Family Inspiration - 19 DEC

The Lord doesn't always remove the sources of stress in our lives ... but He's always there and cares for us.  We can feel His arms around us on the darkest nights.

He takes care of his people like a shepherd.  He gathers them like lambs in his arms and carries them close to him. 
Isaiah 40:11

Molasses Cookies

These cookies were surprisingly yummy.  I'm not a big molasses fan, and I made these for my Dad ....(Sssshhh don't tell him, I mailed them to him for Christmas) but I had to try them before I sent them.  And I couldn't believe how good they were.  So even if you aren't a big fan of molasses you may want to give them a try.  They remind me of a spicy sugar cookie.
(This recipe is adapted from a recipe from Joyofbaking.com, I'm using their picture because I forgot to take one before I packed them up)

2 cups AP flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

1 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1/3 cup unsulphured molasses

1 large egg

1 tbsp vanilla

garnish: 1 cup white sugar

With an electric mixer beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.  Add the oil, molasses, egg and vanilla, beat until incorporated.  In a separate bowl, mix together dry ingredients.  Add flour mixture to butter/sugar mixture and beat until well incorporated.  Cover and chill the batter about 2 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350*, Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place 1 cup of sugar in a bowl.

When dough has chilled, roll into 2-3" balls.  I used an ice cream scoop to make my balls.  Roll the balls of dough into the sugar, coating them thoroughly.  Place 4 per sheet.  Flatten cookies slightly with bottom of glass dipped in sugar.  Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies have crinkles yet are barely dry. They will look a little underdone.  Remove from oven and cool.  Makes 14 large cookies.

Family Inspiration - 13 DEC

Those children who have learned to conquer their problems are more secure than those who have never faced them.  Our task as parents, therefore, is not to eliminate every challenge for our children; it is to serve as a confident ally to help them through them.
(Hide or Seek, P. 79)

He... wonderfully comforts and strengthen us.
2 Corinthians 1:3

Sinus Problems? .... This may help.

In our home, we all suffer from allergies and how bad it gets depends on the season, the weather, if the heats running or how dry the air is.  I'm not big on pharmaceuticals, I prefer a holistic treatments, then if that doesn't work I'll have to find another method of relief.  And for sinus problems I've found an over the counter medication that has worked really well for Matt and I.

Our first method of relief is the neti pot.  If you haven't tried one, you should.  Yes it's a little scary at first, but once you get the hang of it, it does wonders for your sinus.  You use a saline solution of 16 oz. water to 1/4 tsp salt.  Make sure the water is room temperature, you don't want to use it too cold or hot.

If you have sinus pressure and the neti pot just doesn't do it for you, I've found the solution.  Have you heard of Advil Congestion Relief? ...  So have I, but it's expensive ... $9 for 18 tablets

At Walmart you can purchase the exact same thing for so much less. 
The Advil product is a combination of Ibuprofen 200mg and Suphedrine PE 10mg.  (I read all labels carefully.)
You can purchase separately in the Equate brand, Suphedrine 36 tablets for $3 and Ibuprofen 200 tablets for $4.  Take one of each to equal the Advil Congestion Relief.  That's a great savings!!  I hope this helps some of you.

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

These are so yummy! I made them for a party last weekend and they were a big hit.

18 pecan shortbread cookies, crushed to 2-1/4 cups
1/4 cup butter, melted (divided)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup broken pecans
1/2 cup miniature semi-sweet chocolate morsels

In small bowl stir together crushed cookies, flour and 2 tablespoons of the butter.  Press into bottom of ungreased 11x7x1-1/2 inch baking pan.  Bake at 350* for 10 minutes.

For filling, in medium bowl stir together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, the remaining butter and vanilla.  Stir in pecans and chocolate morsels.  Evenly spread over hot crust.  Bake at 350* about 20 minutes or until filling is set.  Cool completely in pan on wire rack before cutting.

Family Inspiration - 5 DEC

Parents are accountable before God to meet their responsibilities to their children, and He is vitally concerned about their welfare.
(Parenting Isn't For Cowards, p. 81)

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

Our Thanksgiving 2011

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.  I cooked, Matt and the kids played, it was just a great day and weekend. 

The Menu
Roasted Turkey     Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes   Gravy
Dinner Rolls           Green Bean Casserole
Sweet Potatoes      Sausage Balls
Pumpkin Pie           Molasses Bourbon Pecan Pie
Jello Mold              Cranberry Sauce

ROASTED TURKEY: I simply slathered the turkey in butter, S&P and some cajun seasoning, stuffed it with onions, carrots and celery.  Put it into a cooking bag and cooked it in my roaster.  It took about 3-1/2 hours for a 22lb'r.

STUFFING:  I used a mixture of sourdough and cornbread stuffing.  Kept it real basic.  Cooked 1/2 lb hot sausage, then added the sauteed onion, celery and a little shredded carrot.  For the liquid I used stock made from the giblets and veggies.  Put it into a buttered baking dish then slathered with gravy.  Baked for 30 minutes.









MASHED POTATOES:  Basic russet potatoes, cut up and boiled in half stock/half salted water.  Mashed with warmed butter, milk and boiling liquid. S&P to taste.

 

GRAVY:  You have to use the broth from giblet stock and/or the turkey dripping to make a good gravy.  I made a batch from each, then mixed them together.  I did this because I needed gravy for the stuffing before the turkey was done.  Made a rouge with onion & butter, then added the stock.  S&P to taste.  Very basic and very good.

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE: This is an old standard that is one of my favorites.  Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, S&P and some frenched fried onion.  This recipe is every where this time of year.

BOURBON GLAZED SWEET POTATOES
3 pounds of raw sweet potatoes, about 4
Kosher salt, to taste
1/2 cup (1 stick) of cold salted butter, divided
1/4 cup of 2 parts corn syrup 1 part molasses
1-1/2 cups of brown sugar, packed and divided
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 cup of chopped pecans
1/2 cup of bourbon, I used Makers Mark
1/2 cup miniature marshmallow's
Bake the sweet potatoes at 400 degrees F for about 45-50 minutes, or just until fork tender
but not mushy. Can be done in advance; can also boil whole until tender. Butter a 9 x 9 inch
casserole dish; set aside. Once sweet potatoes are cooled, peel, cut into 1/2 inch rounds and
layer into the casserole dish, sprinkling a few light pinches of salt in between the layers.
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Melt half of the butter in a skillet, stirring in the syrup mixture
and half of the brown sugar until blended. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice and pecans.
Remove from the heat and stir in the bourbon. Taste and adjust as needed.
Pour the butter and bourbon mixture on top of the sweet potatoes. Cut the remaining butter into
thin slices and spread over the top of the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the rest of the brown sugar
all over the top.
Bake, uncovered at 325 degrees F, basting a few times with a spoon or a baster, for about 25-30
minutes, or until bubbly and thickened. Top with marshmallows, put back in oven till melted and crusty about 5 minutes.

SAUSAGE CHEESE BALLS
The sausage balls are a tradition that came from Matt's Nanny.  This is an item I'll cooked and pass down to our kids each Thanksgiving. 
8-10 ounces sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2-1/2 cups of  buttermilk baking mix
1 pound of hot bulk pork sausage
Pinch of kosher salt
10 turns of the pepper grinder
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, optional
1 teaspoon of dried parsley
About 1/3 cup of milk, more or less
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all the ingredients together until well blended, using just
enough milk to bring mixture together. You do not want it to be soupy! Shape into small balls,
about 1" in size. I use a cookie scoop just to make it easier. Place on an ungreased baking
sheet, spaced apart about an inch.
Bake for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until well browned, switching trays around in
the oven halfway through. Remove from oven.
Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Can also make ahead and frozen. Bake directly from the freezer at 350*, about 30
minutes or until well browned and cooked through.

PUMPKIN PIE
My pumpkin pie recipe was the sweetened condensed mil version, it was also make with home made pumpkin puree from this years Jack-O lanterns.  Using homemade puree really made this pie, the color and flavor were amazing.  If you need a recipe, let me know and I will get you one.  I also made my own crust.

MOLASSES-BOURBON PECAN PIE

1 cup molasses

1 cup sugar

4 large eggs, beaten

3 tbsp bourbon, I used Makers Mark

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

1 tbsp vanilla

pinch of kosher salt

2-1/2 cups broken pecans

1 9 inch pie crust

Preheat oven to 350*

Mix all ingredients except pecans.  Evenly spread pecans in unbaked pie shell, pour filling over pecans.

Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, until firm around the edges and slightly loose in the center.  Cool before serving.

 

 

JELLO MOLD

This is a tradition carried on from my Nana.  She always made jello on the holidays and it was my favorite part of the meal.  I made a 3 layer mold, lime with mixed fruit, cherry with cool whip, and orange with mandarin oranges.

Family Inspiration - 30 NOV

You have to lay the foundation of values and attitudes during the early years.  Then you will have something to build on when the moment of independence comes.
"Turn Your Heart Toward home" (Film)

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:11

Family Inspiration - 26 NOV

“That you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” Deuteronomy 30:20 NIV

Today we’ve bought into this myth that love is uncontrollable, that it’s something that just happens to us. In fact, even the language we use implies the uncontrollability of love. We say, “I fell in love,” as if love is some kind of a ditch. It’s like I’m walking along one day and — bam! — I fell in love. I couldn’t help myself. 
But I have to tell you the truth: That’s not love. Love doesn’t just happen to you. Love is a choice, and it represents a commitment. 

September Book List

Speaking Christian; Marcus J. Borg.  "Why Christian Words Have Lost Their Meaning and Power, and How They Can Be Restored" ... Really, this is what the book was about?  The book basically gave the meanings, biblical and otherwise, of words like ... Jesus, Repent, Forgiveness, kinda like a bible dictionary.  This book wasn't what I expected and actually kind of boring.  I would only recommend it to someone who was just learning about Christianity.

Stuffed Zucchini

I purchased a couple HUGE zucchini's from this little farmer for $1 each.  I made Zucchini bread with most of it, but wanted to do something different for lunch so I came up with this recipe.  It's simple but tasty and you can do two meals in one, by use half the meat for the stuffing and the other half for meatloaf. 

What I used ....
1.5 lb ground beef
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 sleeve saltine crackers
2 eggs
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
S&P to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 large zucchini, seeded and cut in half lengthwise
4 slices of cheese, I used Havarti and Cheddar

Saute onion, mushrooms, garlic and bell pepper in olive oil or butter. Let cool.

Place Zucchini on foil lined cookie sheet.  Brush with olive oil and season with S&P.

Mix together beef, turkey, eggs, crackers, ketchup, worcestershire sauce, S&P, Italian seasoning and onion mixture.  Divide mixture in half and put other 1/2 away for meat loaf.

Stuff Zucchini's with meat mixture.   Cook at 350* for 30 minutes. 

Once cooked, top with cheese and let melt.

Old Fashioned Coffee Cake

Made this for breakfast yesterday.  Matt and the kids had most of it gone before I could get the rest of breakfast on the table.  It's a very simple, tasty cake.  Best served warm, but great to make ahead of time. 

1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped nuts (I used walnuts)
4 tablespoons melted butter, divided
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder

Preheat oven to 375*
Whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, 1 tablespoon flour and nuts; stir in 2 tablespoon of the melted butter until well mixed and set aside.

Butter a glass 8x8 baking pan.  mix together the other 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the granulated sugar.  Whisk together the milk and egg; add that to the sugar.  Whisk together the 1 cup of flour, salt and baking powder, and mix directly into the milk mixture and beat until smooth.  Pour into the baking pan.

Sprinkle the brown sugar topping evenly across the top and bake for 25 minutes.  Remove and set aside to cool just enough to handle.  Serve with piping hot coffee.

Smothered Grilled Chicken

I got the idea for this recipe from one of the blogs I read.  My recipe is much more simple than the one I got the idea from, but it has the same yumminess under all that melted cheese.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 large onion
1 lb sliced mushrooms
1/4 lb bacon cooked into bits
4 slices Havarti cheese (you can use your favorite cheese)

Before you cook your chicken, you need to ....
1. Cook the bacon and cut into bits.
2.. Thinly slice onion and caramelize in 1 tsp oil.
3. Saute mushrooms. (I used butter and garlic salt)

Season and cook your chicken breast on the grill. I just used S&P and a little Ms. Dash.
Once chicken is cooked, pile on onions, mushrooms and bacon.  Cover each breast with 2 slices of cheese, let melt and ...  Enjoy!!

Homemade Chili

According to Matt, this was the best pot of chili I every made and I'd have to agree.  I used tomatoes, bell peppers and jalapenos from our garden, topped with cheese and sour cream ... it was so yummy.  Unfortunatly I can't remember exactly how much of the ingredients I used, so this is my best estimation.

1.5 lb. ground beef
1 Ortega taco seasoning packet
8 medium tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
3 large garlic cloves, minced
4 small jalapanos, minced - remove seeds for less heat
1 tbp oil
1 -15oz can white beans (navy beans)
1 -15oz can black beans
1-2 tsp ancho chili powder or to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika or to taste
dash or two of cumin
salt and pepper to taste

1. Brown the ground beef and add taco seasoning according to package directions. Set aside.
2. Saute onion, bell pepper, garlic and jalapanos in oil. Set aside.
3. Peel tomatoes.  In same pot used for sauteing, mash tomatoes with potatoe masher. Add S&P to taste and let cook down, approx 10 minutes or so.
4. Add onion mixture and beef to tomatoes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Drain beans and add to mixture. 
6. Give it a taste and add remaining spices, let simmer 10 minutes then give another taste and add more spices if needed.

Toppings:  diced onion, sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.

Family Inspiration - 6 Sept

If a woman is to have the contentment and self-satisfaction necessary to produce a successful family, she needs the constant support and respect of the man she loves.
(What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Women, p162)

And you husbands, show the same kind of love to your wives as Christ showed to the Church when he died for her.
Ephesians 5:25

My Journey ...

Through your journey as a believer, a lover of Christ, a Christian ... you are taught to put God first in your life. In the beginning I had a hard time with that concept. How could I put any one before my husband and kids?

As my faith grew, I soon realized that it’s because I love my husband and kids so much that I have to chose to put God first.

By putting God first I’ve not only learned the meaning of true love, I’ve become a better Mother and Wife, and that is the greatest gift I can give my family.

Matthew 6:33; But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you.

Family Inspiration - 15 Aug

A mother plays a vital role as the primary interpreter of a father's personality, character and integrity to their children.  She can either help them bond together in love, or she can become a wedge that keeps them apart.
(Parenting Isn't For Cowards, p.163)

And the two shall be one.
Ephesians 5:31

August Book List

I'm posting my book list early this month. I've already read the two books I planned on reading and have decided to commit the rest of this month to solely reading Gods Word.  So here is my short list.

Jesus, My Father, The CIA, and Me; Ian Morgan Cron.  A memoir ... of sorts. This was a really good book, it was hard to put down.  It made me laugh and cry.  It's Ian's story of growing up with an alcoholic father and his journey of becoming a man and father himself, and building a relationship with God.

The Help; Kathryn Stockett.  This book is set in the early 1960's and tells the story of black maids that work for the white families of the South. I LOVED this book!! And I can't wait to see the movie. I read it in 3 nights. It made me laugh, cry and everything in between.  I didn't want it too end, I wanted to know more about the characters.  And after learning about the author, you realize this story is based on her own life growing up during that time.  She did a great job writing this story and I highly recommend this book.

Brown Sugar Brownies (Blondies)

I believe this may be my new favorite treat!! They are so good and so easy, you just can't go wrong with these brownies. 

1-1/3 cup sifted AP flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 tbsp vanilla
1/2 cups chopped pecans (you can also use walnuts)

Pre-heat oven to 350*.  Lightly grease a 9x9 pan.

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt and set aside.  In large bowl, beat together butter, sugar, egg and vanilla until smooth.

Stir in the flour mixture and the nuts until well blended.  Spread evenly in prepared pan.  Bake 25-30 minutes or until surface springs back when gently pressed.  Cool slightly.  While still warm, cut into bars with a sharp knife.

Zucchini Nut Bread

I bought two huge zucchinis from this backyard farmer last week for $1.00. So what else is there to do but to make zucchini bread? I got this recipe from the blog Deep South Dish and it was really yummy. The only thing I changed was the amount of vanilla, which is what I wrote in the recipe shown.

3 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups packed brown sugar
1 tbsp vanilla
3 cups AP flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp kosher salt
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups unpeeled zucchini, shredded

Butter and flour or spray two small 8x4 inch loaf pans with Baker's Joy; set aside. Preheat oven to 350*.

Beat eggs; add the oil and granulated sugar; beat until blended and thickened.  Stir in the brown sugar and add the vanilla.  In a separate bowl, whisk together  the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt, breaking up any flour lumps; stir in the pecans.  Add the zucchini to the brown sugar mixture and stir.

Combine the dry ingredients with the wet and gently mix together; do not beat.  Pour evenly into the prepared loaf pans and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes (checking first at 40 min.), or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.  Do not overcook or the bread will be dry.  Let rest for 5 minutes in the pans, then transfer loaves to a rack to cool slightly.  Best served warm.  Let cool completely before storing; store leftovers in the fridge.

Family Inspiration - 8 Aug

Prescription for a happier and healthier life: Resolve to slow your pace; learn to say "no" gracefully; resist the temptation to chase after more pleasures, hobbies, and more social entanglements.  Then "hold the line" with the tenacity of a tackle for a professional football team.
(What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Women, p.51)

You will find rest for your souls.
Jeremiah 6:16

Summer Nights

I love the sounds a summer night brings.
I love the smell of wood burning in the fire pit.
I love the peacefulness of the dancing flames.
Ah, summer.

Family Inspiration - 1 Aug

The healthiest families are those that can discuss sensitive subjects in an atmosphere of openness and acceptance.
(Love Must Be Tough, p.93)

Love ... always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:6,7

July Book List

The Punch Bowl; Dan Searing.  This book celebrates the 21st century renaissance of this classic concoction, with 75 recipes that date from the 18th century to today.  It also features a brief but colorful history of punch as well as stunning photographs of vintage serving sets and contemporary engravings and maps from the drinks heyday.  This was a fun book to read and I took note of several of the recipes.

How to Eat a Small Country; Amy Finley.  A family's pursuit of happiness, one meal at a time.  This was a delightful memoir.  Amy's tale of moving to rural France (where family life still revolves around the dining table) to preserve her marriage and family is a great read.

The DNA of Relationships; Dr. Gary Smalley.  Discover how you are designed for satisfying relationships.  I would highly recommend this book to EVERYONE.  It teaches you how to have and/or save meaningful relationships and how to let go of ones that are harmful.

The Bible for Blockheads; Douglas Connelly.  A user friendly look at the good book.  This is an excellent book for anyone new to the Bible and to use as a bible study guide.

God and the Art of Happiness; Ellen T. Charry.  This book is about the deep connections between theology and ordinary life. .... It's boring!! Couldn't get through the first couple chapters and didn't finish it.

Try This; Danyelle Freeman.  Traveling the globe without leaving the table is the theme of this book.  It's basically a guide to eating out at all types of cuisine. .... Another BORING book I couldn't finish.

Family Inspiration - 27 July

A meaningful prayer life is essential in maintaining a Christ-centered home.
(Love For a Lifetime)

Be glad for all God is planning for you.  Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always.
Romans 12:12

Here Is The Truth

(This was sent to me via email, I don't know who the wrote it, but I felt it was worth posting.)

 

Here is the truth: when you are a Christian, Jesus lives in you in the form of the Holy Spirit. You know and believe the absolute Truth and try to share this with others. The reason we try to share this knowledge is out of *love*...not out of sense of having to be "right" or "intolerance of others" but because we know where those who do not repent & believe on Jesus are going.

Jesus spoke in parables, and I like to use them too. They help illustrate a point...

Let us imagine that a group of 100 people was walking down the middle of a road. You are a lookout on a hill above and can see the road beyond them. Coming right towards the group of walkers is a large semi-truck..full speed ahead...it was not a safe road to walk on.

You know the walkers must make the *right* turn in the road, or the truck would kill them all... so you run down the hill, full speed, knowing you don't have long to convince them. They can not see or hear the bus ahead but you tell them that it was coming, soon, and you know that if they all make the turn to the right, they will be safe. Your voice is urgent and bold...with love and concern nestled in your words. You feel that surely, these people will listen and know you are warning them for their *own* good.

A quarter of the people listen to you and trust you, for they know you are a lookout and trust you wouldn't lead them wrong. You breathe a bit easier as 25 of them turn to the right road. Another quarter of the walkers laugh at you. They tell you that you "worry too much" and "don't know what you are talking about". You stare at them, tears welling in your eyes ~ not for yourself but because of what awaits them around the next turn ~ as they walk away, jeering at the "stupid lookout". The third quarter of people yell at you... they say you always want to be "right" and "you don't know the right road". No, No, You want to say! I *do* know and am trying to help because I am concerned for you! Please listen! But they continue on, all of them arm in arm...feeling secure that they don't need the Truth. The last quarter of the crowd begin crying, for you are one of "those Christians"..."scaring" them and they feel that you are not being loving in your tone of voice. They tell you that any good lookout would be more gentle and tolerant of them. That you would not "make waves" and "interfere" with their lives. Would your Head Lookout be proud of you for scaring them and not "loving" them enough?

You move to the right road and walk with a burdened heart. You are so thankful that 25 people would be saved from this and feel as though you did your job correctly...but you are torn...because you know the other 75 are headed for sure-doom. What did you do wrong? What could you have done to save one more person? Why wouldn't they listen...?

There *are* true Christians in this world...people who don't just talk the talk...but they walk the walk. They don't walk the way of Christ because they think they are better than everyone else...but because they know the Truth and desire to serve God. They warn you because they love. Actually, to *not* warn you is what is un-loving. To let people walk themselves to eternal death is the *most* un-loving thing a Christian can do. No Christian is perfect. Sometimes we don't express ourselves perfectly or unintentionally hurt someone. But we try our best and make amends and repent for wrong-doings...all the while always proclaiming the Good News.

If we offend you because we say your beliefs or behavior is wrong....it isn't out of intolerance or an un-loving spirit. It's because we believe the Word of God...the True God. We believe in Jesus and His Sacrifice for us. To be loving is to *warn people of what is ahead if they don't take the right road*. If we try to tell you about it and you choose not to listen, you have made your choice...but it is our duty to tell you, **because** we love. Some do it self-righteously and are prideful (and even hypocritical sometimes) about it...their methods are wrong. But, no matter what, this Truth is absolute. Most Christians try to share it with you because they love.

 

No matter who you are or what you have been involved in....if you are breathing, there is time to make that turn!

Family Inspiration - 19 July

Married life offers no panacea - if it is going to reach its potential, it will require an all-out investment by both husband and wife.
(What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Women, p.103)

Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away.  If one were to give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
Song of Songs 8:7

Banana Nut Bread Muffins

These muffins smell amazing when they're baking, and taste pretty dang good too.  They are dense like bread, not fluffy like most muffins.  Sorry I didn't get a picture, they were gone before I could snap one.

1-1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs
1-1/2 cups flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3 very ripe large bananas, mashed
1 tbs vanilla
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

This recipe makes 12 jumbo size muffins.
Heat oven to 350*.  Spray muffin pan with cooking spray.
Blend together sugar, butter and eggs.  Add dry ingredients, which have been sifted together.  Add mashed bananas, chopped nuts and vanilla.  Pour evenly into muffin pans.
Bake for 20 - 24 minutes.  Start checking at 15 minutes.

Eight is enough!?!?

The Lord has blessed me with 7 siblings.  Yes, that means there are 8 of us.  And from the oldest (me) to the youngest (Taylor) there is a 23 year age difference. 
Now, not all of my siblings are full blood relation.  My brother John is "full blooded", Jennifer, Jordan, Brianna & Caytlin are "half blooded" and Nathan and Taylor are "step siblings".  What does that all mean?  Basically that we all don't come from the same mother, or father for that matter.  Nathan and Taylor joined the family when my Dad married their Mom. 
What is the point to all of this?  Well, that none of what I just said really makes a difference when it comes to how I love or feel about all 7 of them.  I have a different relationship and love for each of them. Full blood, 1/2 blood or otherwise has nothing to do with it.  They are all my brothers and sisters.  I don't love one more than I love the other.  I feel absolutely blessed to have each of them in my life, as they have all impacted my life in different ways. 
Each one of us is completely different from the other, although there may be personality and apperance simularities among us, we are all very different people. That's what makes our family so unique and special.  And that's what makes me so blessed to have seven brothers & sisters.
Now, Lord knows I miss them terribly.  Sometimes I wish life could be all butterflies and rainbows and that we could all live in the same town, raising up our families together.  But that's not reality, so the time I do get with them is very special and I try to make every minute count.  And I hope they all know just how much I love them.

Pulled Pork BBQ

I made some awesome pulled pork this weekend.  Matt's been asking for it for sometime, so Sunday I made him up a batch.  I didn't use a pork shoulder roast, I used what I had on hand, which was 2 huge pork chops and 4 huge country cut pork "ribs" (whick is actually cut from the shoulder)

The night before I sprinkled all the pork with my rub from my kc rib recipe posted in May, and I let it marinate overnight. The next morning I put it all in the crock pot before we left for church.
When it was to the point of falling apart, about 8 hours, I took it out and "pulled" it apart.
I mixed it with a concoction of store bought sauce, my spice rub, maple syrup and coffee.

1 bottle of BBQ sauce
1/4 cup home made maple syrup
1/4 cup strong coffee
2 tablespoons spice rub

Put syrup and coffee in sauce pan, bring to a boil. Let boil about 5 minutes till it reduces.  Add spice rub and sauce.  Mix with pork.  Serve on hamburger buns or sliced bread.  YUMM!!!

Family Inspiration - 14 July

A good marriage must have its foundation in Jesus Christ in order to experience lasting love, peace and joy.

You are ... fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.
Ephesians 2:19

Family Inspiration - 10 July

There are ways to teach a child of his significance regardless of the shape of his nose or the size of his ears or the efficiency of his mind.  This is the concept of universal human worth intended by our Creator.

Not one sparrow ... can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it ... so don't worry! You are more valuable to him than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29, 30

July 4th Menu

We had a great 4th of July, spent the day at the National Museum of the US Air Force up at Wright-Patterson AFB, them came home and grilled out some yummy eats!!  After a filling dinner we sat on our front lawn and watched our neighbor set off some big daddy fireworks. 

We cooked everything on the grill ....
Lobster Tails, with butter & lemon
BBQ Chicken
Corn on the Cob
Green Salad (not grilled)
Peach & Black Berry Cobbler

Seems like we had something else but I can't remember what it was .... anyway, it was all very yummy. Sorry, I didn't take pictures of our meal this time and I'm not going to post any of the recipes unless requested.

June Book List

Decision Points; George W. Bush.  This is a good book.  I never had much of an opinion about Mr. Bush, but after reading this book, I've learned he is a Christian, loves his family and loves his country.  I've gained much respect for him and would highly recommend this book.

Celebrate The Family; Gary Smalley & John Trent, Ph.D.  Focus on the Family presented this book, it's more like a story and picture book, a nice addition to your coffee table.

Emotional Blackmail; Susan Forward, Ph.D.  This is an interesting read.  I would almost recommend it to everyone I know.  You will see how people in your life use manipulation against you, but also how you use it against others.  Very eye opening.

Lose It for Life; Stephen Arterburn, M.Ed. & Dr. Linda Mintle.  The total solution (spiritual, emotional, physical) for permanent weight loss.  This is a good book for someone that is overweight because of emotional issues, it helps you understand how to work through those issues.

Family Inspiration - 29 June

If we want to see honesty, truthfulness, and unselfishness in our offspring, then these characteristics should be the conscious objectives of our early instructional process.
(Dare to Discipline)

Oh God, thou hast taught me from my youth; and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.
Psalm 71:17

Peach Cobbler

6 cups peeled, sliced "ripe" fresh peaches (you can also use frozen)
3/4 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp corn starch

1 tsp cinnamon 

dash of nutmeg
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
zest of one lemon
1-1/2 cups AP flour
3 tbsp sugar
2 tsp + 1/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp + 1/4 tsp salt

5 tbsp firm butter
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3/4 cup milk
2 tbsp sugar, to sprinkle on top

Heat oven to 400*

In a 2 quart saucepan, mix together peaches and next 6 ingredients.  Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and boils.  Boil and stir 1 minute.  Pour into ungreased 2-quart casserole; keep mixture hot in oven while preparing topping.

In medium bowl, mix flour sugar, baking powder and salt.  Cut in butter, using pastry blender, until mixture looks like fine crumbs.  Mix in pecans. Stir in milk.  Drop dough by spoonfuls onto hot peach mixture.  Sprinkle 2 tablespoons sugar over dough.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown.  Serve warm with sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Father's Day Dinner

I made Matt his dream dinner for Father's Day. 
A 40 oz. Cowboy Rib Eye,
Grilled Shrimp,
Grilled Vidalia Onions & Baby Bella Mushrooms,
Garlic Mashed Potatoes,
and for desert, his favorite Pineapple Upside Down Cake ... Yum Yum!!

If you want recipes, let me know and I will post them.

Family Inspiration - 20 June

The solutions to the struggles of mankind will not be found in human wisdom and insight.

If the Lord doesn't build the house, the builders are working for nothing.
Psalm 127:1

Very Berry Cobbler

I love cobblers, they are probably my favorite dessert. This last weekend I made a cobbler with 4 kinds of fresh berries.  I hope you try it and enjoy!!

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp lemon juice
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
1 cup blackberries
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1-1/2 cups AP flour
3 tbsp sugar
2 tsp + 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp + 1/4 tsp salt
5 tbsp firm butter
3/4 cup milk
2 tbsp sugar, to sprinkle on top

Heat oven to 400*

In a 2 quart saucepan, mix together first 4 ingredients and berries.  Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and boils.  Boil and stir 1 minute.  Pour into ungreased 2-quart casserole; keep mixture hot in oven while preparing topping.

In medium bowl, mix flour sugar, baking powder and salt.  Cut in butter, using pastry blender, until mixture looks like fine crumbs.  Stir in milk.  Drop dough by spoonfuls onto hot berry mixture.  Sprinkle 2 tablespoons sugar over dough.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown.  Serve warm with sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Family Inspiration - 15 June

Christian parents who wish to teach their children to respect God must first teach them to respect themselves.
(Dare to Discipline)

Fathers... raise them with the training and teaching of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4

Family Inspiration - 7 June

The key is to begin very early to instruct your children on the true values of life: love for all mankind, kindness, integrity, trustworthiness, truthfulness, and devotion to God.
(Hide Or Seek p.88)

Those things, which ye have both learned ... and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:9

Family Inspiration - 1 June

A couple that depends on Scripture for solutions to the stresses of living has a distinct advantage over the family with no faith.

Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plan will succeed.
Proverbs 16:3

Maple Pecan Banana Bread

I got a really good deal on very ripe banana's today, so I thought why not make some banana bread.  This is the recipe I came up with.  I received good reviews from the few that tried it, so I hope you enjoy it too.

1-1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1-1/2 cups flour
3 large very ripe bananas, mashed
3/4 cup pecan's chopped
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon maple flavoring (If you don't like maple flavor you can sub with vanilla)

Blend together sugars, butter and eggs.  Add dry ingredients, which have been sifted together.  Add mashed bananas, chopped nuts, vanilla and maple flavor.  Pour into a greased loaf pan.

Bake at 375* for 1 hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Brush top with butter or maple glaze if desired, while loaf is still warm.

Salsa & Shrimp

I also made homemade salsa this weekend, it was soooo yummy.  I'm not going to list the recipe, because I just threw it together.  I can tell you what's in it though. 
After I made the salsa, I took some cooked shrimp and added about 1/2 cup salsa and 2 tbsp ketchup to it, this is one of Matt's favorite dishes.

Ingredients in the salsa are;
tomatoes, onion, fresh garlic, bell pepper, jalapeno, cilantro, S&P, juice of a lime.

Kansas City Barbecued Ribs

We had a great weekend, cooked alot of good food and had alot of fun.  This was by far the best meal of the holiday weekend, top it off with a marshmellow roast and how could you go wrong??

We had Ribs, served with Jessica's Ranch Beans, grilled corn & cabbage cooked on the grill.
All recipes are listed.




Barbecued Ribs
2 - 5lb racks of pork spare ribs
1/4 cup paprika
1/4 cup brown sugar
4 tbsp chili powder
4 tbsp pepper
4 tsp garlic powder
4 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp + 2 tsp salt
Your favorite BBQ sauce ( I used Sweet Baby Ray's Original)

Mix all dry ingredients together to make rub. 
Rub ribs on both sides with mixture making sure to cover entire area, then place on large cookie sheet covered with heavy duty foil.  Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.
Cook ribs in oven, heated to 325* for 2 to 2-1/2 hours on cookies sheets.
After 2 hours start basting with BBQ sauce.
If desired place on grill to finish and let "crust" build.
Rub recipe courtesy of Cook's Country Magazine.









Cabbage Cooked on the Grill
1/2 head of cabbage, cut in two
2 slices good bacon, cut in half
Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper
Place cabbage on sheet of heavy duty foil, sprinkle lightly with olive oil and S&P to taste. Place bacon slices over cabbage.  Wrap in foil and place on grill.  Cook until desired doneness, about 10 minutes.

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Good Sweet Corn, husks removed and washed
Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper

Lightly cover corn with olive oil and sprinkle with S&P to taste.  Grill 5 minutes turning constantly to get an even "char".  (I let the corn sit on top rack while cabbage cooked to stay warm).

Marshmallow Roast!!!

This is the first time the kids have roasted marshmallows, and they had such a good time.

Yum ... Smores .........

Easy Strawberry Pie

The hardest part to making this pie is waiting to eat it .... It took me all of 20 minutes to make this pie and it was soooo yummy.

You will need;
2 lbs strawberries, rinsed and quartered
1 tub of strawberry glaze
1 pre-made pie shell
1 can whipped topping

Bake pie shell according to package instructions.  Let cool. 
Set aside 3 tbsp glaze.
After rinsing berries, dry and quarter, mix with glaze.
When crust is cool, coat bottom with 3 tbsp of glaze, add berry mixture.
Add whipped topping as desired.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
ENJOY!!