tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42551842746713746132024-03-05T00:23:04.312-05:00Domestic Serenitydaniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comBlogger396125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-30458445088073786172011-01-13T12:18:00.001-05:002011-01-15T13:17:35.910-05:00a new home for this journal<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">for all who have come across these pages,</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ramblings of <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/about/">this servant's heart</a>,</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">you are invited to continue the journey</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">at our new home.</span></i></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>I'll look for you there.</b></span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-47244990121190173452011-01-10T22:31:00.000-05:002011-01-10T22:31:27.315-05:00ramblingsA few random thoughts today....<div><br />
</div><div>:: last week the whole family experienced some level of the first cold/flu of the season. We were to start back to school, but days filled with fevers simply led us to take all things slowly--back on track this week!</div><div><br />
</div><div>:: <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2011/01/moving-into-2011.html">my January goals</a> are also dragging though I've gathered up items to list for sale. </div><div><br />
</div><div>:: the blog is undergoing some changes this week, so if I'm not around much, no worries! If all goes well, the design and content will be tweaked a little--exciting!</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYVZINMdxLwtI3prFltfzJTyYnllrJfYxy5xJr_RExnfQlicoNhE64WVuodSM1OctPVAIgjAT-9fNr4gUU8Vwq1ygsvPFYaxkOu2NvMr0AMxO9xOLRfqjq_ZubFSDxvJpMXEhWHQiTrY/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYVZINMdxLwtI3prFltfzJTyYnllrJfYxy5xJr_RExnfQlicoNhE64WVuodSM1OctPVAIgjAT-9fNr4gUU8Vwq1ygsvPFYaxkOu2NvMr0AMxO9xOLRfqjq_ZubFSDxvJpMXEhWHQiTrY/s640/DSC_0033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOrHyKkpYwSj0nLqcHPRc3dWBwPFD7cVIsfazBLnDqZ5Kn0jukBheBQIq49Oc5mDVj82RZ0CpybOWMgoURscYUXUqTkLVhS2L1m0IqKJdz-ApFvaD78MLgPA180H9ZifEGufDR82LYUA/s1600/DSC_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOrHyKkpYwSj0nLqcHPRc3dWBwPFD7cVIsfazBLnDqZ5Kn0jukBheBQIq49Oc5mDVj82RZ0CpybOWMgoURscYUXUqTkLVhS2L1m0IqKJdz-ApFvaD78MLgPA180H9ZifEGufDR82LYUA/s640/DSC_0051.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">:: a few tea party napkins started last summer in need of finishing (a certain little girl would be most happy). They've found their way into my 'to create' pile.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whatever the week has brought you so far, I hope it's been good!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-74294086629182595682011-01-05T07:35:00.000-05:002011-01-05T07:35:55.756-05:00gratefulpausing today to give thanks....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">for a toddler's smile and sloppy kisses</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">our son's pursuit of reading and writing skills (very intent this child)</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">our third girl's desire to create (so like her Mama she is!)</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKkOTjpawIdxJYCRu-Kz-LSH4OIcbNNUeLaaUhZfWyHqnmvm5JjmZKeIX-RdNIASy8MdXFzN-ix9KWF5moriqSzmPZvPs_TVHHKP6F6ap7AZgiRdoGq4r4NucNT9nfPRbkEMF4UJUJ-8/s1600/1123793_29035032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKkOTjpawIdxJYCRu-Kz-LSH4OIcbNNUeLaaUhZfWyHqnmvm5JjmZKeIX-RdNIASy8MdXFzN-ix9KWF5moriqSzmPZvPs_TVHHKP6F6ap7AZgiRdoGq4r4NucNT9nfPRbkEMF4UJUJ-8/s640/1123793_29035032.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
for a twelve-year old's efforts in study<br />
<br />
watching the growth in our young adult daughter<br />
<br />
being graced with her little guy's focused, yet sweet, personality.<br />
<br />
<br />
In all this, Lord...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I feebly attempt to give you praise</span>. Though a woman of words, combining 26 letters to share my heart with you often fails to express my gratitude.<br />
<br />
So simply...<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">thank you.</span> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml">photo credit</a></span><br />
<br />
daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-38272608546830569022011-01-02T17:40:00.001-05:002011-01-03T13:37:36.118-05:00moving into 2011Happy New Year everyone!<br />
<br />
I'm not one for resolutions and such, but I am goal oriented and a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">lover of lists.</span> So, it's exciting to be participating in a new venture! <br />
<br />
Listing out THREE goals to meet every 30 days. Each month, choosing three attainable goals and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">getting them done</span>. <i>Yes</i>, I like that.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/i420ep" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i900.photobucket.com/albums/ac209/apichea/3in30.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's a community feel to the project as others join in to encourage. Overall, <a href="http://blog.ashleypichea.com/2010/12/announcing-3in30.html">a great idea</a>!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>So, here are my goals for the month of January</u> ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><blockquote>:: get back on track with <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2009/08/going-green.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">green smoothies</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> daily</span> <i>(holiday feasting caused this to fall by the wayside; that's okay, but time to regroup!)</i></blockquote><br />
<blockquote>:: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">use the time budget</span> I created with <a href="http://amylynnandrews.com/tell-your-time/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Tell Your Time</span></a> <i>(the goal is to be consistent, not perfect. we will have days where flexibility is required)</i></blockquote><br />
<blockquote>::<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> list my 'to sell' items</span> in the basement on craigslist <i>(if I do not sell them in January, then I will give them away)</i></blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><b><a href="http://blog.ashleypichea.com/2010/12/announcing-3in30.html">Consider joining in?</a></b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i> </i></div>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-78211418519066842062010-12-30T10:30:00.003-05:002010-12-30T10:35:16.603-05:00time in the Big Apple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Christmas break has included some serious down time for this Mama <i>{a much appreciated gift of time from my spouse!}</i>....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I journeyed upstate a bit to visit my sister in the big city of New York, taking in some rest and relaxation and the sites of bustling life in a metropolitan area. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8NuDFCoohwiR7xlsHFzmK9KyYcnbBVY3udvfk8bPA6ecr7A_QV8TJakZvMPsKJt-z5SWCy8iL_ytvpl6kqtLWboIP1VAnXGvDEh-wv7eXHQWG6gbxQySuteozTllbnyaIXGRqQqJm-A/s1600/2010-12-29+09.57.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8NuDFCoohwiR7xlsHFzmK9KyYcnbBVY3udvfk8bPA6ecr7A_QV8TJakZvMPsKJt-z5SWCy8iL_ytvpl6kqtLWboIP1VAnXGvDEh-wv7eXHQWG6gbxQySuteozTllbnyaIXGRqQqJm-A/s640/2010-12-29+09.57.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ cooped up for a morning in her apartment, I enjoyed the treats this gracious sibling of mine provided!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYKgeGhwepywOZXmK_Yvvs1S-23QOphj5p4Dg6b-E_dWRmXjEoPaRYxorKaokGXr0niRP01mebqPXz887dSWbDg2sBVciBa6xEIbWDXibBiDbHLfxzxAwHewK9kpG8gAYUmc9sYNgnAU/s1600/2010-12-29+09.58.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYKgeGhwepywOZXmK_Yvvs1S-23QOphj5p4Dg6b-E_dWRmXjEoPaRYxorKaokGXr0niRP01mebqPXz887dSWbDg2sBVciBa6xEIbWDXibBiDbHLfxzxAwHewK9kpG8gAYUmc9sYNgnAU/s640/2010-12-29+09.58.15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYKgeGhwepywOZXmK_Yvvs1S-23QOphj5p4Dg6b-E_dWRmXjEoPaRYxorKaokGXr0niRP01mebqPXz887dSWbDg2sBVciBa6xEIbWDXibBiDbHLfxzxAwHewK9kpG8gAYUmc9sYNgnAU/s1600/2010-12-29+09.58.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mGWHA-Vd6HAw27envpjzIq8_9TjSxIQBW8lKLNfUdOB4y87VF-zbkkid0KYIVM6q1vGxvmFQCifs4ultsGnzVZC4uNZVbxy_tgD4NnUde_jFftkjIEhE7xNbnY6uT8Qqu98AYsRa-R4/s1600/2010-12-29+09.57.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mGWHA-Vd6HAw27envpjzIq8_9TjSxIQBW8lKLNfUdOB4y87VF-zbkkid0KYIVM6q1vGxvmFQCifs4ultsGnzVZC4uNZVbxy_tgD4NnUde_jFftkjIEhE7xNbnY6uT8Qqu98AYsRa-R4/s640/2010-12-29+09.57.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ hot tea and good books, a great combination</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaMEeKDDXj9i_DcphcACzOU-l1rw7CSO0DY6uLuPfNA2NtWlPo0f3DBTht2Yhlmat9kYQ7GvCtvkhHDErSJ4HUaUunqVkvHgTXEF-kvJghvz1FrHIIBEEClaY_jJIRz1f0SdgPHNxXWw/s1600/2010-12-29+09.58.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaMEeKDDXj9i_DcphcACzOU-l1rw7CSO0DY6uLuPfNA2NtWlPo0f3DBTht2Yhlmat9kYQ7GvCtvkhHDErSJ4HUaUunqVkvHgTXEF-kvJghvz1FrHIIBEEClaY_jJIRz1f0SdgPHNxXWw/s640/2010-12-29+09.58.39.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ perusing through her many cookbooks!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxli4nqRUqFUzBaoeSraNk8CCQ1NCHOlUmyd_3D4feUHC5NgQd9q5My6GRo3dm9oWW6AYwlUfNyJkcOBtSE1HS6UxWE02zJIrhyqRGiLoc7kw9ZBc8LR7lzMz_HM72gri8_StTO641j0/s1600/2010-12-29+15.19.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxli4nqRUqFUzBaoeSraNk8CCQ1NCHOlUmyd_3D4feUHC5NgQd9q5My6GRo3dm9oWW6AYwlUfNyJkcOBtSE1HS6UxWE02zJIrhyqRGiLoc7kw9ZBc8LR7lzMz_HM72gri8_StTO641j0/s640/2010-12-29+15.19.32.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVsBCRjX7Y50jl60LURWO8XERHN_zF8mdXais4Tt2_L7okDBSHUd1xJZGBkI34AbIP6B5DJ6I2SJpKInVCrlEpYGDIEU0vFVfUbvb2RK-InLHCelT7FWLwK48b2b-0pr4Ud27FBaHowws/s1600/2010-12-29+15.36.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVsBCRjX7Y50jl60LURWO8XERHN_zF8mdXais4Tt2_L7okDBSHUd1xJZGBkI34AbIP6B5DJ6I2SJpKInVCrlEpYGDIEU0vFVfUbvb2RK-InLHCelT7FWLwK48b2b-0pr4Ud27FBaHowws/s640/2010-12-29+15.36.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
~ naturally there were many options of international food, Peruvian and Cuban were our cuisines of choice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ugd95S2nfBwzW5pmGDVSnuyL-RXDaVOkPweStNxSI5rxZ2sapzfgBFYRNZ7FSJsP9vcjItsnFyQ9Hi02te8MeThradw_NeroBGt8fK9xTTzHOHsKh5EPqu6XwHwAMbtcIKOCd82w76I/s1600/2010-12-29+17.31.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ugd95S2nfBwzW5pmGDVSnuyL-RXDaVOkPweStNxSI5rxZ2sapzfgBFYRNZ7FSJsP9vcjItsnFyQ9Hi02te8MeThradw_NeroBGt8fK9xTTzHOHsKh5EPqu6XwHwAMbtcIKOCd82w76I/s640/2010-12-29+17.31.54.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ibk4lNO3LBVKICgju2zu1Va_v_c25Zmr9OoFkgq48629iRLkk80pTcISpOwMWEZ3P1xCdvOpDa8arF6OeOTj81op2FjeDwFOUAU66Y5Tg8sqD3k56Y1p5lPEEWsWtO82g_VL1jSyzL8/s1600/2010-12-29+17.16.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ibk4lNO3LBVKICgju2zu1Va_v_c25Zmr9OoFkgq48629iRLkk80pTcISpOwMWEZ3P1xCdvOpDa8arF6OeOTj81op2FjeDwFOUAU66Y5Tg8sqD3k56Y1p5lPEEWsWtO82g_VL1jSyzL8/s640/2010-12-29+17.16.03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A relaxing set of days! </span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></i>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-88720878400299012542010-12-21T17:25:00.000-05:002010-12-21T17:25:13.349-05:00the beauty of Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2Qf_stCHiV9yS-t9KhwTuYh_dHnEc-Te6CL6c8SJ-I0WolPYfwvynjNwaX0iktbwC_WYUBjWNOveKRgOMQBWgtY69CMNpoWsXE9vYIWT8Slg2_fhwsCnpvEkgkDCwkSQE_2q4spaGA0/s1600/ornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2Qf_stCHiV9yS-t9KhwTuYh_dHnEc-Te6CL6c8SJ-I0WolPYfwvynjNwaX0iktbwC_WYUBjWNOveKRgOMQBWgtY69CMNpoWsXE9vYIWT8Slg2_fhwsCnpvEkgkDCwkSQE_2q4spaGA0/s640/ornament.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
There are some who are <span style="font-size: large;">cynical about this season</span>, <br />
<br />
pointing fingers and questioning the generosity of others :: wondering if it's temporary or if after the tinsel a giving spirit will continue.<br />
<br />
Yes, it's true. <span style="font-size: large;">Some may forget</span> and in the next 11 months choose to withhold funds, time, or focus from those in need.<br />
<br />
I am more encouraged however by those who have chosen to participate now and for whom this is a lifestyle. Stories of how families and individuals are <span style="font-size: large;">reaching out</span> have so blessed me in the last few weeks! <br />
<br />
Some are making commitments of finances, supporting with currency.<br />
<br />
Others I see volunteering and stretching their time budget further.<br />
<br />
Still others are carving out space in their hearts and homes for hospitality, renewed to give afresh in this way.<br />
<br />
All distrubuting kindness, hope, love and encouragement to another. <span style="font-size: large;">And I pause to praise.</span> Truly this is how our Lord intended it to be?<br />
<br />
In the rest of this week...<br />
<br />
...and in the weeks beyond, be encouraged. <em><strong>Watch for displays of giving, and rejoice!</strong></em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml">photo credit</a></span><em><strong></strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-9355285480283483412010-12-17T07:20:00.001-05:002010-12-17T07:20:00.453-05:00fun for the season :: homemade for teachersIf there's anyone who deserves some holiday cheer & appreciation, it's the many teachers, coaches, helpers, etc. who work with children throughout the year! Hats off to these amazing individuals who pour their hearts out and somehow wrangle an often large group into learning; whether it be math, language, dance, music or another pursuit.<br />
<br />
While we base our educational studies from home, our children are involved in various activities or classes during the week. We decided this year to make a brown sugar body scrub as gifts, seeing that most of these teachers are women! A quick & easy (and delicious smelling) project.<br />
<br />
The cast of characters:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMfJyKtEg-1WxO8OyzQbOWB7cEuwosy1neG_waYPkCNVyYzeywj2bUKPQBusNs-Lpkgcmjv2c2oJmfvc63ijCx3fC1qrCzjt3e8yD7GDapYK4aRb5b3XemyweV-g52d-65fmnLF2Fabg/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMfJyKtEg-1WxO8OyzQbOWB7cEuwosy1neG_waYPkCNVyYzeywj2bUKPQBusNs-Lpkgcmjv2c2oJmfvc63ijCx3fC1qrCzjt3e8yD7GDapYK4aRb5b3XemyweV-g52d-65fmnLF2Fabg/s640/DSC_0040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Brown Sugar Body Scrub</span></div><blockquote>1/4 cup brown sugar</blockquote><blockquote>1/4 cup fine sea salt</blockquote><blockquote>1/2 to 1 ounce oil (sunflower, almond are good choices)</blockquote><blockquote>1/2 TBsp kaolin or white china clay (we ordered ours from <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">Mountain Rose Herbs</a>)</span></blockquote><blockquote>1/2 TBsp honey</blockquote><blockquote>2 drops of essential oil (we used lavender)</blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and spoon into a jar. Oil will settle on top, just stir before use. To use, gently massage scrub in circular motions over body and then rinse with warm water. Do not use on the face. Makes 4 oz.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3o7CTdqGhl-0TPp7heQFCLCKfJXD-ir09UJM5uK-KjWKOdbrPRMxDdqCtGBTUDlKErHCdXHyyP3PUj8uOdDE_SdGa1M4A9UIHErShe5L_mo7jNEySY4gMvIY7x5Y7DIcQDZ8fpeGlls/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3o7CTdqGhl-0TPp7heQFCLCKfJXD-ir09UJM5uK-KjWKOdbrPRMxDdqCtGBTUDlKErHCdXHyyP3PUj8uOdDE_SdGa1M4A9UIHErShe5L_mo7jNEySY4gMvIY7x5Y7DIcQDZ8fpeGlls/s640/DSC_0048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6xTnbrPAxOcd1g8odhoezF2F_PqIZ_a7P0GHTU3eCV7I8J5eWoaorOt3g4m1kP-Nebg7f74Ho2kfUecxOz0ua5qoXdeb_xp7cj_1HwRGmJwIRrmO9PKl5vgB7BZhFXDbV-ksNv2RSf0/s1600/DSC_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6xTnbrPAxOcd1g8odhoezF2F_PqIZ_a7P0GHTU3eCV7I8J5eWoaorOt3g4m1kP-Nebg7f74Ho2kfUecxOz0ua5qoXdeb_xp7cj_1HwRGmJwIRrmO9PKl5vgB7BZhFXDbV-ksNv2RSf0/s640/DSC_0050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our containers were bought off eBay several years ago :: just plastic 4 oz containers. <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/"> Mountain Rose</a> carries a variety of jars and such as well as crafters on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> (which, if you haven't been here...grab a cup of coffee or tea and visit a while)!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A simple label with a Christmas sticker and instructions from the recipe above completed our gifts. We then used tissue paper, some sprinkles of shredded paper and a bit of gold cord to wrap up these treats!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkyBOcO8QoEkGpRBNYvwFnCCqyxicbzlmTjyKThEDOvaaR3TqpwMbIGCDG0H6L6QfbVjbjmj6KJQFtsWu7_hgnk5_isYH-KQQ6NVp5-PiCJKOE62VfFsgi1MlqTurfjxABQhb6Ts5EWo/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkyBOcO8QoEkGpRBNYvwFnCCqyxicbzlmTjyKThEDOvaaR3TqpwMbIGCDG0H6L6QfbVjbjmj6KJQFtsWu7_hgnk5_isYH-KQQ6NVp5-PiCJKOE62VfFsgi1MlqTurfjxABQhb6Ts5EWo/s640/DSC_0053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFfjiNIYXP5WE-PMgWapkUi3RC4Tv8KgCNvH2gHaygB0yo4ctL0t059iZi6fbVZsO4fvC2dAbfZH_gjmH85BjWoaeB7VjdSwTjSFtTdQ-mG3P0ZDPdq10U4ApkBrxIDDsX7y-3-0PWO0/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFfjiNIYXP5WE-PMgWapkUi3RC4Tv8KgCNvH2gHaygB0yo4ctL0t059iZi6fbVZsO4fvC2dAbfZH_gjmH85BjWoaeB7VjdSwTjSFtTdQ-mG3P0ZDPdq10U4ApkBrxIDDsX7y-3-0PWO0/s640/DSC_0054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Simple, quick and not too difficult for even the youngest of gift givers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-64656906754572731092010-12-15T07:32:00.020-05:002010-12-17T09:53:36.768-05:00easy peasy pie crust 'cookies'True confessions are in order today. Deep breath...<em>inhale</em>...<em>exhale</em>...okay, here we go:<br />
<br />
<strong>I really do not enjoy baking cookies.</strong><br />
<br />
Yes, yes, I find the art of cooking in general to be a solace; and muffins, breads and the like are at the top of my baking list. But cookies? Not so much. <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2009/05/how-to-spend-quiet-evening.html">Only if I'm truly inspired</a>.<br />
<br />
With the holidays of course comes the expectation that whipping up these delectable treats takes priority on the to-do list. There are plans next week for <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2009/12/gifts-of-season.html">gingerbread cookies</a> as this endevour succeeded last year. <br />
<br />
But until then, I've discovered an idea to keep my children happy (taming the <em>Mom, when are we going to bake cookies!?</em> question) and to keep me sane and happy as well. Which is on the top of the priority list around here. Want to know my secret?<br />
<br />
<strong>Pie Crust.</strong><br />
<br />
To be more precise :: make 'cookies' out of pie crust.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJve_QuQl0vw05TmppZdyLk4mAX3ek0OeYeprMhfLNy1ndeq5m2ys_vR6z_aU5jEhbQLuZyZUE_LEcpjkW5-xEjItFfjJp9Rbb0iD3ALwx8I-mLKvsOQXrLRovNv1_1ywhPT5Ft0ZOXk/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJve_QuQl0vw05TmppZdyLk4mAX3ek0OeYeprMhfLNy1ndeq5m2ys_vR6z_aU5jEhbQLuZyZUE_LEcpjkW5-xEjItFfjJp9Rbb0iD3ALwx8I-mLKvsOQXrLRovNv1_1ywhPT5Ft0ZOXk/s640/005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEDFA5LpJG4xCWZbNTg8PmCP1UfcC1cBsnsRtNduP87yn-a8t-Iily_1xXvAk4WtwH_ZauqRss0v7JymEwsKAaHA7aYSRoF7Ljv0ceebFKJf2woGaFRWPCjGbe72FdCNUOL4dP8p3puI/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEDFA5LpJG4xCWZbNTg8PmCP1UfcC1cBsnsRtNduP87yn-a8t-Iily_1xXvAk4WtwH_ZauqRss0v7JymEwsKAaHA7aYSRoF7Ljv0ceebFKJf2woGaFRWPCjGbe72FdCNUOL4dP8p3puI/s640/007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">And I'm not even talking about homemade. Just the plain old two-per-package, rolled-up, <strong>store-bought pie crust.</strong> I bring them to room temperature, let the kiddos unroll and break out the cookie cutters. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I can almost hear the <em>Hallelujah</em> chorus being sung. Seriously. This idea is such a winner around here!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Easy Peasy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV1T1DKHq1FK7KVpiPWSOlSmdfzKfrDrZ9lZzlKDce7RO3L3f9Kz4Zie8eL98YeJp3V0Q5URYkUVfJwJ6ZZov8lRyuGj0iCSyI-b1n6ikIwl6bwZRRT6UUp_iGcN5Nk29mzmIYm3QyIc/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV1T1DKHq1FK7KVpiPWSOlSmdfzKfrDrZ9lZzlKDce7RO3L3f9Kz4Zie8eL98YeJp3V0Q5URYkUVfJwJ6ZZov8lRyuGj0iCSyI-b1n6ikIwl6bwZRRT6UUp_iGcN5Nk29mzmIYm3QyIc/s640/012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGD-5k0u9b4quNDwGPECcMSOJWLDverig5Zbv1Ll8BBSQ26W1mUCFJmqqbrFqRyKSLs7LAitYchP0qIfZiMdV1SYrIqTJv-bBMyjMJCu9j1aTIq6wkqpzb1ZpSr6KsvuYtxnUoc6lxwA0/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGD-5k0u9b4quNDwGPECcMSOJWLDverig5Zbv1Ll8BBSQ26W1mUCFJmqqbrFqRyKSLs7LAitYchP0qIfZiMdV1SYrIqTJv-bBMyjMJCu9j1aTIq6wkqpzb1ZpSr6KsvuYtxnUoc6lxwA0/s640/017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>After cutting out shapes, brush the 'cookies' with some melted butter.....</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em></em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQemF8rCpV1NPp12UgYd4nE8fLCdnvCW_sOWZRoCA4icygFW5KovVuiiA6G1WfTCxgZVf11NeI1CGPs3y-LZ1WVRUryARVHpadiR9C7QAFSMBu-mFIMDzT402OvbepU2aT2ONTElt_Tgs/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQemF8rCpV1NPp12UgYd4nE8fLCdnvCW_sOWZRoCA4icygFW5KovVuiiA6G1WfTCxgZVf11NeI1CGPs3y-LZ1WVRUryARVHpadiR9C7QAFSMBu-mFIMDzT402OvbepU2aT2ONTElt_Tgs/s640/023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Sprinkle on some cinnamon sugar or plain sugar. We used </em><a href="http://www.essentialcane.com/flavored_sugar"><span id="goog_1854002259"></span><em>vanilla bean cane sugar</em></a><em> (a delicious gift from upstate, thanks Grandad!)......</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcNCW1dBzh5IW-fSDcM4icY0hsgG_97iK9ISTdr5xTJyyJNV-UZ6LDPbupj6mYG14-k45J4WjRhIBnlECqXVz-38fts8DrX1B0UY0SMXyc-mrtYayUclesvnnlUubsHdCoF5odhaVVCg/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcNCW1dBzh5IW-fSDcM4icY0hsgG_97iK9ISTdr5xTJyyJNV-UZ6LDPbupj6mYG14-k45J4WjRhIBnlECqXVz-38fts8DrX1B0UY0SMXyc-mrtYayUclesvnnlUubsHdCoF5odhaVVCg/s640/031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div align="left"><br />
<em>Bake at 425 degrees for 12-14 minutes and...</em><br />
<br />
<em>...voila! </em><strong>Cookies!</strong> (sort of).<br />
<br />
We eat these with ice cream or sherbert, but think of the possibilities!<br />
<ul><li>top a pie crust cookie with fruit salad and drizzle with maple syrup</li>
<li>drizzle with melted white, dark or milk chocolate</li>
<li>add warm pie filling on top and add whipped cream</li>
</ul><br />
Yum! Best of all, my children are satisfied until our <em>real</em> cookie baking session! Yes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-33807739638051508592010-12-13T07:34:00.000-05:002010-12-13T09:29:08.872-05:00fun for the season :: popcorn & cranberry garland<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrqOg6i5I/AAAAAAAACCo/bjQi4pYX-po/s1600-h/DSC_00195.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0019" border="0" alt="DSC_0019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrqj06BAI/AAAAAAAACCs/qZ3_rhN3C6U/DSC_0019_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjRS7aFakzzz_zDbIXrt1DFq0VzrdetWqA9VrPzVo5TOZGvmHHvZI8MW4pOXJpJ5jfSogQ4da7ACAdl-I9nRNunSbHEfGazjXeJr7sXCemUY9ch2U-JLkYsAtOujbvm6Yk1qIUybjmLs/s1600-h/DSC_00135.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0013" border="0" alt="DSC_0013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrrps7b8I/AAAAAAAACC0/0vKX-Q7uNJA/DSC_0013_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrsD3zBJI/AAAAAAAACC4/802UQoGBtQ4/s1600-h/DSC_00155.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0015" border="0" alt="DSC_0015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrsr_OCwI/AAAAAAAACC8/gu30UGbD90s/DSC_0015_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>As usual, there’s a need for me to <font size="3">prioritize the many ideas</font> I had for crafts & projects this Christmas!  Naturally, the ratio of little ones to Mama definitely determines what those projects will be.  <em>Ahem</em>.  Additionally this year, <a href="http://www.winterpromise.com/children_world.html">our geography curriculum</a> calls for many <font size="3">cultural celebrations</font> of the Christmas season.</p> <p><font size="3">So…</font></p> <p>We have lots of plans, but they are not too complicated (at least I hope not)!</p> <p><font size="3">Cranberry and popcorn garlands</font> were simple enough.  I heard that <font size="3">day-old popcorn</font> works better than freshly popped (which we used) as it’s a little stiffer.  We also chose <font size="3">dental floss</font> as a stronger & easier to work with alternative to thread.  For younger children, <font size="3">a tapestry needle</font> is bigger and more blunt…and hopefully lessens the chance of pricking fingers!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrtADGBeI/AAAAAAAACDA/w8BDYv9Xrco/s1600-h/DSC_00115.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0011" border="0" alt="DSC_0011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYrtr3ri8I/AAAAAAAACDE/uCu6pURgtNQ/DSC_0011_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMtceWl9AxMit2prbnNlC0IT8uCmqt4Mhb_FuAsUUQAMTm5hcf2DK_bI-1doU2JdZJdbjboNvJIcZMraqkhMbm96YF2PJw8gWbVvC7-sEcQ3Nd2LaBDcqLHrsG9QxfBIfW65lQvC4pa8/s1600-h/DSC_00205.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0020" border="0" alt="DSC_0020" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQYruoo_D-I/AAAAAAAACDM/SVGKcjoIjRM/DSC_0020_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">An easy project and treat for the birds!</font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-63750350010059036402010-12-10T09:27:00.001-05:002011-01-03T13:37:15.005-05:00watch for the light today<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQI46DCB1SI/AAAAAAAACB4/xx8l4l9CTj0/s1600-h/lightinsnow%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="lightinsnow" border="0" alt="lightinsnow" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TQI47LD-U3I/AAAAAAAACB8/BFAQ8tnODvU/lightinsnow_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a> </p> <p align="right"><font size="3">“What we are in fact celebrating is <font color="#004080">the awe-inspiring <font size="4">humility of God</font></font>, </font></p> <p align="right"><font size="3">and <font size="4">no amount of familiarity</font> with the trappings of Christmas should ever blind us </font></p> <p align="right"><font size="3">to it’s quiet but <font size="4">explosive</font> significance…”</font></p> <p align="right"><font size="1"><em>excerpt from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Watch-Light-Readings-Advent-Christmas/dp/1570755418">Watch for the Light :: Readings for Advent and Christmas</a></em></font></p> <p align="right"><em><font size="1"></font></em>     </p> <p><font size="1"></font></p> <p><font size="3">Today, choose beyond the glitter of the temporary</font></p> <p><font color="#1174ae" size="3"><font color="#004080">to view the eternal</font>.</font></p> <p><font size="3"><font size="4">Emmanuel, God with us,</font> </font></p> <p><font size="3">has COME.</font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p><font size="3">   </font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p><font size="1"><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml">photo credit</a></font></p> <p><font size="1">   </font></p> <p><font size="1">   </font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-79520987081399141892010-12-07T08:52:00.000-05:002011-01-03T13:37:55.359-05:00give the gift of change<span style="font-size: large;">In this season there are many appeals for giving….</span><br />
<br />
to various organizations and ministries, both local and abroad. Not wanting to overload that message, but also wanting to pause and encourage, today I offer two organizations our family participates in at this time of year. Places where we can make a difference in the daily lifestyles of others.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="505" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lMLPj01rt_E?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lMLPj01rt_E?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="505"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?section=10389">World Vision Gift Catalog </a>:: from clean water to medical care, assistance for educational needs to goats, chickens and cows, World Vision's commitment is to provide for those in need. Gifts to children in the USA or abroad, to families, individuals or communities...there are many options for any budget!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.gfa.org/gift/">Gospel for Asia's Gift Catalog</a> :: join with other families or church community to send a camel or water buffalo (or rabbits, lambs, etc) to a location where it would be fitting and quite helpful to own such an animal. There are also options for sponsorship of missionaries or of individual children.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">*****</div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether locally or internationally...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">...through your congregation or as a family</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">...consider giving <strong>a gift of change</strong> for another.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-33763438035101736042010-12-01T09:46:00.001-05:002010-12-01T09:46:49.259-05:00remembering Thanksgiving<p>The day and weekend flew by so quickly and now the season of Advent & Christmas celebrations are upon us.</p> <p><font size="3">But, I want to pause this all for a moment and remember….</font></p> <p>and be grateful once again for the gathering of family (both sides visited our home last week!), for the grace of our Lord and for the freedom to mark such a day.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfoNz10mI/AAAAAAAACAw/sJFAIxypvx8/s1600-h/DSC_0054%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0054" border="0" alt="DSC_0054" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfoh67ElI/AAAAAAAACA0/8t3UrEUwgos/DSC_0054_thumb%5B9%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="447" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfpTMYWOI/AAAAAAAACA4/SdvgDW4zuYw/s1600-h/DSC_0053%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0053" border="0" alt="DSC_0053" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfp3NP7CI/AAAAAAAACA8/SmzW2iYcquU/DSC_0053_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfq-iXeiI/AAAAAAAACBA/Ri9v9yYPEVw/s1600-h/DSC_0071%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0071" border="0" alt="DSC_0071" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfrq0jYrI/AAAAAAAACBE/DMkDJpaju_Y/DSC_0071_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfsIWop7I/AAAAAAAACBI/z204dTsoXrA/s1600-h/DSC_0081%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0081" border="0" alt="DSC_0081" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfsij4j8I/AAAAAAAACBM/L2COjPRiuxY/DSC_0081_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfxVREhOI/AAAAAAAACBQ/J_05_IiS6Zg/s1600-h/DSC_0111%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0111" border="0" alt="DSC_0111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYk4jmc921c1X341k_ix1mv26JCdPB-UP8ppgMgi9H7Jp552s1nCoZmwKdbkrOePn-Pc2NM2-YFylqlvJmCjFZUZmLDboihFslVYRK4miSclJHUcK2DRdKt5XoKXvqGuJ-xJt7jgLPtnA/?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfyzKkRFI/AAAAAAAACBY/8WDfq7afbXc/s1600-h/DSC_0089%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0089" border="0" alt="DSC_0089" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZfzsS57DI/AAAAAAAACBc/kALNMlxlvac/DSC_0089_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZf0DPN-0I/AAAAAAAACBg/t1ab8i2lnlA/s1600-h/DSC_0106%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0106" border="0" alt="DSC_0106" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZf0t2g1CI/AAAAAAAACBk/oEapBrbztow/DSC_0106_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZf1EkKJLI/AAAAAAAACBo/L6azjhwiUJM/s1600-h/DSC_0108%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0108" border="0" alt="DSC_0108" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPZf2PkUFtI/AAAAAAAACBs/p5hbuk1bq-4/DSC_0108_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><font size="3"><em>A full heart sings with gratitude!</em></font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-23463585978658108102010-11-29T13:57:00.001-05:002010-11-29T13:57:46.245-05:00the bargain shopper in me…<p>…is enjoying the buzz today for <font size="3">Cyber Monday</font>!  Except that Amazon was running a bit slow earlier this morning (or maybe this was just our computer?).  </p> <p>I think it’s safe to say I like a bargain.  Shopping for our essentials, and for some wants as well, while paying rock-bottom prices is just plain old FUN!  And <font size="3">keeping the extra dollars</font> in our pocket makes me smile too.  </p> <p>Nothing new, this bent towards frugality has been a part of me for as long as I can remember.  Scanning the paper for coupons, checking out grocery fliers & such was <em>not</em> a task my mother enjoyed, and so I simply accompanied her to the store with my envelope of ‘deals’ and we often shopped together this way.  </p> <p><font size="3">As now manager in my own home</font> with many more responsibilities than groceries, the process still finds its way into my days.  I like the feeling of ‘beating the system’ (or maybe I’m simply competitive this way!).</p> <p>Seasons come & go and depending on where we are in life, this hunt for a good bargain is often present or sometimes takes a back seat as it <em>does</em> take time.  And time is very precious to me, so it’s a balancing act.  In ‘honor’ of Cyber Monday and the pursuit of a good deal, I’ll share <font size="3">a few of my favorites</font> ~</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPP3poiXCyI/AAAAAAAACAo/b1TctPMil2c/s1600-h/sale%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="sale" border="0" alt="sale" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TPP3qBtMsWI/AAAAAAAACAs/6iqEYplvtbc/sale_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="426" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/Retail_and_Sales_g195-Sale_Cube__p20025.html"><font size="1">photo by renjith krishnan</font></a></p> <p>:: are you using <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/domesticserenity">Swagbucks</a> yet?  I discovered these virtual dollars earlier this year, and they are great!  The primary way of earning is online searching, but there are options for taking surveys, sharing referrals, etc.  I’ve only used the search feature (I type everything into the <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/domesticserenity">swagbucks</a> toolbar, even if I know the website address already) and have so far earned $50 in Amazon gift certificates!  Which I promptly use on…</p> <p>:: ….buying diapers on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/mom/signup/info">Amazon Mom’s</a> new feature.  On this site, there are many deals for the family and FREE 2-day shipping is included for a limited time.  My diaper deals go like this ~</p> <ul> <ul> <li>sign up for Amazon Mom & save 15%</li> <li>save an additional 15% by using the Subscribe & Save feature (the item ordered is delivered on a regular basis, say every 2 months; unsubscribe as soon as the item is shipped with no penalty)</li> <li>often I have another coupon code for <em>another</em> 15% or even 20% off.  </li> <li>then I pay the balance using as many <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/domesticserenity">Swagbuck</a> dollars as possible!</li> </ul> </ul> <p>:: right now I’m in a season of coupon clipping and so I receive updates from two sites that offer online coupons to print for local stores and also many other deals ~ <a href="http://savingnaturally.com/">Saving Naturally</a> for organic or health foods & products, and then <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom</a>.  Both sites are run by godly Christian women who I had the privilege of meeting and talking with <a href="http://therelevantconference.com/">last month</a>.  I highly recommend them!</p> <p>:: I’ve also recently discovered Walmart’s ALL YOU magazine which offers tons of coupons (at least $70 worth in each issue) on groceries, toiletries, etc.  I only take time to scan for the coupons, but the articles seem helpful as well.  Check it out at Walmart & if you like it, here’s a <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/40-issues-of-all-you-magazine-for-1-per-issue">super deal on a subscription</a>.  Using coupons & local drugstore offers, I usually buy our toiletries for next to nothing or receive them for free.</p> <p>:: check out <a href="http://www.restaurant.com/consumer-promotion/lp_7.asp?prti=4252&raid=1150&s_kwcid=TC|7304|restaurant%20com%2080%20off||S||5962290047">restaurant.com</a> for dining out deals in your area.  Right now, they are offering up to 80% off certain gift certificates.  A few weeks ago, I bought a $25 certificate for $2.00 and enjoyed a night out sampling Indian food with friends…fun!</p> <p>~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</p> <p>I should mention that all of this evolved <em>slowly </em>and <font size="3">it’s a process I enjoy</font>.  It does take time (though I’ve figured out ways to cut down on that!), and it should be worth it in your book.  If I wasn’t clothing & feeding young children still or if for another reason this just didn’t fit life now, then it wouldn’t be a priority.</p> <p><font size="3">All that said, it IS a lot of fun!</font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-41822006351296140412010-11-25T10:11:00.002-05:002011-01-03T13:38:15.072-05:00thankful for Advent<em><strong>A BLESSED THANKSGIVING to all who celebrate today...</strong></em><br />
<em><strong>this day of remembrance naturally lends to the upcoming celebration of Advent, </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>when we give THANKS for the coming of our Messiah, Jesus.</strong></em><br />
<br />
<br />
The season of Advent is a joyous occassion for the family! Advent is a <strong><span style="font-size: large;">time of anticipation</span></strong>, of longing and of waiting for the birth of the Messiah, Christ who came to earth for us. Celebrated the weeks leading up to Christmas Day, Advent this year officially begins on <strong>Sunday, November 28th</strong>.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">An Advent calendar</span></strong> is a special way to mark this passing of time and can be a practical tool to teach little ones (and big ones!) about the Christmas story and the true 'reason for the season'. This calendar usually counts down the 24 days before December 25th, but can be adjusted by a day to begin December 1st if wanted.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UTlzpIY72TYf6EQFkd-R8cALEvIUY0APA7-RASi6E9GgfNP4u4wHV8SIhTi-tztkaW2SaQ57LWwXcjhDaorQpf5F78w57oYTv96JPxXRa0b2pRWojFuy7JiwilFQI5xCm3_DwsNPCPQ/s1600/adventcalendar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UTlzpIY72TYf6EQFkd-R8cALEvIUY0APA7-RASi6E9GgfNP4u4wHV8SIhTi-tztkaW2SaQ57LWwXcjhDaorQpf5F78w57oYTv96JPxXRa0b2pRWojFuy7JiwilFQI5xCm3_DwsNPCPQ/s640/adventcalendar1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Last year I chose <strong><span style="font-size: large;">a simple method</span></strong> to celebrate our family traditions, and to prioritize the many ideas of how to influence our children with the meaning of Christmas ~ a calendar of envelopes! Each morning from December 1st, at our devotional time we opened one envelope that first focused on <strong><span style="font-size: large;">giving or sharing</span></strong>, and then sometimes on an activity or craft to be completed that day. I opted for mostly quick & easy ideas and other days had more time or effort required. Practical and fun, this idea is easy to duplicate.....<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>For complete </em><a href="http://frugalgranola.com/2010/11/simple-advent-envelope-calendar/"><em>instructions & ideas</em></a><em>, hop on over to Frugal Granola....</em><a href="http://frugalgranola.com/about/"><em>Michele</em></a><em> has graciously allowed me to share in her Simple Living series. </em><a href="http://frugalgranola.com/2010/11/simple-advent-envelope-calendar/"><em>Join me?</em></a><em> </em><br />
<br />
<em> </em><br />
<em> </em><br />
<em> </em>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-23347033688546293542010-11-23T09:02:00.001-05:002010-11-23T09:02:37.885-05:00to lighten your day<p>Full of holiday preparing or rushing?</p> <p>Need a smile for the day, before taking off full speed?</p> <p>Look no further than a few pics from our laundry room; where my husband thought that a little boy would enjoy hanging out.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMX8UGx3Av_K3LKrMeyWr3Ybce0V4ve_wko9Yu8nCpJCX8S5HeYb9cXu7dHXUbgwZbXb41AY0-NgewPTFeP1Fd-0emwSjnKOAUHdluq6obNE4X79mAmMNB5A_IjFunvN8-iqUgzyRUlwc/s1600-h/DSC_0064%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0064" border="0" alt="DSC_0064" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqqG1Hu9LdNCQ7I6VB5EWk0oy-oPtSnyHN8VszmTZV2K9YAtbpnuJmAZ5FETmbG6ahKwJzaHFxJbn0iNH9UbsllEBNmXTUX4K-nea_1gsU1mpVQC9WSxAFH6LjaCzaEsJN60rt48DlUA/?imgmax=800" width="660" height="448" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZuw7gcQCb441gDPeup4UpcPjcf0vbcz1rYqYYNtHNGRVK7t9TFKKbD77xh8inMrK6Gx9aGOBzjZ9isObe-j6TgD92TJX4WdvDtxtWbOhmyujlMfiOO3o4EC8hQk6i4bbt-KC6tc20uU/s1600-h/DSC_0054%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0054" border="0" alt="DSC_0054" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOvJeSPDveI/AAAAAAAACAY/p-WG1Y8eBao/DSC_0054_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="448" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOvJe8ULyZI/AAAAAAAACAc/fz7Xp8jlkYk/s1600-h/DSC_0067%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0067" border="0" alt="DSC_0067" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOvJfKIKtwI/AAAAAAAACAg/Mtuf3l0npkc/DSC_0067_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="500" /></a></p> <p> Rest assured that he was never in any danger of falling out.</p> <p>At least I don’t think so.  I learned of the event while downloading pictures from the camera.</p> <p><font size="3">So, are you smiling yet?  </font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-68591317814124784132010-11-18T10:11:00.001-05:002010-11-18T10:11:37.651-05:00cultural celebrations :: a visitor from Germany<p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/08/school-days-again.html">Our geography curriculum</a> continues to be such an adventure as we make our way through Europe!  Famous people and places, interesting facts & information, excellent literature to read….I am pleased with this choice.  Winter Promise’s <a href="http://www.winterpromise.com/children_world.html">Children Around the World</a> delivers big time.  While the curriculum provides for a weekly celebration of each country studied, we choose the ones of interest and which fit our schedule.</p> <p>So when our study of Germany perfectly coincided with a long-awaited visit from my uncle, who has lived in this country over 20 years, the children and I were ecstatic!  We practiced <em>Guten Tags, </em>thought through a few question to ask, and thoroughly enjoyed our time.  I wasn’t about to attempt serving German food to a live person from the country, so simple conversation & <em>American</em> fare was the agenda for the evening!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCHrHqHZI/AAAAAAAAB_w/N7SjgGs5szM/s1600-h/DSC_0029%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0029" border="0" alt="DSC_0029" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCIX7CH5I/AAAAAAAAB_0/u_jSt71OQnE/DSC_0029_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="427" /></a></p> <p>Too busy wrapped up in conversation to tackle pictures of any food….  </p> <p>Several days later however, we did whip up a quick recipe for <em>Blitzkuchen</em>, a German spice cake.  SO simple, very light in comparison to American coffee cakes and now declared to be our favorite ‘tea cake’.  Yes, of course I’ll leave the recipe!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCI5D8drI/AAAAAAAAB_4/QTlT_5oSGtM/s1600-h/DSC_0036%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0036" border="0" alt="DSC_0036" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCJcFugTI/AAAAAAAAB_8/uo6vVryxjkc/DSC_0036_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">German Blitzkuchen</font> </p> <blockquote> <p>1/2 stick butter</p> <p>1 egg</p> <p>2/3 cup milk</p> <p>1-1/2 cups flour</p> <p>1/2 cup sugar</p> <p>2 tsp. baking powder</p> <p>1/4 teaspoon ground cloves</p> <p>1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</p> <p>1/4 tsp. nutmeg</p> <p>pinch of salt</p> </blockquote> <p>In a bowl, beat the butter, egg and milk together.  Sift all the other ingredients together into the bowl and beat until smooth.  Pour into an 8” square greased pan.  On the top, drop bits of butter and sprinkle with a little more sugar and cinnamon.  Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCJ6jNCBI/AAAAAAAACAA/5VpOE-4mZDc/s1600-h/DSC_0042%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSC_0042" border="0" alt="DSC_0042" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TOVCKMuvbKI/AAAAAAAACAE/4cntYUIzGCU/DSC_0042_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><em>And then, what’s a study on Germany without some sausage and </em><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/09/autumn-baking.html"><em>pretzels</em></a>, right<em>!?</em></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-25055316021081679082010-11-16T08:01:00.003-05:002010-11-16T08:04:05.298-05:00thanksgiving book bag for the family<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" height="200" id="Player_ad4fb0b4-b4c6-494e-87a1-c6c80cbc6ace" width="600"> <param NAME="movie" VALUE="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fwestgacade-20%2F8010%2Fad4fb0b4-b4c6-494e-87a1-c6c80cbc6ace&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate"><param NAME="quality" VALUE="high"><param NAME="bgcolor" VALUE="#FFFFFF"><param NAME="allowscriptaccess" VALUE="always"><embed src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fwestgacade-20%2F8010%2Fad4fb0b4-b4c6-494e-87a1-c6c80cbc6ace&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate" id="Player_ad4fb0b4-b4c6-494e-87a1-c6c80cbc6ace" quality="high" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="Player_ad4fb0b4-b4c6-494e-87a1-c6c80cbc6ace" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" align="middle" height="200px" width="600px"></embed></OBJECT> <noscript></noscript></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>For the little ones in your home or life ~</strong></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Give-Thanks-Lord-Celebrating-Psalm/dp/0310711185/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259033282&sr=1-1">Give Thanks to the Lord</a> :: told from the viewpoint of a young member of the family celebrating joys of all kinds<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thank-Thanksgiving-Dandi-Daley-Mackall/dp/0758615000/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259033402&sr=1-1">Thank You for Thanksgiving</a> :: the fun rhyming text is great, also a wonderful way to tie together the holiday with the approach of Advent as the book emphasizes being grateful for the gift of Christ.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thanksgiving-Bowl-Virginia-L-Kroll/dp/1589803655/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259033539&sr=1-1">The Thanksgiving Bowl</a> :: fun for preschoolers as well ~ travel throughout the year with this ‘lost’ bowl of grandma’s and see where it lands in the end!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marys-First-Thanksgiving-Inspirational-Gratefulness/dp/0310711797/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259033730&sr=8-1">Mary’s First Thanksgiving</a> :: an inspirational story of gratefulness from a young Pilgrim girl’s talks with her father.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">For the family or older children ~</span></strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Old-Fashioned-Thanksgiving-Louisa-May-Alcott/dp/0060004509/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259033452&sr=1-1">An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving</a> :: the March sisters live on! Great family read-aloud or for older children.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1589975006?ie=UTF8&tag=storylovers-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1589975006">The Legend of Squanto</a> :: a Focus on the Family radio theatre CD that is excellent! A story of triumph over tragedy that offers more of the Thanksgiving story. We’re on our third year of listening to this audio!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Three-Young-Pilgrims-Cheryl-Harness/dp/0689802080/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1289912153&sr=8-1">Three Young Pilgrims</a> :: just fine for younger children as well, this book details with lots of illustrations & beautiful map work the journey of Pilgrim children<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thanksgiving-Time-Remember-Family-Books/dp/1581345380/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1289912200&sr=1-1">Thanksgiving, A Time to Remember</a> :: a family keepsake and wonderful gift idea! Historical, detailing the quest of the Pilgrims and other facts. Pages in the back to record your family’s gratefulness through the years and a CD of instrumental music make this book one to own, excellent!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-8937503077980456902010-11-11T16:35:00.001-05:002010-11-11T16:36:04.591-05:00reality check and over-the-top birthday fun<p> First, the not-so-good news ::</p> <p><font size="3">Thanksgiving is in two weeks</font>, I’m hosting extended family, and there is little to no planning done for this event (except that I have managed to earn <em>two</em> free turkeys at local grocery stores).  Serving them frozen would not be a good idea, you think?  The fact that my family plans to visit is causing the children’s excitement to rapidly rise to record levels.  whew.</p> <p>But their Mama needs a serious reality check and will be breaking out some plans this weekend!  <em><font size="3">I think I can, I think I can…</font></em></p> <p>On to better news!  Yesterday, we celebrated my birthday :: so refreshing with the request for <em>“just a little quiet”</em> honored in grand ways.  My family gifted me with an outing for the afternoon to be pampered, then to shop alone, and <em>then</em> dinner with simply my husband and I.  Truly over-the-top and leaving me feeling grateful and quite full; the children were so thrilled for me <em>(or maybe they were just happy for a day off school? :) </em>and participated fully in this surprise of a gift.  Saying thank you doesn’t seem enough…</p> <p>And on my return, cards and gifts were opened and the day closed.  </p> <p><font size="3">I am blessed; not only yesterday…<em>everyday</em>.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhfluY9jI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/Kj1z5RyK0xw/s1600-h/DSC_0081%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0081" border="0" alt="DSC_0081" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhgS67wfI/AAAAAAAAB_U/l0y_cIyMPqY/DSC_0081_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="428" /></a></p> <p>:: an older couple in our church blesses me with these hand-delivered, homemade oatmeal lace cookies (dipped into chocolate) every year; I am slightly embarrassed to admit that because I’m a wee reluctant to share these treats, they have begun including <em>different</em> cookies for the rest of the family.  I do give out small bites here and there…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhhPpVNeI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/irHFWY1MRUU/s1600-h/DSC_0063%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0063" border="0" alt="DSC_0063" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhiPdtbFI/AAAAAAAAB_c/NNp3pbY87Bk/DSC_0063_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="428" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhiuPyxuI/AAAAAAAAB_g/rDHtqIuD620/s1600-h/DSC_0065%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0065" border="0" alt="DSC_0065" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhjOAk87I/AAAAAAAAB_k/kTs82x2iXPc/DSC_0065_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="428" /></a></p> <p>:: a large box filled with deliciousness from <a href="http://www.stonewallkitchen.com/">Stonewall Kitchen</a> arrived at our doorstep!  These goodies the whole family will enjoy! :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhjlJ_xVI/AAAAAAAAB_o/62pcvc9b--c/s1600-h/DSC_0079%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0079" border="0" alt="DSC_0079" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNxhkB8m6xI/AAAAAAAAB_s/P2xvbUkO5Dw/DSC_0079_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="428" /></a></p> <p>:: and I wasted no time in spending birthday money gifts on fresh crafting supplies I’ve been eyeing for a while.  My rather large collection of scrapbooking and paper crafting supplies is the result of about 13 yrs of birthdays (with a few Christmases thrown in as well).  The children and I spent our free time today trying out the various new ‘toys’!</p> <p>*******</p> <p><font size="3">I record this all here so that my heart will remember….</font></p> <p><font size="3">so that I will always count myself filled to the brim with blessings</font>!</p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-62121543651056990852010-11-09T08:12:00.002-05:002010-11-09T08:14:24.621-05:00in the book bag<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" height="200" id="Player_62305a1f-28b7-4e65-8ddb-d7e21a9c6255" width="600"> <param NAME="movie" VALUE="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fwestgacade-20%2F8010%2F62305a1f-28b7-4e65-8ddb-d7e21a9c6255&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate"><param NAME="quality" VALUE="high"><param NAME="bgcolor" VALUE="#FFFFFF"><param NAME="allowscriptaccess" VALUE="always"><embed src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fwestgacade-20%2F8010%2F62305a1f-28b7-4e65-8ddb-d7e21a9c6255&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate" id="Player_62305a1f-28b7-4e65-8ddb-d7e21a9c6255" quality="high" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="Player_62305a1f-28b7-4e65-8ddb-d7e21a9c6255" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" align="middle" height="200px" width="600px"></embed></OBJECT> <noscript></noscript></div><br />
Being a lover of books and all things wordy, even I do believe that my 'book bag' so to speak is rather full these days. The challenge is to read one book at a time, rather than my current method of placing nearly all of them in various corners of our home (or of the car) for when I have <em>just a minute</em> to read. Hmmm...must think on this. It's helpful that I read quickly, but these will take me into the new year!<br />
<br />
For now, let me introduce the current book bag (minus the crafting books. <em>ahem</em>.) ::<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1576831159?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1576831159">Holy Habits: A Woman's Guide to Intentional Living</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1576831159" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ the women of our church are reading through this; the author's focus is on examining the nature of God through His various names which informs how we are to live intentionally. Simplistic, practical and yet profound in its reminders!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615278752?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0615278752">Grace Is For Sinners</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0615278752" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ After meeting this author recently, her journey of redemption peaked my interest (and I wanted to support a self-published author). This one just came in and only a few chapters have been read, so much more to go! Serena has a <a href="http://www.graceisforsinners.com/">website of the same title</a> with more of her story.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433506327?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1433506327">Don't Waste Your Life</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1433506327" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ all of this talk of living intentionally caused me to download the <a href="http://christianaudio.com/free">free audio version</a> of this title (only available for November). When I can recover my iPod from my children's hands, then I'll get to listening. I appreciate all things John Piper!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1608995925?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1608995925">The Spirit of Food: 34 Writers on Feasting and Fasting toward God</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1608995925" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ oh, it just seems interesting! On its way from Amazon....not much to report just yet.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1581348339?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1581348339">Treasuring God in Our Traditions</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1581348339" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ did I mention I like the Pipers? John's wife, Noel, writes so eloquently on the need to infuse our yearly celebrations with the presence of God at work so that the next generation may know Him. So. So. Good. A <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/resources/treasuring-god-in-our-traditions">free download</a> of the book is available at the Piper's website.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310321913?ie=UTF8&tag=domesticserenity-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310321913">One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domesticserenity-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0310321913" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><br />
~ this one hasn't been released yet! The author, who I also had the pleasure of meeting, generously gifted an e-version to conference attendees...woohoo! Refreshing, challenging and full of over-the-top encouragement :: words for the soul.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://amylynnandrews.com/tell-your-time/">Tell Your Time</a> (not pictured) <br />
~ the e-book is transformative! Seriously. I'm a fairly organized person who has read a few time management books in the past...yet, there was much to glean from this quick read of a book (it's only 30 pages). The author, yes...I again had the opportunity to meet her, deals with the internal before the external when considering how we spend our time. She asks questions such as <em>'what do you want to be remembered for? what kind of person would you like to be?</em>' as part of the process. This <a href="http://amylynnandrews.com/tell-your-time/">time management approach</a> deals with who you are (or desire to be) before attempting to even look at how to plot your time. I cannot recommend this highly enough, it's excellent!<br />
<br />
<br />
Oh, good reads in store!daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-63644680357237822952010-11-03T10:53:00.001-04:002010-11-12T10:30:35.693-05:00on being perfect :: final thoughts<p><font size="1"><em>{part </em></font><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-one.html"><font size="1"><em>one</em></font></a><font size="1"><em> & part </em></font><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-two.html"><font size="1"><em>two</em></font></a><font size="1"><em> here; just some thoughts after hearing an </em></font><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/why-blog-being-an-upside-down-blogger-part-1/"><font size="1"><em>impactful speech</em></font></a><font size="1"><em>}</em></font></p> <p>I have no words that will release you into never struggling again with perfectionism.</p> <p>This post may even disappoint and bring on more questions than answers.</p> <p>I can however, point towards a few directions that caused a change of mentality and attitude :: that radically rocked this walk with a holy God.</p> <p>Early in our marriage, we came across a book just released whose title pulled the reader in.  My husband read chapters and quickly attempted to peak my interest as well.  I was <em>not</em> hooked.  <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grip-Grace-Max-Lucado/dp/0849911435"><em>In the Grip of Grace</em></a><em>?  </em>Really?  Through my mind came the usual and often heard responses to that word grace ::</p> <p><em>“Oh, grace is wimpy isn’t it?  It’s for those who are trying to get away with sin, who want God to cover-up their mistakes with quick forgiveness.  He’s a holy God!  He has standards!  Grace is only a way out….”</em></p> <p>What a serious lack of understanding.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNF3eupC9LI/AAAAAAAAB-4/MXJWBTF-ttQ/s1600-h/almondblossom%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="almondblossom" border="0" alt="almondblossom" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNF3fH752eI/AAAAAAAAB-8/Plb5E2CHbiI/almondblossom_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="430" /></a></p> <p>In the first few pages of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grip-Grace-Max-Lucado/dp/0849911435">this book</a> (yes, I did finally concede to reading) the author tells the story of several brothers who have failed their father by running away and finding themselves living among people & ways unlike their homeland.  Each one’s response to their wrongdoing is described as only Max Lucado can do.  One gives up and becomes like the rest, believing a way back to the father is impossible.  Another is so angry at this brother and chooses to carefully watch & record the wrong being done (therefore ignoring his own misdeeds).  And one son does return when the messenger comes with an announcement that the father is awaiting them all.</p> <p>But is was <font size="3">the fourth son</font> that caused me to stop flipping pages and read this story multiple times.  One son…he couldn’t accept a way back to the father when the messenger arrived.  <em>Simply return after what he had done?</em></p> <p><em>Just go with this messenger?</em>  </p> <p>Instead, this son chooses to try and <font size="3">work his way back into favor</font>.  Instead of accepting the ride home, he tries to <font size="3">build a new way</font> back home.  It was impossible, the journey too long.  And yet, he works and works and works…</p> <p>Unable to accept that the way home was to ride the messenger’s back, this son slaves away with little success that he cannot see will never work; he is <font size="3">so proud</font> of the accomplishment that is <font size="3">destined to fail</font>.  He was unable to accept a father who was granting him favor, a way to himself, that the son had not earned.  </p> <p><font size="3">He couldn’t accept grace.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNF3f7sP1tI/AAAAAAAAB_A/j356bio2d0g/s1600-h/almondblossom2%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="almondblossom2" border="0" alt="almondblossom2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TNF3gme9q5I/AAAAAAAAB_E/Mm3L44k7uQA/almondblossom2_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="471" /></a></p> <p>I could relate to this son and the striving; the cringing inside when I failed and the attempt to <em>‘not ever do that again’</em>, whatever THAT was.  The attempt of perfectionism block’s ones view.  First, there is the <font size="3">pride issue</font> and the belief that ‘all is well when I do well—and I really haven’t done much wrong’, which is false at best.  Then, when there is inevitable failure or mistakes, perfectionism breeds a condemning attitude : ‘<em>What was I thinking?  How could I have been so…(fill in the blank)?’  So</em> efforts are doubled up, reinforcements put in place :: legalism established or restored.</p> <p>What a vicious cycle that kills the spirit!  <font size="3">Oh, we need grace.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">What is this grace all about?</font></p> <p>I offer simple thoughts, not great theology.  Grace is what makes up the difference.  It is the undeserved favor of God that will ‘fill in the blanks’ when we come up short.  <em>And we always will</em>.  We are responsible to do our part, but God already knows that our very best, even if it could be perfect all of the time, will always fall short to what is needed.  This could be a depressing thought, except for <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ephesians%202:%208-9&version=NIV">His grace</a> (Eph 2: 8-9).</p> <p><font size="3">Because grace makes up the difference.</font>  God already provided a way for those of us who tend to lean towards the striving, the gaining of success by our efforts alone, the thinking we may actually have it all together.  Grace keeps me from being caught up in who I am supposed to be and <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20cor%2015:10&version=NIV">accepting of who I am</a><em>—and who God is through me</em> (I Cor 15:10).  </p> <p>As mothers, wives, as women on this journey…we need grace.  Not only for ourselves, but also for those who follow.</p> <p><font size="3">Lord, grant us understanding.</font></p> <p>***************</p> <p>If you or anyone else battles with this concept of grace as I did, I highly recommend ~</p> <p><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans&version=NIV"><font size="3">The book of Romans</font></a> :: by far the best explanation of this often misunderstood concept of grace.  Read it front to back, over & over, asking the Lord to illuminate the truths within the words.  He will.</p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grip-Grace-Max-Lucado/dp/0849911435"><font size="3">The Grip of Grace</font></a> by Max Lucado :: an extension of understanding Romans in simple, everyday language.  Excellent!</p> <p> </p> <p>***************</p> <p><u>the whole series</u>:</p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-one.html">part one:  a reformed perfectionist</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-two.html">part two:  perfectionism is insecurity.  insecurity is fear.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/11/on-being-perfect-final-thoughts.html">final thoughts:  in the grip of grace</a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml"><font size="1"><em>photo credit</em></font></a></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-63949276901467414912010-11-01T13:58:00.001-04:002010-11-01T16:27:30.565-04:00from our days<p><em><font size="1">{we’ll continue sharing around <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-two.html">perfectionism & grace</a> tomorrow :: just a few shots from our family that I am grateful for today…}</font></em></p> <p><font size="3">Gratitude</font> from our days as a family ::</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_mUjb7HI/AAAAAAAAB9w/5-10RcdcTVI/s1600-h/DSC_0116%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0116" border="0" alt="DSC_0116" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_m3Kk28I/AAAAAAAAB90/M_aGOBRGdhg/DSC_0116_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><em>:: for this 4 month old’s focus</em>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_nqsvBbI/AAAAAAAAB94/PUBsOKe2cKY/s1600-h/DSC_0072%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0072" border="0" alt="DSC_0072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_oS3cgyI/AAAAAAAAB98/BuTYjJOkpxs/DSC_0072_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><em>:: for siblings willing to read together</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_osYwylI/AAAAAAAAB-A/TftfLyoCODE/s1600-h/DSC_0094%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0094" border="0" alt="DSC_0094" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_pVeF8bI/AAAAAAAAB-E/T9RsWHvTsuk/DSC_0094_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p><em>:: and play together</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_p12FKYI/AAAAAAAAB-I/CVtCEL7ataA/s1600-h/DSC_0104%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0104" border="0" alt="DSC_0104" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_qbQ2IaI/AAAAAAAAB-M/VVm9pLH8Yk4/DSC_0104_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEKcvx057pwf0x4w9VhIfBtXQEdiWJmiAnGUzDhh8UiDQV6XOobquFpPDib-tKIX6bFcPPTZsENOZbdvQEm5DYJnNPdrhbDmAgw6IJebL6CGKPslBuLRj0Cz73_Z-ANZ220OVafRpZ_A/s1600-h/DSC_0025%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0025" border="0" alt="DSC_0025" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_rq4r2OI/AAAAAAAAB-U/_r6MD_HpRXM/DSC_0025_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_sId4guI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/x08mln3pU7g/s1600-h/DSC_0112%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0112" border="0" alt="DSC_0112" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_skMTM6I/AAAAAAAAB-c/RD26ano54bs/DSC_0112_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p><em>:: for creativity!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_tRukpJI/AAAAAAAAB-g/hRFjRXzmG-Y/s1600-h/DSC_0101%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0101" border="0" alt="DSC_0101" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_t_JEYRI/AAAAAAAAB-k/BRFXGbNfFc8/DSC_0101_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="449" /></a></p> <p><em>  :: for a little girl growing in reading skills</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_uWXPh3I/AAAAAAAAB-o/wyuxNtqPqU0/s1600-h/DSC_0121%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0121" border="0" alt="DSC_0121" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_vcJxNII/AAAAAAAAB-s/my-ATkYhONk/DSC_0121_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><em>:: for new ways to organize!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_v6pssTI/AAAAAAAAB-w/2QRhBFf49js/s1600-h/DSC_0017%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="DSC_0017" border="0" alt="DSC_0017" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TM7_wbyg14I/AAAAAAAAB-0/MOzOVQHDTYY/DSC_0017_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="430" /></a><em></em></p> <p><em>:: for the sights & smells of baking in the kitchen</em> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2"><font size="3">For all this, I give thanks!</font>  Participating in A Holy Experience’s <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/the-only-way-to-become-the-bride-of-christ/">Multitude Mondays</a>. </font></p> <p><font size="2"></font></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> <p><font size="1"><em>{to answer a question ~ yes, I’ve recently disabled the comments on the blog; </em></font><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/p/why-not-comments.html"><font size="1"><em>a brief explanation here</em></font></a><font size="1"><em>.  Please feel free to share thoughts </em></font><font size="1"><em>via email</em></font><font size="1"><em> however, I enjoy hearing from you!  domesticserenity(AT)gmail(DOT)com , replace with appropriate symbols, no spaces.  thanks!}</em></font></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-29435648479428041392010-10-29T05:00:00.000-04:002010-11-12T10:31:09.609-05:00on being perfect :: part two<p><em><font size="1">{part one </font><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-one.html"><font size="1">here</font></a><font size="1"> :: writing in response to thoughts shared at the </font><a href="http://therelevantconference.com/"><font size="1">Relevant conference</font></a><font size="1">}</font></em></p> <p>Earlier this year I read Beth Moore’s newest book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/So-Long-Insecurity-Youve-Friend/dp/1414334729"><em>So Long, Insecurity</em></a> and found one sentence to be a stopper :: one that will stay in my mind for a long time.</p> <p><em><font size="3">“Perfectionism is <font size="4">insecurity</font> in an art form.”</font></em>  Beth writes that statement in such eloquent terms.  </p> <p><em><font size="3">A form of art</font></em> :: where the individual has mastered the striving so well that the results <em>almost seem beautiful</em>, picturesque even and therefore soliciting the adoration of others.  Which of course feeds the cycle of perfectionism/insecurity even more.</p> <p><font size="2">In the words of this quote lies the foundation for the ferocious battle of trying to keep it all together all of the time.</font></p> <p><font size="3"><em>FEAR</em>.</font><font size="2">  A fear that drains the color from life.</font></p> <p><font size="2"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TMn8tQY1W_I/AAAAAAAAB9g/Vmo5zrPwTY0/s1600-h/paintbrushes%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="paintbrushes" border="0" alt="paintbrushes" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TMn8uAHLE2I/AAAAAAAAB9k/RNJ495q0sOw/paintbrushes_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="639" /></a></font><font size="2">Insecurity is the <font size="3">desperate fear</font> that we won’t be accepted, applauded, or approved of by whichever group is the focus of our attentions.  So we try harder and do better at keeping up appearances while allowing very little access into the real tender part of us that wonders how much will be enough.  </font></p> <p><font size="2"></font></p> <p><font size="2"></font></p> <p><font size="2">Perfectionism is tricky, a slippery slope indeed.  In my case, my <font size="3">God-given personality</font> is hard-wired for being detailed, orderly and for pursuing excellence.  It’s not a stress factor, just simply the way I am.  Think of Moses and of the necessary focus needed to fully write out God’s law <em>exactly</em> as He gave it :: yep, that’s me.  There is nothing wrong with this!  Let me say that again.</font></p> <p><font size="2">Pursuing excellence is not the problem :: I was born this way with the intention by God that it be used <font size="3">for good and for His glory</font>.  So were you, whatever the personality.</font></p> <p><font size="2">This gift from God becomes a hindrance to me when <em>my strength</em> stretches out too far and becomes <em>my weakness.</em>  When the focus of my attention is others and not God’s glory ::  when the approval of God’s favor upon me is based on performance and ‘excellent’ behavior…well, the good gift is misused <em>and</em> misunderstood.  </font></p> <p><font size="2"><font size="3">Strengths overextended become weaknesses</font>.  </font><font size="2">But there is a way out of this cycle, this messy path.</font></p> <p><font size="2"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TMn8u_quKTI/AAAAAAAAB9o/toCbZgP7bKQ/s1600-h/paintbrushes%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="paintbrushes" border="0" alt="paintbrushes" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TMn8vRpg_QI/AAAAAAAAB9s/ltRSWwVTulY/paintbrushes_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="479" /></a> </font></p> <p><font size="2"><font size="3">An understanding and acceptance of<em> GRACE</em></font> :: abundant, lavish <em>grace </em>:: that restores all of the color.</font></p> <p><font size="2"></font></p> <p><font size="2"><em></em></font></p> <p><font size="2"><em></em></font></p> <p> </p> <p>*************</p> <p><u>the whole series</u>:</p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-one.html">part one:  a reformed perfectionist</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-two.html">part two:  perfectionism is insecurity.  insecurity is fear.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/11/on-being-perfect-final-thoughts.html">final thoughts:  in the grip of grace</a></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="1"><em><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml">photo credit</a></em></font></p> <p><font size="2"> </font></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-2536727638964463522010-10-27T06:00:00.000-04:002010-11-12T10:25:25.086-05:00on being perfect :: part one<p>I’m a reformed perfectionist.</p> <p>You know, the Type A first-born sort of thing.  But much bigger in my case.  This is a result of a combination of factors from personality (God-given!) to home life growing up.  Childhood for me was full of an abundance of rules and structure, but I don’t necessarily see all of this as completely out of line.  </p> <p>My mother I’m convinced is the original <a href="http://flylady.com/">FlyLady</a> and could have made some money in her day.  <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Once-Month-Cooking-Spending-Delicious/dp/0805418350">Once-a-month cooking</a> or freezing food ahead of time?  Yep, she missed publicizing that one too as this was a norm in our household long before the books & press.  You see what I mean…we were that kind of family and I was that kind of kid.</p> <p>So, what then is the big deal?  Is the desire for keeping surroundings uncluttered or organized an issue?  </p> <p>Being ultra-detailed and a planner a problem?</p> <p>Well, <em>it can be</em>…</p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="chains" border="0" alt="chains" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TMfXKk0183I/AAAAAAAAB9c/GcBMRlawBrs/chains_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></p> <p>At the <a href="http://therelevantconference.com/">Relevant Conference</a> last weekend, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">Ann Voskamp</a> (probably my favorite modern day writer), spoke some profound words that has me pondering and thinking much.  </p> <p><em><font color="#048dbb" size="3">“We do not <font size="4">achieve</font> our identity in Christ, we <font size="4">receive</font> it.”</font></em>  Her words that caused my pen to pause and my heart to beat loudly as I recalled times past :: of the chains that hindered freedom. </p> <p>The former problem of perfectionism in my life is wrapped up in those few words.  Somehow the truth became twisted as I was caught in the trap of believing that if all was in order (and if I could keep it this way nearly all of the time), then the approval of <font size="3">man and God</font> was in the bag.</p> <p><font size="3">Big. Fat. Lie</font>.  And yet, this way of thinking dominated my life for years.  <font size="3"><em>Achieving</em> and not <em>receiving</em>, </font><font size="2">only to be left soul-tired and weary.  This pattern of thought bears little, or let me be bold and say NO fruit.</font></p> <p><font size="2"><em>So how did I unwind and unravel this mindset?</em>  </font></p> <p><font size="2"><font size="3">I didn’t.</font>  But I <em>did</em> have a head-on-collision with <em>GRACE</em>…</font></p> <p><font size="2"></font></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> <p><em><font size="1">*************</font></em></p> <p><u>the whole series</u>:</p> <p>part one:  a reformed perfectionist</p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/10/on-being-perfect-part-two.html">part two:  perfectionism is insecurity.  insecurity is fear.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2010/11/on-being-perfect-final-thoughts.html">final thoughts:  in the grip of grace</a></p> <p> </p> <p><em><font size="1"><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml">photo credit</a></font></em></p> <p><em><font size="1"></font></em></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-24047955151214278782010-10-26T06:45:00.001-04:002010-10-25T23:35:28.922-04:00kindred spiritsI've been away before, <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/2009/07/quiet-moments.html">alone at times</a> to reflect and <span style="font-size: large;">soak up the quiet</span>. Home life is full of noise, good sounds of course, but I crave a piece of quiet every now and then...<br />
<br />
...but this time, the yearly pilgrimage away from the home front led to a strong desire to connect, to meet with women of like-minded vision and purpose. To not be considered odd.<br />
<br />
And so, I stole away to the <em><a href="http://therelevantconference.com/">Relevant Conference</a></em> last weekend. A carved out place and space of time for <span style="font-size: large;">women who write</span> :: who pour their hearts out to a screen, click, and pray that the message has meaning, brings hope, or somehow stirs the soul.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b5TrxRExBL-yQLSX40Q1QlDBGWupHXKzYk3mMpwqs1AlLiNPxkiAvMChjD1d4Fl7rf5sTx0wf1Yl2MTfUFtV2Zr4BT77bwOpFhyP_1q2FCOMYTLqk8DiXfKmGhkH0H-XlYuO3VHR3jE/s1600/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b5TrxRExBL-yQLSX40Q1QlDBGWupHXKzYk3mMpwqs1AlLiNPxkiAvMChjD1d4Fl7rf5sTx0wf1Yl2MTfUFtV2Zr4BT77bwOpFhyP_1q2FCOMYTLqk8DiXfKmGhkH0H-XlYuO3VHR3jE/s640/084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
My words are often timid ones, shared with shakiness of spirit :: writers understand this fragile nature of our pen to paper <em>{or fingers to keyboard}</em> experiences. And in the space of forty-eight short long hours, <span style="font-size: large;">I</span> <span style="font-size: large;">found grace</span> among sisters in Christ who write.<br />
<br />
Kindred spirits who connected with the shakiness and yet the desire to shape an audience's mind and heart with words. The only response is to give thanks to the unseen One who knew the felt need for <span style="font-size: large;">sisterhood</span> among authors, speakers, and<em> </em>yes...<em>bloggers</em>.<br />
<br />
I am grateful.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am changed.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhR4L1r1dJodbvVtt5eVDve09zgKknhi1t7SWKyfEyCc3C_7f1MLUdX5gcFSUZ5ppSuKbRWXm4T5DQasH9mafFeZtU1dgmwANj_NDFrPRsW65D5kDQvyvWeHyc9n0comuqvtBespeUEY/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhR4L1r1dJodbvVtt5eVDve09zgKknhi1t7SWKyfEyCc3C_7f1MLUdX5gcFSUZ5ppSuKbRWXm4T5DQasH9mafFeZtU1dgmwANj_NDFrPRsW65D5kDQvyvWeHyc9n0comuqvtBespeUEY/s640/083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wisdom graciously shared</span> from <a href="http://therelevantconference.com/the-relevant-speakers/">the speakers</a> ::<br />
<br />
<em>"You can't give away what you don't have in your heart. It's the living of life, not the writing of life that means something. Crafting a message that will change hearts includes words of truth <strong>plus</strong> a life of integrity."</em><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">Sally Clarkson, <a href="http://www.wholeheart.org/category/our-books/">Whole Heart Ministries</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><em>"There's a difference between being encouraging vs. painting a picture on our blogs of a life that doesn't really exist. It's too easy to be filled by the affirmation of others (in comments & such) instead of by the Lord. Be authentic, having a deep sense of littleness."</em></div><div style="text-align: right;">Angie Smith, <a href="http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/">Bring the Rain</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><em>"We don't always get to pick our story, but we can all show God through it."</em></div><div style="text-align: right;">Serena Woods, <a href="http://www.graceisforsinners.com/">Grace is for Sinners</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><em>"We do not <strong>achieve</strong> our identity in Christ, we <strong>receive</strong> our identity in Him. We serve with our writing, our blogs. Give to God the deepest parts of yourself and share in writing pieces of what God has done :: yet always write for an audience of one, Him alone."</em></div><div style="text-align: right;">Ann Voskamp, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">A Holy Experience</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo from conference: </span></em><a href="http://store.dayspring.com/dabocr.html"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dayspring's wooden book crops</span></em></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4255184274671374613.post-41601626540414471152010-10-20T11:48:00.001-04:002010-10-20T11:48:45.235-04:00in the stillness<p>The desire for quiet, and even the planning for such times, does not always match up to how life will unfold :)  </p> <p>I say this with a smile as life in the last week offered more opportunities for me to be ‘in the midst’ instead of away from it all for a little.  Which is of course a perfect set-up to see how I would respond!  <em>Ahem</em>.  Oh, it’s all good and this weekend is yet another time with pockets away for reflection & refreshment.</p> <p>So, I continue to be still in this space…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TL8PWNADhPI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/8B1QcGw9f8o/s1600-h/DSC_0104%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0104" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="428" alt="DSC_0104" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tmRpDc1wEWg/TL8PW42wN9I/AAAAAAAAB8U/g7s7AOA_Qhc/DSC_0104_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3">May your week unfold with grace</font>.  May you see the gifts of His hand all around you, even ‘in the midst’.</p> <p><em>Blessings.</em></p> daniele @ domestic serenityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16008271804813050098noreply@blogger.com