tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56099579911002879142024-03-05T06:29:22.217-08:00 Living on Less MoneyA simple tale of a husband and wife<br>
who have gone from living a prosperous lifestyle <br>
to suddenly living with less.....<br>
and the joy of their journey.A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.comBlogger233125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-73852289772293715702023-04-14T05:38:00.001-07:002023-04-14T05:38:52.309-07:00GOD’S WORD SAVED OUR MARRIAGE<p> </p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px;">Kevin and I will have been married 39 years in April. It seems hard to believe. Often, he will tease and say it’s been the best 34 years of his life. I know</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKNJy0-zsEl_J2f-qewdCvuT6AhdEMXw3-0ydwfab-2uR5dRhmnFUPAlI-PlYjITk9vBUOCrHMxDPgNECzU_v73Jl5gd-l2vl_Y-0XcbX19mkam39xtpoZXsSRyiX7IoB-aip_gKsM-afluXv1g4Et0WUI68h9adcEmL2GVHesxO7C2nZWVLchECE/s3088/31404532-B579-404B-B3AD-555FC62D00CA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2316" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKNJy0-zsEl_J2f-qewdCvuT6AhdEMXw3-0ydwfab-2uR5dRhmnFUPAlI-PlYjITk9vBUOCrHMxDPgNECzU_v73Jl5gd-l2vl_Y-0XcbX19mkam39xtpoZXsSRyiX7IoB-aip_gKsM-afluXv1g4Et0WUI68h9adcEmL2GVHesxO7C2nZWVLchECE/s320/31404532-B579-404B-B3AD-555FC62D00CA.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />exactly what he is saying when he subtracts five years because the first five years of our marriage were rocky, to say the least.<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px;">We married in our late twenties. I was an immature believer and Kevin was an unbeliever. We thought we could make it work. We couldn’t! We fought and separated many times that first year of marriage. We had no idea how to resolve conflict in a mature, let alone Godly way. </span></p><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">Even though I had been a Christian since I was 17 years old, I knew very little of God’s Word and how to live it out in my marriage. I worked hard at being a “good wife” but when conflict arose I responded according to my emotions and flesh, rather than God’s Word. I wanted my way because I thought my way was right and he wanted his way. (Isn’t that the problem in most relationship conflicts?)</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? </span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">You desire and do not have, so you murder. </span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. </span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">James 4:1-2 </span><span style="font-size: 11px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">ESV</span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div align="center" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxevgsM6JKV1O_UD9mr11F4axzuQe0CancXofEAntqxNgX8RIlpiMDiUr4j89w_QcdeEfcgVNaXyXsA8CMpTNIj8o4C80x0-TMXGBwUAIVOLs5Fd1PmfmKWfoMUUMCNS2avbnJoWuaWXmkkQ8gwyc9TJRjYTZxIjBatyIS7ODM13f-q4X6e5etzYi/s2048/241973B8-F982-4EBD-9A69-E0D43D99B29B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxevgsM6JKV1O_UD9mr11F4axzuQe0CancXofEAntqxNgX8RIlpiMDiUr4j89w_QcdeEfcgVNaXyXsA8CMpTNIj8o4C80x0-TMXGBwUAIVOLs5Fd1PmfmKWfoMUUMCNS2avbnJoWuaWXmkkQ8gwyc9TJRjYTZxIjBatyIS7ODM13f-q4X6e5etzYi/s320/241973B8-F982-4EBD-9A69-E0D43D99B29B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 11px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">I remember a specific day when I had left the house after a big fight and was sitting in the car at the library with my bible…crying, reading, praying. My eyes landed on James 3:14 and I read: <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;"></span><span face="Papyrus, "Comic Sans MS", Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">“But if you have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.”</span><span face="Papyrus, "Comic Sans MS", Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> </span>(I was reading a KJV bible in those days). I said to the Lord, “Yes, Lord, that is Kevin! He has strife in his heart!” And IMMEDIATELY the Holy Spirit opened my understanding and convicted me that the verse was not for Kevin but for ME! </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">I read on…<span face="Papyrus, "Comic Sans MS", Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">"But, the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”</span></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">Well, I could see through this verse that I was not being peaceable, gentle, open to reason and I definitely was not making peace the way God’s Word said to. In that moment of time, God’s Word came alive to me in a personal way. God was speaking to MY situation- through His Word. </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfV-WPlb1NxtwSl-jq73N2DqXWO-Taq78twLpNtS0xNzHKxB3wqgvy0ez3fMGqUCtph9wgajVEOUedTcu4w9z3kXlYTzzQNNGDldOfmWgTnA_G9tPi8Xth3wemW-1nDg5kLQe89B5EcTd-rRqa0cZv_T-b9hqfDM5L8YolDEhzbrxG5GmWS23XgLw/s2048/4EAA57EA-AF6A-4010-A01A-DD71C6E394B8.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfV-WPlb1NxtwSl-jq73N2DqXWO-Taq78twLpNtS0xNzHKxB3wqgvy0ez3fMGqUCtph9wgajVEOUedTcu4w9z3kXlYTzzQNNGDldOfmWgTnA_G9tPi8Xth3wemW-1nDg5kLQe89B5EcTd-rRqa0cZv_T-b9hqfDM5L8YolDEhzbrxG5GmWS23XgLw/s320/4EAA57EA-AF6A-4010-A01A-DD71C6E394B8.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">In the coming days and years the Lord continued to counsel me through His Word. It was hard in the beginning to know how to find the scriptures I needed for different situations but the Lord placed godly older women in my life that helped me. They were my “Titus 2” older women. They knew God’s Word. They lived as godly women in their homes. Their counsel lined up with what the scriptures taught. They taught “good things” as it says in Titus 2. </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">Today we have a good, solid marriage but there are still opportunities to take up offense and not walk in love. We are home with each other <span dir="ltr" style="text-decoration: underline;">24/7</span> and even though we have both been walking with Christ for many years, we are tempted--at times--</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><span class="yiv3238805796ql-cursor"></span>to give into our flesh. I find that as we grow older there are different challenges we didn’t face in our younger years. </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">In fact, one morning this past week, we were both feeling unwell and were a bit impatient with each other. We had been practicing the church’s memory verse, Psalm <span dir="ltr" style="text-decoration: underline;">19:14</span>. The Lord brought this memory verse to mind and I became convicted that the words of my mouth were not bringing glory to God. As I asked for Kevin’s forgiveness, he in turn asked for mine. </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ95PNfcF3skozydtx3ANErXRBxHtxwY_KqxnWDT-pEm2BPC6BTvw1v940sB3hnaQr4Cfnl1_7SPA5YZ_e8bz4Awjh9AWOH2A7RS_7JrihGHQTuZOQznYDu6KOMYht5zcwzY6Qvn1kBUwn0xXe04WV-orlsL-jcq4Edw7ZQEXyGSl418heW_dx8jj-/s3088/07EEB7A9-A691-4604-80A2-C2AC12CCC118.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ95PNfcF3skozydtx3ANErXRBxHtxwY_KqxnWDT-pEm2BPC6BTvw1v940sB3hnaQr4Cfnl1_7SPA5YZ_e8bz4Awjh9AWOH2A7RS_7JrihGHQTuZOQznYDu6KOMYht5zcwzY6Qvn1kBUwn0xXe04WV-orlsL-jcq4Edw7ZQEXyGSl418heW_dx8jj-/s320/07EEB7A9-A691-4604-80A2-C2AC12CCC118.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">That is the power of God’s Word to convict us of sin, renew our minds and then give us the power to obey. The results? A harvest of peace and righteousness in our relationships!</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; caret-color: rgb(52, 51, 50); color: #343332; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;">No human counselor (unless they are teaching God’s Word), no psychology book on marriage, no TV talk show host, no womanly determination can change a marriage (or any relationship) to bring glory to God---only God’s Word can! God’s Word is powerful and able to change even a hopeless marriage into a testimony of His grace.</div>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-70044723621820197732022-05-07T13:32:00.005-07:002022-05-07T14:46:48.744-07:00<p> </p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyMwc1jjtvFIf6_brmPYfJ6uPqB3rU78VBY5rWd-8qZqC8GrxMDtSYn4MySqLfoGszjk2433RDuAFvSp0Qw0ajUyw5QmNQD-5TYr5YpqCSbhJAkLSj_RWSh_z_g4Ds7RXeMxxjpwvxuhdOlbvXcplUZEetMLcxf9iUZxzNO47wi7leuiv_SF9rhptb" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyMwc1jjtvFIf6_brmPYfJ6uPqB3rU78VBY5rWd-8qZqC8GrxMDtSYn4MySqLfoGszjk2433RDuAFvSp0Qw0ajUyw5QmNQD-5TYr5YpqCSbhJAkLSj_RWSh_z_g4Ds7RXeMxxjpwvxuhdOlbvXcplUZEetMLcxf9iUZxzNO47wi7leuiv_SF9rhptb=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is my first Mother's Day without mama.* So, it's natural that I would think about her probably more than in years past. I didn't want to let the day go by without giving glory to God for the mother He specifically chose for me. </span></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiMYKv095i3R7pBq4020ChWrXxfG1PY5P4WqgSgxXAy3ApQxNfXRoCjOwz8dKNo5CRWzD_YsNKw_Vqudz7hehTildMd2jkQav9E4Qs1xmcrZBTBdWG3oqD8za0KHrI0QIcvbv7psl7i8gtcAHH1vECX85IXHvenuYBKu9Lb0A0gi0ct7LdtxvRuw1j" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiMYKv095i3R7pBq4020ChWrXxfG1PY5P4WqgSgxXAy3ApQxNfXRoCjOwz8dKNo5CRWzD_YsNKw_Vqudz7hehTildMd2jkQav9E4Qs1xmcrZBTBdWG3oqD8za0KHrI0QIcvbv7psl7i8gtcAHH1vECX85IXHvenuYBKu9Lb0A0gi0ct7LdtxvRuw1j=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">I'm thankful, so very thankful, that my memories of Mother are filled with so many tender and sweet thoughts. Perfect? He</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">avens no! No family is perfect but the banner over our relationship, at the end of the day, was always 'love'. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">I've been studying the book of Titus for the past month and have meditated a lot on Titus 2:3-5 which teaches that the older women are to teach the younger women to love their husbands, children, self-controlled, keepers at home, pure, kind and subject to their own husbands. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhw7kffZiw0aii2NeMSG9XPljMrgAcaStIW4OilQ3ObQQsYOVltBbXAsOot8n1uJ8Pkjo7-UdgBE4PQiNLfe-lTgEVmYBpJRVb46ieQnq_bZSFW6VjMuBxBfSTQa_mTI9x9R1QaWGW3S6sPd9YWBFNvPdXJC46nXQ3mDkAP2RGrAqM1GhlzcKpzpszW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhw7kffZiw0aii2NeMSG9XPljMrgAcaStIW4OilQ3ObQQsYOVltBbXAsOot8n1uJ8Pkjo7-UdgBE4PQiNLfe-lTgEVmYBpJRVb46ieQnq_bZSFW6VjMuBxBfSTQa_mTI9x9R1QaWGW3S6sPd9YWBFNvPdXJC46nXQ3mDkAP2RGrAqM1GhlzcKpzpszW=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><br /> </span><span> </span><br /><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">Mama taught us these things by not only her words but the life she lived. She loved my father not only with her words but her actions. We never doubted this as children. She served him, put his needs above her own, adjusted her life to what pleased him. She spoke kindly to him and respected him. If she sensed Daddy didn't like something she was doing, she stopped. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">She loved us girls. She took us to church and taught us to fear and respect God. She cooked, cleaned and made clothes for us. She disciplined us fairly and consistently for our good. She taught us to respect others and to be kind to any living thing. She wanted us to not be ashamed to bring our friends home so she always kept a clean house. She put our needs above her own. Many a night I would lie in bed and hear her working to keep on top of the duties in the home. She laid her life down for her family. She was a wonderful example of the gospel... Jesus who came to serve and not be served... giving His life as a ransom for many. She was an older woman that taught me so many things that have blessed my own marriage and home. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqEM-47HglHAwpEpDjFicwdLXdERkA4BaARvWKNjkKlbwD2AG-XBIXRhwVII0hIRzFiKVGaXsc7xmhFJexCQIZq_PmbGO5zo5Gy7Mf0RQ4Gajnik5DSSiHU0ptusNPIVsiaOIQWNeCG3d4IuCUhLKnWzIgjgFmj1GeF013l5Lpa55BohdxCXiacDc/s286/download%20(21).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="286" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqEM-47HglHAwpEpDjFicwdLXdERkA4BaARvWKNjkKlbwD2AG-XBIXRhwVII0hIRzFiKVGaXsc7xmhFJexCQIZq_PmbGO5zo5Gy7Mf0RQ4Gajnik5DSSiHU0ptusNPIVsiaOIQWNeCG3d4IuCUhLKnWzIgjgFmj1GeF013l5Lpa55BohdxCXiacDc/s1600/download%20(21).png" width="286" /></a></div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">So, today, I realize that even though Mama is not with us, the good things Mama taught will live on in all the lives that knew her...especially my sister and I. Now the torch is passed to my generation. "I" am the older woman!! May God help me to teach the 'good things' He has commanded. May the way I love my husband, children, guard my home and treat others show the world that the saving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ changes lives, which changes homes for God's glory.</span></div></div></blockquote><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">…so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Titus 2:10 NIV</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: x-large;">* My mother left this world on September 3, 2021 after a 3 week battle with COVID. She now rests in the everlasting arms of God her Father. </span></div>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-25721086507694202532020-04-26T19:24:00.001-07:002020-04-26T20:35:34.827-07:00COVID19, Shortages and Trusting God <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">It's hard to believe it's been 3 years since my last post. I never anticipated that I would write again due to changes in my health. But, the recent Coronavirus pandemic has moved frugality to a necessity in our household. So, as I have been brushing off some of my old skills of frugality, I have also been thinking of you and wondering how you are doing in providing for your household when many shelves are bare in the stores? (Please let me know below in the comments).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My husband and I have lived through several lean times over 36 years of marriage. The leanest season was when he became disabled about 10 years ago. He filed for disability but we had no guarantee he would be approved. So, for 1 1/2 years we waited and prayed. After two denial letters he was finally approved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I learned many lessons during that time which have served me well in the recent years. By far, the spiritual lessons were the most valuable. When fear would try to choke out my peace, I would remind myself of the faithfulness of God to the children of Israel in the desert. And then I would set my thoughts on the present moment and thank God for what He had provided TODAY. Learning how to live in the present moment is a great practice to calm our fears along with recalling the faithfulness of God in past trials. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">So then, do not worry about tomorrow,</span></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> for tomorrow will worry about itself. </span></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> Today has enough trouble of its own. </span></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Matthew 6:34</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> We are living to see that our prosperity is not dependent on the president in office, how hard we work, the stock market or even the position we hold in our current job. Now we are given the opportunity to trust God and not trust in man or ourselves. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is a lot of suffering that has been connected with this virus. A lot of fear, loss of jobs, loneliness, uncertainties and the loss of loved ones. We have little control over some of these things. But, we do have a measure of control over the atmosphere in our homes. I was thinking about the value of 'making a home' during hard times and the value of a homemaker. We are given the privilege of bringing comfort to our families while everything outside may be raging outside. A favorite meal and special dessert go a long way in bringing some joy to a family's heart. Clean sheets and a tidy bedroom are by far one of my favorite comforts of home. Soft, encouraging words. Singing hymns. Praying for each other. Purposefully looking for ways to serve those we love within our walls. A favorite television show to watch together. And my favorite, the Word of God being read each day to instruct, comfort, and encourage us. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"> It may be tempting to spend all our time watching the news or searching the internet for the current death toll. But, what a waste of our days this would be. Instead, God has work for us to do today. We have a family to care for, neighbors to serve through prayer and sharing resources if needed and most importantly sharing peace with God which is found through faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. We may never live through another time like this the remainder of our days. Let's not waste it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCkrbNmEBNUfz_f60eu2wvzyI-4RXymGgedJbI3tjCGyrrbIDztaTVqS6mK805__kfxfFnvVLnXvmPMVLsrNZ1XPNaU1d9x6CYPZAPKTsT4afO5UPhuxmV8PrPYeTBYOOuFj9dSLI5hL0/s1600/4D4C014E-6035-45D3-B49E-917406C0B268.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCkrbNmEBNUfz_f60eu2wvzyI-4RXymGgedJbI3tjCGyrrbIDztaTVqS6mK805__kfxfFnvVLnXvmPMVLsrNZ1XPNaU1d9x6CYPZAPKTsT4afO5UPhuxmV8PrPYeTBYOOuFj9dSLI5hL0/s320/4D4C014E-6035-45D3-B49E-917406C0B268.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One day (if God gives us life and breath) we will tell the story of God's faithfulness through the 2020 pandemic. </span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. Proverbs 31:14</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo4nPzi0dxRwLVB58Q0BjaCjMHWtR3xu7HpyCxYjDyV3op4btiwdh77nkhlyenXQ3q8A2FrzYFieWYWDXEVYZchzSJ72UhLS7jKK1JZo03Z1MRu2trOZnyVhs4zT8zW8pQBmi8sT64-6w/s1600/06989F52-F365-454A-8E6B-7A2A1BEB265A.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo4nPzi0dxRwLVB58Q0BjaCjMHWtR3xu7HpyCxYjDyV3op4btiwdh77nkhlyenXQ3q8A2FrzYFieWYWDXEVYZchzSJ72UhLS7jKK1JZo03Z1MRu2trOZnyVhs4zT8zW8pQBmi8sT64-6w/s320/06989F52-F365-454A-8E6B-7A2A1BEB265A.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Here are some things I am doing to stretch what we have and make things last longer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Use less mayo and mustard on sandwiches. Apply this with most things. I'm using less toothpaste for each brushing, less shampoo, less dish soaps,etc. I get just as clean and end up stretching what I already have. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">2. Use beans to replace one protein source at a meal. The meat isles were looking pretty bare the last time I was in a grocery store over three weeks ago. There were very little canned beans but I did find some dry beans in the bag. I had started buying beans in bulk before this crisis because they are less expensive. I would cook them in my Instant Pot and then freeze in half cup portions. Lentils did not cook well in the Instant Pot but garbanzos did great and held their shape. I made a large batch and froze them in 1/2 cup portions. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">3. Toilet Paper. Due to health reasons, my husband and I would have a very difficult time standing in line for 1-2 hours to buy toilet paper. My girls and their husbands and my nephew and niece have been shopping for us. I do not want to ask them to stand in lines for us because they have their own families to provide for (we are only allowed 1 package of toilet paper per store visit). So, I have come up with a method that is stretching what we have on hand. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0095WCH6Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZEfOEb7S2QJ8A" target="_blank">Personal Bidet</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"> If you are out of TP or want to make yours last longer then you can try these ideas. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"> Use a hand held bidet or find plastic squirt bottles (think YELLOW MUSTARD plastic squeeze bottles or something similar. A plastic bottle with a bulb type bottom is preferred but others will work) instead of toilet paper. Fill them with water and store close to the toilet for the big jobs. There is a learning curve here. You may need to refill it 3 or 4 times to get clean. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Cut up old T shirts and put in a small, pretty box with a lid near the toilet. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Those of you who are <i>old like me </i>will remember how we handled cloth diapers when our children were young. Do the same thing with the big job cloths. I keep a bucket with water and bleach in the garage for soiled cloth. For small jobs you can just put the cloths in a plastic bag and hang on the shower faucet until you wash. Transfer to another bag daily that you put in the garage until you have a load to wash. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">* Now, don't get grossed out at this because over 75% of the world does not use T.P. We have been spoiled in the US. By using these methods I have been able to make one roll stretch for 5 days in our 2 person household.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51QDJgTfuqq3zL-iTWRmmMYEKt3J7QYWXcMxXlMVYbewD62e36zxhYhKbA5niEozn1yOK_JsXG7ZJ8JzUBE6N-lRZMwSKpC7fdRUWuPGAXpbAKG6rgHpWUmkiFTu27Gsp-dr6jhZaXrk/s1600/C7886746-4D5B-498F-B25B-9E6744B6B166.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51QDJgTfuqq3zL-iTWRmmMYEKt3J7QYWXcMxXlMVYbewD62e36zxhYhKbA5niEozn1yOK_JsXG7ZJ8JzUBE6N-lRZMwSKpC7fdRUWuPGAXpbAKG6rgHpWUmkiFTu27Gsp-dr6jhZaXrk/s320/C7886746-4D5B-498F-B25B-9E6744B6B166.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">4. Use perishables first. Examples would be fresh bread, fruit, veggies... anything that would perish. Next, use the freezer items and lastly use your canned goods.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">5. Save leftover coffee for the next day. Use in some cakes. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">6. VEGETABLES: I thought we were over our gardening days (except for a few plants) but this crisis has put vegetable gardening back to the front of our thinking. Seeds are sprouting of kale, melons, Okra, 2 kinds of squashes. Hope to buy more seeds for carrots, spinach and lettuce. There is no way to know how long this virus will last. President Trump initially said he expected it to 'wash through' by July or August. A garden is a good idea to plant now. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XRTCPPMRkk7phk2Y12wjkfx-G6Iq31SofOwN2djmoEV50O5U5PmqMXCaq46Bt7PxEEMag6rg5FIgAPzc9Gv1rVx3sA2Tpq0KM7h9r1YvX0qLPsDswMuj-jzQeMbXM6bLNrwWRvr1V7A/s1600/1BCB2A87-318F-4043-A89B-588948742460.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XRTCPPMRkk7phk2Y12wjkfx-G6Iq31SofOwN2djmoEV50O5U5PmqMXCaq46Bt7PxEEMag6rg5FIgAPzc9Gv1rVx3sA2Tpq0KM7h9r1YvX0qLPsDswMuj-jzQeMbXM6bLNrwWRvr1V7A/s320/1BCB2A87-318F-4043-A89B-588948742460.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">7. NAPKINS: Another item that is hard to find. I found some material in my fabric stash to make cloth napkins. You can use kitchen wash cloths, too. You can also use wash clothes or cloth napkins instead of Kleenex and paper towels (set aside for this specific use). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">8. KOTEX:<b> </b> I made cloth pads when my husband became disabled nearly 10 years ago. This is another item that is very difficult to find on the shelves right now. You can find patterns online or even make your own. I used old towels for the inside to provide an absorbent lining. I did not sew on snaps but just use a safety pin to secure it in place</span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">9. <u style="font-weight: bold;"> </u>MEAT: Use smaller amounts of meat in your recipes. You can cut your meat in a recipe in half or three quarters in most casserole recipes without noticing a difference. Be creative and look for new recipes from other cultures that use meat as a garnish rather than the main star. Replace the meat with more vegetables or starches you may have on hand if it's not a casserole... think stir fry. Go meatless every other night by making a pot of beans. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We can't eat too many beans for blood sugar reasons but this was a favorite recipe I used to make all the time when the children were young. Laine used to have a frugal website. I learned so much from her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Laine's Beans</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3 cups of pinto beans (cleaned and washed)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 garlic cloves, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 an onion, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 Tbsp. oil (sometimes I used to use bacon fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Water to cover about 2 inches above beans in a big pot</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and cover for 1 1/2 - 2 hours. After the beans are tender and cooked, add 1 1/2 Tbsp. of salt. (This is the secret to beans that are not tough. The salt is added at the end of the cooking process). My note: I would mash about 1/4 of the beans to make it's own 'gravy'. These freeze beautifully to use in other recipes or eat alone with a batch of cornbread. Top with shredded cheese and tortillas on the side. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxxHaVW97sX3mBjEMaBY22BSKhiscV1HfINnQrs9KZt28CF7-rTEqurnDaXBjvMaKaAk5ISHqpVeabpODbTm1S_GyHF5i2wcS6stZiHTTh1uX8-Xp-X6m9gaF9cKHeNBoLrOaq3Ib0aA/s1600/9A7E48EE-CF63-4A93-84E7-F4981B1A089C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxxHaVW97sX3mBjEMaBY22BSKhiscV1HfINnQrs9KZt28CF7-rTEqurnDaXBjvMaKaAk5ISHqpVeabpODbTm1S_GyHF5i2wcS6stZiHTTh1uX8-Xp-X6m9gaF9cKHeNBoLrOaq3Ib0aA/s320/9A7E48EE-CF63-4A93-84E7-F4981B1A089C.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">10. BREAD: I rarely eat bread but my husband and mother still do. Thankfully I still have 3 bread machines so my daughter picked up some bread flour and yeast and I will be making some homemade bread when our bread runs out. When my children were living at home I used to make a lot of homemade bread and pizza dough to stretch our budget.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is Laine's bread recipe. I've used this recipe for years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LAINE'S BREAD</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 cup warm water</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 Tbsp. oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3 Tbsp. brown sugar </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp. salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 egg</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 cup whole wheat flour or white flour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 cups bread flour (or skip the whole wheat and use 3 cups of bread flour) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 1/2 tsp. yeast. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I put this in my bread machine in the order given. Place on DOUGH CYCLE. Once the dough cycle is finished, place in a greased bread pan. Let rise about 30 minutes in a warm oven. Turn oven to 375 degrees and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is brown. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Quote from Laine, "It's not the money that comes in but the money that goes out that counts." </i></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use water pitchers instead of bottled water</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">11. CLEANERS<span style="font-weight: bold;">:</span> I am running low on Ajax to clean my sinks and my toilet. We have gone over our monthly budget in preparation for this virus so I am trying not to spend anything else until our next paycheck. I checked my cleaning supplies and found a large box of baking soda that I used for homemade laundry soap (which I no longer make). I was happy to find a replacement to swish in my toilets.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">12. Double and triple batches of food and then freeze in meal portions. This helps prevent the temptation to pick up fast food. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">13. Hand wipes: There are many tutorials on YouTube. I'll share just one. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">https://youtu.be/SVZh7JJpuP4</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">14. Dairy: Add water to stretch your milk. Make your own yogurt. Use jam in place of butter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">15. Make your own face mask. Tons of tutorials on YouTube. Here is a <i>no sew</i> one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">https://youtu.be/inJQexwK8Yg</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">16. What else can you stretch by adding water? Liquid hand soap, liquid dish soap, floor cleaner? I've been using a tablespoon of floor cleaner in a squirt bottle for years. It works just as well as if I used the recommended amount. Same thing goes for laundry detergent. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">17. Save vegetables peels and ends in a bag in the freezer and extra liquid from canned vegetables. Chicken or beef bones. When you have a full bag then make broth soup. Save leftover juices from chicken and beef to add to broth for flavor. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I make a lot of soups when we are trying to save money. Homemade broth reduces the cost even more. One piece of meat added to canned and fresh veggies will feed a family for several days if not longer, depending on if you add homemade bread of rolls or rice or noodles to the soup. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">18. I use the envelope method in my budget planning. There are many small areas where I save monthly for a possible upcoming bill. For instance, I set aside a certain amount of money a month to build the veterinary bill. I also have a household savings (different from our monthly savings for big items) where I save for household needs like a new throw rug or new sheets. During this crisis I have chosen to use this money to stock up on commonly used items instead. This way my girls don't have to shop as much for us because I am buying extra's for the upcoming month. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">19. I have been trying new recipes since I have more time at home. I try to make as much as I can from scratch. My list will look different than yours since I have food intolerances. But, here are some ideas to cook from scratch that might work for your family: spaghetti sauce, hummus, Sloppy Joes, Ranch dressing, any kind of soup you buy can be made homemade and is healthier and less expensive, salsa, granola instead of boxed cereal, bread crumbs from the end pieces of bread (freeze until you have enough to make one batch), hamburger buns, homemade tortillas... these are just a few ideas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">20. Buy blocked cheese and grate it yourself. It's usually less expensive this way. Freeze in baggies in 1 cup portions for recipes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">21. LAUNDRY DETERGENT: I used to make my own detergent for years but I stopped because it wasn't getting our clothes clean smelling. I think it was the well water we were using at the time. But, I am prepared to go back to using that recipe if I run out of detergent. There are tons of recipes online. Here is one I used to use from the Duggars: </span><br />
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Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap</span></h2>
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<ul style="background-color: white; list-style-position: outside; margin: 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 2.5em 0.5em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">4 cups hot tap water</span></li>
<li style="list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 2.5em 0.5em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">1 Fels-Naptha soap bar (grated)</span></li>
<li style="list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 2.5em 0.5em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda</span></li>
<li style="list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 2.5em 0.5em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">1/2 cup Borax</span></li>
<li style="list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 2.5em 0.5em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You can add 10 drops of essential oils but it's optional</span></li>
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Directions:</span></h2>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted. Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda, and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover, and let sit overnight to thicken. Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of the way with water.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I have never stopped making my own laundry stain remover because it works better than what I have found in the store and it's simple to make. I always have the ingredients on hand. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><u><b>Spot Remover</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">2/3 c. Dawn detergent</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">2/3 c. ammonia</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">6 Tbsp. baking soda</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">2 cups warm water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I mix it together in a quart canning jar and leave it on the shelf above my washing machine with an old toothbrush in it to scrub the stain. I don't leave it on the stain overnight. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">22. I think all barber shops are shut down. I did a blog post years ago on how to cut a boy/man's hair. Here is a link to it. Cutting my husband and boy's hair saved me so much money. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2011/10/frugal-fridays-how-to-give-haircut.html">http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2011/10/frugal-fridays-how-to-give-haircut.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">23. Use water to stretch make up items. Add water to your foundation. Wash your face first with a washrag and THEN add moisturizer, using half as much. Put foundation on while your face is still moist. Or better yet, don't wear make up as often while you are home. Mascara can be also used to line your eyes with a small eyeliner brush. Depending on the color of the mascara you might be able to use it for eyebrows. Lipstick can be used as blush. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">24. Lower electric output in your home. If you have 4 light bulbs in a ceiling fan, then unscrew 3 of them. Hand wash dishes or let air dry if using dishwasher. Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees. Turn off heat during the day and turn down lower than normal at night/or off. Open drapes to let the sun shine in and avoid using lights during the day. We rarely turn on the lights during the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">25. Save plastic bags to use instead of freezer and sandwich bags. For instance: empty plastic liners from cereal boxes, bread bags, vegetable plastic bags given in the produce section, reuse sandwich and freezer bags by washing them and drying them. Just don't use ones previous used for meat or dairy products or eggs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">26. Wash your own car. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">27. Bathe in much less water (2 or 3 inches) or time your showers for 3-5 minutes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">28. If you just need fruit and veggies between shopping trips, then try your local fruit stands. Ours are in the country and are outside under tarps so it's hopefully safer concerning the virus. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">29. Make all your bread items: Hamburger buns, hot dog buns, tortillas, naan bread, muffins and sandwich bread. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">30. Use substitutes if you run out of an item. Eggs can be replaced with gelatin eggs, oil can be replaced in baking items with applesauce. Here is a substitute list that may be helpful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.browneyedbaker.com/common-baking-substitutions/">https://www.browneyedbaker.com/common-baking-substitutions/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last but certainly not least... GIVE what you can to help others. Use the methods above to stretch what YOU use so you will have extra to give to others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><i>Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. </i></span><i style="color: #001320; font-family: Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Luke 6:38 ESV</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~*~*~*</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Here are just a few ideas to serve your family and others in the coming weeks. What a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity for many to be home with the family without all the interruptions that this busy world throws at us. I would love to hear if you have any ideas to add to this list. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Read bible stories as a family (especially stories of faith in the face of danger like Daniel in the lion's den, Esther, The Passover story in Exodus, and so many more)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Pick a character trait of Jesus to study as a family. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ The Bible Project has a lot of great YouTube videos on tons of topics that your whole family will enjoy. They also have special ones just for children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Quiz each other on bible facts at the dinner table. You can find questions on the internet.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Memorize a passage of Scripture together that relates to this trial (verses on topics such as peace, trusting God, do not worry,etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Listen to the audio bible together at your meals,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Send cards and scripture notes to members of your church family.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Encourage your children to call their grandparents and check on them.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Shop for your parents, grandparents and chronically ill so that the most vulnerable do not have to leave the house.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Begin praying together for those in authority over us as a nation. Pray for our spiritual leaders.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Call family, friends and neighbors for their prayer requests. Pray for them at the dinner table as a family.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Our church has a directory so our pastor has asked us to call 3 people before and after our picture in the directory. This is a creative way to stay in touch with church family. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Call and check on the elderly and disabled in your church. If you can't meet their needs then find someone who can.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Call neighbors weekly to see if they have everything they need. Ask how you can pray for their family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">She is unafraid of winter's effect on her household,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> because all of them are warmly clothed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Proverbs 31:21</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"> ISV</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely chatting with you again after all these years. I would love to hear from you. How are you providing for your household during this pandemic? How are you doing with the Shelter in Place? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span><br />
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A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-80998887792742187312017-10-15T20:37:00.001-07:002017-10-15T20:37:09.361-07:00A Proper Goodbye!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been searching for the right words to write this post. I'm still not sure I have found them. But, I don't like unfinished business so I'm just going to jump in with both feet (or hands! 😁) and see what the Lord will do. <br />
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The past months since my last post have been filled with good... much good! I've learned more about the Lord and how to follow Him through my daily life, the blessing of caring for my husband, family birthdays, serving, teaching, caring for my home and a host of other 'good' things. Life has been very full... and very good! I'm always grateful and amazed when I look back on all the Lord allows me to do.<br />
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The good things, although they have kept me busy, have not kept me from writing. This is the part I've had a hard time writing because I haven't wanted to sound like I'm complaining. I finally just decided (after writing and rewriting this paragraph) that I would just be transparent! More than two years ago I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and recently I was diagnosed with Small Fiber Peripheral Neuropathy. In between, I hurt my knee while gardening and developed Plantar Fasciitis which limited my mobility even more. The medication I was on for the Fibromyalgia caused my already fuzzy thinking to worsen. The pain, fatigue and foggy thinking have changed the way I do life...which has changed the way I spend my days...which has changed the way I save money...which has an affect on writing blog posts! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWX40UwBIB5QMrRwY__93JjJrlMXCN7bzPZb05tZSkgRmYd662yRuLQLeYuOFhdh6cvrN7i0rDMfL5meJ4ZqdagbCoj8Q6_LROGeEnYLA9rXAWW6N_XtM4R5uH4lYVUKKGOcGkoeHIII/s1600/IMG_1766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span id="goog_258256156"></span><span id="goog_258256157"></span><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWX40UwBIB5QMrRwY__93JjJrlMXCN7bzPZb05tZSkgRmYd662yRuLQLeYuOFhdh6cvrN7i0rDMfL5meJ4ZqdagbCoj8Q6_LROGeEnYLA9rXAWW6N_XtM4R5uH4lYVUKKGOcGkoeHIII/s320/IMG_1766.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son and his family came for a visit. </td></tr>
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This blog (Living on Less Money) shared the highlights of things I did to stretch our smaller income once my husband became disabled. It chronicled our journey from living LARGE to living on much LESS. Most of what I wrote about were labor and time intensive tasks that stretched our income in one area to give us more in another area. That worked out fine at the time because I had the physical strength and the time to invest. But, now the pain gets worse when I stand on my feet for longer than 5-10 minutes and my doctor wants me to stop working before the pain starts. I also have chronic pain in other parts of my body. So, this is where I've had to make quite a few changes. I've had to decide between tasks such as making meals vs. making my own laundry detergent...washing the truck vs. washing our clothes, etc. I'm trying hard to learn how to downsize my life and activities to only what is truly necessary. What great lessons to learn at any season of life!! <br />
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The chronic pain reminds me of a spoiled child who screams for your entire attention and I can easily stay focused on it... BUT... God is
teaching me to turn that focus onto Him and loving others...even on those days I would rather stay in bed...ESPECIALLY on those days! He
is teaching me to turn the complaints into thankfulness...to focus on what I CAN
do instead of what I CAN'T do and to do even the smallest of tasks out of love for Him and for His glory! I do it all so imperfectly! But, I am gaining so much more spiritually
than I am giving up physically! <br />
So, I am searching for new ways to live UNDER our means without using a lot of physical effort or time. One way is through contentment with what is already in my hand. For instance, I have old floor mats in my truck. They are very worn but they are still doing the job so why replace them? In years passed I would have replaced them to keep up appearances but it's not a necessity and I can get some more wear out of them. So, I'll be content. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4w6cMl700BXAPhfeMssF6iz_cDgXm4BJz6dvxKVigip3h1Oa4XJi14UJf1pgQ0yxAi1CA7_N3rSoUgNJEAV2y-ZyYL94p_OZbjl2N87Bp8fdJsnjTVK2IUucbtULLUn17impoqcQCVx4/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4w6cMl700BXAPhfeMssF6iz_cDgXm4BJz6dvxKVigip3h1Oa4XJi14UJf1pgQ0yxAi1CA7_N3rSoUgNJEAV2y-ZyYL94p_OZbjl2N87Bp8fdJsnjTVK2IUucbtULLUn17impoqcQCVx4/s320/IMG_1778.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was able to plant a garden before my knee got hurt. These melons were heavenly!</td></tr>
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I've met a lot of poor families as I served at our local food pantry these past few years. My heart has especially been touched by refugee families who have given up everything for the hope of a safer life in the United States. They come with the clothes on their backs and it takes months...even years... for them to find work and maintain housing. Many end up in shelters because they cannot survive financially. Yet, here I sit with all my comfort and still wanting more... nicer floor mats... when they don't even have a car!<br />
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Living UNDER my means! It's definitely a discipline while living in America which always tempts us to want more!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHgLHnzOp-_QZUZtmFavFCrUXNzCro_29KikpTOJmbLSUkeno3MqEESkqTg5ocIgiGhSvbewbwKuVXsde_Gh5Pj1KwZNcOXoM4cTQw2cszKy7gPAWTXVhVrvZjXw77waC_DyFLGu2EHU/s1600/flower.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="139" data-original-width="139" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHgLHnzOp-_QZUZtmFavFCrUXNzCro_29KikpTOJmbLSUkeno3MqEESkqTg5ocIgiGhSvbewbwKuVXsde_Gh5Pj1KwZNcOXoM4cTQw2cszKy7gPAWTXVhVrvZjXw77waC_DyFLGu2EHU/s320/flower.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter gave me this hibiscus. I enjoyed it so much </td></tr>
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Honestly, through all of this, I hope to know and love Jesus more through obeying the hard things in His Word! I want to give more out of our lower income, I want to share with those who have less and to remember the widow and the forgotten. Whether it's through learning contentment with what I own or depending on Him to provide for my needs or through trusting Him more each day because of the chronic pain... I want to find Him to be enough as I live with less strength, less money and less things!<br />
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Oh, to truly be able to say (and believe)....just give me Jesus! <br />
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*~*~*~*~*<br />
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So, what HAVE I been doing since my last post in December 2016?<br />
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1. As I wrote above, I still volunteer at a food pantry once a week. I actually visited this food pantry several years ago when we had guests staying for an extended time. They were short of help so I volunteered. They asked if I could come back the next week and I never left. I LOVE the relationships that are being built with the people who come regularly for food and most of all I love the privilege of sharing the Gospel with strangers and repeatedly with those who are becoming friends. I don't believe I could come stay within my grocery budget if I didn't have the extra food because I haven't raised my food budget in over 8 years! I am doubly blessed being able to serve and then being ministered to through the food! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNc5YuOAskTUhRLElSUcF3QKB5dcHiE5RUbkwdLRvS8o8peWau8sxFCEOWQ2f50a9Ql-FujSi0XZ8Jyzzh8uwTDPckRghzkGgjO9OnC6I5yWQi7Q8vdpCE-u06qfiI2bBeqkXHtLxkPic/s1600/IMG_1532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNc5YuOAskTUhRLElSUcF3QKB5dcHiE5RUbkwdLRvS8o8peWau8sxFCEOWQ2f50a9Ql-FujSi0XZ8Jyzzh8uwTDPckRghzkGgjO9OnC6I5yWQi7Q8vdpCE-u06qfiI2bBeqkXHtLxkPic/s320/IMG_1532.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My garden got out of control this summer. But, we did enjoy kale, okra, asparagus, squash and peppers. </td></tr>
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2. I'm relearning some old lessons on how to save money in my grocery budget through a blog called, <a href="http://www.thefundamentalhome.com/" target="_blank">The Fundamental Home</a>. I saved over $60 this month. I'm hopeful to save even more this next month. A few goals are to make a 2 week menu and only shop once during those 2 weeks! Don't go to the store in between shopping trips. Shop first from your pantry, fridge and freezer before you make the menu and then stick to the menu. Make do with what you have in the house in between shopping trips. Shop at discount stores. <br />
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3. I cook a LOT less meat! I'm probably eating between 2-4 ounces of meat a day and I've cut back my husband's meat intake, too. I've also cut way back on eggs. I used to buy a box of eggs per month which had 6 flats. I would use mostly whites and throw away the extra yolks. The eggs were imperfect so I bought them inexpensively. The egg store closed down and so I'm paying twice the price at the store. So, now I rarely eat eggs for breakfast and I've stopped making as many low carb treats with coconut flour which soaks up the eggs. My eggs last a lot longer. Good results have come from both of these changes. My blood pressure is back to normal and so is my cholesterol.<br />
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4. I try to double my recipes as much as physically possible. This not only helps on nights when I'm physically zapped but it also helps resist the temptation to go out to eat. I try to always keep cooked hamburger or leftovers in the freezer for a quick meal. I also either roast my own chicken or pick one up at Costco to keep bags of cooked chicken in the freezer for a quick meal. When I make a salad I will chop up enough salad veggies for 3 days. I make a frittata once a week so I don't have to cook breakfast for 3 mornings but instead just warm it up!<br />
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5. My daughter in love inspired me to reupholster my lawn chair. I found a YouTube video that gave easy to follow instructions.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7ph2PP-tPg" target="_blank">Replacement Sling Cover</a><br />
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6. My sewing machine was freezing up. I was sure I would need to find another one. I decided to take it apart and see if oiling it would help. While oiling it I discovered that some thread was lodged in between some of the gears. It now works fine since oiling and removing the thread.<br />
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7. I did take advantage of the free end of the year tax preparations and filing through a local county agency. Your local library may offer information after the first of the year. It always involves a couple hours of sitting while they fill in the forms, which is hard on my husband, but I think we have found a way to work around it next year. This saves me quite a bit of money.<br />
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8. I've used Quick Books Business Pro for years to balance my checkbook and keep track of our expenses. Our version was nearly 10 years old and starting to do some quirky things. There was no way I could afford the business version on our present income so I bought the version for home finances. Wow! What a challenge to learn a new program when your brain is not working like it used to! But, by God's grace, (and many phone calls to their technical support and help from my daughter) I was able to figure it out. I love Quick Books for not only balancing my checking book but it also shows me exactly how much I am spending in different categories. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My in-laws blessed us with 2 visits this summer! </td></tr>
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9. My own personal make up is a place I can cut back. In times past I used to buy Bath and Body Works skin care program. It costs between $40-$50. I love it and would try to make it last a year. But, it's one of those non-essentials so I found a natural skin care soap and moisturizer at Trader Joe. The soap was around $3 and the moisturizer was $6 (or there about). What a big savings. My skin doesn't feel as soft but in the grand scheme of important things in life... who cares!?! The next goal is to learn how to touch up my hair roots so that I can save $45 every few months. YouTube here I come! :-) Update: I learned how to touch up my hair roots! YAY!<br />
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10. I continue to hang the laundry on the clothesline because our budget
can't take the hit of an extra $30 (plus) added to our electric bill from using the dryer! It's so hot during the summer that I hang it inside the garage and it dries within a few hours. This way I don't have to rush out to the garage to start a load first thing in the morning like I do in the winter time. I have drying racks and clothes lines in the garage that I use more in the winter. I rarely have to use my dryer in the winter. I do my wash on sunny days and hang it out early. <br />
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I just LOVE this recipe! <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">No Sugar Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream (Dairy/egg free)</span></b><br />
1 can full fat coconut milk (or I use 1/2 can of Trader Joe Cream of Coconut)<br />
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)<br />
1/2 cup sugar free honey (I use 4 tbsp erythritol and 1/4 tsp. stevia)<br />
2 cups almond milk, or coconut milk or flax seed milk<br />
1/4 tsp. peppermint extract<br />
1/3 cup diced avocado<br />
green food coloring (opt.)<br />
1/2 c. dark chocolate sugar free chips (Lilly's or I make my own by using 4 squares of baking chocolate with no sugar, 1 tablespoon of Coconut Butter, 1/4 tsp. stevia or more to taste and I shred some parafin wax into it. Melt in microwave and pour onto a small tin with wax paper. Freeze. Chop into small pieces.)<br />
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I use the kind of ice cream maker with the tub you put in the freezer.<br />
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This is a flavorful and spicy chicken recipe! It definitely will be a keeper!<br />
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<a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017161-oven-roasted-chicken-shawarma" target="_blank">Oven Roasted Chicken Shawarma</a><br />
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LOVE this salad! The spice on the chickpeas is so good!<br />
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<a href="http://www.recipetineats.com/middle-eastern-spiced-chickpea-salad/" target="_blank">Middle Eastern Spiced Chickpea Salad</a><br />
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So, this may be my last blog post on how to save money unless the Lord changes things! I plan on leaving this webpage up as long as it continues to get traffic. It's been a joy getting to know you through sharing my journey of living on less money! I hope you keep in touch!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As always...I am blessed to be home!</span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Georgene</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I would love to hear from you if you ever have any questions!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">akeeperathome@aol.com</span><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></i><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-13282329873337216102016-12-01T14:06:00.000-08:002017-04-04T10:35:44.365-07:00When Husbands Sin Against UsHusbands sin! It's a fact! Another fact may be that the person they sin against the most is their wives...and vice a versa. <br />
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A wife often has an arsenal of weapons to punish her husband for his sinful responses or actions. A cold stare, a sarcastic
remark, steaming silence, a sullen distant mood or withholding physical intimacy. The world we live in is quick to promote this kind of response along with our fleshly pride. Just happen on an afternoon talk show (not on purpose, of course!) and you’ll see how
audiences thrive on one person standing up for their rights against another. But as wise godly women know...God’s ways are not man’s ways and
the fruit of those kind of actions bring nothing but discord and
unhappiness in a marriage...not to mention sinning against God.<br />
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I've often shared how the beginning years of our marriage were spent fighting and fussin’
with one another. Something would be said in a tone that the other
spouse didn’t like, then they would pop off with a smart remark and
the fight was on. I eventually developed a
small amount of self-control (by God’s grace) and began to hold my
tongue but my heart was still not right because I remained bitter and distant from my husband. Without realizing it, this
became my way of repaying him for the wrong I felt he had done. My response was sinful and did not bring glory to God not to mention the devastating effects it had on my marriage. <br />
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God's Word teaches that His children must "turn to him the other cheek."
(Matt. 5:39) Would that mean instead of avenging yourselves, prepare for
another assault, and bear it patiently? If someone strikes us on the cheek and we turned to him
the other cheek then aren't we preparing for another assault?<br />
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<br />
<br />
Is it reasonable to expect that our husbands, who are sinners just as we are,
will offend us repeatedly over the coming years? Forget the coming years...what about just today? What if we kept before us the reality that our husbands are sinners (saved by grace) and will likely sin against us today? What if we prayed for our hearts to be ready to forgive...and turn to them the other cheek? <br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do not say, "I will repay evil"; wait for the LORD, and He will save you. Proverbs 20:22</span></span></i><br />
<br />
I know that this topic brings up many questions like all the 'what ifs' concerning abuse. Please understand that I <span style="background-color: white;"></span>am not addressing physical abuse in a relationship. I am talking about the common, everyday unkind, word (maybe even harsh), or perhaps an angry,
impatient, demanding tone or the neglecting of a duty towards a wife. Why not cover those offenses with love? Why not turn the other cheek?<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"> Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8</span></span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9caiP54PUNcHP3iNIcshcbguXYuzLt4lTvEq2uScN_NWXeCHNfAlZ_Oy8a5QFxxQ6bZO1qsY-G81LWeCjFTyK82oasLnlpm7bIuH2-D8Ox8VJzc3AmL5LHjWkV425zN8QQ-fE1CE-enc/s1600/20160924_090524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9caiP54PUNcHP3iNIcshcbguXYuzLt4lTvEq2uScN_NWXeCHNfAlZ_Oy8a5QFxxQ6bZO1qsY-G81LWeCjFTyK82oasLnlpm7bIuH2-D8Ox8VJzc3AmL5LHjWkV425zN8QQ-fE1CE-enc/s320/20160924_090524.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span class="block-indent">The reason we forgive is not because our husbands deserve it...but because Christ has forgiven us! No sullen looks, no cold shoulder, no bitter words from the cross for our weaknesses or offenses that He suffered so horribly for. He who knew no sin took the punishment our sins deserved...and died in our place! We forgive our husband <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;">as</span> </span>God in Christ has forgiven us! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span class="block-indent" style="font-size: large;">Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32 </span></i></span><br />
<br />
We may have long established habits of responding in sinful ways. We need God's grace and His Word to change. It will not come out of our own strength for without Him we can do
nothing. Renew your mind in a few of the Scriptures I have shared and then pray for God to change you and then practice obedience. I continue to practice this truth...very imperfectly!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR268cfSmTDL0V0v5M4Kb55a41ctOraruXZZiLGSGzcpheEgZuG1Ba8Ga10HtEIxUx8HIBuis08I7xV0TZgkjVMEK692v52Qmnvem2CsMqf30qza8tiEzst9t6BeCUGQsR5ZebFAfom68/s1600/2016-02-14+17.05.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR268cfSmTDL0V0v5M4Kb55a41ctOraruXZZiLGSGzcpheEgZuG1Ba8Ga10HtEIxUx8HIBuis08I7xV0TZgkjVMEK692v52Qmnvem2CsMqf30qza8tiEzst9t6BeCUGQsR5ZebFAfom68/s320/2016-02-14+17.05.46.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
Oh, what a glorious
fragrance when the life that is pouring forth from us is not our flesh
but the life of Christ. A fragrance that permeates our homes and the
lives of all those within the walls of our home.<br />
<br />
"Lord, please help us to bring you glory by not holding unforgiveness towards our husbands when they sin against us. Help us remember the way you have forgiven us and help us to extend that grace to our husbands. Help us to remember that we daily sin against our husbands and are in need of their forgiveness, too! In Jesus Name. Amen."<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for what he has done.” Proverbs 24:29 </span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><span class="p"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1</span></span></i><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="p">*~*~*~*~*</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p" style="font-size: large;"><i>Hello!</i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">Life is speeding by this time of year even though I am moving slower. I'm getting less done but it still gives me a grateful heart when I look at what the Lord does enable me to do throughout the month instead of what I can't do. Christmas is nearly here with all the blessings of warm homes, heavier blankets and earlier evenings spent snuggled indoors.The vegetable garden and all it's work is behind me except for some tree trimming and a few beds needing to be prepared for the winter months. I've been working on getting as much done ahead of time for the holidays as I can. How about you? </span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">Here are a few things I was able to accomplish this month (by God's grace)... </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<br />
1. I blanched and froze tomatoes from the garden this summer. So, I recently made a batch of spicy tomato sauce and pressure canned it. I had leftover basil and parsley from the recipe which I froze in ice cube trays with olive oil poured over them. When they were frozen I placed them in a freezer bag and marked the bags for the freezer. This has preserved the herbs better than putting them in water. I can now easily toss them in a pot of homemade soup. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq1aYmJ_uJQ/V-nnSd1StDI/AAAAAAAADpw/97eRqfRlrWcKt8Tn_aHZVL4rdvl-24qpwCPcB/s1600/20160926_101635.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq1aYmJ_uJQ/V-nnSd1StDI/AAAAAAAADpw/97eRqfRlrWcKt8Tn_aHZVL4rdvl-24qpwCPcB/s320/20160926_101635.mp4" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My amazing mother in love!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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2. This summer I also harvested the poblano peppers from our garden to use later in Chile rellenos, I
broiled the peppers and then wrapped them in a moistened tea towel and placed them in a freezer bag to 'steam'. Once cooled I peeled off the skins
and took out the seeds. I should have remembered to take out the seeds
BEFORE I broiled them. I then froze them with parchment paper in between. <br />
<br />
3. I was given 2 large grocery
sacks of Granny Smith apple from a friend. They were so sweet and
delicious! I peeled, sliced and froze them in 6 cup portions for future
apple pies for the holidays (regular and low carb). I also made a low carb apple
crisp.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8a3-wtITr7dRpHvzHOsB0Zz8HfEPteUZrTruiSld8AJh5OmD-SD6da9hZ5oAUMaweKQX0C5_TQE3V84rPo5A3sH5MibSVn67G4QiWqbDw2ilHJ39-8SteHYOZLuzEvMDxShk9eTT4uA/s1600/20160926_200056_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8a3-wtITr7dRpHvzHOsB0Zz8HfEPteUZrTruiSld8AJh5OmD-SD6da9hZ5oAUMaweKQX0C5_TQE3V84rPo5A3sH5MibSVn67G4QiWqbDw2ilHJ39-8SteHYOZLuzEvMDxShk9eTT4uA/s320/20160926_200056_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A recent family visit!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
4. I saved the broth from some chicken I
boiled. The cold, winter months are just around the corner and I love to
make large pots of soup to use for our lunches during the week. The granular broth has a long list
of items I don't want to consume and one can of liquid broth had soy (which I am trying to not eat).
So, I am hoping to make more of my own broth to freeze in the coming months. I also froze my turkey bones to make broth later.<br />
<br />
5.
I've made a change when it comes to my laundry detergent. I've been
making my own detergent for maybe 10 plus years? But, my husband commented a
few months ago that his shirts were not smelling like they were clean. I
had also been noticing that my towels had a different smell that I
didn't care for. So, I wanted to let you know I am no longer making my
own laundry soap but I am purchasing the SUN brand of laundry detergent.
It's inexpensive and our clothes are smelling clean (not like perfume,
but clean). Hubby is pleased. Sometimes saving money is not worth it in the long run if the end results are lacking (or stinky!).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWujdOqz-ZQAq-gr6FZegrxttpcjFVf1ZQlTOFAKVJzg9D2T1lB56vcRP_g8GK8mfLTivyAKItKYJnh28PBb8a6Tgw-r8qr_uVkI6y0Fy2HHsWNCez07Dy4I_qmHCxVLnUgL3Y23lXFh8/s1600/20160924_102248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWujdOqz-ZQAq-gr6FZegrxttpcjFVf1ZQlTOFAKVJzg9D2T1lB56vcRP_g8GK8mfLTivyAKItKYJnh28PBb8a6Tgw-r8qr_uVkI6y0Fy2HHsWNCez07Dy4I_qmHCxVLnUgL3Y23lXFh8/s320/20160924_102248.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterfly Palace with grandchildren</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
6. Another change is the homemade cleaner (half white vinegar/half water) I
was using to mop my laminate wood floors. The vinegar and water just
never seemed to make the floors look clean. So, I purchased Murphy's Oil
Soap and added just 1 capful to my homemade cleaner. What a difference that made. The bottle will last a very long time since I am only using a capful. <br />
<br />
7. I cashed in my SWAGBUCKS for a $10 Amazon
gift card which I will use on an Amazon order. I made SWAGBUCKS my home page so it reminds me to watch a
video or do a survery everyday to earn more Swagbucks. I love Swagbucks
because it's an easy way to earn gift cards at home. Here is my referral
link. I get credit if you sign up through this link. (Thank you!) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/georgene" target="_blank">SWAGBUCKS REWARD LINK</a><br />
<br />
8. I had someone ask me recently what my secret was to making a fluffy chocolate chip cookies. I've gathered a few tips over the years from friends and articles on the internet. I use half butter and half shortening instead of all butter. I also add about 1/4 cup more flour. Lastly, I refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before I bake the cookies and then I keep the dough in the fridge in between filling up the cookie trays. I hope these tricks work for you as well as they have worked for me.<br />
<br />
9. I love MAGIC ERASERS to clean my fridge, walls and cabinets. They don't last very long, though. I noticed the ends wear out before the middle. This time I cut off both ends and I'm still getting use out of the middle instead of just throwing the eraser away.<br />
<br />
10. Organic butter lettuce was on sale for 2/$5. A thought came to me as I was starting to throw away the roots. I planted them to see if they would grow more leaves AND THEY DID! I put some organic snail bait around them to deter the snails and the leaves are getting so big. Who would have thunk! *smile*<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzTYrSgrJ2WuuVNnwk4mA6-M0owXeY0Oku4qmVYP2V29t52z2IzNjvTHdg8lwe__RTLyUBmSBwQClo0DGFTSz2i-MTuu3uqukZ1zDpFdwObk7Xy6woj8TE94_IO2dEzeDwSIa-lB7fA0/s1600/20161126_092347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzTYrSgrJ2WuuVNnwk4mA6-M0owXeY0Oku4qmVYP2V29t52z2IzNjvTHdg8lwe__RTLyUBmSBwQClo0DGFTSz2i-MTuu3uqukZ1zDpFdwObk7Xy6woj8TE94_IO2dEzeDwSIa-lB7fA0/s320/20161126_092347.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Repurposed, Saved and Reused! </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">~ Melon rinds, egg shells, carrot peels, broccoli stalks, coffee grounds, ling, apple peels, cabbage cores,etc. were buried in the ground to compost over the winter. I am laying newspaper on top and then grass clippings and leaves on top of the newspaper. It will all be composted into the ground by the time summer gets here. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">~ Powdered sugar bags, broccoli salad bags, brownie mix bags: washed out and reused. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Mayo jars: washed/reused to store egg yolks until garbage day. ( I use more egg whites than the yolk)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Plastic vegetables bags (from the produce department): I used these for tons of things. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ All glass jars are rinsed and reused to store grease drippings. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Leaves are falling so I'm putting them around the artichokes and other plants to protect them from frost and the colder temperatures. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Newspapers saved for lining the garbage can, composting, under the cat box, etc. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Rubber bands from the newspapers and vegetables are saved to reuse. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Large shallow boxes from Costco are reused to transport food in our truck to holiday parties/ or mom's. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Laundry water is recycled to plants.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2h_6YmjjgTJFbZKfT5YyV8dmmgF3KIWXtTYSxKjr71PGRUFQ3L9JwqqYhlSvVR06YmbjewF7TcBOg9jQpuT3E068SOftv3SDmVxeOCarqKdtLLr9OIgtvzRqez-YK6TU6r45klNK4y4Y/s1600/20161126_092408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2h_6YmjjgTJFbZKfT5YyV8dmmgF3KIWXtTYSxKjr71PGRUFQ3L9JwqqYhlSvVR06YmbjewF7TcBOg9jQpuT3E068SOftv3SDmVxeOCarqKdtLLr9OIgtvzRqez-YK6TU6r45klNK4y4Y/s320/20161126_092408.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burying compost </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;"><u><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">NEW RECIPES:</span></b></i></u></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Low Carb Sloppy Dog Casserole</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">14 ounces of hot dog, cut on</span> bias (I only had 2 organic hot dogs and 2 hot links on hand, not organic!)<br />
1 pound ground beef (I used ground turkey)<br />
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped (didn't use)<br />
1 small onion, chopped<br />
1 garlic clove, minced<br />
8 ounces tomato sauce<br />
1/4 cup. sweetener (I used Erythritol. Adjust to desired sweetness)<br />
1/2 tsp. molasses ( Adjust to desired sweetness)<br />
2 tbsp. vinegar<br />
1 tsp. mustard<br />
1 tbsp. worcestershire<br />
1 tsp. salt<br />
1/4 tsp. pepper<br />
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (I used FOLLOW YOUR HEART dairy free cheese on my portion)<br />
<br />
Fry
the hot dogs first to brown and set aside. Saute ground beef, bell
pepper, onion and garlic. Mix together the remaining ingredients except
the cheese. Place in 2 quart casserole and place cheese on top. Bake
uncovered at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes until heated through. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQeUOf93D5oh_Mr3AKWlMY_b-iNs_bWWj82qjJ8u3xyPjwVcmQ750z2HPCIvdbzOWlZ1KnwELyjnz3172Waq0o0EXukTwQ4l7tGU83q3okK7hftlRqG1E3ORwYLuIn7HkFRSaaPqgEpE/s1600/20161126_202048_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQeUOf93D5oh_Mr3AKWlMY_b-iNs_bWWj82qjJ8u3xyPjwVcmQ750z2HPCIvdbzOWlZ1KnwELyjnz3172Waq0o0EXukTwQ4l7tGU83q3okK7hftlRqG1E3ORwYLuIn7HkFRSaaPqgEpE/s320/20161126_202048_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Snoopy enjoying a long winter's nap!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>JALAPENO JELLY </b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I made a few batches for Christmas gifts from the jalapeno harvest from our garden. </span></i></span></div>
<br />
1 cup chopped red bell pepper<br />
1/2 cup chopped jalapeno pepper<br />
6 cups white sugar<br />
1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar<br />
1 (6 fluid ounce) liquid pectin<br />
<br />
1. Boil peppers for 2 minutes.<br />
2. Add pectin. Boil 1 minute<br />
3. Pour into hot jars.<br />
4. Water bath for 5 minutes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3X8CQWws7mhMvMwjA9QKKMU9KkvsN99IAjZTSb6L4eLWHpaIbonuWMbEzw1CLShD7hw6CbH2e21vY8-JzBqzLYamoNlkXrcNIF61yEn-OZikOzhSagcsKiqrxj0lgYZY_8CZHI0bp6g/s1600/20161123_102937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3X8CQWws7mhMvMwjA9QKKMU9KkvsN99IAjZTSb6L4eLWHpaIbonuWMbEzw1CLShD7hw6CbH2e21vY8-JzBqzLYamoNlkXrcNIF61yEn-OZikOzhSagcsKiqrxj0lgYZY_8CZHI0bp6g/s320/20161123_102937.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade Chocolate Pie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">HEALTHY PUMPKIN GOOEY BUTTER CAKE (Low Carb)</span></b><br />
<br />
(by healthy indulgences, http://healthyindulgences.net/)<br />
This was heavenly! Next time I will make half of the crust<span style="font-size: small;"> and see if I like a thinner crust. </span> I also let the filling cook about 5 minutes longer than stated. It did well freezing it, too. <br />
<br />
<div class="recipe-section ingredient brown-text-nh">
<div class="section-title">
Crust Layer</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="text">
1/4 cup (57g) of unsalted butter, melted</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
2 ounces (57g) of cream cheese, softened (I used dairy free)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
2 cups (8 ounces blanched almond flour, gently packed into cup and leveled) (I used my baking blend with pumpkin seed flour)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 large egg</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1/8 teaspoon sea salt</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
3/4 cup Erythritol or 1/2 cup xylitol / and 1/4 tsp. stevia extract</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1/2 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="recipe-section ingredient brown-text-nh">
<div class="section-title">
Filling Layer</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="text">
8 ounces (227g) cream cheese ( I used dairy free)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 stick (113g) unsalted butter, melted (i used dairy free)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1-15 oz can (432g) of pumpkin puree</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
3 large eggs</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
3/4 cup erythritol or 1/2 cup xylitol /and 1/4 tsp. stevia</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 and 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1 teaspoon nutmeg</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
1/4 teaspoon ginger</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="recipe-section method brown-text-nh">
<div class="section-title">
Instructions</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="text">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="recipe-section method brown-text-nh">
<div class="section-title">
For the crust</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="text">
Melt butter and soften cream cheese in microwave.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Powder natural sweetener blend in coffee grinder and mix into batter.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Mix together until smooth, then add beat in vanilla, egg, sea salt, baking powder, and almond flour until a dough forms.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Scrape into an 8 by 8 metal pan and spread out over the bottom.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Bake for 15 minutes and remove to cool.</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="recipe-section method brown-text-nh">
<div class="section-title">
For the filling</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="text">
Soften cream cheese and melt butter in microwave.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Grind natural sweetener blend in coffee grinder or magic bullet.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Beat cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth and without lumps.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Add eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, and beat until incorporated.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Next, add natural sweetener blend, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and mix just until smooth.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Rap the pan down on counter top a couple times to get out air bubbles.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="text">
Pour
pumpkin mixture over crust and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until center
jiggles a bit when you move the pan. It will set up and sink down upon
cooling overnight in the refrigerator.</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*<i><b>~*~*~*~* </b></i></span></span></span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Some interesting things I read this past month:</span></b></i><br />
<a href="http://creativesavingsblog.com/money-saving-tips/stop-going-over-budget/" target="_blank">How Not to Go over Budget</a><br />
<a href="http://str.typepad.com/weblog/2016/09/how-can-i-know-which-bible-promises-apply-to-me.html" target="_blank">How Can I Know Which Bible Promises Belong to Me?</a><br />
<a href="http://www.housecleaningcentral.com/en/cleaning-tips/tip/" target="_blank">Housecleaning Central</a><br />
<a href="http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2013/12/uses-for-and-how-to-dry-orange-peel.html" target="_blank">Uses for oranges</a><br />
<a href="http://balconygardenweb.com/secrets-to-have-continuously-productive-vegetable-garden/?utm_content=buffera6fa0&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">Secrets to Continuously Productive Veggie garden</a> <br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=243&v=9MUnqIoehbc" target="_blank">Everyday Life Hacks</a><br />
<a href="http://www.littlethings.com/depression-era-recipes/?utm_source=budget&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=nostalgia" target="_blank">Depression Era Dishes </a><br />
<a href="http://www.hometalk.com/12804891/s-13-incredibly-useful-tension-rod-ideas-you-haven-t-seen-yet" target="_blank">13 Incredible Useful Tension Rod Ideas </a><br />
<a href="http://www.smallfootprintfamily.com/100-things-you-can-compost" target="_blank">100 Things You Can Compost</a><br />
<br />
Well, that's it for now! Thanks for stopping by, Ladies! I hope your holidays and homes are filled with a thankful and joyful heart because of what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. Bye for now!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">BLESSED TO BE HOME!<i><br />Georgene</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> </i></span> <br />
<br />
Above Scriptures are taken from the ESV Bible. <br />
A Woman that Fears the Lord <br />
http://awomanthatfearsthelord.com <br />
Copyright 2002. Rewritten in 2016. Georgene Girouard. You may copy and share this article in it’s entirety. <br />
<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-58300317804049852962016-08-28T16:24:00.002-07:002016-08-28T16:39:19.810-07:00TITUS TWO: Loving our husbands <br />
I've been studying 1 Peter this summer and what a delight to revisit some of the verses that meant so much to me as a young bride when my marriage was very tumultuous. I was recently captivated by a phrase found in 1 Peter 1:22 which says to <b><i>"love one another earnestly"</i></b>. The Greek word <i>earnestly</i> means to <i>stretch yourself to the limits</i>,without slack (taunt). I began to think how this verse could be obeyed in different relationships but the one I kept coming back to was my husband. Was I earnestly (stretching myself to the limit,without slacking up) for him? When was the last time I had really worn myself out to love him beyond the normal ways I daily care for him (laundry, meals, housekeeping and other wifely duties)?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8n9mA2isPEGdv9fQyEd1aIoGQpaX4CIsol5uOLgIdZgSkx8jCye61kwNqB9V6OeEfQUpkWThfGSmwS_47buXKfy3C3eezwp6wopd2RQ6TrRI2NeIM5-GWy8g1GSZ6eooLgNNf7G2M1s/s1600/20160817_151058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8n9mA2isPEGdv9fQyEd1aIoGQpaX4CIsol5uOLgIdZgSkx8jCye61kwNqB9V6OeEfQUpkWThfGSmwS_47buXKfy3C3eezwp6wopd2RQ6TrRI2NeIM5-GWy8g1GSZ6eooLgNNf7G2M1s/s320/20160817_151058.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I find it's easy to get caught up in caring for his needs and home, extended family and ministry opportunities to where the <i>stretching myself to the limits </i>for my husband become less of a priority. Now, if you asked my husband (and I have) if he feels like he is getting my leftovers or that he is less important than others then he would say, 'no'. But, in my heart I was convicted when I read this verse and I know it's because I let myself get so busy that I don't <i>stretch myself to the limits</i> to love and serve him the way I did when I was younger. I'm one tired puppy most days but that is still no excuse because my schedule can be rearranged to put him in a higher place of importance. I'm also learning that there are many ways to <i>stretch myself to the limit</i> for him that don't need physical strength.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">~</span></b> Submitting to him. Submission is definitely a way to<i> stretch myself to the limit.</i> <br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">~</span></b> I am practicing to think of his plans as more important than my own. To set aside what I am doing to help him <i>when</i> he wants to do it and not when it's convenient for me. (Phil. 2:3-4)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>~</b></span> To stop what I am doing when he is talking...turning to look him in his eyes...to really listen to what he is saying. Being present. <br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">~</span></b> Schedule at the beginning of the week ways to minister to him so he doesn't get my leftover time and strength. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqYFSzpr40vaFIG-BR0Y_b-kmCG9C9rVpUNxLTexPHKuoi03HDfLBYNat6gQRUrinTmkDQvoJLM4gm1ioNj3VejjKXoNZD8SflDZEVW0gGgCP469gx3TQb9YBrgLzyqK-Y0MgUFg4WlY/s1600/12656041_895264360594717_506993084_ocodyband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqYFSzpr40vaFIG-BR0Y_b-kmCG9C9rVpUNxLTexPHKuoi03HDfLBYNat6gQRUrinTmkDQvoJLM4gm1ioNj3VejjKXoNZD8SflDZEVW0gGgCP469gx3TQb9YBrgLzyqK-Y0MgUFg4WlY/s320/12656041_895264360594717_506993084_ocodyband.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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I try hard to not <i>overschedule </i>my week otherwise I lack the strength to love my man beyond the daily round of caring for his physical needs<i>. </i>My habit tends to be that I will schedule just the amount that I think I can physically handle but sure enough 1 or 2 other things pop up and then I am back in survival mode. I am trying to change this pattern by underscheduling (I know that is not a word but it fits) my week! Please pray for me because I need to grow in this area! <br />
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So, that is what has been rolling around in this old brain lately. How can I obey this scripture by <i>stretching myself to the limit</i> in the way I love my husband? What actions and words speak to his heart and let him know that he is the most important person in my world? Most wives know what makes their husband happy and I am no exception. If you don't know then just listen to his complaints and find a way to eliminate them. <br />
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The wonderful thing is... I am being blessed <i>in the stretching </i>and it's drawing us closer together as I think of ways to bless him.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~</span></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2016/07/want-organized-home-10-minutes-day.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ImAnOrganizingJunkie+%28I%27m+an+organizing+junkie%21%29" target="_blank">Want an organized home in 10 minutes a day?</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~</span></b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kyeEMugIt5Vw6zzIbvEfCkA3H8sOUYAbCHtk_91lWZznUcwIHT1C52jmgHVN9S1tBKq_TccGqv4joqJuvTQgosVnY2eMoGWDPLl1Lb4lo6WppsbX-vz9K5cXF3-Md5j7KstoIaPk1PA/s1600/20160804_120548_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kyeEMugIt5Vw6zzIbvEfCkA3H8sOUYAbCHtk_91lWZznUcwIHT1C52jmgHVN9S1tBKq_TccGqv4joqJuvTQgosVnY2eMoGWDPLl1Lb4lo6WppsbX-vz9K5cXF3-Md5j7KstoIaPk1PA/s320/20160804_120548_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These were the best melons from our garden EVER!</td></tr>
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<br />
What a busy summer! I always declare that the current summer is busier than the last but I think I'm just getting older and so everything seems busier! <i>*smile* </i><br />
<br />
1. I tried a new vegetable this year called Dino Kale. It's a low oxalate kale (lower chance of forming kidney stones). It grew fast and easy but there was no way we could eat all that it produced so I dried it in my food dehydrators. The nice thing about kale is that it dries quickly. I put the dried kale in freezer bags and into the pantry it went. I'll use it in soups, smoothies or frittatas this winter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvBcx3saNskb4w4HpZsvsUyQeHIB_00xcG4fmLrGUFsrulENvWjqfdsXLBpCERqrIJMs7nYxf5Rp0KzE3t4FMbnQL7eQSywxhhOes3GdT2qIla16K6i4sCVg6D4yfq_h05lXo_PNCSjU/s1600/20160804_111715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvBcx3saNskb4w4HpZsvsUyQeHIB_00xcG4fmLrGUFsrulENvWjqfdsXLBpCERqrIJMs7nYxf5Rp0KzE3t4FMbnQL7eQSywxhhOes3GdT2qIla16K6i4sCVg6D4yfq_h05lXo_PNCSjU/s320/20160804_111715.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dino Kale</td></tr>
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2. I've been using a tall glass apothecary container to hold our Q Tips. It was difficult to get the swabs out of the bottom of the jar so I was going to buy a new container. Instead, I started thinking about what I had on hand and it dawned on me that a small canning jar might fit the bill! It's the perfect size and I already had it on hand. <br />
<br />
3. I'm still on a mission to figure out how to stay within budget on my 5 week pay periods. This is what has been helping:<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I stock up on monthly essentials during the previous months. These are items I buy every month. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I don't shop the sales during that 5 week pay period unless it's an outrageous deal. Last week I found walnuts at .99 for an 8 ounce bag. I grabbed all 10 of the ones on sale and threw them in the freezer. That was a deal I couldn't pass up. But, normally I don't buy extras for those 5 weeks. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I don't 'recreational shop' which means that when I go to Walmart I first PRAY when I enter the front door and then I TRY not to look to the 'left or the right' but I just keep focused on my list of essentials. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I wait as long as I can before I go to the store. I try to stock up on vegetables and fruit so that way I only have to go every other week...hopefully! </li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSW7Kzx95eOKfzRM4Aav9aM09avyRqpgqyoLCR7SkuuXwbZeAJlbYwbFV7L6QB63XCkoK8Zszmrc_KKuQMoOghVQSe5CGHBwe1YT_4pffgN80OKTawAlujYN0OjZk7CsVx_3ZydbnHkM/s1600/20160811_125543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSW7Kzx95eOKfzRM4Aav9aM09avyRqpgqyoLCR7SkuuXwbZeAJlbYwbFV7L6QB63XCkoK8Zszmrc_KKuQMoOghVQSe5CGHBwe1YT_4pffgN80OKTawAlujYN0OjZk7CsVx_3ZydbnHkM/s320/20160811_125543.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A summer visit with two friends. We were homeschool moms together. </td></tr>
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4. My (low oxalate) tomatoes produced a decent harvest this year. I don't have time to make my homemade Spicy Tomato Sauce until this winter so I blanched the tomatoes and froze them. The tomatoes trickled in, with a few here and there, so I put a small saucepan of water on to boil while I was making dinner and dropped in the few I had collected that morning. Once the skins 'crack' then I would let them cool in the strainer and take the seeds out before I froze them. Easy peasy! <br />
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5. We have been buying soaker hoses to eliminate hand watering in our flower and vegetable garden. There were still parts of the garden that required hand watering so I started thinking about how I could make my life easier. I bought a few more soaker hoses and a 4 port faucet. Now I just have to flip a switch each time I want to change the water to a different area. No more hand watering except for 2 areas in my yard (I'm still trying to figure out how to eliminate those). Sometimes you have to spend money to make your life a little easier so you can save your energy for the most important things in life (like <i>stretching yourself to the limit</i> in loving others). <br />
<br />
6. I bought some new curtains for my kitchen. I saved the nice, heavy plastic packaging (with a zipper) for organizing miscellaneous items in my drawers. I was going to give the curtains to the thrift stores when it dawned on me that the curtains in the garage are sun faded. You don't have to look far to find a way to reuse most items. <br />
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7. My mornings are so busy that oftentimes I don't get to the laundry until after lunchtime. This can cause a problem of clothes not drying before nighttime since I hang my clothes on the line. Thankfully, I have a couple of clothes lines strung in my garage so if I hang a load of laundry late in the afternoon it's dry by the next morning. This doesn't work as well in the winter or cooler months. My electric bill can jump $30 in a month if I use my dryer regularly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQ2POr3bc2-u7-UgWtWRie6dOI74YPUHnwgCZMANyD3f2RL0WUPHZGq653YkIBBRnJnb8CeV1nWRNhAOGnosp4C-kE4ZfweFxhR8F62r40eoarwTqYNQFxa2BmKw1lMUxJDIBEAteKIg/s1600/20160728_151113_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQ2POr3bc2-u7-UgWtWRie6dOI74YPUHnwgCZMANyD3f2RL0WUPHZGq653YkIBBRnJnb8CeV1nWRNhAOGnosp4C-kE4ZfweFxhR8F62r40eoarwTqYNQFxa2BmKw1lMUxJDIBEAteKIg/s320/20160728_151113_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing UPWORDS with the grands!</td></tr>
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8. We use Magic Jack for our home phone. It has it's quirks which can be frustrating but you can't beat the price. I've never broken down the yearly fee into monthly installments until recently. Now I won't be hunting for a way to come up with the yearly fee. I use Quick Books for my accounting program so I can 'hide' the monthly amount in the register until I'm ready to pay the yearly bill. <br />
<br />
9. I buy Truvia at Costco so of course it comes in a large box. When it was empty I cut the top off and used the box to hold plastic bags in one of my drawers. It makes the drawer look neater. I never throw away a small sturdy box. I keep a larger box in the garage that I store them in. I also saved a small square, plastic mushroom container to use in one of my drawers. <br />
<br />
10. I needed to update the color of the toilet paper holder. I found a dark brown spray paint (it was called a metallic) to spray paint it. It looks brand new. I also sprayed a little step stool to match the new colors in my kitchen.<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>*~*~*~*~*~*~</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Saved, Reused and Re-purposed~*~*~*~*~*~*~</b></span><br />
<br />
- I cut up old underwear to use for rags.<br />
- Scraps of melon rinds, egg shells, coffee grounds, vegetable and fruit peels, shredded paper, dryer lint, vacuum cleaner dirt,etc. were buried in my vegetable beds to build up the soil. <br />
- Tinfoil (washed and reused to cover drip pans under stove burners) or to cover leftovers. <br />
- Plastic storage bags (washed and dried): reused<br />
- Grass clippings are put in a separate bin in the yard (the frame from an old dresser) to use for 'lasagna composting'.<br />
- Newspapers: Lasagna composting, painting, etc. <br />
- Broccoli salad bag, broccoli bag and other vegetable bags washed out to reuse<br />
- Cardboard boxes were flattened and laid down in the garden as a barrier to kill weeds. I put newspapers down first, then the cardboard boxes and then grass clippings on top.<br />
- Heavy string from the dry cat food bag that you pull to open the bag: Used to tie up flower in the yard.<br />
- Cat food bag, plastic based: I use these in my city garbage can for items that are too big for the indoor garbage can or maybe have too much liquid.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span> </b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKWYm9e0pr2rSeGff8DZ4SwKBzc_FTRH43CP_VJwGR-Pmu2jQsixKGTSsTzFSJQ2AmZUJPcCb4rNJIzTp_GfiBahkw5nQ8ZawzSbo39CeLcV47jY85gFdYtU21Rtb2Y1yJ8m4K-Uge2M/s1600/20160804_112842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKWYm9e0pr2rSeGff8DZ4SwKBzc_FTRH43CP_VJwGR-Pmu2jQsixKGTSsTzFSJQ2AmZUJPcCb4rNJIzTp_GfiBahkw5nQ8ZawzSbo39CeLcV47jY85gFdYtU21Rtb2Y1yJ8m4K-Uge2M/s320/20160804_112842.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice harvest of butternut squash and a few Granny Smith apples </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> *~*~*~</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>*~*~*~*~*~*~Some fun reading~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</b> </span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cowcountryhousewife.com/surviving-on-17000-a-year/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">How Does a Family of Four Survive on $17,000 a year?</span></span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://ifyoudostuff.blogspot.com/2016/08/a-dust-ruffle-for-full-size-bed-in-our.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FzHlEu+%28if+you+do+stuff%2C+stuff+gets+done%29" target="_blank">How to Make a Dust Ruffle </a> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2016/08/low-carb-recipe-love-on-fridays-8-26-16.html" target="_blank">Low Carb Recipe Love on Fridays</a> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://wayback.archive.org/web/*/http://lainesletters.com/inmyhome/*" target="_blank">Laine's Letters Archive</a> </span></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~RECIPES*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b>
<span style="font-size: large;">A new recipe we liked: </span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Chili</span></b><br />
2 pounds of ground beef (I used 1 pound of lean ground beef)<br />
1/2 onion, chopped<br />
1 tsp. ground black pepper<br />
1/2 tsp. garlic salt<br />
2 to 2 1/2 cups tomato sauce<br />
1 (8 oz.) jar salsa<br />
2-4 tablespoons chili seasoning mix (see recipe below)<br />
I used: 1 cup black beans or kidney beans to keep it lower carb<br />
...but the original recipes calls for: <br />
1 (15 ounce) can light kidney beans<br />
1 (15 ounce) can dark kidney beans<br />
<br />
Fry ground beef and onion in a large pot until the beef is browned. Drain grease. Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for at least an hour. I kept adding a little bit of water to make sure it didn't burn.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chili Seasoning Mix 11</b></span><br />
Taken from<a href="http://allrecipes.com/" target="_blank"> allrecipes.com</a><br />
Recipe by Sal<br />
<br />
1 Tbsp. dried minced onion<br />
1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper<br />
1 Tbsp. dried, minced garlic<br />
2 tsp. white sugar (I used Truvia)<br />
2 tsp. ground cumin<br />
2 tsp. dried parsley<br />
2 tsp. salt<br />
1 tsp. dried basil<br />
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper<br />
1/4 c. flour (omit for low carb)<br />
4 tsp. chili powder<b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>*~*~*~</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Low Carb Pizza </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This cheese dough crust is the best I've tried so far and it's much easier than the cauliflower pizza crust. I had to use dairy free cream cheese and Monterey Jack cheese which makes a difference in the taste. But, I'll be making this again. Use your favorite pizza/or marinara sauce and toppings and bake until the cheese is melted. </span><b><br /></b></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></b><br />
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
3 tbsp cream cheese
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 large egg
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
3/4 cup almond flour
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 tsp garlic powder
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 tsp onion powder
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 tsp Italian seasoning
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1 tsp sea salt
</li>
<li class="ingredient " itemprop="recipeIngredient">
1/2 tsp black peppe<span style="font-size: small;">r</span>
</li>
</ul>
<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list">
<li class="instruction " itemprop="recipeInstructions">
Preheat oven to 425°
</li>
<li class="instruction " itemprop="recipeInstructions">
In a large microwave safe mixing bowl, combine mozzarella and
cream cheese. Microwave for 1 minute. Remove from microwave and stir to
combine. Return to microwave for 1 additional minute.
</li>
<li class="instruction " itemprop="recipeInstructions">
To the mixing bowl, add egg, almond flour, garlic powder,
onion powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt and black pepper. Mix until
all ingredients are well incorporated. (It will be stiff and hard to
mix)
</li>
<li class="instruction " itemprop="recipeInstructions">
Line a 12 inch pizza pan with parchment paper. Spread the
"dough" into a thin but even layer, covering the pizza pan. If the dough
gets too stringy and unworkable, simply put it back in the microwave
for 1 minute to soften.
</li>
<li class="instruction " itemprop="recipeInstructions">
Bake on the middle rack for 10-12 minutes or until golden
brown. Watch it to make sure that it does not bubble up. Use a toothpick
to pop any bubbles, if necessary.Add your favotire toppings and bake another 10 minutes or until cheese melts. </li>
</ol>
<br />
Thank you to my friend Esther who told me about this link with a lot more Cheese Dough recipes. <br />
<a href="http://healthylivinginbodyandmind.com/24-fathead-cheese-dough-recipes-low-carb-gluten-free/?utm_campaign=shareaholic&utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=socialnetwork" target="_blank">Cheese Dough Recipes</a><br />
<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkWQQrGxdoWbdKFd605fqNNdlrDsK7hGdIJWoJoz1vw9G9aa7vFs7-eWaVArY1K8y_33Tr8mCmiGh_5yWCGAQkaW2I_j_DegOc7uCUWJAqrr8wS08L_sZYeIlMvQhIka0uL9dFH5D6R8/s1600/20160804_111414_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkWQQrGxdoWbdKFd605fqNNdlrDsK7hGdIJWoJoz1vw9G9aa7vFs7-eWaVArY1K8y_33Tr8mCmiGh_5yWCGAQkaW2I_j_DegOc7uCUWJAqrr8wS08L_sZYeIlMvQhIka0uL9dFH5D6R8/s320/20160804_111414_HDR.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big, beautiful tomato vines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<u></u>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">What I'm reading this month:</span></b><br />
<br />
<b>~ <i>When Forgiveness Doesn't Make Sense by Robert Jeffress.</i></b> I am going through this book a second time to pull out the main points. This will be a book that I will keep in my library to use as a reference. The author establishes what the bible teaches about forgiveness and the barriers to forgiveness and how to overcome them.<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=geosblo0f-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B005IURPC8&asins=B005IURPC8&linkId=e4d4977bcb164903c5131fbc860da92a&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=false&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;">
</iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Well, that it's for this month! I hope you ladies have enjoyed your summer! Fall is just around the corner with all the wonderfulness of holiday gatherings and warm cozy evenings and pumpkin and... so much more! God is so good to give us different seasons to enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Blessed to be home!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Georgene</i></span>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-74299268711219486222016-07-10T16:50:00.004-07:002016-07-10T16:57:25.846-07:00Titus Two Hospitality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> Practice hospitality! <span style="font-size: small;">Romans 12:13</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Don't you enjoy visiting a home where the friendly soul throws open the door and invites you in with no hesitation? They don't care what they look like or the state of their home because their focus is on you! Their work is set aside and they begin to minister to your needs! They may ask questions like.."how are you feeling?" and "how is the family?" They may put on a kettle of water and pull out their special tea cups as they arrange a few treats on a small plate. The world has stopped and time slows down for the next half hour as they <i>practice hospitality</i>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73OEj4LOLYKDmqLqDVO-gXhdQ1cLSSQrRRxbtWeo4H_2LwpRwOGa23dTFajuFeV3M-rTJJhSX3L13bireN_BSnHL5NHzEqAct7brTnPl6OhPIDGDHpyTO1P8MLQEmOPECbahWYLKXRzo/s1600/20160329_100718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73OEj4LOLYKDmqLqDVO-gXhdQ1cLSSQrRRxbtWeo4H_2LwpRwOGa23dTFajuFeV3M-rTJJhSX3L13bireN_BSnHL5NHzEqAct7brTnPl6OhPIDGDHpyTO1P8MLQEmOPECbahWYLKXRzo/s320/20160329_100718.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The word<i> PRACTICE</i> means to <i>aggressively chase like a hunter pursuing a prize </i>and <i>HOSPITALITY </i>actually means to be <i>friendly to a stranger</i>. I have entertained a handful of strangers in my home over the years but mostly the ones who cross my threshold are those I am acquainted with and love. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Biblical hospitality includes inviting in other believers as well! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.</span></i> 1 Peter 4:9 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">My mom once said that she prepares her home in the morning as if she were expecting company. I like that idea because it sets a precedent for the day. It shows that I am determining early on in the day that I am ready to obey God's command to <i>practice hospitality</i>. But, I'll be very transparent with you that even with this mindset you'll rarely find my home <i>picture perfect.</i> There is a whole lot of living going on between these walls</span><span style="font-size: small;"> and if I wait for a perfect home...or a day with nothing on my 'to do list'...then I will never <i>practice hospitality</i>. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJL5_iiFJSOTtrmSzKKnkZ4jvXYSD-t5qAC1-Ai8H6jLy9jXaMBahG01u4KXiiHu3k8pzRKLZ4RSYNKVysK1JKVMwgHpCuPyLRFPV0JJAgP5pKd4OOTkfjU6EUYY60Ven1eXsyU1aL-ns/s1600/20160703_123938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJL5_iiFJSOTtrmSzKKnkZ4jvXYSD-t5qAC1-Ai8H6jLy9jXaMBahG01u4KXiiHu3k8pzRKLZ4RSYNKVysK1JKVMwgHpCuPyLRFPV0JJAgP5pKd4OOTkfjU6EUYY60Ven1eXsyU1aL-ns/s320/20160703_123938.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sweet mama always insists I have a cake for my birthday (sugar free, of course!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">I have a choice when unplanned guests knock on my door and all is not perfect on the other side. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">- I can hide in the bedroom (I did this as a young bride). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">- I can invite them in and continually apologize for the state of my home/self which might make them uncomfortable and keeps the focus on myself (I can't count how many times I've done this over the years). </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Or</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">- I can set my pride and reputation aside, throw open the door and at the same time open my heart to welcome them as I would welcome Jesus! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">"Heavenly Father, please give me YOUR grace to practice hospitality in a way that will bring glory to you!" </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></span> </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvZe7tLVV6Y74TyvtpjFHbvl7nhd2XU1b-vKcwj9H-GQtgDJ8JxB82sRgJ9N1QgbE5HqerDGLk62jIh_uUzu_pumEhtvalV-fLBB7UkgdkE-1cod7BVb3BzZx83h9WF4lZc1yjAqKI1xE/s1600/20160621_081635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvZe7tLVV6Y74TyvtpjFHbvl7nhd2XU1b-vKcwj9H-GQtgDJ8JxB82sRgJ9N1QgbE5HqerDGLk62jIh_uUzu_pumEhtvalV-fLBB7UkgdkE-1cod7BVb3BzZx83h9WF4lZc1yjAqKI1xE/s320/20160621_081635.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sea of melons! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="vote-buttons invisible"></span></span></h3>
"The reason this is no minor biblical theme is because the streams of
hospitality flow deeply from the well of God. Christians love the
stranger, because we have been loved by the Father when we ourselves
were strangers."<span style="font-size: small;"> John Piper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I enjoyed reading both of these resources on hospitality and thought you might enjoy them, too!</span>
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<a href="http://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionaries/bakers-evangelical-dictionary/hospitality.html" target="_blank">Hospitality by Baker's Evangelical Dictionary</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/hospitality-and-the-great-commission" target="_blank">Hospitality and the Great Commission</a><br />
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<br />
<span class="p"><span style="font-size: large;">"When there is vroom in your heart...then there is vroom in your home." </span> First we have Coffee by Margaret Jensen! (One of my favorite books!)</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDofbGutLomw4-W6A1je2PEssq4BoYG0ROWLMzKrYQADzZmSl2ScPpaMECKN1zr0JVitiar_n64kAb8LkH-ZPfW9FDheMbKqIdTy3SyDbZVB95R7cNisSVlL-SDFfyY5CYdrT8oIVUBOw/s1600/13521944_1253799891304469_1677272412123243807_ndebandme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDofbGutLomw4-W6A1je2PEssq4BoYG0ROWLMzKrYQADzZmSl2ScPpaMECKN1zr0JVitiar_n64kAb8LkH-ZPfW9FDheMbKqIdTy3SyDbZVB95R7cNisSVlL-SDFfyY5CYdrT8oIVUBOw/s320/13521944_1253799891304469_1677272412123243807_ndebandme.jpg" width="259" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friends are a special gift from God!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="p"> ~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~</span> <br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">The summer months always prove to be a busy time of year for our household. The family birthdays start in March and go strong throughout the rest of the year along with graduations and some construction work needing to be done in our home. All of this activity has kept this old woman busier than she is used to! *wink* It's a blessing to have a full life!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"> Here are a few other things going on in our home...</span> <br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">1. I am moving a bit slower this year so the veggie plants went into the ground a bit later than usual! But, they are finally taking off and we are beginning to reap a small harvest. I planted several kinds of low oxalate tomatoes, Black Beauty squash, yellow squash, okra, cantaloupe, red bell peppers, watermelon, Dino kale (low oxalate), different varieties of hot peppers, butternut squash and cucumbers. We also reaped from previously planted artichoke plants, raspberries, strawberries, grapes and boysenberries. This was the first year we harvested white nectarines. Not a single apricot on our tree this year, though. I think it's getting too much water from the vegetable garden. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpaFeKZZ2d7qc9rY5zcQupR2vxwodX1T-S_B-CEZOZgQX7wLUXrZ-E6o7l937fZ5aKfEExPN09O30kIB9zlByI2XAfvm2EtukbtiO7oLRv7TwaKW4YVAUQC8Bgc5xMK4CEiwkaqaulbg/s1600/20160526_140115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpaFeKZZ2d7qc9rY5zcQupR2vxwodX1T-S_B-CEZOZgQX7wLUXrZ-E6o7l937fZ5aKfEExPN09O30kIB9zlByI2XAfvm2EtukbtiO7oLRv7TwaKW4YVAUQC8Bgc5xMK4CEiwkaqaulbg/s320/20160526_140115.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onions harvested from the winter garden. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="p"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<span class="p">2. Our bathroom and kitchen have some problems which needed repair. I started freezing leftovers about a month before the work began. It was so nice to have meals already in the freezer. Preparing ahead of time helped to resist the temptation to grab fast food every night. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">3. Another holding tank was added to catch rinse water from the washing machine. I've been using 1 holding tank for several years but it would only hold the water from one load of wash. I rarely do just 1 load of wash. I can now do several loads of laundry and use the grey water from both loads to water my plants. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7I2tkq9eiDnA6s_TkwoYgjAQrTCZJ67ElzTmSBdTj6KndzsXKfCVB-n9ZgADjbWdXbjbF0QrStEYmpkSLeDwDcfrMvGsIak9tZOO7zdsKxSIL1U6E_BA25BqD0PKEzA42pg8m1xxS_Uw/s1600/20160510_104232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7I2tkq9eiDnA6s_TkwoYgjAQrTCZJ67ElzTmSBdTj6KndzsXKfCVB-n9ZgADjbWdXbjbF0QrStEYmpkSLeDwDcfrMvGsIak9tZOO7zdsKxSIL1U6E_BA25BqD0PKEzA42pg8m1xxS_Uw/s320/20160510_104232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="p">4. I stopped by my local thrift store and found a nice blouse for church. I paid around $2 with my 25% off coupon. </span><span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p"> </span><br />
<span class="p">5. I am on a mission to downsize STUFF in my office. I don't find any measure of peace when I walk in that room because there is too much going on visually. Busy, busy! So, I went through my first bookshelf and gave away the second row of books on each shelf. I also went through all of my Bible notes and studies and threw out anything I haven't used since I moved here 4 years ago. It is already feeling less cluttered which makes my eyes very happy. *wink* </span><br />
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<span class="p">*~*~ *</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">This was a helpful link: </span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2016/03/5-things-people-with-tidy-homes-dont-do.html" target="_blank">5 Things People with Tidy Houses Don't Do!</a></span><br />
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<span class="p">*~*~* </span><br />
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<span class="p">6. My mother always taught my sister and I to not wear our good clothes/shoes for everyday. We were trained to change into our everyday clothes once we got home. I've carried that practice into adulthood and it sure helps my nice clothes last longer. The same goes with my shoes. I keep an old pair of shoes outside the back door to work in the yard. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">7. My face makeup was becoming difficult to get out of the bottle. I put it in the microwave for a few seconds and now it goes on easily. I was careful to let it cool slightly before I applied it. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelLumuDSR8v39UfXfihuwgGK6aBBHtEt67m98Ndw4AvHXpISUpUiDt_hrp8GgIH5tBEMgeTrw1ABkJP5S5Nfm1Zfu8UEELgUAj46ghU_wrhCqZEksFQnuSMHj1wQk8v_wLrSEuXe8pHo/s1600/20160503_083451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelLumuDSR8v39UfXfihuwgGK6aBBHtEt67m98Ndw4AvHXpISUpUiDt_hrp8GgIH5tBEMgeTrw1ABkJP5S5Nfm1Zfu8UEELgUAj46ghU_wrhCqZEksFQnuSMHj1wQk8v_wLrSEuXe8pHo/s320/20160503_083451.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made raisins out of last years grapes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="p">8. I bought a big jug of bubble bath from Walmart to refill my small liquid soap containers by the sink. It's much cheaper than buying new ones. I was buying a large container of liquid hand soap at the dollar store but it was so thin that it would squirt straight out of the container onto our clothes. This works much better. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">9. I normally use Seran wrap to roll out my pie crusts but I was out the other day so I cut open a new small kitchen garbage bag. It worked great! <i>Make do or do without</i> is a great motto to live by! </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<br />
<span class="p">10. I knew my husband would have a special birthday coming up this year so I started saving money last summer. I decided a head of time how much to spend on him and then divided it by 12 months. I took out the allotted amount each paycheck and set it aside. A year later we had just enough to purchase a nice gift for him. That would not have happened if I hadn't planned ahead or I may have been tempted to put something on a credit card which would have made life harder in the coming months. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.</i></b></span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Proverbs 13:1</span>1<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> ESV</span></i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxWTVua8JtjBUBI6BnC9GmZJ3Ahm5h5zHot9hbxb0twepvLDmB5M_x4M2XFhHJM6ZVo54oza6cCSW3jMNjI4cWTUo-1RDYKHfT1sCF7rCH2MqfJB5K5J3OZI368j5dOxfO2L-w0jEbdE/s1600/20160329_100718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxWTVua8JtjBUBI6BnC9GmZJ3Ahm5h5zHot9hbxb0twepvLDmB5M_x4M2XFhHJM6ZVo54oza6cCSW3jMNjI4cWTUo-1RDYKHfT1sCF7rCH2MqfJB5K5J3OZI368j5dOxfO2L-w0jEbdE/s320/20160329_100718.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="p">*~*~*</span><br />
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<span class="p"> A friend shared this website and I've enjoyed reading how she feeds her family of 5 on $100 a month. We don't eat the same foods but it's helping me to think differently when I am shopping. </span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefundamentalhome.com/" target="_blank"><span class="p">The Fundamental Home</span></a><span class="p"> </span><br />
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<span class="p">*~*~* </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">I made this cheesecake for my aunt's birthday. It looks very professional if you arrange the apples in a pretty pattern. I used dairy free cream cheese for my aunt because she cannot tolerate dairy (like me). </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpzGVeQ-EieKpY8AmjwGIo5J8KprbprJGr5r4mlfLIIre5jdpDzhuIXVN_tmxysv-WI4cFLP6YGfXOEfmsxUfyLESZsDVAR4yFJdyrxJrYe0LHrBfYvHhDFBMDRWAenLLgBd_jSih8HI/s1600/20160624_134903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpzGVeQ-EieKpY8AmjwGIo5J8KprbprJGr5r4mlfLIIre5jdpDzhuIXVN_tmxysv-WI4cFLP6YGfXOEfmsxUfyLESZsDVAR4yFJdyrxJrYe0LHrBfYvHhDFBMDRWAenLLgBd_jSih8HI/s320/20160624_134903.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="p"><br /></span></div>
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Low Carb Bavarian Apple Cheesecak</span><span style="font-size: large;">e</span></b></span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<b><span class="p" style="font-size: large;">Crust:</span></b><br />
<span class="p">2 1/2 cups Low Oxalate Flour Blend (recipe below)</span><br />
<span class="p">(Or you could use 2 cups nut flour and 1/2 cup coconut flour)</span><br />
<span class="p">1/8 tsp. salt</span><br />
<span class="p">1/2 tsp. baking soda</span><br />
<span class="p">1/2 tsp. baking powder</span><br />
<span class="p">1/4 tsp. stevia</span><br />
<span class="p">1/2 cup Erythritol (or favorite sweetener)</span><br />
<span class="p">1 egg, beaten</span><br />
<span class="p">1/4 cup sugar free honey</span><br />
<span class="p">1 tbsp. vanilla</span><br />
<span class="p">2 Tbsp. nut butter (optional)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span class="p" style="font-size: large;">Topping:</span></b><br />
<span class="p">2 cups granny smith apples, peeled and sliced (don't slice too think)</span><br />
<span class="p">1/3 cup erythritol (or favorite sweetener)</span><br />
<span class="p">1 tsp. cinnamon (I use cinnamon extract for lower oxalates)</span><br />
<span class="p">1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span class="p" style="font-size: large;">Filling:</span></b><br />
<span class="p">16 ounces cream cheese (I used dairy free), softened</span><br />
<span class="p">1/2 cup erythritol (or favorite sweetener)</span><br />
<span class="p">1/2 tsp. vanilla</span><br />
<span class="p">2 eggs</span><br />
<span class="p">Mix crust ingredients together and press into cheesecake pan or you can use a round cake pan. </span><br />
<span class="p">Bake 375 for 8 minutes</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">Place apple mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with foil and bake at 400 degrees 15 minutes. </span><span class="p"></span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">Meanwhile, in the previous bowl beat cream cheese, sweetener and 1/2 tsp. vanilla until fluffy. Add the eggs and beat on low speed until mixed. Pour into pan with the baked crust and then arrange warm apples on the top of cheesecake filling. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">Mix together </span><span class="p">sweetener and cinnamon together. Sprinkle on top of the apples. Place almonds in between apples (optional). Bake 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Chill before using. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">Makes 8-12 servings </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">Debbie's Low Oxalate Flour Blend</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">2 cups. pumpkin seed flour</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">1/4 cup coconut flour</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">1/4 cup ground flax seeds</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">1/4 cup oat fiber (not oat bran)</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">1/4 cup. psyllium husks, ground fine </span></span><br />
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<span class="p"><span class="p">*~*~*</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_vdquOHeutZ6ZafJxcGT0nV0EeZ8b6XPQhK1PlkNz3_vr0Wewl1DbsPRmKLia3gM0P61bVprbiTCWxqlSkMqyVbsvDdr33oQBYIcBjhjb30oVvP3A6U4iJPi8yKttaf5gdWKJEphJp0/s1600/13567423_10154297416573057_7546064210417127268_nLance2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_vdquOHeutZ6ZafJxcGT0nV0EeZ8b6XPQhK1PlkNz3_vr0Wewl1DbsPRmKLia3gM0P61bVprbiTCWxqlSkMqyVbsvDdr33oQBYIcBjhjb30oVvP3A6U4iJPi8yKttaf5gdWKJEphJp0/s320/13567423_10154297416573057_7546064210417127268_nLance2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday to our oldest son!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="p"><span class="p"> *~*~*~</span></span><br />
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<span class="p"><span class="p"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Broccoli Salad</span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
A friend gave me this recipe to make for our church tea many years ago. It's always a hit and requested at many family gatherings. I double it for large gatherings. (I will take out a small serving for myself and make the dressing with Erythritol/stevia instead of sugar since I am eating low carb).<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: small;">Ingredients:</span></u><br />
4-5 cups broccoli flowerettes (peeled, chopped stems are OK if small)<br />
(I use a large bag of fresh broccoli from Costco. I cut off the stem and only use the flowerettes) <br />
<br />
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries<br />
<br />
2 cups grated cheddar cheese (optional)<br />
<br />
1 lb. bacon, cooked until brown and crispy, then crumbled (or chopped)<br />
<br />
1 cup roasted salted sunflowers (I used a bit less. 1 cup seemed like too much)<br />
<br />
1 sm. red onion, chopped into very small pieces (or 1 sm. shallot, if preferred)<br />
(I used less than 1 small onion)<br />
<br />
1 cup real mayonnaise<br />
<br />
1/4 cup. sugar<br />
<br />
2 Tbsp. Apple Cider vinegar<br />
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<u><b>Directions: </b></u><br />
Salad: Wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized flowerettes. If using
the stem, peel it and chop in small bite-sized pieces. Drain and put in
large mixing bowl. Add raisins, bacon, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese,
and red onion. Mix well.<br />
Sauce: Mix sugar and mayonnaise. Add vinegar and stir until smooth. It should have a sweet and tangy flavor.<br />
Makes approx. 8 cups or 16 servings <br />
<br />
Pour sauce over salad ingredients and mix well. If you used salted
sunflower seeds, no additional salt is necessary. If using plain
sunflower seeds, adjust taste as necessary.<br />
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*~*~*<br />
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<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-clean-an-oven-cleaning-lessons-from-the-kitchn-201191" target="_blank">How to clean your stove</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXnhsDOrh7XvAagLLwF5Bv_XPLQRGlmckES0oq3K3ngQ5K-FFBVxoGLg2S71UQ1efGt_5OHj0bNw5g3BW5KwbX7-xTWbtL5lZ4yzSHxTITLOzB1IqHu62r77jeGZl1x2Jwxr9HjYubhc/s1600/20160516_220638_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXnhsDOrh7XvAagLLwF5Bv_XPLQRGlmckES0oq3K3ngQ5K-FFBVxoGLg2S71UQ1efGt_5OHj0bNw5g3BW5KwbX7-xTWbtL5lZ4yzSHxTITLOzB1IqHu62r77jeGZl1x2Jwxr9HjYubhc/s320/20160516_220638_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snoopy hopes if he stares at me long enough that I will feed him early! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="p"><span class="p"><b><span style="font-size: large;">SAVED, REUSED AND REPURPOSED</span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Paper towel roll (the cardboard in the middle)...(I wrap plastic bags or tinfoil around them to keep </span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p"> my drawer looking neat) (Or I use them to hold extension cords)</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Tinfoil (washed and reused to cover leftovers or line the drip pans under the stove burners)</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Bread wrapper (washed and reused instead of gallon size storage/freezer bags)</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Rubber bands from the newspaper </span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Plastic type dog food bag (I plan to use it for something messy that I put in the large garbage can that goes </span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p"> to the street. )</span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~Vegetable packaging for fresh and frozen (lettuce bags, broccoli, frozen stir fry veggies, radish bags,etc. </span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p"> Washed and reused in place of baggies. </span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p">~ Newspapers (I use these to layer (along with grass clippings) in my flower beds and anywhere I don't want weeds. </span></span><br />
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<span class="p"><span class="p">That's about it for now! I'd love to hear what you have been doing this summer. Have you found time to garden or do any canning? Are you doing a yummy bible study on your own? Did you go on vacation? What has God been teaching you lately? Write when you can! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="p"><span class="p">Blessed to be home!</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="p"><span class="p"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Georgene </i></span></span></span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p"> </span> </span><br />
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<span class="p"><br /></span> A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-75607536970013435322016-04-24T19:43:00.000-07:002016-04-24T19:56:02.621-07:00A Simple Life?<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> 'Living a simple life' is a hot topic among women in our culture who are looking for a way to lessen the stress of their days. I think we all know what is important in life and that is loving God and others. When life goes spiraling out of control and those priorities get pushed to a back burner then our conscience knows something needs to change. A simpler way of life can hold great appeal to a weary and stressed out woman.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjjq3TW0VGklvYEUYe9f2wZAS0y19wUnnRArRymSwwCyqg7LLkYfz4a3k2lx66Ye7_684z7tlR7IKGgJj5O8iNJ1o-yzoD1nwevs3wbDLcB0kQv3ZIDZFTjrC7ppJr2XWBNahr_a0l_E/s1600/2016-03-26+10.51.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjjq3TW0VGklvYEUYe9f2wZAS0y19wUnnRArRymSwwCyqg7LLkYfz4a3k2lx66Ye7_684z7tlR7IKGgJj5O8iNJ1o-yzoD1nwevs3wbDLcB0kQv3ZIDZFTjrC7ppJr2XWBNahr_a0l_E/s320/2016-03-26+10.51.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Coconut Cake for Easter<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Simplifying can also help those who deal with limited strength due to chronic illness. When we can't keep up then it's necessary to find ways to cut back on the non-essentials. This is my current motive for simplifying my days. The old grey mare she ain't what she used to be! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypzuTDfxn0_4k7MkV7AIXCY8kEGd8_ltTmHKk9rl8ccfYeLt5nwS0OV3rGK58EcniMS31X5QOvFhyJc5HEl4a2qGtwVICtnQErRn9MvbBoEiH5j1j3al2k4xuBxHIBV76ytEi7YRHobE/s1600/images1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypzuTDfxn0_4k7MkV7AIXCY8kEGd8_ltTmHKk9rl8ccfYeLt5nwS0OV3rGK58EcniMS31X5QOvFhyJc5HEl4a2qGtwVICtnQErRn9MvbBoEiH5j1j3al2k4xuBxHIBV76ytEi7YRHobE/s1600/images1.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A dear friend recommended I make a list of my primary <i>daily responsibilities </i>and then another list of <i>occasional responsibilities </i>(grands spending the night, taking mom to a doctor visit, etc.) and a final list of <i>want to's</i>. I took these lists and then ran it through the grid of Scriptures in my heart to see if my priorities matched God's priorities. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCKSzmjA58gAmsEG8gZmiJYzECJ0ik4wQKw3nXwwf2zCNQ8wYOI4EzeLdKmL7zOciE7JJHH8DN8AAvWuuhpNAWg954db0T39EQcUw7EZu673coLPMcVFVmlY1W-XIvUxZzzLRE1c-3Xg/s1600/20160326_111814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCKSzmjA58gAmsEG8gZmiJYzECJ0ik4wQKw3nXwwf2zCNQ8wYOI4EzeLdKmL7zOciE7JJHH8DN8AAvWuuhpNAWg954db0T39EQcUw7EZu673coLPMcVFVmlY1W-XIvUxZzzLRE1c-3Xg/s320/20160326_111814.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had our first artichoke for dinner</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll give you an example. I am an older woman so the Scripture below is a direct command to me (it's also for younger women, too). I looked at my <i>daily </i>and<i> occasional responsibilities</i> and asked if these priorities were listed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Older women</i> likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">teach what is good</span>, and so</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">train the young women</span> to</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-<span style="color: red;"> love their husbands</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">and children</span>,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- to be <span style="color: red;">self-controlled, pure</span>,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">working at home</span>,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">kind</span>, and</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- <span style="color: red;">submissive to their own husbands</span>,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">that the word of God may not be reviled. Titus 2:3</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABOQT8mLy03wxAYoXihC2nJXT854r452v8QMZy6TVkMpJfxEMRmz73XVQP06tLjKyqne7EbiqoMpoTL2PqeP_WOinouvVbnKVTJx_UnB-2W27VtEFwOv8JEcfEOfX2qmzgvgCAg2TV9c/s1600/20160327_134832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABOQT8mLy03wxAYoXihC2nJXT854r452v8QMZy6TVkMpJfxEMRmz73XVQP06tLjKyqne7EbiqoMpoTL2PqeP_WOinouvVbnKVTJx_UnB-2W27VtEFwOv8JEcfEOfX2qmzgvgCAg2TV9c/s320/20160327_134832.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You're never too old to hunt for eggs!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I look back over last week I began asking myself, "Was my schedule so crammed with my own agenda that it hindered me from teaching these things to younger women...<i>if they asked</i>? (And if I am to teach these things to younger women then I must ask if I am obeying these commands personally). Am I loving (phileo means affection) my husband? Am I practicing self-control (in the way I order my days,etc.) </span><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How can I change my priorities to obey God's Word? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He will ALWAYS give us enough time to do His will. I've already found some non-essentials that I have set aside so I can use my strength for the essentials. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ordering my daily schedule around God's commands is the greatest simplifier I know! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUzZeHixBU2uG-Wqag3n1kCvhsfzB6otg792xh-ypkY9SB5PvmyndxfxQzIEim0qzpP-KVm2PUja-5elhOgcyjN4hLBvXKaOv73xeScDp3NqfvS9UPVDgHb7Z-yRBZmHL6lhi74MceNs/s1600/20160331_133744_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUzZeHixBU2uG-Wqag3n1kCvhsfzB6otg792xh-ypkY9SB5PvmyndxfxQzIEim0qzpP-KVm2PUja-5elhOgcyjN4hLBvXKaOv73xeScDp3NqfvS9UPVDgHb7Z-yRBZmHL6lhi74MceNs/s320/20160331_133744_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely flowers from a sweet friend to brighten my day!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~*~*~* </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just a few things to write about this past month...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. I love <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/" target="_blank">THE KITCHN</a>! If you enjoy working in your kitchen (or WANT to enjoy it) then you might like this website. It's a great resource and I have learned quite a few new things. I like to find ways to be encouraged in the kitchen because it's so easy to get in a rut.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohyphenhyphenfyegnULyq7WCRZfn08T8kQ3mwJA0iK3kmN6tWrKeRw_sfmh6ppSfKlNMlDCUw7bL7-r9sziwhuDjcJlKctL7foftU2zeGC9riNhySP958gum6-tIvb_Hyh5pKcWsADlRd-C9mWw5A/s1600/20160329_100718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohyphenhyphenfyegnULyq7WCRZfn08T8kQ3mwJA0iK3kmN6tWrKeRw_sfmh6ppSfKlNMlDCUw7bL7-r9sziwhuDjcJlKctL7foftU2zeGC9riNhySP958gum6-tIvb_Hyh5pKcWsADlRd-C9mWw5A/s320/20160329_100718.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. I try to frequent our local thrift stores because I have found out that they rarely have what I need at the last minute. I keep an ongoing list in my purse which includes every day tops for myself and shirts for my husband. I always check the book section for gifts (I found 2 brand new FOOD NETWORK cookbooks last year that I gave for gifts). I browse games for the grands, small appliances and greeting cards and dishes. This past month I found 3 nice blouses and only paid $8.00. A 25% off coupon comes in our local paper so I cut it out and immediately put it in my purse. I also keep other coupons in the car. I have greater success of using them if I see them in the car while I am shopping. The Goodwill store sends out reminders when they have $1 sales. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Our city is on a watering schedule because of the drought. Our public works department gives away a bag full of water conserving items such an hand held spray nozzle to wash the car, low flow shower heads and a faucet attachment that goes on the kitchen or bath faucet to slow water usage! All free! The kitchen sink faucet thingie has a lever to flip that slows down the water so you don't have to turn off your water completely. There were also some pencils, pens and paper tablets. You might want to check and see if your city has similar offers. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhkDb0gQQUgHMbdHqpzuGDQIcdowz1Y8neGCXyXy096AoqlIdzk08bRdDI5B2bJUlgzcYBoOafqa0YecGuOlWNFmbxAil0VJ4KKxvRFdC0HRdc6ZXMtx42fmgeApVP2wSPLbciUE6eXA/s1600/20160402_184253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhkDb0gQQUgHMbdHqpzuGDQIcdowz1Y8neGCXyXy096AoqlIdzk08bRdDI5B2bJUlgzcYBoOafqa0YecGuOlWNFmbxAil0VJ4KKxvRFdC0HRdc6ZXMtx42fmgeApVP2wSPLbciUE6eXA/s320/20160402_184253.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My grandson just couldn't wait to swim in APRIL! LOL!!! Poor baby!</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. I've shared how I save my used tinfoil but sometimes it's not in the greatest shape. I decided to use the tinfoil to line the drip plate that fits under the stove burner instead of using a new piece of foil. Hard as I try I can never keep those pans looking brand new.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. I have gone back to checking the library first before I order a book through Amazon. I saved $20 by checking out a desired book through my library. I was glad I did because it wasn't a book I would have wanted to save for my personal library.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXPt43e19sQ9Ej96pJcpCow5mNdVZ_Yyxngp0NG3lAa7qicDarShp-OWbQnxNB4120ty7TQlARz43tmeLAoNkrCRoLrjXoV4pr5_FMVo3AuPfcHxYf5e2IvuSgnB4tAnYG7CS8mdlYos/s1600/20160326_111701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXPt43e19sQ9Ej96pJcpCow5mNdVZ_Yyxngp0NG3lAa7qicDarShp-OWbQnxNB4120ty7TQlARz43tmeLAoNkrCRoLrjXoV4pr5_FMVo3AuPfcHxYf5e2IvuSgnB4tAnYG7CS8mdlYos/s320/20160326_111701.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A couple new varieties of tomatoes</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. I cooked my turkey the day before Easter since I was baking a ham on Easter morning. I used this tutorial to carve and reheat it! I sure wish I had seen this years ago.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Make_Ahead_Turkey" target="_blank">Make Ahead Turkey</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Spring has sprung in my neck of the woods. I have small flowers popping up all over my yard. I had some sweet violets in a vegetable bed so I transplanted them to the front yard. It didn't cost me a thing except a little time and it's brought joy being able to see them thriving in a new spot. Spring is the perfect time of the year to check with neighbors and friends to see if they have seedlings or cuttings they plan on throwing away. It's free and if your friends are like me they would rather pass the plants on than throw them in the garbage.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDgB2N-nWYGDiwhz4F-_JQKol50IomwCUkP7Pa7scqT_eKTrZkjhoC2qyDVtclxbVSYWp5U-0r1AFTwjOd92tNFLWhhrNNMhSxxcb6zYW28bolDuob8WF_vGGLWXgSlaXnrEmThEIU-s/s1600/20160326_111831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDgB2N-nWYGDiwhz4F-_JQKol50IomwCUkP7Pa7scqT_eKTrZkjhoC2qyDVtclxbVSYWp5U-0r1AFTwjOd92tNFLWhhrNNMhSxxcb6zYW28bolDuob8WF_vGGLWXgSlaXnrEmThEIU-s/s320/20160326_111831.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My lilac bushes were so pretty this year!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Did you know that a fertilized lawn needs less water? I always dread spending the money on fertilizer for our lawns but my husband likes a green lawn. I felt better when a clerk at Home Depot told me that a healthy fertilized lawn uses less water.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. I throw the change from my purse into a glass jar. Last summer I let my granddaughters use it to go thrift store shopping. A few weeks ago the grands used it to play games at Bass Pro. This is a great way to do something extra without it taxing my pocketbook. One time our saved change added up to $500. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. My grandchildren love ice cream Blizzards and sundaes but it's hard on my budget at $3 and $4 a pop. So, we made our own. I bought the ice cream on sale and their favorite candy bar. We refrigerated the candy bars and then cut them in pieces and folded them into the ice cream. They loved it and it was a fraction of the cost.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~*~* </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">You will still be eating last years harvest when you will have to move it out to make room for the new.</span></i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Lev. 26:10 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">NIV</span></span></i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*~*~*~*~*</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65jhSY3ZJ9XKNO8vpoReb9xiji3CVkVtRXRIgPgAKA2rX9zEWxlWzcjRrtV4pOlrYGDOD1QOCAcheqiw_wO5F5jAUNzSzxtayrGRLE8zH6BHFjDBdPuISlE6mPRuwPsQouQgsAnpvTIk/s1600/20160319_171313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65jhSY3ZJ9XKNO8vpoReb9xiji3CVkVtRXRIgPgAKA2rX9zEWxlWzcjRrtV4pOlrYGDOD1QOCAcheqiw_wO5F5jAUNzSzxtayrGRLE8zH6BHFjDBdPuISlE6mPRuwPsQouQgsAnpvTIk/s320/20160319_171313.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our berry bushes are loaded with blossoms</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SAVED, REUSED AND REPURPOSED</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Bread wrappers (washed and reused)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Paper Towel cardboard tube (reused to wrap plastic bags around)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Rubber bands (from newspapers)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Newspapers (layered in vegetable garden for composting)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Black plastic tray from frozen meal (drawer organizer)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Paper bag from grocery store (reused to ripen fruit)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>PANTRY STOCKING</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- 1 roll of garbage bags</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- 1 can of chicken and tuna</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- 2 gallons of water </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Toilet Paper </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Propane tank filled </span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">(This is my 5 week pay period so I don't buy many extras this month)</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4saTyjr_ZoP3My9KTg7BvSF-2YVd27oYxwtYiNsPInvrhWYy4t3ROO3hjNUsS7JaxykfjVwFbpLSYE8YEfo8WlG79Ka3ORadLhgV8hyphenhyphenneY_I7lujH6zKZ8rcVw2Rrc6JqgGHjjF0yU4/s1600/rose-icon2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4saTyjr_ZoP3My9KTg7BvSF-2YVd27oYxwtYiNsPInvrhWYy4t3ROO3hjNUsS7JaxykfjVwFbpLSYE8YEfo8WlG79Ka3ORadLhgV8hyphenhyphenneY_I7lujH6zKZ8rcVw2Rrc6JqgGHjjF0yU4/s1600/rose-icon2.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How about you? What could you eliminate from your daily schedule that would give you more time to obey His commands?</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-53050708681849936192016-02-14T20:11:00.001-08:002016-02-14T20:20:48.701-08:00A Prepared Pantry The thought of a <span style="color: blue;">PREPARED PANTRY</span> has seemed overwhelming at times. But in recent months I have found a renewed interest to forge ahead and put into practice what I'm learning. Once I made the decision to take a few baby steps then the rest has been easier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGeU-pvd3SbVqfjGUdSySymNipYdbJjyB8ieudAIAkAPyftqKufQNJ4jj36wuvDzgUTejmhYe0i23fKsn7G-BgiBcjhEoaaRTayAgJ-eBnYj9VUmENnFVS53FuRBlwKbu7HHSrhFfyss/s1600/2016-02-14+17.05.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGeU-pvd3SbVqfjGUdSySymNipYdbJjyB8ieudAIAkAPyftqKufQNJ4jj36wuvDzgUTejmhYe0i23fKsn7G-BgiBcjhEoaaRTayAgJ-eBnYj9VUmENnFVS53FuRBlwKbu7HHSrhFfyss/s320/2016-02-14+17.05.02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I see a Prepared Pantry as just another way of caring for my family's needs. How many ways do we already prepare for possible future problems or needs? Healthy meals, brushing our teeth, buying insurance and even shopping for next weeks groceries are just a few. A Prepared Pantry is an extension of what we are already doing for our family. <br />
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I, personally, have 3 reasons why I want to keep a well stocked prepared pantry:<br />
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1. Personal trials (sickness, unexpected loss of income)<br />
2. Uncertain economy (national debt concerns, inflation)<br />
3. Natural disasters (earthquake, floods, blizzards, etc.)<br />
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Our government even recommends to set aside 3 days to 2 weeks worth of food and water.<br />
<a href="http://www.ready.gov/food" target="_blank">Department of Homeland Security: Be ready</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EhiJRse2l-nO60uv3iVL2uXU6m5wlAYgnxFRhH2ptVPDGWyvEWcRFA2Fk15DbTTvFFfj-uudYNJDmiD8iInhvJFQht427jUsdLfkckuU_mQrY2M-GyyuWuQbQaTHVHXPfLJ61L01RmI/s1600/2016-02-14+17.03.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EhiJRse2l-nO60uv3iVL2uXU6m5wlAYgnxFRhH2ptVPDGWyvEWcRFA2Fk15DbTTvFFfj-uudYNJDmiD8iInhvJFQht427jUsdLfkckuU_mQrY2M-GyyuWuQbQaTHVHXPfLJ61L01RmI/s320/2016-02-14+17.03.11.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two year old artichoke plant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, I've sat down and made a 2 week list for my Prepared Pantry. The food from this list will be different from my basic pantry that meets our daily needs. I've marked through the items that I already have purchased. Some months I may only have an extra $5 to build my Prepared Pantry...but something is better than nothing. <br />
<br />
-Prepare a 2 week menu using only non-perishable foods. Include water.<br />
-Purchase 4 gallons of water each month until I reach a 2 week water supply for my husband, myself and<br />
my mother (she is 84 years old and not prepping). I drink 100 ounces of water a day so that needs to be<br />
taken into account. <br />
-Purchase a 2 week supply of lamp oil, wicks, candles and matches. I already have an oil lamp. <br />
-Canned meats (tuna, chicken, beef, salmon, roast)<br />
-Canned vegetables and canned no sugar, lower carb and low oxalate fruit (not sure there is such a thing!)<br />
-Canned soups<br />
-Canned chili (no beans)<br />
-Soup making items (broth, etc.)<br />
-<s>Toilet paper (I set aside a few rolls every month)</s><br />
-Large bottle of hand sanitizer (in case there is no water)<br />
-Items to make my own hand wipes (paper towels, dish soap, baby oil, rubbing alcohol). Store bought hand wipes will dry out over time.<br />
-<s>Liquid laundry detergent, clean plunger and a large clean bucket (no electricity means no washing machine so
these items will provide an alternative)</s><br />
-<s>Large trash bags, 5 gallon bucket (toilet)</s><br />
-<s>Board games (no electricity = no TV for entertainment)</s><br />
-<s>Encouraging missionary stories,etc.</s><br />
-<s>Bible tracts (hopeful opportunities to share Jesus with others)</s><br />
-<s>First Aid kit</s><br />
-Canning lids, jars, pectin (a means to preserve food in the freezer/fridge if the electricity is out for too long)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vDKZqdJuCWp6QMoN_lAHFan9wolEH0Ym1ibORl-ieGBbJPZjthcla9xdq3NYhsJFUoUzHeBOfn8HinZXRcM6k2v3WyyYMaSn97ioRrVX94ilfn9mdqhk47xWj_6vDmauaKaTpQ3cr1E/s1600/2016-02-14+17.03.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vDKZqdJuCWp6QMoN_lAHFan9wolEH0Ym1ibORl-ieGBbJPZjthcla9xdq3NYhsJFUoUzHeBOfn8HinZXRcM6k2v3WyyYMaSn97ioRrVX94ilfn9mdqhk47xWj_6vDmauaKaTpQ3cr1E/s320/2016-02-14+17.03.57.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pruned raspberry canes</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Faith and food storage</i> are not at odds with one another. Here are just a few
examples of those who stored up food.<br />
<br />
<i>Noah</i><br />
<i>Joseph</i><br />
<i>The wise store up choice food and olive oil. Proverbs 21:20</i><br />
<br />
I would feel horrible if my family suffered because I didn't take the opportunity to prepare.<br />
<br />
I often feel anxious when I read prepping blogs because they offer no hope other than the physical. I'm thankful for their practical advice (and I do take it to heart) but frankly I don't want to imagine a future without God and His Word. I could build a huge food pantry that could be lost in a single hour. But, nothing can steal God's Word in my heart. Learning and knowing God's Word is one of the most important ways to prepare for an uncertain tomorrow. I'm currently memorizing Psalm 139 which will be one of many heart treasures that can never be affected by a failing economy or a natural disaster.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">“‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”<span class="p"> Matthew 4:4 ESV</span></span> <br />
<br />
Don't let the thought of preparing your pantry overwhelm you. Pray and ask the Lord to guide you then do what you can to deepen your pantry a little each paycheck.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span></i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene </span></i><br />
<br />
*~*~*<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span class="text Rom-8-32" id="en-ESV-28133"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?</i></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><i>Romans 8:32</i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> ESV</span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<br />
~*~*~* <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjQN5s2IA6SXhdTI3t3n-VAK8O5TZzC5ev45M4D_EIv46ig7BJlPDXn6SNnh6GoLXkoqoEnhdgVUa-QB18vR6b_bazneRgM7v2qi7lLyZ-qSZm4fCY2Y2bwb8YgLMgFr_9Klw41mhhro/s1600/2016-01-30+14.19.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjQN5s2IA6SXhdTI3t3n-VAK8O5TZzC5ev45M4D_EIv46ig7BJlPDXn6SNnh6GoLXkoqoEnhdgVUa-QB18vR6b_bazneRgM7v2qi7lLyZ-qSZm4fCY2Y2bwb8YgLMgFr_9Klw41mhhro/s320/2016-01-30+14.19.35.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 'floating' vase for Camelia's</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>“The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One. Many
ordinary treasures may be denied him, or if he is allowed to have them,
the enjoyment of them will be so tempered that they will never be
necessary to his happiness. Or if he must see them go, one after one,
he will scarcely feel a sense of loss, for having the Source of all
things, he has in One all satisfaction, all pleasure, all delight.
Whatever he may lose he has actually lost nothing, for he now has it all
in One, and he has it purely, legitimately, forever.” A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" /></a><i> </i><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><span style="color: red;"></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Here are a few things happening in our neck of the woods:</i></b></span><br />
<br />
1. My orange tree is full this year. I've never made marmalade jam before but my daughter in love inspired me by her own efforts. I made 2 batches and hope to make a couple more once I regain some strength. The first was a low sugar batch for our household and the second batch will be saved for Christmas gifts. Both recipes came from the Sure Jell package.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nIm9mJrW5XbCMQ8qm92_fnBGrwPqqARBNc2Fwh7nk18HwaRQ2CjQkUy_AdCLRguAJu60_LefxpcJw7tfbmu69g5nMe0bm6PRalrRR1wY-Fa70pMLNA_lTQWZNPfsiBB1JO90jH_8-2U/s1600/2016-02-14+17.07.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nIm9mJrW5XbCMQ8qm92_fnBGrwPqqARBNc2Fwh7nk18HwaRQ2CjQkUy_AdCLRguAJu60_LefxpcJw7tfbmu69g5nMe0bm6PRalrRR1wY-Fa70pMLNA_lTQWZNPfsiBB1JO90jH_8-2U/s320/2016-02-14+17.07.38.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
2. Our electric and gas bill were the highest they have ever been. I'm so thankful I saved the leftover money from the lower bills throughout the year.<br />
<br />
3. My 5 week pay periods are always a challenge and oftentimes catch me off guard. I've been thinking of ways to be better prepared so I went through my calendar and marked the 5 week pay periods. I also went back and marked a month in advance so I can check supplies and stock up on essentials ahead of time. <br />
<br />
4. I'm starting to prepare the garden for Spring. The apricot tree has been pruned along with the raspberry canes, grape vines, apple tree and asparagus growth (oh, and we already harvested 14 asparagus stalks with more sprouting up). Next, I need to prune the berry bush. It never ceases to amaze me how much food we can harvest from our small city lot. We purchased another white nectarine to cross pollinate with the one we already own. It's full of hopeful buds! <br />
<br />
5. I have a lovely bedroom dresser of my grandmothers. It always brings back sweet memories of staying with her when I was a child. One of the handles broke so we used Super Glue to piece it back together and let it sit overnight. It looks brand new and is strong! Super glue was also used to repair a hair clip that otherwise would be thrown away.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2jYnqI3B1jUnv-m-g-pgHeu3fNzpSGN1Ed9ooV0rN01AOMLB7feT9D7iSfl0icygNV-2xZknEeaql4DARqszOgkaZjRFedpUpCJ_Gq98u20X3zLaDh_hvwtGfjgRdKqwL9IihC5SdLg/s1600/2016-02-14+17.04.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2jYnqI3B1jUnv-m-g-pgHeu3fNzpSGN1Ed9ooV0rN01AOMLB7feT9D7iSfl0icygNV-2xZknEeaql4DARqszOgkaZjRFedpUpCJ_Gq98u20X3zLaDh_hvwtGfjgRdKqwL9IihC5SdLg/s320/2016-02-14+17.04.15.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lettuce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
6. I received my heirloom seed order. Heirloom seeds are a good value because you can save the seeds from the harvested plant. It will save us money in the long run. I purchased a few new varieties of tomato seeds which should be fun to try. <br />
<br />
7. My old kitchen counters are pretty pitiful. The grout is so old and it always looks dirty. I've tried so many things to make it look better but nothing has worked. The only thing that works is to use Bar Keepers friend with an old toothbrush and work it into the grout. I also tear out the old grout around the sink each year and replace with new caulking. I do this around the bathroom tub, too. I may not have a new kitchen but there is always something I can do to make things look better. <br />
<br />
8. I have been blessed with a neighbor who shares her Meyer lemons with me. I continue to fill ice cube trays with lemon juice and freeze. Once frozen I put the cubes into a freezer bag and place in the freezer. I love making a sugar free Lemon Curd or Lemon Supreme Bars for a family gathering. (see recipe below)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOV-m0ITnuS-bMY94_M6Jjo0pLj0fr3I4axPeED6Th52bFqO4prXBT-NpQ9a1h_ldN0wkVlmqZQPEvPAC7nHorpuSggfHpATs5Q8JZFZlhhtkpIqayfSO04rjzxdUEMJNGYtNdN-HQySI/s1600/2016-02-14+17.07.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOV-m0ITnuS-bMY94_M6Jjo0pLj0fr3I4axPeED6Th52bFqO4prXBT-NpQ9a1h_ldN0wkVlmqZQPEvPAC7nHorpuSggfHpATs5Q8JZFZlhhtkpIqayfSO04rjzxdUEMJNGYtNdN-HQySI/s320/2016-02-14+17.07.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Low sugar jam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
9. My very smart (and handsome) husband unplugged our bathroom sink. It plugged up right after Christmas and I knew our funds were low. I boiled a pot of water and poured it down the sink and my sweetheart used a plunger. I boiled a second pot of water and with more plunging it broke through whatever was stopped up. Boy, was I praising God and complimenting my husband's efforts!<br />
<br />
10. We had our taxes done for free at a local library. We have done this for the past two years. They even filed an amendment necessary for last year's taxes. The program is called <a href="https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers" target="_blank">VITA. </a> <br />
<span style="color: red;">*~*~*</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhGMpkmwskeBZbQbOQK-BsEjxdTB-HOlnZEWG1nt0Z2e4GOLzvBIAp0oCHIyULIsaZoc7pA8-zhllJacNXqvCR9vyIErLQMraTg4kpDT4b9uSrF6zUZNaCyfsx0icQFFUkZPyaoYDb9E/s1600/2016-02-12+08.06.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhGMpkmwskeBZbQbOQK-BsEjxdTB-HOlnZEWG1nt0Z2e4GOLzvBIAp0oCHIyULIsaZoc7pA8-zhllJacNXqvCR9vyIErLQMraTg4kpDT4b9uSrF6zUZNaCyfsx0icQFFUkZPyaoYDb9E/s320/2016-02-12+08.06.03.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Neighborhood Watch Cat" ( the covers are easier to wash than shampooing my couch)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;" style="font-size: 16px;">Lemon Supreme Bars </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;" style="font-size: 16px;"></span></b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;">Sift together:</span></i></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">2 cups flour</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">1/2 cup powdered sugar </span></span></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Cut in:</span></span></span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">1 cup butter</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Press into 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. </span></span></span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Beat together:</span></span></span></i></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">4 eggs</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">2 cups sugar</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">1/3 cup lemon juice (I use fresh lemon juice)</span></span></span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Sift together:</span></span></span></i></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">1/4 cup flour</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">1/2 tsp. baking powder </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Add to the egg mixture and mix together. Pour over crust and bake 25 minutes more.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cool. Cut in squares. </span></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_-dWzJOyiDFKeXMWUZZ7VI7sv_oi50FzbW8c2eScTI4eULMyWLmJlzCQprx7elkf7zpmpV6gGbvZP9-Odjlu4M1HdIXjmp345khcuYzAL2uw1taLQ6AkXHk-e7Nd-7jqTF3hGjxMlc4/s1600/recipe-575434_960_720recipebox.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_-dWzJOyiDFKeXMWUZZ7VI7sv_oi50FzbW8c2eScTI4eULMyWLmJlzCQprx7elkf7zpmpV6gGbvZP9-Odjlu4M1HdIXjmp345khcuYzAL2uw1taLQ6AkXHk-e7Nd-7jqTF3hGjxMlc4/s320/recipe-575434_960_720recipebox.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></i></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Houston Chicken </span></span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;">Boneless</span></span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"> </span></span></span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chicken (pound flat)</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bacon</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Barbecue sauce (sugar free works, too)</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cheddar cheese, shredded</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Put sauce and bacon on chicken. Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Bacon won't be done. Then broil 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle cheese and broil 1-2 minutes until melted. Check to make sure chicken is done inside.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<div class="section clrfix ingredients" style="text-align: left;">
<h2 class="section=title">
Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps by Paula Deen <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></h2>
<h2 class="section=title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made these appetizer for the Super Bowl and they were a hit! </span></span></h2>
<ul><ul>
<li>
1 1/2 lbs
boneless skinless chicken breasts
</li>
<li>
1 (1 lb) package
sliced bacon
</li>
<li>
3/4 cup
firmly packed brown sugar (or Brown Sugar Twin for lower sugar)
</li>
<li>
2 tablespoons
chili powder
</li>
</ul>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Preheat oven to 350°F.</div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Cut each bacon slice
into thirds. Wrap each chicken cube with bacon and secure with a wooden
pick inserted on the diagonal starting where bacon seam overlaps.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Stir together brown sugar and chili powder. Dredge wrapped chicken in mixture.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Coat a rack and broiler pan with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken on rack in broiler pan.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bacon is crisp. </li>
</ol>
</div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i> *~*~*</i></span></span></i></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnMe2uphQBgRjFw1N2Ar_4I1Lq4JtomgNuzVmeuafB8SNhUgt0gRil5FFPgqJ7AtWKxp0oW284ut1QOtDSHlQA2P_xa7uRHZG59O9kEzR39eoCF7cMnw7MkACcyYAGjTGEZLCZgYY8C8/s1600/2016-02-14+17.05.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnMe2uphQBgRjFw1N2Ar_4I1Lq4JtomgNuzVmeuafB8SNhUgt0gRil5FFPgqJ7AtWKxp0oW284ut1QOtDSHlQA2P_xa7uRHZG59O9kEzR39eoCF7cMnw7MkACcyYAGjTGEZLCZgYY8C8/s320/2016-02-14+17.05.46.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></i></span></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Saved, ReUsed or Repurposed</span></i></span></span></i></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Patio screen (Rolled up and stored for a future need )</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Bread wrapper (storage bag)</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Toothbrush (detail cleaning around sinks)</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Tinfoil washed and reused</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Plastic bag a shirt came in (garbage can liner)</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Paper plate plastic bag (garbage can liner,etc.)</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Rubber bands from newspaper</i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Old manila files (reused by placing a new file label over previous name) </i></span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span _mce_style="font-size: 16px;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 12px;"><i>-Newspapers (under litter box or to layer in the vegetable garden for weed control) </i></span></span></i></span><br />
-<i>Butter wrappers (I put these in a baggie in the fridge to use instead of parchment paper...thanks to an idea found at <a href="http://house-of-simple.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">House of Simple)</a></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Preparing my Pantry<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">(purchased this month)</span><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Box of Matches</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Lamp oil</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-4 gallons of water</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Wick for oil lamp</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Chicken, canned </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Garbage bags </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><i> </i><br />
What's new in your neck of the woods? A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-22395798496628850622016-01-09T20:36:00.001-08:002016-01-09T20:39:05.946-08:00Answers to a Reader's Questions on Frugality<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I recently received a few questions from a friend who is suddenly living on less money. I started to put some thoughts down on paper but then decided to turn it into a post hoping my answers might help someone else. We could all use help these days (myself included) with grocery prices rising and no end in sight. I have not 'arrived' but continue to learn from trial and error how to live within the confines of a lower income. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUGkfhsQjF3Wq57LRYQdNwUeaGYHUxbZibBtSR1aYnMgECdvYcLFPQk6CAdzy4zv0kFdAVm8A_0NJ0o0aoMMb0Ssp9zXuESJlFTfWpaYTdbc5hBSIyPm7ElNB13Km6ptiQJoQZZUhMvY/s1600/1950s+overstuffed+fridge%255B2%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUGkfhsQjF3Wq57LRYQdNwUeaGYHUxbZibBtSR1aYnMgECdvYcLFPQk6CAdzy4zv0kFdAVm8A_0NJ0o0aoMMb0Ssp9zXuESJlFTfWpaYTdbc5hBSIyPm7ElNB13Km6ptiQJoQZZUhMvY/s320/1950s+overstuffed+fridge%255B2%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So, here are a few of her questions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. What has been the largest area (monetarily) you have had to learn and
practice frugality? (groceries, utilities, extras, etc.)</b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">I
would say that my grocery budget has been the largest area I've had to learn and practice frugality. </span></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> If I exceed my monthly budget it's almost ALWAYS in
the grocery area. Not monitoring my expenditures close enough is my main problem. But, if</span></span></span></span></span></span> I work hard at tracking my spending then this is also an area that I can save money.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">2. What has been the most difficult area for you to bring under control /
practice frugality in?</span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Again....groceries!
I still don't feel like I have as much control in this area as I'd like to. I made the mistake this month of shopping on 2 different days without catching up in my checkbook. I sat down to enter my receipts into Quick Books and found that I had overspent. *sigh* </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">My 5 week pay periods are the hardest. I had a victory though this past month. I normally keep a running grocery list on my fridge. This 5 week pay period I went through the list and only bought bare necessities. I also relied heavily on what I have in my pantry.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A PRICE BOOK is very helpful. You can add any information for an item that will help you personally. I like to keep track of the date, weight and where I purchased it along with the brand. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I take advantage of the store's reward programs, too. Walmart's Savings Catcher program will match competitive store prices in their weekly ads and if they find a lower price they will give the difference in an e card. I have a $10 balance. I also buy some hard to find items through Amazon and use their credit card which gives me reward points that can be used toward future purchases. Most credit cards offer rewards. Just be careful to track your credit card spending for groceries from your checkbook as if you were writing a check or you can get yourself in trouble by the time the bill arrives. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIHBRCGiBYCxnPYmTGcfsK4IuJ-zTButbu3pd70GcMryKJDEgx_lpAFDASAgFBqKpywRKPl6ygNOmnkAUxBpj0bHV0gVPvlAPnfWhn0RDkXE2UgT7edxPcHJVchDo_zEEEDv1Cnp1W04/s1600/Bible+club+garden+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIHBRCGiBYCxnPYmTGcfsK4IuJ-zTButbu3pd70GcMryKJDEgx_lpAFDASAgFBqKpywRKPl6ygNOmnkAUxBpj0bHV0gVPvlAPnfWhn0RDkXE2UgT7edxPcHJVchDo_zEEEDv1Cnp1W04/s320/Bible+club+garden+001.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">3. What is your best piece of advice for frugality?</span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Plan ahead for known/and possible unknown expenses and work these into your monthly budget.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> Make a list of all the categories in your checkbook ledger over the past year. Most will be monthly expenses and others may be quarterly or yearly. You will get yourself in trouble if you only plan for monthly expenses without planning for the quarterly and yearly expenses. Divide those quarterly and yearly expenses by the months needed to save and then add the category to your monthly budget. You can 'hide' the money for quarterly/yearly expenses in your checkbook under that category name or start an envelope system. For instance, I have a 'dental fund' that I hide in my register of Quick Books. I add my monthly budgeted amount for dental to the previous months total. This way I have enough to pay for our cleaning by the next quarterly visit. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyh1-zxpM2pfAGezFGufM61DBUe2kl1QfdPRWOl_mGJdmPmll549JEblnY3ng9hsw0DgDqu8mRrru1cJP1ZBeo3NFZ9G3wwxYb4AZzdl2fr5srn41-DRrSxkO4VAbI8IMnPDHJF1nFu2c/s1600/blog+rolls+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyh1-zxpM2pfAGezFGufM61DBUe2kl1QfdPRWOl_mGJdmPmll549JEblnY3ng9hsw0DgDqu8mRrru1cJP1ZBeo3NFZ9G3wwxYb4AZzdl2fr5srn41-DRrSxkO4VAbI8IMnPDHJF1nFu2c/s320/blog+rolls+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Here are just a few examples of quarterly and yearly expenses:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> <b>Quarterly expenses</b>:</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- Hair appointment (I save $25 a month and get my hair done on the 3rd paycheck)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- Dental cleanings (I save $25 a month to clean our teeth several times a year)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- Oil Change (I save $10 a month. Oil changes are approx. every 3 to 4 months) </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Yearly Expenses</b>:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- Dog license (I save $10 a month which goes into a Vet Savings for office visits, vaccinations or dog license)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- Christmas (I have the bank transfer money every month from my checking into a special savings account)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- I used to save for accountant fees so this may be an area you need to set a side for monthly. Now we qualify for the free tax preparation at our local library. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- DMV ( I save $15 a month for my yearly DMV fees) </span></span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNTaqXE4lM2z3WOXNv2QA-AGrPC7NbxinQqwCRx0mx9sED_WEUnEjWb2awVi-O-ynUKmQHyDQdKGEfkYIri4voc82kxUZFHNwsweOOornDxb3CYAqiPIuWInRHi5vsyjpxQflGpsUKys/s1600/imagesCAMZ6C23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNTaqXE4lM2z3WOXNv2QA-AGrPC7NbxinQqwCRx0mx9sED_WEUnEjWb2awVi-O-ynUKmQHyDQdKGEfkYIri4voc82kxUZFHNwsweOOornDxb3CYAqiPIuWInRHi5vsyjpxQflGpsUKys/s1600/imagesCAMZ6C23.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><br />Second best advice is to save something, no matter how small, every month for unexpected expenses (car repairs, appliances, etc.) If you can't save then you need to find some place to cut back. Seriously! Nearly everyone can find somewhere they can cut back. Check impulsive spending such as fast food expenditures, extra snacks at the grocery store, Starbucks, entertainment, etc. If not, then look for ways to bring money into the home. Swagbucks is a fun way to earn and never leave your home. Living paycheck to paycheck without saving for unexpected expenses is a recipe for disaster which usual means credit card debt. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span>This past summer we
had an unexpected plumbing expense that cost more than $500. I had set aside a
small amount for quite some time in my household expense fund and by God's grace I had enough to
cover the expense. If not, then I would have had to put it on a credit
card which would have put a monthly burden on us until we paid it off. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here is an example of what I save each month: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- I take $18 out a month for house expense (filters, garden
fertilizer,etc.). Why $18? That is what I had left over at the end of my
monthly budget. *smile* (Put this last)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- I put aside another $30 a month for a larger house expense
(plumber, new fridge or washing machine, etc.).</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">- I save $10 a month for vet
bills. My goal is for $300 or more since it's nearly impossible to get out of an office visit for less. Yearly license fees and vaccinations also come out of this account. This year I hope to add another $100.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Your savings plan won't work if you get into your savings. Just remind yourself what your goals are! Write them down if necessary. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheocq6l9rC547vS8MYvHIFbNeFMAFqrFn-KizXBIxgkei_JuHwxHsQAqVXrGv3h1ppKkGS3kLgmdCN_L58A9fL2S15wO1k2xZXEb1D17d99hRF4oDtwYD9NpxmR-ew-4Of4LpsrK44hBg/s1600/olives+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheocq6l9rC547vS8MYvHIFbNeFMAFqrFn-KizXBIxgkei_JuHwxHsQAqVXrGv3h1ppKkGS3kLgmdCN_L58A9fL2S15wO1k2xZXEb1D17d99hRF4oDtwYD9NpxmR-ew-4Of4LpsrK44hBg/s320/olives+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">It seems like I am always changing my budget because new expenses come up or prices rise and I have to adjust the previous amounts. I will be paying a higher amount for my medical insurance starting in January so I readjusted my budget this afternoon. I have a budget spreadsheet on my Microsoft program which I love! My cable bill went up... I negotiated a lower price but it will change my budget. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuPcsFA7c7tefe9XxfmOWVd68vhTwg0YUHgerCtb4CiL_Un1m_yUJt10mzFivRCP-CHSFXLBi1RYqmyXhcEo5n3QH9UWebcGvOJj9cQiK0PK2f4LU7POSrEc14s5kqEBNkrx8aaC1GxI/s1600/November+2010+216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuPcsFA7c7tefe9XxfmOWVd68vhTwg0YUHgerCtb4CiL_Un1m_yUJt10mzFivRCP-CHSFXLBi1RYqmyXhcEo5n3QH9UWebcGvOJj9cQiK0PK2f4LU7POSrEc14s5kqEBNkrx8aaC1GxI/s320/November+2010+216.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">I saved the best advice for last... put your trust in the Lord and not your budget or savings. No matter how diligently we plan and save there is always that unknown factor that can throw our best made plans out of whack. </span></span>Last month I made a mistake in one area for my 'envelopes'. I panicked! Thankfully, the Lord had mercy on me and had already made provision through another mistake I had made in my checkbook which was to my advantage. (can we say OLD brain!) Boy, did I praise Him for His mercy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Remember to give to the Lord's work. Be a cheerful giver as an act of worship. Give to others. There are so many ways we can give...even if we don't have anything left over at the end of the month. Prayer, our time, a phone call, small acts of kindness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />So that is about it. Can you help my friend and add to what I have already shared? Is there anything you can think of that I missed? We both would greatly appreciate it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">*~*~*~*~*</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So, here are a few things I've done in my home this month.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. I am still watching for ways to stretch meat since it's so expensive. I cut the 1 pound bacon packages in 1/4's and use 1 section per week. I either use it in a Frittata or in a veggie scramble or on the side with fried eggs. This way my hubby doesn't feel deprived and it doesn't put a strain on my grocery budget. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDx69iDIc6Qm3WarPBqjl7AIKRRJtLAp_lMRfhx-vOHPQiWyZKKrRzVx4h1AAecup5nzPHIen0y3Rt85RyoXRWZNHEQODiKT6nkT8uEvZLaAH_LbrJFh15ZHx_iOS8Yhyrn9OalHe1Kk/s1600/december+2014+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDx69iDIc6Qm3WarPBqjl7AIKRRJtLAp_lMRfhx-vOHPQiWyZKKrRzVx4h1AAecup5nzPHIen0y3Rt85RyoXRWZNHEQODiKT6nkT8uEvZLaAH_LbrJFh15ZHx_iOS8Yhyrn9OalHe1Kk/s320/december+2014+031.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Time to dry SF cranberries, again!</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2. I ran out of my homemade cleaners all at once. Homemade cleaners can save a lot of money in my grocery budget. Here are my favorite cleaning recipes: </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bathroom Cleaner</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water and use this to clean the sink and toilet. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Laminate Floor and/or Window Cleaner</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Put in a spray bottle and spray onto mop.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/3 c. water</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/3 c. rubbing alcohol</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/3 c. white vinegar</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 drops liquid dish washing soap</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">5-10 drops lemon essential oil (opt.)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Spot Remover</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I keep this spot remover in a small plastic container with a lid and I use an old toothbrush to apply it on the stai<u>n</u>. <b> </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2/3 c. Dawn dish soap</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2/3 c. ammonia</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">6 Tbsp. baking soda</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 cps. warm water</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBvveDHC0iUhQrSs6fpm7N7WT-IKe-aP-C6HQAQ82y-zS2eNio4ZZcqXExnbXVTSd1eCadhpZc3MPlU3xOEN509QQ9YkNm_QBZ1UEgiUcFn7esInK8VXUFSIqU9s6W7c-b_gMjL-6mf4/s1600/Blog+homemade+laundry+soap+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBvveDHC0iUhQrSs6fpm7N7WT-IKe-aP-C6HQAQ82y-zS2eNio4ZZcqXExnbXVTSd1eCadhpZc3MPlU3xOEN509QQ9YkNm_QBZ1UEgiUcFn7esInK8VXUFSIqU9s6W7c-b_gMjL-6mf4/s320/Blog+homemade+laundry+soap+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A few laundry soap ingredients</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>NO GRATE Homemade Laundry Soap </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I decided to make a MEGA BATCH of laundry soap. I've seen this recipe in many places on the web but basically it's a huge batch similar to what I've made for years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 bars of soap, cut up in pieces before you put it in the food processor (I use 3 bars of Fels Naptha or 1 bar of Zote)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 <b>box</b> Washing Soda (NOT baking soda)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 <b>box</b> Borax</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 cups of baking soda </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 pounds of Oxyclean (I use a cheaper brand like Sun Oxy)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 bottle of Gain Fireworks or similar product (Optional for fragrance) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Use food processor and add in the order given above. Be sure to cut up the soap before you put it in the food processor. You may need to add Borax to the Zote in the food processor so it won't stick to the blades. Use 2 tbsp. per load in your wash. I'm hoping this will last at least 9 months for our family of 2 and 3 pets bedding. I'll track it on my calendar. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I spend $1 a month on Fabric Softener from the dollar store. I need to cost this out to see if I'm getting a good deal. I've tried using vinegar but it doesn't get the towels soft enough since I hang them on the clothes line. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzvAHMjbANOqW8SUgHtLDilTIsavq2FGO9-dqs0mb9pqNXFA6Tl9IFLF6X5mn_dJ6eJsnnJfCDNOK3OcyXShjYABNXij52yikFMJwzJO237ChfSOAd31CqMtq1kMQVjHGhsUP2JM_fMs/s1600/Blog+stain+remover+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzvAHMjbANOqW8SUgHtLDilTIsavq2FGO9-dqs0mb9pqNXFA6Tl9IFLF6X5mn_dJ6eJsnnJfCDNOK3OcyXShjYABNXij52yikFMJwzJO237ChfSOAd31CqMtq1kMQVjHGhsUP2JM_fMs/s320/Blog+stain+remover+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Spot Remover</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">3. I normally don't reuse tinfoil that has been used for dairy, meat or egg products. But, I had an idea recently to use the opposite side of the tinfoil after it's washed. I mark with an X which side to not use. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. I reorganized my freezer so I can keep better track of what I have. I have 2 'meat only' shelves and vegetables, fruit, etc. on separate shelves. This will also save time in the long run. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. I'm so excited that I found a way to dry my clothes faster this winter. I put a drying rack in front of my gas heater in the living room. My wet clothes dry in no time. I keep checking them throughout the day and move the ones that are already dried to the back rung. If company comes to the door then I throw a towel over the rack and remind myself that this is a 'working home' not a show place. I can't wait to see how this helps on my utility bill this month since I had an increase last month because I used the dryer on damp, cold days. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. I started a 'soup' container in the freezer of bit and pieces of vegetables, tomato products, meat, etc. that normally would have been thrown away. It's such an inexpensive meal. I love to make a pot of soup each week for lunch. My hubby likes any soup I make as long as I throw a Habanero pepper in. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. I've continued to knit dishcloths for Christmas gifts in the evenings while watching TV. This way I get a head jump on next year's Christmas. A friend has been teaching me how to make beanies on a loom. Such fun!</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtHarAA2Wm1pL6CGSIhTcAXAmiolQjxjPrgJYiprz4pVonXJDf7j1Fo5MIXlrWmeqUpQNoupKPofUubRlvPE-9ei2UxXC95Xo021je6C1ehioeb97E21OeyiAOSU7OBaR2mrjulmYSVU/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtHarAA2Wm1pL6CGSIhTcAXAmiolQjxjPrgJYiprz4pVonXJDf7j1Fo5MIXlrWmeqUpQNoupKPofUubRlvPE-9ei2UxXC95Xo021je6C1ehioeb97E21OeyiAOSU7OBaR2mrjulmYSVU/s320/047.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This barn was our home for 1 year while waiting to be approved for disability. We loved it!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. I squish my toilet paper roll before I put it on the roll dispenser. This practice helps slow down the speed of the roll. This is especially helpful if you have young children at home who like to play with the toilet paper. :-) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. I made Jalapeno Jelly from our garden surplus of jalapenos which I gave for Christmas gifts. Ritz sells a box of crackers with small individual wrapped tubes. I also found small tubs of cream cheese at the dollar store. I was able to give all 3 together as a gift. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtvPS9dL8TPocgUNwR8TycMpMGccLCezFzFQakHxe0pW5vZdcyatmSiH1mctTkKACHW0zaRCYVHWxqbcztbN1BpMT0_EjhlcjmtdVYtIYF1DvaDsi9tMTcc8qsbecr9XOHW8IlqwMsCk/s1600/compost+bin+blog+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtvPS9dL8TPocgUNwR8TycMpMGccLCezFzFQakHxe0pW5vZdcyatmSiH1mctTkKACHW0zaRCYVHWxqbcztbN1BpMT0_EjhlcjmtdVYtIYF1DvaDsi9tMTcc8qsbecr9XOHW8IlqwMsCk/s320/compost+bin+blog+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>10</b>. I love to cook and bake recipes in bulk and then freeze for later. I made up 2 batches of homemade pie crusts to put in the freezer. I love to have pie crusts on hand to take a quick Chicken Pot Pie meal for someone who is sick. My mama loves them, too. I also made up a low carb pie crust for us. I like to make a big meal on Saturday so that I don't have to cook on Sunday. It's my one day of the week that I like to take a break from cooking. I made a huge batch of meatloaf and froze 3 of them. I fried up 3 pounds of hamburger and divided in 3 freezer bags to use in future meals. I also cooked and then froze a batch of coconut flour pancakes for my low carb diet. Last night I made Egg Muffins to put in the freezer for a quick breakfast. I like to think of my freezer as my 'fast food' drive through. :-)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwKLLlLK-DKHW5ah5aQpTRppu-8Ixdnu-f8cqdas_11hyiptXzEWyAL_mVj-31EKIZbqUocSl9GQPMWjRWCqju4fnlx2pXRvfZ69WWyXBEFL2s6NXCpa2n3qpaMsUM3fI03tgvAMURXY/s1600/2007-09-11+19.47.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwKLLlLK-DKHW5ah5aQpTRppu-8Ixdnu-f8cqdas_11hyiptXzEWyAL_mVj-31EKIZbqUocSl9GQPMWjRWCqju4fnlx2pXRvfZ69WWyXBEFL2s6NXCpa2n3qpaMsUM3fI03tgvAMURXY/s320/2007-09-11+19.47.46.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">*~*~*~*~*</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here are a few new recipes (and an old favorite) I made this month: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Spicy Roasted Butternut Squash</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We really liked this new recipe. It will become a regular. <b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">1 large butternut squash, peeled and cut in 1 inch cubes (warm squash in microwave for 4 minutes to make it easier to peel)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 tsp. smoked sweet paprika</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 tsp. garlic powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1/2 to 1 tsp. onion salt or seasoned salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 tsp. white pepper or black pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1-2 tsp. balsamic vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2 tbsp. olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">375 for 50 minutes. You can turn half way if you'd like.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c0gDFDx4S5ofAXiz-dRZc1FauJfGkDDjESsDizE1K_d6IOKfFAfg_cyrcyJEM_5dcYisAr7Tvg86Levmz9xSObPT1JDkTkJBLiG6reIC_x9BcgqvTn_-Atu_et5QcXX1jKrcMN_I1Lo/s1600/december+2014+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c0gDFDx4S5ofAXiz-dRZc1FauJfGkDDjESsDizE1K_d6IOKfFAfg_cyrcyJEM_5dcYisAr7Tvg86Levmz9xSObPT1JDkTkJBLiG6reIC_x9BcgqvTn_-Atu_et5QcXX1jKrcMN_I1Lo/s320/december+2014+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My orange tree is full this year!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cowboy 'Caviar'</b></span></span><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>A great recipe to take to your parties. </i><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">2 cans of black eyed peas, drained</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">4-5 ripe tomatoes (or a can of drained, diced tomatoes)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3 avocados, diced</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">garlic salt to taste</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">minced yellow onion</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1/3 jar of La Victoria Salsa (medium heat)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1/4 cup Italian Dressing</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3-4 tablespoons red wine vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Mix and let it sit overnight. Eat with tortilla chips. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Oatmeal in a Jar </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I've been trying to add small amounts of carbs to my diet to help discourage kidney stone formation. I've especially missed oatmeal since going lower carb 4 years ago. I put one serving of instant oats (rolled oats would be better but the instant oats were free) in a canning jar and poured coconut milk (you can use cow's milk instead) to cover the oats. You can add nuts, raisins, coconut, etc. You can even add seasons like a little cinnamon and a sweetener. Let it sit overnight and it's ready to eat the next morning. I heated mine in the microwave but you can eat it cold, too. Great idea to make ahead for busy mornings with school age children. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1J6EVOxLQqHj3-69nGX-VefFgyYZz3HlmFSZIQJ3MEtKA8T0aGl3W6_Rwr0ixsMn2VCUOli_E6ptIi84ANDvz2R0ooLnBIm90o_7foXWqHmve2F-FjgppGs49a1not0_lBRI1cSYfw8/s1600/2015-11-28+12.37.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1J6EVOxLQqHj3-69nGX-VefFgyYZz3HlmFSZIQJ3MEtKA8T0aGl3W6_Rwr0ixsMn2VCUOli_E6ptIi84ANDvz2R0ooLnBIm90o_7foXWqHmve2F-FjgppGs49a1not0_lBRI1cSYfw8/s320/2015-11-28+12.37.08.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bapa playing checkers with an older grandson</td></tr>
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<h1>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Julia Child's Braised Red Cabbage </span></h1>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 lb. bacon<br />
1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots<br />
1 cup slice onion<br />
3 Tbsp. butter<br />
2 lbs (6 or 7 cups) red cabbage, cut into 1/2" slices<br />
2 cups diced tart apples<br />
2 cloves mashed garlic<br />
1/4 tsp ground bay leaf<br />
1/8 tsp clove<br />
1/8 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/8 tsp pepper<br />
2 cups good, young red wine (Bordeaux, Chianti) or more beef stock<br />
2 cups beef stock<br />
24 peeled chestnuts (I didn't use these)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><br />
Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. </span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Cut bacon into strips 1 1/2" long and 1/4" across. Simmer for 10 minutes in 1 quart of water. Drain. Cook
the bacon, carrots and onion in the butter slowly in an oven-proof pan
for 10 minutes without browning. Stir in the cabbage leaves and when
well covered with the butter and vegetables, cook slowly for 10 minutes.
Add all additional ingredients (except for the chestnuts). Bring to a
simmer on top of the stove. Cover and place in middle of preheated
oven. I used an enamel Dutch Oven pot. Regulate heat so cabbage bubbles slowly for 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
Add the chestnuts, cover and return pan to oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours
more, or until the chestnuts are tender and all the liquid has been
absorbed by the cabbage. Taste carefully for seasoning. Can be made
ahead - this is even better when reheated the next day! Serves 6
people. Next time I'll cut it in half for the 2 of us. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FEOUrd6klQNF_5x7-twN7rTY7d-2uFjCfqCSsjogMp3UQxKClUJmrfz8LtcxHpF6Sa7Eu104RKWby078XsiCj2S8rncO_4yzupb4Ifuey-p-y7z3ED5DNl0HKWrr84cQLdSB3uos8f0/s1600/2015-08-22+21.21.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FEOUrd6klQNF_5x7-twN7rTY7d-2uFjCfqCSsjogMp3UQxKClUJmrfz8LtcxHpF6Sa7Eu104RKWby078XsiCj2S8rncO_4yzupb4Ifuey-p-y7z3ED5DNl0HKWrr84cQLdSB3uos8f0/s320/2015-08-22+21.21.04.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Snoopy thinks if he stares at me long enough that I will feed him early. </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">*~*~*~*~*</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Save, Repurposed,Stretched or Reused! </u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Baggies, storage bags, most plastic bags (reused: washed and reused)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Coffee (stretched: replaced coffee taken out of pot that morning with more water. I pour the rest of the </span>coffee into pint canning jars and refrigerate)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Small paper bags from grocery store (I save these to ripen fruit)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Rubber bands off of newspapers</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Plastic bags from grocery store (reused for garbage cans)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Newspaper (Lasagna Composting by adding grass clippings and leaves on top) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Toilet Paper (I'm saving the very end of the paper on the roll. I take it off the cardboard, fold it and save to </span>wipe down the toilet. It normally was thrown away. As soon as the weather warms up I'll start saving the cardboard roll for my compost pile).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Deepening the Pantry (or prepping)</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-1 bottle of lamp oil</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Canned chicken and tuna (3 each)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Bottled Water (2 gallons) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Toilet Paper (I'm buying the largest package and then putting aside 4 rolls each month) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Canned soup (5) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Beanless chili (1)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Box of matches (1)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Oh... and I heard that Blogger has changed things so that it's necessary to sign up with Google in order to post? I hope I understood correctly. You can always sign up for emails through a link on the side of this blog or join my Facebook page. It really doesn't take long to join Google from what I remember. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I miss hearing from you girls and what you are doing in your homes. You always teach me so much. Anything new? How was your Christmas and New Years? Any New Year's Resolutions?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-57008676497938193842015-12-21T20:28:00.001-08:002015-12-21T20:37:19.464-08:00A Month in PicturesHello and Merry Christ-mas!<br />
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The beginning of the month started off like a whirlwind and I felt like I was being swept down the current of Christmas insanity. I just didn't know quite how to unleash myself from all the busyness. So, I prayed and asked the Lord to rearrange my schedule and slow things down... and HE DID! I was SO thankful He did because I had lost my joy for the season. Now, I'm actually looking forward to Christmas, family and celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.<br />
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I've been working on a post for nearly a month. Yep, a month! It's not going to be finished before Christmas so I decided to post a few pictures of our month, instead! It's been a very full month with grandchildren's school performances and two birthdays (and another one after Christmas) and just life in general.<br />
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Here are just a few delights:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPeFNS-_W7BhFOWQeRIuGPYpL_4Re8aFJa3r50GU9b8Ciy52BTda4D7jID-Nb4R8KekHxmrt-ttjbhD9E-Lsr9cVquS_ZRY5UQuCMI1KhPX0dD8xBsnZhxwl6OlFU_Xie38sju0K_cV0/s1600/12346416_10208021886133651_2053650611921596684_nJoshuachoir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPeFNS-_W7BhFOWQeRIuGPYpL_4Re8aFJa3r50GU9b8Ciy52BTda4D7jID-Nb4R8KekHxmrt-ttjbhD9E-Lsr9cVquS_ZRY5UQuCMI1KhPX0dD8xBsnZhxwl6OlFU_Xie38sju0K_cV0/s320/12346416_10208021886133651_2053650611921596684_nJoshuachoir.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A Christ honoring <i>Carolfest</i> with our older grandson singing at a state college, no less! PTL! My grandson is in the middle of the back row. I think he is the tallest one. We attended another grandson's band concert but I wasn't able to get a good picture of his performance. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabnm8kKOR2f2fqMuEhtlv_xWHnfZy-Q_NloIjxT_N12kYXUyEO8v8VrH9aysXaiNNvndLDDLRtqQ7BdkH0VNPwpKTfKOJgY25ZQIrgKMuKL49Jva8smp4D_J6Aklo3Q4v8tD7DBANEf0/s1600/12359875_10208057300538989_6322537524525096233_ncandy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabnm8kKOR2f2fqMuEhtlv_xWHnfZy-Q_NloIjxT_N12kYXUyEO8v8VrH9aysXaiNNvndLDDLRtqQ7BdkH0VNPwpKTfKOJgY25ZQIrgKMuKL49Jva8smp4D_J6Aklo3Q4v8tD7DBANEf0/s320/12359875_10208057300538989_6322537524525096233_ncandy.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">A fun day baking with my daughter!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZHwzaI4Grnb0HZWXT4bY3N1MDlg4RfzjT-ENOzllBaBd38IbLO64a6R9B9h4dafrArUif3-KFpEjoanyTdCK0xs70yvxPcCOynWndsc9M7Xy7_74JJ99Rw6B8GuaT36nvCm8GJfEE1M/s1600/2015-12-20+18.53.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZHwzaI4Grnb0HZWXT4bY3N1MDlg4RfzjT-ENOzllBaBd38IbLO64a6R9B9h4dafrArUif3-KFpEjoanyTdCK0xs70yvxPcCOynWndsc9M7Xy7_74JJ99Rw6B8GuaT36nvCm8GJfEE1M/s320/2015-12-20+18.53.13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> A few of the grands spent the night and made gingerbread houses!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WghjXP6vSnCMRuOM21siYwluMH6mFQaRFuBv0XpKgE2Y1p7yaVmiM4MHP5vdaFRBdjFd8pCGT5_jl21_cBxq14FOWf8eRPninFdTdjNkOl-_AcpdfHkn_880QHzUUDo1PD27gGuT4Wc/s1600/2015-12-08+07.59.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WghjXP6vSnCMRuOM21siYwluMH6mFQaRFuBv0XpKgE2Y1p7yaVmiM4MHP5vdaFRBdjFd8pCGT5_jl21_cBxq14FOWf8eRPninFdTdjNkOl-_AcpdfHkn_880QHzUUDo1PD27gGuT4Wc/s320/2015-12-08+07.59.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of the highlights of the month is </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">studying God's Word in a warm bed. </span><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14Jk6ZOht7Qh_0jbjiDdCyA4RpCaZMDKNYVy7jBL3Au3J0ueJb3wc60dFGBqWwfwbM3wM_WwFoQfI6krsEXhCpkVQeXYGC6CUmFF0gg1X06sbSNH9BN6859SV6bcI3f1HIwvy0Mo1tJM/s1600/20151208_155736_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14Jk6ZOht7Qh_0jbjiDdCyA4RpCaZMDKNYVy7jBL3Au3J0ueJb3wc60dFGBqWwfwbM3wM_WwFoQfI6krsEXhCpkVQeXYGC6CUmFF0gg1X06sbSNH9BN6859SV6bcI3f1HIwvy0Mo1tJM/s200/20151208_155736_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Miss Sassy loves our devotional time, too! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxE19QYD0sLTD64-p8WmmUKtg_a6Nk_2N-3PXDvl7HCGnTnqqL4Ahr0k4NM0ivhIwacRpZXgCd8uipLkgyDgGmOFfSVDX8d6eiMnzITxZkSTLjtZbU_hDVPXRwEmk-7flDcPFlLGMCtY/s1600/266979084129719978_egTqIWEf_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxE19QYD0sLTD64-p8WmmUKtg_a6Nk_2N-3PXDvl7HCGnTnqqL4Ahr0k4NM0ivhIwacRpZXgCd8uipLkgyDgGmOFfSVDX8d6eiMnzITxZkSTLjtZbU_hDVPXRwEmk-7flDcPFlLGMCtY/s1600/266979084129719978_egTqIWEf_b.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's hard to believe that 2015 is nearly gone. It's been a good year that has been FULL of wonderful times and memories. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnzRYREDfgNPvwKqHiZnE62_zlLeAHNGPRZNEXSXE0X_bellSvF4B7nKlrNpx43c6LVmBZk5Vawpg5O4d5OhH_x2VHAkiiIBi5cx6STqoKWF_pZ15Sk4RK6EzOlcLkqfcygOrLOhEsso/s1600/20151218_195354.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnzRYREDfgNPvwKqHiZnE62_zlLeAHNGPRZNEXSXE0X_bellSvF4B7nKlrNpx43c6LVmBZk5Vawpg5O4d5OhH_x2VHAkiiIBi5cx6STqoKWF_pZ15Sk4RK6EzOlcLkqfcygOrLOhEsso/s320/20151218_195354.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christ-mas from our home to yours! May your celebration be filled
with the knowledge of God's great love for you that is found in Christ
Jesus the Lord!</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone
around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do
not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all
the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he
is the Messiah, the Lord'” (Luke 2:9-11)</span></span></i> <br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> NIV</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next year! (Lord willing!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><i>Georgene</i></span> </span><br />
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*~*~*~*<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The idea for this post came from <a href="http://coffeeteabooksandme.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Coffee Tea Books and Me</a> posts called, My World this Week!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Thanks, Brenda!!! </span>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-76028197085036808462015-10-15T19:52:00.000-07:002015-10-15T19:59:41.207-07:00A Titus 2 WomanI was blessed to have a Titus Two woman visit this summer... my mother in love! I had the best time with her. We visited thrift stores, knitted dish cloths, talked about relationships, shared Scriptures and baked like it was no one's business! I honestly hated to see her leave.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXV_pOV24GNFHcUDt85q9nCqlWKhiGo_GUjizUzymBMtPa-R-euQ278R8Pmb80_k2AmHiZxR2uRac55cLFoo-zT9VAnFrlSOLGK5eDY86TzzWFTsT0OW98n04M0dNcLBXoJFWB0CVhSYU/s1600/20150813_154637_resizedmother2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXV_pOV24GNFHcUDt85q9nCqlWKhiGo_GUjizUzymBMtPa-R-euQ278R8Pmb80_k2AmHiZxR2uRac55cLFoo-zT9VAnFrlSOLGK5eDY86TzzWFTsT0OW98n04M0dNcLBXoJFWB0CVhSYU/s320/20150813_154637_resizedmother2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother Stump making a pie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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My mother in love has lived eighty plus years on this earth. That is a
whole lot of living and learning in God's classroom. She has gone through prosperous times and lived through times of less. We had a lot of conversations around the kitchen table about how she lived through those lean days. There has been joy and sorrow all woven together on her journey called 'life'. I learned so much by just asking questions.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1XBi_kJJVtX8EDNOFr46fNtPvqjIzOnA4FyhVro8p6AqF02mRv65rYLfgKcifs7zC6NKvUbi_cylZ2SEPv804lCXiFhHaZ1GP-npgFCd48cTujrWsdK2GhN21myydkroBCzVSB2QcJE/s1600/20150813_165443_resizedMother1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1XBi_kJJVtX8EDNOFr46fNtPvqjIzOnA4FyhVro8p6AqF02mRv65rYLfgKcifs7zC6NKvUbi_cylZ2SEPv804lCXiFhHaZ1GP-npgFCd48cTujrWsdK2GhN21myydkroBCzVSB2QcJE/s320/20150813_165443_resizedMother1.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mother sharing with her son</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is a wealth of knowledge and wisdom stored up in a godly, older
woman. We don't always value what they have learned through the years or
we pridefully think our way is better. I've been guilty of both. But,
if we can observe their lives (the good and even their mistakes)
through the lens of scripture then we will find ourselves richer for
taking the time to learn. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzQE-m-8mcMHf0Jz7VpjgorR2RxrAoh3FWpDKm_UyE9_uOus3M8D53_hApDUDEvVszmTU1zmLw3y-_uJSornnWzgY_mXF3EoivY9Doz3FyaaKeWXpgnSYJXT8rZGq5ujDK1fIrzH0d7w8/s1600/20150809_163321_resizedmother3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzQE-m-8mcMHf0Jz7VpjgorR2RxrAoh3FWpDKm_UyE9_uOus3M8D53_hApDUDEvVszmTU1zmLw3y-_uJSornnWzgY_mXF3EoivY9Doz3FyaaKeWXpgnSYJXT8rZGq5ujDK1fIrzH0d7w8/s320/20150809_163321_resizedmother3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother Stump knitting dishcloths</td></tr>
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I've finally reached that season of life where I know that I don't have all the answers. These older seasons of life are challenging. How thankful I am to know godly women I can go to for counsel. God has instructed the older women to teach the younger women specific things. Heavenly Father, help me to be a willing student. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBXSoHLuJPyewhEfjQzTPMvyPhfWCRmb2CUU367Mv7sQaY761tZ4TM69m8bxBPPWUtGuotaWHPfizgZs1bn1m48StKtBlGmGmbET8HwRWU5OhV8De61TmTcZBNTT9TUq_lLKTD1cCXhM/s1600/20151011_163358_HDR_resizedmother5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBXSoHLuJPyewhEfjQzTPMvyPhfWCRmb2CUU367Mv7sQaY761tZ4TM69m8bxBPPWUtGuotaWHPfizgZs1bn1m48StKtBlGmGmbET8HwRWU5OhV8De61TmTcZBNTT9TUq_lLKTD1cCXhM/s320/20151011_163358_HDR_resizedmother5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother in love bought a similar potholder and taught me how to make this one. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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A Titus Two woman is a gift from God to each of us! They have a story of God's redemption to tell of a life lived in the midst of His grace. How very sad if we leave this beautiful gift unwrapped.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfW6DdKAJWIK6bIZRMFImd-CAU3xb6OEvQr4wkh86tCDoL_g2i73-Psxi4i482l_HD4SEyHZY_LKbmExS9MkbFZ6TicwZjLf-fM6BMMiNTKQ5Ou7jryJu_WQHBJJLLpCueTP3sOnxJ8ug/s1600/20151011_163525_HDR_resizedmother5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfW6DdKAJWIK6bIZRMFImd-CAU3xb6OEvQr4wkh86tCDoL_g2i73-Psxi4i482l_HD4SEyHZY_LKbmExS9MkbFZ6TicwZjLf-fM6BMMiNTKQ5Ou7jryJu_WQHBJJLLpCueTP3sOnxJ8ug/s320/20151011_163525_HDR_resizedmother5.jpg" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother in love taught me how to knit dishcloths. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">OLDER WOMEN</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3"> likewise </span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">are to be reverent in their
behavior,</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">not malicious gossips</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">nor enslaved to much wine,</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">teaching what
is good </span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3"></span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span class="btext3">SO THAT</span></span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">they</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3"> may </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3"><b>ENCOURAGE</b> the young women</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">to <u>love</u> their husbands,</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3">to<u> love</u> their children,</span></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="btext3"></span></span></span></i><span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">to be<u> sensible</u>,</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u> pure</u>, </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>workers at home</u>,</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u> kind</u>,</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">being<u>
subject to their own husbands</u>,</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: red;">SO THAT</span> </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> the word of God will </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">not be
<span style="color: blue;">dishonored.</span></span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Titus 2:3-5 NASB </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">(emphasis is mine)</span></span></i></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">*~*~*~*~*</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a> </span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A few highlights from this past month:</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. I've started picking up some baking items when they are on sale for the holiday season. It's too hard on the budget to buy them all at once. I froze a bag of coconut and purchased an extra bag of brown sugar. I'll use them to make some goodie baskets. </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. I live in aprons at home so they are VERY used looking. I made one new apron before my company came this summer and just made another one a few weeks ago. </span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. I've been making my own laundry detergent for years. I've noticed that it has a different scent lately that I don't care for. It smells like metal. It might be that our city water just doesn't mesh well with the ingredients I use. I don't want to add another large expensive to my budget so instead of purchasing laundry detergent I bought an inexpensive laundry booster. It cost around $6. I used half in this last batch of detergent and it has taken away the metal smell. I haven't priced all the ingredients for a long time but it used to cost a few cents a load of wash. I can't imagine the $3 will add much to the total cost. </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. We have had some cold wintry days so I'm not always able to hang clothes on the line. I pulled out my drying rack and set it up in the garage. I have clothes lines hanging in my garage already. I've started drying clothes inside the garage on those cold days. Not using my dryer saves me quite a bit on my electric bill. My bill can jump by $30 if I start using my dryer too much. I've more than paid for the drying racks I purchased many years ago. </span></span></i></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother Stump loves bread! </td></tr>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. Normally I print out a new budget from my computer each month. My ink cartridge is expensive to replace. So, this month I put the budget inside a sheet protector and used an erasable marker. I put a mark next to the item I paid. It worked perfectly. Now, I just erase it and it's ready to use next month. I put a blank piece of paper over the top sheet of the clipboard, just in case something would hit it and erase my markings. This will stretch my ink a bit longer. I also try to write new recipes by hand instead of printing them. </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. I purchased a nightstand from a local thrift store for $7. A can of spray paint fixed the imperfections. It fits perfectly and gives me another 2 drawers for storage (which is priceless in a small home!). It looked so nice that I decided to spray a stepping stool a long time friend's husband made. I had a can of red spray paint which worked perfectly. THEN, I sprayed a small tray I use to hold a few items in the loo. Spray paint is much cheaper than paint and it looks just as nice, not to mention it takes a fraction of the time to apply. </span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. A few of the grands spent the night this weekend. We played a game that I purchased from the thrift store for less than $3. They loved the game and so did I. Sometimes the thrift store marks their games down to 20 cents. Wouldn't it be a great idea to start now and purchase games for Christmas gifts? </span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. I was looking for a Bible object lesson to share with the grands when they spent the night. My dear friend shared a few options on YouTube. They LOVED the object lesson and we kept practicing the gospel using the hand to signify each aspect. I'll give you the link in case you'd like to share it with your own family. Be sure to check out my friend's blog at <a href="http://www.givengrace.com/" target="_blank">Givengrace</a>.</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the object lesson to let them see what the Gospel is like:</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvSj-1QMPZ0" target="_blank">Bible Object Lesson</a></span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">...and this one is the memorization tool to teach the gospel using your hand:</span></span></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdADh87SAo4" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Memorization Tool</i></span></span></a><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. Here is the recipe for the Butterscotch Pie that my mother in love taught me how to make. The process is very similar to a chocolate pie recipe I've made for years. This is a RICH pie but very wonderful! </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Butterscotch Pie</span></i></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stir together in a medium bowl: </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 Tbsp. cornstarch</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 cup brown sugar</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Slowly stir in 2 cups of scalded milk to the above mixture. (you can microwave the milk for 5 minutes to scald it) </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Microwave 4 minutes until thick around the edges. Stir. Take a few tablespoons of the milk mixture and whisk into 4 egg <u>yolks</u>. Then add the egg mixture into the milk mixture and whisk. Then microwave another 3 1/2 minutes. Whisk in 4 tbsp. of butter and 1 tsp. of vanilla. You want it to thicken. </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Melt 1/3 cup of white sugar in a skillet (we used a cast iron). Pour in 1/4 cup of water all at once. BE CAREFUL NOT TO BURN YOURSELF FROM THE STEAM. Pour into previous milk mixture above and whisk together. </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pour into baked pie crust and make meringue by beating the leftover egg whites until stiff. Add 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar to the eggs and beat until a meringue consistency. Brown the meringue in a 350 oven. Enjoy!</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">10. My grandson helped plant garlic in my garden. It was a huge help and fun to share a part of my life with him. I shared the different lessons God teaches me from His Word as I'm digging in the dirt. Our winter garden is going to be comparatively small this year due to 'old agedness'. I'm feeling quite whimpy these days! :-) I have 9 broccoli, a bed and a half of garlic and a bed of onions planted. I will be content and I trust it will be just enough. </span></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">...and as your days, so shall your strength be. Deuteronomy 33:25</span><span class="p"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><u><span class="btext3" style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Saved, Repurposed and Reused:</span></i></span></u></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- I've been saving, washing and reusing plastic bags, tinfoil and baggies. They came in handy for this '5 week pay period' because I didn't need to run to the store for baggies but instead used the ones I had on hand. </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- SF Popsicle sticks to be used as markers for seedlings. </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Glass jars (I pour my grease in them instead of down the sink).</span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Unused envelopes in bills (to store seeds)</span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Newspapers (under cat box, mulching in the garden, bottom of garbage can)</span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Egg cartons (I store the larger box of eggs in the fridge outside and use a smaller carton for the inside fridge). </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Old knit shirt (cut up for dust rags)</span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Old hand towel (dust rag) </span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">*~*~*~ It would be so encouraging to hear about an older, </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> godly woman in YOUR life! *~*~*~*</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="btext3"><i>Blessed to be home!</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="btext3"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Georgene</span></span></span></span></i></span></div>
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A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-84491216357454040542015-08-30T20:24:00.002-07:002015-10-08T21:00:37.795-07:00Daily GraceWhew! I do believe this was one of the busiest summers that I can remember! It was overflowing with wonderfulness, packed full of uncertainty, exhausting and above all... BLESSED! But, in the midst of all the hustle and bustle, there was this solid assurance that God was in the smallest and biggest of all the details!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQhlVMKi7P39pE-Mw4kxqHIpb6X6iIGFma-XsfY-pj81DPzhNGe6hkfZVDDhkVuJf9pPDw-mXY5Aa8ygeY7DO4ob0MJUMSVyE8oeMwSD8rMWQtnzLfPBKqPr00Rxuw631jNPJAdhVXLU/s1600/20150722_191936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQhlVMKi7P39pE-Mw4kxqHIpb6X6iIGFma-XsfY-pj81DPzhNGe6hkfZVDDhkVuJf9pPDw-mXY5Aa8ygeY7DO4ob0MJUMSVyE8oeMwSD8rMWQtnzLfPBKqPr00Rxuw631jNPJAdhVXLU/s320/20150722_191936.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had extended and wonderful visits from our daughter in love and grands throughout the summer and my in laws were here for 10 days. A family member had surgery and another family member had several serious falls. I struggled with new physical limitations but time and time again I saw that God's grace was sufficient! I lived and breathed and experienced the truthfulness of His Word that promises His grace is made perfect in our weakness!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHXYqCcP3X6wEoc6hEWAyg8bNMlivQg_EjD-jR8BGhszbCUign1sqUrI4p3JTA2dFxGK47jOwWyGninm1A25VA1Fh9cTepMf4ra0B5dSPJduTYEz2h46VE2kp6LhiD4jsc-mdGrjPb1E/s1600/20150722_194653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHXYqCcP3X6wEoc6hEWAyg8bNMlivQg_EjD-jR8BGhszbCUign1sqUrI4p3JTA2dFxGK47jOwWyGninm1A25VA1Fh9cTepMf4ra0B5dSPJduTYEz2h46VE2kp6LhiD4jsc-mdGrjPb1E/s320/20150722_194653.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<b><i>But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made
perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my
weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.<span class="p"> 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV</span></i></b> <br />
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The vegetable garden suffered... the house was far from spotless... my laundry fell behind... and my devotional time was, to say the least, inconsistent! But, I depended on Jesus more in the daily serving of my loved ones which resulted in experiencing more of the depth of His faithfulness... and for that.... I am so grateful! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco6a9SPAJcJtMxT6Dr9-z2YNQVuMDfEIe20o6Y6B6kT6eKbIuQwo7i2e_9RbHrjTFTvcmW7jnk63LaYzz1NZsR6i9vx9TCvxUZueWsycv3gPyvlfROI0cD48AEJCmzURZ4U4kwUKQxZ4/s1600/20150717_092502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco6a9SPAJcJtMxT6Dr9-z2YNQVuMDfEIe20o6Y6B6kT6eKbIuQwo7i2e_9RbHrjTFTvcmW7jnk63LaYzz1NZsR6i9vx9TCvxUZueWsycv3gPyvlfROI0cD48AEJCmzURZ4U4kwUKQxZ4/s320/20150717_092502.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Knowing where to go for my strength makes all the difference in how I get through these busy seasons. Boy, do I accomplish this imperfectly! I'm so thankful to know that Jesus love is filled with patience!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiPzmqB8eNOgIYJcdjNRZwWA8h1nlGE7p3hRJ0g-egvnJtN0N9OHqVe8TQOrS82Lnasp85wPtlyEp2jpn8TDTIuSdY3_0UbPai0llB0Ffm5iJK4qtTLxmu5tP0U17fzq_b6lCyHhjbsI/s1600/20150718_083217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiPzmqB8eNOgIYJcdjNRZwWA8h1nlGE7p3hRJ0g-egvnJtN0N9OHqVe8TQOrS82Lnasp85wPtlyEp2jpn8TDTIuSdY3_0UbPai0llB0Ffm5iJK4qtTLxmu5tP0U17fzq_b6lCyHhjbsI/s320/20150718_083217.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New bible study in 1, 2 & 3rd John by Kelly Minter</td></tr>
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So, what is happening in your homes? I've missed hearing what you are learning and how God is teaching you through it all.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwg7qZxMkFHQJdVAX7lHaEjZm0UgFA_0RgF9zU66orZLil34XXMdfBSv7F5e_tGgjLDdsVaMLYzfV3YdK5GGWDjWrwxjJC4l7tKlDhLnqyXodqjYB09Matp3Y46y45hGT7hwh9U13hsQ/s1600/20150815_114224_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwg7qZxMkFHQJdVAX7lHaEjZm0UgFA_0RgF9zU66orZLil34XXMdfBSv7F5e_tGgjLDdsVaMLYzfV3YdK5GGWDjWrwxjJC4l7tKlDhLnqyXodqjYB09Matp3Y46y45hGT7hwh9U13hsQ/s320/20150815_114224_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We squeezed in a trip to the bay with the kids and their families.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a><br />
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Here are just a few of the highlights this summer...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmAPBf9IjXHmrDrv9gAkTLJwYHpbMSUSoxYeuaOrPdAhr8tKm5fELMrcLjxUyegDa9rY0w20AmiMSdt-dj5KFQy-Rk0yfjWO0jRIWwRZbC2YajFRuHCioZEk0xsw0AGKX5XuXDdPuqBU/s1600/20150718_111603-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmAPBf9IjXHmrDrv9gAkTLJwYHpbMSUSoxYeuaOrPdAhr8tKm5fELMrcLjxUyegDa9rY0w20AmiMSdt-dj5KFQy-Rk0yfjWO0jRIWwRZbC2YajFRuHCioZEk0xsw0AGKX5XuXDdPuqBU/s320/20150718_111603-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. I planted zucchini from seed but I also bought a few plants from the store weeks later. I ended up drying enough zucchini to fill 9 quart jars to use in soup this winter. I kicked myself last winter when the price for zucchini went up to nearly $2 a pound. I froze some shredded zucchini to use in muffins this winter for gifts. Here is a new recipe I made for my mother. She really seemed to enjoy it:<br />
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<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Zucchini-Cornbread-Casserole/" target="_blank">Zucchini Cornbread Casserole</a><br />
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2. Last summer I washed my car every Saturday like clock work. This summer I've been rethinking my weekly chores due to the drought, lots of company and some health issues. I found that I can stretch washing my car to the second week if I cover the front of my small truck with a huge piece of polyester material. Some day I might buy a truck cover but for now the polyester will do. One of the advantages of living in an older neighborhood is that no one cares what I drape over my truck. It really IS an advantage at times. *WINK* I'm also stretching my lawn mowing to every other week. I not only save my strength for other duties but it also stretches the fuel along with the wear and tear on the lawn mower.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O2ZKiQrJvRV-sk1U190t3DEY8pPtNj-DK6utEup_XsbQR4QlRkHS_Ioq4DQO-R-HYnBYFrCkmN4xR3SDrWVLjiZ5io_40wJjgXgk_CffK-OnEBBA1WX8Ec5EDLE7xEP8UfmK5gh0tYA/s1600/20150804_201953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O2ZKiQrJvRV-sk1U190t3DEY8pPtNj-DK6utEup_XsbQR4QlRkHS_Ioq4DQO-R-HYnBYFrCkmN4xR3SDrWVLjiZ5io_40wJjgXgk_CffK-OnEBBA1WX8Ec5EDLE7xEP8UfmK5gh0tYA/s320/20150804_201953.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade GIANT bubbles. Can you see it wrap around her? </td></tr>
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3. I made Julia Child's <a href="http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/boeuf_bourguignon/" target="_blank">Boeuf Bourguignon</a> for my birthday meal. It was fabulous! I waited until I found a chuck roast on sale for $3.99 a pound. My love for cooking is always rejuvenated when I can find a fun, new recipe to try that both my husband and I love! It was time consuming but heavenly! Happy birthday to ME!<br />
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4. I bought 3 small, glass saucers at the thrift store. I'm using them on my bowls instead of Seran wrap. This way I can see what is in the dish which results in less food being wasted. It will stretch the Seran wrap just a bit more, too! <br />
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5.I started volunteering at a food pantry this summer! It is such a blessing to see how God provides for those in need! The people I work with are wonderful and they always make sure to send home extra food. God used their blessings to help us stretch our grocery budget this summer when we had extra company. He is so amazing! Jehovah Roi... the God who sees!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQibT9aSjIqs-8gqdXvE_XsN7iKjplAithVX6q3SNWAYUyzxxROF00vjkm9jNAWSYejcdVQ0SORGdLY_ZzrIVBPpFjNZuA-u_n5AxeWl3FkgtPMRYqChGVfN4eB04heTjc-gBvMpB2ss/s1600/2015-07-04+09.08.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQibT9aSjIqs-8gqdXvE_XsN7iKjplAithVX6q3SNWAYUyzxxROF00vjkm9jNAWSYejcdVQ0SORGdLY_ZzrIVBPpFjNZuA-u_n5AxeWl3FkgtPMRYqChGVfN4eB04heTjc-gBvMpB2ss/s320/2015-07-04+09.08.53.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Williams, Four O'Clocks and 'Snow on the Mountain'</td></tr>
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6. The summer vegetable garden has nearly come to an end. We are finishing up the last of the corn. I still have eggplant, green beans, a few zucchini and tomatoes. The grands helped me plant some seeds to start our winter crop. I love a winter garden because it requires so much less work! I've started laying newspaper down with lawn clippings on top to cover the empty plots. This will help enrich the soil over the winter and keep down on the weeds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOytseSeOB-srmqo4w3YQznYjPsL-uBm-Sp38hg_1Uds_DxvKZ9B8RvDWRzgVhqr-mPH7-p5abRnyjqQaWZokwlgk6MCp_JCGe1WU8fHIhrAurDKZNquEbiCJQNezLzGSqArbLRhz6T2k/s1600/20150731_125716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOytseSeOB-srmqo4w3YQznYjPsL-uBm-Sp38hg_1Uds_DxvKZ9B8RvDWRzgVhqr-mPH7-p5abRnyjqQaWZokwlgk6MCp_JCGe1WU8fHIhrAurDKZNquEbiCJQNezLzGSqArbLRhz6T2k/s320/20150731_125716.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My granddaughter helping me plant seeds for the winter garden. </td></tr>
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7. I've shared many times how I use the 'Envelope Method' for many of our monthly and yearly larger expenses. I have 'envelopes' for my hair appointments, yearly DMV registration, oil changes, birthday gifts, dental co pays and larger electric bills in the winter. An envelope can be tangible or an envelope you make in your checking account where you 'hide' the money under a certain category. Recently, I was so thankful that I had an 'Envelope' for household expenses because our plumbing backed up and it cost $500 to repair. Thankfully I was able to pay cash. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Q0pi5RDbPwpqceNBHivEOWpp3kYLSFUUTmSr2pfRsTkpE-eUJAsYc-PwHJKOWDhh0TS67NtZmjlapBlRcsLOF6ICBYDlw1IhyphenhyphencoQso7-vWhNnwBjln_nVdsr1cOltFHsRvlS7nmBNAc/s1600/20150806_193813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Q0pi5RDbPwpqceNBHivEOWpp3kYLSFUUTmSr2pfRsTkpE-eUJAsYc-PwHJKOWDhh0TS67NtZmjlapBlRcsLOF6ICBYDlw1IhyphenhyphencoQso7-vWhNnwBjln_nVdsr1cOltFHsRvlS7nmBNAc/s320/20150806_193813.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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8. Eggs have doubled in price so I'm getting by with 1/3 less than last month. I rarely scramble them now since that uses more eggs so instead I fry them. I'm not baking as many low carb treats with coconut flour so that cuts down on the amount I'm using,too. I need to find more low carb ideas for breakfast that my husband will eat so I can cut back even more!<br />
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9. My daughter in love taught me how to make Bierocks while she was visting. I would have loved this recipe when my children were home because it's very inexpensive to make.<br />
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This is the dough recipe she used. <a href="http://www.cooks.com/recipe/p716k10q/quick-and-easy-dinner-rolls.html" target="_blank">Quick and Easy Dinner Rolls </a><br />
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Make the dough as directed and let it rise. Then roll the dough out to approximately 1/4 inch thick and then cut the dough into squares (4x4 inches) with a pizza dough cutter.<br />
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Fry hamburger and shredded cabbage until done. You could add garlic and onions if you'd like. Season with garlic powder, Worcestershire and black pepper. Put a tablespoon or so in your dough square and then fold up corners and bake at 350 for 25 minutes until brown.<br />
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I did a search and came up with quite a few variations. Very economical. It was fun cooking with my girl!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbr5hLK3__NiIXCONeFO9ZNAfG2IK77Pj8h7pQAEBZm6o8x4zPmhVxpxcDMY2tN37WwiwBTY7hWF2CXWMiJPVko4cRjzirNFTm3zRw6w1VjPkI29KLiYX6EYeb4ZssccH291h87aEKrww/s1600/20150730_172022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbr5hLK3__NiIXCONeFO9ZNAfG2IK77Pj8h7pQAEBZm6o8x4zPmhVxpxcDMY2tN37WwiwBTY7hWF2CXWMiJPVko4cRjzirNFTm3zRw6w1VjPkI29KLiYX6EYeb4ZssccH291h87aEKrww/s320/20150730_172022.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter in love teaching me how to make Bierocks! </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuO7n8ZGKitX1RXp9pPYi71XULQyiS6-1g-w4QyZpUKKpEOODdqa8p85QGZAjxozMbhIg98GDbCUPpZfmTbi18Oxtgfn9CncEaEBNcsuediEBri8gbvrhPoJX9dOzfLeLtacpcuzuhjM/s1600/20150730_185202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuO7n8ZGKitX1RXp9pPYi71XULQyiS6-1g-w4QyZpUKKpEOODdqa8p85QGZAjxozMbhIg98GDbCUPpZfmTbi18Oxtgfn9CncEaEBNcsuediEBri8gbvrhPoJX9dOzfLeLtacpcuzuhjM/s320/20150730_185202.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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10. I have an old grape bush in the backyard. I have a hard time giving them away because they have seeds so this year I decided to dry them for raisins. I cut them in half and took out the seeds and placed them on parchment paper in my food dehydrator. They made AWESOME raisins! It wasn't as labor intensive as you would imagine. I cut them up one night and then put the bowl in the fridge. The next morning I would dry them. I was so glad that they didn't go to waste. I stored them in a mason jar in the freezer. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATTXSEPwpAGkc97_2MDernjkrK4-djWunzPQbIbF5ZinjkGbaI0vVPLnArYmhc1CrEBlEsZQkUIxbNAj2bymv-QdYZNMO4FYJ7mhyphenhyphenmMwiTIbeUIiNRN_8MQzSwuG6R7RpZTpvePSye7g/s1600/11709579_752597928195446_6045138137789554776_nbrittsweetwilliams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATTXSEPwpAGkc97_2MDernjkrK4-djWunzPQbIbF5ZinjkGbaI0vVPLnArYmhc1CrEBlEsZQkUIxbNAj2bymv-QdYZNMO4FYJ7mhyphenhyphenmMwiTIbeUIiNRN_8MQzSwuG6R7RpZTpvePSye7g/s320/11709579_752597928195446_6045138137789554776_nbrittsweetwilliams.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter in love captured this picture while visiting</td></tr>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Saved, Reused and Repurposed:</b></span></u><br />
- Coffee grounds for Azaelas.<br />
- Banana peels for roses.<br />
- Rubber bands from asparagus, newspaper,radishes (washed and saved).<br />
- Newspaper (used under cat box, clean windows, garden mulch, painting.<br />
- Dirt and hair from vacuum (compost). <br />
- Cardboard boxes from Costco: (flattened and laid on dirt between the berries and neighbors fence to kill weeds coming from their yard).<br />
- Birthday card (cut up and used as a bookmark).<br />
- Cotton from a vitamin jar (I put it in a bag and use to take off fingernail polish).<br />
- Bacon grease (to sautee fresh green beans).<br />
- Popsicle sticks (I'll write the name of the vegetable on the stick and use it as a marker in seed pots).<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">I hope you are all doing well! </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Blessed to be home!</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Georgene </span></i></span><br />
<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-9120959636843036262015-06-08T21:04:00.001-07:002015-06-08T21:04:53.865-07:00The drought and saving money!It's no secret that California is in a drought. Everyone and their neighbor seem to have an opinion on how to solve the crisis. Most are not happy about the solutions given by our city and governor. But, I believe God's Word has the final say and it's very clear that God controls the rain. So, prayer becomes a top priority for those who acknowledge His power over His creation. I love seeing signs in front yards that say, 'Pray for Rain'. <br />
<br />
I've been conserving water ever since we moved into our home over 3 years ago. The drought was not as serious as it is now. Lately, I've started researching more ways to cut back since we may have to cut our usage by 25% in the coming years.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUV5UAjljilm27KICk6TxMoIu4xObuVuajzyx9-hnLWSNRZCoHswpca008Q7zOnksGUIa2nQyB0LMzPmqMO_z0Ks4VhfIW5w-Pi7LenqFZLOi-tyy0zBlplxU3RHhKcDmxxRpgz5fkipo/s1600/2015-05-16+12.33.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUV5UAjljilm27KICk6TxMoIu4xObuVuajzyx9-hnLWSNRZCoHswpca008Q7zOnksGUIa2nQyB0LMzPmqMO_z0Ks4VhfIW5w-Pi7LenqFZLOi-tyy0zBlplxU3RHhKcDmxxRpgz5fkipo/s320/2015-05-16+12.33.32.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Trumpet Vine taketh overeth! :-) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here are a few things I do in my home to save and reuse water:<br />
<br />
~ I put a large, plastic measuring cup under the faucet while I'm waiting for hot water to reach the house. I usually get 16 cups of cold water which I dump into a bucket outside my door. The water is used to water the herbs on the patio table or to replenish the animal watering dishes. <br />
~ I save the day old water from the cat and dog water bowls to water the plants.<br />
~ I use steamed vegetable water to throw on my plants. I just make sure to not throw it close to the back door in case it draws flies.<br />
~ Short showers.<br />
~ Hot tub instead of a shower if we just need a light bath. <br />
~ I use the <a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/03/using-water-twice.html" target="_blank">water from my laundry loads to water my flowers.</a><br />
~ Leaves are kept in my flower beds to hold moisture in the soil.<br />
~ I don't have automatic sprinklers so I use a kitchen timer to lessen the chance of a sprinkler running too long. <br />
~ I only use 2 buckets of water to wash our truck. One bucket is for the soapy water and the other bucket is clean water to wash off the soap. This morning I used the 'start up' water from the kitchen faucet to rinse my truck. <br />
~ I used to save the shower water to flush the toilet but lifting the buckets started playing havoc with my neck. But, this is another idea for those with a strong back and neck.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidI2dDUhJCqW4dB2grJSg9UApd-o-UrSO9MK0B9deUEsBnZLmOOJowe-O8o2RwhMVUOOiahDz_xqsnptHdcmfK6m4wvEdRxxCi_Susfao53Zgpx23dauVx0C2yrLzZL-OLZp0IhZnHOh4/s1600/2015-04-28+11.59.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidI2dDUhJCqW4dB2grJSg9UApd-o-UrSO9MK0B9deUEsBnZLmOOJowe-O8o2RwhMVUOOiahDz_xqsnptHdcmfK6m4wvEdRxxCi_Susfao53Zgpx23dauVx0C2yrLzZL-OLZp0IhZnHOh4/s320/2015-04-28+11.59.42.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberries are doing great this year!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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~*~*~* <br />
<br />
Last week I brought home a chocolate mint herb to dry for tea. I was in a hurry to put away my groceries so I didn't check the soil to see if it was damp. The next morning it was completely wilted. I honestly thought it didn't have a chance of survival but I watered it and hoped for the best. The next morning I was amazed to see that the water had revived it back to life.<br />
<br />
I looked at that revived herb and instantly thought to myself, "Lord, that little wilted plant is how I feel without Your Word. I have no strength to withstand the daily pressures of this life without your living Word daily sustaining me."<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0z1Um5B28ttxHXSSDn4LYjayn0BrcU3NOTphV1nw3fW3eQAQqGRMgfQiTTlykLA_1H_UzBnwEmsUYuq58O-EehkmcYMSXnF7WJi1Cua18P_wWyJskLkrx8EKF-yck_2do8jEgomDfVw/s1600/June+2014+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0z1Um5B28ttxHXSSDn4LYjayn0BrcU3NOTphV1nw3fW3eQAQqGRMgfQiTTlykLA_1H_UzBnwEmsUYuq58O-EehkmcYMSXnF7WJi1Cua18P_wWyJskLkrx8EKF-yck_2do8jEgomDfVw/s320/June+2014+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hydrangea by the front door is blooming!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
I recently was struggling with a sin issue in my heart. I kept praying and asking the Lord to guide me through His Word. This morning a Scripture came to mind as I was working in the kitchen and SUDDENLY I had the answer I had been praying for. He had spoken to me directly through His Word and I instantly had peace... perfect peace! <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="btext2"><span class="btext2"> </span>He is like a tree planted by streams of water that
yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all
that he does, he prospers.</span> Psalm 1:3<span style="font-size: x-small;"> ESV</span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my
flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no
water. Psalm 63:1<span style="font-size: x-small;"> ESV</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:2 <span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpfAqL6TesOnoVIXhLd0DRzVNhnC2ID48tIAK7weaR5cZT5_At4GjnmHSZEGn5Ch_Pb8LKsst_GuS8J_HwHC6B_O3YZPobwXN3ROqoolm_l3opXObeSzsutT4XcT5y3Pmr4JWbsS7ws/s1600/20150602_132521_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpfAqL6TesOnoVIXhLd0DRzVNhnC2ID48tIAK7weaR5cZT5_At4GjnmHSZEGn5Ch_Pb8LKsst_GuS8J_HwHC6B_O3YZPobwXN3ROqoolm_l3opXObeSzsutT4XcT5y3Pmr4JWbsS7ws/s320/20150602_132521_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>My daughter by love and my grandchildren are here for a visit</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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~~~<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Here are a few things I've been doing in my home this past month. <br />
<br />
1. I had a large pitcher of ice tea leftover from a family gathering so instead of throwing it out I used it for hubby's morning hot tea. I normally use Earl Grey tea, which is pricey, so this practice helped stretch those tea bags. I save the tea bags in a small container in the fridge and use 3 recently used tea bags for one more cup.Waste not, want not! *smile* <br />
<br />
2. The winter onions were harvested this month. I froze 3 large bags of chopped onions but then decided to dehydrate the rest to save freezer space. A dear friend let me borrow her dehydrator which did a great job. I stored the onions in canning jars. The zucchini is starting to produce and we're not eating it fast enough so I started drying it, too. Last winter I used the dried veggies in my soups. You could also use them in casseroles, meatloaf, smoothies,muffins or chili. It makes me twitch (smile) to buy zucchini in the winter at nearly $2 a pound when it's coming out my ears in the summer. This way I can purchase very little zucchini during the winter. I'm also trying my hand at drying herbs. The cilantro always bolts too fast before the tomatoes are ready. I'm hoping that dried cilantro will taste fine in homemade salsa. I'm drying basil and plan on drying some oregano soon. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE_AvrvpWQC9ztv7P-bUTP8ewKj7rhyphenhyphenUXLCdXPcf9UMVzluqX517vsK87XhgGzKtMOuX1xMuhpgUdSzMOwR3RqrR9LaH_gpwSvFxmmpboB042y79WZ48dZak9MrEg5C0BSlUdkb8_JH4/s1600/2015-05-08+10.00.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE_AvrvpWQC9ztv7P-bUTP8ewKj7rhyphenhyphenUXLCdXPcf9UMVzluqX517vsK87XhgGzKtMOuX1xMuhpgUdSzMOwR3RqrR9LaH_gpwSvFxmmpboB042y79WZ48dZak9MrEg5C0BSlUdkb8_JH4/s320/2015-05-08+10.00.21.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onions on left and boysenberries on right!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
3. I used the last bit of toilet paper on the roll to wipe down my bathroom sink/toilet instead of throwing it away. I use a vinegar and water mixture in a spray bottle to clean my sink and toilet and then wipe down with the extra toilet paper. I used to throw the last bit of toilet paper away. Not any more. :-)<br />
<br />
4. My small little backyard garden has produced enough berries to fill 15 pies so far or jam. Don't ever underestimate the size of a small city lot to stretch your grocery budget. There is a wonderful feeling of independence and joy when I can walk out my back door and pick my own food. I plan on tearing out a few more flowers and replacing them with vegetable plants next year. I'll move the flowers to the other side of the house that I only water once a week. It's very shady on that side of the house. It's their last chance for survival depending on how hardy they are. I call it my 'Last Chance Garden'. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EWDlSmudx0iQzZiM14oRGvkySNOwkBPLfNOYhZvSvpej2rPC34bxpPRBJsFyjfQP37yWE_DyJj_vpeC0YIBcVNmV-8cOUFlaMDC_dCgzpeAcbKx6jV3LObpeLnJfgSnnFOX1QkCt8ko/s1600/2015-04-28+12.03.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EWDlSmudx0iQzZiM14oRGvkySNOwkBPLfNOYhZvSvpej2rPC34bxpPRBJsFyjfQP37yWE_DyJj_vpeC0YIBcVNmV-8cOUFlaMDC_dCgzpeAcbKx6jV3LObpeLnJfgSnnFOX1QkCt8ko/s320/2015-04-28+12.03.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Last Chance Flower Garden ' on the side of the house</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5. This year I decided to pick up 1 or 2 veggie plants each time I went to Walmart. We normally grow our veggies by seeds but we've had a hard time keeping up this year. This really helped to fill in some extra places in my garden with butternut squash, eggplant and a few cooking herbs.<br />
<br />
6. I painted my spare bedroom. I was tempted to buy a new curtain rod since the older one didn't match. Instead, I checked the garage to see if I had any cans of spray paint and chose a color that blended with the curtains. It turned out so nice and looks brand new. <br />
<br />
7. I've been spending too much on snack foods... healthy snack foods.. but it still increases my budget. I decided to buy more veggies and have them ready for snacks. It's less expensive per pound and is healthier.<br />
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8. I bought a Comfrey plant off Ebay a few years ago. It's really grown big. I cut enough leaves to fill a large bucket, weighted them down with a brick and filled it with water and covered. It takes 4- 6 weeks to make a 'Comfrey tea' which I'll use on my tomatoes. Comfrey is high in nitrogen and it's cheaper than buying store fertilizers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZPAXb7Ao5WlocXM78Qt7gWYJSf5Wiuv82NOoisakkWobNlt6eNnlFxX20jwkumKNInw0cPXjdHxxWRNEs7OObVxPaip7lzeyqjusvQ8uxyw47QT4ylXOHHyrCwD0fm7gflgGCCE5yXg/s1600/20150608_132014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZPAXb7Ao5WlocXM78Qt7gWYJSf5Wiuv82NOoisakkWobNlt6eNnlFxX20jwkumKNInw0cPXjdHxxWRNEs7OObVxPaip7lzeyqjusvQ8uxyw47QT4ylXOHHyrCwD0fm7gflgGCCE5yXg/s320/20150608_132014.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One view of my backyard vegetable garden. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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9. This month I harvested leeks, onions, garlic, Swiss chard, radishes, lettuce, strawberries, raspberries, boysenberries, zucchini, yellow squash, cabbage, peppers, artichokes, cilantro and basil from my little backyard garden. Grapes, cantaloupe, watermelon, okra, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, spaghetti squash, butternut squash and eggplant are in the ground and thriving. Asparagus is sprouting spears but it won't be big enough to eat until next year. I love my garden. <br />
<br />
10. I'm always looking for ways to save time in the kitchen...especially during the summer months when I'm so busy in the yard. I like to make extra coffee, sunflower seed flour muffins, frittata, large amounts of hamburger cooked/frozen, and meatloaf recipes. Doubling my recipes helps me always have a quick meal on hand.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxzTiYPi_vkXt5vAo0fmsYdzd-hjw9gpaS9hzXYI30HAGmYp-XMFoCIS2uVuzU7HPQkJ79CD4HT49GTFBC1wd_b3ksPo6n0U6RsZIGAKzW8kc76k8ya1sZMzfSXaUhjKgJ3eXbr-QP48/s1600/2015-04-18+12.03.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxzTiYPi_vkXt5vAo0fmsYdzd-hjw9gpaS9hzXYI30HAGmYp-XMFoCIS2uVuzU7HPQkJ79CD4HT49GTFBC1wd_b3ksPo6n0U6RsZIGAKzW8kc76k8ya1sZMzfSXaUhjKgJ3eXbr-QP48/s320/2015-04-18+12.03.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter and I and mama at a Soroptomist Tea. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
11. I've been digging up small little pebbles in my garden. I throw them in a coffee can. Why? I thought you'd want to know! :-) I'll use them to put in the bottom of my pots for good drainage. They are free for the taking as long as I put out the time to gather them.This will save money in the long run. <br />
<br />
12. My sister shared a useful idea she read in a magazine. I purchased a plastic colander and hung it by the outdoor faucet to clean off the veggies before I bring them into the home. I sit on my gardener's bench (like the one below) while I'm washing and cleaning the veggies. I love this bench! It sure saves my back when I'm pulling weeds because I'm not bending at the waste.Great idea, Sis!<br />
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</iframe>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">SAVED, STRETCHED and REPURPOSED</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Radish, asparagus and broccoli rubber bands saved, washed and reused.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Egg shells crushed and thrown in compost along with veggie and fruit peels. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Plastic mushroom container washed and re used for a drawer organizer. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Bills I receive in the mail often have an extra envelope which I don't use since I pay my bills online. I use the envelope to store seeds from my flowers and vegetables. We buy Heirloom seeds for that purpose. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Small paper bag from pharmacy ( I save paper bags to ripen fruit or to store seeds).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Paper egg cartons, shredded toilet paper rolls are put in compost pile. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Coffee grinds: I buried them around the azaleas and hydrangea. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">How is everyone summer going? Are you gardening? Canning? Do you have some projects you hope to finish this summer? I always love learning from you gals!</span></span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span></i> </span></span><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-23626629955922824152015-04-14T18:02:00.001-07:002015-04-14T20:27:41.770-07:00Learning to Enjoy Life at 57There was a time, as a new bride, that 'enjoying life' was very high on my priority list. In fact, it was such a high priority that my dishes were often left undone, beds were not made and a lot of my homemaking necessities were set aside in pursuit of fun. My life was lived for what I thought would bring ME happiness.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSc0U5Xi83zTgE7IwABwpSJDhML9AmWgZEwKIx5ifIwXEHgl0LsoB2CB3hwuoJaecqYeKCU_kzFzuIHrdhPoJGoWUXfnORjSvKTx8xXWpJ8hI5B0OzYVCxxVxKhXEUZ-ceOOPX6m21SQ/s1600/2015-04-11+15.28.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSc0U5Xi83zTgE7IwABwpSJDhML9AmWgZEwKIx5ifIwXEHgl0LsoB2CB3hwuoJaecqYeKCU_kzFzuIHrdhPoJGoWUXfnORjSvKTx8xXWpJ8hI5B0OzYVCxxVxKhXEUZ-ceOOPX6m21SQ/s1600/2015-04-11+15.28.47.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating 31 years of marriage</td></tr>
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The irony of my self-focus was that it did NOT bring happiness. It oftentimes caused conflict and strife in my marriage because my husband's needs were not met. Or I would be embarrassed if someone showed up unannounced and then fret and stew over what they may have thought of my unkept home. Living for my own pleasure was a sure fire plan for misery, no matter what the enemy tried to tell me. <br />
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My priorities changed over the years. The decision to homeschool and run a home-based business forced some major changes in my daily schedule. Taking better care of my responsibilities became important because I learned that I could bring glory to God in my daily work.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><i>So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.<span class="p"> 1 Corinthians 10:31 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4qFzWvfVc6r4RnizAcyoJBZokf38MTkxiD0LgDVV0xPHYewJ0OnJn8wYh8434MEHAeL2-mnGQiTEGJ3B-qTYgVSCwkO52lkhhYlrbJL7IE7nYaShcgs7KSxJaOkkwOBy9Yc1mEtD422M/s1600/2015-04-05+13.50.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4qFzWvfVc6r4RnizAcyoJBZokf38MTkxiD0LgDVV0xPHYewJ0OnJn8wYh8434MEHAeL2-mnGQiTEGJ3B-qTYgVSCwkO52lkhhYlrbJL7IE7nYaShcgs7KSxJaOkkwOBy9Yc1mEtD422M/s1600/2015-04-05+13.50.19.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter egg hunt</td></tr>
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This was a good thing... a work of God in my life... but somewhere along the way the pendulum swung the opposite direction and I lost finding joy in my days. I also found I resented my workload at times. I have sensed for a time that I needed to make some changes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieWRqzDfTYypqIBo9L0mIDZju4PLrzHaJRJX2dpUiH6yFWIG3EyTI1MqN96PGHn9URgBEZ8tY733DxsU1DmQaAxafW2UG7QbC3BfZeFwAFiyJ6w2Vhejsyoo5z_WWv9sJsJozT8BTYPk/s1600/2015-04-05+13.49.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieWRqzDfTYypqIBo9L0mIDZju4PLrzHaJRJX2dpUiH6yFWIG3EyTI1MqN96PGHn9URgBEZ8tY733DxsU1DmQaAxafW2UG7QbC3BfZeFwAFiyJ6w2Vhejsyoo5z_WWv9sJsJozT8BTYPk/s1600/2015-04-05+13.49.28.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Easter eggs</td></tr>
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I decided to go on a treasure hunt each day to find God's gifts! A treasure hunt for joy but not at the neglect of my responsibilities. The first change I've made is taking a little break in the afternoons. I close my bedroom drapes, snuggle deep under my bed covers, turn on my heating pad and grab my newest Christian novel. Yep, a novel! Not a book on counseling, or theology or anything instructional. An easy to read Christian novel about life in a small town with some quirky characters. This special time gives me something to look forward to each day. I can't tell you what a great pocket of joy this has brought into my life. I am learning to enjoy life again at 57. Imagine that! <br />
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It's such a luxury and I thank God for every single minute of it. <br />
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<span class="reftext"></span><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><i>There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment<span class="footnote"><sup> </sup></span>in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, <span class="reftext"></span>for apart from him<span class="footnote"> </span>who can eat or who can have enjoyment? Ecclesiastes 2:24-25 ESV</i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIERO0bRDzJVrYqrDdUxUdCh8LtnlTn_Lwq1OTGHb-Wvhyphenhyphenyi-0UH88zsClir7PZdltKdy0f5nzE71Wci1fy2HwYUPP68slWlAqvAC7lcyUEhaDMnIQQpAnwR5oYhO0eWRMEBId-JeLmU/s1600/2015-04-03+12.01.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIERO0bRDzJVrYqrDdUxUdCh8LtnlTn_Lwq1OTGHb-Wvhyphenhyphenyi-0UH88zsClir7PZdltKdy0f5nzE71Wci1fy2HwYUPP68slWlAqvAC7lcyUEhaDMnIQQpAnwR5oYhO0eWRMEBId-JeLmU/s1600/2015-04-03+12.01.03.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monthly Sewing Bee at my house </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Do you have something you look forward to each day? Does it cause your heart to be lifted to God in thankfulness? I'd love to hear what it is! (Don't you think that even a busy mother with a houseful of children or a working mother can look for pockets of joy in her daily life? </span>)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day! </a></b></span><br />
(Click on this link for more frugal ideas)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Here are a few things I've been working on this month:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">1. </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">The summer months are here which means I'm back to my schedule of washing our little truck once a week. California is in a drought so I try to conserve water by using 2 buckets... one to wash and one to rinse. We get fined if the water runs into the street for longer than 5 minutes so I must be careful. I bought a large bottle of car washing liquid at Walmart YEARS ago. I use one capful per bucket and it puts a nice shine on my truck. I have saved a fortune by washing my own vehicles over the years. I keep a little whisk broom in the back seat to brush out crumbs on the floor. I found 2 cloth pouches with flaps at the dollar store. I keep them in the side compartment of the door for trash. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZZE1WdPNBTjx7GhEMJQBdoo8OnaF4-6auqUybc4YwWaBR5cgfKbNr4e17pTTyKY2-2VrIJn0NBIDC3uyxY3dLxkZMVQRNNas0kO2molba9gsGo9JVPiFDF-_GYq3atfdpfsoAuczpbs/s1600/2015-04-11+14.22.22-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZZE1WdPNBTjx7GhEMJQBdoo8OnaF4-6auqUybc4YwWaBR5cgfKbNr4e17pTTyKY2-2VrIJn0NBIDC3uyxY3dLxkZMVQRNNas0kO2molba9gsGo9JVPiFDF-_GYq3atfdpfsoAuczpbs/s1600/2015-04-11+14.22.22-1.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A fun day with the family at Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. I bought a new pair of shoes last month. I saved the sturdy box, cut off the top and used it as a drawer divider. I keep a larger box in the garage to store small boxes until I find a use for them.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. I'm finding more ways to COOK ONCE, EAT TWICE or more. We eat tacos once a week at my husband's request. So, I've decided to fry up 4 pounds of hamburger all at once to freeze instead of doing it once a week. It saves time, water and dish soap (only washing one frying pan). I'm looking for more and more ways to make life a bit easier around here as we grow older. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. I was given some body spray as a gift. I love the fragrance but I don't use body sprays so I'm using the spray as a room freshener in the bathroom. It seems there is always an alternative way to use an unused item. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn97Kz2cfE2w7JOdT9b1eJKOAaxgITKFFIX2LTDXR2FmI-Qhyphenhyphenb7IJNwZzEYMyOCKGxfTFg1ve5Lb3z0OrRHTSLcb4nxnIQfKiKxMVwmRGZnbnk9s7lKivpwWAkjEi0aWoGe-kyMQTwP0w/s1600/2015-04-11+13.19.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn97Kz2cfE2w7JOdT9b1eJKOAaxgITKFFIX2LTDXR2FmI-Qhyphenhyphenb7IJNwZzEYMyOCKGxfTFg1ve5Lb3z0OrRHTSLcb4nxnIQfKiKxMVwmRGZnbnk9s7lKivpwWAkjEi0aWoGe-kyMQTwP0w/s1600/2015-04-11+13.19.59.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Silly grandson! He loves to make people laugh!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. I continue to buy one package of white socks for my husband out of each paycheck so that someday I will have a full load of 'whites' which will save water and money in the long run. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. I made one large batch of Atkins Meatloaf and divided it into 4 meals for the freezer. This is one of my 'fast food' meals when I'm too busy to cook. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. I own 2 independent cats and one needy dog. I TRY to brush them daily to keep the hair loss down. But, their hair still can be a nuisance. I keep a box of old sheets, curtains and thin blankets in the garage. I use these to cover their pet beds and any place they sleep. I change the coverings once a week. I shake them out on the lawn before I wash them and then run an extra rinse cycle with vinegar to clean my washing machine. The smaller and thinner material is easier to wash than the entire bedspread or the fee to have my furniture cleaned. Plus, it helps keep fleas under control by regularly washing their bedding. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzY_cWIdHgABah1BXpJD6Co8TaRQzXJmA2lhNr50IZag7uSvEmPuSBKdkAdfIwARPZr9a1pts9cwV36LfGtfk1mJX6kImg1j-kgCXEJwL0YpuzrQANxHvYqqySkeXzWfoUFZ2Gulb-fc/s1600/2015-04-05+14.02.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzY_cWIdHgABah1BXpJD6Co8TaRQzXJmA2lhNr50IZag7uSvEmPuSBKdkAdfIwARPZr9a1pts9cwV36LfGtfk1mJX6kImg1j-kgCXEJwL0YpuzrQANxHvYqqySkeXzWfoUFZ2Gulb-fc/s1600/2015-04-05+14.02.52.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My grandson reading Resurrection Egg scriptures</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. </span></span> I made this recipe a few weeks ago. My husband thought it was Fried
Rice (and I didn't correct him) and loved it. Honestly, I couldn't tell the difference, either.
Much healthier than the original recipe with all the carbs.<br />
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<tr><td><div style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">
Cauliflower Fried 'Rice'</div>
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http://allrecipes.com/recipe/cauliflower-fried-rice/<br />
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<span style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<td valign="top" width="50%"><div data-grams="302.2917" data-ingredientid="4421" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
2 cups frozen peas</div>
<div data-grams="118.5" data-ingredientid="2496" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
1/2 cup water</div>
<div data-grams="54.5" data-ingredientid="6309" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
1/4 cup sesame oil, divided</div>
<div data-grams="896" data-ingredientid="5278" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
4 cups cubed pork loin</div>
<div data-grams="90" data-ingredientid="4405" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
6 green onions, sliced</div>
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<td valign="top" width="50%"><div data-grams="72" data-ingredientid="4279" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
1 large carrot, cubed</div>
<div data-grams="6" data-ingredientid="4342" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
2 cloves garlic, minced</div>
<div data-grams="560" data-ingredientid="4286" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
20 ounces shredded cauliflower</div>
<div data-grams="96" data-ingredientid="2882" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
6 tablespoons soy sauce</div>
<div data-grams="100" data-ingredientid="16317" data-role="recipe-ingredient" style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
2 eggs, beaten</div>
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<div style="border-color: #ECE9D8; border-style: Solid; border-width: 1px 0 0 0; margin: 12px 0 4px 0; padding-top: 8px;">
<span style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;">Directions:</span></div>
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<td style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top">1.</td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top">Stir peas and water
together in a saucepan; bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and
cook and stir until peas are tender and heated through, about 5 minutes.
Drain and discard water.</td>
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<td style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top">2.</td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top">Heat 2 tablespoons
sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Cook and stir pork in hot oil
until lightly browned on all sides and cooked through, 7 to 10 minutes.
Transfer meat to a plate.</td>
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<td style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top">3.</td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top">Heat remaining 2
tablespoons sesame oil the wok. Saute green onions, carrot, and garlic
in hot oil until just softened, about 5 minutes. Add cauliflower; cook
and stir until cauliflower had a tender but firm to the bite, 4 to 5
minutes.</td>
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<td style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top">4.</td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top">Stir pork and soy sauce into cauliflower mixture and stir-fry until mixture is hot and slightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes.</td>
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<td style="color: #fb6400; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top">5.</td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top">Move
pork-cauliflower mixture to one side of the wok; pour beaten eggs onto
empty side. Scramble eggs until cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes; stir
cooked eggs into the pork-cauliflower mixture, breaking up any large
chunks.</td>
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<tr><td>ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2015 Allrecipes.com</td>
<td align="right"> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxhRJxh2gmmcqpW3L9I0bdVUGeNtvmzXB91woaUlCCsRVL3ami8btyIyinSqhRCit2UTtw5Bgd1OJp4r4fSCF_CLCO5tHeBLP6gb9_9YCGxPS02gg4ydIhnnIWnhwomazTAXzZi-0c0A/s1600/July+2014+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxhRJxh2gmmcqpW3L9I0bdVUGeNtvmzXB91woaUlCCsRVL3ami8btyIyinSqhRCit2UTtw5Bgd1OJp4r4fSCF_CLCO5tHeBLP6gb9_9YCGxPS02gg4ydIhnnIWnhwomazTAXzZi-0c0A/s1600/July+2014+023.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swiss Chard survived the winter</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. I used 4 Altoid containers to prop up my computer to let the air flow underneath so it wouldn't overheat. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">10. I've made some large meat purchases because the price was rock bottom low. Hams went on sale for .99 cents a pound during Easter so I bought 2 of them to freeze for company. Spareribs went on sale for $1.29 a pound so I purchased 2 large slabs and then cut them into smaller portions to freeze. I try to buy meat at it's lowest price and stock up. I also use the ham for lunch meat which is so much cheaper than packaged lunch meat. My freezer is full! Praise God!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Saved, Stretched and Repurposed</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Bacon grease (I put it in a jar in the fridge and use for flavor when sauteeing vegetables)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Envelopes (store seeds)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Egg cartons,cardboard kind (compost)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Vegetable and fruit peels, egg shells (compost)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Rubber bands from radishes (washed and reused)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Vegetable bags from grocery store</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Coffee grounds (fertilizer for roses)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Water added to last bit of shampoo</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Leftover ice tea used for hot tea instead of Earl Grey in the mornings.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Cut a restaurant meal in half to take home and use for lunch the next day. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ My neighbor saves her newspapers for me. I use them to put under the cat box and line garbage cans. She also gives me her coupons. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I saved the first cold water from the faucet while waiting for the hot water. I poured it into a bucket on the porch to water the herbs. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I used 1/4 amount of suggested amount of fabric softener. Just enough to help the towels smell good. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Blank back of paper, cut in squares and used for scrap paper. I keep a stack in most rooms to write down notes before my old brain forgets. :)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Paper bags from grocery store used to ripen fruit. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I look forward to hearing if you have captured pockets of joy in your day. I'm hoping we can learn from each other as we find more ways to find joy in this life that God has graciously given us. </span></span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene </span></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>John Piper wrote: You are selling your soul for a bowl of oatmeal when you want God to
just meet your earthly needs and call that love. That is not love. Love
is when God frees you from your love affair with yourself and frees you
to enjoy making much of him forever. You were made to know and love God.
You know this is true. You stand by the seacoast. You stand by the edge
of the Grand Canyon. You stand with your eye to a telescope, the Hubble
telescope pictures or whatever. You stand there and you find your soul
drawn out of yourself. And for a brief moment you are free from
self-consciousness and self-absorption and it is the most full,
satisfying, deep, wonderful moment and it will be forever if God is the
universe and God is the Grand Canyon and God is the ocean. That is why
you were made.</i></span></span> </div>
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-85187728536081586442015-03-22T19:52:00.003-07:002015-03-22T19:53:26.930-07:00An Uninvited Guest<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(This post contains affiliate links. This means that I
may make a small commission if you click on that link but it doesn't
increase your price. Thank you so much!)</i></span> <br />
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An uninvited guest came to visit a few years ago. At first he would come for short visits and then leave. But, this past year he became more persistent and was determined to stay. I really didn't want him here. I even demanded that he leave. Nothing seemed to discourage him. He really is a bother and a big nuisance and only thinks about himself. I have way too much work to get done but he really doesn't care and tries to take up all my time. I have prayed so often for God to make him leave but as of today he is still here. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmnigwn0cBVezkCFOGdo5-IeruVtknvyKVJSzIWrgE62xMaEAP33X5j2rUca2iwyELfmqib8Xp-9XpjspKyFXrXgUNV0SNwiv1-f1gpkMaNR3-wPybacVrZnRpDjRsVlh2ETiEkjd4wM/s1600/JoshGrandpaGrammy3mos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmnigwn0cBVezkCFOGdo5-IeruVtknvyKVJSzIWrgE62xMaEAP33X5j2rUca2iwyELfmqib8Xp-9XpjspKyFXrXgUNV0SNwiv1-f1gpkMaNR3-wPybacVrZnRpDjRsVlh2ETiEkjd4wM/s1600/JoshGrandpaGrammy3mos.jpg" height="216" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little grandson was definitely INVITED into our lives. He is now in high school. </td></tr>
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I've tried to handle his presence in different ways. Sometimes I ignored him. Sometimes I focused on him way too much. I studied how to get rid of him which only seemed to make him presence stronger. Lately, I've settled down to the fact that since he is here today then I must learn how to go on with my life in spite of his annoying presence. I have a great life to lead, you know! So, the question then became.. how do I live for God's glory with this uninvited guest?<br />
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Well, if you haven't guessed it by now, my uninvited guest is chronic pain and his feeble companion known otherwise as fatigue.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm feeling nostalgic. Another old picture of two of my grandbabies who are now teenagers. </td></tr>
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I recently finished two books that have been so helpful in learning how to deal with this new uninvited guest.
<i><b>Think it not Strange</b></i> is a quick and easy read but I found some treasures of encouragement from this author. Claudette and her husband were new missionaries to Russia when an accidental slip on ice left her bedridden and sent back to the United states. There is very little written about her actual life but mainly the lessons she learned when dreams were cancelled and her new life was not what she had expected. The book is filled with verse after verse of Scripture to exhort the reader. <br />
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Here are a few of my favorite quotes:<br />
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"Pain is certainly not rest, as some sturdy folks think. Pain involves hard labor. This toil includes the responsibility to "bear fruit" in our lives, even while bearing pain."<br />
"The fruit that should be evident in our lives (though not fully ripe till we are in glory ourselves) includes: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5;22-23). They can miraculously survive our pain levels and break through our moods, to bless others far more than any manual labor would. But we cannot do it without the Spirit of God!"
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The second book titled, <b>Pain: The Plight of Fallen Man </b> was a more in depth read but definitely worth it. The author (who is a Rheumatologist) explains the process of how the body processes and then interprets pain. It's fascinating to discover how thoughtfully and detailed our Creator designed these amazing bodies when dealing with pain. Dr. Halla scientifically supports how our interpretation of the pain actually determines whether our pain decreases or increases. There are several chapters that teach about the purpose of our relationship with Christ and how God works our trials into a plan for our good to make us more like Jesus. I took a lot of notes from one of the final chapters called, "Practical ways to get victory in the midst of pain". <br />
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Here are a few great quotes:<br />
~ "What a person thinks about pain and the condition he has are crucial ingredients. For example, focusing on pain and pain relief only intensifies pain."<br />
~ "I have hope. I don't have to stop hurting to be able to accomplish something, especially pleasing God. When I do hurt it is very different to sit down and ask myself, "what fruit of the Spirit is God wanting to produce?" I get busy doing that and find that I don't hurt as much or that getting relief is not as important as pleasing God."
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These new lessons are really no different than the lessons I continue to learn about contentment and living with less. My days rarely go as I plan and my daily work list has gotten shorter out of necessity. My floors are not as clean as I want them and some days my bed doesn't get made. But by God's grace, I am learning to turn to the Lord more and more each day and He is teaching me to die more to self so that the fruit of His Spirit will be manifested in my life. Important lessons. Good lessons. Hard lessons.<br />
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<i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">And we know that for those who love God <u>all</u> things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For<b> </b><span class="reftext"></span>
those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be <u>conformed to the image
of his Son</u>, in order that he might be the firstborn among many
brothers. Romans 8:28-29 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span></span></span></i><br />
<span style="color: red;">*my emphasis*</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 'Selfie' of my sweet mama and me! </td></tr>
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*~*~*~*~*~*<br />
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<a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day in my Home</a> <br />
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A few things I accomplished in my home this past month:<br />
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1. Last month I eliminated one bowl of canned dog food by moistening dry dog food instead. My dog likes her warm bowl of food in the morning. This month I did the same thing for half her evening meal. This is making a big difference in stretching her canned food which ultimately will stretch my grocery money.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEp1DjrZD3M_QBCbWQMqWh8ZkMgg3tC6_ohGTpe9Cqzrspw2pbmvUcXpWuOXRu0dP4YRE7yepkO0-6KX9GObysM6QG-Od1g9bSHO5_7M13gQhFPVzH7eHVRmbOJ95jrICngScAexSAos/s1600/2015-03-10+01.32.16.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEp1DjrZD3M_QBCbWQMqWh8ZkMgg3tC6_ohGTpe9Cqzrspw2pbmvUcXpWuOXRu0dP4YRE7yepkO0-6KX9GObysM6QG-Od1g9bSHO5_7M13gQhFPVzH7eHVRmbOJ95jrICngScAexSAos/s1600/2015-03-10+01.32.16.mp4" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The grands made 'chalk rockets' when they spent the night this month. </td></tr>
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2. I have a handled scrub brush I use to clean the dog and cat food dishes. They were looking really awful so I made a note on my 'dollar' store list to buy 2 new brushes. Instead, I soaked them in bleach for half a day. They look like new and it saved $2.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made a nursing cover for a gift. </td></tr>
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3. I refilled my spray bottle in the bathroom with half white vinegar and half water to clean my toilet and sink. <br />
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4. I soaked orange peels in a jar of vinegar for 2 weeks. The vinegar is for cleaning my bathrooms and it smells nice with the orange scent.<br />
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5. I go through a lot of dish soap since I wash my dishes by hand. This month I added water to the second half of dish soap left in the bottle. This helped stretch the dish soap. I do this with liquid hand soap, too. <br />
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We covered our artichoke plants this winter and they survived the frost. </div>
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6. I needed to wash one of my blouses on delicate cycle. Instead, I put it in the bathtub and washed it before I took a shower. I used a lot less water. I hung it on a hanger to dry in the shower. <br />
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7. I like to do my baking on cold mornings so I can open the oven door to warm up the kitchen. <br />
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8. I buy the sugar free Altoids in the little tin box. I always save the tin box to use for all kinds of things such as holding buttons, homemade lip balm or holding safety pins. Last week I realized my laptop computer was getting too warm underneath so I took 4 of the tins to prop it up. Problem solved because the air was able to flow underneath the computer.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday to my grandson! He is the blonde haired baby in the picture towards the top. </td></tr>
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9. I bought pork ribs in bulk on sale for $1.49 a pound. Each bulk package costs around $20. I bought 3 packages which was a big chunk out of the grocery budget but meat rarely goes on sale that low these days. I cut the ribs down to smaller portions and froze them for future meals. Hams should be going on sale soon for Easter and I hope to stock up on a few. <br />
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10. I love the whole roasted chickens at Costco for a quick meal. Leftovers are made into soup and chicken salad for sandwiches/lettuce wraps. The extras are frozen for lunches. I also bought 5 pounds of chopped ham for $2 a pound and sliced it in thin slices to freeze. This price is cheaper than the lunch meat packages which normally run double that price.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dog plopped right in the middle of my board game with the grands. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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STRETCHED, REUSED and SAVED!<br />
~ Glass jars to store old grease in before it goes in the garbage. <br />
~ Chicken carcass from Costco is used to make chicken broth.<br />
~ Chicken liver from whole chicken (saved until I get enough for a meal). <br />
~ Compost pile: egg shells, toilet paper holder, newspaper, veggie scraps<br />
~ Coffee grounds buried around the roses.<br />
~ Plastic bags (no dairy or meat) washed and reused.<br />
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Are you ladies doing any extra cleaning for Spring? I've started a list of a few things I do yearly:<br />
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~ Spray paint my front door screen.<br />
~ Paint the wood threshold for the front door.<br />
~ Wash all my windows, inside and out.<br />
~ Wash winter blankets and rugs at the laundromat.<br />
~ Spot paint my kitchen cabinets and in the bathroom.<br />
~ Finish working on organizing 'hot spots' in the garage. <br />
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We'll see how long this takes me! :-) How about you?<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,<br />Georgene</span></i><br />
<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-73808212699931244862015-02-20T07:44:00.000-08:002015-02-20T07:44:32.786-08:00MAKE DO for one more day! <span id="goog_842984840"></span><span id="goog_842984841"></span>I have a tale to tell of a 'not so pretty' bedspread. This bedspread covers a queen size bed in our<br />
office/guest room/sewing room /cat room. The bedspread was given to me about 8 years ago. It was missing the pillow shams so I turn it sideways to cover the sleeping pillows. It's an older print and certainly doesn't look like the comforters I see in the stores. It adds no spark to the room whatsoever. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnFMSbf1yJXwXWAteX7qlJVdfd8ji4hKC13SE1tAZo9or7kwv84R1zDcbGS3zSoL8SgyOtLiir0yeARIXXdkcvQlF3JK4wwFQ3kfXdhQIdLautZngSeinw62AD8zOkAvUiD97I1uodo4/s1600/20150216_150445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnFMSbf1yJXwXWAteX7qlJVdfd8ji4hKC13SE1tAZo9or7kwv84R1zDcbGS3zSoL8SgyOtLiir0yeARIXXdkcvQlF3JK4wwFQ3kfXdhQIdLautZngSeinw62AD8zOkAvUiD97I1uodo4/s1600/20150216_150445.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry tower and BB girl!</td></tr>
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I often think about buying a new bedspread but then I check the prices and decide that I can make do for one more month. I've asked myself 'why' I think I need a new bedspread since there are no holes in it and it's not falling apart. There is still a lot of life left in that old bedspread. I'm not sure but I imagine it's because it doesn't fit the image of the bedrooms I see on TV. It would be nice to have a beautiful room when company comes to visit. But, once I think about other needs... real needs... I decide to be content a while longer. Trying to gain the approval of others can be costly in more ways than one.<br />
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<i></i>
<i>"Our identity in Christ, knowing that we belong to him,
serves to remind us that material luxuries, status symbols, and
clothing, houses, and cars are meant to be enjoyed but were never give
to stamp a sense of identity on our lives. Our gracious Lord has already
done that.: Jeff Manion</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBq8-GBk6o-kmSzCguqHCg4hyphenhyphen3NhTew0FAdH1MQTyyG5QxqWQ896aVlDdLzM_9UXMM0zq-qwnhsnpHgx5BmM82MVHDXgXVASRS6kdKoLex2DgQbSUSCiO8S6O4r9XIdzwifFXSaXn-uw/s1600/20150216_150227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBq8-GBk6o-kmSzCguqHCg4hyphenhyphen3NhTew0FAdH1MQTyyG5QxqWQ896aVlDdLzM_9UXMM0zq-qwnhsnpHgx5BmM82MVHDXgXVASRS6kdKoLex2DgQbSUSCiO8S6O4r9XIdzwifFXSaXn-uw/s1600/20150216_150227.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garlic is doing great!</td></tr>
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One 'need' is a dental and eye care fund. I use the 'envelope' method to save for upcoming expenses so we're not caught off guard. I have 'envelopes' for car repair, savings, vet bills, hair cuts/weave, DMV registration, birthday gifts, alms and a general household savings for appliance repair or replacement. But, I do not have an envelope for dental or eye wear. We have a new dental procedure that costs $95 a couple times a year. I need to prepare for that ahead of time. My sweetheart will be needing glasses sometime soon. So, I moved things around in my budget and I will be taking out a little money each month to put in a dental/eye wear envelope.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #cc0000;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></span></i></span><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #cc0000;">
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white;">Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it</span></span></b></span>.</span></span></i> Proverbs 13:11 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span><br />
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If I put money into 'fluffing' my nest then I won't have money for future dental and eye wear expenses. It's more important to care for our health needs than impress someone with a fancy spare bedroom. (The cats really don't mind the bedspread at all! *wink*)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOINh4XIW768XRHoYGzvMxNdVQ2KHZZCtxwBvaT8KVhSa6TRAOvAyilZXcSroE8CBnG-EH6-Fy6J0xgn-dEG-JXCg0jnuXde75kVS0wNgRqOPb-lrUkdgPxbuG84VUCVhObCctociPxE/s1600/20150216_150513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOINh4XIW768XRHoYGzvMxNdVQ2KHZZCtxwBvaT8KVhSa6TRAOvAyilZXcSroE8CBnG-EH6-Fy6J0xgn-dEG-JXCg0jnuXde75kVS0wNgRqOPb-lrUkdgPxbuG84VUCVhObCctociPxE/s1600/20150216_150513.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My camellia bush is full of flowers this year. </td></tr>
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So for TODAY, I am learning the wisdom in lessons of contentment and making peace with my old bedspread for ONE MORE DAY and thanking God that I HAVE a spare room with a comfy bed to put that old bedspread on. I'm working on changing the way I think about this bedspread. I'm finding ways to enjoy it. I'm practicing thankfulness by God's grace. His grace really is sufficient. <br />
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*<span style="color: red;"> </span><i><b><span style="color: red;">Now there is GREAT GAIN in godliness WITH contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.</span></b> 1 Timothy 6:6 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></i><br />
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* <i><span style="color: red;"><b>Keep your life FREE from the LOVE of money, and be CONTENT with what you HAVE, for he has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you</b>.</span> Hebrews 13:5<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> ESV</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> *My emphasis</span><br />
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*~*~*~*~*~*<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a></span><br />
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Here are a few things I've been working on this past month:<br />
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1. I made a new batch of spot remover for the laundry. This time I didn't add baking soda to the recipe as I have in the past because I thought it was rough on the clothes. I keep it in a quart canning jar above my washing machine with a tooth brush. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b> Spot Remover</b></span></span></div>
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2/3 cup Dawn detergent (original blue formula)</div>
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2/3 cup ammonia</div>
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2 cups warm water<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo70a4mUkosUMs_16Ubw4QTk9_386figkBIMlIOJDVs-M3fc89Pd1jKGqOBOjslfjCZTh14ve5ycBCRVUiZG2wNUO8l9_QK2u1M6CBgDOerv8BZYjmrHLQGCnKT8U5lQHICAKe3JiXPA0/s1600/20150216_150425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo70a4mUkosUMs_16Ubw4QTk9_386figkBIMlIOJDVs-M3fc89Pd1jKGqOBOjslfjCZTh14ve5ycBCRVUiZG2wNUO8l9_QK2u1M6CBgDOerv8BZYjmrHLQGCnKT8U5lQHICAKe3JiXPA0/s1600/20150216_150425.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Hen and Chicks' are blooming.California weather has been so warm that the plants think it's Spring. </td></tr>
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2. I love trying new recipes. It keeps it fun in the kitchen. This salad dressing was from Barefoot Contessa's website on Food Network. The salad was wonderful but a little pricey with the Feta cheese and the Kalamata olives. I'll watch for the olives at my discount canned food stores and sales on on the Feta cheese since it freezes well. It would be a lovely salad to take to a potluck (blessing).<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Greek Salad</span></b></div>
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* Put in this order in the bowl. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large head Romaine Lettuce, chopped.</div>
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2-3 whole ripe tomatoes, cut in wedges</div>
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1 whole cucumber, peeled, cut in fourths, diced large chunks</div>
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1/2 whole red onion, sliced very thin</div>
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30 (or 1 cup) whole pitted Kalamata olives, cut in half (used less)</div>
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Fresh parsley, chopped roughly</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Salt and pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Toss with tongs</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Toss above ingredients with tongs. Just before serving add 4 oz. Feta cheese and squeeze with a little fresh lemon juice. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Greek Salad Dressing</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cloves of garlic<i>, minced</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-2 tsp. oregano</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. dried basil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. good red wine vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. Kosher salt (I used sea salt)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 t. freshly ground pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 cup good olive oil (I used grape seed oil)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I added about 1 tsp. Erythritol to sweeten)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I made the dressing in a canning jar and kept it in the fridge for 24 hours. Shake regularly (the jar! *smile*) This is my new favorite salad dressing. (I made a double batch to keep in the fridge for lunch salads)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZSK6m0p7KHXT3I6EUoac6hxvn9RMtS4QxF1aGdwLkabHh6xniez3f69ksbgGo6ndbZ32F1LKiMEMWsi1FXoZA2GzTK1qtWkkDWu8Z0oBE7UGUPn1Z0F9QvspPQkHrA4MBnVKNIwnkA/s1600/Hughson+Move+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZSK6m0p7KHXT3I6EUoac6hxvn9RMtS4QxF1aGdwLkabHh6xniez3f69ksbgGo6ndbZ32F1LKiMEMWsi1FXoZA2GzTK1qtWkkDWu8Z0oBE7UGUPn1Z0F9QvspPQkHrA4MBnVKNIwnkA/s1600/Hughson+Move+010.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this picture of the 'grands' being silly for Grammy. They were so young then. </td></tr>
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3. This is the second year that we had our taxes prepared <i>free</i> through our local library. We waited 2 hours but it saves us a lot of money. <br />
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4. I finally used up the floor cleaner that we found in the garage when we moved here. It's so expensive to purchase cleaning products so I did a search and found a recipe to make my own. It works great. As always, please check any cleaning recipe on an 'out of the way' spot to make sure it works well on your floors.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 cup water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 cup rubbing alcohol</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 cup vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-3 drops of dish washing soap<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3G5Hq3DSfXKiWhhSxyOR4RdARWaPN8m3s-95DOFTf8VsWYGv_8M6oD4yQdCFIgFqX3p3WSTzbUMvzywB-CpwT3wEMgXSk5fcP6VEe80uDiKtzfCRLD8Xi9PamFVN8BX_IJgus4E1_EfI/s1600/20150216_150434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3G5Hq3DSfXKiWhhSxyOR4RdARWaPN8m3s-95DOFTf8VsWYGv_8M6oD4yQdCFIgFqX3p3WSTzbUMvzywB-CpwT3wEMgXSk5fcP6VEe80uDiKtzfCRLD8Xi9PamFVN8BX_IJgus4E1_EfI/s1600/20150216_150434.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I put the lettuce pots on an outside table to deter the snails. </td></tr>
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5. A new law passed in California that the egg laying companies have to give chickens room enough to move around in their cages. As a result, our egg prices have double. I had no idea about the law being passed until I went to buy eggs and saw that a box of eggs had literally DOUBLED. Gasp! So, I started adding water to our scrambled eggs. Normally, for 1 serving I'll use 1 egg and 2 egg whites but now I cut back one egg white and fill half of the egg shell with water and add it to the scrambled eggs. It makes the eggs fluffy. I've also cut way back on low carb baking which uses a lot of egg whites. I stretched our eggs to last an extra week. <br />
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6. I went to taste some sugar free cranberries I was making on the stove and the syrup scalded my lip. It was bad. I should know better. I remembered my daughter in love had given me an aloe plant. I used it often throughout the day. The burning stopped and it healed quickly.<br />
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7. I have a small ironing board for quilting that a friend made years ago. The cover has been stained for years and I've always wanted to make a new one. My daughter in love, a few friends and I are planning on sewing together once a month, so this was just the encouragement I needed to replace it. I used the old cover as a pattern. The material was free from a friend. It turned out great. <br />
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8. I stretched my hair appointment for an extra month. I put $20 in my envelope fund each month to pay for hair needs. Normally I go to the hair dresser on the 3rd payday but I always have to dip into the budget to pay the balance of the bill. So by stretching my hair appointment for an extra month, it freed up that extra money to use somewhere else. A friend said that my gray 'roots' just look like a lighter blonde. Such a nice friend. *smile*<br />
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9. My sewing machine turn wheel froze up and wouldn't not turn. I read the manual and oiled it but it still wouldn't move. I looked on You Tube for a video on repairing sewing machines and found one that showed how to take it apart. I took the sewing machine apart and had my husband oil it where he thought it needed oil. Now, it works good as new and I saved a repair bill.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrA4KSra5bSIEclYEfUwD1-YhJVdhCuVLBmCYyUsi6FLS_5choD_cjDnpHlACFhu4Z4H3yZJpPRzgct4GrdcIY7r9_LSUo78XMJMUR7n0cA_a-VtPk31iwpSEzT_ZDOVhabgUqicqdhFk/s1600/20150216_150244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrA4KSra5bSIEclYEfUwD1-YhJVdhCuVLBmCYyUsi6FLS_5choD_cjDnpHlACFhu4Z4H3yZJpPRzgct4GrdcIY7r9_LSUo78XMJMUR7n0cA_a-VtPk31iwpSEzT_ZDOVhabgUqicqdhFk/s1600/20150216_150244.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onions and garlic in a raised bed I added last year. </td></tr>
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10. I found whole milk on sale for $2.99 for my sweetheart. It's normally a dollar more. The expiration date would come sooner so I froze half of the gallon. It doesn't end up being watered down since it's whole milk and has a higher fat content. <br />
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I have more things on my list that I did this past month but I'll save them for another time. Groceries continue to rise and our electric has gone up.. yet the Lord continues to teach me how to be content with all He has given. We really are a blessed nation! I thank Him for His goodness throughout the day as I go about my work. He has been so good to us!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Saved, Re-purposed and Re-used:</span></b><br />
~ Rubber band from radishes (washed and reused)<br />
~chicken bones, cooked (chicken broth)<br />
~ Salsa jar (to discard grease)<br />
~ Gizzard from whole chicken (I freeze them until I have enough to make a meal<br />
~ Chicken liver from whole chicken (fishing bait)<br />
~ plastic bags (LC tortilla bags, vegetable bags,etc. washed and reused)<br />
~ Small sturdy box (drawer organizer)<br />
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Well, these are just a few things I've done this month to stretch our income. How about you ladies? How are you doing with your grocery budgets now that prices continue to rise? I love to learn from you!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span></i></span><br />
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A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-30176758899789473882015-01-18T15:12:00.000-08:002015-01-18T15:12:02.536-08:00Come by for a chat...The New Year is here! It feels like 2014 flew by is such a flurry. I remember when I was a young mother and how long the days seemed ... but not any more. Not sure what has changed but I rarely finish my 'to do' list each day.<br />
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December was a busy, busy month but a lot of fun. My work at home got behind with all the celebrating, so I'm working through <a href="http://www.flylady.com/" target="_blank">FLYLADY'S</a> 'House Blessing' and 'Zone' work each week to catch up. I've already accomplished so much. I've been using her housekeeping plan as a guide for over 10 years. It's the only plan that has ever worked for me. I love it! I don't follow all of her suggestions but the 'House Blessing' and 'Zone' work have made a huge difference in how I keep house. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YLaWuz115iNQqrW699LR8JfqQIDvl4mLIqOn-3MG2pcRv9xh7qDJHDswO1pWARDlpIC6V2Op1c-5q0L0e2tBqLpdloN4wMM-J-wB3o7EUvDOls0HEzF6kNGfn9LtaQgVyPSA99o6ad0/s1600/Christmas+2014+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YLaWuz115iNQqrW699LR8JfqQIDvl4mLIqOn-3MG2pcRv9xh7qDJHDswO1pWARDlpIC6V2Op1c-5q0L0e2tBqLpdloN4wMM-J-wB3o7EUvDOls0HEzF6kNGfn9LtaQgVyPSA99o6ad0/s1600/Christmas+2014+032.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our '1st' Christmas! We celebrated Christmas 3 times this year! </td></tr>
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My winter garden is doing very well. I've been harvesting broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Swiss chard and collard greens and oranges. I should have enough garden veggies to last a minimum of 3 more weeks. I froze some broccoli to use once the garden is finished. I've started a list of veggies and herbs I want to grow this summer. My daughter in love used graph paper to draw up a plan for her vegetable garden. I liked that idea and hope to start working on mine in the coming weeks. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnd5TT0O5w9oiqFPjP1h1VrS_y9qILh_Ft-7iATWbZO6syVVwcVIFxlMdARzqg66M8NoKZsUZGWuOrf4GXgI28Dtw8vnn0JwtYuOGWoHzW8pn6Ae2wwY6GNdNPsE5m8WONynLOMGbQtgg/s1600/Blog+january+2015+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnd5TT0O5w9oiqFPjP1h1VrS_y9qILh_Ft-7iATWbZO6syVVwcVIFxlMdARzqg66M8NoKZsUZGWuOrf4GXgI28Dtw8vnn0JwtYuOGWoHzW8pn6Ae2wwY6GNdNPsE5m8WONynLOMGbQtgg/s1600/Blog+january+2015+007.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabbage from our backyard garden!</td></tr>
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I have a few sewing dates this month with family and friends. I'd like to make as assortment of gifts for next Christmas to cut costs. I don't want to put it off until next fall because it won't happen if I do. I hope to work on a new apron pattern and a fancy pot holder to start off. I also hope to make a couple of quilts this year. <br />
<br />
.My big goal for this year is to memorize more Scripture. I can't even put into words what God's Word has meant to my life. I decided this year to try and memorize an entire chapter of the bible. I felt like my thoughts really needed a project to focus on so I chose Romans 8 because it's one of my favorite chapters. I started slowing down when I got to verse 8. Thankfully, I ran across this booklet that has a great method for memorization. I just finished verse 16 this week. This old brain has trouble with the order of some of the recent verses I've memorized but if I see the first word then I'm good from there. :-) I'm more interested in hiding God's Word in my heart than knowing the order perfectly so I'm enjoying the journey instead of stressing about my imperfections. It's been a delightful practice!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=geosblo0f-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00JJPZUZM&asins=B00JJPZUZM&linkId=66ZPLIADCHCEHB5G&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">All Scripture is <b>breathed</b> out by God and <b>profitable</b> for teaching, for
reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,<b> </b><span class="reftext"></span><b>that</b> the man of God <span class="footnote"></span>may be complete, <b>equipped</b> for every good work.</span></i></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
2 Timothy 3:16 ESV (Letters in bold are my emphasis)<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>
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<span class="p">Disclosure Statement: </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 85%;"><small>This
website contains affiliate links to products I think are awesome. This
means that I make a small commission if you decide to purchase the
product, but this does not impact your price. Thank you so much for
shopping with us. </small></span><br />
<br />
***<br />
<a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day in my Home</a><br />
<br />
So, here are a few things I've been up to: <br />
<br />
<br />
1. The price of bacon costs nearly as much as a steak these days, unless it's on sale. I buy 1 package a month IF it goes on sale for less than $3 a pound. I cut the bacon into 6 sections, put them in baggies and freeze. It adds a little variety throughout the month without breaking the bank. <br />
<br />
2. I always have a lot of cilantro leftover when I buy it for a recipe. I tore off the leaves and packed them in a ice cube tray and filled each section with water. I froze it and then placed the cilantro ice cubes into a large freezer bag and labeled it. Now I don't have to run to the store when a recipe calls for cilantro unless I need it as a garnish or in a dish that isn't cooked. The frozen cilantro works great in soups. <br />
<br />
3. I've never tried making a Fritatta. Can you believe it? We eat a lot of eggs for breakfast so I decided to try one. We really liked it and I was able to stretch it for quite a few breakfasts. I used this recipe from Pioneer Woman called, Sunday Frittata. Here is the <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2013/12/sunday-frittata/" target="_blank">link</a> to the recipe. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLNE9aP6K_X85k_7T3QGOHnGQHFg03kStCCay8qIIOaMGjjpLACBemfpPwjsiNlveX-6svpQhFHbmX2bF4RiFrlawzUq8uwbd-0dvTNe2huK9PF5bOf8tS1t5vBc7RO-e5ElLaM_9-gk/s1600/Blog+january+2015+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLNE9aP6K_X85k_7T3QGOHnGQHFg03kStCCay8qIIOaMGjjpLACBemfpPwjsiNlveX-6svpQhFHbmX2bF4RiFrlawzUq8uwbd-0dvTNe2huK9PF5bOf8tS1t5vBc7RO-e5ElLaM_9-gk/s1600/Blog+january+2015+001.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunday Frittata</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 85%;"><br /></span></div>
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4. This is another new recipe that we really enjoyed. I made a large pork butt roast and used a pound of it for this recipe. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Posole Verde</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 pound of boneless pork (I used cooked pork and cut it into cubes)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Salt </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A few tablespoons of oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(2) 15 oz. cans hominy, rinsed and drained (I used 1 can)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(1) 16 oz. jar salsa verde (I like 'roasted' salsa verde)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cups chicken broth</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 medium onion (I used 1/2 onion), chopped</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 4oz. can diced chiles (I used roasted chilies from my garden)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5 tsp. jarred garlic or 5 cloves</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Tbsp. cumin</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. dried oregano</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
* Optional Toppings: avocado, radishes, chopped cilantro, lime wedges and sour cream</div>
<br />
*
Season pork (if you're not using cooked pork) with salt and brown in
oil until brown on all sides. Stir in hominy, salsa, broth, garlic,
cumin, onion, and spices. Add salt to taste. Cover and simmer for 30
minutes or put it in a crock pot for 41/2-5 hours (use raw pork if you
cook in the crock pot).<br />
* Use toppings, if desired.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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5. Our orange tree is full of fruit this year. I've been taking the peels and putting them in a small crockpot along with cinnamon sticks and whole cloves and lemon peels. As the 'concoction' heats up it sends a nice fragrance through the house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oyfFa5x5WeEPcm2pJsWT9X2O8SBpYuQ4STMNQkg7p-vuUyQmOGo6ko36emKphAY5_za7OOK3pSTRHodlMCqLXUN6gwEE_1TVzUve8V8iiWQwDmfD3nOwzHS1zL18cNQGGGELDyax_5Q/s1600/garden+blog+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oyfFa5x5WeEPcm2pJsWT9X2O8SBpYuQ4STMNQkg7p-vuUyQmOGo6ko36emKphAY5_za7OOK3pSTRHodlMCqLXUN6gwEE_1TVzUve8V8iiWQwDmfD3nOwzHS1zL18cNQGGGELDyax_5Q/s1600/garden+blog+007.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camelia is in bloom. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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6. I've been able to harvest 4 cabbage heads out of my backyard garden so far. There are 7 heads left in the garden. I use it to make coleslaw, Crack Slaw, Fried cabbage and eggs for breakfast and the new recipe listed in #8. I also like to throw a handful into my soups and stews. <br />
<br />
7. My neighbor offered me some Meyer Lemons from her tree. They have such a wonderful flavor and I was thankful to get some for free. I squeezed the lemons and then poured the juice into ice cube trays and froze them to use in recipes or in a cup of tea. <br />
<br />
8. This new recipe is a keeper. I took it to a pot blessing and it was well received PLUS my husband liked it. I used the cabbage from my garden. It was very yummy. I made a few changes to make it lower carb. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spicy-Southwestern-Slaw/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=spicy%20mexican%20slaw&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page&soid=sr_results_p1i1" target="_blank">Spicy Southwestern Slaw </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 c. shredded cabbage</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 carrot, shredded </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 onion, diced (I used 1/2)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 red bell pepper, diced</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I used a small handful of </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
jarred jalapenos)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro (I used more)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Tbsp. sugar (substituted 2 Tbsp. Erythritol and 1/8 tsp. stevia to taste)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. cayenne pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Salt and pepper to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ol>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage, carrot, onion, red pepper, jalapeno and cilantro. Set aside.</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">In a small
bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar, cayenne pepper, salt and
pepper. Pour over vegetable mixture and toss to combine. Cover and
refrigerate for at least one hour. </span></li>
</ol>
8. It's time to clean out the my old bill invoices from 2014 to make room for 2015. I'm shredding the paperwork and putting it in the compost pile. I cut up the pages that are blank on the back to use for note paper. I keep notepaper in almost every room of my house so I can write down a thought before I lose it. (Losing thoughts happen a lot at my age! Ha!) <br />
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9. I'm running low on 'fast food' freezer meals for breakfast and dinner. So, this week I spent some extra time in the kitchen making low carb muffins. I put them in the freezer for a quick breakfast choice on Sunday's before church.<br />
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10. A law has been passed in California that plastic bags can no longer be used in large retailers starting in July of this year. I use their plastic grocery bags in my kitchen garbage can and for other purposes. I don't want to add anything else to my grocery list. I remember my mother using newspaper to line her garbage cans. So, I decided to start saving any newspapers that come through my door so I'll have a nice supply by July. . <br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Saved, Re-purposed or Reused:</span></b><br />
<br />
- Cotton from my vitamin bottle (reused to remove fingernail polish)<br />
- Clean and dried plastic bags and reused as food storage bags (walnut bag, Erythritol,etc.).<br />
- Bacon grease (used in place of oil to sauteed veggies or eggs)<br />
- Washed, dried and reused tinfoil (no dairy or meat).<br />
- Comics from the newspaper to use as wrapping paper for the younger grandchildren.<br />
- Twistie ties from the veggie department.<br />
- Buttons from an old shirt that no one else would want. I put them in an empty Altoid tin and then placed the tin in my 'button box'.<br />
- Chicken bones (soup broth)<br />
- Empty glass jars from salsa, artichoke hearts, etc. (used for leftover grease before it goes in the garbage can.<br />
- Paper bags from the grocery store. (I use these to dry flowers and veggie seeds). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4r7qbvceqm8bPmiK29CRm6SCx-mLSjPOrnKl4mudT2jgpNATkUyP2MSKCZiz67KW_gbXUitwV1Nu1nPIpeajbzeUQWF5QmiYTjmrrJy9g5n5-dQl5ztbnGkdhvqC4WD9dWbR7c8Lc974/s1600/contentment+from+mind+readers+dictionary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4r7qbvceqm8bPmiK29CRm6SCx-mLSjPOrnKl4mudT2jgpNATkUyP2MSKCZiz67KW_gbXUitwV1Nu1nPIpeajbzeUQWF5QmiYTjmrrJy9g5n5-dQl5ztbnGkdhvqC4WD9dWbR7c8Lc974/s1600/contentment+from+mind+readers+dictionary.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />So what is new in your home? What do you have planned (Lord willing) for this coming month? I always learn from you ladies!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span></i><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-22346474241353649992015-01-01T08:29:00.001-08:002015-01-01T08:29:13.959-08:00Grace for the New Year!Happy New Year to you and your family! I loved this devotional from Pastor John Piper and decided to share it with you. May we live (coram Deo) before the face of God today and always!<br />
<br />
<br />
***<br />
<blockquote>
<em>By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace
toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of
them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.</em> (1 Corinthians 15:10) </blockquote>
Grace is not only God’s disposition to do good for us when we don’t
deserve it. It is an actual power from God that acts and makes good
things happen in us and for us.<br />
<br />
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<br />
God’s grace was God’s acting in Paul to make Paul work hard. So when
Paul says, “Work out your salvation,” he adds, “it is God who works in
you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
Grace is power from God to do good things in us and for us.<br />
<br />
This grace is past and it is future. It is ever cascading over the
infinitesimal waterfall of the present from the inexhaustible river of
grace coming to us from the future into the ever-increasing reservoir of
grace in the past.<br />
<br />
In the next five minutes, you will receive sustaining grace flowing
to you from the future, and you will accumulate another five minutes’
worth of grace in the reservoir of the past. The proper response to
grace you experienced in the past is <em>gratitude</em>, and the proper response to grace promised to you in the future is <em>faith</em>. We are <em>thankful</em> for the past grace of the last year, and we are <em>confident</em> in future grace for the new year.<br />
<br />
http://solidjoys.desiringgod.org/en/devotionals/grace-for-the-new-year A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-60978905284641724142014-12-05T12:29:00.002-08:002014-12-08T20:16:33.068-08:00Our Tongue and the Family<span style="font-size: large;">I recently read a question that captured my attention. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>Are you growing in how you love your spouse?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Right on the heels of that question I began reading a book called,<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0781412153/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0781412153&linkCode=as2&tag=geosblo0f-20&linkId=AP6YY24LS762LOYY%22%3EThe%20Hardest%20Peace:%20Expecting%20Grace%20in%20the%20Midst%20of%20Life%27s%20Hard%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=geosblo0f-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0781412153%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0781412153/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0781412153&linkCode=as2&tag=geosblo0f-20&linkId=AP6YY24LS762LOYY">The Hardest Peace: Expecting Grace in the Midst of Life's Hard</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=geosblo0f-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0781412153" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> which shared how their marriage was blessed by speaking the 'law of kindness' to one another. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVfiteGPuWoac1KCPkRItJ09V98MFi1Ur-o3BDK2BylqYyLtIdrstnx2H6P90W3wEGu0WYAmNGbLdIHcH5dNPqtY5G1XxO3CPhoW0xEawzYKsPD2PRqNcjpXzFwGzCGAAgT8UaEJz-NQ/s1600/december+2014+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVfiteGPuWoac1KCPkRItJ09V98MFi1Ur-o3BDK2BylqYyLtIdrstnx2H6P90W3wEGu0WYAmNGbLdIHcH5dNPqtY5G1XxO3CPhoW0xEawzYKsPD2PRqNcjpXzFwGzCGAAgT8UaEJz-NQ/s1600/december+2014+026.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I thought of what the opposite of kindness might look like. A cold shoulder? Distancing ourselves? A sharp, biting reply? Sarcasm? Standing up for ourselves with a cascade of unedifying, prideful words? Oh my! How many of us have given in to these temptations? I surely have at one time or another. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">She opens her mouth with wisdom; and on her tongue is the <span style="color: red;">law of kindness</span>. Proverbs 31:26 <span style="font-size: x-small;">KJV</span></span></i><span class="p"><br /></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzS8KygNK5vspEK9hdCZhgmD5oWMOFrrFf5U-gODUyEaEme7LjQ2jJRHN0nP4KF9EZ39B0qspa7NXWYpnmswrW8XiIin3ImWMr_gtmqs8CwioloiL-ccOmXFkOQpPZMqP97e9COrrxQ70/s1600/december+2014+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzS8KygNK5vspEK9hdCZhgmD5oWMOFrrFf5U-gODUyEaEme7LjQ2jJRHN0nP4KF9EZ39B0qspa7NXWYpnmswrW8XiIin3ImWMr_gtmqs8CwioloiL-ccOmXFkOQpPZMqP97e9COrrxQ70/s1600/december+2014+010.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing a new 'thrift' store game. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've noticed how different seasons of life can tempt us to respond unkindly. I remember when my children were young and following a sleepless night there was the temptation to snap out a command instead of asking kindly. Sickness, retirement and growing older (the last 2 are my current season) can prove a temptation, too. We surely need the power of the Holy Spirit to respond kindly when we are in a weakened state. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus is the best reason to entice my heart to return a kindness for an unkindness. He showed the ultimate kindness by dying on the cross to pay for my sins... a death I deserved! While I was STILL a sinner.. undeserving of His kindness...an enemy...He died for my sins. The ultimate act of kindness! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Returning good for evil...a kind word in response to an unkindness... is a beautiful opportunity to daily live out the gospel message to my family and others. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Be <span style="color: red;">kind</span> to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 </span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It also shows my Savior how much I love Him by obeying His command. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i> “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. John 14:15</i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnSKkAl-a2nD4twxuQdmT3SN6xVvMjJxOeM0RAhtbvOL2yNJxgSLdSALyG3FvGnIb5V6_LqE17njzMlYskzMdtiuY2Ki9AfpV6gojgkCi-4GcLfENt34xWnfGR9zUv7B2VnZ6rBLb8pw/s1600/december+2014+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnSKkAl-a2nD4twxuQdmT3SN6xVvMjJxOeM0RAhtbvOL2yNJxgSLdSALyG3FvGnIb5V6_LqE17njzMlYskzMdtiuY2Ki9AfpV6gojgkCi-4GcLfENt34xWnfGR9zUv7B2VnZ6rBLb8pw/s1600/december+2014+015.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"> The grands and I playing Apples to Apples. (Can you see my cat on the back of the couch watching the neighborhood?)</span></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"God, please help me to live by the 'law of kindness' towards others. I have often returned an unkindness for an unkindness. Help me by the power of your Holy Spirit that lives in me to deny myself and follow you. In Jesus Name, Amen."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love <span style="color: red;">KINDNESS</span>, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 <span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience,<span style="color: red;">KINDNESS</span>, goodness, faithfulness, Galatians 5:22 Galatians 5:22 <span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></i></span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, <span style="color: red;">KINDNESS</span>, humility, meekness, and patience.. Col. 3:12 <span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></span></span></span></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A TYPICAL FRUGAL DAY</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Our ladies group at church is starting a new bible study in January. I found a used workbook through Amazon for half the price. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GeYfcpbjfGGCqveQit5qy-nY5_ZHgmG2UX_7OmmeWDIt6dYFbHv4QRzw2jC3_aGBmwp4M0jQZgy3QvwN2a4nLbpeWx5OSMCP5FQalEJHSr2KrN_P4PNDMyfbeU3rUQGw7RB2F5kdxZ8/s1600/norman-rockwell-freedom-from-want-march-6-1943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GeYfcpbjfGGCqveQit5qy-nY5_ZHgmG2UX_7OmmeWDIt6dYFbHv4QRzw2jC3_aGBmwp4M0jQZgy3QvwN2a4nLbpeWx5OSMCP5FQalEJHSr2KrN_P4PNDMyfbeU3rUQGw7RB2F5kdxZ8/s1600/norman-rockwell-freedom-from-want-march-6-1943.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. I've been off of wheat (except for an occasional indulgence) for over 3 years now. I normally don't miss it but lately I've been having problems with insomnia and find myself dipping into my husband's crackers in the middle of the night. I'm not sure why carbs are appealing to me at 2am in the morning... but they are! :-) So, I decided to be proactive and make some low carb crackers. I put them in the freezer for those 'I can't sleep' nights.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sunflower Crackers </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3/4-1 cup sunflower seed flour (or almond flour)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4 tsp. Erythritol</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 egg white</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">less than 1/2 tsp. sea salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/8 tsp. garlic powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/8 tsp. onion powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mix together and then divide into 20-24 small balls. Place on a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Put a piece of Seran wrap over a small can to flatten the balls and then peel off the Seran wrap and place on the cookie sheet. Bake at 325 for 15-20 minutes. Watch closely the last 5 minutes. Edges should be brown, center will be light colored. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. I had an old kitchen cabinet in bad shape that we hoped to use in our garage but we just didn't have room for it. I hated to have my son take it to the dump since he is so busy so I kept thinking how I could repurpose it. I finally came up with the idea to make it into a compost bin. The doors and the back were taken off leaving just the frame. It works PERFECT! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. I found a new game at the thrift store. The grands loved it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. I was inspired by Crystal's post over at <a href="http://homesteadinghomemaker.blogspot.com/2012/04/canning-chicken-noodle-less-soup.html" target="_blank">Homemaking on the Homestead</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">on canning Chicken Noodle-less soup</span>. I didn't have 2 whole chickens but used a very large package of chicken thighs and breasts. I canned 5 quarts of soup. My husband said it was very good. I hope to can a lot of soup this winter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6.We had a big crop of hot peppers this year. I froze some but there was still a lot left. I decided to dry a batch. I'll use an old coffee grinder and pulse it into red pepper flakes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. I made <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2012/09/spaghetti-sauce/#recipe-form-234638" target="_blank">Pioneer Woman's Spaghetti Sauce</a>. It's a keeper and I think the best recipe I've made so far. We put it over the spaghetti squash we grew in our garden. </span><br />
<h2 class="recipe-title" id="recipe-form-234638">
<span itemprop="name">Pioneer Woman's Spaghetti Sauce</span></h2>
<h4 class="recipe-sub-head">
Ingredients</h4>
<ul>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">5 pounds</span><span itemprop="name"> Ground Beef (I used 3 pounds)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 Tablespoons</span><span itemprop="name"> Olive Oil</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Large Yellow Onions, Diced (I used 1 onion)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Green Bell Pepper, Seeded And Diced (Omitted)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">6 cloves</span><span itemprop="name"> Garlic, Minced</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> White Wine (or Low Sodium Beef Broth If You Prefer)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 cans</span><span itemprop="name"> 28 Ounce Crushed Tomatoes</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 can</span><span itemprop="name"> (14 Oz. Size) Crushed Tomatoes</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 can</span><span itemprop="name"> (small, 4-ounce) Tomato Paste</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 jar</span><span itemprop="name"> Good Storebought Marinara Sauce (can Use Another Jar If You Like The Sauce To Be More Saucy Than Meaty)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon</span><span itemprop="name"> Ground Oregano</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon</span><span itemprop="name"> Ground Thyme</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">4 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Bay Leaves (omitted)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 Tablespoons</span><span itemprop="name"> Sugar (I used Erythritol)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 teaspoons</span><span itemprop="name"> Kosher Salt</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 teaspoon</span><span itemprop="name"> Crushed Red Pepper (optional)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> Finely Minced Fresh Parsley (or 3 Tablespoons Parsley Flakes), More To Taste</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Rind From One Wedge Parmesan (optional, I'm dairy free so I omitted)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, I omitted)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 pounds</span><span itemprop="name"> Spaghetti, Cooked Al Dente And Tossed With Olive Oil </span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount"> </span><span itemprop="name"> Extra Minced Parsley, For Serving</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount"> </span><span itemprop="name"> Extra Parmesan Cheese, For Serving</span></span></li>
</ul>
<h4 class="recipe-sub-head">
Preparation Instructions</h4>
<div itemprop="instructions">
IMPORTANT: This recipe can easily be halved! I just like to make a ton so I can freeze it. <br />
In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until
totally browned. Remove meat from pot with a slotted spoon and put into a
bowl. Set aside. <br />
Discard any grease in pot, but do not clean the pot. Drizzle in olive
oil. When it is heated, throw in the diced onion and diced bell pepper.
Stir it around for 1 1/2 minutes, then add the garlic. Stir and cook
for an additional minute. <br />
Pour in the wine and allow it to bubble up and reduce for about 1 1/2
minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and marinara sauce. Stir
to combine, then add oregano, thyme, sugar, salt, bay leaves, and
crushed red pepper (if using). Stir, then add cooked ground beef and
stir to combine. Place the lid on the pot and allow to simmer for 1
hour, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or some low-sodium broth
if it needs more liquid<br />
After an hour, add the minced parsley and the rind from a wedge of
Parmesan (or grated Parmesan if you prefer--or both!) Stir to combine,
then put the lid back on and allow it to simmer for another 30 minutes
or so. Discard bay leaves before serving.<br />
Serve a big bowl of oiled noodles and spaghetti sauce so guests can
serve themselves. Top each serving with minced parsley and grated
Parmesan (or Parmesan shavings) and serve with a big piece of
garlic-cheese bread.<br />
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My grandson's are getting so big!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. I don't like to run out of an item and I especially don't like to spend extra money on a trip to the store because I ran out of something. So I try to keep a backup of most essential items. For instance, I save about a 1/4 of my hairspray and put it in an older bottle. It doesn't take long before I have a full extra bottle which then will become the next bottle I use. I also take out a roll of TP from the package and store it away. I keep an extra tube of toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant on hand, too. This also helps to not pay the highest price for these items so I can wait until they go on sale. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. I'm picking broccoli and Swiss Chard from my winter city garden. The cabbage is almost ready along with the collards. Just planted a kale plant but it won't be ready to pick for quite a few months. We're still getting some raspberries and the oranges should be ready within the month. Now if I can just keep that rascal of a gopher out of my garden! Ugh!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">10. It seems I'm always wanting a bag of cranberries to enjoy with that last turkey in the freezer but after the holidays they are hard to find. This year I've purchased 3 bags and hope to purchase a few more. I keep the bags in the freezer. I dried one bag in my dehydrator and used the other bag to make sugar free cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving. I hope to make some low carb Orange Cranberry Muffins soon. </span><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzprRm07ZVzkM1jhSvyqB_SAxzPcali6V12Gt4F_l8_dyINd0fN7JPqF34peDIOpaBXMfqD9ajmbgf3K6TWCltNesy7MM54-3v37a1YzTd99gLKbXSH6vaFp4ZdLcQRPipkYx4r-95LsY/s1600/december+2014+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzprRm07ZVzkM1jhSvyqB_SAxzPcali6V12Gt4F_l8_dyINd0fN7JPqF34peDIOpaBXMfqD9ajmbgf3K6TWCltNesy7MM54-3v37a1YzTd99gLKbXSH6vaFp4ZdLcQRPipkYx4r-95LsY/s1600/december+2014+031.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drying Cranberries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Praise Report:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ A friend called and said she had some free turkeys and food to share. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Saved, Re-used and Make-Do</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">- I saved the cotton from my vitamin jar to take off fingernail polish.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- I'm raking and saving leaves to put in the compost pile.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- I saved tea bags (3 make one cup of tea)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Repurposed a cabinet for a compost bin.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- I saved chicken bones and a ham bone to make broth.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Broccoli stalk and grated it for a salad. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- I saved/washed the rubber band from the veggies I bought at the </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> store to to reuse. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Newspapers to use under the cat box. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Grocery garbage bags to line my garbage cans. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you all have a wonderful, Christ-filled Christmas! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>GEORGENE</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-17557675406766621472014-10-30T16:26:00.000-07:002014-10-30T20:03:35.398-07:00Making do with OLDER HOMESMy little 745 sq. ft. cottage was built in the early 1900's. It has a lot of personality! :-) It's not fancy and it's definitely not upgraded. But, it's comfortable and it's God's gift to me. He has entrusted this home into my care for a specific number of days that only He knows. Perhaps I will live here until I'm close to leaving for my heavenly home. Or perhaps He will move me on tomorrow. Life is full of surprises and only He knows the winding and turning of the path He has planned for me. I want to always remember that this home is His gift to us. I want to fight to cultivate a contented heart and accept it with all it's quirks and so called inconveniences.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all
covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his
possessions.” Luke 12:15</span></span></i><span class="p"></span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
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Alberta is the name of the woman who previously lived in this home for 50 years into her late 90's when she fell and then moved in with a family member. I never met Alberta but I feel like I know her from the little bits and pieces that the neighbors have shared about her life. I often think of Alberta when I'm tempted to upgrade an outdated feature of this home. I'll remind myself, "Alberta lived in this home until she was 98 years old without central heat and air! Now, so can you!" Or, "Alberta lived in this home without automatic sprinklers! Now, so can you for at least one more year!"<br />
<br />
She saved herself a lot of money over the years by not keeping up with the times (or the Jones's). She never had to incur a large electrical bill because her heating and air conditioning went on the blink! Or pay to have her garbage disposal fixed or replaced... because she didn't own one. The less things you own the less things need cleaning, repairs and maintenance and TIME. Alberta lived a simple life in this home. I think Alberta was a smart woman! A lot of older people live this way but rarely does our generation or our children. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcXukv53HJjbBmjEYUAz2RJAV22HCuCCF_RXpCxBRMSNZmDakLc0M_48DFyPX-jtZX8i7oqn_8J40En3qoCOad5fh_rviIHP1N9xq_KlM4lRNkuibeQtvvxVh-dDOGtrO-mpXY6oc33k/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcXukv53HJjbBmjEYUAz2RJAV22HCuCCF_RXpCxBRMSNZmDakLc0M_48DFyPX-jtZX8i7oqn_8J40En3qoCOad5fh_rviIHP1N9xq_KlM4lRNkuibeQtvvxVh-dDOGtrO-mpXY6oc33k/s1600/030.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I recently read that a<i> simple</i> life is not always a <i>contented </i>life. I've really been chewin' on that one like a dog with a bone. I've mulled it over and over in my mind and I believe that it's very true. I don't know the state of Alberta's heart. Maybe she was contented living in this 'simple' home or maybe not. It's now my choice to decide whether I will cultivate a heart attitude of thankfulness and contentment. It's a daily choice which starts with my thought life and whether I will obey God's Word. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to b<span style="font-size: small;">e content. Phil</span>. 4:11 </i></span></span><br />
<br />
So, instead of upgrading I'm focusing on maintaining what we already own. These past few months
I've worked on improving the way the grout looks on my kitchen
counter and also sealing the bathroom grout to help with the mold
problems. I look for small little projects to do that don't cost a lot
of money but help to improve the way our home is maintained. It's important to take care of what God has entrusted to me. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all <u>overgrown </u>with thorns' the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was <u>broken down</u>. Then <u>I saw and considered it</u>; <u>I looked and received instruction</u>. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and <u>poverty</u> will come upon you like a robber, and <u>want </u>like an armed man. Proverbs 24:30-34</span></span> </i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTnp3PZrwXXnwTKPcMK6pnSaTqRB3MAPNcJz2ESOZ56onY5dY-iDf_FrfYR7u_pEcSYDkQjegYKTHnEjOZiFJjvYABcU5gt0yyDnU4BD4pMN6mHNH5NA_KVuVPp9YB8lesxQc_j-TwMM/s1600/Grandma+82+birthday+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTnp3PZrwXXnwTKPcMK6pnSaTqRB3MAPNcJz2ESOZ56onY5dY-iDf_FrfYR7u_pEcSYDkQjegYKTHnEjOZiFJjvYABcU5gt0yyDnU4BD4pMN6mHNH5NA_KVuVPp9YB8lesxQc_j-TwMM/s1600/Grandma+82+birthday+007.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 'sweetheart', daughter and grandson</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know it's not a sin to upgrade and who knows but that someday we might find ourselves doing just that very thing if the need and finances present themselves. But, not for today! Today I want to enjoy my home just as it is with all it's quirks and old fashioned ways. My heart is satisfied! My heart is content!<br />
<br />
***<br />
Read about <a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A TYPICAL FRUGAL DAY</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Here are a few ways I've kept busy in my home:<br />
<br />
1. My kitchen sink is old and made of porcelain. It has chips in it that show black spots. Last year my mother bought a kit to paint the chips white. It lasted about a year but now it looks like it did before. I have a friend who accidentally spilled nail polish in her bathroom sink and couldn't get it out. So she bought 3 different colors and dabbed them all over her sink. It looked really nice. So that gave me an idea to see if I could find white nail polish to cover the black spots on my sink. I found a bottle for around $4. Guess what? It worked! I love finding ways to make things in this old house look nice and clean.<br />
<br />
2. I've been saving cooked chicken bones in my freezer and finally had enough to make some broth which I used to make a new Chicken Paleo Tortilla Soup recipe. I put the bones in my large crockpot and filled it with water and cooked it all day. After it cooked I let it sit in the fridge overnight and then skimmed off the fat. The broth was then used in this soup recipe. It was so good!<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lindawagner.net/blog/2013/11/paleo-chicken-tortilla-soup-recipe-why-you-should-cut-dairy-out-of-your-diet/index.html" target="_blank">Paleo Chicken Tortilla Soup</a></h2>
You’ll need:<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="line-height: 12.997159004211426px;">2 large chicken breasts, skin removed and cut into 1/2 inch strips (I used thighs)</span></li>
<li>1 28oz can of diced tomatoes</li>
<li>32 ounces organic chicken broth (homemade chicken broth)</li>
<li>1 sweet onion, diced (less for lower carbs)</li>
<li>2 jalepenos, de-seeded and diced</li>
<li>2 cups of shredded carrots (1 cup to lower carbs)</li>
<li>2 cups chopped celery</li>
<li>1 bunch of cilantro chopped fine</li>
<li>4 cloves of garlic, minced – I always use one of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EENF838?psc=1&tag=vglnk-c407-20" target="_blank">these</a></li>
<li>2 Tbs tomato paste</li>
<li>1 tsp chili powder</li>
<li>1 tsp cumin</li>
<li>(I added 1 tablespoon of Chicken Tortilla seasoning mix) </li>
<li>sea salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste</li>
<li>olive oil</li>
<li>1-2 cups water</li>
</ul>
In a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=crock+pot&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Acrock+pot" target="_blank">crockpot</a> or large <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dutch-Ovens-Cookware-Baking-Kitchen/b?ie=UTF8&node=289818" target="_blank">dutch oven</a> over
med-high heat, place a dash of olive oil and about 1/4 cup chicken
broth. Add onions, garlic, jalapeno, sea salt and pepper and cook until
soft, adding more broth as needed.<br />
Then add all of your remaining ingredients and enough water to fill
to the top of your pot. Cover and let cook on low for about 2 hrs,
adjusting salt & pepper as needed.<br />
Once the chicken is fully cooked, you should be able to shred it very
easily. I simply used the back of a wooden spoon and pressed the cooked
chicken against the side of the pot. You could also use a fork or tongs
to break the chicken apart and into shreds.<br />
<br />
Top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro. I added a dallop of sour cream to my husband's bowl.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyRa-WRZV4yUmoPgX7E8PIjeq_rwpr47QWTAb6itE6B27ciSRf4nvJNlTGb-OSYLO3Y2ZJd-kf_KanFyOjE7HcDJM1U4uQUUdGVytXtM1EzuvditQVi1ID1n8lDxR9hTJOvHhqcTwH9I/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyRa-WRZV4yUmoPgX7E8PIjeq_rwpr47QWTAb6itE6B27ciSRf4nvJNlTGb-OSYLO3Y2ZJd-kf_KanFyOjE7HcDJM1U4uQUUdGVytXtM1EzuvditQVi1ID1n8lDxR9hTJOvHhqcTwH9I/s1600/029.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remembering a fishing trip with some grandsons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
3. I always have a lot of cilantro left from the bunch I buy for a recipe. So, this time I froze it in an ice cube tray. I picked off the leaves and put about a tablespoon in each cube and added water. Once frozen I put the cubes in a plastic bag and wrote the name on a piece of masking tape. I do this with fresh parsley, oregano and basil from my garden, too.<br />
<br />
4. I made a batch of pie crusts and put them in the freezer for the holidays.<br />
<br />
5. We have a winter storm heading our way tomorrow so I decided it was time to prepare for winter. I put away the summer chairs and covered them with plastic. I took down the patio table umbrella and stored it in the garage. I moved the patio table under a covering to protect it this winter and covered a wooden bench with a large piece of heavy plastic. You can buy rolls of heavy plastic at hardware stores. The window air conditioners have been covered with plastic on the outside so that the cold air won't blow through them into our house. It's a bit too soon to fold up the hoses but those will be next. I also put extra blankets on our beds and on the cats and the dog beds. We're all as snug as a bug in a rug! I love making sure everyone is warm and comfortable for the winter (even my pets). <br />
<br />
6. I've been reading about 'deepening the pantry' over at <a href="http://coffeeteabooksandme.blogspot.com/2007/01/deepening-our-pantry-deepening-our.html" target="_blank">Coffee, Tea and Books</a>. It has inspired me to find ways to add to my own pantry. I added canned tuna and canned roast beef to my pantry this past month.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VST5iKHztWZxorxPx0mFjFWLZLrIFYUicNr3iWYLOO89VDWj1q9yLtQk-HDaVOB9MhukqrIOeabu0QSWrJ5CI5l9Kol4fatA7iudMYBvf7__MlKalpHbxkdsyaSVmlzcxJjjLCKlCR0/s1600/Trjstan+13+birthday+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VST5iKHztWZxorxPx0mFjFWLZLrIFYUicNr3iWYLOO89VDWj1q9yLtQk-HDaVOB9MhukqrIOeabu0QSWrJ5CI5l9Kol4fatA7iudMYBvf7__MlKalpHbxkdsyaSVmlzcxJjjLCKlCR0/s1600/Trjstan+13+birthday+013.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Grand' birthday party with CANDY BALL played to Musical Chairs. </td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
7. Since winter is coming I was able to cut back my watering time to once a week for the lawn and from 10 minutes down to 7 minutes. Oh, am I one happy girl that winter is almost here and I can take a break from hours of watering in the garden, flowers and lawn. <br />
<br />
8. I had a bumper crop of peppers this year which were grown in large pots. I looked online and discovered that I could freeze the Poblano's. I roasted them and then put them in a freezer bag once they cooled. Now my husband can enjoy Chile Rellenos throughout the winter.<br />
<br />
9. My mother and sister and I visited our favorite thrift shop. I keep an ongoing list in my purse because for the life of me I can't remember what to look for by memory. I added 'purses' to my list once I realized how expensive they have become. I was faced with spending over $30 when my last purse became worn. I figured I would keep an extra one on hand so I'm not forced to pay higher prices. I found a nice purse for $4.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Sweet times</div>
<br />
10. I made homemade mac and cheese for our family gathering. My husband requested it. He eats low carb meals in between our family gatherings so I try to make what he wants on those special occasions. I took a small bite to see how it tasted and it was good! <br />
<br />
I kept it bland since I knew the grands would be eating it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.food.com/recipeprint.do?rid=251137" target="_blank"> Kittencals Creamy Macaroni and Cheese</a></span><br />
<ul><ul>
<li>
4 cups
uncooked elbow macaroni
</li>
<li>
4 tablespoons
butter
( additional 2 tablespoons to mix with cooked pasta)
</li>
<li>
2 large
garlic cloves, minced garlic
( optional, I didn't use)
</li>
<li>
1 teaspoon
onion powder (I didn't use)
</li>
<li>
1 teaspoon
mustard powder
</li>
<li>
1/4 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
(optional)(I didn't use)
</li>
<li>
3 tablespoons
flour
</li>
<li>
3 cups
half-and-half cream
( or use milk or 1-1/2 cups each)
</li>
<li>
1 1/2 cups
old shredded cheddar cheese (I used Monterey Jack/Cheddar)
</li>
<li>
1 (16 ounce) packages
Velveeta cheese
( cut into small cubes)
</li>
<li>
salt & freshly ground black pepper
( to taste)
</li>
<li>
1/2 cup
grated parmesan cheese
(optional)(I didn't use)
</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<h2>
Directions</h2>
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.</li>
<li>Grease a medium casserole dish.</li>
<li>Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente (do not overcook the pasta) drain but do not rinse.</li>
<li>Place in a bowl and mix with 2 tablespoons butter to prevent sticking; set aside.</li>
<li>Melt 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.</li>
<li>Add in minced garlic, onion powder, mustard powder and cayenne pepper; stir with a wooden spoon for about 3-4 minutes.</li>
<li>Add in flour and stir for 1 minute.</li>
<li>Slowly add cream and cook stirring constantly over medium until bubbly and thickened. </li>
</ol>
</div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<ol start="9">
<li>Reduce heat and add in both cheeses; mix until melted and smooth.</li>
<li>Season with salt and black pepper to taste.</li>
<li>Add in the cooked pasta and toss to combine.</li>
<li>Transfer to baking dish.</li>
<li>Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes. </li>
</ol>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgd_ECbFzT1tLWaj8GbqxKx65S55N29moQk-jQx4kOHmyN8lmoIrbk4gsGG5WqnBE32LAOGL8F-YCt0oBKjai-p5SAJ4Vb_CPt1wjqxsWSB8CcLnAaqO9D66GhxuLV90YHrCV76z38ITY/s1600/Alycia+pool+party+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgd_ECbFzT1tLWaj8GbqxKx65S55N29moQk-jQx4kOHmyN8lmoIrbk4gsGG5WqnBE32LAOGL8F-YCt0oBKjai-p5SAJ4Vb_CPt1wjqxsWSB8CcLnAaqO9D66GhxuLV90YHrCV76z38ITY/s1600/Alycia+pool+party+008.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer fun with the grands</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="9">
</ol>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Saved, Stretched and Reused:</span></span></b></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I add a little bit of water to the glass before I add WHOLE milk for my husband.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I saved clean, previously used dishwater in the dish pan and used it to rinse the next load of dishes. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Twistie ties from new measuring spoons. I always save my twistie ties. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I saved the cardboard tubing from a paper towel roll. I wrap reused baggies around it. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Cardboard egg cartons along with cardboard tubing from toilet paper rolls (compost pile).</span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Cotton from the vitamin bottle (to remove fingernail polish). </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Wrapped celery in tinfoil. The celery lasts twice as long. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Bacon grease. I put it in a small jar in the fridge and use it instead of oil for flavoring when frying. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Washed and reused a LC tortilla bag.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I used 'saved' peanut oil from the last time I fried chicken. I keep it in the fridge. I can get one more frying out of it. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I saved the extra coffee by putting it in mason jars and storing in the fridge to use the next few days. We never drink an entire pot. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Saved tea bags. Three saved tea bags will make one more cup of tea. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ I've been hungry for oatmeal. I cooked some Steel Oats and divided it in 1/2 cup portions to freeze for later. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
</div>
<div class="section clrfix directions">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-size: small;">That's all for this time. Are you ladies 'deepening' your pantry? Do you have any good tips you could share? </span> </span></span><br />
<ol start="9">
</ol>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>BLESSED TO BE HOME,</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Georgene</span></i></span><br />
<br />
<br />
* Bible version used is the ESV. A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-29520881998051030942014-10-05T14:40:00.001-07:002014-10-05T18:34:34.438-07:00The Bible, books and old brains!<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am a lover of books. Not just any books...
but books that will draw my heart closer to God. I love biographies and
instructional books! It's my one weakness, as Dorcas would
say in<i> Larkrise to Candleford</i>.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Q7-rgr7oHgMVwOSg0J1OL-DamWKCwAz9LRc36h9BF62tgfhjDGR-ZTZXl9lcrHALMk680CqxifAkA5SPIKqqENdgPyfZdVThf9OFhwHoMcjkxwS62fG4sr164jpPfqKI1TJGe2URrus/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+014.JPG" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Williams are still blooming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Q7-rgr7oHgMVwOSg0J1OL-DamWKCwAz9LRc36h9BF62tgfhjDGR-ZTZXl9lcrHALMk680CqxifAkA5SPIKqqENdgPyfZdVThf9OFhwHoMcjkxwS62fG4sr164jpPfqKI1TJGe2URrus/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As
much as I love godly books, I love God's Word a hundred gazillion times more! My
heart swells when I think of the priceless value of His Word. His Word has
changed my life! Period! End of story! It just has!</span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">
</span>
<div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Every area of my life has been touched by His Word. My
marriage, my emotions, my thought life, my desires and my goals. But, far greater than what God has done in me is the treasure of learning more about <i>Him</i> through His written Word. There lies a joy that matches none else. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39sFCJBvvee-ENnekefhQat9dsHafk0eUJzJAJg7lwItKuK0gCfSHPhyISfWFE6sZsr7a0RCCKzCtEof-mp8NNcc2-6mj6UDYdfNBNh1JV9rHUzQRj5-K7Pgz4jcBJ_ip33f6n5cc8ZQ/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39sFCJBvvee-ENnekefhQat9dsHafk0eUJzJAJg7lwItKuK0gCfSHPhyISfWFE6sZsr7a0RCCKzCtEof-mp8NNcc2-6mj6UDYdfNBNh1JV9rHUzQRj5-K7Pgz4jcBJ_ip33f6n5cc8ZQ/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+009.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Broccoli plants for winter</span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">So I
am excited to share with you one of the sweetest little treasures on the
internet that is helping me <i>hide</i> God's Word in my heart. My long time
beloved friends, Kim and her husband John, have a wonderful new website called <a href="http://www.refreshingschallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">REFRESHINGS CHALLENGE. </a></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">
<div>
</div>
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Refreshings</i> are described</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> as, "... a surprisingly simple
and effective method to renew our minds and saturate our hearts with God's Word
(and other related helpful things), using condensations from</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> a repertoire of bible studies we've done, skills
we've learned, and helpful things we've condensed from other
people."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This
is how I have used their website. I picked
out specific teachings and Scriptures that I want to be reminded of on a regular
basis. I've chosen posts that apply to my life or teachings that I can use to
encourage others. After I printed these posts I placed them in
sleeve protectors and filed them in my REFRESHINGS NOTEBOOK under a category
similar to the headings she has on her webpage for each post. The notebook sits
next to my living room chair so it's convenient to pick up and REFRESH myself
daily.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgNDa8WIzYSlSo4Xk6Aq6oCz9UR44gyq1YFiHtySQ9tS3l8vN92IhyfuBINRZNIfOaGtduDbDqurhXUDyksLLsqTOaVlIlaP5wYsC6LrefSFFt37t1Bn6HQCZ6mIlDZtxpS7Gm0pY4bk/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgNDa8WIzYSlSo4Xk6Aq6oCz9UR44gyq1YFiHtySQ9tS3l8vN92IhyfuBINRZNIfOaGtduDbDqurhXUDyksLLsqTOaVlIlaP5wYsC6LrefSFFt37t1Bn6HQCZ6mIlDZtxpS7Gm0pY4bk/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+016.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raspberries are still giving fruit in my backyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I've
added other sections to my binder such as <i>The Godly Woman</i>. I need daily reminders of what Scripture says I should be doing daily with my time. I've also added Scriptures on the
sovereignty of God to encourage me during trials and suffering. Another goal for the notebook is to use it to battle weaknesses and daily temptations. </span><br />
<br />
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Learning, knowing, memorizing and teaching
God's Word is one of my greatest joys. I want God's Word to take the highest priority in my life. The<a href="http://refreshingschallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> REFRESHINGS CHALLENGE</a> is one easy way to</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> guard what I have learned in God's Word throughout the
years. This old brain needs all the help it can get. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hiN4DF7MLc2FSuiE68wBqwSt84AF19wLbq2oFePE1zo11XmmVjwsjJpEm4sSIz6ZhpBIp35t9j7TI1Jex2cyTUKzfx6tVlOIAQrYnQlZXvjkahyphenhyphen4nj-bOOc0DYrUcO831HgWNyq74Es/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hiN4DF7MLc2FSuiE68wBqwSt84AF19wLbq2oFePE1zo11XmmVjwsjJpEm4sSIz6ZhpBIp35t9j7TI1Jex2cyTUKzfx6tVlOIAQrYnQlZXvjkahyphenhyphen4nj-bOOc0DYrUcO831HgWNyq74Es/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+015.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragon Tales</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> </span>
</div>
</div>
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><i>I have
stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
<span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></i></span><span class="p"></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span></span></span><div>
<span class="p"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span></span></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><br />Let the
word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all
wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your
hearts to God</i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. Colossians 3:16 <span style="font-size: x-small;">ESV</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">***</span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A Typical Frugal Day</span></b></a><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Here's what is happenin' in my neck of the woods:</span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">1. My husband's T-Shirts are noticeably worn. I've been watching for sales but nothing has come along. I stopped in our local thrift store while the oil was being changed in the car. Lo and behold, I found 5 T-Shirts, BRAND NEW for $4.99. I had a 25% off coupon bringing the total to $2.99 a shirt. Thank you, sweet Lord! </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb72NK_HhA3Auu1B4hLokWHlk-y0HYzZgzSoSggCP8VSs9Mncs_wS5rYpBRGubwfFWxFsmorNEJGZX0KQw0Bw2z5e5LVoddLxfWsg2HctbsZjMguM9TDcEToSqG1vB2647uFcl6Iq2qns/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb72NK_HhA3Auu1B4hLokWHlk-y0HYzZgzSoSggCP8VSs9Mncs_wS5rYpBRGubwfFWxFsmorNEJGZX0KQw0Bw2z5e5LVoddLxfWsg2HctbsZjMguM9TDcEToSqG1vB2647uFcl6Iq2qns/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+006.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lettuce ready to harvest. Chicken wire to keep cats away from snail bait. </i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">2. I normally throw away the stalks of broccoli but decided to peel it and then use a grater to shred it. I added a slaw dressing along with cranberries. I had enough to use for a lunch salad from an item that normally would be thrown away. </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">3. Did you know that Nature Made vitamins has a reward program? I may have told you before. I enter the reward code on each bottle I purchase of Triple Flex from Costco. I accumulated enough rewards to receive a $7 coupon to use at Costco for Nature Made products. The coupon can also be matched with Costco's sales which could drop the price by a total of $14. </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1E3LQqtskjzpBwDHpSkXsOl9GbLadIujCGWpAN3Qd7n13JA66EPHKim2DOcXJFjYtK_eoWvwIkzNuzGAatbuOYSPCCDMA_NdErU_7KtPhyphenhyphen5ZO-NrvJc7v2T76FvilQfMCU7mFCWoP4y8/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1E3LQqtskjzpBwDHpSkXsOl9GbLadIujCGWpAN3Qd7n13JA66EPHKim2DOcXJFjYtK_eoWvwIkzNuzGAatbuOYSPCCDMA_NdErU_7KtPhyphenhyphen5ZO-NrvJc7v2T76FvilQfMCU7mFCWoP4y8/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">4. I cashed in my <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/georgene" target="_blank">Swagbucks</a> for a $25 Amazon Gift Card. Click here to learn more about <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/georgene" target="_blank">Swagbucks</a>. It's an easy way to make money by doing online searches. </span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">5. I read about an idea to line your fridge shelves with placemats but decided to buy the plastic shelf paper that does not have a sticky back. My mother has always lined her fridge shelves with tinfoil but it's an expensive habit because eventually the tinfoil tears apart after multiple cleanings. This shelf paper (it's made of a rubber type of material) can be washed and should hold up indefinitely. My shelves look so nice and clean. </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZnPfNr_fWEmVG_-Jy20rhkGF6oXaWlXj4vF1_b09DaGptCnbRo1QrVFMsd8FJgqv2oCwkY7Hbtc1QR8-zEAa37C1s8uI2lllqf43gr8s2hLsv-RdnMYjB5ijzn-BsxyjjS-XfAPk3Z4/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZnPfNr_fWEmVG_-Jy20rhkGF6oXaWlXj4vF1_b09DaGptCnbRo1QrVFMsd8FJgqv2oCwkY7Hbtc1QR8-zEAa37C1s8uI2lllqf43gr8s2hLsv-RdnMYjB5ijzn-BsxyjjS-XfAPk3Z4/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Shelf paper lining fridge shelves</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">6. I'm saving cooked chicken bones in a freezer bag to make broth. </span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">7. I live in my aprons. I have a few nice aprons and a few </span><span style="font-size: large;">'not so nice'</span><span style="font-size: large;"> aprons. I rotate my aprons as they get stained and worn. I keep a very worn apron in the garage to wear in the garden. Aprons save my clothes from spots and tears. I love my aprons!</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">8. My house was built in the early 1900's and I think the kitchen grout is probably as old. Maybe not but it sure looks old and dirty. I've tried several cleaners but nothing has worked. I found a tile renewal product/sealer at Home Depot by Polyblend called, Grout Renew. It comes in different colors. It painted and sealed the ugly grout on my kitchen counters and it looks almost like new. So happy with it! It cost less than $15. I used a fine tipped paintbrush instead of the recommended toothbrush. </span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSPqgk4wIUKuvlxoLa0eEsuMx5bJDIXMfkHv2oyvdMwhtr6BG0ZurNKtLcHacSqG_clNhzcBiNmprMG5F4Vu-4lk88R10GA9FgqYy6ewsGjEMMbMxFOTY5BqBgRnFIJBs9y00IO9QlEQ/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSPqgk4wIUKuvlxoLa0eEsuMx5bJDIXMfkHv2oyvdMwhtr6BG0ZurNKtLcHacSqG_clNhzcBiNmprMG5F4Vu-4lk88R10GA9FgqYy6ewsGjEMMbMxFOTY5BqBgRnFIJBs9y00IO9QlEQ/s1600/blog+2014+pictures+003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">9. My mom and neighbor lady save their newspapers for me. I've started using coupons again to help offset rising food prices. I visit <a href="http://www.couponmom.com/" target="_blank">Coupon Mom </a>on Sundays to see if there are any good deals for the week. Last week I was able to get cold meds for .99 cents. </span></i></span><br />
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<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">10. I used the library instead of buying a book that had been recommended to me. </span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<u><b><span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Saved, Stretched & Re-used!</span></i></span></b></u><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- banana peels (buried around my rose bushes)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- coffee grinds (buried around my rose bushes) </span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- tin can tops (put in a bucket with water to make a fertilizer tea for grapes and hydrangea)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- dog food can (washed out and used to pour grease into rather than down the sink).</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- egg shells, fruit & veggie peelings (compost pile)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- tea bags (saved in fridge, 3 used for new cup of tea and then thrown in the compost pile)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- LC tortilla bag, cranberry bag, broccoli bag,etc. (washed and reused as a baggie)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- Rubber band off of radishes and broccoli (washed and reused)</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">- Hair from vacuum (compost) </span></i></span><br />
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<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">That's all for this time. What are you ladies doing in your homes? Are you getting ready for winter? I've started pulling out my blankets and heaters to make sure they're in good condition.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home,</span></i></span><br />
<span class="p"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />Geogene</span></i></span></div>
</span>A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-5703010763747305052014-09-14T16:43:00.001-07:002014-09-14T16:43:59.627-07:00Husbands, Submission and BudgetsMy husband and I have taken turns handling the finances throughout our marriage. I've been handling them for the past 10 plus years. I began handling the finances when he started having health issues. It was one way I could help take the pressure off of him.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4uc1vJgYjZQGUe-U471KKG03BoRhQhyxq_zmmJBnzCczklndvL6RUS09eyB7HCP1E2g1p2FTK6JArAgHSij7KJ-nSeoHFiye2pq2MyCYiQvSCFumsPbHNjXbQd0lELH6vb78POuXT3I/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4uc1vJgYjZQGUe-U471KKG03BoRhQhyxq_zmmJBnzCczklndvL6RUS09eyB7HCP1E2g1p2FTK6JArAgHSij7KJ-nSeoHFiye2pq2MyCYiQvSCFumsPbHNjXbQd0lELH6vb78POuXT3I/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+002.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Dragon Tales" by the driveway in my front yard</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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I've learned a lot about my own heart since I've been handling our finances. One challenge is to remember that it's not 'my' budget BUT 'our' budget. My husband does not want to be involved in most of the budget making or decision but I acknowledge that I am acting on his behalf as his helpmate. Budget making and keeping is only one of many ways I can fulfill my God ordained role as his helper.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”<span class="p"> Genesis 2:18 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span></b></i></span><br />
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Here is where I have to watch my heart: A few years ago he said it would be nice to have a cup of Earl Grey tea or some coffee in the morning. He didn't demand it or insist. He just made a comment. Sadly, my first response <i>to myself</i> was, 'Doesn't he realize how hard it is to stay within my budget and yet he wants me to add one more thing?!' But, I wanted to meet his needs (and even wishes) so I set out to find the best prices. <br />
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Thankfully, the Lord does not leave me in the muck and mire of my own selfishness and begins His gentle process of revealing the truth of what is going on in my heart. Eventually, it was brought to my remembrance that I spend money on food items that are not essential. How many times do I pick up a a small bag of nuts at the check out counter? Or grab an item off the dollar menu for lunch while shopping? Or even spend money on low carb treats? My husband never holds me accountable for these small expenditures. He gives me more grace than I give him at times. So now...<br />
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The Lord is helping me to see my husband's requests (and even his wishes) as an opportunity to bless him. Now, I find myself looking forward to the joy it brings him.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR8-PBGzyWxs3AiN1xYgB45BPexwIY6YobJiFWxaCNsXnOmXprpP8ess8Bgw_v2V7NA-jRJcDleGbCa0Yxiv0KfN2UYo6pKC0In_edMz8r0NxXsU0oMH9f1Kl5KswNPTc_0qtAPHcOpQ/s1600/grands+sleepover+sept+2014+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR8-PBGzyWxs3AiN1xYgB45BPexwIY6YobJiFWxaCNsXnOmXprpP8ess8Bgw_v2V7NA-jRJcDleGbCa0Yxiv0KfN2UYo6pKC0In_edMz8r0NxXsU0oMH9f1Kl5KswNPTc_0qtAPHcOpQ/s1600/grands+sleepover+sept+2014+006.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti squash and baking pumpkin from our garden</td></tr>
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One night around 10:30 pm he said, "I'm craving a frosty from Wendy's". My first response (to myself) was that <i>we shouldn't be spending the money</i> and secondly <i>we shouldn't be eating that much sugar</i>. But, thankfully the Lord gave me grace and the words that came out of my mouth were... LET'S GO! And you know what? We had so much fun and made a special memory that night. It was so 'out of the ordinary' that it filled us both with joy looking at all the other 'crazies' who were out late at night. We chatted on the drive over to Wendy's and thoroughly enjoyed our time together.<br />
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And guess what? We made it through the month without going in the hole financially! Imagine!<br />
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How often has God given me something I've longed for... something unnecessary... something other than the norm? And how much joy did it bring to my heart? And oh how I rejoiced knowing He cared enough to bless me! I've shared many of those blessings with you over these past years. I'm allowed this same privilege and joy when I look for opportunities to bless my husband and those I love. <br />
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What joy is found in bringing joy to others!<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"> ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.' Acts 20:35</span></b></i><br />
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<i> *Note* I don't want you to think I'm ALWAYS so self-controlled because there have been times I have voiced my concerns to him. I
don't think it's always wrong to do so. Much depends on our motives. Sometimes, it can even be wise to speak up because
possibly our husbands have missed seeing a consequence that we can see
clearly. But, I'm talking here about a very small expense that would
bring him some joy and comfort to his heart in the mornings. </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68i8Qz93ARVgk5Swz62-J3Y0lz7k3doAp8xgiktUBZSWY9ZlGLzg8YVZI1DKMBVz2ZB4G0mllJwzvGIEsBg91A3RST8uYlrh2zk2JCh1az8zd5cyQUi5vsjOvbo_CJFFipESD8ZtqngI/s1600/rose-icon.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Click here to see <a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A TYPICAL FRUGAL DAY</a></span><br />
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1. I can save the most money by finding ways to stretch my grocery money. I keep praying for God's help and trying new things. I went back to using a designated 'leftover shelf' in my fridge. That way I have one place to look and see what needs to be used up before it goes bad. I continue to throw many of my leftovers into the freezer,too. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJu34CIqI2hiLQ1k1-eztmDQpKhAR_jLxdtyWXZfqqC5d8SgWdfulCDjEqIIT_QO_YIcF3ch6RQ7nQZHqyZaV5rRML3TV7-NApwwaTAuwv33hum_1Usp5URnv83zyphqzxyCF1-j8LRE/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJu34CIqI2hiLQ1k1-eztmDQpKhAR_jLxdtyWXZfqqC5d8SgWdfulCDjEqIIT_QO_YIcF3ch6RQ7nQZHqyZaV5rRML3TV7-NApwwaTAuwv33hum_1Usp5URnv83zyphqzxyCF1-j8LRE/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+004.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I put snail bait around my lettuce and chicken wire over the top so the animals stay out. </td></tr>
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2. I'm trying a new homemade laundry detergent recipe that is dry instead of liquid. I've been making liquid detergent for more than 8 years and I always dread making it. I don't know why because it doesn't take long once I actually do it. But, the dry recipe was so simple and I like the fact that I don't have to heat anything on the stove. So far it seems to work as well as The Duggar's laundry soap recipe. I have found this recipe in quite a few places on the web:<br />
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<b>You will need:</b><br />
5 gallon bucket with a tight lid<br />
1 box of Borax (4 lb. 12 oz)<br />
1 3.7 lb. box Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda <br />
1 4lb. box Arm & Hammer Baking Soda (Now I'm wondering if I used this???? )<br />
2 bars Fells Naptha Soap (grated)<br />
1 3lb. container Oxiclean Versatile Stain Remover (I only used a 1 lb. container)<br />
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Use gloves and a mask and stir together and put into 5 gallon bucket. I use 1 tablespoon for average loads and 2 tablespoons for extra dirty loads. <br />
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3. Grocery prices continue to rise and I am looking for more ways to cut back. I had freezer bags on my shopping list but as I started to throw them in my cart I decided this was one area I could cut back. I have a drawer full of washed storage bags so I'm going to use those instead. They are not as convenient because I have to use a twist tie and you can't see through them but I've found if I use permanent marker on masking tape to mark the package then they work fine. A penny saved...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT1O74Q_SU_1wKP_9k39KfMOYysTg-GIsinb7H62rHsWG4AebMPO3aebQ1ZqJVcPBeswMB9FyRDAV2eSQ2Q_tKbNVAQ1GcunA58OHflWC7OHgk1Pg-EjUoYyilPqG4F8C_hAPvkx2M7c/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT1O74Q_SU_1wKP_9k39KfMOYysTg-GIsinb7H62rHsWG4AebMPO3aebQ1ZqJVcPBeswMB9FyRDAV2eSQ2Q_tKbNVAQ1GcunA58OHflWC7OHgk1Pg-EjUoYyilPqG4F8C_hAPvkx2M7c/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+005.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of Habanero peppers that will end up in soups this winter!</td></tr>
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4. I got a notice in the mail that our electric bill would be increasing by 10% which will mean a $10- $15 dollar increase. I'm always working on keeping my electric bill low but I want my husband to be comfortable so he controls the window air conditioners or heaters. But, I can work on the water usage to save some money. I've written about how I save the first of the water from the faucet while I'm waiting for it to turn hot. I started filling up gallon jugs with the cold water and then placed them next to the lettuce on my back porch step so I wouldn't have to water them with the hose. I'm also using the jugs to water the new vegetable seedlings. <br />
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5. I needed Cajun seasoning for a new fish recipe but I didn't want to spend money on buying a new spice. I checked one of my favorite recipe sites <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Simple-Cajun-Seasoning/" target="_blank">ALL RECIPES</a> and found this one:<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Simple Cajun Seasoning</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 1/2 TBSP. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TBSP. dried oregano</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TBSP. paprika</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TBSP. cayenne pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TBSP. black pepper </div>
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6. Shopping once a week (and sometimes every other week) works best to stay within my grocery budget. I know once a month shopping works great for so many people but I just can't seem to make it work for my budget. This month I bought one large package of meat each week and all of them were under $2 a pound except the hamburger which was $3 a pound. I found that spreading the purchase of the meat over the month helped me not overspend weekly. I'm also using less hamburger since it's more expensive than chicken and pork.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0kXvnbc-f6yMdgO6IPi7qsiuMykz1IQwCFEQMyrGRe2rSMlqk-BgV8fStqWTlHC911YCJG0g1l-bRYflEW_YvJtkKh5hyphenhyphenF3ypWsQsOxP-ExgedDobsbclkm8Op8ukqrhE5tli-hkMWY/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0kXvnbc-f6yMdgO6IPi7qsiuMykz1IQwCFEQMyrGRe2rSMlqk-BgV8fStqWTlHC911YCJG0g1l-bRYflEW_YvJtkKh5hyphenhyphenF3ypWsQsOxP-ExgedDobsbclkm8Op8ukqrhE5tli-hkMWY/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+009.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few 'winter' veggies of broccoli and cauliflower are going in the ground. </td></tr>
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7. I bought some hot dogs for .50 a package. I know they are not the healthiest meat out there but .50 a pound is too tempting to pass up. I made a recipe I loved as a child. Mother used to put it over rice but I skipped the rice it since I'm low carbing. I don't have a name for it.<br />
<br />
4-6 hot dogs or 1 can of Spam or 8 oz. of baloney<br />
2 tbsp. oil<br />
4 lrg carrots (I used only 2 to keep carbs down)<br />
2-3 stalks of celery<br />
1 onion (I used 1/2 an onion)<br />
Garlic powder, salt and pepper<br />
Cooked rice (I omitted)<br />
<br />
Heat oil. Add veggies and stir fry for 5 minutes. Cut hot dogs in nice size chunks. Add to skillet and saute until brown. Add 2-3 tbsp. water to skillet and stir quickly. 4 servings.<br />
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You can also add 2-3 cups of finely sliced cabbage instead of rice. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaV2fZWYBYGcZYuULtYn_qz_0vUONYhdwIcYudAkt_kxEH-_qmRldZ6qFDntEf0LLECQEUsFd5SV-tXYa6PI2a6a919H4s0dZDN_DG28mui1voIlD8kQGVS8lEA757Mt40zhSBH2UbvDU/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaV2fZWYBYGcZYuULtYn_qz_0vUONYhdwIcYudAkt_kxEH-_qmRldZ6qFDntEf0LLECQEUsFd5SV-tXYa6PI2a6a919H4s0dZDN_DG28mui1voIlD8kQGVS8lEA757Mt40zhSBH2UbvDU/s1600/Blog+pictures+flowers+007.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter veggie seedlings</td></tr>
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8. If I'm not 'praying as I shop' then I'm often tempted to toss items
into my cart that are not on my shopping list. So, I've tried to make
it a habit to stop and review what is in my cart before I get to the
check out counter. I ask myself if I can get by without any of the items
in my cart. More times than not I'm able to pull one or two items from
the cart. This practice gives me a little time between <i>wanting of the item</i>
(lust of the flesh) <b>and</b> being able to <i>think objectively </i>about it. <br />
<br />
9. My 'Snoopy' cat loves to sleep on the top of my couch and look out the front window. He watches the other cats in the neighborhood. We call it his 'kitty tv'. :-) His hair gets on the curtain and normally I will use a 'tape brush' to clean off the hair. But, I noticed the curtain was looking dirty. The curtains have to be dry cleaned, which is expensive, so I tried to spot clean it instead. I had some upholstery and fabric spray cleaner that I used by gently rubbing it into the curtains with a wet rag. It worked great and saved me a lot of money.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG6dtUZQWdpGUN0HDl47-dii65vsT-fTEWukbrV0DQFVegjSe85_gAPJk0lnwVGbT0Bx7zkWjCJhheOtyxyUHLYPnQonVb6-azGH9sYWMLfzPKtSSC2KBp8Fu00G9CBPnLQgxtGDxoUI/s1600/grands+sleepover+sept+2014+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG6dtUZQWdpGUN0HDl47-dii65vsT-fTEWukbrV0DQFVegjSe85_gAPJk0lnwVGbT0Bx7zkWjCJhheOtyxyUHLYPnQonVb6-azGH9sYWMLfzPKtSSC2KBp8Fu00G9CBPnLQgxtGDxoUI/s1600/grands+sleepover+sept+2014+001.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snoopy keeping an eye on the neighborhood!</td></tr>
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10. Occasionally, I will purchase a product my husband and I don't care for. A lot of times I can use a small amount of the product mixed in with a another product we <i>do</i> like and it's not noticeable. That way I don't waste money by throwing it away. I have some cinnamon coffee that my husband doesn't like so I use 1 tablespoon mixed in with 2 tablespoons of his regular coffee.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Items I didn't throw away:</span></i><br />
- Low carb tortilla bag with zipper (washed and reused as a storage bag)<br />
- tea bags (saved in a container in the fridge. 3 bags are reused for 1 cup of tea)<br />
- candy bags (washed and reused as baggies)<br />
- toilet paper rolls (torn up into small pieces and put into compost)<br />
- Outdated paperwork (torn and put into compost)<br />
- cotton from vitamin jar (used to remove nail polish)<br />
- plastic grocery bags (lining for kitchen garbage can)<br />
- tin can tops from dog food (I put these in a small bucket in the garden with water. Then use the rust<br />
water to fertilize my grapes or roses). <br />
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Well, that's it for this week! Be sure to check out 'A Frugal Day' at the beginning of this list for my daily frugal routine.<br />
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What are you ladies doing in your homes this week? I love learning from you!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessed to be home!<br /><br /><i>Georgene</i></span><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-10710704082771398942014-08-31T17:56:00.003-07:002021-04-22T05:59:25.663-07:00Temptations that Defeat Frugality<span style="font-size: large;">There are many reasons people practice frugality. Some reasons may include: saving for a new home or car, living on one income, retirement, giving to those in need, or Christian education. And, there can be just as many temptations that sidetrack us from those goals. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUta1_zNyPbOwhx_elc9tM8Pmn8BmKK3N7x09axEVIxq56NBgHVYypZhgyexWYxFf2oHtB-3ionc_KdIIdXk_RfV5mEMuNLKgETGSbvSwi5Ava-jyV6arYT_D9UGVaUCaYS1JkZRN2Q6g/s1600/august+2014+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUta1_zNyPbOwhx_elc9tM8Pmn8BmKK3N7x09axEVIxq56NBgHVYypZhgyexWYxFf2oHtB-3ionc_KdIIdXk_RfV5mEMuNLKgETGSbvSwi5Ava-jyV6arYT_D9UGVaUCaYS1JkZRN2Q6g/s1600/august+2014+003.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Blue Dawn" morning glories!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have several reasons I practice frugality. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I find it helps me fight temptation if I remember what my goals are. </span>Mainly, I want to be a good steward of the resources the Lord has entrusted to me. Secondly, it enables me to stay at home with my husband. Thirdly, if I can save money by living below our means then I have money to give to others in need...which will lay up treasures in heaven. (Matthew 6) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's important to keep those reasons at the front of my mind because it's so easy to be influenced by the temptations that bombard me daily through television, magazines and the stores advertising strategies. I pray regularly while shopping because I can feel the <i>pull </i>of all the enticing goodies as I walk up the store aisles. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the most dangerous threats to my goals for frugality is the 'pride of life'. I've been battling it this past week:</span><br />
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<i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of
the eyes and <b>pride of life</b>—is not from the Father but is from the
world. 1 John 2:16 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>(The NET BIBLE translates pride of life as '</i><i><i></i></i></span>arrogance produced by material possessions').<br />
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<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Wesley Commentary was very helpful in explaining what it means: <span class="p"><br /></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>"The pride of life</b>
- All that pomp in clothes, houses, furniture, equipage, manner of
living, which generally procure honour from the bulk of mankind, and so
gratify pride and vanity. It therefore directly includes the desire of
praise, and, remotely, covetousness. All these desires are not from God,
but from the prince of this world.<b>" </b></i> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KE4R_gJ3b8-0yfvQKhrJXq9zRJ67Mcjyt6jaiEhkbnX7EZc1cFgjwKQ8xlft6Tuy7xXNZaTisAh-eahz7ChQrfnj63F1OdIm_ysGOUw8W-OjQRMcHor1WJ5y1UFyrHFiNtWtaaB_I_8/s1600/august+2014+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KE4R_gJ3b8-0yfvQKhrJXq9zRJ67Mcjyt6jaiEhkbnX7EZc1cFgjwKQ8xlft6Tuy7xXNZaTisAh-eahz7ChQrfnj63F1OdIm_ysGOUw8W-OjQRMcHor1WJ5y1UFyrHFiNtWtaaB_I_8/s1600/august+2014+001.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is nothing wrong with making our homes comfortable or attractive. But, I get into trouble when I use the things of this world to promote myself or to be accepted by others. Then my focus is not on serving but on having others serve me by promoting my reputation. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Say for instance, I'd like to invite a new couple from church over for dinner. But, I find out they both work and make a good income and now I'm starting to hesitate inviting them because they live in a higher income neighborhood and drive newer cars. I start to compare what I own to what they own. I drive a 1998 Ford Ranger (that squeaks horribly) and live in a lower income neighborhood in a 745 sq. ft. home. This is where the downward sin cycle begins if I don't get control of my thoughts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Comparison is a thief, stealing gratitude, joy, and generosity." Jeff Manion</i></span></span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I begin to wonder if they will judge me by how I live (fear of man). If left unchecked this fear can lead to buying unnecessary items like a new bedspread or new dishes and if entertained for too long it could even lead to moving to a more expensive neighborhood in order to impress others or buying a new car. All of these choices will lead me farther away from my goals of frugality. These choices could also reveal a heart that is set on the things of this world and not on <i>things above</i>. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHy_hc9zOfUKig7b8jbbLQinSX2vMe-lS2hjb3OlycnmbM0NSmj2bwdy_etnzNZM1EmFsB6tbSbQOpXflLoQr6BUKZ_REUf0x9cdAYdfJnQO2QgXGTH2sVCmLP7tUYShC_umZHZot31Bs/s1600/audree+grandma+smith.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHy_hc9zOfUKig7b8jbbLQinSX2vMe-lS2hjb3OlycnmbM0NSmj2bwdy_etnzNZM1EmFsB6tbSbQOpXflLoQr6BUKZ_REUf0x9cdAYdfJnQO2QgXGTH2sVCmLP7tUYShC_umZHZot31Bs/s1600/audree+grandma+smith.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer birthdays!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I need to remind myself that </span><span style="font-size: large;">my worth does not come from what I own ... but by WHO owns me!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><i>Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own."</i><span class="p"> <span style="font-size: small;"> Luke 12:15</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">NLT</span></span></span> </span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Y</i></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>ou were bought with a price. </i></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 Corinthians 7:23 </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> NIV</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead, I should be rejoicing with those who rejoice<span style="font-size: small;"> (Romans 12:15)</span> for the special gifts God has given them (just as He has blessed me!). My mind should be set on how I can best serve them and make them comfortable while visiting. How can I help them to feel loved and valued while in my home? What can I cook for them that they will enjoy? How can I focus on them while we are talking so I can find out more about their lives and know better how to pray for them? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Trying to impress others by what we own will never bear good fruit. It only serves as a means to enslave us to the fear of man and certainly will not help us reach the goals that we've set to live with less FOR A PURPOSE. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Blessed to be home,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Georgene </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Do you ever struggle with the desire to impress others by what you own? Or do you sometimes feel 'lesser than' because you don't own what others do? Do you find it's a trap for you to spend more money?</i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8P-UChx2taApnbV7no-qtABmPilcKSPdiLm5Jq_WBtdBzcu_Kk1iXIy-tfOPqrRbWRpbQjnr5LFfyRefkIjGz6UJnveZWBaNG-UaZmftS82FMf5HzJQ0v-T-KXXfBElIdoeIAePYlQU/s1600/Trjstans+surprise+visit+2014+081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8P-UChx2taApnbV7no-qtABmPilcKSPdiLm5Jq_WBtdBzcu_Kk1iXIy-tfOPqrRbWRpbQjnr5LFfyRefkIjGz6UJnveZWBaNG-UaZmftS82FMf5HzJQ0v-T-KXXfBElIdoeIAePYlQU/s1600/Trjstans+surprise+visit+2014+081.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More summer gatherings</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">***</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. I get upset with myself when I waste food. I found some small containers at the dollar store that I'm using for leftovers. This past month I tried to freeze more and more of our leftovers so that I wouldn't take a chance of losing any of them to 'forgetfulness'. I am practicing putting leftovers IMMEDIATELY into the freezer instead of leaving them in the fridge. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Bacon was on sale this week so I bought a package for my husband. He loves bacon. I normally buy turkey bacon at the dollar store because I don't like spending $4 for one pound of 'breakfast' food but every once in a while I like to surprise my husband. I save the grease and use it for sauteing vegetables. This time I poured some of it into my salad dressing for flavoring. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgissAS0NilaBdkPWofBc9GkNvhYlua2GibbUuUj1JBtgv4NhOm4RCVjoNZPEO6kJPvVLteaZMZZlQ4u83CGpvUEtNOk5zMb3reiH6q5gKQebeXA8bZIzVsqFyV6ZJNvGsNqswOKNMKn3g/s1600/august+2014+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgissAS0NilaBdkPWofBc9GkNvhYlua2GibbUuUj1JBtgv4NhOm4RCVjoNZPEO6kJPvVLteaZMZZlQ4u83CGpvUEtNOk5zMb3reiH6q5gKQebeXA8bZIzVsqFyV6ZJNvGsNqswOKNMKn3g/s1600/august+2014+006.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter veggies </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. I love to cook and really love to bake and even though I enjoy </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">the rhythm of washing dishes I sometimes get tired of doing it 3 times a day. An elderly friend told me that she runs a pan of hot soapy water before she starts cooking and washes as she cooks. I'm sure many of you already practice this but it was news to me. What a difference it makes! I'm almost done with my dishes before I've finished the meal. I try to make it a game and set a goal for myself. I'm easily entertained! :-) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. God spoils me! He really does! I can't count how many times I have thought to myself that I need 'this or that' and God has answered that 'thought' in such an amazing way. I have a pair of garden clippers that are broken but still work so I haven't wanted to spend money on a new pair. Amazingly enough a GOOD pair of clippers were found in the middle of the road while driving the other day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. I'm trying to use chicken more for my meals since it's so inexpensive. I've been searching the internet for new recipes. I've tried quite a few of Pioneer Woman's recipes and they've always turned out great. I tried a new recipe called Chicken and Beef Fajitas and we really liked them. They were extremely flavorful and spicy. I let them marinade overnight. Here is the link: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-and-beef-fajitas.html" target="_blank">Chicken and Beef Fajitas by Dee Rummond</a> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. I use hairspray and it caked on to my curling iron to where my hair was sticking when I tried to curl it. While my curling iron was still hot (and unplugged) I sprayed oven cleaner on the barrel and let it sit for about 10 minutes. I then took an SOS and scrubbed off the hairspray. Good as new!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49KOnGBAprqikvy3CgyH6mhtDVjD6K7B7WyH701eceWTTTcDtUl8a8QtTDKtnJs-Zn2qi-UG5JKSFFd49QAHclHAiFO-juFHNtUKG4HrQ1Jd4icnJUaap1D4tNcudLGprdk0aBI_tySo/s1600/grands+trjstan+2014+june+birthdays+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49KOnGBAprqikvy3CgyH6mhtDVjD6K7B7WyH701eceWTTTcDtUl8a8QtTDKtnJs-Zn2qi-UG5JKSFFd49QAHclHAiFO-juFHNtUKG4HrQ1Jd4icnJUaap1D4tNcudLGprdk0aBI_tySo/s1600/grands+trjstan+2014+june+birthdays+030.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watermelon from our garden! It was wonderful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">7. The price of meat continues to rise. I spent a few extra minutes at the meat aisle the other day to see if I could find any cheaper cuts of meat. I try to keep it under $1.99 a pound but lately that is becoming impossible unless I buy chicken. I was thrilled to find a family pack of ribs for $1.99 a pound. The entire package was under $10. It will feed us for 3 days. Buying in bulk can save money. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">8. My shower tiles baffle me! They are old and I fight mold in the grout. I tried a new homemade shower cleaner that I liked. I warmed 1 cup of white vinegar and then put it in a spray bottle. I added 1 cup of Dawn (blue) detergent and then shook the bottle. I sprayed it evenly over the tiles and let it sit for 2 hours. Then I scrubbed the tiles. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">9. I have a "FLYLADY" notebook for my housekeeping schedule that I've used for years. I decided to add more dividers for: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Company (Favorite meals for visiting guests)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Gardening (homemade bug repellants and fertilizers, etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Household Products (Product numbers for items such as refrigerator filters, spa chemicals,etc. and where to buy them and the price). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm getting to 'that' age where I am more forgetful plus it helps to have a place to keep these details. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. Things I saved this month:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Plastic packaging for: brownies, brown sugar, pinto bean bag </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> (washed and reused as storage bags)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Cotton inside my vitamin bottle. (I used it to take off my </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> old fingernail polish.) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Vegetable trimmings and peelings (compost)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Tea bags (I use 3 used teabags to make 1 cup of tea)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - A T-shirt that was worn out. (dust rag)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Past income tax paperwork (shredded and put in compost pile)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Tinfoil not used on dairy or meat. (washed and reused). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> - Low carb tortilla bag that had a nice little ziplock. (washed </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> and reuse as a storage bag). </span><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609957991100287914.post-68155688086254287212014-07-27T18:52:00.004-07:002014-07-28T09:29:03.290-07:00Keeping the home vs. not staying home<br />
I was a lazy, young bride. I really had no ambition for housework but only to visit friends and enjoy life. I did the bare essentials around the apartment and then out the door I went to visit and play the rest of the day. I remember the first time my mother visited my apartment and found dishes unwashed from 2 days worth of meals. She was so upset with me and said if she ever came back and found my home in that shape it would be the last time she visited. That was a long time ago and thankfully she never found my kitchen in that shape again but her words left a lasting impression on me. <br />
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I'm not sure when things changed but I do know WHY things changed. God's Word became important to me. I learned that I could bring Him glory by HOW I lived my life.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So, whether you eat or drink </span></span></span></b><nobr></nobr><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God</b>.</span></span> </span>1 Corinthians 10:31 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span><br />
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God was doing a work in my heart through His Word. The more I learned in His Word the more my priorities changed. My husband, children and my home started to take a higher priority than friends and having fun. Priorities began to shift and I found that my marriage improved and my home life became more peaceful and less hectic. </div>
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Boy, has it been a long, hard road of learning how to keep a home and I still to this day have not perfected it. But, there has been a lot of improvement over the years. I continue to ask the Lord for help often throughout the week. I ask that He guide my steps and show me what HE wants done next. I get overwhelmed at times but it always disappears when I turn to Him for His counsel.<br />
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I found the more I let go of activities outside my home the more time I had for the work God had given me at home. Laundry was done on time. Meals were served at a decent time. The house was never perfect but someone could drop by unannounced and I could answer the door and not hide pretending I wasn't home. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1tlWk6UGOzmJZZXxXtoXCbJtZ420D8OOI8Da4uEFxH-ZK72GhMmKKkNUKuAhMXpS_Ek-r8qfdp09cakk20331awyKBQ1ZHlcJjS9Nc4uwafMj10RakKkcLTx941Cnc68Rcvwfzu7lnk/s1600/July+2014+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1tlWk6UGOzmJZZXxXtoXCbJtZ420D8OOI8Da4uEFxH-ZK72GhMmKKkNUKuAhMXpS_Ek-r8qfdp09cakk20331awyKBQ1ZHlcJjS9Nc4uwafMj10RakKkcLTx941Cnc68Rcvwfzu7lnk/s1600/July+2014+014.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My outside 'canning' station</td></tr>
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<br />
I still have to be careful to keep my priorities in order as an older, middle aged keeper at home. I don't always succeed. I'm still learning even at this season of life. Today's temptations are not visiting friends as much as helping and serving other people or volunteering at my church. These are 'good things' and important <i>good works</i> but can easily leave my husband in second place and my housework in disarray if I'm not careful. Many 'good things' can become a hindrance to caring for your family's needs. Regularly asking my husband's opinion on my schedule is a safeguard that I'm thankful for. I don't always like his answer but I continually see the good fruit that comes from adapting to his wishes. We, as wives, often think we are doing what's best for our families but if our husband thinks differently then we are not obeying God's Word which says to submit or adapt to our own husbands. <br />
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My husband still likes it when I take care of business at home FIRST before I make it a habit of being gone too much helping others. I don't think there are many husband's who like coming home to a wife who has been gone all day and a dirty house and no clean laundry in the drawers. Some may never say anything for fear of causing a fight. And I’d imagine there are a few children who
would be ashamed secretly to bring their friends home to a dirty house. Loving our husband and children more than ourselves is obeying God's command and putting their needs above our own.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"></span><span class="text Phil-2-3" id="en-ESV-29378"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b><span style="color: red;">Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.</span></b> </span> Philippians 2:3 ESV</span> <br />
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It may seem impossible to change but we know that nothing is impossible when God's involved. Yes, change takes time but as we renew our minds in God's Word the Holy Spirit begins to work in our hearts and gives us the grace we need to make these changes. Doesn't that bring hope? Don't allow condemnation to rule right now. Find hope in knowing that God's grace is bigger than our sin and that HE will finish the work He has started in us. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun80oqtuGfLA54lBO99NX_u8maYUw-00WXe262XskBd_IV8BEc4m9W52z3MKw17kld2ZS_KDJRV1vVOUZ1I3QBpLMYSe09Q8JVAqQtwK315qJZP1_s-WCQleQHjhMrN3O41kNWd-L2aM/s1600/July+2014+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun80oqtuGfLA54lBO99NX_u8maYUw-00WXe262XskBd_IV8BEc4m9W52z3MKw17kld2ZS_KDJRV1vVOUZ1I3QBpLMYSe09Q8JVAqQtwK315qJZP1_s-WCQleQHjhMrN3O41kNWd-L2aM/s1600/July+2014+002.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby loves artichokes!</td></tr>
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Here are a few really good Scriptures to encourage us in our work at home:<br />
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<span class="note"></span><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work,
but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.</span> </span></b> 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: red;"><b>Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.</b></span> </span> Proverbs 12:11 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV<span class="note"></span> </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">To be self-controlled, pure, </span></span></b><nobr><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">working at home</span></span></b></nobr><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the </span></span></b><nobr><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">word of God</span></span></b></nobr><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b><span style="color: red;"> may not be reviled.</span></b> <span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Titus 2:5 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b>
</b></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: red;"><b>Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men</b></span>, <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Colossians 3:23 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Through sloth the roof sinks in, and through indolence the house leaks</span>.</b></span> Ecclesiastes 10:18 <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> <span class="note"></span> </span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man
lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground
was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw
and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a
little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will
come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man</span>. </b></span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Proverbs 24:30-34</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">ESV</span><br />
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***<br />
<br />
Here is what has been happenin' around my neck of the woods: <br />
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<a href="http://www.awomanthatfearsthelord.com/2013/08/a-typical-frugal-day.html" target="_blank">A Typical Frugal Day</a><br />
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1. I've had an abundance of cucumbers from my garden. My
favorite salad is cucumbers, tomatoes with red onion and a homemade
Italian dressing. I also made 13 jars of fermented pickles and 7 jars of
old fashioned butter pickles. Also, a friend suggested putting a spear
of cucumber in a glass of water in the fridge. Oh my! What a treat! I never drank so much water in one day
before, but this gives the water
such a clean, refreshing taste I can’t resist. I want to try a sprig of mint in a glass of water next.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Jkmt6-Pk5Unf4IbSy6c4TPu2KUOIdKVAzN8GdHe66ipNQ0yuhTsFCP1opn1uSnMr0QXKoiQ9QnovGnNVymVkkEmaXAuZ0emWCfyf_vIAyx2cmddGBjQ8401AklZCw_JetsLdAdQcP3A/s1600/July+2014+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Jkmt6-Pk5Unf4IbSy6c4TPu2KUOIdKVAzN8GdHe66ipNQ0yuhTsFCP1opn1uSnMr0QXKoiQ9QnovGnNVymVkkEmaXAuZ0emWCfyf_vIAyx2cmddGBjQ8401AklZCw_JetsLdAdQcP3A/s1600/July+2014+005.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zucchini, melons, yellow squash, strawberry patch, okra, corn, peppers, berries and green beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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2. I have night lights in most of the
rooms of my home. The night light in the bathroom and my bedroom turn on once it's dark. I can walk through each of these rooms at night and not turn on the light because the night lights give off enough light to see. This saves on my electric bill. <br />
<br />
3. I
continue to make bread for my husband's lunch. I made four loaves of
homemade bread and put three of them in the freezer. They should get me
through to next payday. Hopefully! I love my 3 bread makers. I just click 'dough' on the menu selection and let my little 'servants' do the work of kneading. I take them out and let them rise in the oven and then bake them. <br />
<br />
4. I'm always
looking for ways to stretch what I already have on hand. I like to add
water to the last bit of product to stretch it through a few more uses. I
do this with liquid hand soap, shampoo and dish washing soap. <br />
<br />
5.
I made a new Israeli tomato breakfast dish but my husband didn't care
for it. Instead of throwing the leftovers away I added it to my sauce for a chicken
dish that evening and spiced it up so it had a different taste. My husband liked it. <br />
<br />
6. I harvested my basil. I picked the leaves and put them in an ice cube tray and filled it with water. I then put the cubes in a freezer bag. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh6k3TcAMaSVdkB0_RY4gHG2fFo6tq3IoWPSbMg0morp4XvcTTMK55iaA9rFOdHli1qJ8qeZRmcBzJP3QGyk9TBXV3X7H3bPVMUT5ZIMEup7YnZN8IMiY3dcnRMri6fIpUsxfblXjqeI/s1600/July+2014+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBh6k3TcAMaSVdkB0_RY4gHG2fFo6tq3IoWPSbMg0morp4XvcTTMK55iaA9rFOdHli1qJ8qeZRmcBzJP3QGyk9TBXV3X7H3bPVMUT5ZIMEup7YnZN8IMiY3dcnRMri6fIpUsxfblXjqeI/s1600/July+2014+001.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A variety of peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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7.
I used to make this pancake syrup when my children were young. I made
some recently to use when the grandchildren spent the night. Sometimes
it will crystallize so I just warm it on the stove. Generally speaking
it's less expensive to make your own products rather than buying them at
the grocery store. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pancake Syrup</b></span><br />
<br />
1 c. sugar<br />
1 c. brown sugar<br />
1 c. corn syrup (optional)<br />
3/4 c. water<br />
<br />
Boil 3 minutes and then add 1 tsp. vanilla or 1 tsp. maple flavoring. Refrigerate. <br />
<br />
7. I finally finished the apron I was working on. I'd like to make one more before my in-laws arrive for a visit but I doubt I'll have time. <br />
<br />
8.
I pressure canned 6 jars of Spicy Tomato Sauce. Our tomatoes are not producing as well as last year but they sure are huge in foliage! I hope that
we have a late crop because I used up nearly every jar of tomato sauce I
canned last year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiFEOshucwuX16Cy7l4BZ0kLqCUSfALl8R4DYafb52MMVnT6SL1TBEy-0hr0jOUQvrJWtM-1CcugRfuMg1wVkyx9pY73eLn_fFbaETUh36OlSvYvPVnndFBktslO0R6yCVE9Uq-qnI6s/s1600/July+2014+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiFEOshucwuX16Cy7l4BZ0kLqCUSfALl8R4DYafb52MMVnT6SL1TBEy-0hr0jOUQvrJWtM-1CcugRfuMg1wVkyx9pY73eLn_fFbaETUh36OlSvYvPVnndFBktslO0R6yCVE9Uq-qnI6s/s1600/July+2014+011.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Husband took a picture of his requested 'Butternut Cake' for his birthday</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
9. I picked my spearmint a while back and put it in paper bags to dry. Yesterday I stripped the leaves and put them in a storage bag. I can't wait to make big pots of spearmint tea this winter. It smelled so good!<br />
<br />
10. I ended up with quite a few vitamin deficiencies when I found out I had food intolerances and stopped eating certain foods. Vitamins are expensive so now that I'm feeling better I've started to cut back and only take certain vitamins every other day. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here are a few things I saved this week:</span><br />
<br />
- Bread wrappers (washed and reused as a baggie)<br />
- Cake plastic packaging that holds the cake mix (washed and reused as a baggie)<br />
- Plastic herb jar (washed and reused for herbs I grow and dry)<br />
- Plastic mushroom container (washed and reused for a drawer container) <br />
- Veggie, egg shells, coffee grounds and fruit scraps (compost pile)<br />
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So, how is your summer going? What's keeping you busy? I love learning from you ladies!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Blessed to be home!</span></i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span></i>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Georgene</span></i></span></span><br />
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<br />A Woman that Fears the Lordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09028148446621304362noreply@blogger.com18