Police State: As noted last week, the TSA has officially announced it will move its hands-down-your-pants operation from the nation's airports to bus stations, mass transit hubs and beyond .
DHS boss Napolitano has said the DHS plans to be entrench its Gestapo apparatus at the local mall . By Christmas of 2012, the TSA and its heavily armed VIPR good squads may be forcing citizens through deadly porno scanners at the mall.
Expanding roadside checkpoints - collaborative efforts between local cops, the feds, and the military - with deadly radiation scanners will also become normalized features of the American police state. 2012 may also be the year surveillance drones become a routine sight in the skies over many cities... Click the link below for the full article.
http://www.infowars.com/newsletter/insider122811/
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
CHRISTMAS BREAK
Salt & Light is on Christmas break until after New Year's Day. I will pass on any news worthy items from other sources, but won't be posting anything written by me. God Bless all my readers and Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.
Danelle
Danelle
Monday, December 19, 2011
A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS PAST
Yesterday I spent seven hours making Christmas cookies. With a little help from my daughter and her friend, we created dozens of Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip, Michigan Rocks and cutout Sugar cookies. My favorite is the Michigan Rocks. You have to love raisins, dates and walnuts to appreciate this cookie, which for me has just as much sentimental value as it does taste. My grandmother passed down this recipe and it just doesn't seem like Christmas until I bite into a Michigan Rock.
Nana, my grandma, never used a mixer to create these sweet fruity gems. She always got into the bowl with her hands to mix the dough. I can still see her fingers in that bowl, all full of sticky brown cookie dough. When the dough was mixed, she'd again use her hands to scrape the excess from her palms and each finger. Nana had a grinder that she attached to her counter top for grinding the raisins and dates. I loved turning the handle and watching the gooey clump of fruit come out in one continuous thick strand.
Nana threw walnuts straight from the tree into the driveway so people would drive over them and crack the shells. I didn't have a nutcracker either this year, so I used a hammer. What a mess! This cookie is a lot of work, but I think it's worth it. It's a treat that holds many memories for me. Both my grandma and my mom made these cookies every Christmas. The smell and taste of them brings back my childhood.
Not everyone in our family appreciates Michigan Rocks. My sister in law doesn't understand what's so great about them. Every year she shakes her head when we fuss over our special family cookie. Recently, I discovered that my son is not a fan of Michigan Rocks either. On his last visit, I told him that I was planning to make our traditional family-loved cookie. Kody is known for his clever comebacks. Without cracking a smile he said, "Those cookies should have stayed in Michigan."
Love em or hate em, here's the recipe:
MICHIGAN ROCKS
Please note that my Grandma's original recipe calls for 1 Cup of Butter and Lard (1/2 Cup of each). I'm not a fan of Lard or Crisco, so I use all butter. Also, her original recipe says to put the baking soda in a little hot water, which is the 2-4 Tablespoons of water I add last. Also, I use 1 Cup of packed brown sugar instead of the 2 Cups called for in her original recipe.
2 Cups Brown Sugar
1 Cup Butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 1/2 Cups Flour
1 Cup walnuts chopped
1 Cup Ground Raisins (measure raisins and dates after they've been ground in a grinder)
1 Cup Ground Dates
2 eggs
2-4 Tablespoons Warm Water
Combine Flour with baking soda and cinnamon and mix well. In separate bowl, Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs. Add a cup of the flour and then add the ground raisins and dates. Add the rest of the flour and then add water (a Tablespoon at a time) until the dough is moist but very stiff. (2-4 Tablespoons). Bake at 350 for 10-13 minutes. Do not under bake. Bottom should be brown.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
PUT ON THE FULL ARMOR
If God allowed His Son Jesus to be tempted direct by the devil himself during His temptation test in the wilderness, then you can bet your bottom dollar that most of us will probably have to face some kind of demonic attack from time to time in this life. That is why there is such an emphasis in the Bible that we learn how to become “good soldiers” of Jesus Christ, that we learn how to put on the “full armor of God,” and that we learn how to be vigilant, sober, and alert for any types of attacks that can come at us from the enemy. http://www.bible-knowledge.com/phophetic-word-on-becoming-soldier/
A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
A prophecy is a direct Word from the Lord and it is the greatest of the 9 gifts of the Holy Spirit. God has gifted certain people to receive a direct word from Him which serves as a warning or as encouragement to others.
http://www.bible-knowledge.com/prophecy-deborah-paget/
http://www.bible-knowledge.com/prophecy-deborah-paget/
Friday, December 16, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN...
Here's the latest blog I want to share. At first I thought this girl was too flashy to be taken seriously. But then I read some of her blog entries. She's a beautiful girl, but she's also real. She admits her faults and she has a concern for others. Life is not all about her. I especially love this blog about her decision to part with her wedding dress. How often do we get caught up in the luxuries of the world and forget about the difference we could be making in the lives of others. She's inspired me to do something for someone in need. Take some time to explore this blog. She's a photographer, so you'll see some beautiful photos.
PS. Jennifer told me today through email that the dress is still available. Several people were interested, but their interest fell through. It is a beautiful dress for someone very petite. Spread the word!
http://theblairaffairs.blogspot.com/2011/01/to-whom-much-is-given.html
PS. Jennifer told me today through email that the dress is still available. Several people were interested, but their interest fell through. It is a beautiful dress for someone very petite. Spread the word!
http://theblairaffairs.blogspot.com/2011/01/to-whom-much-is-given.html
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
A WIFE HE'LL CHERISH
Here's a valuable post from the blog Our Simple Country Life. I'm guilty, too, of not encouraging my husband enough and of sometimes dwelling on his faults rather than his good points. Christmas is a good time to make more of an effort to love your husband. Here are some very good suggestions.
http://www.oursimplecountrylife.com/2011/08/titus-2-series-loving-your-husband.html
http://www.oursimplecountrylife.com/2011/08/titus-2-series-loving-your-husband.html
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
Preppers Are Now Considered To Be Potential Terrorists?
When the "war on terror" started a decade ago, we were told that we needed to fight the terrorists "over there" so that they would not come over here.
Well, now we are being told that the United States itself is part of the "battleground" and that the "terrorists" might just be our neighbors.
We are being told that if we "see something" that we should "say something" to the government.
In essence, the federal government wants us all to "inform" on one another.
Now that most of the big name terrorists have been removed from the picture, the Obama administration and the mainstream media are really hyping the idea that "homegrown terrorism" is a grave danger.
Just check out these headlines from the past few days....
ABC News: "White House Unveils New Strategy to Fight Homegrown Terrorism"
USA Today: "White House unveils new strategy to combat homegrown terror"
CNN: "Measuring the homegrown terrorist threat to U.S. military"
The entire focus of the "war on terror" has shifted. According to FBI Director Robert Mueller, "homegrown terrorists" represent as big a threat to American national security as al-Qaeda does at this point.
America is rapidly changing, and not for the better.
Preppers Are Now Considered To Be Potential Terrorists?
Well, now we are being told that the United States itself is part of the "battleground" and that the "terrorists" might just be our neighbors.
We are being told that if we "see something" that we should "say something" to the government.
In essence, the federal government wants us all to "inform" on one another.
Now that most of the big name terrorists have been removed from the picture, the Obama administration and the mainstream media are really hyping the idea that "homegrown terrorism" is a grave danger.
Just check out these headlines from the past few days....
ABC News: "White House Unveils New Strategy to Fight Homegrown Terrorism"
USA Today: "White House unveils new strategy to combat homegrown terror"
CNN: "Measuring the homegrown terrorist threat to U.S. military"
The entire focus of the "war on terror" has shifted. According to FBI Director Robert Mueller, "homegrown terrorists" represent as big a threat to American national security as al-Qaeda does at this point.
America is rapidly changing, and not for the better.
Preppers Are Now Considered To Be Potential Terrorists?
Thursday, December 8, 2011
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON
Too many people overlook the natural cures available to them. As soon as they have a problem they run to the drug store or to the doctor for a prescription. I've used some of the remedies mentioned below and I can attest that they work. Take some time to learn the cures provided by nature, provided by God.
(I would be careful about the dosage of colloidal silver. This site doesn't specify how many parts per million. We use 500ppm colloidal silver and never take more than 1/2 teaspoon per day. A child's dose is usually 1/4 teaspoon)
http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/natural-living/natural-remedies-for-cold-flu-season/
(I would be careful about the dosage of colloidal silver. This site doesn't specify how many parts per million. We use 500ppm colloidal silver and never take more than 1/2 teaspoon per day. A child's dose is usually 1/4 teaspoon)
http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/natural-living/natural-remedies-for-cold-flu-season/
Ideas for Holiday Baking
Peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate and the original recipe for Fantasy Fudge that was on the back of jars of marshmallow creme. These recipes sound yummy. The only thing I would change is swapping real butter for margarine. Margarine is too synthetic, fake and artery clogging. Plus it doesn't melt in the sun, so what exactly is it? Maybe a form of plastic? At least butter is natural.
http://www.raisingarrows.net/2011/12/holiday-baking/
http://www.raisingarrows.net/2011/12/holiday-baking/
Domestic Felicity: Is this me?
Domestic Felicity: Is this me?: It's very early in the morning, and I'm finding it difficult to unglue my eyes. Little children are already whining, clamoring for breakfast...
Americans as Military Targets
The Founding Fathers had a good reason to put limits on the federal government. They had just come from a land ruled by kings who saw liberty as a vice. The framers knew that if you removed the restriction on the government, it would grow like a cancer. Washington has become one giant tumor with one main purpose: to grab more power.
http://www.raptureready.com/rap16.html
http://www.raptureready.com/rap16.html
Sunday, December 4, 2011
FORT HUNTER VICTORIAN TEA
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| The tea room at Fort Hunter Mansion |
Each year at Fort Hunter Mansion, the public is invited to a Victorian tea around Christmas time. Many times I thought of attending this event because it sounded like such fun. Today I finally went and I wasn't disappointed. Fort Hunter is located along the Susquehanna River north of Harrisburg and it offers visitors a glimpse of 19th century Pennsylvania life. The photo above is the tea room where guests were invited to feast on tea sandwiches and cookies with a warm cup of orange spice tea. Notice the Victorian style dresses worn by the servers. Candles added to the table's inviting warmth. And not a paper plate or cup was in sight. We ate on the good china and tea was served on a plate of silver, poured from silver teapots.
After tea, we enjoyed a tour of the mansion then walked down to the Tavern House where a Festival of Trees were on display. Area garden clubs decorate the trees each year and then they are raffled in a drawing for lucky winners to take home, decorations and lights included. The tastiest part of the day was the Open Hearth Cooking demonstration (pictured below) where we received a sample of roasted butternut squash with apples and raisins. It was delicious.
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| Flour was used sparingly during the civil war. It sold for $500 a barrel. |
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| The Tavern House and the oldest tree on the property. |
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| My second favorite tree. |
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| The Dolls and Teacups tree |
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| This tree, decorated by the Halifax Garden Club was my favorite |
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| Ladies hats, gloves, purses and handmade roses adorned my favorite tree. |
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| Men opening doors for ladies is a rare and wonderful thing. |
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| Inside the Fort Hunter Mansion |
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| A lady of the house greeted us inside the door. |
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| A cozy corner of the Family Room |
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| The children's bedroom |
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| This baby carriage made many trips through downtown Harrisburg |
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| A second floor window overlooking the Susquehanna River |
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| A closet full of vintage hats, shoes, and accessories |
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| An upstairs bedroom |
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| Musicians filled the mansion with enchanting music |
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| One last look at the mansion before I go. |
Saturday, December 3, 2011
US Constitution repealed by traitorous Senators; 'Republican party now the Gestapo party' says observer
"The mainstream media doesn't want you to know about this story even though it is arguably the single most important story of the year in terms of impacting your future as a free citizen. Yesterday as part of the National Defense Authorization Act, the U.S. Senate voted to repeal the Constitution and its Bill of Rights by authorizing the U.S. military to operate on U.S. soil, conduct secret kidnappings of American citizens and throw them in secret military prisons where they will be "legally" tortured, interrogated and murdered."
Friday, December 2, 2011
CONTROLLED CHAOS
"We are already a border line fascist state as government has teamed up with industry, which is what Fascism is. Fannie & Freddie, the banks, the auto industry, our educational system and with Obama’s Health Care in the wings, it is easy to see that BIG government is usurping more and more of our rights and liberties every day... This is more like Hitler’s Germany than the United States of America. " - LA Marzulli
http://lamarzulli.wordpress.com/2011/11/30/out-of-chaos-the-new-world-order/
http://lamarzulli.wordpress.com/2011/11/30/out-of-chaos-the-new-world-order/
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
LIFE SLAPPED AND SAID GROW UP
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| My daughter, whom I hope will learn from my mistakes |
For all you aspiring writers out there, Ladies Home Journal is holding an essay contest that could make you $3,000 richer. This is what I've been wracking my brain over for the past several months. I have to write about my own personal growth, you know the things I've learned in the past 40 plus years. (Next year I won't be able to say that because I will be 50).
So I guess one thing I've learned is that age isn't so important. Even though I live in a culture that worships youth, I can be honest about my age. Even though my chin and neck are starting to do that middle age thing and I've started wearing glasses to cover saggy eyelids, I still have much to offer the world. There's more to life than tight skin.
In fact, getting older almost comes as a relief. In my younger days I put a lot of pressure on myself to look great all the time. It's nice to let go of some of that. I still want to look like I care, but skinny is no longer in my vocabulary, and I'm trying to let go of all that "every hair in place" obsession with perfection that can drive a girl crazy.
I really think we need to get over all this hoopla about our looks. People are more than an outer shell. But getting to know the inside takes time and effort. Isn't it so much easier to glance at the shell and decide from there who's worthy. Easier and much more shallow. I've learned to look deeper than skin. And I've learned not to spend time with people who can't do that.
Something else I've learned is how insane it is to always be wanting more stuff. Americans are obsessed with stuff. They trade their peace for everything they desire before they have the money to pay for it and then spend sleepless nights worrying about their ever increasing debt. I've watched friends blow an entire paycheck just to have the latest ultra-cool handbag. They'd spend two weeks pay on a designer bag that only serves to impress people they don't know or care about. A month later that same handbag will be available at Goodwill for five bucks. If I cared about impressing people I don't know or care about, I'd be tempted to buy it.
I thank God for all the things I've learned. One of my hardest lessons was realizing that life is not all about me. People weren't put on this earth to make me happy. In fact I shouldn't expect anyone to make me happy. It seems I spent much of my life being mad at people for letting me down. I was always waiting for the next big disappointment so I could shoot my mouth off about how much that person hurt me. Honestly, I don't know how some people could tolerate my company in my younger days. I seemed to be in a perpetual state of anger, hurt, and disappointment. I wish someone would have slapped me and told me to grow up.
But I guess life did slap me many times and that's what brought me to my senses. I wouldn't trade any of those hurts because the pain is what made me grow up. You can only whine for so long before realizing that the common denominator is you...
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
A note from Danelle
I'm taking a blogging break until after Thanksgiving. Hope you have an enjoyable Holiday. I can't believe this time of year has arrived once again. The Christmas shows are running on Hallmark! Why do they rush things? It's like the year I put up my Christmas tree before Thanksgiving. Everyone had a comment for that. But I'm not rushing this year. I don't have to do everything right now. Some things can wait. I'll do the important things. And when I feel that God is getting shoved aside, I'll step away from the things I don't have to do. Because nothing works without Him. And I just don't feel right when I've set Him on a shelf.
Danelle
Danelle
Saturday, November 12, 2011
CRAZY IMPULSIVE DESIRES OF THE HEART
When I first heard this song on the radio, I loved, loved, loved it. I bought the CD and wore it out. So I bought another one. Then late one night I decided to see where this group was performing. On a whim I bought three tickets online to a concert in Philadelphia. I had no idea who was going to go along or how I was going to get there because I hate driving in big cities, especially Philly. What was I thinking?
I guess God decided to bless my slightly crazy, impulsive decision because I found a friend to go along with me and guess what? She knew her way around Philadelphia because she had been driving her daughter there to pursue a modeling career. I hoped that I could sell that third ticket when I got there.
We drove right to the concert site without a problem, parked the car and walked to the cutest little diner. I found the restaurant online and knew it was within walking distance of the concert. It was exciting to be in an unfamiliar place so full of activity. We arrived early for the concert and only one person was standing in line. "Do you have any tickets?" he asked. I shook my head in amazement. Could this night be any more perfect? I sold him that third ticket that I bought on a whim for the amount I paid for it. Now all we had to do was wait.
My only regret for the evening was the place I chose to stand for the concert. I insisted we go up on the balcony while my friend suggested we grab a spot in front of the stage. We could have been in the front row with the best view in the house. Instead we had a bird's eye view of the stage and watched the tops of their heads instead of their faces. Oh well, I guess you can't have everything.
What I learned from that adventure is that sometimes God blesses our crazy, impulsive whims...not always, but sometimes. There's something to be said for planning and playing it safe, but taking a chance certainly has its charms. I bought three tickets to a concert in a city I dreaded driving to. But God knew how much I loved that song. When we delight ourselves in the Lord, he gives us the desires of our hearts. He paves the way for our heart's desires. Click on the link below to hear the song I'm talking about.
http://youtu.be/gaHwzkk6tOQ
I guess God decided to bless my slightly crazy, impulsive decision because I found a friend to go along with me and guess what? She knew her way around Philadelphia because she had been driving her daughter there to pursue a modeling career. I hoped that I could sell that third ticket when I got there.
We drove right to the concert site without a problem, parked the car and walked to the cutest little diner. I found the restaurant online and knew it was within walking distance of the concert. It was exciting to be in an unfamiliar place so full of activity. We arrived early for the concert and only one person was standing in line. "Do you have any tickets?" he asked. I shook my head in amazement. Could this night be any more perfect? I sold him that third ticket that I bought on a whim for the amount I paid for it. Now all we had to do was wait.
My only regret for the evening was the place I chose to stand for the concert. I insisted we go up on the balcony while my friend suggested we grab a spot in front of the stage. We could have been in the front row with the best view in the house. Instead we had a bird's eye view of the stage and watched the tops of their heads instead of their faces. Oh well, I guess you can't have everything.
What I learned from that adventure is that sometimes God blesses our crazy, impulsive whims...not always, but sometimes. There's something to be said for planning and playing it safe, but taking a chance certainly has its charms. I bought three tickets to a concert in a city I dreaded driving to. But God knew how much I loved that song. When we delight ourselves in the Lord, he gives us the desires of our hearts. He paves the way for our heart's desires. Click on the link below to hear the song I'm talking about.
http://youtu.be/gaHwzkk6tOQ
BROTHER, MAY I ?
A couple summers ago I stopped at a child's lemonade stand and bought a drink. I didn't know how the lemonade was made, I didn't know what they put in the lemonade, nor did I ask. I just saw the sweet face of the kid behind the stand and assumed that the lemonade was not going to kill me. What a chance I took!. I might have died.
Thank Goodness Big Brother has stepped in to save the day. I will never again see a sweet- faced child sitting behind a lemonade stand and be able to bring a smile to that kid's face by buying a cup. Don't you just love what this country is turning into?
http://www.infowars.com/is-there-anything-we-are-still-free-to-do-without-government-permission/
Thank Goodness Big Brother has stepped in to save the day. I will never again see a sweet- faced child sitting behind a lemonade stand and be able to bring a smile to that kid's face by buying a cup. Don't you just love what this country is turning into?
http://www.infowars.com/is-there-anything-we-are-still-free-to-do-without-government-permission/
Friday, November 11, 2011
DON'T MISS THIS MOVIE: COURAGEOUS
This past weekend I saw the movie Courageous. Cried like a baby for two hours straight. I mean the tears wouldn't stop. Toward the end, I was going back to my already-used tissues looking for dry spots. Next time I'll stuff a whole box in my handbag. This movie is so incredibly moving, so well done, so meaningful for our time. If you haven't seen it, you are missing something. And if you're a father you have to see it.
The first link below is a wonderful blog I discovered today after deciding that I wanted to give Courageous a big thumbs up on my blog. I didn't come across Bits and Pieces by accident. I was led to share it with you because I pray for such things. I pray to be led to fabulous blogs and websites that I can share. Check it out. The second link is the official website for the movie Courageous.
http://avoiceofpraise.blogspot.com/2011/10/we-were-made-to-be-courageous.html
http://www.courageousthemovie.com/
The first link below is a wonderful blog I discovered today after deciding that I wanted to give Courageous a big thumbs up on my blog. I didn't come across Bits and Pieces by accident. I was led to share it with you because I pray for such things. I pray to be led to fabulous blogs and websites that I can share. Check it out. The second link is the official website for the movie Courageous.
http://avoiceofpraise.blogspot.com/2011/10/we-were-made-to-be-courageous.html
http://www.courageousthemovie.com/
HAVING A BAD DAY?
We all have bad days. Sometimes knowing we're not alone helps. Click on the link below.
| http://snatchedfromthewind.blogspot.com/2011/11/so-very-restless.html |
Monday, November 7, 2011
BE MINDFUL OF YOUR BIG BROTHER
The flood of new rules has been nonstop. Most amazing is how complacent the American people are about Big Brother's efforts to micromanage their lives... You can be imprisoned these days for some of the most minor offenses...All across the country, police and sheriff's departments have become more militarized. At one time, the equipment of an average law officer would include a vehicle, a radar gun, and a revolver. Today, the officer might have body armor, remote cameras, and weapons designed for crowd control...People who care about liberty need to be mindful of how easy it is for a nation to slip into tyranny...Christians need to be sensitive to the activity of a government that is out of control. -Todd Strandberg
http://www.raptureready.com/rap16.html
http://www.raptureready.com/rap16.html
Saturday, November 5, 2011
A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
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| My daughter's 13th Birthday Party taken by the lake at Camp Hebron |
A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
For 10 years it was on my mind. A magazine article that was about me in so many ways. I don't normally buy fitness magazines, but this issue of Shape had Oprah on the cover, looking lean in pink workout gear. I wanted to know how she lost all that weight, so I bought the December '96 issue.
But the inspiring story inside wasn't about fitness, it was about friendship. The article was titled, "A Circle of Friends." It described the life of Linda Torres, a Chicago paralegal who admitted feeling lonely and different because everyone else seemed to have people close by on whom they could rely. Her life felt empty because she didn't have family, friends, and neighbors who were an integral part of her life.
"Though she feels isolated, Linda ironically is hardly alone," the article stated. "Right now there are hundreds of thousands of young women in America just like her, and with our continued gravitation toward solitary activities, there are likely to be many many more."
I read that article with enthusiasm, agreeing with the author and praising her insight. We are spending record amounts of time pursuing privatized forms of leisure, such as watching TV, internet-surfing, and listening to music on headsets. Americans have become a nation of loners and ten years ago, I was one of them.
Like Linda, I felt isolated and I had felt that way for years. My neighbors were strangers and I lost touch with the few people I had considered friends. When I read the local newspaper, I was reminded of all the community activities that went on without me. I needed to make a change. I needed a support system, a sense of community that would make me feel like a participant in life instead of someone sitting on the sidelines.
My lack of social contacts could be why I was feeling depressed. According to the article in Shape, studies have shown depression to be less prevalent in women who maintain many close friendships. "There's evidence that membership in a community increases life expectancy and that it increases healing," the author claimed. My isolated life could be affecting both my mental and physical health. After carrying that magazine article in my head for 10 years, it was time to take action.
So I made a list of women who I considered to be worthy friends. They had to be kind, unselfish, and real. Not like the false friends of my youth who only served as pals to hang out with. They had to be caring and trustworthy because I knew we'd be sharing personal struggles. I needed to find a group of women who would encourage me and have genuine concern for my well-being, "a support system of people who help take the damaging edge off the troubles and tensions of life," as the article suggested.
After several hours of pondering, I came up with five names. My circle of friends would be half a dozen, including me...that is, if they agreed to accept my invitation. I felt nervous about sending those invites. They laid on my kitchen counter for days. The five cards read, "You are invited to a Circle of Friends dinner." I worried that my guests would reject this odd offering. Would they think I'm nuts?
A week after sending the cards, I received my first acceptance, and then another. I was feeling encouraged. I had taken a leap of faith and within two weeks, all five of my friends had accepted my invitation. But they didn't know I wanted our gathering to become a monthly habit.
When that November night finally arrived, it went better than expected. I felt relaxed. I was among a gracious group of women. We ate homemade pizza and chatted about our jobs, our kids, and our plans for Christmas. After dessert, when the conversation was winding down, I worked up the nerve to ask them.
First I shared the magazine article that inspired our meeting. I told them that I had first read "A Circle of Friends" 10 years ago and couldn't forget it because I could so much relate to this lonely woman Linda Torres. But I didn't want to be like her anymore. So I laid my heart open and asked. "I want you to be my circle of friends," I said.
They were touched by my request. I could see it in their eyes. Several women admitted to feeling isolated too. One said that she spends most of her time at home and co-workers weren't a big part of her life. I didn't have to persuade them to make our gatherings a regular event. We planned our next meeting that night and agreed to take turns being the hostess. One woman enthusiastically volunteered to have our December dinner at her house.
Then, before they left, I had one more thing to share. One by one I told each friend why I had chosen her to be part of the group. I said things like, "You're honest about your life and you don't pretend to be perfect; You admit when you feel like a mess; You have a great sense of humor and a strength I admire; You're dependable and you keep your word; and You have an endearing kindness about you."
It's been five years since that first Circle of Friends dinner I was so nervous about planning. Next week we will celebrate exactly five years since that November night when we agreed to meet each month. My friends are still thanking me for starting the group and inviting them to be part of it. One of our most enjoyable nights was when we played Hi/Low. Each of us shared the high and low moments of the past month. We learned a lot about each other that night and we laughed like never before. I was still laughing as I drove home.
My circle of friends have become a comforting part of my life. They are my soft place to fall once a month. I have a group of friends who accept me unconditionally and that boosts my self-esteem. I no longer feel disconnected from the world and that feeling has prompted me to get involved in other activities and meet more people. My life finally feels rich and full.
I guess the lesson in all of this is threefold: When we take a leap of faith, surprising, wonderful things can happen; Women need friends because they encourage us; and When we read something that inspires us, we shouldn't wait ten years to take action.
Friday, November 4, 2011
HYPOCRISY IN AMERICA
"President Obama will have the world believe that America is less brutal to its own citizens than the rest of the world, but as hundreds of thousands of people in the Occupy Movement now get their first taste of civil disobedience, it is inevitable that some will be unlucky enough to get the hard end of the state’s velvet fist." - Patrick Henningsen
Watch this video and you will have a decent idea of what hypocrisy means today in the US. The second link is the entire article by Patrick Henningsen.
http://youtu.be/S880UldxB1o
http://21stcenturywire.com/2011/11/01/obama-to-the-world-%E2%80%98do-as-we-say-not-as-we-do%E2%80%99/
Watch this video and you will have a decent idea of what hypocrisy means today in the US. The second link is the entire article by Patrick Henningsen.
http://youtu.be/S880UldxB1o
http://21stcenturywire.com/2011/11/01/obama-to-the-world-%E2%80%98do-as-we-say-not-as-we-do%E2%80%99/
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Keep Your Eye On the Candy
If you're looking for a place to buy delicious dehydrated foods that will last for years, I recommend ordering from E Foods. I tried many of their products and we seem to love them all. The flavor is excellent. And they're having a holiday sale right now. You can get free shipping when you order two of their holiday specials. If you compare what it would cost to feed your family with grocery store items for the same amount of time, you are actually saving money. Check out the link below, which explains how the price of candy has been going up, which is a good indicator of the overall rise in food prices.
Keep Your Eye On the Candy
Keep Your Eye On the Candy
Monday, October 31, 2011
MARTIAL LAW IN AMERICA?
"The Presidential executive orders are in place, Fusion Centers and FEMA detention camps are operational, and 20,000 US troops have been trained to deal specifically with economic collapse and civil unrest and are ready to be deployed immediately."
Someone asked me recently what would happen if martial law was put into place in America. The article below answers that question.
http://www.shtfplan.com/gerald-celente/gerald-celente-economic-martial-law-will-be-declared_08012011
Someone asked me recently what would happen if martial law was put into place in America. The article below answers that question.
http://www.shtfplan.com/gerald-celente/gerald-celente-economic-martial-law-will-be-declared_08012011
Friday, October 28, 2011
HOW CAN WE TRUST THEM? THE VACCINE DEBATE
New revelation about high ranking CDC official who played a key role in the H1N1 propaganda scare, and pushed vaccines on young children... This evidences her lack of integrity and concern for children and should finally settle your trust issue. Isn't it time to look elsewhere for advice? The second link reveals the neurological disorder that comes with the swine flu vaccine.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/10/28/cdc-director-arrested-for-child-molestation--bestiality.aspx
http://www.naturalnews.com/033816_swine_flu_vaccines_neurological_disorders.html
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/10/28/cdc-director-arrested-for-child-molestation--bestiality.aspx
http://www.naturalnews.com/033816_swine_flu_vaccines_neurological_disorders.html
Thursday, October 27, 2011
US: Veteran Scott Olsen Could Be The First Person To Die At A Wall Street Protest -- Society's Child -- Sott.net
US: Veteran Scott Olsen Could Be The First Person To Die At A Wall Street Protest -- Society's Child -- Sott.net: http://www.sott.net/articles/show/236754-US-Veteran-Scott-Olsen-Could-Be-The-First-Person-To-Die-At-A-Wall-Street-Protest
Monday, October 24, 2011
THREE PEOPLE, ONE JESUS
Akiane Kramarik painting Prince of Peace at age 8
If you read the book Heaven is For Real, you will see this same painting in the book. This is the painting that Colton Burpo recognized as Jesus, the man he met in Heaven when he almost died on the operating table. The links below are stories about three people who met Jesus. The last story was written by someone who read the book Heaven is For Real and saw the painting of Jesus in the book and then recognized him as the same man in her dream.
http://youtu.be/MBNMtPlBD0Y
http://youtu.be/QdUGoFTfP7w
http://michellewegner.com/2011/03/16/heaven-is-for-real/
Sunday, October 23, 2011
THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT book review
"Every single thing you do matters. You have been created as one of a kind. You have been created in order to make a difference. You have within you the power to change the world."
Andy Andrews
The Butterfly Effect shows how your everyday actions can make a difference for generations to come. Through inspiring stories, The Butterfly Effect, by Andy Andrews, shares the secret of a life of permanent purpose, where every decision and action you make in life matters, not only today, but for the future.
When you understand that every action matters, every result of our actions immediately improves! A life of permanent purpose will make you a better parent, a better spouse and a more valuable friend. The Butterfly Effect illustrates the unique power of the individual.
When Andy Andrews was 23, homeless and scared, he was given guidance by an old man named Jones: "When you know that everything matters...that every move counts as much as any other...you will begin living a life of permanent purpose, which will make you a better parent, a better spouse, and a more valuable friend. Your productivity and financial success will soar to new heights while the old days of uncertainty, doubt, and depression fade into the past."
That conversation changed Andy Andrews. It became the guiding force that produced the kind of author and speaker he has become.
"When we understand that every action matters, every result of our actions immediately improves," said Andrews. Our decisions become wiser and more cautious when we live a life of permanent purpose.
If you're wondering how significant your life is or if you make a difference. If you question whether the universe even notices your existence, then you should read this small but mighty book, The Butterfly Effect.
"In 1963, Edward Lorenz presented a hypothesis to the New York Academy of Science. His theory, stated simply, was that:
A butterfly could flap its wings and set molecules of air in motion, which would move other molecules of air, in turn moving more molecules of air--eventually capable of starting a hurricane on the other side of the planet.
Lorenz and his ideas were literally laughed out of the conference...Therefore because of the idea's charm and intrigue, the so-called butterfly effect became a staple of science fiction, remaining for decades a combination of myth and legend spread only by comic books and bad movies."
More than 30 years later, physics professors working from colleges and universities worldwide concluded that the butterfly effect was authentic, accurate, and viable. Today it is known as The Law of Sensitive Dependence Upon Initial Conditions.
The Butterfly Effect is a series of short stories about people who made decisions and discoveries that affected billions of people for centuries to come.
But the greatest story within its pages is your story: "There are generations yet unborn whose very lives will be shifted and shaped by the moves you make and the actions you take today. And tomorrow. And the next day. And the next...You have been created in order that you might make a difference...Your life and what you do with it today...matters forever."
Go to the link below and click on The Butterfly Effect book cover.
http://www.simpletruths.com/movies.asp
Saturday, October 22, 2011
GIRL'S NIGHT
My house was filled with chatter last night. My husband calls it a hen party. We call it girl's night. This month was my turn to be hostess, and I'm always amazed at how I must keep moving to get it all done. I had prepared the spiced pumpkin soup and bread pudding the day before, and still I was constantly on the move the day my guests arrived. It was a good kind of busy because these girls deserve to be pampered. I even made a trip to the local Friday Farmer's Market to buy fresh apples. They were dipped in caramel and given as gifts when it came time for our goodbye hugs.
Last night a few tears were shed when I suggested that we focus on really getting to know each other. I had a list of questions and a sand timer so everyone would get a chance to answer. The sand timer didn't work. But the question brought out many things we had been holding inside, things that needed to be shared.
By the end of the night we came to the conclusion that women do need connections with other women. And when we don't have those connections our marriages suffer. I recalled feeling lonely and isolated in my first marriage after my son was born. I felt a deep longing to be part of a woman's group, to have a place where I could share the struggles of being a new mom and a new wife. Because I didn't have anyone to fill that need, I depended on my husband for emotional support. It was a role he couldn't fill.
Fruity Bread Pudding
(from Cooking Light, Coombe Books, Ltd.)
3/4 Cup Raisins
3/4 Cup Currants
3/4 Cup Golden Raisins
3/4 Cup Prunes chopped
Finely grated rind and juice of one orange
8 thick slices of whole wheat bread, crusts removed
1/4 Cup butter softened
1/2 Cup brown sugar
1 1/4 Cups whole milk
2 eggs lightly beaten
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cardamon
1. Put all the dried fruit, orange rind and orange juice into a large bowl and mix well
2. Put about half of the mixed fruit into the base of a lightly buttered ovenproof serving dish
3. Spread the bread with butter and cut each slice into squares
4. Arrange half of the bread squares over the fruit in the base of the serving dish
5. Sprinkle with half of the brown sugar, then repeat the layers once again, finishing with a layer of sugar
6. Whisk together the milk, eggs, nutmeg, cardamon, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the bread pudding and allow to stand for one hour.
7. Bake the pudding in a preheated oven, 375 degrees for about 35-40 minutes or until crisp on top but still soft at the bottom. Serve hot or at room temperature. Serves 6
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Always Learning: Finding Godly Girlfriends
I love discovering great blogs. This one that I came across today answered many questions I've been pondering lately. The blog is titled Always Learning, and that's one thing that I never stop doing. God is still molding me and I have much to learn and much to improve on. Yesterday I caught myself contributing to the gossip mill when I shared a comment a woman had made to me at my daughter's birthday party. This woman is known for her blunt remarks that come out sounding not so nice. When someone else confessed to being hurt by her comments, I couldn't resist sharing my own experience. And I immediately felt lousy after I said it. It seems I'm constantly being put to the grindstone lately. God is stripping away my pride and molding me into a more humble person.
It's not easy to be humble. It's hard to remain silent when people say rude things. And I wonder at what point do I become a doormat if I remain silent. Being humble requires dying to self. But how much dying must I do? Must I completely ignore my own well-being in order to be like Jesus. I guess when we consider what Christ did on the cross the answer is yes.
I've made a lot of mistakes with my own mouth lately, so I guess I shouldn't gossip about other people who do the same. When I come across a woman who is rude or a woman who enjoys correcting my mistakes, I need to remind myself that she probably suffers from low self-esteem or insecurity and I need to feel compassion for her instead of anger. I need to look at the deeper issue that might be causing her behavior. That's not easy to do when my human nature wants to give her a lecture.
Yes, as Christians we are always learning. Because there is so much to learn. And making mistakes is part of the process. I'm learning to forgive myself when I mess up. Writing a blog like this and being a speaker sets me up for high expectations of my words and actions. But I have to remind myself that I'm flawed like everyone else. I have to remember that I'm still learning too, and sometimes I'm going to blow it. Maybe that's the key to being humble.
Always Learning: Finding Godly Girlfriends: We were just getting ready to pray and she exclaimed, "I need to go outside for some fresh air. My heart has been hurting and the pain is...
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
GLUE TO DECEIVE YOU
We have to watch for GLUED meat! Be sure to watch this......you will be shocked The next time that you are at the grocery store go to the pre-packaged meat coolers and look closely at the list of the countries on the label of any of the packaged meats (which is a mandatory FDA law) that shows where that meat came from. Buy only meat that came from USA or Canada
I'd go a step further and only buy meat from local butchers that you can trust. I totally understand why people become vegetarians. This video is shocking & everyone should be aware of what they are doing and what you are buying!!! Click on: http://d.yimg.com/nl/australia/site/player.swf?vid=24472661&repeat=0&browseCarouselUI=hi
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