Lemon Detox

image courtesy Google search

Every one had a suggestion to help with the itchy rash that I decided must be Poison Oak.

After trying most of the suggestions, I decided to drop the Benadryl capsules that did not stop the itch and was flooding my system with drugs.

Also stopped was the Benadryl cream, the Hydo-cortisone cream, the Aloe Vera Jell, and I only continued the hot showers each morning using Irish Spring bar soap and rinsing well.

You may or may not be aware that I drink at least two small glasses of home brewed Kombucha tea each day. Actually Kombucha tea is a detox and it prevents my ankles from swelling.

Of course my husband declared that I was probably having a reaction to the tea, my reply was that I was now using a small glass of the tea to dip some cotton in to it and apply it to my face, neck shoulders and wrists.

Of all the things I tried to relieve the itch, the Kombucha tea was the best.

After two weeks the rash had almost cleared up, but now my neck was stiff, my joints ached, and there were tender spots on my head.

The best idea I could come up with was that perhaps there was still poison in my system and it was seeking a way out.

I decided to fast a day or two and try a lemon detox. Actually the detox plan is supposed to be for 7 to 10 days, but I was not ready for that long of a stretch.

First I rolled a fresh lemon on the kitchen counter and cut it in half. Poking a fork into it and turning the fork, the juice poured into my glass.

The recipe called for real Maple syrup and all I had was light pan cake maple flavored syrup, which was NOT acceptable.  But I did have honey.

Using a Tablespoon to remove the seeds from my glass, I poured one Tablespoon of honey into the glass.

Then I estimated 1/10 teaspoon cayenne pepper into the glass. Cayanne pepper helps your circulation.

The recipe called for filtered water, and my refrigerator has a filtered water spout, so I filled the glass and stirred.

Slowly I sipped the cool lemonade. The honey gave me energy and satisfied my hunger.

The plan says 6 to 8 glasses lemonade per day. Probably three glasses that day with water in between, and a cup or two of green non-caffeine tea was less than the detox plan.

The next day I ate lightly and again picked up the lemon detox plan the following day.

My husband encouraged me by saying the five pounds I have lost will probably come back again. :-)

The Plan also suggested that at night to drink one of the laxative teas, which I don’t have.

Instead in the morning I drink a glass of juice with a teaspoon of Nutri Cology Buffered Vitamin C powder. It is Pure, gentle, and Natural and works great!

This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays

Kindergarten Days

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This post is a combination of two short stories that were on my home pages for "Tell Me A Story"

The Tell Me A Story Blog Hop is designed so that you may scroll down at any time, and view older true stories that are posted there (Even if the entries are closed).  Simply grab my button to go direct to the site and enjoy the stories you will discover there.

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Thinking back to my Kindergarten days, I realize now that we were fortunate to have an extraordinary teacher.

Miss Helen Jane was a bubbly person, always smiling, and as she spoke she would look into the eyes of each child.

She stood at the door welcoming each child by calling their name as they entered the room, and at the end of the day she would again stand at the door and plant a kiss on our cheek as we left.

The girls did not mind, but for show, the boys would usually rub off her kiss.

In today’s world those kisses would certainly not be approved by the School board, or the State or the Federal Government. But that was the year 1937 and things were different then.

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In our room there was an old victrola, and as we sat in a circle Miss Helen Jane would play music and shuffle our names from a group of flash cards.

The child, whose name was shown on the card, was asked to skip around the circle and return back to his or her seat.

Our teacher made a game out of us being able to recognize our name.

She also taught us to print our name in big bold letters on lined paper and to recognize numbers from one to ten, to distinguish shapes and colors and to understand that learning was fun.

I remember that our chairs and tables were all painted a lovely hot pink.

There was one chair that was BAD brown. Our teacher called it the “Thinking Chair.” I never had to sit in it, but the idea was; those who misbehaved were to sit and “think” until they were ready to apologize to our teacher.

Actually I don’t remember any child ever having to sit in that bad brown thinking chair. We all wanted to please our teacher and to be good children.

When Kindergarten graduation was over and I entered the first grade room, you can imagine my shock when I discovered that all the chairs and tables were BAD brown – not pretty pink.

What had I done to deserve this?

Isn’t that the truth, Life can’t always be PINK - - like Kindergarten!

This post has been linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

Inky My cat missing a Tail (repost)

Missing a Tail
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“Mama come quick! The mother cat has moved all the babies except one!” was the alarmed cry from one of my children.

We were on a weekend vacation up in the mountains. Excited to explore, my children had discovered a deep hole where a wild mother cat had hidden her kittens. She must have sensed their discovery, so she had moved them to protect her litter from my sweet, curious kids.

But wait! Not all were missing.  Back in the bottom of the hole there she was almost hidden..

There she was so tiny and so black, this little one that was left behind. Her eyes still closed, she was so small, so weak and helpless.

Apparently the mother cat tired after moving so many kittens, or for some reason of her own she did not take this last baby with her. Perhaps it was that the mother cat perceived something wrong with this baby.  

Was something missing?  -  Yes, this kitten was missing her tail.

We took this new kitten home with us and began to feed her with a small doll bottle. As she grew, her eyes finally opened. She couldn’t have been more than two weeks old by then.

She was missing a mother, but I became her ‘Mama’.

In the mornings, she would sit on my fuzzy bedroom slipper as I fixed breakfast for the children. She was black as ink, so we named her ‘Inky.’

In every way but one, Inky was a normal cat. There was one conspicuous difference; she was missing a tail!

The Manx breed of cat is tailless. They are excellent hunters, which we soon discovered. There was nothing weak about this cat!

One of my daughters loved to hold Inky and sing to her, and little Inky would purr back her own song.

In Zephaniah 3:17 (New King James Version) it is written,

“The LORD your God in your midst,

The Mighty One, will save;

He will rejoice over you with gladness,

He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing.”

What a thought! In our weakened state, God loves us and rejoices over us! As I think about it, I am reminded of what Jesus did for us by taking our weakness and causing us to become something lovely and strong. Jesus did not see in us any imperfections that we think we have. He loves us just as we are.

Inky was loved!

My husband made a wooden travel case for her, and she willing used it for her bed. It was her sanctuary.

For nineteen years, Inky lived and traveled with us. From house to house she went as we moved to Oklahoma, and then returned to California.

One sad day, her soft meow let us know that something was wrong. Her eyes spoke to us that she was in pain. A trip to the Veterinarian enlightened us to the fact that her kidneys were failing, and that it was time to let her go. The tears welled up!

It is heartbreaking to lose a pet that has been such a part of the family. Over the years, we have lost many pets and sometimes we say, “Never again.” Then, after time has passed, our hearts begin to soften and are opened once again to welcome a new family member.

As a side note, have you ever wondered if animals will be in Heaven? My sister-in-law always says, “This was a good Christian Cat, so why not?”

The scripture tells us that the Lion will lay down with the Lamb, and to me this is a very good indication that animals will be in heaven. I believe they will be there - - all the pets you and I have loved and lost. Yes, we will see our pets again. I believe that my little Inky will be there in heaven, waiting for me.

This post is linked to Peter Pollocks One Word Carnival

A Personal Pentecost can be Yours!

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Usually at least once a month my formal United Church of Christ allows me to share one of my stories.

Sunday was Pentecost Sunday and I told the story about the staff member at my mother’s care home asking me if my mother spoke Spanish? She continued to explain that each time Sister Bermudez comes to visit, they both pray and it sounds like Spanish.

I told her, Oh, I understand, NO it was not Spanish. That is my mother’s prayer language, because my mother has experienced her own Personal Pentecost.

In the 1960’s there was an additional outpouring of the Holy Spirit among the Episcopal, Presbyterian and Catholics as well as other denominations. Father Dennis Bennett and others were prominent in those days.

During that time, David du Plessis was a guest at our church. He told us that God has NO grandchildren and that each person must have a personal encounter with Jesus to be born again. We cannot inherit salvation from our parents or anyone else. We must have a personal salvation experience.

He went on to explain that even as we are “Saved,” we do receive the Holy Spirit into our heart and he becomes our guide and helper, but there is MORE and it is a Baptism of Fire that endues us with power to fulfill other than the mundane everyday witnessing. We must each one experience A Personal Pentecost which is in additional to receiving Jesus.

Those who experienced the Holy Spirit in the 60’s did not want to be called Pentecostal, because somehow they felt the Pentecostals were too strict, and maybe a little “country,” so they called the new movement “Charismatic.”

Even today you may ask for your Personal Pentecost and you shall receive.

Today being Pentecost Sunday, my story was appropriate for this occasion. I did get several blank looks, but others seemed to understand.

After the service one lady asked me if my mother spoke in tongues, and I replied yes, and I too received my Personal Pentecost when I was twelve years old.

Another lady came to me and told me that she had received her Baptism long ago and now she regularly sings in the Spirit in other tongues in her private prayer time.

The Music director had selected some amazing old hymns for today that were filled with the message of receiving the Holy Spirit, I told him I appreciated his selection of music today, and he encouraged me to keep sharing my stories.

Yes the Holy Spirit is still being outpoured, and for your own Personal Pentecost, you may seek and ask for Jesus to Baptize you with His Holy Spirit, - - and you shall receive.

Linked up today with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday

Life Changes

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Psalms 104:30 You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; And You renew the face of the earth.

Pastor Jerry was ministering on this Pentecost Sunday. I share with you gleanings from his message, “Life Changes, Changes in the Church.”

As an illustration, he held up some pretty wind chimes. Although they were lovely, they were of no use until he turned on a small fan that caused them to make a musical sound.

The Wind of the Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus and His salvation from sin. The gentle breeze of the Holy Spirit brings hope and intercession for us.

Where we are dry and barren, The Holy Spirit sends rain and brings refreshment to our soul.

After the resurrection of Jesus, there was a period of 50 days before the Hebrew celebration of the Harvest. This festival was observed by many nations and they would meet in Jerusalem for the gala event.

On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was outpoured and tongues of fire set on all those who were in the house seeking God.

Some left the upper room and went out into the streets telling of Jesus resurrection.

The crowds spoke out questioning, “What is this that we see and hear that these unlearned men are speaking in our own languages the wonderful works of God?”

Peter began to explain and as the people heard and believed they also were filled with the Holy Spirit. That day there were 3000 souls born into the Kingdom.

Our universe is so large, and with our microscopes and telescopes we are discovering only a partial view of this world. There is a minute invisible world that we cannot see with our naked eye.

We can barely understand all that God has done for us and is still doing in His Church.

The Holy Spirit is the driving force for good, even in the fellowship time and in the crafts that the ladies make, because there is a purpose even in these events.

Pastor mentioned he and his wife attended our local fair, and the rides went up and down, or around and around but actually got no where. He suggested that we do not want to get in a rut always doing something the same way and getting no-where, but we need to be able to move when God opens new doors.

It is time to meditate, and to listen with a renewed vision to an action with power of the Holy Spirit.

Today we are in need of the Spiritual Gifts that are included with the Holy Spirit Baptism of power.

Let us ask and be willing to receive.

This post has been linked with Michelle;s Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday.
 

The Lords Goodness

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Guest post from Day Spring Greetings



The Lord's Goodness Through You

The more tightly we are attached to Jesus,

the more purely His love can pass through us.

And oh, what a love it is!

- Max Lucado

Thanks for letting the Lord's goodness flow through you!

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit. John 15:5

Rag Curls in the First Grade

Hazel's First Grade Photo

My Aunt Carrie had demonstrated to my mother how to use plain old rags to roll my hair at night so that by the next morning I would have gorgeous curls.

Aunt Carrie encouraged Mom to try her new beauty technique on me. Sure enough the next morning there were curls, but fuzzy was more like it.

Perhaps my mother did not know the proper cosmetology brushing techniques, so frizzy it was.

Off I went to school happy with my new hair do, and when the teacher announced that we were going to have our pictures taken - - that was exciting news.

“Line up and we will go one at a time to have our photos taken” were our instructions.

The photographer asked us to stand with our toes at a chalk mark on the floor, and his words were, “Now give us a nice smile.”

Recently I had lost my two front teeth, but I gave him the loveliest grin that I could.

That day as I went home for my lunch I told my mother that we had our pictures taken for our First grade class that morning.

Mom was horrified, and exclaimed, that she wished they would have let her know in advance, and she would not have frizzed my hair.

Because at that age, I was happy go lucky so all the fuss about looks did not bother me in the least.

When the pictures were ready we purchased one that showed my entire class in small squares on an 8 ½ x 11 page. In later years as I viewed them, I had to chuckle a bit.

No doubt my folks were offered a selection of photos with just me, but they declined.

That was the last time my mother beautified me with rag curls.

Her next endeavor was to give me a Toni Home Permanent, but with my fine hair, the frizzy results were the same.

I am reminded that God counts the very hairs on our head. He doesn’t seem to care if our hair is straight, curly or frizzy. He loves us regardless of our outward appearance.

Perhaps that is because He is looking at our heart, and not at our hair.

If you are interested in trying rag curls for a softer look you might enjoy viewing Carli’s blog at: http://www.simplynotable.com/2012/vintage-rag-curls-updated/
Carli’s pattern for rag curls you will discover HERE

This post has been linked with these lovely sites
Joan Davis  Sharing His Beauty
With Laura’s Beholding His Beauty
And with Tell me a True Story.    Do share your true stories there.

We Are in This For Good!

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Our Guest Pastor Jerry was reading from the Message Bible, the book of Acts 1: 9-17; 21-26.  I share some of the gleanings from his message as I took notes.

Acts 1:14 They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also present was Jesus' mother, Mary, and his brothers. (Message Bible)


A large group of believers had just witnessed the final instructions of Jesus and had seen him ascend into heaven. An angel had comforted their fears, and told them to go to Jerusalem and wait for the promise as he had requested of them.

As they congregated in the upper room where they usually met for prayer, a decision was made that they were not returning to fishing, or their previous occupations.

Instead they were going to carry this new message that Jesus is alive, to the world - - for the long haul. There was no turning back.

We are in this for GOOD they all agreed!!

The assembly included many women in the group of about 120 who met in this upper room. 

A resolution was made to select one of their brethren to take the place of Judas. Peter declared, “It must be one who had been a witness of the ministry of Jesus, of the empty tomb and of the ascension into heaven by our Lord.”

The selection was made by drawing lots and Mathias was chosen.  Actually nothing is heard of him again in the Scriptures. They were firm in their decision to go forward, and were in this for good.

The Pilgrims came to America for the greater good. 

The body of Christ with the many denominations, divisions and camps are telling the old Gospel story and God isn’t finished with his church yet.

There is always a new beginning, and our choices reflect that we are committed as we say in the marriage vows declare - - till death do us part.  We are Not turning back - -  We will never give up !!

May You are I declare with them that we are in this for Good.

This post has been Linked up today with Michelle’s
Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday
And with Wendy at: Scripture Sunday

Granola Home Made (Ruth Stanton)

 

image courtesy google search

Usually my mother enjoyed plain quick cooked oats for her breakfast, but there were times she wanted to dress up her oats a bit.

She liked making her own home made granola, and on some occasions she would spoon this granola on her bowl of oats as a topping. In the summer she would enjoy her granola with milk as a cold cereal.

When Mom needed a "pick me up," she would reach for the container in the refrigerator and enjoy a snack. It was healthy and satisfied her hunger pangs. She also found it excellent sprinkled on yogurt any time of day.

GRANOLA



image courtesy google search

 
Mix Together
3 cups quick oats
1/2 cup coconut chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or sliced almonds
1/2 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Mix together
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup olive oil

Add to first mixture and stir well spreading on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake 15 minutes at 325 degrees. Cool and store in a covered container in the refrigerator.

This post is shared at Ann Kroeker’s Food on Fridays

More Than Enough

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This post is linked to Peter Pollock;s One Word Carnival the word is MORE. Click on the words underlined  above to go direct to his site. You will find other interesting articles posted there.

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My God is more than enough! Not “more or less” but MORE than you have now.

At the early age of twelve years old, I discovered that there was a baptism of fire that could and would fill me, and continually be in me and with me. I eagerly requested that Jesus send me His gift and He did.

My prayer life has been More enriched, my speaking has been More anointed and at times my writing has been inspired with MORE than I expected.

Through the years; a good many years, My God has been more than enough for me. He is my supplier, my deliverer, my defender, my shield, my rock and my comforter.

The word is More!   God always has more awaiting you in the Spirit.  Seek and you shall find.

God at all times has more for me and for you!

Most every Christian usually experiences joy and peace when they are born again – but let me tell you there is MORE than the initial salvation occurrence.

There is a baptism of fire. Some call it sanctification, a consecration, or being set apart for the Lord’s service.  It is unique and additional to becoming born again.

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Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”


God offers more for you and if you seek his face and are willing to receive from Him, he will give you More than enough.

Perhaps you will enjoy this song on YouTube, My God is MORE Than Enough.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pvdFkItjsg
P.S. if you see an advertisement click on “skip Ad.”

Teacher’s That Inspire

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The lunch room was buzzing with chatter as I quickly scribbled out descriptive words with the help of my dictionary. My essay needed to be turned in at the next class so I hurried on.

My story described a tall skinny personage with silver gray hair piled on top of her head.  Her haunting eyes were staring, and her spiny thin arms crossed her chest. She stood waiting to snatch anyone who crossed her path that she did not approve of.

I laughed as I discovered more words to scare the pants off most readers.

The bell rang announcing that lunch was over and it was time to run to our next class. It was too late. I was having so much fun writing, that I had been carried away with mirth and now there was no time to change my essay.

There was nothing I could do except turn it in, if I wanted a grade at all, so reluctantly I handed it in with the others.

Class was almost over and we had probably 10 more minutes of time left.

My teacher moved to the front of the room, and announced that there was one essay that she needed to read aloud to the class. She almost giggled as she asked the class to guess who the person was in the anecdote.

Oh no!! She was reading my story, and my face turned crimson red. As she finished, she said, “This story is an example of creative writing, and I just had to read it to you all.”

Then she asked me to stay after class. Was I in trouble? No, she wanted to encourage me to keep writing.

I apologized for making fun of our Principal who stood in our hall between classes to keep order.

My teacher assured me that no apology was in order, and that the story did not name her, but only left it to the readers to discover who it was.

image courtesy photobucket

She encouraged me to continue writing as she emphasized, “I look forward to more stories from you like this one.”

That day I made a decision to keep my dictionary handy, and to also use a Thesaurus which often helps when I need a good word.

Words are powerful, and they can change lives for good or evil. Speeches often will sway the crowd, and lies are many times believed as truth.

It is good to listen with our heart, but to also be equipped with knowledge and wisdom to prevent us from becoming a part of the foolish multitude.

Those who write and speak are obligated to build up and not tear down their audience.  To encourage, challenge and comfort at times, and to always let truth prevail.

As you write or speak, at all times leave your readers or listeners, with a sense of joy that they were glad to come and sit at your feet.

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This post has been linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty
Also linked with Tell Me a True Story
http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/

Dr Jesus Makes House Calls (repost)



Jesus Heals Peter's Mother-In-Law
image courtesy photobucket.

I am thankful for Dr Jesus. The Bible tells us that Jesus went about, doing good, and healing all who were sick and oppressed of the Devil.

Jesus even made a house call at Peter’s home, and healed Peter’s Mother-in-law who was sick with a fever. Then she was able to get up and prepare a nice meal for her guests.

It seems these days that there is a lot of virus and illness going around.  Understand this is not the only reason, but one factor that might continue to cause a person to be sick is unsettled arguments. Also bitterness, resentment, and holding grudges are detrimental to your health!

When I was a little girl, and my brother, and sister, and I would get into "word fights,"my mother would insist that we say, “I’m sorry,” and apologize to each other.

Then she would require the other person to say, “I forgive you.”

Oh how I hated that, because sometimes I was so angry that I did not want to apologize or forgive.

But you know, after doing something many times it becomes easier on the next occasion.

The Bible tells us not to let the sun go down on our wrath, and it is a good idea to get things out of the way quickly, and not allow them to fester.

Let me share a little secret to keep a happy marriage.  The suggestion is for us ladies to learn at times to simply Shut our mouths.

You may laugh at that, but it is true.

Being quiet when you want to reply angrily is difficult; I can certainly tell you that!  However in the long run it will keep peace in your home! The Bible speaks in the book of Proverbs thusly:

It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

So if you sense sickness coming your way, examine your attitudes, and get anything that is old business out of the way.

Then rejoice, sing and praise the lord, for cheerfulness is like medicine from the Lord.

Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart does good like a medicine: but a broken spirit dries the bones.

This post has been linked today

with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday

and with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty

Mothers Were Created by God

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Mothers Were Created by God  (Repost)

Soon I will be sending a wee one to another world,
Who will watch over and care for this tiny life?
Who will teach this one to learn and to love?
To instruct in kindness not in hate and strife!

Who will feed and clothe this child?
Who will kiss away the tears when they fall?
Where will I find such a one, a paradigm?
Who will be there when they weep and call?

Looking high and low no one could be found,
Where is one I can trust – is there no other?
The answer is simple and plain to see,
I will give this child a loving mother!

Then there are other lives, so tiny and some not,
I will search until a home I find - - -
Where shall I place these forgotten babes?
There must be a mother’s heart longing to be kind!

I sought and found some who were barren,
Yet they desired a child to love and hold,
Yes, I will consign this adopted one
In the safe arms of this “mother” to enfold!

Where else may I place a child who needs an abode?
Not all children born into families do fare,
Because of the many realities of life,
Existence is complicated and difficult to bear!

The saying “Life happens,” is true and often - -
Reasons beyond belief send many to despair,
I have found an answer for this child,
In a “good” Foster Home, they will find solace there.

What I seek is a Mother’s heart,
For those who are not a mother in kind, can be,
For according to My word,
The need is great for “Mothers in Israel” you see!

Reach out and love a child with kindness and encouragement!
by Hazel Moon 05/08/2011

This post is Linked with

Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

 Stacy’s Heartprints Hallelujah

 Laura’s Faith Filled Friday

Fried Cabbage

Photo courtesy Christy Jordan’s Southern Plate

My dad liked cabbage, but he had a special way he wanted it prepared.  He always asked my mother to boil our cabbage for a long time and never to remove the lid until it was done. His thoughts were that this method would assist the cabbage to digest more easily.

Cabbage is one of the most reasonably priced vegetables that can readily be purchased for a few cents at your local grocery store. We enjoy it about once a month.

At first when I was the cook, I boiled cabbage just like my mother did. Then my husband and I began to experiment with various cabbage recipes.

At our church ladies meetings we often prepared a lunch with several ladies bringing pot luck. One of the women brought a special dish and she named it; “Fried cabbage.”

My first taste did not reveal that it was indeed cabbage; rather it seemed like a delightful new vegetable. What had she done to achieve this?

Naturally I asked for the recipe and I will share it here with you to enjoy once in a while.

Fried Cabbage

1 small head of cabbage sliced very fine.

8 slices of bacon cut in small pieces and fried until crisp in a large skillet
Remove bacon and add the shredded cabbage into the bacon grease

Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper or Mrs. Dash or a seasoning you prefer.
1 cup of water added to the cabbage.

Cover and simmer slowly just until the cabbage is tender, about 15 minutes.
Remove lid and stir fry until all liquid is gone.

Add the bacon, and serve.

This post has been linked at Ann Kroeker’s Food On Friday

Boarding School

"What am I going to do with you?" My harsh voice struck out to our youngest daughter.

Having changed her classes for her when she claimed she did not like them, now she was failing in all her subjects, and I was at a loss. 

Our older children had all graduated from High School with good grades and I was puzzled as what to do next with our "baby."

It was well into the beginning of her senior year in High School, we needed to do something quick so that she could catch up and graduate.

Our church had just welcomed a special guest missionary speaker who mentioned that their children were living at a boarding school several miles down the coast from us  This Christian school was lodging the children of other missionaries, and also students who needed help scholastically.

Our daughter offered a suggestion, “Why don’t you send me to Watsonville to that Christian school down there?”

I replied, “That might be a good idea, but I don’t know if they will take you since the school year has already begun - - However I will phone them and ask.”

The lady who answered the phone was very positive and she urged me to pack a suitcase and bring our daughter on down.

Arriving after a nice drive along the scenic route, we were given a tour of the campus and the dorms. Each room had two single beds with a bathroom that was connected to an adjoining room.

We signed the paper work and paid for one month and giving Judie a hug, we said our good byes and left. As we drove away we could see her standing there like a lost child.

School went well for her. After the evening meal, each dorm was on "lock up" until the students in that dorm completed their homework assignments. Judie was the last one to finish her homework. “Let us help you” all the girls chimed in, and our daughter agreed.

It did not take long for her to be voted class president and to adjust to the discipline at the school. I believe she benefited from the structure of order and that probably is why she adapted so well to the Air Force which she later joined.

The months quickly went by and when she proudly graduated from High School, it was with honors.

Monte Vista Christian school and their personal attention they offered, gave her the confidence to believe that she could excel.

Today she holds several degrees from college and also a Masters degree.

Something was missing in me to encourage her, but with new surroundings, she discovered hidden abilities within herself.

This post is Linked with Laura’s Faith Filled Friday

And linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty

Also shared at Tell Me a True Story at: http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Please enter your true stories there each week.

Love On the Vine

Fruitful Vine
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John 15: 1-8 is the story of the vine and the importance of the branches being connected to the vine. Jesus said, I am the vine and you are the branches, my desire is that you bear much fruit! 

The branches cannot bear fruit of them-selves, but must stay linked to the vine. For fruit to develop there must be pruning, watering and tending to the vine.

As Jesus ministered to his disciples, they understood about simple things; grapes, vines, sheep and fish.

Our guest Pastor Jerry told a story about The Navigators and Dawson Trotman's early work among sailors that enabled discipleship principles to spread exponentially across the military as the United States entered World War II.

Dawson taught sailor Les Spencer the foundations of Christian growth as they spent many hours together praying, studying the Bible, and memorizing Scripture. When one of Spencer's shipmates asked him the secret of his changed life, Spencer brought the man to Trotman: "Teach him what you taught me," he said.

"You teach him!" Trotman responded. And the 2 Timothy 2:2 vision was strengthened.

Much fruit began to be harvested as each sailor would share with another. Then as they were transferred to other ships, again the fruit began to multiply. The FBI decided to investigate as they suspected this might be a subversive organization. They finally decided that it was not a harmful group, but was doing the men well.

Pastor shared about his personal experience of growing tomatoes.  He gave them too much water and had large beautiful vines but no fruit. The vines must be pruned, cut back, and all the tiny suckers removed in order to get an abundant harvest.  In the same way our Lord must prune us at times, even when it hurts us for him to do so.

Pastor likened our children as vines that we cultivate. They soon develop and grow from the diaper stage and before long they are asking for the car keys. How soon it is that they are graduating from High School, and they believe that they are in control.

All these formative years, we were in control, helping shape their lives, and now it is time to let go and allow them to make their decisions in life. Time goes so fast. We must trust that we have tended our garden well and that these vines of ours will bring forth much good fruit.

In our own lives, when all seems to go haywire, we must trust in the main VINE and keep connected because he is our power source and strength.

Another example was given of a community garden, where all work together to harvest a good crop of fruit (or vegetables.) He likened this to the body of Christ sharing in community with other Christians in local projects to win souls for our Lord.

Pastor concluded his message by reminding us again that Jesus said,
“My desire is that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

Linked up today with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday

My Antique Table

Similar to our table
photo courtesy photobucket.com

This post was inspired by Barbara’s entry to: “Tell me a True Story” blog party. You can read her story about her Dear Table - - by CLICKING HERE.

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My husband often helped John a friend of ours fix up old houses that he would purchase and then rent them out. At times there was furniture left in the houses and John always found good use for them.

One day instead of paying my husband - - our friend brought us a large dining room table with matching chairs. He had noticed that we were using a picnic table with benches in our dining room.

photo courtesy photobucket.com

Honestly I hated that table because it was big and old-fashioned.

Actually, it was a great table, and we could pull out the extensions and serve a crowd which we did many times.

One day we had a visit from two of our aunts and both were delighted in my table and Geneva said, “I will trade you my new maple set for this one.” Suddenly both Aunts were arguing over which one would get my table.

“Why would you want it?” I asked. They went on and on about its beauty and the shine of the cherry wood, and its elegance and how it would hold a large family banquet and how this table was a true find.

I took a new look at my antique table, and decided maybe it was beautiful after all.  I told my aunts "I think I will just keep it but thanks for your kind offers."

We continued to use our wonderful table for many years, and then when we moved to the Oak woods it seemed too large for our mobile home.

Our children had each purchased new dinning room sets, so I asked our foster daughter Nancy if she would like to have my table. “Oh yes,” she replied, and although they now have an empty nest, there are times when her five children and their families still gather around that lovely table.

We recently visited there, and one of our grand-daughters lovingly smoothed her hand over the still gorgeous wood.

I wondered if she was claiming it - - as the next in line to receive the antique table.

This post is shared at: Stacy’s Heartprints Hallelujah
Also Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

Penny Candy

image courtesy photobucket.com

With no stroller, or baby buggy, my mother often carried my baby sister, while my 18 month old brother held my hand as we walked to our corner store for a few small items.

One day, the baby was asleep and my mother needed a loaf of bread. She explained to me how I should walk to the store, ask for a loaf of brown bread and quickly return home.

Taking the dime from her, I felt proud of the responsibility given to me to purchase some bread. So what if I was only three years old! I was the oldest child, and a big girl.

At the store, I gave the man my order and held out my ten cents. “You have two pennies change coming back, so would you like to select some penny candy,” he asked me.

He stood in back of the candy display and my little eyes widened. The candy sticks looked good and so did the suckers. It was difficult to decide which would be the best choice.

Taking a long time to make up my mind, he offered some suggestions and I told him, “Yes please.”

Hurrying home with my loaf of bread and my small sack with the precious candy, I happily showed mother my purchases.

Undaunted she did not hesitate, because those two pennies were needed for other things, and certainly not for candy.

Quietly she asked me, “Just exactly what did I send you to the store to buy?” I replied, “A loaf of bread.”

Her words rang out soft but clear, “And did I tell you to purchase anything else?”

By now I was crying, but she wiped away my tears and told me. “We need to correct this now so that it will never happen again.”

Rehearsing what I was supposed to tell the store man, I returned to the store holding my small bag of penny candy. Fortunately I had not eaten any of my tempting stash.

As I handed him the sack of candy, through tears I told the store man, “My mama said, I was only supposed to buy the bread, so please give me my money back.”

He did return my two cents and again I was proud to return home – mission accomplished.

A couple of years later our circumstances changed and there were times when we could afford the luxury of some penny candy.

However I am thankful for mother teaching me this life’s lesson; how to stand up for myself and ask for the correct change, or return an item that is not right.

It is good to stand firm and not be a push over - - even if it is about penny candy.

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This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays
Also Linked with Laura’s Faith Filled Friday

And you will find it again on Tuesday at:
Tell me a True Story at http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/

Moving on Up Repost

image courtesy photobucket.com

It wasn’t much, but it was to be our new home!!

“Yes, we will take it, and it will do fine!” My soon-to-be husband handed the landlady $10 for the first week’s rent.

This tiny one-room, embracing a wall-bed, a small kitchen and shared bath was to be our new home for the next few months. I was so excited then, but thinking back now it makes me chuckle.

I remember our next apartment seemed like a mansion to me! Two flights of stairs leading to a place to call home. Now we had our own private bathroom, a large living room, a separate bedroom and a small kitchen.

This apartment had everything! It even included a laundry room in the basement with a coin-operated wringer washing machine!

Convenience was everywhere! To dry our clothes all we had to do was step outside the washroom door, hang them on the clotheslines, and the wind would whip them dry! Yes, we were moving on up.

Since that time, we have lived in larger grander apartments and in luxurious houses.  More humble abodes have also included a camper trailer and mobile homes.  No matter where I found myself I was happy in every one of those places. It was not because of a fine residence, but because I chose to be happy.

Living in a million dollar house does not bring you happiness.  Happiness is a learned choice. Being happy, regardless of your situation is absolutely and undeniably a decision.

Learning to hold our belongings with a hand that is open not clutching or grasping brings peace and builds our faith in the Lord. Hold lightly the things that are seen. It is those things that are not seen that are the most valuable!

In the book of Revelation is says; “Because you say, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and don’t know that you are wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:.”

One day, we will leave our homes, beautiful or wretched as they may be, and we will be called to Move on up to a higher place to live.

Jesus said, “I go to prepare a place for you and where I am there you will be also.”

Isn’t that great? No matter what your present living quarters are like now, in the near future we will be “Moving on UP” to a better place that God is building for us!

This post is linked with the One Word Carnival, The word is MUCH
Also linked with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

May Pole Dance

Early in my grammar school days, probably in the 4th grade, our teacher followed the holidays and tried to instill in us times for celebration. The April rains were indeed producing May flowers, and as the calendar turned from April to May first, it was time for us to learn about the traditions of “May Day.”

Without our knowledge, our teacher had asked one of our janitors to attach colored crape paper streamers to the top of one of the volley ball posts and tape it solidly to keep it in place.

While we were still in our class room, she gave us a short history of the Celebration of Summer approaching and about the May Pole dance that other nations celebrate at this season.

Then she lined us up two by two and we marched out to the play ground and over to the pole. Our teacher had instructed each boy to hold a ribbon and stand in place. The girls on either side were to weave in and out as they held one of the other colored streamers.

With her harmonica our teacher hummed a key and we began to sing one of our songs and intertwine until the pole was beautifully decorated. Then we reversed and undid our lovely patterned pole.

That was my first and last May Pole dance, but it was a memory that appears at the beginning of every month of May.

I wouldn’t doubt it but that the other classes in our school were happy to use our May Pole and do their own version of the May Pole Dance.

You may enjoy this rendition of a May Pole dance performed by school children in England. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYhAFHaYp0M&feature=related

Fourth graders dance here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtT21X4gKsM

High Schoolers perform in the school gym; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vDDnmS5ncc&feature=related

This post has been shared at "Play Dates with God" at"
http://www.lauraboggess.com/2012/04/playdates-with-god-mystery.html

and with Friends Day Wednesday:
 http://www.themamazone.com/2012/05/friends-day-wednesday-52.html