Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Lights on the square
This is how they decorate the square here.
Here is another view.
Its really hard to catch the effect.
I wish we had gotten a better pix of the gazebo. Its amazing. What is really cool is that its something like fifty some degrees outside and you can walk around the square without freezing to death.Tips
•Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.
•Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!
•Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating. Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.
•Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.
•To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up. (on a healthier note...try adding water)
•For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty frosting.
•Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic, and at the end of the recipe if you want a stronger taste of garlic.
•Leftover snickers bars from Halloween make a delicious dessert. Simply chop them up with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummy!
•Reheat Pizza Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.
•Easy Deviled Eggs: Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done easy clean up.
•Expanding Frosting: When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.
•Reheating refrigerated bread: To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.
•Newspaper weeds away: Plant your plants in the ground, work the nutrients in your soil. Then wet newspapers, put layers around the plants overlapping as you go, cover with mulch, and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic they will not get through wet newspapers.
•Broken Glass: Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.
•No More Mosquitoes: Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.
•To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it. (Wonder if this works with deer? Sure gonna give it a try)
•Flexible vacuum: To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.
•Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip to eliminate static cling. It works! Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and ... Ta DA! ... Static is gone.
•Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water when cooking. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, for example) and watch how easily it comes right out.
•De-fog your windshield: Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!
•Re-opening envelopes: If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Voila! It unseals easily.
•Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
•Goodbye Fruit Flies: To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2' with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!
•Get Rid of Ants with cornmeal. Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!
•Wash your dryer filter: Dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh in your filter. You can't SEE the film, but it's there. It's what is in the dryer sheets to make your clothes soft and static free, and smell good. Apparently that stuff builds up on your clothes and on your lint screen. This is what causes dryer units to potentially burn your house down with it! The best way to keep your dryer working for a long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or other brush) at least every six months.
source: http://simple-homemaking.blogspot.com/2011/11/tip-of-week_29.html
•Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!
•Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating. Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.
•Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.
•To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up. (on a healthier note...try adding water)
•For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty frosting.
•Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic, and at the end of the recipe if you want a stronger taste of garlic.
•Leftover snickers bars from Halloween make a delicious dessert. Simply chop them up with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummy!
•Reheat Pizza Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.
•Easy Deviled Eggs: Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done easy clean up.
•Expanding Frosting: When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.
•Reheating refrigerated bread: To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.
•Newspaper weeds away: Plant your plants in the ground, work the nutrients in your soil. Then wet newspapers, put layers around the plants overlapping as you go, cover with mulch, and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic they will not get through wet newspapers.
•Broken Glass: Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.
•No More Mosquitoes: Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.
•To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it. (Wonder if this works with deer? Sure gonna give it a try)
•Flexible vacuum: To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.
•Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip to eliminate static cling. It works! Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and ... Ta DA! ... Static is gone.
•Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water when cooking. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, for example) and watch how easily it comes right out.
•De-fog your windshield: Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!
•Re-opening envelopes: If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Voila! It unseals easily.
•Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
•Goodbye Fruit Flies: To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2' with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!
•Get Rid of Ants with cornmeal. Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!
•Wash your dryer filter: Dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh in your filter. You can't SEE the film, but it's there. It's what is in the dryer sheets to make your clothes soft and static free, and smell good. Apparently that stuff builds up on your clothes and on your lint screen. This is what causes dryer units to potentially burn your house down with it! The best way to keep your dryer working for a long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or other brush) at least every six months.
source: http://simple-homemaking.blogspot.com/2011/11/tip-of-week_29.html
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Yolanda's poor man's pecan pie
My friend Yolanda posted this recipe on her blog and I asked her if I could share it on mine. She was happy to share the recipe since it was given to her by a dear friend of hers. The picture is the pies Yolanda made.You can read Yolanda's blog here: http://simplyhomemaking60.blogspot.com/
Oatmeal Pie - 1 pie (9 inch)
Pie filling -
2/3 cup butter
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
2/3 cup quick rolled oats
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
a pinch of salt
Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well with an electric mixer. Pour it into a prepared, Unbaked pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes. Cool completely. It does not have to be refrigerated. I've never frozen one, so I have no idea if it will freeze well.
Pie crust - 1 pie shell
1 1/4 cups white flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup cold lard
cold milk
Combine flour and salt. Cut in the lard until crumbly. Gradually add the cold milk until the dough holds together well enough to roll out easily. Gather it together on a flour surface into a nice ball and then flatten it and roll it out. Place in the pie pan. Flute the edges
Pie filling -
2/3 cup butter
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
2/3 cup quick rolled oats
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
a pinch of salt
Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well with an electric mixer. Pour it into a prepared, Unbaked pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes. Cool completely. It does not have to be refrigerated. I've never frozen one, so I have no idea if it will freeze well.
Pie crust - 1 pie shell
1 1/4 cups white flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup cold lard
cold milk
Combine flour and salt. Cut in the lard until crumbly. Gradually add the cold milk until the dough holds together well enough to roll out easily. Gather it together on a flour surface into a nice ball and then flatten it and roll it out. Place in the pie pan. Flute the edges
Spices that are good for your health
By Kerri-Ann Jennings, M.S., R.D., Associate Nutrition Editor at EatingWell Magazine
As a registered dietitian and associate nutrition editor at EatingWell Magazine, I know that herbs and spices do more than simply add flavor to food. They let you cut down on some less-healthy ingredients, such as salt, added sugars and saturated fat, and some have inherent health benefits, many of which Joyce Hendley reported on for EatingWell Magazine.
Modern science is beginning to uncover the ultimate power of spices and herbs, as weapons against illnesses from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. "We're now starting to see a scientific basis for why people have been using spices medicinally for thousands of years," says Bharat Aggarwal, Ph.D., professor at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and author of Healing Spices (Sterling, 2011).
Aggarwal notes that in his native India, where spices tend to be used by the handful, incidence of diet-related diseases like heart disease and cancer have long been low. But when Indians move away and adopt more Westernized eating patterns, their rates of those diseases rise. While researchers usually blame the meatier, fattier nature of Western diets, Aggarwal and other experts believe that herbs and spices-or more precisely, the lack of them-are also an important piece of the dietary puzzle. "When Indians eat more Westernized foods, they're getting much fewer spices than their traditional diet contains," he explains. "They lose the protection those spices are conveying."
While science has yet to show that any spice cures disease, there's compelling evidence that several may help manage some chronic conditions (though it's always smart to talk with your doctor). What's not to love? Here we've gathered eight of the healthiest spices and herbs enjoyed around the world.
Chile Peppers
May help: Boost metabolism.
Chile peppers add a much-appreciated heat to chilly-weather dishes, and they can also give a boost to your metabolism. Thank capsaicin, the compound that gives fresh chiles, and spices including cayenne and chipotle, their kick. Studies show that capsaicin can increase the body's metabolic rate (causing one to burn more calories) and may stimulate brain chemicals that help us feel less hungry. In fact, one study found that people ate 16 percent fewer calories at a meal if they'd sipped a hot-pepper-spiked tomato juice (vs. plain tomato juice) half an hour earlier. Recent research found that capsinoids, similar but gentler chemicals found in milder chile hybrids, have the same effects-so even tamer sweet paprika packs a healthy punch. Capsaicin may also lower risk of ulcers by boosting the ability of stomach cells to resist infection by ulcer-causing bacteria and help the heart by keeping "bad" LDL cholesterol from turning into a more lethal, artery-clogging form.
Don't Miss: Foods That Blast Belly Fat
Ginger
May help: Soothe an upset stomach, fight arthritis pain.
Ginger has a well-deserved reputation for relieving an unsettled stomach. Studies show ginger extracts can help reduce nausea caused by morning sickness or following surgery or chemotherapy, though it's less effective for motion sickness. But ginger is also packed with inflammation-fighting compounds, such as gingerols, which some experts believe may hold promise in fighting some cancers and may reduce the aches of osteoarthritis and soothe sore muscles. In a recent study, people who took ginger capsules daily for 11 days reported 25 percent less muscle pain when they performed exercises designed to strain their muscles (compared with a similar group taking placebo capsules). Another study found that ginger-extract injections helped relieve osteoarthritis pain of the knee.
Must-Read: 5 Foods That Fight Pain Naturally
Cinnamon
May help: Stabilize blood sugar.
A few studies suggest that adding cinnamon to food-up to a teaspoon a day, usually given in capsule form-might help people with type 2 diabetes better control their blood sugar, by lowering post-meal blood-sugar spikes. Other studies suggest the effects are limited at best.
Turmeric
May help: Quell inflammation, inhibit tumors.
Turmeric, the goldenrod-colored spice, is used in India to help wounds heal (it's applied as a paste); it's also made into a tea to relieve colds and respiratory problems. Modern medicine confirms some solid-gold health benefits as well; most are associated with curcumin, a compound in turmeric that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has been shown to help relieve pain of arthritis, injuries and dental procedures; it's also being studied for its potential in managing heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Researcher Bharat Aggarwal is bullish on curcumin's potential as a cancer treatment, particularly in colon, prostate and breast cancers; preliminary studies have found that curcumin can inhibit tumor cell growth and suppress enzymes that activate carcinogens.
Saffron
May help: Lift your mood.
Saffron has long been used in traditional Persian medicine as a mood lifter, usually steeped into a medicinal tea or used to prepare rice. Research from Iran's Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital at Tehran University of Medical Sciences has found that saffron may help to relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and depression. In one study, 75% of women with PMS who were given saffron capsules daily reported that their PMS symptoms (such as mood swings and depression) declined by at least half, compared with only 8 percent of women who didn't take saffron.
Must-Read: 4 Foods to Boost Your Mood
Parsley
May help: Inhibit breast cancer-cell growth.
University of Missouri scientists found that this herb can actually inhibit breast cancer-cell growth, reported Holly Pevzner in the September/October 2011 issue of EatingWell Magazine. In the study, animals that were given apigenin, a compound abundant in parsley (and in celery), boosted their resistance to developing cancerous tumors. Experts recommend adding a couple pinches of minced fresh parsley to your dishes daily.
Sage
May help: Preserve memory, soothe sore throats.
Herbalists recommend sipping sage tea for upset stomachs and sore throats, a remedy supported by one study that found spraying sore throats with a sage solution gave effective pain relief. And preliminary research suggests the herb may improve some symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease by preventing a key enzyme from destroying acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory and learning. In another study, college students who took sage extracts in capsule form performed significantly better on memory tests, and their moods improved.
Related: 5 Foods to Help Ward Off Colds
Rosemary
May help: Enhance mental focus, fight foodborne bacteria.
One recent study found that people performed better on memory and alertness tests when mists of aromatic rosemary oil were piped into their study cubicles. Rosemary is often used in marinades for meats and poultry, and there's scientific wisdom behind that tradition: rosmarinic acid and other antioxidant compounds in the herb fight bacteria and prevent meat from spoiling, and may even make cooked meats healthier. In March 2010, Kansas State University researchers reported that adding rosemary extracts to ground beef helped prevent the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs)-cancer-causing compounds produced when meats are grilled, broiled or fried.
Don't Miss: Drink This to Cure a Headache & 4 More Home Remedies From Your Kitchen
What are your favorite herbs and spices?
By Kerri-Ann Jennings
Kerri-Ann, a registered dietitian, is the associate editor of nutrition for EatingWell magazine, where she puts her master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University to work writing and editing news about nutrition, health and food trends. In her free time, Kerri-Ann likes to practice yoga, hike, bake and paint.
As a registered dietitian and associate nutrition editor at EatingWell Magazine, I know that herbs and spices do more than simply add flavor to food. They let you cut down on some less-healthy ingredients, such as salt, added sugars and saturated fat, and some have inherent health benefits, many of which Joyce Hendley reported on for EatingWell Magazine.
Modern science is beginning to uncover the ultimate power of spices and herbs, as weapons against illnesses from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. "We're now starting to see a scientific basis for why people have been using spices medicinally for thousands of years," says Bharat Aggarwal, Ph.D., professor at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and author of Healing Spices (Sterling, 2011).
Aggarwal notes that in his native India, where spices tend to be used by the handful, incidence of diet-related diseases like heart disease and cancer have long been low. But when Indians move away and adopt more Westernized eating patterns, their rates of those diseases rise. While researchers usually blame the meatier, fattier nature of Western diets, Aggarwal and other experts believe that herbs and spices-or more precisely, the lack of them-are also an important piece of the dietary puzzle. "When Indians eat more Westernized foods, they're getting much fewer spices than their traditional diet contains," he explains. "They lose the protection those spices are conveying."
While science has yet to show that any spice cures disease, there's compelling evidence that several may help manage some chronic conditions (though it's always smart to talk with your doctor). What's not to love? Here we've gathered eight of the healthiest spices and herbs enjoyed around the world.
Chile Peppers
May help: Boost metabolism.
Chile peppers add a much-appreciated heat to chilly-weather dishes, and they can also give a boost to your metabolism. Thank capsaicin, the compound that gives fresh chiles, and spices including cayenne and chipotle, their kick. Studies show that capsaicin can increase the body's metabolic rate (causing one to burn more calories) and may stimulate brain chemicals that help us feel less hungry. In fact, one study found that people ate 16 percent fewer calories at a meal if they'd sipped a hot-pepper-spiked tomato juice (vs. plain tomato juice) half an hour earlier. Recent research found that capsinoids, similar but gentler chemicals found in milder chile hybrids, have the same effects-so even tamer sweet paprika packs a healthy punch. Capsaicin may also lower risk of ulcers by boosting the ability of stomach cells to resist infection by ulcer-causing bacteria and help the heart by keeping "bad" LDL cholesterol from turning into a more lethal, artery-clogging form.
Don't Miss: Foods That Blast Belly Fat
Ginger
May help: Soothe an upset stomach, fight arthritis pain.
Ginger has a well-deserved reputation for relieving an unsettled stomach. Studies show ginger extracts can help reduce nausea caused by morning sickness or following surgery or chemotherapy, though it's less effective for motion sickness. But ginger is also packed with inflammation-fighting compounds, such as gingerols, which some experts believe may hold promise in fighting some cancers and may reduce the aches of osteoarthritis and soothe sore muscles. In a recent study, people who took ginger capsules daily for 11 days reported 25 percent less muscle pain when they performed exercises designed to strain their muscles (compared with a similar group taking placebo capsules). Another study found that ginger-extract injections helped relieve osteoarthritis pain of the knee.
Must-Read: 5 Foods That Fight Pain Naturally
Cinnamon
May help: Stabilize blood sugar.
A few studies suggest that adding cinnamon to food-up to a teaspoon a day, usually given in capsule form-might help people with type 2 diabetes better control their blood sugar, by lowering post-meal blood-sugar spikes. Other studies suggest the effects are limited at best.
Turmeric
May help: Quell inflammation, inhibit tumors.
Turmeric, the goldenrod-colored spice, is used in India to help wounds heal (it's applied as a paste); it's also made into a tea to relieve colds and respiratory problems. Modern medicine confirms some solid-gold health benefits as well; most are associated with curcumin, a compound in turmeric that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has been shown to help relieve pain of arthritis, injuries and dental procedures; it's also being studied for its potential in managing heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Researcher Bharat Aggarwal is bullish on curcumin's potential as a cancer treatment, particularly in colon, prostate and breast cancers; preliminary studies have found that curcumin can inhibit tumor cell growth and suppress enzymes that activate carcinogens.
Saffron
May help: Lift your mood.
Saffron has long been used in traditional Persian medicine as a mood lifter, usually steeped into a medicinal tea or used to prepare rice. Research from Iran's Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital at Tehran University of Medical Sciences has found that saffron may help to relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and depression. In one study, 75% of women with PMS who were given saffron capsules daily reported that their PMS symptoms (such as mood swings and depression) declined by at least half, compared with only 8 percent of women who didn't take saffron.
Must-Read: 4 Foods to Boost Your Mood
Parsley
May help: Inhibit breast cancer-cell growth.
University of Missouri scientists found that this herb can actually inhibit breast cancer-cell growth, reported Holly Pevzner in the September/October 2011 issue of EatingWell Magazine. In the study, animals that were given apigenin, a compound abundant in parsley (and in celery), boosted their resistance to developing cancerous tumors. Experts recommend adding a couple pinches of minced fresh parsley to your dishes daily.
Sage
May help: Preserve memory, soothe sore throats.
Herbalists recommend sipping sage tea for upset stomachs and sore throats, a remedy supported by one study that found spraying sore throats with a sage solution gave effective pain relief. And preliminary research suggests the herb may improve some symptoms of early Alzheimer's disease by preventing a key enzyme from destroying acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory and learning. In another study, college students who took sage extracts in capsule form performed significantly better on memory tests, and their moods improved.
Related: 5 Foods to Help Ward Off Colds
Rosemary
May help: Enhance mental focus, fight foodborne bacteria.
One recent study found that people performed better on memory and alertness tests when mists of aromatic rosemary oil were piped into their study cubicles. Rosemary is often used in marinades for meats and poultry, and there's scientific wisdom behind that tradition: rosmarinic acid and other antioxidant compounds in the herb fight bacteria and prevent meat from spoiling, and may even make cooked meats healthier. In March 2010, Kansas State University researchers reported that adding rosemary extracts to ground beef helped prevent the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs)-cancer-causing compounds produced when meats are grilled, broiled or fried.
Don't Miss: Drink This to Cure a Headache & 4 More Home Remedies From Your Kitchen
What are your favorite herbs and spices?
By Kerri-Ann Jennings
Kerri-Ann, a registered dietitian, is the associate editor of nutrition for EatingWell magazine, where she puts her master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University to work writing and editing news about nutrition, health and food trends. In her free time, Kerri-Ann likes to practice yoga, hike, bake and paint.
missionary update
From: "Brenda Lange"
Date: November 27, 2011 5:44:25 AM CST
Subject: Blog, Nov. 27, 2011
THE BLIND WOMAN SEES!
Two men are visiting us from South Africa who have the same vision as ours, “to see the gospel taken into remote areas”.
Clete and Wayne went with us to both the Pequaria and Nacacca churches this morning. (Naccaca’s 2nd Sunday)!
Over 60 people attended Naccaca this morning and Pequiare had 3 more adults receive Jesus today.
Jacinto came boldly in the door of the new Pequaria church with a big smile on his face, followed by his mother (who is unsaved at this point).
Surprises never cease where Jesus is involved.
God is really moving in Pequaria.
PEQUARIA CHURCH BUILDING IS FINISHED! Painted a beautiful royal blue, it now stands out as a beacon to all in the village with its shiny tin roof.
Our thanks to Coopersville Reformed Church, in Coopersville, MI for the gift that put a roof on this church.
A new couple came to our Pequaria church today because their 3 year son was almost dead from anemia, malnutrition, and worms. He basically has no blood and his whole body is swelling up. When asked why they hadn’t taken him to the hospital sooner, they replied: “we had no money to see the Dr.” (22 cents U.S.).
We prayed for him and then rushed him to the Balama hospital. He needs an emergency transfusion, so that is being organized at this moment.
Many people came to see Jesus because they heard He healed the sick.
The power of “faith filled prayer” releases miracles.
The news of miracles spreads like “wild fire” drawing in the lost and hopeless to seek out the healing power of Jesus Christ.
Pequaria villagers are “waking up” to just how powerful Jesus is.
TODAY this same process started in the newly formed Nacacca church, now 2 weeks old.
As I took the 3 year old to the hospital, I dropped off our visitors and evangelistic team at the Nacacca church meeting.
Just as I returned, they were praying for the sick.
Clete and Wayne prayed for an elderly blind woman. Villagers stated she couldn’t see anything.
After prayer, her eyes OPENED, and she was able to see!!!
The shock wave went through the 60+ people as they realized what had just happened.
More came up for prayer, asking for miracles.
It was a power packed morning for sure!
BUSH BUNNY TIDBITS:
1. A STRONG TROPICAL STORM is sitting just off the coast of Mozambique, and is expected to hit Pemba by Tuesday this week (Monday night your time).
Balama is 162 miles directly west of Pemba. We need your prayers for safety as the last one that hit in 2000 destroyed our orphan homes.
2. 30,000 bricks were completed on THANKSGIVING DAY! (it’s just another work day here since this is only an American holiday).
Our thanks once again to Sam Lyles and Nate Bell who gave 90 days of their life to give this gift of love to the orphans needing new homes next year.
3. A new female baby goat was born this morning to our herd. She is coffee brown in color, so of course her name is COFFEE!
Both mother and baby are fine. Baby is up bouncing around on her spindly legs.
4. Mozambique law now states that all foreign residents using International Driver’s Licenses have to get a Mozambican Driver’s License.
I’m studying the needed vocabulary and will challenge the test middle of Dec.
I’ve decided to get my commercial license while doing it, so pray for favour as their rickety truck which one HAS to use for the driver’s test is no joy at all.
Till next week, THAT’S ALL FOLKS!
Blessings from Bush Bunny Brenda and the Balama staff
Date: November 27, 2011 5:44:25 AM CST
Subject: Blog, Nov. 27, 2011
THE BLIND WOMAN SEES!
Two men are visiting us from South Africa who have the same vision as ours, “to see the gospel taken into remote areas”.
Clete and Wayne went with us to both the Pequaria and Nacacca churches this morning. (Naccaca’s 2nd Sunday)!
Over 60 people attended Naccaca this morning and Pequiare had 3 more adults receive Jesus today.
Jacinto came boldly in the door of the new Pequaria church with a big smile on his face, followed by his mother (who is unsaved at this point).
Surprises never cease where Jesus is involved.
God is really moving in Pequaria.
PEQUARIA CHURCH BUILDING IS FINISHED! Painted a beautiful royal blue, it now stands out as a beacon to all in the village with its shiny tin roof.
Our thanks to Coopersville Reformed Church, in Coopersville, MI for the gift that put a roof on this church.
A new couple came to our Pequaria church today because their 3 year son was almost dead from anemia, malnutrition, and worms. He basically has no blood and his whole body is swelling up. When asked why they hadn’t taken him to the hospital sooner, they replied: “we had no money to see the Dr.” (22 cents U.S.).
We prayed for him and then rushed him to the Balama hospital. He needs an emergency transfusion, so that is being organized at this moment.
Many people came to see Jesus because they heard He healed the sick.
The power of “faith filled prayer” releases miracles.
The news of miracles spreads like “wild fire” drawing in the lost and hopeless to seek out the healing power of Jesus Christ.
Pequaria villagers are “waking up” to just how powerful Jesus is.
TODAY this same process started in the newly formed Nacacca church, now 2 weeks old.
As I took the 3 year old to the hospital, I dropped off our visitors and evangelistic team at the Nacacca church meeting.
Just as I returned, they were praying for the sick.
Clete and Wayne prayed for an elderly blind woman. Villagers stated she couldn’t see anything.
After prayer, her eyes OPENED, and she was able to see!!!
The shock wave went through the 60+ people as they realized what had just happened.
More came up for prayer, asking for miracles.
It was a power packed morning for sure!
BUSH BUNNY TIDBITS:
1. A STRONG TROPICAL STORM is sitting just off the coast of Mozambique, and is expected to hit Pemba by Tuesday this week (Monday night your time).
Balama is 162 miles directly west of Pemba. We need your prayers for safety as the last one that hit in 2000 destroyed our orphan homes.
2. 30,000 bricks were completed on THANKSGIVING DAY! (it’s just another work day here since this is only an American holiday).
Our thanks once again to Sam Lyles and Nate Bell who gave 90 days of their life to give this gift of love to the orphans needing new homes next year.
3. A new female baby goat was born this morning to our herd. She is coffee brown in color, so of course her name is COFFEE!
Both mother and baby are fine. Baby is up bouncing around on her spindly legs.
4. Mozambique law now states that all foreign residents using International Driver’s Licenses have to get a Mozambican Driver’s License.
I’m studying the needed vocabulary and will challenge the test middle of Dec.
I’ve decided to get my commercial license while doing it, so pray for favour as their rickety truck which one HAS to use for the driver’s test is no joy at all.
Till next week, THAT’S ALL FOLKS!
Blessings from Bush Bunny Brenda and the Balama staff
LOVE GIFTS TO:
ORPHANS UNLIMITED, INC.
11152 WESTHEIMER RD., PMB 391
HOUSTON, TX 77042
LOVE GIFT TO: ORPHANS UNLIMITED in RSA
Standard Bank-Hatfield
(branch code) 011-54515
Name: Orphans Unlimited
Acct. # 017743036
PERSONAL NOTES TO BRENDA
brenda@orphansunlimited.org
ALL OTHER INQUIRIES:
LINDA FERGUSON
linda@orphansunlimited.org
phone: 979-234-3422 or 713-854-9197
Brenda’s Blog is Posted at:
www.orphansunlimited.org/blog
or SUBSCRIBE to receive the blog by e-mail.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Chunky slippers ~knitted~
These are the slippers Christina has. She says they are quite cushioned on the bottom. She wanted to know if I could make another pair like them.
This is the pattern I found that I thought was the closest to what she has. It looks to me like the top is crochet on Christina's slippers. Chunky slippers
#8 needles
2 skeins 4-ply yarn in contrasting colors (makes 2 pairs of slippers with
tassles or pom-poms)
Cast on 60 stitches using 1 color yarn
Row 1 - (Start with contrasting color) K6, pull other yarn across and K6;
repeat with alternate colors until you have 10 sets of 6 st each color.
Row 2 - (Anchor contrasting color at beginning of each row) K6 with same
color you ended row 1 with, pull other yarn across and K6. Repeat with
alternate colors as in Row 1.
NOTE: It is important on all even numbered rows to be sure to change your
yarn colors correctly. ALL ROWS STRAIGHT KNIT. After anchoring your contrast
color, be sure your matching coloris at the front of your work (away from
you). K6 sts. Bring the color towards the left and over your needle to the
back side of your work (toward you). Take the contrast color back through the
same way to the front of your work and K6. This constant reversing of yarns
is done for each 10 squares and on all even rows.
Row 3-8 - Repeat rows 1 and 2.
Row 9 - Change your color of thread to start a new color square. Knit same as
Row 1.
Continue the above procedure until youhave 7 squares for women and possible 8
for men.
Decrease in 8th (9th) square --
Row 1 - K 1, K2tog, K1, K2tog. Repeat in all 10 squares.
Row 2 - K 1, K2tog, K1. Repeat in all 10 squares.
Rows 3 and 4 - Knit.
Row 5 - K 1, K2tog. Repeat.
Row 6 - K2tog. Repeat. (This will leave you with 10 sts. on the needle).
Cut yarn about 12 inches long. Take one color yarn, thread it through a
needle and pull it through the 10 sts. Tie ends securely. (This forms toe of
slipper).
Using one yarn (cut the other off) sew the sides together of the last four
squares. This leaves four squares for the open part of the slipper.
Sew the back together to form the heel.
*** To give the rolled effect on the top edge of the slipper, IT IS VERY
IMPORTANT TO ANCHOR YOUR CONTRASTING COLOR AT EACH END OF EACH ROW.
SIZE ADJUSTMENTS --
Toddlers: 8 blocks across, 6 blocks long.
Children: 10 blocks across, 8 blocks long.
Ladies: 6 sts to block and 12 blocks across; 6 rows to a block and 10 blocks
long.
Men: 14 blocks across, 12 blocks long.
On men's and women's slippers, use size #10 needles and do one block less.
If cuff is desired, cast on 8 sts on each end, bind these sts. off when half
squares are completed.
#8 needles
2 skeins 4-ply yarn in contrasting colors (makes 2 pairs of slippers with
tassles or pom-poms)
Cast on 60 stitches using 1 color yarn
Row 1 - (Start with contrasting color) K6, pull other yarn across and K6;
repeat with alternate colors until you have 10 sets of 6 st each color.
Row 2 - (Anchor contrasting color at beginning of each row) K6 with same
color you ended row 1 with, pull other yarn across and K6. Repeat with
alternate colors as in Row 1.
NOTE: It is important on all even numbered rows to be sure to change your
yarn colors correctly. ALL ROWS STRAIGHT KNIT. After anchoring your contrast
color, be sure your matching coloris at the front of your work (away from
you). K6 sts. Bring the color towards the left and over your needle to the
back side of your work (toward you). Take the contrast color back through the
same way to the front of your work and K6. This constant reversing of yarns
is done for each 10 squares and on all even rows.
Row 3-8 - Repeat rows 1 and 2.
Row 9 - Change your color of thread to start a new color square. Knit same as
Row 1.
Continue the above procedure until youhave 7 squares for women and possible 8
for men.
Decrease in 8th (9th) square --
Row 1 - K 1, K2tog, K1, K2tog. Repeat in all 10 squares.
Row 2 - K 1, K2tog, K1. Repeat in all 10 squares.
Rows 3 and 4 - Knit.
Row 5 - K 1, K2tog. Repeat.
Row 6 - K2tog. Repeat. (This will leave you with 10 sts. on the needle).
Cut yarn about 12 inches long. Take one color yarn, thread it through a
needle and pull it through the 10 sts. Tie ends securely. (This forms toe of
slipper).
Using one yarn (cut the other off) sew the sides together of the last four
squares. This leaves four squares for the open part of the slipper.
Sew the back together to form the heel.
*** To give the rolled effect on the top edge of the slipper, IT IS VERY
IMPORTANT TO ANCHOR YOUR CONTRASTING COLOR AT EACH END OF EACH ROW.
SIZE ADJUSTMENTS --
Toddlers: 8 blocks across, 6 blocks long.
Children: 10 blocks across, 8 blocks long.
Ladies: 6 sts to block and 12 blocks across; 6 rows to a block and 10 blocks
long.
Men: 14 blocks across, 12 blocks long.
On men's and women's slippers, use size #10 needles and do one block less.
If cuff is desired, cast on 8 sts on each end, bind these sts. off when half
squares are completed.
Bill's ramen noodles
~Packages of Ramon noodles (For 10 people Bill used about 6 packages)
~Scramble one egg for each package of noodles you are going to use and set aside.
~Pork shoulder steak or other meat like it. Cut into cubes.
~Season meat with garlic and herb seasoning and salt.
~Stir fry meat until its about half way done
~Add veggies (green onions, radishes sliced thin and sliced mushrooms plus any other veggies you want)
~Drizzle Unagi sauce over this and cook until veggies are about half way done.
~Transfer to a stock pot
~Add water and the Ramon noodles (he doesn't break them up)
~Add about half of the seasoning packets to the pot
~Add in the scrambled eggs.
~Bring to a raging boil and shut it off. It is now done. Add cayenne pepper and serve in a bowl.
This is a cheap meal that is filling and tastes great.
Unagi sauce is an eel sauce which is really just a thicker soy sauce. You can buy it at most Asian stores.
~Scramble one egg for each package of noodles you are going to use and set aside.
~Pork shoulder steak or other meat like it. Cut into cubes.
~Season meat with garlic and herb seasoning and salt.
~Stir fry meat until its about half way done
~Add veggies (green onions, radishes sliced thin and sliced mushrooms plus any other veggies you want)
~Drizzle Unagi sauce over this and cook until veggies are about half way done.
~Transfer to a stock pot
~Add water and the Ramon noodles (he doesn't break them up)
~Add about half of the seasoning packets to the pot
~Add in the scrambled eggs.
~Bring to a raging boil and shut it off. It is now done. Add cayenne pepper and serve in a bowl.
This is a cheap meal that is filling and tastes great.
Unagi sauce is an eel sauce which is really just a thicker soy sauce. You can buy it at most Asian stores.
Bill's sweet potatoes
Sweet Potato Casserole
Recipe courtesy the Henderson Family
.Prep Time:10 minInactive Prep Time:-- Cook Time:30 minLevel:
EasyServes:
12 servings.Ingredients
Filling:
3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
Topping:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Filling:
In a large bowl combine all the filling ingredients. Transfer to a buttered 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
Topping:
In a medium bowl combine the brown sugar, flour, and butter until moist and the mixture clumps together. Stir in the pecans and spread over the top of the sweet potatoes in an even layer. Bake until the top is golden, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
A viewer, who may not be a professional cook, provided this recipe. The Food Network Kitchens chefs have not tested this recipe and therefore, we cannot make representation as to the results.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/sweet-potato-casserole-recipe/index.html.
The viewer may not have been a professional cook but this recipe was delicious. That's why I wanted to save it.
Recipe courtesy the Henderson Family
.Prep Time:10 minInactive Prep Time:-- Cook Time:30 minLevel:
EasyServes:
12 servings.Ingredients
Filling:
3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
Topping:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Filling:
In a large bowl combine all the filling ingredients. Transfer to a buttered 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
Topping:
In a medium bowl combine the brown sugar, flour, and butter until moist and the mixture clumps together. Stir in the pecans and spread over the top of the sweet potatoes in an even layer. Bake until the top is golden, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
A viewer, who may not be a professional cook, provided this recipe. The Food Network Kitchens chefs have not tested this recipe and therefore, we cannot make representation as to the results.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/sweet-potato-casserole-recipe/index.html.
The viewer may not have been a professional cook but this recipe was delicious. That's why I wanted to save it.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Whats Christmas all about?
I am not Torah observant, but I agree with this cartoon.
Click on picture for larger image.
Click on picture for larger image.
Hope your Thanksgiving was happy.
GOD IS WELCOME IN MY HOUSE。* 。
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Î ____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */________/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜ ç”°ç”° ｜é–€｜ •
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD,
choose you this day whom ye will serve; Joshua 24:15
Jos 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Î ____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */________/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜ ç”°ç”° ｜é–€｜ •
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD,
choose you this day whom ye will serve; Joshua 24:15
Jos 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Five finger prayer
1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember.. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a 'sweet duty.'
2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
3 The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.
4. The fourth finger is our ring finger.. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
5.. And lastly comes our little finger - the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, 'The least shall be the greatest among you.' Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.
2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
3 The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.
4. The fourth finger is our ring finger.. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
5.. And lastly comes our little finger - the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, 'The least shall be the greatest among you.' Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.
Monday, November 21, 2011
CROCK POT HOLIDAY WASSAIL PUNCH
CROCK POT HOLIDAY WASSAIL PUNCH
1 qt. apple juice
1 qt. orange juice
2 c. cran...berry juice
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 can pineapple nectar
1 cup sugar
3-4 cinnamon sticks
8 whole allspice
Navel Orange Slices
Combine all ingredients in listed order to your crock pot (4 qt. or larger) and cook on low setting for about 4 hours or until heated to desired temperature. You may also cook it on high initially for an hour and reduce the heat to save time. This reheats well for 3 days.
Submitted by: Megan ColetteSee more
by: Victorian Christmas
.
1 qt. apple juice
1 qt. orange juice
2 c. cran...berry juice
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 can pineapple nectar
1 cup sugar
3-4 cinnamon sticks
8 whole allspice
Navel Orange Slices
Combine all ingredients in listed order to your crock pot (4 qt. or larger) and cook on low setting for about 4 hours or until heated to desired temperature. You may also cook it on high initially for an hour and reduce the heat to save time. This reheats well for 3 days.
Submitted by: Megan ColetteSee more
by: Victorian Christmas
.
Grandma Olson's Glorified Rice Recipe
2 c. pineapple (shredded)
1 c. pineapple juice
1~ 3oz pkg. lemon jello
1 c.boiling water
2 c. cooked rice (cooled)
1 c. whipping cream
1/2 c. sugar
Marciano cherries for garnish
Drain pineapple, measure out 1c. of juice.
Dissolve jello in boiling water.
Add pineapple juice to jello.
Let jello set in refrigerator.
When jello is set whip with beater until smooth.
Add pineapple juice to jello.
Whip the cream, adding sugar and whipping that in as well.
Add the pineapple to the rice.
Fold the jello into the pineapple/rice.
Fold the whipped cream in.
Garnish with Marciano cherries.
1 c. pineapple juice
1~ 3oz pkg. lemon jello
1 c.boiling water
2 c. cooked rice (cooled)
1 c. whipping cream
1/2 c. sugar
Marciano cherries for garnish
Drain pineapple, measure out 1c. of juice.
Dissolve jello in boiling water.
Add pineapple juice to jello.
Let jello set in refrigerator.
When jello is set whip with beater until smooth.
Add pineapple juice to jello.
Whip the cream, adding sugar and whipping that in as well.
Add the pineapple to the rice.
Fold the jello into the pineapple/rice.
Fold the whipped cream in.
Garnish with Marciano cherries.
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