tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54233181743827955922024-02-06T21:49:07.608-05:00Life Between the BunsLIFE BETWEEN THE BUNS~Welcome to my life in the sandwich generationJacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.comBlogger306125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-83307098354880704182013-01-20T18:57:00.000-05:002013-01-20T18:57:09.537-05:00My big fat Middle Eastern dinner...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know what it is about "themes", but I seem to love them. I enjoy theme parties and dinners and even decorating. Last night, by special request from my brother Don, I served a (belated) birthday dinner for my sister-in-love Marcie that consisted of simple Middle East inspired dishes. This kind of cooking is not complicated at all, but it does take a little investment of love and time. For now, I'm happy with these easy-to-make and tasty recipes which I've collected from several sources. Perhaps sometime I will expand my knowledge and expertise to include some of the more "mysterious" dishes.</div>
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My first introduction to this kind of food came 42 years ago when a friend I worked with, who happened to be Lebanese, would bring yummy spinach pies for her lunch and share them with me. She gave me her grandmother's recipe and I've enjoyed making these myself from time to time.</div>
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Fatayer (Spinach Pies)</div>
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Two handfuls flour</div>
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salt, sugar, yeast, warm water</div>
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(I used about 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp. salt, and dissolved 1 pkg. yeast in 1 c. warm water.)</div>
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Add yeast & water mixture to dry ingredients, stir together, then knead. Roll into small balls and put on cookie sheet, covering with a towel and let stand for at least an hour.</div>
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In a bowl, mix chopped fresh spinach, chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 tsp. dried mint, 2 Tbsp. lemon juice, 2 Tbsp. oil, salt & pepper, and 1 small onion (grated).</div>
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Roll out balls into a flat circle, and put about 2 tsp. of spinach mixture in the center. Fold dough over to form a triangle shape and pinch edges. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet. Brush with a little oil. Bake @ 375 degrees until a golden color.<br />
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Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)</div>
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These are a favorite of ours. We eat them hot or cold and love them. I've made them about once a year for the last 20 years or so, having been given this recipe at a church event. </div>
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1 jar (8 oz.) grape leaves </div>
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1 # ground meat (beef is fine) * If you would rather make these "meatless", simply double the amount of rice, and use vegetable broth instead.</div>
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1 cup cooked rice</div>
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1 cup finely chopped onions</div>
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1/4 cup pine nuts</div>
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1/4 cup tomato puree</div>
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2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley</div>
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2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice</div>
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1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill</div>
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1 clove garlic, minced</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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2 cups beef broth</div>
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Carefully remove leaves from jar, drain in colander, and remove stems. Set aside. Combine other ingredients, except the beef broth. Mix well. Lay grape leaves on work surface, shiny side down, and place about 2 tsp. mixture on each leaf, close to the base. <br />
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Fold the sections of leaf around mixture and roll to completely enclose, making a neat roll. Line casserole dish with some of the leaves and layer rolls on top. Cover layers with a few more leaves and repeat until all mixture is used. Pour beef broth over rolls. Cover dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees for about an hour. <br />
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Note: Do not be intimidated by the $40/# price of pine nuts! I made a <i>double</i> recipe of these and that translated to 1/8 of a pound, or about $5 worth of pine nuts, and made over 50 dolmades. You can buy these in very small quantities. They are the essential ingredient in these delicious treats!<br />
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I serve them drizzled with olive oil and crumbled feta cheese</div>
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Tabbouleh</div>
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I always feel like I'm eating really healthy when I have Tabbouleh. The main ingredients are bulgur, a whole grain and high fiber wheat, and fresh parsley. A friend gave me this recipe years ago and it is the only one I use.</div>
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1 cup bulgur wheat, soaked in 2 cups cold water for 1 hour, then drained with a sieve.</div>
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1 chopped fresh tomato</div>
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1/2 cup chopped onion</div>
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1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped</div>
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2 Tbsp. fresh chopped mint</div>
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Mix the above and set aside.</div>
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Dressing: </div>
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1/4 c. olive oil</div>
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1/4 c. lemon juice</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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1/4 tsp. pepper</div>
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dash cinnamon</div>
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Mix dressing ingredients and combine with Tabbouleh mixture. Note: I use this same dressing recipe for a tossed romaine lettuce salad with cucumbers, tomato, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. It is delicious!</div>
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Hummus</div>
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This recipe came from cooks.com. I was looking for something quick and easy that tasted like the hummus from our favorite Middle Eastern restaurant, Aladdin's. This fills the bill! I made this in my food processor but you could also use a blender. I like it very creamy and smooth and it is easy to make up ahead of time and refrigerate. Serve with pita bread.</div>
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2 (15 1/2 oz.) cans chick peas (garbanzos), fully drained</div>
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1/4 c. fresh lemon juice</div>
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2 Tbsp. sesame oil</div>
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1/8 tsp. garlic powder</div>
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olive oil to drizzle on top<br />
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Lebanese Chicken</div>
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(I didn't get a good photo of this, but you can see </div>
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it in a photo toward the end, on the far right)</div>
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This recipe also came from cooks.com. It is the simplest way I've ever made chicken and oh so tender and tasty. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish, sprinkle with fresh ground pepper and sweet basil (be generous!) Do not salt the chicken, as the lemon juice makes it unnecessary. Fill the baking dish to about 1/2 inch deep with lemon juice. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes.</div>
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Felafel</div>
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My daughter-in-law, Ellie, passed this recipe on to me. It is very good, but I have to admit I need a little more practice. The first time I fried these, I think I used to much oil and they tended to fall apart. The second time I just put a small amount of oil in a fry pan, but I think I let it get too hot as they were frying a little too fast. Next time I will try a combination of less oil in the skillet and medium high heat. But these are very yummy, especially eaten with the tahini-lemon sauce.</div>
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Two 15 oz. cans chick peas (garbanzo beans)</div>
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4 medium closed garlic, minced</div>
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1 tsp. tumeric</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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1/2 cup finely minced onion or 6 scallions, minced</div>
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1/4 cup packed minced fresh parsley</div>
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1/4 cup water</div>
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1 Tbsp. lemon juice</div>
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a few dashes of cayenne pepper</div>
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1/3 cup flour</div>
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oil for frying</div>
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Rinse the chick peas and drain them well. Combine all ingredients except flour in a food processor or blender. Add flour and stir until thoroughly combined. Cook right away OR store in refrigerator for several days in tightly covered container. When ready to cook, heat a heavy skillet and add about 3 Tbsp. oil. Drop batter by tablespoons full into the pan, flattening each slightly, like a small, thick pancake. Saute` for about 10 minutes on each side, until golden and crisp. Add small amounts of extra oil to the pan as needed throughout cooking. Place the cooked Felafel on a plate lined with paper towels and if necessary, keep warm in a 300 degree oven until serving time.</div>
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Left: lemon/olive dressing (see "Tabbouleh", above)</div>
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Right: Tahini-lemon sauce, especially good with Felafel</div>
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Tahini-Lemon Sauce</div>
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3/4 cup sesame tahini</div>
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5 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice</div>
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1 small to medium clove garlic, minced</div>
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3/4 ~ 1 1/2 cups water (depending on desired thickness)</div>
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1/2 ~ 1 tsp. salt, to taste</div>
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a handful of very finely minced fresh parsley</div>
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optional: dash cayenne pepper, to taste</div>
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Place tahini, lemon juice, and garlic in food processor (or a blender). Begin to process. Slowly drizzle in the water, checking every now and then to monitor the consistency. When it is as thick/thin as you want it, turn off the machine. Transfer to a small container and season to taste with salt, parsley, and cayenne. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready for use. This recipe also came from Ellie. I can't wait to try it as a dip for fresh veggies. It will keep for several weeks stored in the refrigerator in an air tight container.</div>
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Tzatziki (cucumber dip)</div>
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This is one of the better known Greek recipes, used for fresh vegetable dips or on pita sandwiches. I copied this from a magazine some years back. This is a fairly large recipe, and it can be halved if desired.</div>
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2 mini cucumbers</div>
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8 scallions </div>
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2 cloves garlic</div>
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4 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint</div>
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salt & pepper to taste</div>
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large carton of plain yogurt</div>
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Blend all together in food processor or blender. </div>
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Baklava</div>
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Last but not least, I use this Baklava recipe I got from my sister Barb many years ago. I only tweaked it slightly to accommodate the size of the box of Phyllo. This is so easy to make, I don't know why I don't make it more often. On second thought, yes I do. It is full of butter and nuts...but well worth a special treat now and then! And there will be plenty to give some away!</div>
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1 1/2 # finely ground walnuts (use food processor)</div>
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1 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
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1/4 tsp. ground cloves</div>
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1 cup sugar</div>
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3 sticks butter, melted</div>
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1 # package Phyllo sheets at room temperature</div>
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Mix ground nuts, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl and set aside. Grease cookie sheet with sides with melted butter. Layer sheets of Phyllo one at a time and brush on melted butter between each. After 10 sheets, spread one half of walnut mixture, then layer balance of sheets in the same way. After laying 10 more sheets, spread balance of walnut mixture on. When finished layering all the sheets, cut diamond shapes through top layers only. Bake at 325 degrees for about an hour, but don't burn. </div>
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While the Baklava is baking, make the syrup. In a saucepan on the stove, boil 1 cup water, 1 lemon slice, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice and 1 whole clove for about 20 minutes. Discard lemon slice and clove and add 1/2 cup honey to mixture.</div>
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When the Baklava is finished baking, pour 1/2 of the above syrup over the top. Wait 20 minutes, then pour remaining syrup on top. </div>
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I prepared all the food ahead of time except for the chicken. Toward the end of the cooking time for the chicken, I put the Fatayer and Felafel back into the oven to reheat, as well as some foil-wrapped pita bread.<br />
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We had some hot mint tea with our meal which I simply brewed with natural peppermint tea bags. And I'll let you in on a secret. While preparing these recipes, I ran out of fresh mint and so I opened a couple tea bags and used the dried mint and it worked just fine.<br />
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And now I'm happy that I have all my favorite Middle East recipes in one place. Tell me if you try any of them, and let me know if you have some that you would like me to try!</div>
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Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-55205422827291651182013-01-04T08:59:00.000-05:002013-01-04T08:59:46.403-05:00Filling in the blanks..<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been missing in action in the blogosphere for 3 months! I've been busy living life without any leftover time or energy to write about it! But it's a new season and a new year, and with the rest of the world, I've turned a new page on the calendar. </div>
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Before proceeding I just wanted to briefly fill in the blanks...</div>
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*For the first time in as long as I can remember, I am happy to say that I fully embraced this past Fall season. I love summer so much that I usually slip into a little self-pity party when it's all over ~ something like being told to put all my toys away and go to bed. I don't know why this past year was different. Perhaps it was a good fruit from my earlier resolve to live each and every day intentionally and to the fullest. I loved decorating my home more than ever with pumpkins and leaves and good smelling candles, and I also busied myself in my kitchen more than ever, enjoying fall soup making, baking, and just nesting in general. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to have our three SC grandboys stay with us for several days in early November while their parents celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary with a trip to NYC!</div>
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Pumpkin Spice Pancakes</div>
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*My brother Don finally had his stem cell transplant in mid-November. We are all thrilled that he is recovering well and gaining strength every day. His numbers are good, and he is back to work on a part time basis again. PRAYER CHANGES THINGS!</div>
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*Thanksgiving was way different for us this past year. For the first time ever, we had no kids or grandkids around our table. It was just us and our two mothers. I still did the traditional Thanksgiving meal, just on a somewhat smaller scale. We were able to talk in complete sentences, as I like to say when there aren't children around, so it was a special time with our moms. A highlight of the season was our participation in our church's Thanksgiving basket outreach.</div>
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My mom came over the day before Thanksgiving to help bake pies and make the turkey dressing~a longstanding tradition of ours!</div>
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*Our Christmas season was merry and bright! So many wonderful things to do in the month of December that have become traditions for us: The annual Christmas tree display at the Knight Center; the presentation of The Nutcracker at the Civic Theater; The Tuba Christmas concert at The EJ Thomas building; our church's annual Christmas concert...Hubby and I took an evening to do a craft together (small "blackboard" signs with names of Jesus to decorate three small pencil trees); much baking and crafting with the grandchildren...I hosted a small but fun afternoon Christmas Tea for my new swapping friends; Hubby played Santa to five families that I chose from among new friends as well, blessing 12 children on one snowy night! Our annual Lichi family Christmas party was a huge success, with four generations being present; church on Christmas Eve, my favorite day of the year... And to top it all off, our South Carolina family was here to spend a week with us, and we had 14 here for Christmas Day dinner and festivities. </div>
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*My heart is full, my body is tired, my mind is spinning with thoughts of the new year and all the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities that lie ahead. I am grateful for God's provision and care of us in the past year. And I'm looking forward to reconnecting with you here, my friends! Happy New Year and God bless us, everyone!</div>
Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-35871045766086306592012-09-22T20:46:00.000-04:002012-09-22T20:49:41.228-04:00♫ On the first day of Au-tumn ♫<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had picked up a large head of cabbage from our local farmer's market recently that needed to be used, and today a sweet friend gave me two beautiful smaller heads from her garden. I've been in the mood to make stuffed cabbage rolls and today I did! I'd forgotten how easy this dinner is to make. Here's how:</div>
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I rinsed off the cabbages and peeled away the top layer. Then I placed them in a large pot and covered them with water. I put a lid on the pot and brought the water to boil. I turned the heat off and just let them steam for about 10 minutes. I carefully drained the water off and let the cabbages cool until I could handle them. I know everyone has an idea of the "easiest" way to do this, but this is my method and I'm content with it! </div>
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Once I could handle the cabbages, I took a sharp knife and cut a ring around the core, and gently pulled it out. The cabbage leaves separate easily.</div>
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In a large bowl, I mixed the following:</div>
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2# ground chuck</div>
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1/2 c. uncooked regular white rice</div>
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1 Tbsp. finely chopped onion</div>
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1/2 c. water</div>
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Then I put about a tablespoon of the meat mixture on each leaf of cabbage, rolled them, tucking in the sides, and placed them seam side down in an oven proof crock or pan.</div>
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To make the sauce, I heated 2 Tablespoons of Crisco in a saucepan and added a Tablespoon of finely chopped onion. When the onion started to get soft, I added one Tablespoon of vinegar, one Tablespoon (Wondra) flour, a tsp. garlic salt, and a 48 oz can of tomato JUICE. I brought this to a boil and poured it on top of the stuffed cabbages.</div>
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Lastly, I covered the oven proof pan and baked the cabbage rolls at 375℉ for 1 1/2 hours. I actually doubled this recipe which yielded a pan for us, a pan for the freezer, and a pan to give away! </div>
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It was a good day for comfort food, just like Mom used to make!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1</i></b></span></div>
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Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-84010235083658164882012-09-17T00:53:00.000-04:002012-09-17T00:53:22.830-04:00Sin and the kitchen floor...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Recently we decided to take some money my hubby earned and give it to Lowe's in exchange for a new kitchen floor. The one we had was really pretty over 17 years ago when it was very white and shiny. I worked hard to keep it that way too for a long time. Eventually however it lost it's no-wax feature and became a real source of aggrevation as I struggled to make it look as clean as possible. But no matter how hard I tried, time, kids, and wear and tear had taken its toll and it just never looked really clean anymore. </div>
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So we went from one extreme to the other, this time choosing a darker laminate that has a random pattern that looks something like stone. It's amazing how I don't spend nearly as much time cleaning the new floor. It just doesn't "look" dirty. I gleefully posted on Facebook: "So, if you change out your all-white kitchen floor for a darker, patterned one, the same dirt accumulates, but you don't see it, right? works for me!"</div>
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A friend commented: "When the sun shines in and shows all the dust I thought I'd cleaned, it helps me remember that in God's light, I'm more sinful than I appear!"</div>
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Now isn't THAT the Gospel Truth!</div>
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And it is actually something I've been thinking a lot about lately too. I<i> know</i> I am more sinful than I appear. And I bet you are too. Just like there are areas of my home I keep hidden from visitors, there are hidden places in my heart that are messy at best, but when God shines His light on them, they are exposed for what they are...dirty, sinful rooms that need a makeover.</div>
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God's shining light is a good thing. I'm thankful He cares enough about me to show me where my thoughts, words, or deeds are not expressing His pure nature~areas that He wants to clean up and replace with something new, clean, and beautiful.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>"Search me, O God, and know my heart!</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>Try me and know my thoughts!</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>See if there be any grievious way in me,</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>And lead me in the way everlasting!"</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><b><i>~Psalm 139:23-24~</i></b></span></div>
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Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-39684516669303037152012-09-06T00:16:00.000-04:002012-09-06T00:16:45.941-04:00Where am I?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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More than a few years ago now, our younger son was a new driver and out on a date with his then girlfriend, now wife. We were at home in bed, though of course not asleep. It was nearing the time that he should have been home, and the phone rang. My husband answered it, only to hear our son's near frantic voice: <i>"Where am I?" </i>As it turned out, he was on his way home and a fire truck was blocking his normal route and traffic was redirected, causing him to become disoriented in an unfamiliar neighborhood in downtown Akron. His father talked him back onto the right roads that would get him safely home. We've had tons of laughs over the years at this memory and it's sure to be a funny story passed down through the generations. </div>
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There have been several times in my own life when I've stopped to ask myself the question, <i>"Where am I?"~n</i>ot because of being lost while out driving late at night, but because circumstances beyond my control sometimes make me feel lost and disoriented. Roadblocks I never planned on appear out of nowhere, and I'm forced to move in a different direction or to think in a new, better way. </div>
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Most of us like to feel settled in to what becomes comfortable and familiar in our lives. We like predictability, whether it is knowing a paycheck will be deposited into our account every couple of weeks, seeing our spouse go off to work and come home around the same time every day, or just doing the things we enjoy that become happy traditions for us.</div>
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Getting older and feeling it is an unexpected change that can be difficult to wrap our arms around. The energy we had just a few years ago is gone and we find we don't have the stamina or strength to do many of the things we used to do at the pace we used to do them. On days like that, I find myself wondering <i>"Where am I?" </i>along the continuum of life ~ will I live to be an old lady telling stories to my great grandchildren from a rocking chair, or am I already almost at the end of my journey here?</div>
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Then there are the times I try to take a personal spiritual assessment test. <i>"Where am I?</i>" in terms of my eternal relationship with God and my relationships with people? Am I resting in the knowledge that God is "for" me and that whatever might be a surprise to me in life was no surprise to Him and He is weaving this tapestry into something very beautiful? Am I always looking to make and keep peace with friends and family, so that I can look forward with confidence and back without regrets? </div>
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When my brother got his cancer diagnosis ten months ago, one of the first things he wanted people to understand was that eventually all of us will be thrown an unexpected curve ball in life, and when that day comes, we will need an internal compass to help and guide us through difficult times. </div>
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Friend, don't wait till the turmoil comes. Jesus said, <i>"I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father but by Me."</i> God has provided that Compass for us and we don't have to live our lives in fear, despair, or anxiety, no matter where we find ourselves or what our circumstances may be. Even when our world is turned upside down, our heavenly Father will show us the way to go and lead us safely home. </div>
Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-6276377787879227222012-08-17T11:34:00.001-04:002012-08-17T11:37:57.215-04:00I'd rather wear out than rust out...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Years ago my grandparents were in a fun local seniors band and that was their slogan. I've sort of adopted it as my life's theme. It's another way of saying something else I often repeat: "I want to live till I die." </div>
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Yesterday I wanted to do something special with the grandchildren, since there is only one more week until school starts. I knew I was on my own with three of them, and I was at a loss to come up with a plan for the day. We've done a lot of the usual already: the zoo, the local parks, hiking, swimming, the library, baking, crafts, a lemonade stand, the flea market, and playing in Grandma's park (our backyard). </div>
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Before they arrived yesterday morning, I did something I often do when I feel a lack of direction for the day ahead. I prayed. "Lord, I need you to order my day. I know for sure there are two things that you have promised to give for the asking: forgiveness and wisdom. I need both. Please give me an idea of something fun to do with the kids today."</div>
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It wasn't very long until I thought about taking them to Ohio's Amish country, located in Holmes County and a little more than an hour's drive away. It would get us out of town and into the beautiful countryside, and I thought they would love tasting the cheese at Heini's. But could I handle three of them on my own for such a venture? I'd never gone there by myself before, but I knew I kept a detailed map of Amish Country in my car. And I had Dora, my faithful GPS, plus a stroller. Confidence rose and I felt my prayer had been answered.</div>
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When I finally got everyone dressed, fed, and buckled tightly into their carseats, I pulled out of the garage and stopped. I announced to the kids that whenever grandma and papa go on a trip, we always say a prayer first. So I prayed out loud for a safe and fun day and gave thanks for the beautiful weather and our special time together. Simple and to the point. A teachable moment too. </div>
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There were many more teachable moments, especially once we got off the highway and onto the country roads. We took turns spotting grazing cows, baby goats, lots of horses, beautiful farms and rolling hills. We started counting how many horses and buggies we saw until they became a common scene. We looked for houses without any electrical lines attached to them, and we saw lots of clothes being dried outside in the breeze. I pointed out several small Amish school houses. We talked about some of the differences between the Amish and the Mennonites, who also populate the area. In answer to my granddaughter's question, I explained that even though it is called "Amish Country", that we were indeed still in the United States! We talked about the difference between being "in the country" and "in the city". </div>
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Our first stop was the Ashery Country Store. Located in Fredericksburg, Ashery's is a bulk food store I've enjoyed going to since my own kids were young. I was pleasantly surprised at how much the store has expanded and the grandkids loved that there were free samples throughout ~ candy, pretzels and dips, even sassafras tea. When I was looking for a certain item, I inquired to a woman I recognized had been there for probably 20 years! Even though the store had changed slightly, it really did seem like time had stood still here! People were so friendly too, stopping to chat and admire the grandchildren. There are some interesting facts at the Ashery website, found <a href="http://www.asherycountrystore.com/">here.</a></div>
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Ten minutes farther down the road is Heini's, where cheese-making operations have been going on for 75 years. It takes a little time to walk around the store and sample every cheese they sell. And behind large glass windows we could see the workers cleaning out the huge vats where they had made cheese earlier in the day. We paused to watch part of a video which showed the process. </div>
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On her own, Elylah decided to keep a little scorecard of ranking her favorite cheeses!<br />
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Ethan: "Grandma look! Mouse cheese!"<br />
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Some unusual varieties included rainbow fudge cheese.</div>
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We left Heini's and drove a few more miles down the road to "downtown" Berlin. Main Street is full of tiny little primitive looking shops and I knew of a restaurant where we could get some lunch. I didn't try to take the kids inside any of the shops (I'm not THAT crazy!) but we enjoyed strolling up and down the street a little. I did take notice of lots of "new" shops that weren't there the last time I was in Berlin, and I'll go back to check them out another time when I can freely browse! </div>
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We waited about 15 minutes in line to go into Boyd's, a great sandwich shop in the heart of things. Again I was stunned to realize a waitress was someone I recognized from more than a decade ago. The place was just as busy as always, filled with visitors from all over. The kids wanted home made chicken noodle soup, and I had a half-order of a hot roast beef sandwich, my favorite when I go to Amish country. Apologizing for the mess we left, I gave the waitress a good tip. She chatted with me for a minute, and we were on our way.</div>
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The timing worked out perfectly and I drove the kids directly home. They slept the entire hour. I'm still glowing with memories of this perfect, gifted day. God is good. And I thank Him!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 12px;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given." </span></b></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 12px;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">James 1:5</span></b></i></span></div>
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Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-64789527846155849232012-08-12T13:54:00.000-04:002012-08-12T18:11:32.927-04:00The World Needs More Pie...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Anyone who knows me knows I do love to bake pies. I have my own favorites: peach, apple, cherry, lemon meringue, pumpkin, chocolate, peanut butter, and vegetable/meat quiches. On my to-do list is finding time to experiment with some other varieties. </div>
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If I lived near The American Gothic House in Eldon, Iowa, I would beg Beth M. Howard for a job at the Pitchfork Pie Stand, where she has made peace with herself through making people happy with her pies. In fact, she has written a book chronicling her journey into pie making: <i>Making Piece, a Memoir of Love, Loss and Pie</i>. It just sounds like so much fun! She and her team have actually traveled to third world countries to teach pie-baking.</div>
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I saw a recipe a few months ago in a magazine for "hand pies" so I've tired my "hand" at it a couple of times recently. I just use the same pie crust recipe I always use, and so far I've only used an apple filling. I have found I can get about 6 hand pies from one pie crust. These are great when you want to just take a little treat to someone.</div>
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One time I was asked to make 5 cherry pies for a Valentine's Day appreciation dinner our small group put on to thank our church's youth group leaders. That was really easy since my pie crust recipe makes 5 crusts, and I just needed to make 2 batches.</div>
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I have made the pumpkin pies for our family Thanksgiving celebrations for years. I just use the recipe on the Libbey's pumpkin can and double it to make four large pies.</div>
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I've posted the pie crust recipe before, but it is the one I use exclusively, so here it is again. My aunt Mary Ann gave me this recipe back in 1967, 45 years ago, so why would I change now? Sometimes I even make the pie crust one day, divide into 5 equal sized balls, wrap individually and either refrigerate or freeze them. When ready to use, I let them come to room temperature before I start rolling them out. </div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #663300;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Never-Fail Pie Crust</span></span></i></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">cold water</span></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Combine flour, salt and baking powder in a large bowl. Add shortening and work into the flour with two knives until course, about the size of peas, (or use a pie crust cutting tool.) Into a one cup liquid measuring cup, break one egg and beat slightly with a fork. Add vinegar, and then enough cold water to make one cup liquid. Add this to the flour/shortening mixture and mix into a good consistency for rolling. Note: In recent years I have been using a very finely ground flour...like cake flour. I have found that I can eliminate 1/2 cup of shortening when I use the fine flour. Roll the crusts out one at a time on a floured surface, being careful not to over work the dough.</span></span></span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jfgREA3nLjylfslVtJ86t3dUWAJn2i_ztnyWRS5MwXEoXaBIVDTYdoCKjOGqp1YB-J4dt_mAfXil3JvgB5l1SYhDDFve-rMErSGaWYAzkVF8OWz_4XiXdRE8vwOzP1_TFItBFO3Xwso/s1600/IMG_5911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jfgREA3nLjylfslVtJ86t3dUWAJn2i_ztnyWRS5MwXEoXaBIVDTYdoCKjOGqp1YB-J4dt_mAfXil3JvgB5l1SYhDDFve-rMErSGaWYAzkVF8OWz_4XiXdRE8vwOzP1_TFItBFO3Xwso/s320/IMG_5911.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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For a great apple pie, here's what I do:</div>
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First I have my pie crusts ready and the pie plate lined with the crust. Then I take 6-7 medium sized granny smith apples, peel, core, and slice thinly. As the apples are being prepared, I put them in a bowl with a couple tablespoons of lemon juice to keep them from turning brown. To all the sliced apples, add 3/4-1 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. Toss gently and fill crust-lined pie pan. If I remember, I might add 1-2 Tablespoons of butter on top of the apple mixture. Then I cover with the top crust. I take my kitchen scissors and cut the perimeter of the crusts so they just barely hang over the pie plate and they are even. Then I carefully tuck the upper crust in under the bottom crust, then flute the edges with my fingers. Then I make about 6 small slits in the upper crust. Lastly, I brush on a very thin coat of milk on the upper crust and sprinkle the whole top with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake the pie for about 50 minutes at 400℉. </div>
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There is no question that I fully agree with Beth Howard, <i>The world needs more pie!</i> How about you?</div>
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<br /></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-42956608589368958012012-08-06T06:03:00.002-04:002012-08-06T06:03:36.492-04:00Waking up in faith...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXonDxQRgILsEAo9pEBdQT9XHHUixHMBJxM6Ch3kjOYJ-5-YmwPbIYXGXEJXLxv_NyNQ107xtxxfmN39Hivz5mfh-YHxHCowakUVLO5IykBiRKOsxOSgVIB1CvUl3azS3TIUyvRPtudg/s1600/IMG_4860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXonDxQRgILsEAo9pEBdQT9XHHUixHMBJxM6Ch3kjOYJ-5-YmwPbIYXGXEJXLxv_NyNQ107xtxxfmN39Hivz5mfh-YHxHCowakUVLO5IykBiRKOsxOSgVIB1CvUl3azS3TIUyvRPtudg/s320/IMG_4860.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I always look forward to the short Sunday prayers that my friend, Dee, puts on FaceBook and on her blog at <a href="http://lookuptoday.blogspot.com/">One Foot Out of the Box</a>. This week she mentioned she was thankful to "wake up in faith". That phrase drew me in and got me to thinking about what it means.</div>
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Contrary to what some might initially think, faith itself is a gift...a gift from God. It is not something that we can muster up on our own with enough will power to get us through life. Faith is instrumental in securing our eternal salvation...God's faithfulness in loving us, Christ's faithfulness in dying for us, the Spirit's faithfulness in wooing us. When we experience the new birth, that same faith is imparted to us and enables us to believe and become children of God. (Did you know that everyone is not a child of God? It's true...but that can be a topic for another time!)</div>
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I think what my friend was referring to was her thankfulness that in waking up to a new day, she has the assurance that she is safe, happy, and secure in facing the day because she can have peace in knowing that God has her in the palm of His hand. </div>
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I woke up just a bit too early this morning, but I'm happy to say that I have woken up in faith. I don't know what today will bring, but I know God is in control and He has a plan. And at the end of the best or the worst days, I know He loves me still. He has given me the gift of faith which enables me to believe that no matter what, He has my best interests at heart. He is for me, and He is working all things together for good. I can face any day believing that!</div>
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There will be another day to wake up in faith. I love my life and all the wonderful relationships I have and the beautiful world we live in, but I know someday the curtain will be drawn. Unless Jesus Christ returns first, this life as I know it will come to an end and I will close my eyes in death. And so will you. But because of the gift of faith, we can know for certain that we will wake up to a new and glorious life safe forever with God. </div>
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Did you wake up in faith this morning? </div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bf9000;"><b>"...for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have commited unto Him against that day." 2 Timothy 1:12</b></span></i></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-44658407003490143592012-07-30T00:31:00.000-04:002012-07-30T14:12:09.548-04:00no answers here...<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have an aunt who passed away a few days ago. She died alone and without the love of many friends or family. Most likely she suffered from mental illness. I'm obviously not a doctor but looking back, I would guess in her earlier years she probably had what we now call bipolar disorder. I doubt that she was ever treated for any of her emotional disturbances. In later years she became mean-spirited and alienated herself from those who wanted and tried to love her. </div>
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I don't know how this happens and I don't know what, if anything, could have been different. I'm feeling regrets for not reaching out to her in the last few years when I learned how alone she was and how difficult it was for her immediate family. I don't like to live with regrets...in fact I try to make a point not to. But I am living with this one. </div>
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I haven't been close to Aunt Nancy in probably 25 years. I have absolutely no explanation for that. She didn't live all that far away. And I liked her. I liked the Aunt Nancy I knew when I was growing up. I saw her often in those days, and by the time I was about 12 years old, she hired me to babysit. I admired her many talents. She was an accomplished seamstress. She was always coming up with a new craft to create. I still use Christmas tree ornaments she hand made decades ago. My grandchildren use a baby blanket she made for my younger son. They play with the Care Bear she made for my older son. We baked and sold Christmas cookies together for several years. We did craft shows together.</div>
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I remember there was always lots of intensity whenever Aunt Nancy was around. She was my mother's younger sister, and she lived her life a little more on the wild side than we did. She did a lot of things we didn't do as a matter of fact: she smoked, she drank, she played bingo, she used course language. And oh my could she get mad at the drop of a hat if something didn't go the way she wanted. </div>
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I still liked her. I admired her energy. I was impressed that her house was always clean and quite beautiful. She had a lot of knick knacks and some antiques and all kinds of interesting stuff. I wanted a house that looked like hers someday. She worked hard at it and I think some of that did rub off on me.</div>
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When my cousin, Aunt Nancy's daughter, had a baby out of wedlock, my aunt helped raise her granddaughter. Years passed and the little girl grew up and has a husband and children of her own now, and lives within walking distance of me. The other night we chatted on line after Aunt Nancy died. She said she and her mom and the others all wish things could have been "different" ~ meaning that the relationships weren't good. I told of how much her grandmother loved her when she came along, and how she helped her mother take care of her. </div>
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I told her to hang on to the good memories and let God sort out the rest. That's all I can do now too. I don't know that it would have done any good for me to contact Aunt Nancy and try to make amends for...what?? There was never anything amiss between us as far as I knew. But all around me I knew things were not right in her relationships with others close to me and those who she should have been close to. Maybe that's why I stayed away. Maybe I didn't want to chance my own memories being tarnished. That's not a real good excuse, is it? But it's the only one I can think of. Maybe I knew in my heart I couldn't change her. Maybe I was afraid she would reject me as she had rejected others. I don't know. But I will hold onto the good memories and let God sort out the rest. </div>
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I have a favorite quote from the movie, <i>A River Runs Through It</i>. The Reverend Maclean, a Presbyterian minister, is speaking to his congregation after the death of his wayward and rebellious son, Paul:</div>
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<i>"Each one of us here today will at one time in our lives look upon a loved one who is in need and ask the same question: We are willing to help, Lord, but what, if anything, is needed? For it is true we can seldom help those closest to us. Either we don't know what part of ourselves to give or, more often than not, the part we have to give is not wanted. And so it is those we live with and should know who elude us. But we can still love them ~ we can love completely without complete understanding."</i></div>
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Today I choose to love Aunt Nancy completely without complete understanding. I had many opportunities to witness the good fruit of her life before whatever emotional or mental illness it was that overtook her. I choose today to remember the Aunt Nancy I knew and admired, yes loved so many years ago. I choose today to weep with those who weep for their loss, mainly the loss of what should have been and now never will be. And I recommit myself to live today and every day to the fullest and seek to keep peace in all my relationships.</div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bf9000;"><b>"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18 NIV</b></span></i></div>
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<br />Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-84459491697435127152012-07-18T15:21:00.000-04:002012-07-18T19:07:26.907-04:00Take a hike!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvv-oLzTSnlHRN5G6HrjQI1vp9LOnedD5ZWO5kAz8IJuVt3NelMQatyjHbsfU47CCFnMAuzSCL9a1qxPcjqRF1QeNLZe3AjYdUDxq7zpHeJpE1ebFMG0apl4iTYMoF2utuN5N_R7v9zOw/s1600/IMG_0564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvv-oLzTSnlHRN5G6HrjQI1vp9LOnedD5ZWO5kAz8IJuVt3NelMQatyjHbsfU47CCFnMAuzSCL9a1qxPcjqRF1QeNLZe3AjYdUDxq7zpHeJpE1ebFMG0apl4iTYMoF2utuN5N_R7v9zOw/s320/IMG_0564.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(clicking on pictures will enlarge them)</div>
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Three energetic little children arrived at my house this morning all dressed in clean clothes and ready for the day. From "no where" the thought entered my mind to take them to the Seiberling Nature Realm, part of the Summit County Metro Parks System. I'm ashamed to say that though this particular conservation park is only about 10 miles away, I've never been to it before! I was in for a very pleasant surprise!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFiLPE8gLtmrOewTRk4lyWmN21d0Hzz5guLXayOUuQ1nia_7nGygg32OPW0HShp9muX-MkojVzVwVOb38v1k8hkRxkF7OCNVbsEIHP2fNPzaF_gYZyM5H4zTZ83zcmQ-38aTz_VYEzdM/s1600/IMG_0570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFiLPE8gLtmrOewTRk4lyWmN21d0Hzz5guLXayOUuQ1nia_7nGygg32OPW0HShp9muX-MkojVzVwVOb38v1k8hkRxkF7OCNVbsEIHP2fNPzaF_gYZyM5H4zTZ83zcmQ-38aTz_VYEzdM/s320/IMG_0570.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(If you click to enlarge this picture, you will see a little guy posing)</div>
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Thankfully we had <strike>Dora the Explorer</strike> Elylah to guide us with a map...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuooeVweu4-iPj_pyP8Fgt7RujmbG9QZI8xQIn12K0JRq8_jraOjVzZsgfXzAGUyENxbaBFedf6eQEDKhZxgLgSf-lT9ceUZJCme4LB7ERyoszM8R74L7Um0AYqN_31raEdWv3_AYifgI/s1600/IMG_0588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuooeVweu4-iPj_pyP8Fgt7RujmbG9QZI8xQIn12K0JRq8_jraOjVzZsgfXzAGUyENxbaBFedf6eQEDKhZxgLgSf-lT9ceUZJCme4LB7ERyoszM8R74L7Um0AYqN_31raEdWv3_AYifgI/s320/IMG_0588.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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and watch the signs along the way...</div>
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And I was glad we packed a little lunch to bring along...</div>
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When we arrived at this spot, I encouraged Ethan and Elylah to take a long look around and say a prayer of thankfulness for all the beauty of the good earth that God created for us to enjoy...</div>
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The Visitor's Center was quite impressive. Everything was nice and clean, air conditined, and very "hands on" for the children. They could learn what the land in our area was like 200 years ago, and why we need to practice sustainable habits for the sake of our environment.</div>
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I loved the way they had little step stools so the kids could see</div>
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a teaching "recycling center"</div>
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a replica of a Great Blue Herron and nest</div>
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art created with recycled materials</div>
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The above four photos were taken from behind a one-way glass. We could see the wild life, but they couldn't see us!</div>
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I was very happy to think of something "free" to do today that was fun and would wear them out so they'd rest this afternoon. One last "perk" we had on the way home...we had run out of water and everyone was very hot and thirsty. I pulled up to a McDonald's drive through window and asked only for 3 glasses of ice water, and offered to pay for them. The girl was so sweet and waved me on...</div>
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Our little field trip to the Nature Realm reminded me of the words of two great old hymns...</div>
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♫ Were the whole <i>realm of nature</i> mine</div>
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that be an offering far too small</div>
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love so amazing, so Divine</div>
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demands my soul, my life, my all. ♫</div>
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+++</div>
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♫ For the beauty of the earth</div>
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for the glory of the skies</div>
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for the love which from our birth</div>
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over and around us lies.</div>
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Lord of all, to Thee we raise,</div>
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this our hymn of grateful praise! ♫</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-82453674811811524392012-07-15T09:33:00.001-04:002012-07-15T09:41:54.045-04:00What's your love language?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you ever read Gary Chapman's best selling book, <i>The Five Love Languages</i>? It is designed to help married couples understand what makes their spouse experience deep feelings of love. I personally think understanding what makes another person tick and feel special and cared about extends even beyond the marriage relationship, and can apply to personal relationships in general. What happens is people who love to do acts of service, for example, most often feel loved when others do acts of service for them. Gary Chapman doesn't list "surprises" as one of the love languages (he uses the term "gifts") but I love to surprise people by giving them something nice they were not expecting. Yet I am usually a difficult person to surprise, and so when I AM surprised with a gift from someone, I truly do feel the love !</div>
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I have not had a birthday, anniversary, or any other special occasion come up for me lately, yet I have been surprised numerous times this past week by a variety of gifts from people! <i style="font-weight: bold;">What in the world is going on?? </i>Have a look!</div>
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One day early in the week I was making a pasta casserole and realized I had enough stuff to make a second one. I decided to take it to my friend Nancy, who is having some health issues and is awaiting surgery. When I arrived at her house, not only did her daughter Kristi have bag of fresh lettuce from her garden to give me, but Nancy handed me a beautiful Pfaltzgraf collector's pitcher that she had found used for a very low price! Nancy knew of my love of the pineapple symbol (hospitality) but she didn't know I have a small collection of pitchers as well. Pitchers are a visual for me of a vessel with contents intended to be poured out for the benefit of others.</div>
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Another day I answered my doorbell to find a young friend, Heather, standing there and holding a beautiful vase of fresh cut flowers and a lovely thankyou note. I had kept her daughter overnight a few days prior while she was having some early morning surgery. I love fresh flowers and I honestly can't remember the last time I've had any in the house! What a pleasant surprise!<br />
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An old friend, Lyn, who I haven't seen or talked to in quite a while, had been trying to reach me for a couple of days. We never did connect on the phone, yet one day as I pulled into the driveway I noticed a gift bag on my front porch. I was stunned to open it and find a beautiful bone china tea cup to add to my fairly new collection, which she had read about on Facebook. What made it all the more special was when I called to thank her, she told me it had been brought from England years ago as a gift to her mother, and had been put away since her mother died back in the '80's. What a treasure!<br />
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My sister Marcella and brother-in-law Rodney are staying with us this weekend. Our neighborhood was having garage sales, and Rodney went out for a few minutes to take a gander. He came back with two items for me, and I love both of them!<br />
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I think I can find a place in the kitchen to display this cute bag of "sugar"...<br />
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and I know I will use this set of placemats!<br />
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While at our family reunion yesterday, my cell phone alerted me of a text from yet another friend, Brenda, who lives in the neighborhood. Our husbands used to work together years ago, and Brenda and I became great thrift shopping/lunching buddies for a while. Years, grandchildren, and jobs have made our times together fewer and farther between. The message said that since she didn't see me going around the garage sales, she had left something for me under the bench in the front of our house! Oh my, what a thoughtful surprise awaited me!<br />
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Each item was wrapped in tissue with a note attached, telling me the order in which I should open it, along with an explanatory note. There is a jar of pickled asparagus (with a personal story), a bottle of olive oil from her travels to Florence, Italy this year, and another bottle of flavored olive oil from a new store in our area. Each item was especially chosen with ME in mind and not just randomly selected!<br />
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I honestly do not know what to make of all this kindness, and all coming within the same week! I will say that I have had a particularly intense and emotionally nerve wracking week with other things going on in my life...one of those weeks when you wish you could just get in your car and head for a quiet vacation...But these people were not aware of all those details. The only possible explanation is my Heavenly Father, who knows me inside out (and loves me anyway) had orchestrated a way to comfort and cheer me by using people in my life to speak HIS love language...the language of thoughtfulness, blessing, giving...Not one of these people asked for anything in exchange for their gifts freely given. But in their giving, they all communicated a desire to have an ongoing relationship with <i>me. </i>I don't take that for granted, and I am letting this all sink in. As much as I love every one of these gifts, I know it's really not as much about the gift as it is about the giver of the gifts. And from the bottom of a very grateful heart I say a huge "THANK YOU" to them for allowing God to work in and through them this week to bless a soul who was in need of a special touch. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17</span></i></span><br />
<br /></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-14034805076255628532012-07-08T16:22:00.004-04:002012-08-10T10:08:40.663-04:00pizzelles anyone?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our family's bi-annual family reunion is coming up. Thinking of family and traditions and the generations makes me think of my little Italian grandma. And thinking of grandma makes me think of (among a multitude of wonderful memories) pizzelles. </div>
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My pizzelle maker died last fall after 35 years of faithful service. I've been on the lookout for a vintage one to replace it ever since, rather than buying a new model. They were way too expensive on E-bay and I was about to cave in and buy a new one when one of my swapping friends spotted one for me! She only paid a couple of dollars for it and it is almost identical to the one I had for so many years!</div>
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Needless to say, I was very overjoyed to get a "new" vintage pizzelle maker! Here is the recipe I usually use:</div>
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12 eggs</div>
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2 cups sugar</div>
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2 cups oil</div>
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1/2 tsp. pure anise oil OR 1 TBSP. anise extract</div>
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4 cups flour</div>
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Beat eggs well, then add sugar gradually while beating. Add oil and flavoring. Still beating, add flour one cup at a time and mix well. Refrigerate batter before using to enhance flavor, but not necessary. That's it!! Makes 6-7 dozen cookies. Start through clean up is less than two hours.</div>
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I know, I know. Doesn't sound very healthy, does it? Well, before you pass judgment, consider that my grandma lived to be over 93 years old and she LIVED those 93 years. And she made these all the time!</div>
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In any event, we love our pizzelles and I made them today. Half of them I am giving to three different families. Here's how I do it:</div>
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After mixing the batter well and preheating the pizzelle maker which has been oiled using a paper towel, I drop a soup spoon size amount on each mold.</div>
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Every pizzelle maker is a little different, so you might need to experiment to see how long to bake your cookies, but I usually shut the lid for about one minute, till they are a nice light golden brown color. (This recipe is for thin pizzelles. If you make thicker ones, you will have to bake them slightly longer.)<br />
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When I'm ready to remove them from the baker, I use a butter knife to gently lift them out, and place them on a cooling rack.<br />
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After they are cooled, I sprinkle them with powdered sugar.<br />
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This container is going to a swapping friend who just had twins last week! Some more are going to the friend who found the pizzelle maker for me, and some others going over to my brother, who just got home yesterday from his week long chemotherapy. That still leaves plenty to have around the house here!</div>
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<i>"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Col. 3:17</i></div>
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<b>*</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b> </b>"I am linking this recipe up with<b> <a href="http://wifeofthecolonel.blogspot.com/2012/08/foodie-friends-linky-party-7.html">Walking on Sunshine </a></b>and Foodie Friends Friday" </span><br />
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</tbody></table>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-4025653797325491422012-07-04T23:30:00.000-04:002012-07-05T00:58:03.370-04:00I'm back...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I keep putting off writing posts until I have time or until I feel a twinge of creativity. Neither of those things seem to be in my life right now, so I'm just going to try posting more frequently, even if what I write is short, unimaginative, or uninteresting. That is the nature of my life-between-the-buns anyway...never enough quality time for reflection, too busy living. Writing is a discipline. I just need to do it. I long for quiet hours to pen deep and meaningful thoughts. But I'm just not there right now. So I'll do what I can. </div>
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I was <strike>whining </strike> texting to my brother, Don, this morning. He is in the hospital an hour away, tethered to the PICC line and receiving yet another 96 hours of chemotherapy. Pretty low of me to be complaining to him about my stressed out condition. But he's a psychologist afterall, and I just dumped on him. </div>
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"Good morning. How's it going? I've been pretty stressed out this week--desperately need some down time...have no idea how to accomplish that. I thought I was about over this head cold ...blah blah blah..."</div>
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"...get a no-brainer book and just relax!..."</div>
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"wish we were all at the beach again..."</div>
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"indeed! we'll do it again!..."</div>
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"is it ok and sane to just have a good cry and get it out of my system?"</div>
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"of course!!"</div>
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"I just feel a general sense of "loss" lately...feeling the sense of our earthly mortality...good times and good people gone by...makes me sad..."</div>
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"might also be good to journal your feelings. A good way to know that these feelings are normal and also that they are transitory."</div>
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"yes, and thankful for the assurance that God has it all in His hands...so when I can't see that hand I still know I can trust His heart...I am going to make a couple apple pies today. Playing in the kitchen is a stress reliever for me..."</div>
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"don't forget my tuna casserole!"</div>
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Such is the friendly banter between two siblings who love each other and show grace to each other on a regular basis. My brother is a very wise man. The advice he gave about journaling my feelings so I will see they are transitory is why I'm back. This blog is the journal of my life right now. Pies turned out great. Mom, kids and grandkids came over to share the day, and tuna casserole will be ready as soon as my brother recovers from this round of chemo, hopefully in about a week.</div>
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<i>"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens." Ecclesiastes 3:1</i></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-175454678569282482012-05-23T11:36:00.001-04:002013-01-20T18:58:49.570-05:00Somebody give this a name!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKhVppiD3-9xDpTR1QABjraQEK2HrZwZcHghNTtWv92snQiPi3tDdMGrWDg8M7IHQKq-Yw67lBxMXoqor10OkkXudeTt1DeXgUo3ctilaJP5xmUs4wSbo0Aj-qJl-wGt3rltFtc5Kj54/s1600/IMG_5115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKhVppiD3-9xDpTR1QABjraQEK2HrZwZcHghNTtWv92snQiPi3tDdMGrWDg8M7IHQKq-Yw67lBxMXoqor10OkkXudeTt1DeXgUo3ctilaJP5xmUs4wSbo0Aj-qJl-wGt3rltFtc5Kj54/s320/IMG_5115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I needed to use up the leftovers before the holiday weekend. So I tried an experiment and with just a little tweeking, I think this is a keeper...</div>
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In my fridge I found eggs, milk, a couple tubes of crescent rolls, fresh spinach, a little fresh salsa , four pieces of bacon and 2 sausage links that were already cooked, some fresh mushrooms, and a jar of cheese dip. First I cut up the sausage and bacon, then chopped the spinach. Then I beat the eggs in a bowl, added a little milk, and beat it well with the mixer, and added everything else to it.</div>
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I sprayed my cupcake tin with Pam, and then wiped most of it off with a paper towel. Next, I opened up the crescent rolls and cut them into squares and lined the muffin tin. I filled them with the egg mixture. Since there was still some of the dough left, I cut pieces and layed them on top. I forgot to time how long I baked these, but just until the egg was set...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6YO_eUa0tVNePW3dMffiSJnJchghLR4Kdchw4Z_-idPGsreRxQ5Zot6lUD1lvN5EfRqXxX6VN9KNtqSeR5my9ZLQSNOCXlV9XStYNIJKxAS4AB5o1JP4qGYovnsrp186z3PmcZDNV_k/s1600/IMG_5112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6YO_eUa0tVNePW3dMffiSJnJchghLR4Kdchw4Z_-idPGsreRxQ5Zot6lUD1lvN5EfRqXxX6VN9KNtqSeR5my9ZLQSNOCXlV9XStYNIJKxAS4AB5o1JP4qGYovnsrp186z3PmcZDNV_k/s320/IMG_5112.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next time I will remember not to fill them so full...<br />
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But since I had used Pam, they lefted out easily...<br />
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I set them in cupcake wrappers AFTER baking for easy handling. These were simple to make and tasted so good! Now I just need to know what to call them. Any suggestions out there??</div>
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<br />Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-28616446238030808052012-05-08T23:46:00.000-04:002012-05-08T23:46:30.448-04:00Stress relief comes in many different forms...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I don't remember when I've last had an entire day to just blow! But last Saturday was like heaven...My sister Marcella came in from out of town and my brother Don was also staying the weekend with us. (His wife and daughter had a little weekend get-away of their own). While Don was tied up during the day, Marcella and I enjoyed one of our favorite pasttimes, thrifting! So after a yummy breakfast out, we picked up our mom and headed to some local estate sales and yard sales. It was an absolutely beautiful and sunny Satuday morning and we all found some great deals. I think I spent about $20 total. Here are just some of the items I picked up...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeelUkohuXYOED8ttAuZFAsaoF9_lOV8O6Dt7TZOVZvkIZCexlc8jhLtA9hWnlOxFcTO9RnOhgYBPPrsClbEL7tmLarAkWnEY2wy4mZQgICCMr6rurrCxz_nPsbj7XGOrF-ghViDVDFJU/s1600/IMG_4961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeelUkohuXYOED8ttAuZFAsaoF9_lOV8O6Dt7TZOVZvkIZCexlc8jhLtA9hWnlOxFcTO9RnOhgYBPPrsClbEL7tmLarAkWnEY2wy4mZQgICCMr6rurrCxz_nPsbj7XGOrF-ghViDVDFJU/s320/IMG_4961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A beautiful hand-made basket full of pine cones, $1.00</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFATk8KUYdjcQTVDe8uPs426pPxIQdA1GJDxtKyKUvtICxD2FuBcnjeCNCDJJHhaLXSjzYoX9GEQZnLrWG_iSGDfK6Haykh6DV3PRgIlEXb3An2gN-EcKFWZ7Mn-gSU2vc5R-XGEkH8s/s1600/IMG_4962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFATk8KUYdjcQTVDe8uPs426pPxIQdA1GJDxtKyKUvtICxD2FuBcnjeCNCDJJHhaLXSjzYoX9GEQZnLrWG_iSGDfK6Haykh6DV3PRgIlEXb3An2gN-EcKFWZ7Mn-gSU2vc5R-XGEkH8s/s320/IMG_4962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've always wanted one of these tea cup & saucer holders to hang on the wall, so I was happy to pay $5.00 for this one!All it needs is dusting...I can do that!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOuV7U73d_T2zwIEOwJstLjWKTGoh1qhjSORONXe6yqXTgYc_uWsiBwcQV_Yi8M8LUIgd61SjPap1E8SHuiOGCvTYXdJah5tsDGrMjB0gQ-zw9GBv1Qt_hDukj6rWhY4lA-jQVusyszk/s1600/IMG_4960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOuV7U73d_T2zwIEOwJstLjWKTGoh1qhjSORONXe6yqXTgYc_uWsiBwcQV_Yi8M8LUIgd61SjPap1E8SHuiOGCvTYXdJah5tsDGrMjB0gQ-zw9GBv1Qt_hDukj6rWhY4lA-jQVusyszk/s320/IMG_4960.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This large and very sturdy basketful of artificial flowers was only $1.00.</div>
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Go ahead and laugh, but I'm so excited to be the proud owner of this antique chamber pot, purchased for $2.We might not have a regular job, but as hubby says, we DO have a pot to pee in! </div>
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I was equally excited to find a very clean and heavy stainless steel pot with a glass lid for soup or sauce, $2.00.</div>
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I think I have close to a dozen wreaths now, either thrifted or that I made myself. I couldn't resist this one for $1.50! Earlier in the week I had found a large pinecone wreath in my on-line swap group for $5.</div>
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We finished off our shopping day with lunch at Flurry's, a small local restaurant that has been around since we were kids...this kind of place...<br />
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When we were finished with our sandwiches, the waitress came over with a very large piece of cheesecake covered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream and said we needed to eat it to save her from herself. We obliged :)<br />
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In the evening, Marcella visited with Don at our house while several of us attended a ballet in Akron. The daughter of friends of ours had the starring roll in the classic ballet, Coppelia. I can't imagine what it would be like to drive around town and see your daughter on the billboards!<br />
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I think this is the fourth ballet we have taken our granddaughter, Elylah, to at the Civic Theater. She loves dressing up !<br />
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Isn't she beautiful, even with two front teeth missing?</div>
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I first met Sarah Ruesch when she was about a year old when her family moved into our neighborhood. She started taking ballet lessons at 3 1/2.</div>
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She sure has made her parents proud!</div>
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Elylah with her mom, my mom, and Bob's mom</div>
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My sister Barb and my niece Sarah also attended...</div>
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On Sunday morning, Marcella, Don, Bob and I all were able to attend <a href="http://www.ccchapel.com/">church</a> together, where we picked up some more stress relief! (We took these picures right before we left for church.)</div>
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After church we took Don home to his waiting wife, my sister went back home to her family, and Bob and I spent the rest of the day relaxing at home. On Sunday evening, Don and Marcie had to check into the Hope Lodge in Cleveland near University Hospital, where Don is spending this week getting some more intense chemotherapy. Check out their blog<a href="http://www.donlichireport.blogspot.com/"> here</a>.</div>
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<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I Thess. 5:16-18</span></b></i></div>
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</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-66657056114086229992012-04-29T12:43:00.000-04:002012-04-29T12:55:52.580-04:00Chemo-HAIR-apy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Years ago, my grandparents were in a local musical group called the Grandmas & Grandpas, and their motto was "we'd rather wear out than rust out". That phrase came to my mind this past Friday night, when my brother Don threw a head shaving party in preparation for his upcoming cancer treatments. About 100 family and friends gathered to show love and support. The event, dubbed "Chemo-HAIR-apy" was held at the <a href="http://www.emerge.org/">Emerge Ministries</a> location where Don is Vice President and a practicing Christian psychologist. He turned it into a fund-raiser to benefit the Children's Center at Emerge.</div>
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Don has been pushing through this cancer battle ever since his Multiple Myeloma diagnosis came last November. To say he has been an inspiration is way understating the impact his positive attitude and unwavering faith in God has been on a myriad of people around the world. (Our <a href="http://www.ohio.com/news/local/local-therapist-battles-cancer-with-help-of-others-and-hope-in-god-1.265488">local newspaper</a> ran a front page article with his story on February 17, 2012 and it has continued to be picked up by papers as far away as China and Australia. He is still receiving personal notes from strangers from all over the place!)<br />
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In about a week, Don is scheduled to be admitted to University Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio to undergo the greatest challenge yet in his journey. The day before his autologous stem cell transplant, a very strong and toxic chemotherapy drug will be administered in hopes of killing off any remaining cancer cells. Don has an amazing head of thick hair for a 59 year old man, so the head shaving party as an alternative to losing it in clumps from the drug's side effects was an effort to put a positive spin on a dreaded reality.</div>
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Don invited folks to do something silly with their hair. Our brother Bob was quick to oblige:</div>
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Hubby and I wore hair bows:</div>
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And my mom did THIS:</div>
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We all ate some pizza, salad, and cookies and there were pens and papers on the tables for attendees to write personal notes to Don. For a small price, folks could throw a whipped cream pie at a volunteer from the Emerge staff.<br />
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Most people know that Don detests men's pink shirts, but just for fun he was willing to wear one!</div>
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Here I am with Don and John Palmer, President of Emerge Ministries<br />
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Some of the family right before the shave<br />
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Marcie, Don's wife, looks on as the head shaving begins...</div>
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Don is saying something like "I think you are cutting a little shorter than usual"</div>
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Now that wasn't so bad, was it?</div>
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The evening ended with John Palmer leading us in prayer, asking God to do what the doctors aren't able to...</div>
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Don being pushed by one of his grandchildren..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvpDdDhdV-aPZqX91vbdcgHlIAJSQAPr1f1-XIZY4n8mJ93XUEkrsoqt_yd4Ot5aW0kQXIgVMISNR1RcAoaQRnqEBaMIgu1fhpc-YUBQnoO-Xo9EOPlz70X6GW-v_JepVZh_j_NnN_M8/s1600/IMG_4834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvpDdDhdV-aPZqX91vbdcgHlIAJSQAPr1f1-XIZY4n8mJ93XUEkrsoqt_yd4Ot5aW0kQXIgVMISNR1RcAoaQRnqEBaMIgu1fhpc-YUBQnoO-Xo9EOPlz70X6GW-v_JepVZh_j_NnN_M8/s320/IMG_4834.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><br />
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and loving on two of mine.<br />
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<b><i>"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."</i></b><br />
<b><i>Philippians 4:13</i></b><br />
<br /></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-6950100154046381582012-04-07T10:26:00.000-04:002012-04-07T10:26:08.181-04:00Spring has truly sprung...<div style="text-align: justify;">March has come and gone and it is Easter weekend already! I'll pedal back another day to recount my busy life between the buns, but just wanted to post a few pictures of how I have been de-stressing this past week. Anyone who knows me, knows that I gravitate to the kitchen when I need a creative outlet and a chance to play. <br />
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</div>It was hubby's birthday a couple days ago, and we had a low-key celebration over here...<br />
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We decided to go out to eat this year for our Easter dinner, but I still felt the need for a little tradition...so we colored some eggs...<br />
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I thought they were just beautiful, but the little artists wanted to decorate them even more with craft paint. That ended up being a lot of fun!<br />
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Yesterday I had some time all to myself, and I made a batch of these apricot thumbprints...<br />
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Very easy! Here's how: Heat oven to 350 ℉. Mix 1/2 cup shortening, 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 egg yolks, and 1 tsp. vanilla. Add 2 cups flour and 1/2 tsp. salt. Roll dough into balls and dip into slightly beaten egg whites. Then roll in 1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts.<br />
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Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Press thumb gently into center of each ball. Bake about 8 minutes. Remove from oven and fill centers with jelly. Return to oven and bake 2-3 minutes longer. Carefully remove cookies to cooling rack. Makes 3-4 dozen thumbprint cookies. <br />
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I couldn't let Easter go by without making hot cross buns. You can see the recipe<a href="http://lifebetweenthebuns.blogspot.com/2009/04/mary-stroms-hot-cross-buns.html"> here</a>. <br />
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The hardest part of making these is waiting patiently for the dough to rise until it doubles in size.<br />
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But when it does, just knead it slightly, then form rolls and place on cookie sheets and allow to rest 30 minutes before baking...<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I found myself in the kitchen again this morning by about 4:30! I wanted to get the crosses on the hot cross buns in time for my hubby to take some to his early morning men's group. For some reason I felt the need to boil more eggs and bake more cupcakes (???) ...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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Now I'm busy packaging some of this stuff up to give away becaue I sure can't have it all sitting around here!<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I'm also putting the finishing touches on these little wooden Easter boxes that I found at the thrift store earlier in the year for less than 50 cents each! I bought one for each of the six grandchildren and filled them with a chocolate bunny, chocolate eggs, and some tiny jelly beans. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I'm grateful for so many things this holiday...for a mild winter and now springtime; for a time of focus and contemplation during the Lenten season, for wonderful memories of past Easters with family, friends, and at church; and most of all, for a Risen Savior who died that I might live. Peace and love to all as we celebrate the glorious day with millions everywhere! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>"He is not here, for he has risen, just as he said" Mathew 28:6</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br />
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</b></i></div><span id="goog_1191637581"></span><span id="goog_1191637582"></span>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-34843772184636657042012-02-29T21:46:00.004-05:002012-02-29T21:49:14.806-05:00February was fun...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">Oh Febuary, I was so in love with you this year! I never knew you could have so many endearing qualities. In the past, it seems I've only known the desolation of your cold, gloomy days and blustery, assulting snow and ice. But this time you came to me gently and your mild, sunny ways melted my heart. I celebrated you like never before.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It's time to leave you now, February. We even had one extra, glorious day together...Thanks for this beautiful sun-kissed day ~ I will not soon forget the warmth of your embrace. What a sweet surprise you have been! I needed you so!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-52677669962453226812012-02-12T16:47:00.000-05:002012-02-12T16:47:53.606-05:00Decadent Peanut Butter Pie*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px;">"Pie is meant for sharing. Pie connects people. Pie knows no cultural or political boundaries. Pie makes people happy. And happy people make the world a better place. That’s why the world needs more pie." ~ Beth M. Howard</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvxkbUYiQkKVIcr6STbFdY60aanVNr8UwUq9otIMmmBolW8d_DE6leYFcQg3FD-x7F919hqWchAftISWh0hLD23DZ254pNhpwOXI5Bmp_vru9Ym5qpMmeEg3rype3YrnLlIYofVdukms/s1600/IMG_2569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvxkbUYiQkKVIcr6STbFdY60aanVNr8UwUq9otIMmmBolW8d_DE6leYFcQg3FD-x7F919hqWchAftISWh0hLD23DZ254pNhpwOXI5Bmp_vru9Ym5qpMmeEg3rype3YrnLlIYofVdukms/s320/IMG_2569.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I stumbled into Beth Howard's blog as I was leafing through my Country Living magazine, where she was featured. The title is what caught my eye: <a href="http://www.theworldneedsmorepie.com/">The World Needs More Pie</a>. She also has a memoir that is due out in print shortly: <i>Give Piece a Chance</i>. I'd never heard of her or her blog until this morning, but I did feel an immediate bond of sorts with her. I am a pie baker, albeit on a much much smaller scale! And she is right! Pie DOES make people smile. Why IS that?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I think some people are just intimidated by pie making. They think it is something mysterious and best left to the professionals. Nothing can be further from the truth. I think the thing I like most about making pies is not only is it a creative outlet, (a beautiful and delicious home made pie IS a work of art, is it not?) but results are fairly immediate and as Beth says, pies make people smile! Rarely does anyone say, "sorry, I don't do pie", so the chances of having your masterpiece rejected are fairly slim.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So I thought I would put this recipe up today in case anyone wanted to make it for Valentine's Day this week. My friend Jennifer brought a couple of these to our Thanksgiving dinner last year and it was <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">LOVE</span> </b>at first bite! I put one together this afternoon...it's chilling in the fridge right now! Very easy to make and only takes a couple of ingredients.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Makes one pie, 6-8 servings/ prep time: 15 mins. / Ready in 2 hrs.</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Ingredients:</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1 cup JIF Creamy Peanut Butter plus 2 Tbsp (divided)</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1 8-oz. package cream cheese, softened</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1/2 c. sugar</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1 12-oz. container (4 1/2 cups) frozen whipped topping, thawed (divided)</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1 prepared chocolate pie crust</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1 11.75 oz. Smucker’s Hot Fudge Topping (divided)</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Directions:</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1. Beat together 1 cup peanut butter, cream cheese, and sugar in large bowl with an electric mixer on medium until well combined. Gently mix in 3 cups whipped topping until thoroughly combined. Spoon mixture into pie crust. Using a spatula, smooth mixture to edges of pie.</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> 2. Reserve two Tbsp. of hot fudge topping in the corner of a resealable food storage bag; set aside. Microwave remaining topping on high for one minute. Stir. Spread topping over pie, covering entire peanut butter layer. Refrigerate until set. Spread remaining whipped topping (1 1/2 cups) over hot fudge layer, being careful not to mix the two layers. </span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> 3. Cut a small corner of bag containing topping. Squeeze bag to drizzle topping over pie. Place remaining 2 Tbsp. peanut butter in a resealable food storage bag. Cut bag corner and squeeze to drizzle in opposite direction from topping. Refrigerate until ready to serve.</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><i>So if you want something quick, yummy, and mysterious to serve on Valentine's Day, this would be it. And don't forget to smile!</i></b></span></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></span></span></div><div style="font: 14.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">* Decadent Peanut Butter Pie ©/® The J. M. Smucker Company</div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-25306801405962363742012-02-08T07:43:00.001-05:002012-02-08T07:44:24.679-05:00"Personality is what you are to others..."<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJKf-U6My7bCWFlFbA6a28ERjgV_F_BSG7UrqGzP3WICSk1fe_4gbqFntlOURoc5z26svGOgJy9nqJQ_KzA0Fe2efAYiq3LiZ02AOoUvmGoPgeIxFu49jy3dQZ_Lf5u4l5GNMxAVK5kM/s1600/IMG_2731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJKf-U6My7bCWFlFbA6a28ERjgV_F_BSG7UrqGzP3WICSk1fe_4gbqFntlOURoc5z26svGOgJy9nqJQ_KzA0Fe2efAYiq3LiZ02AOoUvmGoPgeIxFu49jy3dQZ_Lf5u4l5GNMxAVK5kM/s320/IMG_2731.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Today is my mom's 83rd birthday! And I want her to know I've not forgotten what she wrote in my autograph book more than 50 years ago:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"<i>Personality</i> is what you are to others, <i>character</i> is what you are."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So often we are judged by our outward appearances...our looks, our style of dress, how much we weigh, how we present ourselves publicly, and so forth. As a teenager, one of my close friends told me, "if it wasn't for your hair...you would be...<i>nothing</i>! Really? I laugh at that memory now. I know she was trying to compliment me and in an awkward way was saying that I did a pretty good job with my hair style and it was one of my best outward features. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes even now friends make comments to me like "you need to get a life" or "you need to get out more often". When I hear that sort of thing, I just accept that they are making a judgment about an aspect of my personality that they can see outwardly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My brother Don, who happens to be fighting a very serious form of cancer, updated <a href="http://www.donlichireport.blogspot.com/">his blog</a> recently and talks about risking intimacy in relationships. We don't always let the barriers down and allow others to see us up close and personal. Sometimes I hesitate to "show myself" because I don't want to seem like I am trying to draw attention to myself or make it look like I am asking for a pat on the back. It's often more comfortable just to keep things between me and God.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I also don't like rejection (who DOES?!) and I've lived enough years now to fully know that not everyone will accept me for who I really am, what I have to say, or love me in spite of my best (and often flawed) attempts at communicating. Still, being misunderstood is painful.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having said all of the above, I want to share a couple things that gave me a lot of personal joy yesterday. My hubby and I took a couple of hours to pick up donated casseroles, soups, and cookies from our church and deliver them to an inner city ministry. We had opportunity to chat with the house mom and a young girl doing some community service as part of her legal obligation. After that, we stopped at a local restaurant and picked up some food which we delivered to a friend who is staying day and night at the children's hospital with her special needs son who was admitted with breathing problems, and her 2 month old nursing daughter. Her other two children are with their grandmother. My friend isn't married and can't work, so finances are very limited and she simply could not afford to buy meals at the hospital. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I haven't stopped to analyze why yesterday was so meaningful to me personally or why I felt such joy in serving others. But if I had to guess, I would say it is probably because in spite of our own job uncertainty and my brother's health crisis, and a few other things going on that keep me on my knees, I realized again how very blessed I have been in so many ways. There's just something about getting close enough to the real life situations of others that makes you realize you don't have it so bad, in spite of frustrating or even agonizing circumstances. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So I want to say<b> "thank you Mom!"</b> for instilling in me very early on that character development is far more important than any of the things that people see about my personality. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><b>"...for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." I Samuel 16:7</b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-68718138386473713142012-01-30T23:02:00.000-05:002012-01-30T23:02:46.401-05:00When life gets tough, the tough get crafty...<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rAYRdFYgbp9_hKZdWow6TnhXhWUEUW5Xkif0BGdjdAp1nN1VmZw93_bkMcElnYvL1lxYedg4YC_w72OSCQ_XuuTyEfR4bnrEsVq_w0P_zQlInwCgzFwGanxy4T9xxjZ3xeWp-sMPMLo/s1600/IMG_3512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rAYRdFYgbp9_hKZdWow6TnhXhWUEUW5Xkif0BGdjdAp1nN1VmZw93_bkMcElnYvL1lxYedg4YC_w72OSCQ_XuuTyEfR4bnrEsVq_w0P_zQlInwCgzFwGanxy4T9xxjZ3xeWp-sMPMLo/s320/IMG_3512.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I haven't felt a creative bone in my body for months now, but I thought I could use some craft therapy. To be honest, I didn't think of it myself, but took the challenge of an acquaintance after I posted on a local Facebook swap group that I belong to that I was in search of a Valentine's Day wreath. She showed me the one she made and so I set out to try to copy it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I discovered it is a little late to be shopping the craft stores for Valentine's Day supplies so I didn't get as large a styrofoam heart as I wanted. The one I got is about 13 inches across. I would have preferred something up to twice that size. Then I bought a large bag of red glass stones, the kind you see in vases or in fish tanks, a roll of red tulle, (my friend used red cellophane) and a roll of ribbon. I already have a hot glue gun and glue sticks.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1vriOj0tr9l6x3dlPVbuvmo_KUdRpqChO4kzjrTj4AXwhw1eTxnSKLNnYqlFTlAMLc7mtPcWZ1172iPef0-XjjNmQDM6IpqSVdVxjGPRKyDnyo8NDY_FLyvyAzvK_UvXnwklDFkjnYI/s1600/IMG_3506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1vriOj0tr9l6x3dlPVbuvmo_KUdRpqChO4kzjrTj4AXwhw1eTxnSKLNnYqlFTlAMLc7mtPcWZ1172iPef0-XjjNmQDM6IpqSVdVxjGPRKyDnyo8NDY_FLyvyAzvK_UvXnwklDFkjnYI/s320/IMG_3506.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">So first I covered the styrofoam heart with the tulle, tucking in the end on the back with a little dab of hot glue. Then I simply covered the entire heart, front and back, with the stones. You wouldn't have to put them on the back, but I'm just weird that way...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYakMNKzQboCITE0hOGXND65DEg_OXtGBxeY9egOLgaA421fWnUJ_IcbnVWZlo5RhXQY6xOWc5sUONc9aX3EJ0iD5HRZK_MKeU8nDdP5CvHED3DPUmFWolk59z3mSUvaz-aPQhHcyTnL0/s1600/IMG_3507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYakMNKzQboCITE0hOGXND65DEg_OXtGBxeY9egOLgaA421fWnUJ_IcbnVWZlo5RhXQY6xOWc5sUONc9aX3EJ0iD5HRZK_MKeU8nDdP5CvHED3DPUmFWolk59z3mSUvaz-aPQhHcyTnL0/s320/IMG_3507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2tCcS-z5EThprRkNwp57KLIMQy1ol3_M15168mrRbWt63o-8UvpCWUmAY0sCKfSmgy-sg0K1rnQyKYSD6HRlq3CXXTs8zzShy73Sn1g687beZvrlBcfW1Svmv2ZnZjgFgX9XFETjGFQ/s1600/IMG_3508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2tCcS-z5EThprRkNwp57KLIMQy1ol3_M15168mrRbWt63o-8UvpCWUmAY0sCKfSmgy-sg0K1rnQyKYSD6HRlq3CXXTs8zzShy73Sn1g687beZvrlBcfW1Svmv2ZnZjgFgX9XFETjGFQ/s320/IMG_3508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">In all seriousness, this project took less than an hour to complete. The glass beads made the wreath very heavy, so I was hesitant to put it on the outside of my front door. We are having a lot of strong winds and some snow lately. So I decided to find a place indoors to hang it. This is a funky old desk in our living room, where I am also displaying some vintage valentines I got from the flea market a while ago...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY6hLNnjR3RGz3QpMFD9qrOL3RIErgoe4j4PCJQLatPL3FxBLANuialRdJgf0UdnzwSLIGRdri7-JaukihBt-_aGHv2eG09W0BrsxQG3VZjYGprmY6KneduLSFO_LzUJQcU6UWW_cYOM/s1600/IMG_3518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY6hLNnjR3RGz3QpMFD9qrOL3RIErgoe4j4PCJQLatPL3FxBLANuialRdJgf0UdnzwSLIGRdri7-JaukihBt-_aGHv2eG09W0BrsxQG3VZjYGprmY6KneduLSFO_LzUJQcU6UWW_cYOM/s320/IMG_3518.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEAfU6N6E12no3mcyKanzriZBkoIBbtdOTvVli5rVRA92lokgXaC3WvsOCMI0cOWLi2woZxNjL_OG49YVtr_gGdAKXRTwo3257IwkXIO2zk03T4ZNo6AZj1wVVxXoDktgSzqwNW92MnA/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEAfU6N6E12no3mcyKanzriZBkoIBbtdOTvVli5rVRA92lokgXaC3WvsOCMI0cOWLi2woZxNjL_OG49YVtr_gGdAKXRTwo3257IwkXIO2zk03T4ZNo6AZj1wVVxXoDktgSzqwNW92MnA/s320/IMG_3521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTeV24aJmJ0nNMzl9KMEjcXO-r29V9ZMBa0uHdMR6IKJfANdSCFZ_umVb0u6jy6a181flYfNY62dez1HiGgetXHQ0JdKkLbD4of15HjAtZAaypJVAulswqmluH6PuDLNjOc73ax6f4Cg/s1600/IMG_3522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTeV24aJmJ0nNMzl9KMEjcXO-r29V9ZMBa0uHdMR6IKJfANdSCFZ_umVb0u6jy6a181flYfNY62dez1HiGgetXHQ0JdKkLbD4of15HjAtZAaypJVAulswqmluH6PuDLNjOc73ax6f4Cg/s320/IMG_3522.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To complete my Valentine's Day decor, I added a store bought banner...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhch-urgB4IdvRxBwnA8u0eBn95lBJhmTBUYHdJxBEoM-bk0inu58quohMHpk89FrtdrdTaMo9ZyOzgPPxwKDQSFIZmD1HPpXmlWtQ5RqClp9wGopB6nyKSUnsDmTqHCPAkZvXbpfBSi4Q/s1600/IMG_3525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhch-urgB4IdvRxBwnA8u0eBn95lBJhmTBUYHdJxBEoM-bk0inu58quohMHpk89FrtdrdTaMo9ZyOzgPPxwKDQSFIZmD1HPpXmlWtQ5RqClp9wGopB6nyKSUnsDmTqHCPAkZvXbpfBSi4Q/s320/IMG_3525.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And now will someone please pass the chocolates?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What are YOU doing to decorate for February???</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-50101445144668792862012-01-21T08:49:00.000-05:002012-01-21T08:49:48.374-05:00Still opening Christmas presents...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gXRODSNIhWQch9xiTcDVOXgr1uZytqRBTZ5f16Dt3Xf8JoDgipmy9LbTcjwr16zm7Jqr7b8ZspI0R3MuB61Ct4_Og5jRfKZEoDrtA58kLLiICaCU0cUj5yUkJUe4LVGcqQG2ybLMM-I/s1600/IMG_3410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gXRODSNIhWQch9xiTcDVOXgr1uZytqRBTZ5f16Dt3Xf8JoDgipmy9LbTcjwr16zm7Jqr7b8ZspI0R3MuB61Ct4_Og5jRfKZEoDrtA58kLLiICaCU0cUj5yUkJUe4LVGcqQG2ybLMM-I/s320/IMG_3410.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Thought I'd lighten things up this wintry Saturday morning and share a recipe. My sister Marcella gave me several of these wonderful "gift in a jar" goodies for Christmas and I had the chance to make the first one last night. Here are the ingredients and instructions for filling the jar: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sand Art Brownies</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">5/8 cup all-purpose flour, 3/4 tsp. salt, 1/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup packed brown sugar, 2/3 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup white baking chips, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mix 5/8 c. flour with salt. Layer the ingredients in the order given into a wide mouth 1 quart jar, starting with the flour and sale mixture and ending with the walnuts. NOTE: While the type of jar my sister used is really cute, the brown sugar hardened and was difficult to get out. Microwaving hardened brown sugar softens it, but because of the metal clamps I wasn't able to do that. So you might want to just use a regular wide-mouthed canning jar.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When ready to use the mix, follow these directions:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Preheat oven to 350℉. Grease one 8 or 9 inch square baking pan. (I think this disposable aluminum pan was more like 7 " square, so it made the brownies a bit thicker and required a little longer baking time.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Pour the contents of the jar into a large bowl, and mix well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. Stir in 1 tsp. vanilla, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 tbsp. water, and 2 eggs. Beat until just combined. (I used a wooden spoon, not a mixer.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 mins. (I baked mine for about 40 mins.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XB32vr7-eueWhnNu4w9qwvZhullQEj5Bc-8eP54F2FVFUhXZQBWfIbPlCOlJE7JTYNZIZr9XIFI1mOBunlc_5JO2yZpPh7KJxns29-dIIAioQug8ncmxt3eX8ye3aFF8iVYIDeWI2hs/s1600/IMG_3412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XB32vr7-eueWhnNu4w9qwvZhullQEj5Bc-8eP54F2FVFUhXZQBWfIbPlCOlJE7JTYNZIZr9XIFI1mOBunlc_5JO2yZpPh7KJxns29-dIIAioQug8ncmxt3eX8ye3aFF8iVYIDeWI2hs/s320/IMG_3412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Oh my! these brownies are SO GOOD! And it was easy and fun to make them!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTd8FRUxIDohm-VGVcsjgV3vFBsvpscGnpuM1hDyUIBYDCT9VtWMo9E8ZB1NmtRrf0iiS4MIY1ll_ZQ_jq2rZVowKCG6xc9idgfxleoCXCbxYw3puVpQD_DEyhy-j_eW4sb0KaEnvjQ4/s1600/IMG_3413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTd8FRUxIDohm-VGVcsjgV3vFBsvpscGnpuM1hDyUIBYDCT9VtWMo9E8ZB1NmtRrf0iiS4MIY1ll_ZQ_jq2rZVowKCG6xc9idgfxleoCXCbxYw3puVpQD_DEyhy-j_eW4sb0KaEnvjQ4/s320/IMG_3413.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Last week I had breakfast with my friend Leslie, who gave me the gift of this awesome tiered plate which matches my collection of Pfaltzgraff (Yorktowne) dishes. Even though it was just hubby and me enjoying movie night at home, I set our treats out on the dish. Fortunately we didn't eat them all and I think I'll enjoy another brownie with my coffee this morning!Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-90893385441393883212012-01-17T08:34:00.000-05:002012-01-17T08:34:20.465-05:00A new year brings new perspective...<div style="text-align: justify;">One of the positive things about getting older is the ability to look back over our lives and see areas where we have grown and changed for the better. Often our physical eyesight weakens with age but our spiritual vision can become sharper than ever if we allow it. We understand things differently because we have lived longer and we have more information and experience. Time has a way of softening and healing. Perspective changes. Confidence grows. Living each day becomes more intentional. I like to think that's what is happening with me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Every now and then something really major happens that drives home the point even more profoundly. When my brother got his cancer diagnosis a little over two months ago, the earth stood still for me. Suddenly our joblessness seemed like a minor scratch on the record of life by comparison. All our focus shifted and priorities rearranged themselves. I've never experienced a major earthquake, but I've seen before and after pictures. One minute everything is neatly in place and things look normal. Then the shaking and rattling begins. A few seconds or minutes later, a building or a highway or a room is totally unrecognizable. For the people affected, life is never the same.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Life will never be the same for me anymore either. My brother's cancer is incurable. Many of the drugs are new and experimental and risky. We know the worst is yet to come as he faces stronger chemo treatments and a bone marrow transplant using his own stem cells. The unknown looms large even as we hope and pray that the treatment plan will cause this cancer go into remission for a long time. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moments and days have become more precious. Finding the sacred in everyday living has become the new normal~~valuing relationships more than ever the new quest. Discovering all over again that<i> things</i> can make life beautiful and interesting, but <i>people</i> give life meaning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shortly after the holidays my brother came to stay with us for almost a week while his wife needed to make a trip with her high school students. They only live 4 miles away, but he couldn't manage being alone for that long because of some mobility issues due to pain. He teased me that I hadn't babysat him in over 50 years! I can't begin to explain what a gift this special time together was for all of us. We laughed, we cried. We talked, we prayed. Then we talked and prayed some more. We ate together, watched DVD's, received visitors, went to church. With transportation help, he was able to work half days. How often do adult siblings get an opportunity to share this kind of quality time? As I like to say, we got to talk in "complete sentences" ~ something that often is a challenge when our large family gets together with all the children.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the things my brother is teaching me is to look for what he calls "God moments". He's seeing them everywhere, and I am too. Hardly a day goes by that we don't hear of someone, directly or indirectly whose life has been impacted in a positive way because of my brother's situation. Strained relationships have been healed. Practical needs have been met. Situations have fallen into place in amazing ways. People are blessing and being blessed. The stories are his to tell. But allowing God to use this cancer for His glory is my brother's heart's desire. Here is a link to <a href="http://www.donlichireport.blogspot.com/">the blog</a> he is writing. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYANYNHxj_MNVzvr55THMoz-ugG9FPEhqAlVjzaeDXud_GsPtr6Vhv3IBhRAiJER0BKGcTO5hURO4ZpoIGPAyzcC_jyxLi27TdkLxpy6rsWGHsHMVF3kjUzLGthJ8IZFiryhVrvpOpGuU/s1600/IMG_4535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYANYNHxj_MNVzvr55THMoz-ugG9FPEhqAlVjzaeDXud_GsPtr6Vhv3IBhRAiJER0BKGcTO5hURO4ZpoIGPAyzcC_jyxLi27TdkLxpy6rsWGHsHMVF3kjUzLGthJ8IZFiryhVrvpOpGuU/s320/IMG_4535.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Memorial Day '10</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Don ran in our town's 5K race. He actually has 11 marathons to his credit.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5aRlo2-aok6tUEHfVu1hQBgPK0-77dOxWgnlslNqvfeZHMrQZofLCwdxJ_RO-4mWKv4lIgHoJ98hTu94z9hXCtUV6CStELkaGeJX7nCy1N2TflOIzlGpUo8AmfrJgtWfwshyphenhyphenU7D_aUE/s1600/IMG_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5aRlo2-aok6tUEHfVu1hQBgPK0-77dOxWgnlslNqvfeZHMrQZofLCwdxJ_RO-4mWKv4lIgHoJ98hTu94z9hXCtUV6CStELkaGeJX7nCy1N2TflOIzlGpUo8AmfrJgtWfwshyphenhyphenU7D_aUE/s320/IMG_0228.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Relaxing on vacation last June. For the first time ever, all the siblings, spouses, and our mom went to the beach together.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1jJ73G4XN3kMfzOF14JYFmFIe-ebGguilMPQqjUsCifjsUmJv6P7CPrxjf0dGXIToGw4Y9pETIcX1Du35JeMNjEwsJbtwE7T7v1cuuPGj8gze5cZ5yeETILnfB_GmFd61EX3dt1ZsgQ/s1600/IMG_0394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1jJ73G4XN3kMfzOF14JYFmFIe-ebGguilMPQqjUsCifjsUmJv6P7CPrxjf0dGXIToGw4Y9pETIcX1Du35JeMNjEwsJbtwE7T7v1cuuPGj8gze5cZ5yeETILnfB_GmFd61EX3dt1ZsgQ/s320/IMG_0394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Don has always taken good physical care of himself. Here he is making all of us a juice drink.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdVzVG73nWFJtjI3BY8yTIDPYfK6gxgsTkc-p_BmhlqTgOEj2EYahVbGYyiB1RyHNdWHf9XnU4dpHt8rjSYpoji-vQAszrRGMgLGw7OAasvQoG_tHA-k_V2FrmfuLDducI_cLDrre_9k/s1600/380700_10150921811090121_789530120_21611446_198101274_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdVzVG73nWFJtjI3BY8yTIDPYfK6gxgsTkc-p_BmhlqTgOEj2EYahVbGYyiB1RyHNdWHf9XnU4dpHt8rjSYpoji-vQAszrRGMgLGw7OAasvQoG_tHA-k_V2FrmfuLDducI_cLDrre_9k/s320/380700_10150921811090121_789530120_21611446_198101274_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shortly before the diagnosis came, Don and Marcie went to see their oldest son graduate from the Navy's officer candidate school. We could never have guessed the pain he was having was due to a cancerous tumor crushing his L5 vertebrae.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you..." Ephesians 1:18a</span></i></span></div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-30014278092560216312012-01-05T07:30:00.000-05:002012-01-05T07:30:22.935-05:00Move over Olive Garden...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">PASTA FORMAGGIO WITH GRILLED CHICKEN AND FRESH SPINACH</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW158ik-KVk4_2P_z1CkK44JvW8Qix3LAEchson7TqAlhCAe6aN3uAsdNin1IGXMhr10_6PsSR-uCTqmJi3FBqvMrboA9ktGhoHalGK63Pv_Xjz2R7XdsoWCiFc6qC7K2c75nGH1WRapn9/s1600/IMG_3330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW158ik-KVk4_2P_z1CkK44JvW8Qix3LAEchson7TqAlhCAe6aN3uAsdNin1IGXMhr10_6PsSR-uCTqmJi3FBqvMrboA9ktGhoHalGK63Pv_Xjz2R7XdsoWCiFc6qC7K2c75nGH1WRapn9/s320/IMG_3330.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Yes I know...Not exactly a low fat way to start the new year! But for me when life gets tough, I play in the kitchen! Some friends took us to Olive Garden recently for our Christmas gift, and one of them had a very yummy looking dish. Of course I didn't taste it, but I tried to "study" it as much as I could. This is what I came up with...and how I did it...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-c0_SQQuW7zM-VxM0K_4Q3MaQ10Sh49D2-3Grt7bk4KtzvsCnIvi0Hi9wtis0dbhJ8scQ03s6-Bk6aMbOReCXk6vpsEuEJ-tiBmi8dvT4vGzFLFtMLaoS0C5CFuO6y3Uot64vlW0T6D5/s1600/IMG_3308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-c0_SQQuW7zM-VxM0K_4Q3MaQ10Sh49D2-3Grt7bk4KtzvsCnIvi0Hi9wtis0dbhJ8scQ03s6-Bk6aMbOReCXk6vpsEuEJ-tiBmi8dvT4vGzFLFtMLaoS0C5CFuO6y3Uot64vlW0T6D5/s320/IMG_3308.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I took two chicken breasts that I had previously grilled on my George Foreman and had frozen. I cut them in thin slices and set aside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZh65Lg90AhHMDcHNStIUIc20bAWuKYVYb-u9zgO18GBRtDVktCKFPdxewLaAZ6QWfkT6-GaEU6TdM9SacmAg2kpz4wUeL2hcGcYoNVo-ZSlTR3d9RP4o4omrwwd6D0JbYFEyHQaWJCuC/s1600/IMG_3311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZh65Lg90AhHMDcHNStIUIc20bAWuKYVYb-u9zgO18GBRtDVktCKFPdxewLaAZ6QWfkT6-GaEU6TdM9SacmAg2kpz4wUeL2hcGcYoNVo-ZSlTR3d9RP4o4omrwwd6D0JbYFEyHQaWJCuC/s320/IMG_3311.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Into a sauce pan I put 2 cups of heavy cream, 2 T. grated Asiago Cheese, 2 T. grated LeGruyee Cheese, and 2 T. grated Parmesan Cheese, 1 T. flour, 1 tsp. garlic salt. I stirred this while cooking on low heat until the cheeses melted and the flour made the mixture a little bit thick.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92SX1DWxEQnyQOBAcZxy11UmibHdhmT5RTN0_LLIEXx_OhD7RpNbT6b4gTr9kTqtoiTYGzw5J73lDkPCT5Ex4VkCrM4nXrMc-rVBe1VyhuxDloucUKAzKnqgi8T3BUs7x-FHM3_w9GU1e/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92SX1DWxEQnyQOBAcZxy11UmibHdhmT5RTN0_LLIEXx_OhD7RpNbT6b4gTr9kTqtoiTYGzw5J73lDkPCT5Ex4VkCrM4nXrMc-rVBe1VyhuxDloucUKAzKnqgi8T3BUs7x-FHM3_w9GU1e/s320/IMG_3312.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Still keeping the heat low, I then added 2-3 ozs. of fresh baby spinach...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDmipAsK3xYkEypu3rrEwrEJsZNbh56GZ9pqMvyfK1kU03LNQIrBiM3mzvKqTdRVTsBgOUHrgC9sxFMnNBlqtWk2hW_BVZOsl8xWOHYCteTa5hloq2pYO9XvpIbzZFzONiCBV2WWo2IoN/s1600/IMG_3313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDmipAsK3xYkEypu3rrEwrEJsZNbh56GZ9pqMvyfK1kU03LNQIrBiM3mzvKqTdRVTsBgOUHrgC9sxFMnNBlqtWk2hW_BVZOsl8xWOHYCteTa5hloq2pYO9XvpIbzZFzONiCBV2WWo2IoN/s320/IMG_3313.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
and the grilled chicken...and I turned the heat off...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLiM1VbCRBAVYZ44zkww4KpKSBR2weeWR_hlnbdkt835xRzsu-MadDsnfQbl7bIsnix4bGtQU2eO8qZRyJ5pQZPW8AjOOHqv4HpF2P-cLKjhs1xJo0dXhzxRuk6UsPtMSaXOTfeJ0mKtd/s1600/IMG_3316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLiM1VbCRBAVYZ44zkww4KpKSBR2weeWR_hlnbdkt835xRzsu-MadDsnfQbl7bIsnix4bGtQU2eO8qZRyJ5pQZPW8AjOOHqv4HpF2P-cLKjhs1xJo0dXhzxRuk6UsPtMSaXOTfeJ0mKtd/s320/IMG_3316.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In another pan I had boiled lasagne noodles, about 1/2 a box...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbWYH1VIwlGANrnP44Mya36xZWm0CCZVW5vWx36UBhbe24Stbcqje9U8vK97nxdzcgqN-_Q3mBd02zXiEhIItnW6BhSQwWBS7Y_x0effQq-jCZfDQ73MdNTIPQwu80f6REt2P0aHPEaIG/s1600/IMG_3317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbWYH1VIwlGANrnP44Mya36xZWm0CCZVW5vWx36UBhbe24Stbcqje9U8vK97nxdzcgqN-_Q3mBd02zXiEhIItnW6BhSQwWBS7Y_x0effQq-jCZfDQ73MdNTIPQwu80f6REt2P0aHPEaIG/s320/IMG_3317.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After draining the noodles, I put them into a casserole dish...and poured the sauce mixture on and carefully stirred it up so all the noodles were covered...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_g6xJKGUUPZuVqzsHk-vuGQdRtVfkZ2VGWCGZZnlwXTeMMt1Bwh7-pjW_6sqnLGuv45a6Bhyphenhyphen5RcMh0WlTcxAL2lQ5Cd0XQ4eaAmjZlt8vYZUDepTGQVBENnaU-TIIrsO2w8O04GAbM57/s1600/IMG_3320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_g6xJKGUUPZuVqzsHk-vuGQdRtVfkZ2VGWCGZZnlwXTeMMt1Bwh7-pjW_6sqnLGuv45a6Bhyphenhyphen5RcMh0WlTcxAL2lQ5Cd0XQ4eaAmjZlt8vYZUDepTGQVBENnaU-TIIrsO2w8O04GAbM57/s320/IMG_3320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As if there wasn't already enough cheese in this dish, I topped the whole thing with grated Mozzerella...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7RI7JM24EYma8bCUyP96hWlGJ9p7VWkJn65hh3ofF_u39z017xL7omwhN_x52jy9bVEjgDwyQ1CP-J23Q-k_xhNJrvQlaq_xx4iQ2leJMitfbMZvw7kAqmJT_a-zL253DO7Gjw2ZK0K8/s1600/IMG_3321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7RI7JM24EYma8bCUyP96hWlGJ9p7VWkJn65hh3ofF_u39z017xL7omwhN_x52jy9bVEjgDwyQ1CP-J23Q-k_xhNJrvQlaq_xx4iQ2leJMitfbMZvw7kAqmJT_a-zL253DO7Gjw2ZK0K8/s320/IMG_3321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">and baked it at 350℉ for about 30 minutes until the Mozzerella melted...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2lwrGMarEPuPspACE2EwJplMiWj0RIHRbnjQLf20aWNsi5qW6_GXVO3oR_glkIqLyIcCx_SVwYbUheZoRCkcyAKUcbwmTYpqtgimctWZp7mX-cSe4BFh75bu-LkngQX1G7f9eKhyphenhyphenwkiD/s1600/IMG_3326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2lwrGMarEPuPspACE2EwJplMiWj0RIHRbnjQLf20aWNsi5qW6_GXVO3oR_glkIqLyIcCx_SVwYbUheZoRCkcyAKUcbwmTYpqtgimctWZp7mX-cSe4BFh75bu-LkngQX1G7f9eKhyphenhyphenwkiD/s320/IMG_3326.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
and I garnished it with some more spinach leaves. If we had any good tomatoes I would have chopped some and added that as a garnish as well to make it look prettier. And if I had any fresh mushrooms in the house, I probably would have added some to the sauce.<br />
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This only took a few minutes to prepare for the oven. I hope you'll try it. Tell me if you do!<br />
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</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5423318174382795592.post-58088178771475335782012-01-03T08:10:00.000-05:002012-01-03T08:10:01.057-05:00Sacred moments...<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOOzhO4KJ3_a0pmhsLE9tZYlYeVbQqrNmRyXNRMy10SIPs_Uf7IiQL2oGALXe30zTheOvDyMnccwu2Q155Ur8D2E3j_NngD9M_45a0C2_LdopO5bYgQCvY5T15GU2_3VdgG9RkH6vFlXR/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOOzhO4KJ3_a0pmhsLE9tZYlYeVbQqrNmRyXNRMy10SIPs_Uf7IiQL2oGALXe30zTheOvDyMnccwu2Q155Ur8D2E3j_NngD9M_45a0C2_LdopO5bYgQCvY5T15GU2_3VdgG9RkH6vFlXR/s320/IMG_3304.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's only 6:15 in the morning and I've been up for almost two hours now. In the quiet and solitude I have been taking down Christmas. This is the task I always dread...not because of the work involved, but because it is such an emotional time for me. Of course I will need and welcome my hubby's help to carry the boxes to the basement, drag the tree down the steps, and remove the wreaths from the windows. But taking the hundreds of ornaments off the tree (yes, hundreds) is something I almost always do by myself. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZFko2QZxmdYb8CXZLYqH5dV7q28LNQ4WplPG-i2EXeU1AcArgaKzkedlq5-lX9MjXJThNDsSKI_9GTwlkLfcXACQSEb26NtLf1MVkKvFumFA1-WeVFXOZGgdqEJBibwzhC6zuSJI-60R/s1600/IMG_3302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZFko2QZxmdYb8CXZLYqH5dV7q28LNQ4WplPG-i2EXeU1AcArgaKzkedlq5-lX9MjXJThNDsSKI_9GTwlkLfcXACQSEb26NtLf1MVkKvFumFA1-WeVFXOZGgdqEJBibwzhC6zuSJI-60R/s320/IMG_3302.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I love the Christmas season. All of it. I love what we celebrate, the greatest moment in all of history when God came to dwell among us. I love the story that will never grow old. I hate putting all the stuff away that brings back so many precious memories of Christmas past. Because it's not really the "stuff"...it's the relationships that the stuff represents. God came to live and die as one of us to show us how to have an intimate relationship with Him. Relationships are important.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UtZ5O0bUJB6HeO4psqqLiZewfKeajCKQz-wzlJiI8vtsQcmrgo2x7i300FZ_Lz6Vl30zmT0Z03Xh_ZKyIUTI6gp80tq3MLIsDoJCbdzNvDupRwLSEYN3hvkhqepBvnaYIfxS7JrPhigu/s1600/IMG_3303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UtZ5O0bUJB6HeO4psqqLiZewfKeajCKQz-wzlJiI8vtsQcmrgo2x7i300FZ_Lz6Vl30zmT0Z03Xh_ZKyIUTI6gp80tq3MLIsDoJCbdzNvDupRwLSEYN3hvkhqepBvnaYIfxS7JrPhigu/s320/IMG_3303.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My ornaments aren't valuable in terms of their retail worth. Many of them are hand made. A few are pretty old and have sentimental value. But all of them hold a memory of a special time or of a person or a place. For 35 years now I've been accumulating ornaments and tenderly packing them away at the end of each season. I don't mean to have so many! But it just happens. The oldest one was my dad's favorite. He first hung it on the tree the year I was born. Then there's the plaster ornaments I painted for each of our boys for their respective first Christmases; the stuffed ornaments I sewed years ago; special ornaments friends and family have given me over the years; Ornaments my kids made when they were little...and now ornaments my grandchildren have made. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLnaL3rGq7R0ECx000ZairhH8giiSkEbuAVOE-rjNl-QbR5ru2NQd47vgpXgo0CallbIqCJBsqLsPg2scYUf-TKcmOgOvDR29wRVeS-usjJF0Rqxm4aVj5s2SjKm2Yrayf1EoisAp7v54/s1600/IMG_7681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLnaL3rGq7R0ECx000ZairhH8giiSkEbuAVOE-rjNl-QbR5ru2NQd47vgpXgo0CallbIqCJBsqLsPg2scYUf-TKcmOgOvDR29wRVeS-usjJF0Rqxm4aVj5s2SjKm2Yrayf1EoisAp7v54/s320/IMG_7681.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These are sacred moments for me. A quiet time where no one except God knows my inward thoughts. Only He really understands why this is so emotional for me. I don't understand it myself. I always cry. My mind always goes back in time to remember people who were once a part of my life and aren't any longer...to former times and places that have helped to shape who I am today. Maybe that's it...These ornaments help tell a story...my story...my life. It's a story of generations too. Four generations of our family are represented here. This really isn't about stuff...it's about people. People whose lives have in some way intertwined with mine. I am so blessed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayUb1Vj1lHXi1ZIRIsWr2Cef5NQf8lSw_RtPunfrO1tMqKYG20JNTmeH0Ek7qyUjErI_eJCB90F9rbf-EegOuS_dwJkUR8BZWN5fg74CzdmfiGOevZgT_X5Irw8BAXcP_Pj5ZwsJkcypS/s1600/IMG_7660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayUb1Vj1lHXi1ZIRIsWr2Cef5NQf8lSw_RtPunfrO1tMqKYG20JNTmeH0Ek7qyUjErI_eJCB90F9rbf-EegOuS_dwJkUR8BZWN5fg74CzdmfiGOevZgT_X5Irw8BAXcP_Pj5ZwsJkcypS/s320/IMG_7660.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Jacquelyn Stagerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051731884653793193noreply@blogger.com10