tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51597926532062518762024-03-14T09:32:51.295-05:00The Cozy Little KitchenRecipes. Homemaking. Marriage and Motherhood Memoirs. The Song of Life God has put in My Heart.
Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.comBlogger322125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-17850345088615878642022-02-16T17:49:00.009-06:002022-02-16T18:41:34.833-06:00God Spoke to Me <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcz0dLy5sItfQgbcIZThc_0Pbp2v6nPoPNmkkL6mpv_SAPGT-n64hoGWKjT4AAcoj1afI_wEMo-hLMet6al1hJDKCqwRaFcLT4FqJP4Jvib_cEKU3qFu52mlwNEFF7IgWiRdf1vEunNyIgky8QKoKYljDADPyFwaoXj_leASyOXx8UtGV2h9F754wr=s1877" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1877" data-original-width="1408" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcz0dLy5sItfQgbcIZThc_0Pbp2v6nPoPNmkkL6mpv_SAPGT-n64hoGWKjT4AAcoj1afI_wEMo-hLMet6al1hJDKCqwRaFcLT4FqJP4Jvib_cEKU3qFu52mlwNEFF7IgWiRdf1vEunNyIgky8QKoKYljDADPyFwaoXj_leASyOXx8UtGV2h9F754wr=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>In March of 2021 I was asked to give my testimony for an online testimonial series my church was putting out online called “This is My Story”. Let me tell you right away that I’m not naturally gifted in speaking publically. In fact, I have drawn much comfort over the years in Moses and how the Lord used Him mightily despite having what was probably a speech impediment or something that almost kept him from saying “yes” to the plan God called him to. While this wouldn’t necessarily be considered public speaking, it is something that would be professionally recorded and sent out across the internet. <div><br /></div><div>Despite, I immediately said yes!</div><div><br /></div><div>I learned years ago to obey God despite my fears, and that it is always worth it. It’s been a pattern in my life where God asks me to step out into something a bit uncomfortable and I do it—in HIS strength alone. </div><div>Why? When it’s in His strength He gets all the glory!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Recognizing that I have a testimony of His great faithfulness as He made me, a barren woman by medical standards, very fertile in adoption after nearly a decade of infertility struggles. When we were praying for the Lord to answer our prayer by giving us a family I told Him specifically that I would give Him all the glory for it —that I wouldn’t shy away from my story in hopes to encourage others in the good plan the Lord has for their own life! His ways are higher and better and we have to release control and surrender to Him in order for that to happen in our lives. This is the message I learned through my years of infertility, miscarriage so that I could be a living testimony for His faithfulness.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s not the first time I’ve shared my story in a public setting, though. Unbeknownst to us at the time, one week exactly before Jayden and Kylie were placed in our home, I spoke at a ladies banquet at my aunt’s church for Mothers Day back in May of 2013. It was clear to me that I was supposed to share my testimony along with the lesson of Ruth and Naomi that I brought. I was crazy nervous about this and at the time our story was very open ended, as were were only in the process of adoption, but I wasn’t mama yet. I heard the Holy Spirit speak to me then about how obeying Him and sharing this testimony of the Lord never leaving me and how He delivered me from my fears would open up the door of blessing in our life and consequently answer our heart’s cry. It absolutely did and much faster than we ever dreamed, as I said before, just a week later we brought home the precious 2 and 3 years old girl and boy that is our Kylie Hope and Jayden Heath!</div><div><br /></div><div>God called me to step out onto the water and do something waaaay out of my comfort zone for His glory and in obeying Him blessing came!</div><div><br /></div><div>When I was asked last spring to again give my testimony (one that is more extensive and felt more “complete” that when I gave it 8 years before) I asked the Lord exactly what I should do. He told me to do it. He also told me something else that I will never forget: the Lord told me that we would face spiritual warfare as a result of giving my testimony. Satan would hate it because of the power a testimony of God brings in the spiritual realm is so powerful to break down strongholds in people’s lives!! Also, because the enemy knows that us being obedient to the Lord brings blessings and Satan hates to see us obey God. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is the second time in my life I was forwarned about upcoming trials and it was also more immediate than I’ve experienced before, but that confirmed to me that it was definitely the Lord letting me know ahead of time. I knew that I was about to walk through a fire due to giving my testimony and that’s exactly what happened. We were hit as a family in just about every area as I mentioned a few things in the previous blog post. A little more insight into those things included an outright spirit of fear and chaos tried to come into the house, our marriage faced tests, I was fighting for joy in motherhood because of shear exhaustion, my self esteem and calling was tried as I lost my singing voice. We had an unexpected financial problems which is one reason I initially chose to homeschool another year even though I knew I didn’t have it in my constitution to do it for another year. There was just a lot of interpersonal drama with people along with the deaths and illnesses.</div><div><br /></div><div>But because I was expecting the fire, I knew who it came from and therefore how to defeat it— by the power of my testimony and the Word of God! I read the Word for myself every morning and spoke it into my life even when I wasn’t seeing any changes taking place. Though my body grew weary, my spirit never did! God gave me hope —He became the Hope— that I clung onto as I trusted Him.</div><div><br /></div><div>But that spring of last year, the Lord said something else to me around the time I was seeking Him and He alerted me that spiritual warfare was coming but that I was doing the right thing. It’s something I’ve never told anybody before. </div><div><br /></div><div>Holy Spirit told me that we would have another baby!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>That’s right, haha!</div><div><br /></div><div>I knew He said that and at the time I didn’t even tell Heath, because it was something I couldn’t wrap my head around the “hows” of it all, but I completely believed Him!!! I knew we would have another child. I put that on the shelf and came back to it from time to time as a word of hope over our future, and I was a little bewildered and excited!</div><div><br /></div><div>My testimony went out and was shared so much online, and I received lots of personal messages of woman reaching out to talk to me about it. I can’t say enough how privileged I am to partner with what God is doing in other people’s lives. If He can use me, truly, He can use anybody!</div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward past all the next several months. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was sick again after having Covid the previous month and it was September. I also just had an implant put in and I experienced some bad nerve pain for about 3 weeks on top of not feeling well. I needed a word from the Lord for encouragement so I asked Him. God told me to write this down…</div><div><br /></div><div>On the chalkboard on our kitchen wall I wrote <i>God is doing a new thing</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div>I didn’t know what that meant exactly or what that new thing was, but I believed Him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Guys, we don’t have to understand and know but we do have to believe Him! Following Jesus is a lot of obeying Him and believing Him and He will literally lead and guide our heart and our footsteps.</div><div><br /></div><div>I believed Him so much I wrote it down as a reminder on the chalkboard and it is still on the chalkboard! I kept it up until it made sense to me. Again, this came as a word of hope that we would get through these trials and to the other side! All I wanted was to feel like we had made it to the Promised Land that for me looked like peace and out of the wilderness that felt like out of control chaos. That word told me in September that God was moving in our life ....little did we know!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>It was just about a week into December and we were eating supper around the table after church on a Sunday evening. I felt something shift that particular month already that felt like a renewed joy in our household but things were about to really come together as we were about to get a glimpse of our “Promised Land” from the wilderness place! We received a text that came initially from a local pastor of a woman looking for a family to place her baby for adoption. She knew that we had a heart for adoption so we were asked. In that very moment my heart skipped a beat as I remembered what the Lord has told me earlier that year about us having another baby!!! I looked at Heath when he asked if I was interested in finding out more, and automatically said “Yes!” He of course said yes, because I married a man who loves adoption deeply. It was confirmed after a beautiful conversation with this expectant mama just three days later that we were chosen to be the adoptive parents!!! We didn’t go looking for a baby, but this time it was like the baby came to us.</div><div><br /></div><div>That’s when the home study renewal process quickly began, but not before the devastating F4-5 tornado ravaged our community and state as it barely passed our house two night later. Sobering and rocked out world, its a night we won’t forget. But I was spared a second time this year. First, I survived Covid and second, I survived a monster of a tornado that tragically took lives around us. Because of the gravity of that the Lord brought me to a place of surrender this year. After saying good bye to several people we knew and loved in our life who we feel like left this earth too soon, I began to get real with God about my purpose. I felt this way even more after surviving Covid. I knew that I was here on earth for a purpose and a plan and I narrowed my sights to focus solely on what that is. I told God sometime in September that I was ready to live my life in surrender to Him fully. That means giving up my own rights, plans and dreams that I had and asking Him to plant the seeds of His dreams in my life. A little scary, I also know in my heart of hearts that His will is the safest place to be. When He spoke to me His plan for us to have another baby at that time I had no idea how I could manage another one, honestly. I felt overwhelmed and tired and was looking forward to the “next season” hoping it would bring me more personal freedom, creativity, socializing, and health and wellness to nurture my mind and body after several years of pouring into little kids above myself. I thought I was ready to move on and do “bigger things” that would be productive in helping the community, the ladies ministry, the worship team—all of these hopes that I saw for 2022-2023 as the kids all went back to school.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I went to God and told Him I was trusting Him with my life that if he wanted to give me another baby, I trust He would make a way. That it would be by His strength to mother and nurture more kiddos and that I would also have the desire and the love and passion to even the physical energy that I would need to set dreams aside and fully be invested in my number one dream that is being a mama!! I’m sure you’ve also found out that sometimes He calls first and then quips after we say yes. So at the dinner table when faced with the question whether we wanted to adopt another sweet one, my answer reflected the deepened trust that I had found in the Lord. I want to be a vessel for His honor and glory and my number one call and job that He sees of upmost importance is my raising children! I cannot find the words to say through tears just how happy I am that He has called us to that again. I can’t get that babe in my arms fast enough to love on!!!! I’ve been on cloud nine these last several weeks as I’m buying newborn outfits, baby booties, bottles, blankets, a changing table….all the precious things. There’s nothing like it in the world like looking into the eyes of a brand new tiny human who automatically loves you and whom you love deep. It’s the hardest and yet best most glorious thing I can imagine.</div><div><br /></div><div>That’s my story of how the Lord planted a seed, softened my heart and my will to His.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPmQGx0Zp9mHjz_32HVcRBQsrDa5eixYg1bT4HAe9S6HOI2kbkVyd69kMLNCS_nYxGfv6HxWVMWJvLZIRBQeiAeUZUZMigkaLQLbcDwYzwcUrdS_A6GD5qtwk2b_WGPPuhPSikPxs1WJKiho5wAzfApP0iD6D--2JfTdXQ3hjNFnXOVin8yk3djLKI=s982" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="982" data-original-width="619" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPmQGx0Zp9mHjz_32HVcRBQsrDa5eixYg1bT4HAe9S6HOI2kbkVyd69kMLNCS_nYxGfv6HxWVMWJvLZIRBQeiAeUZUZMigkaLQLbcDwYzwcUrdS_A6GD5qtwk2b_WGPPuhPSikPxs1WJKiho5wAzfApP0iD6D--2JfTdXQ3hjNFnXOVin8yk3djLKI=w404-h640" width="404" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i>If you’re wondering what I mean by Holy Spirit speaking to me, let me explain. First for me it’s not audible. I know His voice which sounds like a thought that doesn’t come from myself. It’s something that is usually clear to me with an assurance that I know it’s His voice. I just know after walking with Him for almost my whole life. When you become a Christian you have the Holy Spirit literally living in you and so that’s one way God speaks to us and the other is through His Word. His Word will always confirm the Spirit! He wants to speak to you, too!</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-1247461694036841942022-02-15T14:15:00.015-06:002022-02-15T17:57:38.502-06:00Big News!!!! (I’m Getting Personal)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyGfY0xb75L016YRPwPVgwBelOeymXFo9duPg6fpIQcacOJz6AiYlR02XPqN1jZmJlFV5PfH3uWfKk4CDwWvvEV-D0ichra6Wa3g-vVElC41ZZ8AinuTAc7wZ37ru4AahJIL8DP1HVZhGNKdhPsmN6eXl4TElfjfhvbkMe40u4HGFWjbGOpc2i06B8=s2784" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1856" data-original-width="2784" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyGfY0xb75L016YRPwPVgwBelOeymXFo9duPg6fpIQcacOJz6AiYlR02XPqN1jZmJlFV5PfH3uWfKk4CDwWvvEV-D0ichra6Wa3g-vVElC41ZZ8AinuTAc7wZ37ru4AahJIL8DP1HVZhGNKdhPsmN6eXl4TElfjfhvbkMe40u4HGFWjbGOpc2i06B8=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br />We’ve been keeping a little secret…. We’re welcoming a new little princess into our family!!! <p></p><p>Heath and I are adopting a baby girl!!!!</p><p>She is due to be born on March 27th!!!! </p><p>I am officially <i>paper pregnant, </i>and I couldn’t be more surprised or thrilled myself that we’re given the gift of becoming new parents again to a precious one. The miracle that I am a mom will never get old to me.</p><p>So….as you can see from our announcement picture, we decided to take a last minute trip or <i>baby moon</i> with our kids to Disney World a couple weeks ago to celebrate our growing family and to pour ourselves into our children before I go back into survival mode which is the first few months of bringing a baby home. I can’t begin to say just how special it was to be at Disney World riding the rides, building memories at our favorite restaurants and character meets while I held the joyful secret that my heart is carrying a baby girl. I am so glad we parted the waters of our cold January life for sun, fun, and celebration at the most magical place on earth. It just seemed fitting!!</p><p>While still processing this news myself, I couldn’t hold it in any longer. Those of you who are on social media have seen our announcement already, but I wanted to share a bit more of the story in this personal space.</p><p>If you happen to be new here, adoption is the way the Lord grows our family. We have adopted all of our children! I love the way adoption reflects the way God brings His children into His family! (Ephesians 1:5) It’s a process that starts with pain and grief and ends with hope and redemption! Beauty from ashes.</p><p>Hahahaha. So, this surprise was on us actually! Before I begin there, let me back up just a little more and give you some back story. When I came back to blogging last year I said that I would go deeper with you online this space so that’s what I’m going to do. I’m taking the long way around to tell you how the Lord birthed this journey in us. </p><p>We didn’t know the Lord had this plan for us to have 4 children, but when we were asked about being interested in adopting this new little one, we automatically said “YES!”. Hahaha, more children weren’t even on our radar! (This is such a God thing.) We were perfectly content and happy with our three precious children, and I thought Rosemary would be our last child for a number of reasons…. First, she acts like a final child. ;) Heath and I both grew up in a home of three children. We are in our late thirties already and I’m beginning to feel it. We have a very full life, and I personally didn’t think more children would be on the table. Let’s just leave it there for now. Ultimately we were so very grateful for our family of five.</p><p>But God!</p><p>Backing up again. </p><p>Last year was….a lot.</p><p>It was a hard year for our family and for me personally—much harder for me than 2020. Most of it is personal stuff I won’t share, but I will say that I felt like I was brought to the brink. I stayed home by myself with the children most of the time. Homeschooling for the first time just doing the best I can and not having much support there. My husband is a pediatrician and was much, much, much busier than he has ever been working late nights and getting called into work more. The load of stress as he navigates an ever changing pandemic is something every healthcare worker has found a learning curve that no training could prepare one enough for. While he was present when he was around, we felt more like two tired ships passing in the night than a married couple most weeks —which left me pretty lonely and managing a lot by myself. Most of you may know that I’m introverted so it takes a lot for me to feel lonely, but I was very lonely in a house full of kids who are extroverts who were not getting the time with friends they truly needed. I wasn’t getting that either.</p><p>In June we lost two grandparents to Heaven suddenly, exactly to the very hour, one week apart. Two funerals saying goodbye to two of our favorite people in a week. That was very hard and brand new territory for us to deal with that kind of grief and watch our parents grieve was hard.. that’s when Heath’s work started to pick up. Delta cases in July were on the rise very suddenly.</p><p>Just a month later I was one of the breakthrough cases of the Delta variant of Covid, and I was very sick at home at the end of July going into August. The kids had to manage at home by themselves while I quarantined in our bedroom for 10 days. Heath was so busy at work he couldn’t be home to take care of us, although he did well to train the big kids to take care of the house. (Oh, also he potty trained Rosemary that week too! There’s always a silver lining!) The Lord absolutely protected my lungs from the virus, but I suffered from some long Covid symptoms. I actually became sick (not with Covid) again 3 more times before the year’s end which left me fatigued mentally and physically. Needless to say, by the time December was approaching I was ready for the New Year to roll around for a fresh start. Also for our kids to start back to the new private, Christian school we enrolled them in. (They’re loving being back at school, by the way, and I am too!)</p><p>During the stretch of several months that felt like one wave after the next was trying to knock us down, and in the midst I pursued Jesus a lot. I always like to think that I do, but 2021 brought me to the feet of Jesus in prayer literally throughout the day. Every single day. I needed wisdom. Healing. Comfort. Guidance. Strength in long suffering. Patience. Joy. Peace and Hope….. each morning He gave me what I needed and I came back for more of Him.</p><p>Okay. So. What happened in the midst of this is that He spoke to me through His Spirit… so some of these things were not a surprise… </p><p>More of that next blog….I have to go pick up my sweet girl from school now. Just wait until you hear the rest. God is good!!!</p><p>(We’re going to have a baby, friends!!!)</p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-88549686257974687232022-01-25T08:47:00.003-06:002022-01-25T13:42:03.844-06:00Sizzling Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjsE40nZizdY9LoVYNrXgE4C_6TtCjA3z2rVGH0MDzDX7iRi5yU361kGNSFeCbmgPMtTrgsWg3Bb4l2EnwP9AeQdeXPhH9peSBzse5SfY5SBK4-I6Jdg1IwFkMEhQ6ZOYQyP0J6nDnMKT4Bc5cipqNM3se3RWupEyz9daDG-5LdjdPKnJX6CJULQKlv=s3816" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3816" data-original-width="2904" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjsE40nZizdY9LoVYNrXgE4C_6TtCjA3z2rVGH0MDzDX7iRi5yU361kGNSFeCbmgPMtTrgsWg3Bb4l2EnwP9AeQdeXPhH9peSBzse5SfY5SBK4-I6Jdg1IwFkMEhQ6ZOYQyP0J6nDnMKT4Bc5cipqNM3se3RWupEyz9daDG-5LdjdPKnJX6CJULQKlv=w488-h640" width="488" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What is it about winter that makes me just want to eat a soup or stew with bread all the live long day? I think that it comforts our body from the harsh cold weather outside and when our body is comforted and warmed that also soothes our soul a bit, too, don’t you think?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I live in Kentucky, and in our part of the state we consider ourselves Southern. That said, I come from a long line of fantastic Southern cooks, so I have eaten a lot of amazing cornbread in my days! My mom makes some of the best I’ve ever put in my mouth! She usually makes it with white cornmeal and it is buttery, very light and tender, and melts in my mouth. Mom has her own secret ingredient (maybe I can ask get her recipe to share with you) that her mom’s mom used. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Recently my wonderful husband and I traveled to Boston to celebrate being married 17 years, and there we visited <a href="http://unionoysterhouse.com/pages/history.html">Union Oyster House</a> . A national historic landmark, Union Oyster House was established in 1826 and is known as America’s oldest restaurant! This place was a gem!! Nestled in a very cozy nook of a street in the heart of downtown Boston near the bay, we enjoyed buttery lobster rolls, fish and chips, and a cup of delicious clam chowder! They served it with a large piece of their famed cornbread! This wasn’t Southern cornbread, because it was sweet, but it was really delicious!! On the frigid but beautiful day that it was, that quintessential New England cuisine was just what we needed to continue our walking The Freedom Trail. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Highly recommend trying this place if it’s you’re first visit to Boston! It may be a bit touristy for locals but the atmosphere was tight and warm and welcoming with nostalgic pictures and memorabilia.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgA0HMt8Wz0MS7dFxm-Ya2jmw8UD8axOoNBedvwDfo6YO6yL31JL7b-v0nCro4gYbwy59MYpIRPHBhuKsLxCoI0ikIRcibmKjhCngMRWV5F3WgcTVgGJ65gws7X2S700DHq92t24vkfr6NVUQ-xPatPSi13OTy0OsIrycvQbGEIuM_qHodoaWsgfr2L=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgA0HMt8Wz0MS7dFxm-Ya2jmw8UD8axOoNBedvwDfo6YO6yL31JL7b-v0nCro4gYbwy59MYpIRPHBhuKsLxCoI0ikIRcibmKjhCngMRWV5F3WgcTVgGJ65gws7X2S700DHq92t24vkfr6NVUQ-xPatPSi13OTy0OsIrycvQbGEIuM_qHodoaWsgfr2L=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimaTmChL9Xeg-0RJtcSIQLdSYeSG8flXdfyrE2lzrEG3AiA6MmgqPUorchmWZqYkDDMremNNjffumbYd_0G5Nej7Q_D0TfpMjFIyKJHrcOCby046deWc0QFdWKQN8FvGSKAih5MEiswyh1U4Bs5RHht6Rg4WL2b8z8QFdjFYNygE6X2_gP2scsgnVx=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimaTmChL9Xeg-0RJtcSIQLdSYeSG8flXdfyrE2lzrEG3AiA6MmgqPUorchmWZqYkDDMremNNjffumbYd_0G5Nej7Q_D0TfpMjFIyKJHrcOCby046deWc0QFdWKQN8FvGSKAih5MEiswyh1U4Bs5RHht6Rg4WL2b8z8QFdjFYNygE6X2_gP2scsgnVx=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-VaPx2RuHW-DyGUtN5s7x0Kmqpq-zCEkJkE7TJxB3ORtC1S46S2PVlUaDBk8PQQwAuD9pjzUA4yQrHa9ciFic_9iyxeeHrE6qiqioyb1pmkP6JaUgfbY2d-IaB3QnTKMvW5MjJ8l2C7euUdH6bdVe83C9oqscNp_nGKALz2jL80Z5g6d9gHi_NB47=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-VaPx2RuHW-DyGUtN5s7x0Kmqpq-zCEkJkE7TJxB3ORtC1S46S2PVlUaDBk8PQQwAuD9pjzUA4yQrHa9ciFic_9iyxeeHrE6qiqioyb1pmkP6JaUgfbY2d-IaB3QnTKMvW5MjJ8l2C7euUdH6bdVe83C9oqscNp_nGKALz2jL80Z5g6d9gHi_NB47=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEge9mjQgP05HKDS3TYlDjRALV-4LurAQrexmYR2FcuOQOdFlWLs9Zi4zDyb6kHVb-DKC_8CuKDEyC6zlib7hl3q4SF5J2azjIwlEP9s85EQU19aCTIIhfEakz1cGzuTbxUOWNRjRPRwJa1u2j3xXslmaeSIDSzSKsrto0hXrul3axBsm5WpKjEItbvf=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEge9mjQgP05HKDS3TYlDjRALV-4LurAQrexmYR2FcuOQOdFlWLs9Zi4zDyb6kHVb-DKC_8CuKDEyC6zlib7hl3q4SF5J2azjIwlEP9s85EQU19aCTIIhfEakz1cGzuTbxUOWNRjRPRwJa1u2j3xXslmaeSIDSzSKsrto0hXrul3axBsm5WpKjEItbvf=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you’re wondering how my husband and I liked Boston and the New England, we LOVED it. Absolutely will be back to visit. It was cold, yet stunningly gorgeous in the fall! Boston was more beautiful than I could’ve imagined with all the historic neighborhoods, old churches, original cobblestone streets, the maple trees and the lovely Boston Harbor. The city was a food-lovers dream, and the people were so friendly and welcoming! We drove up to Rockport and then up Maine’s coast and I can’t say enough to how scenic everything was!!! I felt like Jessica Fletcher from Murder She Wrote—my favorite mystery novelist character! ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So as I was saying before, I love cornbread. Haha! The recipe I’ve used mostly in the last few years I sometimes change up a bit, but it’s basic Southern cornbread recipe from the bag of Martha White buttermilk cornbread mix. I sometimes elevate it by subbing out the oil for melted butter and adding a drizzle of honey.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But the way I prepare it makes it special. I always, always use my cast iron skillet. Sometimes I use my 9 inch and sometimes my 12 inch if I want it a bit thinner and a tad “crispier” in texture. If you like Cracker Barrel’s cornbread muffins, you’ll probably like the way this is prepared.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I’ll say that you can absolutely use shortening or lard in this application, but I prefer butter. So as my oven is preheating, I stick my skillet in the oven to heat with it. I bake the cornbread at 440-450 degrees F. I am wanting the pan to be blazing hot. I mix up the cornbread quickly as the pan is heating in the oven. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once the cornbread batter is ready and has sat for a moment, I take the pan out and plop about 2-3 Tbsp. of salted butter in the pan and give it a swirl and place th pan back in the oven for a minute to melt. It will happen fast. Take it back out (carefullly—please don’t burn yourself) and immediately pour the batter into the hot and buttered pan. It should sizzle and the batter will begin to set! Place back into the oven to bake the cornbread.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This method will yield you a moist (I said it) cornbread that’s crispy and buttery on the bottom, like it’s been fried! It’s just so good! Once finished baking I melt another pat of butter on the top of the pan before cutting it to serve.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope the next time you make some chili you’ll think about making a pan of cornbread and try this method! Also, if you don’t have a cast iron skillet, they’re so easy to find! Lodge brand sells them already seasoned or if you want to go vintage, but one from an antique or thrift store second hand. For under $40 you should be able to get a wonderfully homemade seasoned pan that will last forever if you take care of it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Stay warm and cozy and enjoy this soup and bread season while it’s here!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirm8DwYsLIPE6QVXLXvdyGHxNOPvObfRTtyY-Z4tOxIit7vYq6t9h2MGXLL2jll6u43hmAU15ihINYbZz2Jsqk8wiHmuX3wVye0lehNLSs-d-KjLqWpeSMfTS0sGHGJgMSaZ2rb8DyIEsXcpsy-Kh0yxiBzaeakQDV_pAD7PM9RQdp_LVG3T8Ifpp9=s3667" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3667" data-original-width="2754" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirm8DwYsLIPE6QVXLXvdyGHxNOPvObfRTtyY-Z4tOxIit7vYq6t9h2MGXLL2jll6u43hmAU15ihINYbZz2Jsqk8wiHmuX3wVye0lehNLSs-d-KjLqWpeSMfTS0sGHGJgMSaZ2rb8DyIEsXcpsy-Kh0yxiBzaeakQDV_pAD7PM9RQdp_LVG3T8Ifpp9=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Simple Southern Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 c. Martha White Buttermilk Self-rising Yellow Cornbread Mix</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Egg</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 1/3 c. Milk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/4 c. Melted Salted Butter of Canola Oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drizzle of local honey, or whatever kind<b> you have</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3 Tbsp. Salted Butter </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. I usually put mine at 440 and it’s just right. Place your cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In a large bowl mix a lightly beaten egg with the milk and butter or oil together. Add the cornmeal mix and drizzle of honey and mix well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Take the hot skillet out of the oven carefully and place the 3 tablespoons of butter. Place skillet back into the oven for one minute to allow the butter to melt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Take the skillet out and carefully (not to burn yourself) pour the cornbread batter in the sizzling hot skillet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bake for 20-23 minutes. Rub a pat of butter on the top and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Slice and serve promptly!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjm50cGLLxuQaEt3MN2BmRTelwzWehVtqbzXkq3JwqwebNQu2rXcz7wI4-bVeQaPXX6AkdxzRUdLv-VQY4mnjHYZ2bB1PCJxdaLKL-FD_cqWUzLbFRJuTLz-Bdh-dI8vRi01XJ5tu1nSy-qWu2rdy7foDkHseotAzROZjCTZuTXWRhFAtiQbmW-jfbD=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjm50cGLLxuQaEt3MN2BmRTelwzWehVtqbzXkq3JwqwebNQu2rXcz7wI4-bVeQaPXX6AkdxzRUdLv-VQY4mnjHYZ2bB1PCJxdaLKL-FD_cqWUzLbFRJuTLz-Bdh-dI8vRi01XJ5tu1nSy-qWu2rdy7foDkHseotAzROZjCTZuTXWRhFAtiQbmW-jfbD=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-67150132357751757152022-01-20T21:22:00.013-06:002022-01-21T10:50:48.356-06:00Resting and Fulfillment <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBtACYGFrn1RqnHkdgvK8XTYnWZ-YKR4_nRACF5ceQcAAL4L7DLoV6_r0TvUsMEDEwoiPA0w1PhpQsot11EZQX4GjB5YmHM6Nq91vCsZbFCCL2VQoZ9MerRPMq7C57GMNH8rtkpxb3P0GnxeMc_HkPR8xr6QT6fmMrw0BytPzGLX117lkcg5AZWmfn=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBtACYGFrn1RqnHkdgvK8XTYnWZ-YKR4_nRACF5ceQcAAL4L7DLoV6_r0TvUsMEDEwoiPA0w1PhpQsot11EZQX4GjB5YmHM6Nq91vCsZbFCCL2VQoZ9MerRPMq7C57GMNH8rtkpxb3P0GnxeMc_HkPR8xr6QT6fmMrw0BytPzGLX117lkcg5AZWmfn=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By the incandescent glow of candlelight wafting a sweet plum fragrance and the small light atop my book, I am thoroughly enjoying my new book, <u>Help, I’m Drowning—Weathering the Storms of Life with Grace and Hope</u> by one of my favorite author’s and podcasters, Sally Clarkson. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What a <i>treat</i> this is for me! Sitting on a soft, cushy sofa across from my husband at the end of another long day. It feels like I’ve crossed a finish line when I get to this point! The coffee topped with a blanket of foam from the new milk frother/steamer along with the book is icing on the cake. Just to put up my feet feels like Heaven touching earth, if for just an hour! What you don’t see are all the strewn toys around because I was too tired to rally the troops for clean up before bedtime tonight.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This book was a really sweet Christmas gift from my sister, Faith. One that I’ve really wanted since it came out in September. I won’t dwell on it here but last year was one of the most challenging years I’ve faced. As I trusted and knew that He would, the Lord in His faithfulness, picked me out from the miry pit of the last couple of years and set me on a rock!! Praise to Him! (Psalm 40:1-2)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s so interesting because though these days haven’t been instantly easy, I feel as though when He picked me out from the pit He sat me right on His <i>lap</i>! I’ve experienced real intimacy with Him the last 6 weeks or so that has been wonderful and refreshing. He has been so very precious and loving as a Father to remind me how much He loves me! That He remembers our family and has shown us in unique ways that I will get into more as the year unfolds. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My time spent with Him hasn’t changed. I’ve always woken up early and given Him first fruits. I am not perfect at this and I never ever want to paint myself like that at all, but I love spending time with Jesus every morning in prayer and His Word. I need Him truly, and my need for Him became a desire for Him that became a fire for Him!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I’ve learned in life that sometimes the seemingly insurmountable change or breakthrough that you’re praying for, takes place not after something remarkable except for the faithfulness of walking with Jesus day in and day out no matter how good or bad the days get. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Faithfulness. That’s a quality way underrated these days and yet worth more than gold!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Remaining faithful and trusting His perfect timing. Sometimes doubt and fear creeps trying to convince me that whatever I’m struggling through will last forever, but that’s where time in His Presence renews my mind and He gives me joy that becomes my strength!! So over time I have always seen the faithfulness of God to fulfill His promises in my life! Always.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a long but good day, it’s so <i>fulfilling</i> to know you are tired from whatever you are called to do— for me it’s mothering and homemaking. What a blessed calling to raise my kids, help with the projects, pick up groceries, sing songs, cook homemade meals and organize and clean the house day in and out. It’s exhausting and wonderful beyond words for my soul. My husband must feel the same with after a long day at work when we come back together an relax in the evenings before bed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you find yourself in a place to kick your feet up, knowing that Jesus remembers you and He loves you, therefore we can deeply enjoy the life we have!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sweet dream, my Friends! </div><p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-45271501576801984542022-01-17T17:35:00.005-06:002022-01-17T22:01:46.932-06:00A Little Note…<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiijOOMwNsURfCWWVTMd7rMJNpVeQ_eLBSRrlMnmkbr5viTgWp2lzBFmPWr4HjPVJXKm2WEnFXu5_Z1e1AZejkYDAjCQNZflf-zsTIR6ZtE1V90gJs5_y_ZyUQ3Sem7X1AHXpP9Y6HRyhYOwFEDHqs4WAtYJ5U5t7hdHgIJxkaNCGuFXJBR0HKF6P2-=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiijOOMwNsURfCWWVTMd7rMJNpVeQ_eLBSRrlMnmkbr5viTgWp2lzBFmPWr4HjPVJXKm2WEnFXu5_Z1e1AZejkYDAjCQNZflf-zsTIR6ZtE1V90gJs5_y_ZyUQ3Sem7X1AHXpP9Y6HRyhYOwFEDHqs4WAtYJ5U5t7hdHgIJxkaNCGuFXJBR0HKF6P2-=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello again, Friends!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I see that I received some sweet comments not only on the blog I just wrote but from some I wrote over the fall! I am really sorry that I’m trying to respond but can’t at this point. Working on it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It would be such a blessing to move my blog one day from Blogger and own a tiny bit of the internet (what fun!) honestly because of all the technical problems it’s given me. That clearly hasn’t happened yet, however, just know that I have <i>tried</i> to reply to you! My smart hubby will help me figure out whatever is going on. In the meantime, thanks for all the grace!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really do have the sweetest friends in here from years and years of writing, and I’m so happy when I see that I also have some new ones, too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So my sweet baby girl, who is almost four, is playing in the girls’ lightly “updated” and organized playroom! It’s way more fun when they can actually see what is there and when there’s plenty of floor space in their play nook. :) Seeing her busy at work delights my heart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjub7018rLR1HGKUbNgKhU1OIMCPxATN4-A-WipVRXumBTpmXfJX0gKZTXfj2cARnZHaCiCwbJPFnHglGyu3yKJrZdojGPD9Lu_q_ygY2cEVUlYFS5XATYqTmALh3DeDDFYC9UyYYe9Crt-Vng623kvGh3e8m71RVCMYOXgPvKCDbAVFqPGaHFWkns=s3759" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3759" data-original-width="2610" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjub7018rLR1HGKUbNgKhU1OIMCPxATN4-A-WipVRXumBTpmXfJX0gKZTXfj2cARnZHaCiCwbJPFnHglGyu3yKJrZdojGPD9Lu_q_ygY2cEVUlYFS5XATYqTmALh3DeDDFYC9UyYYe9Crt-Vng623kvGh3e8m71RVCMYOXgPvKCDbAVFqPGaHFWkns=w444-h640" width="444" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Again, I apologize, but please know I loove reading your comments and the community that has grown between my blog to Instagram or Facebook and back over the last 12 years I’ve been doing this. Thank you all for taking a moment to read and I always hope you leave feeling blessed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Stay warm, safe, and cozy out there and remember above all else, Jesus loves you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-49228596370578808812022-01-16T23:10:00.017-06:002022-01-17T15:03:32.598-06:00Snow Days & A Beautiful Beginning to 2022<p> The first week of the 2022 gave us in Kentucky the best gift this year—<i>winter came!</i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3iS07sigxtKmEGUt35nrgE7zLBo1WdwEAyXvtbocRYkr2OGXCJuVB2YT65wdOhAifAK12L3mwa2tbwn6JC8pIgEPTIwFHBpAfPcofFXhimPkxNg0j8pyO-1pw7T20DlUTb83eMPDBsi2hWYRv-5cQoVfXtf3c7NcwuOVCghEm6eTZljAQA_iElVbQ=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3iS07sigxtKmEGUt35nrgE7zLBo1WdwEAyXvtbocRYkr2OGXCJuVB2YT65wdOhAifAK12L3mwa2tbwn6JC8pIgEPTIwFHBpAfPcofFXhimPkxNg0j8pyO-1pw7T20DlUTb83eMPDBsi2hWYRv-5cQoVfXtf3c7NcwuOVCghEm6eTZljAQA_iElVbQ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">And as you can see, we were ready for it!!!</span></div><div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmtRD-ubIIrn6Pt4e9k9qm-Avng4SffUzzzZnMOJOQkzU5h76FlkUUp5dBjXabcIUunoTv5ZBx6W-8zDHCTDfJH0EbJ3gt3ChxSFlL2p7vjsHUOTc_8RyApyZ3qSrBdltpmIRXn-sl8DvjrP2OlfPTyaanQI-a6mlIRY0PmgEcWhumJx03hn90mqZG=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmtRD-ubIIrn6Pt4e9k9qm-Avng4SffUzzzZnMOJOQkzU5h76FlkUUp5dBjXabcIUunoTv5ZBx6W-8zDHCTDfJH0EbJ3gt3ChxSFlL2p7vjsHUOTc_8RyApyZ3qSrBdltpmIRXn-sl8DvjrP2OlfPTyaanQI-a6mlIRY0PmgEcWhumJx03hn90mqZG=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hallelujah for the Lord giving us a whole day of watching beautiful, fluffy, snow fall!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdBosYLLxLG_BoPXy9bvNiOqyxaGfVsJKWowqRiR2RtnwPYDTdLplqA2MAXwza9vHjSxPMPynTU3xIAUmSC4yzwpUWnwMrbEMWX-PReCijiZTzFVuvbVohBk9nlvp6K-v3uQ79j5UcM4QRj78rqXWW3McDB0vGhROIenLm7tvrB3RE6e2UstT8R1jZ=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdBosYLLxLG_BoPXy9bvNiOqyxaGfVsJKWowqRiR2RtnwPYDTdLplqA2MAXwza9vHjSxPMPynTU3xIAUmSC4yzwpUWnwMrbEMWX-PReCijiZTzFVuvbVohBk9nlvp6K-v3uQ79j5UcM4QRj78rqXWW3McDB0vGhROIenLm7tvrB3RE6e2UstT8R1jZ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>After a December that felt way more like a terrible case of the worst of spring with an F-5 tornado, flash flooding, and warm gray days, we deserved a cold, seasonal white winter to enjoy.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJoMRrSF3kZT1isbsVdDTjR2yZg1zb19AmBdxQmiO7s3QzB9rI0f_IA-FozrJr-CvXaffCZne_h1k0n-yccciyhzl5JyP0ZVjwbSOjA0ynupMDtnvPLirZwvhxwWHB9iPBRfqDyr_nJ1XdPRQEnIh0UTBMGxoYG0ihSb8PQi9OR7SUZSEldcpc5Xmp=s1910" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1910" data-original-width="1404" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJoMRrSF3kZT1isbsVdDTjR2yZg1zb19AmBdxQmiO7s3QzB9rI0f_IA-FozrJr-CvXaffCZne_h1k0n-yccciyhzl5JyP0ZVjwbSOjA0ynupMDtnvPLirZwvhxwWHB9iPBRfqDyr_nJ1XdPRQEnIh0UTBMGxoYG0ihSb8PQi9OR7SUZSEldcpc5Xmp=w470-h640" width="470" /></a></div><br /><p>Right at about 5-6 inches, our area received a perfect blanket of snow that came in the form of big fluffy flakes that began in the early morning with the sunrise (somewhere behind the snow clouds) and ended mid afternoon. It fell gracefully throughout the day, the perfect way to watch it fall from swollen snow clouds to the frozen ground. It stuck right away! </p><p>Truly, I don't know if me or the kids were more excited! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQiWesyodHkghEqHKscEHsaKtsrWMShSzvYfflZgvmgMjRf3CKLeLBbW2K9ilOXTJmKAYlDpTFm-ptjBAiGkalk_AEctKm9ht_NndYts1eVYotvi3WKall96FTt_xrc2F3ulOWTWxRD8V5HxLbI6LJePUPwJlOBKG4ptFxROOY8xCnlCOKZu9m2jVm=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQiWesyodHkghEqHKscEHsaKtsrWMShSzvYfflZgvmgMjRf3CKLeLBbW2K9ilOXTJmKAYlDpTFm-ptjBAiGkalk_AEctKm9ht_NndYts1eVYotvi3WKall96FTt_xrc2F3ulOWTWxRD8V5HxLbI6LJePUPwJlOBKG4ptFxROOY8xCnlCOKZu9m2jVm=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYCaueR-GM2hpkyVLSOBg4IHv-NMbpkskqoI3I7ICzS30XwyHPGG4ewDlcjcUB31HnaT8IhNIq6ih-WdFalm2lqOy08xyhccscK8If_y4uFYMl1vhfRfu_tTjfDfIvfC84hfugAGcU2rvLhXLixv0Uxwg8yVAsyN0G5BU2l4zYdctxRgD5hAqa24p3=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYCaueR-GM2hpkyVLSOBg4IHv-NMbpkskqoI3I7ICzS30XwyHPGG4ewDlcjcUB31HnaT8IhNIq6ih-WdFalm2lqOy08xyhccscK8If_y4uFYMl1vhfRfu_tTjfDfIvfC84hfugAGcU2rvLhXLixv0Uxwg8yVAsyN0G5BU2l4zYdctxRgD5hAqa24p3=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>We gathered all the snow gear we could find and all the warm hats and gloves and scarves for it was honestly bitter cold, but our excitement kept us outside over 15 minutes! </p><p>Tiny tongues caught snowflakes, snowballs were thrown, snow angels made.</p><p>It’s a lot of dedication for moms to get everyone all layered up and ready from head to toe, including ourselves, and bundled like Ralphie and Randy from the Christmas Story! When it’s 11 degrees outside, every inch is covered in at least four layers here! Why, in just a matter of moments we are back inside and dropping clothes on the rugs in the mud room and setting them in front of the electric fireplace we have in there to dry before our next outing. </p><p>It’s a lot, yes, but once I’m out in the brisk air and feel the snowflakes on my own cheeks I come alive!! I understand why kids love snow so much, because I still love playing in the snow!</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhsEZewoQaa5ZoQadeYebKM5oLFYI4iZUT0mqaspqJUR7dtH8TEDz3PQwk6U0O1E3ZosXHBLf1gn0R6ywFTkUVYolm9dNRXsqmCw_SD5iiT66aA2xe83ozjUJdjTYgCEu8q-IdDHRV2oukllLGh8L4gVRltzopgMgxzR1R2uuy5SUdVRkMr5mC8u-G3=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhsEZewoQaa5ZoQadeYebKM5oLFYI4iZUT0mqaspqJUR7dtH8TEDz3PQwk6U0O1E3ZosXHBLf1gn0R6ywFTkUVYolm9dNRXsqmCw_SD5iiT66aA2xe83ozjUJdjTYgCEu8q-IdDHRV2oukllLGh8L4gVRltzopgMgxzR1R2uuy5SUdVRkMr5mC8u-G3=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhg4jopUeM81Mfku3kG7RyzV8TixrsPDL-cn8AHu2K1R2XZrq_kbQK3gAdC90K_Ymn31CLaK9zDutlvI8Af28r1MT0cX2vjMcl2Xo9McZ_5hqzDgdzpoTE0ksL5pN8cbpexOQhwyF9b9LNUNKLZ4lvdCz1tno1ko83Lo1lGXTGT1r2tAcYwcHqzYFHf=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhg4jopUeM81Mfku3kG7RyzV8TixrsPDL-cn8AHu2K1R2XZrq_kbQK3gAdC90K_Ymn31CLaK9zDutlvI8Af28r1MT0cX2vjMcl2Xo9McZ_5hqzDgdzpoTE0ksL5pN8cbpexOQhwyF9b9LNUNKLZ4lvdCz1tno1ko83Lo1lGXTGT1r2tAcYwcHqzYFHf=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>This snowfall came with brutal temps so the outside play may have been few, but that means we come in for mugs of hot cocoa, which I enjoy making from the Hershey’s recipe on the cocoa container. I also add a handful of marshmallows to melt in the cocoa on the stove and then top with even more fluffy marshmallows in the mug! Perfect to sip while watching a movie. Later I had a deliciously fresh cup of my favorite Starbuck Christmas blend coffee in one of my favorite mugs, my brother Taylor brought home for me from Washington D.C. There’s nothing like warm sippers in hand and cozy blankets to snuggle under on snow days!</p><p>In these cozy pictures you’ll still see our Christmas trees still up from Christmas, but now we have everything put away at this point except a few twinkle lights to liven up the long winter nights. I’ve learned that gives me joy!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXuOYrySsR6nVD-hnz4_lXyvVEJUuV8ictuiE9Gbw2_mEVsVROaU2tIIY_XFwczQmlw84KHao1tiOnQwX_QpDoQCyFPEgALi9Txw6hsarhlosJTDMwHN4ihnz613gw6fD8JrgiG3rbcFL0cNOOYRV__WlWSLWn32_HjO_KsYUniESlxCSWiOJmHY9o=s1897" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1423" data-original-width="1897" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXuOYrySsR6nVD-hnz4_lXyvVEJUuV8ictuiE9Gbw2_mEVsVROaU2tIIY_XFwczQmlw84KHao1tiOnQwX_QpDoQCyFPEgALi9Txw6hsarhlosJTDMwHN4ihnz613gw6fD8JrgiG3rbcFL0cNOOYRV__WlWSLWn32_HjO_KsYUniESlxCSWiOJmHY9o=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>I’m so glad the Christmas trees were still up so we could enjoy the snowfall and the twinkling lights together! We rarely ever get December snowfalls like this, although I remember vividly a few Christmas snows growing up.. the last was the year we married in 2004. It felt like a perfect Christmas miracle! </p><p>I gathered the kids and read to them a new precious book my sister gifted them for Chrismas about Jesus. They played while I read. I don’t read to them all as much as I used to or as much as I would like to, but when I do it warms my heart so much! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYGCdJQFJD3aSugzgFwxp6raah08hqbXbVNFQzTFuFohcgoqmQBUZPxfoT4OA0el7_j5mqa4_K4z9YllnyE0vOoFXjHkuBXcf2f_WrQSukQRYS5cRgcmP7ogWIPpoZhL7N6JRHPISVE-fVI7XWbXsD_BCF8KDDsWxw9VQFSgEtmVqxKfrrVHuA2wZU=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYGCdJQFJD3aSugzgFwxp6raah08hqbXbVNFQzTFuFohcgoqmQBUZPxfoT4OA0el7_j5mqa4_K4z9YllnyE0vOoFXjHkuBXcf2f_WrQSukQRYS5cRgcmP7ogWIPpoZhL7N6JRHPISVE-fVI7XWbXsD_BCF8KDDsWxw9VQFSgEtmVqxKfrrVHuA2wZU=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyBkeZXVByz3gGg_UjIJSKUPP5V1YtcnadK3jJnYS_5_r_LiGIweMIUTqk-QZmVWxhqS4UnfcmyKKQdpGC0AzWd1GBdFsTwrUPyf54RY7ShTmvIYhG_qqFvtzYVn8oGE_GqP0bCa2yU3wXPt6AWLE_8tKhH7oBjZEdjQ96MBbp8M_D-wZZM7Y83vqW=s1951" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1951" data-original-width="1477" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyBkeZXVByz3gGg_UjIJSKUPP5V1YtcnadK3jJnYS_5_r_LiGIweMIUTqk-QZmVWxhqS4UnfcmyKKQdpGC0AzWd1GBdFsTwrUPyf54RY7ShTmvIYhG_qqFvtzYVn8oGE_GqP0bCa2yU3wXPt6AWLE_8tKhH7oBjZEdjQ96MBbp8M_D-wZZM7Y83vqW=w484-h640" width="484" /></a></div><br /><p>The following day I awoke to a glistening white outside, and I knew I absolutely had to bundle up and get back in the frosty snow globe of a world. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzyD3WmpEz55B0JfRZL3cLmh3LVrPj0CuSA--QgOZONSg9awjyLwNc3deKlq6svKO5t7jzu1C_FrMeFbvZlgwrr1kf2cIEIGcH6N3o94dcDbG5KFt2zuq1TYxiuBf9rSym8-dpwShjCKzkUYBYL1pooWsPL-sql7xwPofbo00xd4hyk1XdVwGjg31L=s1924" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1443" data-original-width="1924" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzyD3WmpEz55B0JfRZL3cLmh3LVrPj0CuSA--QgOZONSg9awjyLwNc3deKlq6svKO5t7jzu1C_FrMeFbvZlgwrr1kf2cIEIGcH6N3o94dcDbG5KFt2zuq1TYxiuBf9rSym8-dpwShjCKzkUYBYL1pooWsPL-sql7xwPofbo00xd4hyk1XdVwGjg31L=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>The sun made the snow crunch under our feet!</p><p>Rosemary and I played in our yard while the big kids snow boarded down the neighborhood hill nearby. We had such a good time!! </p><p>My big two probably walked up that hill a dozen times or more so they came back in cold, tired and wanted to zone out on the couch with a movie.</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCv3y3zZALRmrSIElKypvW96p9Khyjhoqv2w0zaSsUjgB_ZNog81HNsqNtiEUvhwrWLnl3g_DANiU_1leSoCaffOVLSCCgUwijm1dFJHVXvfkzNmJ47oCToUz35FDQ-cfHS-QGoHi-KzxZhD1EDwMikk49DQ8s1XPjaA-Xuj_n1EcyWj8YFLjlKsnR=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCv3y3zZALRmrSIElKypvW96p9Khyjhoqv2w0zaSsUjgB_ZNog81HNsqNtiEUvhwrWLnl3g_DANiU_1leSoCaffOVLSCCgUwijm1dFJHVXvfkzNmJ47oCToUz35FDQ-cfHS-QGoHi-KzxZhD1EDwMikk49DQ8s1XPjaA-Xuj_n1EcyWj8YFLjlKsnR=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3Dgii4CMksDzAyl2kOm8eRRHBdy-MDGOyLM8xN-kbGeDpIjzytzMyUW8aMB2rUwVpfB9Xyqx6vTM1WHmD0Ffakw3OQNsACtZqp236LVOXN3tIQ8xOsnlSwJYXgK814gGpctdRRPsMql9OTvxXw5NVk6rMCEkMLZuTu8ZSjq_YRW58M_dewVUELvhx=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3Dgii4CMksDzAyl2kOm8eRRHBdy-MDGOyLM8xN-kbGeDpIjzytzMyUW8aMB2rUwVpfB9Xyqx6vTM1WHmD0Ffakw3OQNsACtZqp236LVOXN3tIQ8xOsnlSwJYXgK814gGpctdRRPsMql9OTvxXw5NVk6rMCEkMLZuTu8ZSjq_YRW58M_dewVUELvhx=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Being this is only the second or third measurable snowfall since we lived in this house, I’m still in awe of how pretty everything looks. The edges of the reflective pond were frozen while the rest were smooth as glass, as you can see.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">In the surrounding woods, every single branch and limb, highlighted. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Our home looks dreamy dressed in winter white, so I had to snap some pictures to remember just how pretty she looks!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnnM6Se91v-LftcDLPLcHTZ-oyhJIEbxUcdWgwsN4LhnF7ECD-Qq_1KiRTuhkPhXqnhK_HdkGLKgfzgSJJGXZOokVDS7JyQrEvTix49Xq1yLd3LfgQ-5tnt9msw0XYk7B1ZQmpIgbZwxYfTcAVgw7x7A37CO0z40Inu-JQmdFH4WwtFGzaQe1PqsgE=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnnM6Se91v-LftcDLPLcHTZ-oyhJIEbxUcdWgwsN4LhnF7ECD-Qq_1KiRTuhkPhXqnhK_HdkGLKgfzgSJJGXZOokVDS7JyQrEvTix49Xq1yLd3LfgQ-5tnt9msw0XYk7B1ZQmpIgbZwxYfTcAVgw7x7A37CO0z40Inu-JQmdFH4WwtFGzaQe1PqsgE=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbem5go-YiS-1hHLkGu1PE2KckFW-9zF558ulVLOdcKgaAhS78yGE2ATVRD5-1pP-8XKF1z--2yF-4QQiBJjFpN-PTOs_kjzPpSx7ltjfn11Lys0TqawovGvUGvOqlrCyzFdJYZz2IRkD6FkSIG6J6tkStkiK1Ch4bzNy9GJyfOWieVoX7Xpf40S6W=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbem5go-YiS-1hHLkGu1PE2KckFW-9zF558ulVLOdcKgaAhS78yGE2ATVRD5-1pP-8XKF1z--2yF-4QQiBJjFpN-PTOs_kjzPpSx7ltjfn11Lys0TqawovGvUGvOqlrCyzFdJYZz2IRkD6FkSIG6J6tkStkiK1Ch4bzNy9GJyfOWieVoX7Xpf40S6W=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To cap off an already exciting week, we took the kids to the movies to see Sing 2 the following day once the roads were fine to travel on, and we had a sweet “date night” with our kids, which we haven’t done in months! Cheesy Pagliai’s Pizza was devoured in our favorite corner booth after the movie and then a visit to my my grandparents’ home in town topped off the night with extra joy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It really has been a very full and busy month, but this new year, so far, has been <i>abundant in the Lord’s favor and blessings on our family</i>! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The busy hasn’t been stressful like it can be sometimes, but instead it’s been refreshing~all good things. Have we had changes to adjust to? Yes, definitely! But also I’ve carved out time with some of my favorite people, that’s been long over-due because of different factors over the course of the last 12-18 months. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Many of you know I have taken a break from social media. It’s not only helped me focus to get everything done but enjoy it all to the full and be completely present!! I needed to simplify some things for a bit and for me that starts with the clutter I carry in my mind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really want to remember this peaceful season and listen to all the Lord is speaking to me. He is speaking, and moving, and in our family He is redeeming what the locusts had eaten in the previous year!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">His great faithfulness is like the morning sun!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOhQgolkpUGVtHcbqcNJqdANo9PcWciC34mJfEunCawr7-uMc6KBUozdtSFgjn5xy4UjBL7dUDQsTvg4y1aNWgqn8Gexdfaklzj4Ir3IjEi2sDKXiffa6MW23XoUIOqXkNE2ktkmlskbHI-RaQoiLokhbbY-08lqSH7TAUCZqM_RI5eK16htoUHPDh=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOhQgolkpUGVtHcbqcNJqdANo9PcWciC34mJfEunCawr7-uMc6KBUozdtSFgjn5xy4UjBL7dUDQsTvg4y1aNWgqn8Gexdfaklzj4Ir3IjEi2sDKXiffa6MW23XoUIOqXkNE2ktkmlskbHI-RaQoiLokhbbY-08lqSH7TAUCZqM_RI5eK16htoUHPDh=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br />Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-72357622408886271462021-10-30T09:08:00.011-05:002021-10-30T10:42:11.770-05:00 Favorite Recipe Repost! Chocolate Chippy Pumpkin Bread<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Z7_Xd1nOaiYoQV7oPMuAZvDzLnYX6fqXiwEW_FCLjN3gIFACnd8qb4QxwUuRkS8BhbnzncbnNTX-Mghxkxhj3vjtd_vuiu-FhL39MUADa2P32Z1Vzw8oMre6BmHyUgQmNR9gWZD0eiQ/s2016/0FAB188E-0670-447D-95CC-12DCECE722D6.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Z7_Xd1nOaiYoQV7oPMuAZvDzLnYX6fqXiwEW_FCLjN3gIFACnd8qb4QxwUuRkS8BhbnzncbnNTX-Mghxkxhj3vjtd_vuiu-FhL39MUADa2P32Z1Vzw8oMre6BmHyUgQmNR9gWZD0eiQ/w480-h640/0FAB188E-0670-447D-95CC-12DCECE722D6.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My favorite time of the year has arrived! Autumn is full-blown here in the Kentucky countryside, and with the cusp of my birthday, along with the beloved Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons—there is just something extra-special in the air even amidst the strange year we’ve all had. Some things never change, and it’s good to be able to focus on the simplicity of these things now more than ever! Like the rising sun, the changing seasons actually bring comfort as the Lord has established them, and I’m reminded again that He is in control. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of comfort, there’s nothing quite like the homey fragrance of bread baking in the oven! Every autumn, this pumpkin chip loaf is my favorite quick bread to make, as I’ve made it dozens of times over the last decade, and we never tire of it! It’s the Goose Berry Patch <u>Autumn In the Country</u> recipe that has become a tried and true for our family. When my kids ask for chocolate chip pumpkin bread, this is the one I make! Spiced with cinnamon, laced with chocolate and full of pumpkin, this treat really hits the spot—especially with a cup of steaming coffee!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL31BYYRattXm4eouel2U9eW6W2oDFE09D3HsPx3IRYleGi4PwLRaxkHu_nHmoqJMOidKzcotPd64KRkfIQqRAVXSN7P8hOUGKKYjc7DLHeaNYoaQQb_g9TtAposWcOTKfl_464AXBrl8/s2016/94FDBABF-3B47-449C-B345-2933FF6D707E.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL31BYYRattXm4eouel2U9eW6W2oDFE09D3HsPx3IRYleGi4PwLRaxkHu_nHmoqJMOidKzcotPd64KRkfIQqRAVXSN7P8hOUGKKYjc7DLHeaNYoaQQb_g9TtAposWcOTKfl_464AXBrl8/w480-h640/94FDBABF-3B47-449C-B345-2933FF6D707E.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you’re a long-time follower of my blog, you may remember me actually blogging this very recipe under <a href="http://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/10/cozy-chocolate-chippy-pumpkin-bread.html">Chocolate Chippy Pumpkin Bread </a>10 years ago when we lived in the “little house on the prairie” in Madisonville, KY! I had tweaked that recipe a bit, but today I’m sharing with you the original recipe from the cookbook, which is now how I made is pretty much every time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s not only consistently good, but it makes two loaves. I usually keep the chocolate chips out of one loaf (though not always) and give that loaf to a neighbor, friend, parents— whomever we want to bless that day. Of course, sometimes keeping both loaves is the best idea, and you can easily freeze one for later!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbpk9GMvIjIqWTTm0mAVIoKa2Xi08i1hOnQMNf3BDoydq3I1YgkRS6wnjlzucWHIhZG1sG12UBJ73rDnAW4UDPJD6io8qc8dKrUSj-MQVI3p8fK5L2zS9JNX6Gwvp3N9p8GE5H42RByg/s2016/C7F7AF08-A0D4-4FCD-A48E-5241FFF8D483.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbpk9GMvIjIqWTTm0mAVIoKa2Xi08i1hOnQMNf3BDoydq3I1YgkRS6wnjlzucWHIhZG1sG12UBJ73rDnAW4UDPJD6io8qc8dKrUSj-MQVI3p8fK5L2zS9JNX6Gwvp3N9p8GE5H42RByg/w480-h640/C7F7AF08-A0D4-4FCD-A48E-5241FFF8D483.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have thrown in delicious additions such as butterscotch chips, walnuts, pecans, dried cranberries over the years, for a twist on plain pumpkin bread, but my kids’ always want the chocolate chips…I don’t blame them there! Chopped pecans are just as yummy, in my opinion!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you want an easy treat to throw together for a cozy after-school snack or breakfast, or even dessert, I hope you will try this delicious pumpkin bread! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the mornings become frostier outside, the breakfasts get warmer inside, and the smell of cinnamon and pumpkin is a great way to wake the rest of my family up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNykY_vShWg0eNvBkd3P-2WZrOTwX3GP327O-CJ9KP0BzTcuwDZ5TgmSRDAhrmWh3kXC0Ewas-EN2ws4P8_mCC8cDuhHhc87y_u_RQ3CrhyphenhyphenUd8xXkUhcEnuQCEDiAETxl8G1kHeq7Qi0/s2016/38C8427F-C71B-492A-B07C-B8D60DFFBDB2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNykY_vShWg0eNvBkd3P-2WZrOTwX3GP327O-CJ9KP0BzTcuwDZ5TgmSRDAhrmWh3kXC0Ewas-EN2ws4P8_mCC8cDuhHhc87y_u_RQ3CrhyphenhyphenUd8xXkUhcEnuQCEDiAETxl8G1kHeq7Qi0/w480-h640/38C8427F-C71B-492A-B07C-B8D60DFFBDB2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Chocolate Chippy Pumpkin Bread</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 c. All-purpose flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 t. Baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 t. Salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 t. Cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 Eggs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 c. Sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">15-oz. can pumpkin</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1- 1/4 c. Canola oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1- 1/2 c. Semi-sweet chocolate chips (sometimes I use mini chips)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Combine flour, baking, salt, cinnamon in a large bowl; set aside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beat together eggs, sugar, pumpkin, and oil in a large bowl; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fold in chocolate chips; pour into two, greased loaf pans. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick tests clean. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cool for 10 minutes before removing to wire racks to finish cooling. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Makes 2 loaves.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zKVER10JiRmoLoFm7utOHXbVInEiN1pjstanu6pZiTg-7ObC1uubtZhSOsPwllLVW4bx2ptIsVNhbnVHrWup75BtS9OkPjupHcNxHgdgJHQuDl_446HSq2YG_1yo-xkKyaUxQoSad1c/s2016/04A1211F-5272-41D1-9CBF-8D400F6280D9.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zKVER10JiRmoLoFm7utOHXbVInEiN1pjstanu6pZiTg-7ObC1uubtZhSOsPwllLVW4bx2ptIsVNhbnVHrWup75BtS9OkPjupHcNxHgdgJHQuDl_446HSq2YG_1yo-xkKyaUxQoSad1c/w480-h640/04A1211F-5272-41D1-9CBF-8D400F6280D9.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With the leaves changing colors outside and the temperature just perfect with extra crisp mornings, I’ve been sipping my second cup of coffee outside on the porch or on the swing most mornings this week!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCf7SWgCsIriyqFDL4b5sDWihKg_QHE3zDM93kL8sLcFDpWb_GZwEjFZJiRZ9RDDOBZLAg8oWrR0lAH11lMsYt22QvnqxrxYOPyNziTk4xFv1PcBuQtAmyL0T_aBvU4ceJWePEgmskxM/s2016/BA0B801F-5E58-4B77-96E1-D40F6928C1F3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCf7SWgCsIriyqFDL4b5sDWihKg_QHE3zDM93kL8sLcFDpWb_GZwEjFZJiRZ9RDDOBZLAg8oWrR0lAH11lMsYt22QvnqxrxYOPyNziTk4xFv1PcBuQtAmyL0T_aBvU4ceJWePEgmskxM/w480-h640/BA0B801F-5E58-4B77-96E1-D40F6928C1F3.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This photo of Kylie at the pond was taken last week, and the leaves on the trees have really turned since then! As you can tell, we are trying to enjoy the outside weather on the pretty days. Today is actually a gloomy and misty day here, but the blue skied days have been extra clear as the humidity has moved out!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In Kentucky the crisp air that means it’s the perfect time for a bonfire and hayride. It’s time to get out the sweatshirts, sweaters, cardigans, scarves and boots! Cider, s’mores, chili and cornbread and all the coziness fall offers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURtP6OfhavGzP5WLwF_qBOlAvpNKN-TY9xKl1GIzavOVnqSZY_OvQdcKeZ1cG9mSmj6Eexz6T1qaJMMNbhOLtGuy1un55W7wjD-IT6SYtLFWK3m0ECNSDv3fTMTL4JvZXsqYQad8q1iU/s2016/6F9C8542-53B3-4493-9371-E882B4C4F134.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURtP6OfhavGzP5WLwF_qBOlAvpNKN-TY9xKl1GIzavOVnqSZY_OvQdcKeZ1cG9mSmj6Eexz6T1qaJMMNbhOLtGuy1un55W7wjD-IT6SYtLFWK3m0ECNSDv3fTMTL4JvZXsqYQad8q1iU/w480-h640/6F9C8542-53B3-4493-9371-E882B4C4F134.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our leaves will be at peak color in just a couple days now, and we have a full, fun weekend planned with out family to look forward to!!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope everyone has a beautiful weekend on the last couple days of October and stays safe. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you in November!!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span> <span> </span></span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-5193201461100121372021-10-01T22:06:00.006-05:002021-10-01T22:20:51.711-05:00Gooey and Delicious S’mores Bars<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-4GvkhBQ4uiszLMxP2BguXY-LaqaWTINfRK8i7l-XDV51Kj1vArWSiOencUVDGZ99oNYZSM_JtnG5ymaQWIQFxlacVGi760EqUPAdTVQFMN1YdmPzhmyU_tTu_BwAjUvrfvRoMiggf4/s2048/5E8672EB-8600-4554-8AEE-AD226236C094.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1820" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-4GvkhBQ4uiszLMxP2BguXY-LaqaWTINfRK8i7l-XDV51Kj1vArWSiOencUVDGZ99oNYZSM_JtnG5ymaQWIQFxlacVGi760EqUPAdTVQFMN1YdmPzhmyU_tTu_BwAjUvrfvRoMiggf4/w568-h640/5E8672EB-8600-4554-8AEE-AD226236C094.jpeg" width="568" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy October!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost two months since my last post here, but life has been a bit wild the last several weeks of summer. Let’s just say that I am very thankful to begin a brand new month and season—one of my favorites—Autumn!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wanted to share with you the easy and <i>delicious</i> S’mores Bars I made today! These are similar to the amazing bars my sister, Faith, makes and a bit different from the ones I made years ago. I’ve always thought Faith’s bars were some of the best and my kids gobbles them up when she makes them for our family gatherings, so I was excited to try these out today.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWhxaZrcee69bzOrzB67Kknl2JOwlty_9hi-6HtHZfh6ONu3NKjz4xO_scF5U0HyMVbwENNy19SsTgx0_8njPe8qwQmmEFyfwjP65REWULYq9b7YQWHABkFxwHta8CP_4vx8yqyt7Vdo/s2016/302006E2-361F-4CC3-8B56-F39763D6FFFD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWhxaZrcee69bzOrzB67Kknl2JOwlty_9hi-6HtHZfh6ONu3NKjz4xO_scF5U0HyMVbwENNy19SsTgx0_8njPe8qwQmmEFyfwjP65REWULYq9b7YQWHABkFxwHta8CP_4vx8yqyt7Vdo/w480-h640/302006E2-361F-4CC3-8B56-F39763D6FFFD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As today closes out the kid’s first semester of school, which has felt a bit grueling for this mama, I wanted to celebrate in some way. We aren’t taking any trips this break, but I thought we could have some staycation fun at home and in the area! The weather is supposed to be nice next week, but not so much this weekend. My plans for a bonfire with s’mores was ruined with the downpour of rain that came all afternoon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the other hand, the putter patter of rain and rumbling thunder lent itself to the coziest of homes with my candles burning and coffee flowing, so I decided to “pivot” my plans and make s’mores <i>bars</i> for dessert! No bonfire required for the classic combination of graham crackers, chocolate and gooey toasted marshmallows. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To be tucked in my kitchen’s baking nook is the coziest spot in the house when it’s a rainy day, and that brings me great joy! I gladly pulled the ingredients out, a bowl and spoon and the pan and got to work! Oh, and I can’t forget the cozy instrumental music to complete the mood. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will say, these bars are best eaten the same day because the marshmallows tend to get tough after too long. To eat a piece warm out of the oven is the very the best time! I snuck a piece for myself while the kids had their quiet time, and I made a steaming cup of Mexican coffee to sip with it. While thunder was rolling was rolling, wind picked up outside and the torrential rain was much more than I expected, I felt very blessed and safe inside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anybody can put these delicious s’mores bars together and your kids might even like to help! Hope you get a chance to make these if your bonfire gets rained out or if you want s’mores for a small crowd!… they will satisfy your craving for sure!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><ul><li style="text-align: left;"><b>S’mores Bars</b></li></ul></ul><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 c. Sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 c. Butter, melted</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 egg</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 tsp. Vanilla extract</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 1/4 c. Graham cracker crumbs, divided (I crushed them myself.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 c. All-purpose flour</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. Baking powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 tsp. Salt</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2 c. Mini marshmallows</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 3/4 c. Semi-sweet chocolate chips</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Heat Oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 13x9 inch baking pan with baking spray; set aside.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla in a bowl; mix well. Add <i>1 cup </i>graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt; stir until just combined. Press evenly in the prepared pan.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicbK9F4eQ41c2_Jzcsw1yFdDGFdUBtYYFzyIRS3wLtFHvPhcnLSshlpyTYQ2Lbr8HDp4adb7pI56F2BJqwCyou4pL-dZyVl3daxxjjbFTLEMRv20FEKChloE3UD9zAsxKFpya0N8rUEaY/s2016/D2C8AD05-307A-491F-AEA5-D93E2BE3B356.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicbK9F4eQ41c2_Jzcsw1yFdDGFdUBtYYFzyIRS3wLtFHvPhcnLSshlpyTYQ2Lbr8HDp4adb7pI56F2BJqwCyou4pL-dZyVl3daxxjjbFTLEMRv20FEKChloE3UD9zAsxKFpya0N8rUEaY/w480-h640/D2C8AD05-307A-491F-AEA5-D93E2BE3B356.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Bake for 8 minutes. When removed from the oven, sprinkle onto partially baked crust the marshmallows, chocolate chips, and remaining 1/4 c. Graham cracker crumbs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zdU7rlG2lOMfoIbJiWnnZ2zVKOAkLxtGnUYEwYCptlTNSBGUXRe5Gm9_FJ8fJA9zdvGjIzurqgNnCL6X_GCEwYgcWa-gcsGJMsBPkKgLCIuWj_Yzeih-LYo4XDIiDNWMryJxLyyR_Wo/s2016/0C5134BC-9765-4C33-9C55-00D9F39F1025.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zdU7rlG2lOMfoIbJiWnnZ2zVKOAkLxtGnUYEwYCptlTNSBGUXRe5Gm9_FJ8fJA9zdvGjIzurqgNnCL6X_GCEwYgcWa-gcsGJMsBPkKgLCIuWj_Yzeih-LYo4XDIiDNWMryJxLyyR_Wo/w480-h640/0C5134BC-9765-4C33-9C55-00D9F39F1025.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDQXWGjYdzWOP8iYJ8BJbiBJiFb-WUaLWAMTnT9HegEBB7cc-rsgRjbu0DX5Z2WBPwfPnTfMyaHm7oXJmYRgeaAf9w5Bw3P_td7o68fTwHS_0gE6NcyeQgHsHL20Qbdqq6PwrpQPwUZI/s2016/8662B57C-2F2D-40A3-BB11-B967AB6F8E7D.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDQXWGjYdzWOP8iYJ8BJbiBJiFb-WUaLWAMTnT9HegEBB7cc-rsgRjbu0DX5Z2WBPwfPnTfMyaHm7oXJmYRgeaAf9w5Bw3P_td7o68fTwHS_0gE6NcyeQgHsHL20Qbdqq6PwrpQPwUZI/w480-h640/8662B57C-2F2D-40A3-BB11-B967AB6F8E7D.jpeg" width="480" /></a></blockquote></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Continue baking 5-10 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown. I added Hershey’s pips to the top once out of the oven to give it the quintessential s’mores look to me! In my opinion, enjoy a piece while it’s still very warm with a glass of cold milk or strong coffee!</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><p></p></blockquote><p><br /></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCoU6umX-aY0xKQpCK4nqwzukHYZCmAKxYEr-23030Ey3A1sFdpQaxRLkSfAJz82KBHrTF2Lqw7F1WrrabX3geoI-8FRDAh0nM2OW56vvtdSfMWveIRqQ2AxCGXhWIZz8Zt01rVlpK2c/s2016/323054A6-FA6C-4F6B-B08A-281B3E5EFE49.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCoU6umX-aY0xKQpCK4nqwzukHYZCmAKxYEr-23030Ey3A1sFdpQaxRLkSfAJz82KBHrTF2Lqw7F1WrrabX3geoI-8FRDAh0nM2OW56vvtdSfMWveIRqQ2AxCGXhWIZz8Zt01rVlpK2c/w480-h640/323054A6-FA6C-4F6B-B08A-281B3E5EFE49.jpeg" width="480" /></a></blockquote></blockquote><p><br /></p><p>To find joy in the everyday things is a gift. A good recipe, the time and love I put in baking for my people, and the enjoyment of each bite is a small but wonderful pleasure I hope to pass onto you in these simple, delicious recipes.</p><p>Hope you have the best weekend!!!</p><p><br /></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHvsQCEJrPY5NMZJh0ISzUKpSpODuPIQ35RfDVfmBV-T8HaRhoyz_RwJuMPvnmyumMaxWOorpCCJDGH51gV20-fdxfB6XDXNh62IkGxmr9zbK215buL0SMa7mJjhkQ4whMUk2c6-Q9eg/s2016/3E0E55E9-6149-437C-8301-3680DCC492F2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHvsQCEJrPY5NMZJh0ISzUKpSpODuPIQ35RfDVfmBV-T8HaRhoyz_RwJuMPvnmyumMaxWOorpCCJDGH51gV20-fdxfB6XDXNh62IkGxmr9zbK215buL0SMa7mJjhkQ4whMUk2c6-Q9eg/w480-h640/3E0E55E9-6149-437C-8301-3680DCC492F2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><p></p></blockquote></blockquote><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-79651997578566004352021-08-10T20:32:00.001-05:002021-08-12T06:56:25.117-05:00A Cozy Tea Party!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-o-yuVX2HNaHZPFd3NdPkOTDggd42bKwaN3v4dHKaj8RPDSRXjfyG1o5ppvr2DaoTKij8VJrpErPbqBw_krgt25Ie60w9hEoM694-ql46W1R3BFhMM3bDpyWpKNCZpFZzsG2SCPqbzo/s1544/6A4D8608-0F3D-414B-A2CB-82EC97AF6886.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-o-yuVX2HNaHZPFd3NdPkOTDggd42bKwaN3v4dHKaj8RPDSRXjfyG1o5ppvr2DaoTKij8VJrpErPbqBw_krgt25Ie60w9hEoM694-ql46W1R3BFhMM3bDpyWpKNCZpFZzsG2SCPqbzo/w480-h640/6A4D8608-0F3D-414B-A2CB-82EC97AF6886.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had the honor in mid- July to do something that became one of the highlights of my summer! I was asked to host a lovely “tea party” for the young women of our youth group as a part of a special weekend retreat they were participating in. There was no doubt in my mind that I would say “yes”.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am passionate over few things more than:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(1.) loving on fellow women and young women who are the next generation of our church. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(2.) Anything related to adding beauty in our lives by simple pleasures, such as tea parties, sipping from lovely china, eating delicious food and sharing in feminine and exquisite things. I firmly believe lovely things as this are a reflection of our Creator’s attention to the detail in our lives. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(3.) Sharing our own home as a gathering place.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(4.) Greatest of all— serving Him wherever He calls me and bringing others into the light of His love!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdqx4FWcbEohqNdq8jFljW_mbBvvBEFi9K4JdVsu9oxnTAlOA-4fNfxHRJwaTLiCmEoLQMjcIToxxSNQId88QaoWvKIWPdyNx9vJ3eZ3CjroFdNVLy6j-2vRtmD2PGW7B2iAGDrY_sT4/s2016/9E384DAD-536A-4412-96E0-A60C5A2EF260.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdqx4FWcbEohqNdq8jFljW_mbBvvBEFi9K4JdVsu9oxnTAlOA-4fNfxHRJwaTLiCmEoLQMjcIToxxSNQId88QaoWvKIWPdyNx9vJ3eZ3CjroFdNVLy6j-2vRtmD2PGW7B2iAGDrY_sT4/w480-h640/9E384DAD-536A-4412-96E0-A60C5A2EF260.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This tea party was to reflect the effort and attention of our loving Heavenly Father has brought to each one of us! I believe my part was more than just offering a space, but to <i>prepare.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We are fearfully and wonderfully made, and throughout the Bible God gives us examples of how He loves us by preparing for us!…</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">David says in Psalms that God <i>prepares</i> a table before me in the presence of our enemies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Jesus Himself said before ascending that He is going to go and <i>prepare</i> a place for us in Heaven! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We want to look like our Father, and so we too prepare! Our hearts needs to be prepared first and foremost. He wants a clean and pure heart after Him. Then I believe we prepare outwardly for others, out of love, as He does. Preparing requires planning, throughtfulness, and time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Psalm 139, Psalm 23, John 14:3</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zo69caiYkMptdt2dnFfXfVnAYD_dn8WEAKwKASXJcXJ6Rr1pbc8Ny1kVH_mKyPmZPQsFKyMRQEU9acPCsxNgxF5AHKwt6OzRGrSf7oyTf-Ru2UHnhEPL2XzncLcajDSa3tf-HeD0itI/s1867/C6DDA07C-E0E2-42E2-AEED-9A28047BC654.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1867" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zo69caiYkMptdt2dnFfXfVnAYD_dn8WEAKwKASXJcXJ6Rr1pbc8Ny1kVH_mKyPmZPQsFKyMRQEU9acPCsxNgxF5AHKwt6OzRGrSf7oyTf-Ru2UHnhEPL2XzncLcajDSa3tf-HeD0itI/w640-h518/C6DDA07C-E0E2-42E2-AEED-9A28047BC654.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, I prepared!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I began with prayer! I prayed over the whole evening weeks in advance and for the young ladies who would be there. I prayed for the leaders behind this special weekend retreat who were bringing them and pouring into them as Titus 2 women.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I prepared by deep cleaning my home—for after the many months of all of us living here together it was needing a good deep clean!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I sat on the floor for two hours and cleaned our Mahogany antique table and chairs. I first vacuumed all the crumbed in and around the cushions, and then I scrubbed the cushions and peeled off the play-doe and old food stuck in all the grooves. Carefully I washed the wood and then shined it with a wood polish. The chairs, the table top, and even the delicate legs until they gleamed! It was the first time in many, many years that I have deep cleaned this table and chairs, and they looked almost as good as new, despite some nicks and scratches I couldn’t buff out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was ready for company and gleaming afterward!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9KQLiKhEnNSjJN1D0bYqBKcDbopLATn5fCmYe0XfcJEHQKi1A-tcDzZaxn5UFwRIwCEv0VIXVOCgRsdsJPx7IFuH-i3TmCEtYCD5aOPJoeo9G04iPGChyphenhyphenhiv1tDctJXVy2muECR87tJY/s2016/25525670-DFA3-4CCC-9D37-DFE95719156C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9KQLiKhEnNSjJN1D0bYqBKcDbopLATn5fCmYe0XfcJEHQKi1A-tcDzZaxn5UFwRIwCEv0VIXVOCgRsdsJPx7IFuH-i3TmCEtYCD5aOPJoeo9G04iPGChyphenhyphenhiv1tDctJXVy2muECR87tJY/w480-h640/25525670-DFA3-4CCC-9D37-DFE95719156C.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Washed the tables cloths and ironed them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ironed the napkins and folded them, and I ironed them crisp again. They weren’t perfect, but I gave it my best! To bring out the iron these days is truly as occasion in itself. ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My wonderful mom and husband helped over a couple days time to get the kids out of the house so that I had extra time to get these tedious jobs accomplished in a much quicker time!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I went out to my flower gardens, and I picked lots of flowers that were distributed in vases for the tables and around the kitchen—all around the house. I also brought some flowers and greenery at Kroger that I mixed into some of the arrangements. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hydrangeas, black eyed Susans, and zinnias came from our property. My go-to decoration for years for any occasion is flowers! As you will see in the pictures, I experimented with where each arrangement would land, but I try to keep vases low, narrow or clear glass for the table which is the best for conversation. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KbiGF2tQxmEAO9nY3tetQNAL9sYcvy14pTPIQuGO6C7yS2g0zrJ07ntPmvofJNxTUl3LYhyphenhyphenF5xNA0jV56CKwLnvW0XnNEyodjNn9JyIN-ZEXEmvEm_oZW49rTP2YF6xbQwekVxG0Gcg/s2016/569474C1-476C-4EC2-83B4-6D7DC0CAA4B3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KbiGF2tQxmEAO9nY3tetQNAL9sYcvy14pTPIQuGO6C7yS2g0zrJ07ntPmvofJNxTUl3LYhyphenhyphenF5xNA0jV56CKwLnvW0XnNEyodjNn9JyIN-ZEXEmvEm_oZW49rTP2YF6xbQwekVxG0Gcg/w640-h480/569474C1-476C-4EC2-83B4-6D7DC0CAA4B3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got out all of my china dishes and washed them all. I also got out my crystal goblets and washed them. Same with the serving pieces. Most of these aren’t used enough to not wash beforehand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I borrowed! Thankfully I was able to borrow some beautiful silver flatware from my mother-in-love and more cut crystal glasses from my mom. The pretty gold flatware and various serving silver utensils, tea pots, napkins and a few other things from church friends to complete the <i>simply elegant</i> look of this party. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My husband helped me polish the silver until it gleamed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was not a paper product to be seen at this event! These girls deserved the best!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next, I began to dress the tables. Such fun! It was like my house was playing dress up! I always do this the day before an event.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtP8VZD0_QrX_bEY7f7IT4-f_oAcsSedgj06CRkIemEar5wyo7bk1Pr5omfnxX-3bHQpHDAb5-7MEJDd0tt0YMzbEsIeBW7eH-koZdsqr5TYYp_i8Tk13jiIlYuDJg1H19xA44SY8U2c/s2048/9BC09A95-FA0C-42ED-9D20-21C26140A8F1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtP8VZD0_QrX_bEY7f7IT4-f_oAcsSedgj06CRkIemEar5wyo7bk1Pr5omfnxX-3bHQpHDAb5-7MEJDd0tt0YMzbEsIeBW7eH-koZdsqr5TYYp_i8Tk13jiIlYuDJg1H19xA44SY8U2c/w480-h640/9BC09A95-FA0C-42ED-9D20-21C26140A8F1.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Three tables with three different sets of china. I thought it would be endearing and more like a tea room to have several tables all dressed differently while still coordinating.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSVQLL1Jo-8Y0lDDRz4mgULR_h44r8qLwu3HtY2Kpd_wx2CSbxATgfI_8eJmhOU0MmJMIXcAMQ5AAuJX4pCmcXE8pjxR2oiKyzt2y33PXEDgV90xw0OzODHAohvDNEuPuKjPhIor98vY/s2016/9F458620-9E0A-4501-83A1-28D989007ABF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSVQLL1Jo-8Y0lDDRz4mgULR_h44r8qLwu3HtY2Kpd_wx2CSbxATgfI_8eJmhOU0MmJMIXcAMQ5AAuJX4pCmcXE8pjxR2oiKyzt2y33PXEDgV90xw0OzODHAohvDNEuPuKjPhIor98vY/w480-h640/9F458620-9E0A-4501-83A1-28D989007ABF.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmA-s6AvB58IsVXihv8s4NyaZTftflb1bWbWb6ludVPvdWK9mTQYvBDJaBArh1KK59AenBEzLZ_Mx7CwrhH4a4uOOUBesv5oNFn7SwnlU-zpVa5Hor3n1CGglQWI4zKkOLSsB-l9ZyOvw/s2016/4B7B7AAA-D4DB-4618-9920-CECC3B675524.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmA-s6AvB58IsVXihv8s4NyaZTftflb1bWbWb6ludVPvdWK9mTQYvBDJaBArh1KK59AenBEzLZ_Mx7CwrhH4a4uOOUBesv5oNFn7SwnlU-zpVa5Hor3n1CGglQWI4zKkOLSsB-l9ZyOvw/w480-h640/4B7B7AAA-D4DB-4618-9920-CECC3B675524.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s in the details!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sweet napkins placed on the round table in old fashioned patterns of pastel flowers winding was a fun companion to my “Country Rose” china. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tiny creamers and candles twinkling. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cut crystal ready for strawberry lemonade.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lemon and sugar bowls and honey pots were later placed around. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5OW97UJ7_wyjU8NYqXD7YPqJYJb-kkZPWlorfoFb6kX8njy9GycZ4xxQSm63VDY4TQXs21POK2AWttBn8qDTSs4IRd9u4Z8DZ7XKEGGPXwb4-85rFKfgq6w7fUOOoJFpYiAJspCPjgc/s2016/230F675A-24E3-4C59-A1CC-DD2E0AF4C694.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5OW97UJ7_wyjU8NYqXD7YPqJYJb-kkZPWlorfoFb6kX8njy9GycZ4xxQSm63VDY4TQXs21POK2AWttBn8qDTSs4IRd9u4Z8DZ7XKEGGPXwb4-85rFKfgq6w7fUOOoJFpYiAJspCPjgc/w480-h640/230F675A-24E3-4C59-A1CC-DD2E0AF4C694.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIHiwwed2zEzwmQhwi9U68BXfW9CVEJas5mP2SlAJWQOTAugQoC3CKUnOeDBReyLdENfHbXuKDozxDreAuM_BlGl0Xh2ukIa1NpznoWJSKaAdVfY9OrLfTkV9Kdos7vRxVdU37ZWuHhc/s2016/DA07C340-A8D4-4B55-945C-4D5334FD762E.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIHiwwed2zEzwmQhwi9U68BXfW9CVEJas5mP2SlAJWQOTAugQoC3CKUnOeDBReyLdENfHbXuKDozxDreAuM_BlGl0Xh2ukIa1NpznoWJSKaAdVfY9OrLfTkV9Kdos7vRxVdU37ZWuHhc/w480-h640/DA07C340-A8D4-4B55-945C-4D5334FD762E.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Classic, elegant, simple and inviting. Nothing stuffy but everything planned and pretty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GtFg65_t75wMhTTscfiTlidmgJulAq9X1Kkt3bJdXSXlVe-iMGxAF688F8cYvsOGAf1TnhxVW1EhkVByrHpNJz6xLDDPXCphi8C74SMCm7x1prqbIerDGnXKSIH3EJW_qLsBE_jiAXQ/s2016/32298629-68E2-4CAE-AC7A-8A2D249A69E3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GtFg65_t75wMhTTscfiTlidmgJulAq9X1Kkt3bJdXSXlVe-iMGxAF688F8cYvsOGAf1TnhxVW1EhkVByrHpNJz6xLDDPXCphi8C74SMCm7x1prqbIerDGnXKSIH3EJW_qLsBE_jiAXQ/w480-h640/32298629-68E2-4CAE-AC7A-8A2D249A69E3.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This lace, though! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My grandmother gifted me this delicately trimmed out tablecloth many, many moons ago. It’s just the perfect size for the small oak table we brought upstairs for the tea party!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E_taacQUMaNhzWqQSl4x-c8VXkLTeQbQLON0aOai6LkrjBT0A9gfqmwTbE1c5Xp6USk3uJAsUKFAN_dZKxb5DQPkTeeQU0-ciINITO3js30mZ4o8_hrw0Ov7vQFEIARhrEHVi2jAFmo/s2016/C931E159-D87A-4FF3-9630-E7A57CBC92CF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E_taacQUMaNhzWqQSl4x-c8VXkLTeQbQLON0aOai6LkrjBT0A9gfqmwTbE1c5Xp6USk3uJAsUKFAN_dZKxb5DQPkTeeQU0-ciINITO3js30mZ4o8_hrw0Ov7vQFEIARhrEHVi2jAFmo/w480-h640/C931E159-D87A-4FF3-9630-E7A57CBC92CF.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This table cloth, I adore! It was ironed well but still pulled a bit, however the fresh green and cream combination is serene and soothing in the inky blue dining room. I knew the gold would be gorgeous in here! We went with gold accents in the dining room and silver in the kitchen. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTHgWRC5pelGveaH3uhBZU1WxZ4m9Pit9NbwI80SwaxnkKaoPvlFUNNbVkiA8R1N-1H0mot85h7TFQh2BzU4ZHtg2v5woERcuctgRc0MGxlHP_W9BrYvaXPubKmjwilt4HwfWe3gW6tM/s2016/04437AEC-864C-4A50-939C-AE2FA24B9046.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTHgWRC5pelGveaH3uhBZU1WxZ4m9Pit9NbwI80SwaxnkKaoPvlFUNNbVkiA8R1N-1H0mot85h7TFQh2BzU4ZHtg2v5woERcuctgRc0MGxlHP_W9BrYvaXPubKmjwilt4HwfWe3gW6tM/w480-h640/04437AEC-864C-4A50-939C-AE2FA24B9046.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We rearranged our dining room furniture, and I am enjoying it much more this way. I think with the table extended everyone can get around it easier with it like this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What do you think about the large new picture above the hunt board? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s very me! I LOVE it!! It looks like an old farmhouse you would see tucked away down one of the country roads around here. I think I could definitely live there!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymd7BxR5ivSOxLP7xJG0SZfgFx2uXq0Ne3zCGEkjXW2oPXchSDbUABWqtbUjHOK7issSiXYk2JMqg5j5Cej_3ubZ7uLGGGeP8rHtTkqrmC8kstNsdMwyAAbs5avxHOT-9dwpJLTTsTz8/s2016/6009F055-6D05-44C2-A41D-C2F003262E48.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymd7BxR5ivSOxLP7xJG0SZfgFx2uXq0Ne3zCGEkjXW2oPXchSDbUABWqtbUjHOK7issSiXYk2JMqg5j5Cej_3ubZ7uLGGGeP8rHtTkqrmC8kstNsdMwyAAbs5avxHOT-9dwpJLTTsTz8/w480-h640/6009F055-6D05-44C2-A41D-C2F003262E48.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our wedding China is gorgeous— still the prettiest I’ve seen! It makes me wonder why I don’t use it more often. The soft creams and golds together remind me of our wedding.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5WbBS_57ZwqR42uvoPfR8wMDLJnO8hKN1-BTPo7FgtPS71H3wOYGyiQx16YqARnrUYKjXbuvX6MrRYd6aAFelUklbzrynY-XiTQwCm8DSWDjyIeBNegzepdjCZT-gQzdTO1gO74AwDk/s2016/8B972C3E-E735-4363-959B-698E76A7F238.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5WbBS_57ZwqR42uvoPfR8wMDLJnO8hKN1-BTPo7FgtPS71H3wOYGyiQx16YqARnrUYKjXbuvX6MrRYd6aAFelUklbzrynY-XiTQwCm8DSWDjyIeBNegzepdjCZT-gQzdTO1gO74AwDk/w480-h640/8B972C3E-E735-4363-959B-698E76A7F238.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I lit candles and turned on soothing worship music.. Kari Jobe on Amazon music to play through the house and set the tone for feasting in His presence. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the excitement of it all I missed taking a picture of the tea station…but what I did is I just rearranged my coffee bar to make room for an eclectic array of teas and boiling hot water in tea pots. It was easy to access and hopefully fun for the girls!</div></div><div><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivS6mP3rir82_TwIVsNO-43sl_FqdoYK2FeOLcPDC1zpTgw8EbSdfznB6cF4eCsr1koNOu0bfkO2RwwHGosZLc7zN6X7sSz4Csc8Ig276iPatKldeo6GZB2LrlKlScUPXG-tsD_VEJcI/s2016/144FE7F5-8FC8-4AB5-8E4E-E00A135AEF4B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivS6mP3rir82_TwIVsNO-43sl_FqdoYK2FeOLcPDC1zpTgw8EbSdfznB6cF4eCsr1koNOu0bfkO2RwwHGosZLc7zN6X7sSz4Csc8Ig276iPatKldeo6GZB2LrlKlScUPXG-tsD_VEJcI/w480-h640/144FE7F5-8FC8-4AB5-8E4E-E00A135AEF4B.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was a spread of food from the best cooks and bakers in our church who dropped off their goodies beforehand. So many delicious treats that were a treat to plate up! I couldn’t wait for the girls to see it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From perfect homemade scones with cream and lemon curd, to made-from-scratch macarons, crostini, French chocolate tarts, jam cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, pinwheels, and much more to name!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had yummy teas to choose from including English breakfast, Earl gray, Oolong, Paris, fruity teas, apple chai, peppermint, and more. I let the girls pick their own tea to steep in their tea cups, which was a first for most of them! I did my best to explain how to make a cup of tea and encouraged them to try more that one kind while they were here. I think they did!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DPJLwxr23Kku3945lSiOyF_Ae4O52DROuedCGJAKZ0qWuoH3_FCKLGfTEMfO61xw_F42SpRWBESWWCoVqW2DyKhxIClX5f24P8hQEtrQX8IMlT2ulU-PoiydqMtcGF2MDd8k43r5u3E/s1544/A246F5BC-9778-4010-88B6-1888998BC980.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DPJLwxr23Kku3945lSiOyF_Ae4O52DROuedCGJAKZ0qWuoH3_FCKLGfTEMfO61xw_F42SpRWBESWWCoVqW2DyKhxIClX5f24P8hQEtrQX8IMlT2ulU-PoiydqMtcGF2MDd8k43r5u3E/w480-h640/A246F5BC-9778-4010-88B6-1888998BC980.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am so excited for it all to begin I had to capture the moment. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Did I already say how much I love Jesus, I love girl time, and I love special moments like this??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, I’m saying it again!!! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGCQ0AAxCEe4dJj9InQAcuAeKenPC7Ah0VduOLG3NYB0V9pIAPhjXa_H6X9IR_F9qC0j8fm0m0RyRbtl8ZhhVsylgqLKMcx2BDpTgWwCPImde372iAdws6f6lhUVKwd2T0PeReRwqaNw/s2016/C7A24F49-C4E1-4A5C-9264-0741807A12BB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGCQ0AAxCEe4dJj9InQAcuAeKenPC7Ah0VduOLG3NYB0V9pIAPhjXa_H6X9IR_F9qC0j8fm0m0RyRbtl8ZhhVsylgqLKMcx2BDpTgWwCPImde372iAdws6f6lhUVKwd2T0PeReRwqaNw/w480-h640/C7A24F49-C4E1-4A5C-9264-0741807A12BB.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxmM96zu2wAArYQMjp6tTIGHsBYEyfZyBgfXVpjG1FvgVjsqzINlFQiyw7eCddzTL9Af5RDNAGvaH2871vYK6G0oFQfH4sSkHgNBXFTdaj8x4T2aoX18q0Uxk8Ty49DQ45voIY9iGhx4/s2016/FAEE5F62-32D7-49D5-B0A8-D3B232164E18.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxmM96zu2wAArYQMjp6tTIGHsBYEyfZyBgfXVpjG1FvgVjsqzINlFQiyw7eCddzTL9Af5RDNAGvaH2871vYK6G0oFQfH4sSkHgNBXFTdaj8x4T2aoX18q0Uxk8Ty49DQ45voIY9iGhx4/w480-h640/FAEE5F62-32D7-49D5-B0A8-D3B232164E18.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div>I believe the Lord wants us to open our homes and let other people experience the refuge of our own abodes when we have the capacity to do so. There’s something extra special about being inside someone’s home for an experience—I know I love being invited! </div><div><br /></div><div>I believe he wants us to shower others with love, and while sometimes that’s taking the hand of a hurting person and walking through a storm with them, maybe it’s just inviting them over for a hot cup of tea and praying together before they leave. I believe the conversations that happen at the table are so good and can lead to relationships that deepen and memories that imprint the present chapter of our story to influence the future ones.</div><div><br /></div><div>I experienced a beautiful thing at that tea party. I experienced the love of Jesus through this group of precious young sisters in Christ!! I was so blessed by them! I met some of those young ladies for the first time that afternoon and through their hugs and genuine conversations, I can honestly say they are already being used by Him!</div><div><br /></div><div>It was truly one of my favorite recent memories, hands down. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Hokj2Dbfvqxe-Bv93dRUdC9OT9oaonZEMUvySdUFzBIHaEEKULMmFfde3uaNr5udCzYbhO7nhKvCquEkV2m4WvEW1EOfPl05fxQgUXJgc9xviR0kJVe53j4kkACbV2cAd9_Ly4AJs4k/s2016/408A228D-AB7B-47DF-85E7-49C8ECC895DD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Hokj2Dbfvqxe-Bv93dRUdC9OT9oaonZEMUvySdUFzBIHaEEKULMmFfde3uaNr5udCzYbhO7nhKvCquEkV2m4WvEW1EOfPl05fxQgUXJgc9xviR0kJVe53j4kkACbV2cAd9_Ly4AJs4k/w480-h640/408A228D-AB7B-47DF-85E7-49C8ECC895DD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-61106918876058240542021-07-23T08:05:00.007-05:002021-07-23T13:14:22.189-05:00There is Coming a Day When No Heartache Shall Come<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cnq1mWSJzfesb9sq6nXsBDhL-9dmxnF4HPd8H5u07lGTQ3IyTrr370fW72AWlDGI6c-MmkhldfpEV-NCAr4ywLPMtSAuRjSaVhaTjxL5_5TTh2aZjGHFFgA8CFgaWclX2FBfu-ZIIGI/s1907/CB6F6595-CA7F-4F6D-8F83-D5903A324AEF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1907" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cnq1mWSJzfesb9sq6nXsBDhL-9dmxnF4HPd8H5u07lGTQ3IyTrr370fW72AWlDGI6c-MmkhldfpEV-NCAr4ywLPMtSAuRjSaVhaTjxL5_5TTh2aZjGHFFgA8CFgaWclX2FBfu-ZIIGI/w640-h508/CB6F6595-CA7F-4F6D-8F83-D5903A324AEF.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Those who are friends with me on social media already know this, but let me elaborate to those of you who are my Cozy Little Kitchen friends. This is something you might want to grab a warm drink or an iced tea or coffee, because this is about my very personal life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>John 16:33 <i>I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As Jesus states in this verse, problems in life are inevitable. Trials will absolutely come, because we do live in a fallen world, but we can obtain peace through Him! Sometimes, the insurmountable trials we face will actually be used for the glory of God.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year has been hard for me from the very start of it. I won’t elaborate on it all right now, and I don’t feel like I have to, because so many of the things are what most of us face in our life. The difference is there’s just been a lot of challenges happening at once. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have come up for air thanks to all the prayers and fasting of so many of my closest loved ones in my life!! I have had to reach out more than ever before these last 6 months in a plea for prayers over me and my family, and the Lord is answering!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Despite the chaos that the last several months have brought, there’s nothing as heavy as what’s happened this summer. Heath and I have had to say “goodbye” or “see you later” to two of our grandparents in June. Our family buried them a week apart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have never lost a grandparent. I say that with a heart of gratitude to have had all of my grandparents for over 37 years, but to say goodbye in exactly one week’s time to two of the best people I know was very hard on our families.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Jesus tells us in that scripture that trials will come, He doesn’t end it there, instead He gives us great hope!! He says “but take heart! I have overcome the world<i>!”. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>That means for us in Christ, death has lost its sting!!! </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because of what Jesus did on the cross of Calvary, His death and burial and resurrection means that we as disciples of Christ have eternal salvation — we go from life into life! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have the blessed assurance that Nana and Grandpapa are indeed in Heaven in the arms of Jesus! They are with their parents and grandparents again! Nana has been reunited with her brother who died when they were children of a sudden illness. Grandpapa is with his brother who suddenly passed after a surgery several years ago. They are with our daughter Bailey Faith whom I’ve never met, but now they have! I know that I know they have sat her on their lap and Nana has probably sang to her. Grandpapa has probably found some wildflowers and make her a flower necklace to wear—just like he did for Kylie the very first day he met our oldest children. I’ll never forget how much that moved me to watch his aged hands pick the flowers and create a lovely necklace to place around her. That touched me so much!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Jesus has overcome the world by overcoming death on a cross, and His victory is our our victory!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I would like to introduce our grandparents that have graduated to Heaven to you and honor them in this space. Nana, was my husband’s mom’s mom and Grandpapa, my mom’s daddy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSy2JQAWGwnPgPnlNxhaDI2w-dW_SEhipj5TOP4cxNFfG6T3YBAMXsZciSpRps8c3-UlCFqlzBzi_qSVwzzRR03k6YUa2J1hrNyx-YgLcEZ_ZQiUnXlgYG7VVi7-NOV9R9TNdxBDynn8I/s1440/628DC425-CAE1-4323-99D9-97892E4CE36F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSy2JQAWGwnPgPnlNxhaDI2w-dW_SEhipj5TOP4cxNFfG6T3YBAMXsZciSpRps8c3-UlCFqlzBzi_qSVwzzRR03k6YUa2J1hrNyx-YgLcEZ_ZQiUnXlgYG7VVi7-NOV9R9TNdxBDynn8I/w640-h640/628DC425-CAE1-4323-99D9-97892E4CE36F.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is Betty Morgan, our Nana! Here she is a couple Thanksgivings ago with Pa, the love of her life, being married almost 70 years. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nana and Pa had a marriage to admire. They are beloved by all who know them! Pa stayed right beside her in her final weeks and days and even hours, until the very end. In fact, he was at her bedside when she left this world. Though he hobbles around himself, he has been the one to cook for her and provide it all the last couple of years since her health has been in serious decline. The last few months she rapidly got worse, but we are never truly ready to say goodbye to our favorite people, are we?? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nana exuded Jesus in her demeanor. As you can see here, she carried a warm light in her beautiful blue eyes that twinkled to make whoever she was with feel so very loved! Speaking of beautiful, she had the prettiest roses I’ve ever seen! She had a rose garden with different varieties and a couple different climbing roses that she carefully tended to so well. These weren’t stuffy gardens, but the kind that drew you in around her country home. She would bring me bouquets from time to time with all the colors in the rainbow, that smelled so fragrant and sweet! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will always remember how put-together and elegant she always looked, seemingly without even trying! Her skin so pretty and she always wore a nice coral shade of lipstick and nail polish on her arthritic fingers. I don’t remember her without nail polish on her fingers and toes. She wore color so well and loved wearing florals, too. I always said how I wanted to be like Nana when I grow up in the graceful manner and in the youthfulness she naturally exude! She was not even 5 feet tall, and yet she always filled the room with her sunny disposition and endearing heart for her loved ones.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She was the best in the kitchen and taught me so much about how to bake! For many years, my favorite place to be was beside Nana in her kitchen and I have spent many times there over the course of being in their family over the last 20 years! She’s passed down to me her our favorite recipes like <a href="http://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/10/nanas-best-loved-apple-pie.html" target="_blank">Nana’s Apple Pie</a>, <a href="http://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/2010_04_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Lemon Meringue Pie</a>, <a href="http://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/11/bestloved-derby-pie.html" target="_blank">Derby Pie</a>, and Strawberry Cake. She was known in our family for her famous fried chicken dinners, where she would invite us over and serve us her homemade fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, mashed potatoes, garden corn, and Lima beans. Always serving a delectable dessert or two with coffee afterward! I looked forward to that meal more than any restaurant. It wasn’t just about the food, but the way she made you feel when you sat at the table with her. She would always want you to get more food than a belly could handle and she loved telling stories of when she was younger or her kids were young. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Though she lived most of her married adult life on the same small country road, she lived a full life. She proves that the very best and meaningful lives don’t have to be the most elaborate ones! Her life revolved around her family and her church, and the legacy she left is a very honorable one. We all miss her so much! There will only be one “Nana”!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazS6gUFjEE4Dcr_14ap8dKtrW04GqDIrvh9IMmVIPRjktNR-wadmOR5UFxOnQ2atmrBMURDoT3z1beZjqVUFi0cPeTyYJNYyJI2XLzWJP2GDzjs1GbwMyqasHNOnHFYiE6-6cTp2jJag/s1499/F9639EB6-5F5A-4E3D-B6B4-B75C7BCE1722.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1499" data-original-width="1199" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazS6gUFjEE4Dcr_14ap8dKtrW04GqDIrvh9IMmVIPRjktNR-wadmOR5UFxOnQ2atmrBMURDoT3z1beZjqVUFi0cPeTyYJNYyJI2XLzWJP2GDzjs1GbwMyqasHNOnHFYiE6-6cTp2jJag/w512-h640/F9639EB6-5F5A-4E3D-B6B4-B75C7BCE1722.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>This is hard to write, because there really aren’t earthly words to describe my beloved Grandpapa, Gerald Lowell Walker.<p></p><p>I’m crying as I type this out. </p><p>I’ve been weepy lately.</p><p>Grandpapa and Granny. This picture below of them is just my favorite thing ever! If you can’t tell, they loved each other with such a deep love for over 6 decades. Granny was right beside him when he passed after she stayed there for weeks not wanting to miss a thing! </p><p>Grandpapa’s world was absolutely God and his family and his farm and everybody knew it. The Walker family is very close-knit and loving, and I attribute that to these two and the example they set for us all. Grandpapa loved the Lord and it was evident! He loved people and would tell them about what Jesus has done for him. He wasn’t a missionary, he didn’t go to Bible school or even have a degree. He did ministry the organic, grass-roots, first church kind of way and that is simply that Jesus just exuded out from everything he did!! His body may have been slowly slipping away this year, but his spirit was very strong! I just recently heard of how this past winter he literally gave a man he had just met the new coat off his back, because that man was cold and didn’t have a way to stay warm! That’s the kind of man I always knew him as, but he wasn’t always that way —here’s how the Lord turned a trial into something very good for His glory…</p><p>Grandpapa was a highly regarded certified welder for the pipeline, exactly like my dad is, and in fact he was the one who got my dad into welding in the first place! One of the very best, he worked on the “great Alaskan” pipeline in the ‘70s. Through his success in that job, he came back home and built his family a beautiful brick home. At this time, he wasn’t in church regularly and his life revolved around his work. In 1989 something happened where God got his attention. Tragically, his hand was blown off in an explosion on a job, and this required major surgery to repair and left him no choice but to retire from welding. If you don’t know, a good welder needs a steady hand like a surgeon. after that accident, his life was never the same! He would tell you how the Lord used that accident for His glory to turn his life around. Grandpapa saw the merciful hand of God in that accident, and his life became even more fruitful and blessed as he began walking everyday with the Lord. No doubt he would tell this story today if you asked him about it in Heaven! </p><p>Grandpapa and Granny built the beautiful country home, we know today, on their farm land just after the accident, and he began to go into full time farming! Farming is all I remember Grandpapa doing. He would always be getting on or off a tractor or coming back from <i>the hill </i>where his cattle was. He was a cowboy at heart, and just a handful of years ago he built a small, rustic cabin on his property in the woods for himself. He built it with his own two hands and with lots of love! He was so proud of that cabin, and it’s such a serene place for solitude and rest on their farm! That’s where these photos of him and Granny were taken that capture him so well. That cabin will always be cherished by our family—Always!</p><p>We had a family fish fry almost one month to the date before his passing. It was at their house, and he was there with most of my extended family doing what we do best which is cooking, eating and laughing and playing together at the farm. I am so so glad he planned this fish fry! Oh, my. Little did we all know it would be the last time we would all be together like that and it was the last time I had a conversation with him. The Lord was good to give us one last time together. The next time I was there, was the day he passed we met back at the farm with Granny. The family met to surround Granny with love. We are, the cried a lot, and to remembered the ver best about him as we processed and released him to Jesus. He was already with Jesus, but sometimes our hearts take a bit longer to release. I will miss him with all my heart!!</p><p>So exactly to the very hour, these two amazing souls crossed over into Glory just one week apart. We went from barely recovering from one good-bye to the next. But they have no more ailments or pain in Heaven! They have brand new bodies so the loss is strictly ours. We will miss them, but we will continue to honor the legacy they build their life on and we will water the seeds of faith they planted to all whom they met along the way! The torch is passed down and we will proudly take up the eternal cause our grandparents left behind. </p><p>This scratches the surface of them and their lives. I may write more in the future, but as you can imagine it takes an emotional toll to recollect it all. </p><p>I want to honor my mom for a moment and say thank you to her and her siblings for caring for him and Granny at the end. They are still caring for Granny as she’s back at their beloved farm. </p><p>Please pray for both my Granny and Heath’s Pa, especially as they mourn the love of their life and need the strength and resolve to move forward in the days ahead. They know and love the Lord so I know they’ll be alright, but I can’t imagine losing my favorite person in all the world.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6Qs08pm6snv5PIvmn9IjySJ3m_Lx7fdxNV4EjDH1PjhsyuxJTtsqbSfhu6vBTXhTlMxGgTV6SsWQsSbNV1iEzZTxTFexq9ZTLlTputenGregxKXUJ9_RbBE4rsHZC_VFtl3Um9yKWI8/s1440/B32D79E0-5900-46A4-8BEB-A289A9F44274.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6Qs08pm6snv5PIvmn9IjySJ3m_Lx7fdxNV4EjDH1PjhsyuxJTtsqbSfhu6vBTXhTlMxGgTV6SsWQsSbNV1iEzZTxTFexq9ZTLlTputenGregxKXUJ9_RbBE4rsHZC_VFtl3Um9yKWI8/w640-h640/B32D79E0-5900-46A4-8BEB-A289A9F44274.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteSm8jumcHaW2I-I8GBW3IkkgkJCtBR0ThAfb1mpnnqtGDm4vy-_C0W9BH_pAxsUaqeYxKCotiExMh3tW5nNR4AVgsc2TjHlF4UwKMATiHfFw-o6wgmfyVHZxNDOO1Y2_f6kcxoG1bIc/s1280/E2962976-A71D-4F17-AABD-709F8C44D71C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="854" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteSm8jumcHaW2I-I8GBW3IkkgkJCtBR0ThAfb1mpnnqtGDm4vy-_C0W9BH_pAxsUaqeYxKCotiExMh3tW5nNR4AVgsc2TjHlF4UwKMATiHfFw-o6wgmfyVHZxNDOO1Y2_f6kcxoG1bIc/w428-h640/E2962976-A71D-4F17-AABD-709F8C44D71C.jpeg" width="428" /></a></div><br /><p>I will be okay, and I am okay! The reflection of their beautiful lives have given me a perspective of truly appreciating and enjoying every single day—even the toughest ones. I am reminded that I am building a life that matters!!! What we do in our homes and in the lives around us everyday matters for generations to come and for eternity. It goes way beyond us, for this is Kingdom work!!</p><p>Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown and for allowing me to introduce you to two of the greatest people to grace the earth.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-3378975657045830802021-07-08T17:06:00.003-05:002021-07-14T20:41:53.528-05:00Easy & Delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9RgcRnN6PvQc-be8jtmHIANc9tEKrWA9-VDdBevNRHl1gg9dP697grJYStqQlkMVKhBaAKXOUdy492Rmoi_zEDapPa3J81ttb_rGrj2Fyq1GdBSzmS6xBB7OEXWokqYwfqC8N0wu3MXk/s2016/B66798B4-3D64-43C6-A170-C86A7A31FBED.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9RgcRnN6PvQc-be8jtmHIANc9tEKrWA9-VDdBevNRHl1gg9dP697grJYStqQlkMVKhBaAKXOUdy492Rmoi_zEDapPa3J81ttb_rGrj2Fyq1GdBSzmS6xBB7OEXWokqYwfqC8N0wu3MXk/w480-h640/B66798B4-3D64-43C6-A170-C86A7A31FBED.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beautiful, golden grilled corn on the cob is the epitome of summertime food for me! What a perfectly easy side dish for any grilled meat. I paired this grilled corn with grilled chicken, roasted squash and peppers, and a salad. I was happy to remember the cowboy beans my mom sent home with us after out 4th of July celebration so that was delicious with it all! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuzVFd3qQO_C5s9VcCT-cjrh2dBTCZrJR9ngFBMrTX3VwPiCWWQVfVbGN-7CrjCQR7KVwkDAgkFRXJ4ju8uQalKxF14JB6MXiP7SGQeLWvl6pvQShS7pK9Y-wTEcTr8i3Vas94kZW7cg/s2016/158CCA92-C95E-446E-BED1-9CFCA9C4E5E7.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuzVFd3qQO_C5s9VcCT-cjrh2dBTCZrJR9ngFBMrTX3VwPiCWWQVfVbGN-7CrjCQR7KVwkDAgkFRXJ4ju8uQalKxF14JB6MXiP7SGQeLWvl6pvQShS7pK9Y-wTEcTr8i3Vas94kZW7cg/w480-h640/158CCA92-C95E-446E-BED1-9CFCA9C4E5E7.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By the way, if you’re in the states, how was your 4th of July holiday?? I hope it was as good as ours was! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had the most mild temperatures, the prettiest skies in the world plus low humidity which made for a perfect weekend filled with celebrating, cooking and eating! It started with our favorite Freedom Fest parade (which we sorely missed after it was canceled in 2020). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There’s nothing more Americana that a small town parade with floats, a pageant Queen, antique cars, shined up antique tractors and of course, horses. The American flags were waved, Veterans were honored, and popsicles and fans were passed out and gladly accepted!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jBvrqr4Cjitio6uXv4-Pas1cB97fa-7dVTTtUsI3K_zhVjk2ergv2Ut12x4MBSQ6Nw4oWE-6GxCTS-UBncMaVL6m1RHCqsv2Dv8upGvIN-URTOrdouPAanoLNO-BxqyoscHdaEJGKks/s1280/3C3E3E36-8F02-4C39-AF84-8E7BF73E67F4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jBvrqr4Cjitio6uXv4-Pas1cB97fa-7dVTTtUsI3K_zhVjk2ergv2Ut12x4MBSQ6Nw4oWE-6GxCTS-UBncMaVL6m1RHCqsv2Dv8upGvIN-URTOrdouPAanoLNO-BxqyoscHdaEJGKks/w512-h640/3C3E3E36-8F02-4C39-AF84-8E7BF73E67F4.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our annual big family “picnic on the grounds” at my parents house in the country is the highlight for me! My extended family came totaling almost 40 people, which made it wonderful!!! (We are taking back all the time lost last year..) The food here was some of the best to eat. My family knows how to cook!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLHWBFkygPKD8xAHvB-d3OWIXMysWrgfvPzR9WIrui__4LTk89iXCT-EskVY-o7Em9sO3X4qRfFnOuj58KzBe8AITolateK8NLs1qr3BMSbsJtYFlP5HouIG3Mx6B_T0hd1LaRUbjJXQ/s1219/F611EAE7-D0CB-42C7-9007-CE87E4006D4C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="1219" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLHWBFkygPKD8xAHvB-d3OWIXMysWrgfvPzR9WIrui__4LTk89iXCT-EskVY-o7Em9sO3X4qRfFnOuj58KzBe8AITolateK8NLs1qr3BMSbsJtYFlP5HouIG3Mx6B_T0hd1LaRUbjJXQ/w640-h432/F611EAE7-D0CB-42C7-9007-CE87E4006D4C.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxQb-oAYSax-TMxZFWXtFA4B5ORs91iC7zTVzQsUjxR7T6UtN2xyzcwjWHMZlSOQZGnKCftVgT4D8YcQCzrg1RMgezHrMVEuGH12D8smuyquno17z7oQzOTdNMjl8THUU9Nf_g0V9EyY/s1280/0D0CE242-B3F3-4FF7-915B-1F4D27BB7B7D.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxQb-oAYSax-TMxZFWXtFA4B5ORs91iC7zTVzQsUjxR7T6UtN2xyzcwjWHMZlSOQZGnKCftVgT4D8YcQCzrg1RMgezHrMVEuGH12D8smuyquno17z7oQzOTdNMjl8THUU9Nf_g0V9EyY/w480-h640/0D0CE242-B3F3-4FF7-915B-1F4D27BB7B7D.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrbZeMeeI1J4tymuWcF5r8C-Y9ut2xXu765-wypg0qdARWgXeiWGfPk976Xk5ht_jloY0wXyoj3BFMB7FOrzQk0ZlqQmnCXDvmA27-Ds84n1WXX-TDulCTfq6pI8zyfH1KhQG8cG1ESc/s2016/6D1A7623-3F56-4188-8177-5A7F330544DA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrbZeMeeI1J4tymuWcF5r8C-Y9ut2xXu765-wypg0qdARWgXeiWGfPk976Xk5ht_jloY0wXyoj3BFMB7FOrzQk0ZlqQmnCXDvmA27-Ds84n1WXX-TDulCTfq6pI8zyfH1KhQG8cG1ESc/w480-h640/6D1A7623-3F56-4188-8177-5A7F330544DA.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div></blockquote><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We ended the evening with a spectacular fireworks show. The weekend ended with me having a very thankful heart to God for my family and my church family and of course for the freedoms me have in our nation. I can honestly say whole weekend was busy but a very blessed one!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Back to the grilled corn.. I’m sharing this with you because it’s not only fresh and seasonal but it’s very easy and simple! You can grill corn a number of ways, but this is easy as it requires no presoaking and when you unwrap it it’s basically done! The herbs add a little something extra, and I like to sprinkle those on just before serving. This requires just a few ingredients but you’re welcome of course to add whatever spice you would desire. If you love spicy, add Cajun seasoning instead of just salt. Have fun with it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4v3kK4Y9xbbWmXP61Q_1LYceF_pvyQM3-vkZacn3L8-HruXk3AopMkg6bFP25QU7knai1PrWhvbz5Z2eyehrlOm95ub1N8MSlUscDELBwpDQ8BCvHAE16HA3NR0y6SVfWXheiO39hChI/s2016/FD3A7101-7806-4B03-9958-A5C7CE7ACAC3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4v3kK4Y9xbbWmXP61Q_1LYceF_pvyQM3-vkZacn3L8-HruXk3AopMkg6bFP25QU7knai1PrWhvbz5Z2eyehrlOm95ub1N8MSlUscDELBwpDQ8BCvHAE16HA3NR0y6SVfWXheiO39hChI/w480-h640/FD3A7101-7806-4B03-9958-A5C7CE7ACAC3.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><b>Grilled Corn on the Cob</b></p><p>Fresh corn on the cob</p><p>Real butter</p><p>Salt </p><p>Herbs, chopped (I used flat leaf Parsley and Basil)</p><p>Foil</p><p><br /></p><p>Tear enough foil pieces to wrap each corn on the cob and you’ll use about 1 Tbsp. butter for each large corn on the cob. So this time I shucked 6, and I used approx. 6 Tbsp. Butter—probably just a bit less. As you know if you have followed me for a while, I eye ball this sort of thing!</p><p>Take your corn and lay it on the foil. Cut a pat of butter in half, place on the corn, and sprinkle with salt. Be fairly generous here unless you’re using salted butter. Wrap the foil around the corn on the cob really well and repeat with the remaining corn and ingredients.</p><p>I grilled the corn on med-high heat after allowing the grill to heat on high. I grilled it for about 20 minutes, turning a third of the way, a couple of times. Keep it in it’s foil packets until the very end of grilling. Don’t worry, you’ll still get some beautiful char even with the foil on. The butter and salt with distribute around the corn while it gets nice and tender on the grill in the foil.</p><p>Take off the grill, unwrap the corn and place on a serving dish. Add some additional salt and sprinkle the chopped herbs over it all!</p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-83411636095044477572021-07-02T16:40:00.010-05:002021-07-06T20:29:21.454-05:00Fresh Watermelon Salsa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">It has been so good for me to see all the life the season of</span><span style="text-align: left;"> summer brings! From the Farmers Markets to the lazy nearby lake towns packed with people and the local drive in burger joints staying busy! There’s an excitement in the air in the bustle of people—but it’s different than Christmastime—as this time it’s not coinciding with consumerism alone but with new experiences, adventures, nature, recreation, exercise, and enjoying the beauty of God’s creation! This bustle coincides with relaxation and rest. Man, those are two things I need these days…. who’s with me? </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">What goes along with all the gatherings of people? Well, delicious and fresh food—of course!!</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaI91TpNoXnp2-ei9ftGtqKI7lJqUZ4X-u5VAPuewGbdleyExjZyAgjxnTzBZR9NZgoA6uVeuV7Pm1zGkKmfmaDmIdPwHe45PQiqp4h0kLMybgzM1kcZhBBBtY0OlJPeQjpqlJC0TTYA/s1799/E29D7F40-7174-42D7-BE40-FA28ECCEE40A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaI91TpNoXnp2-ei9ftGtqKI7lJqUZ4X-u5VAPuewGbdleyExjZyAgjxnTzBZR9NZgoA6uVeuV7Pm1zGkKmfmaDmIdPwHe45PQiqp4h0kLMybgzM1kcZhBBBtY0OlJPeQjpqlJC0TTYA/w512-h640/E29D7F40-7174-42D7-BE40-FA28ECCEE40A.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><br /> I have to share this easy and freshingly delicious recipe I made for our family’s Memorial Day gathering we hosted this year. Watermelon salsa! It’s technically pico de gallo, but in this application I used it as a dip like salsa. It would be amazing on grilled chicken, I’m sure but the salty corn chips were perfect to soak up the spicy and sweet taste this salsa brings!<div><br /></div><div>It was a hit!!! The watermelon was light and refreshing and the jalapeño spicy and the bell pepper sweet. So good that I’ve been craving it since. It would be perfect as a poolside treat to munch on all week long and it’s definitely special enough for the Fourth of July this weekend.</div><div><br /></div><div>Let me know if you have tried this and what you think. I’m pretty sure my fellow salsa lovers will approve!<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4JvFl1ubyNvSlxeCzZyUCy6fxEFrvcgQEv-pcy4l3EZpWJ-P_HQJ3BHV7kdApePMXVkDRIXN_bQ7hOlR5cHDZoHw6ayFoikE2RQ3WXyuiywoSo7RwSzHXYfFZP49Vh3sOkWUDKPYxoo/s1280/E6952461-AA55-4D6C-AF71-70F33A5A2F2D.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1026" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4JvFl1ubyNvSlxeCzZyUCy6fxEFrvcgQEv-pcy4l3EZpWJ-P_HQJ3BHV7kdApePMXVkDRIXN_bQ7hOlR5cHDZoHw6ayFoikE2RQ3WXyuiywoSo7RwSzHXYfFZP49Vh3sOkWUDKPYxoo/w512-h640/E6952461-AA55-4D6C-AF71-70F33A5A2F2D.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Watermelon Salsa, or as Ree calls it Pico de Gallo</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Recipe: <u>Pioneer Woman Cooks, A Year of Holidays</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 small seedless Watermelon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 c. Red onion, diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 green bell pepper, seeded and finely diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 yellow pepper, seeded and finely diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 bunch of cilantro, shopped (I didn’t use that much)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Juice of 2 Limes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. Salt, more to taste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dice watermelon and add to a large bowl. Add the onion and all the peppers and jalapeños. Throw in the cilantro and the lime juice and salt. Toss the salsa (or pico, hehe, I feel stubborn to keep calling it salsa) and give it a taste. I tasted mine with a tortilla ship so I would have a good idea if it needed something else on the chip. This would be amazing served over chicken, too! She has a couple other varieties of this recipe I want to try using mango and also pineapple, but the watermelon is just so refreshing for summer and beautiful!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUm6EftSVOkhjfm1MIplNayn9zpzscfZLb4qAX-_lqYM-y1pazP2mqq3NqozXh3S4Gn4CTo2sw90xQg_xr4O73prUVDPTYv11NFbSxC0YcD0HGzmhzuh4KV0wWu84tvw6BPhfAe7Usg4/s2016/785EEEF6-106E-4BC0-A143-F05C0DFDF17C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUm6EftSVOkhjfm1MIplNayn9zpzscfZLb4qAX-_lqYM-y1pazP2mqq3NqozXh3S4Gn4CTo2sw90xQg_xr4O73prUVDPTYv11NFbSxC0YcD0HGzmhzuh4KV0wWu84tvw6BPhfAe7Usg4/w480-h640/785EEEF6-106E-4BC0-A143-F05C0DFDF17C.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>God Bless America!!! </i></b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-17382052848304403462021-05-26T10:01:00.013-05:002021-07-02T16:53:18.140-05:00Easy Camping Recipes & A Peek into Our Camping Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BmOzWJzvcm6x4XNpcnw7vCFTODGwz_gYmRGBmfO2P7srIt_fvAMhIzYZH8cabadPTeECFaCsVUhgAhut_oiQ3hu6QL93psx9R2NbYWl8lyMHIk57LUj5P5v48cDqIUj11YcVtqKCBN8/s2048/00399061-4F49-474E-9A87-9D106330020A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BmOzWJzvcm6x4XNpcnw7vCFTODGwz_gYmRGBmfO2P7srIt_fvAMhIzYZH8cabadPTeECFaCsVUhgAhut_oiQ3hu6QL93psx9R2NbYWl8lyMHIk57LUj5P5v48cDqIUj11YcVtqKCBN8/w480-h640/00399061-4F49-474E-9A87-9D106330020A.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Heath and I took the kids camping! We rented a beautiful, new camper from some friends of ours. The site was already set up so comfortably and it was honestly the best way for us to camp since we don’t own a camper or even a truck. This was a quick getaway about 30 minutes away from home the first weekend of May, which meant beautiful weather here in Kentucky!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Sx4N2qfpAjcnFqtqdoRjL086HrItBUpbwgwe4hfJ8v4qHyKTYNw-tv-DApyX4Vjt5H2xx2ex6GH3KmQUINRhjXwZdIjyHjlYCJsBen7Mn1qHgNq9H0pmRaxbm-7ZIc3L0kc7R8aQFic/s2048/DE00077D-AE62-4783-88B8-095C0D3F59EB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Sx4N2qfpAjcnFqtqdoRjL086HrItBUpbwgwe4hfJ8v4qHyKTYNw-tv-DApyX4Vjt5H2xx2ex6GH3KmQUINRhjXwZdIjyHjlYCJsBen7Mn1qHgNq9H0pmRaxbm-7ZIc3L0kc7R8aQFic/w480-h640/DE00077D-AE62-4783-88B8-095C0D3F59EB.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wGRQjLn7q2Z4UuhYPWMisE6GJYSGr58vqouY6oRQxxhcnELSA1Fp1aoq5Z4bpE9SAnECmV1rOTmK-2gEmlApw_RCNF9InWAfh1JBZQ4j7mg37dY_wqzTHdquh8ftbJ17WoRIljrxRgc/s2048/24075BCB-A35A-4B89-A1F6-205856FEF769.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wGRQjLn7q2Z4UuhYPWMisE6GJYSGr58vqouY6oRQxxhcnELSA1Fp1aoq5Z4bpE9SAnECmV1rOTmK-2gEmlApw_RCNF9InWAfh1JBZQ4j7mg37dY_wqzTHdquh8ftbJ17WoRIljrxRgc/w480-h640/24075BCB-A35A-4B89-A1F6-205856FEF769.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNhEFVPlqMhZDH-rcpTVHHJi7-6GW4XzkqsuSpPXDRMso3pQWa1mvONhKFZTHDrDK_LAZrspVAP0H2GnXeWu9ToBD-t62Z4eJnPNF-BvhoWIDX_NfqjjHWQzqf2JfK3F7FiI8NV1Z1Ec/s2048/898495A5-F7D7-4126-84FC-EAA0261C69E2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNhEFVPlqMhZDH-rcpTVHHJi7-6GW4XzkqsuSpPXDRMso3pQWa1mvONhKFZTHDrDK_LAZrspVAP0H2GnXeWu9ToBD-t62Z4eJnPNF-BvhoWIDX_NfqjjHWQzqf2JfK3F7FiI8NV1Z1Ec/w480-h640/898495A5-F7D7-4126-84FC-EAA0261C69E2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I’ve only been camping with my family in the fall, so late spring camping after the pollen count died down and before the humidity and mosquitoes get bad was so nice! It was perfect for cozy throws, coffee and campfires in the early morning and late nights, but hot enough for shorts, sandals, biking, watermelon and popsicles during the day. Best of both worlds!</span></div><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ7HI21unQcRtzp8FcrpVldc5v4aAc44jbSXX2aUP6utowWBDJN8y3CdLjH6NQ4xfngtf0B9a4O1jjXqKwhNfnvUjUSPX8sVgCkSx5FIW22Ojfe1Tvmvtl5iXrcG_sugjuhzKbZXNjjM/s2048/CC76E1B6-4024-466E-8B6D-13441D7F5E6C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ7HI21unQcRtzp8FcrpVldc5v4aAc44jbSXX2aUP6utowWBDJN8y3CdLjH6NQ4xfngtf0B9a4O1jjXqKwhNfnvUjUSPX8sVgCkSx5FIW22Ojfe1Tvmvtl5iXrcG_sugjuhzKbZXNjjM/w480-h640/CC76E1B6-4024-466E-8B6D-13441D7F5E6C.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z_xFeeh_Hn6k-kNSJbjKsEYhObeNi7QpjmLF9s2q7K8lpN9LP4p0VE8KVnswlX5ALBshWdV_J6dhwuS-XS5Ow_1iAyUm2bN-BDHBbsjreDfiEhiDFIGw58deW9ddFx4weH5blXq_lqg/s2048/C5C98EDC-6ED1-4083-8C41-634E51317FED.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z_xFeeh_Hn6k-kNSJbjKsEYhObeNi7QpjmLF9s2q7K8lpN9LP4p0VE8KVnswlX5ALBshWdV_J6dhwuS-XS5Ow_1iAyUm2bN-BDHBbsjreDfiEhiDFIGw58deW9ddFx4weH5blXq_lqg/w480-h640/C5C98EDC-6ED1-4083-8C41-634E51317FED.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqfRteNgk2Mkpr_2oOSCcioTCZ0KK9L9baHzi7W-akx2mQlhEdC8diDyBhcmPFf-BdhzmUxCP3Ht9_gnDOi5Gdogn_zUKgV6leDTPX9rJypg6t_6gJ0LCjJWc8VhNbdad_ngEQWABR4Q/s2048/B5A317D0-6F7A-4DB1-92F7-0692443A134A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqfRteNgk2Mkpr_2oOSCcioTCZ0KK9L9baHzi7W-akx2mQlhEdC8diDyBhcmPFf-BdhzmUxCP3Ht9_gnDOi5Gdogn_zUKgV6leDTPX9rJypg6t_6gJ0LCjJWc8VhNbdad_ngEQWABR4Q/w480-h640/B5A317D0-6F7A-4DB1-92F7-0692443A134A.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>My favorite things about camping are the very quiet early mornings before everyone else in my camper—or in the campground— is up and moving around yet. </p><p>It’s special to step outside with my first cup of coffee that I soooo very quietly made (not to wake the kids) and enter the fresh air as the sun is coming up through the woods. Then I usually make a small fire in the fire pit and snuggle with my coffee and soak up the fact that I’m surrounded by nature—God’s creation!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAhbJ-mmf_sSvSlfYDp9vB9ITMHcZWOT3mLlsNHopBut71YRwXKj-u89ITZfWIr5aiwSVU21lXTChHDKGgyMiigUHbYjBoIV3F5Gnv7gY7gwkK5HQUsIgnySej7_0cIfqhsjAc0oSyeA/s2016/5C0E9ED3-5451-4EB2-9B7C-8AA46A388892.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAhbJ-mmf_sSvSlfYDp9vB9ITMHcZWOT3mLlsNHopBut71YRwXKj-u89ITZfWIr5aiwSVU21lXTChHDKGgyMiigUHbYjBoIV3F5Gnv7gY7gwkK5HQUsIgnySej7_0cIfqhsjAc0oSyeA/w480-h640/5C0E9ED3-5451-4EB2-9B7C-8AA46A388892.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8B4kZDr1WrI0psN1WwON8rGUW_h04Wpul9UgyomE8kP2tpZaOSpCd8zuXfCtviFmJBLffOK4pOQhhKjxXZrAVsi9kOKrp0lCveQQVZpOQM86CS6o8RJV9ujqtzSXnSkEbNzCf_fpDCk/s1544/B3A1709A-C050-4816-8A78-E6C3034D3C29.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8B4kZDr1WrI0psN1WwON8rGUW_h04Wpul9UgyomE8kP2tpZaOSpCd8zuXfCtviFmJBLffOK4pOQhhKjxXZrAVsi9kOKrp0lCveQQVZpOQM86CS6o8RJV9ujqtzSXnSkEbNzCf_fpDCk/w480-h640/B3A1709A-C050-4816-8A78-E6C3034D3C29.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCkbZds9wK7jsfz_84-Mlv24sYmLOnAkOI7DHxiro0dh9LAWLk0NKCO4pe2IUOOF8VpsLybRiPD0q_TXvq-9hAayg42aqak-MFly44eX696t7XUIWK8vFk-iUcBUSgdoHIkIjnhuZgtw/s2016/1A277366-B2CB-4131-AAB9-79A47EB401EF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCkbZds9wK7jsfz_84-Mlv24sYmLOnAkOI7DHxiro0dh9LAWLk0NKCO4pe2IUOOF8VpsLybRiPD0q_TXvq-9hAayg42aqak-MFly44eX696t7XUIWK8vFk-iUcBUSgdoHIkIjnhuZgtw/w480-h640/1A277366-B2CB-4131-AAB9-79A47EB401EF.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>We enjoyed all the food that we made. I kept it very simple: roasted hotdogs with chips and queso dip (which was delicious!) and gooey s’mores the first night. </p><p>S’mores are a must, especially for Rosemary!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWrNzJcKFfe0fqYp4T2_vRKZ_NsEiB0WmRw8tYfK6wec9p7D6sTsG7E9np3Ct-JNr940Phc6lR8uzHB8pzY6lzUL8dAKFZBeyA0_kpRo29A21Kucj5DMEnmlTFiwH3nNo8YuJU0LfSm8/s1778/A7ADF811-9835-4804-AD75-276E6F5007DB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1778" data-original-width="1322" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWrNzJcKFfe0fqYp4T2_vRKZ_NsEiB0WmRw8tYfK6wec9p7D6sTsG7E9np3Ct-JNr940Phc6lR8uzHB8pzY6lzUL8dAKFZBeyA0_kpRo29A21Kucj5DMEnmlTFiwH3nNo8YuJU0LfSm8/w476-h640/A7ADF811-9835-4804-AD75-276E6F5007DB.jpeg" width="476" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>So lets talk queso dip! This recipe was different than I usually make, and so very good! It had the best spice and smoky undertones about it. It was so delicious that I want to share the very easy recipe with you!</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9fc9HJjLCAny1d7UyjPNt2jXNl-0nFbIQ4gjfCtNo9_xS1z_3M0rByq9ydPonFg_KWtaOLPW0z23MdLEhfhfqUagUy9XQPvr7GGmjtXUF4s7I96rdaokLnzs4w1tTspfFa_KFZ_l-cw/s2016/DAB738FE-DE2B-4521-9ED1-E96AF3F9F19E.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9fc9HJjLCAny1d7UyjPNt2jXNl-0nFbIQ4gjfCtNo9_xS1z_3M0rByq9ydPonFg_KWtaOLPW0z23MdLEhfhfqUagUy9XQPvr7GGmjtXUF4s7I96rdaokLnzs4w1tTspfFa_KFZ_l-cw/w480-h640/DAB738FE-DE2B-4521-9ED1-E96AF3F9F19E.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><b>Smoky and Spicy Queso Dip</b></p><p>8 oz. pepper jack cheese, cubed</p><p>Half brick of Velvetta, cubed</p><p>Jar of salsa verde (I initially used just shy of a full jar and it was perfect for me.)</p><p>A few dashes of Cumin</p><p>Put everything together in a cast iron or another pot, and heat until everything is gooey and melted! Stir every few minutes so it doesn’t burn. </p><p>I cooked ours in cast iron skillet I brought along with us, over a hot grill. It’s delicious with tortilla chips!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhjNuJcw15OnZ2DW6tEMb8iMylDzOJWU5Q5PQqpWboiBdJZAJ_zoPlh2Uy3gKtsm4axEBQSUeZAGO3S1qGohV2jRky-Bdmb1LNP0oQVSmIlkBSihyphenhyphenmcXlllLKNEQo2ApvUtDBPclCT30/s2048/C78BF42E-A58A-463B-8D54-38950D6E79DD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhjNuJcw15OnZ2DW6tEMb8iMylDzOJWU5Q5PQqpWboiBdJZAJ_zoPlh2Uy3gKtsm4axEBQSUeZAGO3S1qGohV2jRky-Bdmb1LNP0oQVSmIlkBSihyphenhyphenmcXlllLKNEQo2ApvUtDBPclCT30/w480-h640/C78BF42E-A58A-463B-8D54-38950D6E79DD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">All outside cooking! Hearty meals to fuel days full of playing. </span></div><p>For breakfasts we had pancakes cooked on the griddle, which was really delicious and fun, and sausage in the cast iron pan over the grill. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtInKLlnpemt25z_SCLno6uJSMhQrwcKNbfHQZU-8XRxtaTeamk4XWWjnNdO7VmQ6jqw4hDZaIPWRdLPkCPWntMuvqHhk-xiGIOcFVclXg1lw7SGalJn6g4ba5w1ad4ratldm4x9KELKc/s2016/F265F711-6E6B-4201-8E25-A61FA011CC9B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtInKLlnpemt25z_SCLno6uJSMhQrwcKNbfHQZU-8XRxtaTeamk4XWWjnNdO7VmQ6jqw4hDZaIPWRdLPkCPWntMuvqHhk-xiGIOcFVclXg1lw7SGalJn6g4ba5w1ad4ratldm4x9KELKc/w480-h640/F265F711-6E6B-4201-8E25-A61FA011CC9B.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9RPdTHRu0_h9RRy6-eEgjc3SNZwWDr5FqhrZVqrr8WgA8xerhwwQuI3JXUZ8NnSvI3R80stAx3bD5722VKnl2VZ_ga-TareOrFHganEP4XR0xpWgMUVTrDYfbwHHQKhtPCTW4VQJN_I/s2016/916809C2-AA20-4ECB-9B1F-72E5127EDC84.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9RPdTHRu0_h9RRy6-eEgjc3SNZwWDr5FqhrZVqrr8WgA8xerhwwQuI3JXUZ8NnSvI3R80stAx3bD5722VKnl2VZ_ga-TareOrFHganEP4XR0xpWgMUVTrDYfbwHHQKhtPCTW4VQJN_I/w480-h640/916809C2-AA20-4ECB-9B1F-72E5127EDC84.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rvsUtl-GEDcSvGc47-VTBLUhqrPqvfFyeIYCw5B2WAe7lcB0Ckp1F4-YHacjzMskmoVOBc3OZnbYocBPmjN9WTycvM8TF-qqOHKSyydCNNS1Ph3ndZM7pQN073W8RLgOmcOMzkECki8/s2016/B0D5E750-F007-4161-9438-A5268E869AE1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rvsUtl-GEDcSvGc47-VTBLUhqrPqvfFyeIYCw5B2WAe7lcB0Ckp1F4-YHacjzMskmoVOBc3OZnbYocBPmjN9WTycvM8TF-qqOHKSyydCNNS1Ph3ndZM7pQN073W8RLgOmcOMzkECki8/w480-h640/B0D5E750-F007-4161-9438-A5268E869AE1.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-ZwIWORrpz5sRfDc0FZKEvPQMUDAWcLIbosIfwCuNv5YtnikhsL-E-3GQur4wHyy9K-Eu7_5mz8cBKGxtDde-hicqGH3xSXTBeJJlPU9uO1Af8zUPaXoMEaKhmGabIoPqx3kXpq9kmk/s2016/CD449BC2-A3D0-487B-AE2A-C2F7A198043A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-ZwIWORrpz5sRfDc0FZKEvPQMUDAWcLIbosIfwCuNv5YtnikhsL-E-3GQur4wHyy9K-Eu7_5mz8cBKGxtDde-hicqGH3xSXTBeJJlPU9uO1Af8zUPaXoMEaKhmGabIoPqx3kXpq9kmk/w480-h640/CD449BC2-A3D0-487B-AE2A-C2F7A198043A.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh179RkrVOkOYBI5k3H0p0SisanSc68PCUwnWoOP-mvpC1XkZDkAx9Le5o1TXi6EKuVSDUVKNtmSdoitxmGGn9m1lBGqOw_MhQ3Ykgzt28N82LwsbHIPKOs9Y1ArLKABTQjwb8KZAL2_w/s2016/F806CB97-3BEA-4EAF-BF2D-85330FE8FDEC.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh179RkrVOkOYBI5k3H0p0SisanSc68PCUwnWoOP-mvpC1XkZDkAx9Le5o1TXi6EKuVSDUVKNtmSdoitxmGGn9m1lBGqOw_MhQ3Ykgzt28N82LwsbHIPKOs9Y1ArLKABTQjwb8KZAL2_w/w480-h640/F806CB97-3BEA-4EAF-BF2D-85330FE8FDEC.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Lunch was simply sub sandwiches with deli ham and various cheese with chips and pickles.</p><p>Dinner the second night was delicious! I made some chili at home the evening before we left and brought it in my red Dutch oven. I heated that up over the fire because why not!? We are roughing it after all! Lol!</p><p>( In hindsight, I don’t recommend doing this unless you’re using a cast iron Dutch oven that’s not glazed. I may have ruined that pot. I can’t get the blackness off and it still smells like smoke, but it was very inexpensive. I’ve used this pot it hundreds of times over the last 13 years. Lol.) You live and learn.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle6JyPMT77avxAWz6rYpL0b69DTbQVqTAk6TIeZG4CiBL_dufC-sXh5fpU0r5NKw7Km1sUBUrDI8H_OD7fus5EyEMNuKbEhDJNXom7zYHpDozepNBzj16Nvv7aHuoKAHx7NKZN9TPBRo/s2048/419EBA15-9E59-424E-A761-ED063812C3EB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle6JyPMT77avxAWz6rYpL0b69DTbQVqTAk6TIeZG4CiBL_dufC-sXh5fpU0r5NKw7Km1sUBUrDI8H_OD7fus5EyEMNuKbEhDJNXom7zYHpDozepNBzj16Nvv7aHuoKAHx7NKZN9TPBRo/w480-h640/419EBA15-9E59-424E-A761-ED063812C3EB.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2WfIAlsRkQZiUepnO256WIZlQ1y2woXYbH3WN0MQgaPWywU2T-hfP2XFgYe7SU1jWYViSPbuH-5Izx19gYtHNlF-_iVa6ctR6XpWUFk3PFetmbNNAlmFvl3o5zROT6cmd063R81cKus/s2016/BC34CA30-5993-4242-9865-BE6DE7F4ACC2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2WfIAlsRkQZiUepnO256WIZlQ1y2woXYbH3WN0MQgaPWywU2T-hfP2XFgYe7SU1jWYViSPbuH-5Izx19gYtHNlF-_iVa6ctR6XpWUFk3PFetmbNNAlmFvl3o5zROT6cmd063R81cKus/w480-h640/BC34CA30-5993-4242-9865-BE6DE7F4ACC2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>We had the hearty chili with some fried cornbread made on the griddle, and we roasted a few more hotdogs for those who wanted chili dogs and finished the cheese dip. Very cozy and perfect for camping! </p><p>Dessert was the favorite of everybody’s though!.. I made a classic campfire cherry dump cake, except I cooked it over the grill! I have never made any dessert on the grill before, but I was improvising since I didn’t have a cast iron Dutch oven to make it in the fire, and the pan was too big for the camper’s oven. This grilled cherry dump cake turned out so delicious!!! Oh my word. I think we were all pleasantly surprised. It’s good enough the kids want me to make it at home, too. To serve with some vanilla or butter pecan ice cream would take it over the top! </p><p>The beauty of this recipe is that it so easy and only requires the cake mix, cherries and butter! The cinnamon and almond extract are optional. Like any <i>dump cake</i>, you simply dump or layer the ingredients.. no stirring required! This is my kind of food when camping!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yUQ8_eDFhvWyf9tHbdx0xnCUpvrSQKu_iSIovvVso57iReye0gMxIOBOAe3vzFU2e1nSteuv4CsLnnvbo9fY5rOY2uRa6G6loq6Mnv7m9QmxzdSUO6zmfKRmpvXryOLj-zmI1KvLrVE/s2016/77A804D7-CA13-4C3F-914C-D11C42A2254D.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yUQ8_eDFhvWyf9tHbdx0xnCUpvrSQKu_iSIovvVso57iReye0gMxIOBOAe3vzFU2e1nSteuv4CsLnnvbo9fY5rOY2uRa6G6loq6Mnv7m9QmxzdSUO6zmfKRmpvXryOLj-zmI1KvLrVE/w480-h640/77A804D7-CA13-4C3F-914C-D11C42A2254D.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><b>“Campfire” Cherry Dump Cake</b></p><p>1 Box Yellow Cake Mix</p><p>1 Can Cherry Pie Filling</p><p>1 Stick of Butter, Melted (1/2 c.)</p><p>A sprinkle of Cinnamon, optional</p><p>1 tsp. Almond Extract, optional, I didn’t use this</p><p>-Spray or butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. (Sometimes I just rub the butter’s wax paper after I’ve taken the butter out of it.)</p><p>-Mix the almond extract, if using, with the cherries and pour the can of cherries into the pan and spread evenly. </p><p>-Sprinkle the box of dry cake mix over the top of the cherries. Drizzle melted butter over the dry cake mix, although it won’t cover all the cake mix and that’s ok. </p><p>-Lightly sprinkle cinnamon all over, if using. It’s as simple as that! </p><p>-Bake in an oven for about 50 minutes or until light golden brown. Or bake it on a closed grill set on med-high for about 20-30 minutes. I don’t have an exact time for this because I just winged it. But I would say to check every 10 minutes or so and take off when you can start to smell it and it becomes light golden brown and bubbly. It took me about 25 minutes to bake!</p><p>-Let cool enough to eat and enjoy! We loved this super simple dessert!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I hope this gives you some easy, simple ideas for your next camping trip! We don’t always eat so rich, and we did have some fruit in there and lots of water, but overall we were doing a lot of biking and the kids were playing non-stop outside so this food fueled us well. Summertime is basically here, and my family is here for it! Let me know if you</span><span style="text-align: left;"> make either of these delicious recipes and let me know what you think.</span></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-43008455652782968142021-05-11T16:59:00.005-05:002021-05-11T18:47:23.173-05:00The Cozy Little Cabin!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3g-vAo6tMwZhJwkyP0b4BoV9DQ3mzHNDHDOMrdJTghhYjt_3v9UQaaAMSH-toJRnELHbcrSi3c_wMr0qTufdGid7eblDg-zSCuEKrkqrufCuX4QPGgUGBc_hNAvFj1fI50-BliP1FgPs/s2048/8DED2F06-0B6F-4722-A9A6-B1915C013383.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3g-vAo6tMwZhJwkyP0b4BoV9DQ3mzHNDHDOMrdJTghhYjt_3v9UQaaAMSH-toJRnELHbcrSi3c_wMr0qTufdGid7eblDg-zSCuEKrkqrufCuX4QPGgUGBc_hNAvFj1fI50-BliP1FgPs/w400-h400/8DED2F06-0B6F-4722-A9A6-B1915C013383.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>There’s been so much going on the last month with soccer season and just all the things, and I’ve just decided if I don’t have time to share frequently in this space, <i>I will not sweat it.</i> Because it was actually that very reason why I ultimately had to say good-bye the last time here. I felt terrible for being an inconsistent writer, however, I am learning my most consistent priorities have to be limited in order to pour my best self into the right things. </p><p>Those consistent priorities are time spent with Jesus, my family, and my ministry —leading worship/women. Everything else fits between those priorities..... and that’s why I’m not a pro blogger!! Ha. ;)</p><p>However ... I’m excited today, because I have so much to talk about with you!!! Where do I begin??</p><p>I would love to start with the fact we went camping last weekend but back that up a bit. </p><p>Let’s start off with...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5Bk64f_E6hajIguKhRP4u3N19sAAbcpZ8sGeMF0Dvj61xSLS4lv654N_rbxfJ_QC7QHBhiX9uoDwkdJTCQlVV6hJP5Gswksf2pp5C4Vvf1msYO1wiu4UGSZK0VkcRDfJTNG9TG1Tv0k/s2016/3494CD39-D6F8-4B5D-B19D-B7D91716338B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5Bk64f_E6hajIguKhRP4u3N19sAAbcpZ8sGeMF0Dvj61xSLS4lv654N_rbxfJ_QC7QHBhiX9uoDwkdJTCQlVV6hJP5Gswksf2pp5C4Vvf1msYO1wiu4UGSZK0VkcRDfJTNG9TG1Tv0k/w480-h640/3494CD39-D6F8-4B5D-B19D-B7D91716338B.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><p>We bought a tiny cabin by the lake!!!!</p><p>Yep. After passively looking for almost 2 years now, the right little fixer-upper popped up in real estate. I don’t know if it’s like this where you live, but the real estate market here in my neck of the woods of KY is HOT. Houses are literally flying off the market and selling above their value right and left. We almost didn’t get this house but thankfully we snagged it after it hardly being on the market a week! </p><p>It’s a tiny cutie-patootie of a place. It is 51 years old and just under 800 square feet + a full length screened-in front porch— which is so useful in our humid-mosquito summer season. The cabin is a 2 bedroom, one bath with a tiny kitchen open to the living room. It has a great brick fireplace which will be even better by the time we are done with it, but I like even the brick of the chimney outside against the wood! Something about the setting of that under the pine trees feels nostalgic to me.The cabin sits on 1/3 of an acre on the end of a small street with backs up to over 100 acres of TVA woods. That means, no one will ever build around it and the woods will be undisturbed so lots of wildlife and quiet views. One of the best parts.... just through a thin patch of woods is the lake! We have a lake view that’s much better in the winter than summer, however, once we clear some of the grown-up side yard on the property we will have an even better view! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRt4wIUKkhO943sZdjQuhOkHI72Hm5jOxiIrd1ZlnRAyEp6DWz0WyZyMjmIeFvOA5ITop5wfn9q3NHdPkTOV00z4bPx63W6stSkq3aOiET5QeavCEf7eZjSWamcYY5yW25AWEzbZETpAc/s2016/B755F508-4158-4BC0-8641-BC0A2DBFEB50.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRt4wIUKkhO943sZdjQuhOkHI72Hm5jOxiIrd1ZlnRAyEp6DWz0WyZyMjmIeFvOA5ITop5wfn9q3NHdPkTOV00z4bPx63W6stSkq3aOiET5QeavCEf7eZjSWamcYY5yW25AWEzbZETpAc/w480-h640/B755F508-4158-4BC0-8641-BC0A2DBFEB50.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><p>We have so much vision for this little place! It needs a bunch of TLC—more like a gut— because it’s been a seasonal fishing cabin for a long time now, but the potential is great! It’s full of classic, rustic cabin charm of being by the lake on a quiet street with woods. We can envision our family going out there on weekends to stay so we can be out on the lake to fish or kayak or one day boat around and just play on the beautiful Kentucky Lake. The kids are already exploring the woods and are building a “fort”, so they get the woods they have been wanting since we moved away from woods a few years ago. We can see bonfires outside on some Adirondack chairs under the stars as we eat messy s’mores in the crisp fall. Morning coffee sitting on the porch under the fans and cozy nights by the fireplace in a cozy living room reminding my husband and I of the first 10 years of our life in tiny homes. Hopefully there will be family gatherings, friends celebrations, and grill-outs when the weather is just right! I can see flower gardens and an herb garden around the property. Possibly a flower box spilling over with geranium on the side. I want this place to bless missionaries passing through our church or whomever the Lord lays on our heart. I want this cabin to be an extension of our home—with all the hospitality and Holy Spirit peace to rest and welcome all who enter!</p><p>But FIRST. It needs lots of work!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIAWYEMdND4t-yM8VwgMDZFOxk6pKjEyay6OHAkR7zLViQdv3QXqQtFFRRrPt0FtCMk2OZ1TQHcVZsnMCO0P3auJXsOv7MIQD6XGxCjqcIuKctAlFMSJgoC_qXhN4J2byfoQe2Yx4DcQ/s1938/CB05382C-9AE2-4B98-AD7A-FBE1964C7600.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1938" data-original-width="1454" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIAWYEMdND4t-yM8VwgMDZFOxk6pKjEyay6OHAkR7zLViQdv3QXqQtFFRRrPt0FtCMk2OZ1TQHcVZsnMCO0P3auJXsOv7MIQD6XGxCjqcIuKctAlFMSJgoC_qXhN4J2byfoQe2Yx4DcQ/w480-h640/CB05382C-9AE2-4B98-AD7A-FBE1964C7600.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>I’ve begun to clean the inside at baseline (I’d rather have my germs than anyone else’s in the house, even if will are ripping almost everything out eventually.) Heath has already began with Jayden’s help to clean up the outside. He’s mowed and weed-eated, blown the drive and the roof and gutters and trimmed some bushes. We will be hauling some trash away that was left and start to clear some side woods. We need to pressure wash the paved area and the outside and I want to paint the doors. We will absolutely be hiring out professionals for most of the work inside the house, because it will be extensive and we want it all done right! It will need new of almost everything!! The fireplace will just be spruced and I’m hoping to keep the outside doors and the neat washboard double sink in the kitchen—I think it can be refinished!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0w3OT49lCmPEwF1kGWf7hGXH9BVvZnpjjNsalGEpM9DHJmvbJBwzClk8ITFPxCrHPMyPVgLG6nyTObMWYUygpPz0R6rW6g7rYyL5UvPr-DUhmliKJWwUC8oXlXT4wo7Zj-mauu5cRXwE/s2016/5DA8511A-0EA6-428A-911C-463D3EFD66CD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0w3OT49lCmPEwF1kGWf7hGXH9BVvZnpjjNsalGEpM9DHJmvbJBwzClk8ITFPxCrHPMyPVgLG6nyTObMWYUygpPz0R6rW6g7rYyL5UvPr-DUhmliKJWwUC8oXlXT4wo7Zj-mauu5cRXwE/w480-h640/5DA8511A-0EA6-428A-911C-463D3EFD66CD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><p>SO... we absolutely believe the Lord has given us this place. </p><p>If you know us, you know we love a project and putting on the vision goggles to see potential. An old, dirty place doesn’t scare us like it does some people. We see beauty and that can come from ordinary, roughed up places. Anybody else out there like the story that comes from older homes more than starting from scratch? It’s never as straight forward, but it’s a redemption project every time. </p><p>I am thrilled for this journey in our lives, and so glad you can join us in this space to see bits and pieces along the way.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEYelljKWQUmLXiqvFPrFQtwXTtJQC7JMIM3vhJnQRnzpoVxS1L4WufB-s9np78Z8CCJv99zut424-VupJ3_LH3Km531NptpWq88R9QBuSXZr_Q6myH1ZdL9L2GiNIiTQza7csmPXPXo/s2016/8CCCA0DC-DC08-4AE7-B3E4-B9662FE624BD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEYelljKWQUmLXiqvFPrFQtwXTtJQC7JMIM3vhJnQRnzpoVxS1L4WufB-s9np78Z8CCJv99zut424-VupJ3_LH3Km531NptpWq88R9QBuSXZr_Q6myH1ZdL9L2GiNIiTQza7csmPXPXo/w480-h640/8CCCA0DC-DC08-4AE7-B3E4-B9662FE624BD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p>This will be <i>The Cozy Little Cabin!!! </i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>P.S. I can reply to your comments now—yay!!!! So be sure and leave one, if you want! I would love to know if you are like us and love seeing old or abandoned things get a new life more than starting with a clean slate. Both are probably fun, but I’m a bit like Erin and Ben Napier — I like preserving some of the history and story in a place!</p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-62938751125060618942021-04-28T07:51:00.008-05:002021-04-28T16:52:38.283-05:00The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Tortilla Soup<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixx2GarFv0qaCyderl0-sIJhj7uiA8jX2mcVUkiGyTXTdyNV_pj8n79ai2-GFyk4bCKedq3p8nhvsQOjZC5MhKcZ9jvrEFncpLlhfjGwvGX-B0eCLBh5JrcGTBUMk3u7JJ4VUQQPZEgns/s1989/EBEB7241-DD5B-4A64-B2C1-BB59A68B8570.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1989" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixx2GarFv0qaCyderl0-sIJhj7uiA8jX2mcVUkiGyTXTdyNV_pj8n79ai2-GFyk4bCKedq3p8nhvsQOjZC5MhKcZ9jvrEFncpLlhfjGwvGX-B0eCLBh5JrcGTBUMk3u7JJ4VUQQPZEgns/w486-h640/EBEB7241-DD5B-4A64-B2C1-BB59A68B8570.jpeg" width="486" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since my life has blown up into full time mom, I have a swath of tried and true recipes that I make over and over that are just dependably delicious and my whole family loves! I get creative sometimes but there’s nothing like making a meal that you know all the people will eat. Some of these recipes are already in the archives here, and I encourage you to browse through those, but I’m excited to share with you some others...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This Pioneer Woman (don’t you just LOVE her??) recipe for chicken tortilla soup is one of those go-to meals for me! My mom actually introduced me to this recipe about 7 years ago when she made it for a family meal, and we have both been making it ever since! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FC__x0fbOb0nlxq-2NJkcPb6R2F9fI1tGECT9gcy7uXe2TqvXAbn-T6ZiTsUCHTWT2vF21f_rbC956OKT3kNgByQ35HwrYiOFbZGdK9lSSUbWRH8gxSJ9O8QgLM_GJd8-pmsEIfjfM8/s2048/E32D9BEC-B7EF-4383-9CB9-C19BB850DFEB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1653" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FC__x0fbOb0nlxq-2NJkcPb6R2F9fI1tGECT9gcy7uXe2TqvXAbn-T6ZiTsUCHTWT2vF21f_rbC956OKT3kNgByQ35HwrYiOFbZGdK9lSSUbWRH8gxSJ9O8QgLM_GJd8-pmsEIfjfM8/w516-h640/E32D9BEC-B7EF-4383-9CB9-C19BB850DFEB.jpeg" width="516" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is one of my favorite cookbooks! SO many good recipes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In true Leslie fashion, I never go by a recipe to the “T”, unless perhaps it’s a cake or the first time to make something, so of course I’m always adding or replacing for this soup whatever I have on hand. It is one of those recipes that you can absolutely do that and I think Ree wouldn’t expect any less!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For example, I add a corn or or sometimes yellow hominy, and this particular time I also added a small can of green chiles—delish! I usually make this soup with roasted chicken breasts, like I did this time, but it’s so good too and easy to buy a rotisserie chicken from the grocery and shred that up for the recipe, too! (That’s an excellent tip for quick chicken recipes!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgen_9tD0AccxkVkOV835gHIAeFIkviIT5938lIw_UCEfgz7KvXMQxaMGhdxseKOTwpDjcYkzboFSo8RoFnHIyVWEkXl43B4yz_OSs3_luArerhLNuJyjpD94hYmWuCEpRULPs74vNtJs/s2016/3B132AC8-522D-4D5F-A8E9-6B6174AA4090.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgen_9tD0AccxkVkOV835gHIAeFIkviIT5938lIw_UCEfgz7KvXMQxaMGhdxseKOTwpDjcYkzboFSo8RoFnHIyVWEkXl43B4yz_OSs3_luArerhLNuJyjpD94hYmWuCEpRULPs74vNtJs/w480-h640/3B132AC8-522D-4D5F-A8E9-6B6174AA4090.jpeg" width="480" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This savory soup is amazing to top however you like your tacos. We always top with cheddar, Colby jack, or pepper jack cheese, and crushed tortilla chips! My kids prefer the crunchy chips as opposed to the tortillas she calls for in the soup. Avocado, sour cream, diced tomato and cilantro take it over the top and don’t forget a fresh squeeze lime over it all. PW’s chicken tortilla soup is a crowd pleaser, and so much fun to serve with a toppings bar for people to choose how to load their soup. Serve with a side of fresh cheese quesadillas or Mexican cornbread! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let me know if you try it and love it, too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf88cRMd_uvZk90Rcp8xEFVaEG1EvT8xb3eJJ-GOXrT9_hqvd5GLtvBPf96wgSAAp11_VzMIdAo6GHZPtpkoHqB_isQGzJQEOZ6I6abNqoXxVvuarFo1ywHl1lZF7FMZvcpoalfjNqUag/s2016/A486EC9E-16B7-4D51-B274-6F89D569A472.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf88cRMd_uvZk90Rcp8xEFVaEG1EvT8xb3eJJ-GOXrT9_hqvd5GLtvBPf96wgSAAp11_VzMIdAo6GHZPtpkoHqB_isQGzJQEOZ6I6abNqoXxVvuarFo1ywHl1lZF7FMZvcpoalfjNqUag/w480-h640/A486EC9E-16B7-4D51-B274-6F89D569A472.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Chicken Tortilla Soup</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Pioneer Woman Cooks Food From My Frontier</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Serves 8</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 1/2 tsp. Cumin</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About 1 1/4 tsp. Chili Powder </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. Salt, plus more to taste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2/3 boneless chicken breasts, depending on size</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> 2 T. Olive Oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 Diced Onion</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 Garlic Cloves, minced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 c. Diced Green Bell Pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 c. Diced Red Bell Pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 10-oz. can Rotel Tomatoes ( I’ve used diced tomatoes + the can of green chiles)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 cups low sodium Chicken Broth</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 T. Tomato Paste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 c. Hot water</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2-15 oz. cans Black Beans (I sub one out for corn)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 T. Cornmeal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5 small Tortillas</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Toppings of your choice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Directions: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(These may seem extensive but I’m presenting them as she does, in steps. It’s really simple actually.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Start by mixing together the cumin, 1 tsp. chili powder, garlic powder and salt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 T. olive oil.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Sprinkle with 1 tsp. of spice mixture and set the rest aside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from oven.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Shred the chicken with a fork and set aside.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. Next, heat the remaining 1 T olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Throw in onion and peppers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8. Throw in a teaspoon of the spice mixture used to season the chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">9. Add a little extra chili powder.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">10. Stir to cook and soften the veggies until they start to turn brown. About 5 minutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">11. Add the shredded chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">12. The Rotel, juice and all.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">13. Add the chicken broth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">14. The tomato paste and hot water. Stir to combine and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">15. Next add the drained black beans and corn, if using. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">16. Then mix together with cornmeal with 1/2 c water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">17. Add the mixture to the pot and simmer soup fro at least 10-15 minutes. Give it a taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">18. Cut tortillas into strips 2-3 inches long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">19. Stir them into the soup. (I don’t do this part often but it does add a good texture to the soup.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">20. Ladle into bowl and top however you please then squeeze fresh lime.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_GTUlPNUOLJ0D3XHnKU3VDlsNPRuycdUcHabI5OjtlJXxdL2PLTgsLDNOmFoJptj6O5cfllI9SLf3ZaoEFLQfofb5rEoQhyphenhyphenEyqzIdtBJjs3NwGgAxctMKzeDAWG2oy9QS86Hsj1AYgo/s1890/DD7DF011-FE3A-4A90-A744-64D196EC296B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1890" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_GTUlPNUOLJ0D3XHnKU3VDlsNPRuycdUcHabI5OjtlJXxdL2PLTgsLDNOmFoJptj6O5cfllI9SLf3ZaoEFLQfofb5rEoQhyphenhyphenEyqzIdtBJjs3NwGgAxctMKzeDAWG2oy9QS86Hsj1AYgo/w512-h640/DD7DF011-FE3A-4A90-A744-64D196EC296B.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you like this recipe, also check out my very simple <a href="https://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/search?q=Taco+soup">Taco Soup</a> that’s perfect for chilly evenings.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-65591731734182777742021-04-15T16:53:00.006-05:002021-04-15T19:23:44.852-05:00Ultimate Blueberry Muffins & Words on Hospitality<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5sFwhlU4gaRoSMwmKefy-2V5R-rcV7Jo7uBas2GtWh4TwcfbY-otRMOIZlsl7XnsVHKeixMw2xgc4LDzlQegIRPihJCfRGKTRTQndCtsDr1oJ_kKdziwTulily0a91rRvaB5RtDFtac/s1864/EA25E4AA-60D1-4508-8653-A8FA096C4891.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1864" data-original-width="1379" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5sFwhlU4gaRoSMwmKefy-2V5R-rcV7Jo7uBas2GtWh4TwcfbY-otRMOIZlsl7XnsVHKeixMw2xgc4LDzlQegIRPihJCfRGKTRTQndCtsDr1oJ_kKdziwTulily0a91rRvaB5RtDFtac/w474-h640/EA25E4AA-60D1-4508-8653-A8FA096C4891.jpeg" width="474" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Blueberries are in season! As you know, when berries come into season not only do the patches open, which are so much fun, but their prices drop in the grocery stores, their flavor intensifies and they are oh-so juicy! Blueberry muffins have always been a staple in our home, and over the years I’ve made them using many different recipes — most of which are here in my blog, such as this one. I’m not married to any particular one, but I might be now! <i>These</i> blueberry muffins with streusel topping were some of the very best muffins we’ve have eaten!!</p><p>I made these blueberry muffins along with the tried and true <a href="http://thecozylittlekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-leisurely-afternoons-banana-double.html">all-time favorite banana chip muffins </a>to go along with a platter of fruit for our friends when they arrived last week for a relaxed time of hanging out. We took a neighborhood walk together and allowed our kids to play to their heart’s content as we caught up on all the things! To have another woman in the same season of life as a friend is a true gift! We’re dear friends with this family that we’ve known all our life, and their children are all about our kids ages which is just perfect for everybody! Everyone has a playmate and the best thing is that they live down the road from us! So thankful, yet again, for this house we live in because we are surrounded by friends.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7ZBb_hg8XfbHbgMkhYe6C3kCK2AkZbyZVzTR2M_Hvp2-OMZbsp1qNnlGnMJLfwxbFAJeH4vTXcyiJKjlqSJxp-WKrj3GM7WlaOdVUIecJojkDB0MCHscWFerjEqJb93k4bBIoi2LUOs/s2016/A5291BF7-93BA-4674-B606-5BA3744DED6E.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7ZBb_hg8XfbHbgMkhYe6C3kCK2AkZbyZVzTR2M_Hvp2-OMZbsp1qNnlGnMJLfwxbFAJeH4vTXcyiJKjlqSJxp-WKrj3GM7WlaOdVUIecJojkDB0MCHscWFerjEqJb93k4bBIoi2LUOs/w480-h640/A5291BF7-93BA-4674-B606-5BA3744DED6E.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p>We haven’t had many people over in the last year with the virus and all, so my inner-hospitality is just hopping inside anticipating the arrival of company! So, I made not one but two different kinds of muffins and a spread of fresh fruit for us all to munch on!</p><p>Hospitality is something I’m pretty passionate about because it’s been one of the main ways I’ve been ministered to over and over again my adult life! I even wrote a short memoir/testimony how the Lord used hospitality in a book that my sweet real-life friend, <a href="https://kristinhilltaylor.com/">Kristin Hill Taylor </a>published called <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Home-More-Than-Groceries/dp/B08FKYDN3S/ref=nodl_">Bringing Home More Than Groceries</a></u>! I can’t recommend this book enough if you feel like you like the idea of hospitality but don’t think you’re in the right phase of life for it... Kristin shows just how easy it is to bring others into your life and home right where you are. It’s a book so practical, encouraging, and chock full of real life experiences, and one of those stories is mine! I genuinely hope you check it out if you need another 2021 read! (BTW, I wasn’t asked to plug this book and I get nothing in return if you buy it other than the joy of knowing it made your list of books!)</p><p>Hospitality is just a fancy word for making someone feel welcome! If I know that someone is coming over ahead of time, I prepare for them by tidying up the house, always doing a clean-sweep in the powder room, and making something I can serve them to munch on! There’s always the option of cozy drink such as coffee freshly brewed or hot tea in the chilly months, and in the summer I may have iced tea or coffee or lemonade. Even just having water with lemon slices available if there’s nothing else, is nice. </p><p>I love to be able to offer up some cookies or muffins or maybe even chocolates that we always keep. Lately, I’ve whipped up cheese boards or “charcuterie” with sliced meat, cheese, olives, pickles, crackers, nuts and fruit or just whatever nosh I can find around the kitchen. It looks much fancier than it really is and it’s satisfying. This is easy if you have an unannounced visitor pop-in, as we have more frequently over the last couple of years, to grab a cutting board or pretty plate and mound up delicious things in a pretty way. </p><p>The goal is never to impress (that’s entertaining), but instead to make them feel welcome, loved and to satisfy their soul. I want them to experience a moment of the peace of Jesus when they’re around my home even if the kids are running laps! And if you are anything like me, food is a good way into deeper conversation, because it requires lingering and it can be relaxing. It’s easier to unwind over a meal or get cozy with a delicious drink enjoyed together on the porch!</p><p>Sometimes hospitality looks like when my neighbor friend walked over after losing her mama, I could sit down and just listen to her heart or bring over dinner in response. </p><p>Hospitality takes noticing others and responding— a lot like Jesus did. </p><p>Like I said, hospitality isn’t hard at all! All it requires is a smile, and an attitude that is present so you can <i>enjoy</i> your company. That is what’s welcoming and that is simply hospitality! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRihFduByl7PJEQE45u9NFYvyQxOH4pJ9gQcDXOA6QuKjT9oKIhegB1wFaK41WG-k2FhV4Due5h_Mww1X2kt_-3oEaTBbVb2oW65paz1Pn2RVprz3OqmUW02dDX02_r_Uo5lrDh6YV0o/s2016/2D83C6FD-9C6E-4EB4-87DE-A29CC316909C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRihFduByl7PJEQE45u9NFYvyQxOH4pJ9gQcDXOA6QuKjT9oKIhegB1wFaK41WG-k2FhV4Due5h_Mww1X2kt_-3oEaTBbVb2oW65paz1Pn2RVprz3OqmUW02dDX02_r_Uo5lrDh6YV0o/w480-h640/2D83C6FD-9C6E-4EB4-87DE-A29CC316909C.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Rosemary is the sweetest little helper in the kitchen! She seriously pulls up a chair when I start to bake and wants to help. Of course, many times I just let her watch or give her some of her own bowls and spoons to pretend with, but sometimes I do let her in on the fun, like pouring in the ingredients or stirring.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSZnBn8a96a7pw80V4n5QY1h5-N6N0i6_k1QXciI429xWHwgViSYZ62NxHLtu1r-Pa3_YccsYq4IEQYF7Tj5qYr6J8dVtjGQ1d7BW6B7tgm83NAL0CjNvNVPmv-YBmLbgwmlerqILpTw/s1942/E325B67F-3CBD-4474-A33C-AEBAA90EF13F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1942" data-original-width="1477" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSZnBn8a96a7pw80V4n5QY1h5-N6N0i6_k1QXciI429xWHwgViSYZ62NxHLtu1r-Pa3_YccsYq4IEQYF7Tj5qYr6J8dVtjGQ1d7BW6B7tgm83NAL0CjNvNVPmv-YBmLbgwmlerqILpTw/w486-h640/E325B67F-3CBD-4474-A33C-AEBAA90EF13F.jpeg" width="486" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She is my test-tester extraordinaire as she demonstrates here with the chocolate chips for banana muffins!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqki9HQ5saWnMlmMLz3n8NMwriei_BeKoAQ2QMJHRp7am6iT0kEgao07lsj7BYxaFw4sWKixhpB48Tw8YhkPyN3oxECYAgIfACx8S__A363aBXDXW_uSajBsmg-fhxweRpAewU6Z2DsoM/s1967/4A35C685-3229-4F62-887E-D98CF7DCBFD1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1967" data-original-width="1448" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqki9HQ5saWnMlmMLz3n8NMwriei_BeKoAQ2QMJHRp7am6iT0kEgao07lsj7BYxaFw4sWKixhpB48Tw8YhkPyN3oxECYAgIfACx8S__A363aBXDXW_uSajBsmg-fhxweRpAewU6Z2DsoM/w472-h640/4A35C685-3229-4F62-887E-D98CF7DCBFD1.jpeg" width="472" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>“To Die For” Blueberry Muffins </b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Recipe from Allrecipes</div><p style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 c. All Purpose Flour</p><p style="text-align: left;">3/4 c. White Sugar</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp. Salt</p><p style="text-align: left;">2 tsp. Baking Powder</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/3 c. Vegetable or Canola Oil</p><p style="text-align: left;">1 Egg (I always prefer extra large in my baking)</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/3 c. Milk or more as needed</p><p style="text-align: left;">1 c. Fresh Blueberries— honestly, I would add another 1/3 cup that it calls for</p><p style="text-align: left;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/2 c. White Sugar</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/3 c. All-Purpose Flour</p><p style="text-align: left;">1/4 c. (Real) Butter, cubed</p><p style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line muffin pan with paper liners or spray with baking spray.</p><p style="text-align: left;">2. Combine flour, sugar, salt and baking powder in a large bowl. Place oil in a 1 cup measuring cup and crack egg inside. Add enough milk to bring it up to the 1- cup mark. Stir together well. Fold these wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Add the blueberries (best part!) and gently fold in. </p><p style="text-align: left;">3. Streusel Topping: Combine, flour sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut/mix in the butter using a fork until crumbly. </p><p style="text-align: left;">4. Fill the muffin cups to the top with batter and sprinkle on the streusel topping. Yum!!</p><p style="text-align: left;">5. Bake 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKD3Un-7u8C-RnLY-4zfCE066WKCe9wBB1CmRZPY8ZTWPeawSnWs3YbYX-sCzE2HBWLB6O5I_JojLUvM_Sm4hPPDVGgN2Mvf4XpayDCpIQlfqEXSyzg9v-HzpdguuuqaD_p28yovX3Cw/s1910/B6162767-65CA-4965-B5C6-98D32F49BCFE.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1910" data-original-width="1462" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKD3Un-7u8C-RnLY-4zfCE066WKCe9wBB1CmRZPY8ZTWPeawSnWs3YbYX-sCzE2HBWLB6O5I_JojLUvM_Sm4hPPDVGgN2Mvf4XpayDCpIQlfqEXSyzg9v-HzpdguuuqaD_p28yovX3Cw/w490-h640/B6162767-65CA-4965-B5C6-98D32F49BCFE.jpeg" width="490" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><p>In my last blog, I told you that I am here to pray for you, and if you have a need to please share it with us and I will pray.</p><p>I received a prayer request from a sweet reader named Mary. I just wanted her to know that I am praying for her daughter, Ruth! I’m sorry she’s in so much pain due to fibromyalgia! I’m sure as a momma that’s heartbreaking. The Lord wants to be her source of strength in her body and wants to provide her needs and he will do so!</p><p>So I will keep praying over her, and I invite all prayer warriors in this space to join with me in faith and in the name of Jesus, to lift Ruth up!! God is faithful to hear our cries!</p><p><br /></p><p><i>When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears them and delivers them out of all their troubles. </i></p><p><i>Psalm 34:17</i></p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-49637962569842055982021-04-11T22:46:00.003-05:002021-04-12T06:59:36.711-05:00Thank you!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9Un6glr1otEnDfPZYtJVRXpOR2_wDHdDstw1ZjK1fuT3aeIMN_LGtFdMzKw7kx4G8_6h45st18n74QDEea_WSFrK3lxkrcT-qvpqua6edwvITYw72qPIiFDTo8n92m1Ls-SmCG1h5yY/s2048/6C547971-A217-4574-89A8-D80BD7F25E69.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9Un6glr1otEnDfPZYtJVRXpOR2_wDHdDstw1ZjK1fuT3aeIMN_LGtFdMzKw7kx4G8_6h45st18n74QDEea_WSFrK3lxkrcT-qvpqua6edwvITYw72qPIiFDTo8n92m1Ls-SmCG1h5yY/w480-h640/6C547971-A217-4574-89A8-D80BD7F25E69.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div></div><p> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> <i>Thank you!!!!</i></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><i>Your response to my returning to blogging has meant so much to me! At the moment I’ve run into a couple technical issues with Blogger that I’m getting sorted out, but that’s why I haven’t been able to reply to all your beautiful comments! I am sorry, but please know I’m reading them all, and I am thrilled to hear from each of you!</i></div></blockquote><p>I hope you all have had a beautiful Sunday and found yourself able to rest in the Prince of Peace Himself through whatever trial you may be walking, praying, praising or crying your way through. </p><p>It would be an honor to pray for you if you need it. Reach out and let me know if you have a specific prayer request or just say “I need prayer today”, anytime you need it! You may not have another person in your life to pray for you, but I sure will! </p><p>There’s nothing like knowing someone is also coming along side you, in the name of Jesus, and declaring the Word of the Lord over your life. Thankfully, I have parents and close friends we can reach out to, and for that I’m so very thankful! </p><p>Hope you have a good night’s sleep before the fresh week begins.</p><p>GN</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Be anxious for nothing, but in everything with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, bring your requests to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Jesus Christ. </i></p><p><i>Philippians 4:6-7</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-65767522670426432312021-04-09T16:52:00.002-05:002021-04-09T17:10:30.831-05:00Simply Strawberry Shortcake Trifle <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM757N58IyXnEBvvJIJTjxUx2knOqb0vZ2oje17kgpvR1iMpwkJSCK3HQAewi7P8YYTMJIrb5_t84FQJ7UzER5rrYSIRXxE238Dij0iB82spLxA2GduqVw5_BKZTTyAosprWJ3gqn7WJ8/s2016/D00456CC-DE24-48CA-B518-AF278B5FF85A.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM757N58IyXnEBvvJIJTjxUx2knOqb0vZ2oje17kgpvR1iMpwkJSCK3HQAewi7P8YYTMJIrb5_t84FQJ7UzER5rrYSIRXxE238Dij0iB82spLxA2GduqVw5_BKZTTyAosprWJ3gqn7WJ8/w480-h640/D00456CC-DE24-48CA-B518-AF278B5FF85A.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I mentioned, I have been living a <i>very</i> full family and ministry life for the last several years! It’s by the grace of God alone, because it’s a life I’ve always wanted and yet I have found myself very short on time for myself (hello motherhood!) and to write which is in part why I’ve been off this platform for so long. With three busy children and homeschooling mama as a new title, we are a “full time family”. Add a bustling home and property to care for on the daily to make anybody slow their cooking game. I’ve primarily simplified my cooking and baking to things that are absolutely delicious yet super simple to make! I have a rotation of favorites I pull from and incorporate some new recipes from time to time. I rarely have time for a 25 step recipe with little hands helping or when there are sibling squabbles to keep at bay and add the bit of mommy brain I developed since bringing home my last little one—anybody else? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I decided instead of my not sharing recipes because I’m not making extraordinary things, I should absolutely share my go-to simple food! I’m reminded there are probably other people wanting and needing delicious easy home cooked food to feed their loved ones, like me! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you can relate, you will LOVE this easy, classic recipe of strawberry shortcake for a crowd! If you have several to serve or need a dish to take to your next summer gathering, this could be your new favorite!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I’ve been making this for a few years now and it’s always loved!! Turn strawberry shortcake into something easy without preparing a dozen individual plates. Best thing— you can make it ahead of time! I promise the flavors will be even better as they marry together for a few hours before eating. It takes the guess work out of your dessert so you can focus on grilling the burgers or making the best baked beans ever—recipe will be coming soon the blog! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Over the years I’ve made slight variations on this. I’ve made it with store bought lemon pound cake, angel food cake, yellow butter cake that I’ve baked from a box or you can always used broken up homemade short cakes if you wanted to be completely from scratch. I’ve made it using blueberries and strawberries with the lemon pound cake for a lemon berry trifle, which was amazing! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They all have the same three general components: cake, (homemade) whipped cream, and berries. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This time I used my favorite store bought cake from Kroger, the sour cream bundt cake, which is like pound cake, that you can find in their bakery. It is perfect for this recipe and it soaks up the strawberry juices without making the cake too soggy. I used macerated strawberries and a scratch made vanilla whipped cream using vanilla bean paste, a fave!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made a large strawberry shortcake trifle one for our family’s Easter celebration at my In-Loves’ house, and it was completely eaten!! I couldn’t believe it, because it was a big one. I had enough leftover ingredients to make this one for our family of 5 this week, so I got an heirloom cut glass bowl which was just beautiful! I think Heath’s Granny would approve!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3Jw6WwAo5KT5eKQJFGgrTnOlMqWufDts3lIPaxFkMqhnNIBaSY0ycfPSKk6LldSQ1m1kXG6btpE_KFjI3VayggDr-FcvYC71Sy28qx6DK4fRmT7mjATUbi9AASP42BtGpoWzX0MVhlc/s515/F7B4CE9A-659C-4912-A075-AFB48C208E3B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="412" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3Jw6WwAo5KT5eKQJFGgrTnOlMqWufDts3lIPaxFkMqhnNIBaSY0ycfPSKk6LldSQ1m1kXG6btpE_KFjI3VayggDr-FcvYC71Sy28qx6DK4fRmT7mjATUbi9AASP42BtGpoWzX0MVhlc/w512-h640/F7B4CE9A-659C-4912-A075-AFB48C208E3B.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><b>Strawberry Shortcake Trifle</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 lbs. Strawberries</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/3 c.-1/2 c. Granulated Sugar (depending on how ripe your berries are)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pound cake or Angel Food Cake</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> (You probably won’t use it all for a regular sized trifle dish.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 pint. Heavy Whipping Cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/4 c. Granulated Sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 tsp. Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First wash and cut your strawberries and place in a medium sized bowl. Stir in sugar and allow the berries to sit for at about an hour. If it hasn’t rendering enough juice, use a potato masher or fork and crush them a bit. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cut your cake into about 1- 1 1/2 inch pieces and set aside.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To make the whipped cream:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Put your very cold whipping cream in a large bowl and get out your mixer, or pour into the bowl for your stand mixer using a wire whisk, which is what I usually use. Begin on medium speed and add vanilla and sugar while it’s mixing. Once it reaches soft peaks, crank up to high and watch carefully as you don’t want to make butter! Stop mixing once you have a stiff peak that will hold up well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Assemble your trifle:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Using a trifle bowl or other deep clear bowl, place a little bit (about 1/4 cup) of berries and juice on the bottom. We do this so none of the cake is dry—like you would start with a touch of sauce on the bottom when making lasagna.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Layer about 1/3 of your cake cubes on next. Be sure you bring it over to the sides so it’s pretty. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Add a layer of strawberries, again, bringing out to the sides.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Layer about 1/3 of the whipped cream, again, bringing out to the sides. You get my drift! ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Repeat those layers again and until you get to the last of the cake. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spread out the rest of the cream in the middle to make it look pretty and add the remainder of juicy strawberries the top. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cover and refrigerate for about 2-4 hours before serving! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCX_BAdwrXgmkxE6zVW-KKKVKW2s15KhfRSjbbN-A1STn4WfYM-ISPoR6O8707sTRBRKJhrS51bZOQRvlty-gwIUFQj5cTZyLW-LCttPEz3jTzVWxbSRcyScHe0xu1nLjXnhZFuAQhS8/s2016/80B30A71-5379-4630-BC8F-35E46D89E2C2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCX_BAdwrXgmkxE6zVW-KKKVKW2s15KhfRSjbbN-A1STn4WfYM-ISPoR6O8707sTRBRKJhrS51bZOQRvlty-gwIUFQj5cTZyLW-LCttPEz3jTzVWxbSRcyScHe0xu1nLjXnhZFuAQhS8/w480-h640/80B30A71-5379-4630-BC8F-35E46D89E2C2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Scoop out with a large serving spoon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I recommend with a glass of cold milk or fresh coffee to enjoy it with.. but either way, it will be devoured!</div><br /><p></p></div>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-64183480047735597152021-04-08T17:27:00.005-05:002021-04-08T18:17:28.665-05:00Hello Again!!!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEENrd8xjtOQBL1YQp9XVmE-oQ9Zf5rPefC4MxpRrSuIZFIxcqra4f3KkcxAa6-CiU4CGR-BSig3wufTX_ND-osLI1ZCh7dDac55PmnHPRftzHyCFPgwc6irKwjRtXkWla39yEbB1JfTM/s960/Easter+Family+Pic+2021.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEENrd8xjtOQBL1YQp9XVmE-oQ9Zf5rPefC4MxpRrSuIZFIxcqra4f3KkcxAa6-CiU4CGR-BSig3wufTX_ND-osLI1ZCh7dDac55PmnHPRftzHyCFPgwc6irKwjRtXkWla39yEbB1JfTM/w480-h640/Easter+Family+Pic+2021.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello Strangers! Anybody still out there?? ;-) </div><p></p></blockquote><p>I find myself back here after nearly three years have passed!!! I honestly thought I may never have another moment to spare for writing, but over the last few months my heart keeps yearning to be back in this space in some capacity. </p><p>I haven't read or followed a blog in years. My leisure time online has been on Instagram as a busy mom who feels like I don't have much time to read a beautiful blog and enjoy it's contents--much less write one-- so I've chosen IG to be able to jump on for like 3-5 minutes at a time. But I've missed this!</p><p>Above is the latest snapshot picture of my family taken just a few days ago on Resurrection Sunday (Easter) at one of our favorite restaurants in the area, <a href="https://www.pattis1880s.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patti's 1800's Settlement</a>. We just enjoyed a delicious dinner with my family, and posed by their water wheel. As you can see, the children have grown like little weeds!</p><p>Our baby, Rosemary Grace, whom I last wrote about on here is all of three years old now! </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><p></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD-x5yd1fpfD7Lf7Y-QSUDxav7EMBnrgQawxPy0AvA7n3EZq59UdNbTD5FW_iLxF_nKflSJKF3HMnTcYYBDYkjBvR8cd36m4ZNg_mdKMnlzROz4hUaKa2J9KZlyhEfDizeFd3h3REyUo/s1800/Rosemary+Morning+Glory.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD-x5yd1fpfD7Lf7Y-QSUDxav7EMBnrgQawxPy0AvA7n3EZq59UdNbTD5FW_iLxF_nKflSJKF3HMnTcYYBDYkjBvR8cd36m4ZNg_mdKMnlzROz4hUaKa2J9KZlyhEfDizeFd3h3REyUo/w512-h640/Rosemary+Morning+Glory.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>She's truly as beautiful and even more precious in real life as she appears! This girl was born with a heart of gold that overflows with affection and love! We bonded instantly after we adopted her at birth! There was actually no transition period with her, and I held her for the first 6 months of her life just being in awe of the miracle she is. She is currently at a very mischievous stage which has kept me on my toes, on my knees (in prayer), and in the rocking chair as she is a cuddly koala who loves to hear her mama sing! And at the sink continually washing her off from her messes...(girlie loves sneaking chocolate and getting it everywhere!)</p><p>My older kids, Jayden and Kylie are 11 and 10 years old! Babies don't keep, as they say, and they have become amazing big siblings to their little sister that Kylie basically prayed into our family! Kylie was always the little sister and now she is very much the big sister who is a great help to me.</p><p>Some big changes over the last three years include moving houses. We are finally in the one we plan on staying in for a long while -- </p><p>-- Hallelujah! --</p><p>-- thankfully as this is our ninth home since being married for almost 17 years. There was a time we were moving on average about every 20 months or so, and we were very ready to get rooted and established. We absolutely love our home and neighborhood and we believe the Lord gave us this home, which is another story in itself.</p><p>We are now a homeschooling family! That is something I never in a million years thought I would be saying, even just a couple years ago. We made this huge decision not because of the virus, but the virus made it a great year to begin. This was a call from the Lord! We knew He called our family to this, which is the best reason we should do anything! The Lord had been leading my husband and I down the path of discussing and praying over homeschooling a few months before it was confirmed in our hearts, this is what our family needs right now! This is a very personal decision and we are seeing some fruit come out of it. It hasn't been "easy," although most things that are growing good fruit don't come easy.</p><p>I say we are homeschooling "right now," because we pray every year about what we should do regarding school. I won't get into details now, but it has been a unique blessing in many ways that I didn't foresee a few years ago, and it's been one of the biggest challenges of my motherhood journey as well. As long as God gives me the grace to do it, I can and will with success; although many days I feel like it's by His grace alone! To begin homeschooling, all the while training a 2/3 year old, has been a learning curve for us all. I do hope some fruits of the spirit are being sown and watered in the process. In fact, I know they are!!</p><p>I don't have time to catch up entirely, but I wanted to come and share, and just see where this goes! </p><p>My heart is for Jesus now more than ever, and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ with everyone I can so, as always, my posts will be laced with scripture and testimonies of the Lord! </p><p>I'll share on family, motherhood, gardening and of course recipes and food abounding, for that's how this blog began in 2009! I would love to talk a bit here and there more about specifics on topics such as marriage, adoption, homemaking, and what it looks like to walk with Jesus in the midst of trials. (Who doesn't need that after the year the world has experienced in 2020/21??)</p><p>I know blogs are a dime a dozen, and there are many, many more that will look more professional and beautiful and eloquent, and I so appreciate them! Here, you will continue to see bits and pieces of the simple but abundant life the Lord has given me, what He is doing in my life, what I'm learning, what He is speaking to me about and what I'm cooking in the midst of it all! </p><p>This will be a bit more of an intimate space than my social media accounts. I feel sometimes my words overflow there, so I've decided to move the majority of my thoughts and recipes of length into this space, like a home for myself online! I've made some sweet friends around the world from here!</p><p>If you love Jesus or you want to know even a bit more about Him or if you just love some grounded conversation-- I invite you into my Cozy Little Kitchen once again. </p><p>Don't forget your hot tea or coffee or cozy cocoa because I can promise you I'm not writing without a warm sipper in hand!</p><p>So good to chat with you again!!! xo</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjUJ7DBDMWv6b1jOLjQDBXScrbbAKpdIEPhCmCHSUx1EzzCr9SlbxgL_kOj1rTPy9YHwrSTVFTm1ttyy-ha7PBEL_bQlHUa7OS0UVItKdQGRS8oePozO9Ggcx9JtDhFJLI_LAGhBP6Uw/s960/morning+breakfast+nook.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjUJ7DBDMWv6b1jOLjQDBXScrbbAKpdIEPhCmCHSUx1EzzCr9SlbxgL_kOj1rTPy9YHwrSTVFTm1ttyy-ha7PBEL_bQlHUa7OS0UVItKdQGRS8oePozO9Ggcx9JtDhFJLI_LAGhBP6Uw/w480-h640/morning+breakfast+nook.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p>Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-362301780387927182018-08-14T12:37:00.001-05:002018-08-14T21:46:54.004-05:00Healing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes I feel so compelled to say something-- to write-- when something big is overflowing from my heart! There's so much joy that oozes out of seeing our children these days, and the new squishy face that stole our hearts, but the past couple weeks we've been at a bit of a crossroads of joy and sorrow. My emotions have been in highs and lows, and it's not just the exhaustion of a baby. As a woman I know that's not uncommon, especially for me (just ask my husband!), but it's been different lately. </div>
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On July 31, we quietly grieved in remembrance of our daughter, Bailey Faith, who I miscarried and birthed at the hospital 9 years ago. Some years we bawl like babies together, recollecting what we've endured...or I will eat junk food and chocolate to the high heavens. At this point, Heath and I just give each other long hugs as we just know how the other feels and send sweet text notes of love. It will never be easy to pass that date on the calendar, and that's okay. It means that we had a real daughter that we conceived together, and that we really loved her. It was a traumatic event in our life to lose her, one of the most traumatic things I've endured! My only birth story is one that was dreadful instead joyful. If I can be real with you. I couldn't have survived it without Jesus being with me, crying with me and interceding to the Father on our behalf while I was being induced and waiting to birth our lifeless little baby. I will always say that I really felt Him carry me through that awful time, and He gave me the peace I needed desperately to sustain my emotional and mental health. The support of my family, with my parents and grandparents being with us, was enormous! We didn't have to go through it alone, not in the hospital and not at the burial. But Heath...he was my rock at that time! He was the best husband I could pray for, and excels in adversity, but I didn't know how much he went through beside me the entire hospital stay. While I was sedated part of the time, he saw it all. He saw Bailey. He remembered it all. While I was in and out of it, he was there. Yes, like a training marine, he was going through the rigors of what I think of as boot camp for the professional which is medical school. Even though he worked on a cadaver by day it was nothing compared to seeing our tiny, red baby, the one we prayed years for on a table with their spirit with Jesus. There are details I'm not sure I'll ever share, on here anyway, that haunts me sometimes if I allow my thoughts to really "go there".</div>
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What I do know is that Heath, I and the Lord have endured and walked through a whole lot together!! We've climbed some mountains that looked impassable, but God said I will create a path with each step you take. <i style="text-align: center;">My words will create the ground beneath your feet. Keep walking.</i></div>
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That's how the Lord works -- sometimes in mysterious ways -- you hear it a lot, but it's true. His ways are higher, so we can't understand or comprehend most of the time the plan that He's laying out before us. The one where our family is started "for such a time as this". Only He knew when<i> this </i>would be and for what reason. In the meantime, we sorted through every single possible and probable emotion one could face on planet earth. </div>
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The journey for us really began after losing Bailey Faith. The journey that would mark mine and Heath's lives as truly knowing and loving God with eyes wide open. It's as if over the decade of infertility and miracle and loss and adoption, the Lord was saying to Heath and I ---</div>
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Why do you <i>really </i>follow Me? </div>
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Do you <i>really</i> believe Me at My word?</div>
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Do you really <i>trust </i>Me as your Father?</div>
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Do you <i>know </i>that I love you, no strings attached?</div>
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Are you willing to love Me <i>no matter</i> what I give to you, or take away?</div>
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Will You allow yourself to trust Me <i>completely </i>if I let you free fall?</div>
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That time in my life, the time when I was healing from the loss of Bailey 3 years earlier, He told me to free-fall into His love! That was very important for me to learn to do that. He specifically used the term free-fall. He let me see it in a way that I could understand: My Papa used to throw my 3 year old self high in the air and catch me without me ever wondering if I would fall. I loved Papa so much ,and knew he loved me so much, that I knew I would always land back in his big hands. </div>
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That's how my <i>Heavenly</i> Father wanted me to be with him, with my life. He wanted me to put myself out there and live like I knew<i> that I knew</i> whatever may come that I would land in His big hands. I mean absolutely whatever may come my way. I literally laid out every scary scenario in my head and told the Lord. </div>
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What if I never had children and never became a mom on earth? What if I lost another child? What if I lost another loved one? What if we have a failed adoption? What if people knew I struggled with anxiety and depression? On and on.....</div>
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<i>Leslie, I want you to live without these fears holding you back. I want you to free-fall trust Me and take Me at My Word! Step out in obedience and trust Me.</i></div>
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Knowing if He called me as the song says "out into the water" as my Father, I could trust Him. To walk in a new found freedom! It wasn't careless, but as freedom always does, it took the chains of fear and utter anxiety off that had wrapped itself around my life after losing Bailey, and it allowed me to <i>live again</i>! It was a process that at last needed me to make up my mind to not give fear a foothold anymore in my life! I had scriptures plastered in the room I was in most, the kitchen, and I read His promises to me multiple times a day. Replacing fear with Truth. Over time I began to hear clearly from God and I stepped into that! </div>
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It was that freedom that helped me share my testimony and speak for the first time in my life at a women's conference. It was how Heath and I plunged head first into a huge "Yes!!!" to God by adopting two toddlers as our entry into parenthood! I never wanted to <i>ever </i>do domestic adoption because I didn't think my heart to could take the pain if it didn't work out. But I was free falling and trusting God's call over my fear! <i>This </i>is why Kylie's middle name is Hope, and Rosemary's is Grace, and Bailey's was Faith. Our children continue to serve as a legacy of what God can create out of our pain. I always pray that they walk out their own lives with faith and hope, and in the grace of God! The nature of our Father God is in their very name!</div>
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Our full story is a journey that would probably take hundreds of pages to fully write out. In the process of learning to love the Lord will ALL my heart, All my mind, All my soul, All my strength over a course of about 6 years was intense and beautiful. He used the rock bottom places, the places you wouldn't expect to come back from, to be the place where He <i>remakes </i>us into <i>His image</i>. The place we could run and never look back, or we can reach out to Him hands surrendered and heart broken, and willing to love Him whatever the future may bring. The Lord has used our journey thus far in what I call the Refiner's fire to forge Hope that doesn't disappoint in my spirit. The outcome looks like a stronger and greater marriage, and a patchwork quilt family birthed from a barren womb. It looks like children's lives redeemed and their hearts set in security. </div>
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All the hurt and trial and mistakes and petitioning in prayer; and all the steadfastness, faithfulness and redemption from a sovereign God -- <i>all that</i> God used to bind up the broken places in our family. In every one of us. </div>
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It's because God pulled me out of the miry pit, and set my feet upon a rock, that I have moments like I did this morning -- of utter JOY uncontainable for my children!!! I love them so much it hurts. A tangible love that makes me hold my baby so close, and kiss her with a million kisses and cuddles. It makes my feet jump up and down in worship when I'm the only one in the building who thinks they could burst by standing still! I'm not perfect, of course, I have bad days and even bad weeks. I can get overwhelmed and discouraged. But there's something about the peace in the Lord that's in my marriage and in my heart that bubbles out and that reminds me what I came out of. My myriad of feelings aren't wrong, but they show that I'm alive, and I love passionately, and put myself out there and love again.</div>
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This morning I woke up and hopped in the shower very first thing. When I was in the shower I shuddered realizing Rosemary never woke up last night like she always does between 4:30-6:00 to eat. I couldn't get out of the shower fast enough to check if she was okay -- if she was still breathing. In those frantic moments that I was trying to wash out my conditioner, I told God I will love Him no matter what happens. See, <i>He understands</i> that sometimes there are residual effects from trauma that are triggers, even PTSD. Instead of feeling convicted after checking on my breathing, sleeping baby this morning, I didn't feel guilty at all for worrying about her. I felt grace extended from the Father! I felt a love so deep, even more so after a loss so deep. These emotions are complicated at the least. </div>
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-- God can handle complicated! --</div>
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I'll say it again, God can handle our complicated, if we would let Him. He is there for you!</div>
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He reassured me that He loves Rosemary more than I do, and I find myself resting in His unfailing love more than ever before. His love is the sanity and the hope that I have to live freely!!! </div>
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I decided to let you in on my life a bit more, so that I may talk to the one person who is reading that deals with complicated emotions.. I want to say to you -- God can handle those! You need to give those thoughts and emotions to Him, and allow Him be the first to know your thoughts. Ask for the truth of God's word to replace fear. Don't feel condemned or discouraged if you have experienced trauma and you're learning to do life afterwards. You are not alone! So many other Christians quietly deal with hurt and are seeking healing. But take the most comfort in that if you are a believer, you are never ever alone with Holy Spirit inside of you! He is closer than our skin! He empowers me and calms me and redirects crazy emotions to healthy ones. </div>
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He can handle you! </div>
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He can alleviate the worst of anxiety and fear. He can handle your questions. He can handle hard and messy! He did it with Abraham and Joseph and Moses and King David and Job and Hannah, (just to name a few) and <i>me.</i> He can with <i>you</i>.</div>
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I am so grateful for my family and for our marriage even more now! I am so very thankful for the relationship I have that runs deep and true with the Lord! He has put my feet upon a rock and put a new song in my mouth! He put a song in my heart that sometimes I can't hold in, so I write. </div>
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Thank you, Lord, for redemption being our story as sons and daughter of the Living God! </div>
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<i>I wanted to take a moment between writing on our adoption story to write something that I believe somebody needs to read today. It's this testimony of healing and joy after pain and loss. Like everything I write on here, this is the nutshell version; but I do understand extensive surgery --if you will-- by The Great Physician to heal my hurting faith and my hurting heart. He is gentle and gracious, and wants you to know that He wants you to run to Him and surrender. The plan He has for you is far greater than you can ever know!</i></div>
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<i>If you need to reach out for prayer, I will pray with you! Find someone to talk to you who will come along side you on your redemption road.</i></div>
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<br />Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-53329256958345808422018-07-03T09:23:00.000-05:002018-07-03T16:42:36.336-05:00Our Adoption Story Part 2-- Blessing and Breakthrough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's now the 2nd week of October, our kids are on fall break and we have just put our house on the market. It was the time to see if our investment of time and money, sweat and a lot of love, that we have put into the house was worth it all. As I talked about in part one of our journey, we were tired from everything going on in our life but our home looked more beautiful than it ever had! Our "dream" house was dreamier than ever, and my heart silently ached when we put the for sale sign in the yard; yet I knew we were doing the right thing. My faith was being stretched with our adoption and house being for sale. I wanted answers as to how it all would work out, but we moved forward trusting God would work it out.<br />
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We had a very exciting week ahead of us! Heath and I were about to get away on our very first vacation, just the two of us, since years before having children! We had planned on going on a final trip in the summer 2013, but to our delight ended up bringing home our kids much sooner than expected so our vacation was put on hold. So much has happened in the past few years, and we needed a restful, fun trip together like never before! It was an anniversary trip for us, but we decided to name this trip our Babymoon since we hoped that we would have a new baby sometime in the next year! We had this getaway planned out and booked for months, and it was going to be a <i>dream</i> trip for us. We were flying to San Francisco to spend the better part of a week on the beautiful, dramatic coastline of central California in Monterey and Carmel!! I have wanted to go to Carmel ever since I was a little girl, when I saw the original Parent Trap movie. Do you remember that classic movie starring Haley Mills? It was one of my favorites growing up. Carmel is where the character Susan lived, and her dad owned a gorgeous ranch up on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean. They rode horses to the beach and she lived a life between mountains, ocean and their ranch. Since seeing that film I've been beckoned to see what beauty lay there in real life. I knew one day I wanted to go there for myself, and I was about to this very week!<br />
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That very week had another exciting prospect. On Monday, an expectant mother was to be given our profile book! It was the first "situation" or "expectant mother" we wanted our profile book to go to. She was looking for a couple who couldn't have children themselves and married at least 7 years, and we fit the bill. I prayed over it and was drawn to this woman and her situation, so we had signed up a few weeks before for the agency to show our profile book to her and the day had finally arrived! Although it was exciting we didn't have high expectations. There were 10 profile books given to this expectant mother, so that means we would be one of 10 couples lives that she would be sifting though deciding which home she wanted to lovingly place her baby in. It has to be <i>huge </i>deal on her part,I can't imagine. So with her receiving 10 total profile books, we wanted to be realistic, especially after what we had just been told...<br />
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The previous week I asked the adoption agency director if we would be notified even if we were not chosen. Instead of just answering the question, she curtly replied that we shouldn't expect to be chosen or "match" with this one or for a while, because we already had children. She said it won't be as fast as it was adopting the last time. We had kids already and that changes everything.<br />
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Ummm. Ok.<br />
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That harsh reality felt like a punch in the gut to hopeful parents, but we knew it was true. Most expectant mothers or birth parents are looking for a home without children already there, and I can understand that. You see, in our first adoption, God<i> completely surprised</i> us by being chosen the very first time we showed our profile book! We realize how miraculous that seems when many people wait through several showing and several months to be matched. I know God has a plan that looks different for each couple, but it was really amazing that we showed our profile book only once! It wasn't a seamless adoption the first time around but we did match super fast.<br />
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So the Monday came and went and we heard nothing from the agency, but we were pleasantly distracted by starting our Babymoon that very day. I was Frodo leaving the shire, going on an adventure! We caught a long, beautiful flight across country just the two of us flying into what seemed like an eternal sunset that evening.<br />
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I felt so <i>alive</i> doing something adventurous with my husband after many years! We landed in San Francisco pretty much in the middle of the night for this mama and immediately knew we weren't in Kansas anymore, but we loved it all the more. After some run-around catching transportation to the car rental place and picking up a beautiful car, we ended our night at a hotel we booked close to the airport and fell asleep around 2:30am (central) and drifted off to dreamland.<br />
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Did I miss our kids....YES! Did I fight a bit of mom guilt for enjoying it so much... YES. The first 2 nights were hard for some reason. I think it's because we've never had so much distance between us and our children. But after I talked to Grammy and heard how much fun they were having, I decided to fully relax and enjoy 110%, so that's what we did! I really believe the Lord was giving us this time away as a gift for our marriage.<br />
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The next day we wanted to see San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge because we've never been there before, so we took a morning train into the city. There was a great little coffee and crepe place right across the street from the train station where we got off.<br />
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We enjoyed a lovely coffee and shared a delicious crepe on the patio where there was no humidity and where the skyscrapers surrounded out. It was wonderful! It was new! It was what I wanted to experience! We then took a bus directly through the city and at one point was by far the minority as we went through Little Italy and Chinatown. Many of the streets we passed looks filthy, many people who got on the bus were wearing masks because of the fires outside the city. So many people were by themselves on these buses and trains and there were a varying number of languages spoke. Our bus was shadowed by sky scrapers block after block after block.<br />
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Everything was different but it was all a wonder to behold! We were experiencing so much culture our first day in California!<br />
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San Francisco was different than most cities we've been to in the way that most of them have a small section of downtown sky scrapers. The downtown/sky scrapers here went on forever! It reminded me of my 8th grade trip to NYC so many years ago. The bus filled to what I would consider past the max capacity until most everybody unloaded again somewhere in Chinatown. We continued as it took us up and down the famous hills that the city is made of and we snapped several pictures before finally arriving to our destination, at Ghiradelli Square!<br />
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It felt like a slice of romance when we got off there and had the view of the bridge as we overlooked the water. I was in love with this man who flew us across the country to adventure together and reconnect! It's hard to sum it all up our time there, but the highlights were a fantastic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl for me and fish n chips for him, at a restaurant by the water. Followed by a nice walk and ending with a couple cones of Ghiradelli ice cream and a new silk scarf at a local boutique.<br />
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After walking a few blocks we took a trolley cable car (!) back to the train station. Getting around the city was not what I would call easy-breezy for us, but we took it all in stride and eventually got back to our car in San Bruno. The day could not have been better! It was rush hour (yikes) and we were headed down to Monterey where we were staying the rest of the trip. Oh my word, my butterflies of excitement continued as we drove our stylish car across the city and out to beautiful California countryside with our favorite music going, sun roof open and our fullest of hearts! The palm trees changed to evergreen trees and then to magnificent Monterey Cypress during our 2 hour drive. (The Monterey Cypress tree only lives in this very place and they are stunning!)<br />
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We stayed at a beautiful seaside Inn right overlooking Monterey Bay just down from Cannery Row.<br />
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Each morning we awoke to the sound of sea lions that congregated on the rocks and waves crashing on the shore. The sun came up over the mountains in the distance.<br />
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We enjoyed breakfast and coffee delivered to our room, so thoughtfully! Our little ritual was putting on the soft robes provided--because it was cool--and setting on our balcony to watch the sunrise over the mountains. We fell in love all over again with each other as we sipped coffee and listened to the sounds of the sea. <i>This was truly vacation! </i><br />
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We went to Carmel and took the (famous) 17 mile drive with the windows down! This had to be one of the highlights of my life! We stopped at several of the look out places and sat on the benches and took pictures as we were trying to take it all in. There was a beach that we parked at and I got out and I actually felt like this must be what Heaven is like.<br />
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The wild, untamed beauty of creation with my Love was almost too much...I was trying to keep my tears of joy at bay! The deep blue water making great white waves crashing on the dramatic rocks.... The salty breeze on our faces... Heath and I feel like we are a million miles away from real Kentucky life and we were more relaxed than we've been since our honeymoon, 13 years before.<br />
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We went into Carmel by the Sea and loved driving around the interesting, prestigous neighborhoods that were established a century ago. Not only was the architecture of each home amazing, so many of the houses had multi-million dollar views of the Pacific. The town has a European flair to it making the streets like something out of a movie!</div>
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We found our favorite--by far-- restaurant, called La Bicyclette. We had a real French-Italian experience there with the most delicious (and expensive) lunch we've had in our whole lives! From the gorgeous roasted vegetable salad to the wood fired napoleon pizza to the dark espresso and decadent chocolate dessert, it was pure perfection! <br />
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The walls were a cozy, chalk board-esque color and the dark original wood trim highlighted all the right things in the old building. It had soaring ceilings and grand windows and original wood floors. The atmosphere was straight out of something from a romantic movie with the breeze coming in the open doors and candles glowing on each table.<br />
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People were meeting up with hugs, families and friends gathered, and impeccably dressed people dined. It's a place where you don't rush for lunch but savor the moment of who you are with. It felt a bit out of our element yet it was right where we were supposed to be! We people watched and ate and admired and savored each bite like it was our last. We fell in love with food and culture all over again at that bistro, and I hope one day we will be back there. It's one of those places you wish you could fly across country just for the experience!<br />
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Each day in California we woke up slowly to the seaside sunrise. It was easy to get up when a new adventure just waiting to be discovered together and when this is the view.<br />
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We found a coffee shop that became our favorite place, called Bright Coffee. It had a quintessential California vibe and they made some of the best coffee in which they served out of handmade artisan mugs they also sold in the shop there. The shop is called Lilify. Heath surprised me with a leather banded bracelet I wanted, and we bought a couple Christmas gifts there, as well!<br />
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If you notice, we're definitely foodies when we go out of town, and this trip was becoming a food lover's paradise! We had delicious seafood and steak one night when we celebrated our anniversary by dressing up and getting dinner at the Chart House. I'm still drooling over the food and amazed at the creativity they plated it with. Heath told them it was our anniversary when he made the reservation, so they sat us at the perfect table to have a full view of the water. Before it got dark we were watching all the adorable sea otters playing together out there!<br />
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We had a picturesque drive through the countryside between the mountains where we saw where huge farms of lettuce and strawberries and other produce that are shipped to groceries around the states. So much of our produce is grown in California that the area is referred to the "salad" of America! There were vineyards after beautiful vineyards. It looked like we were in Italy! We drove through a redwood forest on the way back to San Francisco and that alone could be another post! It was another bucket list dream of mine to see the redwoods. Like I said, the beauty and the vastness of God's creation was overwhelming me in the best way in California!<br />
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This trip was more than I ever dreamed and a far cry from our every day life. but please remember friends, that Heath and I do not live in such a way that takes us jet setting and renting luxury cars on a regular basis! I don't share these pictures to flaunt what we did but to show you how awesome after waiting so long for such a trip we did get to take one of our dream getaways together! We truly don't take it for granted, not a single meal or day we were there. We live with our lives revolving around our kids and family and ministry but for this week it was about the two of us and it was wonderful to focus solely on the love of my life. We've been through the good, the bad, and the ugly and we will still always choose each other. I can't imagine this trip, this life with anybody else. My forever Love.<br />
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It was Saturday, our last full day in Monterey. We walked and saw and tasted and experienced the area, but as good as it all was, the Lord in all His goodness and faithfulness <i>saved the best for last</i>!<br />
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We awoke to another pretty morning and I hopped in the shower. (This bathroom, by the way, was much nicer than our master at home so taking showers felt all the more luxurious!) I could hear Heath on the phone in the other room, which was odd since he hasn't talked on the phone at all on this trip, but I suspected that maybe it was a unique situation with a patient or something like that. When I stepped out of the shower Heath came up to me <i>bright eyed</i>.<br />
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He said he had just gotten off the phone with our adoption specialist (social worker)!<br />
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Huh. Really?!! I thought. That's interesting...<br />
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She said that the expectant mother who was given our profile book the Monday before, the one who was given 10 profile books, the first expectant mama we even showed our profile book to.... she wanted to meet us and us alone! She was choosing us! We were about to be matched...on the first try, again!!!<br />
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We found out she was having a baby girl who was due Valentines Day!!!!<br />
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What in the world!?? ( I thought she had already chosen since we heard nothing all week. )<br />
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<i>Do dreams really come true???</i><br />
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We were both astonished and began crying in each other's arms! Then I jumped up and down praising God in the bathroom in Monterey California. I could feel the presence of God with us there as He answered our prayer!<br />
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You know how so many people have gone on trips and come back to later find out they became pregnant on that trip? A friend of mine opened my eyes to the fact that's essentially what happened with us--we were on our romantic getaway and we "concieved" an adopted baby there, if you will. Maybe only you who struggle with infertility out there can understand how truly sweet of the Lord it was to orchestrate our match this way! He knew how special it would be for us to get the call while on our dream vacation together, and He made entire experience of finding out more beautifully than we could've imagined.<br />
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That morning we were honestly brimming with joy unspeakable and hearts of gratitude! Our Redeemer lives! I wanted to shout it from the rooftops! We were carrying a delightful secret that I felt pregnant because we were expecting a baby. It wasn't a done deal and it never is in adoption, until the finalization is complete, but we trusted God and I can honestly say I didn't have fear this time weighing me down.<br />
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We went to our Bright Coffee for a latte, and as we were walking out Heath received a text. I asked him to take my picture in the front of the coffee shop with my coffee in hand (like we do when we go fun places), and as he was about to say "3" he said nonchalant, "we just got a full price offer on our house and another buyer is putting in an offer, too."<br />
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WHAT?!?! Is this what you would call the floodgates of God's favor opening!!???<br />
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"Click" goes the camera. He captured a blissful me standing there in shock and amazement.<br />
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Just 10 days after listing our house, on the same day we matched, as we are on our dream vacation together, we learned that we are about to sell our house and for more than we imagined. He allowed us to match the first time, again. So do you see what I mean when I say the Lord orchestrated it all and things were better than if we had tried planning it all ourselves!!? When we said "yes" to the call of adopting this time around we weren't sure how we would pay for it all, but we knew God would provide somehow. We put our faith into action when He gave us the wisdom to put our house on the market--which was a sacrifice for me--but only was to gain something much greater, a child. We sold our house at the same time we matched, and we had means to pay for this adoption without any fundraising at all!!! Only God.<br />
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If you're reading my story and wonder if God will open His floodgates in your life, know that is exactly what He wants to do! He says that He came to give us life and life more abundantly. That all His promises are "yes and amen" and that all things work together for good to those who love Christ and those who are called according to His purpose! He is our Redeemer. The one who died on the cross to save our soul and who also call us to step out in faith, believing before seeing.<br />
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Daughters and sons of God, you may be in a valley now or in the waiting room. You may feel like you're being tested or maybe your faith is new and small like a mustard seed. Maybe you are losing hope of whatever it is you are believing God for. It may be breakthrough in finances, in an addiction in your life or a loved one's life, the salvation of a loved one, your child may be facing a discouraging diagnosis. You may be in the trenches of parenting toddlers or teenagers, or like me you may be a woman struggling with infertility who has waited to see what her family was going to look like. After exhausting infertility treatments, I knew that in order for me to have children a miracle would have to take place. My faith was a mustard seed faith (but that's big enough for God to move mountains with!). In fact, I have been in many of those very places and I have an encouraging word for you.<br />
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Put your trust in God! Get back up another day but not in your own strength, in His! You can not will things to happen, that will only wear you out! Bring your burden to the Lord, rest in Him and trust Him to move in your situation. Cry out to God, talk to Him. Worship Him. The Lord is making a way for you, although it may not be exactly how you envisioned. It took me years to release the grip of my plan on what our family should look like and trust in God even though I didn't know what the outcome would be. I would've been completely overjoyed and thrilled with even one child, but He had plans for us to have more! He is sovereign and sees from the beginning to the end, but I promise it will be what is best. Keep trusting God!<br />
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We flew back home to Kentucky the next day, and we were soooo ready to see our children! We were brimming on the inside and our mind reeling with it all having just accepted an offer on our house just above the asking price and now growing our second daughter in my heart who was due Valentines. We came back home with our cup overflowing for each other and for the Lord.<br />
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It was indeed more than a romantic getaway for us. It the time when God showed us His glory!<br />
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<b>Stand on The Word of God!</b></div>
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These scriptures are a good place to begin and have gotten me through many hard days. Remember when you pray the Word of God, it will never come back void! The Lord loves you so much!!! </div>
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<i><b>Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of Your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him, and He will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noonday. (That means it's assured!) Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Psalm 37:3-7</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. </b></i></div>
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<i><b>Hebrews 4:16</b></i></div>
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<i><b>For the vision awaits it's appointed time, it hastens to the end--it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Habakkuk 2:3</b></i></div>
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<i><b>My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>2 Corinthians 12:9</b></i></div>
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<i><b>And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory, in Jesus Christ.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Phillipians 3:19</b></i></div>
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<i><b>For nothing will be impossible with God.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Luke 1:38</b></i></div>
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<i><b>And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Luke 1:45</b></i><br />
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Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-67744502481394829122018-06-18T22:19:00.001-05:002018-06-19T08:40:11.470-05:00Our Adoption Journey Part 1 -- A Labor of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know some of you might want to hear about how we got from point A with our adoption announcement last September to point B, bringing home our baby! Well, as I mentioned before it was a crazy-whirlwind of a time but everything happened pretty swiftly and seamlessly with the adoption process. Praise God for that. We knew for sure that we wanted to adopt a newborn baby in a domestic adoption and we knew the home study agency we were going to use. It was a good start but this was our second time doing it so we had a better grip on what was required than the first go 'round. We really didn't expect for everything to progress as quickly as it did, but it was really a God thing that it happened that way! So let's go back to early August and it'll probably be self-explanatory why I had to break from blogging, even when I had good intentions of taking you along with me.</div>
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<b>Home Study</b></div>
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We began by renewing our home study.</div>
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The home study is basically where you begin in any adoption. It is how you are officially approved to move forward in the adoption process. It's how you are approved to be financially, mentally, physically and emotionally "fit" to parent. That may seem overkill, but it does help to be sure there aren't any crazies looking for kids for the wrong reasons. It can be daunting if it's your first time getting your home study completed. There's an enormous check list of documents to collect, paper to fill out, references to get, fingerprinting, background check, and finally the home visit by a social worker from the home study agency. You are basically proving you and your household capable of loving and providing for a child! </div>
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I didn't say adoption was for the faint of heart, but when you're looking to make a way to give an orphan a home and expanding your family you will do whatever it takes! Honestly, it's worth the work and effort involved. My husband and I have always have made it a labor of love and that's what it is! If we can do it, so could you!</div>
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The home study process with our first adoption took about 3 1/2 months for us to complete. Heath didn't have nearly as much time to help since he was in his medical residency at time; and while I took the job of completing if very seriously, I needed his help with much of it. Also, the first time we floundered around between international and domestic adoption, which took a little extra time. We landed on domestic and completed the first home study just 3 weeks before getting the phone call and bringing home our oldest two! Once we did that we had to change our some study to a home investigation anyway, because we ended up having an independent adoption. (Making that change wasn't a big deal though.)</div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">We started this </span>adoption process the first week of August 2017 and had our home visit that very week (!!!) so I was VERY busy cleaning the house after the kids had been home for the summer and preparing it in all the ways. This happened to be the kiddos' first week of school, too! And the week my husband and I helped to launch our branch new church service while being the worship leaders for it! </div>
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<i>All the things! All at the same time!</i></div>
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It was a tiring week to say the least, but God helped give me the stamina and know-how for it all. We knew we were called to all of these responsibilities and it's that purpose that push us through.</div>
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In September, we applied to a referral agency called Faithful Adoption Consultants. We have heard so many good things about them, and know a few families who have used their services to help with their adoption! They are a good, quality referral agency. However, a referral agency is a go between and is not required and they are a few thousand dollars to use. At that point, quite frankly, we didn't know where all the money for this adoption was going to come from, exactly. Domestic newborn adoptions can be the most expensive kind of adoption for a number of valid reasons, but we felt a peace about adopting a newborn this time. We knew God said to move and get started and that's what we were doing. Adoption is such a faith walk!</div>
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We completed our home study by mid- September and it was said and done in just 6 fast weeks. It felt so good mailing off the big packet of forms and documents at the post office together! We were very excited about renewing our Home Study and thankful we blew through the process. Nobody but our closest family and friends knew we were adopting again at this point. We wanted the Home Study to be completed and me be officially "paper pregnant", carrying a baby in my heart.</div>
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We made our fun adoption announcement in September and that's when it felt so real--God really was about to grow our family! There was a time a few years ago I thought we were probably finished after having two children. We had our girl and boy, and it wasn't an easy transition into parenthood, but we were so fulfilled and so thankful to God be parents to our treasures. We were content in parenthood and that was a good feeling.</div>
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<i>But God!</i></div>
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Now here we were steady in our decision of pursuing another adoption. Pursuing a <i>child</i>! Becoming a mom of 3! The stirrings began back that spring and developed into a deep desire to bring another child home. I truly feel we were called to it.</div>
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We did get approved with Faithful Adoption Consultants, however, Heath had a quickening in his spirit to wait on moving forward with them. We wanted to see if there was a "situation" presented that we wanted to show our profile book to through the agency we used the first time we adopted. It's the same place who did both of our home studies. This way we wouldn't be out the extra few thousand dollars for a referring agency, and we could put that money toward the adoption fees. I immediately felt a peace about this decision. There are many times in our marriage when Heath and I go back and forth on an issue but this wasn't one of them. I trusted his wisdom on this. We decided to see if we could get matched with an expectant mom by the end of the year this way and if not, we would go through FAC to help us, after all.</div>
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<b>Surrendering to His Plan</b><br />
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Throughout this time and with all these decisions in our adoption, we had other big-time decisions to make, as well. One being to put our house on the market so we could move closer to our church and school, and downsize our mortgage in order to pay for the adoption.</div>
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You guys. This was not easy for me. </div>
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I LOVED our home! I loved the property, the location, the staircase and the windows in the kitchen. We made some precious memories in that house! I had never loved a house like I loved that one and when we bought it we saw ourselves living there many years! I was laying our (large to us) home on the altar, trusting God and trusting my husband. But it wasn't easy for me. There wasn't really a house for sale that we were interested in, but Heath felt strongly this was the right thing to do and he was right. We could possibly pay for this adoption by selling our beloved home!</div>
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I wrestled with the Lord on this, if I can be perfectly honest with you. At the end of the day the sacrifice was still felt, but I understood this was what the Lord wanted for us... it became completely clear in my heart that I wanted another child --a baby-- way more than I cared to stay in that house! If that house was standing in the way of adopting again then the house had to go. Family is more important! Jesus was so kind to open my eyes to the fact that I was actually laying down something I didn't need in order to gain something eternal, and that is a child! He was calling us to walk this road of selling and downsizing square footage to gain a priceless treasure. </div>
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In September on top of just starting a new church service, working on an adoption, (oh yeah, planning showers and the wedding of my sister in October whom I was the Matron of Honor!) we decided to get our house ready to be put on the market and try to sell as soon as possible! We had handy men, painters, floor guys, you name it at our house from breakfast to dinner for a few weeks. Our basement got a nice face lift and our whole staircase and banister was stripped down to the bare bones and redone to look gorgeous as a first impression in the entryway. I was cleaning in every room, painting base boards and one entire bathroom floor to ceiling and purging the rooms to look lighter and brighter! Cleaning closets, taking things to consignment and donating items galore. We put a fresh coating of mulch out and got the outside spruced up. All in a few weeks time. Again, a labor of love, but our home looked more beautiful than it ever had! </div>
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To say that I was juggling a lot during that season is an understatement!!! </div>
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I felt like my head was just above the water as I was trying to do all the things. It felt like I wasn't doing any one thing very well. I was forgetting homework. I was forgetting to call people back. I was corresponding to so many different people about important things about this adoption and the house reno and realtors and I felt fuzzy brained all the time. You know how you feel when you're so tired, and I was plain exhausted. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Our kids began to act out in school and that brought me to my knees with the Lord! I needed extra grace for it all!</span> September had many fruitful blessings and seeds sown, but it was very tiring and also a hard month, in a way. Looking back I see how things were working out for good and lining up but it the midst it felt like "just keep swimming".</div>
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This is when Mom in all her gracious hospitality invited me to come to her house one day to plan Faith's shower, but in all honesty she was giving me a needed respite. I was mentally and physically spent and she knew it. She spoiled me with delicious homemade mochas and the best seat in the house, a cozy rocking chair she has had for years.</div>
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She made a wonderful lunch and had our favorite instrumental music on. She served me hand and foot while telling me to just enjoy. I breathed deeper that day and the Lord used that time with Mom to give me the break and rest my body much needed! I still need my mom and I will in every season of life! This beautiful day renewed my spirit and I carried on!</div>
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<b>Profile Book</b></div>
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While all this was happening, we created our profile book! It's a portfolio/book that tells the story of my husband and I and of our family together and extended family. It shares about the community in which we live and explains why we are adopting. It lets these prospective expectant mothers/parents/grandparents get to know who we are and what we're about. It requires creativity placing pictures and writing from our hearts. We enjoy making a profile book, although many people chose to get help with this process. At the least, a good place to start is asking friends who have done this before to loan you their book before you get started or to help you. Some couples choose to hire help with it. T<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">his is an exciting process and it should be looked at again as a labor of love and something you can look forward to putting together alongside your spouse. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">While it can be a bit unnerving, we have always gone into the process believing that it will be placed in the right hands and the right person will choose us so that takes some of the pressure off from wanting it so perfect. </span>We</span> were really determined to get this book promptly finished so Heath got a fire under him one evening, and we completed creating a profile book in under 24 hours! It felt like a real "win"! <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">We like to pray over it before sending it out to the agency. </span> Now with the profile book finished, we were able to present to expectant mothers! </div>
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It's the middle of September, the paper prep is all over and the adoption journey gets real! Now, it's time to present! Get your heart steadied because the pursuing and the waiting begins!</div>
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This is when the Lord really showed off!....</div>
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Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-4847391080571026002018-06-15T18:02:00.004-05:002018-06-15T19:04:26.233-05:00It's All Grace--A Story About Answered Prayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On February 21st, 2018 at 3:00 in the afternoon, we had been in the packed L & D waiting room for about 12 hours and we were going on just two hours of sleep. T<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">here was a full moon that night and, as they say, that's when all the babies come! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I kept reliving the phone call at 1:00 am. The call which became the best reason in the world to get up in the middle of the night that we have ever had! …</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>our baby</i> was on her way to meet the world! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Heath and I were booking it to get to the hospital a few hours away through a big-time thunderstorm with torrential rain but it didn't slow us down! God made the wettest of roads safe that night, preparing a way for us as He had been doing throughout this entire adoption process. If an obstacle was about to arise, be it financial or interpersonal or come what may, every. single. time. we went to Him about it, and He calmed that storm! </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">This night was no different. </span><br />
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Now, there we were, sitting hopeful with the diaper bag full to the brim and a blanket under the bright fluorescent lights of the crowded waiting room. I was full from Starbucks coffee and the breakfast Heath picked up that morning and the delicious <a href="http://www.blazepizza.com/" target="_blank">Blaze pizza</a> we had for lunch. It was an <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">extraordinary </span>day! On <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">extraordinary </span>days, you either eat too much or not enough. Up until that moment I was eating to pass the time, but now as I received text after text with updates on our birth mom's progression, I was full from excitement and anxiety -- emotions were running high for me, which I expected. One of our lawyers was sitting across from us as we anxiously awaited. How do you act normal when your life is about to change? When your prayer is being answered? I thought my heart was going to pump out of my chest as I tried to look somewhat calm.<br />
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I look over at Heath who had been watching the Olympic games on the small tv wedged in the corner of the room, along with a couple dozen other people as they are waiting on daughters, mothers, wives and sisters to deliver. In a room full of people, we were the only parents waiting on <i>our child</i> to come. It's like you are carrying the most delightful secret you want to let everybody in on! </div>
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This time in the waiting room, I was <i>the new Mom</i>!</div>
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Even as we sat there, we were still trusting and believing God for a beautiful delivery and healthy baby. It's a faith walk till the finalization. Every step, trusting.</div>
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My phone buzzed...we received <i>the </i>text message!! It came with a picture as beautiful as I have ever known in my whole life! <br />
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<i>She's here!!!</i><br />
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I glanced at Heath through tears welling fast in my eyes.<br />
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<i>Heath, our daughter is here! Here she is!!!</i> I show the photo with shaky hands.<i> </i><br />
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<i>Thank you, Jesus!!!!! Thank you, Lord!!! </i><br />
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We stand, cry and embrace each other not as you see grandparents or aunts do in the waiting room, but our emotion came as parents whose daughter just arrived!!! <br />
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We experienced our daughter's arrival in the packed waiting room...which is so fitting since we have been in a waiting room for about 12 years with the Lord, as we've sought for a baby and surrendered ultimately to His will.<br />
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We couldn't believe the moment had finally arrived after not just a series of months, but we had waited through our entire marriage for this moment to be in the hospital at the arrival of our baby.<br />
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The next couple hours were no less a whirlwind of emotions as we waited to meet her. I was not sure exactly how the details would pan out but I knew we would be in the room and handed a life that another beautiful woman grew and nourished and labored and delivered. There's a feeling you can't quite explain, unless you experience it for the person who purposefully hands their baby over to you. There's a deep respect for this birth momma, this respect that feels and looks different from any I've had.<br />
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She made and bore the child I could not.<br />
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I parent and raise the child she could not.<br />
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This is when the crux of it all comes to be. This beautiful soul of a woman blesses me by literally handing over this child out of love, and I bless her by giving this child a future full of hope and love. <br />
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<i>It's all grace</i>. It's all by the grace of God! Grace that an infertile woman is able to be a mom and lovingly raise children at all! That our family can grow and that babies are born not <i>from</i> me but <i>for</i> me. By the grace of God alone.... and I'm profoundly aware of that and thankful beyond belief!<br />
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It's grace for this birth mom, and I pray sincerely she realizes it even more each day! Grace that her child can be raised in the stability and love of a home that will never dissolve. That she'll have siblings and cousins and grandparents who will cherish her and share the love of Jesus with her throughout her entire life. <br />
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It's grace that God gives second chances!<br />
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<i>Rosemary Grace</i> was born February 21st. It's the day our hearts were burst open bigger than I ever could even imagine! <u>All</u> <u>my</u> <u>children</u> have grown my heart-- don't get me wrong!!-- but I have never been handed an innocent baby from someone who <i>chose</i> us. That innocent life, not planned on earth but <b>on</b> <b>purpose</b> by God, handed to me was a sacred moment.<br />
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That day, I honestly fell in love with my husband all over again! After years of getting on our knees together, receiving <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">answered prayer together, </span>hurting & losing together, watching the as we walked through The Refiner's fire together, we came back out with hands in surrender to God and now with our feet dancing with joy. Yes, I have never been more in love with my man since our honeymoon like I was when this babe of our was born! <br />
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Those few days in the hospital we experienced a myriad of emotion and that's what adoption will do! It's not straight forward! You have to go into it flexible and trusting in God because there are so many things out of your hands until it's finalized. But adoption is a story of redemption and of second chances! It's a story that mirrors the gospel of Christ and how he has adopted me into His family.<br />
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Our Rosemary Grace is 16 weeks now, and it's been possibly the best 16 weeks of my adult life! I'm still sleep deprived and living on coffee every day, but the thankfulness and joy that resides in my heart as a mom to my 3 is the song of my life right now. It's the one He has written and had all along, I just finally turned that page.<br />
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It's all grace and it's all because He is a good Father!<br />
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Very first time rocking her. I'm in love!!!!!</div>
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Cheeks for days! Born 8 lbs. 15 oz. 21 1/2 in. long</div>
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First time Heath held her. Priceless!!!</div>
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First picture/selfie of the three of us! So tired and sooo happy!</div>
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Going home! Praise God from whom all blessing flow!!!</div>
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Our first family photo together! She's 4 days old here, and it's our big girl's 7th birthday.</div>
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(I wanted to add here that for some reason my text turned out very wonky in this post. I am so sorry about that and will change it if I can, but I'm doing my best not to delay writing and publishing anymore -- so that's why it is what it is! Thanks for understanding and I hope it doesn't detract from the story too much.)<br />
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Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-75637351353033029462018-06-13T18:48:00.001-05:002018-06-13T18:48:36.883-05:00The Story the Lord is Unfolding...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<i>What a ride</i> I've been on since I last wrote here in September when we made our adoption announcement! </div>
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We have been crazy- busy with life changes and adjustments from this time last year. In all honesty, I'm just now catching my breath from all the blessings the Lord has given us, all the answers to prayer and all. the. kids. to feed. </div>
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I've almost gotten back on this blogging horse a dozen times in the past few months but something always seems to get in the way. One of my reasons has been that I haven't been able to download photos onto the computer so I don't have any recent pictures to share. (For now anyways.) I'm determined to fix this problem because I'm such a visual person! It's a poor excuse not to meet up with you on here after so long, but today I didn't care! </div>
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I just decided to begin typing. :)</div>
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Also I've been thinking, in the day and age of Instagram and "Inst-sharing" everything we do and wear and eat and read and places we go and see I've almost "written off" blogging as a whole. That sounds so sad, but I'm being honest about my thought process. Why blog when you can just pop up in an Instastory and immediately share your mind as you experience something or as the thought is taking shape. As interesting as those are to watch I don't know if I will ever feel comfortable at primarily sharing my life with you via video. Call me old fashioned ( I know I am) but I want to be mindful of what it is I say and share and I tend to ramble famously when I'm in front of a camera. I love Instagram most days, but there's a depth that I appreciate when I read a curated blog that I know somebody's hands thoughtfully developed. </div>
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Mind you, I want to be completely authentic and genuine in what I share! I love beautiful photos and I love everyday ones. There's no need to have another picture-perfect looking life put out there when there's so much more victory in a life that is real and messy but that God is working in for His glory!</div>
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I've decided to do my best with this blogging thing I love so much, even with 3 little mouths to feed now... yes, I said <i>three</i>!!!... more to come on that!....</div>
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I'm here because there's been too many praises to God not to be here and tell you about them!</div>
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I'm here because I've missed YOU. The friends I've made over the years through The Cozy Little Kitchen! </div>
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I'm here to continue with my story the Lord is unfolding.</div>
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My story of adoption and redemption and parenting and marriage and delicious baking and homemaking and worship music and the grace of Jesus Christ! </div>
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This journey of my ordinary and sometimes challenging yet <i>gloriously good, good</i> life continues here at The Cozy Little Kitchen!</div>
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I hope you will come back with a delicious drink to sip on, and join me here as I begin to share more about my year of God opening the floodgates of faithfulness and the continued tale of my home and family!!!</div>
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<br />Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159792653206251876.post-51982137022161180752017-09-08T12:23:00.002-05:002017-09-08T13:08:49.658-05:00Our Family is GROWING!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yZ4E1ljSpmSdba-yUM_kvvpd4XwkCo8tpTiTOgPuVsjTZj1lhrOuN8jD_NlkuHubQA4xLFlcnNTM9VrcaJg8cAqbBWPoMfBkJ9A4QPnIHs5wXEKU8zKIEn27WMsbpwFQpPOnCzvxFPA/s1600/090517_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yZ4E1ljSpmSdba-yUM_kvvpd4XwkCo8tpTiTOgPuVsjTZj1lhrOuN8jD_NlkuHubQA4xLFlcnNTM9VrcaJg8cAqbBWPoMfBkJ9A4QPnIHs5wXEKU8zKIEn27WMsbpwFQpPOnCzvxFPA/s640/090517_6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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SO when I said there was a lot of <i>new beginnings</i> in August, this is what was cooking in The Cozy Little Kitchen .....</div>
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Our family is growing, by adoption!!!! <br />
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(We're pretty thrilled.... just look at baby girl's face.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYysTN5CQKFCup-z8iNJNDfH1_LaHA7VZMAgLLH-RbayTaskXTkLCM2yE-yDWtMpbBFDWogs5EE3pbIgWkw1ug-um50l-PDFPYfpRTM0242XbmrIbuWV368aC-29_5K-D4wxnhsRTylqE/s1600/090517_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYysTN5CQKFCup-z8iNJNDfH1_LaHA7VZMAgLLH-RbayTaskXTkLCM2yE-yDWtMpbBFDWogs5EE3pbIgWkw1ug-um50l-PDFPYfpRTM0242XbmrIbuWV368aC-29_5K-D4wxnhsRTylqE/s640/090517_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am <i>PAPER PREGNANT</i>! </div>
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And yes, there will be dark chocolate dipped potato chip cravings and ugly cries of joy have already started flowing! I will labor and their may be pain, but it will look different than a natural birth story. </div>
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Up to this point though, I've not felt lighter in <i>years</i>! It may be partially to adrenaline, but I also know that's what the peace of God that passes all understanding feels like. We are trusting God to provide the funding we need, the wisdom we need, the patience we need, the rest we need, and our children the security they need as we move forward. We're putting one foot in front of the other with our eyes set on Him as he say's, "GO". </div>
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Adoption is a leap of faith in many ways, but I believe wholeheartedly that's part of the miracle! </div>
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God has set deep inside our heart that He has called us to build our family though adoption. It is His plan A for our family's life! Heath and I couldn't be more giddy-excited, overwhelmed, and a little scared as we begin this process again. We know just enough to be both thrilled and anxious so please, we ask you pray for us as we have a number of decisions to make and as we trust the Lord to work on our behalf on all the decisions that are out of out of our control. Your prayers are so appreciated!</div>
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There will be more to come as I'll try to keep you updated, so I hope you'll join us as we begin the journey to our 3rd child through a domestic newborn adoption! </div>
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<b>"He gives the <i>barren</i> woman a home, making her the joyous mother of children. Praise the LORD!"</b></div>
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<b>Psalm 113: 9</b></div>
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<b>In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved."</b></div>
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<b>Ephesians 1:5-6</b></div>
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<b>"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths."</b></div>
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<b>Proverbs. 3:5-6</b></div>
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<b>"Whoever receives one such child in my name, receives me."</b></div>
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<b>Matthew 18:5</b></div>
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<b>"Jesus said, 'Have you believed because you have not seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.' "</b></div>
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<b>John 20:29</b></div>
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<br />Lesliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04977366023909553381noreply@blogger.com20