Under the Tree

There isn't one gift in the world that I have loved and appreciated as much as these.

I'm so thankful for Ruby and Maxwell.

Hopefully Max will sit still long enough for a photo in the next day or two... no promises though!

Only a Week Til Christmas

Here we are, only one week away from Christmas. I'm slowly ticking things off my list--shopping for the kids (check!), party planning and execution (check!), and all those Christmas crafts... well, they're coming along in between sneezing, coughing, changing diapers, and preparing meals, snacks, etc.

We've also been stuck inside quite a bit this week with bitter cold temperatures and icy conditions. Thankfully, we do have power and heat, unlike many of our neighbors to the north. Max and Ruby have been creative in their play--finding new (and questionable) uses for old toys and putting on shows for me. Hope you enjoy their performances as much as I have!

Christmas Cookies!

First of all, for those that were wondering and praying for me, the Christmas in Denmark party for Friday Footsteps went perfectly. Everyone had a great time and learned a little something too. The craft was challenging, but doable and everyone went home with a bag of Pebber Nodder (tiny Danish spice cookies), a Danish Christmas Heart basket, and a smile on their face. I won't tell you how much fun it was to make 93 dozen peppernuts in a day, but they were enjoyed and appreciated, so it was worth it.

Today marks my final Christmas commitment--a cookie party I'm hosting for a few ladies from my MOPS group! In honor of all my cookie making, I thought I'd post up a few recipes.

First is a family favorite that we've enjoyed at Christmas time since we were kids...

Coconut Date Balls

2 eggs, beaten

1 c. white sugar

1 c. chopped dates

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 T. butter

3 c. Rice Krispies

1 c. flaked coconut

1. In a medium saucepan over MED heat, combine eggs, sugar, and dates. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Stir in the butter and vanilla. Mix in cereal.
3. Butter hands and roll the mixture into walnut-sized balls. Finally, roll the balls in coconut.
4. Store in an airtight container once cooled to room temperature.

This next recipe is a staple Danish cookie that everyone loves. Cardamom is an expensive spice, but if you can visit an ethnic food store (esp. Indian) they will have it in large quantities for next to nothing.

Pebber Nodder (Peppernuts)

1 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. ground cardamom
2 tsp. cinnamon

1. Preheat the oven to 350F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, stirring until light and fluffy.
4. Combine the flour, cardamom, and cinnamon. Stir into the sugar mixture just until blended.
5. Separate the dough into six balls.
6. Roll each ball into a rope about as big around as your finger on a lightly floured surface.
7. Cut into 1/2-inch pieces, roll into balls, and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

This is why my head is spinning

I think I have a problem. I think Christmas cheer and fun and traditions and I think... I MUST DO IT ALL! RIGHT NOW! So, here's a few of the things I've been working on the last few weeks. This isn't everything and several of these projects are still unfinished, but it's a sampling.


Years ago, back in Idaho, I purchased a bunch of Christmas fabric at JoAnn's for something silly like $1/yard or something. So, since I have the sewing machine now, I thought, "Hey, why don't I make a tree skirt this year!?!" So, Jared and I spent hours cutting fabric and I have been sewing away. Here's a sample of the skirt with the prairie point star at the tip. I think it will be nice if I ever get a chance to finish it!

I accepted the challenge to organize the Christmas party for Friday footsteps this year. So, we're doing Christmas in Denmark. It's been fun, but a bit stressful prepping crafts, decorations, making nut-free Danish Christmas yummies, and trying to come up with something short, sweet, and meaningful to share with the kids about Christmas in DK.

One of the first things I worked on back in November was the ornaments and devotionals for our Jesse Tree. I ended up using info from various sources, but mostly from the Reformed Church of America's website. I ended up getting a small Christmas tree and then buying little wooden ornaments that I painted the images on (poorly, but recognizably!). Ruby has been following along very well each night and can't wait to do our devotional and hang up the new ornament.

Yesterday, I said, "Let's make sugar cookies!". Here is Ruby proudly posing with the fruit of our labor. It was not exactly the least stressful thing I've ever done, but it was worth it to hear Ruby say, "This is the best day ever!". She sure is soaking up Christmas. Max, on the other hand, was busy upturning the kitchen trash and scaring me witless with numerous load crashes throughout the house. He also enjoyed stealing cookies. What a kid.

Oh, and did I mention he thinks he's potty training. I still haven't totally hopped on the wagon, but something tells me this little boy is getting big boy underwear for Christmas!

Happy Christmas!

Thanksgiving 2008

Better late than never, I decided to post some pictures from our Thanksgiving in Maine!

Our good friends, the Schmidt family, whom we met at FIBC in Denmark, invited us to spend the holiday with their family at their home in Bowdoin, ME! We were so excited to spend some time with them and the kids are always up for an outing. Ruby wanted to stay for a loooong time and was disappointed to hear that we'd only be spending two nights there.

This photo is one that Isabelle took right before we dug into the feast she had prepared!

I had hoped that I would be more help to Isabelle, but Max woke up that morning with a 102F temperature and was feeling absolutely miserable, so I ended up spending the morning watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade while she and her girls, Natalie and Olivia, worked hard in the kitchen.

Jared, Jon, and Olivia decided to do their own Turkey Trot around Bowdoin. Aside from aching feet (on Jared's part), the trek was enjoyed by all. Jared has decided to take up running and would eventually like to try a marathon. I think we'll get him some new running shoes before then. ;)

The feast was amazing--sweet potatoes, squash, mashed potatoes, succotash, green bean casserole, chestnut stuffing, cranberry relish, homemade rolls, turkey and ham! Oh, and there were FOUR pies. I'm pretty sure that they ate off that meal for a week!

After dinner, Ruby decided to do a little photojournalism. She took about ten pictures of the ham... apparently it was a very interesting subject! Some of the family said that they could see a face in there somewhere... I'm not seeing it, but maybe I just haven't had enough egg nog!


After dinner, we enjoyed relaxing a bit. Jared and I worked on cutting material for a tree skirt that I was just starting, while Ruby made this adorable turkey from felt and dyed corn husks! That Isabelle is a crafty one!

Max spent the afternoon in his bed napping... After a while, I ended up joining him, finally succumbing to that nasty old virus myself.

After naps, we both felt a bit better and were able to enjoy the rest of the evening including a very competitive game of Pictionary! I'm proud to say that Jared, Olivia and I won-- twice. Not that I keep track of things like that!

We'll close with this shot of Ruby warming up with her hot cocoa after a walk in the woods.

Thank you, Schmidts, for a wonderful Thanksgiving. And sorry for bringing the black death to your doorstep. Hope you still love us!

Hello!

Hmmm... The title of this post looks and sounds a lot more upbeat than I do this week.

I just wanted to let y'all know that I may be out of commission for a few more days. The kids and I are passing around viruses like a hot potato game. Today I have a sinus infection and ear ache. Max has goo coming out of his nose and eyes. And Ruby is just plain grouchy because she's been stuck in the house too long.

You wanna come over?

Just kidding.

I'll be back when my face doesn't resemble a blotchy jelly donut. Until then, stay well.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I've learned that joy isn't about what you have and being thankful isn't about what your lacking. I'm counting my blessings today and you're one of them.

I'm thankful for...
1. My Savior, Father, and Friend
2. My wonderful husband, Jared
3. My two beautiful kids, Ruby and Maxwell
4. My sisters, Heidi, Alyssa, and Christina
5. My extended family
6. Wonderful friends
7. A warm home
8. Delicious food
9. A never ending supply of good books to read
10. Millions of untried recipes at my fingertips
11. A warm shower
12. Ring around the rosy with my kiddos
13. Rainy days and blanket forts
14. Warm cookies
15. Smiles
16. Kisses and hugs
17. Cellphones
18. Down comforters
19. Swimming with the kids
20. Grace for today
21. Peace
22. Music
23. Game nights
24. Crisp autumn days
25. So much more...

Poor Little Froggy

We are in the midst of cold virus round two in our house. Thankfully no one has felt too terrible, but Ruby has had some pretty funny comments about her ailments.

(After a fit of coughing.)

R:Ugh! I think I swallowed a fly!

(Just afer waking up.)

R: Mommy, I think I have a little froggy in my throat. It said, "ribbit, ribbit".

Max has tried to cure Ruby's ailments with oodles of squeezes and smooches. I think it's working. ;)

Spicy Cranberry Chutney

In honor of Thanksgiving, I'm posting a favorite side/condiment--Spicy Cranberry Chutney. Be advised, the ginger does intensify, so you may want to decrease the ginger if you aren't totally crazy for it like me!

Spicy Cranberry Chutney

1/4 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup raisins
1 cup water
3 cups fresh cranberries
1 Granny Smith apple - peeled, cored and chopped
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1. In a saucepan, combine apricots, brown sugar, raisins and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and stir while simmering for 5 minutes. Stir in cranberries, apple and lemon zest; simmer for 10 minutes more.
2. Stir lemon juice, ginger and pepper flakes into the mixture before removing from heat.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Let's Say Thanks

I don't say thank you nearly often enough to our troops. I've read about the thumbs up thing and am always being encouraged to do something to say "thank you". This website allows you to do it well and easily. It takes 2 minutes and it might really make someone's day. Give it a try!

You want to WHAT?!

For the last week or so, Max has been taking some big leaps that I, personally, did not expect (or necessarily want) him to take for a good long time yet! He has decided that he's ready to use the potty chair. His efforts are not terribly consistant, but he's definitely trying with some success.


My latest struggle is how can I keep a diaper on the kid?! It seems like every few minutes he's stripping from the waist down (socks too!) and shouting "Poo! Poo!" as he scoots to the bathroom. Then, after he's given a token few grunts, he's off and playing again sans diaper!

Last weekend, Max walked in on Daddy using the bathroom. He was pretty interested in the whole standing up and peeing thing, especially after Jared said, "See, this is how you're supposed to do it!". The next morning, I heard Max head into the bathroom, strip down to his diaper, flip up the toilet lid and seat (the BIG toilet, not his potty chair), stand up against the toilet and he went! Granted, he was wearing a diaper (thankfully), but he sure was proud of himself for peeing like a big boy!

I've decided not to sweat it. I have a feeling that this is just one of those "I'm kinda interested" phases, not the "let's pull out the training pants" process. Seems like Ruby had a few of these spurts before we really got serious. For now we'll just see how it goes. Maybe I'll luck out and he'll potty train himself!

Two, two, two books for one!

Something I failed to mention in Monday's post is that I kind of threw out my back (again) last Thursday morning. I was doing something extremely dangerous and hazardous--pulling a box of cereal off the top shelf of our kitchen cabinet. Thankfully, Kay was here so I was able to lie down a lot and give the strained muscles the rest they needed. So, I had a little bit of down time. Actually a lot. Suffice it to say, I ended up reading TWO books last week. Two pretty think ones!

The first book in Francine Rivers' Mark of the Lion series, A Voice in the Wind, was on the top of my stack. This book came highly recommended by several of you and also others that don't read this fantabulous blog (imagine that!).

I have to admit that this was a tough read for me. I'm not sure if it was the totally foreign time period or the repulsive behavior of the Roman citizens. I could not drum up concern or love for the characters for the first 75% of it. Even Hadassah seemed out of reach. As a Christian in the United States we have never had to suffer the persecution that was an every day occurrence and danger for her. As a result, Hadassah's faith was much stronger than mine. She was forced to lean on God for his leading in every situation. She was forced to weigh the balance in every conversation of wanting to share the Truth, but fear for her life.

As I was reading, God reminded again and again to pray for those brothers and sisters in Asia and Africa who face this same danger and persecution unto death daily. I've been prompted to ask for my own testing, that my faith may be strengthened. I think we can be certain that testing is coming, even to America, in the not so distant future.

So, my final analysis is that it's worth the read. It's not necessarily a fun read, but a good one. I picked up the second book in the series at our church library this Sunday and look forward to reading how God continues to work among these broken people.

And now for something completely different!

The next book in my pile was the second book in the Twilight series, New Moon by Stephenie Meyer. This book was a roller coaster ride that just didn't quit.

After a seemingly innocent incident, Edward and his family decide to leave Forks and Bella behind; certain that if they stay they will only be hurting her. After they leave, life is anything but boring, as Bella forges deeper friendships with some and leaves other friends behind. She's never able to get over the loss of Edward and begins doing riskier and riskier things in order to hear "hallucinations" of his voice. Bella's final daredevil act results in a domino effect adventure that takes her all the way to Europe.

I was entranced by the book from cover to cover and didn't want to put it down for anything this weekend! Needless to say, I've already put the next two books in the series on my queue at the library! Hopefully I don't have to wait too long otherwise I may be dragging the kids to Barnes & Noble for some extended play time at the train table!

Happy reading everyone!

Nutty Pumpkin Waffles

We all really enjoyed these delicious waffles for Jared's birthday breakfast. Hope you enjoy them as mush as we did. Don't be scared of the pumpkin in the maple syrup--it's delicious!

Nutty Pumpkin Waffles



2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
3/4 cup chopped nuts

1 cup maple syrup
3/4 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1. COMBINE flour, sugar, cornstarch, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger and nutmeg in large bowl. Combine egg yolks, milk and pumpkin in medium bowl; mix well. Add to flour mixture. Stir in butter. Beat egg whites in small mixer bowl until soft peaks form. Gently fold into pumpkin mixture.
2. PREHEAT waffle iron according to manufacturer's directions. Depending on size of waffle iron, pour 1/2 cup to 1 1/2 cups batter onto hot iron. Generously sprinkle with nuts. Bake for 4 to 5 minutes or until steaming stops. Repeat with remaining batter and nuts. Serve with Pumpkin Maple Sauce.
3. HEAT 1 cup maple syrup, 3/4 cup LIBBY'S® 100 Percent Pure Pumpkin and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon in small saucepan until warm.

A Week With Nana

I'm not good at keeping secrets. Actually, I'm really terrible at it. I'm especially bad at keeping secrets from my Hubby. So, when Jared came home from work on Tuesday to see his Mama frying okra in our kitchen, he was shocked that I had managed to keep her visit a surprise! I told him that just keeping the secret should be counted as a birthday gift to him!

So, this last week we've been busy shopping, cooking, playing games, and just enjoying our weekly routine with Nana by our side.

As you can see, the kids were eager to learn some new tricks from their Nana. Every morning while Kay got ready, Ruby and Maxwell were right by her side primping--blusher, eyeshadow, lipstick, and gloss. I'm pretty sure Ruby knows more about the art of make-up application than I do at this point!

Max decided to accentuate his curls with a few rollers! He loved putting them in Nana's hair and even tried to put them in my hair! The curlers weren't up to the challenge of my long curly hair I'm afraid... it just is what it is.

On Wednesday evening, Jared and I were able to go out for dinner and a movie and went to see Fireproof, a movie that had been highly recommended by the teachers of the marriage class we're taking at church. I won't go into detail here, but it's a good one and I might post on it later in the week.

On Thursday we took the kids to Chuck E. Cheese for the first time. It's safe to say we all had a great time. The kids climbed through the tunnels, ate pizza, played games, got their picture drawn by Chuck E., and got very excited about their little prizes at the end of the evening. An added bonus was that the place was almost deserted. Hopefully we can arrange that again for our next visit. ;) On the way home Ruby was already asking if we could come back the next night. She's also alerted us that she would really like to have her birthday party there. She doesn't quite get it that her birthday is still 6 months away!

Friday we were able to have our family party for Jared's 31st birthday. He missed the Danish tradition of bringing a cake to work on your birthday. It was kind of nice to have a small celebration at work with friends and colleagues on your big day and theirs. Yet another small thing we are realizing that we'll always miss about DK.

Just this morning, Jared mentioned that he's already missing the Christmas lunches (which are in full swing all around Denmark!). It wouldn't be at all unusual to go to half a dozen or more lunches in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Danes truly are good at celebrating and maintaining friendships... something we in the US could use more of.

Jared enjoyed pineapple upside down cake at home for his birthday this year and the kids enjoyed helping him open his gifts. While several of Jared's gifts were on the practical side, he did receive a gift card that allowed him to splurge over the weekend. As a proud owner of a new iTouch, I'm not sure I'll be seeing a lot of him for a while. :) I'm so thankful that he was able to get something fun for himself. He doesn't do that nearly often enough.

Happy birthday, sweetheart. I love you more every day!

Fiesta Mexicana!

We had some friends over for dinner last weekend and everyone liked the meal so much that I'm going to put the recipes up here. I've made all of these things, with the exception of the dessert, several times and we have always enjoyed the meal. See allrecipes.com for the printable recipes. Happy cooking!


Ronaldo's Beef Carnitas

4 pounds chuck roast
1 (4 ounce) can green chile peppers, chopped
2 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cloves garlic, minced
salt to taste

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
2. Place roast on heavy foil large enough to enclose the meat. In a small bowl, combine the green chile peppers, chili powder, oregano, cumin, garlic and salt to taste. Mix well and rub over the meat.
3. Totally wrap the meat in the foil and place in a roasting pan.
4. Bake at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the roast just falls apart with a fork. Remove from oven and shred using two forks.
5. Serve with typical taco fixin's... tortillas/hard shells, cheese, salsa, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, etc.
   

Mexican Rice III

1 cup long grain white rice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 fresh jalapeno pepper, chopped
1 tomato, seeded and chopped
1 cube chicken bouillon
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 clove garlic, halved

1. In a medium sauce pan, cook rice in oil over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Stir in onion, green pepper, jalapeno, and diced tomato. Season with bouillon cube, salt and pepper, cumin, cilantro, and garlic. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes.
   
   

Calabacitas con Queso

1 1/2 pounds zucchini, cut into bite sized pieces
1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn
1 medium onion, sliced
1 medium green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1 medium tomato, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons white sugar
1 1/2 pounds Monterey Jack cheese, cubed

1. In a saucepan with a lid, combine zucchini, corn, onion, green pepper, tomato, and vegetable oil. Cover, and cook over medium heat until tender.
2. Gently stir in the sugar; add cheese on top, but do not stir. Cover, and continue cooking until cheese is melted. Stir, and add remaining cheese; cover, and continue cooking until melted. Serve warm as a side dish or in tortillas.
   

D's Famous Salsa

2 (14.5 ounce) cans stewed or diced tomatoes
1/2 onion, finely diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup canned sliced green chiles, or to taste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

1. Place the tomatoes, onion, garlic, lime juice, salt, green chiles, and cilantro in a blender or food processor. Blend on low to desired consistency.
2. Hint: As I discovered on Saturday night, you can also use canned diced tomatoes with green chiles if you don't have the cans of green chiles on hand.
   

Pumpkin Cheesecake II

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup ground pecans
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
3/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup canned pumpkin
3 egg yolks
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground mace
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese
3/8 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons whipping cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
whole pecans for topping/decoration (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, ground pecans, 2 tablespoons white sugar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and the melted butter or margarine and mix well. Firmly press mixture into one 9 inch springform pan.
3. Combine 3/4 cup of the white sugar, the pumpkin, 3 egg yolks, ground cinnamon, ground mace, ground ginger and salt in a medium bowl. Mix well, and set aside.
4. Beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until light and fluffy; gradually add 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons white sugar and mix well. Add the whole egg, remaining egg yolk and the whipping cream, beating well. Add cornstarch and vanilla and lemon flavorings, beat batter until smooth. Add pumpkin mixture and mix well. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
5. Top with whole and chopped pecans as in photo.
6. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 50 to 55 minutes. Do not overbake. Center may be soft but it will firm up when chilled. Let cheesecake cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate til ready to serve.

Peace

As I am sitting here frantically preparing for my Friday Footsteps lesson tonight, I'm struck again by God's great sense of humor. You see, our lesson tonight is on "Peace".

After a morning filled with running errands, swimming lessons, uneaten lunches (on the kids' part, not mine) and plenty of bickering, this lesson really hits home. I'm anything but calm and peaceful. My chest is tight, my back is sore, and I just need a moment of QUIET!!

I find time and time again, that it isn't the big decisions that worry me, it's just day to day life. Can I get the chores done without a screaming toddler hanging on my leg? Will I have time to do my CBS homework today? Are we going to be late? Why can't people in Massachusetts drive?!?

I'm reminded today that I must flee from this worry wart tendency! I mean could this be any clearer?!

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. (Psalm 37:8)

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (I Peter 5:7)

Now let's claim that peace!

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

A Word from Ruby

Car seats have been an issue for Ruby since the day she was born. Truly, I believe she screamed the first time we strapped her in at the hospital and really never got out of the habit. Jared and I will never forget one very long car trip when she was around 18 months old that she literally screamed for HOURS. It wasn't crying... it was screaming bloody murder. We also vividly remember that that was the day Daddy almost had to have Mommy committed to the loony bin. It wasn't pretty.

Finally, though, Ruby has reached the age, height, and weight necessary to graduate to a booster seat. Hurray! No more five point harness for her skirts and dresses to get balled up in! No more straps pulling down on her shoulders! No more screaming! (Well, the last part is actually still up for debate, but I'm hoping for the best.)

After very little debate, Ruby selected this booster seat as her new "home away from home". It's called "Heart's Delight". Let's hope so.

The initial signs are good that this seat may be a big step in the right direction.

On the way home from Target last night, here's what Ruby had to say. (Keep in mind it was PITCH DARK outside!)

R: "Everyone that goes past me think I'm cool now with my seat belt and new seat!!"

Yes. they do, honey. Yes, they do.

The Friday Night Knitting Club

It seems I've been enjoying a lot of really great books lately and I have another one to share with you today. The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs was one of those great stories that will make you laugh and cry. I found myself really caring for the characters and when I hit that last page I was wishing the story wasn't over. Here's a synopsis from the book's website:

A single mom in her 30s, Georgia juggles the Walker & Daughter knitting store with raising her spunky teen daughter, Dakota. Georgia's customers gather to work on their latest projects and chat about love, life, and every thing. The members of the club are as varied as the yarn in the shop: There's Peri, a pre-law student turned hand- bag designer; Anita, a silver-haired uptown matron; Darwin, a somewhat aloof grad student; K.C., an out-of-work editor looking for inspiration, and Lucie, a television producer with surprises up her sleeve. Soon their quiet Fridays are shaken up: Georgia's ex wants a role in Dakota's life –and possibly Georgia's as well. Cat, a former high school friend, uneasily renews her bond with Georgia. And when the unthinkable happens, the knitting club realizes they've created a sisterhood.

I discovered today that Knit Two, the sequel to The Friday Night Knitting Club, goes on sale on Nov 25! I know what I'm putting on my Christmas wish list!

Cajun Chicken Pasta

I know my Hubby is wondering why I haven't shared this recipe with you before since it IS absolutely wonderful and one of his all time favorite dinners. An added bonus is that it's a relatively quick meal to put together and perfect paired with some garlic bread and a green salad. You will find other versions of this recipe on allrecipes.com, but this is our tried and true version. Enjoy!

Cajun Chicken Pasta

8 ounces penne, rotini, or your favorite pasta
1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, chopped
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoons butter
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
8-10 fresh mushrooms, chopped
1 green onion, chopped
1 1/2 cup light cream or half-and-half
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (even the green can is yummy in this!)

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to box instructions until al dente; drain.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Saute the chicken in butter with Cajun seasoning until almost tender (5 to 7 minutes).
3. Add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, mushrooms and green onion. Saute and stir for 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat.
4. Add the cream, basil, lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Heat until cheese is melted. Add the cooked pasta, toss, and heat through. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and serve.

More Halloween Fun!

I had to post up a few pictures really quickly of our kiddos all dudded up. They ended up with a combination night of trick-or-treating with Daddy and playing at the Fall Festival at church too. They both had a great time and came home with a TON of loot!

Max, in his puppy costume, was a big hit! This was at our last stop at 9pm at night! As you can see, he'd dipped into his candy bag and was running high on sugar!

Ruby, at the same stop, in her fairy princess costume. We were walking up to the mega decorated house I mentioned yesterday and she was just taking it all in. They probably had twice as many decorations on the big night and tons of people were there.

Ruby was excited when she first put on her costume at church. You can't tell, can you!?

SISTER!! STOP!!!

Happy Halloween!

I've heard that there's one in every town, but I think these folks might take the cake! This house takes decorating to a startling new level for every imaginable holiday. Halloween has brought out dozens of inflatable decorations along with the lights, window decorations, etc. They actually share a driveway with their neighbors and now some of the decorations have started to spill into the neighbors yard. It's impressive.

The night that we pulled over to take this photo there were actually about a dozen people milling around the yard looking at all the decorations!! It was pretty funny. Hopefully we'll have our good camera with us tonight to get a better photo. Til then, this gives you an idea of the craziness. Jared has suggested that I start a new series tracking their decorations, so just you wait... Thanksgiving is just around the corner!

I'll close with a picture of the kids' jack-o-lanterns that we carved on Wednesday night! Predictably, Max LOVED the goo and Ruby refused to get her hands messy. What a girl.

Lastly, I found this poem/prayer yesterday and will definitely save it for next year. Enjoy!

Dear God,

As I carve my pumpkin help me say this prayer....

Open my mind so I can learn about you. (Cut the top of the pumpkin)

Take away all my sins and forgive me for the wrong things I do. (Clean out the inside)

Open my eyes so Your love I will see. (Cut the eyes out in the shape of a cross)

Open my ears so Your Word I will hear. (Cut the ears shaped like the Bible-rectangles)

Open my mouth so I can tell others You are near. (Cut the mouth)

Let Your light shine in all I say and do! (Place a candle inside and light it)

AMEN!

Charlie Brown!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (Part 1)

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (Part 2)

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (Part 3)

Working with Super Dad

Last weekend Jared took the kids to the church work day while I lazed around the house in my pajamas reading The Host. We all enjoyed our morning a lot. The kids love the apple trees in front of the church and apparently spent most of the morning there gorging themselves on apples, picking up rotten ones, raking leaves, and climbing the apple tree. I was afraid that Jared wouldn't be able to help much with the kids, but he said that he was still able to help some and as you can see, the kids did there best to pitch in too!

I sure am thankful for my wonderful husband. How many dads will take the kids on their own to a church work day and encourage thier wife to "just relax"! I needed it and it was so appreciated.

The kids are always in a frenzy when they see him in the evenings. They know that they're in for fun, excitement, and they'll probably learn something too. Ruby recently informed me that she doesn't learn much of anything from me (except maybe that she should pick up her toys!), but learns all kinds of neat things from Daddy. That makes me wonder a bit at my mothering, but makes me so thankful to have a husband who loves his family more than anything else.

Back to the great outdoors, the trees in our back yard still have most of their leaves, the raking session back there will likely come some time in November. I'm looking forward to it--I think that the kids will really have a blast playing in the leaves. I know I loved building up big piles of leaves and jumping in--often times from a low tree branch! Maybe I won't suggest that though. Having a kid in a cast is not on my wishlist.


I hope you are enjoying this beautiful season as much as we are and not suffering too much from these pesky cold viruses. Check back tomorrow for some Halloween fun.

Fabulous Fall Favorites

I started thinking about what I would put up for Tasty Tuesday this week and couldn't think of ANYTHING! I think that's one of the side effects of a cold--nothing really sounds good since you can't really taste anything anyway. After a minute, though, it hit me! I need to shared some of my favorite seasonal recipes, so this week we'll have a bit of a collection. Hopefully there will be something that floats your boat on the menu!

Updated Mulled Cider

1 large orange
3 whole cloves
2 3/4 cups fresh orange juice
8 cups apple juice
1/4 cup raisins
1 cinnamon stick

1. Peel the skin from the orange leaving the bitter white pith behind. Stick the cloves into the skin. Squeeze the juice from the orange and add to the 2-3/4 cups orange juice. Place all ingredients into a large nonreactive pan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Remove from heat, cover and allow to stand at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Serve warm or cold.

Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

1 1/2 tablespoons margarine, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic salt
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds

1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
2. Combine the margarine, salt, garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce and pumpkin seeds. Mix thoroughly and place in shallow baking dish.
3. Bake for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Butternut and Apple Harvest Soup

2 tablespoons butter
2 large leeks (white and pale green parts only), chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
2 cups cubed butternut squash
1 cup diced carrots
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick
1 quart chicken stock
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
1/2 cup light cream
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped chives

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in leeks and onions, and cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add potato, squash, carrots, apple, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the vegetables are soft, about 20 minutes.
2. Carefully puree the soup in batches in a blender, or use a stick blender to puree the soup right in the pot. Once the soup has been pureed, return it to the pot and stir in wine and cream. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper; simmer gently for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped chives.

Granny Kat's Pumpkin Roll

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 cup pumpkin puree
3 eggs
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup confectioners' sugar

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch jelly roll pan or cookie sheet.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir in pumpkin puree, eggs, and lemon juice. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Spread the mixture evenly.
3. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes.
4. Lay a damp linen towel on the counter, sprinkle it with confectioner's sugar, and turn the cake onto the towel. Carefully roll the towel up (lengthwise) with the cake in it. Place the cake-in-towel on a cooling rack and let it cool for 20 minutes.
5. Make the icing: In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and sugar with a wooden spoon or electric mixer.
6. When the cake has cooled 20 minutes, unroll it and spread icing onto it. Immediately re-roll (not in the towel this time), and wrap it with plastic wrap. Keep the cake refrigerated or freeze it for up to 2 weeks in aluminum foil. Cut the cake in slices just before serving.

Pumpkin Biscuits with Orange Honey Butter

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup chilled butter, cut into small pieces
3/4 cup fat-free buttermilk
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
Cooking spray
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon grated orange rind

1. Preheat oven to 450º.
2. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Combine flour and next 6 ingredients (flour through nutmeg); cut in chilled butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal.
3. Combine buttermilk and pumpkin; add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead lightly 5 times. Roll dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into 12 biscuits with a 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter.
4. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 450° for 11 minutes or until golden.
5. Prepare Orange-Honey Butter by combining butter, honey, and orange rind. Beat with a mixer at medium speed until well blended.
6. Serve biscuits warm with Orange-Honey Butter.

I could go on, but I think I better stop there! The first four recipes can be found on allrecipes.com and the last one on myrecipes.com. Hope you have a wonderful day!