I have wanted to write this blog for the longest time, but had to be patient and let God work out His full plan first. Before I get to our next few steps on this path called life; I feel like I need to back up a bit.
Before I came to know Christ and just hand my life to Him, I felt like I was in control of my every step. Some days, this was freeing as I liked that control. Other days, it was overwhelming because I was out of control. Right about the time I met Grant for the first time, I was in the process of thinking that perhaps how I was leading my life was not so great and maybe, maybe, I should let God have His way. I met Grant in January. He does not remember meeting me. He really feels the Lord had his eyes veiled because it was not our time to meet yet.
Through-out the next few months I started lurking around God again. Causally going to church with a dear friend (hi Jackie!). Cracking open the Bible every so often. By the time it was all done, I gave up. I told God I was done holding the reins and I wanted Him to take over.
Next thing I know, I meet Grant again. Within a weekend, we both knew that we had found our "ones". On our second day together Grant told me I would always be second. Not exactly what a girl in immediate puppy loves really wants to hear over lunch. But, given it was only behind God, I had no argument!
Most of you know our love story. Grant greatly influenced my growing relationship with Jesus. We married. We had Cate. We got out of Springfield and into San Marco to settle into our little life of suburbia. Then...we got pregnant with Colin. What? I am not ready for another child so soon. Then...we get moved to Monroeville, AL.Huh? But, Jacksonville is my home. Seriously, are we sure God knows what He is doing?!?
Our time in Monroeville was rough! In the end, it was for such good as it allowed us to have a relationship with Grant's mom, sister and nieces that never would have developed had we not lived there. But, there were times when we really questioned why in the world God had put us there. Our home in FL would not sell. We had to short sale it. And, with that, we had to continue renting a home in Monroeville instead of buying one. Only 14 months later we were moved to Montgomery, AL.
I remember the day Grant was called to interview for the job here. It was so stressful dealing with all that he was at his current job. We did not know when he would be let go, but he had already been told that funding for his position would be gone soon. It was so hard to watch as a wife because Grant worked as hard on his last day as he did his first day. Nothing like moving your family from everything it knows just to have uncertainty! But...while our involvement with an actual church was sparse, our relationship with God grew tremendously during that time.
A month or so after being asked to interview, our family called Montgomery home. Montgomery was a breath of fresh air! We had conveniences, Publix, Costco, church choices...things we missed in Monroeville. We felt like just perhaps we could start to put down some solid roots. We prayed for friends. But, life did not feel settled. While Grant's job was an absolute blessing, everything else here felt like it was at arm's length. We made friends, but on a surface level. Our church relationships were far and few between. We could not quite get comfortable here. It was not from lack of trying. I went WAY out of my comfort zone in efforts to make friends for our family. Yet, something kept us rather surface here. We would start looking for a house to buy and felt like the Lord had His hand on us not letting us go further.
We visited Jacksonville for vacation last summer. Like the previous summer, Grant made an effort to see his CSX contact while in town. His purpose was strictly to build a relationship with him as they work together on economic development projects. The first summer I joked that one day Grant would work for CSX. Well, the second summer, Grant making such an effort to see the guy upset me. It really interfered with our plans for the day. But, something (as in the Holy Spirit, apparently) made him feel it was necessary to make an effort to see him. Long story short, by the end of that meeting, Grant was asked to interview for a position when it opened at the end of the year.
When Grant called to tell me I was not thrilled. I was still trying to settle us into Montgomery. Sure, Nashville sounded nice, but I was ready to put down some deep roots. The last thing I wanted to do was relocate! So, for a while after that we let it go. But, then things changed. It's almost like the Lord started dropping the veil from my eyes. I saw Montgomery and Nashville in a different perspective. I was suddenly okay with Grant pursing the potential opportunity.
So...here we are...after five months of interviews, silence from the Lord, uncertainty, and an ever growing dependance on just how much the Lord controls our lives...we are relocating to Nashville, TN! We are thrilled! We have family there. Grant's new job is fantastic and provides for some great opportunities. The schools are awesome. It's just a great place to raise a family! When I blogged a while ago about wanting "more" I did not know the Lord was preparing me for just that. More! He is giving us more in a way I never could have imagined!
We had to move to Alabama for Grant to have an amazing opportunity at a Jacksonville-based company. And, by way of that, get to live among the other side of our family. What an amazing path the Lord has set thus far. I cannot wait to see just what He does once we move. I have stopped trying to think ahead of Him and instead take each day with gratitude and a complete trust that He is in control. Just remind me of that these next few weeks as the many details have to come together to get us moved.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Hangin' in the kitchen...
It's been a while since I've blogged. I have weeks when almost daily I have something to say, and then weeks when I feel very self-reflective and have not a whole lot to say. The Lord is usually at work in me during those days. Lately, He has been convicting me of where my heart's focus is: Him or the world? I have been convicted that, while it's our charge to be like Him, we really need to KNOW Him. Anyway...this really is aside from the reason I am posting today. But, sometimes, it's nice to share what the Lord is doing in my heart in hopes it may encourage you as well.
With Christmas not too far away, a friend (hi Renee!) asked for some ideas on homemade Christmas gifts. I love homemade Christmas gifts! It's just plain fun for me to hang in the kitchen and make goodies for family and friends. As the kids get older they get to be part of the process and that makes it even more enjoyable. For so many of our family there is really not much we can afford to buy them that they cannot buy for themselves. It seems more personal and loving to use our hands to make something instead of just buying any ol' thing that fits in the budget. When it comes to the Christmas budget, saving where we can is important to us. We would rather put our funds towards children who otherwise may not have a present to open. Let's face it, for the most part, those with whom we normally exchange gifts will be getting gifts from so many other people. We certainly want to honor them at Christmas and show our token of love with a gift, but have decided that it need not be a useless and/or overly expensive item to do so. This is not to say we do not buy gifts, but only if it fits into our budget and we truly believe it would be special to the recipient.
Here are some ideas for kitchen-based homemade gifts. For all of them, I recommend finding a pretty and different looking jar or bottle. I like to wrap gifts in the natural paper boxes from craft stores. They are inexpensive and do not require wrapping paper. I spend a little extra on real ribbon for decorating and pretty card stock for labeling. My friend etched glass last year for gifts. If you can only find plain jars, etching them may be a way to personalize and dress them up a bit.
Vanilla Extract
If you know anyone who enjoys baking, she will tell you that vanilla extract is in just about every recipe. Good extract is expensive. Cheap extract contains a bunch of chemicals. And...don't even get me started on the imitation stuff! Making homemade extract is beyond easy! The hardest part about it is being sure you start it within at least a month before you want to give it away.
12 vanilla beans (Penzye Spices sells affordable vanilla beans.)
1 1.75 L bottle of vodka (do not use expensive stuff here! I like to use a low to mid-priced vodka. But, do not buy the dirt cheap stuff as it's a bit harsh.)
Okay - are you ready for how to make it???
Here we go:
Place the vanilla beans in the vodka bottle and let sit in a dark, cool place for at least 4 weeks. Ta-da - you have just made vanilla extract!
After it has fully steeped, pour the extract in smaller bottles. You can put a vanilla bean in each gift bottle. Or let them dry out and make vanilla sugar with them for an additional gift.
Vanilla Sugar
Using the beans from the vanilla extract, slice the bean in half length-ways. This will expose the little vanilla specs. Nestle the cut vanilla bean into a container of sugar. Let it sit, stirring every so often, for a few days. This sugar is great in coffee and tea. Another variety is orange sugar. Peel large pieces of orange rind into sugar. Do the same with the vanilla sugar and you have another flavorful sugar. In fact, make them both and pair with tea for a great teacher's gift.
Limoncello
Limoncello is an Italian aperitif. It's sweet and lemony. It's wonderful to sip on after a heavy meal. Be warned though, a little goes a long way! I have made this using Giadia's recipe, so I am going to give it to you the way she has written it. You can also take the same technique and use tangerines or oranges. This is very simple, but also requires a couple of weeks of steeping before it's ready for consumption. I like to deliver this is pretty glass bottles with the hing top. If you wanted to expand the gift, add a couple of simple small sipping glasses.
10 lemons
1 (750-ml) bottle vodka (same as above, do not over-spend on the vodka, but do buy a mid-priced one)
3 1/2 cups water
2 1/2 cups sugar
With Christmas not too far away, a friend (hi Renee!) asked for some ideas on homemade Christmas gifts. I love homemade Christmas gifts! It's just plain fun for me to hang in the kitchen and make goodies for family and friends. As the kids get older they get to be part of the process and that makes it even more enjoyable. For so many of our family there is really not much we can afford to buy them that they cannot buy for themselves. It seems more personal and loving to use our hands to make something instead of just buying any ol' thing that fits in the budget. When it comes to the Christmas budget, saving where we can is important to us. We would rather put our funds towards children who otherwise may not have a present to open. Let's face it, for the most part, those with whom we normally exchange gifts will be getting gifts from so many other people. We certainly want to honor them at Christmas and show our token of love with a gift, but have decided that it need not be a useless and/or overly expensive item to do so. This is not to say we do not buy gifts, but only if it fits into our budget and we truly believe it would be special to the recipient.
Here are some ideas for kitchen-based homemade gifts. For all of them, I recommend finding a pretty and different looking jar or bottle. I like to wrap gifts in the natural paper boxes from craft stores. They are inexpensive and do not require wrapping paper. I spend a little extra on real ribbon for decorating and pretty card stock for labeling. My friend etched glass last year for gifts. If you can only find plain jars, etching them may be a way to personalize and dress them up a bit.
Vanilla Extract
If you know anyone who enjoys baking, she will tell you that vanilla extract is in just about every recipe. Good extract is expensive. Cheap extract contains a bunch of chemicals. And...don't even get me started on the imitation stuff! Making homemade extract is beyond easy! The hardest part about it is being sure you start it within at least a month before you want to give it away.
12 vanilla beans (Penzye Spices sells affordable vanilla beans.)
1 1.75 L bottle of vodka (do not use expensive stuff here! I like to use a low to mid-priced vodka. But, do not buy the dirt cheap stuff as it's a bit harsh.)
Okay - are you ready for how to make it???
Here we go:
Place the vanilla beans in the vodka bottle and let sit in a dark, cool place for at least 4 weeks. Ta-da - you have just made vanilla extract!
After it has fully steeped, pour the extract in smaller bottles. You can put a vanilla bean in each gift bottle. Or let them dry out and make vanilla sugar with them for an additional gift.
Vanilla Sugar
Using the beans from the vanilla extract, slice the bean in half length-ways. This will expose the little vanilla specs. Nestle the cut vanilla bean into a container of sugar. Let it sit, stirring every so often, for a few days. This sugar is great in coffee and tea. Another variety is orange sugar. Peel large pieces of orange rind into sugar. Do the same with the vanilla sugar and you have another flavorful sugar. In fact, make them both and pair with tea for a great teacher's gift.
Limoncello
Limoncello is an Italian aperitif. It's sweet and lemony. It's wonderful to sip on after a heavy meal. Be warned though, a little goes a long way! I have made this using Giadia's recipe, so I am going to give it to you the way she has written it. You can also take the same technique and use tangerines or oranges. This is very simple, but also requires a couple of weeks of steeping before it's ready for consumption. I like to deliver this is pretty glass bottles with the hing top. If you wanted to expand the gift, add a couple of simple small sipping glasses.
10 lemons
1 (750-ml) bottle vodka (same as above, do not over-spend on the vodka, but do buy a mid-priced one)
3 1/2 cups water
2 1/2 cups sugar
Using a vegetable peeler, remove the peel from the lemons in long strips (reserve the lemons for another use). Using a small sharp knife, trim away the white pith from the lemon peels; discard the pith. Place the lemon peels in a 2-quart pitcher. Pour the vodka over the peels and cover with plastic wrap. Steep the lemon peels in the vodka for 4 days at room temperature.
Stir the water and sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Cool completely. Pour the sugar syrup over the vodka mixture. Cover and let stand at room temperature overnight. Strain the limoncello through a mesh strainer. Discard the peels. Transfer the limoncello to bottles. Seal the bottles and refrigerate until cold, at least 4 hours and up to 1 month.
Sun-dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil
These make a pretty presentation, especially if in a clear jar. I am not going to give you amounts here because it really just depends on how much you want to make. Be sure to plan for the fact that each tomato will shrink quite a bit once dried.
Roma tomatoes, cut in half length-ways (If you prefer a different tomato, cut them in quarters.)
salt and pepper
extra virgin olive oil
Set oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silpat. Toss sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on baking sheet. Place in oven and let bake for 2 - 4 hours. The cooking time will depend upon how juicy the tomatoes are. If you live in a dry, warm place with few insects, you truly could sun dry these. Unfortunately, I live in a place where they would be covered in pests in no time!
The tomatoes are done once they are shriveled and absent any moisture (like a raisin). Let cool and then place in jar. Cover with olive oil. For a little extra flavor and decoration you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil.
You can also roast garlic and place it in the jar as well. Do NOT put raw garlic in though. Raw garlic can become toxic after sitting in oil for too long.
Flavored Oils
Flavored oils are so simple and can make for a very pretty presentation. The only caution is echoed from above, do not let raw garlic remain in anything you make. Herbs are perfectly safe to remain in oils.
To make flavored oil heat the oil and place the flavor (herbs, garlic, hot peppers, etc.) into it. Allow is to soak in the warm oil for an hour. I recommend three herb sprigs; four garlic clove; and 1 hot pepper cut in half per each cup of oil. Be sure the oil is merely warm. If it's too hot, you will fry the herbs or garlic and they may become bitter. After an hour, remove the flavor and place the oil in a bottle. If using herbs, put a few sprigs of the fresh herb in the bottle too (hot peppers would be good too). It will give it extra flavor. I prefer to use olive oil when making an herb or garlic oil, but prefer a flavorless oil (like Canola) for pepper oils. If you want ideas for what makes a good flavored oil, cruise through Williams Sonoma or a nicer grocery store and see what is on the shelves.
These oils pair well with a great loaf of homemade (or bakery bought) bread, balsamic vinegar and an herb packet (a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper). Recommend the recipient put a little oil and vinegar in a shallow bowl or plate, sprinkle with the herbs and use it as dip for the bread.
The final idea I have is my husband's sea salt caramels. I cannot seem to find his recipe. As soon as I do (if he'll even share it!) I'll share it with you.
I hope these ideas help you to enjoy some time in the kitchen this holiday season, while presenting your family and friends with some thoughtful and yummy gifts! Bon Appetite!
Sun-dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil
These make a pretty presentation, especially if in a clear jar. I am not going to give you amounts here because it really just depends on how much you want to make. Be sure to plan for the fact that each tomato will shrink quite a bit once dried.
Roma tomatoes, cut in half length-ways (If you prefer a different tomato, cut them in quarters.)
salt and pepper
extra virgin olive oil
Set oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silpat. Toss sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on baking sheet. Place in oven and let bake for 2 - 4 hours. The cooking time will depend upon how juicy the tomatoes are. If you live in a dry, warm place with few insects, you truly could sun dry these. Unfortunately, I live in a place where they would be covered in pests in no time!
The tomatoes are done once they are shriveled and absent any moisture (like a raisin). Let cool and then place in jar. Cover with olive oil. For a little extra flavor and decoration you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil.
You can also roast garlic and place it in the jar as well. Do NOT put raw garlic in though. Raw garlic can become toxic after sitting in oil for too long.
Flavored Oils
Flavored oils are so simple and can make for a very pretty presentation. The only caution is echoed from above, do not let raw garlic remain in anything you make. Herbs are perfectly safe to remain in oils.
To make flavored oil heat the oil and place the flavor (herbs, garlic, hot peppers, etc.) into it. Allow is to soak in the warm oil for an hour. I recommend three herb sprigs; four garlic clove; and 1 hot pepper cut in half per each cup of oil. Be sure the oil is merely warm. If it's too hot, you will fry the herbs or garlic and they may become bitter. After an hour, remove the flavor and place the oil in a bottle. If using herbs, put a few sprigs of the fresh herb in the bottle too (hot peppers would be good too). It will give it extra flavor. I prefer to use olive oil when making an herb or garlic oil, but prefer a flavorless oil (like Canola) for pepper oils. If you want ideas for what makes a good flavored oil, cruise through Williams Sonoma or a nicer grocery store and see what is on the shelves.
These oils pair well with a great loaf of homemade (or bakery bought) bread, balsamic vinegar and an herb packet (a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper). Recommend the recipient put a little oil and vinegar in a shallow bowl or plate, sprinkle with the herbs and use it as dip for the bread.
The final idea I have is my husband's sea salt caramels. I cannot seem to find his recipe. As soon as I do (if he'll even share it!) I'll share it with you.
I hope these ideas help you to enjoy some time in the kitchen this holiday season, while presenting your family and friends with some thoughtful and yummy gifts! Bon Appetite!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Real Men Do Eat Quiche.
I made a commitment for our family to go meatless for dinner once a week. Per EWG, going meatless just once a week saves on energy and sustainability tremendously. And, given we are trying to reign in our budget, going meatless also makes for a very inexpensive dinner option. Bless my poor husband for patiently going along with all of this. Last week, his after dinner comment was, "that was surprisingly fulfilling...".
Last night, I made a quiche. I am not a huge egg fan...the texture gets the best of me. But, this quiche was so good I thought I'd share the recipe. I served it with a cup of roasted vegetable soup (see recipe below).
Anywho...here is the quiche recipe (the original came from The Taste of Home Cookbook, but I made changes to better suit our personal tastes):
Cheddar Broccoli Quiche
Serves 4 - 6 adults
Crust (or a store bought one will do fine too or your favorite crust recipe)
1 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/3 c. shortening (if you have cold bacon fat, use it here - it makes a great savory crust!)
3 Tbs. cold milk
Cut flour and salt with the shortening. Add cold milk until the dough forms into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll out to fit a 9 inch pie plate. Fit into pie plate. Do NOT prick. Line with double layer of foil. Bake for 5 minutes at 450 degrees. Uncover and let bake another 5 minutes. Let cool slightly before filling.
Reduce Oven to 350 degrees before baking full quiche.
Quiche Filling
2 c. cooked (roasted is great!) chopped broccoli (cauliflower, or other veggies would be good too)
3 eggs
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. whole mayo (light and reduced fat will break)
1 1/2 c. grated, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, divided
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
Evenly place broccoli into baked pie crust. Place eggs, milk, mayo, nutmeg, pepper, salt and 1 cup of cheese into a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour over broccoli and top with remaining cheese.
Bake, uncovered 28 -- 33 minutes, or until knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to over or under bake as the texture will not be a as creamy. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Roasted Vegetable Soup
Serves 2 - 4 adults
2 c. cherry tomatos
1 large tomato, chopped
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 c. chopped carrot
1/4 c. chopped celery
2 garlic cloves, smashed
olive oil
salt and pepper
1/4 c. heavy cream
water as needed
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil and salt. Place on sheet pan in a single layer. Roast for 30 minutes. Set aside.
Coat the bottom of a sauce pot in olive oil. Add onions, carrots and celery. Sprinkle with salt. Let sweat for 10 - 15 minutes, until tender and onion translucent. Add garlic and chopped fresh tomato. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes. Add roasted tomatoes (including any pan juices and olive oil). Let simmer for another 10 - 15 minutes, until everything is soft and all juices rendered from the vegetables.
Place everything into a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until desired consistency. We prefer it very smooth. Put back into sauce pot. Stir in heavy cream, and water until the desired soup consistency you like. Add salt, pepper and olive oil as needed for taste. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Last night, I made a quiche. I am not a huge egg fan...the texture gets the best of me. But, this quiche was so good I thought I'd share the recipe. I served it with a cup of roasted vegetable soup (see recipe below).
Anywho...here is the quiche recipe (the original came from The Taste of Home Cookbook, but I made changes to better suit our personal tastes):
Cheddar Broccoli Quiche
Serves 4 - 6 adults
Crust (or a store bought one will do fine too or your favorite crust recipe)
1 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/3 c. shortening (if you have cold bacon fat, use it here - it makes a great savory crust!)
3 Tbs. cold milk
Cut flour and salt with the shortening. Add cold milk until the dough forms into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll out to fit a 9 inch pie plate. Fit into pie plate. Do NOT prick. Line with double layer of foil. Bake for 5 minutes at 450 degrees. Uncover and let bake another 5 minutes. Let cool slightly before filling.
Reduce Oven to 350 degrees before baking full quiche.
Quiche Filling
2 c. cooked (roasted is great!) chopped broccoli (cauliflower, or other veggies would be good too)
3 eggs
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. whole mayo (light and reduced fat will break)
1 1/2 c. grated, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, divided
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
Evenly place broccoli into baked pie crust. Place eggs, milk, mayo, nutmeg, pepper, salt and 1 cup of cheese into a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour over broccoli and top with remaining cheese.
Bake, uncovered 28 -- 33 minutes, or until knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to over or under bake as the texture will not be a as creamy. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Roasted Vegetable Soup
Serves 2 - 4 adults
2 c. cherry tomatos
1 large tomato, chopped
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 c. chopped carrot
1/4 c. chopped celery
2 garlic cloves, smashed
olive oil
salt and pepper
1/4 c. heavy cream
water as needed
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil and salt. Place on sheet pan in a single layer. Roast for 30 minutes. Set aside.
Coat the bottom of a sauce pot in olive oil. Add onions, carrots and celery. Sprinkle with salt. Let sweat for 10 - 15 minutes, until tender and onion translucent. Add garlic and chopped fresh tomato. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes. Add roasted tomatoes (including any pan juices and olive oil). Let simmer for another 10 - 15 minutes, until everything is soft and all juices rendered from the vegetables.
Place everything into a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until desired consistency. We prefer it very smooth. Put back into sauce pot. Stir in heavy cream, and water until the desired soup consistency you like. Add salt, pepper and olive oil as needed for taste. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Grandma was right!
For months now, the Lord has put on me (us) to revise how we spend money. Constantly, folks would talk about the "envelope system" as presented by Dave Ramsey. It seemed cumbersome, limited and, well, I spend money just fine on my own, thank you very much. There was the problem. I spend money just how I please. We have a monthly budget. Thankfully, our bills are paid in full and on time. We joyfully give back where the Lord directs us. But, each month we seem to be squeeking to the next paycheck. It's not because we have nothing left over after our set amounts are paid. In fact, I am often amazed at how much is left over. Yet, some how that pile of money would evaporate quickly. But, no, I don't need any help here. I'll keep spending money the way we always have been. (You know the definition of insanity is to do the same thing over again and expect a different result!)
I would talk to people about this cash system and what does that Dave Ramsey guy have to say and determine it was just not for me. Well, of course, those folks paid off their debt, they sold their car, or stopped getting weekly pedicures, etc. etc. (i.e. excuse, excuse!). And, we are not big-spending-shoppers, so just what were we supposed to cut, Dave?!? (The Lord did sell our car and we were at least faithful to applying that payment towards our monthly credit card debt.)
I prayed the Lord to change how we were handling our finances. As you know from previous posts we prayed over (and continue to do so) our credit card debt. The Lord has been so incredible in helping us to get rid of it to the point that one is paid and closed already! We were praying, but honestly, my heart had not changed about this whole cash and envelope way of spending money. (Lord, give us a way, but I am not going to listen to the wise counsel that seems to be working for all of these other people!)
Then, my brother-in-law up and gets a job with Dave Ramsey and gives us his first book, Financial Peace.Ugh! Now, I have no excuse but to read the dang thing. And, just like that my heart finally changed! Thank you, Lord!
This week has been week #1 of using cash. While some folks use this system to a very detailed extent - many different envelopes for each line of their budget, we started small. One for groceries and one for "other fun" - eating out, kids play-dates, etc. I went through our bank records to get an estimate of just what we were spending on groceries and then we decided what we are willing to spend on the "other". I also created a one-time "back to school" envelope as I knew we needed one new pair of shoes and I had promised each child a first day of school outfit. So, I took out cash for all of that.
It's only been a week (and I still have to make what I have left in the envelopes last for another week), but I have to tell you...IT WORKS! Since I have a set amount to spend, I have to make a conscience choice on what is a priority. The grocery store is somewhat easy for me. I meal plan and make a list. I spent more than I thought I would, and realize that we may have to adjust that after the first month. It's not that I am blowing money on groceries (8% of our total budget is low), but we may have underestimated just what things cost right now. A friend also advised an "entertaining" envelope as we often have people over for dinner. We'll see how the month as a whole averages out before making a change.
The most encouraging was the "Back to School" envelope. I hope these examples encourage you as I am not sharing to pat myself on the back. I had a budget set for Colin's new shoes. We found ones he liked (on sale with a 20% off code!). The store was having a huge sale on women's and girl's shoes. Normally, I would have cruised through that section looking for myself and Cate (though we had just tried on her shoes and she clearly is not in need). But, I did not because I knew that spending more there, would mean no new first day clothes for them.
When we went clothes shopping it was easy to stick to my guns about what they could get. I knew what I was able to spend, so Cate had the choice of ONE outfit (shorts/shirt or a dress) as did Colin (the dress not being an option). And, let me tell you, there were some CUTE things all under $10. In all honestly, they have so many clothes thanks to their grandmothers that they did not NEED these new things. It was just a fun way to help them get excited about their first day. So...for the first time in my life I paid cash as Target! It was awesome! I even had a few bucks left over and bought a little something to send to my niece. It was such a cool feeling! I have no doubt that two weeks ago, I would have spent double.
Here is another example: in the "other fun" envelope we intended that money to be used for eating out and any play-date expenses. This week, I had an opportunity to have dinner/drinks with a friend. We also have set plans with a group to go to the baseball game this coming Sunday evening. In all, each would cost about the same amount. Two weeks ago, I would have done both. I would have whipped out the debit card at the friend dinner without a second thought. I had to look at what was left in the envelope and see that we could not do both. I feared I would be resentful about having to make a choice, but I did not at all. In a way, making a sacrifice seems like what we should be doing. After all, I did not make any sacrifice when racking up the credit card bills!
Though, at the time I justified it as needs because it was often on groceries when my husbands salary was cut. But, really, we just did not want to adjust our lifestyle, not adjust just what I was cooking. Nothing was cut from our budget while we put legitimate needs on the credit card. It absolutely stinks to be paying for a loaf of bread three years later!
Week one was liberating! It was not confining at all. It was so much easier to say "no" to the kids when they wanted to eat lunch out because I had this set amount we could spend over the next two weeks. I have had to act as though the money left in our bank account simply does not exist.
I have learned that a debit card still allows me to have a credit card mentality. It's a mentality I have fully embraced for the past 20 years. Up until last week I have been a 100% committed debit card gal. I just pray the Lord will continue to encourage me on this and hold me accountable for what I spend. My husband works very hard to earn this money, the very least I can do is not only honor the Lord, but him in how I spend it.
Plus, it gets me one step closer to being my grandma...if you cannot pay cash for it, don't buy it!
I would talk to people about this cash system and what does that Dave Ramsey guy have to say and determine it was just not for me. Well, of course, those folks paid off their debt, they sold their car, or stopped getting weekly pedicures, etc. etc. (i.e. excuse, excuse!). And, we are not big-spending-shoppers, so just what were we supposed to cut, Dave?!? (The Lord did sell our car and we were at least faithful to applying that payment towards our monthly credit card debt.)
I prayed the Lord to change how we were handling our finances. As you know from previous posts we prayed over (and continue to do so) our credit card debt. The Lord has been so incredible in helping us to get rid of it to the point that one is paid and closed already! We were praying, but honestly, my heart had not changed about this whole cash and envelope way of spending money. (Lord, give us a way, but I am not going to listen to the wise counsel that seems to be working for all of these other people!)
Then, my brother-in-law up and gets a job with Dave Ramsey and gives us his first book, Financial Peace.Ugh! Now, I have no excuse but to read the dang thing. And, just like that my heart finally changed! Thank you, Lord!
This week has been week #1 of using cash. While some folks use this system to a very detailed extent - many different envelopes for each line of their budget, we started small. One for groceries and one for "other fun" - eating out, kids play-dates, etc. I went through our bank records to get an estimate of just what we were spending on groceries and then we decided what we are willing to spend on the "other". I also created a one-time "back to school" envelope as I knew we needed one new pair of shoes and I had promised each child a first day of school outfit. So, I took out cash for all of that.
It's only been a week (and I still have to make what I have left in the envelopes last for another week), but I have to tell you...IT WORKS! Since I have a set amount to spend, I have to make a conscience choice on what is a priority. The grocery store is somewhat easy for me. I meal plan and make a list. I spent more than I thought I would, and realize that we may have to adjust that after the first month. It's not that I am blowing money on groceries (8% of our total budget is low), but we may have underestimated just what things cost right now. A friend also advised an "entertaining" envelope as we often have people over for dinner. We'll see how the month as a whole averages out before making a change.
The most encouraging was the "Back to School" envelope. I hope these examples encourage you as I am not sharing to pat myself on the back. I had a budget set for Colin's new shoes. We found ones he liked (on sale with a 20% off code!). The store was having a huge sale on women's and girl's shoes. Normally, I would have cruised through that section looking for myself and Cate (though we had just tried on her shoes and she clearly is not in need). But, I did not because I knew that spending more there, would mean no new first day clothes for them.
When we went clothes shopping it was easy to stick to my guns about what they could get. I knew what I was able to spend, so Cate had the choice of ONE outfit (shorts/shirt or a dress) as did Colin (the dress not being an option). And, let me tell you, there were some CUTE things all under $10. In all honestly, they have so many clothes thanks to their grandmothers that they did not NEED these new things. It was just a fun way to help them get excited about their first day. So...for the first time in my life I paid cash as Target! It was awesome! I even had a few bucks left over and bought a little something to send to my niece. It was such a cool feeling! I have no doubt that two weeks ago, I would have spent double.
Here is another example: in the "other fun" envelope we intended that money to be used for eating out and any play-date expenses. This week, I had an opportunity to have dinner/drinks with a friend. We also have set plans with a group to go to the baseball game this coming Sunday evening. In all, each would cost about the same amount. Two weeks ago, I would have done both. I would have whipped out the debit card at the friend dinner without a second thought. I had to look at what was left in the envelope and see that we could not do both. I feared I would be resentful about having to make a choice, but I did not at all. In a way, making a sacrifice seems like what we should be doing. After all, I did not make any sacrifice when racking up the credit card bills!
Though, at the time I justified it as needs because it was often on groceries when my husbands salary was cut. But, really, we just did not want to adjust our lifestyle, not adjust just what I was cooking. Nothing was cut from our budget while we put legitimate needs on the credit card. It absolutely stinks to be paying for a loaf of bread three years later!
Week one was liberating! It was not confining at all. It was so much easier to say "no" to the kids when they wanted to eat lunch out because I had this set amount we could spend over the next two weeks. I have had to act as though the money left in our bank account simply does not exist.
I have learned that a debit card still allows me to have a credit card mentality. It's a mentality I have fully embraced for the past 20 years. Up until last week I have been a 100% committed debit card gal. I just pray the Lord will continue to encourage me on this and hold me accountable for what I spend. My husband works very hard to earn this money, the very least I can do is not only honor the Lord, but him in how I spend it.
Plus, it gets me one step closer to being my grandma...if you cannot pay cash for it, don't buy it!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Who needs a campfire?!?
A couple of weeks ago while watching something on Food Network (you could take away my other channels and leave me just this one and I would be just fine) I came across a chef's favorite dessert in the form of a s'mores pie of sorts. I looked at my husband and his eyes were wide and wanting that dessert. So, yesterday, since we had company coming for dinner, I decided to create it. It needed a few components to make it more special than a regular s'more, but too many and it would lose its initial purpose. I needed a good graham cracker crust; a creamy peanut butter layer (the surprise element), rich chocolate and toasted marshmallows. Oh my, what I created was y.u.m.m.y.! I just have to share the recipe so others can enjoy this awesomeness! (Side note, I did not realize that "awesomeness" is a real word, but apparently it is as spell check did not just underline it. Interesting.)
S'mores Peanut Butter Tart
10 inch tart pan (you could also use a spring form pan, but do not recommend a pie plate.)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Crust
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 Tbs melted unsalted butter
3 Tbs sugar
Mix together until well combined and course. Press into pan, coming up the sides.
Bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool while preparing the peanut butter filling.
Peanut Butter Filling
3/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter (preferably with no added sugar)
1/4 cup condensed milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and well blended. Pour onto crust and smooth out to edges. This is easier said than done as the peanut butter filling is pretty thick, so take your time so as to not tear up the crust. Place in oven for 7 minutes. If needed, spread filling out a bit more as it will be much softer once heated.
Turn oven off. And, let tart cool while preparing the chocolate filling. And, if you are already wondering just how much more sweet and fattening this thing can get...just hold on and plan to hit thecouch gym a little extra tomorrow.
Chocolate Filling
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (any chocolate will be good here. I may use milk chocolate next time)
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 Tbs light corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract (I also think coffee would be good instead)
Put all but the vanilla extract into a bowl over a pot of hot, but not boiling, water. Stir until all is melted and well-combined. Take off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour over the peanut butter filling, smoothing to the sides.
Allow to cool for an hour on the counter-top and then in the refrigerator for an hour before topping with marshmallow cream.
Marshmallow Cream (you could use Fluff here, but it will not set up like a real marshmallow and lose some of the "s'more effect")
2 cup sugar
3/4 cup water
2 Tbs plain powdered gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp salt
Simmer the sugar and 3/4 cup of water until soft ball stage (135 - 140 degrees). While simmering, put 1/2 cup cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle powered gelatin over water and gently stir so it dissolves.
Once sugar mixture reaches temperature pour over gelatin mixture and gently stir to combine and dissolve all gelatin. (be warned this will have a funky smell from the gelatin, but it will not taste funky.)
Let cool for 10 minutes. Next, whip on high speed until white and fluffy with stiff peaks (about 7 minutes). Add vanilla extract, powdered sugar and salt. Let mix for a moment to combine.
Spread onto chocolate layer. Do not overly smooth the top but make swirls with the knife so that little peaks form.. Place in refrigerator until 15 minutes before ready to eat it.
***you will have left over marshmallow cream. You can make regular marshmallows with it. Dust a pan with powdered sugar and pour mixture into it. Sprinkle mixture with more powdered sugar. Let cool completely and slice into squares.
To serve: Preheat broiler to low with oven rack about four inches from the top. Remove tart from refrigerator at least 15 minutes before serving. Place in oven and brown the marshmallows for 5 minutes (you may want to keep close watch so they do not burn). Let cool for a moment and slice. This is very rich, so small slices are necessary. Enjoy!
S'mores Peanut Butter Tart
10 inch tart pan (you could also use a spring form pan, but do not recommend a pie plate.)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Crust
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 Tbs melted unsalted butter
3 Tbs sugar
Mix together until well combined and course. Press into pan, coming up the sides.
Bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool while preparing the peanut butter filling.
Peanut Butter Filling
3/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter (preferably with no added sugar)
1/4 cup condensed milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and well blended. Pour onto crust and smooth out to edges. This is easier said than done as the peanut butter filling is pretty thick, so take your time so as to not tear up the crust. Place in oven for 7 minutes. If needed, spread filling out a bit more as it will be much softer once heated.
Turn oven off. And, let tart cool while preparing the chocolate filling. And, if you are already wondering just how much more sweet and fattening this thing can get...just hold on and plan to hit the
Chocolate Filling
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (any chocolate will be good here. I may use milk chocolate next time)
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 Tbs light corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract (I also think coffee would be good instead)
Put all but the vanilla extract into a bowl over a pot of hot, but not boiling, water. Stir until all is melted and well-combined. Take off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour over the peanut butter filling, smoothing to the sides.
Allow to cool for an hour on the counter-top and then in the refrigerator for an hour before topping with marshmallow cream.
Marshmallow Cream (you could use Fluff here, but it will not set up like a real marshmallow and lose some of the "s'more effect")
2 cup sugar
3/4 cup water
2 Tbs plain powdered gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp salt
Simmer the sugar and 3/4 cup of water until soft ball stage (135 - 140 degrees). While simmering, put 1/2 cup cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle powered gelatin over water and gently stir so it dissolves.
Once sugar mixture reaches temperature pour over gelatin mixture and gently stir to combine and dissolve all gelatin. (be warned this will have a funky smell from the gelatin, but it will not taste funky.)
Let cool for 10 minutes. Next, whip on high speed until white and fluffy with stiff peaks (about 7 minutes). Add vanilla extract, powdered sugar and salt. Let mix for a moment to combine.
Spread onto chocolate layer. Do not overly smooth the top but make swirls with the knife so that little peaks form.. Place in refrigerator until 15 minutes before ready to eat it.
***you will have left over marshmallow cream. You can make regular marshmallows with it. Dust a pan with powdered sugar and pour mixture into it. Sprinkle mixture with more powdered sugar. Let cool completely and slice into squares.
To serve: Preheat broiler to low with oven rack about four inches from the top. Remove tart from refrigerator at least 15 minutes before serving. Place in oven and brown the marshmallows for 5 minutes (you may want to keep close watch so they do not burn). Let cool for a moment and slice. This is very rich, so small slices are necessary. Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
I want more!
I want more! Not more stuff. Not more things to clutter the house, to make me feel pretty, to entertain the kids. I want more of what I can in no way buy. I want more of what only being in the Lord's wheelhouse can get me. I find myself just not sure how to get it.
I am a content person. The Lord has sharpened me to be content in plenty and in need. Prior to this move, we fell into the need category.. The Lord has surely blessed our family since moving us here. We live in a lovely home; have met some wonderful people; my husband has a good job; our finances are stable. We have no outward needs. Yet, I want more.
I found myself mid-workout last week just sitting there on the bench with dumbbell in hand, thinking, "is this it, Lord?". Is this our life moving forward? We are not in need, yet here I sit in a fitness center where I am not completely comfortable. I seemed to do better in the run-down YMCA for some reason. I found myself sitting by the pool with our children looking around and thinking, "I am not like these ladies. Our kids are not like theirs"...and rather thankful for that given what makes us different. (At least on the outward, what you can learn from hearing a mother talk to her young kids kind of way.) I want more relationships than what this offers.
Our kids start preschool next week. I am not 100% thrilled with the program. We have them there because we know it will prepare them for the magnet school test they will have to take before entering kindergarten. I do not have any confidence in the elementary school up the road, so I want to be sure they get into the magnet school. It is nowhere near our home and will be wholly inconvenient to have them there. I want better education for our children, not some "test and hope you get picked" education.
We attend a nice church. It is a bit overwhelming for us because it is so large. Here we found you go with the denomination that feels the least like a denomination. Non-denominational churches are few here. We had to allow ourselves to settle knowing we will not find what we really seek in a church here. The teaching at this church, while rarely piercing, has indeed convicted us to make some changes to our lives. Our kids are being well fed there. There are ample mission opportunities. We are serving and tithing. Yet, our real gifts are still hidden because of its size. My heart hurts to know the Lord gave my husband an amazing voice that will more than likely not get used because worship is a production and the cast is already set. We are committed to our Lord no matter our place of worship. It is not a complaint, just a reality that we settled and that just does not seem good enough. I fear we could become lukewarm Christians and not even realize it.
We have been here nearly two years and my husband has not one friend. I have a few but they are slow relationships to build upon. (I am very thankful for those few!) It is difficult to feel like relationships are at an arms length. It is difficult to know that in a few weeks football season will begin and my husband will be stuck with just me to watch the game. We are not from here and we are not in the military so we fall into some odd social zone. I want friends for us.
I miss family being around the corner. We left my family to move to my husband's family initially. Those first few months were tough (tough!) as we all got to know each other. Getting to develop such a relationship with my mother-in-law, and our kids to build a foundation with their grandmother, was worth every tough day. Of course, I miss my side of the family. I sometimes feel like we are wasting time being in a place with no family. Our kids deserve to know their extended family more than the occasional visit and phone calls.
There are things the Lord has put on us that will be our mission no matter where He has us - adopt, pay off our debt, serve Him in any way He asks. We were guns-a-blazin' with adoption and then felt the Lord pause us.We are moving full steam ahead with our debt pay-off. He has blessed that path so far. We are doing what we can to serve Common Ground (it feels like we should be doing more, but until nap time is not needed, I am limited).
Maybe the Lord just wants us to focus on these things and let the rest fall as it may?
But still, I want more. More of what only God can provide.
I am a content person. The Lord has sharpened me to be content in plenty and in need. Prior to this move, we fell into the need category.. The Lord has surely blessed our family since moving us here. We live in a lovely home; have met some wonderful people; my husband has a good job; our finances are stable. We have no outward needs. Yet, I want more.
I found myself mid-workout last week just sitting there on the bench with dumbbell in hand, thinking, "is this it, Lord?". Is this our life moving forward? We are not in need, yet here I sit in a fitness center where I am not completely comfortable. I seemed to do better in the run-down YMCA for some reason. I found myself sitting by the pool with our children looking around and thinking, "I am not like these ladies. Our kids are not like theirs"...and rather thankful for that given what makes us different. (At least on the outward, what you can learn from hearing a mother talk to her young kids kind of way.) I want more relationships than what this offers.
Our kids start preschool next week. I am not 100% thrilled with the program. We have them there because we know it will prepare them for the magnet school test they will have to take before entering kindergarten. I do not have any confidence in the elementary school up the road, so I want to be sure they get into the magnet school. It is nowhere near our home and will be wholly inconvenient to have them there. I want better education for our children, not some "test and hope you get picked" education.
We attend a nice church. It is a bit overwhelming for us because it is so large. Here we found you go with the denomination that feels the least like a denomination. Non-denominational churches are few here. We had to allow ourselves to settle knowing we will not find what we really seek in a church here. The teaching at this church, while rarely piercing, has indeed convicted us to make some changes to our lives. Our kids are being well fed there. There are ample mission opportunities. We are serving and tithing. Yet, our real gifts are still hidden because of its size. My heart hurts to know the Lord gave my husband an amazing voice that will more than likely not get used because worship is a production and the cast is already set. We are committed to our Lord no matter our place of worship. It is not a complaint, just a reality that we settled and that just does not seem good enough. I fear we could become lukewarm Christians and not even realize it.
We have been here nearly two years and my husband has not one friend. I have a few but they are slow relationships to build upon. (I am very thankful for those few!) It is difficult to feel like relationships are at an arms length. It is difficult to know that in a few weeks football season will begin and my husband will be stuck with just me to watch the game. We are not from here and we are not in the military so we fall into some odd social zone. I want friends for us.
I miss family being around the corner. We left my family to move to my husband's family initially. Those first few months were tough (tough!) as we all got to know each other. Getting to develop such a relationship with my mother-in-law, and our kids to build a foundation with their grandmother, was worth every tough day. Of course, I miss my side of the family. I sometimes feel like we are wasting time being in a place with no family. Our kids deserve to know their extended family more than the occasional visit and phone calls.
There are things the Lord has put on us that will be our mission no matter where He has us - adopt, pay off our debt, serve Him in any way He asks. We were guns-a-blazin' with adoption and then felt the Lord pause us.We are moving full steam ahead with our debt pay-off. He has blessed that path so far. We are doing what we can to serve Common Ground (it feels like we should be doing more, but until nap time is not needed, I am limited).
Maybe the Lord just wants us to focus on these things and let the rest fall as it may?
But still, I want more. More of what only God can provide.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Channeling my inner "Sandy".
As a housewife my job is to keep our home clean. If you came to our home, I think you would say it looks neat and clean, but the truth is, I have been horribly lazy in the actual cleaning department. I have gotten into the "wipe it down" habit. You know, where you just kind of wipe everything down as you go, sweep every couple of days and keep up with the laundry, but do not bust out the mop and really clean the house.
When I was recovering from surgery, out of necessity, I hired a wonderful college student named Sandy to clean the house. Wow! It was the best $50 spent. She cleaned like I never have! Grant walked in with amazement with how clean the home was after Sandy had been here. I found ways to work our monthly budget to have her come back again. Then the thoughts of, can we stretch things to have her come weekly, or bi-monthly? After all, she is a college student and needs the money. It will not just to help me, but really help her, right? Mind you, I am healed from surgery. I can hold my own in the gym again, so I can certainly hold a mop.
Then, reality hit that with a second preschool tuition being added to our monthly budget, spending money on such a luxury is just not possible. I kind of got a little pouty about it.
Today, after my husband had his quiet time, we talked about his own encouragement from the Lord to remember that we work for Him. Grant may have a boss to whom he is responsible, but his daily tasks are ultimately accountable to the Lord. It was with those words that I realized I had to change my outlook on, of all thing, cleaning our home.
What if I approached keeping this home clean as though I am doing it for the Lord first, and then my husband? In reality, this is Jesus' home. He provides it. He resides here. He allows me to stay home with our children and in turn, has made me responsible for keeping up with it. So, why am I trying to put my responsibility onto someone else? Why am I letting another woman's work please my husband?
Today, I looked at housecleaning in the way, I assume, Sandy does. She comes and works for a few hours earning money for her hard word. It was not cumbersome. It became rewarding as the house is sparkling. When Grant gets home tonight he will be thrilled. There really is something great about walking into a clean home after a very long week at work.
Today, I cleaned like Sandy. And, it felt great!
When I was recovering from surgery, out of necessity, I hired a wonderful college student named Sandy to clean the house. Wow! It was the best $50 spent. She cleaned like I never have! Grant walked in with amazement with how clean the home was after Sandy had been here. I found ways to work our monthly budget to have her come back again. Then the thoughts of, can we stretch things to have her come weekly, or bi-monthly? After all, she is a college student and needs the money. It will not just to help me, but really help her, right? Mind you, I am healed from surgery. I can hold my own in the gym again, so I can certainly hold a mop.
Then, reality hit that with a second preschool tuition being added to our monthly budget, spending money on such a luxury is just not possible. I kind of got a little pouty about it.
Today, after my husband had his quiet time, we talked about his own encouragement from the Lord to remember that we work for Him. Grant may have a boss to whom he is responsible, but his daily tasks are ultimately accountable to the Lord. It was with those words that I realized I had to change my outlook on, of all thing, cleaning our home.
What if I approached keeping this home clean as though I am doing it for the Lord first, and then my husband? In reality, this is Jesus' home. He provides it. He resides here. He allows me to stay home with our children and in turn, has made me responsible for keeping up with it. So, why am I trying to put my responsibility onto someone else? Why am I letting another woman's work please my husband?
Today, I looked at housecleaning in the way, I assume, Sandy does. She comes and works for a few hours earning money for her hard word. It was not cumbersome. It became rewarding as the house is sparkling. When Grant gets home tonight he will be thrilled. There really is something great about walking into a clean home after a very long week at work.
Today, I cleaned like Sandy. And, it felt great!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)