~~~~~Twin Oaks Stable~~~~~

Something to think about...

2012-01-29T20:24:00.000-05:00

What if you woke up today with only the things that you thanked God for yesterday...

Need I say more?? This sure changed how I prayed.
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Technical Difficulties

2012-01-26T16:46:00.000-05:00

I was busy trying to change my profile picture on my blog when I discovered that the picasa web albums blogger uses to store all the photos uploaded to my blog was "full".
First off; I didn't know there was a limit, second, if you delete pictures from picasa it deletes them from the blog (very frustrating).
I've been going through my blog deleting pictures (from both my blog and the picasa albums) that aren't needed for that post.
The problem is, I guess it takes a while for the picasa albums to realize there's more space because even though I deleted a ton of picture it stills says I'm full...AND now I'm stuck without a profile picture!! I even tried figuring out how to use a picture I already have in the picasa albums but I can't get it to work...

I guess I'll give it 24 hours before I get really annoyed....in the mean time I'm gonna try my lack of a profile picture not a big deal (even though it's driving me nuts!)

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Marinated Chicken Tenders

2012-01-20T12:39:00.000-05:00

This chicken recipe is very versatile; you can have it as a main dish or serve it over a salad!
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips.
1 cup zesty Italian dressing
2 teaspoons lime juice
3 teaspoons honey
Place chicken in bowl. Combine all other ingredients, pour over and marinate for at least half an hour
Pour all ingredients into a large skillet and cook over medium heat until liquid evaporates and remaining marinade becomes thick.
Yields: 4 Servings

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Crisy Roasted Potatoes

2012-01-20T12:34:00.000-05:00

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled
4 shallots (or 1/4 small onion), thickly sliced lengthwise
Coarse salt
1/2 to 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes (optional)
8 sprigs thyme (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a small bowl, combine butter and oil. Brush bottom of a round 9-inch baking dish with some butter mixture. With a sharp knife thinly slice the potatoes length wise. Brush baking dish with half of the butter and oil mixture.
Arrange potato slices vertically in dish. Wedge shallots (or onions) throughout. Sprinkle with salt and red-pepper flakes (if using); brush with remaining butter mixture. Bake 1 hour. Add thyme (if using) and bake until potatoes are cooked through with a crisp top, about 45 minutes more.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Olive Garden Bread Sticks

2012-01-20T12:18:00.000-05:00

1-1/2 cups warm water
2 tbs sugar
1 tbs yeast
1 tbs salt
2 tbs butter, softened
4-5 cups flour
Topping:
3 tbs butter melted
sea salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Parmesan Cheese
For the dough:
Pour the water into a stand mixer with the sugar and yeast, let that sit for about 10 minutes.
Add salt, butter, and 2 cups of flour. Mix the dough on low. Add the rest of the flour a half cup at a time, until dough scrapes the sides of the bowl clean.
Mix the dough about 5 minutes on medium speed, until it's soft and easy to work with.
Roll the dough out into a long log, spray a knife with cooking spray and cut the dough into 12-14 pieces.
Roll those pieces into about 6 inch long snakes.
Spray 2 large cookie sheets with cooking spray, and lay the bread sticks out leaving about 2 inches between each one.
Place them in the oven with the temperature turned to 170 degrees. Let them rise for about 15 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Once risen, brush them with the 1-1/2 tbs of melted butter and sprinkle them with salt.
Now preheat the oven to 400 degrees and bake them for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
While they are baking combine the rest of the melted butter with 1/4 tsp garlic powder.
When the bread sticks are golden brown, remove them from the oven and brush them with the butter/garlic mixture and sprinkle desired amount of Parmesan.Yields 12-14 bread sticks.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Super Quick Dinner Rolls

2012-01-20T12:10:00.000-05:00

1 cup plus 2 tbs warm water
1/3 cup oil
2 tbs yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
3-1/2 cup flour
Heat oven to 400 degrees.
In your mixer bowl combine the water, oil, yeast and sugar and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. Using your dough hook, mix in the salt, egg and flour. Knead with hook until everything is incorporated and dough is soft and smooth. (Just a few minutes).
Form dough into 10 balls and place them in a greased 9 x 13 pan and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Bake for 10 minutes at 400 degrees or until golden brown.
Yields: 10 rolls

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Soft Pretzels

2012-01-20T12:06:00.000-05:00

1 pkg yeast (2-1/2 tsp yeast)
2 tbs warm water
1-1/3 cups warm water
5 cups flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
Water and baking soda
Sea Salt (if desired-we were out)
Preheat oven to 475.
Dissolve the yeast in the 2 tbs water. Stir in the remaining water, flour and brown sugar, beat until smooth. Knead until smooth and elastic.
In sauce pan, add 2 tbs of baking soda to each cup of water; use enough to fill the pan. Bring to boil.
Tear off dough, roll into pencil shape with hands,shape into pretzel shape. Place the twisted pretzel into the water/soda mixture for 15 seconds or until golden or yellow in color. remove and place on cookie sheet. Sprinkle with salt and bake 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Yields 12 medium-small pretzels.

I ate my pretzels plain, with store bought cheese dip and spaghetti sauce. This is a really good recipe it reminds me of the pretzels you'd get in the mall!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Christmas Trees

2012-01-18T15:33:00.003-05:00

So; the title may seem strange since Christmas is long past and it's January 18th; I meant to post this sooner but I got distracted...
Christmas is over and the decorations are taken down; now, what to do with that Christmas tree...why give it to your goats of course!! Not only do (at least our goats) act like the pine needles are crack; but they'll also strip off and eat all the bark. Pine is also a natural dewormer. Because we have two bred does I double checked and there is no danger to bred does. And even though our does aren't milking I checked and it shouldn't affect the milk.
I'm talking about the Christmas tree type -firs and whatnot; and from what I read, actual true pine trees can cause abortions in pregnant ruminants, this includes goats sheep and cows...now I'm not sure what a 'true' pine tree looks like but right now I'm just sticking with my Christmas tree. Pine trees are high in vitamin C; so there's another perk.
Also; we cut our own tree so be careful with the pre-cut trees; many trees are sprayed with a chemical to keep them fresher and greener once they are cut and I read a story about a women's goat heard that got sick because of it...also if you use those 'icicles'; I wouldn't risk feeding the tree to your goats; just like with cats and dogs you don't want your goats eat that.

Our goats went crazy when we put the tree in there pen; and even the sheep go in on it. Now the skeleton on a Christmas tree sits in their yard waiting to be brought to the fire pile.

Don't forget to follow me on Pinterest.
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

30 day challenge

2012-01-15T15:21:00.001-05:00

It's Sunday; and Sunday means Church.
Today began a new series called 'Thrive"; God doesn't just want you to survive in this world He wants you to thrive in it! Just a thought I wanted to share and I wanted to challenge you; for 30 days, think of it how some families do the one week no cell phone or TV thing; I challenge you to read the bible everyday, pray everyday, go to church ever Sunday, listen to only Christian music, read chapter books that are pure, and when you watch a movie choose one that's good for your heart and soul, after all the more you see or hear something the more you except it and the more you become like it.
If it helps ask your self, would I want to watch this movie with Jesus. I reference Plugged In a lot before I go and see a movie; though I will say that some reviewers are really...over dramatic? But most give you the facts about the movie and leave it up to you about going to see it.
Yes this will be hard, but if it was easy everyone would do it. I challenge you to try it; just 30 days, 15 days, even 7 days and see how it changes you.

This past week was the first time it really felt like winter this year; 20* at the warmest and the wind was forcing the snow sideways. We put the blankets on the horses and turned the heat lamp on for the goats and chickens.
It's such a pain having to fill up water jugs for the animals, but I do what I have to to insure that my animals have what they need to survive winter (It's a good thing you can't house train most farm animals, because they'd end up inside with me on cold winter days).

I've been having fun this past week crocheting things; I made a newborns hat and baby booties (I don't know what I'm going to do with them; but they were fun and quick to make.)
I wish canvas and paint wasn't so expensive; I'd take up painting....I'm hoping to get one of our key boards in my room to start learning some songs on the piano.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Keeping a Journal

2012-01-08T16:09:00.002-05:00

I love keeping a journal. I've been keeping a journal for, well, as long as I can remember. I write down my thoughts, fears, hopes, and information about what's going on with my life.

I keep a journal for many reasons; writing it down helps clear my mind and helps me let it go and not be so stressed. Sometimes when I write it's my way of talking to God.

I also keep a journal for future purposes; so when I'm older I can look back and remember, also for my children, my children's children, and there children, etc.

With all this technology, texting and emails, we've lost a part of our life's story. People use to write love letter (or normal letters to family), they would keep journals, they'd keep family story's alive by telling them to each generation, they'd keep a great family tree (usually in the family bible) and all those items were passed down; creating an amazing keepsake!!!

During winter, when not much is going I usual journal about my self, sort of a get to know me deeper part of my journal.

I've made a list of some easy starting topics (some of them I'm using this winter).

When you write about one of the topics, try to give as much detail as possible! Imagine if your great-great-grandma did something like this and only put yes or no answers; though that would still be neat, it'd be disappointing! So; grab a note book, a sketch book, a real journal, and start writing!!!!!

P.S. This would be a great project for kids!

List five things that make you happy.
What's your favorite hobby?
What's a silly name you use for an everyday object?
Where is your favorite place?
What is you favorite season and why?
What can you remember about your first day of school?
What was your favorite toy as a child?
What is your favorite holiday? (New Years, Valentines Day, Easter, April Fools Day, 4^th of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas).
Do you play an instrument (now or in the past) if yes, what was it, were you any good and did you enjoy playing. If don't play, what instrument would you want to play if you could.
What was your dream job as a kid?
If you had a million dollars list five things you'd do with it.
What is your favorite book? Write about your favorite as a child, teen and now.
What is your favorite movie? Write about your favorite as a child, teen and now.
Write about your mom.
Write about your dad.
Write about your experiences with friends.
What are your three most important things in life?
Do you remember loosing your first tooth? What happened?
If money was unlimited, what's something you'd want to do with your life?
Do you play any sports?
Write about one random childhood memory.
Write about a family tradition.
Write about an embarrassing moment as a kid.
What's the most exciting adventure you've had in your life so far?
If you had the opportunity to go into space would you? Why or why not?
What was one of your childhood games?
One regret you have about yourself as a child.
Did you build tents as a kid?
What are your goals and dreams?
Did you have a favorite blanket as a kid?
Describe how Halloween was for you as a kid.
What's one thing you hate and why?
How do you feel about cell phones?
Are you an artsy/craft/diy person?
Describe your dream Christmas day.
List five random things about yourself.
If you could change any part of yourself, what would it be and why?
What's one thing you fear?
One thing you're sorry you never pursued.
What was your very first job where you receive a real paycheck?
What 'around the house' chore do you hate the most?
What are some childhood (age 0-7) television shows you watched?
What are some childhood (age 8+) television shows you watched?
Have you ever been on a stage?

Remember, this is suppose to be fun and stress-relieving! No one is going to judge you or grade you.
Some tips:
Try to keep it neat, trust me, it's very frustrating when you look back and can't read your own handwriting.
Make sure to put the date down each time you write!
If using a pencil, keep a sharpener near by, it's much nicer to write with a nice sharp pencil.
DON'T use lol, rofl, ttyl, lmao, g2g,---NO text talk people! 20+ years from now you might not know what it means. In an example, my Aunt used short hand on the back of a photo and now has no clue what it says.
Something random;
I always start my journal with "Hey," or "Hello," and end it with 'Love Gabrielle".
I've also wrote, "sorry, I'm back" more than once in my journal, as if I was talking to someone.

Happy writings!!!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Investments

2012-01-05T12:59:00.002-05:00

Investments, it's one of that hardest things in life. Spending money (money you usually don't even have) in hopes of getting a profit in the future.
On a farm you make a lot of investments. You spend money on raising chicks in hopes of getting eggs. You spend money on the the fencing to get you own cattle in hopes of raising your own beef. You spend money on seed in hopes of being able to grow your own food. You spend money of solar power in hopes of being able to save money...you get the point.

Samantha and I are at that stage where we're trying to decide if we should make that investment.
We're looking into buying two things.
The first is a incubator, if we want to raise and sell call ducks we need an incubator for the eggs.
The second in the more expensive investment; we're looking into buying a baby-doll sheep ram. We specifically purchased Abilene and Esmeralda with plans of starting a breeding business (well, we got them as a pet with the perks of breeding them); you need a ram for that and without a ram, our ewes are just pets.

The cheapest incubator we're looking at is a still air model that sells for around $50, rams start around $200, as you can see that's a lot of money.
Our dad had to go and be all nice and helpful saying he'd loan us $100 for the ram; making it even more tempting to purchase one!

Only the future will reveal the answer....
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Happy 2012!

2012-01-03T22:03:00.000-05:00

Happy New Years everyone!!!
Now that my 25 Days of Christmas Goodies is done; I can start blogging about other things. If you followed my Christmas thing, I'm sure you notice my Christmas themed background well, I finally found one for the remaining winter months (I found several I love for Spring).

First off, I'll catch you up on what's been going on here...
Up until the 1st of January, we've have very mild weather, usually staying around the 40's. The new year brought the cold; we had out first real snow fall Sunday night (we've had snow before but just a very light dusting), a good few inches.
The chicks we got this year; the two cochins and the two polish hens, have started laying.
We're not sure why they decided to start laying during winter time but we also got our first eggs from our runner ducks.

With the new year, usually brings new year resolutions...and I have made some for this year, but first, why wait until the new year to start bettering yourself? June 1st is just as good as January 1st.
My new year resolutions are pretty basic, and some aren't quite a typical resolution...

Read the bible everyday (even if it's just one verse)
Pray everyday
Exercise 6 days a week; I usually have this on my resolution list. But this year I'm gonna be beach ready before spring! I'm tired of hating my body and only I can change it. (I'm following a program this year, beach body in 90 days! It's gonna be hard but so worth it!)
Limit my calorie intake to 2,500 (it's according to the program I'm following)
This is one of the strange ones...when I purchase new clothing (it doesn't matter how many shirts/jeans i get) I have get rid of (donate/giveaway) at least one article of clothing. This keeps my closet cleans out of shirts/jeans I don't really like or wear and makes room for clothing I truly love.

I head a good idea somewhere if the whole 'new year resolution' sounds intimidating. Instead of a new year, do a new month resolution...

Back in December I became a addict. I'm so addicted I can't stop....I'm addicted to Pinterest. Never heard of it? Seriously? Pinterest is (to quote the Pinterest website)
"Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.
Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests."
It is so much fun!!! I had to request an invite (took 1-to-2 months for me to get one), but I can send invitations to friends and then they can join right away...so, even if I don't know you and you want to join asap just send me a message...and if you already happen to be apart of the addiction-

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Finally!

2011-12-26T20:23:00.001-05:00

Dorothy FINALLY went into heat!!! So, today she went to visit Fubar; lets hope it took!

p.s.
Just to let you know it was really strange not making a dessert today....
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 25 (Part 3): Pumpkin Pie

2011-12-25T19:26:00.002-05:00

This will be my last entry for my 25 Days of Christmas Goodies....Can you believe I made 25 sweets this month? And can you believe that 2012 is just around the corner! I do hope everyone had a great holiday; I know I did!
I enjoyed a great dinner with my family, and I was very happy with how much everyone loved their gifts!
I hope you had fun on this 25 day adventure; and I don't know about you but it's time to break out that workout gear! Why is it Thanksgiving and Christmas has to be so close together?
Merry Christmas and enjoy this yummy dessert!

Pumpkin Pie

1 Pie Crust
Filling:
2 cups pumpkin
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 TBS maple syrup (you can use the cheap maple flavored syrup)
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
2 large eggs
Streusel Topping:
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 TBS flour
2 TBS cold butter
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional)
Heat oven to 425.
In bowl beat all the filling ingredients and pour into crust, bake 10 minutes. Meanwhile make the streusel topping by mixing the sugar and flour together and then cutting in the butter, then add the walnuts.
Remove the pie from the oven. Reduce the heat to 350. Sprinkle the topping over the pie. Cover the crust with foil and bake 30-25 minutes more or until knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Yields:1 pie-8 servings

So for the last Christmas blog, at least till next year, Merry Christmas to all and to all a great year!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 25 (Part 2): Chocolate Yule Log

2011-12-25T19:15:00.001-05:00

Chocolate Yule Log

The Cake:
5 eggs, seperated
1 cup sugar, divided
1/2 cup cake flour
1/4 cup coco
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cream of tater
Filling:
1 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup powder sugar
Frosting:
1/3 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup coco
2 cups powder sugar
1-1/2 tsp vanilla extract
3 TBS milk
For the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350. Line a cookie sheet with three layers of aluminum foil; one sheet more to the left over flowing the pan, one more to the right over flowing the pan, and the last one down the center covering the 'seam'. Make sure the foil is long enough so you have handles to remove the cake from the sheet when done baking. Coat the foil really well with nonstick spray.
Place egg whites in bowl, let stand room temperature for 30 minutes.
Beat the egg yolks until fluffy, add 1/2 cup sugar. Combine the flour, coco and salt then add to the yolk mixture.
Beat egg whites until foamy, add tater, beat until soft peaks form. Add remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, one TBS at a time. Beat on high until stiff peaks form.
Stir in 1/4 of the egg white mixture into the chocolate mixture. Fold in the remaining egg white mixture until there are no white streaks.
Spread in prepared pan. and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back (don't over cook the cake).
Cool 5 minutes then remove the cake from the pan by using the foil to help slide it out. Place a t-towel onto the cake and roll the cake up (roll the cake from the short end-it may crack a little, but don't panic). Let cool.
For the Filling:
Beat the cream until it begins to thicken. Add the sugar and beat util stiff peaks form. Chill, then unroll the cake, spread on the filling then roll the cake back up.
For the Frosting:
Beat everything in a bowl until smooth. Frost the cake with.
Yields: 12 Servings.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 25 (Part 1): Pecan Pie

2011-12-25T18:54:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope everyone had a wonderful day!

Pecan Pie

1 Cup Sugar
3 TBS butter, melted
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
3 large eggs, beaten
2 cups pecans halves (I used chopped pecans)
2 TBS Jack Daniels Whiskey
1 (9-ix) deep pie shell, unbaked
Preheat oven to 375. In bowl, mix together the sugar and butter, add the corn syrup, eggs, pecans, and whiskey; stir until well combined. Pour mixture into pie shell and place on a heavy-duty baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes, then lower the oven temperature to 350 and bake 35 more minute (or until the pie is set-the center shouldn't 'jiggle'.) Yields: 6-8 slices.

Merry Christmas!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 24: Molasses Cookies

2011-12-24T22:49:00.001-05:00

Molasses Cookies

3/4 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1 egg

1/4 cup molasses

2 cups flour

2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp cloves

1 tsp ginger

Additional Sugar

Cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and molasses. Sift together all the dry ingredients; mix into butter mixture. Chill dough for at least an hour. Preheat oven to 375. Roll dough into balls, dip one side into additional sugar, place sugar side up onto cookie sheet. Bale 10 minutes or until done. Yields: 4 Dozen.

So.......it's Christmas eve!!!!!!!! This 25 days of Christmas Goodies has flown by! I have three more desserts to make and post tomorrow. Wow, I really can not believe that Christmas is already here and that 2012 is just around the corner!!!!

I went to my very first Christmas eve service today and it was wonderful!

May your holidays be merry and bright; Merry Christmas Everyone!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 23: Mini Blueberry Pies

2011-12-23T20:56:00.003-05:00

You know how when you're in a hurry you usually mess something up or forget something? Well, today as I was making these pies, I'm lucky they turned out right. I didn't forget anything, but I came close to. I don't know where my mind way! I'd always catch a mistake last minute and thankfully, I'd have just enough time to fix it.

Crust:
3 cups flour
2 TBS sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup ice water
1 tsp oil
2 sticks butter, cubed
Mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix in the water and oil. cut the butter in, until it resembles very fine crumbles. Knead a couple times until it starts coming together (at first it will seem almost to dry and crumbly), divide into two balls and refrigerate for 1/2 hour. Roll one pastry out and cut into 8 circles, place them into well greased cupcake cups (no liners). Roll out the other ball and cut eight more circles for the caps.
For the Filling:
2-1/2 cups frozen blueberries (they need to stay frozen do not thaw)
1/2 cup lemon juice
3/4 cup sugar
1 TBS cornstarch
1 TBS flour
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
pinch of salt
(I forgot to do this)one egg for brushing on top of pastry and extra sugar to sprinkle over pastry
Toss together the blueberries and 2 TBS of the lemon juice. Mix together all the dry ingredients and then add to the blueberries. Toss together, then add just enough of the remaining lemon juice to make the moisten all the dry ingredients (if needed you can add more lemon juice-I just estimated 1/2 cup). Now, divide filling amongst 8 cups. Take the pastry caps and place onto. Pinch/crimp the top crust to the bottom crust, as you normally would a pie. Chill 15 minutes (now preheat oven to 400). Cut 3 vent slits in caps. Beat and egg, then brush over pastry. Sprinkle with sugar. Place on baking sheet, bake for 10 minutes or until the crust looks dry and very slightly browned. Now lower the temperature to 350 and bale 20-30 minutes more (until the crust in done). Let the pans cool before trying to remove the pies. Yields: 8 mini pies.

Can you believe that Christmas eve is tomorrow?!? Where has this month gone?!?
Tomorrow is Christmas Eve service at my church- this will be the first time I've ever gone to a Christmas Eve service (and I plan on doing it every year from now on!)
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 22: Chocolate Molten Lava Cakes

2011-12-22T22:23:00.001-05:00

If the baking time is timed right this is actually a really easy dessert to make!

I slightly over cooked my cakes so the 'lava' was more of a fudge consistency.

4 oz bitter sweet chocolate
4 oz semisweet chocolate
10 TBS butter
1/2 cup flour
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
3 lg eggs
3 lg yolks
1 tsp Vanilla
2 TBS Milk
Now- if you're like me and don't have custard cups, you can just alter two things to make this work for a cupcake pan; every thing in that's put in parentheses is for is you're using a cupcake pan.
Preheat the oven to 425 (400). Melt the chocolate and butter together. Add the flour and sugar Then add the eggs vanilla and milk. Grease 5 custard cups (or 12 cupcake cups-do not use liners!!) Divide the batter amongst cups. Refrigerate 1/2 hour (15 minutes). Bake for 15 minutes (9 minutes).
These next parts apply to both the custard cups and the cupcake pan; the edges should be firm but the center runny. Remove from oven, run a knife around the edges to loosen and invert onto dessert plates (for the cupcake pan, cover tightly with foil and then invert the cakes. Yields: 5 custard cakes or 12 "cup cakes".

Can you believe that Christmas is this Sunday!?!?! I'm so excited to hand out the gifts I got everyone!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 21: The Mall

2011-12-21T23:01:00.001-05:00

If you didn't tell from the title, today, I didn't make anything (remember-I said there would be two days I wouldn't bake, the first was the horse carriage parade and this is the second.)
Today, my mom, Samantha and I went to the mall, Half Price Books, Payless and JCpennys.
The only thing I bought today were books from Half Price....

As we walked through the mall, I could help but notice all the bags other people we carrying and if I had to guess the bags likely contained gifts. Some of the bags were see through and others I knew the store by name, and all I can say is, money, money, money!
I won't deny, I wish I could just spend and not budget during Christmas, but...I'm really happy with the gifts I got my family.
All the gifts I chose (and made) came from the heart. I spent probably less that 80 bucks this year on gifts for six people--that's like 13 bucks a person! That's way less than what I spent last year!
I'm never impressed by the value of the gift, what impresses me is the thought and/or time put into that gift.

When people ask, "what's the worse gift you received", I here people say, "oh, socks or underwear."
I come from a family where, I was very thankful to get undies or socks (I could always use a new pair)...the worse gift I got was at a Home School co-op Christmas gift exchange (I was 13). Everyone brings a wrapped gift in and everyone places all the gifts in a pile, each person can go and choose one gift, people brought in great gifts- DVDs, books, jewelry, candy, hats, etc...well I went up and chose a box that one of my friends brought...I opened it up and it was a Jessie doll (from Toy Story 2) that had it's butt chewed off by her dog...my friend laughed and found it oh so funny- but I was very upset (of course I hid it).

This past Monday, my mom (and us kids) finally convinced my dad to go to the hospital. He was huffing and puffing just getting up from a chair. He went in and found out he has several clots in his legs, one clot is two-to-three inches long. He also was told that is kidneys aren't working right. They omitted him to run more tests. He came home yesterday and has more appointments this Friday....so, if everyone reading this could please just keep my dad in your prayers I'd really appreciate it!

With love, Merry Christmas everyone!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 20: Cinnamon Rolls

2011-12-20T22:02:00.001-05:00

I love cinnamon rolls, and this recipe is so delicious!!! Do I need to say anything about these? I mean, so look at that picture- so yummy looking!

Cinnamon Rolls

Dough:

1 pkg yeast (2-1/2 tsp yeast)

1/2 cup warm water

1/2 cup boiled milk

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup butter, softened

1 tsp salt

1 egg

4 cups flour

Filling:

1/2 cup melted butter (plus more to coat pans with)

3/4 cup sugar (plus more to sprinkle on bottom of pans)

2 TBS cinnamon

Glaze:

4 TBS butter, melted

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla

4 TBS hot water

For the dough:

Dissolve the yeast in the water, set aside. Combine the milk, sugar, butter, salt, egg and 2 cups flour. Mix well, scraping the edges of the bowl as you go. Add the yeast water. Mix, then add the remaining flour. Knead 10 minutes then place in a well greased bowl (turning to coat both sides). Let sit in warm place for 1-1/2 hours. Punch the dough down, and roll onto a floured surface into a 15X9 rectangle (I flattened it in a cookie sheet that was that size).

Now for the filling, brush the butter over the dough. Combine the cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle over the dough. Make sure to brush all the butter onto the dough- it may seem like a lot but the sugar mixture absorbs it- you don't want a dry powdery filling! Starting from the 15" side roll the dough up; seal the seam by pinching and lightly rubbing it together. Cut into 14 pieces. Coat 2 round cake pans with the extra butter, now sprinkle the extra sugar over it. Place 7 rounds into the pan- you can line them all along the edge (like I did) or do 6 in a circle and 1 in the center...Let rise 45 minutes. While it's rising, preheat the oven to 350. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tops are lightly browned--I always check the center of one of the rolls.

For the glaze, just mix everything together; and spread onto the baked cinnamon rolls.

Yields: 14, one roll servings...which in my family translates to 7 servings.

So it's the 20th already!! Can you believe it! The 25th is coming so quickly!!!

My Silvestri Santa

Merry Christmas Y'all!!!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 19: Candy Cane Shape Cookies

2011-12-19T23:19:00.001-05:00

I love how fun and complicated these cookies look!

Candy Cane Shape Cookies

1 cup salted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1-1/2 tsp almond extract (or vanilla, or peppermint)
2-1/2 cups flour
Red Food Coloring
If Desired:
1/2 cup crushed candy cane
1/2 cup sugar
Preheat oven to 350. Spray baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray. Cream together the butter and sugar; add the egg and extract. Still in the flour. Divide the dough in half and add drops of red food coloring to one half (stirring and then adding more drops until desired red coloration).
*Now, take a ball of the plain dough and a ball of the red dough. Roll each ball into a rope; now roll each rope together (enough so the two ropes become one). Now twist until it has the candy cane stripes. Place on the baking sheet and **shape into a candy cane. Repeat with the remaining dough. Bake for 10-15 minutes- until the bottom of the cookie is lightly brown.
*I suggest refrigerating the dough for half an hour to make the dough a little less sticky.
**When you create the candy cane hook, the top of the hook may crack and wanna break, just carefully smooth it back together with your finger.

We've lucked out; this past week has been in the 40's and the nights only dropping to 30 degrees at the lowest.
Sadly we're all out of pumpkins- the goats (and sheep, I can't forget the sheep) LOVED the pumpkins! They preferred it over the hay!

The song of the day is Have Yourself a merry little Christmas by Judy Garland.

Happy Christmas and Merry Holidays (I wanted to switch up the usual)....
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 18: Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-12-18T23:23:00.001-05:00

These cookies are really quick to make and they only require three ingredients!

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

1 egg
1 cup sugar
1 cup peanut butter
Extra sugar
Preheat oven to 350. Mix everything together. Roll cookies into balls (I used a cookie dough scoop) place on greased cookie sheet. Flatted eat ball with a fork. Sprinkle extra sugar on top. Bake 10-15 minutes or until bottoms are brown. Yields: 2 dozen cookies.

Today I went to see the new Sherlock Holmes Movie (Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows) with all but one member of my family. It was really good; just like the first!!!! I love the witty remarks in it!! And boy; there was one seen that was...well...very unexpected but extremely funny!

I realized this morning that I forgot to put a "song of the day" yesterday...and I have to say; I really can't think of a song right now....Have I done The Little Drummer Boy? If not; I love the version by MercyMe - after all I do know that song in sign language!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 17: "Almond Joys"

2011-12-18T01:24:00.001-05:00

These candies are a little more moist than true almond joys, but they're still really good. And yes; they are a bit of a mess to make but as I said; they're really good.

As you can see; I didn't shape my candies in the log shape like; which I'll explain later.

7 oz sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla
pinch of salt
1 cup powdered sugar
2-1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut
30 almonds
20-oz milk (or semi sweet) chocolate chips
Mix together all ingredients except the almonds and chocolate. Make sure to mix really well. Now freeze the mixture for 1/2 hour and then roll into 30 balls, rolling one almond into each candy; place the candies on parchment paper lined pan. If you want to hassle with it you can roll the candies into the log shape; where the almond sits on the top, but I had a problem with the almond wanting to fall off when I dipped it in the chocolate. So, after you have the balls rolled place in the freezer for 2 hours.
Melt the chocolate and then coat each candy with it, placing it back onto the pan. Let chocolate harden. Yields; 30 Candies.

So....I had this post ready to be 'published' at 7:30 p.m. 12/17/2011.....I forgot to click "publish".....this is going to annoy me through the rest of my 25 days; which is less a week away.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 16: Pepper Mint Meltaways

2011-12-16T20:42:00.001-05:00

These are really good cookies; they'd be just as good without the peppermint added. If desired, you can crush a mint/candy cane and sprinkle it on the tops.

Peppermint Meltaways

1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup powder sugar
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
1-1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup corn starch
Frosting:
2 TBS butter, softened
1-1/2 cups powder sugar
2 TBS milk
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
For cookies:
Preheat oven to 350; and spray cookie sheet with nonstick spray. Cream the butter and sugar; add the peppermint extract. Mix the flour and cornstarch together, then mix it into the butter mixture. Shape into balls and place on cookie sheet (I used a cookie scoop). Bake 10-12 minutes; or until lightly brown. Remove from oven and remove cookies from cookie sheet; allow them to cool completely then spread frosting on each.
For frosting; beat the butter then add the remaining ingredient. Beat until smooth. Yields: 2 dozen cookies.

The song of the day is Angelic Proclamation by the Barlow Girls.

Merry Christmas-and Happy Holidays!
Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 15: Homemade PopTarts

2011-12-15T23:36:00.001-05:00

These 'pop tarts' are more of a grown-ups version of pop tarts (though kids will still love them). They're nothing like those things that come in a box from the store- but ma-o-man, these are SO good!!! They may sound intimidating; but these are really easy to make! Just PLEASE make sure that they are completely cooled before you eat them; jam can stay hot for a while.

Homemade Pop Tarts

...Not my best food picture...

Pastry:
2 cups flour
1 TBS sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold, cubed
1 egg
2 TBS milk
1 egg-to brush the pastry
Strawberry Filling:
3/4 cup Strawberry jam (it can really be any type of jam)
1 TBS corn starch
1 TBS water
Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt together. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles very fine peas. Whisk together the egg and milk and add to the flour mixture-use a fork until it's evenly moistened. Knead the dough until it comes together.
For filling:
Whisk everything together on stove top; bring to boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Let Cool.

Now, divide the dough in half. Roll one piece of dough into a rectangle (9x12 inches- I advise using a ruler). Cut eight rectangles. Place pastry onto greased (or parchment paper lined) baking sheet.
Whisk the extra egg; and brush the pastries. Divide the filling amongst the eight rectangles (making sure to leave and edge clean so you can seal it). Now; roll out the other pastry ball; and repeat the cutting and brushing of the dough, place the dough on each pastry (egg brushed side down). Use your fingers to press down along the seams, then use a fork to really seal it. Poke the tops with a fork a few times to create vent holes. Preheat the oven to 350 and while the oven warms, place the pastries in the fridge for 30 minutes. Bake 20-30 minutes (until the edges are browned). Yields: 8 Pastries.
Okay; now this is where you get to decided. You can eat them without frosting or you can make the glaze used for the doughnuts (here).

I haven't listened to Christmas songs at all today (shame on me!)...But; another classic (I love classics) is Santa Clause is Coming to Town.

I've had a lot of thoughts going through my head lately...Good, bad, happy, sad, and ugly-but I just keep remembering that God is with me (as my blog signature says)...and to quote a little blue fish from a movie; Just keep swimming!

With love and Merry Christmas!!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 14: Pumpkin Torte

2011-12-14T21:43:00.002-05:00

Pumpkin Torte

1 package yellow cake mix

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin, divided (I uses our home pureed pumpkin)

1/2 cup milk

4 eggs

1/3 cup oil

1-1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice-divided

1 pkg (8oz) cream cheese, softened

1 cup confectioners' sugar

1 (16oz) tub cool whip, thawed

1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350.

Combine the cake mix, 1 cup pumpkin, milk, oil and 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice. Mix well, and pour into two greased round cake pans. Bake 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cake comes out clean. Cool the cakes 10 minutes in the pan then, remove them from the pans and finish cooling.

In large bowl beat cream cheese until fluffy. add the sugar, and remaining pumpkin and pie spice. Beat until smooth (it may seem that the batter is really runny at this stage, but so long as you followed the recipe it's OK) then fold in the cool whip.

Now, cut each cake in half, put 1/4 of the filling on and spread, sprinkle with 1/4 of the pecans. Repeat. After top layer is on and filling mixture spread and pecans sprinkled on the top,drizzle the caramel topping over cake (we didn't have any caramel, I forgot to put it on the list- but I can say it is still delicious without it!).

Yields: 10 Servings (it all depends on how big of a slice you want!)

Wow; so only 10 days till Christmas! December it flying by!!! As I enjoy December with my family I can't help but think of all the soldiers over seas spending it away from their families- along with the families spending it without there military loved ones. I owe everything to those people who are willing to lay down their lives from others- so I wanted to say a special thank you to all who serve, served or are married, father, mother, sibling, daughter or son to someone who is or was in the military!

Google Image

Have you ever heard of a movie called 'Silent Night' (2002)?
It's based on a true story about a mother (Linda Hamilton) and son living in cabin in Germany on Christmas Eve of 1944. However, soon she finds that three German soldiers and three American soldiers also need a place to spend the night, and she manages to forge a temporary peace between the opposing soldiers to enjoy a peaceful Christmas eve dinner.
It's a really good movies (and story- google it sometime!) I'd say this movie is really a must see, especially during Christmas time!!!

So; On that; the song of the day is Silent Night; by, well, whoever you want! Enya does a version in, I guess Irish and it's pretty cool...

Wake up the happiness- come on y'all, it's Christmas time!!!!!!!
Merry, merry, Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 13: Wedding Cookies

2011-12-13T21:25:00.001-05:00

Wedding Cookies

1-1/2 cups pecans run through a food processor with 3 TBS confectioners sugar until finely chopped

2-3/4 cup flour

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup sugar

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla

Extra confectioners sugar for coating

Preheat oven to 350. Spray two cookie sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

Mix together the pecans mixture with the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix together the butter and sugar; add the egg and vanilla: add the flour mixture to butter mixture.

Using a cookie scoop- fill both sheets with the cookie dough (the cookies don't spread). Bake for 10-15 minutes; until the bottom of the cookies are brown. Remove from oven, and place cookies onto cooling wrack. Cool completely. Now roll each cookie in the extra powdered sugar. Yields: 4 dozen cookies.

The song of the day is Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, a classic!!!!

I hope everyone is having a great Christmas season!!!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 12: Easy Stuffed French Toast

2011-12-12T23:40:00.001-05:00

Easy Stuffed French Toast

14 slices of desired bread ( I used plain white bread; but you can use any type of bread.)
1 (8oz) cream cheese, softened
1 TBS Sugar
1 (21oz) can desired pie filling (I used blueberry)
7 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp almond extract
2 tsp cinnamon
Mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and pie filling. Spread onto 7 slices of bread, place remaining 7 slices, onto top of each cream cheese mixture covered slice to create 'sandwiches'.
Now; (if you haven't already), plug in you griddle or, place a skillet on the stove top on medium-high heat.
Mix together the remaining ingredients (make sure to mix really well). Dip each 'stuffed' breads into the mixture, then place on griddle. Cook until golden brown (flipping to brown both sides). Serve with butter, syrup and (if desired powdered sugar). Yields: 7 servings.

The song of the day is (so many choices!) My Favourite Time Of Year, by The Florin Street Band.

What is Christmas without Christ? Merry Christmas everyone; may everyday be merry!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 11: Loaded Oatmeal Cookies

2011-12-11T17:25:00.002-05:00

These oatmeal cookies taste delicious and are good for you too!

Loaded Oatmeal Cookies

1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp salt
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
1 cup old fashioned oats
1/3 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (you can shred a dark chocolate bar if needed)
1/4 cup dried cranberries (or raisins or any dried fruit)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
*If you want a really healthy cookie just make these changes:
3/4 cup flour
3/4 cup old fashioned oats
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup flax seed meal
Preheat oven to 350. Spray cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Mix together the butter and sugars. Add the cinnamon, soda and salt-mix well. Add the egg and vanilla. Then add the remaining ingredients.
Make sure to mix well; using cooking dough scoop, scoop out dough and place onto baking sheet. Bake 9-11 minutes, or until golden. Yields: 30 cookies.

So.....I get the idea of have an outdoor nativity...it brings back the reason for the season.

Google Image

But can someone please explain what this is about.......

Google Image

It's Noah's Ark....for Christmas??? Um.....someone please explain! I'm a little confused....what on earth does this have to do with Christmas? I mean....it's cute and all but...I think people get to caught up in decorating for Christmas (and this is coming from someone who LOVES decorating for Christmas) and not enough time celebrating the true meaning of it.
We have Black history month, 9/11, Hispanic heritage month, Perl Harbor and even Presidents Day, which through the entire month TV is showing history show about why we need to remember them...but with Christmas it's about spending money and decorating...
Christmas needs to go back and be about Jesus. Jesus came into this world pure and innocent...and he died for us still pure and innocent. He died for me, and he died for you. Even if you don't want to celebrate Christmas the way it should be, maybe you dress up as Santa...please just take one moment and remember the true meaning of Christmas!

The song of the day is Nestor the long-eared Christmas donkey, by Marty Robins (it's from Nestor the long-eared Christmas Donkey movie-one of my Christmas Favorites!!)

All is Calm and all is bright! Merry Christmas my dear readers!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 10: Cinnamon Soft Pretzels

2011-12-10T22:36:00.004-05:00

Cinnamon Soft Pretzels

1 pkg yeast (2-1/2 tsp yeast)
1-1/2 cups warm water
2 TBS brown sugar
1 tsp salt
2 cups cake flour (1-1/2 cups flour+1/2 cup corn startch)
2 to 2-1/2 cups flour
2 TBS baking soda
2 cups hot water
For coating:
3 TBS butter, melted
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
Preheat oven to 400. Dissolve the yeast in the water, add the sugar and salt. Add the cake flour and regular flour. Knead 6-8 minutes then place in a greased covered bowl for 30 minutes. Punch the dough down then divide the dough into 14 balls. Roll each ball into a long rope. Dissolve the baking soda in the hot water. Dip each rope into water, and drain on a paper towel. Shape into pretzels, place on greased baking sheet. If you're like me and you can't get the shape to hold, just place the ropes onto a greased baking sheet, and one cooked cut into pretzel bites.
Bake for 15 minutes, so long as the pretzel dough is cooked don't worry about getting them browned-it may take a while for them to brown and by then they will be tough.
Combine the cinnamon and sugar. Brush the pretzels with the butter then dip them into the sugar mixture.
Yields: 14 Pretzels- or a ton of pretzel bites.
*You can also make a glaze to dip them in with 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 TBS milk (give or take), and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
I found this poem online-the author is unknown, but whoever wrote it, bravo!!!!

Twas the Month After Christmas

Twas the month after Christmas and all through the house
Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.

The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste.
All the holiday parties had gone to my waist.

When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).

I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared;
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,

The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese
And the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please."

As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt
And prepared once again to do battle with dirt---

I said to myself, as I only can
"You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!"

So--away with the last of the sour cream dip,
Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip

Every last bit of food that I like must be banished
Till all the additional ounces have vanished.

I won't have a cookie--not even a lick.
I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won't have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie,
I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.

I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore---
But isn't that what January is for?

Unable to giggle, no longer a riot.
Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

Every time I make a goodie now, I'm going to be thinking of this poem!!!!

The song of the day is One Toy Soldier, by Enya.

Go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is BORN!!!!!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 9: Sugar Cookies

2011-12-09T21:37:00.004-05:00

Sugar Cookies

1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 sticks butter, softened
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
2-1/2 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cream of tartar
Preheat over to 350. Cream the butter and powdered sugar, add the egg, extracts. Add the remaining ingredient, mixing well. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. On a floured surface roll out the dough, and using cookie cutter, but out shapes and place them on a grease baking sheet. Sprinkle cookies with sugar and bake for 9-12 minutes (cook until they look dry, they may take a while to brown, and by then the cookie may be dried out). Yields: 3 Dozen.
*As a note; these are great with powder sugar frosting- to make, take a cup of powdered sugar, add 1-tsp almond extract and then at milk (one TBS at a time) until desired consistency.

"Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won't make it 'white'."-Bing Crosby

The song of the day is The Royal Guardsman! It's such a fun song!!!!
Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 8: Pumpkin Roll

2011-12-08T23:55:00.002-05:00

This may seem intimidating; but it is super quick and easy to make!

Pumpkin Roll

1 cup sugar

1 tsp baking Soda

3/4 cup flour

2/3 cup pumpkin (not pie mix; I used more home pureed jarrahdale pumpkin)

3 eggs

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Icing:

8oz cream cheese, softened

1 tsp vanilla

2* cups powdered sugar

2 TBS butter softened

For Cake: Preheat oven to 375. Line a cookie sheet with three layers of aluminum foil; one sheet more to the left over flowing the pan, one more to the right over flowing the pan, and the last one down the center covering the 'seam'. Make sure the foil is long enough so you have handles to remove the cake from the sheet when done baking. Coat the foil really well with nonstick spray.

Icing: Mix everything together. *I use two cups of powdered sugar because I like it a little less cream cheesy; but my original recipe called for 1 cup. That's the great thing about baking, go with what you like!!!

Yields: 12 Servings

(This is super easy); mix everything together and pour into prepared pan. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cake looks dry, and the edges are just starting to brown. (I had a helper), using the foil, carefully remove the cake from the pan, place a t-towel onto the cake and roll the cake up (roll the cake from the short end-it may crake a little, but don't panic). Leave to cool for 10 minutes. Unroll, spread the filling on; leaving 1/4 inch edge around the entire cake-to allow for icing overflow.

I'm barely making the deadline, it's almost midnight! We got our tree today; but I decided to go ahead and make the pumpkin roll because it's so easy. Plus we might go to my granny's sometime next week so I'll use that as my non-baking day....

The song of the day is Shake Up Christmas by Train.

Merry CHRISTmas!!!!!

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 7: Peanut Butter Cups

2011-12-07T16:07:00.002-05:00

Peanut Butter Cups

1 cup Peanut Butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1-1/4 cup powdered sugar
4 cups chocolate chips
1/4 cup vegetable shortening
Line 36 cup cake cups with liners. Line a baking sheet with wax/parchment paper.
Melt the peanut butter, butter, and brown sugar on stove top. Heat until bubbly (stirring constantly), remove from heat. Stir in the powdered sugar and set aside.
Melt the chocolate and vegetable shortening in pot. Spoon a thin layer (think Reese's Cups) into bottom of cup cake papers; set in refrigerator.
Take peanut butter mixture and scoop out 36 even balls (remember you want the disk to easily fit cup cake papers, with space so chocolate can surround it and encase the peanut butter) squash into disks and place on baking sheet; place in fridge for 10 minutes, until fully cooled and until the chocolate is hardened.
Remove both peanut butter disks and the cup cake pans.
Place one disk in each 36 cups. Use the remaining chocolate (you may need to reheat the chocolate). Place pans back into fridge until chocolate is fully hardened. Yields: 36 Peanut butter cups.

The song of the day today is Belleau Wood by Garth Brooks; but this song also comes with a story...
it's based on the true Christmas Truce between the British and Germans in 1914- you can read about it here.
To quote a paragraph from First World War's web site;
"In our age of uncertainty, it comforting to believe, regardless of the real reasoning and motives, that soldiers and officers told to hate, loathe and kill, could still lower their guns and extend the hand of goodwill, peace, love and Christmas cheer."

Peace, Love and Merry Christmas!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 6: Gingerbread "Men"

2011-12-06T16:00:00.002-05:00

Today I made a batch of gingerbread...things...I only had a lady, a snowman, a star and a candy cane cut out, so there's no 'man' but I figured it'd be best to call them by the original name rather than gingerbread things.

Gingerbread Men

3/4 cup dark brown sugar

1 stick butter, softened

2 large eggs

1/4 cup molasses

2-3/4 cups flour

2 tsp ginger

1-1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp cinnamon

3/4 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp salt

Cream the sugar and butter, add the eggs and molasses. In separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients then mix into egg mixture. Remove the dough from the bowl and wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350 and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out dough to desired thickness (it can't be to thick or it won't cook right-at least a little less than 3/4 inch- if you like crunchy cookie make the dough thin) on floured surface. Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters. Bake 10 or so minutes (until the edges start to slightly brown.

Yields (depends on cookie cutter size): 18-24 cookies.

Did you know that the word mistletoe literally means “dung twig”. The name for mistletoe comes from the fact that mistletoe tends to grown from bird droppings that have fallen on trees, (the seeds passed through the digestive tract). When the plant was given this name, the people didn’t know anything about that, but they observed that mistletoe seemed to come from bird droppings on trees, thus “mistle” or “missel”, which meant basically “dung”, and “toe”, which came from the Anglo-Saxon “tan” meaning “twig”..........kind of takes the romance of kissing under mistletoe away....

The song of the day is Baby it's Cold Outside; I have had it stuck in my head ALL DAY!

Merry Christmas!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 5: Glazed Doughnuts

2011-12-05T16:59:00.001-05:00

The title explains it all; today's recipe is so Delicious! It's a more dense doughnuts, but it is so good!!

Glazed Doughnuts

2 packets of yeast ( There are 2-1/2 tsp per packet of yeast if you buy bulk)

1/4 cup hot water

1-1/2 cups warm milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp salt

2 eggs

1/3 cup shortening

5 cups flour

Oil heated to 350 for frying

Dissolve the yeast in water. Add remaining ingredients (at first only 2 cups of flour). Mix well then add remaining 3 cups flour. Let rise for 1 hour. Knead, roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut out doughnuts; let rise 40 more minutes.

Cook doughnuts in oil (only a few minutes on each side) until golden brown. Drain (I drain on a cookie wrack over a plate or pan), this next step in important, while the doughnuts are still warm (almost hot) carfully dip them into desired glaze (below). It may seem like the glaze is thick, but when the hot doughnut touches it, it melts. Place on wax paper, and let cool; glaze will harden as it sits. Yields: 24 doughnuts

Glaze:

Mix together butter, sugar, and vanilla. Add hot water.

Chocolate Glaze:

1/3 cup butter melted

4 oz chocolate chips, melted w/ butter

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla
4-6 TBS HOT water
Mix together everything except the water. Add the water and mix well.
We were planning on getting our Christmas tree today; but it's been raining since yesterday morning. Our entire property is starting to look like a pond!

Some people wonder how a Christian can have a Christmas tree... I feel that the tree represents Christ's everlasting life...even after being cut down the tree still stays green and beautiful....
To me, a tree is just a fun decorating thing I do during December; I don't worship it and I still remember what Christmas is all about!
When it comes to decorating the tree, you decorate a tree with not only those glass balls and pretty lights, but also with ornaments you like, be it, an ornament of an elephant, baby's first Christmas, a saddle, mickey tangled in Christmas lights or an ornament your kid made.
Your tree represents who you are....if you walk into a house and the tree has dog ornaments, you know the people in that house must love dogs...
Ornaments usually hold special meaning, special meaning usually comes from something you're thankful for; which, it turn, you have to thank God about......am I making any sense?
Oh, and yes, we cut down a Christmas tree- we use live trees...call it what you want, but Christmas trees are specifically grown for Christmas, and for every one tree cut two are planted.

The Song of day is Michael Bublé's Santa Buddy...I love the song Santa Baby and Michael Bublé's version is (obviously) a guy version of the song; it's a lot of fun how he changes things to make them more manly.

My older brother; Spencer, is the Scrooge/Grinch of the house. He hates Christmas ("The Grinch hated Christmas - the whole Christmas season. Now, please don't ask why; no one quite knows the reason.")....

I just keep being a merry, jolly, Christmas crazy sister hoping one day I'll rub off on him and he'll join me sing Christmas songs through the house-("And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet {Spencer does have Grinch like feet} ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more. And what happened, then? Well, in Whoville they say - that the Grinch's small heart grew three sizes that day").

Merry Christmas!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 4: Chocolate Orange 'Shells'

2011-12-04T17:18:00.002-05:00

Did you notice? I Christmas-fyed my blog! I couldn't resist, I love Christmas time!!!

Though the temperature outside reminds me of Spring, dreary look reminds me of winter. It's rained on and off today; a perfect day to bake!
Today made Chocolate Orange "shell" cookies.
When totally finished, if you let them cool a few hours (until the chocolate chips and drizzled chocolate is harden) these cookies will remind you of Orange Milano Cookies!!! Enjoy!

Chocolate Orange Shells

2 Cups flour

1-1/2 cups chocolate chips (set 1/2 cup aside for chocolate drizzle)

4 large eggs

1 cup sugar

1 TBS (or more depending on desired taste-I like more!) Orange extract

1 tsp vanilla

2 sticks butter, melted

Powdered Sugar (for sprinkling)

Preheat over to 350. Grease a madelein pan or a cup cake pan (we don't own a madelein pan).

Combine the flour and chocolate chips. Combine everything else except butter. Alternate the flour and butter into the egg mixture; starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Pour batter into madelein pan, or fill cup cake cups, 1/4-1/2 full.

Bake 10-12 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean (cookies may not even be brown when done if using cupcake pan). Cool cookies, melt remaining chocolate chips, drizzle over cookies, then sprinkle cookies with powdered sugar.-If you put the powdered sugar on before the chocolate, the chocolate won't stick to the cookie and will fall off. Yields: 2-1/2 dozen.

Do you know the three gifts that the wise men gave Jesus? Need help? It's Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh.

Do you know the meanings behind these gifts?

Gold is a symbol of "kingship". Although Jesus was a baby the wise men knew that he was Christ the King!

Frankincense was normally burned during worship as an offering to God. This gift shows Jesus is a divine King!

Myrrh is a bitter perfume that was used to embalm the dead. Myrrh represents the sacrificial death of Jesus!

What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus??????????? Claustrophobic!

The song of the day is, O' Holy Night! I love, love, LOVE this song!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas!

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 3: Lebanon Horse Carriage Parade

2011-12-03T18:46:00.001-05:00

I didn't do any baking today (as I told you I wouldn't be in my post here), because today was Lebanon's Horse Carriage Parade. This is my forth year going and watching it. There were roughly 300 horses pulling carriages down the Main Street today; the sounds of the hooves hitting the road, combined with the hundreds of bells, made it sound so magical!!!

*******

I love singing Christmas songs; especially ones that involve the reason for the season, Jesus. Could you imagine hearing angels sing?
During the time of Jesus' birth, shepherds were considered the low lifes and not apart of the 'in crowd' by the higher class, and yet, they were the first to hear about and be invited to Jesus' birth!

"There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger." At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises:

'Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.'"
~Luke 2:8-14

Google Image

Todays song of the day is, Away in a Manger (one of my -many- favorites!)
Merry Christmas!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 2: Thumbprint Cookies

2011-12-02T19:12:00.002-05:00

OK, today is day two of the 25 days of Christmas goodies and today, I made super-duper yummy Thumbprint cookies. So, enjoy!!!

Thumbprint Cookies

Sorry again about the bad picture...I didn't realize that there wasn't a great picture until everyone ate all the cookies.

1/4 cup brown sugar (I was all out of brown sugar so I mixed white sugar w/ molasses)
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 egg yolk
1 cup flour
1/4 tsp salt
Jelly of choice (I used homemade strawberry jelly)
Heat oven to 350. Mix together everything except the flour and salt, mix until creamy. Add the remaining ingredients. Shape into balls, place on baking sheet, press thumb in each, *add enough jelly to thumbprints to fill. Back 10 minutes or until brown. PLEASE make sure to let the cookies cool before eating, the jelly will be VERY hot!!! *You can add the jelly after baking, but I preferred it baked onto the cookie.
Yields: 1-1/2 dozen

Though nativity scenes suggest that there were three wise men, the bible does not say that there were specifically three. Three gifts were given, so it's assumed that there were three wise men.
Also, though Nativity scenes show the magi at the manger the bible tells other wise, after the wise men
met with King Herod, and the star the magi had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was.
"On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh." Matthew 2:11
It also goes on to say,
"When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi." Mathew 2:16
So Jesus might of been toddling around when the magi arrived....

You may be familiar with the Christmas song, The 12 days of Christmas...

On the first day of Christmas,

my true love sent to me

A partridge in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas,

my true love sent to me

Two turtle doves,

And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas,

my true love sent to me

Three French hens,

Two turtle doves,

And a partridge in a pear tree.

And the song goes on for twelve days, so, how many gifts would you get? I added it up for you...
Partridges: 1 × 12 = 12
Doves: 2 × 11 = 22
Hens: 3 × 10 = 30
Calling birds: 4 × 9 = 36
Golden rings: 5 × 8 = 40
Geese: 6 × 7 = 42
Swans: 7 × 6 = 42
Maids: 8 × 5 = 40
Ladies: 9 × 4 = 36
Lords: 10 × 3 = 30
Pipers: 11 × 2 = 22
Drummers: 12 × 1 = 12
Total = 364

Though I mention The 12 Days of Christmas, todays song of the day is O' Little Town of Bethlehem.
Christmas is a day of meaning and traditions, a special day spent in the warm circle of family and friends. Merry Christmas!!!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Day 1: Pumpkin Cupcakes w/Cream Cheese Frosting

2011-12-01T22:13:00.003-05:00

So; today begins the big 25 days of Christmas Goodies! It also begins my sort on Christmas Advent Calender..... hope you enjoy and have fun!!!!We're begin this month with a yummy (and easy to make) cupcake:

Pumpkin Cupcakes w/ Cream Cheese Frosting

Sorry for the picture, it's not the best; I didn't clean up as I went so the table was mess by the end.

4 Cups Cake flour (or 3-1/2 cups flour + 1/2 cup corn starch) 1 tsp baking soda
1 TBS+1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1 TBS ginger
1 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
1 cup unsalted butter, room temp.
2 1/2 cups brown sugar
4 lg eggs
1 cup butter milk (or 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup lemon juice, let sit a minute before adding)
1 1/2 cups pumpkin ( I used frozen homemade puree from a jarrahdale pumpkin)
Preheat oven to 350. Line cupcake pan with paper (I only have 12 papers so I was forced to just use nonstick spray).
Sift together all dry ingredients (except the sugar). In separate bowl cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy; add the eggs.
Now, alternate adding butter mixture and the butter milk to the flour mixture. Once combined add the pumpkin. Divide the batter amongst the cup cake pans and bake 15-20 minutes (until the a tooth pick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out cleans.
Wait until cupcakes are completely cool before frosting.
Frosting:
1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
7oz cream cheese
2 cups powdered sugar (or more for desired spreading thickness)
14/-1/2 tsp vanilla (depends on your taste)
Mix the butter and cream cheese together; add the sugar and then the vanilla.

Yields: 32 Cupcakes

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The word "advent" comes from the Latin word "adventus" which means "arrival" and refers to Jesus' coming. Hundreds of years before Jesus' birth prophets in the Old Testament predicted that a savior would be born.

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)

"But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you, one whose origins are from the distant past. The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the woman in labor gives birth. Then at last his fellow countrymen will return from exile to their own land. And he will stand to lead his flock with the Lord’s strength, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored around the world." Micah 5:2-4 (NLT)

The advent calender has been around for more than 150 years. People have different ways of doing advent calenders; gifts, events, treats, picture, etc... My family has never done an advent calender, I think when I have a family I'd like to figure out one for my family to do; I'm not sure what type, (I'll probably make up one) but I know I really want it to focus on (as cheesy as the saying is) the reason for the season- the birth of Jesus Christ...

OK, so, I love Christmas songs, so I'm going to be posting "the song of the days".
Todays song is, "It's beginning to Look a lot like Christmas", it doesn't matter the singer, from the classic Bing Crosby to a new singer with a classic voice Michael Bublé. It's December, my room decorated, the horse carriage parade's coming up, I have almost all my gifts together, and we'll be getting our tree next week, it is defiantly begging to look a lot like Christmas!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

December 1st is just 9 minutes away!

2011-11-30T23:50:00.001-05:00

It's November 30th and December 1st is practically here!!!!! I wanted to explain how my 25 Days of Christmas Goodies will work and about other things I plan on doing with my blog during the 25 days of Christmas.

First off; I'm not going to post 25 Days of Christmas goodies in a perfect row; you see, I'm saving two days for December 25th so we'll have more that one dessert for Christmas Day....which works out because, one day this month I'll be gone almost all day and another day we'll be cutting our Christmas tree, so I'll be spending that day busy, finding, cutting, and decorating the tree...
In addition to the recipes, I'll be posting a 'song of the day', quotes, bible versus, and other Christmas related things, so those two day with out recipes I'll still post something.

A quick run down on what's been going on around here....
Lets see; Samantha and I moved the hens and barred rooster (the chicks we got this year) into the back coop; separated from the other chickens to prevent bullying. We had been planning on moving them for a while, but before last night became our deadline. Last night was the first snow of the season!!!

So...yeah...Christmas, Christmas, CHRISTmas!!!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Pumpkins as a Natural Dewormer

2011-11-25T13:11:00.001-05:00

I do hope that everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving! I know I did, and surprisingly, even though the food was absolutely delicious (as usual) I didn't over eat this year!!

Chickens love pumpkins (especially when they're broken open). Pumpkins are also really good for chickens! Usually after Halloween people just scoop them off the porch and toss them. But if you have chickens you are doing them a big disfavor by not feeding them the pumpkins, especially the seeds.
After carving the pumpkin for Halloween please do your chickens a big favor and feed the seeds and also the meat from the pumpkin to them. If you break a pumpkin open and give it to your chickens, they will pick the meat and seeds from the pumpkin until all that is left is a thin shell of the skin is left.

Pumpkin is a natural dewormer. Pumpkin seeds have a coating on them that paralyzes the worm and then the worm can be expelled by the digestive action of the gut.
Some people say that you need to dry the seeds first but, the active principle is contained in the seed coat and is damaged by heating. Raw Whole Seeds are the most effective.
I read a lot about using pumpkins for chickens as a dewormer so I got to wondering if it's the same for goats and sheep.
I found one article say it won't work on ruminant animals. Some people said it works for pig and rabbits as a natural dewormer...so, I'm still not sure....what I do know is that pumpkins are very high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and fat, so, dewormer or not, they're still very beneficial to your animals!!!

Since Thanksgiving is over, it is now time for me to focus on Christmas...I love Christmas (I know I always say that, but it is true!) I need to get my room decorated and ready for December...I need to finish choosing deserts for my 25 days of Christmas Goodies....I need to finish getting my Christmas themed blogging ideas together......I need to finish up my Christmas shopping.....

Ta Ta for Now!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

I have something that I need to share!

2011-11-21T21:26:00.000-05:00

First off- Thanksgiving is just a few days away, so, Happy Thanksgiving. As usual, my family and I will head over to my Grannies and have dinner there; I can't wait! I love visiting my Granny and I love eating so it's a win win for me!!
OK, so, yes, something to share...well, November 12th was Ohio's National Poultry Show.
Samantha and I decided to head over to see it (we were quite proud of ourselves driving there; even more so than driving to TN because Columbus is a lot of highways merging and stuff)....so after looking at all the cool poultry and seeing all the booths set up, we headed over to see the 'sales' area (ok, ok, we went to the sales section first), where breeders bring bird that they want to sell (I guess the name explains what goes on at the sales area).
We wanted to buy a goose, but, first off, we didn't have a place to keep it (remember we have tiny call ducks) and I would have had to of held them on the way home (we only brought small dog crates).
But we found another poultry we'd been wanting...runner ducks!!!! We found two blue hens for sale for a great price, but at first the guy wanted to sell a pair (at the Ohio National breeders usually sell in pairs and we didn't want a drake) but, because he didn't have a blue drake he sold us the two hens!
I have a runner duck! I have a runner duck!!! I think she's so pretty!

Right after purchase.

The call ducks on their old makeshift home.

Samantha with her hen.

My hen! Oh; my hair isn't cut it's just tucked in my coat.

Aren't they cute!!! When we first put them in with the calls, the calls acted like the runners were Godzilla! It was both funny and sad at the same time because the runner hens wanted to be with the calls...now, thankfully, they all hangout together.
We're still working on names for them....

A few days ago while on the way home my dad hit a deer with his motorcycle, the deer ran off (bruised but OK) my dad said his bike didn't even move, upon reaching our driveway he pulled in, hit a patch of mud and he fell over....well, on the way to work Friday, he broke his seventh rib when his motorcycle hit a frosty tar 'snake' on the road causing him to fall, hit his head and do a couple somersaults. Thankfully it's his helmet that is broken and not his head...
Spencer is getting ready to go hunting; sadly it looks like dad won't be able to go with him this year. Every time my dad moves he can feel his broken rib clacking together; he even sleeps in him computer chair because it hurts to much to get in and out of bed.

So...now you're caught up...I've been working on my list for my 25 days of Christmas Goodies...I can't wait to begin that!!! Yummies!!!!

Goodnight world, and remember, love, forgive and be thankful!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Portraits

2011-11-15T13:22:00.000-05:00

I know I said that I'd get a picture of the finished pile of pumpkins...but I seem to of forgotten to take a picture of it.......awkward........So; it was a beautiful day a few days ago so, Samantha and I decided to head out and get some "family photos" enjoy!

Samantha and Zorro

Me and Mushu

My little Tianna

Samantha holding Handsome

My 'kids'

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

One Holiday at a Time

2011-11-10T11:02:00.000-05:00

First off- I haven't forgotten, I will get those pictures of how many pumpkins we've brought home, I just have to get them uploaded to my computer.

Now; as everyone knows, I love Christmas; it is the best and my absolute favorite holiday! But something I've noticed over the past few years is how, come November, according to the stores; it's time to start getting ready for Christmas.
Walmart has Christmas music playing already (which for me, is nice, I love Christmas music-though I like to wait for December before I really start listening to it) and we have a local radio station that has started playing Christmas music.
I'm all for Christmas but, doesn't November have a holiday in it? Yeah...oh, what is it....um, something about being thankful for what you have (opposite message of Christmas which is-spend, spend, spend)....oh, yes, Thanksgiving! Yeah, there is a holiday in November, Thanksgiving!

Now; I have never shopped at Nordstrom (remember, I'm a thrift store/sales rack girl). And I'm not supporting or advertising them, but I do love this....sign that is at there doors. I found it by 'stumbling' the other day and I loved it!
Why are there so many people skipping Thanksgiving? It's a great holiday! First off, you don't have to buy anything for it, rather than food. You don't have to decorate.....
Thanksgiving (to me), is about being thankful. Being thankful for what ever you have. I'm thankful for my awesome family, my animals, God and Jesus, I'm thankful that I can freely worship without fear of being arrested or killed. I'm thankful for the free pumpkins we got, I'm thankful my dad has a job now! I'm thankful that my grandma and grandpa helped us out while my dad was out of work. I'm thankful that Samantha was able to get so many grants and scholarships to make going to college possible (she really wanted to go and with out them would not of been able to). I'm super thankful that Samantha and I were still able to go to TN after our original plans fell through. I'm thankful for libraries (I love books)....I'm thankful our grapes did so well (homemade grape jelly is the best!)....I'm thankful Tianna lived.....the list can go on and on.
My point is; don't forget Thanksgiving. Be thankful everyone.

So....I know I just went off about remembering Thanksgiving, but I wanted to add this; come December 1st I'll be starting a 25 days of Christmas thing. I'm going to cook a different dessert everyday for 25 days! Cakes, cookies, pies, fudge, yule logs, yum! It's going to be so much fun!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Work Hard (Or Hardly Workin')?

2011-11-07T19:40:00.000-05:00

The place where I work (well, worked, their last day of the season was October 31) had a bunch of left over pumpkins in their "store" so they asked (just like last year) if Samantha and I wanted to come and get them for our animals. They also asked if we wanted to get some pumpkins from their 'pick-your-own' patch. And if we wanted to get some corn from there corn maze. We of course said yes!
So last Friday, Samantha and I went and filled the truck with all their pumpkins from the store; our truck was full-both the bed and the cab!!! We were able to get (when we got home we discovered it was) an entire wheel barrel full of corn!

Fridays Haul of Pumpkins

We set our clocks back yesterday so it's getting darker earlier. Not sure how I feel about this; if it was cold and ugly out, I'd be fine with is because then I would hunker down and watch a movie...but when it's pretty out having it get dark at six is frustrating!

Yesterday (same with today and the past four days) was so nice; so after church, right before chores, I decided to go for a ride. I took Quartermaine into the field so I could trot him. It was so much fun; but man am I sore today!
Today after Samantha got back from college, we went and got more pumpkins- we got an entire cab full and half a bed full. BUT (using the wheel barrel to show how much) after two hours pulling corn from the standing stalks (dry corn leaves are evil!) we brought home six wheel barrel fulls! How awesome is that!!!! We are so thankful for the owners of that farm to let us 'clean up' some of their 'leftovers'!! I'll get a picture of the huge pile tomorrow- we had to unload in the dark! See, some people would wonder why I would work so hard to get pumpkins and corn...my thought is; this isn't work- I'm hardly working because I'm doing this with love for my animals...I doing this to feed my animals for free, all I have to do is gather everything....

The goats (and sheep) love pumpkins!

Handsome and Naomi enjoying a pumpkin!

Handsome's adorably pumpkin stained face

Awol and Handsome sharing a pumpkin

Even one of the barn kittens (now almost full grown) is enjoying the pumpkins!

Who knew animals enjoyed playing Twister!

Just plain cute!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Life's Natural Highs

2011-11-04T21:51:00.000-04:00

Today I wanted to blog about life's natural highs; you know, those moments in life when you feel absolutely feel at peace, happy, content and relaxed....
Falling in love
When your dog or cat wants to be with you
Hearing your favorite song on the radio
Lying in bed listening to the rain outside
Long conversations late at night
Laughing
Giggling
Running through the sprinklers
Laughing at an inside joke
Laughing for no reason
Laughing till your stomach hurts
Friends
Having someone tell you you're beautiful
Watching the sun rise or set
Laughing at yourself
Gazing at the stars
Eating what you want with no guilt
When you finally achieve something you've work toward
Garden fresh fruits and vegetables

These are just a few of life's natural highs...what are some of your life's natural highs?

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Just for Fun

2011-10-25T11:49:00.000-04:00

So; the first four words you see 'describe' you, eh? Well, the first four I saw were, Passionate, Mental, Patient, and Restless....and the next four I saw were Elegant, Caring, Sweet, and Thoughtful.....So..um...I'm a tad bit worried if 'mental' describes me....

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

To see someone worthwhile

2011-10-20T21:48:00.000-04:00

First off I love Disney Movies. Always have, always will.
One of my favorites is Mulan. And there is a quote in it towards the end that I think speaks true to everyone at one point in their life.
"Maybe what I really wanted was to prove that I could do things right. So that when I looked in the mirror I'd see someone worthwhile. But I was wrong. I see nothing."
I was talking to my mom about how I wish I had more impressive things to talk about. And how I wish I could impress people....and she said that I only needed to worry about impressing myself and God...that's the thing, I don't impress myself. Sure, I've done things that made me feel proud of myself but, nothing that I felt impressed by.
"So that when I looked in the mirror I'd see someone worthwhile."
When I look in the mirror...I don't see me, I see, as the quote goes, "nothing".
I guess that is one of the many flaws I have. I compare myself to others way to quickly and easily. Doctors, military, actors, singers, dancers, models, college students, welders, mechanics, artists and veterinarians. These are things people are impressed by. They're impressed by experiences, degrees, beauty, careers and possessions.
I've been on a plane once in my life heading to DC (thanks to my Aunt).Growing up my family went camping maybe once a year and about three times (total) we went to South Carolina to visit my grandma. I've been on one road trip that didn't involve my parents and that was with my sister this past year to Tennessee. I took pottery lessons, once a week, for about six months when I was 14ish. When I was like 5ish I took swimming lessons for a few months at the YMCA. And two years ago I took a 6 week course of horsemanship. That's all the lessons I could take (remember I have four siblings and lessons are not cheap).
There you have it. Everything I've done and everywhere I've been.
Not a lot to be impressed by....according to the world and media.
I have to work on being impressed by the things that are impressive.
I know how to ride a horse. I can milk a goat with no trouble. I know how to grow food from things that look like tiny rocks. I can crochet almost anything from a toy to a blanket. I've raised several kids (goat kind not human). I've raised chickens from chicks. I'm a great cook. I'm a great listener. I'm a caring person who puts others first. I'm have a great passion for animals. I'm really good at taking pictures. I've kept a journal since I can remember. I have a blog. I don't need to wear makeup or fancy clothing to feel pretty (though I won't lie, those things do help and I love getting dressed up; after all, I don't dress up much living on a farm). I'm great with medical situations when it comes to our animals (to a point; I could not be a vet).
"Maybe what I really wanted was to prove that I could do things right. So that when I looked in the mirror I'd see someone worthwhile. But I was wrong. I see nothing."
This quote haunts me, every time I look in the mirror I always think; am I worth while or am I nothing.

"Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."~Luke 12-7

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." ~Romans 12:1-2

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us..." ~Romans 12:6

I am wonderfully made! (See Psalms 139)...when you look in the mirror what do you see...better yet, who do you see? The first song Mulan sings is 'Reflections' and there is a line in it, "Who is that girl I see staring straight back at me, why is my reflections someone I don't know."...to be cheesy and say another line from song from Mulan, you need to be true to your heart. Stop trying to conform to the pattern of this world!!

God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus.~ Max Lucado.

So I need to work on being impressed with myself...oh well, I guess it's better than thinking too highly of myself.
I know that God loves me for me, and I know He has a plan for me.....

Stay warm my dear blog readers!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Wind

2011-10-16T14:50:00.000-04:00

Today is extremely windy, I feel as if I could blow away, both in body and mind. I've been so frustrated about things lately....small things mostly, but there are a few big things that just erk me...

My mind refuses to concentrate on things that I need to concentrate on.

There are times I feel what I am doing is useless...that I'm going no where....I'm not filled with things to talk about; I don't have experiences to share.....All Samantha does now is talk about college, and I try to handle it, but, I can only hear about the funny thing so-n'-so did in class, or the paper that's due or the dumb thing the teacher said so many times!!!
As I sit hear, knowing I made the right decision not to go to college...I still get jealous that Samantha's at least doing something with her life at the moment...while I'm older than her and all I can do is sit and wait...
It's very frustrating!!

All I can do is keep praying, saving, and asking God "What am I suppose to learn from this? What are you trying to teach me.".....after all, everything God does is all apart of a bigger and better plan...
I can't control everything (though I try) so having to wait and rely on God is a big learning opportunity.
And that's something a lot of people miss, they want something to happen NOW, so they make it happen NOW rather than waiting on Gods timing and plans.
Wait on God's timing....and really ask yourself, Does God really want this for me or do I want it so bad that I convinced myself that this is Gods plan for me...

Really think and really pray. Have patience and wait. God has His plans for you and trust me, His plans for you are much better than your plans for you!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Fall

2011-10-13T10:16:00.001-04:00

Hello dear friends!
The weather was crazy here for a while; we had 80 degree weather!!! Now it's back to being chilly, but that's fine with me.
Mom finished cleaning up the garden; the fence is all up; the corn stalks all pulled, the weeds all mowed; and the finished result looks great!!!
I cleaned the chicken coop out; the smell afterwards reminded me of fair because I bedded them in the shavings left over from fair....I miss fair. This coming year (both Samantha and I agree) is going to be kind of sad because we're not going to have animals there; I know I never had an animal there in the sense of showing it, but some of the animals Samantha showed we shared, and I helped her out a lot caring for them at fair. We'll still enjoy going and walking around and seeing some of the shows, but it's going to be bittersweet...
There's not much going on here, I'm working on getting some Christmas gifts done so I don't have to worry about them as Christmas gets closer.
The horses destroyed part of there fencing...another thing to add to the to-do list...
Spencer has been working on his barn. The boys have been putting dry wall up in there room.
Everyone is fine....I would like to go hiking soon...get some nice pictures of fall.

Happy Fall Y'all!!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

October

2011-10-03T12:38:00.000-04:00

Ah, October, how your crisp fall mornings make me want to bury myself deeper into my covers. And how you beautiful fall colors make me wish I was great at painting...the crunch of the leaves beneath my feet; the crisp air; the wild animals are heading south or finishing up hiding food for the winter months.
As I have stated many times before; I don't mind fall like some...to me; it's time to prepare for a few months of rest. A time to watch those movies; or play those games. A time to finally get together with family and friends. A time to crochet or bake cookies....fall time leads to winter time; which to me; winter time is family time.

I don't mind Halloween...I think adults came up with it just so they could have a reason to play dress up again...the one thing I hate about it is how people will focus on death and blood...murder...it's just...creepy and wrong to me...why are you celebrating a holiday that 'worships' those things? Now; you can do witches and ghosts...goblins and zombies...but...draw a line people!! I don't have a problem with people decorating there homes to be scary; spider webs, mummies, gravestones...go ahead and decorate scary; but again, draw a line!!!

This week is a bit strange. Saturday it was in the 50's and slowly through this week it's warming up and by next Saturday it'll be almost 80! Crazy weather!!!

Samantha and I are getting ready to look for a baby doll ram to breed our ewes to...that's going to be an experience!
Let's see here....we're looking at the calender figuring out when to breed the does...we're thing of breeding Annabell any day now; so she'll be due in March....and then we'll breed Dorothy next month so she'll be due in April...that's the plan, so, we'll see how it plays out.
It's a nice day today so I'm gonna try to get some things done outside.
I've made a ginormous to-do list before winter; I'll try to get those things done this week, (I'll post the big to-do list at the end of my blog).
Samantha and I are planning on going to the Ohio National Poultry Show in November- not to show; just to look around and have fun and shop (breeders are there selling ducks, chick...well, poultry. Along with equipment-cages, feeders, wormers, etc.). We're really excited to go; this is where we got our Call Ducks from. We've invited friends to come with us....not sure if they'll be able to make it yet or not...
Alright, now time for my to-do list...

Muck out does stall-add fresh bedding
Muck out bucks stall-add fresh bedding
Muck out chicken coop-add fresh bedding
Clean all the comb-webs out of goat stalls and chicken coops
Clean and hook up the heat lamps
Build a duck house
(I can't do this, my dad and brothers have to) Fix the bare spot on the animal barn roof
Muck out horse barn
Clear the path for the horse barn door; so we can close it
Fix horse fencing
Put up hay rack in 'kids'/sheep stall
Put up hay rack in bucks stall
Clean tack room
Put up plastic over two broken windows in horse barn
Make a gate to block Fubar and Snafu from the horse hay
Finish cleaning up garden
Mow yard one last time
Weed-whack fence row one last time
Weed flower beds one last time

Alright...I think that's all for the out side of the home; time for the inside....

Dust from top to bottom in kitchen
Dust from top to bottom in living room
Dust from top to bottom in my bedroom
Sweep and really mop the kitchen floor
Sweep and really mop the living room floor
Sweep and really mop my bedroom floor
Clean kitchen fan blades
Clean living fan blades
Clean my bedroom fan blades
Clean out and orginize my closet

...that's all I can think of for now....so; I hope you have a wonderful day everyone!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

The Ducks are Happy.

2011-09-30T13:47:00.000-04:00

So my last blog was about not worrying; I wanted to add this (I'm not sure where I heard this or found this; but it's a great reminder);
Though you hear nothing, He is speaking. Though you see nothing, He is acting. With God there are no accidents. Every incident is intended to bring us closer to Him!!!

So; what's been going on around the farm?
Hmm, well; we finally have the duck pen made and the ducks moved to it...though right now they only have a temporary shelter so we still have to build that..but either way the ducks are happy with there bigger place.
Mom almost has the garden all cleaned up...other than that nothing much.
I work all day tomorrow; 11:30-11:00...yeah?...yes, yeah, because I need the money...

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Don't Worry

2011-09-29T13:17:00.000-04:00

We worry....we worry about EVERYTHING! Why? Honestly, why? Would God save you so you can just worry!??
Romans 8:14 says; "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God."
We are the children of God! Would a father let bad come to his child? I think not.
Now; I'm not say that; as a christian we will never have trials or pain. What I'm saying is that when we face trials we don't need to worry or fear.
Instead of looking at it like; why is God doing this to me, look at it like; OK; what is God trying to teach me?

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Awol

2011-09-25T19:10:00.000-04:00

Oh, little Awol; how you've grown...here are some adorable picture of my boy...oh, p.s. sorry two of the pictures refused to upload upright, so, have fun joining in with everyone that looks at this blog turn your head to the right.

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

First Day of Autumn

2011-09-21T11:29:00.001-04:00

This Friday is the first day of Autumn..so fall begins.
Unlike my mom; I love fall, but then again, I love all the seasons. My mom hates the fall because winter is to follow and she hate winter.
You see; I look at winter time as a time to rest and relax; a time to spend all day reading books, watching movies, cooking, crocheting, doing crafts, and playing board games. During the spring and summer I can't do any of those things because I don't enjoy doing nothing, and when the sun's shining I want to get something done. That's why (unlike mom) I'd prefer winter to be dreary with little sun.
...I've gotten off topic, where was I? Oh, yes, fall time.
Starting this Saturday; the 24, through the end of October, I'll be working every Saturday at a local farm for there Fall Farm Days. Earlier this week I spent 4 1/2 hours washing, weighing, and pricing pumpkins for them.
During October, I enjoy seeing certain decorations...I side with more of the harvest themes rather than death and murder scenes....I don't mind some classic halloween mixed in; witches, vampires, frankesteins; but nothing grusome...I found all these picture through google image...

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Learn from Yesterday

2011-09-19T10:32:00.000-04:00

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Pictures from the barn yard

2011-09-16T22:17:00.000-04:00

I love taking pictures (as I'm sure you know) and I love sharing picture (again; I'm sure you know), so on nice days I take tons of pictures of my animals (a.k.a. my baby's). So here are some updated pictures...

Abilene after eating hay.

Gemma and her airplane ears!

Tianna is growing up; isn't she beautiful!!

Abilene and Esmeralda

Handsome with the kittens playing under-hoof.

Sweet Naomi.

One of the barn kittens.

Snafu sleeping in the warm sun.

Dorothy and Tianna-mother and daughter eating hay.

Sophie taking a nap.

Sophie chilling with the kittens.

Tianna and a kitten.

The chickens eating watermelon.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

2 a.m. Friend

2011-09-14T21:26:00.001-04:00

Church this past Sunday the pastor was talking about how Christians aren't meant to be alone in the walk; and how the bible talks about doing things together.
The church I go to is a 'baby church'; its grand opening was back in...April (or around that time).
They're getting ready to start catalysts communities (small groups), where they pray people will make friendships deeper than that of a normal friend, a person they liked to call a 2 a.m. friend. Someone that if at 2 a.m you needed support, someone there to talk to, to hug you, to help you, this person would be there asap.
And I just it a very interesting idea...really making me stop and look at the friendships I have so far...causing me to wonder if this person or that person would be mad I called so late....it's an interesting topic...

I made and canned grape jelly this week- what so and so yummy!! I also canned a quart of grape juice...we still have a ton of grapes to pick, so I'll be making more jelly or juice this week.
Gemma had her first heat cycle this past week. I rode Quartermaine again this week. Mom's started cleaning up the garden...
I feel like I'm forgetting something....oh, yes, my mom, dad, and sister, Samantha, went to the pre-screening of Courageous- it's a great movie! A must see for dads...really, everyone needs to see it! It's family friendly (a Christian movie) and has a point to it, the movie has a meaning!!! As a note though, bring tissues if you're a cryer because I'm not one who gets choked up easily but I was fighting tears at times.

This weekend is the wool gathering ( a place where spinners, weavers, shearers get together and sell items/teach), I can't wait to go again!!!
Hehe, I wanted to share this a friend shared...

To all the ladies who are in a hurry to have a boyfriend or get married, a piece of Biblical advice: " Ruth patiently waited for her mate Boaz." While you are waiting on YOUR Boaz, don't settle for any of his relatives; Broke-az, Po-az, Lyin-az, Cheating-az, Dumb-az, Drunk-az, Cheap-az, Lockedup-az, , Goodfornothingaz, Lazyaz, and especially his third cousin Beatinyouaz. Wait on your Boaz and make sure he respects Yoaz....

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Truffles

2011-09-14T13:30:00.001-04:00

These super yummy truffles are quick and easy to make. They are great for parties or gifts. These sweet treats have an easy portion control and can be enjoyed on occasion.

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Truffles
1 pkg. (8 squares) Bakers Semi-Sweet Chocolate ( I was out of bakers chocolate so I uses chocolate chips)
1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
1 tub (8 oz.) Whipped Topping, thawed
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Microwave chocolate in large microwaveable bowl on high for two minutes or until chocolate is almost melted, stirring after one min. Stir until chocolate is completely melted.
Stir in peanut butter until well blended. Cool to room temperature. Gently stir in cool whip. Refrigerate one hour.
Scoop peanut butter mixture with melon baller or teaspoon, then shape into 1-inch balls. Roll in sugar. Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Variations:

Instead of rolling these truffles in the powdered sugar, coat them with one (or more) of the following coatings: unsweetened cocoa powder, chopped peanuts (or chopped pecans-which is what I used), multi-colored sprinkles, chocolate rice crispies (or plain ones) or shredded coconut.

Gabrielle W.

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ~1 Corinthians 10:31

Let's take a ride

2011-09-09T20:59:00.000-04:00

Today Samantha and I went horseback riding; Samantha on Tayla and I was on Quartermaine; Samantha rode western, I rode English. It was a lot of fun; the first time in a LONG time we rode together. The only thing is that we had (yet another) stray cat appear last night and was still here today; this cat (a black and white; intact, male) is the sweetest thing EVER! He has a limp and you can feel in his right shoulder where it was broken at one point...well, he followed us (not afraid of the horses) as we rode, so we couldn't stop because he kept wanting to rub against the horses legs! He also, almost, got trampled as he ran through the round pen (where we had the rest of the horses penned as we rode).

Mom's getting me cheese cloth tonight; which I need to make grape jelly and cheese. I've never made either so, this will be an adventure.

We discovered today that the kittens like to play onto of the chicken run; not just on the frame, but on the wire...it's really cute, but I keep hoping I put enough staples and zip ties in it to keep it fall braking apart and having the kitten fall into the chicken pen.

Tomorrow my sister and I are going to The Corn Festival; we've never been so this is going to be fun. We might meet up with some friends there too.

After we're going to head into town to TSC (we're out of chicken food), and I'm going run into Goodwill to see what they have.

I now have two recipes I want to get on here...I just need to get to it...

I have decided to dry Dorothy up. She's milk (at most) half a quart a day. She was never a good milker this year (since she had Tianna early). I've tried increasing her feed, which only caused her to take longer to eat (she's a slow eater). And I figure since I'm paying at least thirteen bucks for a bag off feed, and then (ignoring the fact I have to go out and milk her ever morning), I have to wash the pail, which uses soap...it's just not worth it...
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

I still miss her....

2011-09-08T14:35:00.001-04:00

Well, it's been fours days today since we had to put Lywny down...when we do chores there's a unspoken hushed tone....it's the time of grieving where we really don't want to talk about the fact she's gone...We realized yesterday that we never got a lock of her mane-which really makes us upset...at least we have pictures...it's hard to "get on with life" when some thing so dear to you passes....it freaks me out even starting to imagine a close family member passing. I know that since my family believes in God that their souls are saved and that I'll see them again someday, but, it still hurts just the same.

It rained all day yesterday, a good day to get things done; a good day to accomplish tasks and check off items on lists...what did I do? What great things did I finish? Nothing...I sketched a "ghost image" onto canvas yesterday; it's where I take a pencil and draw what I want to paint, a sort of outline, to make sure that the image I'm thinking of will look right, and painted it today ( I'll try to get a picture of it and upload it for y'all to see).
I have another recipe to blog about; I'll try to get it up tomorrow...

I wish I could blog about something exciting; going hiking, skiing taking some lessons or classes, buying something neat...or even putting up more fencing, fixing a gate or canning food...but I have nothing. Just like today, my life is cloudy and lonely feeling lately. Samantha has college (which is all she talks about), one of my best friends is busy working a lot and she's also the one getting married, so she is always busy (I haven't seen her since July 15), my other best friend (though home schooled) is still in high school so she's pretty busy.

It gets to be very frustrating when hanging out with family and siblings and cousins are talking about this and that to our aunts and uncles. Talking about college, classes, professors or that one funny kid in the class...and me? "So, Gabrielle what have you been up to?"....me, "nothing".
Oh, well, I know someday I'll be wishing I could time travel back to now and enjoy the lack of excitement..

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

This is hard for me to Write...

2011-09-05T10:55:00.001-04:00

....I really don't want to type this post....the words refuse to form sentences in my head.......but I need to get it over with..... Yesterday....we had the vet out to put Lynwy down.....the antibiotics didn't work; and she had lost even more weight; she was just skin and bones...
My Aunt and Uncle were down visiting my Granny, so mom, Samantha and I went to visit and dad stayed to help the vet....we just can't be out there...it broke our heart enough to know that she was going to be dead by night fall.....
We were trying to find someone with a backhoe on Saturday, but it was late when we finally found someone (friend of a friend) so we just planned on doing it Sunday-yesterday.
Dad said when the vet came out that he was one hundred percent positive we were making the right decision.
I want to share this poem my sister found...it's the best way to describe what we're feeling... I went through and changed the hes and hims to hers and shes.

Last Gift ~ Autumn Mann

She looked to me, eyes beseeching,

A tired soul, not quite reaching.

... Her time had come to move along.

To ease his pain I must be strong.

A loyal friend, a quiet ride,

Who always showed a gentler side.

The time had come to say goodbye,

To let her go, and let her fly.

Her youth was gone; she could not soar,

Her body aged, her health so poor.

A final gift had I to share,

A quiet death with love and care.

You will be deeply missed Lynwy!

I'll see you again someday Lynwy! You were such a beautiful horse! I love you so much; say hello to Isobell and Sugar for me! Have fun playing in those pastures in heaven!

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

The Time in Between

2011-09-03T12:16:00.000-04:00

You were there when your Father said

Let there be light

You obeyed when He whispered

Son, You have to leave tonight

To spend nine months in a mothers womb

Three days in a borrowed tomb

(Chorus One)

But it’s the time in between

That brings me to my knees

Knowing you came for me

And all that I can't be

I'm amazed, so amazed

And I thank You for the time in between

Don't take much for this crazy world

To rob me of my peace

And the enemy of my soul

Says You’re holding out on me

So I stand here lifting empty hands

For you to fill me up again

(Chorus Two)

But it’s the time in between

That I fall down to my knees

Waiting on what You'll bring

And the things that I can't see

I know my song’s incomplete

Still I'll sing in the time in between

So many ways

Your love has saved the day

And I'm grateful for them all

(Chorus 3)

But it’s the time in between

The middle of two thieves

That says everything

It’s the reason I believe

I'm amazed, so amazed

And I thank you for the time in between

Oh Lord, I thank you for the time in between

~By Francesca Battistelli

This song gives me chills.
The time in between is where we are right now; earth. As the song says, "You obeyed when He whispered Son, You have to leave tonight."
Jesus came from Heaven- from a place so perfect and amazing we can't even imagine! He came from heaven to earth, knowing what His purpose was. Jesus, the only perfect being on earth, came to die for me a sinner...the idea of someone dieing for me makes me sad, but then thinking what Jesus went through for me (and you) just...it makes me ashamed of my self. It makes me want to better my self, it makes me want to make Jesus and God proud. Like a six year old at his first soccor game looks into the crowd to see if his parents are smiling (and proud), I want to know that I'm making God and Jesus proud...that I'm not letting them down, wasting my life...letting Jesus die in vain.

And the enemy of my soul Says You’re holding out on me, So I stand here lifting empty hands, For you to fill me up again. Have you ever had a moment like this? Standing there looking in the mirror you hear "He made others pretty and made you plain". Heading to you job you hear "He favors others over you giving them six figure salary's and giving you a five figure one." Even standing in church you hear, "He gave them beautiful voices and gave you one of a howler monkey." Satan's demons are sly creatures, they know your weakness and they want you to doubt and slowly start turning from God; after all, that's their job.
When you start feeling plain compared to others; first, stop comparing, then (as the song says) talk to God! Raise your hands and pour out your heart! God made everything beautiful! God made you how he wanted you to be! And money; so yeah, they make more, but she never has time for her kids, where you are with them all the time. Again pray! And don't be ashamed, cut coupons, shop sales, Good Will, and hit yard sales! Singing....I love singing, and I can sing, but I'm the one who sounds like nail on a chalk board....but God doesn't care; the bible has so many versus about singing to God; God loves it when we sing...and again, remember, God made you how He wanted you to be!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Friends

2011-09-02T10:50:00.000-04:00

Today I wanted to blog about how thankful I am that God gave me such a wonderful mother; and awesome sister and gave me a great love and appreciation for animals.

Growing up, I never had many friends...one or two, here and there; but they usually had a ton of friends and I was always put on the back burner, a sort of 'back up' friend...you know; if they're not busy and they're bored they'd call me and ask if I wanted to hang out.
So now; at the age of 21, I've come to accept that I may never have super close friends that always want to hang out (like my brothers have).
Sometimes I wonder if God knew that this is how my life would play out (He does know everything) because I was blessed to have the coolest mom; not just a mom, but a friend...I love hanging out with my mom, she is a friend I never had, she's there to talk to, to go shopping with, to see a movie....just like my sister, Samantha.
Samantha and I are (roughly) 19 months apart. We have always been close; liking the same movies, animals, books, songs...colors. She IS my best friend.
All my life I've had a love and passion for animals.
When all I could do is crawl, mom says, I'd chase the cats around the house wanting to hold and pet them. I loved Zoboomafoo and The Wild Thornberries. Every time we'd go to the library mom had to limit the books I could get because I'd have a stack of 30 or more books about animals.
While everyone else was wanting a Game Boy Color, I wanted a cat.
For a while; I wanted to own my own zoo; lions, lemurs, tigers, elephants, crocs, etc.
There was a year I was kind of mad at God for making me love animals so much; they cost money, they limit what you can do, and it makes me sad to think about any of my animals dieing.
But then...I realized how much I NEED my animals...when I feel alone, hated, ugly, useless...when I am mad, upset, sad, scared...they're there.
Most girls have a friend to call; I never did, I only had my animals (there are some things you don't want to talk to your sister and mom about).
And when I felt sad or angry (whatever), and I'd bury my face in my cat or dog...goat, horse, sheep...etc. I'd get a comforting feeling about me...like God was holding me in the biggest and best hug one could get...I know we're not suppose to need anything other than God, but...every time I look at my animals I remember how amazing God is...when I feel the love for my animals, I can't even begin to imagine the love for ones child...and then when I think about Jesus...it almost makes me feel sick with sadness that fills my heart...
God loves me more than I can love anything, and He sent his son to die for me!
God knows me better than I know myself. He knows humans need friendships, that it's not good for us to be alone.
God blessed me with two best friends that I know will always be there for me, friends that will never put me on the back burner, and will never use me as a backup friend.

Sometimes we need to step back and try to think about why God has your life playing out the way it is.
"For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~Jeremiah 29:10-12

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

A Godly Women

2011-08-31T12:06:00.002-04:00

I wanted to blog today about what I feel are attributes of a Godly Women along with things to remind yourself about how much God loves you for you.

First- read Proverbs 31:10-31-"The Wife of Noble Character".
"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised"~ Proverbs 31:30
She does not call attention to her physical beauty. "Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They trusted God and accepted the authority of their husbands. ~1 Peter 3:3-5. Now; some think that this verse teaches us that physical beauty is somehow sinful or that we should pay any attention to our outward appearance. What it condemned is taking pride in God-given beauty, giving excessive attention to physical beauty while neglecting matters of the heart.
To God, my soul is worth more than the price of the whole world, ( "For God so loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." ~John 3:16)
She accepts the negative facts about herself.
She learns that she was uniquely created for God’s pleasure. (Revelations 4:11 NLT)
She considers homemaking a high and noble call.-After all a stay at home mom is someone who's raising the worlds next generations; the worlds next leaders, teachers, and pastors. A woman's first duty is the making and keeping of her home. Many a modern woman chooses a career, hires a baby-sitter, and rushes her children through childhood so that she can be free to pursue her selfish interests. The Bible teaches that women are to be "keepers at home" (Titus 2:1-5). Now- I know some women out there have to work to support their families; I understand that their are many women that would love to be stay at home moms but there husbands left them so now they have to work- I get it.
She is a woman of prayer and devotion to God.
She is a women who does not base her value of what others think or what she thinks of herself. ~My value is determined by how God views me.
She knows that God never makes mistakes.
She knows that she doesn't have to perform to earn God's love or favor (Ephesians 1:4-6)

Now I'd like to share some poems I enjoy about being a Godly Women;

A woman of beauty

A woman of grace

A woman of excellence

Beholding God's face

She walks with the Lord

With integrity

Knowing her purpose

And destiny
*

No matter what happens

She walks in God's love

Reflecting the beauty

Of her Father above.

~M.S.Lowndes

************

The Bible speaks to everyone who follows in the Way,

But some parts are specific in the things they have to say.
The fathers are encouraged, and those alone in life,

And there are admonitions for the mother and the wife.

I always linger over these; they speak to my estate.

They offer me direction in the small things and the great.

To be a godly woman is the goal I want to reach,

And so I need to study what the Scriptures have to teach.

A woman who is called to be a mother and a wife,

Who takes the cross and purposes to live a godly life,

Is ever growing in the faith she’s chosen to profess,

And there are certain qualities she covets to possess.

The godly woman stays at home, her duties keep her there.

She rises while it yet is night and gives herself to prayer.

Her days are full of service and her heart is full of love;

Her mind is full of gratitude and praise for God above.

Though not employed outside the home, she has no mind to shirk,

She eats not bread of idleness, but fruit of honest work.

Her brother and her sister, her parents and her neighbor,

Her husband and her children share the blessing of her labor.

The love her husband feels for her is easy to reflect,

And she not only loves him, but she gives him her respect.

In her, his heart may safely trust; she does him only good;

When he confides his inner thoughts, he finds them understood.

She’s mindful, too, of Eden, where the woman was deceived.

She knows it’s not her place to teach, as others have believed,

Nor to usurp authority, but listen with subjection,

In meekness and humility, accepting his direction.

When all the church assembles in a solemn, formal way,

The godly woman listens to what the brethren have to say;

And if she hears a statement made that makes her sit up straighter,

The question forming in her mind she asks her husband later.

Still, there is a congregation where her voice is often heard,

And her children are attentive as she teaches them the Word,

When she sits within her house, and when she walks along the way;

When she lays them down at night and when she rises with the day.

The godly woman is discreet, not seeking other’s praise;

She’s modest in appearance, and she’s modest in her ways.

She isn’t prone to gossip, but her neighbors know she cares,

And any help her hands can give is certain to be theirs.

The godly woman isn’t gay; she’s left that all behind.

She’s pleasant and she’s cheerful, but she has a sober mind.

Her covered head, her simple dress, her modest mien are one;

Her singular adornment is the good that she has done.

When years of faithful laboring have bent her body low,

She’ll teach the younger women in the way that they should go.

And verily, I say to you, she’ll have a rich reward.

Oh, make of me that woman, Lord! And guide me in that way.

Behold, thou art the potter, and I the softened clay.

Encourage me where I am right; rebuke me where I’m wrong.

I read these Scriptures often and I ponder on them long.

~Janice Etter~

Oh; as a sort of p.s. I was looking over my blog and I realized that I have been posting a ton of posts! I guess it's official, I can't ignore the facts....I'm addicted to blogging.
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Lynwy

2011-08-30T13:05:00.000-04:00

Lynwy isn't feeling well; and has gone hill since Thursday. She's not eating; she doesn't go to the field with the other horses; and she acts like it hurts to move.
We had the vet out yesterday; and her vitals were normal; but she's dangerously thin (her body's starting to use her muscle to function)...he drew blood and we'll be getting the results back sometime today....the vet's worried it's kidney failure; lets pray it's not!

On a side note; we pulled up all of our green bean plants now; in a few days our grapes will be ready for harvest. We still have yet to get any tomatoes. The past few days have been really nice; low 80's and at night it's hit 63- but this coming weekend it's suppose to be hot and humid at 90-something.
I was bless and able to work 10 hours at a local farm Saturday- though it was a long day on a concrete floor I can use the money! Actually this past weekend was a great one; I worked 10 hours; went to church with mom and Samantha on Sunday and saw a movie with my family Sunday too...

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Happy Sunday

2011-08-28T13:36:00.000-04:00

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Canning Time!!!!!

2011-08-26T11:12:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first day we started canning; on the canning list? Green Beans...lots of green beans! So far we have 14 quarts canned; with at least 14 more to come.
We've been freezing zucchini and yellow squash slices.
Our corn did awful this year-at very least there are 100 stalks and of the 100 stalks 20 had corn growing on them...
We still have yet to get any tomatoes. We have 20 large plants; all with tomatoes on them; but they're taking forever to turn red!!
So far; our watermelon, cantaloupe and dessert melon are growing well. Along with our grapes and, sort of, our pears.
We didn't get any strawberries this year. Our apple trees have no apples....I lost track of time and never harvested our blackberries-so they went to waste... NOT OUR YEAR!!

Mom and I (because we're the ones that do ALL the work) decided that next year we're shrinking the garden size. We're going to grow everything we've been growing; but in a smaller amount...enough to enjoy fresh from the garden; and maybe can and freeze a little; but not near as much as we have been. The reason we've decided this is; first; as I said mom and I do all the work...sure when the year begins; dad and Spencer help by tilling, and they, along with Samantha, help plant the seeds...and sure when the seeds first sprout they help how and weed....but Que in 90 degree weather and only mom and I are in the garden. Que in lots of weeding, again, only mom and I...Que in harvesting a ton of zucchini, squash and green beans, again, mom and I.
Remember, we planted to feed seven people for at least half a year...that's a lot of food!!
And while we're doing all this work in the garden; only mom and I mow the yard; only mom weed whacks; only mom and I do the dishes, laundry, and make dinner (though sometimes Samantha will make dinner)...and while we're doing all the work; everyone else is doing things they want to do.
Samantha is working her horse; dad is working on his motorcycle or riding his bike; Spencer is doing his projects...sure Remington and Colton didn't want a garden; but they sure do enjoy eating the fresh produce!
So, yeah, mom and I are tired of watching our summer fly by with us only doing hard work...We're also tired of putting in a lot of time (and money) and not have anything grow...we're still going to garden, just is smaller portions.

Samantha started college Monday....I have conflicting feelings about it...yes, I'm happy my sister was able to get the ACT, get accepted into Wilmington College, and most of all; I'm happy she was able to get a lot of grants so she won't be as deep in debt...
But, I....*sighs*....she comes home talking about this and that; talking about her professors, her classes, the people, the clubs, the experience....and here I am, day after day, same old same old...
Now yes; I don't want to go to college (I want to be a stay at home mom and raise buffalo and breed horses), but Samantha talks like this is the best thing ever...like it's a big deal... I don't know....Everyone acts like it's a big deal; like if you don't go you're wasting your life, or you're not smart...it's just frustrating and depressing...especially since I don't have but a few friends (all of which have countless friends and are always busy) I don't go out ever....I don't ever have anything to talk about...

But...I'm keeping my head high (well at least trying)...God has a plan for me, I just have to be patient.....
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Reminders in Quotes

2011-08-24T16:27:00.006-04:00

I love quotes; the world loves quotes..who doesn't love quotes? Here are just a few of the many I enjoy~,

Never confuse fashion and style. Fashion relies on unattainable looks on women with unrealistic bodies. Style is about utilizing the best aspect of you, ~ Stacy London
It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.~ George Washington
A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven. ~Charles R. Swindoll
Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.
Bumble bees are much faster than john deer tractors.
Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You. ~Dr. Suess
All that's necessary for the forces of evil to win in the world is for enough good men to do nothing. ~Edmund Burke
Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened. ~Billy Graham
The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me. ~Billy Graham

What are some of your favorite quotes? Please feel free to comment and share!!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Pop-up Thunderstorms

2011-08-23T19:47:00.002-04:00

All day yesterday there was a warning out for pop-thunderstorms- and for the longest time the rain kept missing us...
After a while though; it started to mist; then sprinkle then rain....and then a light rain turned into a good down pour; which we were very excited about because our pastures and garden needed rain...
But then it turned into thick, heavy rain...then the wind started to pick up. The rain was so thick and the wind so strong we couldn't see out our windows.
Then it got scary; I was looking out our back door and saw a few small branches starting to fly past (nothing to be concerned about they were just twigs), then the heavy bench that sat our our porch tipped over and started sliding. At that point I started to move away from the door, when I noticed a branch fall past the window; I grabbed Mushu (holding him to protect him); and then I felt something hit my back; and cups were tipping over (spilling the ice and sending the ice flying across the room)....mom thought the windows had broken in (because the flying ice looked like glass). The screen from the back door was blow out of place; and that's what hit my back. Samantha was up stairs and said that when the wind started to pick up it was making a scary noise coming in through the cracks where the a/c unit was in the window; and then she said that the wind actually blew the unit out of the window and into our room!!!!
A large dead branch had fallen from the tree missing the kitchen window; and, sadly, we lost the top (a good 15') of the tree that was blocking my bedroom window from the intersection.

Of course after the rain passed; I immediately made my way out to check on all the animals...everyone survived...though; the goats and sheep were terrified to come outside; but I showed them it was OK....I always worry about my animals in moments like that...I have these fears that one will get stuck out in the rain; or the barn will collapse onto them.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

A Christian Heart and Mind

2011-08-20T14:06:00.000-04:00

As a christian it's extremely important to me to be a 'good christian'; meaning, following Gods word.
Some Christians try to treat Gods word like a buffet; they pick and choose. Ditching the things they don't like-the things that make them feel bad about the way they live their life.
Now; don't get me wrong; I'm a sinner; but I have confessed and admitted that to God and Jesus and by the blood and life Jesus gave, I'm saved; but I'm still flawed because I'm only human.

That's why it's extremely important to guard your heart and mind from the world.

You can only see and hear about sex before marriage so long before you start to think that it's OK.You can only hear so many cuss words before you start cussing. You can only hear people take Gods name in vain before you start taking it in vain, after all "every one's doing it"...some people try to reason, "stop being old fashioned; the bible was written for a different time, God wants us to enjoy life."
Movies and TV shows now-a-days, offer a wide variety of ratings...there are movies (usually the "big hits) I will not go see because of the content, now sure, the story line might be hilarious, and I might be a fan of the actors...but I still won't go see it because it's wrong...one of my favorite sights to check out before I see a movie is plugged in online, usually, they give UN-biased views and leave it up to the readers to decided if it's a movie they want to see.

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good." ~Titus 2:11-14

Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." ~1 Peter 1:13-16

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. ~Philippians 2:3-11

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ~Philippians 4:8

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Brick Homes

2011-08-19T11:21:00.001-04:00

When I picture my dream home (which since my one post about my dream home layout, my layout has already changed). I picture a brick home; not those new (ugly) brick homes, but those old, worn, lived in looking brick homes; like below....I of course, love this one...but it's hard to not love this home since they have a horse in the yard.

This house it so cute! I love the whole, vining thing! Though, I don't think it's good for the house to have vines growing on it.

This is just another example of the type of brick I like....I love all the flowers!

And, no, this isn't a brick home, but I love this house any ways! I love this entry!!!!!! It has a fairy tale feel to it, doesn't it!?

Now, the one this missing from the dream homes of mine, is a large wrap around porch. I've always wanted a wrap around porch; first off, I think it makes the home look even more homey. And second, I'm an outdoorsy person, and I love sitting outside, and serving meals outside, so a wrap around porch is perfect!

What does you dream home look like?

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Mac and Cheese

2011-08-17T12:18:00.003-04:00

2 Cups Macaroni
1/2 cups butter
1/4 cup flour
1-1/2 cups milk
8oz of sour cream
8 oz processed cheese ( I used American, but you could use Velveeta)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground mustard
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
This is my favorite home-made mac and cheese recipe. When it's first out of the oven it's extremely rich, almost to rich. But at it cools; unlike most macs and cheese, it gets better and better! This is a mac and cheese that would be great made a day before and warmed up!
Preheat oven to 350.
Cook the macaroni till done, meanwhile; melt the butter in a skillet, add the flour and milk, stir until it thickness; reduce heat and add sour cream, processed cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground mustard. Let simmer, stirring constantly to prevent burning, stir until it's melted.
Strain the macaroni, and stir in the cheddar cheese. Now, pour the sauce over it, and stir, pour into a greased baking dish. (TIP: After straining the macaroni I pour it into our baking dish and did all the adding and stirring from there; it'll save you dishes).
Now, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it's bubbly and browned to your liking.

Try This: Try sprinkling the top with bread crumbs. To cheesy? Try adding 1/4 cup more macaroni. To rich? Try reducing the sour cream and processed cheese both to 6 oz instead of 8oz. Like it spicy? Try adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce. Want some green? Try adding 1/2 cup frozen peas.

Gabrielle W.
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God". ~1 Corinthians 10:31

To Find Peace

2011-08-16T12:03:00.004-04:00

Look back and thank God.
Look forward and trust God.

Look around and serve God.

Look within and find God.

(If you click the picture; it will get bigger so you can read the text.)

P.S.

I'm planning on making a lot of things to sell and I've been working on a name. So today; after much though and googling to make sure no one else is already using it- I'm debuting my trademark, I used the free photo editing site, Picnik, so I was limited on the font type (though I do like this font), either way, my 'brand' is now, Twin Oaks Purdy Creations.

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

When nice weather rolls in, it's time to get things done!

2011-08-15T12:34:00.000-04:00

Since getting back from TN, I've been very busy. First; the usual, mowing and gardening...did I mention moving the ducks to a tractor in the garden? No? Yes? Well, either way, that's what happened...so I cleaned up where the ducks use to be living and dad finished putting up the frame for the pen. I then had to piece together a bunch of old chicken wire, a bunch of old plastic fencing, to use to fence in that area. We had to pull up fencing that had been buried in the ground to use. After we found fencing, I fenced the roof, and all the sides but one. I then moved the electric fencing so the goats could get in there and eat down the tall weeds...we let them stay in there for two days, with Samantha helping, we then finished putting up the wire, and re-did the electric fencing.

This is what the run looks like before and after

Now there are only two small holes in the roof we need to fix before we let the ducks in there. Right now we have it opened up so the chickens can go in that side.
Since we have both the stalls fixed in the animal barn (where the chickens, sheep and female goats stay), we could now muck out the front area, that was used for a stall...this area was packed soiled straw and hay; a good one to two feet of ick deep and the area was a ten foot by 8 foot area, oh, what fun! Some how, I ended up cleaning the entire thing by myself...but I did it, now it's all clean.

Handsome with his 'teenage' beard

One of the three barn kittens

Me and Fubar

Me with Snafu

Tayla

Samantha rewarding Tayla

As I said above; the past couple days have been beautiful! Yesterday was around 78, wonderful! So, we've taken advantage of it and have been working and riding the horses a lot! How I've missed riding horses!! I'm working with Galahad-refreshing him in the ways of being ridden; Samantha is going the same with Tayla. Quartermaine is our best horse!! Mom doesn't know how to ride so, Samantha and I have been giving her lessons on him. Mainly working on her confidence on horseback.

Coraline and Handsome being naughty!

Dorothy with one of the barn kittens

The barn kittens are growing up; isn't he cute! Of the three, one is a boy, and he's our favorite. None of them like to be held, but the boy isn't as skittish and he's more tolerant of the fact that, kittens are adorable and every time we see them we want to hold them. The one pictured below is the most wild of the three.

Naomi has been very lovey dovey lately, which of course, I love! It makes you feel so good and loved when an animals WANTS to be with you, and WANTS you to love on it....

Me and Naomi

Oh, we sold the rest of the ducklings the other day! We now have the three original ducks and the four ducklings we hatched in the incubator. I'm really excited to get the duck pen done so the ducks can have more room. And, also, so I can try to handle them more and make them a little less flighty.

Quartermaine and Tayla

Well....I think you're all caught up now......oh, I'll tell you about our garden....it's not doing to well....We have lots of squash and zucchini and we're getting some green beans; but; we're having trouble with everything else. We planted our tomatoes from seed; and boy; they grew great!! We have a ton of plants! And they all have blooms on them, and some have small green tomatoes...but we have yet to harvest any.
We were looking at the corn plot yesterday, and this huge plot has nice sized stalks, but almost all of them are missed there ears of corn...we have no clue what happened to them....

Moms thinking about not really having a garden next year. Which I see her point; we put in all this time planting, and most of our summer is spend mowing, weed eating, and pulling weeds...not to mention the money spend on seeds.

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Pigs

2011-08-14T15:23:00.001-04:00

I really want a pet pig- a miniature pig to be exact! I want it to be a house pig, so I can't get one any time soon....so in the mean time, I can only look at pictures of pigs...

Google Image

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Anger

2011-08-13T10:41:00.001-04:00

You know how most people have those "Home is where family is," or "Trust is God," or "Be happy with what you have," wall signs in there homes?
Well, though all of those are great, but, those are not what I want hanging on my wall. I want my wall sign to read, "Anger has unintended Consequences".

Google Image

Think about it. I'll use an example. Someone in my family had a hurt toe; Denmark walking by, not meaning to, stepped right onto that toe. The person got really made (because it really hurt) and punched our cedar closet, breaking the door right down the middle. This cedar closet was my Granddads- and we got it years ago when he passed away...needless to say, my mom was not happy about what happened....now, thankfully, we were able to fix the door good as new, but you see my point.
Think about how many people have killed someone because they got mad. Anger is very dangerous...
Anger can shatter communication and tear apart relationships, and it ruins both the joy and health of many. Sadly, people tend to justify their anger instead of accepting responsibility for it.

Short-tempered people do foolish things, and schemers are hated. ~Proverbs 14:17

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Final Day-Heading Home (Road Trip Part 7)

2011-08-12T11:47:00.001-04:00

*Wake up*-"the trips over already?!"

We get breakfast, eat, pack, and leave our room by 9:30-10-ish. We Check out of the hotel and move our truck over to a pay-parking lot.

We then walk on over to The Ripley's Aquarium.

The aquarium was really neat; and they had some great ideas for kids....but, though Samantha and I had fun going through it and don't regret paying for it (because we'd been saving for a long time, really wanting to go to it)....we went through it; twice, in half an hour.....
After the aquarium; we made our way down the street to The Hard Rock Cafe.

This being the first time we've visited a Hard Rock, we didn't know what to expect. And, boy, was it great!!!

Though it was pricey; Samantha and I had been eating pb&j's all week; saving our money to go here. We both ordered the Legendary Burger....and this is how it came....YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!

We also both ordered a chocolate milk shake...the whip topping looks funny- but that's because it's homemade. This was, by far, the best shake I've had...the chocolate, the whip topping....it all tasted so real and fresh!!!

After we were done eating it was about 12 o'clock...we made our way back to the truck and headed on home. We decided-since the aquarium wasn't as long as we thought it'd be-to stop at Big Bone Lick on the way home. We drove, and sang songs....and drove.....finally we reached Big Bone Lick- only to discover there visitor center was closed....but at least there walking trails were still open.

So; after four days and three nights, we were home. We actually got home at 7-in time to put our goats away. Mom did great milking for us- dad helped her feed and put the animals away.

Everyone survived, and Samantha and I had the best trip ever!!

We're so proud of ourselves traveling to a place we've never been before- I'm proud of myself for planning the entire trip (I did my research!).

Before this trip we didn't know how to check into a hotel...before this trip we never knew how to drive to TN. Before this trip; we'd never gone on a trip where we couldn't rely on someone else to ask questions and figure stuff out....we did it!!!

Everyone needs to have a trip where risks are taken, where you have to rely on yourself, not your parents or others. Everyone needs a chance to have an adventure!!!!

I can't wait till Samantha and I can go on another adventure!!!

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Shopping Day (Road Trip Part 6)

2011-08-11T16:58:00.001-04:00

Ah, shopping. What girl doesn't enjoy some form of it. Samantha and I were on a tight budget, since we had to spend more to go on the trip; but we still had a load of fun sight seeing and window shopping (plus, Gatlinburg is a tourist town so EVERYTHING was over priced).

I wanted to find a t-shirt that I would wear a lot; there was a lot of the usually t's with bears on them, or TN on them...but I wanted something different...and then I saw this t-shirt (see below), this picture in the back on the t-shirt. The front (which I couldn't find a picture of), has a boot print and says "get off the couch, hike the smokies". This is how I live my life; yeah, something could go wrong; but something could go wrong at home too.

Google Image

I'm a sap for doggy clothing- yes, I'm one of those girls who buys shirts, coats, sweaters and dresses for my dogs. I dress them gender appropriate though (you won't see a dress on Mushu, only on Josephina). Well, I saw this dress and just had to get it (the picture is the picture on the tag-that's not Josephina in the dress.)

Google Image

After our day of shopping we headed back to the hotel and swam. We then got our showers and headed back out to do more window shopping and walking around. This will be our last night in Tennessee. We leave the next day; but before we do we have a few more things to do- stay tuned.

P.S.
I would of had all my Road Trip posts done by now, but our Internet went out and then the computer wasn't letting my upload picture here...so, tomorrow should be my last post about the road trip. ..and boy, I have a lot to tell you about what's be getting done around the farm!!!
Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

First Full Day ( Road Trip Part 5)

2011-08-07T21:54:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful first day!

We start the day with the breakfast offered by the hotel; just the usual; cereal, oatmeal, plain doughnuts, apple, orange juice and coffee....We chose to have the doughnuts, cereal and oatmeal and of course orange juice!

We leave our room at 9:15 a.m, hitting the road heading to The Great Smokey National Park.

First stop was the Sugarland Visitor Center to pick up a map and to look at there small...wildlife museum (taxidermy animals, fake plants, ect).

Then we were off to Newfond Gap; where we walked on the Appalachian Trail, (check that off my bucket list)!!!

We then headed on to Clingmans Dome, the tallest point in the park at 6643 feet; where they had a, what would you call it, a tower where you could walk up and see above all the trees, that was truly an amazing view....but let me tell you, that walk was a killer!!! I have a bad knee, that I've worked with and only bothers me under extreme stress, well, this was stress! And, since I can remember, I've had some form of breathing problem, like asthma, and at that altitude, my lungs were screaming...but it was so worth it. And plus, Samantha was very understanding and told me we can take a break whenever I needed.

After this; we headed down the road; back down the mountain, and stopped at a small stream;

we then made our way to Laurel Falls...We had hiked about 15 minutes, when I saw the coolest thing; a black bear!!! And Samantha pointed out, next to said bear, was a cub!!!!!

After we made it to the falls, we rested our now very sore feet in the very cold water.....

after we were well rested we made our way back to the truck, and on back to the hotel, where we went swimming; got our showers and walked across the street to town where we had Wendy's for dinner, and we also did some quick window shopping to figure out what where everything was.
After; we made our way back to the hotel, and relaxed.

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Heading Down (Road Trip Part 4)

2011-08-06T11:00:00.002-04:00

We left around 11:00 a.m., August 1st; The drive way perfect, everything went according to plan, and it was a beautiful day to be driving.
Needless to say, since Samantha was driving, I got bored and took lots of pictures.....

Our animal friends found us even in TN. The little stream running behind the hotel, was home to several ducks.

We got to the hotel room around 6 p.m., took our showers and just relaxed in the room for the rest of the day.

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

We're Back!! (Road Trip Part 3)

2011-08-05T10:33:00.001-04:00

I had the best time in Gatlinburg, Tennessee!! I love the mountains!! Though, Gatlinburg is defiantly a tourist town, the back drop of the mountains made it beautiful!! And though they over charge for everything, (we stopped at a Walgreen's along the parkway and they were selling the average size box of cereal for five bucks!), you can find great deals, like the Wendy's or Subway along the parkway.

I just wanted to post and explain how I'll be posting details about my trip...I'm gonna post them in segments of four (because we were gone 4 days, 3 nights). I'll post pictures and explain what we did that day; I figure it's a lot easier than posting one massive post about our trip.
So I hope you enjoy; I'll post the first post tonight!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Packing (Road Trip Part 2)

2011-07-31T00:34:00.000-04:00

It's 12:26 am as I type this...It's the Sunday before Samantha and I leave and I'm so excited!!
We've spent Saturday packing and getting things ready around the farm.
We moved Yusuke, Keiko, Samantha's hen and the four remaining ducklings hatched by my hen, into the garden so we can get their run finished. We have the kids finally staying in there stall. We made sure that we have enough feed so mom doesn't have to run to the store....

We won't have much time to do stuff tomorrow because we're going to the drive-in with our family. We'll get home late, and then it's off to bed and up early for the trip!! I'll post all the details when I get back!
Wish us luck, here's hoping we don't get lost!!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Super Quick and Easy Italian Parker House Rolls

2011-07-30T12:26:00.001-04:00

I don't measure any of my ingredients because you can't really go wrong making these.
"Real" Italian Salad Dressing (you don't want to use light because it can make the rolls soggy)
2 (12 ounce) cans refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
Parmesan cheese

Step one-Preheat oven to 400 and grease cupcake/muffin pan.
Step two-Pour some of the dressing into a bowl. You may need to add more dressing to the bowl as you go; after you make these a couple times; you'll know just how much dressing you need.
Step three-Take two biscuits and dip them into the dressing, fold each in half and place both, seam side down, into muffin pan. Continue until you have ten "rolls".
Step four-Sprinkle with desired amount of Parmesan cheese.
Step five- bake for 10-20 minutes; until the top in brown, and when you separate a roll it's not doughy.

Gabrielle W.
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ~1 Corinthians 10:31

I'm Excited (Road Trip Part 1)

2011-07-27T11:56:00.002-04:00

I'm extremely excited.
Why? Well; Monday, the 1st of August; Samantha and I are going on a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee!

The planning for this started back in December when my best friend got engaged. And with Samantha going to college this fall (the end of August actually); we all (my two best friends (practically my sisters) and Samantha) decided to go on a road trip somewhere...to go on the trip BEFORE all these big milestones in our lives...just the four of us on a new adventure!
So, I've been doing research, planning, comparing prices and printing maps for the last SEVEN months...wow, that's a lot of time to plan for a four night trip!!!!

Well, my two best friends bailed yesterday, I'm not sure why, but I'm sure there's a good reason because they know how hard I've been working on this trip, and I know they'd never bail without a good reason...though I have no problem saying, I am really, REALLY ticked off at them...I mean, 6 days before, really?!?

So; Samantha and I scrambled to figure out what to do; after all we were splitting the trip four ways...but after spending all day yesterday thinking, calculating, and checking our very low bank accounts...we figured out a way to still go on the trip!

The entire point of this trip was suppose to be a girl friend getaway trip....but, I guess things happen (though I wish I knew sooner) and Samantha and I are determined to have a fun trip.

We're now staying three nights in Gatlinburg, TN. Wanna know how the agenda looks?
August 1st; We leave home for TN at 10am; when we get to TN, we're just gonna check into the hotel, and hang out around there...explore the hotel, maybe go swimming...
August 2nd; A Day for hiking and exploring The Great Smoky National Park!!!
August 3rd; Shopping!!! Gatlinburg has so many neat shops to check out!!!
August 4th; We'll check out of the hotel, and then we're going to head on over to the Ripley's Aquarium, after that we're gonna have lunch at The Hard Rock Cafe...and then we're heading on home.

Now you may be wondering, who's taking care of you animals? My mom and dad offered to; they wanted us to have a chance to have an adventure.
But, what if your truck brakes down or you hit a deer?
Well, first of all, I don't live my life on 'what ifs', I live my life trusting in God....but I also, come prepared. I'm going to borrow I.C.E. money from my brother. And Gatlinburg is only 5 hours away, so, if something was to happen and we needed a parent there, my dad already said he'd come down...and plus, in Gatlinburg, we're only two hours from my grandma, so if the truck did break down, and our stay at the hotel was up, she'd come get us....I'm planning this trip like, IF something was to happen, just roll with it, it's not a big deal...I'll handle it just like my parents would if they were there...after all I am 21...and there are kids living in apartments, all by themselves at that age...

So, yeah, though the entire point of the trip is a bust, Samantha and I are not going to stay sad and let it ruin our trip...so, count down till we leave is now in motion...and I still need to run to the store and get things that my friends were suppose to bring, in addition to the things I said I'd bring...I need to deposit some money, and I need to get animals feed (not to bring on the trip, but for our animals here of course).

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Heat Index 110

2011-07-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

A cool Tree Frog I almost squashed with our gate latch...it's now living somewhere in one of our trees.

The tree frog in a bucket.

We rented a bob cat to clean out our horse barn; and to return it, the scoop has to be clean...well...Spencer sprayed off the scoop...yeah...that's horse poop and pee filled mud on his face...

The heat index has stayed at 110 the past few days....YUCK! Thankfully, though the rest of the house doesn't have a/c our bedrooms have those little window units. And, thankfully, we have a pool...that's where I've been the past few days. I love swimming, the peaceful feeling laying there, or swimming through the water. The complete silence when I'm under water is so relaxing to me.

Swimming through the darkness;

Swimming through the doubt;

Through my fears;

Through my past ;

Swimming through my anger; feeling like I’ll drown;

Swimming through my stormy life that no one cares about;

In the silence of the water I hear no true sound;

I sit quietly at the bottom listening to nothing;

Here I can connect and speak with no one to bother me;

God’s there with my in the water; both in the pool and out;

Guiding me; helping me; so I can figure out;

No matter how hard I swim with out Him I will drown.

Swimming through the water I feel His mighty presence.

Swimming through my hopes;

Swimming through my dreams;

I know nothing is impossible as long as He’s with me.

Where do you connect with God?

Gabrielle W.

"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Giveaways and Sample Links

2011-07-21T13:19:00.000-04:00

I'm addicted to samples and giveaways...so I wanted to share some of my favorite links....
Giveaways:
http://www.womansday.com/Lifestyle/Giveaways.html

http://www.elledecor.com/home-sweepstakes

http://winit.womansworldmag.com/all/1

http://www.motherearthnews.com/ogden_contests.aspx

Samples:
http://www.allyou.com/coupons-deals/daily-free-samples-00411000069695/

http://www.thunderfap.com/

Hope you enjoy!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-07-19T12:12:00.002-04:00

I love chewy chocolate chip cookies; and I've gone through countless recipes trying to find 'the one'. Well, I found it. This is my all time favorite recipe! It takes a little longer to make (because you have to refrigerate the batter before cooking), but it's worth it! And plus, this recipe makes ginormous cookies!!!!

-2 cups All-purpose flour
-1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
-1/2 teaspoon Salt
-3/4 cup unsalted (if you use salted butter ditch the salt in the recipe) butter; melted (butter makes it rich and
yummy, margarine makes it less rich, but then you eat more)
-1 cup brown sugar; packed
-1/2 cup Sugar
-1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
-1 Egg
-1 Egg yolk
-2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease cookie sheets or line with either parchment paper.
Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.

In a medium bowl, cream together the melted butter, brown and white sugars until well blended.
Beat in the vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until light and creamy. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture until just blended. Stir in the chocolate chips. Chill the dough, then drop 1/4 cup at a time onto the prepared cookie sheets. Cookies should be about 3 inches apart.

Bake for 15 to 17 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are lightly browned. Check the cookies after 7 or 8 minutes and rotate the baking sheet for even browning. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Yields: 15 Cookies

Notes: Do NOT make on a humid day, they will not turn out right. And before refrigerating the batter will be runny.

Gabrielle W.
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ~1 Corinthians 10:31

Pictures of Fair

2011-07-19T11:54:00.000-04:00

Market Roaster

Winning Market Poultry Showmanship

Abilene and Esmeralda waiting for there time to show

Samantha with Gemma

Samantha with Esmeralda during showmanship

Samantha with our friend Allison showing Esmeralda and Abilene

Best of Show, show

Our friend, Shelby, showing Gemma

Gemma is to the far right, 6th out of 9

Shelby showing Annabell for Samantha

Annabell got 2nd out of 6

Reserve Champion

Allison showing our red hen

Showmanship for Facy Poultry

5th place in Fancy Poultry Showmanship

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

July 9th-16th Clinton County Fair 2011

2011-07-17T11:49:00.000-04:00

Wow- this was a very busy week for us!
Samantha had a great last year of fair! In addition to the shows, Samantha had to go twice a day to milk Annabell and to feed the animals. She was also on the Jr. Fair Board this year and so helped out around fair.
Most shows lasted a good 4-5 hours; and Samantha was usually one of the last to show (or when showmanship was last) one of the first, so either way we had to stay till the end.
July 9th-Drop animals off around 8am.
July 10th-3:00 pm Market Chicken Show. Though it was poorly run (by placing showmanship last) and we were there all day (didn't leave till 11:30pm) , Samantha didn't place with her market bird, but she went on and got 1st place out of 16 for Market Chicken Senior Showmanship!
July 11th-2:30pm Sheep Show. In Sheep Senior Showmanship she place 3rd out of 5. And our baby doll sheep went on and got 1st and 2nd in their class, and our 1st place winner got Grand Champion of her class.
July 12th-1:30pm Goat Show-Samantha was sick (so no showmanship) but thankfully our friend Shelby showed Annabell and Gemma. Annabell got 2nd out of 4 and Gemma got 6th out of 9. Annabell went on to win Reserve Champion Dairy Doe!--in addition to fair, we got in 40 round bales this day, Samantha went to fair early to get her goats ready (when we got there we sent her home cause she was sick) mom and I moved square bales to a different barn, and moved a large stack on dry wall to a different barn to make room for the round bales.
July 13th-Picked up market chickens before 8am. Dropped off Fancy chickens at 5:50pm.
July 14th-A day off! We went towards the evening and watched the truck and tractor pull!
July15th-9:00 am Fancy Poultry Show. Placed 1st in poster contest. Senior Showmanship she got 5th out of 10(ish). Annie (our ancona) got 2nd out of 4. Little Red Hen (our Rhode island red hen) got 4th out of 12. And Samanthas white americana rooster (named Walt Disney) got 4 out of 4. Was there late and stayed to watch tractor pulls.
July16th-Last Day of Fair. Went at 8am to pick up sheep and goats. Went back to fair at 2:30-3ish for Samantha to auction her market chicken; got $100 for it (sounds like a lot for a bird, but someone got 1,500 for theirs). Then brought the fancy chickens home.

Before fair kids have to do something call 'skillathon' which tests there knowledge on whatever animal they're planning on showing (you have to do skillathon if you want to show, you don't have to place to show though). Samantha got 3rd in Goats, 4th in Sheep, and 3rd in Fancy Chicken Skillathon.

GREAT JOB Samantha! You're hard work paid off!!! I'm so happy you had such a great last year in fair!!!
Now it's on to college for you!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Spending money on needs not wants

2011-07-05T18:26:00.000-04:00

With farming, and owning animals, you have to be very careful how you spend your money. It takes a lot of work to make sure one manages their money properly.

Like with fair coming up, my sister is busy working on the fair projects and spending money on the fair projects and has slowly started to neglect her non-fair animals and responsibilities. Spending money on her fair chickens but not her egg chickens, doing her fair-related chores, and not doing other chores, such as help get the duck run up, feed the horses, mow, etc.

Since my job has never gotten back to me about my hours (and yes, I've called and emailed numerous times), I'm really, REALLY, short on cash. But, I manage the money I do have really well.
Yeah, I'd love to have those cute summer shirts (of which I have none) I saw at Goodwill, but, I can't spend even three bucks on something I want. I have to save that money and spend it on hay, feed, straw, and other animal related items-things I need.

My mom has told me before that she's afraid, and feels bad that, because of my animals, I'm missing out on a lot of experiences and fun.
But you know what...my animals are my best friends and are always there for me. They make me smile, laugh, and they make me ever so happy! With out my animals I don't know who'd I be. A while back, if I didn't have my animals, I wouldn't of gotten out of bed.
My animals are my world, and for me, missing out on 'experiences and fun', it's worth it.
So yeah, I can't go shopping with my friends (well, I can't buy anything), I can't buy that shirt, or decorative item, or those shoes marked to fifty percent off....but it's worth it.

I won't lie though, there are times I wish I had money for this or that...how I wish I could go to the movies and not feel guilty...but, when I say no as I walk away I feel bad for like two seconds, and then smile remembering I have a horse to ride, fresh eggs to collect, a goat to hug, a dog to baby and a sheep to adore....but most of all, I remember, I have goats, horses, dogs, cats, sheep, a few ducks and some chickens that are all love me for me; they don't care that I don't have that cute summer top, they don't care that I haven't seen the latest hit movie.
They love me unconditionally. And after a long, hard day or working in the hot summer sun, and nothing going right, a 'happy to see you' maa, baa, quack, neigh, cluck, bark or meow, makes all the bad melt away; and makes me appreciate even more the blessings God has given me.

I knew signing on to the farming wagon, I'd make sacrifices, and I wouldn't do it any other way!
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Happy 4th of July Everyone!!

2011-07-04T12:56:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone is having a fun and safe holiday!

Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

Today I don't feel like doing anything...

2011-07-02T20:42:00.001-04:00

Have you ever heard the song by Bruno Mars, called "The Lazy Song"? (Find it on youtube, the music video is very amusing).
Normally, I can't stand not doing anything- it's a waste of a day. But today; today, I woke up and truly, felt like doing...nothing. It wasn't hot, hot (but it wasn't pretty). It wasn't sunny....still; I didn't feel like doing anything...

Google Image

I did my morning chores (which I usually enjoy doing, but not this time-they just seemed like they took forever.)
I did feel like (and I enjoyed) doing my daily workout (walked at least a mile, Pilate's, stretching, squats, and weight training.)
After that....nothing...I went upstairs (where my room has a window a/c) and just sat on my bed all day....playing with my cats, doing my nails....checking facebook....all day, nothing...and you know what? It was nice...for once I was lazy and didn't feel guilty at all!

Google Image

One thing with a farm though, is, you can't have true lazy days...goats need milked, chickens need fed, buckets need filled with water....As a farmer, you have to be very careful to some what (though today was not planned) , plan when to have a lazy day.
In example? Well, you can't have a lazy day during, kidding time, planting time or harvesting time-you just can't put those things off.

Google Image

Everyone is entitled to a lazy day- a day to do whatever you want; read, watch TV, sleep, just laying in bed and looking at the ceiling, or listening to God (though to me; this is doing something very important!). The key to balancing these days with productive days...like, if it was raining for the past two days, you're limited in what you can do, don't wait until it's pretty out to decide to have a lazy day.
How do you spend you lazy days?
Gabrielle W.
"The Lord directs the steps of a christian. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalms 37:23-24

~*~*~*~*~Twin Oaks Stable~*~*~*~*~

Something to think about...

Technical Difficulties

Marinated Chicken Tenders

Crisy Roasted Potatoes

Olive Garden Bread Sticks

Super Quick Dinner Rolls

Soft Pretzels

Christmas Trees

30 day challenge

Keeping a Journal

Investments

Happy 2012!

Finally!

Day 25 (Part 3): Pumpkin Pie

Day 25 (Part 2): Chocolate Yule Log

Day 25 (Part 1): Pecan Pie

Day 24: Molasses Cookies

Day 23: Mini Blueberry Pies

Day 22: Chocolate Molten Lava Cakes

Day 21: The Mall

Day 20: Cinnamon Rolls

Day 19: Candy Cane Shape Cookies

Day 18: Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

Day 17: "Almond Joys"

Day 16: Pepper Mint Meltaways

Day 15: Homemade PopTarts

Day 14: Pumpkin Torte

Day 13: Wedding Cookies

Day 12: Easy Stuffed French Toast

Day 11: Loaded Oatmeal Cookies

Day 10: Cinnamon Soft Pretzels

Day 9: Sugar Cookies

Day 8: Pumpkin Roll

Day 7: Peanut Butter Cups

Day 6: Gingerbread "Men"

Day 5: Glazed Doughnuts

Day 4: Chocolate Orange 'Shells'

Day 3: Lebanon Horse Carriage Parade

Day 2: Thumbprint Cookies

Day 1: Pumpkin Cupcakes w/Cream Cheese Frosting

December 1st is just 9 minutes away!

Pumpkins as a Natural Dewormer

I have something that I need to share!

Portraits

One Holiday at a Time

Work Hard (Or Hardly Workin')?

Life's Natural Highs

Just for Fun

To see someone worthwhile

Wind

Fall

October

The Ducks are Happy.

Don't Worry

Awol

First Day of Autumn

Learn from Yesterday

Pictures from the barn yard

2 a.m. Friend

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Truffles

Let's take a ride

I still miss her....

This is hard for me to Write...

The Time in Between

Friends

A Godly Women

Lynwy

Happy Sunday

Canning Time!!!!!

Reminders in Quotes

Pop-up Thunderstorms

A Christian Heart and Mind

Brick Homes

Mac and Cheese

To Find Peace

When nice weather rolls in, it's time to get things done!

Pigs

Anger

Final Day-Heading Home (Road Trip Part 7)

~~~~~Twin Oaks Stable~~~~~