These Are My Friends, My Pals, My Blogging Buddies!!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Apple Pie In A Jar


I found this WONDERFUL recipe on Homemade Simple's website.  The pies are actually baked in glass jars!  What a wonderful addition to a Christmas basket gift or just by itself with a homemade tag attached to it and a Christmas bow stuck on the side.  This is the link to Homemade Simple's instructions for apple pie in a jar.  I do hope you will look at it and maybe try it.  There is even a Print or a Save to click, so what could be simpler than that?  
The holiday is fast approaching and any great homemade ideas are worthy of our time and attention.  
A homemade gift has so much meaning and thoughtfulness behind it and I count them among the most treasured gifts of all, as a part of us goes into something we have put together with our own hands, with our love, thought, intention and time.
Be sweet

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Playing With Photos - My Digi Art

Original Digital Art - My Great Grandson, Christian
I just cannot keep from playing around with my pictures of the sweet little angel great grand children!  Try hard as I might, it is never very long till I am thinking 'oh, how sweet it would be if ... ' and here I go again!!!
I should be working on the heritage albums I started long ago for my children, but I keep getting sidetracked by these sweet little elves, my heart and my soul, my great grand children!!
Sometimes I have to share them with all of you and this is one that I feel has to be shared!  Christian is one now, but he fit perfectly into the outstretched hand in this picture and I kept adding and taking away until I got just the look I was searching for.
His mommy and Gran loved it as well as his aunts, so I hope you will like it too.  Isn't he just a little hunk?
I am not kidding, he is SO big for his age.  The doctor could not believe he was only one last time.  His growth was off the charts.  We may have a football player here!!!

Be sweet ... you never know when an angel might be just around the corner!

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Faith


There are no words necessary for this little picture!!  Don't you think the title says it all?
Be sweet!!!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Gifts We Feel In Our Hearts


Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving, may you enjoy the holiday and may we all be more aware of what we truly are grateful for.  It isn't tangible 'things' but the love of family and friends, the gifts we have so freely been given are gifts not seen by the human eye, but ones we feel in our hearts each and every day, not limited to a single day.
Be sweet, angels are walking by your side.

Friday, November 19, 2010

The Loves Of My Life

My great grand children
These are truly five precious little angels and they DO make my heart sing!!!  Every time I look at their sparkly little eyes,  their sweet smiles, my heart swells with such love I think it will surely burst.  I wish I could grab them up in my arms all at once and hold them tight!  I held their mommies and daddies, rocked them, loved them and now, the great grand babies!!! I wonder daily what  have I done in this life that God has seen fit to let me be a great grammy, that, to me, is the highest honor a woman can hope to achieve.  A great, great grand child?  I hope so.  My feet would never touch the ground!!!!!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

November ATC Swap

Hi Friends!  I am posting November's ATC's on Backporch Graphics this month as I feel it is more appropriate so if you would like to take a peek at them you can click on the link.  I am warning you, the card I received from Penny Plum is awesome and I love it, love it, love it!!!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Make Your Own Stove Top Stuffing

With the holidays upon us in full force now ... I do mean FULL FORCE, as I tried shopping for last minute Thanksgiving items, I was shoved, pushed, almost trampled and swore never to get out of the house again till after New Year's Day!  Ha!  I expect that to last maybe through the day, possibly into tomorrow.  I forgot to get sage!!  I blame all the confusion at the grocery store on my sudden loss of memory.
In fact, I am sure that was it.  I always have sage in my pantry, but now that it is time to begin preparation for what I hope will be a feast for my family to remember forever, there is no sage in the house!
I lay awake for quite some time last night trying to imagine how a stuffing would taste with no sage.  I simply could not come up with anything good, so I suppose I will brave those pushing, shoving crowds again to make yet another trip to the grocery store for a single bottle of sage!
I am hoping as I stand in line without a shopping cart, holding my lone bottle of sage, someone will be gracious enough to let me go first!
You would not believe how big burly husbands with overflowing grocery carts stand their ground, turning around to stare at you with a single item and not feel an ounce of remorse that they do not offer to let you go ahead of them!
I can only think they possibly are getting even with their wives for sending them out for chocolate chips and a hundred other things the lady of the house had realized she did not have!
I have a great recipe for make ahead stuffing that so resembles Stove Top, it can be used in the same way and also substituted in any recipe calling for Stove Top Stuffing.  It is really good.
 As soon as I get enough nerve to go to the grocery store again, I plan to make it.

Stove Top Stuffing Clone

30 slices firm bread (I use a loaf of sandwich bread)
3 Tblsp. minced onion or onion flakes
2 tsp. garlic salt  (or powder)
1/2 tsp. seasoned pepper
3 Tblsp. dried parsley flakes
3/4 tsp. ground sage
1/3 cup cooking oil (or olive oil)
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.  Cut bread slices in 1/2" cubes and place
in two 9"x13" baking pans.  Toast bread cubes for about 45 minutes. (Mine doesn't take this long, so be
sure to check them often).  Stir once in a while.  Remove from oven when toasted and cool slightly.  Mix remaining ingredients together in a large bowl.
Lightly toss bread cubes with seasonings to coat. (I found I had to add more oil for the seasonings to stick well.  You can play around with it and find what works best for you.)
Place in a large airtight container and store in refrigerator for up to two months or you can freeze it for up to six months.
This recipe makes about twelve cups.

It is great to have on hand during the holidays.  I make cornbread dressing and adding a couple of cups
of this along with the cornbread makes for a yummy dressing!!
Be sweet and may you always walk with angels.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Will The Fat Lady Sing?

Yay!!!  I went for my check up last week and, for a reason I can't for the life of me figure out, I had lost 8 pounds in just a month!!  Not only was I in disbelief, but my doctor was almost in shock, I do believe. 
I have steadily gained for almost 3 years, ever since I survived the sudden cardiac death.  For some reason I began to gain weight when I used to drink milk shakes to try to gain because I was so skinny.  Well, let me tell you, almost three years and a lot of pounds later, I avoid milk shakes like the plague!  I underwent a huge personality change also and I am told that is quite common.  Thank goodness!  I was beginning to think part of me had not returned when I was shocked back, that a part of me remained and would not come back with the rest of me even when I "died" a second time on the way to the hospital ... no pulse, no heartbeat, no blood pressure, clinically and legally dead.   My kids were not given any hope and gathered in the chapel of the hospital.  I actually have no memory of any of it.  I only remember putting on my clothes one morning and the next thing I actually remember was days and days later when I slowly opened my eyes, to see my daughter sitting beside me in a hospital bed with tubes and things.  I had no clue what happened or how I got there.  I had been on life support and in intensive care and didn't know a thing about it!!!  I fooled everyone!  A cardiac death has a 5% survival rate, (only 5% are successfully shocked back to life). 
I will say my brothers must be right.  They both say I am tough as a pine knot!  I have twice been given not much of a chance to survive, but I am sure not going down easy!  I want to see my great grand children get married and that will be several years from now.  I just have too much to do to die, to put it bluntly!!!  I simply do not have the time.  I may get around to it one of these days when I have done all I would like to do.  I know that sounds a little presumptious, but I just refuse to accept what the doctors say and do not hesitate to tell them so!  I tell them I will out live them and I fully expect it to be true!!!
Now, the holidays are fast approaching and I am determined to keep off that 8 pounds plus lose more before I go back in January for my check up! 
I also am determined to cook up all the calorie laden goodies I can think of and eat my fair share of pumpkin pie, turkey, dressing, gravy and all the holiday cookies and candy I can force myself to prepare.  The only thing I can think of to keep that weight off and lose more, yet still eat myself silly, is to exercise like crazy in between bites and try to get in a good walk early every morning.  It is more and more difficult to walk, but I plan to make myself do it anyway.  I figure the more weight I take off the easier it will be.  I bet by summer I will be drinking those milk shakes again!
I plan to share some great  fattening recipes, that's for sure!  So if it is healthy eating you are looking for, you won't find it here.  I use loads of sugar and butter, fry everything instead of steaming as I once did.  I pile on the sour cream, the cheese, all the extras that contain the real calories!!
So we'll see how it goes the next couple of months, with me eating like a piglet and trying like a crazy woman to lose weight at the same time ... it just might work!  Boy, Dr Taylor will fall out of her chair if I have lost  more weight after the holiday season!  I fully expect to and can't wait to see the look on her face when she sees those scales!!!!!
Be sweet, eat all the candy you want and walk among the angels with a candy cane in each hand!!!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Lovely Blog Award


I strive to remain an award free blog, however I received another award anyway!!   Thank you, Aries, from Krazy Monkey Tale.  This is an award to be passed on to 15 other bloggers whose blog you have newly discovered.  I love so many blogs and discover new ones almost every day, so if you are reading this, please consider yourself a recipient of this Lovely Blog Award and post it on your site.  We are a big loving and happy family and I cannot, for the life of me, just choose 15, so I want all of you to have this award!!!
Thank you, sweet little Aries for this beautiful and thoughtful award!!
Aries lives in Malaysia, where she writes her blog and is the mom of 2 teenage boys.
Thanks again, Sweetheart!  I am happy you think my little blog (even though I can't even control the size of a font) worthy of an award such as this.  I am humbled.
Stay sweet and angels will find you!!!!!

Easy Chili Recipe Takes The Chill Out

  
Chili with sour cream and shredded cheese

I am trying again to see if I can post in a normal sized font!!!  It appears to be working, so my fingers will be crossed as I hit "publish post"!!  I don't know what in the world I did or did not do on the previous post.

Easy Crockpot Chili

1 lb. lean ground beef
1 med. bell pepper, chopped
1 small to med. onion, chopped
2 cans (15 oz) red kidney beans, undrained
2 pkgs chili seasoning mix (Williams is best, but I make my own)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilis (Rotel)

shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions ( these are optional toppings)

Brown ground beef, pepper and onion in skillet and drain well.  Place in crock pot
and gently fold in remaining ingredients except the optional toppings.
Place lid on crock pot and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
Serve directly from slow cooker and sprinkle with any optional ingredients, or others
of your choosing. 


Okay, I am about to hit "publish post", so I need a prayer or two right about now!  I f you have any ideas what I have done previously, PLEASE let me know!


Be sweet as always and may you walk among angels. 

  

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix

Hot Chocolate Topped With a Dollop of Whipped Cream and a Sifting of Cinnamon


Oh, I can hardly wait for the weekend!!!  Guess I am about half nuts (or all maybe) but it is supposed to be a rainy, chilly weekend after the unusually warm week we have enjoyed so far!  I believe it is still called Indian Summer.  However, I am actually looking forward to the coming cold front.  There is nothing so comforting as wrapping in a soft blanket with a good hot cup of hot chocolate on a dreary chilly night,  watching favorite TV programs that have long since left prime time!  I am sharing a very good homemade hot chocolate mix with you and I believe it will be a keeper.  It is a little different than the ordinary ones.  This makes a lovely gift when packaged as a gift in a jar, serving instructions handwritten on a whimsical little tag cut from a plain brown paper bag and tied with jute, twine or a country ribbon.  Place this in a basket lined with paper shreds, mugs, marshmallows and a shaker of cinnamon and VOILA ... a gift suitable for Queen Elizabeth herself!!  I am sure she would curl up with a blanky and cup of steaming hot chocolate if given the opportunity!!!  
Here is your recipe.  I hope you enjoy making this and keeping it on hand for the coming months.

Hot Chocolate Mix

1 (5 or 6 Qt.) box instant milk
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup Nestle's Quik
1/2 cup powdered creamer
1 box instant chocolate
1/4 to 1/2 cup cocoa

Mix ingredients well and package in        airtight container.Use 1/3 cup mix to 1 cup hot water.
Be sweet, may you always walk with angels and keep plenty of marshmallows and whipping cream!!!!
(I have no idea what I did, but I can't make the post smaller, the font won't change.  I am just struggling trying to figure out everything as I go!!!  One thing for sure - you don't need glasses to read this post!!!!)

Friday, October 29, 2010

October ATC Swap And Guess What, December's Theme is Angels!!!

As I have mentioned in the past I participate in a monthly ATC swap (Artist's Trading Card, for those unfamiliar with the term) at Blissfull ATC Swap.  Each month a different theme is chosen for the artist, along with a different swap partner.  It has been great fun.  I am thoroughly addicted to making the little cards!  It is such fun to start with nothing and, using only your imagination, to end up with such a tiny piece of art is so amazing.
The October theme was simply "dark".  Well, as you all are well aware, "dark" is definitely not my thing and it was extremely difficult to make a work of art that one would consider dark!!!  I actually made 2 or 3 and even thought about dropping out, but this very last week, I FINALLY did it!!!  (November has a theme of choice so that should be easy to do.)
Wendy, from Bliss Angels was my swap partner this month and the ATC I received from her was beautiful!!  It was a Gothic lady and just so gorgeous, I began to think my little sad girl was maybe not what the theme called for.  I had an email from her today that she had received it and loved it.  Thank goodness!!!!  I made a little envelope to hold it and had a devilish looking little character on that, since it is Halloween.  I hope I will one day be as talented as Wendy.  Her work is awesome!  I hope you will drop by her blog and take a look around and also the swap blog.  Who know, there just may be an artist out there waiting to happen and these tiny pieces of art could just be your thing!!!

The ATC and envelope I sent Wendy

This is the ATC I received from Wendy.  The picture doesn't do it justice.  You just can't see the real beauty!  It is absolutely gorgeous!!!
Be sweet, have a great weekend and a happy Halloween!!!

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

The Grocery List

A poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store. She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries. 
She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food.
The grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store at once.  Visualizing the family needs, she said: 'Please, sir! I will bring you the money as soon as I can.'
The old grocer told her he could not give her credit, since she did not have a charge account at his store. Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family.  
The grocer said in a very reluctant voice, 'Do you have a grocery list?' The lady replied, 'Yes sir.' 'O.K' he said, 'put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries..'
She hesitated a moment with a bowed head,then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed. 
The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down..
The grocer, staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, 'I can't believe it.' The customer smiled and the grocer started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. 
The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more. 
The grocer stood there in utter disgust. 
Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement.
It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said:
'Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands.' 
The grocer gave her the groceries that he had gathered and stood in stunned silence.The little lady thanked him and left the store....  
The other customer handed a fifty-dollar bill to the grocer and said, 
'It was worth every penny of it.  Only God knows how much a prayer weighs ...' 


Be sweet and may you always walk with Angels!!

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Hobbit Girl Child, Morgan Lynn

My great grand daughter, Morgan Lynn Boyd
Isn't she just the cutest, sweetest little angel herself?  We call her our little Hobbit because when she was so tiny, I asked Brittany, her mommy, how is the baby and, jokingly, she said, "She's not a baby.  She's a Hobbit.  She crawled through the window one night and she was so cute we decided to keep her."  Now we all call her our little Hobbit girl child!!!
This black and white photo is perfect for the scrapbook page I made, don't you agree?
Be sweet!!!

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Blue Roses


I had scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and
headed for the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the
narrow aisle by a young man who appeared to be about
sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently waited
for the boy to realize that I was there.
This was when he waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over here." It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also
startled as he turned and saw me standing so close to him,
waiting to squeeze by. His eyes widened and surprise
exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's your
name?" "My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he
responded proudly.
"Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was
Denny, but my name is Steve."
"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.
"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"
"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she
slowly came over from the next aisle..
"You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy and let
the man pass by." I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for
several more minutes about summer, bicycles, and school.
I watched his brown eyes dance with excitement because
he was the center of someone's attention. He then abruptly
turned and headed toward the toy section. Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked
me for taking the time to talk with her son. She told me that
most people wouldn't even look at him, much less talk to
him. I told her that it was my pleasure and then I said
something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God. She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she
asked, "Who are you?"
Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion
but I sure love living in God's garden."
She reached out, squeezed my hand, and said, "God bless
you!" and then I had tears in my eyes.
May I suggest that the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why? Because, by the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your child, grandchild, niece, or nephew.
What a difference a moment can mean to that person or their family.

From an old dandelion!

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Leave the rest to God.

"People will forget what you said, People will forget what you
did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

The above story was sent to me by a friend and is so touching it deserves to be shared.  Most people are so kind and so lovingly accept our "blue roses".
My own little "blue rose" (a grandson) was voted "most likely to be remembered" by his senior class.
Everywhere we went for miles around, people knew him and came up, smiling, to talk to him.  He remembers ever single bit of it too!  He was allowed to graduate with his class if we chose or attend school 2 more years. We let him decide and he chose graduating with the class he had gone to school with, though he was in a "special" class, he was always included in every activity and his picture in the cap and gown and the one at the prom are treasures indeed!!!
Be sweet and treat others as you would like to be treated!

Friday, October 1, 2010

The Old Geezer Blog is a Must Read

I am writing this post only to send you on a journey through cyberspace to land on one of the brightest, most insightful blogs I have had the pleasure of reading!!!  Today I clicked on his link and the title of the post was "The Laundry Lesson".  Of course, it has such a surprising and insightful ending you will be amazed at the wisdom and humor combined possessed by this man!!!  It is pure delight to read and take in meanings behind the words.  He is a devout Christian and, as I told him, the kind of man, that if he were my neighbor, I would think nothing of running over to borrow a cup of sugar from Mrs. Geezer and if he would not mind, when he had the time, would he please nail my mailbox back on its post!!!  It is called simply The Old Geezer Blog.  I can assure you will not regret it, but will marvel, as I have, at the insight found in all he posts ... it sure makes us stop and think!
See ya' later and be sweet!

Sunday, September 26, 2010

ATC's I Made For Debbie For September Swap

Leaves From Other Gardens
Angel In The Leaves


I made two cards for Debbie, even though we are only swapping one.  I feel such a special bond with her because we both have known the pain and the emptiness left by the loss of a child.  
We will learn to manage, to fill our lives with purpose, with joy ...  for they are watching and neither will have it any other way!  
When a leaf falls, swirling to the ground, we hear their soft whisper, see their sweet eyes sparkle in every drop of morning dew, knowing for sure that in our hearts, they live yet!  We only have to close our eyes and they are there.
Be sweet!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

September Blissfull ATC Swap, Theme Leaves

This is the beautiful ATC I received from Debbie for the Blissfull ATC Swap for the month of September.  I received it some time ago and have had no way of getting it on my computer to show you guys!   I love this card and it has such special meaning for me.  The heart at the top symbolizes 2 mothers who have each lost a child.  Debbie's sweet daughter has gone to Heaven as my Mitch has, so I know they are playing jokes on each other and  having so fun and would not want their mamas to be sad. 
Deb sent me more than just a card, she sent handmade items she had put her time and her love into.  I can't tell you what that means to me.  She is a special friend to me now, because she is a very, very special person.  She found out my favorite color is purple and made a purple card just for me.  She has the most beautiful blog,  Simply Debbie.  I hope you will stop by and visit and you will be pleased I promise.  You will find yourself going back again and again.
I feel so badly because I haven't mailed Debbie's ATC to her yet.  I will get it mailed tomorrow.  I will put a copy of it here so you can all see the one I sent to her.  I have my fingers crossed that she will like it.  She is such a sweet little thing!!!
Love you all - always be sweet!

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Belief And Handmade Gifts



My great grand daughter, Carlee
Little Carlee really does have the sweet face of an angel!  She is so loving and sweet.  I am making personalized collaged trays for all of the greats.  I gave Anna hers already and I was so afraid she wouldn't like it, because she is only 4 and I thought "What 4 year old would even want a tray?".  I had thought she might not care for it now, but when she was 30 or so, it would be a treasure, cherished, for it was a handmade gift, made especially for her by her great grandma when she was little.
Would you believe it, she absolutely loved it!!!  Her eyes grew wide, she kept rubbing the images on the tray (which were pictures of her and words that I had made into a collage), she took it to show her mommy, her Aunt Brooke and anyone else that would look.  I was SO happy for even though I thought she might not like it, I secretly hoped she would and my wildest dreams came true!!!
Anna has her little tray on her bedside table with all her hair bows in it.  Kristi, her mom, says she wants to keep it in her room by her bed. 
Oh, I can't begin to tell you how happy that makes me!!! Now I have 2 more started and will not stop until I have them all made and can only hope the others like theirs as well.
If I do not respond to your comments as I should or would like to do, please know that I read them word for word and they mean so much to me to read the sweet things you write.  I don't like to admit it and I seldom do, but I am in pain almost constantly and it is becoming increasingly harder for me to walk.  Sitting at the computer, which I love, makes it even harder because of the pressure on my hip joints.  I plan on bouncing around like a 16 year old by the end of the year or before!!
Jesus said unto him, if thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. - Mark 9:23 -
Be sweet, all!!!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

You Just Can't Have Too Many Angels!!!


This is a little page I made with old pictures of my mom and dad when they were youngsters.  They didn't even know each other when these 2 pictures were made.  They met when my mom was 18 and Dad was 21.  They are, of course, 2 of the sweetest angels now.  I had to post this picture so everyone could see them, the little smile on my mom's sweet face and how my dad looked sort of pouty because he was having his picture made again.  He was the youngest of 10 and they did take lots of pictures, especially of him, being the baby.  My mom's family was very poor and never had money for a camera or pictures so I am SO grateful to have this one that an aunt gave to me.  Anyway, these two gave me the values and morals I have today.  I had to let you see them, how precious they are.

Well, wouldn't you know, after my purse, all my money and identification was stolen, I was quite upset for a good while, longer than I liked or wanted to be!  However, belief has saved me!  I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt I would gather up my scattered marbles, get them back where they belonged and forgive the person who stole everything I had in the world.  I have done so!!!

Once I actually forgave and could feel that wonderful peace that comes with forgiveness, God has sent me yet another angel!!!  I have not yet seen her but I bet she has no wings unless she hides them securely in her clothes so as not to let people know!!!   However she surely is an angel if ever there was one!!  Someday I want to write more about this.  At the moment I am too overwhelmed with gratitude!

Please go look at the wonderful photography of Stephen Baird of Nikon Sniper.  It is absolutely amazing!!  He can capture with that camera things you can only imagine.  I could not believe what I was looking at when I found his blog and began looking at those photographs.  What he does is astounding to me.  He is a great writer as well as photographer and the titles he gives to the pictures are very creative and at times amusing!  this will be a blog you will visit again and again just to see what he has done next!!!

So glad to be back to my old self, aggravating as that may be!!!  I have been thrown for a loop many times, been down, we all have - just don't stay there.  Life is way too short and we don't want to waste any of it dwelling on what might have been.

You know I have to say it, just something in me, can't help myself ... be sweet!!!!

Friday, September 3, 2010

We Take The Bad Along With The Good

I may not post for a little while.  I did not want you all to think I fell off the face of the earth!
I haven't the heart right now as I am so devastated that there are such cruel people in our beautiful world.
My purse was stolen with all the money I have in it!!  I always get money orders to pay my bills and cash for the rest of the month as I am only receiving Social Security since I became disabled.
I will trust in God to take care of me and just put it in His hands.  I have said it is a learning experience, but it will take a while to get my bearings.
In the mean time, be sweet!!!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

The Proper Way To Eat A Birthday Cake


This was Christian's personal little cake for his first birthday!  Boy, did he tear into it.  He ended up with more on his face than his tummy, but he sure had fun trying!!  He is the sweetest, funniest little boy.  He is so heavy and tall to be just one year old.  His mom, Kristi, looks like she is lopsided when she carries him.  I tell her she will become permanently bent! 
He can walk and has been for quite some time.  He is so funny because he almost runs and look like he is walking on his toes.  He is at the age when the house has to be baby proofed as he is so curious about every single thing and loves to explore.  I could almost squeeze him to pieces he is so sweet and he always has a big smile that would melt a glacier on that little face, those eyes fairly sparkling ... pure joy, being a great grandma. 
So many blessings I wouldn't even know where to start if I tried to count them!!!!
Be sweet, Loveys and count your blessings every day ...

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Littlest Angels


Baby Morgan is the newest great grandchild and the little lady with the sparkles and crown is her big sister, Abigail.  They are my heart and my soul,  with their sweet little smiles brighter than the sun!
Be sweet!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Homemade Gift, A Collaged Vinegar Bottle

Okay, Guys, this is what I made a couple of days ago from a vinegar bottle.  First I painted it purple which is my very favorite color in the whole world, then I glued purple patterned paper to the lid (which doesn't show in this picture, but it is very pretty and feminine looking).  Next I sorted through all my paper till I found another pretty purple print, tore a piece and attached it, cut out the lovely lady and a butterfly, added a dollop or two of glitter.  Then I sprayed it with a couple of coats of sealer to protect it.  I had to remove a flower near the left bottom of the bottle before the final spray as I usually get carried away with embellishments and want to add everything within reach.  The bottle did look much better without the little flower as it was a bit much ... more than it needed, or so I thought after putting it on. 
I told a friend I am like a kid with his first coloring book and pack of crayons whenever I make something!!  It just makes me happy and keeps me out of trouble to stay busy. 
Oh, I almost forgot, but I looped a strand of fiber around the neck of the bottle and tied it loosely.  I thought it need that little extra oomph especially since I had removed the flower ... can't have a purple bottle looking too naked, now can we? 
Be extra sweet and keep on the lookout for pretty bottles to collage for yourself or as gifts!!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

How Not To Baby Sit A Great Grandchild

Abigail and me

I remember being SO excited when I found out I was going to be a great grandmother.  I can still feel the joy, the excitement ... the "what did I ever do to deserve this" ... I married so young, grew up with my babies (my dad used to say they grew up but I never did) so I was a grandmother at age 36.  Now here I was, as excited as a teenager because one of my grand daughters was bringing a tiny sweet new little life into this world!!!
My phone rang in the middle of the night and I answered it to hear Brittany say the 3 most beautiful words I believe I have ever heard ... "Grandma, Abigail's out!".  So began the tiny little great grandchildren that have brightened my life so!!
Brittany took this picture one night when I babysat Abigail while her mom and dad had a much deserved night out.  This is what they came home to!!  I swear it was in the dead of winter, probably 5 degrees out, and I am sound asleep, wrapped up in the blanket with my back to Abigail as she lay uncovered in nothing but a diaper!!  Her doll is even over by me!!!  Some great grandma I am  ... I was mortified when I saw that picture, but my sweet little Brittany had to take the picture, exclaiming to me later, "Awww, Grandma, the two of you were so cute sleeping like that."
Even now, when I look at that picture I want to scoop Abigail in my arms, hold her close and promise I will never sleep again when she is with me!!

Saturday, August 14, 2010

For Those Who Like Angels As Much As I Do

I was asked to post more angel images on this site and I am more than pleased to do so.  I also have another blog which posts many images, most of them vintage and a great many angels.  It is Backporch Graphics if you would like to check it out.  I think you will be pleased, especially if you use images in any crafts you make.  They are beautiful for collages and decoupage.
Here are your angel images and this is only a few as I have many in my collection.  I will always be posting angels on the other blog.  Just yesterday I posted 2 beautiful angel pictures.  I hope you enjoy these.  You know, if we just be still and quiet the angels will come to us.  We don't even have to look for them ... they are just there!!!
Be sweet!!

Friday, August 13, 2010

Most Dangerous Cake Recipe

MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG  CAKE
1 Coffee Mug (microwave safe)
4 tablespoons flour(that's plain flour, not self-rising)
4  tablespoons sugar
2  tablespoons baking cocoa
1  egg
3  tablespoons milk
3  tablespoons oil
3  tablespoons chocolate chips  (optional)
Small splash of vanilla

Add dry  ingredients to mug, and mix well .  Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
Pour in  the milk and oil and mix well.
Add the chocolate chips (if using) and  vanilla, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3  minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be  alarmed!

Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.
EAT! (this can serve  2 if you want to share!)

And why is this the most dangerous  cake recipe in the world?  Because now we are all only 5 minutes away from  chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!
This also makes a great gift by mixing dry ingredients, placing in plastic bag and attach recipe to mug handle with jute or an organza ribbon tied in a bow.  Add a couple of plastic spoons and voila!!
Enjoy your cake in a mug and remember to be sweet!!!

Monday, August 9, 2010

ATC Swap


This is my very first ATC swap a swap hosted by Blissfull ATC Swap and I am totally hooked!!  I received my sweet little card in the mail from Sharon of Wildflowerhouse.  I hope you will check out these blogs.  You just might be inspired to make an ATC yourself!!  Already I am planning on buying pages to store mine in as I know they will begin to accumulate.  I told Sharon I hope mine holds together as it was only the 2nd or 3rd I had ever made!  I THINK I have found a better glue.  I am posting the card I got from Sharon so you can see for yourself how lovely it is.
Is this not the cutest, sweetest thing you ever saw?!  The theme for August is "orange".  I love this and now I am the proud owner of my very first Artist Trading Card!!!
Be sweet and go make a card!!!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Homemade Gift Idea - Gift In A Jar


Peach Crumb Cake Mix

3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup quick oats
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Layer the ingredients in the order given into a wide mouth 1-quart canning jar.
Pack each layer into place before adding the next ingredient.

Attach a gift tag with the following instructions:

Peach Crumb Cake:
Contents of Peach Crumb Cake Mix jar
3/4 cup butter or margarine
1 (29 ounce) can peach pie filling

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Empty contents of jar into a mixing bowl, stirring to combine.
Melt butter and stir into dry ingredients to form a crumbly mixture.
Press half of the crumbs into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and top with
Peach pie filling. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over filling.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.

An even more thoughtful gift would be to add a can of peach pie filling and a 9 x 13 inch
baking pan.  This would be gorgeous packed in a pretty basket tied with a colorful
ribbon.  It is never too early to begin collecting ideas for homemade Christmas gifts. Last year I
had planned to share lots of goodies I had saved over the years, but the "best laid plans of mice and men
go awry" so this year I will try to make up for it and have many great homemade gift ideas in mind.
Handmade and homemade are always so much nicer than any store bought gift for a little piece of you goes into each present.  I feel special when someone cares enough to take the time to make something just for me.  It gives a warm fuzzy glow and immediately the thoughtfulness of a homemade gift becomes one which you know has come straight from the heart!!
Be sweet!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Second Set - Ten Simple Sayings

Children will not remember you for the material things you provided but for the feeling that you cherished them
.- Richard L. Evans -

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
- Walt Emerson -

 ...the way I see it, you can either run from it, or learn from it.
- The Lion King

When you come to the edge of all the light you know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly.
- Barbara J. Winter -

The longer we dwell on our misfortunes, the greater is their power to harm us.
- Voltaire -

Many people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could.
- unknown -

You don't drown by falling in water. You drown by staying there.
- unknown -


If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging.
- Will Rogers -

According to the laws of aerodynamics, the bumblebee can't fly, but the bumblebee doesn't know anything about the laws of aerodynamics, so it goes ahead and flies anyway.
- Igor Sikorsky -

It is not what you do that matters it is what you don't do that really matters at the end of the day.
- unknown -

I hope you enjoy reading these quotes.  I think a good inspirational or motivational quote gives that extra push sometimes and I always  think "boy, I wish I'd said that!".
Be sweet!!!!


Saturday, July 17, 2010

Angel Images


I do hope you have a great and fun weekend!  Whatever you do, be sweet and be nice. You have angels that hover nearby.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Way It Was

The south is known for the unusual names of some of its quaint little towns ... Gourdneck,  Bald Knob, Weiner, Possum Grape, Hogeye ... all are in Arkansas, with those as just a beginning.
I remember when some friends of our family were on a well known game show and the host poked fun of the name, Weiner. He immediately began calling it Hot Dog Town USA.
If he thought Weiner was funny, he would probably have rolled in the floor to hear the names of some of the neighboring towns!!
We never thought anything about it. That's just how it was, how we were ... how I still am!!  The old saying "you can take a girl out of the country but you can't take the country out of the girl" is very true!  I absolutely adore going barefoot, would give anything to know where a good patch of wild blackberries grew berries as big as a thumb, dusty and begging to be picked for a cobbler or pie or maybe a bit of that delicious blackberry preserves! Nothing in a supermarket comes close.
I am forever reading something about "going green", making your own cleaning supplies, cooking from scratch, etc. This is supposedly the new way.  Actually the new way is the old way which has come full circle, into its own again!  With eyes closed  I see my sweet little mama bringing her sliced apples to the back porch to protect them from the morning dew, slowing their drying process.  Those dried apples made the best fried apple pies you could imagine, with a crust so flaky it practically melted in your mouth and the sweetness of the apples with a hint of cinnamon make those with ingredients you find hard pressed even to pronounce, seem tasteless!
Make do or do without. That's how it was, how it should be.  Life was sweet.  We rarely saw a doctor as mama and my grandmas knew exactly what was best for every ailment.  I remember once when my brother and I ate a whole card of buttons, staples and all, you better believe my mama lost no time getting us to see old Dr. Hickman then.  It scared her to pieces.  Her mouth dropped open, her eyes widened, as round as saucers.  This was cause for alarm and sent her scurrying, preparing us for the trip to the doctor!!!

Treat others as you would like to be treated and, remember, in all you do be kind and be sweet!!

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

The Road Not Taken

The Road Not Taken



Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I -

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

- Robert Frost -

I love poetry and have always especially liked this poem by Robert Frost.  We probably all wonder at one time or another during the course of our lives, what would be different if we had traveled "The Road Not Taken".
Be sweet!



Sunday, July 4, 2010

No Twinkies Treats Today


Today I was playing around with my digital image program and made this.  I  like it and hope you do as well.  I love angels and I usually am making scrapbook pages of my family, especially grandparents and my own little great grandchildren. I just decided to try something different and I was pleased, so am sharing it with you.  I changed everything to sepia as I love the look and also do a lot of my scrapbook pages in sepia as well.
Big surprise ... no Twinkies for me today! I will tell you I was tempted, but since my legs are beginning to look like thunder thighs and my behind like two giant Twinkies, I thought I had better hold off for awhile. May not have too much will power though as I found a new delicious sounding Twinkie treat just today and even if my knees are dimpled when I put on a pair of shorts and I am beginning to think I waddle instead of walk, I just might have to give it a try!! You will be the first to know.
Just stay sweet and I'll try to stay away from Twinkies ... notice I said TRY, because I never make a promise I may not be able to keep!

Friday, July 2, 2010

Obsessed With Twinkies - Could Be (and probably has been) Worse!!

Oh gosh, now I am obsessed with Twinkie desserts!!!  Guess that's better than other obsessions I could think of, huh? Anyway, here is another great, easy to prepare, melt in your mouth delicious, yummy Twinkie treat for you to try!!! All I can say is keep on buying those Twinkies, 'cause there will probably be more goodies to follow this one. Gotta' keep those great grand kids happy and wanting to come back to Grammy's house, now don't I?        Remember - be sweet!!!

Twinkie Toffee Temptation 

1 small box vanilla instant pudding
2 C. milk
10 single Twinkies
8 oz. Heath bars, crushed or 6 oz. bag of toffee bits
4 oz. Cool Whip

Prepare pudding with milk. Set aside.

Slice Twinkies in halves lengthwise. Line a 13 x 9-inch dish with 
bottom halves of Twinkies, filling side up. Sprinkle on 1/2 cup crushed candy. Pour in pudding. Spread Cool Whip over the top. Top with remaining candy. Cover and refrigerate.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Like Butterfinger? Like Twinkies? You'll Love This!!

Butterfinger and Twinkies have long been favorites of mine.  I absolutely LOVE them.  Even though I am keenly aware too much sweets are definitely not good for either your health or your figure ( as if I even had a figure any more) I simply can't resist a good old crunchy Butterfinger or a gooey Twinkie once in a while.  Pair the two along with chocolate and whipped topping and you have a dessert that is guaranteed to melt in your mouth and tickle your innards!!
This yummy recipe will have little kids and big kids alike coming back for more!

Butterfinger Twinkle

1 small pkg. chocolate instant pudding mix
1 15 oz. pkg. Twinkies
6 Butterfinger bars, finely chopped
1 8 oz. Cool Whip

Prepare pudding mix. Set aside and tear each Twinkie into 3 or 4 pieces.  Place pieces in 13 x 9 inch pan. Spread pudding over Twinkie pieces and top with half of chopped Butterfingers.  Cover with whipped topping and sprinkle remaining chopped Butterfingers over top.  Chill 3 or 4 hours before serving. Makes about 16 servings.
As it chills, sit back, relax and be sweet!!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Put Me Back! Put Me Back!

How could I forget to post this picture of Morgan taken immediately after she was born?!  Just look at that baby ... she was all nice and warm and protected in her little cocoon and now, here she is out in the cold and blaring lights!! She is sure telling the world how she feels about it right now!!!  She was probably thinking, "Put me back!  Put me back!!"  It wasn't long though till she was snuggled up close to Brittany, her mommy, and was she ever happy then.  Her little mouth that had been screaming bloody murder a few minutes before began to look a little like a soft pink rosebud and she curled right up and went back to sleep, hoping they would just leave her alone for a while.  It takes a girl a little while to get over such a traumatic experience and she was surely going to try to sleep and forget about it!!!!
Be sweet all!

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Just One Happy, Silly Old Lady

I am posting this little picture and prayer as it is funny and I don't ever want for a minute for my readers to be saddened by something I have written.  I know the previous post is indeed sad, but I would ask you to be happy for me and for my family.  We have known our share of sadness but we have also known more than our share of joy.  We have been so blessed and are ever so grateful for all the lovely years spent with our loved ones who have gone on before us.  They have added a measure of happiness to our lives we would never have had otherwise.
Life is short and I don't always make the most of it, but I laugh more than I cry at the antics of my son and grandson who are the most precious of angels now and I am sure they must be the funniest of all, playing pranks as they once did with us.
Be happy for me that I was lucky enough to have them to love for as long as I did, for I am keenly aware that there are others who are not so lucky.
I look at my 5 great grand children today and wonder what in the world I have ever done to deserve such happiness!!!! I have been SO blessed.  I am SO very thankful that I was raised and taught by the most loving, wonderful parents anyone could imagine!  I am SO very thankful that I have had 6 of the most beautiful and best children in all of the world!  I am SO thankful for my precious grand children and my sweet little great grand children!
As I have said, life is short and life is what we make it to be ... now I just want the weeds out of my veggies planted in the flower beds, my prayer above to be answered and I will be about the happiest, silliest old lady on the face of this earth!!
Remember to always be sweet and whatever you do, be nice!!!

Our Own Sweet Angel

This is our Logan, who we always call "Logie".  My daughter, Debye, is his mom and Brittany is his sweet sister.  God needed our boy in Heaven, so called him to come home just 3 short years ago.  How we miss him and love him, but how grateful we are to have had such a gift as he was for the 18 years God let him stay with us on this earth.  I know he surely is the delight of all the angels and they must smile continually for he is one of them now.  He was an angel on earth and now is an angel in Heaven.  We feel his presence in every moment of our lives, in every breath we take, he is there.  We love you forever, Logie and someday, when God sees fit, we will join you, once again to hold you close, listen to that laugh that is not quite like any other.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Reese's Peanut Butter Twins

Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

2 cups milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
1 cup confectioners' sugar
2/3 cup graham cracker crumbs
30 mini (1 3/4 by 1 1/4 inch) paper cups

In 1-quart saucepan combine chocolate chips and shortening. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted and smooth (3 to 5 minutes).
Loosen top paper cup from stack, but leave in stack for greater stability while being coated. With small paint brush, coat inside top cup evenly with about 1 teaspoon melted chocolate to about 1/8-inch thickness, bringing coating almost to top of cup but not over edge. Repeat until 30 cups are coated; refrigerate cups.
In 2-quart saucepan combine butter or margarine and peanut butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring ocassionally, until melted (4 to 6 minutes). Stir in confectioners' sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Press about 1/2 tablespoon filling into each chocolate cup.
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon melted chocolate on top of filling; spread to cover. Freeze until firm (about 2 hours) carefully peel off paper cups. Store refrigerated.

_________________________________
 
Every little boy and girl I know loves Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.  In face, every big girl and boy I know does as well.  It is a favorite of almost everyone.  There is something about the taste of peanut butter and chocolate that is unmatched.  Thes are not difficult at all to make and will be well worth the effort to watch small faces light up and little hands reaching for this delicious homemade treat.  These are great for gift giving a homemade treat in a pretty container tied with ribbon, holding a tag with the recipe and instructions.  I hope you enjoy this just half as much as I do and remember, whatever you do, always be sweet!!!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Nino Envuelto (Bundled Up Baby)

This is a Mexican recipe that could easily be called a Mexican jelly roll.  It is fun to make and a bit different from the norm.  I love the name, which means Bundled Up Baby. I have quite a lot of Mexican and Tex Mex recipes and this is definitely one of my favorites to fill that craving for "something a bit sweet".  This little dessert is the perfect ending after a meal of a hot and spicy main dish.
I do hope you will give it a try and let me know how it turns out.  You may also use any flavor of jam that you like instead of the peach,  Happy cooking and enjoy!!!


Nino Envuelto

1/2 cup butter, melted and cooled
5 eggs, divided
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup flour
peach jam
confectioner's sugar

Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat egg yolks and whites separately, until whites are stiff.
Combine and, still beating, slowly add sugar, flour and butter.  Place wax paper on baking sheet and butter the paper.  Spread dough 1/2 inch thick over the paper and bake from 50 minutes to 1 hour.
When done, remove from the oven and roll up quickly, paper and all.  Let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
Unwrap, carefully loosening paper, but leaving it under cake.  Spread cake with jam.  Re-roll, discarding the wax paper. 
Roll entire cake in confectioner's sugar.  Cut off each end for a neat appearance.  Slice 1 inch thick to serve.


I just know this will be a big hit and I can hardly wait for you to try this little jewel!!!!
Be sweet!!!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Heart Gifts



It's not the things that can be bought that are life's richest treasure, it's just the little "heart gifts" that money cannot measure...

A cheerful smile, a friendly word, a sympathetic nod

Are priceless little treasures from the storehouse of our God...

They are the things that can't be bought with silver or with gold, for thoughtfulness and kindness and love are never sold...

They are priceless things in life for which no one can pay, and the giver finds rich recompense in giving them away.



                                                                           Helen Steiner Rice


I love the poems written by Helen Steiner Rice.  They all hold such insight and wisdom, yet are very earthy.  I hope you enjoy this little one as much as I do.

Update:  My vegetables are looking a little forlorn.  I had so hoped they would take off and grow big and heavy with squash and tomatoes, etc.  It looks now as if that will definitely not be the case.  A storm with some hail knocked my tiny squash off the plants and made the other plants look pretty pitiful!  I am not ready to give up just yet though.  I think if I apply Miracle Grow and baby them, they just might make it.  I do have a small green tomato and a few peppers, so maybe they will all suddenly have a burst of growth and overnight become the healthy plants I had dreamed of!!!
So much for that ... be sweet everyone!