Water from the Well

Water from the Well---23

2009-07-31T08:28:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives." D.L. Moody

Recipe of the Week: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food cake mix
4 oz. Cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 egg

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place all ingredients in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 2 minutes. Beat on medium speed an additional 2 minutes. Shape into 1-inch balls. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Flatten each ball, in a criss-cross pattern, with the tines of a fork dipped in sugar. Bake 7-8 minutes or until edges of cookies are set. Cool 2 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to wire racks; cool completely. Enjoy!

Jazz it up: Add 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts to dough before shaping balls and baking as directed.

Did you Know? Hawaii has its own time zone: Hawaii Standard Time

Helpful Hints:

*Soften brown sugar---If your brown sugar is hard, add a few drops of water to the sugar in its plastic packaging, then microwave on MED for 10-20 seconds.
*Get extra juice---To get more juice from a lemon, lime, or orange, microwave on HIGH for 20-25 seconds. Cool briefly before juicing.
*Perk up potato chips---To crisp up stale potato chips or crackers, spread in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on HIGH until heated through. They'll be crisp again once they cool!
*Revive old honey----Got grainy, crystallized honey? Simply microwave the glass jar, uncovered, on HIGH for 20-30 seconds or until liquefied.

Pamper Time: Rough Hands
Try the yogurt and lemon hand treatment. Mix the juice of 1/2 a lemon with 6 oz. of plain yogurt. Apply to hands; let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse.

DEVO: The Winds of Change---Ephesians 5:16 "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

I have not yet put my finger on it---but I do sense a change is coming my way. I really don't know if I can adequately put my thoughts into words so that you will understand what I'm trying to say.
Have you ever felt like your life was in a "FUNK"? Like you're in "neutral" or in a holding pattern and going no where fast? For the past two weeks I have been in a "FUNK". No motivation to do anything and believe me when I say---there's plenty to do! Don't get me wrong---I've done stuff because it needs to be done--you know, like wash clothes, buy groceries, cook supper, etc. I've been going through the motions! No joy in the journey!
This has happened to me before---and I immediately intensify my dialogue with my Heavenly Father. "Lord, what's up?" "What are you trying to say to me?" "Did I miss a turn?" "Do I have un confessed sin in my life?" "Have I offended someone?" Why do I ask these questions? Because I want to know----I want to be right in the center of God's will for my life---even when it may be hard. I want everything I do to glorify Christ. I want to make a difference in the lives of others for Christ. I want to be a blessing to others, but I also want to use my time wisely. So, why am I sharing this with you? Well, one of the changes I am sensing has to do with "Water from the Well". I began this blog to minister to women----to encourage them. This is #23 and I really don't know if it is accomplishing its purpose. I have not had a lot of feedback. I don't say that "to guilt" anyone----I'm just re-evaluating. Writing a blog on a weekly basis is time intensive and if it is not accomplishing its purpose---then I am wasting a lot of time and energy. So here's what I need from you-----feedback. Does this blog encourage you? Does it minister or motivate you? Has it been helpful? Your input will be greatly appreciated.

Ladies, have a great weekend! We're getting some rain! Isn't God good?

Water from the Well---22

2009-07-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

Thought of the Week: "Heaven is full of answers to prayers for which no one ever bothered to ask." Billy Graham

Recipe of the Week: Peach Cobbler (8 servings)

6 medium peaches, sliced
1 Tabl. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
3 Tabl. reduced fat margarine
6 1/2 Tabl. Splenda
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1 cup of flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup fat free milk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large saucepan, combine peaches, 1/3 cup of Splenda, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Toss to coat peaches. Set pan on medium heat and bring to a boil. Cook until mixture thickens. Remove from heat and transfer mixture to an 8 inch square baking dish.

Topping: In a bowl, combine flour, remaining Splenda, baking powder, and salt. Work in margarine with a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk. Stir until flour mixture is moistened. Drop 8 Tabl. of topping mix onto peach mixture. Bake 20-25 minutes or until topping is brown and filling bubbly. Enjoy!

Did you know? The key to keeping fruits and vegetables fresh is to wrap them closely in plastic storage bags---too much "breathing room" causes wilting.

Helpful Hints:

*Sidestep painful blisters--Going sight-seeing or hiking this summer? Wearing 100% nylon socks helps protect your skin from the irritation that causes blisters. The worst choice: all-cotton socks, which trap wetness and creates friction.

*Un-break "broken" lipstick--Has your lipstick ever broken in half? Use your hair dryer to heat the intact base for about 20 seconds; when it is slightly melted, stick the broken part back, and smooth out the sides and place in the freezer for half an hour.

*Zipper stuck? Just apply a dollop of hair conditioner to the teeth with a cotton swab; the zipper should budge immediately!

* Piece together a broken powder or eyeshadow compact with rubbing alcohol--It's happened to everyone: You drop your powder or eye shadow, and it breaks into pieces. Just add a few drops of rubbing alcohol, smooth the mixture over with a butter knife and let dry. The powder will reformulate itself and reseal intact--so its good as new.

Keep your feet sweet-smelling! Dip them in a cool tea soak! The tannic acids in the tea draw out perspiration and toxins from the sweat pores of your soles.

1- Steep 5 black tea bags and allow to cool.
2-Pour the tea into a basin filled with cool water and orange slices which are loaded with vitamin C.
3- Soak your feet in the bath for 10 minutes, then pat dry.

DEVO: DO YOU LOVE TO GO TO CHURCH?

I love going to church! Why? Because God is always faithful to show up! For instance---this past Wednesday night our pastor was out-of-town, but God still showed up at SBC. That's what I like most about God--He's faithful! He's got a plan for my life and He's working that plan---and He uses whoever is available. It's incredible to behold! Wednesday night he used the "words" of a 17th century Roman Catholic Frenchman named Francois Fenelon to challenge and encourage me in my prayer life via John Kubia. Francois's words will take the drudgery, the mystery, and the dread out of your prayer life. After all, prayer is just carrying on a conversation with your best friend, Jesus!
PRAYER--Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, its pleasures and its pains, to a dear friend.
Tell HIM your troubles, that HE may comfort you;
Tell HIM your joys, that HE may sober you:
Tell HIM your longings, that HE may purify them;
Tell HIM your dislikes, that HE may help you to conquer them;
Talk to HIM of your temptations, that HE may shield you from them.
Show HIM the wounds of your heart, that HE may heal them,
Lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability.
Tell HIM how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and to others.
If you thus pour out all your weaknesses, needs, troubles---there will be no lack of what to say.
You will never exhaust the subject. It is continually being renewed. People who have no secrets from each other never want for subjects of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back; neither do they seek for something to say.
They talk out of an abundance of the heart, without consideration--they say just what they think.
Blessed are they who attain to such familiar unreserved intercourse with GOD.

I hope you will take Francois's message to heart ladies. I leave you with one of my favorite poems by Helen Steiner Rice. It's called Wings of Prayer

On the wings of prayer our burdens take flight
And our load of care becomes bearably light,
And our heavy hearts are lifted above
To be healed by the balm of God's wondrous love,
And the tears in our eyes are dried by the hands
Of a loving Father who understands
All of our problems, our fears, and despair,
When we take them to HIM on the WINGS of PRAYER.

Water from the Well--21

2009-07-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "If we are going to wait until every possible hindrance has been removed before we do a work for the Lord, we will never attempt to do anything." T.J. Bach

Recipe of the Week: Quick Recipes
Quick Party Dip---Stir together 1 cup of low fat plain yogurt, 2 Tabl. chopped scallions, and 2 tsp. dry steak seasoning. Serve with crackers or vegetables.

Creamy Low fat dressing--Whisk together 2 parts bottled Italian Vinaigrette salad dressing and 1 part low fat plain yogurt.

Easy Chicken Marinade--Combine 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 Tabl. whole grain mustard, and 1 tsp. dried thyme. Add 1 lb. boneless chicken breasts; turn to coat. Refrigerate 1 hour; drain; cook as desired.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes--Toss 4 oz. red potatoes, halved with 1/2 tsp. each of olive oil, chopped garlic and rosemary. Cook on 350 degrees until golden brown. Season with salt.

Did you know? A 15-minute change of scenery is enough to boost happiness, creativity, and relaxation.

Helpful Hints:

De-spot stainless steel appliances--Make the water spots on your fridge disappear with rubbing alcohol. It removes spots and dries with out streaking.

Spray grungy plastic furniture--with shaving cream, let sit a few minutes, then wipe dirt away with a soft brush and hose off.

Give dust mites the boot--Simply combine a half cup of Borax with your usual detergent when washing sheets and pillowcases and use water that's at least 122 degrees F.

Fix bleach marks---If your black shirt has a bleached out spot, fill it in with a permanent black marker.

DEVO: A Challenging Love--Romans 13:10--" Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."

Loving your neighbor as yourself, Jesus said, was the second greatest commandment, following only the command to love God completely. Then he commented that all scripture was based on these truths (Matthew 22:37-40).

Loving God isn't hard to understand, even when we struggle to perfect our love. Though we often don't comprehend Jesus, we accept that He's bigger and greater than we and knows what's best for us.

But loving a neighbor, especially a difficult one, that can be a real challenge. Will the action we're contemplating do harm to her? Will telling a family member what we think or how he's hurt us just cause more trouble or bring a resolution we've been seeking? Even when we want to do right, we often struggle with the details.

Love comes in many packages. If we need to hold back a harsh word, that's love. But love can also mean speaking the truth kindly and gently, at a moment when a friend or family member is willing to hear. How can we tell which is necessary?

Before we take an action, we can begin by testing our own hearts. Is there bitterness or criticism there? Then we cannot fulfill God's law. Are we suiting this simply to our own sense of timing, when another's not ready to listen? Then God is not likely to be pleased with that action.

Love looks more to the needs of others than ourselves. It takes into account their hearts, minds, and souls. Fulfilling the law is never easy for humans. It takes a God-sized heart to do that well--that's why we can only do it through Jesus. (Taken from Daily Wisdom To Satisfy the Soul by Pamela McQuade)

Misc.

Check out this website: www.hungry-girl.com

Balance your body with color--wear light colors where you're small and darker ones where you're larger--dark hues make problem areas recede, and light ones help bring attention where you want it.

Have a great weekend ladies!

Water from the Well--20

2009-07-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "Second only to suffering, waiting may be the greatest teacher and trainer in godliness, maturity, and genuine spirituality most of us ever encounter." Richard Hendrix

Recipe of the Week: Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake (9 servings)

2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
1 cup chopped pecans

Streusel:
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup cold butter or margarine

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add egg, milk, and butter; beat well. Fold in blueberries and pecans. Spread into a greased 9 in. square baking pan. In another bowl, combine sugar and flour; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter. Bake at 375 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Did you know? When our surroundings are neat, we automatically feel calmer.

3 Clutter Cures every Woman Needs--by Peter Walsh (Clutter expert and author)

1. Try the closet trick--Each time you wear an item, turn the hangar to face the other way. At the end of 6 months, see what hasn't been turned around. Now, ask, "Will I ever wear it?" If the answer is no, donate it to a charity.
2. In the kitchen, use the cardboard box test--Empty everything out of your kitchen gadget drawer into a cardboard box. Every time you use something, put it back in the drawer. After 4 weeks check the box and consider giving away the extras.
3. Clear flat surfaces--Too often we let surfaces become extra storage. Focus on one surface at a time, and find a home for whatever is there. Seeing it clean with help you feel less overwhelmed.

Word of the Week: "FREEDOM"--the state of being free; personal liberty or national independence; exemption, release. Romans 6:22 describes it this way--"But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, you have your fruit unto holiness and the end everlasting life." Now that's freedom!

Helpful Hints:

*File this way to stop splits--If your nails tend to break, chip, and split, your filing style could be the culprit. Sawing back and forth weakens nails, so make sure you move the file in one direction only.
*Soak your way to radiant skin--Add 2 handfuls of Epsom salts to a bath of warm water. The salts pull out toxins in your skin, making it look more glowing and beautiful.
*Make your cut-flowers last longer--Put them in 1 quart of lukewarm water with 1 tsp. sugar, 1 tsp. bleach, and 2 Tabl. lemon juice. This elixir balances the water's pH and kills bacteria.
*Keep this in your living room--A lint-roller---then a couple of times a week---even while watching TV--roll it over lampshades, curtains, and pillows to remove dust or pet hair. You'll nip the buildup in the bud and save yourself hours of vacuuming!

DEVO: Peace in Prayer

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

God doesn't want us to worry, get stressed out or bothered. So He offers a solution to those states of mind: prayer. Nothing in this world is beyond His control, He reminds us--there's nothing He won't be happy to help us with, if only we mention it to Him.
So why stick to our own worrywart tendencies or attempt to find other ways around the problem? Maybe we think we don't need to bother God with something "this small." He'd be glad to help with anything, even the tiniest problem. Nothing is below the notice of Him who created subatomic particles. Or maybe we figure we don't need help on this one. He'll be there to share the good things, and if an unexpected trouble comes up, He'll be happy to assist us, too.
God's trying to tell us He wants to be a part of every moment of our lives. Whether it's something we simply need to mention or a deep concern we petition for a long time, He's interested.
Only when we give Him all our anxieties can He have the kind of impact on our lives--and on the lives of others to whom we minister--He's always had in mind. Then we'll also experience two unexpected benefits: thanksgiving and peace. We'll appreciate what our Savior begins to give and offer Him thanks, deepening and expanding our trust relationship. As we do that, harmony will fill our lives. Find peace in prayer today.

Happy 4th of July, ladies!

Water from the Well--19

2009-06-26T15:01:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "Don't wait for your ship to come in; swim out to it!

Recipe of the Week: Cookies and Cream Milkshakes (makes 4 servings)

2-(100 calorie packages of Oreo cookies)
2 Tabl. chocolate syrup
1 pint low fat vanilla frozen yogurt---slightly softened
1 cup (1 %) low fat milk
1 tsp. vanilla
Optional: fat free whipped topping, chocolate sprinkles, and a maraschino cherry

In a small bowl, mix cookies and syrup; reserve. In a blender, whirl frozen yogurt, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add cookie mixture; pulse until just combined but still chunky. Pour into 4- 8oz. glasses. If desired, garnish each with whipped topping, chocolate sprinkles, and a cherry.

Did you know? Popsicles were invented in 1905 by 11-year old Frank Epperson, who called them "Epsicles". When he grew up his kids asked for "pops' sicles"--and the popsicle was born!

Helpful Hints: Stress-free Beach Day

*Burn-proof yourself--For maximum protection, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours. A spray formula makes it easier to cover hard to reach places.
*Get rid of sticky sand--Try the beach volleyball players' trick for getting rid of sand. Bring along a small bottle of baby powder and sprinkle on sandy legs before heading home. Sand will brush off like magic!
*Calm skin with these comforting wipes--The most soothing way to treat pink or sunburned skin is with baby wipes made with aloe. Designed to reduce inflammation and gently cool on contact, they give you instant relief---and cost only pennies.

"Pamper-Time"--Make your own: Aruba Aloe Body Butter (moisturizer)

4 oz. 100 % aloe vera gel
4 tsp. cornstarch
1 Tabl. witch hazel
3-4 drops of peppermint oil
Mix aloe, cornstarch, witch hazel, and peppermint in a glass bowl. Then transfer to a small pot. Heat on low, stirring frequently until mixture is thick and clear. When cool, scoop into a small container and cover tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Flying soon? Read this---Close quarters and recirculated air are two reasons one in five airline passengers develops a cold within a week of flying. Fight germs by carrying alcohol-based antibacterial wipes; use them on armrests, seat-trays, and your hands. Also moisten nasal passages with a nasal gel, such as Ayr Saline Nasal Gel with Soothing aloe to help keep out bacteria and viruses.

Teresa Thoughts: "Warp-Speed Transitions"
Have you ever felt like your life was in "Warp Speed"? Now I know some of you don't have a clue about "Warp speed". That term kind of clues you in on my age and that's okay---I'll admit that I used to be a dedicated TREKKIE. My sisters and I lived for those awesome "Trek-a-Rama Weekends when Capt. Kirk and Spock explored strange new worlds and dared to boldly go where no man had gone before!
Have you ever boldly gone somewhere you've never been before? Well, right now in my universe I'm boldly going many places I've never been before and yes, I truly believe sometimes I'm traveling at Warp speed! These warp-speed transitions all started for me last August. We began planning a wedding for my daughter, Rebekah that sort of consumed us until December. The whole time we were planning and preparing I kept thinking to myself--my little Rebekah can't be old enough to get married---why just yesterday we were sipping tea and eating crumpets at a tea party. By the way---the wedding was gorgeous! Then Christmas arrived and I thought I'd get a little reprieve, but that was not to be---Track season started up and here I was going all over Georgia (not in the Starship Enterprise) but in my Honda Accord and as we were warp traveling down the Interstate--this thought kept coming to my mind--Holly can't possibly be old enough to be on the track team at WRHS--it just seemed like we brought her home from the hospital not too long ago. And can I say---sitting in the bleachers is a very hot business! That lasted for about 3 months and thoughts of rest came to my mind again--but no---then came awards nights, cook-outs, graduation activities for Jeremy. Keith has always said I have a very fertile mind---and more thoughts invaded quickly---"I can't believe my little boy is old enough to graduate." Where did the time go?
A week later we left for our family vacation--a bittersweet vacation for us because it would be Jeremy's last with us as a family---but boy did we laugh and have a blast! Very memorable! And then warp-speed jumped into gear again---and it was like Capn. Kirk called down to the transporter room and said "beam Jeremy Thomas to Parris Island"--of course it was really his recruiter. And as I watched that van disappear with my son---God reminded me ever so gently that my job with Jeremy and Rebekah was done and now I could finally "REST" in the Lord. I have boldly gone to places I've never been before----and I have done amazing things---and do you know what the really neat thing is about all this----I did it while being a MOM! Don't tell me that being ---JUST a mom ----is not an exciting adventure or a great job!

I hope you ladies have a great weekend! You are all such a blessing to my life and I'm so glad that God has placed each one of you in my pathway.

Water from the Well---18

2009-06-19T16:21:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "Trust is our gift back to God.... the way of trust is a movement into obscurity, into the undefined, into ambiguity, not into some predetermined, clearly delineated plan for the future." Brennan Manning

Recipe of the Week: Chocolate Eclair Squares (16 servings)
2 cups cold milk
2 pkgs. (3.4 oz.) Jello vanilla instant pudding mix
1 tub (8oz.) Cool Whip, thawed
64 Nilla Wafers
2 squares Baker's Semi-Sweet chocolate

Beat milk and pudding mixes with a whisk for 2 minutes. Stir in Cool Whip. Arrange 16 wafers on the bottom of an 8 inch square dish; cover with 1/3 of pudding mixture. Repeat layers twice. Top with remaining wafers. Refrigerate for 4 hours. Microwave chocolate in a microwaveable bowl on HIGH for 1 minute or until melted when stirred. Drizzle over dessert.

DID YOU KNOW? White roses symbolize respect and innocence, yellow roses signify friendship, and red roses signify passionate love.

Helpful Hints:
*Easy way to clean faux flowers---To keep faux flowers looking fresh, wipe the petals and leaves with a clean used fabric softener sheet. The anti-static qualities of the sheet will keep the flowers from attracting dust, so you don't have to clean as often.
*Get your diamonds dazzling---Soak for 20 minutes in a mixture of 1 cup of warm water and 1/4 cup of ammonia--rinse and dry with a tissue.
*Sweet sunburn relief---Mix 1 tsp. aloe vera gel with 1 tsp. honey. Apply to affected area for 5 minutes, then rinse. This is done best in the shower.
*Keep silver shiny with chalk---A stick of white blackboard chalk in your silver drawer will absorb the sulfur compounds that blacken flatware.
*Mush-proof your bananas---Bananas are sold at room temperature because they're shipped before they're ripe---once they ripen, store them in the fridge to slow the ripening process. The peal will turn black, but the flesh will stay yellow and firm. You can keep banana 5 extra days with this trick.

Make your own 100 calorie snacks:
4 Hershey Kisses
5 Nilla Wafers
10 dry-roasted almonds or cashews
10 animal crackers
26 grapes
30 oyster crackers

DEVO: The Waiting Room (from Journey)
"Be silent before the LORD and wait expectantly for Him" Psalm 37:7
Waiting. Unfortunately, there's no avoiding it. If God is going to do something in your life, He's likely going to make you wait for it. Obviously, God's timing is not based on our schedules---He even says a thousand years are like a day to Him (see Psalm 90:4). So why does He make us wait? Doesn't He hear that clock ticking? Maybe you're waiting for God to do something through you. Maybe you're just waiting for answers or clarity because your life feels like a big, muddled, gray cloud of haziness. Waiting feels weak, powerless, and irresponsible. You think, "I should be doing something with my life," but you don't know what to do. You feel stuck. But its during these sometimes painfully long sessions in the waiting room that God has your undivided attention. When you're in the "not-knowing" state, all you have is faith---God gives you nothing else to stand on except HIM. In this place, you are meek and needy. Prayers of utter dependence emerge, and slowly God develops in you a childlike faith and dependence on HIM. As you wait, you're slowly but powerfully transformed into someone who knows one thing with certainty--how much you need GOD. Rather than wish away a period of waiting, develop the practice of trusting GOD. Trust is usually developed during times of trial, even if waiting for GOD can sometimes be tough. If GOD showed us what was ahead and gave us all the answers, we would never have to really trust HIM. If we didn't have to trust HIM, we wouldn't understand what it means to really love HIM and give our lives over to HIM. So let's practice Psalm 23:5----"Guide me in your truth and teach me, for You are the GOD of my salvation; I wait for you all day long."

This weekend is Father's Day. It's a tough weekend for me because I miss my dad immensely. If your father is still alive---cease the moment, ladies----tell him how much you appreciate and love him---make him feel extra special---time is so fleeting----do not miss this opportunity to show love to your Father. Have a great weekend, ladies!

Water from the Well---17

2009-06-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "If God does not enter your kitchen, there is something wrong with your kitchen. If you can't take God into your recreation, there is something wrong with your play....We all believe in the God of the heroic. What we need most these days is the God of the humdrum---the commonplace, the everyday." Peter Marshall

Recipe of the Week: Rocky Road Brownies (Makes 8 servings)

4 egg whites, whipped
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tabl. vanilla
1/2 cup cocoa powder, sifted
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 cup marshmallow cream

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a mixing bowl, combine baking powder, cocoa, salt and flour. In another bowl combine egg whites, sugar, vanilla, and marshmallow cream. Mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients. Pour into baking dish. Bake for 18 minutes or until done.

DID YOU KNOW? Khakis originated in 1845 when British soldiers stationed in India soaked their white uniforms in mud, coffee, or curry powder to blend in with the landscape.

Helpful Hints:
*Dryer Sheets- Dryer sheets are just as effective cut in half. They're also super air fresheners, and their anti-static properties make them great for dusting, too!
*Ease tweezing pain--To quell the pain from plucking brows, dab on an over the counter toothache medicine to the area to be plucked a few minutes before you tweeze to numb it.
*Healthy plants--To feed plants minerals, once a month, water plants with 2 Tabl. of Epsom Salts dissolved into 1 gallon of warm water.
*Relieve muscle pain--Add a handful of Epsom Salts to your bathwater to draw out toxins that cause achiness.
*Getting perspiration stains out of clothes--For washable items--try dabbing the stain with a solution of 1 Tabl. ammonia and 1/2 cup of water, then toss it in the washer and wash as usual.

WORD OF THE WEEK: "CONTENTMENT"--means ease of mind--satisfaction. It is an internal satisfaction which does not demand changes in external circumstances. Are you really content?
1 Tim. 6:6-8 say, "Now Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these shall we be content."

DEVO: My Princess....Your Life is a Symphony! (Taken from His Princess--Love Letters from Your KING by Sheri Rose Shepherd)

Psalm 40:3 NIV--"He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our GOD. Many will see what He has done and be astounded. They will put their trust in the LORD."

You are to Me a beautiful song. Your life is a sweet symphony that I Myself am composing note by note. I take your failures, your tears, and your triumphs, and I turn them into glorious harmony that will be sung in the heavens for all eternity. All your thoughts and deeds are laid before me like notes on a page. Every choice you make is a significant chord in an eternal arrangement. Don't let the noise of the world destroy your magnificent melody. My beloved, Seek Me in the quiet stillness of the morning, and I will fill your heart with divine music. Stay in rhythm with My Spirit throughout the day, and I will make your life an irresistible medley that will linger like sweet perfume in the hearts of all that journey with you. Walk with Me in absolute surrender, and you will draw others to Me in a rhapsody of praise.

Love,

Your King and Your Composer

Wow! what a great KING we serve. Ladies let's submit to HIM and see what beautiful music He can create in our lives, okay? I will be on vacation this coming week in Florida, so there will probably not be a new Water from the Well next Friday. I hope all of you have a great weekend!

P.S. For you Bible teachers out there: The Lamb's Well has J. Vernon McGee's Through the Bible Commentaries on sale for $5.00 each while supplies last.

Water from the Well--16

2009-05-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."

Recipe of the Week: Peanut Butter Cookies (less fat version)

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup Eggbeaters
1/4 cup honey
2 Tabl. melted butter
1/2 cup reduced fat creamy peanut butter
4 tsp. coarsely chopped honey-roasted peanuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 2 baking sheets with cooking spray. In a small bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt; reserve. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, Eggbeaters, honey, and butter until smooth. Whisk in peanut butter. Stir in reserved flour mixture until just combined. Drop by rounded tablespoons, 2" apart, onto baking sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges are just set. Press a few peanuts onto each hot cookie. Cool completely on baking sheets.

Did you know? The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest and narrowest national park in the world!

Helpful Hints:

* Make patio furniture shine! Protect the frames of aluminum, plastic, and painted metal outdoor furniture by giving it two thin coats of car wax. It gives the furniture a special glow and protects it from rain, dust, tree droppings, and other harmful substances.
*Easy linen storage! Use a multi-tiered skirt hanger to store folded tablecloths wrinkle-free.
*Nicer-smelling sheets and towels--Place a wrapped bar of scented soap in your linen closet to keep sheets and towels smelling terrific.
*Make instant-cool ice packs--Buy everyone in the family a different colored washcloth, dampen them, stick in individual plastic bags, and place in the freezer. Kids can then go to the freezer anytime, grab their washcloth and apply it to their faces, neck, or wrists to beat the heat!

Top Tips for a Beautiful Window Box

*Plant trailers in front for a bursting-with-blooms look! Choose petunias in sun, lobelias for sun or part shade, and ivy geraniums in shade.
*Coordinate your colors--If you're using all one kind of flower, add interest, with several related shades. Or try two flowers of different sizes and shapes that match in color.
*Carve our some space! Window boxes also work well to mark the perimeter of any outdoor "room". They can act as a low wall to define the space or adorn an existing wall or railing.

DEVO: Are you a "Barney Girl"? Do you have any "BG's" in your life?

What is a "Barney Girl"? I'm glad you asked! The "coined" phrase "Barney Girls" was first introduced during a SS lesson that I was teaching to the ladies 40's class at SBC when we were studying 1 and 2 Thessalonians. It comes from "Barnabas"--a man known for encouraging and exhorting others in their faith--especially the apostle Paul. Since I can't be a man and have never wanted to be one--I decided that I could at least be "like" Barnabas---a female version if you will--hence the title "Barney Girl" or BG for short.
So what does a "Barney Girl" do? A "Barney Girl" tries to bring sunshine and joy wherever she goes--she smiles---she hugs---she speaks words of encouragement---she cares---she listens-- she prays with you when you're frazzled---she sends encouraging devotionals via email--she may challenge you--- or exhort you to be all that God wants you to be--or she could just make you feel welcome. Being a BG is never boring---its actually like an adventure! Everybody needs a "Barney Girl" in their life! I have several BG's in my life! I have one that prays for me and speaks words of encouragement to my soul. I have another that daily sends me encouraging messages from God. I have a hugger BG and she always has a welcoming smile to share. And yet another that from time to time brings me surprise gifts--a flower, a cup of tea and Biscotti, or a card to boost my spirits. BG's are awesome to have in your life---I look at my BG's as blessings from GOD and I am so thankful for them!
Now---here's the really cool thing God has shown me through the "Barney Girls". I had to become a "Barney Girl" myself---FIRST. And when I started encouraging others, I was amazed how God worked through me and in me to change my perspective. Before I knew it--BG's started popping up all around me---It was so exciting to see! I first saw it last summer at one of the the ladies salad suppers. There were 3 BG's present at that salad supper that were floating around from table to table meeting and greeting as many "new" ladies as they possibly could. It was spectacular to watch! I believe "old Barnabas" would have been proud of those "Barney Girls"! So what about you? Are you a "Barney Girl"? You can be one-- if you want to! Do you have any BG's in your life? If so, thank God for them and let them know how much you appreciate them! BG 1 signing out!

I hope all of you ladies have a great weekend. Don't forget to thank a veteran, a soldier, or a soldiers wife sometime this weekend. Freedom is not free---it is very costly! God bless all of you!

Water from the Well---15

2009-05-15T05:01:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "All children are gifted..... some just open their package sooner than others."

Recipe of the Week: Smothered Pork Chops with Mushrooms (4 servings)
4- boneless center-cut pork chops
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1- can of reduced fat condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/4 cup of water
4 carrots, chopped
1/4 lb. sliced mushrooms
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. dried marjoram
1 tsp. dried thyme

Salt and pepper pork chops. Spray skillet with non-stick spray--set on medium high heat. Brown chops. Place the soup, water, carrots, mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, majoram, and thyme in a slow cooker. Mix well. Place browned chops on top of vegetable mixture. Cover and cook 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.

Check out this website for more recipes: www.dwlz.com

Did You Know? There are 25,000 different types of orchids.

Helpful Hints:
*Buff away scuffs--Remove marks from vinyl floors by rubbing with a clean dry tennis ball.
*Odor free freezer--To get rid of freezer odor, place a few slices of ordinary white bread into the freezer for 3-4 days. Remove bread, the odors will disappear.
*Too much perfume--No problem! Dip a cotton pad or ball into rubbing alcohol and sweep it over the scented area. The alcohol will evaporate some of the fragrance oils, leaving you perfectly perfumed.
*Quadruple your razor blades life--Razor blades can be costly, but there's a way to make yours last up to 4X longer. Carefully dry the blades after each use. Water oxidizes the metal on the blade, causing corrosion that makes the blade become blunt and jagged.
*Better biscuits--For taller, airy biscuits, don't twist the cutter, when cutting out the dough. This "seals" the edges flat, preventing the biscuits from rising a lot.
*No more slugs in your garden--Slugs steer clear of caffeine, so scatter as thin layer of coffee grounds on the soil around plants (especially Hostas) and they'll gladly stay away.
*No more nibbles--Keep rabbits from taking a bite out of your seedlings with a sprinkle of garlic powder. Rabbits do not like the scent.

If you have any success stories with keeping varmints away from your garden, please share. I'm always looking for new solutions--especially dealing with squirrels.

DEVO: What in the World Does a Mom Do All Day? by Linda Weber

Being a mom is a job with a "capital J". We work our fingers to the bone, push our nerves to the edge, and use every skill we have to accomplish this God-given privilege called "Motherhood".

Well, first---here's what I am: I am a baby feeder, changer, bather, rocker, burper, hugger & listener to crying and fussing and thousands of questions.
I am a picker-upper of food and debris cast on the floor, a comforter, encourager, counselor. I am a linguistic expert for 2 year old dialects, a listener to my husband and the children---about their day, their needs, their concerns, their aspirations. I am a teacher of everything from how to chew food to how to drive a car. I am an assistant on school projects and a censor of TV, movies, and books. I am a reader of thousand of children's books and a planner & hostess of children's birthday parties and dinner parties. I am central control for getting the appliance fixed or the carpet shampooed. I am an executioner of ants, roaches, wasps, and other pests. I am the resident historian in charge of photo albums, baby books, and school record books. I am the resident encyclopedia source for all those hard questions. I am the defroster of the freezer and a food preservation expert. I am the keeper and locator of birth certificates and other valuable documents. I am the ironer of wrinkles. I am the appointment desk for all family visits to the doctor, dentist, the orthodontist, the barber, and the mechanic. I am the one who prays. I am the cleaner of the oven, the drawers, the closets, the garage, the curtains,the windows, and even the walls. I am the refinisher of furniture. I am the emergency medical technician and ambulance driver and finally I am my hubby's romantic, attentive spouse.

And what are some things I do? I clip 10 fingernails, and 10 toenails for each young child. I return library books, get film developed, choose gifts, purchase gifts, wrap gifts for birthdays, Christmas, Father's Day, Mother's Day, wedding showers, baby showers, and anniversaries. I mail packages, buy stamps, drop off the dry cleaning and pick up the dry cleaning. I haul everything that needs repair. I attend recitals, every school sporting event imaginable, and chauffeur everyone everywhere. I comb little girl's hair, help in the classroom, and attend PTA meetings and conferences. I act as a room mother, making things and organizing parties. I chaperon field trips and special events. I coordinate car pools, make bank deposits and withdrawals. I deliver forgotten lunches, forgotten homework and forgotten athletic gear. I lead Scouts, and Sunday School classes, and make out grocery list, purchase groceries, put groceries away, and then cook great nutritional meals---and so much more!

Now you may be thinking---why is Teresa writing about this subject when Mother's Day was last week. I wanted to share this with you to encourage you--- seize every moment you have with your children and husband---make every day special---make it count for something-- because one day you will open your eyes and your son or daughter will be walking down the aisle to graduate or get married. It will seem like yesterday that you were changing those diapers or cleaning up yet another of their messes. I know this to be true because my first born daughter is married and my second born daughter got married last December and my son will graduate from high school on the 30th of this month. Time has flown by so quickly! When I was in the midst of diapers and bottles, I thought that was hard and that it would never end---but now---I know that the diaper and bottle days were the easiest part of being a mom. Letting go and launching them out into the world is one of those "bittersweet" seasons we all have to go through---and yes, I am very emotional! When my son gets on that bus to go to the United States Marine Corp at Paris Island I will cry---there is no doubt in my mind--but I will also pray and praise God for allowing me the privilege of being a MOTHER!

I hope all of you ladies have a great weekend. Seize the moment!

Water from the Well---14

2009-05-08T06:01:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week:

"I believe in the love of all mothers, and its importance in the lives of the children they bear. It is stronger than steel, softer than down, and more resilient than a green sapling on the hillside. It closes wounds, melts disappointments, and enables the weakest child to stand tall and straight in the fields of adversity. I believe that this love, even at its best, is only a shadow of the love of God...And I believe that one of the most beautiful sights in the world is a mother who lets this greater love flow through her to her child, blessing the world with the tenderness of her touch and the tears of her joy." John Killinger

Recipes of the Week: Black and White Malted Milkshake (makes 2 servings)

4 scoops of vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup of milk
2 Tabl. chocolate syrup
2 Tabl. malted milk powder

Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.

OR: Smoothie Sensation

In a blender combine---1 peeled banana, 2 Tabl. peanut butter, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth.

DID YOU KNOW? Americans eat more ice cream than people in any other country---more than 23 quarts per person a year! Our favorite flavor? Vanilla.

Helpful Hints:

* Speedy Cake Clean-Up--Before mixing a cake, coat the beaters with cooking spray. The batter won't cling to the beaters.
* Tastier pancakes--Boost the flavor of pancakes or waffles by stirring a tablespoon of maple syrup into the batter before cooking.
*Potato salad helper--When boiling potatoes for salad, add a little white vinegar to the water. The vinegar helps to keep the outside of the cooked potatoes firm, so they hold their shape better when cut.
* Keep Flour Fresh--To keep your flour bug-free during the summer months, add a bay leaf to the container. Its a natural insect repellent!

Pamper Time: In-shower Chocolate-Sugar Scrub

Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 Tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with enough water to make a past. Massage into dry skin, and then shower off as usual.

Hot Milk and Almond Pedicure: Heat a half gallon of milk until warm--NOT BOILING! Pour into a dishpan or large bowl. Add 5 drops of sweet almond oil. Soak feet in milk mixture for 10 minutes, and then gently rub feet with a pumice stone to remove dead skin. Rinse well, pat dry and follow with a foot lotion and your favorite polish.

DEVO: Taken from The 100 Most Important Bible Verses for Women

Peace That Goes Soul-Deep---Phil. 4:6-7

Peace. What a lovely word. Perhaps every woman envisions a different setting when she thinks of peace. One might think of a long, hot bubble bath. Another might think of a garden filled with fragrant flowers. Someone else might think of an afternoon with no children around. Whatever the vision, most women welcome moments of calmness and rest in their lives.
Peace goes deeper than external settings, though. Peace is an issue that goes all the way to the heart and soul--the inner core of your life. Here's the scoop on how to find total peace: take every concern and worry in your life to God in prayer. God is not just willing to listen to your cares, but He also urges you to talk to Him about whatever is on your mind and heart.
When you talk to God about everything, something amazing happens. Suddenly you are filled with a peace that you didn't have before. You may not be able to understand why you feel so at rest. Sometimes this peace defies explanation because every logical bone in your body may tell you that you need to be concerned about an issue; but this calmness fills your soul, and instinctively you know God is in control. That is true peace.
God invites you to tell Him everything that is on your mind. He will give you peace when you do.

I close today hoping that all of you mothers have a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. I will be spending the weekend with my mother. If you still have your mother---let her know you care and tell her what she means to you---if your mother has already passed on, reflect on the good times you shared together. I leave you with a Helen Steiner Rice poem called A Mother's Love.

A Mother's love is something
that no can explain,
It is made of deep devotion
and of sacrifice and pain,
It is endless and unselfish
and enduring come what may
For nothing can destroy it
or take that love away.....
It is patient and forgiving
when all others are forsaking,
And it never fails or falters
even though the heart is breaking....
It believes beyond believing
when the world around condemns,
And it glows with all the beauty
of the rarest, brightest gems....
It is far beyond defining,
it defies all explanation,
And it still remains a secret
like the mysteries of creation....
A many-splendored miracle
man cannot understand
And another wondrous evidence
of God's tender guiding hand.

Water from the Well---13

2009-05-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week:

"Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can". John Wesley

Recipe of the Week: Cola Chicken (4 servings)

4 skinless boneless chicken breasts
1 cup ketchup
12 oz. can diet cola

Put chicken in a non-stick skillet. Pour ketchup and diet cola over the top. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and cook for 45 minutes. Uncover, turn up the heat and continue to cook until the sauce becomes thick and adheres to the chicken. It turns into the most incredible barbecue sauce.

Did you know? You probably know that the back of your refrigerator is cooler than the front--but did you know the lower shelves are cooler than the higher ones? So, keep perishable items like milk, meat, and fish as low as you can possibly put them, and they'll last a few days longer. Eggs last twice as long stored low--and in the carton they came in.

Helpful Hints:
* Keep pictures straight! Glue a thin slice or two of cork on the back of hanging picture frames. Cork naturally grips surfaces, so pictures stay put.

*Wet your hair before going into the pool and it won't soak up as much drying chlorine.

*Buying "fresh" beans--Lightly bend a bean between your thumb and index finger. If it snaps, its fresh. If it just bends, its old.

*Gardening trick: Want to keep bunnies away from your seedlings? Sprinkle baby powder on the the new plants---rabbits hate it!

Word of the Week: "Invincible"--means incapable of being conquered, overcome, or subdued.

Are you determined to be invincible--until God has finished His purpose in you?

Dealing with mosquitoes:
*Don't wear navy or dark colors--mosquitoes are attracted to these colors. Wear pale earth tones such as olive, khaki, or beige.

*Do not garden in the evenings or early morning--its mosquito prime-time!

*Don't wear sweet-scented body products--they are drawn to such smells.

*Before gardening or working outside---rub down legs, arms, and neck with a dryer sheet--mosquitoes don't like the smell.

*Or you can try a new spray by Repel that is plant based with no DEET called Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent--be aware that it has a strong smell!

DEVO: Taken from Daily Wisdom To Satisfy the Soul by Pamela McQuade

1 Corinthians 1:4--"I always thank God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus".

When God gives another, younger Christian a great blessing, are you thankful or jealous? Paul felt thankful that a powerful blessing had fallen on the Corinthians. Though they were still young believers and didn't have it all together, the correction Paul administered in this letter was not done from a sense of jealousy. A few verses later, the apostle lets them know he isn't interested in making himself famous, but in lifting up Jesus. From one who had worked to develop thriving churches on two continents, his sense of humility is amazing.
God doesn't give any of us blessings to start a game of "Who Can Top This?" Competition for "spiritual position" just isn't part of His plan. Realizing the futility of such desires, Paul committed himself to doing the real job---reaching people for Jesus---instead of trying to make himself look good.
How many of our churches could learn from Paul's example? How often we could benefit from following in his footsteps, lifting up others who are new to the faith and need encouragement, as well as another lesson in what it means to love Jesus.
Is there a new Christian in your church who's doing great things for God, even though he doesn't know the scriptures as well as you do? Come alongside him and encourage him. Offer to help him however you can. Make it a priority to pray for him. Then thank God for the blessings He's given you, too, and make the most of your gifts, so that together you can lead people to Jesus.

Until next week ladies---have a great weekend and remember to pray for one another!

Water from the Well--12

2009-04-24T05:07:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: The most important things in your home are the people!

Recipe of the Week: Chocolate Banana Loaf Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
3/4 cup sugar
2 Tabl. butter at room temperature
2 bananas, mashed
1/2 cup vanilla soy milk
2 egg whites
1 oz. semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
strawberries and mint

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a loaf pan with cooking spray; and then coat with flour. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and soda. In a medium bowl, mix sugar and butter until combined. Stir in flour mixture until just blended. Stir in bananas, milk and egg whites; batter will be slightly lumpy. Stir 2/3 cup of the batter into the melted chocolate. Pour the remaining plain batter into the loaf pan. Spoon chocolate batter over plain batter in pan; swirl batter slightly. Bake 55-60 minutes or until pick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on rack. Mix confectioners' sugar with 1 1/2 tsp of water; drizzle over cake. Garnish with strawberries and mint leaf.

Did you know? A recent study at Rutgers University showed that flowers have an immediate universal positive impact on happiness!

Helpful Hints: Fast Fixes for Fashion Emergencies:

*Slingback shoes slipping down? Attach a piece of double-sided sticky tape--or one of Scholl's invisible gel slingback strips--to the inside of each strap to keep them from falling down.

*Deodorant Marks? Rub off smudges with a balled-up pair of panty hose.

*Sore blister? The best on-the-go fix is a dollop of lip balm.

*Too much perfume? Soften an intense scent by patting spritzed areas with a damp paper towel or cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.

*Run in your hose? Rub a bar of soap at the top of the run to keep if from spreading.

Word of the Week: "BLOOM"--to produce or yield flowers; to mature; to glow with healthy color; a state or time of beauty and vigor; an appearance of freshness.

Are you blooming where God has planted you?

DEVO: Don't Fall Apart--taken from Starting Your Day Right Devotions by Joyce Meyer

But He said to me, "My grace is enough for you; for My strength and power are made perfect and show themselves most effective in your weakness." 2 Cor. 12:9

Come apart and spend some time with God before you come apart. No matter how strong and healthy you are, no matter what your age is , no matter what you think you know, without God, you are going to get weary and tired.

God doesn't get tired, and the Word says He gives power to the faint and weary, and increases strength to those who have no might. But those who wait for the Lord, who expect, look for, and hope in Him, will be renewed (see Isaiah 40:29-31). God is willing to increase your strength. Get alone with Him anytime you need to be strengthened.

Smart Ways to use Wax Paper:
1. Bye-bye, water spots!--To prevent water spots, rub chrome fixtures with wax paper after cleaning, then buff lightly. You'll leave a thin coating that deflects water and helps stop smudges!
2. Easy-glide shower curtain!--Shower curtain not sliding easily? Rub a little wax paper on the bar and the curtain will glide smoothly! Also works well on dresser drawers that are hard to open and close.
3. No-fuss fridge solution!--Forget struggling to wipe the top of your fridge! Cover the surface with wax paper: It'll catch dirt; then once a month, just replace it!
4. Get your can opener into gear!--Stiff can opener? Run a piece of wax paper through the gears. It will loosen dirt and coat the wheels so they'll run smoothly.

The weather's supposed to be gorgeous this weekend, ladies. Get out an enjoy some sunshine! The vitamin D will be good for you! I hope all of you have a blessed weekend and remember I welcome feedback, comments, and suggestions from you. My heart's goal is to minister and encourage women!

Water from the Well---11

2009-04-17T04:08:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "You cannot have a moral holiday and remain moral, nor can you have a spiritual holiday and remain spiritual." Oswald Chambers

Recipe of the Week: Pumpkin Muffins

1 box of Duncan Hines Spice cake mix
1 15 oz. can of pumpkin
either 3 egg whites or 3/4 cup of eggbeaters
optional--can add raisins if desired

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Place cake mix in a bowl and use a hand mixer to break up the lumps in the cake mix. When relatively smooth, add pumpkin and eggs. Blend thoroughly together. Pour batter into muffin tins. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes (according to temperature heat of your oven). Makes 18 muffins.

Did you know? Rubbing lavender oil on insect bites can make the sting go away! It has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce both itching and swelling.

Helpful Hints for Container Gardening: You can have a "garden without a garden" by choosing pots and planters of any size and filling them with your favorite flowers or vegetables. A group of pots can make a portable garden and a grand display! I love flowers and fresh vegetables! For many years--I have not had land for a garden plot---but I didn't let that stop me from having flowers or vegetables. I have been container gardening for years and have had great success. There is nothing like plucking a fresh red tomato out of your own miniature garden. Give container gardening a try---you may surprise yourself!

* Anything that holds soil is a container.
* Be sure to select pots or tubs that give the plants' root systems room for adequate growth and flower production.
*All containers must have drainage holes.
*Use potting soil products made specifically for containers---Lowe's carries it!
*Select flowers/vegetables for pots according to location and amount of sunlight they will receive---Home and garden centers usually have a good selection of sun-loving plants, as well as shade-loving plants.
*Be sure to water container plantings regularly--even daily during heat waves. Container plants dry out quickly.
*Give container plants an extra boost---feed them with some type of plant food at quarter strength every time you water and you will have some happy plants.

Word of the Week: "FERTILE" means to produce plentifully; to be productive; capable of developing or reproducing; fruitful; to be prolific. Several places in Genesis and other places in the Bible--GOD says that we are to be fruitful (or fertile) and multiply. Are you being productive and prolific?

Keep produce from spoiling: Studies show we toss far more produce than anything else and that the biggest culprit is excess moisture. Easy fix? "Don't wash fruits and veggies until you're ready to eat them."
Keep these apart: Fruits and vegetables. Research shows veggies like cucumbers, broccoli and cauliflower stored next to fruits like apples or apricots go bad twice as fast. Fruit produces ethylene gas that stimulates ripening, so keep fruits and vegetables in separate locations.
A recent poll showed that up to half of us aren't aware that tropical fruits like bananas, tomatoes, and oranges go bad faster at cooler temperatures--so keep them on the counter---not in the fridge. Cool-weather fruits, like apples and figs are great in the refrigerator. In fact, apples stored in a crisper in the fridge have a 1000 % longer life span than at room temperature!

DEVO: The Garden--Come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses....

FOR THE GARDEN OF DAILY LIVING, PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS:
1. Peace of mind
2. Peace of heart
3. Peace of soul

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH:
1. Squash gossip
2. Squash indifference
3. Squash grumbling
4. Squash selfishness

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE:
1. Lettuce be faithful
2. Lettuce be kind
3. Lettuce be patient
4. Lettuce really love one another

NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS:
1. Turnip for meetings
2. Turnip for service
3. Turnip to help one another

TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME:
1. Thyme for God
2. Thyme for family
3. Thyme for friends
WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE. THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW.

Well, that's it for another week. I hope you ladies have a great weekend! I'm having some more "dirt therapy", myself! I leave you with this verse: "I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my GOD while I have my being." Psalm 104:33

Water from the Well---10

2009-04-10T04:06:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "We do not remember days, but moments. Life moves too fast, so enjoy your precious moments."

Recipe of the Week: Easter "Snicker Bar" Dessert

1/2 gallon low fat vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup of chunky peanut butter
1 large (12 oz.) container of light cool-whip
1 (small box) of chocolate instant fat-free pudding mix

Slightly soften ice cream. Mix all ingredients together---it will be thick. Put into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Freeze. Cut into squares and enjoy! Makes 16 servings--from WW.com.

Variation: You can put the mixture into graham pie crust if you prefer it in a pie form.

Did you know? According to a recent poll, what moms want most is just a day off from chores and responsibilities!

Helpful Hints: Make spring cleaning easy!

* Make a to-do list--walk through each room in your house and jot down what needs to be done there. It will keep you from being overwhelmed later.

*Setting a timer--Lots of us clean until we drop, then we don't have the energy for later in the day. Set a timer for an hour, then take a break and do something fun or that you enjoy.

*Check your cleaning supplies before you start --Make sure you have enough cleaning products to do spring cleaning and you won't need to interrupt your housework for an extra trip to the store.

*When you start dusting--start high--begin with the highest objects in the room (ex. ceiling fans/ceiling), then wait for the dust from those to settle on the floor before working your way to walls, and furniture, then down to the floors. Check out microfiber cloths or lambswool dusters--they attract and hold dust.

*When cleaning mirrors or glass--use newspapers to wipe off cleaner---it leaves no streaks.

Word of the Week: "PROPITIATION" means to gain or regain the favor of---appease---reconcile----pacify---atone---sacrifice.

1 John 2:2 says-- "And He (Jesus) is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for th sins of the whole world." Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Family First Aid Kit: Every family needs one--Tackle boxes make great first aid kits. Here are a few necessities to add to your family first aid kit:
*assorted sterile bandages
*antiseptic ointment and wipes
*antihistamine for allergic reactions and itching
*pain reliever--like Tylenol
*gauze pads
*adhesive tape
*sharp scissors
*tweezers
*a cold pack
*disposable gloves

Also include in your box the phone # for your pharmacy, poison control, family doctor or pediatrician. Have an index card with any family medical conditions or allergies.

The WORD: The 7-Ups

1. WAKE UP--Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24

2. DRESS-UP--The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7

3. SHUT UP--Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Prov. 13:3

4. STAND UP--For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Gal. 6:9-10.

5. LOOK UP--To the Lord. "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." Phil. 4:13

6. REACH UP--For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Prov. 3:5-6

7. LIFT UP--Your prayers. Talk with God. "Do not worry about anything; instead pray about everything." Phil. 4:6

Happy Easter, ladies! I hope you all have a blessed Easter weekend!

Water from the Well---9

2009-04-03T03:43:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: Style is not what you have, but what you do with what you have.

Recipe of the Week: Cajun Chicken Fettuccine
8 oz. uncooked Fettuccine
1 large onion--sliced
1 medium green pepper-cut into strips
1 medium red pepper-cut into strips
2 Tabl. olive oil
2 cups of cubed cooked chicken
4 tsp. Cajun seasoning
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 jar (17 0z.) Alfredo sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup of spaghetti sauce

Cook fettucine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet saute onion, and peppers in olive oil until tender. Add chicken, cajun seasoning and garlic. Heat through. Transfer to a large bowl. Drain fettucine, add to chicken mixture. Stir in Alfredo and spaghetti sauce. Transfer to a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and cover with foil. Bake on 375 degrees for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake 10-15 minutes longer or until brown on top. Enjoy!

Did you Know? Simply writing down your goals makes you more likely to achieve them!

Helpful Hints: For decorating your Home

1. Always think hospitable, comfortable and cozy.
2. Decorate for your family first.
3. Buy what you love--but avoid paying retail!
4. Work to create a pleasing ambiance.
5. Put something alive in every room.
6. Try to stage a surprise.
7. Don't put out everything you own.

Word of the Week: "Sparkle"-- means to flash; to gleam; to perform brilliantly; to effervesce. Do you have a "sparkly" personality? Are you effervescing? Don't lose your "sparkle" ladies! The world is watching! We need more sparklers for Jesus!

Need a hostess gift? Try one of these.

* A Blooms Basket--filled with a small hand trowel, rake, gardening gloves, seed packets, a straw hat, bulbs, extra-thick hand lotion, and a padded knee rest.

* A Great Greens Basket--filled with fresh produce from your garden or from the grocery store--(think salad fixing or fruit)--plus a favorite family recipe or two and you may want to add in your favorite salad dressing or fruit dip.

The Word: My Princess--You Don't Have to Fit In

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ". Gal. 1 : 10 NIV

I know you want to be accepted by others, but you were not made to fit in. You, my Princess, were created to stand out! Not to draw attention to yourself, but to live the kind of life that leads others to Me. Remember, its your choices that pave your path to life. I will not force you to do anything, I have given you a free will to walk with Me or to walk away from Me. You have a royal call on your life. I want you to remember you wear the crown of everlasting life, and through you I will do abundantly more than you would ever dare to dream.
Love,
Your King & Crown Giver
(Taken from Sheri Rose Shepherd's small devotional book called--"His Princess--Love Letters From Your King". I wanted to give you a little taste of this devotional book. It is not a deep dig in-- kind of devotional--its more of a thought-provoker or when you need a quick reminder from the Lord of who you are. I sure could have used this little book when my children were little and I was changing diapers, wiping runny noses, and certainly not feeling very Princess-like.

Until next week ladies---Spring is in the air! I leave you with thoughts of digging in the dirt this weekend--I've just got to get outside and plant something or at least do some weeding. Does anyone out there relate to what I'm saying? As my daddy used to say to me quite often--You can take the girl out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the girl! So true! My farm-girl upbringing is shouting--It's time to play in the dirt!

Water from the Well---8

2009-03-27T04:11:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "If you've made a habit of communing with God when the sun is shining, you'll find it much easier to sing in the rain". Bill Pannell

Recipe of the Week: Sour Cream Apple Pie (from Fix-It and Enjoy It: 5 Ingredient Recipes) Makes 6-8 servings

1/2 cup of sour cream
1/4 cup of sugar
1 egg
21 oz. can apple pie filling
9" unbaked pie crust

In a small mixing bowl, stir together sour cream, sugar, and egg. Pour into pie crust. Spoon pie filling over sour cream mixture. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until filling is firm an crust is slightly golden on the edges.

*You can substitute cherry, blueberry, or other fruit pie filling for the apple filling if you prefer.

Did You Know? In the 15th century, wedding gowns were green---the color linked to fertility!

Helpful Hints:

1. Sleep on a satin pillow to avoid creases on your face.
2. Look tall and more slender by wearing vertical stripes---thin lines are super slimming!
3. Ensure you never lose another button. When you're sewing on a button with 4 holes, stitch through 2 holes first, and then knot the thread and tie off before you sew through the other 2 holes. If the thread breaks on one side in the future, the button will stay put until you can get home to fix it because the other 2 holes are secure.
4. Do an instant quality check: When you're trying on a blouse or jacket, lift up the arms and take a look at the "stress seams," areas where the clothing will show the most wear. (If you're trying on a skirt, bend at the knees and check the side seams.) If the stitching looks uneven or if you see any loosening or puckering put it back---its likely to rip over time.

Word of the Week: "Delight"--means something that gives you great pleasure, or great satisfaction; to be pleased.
Psalm 37:4 says "Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart's desires." (NLT)

The Word: Do you ever feel overwhelmed?

Right now--I am at "max overload" and it is really weirding me out--because this was to be "my year" to be an L.O.L. (lady of leisure). You see after 22 years of home schooling 4 children--I was "set free" to pursue some of my own interests--or so I thought! It's just not turning out that way---and I've found myself fretting, complaining, and quite overwhelmed at times. I've even asked myself, "When in the world did you have time to home school?" And then in one of my quiet times this week God intervened-- as He always does. I was reading in Psalm 37 and words like "fret not", "Trust in the Lord', Commit thy way unto the Lord", and "Rest in the Lord" pierced my heart like an arrow. I had to stop my quiet time and repent right then and there of all my whining and fretting. And then I began to thank God that He cares so much for me that He will correct me when I'm having one of my female moments! Correction is a good thing! You know, when I think about it---that's one of the things I like most about God---He's so "hands on". He's got a plan for you and me and He's working that plan. So once again, "this lump of clay" jumped back onto the potter's wheel to let Him do some more molding and shaping. It's a great place to be---in the potter's hands! Maybe you've had one of those whinny moments--where you the "clay" tried to take the potter's place--Isaiah 64:8 is a great verse to memorize for that malady--"And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the Potter. We all are formed by your hand." NLT Also, check out Romans 9: 20-21 if you really want to get down to who's in charge! I am so thankful that God loves me enough-- to not let me stay the same---what a loving, patient, forgiving God we serve!

5 More Stress Relievers:

1. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet and an extra house key.
2. Say "NO" to projects that won't fit into your time schedule or that will compromise your mental health--especially if you have small children.
3. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
4. Laugh and laugh some more.
5. Sit on your ego.

Until next week ladies---enjoy the rain---pollen is being washed away--spring is in the air--and God is still on His throne, high and lifted up, and His train fills the temple!

Water from the Well--7

2009-03-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: God loves us the way we are, but He loves us too much to leave us that way. Leighton Ford

Recipe of the Week: Grape Salad (from my sister-in-law, Kelli)

5 lbs. grapes (washed and taken off branches)
1-8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of sugar

Place washed grapes into a bowl. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar. Pour over grapes. Stir to mix well.

Topping:
1 cup of brown sugar
1 cup of chopped pecans

Combine brown sugar and nuts. Pour over the top of grape mixture and chill in the refrigerator. The longer you allow this to chill before serving, the more the flavors actually combine.

DID YOU KNOW? A bagel, in today's standard size of nearly 5 ounces, equals four slices of bread!

Word 0f the Week: "Malleable"--means adaptable, or pliable--capable of being extended or shaped by beating with a hammer or by the pressure of rollers--susceptible of being fashioned into a different form and shape. Are you malleable?

Helpful Hints:
* Chrome and stainless steel will shine if you wipe them down with a cloth dipped in club soda. Dry with a clean cloth.
*Use lemon to clean your copper bottomed pots. Just dip one half of a lemon into salt and rub onto the copper. The acid in the lemon juice cuts through the tarnish, and the salt provides scrubbing power. Rinse and dry.
*Fat-buster--To quickly skim the fat from soups and stews, wrap a few ice cubes in cheesecloth and skim across the top of the dish. The fat will cling to the cloth.
*Mini-measuring tool--Stash a child-size retractable tape measure in your purse for making measurements.

A Mother's Purse Essentials:
*travel-size first aid kit
*Purell hand sanitizer
*a single fabric softener sheet
*stain pen (like Tide to go)
*double sided tape
*sewing kit
*travel size lint brush
*clear fingernail polish

THE WORD: Thirst for God and His Peace (taken from the devotional book called Garden Psalms--God's Gift of Comfort and Abundance.

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. Psalm 42:1

A deer will not stop and drop its head to drink unless it feels perfectly secure. The situation must be quiet and still with no scent of a predator on the wind and no noise in the forest or stream. Only then will the deer drop its guard, expose its neck, and drink refreshing water. Water is vital to the deer in another way besides drinking. When chased, a deer can escape harm only by using a stream or body of water to cover its tracks. A pursued deer looks frantically for water to save its life. Take a moment to reflect on our kinship with the deer as one of God's creatures. The deer's desire for the safety of water is akin to our deep longing for God. God gave us the gift of life, and He will preserve and protect us. We thirst for Him as a deer thirsts for water because without Him we cannot live in peace and security. In Him we are safe. Psalm 23:2-3--"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

5 ways to reduce stress:

1. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
2. Get organized so everything has its place.
3. Talk less; listen more.
4. Do something for the 'kid in you' everyday.
5. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.

I hope you all have a great weekend. I leave you with some words to ponder:

Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Water from the Well--6

2009-03-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week: "Sometimes the best witness is kindness instead of a sermon or forgiveness instead of guilt".

Recipe of the Week: Campbell's Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables (serves 4)

1 can of Cream of mushroom soup (can use 98% fat free if you like)
1/3 cup of water
2 tsp. dried oregano leaves--crushed
2 cups of fresh or frozen baby carrots
4 medium potatoes, cut into quarters
4 bone-in chicken breast
1/2 tsp. paprika

Spray roasting pan with cooking spray. Mix soup, water, 1 tsp. oregano, carrots, and potatoes in a shallow roasting pan. Top with chicken. Season with remaining oregano and paprika.
Bake at 400 degrees for 50 minutes or until chicken and vegetables are done. Stir vegetables. Enjoy!

DID YOU KNOW? Giving has been shown to boost our immunity!

WORD OF THE WEEK: "LAVISH"--it means "bountiful", " to give liberally", "bestowing profusely", "to expend", or "give freely". GOD "lavishes" goodness and mercy and so much more upon us each and every day! Praise His Holy Name!

Helpful Hints:

* Freshen suitcases--Fill your luggage with crumpled newspaper when not in use to absorb odors and keep them smelling great.
* Permanent repair--Got a loose knob that keeps falling off a drawer? Fix it for good by dipping the screw into clear fingernail polish, then screw it back in.
* Tear-free onions--chopping onions? Place a lighted candle nearby. The flame burns the sulfur that gets into the air and makes eyes water.

Needed: Spiritual Blacksmiths

"There were no blacksmiths in the land.' 1 Samuel 13:19

The Bible says, "There were no blacksmiths in the land of Israel in those days. The Philistines wouldn't allow them for fear they would make swords and spears for the Hebrews...none of the people of Israel had a sword or spear, except Saul and Jonathan'. To keep the Israelites in slavery, the Philistines removed all the blacksmiths. It was a devastating blow. Blacksmiths made swords to be used in battle and sickles to be used in the harvest field. Can you imagine the effect that would have on a nation? Satan's tactics haven't changed. His goal is still to silence the moulders and shapers of a new culture; a kingdom culture. Why do we need spiritual blacksmiths? Because they understand how to shape raw material into something God can use. They not only shape it, they sharpen it. All great leaders have emerged from raw material. And tomorrow's leaders are walking around today in raw form just waiting for a spiritual blacksmith to come along. Unfortunately many ministry leaders are so busy 'running the show,' they don't take the time to work with raw material. Spiritual blacksmiths aren't only needed in the local church; they're also needed in the nation to reshape our culture. We need 'influencers' who can reform the ranks of business, education, government, and media. Any volunteers? It's time for the spiritual blacksmiths in the land to break free from the constraints of the Philistines and return to the ancient craft of shaping men and women for God's service. The battle is too big for Saul and Jonathan to handle alone! We need to come off the sidelines and get into the game!!

March is FROZEN FOOD MONTH--Stock your freezer on the cheap! Many grocery stores have mark-downs on frozen food items during this month. Especially check out frozen produce. Most frozen produce is flash-frozen at its peak--and experts say that frozen produce contains more vitamins than pricey fresh veggies, which lose potency on supermarket shelves. I still prefer fresh vegetables---if I know for a fact that it is fresh! But should you need some frozen produce--check with your grocery store and see what they have on sale this month.

I leave you this week with a poem from Helen Steiner Rice called Sweet Blessings.
Wishing God's sweet blessings
Not in droplets but a shower,
To fall on you throughout the day
And brighten every hour.

Happy Birthday: Sheila N., Lara K. and Chris W. (my son-in-law)

Water from the Well--5

2009-03-06T03:54:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Week: "The real value of a thing is the price it will bring in eternity."
John Wesley

Recipe of the Week: Southwestern Ranch Chicken Salad
Makes 4 servings--2 cups each

1/4-1/2 cup of Ranch dressing (1/4 cup--light coating/1/2 cup--drown it)
A dash of ground cumin (I use 2 good shakes from the container)
1 whole wheat tortilla (6 inch) cut in half, then cut into 1/4 inch strips--I use more because I like tortillas.
Shredded iceberg lettuce, green leaf lettuce, and spinach or you can use a 10 oz. bag of mixed salad greens
1 pkg. (6 oz.) Oscar Meyer Southwestern Seasoned chicken breast strips
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup of either shredded mozzarella cheese or 4 cheese Mexican style cheese

Mix dressing and cumin; set aside. Place tortilla strips onto a microwave plate sprayed with cooking spray. Microwave on High for 1 minute; set aside. Toss shredded greens with chicken and tomatoes in either a large salad bowl or you can toss it in individual salad plates. Top with cheese and dressing mixture. Mix lightly. Top with tortilla strips. Every one in my family loves this recipe--except Jeremy--the meat and potato man!

DID YOU KNOW? Pink became associated with girls because of an old English legend that female babies were born inside pink flowers. Strange isn't it?

HELPFUL HINTS:

* Wrinkle trick for cotton clothes---Throw a "damp" towel in the dryer 5 minutes before the load is done an cotton clothes come out less wrinkled.

*Smudge-free fridge--Use car wax to buff your refrigerator. It will stay super shiny and repel fingerprints, smudges, and dirt.

*Put a "lazy susan" in your refrigerator to keep condiments and jarred foods within easy reach.

*Buying new sunglasses: Check out these lens colors
Gray lens: recommended for cycling or running
Green lens: recommended for driving
Amber lens: provides contrast on bright days
Brown lens: perfect for hazy days or when there's glare
Yellow lens: Best for overcast days

"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised." Proverbs 31:30

A woman is truly beautiful when she's comfortable with who she is and she appreciates how God made her. A truly beautiful woman isn't looking for her identity or significance from anywhere else but God. She's not comparing herself to magazine covers or striving to be more physically beautiful by the world's standard. She's not looking for a guy to tell her whether or not she's worthy of pursuing. She looks to God for those things and believes what He says about her. A truly beautiful woman invites other women and other people to be who God made them to be as well. You will never hear a beautiful woman of God say, "We don't know what to do with her." She will embrace those that are gifted differently than herself and love them just like Jesus would. How do beautiful women become some lovely? They let God make them more beautiful. As we spend time getting to know God, he works on our souls. And the work he does on our souls shows up not only in our outward physical appearance, but also in our whole being. It you want to be truly beautiful, spend time getting to know God. Read His word, make your relationship with Him the most important relationship in your life. The work He does on the inside of you will show up on the outside.

WORD OF THE WEEK: I'm a "word" nerd! I know--weird! I like interesting words!
This week's word of the week is "ENTHRALLED"--it means to hold spellbound. Here's an interesting verse for you to ponder--"The Lord is enthralled by your beauty; honor Him, for He is your Lord." Psalm 45:11 NIV---Wow! Now that's a supernatural thought!

CHECK THESE OUT: I love devotional books! I love books---PERIOD! I found a new devotional book at the Lamb's Well called His Princess Bride--Love Letters from Your Prince by Sheri Rose Shepherd. This book touches my heart every day---maybe because one of my nicknames is "Princess"--regardless--- just in case you needed a message from your Prince--Jesus-- you might want to check it out.

My favorite cookbooks are the Fix It an Forget It series of cookbooks. I just added a new one to my ever-growing collection called Fix It and Enjoy It--5 Ingredient recipes for the stove and oven. Walmart carries it if you're interested!

And just for your information: I think all of you ladies are beautiful! Hope you have a glorious "beautiful" weekend--weather is supposed to be great---don't forget the time changes this weekend, also! Until next Friday!

Water from the Well--4

2009-02-27T03:46:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Week: Every moment of every day you choose your attitude!

Recipe of the Week: Easy Spaghetti Casserole

1- lb. hamburger meat (I use the leanest)
1- large jar of spaghetti sauce (Ragu, Prego, or your favorite)
1- can of cream of mushroom soup
enough cooked spaghetti to cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish( I usually use about half of a large box of spaghetti)
grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese
opt. grated onions and mushrooms

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook spaghetti and place in a well- greased casserole dish. Brown hamburger meat (add opt. onions and mushrooms to meat mixture). When onions are transparent; add spaghetti sauce to meat mixture and mix well. Place hamburger/sauce mixture over the spaghetti. Whisk the cream of mushroom soup in a bowl and then pour it over the meat mixture and spread evenly. Place the grated cheddar cheese over the mushroom soup and then add the mozzarella on top of the cheddar. Place in a hot oven and cook until the cheese bubbles on top. Add a salad and breadsticks for a complete meal.

Did you know? Babies and toddlers learn more when they spend some time with grandparents!

Helpful Hints: For you garage sale buyers--buying second hand sofas and chairs
1. Lift It--Is it unexpectedly heavy? That's a great sign--it means it has a good hardwood frame built to last!
2. Feel the deck--Lift off the cushions and push on the springs--round and springy? Good! Flat zig-zag shapes---Pass it up!
3. Have a seat--Lean on the arms and back to test for firmness and comfort; if you like what you feel, you've got a winner!

IT'S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE

When it comes to "everyday life", few things are as indispensable as a positive attitude. Now, I'm not talking about "positive thinking" here or the proverbial--"I think I can, I think I can" attitude. I'm talking about viewing your "everyday life stuff" (like cleaning the toilet your husband uses--with joy in your heart). Why? Because of Colossians 3:23--"And whatsoever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." Our attitude impacts how we view life's circumstances and how we navigate our personal relationships. Our attitude toward circumstances has a significant influence on our response. Proverbs 23:7 states it this way, "For as he thinks within himself, so he is." It's estimated that 60,000 thoughts run through our minds every day, and we choose whether those thoughts are positive or negative. In his book, Awake, My Heart, J. Sidlow Baxter wrote, "What is the difference between an obstacle and an opportunity? Our attitude toward it! Every opportunity has a difficulty and every difficulty has an opportunity." The Israelite army was paralyzed when they looked at the giant Goliath through human eyes. David, however, looked at the giant through the grid of God's power, and he saw a great big target! The best way to develop a positive attitude is to feed on God's word daily. Filling your mind with truth will cultivate both a grateful heart and a giving heart. As we give thanks to God and give of our energy to others, the result is a major attitude adjustment. Here's something to ponder---"We can't choose "what" we will go through in life, but we can choose "how" we will go through it."

Pamper Time: Energizing grapefruit foot scrub

Squeeze 1 grapefruit into a large bowl with 1 1/2 cups of white sugar and 1/2 cup of sea salt. Thoroughly massage mixture into feet. Take your time with this step. Rinse and pat dry. This is done best in the shower. Your feet will thank you for it!

Helpful Hints:

*Plastic containers stained with tomato sauce--rub the red away with a paste of lemon juice and baking soda. Spray plastic containers with non-stick spray before storing red sauces for easy clean-up.

* For wrinkle-free pants--always hang pants from the cuffs, rather than the waist.

Check out this website: Kraftfoods.com

Until next week ladies--remember to be a blessing to someone this weekend---even if it's raining!

Water from the Well---3

2009-02-20T04:55:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Week: Worry is like a rocking chair. It keeps you busy, but you never go anywhere.

Recipe of the Week: Paula Deen's Ultimate Pull-Apart Coffee Cake (makes 6-8 servings)
16-18 unbaked frozen dinner rolls
1 pkg. (3oz.) regular butterscotch pudding mix--not instant
1/2 cup brown sugar--packed
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup melted butter

The night before, place frozen rolls in a well-greased Bundt pan. Sprinkle dry pudding mix over rolls. Sprinkle brown sugar over pudding mix. Sprinkle pecans over sugar. Pour melted butter over all. Cover with a damp towel or tightly with plastic wrap. Let rise overnight at room temperature (8-10 hours). Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Uncover; bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove; cool for 5 minutes. Invert pan onto serving platter. Serve by pulling apart with forks.

I made this for my family for Valentine's Day and they loved it---I also made it for the ladies in my SS class last Sunday---Big hit with them also!

Did you know? Most women and children prefer creamy peanut butter, while most men opt for chunky.

The Fruit and Veggie Calendar: This is when the fruits and vegetables are generally in season and taste the best and are the cheapest to buy.

Jan.--lemons--tangerines Feb.--Broccoli--grapefruits Mar.--cabbages, carrots, cauliflower Apr.--artichokes--asperagus--mushrooms May--Vidalia onions--English peas Jun--Vidalia onions--apricots--blackberries--limes July--corn--red onions--squash--peaches--melons--pears Aug.--green beans--corn--cucumbers--squash--melons--pears Sept.--cucumbers--eggplants--peppers--tomatoes--grapes Oct.--pumpkins--winter squash--pomegranates--apples Nov.--sweet potatoes--Bosc pears--cranberries Dec.--sweet potatoes--dates--turnips--Cornice pears

Houseplants: 4 plants that purify the air
1. Boston Fern
2. Bamboo palm
3. Rubber Plant
4. English Ivy

Helpful Hint: Get an even haircut every time!

Don't you hate it when you come home after a haircut appointment and suddenly you notice that your haircut is uneven? There's actually an easy way to prevent this beauty blunder: Sit up straight and don't cross your legs! When you slouch or cross your legs, your head tilts. But if you sit up straight with both feet on the ground, your head will be straight and your cut even.

Minister As You Go: John 13:34-35

I used to hate to go grocery shopping---it was so bad that I would actually time myself to see how quickly I could get out of there---and then on my next shopping trip I would try to beat my previous time--weird I know---until one day I was preparing to teach a Bible study lesson about "ministering as you go." I was all excited about the lesson because God's Word is so rich and powerful! As I was pondering, preparing, and praying about ways to "minister as you go" in our daily lives---God brought a "ministry place" to my mind---the grocery store. Now as you can well imagine---I began to squirm a little---because I looked at grocery shopping kind of like a NASCAR race---speed around the track as fast as possible. In my mind it was all about the checkered flag (getting home)! And then God began to play back missed opportunities in my mind--when I could have ministered, but didn't because I was at full throttle! And then I saw it--I understood---the grocery store was a new place that I could shine for Jesus!
So, here's how I do grocery shopping now---I always pray before I go and I ask God to bring someone to me that I can minister to while I'm at the grocery store---and you know what? Every time I go God brings me someone to minister to---its just incredible! A couple of weeks ago--I got to minister to a fellow church member (male) that was lost as a goose in the canned food aisle. One week I helped an elderly man get his grocery list done--he had never been grocery shopping in his life and his wife had just got out of the hospital. Now I ask you---had I been zooming around the grocery store at max speed in my beautiful metallic race "cart"----would I have received these blessings of ministering? I don't think so! Minister as you go---it will be a blessing to you!

Recession Buster: Buy in the afternoon---The best time to snag a discount is after 1 p.m. That's when most meat departments mark down merchandise for a quick sale that day--you can sometimes find deals 50% or more off---so check it out!

Talk to you next week ladies---and don't forget to be a blessing to someone this weekend!

Water from the Well---2

2009-02-13T03:48:00.000-08:00

Thought of the Week: It does not matter what you can do. It matters what you will do!

Recipe of Week: Crock Pot Chicken Strogonoff

1 -lb. chicken breast (frozen) I usually use 4 or 5 breast
1 can fat free cream of mushroom soup
16 oz. low fat sour cream
1 pkg. onion soup mix
water or chicken broth if needed

Spray crock pot with cooking spray. Place frozen chicken breast on the bottom of the crock pot. Mix other ingredients together and pour over the chicken. Cook on low for 5-6 hours. I usually check the chicken after two hours to see if there is still enough liquid in the pot and add either water or chicken broth at that time. I happen to like a lot of gravy. Stir well before serving. Serve over rice or noodles. Add some steamed broccoli or green beans and you've got a meal.

God Sightings: Have you had any today? What are God sightings?

1.) Answered prayers
2.) Provided help when needed
3.) Unexpected care and guidance
4.) Unusual timing that worked for your good

Start looking for evidence of God in your life! It does wonders for your faith!

Did you know? Regular exercise can reduce breast cancer risk by more than 25%!

Cultivate a Thankful Heart!

In Psalm 34:1--David said, "I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth." A thankful heart should be a way of life for us. Nothing demonstrates trust, like thanking God when you're in the throes of crisis. A thankful heart does two things: 1.) It builds your faith---when you focus on GOD instead of the problem, God becomes bigger and the problem becomes smaller. Plus,...'faith cometh by hearing....the Word of GOD (Rom. 10:17). Hearing GOD'S promises coming from your lips, causes faith to rise in your heart. 2.) It restores life. Before raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus looked up to heaven and said,...."Father....thank you that You have heard Me. And I know that you always hear Me"....' (John 11:41-42). Something wonderful happens when you start thanking GOD for saving, protecting, and providing for you. Your faith soars. You gain confidence to command those things in your life that you thought were dead, to live again. So-----....'magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt His name together' (Psalm 34:3)

Household Hints

1.) Streak-free shine--Rub a clean unused blackboard eraser over freshly washed and dried windows to buff away any remaining streaks.
2.) Freshen your car--Sprinkle baking soda onto your cars floor and fabric; let stand for 15 minutes to absorb odors. Vacuum.
3.) Cleaner clothing--Make your detergent work better by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to the wash.

THINK ABOUT IT: At the root of excessive spending, you will generally find attitudes---such as greed, laziness, self-indulgence, a sense of entitlement, or impatience. Something to think about in these hard economic times we live in.

What a privilege to write to you ladies each week. I hope all of you have a great weekend and remember that GOD loves you with an everlasting love! No amount of chocolate or roses can beat that!

2009-02-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

Recipe of the Week: Baked Oatmeal

This recipe came to me from a dear sweet friend--Darleen Creath, and I have used it for years--my whole family loves it--here's the interesting thing--I never really like oatmeal--to me it taste like cardboard--not that I have ever tasted cardboard--mind you--I think you know what I mean--this oatmeal recipe is delicious. I hope you try it and enjoy it!

3 cups old fashioned oatmeal
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 cup of honey (my favorite is Tupelo)
2 Tabl. oil
1 1/2 cups of buttermilk
2 eggs
1 cup of fruit of your choice (I really like peaches and pears, but you can use blueberries also)
cinnamon to sprinkle on top
whipping cream or half and half

Mix dry ingredients. Mix wet ingredients. Stir them together. Put in a well greased baking dish. Sprinkle entire top with cinnamon. Bake for 30 minutes on 350 degrees. Because oven temperatures vary--I would check the bottom of the casserole dish after 20 minutes to check for brownness. You really do not want to over bake. When it is finished baking, dish it into bowls an top with whipping cream or half and half. Delicious!

A great online website for recipes is www.recipegoldmine.com

Quote of the Day: Whether you think you can, or you think you can't---you're right!

Stay Teachable

Proverbs 18:15-- 'Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insight'

To stay teachable there are two things you need to understand: 1. Nothing is interesting if you are not interested. 2. Successful people view learning differently than those who are unsuccessful. Sidney J. Harris wrote: "A winner knows how much he still has to learn, even when he is considered and expert by others. A loser wants to be considered an expert by others, before he has learned enough to know how little he knows."

It's all a matter of attitude----so stay teachable!

Cute Gift Idea: Give A Cup of Friendship

Buy a coffee mug or tea cup that your friend would like and fill it with a selection of little things that reflect your friend's interest. Tie a ribbon around the handle and you have a wonderful gift.
Here are some possibilities: For a gardener--a trio of herb teabags, biscotti, miniature Book of Blessings, a little notebook, and some mini-gardening tools/ For someone whose life is on the hectic side--herbal tea, pampering bath products, and a CD of calming music/ For a teacher--hot chocolate mix, shortbreads, a miniature book called Teacher, three markers, and a pencil with an apple-shaped eraser. I think you get the idea.

By the way----Did you know? A hundred years ago, coffee was delivered door-to-door just like milk!

Until next Friday---Have a blessed weekend!