Blessed Femina

Thoughtful Thursday...

2012-01-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

"Love is patient and kind;
love does not envy or boast;
it is not arrogant or rude.

It does not insist on its own way;
it is not irritable or resentful;
it does not rejoice at wrongdoing,
but rejoices with the truth.

Love bears all things,
believes all things,
hopes all things,
endures all things.

Love never ends."
-I Corinthians 13:4-8

photo courtesy- flickr

Remembering 2011....

2012-01-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

Looking back on a...

Year Gone By

"So let us leave the old year with gratitude to God for its mercies..."

-J.R. Miller

This is a good time to ponder, learn & rejoice in the many sweet

blessings that God has given us over the passed year.

2011 was such a splendid year full of many

sweet delights.... indeed.

Here are but a few of my favorite memories,

{highlights} from 2011.

It was a good year...

In the Kitchen

Radicchio and Arugula Salad with Roasted Pepper
Dressing and Burrata Crostini

Glazed Ribs

with creamy mashed potatoes & caramelized shallots

mmmmm! ;)

Roast Chicken Noodle Soup with Caramelized

Leeks, Peas & Garnished with Dill

Chicken Picatta

Chocolate Cake with a Raspberry Filling
and Rich Chocolate Ganache

Floating Islands with Crème Anglaise,

sprinkled with Praline and drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Crème Brûlée with Raspberries & Mint

Double-Chocolate Bundt Cake with Ganache Glaze

Chocolate Bread Pudding with Chocolate Ganache & Fresh Whipped Cream

It was a good year...
for sewing & crafting

Knitting with ribbon yarn... loved it!

Dying Eggs

Stenciling on eggs... SO fun!

Pinwheels

Handstamped Cards

Pink {Crocheted} Baby Hat ♥

It was a year of

sweet fellowship...

Sipping tea and fellowshipping with the dear Smiths

{A highlight of the year}

Posing with the Smith girls

Amber, Kami and I pose after a wonderful lunch.

Dancing with my Uncle Josh...

one of the 3 weddings we attended this year.

Mom and I posing at my cousin's wedding

Rachel & I pose on New Year's the last night of 2011

Happy Threesome

{Rachel, Natalia Grace & I}

This year we lost our darling dog-

Tessa Marie {she served us well for 14 years...

and will forever be in our hearts}

It was a year to bask in

God's Marvelous creation...

sweet road tripping memories.... ;)

Lake Tahoe

Sunset at Tahoe

"smell the roses..." --I did! ♥

"He hath made every thing beautiful in his time."

-Ecclesiastes 3:11

"To everything there is a season..."

"Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him,

all creatures here below; Praise Him above,

ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."

-Doxology

Butterfly at Filoli Gardens

Thus~ ended a Beautiful 2011

Soli Deo Gloria.

What are some of the rich blessings that

you were grateful for in the year of 2011?

~Many Blessings to all of you~

Lord's Day...

2012-01-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
consider all the works thy hand hath made,
I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder,
thy power throughout the universe displayed:

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God; to thee,
How great thou art, how great thou art!

Hope all of you had a blessed Sunday!

Feminine Diligence...

2012-01-06T14:10:00.000-08:00

“We must aggressively subdue and not passively loiter….. Basking in the satisfaction of a job well done, restfully praising the Lord for the work He’s enabled our hands to do. The completed projects act as gratifying and comfortable footstools for our feet. We are able to say….. “That week of work was good, very good.” (Genesis 1:31) –Womanly Dominion

Whilst cleaning rooms yesterday, I was thinking about the importance of doing every chore, task, and duty with great dignity, strength and neatness… Cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms ironing shirts, drying dishes and folding clothes should not be tasks we are trying to get done quickly, sloppily or in a rush. Rather think of each chore with delight… think of yourself as a CEO of your home, the President in residence of homemaking. Create a presence of warmth, tidyness and cleanliness in your home, so… that others will feel welcome and calmed when they enter your living quarters....

Read more {of my post} over at~ Raising Homemakers

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T22:17:00.000-08:00

May the Lord richly bless you in this new year-- 2012!

Love~ Miss Jen

"To every thing there is a season,
and a time to every purpose"
-Ecc 3:1

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T23:29:00.000-08:00

"For unto you is born this day in the city
of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
-Luke 2:11 ♥

Hope you had a richly blessed Christmas!

It's beginning to look a lot like....

2011-12-20T23:45:00.000-08:00

...Christmas! ♥

Lord's Day...

2011-12-04T22:22:00.000-08:00

Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming from tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse’s lineage coming, as men of old have sung.
It came, a floweret bright, amid the cold of winter,
When half spent was the night.

Isaiah ’twas foretold it, the Rose I have in mind;
With Mary we behold it, the virgin mother kind.
To show God’s love aright, she bore to men a Savior,
When half spent was the night.

The shepherds heard the story proclaimed by angels bright,
How Christ, the Lord of glory was born on earth this night.
To Bethlehem they sped and in the manger found Him,
As angel heralds said.

This Flower, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air,
Dispels with glorious splendor the darkness everywhere;
True Man, yet very God, from sin and death He saves us,
And lightens every load.

O Savior, Child of Mary, who felt our human woe,
O Savior, King of glory, who dost our weakness know;
Bring us at length we pray, to the bright courts of Heaven,
And to the endless day!

-German Carol

Hope you had a beautiful Sunday!

-Blessings-

"In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious."- Isaiah 11:10

picture courtesy- pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T20:45:00.000-08:00

"Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor-- and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. " -George Washington ♥

Happy Thanksgiving, dear readers!!

"In everything give thanks...." -1 Thessalonians 5:18

'Tis the day before Thanksgiving....

2011-11-23T11:18:00.000-08:00

Good things to remember
the day before Thanksgiving…

1. Make the Lord, family and friends your #1 priority. It is easy during the Thanksgiving rush to concentrate more on the food than on serving Christ and serving others. It is nice to have delectable food and beautiful decorations at Thanksgiving, but if these things come before the most important things then we need to reevaluate our priorities.

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: ” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. ’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” -Matthew 22:36-40

2. Smile if the turkey is dry. Yep, how many households have dry turkey on Thanksgiving? Many…I even remember reading an article where the statistics stated that most people preferred dry turkey for the simple reason that, ‘mama always made it that way.’ Though we may not hope for this outcome we can smile humbly when it happens and simply say ”please pass the gravy!”

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” -James 4:10

3. Give thanks for Jesus. Though many people do give thanks sometimes they forget who they are giving thanks to. We should be thankful for family, friends, our home and much more but if we forget to give thanks for Jesus then we have sadly missed the whole point. The pilgrims made the great journey over to this new land to express their faith freely .On Thanksgiving they were grateful for many things such as family, friends and food etc… but they were most thankful to God, for their faith in Him and their freedom to express that faith. Let’s remember this and never lose our focus about what really matters…. Jesus.

“Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” -Colossians 1:12-14

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Love~Miss Jen

A Special New Item in my Etsy Shop! ♥

2011-11-18T15:50:00.000-08:00

Custom Framed Calligraphy (Baby Name & Date)

An ideal baby gift!! Original calligraphy....
something to treasure for years to come! ♥ ♥....view item here

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-11-17T22:02:00.000-08:00

"Never was there a hand that grasped the Almighty
in vain, and never was there an earnest cry for help that
failed to reach His ear and heart." ♥
~"The Vanished Note" by Mary E. Ropes
{edited by Mary Hamby}

Hope all of you had a blessed Thursday!

“everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
-Romans 10:13

The Winner Is...

2011-11-15T23:40:00.000-08:00

::drum roll::

....Dear Lady Farmer!!

Congrats!

And... many thanks to all who entered.

Three Year Blog Anniversary Giveaway....

2011-11-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

My heart is overflowing with
gratefulness for... 3 beautiful blogging years.

I have been blessed beyond measure to meet
so many dear ones.

Each and every one of you have gifted
me with your visits, comments, insights
and delightful blogs.... I thank the Lord for you!!

In honor of this special week~

I'm very excited to announce that we will be having a giveaway.
Victorian Rose Soap Company is graciously
hosting a giveaway for their lovely soaps!
This is an ideal gift for any homemaker.

Here is a description of these wonderful soaps
made by my dear friends, the Lossings:

"We handcraft Goat’s Milk Soaps with all the finest ingredients. We use the highest quality oils of Coconut, Olive, Palm, Canola, and Castor. We make our soaps with 100% Goat's Milk, Goat’s milk enriches the skin adding nutrients and is becoming one of the most sought after body care treatments worldwide! We add butters of Shea and/or Cocoa for added smoothness, and for the vitamins and minerals they contain. We select our scents for their mood enhancing qualities and hand blend them into each of our scented soaps. Many of our designs are from the very romantic time period of the Victorian Era. Our soaps are Natural, Enviromentally friendly, and Completely Handcrafted"

These beautiful soaps come in a vast collection of delightful scents:
Sweet Orange, Lavender, Rose, Spearmint, Peppermint & the list goes on...

Check out these deeee-licious.... Chocolate Vanilla Cut Bars

"This bar smells so Delicious, not edible, but smells just like a bar of fudge! Fabulously smooth chocolate side with a slight exfoliant of the vanilla side with specks of vanilla bean in it. A favorite for men. It is combination of Shea Butter with the added emolliency of Cocoa Butter. An incredible bar!"

And... let's not forget the little ones!
Victorian Rose Soap Co. has a wonderful collection of children's soaps too!!

"Children love their own bar of soap. And it makes bath time so much more fun! Here are some of our soaps in molded shapes just for kids, or for the kid in you."

Shea Body Butter

Pamper yourself with this luxurious Shea body butter..... available in these scents:
Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Sea Buckthorn Oil & Butter Rose.

The Giveaway

Victorian Rose Soap Company is generously
giving away a $20.00 gift certificate and free shipping.
The winner will be able to choose from a very special selection of soaps.
All you have to do is comment... or leave your name and
email.... if you don't have a blog. How simple is that?!

Extra Entries:

Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or your blog.

(1 entry each, leave 1 comment each)

Visit Victorian Rose Soap Company and tell me what you love.

(2 entries, leave 2 comments)

Like Victorian Rose Soap Company on Facebook or Twitter.

(2 entries each, leave 2 comments each)

Follow Victorian Rose Soap Company on their blog. (2 entries, leave 2 comments)

Buy something from their lovely store. (5 entries, leave 5 comments)

20 percent off with the code of Blessedfemina entered into the special code voucher

Giveaway winner will be announced on November 15th!

~~

Hope you win!

Thank you Victorian Rose Soap Company!

Three Years of Blogging Bliss...

2011-11-01T00:30:00.000-07:00

{Special Post & Giveaway Coming Soon....}

"Rejoice evermore..."
-I Thessalonians 5:16

Lord's Day...

2011-10-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth, His Name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us:
The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.

-Martin Luther

Hope you had a blessed Sunday & Happy Reformation Day!

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

-Psalm 46:1

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-10-27T23:51:00.000-07:00

“It is a good rule never to look into the face of man in the
morning until you have looked into the face of God.”
–Charles Spurgeon

Hope you had a lovely Thursday!

"You have said, “Seek my face.”
My heart says to you, “Your face, LORD, do I seek.”
-Psalm 27:8

Pumpkin Bread....

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Pumpkins are simply delightful.

At our house it wouldn’t be fall without

something pumpkiny cooking in the kitchen.

This pumpkin bread is so yummy & moist…

a perfect treat for autumn."

...read more here

Lord's Day...

2011-10-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

"I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior."
-Habakkuk 3:18

{To hear Nathan Clark George sing these
beautiful words click here}

Blessings to you!

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-10-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

“A hundred years from now... it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove... but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.”

-Author Unknown

-Thursday Blessings-

"Her children rise up and bless her..." -Proverbs 31:28

Queen of the Home...

2011-10-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited about this wonderful new book~ "Queen of the Home"

compiled and edited by my friend Mrs.Jen McBride.

Have you heard about it yet?!

Here is a description:

In past generations, the role of wife and mother was viewed as a sacred calling. The committed homemaker was seen as strong, capable, intelligent, and irreplaceable. She was regarded not only as a crucial part of the home, but as a foundational bulwark of society. She was considered worthy of great honor, appreciation, and respect. Though in recent years feminists have sought to demean this glorious calling, the Bible’s hopeful vision of noble womanhood is one worth reclaiming. Queen of the Home seeks to cast that vision afresh through godly encouragements from writers past and present. This inspiring collection of essays, poetry, and poignant vignettes paints a beautiful picture of what it means for a wife to be a crown to her husband, the monarch of the cradle, and queen of the home, and calls upon daughters to embrace their rewarding role and sacred calling as regal women of God.

Doesn't this book sound delightful?

There's more--essays and quotes included by the following:

Jennie Chancey, Stacy McDonald, Beall Phillips, Kelly Crawford,

Becky Morecraft, Nancy Campbell, Karen Andreola & June Fuentes.

Be sure to stop by A Wise Woman Builds Her Home and enter in

the fabulous giveaway they are having... you won't want to miss it!

-Many Blessings-

-Proverbs 31-

It's that Time of Year...

2011-10-10T19:30:00.000-07:00

Leaves are falling...
the weather is getting chilly...
and little gourds and pumpkins
must make their appearance.

Hope all of you are enjoying these
delicious first days of Autumn.

-Many Blessings-

-Ecc 3:1-

Lord's Day....

2011-10-09T18:20:00.000-07:00

"Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."

-Psalm 103:1-2

Fun Fall Craft! ♥

2011-10-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

Love this delightful fall craft...

just had to share with all of you.

"When dipped in wax, colorful leaves can be preserved through this season and beyond. We clustered a group to suspend in a window -- perfect for greeting visitors. Stands of monofilament keep them from falling a second time..."

For further details and instructions...

Read more here!

-Ecc 3:1-

Lord's Day....

2011-10-02T21:53:00.000-07:00

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;

and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him,

and he shall direct thy paths."

-Proverbs 3:5-6

And... The Winner Is...

2011-09-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Kes!

~Congratulations~

Many thanks to all who entered in the giveaway!

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-09-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

O' for mothers to hold in their hands a child who's soul is eternal and to

grasp the vision of changing the world through her mothering as she

purposes toward multigenerational faithfulness.

To look into the eyes of her child and know that God has put a purpose for

that child here on earth--to advance the kingdom of heaven-- while

glorifying the Father they serve above. Mothers are also put on earth for

royal purposes, to raise children for the King; shaping and molding them to

become warriors one day for the Lord. Who will not just feed the poor in

secret but also help direct and change the course of a nation.

-Mrs. June Fuentes

{True Christian Motherhood}

Hope all of you had a blessed Thursday!!

"Her children rise up and bless her...." -Proverbs 31:28

Inspiring Motherhood Pics...

2011-09-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

Motherhood is the theme around here this week...
due to the True Christian Motherhood
giveaway we are having on Blessed Femina.
I thought I'd share some precious mommy pics...
that I've collected on pinterest recently...
Enjoy. ♥

Love this picture so much...
the white dresses, momma's smile... beautiful.

simply adorable "the momma artist"

Stunning

Joy! ♥

Sleeping baby and beautiful mommy.

Tender kisses

Looking up to mommy

Awww... ♥

And to end with... one of my favorite pics...
so adorable in every way. ♥

"Her children rise up and bless her..." -Proverbs 31:28

Lord's Day...

2011-09-25T21:12:00.001-07:00

Sweet Sunday blessings, dear readers!

True Christian Motherhood Giveaway!

2011-09-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

Looking for a renewed vision on Christian Motherhood?
Look no further!
Whether you are young, old, married or single...
all ladies will gain rich pearls of wisdom
from the delightful new ebook
"True Christian Motherhood" by June Fuentes.

This book is filled with rich insights and thought
provoking questions in each section.
The more I read this wonderful book
the more I said, "Yes!! Yes!!! Yes!!!!"
This is the kind of reading material that
is essential for Christian women today.
We need women who are preparing for
motherhood as well as embracing it!
As you read the pages of this book
your heart will be inspired to serve your family
with joy and embrace your sacred calling!

I'm very excited to announce that dear Mrs. Fuentes
is offering a copy of "True Christian Motherhood" on Blessed Femina!

To enter this giveaway
simply leave a comment!

For extra entries-
share via. facebook, twitter, blog,
email or like TCM facebook page.

Giveaway ends September 30th.

-Many Blessings-

"A wise woman builds her home...."
-Proverbs 14:1

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-09-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

“You are never too old to set another
goal or to dream a new dream.”
- C.S. Lewis

Hope all of you had a richly blessed Thursday!

photo from- flickr

Beautiful Fashion Accessories...

2011-09-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

Isn't etsy such a fun place to browse and shop?!

I find beautiful items on there almost weekly.

Here are some of the lovely accessories I've found of late.

I just had to share with all of you. ♥

Flower Hair Comb with Vintage Pink Roses
{which goose}

Darling Pink Lace Shoe Clips
{which goose}

Small Flower Hair Clip...
The perfect touch of pink!

{the honey comb}

Beautiful Delicate Pink Flower Clips
{the honey comb}

Dreamy Dusty Pink Chiffon Rose Clutch
{Heidi Creations}

Lace Cuffs... aren't they beautiful?!
{which goose}

Darling Blush Pink Mary Janes...
love the ivory buttons too.
{Mouse Trap Vintage}

Vintage Dress ♥
{salvage life}

Gorgeous Flowery Purse
{which goose}

Pretty Blue Vintage Flower Earrings
{which goose}

'Anne Shirley' Blue Felt Vintage Bow Hat
{which goose}

Gorgeous gloves
{which goose}

Hope you are having a lovely week thus far.
-Many Blessings-

Proverbs 31:25

Porterhouse Steak with Pan Seared Tomatoes....

2011-09-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

We feasted on this delicious steak recently...
Served it with crispy green beans
and creamy mashed potatoes.
I just had to share it with all of you.

Porterhouse Steak with Pan Seared Cherry Tomatoes

Recipe courtesy- epicurious {Gourmet}

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 (1 1/2-inch-thick) porterhouse steaks (about 1 3/4 pounds each)
4 teaspoon kosher salt
6 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced lengthwise
4 (1/2-pint) containers mixed cherry tomatoes
6 large thyme sprigs
1 1/2 cups coarsely torn basil leaves

Preheat oven to 375°F with rack in middle.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Meanwhile, pat steaks dry and sprinkle with kosher salt and 1 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Sear steaks 1 at a time, turning once, until well browned, about 10 minutes total per steak. Transfer steaks to a shallow baking pan (do not clean skillet) and cook in oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted in center of steaks registers 120°F for medium-rare, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a platter and let stand 15 minutes.

While steaks stand, pour off oil from skillet. Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then sauté garlic until golden, about 2 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a plate. Add tomatoes and thyme to hot oil (be careful; oil will spatter), then lightly season with salt and pepper and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, just until tomatoes begin to wilt, about 2 minutes. Stir in any meat juices from platter, then scatter basil over tomatoes and spoon over steaks.

-Blessings-

"She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar."
-Proverbs 31:14

I'm Back...

2011-09-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens."
-Ecclesiastes 3:1

I'm back dear readers... from a much needed blogging break. I think it's been the longest break I've taken since I started blogging almost 3 years ago. Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this week! I've missed posting on Blessed Femina. Hope all of you are doing well.

Many Blessings,
Miss Jen

Never Forget..

2011-09-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

September 11th

In remembrance of that sober day, 10 years ago,

when so many died.

~Isaiah 51:3~

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-08-18T22:15:00.000-07:00

"Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out

your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah."

-Psalm 62:8

Hope you had a wonderful Thursday!

painting by- Leon G. Max

Cooking Tip of The Day:

2011-08-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

"This is my invariable advice to people:
Learn how to cook- try new recipes, learn from your
mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!"
-Julia Child

Oh.... and always say
"Bon Appétit!!"
before you serve a meal. ::smiles::

In honor of Julia Child's birthday! ♥

-Proverbs 31:14-

Lord's Day....

2011-08-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

"The moment you don't feel like praying, get on your knees.
And the moment you don't feel like reading your
Bible, you'd better get that Book open."
- Lori Wick

Hope all of you had a lovely Thursday!
-Blessings-

photo courtesy- flickr

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-08-11T23:12:00.000-07:00

I have one desire now - to live a life of reckless
abandon for the Lord, putting all
my energy and strength into it.
-Elisabeth Elliot

Hope all of you had a pleasant Thursday.
-Blessings-

"So, whether you eat or drink, or
whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
-I Corinthians 10:31

A Lovely Afternoon For Embroidery...

2011-08-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

It was just one of those days.....
a cloudy, chilly, overcast day... the perfect kind of
day to watch some Jane Austen.
It, also, seemed extremely fitting to bring
out the embroidery hoop, white muslin,
embroidery thread...

...and do some stitching. ♥

This little sampler will most likely be incorporated into a
quilt or used as a base for a pincushion.

Hope all of you are having a lovely week.
-Blessings-

"She seeketh wool, and flax, and
worketh willingly with her hands."
-Proverbs 31:13

Beautiful Finds...

2011-08-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

There is something so special about old things from times past.
We found these treasures at some local garage sales last weekend...

An old Victorian painting of a Ballerina Dance Class
{purchased for 50 cents}

A Vintage Teacup from England {purchased for $1}

And... last but not least...

An Old Hymnal from the 1920's to add to
my small but growing "Vintage Hymnal Collection"
{purchased for 50 cents}
___________________________________

Hope all of you are having a lovely week, thus far.
Blessings.

"To everything there is a season, and a time..."
-Ecc 3:1

Lord's Day...

2011-08-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

"Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be

the glory, because of your love and faithfulness."

-Psalm 115:1

Sunday blessings, dear ones.

Thoughtful Thursday....

2011-08-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

"To wait on God is to live a life of desire toward Him,
delight in Him, dependence on Him, and devotedness to Him."
-Matthew Henry

Hope you had a blessed Thursday.

"Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take
courage; wait for the LORD!" -Psalm 27:14

painting by- Pompeo M.

A Trip Up the Coast...

2011-08-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

Sipping tea, savoring this scrumptious summer weather &
fellowshipping with dear friends were but a few of the things
that I have been doing of late. {thus the absence of posts}

My sweet friends, the Smiths, invited
me to come stay in their home for a few days...
and my heart was blessed by the sweet unity
and precious encouragement.

Babies abounded...
with tender smiles ♥

and...

lots and lots of amazing food...
of which little girls highly approved. ;)

{Some of the delicious menus included fried chicken with gravy and
mashed potatoes, cheesy enchiladas, homemade peach pie,
chocolate mocha cake and chocolate mousse.... mmmm!}

Ladies of Virtue
Mother & Daughter {dear Mrs. Smith & Miss Amber}

Women who exude kindness, love,
warmth and genuine hospitality.

♥ The Lovely Smith Ladies ♥
{Grace, Mrs.Smith, Keslie, Heather & Amber}

It was also a joy to be able to meet Kami {Keslie's dear sister}
who I've been friends with online for sometime... what a dear! ♥

Sisters-in- Christ
Posing with my dear friend Amber
{...just a few hours before heading home}

Love these girls! ♥
Grace, Heather, Amber and I pose for one last pic.
Thus, ended a wonderful time... never to be forgotten.
Precious memories forever implanted on our hearts.

"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you..." Philippians 1:3

Lord's Day...

2011-07-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

"Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name:

bring an offering, and come before him:
worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness."
-I Chronicles 16:29

Hope you had a blessed Sunday.

painting by- John Constable

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-07-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies.

-Augustine

Hope all of you had a blessed Thursday.

"A friend loveth at all times..." -Proverbs 17:17

painting by Pompeo M.

Lord's Day...

2011-07-24T14:30:00.000-07:00

Your life is short, your duties many, your assistance great, and your reward sure; therefore faint not, hold on and hold up, in ways of well-doing, and heaven shall make amends for all

—Thomas Brooks

Sunday Blessings!

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the
high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
-Philippians 3:14

painting by- E. Walbourn

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-07-21T04:34:00.000-07:00

"It is not how much we have, but how
much we enjoy, that makes happiness."

-C.H. Spurgeon

Hope all of you had a lovely Thursday!

"Give thanks in all circumstances."
-I Thessalonians 5:18

painting by- H. Allingham

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Feta, Tomato, and Watermelon...

2011-07-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

This lovely salad has an interesting
combination of ingredients on first look...
but the finished product is quite delightful.
When I spotted this recipe from Fine Cooking a little while ago
I knew I just had to try it.

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Feta, Tomato, and Watermelon
recipe courtesy- Fine Cooking

1-1/2 lb. raw extra-jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 per lb.),
peeled (leave tail segment intact) and deveined
1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. smoked sweet paprika
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1-1/2 tsp. honey
Vegetable oil, for the grill
1/2 medium head frisée, torn into bite-size pieces (4 cups)
3 cups small-diced seedless watermelon (about 1 lb.)
3 medium ripe red or yellow tomatoes, cored and cut into wedges
2 cups yellow cherry or pear tomatoes, halved
6 oz. feta, cut into small dice (1-1/4 cups)
30 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (1/2 cup)

Prepare a hot gas or charcoal grill fire.
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 2 Tbs. of the lemon juice and the paprika; marinate at room temperature for 5 minutes. Thread the shrimp onto metal skewers or wooden skewers that have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Season the shrimp on both sides with 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup lemon juice with the olive oil, honey, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Whisk well. Clean and oil the grill grates. Grill the shrimp, flipping once, until firm and opaque throughout, 4 to 6 minutes total.

In a large bowl, gently toss the frisée with 3 Tbs. of the dressing. In a medium bowl, gently toss the watermelon, tomatoes, feta, basil, 2 Tbs. dressing, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. pepper. Divide the frisée among 4 plates and spoon one-quarter of the watermelon mixture over each. Top with the shrimp skewers, drizzle with the remaining dressing, and serve.

Note: You can also, broil the shrimp. {like I did} Simply preheat your broiler and broil shrimp about 3 min. per side. {although... keep in mind... grilling the shrimp gives this dish better flavor... particularly grilling with coals}

Serve with Love!

Hope you are having a blessed week, thus far.
-Blessings-

"She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar."
-Proverbs 31:14

Lord's Day...

2011-07-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

Singing God's praise is a work of the most meditation of any we perform in public. It keeps the heart longest upon the thing spoken. Prayer and hearing pass quick from one sentence to another; this sticks long upon it.

—John Lightfoot

Hope you had a blessed Sunday.

"....Sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation."

-Psalm 95:1

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-07-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

"Love is an exotic; it is not a plant which will
flourish naturally in human soil,
it must be watered from above.
Love to Jesus is a flower of a delicate nature,
and if it received no nourishment but that which could
be drawn from the rock of our hearts it would soon wither."
-C.H. Spurgeon

Thursday blessings to you!

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord
and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both
now and to the day of eternity. Amen."
-II Peter 3:18

photographic print-
White Apple Blossom Flowers {via. art.com}

Lord's Day...

2011-07-10T23:09:00.000-07:00

"My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock
of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart
before him: God is a refuge for us."
-Psalm 62:5-8

~Sunday Blessings~

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-07-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

The way to open our hearts to others is by receiving afresh the grace of God and appreciating what it means: seeing our own need of Christ; coming to receive His mercy; sensing how undeserved His love for us is; remembering how He has also opened His heart to those whose hearts are closed against us. Then we will see that the heart which is too narrow to receive a fellow Christian is too narrow to enthrone the Lord Jesus Christ. But the heart that is opened to receive the grace of Christ will learn to welcome all those whom Christ Himself has welcomed.

Sinclair B. Ferguson

~Hope you all had a lovely Thursday~

"Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness."

-Lamentations 3:22-23

4th of July Ribs...

2011-07-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

Ribs are becoming a tradition on the 4th of July at our house.

This year I served them with creamy garlic

potatoes and caramelized shallots.
A delicious combo, indeed!

Hope you are having a lovely week!
-Blessings-

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a wonderful 4th.
-Blessings to you and yours-

4th of July Craft Tutorial!

2011-07-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

There is something about the 4th of July that always
makes me want to craft something fun & patriotic.
Here is a simple project to make that is simple adorable.

Here's a little tutorial for y'all:
Start by... cutting a pretty piece of decorative paper.

1 1/2" x 12"

Score the piece of paper every 1/4"

Next... fold the score lines into an accordion delight.
{This is such a fun part...at least it was for me!}

using a piece of sticky strip...
press and seal ends together.

Now...
to finish your project...
simply use your hands to flatten your paper flower.
{note: it will pop up again... no worries}

Punch or cut out two small
circles and stamp the top circle with a festive stamp.
Decorate with gems {if you like gems like I do}

On the back of the circle apply crystal effects

{or use a similar strong holding glue}

Hold down for a couple minutes... and or
place a light/medium weight on top {like a book etc..}
Apply more crystal effects if needed...
And let dry completely {about 45 min- 1 hour}

Viola! You have just made one pretty little darling!
You can use these lovelies for a banner, decorate place cards,
napkin holders... and the list goes on.

How easy was that?!

pair them with some scrumptious ribbon

Banners

Napkin Holders

...The possibilities are endless.

Happy 4th of July!

"Rejoice evermore..." -I Thess 5:16

Lord's Day...

2011-07-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised,

and his greatness is unserchable.

-Psalm 145:3

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-06-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

Ah, what a life is theirs who live in Christ;

How vast the mystery!
Reaching in height to heaven, and in its depth
The unfathomed sea!
-Elizabeth Prentiss

Hope all of you had a lovely Thursday!
-Blessings-

"Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all
creation, will be able to separate us from the
love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
-Romans 8:39

painting by-G.Rose

Heartfelt Simplicity...

2011-06-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

"As women we have the ability to make the most of the many wonderful ‘simple things’ that the Lord has provided. This can be done by nourishing & creating a place of rest, beauty and joy in our homes. When a treasured family member or friend enters our home…. are we communicating to them an environment of hospitality & kindness? Not only our home, meals, and accessories communicate an attitude of hospitality, but most importantly our hearts..."

Lord's Day...

2011-06-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Be thou, O God exalted high;
And as Thy glory fills the sky,
So let it be on earth displayed,
Till Thou art here, as there, obeyed.

O God, my heart is fixed; ’tis bent
Its thankful tribute to present;
And, with my heart, my voice I’ll raise
To Thee, my God, in songs of praise.

Thy praises, Lord, I will resound
To all the listening nations round;
Thy mercy highest heav’n transcends;
Thy truth beyond the clouds extends.

Sunday blessings to you!

"Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth." -Psalm 57:5

painting by- Ernest Parton

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-06-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

The truths that I know best
I have learned on my knees.
I never know a thing well, till it is
burned into my heart by prayer.
-John Bunyan

Thursday Blessings.

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation,
be constant in prayer."
-Romans 12:12

Pearls...

2011-06-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

Pearls on a silk green scarf...

This pearl bracelet was given to me by my dear momma! ♥

{she knows how much I ♥ pearls} ::sigh::

There is something so lovely about pearls.....

they dress up the simplest of outfits, adding a touch
of elegance and grace to any wardrobe.

Hope you are all having a lovely week, thus far!
-Blessings-

"Strength and dignity are her clothing..."
-Proverbs 31:25

Father's Day Sunday...

2011-06-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

"Children's children are the crown of old men;
and the glory of children are their fathers."
-Proverbs 17:6

Sunday blessings...
& Happy Father's Day to all
of the daddies out there.

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-06-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

As you read, pause frequently to meditate on the meaning of what you are reading. Absorb the Word into your system by dwelling on it, pondering it, going over it again and again in your mind, considering it from many different angles, until it becomes part of you.

-Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Thursday blessings!

"....be transformed by the renewal of your mind,
that by testing you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and acceptable and perfect."
-Romans 12:2

Floating Islands...

2011-06-14T22:05:00.000-07:00

Floating Islands with Crème Anglaise,

sprinkled with Praline and drizzled with Caramel Sauce.
... this is what I made on the eve of my birthday... ;)

You can find the recipe here.
I adapted it slightly by adding {my favorite addition}
vanilla bean paste.
Mmmm.... it is scrumptious and most likely
will transport you to a town France.

Hope all of you are having a lovely week.
-Blessings-

"She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar."
-Proverbs 31:14

Lord's Day...

2011-06-12T17:08:00.000-07:00

In full and glad surrender,
I give myself to Thee,
Thine utterly and only
And evermore to be.

O Son of God, who lov'st me,
I will be Thine alone;
And all I have and am, Lord,
Shall henceforth be Thine own!

Reign over me, Lord Jesus;
Oh, make my heart Thy throne;
It shall be Thine, dear Savior,
It shall be Thine alone.

Oh, come and reign, Lord Jesus,
Rule over everything!
And keep me always loyal,
And true to Thee, my King.

-Hymn by-
Frances Ridley Havergal

Sunday Blessings!

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-06-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

"The place of our habitation is fixed,

and we are not to remove from it out of whim
and caprice, but seek to serve the Lord in it,
by being a blessing to those among whom we reside.
"It is when we are in His work that
we may reckon upon His smile."
~Charles Spurgeon

Hope all of you had a lovely Thursday!
-Blessings-

"But godliness with contentment is great gain."
-I Timothy 6:6

painting by- Frederick Morgan

In Remembrance...

2011-06-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

D-Day

The first day of the Invasion of Normandy

June 6th, 1944

This military operation was the largest

single-day amphibious invasion

of all time, with 160,000 troops landing

on June 6, 1944.

There was 195,700 allied naval and navy merchant personnel

in over 5,000 ships that were involved in this invasion.

It was a day when men risked their lives for

the freedom we have and enjoy today.

My Grandfather was a part of history that day....

as he drove a landing craft.... delivering hundreds of

men to shore.... he would never forget that day......

and it had a tremendous impact on him for the rest of his life.

Emotions and moments that cannot be described.

Courageous heroism surely describes these

men as they plunged into those waters and walked those grounds

in defense of this beautiful Country~ America.

May we never, ever, forget what they sacrificed for

us on this day..... June the 6th!!

"Where there is no vision, the people perish."

-Proverbs 29:18

Lord's Day....

2011-06-05T16:30:00.000-07:00

Christians are like the several flowers in a garden that have

each of them the dew of heaven, which, being shaken with

the wind, they let fall at each other's roots, whereby they

are jointly nourished, and become nourishers of each other.

-John Bunyan

Sunday blessings!

"Rejoice with them that do rejoice,

and weep with them that weep."

-Romans 12:15

painting by- Monet

Sweet Tea Card...

2011-06-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

Here is an ideal gift for a loved one who is sick
or a friend who needs cheering up.

I so enjoyed making this card at a recent party I attended.

A delightful pocket is inside... perfect for your unique
tea bag to be nestled into.

"I give thanks to my God always for you..."
-I Corinthians 1:4

Products Used:
3/16 Inch Whole Punch
Sponge for distressing the edges
Marina Mist Paper {stampin' up}
Whisper White Paper {SU}
Marina Mist Ink {SU}
1/8 Inch Taffeta Ribbon {Marina Mist}
Stamp Set "Elements of Style" {SU}
Sticky Strip

Blessings, to you dear readers...
Have a lovely weekend!

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-06-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

God of my end, it is my greatest, noblest pleasure

to be acquainted with Thee and with my rational,

immortal soul; it is sweet and entertaining to look

into my being when all my powers and passions

are united and engaged in pursuit of Thee, when my

soul longs and passionately breathes after conformity to

Thee and the full enjoyment of Thee; no hours pass away

with so much pleasure as those spent in

communion with Thee and with my heart.

-Valley of Vision

Thursday blessings, dear readers.

"As a deer pants for flowing streams,

so pants my soul for you, O God."

-Psalm 42:1

painting by-A. Rigolot

Memorial Day....

2011-05-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

Although no sculptured marble should rise to their
memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds,
yet will their remembrance be as lasting
as the land they honored.
~Daniel Webster

Blessings to you on this Memorial Day.

-Proverbs 29:18-

Lord's Day...

2011-05-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

"....O Lord,

for your steadfast love is good;

according to your abundant

mercy, turn to me."

-Psalm 69:16

Sunday blessings, dear readers.

painting by- A. Allselbergs

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-05-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

True happiness is to rejoice in the truth, for to rejoice in the truth is to rejoice in You, O God, who are the truth… Those who think that there is another kind of happiness look for joy elsewhere, but theirs is not true joy.

-Augustine

Hope all of you had a lovely Thursday!
-Blessings-

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is
fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
-Psalm 16:11

painting by- Renoir

Birthday Flowers....

2011-05-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

Aren't they beautiful?!

-Psalm 118:24-

...And The Winner Is

2011-05-23T15:50:00.000-07:00

::drum roll please::

Congratulations to

Miss Rachel...
for winning a Lilla Rose hair clip!

Many thanks to all who entered.

Lord's Day...

2011-05-22T16:15:00.000-07:00

"Thou visiteth the earth, and waterest it:

thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God,

which is full of water: thou preaperest them corn,

when thou hast so provided for it.

Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest

the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers:

thou blessest the springing thereof.

Thou crownest the year with thy goodness;

and thy paths drop fatness.

They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness:

and little hills rejoice on every side.

The pastures are clothed with flocks;

the valleys also are covered over with corn;

they shout for joy, the also sing.

-Psalm 65:9-13

Sunday blessings, dear readers.

painting by-William Shayer

Knitting JOY...♥

2011-05-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

How I delight in using sticks and yarn!
This scarf project was so fun....
I used a variegated ribbon yarn.

This ribbon yarn is such a joy to work with....
I love to use my bamboo needles too.

A Beautiful Ball of Yarn

When knitted, this yarn yields a lovely design and texture.

Hope you are all having a lovely day!
-Blessings-

"She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh
willingly with her hands."
-Proverbs 31:13

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-05-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

"We have ample evidence that the Lord is able to guide.
The promises cover every imaginable situation.
All we need to do is to take the hand he stretches out."
~Elisabeth Elliot

Thursday blessings, dear readers.

"And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy
your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden, like a
spring of water, whose waters do not fail."
-Isaiah 58:11

painting by- John Leslie Breck

Lilla Rose {& a Giveaway!}...

2011-05-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted a hair clip that was both beautiful and practical?
Lilla Rose hair clips are just that.....practical and beautiful!

When my friend sent me one of these beauties
in the mail.... I was struck by the quality, detail and
craftsmanship of the clip. It is not only gorgeous,
but it is also delightful to wear. While other clips
may leave you with a headache... these delightful
clips hold the hair without pain and they
don't tend to snag the way other less expensive
hair clips do!

Here is my clip {Flower Stoneset with Danglie}
just moments after opening my package...
isn't it lovely?!

Here are some more beauties....

If you are a girl who is extra partial to pink...
the "Lovely Circle Pink" flexi might be just the clip for you!

This lovely signature 2011 "May Bouquet" flexi
is a perfect mix of purples and pinks.

Lilla Rose offers a vast assortment of
different styles to suit your "unique fashion taste!"

I am very excited to announce that my friend,
Kim, would like to offer one of my readers
a chance to win a flexi-clip of their choice (value up to $15!).
This offer is good to residents of the USA, Mexico & Canada only.

Choose your favorite design.

To Enter:
Simply comment {on this post}
stating which clip you liked best.

Lilla Rose has a quality product & a 1 year guarantee!

For Extra Entries:

Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or blog about it. (2 entries each, leave 2 comments)
Like the Lilla Rose Facebook Page(2 entries, leave 2 comments)
Like my friend, Kim Buesing's Lilla Rose Facebook Page (3 entries, leave 3 comments)
Buy something from Lilla Rose. (5 entries, leave 5 comments)

The winner will be announced on Monday, May 23rd.

Lord's Day...

2011-05-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

"O praise the LORD, all ye nations:
praise him, all ye people.

For his merciful kindness is great toward us:
and the truth of the LORD endureth forever.

Praise ye the LORD."

-Psalm 117

Sunday blessings to all of you!

painting by-Clayton Adams

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-05-12T22:26:00.000-07:00

If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear.

His eye is upon us, His arm over us,
His ear open to our prayer - His grace sufficient,
His promise unchangeable.
-John Newton

-Blessings-

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee:
for my strength is made perfect in weakness...."
-II Corinthians 12:9

painting by- Alfred Augustus Glendenning

Delightful New Teacups...

2011-05-10T22:45:00.000-07:00

I always get excited when I find some new teacups to add
to my collection. I just had to share these lovelies with you!!

Simple and elegant....this fine china teacup
has some exquisite detail inside.

Found this lovely tea book at a local shop...
so enjoying it. ♥

I love flipping through pages of tea inspiration... ;)

This teacup is so dainty and refined...
on the bottom of it is stamped
"By Appointment To Her Majesty The Queen"

...the detail is beautiful inside this one too.

Last but not least... this teacup showcases
splendid flowers... rendering it such beauty and grace.

Hope you are having a richly blessed week, thus far!

"Rejoice always..." -I Thessalonians 5:16

Mother's Day Sunday...

2011-05-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

"Praying mothers, teaching mothers,

faithful mothers---the Church needs you.
She needs mothers who will
crave children, and love them and bless
them to be the warriors of the next generation.

Motherhood! Blessed motherhood!
The time has come to once again
sing the praises of this calling.
Though bloodied by the barbs of feminism,
Christian motherhood will not be vanquished."
-Mrs. Beall Phillips, Verses of Virtue ♥

Wishing all of you a Beautiful Sunday & Delightful Mother's day.

~Many Blessings~

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praiseth her."
-Proverbs 31:28

This post is linked at~ A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

Painting~ "Playtime" by Frederick Morgan

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-05-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

O God, make us desperate, and grant us faith and
boldness to approach Your throne and make our
petitions known, knowing that in doing we link arms
with Omnipotence and become instruments of Your
eternal purposes being fulfilled on this earth.
-Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Blessings to all of you on this National Day of Prayer!

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in
tribulation, be constant in prayer."
-Romans 12:12

Mini Chicken Pot Pies with Bacon and Marjoram...

2011-05-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

There is something so delightful
about a mini chicken pot pie...
and this is no exception.

This chicken pot pie contains...
sweet sauteed onions, marjoram,
smoked apple wood bacon, chicken,
carrots, haricot verts,
crème fraiche... & is topped with a
mouthwatering flaky crust.

Mini Chicken Pot Pies
with Bacon and Marjoram
Bon Appetit

5 applewood-smoked bacon slices
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
12 ounces peeled whole baby carrots (about 2 1/2 cups)
1 8-ounce package trimmed haricots verts or
other slender green beans, halved crosswise
4 teaspoons chopped fresh marjoram
1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth
2/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon crème fraîche
3 cups coarsely shredded chicken from 1 small
purchased roasted chicken (skin removed)

1 sheet frozen puff pastry
(homemade or store-bought), thawed

Preheat oven to 450F. Cook bacon in heavy large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Chop bacon. Add onion to drippings in skillet; sauté until tender and golden, about 8 minutes. Add next 3 ingredients; stir 1 minute. Add broth; bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to mediumhigh and boil until vegetables are almost tender and some liquid is reduced, about 8 minutes. Stir in 2/3 cup crème fraîche, chicken, and bacon. Bring to simmer. Season with pepper. Divide among four 2-cup soufflé dishes.

Unfold puff pastry onto work surface; roll out to 12-inch square. Cut into 4 equal squares. Top filling in soufflé dishes with pastry; fold edges down onto rims of dish. Brush top of crusts (not edges) with remaining 1 tablespoon crème fraîche. Cut small X in center of crusts; pierce all over with fork. Bake until crusts are golden brown and filling is heated through, about 22 minutes.

Always serve with Love....
Enjoy!

-Proverbs 31:14-

Lord's Day...

2011-05-01T21:49:00.000-07:00

"...The LORD will guide you continually and

satisfy your desire in scorched places and make

your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail."
~Isaiah 58:11

Sunday Blessings!

A Call For Prayer & Help...

2011-04-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

As many of you have already heard on the news...

some violent tornadoes have swept through Alabama,
leaving many without a home or possessions.

The Crawfords and the Lees are two families whose
homes were demolished and left barren.

The heroic father of the Lee family died during

the tornado, while saving his own childrens lives.
Mrs. Lee is now a widow with 13 children to care for.

The Lee Family

The Crawford Family
{I have been Mrs.Crawford's facebook friend for some time
and have been richly blessed by her blog over the years}

Please join me in earnest prayer for these precious families
and consider donating funds in order to help them with food,

supplies and building materials.

For further information on how to help...
Please Visit:
Tornado Relief Efforts
A Wise Woman Builds Her Home
"I Will Praise You in the Storm"

Doug's Blog
Generation Cedar

"And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it;
or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it."
~ 1 Corinthians 12:26

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-04-28T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hope is called the anchor of the soul (Hebrews 6:19), because it gives stability to the Christian life. But hope is not simply a “wish” (I wish that such-and-such would take place); rather, it is that which latches on to the certainty of the promises of the future that God has made.
-R.C. Sproul

Thursday blessings, dear readers.

-Isaiah 40:31-

...And The Winners Are

2011-04-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

::Drum roll, please::

Congratulations to....
Camille, Amy & Rachel!!!

Pan-Seared Salmon with Baby Greens, Fennel and A Citrus Vinaigrette...

2011-04-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

This pan seared salmon is a light easy entree
and is accompanied by tender greens,
thinly sliced fennel, dried marinated
cherries and a citrus vinaigrette.

It is ideal for a regular weeknight meal
or special dinner guests.
I made this tonight...
all agreed it was a lovely spring feast.

Pan-Seared Salmon with Baby Greens, Fennel
and A Citrus Vinaigrette
recipe courtesy- fine cooking

A slightly sweet, citrusy dressing contrasts with
the rich salmon and tender greens in
this main-dish salad.

Serves four.

For the dressing:
2-1/2 Tbs. Champagne or white wine vinegar
2 Tbs. fresh orange juice
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the salmon:
4 6-oz. skinless salmon fillets, preferably center cut
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1-1/2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

For the salad:
8 oz. mixed baby salad greens (about 8 lightly packed cups)
1 small fennel bulb, trimmed, halved lengthwise, cored, and very thinly sliced crosswise
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a small bowl, combine the vinegar with the orange juice and zest, 1/4 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Stir in the dried cherries and set aside. Season the salmon fillets on both sides with 1 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon, flipping once, until barely cooked through and a rich golden brown crust develops on both sides, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Set aside on a plate.

Using a fork or slotted spoon, remove the cherries from the orange juice mixture and set aside. Slowly whisk the 1/2 cup olive oil into the orange juice mixture until blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Combine the greens and fennel in a large bowl. Add about half of the vinaigrette to the salad, toss, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide the salad among 4 large plates or shallow bowls. Set a piece of salmon on each salad and sprinkle the cherries around the fish. Drizzle some of the remaining vinaigrette over each fillet and serve.

Enjoy....

-Proverbs 31:14-

Resurrection Sunday...

2011-04-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

HE is risen!

"He is not here: he has risen just as he said."
-Matthew 28:6
____________________

"Christ the Lord is ris'n today,"
Alleluia!
sons of men and angels say;
Alleluia!
raise your joys and triumphs high;
Alleluia!
sing ye heav'ns and earth, reply,
Alleluia!

Easter blessings, to you and yours!

Easter Delights...

2011-04-23T19:35:00.000-07:00

Soft pink tulips abound...

and vibrant colored Easter eggs abound too.... ;)

Hope all of you are having a wonderfully blessed
Easter weekend.

Rejoice in the Lord...
Christ died for our sins and rose again....
Alleluia, what a Savior!!

Good Friday...

2011-04-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

Alas! and did my Savior bleed,
and did my Sovereign die!
Would he devote that sacred head
for sinners such as I?

Was it for crimes that I have done,
he groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! Grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!
-Isaac Watts

______________________

"But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was
the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed."
-Isaiah 53:5

painting- "Cross At Sunset" by Thomas Cole

Thoughtful Thursday....

2011-04-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

"Keeping the house in order is a beautiful way for women to serve their families. It demonstrates love and respect for our husbands and children in that we think that they are important enough to provide them with a clean, welcoming and beautiful environment. It also enables us to be available to serve others by opening our homes at a moment's notice or being able to temporarily drop the home routines without things falling into chaos in order to go help those who need us."

-Kimberly {Raising Olives}

excerpt taken from "31 Days to Clean"

Thursday blessings, dear readers!

“She looks well to the ways of her household and
does not eat the bread of idleness.” -Proverbs 31:27

{Also, be sure to enter in the fabulous giveaway}

A Special Day....

2011-04-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, to my dearest mother.
I love you beyond words can express.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Many daughters have done virtuously,
but thou excellest them all."
-Proverbs 31:28-29
______________________________

Join me in wishing my dear mom
the happiest of Birthdays!

31 Days To Clean {& A Giveaway!!}

2011-04-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

My friend, Sarah Mae, has come out with a delightful book
on cleaning... focusing on both heart issues and practical issues.
Bursting with inspiration for the homemaker and filled with rich wisdom, this book should be in every woman's home.

"Sarah Mae's new book "31 days to Clean" reminds us that both "Mary" and "Martha" are useful examples for us in our daily duties as homemakers. Sarah skillfully helps us develop a spiritual mind-set in regards to taking charge of our domain, which ultimately brings glory to God and gives us an eternal perspective. This was a wonderful read that will not only transform your house into a home, but more importantly transform your thinking!"
-Mrs. L {my dear mother}

Sarah Mae {The lovely authoress}

Pictured with her beautiful family

Sarah Mae writes:

"I am not a natural when it comes to cleaning. In fact, sometimes I think my DNA is allergic to it! However, I know that if I am to care for my home, and more importantly my family, I need to persevere in creating a clean, peaceful home environment (not a perfect one!).

31 Days to Clean is about the “why” and the vision and the heart for taking care of our domains. Each day I encourage you with some thoughts and ideas, and then we put those ideas to action.

After each days reading, you will be given two challenges:

The Mary Challenge -Something you do that encourages/engages your heart
The Martha Challenge – Specific cleaning tasks

Friends, 31 Days to Clean is a faith journey towards ruling, subduing, and loving. We are forgoing perfection; we are choosing life."

___________________________

I'm very happy to announce that
we will be giving away 3 copies of
"31 Days To Clean!"

To enter into this fabulous giveaway,
simply comment on this post.
For extra entries tell your friends through
facebook, twitter, email, a blog post and etc...
{Please leave an extra comment for each thing you do!}

Looking forward to announcing
the winners on April 27th!

Blessings & Happy Cleaning!

“She looks well to the ways of her household and
does not eat the bread of idleness.” -Proverbs 31:27

Lord's Day...

2011-04-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

"For this I know, whate'er of earthly good

Fall to the portion of immortal man,

Still unfulfill'd in him is God's great plan,

And Heaven's richest gift misunderstood,

Until the Word of Life-exhaustless store...

Of light and truth-be his for evermore."

-Mary Jones and Her Bible

Sunday blessings, dear readers.

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

-Psalm 119:105

painting-"The Bible Lesson" By Gerrit

Artichoke On A Plate...

2011-04-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year when the farmer markets and grocery stores
are bursting at the seams with fresh spring produce... like artichokes,
asparagus and sweet peas.
I, also, just happen to live 30 minutes away from the
Artichoke Capital of the World...
so cooking artichokes in the spring is a must.

Artichokes are splendid warm or cold!

The ones I made, recently, have an added touch of goat cheese and
warm lemon vinaigrette, a delightful combination, indeed.

Whichever way you decide to eat them... do enjoy them & give thanks!
______________

Artichokes stuffed with Goat Cheese and
Thyme drizzled with a warm Lemon Vinaigrette
Bon Appétit

8 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

6 medium artichokes, tops and stems trimmed
8 ounces soft fresh goat cheese (such as Montrachet)
3 tablespoons whipping cream
3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
3-5 large garlic cloves, pressed

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons olive oil

Bring large pot of water to boil. Add 2 tablespoons lemon juice to water. Add artichokes and cook until tender, about 25 minutes. {or steam them till tender like I did} Drain well. Cool completely. Using small spoon and keeping artichokes intact, carefully remove tiny center leaves and chokes.

Mix goat cheese, cream, 2 teaspoons thyme and garlic in small bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon mixture into center of artichokes, dividing equally. Place each artichoke in center of square piece of foil large enough to cover artichoke completely. Gather foil up around artichoke, twisting top of foil to secure. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Refrigerate.)

Preheat oven to 400°F. Place artichokes on baking sheet and bake until heated through, about 15 minutes. Melt butter in heavy small skillet. Add olive oil and remaining 6 tablespoons lemon juice and bring to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 1 teaspoon thyme. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Unwrap artichokes. Place each in center of plate. Drizzle butter mixture around each and serve. Garnish with thyme.

...Enjoy!

Hope you are having a blessed week.

"She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar."

-Proverbs 31:14

Thoughtful Thursday...

2011-04-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

"Master those books you have. Read them thoroughly. Bathe in them until they saturate you. Read and re-read them…digest them…a student will find that his mental constitution is more affected by one book thoroughly mastered than by 20 books he has merely skimmed."

-Charles Spurgeon

Thursday blessings, dear readers.

"...Acquire wisdom; And with all your
acquiring, get understanding."
-Proverbs 4:7

painting by- Jessie W. Smith