The History of Aprons

I just recieved this from a friend and thought you would enjoy reading this as well. Thanks Ehart!

The History of APRONS




Mrs. Sarah Canon, Wearing a White Apron, Watching the Chickens Eat Their Feed
I don't think our kids know what an apron is.

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, because she only had a few, it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and they used less material, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.
It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.
From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.
When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.
And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms.
Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.
From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.
In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.


When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.


It will be a long time before someone invents something that will; replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.

Send this to those who would know, and love, the story about Grandma's aprons. Or it can be a good history lesson for those that have no idea how the apron played a part in our lives.

REMEMBER:
Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.

They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron.

I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron...

But Love !!

Simple Woman Day Book

FOR TODAY Monday, December 29th, 2008
Outside my window...A seven foot snow berm, and more snow falling.

I am thinking...How mysterious it is that when the snow falls the silence is so overwhelming, and yet you would think it would be noisy when the sky is falling

I am thankful that... our Pastor is feeling better and praying God will hold him and his family tight and heal them completly and protect them from the enemy of our souls.
From the kitchen...Bacon, and waffles for the visiting family

I am wearing...a new blue sweater I received from my sister in law for Christmas.

I am creating...signs to place around the house to help MIL with her Alzheimers  such as...Bedroom, bathroom...

I am going...to attempt to make it to the doctor appointment today in this snow

I am reading...Face Down

I am hoping...The power stays on

I am hearing...The clocks ticking

Around the house...A new Bedspread on my bed that my husband bought me for Christmas. It's gorgeous! Gold and cream complete with a bedskirt and throw pillows...all the "foo" as he calls it.
One of my favorite things...quite moments with Jesus

A few plans for the rest of the week: Survive the snow, enjoy family, shovel, bake, laundry, clean, and listen for God.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

 

Prayer Request for Dakota

Prayer request for Dakota...

Many of you received this prayer request yesterday and responded very quickly to our request of prayer for this young man, Dakota...

Hi Dear,
Just a quick note to ask you to pray for Dakota (my husband's boss's son) Dakota was involved in a snowmobiling accident this afternoon. He hurt his spine and shoulder, which the hospital says are going to be ok, but his jaw was broken badly. They are flying him to the hospital right now, and he is supposed to have surgery on his jaw. I will fill you in on details as I get them. Please send this out to your cyberfriends....
Thanks....
Love, me

Here is an update....

Hi Dear,
This just in:
Dakota to be released this afternoon!!!! He made it through surgery!!! Praise God!!!!
Sounds like he's gettin' better fast...
I'll fill you in as I get more info.

Just heard tonight that the family is all together and will be able to celebrate Christmas together as Dakota heals. I praise God for His mercy and healing! Thank you Lord for the skill you gave the doctors.

Thank you all for praying and the emails and now that I have the ok, I am asking the rest of you to pray for this young man and his family as well during this difficult painful road of recovery, they know that you will be praying, and appreciate it, so if you would like to leave a comment it will be passed along.

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16

It's just amazing how God bends down low to hear us pray, isn't it?

Merry Christmas Dakota and family!

Happy Birthday Dear!

The weather outside is frightful, deep snow, and -9 degress with a windchill of -19. It is a day to snuggle up by the fire with your Bible and Jesus and drink a cup of hot coffee. However, life goes on. So after a nice hot breakfast and a few birthday calls, you are outside in the frigid temperatures clearing the snow that fell again last night on top of the 32 inches from the previous storm. It's not what I would have ordered for your birthday, but you take it in stride.

(I stand corrected...37.3 inches of snow...

the longest, biggest snow storm on record since 1895!)

It gives your mom much joy to watch you through the window as you clear the snow.

She just can't believe how much snow we have or why you and the neighbor guys are out there in the cold. I remind her that you love her and I and you want to keep up safe so we won't slip.

It will be our turn to spoil you again later with lunch at Qdoba with a few others to join us at 1:oo today, and back home again for peppermint ice cream with homemade chocolate sauce.

Oh, there will be time for opening a package or two as well.

In fact,

I want you to know dear

that I hatched a plan to clear the snow yesterday

but it didn't work out.

Your mom....

didn't want to go along with the plan!

Alas... the snow is still there.

Can you believe she didn't want to go along with my plan?? :)

Thanks so much for all you do to keep us safe and warm!

We love you!

Happy Birthday Brad!

Mary had a little Lamb

Mary! had a little Lamb,

His fleece was white as snow.

And everywhere that Mary went,

The Lamb was sure to go.

He followed her to school each day,

T'wasn't even in the rule.

It made the children laugh and play,

To have a Lamb at school.

And then the rules all changed one day,

Illegal it became;

To bring the Lamb of God to school,

Or even speak His Name!

Every day got worse and worse,

And days turned into years.

Instead of hearing children laugh,

We heard gun shots and tears.

What must we do to stop the crime,

That's in our schools today?

Let's let the Lamb come back to school,

And teach our kids to pray!

Ramblings on a Monday

 Praise God for sunshine! Ok along with the sunshine comes single digit temps, but hey, I'm thankful for what I can get. I am so happy to have had time and energy and sunlight all at the same time to clean my kitchen! Those of you who live in areas that recieve much sunshine just don't understand the true meaning of spring cleaning.  With the dark months of the deep winter coing it is so nice to have some sunshine to be able to wipe and dust and sweep and santitize, especially since MIL just got over her cold. Ok so it's not white glove clean as I am interrupted many times, but it's progress, after a few months of disorganization, with still much to do.

I know, I must pace myself at this time of year being a care giver to an Alzheimer's patient. I am surrounded by friends who remind me to not over do it and ask for help when I need it. It's jsut a busy time for everyone right now, and I don't want to share the "germs" of the past few days.

Mary Barrett died.....I am saddened for myself, but know that she has been fighting cancer and is in a much better place...the arms of Jesus now! My soul has been lifted up to heaven in worship of Jesus through Mary's music. I was priveldged to watch her play in person and speak with her on several occasions. Her love of Jesus and His love for her was evident in her writing and composing, and worship.

You can sign her online Guestbook until December 16th 2008
You can listen to some of Mary's Music here.
As well as here for free mp3 downloads of Mary Barret's  Music

When I go don't cry for me
in my Father's arms I'll be
The wounds this world left on my soul
will all be healed and I'll be whole
So weep not for me my friend
When my life below down ends
For my life belongs to Him
who will raise the dead again!
Mary~

Frugal Friday Christmas gift ideas

Frugal Friday Christams Gift Ideas for the little ones.

Simple Woman's Day Book

Visit Peggy here

For Today...
Outside my window...silly little impatients that do not realize it is November, and I can't believe they are still blossiming let alone growing.
I am thinking...Life is hard but God is good...all the time!
I am thankful for...a beautiful smart well behaved grandaughter
From the kitchen...a clean sink and counter and a table piled with stuff to go through
I am wearing... Long black and white check jumper that I sewed myself a few years ago.
I am reading...Jude...earnestly contend for the faith, and beware of false teachers...these are the last days!
I am hoping...you all enjoy our free mp3 of The Greatest Gift, a Family Original Christmas Song on the side bar of my blog.
I am creating...a big mess before the end of the week, when I hope to have an organized, decorated home for the coming cold and dark winter days
I am hearing...Shirley Temple
Around the house...warm and cozy
One of my favorite things...the smell of gingerbread and decaff coffee

A few plans for the rest of the week...prepare for family

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you yup, grandbabies are the best!

Christmas time is here

Woman with a Candle

Tonight we spent some time celebrating this wonderful season we call Christmas. As Americans we can get so caught up in the parties and schedules and shopping, and miss the whole reason for the season that we celebrate. It's not about the tree, or the gifts, or the parties, but a little baby that was born in a barn.
Not just any baby though, this was the Son of Almighty God. Now think a moment, if you were God wouldn't you send your one and only Son into the lap of luxury, or the center of the Hollywood spotlight, or the highest political seat in the land? Why do you think that God allowed His Son to be born in a barn?
Perhaps God is trying to tell us that riches and power and fame, are not as important as we think they are.
Perhaps humility is more important than all these other things to the heart of God.
It was a pleasure to see the light in my Mother in Laws eyes as she heard her son read the second Chapter of Luke. Some of you who follow this blog know that my MIL has Alzheimers, yet she understands and accepts the truth of God's word as a child, with child like faith. We can learn alot from her. She listened with anticipation as my husband told of how Jesus in humility came to this earth to show us just how much God really loves us and how much we need Him.
We took the time to light two candles tonight to relflect on the this wonderful love story that God has preserved for us in His word, and that Jesus is the light of the world and we are to reflect His light as we love others in this world. We ate something sweet, Mil loves chocolate, so we had chocolate chip cookies to remind us of more of God's words..."Taste and see that the Lord He is good."

Listening to the second chapter of Luke reminded me of a song my husband wrote called "The Greatest Gift" My Husband and I and our two sons recorded the song a few years ago. I'd like to share it with you this Christmas season. You can listen to it by clicking on the player on the right column, and even download an mp3 for free, or click on the link below the player and get the embeddable player for your own site.

Merry Christmas & Blessings in Jesus!

Whate'er befall me

I was waiting for some people the other day, and while waiting I spotted a hymnal, so I took advantage of the few minutes I had and began reading the words of some wonderful powerful songs that were written for our encouragement and God's glory. Many songs today do not express the deep meanings of yesteryear. It didn't take long before I was singing out loud and longing for heaven once again, all the way led by my Savior, my sweet Beloved Jesus!

All the way my Savior leads me;

What have I to ask beside?

Can I doubt His tender mercy,

Who through life has been my Guide?

Heav'nly peace, divinest comfort,

Here by faith in Him to dwell!

For I know, whate'er befall me,

Jesus doeth all things well,

For I know, whate'er befall me,

Jesus doeth all things well.



All the way my Savior leads me,

Cheers each winding path I tread,

Gives me grace for every trial,

Feeds me with the living bread.

Though my weary steps may falter,

And my soul athirst may be,

Gushing from the Rock before me,

Lo! a spring of joy I see,

Gushing from the Rock before me,

Lo! a spring of joy I see.



All the way my Savior leads me;

Oh, the fullness of His grace!

Perfect rest to me is promised

In my Father's blest embrace.

When my spirit, clothed immortal,

Wings its flight to realms of day,

This my song through endless ages:

Jesus led me all the way,

This my song through endless ages:

Jesus led me all the way.

Baking Time

Mmm mmm good!

Great Grandma and I decided to bake some and warm up the house, and she picked this recipe.

After going to church yesterday morning the day just seemed to continue to be cold and rainy so to create a more inviting atmosphere we turned on her sun lamp to brighten things up a bit and had some fun in the kitchen. Thankfully the sun (good source of vitamin D here in the Northwest) broke through today and we went for a drive and soaked in the sun listening to

a tape of a church message we missed.

Russian Tea Cakes

1/2 cup butter at room temp.

1/2 cup solid vegatable shortening

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp Vanilla extract

2 cups flour

1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans

Beat butter, shortening, 1 cup of the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla.

Stir in flour.

Mix in nuts.

Shape dough into balls

Bake @ 325 for 30 minutes

Remove from oven and roll cookies in remaining 1/2 cup sugar and let cool.

makes about 3 dozen

Store in air tight container when cool.

Simple Woman's Day Journal, December 1st. 2008

Click on pic above to visit Peggy

For Today... Monday December 1st, 2008

Outside my window...A cold and foggy December morning, it's just beautiful.

I am thinking...How nice it was to have our son and his wife and our grandaughter, and great grandma here for Thanksgiving.

I am thankful for...for being able to hold my dear grand daughter for two hold hours as she slept while all the other went out Black Friday shopping. (poor me :))

From the kitchen... Russian Tea cakes, Turkey soup, apple and sweet potato slices steamed in apple cider

I am wearing...Olive skirt and T, with a black blouse and shoes, pearl hair combs

I am hoping...To get much done this week beginning with Laundry Monday and organinzing

I am creating...a mess, just a big mess in the living room, but there will light at the end of the tunnel of this week I'm just sure of it.
I am hearing...Silence

Around the house...So much to do, just overwhelmed
One of my favorite things...Having things organized around me and it ain't happenin' just yet, blessed are the flexible for they shall not be broken... :)
A few plans for the rest of the week...Grocery Shopping, Organizing home, Visiting Friends, Baking, and cooking with Great Grandma, Craft Faire

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Happy Blogoversary to me!

Well, that made me chuckle. I almost missed my own Blogoversary. It was Teena from Toronto that left a congrats on the previous post before I even noticed it, and I have a count down on the site! Life must be busy, but at least it keeps me out of trouble :)

Hope all my online friends and aquaintances are having a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. My prayers have gone out for those who are missing the ones that are missing this weekend. May Jesus hold you tight and may you find shelter in the shadow of His wings.

Many thanks to all those who subscribe and drop by to read as well as to those who comment or drop me a line. It is such a blessing to hear from you!

I'll be enjoying my online time with you all a bit more this coming year, as I got my Christmas gift a bit early from my Dear Husband...a new monitor!

I didn't know you could all look so good! :)

Frugal Friday Nov. 28th, 2008

It's Frugal Friday!

I am linking back to last weeks post as it has a tutuorial that will help to make those gallons and gallons of Soup from the Turkey Carcass. So don't throw it away!

Just a few add ons for the turkey stock.

1. Freeze in ice cube trays to use when making rice, meat or noodles dishes to add extra flavor & nutrients.

2. Freeze some in ziplock bags for larger amounts.

3. Store some fresh in a canning jar in the fridge to add to leftovers.

Hope you all had a wondeful Thanksgiving!

Now we can continue to be Thankful for the rest of 364 days of the year.

The Simple Woman's Day Book

For Today... November 24th 2008
Outside my window...frozen fog this morning
I am thinking...It was sad to have to miss the intimate Thanksgiving for about 2,000 of your family and friends, only missed twice in 11 years. Such is life.
I am thankful for...quiet moments with Jesus, and the hope His soon return!
From the kitchen... It's Thanksgiving week so much baking and cooking. Looking forward to making fresh cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes to go with everything else

I am wearing... A denim jumper with black shoes and my hair up in a clip
I am reading...Rental applications

I am hoping...Mum in law will be up to a fun busy week

I am creating...aprons

I am hearing...Verse by verse teaching on the radio CSN...Calvary Satilite Radio.

Around the house...It's Monday, laundry and cleaning day.

One of my favorite things...watching the first snowfall.

A few plans for the rest of the week...Dr. Appointments, Thanksgiving Day, time with family,

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Aprons

The Moment

Come share "The Moment"

It's Frugal Friday Soup!

It's Frugal Friday!

Come take a peek at how to make your own homemade chicken noodle soup.

The Simple Woman's Day Book

For Today... November 17th 2008

Outside my window...a beautiful fall morning

I am thinking...guard your heart with all dilligence and have you ever noticed that stores just skip right over Thanksgiving to the marketing of "The Holidays".

I am thankful for...quiet moments with Jesus

From the kitchen...A chicken baked at home for homeade soups and sandwhiches without preservatives.

I am wearing...A pink sundress and sandles as the house is kept warm for Mum-in-law

I am reading...the new Mary Janes Farm magazine. Did you know she opened a new shop in Coeurd'alene Idaho in the Plaza where they hold the Saturday morning Farmers Market all year round? Also reading the latest issue of Above Rubies Magazine, such a blessing to women who love Jesus.

I am hoping...my headache will go away soon

I am creating...business cards, and craft items that I will have to post sometime soon.

I am hearing...Pastor Chuck Smith teaching the Bible verse by verse on the radio.

Around the house...Mum in law is resting, the hum of the heater and the dryer and the dishwasher, floors to sweep and mop.

One of my favorite things...seeing the faces of the children as they sing to Jesus, they don't worry about who listens to them, or if they know the words or not, they just sing. A house full of people at Thanksgiving.

A few plans for the rest of the week...Dr. Appointments, washing the bed linens, taking inventory of the pantry and baking supplies, and freezer as trips ventured out in the soon coming snow with Mum in law will be fewer.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Refugee Thanksgiving

Please visit Peggy at.. The Simple Woman's Daybook

In Need of Help

I just read on my Son's Blog that someone is in need of prayer and a special surgery help. He learned of the need on the website of one of our families favorite music bands, Apologetix.
Can you take a moment to take a look and prayerfully consider what you could possibly do?

Pumpkin Biscotti

Pumpkin Biscotti

Ok Jody, this one is for you! Hope you enjoy it as much as we do. I used a full cup of pumpkin last time to make the Biscotti a bit more moist, and used alot more pumpkin pie spice to add more flavor. One thing I have not tried is making my own fresh pumpkin puree, so you will have to let me know how yours turns out. Thanks!

The Thinker...

In this day and age there seems to be an unwritten code.

"Become an individual, be one of us"

"Do your own thing, and dress like the rest of us"

"Be your own man, and act like us."

"But whatever you do...don't be an independant thinker!"

God tells us to think! And what to think upon.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Phillipians 4:8

The Simple Womans Daybook

November 10th, 2008

Outside My Window...Rain, rain, and more rain

I am thinking...How glorious

I am thankful for... the strength of God when I am weak

From the kitchen...Fresh milk straight from the cow! How good it is and how good it is for you; filled with Vitamin D the sunchine vitamin. (So great on these sunless days to know Vitamin D is still avaliable)

I am wearing...Blue sundress and sandles, yes I know it's cold, but it's warm in here for Great Grandma.

I am creating...Crafts for the Christmas craft fair at chuch next month

I am going... to listen very carefully

I am reading...The last chapters of Revelation to Great grandma. She loves to hear the description of Heaven.

I am hoping... for snow

I am hearing...The hum of the heater

Around the house...Laundry pile to fold, clean kitchen, boxes and boxes of stuff to go through, a table top filled with magazine clippings.

One of my favorite things...A hot cup of decaf coffee with evaporated milk

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Worship Jesus, read my Bible, get ready for family coming to visit this week, take care of Great grandma, household chores, visit with grand daughter, clean out fridge in rental, write down and email some recipes, bake pumpkin biscotti, fill out paper work, doctor appointments, phone calls, crochet, gorcery shopping, tea with guests, look forward to Friday.

Here is picture thought I am sharing..

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to America's Pastor, Billy Graham. I understand he turns 90 today and will be celebrating with about 160 family members, and that Billy Graham is looking forward to eating Barbeque today! I hear there is no "free lunch" but if anyone wants to visit the Libray that was built in his honor, there is no entrance fee.  God Bless you Sir and may you have a wonderful time with all your friends and family. Thank you for all your years of dedicated service to our Savior Jesus and the gospel, the good news that He died for us while we were yet sinners and that Jesus loves us!

Quote...

"A Democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury,with the result that a Democracy always collapses over loose fiscalpolicy, always followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the worlds greatest civilizations has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: From bondage to spiritual faith; from spiritual faith to great courage; from courage to liberty; from liberty to abundance; from abundance to selfishness; from selfishness to complacency; from complacency to apathy; from apathy to dependence; from dependency back again into bondage."

Alexander Fraser Tyler

Random catch up thoughts....

What??? Only 50 days till Christmas as I begin this update on this Wednesday Evening.
I'm happy that in eternity there will be no more "time",  just Eternity!

Just came back from the post office. I finally mailed off the packages to the winners of my contest. The packages were only mailed a MONTH late. Thank you sooooo much for your patience during this life changing time. Of course I can't post the pics of what I mailed yet because when I got home the camera chord that is always plugged into the computer...was not plugged into the computer and it was no where to be found. So those will be forthcoming.

So Obama won the election...Thankfully Almighty God is still on the throne, and I still only need to live my life for Jesus.

MIL was a great hit at the Harvest Festival our church puts on for the kids as an alternative to Halloween. I played the roll of Grandma and she Great Grandma at the end of the "Tour through the Bible".
 Over the years many of us have added to the "Cardboard Ministry" by painting pictures of Bible scenes on cardboard and bring a Bible scene to life. By putting them all together, we were able to bring tours through.
GGMa and I were at the end of the tour and the kids loved it when I introduced Great Grandma, she lit up seeing all the children. I went on to tell the kids of the life of Jesus, as well as the importance of understanding that the Bible is TRUTH and that many may try to trick them with lies, but they would not fall for the lies if they knew the TRUTH.

"Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE"

and no man comes to the Father, except through Jesus Christ!

Great Grandma had to leave early with my husband, her son, but as the night went on some children who came through a second and third time were asking...Where did Great Grandma go?
I told them that Great Grandmas have to go to bed earlier than Grandmas do :) and they were happy with that.

I shouldn't be surprised anymore that God answers prayer, but when it happens so quickly and exactly, it still amazes me.

Have you ever witnessed to someone who proclaims to love God, but wants to go their own way, and speak directly to God without having to go through Jesus? Some one who doesn't want to give you a straight answer on whether or not they consider the Bible to be truth and then rebukes you for "twisting their words"?
Someone one who's eyes pop out of their head and shoot right through you when you agreed that it's not a "religion" but a relationship with Jesus, and that HE is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE, and that no one comes to God except through Jesus?
We need to keep speaking the TRUTH in love to a confused, deceived world.
Thursday Afternoon, found the camera chord and will post the pics of the contest packages that were sent out last night, they will be arriving on your door step soon Raquel, Ticia, and Pam!

Reminder of the packages and winners!

Update

Yes, life can be hard, but God is good...all the time.

Thank you so much for the prayers and notes and cards, and emails, kind spoken words and hugs, that have been so encouraging and uplifting. It brings great comfort to know that Jesus is always there for us in our time of need, and that so many are willing to remind us to find comfort in the right place...in the shadow of His wings.

We are actually feeling quite loved and even spoiled this week as many are sharing meals with us. MIL's leg has been hurting and she forgets that she needs to rest it so the best way I have found to help her rest is to take her for a drive to see the beauty of God's creation right now. It is as if God is using every color on His paint pallete to beautify His creation. The leaves are gorgeous right now and are beginning to fall from the trees as well. The frost was most certanily on the pumpkin this morning, but by afternoon a beautiful time for MIL to be out in the fresh air.

After our drive we come home and I have encouraged a time of rest. Not to long after that our friends and the Helping Hands ministry at chuch have been bringing dinner to the house. MIL has decided that she likes waking up and having dinner and some sort of delicious chocolate dessert delivered everday, so she has announced, "I think I am going to stay here for the rest of my life!"

God speaks through His word, and friends and family, strangers, as well as creation. HE has a wonderful way of letting us know we are loved

Today's Devotion

Today's Devotion

Frugal Friday 10-24-08

It's Frugal Friday's

Helpful Hint

A short video

The appointment has come...

I know that Gods plans and thoughts are higher than mine, and that His plans and purposes for our lives are watched over to the tiniest details including the number of hairs on our head and even the catching of our tears in a bottle. So when a life ends I know that there is a reason and that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
It is appointed unto man once to die...
My Father in laws appointment came on Sunday morning October 12th, 2008. I'd like to thank you all for your prayers and emails, comments and phone calls. The family is arriving and the memorial service is being planned for this Thursday. There is much to do, including caring for Mother in law. If you would please continue to pray for our family and for the salvation for those who do not know Jesus I would greatly appreciate it.

 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:

for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  

Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things,

 though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.

Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle,

 to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;

II Peter 1:10-13

Look up!

Thank you all for the prayers. I just have time to allow comments and fill you in a bit.
FIL has made it out of the hospital into rehab. We were told he is a good candidate for rehab and now the work begins. It will take time to tell what motor skills will return and what will not. We expect him to be there for 2-6 weeks. His salvation is still our number one prayer. MIL is staying with us, and is normally in good spirits. When she isn't I pull out the chocolate pills :) (My chocolate chip jar) She has always been a big fan of chocolate. I am reading the book of John to her at night, and that seems to calm her down before sleeping. My husband spoils her well with hugs and listens so she is well loved and her daughters are are the phone with her alot from a long distance, and help in many ways. Our children and their wives and the great grand-daughter were all in the hospital on Saturday which helped FIL. I am praising God that I know I am allergic to Gluten this time aroudn of caring for her, so I am not in as much pain as last time. I also found a natural anti inflammatory (Arnica Montana) to keep swelling down, as I am allergic to chemical antiinflammatories and pain killers. These things and prayer are holding me up. I'll be spending time at the Rehab with MIL, so our days will be busy. I look forward to sharing some progress soon. God bless, and keep looking up, because Jesus is coming soon!
I was listening to the news this morning and there was a murder suicide of a family, by the dad, who was an unemployed financial planner. Things looked so bleak that he couldn't take it anymore...I am so glad I have my HOPE in JESUS and pray that yours is in Jesus, the Prince of Peace as well!

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. Isaiah 9:6-7

Blessings, Monika

Prayer Request update

Thank you so much for  the comments the emails and most of all the prayers. Turns out my Father in law had a stroke and will be more time before we know the full extent of it all. His right side was affected as well as his vision. Mom in law will be staying with us, as she has Alzheimers. Please continue to pray for salvation for him. Must get to the hospital at meal times to help him. After being married for 60 years he does better having her there. Gotta go mom is in the chocolate :)

Prayer Request

Not much time to post but....Grandpa...my Father in law is very sick. He is also not saved.

Would you please pray for his salvation and God's mercy,

and also for his wife who has Alzheimers and for the rest of us

....anything the Lord lays on your heart.

Thanks so much! God bless you all.

Will write more when I have time

Monika

100th Post Contest Winners

Well, it's been a long day, but before going to bed I would like to announce

the winners for the 100th post contest.

May I have a drum roll please

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Winner of Package #1....Raquel at Kitchen Mysteries

Winner of Package #2 .....Ticia at Christian Homemaking

Winner of Package #3 is.....Pam at From Bear Creek

(The packages are detailed here)

If you ladies could email me your address I will get those in the mail to you as soon as I hear from you all.

Thanks to ALL who stop by and read and encourage me with your kind words and prayers. My prayer is that you are blessed by what you find here and that it brings your heart closer to your Savior Jesus!

Good Night!

Old Fashioned Homemaking Skills

Ok, they may be known as Old Fashioned Homemaking Skills, but they are very good to know in our day and age as well.

God knows our hearts. He knows that as a homemaker I am always looking for ways to make our income stretch farther, as I am sure many of you are. If you haven't watched the news lately, things don't sound too good, but then I'm not surprised. It looks as if God has been setting the stage for end time events. He also said that the heart of many will fail with fear. I thank my God I can live in peace knowing that this world is not my home and that He is preparing a place for me and all those that believe in Jesus. I live with Hope in my heart for the things to come, glorious things that we will enjoy for all of eternity. I will see the kind face of my Jesus soon. Until then...there is much work to do. We women have work to do to carry out the plans of God. Part of that responsibility is to be like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. Proverbs 31:14

Not just with food but also with the other needs of the family. It takes a bit more searching and planning and discipline to shop the thrift stores, but it can be very fruitful.

The skills I've learned over the years have also helped.

I learned many of these skills out of necessity. There was a time when there was no money for hair cuts and I would pull out the scissors and pray and cut. There were always some guys around to eat my baking experiments so nothing went to waste. Being very tall and large has made sewing a necessity, especially since I can't find modest skirts or blouses long enough. We considered putting the children in a private school but that cost too much, so God allowed that desire of teaching to be fulfilled at home. Embroidery, crochet, typing, and baking have all been good for the home as well as in the market place. You can use your skills to make and sell things online, in front porch sales, or church craft sales, you can even use management skills to plan one before Christmas at your church or neighborhood. You can even tell others about Jesus while they visit your front porch or sales table.


But remember, there are seasons in our lives. Young mommies with little ones at home cannot do it all and neither can an empty nester. However if we pick and choose wisely, we can use some of these skills at different times in our lives to enhance the family, the family budget, and bless the lives of others.

We've all gotta start somewhere.

Here is a list of some helpful skills, along with some helpful links.

cooking and baking

raising children
cleaning
cutting hair

Urban backyard gardening

canning
embroidery
crochet

© Monika Hardy

Never Leave (Movie Trailer)

Never Leave (Movie Trailer)

Have you ever felt all alone and unloved?

Alot of our church family, kids and all, have spent the past summer learning their lines to be a part of this film. It is based on a real life story of our Pastor, Pastor Bob Davis of North Country Chapel in Post Falls Idaho.

The story has blessed many over the years when Pastor Bob would use it to illustrate the lesson of love and acceptance. I John 4:19

Jesus brings much comfort when He comes along side and puts His arm around you and tells you He loves you....when no one else does. It just puts life in a different "light".

I haven't seen the preview of the movie yet, (Grandma duty called during the cast and crew viewing as I watched our Granddaughter so our Son and Daughter in Law could go) Our Son actually learned how to play guitar for this film. I am still waiting...ok impatiently waiting, but as soon as it is available I will let you know. It's sure to be a great gift. The gift of love always is.

Simple Woman's Day Book

Outside my Window...A beautiful Fall day. The leaves are beginning to change color and the air is fresh and clean, and a weed free flower bed, thanks to the neighbor's son.
I am thankful for...the Hope I have in Jesus Christ of living forever in God's presence, washed in the blood of the Lamb.
From the kitchen..White Rice flour/tapioca flour cranberry almond cookies!
I am wearing...Black skirt, and black blouse and tan apron with brown sandals, earrings, and my hair up in clips
I am hoping...To finish many more sewing projects soon.
I am hearing...the click of the clock
Around the house...I'm going through my closets and drawers and trying to get rid of what I don't need.
One of my favorite things...Imagining what heaven will be like.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...sewing, Bible study, library, pick up my canning jars from a friend, visit with my family, help with sunday school, and help with Friday night school, write, bake something gluten free, take Grandma for a drive, and have some friends over.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Reminder...

Just a kindly reminder for those of you wishing to sign up for the contest that ends at the end of this month. You can find all the details and sign up at the 100th Post Contest before the end of the month.

A walk down memory lane

I just received this email and had to share..........

The Spoiled Under 40 Crowd
If you are 30 or older you will think this is hilarious!!!
When I was a kid, adults used to bore me to tears with their tedious diatribes about how hard things were when they were growing up; what with walking 25 miles to school every morning ... uphill BOTH ways ... yadda, yadda, yadda.


I remember promising myself that when I grew up, there was no way I was going to do this to my kids ! But now that I'm over the ripe old age of 30, I can't help but look around and notice how easy the youth of today has it! I mean, compared to my childhood, you live in a damn Utopia! I hate to say it, but you kids today you don't know how good you've got it!
1. When I was a kid we didn't have the Internet. If we wanted to know something, we had to go to the library and look it up ourselves, in the card catalog!
2. There was no e-mail! We had to actually write somebody a letter ... with a pen! Then you had to walk all the way across to the nearest mailbox & drop it in the slot, and it would take like a week to get there!
3. There were no MP3's or Napster! If you wanted to steal music, you had to hitchhike to the record store and shoplift it yourself! Or you had to wait around all day to tape it off the radio and the DJ would usually talk over the beginning and mess it all up!
4. We didn't have fancy stuff like Call Waiting! If you were on the phone and somebody else called they got a busy signal, that's it! Can you say emergency break-thru's ... until the operators caught on!
5. And we didn't have fancy Caller ID either! When the phone rang, you had no idea who it was! It could be your school, your mom, your boss, your bookie, your drug dealer, a collections agent, you just didn't know!!! You had to pick it up and take your chances!
6. We didn't have fancy Sony Playstation video games with high-resolution 3-D graphics! We had the Atari 2600 with games like 'Space Invaders' & 'Asteroids' and the graphics were horrible! Your guy was a little square! You actually had to use your imagination! And there were no multiple levels or screens, it was just one screen forever! You could never win. The game just kept getting harder and harder and faster and faster until you died! ... Just like LIFE!
7. When you went to the movie theater there no such thing as stadium seating! All the seats were the same height! If a tall guy or some old woman with a hat sat in front of you and you couldn't see, you were just screwed!
8. Sure we had cable television, but back then there were only like 15 channels and there was no onscreen menu! You had to use a little book called a TV Guide to find out what was on! And there was no Cartoon Network either! You could only get cartoons on Saturday morning. Do you hear what I'm saying!?! We had to wait ALL WEEK for cartoons!
9. We didn't have microwaves. If we wanted to heat something up, we had to use the stove or go build a fire ... imagine that! If we wanted popcorn, we had to use that stupid Jiffy Pop or a pan with HOT oil and real popcorn kernels and shake it all over the stove forever like an idiot.
10. When we were on the phone with our friends and our parents walked-in, we were stuck to the wall with a cord, a 7-foot cord that ran to the phone - not the phone base, the actual phone. We barely had enough length to sit on the floor and still be able to twirl the phone cord in our fingers. If you suddenly had to go to the bathroom - guess what we had to do ... hang up and talk to them later.
That's what I'm talking about! You kids today have got it too easy. You're spoiled! You guys wouldn't have lasted five minutes back in 1980!
Regards,
The Over 30 Crowd

"Hiz" Ladybug at 2 years old

Which made me think of my childhood and I thought I would share....

Oh that is sooooo sad...even the 1980's kids had a Utiopia! I must be over 40! HA! Back when we had to walk to school up hill both ways for at least 5 miles, with mom and a dad from Germany who thought the kids of that day had it too easy. So mom and dad made sure we wouldn't get spoiled.


1. We had to go hunting in the hills for rabbit for dinner.
2. We actually looked forward to the nights when we had liver and onions for dinner, which was alot better than when mom served eel, or octopus, or chicken gizzard goulash, or pickled pigs feet, or pickled herring with red cabbage and boiled potaotes!
3. We had to be done with dinner and bathed and in bed by 7pm so we could be up at 5am.
4. We were not allowed to use the phone.
5. TV? That was for the adults when us kids went to bed.
6. Music at our house was the Lawrence Welk Show and the Tom Jones Show.
7. Radio was only German news
8. Saturday morning was for outside chores..not Super saturday Cartoons! (except for our youngest brother...he got to watch them becaseu he was too young to help!)
9. You may spend time hanging out the at Mall...we would have family picnics at the Cemetary when dad died.
10. Phone calls, we were not even allowed to be on the phone unless there was an adult within ear shot.
11. We had to bring our lunch to school, and mom would pack liverwirst and headcheese sandwhiches on rye bread. ( Someone I know called it Prison Bread...the kind they would serve prisoners as their last meal) Of course when dad died we all got cards for free hot lunches in the cafeteria.
12. Records were only German Polka Music, until our step dad came along and we got 8 tracks of Bobby Vinton that my sister and I would sing over and over....until of course our second dad got tired of that tape and chucked it out the car window. (Roses are red my love, violets are blue, sugar is sweet my love, but not as sweet as you...Lonely, I'm still lonely, I have nobody for my oooooooown ...You are my special Angel...Ohhhhhhhhhhhh, La,la la la la la la la My melody of love)
Oh and Kathy Young...A Thousand Stars in the Sky

So now you know what is wrong with me!

You would think that we would not have had any friends at all. Au Contraire! We had kids over to the house all the time. Mom was home with us. One of the few moms that were still at home. Our friends would look at us kind of funny when we would go outside for no appaent reason, but we explained that mom just told us to. They just didn't understand her when she spoke in German. Though I don't croon to Bobby Vinton anymore, I still sing love songs...I just sing them to my Jesus now.

Whom do you seek to please?

Womanly Attire ”Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence,the richest gem in the diadem of her honor.”~Webster’s Dictionary 1828

There is much being said in regards to the clothing being worn by women these days on both sides of the spectrum. Here Paul addresses the matter, and gets to the heart of it. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. I Timothy 2:8-10 Here Paul is writing to Timothy who has remained in Ephesus.

Timothy was a timid man and Paul would write to his son in the faith to encourage him in the ways of the Lord. Here in chapter 2 Paul encourages Timothy in regards to prayer for all men, regardless of who they are or what title they hold in life, for it is a virtuous, beautiful thing to be in prayer for others.

Paul reminds Timothy that prayer should be done in purity, with faith, and without anger, decently and in order according to the ways of our God, for He speaks the truth. The life of a Christian believer should be clothed in prayer. So likewise, or in like manner, should the women be clothed in “modest apparel”.

Just as the believers life should be fully immersed in prayer, a woman dressed in modesty with sobriety, literally taken to mean as “sanity” or "soundness of mind" is beautiful and virtuous in the eyes of the Lord! (And that is who we are seeking to please isn't it?)

• Modest means clean or neat, with no vanity involved, which includes the attitude of the heart as well as the clothing.


• Apparel meant a long flowing robe down to the feet. Just as the believer is to submerge oneself in prayer so to the woman is to adorn herself in modest apparel without vanity keeping in mind the reverence of God in her life.

A godly woman is a servant to her Master Jesus, ready to love and worship and serve Him at all times. Dressing in costly garments with expensive jewelry hinders one from caring for those in need, for our children, for the sick and for the orphans. It is better to clothe ourselves with good works, as devoted servants pleasing to our Lord, for God looks upon our hearts.

As Paul reminded Timothy, pray about these things.

As you study God’s word see what He tells you, and do it.

Go ahead search the scriptures and see what God reveals to you.

Blessings, Lady

originally penned by "Hiz" Ladybug Aug, 2007

Scripture References

Tattered Old Bible, Printed in English and Published in Philadelphia, at the Gilcrease Museum


Now things are fuzzy, but soon...I Corinthians 13:12!

I was thinking Song of Solomon 5:16 this morning,

and how wonderful it will be when I Thessalonians 4:16-17 happens

and how nice it is to live out I Thessalonians 4:18

Of course, Ephesians 6:10-13 must needs cross my mind in prayer as I prepare for the day ahead,

as well as I John 1:9.

And in humility reminding my heart of Ephesians 4:30,

that I might be as God says in Colossians 1:10-11.

I was also thinking that I need to post on Nehemiah Chapter 8 on my Domestically Inclined Devotions Page,

If you haven't seen that page yet, go take a look.

And how great it is to be Logos Powered to be able to share scripture with you like this!
II John 1:3!

Simple Woman's Day Book

Outside my Window...Two pots of zuchinni with beautiful blooms, alas, no veggies yet
I am thinking...how do you know when buttermilk goes bad?
I am thankful for...God's blessings on my life.
From the kitchen..a steaming bowl of millet. (but if I were a bird it would be called birseed :)
I am wearing...tennis shoes, denim skirt, t-shirt
I am hoping...the movie "Never Leave" blesses many around the world
I am hearing...The hum of the washer and dryer and dishwasher, as my mechanical maid servants take care of the morning chores.
Around the house...I need to look into all the closets and begin deep cleaning and tossing before the days get darker and shorter.
One of my favorite things...going to bed early and listening to God.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...more sewing as the last pattern I used for a blouse was a success!

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you... Dear Hubby'a Honda 90.

Praying for the Gulf Coast Residents

Hurricane from outer space

Seems like IKE is going to be the biggest Hurricane to hit Texas in 80 years, almost to the day! Forcasted flooding is expected as far north as Mississippi! More info at Accuweather

Lord please have mercy, and keep Your children safe in Your hands.

Homeschoolers Celebrating Constitution Day

Constituion Day is September 17th
Some links to great homeschooling helps to celebrate the Constitution Day

Constitution Day Montage

The American's Creed
"I believe in the United States of America as a Government of the people, by the people, for the people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a Republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect Union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my Country to love it; to support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies." ~Written by William Tyler Page in 1917, adopted by the US House of Representatives in 1918.

THE U.S. CONSTITUTION POWER GRAB GAME

You be the judge of the Constitutional powers of each branch of government by participating:
The Power Game -- Checks and Balances in the Constitution

Read the American Freedom Documents Online

“We, the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity do ordain and establish the Constitution of the United States of America.” ~The Preamble to the Constitution

Hand Motions to Memeorize the Preamble to the Constitution (pdf)

American History for Kids DVD's

by Howard Eddgar Bovett

"Highly entertaining. Thought-provoking. This series belongs in the hands of history teachers who will use it to bring the past alive." ~School Library Journal

Boston Harbour from Constitution Wharf

Lord, have mercy on us.

Come and heal our Land.

Cleanse with your fire,

Heal with Your touch

Humbly we bow

and call upon You now,

O Lord, have mercy on us.