Life of the Unemployed

Mary's Belongings (A Poem)

2011-08-21T02:22:00.000-07:00

Mary had a little lamb

all fricassed with peas,

then a little lobster salad

and some energetic cheese;

A quart of hock to wash it down,

a taste of mountain dew -

All those our little Mary had;

and a little coffin, too.

I found this on a newspaper clipping glued in the front of a 1903 "The White House Cookbook".

(A comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home by Hugo Ziemann [steward of the White House] and Mrs. F. L. Gillette; The Saalfield Publishing Company)

Thought it was cute

Dwell Refreshed

Beginning Cooking Tips

2011-08-03T20:56:00.000-07:00

My recommendation for beginners (for everyone, actually) is to always read the recipe through before even beginning. You'll know what you will be needing.

Next, gather all the ingredients & cooking utensils you'll be needing (bowls, spoons, measuring cups/spoons, pots & pans, etc).

Yes, this is a little time consuming, but having everything in reach means you won't be spending precious time searching for something at a critical point in a recipe.

Happy Cooking & Dwell Refreshed

Marriage

2011-06-26T00:55:00.000-07:00

I wrote this a few years ago, when life called for it; felt the need to share it now.

Marriage:

Are you married? How is your marriage? If you are not married, what is your view/idea of marriage? Have you given it any thought as to your role in the couple? What do you plan to do, when the going gets tough? Are you going to plant your feet and say, "This is what I committed to and I am going to stick with it no matter what..." (not counting that which is harmful to you) OR are you going to throw up your hands and just give up, thinking it is too much trouble or too much work? Carefully consider the following, before you throw in the towel.

When you marriage is in trouble, you will need to face the situation head-on and focus on your marriage. (Colossians 3:23; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a; Philippians 4:13; 2 Corinthians 9:6; Galatians 6:7)

First, you need to make sure ALL OF your priorities are in the correct order. Is God/Jesus first? Is your husband/wife second in your life? (Matthew 19:5; Mark 10:7; Genesis 2:24). Third would be any biological or adopted children you might have; fourth would be your biological extended family and fifth would be yourself. After that would be anyone else, including any job/career you might have.

Second, is money a problem? Are you in a house that is bigger than you need or are you driving a brand new vehicle or anything extra like that? Downsize. This will save you money and help you live within your means and hopefully eradicate any problems this might be causing. (1 Timothy 6:6-8, 10; Philippians 4:11 [Key words: I HAVE LEARNED]; Philippians 4:5, 19)

Third, is the internet a problem in your home or computer/video games, television or any such item? If it seems to be a source of trouble, these should be limited or purges as needed. (Matthew 5:30; Philippians 4:7-8)

Next, have patience with each other, go slow and take it one step at a time. Rebuilding a marriage is WORK.

Your marriage commitment made to each other, before God and man IS a binding contract (Matthew 5:37). The marriage foundation needs to be grounded on Biblical standards (Matthew 5:27-37; Colossians 3:12-19; Ephesians 5:33; Mark 10:2-12; Genesis 2:23-24; Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Corinthians 7:2-12 [especially verses 10, 11 & 39]; Ephesians 5:15, 17. Also, read the story of Hosea (Hosea 1:1 - 14:9) - the moral of the story - keep going back!!) If your husband/wife moves to another state, for their job or any other reason, it is your obligation to go with him/her, no matter who you leave behind or how homesick you might be. Your husband/wife is now your life (Genesis 2:24). Just remember, we live in a time of travel & transportation. Just because you leave your family doesn't mean that you have to break your ties with them. They are not going to love you any less, if you don't live near them.

You need to be responsible and you need to do what you must to honor that commitment. Marriage does not mean maturity! How you handle the ups & downs of marriage - and sticking with the marriage - helps you grow to maturity. Also, how you treat your husband/wife is a sign of maturity. Do you respect him/her? Do you nag and batter him/her when he/she doesn't do things the way you want him/her to? Do you ridicule him/her or treat them like a child? You need to evaluate your actions towards him/her. You married him/her to be your husband/wife, not your child or toy. Treat him/her as such. You should always speak highly of your spouse to others. No matter what you say, it will almost always get back to him/her. Which would you rather they hear: that he/she is the best man/woman you could have married or how that when he/she walks away from you in a store, you treat him/her like they are 3 and they can't be trusted. Think about it!!

If you have troubles (and who doesn't...) you should follow the next step carefully:

Counseling is the next step. I suggest it in two forms. 1) a "counselor" - separate (the husband's is to be male; the wife's is to be female) and see a separate marriage counselor, at the same time (separate from the afore mentioned two). 2) Encourage your spouse to find 2-3 close, trusted friends (male - male; female - female). At least two of these friends should be older, with advanced wisdom in these matters, who would be willing to counsel and advise you as necessary. Another should be a prayer & accountability partner. Someone you can go to when you are struggling; someone who can lift you up in prayer and someone who can check to see how you are doing often. Your pastor would be an excellent place to start. (The women's group or the pastor's wife would also work, for the ladies).

You need to "date" each other OFTEN. Take time to remember why you wanted to marry him/her. My recommendation - date night each week. Suggested ideas:

Cooking together

rides

dinner

bowling

skating

breakfast (at a restaurant)

museums

picnics

zoo

long walks

treasure hunts

historical landmarks

hay ride

(NO MOVIES! movies don't give you a chance to reconnect)

Once a month, spend a weekend together - PLAN AHEAD & write it down!! Plan every detail, down to your toe polish color. Some suggestions:

Rent a houseboat & go out on a lake/river for the weekend

camping

marriage seminars (Marriage Alive! International has some great resources - www.marriagealive.com)

couples spa

rent a room in a hotel or B&B, just to spend time quietly & alone

Remember, plan ahead!

You need to purchase (if you don't already have one) an exhaustive concordance (Strong's is good). Then, spend time looking up & studying references on marriage (2 Timothy 2:15 & 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Some words to begin with:

husband

wife

marriage

love

man

woman

children

spouse

home

submit and submission (learn what it actually means!)

obey and obedience

discipline

See what the Bible says about marriage/home and DO IT! (Note: not all of the verses in each category will apply to marriage per se, but it is important to study those too)

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

How are you making this marriage work? Are you keeping it interesting?
What part of the situation did you cause? (Take responsibility for your own actions [2 Corinthians 5:10])
What changes can you make to eliminate that cause (Philippians 2:14)

Finally, remember, it takes two to make a marriage and it takes two to break a marriage. Write a contract of what you chose to do to change or enhance your marriage and share it with two of those close, trusted friends - encourage your spouse to share with 1 (same gender) and you need to share with 1 (same gender). These two should be willing to check upon your progress and encourage you at least once a month.

If you have a friend that is getting in the way of your marriage, after deep reflection, counsel from more knowledgeable individuals & prayer, you should take an indefinite break from the friendship, or eliminate it immediately...ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE STARTED ANOTHER RELATIONSHIP WITH THE OPPOSITE GENDER. Your first earthly priority is & ALWAYS will be your spouse. Don't give them reason to be jealous.

Last, but not least, spend much time in prayer. (1 Peter 5:8; 2 Timothy 2:19, 22; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, 21-22; Philippians 4:6, Ephesians 6:18; Hebrews 4:16 [KEY WORDS: COME BOLDLY]; Matthew 21:22; Luke 6:12 (example we should follow: continued all night); Acts 6:4)

Dwell refreshed!

June 2011

2011-06-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

Job hunting again & house sitting again...

Have had one interview, but nothing came of it; the house sitting is okay, just a little tired from insomnia (it takes a couple of days to settle in). The dog snoring doesn't help the insomnia!

I really like living in Michigan; it is so different than California. I'm not just referring to the weather, but things like I actually hear birds chirping and there are bugs everywhere. Where I'm from in California, there doesn't seem to be as many birds and the bugs are usually just flies. The air also smells fresher here in Michigan and on cloudless days, the sky looks bluer and brighter. I'm really hoping to get a permanent position in Michigan; I'd love to stay!

Wren Bay

2011-03-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Wren Bay

I was excited when I discovered Wren Bay; a book about making a house a home spoke to my heart. When my copy arrived, I eagerly anticipated finishing my day & curling up with the book. I wasn't disappointed!

The French influence in the book was a delightful surprise, from the fashions of the day to the delicious recipes included. Other books that I have read that included recipes only had one or two per book; having multiple recipes per chapter made this book a delicious read!

Each step of a homemakers heart is addressed in this book. Gardening in a home garden to feed your family and herbal care; learning and creating a daily routine; home cooked goodness & cocooning a house to become a place of refuge for her family. Wren uses her time of separation to settle in and create that haven for Devlin & herself.

The blessings book that helps Wren survive the separation from Devlin is an inspiration to anyone going through a difficult time. She choose to focus on the positive in her life rather than her separation. Wren also choose to focus her daily activities to what she had on hand...creating her own style of dress, combining parts of the latest fashions with "a combination of Sophia's sleek, comfortable style & the romantic fashion of Grace's day." Wren also uses that creativity to mold her home into a personal oasis. "It is the small, simple things that makes a house a home," she states.

In Wren Bay, I believe Clarice Fox-Hughes brings out the heart of the homemaker, evoking a response of "what more can I do in my home."

Storybook Woods Blog
Storybook Woods on Facebook

Buy Wren Bay

Dwell Refreshed!

The Reason For The Season

2010-11-17T06:28:00.000-08:00

Amazing work! ... SMS (Shine)

2010-11-11T06:29:00.000-08:00

Found this video of musicians who utilized the use of the Lite-Brite...Amazing. The fireworks are the best! Enjoy!

Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Send me a sign
A hint, O whisper
Fill me with life
'Cause I am listening

Come break the quiet
Breathe your awakening
Bring me the light
'Cause I am fading

Surround me with the rush of angels' wings

(Chorus 1)
Shine Your light so I can see You
Pull me up, I need to be near You
Hold me, I need to feel loved
Can You overcome this heart that's overcome?

(Verse 2)
You sent a sign
The hint, O whisper
Human, divine
Everyone is listening

Death laid low
Quiet in the night is stirring

All around the rush of angels

(Bridge)
O the wonder of the greatest love has come

(Chorus 2)
Shine Your light so all can see it
Lifted up, 'cause the whole world needs it
Love has come, what joy to hear it
He has overcome, He has overcome

Fall

2010-10-12T07:05:00.001-07:00

The days grow shorter,
the nights grow cooler;
the frost is blossoming;
the leaves are languishing...
the promise of snow hangs in the air;
the geese are honking,
the fires are rolling;
the promise that cold is coming here...
each is a piece of a puzzle;
the finished picture states...
that over all...it is fall!

Thought provoking post: Being Unique

2010-10-05T11:27:00.001-07:00

Today's post I hope will be thought provoking. After reading the referenced article (right click the title of this post and open in a new tab to read article), I have done much thinking and there are several things I hope to implement in my life.

"Christianity is unique and because of that uniqueness, Christians are expected to be different from those who do not know Christ."

What does it mean to be different? In what ways are we to be different?

In my life I attempt to remember this in the choices I make. I lean toward what most would consider a more conservative approach, however, after reading this article, I believe that I need to be more conservative in some areas of my life.

I try to be dressed modestly, but I believe there is room for growth. In my entertainment choices I know that I could do better. There is a verse that says we are not to allow sin to reign in our lives (body; Romans 6:12). To me personally, the area that I need to mostly apply it currently is to the area of entertainment. Is what I choose glorifying to God? If it isn't, why am I watching/reading/listening/etc to it. Even if it is just one point in a 400 page book or one word in a 90 minute movie, why should I allow it? If I do then maybe next time I'm watching a movie or reading a book do I say, "no, I'm not going to watch that movie/read that book" or am I going to say, "well, last time there was just one word and that wasn't too bad; maybe this time I'll just let it go again." Before I know it, I am encased in sin.

We need to remember I Peter 5:8... the devil walks about like a lion, seeking whom he may devour. If I give him one toe hold in my life, he will devour it and take it all.

A couple of other things along this line that the author stated is: "there ought to be an observable difference in the way Christians live - how they think and what they do," and "it is meaningless to tell people that Christ will make a difference in their lives, when there is no difference to be seen in one's own life."

Wow. I really need to evaluate my life and begin to make changes.

In the author's section entitled "It is a Corporate Concern" he addresses the concerns of the modern day church service. He states "the clamor for relevance in such churches has masked any sense of the true difference that exists between Christ and the World."

I have to ask myself, what is my hand in this? Is there anything I need to change about my activities in the church and it's service.

One of his final thoughts is the most provoking of all:

"When a woman dresses seductively to catch a man, we question her moral integrity. Why is it that when the church dresses seductively to "catch" a convert, we applaud its clever use of deceit?"

What is it that makes me unique as a Christian? (I am bought with a price [I Corinthians 6:20]; I am chosen [John 15:16, John 15:19, Titus 2:14])

How can I be unique in my Christian life?

(choosing truth [I Corinthians 13:6], choosing Philippians 4:8 [true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of a good report, with any virtue, any praise - thinking on those things])

Personally, I need to evaluate my entertainment, my clothing choices, my words (Matthew 15:17-20), my friends (yes, this is included...friends are influencing in our lives and if they do not live godly lives they will not be encouraging us to live godly lives.), what I do with my resources & my stewardship choices (not just $$, food, care of our bodies, care of the material goods that is provided for our use, etc is included here).

One final quote:

"[Christianity] is not just another religion, it is the only way to God (John 14:6)"

Let us be unique!

Dwell refreshed!

Blessings

2010-08-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have arrived in Michigan with minimal problems. The trip was a long one but enjoyable when I wasn't sleeping. I've setteled and have started orientation for my new position. I am so blessed to be working at a job where we spend the first part of our day in prayer and devotions. I have became more peaceful since I have arrived and am being refreshed daily in this fellowship. I look forward to next week, when the students arrive and to having a great year!

I am being overwhelmed with the blessing that have been bestowed upon me this past few weeks/months. I pray that I am able to be a blessing to others as a result of what has been given to me.

Dwell Refreshed!

Doors Flying Open, Left and Right

2010-07-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

I've been praying some time for direction on the employment front since I've been off work. It has finally came together. Beware...if you are around me...the doors are flying open everywhere.

First, the opening of the door to apply for the position I accepted today. Girl's Dorm Assistant Dean, Study Hall Supervisor and Keyboarding and Computer teacher at our church's boarding school.

Next, the means...

a) the unemployment (which I had not received since mid-June) was reinstated after the Senate signed the bill a week or so ago;

b) receiving my unemployment claim forms and the unemployment check process only taking a couple of days, instead of the normal 5 and coming in early;

c) the school offering to help in paying a portion of the relocation costs.

The third thing I was concerned with was that I had already committed to house-sitting. In visiting with the house owner yesterday, she mentioned that her son was flying in from out of state and would be visiting 2 weeks, including the week she is going to be gone, and that relieved me of the house-sitting.

Now I'm heading east and so excited at the prospect!

Dwell refreshed!

A Day with Grandma

2010-06-22T21:52:00.001-07:00

My grandmother is 81...82 in November. She is a little spitfire! When I say little, I mean short. She was 5 feet tall when I outgrew her when I was approximately 9 years old. In the years since, she has shrunk a few inches. She is now 4 foot 10 inches. I call her Grand Lady and Short Stuff...affectionately! She has been my best friend for my adult life and most of my childhood. She has been there for me through thick and thin.

It has been several weeks since I saw my grandmother due to both of our vacation trips out of the area. She left south the day I came home (also south, but from another state). So, today, I went to spend the day with her.

First, we went shopping...her for things she needed for her house and myself for items that are needed for our annual family reunion (which my grandmother help start, 34 years ago). It is on Sunday. After that, we went to a sandwich shop and picked up a couple of subs...and then we went home to eat. We watched a movie, "Amish Grace".

After the movie was over, she went in to lay down. I think, to save up her energy so she could wear me out later in the afternoon. The cable company is having trouble getting their lines fixed, so the TV view was limited. Then a worker came and was working and knocked out the little I had been able to watch. I thought about watching a movie, but decided to turn on the Wii instead. I played around with several of the sports games...bowling, tennis and baseball. Since it is only my 2nd time playing a Wii, I didn't do so well, but I picked it up quickly.

After grandma got up from her nap, she came back in the living room. She said she's like to play the bowling game with me (not the regular bowling, but the one where more pins are added each throw). So I set up for two players. WHEW! I now understand why people use it to lose weight. That has to be the best workout I've had in some time. I'm exhausted tonight. We played 3 games. Grandma won the first, I the second and she the final game. She also holds the score for the most pins knocked down, 722. My closest score is 535. Next week, when the reunion is over, I plan on spending more time with grandma, during the day. I will try my hardest to beat that 722!

After that, we just hung out more, and I played a little more Wii (golf) while we chatted. I finally called it an evening around 8pm and came home. Below is a picture of my 81 year old grandmother, playing Wii bowling...and winning!

What have you done with your grandmother lately (if she is still living)?

Check out the video here:

Dwell Refreshed.

Fortune Cookie Fortune...

2010-05-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

(Not that I believe in the fortunes that come in the cookies, but had to share)...opened up a fortune cookie and the fortune was "the love of your life is right in front of your eyes."

Felt kind of strange since I was looking at my computer....

Cookies

2010-04-11T22:07:00.000-07:00

I played with a recipe that I've already mentioned on here, my great-grandmother's Bread Crumb Cookies (Feb. 9, 2010). I changed the cloves to cinnamon. Also, because we didn't have raisins, I used dried cherries. The third thing was that the dough was very dry and crumbly, wouldn't stay together so I added 2 tablespoons of milk and about 1/8th cup of water. I still baked them the 10-12 minutes and they came out fine. Better than fine...the change to cinnamon and addition of the cherries made these already delicious cookies delectable.

The other cookies I made were Butterscotch Gingersnaps. I needed to use the butterscotch chips and this was the recipe I used. The flavors of the gingersnap cut down on the sweetness of the butterscotch making these cookies very enjoyable; it all blended together wonderfully.

Butterscotch Gingersnaps
about 5 dozen

3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ginger
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, room temperature
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/3 cup molasses
11 ounce package butterscotch chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F; combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt; set aside. Cream together butter, sugar, egg and molasses until creamy. Gradually add in flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Add in chips. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 9-1 minutes or until cookies are lightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet for a couple of minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely. YUM!

Dwell refreshed!

Post #50

2010-03-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

Whee...I was going to post something else, and I will, but wanted to mark the 50th post.

Cake in Mug II

2010-03-21T23:25:00.001-07:00

I have been playing with the Cake in Mug recipe a bit. I started with just eliminating the cocoa and chocolate chips:

Vanilla Cake in Mug
1 serving

4 tbsp flour
4 tbsp sugar
1 egg
3 tbsp milk
3 tbsp oil
2-3 tbsp butterscotch chips, coarsely chopped (optional)
½ tsp vanilla (Tahitian)

Add dry ingredients to large coffee mug mix well; add the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Add chips if using. Put mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts (insert knife in center to test doneness). The cake will rise over the top of the mug.

Note: Outside of cake will appear spongy…inside will be done.

AND just now...

I created the Almond Cherry Sour Cream Cake in Mug...this recipe, however is 1 extra large serving or 2 servings. I cut it in 1/4ths after using a gigantic coffee mug and served 3 small servings. (No picture...we enjoyed it before I thought of getting out the camera...next time though).

Almond Cherry Sour Cream Cake in Mug
2 serving

9 tbsp flour
6 ½ tbsp sugar
1 egg
3 tbsp milk
3 tbsp oil
½ tsp vanilla (tahatian)
2 heaping tsp sour cream
1 tsp almond extract
¼ tsp cherry extract

Add dry ingredients to extra large coffee mug or small soup bowl and mix well; add the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Put mug in the microwave and cook for 4 minutes and 30 seconds at 1000 watts (insert knife in center to test doneness). The cake will rise over the top of the mug.

Note: Outside of cake will appear spongy…inside will be done.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Is even better with homemade Raspberry-Plum jam, if you have some. (I used that which my cousin [Lynn Geiszler] made).

I also mix my ingredients in a separate container before pouring into mug, usually a glass 2-cup measuring cup and mix with fork. Makes mixing much easier.

Enjoy & dwell refreshed!

Early Morning Scramble

2010-03-21T05:50:00.000-07:00

I've been up all night saving recipes from some of my mom's cookbooks into my computer. I started getting hungry after a few hours so I decided to fix myself something to eat. What I came up with was delicious so I'm sharing it. Would also be great with any fresh vegetables you have on hand...bell peppers, green onions, etc. Can also wrap up in tortilla and eat on the go.

Early Morning Scramble
2 servings

3 spears of broccoli florets
2 tbsp minced onion
1/2 carrot, diced super fine
1/2 celery rib, diced super fine
3 eggs
1/8 tsp garlic powder
1/8 to 1/4 tsp salt (optional)
1/8 tsp pepper
1/8 to 1/4 tsp dill weed
Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 handfuls or as little or much as you want)
1/2 to 1 tbsp butter

Put skillet on low to heat; add butter. Break eggs into a bowl and scramble with a fork; add salt, pepper, garlic powder and dill weed. Pour in hot pan. Once the eggs have started to set slightly, add chopped vegetables and stir in. Cook to desired doneness, stirring occasionally (I don't like ooze, so I cook to well done). When just about done, turn off heat and add a handful of cheese and stir in. Add about 1/4 of handful to bowl or plate; pour egg mixture onto plate and add remaining cheese to top. Serve immediately.

To prepare the night before, chop up all vegetables and place in fridge overnight. Set out spices, pan, plate, etc. In a.m. heat pan and prepare as above.

Spring Time

2010-03-17T00:03:00.000-07:00

We've been having warmer weather and lots of sunshine in my corner of the world the past few days. It is such a nice change from all the rain. It was even warm enough to wear shorts today (70's)...white legs and all!! It's a good thing I didn't leave the house today. :)

Here are some springtime pictures I took recently. Hope they cheer your day!

Cake in Mug

2010-03-16T23:52:00.000-07:00

I made a couple new recipes today...

The first was a vegetarian meatloaf...it was quite good. My dad, who is (personally, himself) is against eating vegetarian food even liked it. I took a taste and asked him to tell me what he thought of the flavor before I told him what it was. At dinner, he ate two pieces. He did state that he wouldn't want it all the time and that he wants his meatloaf with meat in it, but that he thought it was okay.

The other recipe is Cake in Mug.

I actually made three (for two of my brothers and myself). The first one overflowed and made a mess of the mug and the napkins I had it sitting on. The second one puffed up without overflowing...like it was supposed to be. The third was a volcano (pictured below). Still, they tasted yummy. Great with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee!

Cake in Mug

1 serving

4 tbsp flour
4 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp baking cocoa
1 egg
3 tbsp milk
3 tbsp oil
3 tbsp miniature chocolate chips(optional)
a small splash of vanilla essence
1 coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well; add the remaining ingredients (except chips) and carefully mix thoroughly. Add the chocolate chips (if using) to top of cake. Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug.

Today's Weather

2010-02-26T19:59:00.000-08:00

Here in Northern California, we've been having rain again. Today I captured two rainbows...even was able to take pictures of the one touching the ground. It was a complete arch, however, I couldn't get enough distance to take the entire arch. They were so beautiful!

Lilias Trotter Quote

2010-02-17T20:40:00.000-08:00

From her diary, September 9, 1902

Trained faith is a triumphant gladness in having nothing but God - no rest, no foothold - nothing but Himself - A triumphant gladness in swinging out into that abyss, rejoicing in a very fresh emergency that is going to prove Him true - The Lord Along - that is trained faith.

Yum...Bread Crumb Cookies...

2010-02-09T19:35:00.000-08:00

Today I made a "new to me" recipe. This recipe was from my maternal great grandmother's recipe collection. The instructions were to mix all ingredients and bake. Well, since we are using this recipe for our family reunion (newsletter and website), I needed to make a batch to find out the baking time/temperature.

The house smelled great while they were baking. They turned out to be crispy and chewy cookies. The ground cloves were definitely there...left a slight after taste. Next time I make them...and I will be...I might try cinnamon instead of the cloves or less of the cloves with cinnamon as well.

They were yummy otherwise and I am so excited to have recipes from my great grandmother handed down to me.

Bread Crumb Cookies

36-48 cookies

1 cup bread crumbs

1/2 cup raisins

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1/2 cup butter

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 egg

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

Mix all ingredients; drop in greased pans with teaspoon and bake.

Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes or until golden around edges.

Bread Crumb Cookies

Baby Blue Eyes

2010-02-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

I fell for those eyes of blue,

the moment I met you.

Your smile so bright,

to this weary soul gave light;

a tickle of the tummy,

a giggle worth more than money;

For six months you gave so much love,

sent from heaven above,

Now your gone, my heart will have to go on,

but forever...there you'll live on.

Note: Not gone in death; He was adopted by someone other than me.

Looking back in time...to 1991

2010-01-18T07:58:00.000-08:00

While going through some papers last night, I came across a poem/song I wrote while I was in high school. It was mid-winter break (Christmas) and I stayed in Michigan instead of coming home. I was staying at a relative of a cousin of mine. It was quite late at night, probably around midnight or so. I was sharing a room with some of the children in the family and couldn't turn a light on, so I wrote in by the moon light that was streaming in the window directly over me. I thought I'd share it.

My life was shattered,

I was down in the dumps.

I couldn't hold myself up

and I was gonna jump.

Then I saw Him.

That Man with the nail prints in His hands.

A gentle tugging at my heart

came only with two words;

spoke from the heart...

Don't go.

As I looked in those sad eyes,

I saw love and compassion as He repeated...

Don't go.

I turned toward Him,

tears in my eyes.

I said, "I'm sick of this life,

I want to go."

Then He sat down and said,

"I can give you a new life,

just don't go, follow me."

My life has changed,

I'm thankful I didn't go.

With my new life and love I now can say...

Don't go,

please don't go,

don't go,

oh, don't go.

Dwell refreshed.

December 21, 2009

2009-12-22T00:54:00.000-08:00

December 21, 2009 was a sad day in our little corner of the world. Spitz, my brother Joe's cat, died at 9:15a.m. Joe and I spent the last 3 hours of his life with him, Casey joined us for the last hour. It was such a difficult time, watching him struggle for breath at the end. We hoped he would have gone quickly, but he didn't; he is now no longer in any pain and he isn't suffering. He was a loved little boy!

Spitz joined our family in 1996. Mom told Joe that if he got his grades up, he could have a cat. One day, mom saw some wild kittens sitting on our back fence and told dad to go get one for Joey. Dad was trying to catch a gray fluffy cat and came up with Spitz when the others scrambled away before dad could get there. Dad named him...Spitz. Spitz was chosen because when dad brought him in, he was spitting and trying to claw dad. He was soooo tiny. He fit in the palm of our hands.

We put him in a tall box and would pet him to tame him. He eventually came around and became a tame kitten.

Dad tells a story about Spitz, how dad would grab him and flop him over and grab his belly...soon, Spitz would walk up to dad and flop over and try to grab dad in play. The boys also tried to get him to fight all the time. I, myself, am allergic to cats and needed him not to scratch every time someone went to pet him. When dad and Casey drove to Michigan, I tamed him again and he really only fought with Joe after that.

Also, when he was a kitten, dad brought in a fishing pole with a plastic worm on it. We would cast it down the hall and Spitz would chase it back up, as we reeled it in. Eventually, if we wanted to play, all we had to do is pull the line out, making a sound as it unwound and he would come running. Eventually, dad put the pole away; later in life, when dad would get the pole out to set up for fishing, and he pulled the line, Spitz would still come looking to play.

Spitz was a sickly cat most of his life. He would throw up and throw up and he would loose weight and look terrible and then a few months later, he would be healthy, full of fire and glowing coat. He loved to sit in the sun. His fur would gain a red tinge in the sun. The past few years, Spitz would go roam the neighborhood, disappearing for days on end. About three weeks ago, he became quite ill again, loosing weight. He was so thin, loosing weight each day. He became more lethargic as the days went on. We brought him in the house and fixed a box for him to sleep in. At night, we'd put it in the bathroom, so if he messed, it would be easier to clean (and not on the carpet!).

Approximately 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec 20, Spitz walked into Joe's room, where his box was and crawled up into it. When Joe went to bed, he transfered the box to the bathroom again. At 6a.m., I went to the restroom and noticed that Spitz was struggling to breath slightly. When I moved his head, it was completely lethargic and he didn't respond. I went in and woke Joe up and told him he needed to come. He took the box into the living room and laid down on the floor next to the box, I sat in the recliner. For some time, Joe held his dying body. Finally at about 8a.m. he started struggling more. He would gasp every so often for breath, breathing his last at 9:15 a.m.

He was Joe's best friend, but we all loved him!

Rest in Peace dear black baby boy!!

Jibberish

2009-12-19T23:20:00.000-08:00

There once was a man from the land of Google, who thought he wanted a poodle.

He climbed in his machine and began to glean...using his noodle...

information on getting a poodle...he named it Doodle.

This is a rhyme without a purpose,

written during a time when I wasn't nervous...

just looking to kill time...

with this silly rhyme!

Trying new things

2009-12-12T23:32:00.000-08:00

Today, I became a caterer's assistant for a few hours. I washed fruit, peeled and sliced more fruit, layered various danishes on a tray and helped load the transport van. Tomorrow I am staying home to help with two sick or invalid persons. Shall make for an interesting day.

Trying something new

2009-12-04T23:55:00.000-08:00

I tried a couple of new recipes today. One was a Smoked Salmon Pizza. It sounds strange, but it was actually quite delightful. The other was a Jalapeno Poppers Dip recipe. I made both for potluck tomorrow. The popper dip won't be tasted until tomorrow since it needs to be baked just before serving. I purchased Triscuits and another cracker to go with it.

The other thing I did today was go to an adoption agency to get signed up to adopt. I'm quite excited to get the ball rolling. I'll update periodically on the progress.

Dwell refreshed.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-04T01:51:00.000-08:00

Our family had a great Thanksgiving. It was a small year for us. We had approximately 45 people. My mother made 33 pies, we had 3 turkeys (2 roasted in oven, 1 smoked), mashed potatoes, dressing/stuffing, gravy, yams/sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, creamed corn (homemade by my grandmother, not out of a can), rolls and much more.

My grandmother insists on having a "program" each year. This year it consisted of my aunt, her grandson and a cousin reading/singing a poem book. Then my g-ma insisted that I play the piano, so instead of just playing one song, mom and some of the children handed out hymnals and I played while everyone sang.

My contribution to the meal was peanut butter chocolate chip cookies and pumpkin dip with apple slices and gingersnaps for the appetizers, rolls (8 dozen) and for the children, suckers made out of melted life savers, loosely in the shapes of apples and pumpkins. The little ones loved them and ate them before they even had dinner.

The food was great. I only had one complaint...my stomach wasn't big enough to keep going. I had a piece of rhubarb-raspberry pie and ended up taking cherry and berry home. They were delicious as usual.

That night, I took my two young cousins, who are more like a niece and nephew in relationship with me to where I was house sitting. They stayed Thursday and Friday nights. I let them stay up late and sleep in on Friday. When we got up, we went to KFC/A&W to eat (chicken and hamburgers). Then we went shopping at the Dollar Tree. I even purchased a few items for their birthdays, and they never saw the items. Cool! After stopping at the grocery store for a few items, we went back to the house. We had pizza and gingerbread cake for dinner; watched a couple of dvd (George Younce [Cathedral Quartet] memorial dvd and Watchmen Quartet [Calif]). It was neat to see their responses to the dvds. We went to be early on Friday. On Saturday, we got up and went to church. There was potluck after the service. Both R & O were excited to be able to attend church with me.

Thanksgiving, one of my favorite holidays of the year, was a nice celebration extended through the weekend.

Dwell refreshed

Housesitting 101

2009-11-18T15:38:00.000-08:00

Housesitting 101

If the timeframe is more than just a few days, make sure you get all instructions in writing.

Make sure you are comfortable with the people you are housesitting for; you will be comfortable in their house. If not, there may be a bit of awkwardness while staying there.

Items you’ll need to know about (instruction to get in writing):

· Emergency Contact Numbers where the home owners will be

· Phone: Do the home owners want you to answer the phone when there is a call or let it go to voicemail

· Gardening/Yard work (watering/mowing; planting/harvesting [if vegetables, etc], plant trimming, where the hoses/spigots are; garden tools needed [if any])

· Pets (food/water/toys; if pets are allowed indoors; any special instructions; vet clinic and what to do if there is an emergency with a pet)

· Any special phone calls (doctor’s appointments, other important information such as lawyers/insurance agents/etc)

· Garbage service (when to put out; where cans are located, etc)

· Washing Machine/Dryer (if any special instructions)

· Cleaning Supplies locations (broom/dustpan/mop/bucket/window cleaner/vacuum/etc)

· Food (any to be used immediately/what is available to you and what is not [if any])

· Mail Delivery (a place to collect mail, if home owners are having you pick it up) and Newspapers (if home owners are being delivered; do home owners want you to save them or throw out, etc)

· Towels/Washcloths/Dishcloths and kitchen towels

· Any rooms/areas that are off limits

· Are guests acceptable

Have a notebook and pen (if not provided) to take any phone messages that might come in while you are housesitting (if you will be answering the phone)

These folks are trusting you with their home, respect it and their privacy.

If you are not from the area pick up a map of city/town, along with a local phone book, if it is not provided. Most phone books have a basic map of the area, but not usually too detailed. Also, go driving around to become more familiar with the area. It might also be a good idea to find out where the nearest fire department is and where the police station is located. Another helpful place you might look up is the post office.

If there are pets you’ll be caring for it might be a good idea for you to go a few days ahead, while the homeowners are still in town for the pets to get to know you soon. You’ll also want to find out if there are any special instructions for the pets (such as: a dog that doesn’t like to be grabbed by the collar and will bite if such is done; an older pet that might pass away while in your care and what to do in that case; any special dietary needs of pets, etc)

One of the most challenging aspects of house sitting is the amount of time you will be alone. If you are not used to spending most or all of your time alone, this can prove to be somewhat unsettling. If you are house sitting away from your normal activity area (your home and the city/town you live in and around), and you are housesitting for more than a few days, you might consider getting to know some of the neighbors in the area. Also, check, the local newspaper for any festivals or community activities going on in the area. It also helps to keep in contact with your family and friends. If you are working while housesitting, this might not be as difficult since you most likely will be interacting with others during your work hours. Your alone hours will not be as many. If you are a person who has a difficult time meeting new people, you will need to plan ahead to have activities to fill the hours you will be alone. If you are allowed to have guests over, plan a weekend activity to connect with your friend/family.

Items to bring with you when housesitting

(some are needed if you are house sitting for more than a couple of days and especially if you are not working while you are housesitting)

· Clothes

· Shoes

· Personal grooming supplies

· Activities to keep busy with (if you are working a steady job, you’ll probably not need as many of these since you’ll most likely be gone most of the day during the work week)

o Books/Magazines

o Movies

o Computer

o Video Games

o Other projects you might be working on

o Etc

· Food (if there is anything specific you want or for any special dietary needs)

· Medicines (if you are taking any) and any that you might need in case of illness.

· Personal bedding (if not supplied or if you are like me and like your own blankets and pillows)

Life in a Small Town

2009-11-16T18:10:00.000-08:00

Living in a small town

Born and raised in the Lodi (CA) area, I have always heard Lodi described as a “small town” or having a “small town atmosphere”. The past two months I have been living in a town with less than 25,000 inhabitants...truly a small town. In two months I have discovered that living in a small town has many advantages. Along with the advantages also come disadvantages.

The neighbors are friendly; even going so far as to put out the garbage cans for their neighbors. For all the friendliness, there was an extremely small down side. The newspaper disappeared for several days. After I realized it was walking away, I started going out to pick it up earlier in the day. The second day of retrieving it earlier, one of the previous days papers, that had gone missing, was returned, rubber banded together, ads and all.

The cashiers at the mom & pop grocery store know their customers by name, greeting them when they walk in. They are welcoming to an unknown customer with warmth and delight, as if they have known you for years. The politicians are also personable. During the election time, while I was there, I spoke to a mayoral candidate on the phone, when she phoned the house to stress her platform for running. During “trick or treating” on Halloween, a flyer from her campaign was left on the doorstep and on Election Day, a reminder call to vote, from one of her volunteers. Not a recorded voice, but an actual pleasant person. She won the election. I don’t know if it was because of her personal approach or not, but I would think it was in her favor.

Another thing, livestock is not banned from “city limits”, a goat or lamb bleated in the house behind where I was staying. I also hear a rooster several mornings. Delightful sounds to this city turned country girl.

The air in a small town is fresher not bogged down by smog and other big city stenches; you can step outside at night and see the stars. Not just the few with the strongest light, but many, many more.

Businesses close up in the early evening as the owners and employees go home to their families. I had become used to having 24 hour stores and it was a change for me to be in a place where there were none. Such was a great learning experience on waiting, no “instant gratification” for the things I desired or needed.

Having had this experience and already having the desire to eventually move to a small town, I learned first hand experience that moving to a small town will be a delight, one I greatly look forward to.

House Sitting

2009-09-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

I am going to be housesitting and dogsitting for 30-60 days. I am going to be in a little country town called Riverbank. It will be quiet. I'm looking forward to the change that it will bring for a few weeks.

New Approach II

2009-09-13T17:27:00.001-07:00

I delivered the resume to the prospective company. I had an impromptu "interview" with the person responsible for hiring. She didn't have an application for me to fill out and I said that if she would like, she could send one to me. This was on September 4.

The weekend was a 3-day weekend because of Labor Day. I faithfully checked my email each day, just in case she sent it over the weekend. I also checked in on Tuesday. When it wasn't emailed, I called and spoke with her again, after I had downloaded a few blank application forms from google. She stated that they had not received any new applications. I told her I had some downloaded and would be willing to fill one out and send it in. She said that would be okay. So I did. It has not been a week since I sent it in, but I have not heard anything from her. Tomorrow (Monday, September 14, 2009) I am going to call her with a follow-up. I'll keep everyone posted if this works.

Dwell refreshed.

New Approach

2009-09-04T01:10:00.000-07:00

I was job searching today and I, unintentionally, am trying a new tactic. I found a possible position online and while I was gathering information on the company, so I could address my cover letter to the correct person, I ended up requesting that I personally hand deliver my resume to her. That was a new one for me...at 10a.m. today, I will be delivering...in Modesto (@ 1 hr away).

Hopefully I will stand out from the rest!

Later, I will post what happens with this new tactic.

Dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: Proverbs 16:3

2009-08-27T01:03:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 16:3

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

This verse has been with me for a couple of weeks. Every time I open my Bible it jumps out at me. I am committing it to my life and my works to Him and my thoughts have been established...not too worrisome or frantic, just peace that all will work out eventually.

Dwell refreshed!

Simple Pleasures

2009-08-27T00:08:00.000-07:00

Have you stopped today to partake in life's simple pleasures? Such as snuggling with a child and spending a few precious moments that will turn into a lifetime memory for that child? Have you ever pondered the sunset spread across the sky in glorious color? How about the fresh from the garden produce that you slice and eat...just off the vine.

Here is my simple pleasure from today:

Fresh tomato salad for 1

1 fresh off the vine tomato, sliced

1 green onion, chopped (fresh picked if possible)

2-3 pinches garlic powder

2-3 pinches ground oregano

3-4 pinches dill weed

2-3 tsp vinegar

Spread tomato slices on plate, cover with green onion bits; sprinkle with the pinches of herbs and spices; drizzle with vinegar. If you desire a quick drizzle of olive oil would be great with this also.

Dwell refreshed!

Everything and Nothing

2009-08-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

It has been almost two weeks since I have posted. First my computer had a Trojan...from the same place that took my $$ (which was returned...thanks to my great bank!) most likely, which prevented my accessing the Internet. Since it has been fixed, thanks to my youngest brother, I have been working at getting some things completed. I never realized how dependant I have become on the Internet until it wasn't available. I am so grateful for a brother who knows enough about computer to fix things

I am so blessed not to have broken my ankle a couple of weeks ago. The water main in our yard was the culprit. The lid wasn't on completely and (at night) when I was walking across the yard, my foot slipped in and scraped up the back. If I hadn't kept my balance (angels working overtime!!) I would have broke my ankle. If my foot had been any smaller, it would probably have slipped in further and I would have fallen and broken my ankle or even my leg. I am so blessed to have just walked, well...limped would be better...away with a scratch.

The hole

The result

Today, I had a job interview...

Interview...that was a laugh. It was a testing session. What I don't understand is when the Employment agency tests me, why do I need to go "test" at the company...

Oh well, I survived it and hopefully I will get the job!

All three of my brothers had birthdays this month (this past week). Joe on the 18th, Casey on the 22nd and Jim on the 24th. Happy Birthday to them!

On the 23rd, our family grew again when my cousin had her first, a girl. She is such a beauty! I can't wait to meet her in person!

Congratulations to the family.

Dwell refreshed!

Frustration....

2009-08-13T17:05:00.001-07:00

FRUSTRATED!!!

With people I live with. Grrrrrr. It never stops. Do certain persons understand that the constant (and I mean never-ending) negativity is so overwhelming? There is no relief.

I am trying hard to not let this situation sabotage my control; most days I do okay. Today...it could go either way!

I just am beyond knowing what to do. Next week, if I don't have a new job I am starting, I may just run away for a day or so. Give myself a break!

Daily Verse: Isaiah 40:28-31; Psalm 121:3-4; Hebrews 6:(17)-18

2009-08-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 40:28-31

28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.

29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.

30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fail;

31 But they that wail upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Psalm 121:3-4

3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.

4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep

Hebrews 6:(17)-18

17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:

18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

He does not faint

He is weary

He does not sleep

He never slumbers

He can not lie

Such promises to remember!!

Jesus, refresh my mind with the promises of you watching out for me.

Dwell refreshed

Daily Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6

2009-08-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 3:5-6

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths.

Trust...

(\) our own understanding...

Acknowledge...

ALL...

Directed!

Re: Job Interview

2009-08-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

I had a message on my phone last night, which I didn't get until this morning. It was the temporary agency calling to say they have a job interview for me. I go in on Friday morning. It is with an insurance agency, but the sell health. That is okay by me; I wanted to learn it eventually. I think the best way to learn is hands on.

Daily Verse: Proverbs 18:10

2009-08-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 18:10

The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

At my church, we sing a chorus with these words; every time we sing it, it gets stuck in my head...which isn't a bad thing...it is a favorite chorus of mine.

This morning, while I was reading this verse and meditating on it, the following went through my head and I wanted to share it.

Wall of protection,

surround me

Hear my voice, O Lord

enemies encamp about me

Danger is lurking in the way

guide my footsteps as you promise

teach me each and every day

Your blessing glorious

provide for me

until the end when you say

'Come away'

I run to you

no problem too big or too small

in Your infinite wisdom and power

You answer before I call.

Dwell refreshed

Hacked ATM cards and Interesting phone calls...

2009-08-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

I received an interesting phone call tonight.

The story starts several weeks ago while job hunting online. I found a work at home program that seemed legit. I read it several times before I purchsed the $2 information CD. Well, 3 weeks later I have this $50.00 charge show up on my bank account. I called the bank, found out it was this place that had hacked my ATM card and was placing bogus amounts on my account. I immediately closed that ATM card and I have another one on the way. I had to call back the next day because they couldn't open the claim until the amount actually posted. Come to find out, this charge came from Great Britian and so I was charged a "foreign transfer fee" in addition to the other amount.

When I called back, I opened the claim and my great bank has been so helpful through this. So tonight, my phone rang (I thought it was Jimmy calling me, so I answered). The guy started talking and after he said where he was calling from, I didn't say much. He kept trying to get me to agree to "work" for them. I told him I was not interested and that I had found something better ("legal" also...) and just wasn't interested. He was trying to get me to say that I needed help with my "business" that I was starting, but I told him I had all the help I needed within my family. When he again pursued and pressed why I wasn't interested, I told him that when I looked over the information it was just something I wasn't interested in and that when I had a $50 charge show up on my bank account, that just sealed the deal. I also told him I had already taken care of it at the bank and that the charges were reversed...it was then that I heard it...

"Click"

Yep...he had hung up on me. Good ridance.

Moral of the story....stick to legit...Ebay, Overstock.com, Target.com, Etc.

When looking for work...CalJobs (California), OfficeTeam, Monster.com, HotJobs.com, Etc

I've learned my lesson!!!

Dwell refreshed.

Hospital Visits

2009-08-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

My grandmother is in the hospital. She went in on Saturday, 8/8 with chest pains. On Saturday morning, before church, my uncle, the one she lives with, called my mom to say that my grandma had been having chest pains all night.

I gave a prayer request note to my pastor when I arrived at church. At the beginning of the worship service, he announced a couple of urgent prayer requests...my grandmother being one of them. She had came to church and after he told her it was great to have her at church, she announced to the congretation that she was still having chest pains. I went out and found a phone; called my mom and uncle. He drove to the church and picked her up and took her to the hospital. Now, for those of you who don't know my grandmother, she isn't one to do what others want AND she has an extreamly high pain tolerance. She accused my uncle of calling my mom and I told her that he did not, that I was the one who called her...and I called him. I told her, nicely, that she had to go to the hospital. After one childish gesture, she walked out with no problems. She was in that much pain.

Come to find out she had been having chest pains for several days and was waiting for them to be over before she called the doctor. She has been in the hospital since Sat. The doctor's still don't know what is exactly going on with her. On Saturday, they thought a heart attack, but the test were negative; then she was tested for a blood clot in her lungs (she had heart surgery in May, this being the cause of the clot), but the CAT scan they gave her also came back negative for a blood clot. The ER Doctor admitted her to the hospital...she was NOT happy about that, but he and the family didn't give her a choice. He wanted her doctor to look at her.

Dr. Hoff (primary care dr) and her heart doctor both have seen her today and are putting her through a good deal of tests because they can't find what is causing the chest pains. After having a difficult night (called the dr at 4am to get medicine for her), she says that she is doing better tonight. Of course, being in the hospital, she is on pain medicine and oxygen constantly, so that is some of what is helping her pain. The doctors are saying that everything points to a heart attack, but the tests are showing nothing.

Hopefully they will find something quite soon!!!

Daily Verse: Colossians 2:10

2009-08-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

Colossians 2:10

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

complete in Him...what more is there to say?

Dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: I Peter 1:6-9 (1-9)

2009-08-07T00:55:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 1:6-9

6 Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

I studied this passage a while back, verse 6 was the verse I didn't understand. I googled it and found a Wesley sermon on "manifold temptations". I sat down one day with a concordance, dictionary, the sermon and my Bible and this is what I got out of the study:

A) A few facts (verses 1-9)

1) were believers (verses 5, 7, 9)

2) already had peace (verse 2)

3) still had hope (verse 3)

4) had joy unspeakable and full of glory (verse 8)

B) Vocabulary

1) Heaviness:

a) strong sorrow & grief "sunk deep in the soul"; inward affliction

2) Manifold:

a) many in number and many different kinds

C) Possible "manifold temptations"

1) health issues/illnesses

2) poverty

3) death of a loved one

4) unsaved family/friends and those who profess a belief but are living in sin/allowing sin in their life

5) Satan/evil/fiery darts

6) God withdrawing (due to our sin; grieve the Holy Spirit, pride, not doing good, slothfulness, etc)

7) personal reflection (knowledge of our self) of sin in our lives & where we would be without salvation (including inbred sin and total corruption)

D) Conviction of sins (#6 & 7 above)

1) heaviness (in wilderness rejoicing) is different from darkness (total loss of joy, no peace, no love of God, separated from God)

2) is permitted for our own good (verse 7, also 1 Peter 4:12-19)

a) trial of our faith

b) faith is purified

* strengthened

* confirmed

* increased (abundantly)

c) hope is increased (same as faith, above)

d) love is increased

e) rejoice

f) holiness (of)

* heart

* conversation

g) heart purified (from)

> pride

> self-will

> passion

> love of the world

> foolish & hurtful desires

> vile & vain affections

3) Example to others in & through our struggles

a) soul calm & serene in midst of storms

b) sorrowful, yet always rejoicing

c) meekly accepting the will of God (however grievous it may be to us)

d) in loss or want... the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD (Job 1:21b)

Heaviness

in wilderness rejoicing

there sometimes is a need for heaviness in our life (not necessarily for all persons; can be for a season)

vs. Darkness

loss of total joy

no love of/with God

no peace

never a need for darkness

can be fallen into, even after forgiveness of sins

Prayer:

Lord,

As your will permits, heaviness in my life. Teach me to wait upon you without fainting and with peace, hope & joy unspeakable.

Increase my faith through any heaviness I may go through, confirm my hope & perfect me in all holiness.

Purify me, both flesh and spirit.

In your Blessed Name, Amen

Dwell refreshed!

Looking for work

2009-08-05T18:19:00.001-07:00

Today I went to an employment agency (temp agency) and filled out all the paperwork, took the tests in hopes that within a few days/weeks I will be working again. If nothing else I will be doing data entry...the second worst job for me. The first being reception work.

Just because you are good at something doesn't mean that you enjoy doing it. Well, for a paycheck, I'll have to figure something out!!

Daily Verse: Philippians 4:4

2009-08-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice

Joy. An expression of the heart; something no one can take away. It is knowing salvation. It is giving of yourself to those who really need it. It is savoring each moment in your heart; it is knowing that through tribulations we are being changed.

JOY:

J Jesus 1st

O Others 2nd

Y Yourself last

Rejoice today and dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: Psalm 91:4-6

2009-08-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Psalm 91:4-6

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be they shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

When you are afraid these are the verses to go to. It is a promise of His being with us no matter what is going on around us. If you have children, it is a promise that He will care for His own, no matter the time and place.

Dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: Psalm 90:12

2009-08-02T02:43:00.000-07:00

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

How is your wisdom today? Do you apply yourself, knowing that there is limited time on earth? Take some time today to reprioitize your life, put your most important things first and deal with the rest after. Tell the people in your life that you care about them and that you appreciate them. Visit a housebound person, give them a bit of cheer today.

Dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: Psalm 127:3-5; Mark 9:37a

2009-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

Psalm 127:3-5

3 Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

4 As arrows are in the hands of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Mark 9:37a

Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me:

I had other verses chosen, however there was an article in the local news that prompted me to choose these two. There is a father who was convicted this week of torturing his 10 week old daughter. I'll spare the gruesome details, but just reading it made me SICK. How can anyone do such a thing to a child, let alone one that tiny. At first, the doctor's didn't think she would make it, but she is doing fine. He claims he was so drunk that he doesn't even remember the incident. It makes me furious. It is just unbelievable.

If you have children, tell them you love them, today; hug them...if they'll let you. If you are a child, tell your parents.

Quilted Wallets: Crazy night!

2009-07-31T14:44:00.001-07:00

I spent the night working on my quilted wallets that I hope to sell. Out of 4 that I started, I was only able to complete one...the other three, I ran out of thread. Two of the three are complete except for the final binding. The other one is ready to be sewn; all the parts are together and ironed as needed.

So, for 10.5 hours I only have this one done:

Evening/Dusk/Sundown

2009-07-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

My favorite time of the day is at sundown/dusk. It is a peaceful time for me; I especially enjoy getting outside (spring/summer/autumn) and just walking as the sun is going down and into the dusk there after.

Sunsets are a blessing each day; each one is different.

Tonight, the moon is about half full and shining brightly amid the blues, purples, pinks and oranges of the sundown. Seeing the palm trees outlined against the dusk sky was another sight I observed tonight (see example picture below). Last night it was a momma duck with her little chicklets (10 of them), floating along in the irrigation canal.

It is a fitting end to each day, my being privileged to walk at dusk each day.

Dwell refreshed.

Daily Verse: Psalm 91:1-2

2009-07-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

Psalm 91:1-2

1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Learning to trust is a difficulty for me. Learning to trust the Lord is included, but I have found that as I keep my eyes on Him, it is much easier then just attempting to do it on my own.

How is your trust?

Where do you go to hide?

Dwell Refreshed today!

Daily Verse: Psalm 90:1-2

2009-07-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

Psalm 90:1-2

1 Lord, thou has been our dwelling place in all generations.

2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.

I hear this verse often on the radio station I listen to...it is the intro to their Bible reading fellowship program. Each time I hear it, my soul just rejoices, so I wanted to share it with you.

Dwell refreshed.

Tuscan Honey

2009-07-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

I found this hand cream the other day at the Haggin Musuem in Stockton, CA. It is delightful! Just had to pass the link on (click on title above).

Dwell refreshed.

Life of the Unemployed

2009-07-28T23:16:00.000-07:00

Today I took my grandmother to the doctor. Then we went to lunch with my uncle, his office manager and her son, who works there also, and a friend. We went to China King Buffet, one of my youngest brother's favorite restaurants. I then dropped off two job applications, Joann's Fabrics and Dress Barn, which is the job I hope I get. No the waiting begins...will I hear from either place? Will I get a job? Will I have to stand on my head and beg? Well, I guess that is going too far, BUT I really hate the waiting.

During this time of unemployment, I promised myself that I would accomplish everything that I couldn't do while working...of course, I didn't. However, I have been reevaluating my life and how I spend my time and I have been making an effort to do more of the things I want to accomplish. I started making an effort to be more aware of what I am eating and working at not having as much of the junk as before. I am also working on my crafts more, as space allows. Next week I am hoping to start & finish going through some of my things in storage, reorganize and maybe get rid of some things.

Today I accomplished one more goal...start walking/exercising more. I walked and I did some weight training. I feel so much better for it, physically. Tomorrow I will probably hurt more, but am thrilled to be motivated to be moving.

Dwell refreshed!

Spent an afternoon with my mother

2009-07-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

I spent this afternoon with my mother, shopping. She was buying me a blouse or dress for my birthday. It took a month, but we were finally able to go. We went to several stores and at one we found two shirts. I'll post pictures later. At another store, we found more clothing that we both liked. She purchased a skirt that she will be wearing in a friend's wedding. I also found someplace that is hiring, picked up an application and tomorrow I am returning it to hopefully have a job!

It was such a lovely afternoon!

Meet Whiskers

2009-07-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

We have two cats at our house. Spitz (Joe's cat) and Whiskers. We have had both cats about 13 years, but Whiskers is about 14 yrs old, Spitz 13.

Whiskers is named because of her white whiskers. When she arrived 13 years ago, she was scared of everyone and everything. When she showed up at the back door, we got a kick out of her reaching her paw up into the cup with food in it and taking some out to eat. She realized that this was a place for food and she stuck around. She used to eat lots of birds and moths, but not so much any more. She has decided she likes to be a house and lap cat and most of the time she can be found indoors.

This morning she climbed up on me to sleep. Since I was cold, I was glad to have the warmth. She likes to be up on our laps when we are sitting in the recliner. She will even meow at my dad, if he doesn't sit down fast enough for her.

She is still skitterish some, but is doing so much better. She doesn't like to be picked up and held, but I am working on that.

It is said that cats will bring their owners presents. Thankfully she hasn't brought a mouse. She has brought a large moth to my mother and myself. She plopped it down on the floor and looked up at us expectantly..."see what I brought you..." We had a time catching the moth to get it back outside.

Life has been an adventure with Whiskers. I just thought you'd like to meet her.

She just doesn't like her picture taken...

Sitting on her favorite chair

Spitz, Joe's cat

Daily Verse: Isaiah 43:24

2009-07-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

Thou hast bought me no sweet cane with money, neither hast thou filled me with the fat of thy sacrifices: but thou hast made me to serve with thy sins, thou hast wearied me with thine iniquities.

What are the "fat of thy sacrifices" that you have not given over to the Lord? What dreams and desires has he requested of you to give back to Him. Do you continually take them back?

What are the sins/iniquities that you have made Him to "be satisfied/wearied" with?

Take some time to reflect today, give your desires/dreams to Him, plead for forgiveness from Him.

Dwell refreshed today.

Attributes: Presence

2009-07-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

Presence

He is near; He is touchable. No matter what our struggles and joys are, He is there. He is able to keep us from falling; He will present us faultless (Jude 24).

We are refreshed at/in His presence (Acts 13:19b). He created nature & fellowship with others as times of refreshing. When did you last spend time in His presence? His presence is everywhere (Psa. 139:7). Every moment in our lives is in His presence. Are we spending our times in His presence failing or growing? We are to dwell in His presence with praise & trembling (Psalm 140:13; 95:1-3: 100:1-2; 114:7-8; Ezekel 38:20).

Rejoice for He is in the presence of God, for us! When He comes, our presence with Him will be cause for celebration. If we do not know Him or if we refuse Him, His presence will bring punishment...everlasting destruction from His presence & glory (Hebrews 9:24; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-9).

Acknowledge His presence & dwell refreshed today.

50lbs in 90 days (start July 27)

2009-07-26T23:32:00.000-07:00

Pre-Challenge: I really need to do this, to get my eating habits and weight under control. I have requested Joe, Bryan and Tammy join me in the, for moral support since all three are also wanting to do this. Whether they join or not, it is up to me to take on the challenge for myself. Go me!!

Why

2009-07-26T21:54:00.000-07:00

I just took a little trip to the local convenience store. While sitting in the car, a young male (late teens, early 20's) stepped out of the car next to me. He proceeded to pull up his pants, then he pulled his shirt down and then he tugged his pants down a little. WHY?

I just can't imagine why people walk around with their clothing around their necks and ankles. Do they think it looks good. Well, it doesn't. It just looks horrid.

2009-07-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

In the past 365 days, I have been unemployed for over half. It is no piece of cake...it gets OLD...FAST!

I have decided to blog my catch 22 boring life. For no other reason that I have nothing else to do.