tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90587047775033523222024-02-07T22:12:57.000-08:00Tea at my TableIf you came by my door, I'd invite you in for a cup of tea at my table where we'd catch up on our lives. Consider yourself invited.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-70291842893282106552011-01-13T15:20:00.000-08:002011-01-13T15:34:05.527-08:00There seems to be some confusionMy dear friends,<br /><br />Thank you so much for following along on my blogging journey this last year. I have decided to not continue blogging. There are many reasons for this decision, but probably the most important one is I feel God is telling me to focus more on face to face relationships. Your support has been so valuable to me, thank you.<br /><br />Please know that you are always welcome to knock on my front door and I <span style="font-style:italic;">will</span> invite you in for a cup of tea. Anytime.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-35712326590206423442010-12-30T09:11:00.000-08:002010-12-30T11:15:02.629-08:00The End of the YearOh, my friends, I pray your Christmas was blessed and that you felt the presence of Christ. Our holiday was very good. I especially enjoyed the Christmas Eve service we attended. The music was beautiful and the message was inspiring.<br /><br />Later today we are headed up to the mountains with my in-laws to enjoy the snow and ring in the new year. We have no snow here in the valley but the mountains received about two feet of snow! That will make for great sledding!<br /><br />The end of the year has me looking back at 2010 to not only see what all we did this year, but also how was God faithful again to us. I am reminded over and over that He is. Praise you, Father. I've said it before and I'll say it till the day I die: I am nothing without Him. He has pulled me out of more pits than a body has a right to be pulled out of, but then, that's grace, isn't it? So undeserved. He gets all the glory for any good in my life. I believe that I recognize the path that leads to the pit a little quicker at the end of 2010 than I did at the beginning of the year. So I can change lanes sooner. This is the healing power of the Holy Spirit in me. <br /><br />As I look to 2011, I decided to set some goals for myself. I'm starting small, though, with 60 day goals. When March 1 arrives, I'll do it again. It feels so much more manageable this way. I won't be as tempted to procrastinate with a closer deadline. Do you make new year's resolutions? How are you at keeping them if you do?<br /><br />One of the changes for next year is this blog. I started this in January as a way to keep accountable with scripture memorization. I've done well with keeping accountable, though the verses aren't as cemented as I'd hoped they'd be by now. I have meditated on all of them quite a bit; I'm just not sure I could give you word for word each verse. But that's okay. Transformation is a life long process, not an overnight accomplishment. I kept the enemy at bay while thinking about those verses and that is a victory! I hope I've challenged you or inspired you to be in the Word this year. That was another of my goals for this blog. <br /><br />I want to mention here that I had one friend who committed to the scripture memorization and commented on each SMV day. Sherri, I am so proud of you! Way to go! (I took a picture with her, but with my computer gone for most of the month, it didn't get downloaded. Sorry, Sherri.) Also, my faithful Siesta friends I met in Houston, Karlys & Leslie - I looked forward to your emails twice a month. I can't wait to keep going next year and I want to see you in Houston again in 2012! <br /><br />I will tell you this "blogging thing" is much much harder than I thought it would be. It took discipline, creativity, frustrations at the techno world, getting over disappointment at the lack of comments, and a lot of faith. I've said things I wish I wouldn't have said; I wish I would have said different things this year. But I did learn a lot about myself, my family, my friends, and my faith. It's time, though, to end this chapter. Even though there haven't been comments left here, you've emailed me or talked to me and your support has been so greatly appreciated this year. Your encouragement often came at a time when I was ready to throw in the towel. It was just what I needed to keep going. So, thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You remain dear to me.<br /><br />My prayer for you for 2011 is what Paul prayed for the Ephesians in chapter 1: I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Amen.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-69809532458417909292010-12-23T12:52:00.001-08:002010-12-23T13:16:47.335-08:00Merry Christmas!Well, I still don't have my computer. Apparently the hard drive was bad. Needless to say, it won't be $75 to fix. *sigh* But that's not going to ruin my holiday spirit!<div><br /></div><div>All the presents are purchased and wrapped and under the tree. Our weekend festivities began last night with the watching of the BSU football bowl game. It was a rough start, but in the end, the Broncos shone and came out victorious. Way to go Broncos!</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight we celebrate with my niece and sister & family. Brittney is going to Phoenix tomorrow to be with her family for a couple of weeks. She's going to thaw out under the brilliant sunshine and blue sky of Arizona. To say she's not a winter person is an understatement. We are going to miss her and are glad to know she'll be back in January.</div><div><br /></div><div>Christmas eve will be spent at my in-laws for the traditional soup dinner. We are going to their church for a short service and then open presents. When I was growing up, our family would visit a different denomination every Christmas eve. Our church didn't have a service so it was a great way to experience other church's perspectives. We've been to Lakeview Bible before and really like the pastor, so I'm looking forward to tomorrow's service. It'll be a great way to focus on Christ.</div><div><br /></div><div>Christmas morning we'll open gifts with the kids and then go to my sister's for the afternoon/evening. My parents and brother & family will be together in Phoenix. We were all together this summer. I'm really really glad my sister lives here.</div><div><br /></div><div>I ran across this poem this week and thought I'd share it with you.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love stops the cooking to hug the child.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love is kind, though harried and tired.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I pray your Christmas is the merriest ever. May you be aware of how much He loves you.</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-8636231171287996612010-12-15T13:36:00.000-08:002010-12-15T14:06:43.786-08:00SMV #24!Hey friends! It's been crazy around here since I last posted. My computer got a virus, a bad virus. I took it to a place (shall remain nameless) that fixes sick computers and they wanted to charge me $170 to fix it. Seriously? At Christmas time? No, thanks, I'll try to figure something else out. My brother in law came over and tried to help, but, alas, it's December! I have other things to do this month! <br /><br />Then, I went to out of town last week with my daughter's school. Steve didn't have time to fix the computer, but did talk to a guy who recommended a guy to fix it, reportedly for less than $100. Well, since it's been over a week since the stinking thing went down, we caved and took it to the guy. $75 flat fee! Blessed news, indeed. It's still in the repair shop (I'm on my niece's laptop) but soon, very soon, I'll be back in business again.<br /><br />I've realized how dependent on the computer I've become. I've also realized how much I can get done in a day without the computer calling me for interruptions. Amazing. I've gone through some withdrawal symptoms, but I think it's getting out of my system. As with most things in life, I'm going to have to be purposeful about my computer time in the future. Success rarely comes through accident.<br /><br />On a related note, have you seen the Living Proof Blog on Beth Moore's website? She will be starting scripture memory again in 2011. I will be doing it again, as well. I would love it if you'd join us. The best way to fight the enemy's lies is with the truth of the Word in your hearts & minds. We must be equipped to fight, friends!<br /><br />The verses that have spoken to me recently are from Romans, chapters 7 & 8. In dealing with regret and guilt, I have found a lot of comfort from Paul's words in verses 7 - 25. I don't do what I want to do. I am a prisoner of the law of sin. What a wretched being I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?<br /><br />Thanks be to God - through Jesus Christ our Lord!<br /><br />I wanted to do a nice Christmas verse from Luke. End the year with fuzzy warm feelings. But my reality is a little more complicated than that. I am in constant and desperate need of a Savior. I am a wreck without Him. Jesus came to be that Savior. That is what Christmas is to me this year. So here are the last verses for the year 2010:<br /><br />Romans 8:1-2 (NIV) <span style="font-style: italic;">Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus, the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.</span><br /><br />What does the Christ of Christmas mean to you this year? Let's be purposeful in our celebrating. Remember to leave your verse in the comments.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-79813832886143509972010-11-30T19:48:00.000-08:002010-12-01T09:16:14.478-08:00Vacation & SMV #23I've had much to tell you since we've been home from our travels. But I had to conquer Mt. Laundry, restock food supplies, cyber shop on Monday (I missed black Friday, much to my chagrin) and re-enter reality. It's been rough.<br /><br />Our vacation last week was great. We went to visit Steve's sister and family in Charleston, South Carolina. The weather was warm, there were still leaves on the trees and we got to see the Atlantic Ocean. Here's a brief recap:<br /><br />We took a tour boat to Caper's Island where we walked on Boneyard Beach. All the dead trees on the beach looked like huge dinosaur bones, thus the name. There were lots of shells, which the kids loved. We were allowed to bring a couple home.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj291cMFqMECMEMVmu7lODz5cEevpKbz7hKhyphenhyphenH36PYy8Hnc4SLQV3p0PdutQbcLSUfA_T1r_gAoJ1WKuGpnkJuvfNAzwQZ76eL7bn-uzIsKWcl2lyRpnNSZlwoIBf4qm2OZ_vAJf79SMpA/s1600/DSC00532.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj291cMFqMECMEMVmu7lODz5cEevpKbz7hKhyphenhyphenH36PYy8Hnc4SLQV3p0PdutQbcLSUfA_T1r_gAoJ1WKuGpnkJuvfNAzwQZ76eL7bn-uzIsKWcl2lyRpnNSZlwoIBf4qm2OZ_vAJf79SMpA/s320/DSC00532.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545559487090539314" border="0" /></a><br />We saw 5 dolphins on our way to Caper's Island. So beautiful!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbtQxw_EurVMHPUv_7dPUWsqwD29jp-cCQWR66MP5K3t1dVg5AfQ71Gxa_phuqC9TtZhTbYsWQYusdwabRY0EncQn3FIVLCyJ9fUou89l45ERpcsfuV_1-jFR-F8dO2Sh_qLduyJiU4o/s1600/DSC00512.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbtQxw_EurVMHPUv_7dPUWsqwD29jp-cCQWR66MP5K3t1dVg5AfQ71Gxa_phuqC9TtZhTbYsWQYusdwabRY0EncQn3FIVLCyJ9fUou89l45ERpcsfuV_1-jFR-F8dO2Sh_qLduyJiU4o/s320/DSC00512.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545556734016479954" border="0" /></a><br />We toured a plantation. This is the Avenue of Oaks at Boone Hall Plantation. Mr. Boone planted live oaks along 3/4 mile of his driveway. It is stunning!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXubJRKwAKEBwJAku8PMHprARbo3tptLZbnpz1HB7INhoHa7XMy_pDysvOBtrdw0DRONkt9DQ7C-4b5n90y5Rwul7UPB_hzWFENh7ERdxdCU0A4-s_U42iui-NS48I29TtDQbv-TOnH0/s1600/DSC00617.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXubJRKwAKEBwJAku8PMHprARbo3tptLZbnpz1HB7INhoHa7XMy_pDysvOBtrdw0DRONkt9DQ7C-4b5n90y5Rwul7UPB_hzWFENh7ERdxdCU0A4-s_U42iui-NS48I29TtDQbv-TOnH0/s320/DSC00617.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545558572956299970" border="0" /></a><br />This is sunset on the beach on Thanksgiving day. We were at Isle of Palms, just 10 minutes from my in-laws home. It was a gorgeous day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGqq5fg_NE-62ybug599fLOG1NLVQmyg6Aee2N4D6vfJSgt7TS08U_FeAszpHjzvgt-Szd9g6tnkrvvZrz1w5eix6Caez7vyZ6LQbGuBgTGN4Ey9C3Oa_kC9m1Re_0P-5HVtPfMdi8F4/s1600/DSC00607.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGqq5fg_NE-62ybug599fLOG1NLVQmyg6Aee2N4D6vfJSgt7TS08U_FeAszpHjzvgt-Szd9g6tnkrvvZrz1w5eix6Caez7vyZ6LQbGuBgTGN4Ey9C3Oa_kC9m1Re_0P-5HVtPfMdi8F4/s320/DSC00607.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545558038405052706" border="0" /></a><br />We visited the aquarium in Charleston. Here's a sea turtle. We also saw an albino alligator, sharks, pelicans, starfish, jelly fish and so many amazing creatures.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz8JSP5mfh_MVgXkBbtnTguO9M1UQGV_N1VHDpQPoNYqUpDy1M854oq3trYbN0XOaoopI1SOgv0EUNMXaufM-Qs9nuP8wo3jlNfnAV287nwqAz5_YS9ho_QoTSo92HWVkTQbws3mybhk/s1600/DSC00568.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifz8JSP5mfh_MVgXkBbtnTguO9M1UQGV_N1VHDpQPoNYqUpDy1M854oq3trYbN0XOaoopI1SOgv0EUNMXaufM-Qs9nuP8wo3jlNfnAV287nwqAz5_YS9ho_QoTSo92HWVkTQbws3mybhk/s320/DSC00568.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545557481134666786" border="0" /></a><br />Here are my three favorite people at Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston. We had such a great week together.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_GA9_KqPOYJgSgIeqenrUblYQbYgmNMpZqlf0dKQq-ye5JrXHzAL4OBHNJX62r82wTSUiduH27-MqaPl0J_co3HwQGMVOM7fi8_Z8GB60mE-Eimo6THpzfJxmgIvbyPaRVCQX7ICbc4/s1600/DSC00492.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_GA9_KqPOYJgSgIeqenrUblYQbYgmNMpZqlf0dKQq-ye5JrXHzAL4OBHNJX62r82wTSUiduH27-MqaPl0J_co3HwQGMVOM7fi8_Z8GB60mE-Eimo6THpzfJxmgIvbyPaRVCQX7ICbc4/s320/DSC00492.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545753609462327426" border="0" /></a><br />It is good to be home again. Although the temperatures are about 45 degrees colder here. In fact, today is a snow day from school! Only about the third one in my kid's school life! Here's what we woke up to this morning:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRGLBdAkVry7qu7MLHIe8GnU3wDwBZrHwkQkURi3ljCEloj58ZzpZwPm85whs0DzvT-ks5Ygd4kIkuyubl3HY2AmmMaLOKWD-wxUvrK7aXsstyFlnR3AXElKstJlhaPl2K39YyZUBTAo/s1600/DSC00637.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRGLBdAkVry7qu7MLHIe8GnU3wDwBZrHwkQkURi3ljCEloj58ZzpZwPm85whs0DzvT-ks5Ygd4kIkuyubl3HY2AmmMaLOKWD-wxUvrK7aXsstyFlnR3AXElKstJlhaPl2K39YyZUBTAo/s320/DSC00637.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545754676301306626" border="0" /></a>That building in the background is my son's elementary school. It started snowing yesterday afternoon and it's still coming down. Big, beautiful flakes. I'd say we've got about 8 inches in our backyard. It drifted a lot last evening and night, so it's a little hard to tell exactly how much is there. The kids are planning fort building, snowman making and possibly sledding. I love free days like this. I think I'll make some Christmas cookies and finish decorating the house for the holiday.<br /><br />I've been playing Christmas music this week. The one CD I keep playing over and over is Chris Tomlin's Glory in the Highest. This is a must-buy if you don't have it. One of my favorites is "My soul magnifies the Lord", though it's hard to pick favorites on this CD. This song inspired my memory verse from Luke 2:46-47&49:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for the Mighty One has done great things for me -- holy is his name."</span><br /><br />Indeed, He has done great things for me. And for you.<br /><br />Thank you for stopping by today. I so appreciate your support!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-23577561182744793162010-11-20T16:44:00.000-08:002010-11-20T16:50:40.475-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 20Today I am thankful for vacations and airplanes to take us on vacation. We will be gone several days and I may or may not post on here while we are away. My heart is full of thanksgiving at this season. <br /><br />I pray your holiday is full of joy and peace. May your hearts be full and content. Remember to thank the Giver of all good things.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-4140514232201260522010-11-19T17:12:00.000-08:002010-11-19T17:23:43.293-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 19TGIF!<br /><br />I am thankful that I am staying home to watch the BSU Bronco football game. It is cold, wet and there's a chance of snow. Our season seats are in the nose-bleed section and I can't even tell you how it feels when the wind starts blowing up in the stratosphere. But by staying home, we are missing out on the game day spirit. Steve is at the game, though. The bank he works for is sponsoring the tailgating party today. I'm sad to miss that part. But it's nice to be warm & dry.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-5132405556869680622010-11-18T15:04:00.000-08:002010-11-18T15:15:22.143-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Days 17 & 18I forgot to post yesterday. I composed it in my head. Just didn't get translated to the keyboard. My brain is tired, that's my excuse.<br /><br />Yesterday I was so thankful for my bible teachers. The way they explain the scriptures is amazing. I love to learn the original language, how the two testaments correspond to each other and how it relates to my life today. A good teacher is a gift.<br /><br />Today I am thankful that the weekend is very very near. We are going away for the holiday next week and I can't wait. We all need a break from our routines. We all need to sleep, relax and spend time together. But until then, we are running around like crazy animals trying to get everything done. You know how it is before a trip. <br /><br />One week from today is Thanksgiving! So looking forward to turkey and all the fixin's. Have a great day!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-41121078370592238002010-11-16T13:56:00.000-08:002010-11-16T14:00:51.086-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 16Today I am thankful for the Christian radio station here in the valley. I've been listening since I moved here years ago and they have come a long way since then. It used to be college kids, I think, as DJ's. But the music has always been encouraging, worshipful & full of praise. I'm so glad my kids prefer it, too. In fact, they've received "Adventures in Odyssey" CD's as gifts because we first heard it on the radio. I appreciate that it's family friendly.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-90988981738789508762010-11-15T06:52:00.000-08:002010-11-15T06:59:52.153-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 15 & Scripture Memory VerseHappy Monday morning! The verse I picked for today continues with my theme of thanksgiving. It's from Psalm 136, verse 1:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">His love endures forever.</span><br /><br />I really want to meditate on how He is good and how his love endures.<br /><br />Today I am thankful for the sunrise. The colors this morning were beautiful, pinks, corals, oranges, yellows against the blue of the sky. Fantastic!<br /><br />I am also thankful for my husband. He has been working so very hard this month. Going in early, staying late, working weekends. He is amazing in so many ways. I'm glad he gets a vacation soon.<br /><br />Thank you for stopping by today. I appreciate it. Have a really great day!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-14082838361021618252010-11-13T17:26:00.000-08:002010-11-13T17:30:14.996-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 13Today I was thankful to stay home and work. I made 7 quarts of tomato sauce from my garden tomatoes, I made pumpkin bread, did some laundry, worked in the flower beds and even caught a short nap. I am thankful to have preserved fruits and vegies in my pantry and freezer. So yummy. <br /><br />I am really thankful tomorrow is a day of rest.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-66652155058216398772010-11-12T20:13:00.001-08:002010-11-12T20:16:23.305-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 12Friends, I can't make this stuff up.<br /><br />We had Chinese food for supper tonight. This was my fortune:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuULV8YUuFG5e2bZdFxnfpH0b-y7RIZqjG_VNnzESTaTcw0JbxEilwFjYGbD8c_8Ugz0adw3fwuSZjxB7U9BTS4Zn_vfDyXjdNy4nqty2SQm6-wGC_yIY4RcPmzj1p9hQmIrCupb6couE/s1600/DSC00477.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuULV8YUuFG5e2bZdFxnfpH0b-y7RIZqjG_VNnzESTaTcw0JbxEilwFjYGbD8c_8Ugz0adw3fwuSZjxB7U9BTS4Zn_vfDyXjdNy4nqty2SQm6-wGC_yIY4RcPmzj1p9hQmIrCupb6couE/s320/DSC00477.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538883052636372338" border="0" /></a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-358226407558498622010-11-11T06:21:00.000-08:002010-11-11T06:24:55.957-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 11Thank you, veterans, for your service and sacrifice. I pray for peace and protection so that all our service men and women can come home safely. Thank you for what you've done for the rest of us.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-26610587699594514572010-11-10T13:47:00.000-08:002010-11-10T13:56:39.405-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 10We are one third of the way through the month. Oh my goodness.<br /><br />I am thankful for my electricity, especially my washing machine, dryer and (gas) fireplace. I push a button and *presto* water, heat, flame! Sweet. These make my life so much easier & more comfortable. I'm just so glad I don't have to cut, haul and stack firewood for our very survival. I used to dream of being a pioneer woman but now, no way. Thank you, Lord, for modern conveniences. Amen.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-80172316979264754762010-11-09T13:39:00.000-08:002010-11-09T13:47:47.081-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 9If you are stopping by for the first time today, welcome. I'm doing a 30 day project called Attitude of Gratitude. I'm encouraging thankfulness for the whole month instead of just one day. You can tell me what you're grateful for by leaving a comment, emailing me or you can cultivate this attitude in your homes. Talk about what you're thankful for around the dinner table, write in a journal every day, etc. I am posting what I am thankful for here on the blog and we share around the table each evening. I've been blessed this last week and I pray you have too.<br /><br />Today I am thankful for the sunshine, toffee mocha lattes and a quiet afternoon. Not too deep or spiritual. I'm just appreciating the little things.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-39488214159583072022010-11-08T06:38:00.000-08:002010-11-08T06:47:23.483-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 8Today I'm thankful for things that at first glance appear to be opposites. I'm thankful for weekends to relax, watch football, & be with family. I'm also thankful for Monday mornings when we go back to our respective places (work, school). I'm thankful for the end of daylight savings so we get an extra hour of sleep one night a year and an extra hour of daylight in the morning for a few weeks. But I'll be thankful come spring when we turn the clocks ahead again. I'm thankful for the rain yesterday but I'm loving the sunshine this morning. I guess you could say I wouldn't be as appreciative of any of these opposites without the other. Does that even make sense to you? I hope so. Anyways, have a good Monday!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-78993445838498232872010-11-07T10:00:00.000-08:002010-11-07T10:13:10.480-08:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 7I am thankful for my church today. My pastors seek hard after God and his truth daily. They are messengers of His word. They challenge me, encourage me, teach me, and continually point me to our Savior. I am so grateful they are obedient vessels of the Spirit. And I am grateful they are real with us, we know they are humans also in need of a Savior. <br /><br />I want to encourage you to express your appreciation for your church leaders this week. Let them know what they mean to you. I once heard someone ask, "have you ever heard of an over-encouraged pastor?" No, often we hear of burn-out, discouragement, etc. Be that voice of gratitude to a leader in your church.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-22228639867353117632010-11-06T16:09:00.000-07:002010-11-06T16:18:37.965-07:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 6My heart is full of thanksgiving today. I said it yesterday, but I am so thankful for my parents and my family. We're having a really good time together and I feel I am soaking it in. I'll try to remember to post pictures later.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HWSW9NwC8ny7vT4CItl1crLIKCONXDik5VAQRdk2CJLJr-XsHjmEdCy6rhlvb8GbVXO7csfeAZomDXFabA2LEb6qgWBpZ0Vpt3SDthfhhx7VXf7J-cQCqYGb_i_e4ylc-ZQJ8LaMQ_o/s1600/DSC00418.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HWSW9NwC8ny7vT4CItl1crLIKCONXDik5VAQRdk2CJLJr-XsHjmEdCy6rhlvb8GbVXO7csfeAZomDXFabA2LEb6qgWBpZ0Vpt3SDthfhhx7VXf7J-cQCqYGb_i_e4ylc-ZQJ8LaMQ_o/s320/DSC00418.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536578963605779298" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm so glad God made so many colors. All the trees could've been the same, all the landscape one color. We wouldn't have known different if that's the way it always was. But He chose to give us these vibrant colors! Awesome. Each season has it's own colors and this fall in Idaho has been beautiful.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-84614481012531488232010-11-05T08:03:00.000-07:002010-11-05T08:10:53.282-07:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 5We've been waiting for this day all week! My parents are coming to town for a long weekend and I am so glad. I'm thankful for my dad and my mom, for the way they raised us, for the foundation they built for our family. I'm so very thankful that my family of origin all get along and <span style="font-style: italic;">like</span> to be together. We are not perfect, by any means. But we've all been saved by the grace of our Lord and we all love Him. I do not take that for granted. That is a GIFT. <br /><br />Anyways, we've got fun things planned: shopping, football, baking cookies w/Grandma, along with other activities. It's going to go too fast, but we're going to enjoy it while we can. <br /><br />Have a great Friday!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-71369752456224055682010-11-04T06:16:00.000-07:002010-11-04T06:26:09.516-07:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 4I am so thankful for our family dinner hour. Now that sports have subsided for us, we are back to a more regular schedule regarding supper. We literally spend an hour at the table, sharing our days with each other, what we're thankful for that day and there has been much laughter. It is my favorite part of the day. My prayer is that my children remember these times as happy memories, too, when they are gone from our house. They are a treasure to this mother.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-63726656832122035352010-11-03T06:46:00.000-07:002010-11-03T06:58:32.231-07:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 3I'm thankful that I got to vote yesterday. I'm not the most educated voter and I probably don't take it as seriously as I should. But I'm glad to know my voice is heard. I'm also equally as thankful that the political phone calls and commercials will end now. They were mighty intense and quite frequent in the last two weeks.<br /><br />I'm thankful that I have the freedom to go to Bible study today at my church. I don't have to be afraid that I'll be arrested for studying the Bible. Many people don't have that freedom. Many people love the Lord as the only member of their family. My whole family loves the Lord and I have a strong Christian heritage and for that, I am eternally grateful.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-52202727703285335792010-11-02T06:48:00.000-07:002010-11-02T06:58:20.022-07:00Attitude of Gratitude Day 2Today I am grateful for my friends: Tiffany, Lorain, Christina, Dawne & my sister, Monica. Together we celebrate birthdays & blessings, study God's word, encourage each other as moms & wives & women. My life is so rich because of you. I love you.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tZPPZLawOZ28mi_EytSLyweCuHVJn6GbpvVYjsia4aCVN52VIWf3l8C7HpiruohYD9hLDiIlwD4GocgAdt57ZmZfrJUV2_5cFYM0k5ej_45t75Cb5tWKSwhq6BrFNgkO-Z54-chMRfc/s1600/DSC00426+%281%29.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 138px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tZPPZLawOZ28mi_EytSLyweCuHVJn6GbpvVYjsia4aCVN52VIWf3l8C7HpiruohYD9hLDiIlwD4GocgAdt57ZmZfrJUV2_5cFYM0k5ej_45t75Cb5tWKSwhq6BrFNgkO-Z54-chMRfc/s320/DSC00426+%281%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534950132317618194" border="0" /></a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-91739584241474210172010-11-01T06:50:00.000-07:002010-11-01T08:18:50.927-07:00Scripture Memory Verse #21 & a 30 day projectAh, sweet November. How glad I am that you are here. The scary decorations come down and the harvest/thanksgiving ones go up - that is if you can find that one shelf in the store that's not red and green yet.<br /><br />I heard on the radio recently a woman commenting on marriage. She said if your mate is 80% what you hoped for/dreamed of/are happy with, why are you focusing on the 20% that isn't? Wow. Kinda hit me between the eyeballs. I can get so focused on the negative I lose perspective on how great my marriage, let alone my life, really is. I don't think I am alone. That's where my 30 day project comes in. For the month of November, I am going to try to post something everyday that I am thankful for. I first heard of this idea <a href="http://www.raisingfutureesthers.blogspot.com/">here</a>. Thanksgiving can be a way of life, not just one day we celebrate each year. I want to adopt an attitude of gratitude and I'm challenging you to join me. What do you say? I'd love it if you'd leave me a comment and if you haven't figured out how to do that, email me and I'll try to help you. You could also start a journal of gratitude, or a thanksgiving tree that you add leaves of thanksgiving to, or share around the dinner table every night, or maybe you have another idea. I'd love to hear it.<br /><br />In light of that, here's my verse from Psalm 118:28 NIV: <span style="font-style: italic;">You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. </span>The bible says that every good and perfect gift is from above. Let's give Him the thanks he is due. Amen? Amen.<br /><br />Here's what I'm thankful for today. Two things, actually. First, I was barely in my car this weekend. After two months of driving hither and yon with my kids, this is<span style="font-style: italic;"> huge</span> in my book. And when I was in the car, I was not driving. I was a passenger. It was sweet. I did go places, but half of them I walked to.<br /><br />Second, I got to take my son trick-or-treating last night. It was fun to walk with him and his best friend (who were both clone troopers and looked like twins and were both very annoyed with anyone who called them a storm trooper). I confess I was mad at my hubby because he didn't want to take our boy out, but in the end, I was blessed because I did. I am thankful for any time my son wants to spend with me and when we can really communicate, it's a win-win.<br /><br />So, my friends, will you join me this month in an attitude of gratitude? Thanks so much for stopping by. You are so appreciated.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-68805526752033791092010-10-25T19:07:00.000-07:002010-10-25T19:45:48.064-07:00Pumpkin Bars - yum!In the spirit of the <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/">Pioneer Woman</a>, I'm giving you a delicious recipe today. A dessert perfect for this time of year. I originally got this recipe from <span style="font-style: italic;">Good Housekeeping</span> several years ago. It's a family favorite.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpe6y4pEd1XBDCBQhYCIOyGwX69Q-c8Tjxt6aZ5fNeb07wf2d4cTHZbkBaGsa7AZCTguWKHFu9OJ4MpN-uFglVth2B-gxaW1VKyoMmUYW_vFM1-RniUs6h4Ll62lznaF9kR0d2W8pHTvo/s1600/DSC00434.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpe6y4pEd1XBDCBQhYCIOyGwX69Q-c8Tjxt6aZ5fNeb07wf2d4cTHZbkBaGsa7AZCTguWKHFu9OJ4MpN-uFglVth2B-gxaW1VKyoMmUYW_vFM1-RniUs6h4Ll62lznaF9kR0d2W8pHTvo/s320/DSC00434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532174566835632642" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here's the line-up of ingredients: (by the way, I doubled the ingredients to bake in a pan measuring 10.5" x 14.75". If you want a 9 x 13, just 1 1/2 the recipe)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmT4Sbyhw7PLtrJr3jc4wMLIMlw1KLUHazoEORWs-xDPiXz0XS2iBN5l-FEM9CaDntg16D9BQvy-YrLjkxJfX6mrgbhDFwiuFH9PKRRZfSzHum6-YtqT3FEqBFYAhdjM8MA8A5DjHqmA/s1600/DSC00432.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmT4Sbyhw7PLtrJr3jc4wMLIMlw1KLUHazoEORWs-xDPiXz0XS2iBN5l-FEM9CaDntg16D9BQvy-YrLjkxJfX6mrgbhDFwiuFH9PKRRZfSzHum6-YtqT3FEqBFYAhdjM8MA8A5DjHqmA/s320/DSC00432.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532173656152857826" border="0" /></a>Sugar, eggs, flour, pumpkin, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, oil, salt. Easy peasy.<br /><br />First, cream the sugar and eggs for two minutes. Yes, two whole minutes. Then add the pumpkin and oil. Mix well.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TrwOZlgt4ayouVq5lRgZmeP9X5qsbhhEjgoFykKkiwtnA6BBCLUM0HTDjqZeiocwRrVcNhmYyCxDJRhmtEM_FIt0gtLcmZ5aQOxidem-TseEUepU-wWalQZWETsXS0ulsFxbFAXfKXo/s1600/DSC00428.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TrwOZlgt4ayouVq5lRgZmeP9X5qsbhhEjgoFykKkiwtnA6BBCLUM0HTDjqZeiocwRrVcNhmYyCxDJRhmtEM_FIt0gtLcmZ5aQOxidem-TseEUepU-wWalQZWETsXS0ulsFxbFAXfKXo/s320/DSC00428.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532173317988416802" border="0" /></a><br />Isn't this a beautiful color? mmmmm....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5pBp6o6EtDpw3PnbQueYogrMa3ugW3A685tgxBaVhYCt_S7Mzc3CfTcc-DSiYXgMM1-QuAvZpHjcztL0U1Yztn_OMG7h2CXi3RINgH3_TcmudQovD1T6bIfsZ6EjsJ2PeWEspq3ObH4/s1600/DSC00429.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5pBp6o6EtDpw3PnbQueYogrMa3ugW3A685tgxBaVhYCt_S7Mzc3CfTcc-DSiYXgMM1-QuAvZpHjcztL0U1Yztn_OMG7h2CXi3RINgH3_TcmudQovD1T6bIfsZ6EjsJ2PeWEspq3ObH4/s320/DSC00429.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532172567943132050" border="0" /></a><br />Next, with the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients. Beat for one minute.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dHsryH0t7m3spiPJiBqNv5WHuFc_vDmhe9gn-zE7KGyE8YZQcdO9-CeKLUPUNamGthUuQPytGlcqkTfPwV5yPAZlJ0oxD7AXJ9Pohi6xKPnzkALfFdife_YGE4vkuxaTMnmyml7_YvI/s1600/DSC00430.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dHsryH0t7m3spiPJiBqNv5WHuFc_vDmhe9gn-zE7KGyE8YZQcdO9-CeKLUPUNamGthUuQPytGlcqkTfPwV5yPAZlJ0oxD7AXJ9Pohi6xKPnzkALfFdife_YGE4vkuxaTMnmyml7_YvI/s320/DSC00430.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532172235453054770" border="0" /></a><br />Pour into prepared pan and bake. Cool.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidErqfnOtpVFH-w-MFPvWlQ6x8WHakr45g3DKu8mowZtTft9coqNLCsZ5apsEh3Muzkm7jo4vh2t4bUye8qjKOsygHqI6TquemCdCj5boZIqgWcEnGio7YXvWFNOc7HVYhgx2q9B_jkZU/s1600/DSC00431.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidErqfnOtpVFH-w-MFPvWlQ6x8WHakr45g3DKu8mowZtTft9coqNLCsZ5apsEh3Muzkm7jo4vh2t4bUye8qjKOsygHqI6TquemCdCj5boZIqgWcEnGio7YXvWFNOc7HVYhgx2q9B_jkZU/s320/DSC00431.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532171831958937682" border="0" /></a><br />Here's the cast of characters for the frosting: Powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter (not pictured) & vanilla.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tTcxIvXK5pQaO3_6b7A4X98EQdnSJUvic1yLv_M0H7PCh3Bp7Fp5W8B0SGxJekli_l4AHe7ZLqDxeLPfXg1jlWe9U_Ign3jkSv4DKj-Q7Ma1P4z-5uCTDUrcJvg94BpOuEqIYgph3t8/s1600/DSC00433.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tTcxIvXK5pQaO3_6b7A4X98EQdnSJUvic1yLv_M0H7PCh3Bp7Fp5W8B0SGxJekli_l4AHe7ZLqDxeLPfXg1jlWe9U_Ign3jkSv4DKj-Q7Ma1P4z-5uCTDUrcJvg94BpOuEqIYgph3t8/s320/DSC00433.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532171463359171730" border="0" /></a>Mix for two minutes or until fluffy. Sometimes I add a little milk to thin the frosting, maybe 1 or 2 tablespoons.<br /><br />Here's the finished cake. Seriously good stuff, friends. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioaSH1w0J_KdpIIT2CWJtbXylSfc4TqaZbof9u9P5r0XtM78Hq19ZWCHbkolV8xPA623GoJ5mPU1J1qbQO883waPWX6n7jkdmiio5iiniZvT0XOxJnWZ481FiFO6Kg4srx47Pr_2Esq94/s1600/DSC00434.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioaSH1w0J_KdpIIT2CWJtbXylSfc4TqaZbof9u9P5r0XtM78Hq19ZWCHbkolV8xPA623GoJ5mPU1J1qbQO883waPWX6n7jkdmiio5iiniZvT0XOxJnWZ481FiFO6Kg4srx47Pr_2Esq94/s320/DSC00434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532171028369056450" border="0" /></a>Make it soon! Let me know if you do. Here's the recipe:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Bars</span><br /><br />1 c. sugar<br />2 eggs<br />1 cup canned pumpkin<br />1/2 c. vegetable oil<br />1 c. flour<br />1 tsp. cinnamon<br />1 tsp. baking soda<br />1/2 tsp. baking powder<br />1/2 tsp. salt<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9" square pan.<br /><br />Prepare cake: in bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat sugar and eggs 2 minutes. Beat in pumpkin and oil. At low speed, add flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder & salt; beat one minute.<br />Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 25-30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack.<br /><br />Frosting: 3/4 c. powdered sugar, 1/4 c. cream cheese, 2 Tablespoons butter, soft, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Beat on low for 2 minutes or until fluffy. Spread on cooled cake.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9058704777503352322.post-72220758891456097222010-10-24T16:50:00.000-07:002010-10-24T17:26:39.483-07:00Unashamed<span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://praiseweekly.com/eric-s-picks/35-songreviews/94-unashamed.html" class="contentpagetitle"></a></span>by Starfield<br /><em><br />I have not much to offer You<br />Not near what You deserve<br />But still I come because Your cross<br />Has placed in me my worth<br /><br />O Christ, my King of sympathy<br />Whose wounds secure my peace<br />Your grace extends to call me friend<br />Your mercy sets me free<br /><br />And I know I’m weak, I know I’m unworthy<br />To call upon Your name<br />But because of grace, because of Your mercy<br />I stand here unashamed<br /><br />I can’t explain this kind of love<br />I’m humbled and amazed<br />That You’d come down from heaven’s heights<br />And greet me face to face<br /><br /></em><em>And I know I’m weak, I know I’m unworthy<br />To call upon Your name<br />But because of grace, because of Your mercy<br />I stand here unashamed</em><br /><em><br />Here I am at Your feet in my brokenness complete<br /></em><em><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /><br />from the album Beauty in the Broken, track 7, listen at iTunes.<br /><br /></em><span style="float: left;"><table border="0"><tbody><tr><td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></span>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11846811832862921089noreply@blogger.com0