Menu Plan Monday

Monday: Left over Sausage/corn and rice dish for folks. (see other post on wen. for recipe)
Left over bow ties and sauce for the kids.

Tuesday: Pot Roast with root veggies of carrot, parsnip and onion. Peas.

Wednesday: Sated Salmon steaks, grapes and apples. Divine :) eggs

Thursday: Chicken and Susi rice with herbs de' France. Pickled beets, corn or peas.

Friday: Taco's with home ground beef, lettuces, ?tomatoes (depending on the quality of a good find), cheese for Dad and Dove.
Home made pinto beans. Burritos as well.

Saturday: Hot Dogs, oranges, salad with home made croûtons.
Left overs

Sunday: Bacon and eggs with blueberry pancakes from millet flour.

Muffins, Egg and sausage sandwiches, grapes, oranges, apples pretzels, and other snacks.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my Window...The sun is HOT! There is a morning dove cooing and calling me to come and fill the empty feeder. The weeds in the garden plot show that it is hot summer here and things go there own way. The lawn is mowed and strains to stay green in the 115* heat wave we have had over the last few days.

I am thinking...I wonder if it is normal to get so sleepy. I am tired so often. Perhaps it is 100+ heat at 9a.m. I had to take a nap after I got back with the kids and fell asleep so hard that when the phone rang with a friend following up to come over for a play date I just had to decline it. I eat lunch and then fall asleep and can not wake up. I just couldn't even figure out were I was for a few moments.

I am thankful for...The kids playing favorably and being helpful to each other. I am glad that I have an activity outside of the house today. One that is indoors so as to keep them cooler.

From the kitchen...I baked cookies for my husband at 6 a.m. this morning and it smells of allspice and clove, cinnamon and home. I set up all the ingredients last night. When I got started this morning I just put it all into the mixer and began as I fixed lunches. The box of oranges on the counter call to me. The table filled with craft stuff from the kids. The dishes done except the cookie sheets and mixing bowl. The dishwasher was run earlier.

I am wearing...A light blue shirt that matches the workout carpi's that are navy with a stripe of the light blue and white down the outside legs. Lotion on my feet and black ankle socks and black running shoes. My hair is full and down.

I am reading...My screen. I had read a bit of bead instructions and hubby reads the "money makeover book" at night while I work on my beading

I am hoping...An end to our house sell.

One of my favorite things...are oranges on a hot summer day!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...Meals, the kids have basket ball camp at church from 10-noon. Friday we go see the grand opening of the new Lego store. The kids help to build a giant 10 ft r2d2. It sounds like a fun time. We will pack a lunch and carpool with a friend.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

I am working on this at night as Beloved reads the total money makeover (by Dave Ramsey) out loud to me.


Go visit "The Simple Woman" to join in.
NOW! It is YOUR turn to share YOUR daybook. BUT IF YOU ARE TAKING PART FOR THE FIRST TIME... PLEASE GO here FIRST FOR THE GUIDELINES BEFORE SIGNING Mister Linky! Please remind anyone finding this idea from your personal blog, to make sure to give credit and come sign my Mister Linky first before taking part.

Please remember those who are flooded,and the effects that will becoming our way.

How great a hardship so many are suffering across the mid-section of our country. So many homes and crops are destroyed. Many are on pens and needles for today and on Wednesday the rivers will crest and more may be lost. They have lost homes and all the possessions of lives spent. Some lives have even been lost. Farms are swallowed up in this flooding. Many crops are totally lost.

It is our career that calls us to be aware of how these things will effect our budgets and families as well.
Educate yourself on the effects of social events.
Please also be aware that food prices will be effected so stock up on corn.
Many of the fields for ethinol and feed corn have also been hit.
These effects are not commonly felt for a few weeks so be ahead of the crowd.

I got this at Costco and put up two of them in the deep freeze.
It is much better to keep the freezer full. It uses less electricity.
In summer this is very important, even if you just make ice and bag it. The insulation of a full freezer will also protect you if a power outage hits. It keeps itself colder longer. I do freeze ice when I have extra it really is nice to have if guests arrive and the kids have used up the ice.

Oatmeal is also going to shoot up due to Quaker's being flooded.

These just came out of the oven.
Beloved eats three every morning.
I made these with millet,flax, soy flours and oats of course.

This is our favorite rice as you can see it comes from a region that has been effected by so much disaster and unease. It will soon become harder and harder to come by.

When you stock up in such large quantities be sure that your family can use it up by the date suggested. Now some things like grain stored in a freezer can keep longer.
India has also suffered flooding and loss.
It is said that due to the tsunami it will be a world wide rice shortage for crops are gone on some of the highest yeilding lands.

I love these bags for they are zippered and make a great recyclable. They will use us space well for they are secure for my pantry.

The rice prices have shot up already from $11. a bag for my basmati rice to $17+ in just a couple of weeks.

Soy crops have been hit hard as well, so if your family uses any of these as staples you may want to consider to put up a few weeks extra supply now. For later the costs on these items will be increasing. If you get a 5% on savings consider your savings if these things go up more than 5% which is very likely.
REMEMBER TO CHECK DATES
You save nothing if they expire before you use them.

Idiot’s Dishcloth

Here are the instructions to make the dishcloth that I make. I thought you may want to put it on your blog for those who may want to make them. Shirley

Idiot’s Dishcloth

Use a needle sized 6 - 9.
co4, k 1 row
Next row, k2 inc in next st, k1
Next row, k2,yo,k to end of row
Repeat the k2, yo, k until you have 45sts on the needle
Next row, k1, k2Tog, yo, k2Tog, k to end of row
Continue to do this , decreasing each row until 5 stitches are left. Then, k2, k2Tog, k1.
Bind off the 4 sts.

Lady Love Progresses

Today was a full day.
I picked up my neighbor and dropped the kids off at a good friends. I took this woman to her CT appointment. She was so frail and petite for a woman of 43. She is so scared that she is losing her life. Her blood pressure dropped 40 points upon standing when she was at her other appointment and it was already very low.
She and I stopped to get a little fast food when she was done for it was IV and she had fasted.
We spoke of God respecting the wills of others and the way it is
(how I believe)
that once we get out from under the will of others we can change our lives.
She felt she must have done something terribly wrong in her
"past life"
to deserve such health.
I shared my experience, strength and hope.
I told her that what was meant for our harm made us into people that can have a greater ability and perhaps capacity to have compassion on and for others.
We have walked in the shoes and understand more deeply.
Just throwing seed.
Please pray for her eternity.
We went to get the kids and Dash saw the cup and bemoaned the privileged of the fast food (I do not go often). She called her 15 yr old at home and we went and got him and took all of them to the fast food. She treated my kids to a kids meal.
Cool thing... the toy was for a movie "Water horse", but the meals came with some other toy. The children returned them with thanks and No thanks. The woman returned to our table where she tore apart the display and gave the children the very toy each one desired. Another good choice it goes well for you opportunity!
I was pleased that the kids turned down something they really did not want.
They are satiated.

We had a family movie night of a DVD series "the young Indiana Jones". We are taking a break form the "Walton's" while we await the 7th season purchase. We thought a change was in order.
Just before the show the phone rang We have 2 showings tomorrow!
We had all but given up.
So I cleaned a bit and have minor chores tomorrow.
Wow! It still could sell and we would be that closer to being debt free.
Moving???????in the summer!!!!!!!!!!!!
GOD's Will Be done.
I really do not want to have to enter the work force. I have waited so many years for these two kids. I really love being a school room mom. I attend all field trips and such. I would so miss that.
Everyone in to bed so I will close.
Good night.
Thank you for your prayers for my family and the sell of our home.
If we sell... the purchase of the next home as well.
Rejoice with us for we are in the palm of HIS hand.
No matter what the future brings.
To be debt free.....:)
Our hearts desire.

A walk in the Clouds...

"Dash...would you like to go around the block one more time?" I asked

"Oh, Yes!...I like being with my mom"...He said.

I'm walking on sunshine,
and don't it feel good!

When we arrived back at the house this morning just before 6 a.m. I was so warmed and charmed by the intelligent company of my son that I was invigorated into a new day in the life. This is such a life.
Dash and I talked about the different types of plants and how the Gait of our walk was faster on the second lap because we passed a neighbor for the second time farther down the street. He is such a delightful kid to be with. He is so inquisitive, and I just love sharing knowledge with him. I remember praying telling God years ago how it just was hard to have knowledge that know one seemed to want. Now days this old world wisdom that is so lacking can make or break a family.
I spoke to the mourning dove, Yes I talk to birds and they do respond. Dash was so cute he said..."I don't know how to speak to the birds yet"...
Beloved and I are both exercising our bodies now. This Dave Ramsey stuff about "us" being our own problem, our own biggest enemy is really changing our behavior. We are owning our own stuff (sin=separation from God=shame to face our self and Him cause ya know your making bad choices).
When we returned we set up the day and the lunches for the hubby and the kids. The children have a play date today. I received a call to help that woman who I hemmed the pants for...She has a medical appointment and a good friend will cover the kids for me so I can be there for her.
She is 43 and dieing of a heart defect. I am loving on her and hope to support her in knowing Gods love for her.
Dash and I fed the dogs, while I did my chores.
Beloved came in and lovingly , supportively reminded me to reduce my food intake. It was a strange difference of emote. I really appreciated that he cared enough to respectfully say something. He cared. He said " only eat when your blood sugar gets low or when you are really truly hungry. I forget to care for myself. He lovingly reminded me.
So hungry from my walk I actually made myself a nice little breakfast when I cooked Dash's eggs.
I remembered that the eating for my blood type (even though it can be a hassle) really helped me feel good.
There's my boy's!

We are becoming more open with each other and not so hesitant to speak up. The old me would of been offended or hurt. You know I needed someone to care and not try to control but to support me in caring too.
I used the medication dispenser last week and I only missed one dose. Dash said that I was much more even and did not get angry."

I restocked it this morning.

I have been useing these great wash cloths that my Mother-in-love made us.
The cotton fibers are strong and so good as Kitchen clothes I just love then. They stack flat for storage too. Those of you who know how to crochet' can save a bundle on kitchen clothes. Make some for others who don't have the skill they make great gifts.

My biological Sister had a exploritory knee surgery yesterday. She just found out that at 49 her knee looks like a 80 year olds knee. She is going to have to have a total knee replacement.
Made me think!
My mother had to have both of her knees replaced due to hereditary degenerative artheritis. Reality is I need to get this weight down and show this body some mercy before it is too late.
I wish I would of stuck with my weight loss management. Beloved encouraged me that today is a new day. We talked last night about my wound of not caring about myself. That I do not Matter to me. We are going to pray about that and I will be making more effort to heal that wound of heart.

Aloha Friday

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link below over at "Island Life". Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

My Question...?

Do you pack lunches for yourself or your spouse?
If so what do you pack?

Thursday Thirteen

1. My Golden , Rena is feeling better. YA! I was really concerned she might be getting ready to depart from us. She is happy this morning and ate her kibbles and was perky.

2. Lunch is made for my love and he will be off to work in a few moments. The kids are still asleep and both dogs have eaten. I stayed up last night until 1 am. silly girl.
3. My Daughter is turning 11. I have a child who wants a "littlest Pet shop party" , at 11 years of age.
4. Her friend is learning to play "Happy Birthday" for her on his guitar, he has been studying for six months. We are all so proud of him for all of his hard work. Dove is so looking forward to his gift of music. I think that is just precious.
5. I got the kids each a $2. activity book last night and they are working the puzzles, coloring the pictures and exercising the fine motor skills.
6. The big ironing board is in the family room today. I am looking forward to ironing several cotton shirts for my darling. It was yesteryear that once found all of his shirts ironed weekly.

The lack of belongings is actually allowing me to catch up some.

7. I found something wonderful to add to my coffee.

I know it is not that coffee is the best thing for me but... My medication leaves me too sleepy! I have gotten back on the coffee just so I can function and get things done. At times it is like I am tranquilized. The depression is getting much better and the migraines have improved as well. I still get the electric shocking on my skull dome. I am doing mental exercises of games and puzzles to help my memory issues. Brain injury is a challenging problem that so many face. I am so blessed to do so well.
8. Dash will be seeing a neurologist soon for his needs.
9. Dove is doing very well in her new braces. Her surgery is the 7th of July and her birthday is the 20th. I have the consult on the 25th of June. The $$$ ??? well... God must provide. I am still awaiting my tax refund and the incentive check. It will probably come that day :)
10. Mr Uncommon will get his new crown soon, maybe next week.
11. My surgery for the dental implant is in August after the kids go back to school.
12. I love all of you even you who are a stranger to me, for the numbers on the side are a reminder that we are all only a few degrees apart. We all matter to each other in the greater story. This is truly a wonderful world even with all the hardships.
13. Baby Powder for ants. Non toxic. Tip I got yesterday on the "works for me" answered my quest for a solve besides borax.

Thankful Thursday

Visit others Here

I have admired how my Abba Pappa God has such a all knowing perspective.
The way that all the journey is clear when I look over my shoulder and watch it all play out. Even as I loose perspective and focus on other than His constant provision, He still is there.
Before the foundations of time each one of us has been known.
How delighted I am in seeing the fruit of my character (the good parts) reflected in the children and the relationship they have with each other, and with me. Asking a simple request being met with a soft loving "yes Momma". No crushed spirits to be controlled from without, but a self governing that is maturing into a life that trumpets " it is going well for them".
How very delightful. The desired of the heart being molded into choice. Those choices deliberate and significant to a life that is pleasing to the self and to the maker of all. It is watching gravity in the purest form Beautifully grafted into a dance with God.

With a 2 weeks left on the contract to sell this house, I am left wondering. Wondering the outcomes that differ and the price, and provisions to successfully accomplish our dreams and goals.
I find myself just marveling at the wonder of my mate and I being ONE, in agreement and whole heartedly desiring the same goal. What a wonder and a marvel. I know few who get this treasure, even in a Christian circle and I am honored and stand teared up with gratitude.

I see so many who eat their meals in sorrow until they sink back into the dust from whence they came.
I am so grateful that I can hear God calling out my name.

Weeping with seeing the sorrow and loss all around me reflected in broken lives, wounded hearts and lonely souls.
I want for them what I am so pleased to know.
I pray that the Love that is for them, and around them be known to them. That it be intimately known.
Standing in the gap with intercession, compassion. Knowing how desperate I would be if I was alone.

Works for Me Wedensday

The Imagination Box

My kids love this game. They enter a large box and pretend.
Yes they just pretend.
I am told that they close their eyes. If they are rock climbing they make sound effects to the game.
Mountain Climbing Adventures
Motorcycle Adventure
Exciting adventures of the mummy tomb. I am told are just a few of the thrilling things that they imagine. Wow, I think I could use a little of that.

Wordless Wedensday

A very busy, very early morning. Dash to the clinic.

Early morning wake up... Got Beloveds lunch made and then an ice chest of food for the kids.
I had a 8:15 ENT appointment for Dash Hawk in the city today.
This is the replacement appointment for the anomaly problems I tried to address two months ago.
I ran into a wall of obstacle's trying to get his needs met, the Neuro balance testing that was a referral from the last ENT at the clinic fell through.
I got into the ENT that did the surgery when Dash first came home from Russia.
He has given me a referral to get dash into a Neurologist.
Dash may be having Vestibular migraines.
I took him off the Zertec and I did well to do so. The ENT said he was clear and looking good.
Dash has been allowed to not use his hearing aids at home and his speech is deteriorating a bit. So I need to push using them again. He can hear well enough at home it is at school and in crowds that he NEEDS to use them. I am trying to be kind and let him go with out at home but I think it is back firring a bit.

I had to wake these two up at 6:30 and load them straight into the car. I had already loaded juices, waters and the ice chest of lunch supplies. I grabbed breakfast cookies for them.
I hate to wake a sleeping child.
They got right up and dressed grabbed the blankets and went to the car. Good attitudes make this so much easier.
We made real good time on the freeway, I get to use the HOV (high occupant vehicles) lane and it really moved fast. We arrived down town with enough time to stop by the Phoenix Children's Hospital. I love the cafeteria there. Some Hospitals are really wonderful and cheep to purchase well made food. I was able to get Dash some scrambled egg (without milk) and two fat sausages and Dove a yogurt and a bagel. I got them two donuts for them also, all for $5.50.
I did not get anything for myself due to just short time.
As I went to set the children down to eat, Dove needed to go to the potty.
so I packed it all up and gave each kid the a rest room break. We loaded into the car and went onto St. Joe's to attend the clinic.
After the appointment we had breakfast at the snack area.
The kids are so amazing. Dove noticed that I had not purchased for myself ...without a word she handed me some of her bagel ad dash gave me a sausage. These kids are so thoughtful and sweet.

So recap...
Dash needs to get into a neurologist. Due to his 8th nerve , nerve damage he my be having vestibular migraines. He is off the Zertec and sinus is clear no ear infections.
They really wanted to come home.
So here we are.
There is no place like home:)

Lady Love Project

This is what I have accomplished today.
Oh what fun!
I will call her "Lady Love"

Tackle It Tuesday

Beloved and I are Tackling our budget and finical life.
As I have mentioned before we are studying Dave Ramsey.
This is a life changing effort to change the way we view our money in efforts to become TOTALLY debt free one day.
It is also addressing the "fat" of life all around ad inspired Beloved to go for a run last night, witch inspired me to awaken at 5:30 and walk Willy twice around the block.
Beloved is reading this book aloud to me while I bead in the evenings (after he reads the children to bed).
It is so wonderful to be on the same page together.
If our home does not sell we are still going to keep our goals of becoming debt free.
It will be a lot of hard work but the goal...The goal of owing no man except to love him is so deeply desired by both of us.
I am so blessed that he and I see eye to eye on this.
We only have our mortgage. In that we are very blessed. We have always used credit carefully and sparingly. We are going to do this study together and see if we can stay here. If... we can make a way.
I may get employment in the fall while the kids are in school. This will have a twofold effect for I have not enough employment hours to get Medicare when I am of age. I think I will be doing some type of elder care. Companionship type service. I think I would excel at it.
My task to prepare to go into the job market.
My resume will need updating. I have not worked outside the home for 10 + years now.
I will need to inventory the estate to see what needs to be accomplished
I need to do the Master Address list updating.

I got this cookbook at the library.
Dove is off now to go read it in her room.
I made a dish last night from it.

Little Dove has sensory integration dysfunction and has NEVER liked soft foods. She gagged on them badly as an infant. It took many , many months to get her able to get her to swallow soft foods.
Now with braces she is forced into a soft foods diet. Poor thing is really challenged.
I told her to look through the book and see if there is anything she might like me to make for her.
My task...to help her get a diet of soft foods that she likes and will tolerate.
Her order...Vanilla milk shake and lemon pudding (funny I have some lemon pudding mix for tofu).

Breakfasts for the kids
lunch for the kids
Prepare for the evening meal
I have some laundry and my beading too:)
Crafts with the kids.
Dung duty
Lawn needs mowed (Beloveds task, but I ready the yard)
Entry plants need water
Dogs need to be brushed and bathed soon