Chronicles of Yaya

My Testimony

2011-10-29T02:27:00.000-05:00

~ "Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things..." 2 Timothy 4:2-5

I think I do my best thinking when I am outdoors watering my garden. The cool brisk Autumn air makes me feel euphoric and happy. My thoughts almost always flow to how wonderful it is to have faith in a being far greater than those things which I see in the natural realm of existence. I look to the sky and see the beautiful stars begin to glimmer, and I can't help but wonder how small and insignificant we must look from the lofty heights above and beyond. I am in awe of the great creative genius of my God, my Creator.

So many traverse through this planet without that faith, or worse yet, with faith in things which are not eternal and will cease to be. I mean, I do understand how we so easily can look at the ugliness which also exists alongside the beauty and think that it is all for naught, all random and chaotic. That when we die, that is the end, and no more. I think I would have been agnostic at best, had it not been for what I experienced on that late evening in May of 1980. What I am about to share is not at all about 'religion'. In fact, I am probably the least religious person. For some reason because I am a woman of faith, and cannot help but share the joy of the Gospel, people tend to judge me as being religious or puritanical. I am neither. I am however, a believer in Jesus Christ and his power to change people's lives.

As I lay in bed in my Grandmother's house, with my little two year old baby asleep by my side, I listened intently to a simple cassette tape my Sister and Brother in law had been asking me to play for quite some time. I had refused to for so long because I just did not want anything to do with religion. I felt that being Catholic in and of itself was enough. I had no real desire to listen to any 'alleluya' preacher. But that evening I relented and decided to just hear the tape.

It was the testimony of a man who had once been a Catholic priest, a man who had a great desire to serve God, and felt it his duty to join the priesthood. While in the priesthood, he saw ugliness and immorality in many of the church leaders he was bound by oath to respect and obey. The homosexuality and pedophile behavior he saw made him doubt the existence of God, and so he left the Church and the priesthood. He was a miserable being, until God touched his life and he found a purpose that he had been called for.

In the tape, He spoke of the parable of the lost sheep, and how he surely had been one. As he spoke, his words resonated within me. I too was lost, not knowing my way. I had experienced great pain and deception in my young life. I was a single unwed Mother, and I knew that I had not done a very good job of managing my life up to that point. And so, this proud young woman who thought she knew everything, humbled her heart. I asked Jesus into my heart, to take complete rein of my life, and to reign in my heart from that moment forward. As I uttered the Sinner's prayer and asked God for forgiveness, I began to feel an indescribable feeling of utter joy such as I had never before felt. I literally felt as though a gushing river of joy was about to flow out of my heart and being! Then a strange thing began to happen. As I attempted to thank God for his mercy, I realized that there just no words to adequately express what I felt. All I could utter was 'Thank you Jesus' over and over again. I remember physically feeling as though a very great weight was lifted off my back. I felt light as a feather. Then, slowly, without understanding or knowing what was happening, I began to utter 'words' which consisted of syllables which I could not comprehend. But they did flow from my most inner being. My sense of rational thinking began to try to stop the flow, began to almost make me feel fearful and even somewhat embarrassed. What are you doing I asked myself. And as such the words stopped. But the feeling of joy and redemption stayed with me. When my Sister and her Husband arrived a few hours later, they immediately asked what had happened, and said that my face looked radiant. They saw the change in me, without my having spoken even one word!

As I related to them what had happened, they proceeded to explain what had happened from a Biblical perspective. I had experienced what is called being 'born again'- an experience which literally is mentioned in the Bible, but when you read it, you think of it in 'natural' terminology, as in coming forth out of a woman's womb again. But it is not that at all. It is the shedding of the old, and coming forth as a new creation, a new being. And that happens when you accept Jesus Christ into your heart. And it is the beginning of a beautiful journey and a close walk with him! He promises in Isaiah 1:19: ~Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.~ What a glorious promise to wipe the slate clean!

This doesn't mean that you will be perfect and free from the temptations and perils of this life. But you will always have him to cry out to and ask for help in becoming what he called you to be.

As to the experience I had and the words I uttered: it was one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit which are mentioned in I Corinthians 12:4, 7-11 ~There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.... (7) Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.~

In essence, it is a prayer language. Sometimes there are no words to describe what I feel in my heart, the longings of my Spirit, so I pray in tongues. I know God hears me and understands and knows.

I share this because it is good news. In this ever growing hostile world, it is comforting to know that God's word is faithful and constant and true. I only wish I had not wasted so many years without him in my life.

And finally, I was given one final instruction by my Sister: read the Bible! It is a life manual. Through the word you will begin to see and understand and know who Jesus was and is and will be through the ages.

~In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." John 1:1-5

John 15:11 ~These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.~

Brief Update

2011-10-21T15:49:00.001-05:00

And I'm back, for a brief post. This cooler weather is so wonderful, it even makes me want to write again. I think I would be quite happy in what most would call dreary rainy weather, such as in areas of the Pacific Northwest. I feel more creative in that climate, I think. The heat here just drains me and depresses me. Too much of a good thing I guess. What depresses me most is the way the heat just eats up my garden. First, I lost so many plants to last Winter's freeze, then I about lost all the remaining specimens in this Summer's brutal heat wave. Thinking Hawaii would be a beautiful place to live. But God has me here for a reason. So I will endure.

My weight loss journey continues. Slow, almost stalled, but that's ok. I feel healthy and I feel so much better. And I think the thing that totally tickles my fancy- I can cross my legs! Oh what a glorious feeling to be able to do so. I realize that may not seem like a big deal when you've never had a problem being able to cross your legs, and when weight is not an issue, but believe me, this is right up there with winning the lotto for me. Of course, I've never won a lottery before, but I can imagine it's an awesome feeling if you do.

I can bend down and pull weeds, I can walk distances, I don't mind if we have to park far away from the stores or the mall when we're out and about. In fact, I actually very much welcome that, for it gives me the chance to walk more. It's not a big deal to walk to the park with my Grandchildren, and the list goes on.

Maybe I've written about this before, but I think it's ok to remind myself again of the things most people take for granted. And yes, I'm a happy camper.

Until next time, have a little faith.

Lift Up Your Hands!

2011-09-02T17:48:00.000-05:00

Oh, how my heart rejoices! I lift up my arms to my Redeemer! If you have been saved by his redeeming grace, then you know what of I speak. There are those who daily toil and muster their strength and all their efforts to glorify the things of this world, of this Earth. And then there are those who dedicate all their talent to glorify the one who paid the highest ransom for man.

And this one: What beautiful talent for the Glory of God!

Celebrating One Year Since Surgery

2011-08-19T17:22:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was the one year year anniversary of my bariatric surgery. I was feeling a little adventurous, and wanted to 'commemorate' the date by doing a mini makeover. So off I went to the beauty salon for a change of hair color. I'm still not used to the drastic change, so I'm thinking I should have done this gradually. What was I thinking? Anyway, it's done, no turning back. I mean I can change it, but I am not crazy about the idea of exposing my skin to all those chemicals again so soon after the double color process I underwent. I was told I should wait before changing it again. So here's the new hair look- oh, but wait, I should probably mention that I also have been celebrating the weight loss. I mean, isn't that what this whole journey has been about? So far I've lost 119 lbs! I am still not at my target weight, in fact, I have about 30 more pounds to go, and it's going slow. But slow is good. I'm in no hurry. I just know that it has been worth it- every moment of angst and discomfort was worth this newly found feeling that I'm going to be alright. The Lord has been good to me and has seen me through the long days of before and after.

And just to illustrate the changes I've gone through, here are just a couple of before

and after pics:

The before photos were taken on August 12, 2010, just 4 days before the surgery. The after photos were taken I believe back in May or June of this year. I've since lost just a little bit more weight. I had hoped to have reached my target goal, which is why I hadn't shared any photos before here on this chronicle. But it's all good. And now for the hair color photos:

Quite a drastic change I daresay. It's taking me some time to get used to that haircolor. I will likely be changing it up again. I'm thinking maybe red haircolor? Oh, I'm having fun with this aren't I?

All right, I know I sound trivial and light hearted, yet perhaps in the next post I can share more 'serious' things about this journey. I didn't embark on it for my looks. I didn't set out with the thought that I wanted to do a makeover or change my image. NOT AT ALL. A million thoughts have gone through my mind in the past year, and I'm hoping to be able to share what it has all meant to me. Life can be tough. But we have to look around us for strength and inspiration to get through those hard spots. The best advise I can give myself or anyone: just trust in the Lord with all your heart.

Venetian Recipes For My New Pots

2011-07-29T19:59:00.003-05:00

I finally cooked something today on my nifty new pots. I made a wonderful meal of braised pork ribs, cut into individual pieces, flavored with fresh rosemary, sage and garlic. A side of creamy risotto with mushrooms and shrimp and a side of simple sauteed spinach with garlic in extra virgin olive oil. I used recipes featured on PBS' "Adventures With Ruth" series from Gourmet magazine fame. Fortunately, the videos are online, and I was able to find them by searching for the Gourmet magazine website. The video includes a couple of additional recipes, even one for duck, but I only used the one for the pork ribs and the risotto. Fast forward on the video to about 11:50 for the section on the pork ribs. The segment on the risotto starts at around 17:37. Right before that is a segment on making a really flavorful shrimp stock which can be used for the risotto, but I just used chicken stock and wine for the liquid, as well as cream at the end, like the video shows. It's very simple, and the risotto turns out very creamy and delicious. The pork ribs were divine! Meat falling off the bone is a good thing!

Turns out my two new pots were just the right size for these dishes. How great is that? I am thrilled with my pots! I just tried unsuccessfully to embed the video but somehow it just wouldn't load. I'm afraid I can only include the link to Enrica Rocca's Venice. Enjoy!

Joy Of Pots

2011-07-28T16:02:00.002-05:00

Things which make Grandma absolutely giddy with joy: kitchen pots and gadgets. During a recent trip to the Hill Country, I made a little stop at the San Marcos outlets. I normally just visit the Williams Sonoma store, but I had something else in mind. I watch the Mad Hungry show with Lucinda Scala Quinn and also Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa cooking shows. I am always so inspired by their use of the Le Creuset braising pots. Just the sight of those short clunky pots makes me want to put on an apron and slave over a hot stove. Monkey see, monkey do, I always say. And indeed, I got my little pots in my little kitchen just like I'd been wanting for a while.

Now, one thing you must know about me, I don't like to pay full price. I wait for sales and I do like markdowns. I also don't mind buying what are called 'second runs' in the Le Creuset world. It just means they're not first quality, and may have some slight imperfections, but the lifetime warranty remains in place.

The larger of the two braising pots has some slight discoloration on the lid, and being on the outside, I know it won't affect food or the cooking process.

The smaller braiser has a couple of very small, almost imperceptible scratches, and are also on the outer surface. I was also doubly blessed in that those two pots were in EXACTLY the color I had hoped I would find, the off white tone called 'Dune', but which I think of as Linen colored. Those are the colors that Lucinda and Ina often use in the shows, and well, I fell in love with the look. An added bonus was the little red casserole dish, which was added to the purchase as a gift from the store. I happen to already have a similar red pot from the Lodge cast iron collection, which I got at Walmart at a very good price. My other Le Creuset pots are in cobalt blue, but that's fine that they're not all in matching colors. I actually really liked the new "Kiwi" color which is a green apple color. Gorgeous, and would look so cheerful in any kitchen, but none were available in discounted prices.

One other thing which also made me very happy was a popover baking pan, as I had recipes for popovers, but no specialty pan. I do have muffin pans, but since popovers rise high like a souffle, I wanted to be able to have the full effect.

And last but not least, was an ebelskiver pan for making those delectable puffy filled pancakes. I have had my eye on this little gadget on numerous trips to the outlets and the Williams Sonoma store, but always talked myself out of buying it, not quite being able to justify the expense. I kept convincing myself that it would just be another gadget in my inventory of kitchen 'stuff', and that I probably wouldn't really be making a lot of stuffed pancakes, however cute and small they were. But I always thought in the back of my mind, that making them for my Grandsons and making them happy to enjoy something delicious would be enough of a reason to have it in my stash.

And of course the corresponding batter mix for said little apparatus. I know there is a recipe for making them from scratch, but I'd like to first see how they taste so I can compare to made from scratch.

And so these are the things which delight and make me happy. No designer clothing or jewelry for me. Just the little things which help me be a better cook. For me, cooking and baking are just a small way to show my love for my family. And there's nothing wrong with that.

A Bit of Paper Crafting

2011-07-25T19:06:00.001-05:00

About the only thing that frustrates me is our climate. Months and months of heat is unbearable! It's almost 7pm and it's 104F. I literally become a hermit during the Summer, as staying indoors affords me some respite from the heat.

Other than housework, baking and cooking, the other thing that helps keep me amused and entertained during my self imposed confinement is doing a bit of paper crafting. A few snips here and there, a little glue and glitter, and you end up with some nifty creations.

No need to rush out and buy cards when you need to send a greeting card. I still think handmade is so much better.

Mexican Conchas

2011-07-24T23:59:00.004-05:00

I've had lots to talk about, lots to share, but I will admit I just did not take the time to sit down long enough to write . In answer to those readers who inquired about my well being, through kind and thoughtful emails and comments here on the blog, I can honestly say I've been fine and in good health. I'm afraid my last post had people thinking I was going through difficult times. Nothing could be further from the truth. My intention in that post was merely to reiterate what I know to be a common human condition- that of just getting from one day to the next in these uncertain times.

In other news, I have been happily baking the days away. Although I am not able to partake of too much in the way of my baked goods, the joy of baking is alive and well in my little heart. In fact, just a couple of hours ago I took two piping hot trays out of the oven loaded with Mexican conchas. I have been wanting to try my hand at making this very popular Mexican pastry for almost two years, but somehow kept getting off track in doing so. Some time back I purchased a lovely baking book "My Sweet Mexico" by Fany Gerson, and I had to try one of the recipes. Shame on me for it having taken so long! Based on the results of my conchas, I am now anxious to tackle more of her recipes. Baking is so pleasurable, it just really stimulates the senses. I love the aromas wafting from the oven and filling the whole house- the most wonderful aroma of freshly baked yeasty bread. Oh, to be able to bottle that fragrance!

I made all of them with a chocolate topping, although they can also be made with a white, pink, or yellow topping. My family prefers chocolate, so I made them all that way.

The dough itself is made very much like a brioche, rich with eggs and butter. The crumb topping recipe calls for butter, confectioners sugar, and flour. Which was somewhat of a relief to me, because most Mexican bakeries use shortening instead of butter. Truth be told, most all bakeries use shortening in their frostings and such. I can see how it is much healthier to make your own pastries because you know exactly what ingredients you used. It goes without saying that because you're baking for your own family, you would use the best ingredients. I was only able to take a couple of bites of one of the conchas, and believe me, they are pretty darn big! They puffed up so nicely, even the topping expanded so prettily.

A couple of weeks ago I made a Rustic Sourdough Bread using a King Arthur Flour recipe, and I really liked the results. I have to add that every recipe I have ever used from the King Arthur Flour website has always yielded spectacular results. It is one of my best go to sites for baking inspiration.

I will try and make a post soon about a wonderful Mexican cooking book I acquired recently. I highly recommend it. So until next time, Have a little faith!

For Today

2011-06-02T11:53:00.000-05:00

I awaken each day, and put one foot in front of the other, like everyone else. I wish I could write about endless accomplishments and feats. But sometimes you just have to deal with the here and now, and that is enough. I have much to share, much to say, and yet in the greater scope of things, it all seems as nothing.

We are all fighting a battle, all struggling to stay afloat and to finish the race. Reading can be an instrument which gives one that surge of strength to carry on- that gasp of air to be able to lift up one's sword and fight the demons which assuredly attack each of us daily. Stay calm and carry on.

Note To Self

2011-06-01T00:35:00.000-05:00

You must write every single day of your life… You must lurk in libraries and climb the stacks like ladders to sniff books like perfumes and wear books like hats upon your crazy heads… may you be in love every day for the next 20,000 days. And out of that love, remake a world.

~Ray Bradbury~

Things I Learned Because I'm Old(er)

2011-05-21T14:06:00.001-05:00

I finally learned something of epic proportion. That Mom was right about so many things, but not about all. She attempted to shelter me, just as I do my own Sons, but there are things which must be faced and learned stoically.

When people try to hurt you, whether that is real or perceived, avoid them, she taught me. And so, in essence, I built a cocoon around myself for decades. I really have lived my life as a hermit- trusting no one but my very close family. I made myself off limits to everyone else. Judgements. It was always about judgements. I deemed everyone untrustworthy. There is a Mexican saying- referring to thieves- 'mas peca la victima que el ladron'- or something to that effect. Translated, it means that the victim ends up bearing more guilt than the actual thief because the thief knows who he stole from, but the victim begins blaming even innocent people, thinking and wondering if they were the culprit. In much the same way, I judged that others had ulterior motives in trying to get close to me. (sigh) Sad, I know

Thankfully, there is another Mexican saying which I can apply at this point. 'Mejor tarde, que nunca'- better late than never. I am grateful that I have learned the error of my ways. It's not so simple and clear cut, mind you, but I think what I am gleaning from this epiphany is that ultimately what matters in God's eyes is how you react to pain and suffering. Do you push people away, or even strike back perhaps? Or do you make an effort to see beyond the hurt to the source of that person's behavior. Love begets love. Embrace the pain, look the afflicter or affliction in the eye and do not shy back. Reach out, do your part to give back kindness and love, regardless. Not an easy thing to do when you're angry or upset, but after all, the Lord never promised it would be easy. And believe me, I'm still stuck on that one, still trying to conquer that. But I will.

Oh, and one other thing, just because you are a Christian, born again, with a new birth and outlook on life does not mean that you stop learning- or erring. More is expected of us, to be sure, but we are still in our fleshly shell- far from perfect. Our great Intecessor Jesus Christ pleads on our behalf, and that keeps us going, day in and day out.
In my case, I see my life as a journey I have been sent on, much the way Jesus was sent when he was born, with a purpose. I would like to return to my Creator having accomplished what he set me out to do. It starts with small steps, slow and steady. But I think I'm on my way.

Pretzel Time!

2011-05-04T20:35:00.004-05:00

~Note: The step by step on doing the baking soda boil can be read at this blog link.~

We have enjoyed some fabulous cool weather the last couple of days. Really wonderful when heat is the norm. And the coolness brings out the baker in me. I found a really simple recipe for pretzels in the King Arthur website which enables me to make use of my sourdough starter. Baking with sourdough is a very good thing!

And without further ado, these pictures show my progress, only wish I could share the wonderful aroma that fills the house while they bake!

A quick boil in a solution of baking soda and water brought to a boil is a technique I read from one of the commenters on the KAF thread.

Ready to be salted before baking

I didn't have pretzel salt, so I used coarse sea salt- need to find out what the difference is.

Baked and ready to eat. Good stuff!

Hope this cool weather continues. This cool baking weather!

The Lesser Of Two Evils

2011-03-23T21:54:00.000-05:00

The joy and beauty of Spring is all around me. And with my newfound energy I have been spending my days outdoors enjoying my garden and what's left of the plants after the Winter freeze. And, dare I say, I've actually been doing a bit of gardening after almost four years of neglecting to do so (since my shoulder injury and surgery).

And just when I thought things couldn't get better, our huge oak tree began releasing its cargo of pollen into the air. Thinking myself immune, because just recently the ash trees had little effect on me when they did their yearly renewal dance, I joyfully sniffed the roses which have begun to bloom. And so it is that I'm again confined indoors, Kleenex boxes in every room, with my trusty Vick's jar to soothe my nose and lips. But I say, it could be worse. Suffering from red, itchy, watery eyes and a swollen red nose is not the worst that could befall me. I should know. So may I say, this is indeed a blessing. At the very least, it's the lesser of two evils. Any other ailment would be greater, I think. That is why, I am grateful for this uncomfortable 'inconvenience'. Because although I long to be outside enjoying the cheerful chatter of the Martins and the antics of the hummingbirds which have begun to visit the nectar feeders, I know that soon this shall pass and hopefully sooner rather than later I can resume my outdoor activities. Meantime, I'll watch the beautifully bright red cardinals from the window and listen to the soft cooing of the white wing and ring neck doves from the comfort of our couch. There is indeed much to be grateful for!

The Aftermath and Winning Photo

2011-02-10T17:45:00.002-06:00

The sun has been shining brightly all day, in an almost deceptive ploy to get me outdoors. For the first time since the freeze shrouded cold front arrived, I have pretty much stayed in, and finally ventured out to water my plants. My fingers felt numb after a mere half hour. And the garden? Well, the situation isn't pretty. Except for those trees which are dormant or are evergreen, almost all the plants suffered.

We somehow got through the Winter without any real cold weather, then smack dab in February, which for us usually ushers in Springtime weather, we get these two Arctic fronts. And I'm not complaining, because I much prefer this frigid weather to the unbearable hot days ahead. But it does sadden me to see my garden so dreary and gray. On a positive note, during the Arctic blast I took a picture of one of the plants frozen in the pond and looking like a bird of paradise or even a bird in flight. My Sweetie suggested I submit it to our local Weatherman Heatwave Berler's Weather Pic of The Week contest. My photo won this past Friday, and yesterday I finally went and picked up my free $50 gift certificate to a local Chinese restaurant.

I'm reading the weather forecast, and it appears we're not out of the cold weather woods just yet. Or at least not until maybe Sunday. All I ask for is some badly needed rain, the cold doesn't bother me at all. And yet our 'cold' is nothing compared to the the northern areas of our country. Even now, I can feel it in my feet even with my soft fuzzy socks.

So, next on today's agenda is making some dough for bread. I'm hoping we can enjoy a nice loaf with tomorrow's lunch. Firing up the oven for some cookies would also feel good right about now. That and a nice cuppa Earl Grey Cream.

Heart Collage

2011-02-09T01:30:00.000-06:00

With this being February and Valentine season upon us, and their wearing such a cheerful shade of red in their jackets, I couldn't resist making a simple heart collage of my GrandSons.....so easy with a free collage maker.

A Gift For My Sweetie

2011-02-08T19:03:00.001-06:00

My order from Amazon finally arrived today. It is a gift for my Sweetie, which I got at no cost to me from Amazon, using gift cards I redeemed from Swagbucks. I've gotten so many free things using Amazon gift cards. I got an external hard drive for my Son, and a ton of scrapbook supplies for myself. It's true what they say about Amazon. You can find almost everything at Amazon.

It was a very nice weekend also, seeing as how we got to spend a little bit of time with the Grandkids. That's always a pure delight and joy for this old Abuelita!

All this in cheery contrast to the garden right now. Every plant that was not protected from the freeze is sadly wilted and probably not alive any more. I do hold hope that they will 'come out' of dormancy somehow. Most of the trees appear to be ok. We won't know for sure until warmer days ahead. Interestingly, a couple of days before the front, we heard the distinct song of the purple martins- very likely the scouts which arrive first. I sure hope they return this Spring.

My Pride and Prejudice Book Review (Brief)

2011-02-07T20:53:00.003-06:00

photo from the 1995 film version of "Pride and Prejudice"

Although written during the Regency period in England, such a long time ago, this novel speaks volumes about so many timeless elements in human nature. Written in a very clever and witty style by Jane Austen.

The author's writings reflect the times that she lived in. Born in 1775, her early death in 1817 ended what would have been a brilliant career. As her novels show, some things never change, such as the way women and families orchestrate the delicate ‘finding a mate’ dance. And certain biases or ‘prejudices’ are also timeless.

This book made me fall in love completely with all the author’s writings; another favorite being "Sense and Sensibility". Most of her books have a recurring theme of social class being of great importance when selecting a potential mate.

I completely recommend this book and in fact all the author’s novels. I can almost guarantee you will also become a fan of her writing!

Winter Sight

2011-02-02T17:45:00.003-06:00

We spent the better part of the afternoon yesterday bringing the houseplants into shelter ahead of the expected freeze. Temperatures are expected to dip into the twenties for our area on Thursday. Today felt quite chilly, with temps in the thirties! Most of our garden is comprised of tropical plants, so we had to take steps to protect them.

Our old chicken house looked like a small greenhouse with about half my potted plants. The other half sits in the garage.

The wood stack cover was perfect for covering up our tender papaya trees.

The sight of blanket covered greenery brought back memories of my Abuelita. During Winters past she also covered her tender tropicals with whatever she could find on hand- and 'colchas' or blankets always fit the bill.

This old blanket covers a few of my 'hoja santa' specimens. The one exposed on the right survived without cover overnight. I like the plants 'root beer' aroma. It's used in some Mexican cuisine recipes.

And the small goldfish also survived the overnight freeze. Hardy little guys!

We're leaving all the covers on until this spell passes. Hope the rest of the garden fares well. As for us, we're just trying to stay safe and warm indoors.

Healthy, Filling, And Easy- And Cheap!

2011-02-01T14:06:00.013-06:00

A few days ago I found a simple delicious recipe over at Food Party Blog. It looked so simple I knew it was something I could whip up fast. I made my spring rolls with frozen shrimp. To give them a little flavor, first I sauteed some crushed garlic and ginger in a little bit of sesame oil.

I leave the garlic and ginger in large coarse pieces so I can remove them easily after they've rendered their flavor into the oil. Then I add the shrimp to saute a bit.

I also added some good tamari sauce.

I'm always thinking 'layers of flavor' when I cook.

While that's cooking, I prep my filling ingredients, which can be anything you like. I've used Spinach before, but this time I only had lettuce, which is nice and crunchy. I also added thinly sliced carrots, green onions

and lots of cilantro- plus peanuts. Last time I used cucumber but I didn't care for the way it made the sauce 'watery'.

Once everything is ready to go, I begin simmering some water for the rice wrappers. It does take some practice, because they tend to curl up on you. Tongs felt cumbersome, so I just used my fingers and quickly rotate them to soften all the edges in the water then quickly place them in a plate.

And it's on to fill and roll the wrappers, like a burrito.

Don't forget the sauces in the filling!

I'm thinking these healthy treats can be made without the rice wrappers by merely wrapping your veggies in nice big lettuce leaves. It's really the sauces which give so much flavor to the rolls. I've made them with grilled chicken like the other blogger and they are equally delicious. And though they appear to be appetizers, you can really fill up on them as a meal. My family said four per person was a good amount. I fill up on one. They are just so good! Good Eats! And did I say they were cheap? The only thing I had to buy in this case was the shrimp. I think it was a one pound package for $2.97. And it was enough to feed all three of us with plenty of leftovers.

Journey

2011-01-31T22:28:00.002-06:00

I remembered. When I awoke I remembered that today is her birthday. And I had a decision to make. Do I acknowledge it, or do I stick to my decision concerning her to just- let- it- go.
I wish I could say I'm a decisive person. Sometimes I am, but sometimes I struggle. So I gave myself permission to momentarily forget about it. Then around 6Pm when we came back from running some errands, I heard a voice- maybe my conscience, maybe the Lord's voice speaking to me. What if tomorrow never comes? What if you die or God forbid she dies, and you never stopped by to wish her a Happy Birthday like you meant to? What if there is there are no more opportunities to show your faith and your belief in what you have learned about God's love?

I guess I'm a fly by the seat of my pants kinda gal. No planning necessary. I asked my Sweetie to drive me over. And all the way I kept feeling and thinking that I really didn't feel it in me, didn't feel the love, didn't feel the bond..... just like her. But I knew I just had to get there and obey the voice is all. I'll leave it up to him to provide the words or the moments. We arrived, I rang the doorbell- and she wasn't there. There! I'm off the hook! I came, I obeyed. What now?

I'm obviously still in learning mode. The journey continues.

Tilapia For Dinner

2011-01-26T20:15:00.001-06:00

A simple and easy dinner meal using one of the recipes from the Mad Hungry cookbook.

I chose the Italian fries with herbs and romano cheese. I used a mix of parmesan and romano cheese. My little one loves these potatoes, so I made them just for him. The main entree was tilapia filets, dredged in just a little bit of seasoned flour, then sauteed in a tablespoon of oil, then finished off in the oven. It's my system to keep the house from smelling of smoke from fried fish. Rounded out the meal with some steamed veggies. Simple but good.

I also prepared some striped Pangasius, which is quite similar to tilapia in taste and texture. I wanted to try it
because the fish lady at the supermarket highly recommended it. I had some hesitation about it because I understand that it's farm raised in Asia, like tilapia. My concern stems from the way many of those fish farms raise fish.... not like they would be in an American fish farm setting. There's always the fear of lax quality controls. But it is cheaper compared to fish such as salmon. I just don't care for the taste of salmon, though I've tried to 'like' it. I can't get past the very strong fishy smell and taste. But tilapia and pangasius are so sweet and mild....and inexpensive.....

Spaghetti and marinara sauce with Italian sausage and ciabatta bread is on the menu for tomorrow. I don't think I'll be posting about that though. Hopefully my next post can be about a sewing or knitting project. I'm ever hopeful.

I Like Williams Sonoma Gadgets

2011-01-23T16:36:00.003-06:00

Today's beautiful weather was perfect for firing up the grill. I was anxious to try out a gadget I bought at Williams Sonoma during their online Winter sale. It's a nifty hamburger press.

I highly recommend it, because before using it, I always had a hard time making perfectly shaped burgers. This gadget works and makes perfect burgers! They slide out easily and don't break apart. I made mine with a cheese center, then patted more meat to cover the cheese. I really like the 'grill lines' that it imprints.

Now my burgers come out thick and juicy and very evenly shaped. Sadly, the WS site shows that the press is no longer available, but hopefully they'll bring it back, because it does have good reviews. Sometimes you can also find items that are no longer available on the web site in the regular Williams Sonoma stores.

I should probably add that this is not a paid product review. I just enjoy sharing information about neat finds and such....

Looking For Mr. Inspiration

2011-01-22T20:38:00.001-06:00

Hobby Lobby's 40% off coupon ended today, so I made a dash to the store and snagged one of the first edition copies left of Sew Serendipity by Kay Whitt. The book has gone to a second printing, so I was lucky to get this one. Can I just say it's a gorgeous book? It is!

It includes full size patterns too. The inside is just eye candy for any sewing enthusiast. The projects are so pretty and feminine, and the embellishments really catch the eye.

Love these skirts!

The author was on this morning's PBS segment of Sewing with Nancy, where she demonstrated a few of her jackets. Beautiful garments made of silk fabric- utterly beautiful! I am so in awe of people like her who have a focus and who excel at their art. I wonder if that's the secret to being accomplished at anything? Stick with one thing and do it well?

I'm hoping this book will get me motivated and inspired to start sewing again. Something happened to me, and I don't know what it is, but I can't seem to just do what I love to do. Perhaps it's because my interests are so broad, I don't really have a niche. However, I can't just say I will only sew, or I will only knit, or I will stick to spinning or embroidery. I love doing all the things I have learned to do. It's the getting started that has become a bit of a challenge for me. I suspect I'm just overwhelmed. Much like if you go to the grocery store without a shopping list, and you stand there wondering, what should I cook for dinner, what should I buy to make dinner? The problem is I am still finding things I want to learn to do, still reading about other crafts and things that interest me. I need to streamline my planning and organizational thought processes. Does anyone out there ever feel this way? Like you're trying to find your way back to who you are, to what you love to do? What are the things which help you to focus on your craft or hobby?

I'm going to spend some time just savoring this book, try to really inhale the knowledge and art in it. We'll see what comes of it.

A Cold Day In The Neighborhood

2011-01-20T17:21:00.003-06:00

I love the cool brisk weather that a front brought in. Perfect for opening windows to air out the house and for listening to the chirps of the red cardinals and little finches flitting about in the yard. This time of year is great because we get a little bit more variety for our bird watching. Which reminds me, I must make a trip to the store for more bird seed.

I stepped outside to try and get a picture of the cardinals, but they didn't wait around for my camera. I did take some shots of the white wing doves, though they blend so well with the trees that it's hard to see them.

The pomelo grapefruits were plentiful this season, guess it's time to harvest them.

I should probably harvest the few sweet Royal limes we got this year. Not too many this time around.

Meyer lemons were plentiful, but the tangerine harvest was so small compared to last year.

I should probably remove the Christmas wreath. But it is a winterberry wreath, and well, it's still Winter.

I say bring on Valentine season- but not the heat!

A Baking Sort of Day

2011-01-18T21:53:00.001-06:00

I was in a baking mood today. Spurred by my desire to save a little money, or rather a lot of money I had been spending on my favorite crackers at the grocery store. I'm referring to those very thin little Australian crackers made with parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper, similar to water crackers. I just felt that paying more than $5 for a little box was a bit much. That coupled with my cheese of choice- brie- could add up to a pretty penny. I figured I could try and bake my own, or something similar at least.

Well, I did find a recipe which I hoped would replicate the little crackers I was so smitten with. My efforts produced a delightful but almost breadlike product. Not at all like the one pictured on the fresh365 photo. But I am to blame for that of course. Simply put, I veered from the recipe, as I am prone to do when I follow recipes, by tweaking it and adding semolina flour instead of the whole wheat flour as well as Pace picante sauce and some extra herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and some chives. But realy I think it was the picante sauce that contributed to the far different results.

The picante sauce added texture and color to the dough.

Adding the extra cracked peppercorns.

Fresh out of the oven. They do taste good!

And well, since I already had the oven fired up, why not bake some yummy chicken pot pies, only in empanada shape. From Lucinda Scala Quinn's book "Mad Hungry".

This recipe I did follow to the letter! (Well, at least where the pie crust is concerned)

I pretty much made the filling the same, except I also added a little bit of chopped green peppers and some peas. Also added some fresh finely diced garlic and some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. I don't think Lucinda would mind my little tweaks.

And that was my baking for today. I love the way the house smells right now. Wish I could bottle the fragrance!

Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2011-01-17T13:58:00.002-06:00

Every so often, the Lord sends down amongst us people who can only be described as angels. People of courage, and of great integrity and character. People who leave a lasting and positive mark on their fellow man's lives. Today, I am reminded of one such individual- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

If not for his contribution to our society, I hate to think what our lives would be like. And yet, with that said, there is still much to be done to remove the horrible scourge of racism right here in our own country, right here in our own back yards. This indeed is a day for honoring Dr. King and his legacy. His "I Have A Dream" is to me the most memorable of all the speeches I have heard, because it applies to all of us in the here and now:

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. And so we've come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we've come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the "unalienable Rights" of "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."

But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so, we've come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. And there will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.

The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.

We cannot walk alone.

And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.

We cannot turn back.

There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating: "For Whites Only." We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream."¹

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest -- quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.

Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.

And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of "interposition" and "nullification" -- one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; "and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together."

This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with.

With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

And this will be the day -- this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning:

My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.
Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim's pride,
From every mountainside, let freedom ring!

And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.

And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.

Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.
Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania.
Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado.
Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.

But not only that:

Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.
Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.
Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.
From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual:

Free at last! Free at last!

Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

January Lessons

2011-01-12T21:28:00.001-06:00

I am enjoying a hibernation of sorts- to a certain degree self imposed. There is something so nice about hunkering down when it's frigid cold outside. As I sat enjoying a cup of coffee with my beloved earlier today, I had an epiphany and was reminded gently by the Spirit of that beautiful Scripture "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." ~Romans 8:28.
I was feeling rather useless and impotent because on one of the first days of the new year as I was getting ready to drink my nice strong and piping hot coffee, I somehow made an unexplainable jerky movement which sent my mug flying through the air and the boiling hot elixir all over my recently healed from surgical scars belly. One area in particular has second degree burns, with a huge blister that only recently burst open. That is the area under the bandage. The rest were just first degree burns, with a few in my thigh. But when it happened, all I could think about was the setback in time and the decreased ability to perform so many of the goals I had set for myself. And so as the days have progressed I have been focused on the burn healing-which has seemed like an eternity to me.

I wasn't even sure I should post about this. I mean it wasn't that long ago, three years ago this past September that I tripped and fell causing a torn rotator cuff for which I had to undergo shoulder surgery. The down time during that injury in fact was what prompted me to begin blogging. All because I wasn't careful about walking around in the dark at full speed. I promised myself I would thereafter be very cautious in every movement and with every step that I took. So I already felt silly enough for that injury. And now this- knowing full well that any time you are around fire or hot liquids much care must be taken.What is even more amusing except that it isn't funny at all is that I received this same injury from a whole boiling pot of coffee when I was about four years old! That incident I can barely remember, but fortunately the burns were on my back, and I clearly remember my sweet Abuelita nursing me back to health. My Mother was in a sanatorium at the time- during the early 1960's when people were forcibly sent to sanatoriums if they suffered from TB. That was a lifetime ago, but it does seem like only yesterday.

I decided to blog about this injury because it can happen to anyone. I don't blame the contraption itself, because it performs exactly the way I want it to- it heats up to a boiling point for an exquisite pot of coffee just the way I like it. The pot itself is made for making expresso coffee, but I just use regular freshly ground coffee beans. Here for viewing is an example of the culprit:

Makes the best coffee ever! Just make sure you are careful about your movements when you sit down to enjoy it. That's all I'm saying.

But I digress. I mentioned an epiphany earlier didn't I? I got to thinking how this incident forced me to slow down again. I realized it felt much like being a cocoon just patiently waiting for that beautiful butterfly to emerge. And as I looked out the the window I could see the leaves on the trees blowing in the cold January air, burnished with beautiful rust and golden hues and on the brink of falling to the ground in a cycle of life and death. Likewise, I am waiting for my Savior to finish a good work in me, and whatever parts of me must suffer, I will consider it a blessing, and I will rejoice as that is what my life manual teaches me: And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. ~Romans 5: 3-5 So I know all this is not for naught. There is a purpose to all things especially when it involves God's people. Praise God for his everlasting goodness!

My Lovely Bangle

2011-01-06T15:01:00.003-06:00

I'm having a great start to my day. Our trusty USPS just delivered a little parcel from California. I was one of the winners of a bangle giveaway held by my friend Gloria. I've got several of these lovelies from Gloria's shop, so I knew I was going to be very pleased with the quality and workmanship of her product. As always, she included some nice little extras with her shipment, such as a very nice print of one of her paintings.

I think it looks beautiful on my wrist! Love the bright cheerful colors! Thank you Gloria!

She has a fantastic selection, and I know you will be very happy with your purchase- and her very reasonable prices. They also make for wonderful gifts. So head over to her site and look around, I know you'll find something you like. And remember, it's a good thing to support those artisans who work making one of a kind creations. Support the handmade movement- made in the USA!

Of Hopes and Goals

2011-01-01T19:39:00.003-06:00

First day of the New Year makes most people reflect on their plans for the future. Some call them resolutions, but I think that puts an awful lot of pressure on the psyche. To me a resolution somehow entails controlling those things which really are beyond our grasp- such as the unforeseen or unpredictable. And up until now, I made it a point never to make any. Call it the fear of failure if you will. So instead, I prefer to call them 'doable goals'.

And mine are simple: love more, walk more, eat healthier, and learn to spin fiber. To get started on learning to spin, we made a trip to the Dallas area early in December. My Sweetie took me to purchase this beauty:

Isn't she a beauty? She's a double treadle Lendrum spinning wheel. And I think I'll call her Susie.

The previous owner, a lady who I met at the Kid'n Ewe Fiber Festival back in November, was very nice about giving me all the attachments and even fiber for me to work with, plus a lesson in her home. All for a very reasonable price which is why we made the rather long trip. Learning to spin on my own is a different story. I still have not learned, but then I've been short on time to practice due to all the Holiday preparations I was busy with. But I intend to keep trying until I do learn.

I've been walking as usual, but there are days when before I know it it's dark outside, so instead I exercise on my stationary Power Rider exercise machine. It works if the weather gets rainy also. I'm just trying to keep myself moving. I must! Got to burn off those tamales I made and enjoyed for Christmas. And that spicy menudo as well as 'air bunuelos' or rosettes I made for New Year's Eve '. And today's chicken and dumplings that I made for my little one and which I enjoyed with some roasted beets, potatoes, and chayote actually propelled me to take off on my walk. If it sounds like I'm eating less than healthy, I will agree. I only make menudo once a year, and tamales maybe once every couple of years- and usually for the Holiday celebrations. I wanted to prepare foods which remind us of of our Mexican traditions. But we do try to practice portion control, regardless of the type of food. So now that the celebrations are over, onward to healthy eating, exercise, and just good thoughts and love for our fellow man. And above all, draw closer to the Lord. Through whatever God has for us in the future, I say again "Have a little faith".

Of Christmas Gifts

2010-12-22T14:19:00.001-06:00

This song and video brings the message about what Christmas should really be about. The greatest gift of all time- redemption! Thank you Father for the gift of your Son!

A Social Network Christmas

2010-12-18T20:26:00.000-06:00

I found this while surfing the web. Imagine if you will......

What a timely and clever way to tell a story. Enjoy!

Mushroom Quesadillas Video

2010-12-12T22:02:00.001-06:00

Hospitality at its simplest and best. This family offers their guests a royal banquet:
Quesadillas stuffed with locally grown mushrooms squash blossoms and epazote along with other mushroom based sides. Yummy! I am in love with the lush green scenery of Veracruz Mexico!

New Ancient Diamond

2010-12-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

I just 'rediscovered' this gem:

He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them master craftsmen and designers. ~Exodus 35:35~

I love it!

For Today

2010-11-30T13:18:00.000-06:00

All I can do is one step at a time. Not every day is great, but being alive and able to put one foot in front of the other is good. Good will do quite nicely. See? I feel better already! Above all, God is good! Note to self: Until next time- Have a little faith.

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

2010-11-23T22:41:00.001-06:00

Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! May your gatherings with family be joyful and your plates be full of the bounty and blessings the Lord gives us. If traveling, stay safe! God bless us all!

No Chile For You!

2010-11-21T16:57:00.001-06:00

I am still learning things about myself during this leg of my journey. I have learned that I'm really quite stubborn, and if left to my own devices will try and find a way to eat those things which may or may not be healthy for me. I'm learning that it's a good thing I went ahead with the bariatric surgery, or else I'd never have lost the weight, even though I kept telling myself for years that I could do it if I only just tried a little harder.

Which brings me to the title of my post. One of my favorite comedies has always been Seinfeld, and probably the funniest scene was about the 'Soup Nazi'. He owned the neighborhood restaurant where Jerry and his friends liked to go for the best soup. But you had to play by his rules or else he'd deny you your bowl of soup with a few simple words "No soup for you!" I think of that phrase every time I try and eat hot sauce, even my favorite home made salsita. Immediately I feel a very uncomfortable burning in my stomach, and then nausea sets in. And yet, try I do by tasting just the tip of a teaspoon with the delectable concoction. No chile for me! That is the title of my new life also.

I have eaten all manner of hot sauces as well as raw jalapenos, serranos, and even habaneros from the time I could understand that a contest could be won by merely being the one to eat the most chile- say around four years of age. Yes I do recall that little contest, and I emerged victorious. To me then it was a sign of victory, but now I can see that even then I was looking for attention and acceptance even in the smallest or greatest of of things- eating.

And so for decades now I have accompanied practically every single meal with something hot and spicy. I recall eating bologna sandwiches and chips and biting into huge jalapenos with every bite of my sandwich. The intense heat would transport me into a state of euphoria similar to a high- complete with an almost out of body 'floating' sensation. It would happen when I was almost at the threshold of pain from the heat, and I would close my eyes and wait for the feeling to subside I could feel the nerves at the back of my neck and head contract with the sensation. I was only eight or nine years old. Yeah, I was a jalapeno junkie.

In all truthfulness, and without a doubt, it was this very habit which greatly contributed to my overeating. One way to ease the discomfort of the heat is to bite into more food, which in turn diminishes the effects of the chile. But when you want or need that heat, you must then continue with the whole 'looping' routine. Yeah, it's problematic. I never ever had any digestive problems of any sort, so I continued along effortlessly with my 'habit'- or very compulsive behavior.

So it's no surprise that even at this stage after having had my body modified and altered I would still try to partake of the dope. But not today. Today, I made a marvelous meal of grilled fajitas and thick juicy steaks with a pot of beans for my family. I prepared corn on the cob for grilling, I diced avocados, I made the best flour tortillas I have ever made before- and I prepared a smoky salsa with roasted tomatoes, jalapenos and garlic. The best ever! I also diced fresh tomatoes, one jalapeno from our garden, onion and some cilantro for a refreshing and cool pico de gallo. All the things which precisely go so well with hot sauce. All for my family. But as for me, I decided that hot chile- whether raw or in sauce- no longer captivated me. And the other items on the menu- well, I can no longer just dig in like I used to. A few bites of protein and I'm good to go. The end.

Fiber Festival Sights

2010-11-18T10:45:00.003-06:00

Over the weekend we made a little trip to Boerne where the Kid n' Ewe Fiber Festival was held. If you know anything about me, you know that I love to spin fiber. Not that I do it very often, but the spinning bug usually bites me around this time of year. So of course this festival is one I try not to miss.
We've been going to this event for about five years now. There were lots of very nice booths with vendors bringing all sorts of goodies. Lots of knitting supplies and knit items could be had besides fiber. Even a booth showing how to make lace. So many beautiful sights to behold, but at times I was overwhelmed because I didn't quite know which way to go or what items to look at first. I felt like a kid in a candy store. There was so much to see!

This lady spinning her fiber. There were spinning wheels everywhere.

This young lady was spinning on her drop spindle fashioned from a CD.

This nice lady is making lace with some beautiful bobbins. Notice the lovely lace around her blouse and the strip of lace she is creating.

The yarns were beautiful and of course fibers both raw and in bats and rovings were plentiful. I was a happy camper bringing home my little stash of bunny angora, mohair, and flax fiber.

So why would I want fiber when all I have is a drop spindle? Well, it's my belief that I will someday own a spinning wheel and I want to be ready with fiber for that day. Always hopeful! Until next time, have a little faith!

More Tags

2010-11-16T18:50:00.002-06:00

Lots to do but I'm slowly getting items checked off my list. Listed some of the tags I've been working on at the shop. I call these my line of Scripture Items. It was fun making these, and even if no one picks them up, I know I can surely use them.

Also an oldie but goodie for Christmas- Feliz Navidad!

More to come soon!

Pizza Photos

2010-11-12T11:27:00.001-06:00

Now that I'm using my regular computer, I can post the pictures of the pizzas I made last month and which I mentioned in a post Made with my sourdough starter and using all purpose and semolina flours, we liked it. We being my little one and myself. Sweetie is not partial to blue cheese or figs on a pizza. I say every once in a while, it's nice to eat something different, as long as it's made at home.

But more than anything it's about the satisfaction of turning this

into this

And finally into this

and this

A regular and more familiar pizza for my Sweetie- pepperoni and cheese

Something for everyone- and no delivery fees.

Tribute To Servicemen and Their Spouses

2010-11-11T09:25:00.001-06:00

I really got to thinking about the sacrifices that our men and women in the armed forces and their spouses make day in and day out after reading Kim's last blog entry. With this being Veteran's Day, I felt it important to write myself a reminder of sorts that there is so much I take for granted, like the liberties and privileges we enjoy in our country because of those serving in the military.

I'm pretty certain Kim doesn't remember me, but I met her about two years ago at a yarn shop where she worked before she moved out of state. At the time she and her Husband and children lived in a military base there in San Antonio. Kim is someone who I'll never forget, because she gave me a wonderful gift: she taught me how to spin fiber on a drop spindle. For a brief few minutes, she took time out of her busy schedule to sit down with me and show me how to manipulate fiber to make a single ply of yarn. From there, my love of spinning was born. She is an accomplished knitter- I've seen photos of her beautiful knit items in her blog, and I wanted to see what she was up to and what gorgeous new creations she had made. I paid a visit her blog. A lot has been going on in her life.

As I read about the difficulties and challenges she faces while her Husband is deployed, I was able to see that for those of us who live in this country as civilians, our daily struggles pale in comparison. In her blog post, she wasn't trying to solicit sympathy or be a hero, she was merely sharing in a few paragraphs what her days have been like. As the spouse of a Serviceman who is away serving his country, she has to be the problem solver and the strong one for her babies. That coupled with the fact that she has to maintain the family unit without family nearby is just something I can't even imagine I could do. Yet thousands of men and women like her have to do just that in these difficult times. And then I think about her Husband, who must surely have the angst of worrying about his family all while being in constant danger himself.

I pray their little boy gets better, that the family stays intact and blessed, and that the Lord continue to give her strength and courage. And I pray that her Husband soon returns safe to his family. I pray that these wars and conflicts end quickly, so that our men and women who serve can return as well to their families. May the Lord bless them all. May the Lord hear our prayers!

Crafting Around

2010-11-10T22:20:00.005-06:00

Note: I'm not sure why the pictures posted are not centered. When making the entries they show up correctly.

My Sweetie finally had some time to work on our main computer

and was able to get it back up and running. Which was a really good and timely thing, because I needed to upload some of the cards and tags I've been working on to the shop. I'm going to have to get cracking on playing catch-up. The down time on the main computer really set me back on getting my things listed. I'll be listing a few more things over the next couple of days. It's a common belief among Etsy folk that 'tis better to list over several days as opposed to all at once.

This time of year really puts me in a crafting mood. So much love is put into creating even the simplest of things. Those little details which evoke wonderful childhood memories about the Holidays give me so much joy!

Postcard Holiday Tags- what could be nicer and more versatile? I may just send out a few of these as Christmas cards- no ribbon of course.

A little bit of Thanksgiving cheer and cuteness can go a long way with a cute birdie like this.

And with a simple message to remind us what it's all about. The little things which mean so much.

Like Us!

2010-11-08T14:39:00.002-06:00

Fellow bloggie friend and hip craftster Michell of Girl In Air has created a Facebook page to help promote a few of our Etsy shops, which I think is a wonderful idea. The page is called Me And My Etsy Friends and I'm asking anyone who reads this blog to please visit the site and click on the "Like" button. Once the page hits 200 fans we will be having weekly giveaways. We're just starting out, but we know that with your help it won't be long before we can really start to have fun with one day only sale promotions and our own giveaways. More importantly, your help in participating helps to support the handmade and homemade crafting movement. There are so many talented artisans whose work can only be appreciated through venues such as Etsy, and we hope this Facebook page can be instrumental in bringing some of those creations to you in the comfort of your home. And as they say, for your Holiday shopping let your fingers do the walking!

Visit our page and Like us. We hope to see you there!

Happy With My Wins!

2010-10-06T17:33:00.001-05:00

A few days ago I entered a giveaway on the Ranger blog for a chance to win a set of 12 Perfect Pearls Mists which retail for around $60. I buy a lot of their products for my tag and cardmaking hobby. Yesterday, I was notified that I was one of the winners. They posted the announcement of the three winners and I have to say it is so thrilling to see my name on the list! Just one more thing to be super excited and happy about these days!

On another note, on my visit to the bariatric Dr. today I was very pleased to find that I have lost 30 pounds since the surgery six weeks ago. That added to the 18-20 pounds I lost before the surgery gives me a total weight loss of almost 50 pounds! The change in eating habits has certainly paid off. Walking has surely contributed greatly to the weight loss. Consistency is also crucial.

I've been away from the computer keeping busy with my first love- baking. I've brought my sourdough back to life and boy is it strong this time around! I've finally found a really trustworthy recipe I can rely on for making sourdough pizza with no commercial yeast whatsoever. I like that! Although I can only enjoy a thin slice, I enjoy making pizzas quite a lot. I recently discovered a great video/tutorial site from the New York Times which features an amazing young lady who is able to churn out great recipes from a tiny New York City apartment. She shared a video of an amazing pizza she made with figs, bacon, caramelized onions, and gorgonzola cheese. I made said pizza yesterday using my sourdough and it was probably the best pizza I have ever made. I highly recommend her recipe- although I would suggest using her commercial yeast dough recipe- unless of course you happen to have your own sourdough starter. I'll be sure to post pictures of my pizza soon, when I get our computer from the shop.

And now, I'm off to get ready for my support group meeting. Until next time, have a little faith!

The Better To Feel His Love

2010-09-14T20:50:00.000-05:00

My dear friend Beverly wrote such a beautiful post, I just know she was led of the Lord to write it. And I think perhaps he had me in mind to read it. As of late, I've been having a few physical struggles, none too great, but difficult nonetheless. So it's wonderful to read something that speaks to the heart of all our struggles, that feeling you get when you feel as though no one can possibly understand what you're going through. And the answer is simple, it's all right there in his word, in his book of love and sacrifice- the Holy Bible.

But what is absolutely awesome to me is how pain and suffering can bring us closer to our creator and to his love- if we only pause to think of him and to try to listen to his voice. And even more awesome is the way he uses people to bring the messages we need to hear to increase our faith and our growth. Even through cyberspace! Another sweet friend, Diane also gave me the words I needed to feel encouraged in one of her comments.

And so it is that once again, I feel encouraged and motivated to write another post, this time to share that I just walked 15 blocks again! Oh what a feeling! It's just a sort of note to myself to remind me that yes I can do this! This morning I was crying feeling sorry for myself, and here I am, full of hope again. God is good!

Journey Update

2010-09-12T20:31:00.001-05:00

This journey has definitely not been easy! And it's only been three weeks since the surgery. In that time, I am trying to adapt to the limitations of my stomach- and it seems as though it's all very much still about eating. Let's face it- we can't get away from food and the perils thereof, no matter how much we wish we could. There are days when I think if only I could just not eat at all, I think I could do that, just for the sake of not having all the new 'learning' issues. But then I start to feel shaky and nauseous and I know that is due to blood sugar levels; therefore, to dining I must go! In the weight loss department, I will be honest and say that my weight has pretty much remained steady. That might sound good, but I'm supposed to be losing weight, and I'm not. I will be at the same weight for a week, lose a pound or two, then go back to the same weight again. So while that's not inherently bad, because I haven't gained weight, it's also not a sign of real progress. I've also learned that food no longer gives me pleasure. Now I really do eat because I HAVE to, not just because I have a craving. In fact, more often than not, I can't even enjoy food anymore. Most of the time it causes me discomfort if I don't chew properly. I also am not supposed to drink anything with my meals. That just takes the whole fun out of eating! I well remember how nice a big tall glass of limeade full of ice went with my meals, or a big tall glass of iced tea. Well, that is a thing of the past. The other night I had a small craving for some root beer from Sonic. As my Sweetie drove up to the window to order a small root beer for us to share as opposed to the Route 44 I used to drink, I remarked how this was the land of no more for me. I can never look at fast food establishments and think of the things I can order. No more. The land of no more. I just want to arrive at the land of people who can cross their legs. I'll be happy with that. Fast food is so not worth it any more.

In the second front- exercise- I am happy to say I am being more successful with that. In fact what motivated me to write this update is the fact that I just walked 15 blocks! That may not sound like much for those who walk or jog miles, but to me, it's monumental! Prior to the surgery, I could only walk 3 or 4 blocks, and I'd be huffing and puffing all out of breath. Now, I come back drenched in perspiration, but with a steady, even breathing pattern. I attribute this newly found ability not only to a lighter weight on my shoulders, but to the use of a handy little gadget- my teensy tiny Ipod Shuffle. It's weightless, does not interfere with my movements, and the rhythm of the music helps my gait and steps to be better coordinated. I highly recommend it if you're about to try walking. Today, I had to charge it, so I used my IPhone's IPod, but I didn't like it as much as the shuffle. Whatever the reason, I'm feeling great! It is true about exercise making you feel good. I think that feeling comes when you don't overdo it though. Your body tells you just how much it can endure, and you should never try to go beyond that, at least not when you're starting out.

I am also finding that attending support meetings give me a great sense of inspiration. They are a tremendous resource of information and guidance for staying focused and for being successful. They really do jump start your energy when you start to feel less than successful. So I intend to keep up with that. My family also helps, or course, because they know me better than anyone on this earth, and their encouragement is priceless. But my greatest source of strength is God. He guides me, he helps me, he touches the hearts of the people around me. To him be all praise and honor and glory!

And Then There Were Seven

2010-08-28T22:40:00.000-05:00

I have wonderful memories of the Saturday just before my surgery. That day, we had planned on leaving quite early for a little getaway with all the family to Corpus Christi. However, since my surgery was on Monday, I had to get the last batch of necessary lab work done no later than 48 hours prior to the surgery, so there was no way I could have gotten it done in the preceding days. So around 7am I went to the hospital to get that done and out of the way. Then off to the beach we went!

Funny and wonderful how our little family has increased. First the two of us with our two boys, then a beautiful daughter-in-law, and now two adorable little boys who fill us with joy. My eldest Son and his family had rented a room at a hotel/resort right next to the beach, so we just drove up and met with them.

It was a beautiful day, albeit hot, with a brilliant blue sky and only a few soft puffy clouds visible beyond the horizon. A perfect day for being at the beach, and our first real getaway with our youngest Son in quite a while.

It wasn't easy to keep from thinking about the upcoming ordeal that I knew would not be easy. It wasn't easy to shoo away the thoughts of my mortality, wondering if I would ever have sweet moments like this with my family again. It wasn't easy at all. But then I would see the faces of my loved ones, and I knew then, that no matter what lay ahead, this made it all worth it.

So I decided, right then and there, no drama, no tears, no sadness. Just live the moment and enjoy the blessings.

Notwithstanding, the trip did not erase the questions which have plagued me for years. There will always be moments in time when everyone asks why things have to be the way they are. For me it was why couldn't I have a normal weight with a normal physique? Moments where you wonder how in the world did I get myself into this mess? As an obese person, you ask and you wonder how food ever became such an issue and of so much importance in your life. You look at people and you wonder how is it that they are able to maintain a normal body without the constant cravings that you try every day to fight off. Is it genetic? I am the only 'fat' person in my whole family. I heard once that my biological Father's Mother was a large woman. Well, I'm petite, but the pounds really show on my small frame. Is it the environment of poor quality foods which are so abundant and more affordable than healthy food?

And so I'm off to try a new chapter in my life; a chapter full of hope for attaining a normal weight. The sun never sets on my hopes. They are always full of faith and knowledge that whatever the final outcome of this whole journey, it is in God's hands.

And I will work very hard to reach my goals. Because so much is riding on this.

On The Other Side- I Made It!

2010-08-26T19:00:00.004-05:00

Back in May, I wrote a somewhat cryptic post, which left a few of my friends here puzzled and wondering what I was writing about. I apologize for sounding so vague. At the time I was not ready to share all my fears. I also was not certain that I could actually go through with the ordeal I was contemplating to undergo. I chose to chronicle my journey. The following is my contribution to fill in the gaps since that post. I hope the information will also be of help to anyone contemplating bariatric surgery. This is a long post, the better to journal my experiences:

I think that henceforth, my life will be a tale of either before or after the surgery I just put myself through. I use the term 'put myself through' because technically, it was not an absolute necessity, and I could have opted out and kept on living as before. Up until the moment they were wheeling me to the operating room I was crying, desperately wanting to scream "I don't want to do this!". I knew I was seconds away from the slumber of anesthesia, with no voice or say to add to anything that happened in the next moments of my life.

For almost two years, I studied and researched bariatric surgery, going back and forth between 'yes I want to do this', and 'no this is just too darn drastic for my taste'. Sometime during that phase, a bariatric surgeon opened an office here in town, and I went to my second Bariatric Seminar. I had attended one in San Antonio because that was the closest I would have been able to go for the procedure. Now the surgery was available in my city, but even then I was not convinced. That particular physician's route to surgery for his patients required a pretty long amount of time, as you had to be under a nutritionist's care for months, as well as undergo all the required exams and paperwork, before the surgery could be performed. And then another Surgeon opened offices as well, in another local Hospital. I attended the first of his Seminars this past April, after a slew of television commercials showing many patient success stories. I proceeded to attend several support meetings. I wanted to meet and talk to those patients, to ask them questions. The most prominent in my mind was the level of pain, and to know how they decided among the three types of surgery available. I learned that gastric bypass is the most drastic of the three, but the most successful route for consistent and permanent weight loss. The other problem I saw with it was that because the procedure rendered your digestive system with gastrointestinal malabsorption problems, thus you would have to take multivitamins for the rest of your life. The lap band was something I would not have considered, because it made for having to make multiple trips to the Dr.'s office for readjusting. The next option, a gastric sleeve, sounded more like something I could look at. That procedure called for removing about 2/3 of the stomach, with the remainder left shaped like a slender, banana shaped 'sleeve'. Hence the name. The down side to that procedure, was that weight loss could cease if enough caloric content was eaten, however small the amount of food. The pros were that it was not as invasive (well it is invasive) as a bypass, and one only need to take vitamins for a year. All three procedures were laparoscopic, meaning the Surgeon uses robotic like tools to make small incisions in the abdominal area as well as for the whole procedure. This translates to faster healing of the wounds, but certainly not an absence of pain, as I was soon to find out. I knew that whichever procedure I chose, it had to be coupled with exercise in addition to eating a healthier diet. But in going back to the subject of how long the whole process took from beginning to end I would have to say it was brief and fast. My Lab work was done in late May, and the remaining exams and appointments were completed by early July. My surgery date was August 16, so it took less than 3 months from initiating the process to the day of surgery.

One other requirement for the surgery was that I had to lose 5% of my weight before surgery. About two weeks before surgery I was told I had to lose a little more. Between the start of my journey into surgery and the day of surgery, I lost about 18 lbs. It doesn't sound like much, but to me, it's substantial. My experience is unique, and I know every one's is different. A couple of days before surgery, to add to the discomfort of the whole experience, I started my monthly cycle. I was mortified, because I wondered how I could possibly lean forward to change pads and undergarments- not to mention showering! The thing that kept going through my mind was what if I rupture the stitches and staples! Believe it or not, as hard and painful as it was, I somehow got through all that.

I did suffer before the surgery. I was a mess of nerves and anxiety. The thing which kept me sane was the thought that I had to do this for my family. I know everyone said to me I should do this for myself. But realistically, if I hadn't cared enough about my health before to stop overeating, I wasn't about to go under the knife for 'my health' either. I knew my focus had to be on what I loved most next to my Creator: my family. I knew they wanted and needed a healthier Wife/Mom/Grandma in their lives. They understood even better than I did that I was a very unhappy camper with a poor quality of life. I drew strength from their encouragement to go through with the surgery. It was my beloved Husband who stood by me through every moment prior, during, and after. And even now, continues to help me in all the things which I could not possibly do on my own.

Of the things which lead up to the day, I will write about on another post. For now, I will share that when I awoke from the anesthesia, I immediately felt pain. I could only moan softly, and it felt like even breathing hurt. I remember hearing other women moaning in the recovery room. I assume some of them had also undergone the same surgery. The Dr. who performed the surgery usually operated on Mondays and Tuesdays, doing about 5 operations a day. I believe I was the last one on that Monday last week. Thankfully, I would doze off intermittently, but then awake to the realization that I was in pain and discomfort. I barely remember finally being wheeled to my room, where my Husband was waiting. After a few minutes, a nurse came in to instruct me that I any time I wished I could press the little 'morphine' pump to release the pain killer. It was set to release only the amount needed. I barely remember it, but I know I did press that little button a few times! When my eldest Son and his family came in, I instantly felt exponentially better. Just the sight of my two little Grandsons provided relief. I could actually talk! Funny how love is such a powerful pain killer.

My surgery took place around 2:30PM last Monday. My Sweetie tells me I was brought to my room around 4:30PM. One of the things which causes great discomfort is a buildup of air in the abdominal area. I'm told they fill your stomach with air to check for signs of leakage. But I'm not too clear on that, so I may be mistaken. In any case, it wasn't until about 9PM that I asked to go to the bathroom to relieve my bladder, which was full due to all the liquids from the I.V. I then told my Sweetie I should probably walk to relieve the gas buildup, since I was already up anyway. And so it was that each time I got up during the night to go to the bathroom, I would walk the hallways. It was so painful, and I remember walking so slow, barely creeping along. One of the things I had worried about prior to surgery was the knowledge that I would not be allowed to drink water or any fluids until the day after surgery. I worried because I normally always drank a ton of water. I just really loved drinking water and ice! And I worried that I would be dying of thirst. Interestingly, I never once felt thirsty, I think because I was just in so much pain. Therefore before I was allowed to drink any liquids I had to undergo a test the next day. I had to drink a vile tasting liquid, then stand in front of an x-ray type machine, and told to swallow. The xray doctor would then examine those pictures and then report to the Dr. if there were any leaks in the stomach. Once I got clearance, my first meal there consisted of chicken broth, jello gelatin, and water.

I was released later that second day, but not before a visit from the Dr and the nutritionist. Once home, that first week all I could take were broths and juices. I was instructed to keep myself well hydrated and to drink plenty of water. It wasn't until the fourth day that I actually felt better. And every day since then I've had a lot of improvement. I try to walk a lot, and to drink plenty of fluids. I've continued to lose weight, but not as fast as I would like since beginning to eat soft food. The real test will be when I am free to eat 'real' food. For now I'm just happy to be able to say I made it to the other side of the anesthesia and the surgery. I did worry that I might never wake up from that. I also know that in the moments before the surgery I could have been braver and called the whole thing off. But I opted instead to just commend myself to the Lord, and let him operate on my behalf. I am thankful that he did. Now, I pray the Lord will see me through everything that lays ahead always and throughout my days on this Earth.

Ode To My Abuelita

2010-08-06T17:00:00.002-05:00

"You want to come to the beach with me Grandma?"

What is an Abuelita? She is that old woman who bears gifts and treats when you see her, whose eyes are always twinkling with love, and whose gray hair shines like spun silver. She is that solid tree under whose shelter you run when Mommy and Daddy sound too stern to bear. You know she can never say no to your requests. And you cry with so much sadness when you say goodbye after a long or even a very short visit. She is the reason you always pray to God that she will be around for many, many years- at least until you're all grown up, so the pain won't be so great when the final goodbye must be said. You know she has walked many a mile in the scorching heat to bring you the best ice cream she can afford. She always had coins in her pocket for your afternoon snack- those tasty tostadas or mango or cucumber on a skewer, all liberally sprinkled with lime juice and chile powder. And during those long ago dog days of Summer, you could always count on her for a refreshing and icy cold paleta or raspa- meaning popsicle or snow cone. She would set up the washtub and fill it with water, your favorite bath in the world, just so you could jump in for a cooling dunk on those hot days. And during the Winter, she would bundle you up, and make sure there was plenty of wood or coals in the fire to keep you warm.

Fast forward fifty years later. Here I am with two precious Grandbabies of my own. I so want to be just like my Abuelita. And you know what? I think I'm getting there. Now that they've begun to talk, I am relishing every moment I am able to spend with them. The sweetest word to an Abuelita's ears? Grandma! My little munchkins are not bilingual just yet, so they're only able to speak English, but I like the word Grandma so very much! The word Abuelita may have to be learned a little later. The word Grandpa also thrills me beyond words! What is it about these two little human beings that they are able to wrap my heart around their little fingers? When I was growing up I always heard that you love your Grandchildren more than your own children. In my youthful ignorance, I could not understand that. The fact is, you love them just as much as your own, only now there is a sweetness so undescribable in the love you feel. I think it's the aftertaste of wisdom. A wisdom which tells you that they won't always be little and helpless. That soon they will be fledglings- testing their wings and their limits. That time is short and fleeting. And that there is but just enough time to pass on as much love and kindness and goodness that you possibly can. Life gives enough of the other things, Your station and your calling and your duty is to pass on those things which you hope will impact their lives in a positive way. Their parents will too of course, but they have so much responsibility and weight to bear, that sometimes along the way, it's easy to lose track of those things which matter most. It's the same for ALL parents. As Grandparents, I just want us to add even more good things to their lives- a sort of complement and enhancement. I want to do what my Abuelita did. She provided so many wonderful memories, and they did serve a very useful purpose. They helped to soften the blows of life. Through all the difficult times, her love and the memories of her kindness confirmed in me that there really are good people, that God really does love me, and that I came from good stock. A good genetic pool. Oh, maybe not poets or scientists or playwrights- but people with a good heart. I do believe that is what God wants of us, among other things. And I want Elias and Owen to always know that. Already Elias has shown he too has a good heart. He did call me on the phone to tell me "I'm feeling much better Grandma. You want to come to the beach with us?" Not many adults will take the time to let their Parents know they are feeling better when they've been sick so they won't worry. But my precious little three year old nietecito did.

Filling In The Gaps

2010-07-31T20:02:00.000-05:00

I'm constantly finding new and interesting things on the internet. Just found out I can earn some pennies merely by using Twitter. I'm not greedy, so a dollar earned here and there I feel is a good thing. I think that finding an honest way to make a little revenue is nothing to be ashamed of. I don't let it take over my life, I merely make use of the tools at hand whilst doing what I come online to do anyway. If I'm going to search, I will use Google, but will also use Swagbucks for a chance to increase my gift card stash. If I'm going to Tweet, I might as well take a moment to tweet for a sponsor. It's all about taking an extra minute or two and then just letting the income build up. It will be a slow process perhaps, but I'm not in a hurry, so it's ok. I guess I want to feel that as a housewife I can contribute a little to the budget, even if it's not a lot. So for now at least, I'm enjoying doing these little tasks. Very soon, I won't be able to be much on the computer, but for now, I'll have a little fun. I expect I'll make a post when I'm on the other side of the ordeal, and I can fill in all the gaps and holes I've left behind from not blogging consistently. Please just humor me. Someone once said that life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get. As long as it's fun, and especially if it includes some chocolate, it's all good. This journey we're on is like being on an airplane. You have to wait for the end of the ride, cause you can't just get up and jump out a window. You sit there patiently and quietly (well, maybe not so quietly) trying to find things to occupy your mind and your time. The trick is to make sure those 'things' are good and positive and worthwhile. All along you hope that better things await you when the ride/trip does finally end.

Oh my! I'm just full of metaphors today, aren't I? Well, I haven't blogged in a while, but I will say that I've been keeping myself busy working on creating the neatest little tags and greeting cards. Still haven't gotten my sewing inspiration back, but I have faith it will all come back to me when I'm in a better state of mind. I seriously want to post pictures of my little projects, but I've been too lazy to take pictures. I will surely do so soon. Until next time, have a little faith.

Of Things That Touch My Heart

2010-07-17T04:33:00.000-05:00

Earlier, I happened upon an article in the newspaper that I knew I simply had to follow up and try to find the video. It wasn't front page news, just a small article about a Jewish Holocaust survivor who after 63 years was able to visit the Auschwitz death camp where he had been a prisoner. The wonderful thing about the story is the fact that he was able to go there again with his Grandchildren! And to dance upon the soil which had been the victor of his nightmares, no doubt. I was touched deeply at this fine example of the triumph of the human spirit.The music selected for this video is perfect-the better to depict what it is to be a true survivor. I viewed the video with tears running down my face, because I fully comprehend the significance of this victory dance. I could sense and feel the mixture of joy and sorrow- a bittersweet illustration of being able to still smile and laugh and dance after all the pain endured. I cannot even begin to imagine being able to look back at the horror which he lived in the flesh, with such strength and dignity. I hope the video goes viral and millions are able to see it. We must never forget.

Se Parece A Sara

2010-06-27T20:59:00.002-05:00

Se parece a Sara, a mi pequena hermana, con su mirada dulce
Y sonrisa fragil. En los anos pasados, en el mar del olvido,
Se quedaron palabras, momentos, se quedaron recuerdos.

Se olvidaron las risas, y secretos de ninas
Los momentos de hermandad, que jamas se borraran.
Permanecen retratos, permanecen juguetes, que a traves de los anos,
Se cubren de polvo, o se rompen por maltrato.

Me pregunto si en ese entonces, supiera lo que hoy sabemos,
Que aun el llamado de la sangre, se calla con el dolor
Y razona la consiensa, que la culpa no es de nadie,
Cuando las cosas asi se dan.

Y la pintura del artista, trajo a mis recuerdos,
a esa nina tan bonita, a mi hermana, mi hermanita Sara.
~YayaOrchid~

Poetic Judgment

2010-06-04T21:10:00.003-05:00

"Choosing" by George Frederick Watts (1817-1904)

She should have,
She ought have,
She must have,
But she didn't.

Didn't feel the bond, didn't feel the love
Didn't care to stay, didn't want to care.
Once the lightness was felt, the emptyness revealed,
the freedom from the burden, the release from the obligation,
There was no turning back.

Life awaited, youth beckoned, and new opportunities, rose into view.
Few can refuse to live life unfettered,
When hope and youth cling weakly on a battered thread,
Tossed about by the relentless wind.

No questions asked,
No questions remain,
No judgement for choices,
No rancor for pain.

Life goes on, without missing a beat.
The world still revolves, the tides still come ashore.
All measured in years, or measured in tears,
The worth of a life, whether cherished or not.

~YayaOrchid~

Proof Is In The Pudding

2010-05-31T20:03:00.001-05:00

Told ya Swagbucks was legit! This is footage from an NBC affiliate in Atlanta:

I had to share this again, though I had said I wouldn't because the site really has become very popular.
I know people have apprehensions thinking it's a scam or a spammy site. It's a very legitimate site which earns you digital dollars which translate to real dollars when you redeem them. I've chosen to redeem mine for Amazon gift cards, and already I've got $120 since I started in December. It's not a lot, but it's also money I wouldn't have if I had gone on only using the regular search engines like Google or Yahoo. This one pays you to search! You really should give it a try, you have nothing to lose but you'll have the chance to gain some swag for your Holiday shopping. Click on my link in the left sidebar or the link at the start of this post. If you do decide to join, email me and I will give you a bunch of tips to help you earn those Swagbucks faster.

The Journey Begins

2010-05-25T20:18:00.000-05:00

And so begins another phase. The steps are tiny and hesitant- quite unsteady and unsure. Yet every journey whether only begun or finished starts with the first step. Time will tell if this is one which will be finished. Sometimes it feels as though I'm grasping at straws and flailing my arms desperately trying to find that life saving flotation device.
That is why I have not mentioned this before to anyone. I don't know yet what the outcome will be. But then, does anyone? This is the week when it all begins for me. And I'm scared, yes I am. I'm also full of
hope.

Samples and Saving Money

2010-04-22T23:27:00.001-05:00

I found this great website, It's All Free Online, which has links to various freebies you can send off for. The site also has a Facebook page where you are more likely to find all the newest offers daily. I think it's a great way to sample products before you buy them. It's also a great way to stretch those budget dollars. Aren't we all looking for ways to save a little money? This is just a small sampling of the items I've received thus far:

It's so nice to receive a package in the mail every day!

The fact is there are actually several sites that offer similar promotions. Some sites are nice to sign up for if you like to clip coupons. I usually clip coupons from the Sunday flyers in our newspaper. I don't want to have to use up our printer ink to print out coupons. For our printer at least, ink cartidges are very expensive. Although now there are some really nifty IPhone apps that allow you to have the cashier just scan the coupons off your phone. Neat! I haven't tried that yet, although I believe I do have an app for that.

It just takes a few minutes to fill out the forms for these samples. I hope the links are useful to others as they've been for me.

Nopalitos and Other Ramblings

2010-04-07T22:22:00.000-05:00

I finally did it! I actually went and cut some pencas de nopal, or cactus paddles, fresh off the plant, myself! That of course is not the challenging part. Removing the needles is. And really, I have to say that the cactus I have growing in my garden are rather tame compared to those growing in the wild. Mine are what some would call 'finos' or fine because they have few needles. These are the kind which produce the deliciously sweet fruit called 'tunas'. The ones in the wild produce fruit which is only very slightly sweet. I was lucky in acquiring a specimen of the variety I have.

I proceeded to look through some YouTube videos to learn how to remove the spines. Tried to do it just being careful with my left hand, and holding the knife in my right hand to remove the pesky needles. Ouch! They got me anyway! So back again to watching the videos. I saw in one how a young lady was wearing some latex gloves. Lucky for my my Sweetie had some in his briefcase from work. So I wore one on my left hand, and held the knife with my ungloved right hand. I then proceeded to scrub the paddles with the knife at an angle, and the needles easily fell off. Also worked the other side. Then I removed the outer edge along the whole perimeter of the paddle. Done! After finishing my stack, it was merely a matter of carefully rinsing them and putting them in a pot to boil. A few minutes later I drained them and proceeded to use them in my recipe for Nopales with Egg and Chorizo. I know I just recently posted about cooking nopales. But this was extra special for me because I harvested these myself! I learned something new! That's what brings me joy. Learning. And let me tell you, chorizo is good with just about anything, even pasta. Maybe next time I'll show my recipe for that.

I also made a simple side of pinto beans with Mexican Queso Fresco.

Made by simply cooking onions, sliced jalapeno peppers, garlic, and finally a couple of chopped tomatoes in a little bit of oil, to which the beans are added and brought to a simmer. Last some diced white cheese is added, along with a little bit of cilantro. Very nice with the nopalitos. Peasant food at its finest! The chorizo gave us just enough 'meat' to feel satisfied with an otherwise meatless meal. And don't forget how nice flour tortillas go with this!

On a different note, I just realized this is actually my 301st post. It feels nice to see that I've stuck with blogging because many times I've wanted to just close it up and forget about it. I'm going to try and challenge myself to stick with it until at least post #500! We'll see how that goes. So until next time happy blogging!

Adoro!

2010-04-01T01:59:00.003-05:00

Ever since I can remember, I have loved the songs by Mexican Composer Armando Manzanero. I was looking through YouTube and found several of them, some sung by other artists as well. I have to say I was surprised to find this duet he did with Placido Domingo in front of the Chichen Itza ruins. What surprised me was hearing him sing a few stanzas in Maya language. He explains in the beginning that his Grandmother never spoke Spanish, and that all his interaction with her was in Mayan. What a beautiful story! What a giant of a man in spite of his short stature! This happens to be one of my favorite if not my all time favorite song. Yes, I'm an incurable romantic! Enjoy!

And this would've been another favorite-oh but there are so many of his songs which are absolutely beautiful! The title is "Somos Novios" which means 'We're Boyfriend and Girlfriend', only it sounds so much more formal and romantic in Spanish.

And back again to 'Adoro' because I like this version better.

This is what happens when you stay up late. You blog because during the day there never seems to be enough time to do so.

Cooking and Swagsurfing

2010-03-30T20:42:00.001-05:00

Today I prepared a recipe from a fellow bloggie friend Nathan. His recipe for fricassee chicken turned out to be a keeper! I provide no photos of my own, so please go over to his blog to have a look. Very similar to Mexican Arroz con Pollo, but sans the rice. I did however make a side of white rice, Cuban style, just like Nathan makes it. What a delicious meal! As always, I tweaked a couple of things, by adding mushrooms and thyme for added flavor. Other than that, I stayed true to the recipe.

It does seem as though almost all of my recent blog entries have been about cooking. Which is a good thing, because it simply means I have been inspired by so many in the world of internet blogging. And of course, since I'm already on the computer anyway, of course I also have to do a little bit of swagsurfing while I'm at it. Doesn't hurt to pad up that little nest egg with Swagbucks every chance I get.

What shall I blog about next? Probably about books or maybe sewing. Or my favorite topic: the Grandkids! But first, a bit of housework awaits me.

Cooking with Yucca Flowers

2010-03-24T17:11:00.000-05:00

This post would have looked perfect for St Patrick's Day. All because it' sooooo......green. My pictures are anyway. A couple of days ago Sweetie and I had a late breakfast, aka, brunch consisting of nopalitos which I had in the fridge. Upon further thought, I decided to add a few more ingredients, because that's just how I roll. I'm always looking to add more layers of flavor to my meals. Our little herb garden had some nice cilantro ready for cutting, and I also found some dandelion weeds. Yes, I also cut some weedy greens which were growing nicely in the garden. I wish I had found some quelite or lamb's quarters to add more greenery to my little dish. I also cut some nice spinach leaves, just a few, and mixed in a very few epazote leaves as well. Brought everything inside, and rinsed all the leaves thoroughly. Then I remembered I also had a flower stalk from a wild yucca that Sweetie had brought from the ranch a couple of days before. I had already cleaned and rinsed it, and separated all the little white petals and stored them.

While sauteeing some onions and garlic cloves, I parboiled the nopalitos and then drained out the water. Next, into the pan went all the ingredients, nopalitos and all, and carefully seasoned with salt and pepper. I added some beaten eggs, and tada! Brunch was served! You then decide if you want to eat with a fork, or you can make some nice little tacos. If made with flour tortillas, around here the tacos are called 'mariachis'. Cute name for any taco made with flour tortillas.

This photo is more of a closeup to show the yucca petals, which show as bright green, almost like little pieces of green onions. They do have an unusual taste, they remind me of what steamed cabbage tastes like. A product from nature and the wild- and they're free!

It's just something a little different from the norm we are used to eating. Sometimes we take for granted that there are lots of edible things in our surroundings which can be put to use in our cooking. As long as they are not full of pesticides or chemicals, they're pretty safe to eat. You just have to know what they are. Around here, nopalito season is in full swing. There are so many tasty recipes you can make with them. Many people use them in salads as well. It's always a good idea to try and grow your own. But to use them, you have to know how to remove the prickly needles. I still haven't mastered that technique yet. So I buy mine from the grocery store already peeled and sliced. They're not expensive per se, but they're not cheap either. That's why this year I'm going to try and learn how to do the prepping myself.

IPhone and Azares

2010-03-21T02:03:00.000-05:00

Things have been keeping me occupied for the most part. Things which require an awful lot of my time and attention- and which keep me from blogging. One of them, a very recent acquisition, is this handy little device:

Just one of my feeble attempts to try and stay somewhat up to date on technology- or at least not get left too far behind. It's also an early Anniversary gift from my Sweetie!

Turns out that IPhone is indeed a marvelous tool, but it's something that only young people can really take to like ducks to water. I've been spending too much time just trying to understand how to use it. I suppose it comes with being from a generation that grew up without these marvels of technology.
I'll get it- eventually.

In other news, we've been enjoying another rash of cool weather, with a few drops of rain which fell yesterday. Today, it was mostly windy and cold. Just a few days ago we were basking in days full of budding trees and blossoms everywhere. The air was filled with the intoxicating perfume of citrus flowers or 'azares' as they're called in Spanish. They are also a beautiful sight to behold! I wish everyone could smell these beauties! These are from our pomelo tree.

And once again, I am suffering from the yearly woes of the season- allergies. Hope this passes soon. Next time I hope to share photos of my herb garden. It's coming along very nicely.

Recipe for Sweet Tamales

2010-03-15T15:03:00.001-05:00

Seeing as how I'm on a short hiatus from Swagbucks right now because in my zeal to search last night, I pressed the 'enter' button a bit too long and it was read by the site as being multiple and too quick and successive searches, ie, also called 'oversearching'. So I got the infamous 'rules' page, which is basically a little warning to lay off on the searches or risk being deactivated. So what is a girl to do when she can't be using her favorite search engine? Why Blog of course silly!

And seeing as how I've also made a new blogging buddy, who happened to ask for my recipe for sweet tamales, why that just gave me the perfect topic to post about. Nathan, this is for you! Sorry, no pictures of the finished product. Next time I make them I will be sure to take lots of photos.

Authentic Mexican Sweet Tamales

Tea for Dough

1 ½ c water

2-3 cinnamon sticks (small)

3-4 cloves

¼ tsp anise seeds

2 cones of piloncillo (dark brown sugar)

Dash of cardamom (optional)

Filling

1 pkg each of dried fruits (cherries, cranberries)

½ box of dark raisins

½ box of golden raisins

1 pkg (10-12 oz) pecan pieces (or more to taste)

1 pkg of coconut

1 can sweetened condensed milk

Rum or brandy to cover the dried fruits in bowl

Dough-(Masa)

5 lbs. of corn masa fresh from tortilleria(Molino)

1 lb box of lard

1 tsp salt

2 tsp baking powder

1 cup mixed of raisins and dried fruit

Corn husks (about 2 pkgs)

Note: Tea and filling may be prepared up to a week in advance (stored in fridge) if desired. This makes for less work on the day you prepare the tamales.

For Tea: combine all ingredients and simmer until piloncillo melts. Strain liquid when cooled and store covered in fridge.

For Filling: combine all ingredients in a bowl, cover and store in fridge.

For Dough:

I- When ready to make tamales, thoroughly clean and rinse husks. Soak in hot water for at least 20 minutes to soften. Drain, set aside.

II- Slowly melt lard over low heat, just until melted. In mixing bowl place masa, salt and baking powder. Using batter attachment, mix, and slowly add some of the tea to mix the dough until fluffy. Add fruit and the rest of the tea and mix well, stopping mixer in between additions. Slowly add melted lard and mix gently. Continue to add the lard until dough has a very soft consistency, but is spreadable. Stop mixer and place your prepared dough in a container so you can proceed to the next step. I usually place it in a disposable aluminum roasting pan. It makes for a comfortable height to dip into for spreading. Also a snap to clean up when finished! I just discard as it will be very greasy!

III- Using a tablespoon or a serving spoon, spread dough onto the wide part of the corn husk. You can spread a few at a time, and then fill, or if you have someone to help you, one person can spread the dough onto the husks, and the other places the filling and folds the tamal. To fill, place about a heaping tsp of filling (or more to taste) in center of dough. Fold one side of husk over the filling and then the other side of husk over the first side, then the tapered end down over the middle and lay down in layers. When all the dough has been used up, or you run out of filling (hopefully both at the same time) place your tamales in a steamer, arranging them in a vertical position. Cover with additional husks and a dish towel. Pour a kettle and a half of water and steam for about 1 ½ hours, or longer if necessary. Tamales are ready when the dough easily separates from the husk. Enjoy!

Makes about 8-9 dozen tamales

Note: Since we've got the flavors of coconut and rum going on, if you wanted you could also add some chopped pineapple to either the dough or the filling for a pina colada taste! I'm also thinking that if you should have leftover filling, you could use it for one of those fruit cookie bar recipes.

Saucy Alfredo Chicken

2010-03-09T17:37:00.002-06:00

Just a short post on what I made for dinner. I like to think it's Chicken Alfredo, because it's saucy. But I do tend to veer away from basic recipes anyway. I like to 'add' lots of extra ingredients. So maybe this is just my "Saucy Chicken" . Looking up a recipe for Creamy Alfredo sauce will yield so many different ways to make it. The important thing is that all it really is is the mixing of any dairy product that will give the creaminess (whipping cream, cream cheese, yogurt, sour cream,etc.) with your aromatics (garlic,onions, celery, and/or green peppers). Some recipes don't use the aromatics at all.

What I did initially was to cut up some boneless chicken breasts and just fry them til golden brown in a little bit of oil, and set aside.

I then just added the garlic first and fried till somewhat browned, then the onions,celery and a little bit of sweet bell pepper (for sweetness). Last I added some butter and proceeded to add mushrooms and some chopped sun ripened tomatoes which I first hydrated in water with some dried chile peppers. Into the pot they all went. At this point you can remove the garlic, which I use whole but crushed so I can easily remove it before the liquids are added.

Last, I merely added about a 1/4 cup of white wine to help deglaze and the whipping cream. Because I wanted lots of sauce, I also added some yogurt. I allowed the cream to simmer down until thick, and added parmesan cheese.

Finally served over a bed of pasta with a side of steamed veggies and topped with more grated parmesan cheese. French or Italian bread optional.

My version and quite simple too actually. We had enough for 4 people and then some leftovers as well. What I did with the leftover pasta was mix it into the saucy chicken for another ready made meal.

Our Precious

2010-03-07T14:09:00.003-06:00

We recently had the distinct pleasure of babysitting our precious GrandSons whilst their parents went out for dinner to celebrate my Daughter in law's Birthday as well as to enjoy some much needed adult companionship. A perfect opportunity for us to stock up on some photos of the Grandkids, and a rare treat for us, we took quite a lot of pictures. Our precious babies are growing so fast! These are just a very few of all the ones we took.

Both are good about smiling at the camera. I remember when they didn't much like having their photos taken. Now they just take it in stride.

During the day, I was able to snag photos of them with their Daddy. It was nice seeing their Daddy playing right alongside them. Reminded me of when he was the one playing on the floor with his toys. Of course that was just before video games appeared on the scene. Once the Nintendo and Playstation systems came out, that became the primary form of entertainment for my own kids. Oh, the memories!

And so it was that for a brief moment we were taken back to our own days of parenting, if only for a very brief time. Right around bedtime, Elias suddenly realized his Mommy was no where in sight and began to ask and cry for her. We managed to hold the fort down for a couple of hours longer, but at one point we finally had to call in the reinforcements. I do know that as they get older and see more and more of us, that will no longer be an issue. For now though, we just enjoy whatever time we get to be with them!

Biscuit Update

2010-03-06T16:54:00.001-06:00

Another gorgeous day! I say gorgeous because it's cloudy, overcast, and misty! Perfect combo! Heat, heat , stay away, don't come back for quite a spell. Sweetie was outside planting my lemon eucalyptus trees and a couple of other plants that were waiting in pots.

While he was outside, I was inside cooking up a big pot of pinto beans with plenty of salt pork and epazote, garlic and onions. Frijoles en bola, or unmashed beans go mighty fine with either cornbread, or in this case, biscuits. I did in fact make Diane's recipe for biscuit mix, and whipped up a batch. I am here to tell you they are delicious! Taste better than McDonald's! And woo!hoo! now I too can whip up a batch anytime I want to enjoy them with coffee and with my Sweetie! Even Sweetie complimented me, so they really must be good. Thanks Diane for sharing! I'll tell you what, those frijolitos really hit the spot. And my mix looks oh so pretty in the glass jar. Next time I make them, I'll be sure to take a picture. This time around they werent big and fluffy, but I think I rolled the dough out too thin. What I liked about the dough is that after I'd let it rest for about 10 minutes, when I came back to roll it out, it felt almost like yeasty dough, all puffy and soft. Yet even though I spread the the dough a wee bit too much, the flavor is wonderful.

As for the rest of the day, it revolves around chores around here. I always still make time to stop and check the going ons of the cyberworld. So until next post, on this same bat channel, have a great day!

Jar Update

2010-03-05T23:09:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to post a quick update on the blog. I know I've been away from blogging too much. Writing has to remain a constant in my life as a form of expression. So I couldn't stay away for long.

On this chilly, misty day I set out to Kmart looking for those glass jars I mentioned in one of my previous posts. Nada. No luck there. Even went to Goodwill hoping they might have some nice sized jars for my biscuit mix. No luck on that front. But I did find some very nice 100% linen skirts. I figured I can easily turn them into some cool aprons. I just love linen! The jars not easily forgotten, I then ventured to Walmart where I finally found them. The lid was not in the color I wanted, since it was a plain silver tone, but like Diane mentioned they can easily be painted to that nice "Martha Stewart green shade" I so love. There was only one size available, which I think is the 1 quart size, but I bought it anyway. I would love the gallon size. A search indicates the Container Store carries them. So next time I make a trip to San Antonio, I'll have to stop by the store and look for them. I am also going to be on the lookout for these jars the next time I go to the flea market. They have such a utilitarian look, I just know they'll always come in handy.

I will definitely make a post about how the biscuits turn out for me. My next post should be my book review for the two books I received last month and hopefully a simple recipe I'd like to share.

Evidence

2010-03-03T15:32:00.000-06:00

Well, I thought I'd follow suit and post a link to a news video out of Kansas. You'll soon see why I rave about Swagbucks! I'm already on my way to my 11th $5 gift card. Not bad since I started in late November. And that's only because I'm taking it slow. Some people who really work at getting referrals, codes, searches, make more than $100 a month. The way referrals work, if for example you sign up using my link, the first 100 swagbucks you earn ONLY in doing searches will also be awarded to me. But not anything you earn in codes, or any of the other ways you can earn swagbucks. Only in the searches. So if you earn 1 swagbuck for searching for example.....blogger....I will also get a swagbuck. After those 100 swagbucks, it would stop matching them for me. So that means in order for me to really earn ALOT of swagbucks, I would have to keep getting referrals sign up under me. A lot of people are very successful in getting their friends and family to sign up, but since a lot of people erronously think it's a scam it's not easy to have people sign up. But as evidenced by the video above, Swagbucks is slowly gaining recognition and momentum as the premier digital dollar site.

Another thing I'd also thought I'd explain is why I keep mentioning gift cards. When you start accumulating your swagbucks, you can just keep on adding to them. And you have the option of buying things from the site's store, which has a huge selection of items you might want in exchange for your swagbucks. So in essence you're buying things for free. But the more popular way is to buy Amazon gift cards. You can buy $5, $25, or $50 gift cards with your swagbucks. Once they're posted to your account, you then go over to the Amazon web site and input your gift card codes, and the money then shows up on your Amazon account available to you to buy anything you want there! Free money! Other people want actual money, so they instead buy Pay Pal gift cards which of course are real actual money you can deposit to your bank account. Pay Pal gift cards however cost quite a bit more than Amazon cards though. So you would need to spend more of your Swagbucks to buy one.
As of this past February 25, Swagbucks implemented a change in the Swagbucks value system. Now 1 swagbuck is actually worth 10. It's pretty much the same thing as before, only now a gift card that used to cost 45 swagbucks now costs 450. But by the same token when you earn on searches, you earn 10, 20, 30 or even more swagbucks instead of 1, 2, or 3. The really great thing now is that the site is posting more codes which means more opportunities to win swagbucks. It has really improved its whole operation as a whole.

Hope you look into it. Remember, the basic gist of the matter is that now you'll be rewarded for using a search engine, when you search for things online. Whereas before when you made searches you got absolutely nothing in the way of 'buying' power. With Swagbucks, you can certainly 'buy' a lot of things! Another thing to keep in mind, every time you do a search or click on ads, someone out there is making money. There are several companies which indeed do make money through your searches. Isn't it time you also got rewarded?

One last note, I realize I've already made other posts about this website. I know perhaps some are thinking that it's getting tiring or annoying, or that I'm trying to sell you another 'scammy' moneymaking idea. I realized this on a personal level when I told a relative about it, and she proceeded to tell me about her Son who was trying to earn comissions from selling a product, thereby hinting that perhaps I should sign up with him, and she might look into signing up with Swagbucks. I absolutely have to say this: THIS ISN'T ABOUT PROFIT FOR ME! I am only sharing this because I consider it something that can be a blessing for you! The most I can expect to earn if you sign up with me is roughly $10. I'm not going to compromise my credibility for that amount of money or any amount! I share this because I wish I had known about this long ago. I share this because I know money is tight right now, and if I know of a way you can help your budget, I want you to also be in on it. It's not anything illegal or questionable, so I know I can tell you about this with a clear conscience. It's not going to earn you a 'paycheck' true, but it's that little extra 'rainy day' or 'egg money' you can have stashed aside. Now I can get off my soapbox.....
Until next time have a wonderful week!

Of Links and Recipes

2010-03-02T23:26:00.000-06:00

I need to go to Kmart or Walmart tomorrow to try and find a nice large glass container for a biscuit mix I'll be preparing using Diane's recipe over at Tomato Soup Cake. It is her glass jar precisely which sets me off on a hunt. I remember Target used to have some almost exactly like hers. The last few times I went I searched for them but they no longer carry them. If not, I may just buy a gallon sized one similar to those used by Martha Stewart for her flours.

Diane posted so many delicious variations of her recipe on her post. It should be a very frugal way to always have some mix on hand. I love her description of how she whips up some biscuits when company shows up unexpectedly. Sweetie and I like to toast our biscuits in our little toaster oven, then spread butter and jam or honey. Great snack when he stops by in the evenings to have coffee with me during his tour of duty. Really hits the spot! So making my own from scratch would be really nice.

It's one of those things that gets in my head and I have to act on it or it will be like a thousand other recipes and ideas I find along the way always meaning to someday make. This one sounds like a keeper! Another thing I really want to try my hand at is cheese making. Suzanne from Chickens in the Road has a treasure trove of wonderful recipes, and she recently made cheddar cheese. Her latest venture was a foray into making lard! What a post! I always thought lard was bad for you. But I've begun to have a sneaking suspicion it's all in the marketing ploys of the food industry which really control our shopping habits. I'm just really grateful and I love how these women share such wonderful recipes with their readers. Head over there and pay them a visit, you're sure to find a recipe you like!

Wish me luck finding that handsome glass jar! Maybe next post I can share one of my recipes!

Public Option

2010-02-26T15:30:00.000-06:00

I found this video while mucking around on Facebook. It's from a political commentator.
Now, I try to stay away from politics and political views, because after all, each is entitled to their own. But I wanted to share what I think is a human/humane perspective that so many people who believe they're right are not seeing.

I'm a Christian, always labeled myself as very conservative, but for some time now it appears that the movement of the conservative right really does not reflect my views or really even those of Christianity. In some areas perhaps they do of course, but greatly lacking in others. Above all, perhaps the greatest deficit is in compassion. And truthfully, there is just so much hatred spewing out among those groups that it is becoming increasingly clear to me that the message of loving one another is getting lost.

So under the flag of Christianity they feel justified in promoting agendas which really are aimed at protecting wealthy corporations. The most obvious example is efforts to not allow the public option in health care reform. I see this as blatant support of the insurance corporations and all their cronies. Remember these are the same folks who have made it difficult for families to get the adequate health care they need. These are the same folks you have to first get permission from to approve almost any medical procedure. It shouldn't be that way. On PBS I have seen documentaries of families being asked to make difficult decisions to be eligible for healthcare. One family even considered divorce as a viable alternative to qualify for aid for a very sick child. These awful things are happening all around us! Like Mr. Olbermann mentions, perhaps until it happens to you or a loved one can you fully understand what this is about and why it's so important to speak up!

Reminder on the Eve

2010-02-24T14:56:00.001-06:00

First, an apology to my bloggie friends. I have sadly neglected to keep up with reading your blogs as regularly as I always have. I always draw great joy and inspiration from all your writings. In my defense, I have been spending most of my free computer time over at the Swagbucks fan page. The reason being that tomorrow is the second 'birthday' of Swagbucks and all week the membership has been anxiously awaiting what promises to be a great time to be on board. Today being the eve of said celebration, you can pretty much bet I'll be on the site on and off all day. Some people there are even planning on pulling all nighters! At exactly midnight, the site is expected to put out several surprises, including a whole new look. At the gist of the matter though is the promise from the head guy that large amounts of swagbucks will be put out during the celebration. Now to put in perspective, 45 swagbucks will buy you a $5 gift card at Amazon. That is the purchase of choice for most of the Swaggernauts. I've already got a hefty $45 in my Amazon account. Free money! You can't beat that, and all for using your computer the way you normally do when doing searches. There are a few pointers I could share with you should you decide to sign up, on how to increase your swagbucks, as well as a few pointers on what not to do. For example, right around midnight, should you happen to be an insomniac, if you do searches, you will almost certainly hit a swagbuck or two- which are called 'midnight bucks' by the way. But what you must not do is 'oversearch'. Doing too many searches too fast will trigger their software to possibly deactivate you temporarily. So in searching, you have to pace yourself. A sure way is to just search as you normally do when you're looking for information on the web.What is interesting to note is that people think it's a scam when they hear about it. I am here to tell you it is not a scam. Proof is in the pudding as they say- my Amazon account in my case. Turns out there is money to be made in using search engines. And many companies are reaping those rewards. Isn't it time we also got rewarded for searching? I'm just saying......

Thought I'd share what my profile picture looks like over at Facebook.

Once this celebration passes I'm pretty certain I can go back to my regularly scheduled program. I will attempt to be more disciplined about posting on my blog, reading, catching up with blogs, and just generally living life as I've always known it. But for now, this little Granny just wants to have fun! I just wanted to post a little reminder that now would be a great time to join Swagbucks!

Praying for Renee

2010-02-17T14:12:00.001-06:00

I want to add my prayers to those of the many friends and loved ones of a fellow blogger. Renee has been battling a life threatening disease for a long time now. Her daughter recently posted that she is in the hospital. We have all been praying and hoping to hear some good news. I extend my sincere wish that Renee will be going home to her family soon fully recovered. She is a lovely woman who is greatly loved and needed by her family.

My friend Gloria made a lovely post which is a reminder to keep Renee in our prayers. I will also add the candle to this post. Anyone wishing to use it on your blog may do so. May the Lord hear our prayers for a speedy recovery and healing of Renee! His will be done. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Good Reads and Fun Needleart

2010-02-08T22:46:00.005-06:00

Busy Monday here. Great start to a new week! I see it as a positive when there's work to be done. Apart from the usual housework, garden type variety, I've got a book review to do in the weeks ahead. Got my books in the mail today. Looks to be some good reading!

This time it's two books. "Dancing with My Father" is the one I have eagerly looked forward to reading. I assume it's about what it is like to trust completely in my heavenly Father, much as we do our earthly Fathers.

This one titled "Mother-Daughter Duet" promises to be about building a good Mom/Daughter relationship. Both are soft cover books.

Also busy over the weekend embroidering a baby blanket for a customer/friend.

Work consisted of merely adding a design and personalizing with name and a monogram.

I'm hoping she'll like the embroidery.

The blanket still shows some of the water soluble stabilizer. It comes off easily in the wash or by spritzing with some water. Not a big deal. I try to remove as much as possible, but I don't dare get too close to the stitches with my little scissors. Better to let the water take care of that. Hoping to get the parcel in the mail tomorrow.

Watched "Chuck" on the telly earlier. It's become my Sweetie's and my new favorite show. It's a little bit of James Bond mixed with some geek squad comedy. It's also the only one of the new shows I like. But then, I'll take the "Beverly Hillbillies" any day over any of the new-fangled shows. Which would explain why my new picture on Facebook is that of Granny.

Time to go check the Swagbucks fan page. Like everyone there who stays up late, I too am hoping for my midnight buck!

February 25

2010-02-05T21:19:00.001-06:00

Well, in case anyone is thinking about signing up with Swagbucks, I really should let you know that perhaps this is the best time ever to do so. On the days leading up to February 25, TSG will be giving his followers on Facebook many opportunities to earn multi-denominational Swagbucks. That translates to more money for gift cards or items you want to buy. February 25 will be the second anniversary of Swagbucks coming to fruition as a search and win site. So anyone coming aboard around this celebration time will be sure to quickly see rewards. I wouldn't be promoting the site if I personally did not truly see how beneficial it has been for me. I refuse to make fraudulent statements, so right off I'm saying that you will not get rich instantly or stand to be the next great winner of a millionaire sweepstakes somewhere. What I will honestly tell you is that once the swagbucks start adding up, you will have enough to buy that gift you'd like to with your very own money. If it's teens using the site, they will be able to save enough for their own purchases, thereby helping the family budget. And did I mention the word sweepstakes earlier? You do actually have the opportunity of 'buying' Swagstakes entries with your swagbucks. There are $100, $500 and even $1000 Swagstake entries you can snag with your swagbucks if you should want to take a shot at winning those large amounts. The entries generally only cost 1 to three swagbucks.

For transparency purposes, I will say that right now I have $25 in an Amazon account that I can use to buy anything I want there on Amazon.com, and I have 57 swagbucks in my Swagbucks account which I've accumulated just since I cashed in the other ones for the Amazon gift cards. I actually have enough right now to buy one more $5 gift Amazon gift card which I would then add to the $25 for a total of $30! And this is in just over a month! I'm not filthy rich, but I have that little 'nest egg' in Amazon. I could also have bought PayPal gift cards, but those cost quite a bit more. Almost everyone on the Swagbucks fan site buys the $5 gift cards, because they only cost 45 swagbucks.

And lest I forget to mention it, you can earn those swagbucks in a variety of ways, not just by using the search engine. On the Facebook fan page, TSG puts clues and codes that you then go looking for to insert into your account 'code' box, thereby adding more into your account. There are Special Offers that you may or may not choose to take advantage of, but where if you do, you can earn more swagbucks. Then there's the Shop and Earn page, where it's like shopping at your regular stores, but with the added incentive of earning swagbucks which when added to your account means more buying power. It's unbelievable how many ways there are to earn those swagbucks. Swagbucks, swagbucks, swagbucks, I know I keep repeating that word. It's hard not to- the list of reasons to join just goes on and on and on!

I know that once anyone sees how great the site is they'll want to let all their friends and loved ones know about it. This post is just a heads up to how great the timing is right now to be a part of this web site. For anyone who does decide to join, I urge you to become a fan of the site on Facebook, and just read what goes on there. You will learn a lot! Also read the FAQ's, as well as the discussion threads. You will be glad you did, because you'll also hear about what web sites to stay away from due to viruses or problems with getting swagbucks credited. I would want anyone joining to be really educated about the site so it will be a much more enjoyable experience. So I hope you do join, and the sooner you do, the sooner you'll be racking up those swagbucks!

Baking Love

2010-02-03T23:09:00.001-06:00

Today I awoke to a chilly, drizzly day. As for me, I love days like this. The misty rain stopped early though. I am grateful for any amount of rainfall. I know it's good for our garden. And so all day I have been indoors, puttering inside the house.

Then for an early dinner I made a meatloaf chock full of veggies, with a side of baked potato and green beans. Meatloaf for me is a perfect opportunity to use up as much of the herbs and spices in the pantry before they go stale. So I add a little bit of everything-- thyme, marjoram, parsley, chervil, savory, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, even ground up juniper berries (a wonderful aroma) and of course a good dose of curry powder...... oh yes, and salt and pepper. After shaping the loaf I add a sprinkling of worcestershire sauce and a layer of tomato ketchup. Finally some strips of bacon on top and in the oven it goes for about an hour and a half.

I started thinking early in the day that meatloaf would go really nice with some home baked bread. Since the weather got me in the mood for baking the timing was great. Once I get started mixing up a batch of dough I am reminded that this is my first love of all things creative. It just feels so good to play with masa (dough)! I decided to make some short baguettes. In Mexican culture they are called 'bolillos'. As I understand it, the recipe is one of the many left from the time of the French occupation in Mexico. I just know they're good! Mine aren't nearly as perfectly shaped as a bakery one would be:

And good they were! Love the way the kitchen smells when I bake bread! It's like you step inside the house and the aroma is the first thing you notice- makes you want a slice slathered with butter! I'm just going to have to get in the habit of baking more often. And you know what else is so wonderful? I know exactly what ingredients went into the making of it. Only flour, yeast, water, and salt. The sesame seeds are optional and they're good for you too. Big reason to make your own!

Mex-Ita

2010-02-01T17:52:00.000-06:00

It has been said that necessity is the Mother of invention. For dinner I was making chicken envueltos also called 'flautas', and you absolutely have to have salsa when eating envueltos. Well that, and Mexican rice and refried beans of course. Anyhow, I was out of fresh tomatoes, which I prefer, and upon checking my pantry, I discovered I didn't have any cans of crushed or whole tomatoes to make it with. What's a cook to do? I may have very well discovered a new version of Mexican hot salsa, or hot sauce. I could probably name it MexIta sauce, since it's a mixture of Mexican and Italian flavors. I happened to have different brands of jars of Italian pasta sauces. Now I knew Prego or Ragu just wouldn't do, because they have such a strong 'oregano' or classic spaghetti sauce flavor. I needed something that was more about tomatoes and less about Italian spices. So there I was in the middle of my kitchen reading ingredient labels. I found this one, but I took the picture after I had rinsed out the bottle:

I proceeded to use it by first toasting the dried 'chile de arbol' pods over a skillet, then tossing into boiling water with three large cloves of garlic, cooking until well hydrated and softened. After draining the chiles, I added them with the garlic to the tomato sauce in the blender. You do have to be careful at this stage because suddenly breathing in the fumes can induce an uncomfortable coughing fit! The resulting product was thick and smelled earthy and rustic and just plain delicious. And the color! Oh, what a festive shade of red!

Who would've thought that it works! I really like the texture the tomatoes give the salsa. It's a velvety almost unctuous feel that is hard to describe. It's an intense flavor, different from your traditional hot salsa. It doesn't have the bright, crisp and clean flavors of traditional Mexican sauces. This is something different. A sauce for when you want something a little 'different'. So next time you're fresh out of an ingredient, use and make do with what you have. You just might find that you've discovered a special treat! I'm thinking I may have to do a poor man's copyright on this!

Welcoming a New Blogger

2010-01-31T13:46:00.001-06:00

I remember well when I first made my foray into the blogging world. I was unsure if I could even think of things to blog about. One thing I will never forget is that it was my dear friend Beverly from Tea Time and Roses who gave me a warm welcome and offered her help if I should need it. I learned from her that the blogging community is full of warm, friendly and helpful people. I also decided based on that experience that I too would try to 'pay it forward' when the opportunity arose. In a way, I did that by trying to be helpful to my friend Gloria from Viva La Vida by making posts about her and trying to direct readers to her blog. Gloria however, was already an experienced blogger, as she had already had a blog before the one she now authors.

I think the real opportunity to pay it forward came recently through Facebook and Swagbucks, where I 'met' another very nice lady who just barely started her own blog. I wanted to introduce her to the nice people who visit my blog. Her name is Michelle, and she is a stay at home Mom, a former air Stewardess, or flight attendant. She has so many ideas for being thrifty and saving money, and I just know her blog, Thoughts and Ideas, which is also titled "Girl in Air' in blogger, will be a great success! Please join me in giving her a warm welcome and visiting her blog. And please, do leave her a comment....or two ;)........As bloggers isn't that the one thing we aspire to? Comments, of course! I always say that comments to a blogger are like applause to an artist. So please head on over to her blog and pay her a friendly visit. You'll be glad you did, because already from the looks of it, she has some super helpful tips posted.

Colors

2010-01-30T15:47:00.002-06:00

I am loving the colorful visuals in this video! Ethnic and bold- full of Mexican symbolism. The bright cheerful colors remind me of a Frida Kahlo painting. Wish I could infuse all these colors into my world!

Staying Busy

2010-01-28T22:27:00.000-06:00

I haven't forgotten about blogging. I've simply been spending way too much time on the Swagbucks fan page looking for clues and codes to help me earn swagbucks. Already, I've earned 5 $5 gift cards, which I'll redeem over at Amazon when they're posted Monday. I think I've got enough for one of the Tasha Tudor books I've been wanting (there are several I want). Not too bad for for it being under a month registered with the site. The thing is, it can become a little addictive. You start earning, and then it's like you want more and more. I think I'll just take a more laid back approach after today. I'll simply do the searches and the weekly codes. Keep it simple, and it doesn't take over your life.

In other news, I've been tryin to make time to visit my fellow bloggers' sites. Also trying to learn to use Twitter. I for the life of me cannot get the workings of it. But I'm trying. Interestingly, it's also one of the sites used by Swagbucks for giving out codes and Swagbucks.

If this sounds like I've neglected my other hobbies, I'd have to agree. But only for today. I've got a couple of things I need to add to my Etsy shop. I will post about that soon.

Candied Pomelo Peel

2010-01-26T12:14:00.001-06:00

Well my friend Gloria is always cooking up yummy things in her kitchen. She recently made a post about making candied orange peel. Her post inspired me to give it a try. Since we had a goodly amount of pomelos from our tree, they yielded quite an amount of peel for just such a treat. I found this recipe for making Candied Pomelo Peel and it was perfect and so easy with a simple illustration too.

During the first stage of the process it simmers away:

The syrup took upwards of an hour and a half to finally reduce at a slow simmer. Then it was a matter of laying them out to dry.

Mmm... they looked so good at this stage and ready for enjoying.

But the recipe said to toss them in granulated sugar, so that was the final step.

They are delicious and bittersweet. I really like their color! They remind me so much of Mexican candied sweet potatoes "dulce de camote". Now I just have to find a nice container to store them in. This is such an easy thing to do with something you'd normally throw away. I'm thinking I'll do this again with oranges and even ginger. It's so easy and fun!

Another Windy Day

2010-01-24T15:18:00.002-06:00

Gorgeous but blustery day in January. The sun is out, and already I see our Arizona ash trees are budding. Hot days are not far behind. Inside the house, I'm feeling cold. I'm still wearing sweaters and pants, and my ever present fuzzy socks- even so I can still feel the cold of the tile floor.

Windy days like this are perfect for snuggling inside the house to write or read. My Sweetie has gone to the ranch to change the batteries in his cameras. I could have gone with him, but the last time I went the jostling of the truck on one of the dirt roads left me with a very sore backside. I can still feel the pain when I cough. A visit to the Doctor because of that yielded a prescription for sore muscles. I decided not to chance getting hurt again.

And so I am all alone now with my thoughts. I look at my hands and I see five small and faint age spots, but only on my right hand. An old hand and a young hand? Had they been on my face I could chalk it up to freckles. Freckles are cute. But on hands, they are a symbol of aging. Proof that no one escapes the ravages of time.

I like sitting in this very spot when it's windy. For some reason, possibly less noise barriers, I can really feel and hear the sound of the wind. Usually it evokes sadness in me. But today, it just makes me think about the realities that other people live. Like a blogger in Illinois, who I'm sure loves where she lives, but I think about the stark countryside she is surrounded by at this time of year. And how the wind must sound there. Probably more pronounced and sad. I remember passing through the countryside of Illinoise on my way to Chicago during my late teens. It was the trip which changed my life forever. But perhaps that's a post for another day. There were so many fields, similar to where I had grown up in North Texas. Everyone has their own reality to deal with. Whether surrounded by beautiful green landscapes or dormant fields, it's what each person carries inside that shapes their view of their own and others' world.

For me, it all comes down to the fact that I'm a people watcher. No, not stalker. Watcher. Ever since I was a little girl, I remember my Abuelita taking me to the town plaza on Saturdays or Sundays to enjoy a snowcone, a tostada with chile, or a skewered mango with chile,and we'd sit in the beautiful marble benches, just watching people stroll by. I was always very curious and often wondered who they were and where they were going. I'm afraid I watched so much, I forgot to just live fully. But in a sense I suppose it explains why I enjoy blogging. It's a form of people watching. And we bloggers all do it. Of course, it also comes with a small caveat. This form of people watching is on a global scale. No longer merely the people strolling by in your neck of the woods...... and now they can also watch you! On the plus side, it has become a way to make new friends and to share knowledge and skills. Mind boggling when you think that just before the last twenty or so years, life as we know it was so very different. You'd lose touch with people you had known in school, and that was it. You'd never hear from them again. But then along comes Facebook, Twitter, Blogger and all that changes. Such a different reality from the one I grew up with.

Goodness! A windy day can surely set me to thinking!

Work in Progress

2010-01-24T13:17:00.000-06:00

My blog has become my little project- a work in progress. I've made the top banner and am using a template with multiple columns. I really only wanted three columns, but am finding uses for the other columns. The only thing is it does look cluttered. Even my banner with the photos is a bit much. It's all experimental at this stage. And it's all fun for me learning how to move things around and playing with gadgets and what not. I still have much to learn though.

Testing Editor

2010-01-24T00:38:00.000-06:00

All right! It worked! So much easier now.

Testing A Siggy

2010-01-24T00:21:00.002-06:00

For quite some time I've wanted to learn how to do my own signature. I was reminded of it when I visited Jayme's blog. Her little rooster inspired me because I love chickens! So I've spent most of the day reading through the search hits on Google. It's like looking for a needle in a haystack. I'm still not sure I did this right. For some reason I was unable to select a font color in Photoshop. It just wouldn't 'take'. I know I messed up somewhere. But at least I was able to get a transparent background. Well, maybe it just looks transparent because my post background is white. I'm also going to see if it works to just copy the text and save it to my blog editor. That's next on the agenda. I also changed the blog header a bit. I'm not sure I like it yet. I rather liked looking at the beach to remind me of cool and refreshing ocean breezes.

Love,

More Comfort Food

2010-01-23T19:00:00.000-06:00

Another gorgeous day with a perfect temperature. While not a cold day , it was cool enough for some comfort food. A nice pot of chicken gumbo, courtesy of Ms. Martha. The only tweaking I did this time was add some corn, and since I only had breaded okra, that's what I used. It doesn't look as good as Martha's, but I can assure you it was delicious. I made the roux as instructed, but the floured okra made the consistency thicker than the original.

Martha's recipe suggests using store bought rotisserie chicken as a time saver, but I just cooked some boneless chicken breasts until golden brown. They don't take very long to cook.

Goes great with rice and cornbread. Simple and fast- I like that in meal preparation.

Love,

Spring Joy

2010-01-21T19:25:00.004-06:00

Today was a gorgeous Spring like day. Made me want to go out and window shop. I'm glad I went to Michael's and found these gorgeous faux tulips. They just shouted Springtime to me! Another plus is that they feel like real tulips too. The leaves have a velveety texture which resemble the real thing. On sale too for $2 so I bought enough for a small bouquet. Each stem is quite long, and I can't decide whether to cut them down. I'm liking the way they look as is. My dining/kitchen area is teensy, so the stems look huge in comparison, but every time I walk in, the sight of these tulips just cheers me up so much! Joyful! Just joyful!

Also found these simple faux zinnias for a buck each, also nice textured stems. I improvised with an old cylinder shaped wine container for a vase. All my old vases are in the garage, along with a myriad of things I hope to include in a garage sale some day. I'll likely end up taking them to Goodwill. They're taking up valuable storage space.

I think I needed something to remind me of future Spring blooms. Every time I step outside all I see are the forlorn and rotting vegetation left from the recent freeze we had. I do love cold weather, just wish the garden didn't suffer.

So, if you're in the market for some pretty florals, this is probably the time to get the best selection. I also found some nice filler flowers for my front door wreath. I usually just change the flowers and ribbons for each season. Right now I've got a Valentine themed wooden wreath. Once that day is gone, I'll hang the Spring wreath. And then next month I have to replace the flowers at the cemetery for my Mom and Dad. I like to do my own floral arrangements. I just cannot justify paying the prices that the flower shops charge. After doing your own florals for a while, you accumulate enough supplies to make arrangements for almost any occasion.

Love,

Dining with Epazote

2010-01-19T21:27:00.001-06:00

In case you've got a lot of epazote growing in your garden and don't really know what to do with it, I have a suggestion. By all means cook with it! Just before the freeze we had here, my Sweetie collected all the nice green epazote leaves growing in the garden. After washing them thoroughly, I set them out to dry on paper towels. I recalled how one day a lady had told me she used it in quesadillas, which are basically corn or flour tortillas with a filling of cheese which is melted within the tortillas over a skillet or comal. I had made a post about that before. Unfortunately the photos I had used are no longer in my Flicker account. Anyway, at the time, I had some concerns about whether it could be detrimental to eat large amounts of epazote. Up until then we basically used the epazote for adding to a pot of beans, much the way you would add salt pork.

Well, seeing as how we had already used epazote in our own quesadillas, and no harm had befallen us, I figured I'd use our latest batch as well. We had some leftover smoked ham from the Holidays in the freezer, so I diced that up into small pieces, pan fried until nice and brown, added some diced onions and let them caramelize a bit, added epazote and spinach leaves, lots of them if you please, sauteed that as well., then added some whisked eggs. Once cooked, I added a little bit of cheese to melt over that.....turned out mighty tasty! And I got up from the table feeling good that I had incorporated some greens to our meal. Epazote leaves- not just for beans any more! The picture above is courtesy of the herbivoracious website. Their version includes poblano peppers, which I would have added if I had them in stock. I am so glad I didn't get rid of this 'weedy' herb. It can just seed itself so easily, there'll be times you want to get rid of it. But don't. Just harvest it, rinse, and set out to dry. Turn the leaves every so often so they dry evenly. It will take several days before they become dry and brittle, but then you can store and use like any dry herb. If you check any of the online herb sites, you'll see that it can be a pretty expensive herb to buy. It's not hard and it's best to grow your own.
Love,

Further Proof

2010-01-19T19:42:00.000-06:00

This is a brief post and an addendum to the previous I made about Swagbucks.

After I sent in the link to my post, I was very pleasantly surprised to hear from TSG that he had read it and liked it. He proceeded to add five swagbucks to my account. So my little writing endeavor earned me some swagbucks and for that I am happy! Virginia, there really is a TSG!

Love,

Another Good Site

2010-01-16T15:35:00.002-06:00

About a month ago I signed up with a search and win website which can earn you digital dollars called swagbucks- good for buying gift cards or prizes. I was a bit leery at first, and my first impression was that it was mainly a 'youth' oriented application. The site is called Swagbucks and basically to find all the tricks and tips of the site you also visit their facebook page. Like most online forums, the site has the resident 'guides' who will slap you silly if you happen to ask redundant questions- which by the way everyone has to in order to learn. Well it turns out they much prefer if you read the FAQ's before you venture into their territory. In the end, as you read more, you do actually learn a few things to help you along the way. When I saw and experienced firsthand just how rude these tech saavy young people could be, I impulsively decided it wasn't worth it to stay on as a member. Later, in my imminent wisdom, I decided to give the site a second chance. I downloaded the toolbar, which is useful because it is there that the head honcho known as TSG or The Swagbucks Guy and his lady friend TSGal- who by the way are they who must be thanked for their great generosity- will place codes for which announcements are made.....which in turn generate a flurry of activity on the fan page--and the hunt is on! I pity the poor soul who dares to ask for the code, because you see one must work for these codes by going through the steps to find and sometimes even decipher words or letters. All in all a lot of fun, and a good way to waste away a few minutes for that elusive swagbuck. Thankfully, those swagbucks really do slowly but surely start adding up if only by doing searches.

Well, it also turns out that our fine TSG is also a very fine individual, because just as an example around Christmas he encouraged the fan base to donate some of their swagbucks to a Children's hospital charity. His latest effort I find altogether very altruistic and noteworthy. Since the disaster in Haiti occurred, he has been leading yet another effort for donations not only of swagbucks, as well as providing helpful links and information where donations can be made. The website also featured celebrity singer Wycleff Jean who is from Haiti by showcasing his utube videos since he is also leading an effort to collect donations. I had never heard of him before, but after seeing his performance in the Norway ceremony to award President Obama the Nobel Peace Prize, I came to see that he is a very talented musician. And so, my point is that this web site has earned my respect. Even now, the main title of the Facebook Fan page as well as the Home page is encouraging everyone to do all they can to help the people of Haiti.

With all this I became satisfied with my decision to stay with Swagbucks. It is a corner of cyberspace inhabited by fine young men and women who are very conscious of the world around them, and want to make the world a better place. Of course there are also the occasional old fuddy duddies like moi who join up.

I usually like to pass along info regarding positive online experiences. I think Swagbucks qualifies as such. I also placed a swidget on the sidebar, so for anyone interested in signing up, hopefully you will use it. That in turn would give me a few 'referral' points. Now that would just make me giddy with glee!

P.S. I should probably add this disclaimer; I know there will be a concern about viruses, as this site is also visited by a lot of spammers. However, like anywhere you visit on cyberspace, do not click on any links provided by the posters unless you know them. Also, I have been told that some of the links for which you can sign up for special offers have been known to spread bugs- but it is only those which are for the video games. All the other sites are well known and reputable. As to the virus I picked up recently on my computer, I have reason to believe it was from an email well before I frequented Swagbucks.

Love,

Blog Update

2010-01-14T21:10:00.001-06:00

Thanks to my good bloggie friend Bob of Mexico Bob fame, I was finally able to figure out what is slowing up my blog so much. My picture files are huge! I think that comes from using a 12 px camera. What I have to do in the future is resize each picture before uploading to the blog. Simple enough; however, that is not the only problem. My main computer has been infected with a nasty virus and will be going in the shop soon. For now I'm using my Sweetie's laptop. I still can't get used to the smaller keyboard, so that will probably translate into less posts on my blog. I may from time to time attempt a post, but I've made so many typos already, I just know it wouldn't be the same.

So until next time, I bid you farewell.

Love,

Sleepless in Texas

2010-01-13T02:25:00.005-06:00

It's late and I know better than to be up. I can't help myself though. I wanted to change the blog template, and that takes up so much time. Even now, I still have much to add and move around. So the solitude of the night is my companion, my aid in focusing at the job at hand.

Writing as much as I can has certainly helped me with attaining focus- period. It gives me a sense of purpose. I've become scatterbrained in many respects. I don't like that. Sewing and knitting have gone by the wayside. I don't like that. And for some time now.......sleeplessness. And I don't like that one little bit either.

So, with this being a new year, what better time to 'redecorate' your blog than on one of those sleepless nights? I look at my 'new' blog and it looks so cluttered, an excellent metaphor for my life right now. I am certain, I am positive, that I will snap out of this. I am a daughter of the most high King. It's just that even the King's children have to deal with..well....life.
Love,

Happy Birthday Gloria!

2010-01-12T02:06:00.003-06:00

Gloria, wishing you a joyful day full of blessings surrounded by all your loved ones! May the Lord bless you and keep you in his care!

I've only known you for a while, but in blogging time, it has seemed like a long time. Your sheer joy of living and your sense of humor is always an inspiration to me. You have been a constant and loyal bloggie pal, and I just wanted to say I appreciate your friendship greatly. I pray the Lord blesses you with a long healthy life so you can share many more wonderful posts! Keep up the great work on your blog and keep doing the things you love--whether it's creating beautiful artwork and bangles, or delectable meals you share with us via your photos. Please accept this heartfelt and genuine wish for a very Happy Birthday!! P.S. To my other bloggie friends, please join me in visiting Gloria's blog to wish her a Happy Birthday!

Sincerely,

Get A Load Off These!

2010-01-10T11:36:00.004-06:00

It seems like only yesterday when I posted about these:

This is what they look like now and as they appear on my kitchen table; what a bountiful harvest to take off the trees!

Weather reports warning of an impending freeze prompted my Sweetie to gather all the citrus fruit growing in our trees. I rather liked seeing them on the trees. They were always a visual treat for the eyes. He did have to leave a few on the tree which were out of his reach; hopefully they'll make it through the cold.

I find the different colors, textures and sizes of our citrus fruit fascinating! From the large pomelo grapefruits to the smaller Mexican limes, they're all so beautiful in my eyes! For comparision, here is a tangerine next to the pomelos:

Love, love all the colors!

And then there are these which are an interesting variety of lemon. They taste like a Sunkist lemon, but are just a bit different color wise. I'm sure given enough time they too will turn yellow like the smaller Mexican limes next to them:

The tangerines didn't produce as much as last year and the guavas didn't produce at all, except for two which very recently were found on the ground. I usually harvest our guavas in September, so that was rather weird. One of the orange trees produced a few, the other tree is too small. Our softshell pecan tree- zero. Now with the koi pond a thing of the past, maybe we can take better care of it. We could never spray it for bugs before because of the koi. So, yes, we're hoping for a better harvest next year, Lord willing. For me though, the crowning jewel this year was the pomelo grapefruit. First time it ever produced! So, yes, we are happy with our trees! At times like this I'm really glad we live in a tropical climate. During the Summer though, I am always wishing I lived elsewhere. I guess I'm just really trying to accentuate the positive here by journaling our fruit harvest.

As I enjoyed a few tangerine segments, I commented to my Sweetie how nice it was that we didn't have to go to the store to buy this wonderful fruit. We agreed it was nice that we could just take them fresh off the tree, unlike the fruits at the store which may travel thousands of miles and may have been harvested before they're ripe. Freshness is a very important factor- that and prices! A few days ago I was in San Antonio and stopped to buy some seedless grapes. I grabbed a bag and took it to the cashier and the tally was $17! Can you imagine paying that much for grapes?! The grapes were labeled as grown in the USA too! The ones labeled as coming from Peru were just as expensive. I had to rebag and take a smaller bag, which cost me a much lower price of $12.....still a lot, in my opinion. I am going to have to seriously think about taking better care of our grape vine! Yes, times are getting harder and the first place you feel it is at the food market. I am so thankful to my Lord for providing so much for us in the face of these difficult times.

Until next time,

Love,

Nice Weather for Soup

2010-01-08T17:22:00.001-06:00

Edited to add: I forgot to mention that I 'tweaked' my own recipe today. While frying the sausage, and because it was so lean and sticking to the pot, I added about a Tbs of bacon drippings that I had saved from breakfast. It gave it a nice but very subtle flavor.~

We got down to the mid 30's today,which is such a rarety around these parts. But it was also a good excuse for having soup. I made my version of Olive Garden's "Tuscan Soup", which is much like a creamy potato chowder soup. It's made with Italian sausage, but I've also made it with regular breakfast sausage and I think it tastes better that way. Like any soup, after you fry up your meats, just add the flavorful components: finely diced onions and garlic, celery, green peppers, then add about a TB of flour and sort of 'brown' that into a roux, add your stock, in this case chicken stock, and your veggies. I also add baked potatoes because they supply a really nice unique flavor to the soup. For this pot I added 4 medium baked potatoes roughly chopped up.

If you want to layer more flavor, I usually add about a cup of of wine (whatever you've got on hand; I like to add white wine, but today I only had red wine on hand so I used that) and about two cups of whipping cream. Note: Wine is very much an optional addition.

For adjusting the seasoning I like to add Knorr chicken bouillon- that and maybe some dried parsley, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. I also season the sausage while it's browning with those same herbs.

At the end just add your kale and/or spinach and let the pot simmer for about 10 minutes.

Serve with some crusty French bread and be sure to add lots of grated parmesan cheese like they do at Olive Garden. And if you like heat, add more red pepper flakes!

Love,

The One Day Way Book Review

2010-01-06T22:14:00.002-06:00

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Lose All the Weight You Want, One Meal, One Pound, One Day At a Time!

I've got great news for you: You are about to feel better and look better beginning today! Today is truly a new opportunity for you to reach your weight loss goals. No, you won't fit into your "skinny jeans" today, but I'm going to show you how each day will get you closer to that goal.

Yesterday's mistakes are gone so let them go. You can't control tomorrow, so stop worrying about it. Today is your opportunity to lose weight, get strong, and look great. It won't happen overnight, but you can build a new life by changing your actions immediately and I'm here to show you how to make the changes that will create the new lifestyle you dream of: body, mind, and spirit. Best of all, you will start celebrating right away!

Come on, my friend. Let's get started! By opening this book, I'll show you how to unlock every tool you need to lose weight and get fit —and stay that way for the rest of your life. Success can be yours, what are you waiting for?
-Chantel

Chantel Hobbs

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
author spotlight

The author of Never Say Diet and The Never Say Diet Personal Fitness Trainer, Chantel Hobbs is a motivational speaker, life coach, personal trainer, marathon runner, wife, and mother of four whose story has been featured on Oprah, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox & Friends, the 700 Club, and the covers of People and First magazines. She appears weekly on two fitness-themed radio programs and promotes her One-Day Way Learning System on television. Visit Chantel at ChantelHobbs.com for fitness updates and coaching tips.

MY REVIEW

For me, reading this book certainly opened my mind to what losing weight should be all about. The author deftly constructs the case for losing weight based on your own unique goals and situation- and not based on comparing yourself to others. She walks the walk because she's been there. She knows and identifies all the pitfalls that can leave a dieter feeling defeated. She brings them up because she knows you'll be confronted with them....sooner or later. But she also provides several useful tools to help you succeed. In her ''Laying Out The Foundation'' chapter she provides a list of very effective things to do, some of which are Spiritual in nature. I very much liked that! And about exercise......something I felt is just too personal, at least for me....well, she suggests finding a way to 'like it'. I can relate to that. It's like when I tell my kids that success in life is all about attitude. If you decide you're not going to like something, you won't. So I tell them to try and find the positive in situations they dislike. I guess that can very well translate into exercise as well. I'll have to remember that!

In closing, I had determined when I first received this book that I would end up not liking it and that it would just be another diet and exercise book. And I was quite prepared to state that in my review. But in all honesty, after reading it, I will say that it will be of great value and use to me personally. I can say that I believe it will help me in my struggle to lose weight.....but like any book or weight loss product, the rest is up to me. That's the catch. There is no magic pill. That being said, I can very truthfully say that I highly recommend it. I would give it 5 stars out of five.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

To learn more about or where to purchase this book visit Random House.

Cold Surfing

2010-01-06T18:14:00.000-06:00

It hasn't actually been that cold today- temperatures hovered around the 50's- but for some reason my feet have been cold and I just feel cold. To stay warm, I spent an awful lot of time visiting my old haunts- computer embroidery sites that is. It was fun seeing the projects people are working on. I used to visit those old sewing forums regularly not only to learn new things, but for inspiration as well. Seems the new 'big' thing the ladies are raving about are the 'Cricut' and the 'Silhouette' machines which can cut out all sorts of fancy designs on vinyl and other materials. Everybody wants one. They almost had me wanting one also!

But I've not lost my focus----must remember how much I really want a spinning wheel! Sure there are quite a few machines and gadgets out there for all kinds of creative work, but sometimes you just have to choose only one or two outlets. It's the sensible thing to do.

After all that surfing, a nice big bagel loaded with whipped cream cheese really hit the spot- that and a steaming cup of hot coffee! That was supper for us on this cold January day. I may have to make a quick trip to Wallieworld for some items I need to work on a project. Not sure yet. I hate going out. Oh yeah! Did I mention how much I hate to drive and how I hate to go out! I prefer to wait until my Sweetie can drive me. This city I live in has grown exponentially, and there is an unbelievable amount of traffic at any given time of day or night. We also have quite a lot of 'crazy drivers'. Some of them are even known to exhibit a healthy dose of road rage. I try to avoid that. I guess I just very much enjoy being at home.

This about ties it up for now. Oh, dear....I feel another post coming on. I still have to do my book review! Details later.

Love,

Woman At The Window

2010-01-05T22:25:00.001-06:00

Here we are five days into the new year, and already this will be my fourth 'journal entry'. Why that's almost an entry a day! Now if I could just keep this up. Like most bloggers, I go into long lapses in writing because I think to myself that my writing could not possibly be of interest to anyone. I guess I need to remind myself of one the reasons why I began to blog: as a form of expression. Like the artist who picks up the brushes and starts painting on a blank canvas, I pick up my keyboard and begin to type about the things which stir within me. Slowly I begin to see the portrait I am trying to depict with words. It's like looking through a window into a faraway horizon, and with each stroke seeing details of that horizon more clearly.

I realize my last post was almost cryptic, and it really was not my intention to sound mysterious. I think it was just an exercise in writing honestly and from the heart. It was certainly an exercise in writing outside of my comfort zone. I may decide to pursue the topic in a future post, but I have a feeling I won't. Quite simply because some things are better left unsaid. Besides, it's time to move on, turn a new leaf and let go of old baggage. And on to better and bigger things!

Love,

Good Thing

2010-01-05T14:44:00.001-06:00

Good thing God is a merciful God. And patient and longsuffering. He has extended an invitation that is very much active and in good standing for over two thousand years. He has invited as many as would listen and open their hearts to his voice to sup with him at the Bridal table....which will very soon be laid out.

I got to thinking about it, because I realized it's a very good thing he is not like me, and his ways are higher and better than mine. I've only waited around 52 years for my biological Mother and siblings to love and accept me. And I already got tired of that wait. No more. Over. Finito. January 2010. Marked. Checked. I guess to all things there is a beginning and certainly an end. And to God's invitation there will also be an end. I'm just saying......

Love,

Karen's Recipe

2010-01-03T23:20:00.001-06:00

Clever Karen posted a delicious recipe on her blog that I just had to try. However, as usual, I was up to my old tricks again, tweaking the recipe just a bit. My try at making Spinach Crab Dip was pretty succesful, judging by my little one's reaction. He liked it! Here it is fresh out of the oven:

His complements are all the encouragement in the world that I need.

Very nice on warm slices of a crusty baguette.

Truthfully, I didn't change it very much. Karen's recipe sounded just fine to me. The only tweaking I did was to saute 2 small cloves of garlic and about a tablespoon of finely diced onion in just a wee bit of butter. I added that to the mixture along with a chiffonade of fresh spinach and parsley. This makes a great appetizer! I had planned on making this for New Year's Eve, but I already had so much food out, I decided to make it today. Oh! I almost forgot....I also used two small cans of crab meat instead of just one. Very easy to make so this recipe's a keeper.

Love,

Kapok Fiber

2010-01-02T14:43:00.001-06:00

I got my shipment of kapok (ceiba) fiber I ordered. A whopping 2 lbs, which is lightweight and airy, and above all so very, very soft!

I just need to make some time to play with it and find out if it can be spun into yarn. From what I briefly tested, it doesn't look like it can. Maybe with a spinning wheel?

But that's ok, because there are still many things I can do with it, such as use as filling for decorative pillows. I read somewhere that kapok fiber is used in flotation devices. The only little problem is that the fiber arrived with quite a few seeds still embedded. Which can also be a good thing, since I can try and see if I can get those seeds to sprout. Kapok seedlings grow fairly fast. Seeing as how I live in a hot almost tropical zone, I already have two kapok trees growin in our front yard. It will be a while before they produce the flowers and then this fiber that I love, but the trees in and of themselves are quite a beautiful sight. Their trunk is covered with big thick spiny needles, which look so unusual. I should say that only one of them has that characteristic. The other one doesn't. My Sister was told by the folks who sold her the trees in the Rio Grande Valley that one is a 'male' and the other a 'female'. I suppose that is possible, because one of my friends also has a kapok tree with spiny needles and it has never flowered- possibly a male specimen?

I also have some soft silk fiber as well as more mohair fiber I ordered over a month ago from an Etsy vendor. I am really looking forward to working with that. I'll have plenty of things to do.

Happy New Year 2010!

2009-12-31T21:46:00.000-06:00

Could not let this eve go by without wishing everyone a Joyous and Happy New Year 2010! May the Lord bless us all! Some have said 'all we need is love' and even written songs about it, but I say "All we need is God" to get us through the year and beyond. May we know how to listen to his voice and his guidance, because I know we're going to need it- big time! Who knows what the year ahead holds? All we can do is pray for the Lord's blessing over us. And may I just add this: if you possibly can, please pray for our youth- starting from the infants being born to the young ones barely making their own way in life. If you are reading this and you know about prayer 'in the Spirit' I hope you will truly do so.

May the Lord God of Israel hear our prayers and bless us in the year to come.

Love,

Comfort

2009-12-29T17:58:00.001-06:00

Beautiful and cold and drizzly- my favorite type of weather. It makes you want to nestle up with a good book or a warm knitting project sitting next to a fire. And when you get hungry, you just want something simple and delicious- comfort food. We slept in this morning, so my day is rather lagging in things I must do, but I did get around to preparing some hearty beef stroganoff at my little one's request.

photo courtesy of Taste of Home

It turned out very good, as per his compliments. That indeed makes me happy.

Trying to tie up any loose ends before the year ends. I've got a book review to post next week about this book:

I am looking forward to fulfilling that commitment. I've also been trying to steal away some time to read this little booklet I purchased at the supermarket while I was grocery shopping

I glanced through it briefly and knew right away that this was truly a tool for any Parent, whether your children are infants or full grown adults. I think in this journey we make, it's sometimes difficult to know just how to carry out one of the most important responsibilities- that of knowing how to guide and teach our little ones as they embark on their own journey. Above all, even if your parenting skills are abysmal, the one thing that will cover all your shortcomings will be prayer. But knowing how or when to pray is also at the core of the matter. From looking at this book, I believe I will be empowered to know how. I thank the Lord for leading me to it. I truly wish I'd found it years ago, especially during my Sons' formative years. But it's never to late too pray for anyone. The prayers in the book are simple, very simple, but they cover exactly what I wish I'd known to pray about. I especially like that it includes Scriptures- the better to meditate on what you learned. I very heartily recommend it. And no, I'm not doing a review of it per se. It's just one of those little gems you discover along the way and feel you simply must share.

Well, now I'm off to enjoy a plate of the stroganoff. I was taking a rest while my Son enjoyed it. I actually had to make a trip to the store to get the sour cream and mushrooms. I had everything else, but when he said he wanted stroganoff, you can bet this Abuelita was going to get the ingredients, even if it meant a trip to the store in cold, drizzly weather. My Sweetie will be stopping by soon for some coffee and dinner, but then he goes back to work.

For New Year's, it will probably just be my Sweetie and I, so I don't plan on making anything elaborate. I want to keep it simple. Some sandwiches, chips and dips should carry us through nicely. We'll pop a bottle of bubbly, and toast the New Year sitting by the fire. Just like last year, listening to the firecrackers exploding all around. Those are the plans, if it's God's will that we should greet the New Year.

Love,