

shopped some more,

went to Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park's Tea With the Queen,

shopped some more,

came home and made curry! Fun, fun!

We started a bit later than I was hoping, so I was afraid we wouldn't get to do all the neat girlie stuff I had planned, but after a stop at Starbucks for a very yummy Peppermint Mocha for me and Caramel Brulee Latte for Sammy, we managed just fine.

We were able to find great cheap and FREE stuff, so we arrived feeling pampered and very successful to the tea.

When we arrived, Sammy was still in her regular clothes and we saw how others were dressed- modern clothes. She was the only one who wasn't in the cast which had period-esque garb, and I asked her if she wanted to change, or go in her regular clothes- she elected to change.

Whoo-hoo for a daughter who ha the self confidence to do her own thing!

Here she is, in her garb- borrowed from Grandma. Sewing- just another of my mother's many talents. (Sammy borrowed the hat from Alycia- now she's totally steampunked out! Sweet!)

"You may approach" said her Majesty.

Sammy got a lot of compliments from those attending on her dress, the queen in particular, admired her jewels.

It was a lovely setting. OSP, as usual, did a GREAT job!

We were seated with some um, older ladies

and they were hilarious!

If you ever want good service, sit with ladies who are just too old to care. So, so funny!

We even got this neat keep-sake! Of course, the memories we built today are the most precious.

2011-11-30T18:01:00.000-06:00

Afternoon field trip

The kids were looking forward to going back to the Cowboy museum for a field trip today, but it turns out it wasn't a free admission day, after all. :(
But, that's okay! Thanks to the Grandparents in California, we have a pass to the Science Museum!

“I was elated, ecstatic and extremely surprised that we were successful,”
Neil Armstrong

2011-11-27T09:16:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Trip- 3rd and final part

So, I mentioned that the dam-site is beautiful, didn't I? How's this for a view?

It rained over night and in the morning Joe and I went for a long exploration walk. Even though most of the trees we saw on our drive up were already bare for the winter, I was pleased to find the little valley area we were in still had the fall leaves!

SO Beautiful!

2011-11-27T09:12:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving trip part 2

I love camping. After the great time at my brother's, we went to a BEA-U-TIFUL campsite at Ft Gibson Lake Damsite.
My parents let us borrow their fabulous travel trailer and we stayed in style!

I just love camping and we don't do it very often (hmmm... that'll need to change) This time, the boys had a very special, much anticipated (like for months and months) time just with uncle, and James, Sammy and I went camping.
Did I mention I love camping?

Joe and I went for a walk right away. We found a great, dry creek bed area. The soil was so dark! I wish I could have gotten a better picture- seriously, it was like coffee grounds!

Joe loves the water. Well, usually- I think he was a bit surprised to find it was pretty cold.

See that? 3 hotdogs! This man has mad skills, folks!

My precious hubby and Camp Fire Master.

2011-11-27T09:09:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Feasting

We had a special vacation this year- we traveled to my brother's home in Okay, OK (Seriously- I can't make up this stuff!)

My brother cooked the Turkey in a roasting bag- it was very flavorful and juicy! AND it browned! We'll have to try this one at home sometime.

In this picture James is taking apart the turkey. It kind of makes it look like he cooked the whole bird, doesn't it? LOL! Next year, I'll have to get some pictures of the cook. :)

Unfortunately, I didn't manage to get good pictures of the group, but it was a really lovely dinner. There was my family, my brother, his Fiancee, Deborah and her mother, Nana Juju. Good times!

2011-11-27T09:06:00.000-06:00

Through the eyes of a child

Patrick's pictures of the neighbor's pond.

I just loved this. The neighbor has a nice little fish pond and Patrick asked if he could take pictures. This is what he came back with:

Now, I'm not showing these for their photographic merit, but rather so you can hear Patrick's description of the photos- There is the rock formation and the leaves and the waterfall.
(scroll back up through the pictures- is "waterfall" the first thing you thought of, too?)

Oh, to have such a positive outlook! Kids can teach us so much!

2011-11-17T08:34:00.000-06:00

My Idyllic Life

A cool, crisp fall morning, the sun just rising over the trees, and oh-such gorgeous fall color!
My children still tucked snugly into their beds,
masses of sewn-with-love-by-Grandma quilts keeping them warm-
this is my idyllic life.

Always stand out from the crowd.

Follow the voice of your master

Enjoy the provision

Recognize the wondrous works of your God

Enjoy this day! Ps 118:24 This is the day ADONAI has made, a day for us to rejoice and be glad.

2011-11-17T08:23:00.000-06:00

Field Trip Day!

Wow- So, I admit it- I live in Oklahoma and have never toured the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. There, I said it. We'll see if my spurs get taken away. Oh, but wait! We just went! Yee-haw! Giddy up, partner!

We were so impressed with what a quality museum this is! AND Wednesdays are FREE this month. (11/30/11: Update! We tried to go again today and found out the FREE Wednesdays ended on the 16th. I sure hope it was not an inconvenience to anyone else who may have tried to go.) Since that happens to be our favorite price, and since God has blessed us with James' improved health and great job, we're trying to make it a point to get out and do more field trips and the like with the kids and friends.

Growing up in Oklahoma, I admit I had a bit of disdain towards all things western-ish. I was so tired of hearing country songs spewing tales of some-wife-running-off-with-some-friend-and-even-taking-the-truck, that I lumped all things together and avoided places like the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Well, old age brings either death or wisdom, and I ain't dead, yet, (sorry, I get ta western-y thinking, and it just slips out..) so off we went!

This HUGE sculpture is the highlight of the main entrance atrium. It is titled, "The End of the Trail"

Pat missed the first group picture, but I caught up with him on the back side of the sculpture.

There is a fabulous children's building. Watch out for the wildlife!

I was so impressed with this work. The attention to detail shown here gives you just a glimpse of the quality represented throughout the museum.

The less than perfect facial features makes the cowboy look more realistic.

The sweat-soaked pants.

Even the worn boot and grubby hands

notice the cuffs and the back of his britches, too? Such detail!

This photo I call, "CHILDHOOD". It really shows Pat's natural exuberance!

After the museum, Sammy and Daniel went to Alycia's to play and Pat and I took advantage of our Mommy-Pat time with a rare trip to a restaurant. WA-HA-HA! I love their specials!

Sabbath Day FUN!

2011-11-05T23:37:00.003-05:00

The boys, JoJo and I checked out a local lake today- I'm fairly embarrassed to admit we lived here for a couple of years before I even knew about it, and that it took me another six months to go there, but now that we have, we just love it!

Daniel helping Pat get set up

The hand-off

And now we're fishin'!

"Jo-Jo" I said. "What?" said he.

"YOU took my picture! Now, I plot my revenge!

I loved the scenery. And spending time with my boys!

And now, THE LARCH. (Comment if you get this reference!)

Can you see the top of his fishing pole? "A big fish bent it!"

I really love this picture- it's just Pat, walking and thinking- but in moments like these, I get glimpses of him growing up- and who he is becoming

My precious boy

THE LARCH

3 of my favorite guys

Happiness!

Such handsome boys!

See Pat thinking? "Sand!"

See? I told you so!

THE LARCH

2011-11-05T12:30:00.000-05:00

Chemistry Day at the Oklahoma Science Museum!

What an awesome day we had at the Oklahoma Science Museum!
James' Folks bought us museum passes for the Oklahoma Museum Network!
This is like having a family membership to 5 different Oklahoma Museums for a whole year!
Yes, I AM excited!
We had a great day! A dear friend and her two fabulous kids joined us and we got to do so many science-y things! There were stations set up throughout the museum, with chemistry experiments! I think those involving fire and liquid nitrogen were the boys' favorite. They had a great time with the regular displays, too!

The Gravitron- this is Pat's favorite thing- he hadn't been to the Science Museum for a l-o-n-g time, but he remembered this, and was talking about it in the car when we were on our way to the museum.

It looks like Daniel likes it, too!

Pat loved explaining to anyone who came by what was happening, which things made other things do something, etc. He's especially cute with little kids.

Fireman Pat!

Whee!

Bubbles are fun! AND a great science lesson!

Liquid Crystal

Liquid Crystals- are there more than 3 stages of matter?

Pat in the HUGE multi-story playground treehouse!

Pat and another visitor at the ball launcher

A new friend and Daniel working the ball return pulley

Daniel on a huge Lever- a teeter totter!

Um, he's a bit stuck... (guess who is on the other end.)

Dan and Pat at the end of the Archimedes Screw Slide!

Whew, we're dizzy!

Really dizzy!

Really, really dizzy!

What a great time! I'm so grateful to God for being able to stay at home with the children He has entrusted me with!

Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa in California, for the museum passes!

2011-11-05T11:53:00.000-05:00

Work- Wow!
James' work took us Frontier City!!!
They provided for ALL our wants! Parking, admission, dinner- WOW!!!!
James wasn't feeling well, but the kids and I were able to go and we brought a family friend.
Though we missed Daddy being there, we had SUCH AN AMAZING TIME!!!
We were so impressed with James' work for providing this for all the employees AND their families!
There was even a very nice buffet style dinner, a private company picnic area an drinks included! WOW!

Patrick on "Quick Draw"

Get 'em, Pat!

Daniel

The kids on "Mystery River Log Flume"

Splashdown!

Smiles all around!

Pat had fun!

Dan did, too!

Chris and Daniel

My Pat

I like this pic

I like this one, too

This was mommy's favorite ride!

My sweet Pat. He and I rode the carousel 4 times!

That was AWESOME!! We stayed until the park closed- now, time to go home and thank Daddy for our great day!

2011-11-01T11:55:00.000-05:00

Meet Jo-Jo!

After the passing of Sprite, (Sad story, very sad- in my best Columbo voice), James said I needed a baby (and he was right) and we went to Midnight Woofness (no kidding!) at Petsmart. There were so many different agencies, rescue groups, etc. there with great pets to place in new homes. Jo-jo came from Red Dirt Boxer Rescue and we cannot recommend them highly enough. Seriously- they are a real quality organization and these people really, really care for and about the dogs.
He has turned out to be very smart, picked up on his training super-quickly (he came potty trained, but that's about it) and goes with me everywhere. I just love my special buddy!

After we got him,

he'd have days where he'd throw up at night

and be lethargic and not eat the next day.

He also had

two tumors.

Of course, I was worried it was cancer.

I contacted Red Dirt Boxer Rescue, and they said to make an appointment with their vet,
which just happened to be our vet, as well!

Well, it was cancer, and the rescue paid for his surgery- WOW! What an awesome organization!

Now, Jo-jo is feeling great! I'm so glad to have such a happy, loving boy!

2011-10-04T22:57:00.000-05:00

Bedroom blessings!

Dig Pat's dynamite, groovy pad!
My radical, gnarly Aunt gave us a choice daybed (with custom covers, might I add), an area carpet and this swell table, made by my Uncle, when he was in high school shop class, 'cuz he wasn't T.C.F.S.!
Isn't Pat's room far-out, man?
Okay, I'm making all the strange remarks because my daughter said Pat's room looked "Retro".
That must be modern speak for really, really neat!
Hey, I'd live in there!

Pat loves his groovy new room!

Complete with an awesome table- perfect for his computer schoolwork!

Love it!!

2011-10-04T22:21:00.000-05:00

Waiting....

Waiting... for the kids to get ready
... for the traffic to go
... for the red light
... for the doctor to see us
...for seat belts to buckle
... through more traffic
... for shoes to be tied
... for such is the substance of some days.
These pics I took between appointments when we were... yep, you guessed it- waiting.
But we were together and close and happy.
Waiting... is not so bad when you're with the ones you love.

...

2011-09-26T17:29:00.000-05:00

Field trip to the State Fair!

Where else can you see Chocolate Covered Bacon, and Pork Parfaits? Well, the Oklahoma State Fair, of course! We didn't partake of any of the, um, delicious? offerings, but we did have a fun, free time at the fair, thanks to a marvelous mom who coordinated an educational field trip for our homeschooling group.

Before the fair- Patrick introducing himself to some new friends

And a game of tag! Looks like Pat is it!

A seriously large horse

and his fuzzy feet.

This is Captain! Of Express Clydesdales!

Ok- really- where else are you going to see a goat getting blow-dried?

Daniel and his friend

Whew! We finally made it back to the car!

2011-09-26T08:08:00.000-05:00

Wildlife Expo, day 2
Blessed with perfect weather, we forayed into the deep unknowns of the wilderness, again. Overly dramatic, much? Maybe. Let's try it this way: So, um, we went to the Wildlife Expo again! We were a bit short on time, so we visited the vendors, had some kitchen knives professionally sharpened by John Combes Custom Knives (quality work!) Daniel checked out an awesome crossbow by The Lodge at Rawhide Creek, went kayaking again, went video shooting again, and saw some prey birds, including a bald eagle. - Speaking of which, Pat saw one over the house just the day before! (Watch out, chickens!)

Daniel with the Excalibur Recurve Crossbow. The Lodge at Rawhide Creek's owner, Rickey Squires in background.

He thought the Excalibur's scope was great!

Patrick is getting really, really good at kayaking!

This time, he got an open-top style kayak. He loves it!

Looking good!

Thank you, OKC Kayak!

2011-09-24T16:29:00.000-05:00

Wildlife Expo, Day 1

Each year we've tried to go to the Wildlife Expo. It is a wonderful event (and it's FREE!).

Today, we tried to focus on the inside. The biggest, most anticipated activity was Kayaking! I am so impressed with the folks from http://www.okckayak.com/ each year! They and the Wildlife Department folks are so patient, kind and seem really eager to help everyone have a great, safe time.

We also had some venison bacon and bison chili- good stuff!

Then, Daniel and Alycia shot virtual game, which Daniel wants to get for home. hmmm, looks like that boy needs to go hunting soon!

I hope you enjoy the pics! (Taken with my awesome birthday present!)

Sammy, getting ready to go!

HOORAH!

Daniel is having a blast!

Patrick looks like an "old pro".

A sweet picture of both the girls- a real accomplishment, since they both like to be so camera-shy

Go Pat, Go!

Love this pic!

Time to get out- Pat says "That was fun; Thanks!"

Look at that focus!

Gasp! I killed Bambi! (Just kidding, Alycia!)

2011-09-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Birthday Flowers!

What a special treat from my dear hubby!

2011-09-21T18:48:00.000-05:00

My amazingly awesome mom gave me a camera for my birthday!!!! I looked at the manual and was learning how to use it- on very photogenic subjects...Our Furbabies!

Sprite

Heinrich and Atamo

Heiney again

Tom again

Lake Arcadia Field Trip!

2011-09-20T17:26:00.000-05:00

Lake Arcadia Field Trip!

Daniel, and his discovery

An icky, sticky beach ball, filled with black slimy lake ooze! (Did someone say, "Lunch"?)

Today we went out to Lake Arcadia on a homeschool group outing- What a delightful time! I am so blessed by the people God has placed in my life. I had such a lovely, refreshing time and the boys did, too. We played in the park then explored the beach areas- and, leave it up to boys to find the yuckiest thing around... and their mom to get pics.

On a side-note, I am so grateful for people who organize things. The homeschooling communities I have the privilege of being involved with are awesome, nearly everyone, at one time or another, pitches in and people are really interested in investing in others. Dear Ones, Let me assure you, the time you invest in others is not wasted!

Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

UCO's Asian Fest

2011-09-12T10:02:00.000-05:00

The kids and I had a great time at UCO's Asian Fest! We arrived a bit later than I would have liked, but I still got a great opportunity to take some pictures of the kids and we saw the dragon dancers! Enjoy!

Our boys

All our kids- Sammy, Pat and Dan

I love this pic!

The Dragon Dancers!

2011-09-12T09:48:00.000-05:00

Yippee! My mother kindly loaned us her camera so you get to see what fun the boys and I had!
These are pics from SEPTEMBERFEST, held at the Oklahoma Governor's Mansion.

Daniel During the laser tag- set up, courtesy of Mobile Laser Forces

Some good pictures of Pat

I Love this guy!

He's outgoing too!

And contemplative

But most of all...

Sweet... and FUN!

LOTS...

...of...

FUN!

Ooh-rah!

Jim the horse. Rides courtesy of Love is Carriages. His person, Steve, was very nice too!

The boys on the carriage ride, looking ahead to next year, no doubt! :D

The hay maze- of interminably... For Pat, at least.
You can just see the top of his head in the middle of this pic.

Ah! There he is! Can it be he has nearly found his way out?

YEA! He did it!!

Thanks for checking out the blog and sharing in our fun!

2011-07-28T08:35:00.002-05:00

Our Homestead's Favorite recipes; a work in progress

Breakfast Bread Pudding:

1/2 loaf French bread
6 eggs
2/3 c sugar
2 teaspoon cinnamon
dash salt
1/4 t ground cloves
3 c milk
1/4 c raisins
1/4 c dates
4T brown sugar

Butter or spray baking pan, 13 x 9x 2". Into pan, tear bread into 1- to 1.5" pieces.
Beat remaining ingredients and pour over bread.
Cover; refrigerate at least 8 hours for best results (Can be baked immediately, if you like)

Heat oven to 325. Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until crust is golden brown. serve warm, especially good with a little evaporated milk poured on individual portions.

Makes 8-10 servings

Jennifer Sikora's Fried Apples
Chop up your apples then in a skillet melt 1/4 cup of butter. Once melted, add your apples and then add 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/8 tsp of nutmeg. Allow it to cook on the stove until apples have gotten soft.
2 minutes ago · Like

Homemade Sausage:
This is a really great recipe- it is quite easy to make in bulk, and have healthy sausage on-hand and ready to cook. I like to form mine, and freeze them in patty form so they're ready-to cook, straight from the freezer.
2 teaspoons dried sage
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Slap-Ya-Mamma
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
1.5 tablespoon brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 pinch ground cloves
1 Lb Ground Turkey
1 LB Ground Venison
Oat-y Waffles
Can be cooked ahead and frozen, for quick breakfasts later
3 eggs
3 cups ground oatmeal
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil (can substitute applesauce, if concerned with fat intake)
2 tablespoon white sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Preheat waffle iron. Beat eggs until fluffy. Beat in milk, vegetable oil, sugar, baking powder, salt and vanilla, then ground oats. For best texture, if you use applesauce let the mix sit for 20 minutes, then mix briefly before cooking.
Spray preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Pour mix onto hot waffle iron. Cook until golden brown.
Great served with Honey Butter
1 stick of softened butter
1/3 cup of powdered sugar
1/3 to1/2 cup of local clover honey
Whip it in the food processor for a few seconds- easy and very yummy!

Simple Whole- Wheat Bread
adapted from http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Simple-Whole-Wheat-Bread/Detail.aspx
3 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast (2.5 teaspoons)
1/3 cup honey
5 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon salt
3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
2 tablespoons butter, melted
In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1/3 cup honey. Let proof for 15 minutes. Add 5 cups all purpose flour, and stir to combine. Let set for 30 minutes, or until big and bubbly.
Mix in 3 tablespoons melted butter, 1/3 cup honey, and salt. Stir in 2 cups whole wheat flour. Flour a flat surface and knead with whole wheat flour until not real sticky - just pulling away from the counter, but still sticky to touch. This may take an additional 2 to 4 cups of whole wheat flour. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface of the dough. Cover with a dishtowel. Let rise in a warm place until doubled.
Punch down, and divide into 3 loaves. Place in greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pans, and allow to rise until dough has topped the pans by one inch.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 30 minutes; do not overbake. Lightly brush the tops of loaves with 2 tablespoons melted butter or margarine when done to prevent crust from getting hard. Cool completely
Notes: I make this all in my Kitchen-aid mixer. No kneading on counter, etc. However, if you are unsure of what to look for in a dough, I'd suggest making it by hand as the directions above suggest the first time, then using the Kitchen-aid the next time. Also, I've forgotten to add the honey/ salt / butter in step 2 before and the bread turned out fine. This is good to know if you have to watch your salt/ calorie intake.

Also, this makes really great French Toast, which I like to make ahead and freeze for quick breakfasts.

Marla's Wheat Bread
Marla says, "Okay recipe is: Mine almost always turns out light & fluffy! It took a little while to find the right recipe :)"
5 cups warm water
2/3 cup oil
2/3 cup honey (I always add just a little bit more :)
2 Tbsp. Salt
2 Tbsp. SAF instant yeast
2 Tbsp. Vital Wheat Gluten
10-12 cups freshly milled wheat flour
In your mixing bowl, (I use a kitchen aid mixer - industrial strength), put water, 5 cups of wheat flour, oil, honey, yeast & glluten. Mix on low speed until combined. Then add approximately 5 more cups of flour & salt. Mix & continue to add flour 1/4 cup @ a time until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl (it will sometimes seem like you really have to add a lot more!). Then knead for another 4-5 minutes. Let the dough hook do the work :) the dough should feel soft not grainy (I still think it feel a "little" bit grainy...but that is what the recipe says). Form into loaves & place in GREASED pans (make sure you grease even the tops of the loaf pans....I use stainless steel LARGE loaf pans). Let rise until double in size (and I mean double or more.....even to the point of hanging over the edge slightly!) Bake @ 350dgrees for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. It is ALWAYS just 30 minutes for mine :)

French Bread
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Baguettes/Detail.aspx

I don't have a bread machine, so I use my stand mixer for this recipe- mix the water, sugar and yeast (I use regular, not "bread machine" yeast) then proof for 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes, if it is nice and foamy (showing your yeast is viable), then add the flour and the salt. Mix well (I use the dough hook) then proceed with steps 2-5. Enjoy!

To make Wheat French Bread, replace 1/2 cup of the flour with wheat flour. This is great in the Breakfast Bread Pudding, above.

Banana Sour Cream Bread
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Banana-Sour-Cream-Bread/Detail.aspx
You can substitute plain or vanilla yougurt for the sour cream and applesauce for 1/2 the butter, if desired. Oh! Also, Pure Maple Syrup works well to replace the vanilla, as I found out when I ran out once.

Easy Granola Bars

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Easy-Granola-Bars/Detail.aspx
Wow! Super quick and easy! Also a great recipe for kids' help! A super way to clean out the baking cabinet odds-n-ends, since it is such an adaptable recipe. These should freeze well, too.

Oh-My- Goodness-Good Baked Beans
1/2 pound ground venison
1 medium onion, chopped
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon Slap-Ya-Mama
6 slices of Jalapeños from jar, chopped
2 (16 ounce) cans vegetarian beans, undrained
1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans, undrained
In a large skillet, cook meat and onion until meat is done and onion is tender. Drain any fat. Combine all remaining ingredients; mix well.
At this point, the beans can be refrigerated and left as a pre- prepared dish.
When ready to eat, place in a greased 2-1/2-qt. casserole. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees F for 1 hour or until heated through. Or Microwave for about 15 minutes.
Excellent served with Cornbread. Even my carnivore husband enjoyed this as dinner! Makes 8 servings

Myers' Favorite Cornbread
Adapted from "The Good Cook: Breads" book
2 cups cornmeal
1 tsp. baking soda
3 eggs
2 cups sour cream (or plain yogurt, or buttermilk)
1/3 cup oil
1 tsp salt
10-12 jalapeño slices, from jar, chopped
1-2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Mix together eggs, buttermilk, sour cream and oil. Add the cornmeal. baking soda and salt. Stir in the jalepenos and all but 1/4 cup of the cheese.

Preheat oven to 450. Heat an oiled 10 inch cast iron skillet in the oven. Pour batter into the hot skillet; top with reserved grated cheese. Bake 15-30 minutes, until bread is set and slightly brown on top.

Makes one 10" loaf

Beef Bulgogi (Prep ahead of time and cooks quickly)
3 pounds beef (any steak/ roast cut), thinly sliced, cross-grain
1 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup white sugar
3/4 cup chopped green onion
1/3 cup minced garlic
1/3 cup sesame seeds (optional)
1/3 cup sesame oil
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 teaspoons sriracha chili sauce
2 onions, sliced from top to bottom

Place the beef in a shallow dish. Combine soy sauce, sugar, green onion, garlic, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Pour over beef. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

When ready to cook, pre-heat broiler in oven, remove meat/ onions from marinade and spread meat/ onions on large cookie sheet in a single layer. Cook 4-5" from heat until cooked and carmalized, about 7-8 minutes per side.

Serve with rice. Makes about 10 servings

1950s Cabbage
1 t salt
1 t sugar
2 T lemon juice
5 T melted butter
...1.5 T horseradish
1t paprika
5 cups cooked cabbage (I just used a full head and didn't measure)

Combine first 6 ingredients and add to hot cabbage. Recipe says this serves 6, but I think you can get 10-12 servings, as a side-dish.

From the kitchen of Vinita Eggers
An East Indian recipe for Cabbage

Ingredients

One head cabbage
1 Roma tomato
1 tbsp. of cooking oil
1 tsp. of cumin seeds, whole
1 tsp. of black mustard seeds, whole
¼ tsp. coriander powder
¼ tsp. turmeric powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne powder
Salt to taste
Juice of one lemon

1. Shred cabbage. Wash and drain. Chop tomato. Collect all ingredients before beginning the next step.

2. In a large pot, heat the oil on medium heat. Add the cumin and black mustard seeds and cover. The seeds should start making popping sounds in about a minute or two. Lower the heat to low to keep from burning the seeds.

3. After the popping sounds start to slow down, add the cabbage and the tomato. Add the coriander powder, the turmeric powder, the cayenne powder and salt. Mix well. Cover with lid and cook on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is crisp-tender.

4. While cabbage is cooking, juice the lemon. Remove the pot from the stove and uncover. Add the lemon juice to the cabbage, to your taste, and mix well. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Notes:
A. Curry powder can be substituted for the powdered spices. However, start out with a small amount, about ½ tsp. and taste. Add more, if you want it spicier.

B. The advantage of cooking the cabbage to crisp-tender is that when you reheat it, it doesn’t get all mushy.

C. Cabbage wrapped in a tortilla/roti/chapati makes a great snack the next day.

Aloo Phujia
(Spicy Indian Potatoes)
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Aloo-Phujia/Detail.aspx
James likes sour cream with this dish.
Aloo Phujia is a favorite dinner when served with Slap-Ya Coriander Chicken.

Easy Indian Butter Chicken
adapted from http://allrecipes.com/recipe/easy-indian-butter-chicken/detail.aspx

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup butter, divided
1 onion, minced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
3 cups evaporated milk
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon Slap-ya-mama
1 teaspoon garam masala

1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken
breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tablespoons EVOO
2 tablespoons garam masala

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven broiler. Combine chicken, EVOO, garam masala ans sprinkle with Slap-Ya-Mama. Cook chicken under broiler, turning once.
2. Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in onion and garlic, and cook slowly until the onion caramelizes to a dark brown, about 15 minutes. set onions aside.
3. Melt the remaining butter in the same skillet over medium-high heat along with the tomato sauce, evaporated milk, Slap-ya-mama, and garam masala. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low; cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then stir in caramelized onions. 4. Once done, add the chicken to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes before serving.

Excellent when served with Purple Thai Rice. http://www.food52.com/recipes/10469

Basic Dal Recipe
by Vinita Eggers

2 cups uncooked chana dal/split garabanzo beans/split chickpeas
6 cups water or chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 tsp. olive oil
pinch of asafoetida
1 tsp. cumin seeds
1 tsp. black mustard seeds
3 tsp. cumin powder
3 tsp. coriander powder
1 tsp. paprika powder
1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
1/4 tsp. ginger powder
1 tsp. garlic flakes
1 tsp. prepared mustard
Salt to taste
Juice of one lime
coriander leaves, julienned

Cook chana dal in water or broth using a pressure cooker. If you don't have a pressure cooker, use a large heavy bottom pot and cook the chana dal with 1/4 tsp. baking soda, until you can completely compress a dal between your thumb and forefinger.

Puree the cooked dal in a food processor and set aside.

In the pot, heat olive oil over medium high heat. When oil is hot, add asafoetida, cumin and mustard seeds. When seeds start to pop and release their fragrance, add the pureed dal.

Add the remaining ingredients except the lime juice and coriander leaves. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes to let the spices cook and the flavours blend. Add more water if dal is too thick. Let heat longer if dal is too thin.

Remove from heat, add the lime juice and julienned coriander leaves and serve.

Notes:
1) In India, the term "daal" is used for dehulled and split lentils, peas and beans. It is also used for the "soupy" preparation of these.
2) Your local Indian store will have a variety of dals available. I have used chana dal, split garabanzo beans, in this recipe but you can substitute any dal. Yellow split peas look similar to chana dal.
3) Be careful, adding a liquid to hot oil can make it spatter. Gently pour the pureed dal from one corner of the pot.
4) Chana dal is a recommended food for diabetics all over India.
5) http://www.mendosa.com/chanadal.html is a good resource if you want more information on chana dal.
6) I eat chana dal as a thick soup but traditionally it is served with cooked rice.

Fabulous, easy Indian flat bread! Chapati
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/indian-chapati-bread/detail.aspx

Sean's Amazing Pickled Okra
This is the reason I planted okra this year! Even if you think you don't like okra, you HAVE to try this!
by Sean Liberty
Recipe is easy. Because we can as the okra grows, most of the time I will can only 1 jar at a time. So you can multiply yours depending on how many you are going to pickle. Pint jars are great for @4" okra pods. I always fill the jar with the okra to plan ahead before I sanitize the jars so I don't have to mess with the hot jar for too long. For every Jar I use 2/3 cup white vinegar, 2/3 cup water, 1 Tbls salt. Start your canning water going (any pot that will cover the pint jar). When your canning water is about to start boiling bring the water/vinegar to a boil. Fill the sanitized jar with okra pods, 1 clove of garlic split, tsp pepper corns, and 1/2 of a hot pepper(any you like will do). If you substitute ground pepper, or red pepper flakes you will still get good flavor, you will just have murky fluid. Pour the hot water/vinegar over the okra to within 1/4 from the top. Remove the bubbles. Place lid on jar with ring and then lower into your canning pot water. Process for 15 min, turn off heat and let set in water for 5 min. Remove to a draft free place and do not disturb for 24 hours. Okra will be ready to eat in 14 days.

Sean's Smoked, Pickled Okra:
I just used the regualr canning recipe only I added smoked prapriika, garlic, cyan, and 2 tsps of brown sugar. I don't recall the quanties except the sugar. I love smoked praprika, so I probably used a lot. Most of it settled in the bottom, but still flavord the okra.

Slap-Ya Chicken
1 whole chicken, butterflied
lime juice
olive oil
Slap-ya-Mama

Heat broiler. Place 1/4 cup of olive oil in roasting pan. Place chicken in roasting pan and drizzle with lime juice and heavily with Slap-Ya-Mama seasoning. Flip chicken over, to oil the skin. Cook chicken on lowest oven rack, allowing at least 6-7 inches from the broiler. cook chicken until skin is somewhat blackened, then flip to cook the other side.

Works GREAT with turkey breast, too! Omit lime and add rosemary. NOM!!

Slap-Ya Seasoning
If you can't find Slap Ya Mama seasoning http://www.slapyamama.com/, a decent substitute can be made from this recipe: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cajun-Spice-Seasoning-Mix-in-a-Jar/Detail.aspx

Amazingly Easy Italian Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
cooking spray
4 (4 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken
breast halves
1/4 cup water
1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style
salad dressing mix
1 clove garlic, pressed

DIRECTIONS:
1. Spray the crock of a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts in crock. Combine Italian dressing mix, and water in a small bowl. Pour over chicken; sprinkle with garlic, cover, and cook on Low 5 hours.

Combine with Lettuce and your favorite salad fixins for an awesome salad (we like to use Ken's (brand) Italian Dressing) Complete your meal with a crusty french loaf and butter. Lemon water makes an excellent drink accompaniment for this meal.

This chicken can also be used in spaghetti sauce, in chicken alfredo, and more. It is a fabulous crock dish from this recipe: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/slow-cooker-italian-chicken-alfredo/detail.aspx

Chicken Corn Chowder Pat's Favorite
A souper-easy (sorry about the pun), quick recipe

1 Can (10 1/2 oz) condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 can whole kernel corn with liquid
1/2 t black pepper

Heat soup, milk, mayonnaise and corn, stirring often. May garnish with parsely, if desired.
Makes 4 servings.

THE (Tasty, Healthy, Easy) Bean and Cheese Tacos
1 Can of your favorite mexican beans (Chili, Kidney, Pinto), drained and rinsed
1/2 Cup chunky Salsa
1 Clove minced Garlic
5 tortillas
4 oz fat-free cream cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesean cheese
one small chopped onion
2 teaspoons dried parsely flakes

Preheat oven to 350. Combine all ingredients, except onions and tortillas and mash with fork or whip in cuisinart/ kitchen-aid. Add onions and mix.
Place tortillas on ungreased cookie sheet. Spread about 1/4 cup of mixture on 1/2 of each tortilla, to within 1/2 inch of the edge. Fold tortillas in half. Spray tops with cooking spray. Bake about 10 minutes or until tortilla begins to brown and filling is hot. For each serving, place 1 tortilla on plate and searve with 2 Tablespoons of salsa.

Ten-Minute Enchilada Sauce
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/ten-minute-enchilada-sauce/detail.aspx

FB Friends' Meatloaf recipes:
Layla Payton I don't use a recipe, but I like to make "Pizza Meatloaf," buy adding bell peppers, Parmesan cheese, and garlic/Italian seasonings to the typical meat mixture. Then I form two to three loaves, stuff them with mozzarella, and cover them in Hunt's spaghetti sauce...YUMM-O!
Layla Payton ‎...don't forget to sprinkle the tops with a little more Parmesan.
September 27, 2010 at 1:17pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Christy Crouch Smith

I never thought of parmesan! Good idea! We use toasted oats instead of bread or crackers. I add mushrooms, bell pepper, onion garlic italian diced tomatoes and some kind of chunky spaghetti sauce.
My Grandma makes porcupine Meat loaf (in l...See More
September 27, 2010 at 1:26pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Adrienne Martin Blalack Justin and I like the Rotel meatloaf recipe. Kind of spicy though.
September 27, 2010 at 1:29pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Amy Dugdale Stuart I have an excellant Hawiian Meatloaf recipe if you would like it LMK...
September 27, 2010 at 1:47pm · Unlike ·   2 people

Layla Payton Okay, that ^ sounds YUMMY!
September 27, 2010 at 1:47pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Layla Payton ‎(Not that you were asking me. LOL!)
September 27, 2010 at 1:48pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Allison Henson oh my MIL's, it is simple as I do not like alot of "extra" stuf in my food. She uses 2 lbs of hamburger, oats or crackers, (I think 1 cup ) tomato juice, salt and pepper to taste, and top with catsup. She seperates these into two loafs and our big family usualy has them the next day for lunch! YUM
September 27, 2010 at 1:56pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Kelli Walter Pioneer Woman has a recipe for bacon wrapped meatloaf that looks super yummy, but I haven't tried it.
September 27, 2010 at 2:14pm · Like

Kelli Walter I use hamburger, stove top, egg, bbq sauce, and a splash of worcestershire. I also shape in balls and bake in cupcake pan so they bake faster. Oh and ketchup on top before baking.
September 27, 2010 at 2:16pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Mandie Kay Briant We love our meatloaf. It is probably a simple one, but it is the one we grew up with. Just the normal hamburger, egg, crackers, onions, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix together, bake, and let get a little crispy on the edges. Yummmmmy!
September 27, 2010 at 2:19pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Amy Dugdale Stuart

Hawaiian Meatloaf (can also be made into meatballs)
2 lb ground beef
2 egg
1/3 of a can of crushed pineapple (or tidbits if you aren't trying to hide them from the children like I am! :-) , Drain and save the juice
2 tbsp. chopped onion
4 tbsp. of pineapple juice
2/3 cup of breadcrumbs
1 tsp. of salt
(350’ for 1 hour in a 9x13” baking dish

Hawaiian Meatloaf Sauce:

1/2 cup of pineapple juice (or as much as you can get from the can)
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup of ketchup
Smoother on top and bake additional 5-10 min.

September 27, 2010 at 2:27pm · Unlike ·   2 people

Glenda Shirley-Yellowhorse Mine is the same as Mandie but I put ketchup on top :D
September 27, 2010 at 5:14pm · Unlike ·   1 person

Chrysinda Myers Thank you, ladies! Now I have lots of yummy recipies to try! The family (well, except for Pat) have a meatloaf-phobia, so I may have to shape them like hamburgers :D I'll let you know how it goes!

So I tried it, I made meat-loaf (gasp!) and the family loved it! I used Alton Brown's recipe, found here, but modified it a bit. http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/good-eats-meat-loaf-recipe/index.html for the original

Ingredients
1.5 cups bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Slap-Ya-Mamma
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 onion, roughly chopped
1 carrot, peeled and broken
9 whole cloves roasted garlic
1/2 bell pepper (red or green)
3 Lbs ground venison
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
For the glaze:
1 cup catsup
2 teaspoon ground cumin
1.5 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
3 Dashes hot pepper sauce
2 Tablespoons honey
Directions

Heat oven to 325 degrees F.

In a food processor bowl, combine croutons, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and thyme. Pulse until the mixture is of a fine texture. Place this mixture into a large bowl. Combine the onion, carrot, garlic, and red pepper in the food processor bowl. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped, but not pureed. Combine the vegetable mixture, ground sirloin, and ground chuck with the bread crumb mixture. Season the meat mixture with the kosher salt. Add the egg and combine thoroughly, but avoid squeezing the meat. This, I did in the Kitchen-aid, with the dough hook.

Shape into compact loaf in the center of a casserole pan. Cook for 1 hour to 1.5 hours, until juices run clear and then cut through center to check and see if it is done

Combine the catsup, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce and honey. Brush the glaze onto the meatloaf after it has been cooking for about 10 minutes.

This meatloaf is great served with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, found here: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Roasted-Garlic-Mashed-Potatoes/Detail.aspx
and buttered carrots with dill.

Siracha meat loaf is one I threw together from a few different recipies; I think I started with Alton Brown's as the base. Meatloaf is a great way to work in extra veggies/ other good stuff that some family members may not normally like, so be flexible with this recipe and do what works for you. This is a close approximation of what we do:

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
3/4 cup dry breadcrumbs
1/2 white onion, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup Sriracha Sauce, divided
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 egg whites

Topping:
1/4 cup catsup
1/3 cup Siracha
1/4 cup brown sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Lightly coat 7 x 3 x 2-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

Or cook on a cookie sheet- I like to form mine into a ring and cook it this way, so the grease can drain away from the meat as it cooks.

3. In large mixing bowl, combine everything Except topping ingredients Mix well.

4. Press evenly into prepared baking dish.
or form into ring, as described above.

5. Bake until meat thermometer registers 165°F; approximately 50

Seems to take only about 40 minutes when in ring form.

6. Sprinkle with brown sugar and put back in oven for 5 minutes. Then top wit siracha and ketchup, and cook until the top is nicely glazed, about 7 or 8 minutes more.

7. Remove from oven and allow to rest in/ on pan 5 minutes

Beef Stroganoff So Easy
Brown 1 lb ground beef with 4 minced cloves of garlic
when browned, drain then add 1 can cream of mushroom soup and 1 pkg onion soup mix. When all is combined and bubbling, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream. Voila! Tis done! Serve on toast, on scrambled eggs with toast points, on egg noodles, or in puff pastry cups, or as part of a shepherds pie, or in pastry crust lots of possibilities!
We don't ave this one often, because of the amount of packaged ingredients/ fat content- but I bet there are ways to make it healthier. Enjoy!

Strawberry Schaum
Wow! This is so good! AND a friendly dessert for dieters! http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Strawberry-Schaum-Torte/Detail.aspx#
* Update- I made this agqain and replaced some of the sugar with Splenda, but it did not bake as evenly or rise as well. I don't recommend Splenda in this recipe.

Toni Pettigrew's Grandma Reynold's
BANANA NUT ICE CREAM
Toni says, "This is an awesome ice cream recipe that has been in my family for many, many years. Does not have raw eggs in it. :)"

3 cups heavy cream
6 cups whole milk
3 tsp vanilla
1 small package banana cream instant pudding
4 bananas mashed
1 ½ cup chopped pecans
2 cups sugar

Combine everything in a bowl and mix with mixer about 4 minutes. Pour into ice cream maker. It's that easy!

Makes about 12 servings.

Vinita's Masala Chai (spiced tea)

2 teaspoons loose tea, or two bags of unflavored tea

6-10 whole cloves

2 inch piece of cinnamon stick, broken

6-10 green cardamom pods, opened

2 teaspoons ginger peels, or four 1/10th of an inch ginger slices

2 teaspoons lemon grass(optional)

2 cups of water, or 1 cup water and 1 cup milk(for the traditional Masala Chai)

4 teaspoons of sugar, or if you are using milk, sugar to taste

Put all ingredients in a pot that will allow for the mixture to come to a full boil. Bring to a full boil and then use a fine strainer to strain into cups.

Makes about two 8oz cups of tea.

Note 1: Chai means “tea” in Hindi. If you ask for chai, you are asking for tea made with tea leaves, water and milk, sometimes sweetened.

Masala Chai, on the other hand, is tea made with tea leaves, water, milk and what we might call baking spices in the US, ginger, cloves, cinnamon and green cardamom. Green cardamom and lemon grass can be found in Indian and Chinese grocery stores. Use the spices you have handy, it is not necessary that you have all the spices every single time.

Note 2: I tend to drink Masala Chai without milk because I am lactose intolerant, so this recipe might be milder and sweeter with milk added. I sometimes use plain non-dairy creamer, if I want that traditional feel.

Note 3: I use ginger peels in my tea. I buy a hand of ginger from the store and wash it thoroughly. Then I peel it. I save the peels on a plate, in a place where I won't disturb it. It takes about 7 days for the peels to air dry. Then I put them in an air tight container. If the container starts showing droplets of moisture, the peels are not completely dry. I take them out again and air dry them for another 3-4 days. Depending on the moisture in the air, the peels should take 7-10 days to dry.

You can substitute fresh ginger slices for the peels, if you like. Use about two 1/10th of an inch per cup of tea you plan on making.

Especially when I have a cold, I increase the ginger in my tea. It helps to open up stuffed nasal passages.

Note 4: I don't throw away my tea ingredients after the first tea of the morning. If it turns out to be a cold day, I add more water to it and make more tea, that I drink through the day. I only throw them out the next day and start with a new batch of tea leaves and spices.

Another FB friend recipe, posted by Kelly Harris:
Edible Playdough
1 box name brand white cake mix
1 stick soft but not melted margarine
+ - 3 tablespoons water

Mix cake mix and margarine in large bowl. When it is well mixed add 1 teaspoon of water at a time and mix until the desired consistency. I give each child a plastic zip seal bag for storage (if there's any left!)

From Jody, a teacher, Sarasota, FL

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap- Front or top load machine- best value (The Duggar's recipe)

4 Cups - hot tap water
1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax
- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.
-Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel)
-Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.
-Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.
-Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads)
-Front Load Machines- ¼ Cup per load (Approx. 640 loads)
*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

Strawberry Schaum
·  · Share · Delete

2011-04-26T18:01:00.002-05:00

My cup runneth over!

Details to come, when I get more computer time.

Update:

How do I describe the mercy of God? His Love? His CONSTANT provision? The amazing blessings of people, used by Him to bless us, and others? I don't have the words, all I have to give is myself. I am yours, Lord- and am so, so grateful.

2011-04-25T17:05:00.007-05:00

So this morning I was (worrying- strike that,) concerned about having enough to eat and to feed the family in the next few weeks. Then this afternoon I went out to the garden to dig more rows and to plant- so thankful to God for the rain we've had. As I was digging, a carrot popped up on my digging claw! This is really something- See, we just celebrated the Feast of Firstfruits. As a family, we learned the firstfruits were always the choicest, the foremost, the first, the best, the preeminent of all that was to follow.

(Also,The harvest represents all who would put their faith, trust, and confidence (emunah) in the Messiah Yeshua (Matthew [Mattityahu] 13:37-43; Mark 4:26-29; Luke 10:2; Revelation 14:14-16).

Additionally, we learned about the way that God teaches us- through the natural, the things we can see and understand, to show a spiritual principle. (Matt 13:34)

I took this carrot today (how I wish I had a working camera to show you!) and was taught from the LORD- no matter what our circumstances, HE is already preparing a way and HE will provide! By Your grace and Spirit I will walk by faith, Lord- not by sight. YOU, LORD are preparing our way. We are so very grateful!

More verses on firstfruits-

1 Cor 15:20 But the fact is that the Messiah has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have died.

21 For since death came through a man, also the resurrection of the dead has come through a man.
22 For just as in connection with Adam all die, so in connection with the Messiah all will be made alive

2011-04-23T20:23:00.000-05:00

Kelly's new kitty

2011-04-23T20:17:00.000-05:00

Cowgirl Kitty- 6 weeks, available

2011-04-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Available Boy Kitty

2011-02-15T22:55:00.000-06:00

Some pics in honor of our 20th anniversary.

2010-12-10T09:44:00.000-06:00

2010 My year in Status:

2010-12-01T14:15:00.004-06:00

So thankful for Facebook!

Isn't that funny? That social media should elicit such a response? As I go through my day, I frequently check what is going on with my Facebook friends. Prayer requests, topical studies, and life updates are common- it is such a blessing!

Also, Facebook leads to some great studies. This is one from this morning:

Does God want women to wear headcoverings?

This was my reply to the video:

I understand his point- (really!) However, he did not go on to explain the rest of the passage. 1 Cor 15 says, " But a woman who wears her hair long enhances her appearance, because her hair has been given to her as a covering."
Okay, good, he said this. However, Verse 16 states: "However, if anyone wants to argue about it, the fact remains that we have no such custom, nor do the Messianic communities of God."
So, there was no such custom that a woman's long- hair suffices as the covering that is to be worn while praying or prophesying. And 2 Thess 2:15 says we are to hold to the traditions- 15 "Therefore, brothers, stand firm; and hold to the traditions you were taught by us, whether we spoke them or wrote them in a letter."
What are your thoughts?

The person who originally shared the video understood verse 16 differently than I do, and further shared:

We have seen SO MUCH HEARTACHE over this issue..families that acutally shun their families if they decide to uncover... it's terrible

I agree. it is a sad state when an issue causes division. Our basic responsibilities as gentile believers are to abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from fornication. Acts 15:29 Our real responsibilities go much deeper:

Matthew:

19:19 honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'"

Mark:

12:30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."

Luke:

6:31 Do to others as you would have them do to you. 32 What credit is it to you if you love only those who love you? Why, even sinners love those who love them. 33 What credit is it to you if you do good only to those who do good to you? Even sinners do that. 34 What credit is it to you if you lend only to those who you expect will pay you back? Even sinners lend to each other, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend expecting nothing back! Your reward will be great, and you will be children of Ha`Elyon; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.

10:27 He answered, "You are to love ADONAI your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your understanding; and your neighbor as yourself." 28 "That's the right answer," Yeshua said. "Do this, and you will have life." 29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Yeshua, "And who is my `neighbor'?" 30 Taking up the question, Yeshua said: "A man was going down from Yerushalayim to Yericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him naked and beat him up, then went off, leaving him half dead. 31 By coincidence, a cohen was going down on that road; but when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 Likewise a Levi who reached the place and saw him also passed by on the other side. 33 "But a man from Shomron who was traveling came upon him; and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion. 34 So he went up to him, put oil and wine on his wounds and bandaged them. Then he set him on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day, he took out two days' wages, gave them to the innkeeper and said, `Look after him; and if you spend more than this, I'll pay you back when I return.' 36 Of these three, which one seems to you to have become the `neighbor' of the man who fell among robbers?" 37 He answered, "The one who showed mercy toward him." Yeshua said to him, "You go and do as he did."

13:14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

34 "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

15:12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Romans:

1:12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.

5:7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.

12:9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

13:8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

14:19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.

15:1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.2 Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,

7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

1 Corinthians:

13:1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all
knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.5 It is not rude, it is not self seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

16:14 Do everything in love.

2 Corinthians:

1:4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are
comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.

14 as you have understood us in part, you will come to understand fully that you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.

2:4 For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you.

4:5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and
ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.

7:2 Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.

19 Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves to you? We have been speaking in the sight of God as those in Christ; and everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening.

13:9 We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is for your perfection.

Galatians:

5:13 You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness,

26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

6:2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,
especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Ephesians:

4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

5:2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up
for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Philippians:

1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,
7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you
in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the
gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me.8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,

23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

2:2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.

Colossians:

1:3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints--
24 Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh
what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of
his body, which is the church.
28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.
2:2 My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ,
3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe
yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

1 Thessalonians:

2:7 but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children.8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

3:10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.

12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

4:9 Now about brotherly love we do not need to write to you, for you
yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.

5:8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

2 Thessalonians:

1:4 Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.

1 Timothy:

1:5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

2 Timothy:

1:3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear
conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.

2:10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

Hebrews:

6:10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.

10:24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

13:1 Keep on loving each other as brothers.2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.3 Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

James:

1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

2:8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.

1 Peter:

1:22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.

2:17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.

3:8 Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

4:8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a
multitude of sins.

2 Peter:

1:7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.

1 John:

2:10 Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.

3:11 This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death.

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.17 If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

23 And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us.

4:7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

20 If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen.21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well.2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

2 John:

1:5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another.

Again, Romans 14:19 *Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.*

This study today applies in so many different ways, to so many issues I've been struggling over. I'm so very grateful for it! May His Word bless you, too!

Thanks for the studies, Facebook Friends!

2010-11-29T15:36:00.004-06:00

Remembering an amazing time...

This was a "Last Days" retreat, with teaching by Cliff James (center, with cane). What a great time! Here is a link to Cliff's website, lots of good info here www.theearlychurch.com .

A Day Of Rest: Sabbath (Messianic Judaism)

2010-11-28T15:12:00.000-06:00

A Day Of Rest: Sabbath (Messianic Judaism)

Animals And Kashrut (Messianic Judaism)

2010-11-28T15:10:00.000-06:00

Animals And Kashrut (Messianic Judaism)

Conversion: Do Gentiles Need To Convert To Messianic Judaism?"

2010-11-28T14:48:00.000-06:00

Conversion: Do Gentiles Need To Convert To Messianic Judaism?"

2010-11-28T13:30:00.004-06:00

Am I the only one?

Am I the only one who won't join a denominational "church" because the word says we are to be in Unity? (John 17:20-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 1 Corinthians 3:3-4)

Am I the only one who sees the Sabbath is important, but who recognizes "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind" (Romans 14:5, and Colossians 2:16)?

Am I the only one who refuses to partake in a false, watered-down version of what God has in mind for His believers? Who recognizes what man has done to His Church and who is sick over it? Who is not satisfied with the common Christianity? Who yearns for more, for fellowship with fellow believers who seek truth? Who are devoted to Christ in every aspect of their lives? Who understand that our understanding does and should evolve and deepen? Who truly know what it is to seek God and to be blessed by Him?

Even if I am, by God's grace, I will continue to seek God and His Truth. By His Strength, I will walk in His ways. James 1:22-25 I would love to have your company on this journey. But even if I can not, as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15

2010-10-09T18:15:00.004-05:00

BIOBLITZ 2010

About BioBlitz!
The Oklahoma BioBlitz! is a rapid inventory of biological diversity hosted by the Oklahoma Biological Survey and conducted by volunteers from around the state and the region. These volunteers count as many species as possible in 24 consecutive hours. Our volunteers range from university professors to boy scouts to high school students to enthusiastic retirees. Anyone who is interested can volunteer to help count Oklahoma's diversity!

Bioblitz is a fun and exciting event to educate people about the natural diversity "in their back yard." BioBlitz offers a hands-on scientific experience and a chance to learn more about the diversity of life where people live.

BioBlitz was invented in 1996 by scientists from the National Parks Service and inaugurated in Washington, D.C., by scientists from the National Park Service, the National Botanical Garden, and the Smithsonian Institution. BioBlitz of varying types have since been conducted in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New York, Texas, North Carolina, North Dakota and other states.

This was our first year at Bioblitz. It was a great, fun experience. Daniel had a lot of fun with fellow homeschooler, Drew.

2010-10-09T18:13:00.000-05:00

My little cowpoke

(See James laughing in the background?)

2010-10-04T18:37:00.004-05:00

Homeschool day at the Oklahoma History Museum!

Daniel with a very knowledgeable Civil War Soldier

The Twilight Avenger

Yes! From the Bat Cave!

Sammy reading an Oklahoma- produced comic.

What a well-organized event! It was free, the staff was welcoming and gracious, the building is well designed, constructed and maintained and the volunteers were lovely. It was a great trip! The Oklahoma History Center did a great job!

2010-10-04T08:49:00.000-05:00

If you give a Pat a camera...
He takes hundreds of pictures
But here are just a few
for you to enjoy and view.

I think it is great to turn a kids loose with a camera. It's great to see things from their perspective, and to see what they consider important. I spared you the multiple shots of dogs' hind-ends, and there were other interesting pics as well- What our house looks like from the outside, looking into a window, plants, bushes, trees, the perspective lines the structure of the porch makes, a broom, etc. Interesting!

2010-10-04T08:44:00.000-05:00

A picnic with a view

A view from our picnic spot (our yard)

Some picnic company

See? It's an official picnic. We had an ant guest!

2010-10-04T08:39:00.000-05:00

Chickens, grown up

Just a few pictures we caught of our chickens, during a picnic. The rooster is named Darth, and was given to us by a lovely near-by couple who have let Daniel help with a fencing project. He's been a very good rooster.

2010-10-03T17:01:00.002-05:00

They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. Isaiah 65:22

2010-10-03T16:59:00.000-05:00

A brief visit

We have had such lovely weather that we've been leaving the doors open. Last night, as Daniel was working on his leathercrafting, we were visited by this little moth. Aren't his colors beautiful?

2010-10-03T16:56:00.000-05:00

Special treat- pizza night!

All these are made with french bread loaves, which I toasted in the oven.
They have a base of alfredo sauce and mozz. cheese. To that, (from top to bottom) we added
turkey pepperoni,
sauteed garlic, portobello mushroom and spinach,
and garlic and tomato (Pat's idea!)

They were all very good; I think I prefer Pat's tomato and garlic pizza the best!

2010-10-03T16:49:00.000-05:00

Patrick's own creation- Spider Bot!

He can do stuff like oh, say, stomp on enemies and squish them, if you fold up his arms I bet he could connect to some things like railings and such, he has a scope head and he has a hole in his middle for a little rider.

2010-09-29T13:14:00.003-05:00

Oklahoma Outdoor Expo, Day 2

2010-09-25T18:46:00.001-05:00

Daniel Golfing

2010-09-25T18:45:00.003-05:00

Wildlife Expo!

Wow- where to begin? Okay. Well, the Wildlife Expo is a HUGE event held in Oklahoma. Did I say "HUGE"? Yeah, I did. Last year there were over 40,000 people who attended this, um, huge event- okay, it's not just huge, it's grand! It's really, really cool and there is a TON of free stuff to do! Here are just a few highlights from our day:

Tomorrow is another day of merry-making. Hopefully by then I'll have found my vocabulary... I know it is around here, somewhere...........

2010-09-25T18:40:00.004-05:00

Transformation

I was reading my blog the other day and came across an old post- something about a meme. Anyway, it is replete with double entendre which isn't honoring to the Lord. Keep in mind, this is written after I was a believer, after I had a relationship with Christ. I was shocked at my own writings! "Why would I write that?" I thought. How does That honor the Lord?

So, I had another thought- do I delete the post? After all, many of the answers I gave no longer suited me- I have changed.

But, I decided not to. See, this gives glory to God- not for my answers- but for the change He has made in me- for the fact is, He is sanctifying me, making me more into the image of His Son. I am not who I was, I am drawing ever-closer to Christ.

Blessed be our Lord, who is full of compassion, grace and mercy. May He continue the work He has begun. I am so very thankful to Him.

2010-09-25T17:22:00.001-05:00

If you give a Mouse a Cookie or If you give a Pat a Money

He builds a candy-volcano.

Actually, he and Daniel earned the money, which explains how it was they could buy this much candy! *sigh*

2010-08-25T07:02:00.001-05:00

So I stepped out the back door this morning

to check on the chickens

and there, almost in the driveway, it is looking at me

a fine

yummy

deer.

And his doe.

awwwwwwwwww

so I go inside

and I come back out

and I'm all ready to shoot...

with my camera. :D

Enjoy our harvest:

2010-08-25T06:59:00.001-05:00

This is Lord Fluffy-butt, AKA Yuji, AKA Tubs. He's gone from being room cat for 2+ years to being a house cat and even venturing the occasional paw onto the back steps... hmmmmmmmmmm Oh, he also likes to be held in this position and having his belly rubbed... nah, our animals aren't spoiled. :P

2010-08-23T07:03:00.002-05:00

God has blessed us with an abundance of cantaloupe from the garden, so my brilliant daughter came up with a plan- Introducing Jack-o-loupes!

This is Daniel's- it is some sort of beastie like you would find in Bionicle- it even has an articulated jaw!

Pat's is a something-bot with laser arms- though it looks like it is getting munched on here...

Sammy's is a Pirate-loupe!- See the eye-patch?

It was easy and a lot of fun. In the next day or two, we'll have Jack-o-loupe lemonades!

2010-08-16T16:09:00.001-05:00

WOW! The price of The Mystery of History Folderbooks have dropped to $12/Quarter, $32/Full Year Download, or $40 on CD. Follow links on the sidebar to the right.

2010-08-11T07:03:00.000-05:00

Our First Egg!

I should have gotten a picture of it before I mixed it- but this is a pretty-true color representation- the yoke was the color of tumeric!

We're loving our happy, free-ranging chickens! We're blessed with some really awesome neighbors, so they have 4+ acres to roam.

What Fun!

2010-07-24T10:46:00.002-05:00

For Daniel's 11th birthday, my mom got him a leather working set. He loves it!

This is his practice piece. He has had a great time learning the techniques for the different tools!

2010-07-17T14:07:00.001-05:00

My Mommy

Always creating something. :)

2010-07-17T13:57:00.002-05:00

A Morning at Martin Nature Park

Daniel Grinding, then sifting clay

Yea! Pictures of Grandma and Sammy together!

(She is almost as hard to catch in pictures as I am)

Next post... Mom in her natural element!

2010-07-10T10:36:00.000-05:00

Our First Harvest!

Cucumbers, fresh from the garden

Thank you to everyone who has had a hand in our garden! We are so blessed!

2010-07-10T08:00:00.003-05:00

A Little Vacation

Friday we went on a field trip to Sun Berry Orchard in Luther, OK. It was lovely! The weather was overcast, the berries were huge, and we were with more than 150 of our fellow homeschoolers! What fun!

My mommy came too! Here she and Daniel are in the photo-op wagon

After the orchard, we went to POPS, which has the biggest, coolest selection of soda anywhere- on historic Route 66! Each kid got to pick a special soda and we got some nice chat-time with our homeschool friends.

Of course, after all that fun, we were hungry- so off we went to

National Chicken Day at Chick-Fil-A!

What a lovely, lovely time! We are so blessed!

2010-07-04T11:32:00.003-05:00

Beautiful things outdoors

All these are growing on our property- Have I mentioned how very blessed we are?

Cucumbers

Cantaloupe

Black- eyed Susans

Nasturtiums and other garden bed plants

2010-07-04T11:29:00.001-05:00

Bountiful Blessings!!!!!

My brother came all the way from Muskogee and dug us this HUGE garden! Isn't it lovely?

I asked Pat to stand at the far side so we would have a sense of scale- see him back there?

These are cucumber plants

And these are cantaloupe

What an amazing blessing! We also have peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, squash, pumpkins, radishes, peas, melons, carrots, kohlrabi, cauliflower, blackberries, watermelon and more planted!

2010-05-21T11:24:00.001-05:00

A Turken eating

A Turken sunning herself

A Cornish Rock cross

2010-05-21T11:18:00.004-05:00

Morning Free Ranging

2010-05-21T11:05:00.001-05:00

Mo, the wonder Rooster

Mo was a gift from a lovely fellow homeschooling family.
He is such a joy. He is also a lovely, gentle boy. We're all so pleased. He will come when called and he even lets us pet him!

2010-05-21T11:04:00.000-05:00

More Mo

2010-05-19T16:23:00.001-05:00

Peeps!
A dear homeschooling friend hatched these from eggs. Aren't they great?
Thank you, L for your generosity- they're settling in very well at our little family farm.

2010-05-19T16:17:00.001-05:00

Free Ranging!

2010-05-19T16:16:00.001-05:00

This is how we do school at Wholesome Life Farms.

A gentle breeze blowing, the sun shining, the sounds of wildlife all around and instead of some stuffy classroom walls, or busy-work Media event, real live chickens. Homeschooling has so many rewards, being able to tailor each child's education, spending time together, giving children a concrete feel for what is real, and important. God has blessed us so very much. I'm eternally grateful to Him for this blessed time I have with these precious children He has given me to care for. What an amazing Lord we have!

2010-05-16T22:25:00.000-05:00

Martin Nature Park Kids' Quotes

"I think it was great! I learned a lot and it was a really fun field trip. I liked the turtles and fish, and the bird-watching wall. The squirrel who went inside the feeder was funny!" ~ Daniel

"There was a cool water loop-de-loop thing! I got a picture!" ~Patrick

You get to see real beaver tooth marks!" ~ Daniel

"And tree sap!" ~Patrick

"How the beavers were on a mission to kill the trees, not eating them, was interesting to learn." ~ Daniel

"You get to learn about different trees and they have a HUGE cottonwood!" ~ Daniel

2010-04-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

Another chicken pic :)

2010-04-24T08:51:00.000-05:00

Chickens- my, how they've grown!

2010-04-11T11:06:00.002-05:00

The face behind the blog

If you've been following my blog for a while, you may have noticed I'm missing from um, all the pictures. Well, this is by accident as well as design. (It's hard to be In the pic, when you're the one taking it.) I thought I'd post one of me to satisfy the insatiable curiosity of my readers (ok, don't worry, I know this doesn't exist). Enjoy- or be afraid, very afraid- it's your choice.