Upswing

upswing
getting married as the clock hand
passes the six heads for the twelve
somehow blessing the union
old wives tale of
good luck

upswing
dow and nasdaq on the rise
black not red
not minus not unch
bull not bear
plus side economy
good fortune

upswing
winter solstice
shortest day giving way to
lengthening hours of light
end of year providing
a few more minutes of sun
lifting spirits
more in the mind than sky
good day

upswings
pendulums
glasses half full toasting
positive thoughts
resilience
persistence
patience
new day
longer day
new year
new chances to prevail
hope stubborn hope
like Ole Sol
peaks over the mountain
lingers over the pacific
good news

upswings
catch the wind
catch the spirit
good cheer. . .

Happy New Year!

christie smith stephens
december 31, 2010

My Christmas Story

This is a story with a happy ending. We have embraced Jinx the neighborhood cat as our cat during the recent days/weeks of very cold weather. Jinx had been coming around for 2 - 3 years and everyone assumed he belonged to someone nearby. He would have a nibble or two, then be on his way. But in November, he came to the door one day, came inside, and made himself at home like our home had been his all along! As the nights got colder, he was more and reluctant to leave, so we allowed him to stay with us.
We began to worry about what we would do with him when we left town after Christmas. In other words, we were falling in love with this very large, very lovable, solid black cat. I had been told which house he belonged to, so I decided to take their street address and do a reverse phone lookup online. And there it was, they still had a land line. I called and left a long message, feeling rather foolish if these people were not Jinx's owners. But alas, they were, and so glad I called. The owner is an animal lover and on the board of the Humane Society. She has 3 cats and 2 dogs, all adopted. Jinx has always been a traveller and the owner has family and friends who live in the neighborhood and call her when Jinx shows up at their home. She was getting worried because no one had called and was going to start looking for him. She wanted to come and get him that night, but I asked her to let us keep him one more night. So we had the pleasure of his company one last night with him sleeping at my feet.
We lost our beloved cat last spring after having her for 18 years, so Jinx definitely provided something missing in our lives. We are not able to own a pet at this time with our travels, but we were happy to participate for a short time in the neighborhood Rent-A-Cat program! And most of all, we were happy to know that Jinx would not be left out in the cold.

Visiting

As I was driving to Indiana this morning, I was feeling anxious. Family visits are often a tangle of emotions.   I am visiting my aunt who has been been struggling with health issues for the past six months.  Last month, she was not feeling well and a little confused.  

Today, she was alert and feeling well.  A miniature Christmas tree is sitting on a small table near bed.  Her television is providing background noise to our conversation.  Although she was not able to be home for Christmas, she is positive and hopeful about returning home soon.  

As we prepare to leave, I tell her I hope to be back tomorrow.  Visiting a  loved one can provide a small expression of love.

Outside my comfort zone

I like the comfort of routines.  For me, schedules and routines provide a sense of structure and predictability.  Even on vacations, I like schedules. I am uneasy when I have to go out of my comfort zone.

I sometimes value routines over people.  Recently, I saw  Dama text someone, " Do you need a ride to church?" A simple action motivated me to think about how I am reaching out to others.  When was the last time I asked someone if they needed a ride to church or to a medical appointment?  When was the last time I visited someone in a nursing home or the hospital?  When did I make an effort to meet the new neighbors? Now, I need to put action to my words.
Faith and Deeds... James 2:14 ~26

Every Child is the Christ Child

Every child is the Christ Child

If we choose to receive

The sweet word sent from Heaven

To our waiting lives in need.

Every child is the Christ Child

For all those who believe

When we open wide our hearts

The miracle reveals.

Are we singing with the angels

Alleluias in the night?

Are we standing with the shepherds

At the cradle’s side?

Are we traveling with the wise ones

Following the star?

Do we understand the message,

The meaning of the child?

Are our arms filled with wonder?

Are our eyes filled with sight?

Do we see the child we’re holding

In Heaven’s golden light?

Are our minds filled with wonder?

Are our spirits filled with light?

Do we know each baby given

Is Heaven’s Golden Child?

Have we really heard the story?

Do we know who we are?

Every child is the Christ Child

If we choose to receive

The children sent from Heaven

To our waiting arms in need.

Every child is the Christ Child

Who will save us today

If we open wide our hearts

Let the child lead the way.

Amen. Amen.

Christie Smith Stephens

copyright, 12/7/04

Memories of My Summer Adventure

As winter descends upon us with increasing intensity, I am remembering those warm summer days during my adventure on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. My hiking friend and I had dreamed and schemed about this trip for several years and finally committed to making it happen. Landing on a dirt airstrip in a propeller plane, sleeping in a conestoga wagon, flying on a helicopter into the canyon, rafting for three days on the Colorado River, sleeping on a cot in the canyon in the wide open spaces, gazing at the endless night sky before drifting off to sleep then being awakened by the intense light from the moon as it appeared over the canyon rim, the list goes on as new experiences for me, things I never dreamed I would ever do. And there I was, as a new grandmother who had just spent four months with my granddaughter in the Pacific Northwest, ending a wonderful summer with this trip. Yet experiences like these are never complete without the interaction that occurs with others and relationships that are developed with those who are part of the adventure. We connect with some immediately and perhaps even intensely, and sometimes develop lifetime relationships from these shared experiences. Because we are in this special place at this time, our adventure is unique only to us. And because of that, we must pay attention to our place in the universe and continue to search for meaning in these special opportunities that are presented to us.

Carson

gifts

snow powders
the tired face
of winter earth
giving the lift
needed
dressing mother
in a pretty party dress
adorning her
for this season
of proud trees
sparkling icicles
delighted joy filled
children
whose anticipation of
closed schools
sledding hills
fun with friends
hot chocolate
makes their grandparents
young again

christie smith stephens
12/13/2010

Jinx

The weather has been "frightful" lately. And Jinx is a cat who lives in the neighborhood but doesn't seem to want to stay in his home. He ingratiates himself to those in the neighborhood who will take him in, feed him, and keep him out of the cold. Jinx has been showing up at our back door for several years. We would give him a treat, then he would be on his way. But over time, he has managed to come inside, eat heartily, and stay well beyond his welcome. Since we lost our beloved 18 year old cat Sunny earlier this year, we are suckers to "feel the fur" to soothe the soul.

So, with the extremely cold temperatures causing Jinx to resist a return to the outdoors, we have allowed him to stay with us for the past three nights. The first night he was given the freedom to stay inside the house. But after a rather sleepness night from his restlessness, he was banished to the garage with a blanket. I feel guilty about that, so at first dawn I'm up and letting him come inside, although when I pick him up, he is quite warm and not endangered in the least.

He is here again tonight, so we shall continue to protect him from the elements. He is a 15 pound solid black furball, but a lovable furball for cat lovers like us. So, we will indulge him until he decides to return home or settle in with another neighbor!

A friendship interrupted

Where do you begin the conversation when you have not seen a friend in over thirty years?   Cindy and I decided to begin the conversation in the present and move back in time.  Classmates from first grade to high school graduation, we had a lot of history to discuss. 

Talking for nearly three hours, it was impossible for use to sufficiently uncover all of what has happened in our lives.  Lord knows, we tried …

Cindy’s launch of her new business, “Full Circle Charleston”… life in Charleston, South Carolina, Lexington, KY, marriage, children…our sisters… my brothers…her brother…

Giggles at recess…Mr. Rumble’s threats to send me to the “Big House”…Our bus driver, Mr. Jones...driving slow to check the progress of the year’s corn crops… high school teachers… what ever happened to this friend?

As the new waitress came to our table, we decided get together soon, maybe  coordinate an Eden Elementary Reunion.  We cannot wait for another thirty years. 

Lunch @ Frankie Bones in Hilton Head

Christmas Ornament 

blessed are the women

blessed are the women

who though no longer young

refuse to be old

blessed are the women

who pull themselves out of bed

each morning

even when every bone aches

blessed are the women

who keep moving

keep involved

who care how the world turns out

even when they will no longer be here

blessed are the women

who dye their hair if they think it needs it

those who more than their hairdressers know

the truth of their roots

blessed are the women

who go gray and don’t see

what the problem is

blessed are the women

who put on their make up

more than gloss their lips

those painted ladies

for whom it is maybelline

no maybe it’s not about it

blessed are the women

whose wrinkles are the lines

in the amazing love stories

of their lives

blessed are the women

who show up when needed

who fix food send flowers

who sit with friends in the hospital

who pick them up when they

can no longer drive

who remind them when

they can no longer remember

blessed are the women

who have to bury husbands

who grieve and grieve

and would never dream

of finding someone good enough

to take their places

blessed are the women

who get married again

who think the last one

is the best one

blessed are the women

who pour praise upon their friends

who suffer with them in their losses

who celebrate their new found life

who are friends in every season

no matter what

no matter what

for of such is the

household of earth

as it is in heaven

blessed are the women. . .

christie 2006 and 2010

on growing older with friends

who also grow older

especially thinking of

the Jo March Club in

Anderson

Will you be my friend?

 "At its core, life is not about things, it is about relationships.  It is the hands we go holding in our hearts at the end that define the kind of life we have led. Our relationships determine the quality of life as we have know it.  They show us the face of God on Earth.   They are, too what batter our hearts into the feelings of life."  Joan Chittister, The Gift of Years 


Earlier this year, I send a request via Facebook  to my friend Christie, "Will you be my friend?"  Friends since the 1980's, we share a special bond from our work together at the YWCA in Anderson. Visiting at Starbucks in Anderson, the years melt away as we talk about our shared history.  We are laughing one minute, the next, tears are slipping down my cheeks.

Christie Smith Stephens & Stanley Stephens

The joy of a renewed friendships

together

we weren't all

under the same roof

but we were

all together

separation is a

spiritual condition

something Tillich

labels sin

communion is a

spiritual reality

something unbroken

called love

we aren't all

under the same roof

but we are

all together

above and beneath

the stars

thanks be!

christie/thanksgiving, 2010

Engraved on the palms of His hands...

How can you comfort a friend?  What words of wisdom do you share?  What do you say when a friend is struggling?  Maybe they are experiencing a loss. Whatever the situation, when we point others to a loving God, we trust in His grace to meet their needs.  

A friend shared  this scripture many years ago, "Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.  Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands. (Isaiah 49:16) What a comfort to me, God never forgets His children.

being there

it's the kind of relationship

where you had to be there

if you weren't there then

you can't go there now

so much happened

eyewitnesses and participants both

we speak in half sentences

knowing what is meant

the reference point---fixed

constant in our minds and hearts

we know where we were on that boat

just before it went down

we were moving chairs and singing

when nothing else could help love lifted me

trying to save the ship passengers crew

but the captain was going

headlong for the berg

we made it to the shore

lived to tell the story

we are stronger for it

other ships and seas

are smooth sailing

compared to that voyage

these years later

meeting under the star

still singing John 3:16

we remember the ride

talking as good friends

should and do

with humor only survivors

can understand

our hearts go on

it's the kind of relationship

deep friendship

where you had to be there

and she was . . .

**************************

for Jacqueline

with profound appreciation

and abiding love, 11-21-10

Christie

sparrow, a song

do the birds count sheep

when they cannot sleep

retrace in their minds

trips they have flown

do they fret about babies

now on their own

do they beg the favor of god

do the birds down pills

sip warm milk

when their nests give no rest

do they toss do they turn

do they ache do they yearn

waiting for the morn

or do the birds sleep undisturbed

dreaming the sweetest dreams

do they fly do they soar

as never before

catching the currents and streams

or do the birds sleep undisturbed

beyond forty winks

do they fly do they soar

forevermore

knowing the eye never blinks

august, 2010, published november 15, 2010

copyright ecss

Today I return to Oregon to visit my precious granddaughter. I am always apprehensive about flying, but see it as essential in order to visit family. I will be part of the "village" she needs in order to be cared for and nurtured while her babysitter is away. A good book and a neck pillow seem to ease the angst of flying.

The other day as I was hiking in a beautiful area of southern Kentucky, I tried to blend my being with nature by asking myself this question: If I could be a rock or moving water which would I want to be? A rock is solid, strong, secure, changing little over time, always there. A stream is fluid, ever changing, always moving. Yet water is still always there, just changing forms. They both have qualities that I both admire and disdain. Where would I fall in the comparison or better yet, which would I prefer to be?

Light

My friend Carol was diagnosed with cancer last week. The following poem is her story from childhood. She told me this in response to a Leonard Cohen lyric: "There is a crack in everything that's how the light gets in." Your prayers for Carol are deeply appreciated.

Leonard's Lyric

She remembers

The farm at night

Dark hayloft

Straw sticking her legs

Eerie for a city child

Unused to rural life

Lying on stacked bales

Her mind wanders

Wondering what

Might be lurking

In the midnight corners

She is grateful

For the barn roof cracks

Allowing tiny streams of

Starlight to enter

To shine To take away

Her fear

In the distance

A bird sings

Of Michigan and

Long ago

Christie for Carol

praying for starlight

with love, September 28, 2010

Relaxing

 I am thankful for a full life.  After years of a wonderful part time job, I am in the midst of seeking full time employment.    Today, I was taking tests... answering questions...screening...
It was a stressful day. I came home and lit a candle.  Peace and quiet can do wonders to quiet my spirit. 

Poem for November 1st

Thank you, Jacqueline, for the kind invitation to be a part of this conversation.
My husband Stan had surgery, 4 bypasses of left artery near the heart, four weeks ago.
He is doing well.

Poem for November 1st

Rarely have I been
So grateful for
November
With its almost bare trees
Brown limbs stretching
Against the dark morning
Of shortening days
But this year
November feels a lot like
Fresh air deep breath
The hopeful season of
Sunshine green buds
Buttercup rising
Robin appearing
Singing at daybreak as
Life begins again. . .

Thanksgiving.

Christie, 2010

Newcomer to the Blog

This is my first post to the blog after much encouragement from my friend Jacqueline. As a new retiree and grandmother, much has occurred for me over the past year. I have enjoyed the fall back in Lexington by participating as a volunteer in the World Equestrian Games (WEG) and entertaining friends and family who take advantage of our "B&B" for the activities the Bluegrass has to offer its residents and visitors. My good friend from college came to visit last week and I must laugh about the activities we packed in for the 5 days she was here. These included: the WEG as a guest (not volunteer) on the final day, a tour of the Thoroughbred Center, a tour of Woodford Reserve, the races at Keeneland, a trip to the town of Midway, shopping ( of course), and seeing Secretariat on the evening before she left. She was very happy with what she experienced and for me there are always new things to learn from each experience, even if I have been there more than once.

I will provide more about becoming a grandmother and retirement in the posts to follow.

Sharing a good short story

This is a very good short story about life. Thought you might like to
read it.

Lisa Beamer on Good Morning America - If you remember, she's the
wife of Todd Beamer who said 'Let's Roll!' and helped take down the
plane over Pennnsylvania that was heading for Washington DC back on
9/11.

She said it's the little things that she misses most about Todd,
such as hearing the garage door open as he came home, and her children
running to meet him. She's now the Mom of a beautiful little girl, Mary.

Lisa recalled this story:
"I had a very special teacher in high school many years ago
whose husband died suddenly of a heart attack. About a week after his
death, she shared some of her insight with a classroom of students. As
the late afternoon sunlight came streaming in through the classroom
windows and the class was nearly over, she moved a few things aside on
the edge of her desk and sat down there.
With a gentle look of reflection on her face, she paused and
said, ' Class is over, I would like to share with all of you, a thought
that is unrelated to class, but which I feel is very important. Each of
us is put here on earth to learn, share, love, appreciate and give of
ourselves. None of us knows when this fantastic experience will end. It
can be taken away at any moment.
Perhaps this is God's way of telling us that we must make the
most out of every single day. Her eyes, beginning to water, she went on,
'So I would like you all to make me a promise. From now on, on your way
to school, or on your way home, find something beautiful to notice.
It doesn't have to be something you see, it could be a scent,
perhaps of freshly baked bread wafting out of someone's house, or it
could be the sound of the breeze slightly rustling the leaves in the
trees, or the way the morning light catches one autumn leaf as it falls
gently to the ground. Please look for these things, and cherish them.
For, although it may sound trite to some, these things are the "stuff"
of life. The little things we are put here on earth to enjoy. The things
we often take for granted.
The class was completely quiet. We all picked up our books and
filed out of the room silently. That afternoon, I noticed more things on
my way home from school than I had that whole semester. Every once in a
while, I think of that teacher and remember what an impression she made
on all of us, and I try to appreciate all of those things that sometimes
we all overlook.
Take notice of something special you see on your lunch hour
today. Go barefoot. Or walk on the beach at sunset. Stop off on the way
home tonight to get a double dip ice cream cone. For as we get older, it
is not the things we did that we often regret, but the things we didn't
do.
Life is not measured by the number
of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

Wordless Wednesday

Courageous Church

I am happy and blessed to say that after 2 long years, Gus and I think we have finally found a church home here in GA. Over the last 2 years, we've visited numerous churches, but none seemed quite right for both of us. God works in mysterious ways. I found out about this church when I was attending a funeral for Sharon Smith, my parent's best friend, in Georgetown, KY several weeks ago. Sharon's son spoke to me about the pastor, Shaun King, and the Courageous Church. Of all places, in KY, at a funeral, I hear about a church in GA....

Gus and I look forward to being a part of Courageous Church and continuing to grow our relationship with God.

bwyl
dama

Visit twitchange.com to help ahomeinhaiti.org
Learn more about Courageous Church at courageous.tv

Maggie Mae

I am proud to announce that my Golden Retriever, Maggie Mae, passed the certification for Therapy Dog Certification. We will be making visits to Nursing Homes and anywhere we are needed to pass along the opportunity to feel the love and warmth of petting a dog. Dogs can be very healing. Maggie Mae has the sweetest disposition and loves everyone. She is a natural!

"I have a dog and sometimes I'll be the littlest kid with my dog and marvel at his ears and his nose and how he looks at me. If he died, I'd bawl like a baby."

Aaron Eckhart

Wordless Wednesday

Save with Groupon

This website is very similar to the livingsocial.com website. It works the same way, each day they feature something at an unbelievable low price for your city. Today I paid $25 and got $50 worth of apparel at the GAP, so I saved 50%. I can go to any GAP between now and Nov. 19 and use my "groupon." You can join, by clicking on the link below and selecting your city and entering your email address.

www.groupon.com/r/uu6100019

bwyl
dama

Wordless Wednesday

Savor every minute of summer vacation

Imagine a small train car with a few weary travelers... the car is almost empty... with every stop we are one step closer to our destination.....
Then, at one stop in Wisconsin... enter... grandmother... grandchildren....
Grandma explains, "We are trying out train travel." For an hour, the car is full of squeals, smiles, and laughter.

As vacation time slowly slips away, you may want to  start planning for next year.
Interested in winning free vacation travel?  Try this, in one google search, I discovered over " 7,680,000 hits. Vacation destinations included the following: Puerto Rico, Royal Caribbean Cruise, Florida, Wisconsin...deadlines were from mid to late August and September.  I hope some of contests are legitmate.  Vacations are not an indulgance, we need time to refresh and relax.  

fyi... train travel can be very affordable...

A Friendship Prayer and Blessing!

Hello Ladies:

....hope each of you are doing well and off to a great week. I received a nudge to send the following prayer to you - -I am declaring this blessing over each of you and by faith, I am expecting it to manifest in your life....each and every word spoken! Here goes:

Now, may the Lord bless you....and may the Lord keep you and may the Lord make His face to shine upon you and may the Lord be gracious to you with favor and give you....His Peace.

May the Lord cause the hope of salvation to explode in your heart, your soul, your mind and your body. Whatever you have been going through - may He empower you to forget it...and, cast it upon HIM. And, whatever you're going to - may He anoint you to enjoy it because you are the child of the Most High God. He desires for your life to go from Glory...to Glory, and from Victory...to Victory!

May you....Jacqueline, Edie, Dama, Mary Beth and Lisa...and, all others...continue to walk in divine HOPE....the hope that helps you to accomplish the dreams of your life; God wants to give you the desires of your heart....

Therefore, Hope....HOPE thou in God!

Have a wonderful week,
Charlene

Great New Website - Living Social

I found this great website called livingsocial.com. This website is amazing if you are looking for things to do where you live, getting ready to travel to another city and to get great "Deals of the Day." Pretty much every day or every other day, the website will e-mail you a "Deal of the Day" for the city you select. Today I bought a 1-hour facial at a medical spa for $38.00 (a $120.00 value, 71% savings). Other deals I've seen were a bi-plane ride over Atlanta for $70+, a 2-hour limo ride for 10 people for $80 and 50% of specific restaurants.

Sign up to get your "Deal of the Day." Once you reach the website you enter your address to start receiving the "Deals." The website will usually default to Washington D.C., but once you click "Send Me Free Deals" you will have the option to select other cities. You can create a free Living Socials account or use your Facebook login in order to join and have the ability to select multiple cities once your account is created.

https://livingsocial.com/redeem_invite/3829575-aelee1?ref=Ink

Enjoy the savings! Plus it links you to 365 things to do in the city you select!

bwyl
dama

My grandchildren

My grandson, Matthew, who lives in Cincinnati visited his Aunt Sara, Taylor and myself for five days. Taylor and Aunt Sara live near me and I am blessed to see them frequently. I watch Taylor three days a week and see her often. It was so good to spend quality time with my grandson and grandaughter. We wore them out. We planned several activities. We went to our local park. It's beautiful! We took my two dogs, Lucy, a chocolate lab, and Maggie Mae, a golden retriever and hiked the trails. Maggie Mae loves to swim in the lake and had a very nice swim. The kids played on the playground equipment then headed home. The days all rolled one into the other, but we took them to the pool, had a slumber party at Aunt Sara's, roasted hot dogs, made s'mores and watched a movie until they fell asleep. It didn't take long. We took them to see Despicable Me. Great movie! I took Taylor and Matthew to the zoo while Aunt Sara worked on Tuesday. Matthew had never seen the dolphin show so I was sure to arrive early so we could sit in the front row. I wanted to make sure Matthew got splashed by the dolphins. He loved it. It's so nice to have a piece of my son. I see so much of him in my grandson. Matthew still misses his Dad very much and wants God to send him back. So hard for a five year old.

The grandchildren are very much alike and really enjoy spending time together. Grandchildren are such a blessing. I look forward to more visits from Matthew and watching them grow together!

Wordless Wednesday

Organizing lunch with friends...

Having lunch with friends doesn't just happen... someone has to organize the lunch, make phone calls, check  schedules, decide where to eat... It has been months, since I have had the chance to visit with Carol and Angela.  At the end of our time together, I posed the question... how are we making a difference in the lives of people? As mothers, we strive guide to available to our adult children. Listening... encouraging... and sharing... We share our volunteer experiences... Over the past few weeks, I have a longing to do something more.... I don't know what that is... but I am praying about how to mentor young mother, tutor students.... I think this longing is a God desire to do more...

While we long to serve, in many ways, we already are... caring for grandchildren, visiting a family member whose memories are slowly fading, being available to our adult children, teaching children...  my heart is serve God's people and reach out to those in need... meeting with friends is more than having lunch. What a blessing... Carol did the organizing...

Wordless Wednesday

Tasty Tuesday

Cut Out Sugar Cookies

These are my go-to cookies for all of the holidays. Be sure to chill the dough well.


1 C margarine, softened
1 1/2 C confectioner's sugar
1 egg
1 t vanilla
1/2 t almond extract
2 1/2 C all purpose flour
1 t baking soda

Mix thoroughly the first 5 ingredients. Blend in flour and baking soda. Cover, chill overnight.

Heat oven to 375. Divide dough in half. Roll each half 1/4 inch thick on lightly floured cloth covered board. Cut into desired shapes. Place on parchment covered baking sheets. Bake 7-8 minutes or until light brown on edge.

Special Icing
4 C confectioner's sugar
1 large egg white
water

Beat sugar into egg white, adding 1 T of water or enough to produce the thickness of frosting that you want.

Enjoy
~Hoochmom~

Summer Foods we love

Summer is my favorite time of year for eating! There are so many fresh fruits and vegetables available. I believe I was over eager when shopping last week. I bought strawberries, blueberries, watermelon, fresh pineapple, nectarines, grapes, bananas, romain lettuce, carrots, fresh green beans, sweet corn. My refrigerator is bulging. I've begun enjoying the cucumbers and tomatoes (red and yellow, large and cherries) from our garden. Green peppers will be ready soon. Herbs are readying for harvest, fresh dill, rosemary, Italian parsley, thyme, oregano and fragrant lavendar, my favorite scent. I love that this opens up so many different meal ideas and healthier choices. Here comes the rain I've been hoping for to water my flowers and garden and our poor parched yard. Nothing like a fresh summertime rain.

We are firing up the grill tonight (once the rain stops) to grill some chicken and prepare a fresh salad for a grilled chicken salad, grill the sweet corn, grill some fresh bread with butter and garlic, then finish the meal with a fresh fruit salad. If you're not hungry after reading this...you surely will be soon.

May you all enjoy the bountiful food that summer brings!

Wordless Wednesday

Tasty Tuesday

Smack Yo Mama Mac and Cheese

I was looking for this recipe in my files and couldn't find it. Finally found it under "vegetables"! Guess my southern roots are showing...

This is so good it will make you "smack yo mama".


Smack Yo Mama Mac and Cheese
1 lb elbow or shell macaroni, cooked
8 T butter
1/2 C shredded muenster cheese
1/2 C shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 C shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 C half & half
4 oz Velveeta, cut into small cubes
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 t seasoned salt
1/8 t pepper

Preheat oven to 350. Grease a 2 1/2 qt deep casserole dish. In a large saucepan melt butter. Add cooked macaroni. Add remaining ingredients, stir well. Transfer to casserole dish. Bake for 35 minutes or until bubbly.

Enjoy!
~Hoochmom~

Visit to Stone Mountain

Today Gus and I made it out of the house and paid a visit to Stone Mountain, GA. Stone Mountain is home to the world's largest relief carving on the world's largest mass of exposed granite, and over 3200 acres of forest and miles of trails.

We enjoyed the hot yet not so humid 90 degree weather while doing the Sky Hike and playing miniature golf. The Sky Hike is a 1/4 mile ropes course up in the "sky." There are three levels to the course, 12 ft, 24 ft and 40 ft. Gus and I traveled along the ropes on the 24 ft and 40 ft levels. It's an activity that takes some nerve, balance and upper body strength in order to make it to the end. All in all it was a great time and we plan to visit again. Next time we plan to hike up the mountain...

http://www.stonemountainpark.com/

Organizing my interior life

Organizing my prayer life... I want to be more effective and intentional in my prayer life.  This morning, I was able to spend more time in devotion and in prayer. While I pray every day, I want to experience more of God.  I don't want to be "busy" and forget the most important part of my life.  I desire to have God's wisdom... and have Him direct me....

O God, thou art my God; Early will I seek You

Psalm 63:1

Tasty Tuesday

We celebrated a rainy Independence Day this year, but that didn't stop the ice cream making.





Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream
Cooking with Paula Deen Magazine

4 C sliced fresh strawberries
1/2 C sugar
2 C heavy whipping cream
2 14oz cans sweetened condensed milk
4 C half&half
2 t vanilla

In a food processor combine strawberries and sugar. Process until chopped fine.
In a mixer, beat cream at medium high speed until soft peaks form. Add condensed milk and mix until combined. Add half and half, vanilla and strawberry mixture.

Pour into the container of an electric ice cream freezer. Freeze according to manufacturer's instructions. When finished ice cream will be soft. For a firmer texture, freeze for 2-3 hours. Enjoy!

~Hoochmom~

The Star-Spangled Banner (History)

Our New Patio

Well after about 10+ trips to Home Depot, a visit from my parents and a lot of hard work by my Dad, we have a new patio. My dad laid stone pavers and built a wooden pergola for our backyard. Gus and I had originally planned to build a deck (a very large deck), but after determining the cost and the amount of time it would take, we decided to go in another direction. Our new plan to have the pergola and pavers cost about a 1/3 of what the deck was going to cost us.

My parents were here last week and my dad spent most of his vacation working on this project for us. Laying stone pavers and building a pergola was a first for him, but he did a fantastic job. Gus and I absolutely love what he was able to do.

Our next plan is to purchase real patio furniture. We're hoping to get a good deal after the July 4th holiday.

bwyl

dama

Creating order

There is such beauty in order. As I have worked to create more order in my home and outside, there is more peace in my life. I had a small mess in my backyard.  Flowers needed to be planted, pots needed to be tossed , and containers needed to be arranged.  Now, flowers are in pots where their roots have space to grow. Sick or faded blooms have been plucked.  For now, things look better... one thing about weeds, they keep coming back. 

Wordless Wednesday

~Hoochmom~

Tasty Tuesday

Peanut Butter Pie

Betsy has been requesting this pie as her dessert for Red Plate Dinners since 3rd grade. It's a rich pie, so a little goes a long way.

1-already pie crust, baked and cooled
Chocolate Layer:
1/2 C semi-sweet chocolate chips
1T butter
2-3t water
1/4C powdered sugar
In a small saucepan, combine the 1st 3 ingredients. Stir until smooth. Add powdered sugar, blend until smooth. Spread mixture on bottom and sides of cooled piecrust.

Filling:
1 C margarine
1C brown sugar
1C peanut butter
12 oz Coolwhip, thawed
In a medium saucepan combine margarine and brown sugar. Cook until mixture is smooth. Refrigerate 10 minutes. In a mixer, beat mixture and peanut butter at a low speed. Beat 1 minute on high speed. Add Coolwhip, beat 1 minute at low speed or until mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour into chocolate coated pie shell.

Topping:
1/2C semi-sweet chocolate chips
1T butter
2-3 t milk
1 1/2t corn syrup
In a small saucepan melt all ingredients. Spoon over filling, carefully spread to cover. Refrigerate at least 2 hours to set.

Decorate with whipped cream if desired.
Betsy's Red Plate Dinner was for making honor roll. Congratulations!

~Hoochmom~

People

People come into your life for a reason

www.youtube.com

Life Lessons Music Produced By : Tomiko Native Spirit http://www.myspace.com/tomiko941

Enjoy this beautiful presentation. I feel it is so true!

Mary Beth

Organizing my trips

Planning is a time saver. Once time is gone, it can never be replaced, so I am trying to make the most of efficient use of my time. I have been guilty of driving to the grocery store for one item that I forgot.  What a waste of time and energy! Getting lost, another waste of time.  Trip AAA, Map Quest, and GPS are tools that help us who are challenged with directions. This June, we have had to arrange our visits to coincide with the schedules of family and friends.  Another benefit of planning trips, we get to visit family in St. Louis,children in Omaha, and friends in Kansas. 

Who is the best guide?

"By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night.  Exodus 13:21

Charity Rides on the Harley

One of my favorite past times is riding my motorcycle. Certainly love being with my biker friends... they're more than friends; they're family -- like my church family.
But one of the things our Harley Owners Group enjoys doing the most is going on rides to raise funds for different charities.
We support three charities every year with winnings from Poker Runs (we pay $10 - $20 to go on a ride, stop to draw a card at each stop, and at the end of the ride, we split the money between the person who draws the best hand and the charities. We also pay to go on designated rides and have auctions at the end to benefit charities such as; God's Pantry, Blue Star Mothers (mothers who have sons fighting for our freedom overseas), Hospice of the Bluegrass, Shriner's Children Hospital, and many more.
On August 21, we will be doing a Poker Run Ride to the Galilean Children's Home in Liberty, KY. We will clean out our closets and drawers, and take T-shirts to the home, pay $10 to go on the Poker Run, and buy McDonald's gift cards for the children with the money we raise. Once at there, some of us will take the children for a ride on the motorcycles. You wouldn't believe how excited they get when they hear the rumble of the engines, and see the T-shirts! What a blessing it is for us to be able to pay such a small sum to have so much fun!!!
"The Galilean Children's Home, located in Liberty, Kentucky, is a non-profit organization that cares for children from all over the world that have been abused, neglected, rejected, are in need of medical treatment, or are placed here for a Christian education. The Home relies on donations from the public and fundraisers for their support." http://www.galileanhome.org/
Shine on!
~Edie

Tasty Tuesday

German Chocolate Cake
Another birthday at work. This is the requested cake. Adapted from the Chocolate Cake Mix Doctor

Frosting
1 1/2 C chopped pecans
1 - 7 oz sweetened flake coconut (2 1/3 C)
1 - 12 oz evaporated milk
1 1/2 C sugar
12T butter
4 large egg yolks, slightly beaten
1 1/2t vanilla

Spread the pecans and coconut on a baking sheet. Toast for 7 minutes or until browned. Remove from oven and set aside.

Place next 5 ingredients in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly until thickened and golden brown, 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in pecans and coconut. Cool to room temperature, 30 minutes or more.

Cake Layers
1 box German chocolate cake mix
1 C buttermilk
1/2 C vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 t vanilla extract
8 oz mini chocolate chips

Grease two 9" cake pans. Preheat oven to 350. Place first 5 ingredients in mixer. Blend on low speed for 1 minute. Scrape bowl and blend 2 minutes on medium. Add mini chips. Divide batter into pans. Bake 32-24 minutes. Let cool in pan 5 minutes. Invert onto rack and cool completely.

Frost between layers and on top of cake. Enjoy!

~Hoochmom~

Birthdays

June is a big month for birthdays iu my family. My oldest son was born on my 19th birthday on June 9th. My daughter was born 33 years ago today, June 17th. A cousin born June 8th, a nephew June 10th.

I love birthdays. They are a celebration of life! It was sad this year celebrating without my son. However, we launched a sky lantern in honor of him. Knowing my son, he's celebrating in heaven, I'm sure.

I will soon have another reason to celebrate. My daughter, Sara, is in Mobile, Alabama visiting her boyfriend that she met 10 years ago in Florida. They dated long distance for a couple of years, but called it quits, as they were still very young and long distance relationships can be difficult. Joe is in the Coast Guard and has been responsible for many brave rescues. Now he teaches the rescuers and tests them for certification. Joe looked Sara up on Facebook and they re-started the relationship. Unbeknownst to Sara, he is taking her to Destin, Florida today where he will propose to her. He called my husband and I last week and asked for our blessings. Joe is everything I could ever want in a husband and father for my grandchildren. I expect Sara's response to be a very enthusiastic yes. I will be anxious to hear from her and see her upon her return on Monday.

1 Corinthians 6:17 NIV But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit.

You are a child of God, His treasured possession. He created you in His own image. He chose the day for you to be born. He has a plan and a purpose for your life.

Where are my keys.?

Organization is a beautiful thing.  I love clean closets, drawers, desks, cabinets,spices, jewelry, books, reports,shoes, panties, t-shirts, etc,... the list could go on and on.. Having an organized life is a time saver. Organizing my kitchen helps me prepare grocery lists and menus.  It also helps me save money by not wasting food.  Each Wednesday, I will share how I am working on organizing my life.  

 Psalm 37:23   

Here is the before picture...

 Clean it out

Toss out dated stuff

Can you tell the difference?

Tasty Tuesday

Perfect Pizza Crust

I've been making this crust for almost 25 years. The original recipe came from Country Living magazine. I've made a few changes.



1C bread flour
1C all-purpose flour
1 package rapid rise yeast
1/2 t salt
2/3 C warm water (120-130 degrees)
1 T olive oil
1 T honey

Combine the first 4 ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix oil and honey in warm water. Combine ingredients and mix for 3-5 minutes with dough hook. Let rise in an oiled bowl, covered for 30 minutes. Punch down, place in greased pan and top with pizza ingredients.
Bake at 425 for 12-15 minutes depending on the thickness.

I like making pizza in a well seasoned cast iron skillet. Better than Pizza Hut! Enjoy.

~Hoochmom~

Let's MEET....and GREET...VIRTUALLY!

I Have an Idea!

Hello Jacqueline, Dama, Edie, Lisa and MaryBeth! Hope each of you are doing well.
I can't believe how fast the months are passing; we're nearly half-way through the year!

Speaking of time...
It's been a few months since Jacqueline inspired us to blog. What a G-R-E-A-T idea. I'd like to suggest that we meet and greet virtually to become acquainted....introduce ourselves, share our thoughts about how to continue the blog, laugh and whatever else we might want to do for 30-minutes.

I've checked the possibility to Skype, but each of us would need a camera on our computers to do this - - So, let's make this easy. Let's do a "Meet-Me-Line" conference call. It's fast, easy and nothing to connect.

All I need is your availability for SUNDAY, JUNE 27....that's it!

Blog me back by Saturday, June 19 with the time you're available to chat for 30 minutes on June 27 and I'll set it up!

Blog me with:

- - Time frame you're open to chat on Sun. June 27 (including your time zone)

- - Any ideas/suggestions that you'd like us to do during the 30-minutes

...Don't forget, I'll need your response by June 19 to set everything up.

Looking forward to our "Meet and Greet!"

Journey to South Korea

In less than 12 hours I will begin my journey along with 90 other co-workers to South Korea. This is the second time in the last year that I've had the opportunity to travel to South Korea with my company. We leave tomorrow and will return the following Saturday. I am excited, but a little nervous, because I am responsible for making sure that 30 team members make it to and from South Korea safely. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers during this time.

My snack list for the trip:
2 cans of Pringles
1 can of Lays Stax
1 jar of Jif
1 box of Cheez-Its
1 box of Townhouse Flipsides
1 bag of Rolos
8 Zone Bars
1 package of Ritz Cheese & Crackers
1 bottle of soy sauce

If you can't tell, I am not looking for to the cuisine over there. I am such a picky eater, so for the week, I will survive on snacks, rice and bread.

bwyl
dama