Ok, something short. I wanted to thank you all for the nice comments and prayers that you all gave me over the loss of Melody. Your friendship means alot! She has been gone one week now, and it still hurts a little, but I am doing much better. On the bird front, I won't be getting one for quite a while. The process is too long involved to get into right now, but I will let you know when I get another one, and also its name.
I don't have the pictures uploaded on the computer yet, so I can't post them. The bananarama was great fun. I was on a team with Hannah, Christina and William L., and Shifty's (and Grace's) brother, Billy. Pastor Chris was our driver. We did have to measure some dumb things, like a person between 55 and 65's arm! That was embarrassing. Our team got back to the B.'s house last, but that didn't matter. While waiting on pizza, we played kickball. Girls against boys, and guess which side won?! The girls did!! That was exciting. After two innings, we enjoyed the aforesaid pizza and banana splits. It was a nice afternoon.
Church was great. We had a guest speaker, and I was not able to hear him in the morning service. I was upstairs working in the three to kindergartens' class. I love being up there, but this upcoming Sunday is my last for a month. Then Brianne will take over! Anyway, I did a puppet show, and that was heartily enjoyed by them, and me. Sunday evening had another finger food fellowship. (Baptists must love to eat!) I got to listen to Dean Loftus then, and his talk was very good. I always enjoy guests, but I always look forward to Pastor Jeff!
Nothing much else out of the ordinary is going on. We ate pumpkin shakes on Friday. I am not sure if I mentioned that before. Talk about a slice of pumpkin pie crammed in a glass. You should try it! Other than that, there is nothing exciting, except watching baseball. As I have said, my family is a baseball watching family, yet only in the playoffs. It has been great fun doing that as a family. Now, on a God-honoring blog, I am sure you don't want sports recaps. So I'll just say that the World Series is tied one ot one, and I hope the home team wins tonight. Yes, my family will be watching.
Well, I will stop for now. Sorry about the pics. I will try to get them up soon. Again, thanks for being there, all of you, when I needed some friends last week. The Lord was always there, but so were you, and I am really grateful. I am truly blessed by God to have the family I have and friends such as you! I don't deserve you, but I am thankful for you!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Friday, October 20, 2006
For my blogging audience, I wanted to say that I am alive and well! I have just been very busy. This isn't going to be a long post either, just enough to let you know that I have not skipped the blogging world. I intend to take the digital camera tomorrow to the BananaRama and post pictures afterwards. I think you will all enjoy that.
I have had a rough week this week. First off, my wonderful bird, Melody, died VERY unexpectedly on Tuesday. It was nothing I did; everyone has said that. The lady who I bought her from said that she believed it was something genetic. Melody was always skinny and wouldn't eat anything other than millet. (That is something she isn't supposed to do:-) Anyway, I found her after I got back from piano lessons, and that was not cool. I was in hysterics and blaming myself. However, Dad and I went to the Bird Barn, where we got her, and I will be getting another bird in about six weeks or so. I must admit, I am nervous, but I will just do what I did with Melody, and see what happens.
Next, I had a difficult time with some friends yesterday. One of the girls statred talking negatively about my church, and that bugged me. Fellowship Baptist Church is like my family, and I refuse to listen to my "family" be accused of being judgmental and things like that. I don't want to get into any more details, lest I become a gossip and a grudge holder. Needless to say, that made my week doubly hard. Yet, I was ok with the discussions we had. It made me really stand up for what I believe in, and situations such as these help shape me into the person I want to be. (That is: a girl who doesn't care what the world might think. As long as she remains true to Her God, her parents, and her conscience, that is what is important!)
However, I will be the first to admit that the Lord upheld me and kept me going through it all. All through Melody's death, and the group problems, I felt my God right by me. I saw His hand and His comfort. How faithful He is!!!! He enabled me to not get angry or lose my cool in any of the situations. I was able to turn it all over to Him, and He took care of the rest. I was just listening to Josh Groban sing "You Raise Me Up," and I listened to the words. The Lord raised me to walk on the stormy seas and I am stong when I am on His shoulder. His grace has been sufficient for me this week. How I praise Him for that! I hope it has been for you!
The week hasn't been all bad. We have had alot of family fun watching baseball. Cardinals did win the NLCS, and you should have seen me last night. I was into the game, so much so that I was talking to the tv. I do that alot. For the record, though, I am an Astros fan, but the Red Birds are ok.:-) How I have enjoyed the memory making with my family! They last forever!
Well, that's it for me for the next day or so. You have had a glimpse of my ups and downs this week. I hope you have had more ups than downs, but if not, I hope you were able to see the Lord give you the strength to meet what comes at you, and be able to pass it with His enablement. It is in these situations that, when we get to Heaven, we may hear God say, "Well done, my Good and Faithful Servant!" I can look back and see that the Lord gave me the strength I talked about; I pray you could say the same. I wasn't perfect, but by His grace, I succeeded! Have a great weekend, and I will post soon...
I have had a rough week this week. First off, my wonderful bird, Melody, died VERY unexpectedly on Tuesday. It was nothing I did; everyone has said that. The lady who I bought her from said that she believed it was something genetic. Melody was always skinny and wouldn't eat anything other than millet. (That is something she isn't supposed to do:-) Anyway, I found her after I got back from piano lessons, and that was not cool. I was in hysterics and blaming myself. However, Dad and I went to the Bird Barn, where we got her, and I will be getting another bird in about six weeks or so. I must admit, I am nervous, but I will just do what I did with Melody, and see what happens.
Next, I had a difficult time with some friends yesterday. One of the girls statred talking negatively about my church, and that bugged me. Fellowship Baptist Church is like my family, and I refuse to listen to my "family" be accused of being judgmental and things like that. I don't want to get into any more details, lest I become a gossip and a grudge holder. Needless to say, that made my week doubly hard. Yet, I was ok with the discussions we had. It made me really stand up for what I believe in, and situations such as these help shape me into the person I want to be. (That is: a girl who doesn't care what the world might think. As long as she remains true to Her God, her parents, and her conscience, that is what is important!)
However, I will be the first to admit that the Lord upheld me and kept me going through it all. All through Melody's death, and the group problems, I felt my God right by me. I saw His hand and His comfort. How faithful He is!!!! He enabled me to not get angry or lose my cool in any of the situations. I was able to turn it all over to Him, and He took care of the rest. I was just listening to Josh Groban sing "You Raise Me Up," and I listened to the words. The Lord raised me to walk on the stormy seas and I am stong when I am on His shoulder. His grace has been sufficient for me this week. How I praise Him for that! I hope it has been for you!
The week hasn't been all bad. We have had alot of family fun watching baseball. Cardinals did win the NLCS, and you should have seen me last night. I was into the game, so much so that I was talking to the tv. I do that alot. For the record, though, I am an Astros fan, but the Red Birds are ok.:-) How I have enjoyed the memory making with my family! They last forever!
Well, that's it for me for the next day or so. You have had a glimpse of my ups and downs this week. I hope you have had more ups than downs, but if not, I hope you were able to see the Lord give you the strength to meet what comes at you, and be able to pass it with His enablement. It is in these situations that, when we get to Heaven, we may hear God say, "Well done, my Good and Faithful Servant!" I can look back and see that the Lord gave me the strength I talked about; I pray you could say the same. I wasn't perfect, but by His grace, I succeeded! Have a great weekend, and I will post soon...
Friday, October 13, 2006
"Starbucks" Cranberry Bliss Bars
For the cake: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 3 eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 1 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups flour; 3/4 cup dried cranberries, diced;
6 ounces white chocolate, cut into chucks (or chips)
Frosting: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 4 teaspoon lemon juice;
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Drizzled icing: 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk; 2 teaspoons butter
Topping: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, diced
1. Preheat the oven to 350
2. Make cake by beating butter and brown sugar together with mixer until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, ginger, and salt. Beat well. Mix in flour until smooth. Mix 3/4 cup diced dried cranberries and white chocolate into the batter by hand. Pour batter into greased 13x9 baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly. (Do not fear if the dough is thick and not more liquid like. It will be fine.) Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until cake is golden brown around the edges. Allow cake to cool.
3. Make frosting by combining softened cream cheese, 3 cups powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. When the cake has cooled, use a spatula to spread the frosting.
4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup cranberries over the frosting
5. Whisk together 1/2 powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and butter until smooth. Drizzle icing over the cranberries in a sweeping motion.
6. Allow cake to sit for several hours, then slice the cake length-wise once through the middle. Slice the cake across the width three times, making a total of 8 rectangular slices. Slice each of those 8 slices once diagonally, created 16 triangular slices.
(Note- It doesn't say to put the bars in the fridge, but I did. You keep cream cheese in the fridge, don't you?)
It's Friday, can anyone believe that? I certainly can't. The week has just sped by! It has been a good week though! Let's see...What to say about it?
First, an update on "Wolfie," as my teacher and I have dubbed Mozart. Actually, he has gone pretty well this past week The real test will be next Tuesday; that's when I find out how I am doing:-) I wish I could somehow find an audio link to put on here; that way, you can hear what it is supposed to sound like. I will tell you that it is Sonata in C. Easy key, but not an easy piece!
The Cranberry Bliss Bars were really good! I will have to post the recipe. Maybe I will do that after I am done posting. Anyway, I have to give the recipe to Mrs. E.; she loved them. I was pleased with how they turned out. I hope you would be too.
School is progressing very well too. I am always busy, but at least, I can't be accused of being lazy and doing the bare minimum. I finished Uncle Tom's Cabin, and it was a fabulous book. Now I am reading Harriet Beecher and the Beecher Preachers. It isn't so good. For one thing, it is on the boring side, and second, Harriet is portrayed in this as a discontent woman who wasn't pleased being a wife and mother, even though she knew it to be the best calling. Also, she seems on the feminist side, and that I definitely don't like. Oh, well. I have Across Five Aprils to look forward to next.
The Ronald Reagan report is taking up all of my free reading time. I don't know if you all have ever done this, but it isn't very enjoyable to read a book, knowing that you have to keep your eye open for notes. I much prefer reading a book and getting absolutely engrossed in the characters. I hope I don't appear to be a complainer, for I am really enjoying learning about our foreith president. I am trying to find a copy of his funeral. I was unable to watch it for some reason, but I think it would be good for my report.
This week, I uncovered my notebook that has my 70 page story, and growing, in it. I love writing in it. I get to make up characters the way I want them to be. It is a rather sad story, but it is God honoring. It is about a girl who is homeschooled and lives in a big family. And the book goes through the trials the family faces and how they rely on God and each other to see them through. Sounds odd, doesn't it? Yet, I love it!!! Right now, the girl's brother has proposed to his "girl" right before he leaves to go to Iraq. I know that when I write the good-bye scene, I will bawl, or at least get teary-eyed. I want to encourage you all to try writing your own story. No, mine might never get published, as much as that would be cool. However, it brings enjoyment, and it really stretches your mind and creativity. You explore things you never could imagine!
Tonight, Mom and I are going to the Boise Philharmonic. Unfortunately, there is a guest conductor, and it's a woman! I don't like that idea. I think we are going to the concert earlier than usual to hear some background on the pieces, but I am not sure about that. This week, it is a "You Picked It" Concert. Season ticket holders got to pick some out of a whole bunch of choices. I know Swan Lake is one of them! I will have to let you all know how it was.
Tomorrow, we are probably going to rake leaves and then go to Brianne's house. On the weather, it is absolutely beautiful. (I think my friend, Alice, is experiencing winter right now!) Anyway, I am enjoying all the leaves and the cooler temps. It is wonderful!
Well, I must clean a bathroom and then change for the concert. I am also partailly watching baseball:-0 Surprising, isn't it? Hope you all have a great week. (Oh, please no more comments about being dead and stuff like that. I don't think that is a very God-honoring topic. Sorry Shifty!)
First, an update on "Wolfie," as my teacher and I have dubbed Mozart. Actually, he has gone pretty well this past week The real test will be next Tuesday; that's when I find out how I am doing:-) I wish I could somehow find an audio link to put on here; that way, you can hear what it is supposed to sound like. I will tell you that it is Sonata in C. Easy key, but not an easy piece!
The Cranberry Bliss Bars were really good! I will have to post the recipe. Maybe I will do that after I am done posting. Anyway, I have to give the recipe to Mrs. E.; she loved them. I was pleased with how they turned out. I hope you would be too.
School is progressing very well too. I am always busy, but at least, I can't be accused of being lazy and doing the bare minimum. I finished Uncle Tom's Cabin, and it was a fabulous book. Now I am reading Harriet Beecher and the Beecher Preachers. It isn't so good. For one thing, it is on the boring side, and second, Harriet is portrayed in this as a discontent woman who wasn't pleased being a wife and mother, even though she knew it to be the best calling. Also, she seems on the feminist side, and that I definitely don't like. Oh, well. I have Across Five Aprils to look forward to next.
The Ronald Reagan report is taking up all of my free reading time. I don't know if you all have ever done this, but it isn't very enjoyable to read a book, knowing that you have to keep your eye open for notes. I much prefer reading a book and getting absolutely engrossed in the characters. I hope I don't appear to be a complainer, for I am really enjoying learning about our foreith president. I am trying to find a copy of his funeral. I was unable to watch it for some reason, but I think it would be good for my report.
This week, I uncovered my notebook that has my 70 page story, and growing, in it. I love writing in it. I get to make up characters the way I want them to be. It is a rather sad story, but it is God honoring. It is about a girl who is homeschooled and lives in a big family. And the book goes through the trials the family faces and how they rely on God and each other to see them through. Sounds odd, doesn't it? Yet, I love it!!! Right now, the girl's brother has proposed to his "girl" right before he leaves to go to Iraq. I know that when I write the good-bye scene, I will bawl, or at least get teary-eyed. I want to encourage you all to try writing your own story. No, mine might never get published, as much as that would be cool. However, it brings enjoyment, and it really stretches your mind and creativity. You explore things you never could imagine!
Tonight, Mom and I are going to the Boise Philharmonic. Unfortunately, there is a guest conductor, and it's a woman! I don't like that idea. I think we are going to the concert earlier than usual to hear some background on the pieces, but I am not sure about that. This week, it is a "You Picked It" Concert. Season ticket holders got to pick some out of a whole bunch of choices. I know Swan Lake is one of them! I will have to let you all know how it was.
Tomorrow, we are probably going to rake leaves and then go to Brianne's house. On the weather, it is absolutely beautiful. (I think my friend, Alice, is experiencing winter right now!) Anyway, I am enjoying all the leaves and the cooler temps. It is wonderful!
Well, I must clean a bathroom and then change for the concert. I am also partailly watching baseball:-0 Surprising, isn't it? Hope you all have a great week. (Oh, please no more comments about being dead and stuff like that. I don't think that is a very God-honoring topic. Sorry Shifty!)
Monday, October 09, 2006
Let's see.. Bible time, check. Piano practice, check. School, check. Dusting, check. Fold laundry, check. Exercise, check. Make some sort of treat, waiting on an ingredient that Dad is buying at the store. Blogging... uh, check! :-)
Well, that's been my day so far. For those of you who care to know, I spent my entire practice time trying to figure out my original composition. I would really appreciate your prayers on this. I am about to go crazy, or maybe I already have! I am thinking the Irish Jig idea is going to be scrapped, and instead, I am going to do something about Springtime. Who is to say yet!
Again, I am loving my school books, except I have gotten to a rather depressing part in Uncle Tom's Cabin. However, I am enjoying it despite this. My Ronald Reagan report is in the note taking stage. I don't have any idea when that will be finished! Yet I am so glad that I chose to do it about him. He's truly an amazing guy, yet I have said that before:-)
I am waiting to make these cranberry bliss bars when Dad gets home. I have a cookbook that are "top secret recipes" from like restaurants, fast food chains, and things like that. (No, it's not the exact recipe, but almost.) These bars are from Starbucks. I have never personally had them, but the recipe sounds really good. It also is pretty fattening, or maybe the word I want is rich. Anyway, I am waiting on some white chocolate that goes in the batter. I plan on taking these to the Ladies' Fellowship tomorrow night, so I have to bake them this evening.
I am sure you all want to hear about my weekend. Saturday was wonderful. We went to the tearoom, and stayed there for over three hours with Grace and Mrs. D. It was a really nice time of fellowship and food. Then, Mom and I made cards, or rather she did. I couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. I wanted to do a different type of card, instead of the ones I usually do, but nothing was coming to me. I did finish one before Mom and I went to watch Wives and Daughters.
Ok, about that.... I LOVED it. It was a great movie. (Thanks to Melinda for loaning it to me!) It is long, 5 hours, but you get really into the story line. It is entirely decent, and I believe there is only one low cut dress. The realationship between Molly and her dad is great, and Molly's attitude throughout the whole movie is fantastic. I did cry at the end of tape two, though I won't say why. I will tell you that I was on tinterhooks until the final credits. I was hitting the couch and talking to the tv screen, I was so into it. Those who have seen it probably understand my meaning. Anyway, it was good, and I do intend to buy it. It's one of those that you want when the guys are gone on an eighteen hour fishing excursion, as they were this time. However, if I get the movie before or after Christmas remains to be seen:-)
Yesterday was church. I was up with the kids, and I enjoyed it. We did stay down for part of the service but then we went up and traced the kids' hands and feet and talked about how we can use these to serve the Lord. It was great fun. After church, Garrity went to the B's house while Mom, Dad, and I went to Golden Corral with Pastor Jeff and his family, as well as Hannah and her family. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and stayed there until 4:30. Then, we came home for a half hour to take care of Nikki, and then headed back to church. It seems like a crazy day, but it was a great day.
Well, I had better see if I need to help with dinner. It is dreary out here right now. I am wearing a scarf that I made around the house. No, I am not cold; I just like it. However, I did have a beam of sunshine today. I saw the Lord answer a prayer that I had prayed that morning. Isn't the Lord wonderful! I know I can say that today; I hope you can too. Even if not in a form of answer prayer, look and see; you will discover that He IS wonderful, regardless of what things appear like!
Well, that's been my day so far. For those of you who care to know, I spent my entire practice time trying to figure out my original composition. I would really appreciate your prayers on this. I am about to go crazy, or maybe I already have! I am thinking the Irish Jig idea is going to be scrapped, and instead, I am going to do something about Springtime. Who is to say yet!
Again, I am loving my school books, except I have gotten to a rather depressing part in Uncle Tom's Cabin. However, I am enjoying it despite this. My Ronald Reagan report is in the note taking stage. I don't have any idea when that will be finished! Yet I am so glad that I chose to do it about him. He's truly an amazing guy, yet I have said that before:-)
I am waiting to make these cranberry bliss bars when Dad gets home. I have a cookbook that are "top secret recipes" from like restaurants, fast food chains, and things like that. (No, it's not the exact recipe, but almost.) These bars are from Starbucks. I have never personally had them, but the recipe sounds really good. It also is pretty fattening, or maybe the word I want is rich. Anyway, I am waiting on some white chocolate that goes in the batter. I plan on taking these to the Ladies' Fellowship tomorrow night, so I have to bake them this evening.
I am sure you all want to hear about my weekend. Saturday was wonderful. We went to the tearoom, and stayed there for over three hours with Grace and Mrs. D. It was a really nice time of fellowship and food. Then, Mom and I made cards, or rather she did. I couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. I wanted to do a different type of card, instead of the ones I usually do, but nothing was coming to me. I did finish one before Mom and I went to watch Wives and Daughters.
Ok, about that.... I LOVED it. It was a great movie. (Thanks to Melinda for loaning it to me!) It is long, 5 hours, but you get really into the story line. It is entirely decent, and I believe there is only one low cut dress. The realationship between Molly and her dad is great, and Molly's attitude throughout the whole movie is fantastic. I did cry at the end of tape two, though I won't say why. I will tell you that I was on tinterhooks until the final credits. I was hitting the couch and talking to the tv screen, I was so into it. Those who have seen it probably understand my meaning. Anyway, it was good, and I do intend to buy it. It's one of those that you want when the guys are gone on an eighteen hour fishing excursion, as they were this time. However, if I get the movie before or after Christmas remains to be seen:-)
Yesterday was church. I was up with the kids, and I enjoyed it. We did stay down for part of the service but then we went up and traced the kids' hands and feet and talked about how we can use these to serve the Lord. It was great fun. After church, Garrity went to the B's house while Mom, Dad, and I went to Golden Corral with Pastor Jeff and his family, as well as Hannah and her family. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and stayed there until 4:30. Then, we came home for a half hour to take care of Nikki, and then headed back to church. It seems like a crazy day, but it was a great day.
Well, I had better see if I need to help with dinner. It is dreary out here right now. I am wearing a scarf that I made around the house. No, I am not cold; I just like it. However, I did have a beam of sunshine today. I saw the Lord answer a prayer that I had prayed that morning. Isn't the Lord wonderful! I know I can say that today; I hope you can too. Even if not in a form of answer prayer, look and see; you will discover that He IS wonderful, regardless of what things appear like!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
I have a brief few minutes, so I figured I would update you all on my life this week. It has been great, and not too crazy!!! Anyway..
Tuesday was piano lessons. They went fine, but I must admit, I am at a block with some of the pieces. First off, I don't like Mozart. I know I have said that repeatedly, but it's the truth!! I am trying to have a positive attitude about the guy, but it is just so hard!! Then, I am still in the midst of composer's block on my original composition. I wanted it to be an Irish Jig, but that's not happening. My few notes sound more like an Arabic terrorist group or something! It is nutty. Oh, how I wish I could get these things figured out! The Lord needs to grant me patience, both with the pieces, and with myself.
Yesterday, we went to the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert. We got there early like Dad wanted, but we wound up in the middle section of the center. But, I could see!!! We wound up sitting with the Dy's, so that was fun. The music was incredible. (I say I don't like them, as a father/daughter joke, but I am really kidding.) Oh, the lyrics were amazing. I nearly got teary-eyed several times, and I am not sure why. The music was just getting to me. They played my Dad's favorite (but not the one you said, Alice.) They played two songs off of their new cd, and I just love the song, Your Name. Talk about a song with a message. But I liked this other one that went, "Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, that you love me." It was just a cool song, because it is sooo true. How the Lord loves me inspite of myself and grants me grace and mercy every day I can hardly fathom!
We did discipleship tonight, and the subject was on modesty. Oh, that is such an important subject, but one that is not really practiced anymore. We really talked about how modesty is a law by God and it prevents guys from stumbling. That is why I do it. Yes, I do it for Garrity, but I do it for the guys at church too. I just wish there were more people that did things my way. (Actually, it's God's way.) I pray that never will I, even accidentally, do anything that leads a fellow brother, or any guy, down a path of destruction.
Ok, Mom and I have figured out our plan for Saturday. We are making cards, like I said, and we are going to the tearoom. But we decided to go with Grace and Mrs. D. They have never been before, and I bet they will enjoy it. (Though it isn't the Ritz or anything:-) Then, Mom and I are going to watch the new Pride and Prejudice and Wives and Daughters. I have heard the latter is really good. I have seen the former once, and I tried very hard not to compare it with the long six hour one. I don't know how good I did. The scenery and music in the new one is breathtaking! Yet, it left out alot of the book, but it's to be expected with a two hour thing. Something has got to go!
Oh, I don't remember if I said that I decided to do Ronald Reagan for my research paper. Well, I finished one book today, and I wound up with six pages of notes and four pages of quotes. I still have either four or five books left to do!! I have come to determine that he was an amazing and godly president. If only we had about four presidents, each with two terms, that were just like him, our country wouldn't be so far gone today!
Well, I must close. So, there's a brief update. Have a swell weekend, and God Bless!!!
Tuesday was piano lessons. They went fine, but I must admit, I am at a block with some of the pieces. First off, I don't like Mozart. I know I have said that repeatedly, but it's the truth!! I am trying to have a positive attitude about the guy, but it is just so hard!! Then, I am still in the midst of composer's block on my original composition. I wanted it to be an Irish Jig, but that's not happening. My few notes sound more like an Arabic terrorist group or something! It is nutty. Oh, how I wish I could get these things figured out! The Lord needs to grant me patience, both with the pieces, and with myself.
Yesterday, we went to the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert. We got there early like Dad wanted, but we wound up in the middle section of the center. But, I could see!!! We wound up sitting with the Dy's, so that was fun. The music was incredible. (I say I don't like them, as a father/daughter joke, but I am really kidding.) Oh, the lyrics were amazing. I nearly got teary-eyed several times, and I am not sure why. The music was just getting to me. They played my Dad's favorite (but not the one you said, Alice.) They played two songs off of their new cd, and I just love the song, Your Name. Talk about a song with a message. But I liked this other one that went, "Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, that you love me." It was just a cool song, because it is sooo true. How the Lord loves me inspite of myself and grants me grace and mercy every day I can hardly fathom!
We did discipleship tonight, and the subject was on modesty. Oh, that is such an important subject, but one that is not really practiced anymore. We really talked about how modesty is a law by God and it prevents guys from stumbling. That is why I do it. Yes, I do it for Garrity, but I do it for the guys at church too. I just wish there were more people that did things my way. (Actually, it's God's way.) I pray that never will I, even accidentally, do anything that leads a fellow brother, or any guy, down a path of destruction.
Ok, Mom and I have figured out our plan for Saturday. We are making cards, like I said, and we are going to the tearoom. But we decided to go with Grace and Mrs. D. They have never been before, and I bet they will enjoy it. (Though it isn't the Ritz or anything:-) Then, Mom and I are going to watch the new Pride and Prejudice and Wives and Daughters. I have heard the latter is really good. I have seen the former once, and I tried very hard not to compare it with the long six hour one. I don't know how good I did. The scenery and music in the new one is breathtaking! Yet, it left out alot of the book, but it's to be expected with a two hour thing. Something has got to go!
Oh, I don't remember if I said that I decided to do Ronald Reagan for my research paper. Well, I finished one book today, and I wound up with six pages of notes and four pages of quotes. I still have either four or five books left to do!! I have come to determine that he was an amazing and godly president. If only we had about four presidents, each with two terms, that were just like him, our country wouldn't be so far gone today!
Well, I must close. So, there's a brief update. Have a swell weekend, and God Bless!!!
Monday, October 02, 2006
Happy October everybody! I hope you are enjoying the season of autumn, though I bet it is being spent at the books. I know mine is! School is going well; I am enjoying all of my subjects, except science. I really don't like that! Yet, it is required, so I have to deal with it:-) However, if I could get off, and instead do more literature or history, I would in a heartbeat!
My week last week was very good. Friday was the ladies thing. I enjoyed myself immensely. Hannah did not show up ,but Grace, Brianne, and Melinda did, among others. I ate far too much junk food (but it was good:-) Afterwards, most people talked, but I made a decorative candle. It was easy; just nakpins cut out and rubbed on the wax with a HOT curling iron. I got a tiny bit of wax on me, the neck to be precise. No, I didn't sick the curling iron up there; it was just so hot, the wax splattered. Thankfully, it was hardly anything, and I didn't cry out. Mom and I left around 10:30. I think those who weren't staying overnight left around then too. We got home and discovered that the guys at our house at almost all of the cookies I had made!! (I had doubled the chocolate chips and did a batch of oatmeal raisin!) I believe they liked them though.
Saturday was pictures. I am sorry I don't have any to post on here yet, but if I can, I will eventually. Anyway, they turned out great. We went to various places in the Meridian area, a barn, pond, and along the river. Yes, I said a barn, and actually, we did buy some of them. Our family picture is along the Boise River in Eagle. I liked it the best. Oh, if I didn't say before, Mom and I wore red, and Dad and Garrett wore hunter green. It looked really nice!
Yesterday was church; need I say more? It was great. We did sing, and it was to the Lord's glory. The majority of us wore pink or red, and that wasn't even planned. We girls all got a kick out of that! I wasn't overly nervous until offering, then it hit me. My legs felt like jelly and lead, if that is even possible. I just prayed, and then got started. I think we did very well. I tried to keep pitch with Grace; hopefully, it worked! yet most of all, I hope the congregation saw the Lord high and lifted up in our song. Truly, we are Redeemed, and I want to proclaim it. I am his child forever!!! Otherwise, church was great besides. We stayed a tiny bit later than school normal last night. I just talked with the girls and had a great time of fellowship with my fellow believers.
This week is a busy one, yet again, it's with my family. Tomorrow is piano and Dy's. Wednesday is the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert. (They are my dad's favorite, and he sooo wants to go!) Friday is Andrew Dy's birthday, so the whole family is going over for cake and fun. Saturday, Garrett and Dad are going fishing all day with Mr. R., so Mom and I are having girl time. That means making cards, going to the tea room, possibly with a friend, and watching a girly movie. I think it will be Wives and Daughter and my new Pride and Prejudice. Sounds fun!!!!!
Well, I must dust, and help get dinner prepared. I hope you are all blessed by the Lord, and that I am thankful for each of you and your friendship!!! May you see Him in amazing ways these next few days! To God be the Glory, great things He hath done!!!!! For He is good, and His love endures forever!
My week last week was very good. Friday was the ladies thing. I enjoyed myself immensely. Hannah did not show up ,but Grace, Brianne, and Melinda did, among others. I ate far too much junk food (but it was good:-) Afterwards, most people talked, but I made a decorative candle. It was easy; just nakpins cut out and rubbed on the wax with a HOT curling iron. I got a tiny bit of wax on me, the neck to be precise. No, I didn't sick the curling iron up there; it was just so hot, the wax splattered. Thankfully, it was hardly anything, and I didn't cry out. Mom and I left around 10:30. I think those who weren't staying overnight left around then too. We got home and discovered that the guys at our house at almost all of the cookies I had made!! (I had doubled the chocolate chips and did a batch of oatmeal raisin!) I believe they liked them though.
Saturday was pictures. I am sorry I don't have any to post on here yet, but if I can, I will eventually. Anyway, they turned out great. We went to various places in the Meridian area, a barn, pond, and along the river. Yes, I said a barn, and actually, we did buy some of them. Our family picture is along the Boise River in Eagle. I liked it the best. Oh, if I didn't say before, Mom and I wore red, and Dad and Garrett wore hunter green. It looked really nice!
Yesterday was church; need I say more? It was great. We did sing, and it was to the Lord's glory. The majority of us wore pink or red, and that wasn't even planned. We girls all got a kick out of that! I wasn't overly nervous until offering, then it hit me. My legs felt like jelly and lead, if that is even possible. I just prayed, and then got started. I think we did very well. I tried to keep pitch with Grace; hopefully, it worked! yet most of all, I hope the congregation saw the Lord high and lifted up in our song. Truly, we are Redeemed, and I want to proclaim it. I am his child forever!!! Otherwise, church was great besides. We stayed a tiny bit later than school normal last night. I just talked with the girls and had a great time of fellowship with my fellow believers.
This week is a busy one, yet again, it's with my family. Tomorrow is piano and Dy's. Wednesday is the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert. (They are my dad's favorite, and he sooo wants to go!) Friday is Andrew Dy's birthday, so the whole family is going over for cake and fun. Saturday, Garrett and Dad are going fishing all day with Mr. R., so Mom and I are having girl time. That means making cards, going to the tea room, possibly with a friend, and watching a girly movie. I think it will be Wives and Daughter and my new Pride and Prejudice. Sounds fun!!!!!
Well, I must dust, and help get dinner prepared. I hope you are all blessed by the Lord, and that I am thankful for each of you and your friendship!!! May you see Him in amazing ways these next few days! To God be the Glory, great things He hath done!!!!! For He is good, and His love endures forever!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Oh, it is such a beautiful autumn day here!!! I wish I had pictures to post of the beautiful downtown scenery, but we left the camera at home, by accident. I will try my utmost to take some next time. The Lord has created a magnificent world, hasn't he? I do believe that spring and fall are when he really when he gets his paintbrush out!
Today, of course, was piano. It was great, though I don't overly like one of the pieces. Actually, it is more like an exercise. I know the Lord has given it to me, so that I can practice patience and learn to get past out of my comfort zone. It still is extremely difficult! Oh well, nothing was supposed to be easy about the Christian walk. Now, I am not complaining; I wouldn't exchange my life or my faith for anything. I just wish I had this "wonderful" piece by Hanon over and done with:-)
I got a hair trim today. See, we are going to get family pictures taken by a friend on Saturday for Christmas presents, and I wanted my hair to look nice. Perhaps that is vain, I don't know, but I also don't see a problem with wanting to look nice. Anyway, I will have to style it myself tomorrow; the lady didn't do that. I will tell you all about the picture taking after Saturday (Obviously) I also will tell you what colors we decided to wear!
This weekend is going to be crazy. Friday, Mom and I are going to a ladies' thing at church, while Dad and Garrity have some of the church guys over at our house. Both things will have junk food and fun, a winning combination. Saturday is pictures, and then Sunday, I sing with the girls' ensemble. Yikes!!!! Please be praying for me! I am not exactly nervous, but I don't like being the center of attention, either. Plus, I wish we had had one more practice. Nothing I can do about it though. Hopefull, everyone will be there; the cold / sore throat thing is going around our church.
Next week, I know I will be busy too. But I want you all to know that the majority is doing stuff with my family. Titus 2 tells women to be keepers at home, and I do stay home a lot. I don't drive, so that is one of the things that prevents me, but I don't have the desire to run myself ragged. I am perfectly content with the few things that I do. I much perfer spending quality time with my wonderful family that I have been richly blessed me with. Too many people don't realize their family is a blessing until it is too late. May the Lord always protect me from ever thinking that!
Today, of course, was piano. It was great, though I don't overly like one of the pieces. Actually, it is more like an exercise. I know the Lord has given it to me, so that I can practice patience and learn to get past out of my comfort zone. It still is extremely difficult! Oh well, nothing was supposed to be easy about the Christian walk. Now, I am not complaining; I wouldn't exchange my life or my faith for anything. I just wish I had this "wonderful" piece by Hanon over and done with:-)
I got a hair trim today. See, we are going to get family pictures taken by a friend on Saturday for Christmas presents, and I wanted my hair to look nice. Perhaps that is vain, I don't know, but I also don't see a problem with wanting to look nice. Anyway, I will have to style it myself tomorrow; the lady didn't do that. I will tell you all about the picture taking after Saturday (Obviously) I also will tell you what colors we decided to wear!
This weekend is going to be crazy. Friday, Mom and I are going to a ladies' thing at church, while Dad and Garrity have some of the church guys over at our house. Both things will have junk food and fun, a winning combination. Saturday is pictures, and then Sunday, I sing with the girls' ensemble. Yikes!!!! Please be praying for me! I am not exactly nervous, but I don't like being the center of attention, either. Plus, I wish we had had one more practice. Nothing I can do about it though. Hopefull, everyone will be there; the cold / sore throat thing is going around our church.
Next week, I know I will be busy too. But I want you all to know that the majority is doing stuff with my family. Titus 2 tells women to be keepers at home, and I do stay home a lot. I don't drive, so that is one of the things that prevents me, but I don't have the desire to run myself ragged. I am perfectly content with the few things that I do. I much perfer spending quality time with my wonderful family that I have been richly blessed me with. Too many people don't realize their family is a blessing until it is too late. May the Lord always protect me from ever thinking that!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
I just posted yesterday, but I do have a few minutes to write. Last night, Mom and I went to the Philharmonic, and it was lovely. The condutor was back ,and he looked totally recovered from his stroke, which was an answer to prayer. (now if he could just stay permanently:-) The guest soloist played on the piano, and WOW! I wish I had been able to see her fingers fly up and down the keys. She did move a considerably amount (rocking, swaying, etc.) Mom says for me not to do that. I really try, but I do somewhat, yet Beethoven did as well.
Listening to music made me thankful that the Lord has enabled me to play the piano. Yet, I don't think I have any aspirations to play professionally. My ultimate goal is to fulfill 1 Peter 4:11. I play for the glory of God, and that alone. I fear that if I did become very good, I would lose sight of that.
We went to Mission Aviation Fellowship this morning. Some people did amazing speeches, even our mayor. God was truly present, I will tell you that. It made me realize that if presidents would talk like that, perhaps our country would not be so far off.
Mom and Dad are messing around in the kitchen. Garrity just got off the telephone, and I am going to work on my cross-stitch while I watch golf. On that, I have come to the conclusion that teamwork is a key recipe for success. Watching the world, the pairs are laughing and joking. You don't see it as much in the Americans. Maybe it's because of egos, I don't know, but really, if they would learn from their competition, I totally believe they would win these matches. Pride does not get rewarded you know!
Listening to music made me thankful that the Lord has enabled me to play the piano. Yet, I don't think I have any aspirations to play professionally. My ultimate goal is to fulfill 1 Peter 4:11. I play for the glory of God, and that alone. I fear that if I did become very good, I would lose sight of that.
We went to Mission Aviation Fellowship this morning. Some people did amazing speeches, even our mayor. God was truly present, I will tell you that. It made me realize that if presidents would talk like that, perhaps our country would not be so far off.
Mom and Dad are messing around in the kitchen. Garrity just got off the telephone, and I am going to work on my cross-stitch while I watch golf. On that, I have come to the conclusion that teamwork is a key recipe for success. Watching the world, the pairs are laughing and joking. You don't see it as much in the Americans. Maybe it's because of egos, I don't know, but really, if they would learn from their competition, I totally believe they would win these matches. Pride does not get rewarded you know!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Well, I am posting today... finally. I have wanted to, but the computer situation has been crazy!!! I think you were all able to gather that! I am sooo glad that Dad was able to do it!! Many thanks to him for sticking with it and getting it done! So, now I am able to post once more on here.
By the pictures below, you can tell that we had a great time with the Dy's. Oh, we enjoyed their company immensely. The little girls were so excited when they got to hold my bird. Yet, their attention span was minimal, at best. However, they played with my dolls, and that was fun. I don't play with them much anymore, but I do enjoy changing their outfits and doing their hair. (for the record, I don't think that is anything to be ashamed of. You are who you are, and you can be a kid for as long as God wants you to be. Too many people try to act older too quickly.)
School has been progressing very well. I am loving my books for English and History. For those who haven't read Uncle Tom's Cabin, you ought to. It is a really good book, and the portrayal of loving when others despitfully use you is amazing. One we could definitely learn from. Pride and Prejudice is overall good. I am picturing characters from the six hour length one as I read it. Rather amusing.
I did have a surprise in the mail today. My granparents sent me the new Pride and Prejudice. I was surprised, for I had never talked about it; I haven't even seen it. Still, I was really excited. While I want to own the other one, I don't object to owning them both. :-) I did check on my movie review link, just to double check that it was decent, and it was. So...
Well, I had better finish up. This was just a short thing to let you all know that I am alive. I think tomorrow we might go to the opening of Mission Aviation Fellowship, or deal with fruit. I will know by tomorrow. Tonight, Mom and I go to the Boise Philharmonic (an orchestra) I am excited for that as well. I hope the normal conductor is there; he suffered a storke last season, and he will be leaving by next season. Bummer!! He was the best! There will be difficult shoes for another conductor to fill!
By the pictures below, you can tell that we had a great time with the Dy's. Oh, we enjoyed their company immensely. The little girls were so excited when they got to hold my bird. Yet, their attention span was minimal, at best. However, they played with my dolls, and that was fun. I don't play with them much anymore, but I do enjoy changing their outfits and doing their hair. (for the record, I don't think that is anything to be ashamed of. You are who you are, and you can be a kid for as long as God wants you to be. Too many people try to act older too quickly.)
School has been progressing very well. I am loving my books for English and History. For those who haven't read Uncle Tom's Cabin, you ought to. It is a really good book, and the portrayal of loving when others despitfully use you is amazing. One we could definitely learn from. Pride and Prejudice is overall good. I am picturing characters from the six hour length one as I read it. Rather amusing.
I did have a surprise in the mail today. My granparents sent me the new Pride and Prejudice. I was surprised, for I had never talked about it; I haven't even seen it. Still, I was really excited. While I want to own the other one, I don't object to owning them both. :-) I did check on my movie review link, just to double check that it was decent, and it was. So...
Well, I had better finish up. This was just a short thing to let you all know that I am alive. I think tomorrow we might go to the opening of Mission Aviation Fellowship, or deal with fruit. I will know by tomorrow. Tonight, Mom and I go to the Boise Philharmonic (an orchestra) I am excited for that as well. I hope the normal conductor is there; he suffered a storke last season, and he will be leaving by next season. Bummer!! He was the best! There will be difficult shoes for another conductor to fill!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Ok, I had to delete a post in order to get my sidebar back up, and it didn't work!! It is driving me crazy!!! I am not sure what to do anymore!!!! Oh well! At least, I still have a blog, and it works, and it will eventually get back to normal. Until then, there is nothing I can do.
Anyway, hope you are all doing well, and I will actually post soon!!
Anyway, hope you are all doing well, and I will actually post soon!!
Monday, September 18, 2006
Hi ya'll! It's Monday, and back to the old grind stone: school! It did go well today; I will assure you of that. I didn't get done until 4 o'clock, but that's to be expected. Yesterday was Sunday, arguably the best day of the week. I got to spend the entire day with Brianne! That was fun. (She came over to my house this time!) We went out to lunch, got her get up on a blog, and then played Life while listening to Celtic Woman. It was an enjoyable afternoon. Then, we went back to evening service for a baptism, and afterwards she and I walked a ton! Yet, we talked, and I am continually amazed at how the Lord has rewarded my effort in that area! He did above what I ever expected!
Now, the main reason for my post! I want to post three different recipes that I have been talking about before. So, here they are!
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The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies!
1 cup salad oil
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour.
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
12 oz. chocolate chips
Mix first five ingredients with mixer. Mix in next three and fold in chips. Drop on greased cookie sheets and bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes.
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Cinnamon-Pecan Icebox Cookies
1 cup butter- softened
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg .
1 tsp. vanilla .
2 1/4 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp.
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Beat butter at medium speed until creamy, gradually add 3/4 cup sugar and brown sugar, beating well. Add egg and vanilla.
Combine flour, baking pwder, and salt; add to butter mixture, beating well. Stir, or mix in, pecans.
(Now I don't chill the dough here. In fact, I hardly do. I might put it in the fridge for five to ten minutes. And, after every thime I put a batch in the oven, I put the rest back into the refridgerator to chill.)
Combine 1/4 sugar and cinnamon on a shallow plate, stir well. Make dough into logs and roll in the mixture. Slice and place on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake at 350 to 12-14 minutes. Remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
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Zucchini Pie (You can't tell it apart from apple!!)
7 1/2 to 8 cups of zucchini-- peeled, seeded and cut into small slices. Cover with water. Cook until tender, drain and pour cold water over-- Let set 5 minutes-- Drain off old water (very, very well)
Add: 2 1/2 cups sugar
3 tsp. cinnamon
3 tsp. cream of tartar
4 tsp. lemon juice
4 tbsp. flour
dash of salt
dash nutmeg
--Mix and put into unbaked pie shell- Dot with butter. Put on top crust (or use Dutch apple pie topping) Bake at 400 for 40-45 minutes
I hope you all enjoy these recipes. Let me know what you think!!
Now, the main reason for my post! I want to post three different recipes that I have been talking about before. So, here they are!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies!
1 cup salad oil
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour.
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
12 oz. chocolate chips
Mix first five ingredients with mixer. Mix in next three and fold in chips. Drop on greased cookie sheets and bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cinnamon-Pecan Icebox Cookies
1 cup butter- softened
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg .
1 tsp. vanilla .
2 1/4 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp.
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Beat butter at medium speed until creamy, gradually add 3/4 cup sugar and brown sugar, beating well. Add egg and vanilla.
Combine flour, baking pwder, and salt; add to butter mixture, beating well. Stir, or mix in, pecans.
(Now I don't chill the dough here. In fact, I hardly do. I might put it in the fridge for five to ten minutes. And, after every thime I put a batch in the oven, I put the rest back into the refridgerator to chill.)
Combine 1/4 sugar and cinnamon on a shallow plate, stir well. Make dough into logs and roll in the mixture. Slice and place on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake at 350 to 12-14 minutes. Remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zucchini Pie (You can't tell it apart from apple!!)
7 1/2 to 8 cups of zucchini-- peeled, seeded and cut into small slices. Cover with water. Cook until tender, drain and pour cold water over-- Let set 5 minutes-- Drain off old water (very, very well)
Add: 2 1/2 cups sugar
3 tsp. cinnamon
3 tsp. cream of tartar
4 tsp. lemon juice
4 tbsp. flour
dash of salt
dash nutmeg
--Mix and put into unbaked pie shell- Dot with butter. Put on top crust (or use Dutch apple pie topping) Bake at 400 for 40-45 minutes
I hope you all enjoy these recipes. Let me know what you think!!
Friday, September 15, 2006
I hope you are all having a great week. As you can plainly see, I have changed my blog! Now, it looks pretty! I so want to thank my brother for helping me with this one. I had it pretty much figured out, but I wanted his assistance, just to be on the safe side. I don't like that I can't have my picture up, but at least when I post comments, it can be seen. (Also, thanks to Erin who gave me the link:-)
School has been going very well for me. By the Lord's grace, I have been able to get up at 6:30, which is amazing. I don't like it, but I am getting everything done on time, so that is good. My studies really started Wednesday; Monday and Tuesday were review. I am absolutely loving my books. I am on the fifth chapter of Uncle Tom's Cabin, and it is great. I feel so sad for the slaves whose lives are just destroyed, despite their loyalty and kindness! Pride and Prejudice has short, really short, chapters, so I am on about seven, I think. I love it too. I am picturing characters from the A&E version as I read it! (I haven't seen the new one yet. -Oh, I know I am posting rather quickly after putting the quiz up. Anyone who hasn't done, it, DO!) Anyway, with this book study, I have to write a research paper on any topic of my choice. (Thank goodness!!!) I am not sure what I am going to do. I am between Stonewall Jackson or Ronald Reagan. Anyone got any ideas? I need to know soon!
I have been doing quite a bit of baking lately. Monday morning, I was asked to make scones with our tea. Today, I am making cookies to have when the Dy's come over for dinner this evening. I already did the cinnamon pecan icebox cookies, and the chocolate chip I will do after school. Why is it that I am always making those two kinds? It's like I never deviate! Oh, well, people like them, regardless of how often I make them!
So, as I said, the Dy's are coming over. That is nice. I really ought to post pictures of them, since I mention them so much on here! Maybe I will. Mom is planning on chicken and dumplings, a green salad, a broccoli salad, watermelon, and cookies. Sound yummy, if you ask me. I am sure we will just talk and show them around our house. We have lived here almost a year, and they haven't seen it yet, much less with all of the furniture in it!!
Other than that, I am not sure what else. Our trees and garden are continuing to be blessed by the Lord of the Harvest. We will have plenty of frozen fruit come winter. Life is just going very well. It is so full of surprises; I love seeing what is going to happen next!
Well, I do now that lunch is coming next, so I had better say adieu! I apologize for the huge gap between posts, but I am a busy girl---at home. Have a great weekend. Hope you are having wonderful fall weather (By the way, the temperature is dropping here. It's cold!) and seeing the Lord's amazing, colorful hand!
School has been going very well for me. By the Lord's grace, I have been able to get up at 6:30, which is amazing. I don't like it, but I am getting everything done on time, so that is good. My studies really started Wednesday; Monday and Tuesday were review. I am absolutely loving my books. I am on the fifth chapter of Uncle Tom's Cabin, and it is great. I feel so sad for the slaves whose lives are just destroyed, despite their loyalty and kindness! Pride and Prejudice has short, really short, chapters, so I am on about seven, I think. I love it too. I am picturing characters from the A&E version as I read it! (I haven't seen the new one yet. -Oh, I know I am posting rather quickly after putting the quiz up. Anyone who hasn't done, it, DO!) Anyway, with this book study, I have to write a research paper on any topic of my choice. (Thank goodness!!!) I am not sure what I am going to do. I am between Stonewall Jackson or Ronald Reagan. Anyone got any ideas? I need to know soon!
I have been doing quite a bit of baking lately. Monday morning, I was asked to make scones with our tea. Today, I am making cookies to have when the Dy's come over for dinner this evening. I already did the cinnamon pecan icebox cookies, and the chocolate chip I will do after school. Why is it that I am always making those two kinds? It's like I never deviate! Oh, well, people like them, regardless of how often I make them!
So, as I said, the Dy's are coming over. That is nice. I really ought to post pictures of them, since I mention them so much on here! Maybe I will. Mom is planning on chicken and dumplings, a green salad, a broccoli salad, watermelon, and cookies. Sound yummy, if you ask me. I am sure we will just talk and show them around our house. We have lived here almost a year, and they haven't seen it yet, much less with all of the furniture in it!!
Other than that, I am not sure what else. Our trees and garden are continuing to be blessed by the Lord of the Harvest. We will have plenty of frozen fruit come winter. Life is just going very well. It is so full of surprises; I love seeing what is going to happen next!
Well, I do now that lunch is coming next, so I had better say adieu! I apologize for the huge gap between posts, but I am a busy girl---at home. Have a great weekend. Hope you are having wonderful fall weather (By the way, the temperature is dropping here. It's cold!) and seeing the Lord's amazing, colorful hand!
Monday, September 11, 2006
It's Monday, and the first day of my junior year in high school! Wow!! I can hardly believe that to be possible. It astounds me. I completely expected to get on here and tell you all what a crazy day I had. Well, that's not the case. I did wake up at 6:30 and did everything I was required to do. However, I did not get into my new material today; I spent my entire time reviewing and editing last year's "stuff!" I was rather disappointed; I was so looking forward to starting Uncle Tom's Cabin and Pride and Prejudice today. Yet, I realize now that I can truly start afresh very soon. Yippee! I must admit, my Achilles heel this year is bound to be science. That is not my subject of choice. Lord, You are going to have to create, if not the desire, the ability, to do it joyfully. I won't be able to do it in my strength, but I know that I can do all things when You strength me!
I won't get into great details about Brianne's party. Just suffice to say, it was great fun, as I knew it would be. We stayed up far too late playing games with her parents and watching movies. (I want to say something about that in a minute.) The food was good, particularly the cake. We ate yummy omelets and then went bowling. I did ok; I did get a strike, but gutter bowls were far more frequent. However, I spent some wonderful time with my friends. I have been truly blessed; not with just them, but with my long distance ones as well.
I just wanted to say something very brief about the movies I watched, Princess Diaries 1 and 2. While I don't like the dating and typical high school scenes they put in, I was amazed to see relatively modest outfits on the part of Mia. I have seen the movies before, but I really never noticed that. I mean, one shirt was rather low, and the gowns, while long, didn't have straps, everything else was fine. Skirts were knee length or lower and shirts were high. I know I cannot excuse the rest of the faults, but it was refreshing to see some decency on the part of Hollywood. (Now if you could only get rid of the rest of the problems, as well as keep the modesty all the time, perhaps our society would be a little better off?)
I am not sure what else I have to say, aside from the fact that today is the fifth anniversary of September 11th. Wow! That also is hard to believe. I am not sure if it feels longer than that, or just like yesterday. Still, I remember that day vividly. I can recall my brother waking me up, telling me something weird is on the tv and Mom is talking to both Grandma and Dad. I spent the next two days watching all of the unfolding events, and then writing a paper on what I felt of the tragedy. Today, I was mixed with sadness. I felt so sorry for the children who lost parents that day, and for the parents who lost children. So many innocent people lost their lives, and most likely, many went to a place of eternal punishment. Isn't that a sad thought?
However, my feelings are also regretful. I believe that September 11, 2001 was a day that Christ was trying to get our attention. Yet, we didn't heed the call. Sure, we became more patriotic and, briefly, bi-partisan, but we never made Christ the centerpiece of our nation again. We continued on in our ways of moral indecent and money conquers all. I don't believe that was what the Lord wanted us to continue doing. I feel that He wanted us to return to the ways of the Founding Fathers, back to the ways of Him guiding and leading this nation. Now, I fear that we have lost any progress we have made. That thought doesn't make me happy, either.
I love being an American. I love flying the flag, singing all of the patriotic songs, wearing red, white and blue, and all of the freedoms that have been given to me. Yet, I am not proud of the fact that my country did not learn anything from 9/11. I know that in my life, you are given tests and lessons in order to change. That should have happened. The songs go God bless America; they really ought to be AMERICA, bless God.
I won't get into great details about Brianne's party. Just suffice to say, it was great fun, as I knew it would be. We stayed up far too late playing games with her parents and watching movies. (I want to say something about that in a minute.) The food was good, particularly the cake. We ate yummy omelets and then went bowling. I did ok; I did get a strike, but gutter bowls were far more frequent. However, I spent some wonderful time with my friends. I have been truly blessed; not with just them, but with my long distance ones as well.
I just wanted to say something very brief about the movies I watched, Princess Diaries 1 and 2. While I don't like the dating and typical high school scenes they put in, I was amazed to see relatively modest outfits on the part of Mia. I have seen the movies before, but I really never noticed that. I mean, one shirt was rather low, and the gowns, while long, didn't have straps, everything else was fine. Skirts were knee length or lower and shirts were high. I know I cannot excuse the rest of the faults, but it was refreshing to see some decency on the part of Hollywood. (Now if you could only get rid of the rest of the problems, as well as keep the modesty all the time, perhaps our society would be a little better off?)
I am not sure what else I have to say, aside from the fact that today is the fifth anniversary of September 11th. Wow! That also is hard to believe. I am not sure if it feels longer than that, or just like yesterday. Still, I remember that day vividly. I can recall my brother waking me up, telling me something weird is on the tv and Mom is talking to both Grandma and Dad. I spent the next two days watching all of the unfolding events, and then writing a paper on what I felt of the tragedy. Today, I was mixed with sadness. I felt so sorry for the children who lost parents that day, and for the parents who lost children. So many innocent people lost their lives, and most likely, many went to a place of eternal punishment. Isn't that a sad thought?
However, my feelings are also regretful. I believe that September 11, 2001 was a day that Christ was trying to get our attention. Yet, we didn't heed the call. Sure, we became more patriotic and, briefly, bi-partisan, but we never made Christ the centerpiece of our nation again. We continued on in our ways of moral indecent and money conquers all. I don't believe that was what the Lord wanted us to continue doing. I feel that He wanted us to return to the ways of the Founding Fathers, back to the ways of Him guiding and leading this nation. Now, I fear that we have lost any progress we have made. That thought doesn't make me happy, either.
I love being an American. I love flying the flag, singing all of the patriotic songs, wearing red, white and blue, and all of the freedoms that have been given to me. Yet, I am not proud of the fact that my country did not learn anything from 9/11. I know that in my life, you are given tests and lessons in order to change. That should have happened. The songs go God bless America; they really ought to be AMERICA, bless God.
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