A little giveaway!

Click on the picture above to find more great giveaways!

I have been wanting to do a little giveaway for you fantastic girls
and so it seems as if the time is now.
If you will notice in my sidebar there is a huge giveaway going on also. You should really go on over and check it out-it is at Bloggy Giveaways.com .
I thought I would jump in on the action.
This will be open to everyone. Yes, even you girls who do not live in the United States.
I am keeping it small to save on the postage and allow everyone to join in on the fun.
I bought a cute little cookbook that has some of our traditional dishes.
The Bayou Cook Book should give you a little glimpse into Creole cooking.
Next, I purchased an extra C.D from the concert on Saturday night. If you do not know about this, go back one post. It is bluegrass music-so if you are not in to that type of music-well.......
And the group gave out a sticker that the kids might enjoy.

So.
Sign in on the comment section. Leave your email so I can get in contact to get the important info for the winner.
I am taking a little blogging break.
Friday--------- I will draw a winner.
Fun?
I thought so.
Now............go leave a comment.
See you next week.
I won't be posting, but I will probably be doing some visiting.

A good weekend

Well, I told ya'll I go to a small church--here is the evidence.
We might be small ------but we are mighty in heart.
This weekend was a full one at our little church. Friday night we had Fall Fest and a lockin for the teens. Yes, it was an all night affair.
And no, I was not there- this old lady was home in bed. :)
The next night we had a bluegrass band from Alabama come to lift the roof. They are called the Muleskinners. They were incredible! I am not much for the country music stuff-but this was great. I love the way there voices worked together and they could play some music.

The band is made up of two married couples. The two on the ends are married and the two in the middle are married. The women did not play instruments before they came up with the idea for the group. The men had done some singing together at their church. I'll say that is pretty great of the women to take up something for their men. The little one on the right was a match for that huge bass though. Before the concert we were talking to her and when she said she was the bass-Keith thought she was the bass singer. We had a good laugh.

Keith just had to have a picture of us all enjoying the music. Yes, that is me sitting down next to the guy in the orange shirt on the left of the church. Notice one of the guys on the right with a big gray beard? We had a Christian biker ministry that came in for the concert also. They have huge hearts for God and use their bikes and leathers to reach people for God. They stayed over for the service Sunday and we were blessed by their testimonies.

After the concert and fellowship time Keith came and got me from the back and said he wanted to introduce me to someone. When we got out front he began to introduce me to one of the groups members. I told him I had already been introduced-but he stopped me in mid sentence.
He said, No you don't understand. This guys brother and I were best friends when I went to school in Colin, Mississippi years ago. (over 25 years I believe) Not only that, but this guy and I double dated while I was there.
Is that wild or what?
He now lives in Alabama with his wife and children. If it had not been for Robert going to the place in Alabama where he met the group-there would have been no reunion.
From Mississippi, to Alabama and back to Louisiana.
God is cool!

SISTERS BY BLOOD

For awhile now I have wanted a way to express what is in my heart
regarding my blogging sisters.
They are my Sisters--and I love them.
After getting an award from a friend (that she had made herself)- I mentioned that I would love to have one to give out. So as sweet as you please--- she made one for me. I wanted her to use the picture in my blog header, because it speaks of what is in my heart.
Women walking this walk together-- arm in arm.
I told her that if it did not sound too strange that I wanted it to be called
SISTERS BY BLOOD.
This is what she said.

I like the idea of Sisters by Blood. It reminded me of that “blood sister” thing kids use to do where you pricked your finger and then pressed them together with your best friend to show that you are bonded together for life. And really that is what we are—through Jesus bound together for eternity.

How cool is that?
That is really what was in my heart. Sister bound together for eternity!
So-- this is not really an award. You became a member of this sister club when you gave your heart to Christ. And so, if you are a Christian------YOU ARE MY SISTER! I am going to pass this on to women I have gotten to know. Women that by the heart they display through their blogs--show the blood they have been washed in. Blood, that at the cross--sealed our sisterhood for eternity.
We will walk the streets of GOLD arm in arm!
Post this (if you would like) with pride.
Pride in the ONE who gave His blood, so that we would forever be bound together as............ SISTERS!
I love you with the love of our Father.
Thank you for walking this earth with me arm in arm.
I thank my Father upon every remembrance of you

These are your sisters.

If you decide to post this on your blog just let me know in the comment area so that I can come by for a visit. And if you are a sister in Christ......please feel free to take a button
and put it on your blog.

The first one will go to the creator of the button--thank you Jenny. You are a blessing.

Anybody Ready?

Christian Glitter by www.christianglitter.com

The Golden Compass--check it out.

The Golden Compass, is a children's movie that will be coming out in December. I was first put on alert to some important issues involving this movie by Sunny Susan. I was planning on taking Julia to see it- as I usually love movies like this. Who did not like the Chronicles of Narnia? But after reading the review at the Snopes.com site--I am not so sure we will be going to see it.
But, don't act on just my word-- go to this link and check it out for yourself. The thing that really bothered me is the author of the book this movie is based on, is an Atheist. Also they say that at the end of the movie the children kill God. Kind of scary thinking about exposing innocent minds to that.
Please go read, and then if you fill it is legit-------pass it on.

***Update*** Seems as if instead of at the end of the movie the children killing God--this happens at the end of the trilogy the guy wrote. They are trying, by this movie, to get kids interested in reading the book series written by this guy. At the end of the series the children kill God and then mankind can live however they wish.

For Our Children

Edge of Design got me thinking about how maybe we should be doing a little more praying for our kids. She has been doing some great post on some things we should think about. Today is about allowing our kids to vent. It is good check it out.

Some of ya'll don't know the history we have had with our son Michael. He will be moving out at our request at the end of this month. A VERY hard decision for us. He has been heavy on my heart for several years. Now he will be on my mind just as often. Long story. But I have decided to make Friday a day to post something good about and for our children. Edge of Design will be having some great post concerning children-stop by and check her out. And if you would like to join in on Friday--let me know.

Here is a little something that Denise from Shortybears sent me. I thought it was good, and appropriate for me and mine at this time.

Prodigal Son’s Prayer – When The Story Becomes Personal
If you are a parent dealing with a wayward or prodigal child, you may be asking how to pray for him or her. As parents, we grieve over choices our children make. There is great power in a praying parent! And God draws near to the brokenhearted:

Lamentations 2:19 says, “Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children. . .”

You may be a parent who is “pouring out your heart like water” in God’s presence. Praying. Pleading. Begging for God’s infinite mercy to fall on your child at this very moment.

You may have a child who is using drugs or suffering from alcoholism. You may have one who is in prison or juvenile detention. Or you may have a son or daughter who is consistent ly making wrong choices.

Whatever the need, take heart that your Lord and Savior already knows all about it. He hears your heartfelt cry to Him. He wants to mend that broken heart of yours.

When you “pour out your heart like water,” you may feel empty. Emotionally spent. Drained. Psalm 22:14 says, “I am poured out like water and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax, it has melted away within me.”

It’s at that moment that you don’t feel you can cry another tear or pray another word. Don’t worry. The Spirit intercedes on your behalf. The Father knows your need. . .always. And He will answer in His time and in His ways. That we can be certain of, without a doubt.

How do we as Christian parents endure a broken heart in times of great distress such as this?

• Trust – Remember that God is all-knowing, in control, and has a plan and a purpose.
• Keep praying. Be persistent. Develop prayer partners. Keep pouring out your parent’s heart before the Lord.

He will strengthen you. He will mend your broken heart. You never know what He might have in store. It is very possible that there could be a wonderful testimony in the making!

Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heat may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Lord, I lay my heart before You
And I pour out my very soul.
Desperate, You know what I need
As empty before You I go.

Lord, strengthen my weary heart--
Make it strong once again.
For only You can meet this need,
Hold me tight, my Savior Friend.

I know no other way to go
I’m spent beyond my measure.
Fill me Lord, my Life, my Song
Spin my life with peace, Your Treasure.



******Be a little patient with me this next week. Things are going to be a little Topsy turvy. I promise to get caught up soon or as soon as I can.
-------------------------

Nobody likes the expenses of diapers. Many people are starting to get organic baby clothes for their children and saving money on cloth diapers. With all the expences like diaper bags and other baby accessories.

The isolation chamber

It is funny how you read something and and you feel like someone has been watching your life. I read this this morning and had another light bulb moment. THE ISOLATION CHAMBER------so that is where I am . "Dear God, did you loose the key?"

Just kidding.

The Isolation Chamber
TGIF Today God Is First, by Os Hillman

Be still and know that I am God.... - Psalm 46:10

There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of waiting. It is a place in which all past experiences are of no value. It is a time of such stillness that it can disturb the most faithful if we do not understand that He is the one who has brought us to this place for only a season. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities--simply inactivity.

During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is an isolation chamber designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place, especially for a task-driven workplace believer. Our nature cries out, "You must do something," while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this chamber when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything. Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.

Most religious people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot say what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.

Has God brought you to a place of being still? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, the chamber will open soon after.

"He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot say what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others."

HA! I think someone has been picking my brain!
Wonder how long I'll be in this chamber?
I do have to say that I am glad they at least have internet in here. \o/
Love you guys!

Just a little pet peeve

Can I share a pet peeve?
It has to do with my years in the restaurant business
and the training I received during those years.
I have always enjoyed cooking-even as a little
girl I loved it when Mom and Dad gave me an easy bake oven. I have just always loved putting things together and having them look good and taste good. And of course I don't put things together just for my own good--I do like others to participate in my enjoyment. ;)

I spent years training at school, working horrendous hours in fine dinning restaurants in order to perfect my trade. I knew it would be rough when I was accepted into the school. We went through an interview with 5 professionals who basically tried to change our minds and convince us we did not want to do what we thought we wanted to do.
Close to 150 tried to get in the school in New Orleans.
Thirty made it into the three year program- only 6 graduated.
The schooling was not as bad as the long hours (forty mandatory) in the
restaurant of our choice.
We were the grunts, so for the first year--it was rough.
I had not worked at any fast food places in high school- so this was a new world for me.
A rough world. A spiritually dirty world. I fought hard for my place in this world.
I was good. I was not where I was supposed to be spiritually during this time--so I took all the credit for my success.
It was not until I had been in the business for over 7 years and then got out because I was pregnant with Julia--that I finally returned to the Lord. I know now that the success I achieved was because God allowed it an provided for it.

All of the things that were drilled into me during those years of training are still there. I enjoy cooking great tasting things. I enjoy seeing the enjoyment people have when eating something I have fixed. Just to let you know--I don't cook "fine dinning" everyday.
There are things that I know when I am preparing certain dishes. Ways of seasoning that make a bite--- a full taste bud experience. That did not come naturally--it came by training.
Learning how to use different seasoning and how to taste for the seasoning to see if enough of a certain thing was present-that was all a part of the job . Something I would never have gotten if I had decided I knew more than my chef instructors.

Now for the pet peeve.
And let me start by saying this. If you know you have tasted something and you can not abide the flavor--I understand.
I get pretty perturbed when someone has never tasted something and refuses to try it-- because they say they know they will not like it.
Guys, I am not talking about something like worms or a 1000 year old egg.
Just normal stuff put together different than they are used to eating it.
I even say, take one bite and if you don't like it--don't eat anymore.
And they refuse.
Stubborn.
And next time I cook something good I am tempted to tell them they won't like this either.
I know--bad girl. ;)
Now why in the world would I go into all this detail for a simple pet peeve?
I think at times we are this stubborn person with God.
His word says, "Taste and see that God is good".
And yet.........
How many times do we think that maybe we are not sure if we want to "go there" with God.
Maybe what He has planned for us, is not what we had planned. Maybe it is not "all good".
And maybe God enjoys things that only GOD can enjoy. After all we are just human and we like human things. So we pick and choose what we will take from Him.

He says, "It is all good".
And by our actions we say, "Well, I am glad You think so---- but I know it is not for me".
How often by my actions have I told Him I knew better than Him?
Do you think God has any pet peeves?
How about this?
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
Kinda of sounds like He has a big problem with pride?
Maybe the next time something good rolls around He won't try and convince me it is good-
He'll just let it roll right on by.
Maybe He won't push His goodness on me until I, in humble adoration, go back to Him and admit--sometimes I don't trust you God. Sometimes pride blinds my view of your goodness.
And, I am sorry God.

Like a little bird I sit mouth wide open---waiting, waiting to taste and see that God is good.

Birthday and braces

Yesterday was my youngest s birthday. She was very excited about turning 10--a double digit birthday in her words. In our house we have the long standing tradition of getting to pick what will be fixed for your birthday dinner. Last night we had Shrimp pasta with a basil roasted garlic cream, served over thin pasta. Also, we had a little healthy salad and hard rolls.
For her cake this year she wanted a cookie cake. It is not the most beautiful thing--but she loved it. It was actually a brownie/chocolate chip cookie cake. Pour the prepared brownie mix down first and then drop cookie batter by spoonfull onto brownie batter. It was sweet.

It was nice to have everyone in our immediate family there. Yes, Michael even graced us with his presence. In the red is my Mom with her beautiful white hair.

Paw Paw and my Dad enjoyed some conversation about fishing on the river.

Julia loved all the things she got. She even enjoyed the clothes she got. Amazing!

Michael and I grabbed a picture while he was around. You can't see them very well but I wanted to get a picture with my braces because they were coming off the next day.

And yes, I could have waited but here is the close up of the new me. Nothing like and up your nose shot--but my arms are only so long. But be glad I am not posting all the pictures I took.
One picture with my glasses--- which I am having to wear because my eyes are having problems with the mess in the air.

And here is the picture without the glare from the glasses.
I will be going back to the orthodontist in three weeks to pick up my retainer--oh glory! ;(---
till then all I have is a permanent retainer they put on the inside of my bottom teeth.
The first thing I put in my mouth was a piece of sour apple gum.
My lips are still getting used to no metal--but we will survive!
Love you guys.
Off to fix a huge pot of loaded potato soup for church tonight.
I will get caught up on reading posts soon-its been really busy lately.

Please Pray for California

This is an prayer request for our Sunny Susan and Denise over at Edge of Design.
I know there are more out there in California who are concerned about the fires burning.
I got an email from Susan this afternoon. Here it is.

We had to mandatory evacuation yesterday at 330....us the dogs and a few pics and the clothes on our backs...thats it

We are in Orange Co. now in a hotel...so we are safe.....the house...I don't know....

So prayers are appreciated....thanks


So I would like us to step up to the plate and start calling down some rain from God.
We know that there is power in prayer and power in numbers. As you can see some of our blogging sisters live in the effected areas.

After going through the mess after Katrina -I don't want anyone to have that stress and that loss. If you are from this area and would like prayer post your name and we will add you to our list to pray for. We love you. More importantly so does our Father.

Dear God
We are concerned for our family-Your children--and those who will soon come to know you as their Father. I know you know what is going on in California. The smoke from the fires are seen by your eyes. The tears of those who have lost much are held in your hand.
God, I ask that you give wisdom and protection to the men fighting these fires.
God I ask that you would send rain. God that you would open the heavens so that your people would be protected. Bring an end to what man says will only get worse.
Thank you for your loving heart and your tender mercies aimed at your people.
We love you.
We trust in you.
Be our defender.

Are You A David In Saul's Armor?

Last night while responding to an email I began to have some, interesting to me, thoughts.
I have been thinking about how much we should disclose of our stories.
I have actually been blessed in the past when someone has trusted enough to tell me their story and then ask me to pray. This should happen, because we know that the more people praying the more the power of God is aimed at the situation.
As I was typing out some of these thoughts, God started speaking to me. Here is a little bit of the email I was getting ready to send.

I hear you speak of things going on and I think-I have so been there. But when I was there there was no one to talk to. Women need to be allowed to be truthful about who they are.
Sometimes I think maybe I should not be so open about my struggles. But then there may be a woman who is getting ready to go through something similar and she needs to see us make it through.
We are the mighty warriors of God. Maybe right now we are in the armour of Saul. It is to big and it does not fit. The church has put us in this position. Making us wear the garb because it this looks right. But God is getting us ready to step out with nothing but THE ROCK. Is that cool or what? (just so you know-God is speaking to me through this as I type) He is so gently and loving. But sometimes He has to reveal to His warrior that she has been wearing the wrong armor.

I think this time in my life is a time when God is removing the armor that does not fit His child.
There are so many things that we do because it seems right or someone told us that is the way it was to be. Sometimes the things we take on, are not even teachings of the church but of this world. And we don't even realize it because it has been a part of our lives for so long.
Nicki over at Three Girly Glitz has been talking about realizing what lies are going on in your mind. What voice are you listening to?

As God gets His "David" ready to battle "Goliath", He is going to start making us feel the discomfort of the outfit that does not fit. Just like little David, unable to move because of the weight on his legs----unable to see because of the helmet that is too big, we have been in the same position.
How many of us bought the idea that as Christians we should keep our mouths shut about the private pain in our homes?
Or part of living a faithful Christian life is always speaking the positive even when we were dealing with some real negatives?
How about if you are a female your jobs in the church are limited to nursery duty and food service?
Are there any other "pieces of armor" that you have worn in the past that you are now finding out----JUST DON'T FIT?

I think we need to speak out about these things. If we have been set free from something that was not an absolute truth, then others need to know. Although I am not thrilled about this stage in my life, I am excited about what I am going to see on the other side. Lessons learned.
Strengths gained. Lies and sin buried in the sea of forgetfulness.

Will you share a piece of Saul's armor that you have discarded?

Grab one if you got one--this should include about everyone!

YA'LL Bring such light and excitement to my life.
Here is a little love--back at ya!

Well, it is time to share the love. And there are so many of you out there that I love it is a good things we have plenty to go around. We all know that God is the reason there is anything good in us. Because the Bible says that all good things come down from God.
So we don't take credit for the love in our hearts or the good things that show up on our blogs.
That said--I would like to hand out a few hugs.
Hugs to women who pray for me.
Hugs for women who read the stuff that comes out of my head.
Women who encourage me.
And yes, women and men--who just lurk. :)
How about that--and award for just lurking. Doesn't seem quite fair does it?
But------ I am feeling generous today so we will give them a little something.
This first award came to me from Denise over at Shortybears Place. I have enjoyed getting to know her and her sweet heart. She is going through some real struggles and yet--she reaches out and encourages. Love ya girl! If you would like to find out some info about this award go on over and check out this post.
Guys, I just don't have time to link all these sites so please forgive me.
This one is going to......
Little Red Hearts From God.
The job she has and the stories she tells really touch my heart and remind me
how close heaven and God really are.
Love ya girl!

This next on came from my tomorrow girl. Karen over at Karen Ramblings, just stretches my brain. She makes me think about the fact that although my feet are walking this earth- I belong to another homeland.
If you want to find about more about this award you can go on over and check out this blog-Writers Reviews.
You can pick from a variety of award on this site. But since this is the one that I was given this is the one I will pass on.
This one will have to go to Denise over a Shortybears Place. She amazes me with her consistency. She is always looking for things to praise God for. Her journey should inspire us all.
Love ya girl!

This one came from Deborah over at Chocolate and Coffee. I have enjoyed reading about the amazing things God is doing through her and the ministry God has her in. She has a really sweet heart and loves God. It shows in her words. The Community Blogger Award celebrates people who reach out and makes the blogger community a better one.
I don't blog hop often. I can say I have landed on some and quickly and quietly left. But the ones I leave comments on---they make the community better. They lift my heart and I find that I have a connection with them. So girls, if you have ever received a comment from me--this is for you------grab it!

This last one is a sweet one. It also came from Denise over at Shortybears Place. I have met so many great women of God that I truly consider my sisters and good friends. If you have swung with me through the ups and downs of this past year-- and have hung with me still--I consider that a BFF. And if you share the same Savior I do--we will really by BFF's forever. We will walk the streets of Gold together and all these struggles with be over! So this is going to go to all my oldies but goodies.
Dee
'Nise
Deena
Iris
Holly
Nicki
Debra
Susan
Jenny
Karen
Melanie
Halfmoon Girl
Tracy
Linda-Maw Maw
Nettie
And my MOM who reads always---- but rarely comments ;)I am not going to go around and advertise this post. If you come by and have seen your award. Just leave a smile. Love ya'll!!!!!!!!!!!-- and believe me I thank my Daddy God in heaven for you.
\o/

He'll Be The Death Of Me Yet

Kind of a catchy title isn't it? Who is "He"? I'll tell you a little later.

This past week has been a full out rebellion for me. I haven't had one of those in a long time.
But, Honesty is always the best policy.
Confusion, emotional pain and anger had led me down this path.
Could it have been avoided? I think so.
In the body of Christ sometimes I think we pass a message that is not a good thing. In the guise of justing "giving it to the Lord" we sometimes give the impression that you should just roll over and "play" like you are dead. No need to speak of pain, no need to acknowledge frustration, and certainly you better not be angry about what is going on in your life.
And of course if you have ever read the book of Psalms--that is.... sooooooo..... not true.
If you keep stuffing it and not placing it before the throne--you will start to stink.
And thus last week............... I stunketh.
God has been gently calling me. Reminding me that the road He has me on "it's a good thing".
I have felt a little like Elijah running from Jezebel. Out in the dessert wishing I could just die. Not literally of course.
This morning at church was good for my heart.
Before it started- I could tell something was bothering my pastor. His face was not a happy one. Last weeks service was a rough one and it had really bothered him. I don't know if he was wondering if we would be doing battle again or if he was just weighted down with some stuff that had been going on in our body.
He started the service and he welcomed the presence of the Spirit and he rebuked any forces that were present that would try and stop the move of God. As soon as he stopped praying the atmosphere in the room changed. Something broke. The weight lifted. No one could really speak. Our God was present. People began crying.
A major event took place that I can not go into--but God won.
The men gathered at the altar. They laid hands on each other and prayed and cried. It did my heart good. For years we have been praying for the men in our church to rise up. For God to place a fire in their hearts. They are now meeting on Tuesday nights.
I hear their study time is pretty powerful.
There is a move of God amongst our men!
The rest of the service this morning was good. But I had been touched before we even got to it.
I miss the presence of the Lord. I miss being able to go boldly before the throne without shame.
I miss feeling pure and holy. When we harbor sin in our hearts--He does not hear us.
I was, DUH!, harboring this week.
Have situations changed in my life?
Nope.
Is the pain still there?
Yes.
Is the lack of understanding still there?
Yes.
And am I still angry?
No. I was wrong. Remember we are told to be angry and sin not? In my anger at situations- I began to harbor bitterness. That is what happens when anger is not exposed to God.
We put a cap on it and it rots.
So I give up. I gave up my anger and frustration. I exchanged those stinking things for
the presence of my God.
Having listened to my Savior, I crawl back into my coffin. My pastor says, You can't hurt a dead person and you can't anger a dead person.
So today I again become one of the walking dead. :)

I will continue with my God--and yes, one day....He'll be the final death of me yet.
Care to join me?
Let's join Paul and die daily.

The Fair and a little family history

Today Paw Paw and I went on a little field trip to Franklinton. After visiting the nursing home we got a little lunch and then went to the fair. Now if you walk the main you will hear someone saying, Welcome to the largest free fair in the South. Or something of that sort. It had been awhile since Paw Paw had been-and since he has family connections to this place it was time for a visit.

I just had to get a picture of this. See the man walking with something thrown over his shoulder?
It is the skull and polished horns off some sort steer I think. Hmmmm-just wondering where it is going to end up? Only in the south.

These guys are someones prized possession. I almost entered a raffle for 1/2 a cow. But I think our freezer will be full pretty soon with deer. So I had to leave my half for some one else. ;)

Next, the antique tractors. Paw Paw has one that I think might fit in just fine with these.
And it is still working!

Here is one of the booths selling our traditional food in the south. Notice one of the items is GATOR sausage on a stick. Hmmm...no thank you. But the rest looks great. And I can pretty much guar-an-tee, it taste great too.

What is in the pot? Ever had fried pork skins? Maybe that is a southern "thang" too.
This is how they did them in the olden days.
They do taste good by the way--sure to clog your veins!

Now for the family history part. Our fair has a little section called Mile Branch. It is filled with old homes that have been donated by families. Above is a little church. Inside is a dirt floor and pews made from logs that have been split. Imagine sitting on that for an hour or more. Ouch!
Not to mention the heat and the clothes they used to wear. I would say most of these places are from the mid to late 1800's.

The picture above is the Sylvest House. My father in laws family was raised here. It was on property in Franklinton until it was donated to the fair for the village. Each year my sister in law dresses in period clothes and sits in the front room (pictures following) and welcomes those coming through.

One the front porch of the house there was a little band playing hymns.Their voices were harmonizing and the breeze was blowing--it was beautiful. I was out of my house, and singing along to the good ole songs --it was a Soul filling experience.

See the above dress? It is a 97 years old wedding dress. One of the grand daughters wanted to make a sign for it-- so if you enlarge the picture you can see the "lovely" sign. :)
It is a beautiful dress and it is in pristine condition.

The picture above is Paw Paw, my sister in law and Paw Paws first cousin. This was the first time I had seen Paw Paw smile and have a good time in a long time.
He used to dress and sit up at the Sylvest house with both my first mother in law and his new wife. His first wife passed away when I was expecting our son.

And of course I could not end this post without proof that I was there. I was sitting next to a fan so my hair was a little wind blown. Notice the picture above the fireplace? That is a picture of Paw Paws grandparents. He is 92----the picture is pretty old.
Thank you for following us along on our field trip. :)
Have a great weekend.
Thank you guys for walking through this rough week with me.
You are my sisters and I love you.

Recall

With all the recalls going on lately -and yes, the one above is a little rough ;)-but I thought we could use info on a recall that is good. I found the picture above at a site called Office Spam.

I have been blog hopping again. Said I was not going to do it- because I have a hard enough time keeping up with the girls I have. But I did it, and yes, I have found another girl. You will find her over at Organizational Determination. I found this on her side bar and I loved it. You may have seen it before-but it is new to me. I pray you are having a great day.

We have had a cool front come through and it is a beautiful day. God is close. Listen to His call to you through the beauty of what He has created for us.

RECALLED!

The Maker of all human beings is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart. This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect has been technically termed "Subsequential Internal Non-Morality," or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.

Some other symptoms include:
1. Loss of direction
2. Foul vocal emissions
3. Amnesia of origin
4. Lack of peace and joy
5. Selfish or violent behavior
6. Depression or confusion in the mental Component
7. Fearfulness
8. Idolatry
9. Rebellion

The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this SIN defect. The Repair Technician, Jesus, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.

The number to call for repair in all areas is:
P-R-A-Y-E-R.

Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Gentleness
9. Self control


Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Believers' Instructions Before Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.

WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded.

DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility.

Thank you for your attention!
GOD

Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by "kneemail".

Practice Mindfulness

One of my sweet ladies from my church gave me a little book called, "101 ways to Relax and Reduce Stress". Years ago she had spent time taking care of an elderly family member and she knew the road I would be traveling. It has some great ideas.
Things like, keeping lavender oil in your medicine cabinet--because it is great for headaches and reduces stress. Take deep long breaths-shallow, short breaths create tension.

The one that I decided to share was titled-

Discover the Sacred in the Ordinary

"Just and ordinary Day," you sigh. Nothing special, merely commonplace. Take another look. Yes, it's the same sun that shines every day, but it is bright with God's love and care. That coffee or tea you're drinking took may hands and much human ingenuity to land in your morning cup.
Go outside and enjoy the weather. Rain or shine, the blessings fall on everyone--the good and the bad alike. Spirituality is not something for Sundays only, and you don't need to lock God in a cathedral. This beautiful, heartbreaking, wonderful world is and ongoing love letter from God. Read it!

Discover

I love my morning coffee. The only thing that would make it better would be to be sitting at the window above. I hope those people know how blessed they are.
Back to the coffee. :)
The thought that someone planted it and that God took the time to care for its growth-that makes me smile. He watched it giving it sun and rain. Keeping little pesky bugs away from my beans. That makes me smile too. I can almost hear Him say to some little bug, Nope you can't have that one-its for Sharon.
Kind of a cool thought.
And then some man or woman ,who was not being paid what I feel my coffee is worth, stood out in the heat and gathered the crop.
Add to that my coffee cup, coffee maker, and the cow who made my half and half---wow!
Thank you God!
I think maybe I will savor my cup tomorrow morning just a tad more.
------------------

Earth's crammed with heaven,
and every common bush afire with God.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Almost forgot-- this little book was written by Candy Paull

More Southern Fare

This for Melanie over at MelanieJoy. She mentioned one time about a good recipes for fish and here it is.
My son has been doing some fishing and last night he caught a Bull Red.
He took care of all the yucky details and then asked me to fillet it. Can't you just tell I am thrilled? But it was nice to have some nice big fillets to work with-so I won't complain.
I thought you might like to see the finished product.
Here is what went into the dish and how it was put together.
I sprayed the pan and then I started layering on the flavor.
First-and always first-salt and pepper. Next a little basil pesto. If you don't like to make pesto or you don't know how you can get this at the grocery store. After you rub that on, sprinkle on a little roasted garlic. If you don't have this-- then you can use regular chopped garlic. If you have a little lemon seasoning for things like seafood or chicken you can use some of it on the fish. If not then use a little lemon juice. But you might want to put it on before the salt and pepper. For those of ya'll in the south you will know what crab boil is. For those of you not fortunate enough to have this--you are missing out. It is what gives all our boiled seafood its Louisiana flavor. It is great. I put a couple of drops on the fish and then a little in the water in the bottom of the pan along with a little lemon juice. Then of course you need a pat of butter on top of each fish.
Place them in the oven on about 375-until your fish is flaky.
This will work great on a variety of fish.

Now Melanie.............. you have no excuse!
If you really want to wow them-sautee some shrimp in a little butter and garlic, with salt and pepper, of course, and drape them across the finished fish.
Now if you want some suggestions for a nice sauce for the shrimp--just ask.
Serve this with some roasted garlic mashed potatoes and a fresh salad and of course some good bread and you will have friends for life. :)

An Old Love

I ran into an old love today.
Our eyes met from across the room, and as I waited
to see if my heart would miss a beat, he rushed to grasp my hand.
His eyes looked deep into mine searching for a trace of warmth. For a moment my
mind drifted back to rainy afternoons spent arm in arm, and then-slowly- I withdrew
my hand as coldness flooded over me.
At first a slight question in his eyes- but then as strong arms wrapped themselves
around me from behind, a glint of coldness as he turned to leave.
Then, and only then did my heart skip a beat, but only for my true love- Jesus the Nazarene.

---------------------------------------

Loves can come in various forms,
and with them they all bring the opportunity for disconnection from Christ.
The longer we lay in bed with this
world, the stronger the emotional ties become.
Beware, take your Love with you,
because you never know when the loves of this world will appear,
from across the room.

I wrote this a few years ago during the heat of a struggle to obey God.
God won.
I am in a struggle again. Old loves have crept back into the pictures. Kind of like the vultures over a dying animal. I thought these things were over. I want life to change. I am asking for God to move us on from this time in our life. I am pitching a fit and He is standing across the room tapping His foot with Arms crossed. I am tired of this. And no I don't want Him to stop the process and have to start all over again . But , jesum petes--when will this be over?
I know I am sounding a little rebellious--I am rebellious at the moment.
Kind of like your kid when they keep asking WHY and you say, BECAUSE.
I want to know why.
I know the answers. We are not promised an easy road. I am not asking for a bed of roses.
But when pain and frustration meet they cloud my eyes.
Pray that I will have a tender heart and a greater vision for the big picture.
Sorry for venting. But we are supposed to confess our sin one to the other--confessing a wayward heart. :(

An the results are in!

If you haven't read my last post you might want to go back and read.
It's short.
This morning I opened the lid of my crock pot and found sinking peanuts.

That is a good thing.
I popped open one and found that the process had worked.
So for over nite boiled peanuts turn your crock pot on low. I turned them on around 8 last night and turned them off this morning around 7.
They are just the way they should be.
Drain the liquid and let them cool. Of course they are great while hot-so try them before they cool.


If you like them hot you can pop them in the microwave later.
Also make sure you keep them in the frig in a sealed container.
I am now doing a smaller batch with some extra seasoning--a little mesquite.

I'll let you know how these come out.

Food from the South

I have been a little on the quiet side today- so I thought that I would show you
what I have been up to.
I did my weekly Walmart run today and while I was there
I picked up something that my guys like.
Peanuts.
But not just any type of peanuts-raw peanuts. And why would someone want to buy raw peanuts? To make boiled peanuts of course.
I am not sure if this is something that we enjoy just in the South-but they are good.
And you should not keep a good thing to yourself.
They are very easy to make.
They take awhile to cook so I am starting them tonight. Tomorrow I will let you know how they come out. This time (new to me) I am cooking them over night in my Crockpot.
And for your viewing pleasure----some pictures!


Boiled Peanuts

First-- rinse the peanuts till the water is clear.


Peanuts are sold by the pound and you need one pound or 1 1/2 quarts.
Use a 1/2 cup of salt per pound.
You will want to do more than one pound because they go fast
and you can store them in the frig.
Then add 2 or 3 quarts of water.

Put all the combined ingredients in your Crockpot and turn it on high.

Cover the peanuts and cook 5 to 7 hours. Replace water if needed.
Cook peanuts should not be crunchy on the inside.


I will let you know tomorrow how they turn out.
And now that blogger is finally working I will click publish before it has a tantrum again.