tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13472326889963868812024-03-05T20:04:55.487-05:00Virginia DebA journal of our families daily lifedebbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-87105140583819750992011-01-09T14:18:00.003-05:002011-01-09T14:59:09.177-05:00Reflecting<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsLVP5Y5SVnBGo1etkgo3wBy8UbtAygs9L1fSTO4H_okgTaQT-reNVXAJjcaHji8krw28_aOvGUtNtXoXsTdAYTWYEsjsgpF9CZ1jjOyH0LMebrEk87rBy3rqGLVjYhG8Hx-9KNzh2tI/s1600/dawn.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsLVP5Y5SVnBGo1etkgo3wBy8UbtAygs9L1fSTO4H_okgTaQT-reNVXAJjcaHji8krw28_aOvGUtNtXoXsTdAYTWYEsjsgpF9CZ1jjOyH0LMebrEk87rBy3rqGLVjYhG8Hx-9KNzh2tI/s320/dawn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560277506827240962" border="0" /></a><br />I had a bad time with my arthritis this past week. I had to spend a lot of time just sitting or lying around. The doctor had ordered me to stay off my feet until the medicine had time to take effect.<br /><br />I had a lot of time to reflect upon things. I thought about Christmas. Somehow I always think Christmas should be a problem free time. Yet if I look at that first Christmas it was anything but problem free. Mary had to ride at least 100 miles on a donkey or walk some of the way while heavily pregnant. There was no where for them to stay and the winter nights were bitterly cold. She gave birth in a barn -probably a cave and had to lay her baby in a manger! That baby was God's son! How can I expect any different for me?<br /><br />What if part of the message of those circumstances is that God sends us light into our darkness. He sends us love and miracles in the midst of our chaos. No matter how many things are wrong or go wrong he is still there and still offering his gift to us.<br /><br />And what a gift it is!<br /><br />I thought about last year. Like any family we had our good and bad times. I like to think there were more good times than bad. I lost my mom. My husband and I lost his dad. Our oldest son lost his job last summer and has not been able to find another. His marriage is in trouble due to financial issues.<br /><br />However all fourteen grand kids are healthy. Most of them are doing well in school. My daughter-in- law has a good job. My youngest son is self employed. By God's grace he has enough work to provide for his family. Husband and I both have steady jobs.<br /><br />I've found a church that teaches the Bible. The members are welcoming.<br /><br />Tyler visits Mom-maw every Saturday.<br /><br />2010 was an okay year.<br /><br />What about this new year? The new year is fraught with possibilities.<br /><br />What will I change as i go forward? What will I keep?<br /><br />I want to address some of my health issues. I don't make resolutions but I am going to jot down some goals. What I want to happen and what small steps I can take to ensure something happens.<br /><br />I think it's better to have a few goals and be able to accomplish something than have too many and accomplish nothing.<br /><br />An old Chinese proverb says a journey begins with a single step. What step are you willing to take?<br /><br />Photo credit-open photo.comdebbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-17514792326576415082010-12-10T14:37:00.003-05:002010-12-10T14:46:26.272-05:00Family photos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUQboJ2dXwlXqeqfLW1qz31m8KcfuD0QpffIrRGJ0CsiARynVDG7wmKOizBt-oYVbsSAND3cWNcdGIJ-V45g7uf5Ci-k5FGA866TcbVxww6Z2Aj824JEsYqH8DHYkMu0bImpoL4089zI/s1600/family+2010+182.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUQboJ2dXwlXqeqfLW1qz31m8KcfuD0QpffIrRGJ0CsiARynVDG7wmKOizBt-oYVbsSAND3cWNcdGIJ-V45g7uf5Ci-k5FGA866TcbVxww6Z2Aj824JEsYqH8DHYkMu0bImpoL4089zI/s320/family+2010+182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549140352024368354" border="0" /></a>This is Erica who is sitting in the tree in our front yard<br />They say kids need all kinds of toys with bells and whistles. She looks perfectly happy playing in the tree.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-36434725496054188162010-11-27T09:29:00.005-05:002010-11-27T09:47:53.745-05:00Thanksgiving<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfNrc1JndAcbw8K6N2oBAeWYbSZv1Kfy8lLJTh27y1ffA8Y2LOumcEBnKqpWDbXpzLF23E1XSJAWVdwsoIDIYzVpbpo0Tesu5VBoL0vraTIL01MhqGK2zLH1oA5d5iUVJfyqMSZ2ClsM/s1600/family+2010+191.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZfNrc1JndAcbw8K6N2oBAeWYbSZv1Kfy8lLJTh27y1ffA8Y2LOumcEBnKqpWDbXpzLF23E1XSJAWVdwsoIDIYzVpbpo0Tesu5VBoL0vraTIL01MhqGK2zLH1oA5d5iUVJfyqMSZ2ClsM/s320/family+2010+191.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544238664598274642" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighq0cmpbDc6xXJ4MIc_p7MJ4IfgevJiMdw1lGaxyhr4sJEYmzgfprIbLTdGI3BGHgl-f0YLNDIfuj0j49mc3m3kN8hLb50UuYtThRMCoF_1JteK5DKXfxlvEpDT6W8eQwvTJ4L_1m7Zo/s1600/family+2010+192.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighq0cmpbDc6xXJ4MIc_p7MJ4IfgevJiMdw1lGaxyhr4sJEYmzgfprIbLTdGI3BGHgl-f0YLNDIfuj0j49mc3m3kN8hLb50UuYtThRMCoF_1JteK5DKXfxlvEpDT6W8eQwvTJ4L_1m7Zo/s320/family+2010+192.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544236918791908658" border="0" /></a><br />On Thanksgiving Day my family gathered at our home to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. There are 22 of us all told plus Danny's mom, sister and aunt.<br />I love decorating for the holidays. The picture on the left is a little corner decorated with autumn garland and an old tableware set I've had for years.<br />It was a bittersweet day without my mom and my father-in-law. We lost both of them last month.<br />My father in law loved my cooking especially my pumpkin pie. My mom's favorite was my cranberry salad.<br />We made a new dish this year. The girls and I made a turkey cheese ball. I found the recipe in last weeks Woman's World Magazine. The picture on the above left shows our finished product. He's was almost too cute to eat.<br />I hope everyone enjoyed the day. It meant so much much to me to have all the family here.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-86176189299896254172010-11-14T17:09:00.005-05:002010-11-14T17:25:10.043-05:00GratitudeI'm celebrating a month of thankfulness. Even though my life is far from perfect I have been well and truly blessed. I thought it would be fun to make a list of the little or big things that strike a thankful note in my heart this month.<br /><br />Here's my list:<br /><br />I'm so thankful thatI can choose to believe in Jesus and attend the church of my choice<br /><br />I have a wonderful husband<br /><br />My children aren't perfect but they are awesome<br /><br />Autumn leaves<br /><br />Pumpkins and Winter Squash<br /><br />Grandchildren to keep me young<br /><br />Warm sweaters<br /><br />Wood fires<br /><br />Good friends who would be here fast anytime they're needed<br /><br />Homemade soup<br /><br />New Cookbooks<br /><br />My local library<br /><br />Pets who love us no matter who we are<br /><br />a steady if not inspiring job<br /><br />Hot cocoa on a cold day<br /><br />To be continued........debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-39301572169408444392009-12-19T15:47:00.003-05:002009-12-19T16:01:21.600-05:00Winter in the valleyThe big news is the huge snowstorm. We have received around 24 inches of snow with more falling.Currently we're accumulating an inch of snow per hour! We've not had snow like this in years!<br />The snow should last thru Christmas. It will be nice to have a white Christmas. I can't remember the last time we had one. And there's more snow predicted for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day<br />I did not make it into work today. Instead I did some last minute online Christmas shopping, some cleaning and some cooking.<br />It's been a good day to stay in and keep warm. I'm thankful the power has stayed on. We have a heat pump and an electric range so we would be in a pickle without power.<br />For dinner tonight I'm cooking pork tenderloin with mashed potatoes, gravy and steamed broccoli. I'm making a lemon pound cake for dessert. Tomorrow I'll be making bean soup in the crockpot.<br />It'll be good with some cornbread.<br />I think I'll try to wrap a few presents and address some last minute cards after dinner.<br />I hope everyone stays warm and dry. Enjoy the snow!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-5615389242647482162009-08-12T10:40:00.002-04:002009-08-12T10:48:06.246-04:00Summer DoingsI can hardly believe it's August already. The summer has flown by.<br /><br />We have canned green beans. We will continue to can as we harvest our tiny garden. Right now we are enjoying cucumbers, spinach and tomatoes. Is there anything more delicious than a vine ripened tomato?<br /><br />I went back to work on August 3, 2009. There have been numerous changes and it quite a challenge to catch up.<br /><br />Our son married his love in a very simple, very beautiful outdoor wedding last Saturday. What a joy to see this child settled. We welcomed two new grandchildren by love as well. That makes a total of 14 grandchildren!<br /><br />I 'll try to past pictures as soon as possible. Now I'm off to water the flowers.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-53593099075965949262009-06-26T17:47:00.003-04:002009-06-26T19:29:42.627-04:00FridayToday the valley got a taste of the heat wave the rest of the US has been suffering under. It's 92 degrees and very muggy.<br />I'm still recovering from my Wednesday overdo. You would think 10 weeks out from surgery my knee would be all better. That's not the case. It still wants to be a crybaby knee.<br />Today I did my range of motion exercises and RICE.( R-Rest, I-Ice, C-Compression,E-Elevation) The rest of the time I tidied up a bit and read. .<br />I'm just starting Terri Blackstock' s Cape Refuge series from the local library. The book is about two Christian mission workers who are murdered on an island off the coast of Savannah Georgia. This work of fiction is fast paced with plenty of twists and turns. I'm usually good at figuring out who dun its but this one still has me guessing!<br />Sure hope my knee is improved tomorrow, It's Addison's first birthday party. Don't want to miss it!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-48692244007534621092009-06-24T08:10:00.004-04:002009-06-24T08:41:40.703-04:00Welcome SummerWow, it's been a long time since I've blogged.<br /><br />As you know I had knee replacement surgery in April. The recovery period has been longer than I anticipated. I'm now getting to the point where I can set at the computer for more than five minutes.<br /><br />Last week my Aunt asked if I would ever go thru the joint replacement process again. I think I would despite the swelling and the discomfort that causes. My surgeon tells me some patients just don't experience the swelling. Those folks are so lucky!<br /><br />June has come and is almost gone here in the valley.<br />We've had a lot of rain. For a while I thought I would need to trade in my car for a boat! LOL! It's made for some beautiful lawns and gardens though.<br /><br />In July, my oldest son will marry his girlfriend and her two children. He's been married before so I hope this works out for all of them. This will make fourteen grandchildren total.<br /><br />I imagine our family gatherings seem large and noisy to other folks. When you get all those children in one place you just can't help it! They like to play croquet, throw horseshoes, run thru the sprinklers, catch lightening bugs and consume enormous amounts of hot dogs, corn on the cob and watermelon.<br /><br />Speaking of hot dogs, my husband has started making Mr. Foods' recipe for New York Pushcart Onion Sauce. It's wonderful. It really makes a hot dog special. You can find the recipe at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/mrfood.com">www.Mr.Food.com</a><br /><br />I'll try to post again tomorrow. Enjoy your day!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-19544248050197928322009-04-07T11:27:00.003-04:002009-04-07T11:53:44.114-04:00Recipe- Chicken Pot PieIt's colder today here in the valley. The western slopes of the Appalachian Mountains are getting some snow but we're just feeling the cold.<br />It's a good day to wear my flannel pajama pants and stay in where it's warm!<br /><br />I'm trying to get our home office in order. I can only work a little at a time. When I start to hurt I have to sit down. I also have to be on guard not to get distracted by the computer.<br />I love to Blog hop and I also like to play free cell. So I have to be very disciplined in order to get anything done.<br /><br />I'm having leftover homemade chicken soup for lunch.<br /><br />I'm thinking chicken pot pie for supper.<br />Here's how I make it:<br />Cut leftover chicken into cubes<br />Finely chop onions, celery and carrots. Saute in two tablespoons of butter until softened.Add a small bag of frozen mixed veggies and cook through Be sure to add salt and pepper. I also like to add poultry seasoning.<br />Make a white sauce with 4 TBSP of butter, 4 TBSP of flour. 2 cups chicken broth.<br />Combine the chicken, the sauteed veggies, and white sauce<br />Add 1/2 to 1 cup sour cream<br />Pour into baking dish<br />Top with pie crust--You can use like a Pillsbury ready made crust--I use a store brand that's $2 cheaper and works great. No one knows the difference. Of course you can always make your own pastry.<br />Brush the pie crust with a little egg wash so it will brown nicely. Bake at 375 for 45minutes to 1 hour or until the crust is golden brown and the inside is hot and bubbly.<br /><br />Note- instead of making a sauce you can substitute a can of cream of celery and a can of cream of chicken soup. You would add 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sour cream. I like to make my own so I can control the amount of salt in my cooking.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-9278748782728747672009-04-04T00:13:00.005-04:002009-04-04T00:48:16.613-04:00New MovieTomorrow evening (April 4th) the Hallmark channel will air the next movie based on the series ( Love Comes Softly) written by Janette Oakes. The new movie is called " Love Takes Wing".<br /><br />I really enjoy these movies even if they don't strictly follow the books. They are perfect for family viewing. There's no swearing and no sex.<br /><br />The movie airs at 9 PM EDT. I'm going to settle in with DH and a bowl of popcorn. Why don't you join us?debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-35693655133930590432009-04-02T22:38:00.002-04:002009-04-02T23:21:29.216-04:00What a busy week. I have been preparing for my surgery and recovery period. It has been a lot of work!<br /><br />I've dealt with the insurance company to make sure the correct benefits are in place and to nail down the amount of the co-pay.<br /><br />I've scouted out a walker at the local Salvation Army thrift shop. I found one that looks new for $5.49. I also shopped GW for a robe and a conservative nightie or two. However I was unable to find anything suitable in my size.<br /><br />Shopped at Marshal's for a pair of new slippers. Picked up a large jar of mixed whole peppercorns and a small container of whole nutmeg as well. I spent $18.49 after my employee discount.<br /><br />I've been back to the surgeon who reviewed the results of the family doctor physical and pronounced me fit for surgery.<br /><br />Went back UVA Medical center on Wednesday to have my blood typed and cross matched. The surgeon also wanted the lab to run a clotting profile. I don't do needles well but I do manage to get through these things with a minimum of fuss. I've not had an "episode" for years.<br />Unfortunately my veins tend to roll and constrict so I'm not the easiest person to have blood drawn. I warned the lab tech that NO ONE had ever gotten blood from the inside of my elbow. Of course she ignored me. Needless to say she got no blood. After the third stick I was hot, sweaty and nauseous. I felt like I was about to faint. I must have been pretty pale because two RNs and a resident appeared like magic with water, cold packs, peppermint and a fan. They kindly placed the trash can by my recliner just in case. <br />Once I get settled down they decided I would need to return to try to repeat the blood work another day. This is a real bummer. I live an hour and fifteen minutes from this hospital and gas is $1.99 a gallon! My husband will have to miss work as well.<br /><br /> One of the nurses gave me a CD that has a relaxation program on it. She suggested listening to it twice a day. I've been practicing the relaxation exercises. They're very calming.<br /><br />Bless my husbands heart. The nurse told him they were unable to get any blood and he would have to bring me back. He just grinned and said"I reckon you can't get blood from a turnip!" He's such a sweetheart.<br />I'm standing there with a bandage on my arm and on my hand. A young fellow sitting near by couldn't help but over hear the conversation. He looked at me and turned white as a sheet. I hope he didn't have a similar problem.<br /><br />When I removed the bandages there was not one drop of blood on them!<br /><br />Today I tried to go to the DMV to get the handicapped placard Their computers were down so that chore will have to be moved to next week.<br /><br />Tomorrow I 'm headed back to UVA.<br /><br /> On Sunday we will celebrate Sam's birthday. He'll be eight years old. I'm giving him a Speed Racer game for his DS. I also have a book of easy to read Bible Stories to give him. My daughter always has a great family party for him.I can't believe how fast time passes. It seems like yesterday I was wrapping birthday presents and making cup cakes to take to school for his mother!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-33066195805718913292009-03-27T11:20:00.003-04:002009-03-27T11:43:58.128-04:00It's official!It's official! I will be having total knee replacement surgery on April 16th. I am looking forward to getting my life back.<br />I will be able to go to work, get in and out of the car, work in my garden, clean up the house and play with my grand babies without pain.<br />I know the surgery will hurt. I know the recovery period is somewhat lengthy. However the doctor is saying that I should see a remarkable decrease in my pain after a month. I'm excited!<br /><br />I spent yesterday getting a pre op physical with the family doctor. I also had an EKG, blood work and a chest xray.<br />I was given a form to take to the DMV to get a handicapped placard. I could have done this a while back but I was resistant to the idea. I felt there were people worse off than I. Now I have no choice. Obtaining a placard is a condition of the surgery.<br /><br />Today I will be dealing with my insurance company. I want to make sure all my ducks are in a row.<br />I will need to budget for co-pays and make sure I have the care I need without breaking the bank. Since I'm off work again my income has decreased by two thirds.<br /><br />Buy hey, I'll be saving on gas. There'll be NO DRIVING for 6-8 weeks after the surgery.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-33236589009511864562009-03-20T14:40:00.010-04:002009-03-20T15:22:54.848-04:00More Weekly Wrap-up<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifA8tLN8Z1k0bmf5DV4Qy_pf-L1jlPI9E-DxtablqSCKPSC4r5tXWTJLBY11D04zOCcslj7_a6S1npfqqbn32NM8k9UDfCpUi0HKhB1rASUf84xrehSTFQ1v-TTkh0A6JjZ5hSJ_oSDa0/s1600-h/image-money.htm"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifA8tLN8Z1k0bmf5DV4Qy_pf-L1jlPI9E-DxtablqSCKPSC4r5tXWTJLBY11D04zOCcslj7_a6S1npfqqbn32NM8k9UDfCpUi0HKhB1rASUf84xrehSTFQ1v-TTkh0A6JjZ5hSJ_oSDa0/s320/image-money.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315351712411590850" border="0" /></a><br />Today is the day I look back and take stock of how we managed our frugal lifestyle and whether we are on track to meet our financial goals.<br /><br />Most of us learned to do lots of little things to cut costs. It's amazing how those little things really add up. So we hung our laundry, baked bread, cooked from scratch,packed lunches and availed ourselves of the library. We used coupons and priced matched at the grocery store.<br /><br />I also learned some things in Blog land:<br />I learned that we could deduct the cost of the replacement windows from our federal income tax as well as a portion of the real estate tax. The accountant says these are legitimate deductions. This will help us out as we don't have a lot of things we can take off. I can't remember which blog I read this on -- probably" Get Rich Slowly".<br />I learned how to build a space saving rack to dry plastic bags. Check out http://simple-green-frugal-co-op.blogspot.com/ to see the directions for this.<br /><br />I also sent in a $50 rebate on the new cell phone. This means the new updated phone will be free once I receive my check.<br />I was able to close one credit card account!! Whoo Hoo!! One down two more to go!<br /><br />Check out The Weekly Wrap-up posted each Friday at<a href="http://www.blogger.com/http//:%20www.gettingaheadblog.com/"></a> Gettingaheadblog.com<br />You'll find more great money saving ideas.<br />http://6269.<a href="http://6269.openphoto.net/">openphoto.net</a><br />photo © Darren Hester for <a href="http://6269.openphoto.net/">openphoto.net</a> CC:Attribution-NonCommercialdebbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-23921331363056646782009-03-18T10:53:00.007-04:002009-03-18T11:43:29.457-04:00A Beautiful Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOwrf3gUOHJ72c9wxE3fOt3n4iLFjh0cerZicUWg1FqV2J6hTZnGDWrXg0Xsrdz8nisKtMnouGVzpGiXBNSAOLznha5hqZcB4SwaAVs135jYBoUW9CuCVLXj2tE0BJHwQthjzdIhifkc/s1600-h/image.htm"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOwrf3gUOHJ72c9wxE3fOt3n4iLFjh0cerZicUWg1FqV2J6hTZnGDWrXg0Xsrdz8nisKtMnouGVzpGiXBNSAOLznha5hqZcB4SwaAVs135jYBoUW9CuCVLXj2tE0BJHwQthjzdIhifkc/s320/image.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314553430778025554" border="0" /></a><br />Today is a beautiful sunny day. We are supposed to have temperatures in the 70s. Unfortunately , we'll have a cold front coming through tomorrow so we better enjoy it while we can.<br /><br />I'm feeling a bit better. I still am unable to walk or stand for any length of time. Yesterday I brought the mail in and took the picture you see on yesterday's post. I had to sit and rest when I came inside.I was only up for maybe ten minutes.<br /><br />I'm trying to get everything organized before the 24th of March. That's when I see the orthopedic surgeon at UVA. I believe I'll be having surgery shortly.<br /><br />Today I want to take my grandson to the library if he's not practicing baseball after school. Regular trips to the library have opened his eyes to the world of books. He is more interested in non fiction books. He likes biographies and books about nature.<br /><br />In the meantime I hope to empty the dishwasher and fold the clothes in the dryer. After a rest maybe I can sweep off the porch and the walk. It'd be nice to sit outside with a magazine and a cup of tea.<br /><br />I'm working on crocheting some more dishcloths for gifts. These were a big hit at Christmas. I'm also looking for a sweater pattern for my little ones. I know I have one but I can't remember where I put it.<br /><br />I need to check on my seedlings and water the house plants. So many families are going to put in a vegetable garden this year. I know their interest is fueled by rising food costs but gardening is a great skill to have even when times are better. It's very rewarding to see a tiny seed sprout and grow into a strong plant that yields fruit.<br /><br />It's these kind of skills that get us through. If you know how to raise food you don't have to worry so much about going hungry. You don't have to worry about chemical contamination because you know exactly what fertilizers were used and what pest control measures were applied.<br /><br />When you can cook with fresh ingredients from your garden you don't have to concern yourself with chemical preservatives. And if you're using what you put up from your harvest you know exactly what's in that jar or that freezer bag.<br /><br />It's just my humble opinion but I think the food grown in my garden is much better than anything the supermarket has to offer. Well I'm off to enjoy my beauty gorgeous day. Hope yours is a good one!<br />photo © Michael Jastremski for HREF=http://11128.openphoto.net>openphoto.net CC:Attribution-ShareAlikedebbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-91028972213329804512009-03-17T15:21:00.005-04:002009-03-18T10:53:08.860-04:00Signs of Spring<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6Frswv8oSvMsRQbE-DSQHD2yjrMBSs5JDPaKIMOlGw3trfeTMf76T3q1iRXyMWciiN9Rxq7PW-et44EOnkhD37QfmU3Z-ZLCnlwEbAiZI0J9polSiFfR8DKHrFLUyvjo4aOgJcUpaj8/s1600-h/my+pictures+104.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6Frswv8oSvMsRQbE-DSQHD2yjrMBSs5JDPaKIMOlGw3trfeTMf76T3q1iRXyMWciiN9Rxq7PW-et44EOnkhD37QfmU3Z-ZLCnlwEbAiZI0J9polSiFfR8DKHrFLUyvjo4aOgJcUpaj8/s320/my+pictures+104.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314540801779689298" border="0" /></a><br />We're finally seeing some signs of spring. The crocuses are showing their happy little faces. These are under the maple tree in our front yard. I'm not a very good photographer but you can see the colors. We also had some sunshine on and off today. Whoo Hoo!<br />What is it about spring that energizes us and opens us to more possibilities?debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-17283553088524401172009-03-14T22:53:00.007-04:002009-03-15T00:12:38.385-04:00Rain and more rain!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglA-ojBXBUjAnERrEULgBUapc78vCzLB79DOzLDJmuY_zx4gnEKUTm135veG0fFTjJeCAmoi6PrVwlY2qaxv4K3AhISh8QDy62nXcL7Gnb4Nk6ipbBdBj-qHX75ejf2UlzPZI2DFUKbKU/s1600-h/leaf.htm"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglA-ojBXBUjAnERrEULgBUapc78vCzLB79DOzLDJmuY_zx4gnEKUTm135veG0fFTjJeCAmoi6PrVwlY2qaxv4K3AhISh8QDy62nXcL7Gnb4Nk6ipbBdBj-qHX75ejf2UlzPZI2DFUKbKU/s320/leaf.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313261210277978690" border="0" /></a><br />It's a really rainy weekend here in the valley. We started out with snow on Friday but it changed over to rain last night. According to the National Weather Service we're in for another two to three days of gray skies.<br /><br />I don't mean to complain. I know we need the rain ( we're actually 2.5 inches below normal rainfall for the year to date). I want us to have adequate moisture . I'm hoping for a good harvest.<br /><br />We're looking to get our garden plowed and worked up in the next week or so. I've diagrammed what we need to plant and where we need to plant it. I want to put in some yellow onion sets and also some cabbage plants. I really like the Stone Head variety of cabbage. It's a very firm tightly compacted cabbage with light green leaves. I also want to sow some spinach.<br /><br />When planting a garden it's important to plant what you like to eat. I remember when my kids were little. DH was putting in the onions and our young cousin was helping. They finished up around suppertime. When they came in to wash up, the little guy informed me he had helped plant carrots. DH said no son they were onions to which the child replied I don't like onions! You'll see , we'll have carrots there real soon!<br />Of course we planted a row of carrots beside the onions. LOL!<br /><br />Now we grow onions, spinach, lettuce, cabbage, peppers, tomatoes, green beans, cantaloupe, butternut squash, a few Halloween pumpkins, zucchini, red beets, cucumbers and various herbs. This year I want to try growing leeks, fennel and garlic. DH says I've been watching The Food Network too much!<br /><br />I'm working on getting my seedlings going. I have cucumbers, Brandywine tomatoes. Mr. Stripey tomatoes, Ambrosia Cantaloupe, Flat leaf Parsley and Basil. I ned to get my Jack o' Lantern pumpkins going too.<br /><br />My next job will be to graph out my flower bed along the front walk. So many flowers . So little space.<br /><br />..photo & copy; James Jones for <a href="http://18883.openphoto.net">openphoto.net</a> CC:Attribution-ShareAlikedebbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-6519834376084549882009-03-13T13:58:00.003-04:002009-03-13T14:48:58.982-04:00Another Weekly Wrap-upIt"s Friday so it's time for the weekly wrap-up!<br />We followed thru on our everyday money saving regimen. We do the basics of scratch cooking, clothes mending, laundry hanging etc every week.<br />It's time for spring cleaning. I researched some recipes for homemade cleaners.I've used a homemade window cleaner for years. I'm trying the recipes I've found. All I've invested is my time and $3.69 for a box of washing soda. I had most of the other ingredients.These cleaners work very well and are environmentally friendly.The house smells beautifully clean. I'm using the recipes found on Rhonda's blog"/<a href="down---to---earth.blogspot.com/">down---to---earth.blogspot.com/</a><br />I also signed us up for the budget plan offered by our electric company. We will pay a set amount each month instead of an up and down roller coaster ride of an energy bill.This will make it much easier to plan our spending.<br />lease visit Jen at her lovely blog<span style="text-decoration: underline;"> <a href="gettingaheadblog.com">Getting Ahead</a></span> for more of the weekly wrap-up.<br />We can all learn for each other. Jen has inspired me to make cloth napkins to reduce my use of paper.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-39139120467514406432009-03-01T17:06:00.007-05:002009-03-01T18:08:43.917-05:00Saving on Credit Card Debt and Medical CostsEvery week Jen hosts "The Weekly Wrap-up" on her blog <a href="http://gettingaheadblog.com/">Getting</a><a href="http://gettingaheadblog.com/">-Ahead</a><a href="http://gettingaheadblog.com/"> </a><a href="http://gettingaheadblog.com/">. </a><br />Check it out for more great money saving ideas.<br />Again I'm late getting this post up. There's lots going on lately.<br />Every week I try to have a frugal week. I do certain things each week to stretch our dollars. This include cooking from scratch, baking bread, hanging laundry, washing plastic bags and packing lunches.<br />I also keep a sharp eye on our bills making sure everything gets paid on time so we avoid unnecessary late fees. One way I do this is to place them in a red file folder labeled action. I also note the mail by date on the calendar. I do use online bill pay so noting the mail by date makes sure my payments are always on time.<br />This week I received notification from Capitol One that they intended to raise the interest rate on my credit card 3%. They also intended to raise the default rate to 24.99%. Three late payments in a year(defined as payments made 3 days after the due date) will cause your interest rate to shoot to the default rate. The reason for the increase was losses due to the current economic climate. Interestingly enough they offered me the opportunity to close my account and pay it off under the existing terms of 7.99%.<br />Since I have a small balance that's what I decided to do. I could have rolled it over to another credit card. I have excellent credit but I think I made the right choice.<br />It fits with my goal of being out of credit card debt by the end of the year. I'm hoping any dings to our credit report will be short term. Since we do not plan on applying for any loans anytime soon I think it will be okay.<br />Another thing I did to save money was to ask my medical insurance to extend my physical therapy benefits. I'm facing more knee surgery. My health plan only allows for twenty visits a year. I have 10 left. I asked them to extend me twenty additional benefits. I explained in detail how the extra benefits would assist me in making a full recovery and returning to good health. If you find yourself in this situation, you can check out the back of your explanation of benefits. This should detail you right to appeal and how to go about it. The HR manager at work said that our insurance carrier(who is widely known) grants many extensions. I haven't heard back from them yet. Whether or not they grant the extension, I had nothing to lose by trying. This is an avenue I wasn't familiar with so I thought maybe others could benefit from the information.<br />Well that's it for this week! Remember 'A penny saved is a penny earned"-Ben Franklin.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-58445622604327014882009-03-01T16:52:00.003-05:002009-03-01T17:04:58.286-05:00One Big Happy Family<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFbQ0JQ3xEjBFJbBtoVkDqhAGPT5vfKt2lpiO6uvhUvv7Qabvl9jOW2kPBFHn_jB6N1kbohvPtXWxRjBpy2LehrX0_o3X2ABCqyVqQuElVu8X7p7nijsaWF9qLu65W8ooUF4nmLdOPN4/s1600-h/my+pictures+084.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFbQ0JQ3xEjBFJbBtoVkDqhAGPT5vfKt2lpiO6uvhUvv7Qabvl9jOW2kPBFHn_jB6N1kbohvPtXWxRjBpy2LehrX0_o3X2ABCqyVqQuElVu8X7p7nijsaWF9qLu65W8ooUF4nmLdOPN4/s320/my+pictures+084.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308341385958383122" border="0" /></a>Here is a photo of our son, his new bride and their four boys! Doesn't everybody look happy?<br />This was taken right after the ceremony. This room is the mezzanine of our local courthouse. There must be a lot of marriages performed there as the room boasted some decorations.<br />The happy couple departed for some alone time after the picture taking. My husband and I bought our sons children home with us. Our new daughter in love made arrangements for her two to spend the weekend with their dad. I would have loved to had all four for the weekend but she didn't think I could manage it.<br />Please join me in praying for their continued happiness.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-37703100148788813712009-02-24T23:53:00.002-05:002009-02-25T00:18:44.377-05:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyvrP3wBDQhyphenhyphenO0jpnUZCzGDFCg9pzfs2-y2ekrzHlg6o6kVtTXynNBNTC7C2KMWNpzUROibOmvCub73zARt4MmMAlUoZzPz2AEc51JNDus_XOH-R8PizTKKO_Gg-5OFEEvvS4t_6KDxQ/s1600-h/100_0041.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyvrP3wBDQhyphenhyphenO0jpnUZCzGDFCg9pzfs2-y2ekrzHlg6o6kVtTXynNBNTC7C2KMWNpzUROibOmvCub73zARt4MmMAlUoZzPz2AEc51JNDus_XOH-R8PizTKKO_Gg-5OFEEvvS4t_6KDxQ/s320/100_0041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306599901978465074" border="0" /></a><br />I haven't been able to blog regularly for a few weeks. There's been so much going on with our family I've had little time to sit at the computer.<br /><br />On Friday our 34 year old son will marry his sweetheart. This will be his second marriage. She is a lovely young woman with two boys. My son has custody of his two boys so they will have a combined family. We adore her and her children though I do feel sorry for her being the only "girl in a houseful of guys.<br />They are planning a simple civil ceremony. I wanted to host a reception for them but they declined saying they wanted to start their new life together in a quiet easy way. Their honeymoon will be this weekend at a nearby hotel.<br />I know the boys are thrilled about the wedding. They love this woman who has been more of a mother to them in the past year than their biological mother has their whole lives. And her boys love my son.<br />Both of these parents want to keep life as simple and the routine as similar as possible for these children. They believe the decisions they've made will help to minimize some of the adjustments that will have to be made as they become a family.<br />Please join me in prayer for God's blessing and their continued health and happiness.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-22160935592892106142009-02-15T19:36:00.002-05:002009-02-15T19:40:17.328-05:00Busy Busy BusyYikes! I haven't had time to blog for over a week. My DH has had pneumonia so we've been doing the doctors office, xray, coughing at night thing all week. Poor baby! he's beginning to feel a little better at long last.<br />Hope to get back to blogging regularly tomorrow.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-66340817497380970502009-02-08T20:20:00.002-05:002009-02-08T20:36:28.701-05:00Weekly Wrap upI'm late getting this post up. This has been a busy week for me with two family birthday celebrations to attend, physical therapy sessions, 8 hour work days and on and on.<br />We did try to have a thrifty week in spite of everything.<br />Both DH and I packed lunches every day.<br />We ate in the rest of the week: cooking from scratch and using up leftovers<br />Baked bread<br />Hung laundry to dry<br />Got some coupons in the mail for free items at the grocery store. I had a coupon for free diced tomatoes, free ziplock sealer, free coffee creamer. Used them babies up!<br />Mended clothes instead of buying replacements<br />Replaced light bulbs in the dining room chandelier with energy saver bulbs<br />Placed an order for seeds so we can start plants fir our garden<br />We are on track to reduce our debt this year by making sure we are saving as much as possible thru frugal living.<br />Every Friday Jen hosts the weekly wrap up on her blog _Getting Ahead-. Check out her blog for more great money saving ideas!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-66590684238762993772009-02-02T12:16:00.009-05:002009-02-07T11:07:39.999-05:00The 23rd Psalm<hr id="stopSpelling"><br /><div><br /></div> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"><br /><blockquote style="border-left: 2px solid rgb(16, 16, 255); padding-left: 5px; margin-left: 5px;"><div id="EC_yiv1782767375"> <table id="EC_INCREDIMAINTABLE" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td id="EC_INCREDITEXTREGION" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; direction: ltr;" width="100%"> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt;"><i><b>Subject:</b></i> Fw: 23RD PSALM</div> <div> </div> <table style="width: 687px; height: 8829px;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top">I received this via email from a friend.<br /><div style="padding-left: 5px; margin-left: 5px;"> <div id="EC_yiv196073981"> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" style="font-family:inherit;"> <div style="padding-left: 5px; margin-left: 5px;"> <div id="EC_yiv816762978"> <table id="EC_mod_EDIMAINTABLE" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td id="EC_mod_EDITEXTREGION" style="cursor: auto;font-family:Arial;font-size:12pt;" width="100%"> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div> <div id="EC_yiv667299065"> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div> <div id="EC_yiv712631123"> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div> <div id="EC_yiv1418230635"> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <div> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;color:blue;" ><span style=";font-size:12;color:blue;" >I had not seen the 23rd Psalm in quite this manner<br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ><br /></span></span><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">The Lord is my Shepherd = That's Relationship!<br /><img id="EC_MA1.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=1&disp=inline" width="444" height="324" /><br /><br />I shall not want = That's Supply!<br /><img id="EC_MA2.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=2&disp=inline" width="437" height="443" /></span></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;"></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" > </span></span><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">He maketh me to lie down in green pastures = That's Rest!<br /><img id="EC_MA3.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=3&disp=inline" width="444" height="296" /></span></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">He leadeth me beside the still waters = That's Refreshment!<br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" > </span></span><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;"><img id="EC_MA4.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=4&disp=inline" width="468" height="313" /></span></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">He restoreth my soul = That's Healing!<br /><img id="EC_MA5.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=5&disp=inline" width="407" height="510" /><br /><br />He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness = That's Guidance!<br /><img id="EC_MA6.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=6&disp=inline" width="433" height="434" /><br /><br />For His name sake = That's Purpose!<br /><img id="EC_MA7.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=7&disp=inline" width="320" height="480" /><br /><br />Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death = That's Testing!<br /><img id="EC_MA8.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=8&disp=inline" width="519" height="407" /><br /><br />I will fear no evil = That's Protection!<br /><img id="EC_MA9.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=9&disp=inline" width="519" height="346" /><br /><br />For Thou art with me = That's Faithfulness!<br /><br /><img id="EC_MA10.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=10&disp=inline" width="387" height="529" /></span></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me = That's Discipline!<br /><br /><img id="EC_MA11.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=11&disp=inline" width="433" height="292" /></span></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 1.5in;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;">Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies = That's Hope!<br /><img id="EC_MA12.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=12&disp=inline" width="433" height="342" /><br /><br />Thou annointest my head with oil = That's Consecration!<br /><img id="EC_MA13.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=13&disp=inline" width="476" height="317" /><br /><br />My cup runneth over = That's Abundance!<br /><img id="EC_MA14.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=14&disp=inline" width="306" height="408" /><br /><br />Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life =<br />That's Blessing !<br /><img id="EC_MA15.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=15&disp=inline" width="347" height="526" /><br /><br />And I will dwell in the house of the Lord = That's Security!<br /><img id="EC_MA16.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=16&disp=inline" width="342" height="454" /><br /><br />Forever = That's Eternity!<br /><img id="EC_MA17.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=17&disp=inline" width="470" height="312" /><br />Face it, the Lord is crazy about you.<br /><br /></span></span><span style="color:black;"><span style="color:black;"><br /><br /><br /><br />What is most valuable,<br /><img id="EC_MA19.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=19&disp=inline" width="465" height="318" /><br />is not what we have in our lives, but<br /><br />WHO we have in our lives!<br /><img id="EC_MA20.1230851721" src="http://netmail.verizon.net/webmail/driver?nimlet=download&fn=Keepers&mid=14&partIndex=20&disp=inline" width="446" height="291" /><br /><b><i><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">'</span></i></b><i><span style="font-style: italic;">Do not ask the Lord to Guide your Footsteps if you are not willing to move your Feet'<br />Peace.<br /></span></i></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></span><b><i><span style=";font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:10;color:black;" ></span></span></i></b><b><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Verdana;font-size:10;color:black;" ></span></span></b><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:10;color:black;" ><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ><br /></span></span><i><span style=";font-size:130%;color:black;" ><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:13;color:black;" ></span></span></i><b><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ></span></span></b><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ></span></span></p></div> <div> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-right: 1in;"><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:9;color:black;" ><br /></span></span></p></div> <div> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-right: 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:10;color:black;" ></span></span> </p></div> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-right: 0in;"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:12;"><br /></span></span> </p> </td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><hr /><br /><br /></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> </div></td></tr> <tr> <td id="EC_mod_EDIFOOTER" width="100%"> <table width="100%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="100%"><br /></td> <td id="EC_mod_EDISOUND" valign="bottom" align="middle"><br /></td> <td id="EC_mod_EDIANIM" valign="bottom" align="middle"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> </div></div></td></tr> <tr> <td id="EC_INCREDIFOOTER" width="100%"> <table width="100%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="100%"><br /></td> <td id="EC_INCREDISOUND" valign="bottom" align="middle"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></blockquote></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><hr /><a href="http://windowslive.com/howitworks?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_t2_hm_justgotbetter_howitworks_012009" target="_blank"><br /></a>debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-4659756692074220092009-02-01T10:53:00.007-05:002009-02-01T22:14:13.751-05:00Weekly Wrap-up--Living on lessI decided to join the weekly wrap-up over at <a href="http://getting-ahead.blogspot.com">Getting-Ahead</a>.Every Friday Jen hosts a weekly wrap up of money saving ideas. Check it out!<br />I made the decision to join in because one of my goals was to save as much money as I could to become debt free in the coming year. Participating was a way to hold myself accountable.<br />As I review the month of January I realize I have met my goal for the first month of the year. I did not spend any extra money in January. None!<br />All funds went to pay down debt. I did not feel deprived at all either. I was able to replace most of the things I enjoy with an acceptable alternative.<br />Here's some of the things I did:<br />changed to a cheaper monthly phone and internet plan $13 saving<br />changed to a cheaper cell phone plan-no longer paying for unused minutes $40<br />Colored my hair at home-$37 saving<br />Checked out books and DVDs from the library instead of purchasing them<br />Changing my generic prescriptions to a $4 prescription plan-$16 per prescription<br />Price matched and clipped coupons for groceries and supplies-$20-$25 each week<br />Canceled Direct TV-$62 a month we get 12 channels with the digital TV we owned and our old antennae.<br />I stayed out of stores and shopping malls. I have more than enough stuff.<br />Of course i did all the normal things I do to cut costs like cooking from scratch, using up leftovers,<br />hanging laundry, making some of my own cleaning solutions and driving less.<br />I'm proud of myself. I've gone back to work now so I'll have more money. Short term disability pays about a third of your gross pay. So my challenge will be to continue to live at this level.I'll not only have more money to pay down debt but I should be able to start an emergency fund. I know I'll have to buy gas every week but I want to maintain what I've started. It's been a good thing.debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1347232688996386881.post-1046694663765695132009-01-28T12:12:00.002-05:002009-01-28T12:35:28.583-05:00Winter Weather!At last we have some winter weather. Unfortunately we don't have snow we have about a quarter of an inch of ice. I wanted to take a picture to post but it never got pretty outside.<br /><br />There have been several accidents and sadly a few fatalities from this storm. However we have not lost power.<br /><br />I spent yesterday doing chores and cooking. I'll be doing more of the same things today. I hope I'll be able to return to work tomorrow.<br /><br />I've been reading "50 Harbor Road" by Debbie Macomber. It's been very entertaining. Normally I don't read romance novels but I find her characters charming and real. It makes for nice change of pace.<br /><br />Today I plan to make a meatloaf with Au gratin potatoes and chocolate pound cake. This is an old fashioned recipe my mom makes. I make it when I can get the cake mix and instant pudding on sale or with a coupon. My husband asks for this cake because it's dense and moist and travels well in his lunchbox.<br /><br />Mom's Chocolate Pound Cake<br /><br />Your favorite chocolate cake mix<br />1 small box of chocolate instant pudding<br />4 large eggs<br />1/2 cup oil-I prefer canola but I have used olive oil with good results<br />1 cup of water<br />Dump the cake and pudding mix in a mixing bowl. Add the oil and the water. mix on low until combined.<br />Add the eggs one at a time ( i never crack eggs directly into my cooking because then if you have a bad egg your entire dish is ruined) until incorporated. Beat on high until smooth and glossy (2 Minutes or so)<br />Pour into a greased bundt pan that's been dusted with flour or a bit of the cake mix or some cocoa. bake a6t 350 degrees until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean (about 35-40minutes). Cool before removing from pan. Enjoy!debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09502995215668318993noreply@blogger.com0