Tuesday, September 29, 2009

I heart giveways!

Lila Tueller is an amazing fabric/pattern designer...she is giving away a Jelly Roll or Cake Layer of NEW fabric "Eden" and a pattern! Check it out HERE - doesn't a jelly roll or cake layer sound delicious?! Even if it is fabric...my waistline will thank me!

TasteBook

So I am a recipe hoarder/freak! I own so many cookbooks, so many that I can't even count that high...haha! Literally half of the guest bedroom closet is cookbooks. And I also have a ton of cooking magazines and recipes I have printed from via internet or just jotted down quickly by someone I knew, etc. Recently, I've been trying to come up with a way to keep them better organized - yes, I lack organization skills to say the least. I know where I put things but heaven forbid someone else try to rummage through my recipe closet - that would just be simply dangerous! Just ask AB :) Well, my friend Sara posted on Facebook this morning that she was creating a recipe book...so Sara (wonderful friend you are!) introduced me to TasteBook. And I am hooked! As if I need something else to take up my time right now...but let me say that this is a brilliant idea! You can search recipes (through some of the best recipe sites out there), you can add your own, and then you can print or have them print/make you your OWN recipe book! It even says "the best place to search and organize your recipes" and you can even ADD your own personal photos!!!! You can even add recipes later or as you go...forgot one, add it in! I can not wait to create my own TasteBook...these would also make wonderful gifts to family members or friends. All those cherished family recipes, make a book so they are never lost. Make your grandchildren, nieces or nephews cookbooks...the possibilities are endless. I am so very excited and just had to share!

Monday, September 28, 2009

Southwestern Chicken Roll-Ups


I made this for dinner tonight...super easy, fast, & delicious! It is also figure-friendly, always a plus! This recipe is actually from Cooking Light but I did change it up a bit. It took me roughly 8-10 minutes to prepare then it was ready for the oven. If you have never used milanesa, it is great! So much less fuss than actually boneless, skinless chicken breast and cheaper! That is all I buy now instead of regular chicken breast that you have to pound down or butterfly. After working at Sanderson Farms for two years, the less I have to touch chicken - the happier I am! I always keep regular breadcrumbs on hand. Tonight, I added black pepper and Mrs. Dash Southwest Chiptole seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra seasoning. Also, I did not measure out the cream cheese, salsa, etc...I just added each on top (eye-balling what I thought looked good) and rolled them up.


Ingredients:
1 pkg thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (known as milanesa) - 4 or 5 pieces normally come in a package
OR boneless, skinless chicken breast (pounded down to 1/4 inch thick)

6 tablespoons (3oz or more) 1/3 less-fat cream cheese

6 tablespoons salsa of your choice

6 tablespoons seasoned breadcrumbs (regular or Italian)

Pickled Jalapenos - optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.


If not using the thin sliced chicken breast,
then place each chicken breast half between 2 sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap; pound to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Top each breast half with 1 to 2 tablespoon cream cheese, 1 to 2 tablespoon salsa, and a few jalapenos.
Roll up jelly-roll fashion, beginning at narrow end.

Dredge chicken rolls in breadcrumbs. Place rolls, seam sides down, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; lightly coat rolls with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is done.
I made 4 chicken roll-ups with this tonight.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 257 (20% from fat)
Fat: 5.8g
Protein: 41.7g
Carbohydrate: 6.9g
Fiber: 0.3g
Cholesterol: 109mg
Iron: 1.6mg
Sodium: 385mg
Calcium: 40mg

Thursday, September 24, 2009

The Un-imaginable...

While I can not even imagine the heartache and the pain these families feel and while I do not personally do not know either family, it still breaks my heart to hear their stories. I ran across The Sullivan's Blog Monday or Tuesday night...and since then I've seen it mentioned 3 other times from various places & blogs. I am not really sure why...but I think it is something that needs to be shared. When something like this happens - like the unimaginable all I can think is that it is our duty to pull together and lift up one another in prayer. Please read this incredible story of a inspiring FAITH...I think we can all learn something from Sara Sullivan.

The Sullivans


There is also another family who I would like you to pray for. There is now a family with a newborn and 4 older children who have lost their mother and a husband grieving the loss of his wife. It is so hard to wrap your head around God's plan...but I guess it's not our job to understand His plan.

The Fowler Family

I know both of these families need your prayers more than ever! Not to damper your mood even more but lately it seems like my life has been surrounded by death. Two days ago the elderly man that lives downstairs from us, who walks his dog everyday, is always outside cleaning his patio, etc...passed away and for some reason it has really been bothering me. This morning I woke up at 10 til 6 wide awake, thinking about this man who I barely even knew (other than the occasional hello, how are you?). I even made a comment to AB, I'm really worried and sad about our neighbor. It was about a quarter to 4 Tuesday afternoon when I looked out the patio door and saw not one but two SAPD cars - I thought that's strange so I walked outside and there was 3 police cars and they were at the door of the apartment downstairs. I went to the grocery store and came back (30 mins later) and they were still here and now there was a SAPD truck here with a camper on it and EMS. I continued to look out the blinds occasionally and around 5pm, the medical examiner pulled up, got out of her car w/ a camera and a guy took several white folded blankets/sheets out of the back. My heart then fall into my stomach...I called AB at work and he said go ask if everything is okay. So I did and the look on the police officers face said it all. They did say it is not a safety issue or concern for the residents but that considering the circumstances things are the best they could be. Finally, at 6pm the officers locked up the apartment and left. I am assuming the man lived alone. We have never seen anyone else in or out of the apartment. My heart just aches for his dog. He walked that dog everyday and you could tell they were the best of friends! And for the man himself. I have yet to see anyone at the apartment since then...until now, looks like some kind of cleaning person and I'm not talking about Merry Maids. A guy in a white pick-up with gloves, cleaners, trash bags, etc. It's like I'm watching a scene from CSI or Law or Order...only it's real! Just makes me wonder if there was anything I could have done to help him...I guess it's more of the unknown that makes me uneasy. And the fact that there has been so much death around me lately. But it really makes me stop and think about my life and the life that I lead and how maybe I should step out of my comfort zone a little more because you never know how might need your help.

On a lighter note, now that I've depressed you all...last night was my 3rd week of women's bible study at Oak Hills. It was so uplifting! Funny because I really did NOT want to go and almost acted like I forgot but conviction set it and I said okay, I will go! I definitely want to share with you because it was a very powerful message BUT I have LOTS of sewing to do in order to get Honey B. Boutique up and running! And I'm sure you other things you need to do too - other than read my blog. Ha! Also more on Honey B. Boutique to come...

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

All I Can Say

For all of you in need of REST...this song/post is for you. There are times we are so tired or so busy, we get lost in the fact that Jesus is here and with us. This song is so perfect for us when we feel like we have nothing or what we do have to offer Him is not much but the truth is we don't need to offer Him anything other than ourselves. I hope this song...restores your hope and lets you rest at the feet of Jesus. And just know this...you are NOT alone! I am posting 2 different music videos of this song. I hope you can find rest in Him and not in the things of this world. Share this with someone - never know who might need rest!

"All I Can Say" by The David Crowder Band




Lord I'm tired
So tired from walking
And Lord I'm so alone
And Lord the dark
Is creeping in
Creeping up
To swallow me
I think I'll stop
Rest here a while

And didn't You see me cry'n?
And didn't You hear me call Your name?
Wasn't it You I gave my heart to?
I wish You'd remember
Where you sat it down

Chorus:
And this is all that I can say right now
I know it's not much
And this is all that I can give
yeah that's my everything

Bridge:
I didn't notice You were standing here
I didn't know that
That was You holding me
I didn't notice You were cry'n too
I didn't know that
That was You washing my feet

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Friends, Fun & Ribs

Is that not the cutest lil' face...Miss Rylie Grace!
my boys for the weekend...someone has to keep them in line
Friday night at our house
Al enjoying the coconut buttermilk pie I made, mmm taste so good!
Is that not the biggest rib you have ever seen?

So I told you all I was going to College Station like weekend, well the real story is we went to Caldwell not College Station. While Caldwell is very close to College Station and while we had an amazing time in Caldwell, I was so sad not to at least see the beautiful sights of College Station. But that is okay because the reason for our trip was Britt's Surprise Birthday Party. Brooke planned a wonderfully, fun birthday party and Britt WAS surprised! Overall, I do believe the weekend and party was a success!

Al leaned down to get something and popped the lens out of Allen's Oakley's right after I said "Babe, you've had those Oakley's for awhile now - I'm so proud of you!" Haha, very funny moment on the way to Caldwell!

Saturday morning, we left San Antonio at 9am and headed to Caldwell. On our way, we stopped at McDonald's so I could get sugar-free vanilla iced coffee (yum!) and then made a stop at Bill Miller's BBQ for breakfast tacos (also delicious!). When arrived to The Lloyd's right around noon. The boys headed to the golf course and Brooke and I played dress up with Miss Rylie. I made a few outfits for Rylie to promote Honey B. Boutique and because she is an official model for Honey B. Boutique. After playing dress up, Brooke and I rushed around town getting last minute things ready for the party. Around 3:30 the boys arrived back at the house, and we (AB, Al, and me) said we were off & headed to the football game. Britt & Brooke were headed to her mom's to drop off Rylie's diaper bag and then headed out of town for the night...or so Britt thought! All of this was just a ploy to throw Britt off...well looks like we did a good job because when he got to Brooke's mom and we all shouted "surprise!" he was surprised! We had hamburgers, the boys watched football, while all the ladies chatted. It was a great night! And to top it off, the Aggies won! Whoop! I hope we can keep up this winning streak :)

SURPRISE!

the boys sittin' around watching football after a hard day on the golf course

Rylie in the pillowcase dress I made for her

with the flower head-band I made, soon to be on Honey B. Boutique

Sunday morning, Al had to catch his flight back to Amarillo at 1:25pm so we headed back to San Antonio around 9:30am. On the way back, we decided to take a small detour to Lockhart - BBQ Capital of Texas. There are several BBQ choices in this small town - 2 most popular choices are Kreuz and Black's. We chose Black's and wow! The boys wanted their massive beef ribs...2lb ribs!!! They were HUGE! 4lbs of meat = $40 - no I am not kidding! I offered to drive the boys back the rest of the way so they could enjoy their massive dinosaur bone! Ha! Al made his flight on time...Allen and I came home and napped the rest of the day.

Al ready for his rib fest!

That's just what my 10lb baby needs...a rib bigger than him!

It was such a great weekend! I don't think AB has had that much fun in a long time and it was way over due. AB, Al, and Britt have been friends now for 10 years and it was so great to see them just hang out, just like ol' times only our bed time now is several hours earlier. Ha! At 11pm, we all were ready for bed! It was a wonderful weekend with great friends and lots & lots of food - way too much food!

Gig 'em Aggies!

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Classic Buttermilk Pie


This is a classic recipe to good ol' fashioned buttermilk pie. I was super excited to use my new KitchenAid mixer for the first time last Friday! If you have never had buttermilk pie, oh it is heavenly! It is very similar to a Chess Pie and you do not even taste the buttermilk - so don't let the buttermilk part turn you away. I love this recipe because it is so versatile and you can add in fun stuff like sweetened flake coconut, chocolate chips, blueberries, raspberries, pretty much anything you can think of that will make this pie even more delicious. I love a good plain 'ol buttermilk pie right out of the oven...but I also love coconut buttermilk pie, which is what I made over the weekend. I do believe it was a hit! Both pies were gone by Saturday night. I hope you get a chance to make this simply delicious pie. While I love to bake, I did not make my own pie crust this time - yes I'll admit I used store bought pie shells (the ones you can find in the freezer section)...makes the whole pie-making process way less complicated.

Buttermilk Pie

1/2 cup butter, room temperature (one stick)
2 cups sugar
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla
1 package of unbaked pie shells (9 in) or make your own pie crust
1 heaping cup of sweetened, flaked coconut (optional)

Preheat oven to 450*. Cream butter and sugar together. Mix in flour. Add one egg at a time, blending well after each egg. Add in buttermilk and vanilla until thoroughly mixed. Stir in coconut or whatever else you want OR omit coconut for a classic buttermilk pie. By adding the coconut, it makes 2 pies. Without coconut, will probably make only one pie. Bake pie for 5 minutes at 450* then bring temp down to 350* and bake for an additional 25 minutes (until top is a nice, brown color and center is cooked all the way through - I use the toothpick method). Let cool on racks, may serve when slightly cooled or
serve at room temperature. Refrigerate remaining pie.

Right out of the oven

So heavenly...sweet & delicious!

Friday, September 18, 2009

Love at First Sight!


Exciting times at our house...yesterday the UPS man delivered my ice blue KitchenAid mixer! And it WAS love at first sight! She is just beautiful!!! And SILLY AB asked me, "so what cabinet is she going in?!" I think he got the point by the look on my face! She will be displayed on the counter for all to see! Also, I'm not going to break my back, getting her out of the cabinet every time I want to "mix something up!" I do hope one day when we build a house, I'll have an appliance garage but for now, she'll be set on the counter. I can't wait to use her & bake something yummy, I actually think I'll use her today when I make my buttermilk pies - I do believe she needs a name...any ideas?!


Ohhhh, la, la...isn't she beautiful?!

We have a busy day & weekend planned. AB's friend Al (aka Big Al) is flying in today so I'm busy getting our house ready for him, cleaning, doing laundry, baking pies (my famous buttermilk pies, I'll be sure & post the recipe), doing some sewing, and then packing. Tomorrow we are headed to home sweet home, College Station!! I can't wait! I hope we get to eat at Wings n More!!! We will be staying with our wonderful friends - Britt, Brooke, & Rylie! I can't wait to see baby Rylie, hold her & kiss her! She is so incredibly cute & growing so fast! Don't worry I'll post pics of our trip as soon as we return.
My dad, mom, 2 brothers, and aunt are headed to the beautiful Colorado mountains this Saturday for their big elk hunt trip. Please pray for their safety while on this trip & that they come home with a prize, a big elk! They will be "roughin' it" staying in tents in the mountains, taking pack-out horses into the mountains to hunt, and my mom & aunt are the cooks. They are VERY excited! I hope they have an awesome trip but pray for their safety! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

Thursday, September 17, 2009

It's hard to surrender to what I can't see...

Allen and I were talking today during lunch about life and the things going on right now in our lives...while Allen has a wonderful job, work has slowed down tremendously and while we know God knows the desires of our heart - we also want to be prepared for the worst (like if they decide to cut his hours or the dreadful words "be laid-off"). Allen was the last person to be hired and we all know what that means...last to be hired, first to go! All we can do at this point is pray, believe, and trust! All such very SIMPLE things, right? Ha! One those easier said than done kind of deals. And then instantly I said to Allen...it's hard to surrender to what I can't see but that's okay because I'm giving in to something heavenly - then I thought wait, that is a song & wow it totally corresponds to what I posted earlier this morning. Coincidence again??? I told Allen I need to put that on my blog & his reply...addendum! I love him!! There is NO talk in the office of Allen being laid off but please pray for him/us - we are hopeful for more work & soon!

So I thought I would share this amazing song with you "Whatever You're Doing"
by Sanctus Real.



"Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something Heavenly"

Take Up the Easy Yoke

I mentioned in a previous post that I am reading the Joyce Meyer book - "Enjoying Where You Are On the Way to Where You Are Going." I also read a nightly (or I at least try, just being realistic) devotional by Joyce Meyer called "Ending Your Day Right" which was given to me by my mother several years ago. Tuesday night, I tucked myself in bed read my nightly devotional then began reading my other Joyce Meyer book.

I opened my devotional to September 15 and the headline reads "Take Up the Easy Yoke" and the scripture reads: "Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls." Matthew 11:29

In the "Enjoying Where You Are...", I am still on the subject of simplicity - this particular topic was "The Simple Approach" and essentially Joyce discusses how Jesus is not controlled by circumstances and by the demands of other people, but instead He takes the simple approach. As I am reading, the scripture Joyce uses in this lesson is also Matthew 11:28-30 - I sat up and said WOW!!!! Coincidence?? Allen looked at me and said what? Ha! I am so amazed how God is showing His sweet, sweet face to me & clearly, without doubt!

Joyce uses Jesus' words as recorded in Matthew 11:28-30 (Amplified Bible)

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]

29Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.

30For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good--not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

In verse 29, He says "learn of Me" as in learn how I do things. He says "for I am gentle, humble in heart" and how often are we "gentle or humble in heart" when it comes to something we want, hoped for, or prayed for. In our society, it seems to be okay when we want something in life, to get it no matter what the cost or consequences (and I'm not talking about just monetary). We seek OUR will but not HIS will and then soon realize we have missed out on something.

In the last few weeks, I could have easily decided to use my sorrow as a tool to help me or as a crutch. While it is so easy to dwell on our problems or to rationalize them, what if we took the simple approach - Jesus' approach? Being able to completely surrender my will as been no easy task but it as been one of the most rewarding. It also has made me seek His will rather than my own, which His will is why we are here in the first place. I believe the trials we face are not because of anything we have done wrong (while we often think so) but simply because God is a merciful and sovereign God - He gives and He takes. Trials & sorrow also allows us to put things in perceptive - what really is most important to us?

This particular verse spoke to me in so many ways! And is still speaking to me. What an amazing God we serve...He tells us to allow Him to do the work and He wants us to have rested souls. After all, He did fight the good fight for His. There are SO many things I have learned and am learning through the trials and sorrow I have dealt with over the past few months. I am almost giddy inside because I am so thankful that God is using those sorrows to draw me closer to Him. While I do not know lots of things in this life/world, I do know that the ONE thing I can hold on too and the ONE thing I know that is never-changing and that is my Savior, Jesus! And because of that I know...I can carry on...I do not have to be tired, sad, depressed, or worried for I know Jesus has taken care of ALL of those things for me! I encourage you to let Him take up your heavy-laden and overburdened heart, seek His ways and how He would handle your situation or circumstances - allow Him to do the work He has already done for you so many years ago when He died on the cross for YOU! His ways and thoughts are so much greater than ours and we must be willing to surrender ourselves to Him so we can discover His will for our lives - not our own.

"Lord, I give You my heart, I give You my soul, I live for You alone
Every Breath I take, Every moment I'm awake
Lord, have Your way in me"

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Seafood Sensation

This happens to be one of Allens' favorite lunch request. You used to be able to get a "Seafood Sensation" sandwich at Subway - not sure when they decided to do away with it & I think it still might be available in certain locations. Allen was definitely a fan. He used to tell me about how gooood the seafood sensation sandwich at Subway was - well I'm a turkey kind of gal & not one to venture out much so I can't say that I've ever had it. But I thought we'll surely it can't be that hard to make...well I searched a few crab recipes, made it & it was a hit! Allen request it almost weekly for lunch. It's super easy & delicious IF you like imitation crab & mayo...if not well then you'll probably just want to skip this post/recipe. This recipe isn't exact you can add/change according to your taste. I never measure; just keep adding until it taste delicious to your liking.

Seafood Sensation

6 oz imitation crab - chunk or flake style (12 oz
package can be found near the seafood section)
1/2 half cup to 1 cup mayonnaise of your choice (I use Hellmann's Light)

1-2 chopped green onions
1 tablespoon sugar
Nature's Seasoning to taste (love this stuff & has NO MSG)
Dill (fresh or dried) to taste
Black pepper to taste

I normally rough chop the crab then add remaining ingredients. I add mayo until I get the consistency I like (similarly to tuna fish). Seasonings - I add a few "shakes" of each. Serve on whatever bread you like or with crackers. Makes 2 servings or sandwiches.

Super easy & even better the next day!

The remaining crab can be frozen for the next time you want to make Seafood Sensation or use the entire 12 oz if you wish to make more - increase other ingredients as needed. I do not add salt because Nature's Seasoning has salt in it. If you have never used Nature's Seasoning, it's a great all purpose seasoning for chicken, fish, and vegetables. I use it in my tuna fish as well. You could also add red onion to this recipe if you like. Add or mix in whatever you like!

Monday, September 14, 2009

This is My Desire

This is my desire, to honour You
Lord with all my heart I worship You
all I have within me
I give You praise
all that I adore is in You

Chorus:

Lord I give You my heart
I give You my soul
I live for You alone
Every breath that I take
Every moment I'm awake
Lord have Your way in me

This is my desire, to honour You
Lord with all my heart I worship You
all I have within me
I give You praise
all that I adore is in You

Song by Hillsong - click here to listen to song on YouTube
(open link in new window)

I highlighted the chorus in red because it will now my daily prayer each morning - I was listening to Hillsong this morning & for some reason those words made me think - have I given ALL of me to Him? And do I give ALL of me to Him everyday? It's so easy to get caught up in the crazy and busy-ness of this world...we miss out on just loving & praising Him!

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Amazing! Red Velvet Cupcakes


Saturday I made these simply, amazing red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing (essentially heaven on earth in my book, it's about the little things in life)...I mean after all how could I go wrong with a recipe from Paula Deen, my hero! I mean the MORE butter, the BETTER!! Until you decide to weigh yourself...haha! But they ARE heavenly and I think a must-make for your next occasion, party, or even just because you can :)

You can find the recipe HERE or posted below.

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:
  • 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

For the cupcakes:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 (12-cup) muffin pans with cupcake papers. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a large bowl gently beat together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla with a handheld electric mixer. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet and mix until smooth and thoroughly combined.

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake tins about 2/3 filled. Bake in oven for about 20 to 22 minutes, turning the pans once, half way through. Test the cupcakes with a toothpick for doneness. Remove from oven and cool completely before frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 pound cream cheese, softened
2 sticks butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
Chopped pecans and fresh raspberries or strawberries, for garnish

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla together until smooth. Add the sugar and on low speed, beat until incorporated. Increase the speed to high and mix until very light and fluffy.

Cook's Note: Frost the cupcakes with a butter knife or pipe it on with a big star tip. Garnish with chopped pecans and a fresh raspberry or strawberry.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ease of Preparation: Easy
Yield: 24 cupcakes


Recipe courtesy of Paula Deen




I did DECREASE the powder sugar in the frosting by ONE cup. I used 3 cups instead of the 4 as directed on recipe - only because I was tired of sifting & I was on a time crunch, BUT the frosting still turned out wonderfully! I love this recipe because it calls for all-purpose flour which I always have on hand, instead of cake flour like most red velvet recipes. Allen was my decorator! He piped on the icing with a Wilton bag & a star tip then I sprinkled white sugar crystals on top. He did such a good job (I asked him if he had ever done that before because he looked like a pro) ha! Just so happened I had every thing needed to make this recipe on hand yesterday so I decided why not...bake cupcakes while watching college football & all is well at The Beyer House! I'd love to hear if you try this recipe...I promise you won't be disappointed!


Hope everyone has an awesome week!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Oh Joyce...

Sorry this is kind of long...but I think worth the read!

Joyce Meyer definitely tells it like it is...which is good, especially for someone that needs to hear THE truth! I am currently reading on her books (actually I've been reading & studying it off & on over the last few months) and it has some profound messages in it. The book I am reading is "Enjoying Where You Are On The Way To Where You Are Going" - longest title ever! Allen was super sweet and took me to the Joyce Meyer conference here in SA earlier this summer. After we left, we weren't ready to go back to the wonderful trailer so we decided to go have a coffee & browse Borders Bookstore where I then purchased this particular book. I am not an avid reader by any means...I normally lose interest rather quickly BUT I knew I need help in the area of just being able to enjoy life NOW at this present moment. Allen or my mom will tell you how I'm always searching for "what's next?" instead of living for today. When I was in college, I was constantly thinking of life AFTER college, when I was engaged, I was thinking of married life, and so on...and I'm really not sure why just something I do and have done for years! But if definitely is something that brothers me and I wish I didn't do...essentially a constant struggle which I know is not the way God intended me to live my life.



These past few months have been extremely difficult for me for many different reasons. But like I said in a previous post or posts actually - I mentioned how I felt God was dealing with me in the area of PATIENCE! While I'm going through trials in my life, (like most I'm sure) I begin praying and waiting for an answer - meanwhile during that time, I feel like I quit living life or more like I'm so focused on what is to come instead of what is going on at that present moment. While tomorrow has no guarantees, why should I be so concered with it? Well...it's something I have always done - bad habits are hard to break! But during this times (trials) Jesus is simply asking us to draw close to Him & cling to what we do know! Which is amazing love for us! His amazing grace! And His mercy!

Last night I attended my first Women's Bible Study here in SA - a friend I haven't seen since A&M (fall of 2005) met me and it was wonderful to see her & visit with her. We were doing some catching up & I was explaining to her all the things I've been going through lately and I told her I felt like "I was waving in the wind...or drifting a sea, waiting for something or an answer from God about what it is He wants me to do or be in life"

While doing a little devotional before bed, I was reading in Joyce Meyer's book about "Simplicity" and how life can be and is as complicated or simplified as we want it to be. Joyce states "when we are complicated inside, then everything else in life seems that way to us." Joyce also gives the Webster definition of the words: complicate and simple. Complicate is another word for "bewildered" and "when I mix doubt and unbelief with belief, I feel bewildered, not knowing what to do, but busily trying to figure it out." Joyce then talks about how we seem to think our problems are too much and wonder why our prayers are not heard or being answered. Wow, this was so profound to me and my current situation...but the great new is this...James 1:6-8 which Joyce uses as an example of the double-minded (complicated, bewildered) man who is unstable in all his ways & thinks he shall not receive anything from the Lord - including wisdom & guidance.

James 1:2-8 NKJV
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in doubts like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from that Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."

And this is when I realize what an amazing and wonderful God we serve! While I have been busily trying to figure it out "feeling as I was waving in the wind, drifting a sea" and doubting His will for me - God was only making me perfect & complete, lacking nothing. Simply amazing! Thank you Jesus for loving me even when I "wave in the wind, or drift a sea" and letting love & grace be enough.

Among The Thirsty

Today after my interview, it was pouring down rain and a lot of the roads were flooded (but that's okay because we are so thankful for the rain!!!) so I pulled into a Whataburger to get a Diet Dr. Pepper and happened to hear this song "I'd Need A Savior" on the radio. I listen to K-Love (the Christian radio station) on a daily basis but had never heard this particular song - apparently Among The Thirsty is a relative new band but I must say I like already...I turned it up & listened while I waited for the rain to let up before getting back on the freeway - safety first! I thought it was an amazing song and too good not to share with you and the world. Hopefully, it will bless you! (like it did me) God has a way of speaking to us in many ways and I believe music is just one of them. Enough babbling...I posted the lyrics below & I hope you enjoy this song as much as I did. Hope you have a blessed weekend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jj0vdV-Q2I0




How many names can I use to explain the love of my Jesus,
the life that he gave and so many times will I praise you today.
I lift up my life ‘cause you’re always the same
And my offering to you I bring

Chorus:
Your name is Jesus. Your name is Jesus.
You’re the Wonderful, Counselor, my Friend.
You’re what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross you knew
I’d need a Savior.

How many songs can I sing to proclaim your wondrous love and beauty so great?
What would I say if you brought down the rain and everyday
I walk through the pain my heart would still say…

You’re what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross you knew
I’d need a Savior.
I’d need a Savior
I need you, Savior

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Crossroads??

Maybe I'm not at a crossroads but I am definitely at a "something" in my life & seeking answers anyway I can. More like what is it I am SUPPOSED to be doing with my life?! Am I supposed to be a teacher and if I am, why is finding a job been so hard...every day, all day - my head is filled with these kind of questions & while I pray about them I still feel at a lost. I realize there is a season for all things but this season seems to be lasting longer than I would like - I've been praying for some kind of break-through or for a job or answers for months it seems like & I'm STILL at a lost. Maybe I'm praying & hoping for the wrong things...I don't know! I know God is using this time to prepare for what is next...and working the wonderful virtue into my life, patience.

I am trying not to give up on my goal & dream of being a teacher but maybe I'm missing out on something I can't see for whatever reason?!?! Honestly, I have NO clue at this point...all I can do is continue to pray & believe God has something in store for me far more than I could ever imagine. I am starting a Women's Bible Study tomorrow at Oak Hills Church (Max Lucados' church) and I am VERY excited! I am hoping to meet some wonderful new ladies & excited about all the wonderful things I will learn.

Clinging to this scripture & believing God will MOVE the mountains in my life! "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:22-24

Lord hear my prayers!

Thank you for your thoughts (cards & notes) & prayers over these last few weeks!

Thursday, September 3, 2009

House update...


Ask & you shall receive (Laura Duck)...here is our new fancy washer & dryer (yeah the ones that play a soft melody when the load is done) - makes doing laundry so much more pleasant. Notice the rugs...the laundry room is strictly MY room & the only room I got away with putting PINK in :) silly husband whom I love more than words!

My mom came to us see last week & thanks to her & her wonderful creative-ness, our kitchen is no longer white, white! (my only compliant about our new place, the kitchen is SO white & while I could paint it, I'd rather not mess w/ all that...) Kind of hard to see all the wonderful things she bought for the kitchen & the beautiful flower arrangement she made above the fridge. This picture really doesn't do it justice. If you click on the photo it should enlarge for you :) and I realize my RED "Cake Fixes Everything" sign doesn't really go but I just couldn't part with it...
But a BIG thanks to my mom for being so giving & helping us turn our place into a home! We love you!

Callie Kit-Kat is feeling much better after her accident Sunday night...thank the Lord nothing was broken & required no surgery :) just limited exercise which FYI is almost impossible with a 6 month old kitten & if I try to lock her in the bathroom, she cries & then Reno barks b/c he wants her out (they can't stand NOT to be together) such a crazy life I lead...haha!

Look for my next post - the recipe to these easy & delicious chocolate drizzled macaroons!

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

We Love Duck!


Laura aka "Duck" and I "Nanners" have been friends since 2001 and is someone we consider family. The Meador family were always considered her "Houston family" - she is originally from Amarillo. "Duck" and I lived together in the spring of 2002 while I was going to Wharton County Jr College and have been great friends ever since. Laura has such a sweet spirit & is definitely a friend anyone would be honored to have.

Laura packed up her Houston home & headed out West to California...lucky for me, I-10 runs right through San Antonio so I was able to see her before she headed out to California with a U-haul full of years & memories. While I know Laura "Duck" is scared to death about making this move...I am VERY excited for her! Nothing like a new beginning, in a new place - esp in Orange County California. I can NOT wait to go visit! I know God has amazing plans for Laura out in Cali & I wish her only the BEST! She deserves nothing less...

As a going away gift, I made Laura & Alan (her boyfriend) a goodie/roadie basket full of home-baked treats (Cowgirl cookies, seasoned oyster crackers, sausage/cheese balls & chocolate dipped macaroons)...each thing was baked with a heart full of love & best wishes!!!

Here are a few photos of Duck & I over the years...

Duck & Nanners on my Aggie ring day! Whoop!!

A friend is one who strengthens you with prayers, blesses you with love and encourages you with hope. Duck, we love you very much! Can't wait to come visit you in Cali - until then...never look behind for you might miss what's ahead :) Hugs & Kisses!!!

Cowgirl Cookies



Saturday I spent the majority of my day in the kitchen - baking! It was a great way to break in my new kitchen & use all my new cookware & kitchen gadgets. And to get my mind "off things!" I made a "going away goodie basket" for a dear friend of mine, Laura "Duck" who moved to California over the weekend. And I decided to try this Cowgirl Cookie recipe since I wanted Laura to remember her "cowgirl roots" from Texas as she headed West.

I am a HUGE fan of
Bakerella and this was my first recipe to try from her website. I do believe the cookies were a success (as did Allen) & I definitely plan on making them again soon. This recipe is one you will want to print & try out! I mean who doesn't love a fresh, homemade baked cookie - yum!

Cowgirl Cookies
(recipe copied for Bakerella)
1 1/3 cup all purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup & leveled

1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup cooking oats

3/4 cup m&ms

3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup white sugar

1/3 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans


Stir all the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.


Add
: 1 slightly beaten egg
1/2 cup butter (melted slightly in the microwave)

1 teaspoon vanilla


Mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Use the back of a large spoon to work it all together. You may even need to use your hands to get everything incorporated.
Then roll the cookie dough into 1 1/2 inch balls, place on a parchment covered baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven. Makes about 26-28 cookies.

Bakerella's photos & gift idea for this cookies are amazing! Thank you Bakerella for sharing your wonderful ideas & recipes!