~Pioneer Woman at Heart ~

Vintage Jewelry ~ Cooking in Canning Jars ~ Thrift Store Finds

2012-02-28T15:04:00.000-08:00

During our antique mall visit, I also purchased this vintage necklace. It's handmade with beads. Right now I'm trying to locate a few of the darker red beads to make matching earrings for it, and possibly a bracelet. I love wearing vintage jewelry when I can.

A closer view. The sun was shining, so I took a better photo after taking the first.

The vintage towel behind the necklace was also a good find. I will most likely use it for a hand towel in my master bathroom.

(before)

(after)

I have been wanting to try this recipe, and finally did. They are Individual Brussels Sprout and Potato Frittatas. The recipe is from Eating Well. Mom gave me some old magazines and this was in one of them.

I did not have 10 oz. ramekins that the recipe called for. I simply adjusted the recipe using my farm fresh eggs and used 1/2 pint, wide mouth canning jars. I love this recipe. I am so ready to plant more brussels sprouts, potatoes, dry more herbs and use goat's milk for this. You can add about any vegetable to these too. Yum!

I donated items to a local thrift store that benefits children. I took the time to look around and brought these fun finds home with me:

A vintage dish towel ~ $.69

A vintage crocheted doily ~ $.50

Another dish towel ~ $.50

A ceramic bowl made in California ~ $2.00

2 placements with camper pattern ~ $1.00 total

Retro stapler that works ~ $1.00

3 books

Stephen King's "On Writing" ~ $3.00

A bit high, but anything sold used on-line has about $3.99 shipping anyway.

"Walking West" a Pioneer story ~ $.50

Antique book on Sentence and Theme ~ $1.00

What a fun time I had, and now we have more towels for the house and for camping.

I also bought 2 glass bowls for $.25 each for the cats. I don't like to buy paper plates all the time and it's more eco-friendly. They are made in the U.S. also.

I guess I better start "spring" cleaning the closets, so I have another reason to visit the store again soon - ha ha ha!

Joey is in Heaven

2012-02-27T14:26:00.001-08:00

A very sad evening here today.

Our oldest dog alerted my 15 year-old daughter that a cat was inside the tote. We have two totes on their sides, filled with dry bedding for the barn cats to keep warm.

When my daughter checked the tote, she found Joey. He was already gone.

Most likely he was hit by a car. He walked himself to the house and went into the tote. He rested there until he went to Heaven.

There is a blog that was written about him: The Little Orange Cat the Could

Joey was loved and will be greatly missed.

We love you Joey!

Cleaning, Cooling Down, and Crafting

2012-02-27T05:41:00.001-08:00

Mondays.....the day of my all-out house cleaning. Yay! A fresh start to the week and a freshly cleaned home. My clotheslines will be working over time today. The sun is shining and blessing us with peace of mind.

I look forward to sipping hot tea, and relaxing with some crocheting....or a good book.

Excerpts from A Journal Junkie

2012-02-26T13:40:00.000-08:00

from the homesteading journal. . .

We are trying to buy USA made items when we do need to shop. I actually found a clipboard at Wal-mart that states it's made in the USA.

We bought chicken wire to start a much needed outdoor coop off the "chicken" barn.

Split wood again, but the weather is not too cold here.

We are bartering service work on our broken down van, with home canned goods again. The van was delivered, so I need to get busy so I have canned jelly to barter.

from the crafting journal . . .

I finished the new dishcloth pattern, and actually put another one in my store. I have already started a third one. I'm finishing up another knitted block for the block blanket, and have decided to put my tatting aside until the blanket is finished.

Two projects "in progress"

I started decoupaging another tea bag box, and this time I'm using old book pages. The handle is recycled oxygen tubing. I'll be posting that later on my S.C.R.A.P. blog.

I recently discovered it's much easier to have a clip board for my knitting pattern, so I bought a very inexpensive clipboard. I painted it. Now I am decoupaging paper with a rose pattern on it. I will be placing my pattern in a plastic page protector, slipping in a note pad, and attaching a pen. Then I can take my basket weaving pattern, for my knitted block blanket, anywhere in the truck, van or car. I can keep track of rows, and not get behind in my work any more. I also have a fun, jazzed up, clip board for it. I may have to make a few more of these for other projects.

from my personal journal . . .

Hubby and I headed out for goat feed over the weekend. We had trouble finding the right brand in stock, and had a bag being held in another town. We had no time limitations, so we stopped at a brand new gun store and browsed. The store was packed with people too.

Next, hubby surprised me by taking me to a very large antique store, that we had not been too in about four years. We had so much fun walking around and browsing.

I did more than browse too. I was so excited to find this lipstick holder that I just had to buy it. I had no idea they existed until another farmgirl shared photos of the ones she has found.

Underneath the lipstick holder is a dish towel I found, that has tatting as the edging - $3.00. What a deal. What great finds, and useful too.

I bought his $5.00 vintage chopper also. Why? Well, it's a perfect container to hold elastic hair bands in my vintage decorated master bathroom.

I cleaned it up and when the chopper handle is lifted up, it brings up hair bands on the bottom piece. I'd rather buy USA made for every day use, and this chopper was made by the Lorraine Manufacturing Company in New York City. According to my research, they started up around 1868. What fun it was to find this out after I got home.

I had a very fun day, and hope to do that again in a few years.

from my gratitude journal. . .

Today I am thankful for:

~ being able to pay off one dentist bill
~ getting a day away and relaxing
~ the beautiful sunshine we are having
~ having enough firewood
~ tea
~ my outdoor clothesline
~ books
~ once again, I am thankful for pen and paper
~ God's Promises
~ slippers

Saving Money ~ Thrift Stores

2012-02-23T04:07:00.000-08:00

Typically I like to take one day "off" and do something fun. However, my hubby called from work and was having problems with his eyes. He was using his last pair of contacts and they were causing problems. He called to say he was heading home and asked if I would join him - road trip.

Here are the fun thrift store finds from yesterday. . .

I found 5 vintage jello molds ($.35), a top 30's Country Hits record album ($.25), and a pack of playing cards still in their original package ($.25). My plan was to make pin cushions with the jello molds, however, they are so nice (and a good size) that I may even use them in the kitchen. We plan to play the album, and it even has Johnny Cash on it. The playing cards are for game night and camping. If we ever lose any, I can always re-purpose them too. They have a fun flower pattern on them.

I could not resist buying this bag of scrap ribbons ($1.00). Underneath the bag are 3 pillow cases ($.50) with country fabric patterns. I plan to re-purpose the pillow cases. The cost of fabric in craft stores these days, can cost too much. I have already started a S.C.R.A.P. project using the ribbon. Those will be posted as soon as they are finished.

Winter Weather ~ Black Bean Fudge Cakes

2012-02-22T04:20:00.000-08:00

Winter has been the strangest ever this year. On Tuesday, we had rain, then snow, then rain again, then snow again, then rain and temperatures up to the 40's.

The house was still a bit chilly, so I baked two snacks for the family. One, I baked Black bean Fudge Cakes (only in an 8 x 8 inch pan), and another batch of Zucchini Muffins. Yum! The oven warmed up the kitchen, and the Black Bean Fudge Cake was pretty good. I love recipes from Clean Eating magazine. I can use my raw honey, home canned applesauce and this eliminated the cost of flour.

The day before, I cooked up a large bag of dry black beans, so I reserved some for my cake. A perfect way to keep "desserts" healthy around here (and low cost).

Although, I can say the Black Bean Fudge "bars" were not the kids favorite. They gobbled up the Zucchini muffins first.

Jicama Hash Browns

2012-02-19T06:34:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning breakfast consisted of whole wheat blueberry pancakes with homemade honey syrup, sausage and a side of Jicama hash browns.

We have never tried Jicama, and know that it's also called a "Mexican Potato."

(midway through cooking)

I peeled it, shredded it, and fried it. First I diced an onion and cooked it in canola oil, then add the shredded Jicama with salt and pepper.

It is sweet. Not what I was expecting, but pretty good anyway. It contains no fat and is very low in carbs. Next time I will add some garden green peppers to the onion.

Excerpts from a Journal Junkie

2012-02-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

from my crafting Journal. . .

...started a new pattern for dishcloths that use #10 cotton threads.

from my Gratitude Journal. . .

Today I am Thankful for:

~the vintage tablecloths that I have been able to buy (and use) over the years

~for sound and to be able to hear

~for written devotional books

~for friends who offer up prayers

~for our relatives who allow us to borrow their pop-up camper

from the homesteading journal . . .

...started to map out the garden and set dates for starting seeds inside

...collected toothpaste recipes to try

...chickens are still not laying as many eggs, despite warmer weather and sunshine

...collecting meatless recipes to encourage more vegetables in our diet

...tried buffalo meat (organically raised) in our crock pot chili and loved it

....I am still hanging laundry outside

It's even drying completely this winter since we are having a milder season. The wind and sun were perfect for drying laundry. Last year I had to shovel my way out to the line and shovel a walkway along the line.

....planning our camping trips already

I'm Hooked

2012-02-17T03:23:00.000-08:00

In a transaction of passing from one to another, I was finally given a bag of "goodies" from my sister-in-law. It contained crafting items, items to re-purpose, and best of all, a basket of "Stress Relief" items from Bath and Body.

The eucalyptus/spearmint aroma is divine. I now have shower wash, lotion and pillow spritz. Oh boy! I'm loving this!

Funny how things work out too. I'm recycling everything the lotions came in too - ribbon, stuffing, cardboard, tag and basket.

Even the bag that she sent everything in, came to good use. Two cats are using the large paper bag as entertainment. One jumped in it, then the next minute, the other partner in crime, had the bag on it's side. He was darting in and out, just having a ball with it.

Vintage Hankies ~ Crochet Projects Continue

2012-02-16T04:32:00.000-08:00

I'm sharing some very special hankies that belonged to my mother. I am not sure what I will do with them yet. I know for one idea, I will be using them to decorate around the house and possibly take some camping.

Wednesday I took my crocheting on the road. To the dentist specifically.

While digging through my closet these past few weeks, I discovered plastic rings I had gotten from a SCRAP store (before it closed). I was able to get bags of items for a few dollars, so these rings cost me practically nothing. This pattern required a 1 1/8 inch ring, and I have 3 rings that size. I love this snowflake Christmas ornament so much, I may have to go out in search of more rings (or something to recycle) to make more of these.

I've also finished 6 towel ring holders with leftover yarn. I may make more of these for gifting ,and add a hand embroidered towel with it. Not quite sure yet.

Handmade Note Cards ~ Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

My Mom loves the heart cards I made for her a few years ago. She is running low, and I am sharing a few I have made for her (made from scrap wallpaper):

I better get back to work....I'm getting many "projects" finished.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Heating the House ~ $25.00 Truck Load of Wood ~ Wig Party

2012-02-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

Where can you find someone willing to sell you a truck load of wood for $25.00? It's rare indeed. Thankfully, my son can lift these heavy pieces and put them on the wood splitter for me to split. He unloaded the truck too. Most of the wood was in stump pieces about 3 feet wide, the kind that no person really wants to mess with. We, on the other hand, were very thankful to God for this wood. Regardless of size. We spent the afternoon splitting about half of it, until we needed to go inside and thaw out our finger tips.

Now, if we could just find wood pellets. Clerks were giving my husband a weird look when he asked if they had any. So far, we are not finding them. One store even told us they are not ordering any more this season.

This morning, we are off on a venture, to locate a store that has some. Thankfully, we can call ahead, but even that isn't always accurate. One time we called, they said yes we have them. I arrived to find zero. The person on the phone had checked my question by looking them up on the store computer, and not looking on the shelf. They had a truck load, but it was outside, and not unloaded. I made a point that time, to let them know I drove 25 minutes each way, based on their employee's answer. I was sick that day too, and had just been to the doctor. I wasn't a pleasant customer that day.

Last night my 10 year-old wanted the night to be a "Wig party." We dug through our costume box and put on wigs. Even "Tig" wore a wig:

And Jesse:

Ha ha ha ha! Well...they wore them long enough to snap a few pictures anyway.

Braided Rag Rug, Heart Wall Paper Note Cards and More Projects

2012-02-11T06:43:00.000-08:00

We weren't really snowed in yesterday, but we did get snow. It was perfect for sitting down in front of the wood burning stove, and to start braiding a rag rug.

This is more difficult than I thought. I remember watching repeats of Little House on the Prairie, where Caroline is sitting in a rocking chair braiding rags into a rug.

In the above picture I had rag balls that are from pillow cases and an old fabric shower curtain. It was cumbersome to braid from these rag balls, while sitting in a chair. I sat down on the floor, and it worked much easier. Although, I did have to fight off three licking dogs who thought I was sitting on the floor for their playtime.

It was also a good time to crochet my 10 year-old a pair of mittens she's been begging for. I have never crocheted a pair of mittens and I think I did pretty good. The only part that stumped me was the thumb. I know I made mistakes on that part, but will have to practice them a few more times to get it right.

I love snow on a sunny day also. Especially looking out at it, untouched and sparkling in the sunlight. Friday was a good day for working a small amount of time on several unfinished projects.

I'm still knitting blocks with the basket weave pattern.

I'm working on crocheting another granny square bookmark. This one has more edging on it.

It's a good time today (Saturday) to start on making Wall paper Heart Note Cards for my mother. I made her these several years ago, and she loves them. To see more styles I made you can visit S.C.R.A.P.

Of course, before I can start any projects like these, I need to help split wood (after hubby fixes the chain saw), muck the chicken coops, collect eggs, and finish indoor chores.

Cake Decorating ~ Birthday Cupcakes ~ Snow

2012-02-10T04:55:00.000-08:00

My girls inherited cake decorating supplies from my mother, and they are definitely putting them to use. My 15 year-old daughter surprised her older sister (on her 18th birthday) with a "birthday" cupcake at school yesterday.

I can't believe how well her flowers came out. She used the tip that is used to make roses, and did an excellent job.

While working out with hubby this morning, we saw on the news that we are to get 1-2 inches of snow starting today. I'm tickled we are finally getting snow. The goats and the chickens may not like it, but I know a few of the dogs will be acting like kids later today. When it snows (our black lab especially) pretends to have the need to go do her business, but really she just wants to go play in the snow. Just like a kid.

Last night I was caught red-handed. I was flipping through pattern books and attempting to crochet yet another "new" project, when I was caught. My 10 year-old said to me, "Uh, Mom? Why aren't you crocheting my mittens yet?"

Guess what I'm doing today? Yep....crocheting mittens.

Recycled Dish Scrubbie ~ More Freezer Baking

2012-02-09T04:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Mooberry Farm Homesteading Journal, I have found another way to utilize my plastic net bags from my lemons, and other fruits and vegetables (vs. cutting the bags and crocheting the bags together). For directions visit: Make an Onion Bag Dish Scrubby.

Although, for the one above in the photo, I simply crocheted directly into the lemon bag. You can also fill these types of net bags with food for birds. For more ideas visit S.C.R.A.P. Blogspot.

Scrubbie Update: I just washed dishes with it. Works as good as my other scrubbies I made:

This one (the green one) last a long time. I crocheted a rectangle of cotton yarn for the other side. I may do this also for the new scrubbies that are made from mesh bags.

And thanks to Candy again at Lazy J Bar C Farm, I pulled a container of my frozen pumpkin puree and made her Pumpkin Spice Muffins. I have enough of my puree to make another batch. I love these recipes, because they bake 18 vs. 12 and in our large family, more is better. The family gobbled these up too. They are light and I love how they come off the paper liner completely. I've made many muffins over the years, and some do stick to the liners.

And....despite all this baking, I have now lost 5.4 pounds. Yay!

Fancy Farmgirl Soap Dish ~ More Freezer Cooking

2012-02-08T03:29:00.000-08:00

I visited a small thrift store yesterday and found a cute dish to use for our soap dish on the bathtub. We haven't had one for the soap, and this dish was only $2.00. Although I think thrift store prices are getting to high to be called "thrift" stores, I bought it anyway.

I also came home with 2 hat boxes. Both are all dark blue and stained. I plan to cover them with my scrap wallpaper or paint them. I guess I just added another project to my ever growing project list (ha ha ha!). I (yes I picked up more) also brought home a clipboard I plan to paint and possibly decoupage.

Yesterday I baked the family a Quick and Healthy Pasta Carbonara. I tweeked the recipe, and cooked up fresh bell peppers, onions, garlic and mushrooms. Instead of frozen mixed vegetables, I used frozen broccoli that came from the garden. As for the pasta, I used a combination of organic spinach fettuccine and whole wheat linguine. There isn't much leftover either. They chowed it down.

The weather here is getting colder, and we are running out of wood. It looks like my son and I will be firing up the chain saw. I also need more wood pellets for the corn burner. Even the price on wood pellets have gone up from $3.50/bag to $4.98/bag and at other stores $5.00/bag.

Our electric bill went up about $30.00 from last month, so I need to do a re-check and see where it's coming from. I'll be looking over the bill and checking to see if they raised their rates too.

Funny Goats ~ Beautiful Sunshine ~ Progressing Projects

2012-02-06T05:33:00.000-08:00

This is Peanut. She's munching away on Collard Greens. For more updates on our goats, and more photos, visit my 15 year-old daughter's blog at: Life as a Teen Farmgirl. She is the "goat keeper" here and has reminded me that Peanut is due to have her babies (hopefully two this time) at the end of March.

The sunshine today is in full force. It sure is helping me set my mood for a full day of house cleaning. Thank you God for this beautiful sunshine!

It's another great day for drying my laundry outdoors again.

I am currently working on a few dishcloths and washcloths that have been sitting in tote bags, and about half-way finished. I found a few more lingering in my closet.

I'm not sure what projects I'll finish next. Perhaps my tatted hankie.

I have to share one last thought today. Yesterday, we baked another batch of Candy's Zucchini Muffins (adding chocolate chips) and took them to my 12 year-old's first recital. She insisted on baking something else, but I had zucchini thawed already, and it needed to be eaten. We took all 18 muffins to the recital and did not bring any home. They were a huge success and everyone commented on how good they were.

Enjoy your Monday. For me it's a "clean" start to my week.

It Only Took Me a Year ~ More Freezer Cooking

2012-02-05T06:33:00.000-08:00

I finally finished my sherbet ripple afghan. It only took me a year to finish it. Why? Well, I have a large family and there are always interruptions and requests and needs and chores. And then there is me. I tend to put a project to the side, and actually start another one. Yikes! I finished other projects, but they are gifts for Christmas and I can't spoil the surprise.

Today the fog is thick. Once again the weather is strange . That's why the photo is not filled with sunshine.

This was Saturday. We finally got more snow, but by the afternoon, we once again had a muddy mess.

This is Sunday morning - foggy and warm.

I found another way to get my family to eat collards. I pulled a bag of garden tomatoes from my freezer and made this stew. I found the recipes on-line: Black Eyed Pea Stew with Collard Greens and Potatoes.

I like this recipe, not only for it's healthy ingredients, but that I can make this completely myself. The broth can be homemade, the black eyed peas can be grown, the collard greens, tomatoes and potatoes can all be grown. Despite this recipe not having a lot of herbs and spices, it tasted pretty good.

I also baked the family another new recipe: Halibut & Black Bean Burrito Casserole. I could not find Halibut in our stores, so I used Mahi Mahi. These were very good too. I did cook my own organic brown rice for this, and baked up a pot of black beans (vs. canned beans). I did not make my own tortillas, but that is a future goal for me. These were gone before I could take a photograph of them.

Freezer Cooking ~ Zucchini Muffins

2012-02-03T03:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the "budget" baking mix, and Candy's recipes at Lazy J Bar C Farm, we made a batch of Zucchini muffins. I tossed in some chocolate chips and the family chowed these down. I'm already thawing more frozen zucchini for another batch.

While I was at it, I also pulled some frozen pumpkin puree for some more baking.

I was out with hubby the other day and read this saying on a small sign:

Good Moms have sticky floors, dirty ovens and happy kids!

Love that saying!

Trouble with Hay ~ Learning from Magazines

2012-02-02T03:14:00.000-08:00

Our last hay provider has told us that "it's just not worth the hassle" when we asked why he was not going to grow it next year.

Each year we locate hay, we run into this. We will most likely have to grow it ourselves in the near future.

For now, we need to save money and repair one barn roof, and buy up what he has left, and store it up in a loft. Prices have gone up to $3.00/bale, and straw up to $2.50/bale.

While walking on the treadmill, I actually read a magazine. I thought I had purchased "Backwoods Home" but brought home "Back Home" magazine.

There was a lot of information packed into that magazine. I learned that witch hazel can be used to help dry up poison ivy, I learned tips on raising a milk cow and drinking raw milk, I learned tips on raising beef, and so much more.

Grilling Out ~ Crocheted Bookmark ~ Honey Syrup Recipe

2012-02-01T05:03:00.000-08:00

We've been having wonderful weather that is perfect for drying clothes outside. What a strange winter this is. We even grilled out last night.

A few years ago, I purchased a large bag of items at the Goodwill. I am finally now sorting it out and untangling the mess. However, I found some "goodies" in the bottom of the bag.

I found tatting thread! After I took this photograph, I found two more in different colors. I'm so excited!

With some of the cotton crochet thread in my bag from the thrift store, I crocheted myself a fun granny square bookmark. I still need to weave in my ends, but I love it. I am practicing a few patterns before I put a few more in my store.

Honey Syrup is a great substitute for store bought syrup. I saw that the recipe was requested, and here is the recipe: I made a simple syrup of equal parts of water and sugar. I heated it until it dissolved, then added an equal amount of honey. I heated until the syrup was the thickness I wanted and put leftovers in a canning jar. For my large family we used 2/3 cup of each ingredient, but you could easily cut it in half and use 1/3 cup for each ingredient.

As for the Monster Cookies, I have several recipes for them. For the ones I posted about, I used a baking mix and Candy's recipe on her blog. Here are the links:

Baking Mix Recipe: http://lazyjbarcfarm.blogspot.com/2011/05/baking-mix.html

Monster Cookies: http://lazyjbarcfarm.blogspot.com/2011/11/monster-cookies.html

Excerpts from a Journal Junkie

2012-01-31T04:35:00.000-08:00

from the Homesteading Journal. . .

We stocked up another truck load of hay for the goats. Speaking of goats, my 15 year-old said she could feel Peanut's baby kick. She is due to kid in about May.

(sorry for the bad photo - bad lighting)

I am trying my first batch of "budget" baking mix and we made Monster cookies. They were pretty good too.

I've found another way to add kale to our meals - mix it in with garlic mashed potatoes. Note to self - plant more Kale in the garden this year.

I've also been looking for ways to utilize our stocked up blueberries and ricotta cheese. Both are future goals for us - produce enough home grown, chemical free blueberries to stock up, and make homemade ricotta cheese from our own raw milk. I've been adding both ingredients to pancakes and topping with a homemade honey syrup. Every time I bought a bottle of pancake syrup (when real Maple syrup was too expensive), I would cringe. To my surprise, the homemade honey syrup is delicious, healthy, affordable, and utilizes our raw honey we purchase locally. Raising our own honey bees is on our future goal list also.

The kids cleaned their room, and one decided she did not want this pink vintage suitcase anymore.

I claimed it as mine. It's too small to really pack clothes for a trip, but I could use it to store books or games for camping trips. Possibly use it to store craft supplies. Not sure yet.

My son invested in a charger to charge AA rechargeable batteries. Although electric, it should save us money on batteries when we need them.

We recently found out that we can dump our wood stove ashes directly to our garden. We've been adding some to the compost, so it makes sense, and easier too.

from the craft journal. . .

(before framing)

I finished the shadow box that I was framing my Grandmother's 1924 Valentine in. I quilled the top two corners and added a few quilled hearts around her photo.

I finished 3 pairs of dice earrings for my 10 year-old (who has been begging for a pair). She saw them at Claire's (6 pairs for over $8.00). I told her I could make them, and did for a lot less. I purchased dice beads for $2.99 plus 30% off, and have more to make for all the girls.

I finished three pairs of pink dice earrings I made from pieces of a broken, elastic kids hair band.

I also finished a few more bottle cap magnets. The kids have been asking for more, to use in their school lockers.

I also finished two other projects that can be read on my S.C.R.A.P. Blog:

http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/2012/01/what-can-i-do-with-vintage-wooden.html

http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/2012/01/pin-cushions-using-kitchen-and-art.html

from the family journal. . .

I surprised the kids with another "Punch Bowl" Friday punch and cookies. I am working on more new family traditions.

from the gratitude journal. . .

Today I am thankful for:

1.Cartoons - they make me laugh.

2. my stove

3. Music

4. the extra drying racks that Mom gave me, I've been using them a lot this season

5. God's Promises

View from My Porch

2012-01-30T04:55:00.000-08:00

Take time to watch the sunrise each morning.

Homemade Baking Mix ~ Vintage Hairbrush Set ~ Sneak Peek at Shadow Box

2012-01-27T06:02:00.000-08:00

The last couple of days we have had a thin layer of snow each morning. The problem is that it's over a layer of rain that froze, melted and froze again. The school closed yesterday and today they have a 2 hour delay.

I mixed up my first batch of "baking mix" that will be stored in those two containers you see in the photo. Last year my Uncle gifted us with some dishes and those containers have been very useful. The mix will be used to do baking with, and to see if it's useful for us (in saving money). I am a whole wheat flour kind of person, so this is a real test for us. If you haven't seen Candy's blog, this recipe can be found here: Lazy J Bar C Farm.

I'm starting to work on my "family history" projects (in teeny tiny steps), and remembered that Mom gave me her mirror and hand brush set last year. This set was given to her in 1956 for my Grand parents. It is completely unused and in perfect condition. The question now is, use them or store them? Honestly, they are so pretty, that I may be using them. What a treasure these items are. The box can be used as a jewelry box, but it's been a wee bit smashed in over the years. It has a lock and key on it, and lined with red velvet.

Yesterday I posted about possibly framing my Grandma's 1924 Valentine in a shadow box.....and I did. Here is a sneak peek at the quilling that I have started for the upper two corners. Behind it is old wall paper. I am using an acid free scrapbooking adhesive to attach the card and envelope. I was actually considering cutting the writing from the envelope, but kept it whole. Just this much quilling took about 1 1/2 hours. I'll update it when I have it finished.

True Love on the Farm and More Projects

2012-01-26T06:23:00.000-08:00

Awww! Blondie hugging my 17 year-old daughter

Jasper and Tiger were playing and fell asleep right afterwards. Jasper is sleeping with his head directly on top of Tiger's head. Both are sound asleep. Awwww!

My 15 year-old and her Billy goat. It takes a lot of love to love a Billy goat.....

Good barn kitty! This doesn't show the love that this cat has, but she is a wonderful mouser. We have 3 barn cats and they are so loving to us. They can kill a mouse one minute and curl up underneath our chins the next. Aurora (pictured above) can purr very, very loud. She's truly one of a kind.

If you've been following my blog, you know I've finished the egg beater rack, the strainer plant pot, the garden mushrooms, and the drapery ring ornaments.

You also know I still working away on the sherbet colored afghan, and a knitted block blanket.......well, guess what?

I've added more "projects" to my list. I have a wonderful idea for using yo-yo's for a few more Christmas ornaments. I have an idea for something I haven't even found yet in thrift stores, and about 3-4 more gifting projects. Crazy isn't it?!

I also have a beautiful Valentine's Day card from 1924. My grandmother won it in a drawing contest at her school in the 6th grade. My wonderful Aunt mailed it to me. I am working on what I am going to do with it. I'll post that when I finish it too.

Finishing Up More Unfinished Projects

2012-01-25T05:34:00.000-08:00

If you get a chance, zip on over to my S.C.R.A.P. blog to see the latest finished, re-purpose project. It started with an old hand egg beater:

http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/2012/01/what-can-i-do-with-old-hand-egg-beater.html

I'm working on more later today if I feel good enough. Yesterday, I found out I have an ear infection and sinus infection. The antibiotics are making me very sick and very tired.

Oh...and for my "list" I have added more projects (LOL!)

Last night we tried Spicy Tuna Melts, and they were a hit. So easy and very healthy. We had a salad for the side dish. Tonight, I have no idea what I'll be making. They family is counting on me, now that they've had a week of really good food. Maybe western style ribs in the crock pot?

Mac n' Cheese Please ~ Health Update

2012-01-24T05:06:00.000-08:00

We have tried a few healthier versions of Macaroni and Cheese, but haven't really found one we all like. Of course, this is a tough dish to replace that ooey, gooey cheese sauce we all like.

After searching the Internet, I found a few that may taste pretty good. I baked Sweet Potato Mac' n' Cheese, and we loved it! It doesn't have that cheesy taste you get with a cheese sauce but my kids devoured this.

The ingredients are simple, and some day, I hope to be making my own cottage cheese from scratch (or ricotta). I know we will be adding "sweet potatoes" to the garden this year also. For our dish, I used whole wheat penne noodles. Very simple, and very good. I had broccoli as a side dish.

I've had two good meals in a row, so the family is counting on me. I'm back to searching for clean eating dishes, and hopefully find a delicious dish again.

As for the update, hubby and I have been back to the gym for over a week now. I continue to walk on the treadmill at home and we are already feeling much better. However, I am going back to the doctor today and hopefully, they can finally put an end to my ear trouble and sinus issues.

Recycling updates: I've been collecting plastic cheese bags for the school. I hope to be sending in our first shipment this week. The school receives $.02 for each one I ship in, and the landfills will be a cleaner place.

New Twist on Fries

2012-01-23T04:35:00.000-08:00

I am trying to add more vegetables and fruits to our meals, so I made Rutabaga Fries to go with baked Tilapia and peas mixed with carrots.

These were okay, but nut spectacular. We used a recipe that required fresh chopped rosemary and onion powder. They were good, but not really good.

There are so many recipes available for baking these. I may try using a garlic herb mix on them the next time I bake them.

When the Kids Don't Feel Like Watching TV

2012-01-22T05:59:00.000-08:00

That's a shocker title - "Don't Feel Like Watching TV." You'd have to wonder what's wrong with them. Even though I try to limit what they watch, for them to say that, is a rarity in this house.

I guess it's proof that your kids watch what you do, and I do a lot of handiwork here. I do think that "craft" got a bad name somewhere along it's lifetime, and we often hear people say "I don't craft."

If you think about it, even cooking can be a "craft." It's a skill using your hands, and it's a bit sad that "crafting" has been stereotyped.

Okay....back to my story. After a long day of working out, shopping for groceries, and picking up one kiddo at an overnighter, I was ready to relax early. I decided "jammie" hour came early and began to knit in my room.

All the sudden, kids started coming in and going in an out of my closet (also the storage area for most of our crafting supplies). I watched and wondered what they were up to.

"I need to do something to expand my creativity. I feel like my brain is rotting."

Out the door she (my 15 year-old) went with the box of paints. Then she came back.

"Do you have any large paper?" she asked

"Of course I do," I proceeded to explain where I had it stored (I still have large paper I bought over 3 years ago at a S.C.R.A.P. store in Michigan).

Out the door she went again.

About an hour later, I was being shown paintings that my 17 and 15 year-old daughters painted - finger painted. They were all giddy and laughing and having a good time. My younger two daughters were also painting.

Then my 10 year-old walks in, "do you have any bows in there?" she asks pointing to the closet.

"No, those are all in the garage now."

She goes into the closet.

"Oh, I know what I can use! Ribbons!"

She later hands me a letter and a wrapped gift. The letter told me how much she missed me when she stayed overnight at a friends, and the gift was a recycled valentine's heart candy box (small) painted with foam figures and beads glued to it.

I'd say my kids are full of creativity.

Chopped and other updates. . .

2012-01-21T05:31:00.000-08:00

We've been watching the "Chopped" Foodnetwork show, and the kids love it. Last night our 12 year-old begged for her own box of food to cook with.

We gave her 2 boxes of black wild rice, a jar of pimentos and a bag of mini-marshmallows. I had no idea what to get, or how creative she could be.

She cooked the rice, added the pimentos and added leftover diced chicken we had that she marinated a bit in soy sauce.

She made a dessert with the mini-marshmallows and crushed rice chex cereal. She added raisins also. It kind of tasted like rice krispie treats, but tougher to chew. She did pretty good.

I think they had so much fun with this that I may purchase items for her and her younger sister for another round.

Gus came home late afternoon yesterday. He's doing good and getting lots of pampering. He follows my son everywhere now. The vet told my son that the growth/lump was very deep, black and very nasty looking. My son agreed to have it tested in a lab, so we will know for sure. However, my son felt another lump in another area, so he'll be watching that too. Thank you for all you prayers for Gus.

The weather is a teensy bit warmer, and we got more snow last night. The pipes finally thawed by late evening last night - YAY! We get showers!

Although yarn and quilling paper has arrived in my mail, I continue to knit and crochet daily. I am amazed how fast I can knit know compared to last summer. I can remember days where I could not knit when the kids were home. I literally had to take entire knitted block apart, because I lost track of rows and stitches. I'm not an expert at it, but much better. Now, when I get back to tatting, I'll probably have to re-teach myself again. Ha ha ha!

A recent sunrise from my front porch.

Meet Gus - Surgery Today and Wooden Drapery Ring Christmas Ornaments

2012-01-20T04:08:00.000-08:00

This is Gus. He's about 11 years old. We went to the humane society to find a kitten or cat, to play with our long time cat Mattie (oldest daughter's cat). When we got there, I was busy looking at the cats, and my husband disappeared. I found him in the dog section.

We walked through, and every dog was barking except Gus. That was his name at the humane society also. He just sat in his cage and looked at us.

I kept thinking, what did someone do to you? I really thought his ability to bark was not there. He was so quiet and so calm.

Poor Gus, and another dog, had been left out and abandoned by someone. They just moved out, left the dogs tied up outside, and left them there. Horrible.

I once wrote on a topic for a Web site on family pets. You can read the original story about our pets here: http://www.helium.com/items/1754966-our-pets-and-how-they-live-in-harmony. I do need to update it, but you can read about how we ended up Gus.

Gus is basically my son's dog. They spend a lot of time together. A few years ago my son was playing with his dog's lips and laughing, but felt a lump in his jaw. Thankfully, for his play time with his dog, we had the lump removed. Now, my son has found a lump on his leg, which he has been chewing on and biting off hair.

Today, Gus is having surgery to remove the lump. We don't know if it's cancerous yet or not. Gus has been biting it too much to take a sample prior to the surgery. The good news, is that he'll get his teeth cleaned today also. That will keep him healthy.

Gus is very much like those dogs you see plopped on the front porch on a hot summer day. He loves to bathe in the sun, and if we are lucky, we can get him to run around with the other dogs.

Gus isn't a ball and fetch kind of dog, but once in a while he'll play tug-o-war with a rope, and the other dogs.

We think that Gus may have have been a hunting dog at one time, as he is the only dog (other than Sadie chasing birds) that can catch a gopher.

We are praying today the Gus recovers quickly from this surgery today. He's been a huge part of our life here. He's made us laugh and he's taught the kids to love.

I finished the wooden ring Christmas ornaments. The complete story is on my S.C.R.A.P. blog: http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/2012/01/christmas-ornament-using-thrift-store.html

A close up of the quilled holly leaves and berries drying.

I'll admit, I wish I had more of these rings. These were fun to make. I am creating two more in pastel colored yarn and will post those when they are finished also. I was lucky to find these rings for $1.00. I looked on ebay and other places and they sell for much more.

We woke up to frozen pipes in half of the house today. Good thing we have water on hand (in jugs) to flush toilets.

Library Book Heaven ~ Or Dilemma?

2012-01-19T05:07:00.000-08:00

Well, most people were right. All of the those library books got me into a lot of trouble - ha ha ha ha! UGH! I found soooo many ideas I want to make for friends and gifts and family and and and and......

Check this crochet project out.....

This could have been my "best friend" when I was sick! These are super cute and handy. I wonder if these would be useful to women in nursing homes? The pattern for these are in a book titled Big Book of Crochet, by Leisure Arts. This book is packed with ideas!

And that's just the beginning. I have already started writing book titles and projects into my "crafting journal."

It seems like I am adding projects every day now. I did have plans to make my Mom some notecards from wallpaper, and did not, so those are on the list again this year too.

Speaking of projects, my 9th grader is working on a box assignment for Art class. The box is a cigar box and they are filling it with items the represent a place they like. She came up with ideas and of course headed to my closet - the craft/clothing closet in my bedroom. It's not small, but not real big either.

When we moved here, the closet was added on between the bedroom and the garage, so the walls (most of them) are block walls. There was no hanger bars for clothes hangers either. It was simply wire shelves on the walls.

In my prior home I had organized all the supplies in labeled containers, and most of them had fit into this closet. Many tubs of beads, and material went into the garage. I often forget what's out there too.

Anyway, she started with a crackle paint to create a barn look on the outside, and then asked for other supplies (I'll post a finished picture later). This is where we both laughed.

"...but what can I use to make chicks or eggs with?"

"sculpey?"

"OH! I know! That clay stuff I put in your closet last year!"

"Are you kidding me?" I shrieked. "I'm not sure I can find anything in there!"

So....we ventured into the closet and finally found the clay she was needing, the popsicle sticks and more wood scraps she could use. We ooh'd and ahh'd over things we found in containers, including the tiny wooden clothespins I had.

And guess what?! I found the roll of applique I had been looking for! Yay! Two days of searching and found it.

You can bet that I'll be spending some time cleaning that closet today. After I clean a few drawers in my refrigerator too.

Not only did I find the applique, and items she wanted, but found a tote bag with two unfinished crocheted dishcloths in it. Aiyeeee! Yep....there's that word again. I guess there won't be any moss growing around me feet too soon.

Pumpkin Butter Bread and My Day "Off"

2012-01-18T04:14:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, and have leftover pumpkin butter you need to use up, you may like the recipe we tried. I baked a Pumpkin Butter Bread. Although it wasn't our favorite, they ate it up. I didn't have raisins and walnuts, and that may add more flavor to it.

This year I am trying to give myself a day "off." We do honor the Sabbath on Sunday, but I really need to give myself a "break" and tend to myself for a day.

It's been slow going on this. However, it's only been two weeks of initiating it also.

Ha ha ha! A day "off" is a good day to bring home library goodies and browse books. I found a few great ideas for using up my yo-yo's for Christmas ornaments and some great gift ideas.

I also finished (YAY! I can say the word now) the last of the cat flour sack towels.

I am also making progress on my mixing bowl re-purpose project. Somewhere around the house I have the original magazine article on how to make these: Garden Mushrooms

Excerpts from a Journal Junkie

2012-01-17T05:19:00.000-08:00

from the homesteading journal. . .

I made another batch of homemade dishwasher detergent. This has saved us money and kept the chemicals off of our dishes.

Although many of the kids are not willing to try my homemade deodorant, I can say it holds up to a full workout at the gym, followed by an afternoon of wood splitting.

The snow has melted and the rains have arrived again. The yard looks like it flooded already, so the laundry is being dried inside. . .

{scrap fabric drying on my indoor clothesline}

from the baking/cooking journal. . .

I used to cook from my pantry to keep foods from expiring, but so often I am cooking from my freezer. With the increased amount of garden and fruit frozen versus canned, I searched for recipes that can use up my shredded zucchini, and blueberries.

I baked two loaves of zucchini/blueberry bread, and realized that I could also utilize any applesauce I have frozen as well (in place of cooking oil). I had to smack a few hands from snatching my frozen blueberries.

I also finally canned Cinnamon/Cider jelly for our own family. Now that the Christmas holiday is over, I can catch up on chores for my own family.

from the crafting/handiwork journal . . .

I worked like a mad woman all weekend, to try and finish up or at least work on unfinished projects. While I continue to crochet my sherbet colored afghan, I started painting mixing bowls.....

{soon to be posted on my S.C.R.A.P. blogspot}

. . .I picked up at a thrift store almost 4 years ago. I boxed up a few finished ornaments, and finished a few re-purposed projects.

I finished another scarf. . .

While cleaning up my craft supplies (which could take me weeks), I found yet another unfinished project. . .

I worked a little on this yesterday, and when it's finished, this set of towels will be completed.

The list continues....

from my personal journal . . .

Two kids are home sick, hubby has been having stomach trouble (still went to work), and I am coughing with congestion, sinus pressure and once again the dreaded mucus. I was so hoping we were all over this, but this is the pits.

Today I am thankful for:

1. my washing machine
2. mail delivery to my home
3. my kid's jobs
4. the income I earn from writing
5. hot tea
6. essential oils and Vick's Vap-Rub
7. kleenex
8. my Bible
9. God's Love
10. paper

Snowin' and a Blowin'

2012-01-13T05:06:00.000-08:00

We are getting some snow right now. Everyone of course, is a bit disappointed that there wasn't enough for a school delay - ha ha!

I am continuing to work on projects that I started last spring. While digging through my craft supplies, I discovered a lap afghan that I started and never finished - tsk tsk.

This is my project every evening. During the day, after chores, I work on other projects too. I'll have some photos to share soon, regarding the ornaments that I am making with the wooden rings.

Crafts are not the only thing that remains on a list. I have many cooking/baking items I want to try this year too.

Today I am Thankful for:
~ God's Mercy
~ on-line Bible studies that I can participate from home
~ surprise mail that makes me smile
~ books! My entire family loooves to read books. We utilize non-fiction for so many reasons and I learn from them each day.
~ our animals...all of them...life would be so boring without them.
~ my Uncle! He is awesome! He gave us his treadmill and I can walk every day for health reasons. My kids use it too.
~ my Aunt! She is always upbeat and positive and keeps my crankiness at bay.
~ my Mom! She reminds me so often of the things I am good at.

I Got "Notered"

2012-01-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

"Dear Mom,
I hope your day is rockin and fun, I miss you but I know inside my heart your there!"

I Love You,
Love....

Not only did I get "notered," but I also was given a piece of candy that she won at school. It sure made my day.

Full Moon and Other Tidbits

2012-01-10T05:51:00.000-08:00

I attempted to photograph the sunrise this morning, however, I ended up catching another moon photo.

It was just starting to go down behind the trees. I missed the sunrise by running back to get my camera. The pink clouds were so pretty this morning. Maybe I'll get a another chance to get a picture of it this winter.

Although I now I should be writing out my seed orders for the garden, I keep taking an inventory over my projects. The most important ones to finish this winter, will be Christmas presents. Those are a must to finish now. Summer gardening, as large as our family is, will be very time consuming this year.

If you have a chance, stop on over to my S.C.R.A.P. blog. . .

I was inspired by another blog I follow, and with her mini-wreath pattern, we created a S.C.R.A.P. Cereal Box Gift Tag.

Cereal boxes can be recycled in most cities now, but you can use any food box you may have also. Or use the cardboard from light bulb boxes, clothing, curtains, etc.

I am now on day 4 of trying a herbal oil mix for our immune system. I am simmering it so that the entire house can benefit from it. So far, we are seeing results. Instead of being irritable with sinus pressure, we are seeing many runny noses - the same results of some over the counter allergy medications. I am also using garlic oil drops for my ear. I am on day 4 of those too. I still don't have my hearing totally clear yet, but continue to use the oil. By day 14 I will know if they worked or not.

Weekend Wonderfuls

2012-01-09T05:18:00.000-08:00

I finished the prayer shawl, and two more hats over the weekend. I am now slowing down to finish some larger, unfinished projects. I still have ornaments and a few other smaller projects, but I am happy with my progress.

I need to can jellies soon, but today is my "all-out" house cleaning day. I like to start the week off with a spic n' span clean house. However, I need to exercise first. I am slowly working back up to a 4:30am wake up call (I do much better when I exercise first thing in the morning).

Homemade Deodorant and Slip-Sliding Down Project Runway....

2012-01-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

My first granny square scarf. I had fun with this and plan to make another one for gifting. This one went to the same daughter, that this hat (another finished project)....

went to. And then I finished. . .

Another hat for another daughter. They love these hats.

I made my first batch of homemade deodorant. There are many recipes out there, and after I made this one, it was recommended to add Thyme oil to kill off any bacteria (same with Tea Tree Oil). This recipe required 6-8 Tbsp. coconut oil (melt to measure), 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup arrowroot powder (you can use corn starch, but I read that it can clog pores), and 1-2 drops of essential oil. I had lavender on hand, so I used that. The more coconut oil, the harder your deodorant is. I did use the 8 Tbsp. to give this a try, but may cut back on the oil for the next batch. The real test will come this summer when I'm sweating up a storm in the garden.

This will cost us less, contains no aluminum or other cancer causing chemicals, and lasts a lot longer than deodorant purchased in stores.

Yesterday, I brought back an old tradition - Punch Bowl Friday. On a special Friday of my choice (during the school year), I surprise the kids with a new punch made in the punch bowl, along with after school snacks. This one was Apple Orchard Punch. I meant to slice apple rings for this, but did not have any apples that day. It's just a fun way to spruce of the end of a loooong school week the kids may have had.

Husband Funny

2012-01-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

Conversation between me and hubby (and a daughter):

".....go show you Dad your scarf and hat I finally finished.."

(she goes and gets them and returns)

"Wow honey!!! You should sell those! That is ....."

"You know I have a blanket over there I have to finish, a shawl over there, and......"

"Well why don't I have a hat like that?"

"You have a hat and a scarf I made you."

"Not like those...."

"What color?"

"Grey."

"So I have your permission to go buy more yarn? I don't have any leftover in that color."

"Yes............I mean NO! One of these days I'll wake up and find yarn stacked to the ceiling....."

Ha ha ha ha ha! So, he wants a hat and he wants it in a color I don't have. Hmpf. Guess I'm buying grey yarn.....adding another "project" to the project list....

I'll be back to post more finished projects.

Tired and Wired

2012-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

The kids came home wired up and tired. Is that combination even normal? Ha ha ha! The first day back to school was good for all of them.

Today....this post is short. I MUST attack my filing cabinet and clean it out for a new year. This year, there is much less paper to file. Thank goodness.

I'll be back when I dig myself out of the mess that piled up when I got sick. Thankfully, many items in the "pile" belong to other people in the house. So....they will be treated with a "pile" of their own to sort out. Phew! I can't wait to have it all organized again. I have so many other projects that need finished.

Snow ~ Project Runway ~ Back to School

2012-01-04T06:31:00.000-08:00

We finally got snow. The younger two girls have been playing in it, getting pulled around in sleds, with chasing dogs behind them.

Today the sun is trying to peak out, but the wind is swift enough to dry my larger items outside on the line. The rest are on drying racks in front of the wood stove.

And if you are wondering if our family motto is really true or not ("Eat it up, Wear it out, Make it do, Or go without.") check out those pink flannel sheets on the line. Those used to be mine as a kid. Mom gave them to me several years ago, and now my own kids are using them. The elastic is giving out on the bottom sheet, but they sure come in handy in this old farm house.

As for the "Project Runway" part of the post, think "projects."

I have a list of more crafting projects that need finished or completed, and I'll post them as I complete them.

Over the school winter break, I finished a set of cup coasters, a few ornaments and dishcloths. I also crocheted one of the girls a hat.

Classy Cloche Hat Pattern

and a pair of slippers. . .

I didn't really have a pattern for these. I just kind of "winged" it. Either way, I managed to finish them and use leftover yarn in my "stash."

I also ironed transfers onto 5 shirts, 2 lunch bags, one bible/book cover, on tote bag (actually two, but will add that in a minute), and one bandanna.

I guess I deleted the photo already, but my advice is to never play a guessing game with five kids while ironing on transfers. One transfer was ironed on upside down. Ha ha ha ha!

Today, the kids are back in school. I overheard them this morning, while waiting for the school bus.

".....I know....they'll ask what are your resolutions..."

"....and what did you do over break..."

"...I know....and they go one at a time.....what did you get for Christmas...."

This was all said in high pitched sarcastic mimicking voices. What used to be fun to share in elementary, is not so fun for middle and high school anymore. I got a chuckle listening to them imitate teachers. After they left, I had one more to put on a school bus. Only her conversation was:

"....I know Tig.....I don't want to go either...."

She was talking to her cat, giving him lots of love, and dreading the return of school.

For the Birds

2012-01-02T05:23:00.000-08:00

My son gifted me another trailer. Isn't it cute? I will be putting this in the tree just in front of the house.

Happy New Year! It's 2012!

2012-01-01T05:47:00.000-08:00

The new year aftermath - indoors. Ha ha ha ha ha!

The new year aftermath - outdoors......I'm sure the barn cats are trying to figure out what that funny string stuff is. Ha ha ha!

Despite one daughter having to work at 4am the morning of New Year's Eve, and my son working New Year's Eve and this morning, I think they all had a good time last night.

We added more healthier foods to our festive night this year - a fruit tray.

Growing up, Mom always had tables full of snacks she baked for Christmas, Chex mix was a must, and punch in the punch bowl. As a tradition, we would all sleep underneath and around the Christmas tree. In the morning it would come down. It was a real tree every year. I look forward to putting up a real tree here (once the cats learn not to climb it).

When we took down the tree, and after the ornaments came off and were put away, we would take down (what we called) the tinsel. You know, those tiny slivers of silver that you can decorate your tree with?

We used something very similar, if not the same brand, as the one above - Icicles.

Not only would we put these on one at a time, but we'd take them off one at a time, and put them back in the box for the next Christmas. We still laugh about that.

We didn't keep that tradition in my home today, but we do take our tree down January 1st. It's a struggle to get it all back in the boxes they came out of, but we some how get it all put away.

It's a happy-sad day - January 1st. It's the start of a new year, the start to start over, and the end of the holidays.

Here's to a great start with the new year!

Bringing in the New Year ~ Out with the Old

2011-12-31T07:29:00.000-08:00

As I sit here and reflect on this year, I think about all the experiences I had, as well as my family.

I fed my family weeds.

I learned to stock up more of my garden and invested in a dehydrator.

Took one weekend getaway with hubby and no kids.

Took some kids camping.

Glamped the camper for the first time.

Completed many craft/handiwork projects.

Built things with the family.

Took a Hearthside cooking class with my oldest daughter.

Learn to shoot a gun.

Bought dairy goats.

Bought more goats.

Watched my daughter buy her horse.

Added more layers to our chicken coop.

Raised our own meat chickens.

Got snowed in and had fun in the snow.

Sent one daughter to see Washington, D.C. for the her first time.

Added new flowers to my flower beds.

Built my first scarecrow.

Baked homemade bread.

Watched many sunrises.

Watched many sunsets.

Watched the moon.

Made the garden larger this year.

Taught myself how to knit.

Taught myself how to do needle tatting.

Participated in National Novel Writing Month for the second year.

Planted redbud trees from a seed.

Thanks for reading this long blog post of reflections. There was a lot more too! Happy New Year!

Homemade Thousand Island Dressing ~ Utilizing Home Canned Ingredients

2011-12-30T05:43:00.000-08:00

The next time you mix up a big salad, consider this homemade dressing recipe:

Thousand Island Dressing
1 cup mayonnaise
4 Tbsp. sweet pickle relish (I used my canned sweet pickle relish)
2 Tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. ketchup (again I used my own canned ketchup)
1 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Combine all the ingredients with a wire whisk in a small bowl. Refrigerate the dressing in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Makes 1 1/2 cups

This recipe came from a book I borrowed from the library. I was searching out healthy recipes for home cures and honey. Funny how we sometimes come across something so interesting. Anyway, I found this book called Tupelo Honey Cafe, Spirited Recipes from Asheville's New South Kitchen, by Elizabeth Sims with Chef Brian Sonoskus.

(link to the book on Amazon)

There are many good recipes in this book. If you are looking for new recipes, you'll like this one. I found recipes for Blackberry Skillet Jam, Cherry Apple ChowChow, Tupelo Honey Pickled Beet Salad, Orange Cilantro Butter, and a lot more.

While sharing about this book and it's good recipes, I can also share another book I borrowed: Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living, Surviving with nothing but your bare hands and what you fund in the woods, by John McPherson and Geri McPherson. One section in that book caught my attention - making baskets. I missed out on a basket weaving class and really want to learn this. I don't have willow here, so this will be a challenge on finding it from someone.

Morning Ramble:

The weather here is either really cold or warm. The days rotate back and forth and if we are lucky, we see a few snowflakes.

When I stood on the porch, while taking the dogs out early this morning. There was silence for a second. Then I heard the roosters and the goats. Then I heard birds singing. Birds? Yep, it's warm enough that the birds are out and about.

I know that February is the worst month here for snowfall, so I know what to expect. However, this rotation of warm and cold is not good for our health. We are all battling our sinuses again, and I have yet to buy my homeopathic remedies. I did see that a new store opened up recently, and I plan on visiting that too. Maybe I can find a better cure for my ear.

Project update: I am still finishing up the truffle mold ornaments. I just need to drill the holes and add hangers. I am finishing up a few golf tee angel ornaments too. I used up scrap cotton yarn and finished 5 cup coasters, and will add a 6th today. I finished another knitted dishcloth, and both the coasters and the dishcloth will be added to my "store." I am halfway done crocheting a prayer shawl, and continue to work on my knitted blocks (that's a blanket for myself). I have added more ideas to my Christmas gift list for next year, and plan to use up the baby yarns I have to make baby booties (that's a year long project). I knitted one dishcloth for myself also. My list is long, but I keep working away on it.

.......now I need to get off of here and exercise so I can get back to completing unfinished projects (and do my regular cleaning chores). Summer will be here before I know it, and I don't want to get behind like this year (getting sick on top it).

I Own Another Trailer~~ and Safe Pet Toys

2011-12-29T06:46:00.000-08:00

It's good to dream right? Well, I was gifted another trailer from my son this year. Last year he gifted me an ornament that hooks up to Christmas lights. This year he gifted me this one:

Isn't it darling? I love it! Now I own two. They are not the kind I can go camping in, but dreams do come true.

Yesterday, in the center of completing more projects, my daughter reminded me that we dried catnip for cat toys. So I hopped on my sewing machine chair and made several for the cats.

I wish all the photos came out. However, they were rolling around and moving so fast. Here is Jasper licking his pillow. I took scrap material and made miniature pillows, and stuffed them with dried catnip (that grows wild on our property). Tiger, another cat, was holding his pillowing between his front paws and rubbing it on both sides of his face. We had so much fun watching them.

.....well, it's another day of working on projects....I better get to work. The year is ending fast and my pile continues to grow. I made a trip to the thrift store on my way to the grocery store (gulp). I came home with a few more projects to re-purpose. I gotta quit doing that. Ha ha ha ha! Look for those updates on my S.C.R.A.P. blog in the near future.

Busy Bee

2011-12-28T06:15:00.000-08:00

This past week has been a looooong week. We have three celebrations during the week of Christmas - one birthday, the celebration of Christmas, and our wedding anniversary. I just realized that New Year's Eve is Saturday.

Way back before I got sick with a two month case of bronchitis/sinus and ear infection, I started a birthday surprise (shawl) for my youngest daughter. I did not have time to finish it. I was able to finish it yesterday.

I crocheted a pattern I found on the Internet, with a shimmer green yarn. This was a complicated pattern for me, so crochet experts (after taking a very close look) may give me a bad grade. However, my daughter loves it, and it's one more project completed.

I am also busy making more truffle mold ornaments for gifting and for the kids. Each one will have an ornament with a photo of their animal(s) in each one. When these are completed, I will box the rest up for Christmas 2012.

In my quest to get back in shape (after my husband's sister almost passed away and I got sick two times), I have been able to drop 10 pounds. That part is easy.....it's the rest that will take time. However, I am ready to shed it and get in shape and be more energetic.

Today, I hope to work on my loooong list of unfinished projects. And exercise of course.

More Truffle Mold Ornaments

2011-12-24T08:52:00.000-08:00

Truffle Mold Ornaments

2011-12-23T12:30:00.000-08:00

If you receive e-mails from MaryJane's Farm Sisterhood (recipe/project of the week), you have already seen this project - Truffle Mold Ornaments.

A while back, I purchased a bag of truffle molds at goodwill, for about $2.00. I can't remember if I got them half off that day.

I cut photos from magazines and used printed photos to create a few ornaments already. I did not just outline the photo with glitter, but went a bit further out with it. I could not find German glass glitter, and simply used glitter from Hobby Lobby.

These were fun to make, and have helped me clear out my closed of unfinished projects.

Merry Christmas!

Birthday Party and More Gifting

2011-12-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

We'll spend today cleaning house. My 9 year-old daughter has a birthday party tomorrow. I can still remember when she was born. I begged the hospital to let me bring her home Christmas Eve. They dig too. It was the best Christmas present that year.

Yesterday I found out that the other side of our family (husband's) is having a Christmas party on Friday night also (hmpf!). I didn't know about it prior to making arrangements for our little one's first every birthday sleepover party.

I ran out of my fun checkered lids for gifting, but canned another 8 - 1/2 pints of Cinnamon-Cider Jelly. I have yet to can some for my own family. Maybe after the holidays pass, I can relax and make some for ourselves. I need to place tags and toppers on these jars and they will be ready to give on Friday night (husband's family party). I sure hope I canned enough.

More Finished Gifts

2011-12-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the baby bonnet and booties for the expected baby next month. I used two free patterns from the Internet - Granny Square Baby Bonnet and a bootie pattern on Bernat yarn site (you have to register to print it).

This morning I sent my 4th grader to school with a teacher gift and bus driver gift. It's the last year she'll be riding the elementary bus. Each one received a jar of homemade Cinnamon Honey Butter, and a knitted dishcloth.

The school held a Choir concert this morning. It was during school hours this morning. Today is the last day of school before their Christmas break starts.

Organizing Gifts for Christmas 2012

2011-12-20T05:18:00.000-08:00

If you follow my blog, you know I am a journal junkie. Now is the time for me to drag out my craft journal.

Years ago, I bought this "Crafty Gals" organizer/journal at a Christian bookstore. Gosh, that must have been over 5-6 years ago.

It has sections for listing supplies, projects and notes. I'm currently listing all of my unfinished projects that need finished, along with gifts for next year, including Christmas.

While digging through my unorganized supplies, I found these wooden rings. They are about 3 inches in diameter. Each ring has a hook already in them. They were marked $1.00, but I like to shop and look for the color tag that is 1/2 off that day, and got these for $.50.

I decided it was time to make ornaments with them for next Christmas. I found a pattern on-line for a giant wreath that also works for small rings.

I used leftover Christmas colored yarn (cotton) to crochet around the ring, using a pattern from Good Knits.

(backside)

I will use recycled cardboard and glue a circle to the backside. I am not sure yet what I will put in the center of the cardboard, but I am considering quilling something, cross-stitching something, or adding rings of tatting of some sort. I guess I will decide after I get all the rings finished first.

This takes 2 more items out of my closet - yay! In the last two homes I have lived in, I had a special room for my crafting supplies. Each with a table to work on. Now, in this old farm house, I have shoved my supplies into my bedroom closet. I don't have the room like I used to have (at least at this time). It's forcing me to get items out and finish them, before the garden season arrives again.

To-Do List Keeps Growing

2011-12-19T05:39:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a strange day for sure. Since we had the family reunion on Saturday, all of our work was pushed to Sunday. I don't like to "work" on Sunday at all. I try my best to honor the Sabbath.

Exod. 34:21 "Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing season and harvest you must rest."

We ran out of homemade laundry detergent also.  So, in the process of washing dishes for 2 hours, and running the dishwasher 2 times, I was at the stove melting my zote soap down in a large pot.  I now have a full 5 gallon bucket of laundry detergent.

After that, my son and I cleaned the chicken coops.  Due to some bad weather days, they have stayed inside.  However, today they will be outside.

This week we have a birthday to celebrate, just a few days before Christmas.  My youngest daughter turns 10.   

Yesterday, three kids needed something to bake and take to school.  For some reason, the Spanish teacher asked kids to each bring in a dish to eat.  Talk about stress......we just baked up a storm of cookies that left the kitchen a mess and then we have to cook again? Ugh...... (next year we will ask someone else to bake the cookies).

I convinced my 9 year-old to take chocolate covered oreo's for her school birthday treat.  My 15 year-old baked a Mexican Wedding cake herself, but my 17 year-old was sick yesterday.  She needed a hot Mexican dish and requested enchiladas.  So there was another dish we needed to bake, and we were all so tired that I didn't even cook ourselves dinner.

Now....today, I have yet to clean another messy kitchen.  

Do you ever feel like your "to-do" list is never completed?  

Reunion is Over

2011-12-18T06:22:00.000-08:00

I'll spare you the photos of my messy kitchen, but the end result of a very, very messy kitchen was:

Thanks to a farmgirl barter (or two), I had fun gift giving lids for my jelly this Christmas.

This year I made my candy apple jelly using apple cider vs. apple juice. The kids love it! I need to make a second batch after the kitchen is all cleaned up too.

Now that I have given Mom her blanket, I can post a photo of it. I also gifted my brother a thin line (blue line) scarf (which I forgot to take a photo of).

I was given a pattern from a very good friend to crochet my brother's thin line scarf. I used royal blue and black for police colors and if you would like to know the significance of the "thin line" or "blue line" meaning click on "The Thin Blue Line (emblem)."

Today is Sunday, but Monday brings more baking needs: one daughter needs a birthday treat to take in tomorrow, one needs to bake something for Spanish class, and another needs to bring in a Mexican food dish for Spanish class also. I am considering (gulp) visiting the frozen section of the grocery store today, for at least one of these. There is only so much one person can do.

Santa's Helper ~ Preparing for a Christmas Reunion

2011-12-16T05:33:00.000-08:00

Santa's Helper mailed my 9 year-old daughter a present:

The golden cat looks like her own cat. She is in love with this apron.

(Tiger, her cat)

My 19 year-old son baked his famous M&M cookies for our family reunion, which is Saturday. My 15 year-old daughter is helping bake almost all the rest of the goodies.

She has made a batch of buckeyes (left), a batch of chocolate covered oreos (right), chocolate covered pretzels, a batch of noodle ting-a-lings and has plans to help make more goodies after school.

I admit, I am stressing a bit. I may not get everything made this year. I should have made my jelly a month ago. Sheesh, what was I thinking?

I may break out my Christmas albums (the old-fashioned records) and play some non-stop, commercial free music to relax.

Handmade Christmas Tree Ornaments ~ Yes, there are more!

2011-12-15T05:54:00.000-08:00

This was made with recycled cardboard covered with scrap material for the wings, a wooden button painted for the angel head, and scrap ribbon under her head. The hair was purchased at a thrift store. She is topped with gold chenille stem for a halo.

An angel made by gluing pasta shells and a wooden bead. I painted them and sprinkled glitter before the paint dried.

A pretzel ornament made from shaping sculpey clay and allowing it to dry. I sprayed it with a gloss finish and the "salt" is rock salt glued on. Another of my favorites.

An ice cream cone ornament. I purchased colored ball ornaments on sale, turned them upside down and glued them into real ice cream cones sprayed with a matte finish (lightly). I topped the ball with crayola model magic (white frosting) and glued it on. I sprayed it with a finish and sprinkled colored beads for the ice cream topping.

Made by gluing two styrofoam pieces together with toothpicks, and covered with the textured glue/snow mixture you can buy in stores.

A beaded cross made with silver chenille stems and beads.

A heart made with silver chenille stems and beads.

Stars created by painting styrofoam stars with gold paint (be careful as spray paint will eat away the styrofoam if not painted lightly), and decorated with sequins.

Wreaths made by crocheting thread and running a ribbon through it.

Simple cookie cutter ornaments made with dried spanish moss and miniature wooden figures inside them.

Created from a pattern I found in a library book and felt. I am not sure if I still have the name of the book, but will check. He's stuffed with pillow stuffing.

I found one of the embroidered name stockings I posted about earlier. I embroidered names on material, then edged them with rick rack on tiny stockings. You could take this a step further and made you own tiny stocking.

Made with a cut piece of recycled styrofoam food tray, painted and embellished with plastic gems.

Simply made with lace edging, fun and fun ribbons.

The above two ornaments were crocheted by one of my grandmothers. Our tree is not just decorated with my own handmade ornaments but with ornaments from family. I also have a beaded ornament from an Aunt. I have yet to unpack it.

We used to have a second tree, but when the barn cats were housed in the garage one winter, they ruined it. I have yet to replace that tree. I think we have enough ornaments for 4-5 trees. Ha ha ha!

Each of my kids have a box of ornaments for their hope chest also. However, my 9 year-old is now obsessed with the knitting basket ornament and wants one in her hope chest now. I don't blame her. It's one of my favorites too.

Merry Christmas and blessings for creative decorating!

Cinnamon Honey Butter

2011-12-15T04:25:00.000-08:00

I spent the other day mixing up several jars of Cinnamon Honey Butter. They will be gifted for Christmas.

This photo is on my S.C.R.A.P. blog. I cut circles from old Christmas cards to make tags for the jars.

Cinnamon Honey Butter
1/2 cup butter (real butter) softened
1/3 cup honey
1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Mix ingredients and spread on toast, biscuits, pancakes or waffles. Store in refrigerator, tightly covered. (source: Bear Wallow Books, Honey~Maple Syrup~Sorghum Recipes)

Excerpts from a Journal Junkie

2011-12-13T05:09:00.000-08:00

from the homesteading journal. . .

The goat shed is finally up and ready for winter. It's been painted with primer, but we will now have to wait to paint it after winter. He's so happy with his new house.

from the handiwork journal . . .

I finished one square baby blanket for the baby due next month (extended family member). I missed the baby shower when I was sick.

(rose pink)

I also finished one baby bib. I just have to sew on the button.

from the family journal . . .

. . .some kids are in big trouble this morning. I am crunching something underneath my feet in the kitchen. I can remember when it used to be legos underneath my bare feet when they were very little kids. Boy those hurt!

from the gratitude journal . . .

Today I am thankful for:

~propane in our tank

~a beautiful sunrise that I was able to view. In a few minutes after I took the photo, the sky literally turned gray.
~the extra drying racks that my mother gave me.
~slippers to keep my feet warm.
~endless projects to keep my mind busy.
~God's Love.
~the heating pad that is helping my sore ear.
~more cut firewood.
~friends.
~socks.

One Warm Dog

2011-12-12T05:35:00.000-08:00

I haven't done any "real" sewing for a while. I found this fleece on sale for $3.99/yard and my daughter approved it. Not bad for sewing my first dog coat. Isn't he handsome?

Next sewing project . . . pot holders.