I had mentioned earlier about a declutter calendar I have been following. I just can't hardly believe how much I've gotten done just by following it daily.
In case you are interested in starting along, you can click here for April's calendar. Honestly, doing one chore each day will soon have your home almost decluttering itself!
On another note, I must once again hang my head in shame as I admit to homemaker failure. Papa Bear was gone for two weeks and in his absence, my kitchen was spotless! Dishes done after every meal...AND put away. Table kept cleaned off. Floors mopped every day.
And then Papa came home...and the day he came home my counter and table looked like they belonged in a hoarder house! What's up with that? I so wish I was one of those women who keep a spotless home at all times. I would love to not cringe when someone stops by for a visit un-announced. I'd also love to be rich and never have to work again, but I don't see that happening either.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Beginning of Holy Week
Today, Palm Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week, a most important time for Christians.
This week, I will be linking back to my Holy Week posts from last year. If you were a reader last year, it's always good to have a reminder. If you are a newer reader, I hope you will enjoy.
Friday, March 30, 2012
DIY for Spring Gardeners
I was cruising around the internet this morning and found this great idea for watering plants at A journey to a Dream blog.
Not only is it pretty cool, it also practises something I'm a big fan of~~recycling!
Hop on over and take a look.
Not only is it pretty cool, it also practises something I'm a big fan of~~recycling!
Hop on over and take a look.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
MmMmMm...yummy banana bread
My kitchen is smelling all kinds of scrumptious this morning. As I sit here and type, there are exactly 34 minutes left on the timer until the yummy banana bread can be taken out of the convection oven. After that, I will force myself to wait the required 5 minutes for the bread to start cooling.
Watch out though, once that time is done, the bread will be sliced and butter slathered on it. I will then sit down with said buttery bread and a nice hot cup of my fake coffee and enjoy a little bit of me time.
*Sigh*
How can 34 minutes move so slow??
Betty Crocker's Banana Bread
1 C. sugar
1/3 C. margarine or butter, softened
2 eggs
1 1/2 C. mashed bananas
1/3 C. water
1 2/3 C flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking powder
I do not add nuts but I do add 1 tsp. cinnamon
Heat oven to 350*. Grease bottom only of loaf pan.
Mix sugar and margarine in 2 1/2 quart bowl.
Stir in eggs until blended.
Add bananas and water (beat 30 seconds)
Stir in remaining ingredients just until moistened.
Pour into pan.
Bake 55-60 minutes until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool 5 minutes (this is SO hard for me!)
Remove from pan and cool completely before slicing (as you read above, I skip this part).
Watch out though, once that time is done, the bread will be sliced and butter slathered on it. I will then sit down with said buttery bread and a nice hot cup of my fake coffee and enjoy a little bit of me time.
*Sigh*
How can 34 minutes move so slow??
Betty Crocker's Banana Bread
1 C. sugar
1/3 C. margarine or butter, softened
2 eggs
1 1/2 C. mashed bananas
1/3 C. water
1 2/3 C flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking powder
I do not add nuts but I do add 1 tsp. cinnamon
Heat oven to 350*. Grease bottom only of loaf pan.
Mix sugar and margarine in 2 1/2 quart bowl.
Stir in eggs until blended.
Add bananas and water (beat 30 seconds)
Stir in remaining ingredients just until moistened.
Pour into pan.
Bake 55-60 minutes until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool 5 minutes (this is SO hard for me!)
Remove from pan and cool completely before slicing (as you read above, I skip this part).
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Fridge Addiction
I think I may have an addiction to cleaning out my fridge. I have it scheduled for Monday morning, and it seems I'm just itching to get in there and do it. Even throughout the week I *have* to keep it organized. Each shelf is designated to certain items. Heaven help the poor soul who puts a condiment on the left over shelf!
What I'm wondering is how I can get this clean/organized fridge addiction to spill over into the rest of my house?
Monday, March 26, 2012
Great Blog Find
As I was doing my morning cruise through Prairie Homemaker, I came across a link to a blog which sounded a bit interesting to me. Much much time later, I finally pulled myself away from it. The Legacy of Home is dedicated primarily to homemaking and the joy of it.
It's so easy to find ourself going through the motions of keeping house only because it needs to be done. I have been guilty more than once of this. This blog is a wonderful reminder to me that I actually do enjoy taking care of my home.
Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and go over to The Legacy of Home for a visit.
It's so easy to find ourself going through the motions of keeping house only because it needs to be done. I have been guilty more than once of this. This blog is a wonderful reminder to me that I actually do enjoy taking care of my home.
Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and go over to The Legacy of Home for a visit.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
A long, cool drink
Jesus cried out, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, 'Out of the believer's heart shall flow rivers of living water.'"
John 7:37-38
Each year the local FFA grows plants and flowers to be sold in the spring. I look forward to the plant sale as soon as it starts getting a bit warmer out. Each year I go way over-board, coming home with my trunk stuffed full of my purchases. Before long, planters are placed around the patio and yard filled with their beautiful flowers. I take the time to water and care for them daily. It brings me joy to simply walk around the yard and look.
Then I get distracted.
Before long, my beautiful flowers are dry and droopy. I run for the hose to provide them with a much needed long drink, hoping they will be able to revive.
We need the water of God's Word as much as my flowers need the water of my hose. When I get distracted by life and neglect my time in prayer and with my Bible, I get dry and droopy. The great thing is, by believing in Christ, I can tap into an endless supply of life giving water. When I stay in the Word, I feel stronger, able to survive the day.
My question to you: Have you turned to Christ lately for a cool drink of the water of life?
John 7:37-38
Each year the local FFA grows plants and flowers to be sold in the spring. I look forward to the plant sale as soon as it starts getting a bit warmer out. Each year I go way over-board, coming home with my trunk stuffed full of my purchases. Before long, planters are placed around the patio and yard filled with their beautiful flowers. I take the time to water and care for them daily. It brings me joy to simply walk around the yard and look.
Then I get distracted.
Before long, my beautiful flowers are dry and droopy. I run for the hose to provide them with a much needed long drink, hoping they will be able to revive.
We need the water of God's Word as much as my flowers need the water of my hose. When I get distracted by life and neglect my time in prayer and with my Bible, I get dry and droopy. The great thing is, by believing in Christ, I can tap into an endless supply of life giving water. When I stay in the Word, I feel stronger, able to survive the day.
My question to you: Have you turned to Christ lately for a cool drink of the water of life?
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Wanna Comment?
It has come to my attention there are some of you dear readers who would like to leave comments on Bear Necessities, you just don't know how. Well, we can fix that right now, it really is an easy thing to do. In fact, I explain how to do it in any earlier post right here.
As a blogger, it is always nice to hear some feedback...it lets me know I'm not here just talking to myself! LOL
Beer Bread
When Little Bear was just a cub, he loved my beer bread. Of course, we called it 'dense bread' as I didn't want him running around saying he got to have beer. In the summer, we would make a tray up with sliced cheese, deer salami, fresh fruit and veggies and slices of dense bread w/butter. This was a regular summer supper for us.
The bread itself is very simple to make. It takes a couple of minutes to make and an hour to cook...presto!
Beer bread
3 C. self rising flour**
3 T. sugar
1 12oz. can of beer @ room temperature
Mix all ingredients. Put into greased loaf pan. With wet fingers, smooth out top.
Pre-heat oven (very important) to 325*. Bake 45-60 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly then remove from pan.
**Self rising flour**
1 C. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
Whisk together well. Be sure to adjust for 3 cups needed in recipe
Sprite or 7UP can be used instead of the beer, it just isn't quite as good in my opinion.
This bread is best eaten the same day. It's also a perfect bread for adding flavorings too. I like to do a heavy sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the top and make toast. Italian spices can be mixed in for eating with spaghetti or lasagna. Horseradish and ground black pepper is tasty for eating with cheese. Use your imagination!
Since this is a very dense bread, it is great to also eat with soups and stews in the cold weather time.
The bread itself is very simple to make. It takes a couple of minutes to make and an hour to cook...presto!
Beer bread
3 C. self rising flour**
3 T. sugar
1 12oz. can of beer @ room temperature
Mix all ingredients. Put into greased loaf pan. With wet fingers, smooth out top.
Pre-heat oven (very important) to 325*. Bake 45-60 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly then remove from pan.
**Self rising flour**
1 C. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
Whisk together well. Be sure to adjust for 3 cups needed in recipe
Sprite or 7UP can be used instead of the beer, it just isn't quite as good in my opinion.
This bread is best eaten the same day. It's also a perfect bread for adding flavorings too. I like to do a heavy sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the top and make toast. Italian spices can be mixed in for eating with spaghetti or lasagna. Horseradish and ground black pepper is tasty for eating with cheese. Use your imagination!
Since this is a very dense bread, it is great to also eat with soups and stews in the cold weather time.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Don't be a party jumper
.
For my Illinois readers, tomorrow is a very important day for us. Tomorrow are the Illinois Primaries. Some don't get out and vote at this time thinking it's not a 'real' election. Boy oh boy are they ever wrong! It's a chance to choose the best candidate for your party.
There is one part of the primary process that gets on my nerves and that is party jumpers. Those people who jump party lines to vote for who they feel to be the weaker candidate to go up against their own candidate. To me, this says they don't have faith in their own party. I think party jumping is just a shame.
Please take the time tomorrow to get out and exercise your right to vote. Every vote counts.
For my Illinois readers, tomorrow is a very important day for us. Tomorrow are the Illinois Primaries. Some don't get out and vote at this time thinking it's not a 'real' election. Boy oh boy are they ever wrong! It's a chance to choose the best candidate for your party.
There is one part of the primary process that gets on my nerves and that is party jumpers. Those people who jump party lines to vote for who they feel to be the weaker candidate to go up against their own candidate. To me, this says they don't have faith in their own party. I think party jumping is just a shame.
Please take the time tomorrow to get out and exercise your right to vote. Every vote counts.
Friday, March 16, 2012
The corner station
When I was a little girl, my little town had a corner full service filling station. Full service meant not only filling up the gas tank, but also cleaning the windows, checking under the hood, putting air in the tires and asking about your day~and waiting for the answer. They also did repairs in the garage.
As kids, it was a great treat to take 3 dimes in and get a bottle of soda. It was also fun to jump on the hose run across the drive to make the bell ding.
When I was in 8th grade I had a huge crush on the high school boy working there. I would get lots of sodas each day just to see him. *sigh*
I understand progress is needed in order for small towns to thrive and grow. That old corner filling station has been gone for many many years. In fact, only the garage part of it is still standing and it is now used for private storage. I just wish progress didn't have to mean getting rid of the very things that make a small town quaint and homey.
In my own little world, my town would still have the filling station, and the barber shop for all the men to sit and tell their stories. There would be a grocery store with a butcher to cut your meat and bag boys to not only bag up your items, but to also carry them out and put them in your car.
The bank would be locally owned. Main Street would be a bustle of activity on Saturday mornings. Kids would be out riding their bikes and playing ball on the diamond and using their imaginations to keep busy all day.
Parents would sit on the front porch to watch the children play in the evening. Neighbors would visit with neighbors.
You all might as well go on with the rest of your day, I think I'm gonna stay here in my own little world in my own little town with a bottle of soda from the filling station where that cute high school boy works.
As kids, it was a great treat to take 3 dimes in and get a bottle of soda. It was also fun to jump on the hose run across the drive to make the bell ding.
When I was in 8th grade I had a huge crush on the high school boy working there. I would get lots of sodas each day just to see him. *sigh*
I understand progress is needed in order for small towns to thrive and grow. That old corner filling station has been gone for many many years. In fact, only the garage part of it is still standing and it is now used for private storage. I just wish progress didn't have to mean getting rid of the very things that make a small town quaint and homey.
In my own little world, my town would still have the filling station, and the barber shop for all the men to sit and tell their stories. There would be a grocery store with a butcher to cut your meat and bag boys to not only bag up your items, but to also carry them out and put them in your car.
The bank would be locally owned. Main Street would be a bustle of activity on Saturday mornings. Kids would be out riding their bikes and playing ball on the diamond and using their imaginations to keep busy all day.
Parents would sit on the front porch to watch the children play in the evening. Neighbors would visit with neighbors.
You all might as well go on with the rest of your day, I think I'm gonna stay here in my own little world in my own little town with a bottle of soda from the filling station where that cute high school boy works.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Bike Time
.
START SEEING MOTORCYCLES
With the mild winter we have had here in Illinois and the above average temperatures we are experiencing, motorcycles are are out and about already. Please look and double-look when crossing intersections.
That said, I had my first ride of the season last night. Papa Bear was a sweetheart and did all the maintenance on my bike this year to get it running before July! Unfortunately, his wasn't quite ready to go so I took my first ride of the season by myself *sigh*
Looking forward to an evening here soon where neither one of us have anything going on so we can get out and ride.
START SEEING MOTORCYCLES
With the mild winter we have had here in Illinois and the above average temperatures we are experiencing, motorcycles are are out and about already. Please look and double-look when crossing intersections.
That said, I had my first ride of the season last night. Papa Bear was a sweetheart and did all the maintenance on my bike this year to get it running before July! Unfortunately, his wasn't quite ready to go so I took my first ride of the season by myself *sigh*
Looking forward to an evening here soon where neither one of us have anything going on so we can get out and ride.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Couch to 5K
Today I am starting on a nine week journey. Don't know how much fun this journey is going to be in the beginning, I'm sure though I will be loving it by the end. You see, today I start the Couch to 5K program. The idea is to take me from a couch potato to running a 5K in just eight weeks.
Even though the program is for eight weeks, I'm starting it by first doing a week of conditioning my body. Drinking lots of water, eating pretty healthy, and doing some basic exercising so my body doesn't go into shock.
I'll be keeping a journal during this journey. Tracking my eating, my sleeping, my water and my program progress.
I tried to do this about a year ago and failed miserably at it. I don't think my heart was in the right place. I think I might be ready now...uummmm...I HOPE I am ready this time.
If all goes well, I will be able to run in my little towns 5K race during the summer festival~that is my goal.
Well dear reader, that's what I have going on, feel free to keep me accountable!
Even though the program is for eight weeks, I'm starting it by first doing a week of conditioning my body. Drinking lots of water, eating pretty healthy, and doing some basic exercising so my body doesn't go into shock.
I'll be keeping a journal during this journey. Tracking my eating, my sleeping, my water and my program progress.
I tried to do this about a year ago and failed miserably at it. I don't think my heart was in the right place. I think I might be ready now...uummmm...I HOPE I am ready this time.
If all goes well, I will be able to run in my little towns 5K race during the summer festival~that is my goal.
Well dear reader, that's what I have going on, feel free to keep me accountable!
Friday, March 9, 2012
Fake Coffee
.
I stand before you this morning to say, "My name is Mama Bear and I am a fake almost every day". Judge me if you will, but it's not going to change.
You'll remember a few weeks ago I shared with you about EFT, Emotional Freedom Technique, my friend Lori turned me on to. This technique has made a huge difference in my life. Lori also helped me in another area I was having much struggle with, coffee.
I like coffee, I really really like coffee. Not to the point of being a coffee snob or anything like that, I just really really enjoy drinking coffee throughout my day. Due to health issues, I am no longer able to do that.
*sigh*
Lori came to my rescue once again and turned me onto a product I can drink in place of my decaf pots of coffee each day.
Cafix is an all natural drink that is naturally caffeine free. I can drink as much of it as I want and it doesn't cause me any pain. I like that it is instant so I can enjoy a cup anytime I want.
The flavor is just a bit different than coffee, however, it definitely takes care of my coffee fix.
I do want to caution you, even though I can drink Cafix all day without it causing me health problems, I don't. Well, let me clarify that I won't do it again. You see, it is all natural...ALL NATURAL...it gets you moving (if you know what I mean). Nope, won't make that mistake again.
If you are interested in trying this wonderful hot drink of happiness and you are local, visit Lori at Optimal Health in Princeton, IL. If you are not local, I'm sure you can do a Google search and find it in a health store near you.
I'm going to take a small break and enjoy a cup of my fake coffee, I do hope you all have a day filled with friendships, happiness and blessings.
I stand before you this morning to say, "My name is Mama Bear and I am a fake almost every day". Judge me if you will, but it's not going to change.
You'll remember a few weeks ago I shared with you about EFT, Emotional Freedom Technique, my friend Lori turned me on to. This technique has made a huge difference in my life. Lori also helped me in another area I was having much struggle with, coffee.
I like coffee, I really really like coffee. Not to the point of being a coffee snob or anything like that, I just really really enjoy drinking coffee throughout my day. Due to health issues, I am no longer able to do that.
*sigh*
Lori came to my rescue once again and turned me onto a product I can drink in place of my decaf pots of coffee each day.
Cafix is an all natural drink that is naturally caffeine free. I can drink as much of it as I want and it doesn't cause me any pain. I like that it is instant so I can enjoy a cup anytime I want.
The flavor is just a bit different than coffee, however, it definitely takes care of my coffee fix.
I do want to caution you, even though I can drink Cafix all day without it causing me health problems, I don't. Well, let me clarify that I won't do it again. You see, it is all natural...ALL NATURAL...it gets you moving (if you know what I mean). Nope, won't make that mistake again.
If you are interested in trying this wonderful hot drink of happiness and you are local, visit Lori at Optimal Health in Princeton, IL. If you are not local, I'm sure you can do a Google search and find it in a health store near you.
I'm going to take a small break and enjoy a cup of my fake coffee, I do hope you all have a day filled with friendships, happiness and blessings.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Start of Spring Cleaning!
It's time! It's time!
With Spring right around the corner, I find myself in the Spring Cleaning mood. I have been doing a bit here and a bit there and this morning I am pleased to announce my kitchen has been purged, decluttered, organized and spring cleaned!
So, two rooms down (bathroom was the first I did), five areas left. I think the next will be the laundryroom. Once it is done, Papa Bear is going to build two more sets of cabinets for me. After that, the whole room is getting a fresh coat of paint and some new curtains.
I love this time of the year when it is barely warm enough to crack a window just a bit to let in some fresh air, yet not warm enough to really get out and do anything. Once it's warm enough to be out, I find I have to literally force myself to get anything done inside.
With Spring right around the corner, I find myself in the Spring Cleaning mood. I have been doing a bit here and a bit there and this morning I am pleased to announce my kitchen has been purged, decluttered, organized and spring cleaned!
So, two rooms down (bathroom was the first I did), five areas left. I think the next will be the laundryroom. Once it is done, Papa Bear is going to build two more sets of cabinets for me. After that, the whole room is getting a fresh coat of paint and some new curtains.
I love this time of the year when it is barely warm enough to crack a window just a bit to let in some fresh air, yet not warm enough to really get out and do anything. Once it's warm enough to be out, I find I have to literally force myself to get anything done inside.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
NASCAR!
My friends Joe and Alicia have created a monster! Yep, it's all their fault. I am completely blaming them for my being tired today due to staying up to watch the Daytona 500 last night.
Up until a couple of weeks ago, I couldn't give two hoots for NASCAR. I found it to be a waste of time. I would liken it to watching paint dry. I even took my Boy Scouts to a race at Chicago Speedway and found myself so very bored. I said I would never again do that...EVER!
My, my, my how things have changed. I am addicted to it now! It all started a couple of weeks ago when Papa Bear was gone and I was lonely. I took my crochet and went to my friends house to hang out with them and play with the kids. This is a huge NASCAR family. While there, they turned on the Budweiser Shoot-out, did a bit of explaining to me, and I was hooked. Who knew picking someone to follow would make such a difference?
This weekend, I made my plans around the races. Last night, I changed plans so I wouldn't miss the race which had been rained out on Sunday. My friends got me in on Fantasy Racing. *SIGH* I'm hooked. I sure hope the Chicago Speedway offers special discounted tickets for the Boy Scouts in the fall again!
Lesson here...never say never!
Monday, February 27, 2012
A bad kind of dry
In some instances, dry is a good thing:
* A dry spot in a rain storm
* Dry grass to sit on
* Dry sheets when it's time to go to bed (as opposed to still being wet in the washer because I forgot about them)
One thing definitely not good dry is a bloggers brain. Unfortunately, that is exactly what has been going on here. My brain has been dry dry dry. Think desert dry. Think left extra long in the dryer dry. Think so dry I could not squeeze out a single drop of creative juices dry. Yep, it's been a very dry couple of weeks.
I'm happy to report the dryness is lifting. I'm feeling a bit of wetness in my brain again (hoping it doesn't mean my brain has a leak!) I'm looking forward to once again posting, and I want to thank all of you for hanging in there with me during this dry spell.
* A dry spot in a rain storm
* Dry grass to sit on
* Dry sheets when it's time to go to bed (as opposed to still being wet in the washer because I forgot about them)
One thing definitely not good dry is a bloggers brain. Unfortunately, that is exactly what has been going on here. My brain has been dry dry dry. Think desert dry. Think left extra long in the dryer dry. Think so dry I could not squeeze out a single drop of creative juices dry. Yep, it's been a very dry couple of weeks.
I'm happy to report the dryness is lifting. I'm feeling a bit of wetness in my brain again (hoping it doesn't mean my brain has a leak!) I'm looking forward to once again posting, and I want to thank all of you for hanging in there with me during this dry spell.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Do you Ash Wednesday?
.
Today, Ash Wednesday, is the first day of Lent.
For many Christians, now is the time of fasting and repentance. The time to let go of bad actions and concentrate on becoming better. The time to 'give up' something that is difficult to go without (think chocolate, coffee, internet...). During times of cravings of the given up something, remember the sacrifices Jesus made for us. In comparison to that, [insert your given up something] doesn't seem like such a difficult thing to go without for 40 days (plus Sundays).
Lent is also a great opportunity to spend more time in God's Word. Spend time in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John...first four books of the New Testament) and learn how Jesus lived His life. How did he deal with conflict, with demands on his time, with haters? Is it possible to learn to live a better life by reading about His? I do believe so.
You don't need to be affiliated with a church/denomination to practice Lent. It's a personal journey.
Today, Ash Wednesday, is the first day of Lent.
For many Christians, now is the time of fasting and repentance. The time to let go of bad actions and concentrate on becoming better. The time to 'give up' something that is difficult to go without (think chocolate, coffee, internet...). During times of cravings of the given up something, remember the sacrifices Jesus made for us. In comparison to that, [insert your given up something] doesn't seem like such a difficult thing to go without for 40 days (plus Sundays).
Lent is also a great opportunity to spend more time in God's Word. Spend time in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John...first four books of the New Testament) and learn how Jesus lived His life. How did he deal with conflict, with demands on his time, with haters? Is it possible to learn to live a better life by reading about His? I do believe so.
You don't need to be affiliated with a church/denomination to practice Lent. It's a personal journey.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Fat Tuesday: how will you observe the day?
Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, is being celebrated around the world today as Lent draws near. This holiday, however, has two very different observances leading up to Ash Wednesday. While many enjoy Mardi Gras, French for Fat Tuesday, as a time of indulgence and possible gluttony, others spend the day in prayer, preparing their hearts and minds for the upcoming period of Lent. But where did this holiday get its start, and why are there such different means of observing the day?
Mardi Gras marks the period of time between Epiphany, the revelation of Jesus as God's son, and Ash Wednesday. Many use the final three days as a time of pure indulgence and celebration before Lent. Celebrations throughout the world include parades, sporting competitions and dancing. One of the most well-known parades, at least in the United States, takes place in New Orleans.
According to the American Catholic website, "Mardi Gras, literally 'Fat Tuesday,' has grown in popularity in recent years as a raucous, sometimes hedonistic event. But its roots lie in the Christian calendar, as the 'last hurrah' before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday."
Some, however, take a more solemn approach to Tuesday and spend the day in prayer. Fat Tuesday is also known as Shrove Tuesday, which means, "to confess." People in primarily English-speaking countries often pray and confess their sins as a way to prepare for Lent.
Pancakes are traditionally eaten on Tuesday, as they are made of simple ingredients most already have in their homes. In fact, pancakes have become so popular for the day that there are pancake races held in Buckinghamshire. Kansas and Buckinghamshire have held International Pancake Day races as part of a tradition dating back to 1950.
Tomorrow's observance of Ash Wednesday will lead Christians and believers into the period of Lent, which is a time of fasting and giving up as a reminder of the time Christ spent in the desert. But the question remains: How will you observe today? Will you spend it celebrating and indulging? Will you spend the day in prayer and confession? Or will you work to combine the two?
[copied from World]
Mardi Gras marks the period of time between Epiphany, the revelation of Jesus as God's son, and Ash Wednesday. Many use the final three days as a time of pure indulgence and celebration before Lent. Celebrations throughout the world include parades, sporting competitions and dancing. One of the most well-known parades, at least in the United States, takes place in New Orleans.
According to the American Catholic website, "Mardi Gras, literally 'Fat Tuesday,' has grown in popularity in recent years as a raucous, sometimes hedonistic event. But its roots lie in the Christian calendar, as the 'last hurrah' before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday."
Some, however, take a more solemn approach to Tuesday and spend the day in prayer. Fat Tuesday is also known as Shrove Tuesday, which means, "to confess." People in primarily English-speaking countries often pray and confess their sins as a way to prepare for Lent.
Pancakes are traditionally eaten on Tuesday, as they are made of simple ingredients most already have in their homes. In fact, pancakes have become so popular for the day that there are pancake races held in Buckinghamshire. Kansas and Buckinghamshire have held International Pancake Day races as part of a tradition dating back to 1950.
Tomorrow's observance of Ash Wednesday will lead Christians and believers into the period of Lent, which is a time of fasting and giving up as a reminder of the time Christ spent in the desert. But the question remains: How will you observe today? Will you spend it celebrating and indulging? Will you spend the day in prayer and confession? Or will you work to combine the two?
[copied from World]
Thursday, February 16, 2012
OdoBan
.
I am completely in love with this multi-purpose cleaner. With all its uses, it is very cost effective (frugal). Take a look at the list:
•Odor eliminator
•Air freshener
•Multi-purpose cleaner
•Laundry refresher
•Kills 99.99% of germs
•Original eucalyptus scent
•128 oz. jug of concentrate make up to 32 gallons
•24 oz. ready-to-use spray bottle
•Fabric refresher
I use it with my laundry, to clean my bathroom, kitchen, laundry room. I spray it on my laminate floors and wipe. The couch and chair along with the children's table and chairs are cleaned with it. When I had carpet, I would use it on those troublesome dog accident areas. The possibilities are endless...all for about $14 a jug!
I have a friend pick it up for me at Sam's Club, however, you can get it online...but you have to pay more for shipping then what you pay for the jug.
I am completely in love with this multi-purpose cleaner. With all its uses, it is very cost effective (frugal). Take a look at the list:
•Odor eliminator
•Air freshener
•Multi-purpose cleaner
•Laundry refresher
•Kills 99.99% of germs
•Original eucalyptus scent
•128 oz. jug of concentrate make up to 32 gallons
•24 oz. ready-to-use spray bottle
•Fabric refresher
I use it with my laundry, to clean my bathroom, kitchen, laundry room. I spray it on my laminate floors and wipe. The couch and chair along with the children's table and chairs are cleaned with it. When I had carpet, I would use it on those troublesome dog accident areas. The possibilities are endless...all for about $14 a jug!
I have a friend pick it up for me at Sam's Club, however, you can get it online...but you have to pay more for shipping then what you pay for the jug.
Thankful Thursday
If you are my friend on FaceBook, you already know the excitement we had over the weekend. If not, you will soon understand why I am so very thankful.
I was woken Saturday morning with a phone call by my 20 year old son, who lives 13 hours away from his mom, saying he had been in an accident and was in the hospital. He and a friend had been out drinking and were stupid enough to get into a vehicle. They both fell a sleep. The truck went off the road, hit a field turnout and went air born. My son (who was not seat belted) was thrown from the truck. His friend (who was seat belted) was pinned inside and had to be cut out.
Both are out of the hospital and healing. It is only by the grace of God these boys are alive. I have told God thank you about a cagillion times already, and will continue to do so.
There is a silver lining here, my son is taking this all very seriously. He is publicly telling everyone about the drinking and his stupid actions. He wanted to see if the truck could be parked near the high school as there is a real problem with teenage drinking in the town he lives. He realizes he was given something his brother wasn't...a second chance at life. He wants to see why God has kept him here and what is in store for his life. He understands there will be huge consequences to his actions and is ready to accept them.
My son and his friend lived through this and I am so very thankful they did. Thank you Lord for your shield of protection!
I was woken Saturday morning with a phone call by my 20 year old son, who lives 13 hours away from his mom, saying he had been in an accident and was in the hospital. He and a friend had been out drinking and were stupid enough to get into a vehicle. They both fell a sleep. The truck went off the road, hit a field turnout and went air born. My son (who was not seat belted) was thrown from the truck. His friend (who was seat belted) was pinned inside and had to be cut out.
Both are out of the hospital and healing. It is only by the grace of God these boys are alive. I have told God thank you about a cagillion times already, and will continue to do so.
There is a silver lining here, my son is taking this all very seriously. He is publicly telling everyone about the drinking and his stupid actions. He wanted to see if the truck could be parked near the high school as there is a real problem with teenage drinking in the town he lives. He realizes he was given something his brother wasn't...a second chance at life. He wants to see why God has kept him here and what is in store for his life. He understands there will be huge consequences to his actions and is ready to accept them.
My son and his friend lived through this and I am so very thankful they did. Thank you Lord for your shield of protection!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Love my Bear
.
Today is the day for love. Mmmmm...I sure do love Papa Bear.
He's my rock. He's my calmness in a storm. He's my grounding. He knows my good sides, my bad sides and my weird little quirks, and loves me anyway. The Lord definately blessed me when He put Papa Bear in my life.
Happy Valentine's Day Honey, I love you!
Today is the day for love. Mmmmm...I sure do love Papa Bear.
He's my rock. He's my calmness in a storm. He's my grounding. He knows my good sides, my bad sides and my weird little quirks, and loves me anyway. The Lord definately blessed me when He put Papa Bear in my life.
Happy Valentine's Day Honey, I love you!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Eat the Fridge
Do you find science projects in the back of the fridge? Green oranges in the crisper? A bottle of...wait, what is that??
Food wasted is money wasted--not a very frugal thing. So, what are we going to do about this? Hmmmm {scratches head} let me think. I know! {Lightbulb moment} Use it up!
Instead of throwing that little bit of veggies away, put it in a container in the fridge to make soup with at the end of the week. Some meats can also be added to this. The water you drain off boiled potatoes can be added as well as the liquid drained off the veggies. At the end of the week, add broth, seasoning, noodles, rice...whatever you would like, and enjoy a waste-free soup.
If you aren't into the soup thing, you can keep your leftovers in a designated area of the fridge and once a week have a leftover buffet. Little dabs of this and that. The reason for a designated area is to keep science projects from happening.
If there are large enough amounts left for another meal, you can package them and place them in the freezer (make sure to mark what is inside and the date). You not only will save money, you will also save time later on when all you need to do is pull the package out, let it thaw and reheat.
Fruits getting a bit soft and no one wants to eat them? Cut into bite size pieces, add a bit of yogurt, stir and enjoy.
Groceries is one of the biggest areas we can save money. There really is no reason to ever throw out food.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
No Stress??
You hit snooze one to many times making you late for work. The boss was a jerk. You forgot your lunch at home. The car has a flat tire. One of the kids comes home from school sick. Your teenager has major attitude because you dared to breathe her air. Supper was something just thrown together and no one really cared for it. The dog puked on the floor.
STRESS!!
I've lived many years dealing internally with stress and anxiety. I've been able to remove many of the triggers from my life, yet some things are just unavoidable. Until now, I've just dealt with it...but no longer. I've been turned onto a natural way of feeling better that I feel I must tell everyone about. It's just way to good to keep to myself.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). It's a series of 'tapping' points on the body to rid the body of the yucky stuff. My friend Lori has a store in Princeton, Optimal Health, 815-915-4115 . What Lori teaches is a natural healthy way to deal with the 'yucks'. This is a technique you take with you into life. You can do it whenever you need.
There is no way I will be able to fully tell you the wonders of EFT, I highly recommend you research it for yourself...and call Lori! If you aren't local, find a naturopath in your area and ask if they are familiar with this technique.
Think of it, a life with little to no stress...even when the dog pukes on the floor.
STRESS!!
I've lived many years dealing internally with stress and anxiety. I've been able to remove many of the triggers from my life, yet some things are just unavoidable. Until now, I've just dealt with it...but no longer. I've been turned onto a natural way of feeling better that I feel I must tell everyone about. It's just way to good to keep to myself.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). It's a series of 'tapping' points on the body to rid the body of the yucky stuff. My friend Lori has a store in Princeton, Optimal Health, 815-915-4115 . What Lori teaches is a natural healthy way to deal with the 'yucks'. This is a technique you take with you into life. You can do it whenever you need.
There is no way I will be able to fully tell you the wonders of EFT, I highly recommend you research it for yourself...and call Lori! If you aren't local, find a naturopath in your area and ask if they are familiar with this technique.
Think of it, a life with little to no stress...even when the dog pukes on the floor.
Monday, February 6, 2012
I like football??
I think I might like football {audible gasp}. I know, right? Who would ever think I would be a football fan? Oh sure, I don't mind half-way watching a game when it's on, but I wanted to watch the Super Bowl, and not just for the commercials either. In fact, I found myself in quite the predicament during last nights game--I didn't want to miss any of the game and I didn't want to miss any of the commercials...when was I supposed to get up and get my football game munchies?
Of course, I decide to get into football when it's over for the season. I couldn't get excited about it when it was on every week. {rolls eyes at myself} Oh well, better late than never I guess.
Go Bears!
Of course, I decide to get into football when it's over for the season. I couldn't get excited about it when it was on every week. {rolls eyes at myself} Oh well, better late than never I guess.
Go Bears!
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