Pearls of Wisdom

Faith Lifts Friday ~ July 27, 2007

2007-07-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

“Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.” (Psalm 36:5)

“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto Thy name, O most High:
“To shew forth Thy loving kindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness every night.”
(Psalm 92:1-2)

We never know why God has us cross path with the people that he does, or how we might effect their lives or they ours until sometimes much later. As a member of Gods precious children it is our honor to help others, minister to their needs, give grace and share our faith as others will with us.

Being prayer warriors for others, looking to God and not the problem and being a true friend are the keys to a joyous life in the Lord. Jesus has given us such a gift of love it is so wonderful to pass it on in his name.

I have had the joy this past few weeks to share my faith with a new friend to Christ and help her set up her prayer journal which was such an honor. I love doing my daily devotions and prayer journal and going back through the pages later and seeing how God has been there for me everyday of my journey with him. This verse has always been in all my journals and gives me such peace.

“Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9)

Have faith and be blessed in love of the Lord this week and always my friends.

Thank you to Sheryl of Taking the Challenge for Faith Lifts Fridays this is so lovely.

In his endless love,

Life On Cloud Nine with Angel Mama ~ July 27,2007

2007-07-27T11:05:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

As you go about your days may the Lord be praised.

I would ask for your prayers as my family has had a wonderful opportunity presented to us and we are praying about it.

I am sorry I have been on and off the past few days. I have been helping our children finish up their art projects with friends, cleaning my studio and office...(.Oh bother as Winnie the Pooh would say), and helping a dear friend . For all you moms, grandmas, aunts, parents ( well you get the picture ) you will know what I mean. I so love you all , our "conversations", emails, friendships, posts and life because...as a Mom I have found that I have been so busy lately and my mind on so many things , taking care of my son and helping my friend Mary with her twins yes you know the ones....remember the mall and bathroom incident ,that when someone asks:

"What is your name? " I find my self ready to respond: "My name is Ned ....I don't like my little bed".....yes Dr. Seuss ( good guess)

Or if a friend asks before an art project "Do you have everything"? My answer lets check backpack, where is map? or lets go to our thinking chair ( yes Dora and Blues clues good guess)

Or lately when my friend Mary panics over the twins and moans" what are we going to do?" Lets call the rescue heroes or better yet Christopher Robin will know what to do....

Or when my husband or son asks about the grocery list: I find myself saying don't forget the Oatmeal Bert....like Ernie and Bert's big shopping trip.

Can you tell we read and collect lots of books in our house ? I am so glad Lauren sent me an adult Christian one to read right now.... By the way my husband and I love Max Lucado , how about you all?

Though I can in real emergencies think clearly. Well at least after a panic call to my husband and realizing that a plumber would cost a fortune ... and that advice of putting medimucil down the toilet would probably not be a good idea. The solution of a toilet tool and a brave teenager would solve the problem of the twins trying to teach army men to swim.

So yes I miss you all , will be by to visit and catch up, appreciate all your friendships will be back to you all. I am also helping get ready for a big charity drive of school supplies, backpacks and suitcases ( those go to foster children who have none ) to kids in need. If you would like to do something similar, this time of year is great to pick up supplies at a low cost. You can see if your local school district, museums , churches etc participate in distribution to the children in need. We are also helping with relay for life , as my friend Bea has a team. We have had pink shirts with wings made up and are Bea's angels.

May you all enjoy your day with the Lord and be blessed with his love today and always.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama in the Kitchen~ Apple Pizza Dessert

2007-07-27T10:57:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

We had a casual dinner for a few of the kids friends and parents after they finished an art project the other day and made this for dessert. I Thought I would share as you might want to try. I am sorry I can't remember where we got the recipe over the years or I would give credit but has served us well.

APPLE PIZZA DESSERT

Pastry for a single crust pie
2/3 cup sugar raw sugar
3 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
4-5 medium apples, peeled and sliced 1/2” thick
TOPPING:
1/2 cup flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup butter or softened

Roll out pastry to fit a 12-inch pizza pan; pinch or flute edges of
pastry. Combine sugar, flour and cinnamon in a bowl; add apples and lemon juice
mixing together well. Arrange apple slices in a single layer over
pastry in a circular pattern to completely cover pastry. Combine the
first five topping ingredients in a bowl; mix well and sprinkle over
apples. Bake at 350º for 35 to 40 minutes or until apples are
tender.

Optional :Top with homemade or store bought vanilla ice cream or yogurt .

Angel Mama in the Kitchen~ Iced Espresso- Almond Latte

2007-07-27T10:43:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

You have to try this lovely iced coffee recipe. I make it in the summer quite a bit especially when friends come over to chat or do art.

Iced Espresso- Almond Latte

2 cups plus 1 teaspoon finely ground espresso coffee beans

3 cups of water

3 tablespoons golden raw sugar ( or you can use brown sugar)

1 1/2 cups whole milk

5 teaspoons almond syrup ( such as Torani)

Ice cubes

Espresso cream ( optional and I will include recipe)

Fill coffee filter or basket or coffeemaker with 1 cup ground espresso beans. Add 11/2 cups water to coffee maker and brew. Pour coffee into bowl. Repeat with 1 cup espresso beans and remaining 11/2 cups water to make total 2 cups coffee. Mix in sugar, then milk and almond syrup. Refrigerate mixture until cold, at least two hours or overnight.

Fill 6 glasses with ice. Divide coffee mixture among glasses. Top each with whipped cream. Sprinkle with remaining 1 teaspoon ground espresso beans.

Recipe source: Bon Appetit June 1999.

Espresso Whipped Cream

Makes 2 cups

1 cup chilled whipping cream
2 tablespoons golden brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

Beat all ingredients in a bowl.

Recipe Source: Bon Appetit June 1999.

Bloggin Princess Award~ Oh Happy Day

2007-07-25T10:17:00.000-05:00

For WW Please Scroll down thanks.

Dear Friends,

My friend Laurel of Laurel Wreath Reflections has bestowed me with the Bloggin Princess Award.

As I am a mama in house of just boys and my husband now they say that truly fits. ..LOL Thank you so much Laurel it was such an honor. It was especially an honor coming from Laurel as she is one of the first I asked for advice for my blog and she was so kind. She is truly a Princess of God , great mother, daughter, wife and friend.

On a side note I do have to say I love shoes and when I saw her pink sneakers on vacation well I knew not only did I want a pair but they we were alike.

This is what Laurel said about me:

Angel at Pearls of Wisdom is a blogging Princess because of the encouragement she gives to me every day. She has such a sweet heart and it shows through.

The most wonderful thing of being a Christian women of God we are all Princess of God, as daughters of the King.

I Timothy 6:15

He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords.

Romans 8: 16-17

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

The Rules are:

Pass it on to any 3 people who you think is a bloggin' princess!
Tell why you think that person is a bloggin' princess and make sure you let them know!

I bestow this award on to:

Denise of Shorty Bears Place. Denise is a true friend and sister in Christ. She is an uplifting , kind , loving woman . Plus I have a secret she adopted me as a sister and friend. I love her , her blog, comments and posts dearly.

Melanie of Our Happy Happenings. Melanie has such love for her family and it shows through all her posts. Her comments are so sweet and she takes the time to make people feel welcome at her blog and the blogging community.

Janine of Our story . Janine is always finding ways to take care of her family through their allergies and is a fun , sweet caring person. She uplifts others with her comments and posts and is such a lovely example of a Gods Princess.

Enjoy your award and tiaras my sweet friends.

Wordless Wednesday ~ July 25, 2007

2007-07-24T14:12:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends ,

Happy WW!

For Recipe Scroll Down!

Thank you all for stopping by and your lovely comments!

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. toni
2. Isabelle aka Tricotine
3. And Miles To Go...
4. CableGirl
5. mamajuliana
6. Crystal - God is in Control...Not ME!
7. SandyCarlson
8. mrs wibbs
9. Comedy Plus
10. Where Your Treasures Are
11. Addie
12. JennieBoo
13. Mark Caldwell
14. Pinks & Blues Girls
15. aldon @ Orient Lodge
16. Nesting momma
17. Katya
18. connie
19. Angel
20. Rebecca of Sunnybrook
21. Janine @ Moving Mama

22. The Birds & The Beads
23. The Twinkies
24. Rachelle
25. patois
26. JHS
27. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
28. karen (miscmum)
29. Pam
30. Thea @ I\'m a Drama Mama
31. The Small Scribbler
32. palmtreefanatic
33. Debbie
34. Gattina
35. Holly Schwendiman
36. Jim
37. Dariana
38. Nancy Brown
39. Tammi
40. Diana\'s Twins
41. mousey
42. anyhow

43. Twyla
44. cathy
45. jenn in holland
46. Julie
47. allhisblessings
48. allhisblessings
49. Chocolate and Coffee
50. Sherry (Redbud)
51. chupieandjsmama
52. Our Happy Happenings
53. Mayogi
54. Annie
55. BeccA\'s Buzz
56. Barbara H.
57. mama k
58. Dawn
59. Donetta
60. Denise @ Blissful Life
61. Devildogwife
62. Twisted Cinderella

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Fruit Granita Recipe

2007-07-24T14:11:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends,

Granita's are lovely fruit slushes ( fruit flavored ices) originating from Italy. I use to always have these when I was little. The area I grew up in New York had a little Italy. Here is one of the recipes that my husband and I make for our family during the summer.

Watermelon Granita

1 to 1/3 cup of sugar we use raw
2 cinnamon sticks
1 1/4 cups of water
1 1/2 to 2 pounds of watermelon ( not the rind)
juice of 1 lemon don't use lemon juice
mint springs to decorate ( optional)

Put sugar and cinnamon sticks in pan with sugar and 1 1/4 cups water. Stir over gentle heat until sugar has dissolved, bring to a boil and boil for one minute. Allow to cool completely, then remove, wash and dry cinnamon sticks.

Put the watermelon flesh through a moulilegumes ( or strainer or mash) then sieve to remove the seeds. Mix watermelon pulp with the cold syrup, adding the lemon juice to taste, then chill in the refrigerator. Pour into a shallow container to a depth of 3/4 inches. Cover and freeze for 1 hour until the liquid has formed an ice rim around the edge and is starting to freeze at the base.

Scrape this away with a fork and mash evenly with remaining liquid. repeat every 30 minutes until the mixture forms a consistency of ice crystals. Serve a mounded high in a chilled glass ( frosted in the refrigerator) we also freeze ours in paper cups for later use.

Enjoy the La dolce vita ( the sweet life)

Thanks for your comment: Denise, NestingMomma,
Kate
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The Perfect Day~Summer Days on Cloud Nine~

2007-07-24T09:50:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends,

"For memory has painted this perfect day with colors that never fade."
Carrie Jacobs Bond

The last few days have been so busy. I am excited to now have time to get around to you all and catch up with your latest.

Life in our house is all about celebrating. Whenever and however we can. Each day brings with it some joy . My husband planned a surprise for me on Friday and took the day off.

We had such a lovely day together. I even drove around in my French straw hat in our little convertible we bring out only in the summer. It is so small and cute we love running around in it, we did errands and came home to a lovely dinner of Prime rib, strawberry salad and French silk pie.

I got the prime rib on sale last January and loved pulling it out to surprise him, like he surprised me.

I finally hosted my tea party of Celebration in July. We made charm bracelets and one of a kind greeting cards. I was able to order German glitter to put on the cards and they turned out lovely.

Then at the last minute my friend Mary asked if we could make tile benches next week so we are getting the materials together . It is really easy and once you make your wooden form which my husband made me a long time ago and her husband is making her one), get your concrete you mix in a wheel barrow etc. it isn't as hard as it sounds. But does take experimenting ...LOL Needless to say I am so glad we made the flower tent as my workshop is now a mess. Did I tell you my workshop is a mess?...LOL We have really enjoyed the summer though. I am going to be making about 15 pounds of soap in the next few weeks and have been drying my lavender to go in it.

I am getting ready for a big baking and cooking session again and have been asked details so give me a few days and will post recipes etc a long with the recipe for tuxedo brownies, and Oreo cookies.

I have a friend that has been making drastic wonderful changes in her life and I am helping her with her home management binder, OAMC, bulk buying and her gratitude journal. We have rearranged her house in the last week and it looks lovely. She really wants to get her budget in order if any of you have any hints we would appreciate .

I did make some of Grandmothers blackberry juice and preserves. How lovely.

I hope your life has been full of joy these past few days and I look forward to sharing in it with you when I get to your blogs.

I want to Thank Laurel of Laurel Wreaths for the Lovely Princess Award, Janeen for the Blogger award and Melanie you are all so sweet and they mean so much and I will enjoy passing them forward.

In his endless love,

Thank you for your comment: Melanie, Penquinsandladybugs, Bridget, Denise

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Having the Faith ~ Faith Lift Friday

2007-07-20T09:09:00.001-05:00

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1 KJV

Dear Friends,

I have decided to post a Faith Lifts Friday and dedicate it to my Dear Friend Mabel
as most of you know she is going through some treatments at City of Hope. Mabel and I have had plenty of talks over the years about being a volunteer of God's army and not a sick person of the other guy...LOL

We had packaged up cheer up nickels for her to pass out for the fountain there, and just recently my friend Mary Kate and I made scripture kits that you can read about here.

Realizing the ultimate gift we have in our lives is the love of the Lord and his compass and guide for our lives the Bible. Any situation , need , or answer we need is there as well as his grace, love, mercy. We must have the faith though to believe .

For truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, "Move from here to there" and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you.
Matthew 17:20

As believers we are to look up to the Lord and not the problem. Keeping our focus on him keeps out the confusion and our paths become clearer. Sometimes we never know why we are going through a situation until later in life, or why God might not give us the things we think we need or want. If we pray for his love, protection, mercy and grace we must trust that he has already given it and trust that he only has our best interests at heart. God always uses all to his greater good and from whatever we learn or do we must give him the glory.

In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be put into confusion.
Psalm 71:1 KJV

There might even be times you will see others crossing bridges in their lives, health, marriages , or spiritual life that you have crossed and God will use you as an instrument to help others.

Be of strong faith and help others as God will put others in your path to help you.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23:6 KJV

May the Lord bless you today and always fellow Queens as you go about your day.

Thank you to Sheryl of Taking the Challenge for Faith Lifts Fridays this is so lovely.

In his endless love,

Thank you for your comments: Annie, Sheryl, Kc, Talk..to..Grams, Denise, Debbie
Connie, Amber, Akelamalu, Susan, LooneyMom, Groovyoldlady, Melanie

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Thankful Thursday~ Scripture Kits~ July 19, 2007

2007-07-18T22:16:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Philippians 4:6 KJV

I am so grateful for my wonderful family, silver linings, wonderful opportunities , great fantastic friends , inspirational blogs, and chocolate tuxedo brownies.

I am so grateful for each of your wonderful blogs I will visit, your comments and the chance to express our blessings and gratitude.

I have enjoyed working at VBS , taking my kids to the library and parks and having sweet memories and conversations with them.

I am grateful my friend Denise keeping my spirits up.Please keep her in your prayers as her surgery is coming up.

I am grateful for Janeen of Our Story ,giving me the Blogger reflection award. Thanks Janeen your sweet comments warmed my heart.

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." -Albert Schweitzer

When my dear friend Mary K. came over with her family we made some Scripture Survival Kits. I know there are many different ones out there . Here is the ones we made up and are sending to my friend to give out at City of Hope.

The Lord's Scripture Survival Kit

This is what we included:
Mint
Candy Kiss
Tea Bag
Eraser
Rubber Band
Toothpick
Chewing Gum
Band Aid
Pencil

TOOTHPICK - to! remind you to pick out the good qualities in others. -
Matthew 7:1

RUBBER BAND - to remind you to be flexible. Things might not always go the way you want, but it will work out. -
Romans 8:28

BAND AID - to remind you to heal hurt feelings, yours or someone else's. -
Colossians 3:12-14

PENCIL - to remind you to list your blessings everyday. -
Ephesians 1:3

ERASER - To remind you that everyone makes mistakes, and it's okay. -
Genesis 50:15-21

CHEWING GUM - to remind you to stick with it, and you can accomplish anything. -
Philippians 4:13

MINT - to remind you that you are worth a mint. -
John 3:16-17

CANDY KISS - to remind you that everyone needs a kiss or a hug everyday. -
John 4:7

TEA BAG - to remind you to relax daily and go over your list of blessings. -
1 Thessalonians 5:18

May your week be filled with joy, laughter, blessings and chocolate.

Thank you to Laurel for hosting this week, while sweet Iris is on a blogging break.

In his endless love,

Thank you for your comments:Maiylah, Denise, HopefulSpirit, Lynn, Karen, Kim, Mary, Sharon, LoriB, Diane, Lynnae, Talktograms, Angie, Debbie, ChupieandJ'smama, Dana, Darla, Amber, Tarrah, Bridget, Terri, Connie Barris, Laurel Wreath, Rachelle, Sheri, Melanie, GroovyoldLady

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Wordless Wednesday~ July 18,2007

2007-07-17T15:25:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Happy WW. Explanation in first comment.
Thank you all for your lovely comments.

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. busy
2. mamajuliana
3. Tiany
4. jams o donnell
5. SandyCarlson
6. Donetta
7. mrs wibbs
8. And Miles To Go...
9. CableGirl
10. Alison
11. Alycia @ Where Your Treasures Are
12. Mark Caldwell
13. Melissa@BananaMigraine
14. Jim
15. Comedy Plus
16. burntofferings
17. bounce
18. L.L. Barkat
19. Our Happy Happenings
20. MorningSong
21. Pam
22. aldon @ orient lodge
23. skittles
24. letha
25. Expat Mom
26. Gliding through motherhood
27. Chris

28. Moving Mama
29. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
30. Isabelle aka Tricotine
31. Christine- Fruit in Season
32. qtpies7
33. Simone\'s Butterfly
34. Devildogwife
35. maiylah
36. Pann
37. Crazy Working Mom
38. Rachelle
39. Gattina
40. The Birds & The Beads
41. Starrlight
42. karen (miscmum)
43. Tammy and Parker
44. Denise @ Blissful Life
45. allhisblessings
46. anyhow
47. connie
48. Annie
49. Brian
50. chupieandjsmama
51. Lori
52. Lazy Daisy
53. Addie
54. Chocolate and Coffee

55. Dawn :)
56. Laura
57. mousey
58. Carrie\'s Crafty Cottage
59. mags
60. JennieBoo
61. Monkey Giggles
62. Barbara H.
63. Your Friendly Webmama
64. elizabeth
65. Tammy Gale
66. love, laughter & laundry
67. real women scrap
68. Nancy Brown
69. Sherry
70. Diana\'s Twins
71. Diana\'s Twins
72. dawnae
73. Thea @ I\'m a Drama Mama
74. Judi
75. Gaby
76. JHS
77. My Twenty Cents Keeps Moving
78. Hopeful Spirit
79. Nesting Momma

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Life with Angel Mama on Cloud Nine~ July 2007

2007-07-17T12:31:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

We have been having thunderstorms here so my time on here today will be limited. I hope you all have a lovely day and will catch up later. I have decided to use the time to get the tomatoes I bought and picked from the yard into some sauce, ,marinated and dried. I put one of the recipes I love on here and hope you all like it. I am making a roasted chicken , roasted potatoes , fresh tomato salad and blueberry crumble for dinner. We have my friend Mary M and her family from church coming for dinner. Our kids are all about the same age which will be nice.

I have still been doing my daily walks and devotion time real early before I start my day. I met a few friends this morning as we hoped to get a walk in before the rain started again but no such luck...LOL I have to be over to the library this afternoon for Sir. N. summer reading program. So I will try to find some more great summer reading books.

I will check in with you later . Enjoy your day my friends and may it be filled with joy and love.

In his endless love,

Thank you for your sweet comments: Tiany, Donetta, Denise, Suzanne, LindaF, Mrs Wibbs,

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Angel Mama In The Kitchen~ Fresh Tomato Salad

2007-07-17T12:24:00.000-05:00

Our family loves fresh tomatoes. They are such a treat. At our local farmers market we have a vendor who has become my favorite over the years. He has organic yellow salad cherry tomatoes that are divine. I bought many different kinds this weekend as well as all that have come in from our garden and am making oven provencal roasted sauce, drying tomatoes,etc. If have tomatoes to use up here is a great salad recipe.

Here is a recipe adapted from Paula Deens I have used over the years for a delightful salad.

Fresh Tomato Salad

3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
3/4 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
sprinkle of rosemary
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
2 to 3 green onions, chopped
4 to 6 large tomatoes, chopped or cut in wedges.

Combine all ingredients, except tomatoes, in a large measuring cup or mixing bowl. Whisk well. Place tomatoes in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over. Marinate at room temperature for up to 2 hours, turning the bag occasionally.

Thank you for your sweet comments :Denise, ChupieandJ'smama,
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Funny Moments of Motherhood

2007-07-17T11:39:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

Thought you would enjoy this video. Please turn off the music on the sidebar, before you click to listen.

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Thanks for your comments: Donetta, Denise, Rosemarie, Diana, Amber

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Marriage Monday~ 30 Day Challenge

2007-07-16T08:33:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook."

William James

I remember a special teacher and dear friend of mine's favorite saying "don't play tiddly winks with manhole covers". Of course any of us within hearing distance would always laugh and go about our day. But is has made me realize to pick and choose my battles and try not to make things bigger then what they are. To try to be loving and kind as sometimes you can say you are sorry but once the words are said they hurt.

It made me think of the joke I have heard different versions of over the years:

They had shared everything. They had talked about everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about. For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover. In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside. She agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $25,000. He asked her about the contents.

"When we were to be married," she said, "my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and crochet a doll."

The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with happiness.

"Honey," he said, "that explains the dolls, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?"
"Oh," she said, "that's the money I made from selling the dolls.

Joke : Source : Anonymous and credit my good friend Bee who sends all these to us in email over the years.

I love my husband dearly as you all do and have had a project that is very important to him , with deadlines of course, that we have been doing. So things have gotten frustrating at times and well you all know how that goes. So this week and month I will concentrate on the good and the happiness life brings and try to bring him joy. Though it has been tough the last few days...LOL But you do know I produce dolls right? All laughs aside I do produce dolls and love them and my family but need humor to get through some days. The dolls we produce go to charity for children in violent situations.

My fellow Queens of the castles I pray that your days are filled with joy , laughter, Chocolate, love and joy. I will be praying for you marriages, enjoy gleaning from your posts, visiting your blogs and seeing you soon. I apologize I haven't written for a few days and will be around later to visit as I have appointments all morning.

Thank you for your visits and comments they mean so much. May the Lord Bless you and your marriages this week and always.

Thank you Christine for hosting . I love learning from you all.

Thanks for the lovely comments, Kate, Denise, Sheri, Lynn, Heather, Becky, Connie, Melanie, Pia, Amy, Maggie, Debbie, Denita, Blackpurl, Christine, Donetta, Rosemarie

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Love ,

Life On Cloud Nine With Angel Mama ~ Memories Hang Like Silken Chords

2007-07-13T09:17:00.000-05:00

If I take the wings
of the morning
and settle at
the furthest limits of the sea
Even there your hand
shall lead me
and your right hand
shall hold me fast
(Ps. 139:9-10)

Dear Friends,

I hope you all enjoy your precious time with your families this weekend while the weather is warm:) I remember being told as a child that memories hang like silken cords between heaven and earth. That they rise in dream like sequences, with scenes from our past. That best thoughts and memories will always remain bright while others fade away.

I remember sitting on the beach with my children and watching the waves roar, making smore parties, and flying kites. Whale watching , catching crabs and salmon trips are all my boys favorites. I have precious candy like jewels my husband has given my in jars on my kitchen window. Yes they are glorious beach glass. Oh I have loved combing the beach each one that I found prettier then the other.I have jars and shadow boxes filled with shells and glass. My husband proposed to me on glass beach and it is my favorite place . I know some of you have read my beach proposal post already...LOL

I have a confession to make. When I first met my sweet husband a native of California he was so sweet . Yes dear friends he was. He indulged me when coming to New York to visit me in touring my one winery. Oh I was so proud of taking him there not realizing he drove past grape vines everyday..LOL I brought high heel hiking boots to visit him for hiking the mountains....Ok ..ok I was a NY gal. Well and speaking of the beach the first time I went I had my bathing suit etc. not realzing that it would be cold so I had a skirt etc. well there was one other person dressed like me and freezing too he was from Buffalo. He has said those are the things that endeared me to him.

I hope you all have golden chords of memories. While my children are growing I want to tie those memories with special love knots daily. I try to cook them home cooked meals and their favorite recipes, write special notes and put them on their pillows, take them out to special places. I think this weekend after we get everything cooked in bulk for my husbands meals for the week we are going to the Lake. Paddles boats, feeding the ducks, and smore parties are in order.

In getting to know me dear blogging readers and friends, Yes for some who have asked I have four children am married to my wonderful husband who is my best friend also known as Angel Daddy. I will explain to you how my husband actually acquired the nickname . It is a very good reason . I love my children dearly and they are the light of my life.

I love my friends dearly and have a Queen of hearts club and will have an internet chapter. Oh won't you join? I so love getting to know you . Well if you lived near by you would have to have tea , wear silly hats at times and go to retreats. My friends and I all enjoyed that immensely before I moved. I do have a small one here also. I keep in touch with all my members from California and at times we go to the beach together. Speaking of beach glass I have used some with pearls over the years to make our signature bracelets. I'll tell you what they mean sometime. If you are still here...Is this thing working ? Anyone out there...Just kidding.I truly appreciate you all. Will have the information for you later.

I am going to finish everything here and go sit in the rose garden with fragrances that tantalize my senses. I will post the recipe for Rose Granita that I made for my friendship tea .

Until later my friends enjoy the sweet life. May the Lord bless you this week and always.

Thank you for commenting Heather, Melanie, Rosemarie, Denise, Talk to Grams, Debbie, Connie, Amber, Misty, thefreelancecynic, Susan, Barb, Janeen
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A Wonderful Honor ~ The Fruit of the Spirit Award

2007-07-12T19:53:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends ,

I am so humbled and honored Trish over at An Ordinary Life Artist sent me notice that someone nominated me as a blogger who displayed the fruits of the Spirit in my writings. This means so much to me. Thank you to the person who nominated me. I really appreciate what she and her committee based their award on:

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul wrote about the fruit of the Spirit ~ love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The Fruit of the Spirit graphic was developed in an effort to recognize bloggers whose writings and postings in the blogosphere give us a glimpse of this fruit in their lives.*** (an excerpt from Trish's site.)

I am so humbled and honored to read about the love for the Lord that so many of you have in your lives. I enjoy reading , praying with you and gleaning from some of the wonderful testimonies of faith you have written of. I have enjoyed getting to know your families and peeking into your lives. Thank you for taking time out of your day to visit me, your comments mean so much. Please feel free to contact me if you need me or prayers.I have seen prayer warriors, laughter through tears and faith as God works in all our lives.. It is so wonderful to encourage, motivate, lead and assist others to Christ.We as believers never know how the Lord might use our trials , the way we handle them or ourselves, or our testimonies to lead others to the Lord. He is so wonderful loving and caring his love is everlasting .

I give all the Glory to the Lord for all that is in my life and what I do. I hope this blog has blessed you and if it has it is from Lord who is the center of my life.

John 13:15 says , " I have set an example that you should do as I have done for you."

Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower:the righteous run to it and are safe."

Philippians's 4:13" I can do all through Christ who strengthened me." This verse is our family favorite and life verse.

Thank you again . May the Lord bless you today and always.

Thank you for your sweet comments they mean a lot Deidre, Debbie, Amber, Angie, ChupieandJ'smama, Rosemarie, Denise

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Christian Family Life~ Humor ~ Thankful Thursday

2007-07-11T23:45:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I am so thankful for the Lords unconditional love, and grace, my family and wonderful friends. I am so thankful for pools, smoothies and ice machines in the heat and the sound of laughter. Ok speaking heart to heart on laughter this is serious folks... my friend Lee asked why I haven't blogged about her?

Like she pointed out I did blab as she put it about my other friends but not her. Well I hope you don't mind.. but had to tell you I am so grateful for friends that are different then us, that stand up for us , make us proud and well put smiles on our faces. About my friend Lee .Once upon a time.. is anyone there ? Well dear friends one day Lee had a beautiful birthday party for her daughter at the park . You know the kind with all the balloons , games , prizes the works. I am here to tell you it was quite lovely. But....she went the extra mile and had everyone under the sun invited. I was assigned head chauffeur and picked up some of the kids and brought some home. After a hectic day and well quite frankly a headache . I loaded up the charges in my van, so did Sue, Jen and well you get the picture. So I drop off all the kids I knew , had little chats with moms and dads as we pulled in their driveways ,and set to go home with my children. When I realize I have one child left. "Um who are you and where do you live?" I found myself asking trying not to panic and quite proud of myself.

"For 25.00 I will tell you" comes the reply ..

Whatttt.... Well I drive as fast as a van will drive at the time and make it back to the park where Lee is cleaning up. I present her with my problem and she says "well where did you get her"?

Well Mary Sunshine where do you think? The dollar store? So we both turn to this little pleasant child and she tells us its now 30.00. Well Lee tells her she is not going to stand for this, gets a real mean mom face when all I could do was want to cry and bemoan my situation to anyone at the park who would listen and tells the girl she is marching her to the police . Well the girl gave the info Lee marched her to the door without my 30.00 I might add and has been my hero ever since. By the way if there is anyone left forgot to tell you she was a little girl who lived near the park ( was not invited to the party) and is probably a negotiator today.

Thank goodness this happened years ago or you know where I would be .

May the Lord bless you with laughter and love this week. Thank you for visiting.

Thank you Iris for hosting.

In his endless love,
Angel Mama():)

Thank you for your gracious comments Denise, Debbie, Iris, Gloria, Amy, Anyhow, Kim, Dana, ChupieandJ'smama, Connie, Laurel, Sharon, Lisa, Lyndy, Nise, Melanie, LoriB, HopefulSpirit, Brenda , Beth

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Blogger Reflection Award

2007-07-11T18:17:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends ,

Denise of Shorty Bears Place literally made me cry when she gave me this award as I have been through a lot lately. It means so much to me and I am humbled and honored. I know that all honor and Glory go to God for the things we do in life so if this blog has touched or helped any of you in any way it is to the honor of the Lord that I strive daily. I am so grateful to have him in my life and the unconditional love and joy he gives me. I am also so grateful to the wonderful blogging friends I have met. I love visiting your blogs, getting to know you and your families , lives, struggles and joy. I love praying with and for you all. I have really appreciated Denise giving me this award and took my time to reflect on it and all of you.

Here is what Denise said about me that made me cry:
Angel at http://www.angelslisteningheart.blogspot.com/ ,This lady truly has wings, she has grown to be my personal angel send. Her blog encourages my heart and soul each day. She can make me laugh, and then make me cry with her great love for Jesus.

I know Denise has already received this award but I wanted to honor her with this post. She is such a caring ,loving and kind individual. She loves to find the joy and the Lords presence in everyday of her life. She has uplifted me and helped me and I really appreciate her kindness and Love for the Lord. She deserves so many awards and I did nominate her for one recently..LOL :) because I love her .

"...this award should make you reflect on five bloggers who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted you in some way, and have been a Godly example to you. Five Bloggers who when you reflect on them you get a sense of pride and joy... of knowing them and being blessed by them."

"This award is for the best-of-the-best so consider who you pick, carefully. This award should not be given to just anyone. If you're going to do the award don't just write a few words and slap it on your blog. Write real thoughts about these bloggers and what they've meant to you. If the bloggers you pick have already been given the award, don't be afraid to give it to them again. They deserve it as many times as it's given."

This award was originally created by home schooler Jocelyn Dixon of ~*~Lothlorien, Realm of the Lady of Light

Rules of participating:
1. Create a post in which you reflect and list five bloggers and write at least a paragraph about each.
2. Copy the rules and information from this post or her original one.
3. Notify the bloggers you picked and let them know they've been given the award via email or comment on their blogs.
4. Put the award icon in your post.

I would like to pass the torch and honor the following bloggers:

Amber of Amber ~Trust in the Lord. Amber is a wonderful mother of 7 blessings. She is a homeschooling mom, blogs , designs and is a true Proverbs woman. Her love for the Lord and family show through every post. Her blog posts and comments really uplift others including myself.

Heather of Marine Corp Nomads. Heather is a pillar of strength for her husband with his job, family and friends. Her love of the Lord and her family shine through her everyday life and posts. I love reading about her life as a military wife. Her love and giving the honor to the Lord for all her strength and love is so enriching . She is a very big inspiration to me. I have to say when she wrote about her husband being deployed my heart sank and I cried.Remember as my husband says I am a "sensitive soul"....LOL I know that God is with them and protecting them and him but I know how close she is to him. The next thing I knew she was comforting me when I was trying to be positive and uplifting her. She also loves to cook and bake like I do and has a wonderful recipe for Oatmeal cookies that seem like the ones I have been trying to duplicate from Trader Joes..LOL

Nancy Brown of Nancy Brown. Nancy has a beautiful blog that documents miracles in her life and the Praises of God for them. Here is a quote about her premature son:

"Tyler is an amzing little boy. Just a small 1 lb 11 ounces. He has been our world for almost 17 months. Would we do it again? You bet. Could the outcomes be worse? YOU BET! Do we want to do it again? Not in a million years." Nancy Brown

Having gone through a miscarriage of twins and two premature births ,one of which my sons lungs weren't developed I have enjoyed Nancy's blog.

Lynne of Lynne and Babies make six. Lynne is a mom of triplets plus one as she puts it for a total of 4 kids under the age of three. She is a sweet mom and I get a kick out her sweet pictures , a tribute she did for a friend on her blog as well as certain comments asking where she is at times..LOL

Now I know I am suppose to do five but there are so many great bloggers to honor I picked the above to give you some wonderful blogs to read an honor but have to say my friends Denise, Iris, Connie , Nise , Laurel , Talk to Grams, Melanie all received recently and I so agree as well as many others I looked because I would have given. And I have so many more that deserve like all of them on my blog roll so you see how hard this was so... I will leave you with I love you all. Pray for you , enjoy your comments remember it is like finding a penny and love to give awards and receive them.

Thanks again Denise.

In his endless love,

Wordless Wednesday~ July 11,2007

2007-07-10T14:33:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

Happy WW

Thank you all for participating and commenting ,

Love,

Angel Mama ():)
Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. Tiany (Chunky Monkey)
2. And Miles To Go...
3. jams o donnell
4. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog
5. toni
6. ruth
7. Patois
8. Alison
9. Our Happy Happenings
10. Comedy Plus
11. Sue
12. Where Your Treasures Are
13. letha
14. Shoshana
15. Common Mom
16. Amber\'s Crazy Bloggin\' Canuck
17. Friday\'s Child
18. maggie
19. karen (miscmum)
20. Devildogwife
21. SandyCarlson
22. Cheryl (Word Quilter)
23. So Lost
24. MorningSong
25. Barbara H.

26. Thea @ I\'m a Drama Mama
27. Liz (Looney Mom)
28. Training Hearts
29. Carol @ Embrace the Adventure
30. Alexis
31. Gattina
32. J
33. Jim
34. Simone\'s Butterfly
35. Kim:mom-musings
36. Frigga @ Any Apples
37. anyhow
38. maiylah
39. mrs wibbs
40. crazy working mom
41. chupieandjsmama
42. MamaArcher
43. addie
44. Villager
45. Mark Caldwell
46. Shana
47. Pam
48. bounce
49. Mama Shalom
50. The Cat Realm

51. Crissybug
52. Qtpies7
53. Samantha & Tigger
54. Lazy Daisy
55. Sherry (Redbud)
56. aldon @ orient lodge
57. Nancy Brown
58. Annie
59. Ali
60. becca
61. Michelle @ #!/usr/bin/mom
62. Chocolate and Coffee
63. Fantastic Five
64. inspired
65. Imma (Alice)
66. connie
67. mama k
68. Sassy
69. wrchili
70. MySpot Of Blog
71. oldqueen44
72. LivingforGod
73. Hopeful Spirit

Check out the new Wordless Wednesday HQ!!
View More Wordless Wednesday Participants

Thank you my Blogging Friends

2007-07-10T14:16:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

I would like to thank some of the great people and sites that have mentioned Angel Mama's site in special ways or have done really sweet things for me .

Denise of Shortybears Place for the Rockin Blogging Girl and Reflections Award. They mean so much to me coming from such an inspirational blogger and friend. I have enjoyed paying it forward. If you have not visited her site yet please go on over you will love it. Especially her sweet and encouraging posts about her husband and finding joy. Thanks Denise you are such a great friend and I love you .

Lauren of Baseball and Bows for the wonderful book reviews she does. They have blessed me and giving me a book. I can't wait to read it. If you haven't visited you are missing out. Thank you Lauren I was so excited I danced around....LOL You are great.

Anyhow blogs of Singapore has such a wonderful eye for photography if you didn't see his post on Peace yet, go check it out, but you will need tissues. He has a great contest every WW to guess things. I am not good at it ..LOL but he graciously let me win one with others on a easy pick. It is fun on WW . If you haven't gone over yet go check his blog out it happens to be Wednesday.:) wink...LOL

Jenny of Up the Hill Gang has wonderful links of love showcasing great blogs. She is a good resource and I am borrowing her idea. So if you haven't seen her yet go on over and tell her Angel Mama sent you ():)

Here is what she wrote about Angel Mama's site:Pearls of Wisdom---The first post I read at this blog was one with beautiful photos of Angel Mama's pizza dough and all the fixin's for pizza. I found that her other posts are just as lovely as the pizza post.

Sarah of Sarah Cool

She sent me the most lovely package in a swap we did. Sarah made us homemade Oreos ( she even gave me the recipe let me know if anyone wants)that my family just loved, great stationary cards, chocolate yummy , lip gloss, the most comfortable foot cushies for my feet,lip buffer so when I give angel kisses my lips are soft and other sweet things. Thank you Sarah. You are cool and a great sister in Christ. By the way all she was so patient waiting for mine to travel to her from all kinds of destinations first....LOL Thanks to her and Kelli for the great swap , fun , kindness and patience. Yes all I will upload pictures today it has been busy here and the USB has had some issues with pic from the camera. Love you all.

A special thank you to all of you who come and visit, give me tips, and have become part of my blogging world. I love visiting all your wonderful blogs, sharing recipes, links, hints and just enjoying your blogs and comments you leave here. You are all the best.

Amber from Amber~Trust in the Lord for the wonderful surprise for my blog. :) Thank you so much Amber you are a great friend.

Marriage Monday~ 30 Day Challenge July 9, 2007

2007-07-08T20:08:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends,

For the Lord said, "It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

Genesis 2:18

Our bicoastal wedding was so special surrounded by family and friends . We exchange vows in New York, with a big ceremony in a Victorian mansion and then flew to California to exchange vows with family and friends who couldn't be in New York. All of a sudden after the ceremony the musicians started playing a very light hearted tune which was a surprise to me. My husband smiled and right then promised for us to never take things to serious , get angry over silly things, love each other through everything and laugh. That began my life of laughter and fun everyday with my wonderful husband. The light hearted tune and serious love has helped us get through a miscarriage , a serious work related accident , health issues and life. It has helped us stick to goals, family goals, laughter and love. We put the Lord first and look to him not the problem and live life to the fullest.

Sticking to the goals with such a wonderful man is easy but with the heat lately and deadlines I have to say I love this challenge to it keeps me focused on the little things that you can do to bring joy into each others life.

I enjoy sharing in all your lives, gleaning from your wonderful marriages and goals . I enjoy cheering you on and praying for each of your marriages that I read about. My husband and I have found prayer and the Lord the golden key to each others hearts.

Thank you so much for visiting me today it means so much to me. May the Lord bless you and your marriages this week and always.

Thank you to Christine for hosting this lovely challenge.

In his endless love,

Why Do I love ( Digg) Jesus Meme

2007-07-08T20:08:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

"But despite all this overwhelming victory is ours through Christ who loved us enough to die for us" Romans 8:37

I have been tagged by Denise at Shortybears place, I really liked her answers especially number 5.

Gram at Talk to Grams , and Laura of Opinion Mom also tagged. They had such wonderful answers also.

Here are the Rules:

1. Those Tagged will share 5 things they love (dig) about Jesus.

2. Those tagged will tag 5 other bloggers.

3. Those tagged will provide a link in the comments section here of their meme so that others can read them and here the creator of this meme John Smulo.

I researched how this meme started and it has an interesting history and you can read it at the creators site as well as many other interesting responses.

Here's what I love about Jesus:

1. He loves me and all of us. Remember the song Jesus loves me this I know.

2.He is our King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and one day we will get to celebrate the establishment of His Kingdom together.

3. Jesus spent so much of his time with the less fortunate and letting them know they weren't excluded from the kingdom. The meek shall inherit the earth.

4. He spoke the truth and died for our sins.

5. He protects us and he has taught us love, grace , mercy and kindness.

I now tagg the following bloggers:

1. Heather of Devildogwife

2. Debbie of My Spot of a Blog

3. Amber of Trust in the Lord

4. Betty Jane of Have I told you lately

5. Tracy Hurst of Tracy Hurst

I know all you lovely ladies have wonderful blogs, posts and will do great answers with this but understand if you don't have time now.

This is such a great meme I a tagg anyone who hasn't been tagged and reads this who would love to express you love for Jesus.

Hugs,

All Women Blogging Carnival Monday July 9, 2007

2007-07-08T10:19:00.004-05:00

Dear Friends,

The All Women Blogging Carnival is another opportunity to visit other wonderful women blogs , no matter where we live in the world or what different time zones or constraints we may have - women and blogs visitng each other equates to support ,friendship, knowledge and FUN! : We all have so much to share in love, friendship and blogging. Dear friends , yes, it’s All Women Blogging Carnival number five time.

The rules around this carnival are simple and highly achievable:

· Be a woman blogger that likes supporting others, learning new things, and well having a cup of tea or lemonade and visiting around the kitchen table ..

Enter your internet name (the name you blog under) or the name of your post into the first box below
Enter the url address of the post you wish to submit to this weeks All Women Blogging Carnival.
Press enter. Everything then happens automatically.
Read the other submitted posts of your sister bloggers - make some new friends, leave some supportive comments and link back to the the hostess of the week to help spread the word to other women bloggers.

Cheers….enjoy the Pomegrante lemonade, chai or tea while you catch up on what your sister bloggers have to say. I’ve started it off with a post below.

Below is a post of a recipe gift from Angel Mama for participating. Click on the image to enlarge.

My Post about Moments in Time for this carnival is below.

Thanks for participating and have a great week.

Smiles and Blessings,

All Women Blogging Carnival Participants

1. ediehd@yahoo.com
2. All for Women
3. crazy meezer
4. Win A Christmas in July Stocking from Imaginif
5. The Power of Picture Books by Sunshine Girl on a Rainy Day
6. Amber@TITL
7. Devildogwife

8. Denise
9. Mad goat lady
10. Laura
11. Our Happy Happenings
12. mypieceofblog.blogspot.com
13. Mary Ellen Merrigan
14. elysa at GenPink

15. Waterfall Swimming Hole
16. April Kerr
17. The Tall Poppy
18. carol webb
19. Adventuring with 3 Boyz

Learn more about All Women Blogging Carnival here.

Thank you ~ Lemon Pound Cake recipe

2007-07-08T10:19:00.003-05:00

Click picture to Enlarge

Dear Friends,

Here is a thank your recipe gift from our family here at Angel Mama for all your lovely comments, friendships , enjoyment and for anyone who happens to be participating in the All Women's Carnival. In other words I appreciate you all who stop in. Have a wonderful week.

Love,

Note: Recipe design Angel Mama

Recipe Source: Cottage Living

We love it ! Enjoy

Women's Blogging Carnival Post~ Precious Moments

2007-07-08T10:19:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

How do you measure a precious moment?

Over the years I have realized that some of the most precious memories I have had with my children or friends were just slices of time .

With life at such a fast pace now , and so many things instant, it makes taking the time to just smell the roses, feed the ducks ,or go to a park seem at times that they need to be scheduled. Yet these are the times that my children have talked of the most.

Looking at the jars of sea glass gleaming like jeweled candy, pressed flowers and leaves, the pictures of their outdoor art workshops or puppet theater have invoked so many memories . Happiness and memories not just of the moment but how they relate that to the things that are important to them now at different stages in their lives. Taking the time to berry pick, hike , or mountain bike ride has made them not only appreciate nature or life but the time we took with them. I have four different children , with varied interests , hobbies , needs and most of all ages . Scheduling has been tough but surprising enough I have found through talks that a certain time camping , or at the beach , baking the cookies or shopping for a certain dress are their favorite memories. Slices of time that I might not have thought important at the time.

As I walk the beach with my husband, make a kite with my son, talk to my daughter, eat lunch with a friend, help my other sons with projects I always wonder which moment will be the magic moment in their time capsule of memories.

I remember going with my Great grandmother over the railroad tracks , to the pond and feeding the ducks who begged for more morsels. I felt so important as we had a mission to accomplish. People were depending on us..LOL We carefully picked blackberries from the thorned bushes and no matter how timid we were , l still got scratched. Filling the buckets to the brim and well of course eating some. We carried them back to make black berry pies and drinks. Here is the secret recipe to my grandmothers blackberry juice and memory maker.

I love learning about you all, your families, hints for us and memories.

Enjoy you week and thank you so much for your visit. I know how precious your time is and I am so glad you stopped by.

Old time Blackberry Juice

Ripe, wild blackberries, lightly mashed and put through cheese cloth

1/2- 2 cups of raw sugar for each quart of juice

3 teaspoons grated nutmeg

1 tablespoon crushed cinnamon stick

2 teaspoons whole cloves

4 tablespoons vanilla extract

Measure stained juice into a medium or large saucepan as needed.

Add sugar ( 1 1/2 -2 cups per quart of juice). In a muslin bag, tie the grated nutmeg, stick cinnamon and cloves. Simmer juice and spices over low heat until blended about 25 minutes. Take saucepan off heat and remove bag of spices. Stir in the vanilla.

Pour into scrubbed and sterilized quart jars to 1/2 inch from top Process in water bath for 15 minutes.

Adaption of Grange Cooking 1948.

Smiles and Blessings,

Announcement All Women Blog Carnival Here Monday

2007-07-06T21:20:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,
All Women Blogging Carnival Here Monday 7/9/07

I am hosting the 5th edition of the new All Women Blogging Carnival. The carnival last week at Imaginif had a great response, with lots of great women blogs to visit. A special thank you to all the ladies that joined in last week, and helped spread the word.

Joining in is easy, make a post on your blog or pick your favorite from the past week to submit for the carnival. To submit you post, visit the weekly host, which will be here at Angel Mama's this Monday July 9, 2007. I will have Mr. Linky up by Sunday night. I hope some of the lovely ladies who visit here will take part as you all have such wonderful blogs.

So grab a chair around the table , have a cup of nice cold lemonade, sweet tea or a chai frappe ( I even have a recipe on here for you ) , sign up and enjoy.

Email ~ Visitor from Oregon

2007-07-05T18:56:00.000-05:00

Dear Mrs X ( Former name of blog) from Oregon ,

I am putting this here as I have been puzzled about the email I am getting in regards to you and your situation from a concerned friend . They have asked me to post this to you , in hopes to clarify as they couldn't reach you.

I normally would never post a post to a visitor but under the circumstances involved was willing.

It is my understanding you come here ...so I thought I would leave this here for you. If there is something I can help you with please let me know.

Thankful Thursday~ Burdens and Hope

2007-07-05T08:23:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I have to tell you I had the most wonderful moment in time this week. At one point in our lives my husband and I found ourselves becoming friends with a sweet family in California . Through a series on events they had come to a volunteer group that we worked for with some needs. In all honesty the group was not based on our belief in the Lord but of helping others , and we enjoyed it . We did find ways to speak of Christ and let others know our reason for joining and helping those in need. Some of their needs were so humbling and so were they. I really enjoyed getting to know them , their children and lives. When it was time to help others, like at Christmas box time, Ed would come for what he needed but always be one of the ones to stay and really help me. Pack boxes, pass things out , deliver things. One day he just started telling me all his burdens and concerns . In turn I told him from the heart a real medical concern in our family . He asked how I coped and could help others so well . I told him we are told by the Lord to help others and be good stewards of what we had. He asked how I handled burdens and I explained about prayer and that good friends help your with your burdens , but don't carry your burdens as we help you turn them over to Christ and pray with you and for you.

Paul wrote of our hope as believers which he called "the blessed hope. He said "Looking for the blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ" Titus 2 :13.

Well we hired Ed for a few jobs and he never showed up, and never completed them which surprised us . We were on a deadline and really needed the help. Finally my husband who is so patient and kind had to let him go. Well he called two months later and apologized and straightened out but in the mean time it cost us a lot of time , money and heartache.

Well he called the other day and has fully understood the meaning of giving his life to Christ. He said his family life has changed for the better over the years having Christ in it . He told us the turning point was when he realized he couldn't turn to anyone , until he accepted Christ, changed his behavior , became responsible . He also said he now fully realized what we said about turning to Christ . My husband and I marveled that what we felt was a roadblock in our life at the moment was a turning point for someone to turn to Christ and become a fellow Christian. I am thankful God uses all to his glory and good. I have always realized that God will use all, that we can grow learn and change through things but now I can really reflect that what we might consider obstacles in our way will really make a difference in witnessing for the Lord. Like my husband said a few months of setbacks for us was nothing to bring someone to the Lord.

I am thankful for my family.

I am thankful Ed and his family are now Christian.

I am thankful for my fellow hope givers, burden helpers and Christian Sisters and Brothers.

I am so thankful to Denise and the Reflection award she bestowed on me. It really meant so much and am working on but wanted to acknowledge how her gift made me smile this week. Her compassion and friendship has so enriched my life.

I am thankful to you all who kindly stop by and show me your live, families, hearts and love. I will be by to rejoice in your moments of thankfulness this week. I am thankful to Iris for hosting.

May the Lord bless you this week and always.

In Christ,

Wordless Wednesday~ July 4, 2007

2007-07-03T18:40:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles To Go...
2. Amy Grant
3. Aldon @ Orient Lodge
4. Our Happy Happenings
5. Sue
6. Moving Mama
7. Alycia @ Where Your Treasures Are
8. Pinks & Blues Girls
9. sobeit
10. mamajuliana
11. SandyCarlson
12. The Birds & The Beads
13. Katja from Skimbaco
14. Training Hearts
15. Patois
16. maiylah
17. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
18. karen (miscmum)
19. anyhow
20. Amber-TITL
21. MorningSong
22. empress bee (of the high sea)
23. Gattina

24. qtpies7
25. Crystal@ God is in Control
26. Nesting Momma
27. SargeCharlie
28. jams o donnell
29. Christine
30. letha
31. ingrid
32. Cheaper By the Half Dozen
33. mar
34. Dragonheart
35. Shaz@UsDanes
36. Jodi
37. Palmtreefanatic
38. mousey
39. mjd
40. Nancy Liedel
41. toni
42. Elle Fredrix
43. Green Eyed Girl
44. cathy
45. Cheryl (Word Quilter)
46. mama k

47. chupieandjsmama
48. Rebecca of Sunnybrook
49. Holly Schwendiman
50. Christina
51. mrs wibbs
52. lissa
53. Vicki
54. Nancy Brown
55. Diana\'s Twins
56. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog
57. JennieBoo
58. Alison
59. Dawn :)
60. Starrlight
61. cathy
62. cathy
63. Mommy Bug Ramblings!
64. Dariana
65. Devildogwife
66. Laura
67. Dorothy

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Joy~ Love ~ Compassion and Teaching From The Heart

2007-06-30T01:39:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants." Deuteronomy 32:2

I really enjoy making my house a home. Decorating, baking , entertaining and living life. I have found that keeping to my schedules , using my home management binder, and most of all sticking to my goals that we have for the family , or that I have personally set make the difference for my family. We have family goals, our marriage statement, and my personal goals . I had a very wise person say to me years ago without goals you are like a rudderless ship. It has been so wonderful to look back over the years or time periods and see the accomplishments.

Each family will have their own way of doing things, schedules and recipes what really matters is that you have the joy in your heart. True joy and happiness come from within and from knowing the Lord. Sure there will be days when things won't be perfect, unexpected company will come over, you don't feel well as we are human that is to be expected. My children are only young once and God has blessed me with their care. As well as doing the daily things to care for them as we all do I love spending time with them enriching their lives. Teaching them about God, morals, ethics and life. I received the most wonderful email question and sweet comment about how I teach my children. Mainly from a guest column I did on my friend Candi's blog. Thank you Mary for your question and hopefully I answered you. I use to be on special Ed committees, the school board , every kind of volunteer mom..LOL and now home school Mom. The one thing that I can say from all the different experiences is enriching your children with the love of books, learning, life and skills are the common key to the door to success. When children and their parents are willing to take the time to experiment, relish the fact that learning is fun and you can learn something new everyday the possibilities are endless. Each and every person is unique and special just like snowflakes no two are the same. Each person will have their own interests, talents, hobbies and ways of learning things. My husband has been a corporate trainer over the years in various corporations and has always said there are so many different ways to teach something. The true gem is the parent or teacher willing to find the different child or persons interests and the best way to teach that particular thing . I truly admire the wonderful parents and teachers who are willing to take the time with the individual child ( as in finding things that interest them), explore with them , take them on field trips, the library, show the love of books ,lead by example , art classes , and enrich their lives. As my husband has noted over the years in his job of training ,visually learning really helps put the pieces of the puzzle together for some. We have always loved doing science projects over the years. It has been wonderful for my children to see the final outcome. Yes it has has been work for us ( to get supplies etc) but has been worth it for them win ribbons for their hard work, learn from others, teach others , and realize that some things take time and effort. Just throwing a ditto at someone with a few second explanation just might not cut it..LOL I admire all the different learning techniques that many do . Finding the joy in everyday living , life skill lessons , and love go a long way in teaching a child.

The wonderful people that radiant life, joy and happiness can truly be happy for others success because they are not of bitter heart. Bringing joy, not wanting to cause another pain , being nice etc all come from the heart . A heart centered in Joy, the Lord and love.

May the Lord bless you this week my fellow friends of the castles.

In his endless love,

Pet Warning for Dog Owners

2007-06-29T22:06:00.000-05:00

Sir Spot

Dear Friends,

I found this Serious Warning on my sweet blogging friend Green Eyed Girl . If any of you have dogs this is real important.
On a funny note I had visitors here before for my dog training hints...um ok my husband was rolling on the floor with that google search!My animals are very spoiled.

The following is serious:

I received this in an email today and had to post it. I have never heard of this before. Please read and pass on to all your friends.

Written by:
Laurinda Morris, DVM
Danville Veterinary Clinic
Danville , Ohio

This week I had the first case in history of raisin toxicity ever seen at MedVet. My patient was a 56-pound, 5 yr old male neutered lab mix that ate half a canister of raisins sometime between 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM on Tuesday. He started with vomiting, diarrhea and shaking about 1AM on Wednesday but the owner didn't call my emergency service until 7AM.

I had heard somewhere about raisins AND grapes causing acute Renal failure but hadn't seen any formal paper on the subject. We had her bring the dog in immediately. In the meantime, I called the ER service at MedVet, and the doctor there was like me - had heard something about it, but.... Anyway, we contacted the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center and they said to give IV fluids at 1 ½ times maintenance and watch the kidney values for the next 48-72 hours.

The dog's BUN (blood urea nitrogen level) was already at 32 (normal less than 27) and creatinine over 5 ( 1.9 is the high end of normal). Both are monitors of kidney
function in the bloodstream. We placed an IV catheter and started the fluids. Rechecked the renal values at 5 PM and the BUN was over 40 and creatinine over 7 with no urine production after a liter of fluids. At the point I felt the dog was in acute renal failure and sent him on to MedVet for a urinary catheter to monitor urine output overnight as well as overnight care.

He started vomiting again overnight at MedVet and his renal values have continued to incr ease daily. He produced urine when given lasix as a diuretic. He was on 3 different anti-vomiting medications and they still couldn't control his vomiting. Today his urine output decreased again, his BUN was over 120, his creatinine was at 10, his phosphorus was very elevated and his blood pressure, which had been staying around 150, skyrocketed to 220.. He continued to vomit and the owners elected to
euthanize.

This is a very sad case - great dog, great owners who had no idea raisins could be a toxin. Please alert everyone you know who has a dog of this very serious risk. Poison control said as few as 7 raisins or grapes could be toxic. Many people I know give their dogs grapes or raisins as treats including our ex-handler's. Any exposure should give rise to immediate concern.

Laurinda Morris, DVM
Danville Veterinary Clinic
Danville , Ohio

Ev en if you don't have a dog, you might have friends who do. This is worth passing on to them.

YOU can check the accuracy of this information at: http://www.snopes.com

Family Summer Fun and Memories

2007-06-29T14:50:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Find a penny pick it up!

"They looked to Him, and were radiant." Psalm 34

To recreate that fun theme use a small kiddie pool fill with homemade bubble recipe, and tons of wands, homemade bubble wands, hula hoops, and plastic pop rings. You can make bubble wands out of wire hangers also. My husband made me one out of copper with glass marbles etc and its an angel . So cute !

I have found over the years the pure joy of summer. I enjoy the warm summer memories of when I was little or doing things with my children in the lazy dazy days of summer. By the way can any of you hula hoop good? I need another lesson. I have to tell you one of the best summers my children had was at Ben and Jerry's ice cream festival ( yearly picnic). Oh we had so much fun. The best though was the bubbles. Oh my it was a blast.

We love making ice cream or sweet pinwheels. We love
using these for favors or part of our art parties. To
see how to make pinwheels click here. How to
make magic ice cream in 5 minutes with
a freezer bag click here.

I have found over the years the joy has been in
creating the memories. We love doing theme parties .
My children have loved these over the years and my
daughter who is in college still talks of her favorite a garden
party, complete with lady bug cupcakes and bee candy
made out of wheat germ and almonds. She made the candy
for a college project and that still makes me laugh.
Sir Nick still loves these kind of adventures.
His favorite is being a bug detective in the butterfly garden
or playing in his fort. I love collecting art magazines, project books and
gleaning from all your inspiring fun , creative moms and fellow bloggers.
Please leave some tips for us all and share your memories.

Taking the time to be creative with homemade picnic baskets, forts,
going to old time festivals, parades, the beach, using lump clay,
or a homemade puppet theater have been some of our favorites over the years.

This next week I will be making more pizzas for our second art park we are hosting, get things for canning and just having fun. So make bubbles, eat chocolate, make lemonade shakers in mason jars, catch fire flys. If you make smores can you invite me? If it has to be healthy make mango ice cream.... I have a lovely recipe .

Smiles and Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Rockin Girl Blogger Award

2007-06-28T16:24:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Denise of Shorty's Bear Place is one of the sweetest , kindest encouraging bloggers. She is such a great Dear friend to me.I appreciate her friendship, her being my sister, reading my blog..LOL, all her kind comments and her inspiring posts. Please visit her if you haven't you will love her marriage posts and posts from the Heart! I am so humbled and honored Denise gave me the Rockin Girl Blogger Award. I have had my picture taken, the family planning a dinner ...LOL Just kidding. Seriously you have no idea what this meant to me. I cried because she is so sweet and Blogging Land has been so fun ,kind, inspiring and well if your comments all are so sweet , fun and kind and this award is like the cake.

To pay it forward I bestow this Rockin Girl Blogging award to the following:
Click on the stars or their names to go visit.

There are so many great fun, blogs and Denise already has it of course. In the course of my visits so does Akelamalu who is so funny and sweet. Nise does too but I love her.

I wanted to give it to all but this time for this award. I give to Groovy Old Lady, of Groovy's Ruminations. She is so funny , a great inspiration as a writer, home school Mom and wife. It is almost like you can hear her laugh through her posts and comments.

Alycia of Where my treasures are is a new blogger like me and she is so kind, sweet inspirational, loving and my family loves her families pictures.

Debbie of My Spot of a blog is a great blogger that will make you think. She loves her family and it shows. We share our love of tea, tea cups, Victorian and life. She has always encouraged me and made me smile.

Susan of Penless writer. Draws her readers into her Heart and family. She is funny and I love her sweet posts and pictures of her family.

Tracy of Tracy Hurst is inspirational and loving in her posts. She has a great style and posts that make you think on your journey with the Lord.

And one of the most special awards goes to all the great friends who stop by here everyday I have something wonderful planned for you all next month. Details to follow.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama Rockin Blog Girl

Thankful Thursday~ Christian Family Life and Humor~

2007-06-28T00:46:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

As another week passes and I look over the moments in the week, I am so grateful for the Power to choose. The power to choose happiness in all circumstances and all things. Life , marriage, children and friendships are all so precious to each of us. Choosing to make our own happiness , plant our own gardens of love. I thank the Lord for having given me the gift of my wonderful children. He has so blessed me indeed .I know it is up to me to do a good job raising them and looking to the joy of it.

I am thankful for the Lord being in my life.

I am so thankful for my wonderful husband and his sense of ethics and humor.

I am thankful for my wonderful family and friends.

Ok and speaking of humor. I am so thankful for the gift of laughter and a sense of humor. With my friend Mary's permission I am going to tell you what my day was like the other day. We were getting ready for the children's art park and lessons we are hosting here. Mary has 4yr. twins ,as well as a 2 yr. and was babysitting 3... She graciously offered to go with me to help get the rest of my supplies and everything I needed, for my friendship tea, I am hosting next month. I was ~~crying~~ grateful that she went. Having the twins, my son and the other 4 kids should be enough said right there....LOL Are you with me still ?

10:00 am bathroom break the one 7yr Sarah jumps up and tries to flip like in "gymnastics" over the top of the door frame...while all eyes and lectures on safety were on her, the twins started fighting . I was in charge of Gracie the two year old , when I turned around she had stripped ...yes you heard me ...yes almost completely .I found myself stuttering and repeating " Oh my " over and over and other phrases randomly, intelligent things such as: no " we don't touch anything" until other people started staring and saying ok.... I grabbed her shoes yes those were off too and put them as well as her clothes back on. I then had to wash her and the 7 yr olds hands about oh...100 times . By then I felt like I had run a NY marathon and actually well ..won first place...ahem If you were in a mall and witnessed this I am sincerely apologize for traumatizing you. As for all the cute chocolates I bought to fill the tea cups, well they hopefully calorie free and still in stock ,as I ate every last one when I got home.

I am grateful for all you, your wonderful blogs and inspiration.

May the Lord bless you this week and always. Thank you for stopping in for a visit it means so much to me.

Thank you to Iris for hosting Thankful Thursday.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Wordless Wednesday~ June 27,2007

2007-06-26T17:07:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles To Go...
2. MorningSong
3. Sue
4. tasra
5. Rachelle
6. Comedy Plus
7. Vicki
8. Moving Mama
9. amy\'s zoo
10. seister2
11. Amber Canuck
12. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
13. Tiany (Less Of Me More Of Him)
14. NspiredByFaith
15. toni
16. Isabelle aka Tricotine
17. SandyCarlson
18. Babs
19. Katja from skimbaco
20. Where Your Treasurse Are
21. Nancy Brown
22. Jim
23. Forever Parents
24. YellowRose
25. dawnae
26. jams o donnell
27. Leslie
28. Two Happiest Moms
29. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog

30. The Birds & The Beads
31. Shaz@UsDanes
32. anyhow
33. Alexis
34. Dawn
35. Villager
36. Jan
37. Jodi
38. Tania (digsite)
39. Our Happy Happenings
40. Diane@ A Day in the Life
41. becca
42. Skittles
43. Jenny-up the hill
44. L.L. Barkat
45. Val
46. Lori
47. Jeremy
48. Mark\'s Regular Life
49. Cheaper By the Half Dozen
50. Melissa@BananaMigraine
51. Janae
52. Simone\'s Butterfly
53. Becki
54. maiylah
55. chupieandjsmama
56. Dragonheart
57. mama k
58. Aldon @ orient lodge

59. Christina @ Momology
60. Michelle Pendergrass
61. Lazy Daisy
62. Sherry (Redbud)
63. Kellie @ Confessions of an Organized Mess
64. JennieBoo
65. mar
66. Kashim & Othello
67. Crissybug
68. Mark Caldwell
69. empress bee (of the high sea)
70. Michelle @ #!/usr/bin/mom
71. clockworkchris
72. Cats~GoatsQuotes
73. Devildogwife
74. MamaArcher
75. Maine Mom
76. Sandy
77. His Little Annie
78. Shana
79. Laura
80. Samantha & Tigger
81. Katya
82. Innocent Joy
83. Frigga @ AnyApples
84. Green Eyed Girl

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Christian Humor

2007-06-26T09:09:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

For In Other Words Tuesday please scroll down. Thanks loves...

Thought you might enjoy. I know these have been around for awhile . Live ,Love and Laugh! Oh and smell the roses and eat chocolate...LOL

Noah and The Flood

And the Lord spoke to Noah and said: "In six months I'm going to make it rain until the whole earth is covered with water and all the evil people are destroyed. But I want to save a few good people, and two of every kind of living thing on the planet. I am ordering you to build Me an Ark," said the Lord.

And in a flash of lightning He delivered the specifications for an Ark.

"OK," said Noah, trembling in fear and fumbling with the blueprints.

"Six months, and it starts to rain" thundered the Lord. "You'd better have my Ark completed, or learn how to swim for a very long time."

And six months passed.

The skies began to cloud up and rain began to fall. The Lord saw that Noah was sitting in his front yard, weeping. And there was no Ark.

"Noah," shouted the Lord, "where is my Ark?" A lightning bolt crashed into the ground next to Noah, for emphasis.

"Lord, please forgive me," begged Noah. "I did my best. But there were big problems.

First I had to get a building permit for the Ark construction project, and your plans didn't meet Code. So I had to hire an engineer to redraw the plans.

Then I got into a big fight over whether or not the Ark needed a fire sprinkler system.

My neighbors objected claiming I was violating zoning by building the Ark in my front yard, so I had to get a variance from the city planning commission.

"Then I had a big problem getting enough wood for the Ark because there was a ban on cutting trees to save the Spotted Owl. I had to convince U.S. Fish & Wildlife that I needed the wood to save the Owls. But they wouldn't let me catch any owls. So no owls.

Then the carpenters formed a union and went out on strike. I had to negotiate a settlement with the National Labor Relations Board before anyone would pick up a saw or a hammer. Now we got 16 carpenters going on the boat, and still no owls.

"Then I started gathering up the animals, and got sued by an animal rights group. They objected to me taking only two of each kind.

Just when I got the suit dismissed, EPA notified me that I couldn't complete the Ark without filing an environmental impact statement on your proposed Flood. They didn't take kindly to the idea that they had no jurisdiction over the conduct of a Supreme Being.

Then the Army Corps of Engineers wanted a map of the proposed new flood plain. I sent them a globe.

"Right now I'm still trying to resolve a complaint from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission over how many minorities I'm supposed to hire, the IRS has seized all my assets claiming I'm trying to avoid paying taxes by leaving the country, and I just got a notice from the state about owing some kind of use tax.

"I really don't think I can finish your Ark for at least another five years," Noah wailed.

The sky began to clear. The sun began to shine. A rainbow arched across the sky. Noah looked up and smiled. "You mean you're not going to destroy the earth?" Noah asked, hopefully.

"Wrong!" thundered the Lord. "But being Lord of the Universe has its advantages. I fully intend to smite the Earth, but with something far worse than a Flood. Something Man invented himself."

"What's that?" asked Noah.

There was a long pause, and then the Lord spaketh:

"G*o*v*e*r*n*m*e*n*t."

Anonymous

What I Learned From Noah

Everything I need to know, I learned from Noah's Ark...

ONE: Don't miss the boat.

TWO: Remember that we are all in the same boat.

THREE: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.

FOUR: Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

FIVE: Don't listen to critics; or naysayers just get on with the job that needs to be done.

SIX: Build your future on high ground, or the top of a hill :)

SEVEN: For goodness sake, travel in pairs.

EIGHT: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

NINE: When you're stressed, relax float awhile.

TEN: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs,the Titanic by professionals.

Anonymous

In Other Words Tuesday~ Christian Life~ June 26, 2007

2007-06-25T21:00:00.000-05:00

"When there is little awareness of real need there is little real prayer."
~ Donald S. Whitney ~
Spiritual Disciplines For the Christian Life

"Pray without ceasing." 1Thessalonians 5:17 KJV

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6 KJV

David prayed seven times a day and Daniel, three times a day. Godly people are not hit and miss in their practice of intercessory prayer. They are disciplined in their praying. "Epaphras . . . . is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. Colossians 4:12

Dear Friends,

The gift of prayer is one of the most precious commodities we own.

Looking to examples in the Bible Abraham understood the importance of praying for others . Would God, for the sake of 100's and spare the city of Sodom?God heard Abraham's cry and delivered Lot.

Jesus taught: "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Matthew 18:19

I have found over the years putting my faith in the Lord and keeping my eye on him and not the problem has made my faith stronger. Standing with believers in prayer and intercessory prayer the Lord says" one can stand against a thousand , two ten thousand and certainly a three fold cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4 :12

Praying for my family , friends and strangers is a humbling and wonderful gift the Lord has given me.

If you have a need please email me and I would be glad to pray for you for Gods will.

May the Lord Bless you today and always.

Thank you to Laurel for hosting this weeks IOW.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Marriage Monday ~ 30 Day Marriage Challenge

2007-06-24T21:42:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Two such as you with such master speed Cannot be parted nor swept away From one another Once you are agreed That life is only life forevermore Together wing to wing and oar to oar."

Robert Frost

This was my wonderful husband and my anniversary this past week, we celebrated our many years, many memories and children in the company of family and friends. My husband has been my friend, hero and confidant for many years. Over the years we have had a family mission statement, marriage mission statement and goals. With each one reached, each holiday that passed and each milestone our children reached we celebrated the moment in time and each other. We celebrated not only our marriage and friendship but the fact we were willing to sacrifice our time and energy , to be a team. That meant cheering each other up and on in times of sickness ,hardships, cross country moves,and other lovely things that came our way...LOL

When you make your marriage vows to Love, Honor, and Cherish, you are telling your soon to be spouse,"you are God's gift to me. I will be there for you. Nothing on earth can change that."

I know that Christine is focusing this week on helping your spouse at work. My husbands career is important to him and to our family as is shows my children work ethic, dealing with integrity, the importance of doing your best and our families goals. The children and I try to help by doing things year round that make things easier for him and even small things of giving him time to study for things, getting the books and resources he needs to keep up on things so he doesn't have to go get them, keeping his office clean and making his meals to bring so that he is eating good and can share:) the good treats...LOL

To Honor is also a conscious choice you are making. It means to offer Esteem, Respect, and Courtesy. You promise to think first of your beloved and his or her welfare. Honor gives glory to God because it is entirely unselfish. Honor does not grasp. It boldly offers presence, not presents to the Loved one.

This week I want to continue on our path of honoring each other and helping my husband . I want to especially find special moments and time just for him.

May the Lord bless you , your friendships, marriages and households this week my fellow queens of the castle.

In his endless love,

Angel ():)

Thankful Thursday ~ June 21, 2007

2007-06-20T21:37:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4:10

For many years I raised money and served in different capacities in a service organization. The main project my husband and I headed up was for City of Hope. I was humbled and honored that the organization had a plaque with my name hung with others on an honor wall. The value and significance of the meaning of that has increased ten fold in the past few days.

I have a very dear friend Mabel who is one of the first people I met when I moved to California years ago and one of the last faces I saw when driving away. She walked up and down the mountain roads with me , she helped us repair the roof at our club. She has a sense of adventure and love that fills the room and your heart. With Mabel you could have a cry , laugh and an adventure all in one day. She is one of the friends that stood by me when I did a mountain bike fund raiser and decided we at the club could de bone , skin and bulk cook over 200 pounds of chicken and barbecue for the race ourselves to raise even more money rather then a cater...Oh my...don't even ask and no I didn't eat chicken again for a long time. She helped me host many of teas and parties, run a campaign etc.

For several months now Mabel has been getting treatments at the City of Hope , and decided to pass out cheer up nickles . As she puts it why not spread some Happiness joy and light rather then sit in her room and mope. Well she attached a poem I wrote her with angel pins I sent her in bulk when I heard of her project. Well they decided to put a plaque up for her on the patient wall and she said no she would go where the club plaques are and asked to be put near mine . Her reason: " I am a volunteer of God's Army and not a sick victim of the other guy"...LOL

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve others. I am thankful for wonderful friends that make serving a joy. I am thankful for all my family and friends talents in serving in the Lords service. I am thankful Mabel is getting better day by day. I am thankful for my daughter receiving another scholarship which is an answer to a prayer. I am thankful for all my wonderful blogging friends and their inspiring posts that I can glean from.

Thank you from my heart for your visit to my blog today. May you be blessed this week and always.

Thank you to Iris for hosting this .

In his endless love,

Angel ():)

Wordless Wednesday~ June 20,2007

2007-06-19T19:14:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles To Go...
2. Alycia@Where Your Treasures Are
3. maggie
4. Diana\'s Twins
5. Moving Mama
6. maiylah
7. Betty Jane
8. mamajuliana
9. karen (miscmum)
10. Monkey Giggles
11. Lynne - And Babies Make Six
12. the birds & the beads
13. Katya
14. Chrisbookarama
15. Kellyolgy
16. MorningSong
17. a wandering heart
18. mama k
19. Thea @ I\'m a Drama Mama
20. JHS
21. Principled Discovery
22. mjd
23. Crazy Working Mom
24. allhisblessings
25. Crissybug
26. Melody is Slurping Life
27. Gattina

28. Fighting for Friday
29. Alison
30. jams o donnell
31. in the PINK
32. YoungMommy
33. Kim:mom-musings
34. ingrid
35. mrs wibbs
36. Shaz@UsDanes
37. anyhow
38. Mommyhood for Lara
39. palmtreefanatic
40. Jodi
41. WritingInFaith
42. jenn in holland
43. Annie
44. Joyful Dyas
45. Amy\'s zoo
46. Sue
47. Jan
48. Green Eyed Girl
49. mar
50. GreenGrassGrows
51. mags
52. KC
53. Cats~Goats~Quotes
54. qtpies7

55. Lazy Daisy
56. Michelle in MX
57. Melissa
58. chupieandjsmama
59. Amy Grant
60. aldon @ orient lodge
61. Comedy Plus
62. the108
63. Melissa R. Garrett (Little Woolgatherings)
64. Janae
65. Kuanyin
66. Who has time to scrapbook?
67. YellowRose
68. SingForHim @ Real Life
69. AngelNicki
70. Starrlight
71. Crystal @ God is in Control....Not ME!
72. Our Happy Happenings
73. letha
74. My Quotidian Mysteries
75. devildogwife
76. Blog That Mommy!
77. So Lost
78. Cheryl (Word Quilter)

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30 Day Marriage Challenge~ Marriage Monday~ Our Anniversary

2007-06-19T16:16:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I have enjoyed Christine's Marriage Mondays and have started to participate. She does such a wonderful job. I have also really enjoyed Denise's and a few others 30 day challenge and the great job she has been doing this month. I am so glad Christine is going to host a 30 day challenge and I have decided to join. It is our anniversary week and the perfect week to start. Sorry I am a day late but we have been so busy. I will really enjoy the reminder as well as learning from all the wonderful inspirational posts.

May the Lord bless you , and your homes this week.

In his endless love,

Angel ():)

Angel Mama 's Heartlfelt Chats on Cloud Nine

2007-06-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"And whatever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him" Col. 3:17

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend and Father's Day! We had a weekend full of celebrations with my wonderful husband and my anniversary, my sweet son Jon's birthday and Father's Day. I can't believe another year has passed. We enjoy celebrating the milestones of our lives with special memories. We had our famous chocolate cake of course and delicious feast poolside.

The past few weeks have been so busy and taking up so much time ,working on a project as well as our summer art fun . So for the past few days I have just cleaned and organized again for the next few weeks. I have mixed up some wonderful cleaners again, a peppermint yard spray and wonderful homemade sunscreen without all the lovely toxins. I have hung all the quilts comforters and duvets out on the line , washed with lilac laundry soap and they smell wonderful. I have finally finished the organizing of my closets and put a tiny little chandelier and sweet scalloped shelf for shoes in mine. I think I have given away 20 pounds in the past few weeks and lifting it all should be ready for the Olympics.

I have a friend who needs cheering up coming over for tea and lunch. She is helping me make so more screens for the paper making workshop I will be doing for the kids. So...I am off to check on the forcaccia, cantelope ice and Mimi's blue ribbon carrot cake but wanted to check in and will make the rounds to all your inspirational blogs later .

I hope you all have the time to enjoy smelling the roses and linens on the line.

Any ideas for a great book for a book group?

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Family Life on Cloud Nine with Angel Mama ():)

2007-06-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

Lovely Pictures : Source Perrier

Dear Friends,

Thank you all for your kind words and support. May all of your days including today be filled with blessings , smiles and laughter. So many friendships are made around the kitchen table so thanks for pulling up a chair and giving me some time and commenting. Speaking of the kitchen table what sort of goodies do you like making in the summer? I am always looking for new recipes or ideas. I confess that I read cookbooks and wonderful magazines like novels at times...LOL

I have got so much accomplished these past few days for the summer art projects and workshops the kids are hosting here. I am so excited for them. They are each hosting a different day and we are planning treats, pizza on the grill and different salads. My wonderful husband and sons have put together my home screen printing workshop for such a reasonable price I am so thankful. If you have read the guest columns I have done for Candi's blog then sorry you might have already read these details...LOL

I have really enjoyed waking up to the beautiful sounds of the birds, grabbing a cup of jasmine tea and reading my devotionals outside before I go to the track. It has been so enjoyable spending time amongst the lovely flowers, lavender and hearing the water from the fountains .

We try to make the outdoors and extension of our home creating little garden rooms and use them to entertain in. We have made a few of the concrete tile benches over the years. No please don't ask what it costs to ship them across the country, when you move...LOL My husband and I love making salads or a light pasta meal and eating out there with torches lit at night, or during the day while the boys swim. No the above pictures are not from my garden but from Source Perrier and I thought I would share the sweet tables and inspiration. I love entertaining and making it like a bistro out there for my family with nice plates and a sweet setting. I will make a badge of the garden and put it in.

My husband and sons are laughing at me as I saw a design for a rose fabric tent complete with a screen window and thought I can do that. So I am making an art tent to do my projects outdoors and just watch Nick as he swims. I am using heavy 100 percent cotton rose fabric to cover it and making the screen window. I found a really beautiful old chandelier that I was able to get at an auction for pennies as it needed rewired. I have filled it with moss, French ribbons and will hang quaint little dainties from it. I will put that out there with my wrought iron table and chairs. It will be my version of a Ladies play house. I will also use it to host a Christmas in July tea I am having next month for a few of us to make some charm bracelets. I am trying some new designs and hope they will be good for Christmas presents.

I have been drying some of my herbs , , fruit leather and lots of lemonade and snow cones with the heat..LOL The other day I made pita bread and cookies . How about you? I would love to know if you planted a garden,or what you are doing for the summer.

Have a lovely day my friends and stop to smell the fresh linens on the line and roses in the garden.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Christian Life ~ Thankful Thursday ~ June 14, 2007

2007-06-13T22:02:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break though and steal; But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt,and where thieves do not break through or steal." Matthew 6 19-20

It is taking a lot for me to write this post... but through tears I have decided to go forth and post. Life is too short to worry about the little things and I am thankful for my family, true friends and Christian family. Soothing words calm and help in times of trial and burdens. I have always loved leading workshops, marriage retreats and teaching Sunday School. I love posting about Jesus and the wonderful blessings I am so thankful for. The past few days have been tough though I have had a stalker to my site for awhile. Faced with this burden and some mean things that never in my life have I experienced, and feelings of hurt .

The joy I have in the Lord, my friendships , families have been the key to dealing with this small but bothersome thing of someone following me around, and many other details I will spare you of.

Thank you to Denise and my special blogging sisters in Christ who have embraced me in friendship and love.

A wealthy Christian lady, who had spent her time and wealth on herself, dreamed one night of being in heaven. Seeing a large lovely home, she was told it was the gardener's. To her surprise her home was only a small cottage. When she questioned this the angel replied," We did the best with the materials you sent up."

Thank you for stopping by. May the Lord Bless you this week and always.

In his endless love,

Angel ():)

Wordless Wednesday~ June 13,2007

2007-06-12T19:27:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Happy WW.
Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles To Go...
2. Alycia @ Where Your Treasures Are
3. HisLittleAnnie
4. Diana\'s Twins
5. anyhow
6. Srching
7. Jan
8. mama k
9. mjd
10. chupieandjsmama
11. High Strangeness Altoona
12. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
13. the birds & the beads
14. Elizabeth
15. Give it a Try
16. JHS
17. qtpies7
18. YoungMommy
19. Imma (Alice)
20. maiylah
21. Atasha
22. jams o donnell
23. deborah
24. Backyard Birding
25. Addie (Reckless)
26. amy

27. ingrid
28. Alison
29. karen (miscmum)
30. Kuanyin
31. Villager
32. letha
33. ruth
34. dawn
35. Starrlight
36. babytalkers
37. Our Happy Happenings
38. Aldon @ orient-lodge
39. Autofocused
40. Write From Karen
41. SandyCarlson
42. Kellyology
43. mar
44. Val
45. jenn in holland
46. creativeoutletdesigns
47. Patois
48. lauren
49. Melissa
50. Crystal @ God is in Control....Not ME!
51. empress bee (of the high sea)
52. Angela Giles Klocke

53. dawnae
54. Nancy Liedel
55. Nicki
56. allhisblessings
57. Karina
58. It\'s a Mommeee\'s Life
59. Melissa R. Garrett (Little Woolgatherings)
60. Shaz@UsDanes
61. JennieBoo
62. mrs wibbs
63. Frigga
64. Beckie
65. Judi
66. Mousey
67. tasra
68. Jenn @ Who has time to scrapbook?
69. YellowRose
70. Blog That Mommy!
71. Cyndi
72. Word Quilter
73. clockworkchris
74. melody is Slurping Life
75. Traci
76. Gledwood

Check out the new Wordless Wednesday HQ!!
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Christian Family Life ~ In Other Words Tuesday June 12, 2007

2007-06-11T22:11:00.000-05:00

"Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading."
~ Oswald Chambers ~

Dear Friends ,

"For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever ye desire when ye pray. Believe that ye receive them , and ye shall have them." Mark 11:23, 24

"Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way...and the mountains quake..."Psalm 462-3

Over the years my family has faced moves across the country , obstacles and illness and each time we started to doubt.. is this the company we should work for , or move for?. Is this the area of the country that is best for us?

Being a native New Yorker and moving to California years ago was hard. I had to put my trust in the Lord that he knew better then me. With each move, corporate move, or major life decision once we got past the doubt and put our trust fully in the Lord to lead us we realized that it was best for our family. The Lord always provided us the best as well as answers. There were times we really wanted a particular place in the country, job or home, and when that certain wish didn't come through we had regrets or sadness. The Lord always protected us, led us the right way and provided why. We always saw later that we were rewarded for trusting him and that the particular job or house may have had problems beyond what we saw at the time.

At one time we lived on a mountain prone to earthquakes, they were always mild and we got use to them. When we had out of town visitors they would be fearful, we always had to explain to trust ,they were mild . We were even in a hotel once when we experienced an earthquake, that was off the richeter scale... pajama clad people were running in the lobby. It was a scary time as we tried to figure if we should stay or leave and the manager stood smiling with coffee and told everyone the building was built on rollers and would roll with the quake. "Trust" . Was all he simply said, to each worried person. This made me think of the Lord and all the time we need to have faith he is leading us and roll with the things life sends us for the Lord has went before us and knows what is best for each of us . Our job though is to have the faith to be led.

Thank you so much for stopping in for a visit. May you be blessed today and always.

Thank you to Iris for hosting this weeks CWO IOW.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Life on Cloud Nine with Angel Mama

2007-06-11T11:56:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,
I hope you all had a lovely weekend. I will be around to see all your lovely plans, glean from your inspiring posts and enjoy visiting you and your families for awhile later.

I spent most of last week and part of the weekend reformatting, installing the OS updating software, and giving the computer the works as I had a virus I got in it last week. So I had been without access for a few days, while doing this.:)

We also installed our pool, I had guests over for tea and cleared out the spaces in my workshop for our summer art fun. Boy that was a job I wasn't looking forward to but am glad its done. The kids have picked out some projects to do with Dad also so we picked up those supplies.

I have to tell you I made the most wonderful recipe for over 100 burritos and it turned out so good. They freeze wonderful. I will give you the link later and our additions . We make our own chili and use it with some of the burritos for variety. This is the absolute best recipe I have tried in a long time. You will laugh I think the cost came out to .20 a burrito and that is because we add the chili etc. Angel Daddy is bringing some of these to work this week.

So you don't get the impression all was calm while I was doing all this. I pulled my slip out of the dryer and went to get dressed to go out with all the guys ( yes I am a Mama with a house of just boys right now as my daughter is off at college) and couldn't find the slip anywhere... I wandered the house aimlessly with such conversations to Angel Daddy "did you see my slip I just had"?

"What slip?" says my wonderful husband as he and the kids head out to the door and load into the car. We will just be out here waiting dear as I know you are almost ready( as it took them all of three minutes to get ready). After aimlessly wandering I went and got a new outfit as I decided I didn't want to wear that cute number anyway. My hair is now almost to my waist and takes longer to get ready then all of a 2 yr old preschool class for a walk. After what they said was eternity we go shopping for the rest of the pool supplies ...OH joy getting my list... out low and behold I almost jump for joy and not care who is around for there in my purse is my slip... Yeah not only did I not lose it but I am not losing it.

Have a wonderful day my friends.

I am off to make snow cones, take Sir Nick out swimming , make fruit leather and dry some herbs that are ready.

Love ,

Angel Mama ():)

Thankful Thursday ~ Humorous Angel Cake

2007-06-06T23:22:00.001-05:00

" In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" ( 1 Thess. 5:18)

Dear Friends,

There is a legend about two angels- Angel Requests and Angel Thanks. Each morning they come from heaven and go on errands. By the end of the lovely day Angel Requests has his basket overflowing, but Angel Thanks has only a few. I am so grateful to read everyones posts and see that you are all thanking God for everything in your lives.

I am thankful for all in my life. I am thankful to God for the assurance that he can turn every circumstance into blessings and lift us above any circumstance.

I am thankful for my friends , family and sense of humor to be able to laugh when needed. When I first started driving in the mountains of California years ago with the fog etc. I almost went off the cliff and realized that God never let me and my family never let me forget...LOL

Speaking of sense of humor my dear friend Millie sent this to me and thought you all might like a laugh for today:
Alice Grayson was to bake a cake for the Baptist Church Ladies' Group in Tuscaloosa, but forgot to do it until the last minute. She remembered it the morning of the bake sale and after rummaging through cabinets, found an angel food cake mix and quickly made it while drying her hair, dressing, and helping her son pack up for Scout camp. When Alice took the cake from the oven, the center had dropped flat and the cake was horribly disfigured. she said, "Oh dear, there is not time to bake another cake."

This cake was important to Alice because she did so want to fit in at her new church, and in her new community of friends. So, being inventive, she looked around the house for something to build up the center of the cake. Alice found it in the bathroom-a roll of Toilet paper. She plunked it in and then covered it with icing. Not only did the finished product look beautiful, it looked perfect. Before she left the house to drop the cake by the church and head for work, Alice woke her daughter and gave her some money and specific instructions to be at the bake sale the moment it opened at 9:30 and to buy the cake and bring it home.

When the daughter arrived at the sale, she found the attractive, perfect cake had already been sold. Amanda grabbed her cell phone and called her mom. Alice was horrified-she was beside herself. Everyone would know! What would they think? She would be ostracized, talked about, ridiculed! All night, Alice lay awake in bed thinking about people pointing fingers at her and talking about her behind her back. The next day, Alice promised herself she would try not to think about the cake and would attend the fancy luncheon/bridal shower at the home of a fellow church member and try to have a good time. Alice did not really want to attend because the hostess was a snob who more than once had looked down her nose the fact Alice was a single parent and not from the founding families of Tuscaloosa, but having already RSVP'd , she couldn't think of a believable excuse to stay home. The meal was elegant, the company was definitely upper crust old South and to Alice 's horror, the cake in question was presented for dessert!

Alice felt the blood drain from her body when she saw the cake! She started out of her chair to tell the hostess all about it, but before she could get to her feet, the Mayor's wife said, "what a beautiful cake!"

Alice still stunned, sat back in her chair when she heard the hostess (who was a prominent church member) say, "Thank you, I baked it myself."

Alice smiled and thought to herself, "God is good."

Thank you Iris for hosting.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Dona Nobis Pacem

2007-06-06T13:26:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday~ Dona Nobis Pacem~ Blogblast for Peace

2007-06-05T19:42:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. Betty Jane
2. And Miles To Go...
3. toni
4. Katya
5. Rachelle
6. Moving Mama
7. Simone\'s Butterfly
8. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
9. Alycia
10. Diana
11. Patois
12. Crazy Working Mom
13. High Strangeness Altoona
14. the Raven\'s Barrow
15. letha
16. madd
17. SandyCarlson
18. Barbara H.
19. Starrlight
20. Faith Family & Friends
21. ruth
22. Michelle
23. jenn in holland
24. anyhow
25. mar
26. Alison
27. Kim:mom-musings
28. annaliza @ ventanawhos candid
29. Mousey
30. Shaz@UsDanes
31. MrsX

32. SexyMom
33. Mommy\'s My Name
34. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog
35. Rosemarie
36. Dawn
37. Traci
38. Mark Caldwell
39. empress bee (of the high sea)
40. FatBlokeThin
41. whenn
42. Our Happy Happenings
43. the bumbling bees
44. Samantha & Tigger
45. Gewels
46. Sue
47. becca
48. Skittles
49. dawn
50. Amber\'s Crazy Bloggin\' Canuck
51. My Quotidian Mysteries
52. Mary E. DeMuth (relevantgirl)
53. Stacey
54. allhisblessings
55. Raising Joey
56. Monkey Giggles
57. on the Rock
58. Val
59. TeaMouse
60. Aldon @ orient-lodge
61. Opal: Vegan Momma
62. dawnae

63. Kellyology
64. jamie
65. Green Eyed Girl
66. qtpies7~ Dodgeball is a religion
67. Comedy Plus
68. Janae
69. Annie
70. jams o donnell
71. palmtreefanatic
72. The Monkey King
73. Epiphany Alone
74. Crystal
75. the birds & the beads
76. Frigga
77. Dariana
78. dirkey
79. Lexa
80. mjd
81. Anndi
82. Bud Weiser
83. Mom Unplugged
84. Parker
85. Rebecca of Sunnybrook
86. Mimi Lenox
87. Karen Jo
88. Fantastic Five
89. clockworkchris
90. Michelle
91. JennieBoo

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In Other Words Tuesday June 5,2007

2007-06-05T08:34:00.000-05:00

"What use to make us stumble, God can use to make us stand. What once made us bow our heads in shame, He can use for His glory."

~ JoAnna Weaver ~

Having a Mary Spirit

Dear Friends,

"The Lord will give strenghth to his people; the Lord will bless his people with Peace . " Psalm 29:11

"But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me. I shall come forth as gold." Job 23:10

In God's word he has given answers to all our questions including , " Why does he allow his children to suffer?" There will always be a reason or a divine purpose to be accomplished and he will be with us every step of our journey.

Sometimes the Lord allows suffering to chasten his children. " For whom the Lord loveth he chaseteneth" Hebrews 12:6 Trials or mistakes we make can bring correction and reproof as well as God can turn any negative situation to his greater good.

We may not understand why we chose the path we did in the past or the mistakes we made but then ended up making us better people for it. He will use it to bring gold into our lives." That the trial of your faith, being more precious then gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." I Peter 1:7

He allows the storm so that we may learn necessary lessons and so that we will be brought closer in our walk with him.

His resources are adequate and his promises sure. In our weakness and sometimes mistakes and wrong choices is his strength and love.

May you be blessed this week and always. To visit other IOW please visit Loni at Joy in the morning

In his endless love,

Angel Mama

A Contest How Lovely~

2007-06-04T14:26:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Speaking of marriages. Please Scroll down to see my Marriage Monday post.

When visiting Overwhelmed with Joy I found out about a lovely book contest.

Joyful Day's is having a contest and giving away 5 books from Glass Road Publishing. They are Christian fiction. The first book is a June bride mystery titled Gone With Groom ( Thompson’s Bridal Mayhem Mystery Series Continues).

Go on over and find out about it.

Angel Mama ():)

Marriage Monday~

2007-06-04T11:59:00.000-05:00

" What great thing is there for two human souls
To feel they are joined...
so strenghten each other...
to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories."

George Eliot

Dear Friends,

Christine is hosting Marriage Monday and I have wanted to participate for awhile and love talking about my husband and family...LOL so this was perfect. I will enjoy reading the other participants and gleaning from their wonderful posts and marriages.

I love these verses in regards to marriage:

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.

Proverbs 31:10 KJV

Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Ephesians 5:33 KJV

A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband….

Proverbs 12:4 KJV

Let love and faithfulness never leave you …write them on the tablet of your heart.

Proverbs 3:3 NIV

Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Ephesians 5:33 KJV

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned….

Proverbs 31:30-31

I love my wonderful husband dearly and love spending time with him and my children. I feel so blessed to have them in my life. My husband works so hard to provide for us all financially, emotionally and spiritually that I love doing the small things that make his life easier and being a good help meet. I feel it is so important to make my home welcoming and gracious to not only visitors but my family. Making each person feel important ,cherished and listened to. We have four children two of which are still at home and so we do lots of family nights and spending quality time together.

It has been hard over the years with my husbands work schedule to get away alone or leave the children for periods of time. But I find it so important to have date nights or special evenings dedicated to just him. I love making special treats for the kids , then having a special dinner for just us. Recently I made our room even nicer with special touches like a luxurious bed and breakfast. We have a antique cameo bed and fireplace that I have enjoyed making over. My husband has left me little presents , notes and roses where I would find them . I secretly love leaving him notes in his brief case, pillow,. chocolate on his pillow and special treats he will find also.

We have taken sweet day and weekend trips, going to sweet bed and breakfasts when the time avails. We treasure all those memories. As our children grow I know we will be planning even more. I have enjoyed making us special picnics , treasure hunts, going to the movies,or just going to a quiet restaurant and talking. We love sitting on our deck entertaining friends and family but especially treasure our moments alone just enjoying each others company. With his commuting and traveling we don't get to get away much but do loving camping and little slices of time.

Our families are spread out all over the country but do enjoy it when we can spend time with them and get together.

Enjoy your day and wonderful marriages my friends.

In his endless love,

Angel ():)

Blessings and Tea~ Chai Frappe Recipe

2007-06-04T11:32:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I hope you enjoy this one. It is truly lovely. You can find my recipe for Chai tea here.

Angel Mama's Chai Frappe

Banana
8-10 iced chai tea cubes
1/2 cup lowfat vanilla soymilk
1 tbsp honey
1/8 tsp cinnamon

Drop banana into blender. Add ice cubes. Pour in milk, honey and cinnamon. Blend until ice is crushed to a smoothie consistency. Makes about 2 servings.

Life and Housekeeping on Cloud Nine

2007-06-04T08:43:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend. Ours was very busy as usual. So I apologize if I haven't made it to your blogs to visit yet. I will be there today to read all your wonderful plans, weekend adventures and lovely posts.

We went to the Library as planned on Friday and Sir Nick signed up for a summer reading adventure for 6 weeks. They have a lot of great things planned and he is so excited. I am so happy and so blessed we had been praying for supplemental curriculum books for both he and Jon for awhile now, and found boxes upon boxes for sale at the library. Our family has so many books and a huge library but I wanted more textbooks. My husband and sons helped me go through all them and we found elementary Algerbra, HS algebra, Calculus , Geometry, Trigonometry, Spanish, American Literature, History, Civil War books,Photography, Artist books and so many more. We ended up with about 50 books as well as reading books, home improvement and cook books.

I have started to teach 6-7 years olds Sunday School so have been busy with lesson plans.

We are also expanding our art studio and getting tutorials and supplies for the kids. We are doing silk screening and screen printing next weekend as well as will be making our homemade paper again.

Well I hope you all enjoy your wonderful day I am off to put salsa chicken in the crock pot , do laundry and wash all the floors.

I have a column to do for Candi's blog also so will do that before the afternoon. I will be by soon.

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Rib Rub Recipe and Copy Cat Baby Back Rib Recipe

2007-06-04T08:22:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Here is the recipe for the rib rub we use:

This makes 1 cup of mix.

1/4 cup paprika
2 Tbls. salt
2 Tbls. granulated sugar
2 Tbls. packed brown sugar
2 Tbls. ground cumin
2 Tbls. chili powder
2 Tbls. black pepper
*1 Tbls. cayenne pepper ( Optional as is very hot )

Source: Down Home Cooking

We use this on ribs , steaks at times etc. Keep in a plastic container will keep many months. I am severely allergic to MSG, and with the new labeling and MSG can be listed as a spice at times we make our own to be safe.

For our copy cat Applebees ribs:

Take your ribs we have used baby back , pork and beef with this. The baby back is my families favorite.

Wrap the ribs in tin foil and before sealing lightly rub some spice mixture, go sparingly as is very hot . I use just a tiny bit, then barbecue sauce ( to follow) and seal put in oven for 4 hours at 250. Take out , put a little more sauce if you want and sear on the grill ( optional for 5 minutes).

Barbecue sauce:

1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
3 Tbls. dark brown sugar
3 Tbls. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. liquid smoke ( optional)
*Please Note:

*Or we have used bottled Rays or Hunts sauce as I have got so many on sale lately.:)

Then to the homemade or bottled sauce add our secret ingredient of 16 ounces homemade or store apple butter. Warm the apple butter and sauce on the stove before putting on ribs.

Even though our family considers this very close to Applebee's recipe it is not the the proprietary recipe from Applebee's to get their real thing you would have to go there...LOL

Hope you enjoy as much as we do.

Angel Mama ():)

Angel Mama's Frugal Deli~OAMC, Bulk Buying and Lunch Menus.

2007-06-04T07:38:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I have been asked what we make my wonderful husband for lunches and dinners for his commute. Most everyone at my husbands work,tend to eat lunch and dinner out. My Dh's health couldn't swing that so I had to come up with gourmet meals and desserts,as I didn't want him to feel left out or deprived.
In order to make it work we do semi OAMC and cook a lot on the weekends etc. My freezer is full of sales right now so I am going to get new smaller freezer that is energy efficient to put just all our pre made meals in.He loves bring in homemade meals.
In the winter months I send stews, homemade soups, sauces, different Chinese entrees, burritos, Fettuccine Alfredo and more filling meals. In the summer months I tend to send more pasta salads, copy cat coleslaw, barbecue chicken, subs and lighter foods as he wants variety. I also make up bulk cheesecake brownies, cookies, bars and desserts as he loves sharing for their coffee hour and he manages the crossing over of two shifts so I have to make lots...LOL

I love experimenting in the kitchen , cooking from scratch and baking. I enjoy making mixes , and the kids love helping so we made up more of our batches this weekend for our brownies, spices etc. I buy all my spices in bulk as I need them at their freshest , so I refilled my spice bottles as well.

I have found slicing our own meat and cheeses saves me tremendously. We have our own meat slicer , seal a meal and make a production line. I buy many of my chesses such a provolone, mozzarella and even whole roasted deli turkey roast beef etc. from a restaurant supply store. Then slice and seal. We then make up subs ahead for my husband during the week and freeze those as well as packages of cheese and deli meat. When I need the packages of cheese I take out the night before and you would never know that it was frozen. I also season sirloin when I find on sale and make our own roast beef, we make our own honey roasted hams and turkeys also. With different seasonings I can make Italian roast turkey and different flavors for variety. Lately with the sales I have found it has been cheaper and easier for me to get the whole deli turkeys, hams and roast beef from the store I frequent. My price is less then half of the deli prices for thick nice slices of meat.

I make breakfast burritos, burritos, enchiladas,fettuccine Alfredo, brown rice stir fry, meatballs, tamales as well as casseroles or other meals and they freeze great.
When we have the freezer room we make about 80 meatballs , 60 burritos, 40 tamales etc over a weekend. It makes it a lot easier.

This past weekend we made our own mozzarella for fun with the kids and it turned out great. I am going to use it today to make a margarita pizza, with fresh basil and tomatoes.

Sorry I rambled ...LOL

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Life Is A Journey~ Vintage Housekeeping Tips

2007-06-01T12:05:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Well Friday is here, I can hear the Fred Flinstone whistle now. Here is a guest column I wrote for my friend Candi's blog: From now on when I do one I will just link it over to there but since this will answer some questions some of you had for me I will leave this one here for now. I have had some questions about my banner . Thank you all for your kind questions and comments. Being a mixed media artist,I made the banner, but will be playing around with it to make some things bigger etc. If you have any suggestions please leave them for me as I love you all and your comments. I will add more of my art work, studio, binder recipes etc. in the next few days.

My kids and I use to make an outside art studio every summer and use to attend art parks etc. So I have been collecting supplies, tutorials and such for Sir Nick and Jon for the summer . We will be including those also.

Here is my column:

I have been a friend of Candi's as well as reader of her blog for quite awhile now, and wanted to formally introduce myself. I am humbled and honored to be doing a guest column for her while she is in the process of moving. My nick name is Angel and so many of my friends and family use that. I am a blessed Christian SAHM, of four wonderful children and a loving husband whom I love pampering. I love to be the queen of my castle, garden, bake , OAMC, cook, and consider each day a gift and journey. I love to make lists and schedules, sometimes even crossing things off them ..LOL I love finding bargains and am a bulk- buying and bulk-cooking Aficionado. I believe in being a good steward of my husbands hard earned money .

My family loves to travel , make art projects together, read, go to museums the zoo , make soap , volunteer and learn something new everyday. I have been asked on my blog ( which I started in Feb) to put up my binder, family activities , crafts and more recipes so as I share my life and journey I will add things here also. We have a small art studio that we would like to expand. I have been a speaker at various womens conventions, a volunteer , mixed media artist and avid recipe collector. I love my family dearly as I know you all do so I collect any tips along the way of life to pamper them and make each day special. I have learned over the years its is the small touches in life that make things so special. I enjoy reading your tips and about your families and lives also. So many wonderful friendships are made around the kitchen table , so please pull up a chair, grab a cup of tea or sweet treat and enjoy each others company.

Speaking with Candi yesterday, they have accomplished so much packing and taking to the storage unit in such a short time. I know we are all thinking of her now and can't wait to hear about her new home soon. If you have a message your would like me to give Candi or would like to contact me please feel free to email me at: AngelMamasheart at gmail dot com. My blog is here. As I know your thoughts and comments mean a lot to Candi and myself , but she probably won't be moderating them until she is settled.

I always say moving is such a joy I mean just think of all the art work you get to make with the leftover boxes, how great the post office is at forwarding mail and the joy of having family meetings around the kitchen table where to place furniture ( well when you finally get the boxes unpacked and find the table). Well they are possibilities...LOL Speaking with Candi yesterday, they have accomplished so much packing and the storage unit in such a short time.

My husband commutes so the weekends are important to us and very busy. So I enjoyed a wonderful walk around the track this morning and washed all the bedding to be hung out. I found the most wonderful vintage look tea towels on clearance lately ( the picture of them is above)and just love them. I have found that tea and kitchen towels after use can harbor germs. To combat this I soak mine overnight in boiling water and one drop of essential oil ( usually tea tree, lavender or lemon ) , then wash. I also soak them in the final rinse with a half a lemon in muslin.

I will add some recipes later. We are off to the library to get some special books for my 7 yr old, make some ribs I am so excited about we got 20 pounds for 1.00 a pound. I have a wonderful rub we use then a special sauce and they taste like Apple bees.

In his endless love,

Angel (Angel Mama ) ():)

Wordless Wednesday~ May 30,2007

2007-05-29T18:26:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles To Go...
2. Donna
3. Lene
4. Aldon @ orient-lodge
5. Sue
6. Our Happy Happenings
7. Comedy Plus
8. Starrlight
9. karen (miscmum)
10. MorningSong
11. michelle
12. Joyful Days
13. Friday\'s Child
14. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
15. Patois
16. mama k
17. mjd
18. NspiredByFaith
19. Kellyology
20. Crystal
21. MrsX
22. Diana
23. JHS
24. Alison
25. ruth
26. Bittersweet Coffee

27. eph2810
28. jams o donnell
29. FatBlokeThin
30. maiylah
31. mrs wibbs
32. Beaman
33. Addie
34. anyhow
35. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog
36. SandyCarlson
37. Moksha Gren
38. Toni
39. Adventures In Babywearing
40. Angela Giles Klocke
41. Amber\'s Crazy Bloggin\' Canuck
42. empress bee (of the high sea)
43. Chris
44. Lori
45. PJ
46. jenn in holland
47. Holly Schwendiman
48. Chris @ Real Horses
49. kaliblue
50. Mississippizen
51. Frances
52. Kuanyin

53. Mark Caldwell
54. Melissa
55. qtpies7
56. KC
57. Val
58. Pinks & Blues Girls
59. Samantha & Tigger
60. amy
61. Moving Mama
62. Janae
63. TeaMouse
64. L.L. Barkat
65. Dirkey
66. SingForHim
67. clockworkchris
68. Mz. Jackson
69. Crazy Working Mom
70. Fantastic Five
71. Michelle at Scribbit
72. Betty Jane
73. Dragonheart
74. ju
75. Rayne
76. Karen from the Korner
77. Carey

Check out the new Wordless Wednesday HQ!!
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In Other Words Tuesday~ May 29 2007

2007-05-29T08:03:00.000-05:00

"Lower your expectations of earth. This isn't heaven, so don't expect it to be."
~ Max Lucado ~

Dear Friends,

Being sweet for a short period is easy for some, remaining sweet and caring can only truly be done by being a child of God. It is then true happiness , joy and grace enter into our lives. I have found over the years that the people who are truly happy are the ones who have discovered the Love of the Lord, his grace , mercy and unconditional love. Through him a new person and way is born.
Slowly discovering that happiness and love are within and the key to the heart is not in having the perfect life, house etc. but in living the experience as a spiritual person of God. With this knowledge we are set free to live our lives without all the expectations that the newest gadget or material things will solve our happiness.
I have always loved reading Max Lucado's work and his way of honoring the Lord. He puts it so simply and yet it is very hard for us all as we tend to get hurt here on earth seeing suffering, meanness and sometimes don't understand how some can do the things they do. People who are"of this world" make choices that hurt or humiliate others and are very useful to Satan to hurt and destroy. In remembering the above quote we need to be in prayer for ourselves and those we love as we live each day. Our relationships and lives will be much richer and happier by living through our Lord and releasing the need for perfection. Only heaven is perfection.

Thank you Iris for hosting this week.

Only in heaven is there perfection!

May you be blessed this week and always.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Dooney & Bourke Bag Contest Oh My!~

2007-05-26T22:19:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Visiting my lovely friends Iris and Debbie,( yes I am suppose to be outside relaxing on the patio ....LOL I am going in a minute...) I found out about a lovely contest sponsored by Pinks and Blues Girls.
They are giving away aDooney & Bourke Splash Denim Bucket Handbag in summer white with a white leather strap. Retail value: $135! They are also including Dream Angels Heavenly Eau de Parfum purse spray from Victoria’s Secret. Retail value: $29!

So I entered of course! I love Angel perfume and beautiful handbags !...LOL and you can too go on over.

Hugs,

Angel Mama ():)

Wishing You A Happy Memorial Weekend~

2007-05-26T01:15:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Wishing you a Happy Safe Memorial Weekend.

Friday Feast May 2007

2007-05-25T10:01:00.001-05:00

>
Dear Friends ,

My friend Amy talked me into joining Friday Feast . This is my first one so here goes:

Appetizer
Name a sound you like to hear.

The sound of the waves at the Ocean or beach is so peaceful to me. We love spending family vacations at the beach.

Soup
What is your favorite kind of cheese?

I love lots of different cheese but especially fresh shaved parmesan. I make a cheese cake appetizer with it and cheese crisps.

Salad
Do you sleep late on Saturday mornings? Why or why not?

No , I love going out running the track or biking. And I have kids...LOL

Main Course
When was the last time you forgot something? What was it, and how long did it take to remember it?

Last week! I forgot to return library books, a day ..sigh LOL

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I notice __the beautiful sky__________ when _I get up____________.

Thanks for joining me. For others go here

Friday's Feast Participants

1. Kara
2. Prudence
3. Tonsofsons
4. Becky
5. And Miles To Go...
6. Gattina
7. Karen
8. julie
9. mitchypoo

10. Carrie
11. Michelle
12. Stacey
13. Shari
14. Chris
15. Lisa Knight
16. Beccagirl
17. Karin
18. Christine

19. connie
20. clockworkchris
21. Friday\'s Child
22. sassy mom
23. Mau
24. Alice Teh
25. Twisted Cinderella

Friday's Feast Home
View More Friday's Feast Participants

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Christian Life~ Thankful Thursday May 24, 2007

2007-05-24T05:06:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Here in the early morning I am so thankful for my quiet time with the Lord. I enjoy my bible study early in the morning , then a walk as the sun is beginning to rise. It is so quiet and peaceful , the only sounds I hear are the birds outside my window.
As I started looking though my prayer journal I realized how God has been there, and answering each prayer for everyone, I had been praying for, according to his will. It also made me think about free will . Meaning that he gives us the choice to accept his love , grace, mercy, and help or go the other way. It is so wonderful in times of doubt or hurt he will put a Moses in our path, a friend that tells us to believe in the Lord, love him, worship him and move forward. Move past doubt, hurt and pain into his endless love, and grace. Speaking of friends I am so grateful for a dear friend Delores. Delores is such and inspiration to me. She is 90 , looks and acts 50 , still gardens, hosts teas and has shown me how to knit, be a prayer warrior, and be a great friend. She has shown me age is just a number, wonderful keeper of the home secrets and helped me make my own scent for perfume that smells wonderful.
I am so thankful in my times of needing a friend, prayer or love he has put people in my life that have been there for me. Divine intervention has helped me many of times, and I hope that I have been a help to others. He puts signs on our path everyday of the blessings that we have.
I am so thankful for the wonderful weekend I have planned with my family.
I am so thankful for all my friends , all of you who have inspired me and made me so grateful reading your blessings . Thank you for sharing and Iris for hosting this.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Wordless Wednesday~ May 23,2007

2007-05-22T21:09:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,
Happy WW.

>
>
Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. eph2810
2. Jenny-up the hill
3. And Miles To Go...
4. on the Rock
5. Naeva - Mom of 2
6. NspiredByFaith
7. mama k
8. Amy Grant
9. michelle
10. Biker Betty
11. maiylah
12. anyhow
13. Alison
14. jams o donnell
15. JHS
16. amy
17. Shaz@UsDanes
18. jenn in holland
19. High Strangeness Altoona
20. the Raven\'s Barrow
21. Toni
22. Jarid and Caydon\'s blog
23. Traci

24. Our Happy Happenings
25. Patois
26. Ali
27. qtpies7
28. Write From Karen
29. letha
30. Wild Mama
31. aldon @ orient lodge
32. dawnae
33. Green Eyed Girl
34. KC
35. Comedy Plus
36. Rayne
37. Paranormal Rand
38. Val
39. Mz. Jackson
40. Classic Mama
41. Homemom3
42. mrs wibbs
43. Gene Bach
44. Lazy Daisy
45. Mark Caldwell
46. JennieBoo

47. MrsX
48. Frigga
49. Linda
50. Hopeful Spirit
51. clockworkchris
52. Prudence
53. Becca
54. Judi
55. Judi
56. palmtreefanatic
57. Toni
58. Sandy
59. Stacey
60. Michelle
61. Dorothy
62. Misslionheart
63. mar
64. Glass Half Full
65. Courtney
66. The Plaid Sheep

Check out the new Wordless Wednesday HQ!!
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Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Photo info 1st post.

Christian Life~ In Other Words Tuesday~ May 22,2007

2007-05-22T09:14:00.001-05:00

"Until you settle the issue of your own worth, it's impossible to bring holiness into anyone else's life. Until you understand that your worth is already determined by the fact of your birth, everything else is an exercise in propping up a dying tree."

Carol Brazo

Dear Friends,

I had my quiet bible study this morning, and then had a wonderful walk around the park as the sun was beginning to rise. What a great start to the day. I have been going over my to do list in my head for days. Everything I wanted to accomplish before this weekend. As I did that I felt a silent nudge. You know the nudge...LOL Well I couldn't ignore it anymore. So here I am. I didn't know if I had time to participate today but I love Christine's choice of quotes, and had a conversation that would relate to it this past week.

A dear lady named Norma that I have been corresponding with has made great strides in turning her life around. Despite her trying she was recently hurt by some comments ( of her friends , not here) she felt mean and uncalled for by others judging her. She asked my opinion.

I am so thankful to have the joy of the Lord in my life, his love, forgiveness, compassion , grace and the wisdom of his word. As I picked up the bible and found a study I have been doing and gave her this verse: Hebrews 10:24 " ...let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds." I truly believe that giving others advice, love , guidance ,scripture and help is wonderful. But I do feel that when you are secure within yourself you can give it kindly , willingly and with love. We all need love and grace as none of us nor our lives are perfect. When we can do that we show others by example of our lives and that is best way. Some of the best teachers and examples in life are those in which someone kindly shared their life, accomplishments and ways with you then those who berated and told you everything you have done wrong.
Following Christs example of love, grace and mercy we can help lead others to the Lord and better ways as well as be willing to learn from others wonderful examples. Sometimes those that are so unhappy within themselves and not sure why don't even understand the empty feelings they are having so they are quick to come with a mean way or comment to make others feel the same. As they would say to correct someone or help well you can't be mean ,as we know with bitter heart no knowledge is gained.I will love them also, as the Lord tells us to ,and pray for them to find the joy, love and grace of the Lord. The Lord loves us accepts us and most of all wants us.

May you have a blessed day and thank you Christine for hosting this week.

In his endless love,

Angel ( Angel Mama ():)

Angel Mama Soothing Boo boos with Nexcare.

2007-05-19T18:51:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

5 minutes for mom and Nexcare are having a contest . If you win you get 45 boxes of boo boo fixers as I call them or bandages. I don't know about you but this would be great for my first aid kit.What a lovely contest .

I found this so we can all be happy.Even if you don't win you can get a coupon for .55 cents of here.

Go check it out.

Love,

Angel Mama ( Professional boo boo fixer ...LOL)

Angel Mama's Coffee House Blueberry Scones, Chai Tea and Coffee House Recipes

2007-05-19T08:52:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Here is some recipes that we love especially on the weekend. I so wish some of you could come pull up a chair and have a cup of tea and visit. I came in from my walk and working outside to make these for our weekend treats and thought I would share.

Blueberry Scones~ This is a recipe we adapted from Bon Appétit as we wanted to copy cat a T. Joe's that we love.

Hope you enjoy we love it.

I have also included two of our copy cat chai tea and coffee house recipes we use , especially on the weekend.

Angel M's Blueberry Scones

Ingredients:

3 cups self-rising flour

1/2 cup plus 11/2 tablespoons sugar

3/4 cup (11/2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 1/2 cups dried wild blueberries (about 10 ounces)

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon buttermilk

1 1/2 tablespoons finely grated Meyer lemon peel or regular lemon peel

preparation

Position rack in top third of oven and preheat to 425°F. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk self-rising flour and 1/2 cup sugar in large bowl. Using fingertips, rub in chilled butter until pieces are size of small peas. Add dried wild blueberries and toss to coat. Mix 1 cup buttermilk and finely grated lemon peel in glass measuring cup. Pour buttermilk mixture into dry ingredients and stir until dough begins to form (some of flour will not be incorporated). Transfer dough to lightly floured work surface and gather together. Knead dough briefly, about 5 turns. Divide dough in half. Form each dough half into ball and flatten into 1-inch-thick disk. Cut each disk into 6 wedges.

Transfer scones to prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart. Brush tops with remaining 1 tablespoon buttermilk or (regular milk mixed with confectionery sugar and orange juice) and sprinkle with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar. We love both versions of the topping.Bake until scones are golden brown on top and toothpick inserted into center comes out clean, about 25 minutes.

Angel M's Chai Tea~

3 cups water
3 cups milk (I use skim)
6-8 black or decaf black tea bags
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cloves (I use less because I don't like too strong a clove taste)
1/2 tsp ground ginger (or a mashed small chunk of fresh)

Bring water and milk to a boil. Add other ingredients, return to boil. Turn off
heat and let steep for 3-5 minutes. Remove tea bags then filter through fine
strainer. Good hot or cold. (I keep it in the refrigerator and microwave it if
I want it hot.)

This is a copy cat for the famous coffee house s “Lowfat Creamy Blend of Coffee & Milk” Those little bottles will set you back quite a bit, but this version costs a mere fraction of that. . The recipe even teaches you how to clone espresso with a standard drip machine and ground coffee.

Angel M's Coffee House Surprise ~
Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh espresso
2 1/2 cups lowfat milk (2 percent)
1/8 or less cup raw sugar ( we use raw) granulated sugar ( my husband likes it sweet I use even less of my self )
1 tablespoon dry pectin*

Combine all of the ingredients in a pitcher or covered container.
Stir or shake until sugar is dissolved. Chill and serve cold.
Makes 24 ounces.

Variety

To make the “Mocha” variety:
Add a pinch (1/16 teaspoon) of cocoa powder to the mixture before
combining.

To fake espresso with a drip coffee maker and standard grind of
coffee:
Use 1/3 cup ground coffee and 1 cup of water.
Brew once then run coffee through machine again, same grounds.
Makes about 1/2 cup fresh espresso to use in the above recipe.
Run a pot of water through machine, without grounds, to clean.

*This is a natural thickener found in fruits that is used for
canning. You can find it in the supermarket near the canning
supplies. It is used in this recipe to make the drink thicker
and creamier, and can be found in the original recipe. It does
not add to the flavor and can be excluded if you don’t care so
much about duplicating the texture of the real thing.

We buy a lot of our tea in bulk ,usually the organic from two different suppliers, dry honey and the different coffee flavors from a restaruant supply store in bulk for a great price so will include many more recipes we make if you want for our iced coffee etc.

Enjoy !

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Weekend Savings Housekeeping and GardeningOn Angel Mama's Cloud Nine

2007-05-19T08:44:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Well it is a wonderful day in the neighborhood .... that song has been stuck in my head for days. LOL I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
I have been up since 5:00 and went for a wonderful walk around our sweet neighborhood, enjoying the birds and gardens. I will be continuing to work on our garden and yard. I do promise pictures soon so sorry. We have the fountains out, and the benches, have finished the one we were making and now planting. I am working on a sweet secret garden with a sunflower playhouse and a Mrs bean stalk , with a few trees in our far back. Oh happy days ...we had so much to clear up from the remains of the old garden from past residents that well lets just say was hodge podge. I did help Sir Nick with all the herbs he has been growing and have all our tomatoes in.
Today I came in and had some baking to do for our weekend treats. When I am done I will hang all the sheets and comforters I washed out on the line, finish working outside, go to the library, cut everyones hair and rest..LOL
Have a wonderful weekend and don't forget bargain shopping. My deals of the week last week were 14 of " Angela Mia" 6lb cans 2.00 each and expiration of 11/2008. I will use these for my marinara sauce, chili, homemade hot Italian soup etc especially this fall. A designer comforter set with shams , 400 count thread sheets brand new originally from Bed Bath and Beyond at Big Lots for 35.00. Oh and lovely Chambord preserves from France for 1.00 expiration 11/2008 so you can imagine how many I bought..LOL
Oh my and how can I forget my major deal of the week 2 pair of brand new resort sandals , one in choral and the other olive leather . They are leather, wedged with beautiful flowers muted on the side regular 75.00 for 5.00 each. Any of you who are regulars will know yes I was dancing with this find from my" La Frugal Chic Boutique". My husband reminded me about these when I talked about my deals of the week.LOL

Well friends have a lovely day.

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Thankful Thursday Blessings~ May 17,2007

2007-05-17T09:30:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I am thankful for the heavy envelope in the mail filled with money I received this week. There was no outside address so I didn't know why it was so heavy or what was in it. As I sat down with a cup of tea at my desk and opened the mail this one was first as it intrigued me. It was in a bright red envelope with the word Blessing on the back. Well when I opened it I had to smile it was from a very dear friend and former employee Christopher. Taped inside the card was lots of " cheer up nickels " and shiny pennies. He had put the saying a penny saved is a penny earned, and if you save it , it is a government oversight.LOL
When Christopher worked for me and I had one of those days where nothing went right or someone was sad he took their hand said a prayer, gave a hug and sent them to the beautiful fountain out front and told them to act like a child smile and throw money in the fountain. To see the joy well up in some people or have them say "yes the Lord is taking care of me but I must give the problem over to him and have faith ",was wonderful. For me I would slip our throw the money in and take my mind off all family, work or everyday worries for the moment. Christopher was the first at my door when I was sick with orange juice , or a card, and the one to help me load the moving van for my husband and I when we moved the first time. We still exchange cards, BDay cards, letters and cheer up and his usually have a trinket . I loved how he sent the as he called them cheer up magic nickels and pennies.
I am thankful for the Lord being in my families life, and his blessings.
I am thankful for Christopher and all my friends , and the new ones I meet everyday.
I am thankful for all of you who read and comment it is like finding a penny on the ground what joy at the blessing.
I am thankful for my wonderful husband and my children. I love each of them for their gifts, talent, and each in their own way. But I am especially grateful for the sweet devoted love of my Sir Nick who sang me a special Birthday and Mothers day song this year and thinks I am a hero no matter what I do , cook, bake or help him with. It makes my day.
Thanks to Iris for hosting this event.

Love,

Angel Mama ():)

Sunrise Sunset~ Wordless Wednesday ~ May 16,2007

2007-05-15T20:43:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday Participants

1. And Miles to Go...
2. Betty Jane
3. Daniel and Jaime
4. KC
5. Lynne-And Babies Make Six
6. MrsX
7. NspiredByFaith
8. anyhow
9. Hopeful Spirit
10. Alison
11. jams o donnell
12. wishtobehealthyme
13. Beaman
14. Our Happy Happenings
15. Beckie

16. Angela Giles Klocke
17. Carey
18. dirkey
19. Lauren S.
20. jenn in holland
21. Kellyology
22. Simone\'s Butterfly
23. mama k
24. Simone\'s Butterfly
25. Dariana
26. Pass the Torch
27. Val
28. My Quotidian Mysteries
29. Monkey Giggles
30. on the Rock

31. letha
32. Ali
33. Crissybug
34. Barbara H.
35. Amber Canuck
36. The Estrogen Files
37. Comedy Plus
38. Traci
39. Denise Patrick
40. Janae
41. aldon @ orient lodge
42. Mommymommy
43. Gattina
44. Michelle

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Family Life, Heart Felt Chats

2007-05-15T20:42:00.009-05:00

Dear Friends,
We love learning something new everyday and teaching our children about life. Over the years we have attended concerts, museums, arts festivals,field trips many aquariums and zoos.We have have taught them to cook , bake, balance a check book, write poetry and make science projects.
It has been for fun to teach them how to experiment, design things , write stories , and photography. Among the projects , these are a few favorites:photosyntheses, photography, mixed media arts, made lights out of batteries, our own batteries, made our own kites , origami and various others fun things.
Part of our yearly budget includes memberships to art , science, and other museums as well the zoo . Every week we make treks to the library and have a huge extensive library in our home. We try to make learning fun and creative.
Have picnic basket will travel is our motto. Over the years we have had our own family field trips, day trips and camp outings. My husband and boys really love geo caching,exploring.The best part is finding and leaving treasures for others, including trinkets and notes. The kids have loved nature hikes whether they were at the Niagara Gorge, Red wood forest,Golden Gate Park, Russian River, Mohican State Park, Turkey Run, beaches, national forests,or camp grounds. We have lived in the North, traveled to Canada, the West, Midwest and love to travel with the kids. We teach them how to read and make maps, keep journals and they have participated in an archeology dig.
We have enjoyed teaching them about various cultures and made festival nights. We try to do something different each time, keeping them occupied by reading, watching movies,and cooking an ethnic meal . At times we have made crafts and traveled to various areas. Their favorite was San Fransisco's China town.
They have enjoyed going to a corn festival , actually going into a corn and wheat field, apple picking, strawberry picking, planting a garden and seeing not only how things are grown but harvested. Below is some pictures from one of our outings.
They have been lucky enough to be invited to corporate parties and tour plants.
Do you all do any special field trips and do you have any advice for us ? We would greatly appreciate.

In his endless love,

Angel Mama ():)

Eight Things About Me Tagg

2007-05-15T20:42:00.007-05:00

I have been tagged by my sweet friend Debbie. Here are the rules :
Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.
People who are tagged write a blog post about their own 8 random things and post these rules.
At the end of your blog you need to tag 8 people and post their names.
Don’t forget to leave them a comment and tell them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Well dear friend:

I received my nickname of Angel many years ago and most of my family and friends have used it ever since. Speaking of family I have 4 wonderful children and a wonderful husband.

I have been appointed to many Board of Directors of various groups over the years ( including service organizations, business and volunteer charity ). Two of my favorites were City of Hope and the Seeing Eye Dog Foundation. I was also an elected official.

I have spoke in front of a Senate committee on research and a paper I did on family and children in the past.

I love cooking and baking . My signature dish is homemade spaghetti and meatballs. Can you tell I am a Mom? With all I love baking and cooking this is their favorite..LOL

I am a mixed media and doll artist. I had two dolls mass produced that I designed and part of their proceeds go to women and children in need. One is an angel doll of course..LOL Like you couldn't guess that one.

Some of my favorite places are the beach and San Francisco. I miss the trolley cars, the seals, the whale watch in March, the crab feeds and my friends...sigh

My husband , children and I have been restoring our Gothic brick Victorian. We have refinished the hardwood floors ourselves, rewired chandeliers, restored antique furniture and are learning stain glass.

I love having Victorian teas, collecting vintage tea cups, hats and tea pots. I have a vast tea party recipe collection. My favorite teas are Jasmine, Lavender and Earl Grey. I even have a truffle recipe made from Earl Grey.

Thanks Debbie.

I Tagg any who are reading this and want to participate, please drop me a line to let me know if you do. I have loved reading all the wonderful things of those who have participated so far. I Tagg: Candi , Denita, Traci, GroovyOld Lady, Rosemarie, Hopeful Spirit, and Beckie ,that is all I can think of for now. Bonnie you are in my prayers and I am letting you off the hook. Denise I read yours and love getting to know you so you are off the hook. Akelamalu you are always tagged so I am letting you off the hook ...LOL unless you didn't do this one and want to do another...LOL

Love,

Angel Mama

Christian Life~ In Other Words Tuesday ~ May 15, 2007

2007-05-14T22:42:00.000-05:00

“What makes life on this frightful sod so exquisite is God’s merciful propensity to perform divine tasks amid deeply flawed people.”
~ Beth Moore LPM Blog

Dear Friends,

When I was young I secretly liked to go to Church every week, not just to hear about the Lord ,or be in the choir but to have tea and talk with Bettina.
Bettina always had something wise to say, or a kind word to brighten my day. I loved her special treats that we would eat as we drank tea, and chatted about life. It became a ritual after church during social hour that I always looked forward to. Bettina was everyone's Mother, Grandmother , Aunt or friend. At the annual Mothers Day tea everyone brought her a flower and wanted her at their table. As a good wise women , who was so sweet she sat at everyones table for a few minutes. Her warm laughter filled the room as her advice filled your heart. Bettina never married but had hundreds of children. Everyone looked up to her and sought her advice. Her heart to hearts would be a hodge podge of wisdom and delight each week.
Some of her favorites were her insights on Jesus parables, or famous quotes , life stories or scriptures.She use to always say don't judge a book by its cover. Give all a chance as we are flawed humans but the Lords perfect Love will give you grace.
Gods grace has washed over my life in times of sorrow, joy or hurt and helped me forgive, move on , and be joyous in the Love of the Lord. During many of those times I reflect on his words in the Bible and her words to my heart. The warm 7 layer bars or blueberry scones, earl Grey tea and the soft glow of the candles on the table still fresh in my mind.I have tried over the years to listen , pray for , give advice , and have tea for others as Bettina did for me.
I have realized that each one of us is special in the Lords eyes and there is something we are to do for him that no other can. As you sit down for quiet time this week may you have a peace that washes over you and the Lord in your heart, as he helps you on your journey.

Thank you for stopping in for a visit and many blessings.
Thank you Laurel for hosting this week.

In his endless love,

Angel ( Angel Mama )

Angel Mama's Red Velvet Cake Recipe

2007-05-12T09:40:00.001-05:00

Angel Mama's Red Velvet Cake Recipe

INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 ounces red food coloring
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 cup milk
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup white sugar
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
Grease two 9 inch round pans. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Make a paste of cocoa and food coloring. Set aside.
Combine the buttermilk, salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the cocoa mixture. Beat in the buttermilk mixture alternately with the flour, mixing just until incorporated. Stir together baking soda and vinegar, then gently fold into the cake batter.
Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
To Make Icing: In a saucepan, combine the milk and 5 tablespoons flour. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens. Set aside to cool completely. Cream together butter, 1 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until light and fluffy, then stir in the cooled milk and flour mixture, beating until icing reaches spreading consistency

Angel Mama's Vintage Bedroom Retreat~

2007-05-11T08:59:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

"Marriage is a sweet state, I can affirm it by my own experience, In very truth, I who have a good and wise husband Whom God helped me find."

Christine De Pisan

I have had a secret plan I have been working on and I am just about done. Well you know that as Angel Mama I am in charge of the plans in the house for example social, safety etc. Which in itself a pretty extensive job and you can never be too cautious, as every planner has I have my advisory committee . Not that I don't take to heart all your wonderful suggestions as my friends so if you have any please leave them for me.
Well I try to be cautious about my family as every good mama is but well my darling husband commutes a lot and was away for training and I have wanted to surprise him. Now that he is on his way home, h*o*m*e*l*a*n*d security let me disclose..LOL This year has been tough as all of our weekends are filled with getting things ready for the week ahead I make all his meals when he commutes, snacks etc for the week and we try to spend time with the kids making our own Angel Mama's Chuckie Nights etc. and we haven't had very much of relaxing time. So... I have decided to build a retreat. No for you inquiring minds not out of cardboard though I have made a time machine, bear machine , and a pretty mean play house. Sorry back on track...
A retreat for Angel Daddy and me. I have wanted my bedroom to look like a bed and breakfast. I did get a wonderful cameo antique bed at an auction last year ( yes when I won I danced and screamed as all the dealers stared, and laughed...oh who cares I got the bed and thats all that matters..when will I ever see those people again..um ok every auction since but they always wink and ask how I like the bed ), a fireplace in the room etc. But at times my room became the catch all. Well no more I have organized , put a sweet couch, marble table and chairs, and even made chocolate. I am trying to get it all finished before he comes home so we can have breakfast there in the morning. So I am really excited.
I am going to put some of our barbecue recipes , cake and a quiche up today hope you enjoy.

Love,
Angel Mama ():)

Happy Mothers Day~

2007-05-11T02:41:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,
I wish you all a Happy Mothers Day and Blessed Week

MOTHER

If I could give you diamonds

for each tear you cried for me.

if I could five you sapphires

for each truth you’ve helped me see.

If I could give you rubies

for the heartache that you’ve known

If I could give you pearls

for the wisdom that you’ve shown.

Then you’ll have a treasure, mother,

that would mount up to the skies

That would almost match

the sparkle in your kind and loving eyes.

But I have no pearls, no diamonds,

As I’m sure you’re well aware

So I’ll give you gifts more precious

My devotion, love and care.

~Author Unknown

Happy Mothers Day~

2007-05-11T02:15:00.000-05:00