My Lavish Life

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

GO CATS!

March Madness

2011-03-21T06:40:00.000-07:00

I love SPRING! I love the blooms on the forsythia, Bradford pear and dogwood trees. I love that my tulips are up and that the days are getting longer. I love the sunshine and warmer temperatures and most of all I love MARCH MADNESS, BABY (imagine that in my best Dick Vitale impersonation)!! A lot of time was spent this weekend in front of the tv keeping up with my bracket (which I'm not doing very well on, thanks UofL) and cheering on my favorite team! I'm so glad it warmed up so I could wear my UK flip flops and share my Big Blue toes with everyone! Now you know my favorite team, who are you cheering for?

Irish I Was A Better Blogger

2011-03-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! Yes, I am still around. It has been a VERY LONG time since I've blogged. I'm having a hard time juggling everything now that I'm a working girl! I had to share this year's version of Hannah's all green lunch for St. Patrick's Day. She will be in middle school next year, so I'm thinking this may be the last year for all the fun. I know there will be new kinds of fun, but an all green lunch might be a tad embarrassing! I hope that when she is older she will come to appreciate all the memories that I have tried to make.

I will leave you with this Irish blessing:

Wherever you go and whatever you do
May the luck of the Irish be there with you

Happy St. Patty's Day!

I've Got Spirit, Yes I Do!

2010-12-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

We kicked off the holiday season this year by going to Hannah's Christmas dance recital. Since moving to Bowling Green, this has been one of the highlights of our Christmas season here. This year her tap dance was to Michael Buble's version of Let It Snow and her jazz number was to a version of Sleigh Ride. She did a fabulous job, as always. (I would probably say that even if she got on the stage and didn't have a lick of rhythm! I'm allowed, I'm her proud mama!) I always enjoy this performance. The theatre where the recital is held is located in our town square and everything is decorated for the season. I don't know if it was the music, dancing or hearing Let It Snow and then walking outside to find snowflakes falling down around the twinkling lights of our fountain square, but that evening I was officially in the Christmas spirit!

I've got spirit, yes I do! I've got spirit, how bout you?

Happy Birthday Hannah

2010-12-16T06:04:00.001-08:00

I am a day late in doing this post. Yesterday my sweet Hannah turned 12 years old. It is astounding at how fast the years are flying by!

Hannah I am so glad that the Lord brought you into my life 12 years ago. You have brought such joy to our family. Daddy and I are so blessed to be your parents. We are so proud of the young lady that you are becoming. Happy Birthday sweet girl, we love you more than you will ever know!

Thankful For Crow's Feet?

2010-11-22T19:10:00.000-08:00

This time of year many of us examine our lives and think about the things that we are most thankful for. Sometimes what makes us most thankful are not things at all. One might not be too thrilled about getting those first fine lines and wrinkles, in fact many people spend lots of $$$ to get rid of the signs of aging. I'm thankful for my crow's feet. They are there because there has been a lot of laughter in my life. (I'll blame them on laughter and some squinty days at the beach, for which I am also grateful)!

I hope you all will find something to laugh about this week.

The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. -E.E. Cummings

Shuf-fle Step

2010-11-09T06:42:00.000-08:00

Hannah has come a long way in her dancing from the shuf-fle step that she learned at age 3. I always look forward to the one week each semester that parents are allowed to observe during class. I took tap for years and it always takes me back to listen to the teacher call out those familiar terms and to hear those familiar rhythms. This fall the class has been working on a number for their Christmas recital. I can't wait to see the polished up version in the performance!

I Know Where I Rank

2010-11-08T14:26:00.001-08:00

My mom called me a couple of days ago and asked if I had seen her copy of the picture of me and my dog, Dino, from my wedding. (I know weird to have a photo with your dog on your wedding day. What can I say? I am an only child!) Anyhoo, the picture has been in a frame in my parents living room for the past seventeen years. My mother just can't imagine where she has misplaced it. She said "I just hate to lose that picture!" The situation was bothering her so that I just had to ask, "Are you more upset because it is a picture of your daughter on her wedding day, or because it is a picture of the dog that we had for sixteen years?" She replied, "Well, both, but it is a really good picture of Dino."

TGIF

2010-11-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love Fridays? Sometimes I look forward to the end of the week because I have exciting plans for the weekend and sometimes I am thrilled because my weekend calendar is blank. Oh the possibilities of two days with no commitments! We spend many Saturdays in the fall travelling to Lexington because we love football time in the bluegrass, but the Wildcats are going to have to pull out this home game without us! I am so thankful to get to spend a weekend at home (and don't worry we haven't forsaken our team all together, we will be wearing blue and white)!

There's no place like home! -Dorothy

Jump In

2010-11-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

Hannah's 6th grade year thus far has been the year to jump in and try new things. Like jumping off that rope swing in the above picture, some things have been a little scary and are a bit of a challenge. She has always excelled in school and many things have come easy for her, until (cue scary music, eek, eek, eek, eek) pre-algebra. Hannah was 1 of 11 students that qualified to participate in an on-line course. We discussed it and decided that it would be good for her to take because she would be a class ahead in math in high school. It has been very challenging and there have been some rough nights getting through homework (thank goodness my husband can rock an algebraic equation, because, friends, I am no mathematician). I am so proud of my girl for jumping in and trying something that she knew was not going to be a breeze. She is learning that things don't always come easy and that hard work pays off. We were thrilled to see an A on her report card the first quarter!

Hannah also applied to be on her school's technology team. She was accepted and is thrilled to be a member of her school news team. I pray that Hannah will always have the courage and confidence to jump in! Disappointment is a part of life, but you never no what you might be able to accomplish if you just try!

Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. -Dale Carnegie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T05:45:00.001-07:00

Fashion Statement

2010-11-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

There are many things that mothers should teach their daughters, like how to braid, how to use a curling iron and how to apply make-up that looks natural and not "made up". Then there are fashion rules that should be passed down to the next generation such as, never wear white after Labor Day, when you do wear white pants or shorts (before Labor Day, of course) make sure that you are wearing the appropriate undergarments (you know, NO FLOWERS), and absolutely never mix stripes and plaid! I guess I haven't stressed that last one enough with Hannah!

Where's Harry?

2010-11-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter's sidekick, Hermione Granger, was spotted in the trees beside my house last night. I wasn't aware that the Hogwart's Express made stops in the Bluegrass! Hermione was dressed in the latest Griffendor fashion, with her black robe trimmed in maroon and maroon and gold striped tie. She was armed and ready with her ivy trimmed wand in hand. I just wonder, where was Harry Potter?

Mums The Word

2010-10-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

Yes friends, mum has been the word since JULY! I apologize to all my loyal followers, all 2 or 3 of you! I won't even bore you with all the reasons I have for not blogging. I wish I could tell you it was because I have been on some extravagant trip like backpacking Europe, on safari in Africa or cruising the Mediterranean. I haven't been to any of those places, but my travels over the last few months have taken me to Dollywood (don't get too excited people, that's with a D not an H), actually, it was a very fun place to visit. I also got to visit that famous mouse that lives in Florida recently and I had a brief stay at Hogwarts. After all that travel I think Dorothy was right. There's no place like home!

I had a wonderful summer but I am so glad fall is finally here. I love this time of year. The color in the trees has been so gorgeous the last few days. Last weekend we visited a couple that grow and sell mums on their farm. They had so many different colors and varieties. I am really enjoying the daisy variety that I chose for the pots by my front door. They add just the right pop of color. Everyone needs a little pop of color in their life!

Happy Fall Y'all!

Roughin It Part 2

2010-07-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will be leaving for a week of church camp. The above pictures are scenes from last year's camp. What a wonderful week of fun and spiritual renewal. Last year I was a first time camper. Yes, I was deprived as a child and never went to summer camp! This year I will be a counselor in a cabin full of first timers. There will be nine girls that will be entering 5th grade. Please pray that it will be a fun week for all of us and that I can be the example that I need to be and a mom to these girls when they are missing theirs. I pray that God will be glorified this week and that we are drawn closer to Him and to each other.

Roughin It

2010-07-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

Every summer we say we want to go camping and then somehow time gets away from us. There are always camps, vacations, ballgames, work and too many other things that consume our short summer months. This year we FINALLY did it. We hadn't been camping in so long that Hannah doesn't even remember the last time. SO SAD! It was a short stay but I hope this trip will be a long term deposit in her memory bank. We went to a state park that is less than an hour from where we live. We dined on hobo dinners from the grill and of course we had smores for dessert. It's not camping if you don't have smores! We had so much fun just getting away for a little while that we hope to make it a more frequent occurrence. I do love all the modern conveniences of home (and a nice hotel), but it is also nice to fall asleep to the crickets' lullaby and awaken to singing birds!

Goodbye 5th Grade

2010-06-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

We have been out of school for several weeks and I am just getting around to blogging about the end of the year. (I realize my blog follows a random time line. That's just how my mind works.) This school year started out a little rough (okay now that I think back, a lot rough), but we made it! Hannah had to go to a new school, due to redistricting, after only being at her previous school for one year. She was devastated! She made some wonderful new friends and none of them were going to the new school with her. I tried to encourage her with the positives. 1. She would make new friends and still have her old friends. 2. They will all be back together for middle school. 3. In middle school she will have an abundance of friends from attending two elementary schools. Those things were hard for her to see those first few weeks of school. She cried a lot and said that she is just tired of always being the new kid. (This school makes her 4th elementary school). Through lots of tears (hers and mine) and prayer things improved after a few weeks. She may not realize it yet but this experience has made her a stronger individual and has been preparation for other things in the future.

Hannah really had a good 5th grade year. She excelled in academics and she made some new friends (I knew her mother was right)! The pictures above were taken at the end of the year party. I love to see that smile on her face!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

Heads Up!

2010-06-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

Have y'all ever eaten at Lambert's, the home of the throwed roll? If you haven't it needs to go on your list of things to do. We ate at the one in Foley, Alabama near Gulf Shores last summer. (Since I wasn't blogging then, I have some catching up to do!)This is one of those dining establishments that if you leave hungry it's your own fault. The portions are ENORMOUS! There is a catch(literally) to eating at Lambert's. To take part in one of those fluffy, delicious risen dough balls of goodness you have to get the attention of one of the roll throwers and catch your roll. It's a good thing that I played a good bit of softball in my day, cause I like me some bread!

Flipper and Friends

2010-06-09T22:11:00.000-07:00

Last summer we vacationed in Gulf Shores, Alabama and had a wonderful trip. One of the highlights of our trip was going on a dolphin cruise and getting to watch these magnificent creatures in action. I'm wondering how Flipper and his friends are fairing this summer. My heart goes out to the folks in the gulf that are suffering through this tragic oil spill. I pray that our finned and feathered friends will be out of danger very soon.

I Hope You Dance

2010-06-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

Each year that Hannah dances in her end of the year performance I enjoy it even more than the recital before. It has been such a joy to watch her skills improve as she has become a graceful, confident young lady. I danced growing up as well and I am thrilled that Hannah has the passion too. When you have a love of something it is difficult to understand when your child doesn't share your interest. I was a little sad (actually my heart was broken) when Hannah didn't want to take ballet this year. I think she is a beautiful ballerina, but she didn't love that form of dance, so I had to let her give it up. I'm so thankful that she was honest with me and didn't continue because she thought that is what I wanted her to do. You can tell by the look on her face that she truly does enjoy jazz and tap. (No ballet number also meant that I didn't have to get all of that long hair into a ballet bun! Woo Hoo!) Hannah you are a fabulous dancer, but remember, mama's still got the moves. I did beat you at Just Dance on the wii last night! Love you sweetheart!

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean

Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens.

Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance,

I HOPE YOU DANCE!

Dancing Queen

2010-05-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

Hannah has worked so hard at dance this year. (As you can see by the big yawn in the corner picture. She wasn't bored, she was exhausted!) She really has blossomed into a beautiful dancer. I'm so proud of her. Dance has been a part of her life since she was 3 years old. She's come a long way since performing to Shirley Temple's Animal Crackers In My Soup at her very first recital. I'm pretty sure that I still remember all the dance steps as well as the words to that song! The dances have become too advanced for me to remember, but the songs were memorable this year. The Beatles provided music for jazz with Here Comes The Sun and her tap number was to It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing. (Recital pics to come)

It takes an athlete to dance,
but an artist to be a dancer.
-Shanna LaFleur

Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

And I'm proud to be an American
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died
who gave that right to me.

-Lee Greenwood

(Yes, the photos are a little old, but they are some of my faves!)

Holy Guacamole!

2010-05-23T14:40:00.000-07:00

On May 5th I planned a fabulous Mexican feast to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. On the menu were beef enchiladas with red sauce, corn on the cob and homemade guacamole with chips. My mouth had been watering all day for that guacamole. I can't tell you my disappointment when I cut into my avocado and it was no good! So we celebrated Ocho de Mayo instead of Cinco de Mayo with some delicious guacamole. If Chad Johnson of the Cincinnati Bengals can officially change his name to Ocho Cinco then we can change our Mexican Fiesta to May 8th! (Personally I think Ocho Cinco is mucho loco, but who am I to judge?)

There is a bit of a story that goes along with the guac. recipe. To my knowledge I had never even had this tasty avocado treat until about 10 years go when I went to New Mexico with my cousin. We traveled there for her cousin's wedding. The bride's mother and step father hosted a pre-wedding party in their home the night we arrived. Their home was a gorgeous adobe set in the hills of Santa Fe. As I enjoyed my guac. and chips in a colorful southwest style kitchen, the chef that provided all the food for the occasion asked if I liked the guac. I gave my compliments to the chef and he replied "Julia Child told me it's the best she's ever had." Coming from most people this would totally be a joke. People, HE WASN'T JOKING! The man had cooked for Julia Child! Needless to say I was more than a little impressed. I wish I'd asked for a cooking lesson or at least a tip or two.

Every trip I take I bring home a cookbook as a souvenir. As I was skimming my new Santa Fe cookbook, The Santa Fe School of Cooking Cookbook, I realized that the chef I had met at the party was in a picture in the book. He teaches at the Santa Fe School of Cooking and , wait for it....the guacamole recipe was in the book! Mucho Bueno! I would love to share it with you so you will be ready for the next Cinco de Mayo, Ocho de Mayo or Cinco de Juno, whenever you feel like a fiesta! French probably doesn't fit this story, but since this is Julia Child's favorite guacamole, BON APPETIT!

Julia's Favorite Guacamole

3 ripe avocados

3/4 cup finely diced white onion

3/4 cup diced ripe plum tomatoes

2-3 tablespoons finely chopped serrano chiles, to taste

1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

2 teaspoons coarse salt, to taste

1. Cut each avocado in half and remove the pit. Cut the halves in half and carefully peel off the skin.

2. Cut the quarters into chunks and place in a medium bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork and stir in the onion, tomatoes, chiles, and cilantro. Season the mixture with lime juice and salt. Keep covered with plastic wrap pressed against the surface of the guacamole until ready to serve.

Celebration of Excellence

2010-05-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

This morning our school held their Celebration of Excellence awards ceremony. Students were recognized for their accomplishments in last year's state testing. The awards are motivation for them to strive to do their best on this year's testing. Awards are presented to those that received proficient or distinguished scores. Hannah earned distinguished honors in all three areas of testing, math, science and reading. Mike and I couldn't be more proud of our honor student! Way to go Hannah!

Treat For Tuesday

2010-04-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

This week's Treat For Tuesday features a pie that I make every spring. It is named after that famous horse race that is held every first Saturday in May in Louisville, Kentucky. It is a registered trademark name so we will call it Thoroughbred Pie, or Kentucky Pie, or Race Day Pie. It really doesn't matter what you call it. It is delicious!

Ingredients:
1 cup granulated Sugar
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
pinch of salt
1-9 inch pastry shell, unbaked
1 stick melted butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Pour nuts and chocolate chips into pie shell, spreading evenly. In a small bowl, whisk 2 eggs. Add sugar and flour stirring to blend well. Whisk in 1 teaspoon vanilla and the melted butter. Blend well. Pour batter evenly over nuts and chocolate chips. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until nicely browned. Serve with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.

Until the day that I get to wear a wide brimmed hat and sit on Millionaire's Row at Churchill Downs, I'll just enjoy my pie, while listening to Dan Fogelberg sing Run For The Roses in the background and watch the race from the comfort of my old Kentucky home!

I hope y'all enjoy!

Of Moose And Man

2010-04-14T08:53:00.001-07:00

Did y'all know that I married Bullwinkle? This photo makes me chuckle every time I look at it. I hope it puts a smile on your face! Honey, I hope you don't mind that I felt the need to share!

Like Sands Through The Hourglass...

2010-04-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

You know the phrase "Like sands through the hourglass, these are the days of our lives"? I could say "Like the hands on this clock, these are the days of my life". That clock has been in that exact spot my entire life, really longer than I've been alive. It sits on the hutch in my parents kitchen. They received it as a wedding gift in 1964. I'm sure that the person that gave it would never have dreamed that it would be the gift that has kept on giving and giving and giving. A gift for the ages you might say.

My dad has always set it about 5 minutes fast in hopes that it might move us along and get us promptly to our destination. Mom and I always knew we could leave at 9:50 instead of 9:45 and still get to church in plenty of time. Sadly, we were notorious for leaving at 9:55 and were always late. Sorry Dad, I know you hate being tardy!

7:05 was the time that I watched for on school mornings. That is when I could expect the big yellow goose (my mom's nickname for the school bus). This clock has been the time piece for many important events in my life. I watched in anticipation of dates to pick me up for the prom, when I was in college it helped me leave home in time to get back to UK before dark when I would come home on the weekends, and I'm sure I gave it more than a few glances on my wedding day.

I can't remember a time when Mom's ringholder wasn't sitting next to that clock. Even today it holds her watch, 1960 class ring (which she still wears) and her wedding rings while she does dishes. These tangible objects have somehow become symbols of longevity. It's comforting to know that whether you are talking about clocks or marriages, some things do indeed stand the test of time.

Sunshine In My Soul

2010-04-09T12:52:00.000-07:00

You know they say milk does a body good. It must be the vitamin D! I don't know about y'all, but since the arrival of spring and some much anticipated sunny days my spirits have been lifted to the heights! I think I have been needing a healthy dose of sunlight. I think the vitamin D in sunshine gives nourishment to the soul. It does a spirit good! I have had a song on my mind all day today. The sunshine has been divine and it reminded me of a hymn we sang in the church where I grew up. I have been humming There Is Sunshine in My Soul all day.

There Is Sunshine in My Soul

There is sunshine in my soul today,
More glorious and bright
Than glows in any earthly sky,
For Jesus is my light.

O there's sunshine blessed sunshine,
While the peaceful, happy moments roll;
When Jesus shows His smiling face,
There is sunshine in my soul.

My prayer is that you all have the sun on your face and a song in your soul.
Blessings y'all!

Hebrews 11:1

2010-03-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Hannah took this photo for an upcoming photography contest that she is entering as part of the Lads to Leaderettes program. This year's theme is Faith is the Victory. She added the verse Hebrews 11:1 underneath the photo.

Hello Spring!

2010-03-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Spring
Oh, I've missed you so
You're a welcome guest
As the flowers begin to grow

Daffodils and tulips are soon on their way
Won't it be a glorious day
When they open in all their splendor to see
Blooms from above for you and for me

Goodbye Winter!

2010-03-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Goodbye Winter
It's time for you to go
We have enjoyed your time
Especially the snow

You were beautiful in your own special way
Magnificent this year
But you can not stay
You are no longer welcome here

We've put away our fleece and woolen sweaters
Looking forward to the days ahead and much warmer weather

Leprehauns?

2010-03-17T08:30:00.001-07:00

Hannah's classmates may ask her if leprechauns packed her lunch! No magical little green men, just her silly Irish mom. She started her day with the proper St. Patty's Day breakfast of Lucky Charms. (She usually does not get that much sugar for breakfast on a school day, but it is a special occasion!) I served them to her and spoke in my best Irish accent that " It isn't everyday that you get Lucky Charms on a school morning and they are magically delicious!" She told me that she had never heard a worse Irish accent! Then her dad came in and said good morning and she asked if that was supposed to be an Irish accent because it was worse than mom's! She really knows how to build us up!

An Irish saying:

There are good ships, and there are wood ships,

the ships that sail the sea.

But the best ships are friendships, and may they always be.

An Irish blessing:

May your thoughts be as glad as shamrocks,

May your heart be as light as a song,

May each day bring you bright happy hours,

That stay with you all year long.

Quote from St. Patrick:

Christ beside me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Future Teacher?

2010-03-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

As a member of the 4-H program, yesterday Hannah had the opportunity to participate in a career shadowing day. Several weeks ago she filled out a workbook that helped her explore many different occupations. She then had to interview someone in a career that she finds interesting. Hannah talked with a friend of ours that is an interior designer. We both think that sounds like a fantastic job! Next, she had to narrow down her top career choices and she was paired with someone to spend the day with. Hannah didn't get to shadow a designer, but she did get to spend time with a fabulous teacher, which was another job at the top of her list.

I could tell she was a little apprehensive about spending the day at a different school, but it turned out to be a great experience. The teacher was very friendly and informative. It was fun for Hannah to see school from a teacher's perspective. While she was having lunch in the teacher's lounge she lost a tooth! One teacher commented that, that doesn't happen very often in there! Ha!

I don't know what my sweet girl will be when she grows up, but she does have many qualities needed to be a great teacher. She is smart, organized, nurturing and she is a role model. On the other hand, she is also very artistic and has an eye for detail. Those characteristics would be well suited for an interior designer!

Whatever path she chooses to take in life, my prayer is that she will be a well rounded, confident, Christian woman. The Lord is preparing her, even as an eleven year old girl for the woman that she is destined to become.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 29:11

And They Call It Puppy Love

2010-03-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

Watching Minnie resting on the couch was too much for Hannah and I to bear. We had to show her some love! I mean, really, have you seen anything cuter!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-03T07:23:00.000-08:00

Treat For Tuesday

2010-03-02T14:43:00.000-08:00

Today I want to share a delicious dessert recipe with you. It is apple dumplins and you won't believe the secret ingredient that makes these soooo goood! I am thrilled that Hannah is taking an interest in helping out in the kitchen. She made this recipe almost all on her own the other night. I'm thinking that I may be raising a future Food Network star!

Apple Dumplins

2 cans Crescent rolls
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and cut into 8 pieces each
2 sticks butter (Paula Deen would love this recipe!)
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon cinnamon-plus a little more (seriously the recipe says that)
12 ounce can Mountain Dew (secret ingredient)

Spray 9X13 pan. Separate crescent rolls, place 1 slice apple in each, roll up. Place in pan.
In sauce pan, melt butter, add sugar and cinnamon. Cook about 5 minutes. Pour over apples. Pour secret ingredient (I know it sounds strange, but TRUST ME on this one) over all and bake 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees. This is divine served with ice cream!

Refiner's Fire

2010-02-23T20:10:00.000-08:00

I thought about this story as I was polishing my silver tea set this afternoon. I hope you enjoy this message of how the Lord teaches and refines us!

There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter three, they came across verse three which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." (Malachi 3:3) This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study. That week this woman called up a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot. Then she thought again about the verse, that he sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy-when I see my image in it."

Author Unknown

Isn't it a comfort to know that as we go through trials God is with us? He keeps his eyes on us the entire time, just as the silversmith keeps his eyes on the silver.

Crop For The Cure

2010-02-22T08:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, friends, I have a new hobby. Actually, it isn't really new, I've just recently decided to put all the scrapbooking tools to use that I have collected over time. Years ago I bought some supplies and hoped to preserve our family memories for future generations, but I didn't have the passion to stick with it. I think now I have the bug out of regret. Hannah is 11 now and I am WAAAAY behind. I could get really bogged down with all the years that I have to catch up on, but I am just going to start with recent events and then eventually work my way back.

Last weekend I went to an all day scrapbooking event called Crop for the Cure. It was a great opportunity to spend the day with good friends and support a great cause. My scrapbook buddies, Joanna and Terri, were so sweet to share their gadgets with me. These women are serious scrappers! They know all the tricks and have every tool imaginable! They are sure that my meager rolling bag and photo box are going to multiply into all sorts of essentials for my scrapbook needs. Next year I could quite possibly need Two Men and a Truck to move my things to our table. I really enjoy being creative and crafty, but there are some other things to be gained from this new hobby of mine. First, all of our family memories will be preserved. Second, friendships are being strengthened by spending time together. Thanks ladies, I really enjoyed spending time with you. I'm thinking I may have to do a scrapbook of scrapbookers!

You're Still The One

2010-02-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

Twenty-one years ago today my life was changed forever. I went on my first date with the man that I would eventually marry. Who knew that going to see Tom Hanks in The Burbs would rock my world. I obviously didn't judge the success of our first date by the movie selection, because, let's just say it was less than Oscar worthy. It's a good thing that Forrest Gump thing worked out for Tom, because his performance in The Burbs was taking him nowhere fast!

I am so glad that I agreed to dinner and a movie with that tall, cowboy boot wearing, frat boy all those years ago. The Lord has blessed us with an incredible life. If given a "do over" I would absolutely say yes again, but I think I would choose the movie this time! Mike, I love you and thank you for this lavish life that we share. I'm enjoying the journey with you. We're still havin' fun and you're still the one!

VLM 217

Inquiring Minds Want To Know

2010-02-14T14:48:00.001-08:00

Several of you have inquired about The 30 Day Shred. It is not going well, friends, because it hardly got started. I have had a pain in my neck (literally). I know people complain that things are a "pain in the neck" but this is a real pain. Anyhoo, I have been afraid that I might really be injured if I let myself be put through Jillian's rigor. The last few days I have felt back to normal, so I think I will start back at Day 1 tomorrow. Thanks to those of you who were concerned that I had whithered away or something. Also, just to assure my friends that are worried that I have some twisted view of myself, I am not doing this to lose weight, I just want to incorporate some activity into my generally sedentary life. I just feel better if I have some type of exercise. So, until spring decides to arrive and I can get outside and walk, this is my action plan. Wish me luck!

I hope everyone is having a Happy Valentine's Day!

Day 1

2010-02-04T08:48:00.001-08:00

Yes, friends, the time has come, Day 1 of the 30 Day Shred. Thanksgiving, Christmas and too many snow days cooped up in the house have caught up with me. Most people stock up on bread and milk before a winter storm. I store up chips, cookies, pizza and ice cream. That is also a good time to try new recipes. I made a delicious toasted marshmallow shake that was to die for. I also had to make snow cream since I had an abundance of the main ingredient. I know you are thinking that snow can't be very high in calories, ah, but when you make the Paula Deen version of snow cream that is another story! Ladies, the recipe calls for a can of sweetened condensed milk, so you know it was good!

I am bracing myself for the whipping that my body is about to endure. But, if it will get me arms that look like Kelly Ripa's, endure I will! I may have had a big birthday in the past year, I just don't want to look like it. I'm determined to turn the flab into fab! Wish me luck, I know Jillian is going to put me through the wringer.

Shhh! It's Top Secret

2010-01-29T13:01:00.000-08:00

For years the owners of Serendipity refused to reveal the recipe for their famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. Even Jackie Kennedy could not get it so that it could be served at a White House gala. Finally, for their 50th anniversary as a thank you to their loyal customers they shared the secret! I have the recipe for this luscious treat in a cookbook that I bought while in NYC called Sweet Serendipity. Here it is:

Frrrozen Hot Chocolate

6 half-ounce pieces of a variety of your favorite chocolates
2 teaspoons storebought hot chocolate mix
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 cups milk
3 cups ice
whipped cream
Chocolate shavings

-Chop the chocolate into small pieces and place it in the top of a double boiler over simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted. Add the hot chocolate mix and sugar, stirring constantly until thoroughly blended. Remove from heat and slowly add 1/2 cup of the milk and stir until smooth. Cool to room temperature.

-In a blender place the remaining cup of milk, the room temperature chocolate mixture, and the ice. Blend on high speed until smooth and the consistency of a frozen daiquiri. Pour into a giant goblet and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings Enjoy with a spoon or a straw-or both!

"For truly authentic Serendipity taste, throw a sprinkle of magic in the mix." Stephen Bruce (Serendipity owner)

Sweet Serendipity

2010-01-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

Ser-en-dip-i-ty

-noun

-good luck in making unexpected and fortunate discoveries.

Serendipity is something that I hope all of you have experienced. It's like when you go shopping for snow boots, but you come across a pair of fabulous leopard print, open toed shoes that will be perfect for spring. I love when life is full of grand surprises!

Before going to New York City last fall I watched a show with Rachel Ray giving her recommendations for must sees in NYC. Serendipity3 was a top pick. Rachel, my friend, you know how to pick em! We loved it! The restaurant is located in a Manhattan townhouse in a quiet area on 60th Street. The outside is very unassuming. When you open the doors to walk inside you are entering a magical place. It is decorated with more Tiffany style lamps than you can imagine and a menagerie of antique Victorian finds. The menu is one of the biggest I have ever seen. We did not have a meal there, but there is definitely something for everyone. They serve everything from hot dogs to caviar. We went specifically for their famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. (I'm not even going to describe it with words, my face in the corner picture pretty much sums it up! If you are wondering, that is indeed a little blue Tiffany's bag sitting beside me!) If that doesn't satisfy your chocolate craving they also offer a Golden Opulence Sundae containing rare chocolates with a price tag of $1000.00. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this magically delicious place you absolutely should. You may just sit at a table that has been graced by Jackie Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Steven Spielberg or John Travolta. Tomorrow I will post the top secret recipe for the famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate so you can make your own until you get the chance to visit in person. I hope you have an encounter with sweet serendipity today!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-27T13:12:00.000-08:00

Whatever Is Lovely

2010-01-25T10:35:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.

I have this verse on a plaque in my home. It is a wonderful reminder that helps get my thoughts back on track when I lose focus. I don't know about you, but there are so many things that can become a distraction that I often need a gentle push in the right direction. I pray that you will be blessed with praiseworthy thoughts today!

Essentials For A Great Snow Day

2010-01-18T20:41:00.000-08:00

1. Wear your pajamas inside out and them leave them on all day! (Even wear them under your snow pants, who will know?)

2. Catch a snowflake on your tongue. (Just don't try putting your tongue on a frozen flagpole!)

3. Be sure to have some warm mittens. (Ours were warm from the oven.)

4. Drink plenty of fluids. You have to keep your energy up for the snowball fights and sled rides! (Fluid of choice-hot cocoa)

5. If you spend a lot of time trying to catch what appears to be a ball in your mouth, but then it falls apart when you catch it, take a nap!

That last one was for our four legged friends who love the snow!

Snow Much Fun

2010-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month we got to enjoy some snow days. We were so busy during Christmas break that it was nice to have a few days to just relax at home. Winter weather is not so desirable if I'm the one driving on the slick roads, but this time I had no where to go. My kitchen was stocked with the essentials (plenty of hot cocoa and comfort foods) so I was like a child eagerly awaiting the possibility of some winter accumulation. Hannah thinks that when there is snow in the forecast that if you wear your pajamas inside out you will be certain to wake up to a winter wonderland. I wouldn't call what we had a winter wonderland, but it was more than a dusting, so we'll just say that the pj's came through this time! It's a good thing that I wore my inside out pajamas nearly all day or there might not have been enough snow for a snow angel. (Just had to do my part for the cause). We had SNOW MUCH FUN! I hope y'all have had a chance to have some cold weather fun!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-13T09:15:00.000-08:00

Cheep Entertainment

2010-01-07T12:36:00.000-08:00

I was thrilled to receive a bird feeder for Christmas this year. It didn't take long for my feathered friends to find their new place to dine. One furry friend also thought he had found a new eatery, but this one is "squirrel proof". Go dig up some of those nuts you buried last summer! I love to watch the little finches scurry about and the cardinals are just gorgeous against the new fallen snow. Forget Regis and Kelly! This morning the birds are much more entertaining!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-06T08:38:00.000-08:00

Birthday Bash 2009

2010-01-05T10:10:00.000-08:00

Each year I find great joy in planning Hannah's birthday party. It takes a lot of energy, but I try to channel my inner Martha Stewart and see what happens. Having Melissa Lester for a BFF is also a plus. She is the birthday party guru! Check out her children's parties at A Little Loveliness. She throws celebrations that are nothing short of spectacular!

Hannah and I usually start the planning with a theme. This year we combined her birthday party with the second annual evening of carolling with her friends. In the past I have tried desperately to keep her birthday totally seperate from holiday celebrations. I feel bad for those of you who were born in December or January. Just so you know I will never wrap your birthday gift in red or green! Your welcome! Hannah assured me that she was okay with having a party with a little Christmas flare. So we rolled with the idea.

We started with invitations that were attached to an ornament that we personalized for each girl with a monogrammed sticker. Thanks to Kelly's Korner for that idea! We started the evening with dinner and then an ornament exchange. Next it was time for the girls to warm up their vocal chords for some Christmas carolling. Thanks to all my friends who opened their door to those wild and crazy girls. I hope your little ones enjoyed the show! We ended the evening with the birthday girl opening her gifts and blowing out 11 candles. It was an exhausting but fun night!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-30T06:18:00.000-08:00

New Additions

2009-12-29T19:52:00.000-08:00

Every year I look so forward to opening our ornament box. It is like opening a box of treasured memories. Each year a few more are added to the collection and this year was no exception. The Ale 8 bottle ornament was given to me by my mother in law. Ale 8 is a soft drink that is made in my husband's hometown. The "He hunts therefore I shop" ornament was given to me by my sister in law. She knows me so well! It should say, "He hunts therefore we shop!". The glass New York will be a reminder of the wonderful trip we had to NYC this fall. Hannah received several new ones as well. Lucy's chocolate factory will help us remember what a terrific Lucy she was at Halloween and I glittered the "H" to adorn one of her birthday gifts. The monogrammed ball is a sample of the ornament that we attached to all of her birthday invitations. I am sad that it is time to close up the box yet again. I wonder what momentos will be added to the collection next year.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

Time Flies

2009-12-15T14:14:00.000-08:00

My how the time has flown. My sweet Hannah turns eleven today. I will post about the festivities later in the week, right now we have some celebrating to do!

Christmas Recital

2009-12-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

Our weekend was very busy with holiday festivities. Saturday Hannah was in a Christmas dance recital. She performed in a tap number-Dig That Crazy Santa Claus and a jazz number-Let it Snow. She did a terrific job! My girl can bust a move! (I don't know if people use that expression anymore, but I am a product of the 80's.) I'll just be honest, she gets it from me. Back in the day I could Roger Rabbit and moon walk with the best of them! I hope you enjoy the pics from the afternoon.

Truly Scrumptious

2009-12-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

Last night I attended a cookie exchange party. Cookie Monster would have been in heaven. There were cookies of every size, shape and flavor. Everyone was asked to bring 6 dozen of one type of cookie to share. We then were provided a bakery box by our hostess and filled them up with a variety of cookies to take home. There were prizes given for best tasting cookie, prettiest cookie and best presentation. I had my cookies all packed up to go to the party in Tupperware when I remembered the contest. The pressure was on! I couldn't take them in plain old plastic! I quickly found a platter and asked very nicely for my husband to go out in the cold and cut some holly sprigs to lay on my platter. Sadly the birds have had a feast on our holly berries and we only had one berry left. Holly is just not very festive without berries. I explained that I was very appreciative that he weathered the cold for me, but I just couldn't possibly use holly leaves with no berries. Thank goodness I married a man with an eye for detail. He totally understood. I didn't win a prize for my cookies, but I think they are truly scrumptious.

One of my favorite movies has a character named Truly Scrumptious. Can you name it?

I took Coconut Corn Flake Cookies to the party. Here is the recipe.

3/4 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups coconut
2 cups self-rising flour
2 cups corn flakes

Cream butter and sugars. Then add eggs, vanilla, coconut, flour and corn flakes. Drop by spoonful on cookie sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes.

Been There and Bought the T-shirt

2009-12-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I spent my day on the 5th and 6th grade choir 2009 Christmas tour. The first stop was a nursing home (I missed that leg of the tour), then on to the courthouse. Our performers then got to have lunch at the mall. This is the part of the tour where I became invisible to my daughter. I know she loves me and we are very close, but right now her friends are very important to her. But, I gave birth to her for goodness sake, shouldn't she want to spend all of her time with me, her lovely mother? I know she is just beginning to spread her wings, I just like her in the nest. Okay, let me get a tissue and wipe my eyes and we'll get back to the tour. The last stop was at an assisted living home. The choir did a beautiful job. Afterward the students mingled with the residents, wishing them a Merry Christmas. I'm sure many of the kids were out of their comfort zone, but I was so proud of the way they conducted themselves. They truly were young ladies and gentlemen. Being a groupie is exhausting, but I can say that I've been there and bought the t-shirt (actually, there were no t-shirts, but I totally would have bought one).

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-09T05:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Blessings

2009-12-08T19:10:00.000-08:00

We look so forward every year to receiving Christmas greetings from our family and friends. It is so nice to hear what has transpired in each family over the past year. As the cards come in we remember good times shared with friendships old and new. It has become a tradition that we lift up these precious families in prayer as we receive their cards. We are so thankful that the Lord has blessed us with so many special relationships and pray His richest blessings for all of you.

Weekend Fun With the Fam

2009-12-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful weekend! My aunt and cousin came for a visit. As a child I always enjoyed spending the night at Aunt Mayme's house. I remember swimming in their pool, eating LaRosa's pizza, watching movies and staying up late. There was never a dull moment. I'm thrilled that we were able to spend some time together and make new memories. Saturday was spent in Music City. I love seeing the Opryland Hotel decorated for the holidays. We didn't have time to go inside, but the outside is just magical! We started our day with lunch at the Macaroni Grill. It was delicious! I have a new fondness for their blackberry mint iced tea, sweet, of course! Then it was off to do some Christmas shopping. It's hard to tell that there is a recession going on by the many, many cars in the parking lot and the crowds of people in the mall. We didn't boost the economy very much with our purchases, but we had a lot of fun window shopping and people watching!

I was a little disappointed that our guests had to leave so early Sunday morning that they didn't get to join us for church. The singing was especially uplifting to me this week. We sang one of my favorites, Our God, He Is Alive. We sat in the front and could hear everyone singing out in beautiful harmony. That is a song that must be sung in its entirety. I am so disappointed when the song leader says we will only sing the first, second and last verses. It's a crime I tell you!

Our minister mentioned that Florida's quarterback, Tim Tebow was sporting John 16:33 under his eyes during Saturday's game and during a press conference. How nice it is to hear something positive in the world of sports!

Blessings ya'll! Have a great week!

Sounds of the Season

2009-12-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

Last night we attended Hannah's Christmas strings concert. This is the second year that she has been in the program. We are thrilled that she is learning to read music, because that is a skill that she can carry into her adult life. We are proud of you Hannah! Your practice paid off!

Do you know the difference in the violin and the fiddle?
The violin has strings and the fiddle has strangs!

Ya'll have a blessed weekend!

A Gourdgeous Work of Art

2009-12-03T06:21:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite ornaments on our tree is one that was made by my husband's grandmother. She was a very talented artist in many ways. She was a painter and she also did a wood burning tecnique on gourds. This particular ornament was given to me by Mike the first Christmas that we were dating. I felt very honored to receive such a special gift. I love the intricate detail of the nativity scene that was carefully burned onto the small gourd. Mike's grandmother could take something so insignificant and create a beautiful piece of art. Just as the scene was burned onto the gourd we are to write God's word on our hearts. If we allow Him to work in us He will create a masterpiece.

It has become a tradition that each Christmas Grandma Flatness' ornament is the first to go on our tree. She passed away before I really got acquaited with her, but I feel I have come to know her through stories from those that loved her very much. She was a special lady. We are keeping her memory alive by thinking of her as we continue this tradition. Hannah looks forward to digging into the box each Christmas for that very special first ornament.

What special traditions does your family carry on?

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Hello....Is This Thing On?

2009-12-01T05:27:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if anyone is out there or if anyone cares what little me has to say, but I've done it! I have started myself a blog! I'm a tad nervous. It is kind of like basic public speaking class, only I'm not speaking, I'm typing. My palms are sweaty and I have a lump in my throat. I'll just do what I do when addressing a crowd. I'll invision you all in your underwear!

I love the phrase live, love, laugh. That is what I will be sharing with you, my life, things that I love and hopefully we will shares some laughs on our journey. Now, keep in mind that I have never claimed to be a literary genious. There will be misspelled words, punctuation and grammar errors. Also, I don't know how long this will last. I'm notorious for starting to write in journal books and then only filling a few pages. We'll see what happens. I'll do it as long as the thoughts and words will come to me. I look forward to opening up the pages of my lavish life with you. Now, go put some clothes on you look ridiculous sitting there in your undies!
Blessings ya'll!