tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11749767897379379692024-03-21T06:18:14.971-05:00Homemaker's HavenShellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-89736561916069650182011-09-12T08:45:00.001-05:002011-09-12T08:47:30.103-05:00Remembering 9/11I'll always remember that Tuesday morning. Tweenager was just a baby back then ~ and I was still in my first trimester with Bubby. In the midst of folding laundry and hearing "Sesame Street" in the background, the hubs called and told me that an airplane had flown into the North Tower. I immediately flipped to the early morning news show, and sat horrified as I witnessed the second plane slam into the South Tower. Even though they were trying to be professional, the news anchors were visibly shaken as they announced that America was under attack. <br />
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I'll always remember the look on President Bush's face as he was informed of the breaking news. In recent interviews, he admitted the feeling of rage and sorrow he felt at that moment, and at the same time, trying to keep it neutral so that he wouldn't upset the children surrounding him.<br />
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I'll always remember the sight of the buildings crashing down upon themselves, and horrified people running for their lives. I'll always remember the looks of terror, devastation, and sorrow. I'll always remember Mayor Giuliani walking around his city, asking people if they were okay.<br />
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I'll always remember seeing the Pentagon ~ the symbol of our military might ~ with a smoldering, gaping hole in its side ~ people again, fleeing in terror, running for their lives.<br />
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I'll always remember seeing the fiery, charred remains of an airplane in Pennsylvania.<br />
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I'll always remember feeling shocked and appalled that this would happen to MY country. This was the USA. No one ever messes with us, I reasoned. What will become of us? What will happen? Will there be even more attacks?<br />
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Then, in the midst of the darkness, a song. I'll always remember how Congress stood on the steps of the Capitol and sang "God Bless America". <br />
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I'll always remember President Bush's telling us about the attacks. The resolute, firm determination in his voice ~ in spite of the tears in his eyes ~ made me proud of my President and my country.<br />
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I'll always remember President Bush with the bull horn on Ground Zero saying, "I hear you, the world hears you, and pretty soon the people who did this will be hearing you."<br />
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I'll always remember the service where Franklin Graham spoke, reminding us that God didn't just "let" this injustice happen. It happened because of sin. All mankind were sinners, needing a Savior.<br />
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I'll always remember how fierce and determined the American Spirit was and is. I'll always remember how we, as a nation, finally seemed to realize that we were, in fact, completely dependent on God.<br />
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I'll always remember.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-73544840828655577312011-09-03T21:21:00.000-05:002011-09-03T21:21:52.462-05:00Soothing SaturdayToday has been <em>soothing</em> to me. Yesterday had been quite an emotional day. I was missing my dad and had a lot of mental & emotional stress going on that I didn't even realize I had been carrying until I cried for an hour. Add in monthly hormonal issues, and I was quite the drama queen. In private, I'm glad to say. I kept it together in front of the kiddos.<br />
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Today I slept in until 9:00. The kids got their own breakfast of cereal and milk ~ I had insisted on hot breakfasts this week, so they were looking forward to their Honey Bunches of Oats! Bubby went over to my mom's to pull weeds and help her clean out from under the kitchen sink. That left the girls and I to spend the late morning/early afternoon together. Tweenager & I had Kindergartener otherwise occupied as we enjoyed our first mother/daughter movie-bonding experience. We then invited Kindergartener to come and watch "Bolt" with us. <br />
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Bubby came home. I took a nice, long nap as the kiddos played outside with their friends. Got up and made homemade nachos. Watched a little college football with the hubs. Kindergartener & I baked chocolate chip cookies. Cleaned up the kitchen and am now baking muffins for our Sunday School class in the morning.<br />
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Just the day I needed. Thanks, Father. Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-4732304461156333902011-08-30T15:56:00.004-05:002011-08-30T17:56:23.717-05:00Trying New RecipesOne of my favorite casual dining restaurants is called Mimi's Cafe. When we lived in Topeka, it was only an hour's drive to go to KC to enjoy this Louisiana-style cafe. Since I'm a creature of habit, I always order the same thing whenever I go out.<br />
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Mimi's has the most amazing French onion soup ~ it's to die for! (They have the recipe online, so I make it frequently!) What's best, is that you can get a small cup to go with a half salad. The best salad is their Chopped Cobb. They pile a mountain of baby spring mix into a large bowl, and then top it with bacon crumbles, blue cheese nuggets, avocado slices, roasted turkey breast, and hard-boiled eggs in neat, symmetrical little piles on top.<br />
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I'm sad that KC is further away, even though we live in the Ozarks. I had to come up with my own Chopped Cobb! It was very easy to mimic, but I insist on taking the time to roast up turkey cutlets instead of buying "carving board" style. It tastes just like deli meat. I want the real McCoy!<br />
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I love blue cheese dressing, but since it has the blue cheese nuggets, I decided to steal the hamburger joint Wendy's idea of an Avocado Ranch that comes with their Cobb salad.<br />
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Since the brand was T Marzetti's (LOVE it, btw) I bought the Marzetti's jarred Ranch and pulsed an avocado into it with the blender. Good, but not great.<br />
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Today I decided to make my own Ranch dressing and add avocado to it. The end result was well worth it! I can't remember where I first found this recipe (I've had it on file for a LONG time!) but it's awesome! It tends to be a little thin, but you can thicken it with more mayo or sour cream.<br />
Here it is!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ranch Dressing</span><br />
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1/3 c. sour cream<br />
1/2 c. mayonnaise<br />
1 c. buttermilk<br />
3 T chopped chives<br />
2 T finely minced Italian flat-leaf parsley<br />
1/2 t chopped dill<br />
1 t kosher salt <br />
1 t cracked black pepper<br />
1 T white vinegar<br />
1 T garlic paste <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(You mince 5 garlic cloves, and then use 1/2 t of kosher salt, smashing them with the flat side of your knife blade until it becomes a paste.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise and buttermilk together. Add in herbs, salt, pepper, vinegar, and garlic paste. Add in more mayo or sour cream to thicken. Season to taste. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I divided this recipe and dumped half into the blender. I then added 1/2 of an avocado to the mix and pulsed until it was thickened and creamy. Delicious! I'll slice the other half to put on my salad tonight!<br />
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NOTE: 5 garlic cloves = TOO strong! I was tasting garlic all night ~ yuck! I think 2 or 3 cloves would have worked better.</div>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-44618221320637989782011-06-03T10:50:00.003-05:002011-06-03T11:09:50.659-05:00Ministry of MotherhoodI'm impossibly running behind schedule, as usual. I will begin my post for week 4 starting on Monday, June 6th. I love, love, LOVE this study about the importance of administering grace to my children. Just as Jesus gives me grace on almost a minute by minute basis, I must do the same for my children. This study has been very convicting to me!<br /><br />It's interesting how the Lord works in your life once you're willing and open to His leading. He allows things to shape and mold you. We began a Bible study on Wednesday evenings called "A Journey Worth Planning ~ Raising a Modern Day Joseph".<br /><br />Our wonderful pastor (who has raised 2 children who know, love, and serve the Lord) is leading this study. I'm excited to glean from God's Word and my pastor's teaching how I can ~ by example ~ train my children to be a man and women after God's heart.<br /><br />You know, nothing negative is ever mentioned about Joseph in the Bible. Yes, he was young and foolish to tell his already jealous brothers about his dreams, but he was ultimately the epitome of a faithful servant, a man of forgiveness, compassion, and godliness. No wonder he's often depicted as a type of Christ.<br /><br />I so want that to be said of me ~ and how I wish that for my kids!Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-75370677393576991772011-05-27T09:29:00.003-05:002011-05-27T09:55:15.609-05:00My Home ~ My MinistryTGIF ~ thank goodness it's Friday! Today is the final day of an incredibly busy week. This move has really done me in ~ physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I need to have order in my life, and having things in disarray for almost 3 weeks has gotten me down. Just as I try to organize things and get settled, something else needs to get done ~ laundry, cooking, general housework ~ did I mention laundry? I just couldn't get a handle on things and had fallen way behind. I was miserable!<br /><br />Wednesday was the hardest. I felt like a complete failure as a wife, mother, and homemaker. My home was disheveled. I was exhausted. I broke down. I cried tears of frustration, anger, regret, and self-pity. Thankfully, my husband was home. <br /><br />He quietly dismissed the children (who were flabbergasted to see their mommy have a major melt-down) and took me into his arms and let me cry. The solid strength of his chest and comfort of his arms allowed me to collapse into a sobbing mess. He stroked my hair and rubbed my back. He listened to my unintelligible mutterings.<br /><br />When I was finally spent, he took my face into his hands. Looking deeply into my eyes, he began to compliment me ~ he told me how much he loved me, how much he appreciated the work I had been putting into our home, how lovely things looked that I had finished, and how happy he was that I was his wife. His sweet words uplifted me.<br /><br />As I reflect back on my husband's love and patience, I can't help but think of Christ. He's waiting for me to bring my many burdens to Him. He knows the groanings of my spirit and wants me to share them with Him. Jesus loves me with an unconditional love. He is happy that I am His Bride. His precious Word uplifts me. And one day soon, He will say to me, "Well done."<br /><br />Lord, help me to focus my thoughts toward You and to Heaven.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-14006858426100978272011-05-18T11:53:00.002-05:002011-05-18T12:32:46.539-05:00Chocolate Surprise CupcakesHere's the promised recipe, Kaylee!<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350. Prepare cupcake pans.<br /><br />Prepare the "surprise" filling:<br /><br />Mix together:<br />1 8-oz. package softened cream cheese<br />1 egg<br />1 cup sugar<br />1 t vanilla<br /><br />Prepare your favorite chocolate cake recipe, or use a mix. Fill pans with cake batter. Drop a little of surprise filling in batter and sprinkle with a few mini chocolate chips. Bake cake according to directions. Let cool completely, and frost with chocolate frosting.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-10929651568274212812011-05-18T11:20:00.003-05:002011-05-18T11:50:36.636-05:00Boxes!Since we've moved, I've been unpacking a plethora of boxes! We have boxes of every size, shape, and color. Although I tried to label every box, many got stuff thrown in at the last minute. You know how it is when you move. You start out all organized and label everything carefully, but by the end, you just throw stuff in boxes to get it <em>out</em> of the house and <em>on</em> the truck!<br /><br />As I look at the 20 boxes that still litter my kitchen floor, bedroom, hallway and entryway, I begin to realize this is a spiritual metaphor.<br /><br />Although I know what general items are in the boxes, I don't know the contents of each one individually just by looking at the outside. I search the contents and move each box from place to place, distributing the items where they belong ~ either to keep, store, trash, or set back for a garage sale.<br /><br />We all have issues that burden us ~ hurts we keep in the imaginary boxes of our hearts. No one can tell the contents of our boxes just by looking at the outside. We can choose to distribute our items from place to place ~ keeping them within reach to allow anger or resentment to fester ~ storing them to revisit or to remind others how they've hurt us ~ setting them back to rehash with others. However, with God's help, we can choose to place them at the foot of the cross and let Jesus take them from us. In return, He will give us the grace, strength, and mercy we need to go on.<br /><br />"Come unto me," Jesus urges. "All ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-58810737512382798822011-05-16T15:26:00.005-05:002011-05-16T15:40:27.834-05:00Ministry of Motherhood<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxUk36bEzxqcDof0eOz93mK91IM4DkRGXxKAjAhQ3mhNn5jYFBjb70HRJ-k_absUnHc2xkRTi_LREKGPyBrE4lwb1pdr68PQorFvHWO9Jil3S-3cZd3J7Q29N_t7GNE2f1QUmBRfPS98/s1600/GMG+MOM+Button+150+%25283%2529.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607416466452110466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxUk36bEzxqcDof0eOz93mK91IM4DkRGXxKAjAhQ3mhNn5jYFBjb70HRJ-k_absUnHc2xkRTi_LREKGPyBrE4lwb1pdr68PQorFvHWO9Jil3S-3cZd3J7Q29N_t7GNE2f1QUmBRfPS98/s320/GMG+MOM+Button+150+%25283%2529.jpg" /></a>I began to post on this book last year, but got overly busy to post every day. I'm excited to begin this study again with the Good Morning Girls from <a href="http://www.womenlivingwell.org/">http://www.womenlivingwell.org/</a>. The blog button is in my sidebar if you're interested in joining. I'll begin blogging on this subject next Monday, May 23rd.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-89257007372504116592011-04-27T16:01:00.002-05:002011-04-27T16:06:06.438-05:0031 Days to Clean!Sarah Mae from <a href="http://www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com/">www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com</a> is giving away free copies of her newest <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ebook</span>, 31 Days to Clean - Having a Martha House in a Mary Way. I'm excited to read this book. I really enjoyed her other <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">ebook</span>, Core Lies. You can receive her book as well. Either blog about it, Tweet, or share on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span>.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-31733864459902294302011-04-15T11:01:00.002-05:002011-04-15T11:03:49.904-05:00Moving!I'm going to be taking a bit of a blogging break for the next few weeks as we get packed up and ready to move to the Ozarks. That's home for me ~ I'm so looking forward to getting back to my roots and reunite with old friends and family. Once we get settled, I'll resume blogging, perhaps by the middle/end of May.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-4530084141246843012011-04-14T08:30:00.000-05:002011-04-14T08:30:00.565-05:00Cheese & Herb Stuffed ChickenPreheat oven to 350 degrees.<br /><br /><br />6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin<br />Salt & Pepper<br />1 small tub of flavored cream cheese (chive & onion, garden vegetable)<br />4 T melted butter<br />1 large container French's Fried Onions, crushed<br /><br /><br />Season chicken breasts and place 1 T cream cheese in center of each breast. Roll up and secure with a toothpick. Dip in melted butter, then the crushed onions. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes or until done.<br /><br /><br />This is great served with chicken/broccoli rice mix and a California veggie medley.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-5010951375806186042011-04-07T08:30:00.002-05:002011-04-07T08:30:01.244-05:00Cheddar ~ Bacon ~ Onion ~ BiscuitsRee <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Drummond</span>, a.k.a. The Pioneer Woman, has a wonderful recipe for these savory breakfast gems on her website. However, I have a tendency to find ways to simplify things, so here's my spin, using the original biscuit recipe on the back of the Bisquick box:<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />8 slices of bacon, fried and crumbled (I like center-cut bacon for this)<br />1/2 onion, sauteed in 2 T butter<br />2 1/4 c. Bisquick<br />2/3 c. milk<br />1 c. shredded cheddar cheese<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 450. In a medium bowl, stir the Bisquick and milk until a soft dough forms. Stir in bacon, onion (with any extra buttery goodness) and cheese.<br /><br />Knead around 10 times on a surface dusted with Bisquick mix. Roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut with a 2 1/2 inch biscuit cutter. Place on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">ungreased</span> cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until golden. For extra richness, brush tops of biscuits with a little melted butter.<br /><br />I serve these <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">yummies</span> with scrambled eggs. Makes 8-9 biscuits.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-18124292924300950862011-03-31T14:25:00.001-05:002011-03-31T14:27:06.653-05:00FYII apologize for the reading quality of my last post. I've tried to fix it, but to no avail. It looks like one long, run-on sentence! Argh!Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-74700227167458609002011-03-31T13:20:00.005-05:002011-03-31T14:25:40.196-05:00Hospitality 101As I stated in an earlier post, the Lord really has been working in my heart about becoming more hospitable. I find myself wanting to invite folks over for dinner or just for fellowship, but it's challenging. Trying to coordinate schedules can be impossible! There's a wonderful lady in my church that I'm getting to know. We arranged to have dinner together in February. Our visit was relaxed and fun, peppered with laughter and serious discussions. We completely clicked as we shared how we met our husbands and what the Lord has been doing in our lives. We both were a little sad that our visit had to end, so I casually asked her if perhaps our families could get together sometime soon. Her immediate response was that she'd love to, but it wouldn't be until the end of March that we could get together. Their schedule was so crazy, they were doing <strong>something</strong> <strong>every</strong> evening! They were completely stretched thin! Now that April's on the horizon, I hope to invite this family over for some hospitality! I know that it's sometimes difficult for our family to get together with others because my hubs' work schedule is different every day. Sometimes he's home before 4 PM, other evenings it's not until 6 or even 7 before he returns home after a long day! His job is the kind where you don't get to go home until the work's done! Let's get back to the main point ~ hospitality. Scripture is very clear in the matter of hospitality. Paul encourages us as believers in Romans 12:13 that we are to "distribute (ing) to the necessity (or needs) of the saints; given to hospitality." Paul also writes to Timothy about the qualifications of a bishop, or pastor that "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, or good behavior, <strong>given to hospitality</strong>, apt to teach." (1 Timothy 3:2) Isn't it amazing that along with his impeccable reputation as a husband, a Godly man, a good judge of character and lives in an orderly manner, God's ideal pastor is known as a man that "treats strangers warmly and treat guests generously"? Wow. Did you notice that qualification is listed <strong>before</strong> being able to be skillful in teaching the Word of God? I don't know about you, but that speaks volumes to me! Titus 1:8 also states that a bishop is to be "...a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate." 1 Peter 4:9 says that we are to "use hospitality one to another without grudging (grumbling). That, too speaks volumes. No griping about having to clean the house or prepare a meal if you want to have a heart for hospitality! I've been praying about ways I can both have hospitality in my home and on the road. Once I've prayed for the Lord to show me ways, He's provided several opportunities. Providing meals for families in time of need has been one way, others have been to just drop a card or note to someone the Lord has brought to my mind. I want to incorporate a "Food, Fun, & Fellowship" night in our home, inviting a different family over once a month for dinner, games, & chat. For the "Food" part, I like to cook something easy that most everyone will like, such as Taco salad. Taco meat can be made ahead and kept in the Crock Pot; the fixings can be arranged so that everyone can make their own. I like to use both white and blue corn tortilla chips for fun. Dessert can be as easy as ice cream sandwiches or Drumsticks. Canned soft drinks and bottled water can be chilling in an ice chest. "Fun" is adding a game after dinner. A hilarious, fun, and sometimes (!) competitive game is "Catch Phrase". It gets the joint jumpin' every time! We usually play "boys against the girls" for a total blast. Other fun party games include "Guesstures", "Pictionary", "Pass the Pigs" and "Speed Uno". "Fellowship" is just getting to know one another better, sharing prayer requests and closing with prayer. We had such an opportunity this past weekend. We met a wonderful couple, Jeff & Stacy at a church my husband was filling the pulpit for. They graciously invited us out for burgers at Wendy's after the evening services. Even though we had only met them earlier that morning, we "clicked" with them. They are around 10 years older than we are, have 8 children, homeschool, and are very involved in the ministry. Simple burgers, fries & shakes were transformed to a feast as we chatted about family, ministry, the Bible, Bill O'Rilley, and Glenn Beck. We shared prayer requests and laughter. When we rose to leave 2 hours later, our hearts were knitted. As I hugged Stacy, she said, "Well, we'll see you again either here or in the air." What a treasure! Hospitality. It blesses you as much as it can bless others. Think about it.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-57736544519886604862011-03-28T08:30:00.002-05:002011-03-28T08:30:00.272-05:00Simply Cheese EnchiladasIngredients:<br /><br />3 c. shredded Cheddar-Jack blend cheese<br />5 oz. (half of the tub) Philly Cooking Creme, Santa Fe blend<br />1 c. picante sauce<br />1 medium diced red bell pepper<br />1/2 c. sliced green onions<br />1 can diced green chilies<br />8 flour tortillas<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray.<br /><br />Combine 2 cups of Cheddar-Jack cheese, cooking creme, 1/4 c. picante sauce, pepper, onion, and chilies. Mix well. Spoon filling into center of each tortilla. Roll and place seam side down in pan.<br /><br />Mix remaining cooking creme with remaining picante sauce. Pour over top of enchiladas, sprinkle with remaining cup of shredded cheese.<br /><br />Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted. Serve topped with lettuce, shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, and black olives. A side dish of creamy guacamole and tortilla chips round out this meal nicely!<br /><br />You can also add 1 lb. of cooked ground beef or 2 c. cooked, shredded chicken to the cheese mix.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-58561308282262314882011-03-24T13:34:00.008-05:002011-03-31T14:31:13.272-05:00SaltDisclaimer: This isn't a post about hospitality like I had planned. The Lord laid this on my heart early this morning. Hello. My name is Shelly ~ and I'm a die hard Food Network Junkie. I've been known to watch the Barefoot Contessa for an hour straight, even though I may have already seen the episode. I enjoy Paula Deen and Giada at Home. I actually bite my nails during Iron Chef and will admit that I've shed tears at the reveal during Restaurant Impossible. My kiddos love seeing how things are made on Unwrapped, and they absolutely adore Cupcake Wars. In fact, the hubs has been know to watch a little bit of "Triple D" (when nothing else was on, mind you!). My cooking as improved immensely ever since we had satellite installed ~ Food Network available. The hubs has even declared that it pays for itself because of the delicious, new dishes I've brought to the dinner table. I've picked up little tips and hints over that past years, but one that amazes me over and over is the use of ~ salt. Salt actually enhances and brings out the sweetness in sugar. I tried an <strong>amazing </strong>chocolate bar a few months ago that was a bittersweet chocolate laced with ~ of all things ~ sea salt. It was incredible! Salt also brings out the sugars in veggies, especially onions. I love sauteing onions in butter ~ there's nothing quite like that smell ~ and I add in a little pinch of salt. It causes the moisture in the onion to evaporate, and the natural sugars come out and caramelize the onion into tasty goodness! I also love roasting veggies, chicken breasts, and pork tenderloin with a mixture of salt, pepper, and olive oil. It's simply amazing what the salt does! I also have learned to toss in a good amount of salt when I'm boiling potatoes, rice, or pasta. None of these items have much flavor on their own, but when you add salt ~ flavor! Not only does salt season food, it also preserves food. I used quite a bit of pickling salt last summer during my pickle-making episode. I've seen Ina Garten use a rub of kosher salt and dill plus other spices to make gravlox. Salt can also used as an abrasive. Rachael Ray uses a bunch of coarse salt and garlic to make a garlic paste. I've seen Martha Stewart clean tarnished copper pans with a paste made of nothing but salt and a lemon wedge. Although inedible, rock salt melts the ice and keeps one from slipping on it. Salt. Who would have thought? Something so inexpensive and readily available can improve almost anything! I've now become a bit of a "Salt Snob". I have four different types of salt in the cabinet right now. Regular table salt ~ I bake and finish foods with it. Kosher salt ~ I cook with it all the time. Pickling salt ~ umm ~ I make pickles with it. I've also used it in baking since it dissolves so quickly. Coarse sea salt ~ I finish dishes with it when I want a salty bite, like on the crust of Chicken Pot Pie. As I did my little study on salt and its uses, the Lord reminded me of his command from the Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5:13) "Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." Also, the Apostle Paul wrote in his epistle (Colossians 4:6) "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man." That got me to thinking, "What kind of salt am I?" First of all, only the genuinely born-again person is salt and can help meet the needs of the world. Just as salt adds flavoring, acts as a preservative, melts coldness and heals wounds, we are called to do the same. Which brings me back to the question ~ What kind of salt am I? Do I enhance and bring out the sweetness of Christ in my life? Do I add a liveliness/flavor? Do I warm people, or leave them out in the cold? Are my words wholesome and encouraging? or am I too abrasive? If I "loose my savor", then I loose my effectiveness as a Christian. My "testimony will be trampled under the feet of men." So, my dear sister, "What kind of salt are you?"Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-77719831225168786222011-03-23T11:44:00.004-05:002011-03-23T13:04:32.075-05:00Hospitality ~ A Life That Says "Welcome"!Within the last year, the Lord has placed a desire in my heart to become more hospitable. I think there are many reasons why hospitality is no longer practiced like it was back in the day. First of all, we've become so busy that we barely have time together as families! Secondly, it's just downright intimidating! I know that some people feel the need to reciprocate, but they don't think that their house is clean/large enough to accommodate visitors. Some may believe they lacking the skills ~ in other words, they're not like Martha Stewart! After all, she <strong>is</strong> the "Domestic Diva"!<br /><br />Through careful study and reading several hospitality books, I've realized that hospitality <strong>isn't</strong> entertaining! Karen Ehman writes, "Entertaining puts emphasis on you and how you can impress others. Offering hospitality puts the emphasis on others and strives to meet their physical and spiritual needs so that they feel <em>refreshed</em>, not <em>impressed</em>, when they leave your home."<br /><br />With the desire to become more hospitable, I began to search the Internet for Christian-themed hospitality blogs. "Comfy in the Kitchen" is my favorite! (Her button is in my sidebar.) This young wife and mother truly has a heart for hospitality. She makes healthy, nourishing meals to bless other families. Her amazing meals are delivered to those in need, new moms, and families who are ill. I'm touched by her sincere desire to "give... a cup of cold water to one of these little ones (those who may not get noticed) because he is my disciple...." (NIV)<br /><br />I also admire the fact that she isn't so busy doing all these things that she neglects her family. They receive the same yummy meal, <strong>plus</strong> she's teaching her young children to be hospitable as well.<br /><br />Tomorrow I'll post some of the ideas of hospitality the Lord has laid on my heart. For now, remember: "Let us not love only in word... but in deed and in truth." (KJV)Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-46425766384150227122011-03-22T15:17:00.002-05:002011-03-22T16:06:17.770-05:00Decorating Your HomeOh, how I <strong>love</strong> to decorate! Give me a unadorned room, an unlimited supply of cash, and all the time in the world, and I'm in total bliss! Of course, it's a rarity to be able to live out the above scenario. In reality, we must make do with what we have and perhaps incorporate a few small expenditures for our vision to come to pass.<br /><br />As newlyweds, all of our furniture had been handed down from our parents and a wonderful friend of mine. For example, our now-bedroom dresser had once been my changing table as a baby. My father-in-law had made our bedroom side table when he was in high school. Most of our living room furniture had belonged to my parents. All the furniture was in reasonably good shape and had been well-cared for. <br /><br />As our family grew, however, things happened. Seven moves in seven years resulted in a broken hide-away couch. Infants initiated chair and couch cushions as only they can. The square footage of our living room varied from teeny-tiny apartments, awkwardly placed windows in a mobile home, weird extra rooms in an old Victorian, to the nicely sized area we live in now.<br /><br />When we bought our first home (we currently live there now) my "colors" were (because of the hand-me-downs) slate blue, mauve pink, and cream. Our new living room had newer, earth-tone carpeting and warm ivory walls ~ but the drapes! I believe the word <strong>hideous</strong> should be used here ~ bright, dark burgandy-red (mainly red) drapes that were backed with a heavy white rubber-like material. Since we didn't have the extra cash to purchase new ones, I knew I had to <strong>somehow</strong> incorporate bright burgandy into my palette of restful blues, delicate mauves, and creamy ivories.<br /><br />Fortunately, on a trip to either Khol's or Penny's, I found inexpensive throw pillows that had a floral pattern of blue, mauve, ivory, and ~ dark burgandy! A trip to Hobby Lobby enabled me to add inexpensive touches of burgandy to my floral arrangements, and voila! It worked!<br /><br />Our bedroom walls were bright yellow and white sponge painting ~ what were these people thinking? So we repainted it with a creamy white. When we could afford it, the hubs finished the walls with a decorative glaze that looks like denim. We topped it with a country border that has hearts and sunflowers and other blue flowers on a creamy shelf. Now the room is denim blue and cream with touches of brick red hearts and golden sunflowers. Since we didn't have a headboard, we purchased some European pillows that serve as our "headboard". <br /><br />My dream is to make my own headboard someday with plywood, batting, and denim fabric. We'd love to purchase a new bedroom set, but it's not in the budget. For now, my former changing table and my father-in-law's high school project are working just fine. Our old corner entertainment center houses our TV, and another hand-me-down entertainment table is my side table. God always provides for our needs, but He also blesses us with our wants, too. <br /><br />My father-in-law took pity on us shortly after we moved into our current home six years ago. He and my mother-in-law came over to watch the kiddos for us while the hubs & I went out for a date. F-I-L tried to take a nap on our tiny loveseat, but was unsuccessful. When the hubs & I arrived home, he informed us that they would be giving us some cash to get "a decent couch".<br /><br />A week later, we bought the current living room set we have now ~ and it was even on sale! With some of the extra cash, we bought a new entertainments center as well as a couple of nice end tables. I was thrilled to <strong>finally</strong> (!) get rid of the rubber-backed burgandy drapes that came with the house to a pleasing, nubby shade of olive green. Our living room is now done in comforting earth tones. The overall effect is cozy and restful. My idea of bliss!Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-2754196395276550302011-03-21T08:30:00.000-05:002011-03-21T08:30:03.142-05:00Hershey's Hot Fudge Pudding CakeI spotted this recipe in a magazine at least 17 years ago. When I <strong>really</strong> want chocolate, this hits the spot <strong>every</strong> time! The cake is extremely moist, and it has the most decadent, rich fudge sauce ~ a chocolate lover's dream!<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />1-1/4 c. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">granulated</span> sugar, divided<br />1 c. all-purpose flour<br />7 T. Hershey's cocoa powder, divided<br />2 t. baking powder<br />1/4 t. salt<br />1/2 c. milk<br />1/3 c. melted butter<br />1-1/2 t. vanilla extract<br />1/2 c. light brown sugar<br />1-1.4 c. <strong>hot</strong> water<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together <strong>3/4</strong> c. of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">granulated</span> sugar, flour, <strong>3 T</strong>. of the cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, butter, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.<br /><br />Spread batter into <strong><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">ungreased</span> </strong>8 or 9 inch square baking pan. In another small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 c. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">granulated</span> sugar, brown sugar, and remaining 4 T. cocoa. Sprinkle evenly over the batter. Pour hot water over the top of the dry ingredients. <strong>DO NOT STIR!</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />Bake 35-40 minutes or until center is almost set. Let stand 15 minutes; spoon into dessert dishes, spooning sauce from bottom of pan over the top. Garnish with whipped cream or serve with vanilla bean ice cream. <br /><br />For extra chocolate goodness, I love <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Breyer's</span> Triple Chocolate ice cream ~ white chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate all <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">together</span>! Delicious!Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-30112490785794879772011-03-19T01:05:00.001-05:002011-03-19T01:05:35.247-05:00The Art of Homemaking"Homemaking is an art, and you have the privilege of expressing and developing all your talents there in a little place called home. You get to build ~ beautify ~ organize ~ create ~ fuss ~ express yourself. You get to read and study and grow and master nutrition, finances, horticulture, design, wardrobe, et cetera.<br /><br />And you also get to shape your children, to give their precious lives a bent toward God. To nurture their souls with the good things of God. To pass on the truth about Jesus to one more generation.<br /><br />And to do so means you've got to be dedicated, organized, and a woman of purpose. And you've got to have the spunk and energy to follow through on all the dedication, organization, and purpose that answering God's high calling to homemaking requires."<br /><br />Elizabeth George, "A Woman's High Calling"Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-4281061382256509452011-03-14T08:30:00.001-05:002011-03-14T16:57:02.180-05:00Sausage StarsMy friend Kailley made these for a bridal shower. Needless to say, everyone asked for the recipe as they scarfed these tasty treats!<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />1 package wonton wrappers<br />1/2 lb. each of sausage and hamburger, browned & drained<br />3 c. shredded cheddar-jack blend cheese<br />1/2 c. sliced black olives<br />1/2 c. red bell pepper, finely minced<br />1 c. Ranch dressing<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin liberally with cooking spray. Gently place a wonton wrapper into each cup, forming a star shape. Spray again 3 times with the cooking spray. Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until golden.<br /><br />Meanwhile, combine the meats, olives, peppers, dressing, and cheese together in a mixing bowl. When wonton cups are golden, fill with meat mixture and bake another 7-10 minutes. You want the filling to bubble slightly and the cheese to melt. Enjoy!<br /><br />I usually cook 1 lb. each of the sausage & hamburger. I reserve the other half of the mixture for homemade pizza or spaghetti sauce the next day.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-37986506204320136792011-03-10T14:21:00.002-06:002011-03-10T14:49:25.845-06:00The Simple HomeAs a full-time homemaker, my greatest desire is that my family finds our home to be a haven of rest, a place of peace, and where their spirits can be renewed.<br /><br />As I've stated in previous posts, as homemakers, we control the atmosphere of our homes. In fact, our home is the only environment over which we have control. No matter what storms are taking place on the outside ~ whether physical or spiritual ~ our home should be a place of sanctuary.<br /><br />In her book "The Simple Home", Sharon Hanby-Robie writes, "For most of us sanctuary is synonymous with simplicity. Creating the simple home is not only practical for everyday living but also vital to spiritual health."<br /><br />Charles Keeler, a poet and playwright in 1906, wrote that "The ideal home is one in which the family may be most completely sheltered to develop in love, graciousness, and individuality, and which is at the same time most accessible to friends, toward whom hospitality is as unconscious and spontaneous as it is abundant. Emerson says that the ornament of a house is the friends who frequent it."<br /><br />Not only do I want my home to be a place of soul~nourishment for my family, but a place where my friends feel welcomed. <br /><br />My next posts will be about the purpose of a simple home, as well as decorating hints and my thoughts on hospitality.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-51430642170113532402011-03-08T13:48:00.003-06:002011-03-08T14:11:21.268-06:00My Mother-in-Law's Breakfast CasseroleMy wonderful mother-in-law made this breakfast for my husband & I when we came for a visit many years ago. She generously wrote out this recipe for me, and it has been one of my main "go-to" breakfasts for almost 14 years!<br /><br />1 package <strong>unseasoned</strong> stuffing cubes<br />1 lb. sausage, cooked & drained<br />1/2 c. sliced mushrooms (small can)<br />2 c. grated Cheddar cheese<br />1/4 c. finely minced onion, sauteed in 1 T butter<br />1 T. chives<br />3/4 c. cream<br />1 1/4 c. milk<br />6 eggs<br />1 t. mustard<br />1 t. Worcestershire sauce<br />salt & pepper to taste<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 and spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Place half of croutons on the bottom, then layer the sausage, cheese, onions, and mushrooms. Combine the cream, milk, eggs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chives, salt and pepper into a blender. Pulse until mixture is completely incorporated. Pour over the layers in the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.<br /><br />You can substitute bacon or ham for the sausage, or use a mixture of the three. You can also make it vegetarian by adding a variety of peppers or mushrooms.<br /><br />I usually serve this with my fruit salad and a glass of milk.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-83420877625961223122011-03-02T11:50:00.006-06:002011-03-02T13:06:02.768-06:00Meal Planning and MoreOne of the most important <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">responsibilities</span> of being a homemaker is to prepare nourishing, healthy meals for our family. As a bride, I was excited to cook for my new husband. However, as the years progressed, the excitement wore off. I was tired of the regularity of our evening meals, even though I had well over a month's worth of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">recipes</span>. I also wanted to be more creative than having the usual cereal for breakfast and mac-n-cheese for lunch!<br /><br />Answer to prayer ~ The Food Network! My favorite TV chefs are Paula <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Deen</span> & Ina <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Garten</span>. Also, the Internet! I love, love love Ree <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Drummond</span>, a.k.a. "The Pioneer Woman". All of these women prepare what I call <strong>regular</strong> food ~ delicious, simple food that doesn't involve expensive ingredients or <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">wierdo</span> combinations.<br /><br />The above-mentioned women were home cooks that expanded to businesses. Paula started her own catering service called "The Bag Lady". Ina bought a specialty food shop/catering business, and became known as "The Barefoot <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Contessa</span>". Ree began a simple blog to share her daily experiences on a ranch, but has burst out on the scene with her own successful cookbook and new novel. Now these women enjoy cooking for the sheer pleasure of it!<br /><br />I'm always in search of a new recipe, or a new way to do things to make my cooking better. I've learned through Ina that roasting food makes the flavors richer and concentrated. (Her recipe for roasted onions is amazing!) Paula has several recipes that have now become some of my family's favorites, such as her Mashed Baked Potatoes, and Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler, to name a couple. Ree's Chocolate Sheet Cake and 4-Cheese Pasta are incredible!<br /><br />Since the hubs gets paid every other week, I have to shop accordingly. The Thursday before, I sit down with cookbooks, printed recipes off the web, and my recipe box. I do my best to incorporate what I have on hand first as I choose 14 dishes for supper, breakfast, and lunch. I plan on 2 desserts per week and 2 appetizers for us to munch on Sunday evenings ~ our large meal is at lunchtime. Since our weekends are now open (Upward Basketball and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cheerleading</span> are over for the season) I'll plan 2 "big" breakfasts as well.<br /><br />After the meals are chosen, I write down everything I need to prepare them. I also try to plan easier meals for our busiest evenings ~ things I can make ahead or stick right into the oven. I write them down on a calendar, but I don't make a big deal of it. If I happen to cook Wednesday's meal on a Monday, it's totally okay.<br /><br />Here's my menu for this week 2/27-3/5:<br /><br /><strong>2/27</strong> B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk (Our norm for Sundays.)<br />L: We were able to eat out at our favorite Mexican restaurant, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Casa</span>. Yummy!<br />D: Popcorn ~ we were still full from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Casa</span>!<br /><br /><strong>2/28</strong> B: Cereal Bars, Fruit, Yogurt<br />L: <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">PBJ</span> Sandwich, Fruit, Water<br />D: Pizza, Salad<br /><br /><strong>3/1</strong> B: Waffles, Fruit, Milk<br />L: Leftover Pizza, Carrots w/ dip, Water<br />D: Meatloaf, Mac-n-Cheese, Green Beans, Water<br /><br /><strong>3/2</strong> B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk<br />L: Mini Ravioli, Fruit, Water<br />D: Chicken Pot Pie, Green Salad, Strawberry Jello w/ fresh whipped cream topping<br /><br /><strong>3/3</strong> B: Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Milk<br />L: Mac-n-Cheese, Fruit, Water<br />D: Tuna Noodle Casserole, Peas, Water<br /><br /><strong>3/4</strong> B: Blueberry Muffins, Fruit, Yogurt<br />L: Turkey & Cheddar Sandwich, Fruit, Water<br />D: Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Mixed Veggies, Chocolate Pudding, Water<br /><br /><strong>3/5</strong> B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk<br />L/D: We'll be in Kansas City all day for the annual <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">AWANA</span> games, so we'll be eating out.Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1174976789737937969.post-41089001180530598952011-02-24T11:36:00.003-06:002011-02-24T12:13:10.157-06:00The Home Manager ~ Responsiblity & AccountabilityBeing a homemaker means that we are given the responsibility to guide our homes. 1 Timothy 5:13-14 tells us that the young women of Timothy's church were "idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not." Their behavior let others outside of the church to speak poorly of Christians. Mrs. George writes, "Obviously, having a home to manage would contribute positively to these women's lives by, at the very least, eliminating the opportunity for these negative behaviors."<br /><br />I knew a woman such as this. Every day, after she dropped her kids off to school, she spent the majority of her day running around town to shop, eat out, and drop by to chat with other women of our church. Her speech wasn't edifying to others. She was almost prideful of the fact that she couldn't cook or didn't like to do housework. Most of her time was spent <strong>away</strong> from her home. How sad that she had bought into the lie that being a homemaker was something to avoid! <br /><br />Guiding our home means to preside over it or to be the mistress of it. Please do not mistake this as the woman being the head of the home. Our husband is. Instead, we manage the home ~ we are the house~<strong>holder</strong>.<br /><br />Just as in the familiar parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we will someday give an accounting of how well we've managed all that our Master has placed in our care!<br /><br /><strong>3 Tips to Remember:</strong><br /><br />1. <strong>Home management is God's best for us</strong>. We don't have to like it or feel like managing our homes, but God calls us to do it.<br /><br />2<strong>. Decide to take home management seriously</strong>. <br /><br />3<strong>. Live as though you'll be held accountable for the condition of your home and the use of your time because you will!</strong> How will the Lord and my family rate my service, my meals and my management?Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08486847053856496868noreply@blogger.com0