The Mother-Daughter Blog

Crystal Cove & Laguna Beach

2010-11-13T14:46:00.000-08:00

We all needed a little break, so we took a mini-vacation and spent the day at Crystal Cove State Park and in Laguna Beach...

Jeff took this picture of the shore.

While Jeff and Tiffani played Smashball, I relaxed in one of the chairs. I felt as though something was watching me, so I turned around and here is the culprit. This little guy chatted with me for quite a while.

He definitely ruled the roost in this area! Later, Jeff and I saw him attack a fellow gull and steal the meal that had just washed upon the shore. He swallowed the seafood (shell & all!) and ran off down the beach with it.

Tiffani sleeping...so relaxing...warm sand and the waves sliding upon the shore...

Our view from the The Cliff Restaurant...all seating is outdoors. The weather was perfect...78F! And so clear that we could see Santa Catalina Island.

Sitting in Brown's Park, Laguna Beach, CA.

View of PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) from The Cliff Restaurant.

First Tea in our New Home

2010-11-11T15:02:00.001-08:00

Our CBS group didn't meet today since schools were closed for the holiday,

but several of us wanted to gather anyway, so we had Tea here.

Hopefully, this is just the first of many in our home and others'.

Meet Noelle, Sally Jo & Carrie. Carrie brought her sweet daughter, Marissa,

who played games with Tiffani.

It's ALWAYS a blessing to share time with sisters and I was so blessed today!
Just filled to overflowing.

Menu:
Frittata *
Blueberries
TJ's Orange Cranberry Scones
TJ's Chocolate Croissants
Tiffani's homemade Pita Chips and Dip
Apple Cinnamon Tea
Orange Juice
TJ's Organic Breakfast Blend Coffee

* I substituted pancetta for the bacon and chives for the green onion.

Annual Apologetics Conference

2010-11-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

Tiffani and many of her desert friends have been reading books written by Joel Rosenberg...his fiction and non-fiction writings.

Today she and 2 of her friends (Sierra & Krysten) heard him speak along with Ergun Caner, Norman Geisler, William Dembski, Lee Strobel, and Ron Rhodes at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. The church was hosting the Veritas Evangelical Seminary's Annual Apologetics Conference.

After Mr. Rosenberg spoke, he was available to sign their Epicenter books and talk to them about visiting Israel. The girls were able to share with him that their Theology Book Club read and discussed Epicenter a few months back.

Joel Rosenberg signing Tiffani's book.

Graduation II

2010-11-04T11:51:00.000-07:00

I found more pictures from Tiffani's June 2010 graduation on Jeff's iphone last night! Enjoy!

Other Graduation pictures can be seen HERE.

Pre-Grad HOPE pictures. And here she is Jumping for Joy!

Graduates presented: Elizabeth, Tiffani, Elissa & Josiah

Cap toss!

Karah

Jerry & little Josh

Hannah

Patti & Dale

Sierra

Grammy & Helen

Senior Grad Mamas: Anita, Traci, Susie & Kathy

Elissa

Christine & Ashley

Alyssa ~ Special Speaker, 2005 Homeschool Graduate, 2009 Vanguard University graduate and Tiffani's former babysitter! :-)

Letterboxing

2010-11-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

We went Letterboxing today!

Thank you, Deborah, for filling us in on some that were newly planted in our area. The directions said to begin in a park close to our home, but as we re-read the directions, we realized that the letterboxes were along the SAME trail we took yesterday in Peter's Canyon! So off we went to find the series of 10...planted on 10.10.10.

We found 3. Some were just not there (no doubt washed away by recent rains); others we avoided looking for due to the necessity of going off-trail. Too much grass in some areas and we've been warned about rattlesnakes and poisonous spiders.

We saw a brilliant orange & black spider hanging in a HUGE web near the possible location of one letterbox and decided to leave it be. AND during the second passing of an older gentleman who was going the opposite way on our loop, he stopped us and asked if we'd "seen the rattlesnake."

Surprised, we asked where and he said we'd walked by it seconds before he passed us and heard it hiss at him. We knew the location to which he was referring and Yikes! We'd walked so close to it and never saw or heard a thing. He said it was small (just a couple feet long) and didn't rattle...just hissed at him. He said he's walked this canyon for years, always hoping he'd see a rattlesnake and this was the first time...he was very excited.

So! We'll know the next time we're on the trail to be even more alert when walking along the trail's edges.

This picture reminds me of a time that my parents and I visited a Ghost Town while on vacation in our motorhome. There was a wooden box sent upon a platform and the worn, handwritten sign on it read Baby Rattlers. Daddy took a look in there and laughed and told me to go ahead and take a look. I was terrified. I didn't want anything to do with rattlesnakes, baby or otherwise. Finally, I trusted him to pick me up and look inside. The box was full of baby rattles, not baby snakes!

Hiking Peter's Canyon

2010-10-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

How blessed I feel to be plopped into a home surrounded by wildlife and hiking trails! We hiked part of Peter's Canyon this afternoon. And here are a few of our favorite scenes. I realized after we got home that Tiffani is not in one of them...next time! There will be MANY more times.

It was a little disconcerting to read the Mountain Lion and Rattlesnake warnings at the trailhead, but plenty of people and dogs were moving about on the trails throughout the canyon. We saw nothing, but beautiful blue sky and critters of a feathery & four-legged reptile variety.

Happy trails to you!

Corn Maze & Hot Fudge Cake

2010-10-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

Tiff's Teen Scene group went to a Corn Maze on Friday night. I didn't take pictures ~ surprise! And Tiffani didn't either as she left her purse in the car. I'll post more as we receive them from friends.

After leaving the maze, we drove to Bob's Big Boy ~ haven't been one in over 20 years at least! Had to have my favorite ~ Hot Fudge Cake...brings back childhood memories and evidentally not just for me! LOL!

Here's a picture at Bob's of her former Girls Bible Study group.
(Karah, Hannah, Tiffani and Sierra)

Brunch at Pelican Hill

2010-10-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

OK...I think today concludes my 10-day birthday celebration! LOL!

After church today, we had brunch at the Pelican Hill Grill. It was a gorgeous day and you can see the ocean in the distance of this picture.

Our sweet girl enjoying a laugh and French toast.

Gratitude is
the memory of the heart.

~Jean Baptiste Massieu

What a difference a year makes. Last year around this same time I was in the midst of an incredible health crisis. Today I am thankful to be here and alive and loving & being loved by my family and friends. I am truly blessed.

Sending love and hugs to all of you who share my life in the big ways and the small ways...

Courtesies of a small and trivial character
are the ones which strike deepest
in the grateful and appreciating heart.

~Henry Clay

Ferris Wheel

2010-10-09T15:35:00.000-07:00

And my birthday celebration continues...

Today was Date Day, so Jeff and I were off to the Irvine Spectrum Center for dinner and a movie. We had an hour before the movie started and realized the Ferris Wheel had reopened. So up we went...did I mention that I'm afraid of heights??!

My Special Gift...DOVES!

2010-10-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

We were blessed by a pair of Doves in the backyard today while we were pouring our tea! They are the first pair we've seen since moving here and they appeared TODAY.

If you've heard my Dove Night testimony, then you know this is a very special gift. How God-incidental that they'd show up on my birthday. :-) Tiffani and I just looked at each other smiled...God is good!

And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove!
for then would I fly away, and be at rest.
~Psalm 55:6

Happy Birthday, Traci!

2010-10-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

How fun! While I was chatting on a birthday phone call, Tiffani came into the Craft Room and motioned for me to follow her. I hung up and we walked over to the Den. I walked in and found this beautiful Tea Table. She'd baked the Chocolate Croissants from Trader Joe's and the teapot was ready for the new Moroccan Mint (mint, jasmine & green teas) that Lyndi gave me last week. She'd even written "Happy Birthday" in the powdered sugar.

What a perfect way to begin a birthday morning! Thank you, Sweetie! I love you!

Once again, Wiggles is not to be left out. LOL! He enjoyed playing behind the tablecloth...thinking we couldn't see him.

What greater gift than the love of a cat?
~ Charles Dickens

Special Delivery

2010-10-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Tiffani's new bed arrived today. She chose one that had 2 bookshelves and 2 small drawers in the headboard, as well as 8 drawers around the bottom of the bed. It's a beautiful piece of furniture!

No Eiffel Tower on the wall here, but she has her other Paris pretties displayed.

Birthday at Babe's

2010-10-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

I told my hubby that I feel so blessed to have so many friends/sisters with such beautiful hearts. I felt so loved today as I shared time with Yvonne, Leslie, Phyllis, Dani, Bethany and Lyndi. When Lyndi asked where I'd like to go for lunch, the answer had to be Babe's. It's one of a kind and I haven't found anything like it out here yet.

Everyone of these beautiful women brought their daughters (Hannah, Lexi, Chloe, Hannah, Tiffani & Sierra...we're missing Karah in this picture!) to share time together at their own table.

A big THANK YOU for your kindness and thoughtful gifts. I am truly blessed!

Friendship is a treasured gift,

and every time I talk with you I feel as if I'm getting richer and richer.
~ Anonymous

Western Mystery Party

2010-10-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

We had a beautifully FULL Day today! We started the morning at Melissa's home and enjoyed our time chatting and playing with Elizabeth & Joshua, then had lunch at Babe's (pictures above).

In the evening, while I enjoyed some precious time with our Dinner/Movie group: Bethany C., Yvonne, and Christine (we missed you, Marny!), Tiff's Teen Scene group had their 3rd Mystery Dinner Party tonight.

Previous themes: Pirate and 1920's Puttin' on the Ritz. This one was a late-1800's Western Theme. Tiffani played Annie Maluver (Animal Lover) ~ the town Veterinarian.

Several of the girls got ready at Sierra's home and have Karah to thank for their hair styles. In fact, Karah played a Beautician in the mystery.

Sierra was a traveling Shakespearean Actress and Lexi was the town Librarian.

The Guys

The Gals

Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World

2010-09-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

Tiffani and I drove out to the desert this afternoon after CBS, so she could attend her Theology Book Club and I could meet with my MaryMartha group. We are always so thankful and filled up after meeting with the special people in these groups. That's why we can't let go of them (for at least this school year!).

If you haven't read Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, we'd all hightly recommend it. Joanna Weaver has this amazing ability to teach by using personal story and images to create a new awareness in her reader. I'll be honest I bought this book, because I was compelled by the title and thought it was going to be one of those easy reads that I call a "bathtub book." You know...a good book, but easily read without pen in hand...good reminders and confirmation, but nothing really deep.

Was I in for a surprise when I attempted to read the first chapter in the bathtub without a pen! I had to put it down. And it was several months before I picked it back up...when Bethany suggested that we moms, who meet while our children discuss their books on Thursday night, should also read and discuss a book that would help us grow.

I suggested Ms. Weaver's book and we spent the summer reading, meeting and discussing it. And our time together has been so lovely! Filled with insight and hardship and joy and prayer. This little group of women has turned out to be one of the most precious groups in which I've ever participated. What an incredible blessing!

Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

2010-09-26T15:55:00.000-07:00

A new friend (thank you, Randy!) showed us a "secret" place close by that sells bags of organic juicing oranges for $2/bag.

It's so cute! You turn into a little driveway, walk into the small, covered fruit stand right next to the orchard, choose your bags of oranges and ruby red grapefruit and leave your payment in the box.

These oranges are not pretty, but they are DELICIOUS!

In an organic system you don't waste anything. We need to educate the consumer to accept a tiny blemish on an orange.
~ Robert Patterson

Mystery Flower

2010-09-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

We were in for a new floral treat today in the backyard...Enjoy!

And thanks to our Anonymous Commenter, we know the name of this flower...

Wild Iris Dietes grandiflora

Stony Paths

2010-09-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

I found a card to send off to a friend today, with a quote from Corrie ten Boom. If you have not read Corrie ten Boom's The Hiding Place, this is another "must" read. I've read it twice and will certainly read it again. It is a heart-changing and life-changing book.

If God sends us stony paths, He provides strong shoes.
~ Corrie ten Boom

We know that life isn't easy, but we know that if we remain "connected to the Vine," that we need never give into worry.

California Quail

2010-09-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

While sitting upstairs in the Den this afternoon, with the windows open, we were startled by the sound of a flock of California Quail. We immediately turned our attention to the canyon hill in the backyard and they were everywhere! Under the shrubs, on the lawn, walking the fence like a tightrope. It was so fun to watch them, busying themselves here and there.

Detours

2010-09-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

PHOTO CREDIT: HIKE NOW
I was replying to an email this morning from a sweet sister, who was sharing that she calls upon the Lord each morning to see what she should do and to give her the strength to do so. And these verses were laid upon my heart...emphasis mine.

2 Corinthians 12:
9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

May we go through each of our days, asking Him to author them. Being flexible and not worrying about the little detours in our plan. God's plans are better than our own.

Our Lord bless you and keep you...today and all days...Joy!

Saving Beautiful Puzzles

2010-09-14T05:19:00.000-07:00

Years ago, we were visiting Lindy C. and noticed what her family did with puzzles after putting them together. Instead of breaking them up and putting them back in the box, her family puzzle-glued them to poster board.

So we started to do the same thing...with puzzles that were just too beautiful to take apart.

Here are two of our favorites...

Garden Party

by artist Sandra Kuck

Cat Afghan
by artist Linda Picken

It's so easy and we have our own technique now:
1. Place the puzzle on Foam Board. [We tried Poster Board a couple times, but it always warped.]

2. Use Modge Podge from your local craft store. Pour it on top of the puzzle and spread it all over with a gloved hand...we keep disposable gloves on-hand (no pun intended!) for messy crafts and kitchen recipes. It will look scary at first...all white and gooey, but it does dry clear. Make sure that all of the "cracks" in the puzzle are filled with the glue. The glue will seep through to the Foam Board below and adhere the puzzle to the board.

3. Let sit for 24 hours.

4. Voila! A beautiful, inexpensive, and special wall hanging...that you've created as a family.

***Note: If you like a certain artist and can't afford an original or copy, just find the piece of art in puzzle form. You can even frame the finished puzzle artwork. We did this for Grammy with one of her favorite Thomas Kinkade winter scenes.

Traci's Office & Tiffani's Studio

2010-09-13T16:19:00.001-07:00

This room is just a beautiful space in which we can be creative...we couldn't have asked for anything better. Fragrant air flows from the open Den windows in the back of the house. We have gorgeous natural light all day long. And plenty of empty floor space allows us to maneuver easily around.

We love our old Lazy-Boy rocker. We bought it when I was pregnant with Tiffani and we've spent many cozy hours rocking in this chair...feeding, reading, bonding, comforting...it's a "perfect fit" for OUR room.

So thankful for all the built-in storage. We haven't even filled it up...yet!

Here's my office space...plenty of room for my desk, files and bookcases. I'm missing a shelf...Tiff needs it in her room for another couple weeks until she gets her new bedroom set.

A close-up look at Tiff's Studio space. Our big glass table is dwarfed in this room...it took up so much space at the last house. So glad it works well here...it's perfect for big projects...like the 1000-piece puzzles we enjoy so much!

The principle goal of education
is to create men who are capable of doing new things,
not simply of repeating what other generations have done -
men who are creative, inventive and discoverers.
~Jean Piaget

Kitchen

2010-09-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

I'm enjoying this kitchen already! Sink looking out to the backyard. Work space & storage close to sink and stove. A mighty dishwasher and double ovens. About half the size of my last kitchen, but a "perfectly designed" space...for me!

Lots of fabulous meals coming right up! I'm inspired. :-)

View to backyard...

Living Room

2010-09-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

From the kitchen...

Toward the backyard...

I love the lavendar wall!
Works perfectly with our neutrals, greens and plums.

From a hall...

Wood-burning fireplace...

There is no place more delightful than one's own fireplace.
~ Cicero

Music Room & Dining Room

2010-09-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

From Jeff's office...

From the top of the staircase...

From the first landing...

Our Home for Awhile...

2010-09-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

Entry...

Seating in the Music Room...

THE Staircase...Tiffani's been talking about living in a "house with stairs" since she was a little girl! Here we are. She sees them as fun...I see them as exercise equipment. Hee hee!!

...as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
~ Joshua 24:15

Laguna Beach

2010-09-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

Time for a break!
We headed out to Laguna Beach today.
It was a gorgeous day!

We love interesting Trees...

LOL! Had a giggle when I saw this cacti! Dani gave me a small cactus as a "remembrance" of the desert and here's cacti at the beach. :-)

Roses and Miss Fannie's Hat

2010-09-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

So excited to have 5 rose bushes in the backyard...a far cry from my 40+ bushes, but I've already been fixing them up. Between itty bitty critters munching on their leaves and some long, tangled branches, they were in need of some serious care. They'll be back in shape in no time.

Here are a few blooms...and after the rest blossom, I'll be able to prune them back properly.

I'm so blessed to have been taught to prune from a master...Nana Jo was the sweetest lady you'd ever want to meet and she loved her roses...she loved growing them and giving them. And we rarely saw her without one of her beautiful hats.

Nana Jo always reminded Tiffani & me of Miss Fannie in the children's book, Miss Fannie's Hat ~ author Jan Karon. If you haven't read it, read it! It will bring joy to your heart...just like Nana Jo did to ours until she went home to our heavenly Father about 10 years ago.

Pelican Hill Resort

2010-09-11T16:13:00.001-07:00

Jeff took me to Pelican Hill Resort for our Date Night yesterday. Gorgeous views! And a wedding at the gazebo. Here are a few pictures...

Master Suite

2010-09-10T10:50:00.001-07:00

I'm getting emails about posting pictures of the house...here's the Master Suite:

A view out the Master Bedroom window...

We've set the Master Retreat up as a Den. It's already a favorite evening spot for chatting and family movies...

View out the Den's window...

Tiffani & her Studio

2010-09-10T08:25:00.001-07:00

Tiffani and I are sharing the upstairs "bonus room" with gorgeous light that pours in throughout the day. Here she is...typing away in her "studio." She's all set up with her rolltop storage, sewing machine, and a large glass table that divides our spaces. She loves her "little corner of the world," as she calls it!

Wiggles

2010-09-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

I think Wiggles was overwhelmed the first few days...3 spectacular places to watch outdoors...up and downstairs in the back of the house and from upstairs windows in the front of the house...so many new sights and sounds. He's adjusting very well.

Here he sits on his Kitty Condo, which looks out the upstairs window of my Office/Craft Room. It also overlooks my desk, so I could capture his sweet face looking at me as I write this morning...

Settling In...

2010-09-08T21:57:00.000-07:00

Can't believe we've been here over a week already! I didn't quite get unpacked as quickly as my inspiration, Bethany. LOL! But we are completely unpacked as of today and should have everything where we want it by the end of the weekend. Woo woo!!

We are all truly amazed at how quickly this "house" became our "home." Each room is perfect for our lifestyle and there is no wasted space. A true blessing!

Wiggles checking out a cupboard...

Tiffani in the backyard...

Tea table ready for action!

Back at the BBQ! We've BBQ'd every night now, but two.

Here's the other side of our backyard...our extended backyard is Peter's Canyon. So much wildlife back there. No roadrunners! BUT we have rabbits, squirrels, another larger critter (opposum?? need my binoculars), and different types of birds. Saw our first hummingbird the other day too!

The Birdhouse

2010-09-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

The owner asked us if we would mind leaving this birdhouse up in the backyard. He said that every year a family nests in it and he doesn't even want to repair it just in case it scares them away. Were we the perfect family to ask or what?! LOL! We can't wait until the birds come back to nest!

BBQ Dinner on the Patio

2010-09-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

For 18 years in the desert heat, we've been unable to enjoy a summer dinner outside on our patio! It was such a pleasure to be BBQing and dining outside this evening.

Packing and Moving...

2010-09-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

Well...our 10 weeks (70 days) were complete on September 1...and we arrived safe and sound to our new home. Big THANK YOU's to Dani, Leslie, and Phyllis who got me where I needed to go as I was car-less in the days leading up to the move. Dani and Leslie for driving me around town for errands...and Phyllis for driving Tiff, Wiggles and me to our new home last night. It was such a blessing not having to worry about a rental car, which as it turned out would not have worked anyway.

Many of you received our first email after our arrival. Wiggles was my biggest concern, but he had an exceptional drive out here. He gave a brief "MEW" every 10 minutes or so to make sure all was fine. I'm sure he was comfortable since he was in his buggy with his favorite blanket and listening to the soothing harp music Tiffani had downloaded on her iPhone.

Empty...

Last dip in the pool...

Full...

Phyllis, Traci, Tiffani & Sierra in the new kitchen...

It's late, but they're playing Jinx!

Lucy Lovers Unite!

2010-08-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

Tiffani has wanted to host an I Love Lucy evening all year. I'm so glad she was able to do so before we move next week. Four of her Lucy-loving friends were able to attend.

Lucy Lovers:
Sierra, Kendel, Karah, Samandra & Tiffani

If laughter is the best medicine, their immune systems skyrocketed tonight. They watched 6 episodes and acted out their favorite scenes afterward.

Crazy Lucy Lovers
(Tiffani's holding the Vitameatavegamin bottle)

Westfield Mall Fashion Show

2010-08-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

Tiffani and Sierra were in Westfield Mall's 3rd Annual Fashion Show. This was Tiffani's 2nd year and Sierra auditioned this year & was selected. So fun to watch the kids & adults in our community up there on the stage.

Sierra & Tiffani on Rehearsal Night

Makeup

Hair

Tiffani in the mirror while Sierra's hair is styled.

Modeling for Aeropostale

Finale

Sierra, Tiffani & Samandra

All done!
Alexandrea, Sierra & Tiffani

Clouds, Mountains & Sky

2010-08-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

Jeff surprised us and came home 2 days early.

We popped out for an early Date Night and on the way home,

we saw these incredibly beautiful sights.

We picked up Tiffani, so she could see the valley...and stopped for dessert!

Looking west at Mt. San Jacinto

Looking southeast at "Tornado" Cloud with Moon

Behold, to the LORD your God
belong heaven and the highest heavens,
the earth and all that is in it.
~ Deuteronomy 10:14

Hawaii...or the desert??

2010-08-06T15:42:00.000-07:00

We spent time with Christine, Ashley and Austin today. [Ashley and Austin are Tiff's tennis buddies...it's how they met!] And they shared these beautiful pictures with us. Their family recently moved into this home that has a dock and a boat...a completely unexpected sight out here in the desert.

They blessed us with a delicious breakfast or fresh fruit, yogurt, chocolate croissants, cinnamon rolls...and tea, of course!

Later we were on the water touring the lake and watching the birds and coi at the feeders. Then the kids took the boat over to the clubhouse for games.
It was a refreshing time away from packing!

Big HUGS and THANK YOU to your family...

Traci, Tiffani, Ashley, & Christine
on the patio.

(Austin is taking the picture)

Austin, Tiffani & Ashley
on the porch swing.

In the boat...

off to play games.

Mr. and Mrs. Swan

Remind you of Hawaii?!

Favorite Books

2010-08-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.
Thomas Jefferson

He that composes himself is wiser than he that composes a book.
Benjamin Franklin

The good, the admirable reader identifies himself not with the boy or the girl in the book, but with the mind that conceived and composed that book.
Vladimir Nabokov

The things I want to know are in books; my best friend is the man who'll get me a book I ain't read.
Abraham Lincoln

If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all.
Oscar Wilde

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.
Saint Augustine

The ideas I stand for are not mine. I borrowed them from Socrates. I swiped them from Chesterfield. I stole them from Jesus. And I put them in a book. If you don't like their rules, whose would you use?
Dale Carnegie

You can't get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.
C. S. Lewis

I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book.
Groucho Marx

'What is the use of a book', thought Alice, 'without pictures or conversations?'
Lewis Carroll

All that I am I owe to Jesus Christ, revealed to me in His divine Book.
David Livingstone

"And behold, I am coming quickly

Blessed is he who heeds the words

of the prophecy of this book."
Revelation 22:7

Quilter's Faire

2010-07-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

It's so fun to be creative and craft together. This summer Tiffani and some of her friends took a sewing class at The Quilter's Faire. We all love this store! Everyone who works there is so nice and helpful. And Billie, the girls teacher for this purse project was amazingly patient. Tiffani had never tackled a project like this before. And it turned out beautifully, as did all the girls'. I love how the colors they chose suit their personalities.
Same project...different style.

Alexandrea, Lexi, Tiffani & Sierra

Sierra, Billie & Tiffani

Ta-dah!

Celebrating at Mimi's Cafe
Phyllis & Bethany

Happy Anniversary!

2010-07-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Birdie...

2010-07-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

No pictures today. Babies and Mama have flown away to their new lives...

And then there was one...

2010-07-12T17:04:00.000-07:00

Baby #2 hung out in the nest most of the day. Probably enjoyed having it all to himself. Elbow room! LOL! Do birds have elbows?! Baby #1 hopped from branch to branch still and Mama came back for frequent visits.

Taking Flight!

2010-07-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

What a blessing to see this entire process from start to finish. We awoke this morning to find one of the babies sitting on a branch very close to the nest.

Shortly thereafter, Mama (left) alighted beside her baby (right) and poked about at its wings, as if to encourage it to fly again. For about 30 minutes, the baby flitted short distances, from branch to branch. Mama always nearby for poking and encouragement.

Feeding Her Babies

2010-07-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

So excited to get a picture of her feeding the babies. We've seen her numerous times, but never had the camera close by!

"Mama!!!"

2010-07-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

Babies calling for Mama...

Mama answers their call...

Mama With Her Babies

2010-07-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

Mama with her babies...

Mama protecting her babies...

Fuzzy babies waiting for Mama...

Babies Crying For Mama...

2010-07-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

Mama spends quite a bit of time away from the nest.

It's HOT here! Over 110 degrees F.

Mama comes back in the hottest part of the day,

sits with her back to the sun, spreads her tail feathers & wings

to protect her babies from the scorching sun.

She gets thinner and thinner...
We want to go out and place something for shade in the tree!

We don't though. We don't want to disturb them.

Hummingbirds do this all the time!

Proud Mama!

2010-06-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

A proud mama with her two brand-new babies.

They are sooooo tiny!

(click on the picture so you can see them better)

Two Days Later...

2010-06-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hatched!

2010-06-27T08:04:00.000-07:00

Sewing with Cookie

2010-06-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

Fun times ahead! Tiffani has wanted to learn how to sew for some time now and she was blessed yesterday by Cookie, who gave her a sewing machine (and books, magazines & material) and has graciously told Tiffani that she'll help her with projects in the future. She'll work on some easier items first like blankets and simple skirts. Looking forward to her finished projects!

Two Eggs

2010-06-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Hummy was away from her nest this morning,
so Tiffani braved it on the step ladder, reached way up high
and took these pictures of the eggs.
Two babies coming soon!

Hummingbird Nest

2010-06-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

I was talking with Tiffani in the living room this afternoon and saw a hummingbird hovering by the window above our piano. We very often see them rest on a branch, but it just it didn't look the same from afar. I walked closer and found her sitting in her tiny nest. We'll watch for her to fly away and see if we can get pictures of her eggs...

Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow,
nor reap nor gather into barns,
and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.
Are you not worth much more than they?
And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?
~ Matthew 6:26-27

Tiffani's Graduation Reception

2010-06-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

We're so thankful that our friends and
family shared Tiffani's special day.

What a blessing!

Here are more graduation pictures posted at a later date.

HOPE

2010-05-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

For You are my HOPE;O Lord GOD, You are my confidence from my youth.
~ Psalm 71:5

My soul, wait in silence for God only,For my HOPE is from Him.
~ Psalm 62:5

Be strong and let your heart take courage,All you who HOPE in the LORD.
~ Psalm 31:24

Let Your lovingkindness, O LORD, be upon us,
According as we have HOPED in You.
~ Psalm 33:22

But now faith, HOPE, love, abide these three;
but the greatest of these is love.
~ 1 Corinthians 13:13

Now may the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace in believing,
so that you will abound in HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit.
~Romans 15:13

Looking Forward to Graduation...

2010-05-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word,
in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
~1 Timothy 4:12

Celebrate!

2010-05-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

Our Mother-Daughter Bible study has ended for the school year. We finished up the 3rd study in Elizabeth George's Young Woman's Collection.

We decided to celebrate by meeting at Yogurt Island...the best yogurt place in the desert! :-)

Hannah, Karah, Tiffani & Sierra

Lyndi, Yvonne, Traci & Phyllis

McCallum Theatre - LehrerDance

2010-05-21T18:17:00.000-07:00

The McCallum Theatre events were always favorites of ours when Tiffani was younger. This last one of the school year fit into our schedule, so we were there. We saw LehrerDance.

What a blessings to see all the younger girls togther. It reminds me of when Tiffani was younger and the group of 8-10 girls that would sit together at each McCallum event. So sweet!

Tiffani & Karah

Tiffani & Traci

End of School Year BBQ

2010-05-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Sarah, Tiffani, Samandra, Zack & LJ

Jerin, Tiffani & Lexi

Lexi, Tiffani, Samandra & Zack

Tiffani & Maria

Disneyland

2010-05-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

We visited Disneyland with the Emery's. What a beautiful day! The weather was perfect and how fun to re-experience the park with enthusiastic, 8-year old Jayde.

Jeff, Traci & Tiffani

Jayde, Jay & DeLora

Puttin' on the Ritz!

2010-05-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

We hosted a Dinner/Mystery set in the 1920's for Tiffani's Teen Scene group. What a great group of kids! All came dressed for an "exclusive after-party" from an awards show. Actors, Celebrities, Directors, and Talent Agents followed the clues throughout the evening to figure out Who Done It!

The Decorating Committee

Wiggles got into the act!

Party Favors

All 21 Actors & Celebrities in attendance.

Hannah & Hannah

Sierra & Karah

Zack, Tiffani, Sarah & Samandra

Dinner is served...

Back: Bryce, Luis, Zack, Patrick, Sarah, Kylie, Abby, Luke, Maddie, Karah. Front: Samandra, Hannah, Hannah & Kendel.

Back: Maddie, Luke, Karah, Katie, Sarah, Jared, Tiffani & Lexi. Front: Kendel, Hannah & Sierra.

Abby, Sierra, Tiffani, Kylie & Kendel

Luis, Zack, Patrick, Luke, Jared & Bryce

Hannah, Patrick, Karah, Tiffani, Sarah & Hannah

Zack, Hannah, Samandra, Hannah, Karah, Patrick & Tiffani

Super Sleuths who figured out the Who Done It!

Kendel, Bryce, Kylie, Abby, Katie, Maddie, Lexi & Sarah. And Luis (seated)

Voted for Best Performance:

Best Leading Man: Zack, director/producer

Best Supporting Actress: Kendel, talent agent

Best Lead Actress: Tiffani, millionairess/actress

Mamas in the kitchen...where else would mamas be?? LOL!

Lyndi, Leslie, Linda, Thelma, Phyllis & Traci
(where's Bethany??)

We will certainly miss DCHEA! So thankful that the friendships we've made over the last 11 years in this group will remain. These mamas really love the kids. Thank you Linda for making the majority of the costumes you see in these pictures! Thank you to Leslie and Lyndi for the Ritz Dinner ~ from purchasing food to clean-up. Thank you Bethany, Phyllis, and Thelma for filling in whereever you saw a need throughout the evening! This event would not have been the same without you! Love and Joy!!!

Senior Prom: La Lumier Da Pari

2010-04-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Getting Ready...

Karah & Tiffani

Traci & Tiffani

Jeff & Tiffani

All ready...

Let's Go!!!

Theme:

La Lumier Da Pari

(The Lights of Paris)

Elissa, Tiffani & Sierra

Rachelle & Elissa

Sarah, Tiffani & Samandra

Elissa, Karah & Tiffani

Zac was crowned king.

Sierra, Tiffani & Elissa

Samandra, Karah, Sierra, Sarah, Katie, Tiffani & Elissa

Sierra, Tiffani & Karah
Cha Cha Slide...

Under Cover...

2010-04-10T09:58:00.000-07:00

Wiggles had been sleeping for a while. He stretched out his foot and this pillow fell over on top of him. He didn't move for another couple hours. Must have felt cozy!

More Birthday Pictures

2010-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Another 15th Birthday Celebration at Grandma & Grandpa's home!

There is a God...

2010-04-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

A dear friend sent out this song to celebrate the One and Only God...from Whom all blessings flow. Through His lovingkindness and the petitions of fervant prayer warriors, she is cancer free. And is celebrating!

Her story and this song brought tears to my eyes this morning, as I remember what He's done for all of us and how nothing is too BIG for Him. Trust Him.

With a grateful heart...

Surprise 15th Birthday Party

2010-04-01T09:12:00.000-07:00

What a blessed day with friends! Thank you, Deborah for intiating this wonderful day and Phyllis, for getting the word out. Originally, the plan was to visit with Deborah & Christine with a couple other families before they went back to Canada. Then Deborah thought a surprise party for Tiffani would be fun. When we walked into The French Corner Cafe & Bakery, Tiffani was definitely surprised! She was definitely not expecting 10 of her friends to be joining her for lunch.

Christine, Sierra, Tiffani & Sarah

Hannah, Sarah, Tiffani & Christine

Sarah, Krysten, Carrie, Samandra, Sierra, Hannah, Hannah, Sarah, Tiffani & Christine (where's Karah??)

Yvonne, Sande, Deborah, Traci & Sherrill

Clockwise: Karah (in pink), Krysten, Carrie, Hannah & Hannah

Tiffani, Sarah, Christine, Lisa & Linda

Hannah, Sarah, Tiffani & Sarah

Linda, Traci & Deborah

Traci & Lyndi

Traci & Phyllis

Tennis Anyone??

2010-03-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

Taking a much needed break from SAT Studying, Tiffani played TENNIS with her friends, Ashley and Austin. They took lessons together last spring, but neither of our families have been able to fit those into the schedule again this year.

It was a gorgeous day! And they had a BALL! Hee hee!!

Tiffani's 5' 9" and counting...

PSWIFT Awards

2010-03-06T13:57:00.000-08:00

This was a fun event! Friends of ours, Dale and Patti, gave us 2 seats to the Palm Springs Women in Film & Television Awards Night.

Tiffani was able to join Jeff, where she met 3 of the award recipients (pictures to be downloaded from Jeff's iphone at another time)...including Barbara Sinatra, Lindsey Wagner, and producer Gale Anne Hurd.

Going out on the town...

Lemonade!

2010-02-21T18:03:00.000-08:00

We were recently given some fresh lemons from Helen's tree and thought we'd make lemonade on this gorgeous day. Here's our sugar-free, healthy treat!

Lemonade Recipe

1-1/2 cups Lemon Juice, fresh-squeezed

6 cups cold Water, pure

3 droppers Lemon Drop stevia

& a little Lemon zest

Combine all ingredients and serve.

Jeremiah, the baby goat...

2010-02-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

Tiffani's friend, Cassie, emailed a picture of their new baby goat...just born yesterday! Isn't he the cutest??? Cassie's family moved from California and bought a farm in Missouri about a year ago.

Friends are Blessings!

2010-01-17T12:50:00.000-08:00

On the CatWalk

2010-01-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

Not to be outdone, Wiggles walks the CatWalk! For years I've wanted to get pictures of him doing this! And he decides to allow me tonight of all nights!

The Suit

2010-01-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

Tiffani frequently helps Jeff at his speaking events. The conference rooms are cold! So we decided to buy her, her first suit. I think she likes it! Hee hee!!

BirthChoice Project

2010-01-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

Tiffani was assigned a Benevolence Project last month wherein she was to learn about a charitable organization, create a goal to contribute her own time/talent/treasure, and write a report about her experience. She chose BirthChoice of the Desert and will add a brief synopsis of her report to this post very soon. She met her monetary goal and donated 2 baby blankets as well. Tiffani donated a fleece blanket. And a big thank you and hug to Andi, who crocheted a beautiful blanket that Tiffani could give!

Baby items given to new moms in need.

Each new mom receives a bag of goodies and diapers for her precious baby.

Tiffani showing Andi's beautiful blanket.

Tiffani meeting with Patty Stringer...BirthChoice's Director.

Tiffani sharing with her class about her experience with BirthChoice.

Luke 18:16-17
But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

WildLights at The Living Desert

2009-12-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

Yvonne & Karah joined us at The Living Desert's WildLights this year. It was a chilly evening, but we enjoyed our hot chocolate and the ampitheatre's version of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

Tiffani & Karah

The girls with a giant teddy bear.

Christmas Day

2009-12-25T10:13:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Day with Grandma & Grandpa in their home. What a blessing for Mom to be completely recovered and Grandma to be healing well after her own life-threatening condition.

Grandma & Tiffani

Grandpa & Tiffani

Tiffani & Squeaker

Tiffani, Jeff & Traci

Dancing!

Taller by the Generation!

Chistmas Eve Blessings

2009-12-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve with old friends and new friends. Thank you Jarrett, Debbi, Kendel, Hudson and Rylan for inviting us to your home tonight. It was a relaxed and beautiful evening.

The kids performed an impromtu live nativity:
Joseph - Kendel
Mary - Rylan
Angel - Tiffani
3 Wise Men - Hudson, Peter & Paul

After Jarrett read the Story of Jesus' birth, we sang Christmas Hymns and Carols. We love being part of His family. :-)

Joseph & Mary

Angel

Three Wise Men

The Entire Cast

Jarrett & Debbi

Bridget, Dominic, Peter & Paul

Kendel & Tiffani

Jake & Hudson

Joyce & Bruce

Kendel, Tiffani & Jeff

Jeff, Traci & Tiffani

Kendel, Rylan, Jarrett, Debbi & Hudson

Neighborhood Christmas Caroling

2009-12-22T11:39:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful time together last night! Thank you to Everett, Phyllis, Sierra, Alexandrea and Grace-Hope for inviting us to join you on a Christmas Caroling tour around your neighborhood.

These children truly blessed so many with their voices lifted up in song. They were even told by one woman that it was "such a comfort" to have them come to her door! Another couple was just saying the other night that they were hoping they'd have carolers like they did last year (this same group!). Listeners wanted to know if they were from a certain church or group...they said, "No, we're just friends!"

Along with singing, the children gave out cookies and bags of homemade granola.

It was a little chilly and blustery last night! So when we all returned back to the lovely, warm home, warm apple cider and hot chocolate were waiting. The kids played Dutch Blitz. The mamas and papas chatted.

Tiffani, Karah, Sierra, Sarah

Melissa, Tiffani & Karah

Sierra, Emma, Katie & Emily

Melissa, Yvonne, Caswell, Trevor

Sierra, Emma, Tiffani

Sarah, Karah & Tiffani

Grace-Hope, Emily, Emma, Katie, Alexandrea

Carrie, Sierra, Karah, Tiffani, Sarah, Hannah & Katelyn

Yvonne & Trevor

Shining a Light in the darkness!

Everett & Phyllis

Dutch Blitz!

Everett & Chuck

Michelle, Traci, Phyllis & Lilly

Irene & Sherrill

Candy Cane Lane

2009-12-21T12:26:00.000-08:00

Kendel and Tiffani strolling down Candy Cane Lane.

The LEGEND of the Candy Cane

A Candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would help us remember who Christmas is really about. So he made a Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols for the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ.

He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus. Hard candy to symbolize the solid rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.

The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the name of Jesus. It also represented the staff of the "Good Shepherd."

The candymaker then included red stripes. He used three small stripes and a large red stripe to represent the suffering Christ endured at the end of his life.

The candy became known as a Candy Cane - a decoration seen at Christmas time. The meaning has faded, but still gives joy to children young and old, whom Jesus loves and treasures.

Ahhh...Paris...

2009-12-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

Since Tiffani was 4 years old, she wanted to learn the French language and has loved everything French from pastries to the Eiffel Tower. We found this wall art while we were Christmas shopping and she had the perfect space on her wall after we moved her furniture around a couple weekends ago.

Jeff helped her put up the tower and the words. I helped her with the stars. Wiggly-Woo supervised and napped. We also caught him taking a swipe at one of the lower stars...perhaps thinking it was a spider on the wall!

Bible Study, Birthday & Tea

2009-12-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

Karah, Hannah, Tiffani & Sierra

Traci, Yvonne & Lyndi

(missing Phyllis!)

Our Mother-Daughter Bible study just happened to fall on the same day as Karah's birthday. So we were all in for a treat when Karah's mom and sister put together this Birthday Tea! We had tea, hummus & crackers, and Pie Bites from Fresh & Easy. Loved the Peach tea! Yum!

Living without faith is like driving in the fog.

~ Elizabeth George*

* Elizabeth George is the author of the study we are using:

The Elizabeth George Young Woman's Collection

(It's great for us "little bit older than young women" too!)

Glasses for Tiffani!

2009-12-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

Tiffani loves her new glasses and being able to see! Woo woo!! No "four-eyes" for her ~ they're a Fashion Accessory! She wears them only to see the white board or watch a movie...and look at the stars in the sky...

For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream. ~ Vincent van Gogh

Hymn/Carol Sing & Roasted Marshmallows

2009-12-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

Clay, Justin & Andrew

Sarah, Carrie & Tiffani

Sarah & Tiffani

Carrie, Grace-Hope, Sierra & Alexandrea

Tiffani and some of her friends spent a chilly evening around a fire pit roasting marshmallows, drinking hot chocolate, and singing hymns and carols of Christmas.

The parents stayed inside where it was warm! Hee hee!! We could hear their singing though and it was beautiful!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T03:03:00.000-08:00

Psalm 100
4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
5 For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting,
And His truth endures to all generations.

Friends are Precious Gifts

2009-11-17T10:42:00.001-08:00

Leslie, Traci, Lyndi (birthday girl!) & Stacey

I was looking through some picture folders on my computer this morning and came across this one that made me smile. :-) We were celebrating Lyndi's birthday at Las Casuelas Quinta last summer. It's always a pleasure to take time to be with precious friends. [Looks like I didn't get the memo to wear a wild 'n crazy blouse. Hee hee!!]

"Friendship is like a violin;
the music may stop now and then,
but the strings will last forever."
~ Unknown

Santa Monica Pier

2009-11-15T20:08:00.000-08:00

Jeff had a meeting this weekend in Los Angeles, so we took off yesterday and had dinner at Houston's Restaurant in Manhattan Beach. Whenever Jeff has a chance to eat at a Houston's, we're there! :-) All roads lead to Houston's! We stayed at the hotel where the meeting took place. Tiffani and I enjoyed reading and chatting while Jeff was away.

And we enjoyed some Family Time today at the Santa Monica Pier. We had lunch outside at Rusty's Surf Ranch on the Pier. Then rode the Ferris Wheel. Jeff and Tiffani had a little treat, while I had Strawberry Cream green tea from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. One of my favorites!

We had a sunny, cloudless, warm day. We walked to the end of the pier and down the steps to see the posts holding up the hundreds of thousands of pounds of cars, restaurants and amusement rides on the pier...a sight to behold.

We watched talented pier performers: break-dancers, a man singing old Rock 'n Roll, a woman singing gospel, and painters. On the way out, Jeff threw 4 baseballs, which stayed in the red bucket, to win Tiffani a stuffed blue & pink puppy...that she immediately named Blink (combining blue & pink).

We passed by Muscle Beach on the way back to the car and found an empty bench with our names on it. We sat and soaked in the sun's rays for a while, watching acrobats and free-form dancers. Marveling at the strength of all ages climbing ropes thirty feet above the ground and swinging on rings.

Day 40 ~ So Much Can Happen in 40 Days!

2009-11-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

DAY 40!!!

* Noah was in the ark while it rained for 40 days and 40 nights.

* Moses was on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights.

* Elijah went to the mountain of God in 40 days and 40 nights,

on the strength of one meal provided by the angel of the LORD.

* Ezekiel was to lie on his right side and bear the iniquity

of the house of Judah for forty days, a day for each year.

* Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights prior to his temptation.

* He was tempted for 40 days.

* He taught the apostles upon his return for 40 days.

So much can happen in 40 Days! Amen and amen! :-)

This day marks the point where my day-counting ends and new life begins...

I was reminded yesterday that as I wait for 100%, that many people in this world have never even experienced 100%. At 90%+ today, I'm incredibly fortunate!

I am feeling soooooooo much better AND again I thank you all for your prayers and supplications on my behalf and on behalf of my family.

I'm not sure about the long-term ramifications of my condition, but I trust my heavenly Father and I am committed to doing what it takes to make them as minimal as possible.

I am filled with joy overflowing!

Romans 15:13

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,

so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Day 39 ~ Date Night

2009-11-13T07:22:00.000-08:00

What a blessing to feel 90% +! My lungs only released twice all day. My breathing is very good.

For the first time in 6 weeks, I was able to take Tiffani to Educational CoOp classes (Finance & Shakespeare) and Chemistry. Out of the house without feeling fatigued from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. Able to smile and laugh and have conversations ... feel normal.

When Jeff came home from the new Wellness Center, we realized we could actually resume our weekly Date Nights. Woo woo!! So, off we went ... dinner and a movie. And we spent some time with Tiffani when we came back home .

Life marches on ...

Day 38 ~ Hosanna! Our God Saves!

2009-11-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

3:11 PM ~ I made it to Bible study and had a great morning! Yippee!!!

Having studied then discussed the 7th chapter of Revelation, I'd like to share our opening and closing songs ...Hosanna & Our God Saves... how very appropriate ...

Day 37 ~ Raw Foods

2009-11-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

1:34 PM ~ I just returned home from Marilyn's and my footbath water was the lightest orange that it's been. Yeah! I shared that mornings are still a little difficult for me and she said that sounds like it will be my indicator for completely renewed health.

Right now mornings are difficult since the body uses resting and sleep for continued detoxification. My body works hard overnight. :-) When I am able to hop out of bed like I used to, I will know my body is cleansed.

I brought home more highly-alkalized water for the humidifier and will continue this treatment at home. My lungs have been releasing less and less resinous goop as the days go by.

I always learn something interesting when I have time with Marilyn. She shared more about Raw Food today ... including some incredible desserts. I browsed through 4 cookbooks by Kristen Suzanne and can't wait to try some of the recipes!

Pina Colada Muffins

2009-11-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

Pina Colada Muffins

3 eggs
2 T coconut oil (or butter), melted
1/6 cup agave nectar (or 1/4 cup sugar)
1/4 t salt
1/4 cup coconut flour, sifted
1/4 t baking powder
1/2 c pineapple, finely chopped
3 T coconut, grated

1. Preheat oven at 400 degrees F.
2. Blend together eggs, coconut oil, agave, and salt.
3. Combine coconut flour with baking powder and whisk into the batter until there are no lumps.
4. Fold pineapple into batter.
5. Pour batter into greased muffin cups
6. Sprinkle grated coconut on top.
7. Bake for 16-18 minutes.
Makes 6 regular size muffins, or 12 mini muffins.

Day 36 ~ Tea & Friends

2009-11-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

10:15 AM ~ Today is beginning wonderfully...I feel nearly 100%. Seems amazing after all this time!

Yesterday, I had a slow start, but by 10:30 AM I seemed to be moving about fine. :-) I took it easy and had fun preparing for the Moms Night Out (for our homeschool support group). Tiffani made Pina Colada Muffins and Brownies (with and without Peppermint Cream Cheese frosting). I'll post the recipes in a different post. The Muffins were a huge hit! No flour or sugar! And she helped me decorate and plate the goodies.

As it was a "Welcome" Tea for our new members, I made a pot of Apple Cinnamon and set out a pot of hot water and my tea basket & strainers. We also had Brie, Grapes, Crackers, Cream Cheese & Pomegranate Salsa on little toasts, and mozzarella/tomato salad. And dates & flowers, from Futterman Farm...thank you, Gale!

I had to cancel last month's MNO, which had over 25 moms RSVP'd. Tonight we totalled seven. Each month is different. It was a beautiful and moving evening. Lots of sharing, remembering, prayer and encouragement. I was so blessed to be in the company of Debbi, Marcie, Gale, Andrea, Jeanette, and Lezanne. Three new home educating mamas, three veterans, and one who came to bless and encourage since she has graduated all of her children.

I love being amongst women who love their husbands and their children.

Who love being wives and mothers.

Who love watching their children grow

into whom they've been created to become.

Who love sharing what the Lord is doing in their lives...

Day 34 ~ Blessings Flow...

2009-11-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

Praise Him from Whom all blessings flow...

I had a really good day! I'm believing that this little adventure is coming to an end.

Yesterday my lungs released a solid chunk of something...I wish I could have expelled it, but it was too large for me to "cough" up. So I had to swallow it. It felt like the size of a large capsule when it lodged in the right side of my throat. I ate some sprouted bread to push it down and took an herbal intestinal formula right away to make sure whatever it was didn't stay in my body long.

Since that experience, I've had one other solid piece of something release...this one being much smaller.

We spent a couple hours out as a family today...seeing Jeff's new Wellness Center that opens tomorrow and having lunch out. It was just so wonderful being out and about with my family again. Feeling normal.

Prayer Requests:
- Weight now: 104 ~ praying for increased activity to build muscle mass, which is the only way I've ever been able to keep weight on.

Praises:
- I can breathe so much better after my lungs release more.
- Emotionally, I am so encouraged, which helps me see an end to all of this...which in turn helps me feel better.

Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely.

~Auguste Rodin

Day 33 ~ Seeing Beauty in Everything...

2009-11-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

8:53 AM ~ Had an interesting night...coughing woke me up twice and both times my lungs released more...and both times I was perspiring profusely. Oooohhh...just like we've told Tiffani since she was young: God made our bodies so smart!!!

Despite the two wake-up calls, I had a great night's sleep. I feel refreshed this morning...my best morning all week. I have the humidifier going and about 10 minutes ago my lungs released the largest amount yet! Each time it releases, I can breathe even better.

Tiffani has joined me in my room this morning for breakfast. I have the corner-window blinds open, which reveal beautiful Birds of Paradise. The hummingbirds love them, so we've had quite a show this morning. I have a chaise that sits directly in front of this window and it's not unusual for these curious and tiny birds to hover and look in or simply sit on a leaf and rest for a bit. When I was a child living in another area, I never saw hummingbirds just sit. Out here it happens all the time.

Like the hummingbird sipping nectar from every flower, I fly joyfully through my days, seeing beauty in everything.
~ Amethyst Wyldfyre

Broccoli Celery Soup

2009-11-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

I have another EASY soup recipe with various options to share...

Broccoli Celery Soup
2 hand-sized clusters of fresh Broccoli, broken into florets (slice & use stem too)
1 Onion, sliced
6 celery ribs, chopped
1-1/2 cup+ Vegetable Broth
1 tomato or several grape/cherry tomatoes, diced
Olive Oil
Bragg's Liquid Aminos

1. Steam broccoli in a little vegetable broth. Steam only until broccoli is warm (do not let broth boil). Should still be crunchy and bright green. And you shouldn't be able to smell it cooking.
2. Saute the onions in a bit of olive oil...they become so sweet.
3. Add celery to the onions. Saute for just 3-4 minutes.
4. Into a Vitamix, add broccoli, then the onions/celery.
5. Pour vegetable broth into the Vitamix until the liquid comes to the 1-1/2 cup mark.
6. Mix on speed 5-6 for about 30 seconds...until all ingredients are combined.
7. Pour into a bowl and add about 10 drops of Bragg's Liquid Aminos. Stir.
8. Top with tomatoes.
Delicious!

Another Option:
Last night before topping with the tomatoes, I added some cooked brown/wild rice. It made a real "meaty" soup.

Day 32 ~ Pressing On...

2009-11-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

10:37 AM ~ I had thought about cancelling my detox appointment yesterday since I felt so bad, but my wise Tiffani said that was the exact reason I needed make that appointment. :-)

So, I went to my appointment and Marilyn suggested that I use a humidifier with 11.5 pH water (highly micro-clustered). I used it while I was there and she sent home some of the water with me, so I could do the same at home.

I used the humidifier last night and had a little something come out of my lungs. But that was nothing compared to what came out this morning! Wow! So far this morning, I've had 4 balls (1" to 1-1/2") of white/clear goop come out.

I awoke with hardly anything on top of my soft palate this morning. When I took a deep breath upon waking this morning, I coughed like crazy and balls came out for the next hour or so.

*It's important to note that the substance coming out of my lungs is white/clear in color, not yellow/green as in the case of a cold or flu.

There has been much concern about my weight loss and I'm encouraged that all will be fine. I was reminded that healing takes a lot of the body's energy. Digesting food takes an enormous amount of energy. So I will keep eating Vitamix meals, which are easily digestable and not force myself to eat when I'm not hungry.

And I may start Sprouting...for extra nutrients in a compact form.

7:48 PM ~
A truly remarkable day! My lungs released at least 4-5 more balls of goop throughout the day. I'm so thankful that it's leaving my body. I was able to pick Tiffani up from her Chemistry class and chat with Sande, Cindy and Leslie for a bit. And to Tiffani's chemistry teacher about my condition...very eye-opening.

After we got home, Tiffani told me about her CoOp and Chemistry classes. As we chatted, I actually began to feel hungry. I called Jeff and asked him if he'd like to take us out to dinner when he got home. :-) He picked us up and I was able to eat a half salad and a little chicken.

Philippians 4:
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Day 31 ~ I Can Do All Things...

2009-11-05T11:26:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

11:27 AM ~ Good morning! I'm so sorry to report that this is my worst morning yet after the sinuses opened up. Functioning at about 65-70% today. I'm just exhausted after having about 2-3 hours sleep.

Yesterday, my words were Strength and Strong, so I'm hanging onto those today. :-)

I thought about rescheduling my detox appointment today (I really don't feel like driving), but I know I need to be there to keep these toxins on the run.

Prayer Requests:
- Increased appetite...not very hungry.
- Restful sleep tonight

Praises:
- Something wonderful happened yesterday to show me that God is answering my prayers and moving on my behalf and others.

Love knows no limit to its endurance,

no end to its trust,

no fading of its hope;

it can outlast anything.

Love still stands when all else has fallen.

~ Anonymous