The Status of Things

It always feels like that by this time of year, we should be half way through using up the food we've froze and canned.  But, alas, shelves and freezers are still more full than empty.  They do look different, though.  My pantry starts looking like it's full of empty jars because, well, when the empty jars get put back in the pantry, they are placed where ever there is room (the fronts of shelves) because...hey, it's cold in there and we just want to get in and out as fast as possible.

As you can see, it's quite a mess.  I need to get in there and move the empty jars to the back so I can see what's left.  Do you see what I see?  That pint of tomato sauce that looks almost 1/3 empty (top right)?  I didn't notice it until the photo and then went and inspected it.  How it ended up with so little sauce is beyond me.  It's nicely sealed, though, so we'll eat.  Weird.

Both freezers are showing some freed-up space, but not nearly enough to combine the two so one freezer can be unplugged.  I need to be doing a better job of setting applesauce out to thaw the night before instead of forgetting and pulling a out a jar of it from the pantry at the last minute.  The faster we use up the frozen applesauce, the sooner we can unplug.

 

It might not look like we've eaten much, but these two freezers were quite a bit fuller.  You can see how they started out here.

I'm already making a mental list in my head of changes for next year: more strawberry jam, more peas, more tomato sauce (yes, 90 pints doesn't look like it will be enough), less salsa, more tomato soup, no leeks (I was uninspired), more spinach, less chard...you get the drift.

Most of the chickens we harvested have been eaten.  I think there are only three left.  We still have some sausage (from Ham), venison and a little bit of free-range beef.  That's going to have to get us through (a goal set by me), so we need to slow down on the chicken-using and use the rest sparingly.

Our lunch rotation is still going well.  Dinner planning is a but more willy-nilly.  Last year, I was very deliberate about planning out my meals ahead of time, but I felt a bit tied-down when I assigned meal ideas to certain days.  This year, I make a list of ideas, buy what I need and then see how I feel each day.  The see-how-I-feel approach feels much better to me.

I am desperate for the beginning of Lent.  Putting all the spiritual reasons aside for the moment, I need discipline when it comes to what I'm eating.  Cold weather makes me a terrible eater.  I crave sweets and carbs over veggies and fruit and my decrease in physical activity just adds to the problem.  Maybe I should teach while doing squats and jumping jacks.  My kids would like that.  I plan on giving up sweets for Lent again.  Why don't I go ahead and start awhile?  Because I'm a wimp with very little self-control.  That's why.

A few weeks ago, my 18-month-old Miriam pooped and peed in the potty on separate occasions.  She hasn't since.  I knew it was too good to be true, but couldn't help hoping.  I'm planning on waiting until summer when she's a little older and I can let her run around in big girl undies.  Oh, to be diaper-free.

Other status updates (this was written last Wednesday):  My bathrooms are dirty, the house needs dusting, there are large piles of laundry that need distributing.  Snow is falling, Sam and Sadie are out in it, Miriam has just woken up from her nap.  Jamey is on his way home from work early because of the snow, I know what I'm making for dinner (this), and tonight I will walk on the treadmill (dag nab it).

I'm thankful for all of it.

Oh, and I almost forgot.  Today (Monday) is my grandparent's 69th wedding anniversary. 

Happy Anniversary, Grandpa and Grandma!

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Coupon Purse {by Mavis} Winner!

By your responses, I can tell there are A LOT of you out there who are excited about coupons.  I've been learning a thing or two this week from Mavis' great tutorials and I'm excited to put them into practice.  In case you've missed any, here is what she's been talking about...

How to Organize Your Coupons
How Do I Find Coupons?
How to Use a Coupon
How to Use a Coupon (Part 2)
Where Does Mavis Find Her Online Deals?
What the Heck are Daily Deal Sites?

Don't forget to watch for her frequent posts on how to get great deals and, next week, she's taking us double coupon shopping with her.  I bet she'll treat us to free samples at Costco if we get hungry.

Here we go!  The winner of her choice of coupon purse is...

Farah 

who said, "I like the Hippie Chic!"

Congratulations, Farah!!  Please email me (thyhand123@gmail.com) your name, address and choice of coupon purse (in case it's changed) and I will pass your information on to Mavis.


Now, if you didn't win, wipe that tear from your eye.  From now until Valentine's Day, if you order a coupon purse from Mavis' Etsy shop and enter "10mavisbucks" in the comments of your order, you'll receive 20% off your coupon purse!  Thank you, Mavis!!

Have a great weekend, everyone, and happy coupon-ing! Pin It

Giving of Ourselves Interview: Ashleigh

I love this series.  I know I've said it before, but I can't help it.  I believe God delights in us when our thanksgiving and praise bubbles over and out and we can no longer sit still and go about our daily life without purpose in this world.

I met Ashleigh through blogging and learned that she started out like many of us- a woman with a career path all laid out before her.  She decided on a different path and has found a way to add increased purpose to her precious life.  I'm going to be quiet now and let her tell you the rest.

Thank you, Ashleigh, for sharing your story with us. 

Tell us your story (a little about yourself, your family, and how you spend your time).

I am a 25-year-old wife, full-time mom, praise and worship leader, and jewelry designer. I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Bill, for 5 years. My son, Liam, is 18 months old and the most amazing gift I’ve ever received. I am extremely passionate about worshiping God and leading others into His presence. 


Long before Liam came along Bill and I decided that when we had children I would leave the corporate world and stay at home. Just two years into my career I had Liam. My decision to walk away from the job was shocking to some; they simply could not understand why I would throw such a promising future away. There was no changing my mind - raising Liam full-time was something I had dreamed about since I was a little girl.

  
Once I made it to this “dream world” I had always hoped for I realized that in between the kisses, giggles, and moments of pure bliss there were also moments of being completely bored mentally. I needed to think about something, solve a problem, fix something for someone, something, anything to get my mind working again. And trust me dishes and laundry weren’t cutting it!


How and why did you begin making jewelry?

Oh and then there was also that part about our income dropping significantly. The income dive didn’t affect our bare living expenses, however, in the past if I wanted to help someone in need financially I had the freedom to do it. I could put extra money into the offering when a missionary came to town or if there was a need. I didn’t have the money to do this anymore and that was a tough thought for me. I didn’t want to leave Liam so I had to figure out something I could do from home. 


I had started making jewelry here and there a few years before Liam was born. It really was my favorite way to relieve stress and just escape from the pressures of life. So I picked up my tools again and started creating. It was a great fit – Liam napped a couple times a day and I would make jewelry.  The more I made the more people seemed to want it. Friends and family started encouraging me to start selling my work. 

What made you decide to donate all of the proceeds from your sales?

About the same time, my husband was going on a mission’s trip to an orphanage in Mexico. We had visited the same orphanage a couple years prior, but I wasn’t able to go because Liam was so young. I wanted to help in some way. I knew that these kids had nothing in comparison to what I had. I decided I would donate whatever money I made from selling jewelry.

I started out with a small table in the back of a women’s conference. I sold most of what I had and that got me pretty excited. I realized that there was something I could do to help others even though I wasn’t working outside my home. Now, I sell on etsy (Sela Designs), through my Facebook page, and in-home shows. The best part is that I can donate 100% of my profit to missions.


What charities do you support and how do you decide which charities to donate to?

I currently support Eagles’ Nest Orphanage in Soto La Marina, MX (www.wileyministries.org). Choosing to support this ministry was very easy for me because I have been there. I have played with the children and know that every penny sent there is used wisely. I also know the missionaries, how faithful they are to God, and their vision is to help people who are hurting. Currently, this is the only mission I support but I cannot wait to add more and more to the list.  

What role did your faith play in your decision to give away all your profits?

Being a Christian has everything to do with who I am and why I give. Anything good in me is only because of who God is through me and what He has done for me. I believe that loving God means loving people, not just in word but also in deed. The Bible says that the world will know that we are Christians by our love for one another and by our fruit. I want the world to see that I serve a loving, gracious, and generous God.


How has this giving affected you?

I come from a family of givers; I’ve never known anything else. Giving is a joy. It’s exciting to be able to give and bless others. I think there is a freedom that comes into your life when you learn to give because the truth is that it’s all God’s anyway we are only stewards. Money is a tool to reach the lost. 


What would you like to say to someone who is considering doing something similar?

Go for it! Make a decision and don’t turn back! It’s amazing to see what God can do when we open our hands and give. The Bible says “Give and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.” That’s exciting because then you’ll have more to give. Be faithful with little and you will be given much!

*************************************

To learn more about Eagle's Nest Orphanage including how you can support them and view their needs list, go here.

To read previous Giving of Ourselves Interviews, click here and scroll down for links.

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White Bean Enchiladas

I made this for the first time awhile ago and loved it.  Then I promptly forgot about it.  You'd think it was because I really didn't love it that much.  But, I did.  I reeeaaally did.  My mind is like a sieve these days. Seriously.  Names are the worst.  They are so carefully absorbed when I first hear them, but almost instantly leave me completely.  I even have trouble coming up with the names of people I've known for a long time.  Jamey feeds me fish oil like there's no tomorrow and, still, I forget this, that and the other thing.  I blame it squarely on having children and being a mother.  There is just not room for everything.

Back to the recipe.  Ha.  I remembered.  I surprise myself sometimes.

I recently came across it and was delighted to find it.   I added the ingredients I needed to our grocery list and wrote "White Bean Enchiladas" on my meal idea list on the fridge.  You know, so I wouldn't forget.  The funny thing was that, as I was making it, something didn't seem as I remembered, but this is life so I brushed it off until I was finished putting the enchiladas together and they were sitting on the counter waiting until Jamey called to tell me when he'd be home (it's different every night).  It hit me what was different.  When I made it the first time, I totally misread/misunderstood the ingredients and bought green salsa instead of enchilada sauce.  Yes, that was it.  The enchiladas were green last time and this time they were brownish-red.

Not that it mattered.  We liked them very much both ways.  If you twisted my arm and I had to choose?  I'd go with the green salsa version.  But, you decide.  I think you'll be very happy either way.

White Bean Enchiladas (Adapted from Cooking Light Annual Recipes 2001- such a good year for Cooking Light)  Makes 10 large enchiladas.  Your kids (and possibly even your husband) won't even know they're eating beans.

4 tbsp. sour cream
2 16-ounce cans white beans (I used Great Northern), rinsed and drained
1- 1 1/2 cups shredded blend of cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheese, divided
4-ounce can chopped green chilies (I use mild)
4 tbsp. fresh, chopped cilantro, divided, optional
2 tbsp. sliced green onions, optional
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 15-ounce jar/can of EITHER (but NOT BOTH) enchilada sauce or green salsa
water
10 8-inch flour tortillas

Combine the sour cream and white beans in a food processor until smooth.  Stir in half of the cheese, all of the chilies, onions, half of the cilantro and all of the cumin.  Set aside.

In a large non-stick skillet, combine 2/3 cup of enchilada sauce (or green salsa) with about 1/3 a cup of water.  Heat until warm.  One at a time, drop a tortilla into the sauce mixture and coat it on both sides.  Lay it on a plate and fill it with 1/4-1/3 cup of the bean filling and lay it seam side down in a 9x13 inch pan coated with cooking spray.  Repeat, making more sauce/water mixture as needed, but trying to reserve about 1/3 of the full strength sauce.  Top the enchiladas with the remaining (full strength) sauce and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.  Top with remaining cilantro, if using.

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Green Thoughts, Anyone?

I cannot wait for warmer weather- to send the kids outside to play without feeling guilty (when there's no snow to play in), to open the windows wide, to clear my flower beds to make room for green growth, to regulate my temperature by moving from sun to shade or shade to sun.

Christmas has come and gone and, daydreaming aside, it's time.  For many of us, we're already conjuring up garden plans in our heads if not on paper.

Another sign it's time to get serious is the sheer number of garden, seed and poultry catalogs we've been getting in the mail.  Somehow word has gotten out that we have a garden.  And chickens.

Usually our annual garden meeting would be held soon, but this year we're putting it off a little bit.  We're not sure what our garden will look like this summer.  Jamey graduates in May (can you believe it's been four years already?!) and he has some choices to make.  One choice would lead to a very hectic schedule for him (and therefore me) and the other would not.  We won't know what path he'll chose until March.  As much as it pains me, I know it's best to wait because depending on what happens our garden could look very different next year.  Thankfully, we would only need one year of drastic change.  Have I confused you completely?  I'm kind of confused.

If you DO know what kind of garden you want, I want to remind you of a resource we created last year that might prove to be helpful to you.  It's our {Humble} Vegetable Gardening 101 Tutorial and it includes tips on planning your garden, a planting guide (what to plant when), how to make newspaper starter pots, etc.

When we do plan our garden, you'll be the first ones to know about it.  Please tell me you all haven't planned everything yet.  It will make me feel better.  No, it won't.  Yes, it will. Pin It

Coupon Purse {by Mavis} Giveaway!

 This giveaway is closed.  See who won here.

Saving money is on a lot of people's minds these days.  We save to set money aside to pay down debt, in case of a loss of a job, for an unexpected expense, for our children's educations, and hopefully, we save money in order to share with others.

I have this friend.  Her blog name is Mavis and boy, is she a dear.  Mavis and I got to know each other via our blogs, countless emails and just recently (whoohoo!) an actual phone conversation:-).  She's the one who introduced me to swagbucks and I can't thank her enough for that.  Let me tell you a little more about her.

Just three short years ago her family-of-four's monthly grocery bill was over $800 a month.  The following year, she reigned it in to around $600 and the next year to $400.  This year (2011), Mavis has set a challenge for her and her family.  Her goal (and what she blogs about) is to spend only $100 a month for all their groceries, toiletries, take out, restaurant expenses, etc.  Yes, I said $100.

How is she doing this?  First off, Mavis has a garden and some chickens, so she grows some food for her family and her chickens grow their eggs.  She has also recently discovered the art of clipping coupons.  If you didn't know clipping coupons is an art, you need to get to know Mavis.  Mavis is one of those people who goes shopping and, at the checkout, the store pays her for what's in her cart.  It's true.  The sheer quantity of the food, toiletries, etc. she brings home within her budget is amazing.   Her weekly shopping update on her blog shows her purchases in pictures.  Her family doesn't eat everything they bring home.   Instead she pays much of it forward, donating to various causes.

She will tell you that coupon-ing is a process and is best approached with baby steps.  If you would like to learn her art, please visit her blog, 100 Dollars A Month, today to find out what Mavis can teach you that will lead to money saved.  She is going through the coupon basics on her blog this week.  So, if you're ready to save money at the grocery store, be sure and check out her blog throughout the week.

And!  The very exciting news is that Mavis has started making coupon purses!  She's opened an Etsy shop, Mavisisarockstar, and, to celebrate, is giving away one of her lovely purses here!  Each coupon purse includes- 1 handmade fabric binder cover, 1 2-inch binder, 1 notebook, 10 baseball card sleeves, 10 page protectors, 5 plastic page dividers and a few weeks of the latest coupon inserts-basically everything you need to get started!

The Giveaway:  To enter to win a coupon purse {by Mavis} of your choice of pattern (with some goodies already stuffed inside for you), please go visit Mavis' Etsy shop here.  Then, come back and tell me in the comments section below which pattern you'd like to win.  I'll choose a winner randomly on Friday!

Please one entry per household.  If you comment anonymously, please leave your first name or initial so I can identify you if you win.  If you have trouble leaving a comment, please email your entry to thyhand123@gmail.com and I will post your entry for you.

Also!!  If you order one of her coupon purses from her Etsy shop and enter "10mavisbucks" in the comments section of the order before Valentine's Day, Mavis will give you 20% off your order!!

Thank you, Mavis!

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Utterly Challenged and Inspired

I love the connections I have with cherished persons I know and am just learning to know within the blogging community.  You challenge and inspire me regularly and I want to thank you for your bold words, your obedient voice and your commitment to write truth even when you know it may be difficult to write and read.

I would encourage each of you to set aside a few moments today or tomorrow in a quiet space and read these three posts.  I know they will bless you as they have blessed me.  Have a wonderful rest of your weekend, friends!

Prostitutes and Inn-Keepers

Free

The Life I Deserve Pin It

The Part I Don't Like

I love having chickens.  I really, really do.  I love watching them out in the yard.  I love talking to them when I feed them kitchen scraps.  I love feeding our family (and other families) their eggs.  I love their little noises and how they bath themselves in dust and how they run head-down, as if they've heard of aerodynamics.

What I don't like is when we lose one to a predator.

The other afternoon, I looked out our kitchen window and saw what I thought was a hen standing underneath a bush between our house and our neighbor's house.  Now, the hen shouldn't have been there (the bush is not in the chicken yard) and I didn't have my glasses on, so I just stood there staring at her.  What I couldn't understand was why she wasn't moving, if she was, indeed, a hen and not some dark colored plastic bag that blew under the bush.  I willed my eyes to focus and soon could make out her little orange legs.  She was a hen alright.

I bundled up and headed outside with a container of scraps.  I tried my darnedest to lure her back to the hen house, but she wanted no part of leaving her bush.  Only six or so feet away, I finally spotted Merv (our rooster) standing completely still under a different nearby bush.  Uh oh.  This could mean trouble (not for me, for my chickens).

So, I left them where they obviously wanted to be and walked up to the chicken yard.  There were no chickens to be seen or heard anywhere.  My heart skipped a beat as I looked over by the chicken run at a gigantic hawk sitting atop a dead hen just outside the run.

I chased him off and he slowly lumbered up into the air and sat on a branch of our huge black walnut tree above the chicken house.  He wasn't finished eating.  Once I was out in the yard calling, our chickens began answering from all over the place.  I could hear some safe and sound in the hen house and others out in the yard huddled under brush piles and bushes everywhere.  The hawk flew off to another tree farther away and I ran inside and got Sam and Sadie (Miriam was asleep).

 At the very top of the tree in the center sits the culprit.

The three of us spent a good part of an hour coaxing all our shaken chickens from their hiding spots and into the hen house.  One sweet hen in particular was hunkered down head first, deep under a brush pile.  We tried everything to coax her out.  I didn't want to leave her there because I was afraid she'd come out later when the hawk was back (I couldn't stand watch the rest of the day) and he'd get her as well.  I gently prodded her with my broom and finally, she turned around enough to get a look at me and once she did she gladly came out.  I guess I sound like a hawk, but don't look like one.

We got all but a few back in and I shut the doors.  The ones that were left were in sheds, way in behind things making it very difficult for me to reach them.  Jamey rounded up the stragglers when he got home and took care of the carcass.  We're leaving the chickens shut in for a few days.

The whole rest of the day, I had an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach.  I know the hawk was just being a hawk, but I had been going about my merry way oblivious to the dangers that exist for our fine feathered friends.  I felt unprepared and even a tad embarrassed that the whole incident surprised me at all.  I do live in the country.  And, I do know about the food chain.  For some reason, it's okay for us to be a part of the chain, but I don't want to share the chain with others.

I'm not oblivious anymore and I'm afraid to leave the hens out again.  Maybe time will take this feeling in the pit of my stomach away.  I hope so because I really don't like it. Pin It

Homeschooling with a Toddler

Homeschooling with a toddler (18 months) is hard.  In fact, for the majority of this year, I've avoided trying to get any school work done until she goes down for her nap after lunch.  Once she's laid down, it's a mad dash to begin as I hope like crazy that she stays asleep until we're through or at least the majority of the way through our subjects.  This was working pretty well most days, but it meant that we didn't finish school until almost supper time and I need time to make supper.  More than that, I need a reprieve between school and making supper.

You know, for my sanity.

Since Christmas break, we're trying something different and it seems to be working pretty well.  Around 10am, I do a short read aloud (sometimes with Miriam beside me looking at her own book) and then Sam does his handwriting and spelling on his own (although my eagle eye is always watching).  After this, Sam does the review portions of his Saxon math worksheets.  He completes the new portions after I do the teaching later in the afternoon.  This takes care of some of the time consuming parts of school without requiring 100% of my attention, shortening our afternoon school time.

Since I still keep close by, this means Miriam is close by and this can lead to trouble.  Having quiet activities to do with her at this time is crucial.  I don't want to distract Sam, but I also don't want to leave him to his own devices completely.  The most popular quiet activity in our house right now is a gift my parents gave to Miriam for Christmas.  I passed the Rainbow Resource gift catalog onto my mom prior to Christmas because Sam had Bristle Bots on his list (also a hit around here).  She came across this book and got it for Miriam.  I've seen these before- they've been around for ages.  This one, called Busy Bible, is well made and simply precious.

I'll let the photos speak for themselves...

A warning came with the book that it is not for children under three.  There are a lot of pieces that are held in pockets (like the animals with Noah's ark and the nativity scene people and animals) that could end up in a little one's mouth or lost to the world.  (My mom attached some of the characters, like Jonah, to a ribbon so they wouldn't be lost- thanks, Mom!)

This is why we save this book for special times, like school, when I can look at it with Miriam.  I've overheard Sam say that he wishes we had three of these books so they could each have one, so as far as the age cap?  I'm not sure there is one.

The book has 12 pages and comes in a clear, sturdy plastic carrying case.  The book itself velcros shut.  It also comes with a sheet of paper that summarizes the Bible stories that go along with each page.

You know.  Just in case you're a little rusty.

What tricks do you have for homeschooling with a toddler?

No one asked me to talk about this book.  We just love it, is all.

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What I Haven't Been Writing About

Back in September, I made some changes here and started writing about living simply in order to give.  Since then, I've written numerous posts on the subject and even interviewed several women on how they give of themselves (you can find links to all these posts here).

Through this fall, as you've read these posts, have you felt like something was missing?  You can say that you did and you won't hurt my feelings.  I have experienced some pretty strong nudging at times that I was leaving something out and while I wanted to address it, I was a bit at a loss for the right words.  Imagine that.  Me at a loss for words? Ha.

So, I started praying about it and after awhile thoughts began coming together in my head and I felt ready to write.  To get started, we're going to talk a little bit about marriage.

First, let's talk about the "rules" of marriage.  Those things that we're expected to be and do when we're a wife (or husband, for that matter).  We're to be faithful (physically and emotionally).  We're to be honest, respectful and supportive even during difficult life circumstances.  We're to contribute to the running of the household- doing our part (however you and your spouse have divided up the duties) to earn a living, help with child rearing, and complete countless other tasks and chores. 

Now, even if we do and be all those things, following all those "rules", our marriage can be F L A T flat.  It can lack heart, substance, depth and love.  We can do and be all those things and if we're not in regular, meaningful communication with our spouse, our marriage can be hollow, empty and lonely.  We're going through the motions, doing the "works", but it's not what a complete, well-rounded loving marriage should look like.

Do you see where this is going?

What I felt was missing throughout the fall was the recognition that even if we live simply, even if we give to others, even if we give of ourselves, if we're not in regular, meaningful communication with God, our relationship with Him may be hollow, empty and flat.

God created us in His image!  He created us with a desire for closeness, relationship, and communication with others.  We recognize that if these things are missing in our marriages (or other relationships) that they are not all they can be.  They are not what they were intended to be.  God wants us to be in relationship with Him.  And how do you tend a relationship?  Yes, doing the things you should for the person.  But, it's the communication that makes it a complete relationship- the getting to know each other, being open and vulnerable with each other, sharing fears and joys, asking for help and giving thanks.

Please don't lose sight of the need for relationship with God when we're talking about the tangible ways we can serve Him and others.  He longs for our attention, our time and our thoughts.  He may know our thoughts regardless, but He wants us to want to share them with Him.

And, unfortunately, it's easier to ignore a hollow relationship with God than a hollow relationship with our spouse.  But, oh, dear friends, don't ignore it.  This is one relationship we cannot afford to neglect.

My first verse for memorization this month was John 15:5b.  It's as if God knew I needed help with this post.

" Those who abide in Me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from Me, you can do nothing."

Read it again, please.  Do you see?  We need to abide (to rest or dwell) in Him to bear fruit.  Without that relationship, that dwelling, our ventures are just works.

Let's bear much fruit, friends, while we're abiding in relationship with Him. Pin It

When Life Gives You Lemons

When life gives you lemons, you really shouldn't make lemonade.  You should make lemon curd.  That's what I think anyway.

We returned home from Christmas traveling to some lemons that needed using and I knew exactly what I wanted to do with them.  I first made lemon curd about eight years ago, soon after Sam was born.  I was experimenting with cheese cake recipes because I would be making cheesecakes for my sister's wedding.  One of the ones we served was a Lemon-Swirled version that called for, you guessed it, lemon curd.

And that, my friends, is where the love affair began.  Lemon curd is lemony, sweet and tart all at the same time.  Oh, and luscious.  The butter and eggs make it luscious.  Now before you write it off because you're not planning on making a Lemon-Swirled Cheesecake anytime soon, please hold on because there are few other things you should know.

1) Lemon curd is very easy to make.
2) Lemon curd freezes beautifully, so it's always at the ready.
3) You can make my favorite lemon pasta if you have lemon curd.
4) You can make Fruit Pizza with Lemon Curd (recipe below).

I hope I've convinced you.  You know, in case someone gifts you lemons.  They really are the perfect gift.

 Lemon Pasta with Asparagus

Lemon Curd (Cooking Light Annual Recipes 2001)
Yields about 1 1/3 cup.

3/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp. grated lemon rind (optional)
2 large eggs
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 large lemons)
2 tbsp. butter

Combine the first three ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring with a whisk.  Cook until sugar dissolves and mixture is light in color (about 3 minutes, see left hand photo below).  Stir in lemon juice and butter, cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk until it thickens slightly (see right hand photo below).  Cool.  Cover and chill (or freeze).  It will set up and become thicker as it cools.

 


Fruit Pizza with Lemon Curd (Adapted slightly from Cooking Light Annual Recipes 2001)
Serves 10-12

1 16 or 18 oz. package of refrigerated sugar cookie dough
Cooking spray
2-3 tbsp. red raspberry or strawberry jam
3/4 cup lemon curd
1-2 cups fresh or frozen red raspberries
1-2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1-2 fresh or canned peaches, sliced
2 tsp. sugar

Press cookie dough into a 12-inch pizza pan coated with cooking spray. (I covered my pan with foil because it's an ugly pan and it was a bit of a pain to get the pieces off the pan.  Learn from me.  Just use cooking spray.)  Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.  Let cool.  Spread jam over the cookie crust.  Spread lemon curd over the jam.  Arrange fruit on top.  (I used frozen red raspberries and blueberries, so I let them thaw on the fruit pizza for an hour before continuing.)  Sprinkle the fruit with 2 tsp. sugar.  Place under broiler for 3 minutes.  Serve immediately or let stand until ready to serve.  Best eaten the day it's made, but not too shabby the day after either.

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Smashing for Pretty Winner

And the winner of her choice of a Smashing for Pretty  penny necklace, gold dollar necklace OR a pair of double dime earrings is...

Margo from Thrift at Home

Congratulations, Margo!!  Please email me (thyhand123@gmail.com) with your name, mailing address and choice of jewelry (noted above) and I will pass this information on to Jonathan.

 Smashed Dime Necklace

And!  Don't forget- if you didn't win, but would like to purchase something from Smashing for Pretty, you'll receive 10% off your item if you place your order before February 15th and type "thyhand" in the comments section of your order.

Thanks, Jonathan!  We all wish you the best! Pin It

The Simple Wife

I don't know how many of you know about The Simple Wife blog.  Joanne, the blogger, her husband, and 9 and 12 year old daughters are in desperate need of our prayers.  On Tuesday, Joanne (age 38) suffered a major stroke and there are complications.  Her dear husband, Toben, has been keeping readers (and prayers) updated via her blog.  Please help me lift them in prayer. Pin It

Eggs Galore and A Send-Off

We've had chickens for four winters now and, for the first time, it seems as if the egg-laying stars have aligned.  Our flock of Ameracanas and both Golden and Silver Laced Wyandottes (and a few half-breeds) have always slowed down in their egg production each winter.

We've found that the two most important factors in good egg production are 1) making sure the birds have plenty of water and 2) giving them long days.  During the winter, the day light hours are significantly less and this leads to less eggs.  We hang a lamp in their roost that is on a timer.  It turns on early in the morning, shuts off when it's daylight, turns back on as the sun goes down and shuts off later in the evening.

All this to say, every winter we try to provide the perfect combination of food, water, and light (and, as always, access to the great out of doors at all times).  For some reason, since Christmas, our hens have been going above and beyond the call of duty.  They are laying machines!  This is what we came home to after Christmas travels.  We were gone a week and have about 25 laying hens, although a third of them are almost five years old.  Prior to Christmas, we were only getting a few a day.

The one thing we can think of that may have jump started this laying frenzy is that while we were away, there was snow on the ground here.  Our chickens are...well...they're wimps.  They don't like snow and refuse to walk in it.  So, while we were gone, they were holed up inside with unlimited feed (since we were away).  Normally, when there is no snow on the ground, they spend a lot of their day outside, scratching for bugs and green blades.  But even now that the snow has melted they keep laying away.

So, if you're local and you'd be interested in eggs, keep an eye on my personal facebook page and I'll put the word out when we have extras to sell.

I'm going to change the subject slightly and tell you something I've been holding off telling you.  Remember our rooster, Marv?  Well, this fall (months ago), we let him go.  No, we didn't release him into the wild.  We kind of fired him.  And, around here, if you're a rooster and we fire you, it means you're freezer bound.  If you'd like to read some of the best Marv stories and reminisce a bit with me, read here.

Marv

Marv became one of those roosters who was over-zealous in his roostery ways.  He crowed too early and too often.  He pestered the hens too much.  He turned on humans more than necessary (and even chased me around the garden a time or two).  He was beautiful and he put everything he had into his job, but he failed to consider his owners and their offspring.  Not that he should of.  He was a rooster.

Merv, Marv's son, was given a promotion and is now head rooster.  Actually, he's the only rooster.  He hardly ever crows.  He doesn't pester the hens so much (it helps that there is no competition around).  And, thanks to Marv, he's as timid as can be.  While he may be a little too timid in the protecting-the-flock department, we're more interested in our children being protected.  He's the perfect replacement.

We thought the kids would be upset about the changes, but they went with the flow and now can even collect eggs by themselves (if they stand on a bucket).

Merv

And, now, let's have a belated moment of silence for our literally fearless rooster, Marv. 

Thank you.  You may be dismissed.

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Giving of Ourselves Interview: Zoë

Do you all know Zoë yet?  Well, you should.  Zoë has a wonderful blog full of amazing recipes called Whole Eats &Whole Treats.  I've gotten to know Zoë over the past couple years through blogging and when I heard about some changes she was making in how she runs her delicious Etsy shop, Zoëdawn, I knew I wanted to interview her for this series.

Thank you, Zoë, for answering my questions.  You are a dear and I am honored to know you. 

Please tell us your story (a little about yourself, your family, and how you spend your time).
Boy, this interview started out tough. I really dislike telling people about myself. Feels like I'm writing an ad...trying to sell myself, you know? But I'm not. I want to stay right here in my big old house with my two kids and my handsome husband. So here I go: I'm your average mom and wife. There is nothing special about me. Anything I do, you can do too. I cook and I'm messy when I do it. I have a garden with an abundance of weeds. I sew (my latest project got thrown in the trash it was that bad). I clean (sometimes). I grind wheat and flour flies to the ceiling. I laugh with my kids (but I get angry with them, too). I wash dishes (and break dishes). I have house plants, which I forget to water. In a word, I'm normal.

My husband, he works on the farm with his brother and dad. We have cows. Lots of them. Brad manages our employees, does field work, breeds the cows, fixes things, and in general, works very hard for our family. I'm grateful for him every single day. I think I need to tell him that more often.

The children? Well, right now they are fighting over a toy. It's getting awfully noisy over in the corner. But I'm going to ignore them and keep talking to you guys. So, the oldest is three. She loves to color as well as boss her little brother around. He's 1. They both like to help in the kitchen, which makes for even more messes. They like to take toys from each other and scream. But at the end of the day, they wave goodnight to each other. Adorable.

 pink and blue patchwork hot pads

How and why did you initially open an Etsy shop and what do you sell?

You know, I'm not sure how I heard about Etsy in the first place, but a little over a year ago I decided I ought to open up a shop and try to sell some of the extra sets of hot pads and cloth bags I had whipped up in the sewing room. They didn't really sell. So I started creating whole grain baking mixes. They went much better.

whole wheat blueberry buckle mix

I guess I opened up my shop because I liked the idea of having some extra cash around. And it made me feel like I was helping Brad, contributing to our finances in that way. Because really, what stay-at-home mom doesn't sometimes feel like her life is pointless? I'm not saying I don't know the benefits of parenting, but for some reason, making money made me feel useful in a quick way. Raising children is tough, often intangible work. All the disciplining, wiping dirty mouths, and changing diapers really does wear on you. Selling things on Etsy gave me more immediate results. I could post something and someone would buy it. That's money in my bank account. Woohoo. But...

black and white handbag

What made you decide to donate all of the proceeds from your sales to MCC and what is MCC?

...here is where I realized I was wrong. My children are my job (and it's difficult but rewarding!) and we really don't need extra cash. We have PLENTY. More than enough. But I still enjoy sewing and cooking so I didn't want to give up my Etsy shop. Inspired by two blog posts I read (MamasMinutia and ThyHandHathProvided), I decided to donate all of the proceeds from the sales of my Etsy items to Mennonite Central Committee. MCC is, well, here, I'll let them explain:

"Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), a worldwide ministry of Anabaptist churches, shares God's love and compassion for all in the name of Christ by responding to basic human needs and working for peace and justice. MCC envisions communities worldwide in right relationship with God, one another and creation."

You can read more about them by clicking the link above. I think they are a wonderful organization. As Thy Hand put it in one of her blog posts (I can't remember which one), it's important not only to give money, time, and objects, but to give those things along with the love of Jesus Christ. Things are momentary but Christ's love is forever. And MCC does just that. So in my little stay-at-home mom way, I'm going to help them. I can't be volunteering for hours at thrift stores (1-year-olds don't have an appreciation for that sort of thing) and the cows keep our family stuck on the farm, which means I can't serve as a missionary in Timbuktu, so giving of money is a good way for me to help at this point in my life. Was that a run-on sentence? Sorry.  (Keep in mind, I'm not saying all mission work has to be done abroad...there are plenty of local people who need to hear of Christ's love and would greatly appreciate a full stomach. MCC just happens to be the venue I'm sending my money to and they do a lot of their work in other countries.)

What role did your faith play in your decision to give away your profits?

I believe Christ came to love everyone. So it's my duty, as a Christian, to help show that love to as many people as I can with the resources I have. I have the ability to sew and cook. I need to use those abilities to help others. Since hot pads and baking mixes don't really help much in eradicating hunger and telling of God's love all over the world, selling them is a way I can get the resources that DO help those people, and that's money. I can give money. Money that will feed and clothe people. Money that will tell the love of Jesus Christ through all the work that MCC does.

whole grain coconut date bar mix

How has this decision affected you?

Hmm, I don't know. I had that warm fuzzy feeling when I wrote on all my Etsy posts that I'll be donating the proceeds to MCC. Does that count? And I know that God wants me to do this. Even though I haven't actually sold anything since making this decision, I am so excited to see how much I can contribute to MCC. Who wants to be the first to help me do that?!?

What would you like to say to someone who is considering doing something similar?

Pray about it. Do it! Really, you can't go wrong. God will bless you.

All photographs courtesy of Zoëdawn.

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Simple Meal Idea: Mexican Skillet Rice

I may have mentioned it before, but Jamey and I (along with a group of other college students from across the country) spent almost four months in Xalapa, Mexico, studying the language and culture my senior year of college.  How much of the language do I remember?  Yeah, very little.  I'm hoping to re-learn Spanish along side Sam in a year or two.

Here we were celebrating Jamey's birthday at his host mother's house.   Back row left to right: Husband and wife group leaders, my tutor (whom I adored), my host mother, a very young me, Jamey's host cousin and host aunt.  Front row: a very young Jamey and his host mother.  On the table (left to right) are pambazos, birthday cake and a stromboli Jamey and I contributed.

So, as you can imagine, I really enjoyed the food while we were there- street food, cafe food, you name it.  But it just so happens that the host mother that Jamey lived with was a cake baker and my host mother, who was well-off, was into authentic Mexican cooking with a gourmet flair (imagine that).  Her meals were amazing.  Fresh fruit (local mango, papaya, etc.) and local cheese for breakfast.  Lunch was fresh tostadas or quesadillas with fresh salsa and dinners...well, there was homemade mole, roasted chicken with fruit sauces and rice.  There were different kinds of tamales and for dessert, more fruit, rice puddings and flan.  Oh, how I wish I has photographed food back then!

 A cafe in Xalapa

I jotted down many of her recipes (in Spanish).  I never attempted any of them and I'm not exactly sure why.  Yes, some of the ingredients would be a bit of a challenge to come by (but not impossible) and I would have to translate the recipe (also not impossible).  I think I've left them alone because without being made by her and without sitting in her kitchen to eat them, they just wouldn't be the same.

Jamey and I talk of going back one day.  I don't know if we will or not.  It depends on what the Lord has planned for us- oh! to be privy to those plans!

All the history aside, this next simple recipe is not one I remember having in Mexico, but I very well could have eaten something similar.  It is an authentic Mexican recipe submitted to Extending the Table by Adriana Castillo Adame who was/is from Mexico City, Mexico.  It's super easy to prepare and actually, very tasty.  Our family enjoyed it very much.

Mexican Rice Skillet (Extending the Table)
Serves 4.  My notes are in italics.

2 tbsp. oil
1 cup uncooked rice (we used brown rice)
1 small onion, minced
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup boiling water or broth (we used broth)
2 medium green peppers, cut into strips (there were some red in with my green chopped peppers)
1 cup canned or frozen corn
sour cream (optional)
shredded cheddar cheese (also optional)

In a large, heavy fry pan, heat the oil and add the uncooked rice.  Fry for 1-2 minutes.  Add the onion, garlic, 1/2 cup water and salt.  Cook, stirring occasionally until the water is absorbed.  Add the remaining water (or broth), peppers and corn.  Cover and simmer about 20 minutes if you're using white rice, longer if you're using brown until the water is absorbed and rice is tender.  Remove from heat and serve or top with sour cream or cheese.

  Palenque, Chiapas (we went to Chiapas, Mexioco during our free travel)

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Smashing for Pretty Giveaway!

Many of you are readers of my friend's blog, Mama's Minutia.  Her eldest son, Jonathan (a.k.a. Yo-Yo Boy and yes, I had permission to reveal that), started his own Etsy shop this past fall called Smashing for Pretty.  I am thrilled and honored to be hosting a giveaway for him.  Take a look at this...

Penny Necklace

Gold Dollar Necklace

 Double Dime Earrings

I'll let Jonathan explain a little bit about himself and what he does...

"Hi! I'm Jonathan. I'm an 11-year-old boy. I like crafting things, and I'm homeschooled.

One day my dad brought home some smashed pennies from the railroad track where he was working that day. Then I got the idea, "Why don't I smash some coins?" So I smashed a gold dollar and my mom liked it. She asked me to make her a necklace. And that's how I got into making jewelry.

I smash the coins in our basement. Dad brought home an angle iron and we bolted it onto a log so I could smash coins on top of it. That's where I work pretty much. Then my dad drills holes in the coins, and my mom makes the jewelry. Together, she and I run the business."  

The Giveaway:  So, here's the deal.  All you have to do is leave a comment below and you will be entered to win ONE of the three lovely pieces shown above (your choice).  Please note that your item will not look exactly, exactly the same because each coin has unique hammer marks and the clasps may be slightly different.  Please only one entry per household.  Also, if you comment anonymously, please leave me a name or initial so I can identify you if you win.  I will randomly draw a winner sometime this Friday.

There's more!  Until January 28th, if you make a purchase over at Smashing for Pretty and enter "thyhand" in the comment section of your order you'll receive 10% off the cost of the jewelry!

Thank you, Jonathan, and happy smashing!!

 All photos courtesy of Jennifer Jo/Smashing Pretty

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