tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68497787721008105292024-03-16T00:34:11.967-07:00The Little HomesteadT H E * L I T T L E * H O M E S T E A D
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-55018400962149639322023-06-28T21:05:00.002-07:002023-06-29T01:36:36.896-07:00Strangers and Pilgrims<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKzn7yoS-aEf9-CDQCXCCs_WfgZa8A8Zzp7G6SCXasxCajpFy2BAorX5-aHmOqextsR0EYhOS-qNcII_GKZyX8sL5TSWrFPgaTAtI0DI3WJ5K79HQUFMHjEkSInbnKTrLBAJtRXTWqr3KFwyQLvWFoubjgTQDjJmt0-OKnVMGyaJlAEQIqI1l7UiE3_8/s813/0037778da3a6b15f41d47896e63a4ed2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKzn7yoS-aEf9-CDQCXCCs_WfgZa8A8Zzp7G6SCXasxCajpFy2BAorX5-aHmOqextsR0EYhOS-qNcII_GKZyX8sL5TSWrFPgaTAtI0DI3WJ5K79HQUFMHjEkSInbnKTrLBAJtRXTWqr3KFwyQLvWFoubjgTQDjJmt0-OKnVMGyaJlAEQIqI1l7UiE3_8/w278-h400/0037778da3a6b15f41d47896e63a4ed2.jpg" width="278" /></a></div><br />Hello dear friends and quiet followers,<p></p><p>I hope your week is going well? It's Winter here in my corner of the world, so I am tucked up cozy here in our little cottage. Today I've been baking Gingerbread; actually I've baked this recipe about every two weeks lately, as it's just so scrumptious. I find it's best to leave it (wrapped) to sit for a day and the flavours develop even more and it is very moist. If you live in a warm climate I recommend keeping it in the fridge. Here's the recipe:</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ P U M P K I N G I N G E R B R E A D ~</p><p style="text-align: center;">1 cup Pumpkin puree </p><p style="text-align: center;">Half cup apple butter or applesauce</p><p style="text-align: center;">Half cup milk</p><p style="text-align: center;">2 eggs - beaten</p><p style="text-align: center;">70g butter - melted</p><p style="text-align: center;">1 teaspoon Ginger, 1 teaspoon mixed spice</p><p style="text-align: center;">1.5 teaspoons cinnamon, half teaspoon nutmeg</p><p style="text-align: center;">3/4 Cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons molasses</p><p style="text-align: center;">One and a half cups of flour + 1 - 2 Tablespoons extra if needed</p><p style="text-align: center;">1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt</p><p style="text-align: center;">Mix all together and bake in a lined loaf pan for 50 - 60 minutes. Cool completely before slicing.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxQXNE404UP8HU4IUzcFWytc8CrBnrXTElE2_UAniiLP412Pc56yHadyMbwdBnsNwY7V4I_Qr9Ulfnqw5_cdIxgDD9AVrLKi0-p2u8BQp_ZBqVZgDBANRgzoZ9zPlKxOmRgki-NnP6GtLBgz9mVneIhk5PrhTrBf-EgD0oGZyMIGoCBwzlE-d_wq3_8A/s600/329b15ed093ccf625aef2848266fa9e9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxQXNE404UP8HU4IUzcFWytc8CrBnrXTElE2_UAniiLP412Pc56yHadyMbwdBnsNwY7V4I_Qr9Ulfnqw5_cdIxgDD9AVrLKi0-p2u8BQp_ZBqVZgDBANRgzoZ9zPlKxOmRgki-NnP6GtLBgz9mVneIhk5PrhTrBf-EgD0oGZyMIGoCBwzlE-d_wq3_8A/s320/329b15ed093ccf625aef2848266fa9e9.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yjRgUdahEDYSoE799pwKWOGZ4t3MGQiScfLOH6KvLJNyPoo5RTw1fmG9BZMz1GV7CuO3UH3jvXMQz-2QhUgRUWVAMvu-CP2gd9QlKrFWrxm5nwoKzansfTudhy9shHa4k_pr0nzKwDdmxgVYWAkyPy1tpPNVfYbqatiPkVwHTU-NPATFPgeH69Kho9g/s672/gingerbread-223.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="504" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yjRgUdahEDYSoE799pwKWOGZ4t3MGQiScfLOH6KvLJNyPoo5RTw1fmG9BZMz1GV7CuO3UH3jvXMQz-2QhUgRUWVAMvu-CP2gd9QlKrFWrxm5nwoKzansfTudhy9shHa4k_pr0nzKwDdmxgVYWAkyPy1tpPNVfYbqatiPkVwHTU-NPATFPgeH69Kho9g/w300-h400/gingerbread-223.webp" width="300" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I snagged this pic off the internet (Mississippi Sideboard)as I forgot to take one..., but it it looks just like this)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ </div>..Now what I actually wanted to share was something that happened this week. <div>I don't know about you, but I try to keep a very neat and tidy home, with varying degrees of success :)</div><div>I also appreciate all the little things we have in our home, such as antiques, various finds from the thrift store, handmade items etc. But just lately I have had several accidents with things. First off a handle broke on a vintage cup that I love. I was very sad about this, as it was a set, with a cup, saucer and plate that my husband gave me one year as an anniversary present. I was going to try to glue the handle on, but my husband thought that would make the cup unsafe, especially as it holds hot liquids !!...so I sadly threw it in the rubbish :(</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtJYs4rlLPJ7Lty0r2t0IkcFHrpKSkNwmnrLWRaBnz77E7CtIC57Ah1y1MmU5ziNn_2ZxKumUWZZv5naYubfAcF9SP6zNj_RxcLs-zp-BOcRpOu-MiUDm3yVP8NTM5PPlz3hUKw4387pVk41iEw5gp0K6lQ_aRpdThCBQbthJ9xl0zpz6NRjyx1P3wFQ/s564/94e9566449cea8b85878ed47fda919c0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtJYs4rlLPJ7Lty0r2t0IkcFHrpKSkNwmnrLWRaBnz77E7CtIC57Ah1y1MmU5ziNn_2ZxKumUWZZv5naYubfAcF9SP6zNj_RxcLs-zp-BOcRpOu-MiUDm3yVP8NTM5PPlz3hUKw4387pVk41iEw5gp0K6lQ_aRpdThCBQbthJ9xl0zpz6NRjyx1P3wFQ/s320/94e9566449cea8b85878ed47fda919c0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>...then just yesterday I was putting away some bleach and the top wasn't on properly and some spilled on my new apron that I handmade :( I've made three aprons out of one linen tablecloth that I purchased from kmart. The tablecloth cost about $12.00, but the PROJECT to get these aprons cut out and sewn has taken me almost a year ! I don't have a lot of spare time, so I just snatch time when I can. They are cross over aprons and I wear one every day to help keep my clothes clean. So I found it very disappointing when I've worked so hard on them that one is now stained by a bleach splodge.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoyFmfXEXvtgHMUgDafnkPGNCCefIGb6qGwdNq6fpbkYde4UKhNjD5GlPsgXZfakiClyb6C3n7eEK4elQV8NSVL9Vy_ZSvkB7amu2AQm8x-lyI1mHsNGl11J4gmMusHXhXJYVoATuLS1yrGQI9G7ro5LzAyBN-m2Rxzn2O6lMPL4R8f_36mqrI6P1t28/s640/596b89ae7dbe65f60232a41ff8906f20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="468" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoyFmfXEXvtgHMUgDafnkPGNCCefIGb6qGwdNq6fpbkYde4UKhNjD5GlPsgXZfakiClyb6C3n7eEK4elQV8NSVL9Vy_ZSvkB7amu2AQm8x-lyI1mHsNGl11J4gmMusHXhXJYVoATuLS1yrGQI9G7ro5LzAyBN-m2Rxzn2O6lMPL4R8f_36mqrI6P1t28/w293-h400/596b89ae7dbe65f60232a41ff8906f20.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">...then just today I was getting ready to wash some dishes and accidentally wacked the top of my new food processor lid with a knife and its made a small shattered mark on the rim....oh my ! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Maybe for some people all of this would be no big deal, but for me I try to look after all my things, as I know the labour involved to earn money to buy them and or the time it takes to make something by hand. So I was feeling a little flat about it all. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At the same time as I was thinking about it, I felt the Lord changing my focus. So I went with it and it was like he was saying to my heart 'Why are you so downcast over these material things which are here today and gone tomorrow. They are only temporary and not eternal'. I knew this was the truth. They are just things. It was a good lesson and I'm thankful for the reminder. I need to not hold onto things too tightly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I tend to be a home body and also by nature an introvert. I enjoy my own company and can happily stay busy here at home. I have to be careful though that my very home and it's contents doesn't become an 'idol' of sorts, as it truly is my escape from the world. I suppose in a way, my home is is an area where I feel I have some control. We can choose what comes into it, when so much that is happening in the world today, I have no control over. There's just so much that I don't agree with. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WGmAH2pD6gASmcx2y3I9NSthjcKjcHHToF7mn9s8IvXaB-CkiduD-uxR7vCIdEWA2z2UEUMBbjqySV05Wm1FTuWNLdN8PqwmJ33WL3PK-RM7nJ4Lxp2Q423-xyHINsRUuaYnumMecdRewiY5zfsIID2Cqbc-e2MNQkx3lGGAj0lSf6vig3RgfjUEV8g/s714/7266f383119f17042034f4126babe0db.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WGmAH2pD6gASmcx2y3I9NSthjcKjcHHToF7mn9s8IvXaB-CkiduD-uxR7vCIdEWA2z2UEUMBbjqySV05Wm1FTuWNLdN8PqwmJ33WL3PK-RM7nJ4Lxp2Q423-xyHINsRUuaYnumMecdRewiY5zfsIID2Cqbc-e2MNQkx3lGGAj0lSf6vig3RgfjUEV8g/w316-h400/7266f383119f17042034f4126babe0db.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;">So I am learning to not be too upset over small things, even if it did have a special meaning attached to it. All things wear out, break, and decay eventually. And one day this home here on earth, with all it's special little things will not be my world anymore.</div></div></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="text-align: center;">Matthew 6:19 - 20</span></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;">Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. </span><span class="reftext" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0092f2; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/6-20.htm" style="color: #008ae6; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_top"><b>20</b></a></span><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;">“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; </span><span class="reftext" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0092f2; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/6-21.htm" style="color: #008ae6; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_top"><b>21</b></a></span><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;">for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I will leave you with this precious old hymn, I hope you enjoy it as much as me. Blessings and peace to you all ~ Linda</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fUyxGxYXs8OFzO93ebKeaBQJTr65AaUH-nZJRnTz7qjMBczLNGaviXhYKuX1ckYUDHmtaQjTfeybvSluDo6O0Qha2OoJaeCYDDiWOimQZrI4GZDYmCpd0-bTZ8CKbVnoWT0NAeZ-jM5k3LlKJ1z1XWpC-MN8q_u9XO5ztvJ5BoOM7eKHeJfMRt3CHFk/s913/7ec1e9404a865e9c3a2d8141ec9e1085.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fUyxGxYXs8OFzO93ebKeaBQJTr65AaUH-nZJRnTz7qjMBczLNGaviXhYKuX1ckYUDHmtaQjTfeybvSluDo6O0Qha2OoJaeCYDDiWOimQZrI4GZDYmCpd0-bTZ8CKbVnoWT0NAeZ-jM5k3LlKJ1z1XWpC-MN8q_u9XO5ztvJ5BoOM7eKHeJfMRt3CHFk/w248-h400/7ec1e9404a865e9c3a2d8141ec9e1085.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h2 style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;"><i>This World Is Not My Home by A P Carter 1931</i></span></h2><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><table cellpadding="9" style="text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><ol><li><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>This world is not my home I'm just passing through<br />my treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue<br />the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b><p><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>O Lord you know I have no friend like you<br />if Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?<br />the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b></p><p></p></li><li><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>They're all expecting me and that's one thing I know<br />my savior pardoned me and now I onward go<br />I know He'll take me through though I am weak and poor<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b><p><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>O Lord you know I have no friend like you<br />if Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?<br />the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b></p><p></p></li><li><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>Just up in Glory Land we'll live eternally<br />the Saints on every hand are shouting victory<br />their song of sweetest praise drifts back from Heaven's shore<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b><p><b><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>O Lord you know I have no friend like you<br />if Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?<br />the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door<br />and I can't feel at home in this world anymore</i></span></b></p></li></ol><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>https://youtu.be/vJP5XGFbcUQ</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>If you copy this little link above it will take you to a delightful version of this song being sung. It blessed me, I hope it will do the same for you.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5TxuEB6KiO6nhHlGOCQwcYGhilAHbvvH3XF7VUzbL-OnCLHMCqJXkDNFc1YSARVVMOa2uxWDseYV600pH9EOA3gpfmnQkdJeRbrCAB1Qb-qBz69HMl4GKeC0E6PRnoVazr6i8E46TiuN9SpHwcVVRezkUIYkpmPAFW3TJwPhcVPD_ArK41JjQp0860g/s660/752ee9c1f6c8790d1ef5bd7200d7a933.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="563" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5TxuEB6KiO6nhHlGOCQwcYGhilAHbvvH3XF7VUzbL-OnCLHMCqJXkDNFc1YSARVVMOa2uxWDseYV600pH9EOA3gpfmnQkdJeRbrCAB1Qb-qBz69HMl4GKeC0E6PRnoVazr6i8E46TiuN9SpHwcVVRezkUIYkpmPAFW3TJwPhcVPD_ArK41JjQp0860g/s320/752ee9c1f6c8790d1ef5bd7200d7a933.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-67297392596505066812023-06-19T13:55:00.003-07:002023-06-19T13:55:36.878-07:00Just a glimpse ...<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJzN6kFlrqfxc09ypt8y8YsggkqHs3An09MdkvrTElv_QB7ouG8rBkN3HsNHv71if6vHWCyk9-gFF0nzPr_8ANhsCt4R6uv_FVpvWcH_pAL5ebOHP3erdjHQWV8yk6ePiKz-Ik3coXRj33-eEwc-fxX1bV5018jqLHPITGnzmqR5VygbNzk4OMZpXQzDQ/s503/35f9a2f5cf4d0a7797d32e9053da877c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="360" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJzN6kFlrqfxc09ypt8y8YsggkqHs3An09MdkvrTElv_QB7ouG8rBkN3HsNHv71if6vHWCyk9-gFF0nzPr_8ANhsCt4R6uv_FVpvWcH_pAL5ebOHP3erdjHQWV8yk6ePiKz-Ik3coXRj33-eEwc-fxX1bV5018jqLHPITGnzmqR5VygbNzk4OMZpXQzDQ/w458-h640/35f9a2f5cf4d0a7797d32e9053da877c.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">Hello dear friends and quiet followers</p><p class="MsoNormal">Today as I was making the finishing touches to our evening
meal, I glimpsed a sliver of rainbow out the window. It was so lovely and
simple, that straightaway the thought came to me that it was a glimpse of God and of His faithfulness.
Sometimes that’s all we need to sustain us, to continue on. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKu5IsBdhsFIanhPr8o7ypTTjH2WVp02bKWj1Qjl-1JVRhy1XPu0m8SfDHG90EmQe7-IkD3Xkk-NN8LhC1J_VAOKtnXszVrZVID-MhALt3BiJSIfQXHiMt62k3tgIeGJoiKaqYHdC5XO1QqsotFJOYdjVdVq4VPNcjgfb619XzHfTWDhK9ZSraeTHgTQ/s500/28427_115150075184825_3480254_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKu5IsBdhsFIanhPr8o7ypTTjH2WVp02bKWj1Qjl-1JVRhy1XPu0m8SfDHG90EmQe7-IkD3Xkk-NN8LhC1J_VAOKtnXszVrZVID-MhALt3BiJSIfQXHiMt62k3tgIeGJoiKaqYHdC5XO1QqsotFJOYdjVdVq4VPNcjgfb619XzHfTWDhK9ZSraeTHgTQ/w400-h300/28427_115150075184825_3480254_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">We know He is a God
who keeps His promises, and who is forever faithful. I was reflecting on just
that last week, while driving to visit my mum. Suddenly in the car I was just
overcome with joy. I’d been thinking about my oldest granddaughter who will
turn thirteen shortly. I thought how faithful God has been in her life, how he
answered a prayer I prayed to Him when she was just
a wee baby. I was so joyful I was nearly giggling and openly smiling in the
car. Any one passing would have thought I was a bit loopy, but no, it was the
joy of the Lord filling me up.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AM-dFggQZ6pgm-dAHi3Q7V2_kNjzOde9MGVKF7eIhKVXzDUx542S1m2YPQoOKQbxchlrPxK4FXsryOyDscc_Lvuc9DFt4qy8MGpCEEoEBCDjspltm5FQZePJlsyNwgB3bnCjJH4vPiQTzXRVQlDvBRwF-BlmKxAbD3XfsibIveSwSMOCsIA-_j2ob98/s456/worship.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="456" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AM-dFggQZ6pgm-dAHi3Q7V2_kNjzOde9MGVKF7eIhKVXzDUx542S1m2YPQoOKQbxchlrPxK4FXsryOyDscc_Lvuc9DFt4qy8MGpCEEoEBCDjspltm5FQZePJlsyNwgB3bnCjJH4vPiQTzXRVQlDvBRwF-BlmKxAbD3XfsibIveSwSMOCsIA-_j2ob98/w320-h251/worship.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">God does that with us all the time, if we are ‘awake’ and aware of His ways. They can be
ever so subtle. If we are always desiring to be in His presence and constantly remind ourselves that He is always with us, then we won’t miss these little moments. I often pray: Lord may I have eyes to see and ears to hear what your Holy Spirit is saying and showing me today. </p><p class="MsoNormal">This is all I
have to share, but I trust it will encourage someone.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Blessings ~ linda<o:p></o:p></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-21108918247679948502023-06-08T20:39:00.002-07:002023-06-08T20:41:38.726-07:00Dear Lord<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLqEcLblx-IcmQleb-FKxuTadMM-2bY5HYYBB6iTSCR7weqjQffU-sWbfagEzhEhfIXkCOQIHH7gFGQ13JxDXKvIjfyrs8gBkLxTb0fyxtggLi4LPUiPCpO3PCUoPkpEtwQ0rdivDYXkktAbZtXwXcyaLRz2dsFibKqiraIIRHWjB9F0CZx0KIv3Z/s689/Hans%20Heyerdahl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLqEcLblx-IcmQleb-FKxuTadMM-2bY5HYYBB6iTSCR7weqjQffU-sWbfagEzhEhfIXkCOQIHH7gFGQ13JxDXKvIjfyrs8gBkLxTb0fyxtggLi4LPUiPCpO3PCUoPkpEtwQ0rdivDYXkktAbZtXwXcyaLRz2dsFibKqiraIIRHWjB9F0CZx0KIv3Z/w328-h400/Hans%20Heyerdahl.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Dear Lord,</p><p style="text-align: center;">I thank you for your Word, the Holy Bible, for it reminds me of who you are and of your character which is holy, righteous and just.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GbuasiZnFmaSlyBwq82_DzZGjp5UEPRoLvR8jpFX01LJ_OmhFU7OGm8rVixW-AgtYuD9ZjOEZY5gHuConNdzMTfzY50wRGRBEmK_RZBfJkxZKSGYy42dJNee3KU0rBfKOYHUWyiIpf9-83HPpja8465KDrj_cE1nE2M9oyf64bycrJoS_r_xNX8S/s750/93815b2de82f53bf9154a5d285d001cd.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="490" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GbuasiZnFmaSlyBwq82_DzZGjp5UEPRoLvR8jpFX01LJ_OmhFU7OGm8rVixW-AgtYuD9ZjOEZY5gHuConNdzMTfzY50wRGRBEmK_RZBfJkxZKSGYy42dJNee3KU0rBfKOYHUWyiIpf9-83HPpja8465KDrj_cE1nE2M9oyf64bycrJoS_r_xNX8S/w261-h400/93815b2de82f53bf9154a5d285d001cd.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I thank you that you are all seeing and all knowing. That you are omni-present; everywhere all at the same time. How wonderful this is. You are here with me right now, and yet you are still also in the furthest places of the earth.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXggec_QHHpEGwlgBhenkobfynAGaSLXgcNDQ3xBVry5CuTOX6HJcsyUEKH7qH0K-GhP7Vb1yK_pe6PrtWFh9RmJn-7vq3kz7gthoTiaKZE0xsTMrTHnWTSWXltVKkDVghjZMnBLIh5xn9GP4kOAtgB_5p6MCG1xGLkIFI13EDDZF-ysdDGXO0KZKl/s512/a4b05d73e19f9d8a8563f6d54e976de4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="269" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXggec_QHHpEGwlgBhenkobfynAGaSLXgcNDQ3xBVry5CuTOX6HJcsyUEKH7qH0K-GhP7Vb1yK_pe6PrtWFh9RmJn-7vq3kz7gthoTiaKZE0xsTMrTHnWTSWXltVKkDVghjZMnBLIh5xn9GP4kOAtgB_5p6MCG1xGLkIFI13EDDZF-ysdDGXO0KZKl/w336-h640/a4b05d73e19f9d8a8563f6d54e976de4.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I thank you that there is no where I could go or be, that you are not there. You whispered to me once that you would never leave me and I know this to be true.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAVmQThnCkvnQV-vzBHE_qmd3EfJ0i2T1Z0Y4tOcRJm8spfvtYWq7dmaFGj4Yn5nWzBFc8Zx45vrxHbO4da9lATqA1EtKBwC9HZ3oc2LxcQfOun8jQi2nJT4WbwvjuglMe9of2q96IiU2sC8tNxOjnTBqP3QEmCH8khvw_5-NDIpvRxCJaUtuoggn/s845/Richard%20Taylor%20art.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAVmQThnCkvnQV-vzBHE_qmd3EfJ0i2T1Z0Y4tOcRJm8spfvtYWq7dmaFGj4Yn5nWzBFc8Zx45vrxHbO4da9lATqA1EtKBwC9HZ3oc2LxcQfOun8jQi2nJT4WbwvjuglMe9of2q96IiU2sC8tNxOjnTBqP3QEmCH8khvw_5-NDIpvRxCJaUtuoggn/w268-h400/Richard%20Taylor%20art.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Art by Richard Taylor</div><p style="text-align: center;">I thank you that you are always faithful. loving, forgiving, merciful and true and that your ways are perfect. O how blessed is your name Father God - Yahweh. How blessed am I to be your child.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChUFvau8bILubSWcardaFv6rGqIO2FQcJz4PEw_OeJEJao88TPII8BQ9OjBNAJ8s8qMX-zRH90SCRIaTkEpCBJOYnoySz_E0njE22Hx70kDxA_c_i_hDqH9HL3GXXFSv8aaW-NNLoILlo1vXm_QMMyNUBX0tuFBX0K6bXMdG6qHMotMI1f36fof_y/s849/9cfa13c5ab863448e7bbbc730ab70c77.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="849" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChUFvau8bILubSWcardaFv6rGqIO2FQcJz4PEw_OeJEJao88TPII8BQ9OjBNAJ8s8qMX-zRH90SCRIaTkEpCBJOYnoySz_E0njE22Hx70kDxA_c_i_hDqH9HL3GXXFSv8aaW-NNLoILlo1vXm_QMMyNUBX0tuFBX0K6bXMdG6qHMotMI1f36fof_y/w266-h400/9cfa13c5ab863448e7bbbc730ab70c77.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Art by Charles Edward Wilson</div><p style="text-align: center;">I thank you that I can call on you at any time, at all times and anywhere; and that you hear me; that your interested in what I have to say and that you will answer me and my prayers in your own special, loving way.</p><p style="text-align: center;">How blessed I am to know you, to love you and to call you my Lord and my Saviour.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfvAOrfsxhlRRhmRxpf8XKXMZmqUJoPQuHVpzSUn-K1wjrcnDTf6lWNxZ5Io2xEVRKegt6wTESwTAKchlyxLZKnMIy2hijg-j6bY7cKeDPhlxMbzyZ674X3_HCEglkvzCwBQPWO7vCTqj8Vq1Y2b-wWwxZzhS2jzkHRNX9DCe57pjlrmLgmuad2tB/s570/Maria%20Danforth%20Page.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="453" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfvAOrfsxhlRRhmRxpf8XKXMZmqUJoPQuHVpzSUn-K1wjrcnDTf6lWNxZ5Io2xEVRKegt6wTESwTAKchlyxLZKnMIy2hijg-j6bY7cKeDPhlxMbzyZ674X3_HCEglkvzCwBQPWO7vCTqj8Vq1Y2b-wWwxZzhS2jzkHRNX9DCe57pjlrmLgmuad2tB/w318-h400/Maria%20Danforth%20Page.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Help me to cleave to you today; may I seek your face and speak to you throughout the day. Help me to be ever conscious of your nearness and to know and trust this deep down in my heart. </span></div><p style="text-align: center;">May I be comforted by this knowledge of your character and strengthened in my spirit as I grasp your deep love for me, my precious Lord and dearest friend ~ Amen</p><p style="text-align: center;">An excerpt from my journal today 9/06/2023</p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-28544632292593513002022-12-13T12:40:00.004-08:002022-12-14T11:28:16.052-08:00The Glorious Season<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYamxcjf3p4CLxEWz-BqmVaDw182YZnQSBOCTsEUR33qDepCwNkPawgJ1OcYaJtYyRbSCduoKRo8RhiDURGl4Klu6nN7tCY1T7VTAEQMY9pk1iLsZxjn172z0GK8zz3kqTNuduo2azbjI_o8YX6hLmr4aVQk2r2VZNJa_fyUhLFUTczg5YF3SQdT4I/s400/b5c21c46cc9a0f8ea8b1302e3a31c3ed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="274" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYamxcjf3p4CLxEWz-BqmVaDw182YZnQSBOCTsEUR33qDepCwNkPawgJ1OcYaJtYyRbSCduoKRo8RhiDURGl4Klu6nN7tCY1T7VTAEQMY9pk1iLsZxjn172z0GK8zz3kqTNuduo2azbjI_o8YX6hLmr4aVQk2r2VZNJa_fyUhLFUTczg5YF3SQdT4I/w274-h400/b5c21c46cc9a0f8ea8b1302e3a31c3ed.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello dear friends and quiet followers,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once again we find ourselves almost at the close of another year. We can reflect on all that has passed,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">all the joys and sorrows. All the unexpected blessings, all the struggles we didn't know we would face, and the Lord was with us, right by our side the whole year through. Isn't it a comfort to look back and to realise that. It is for me. I know it's a busy time for so many people, but I wanted to take this opportunity while I have a quieter morning to just reflect on a few things and share them with you. I do love this season best of all !</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/AVvXsEhFCygG_4wRu3Se_BzGQ-sI56CU2JxWv3Q6BFZMb4okD2FSRcBX3WZemSePAaH9F0SNA09PxhVCm41lC9Tidl-_FRSdmb-n2lLU9DDkKuuIeYorn_qEe0ZS9FqNk1hkjvFAMVYI_Kz2NC1u0YqYXhZBFhC-hkaR6m4zZ3uROdR0PImXmDhjVH-FAaVl/s789/c4f7beed7905c1ce80cc43d609c28fb7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="563" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCygG_4wRu3Se_BzGQ-sI56CU2JxWv3Q6BFZMb4okD2FSRcBX3WZemSePAaH9F0SNA09PxhVCm41lC9Tidl-_FRSdmb-n2lLU9DDkKuuIeYorn_qEe0ZS9FqNk1hkjvFAMVYI_Kz2NC1u0YqYXhZBFhC-hkaR6m4zZ3uROdR0PImXmDhjVH-FAaVl/w456-h640/c4f7beed7905c1ce80cc43d609c28fb7.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What does Christmas mean for you?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For me, its the pinnacle of the year. It's the time I reflect on God loving our world so much that He sent His one and only Son. I don't think about that; Christ as a baby that much at any other time. I reflect on all God has blessed us with, all He helped us with and me personally as well. I think about ways I can share and bless others in need; whether that be with some home baking/fudge or in a monetary way. There are so many people struggling financially. If you can ease someone's burden and help them to also enjoy a lovely Christmas, then what joy is that!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpwiotrhH0fqPPF-ewbOALVOlUpj82m3VrFRUakwMnXvOfZ33z7l5ax3OB5K_ua1BUnXGyhWYCFLaO-SHsQeMIG49te5RCqN9J1ouT0lZ2CXuDSmP_cp2soCMIIvsGLjQrVhicyaplu_BOWjEf4E9eJc94vMV2DYl0TBAbeC9IYKBZxUv-Z5bifn0/s845/137b6929b8107bbe2255c114a9a65ca8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpwiotrhH0fqPPF-ewbOALVOlUpj82m3VrFRUakwMnXvOfZ33z7l5ax3OB5K_ua1BUnXGyhWYCFLaO-SHsQeMIG49te5RCqN9J1ouT0lZ2CXuDSmP_cp2soCMIIvsGLjQrVhicyaplu_BOWjEf4E9eJc94vMV2DYl0TBAbeC9IYKBZxUv-Z5bifn0/w268-h400/137b6929b8107bbe2255c114a9a65ca8.jpg" width="268" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X_cl9HjoJu0XShS79hexYm8JFA0uCRnSMD3HGB7mH_mmqJTmaOd4j54NYLbYc2_v-_WGVIlAOsjtdkcfR0rUFt7mSpfaHnG-0oOqfM2ol4g_Y7R4iLxB_nQja0YgA2VYYYpjQDBdTt_M5vPwFGVT9J4iHfy2Os5ld9p4cmVsb4RohLi7ByOnUxwv/s846/9fc7d9be440f0ba9480e02ff92d14046.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X_cl9HjoJu0XShS79hexYm8JFA0uCRnSMD3HGB7mH_mmqJTmaOd4j54NYLbYc2_v-_WGVIlAOsjtdkcfR0rUFt7mSpfaHnG-0oOqfM2ol4g_Y7R4iLxB_nQja0YgA2VYYYpjQDBdTt_M5vPwFGVT9J4iHfy2Os5ld9p4cmVsb4RohLi7ByOnUxwv/w266-h400/9fc7d9be440f0ba9480e02ff92d14046.jpg" width="266" /></a></div></div><br /></div>I think about the special food we will eat at Christmas and all the preparation required to bring that feast to reality. I know you hear me mums out there :) It takes planning and a schedule to flow smoothly. To prepare things in advance so we're not left to do it all on one evening or day. I've already planned our simple menu, printed it out and have put it on the fridge door. I need to make a sponge for the Trifle, as this can be frozen. I'll make the Pavlova the day before and add the cream and strawberries Christmas Day. I've already made my Christmas cake (which is best made weeks before it will be eaten). If prepared and cooked correctly it will last well into the New Year. Our Christmas food is nearly almost the same each year, but we don't always have a turkey. Some years we have a BBQ, and cold ham as its often very hot here in New Zealand, but this year I'm going back to traditional as we will have a smaller group coming.<p></p><p>What special food do you eat in other parts of the world?</p><p style="text-align: center;"><u>M E N U 2 0 2 2</u></p><p style="text-align: center;"> Roast turkey, stuffing, gravy </p><p style="text-align: center;"> Cold sliced Ham </p><p style="text-align: center;">Grainy salad with vegetables</p><p style="text-align: center;">Steamed new potatoes</p><p style="text-align: center;">Roast Pumpkin</p><p style="text-align: center;">Peas</p><p style="text-align: center;"><u>D E S S E R T</u></p><p style="text-align: center;">Pavlova & Trifle</p><p style="text-align: center;">Maybe Jelly & Ice-cream too :)</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</p><p style="text-align: left;">We will probably have nibbles to start. Also I think we will have our meal as a late lunch, instead of dinner, so family with little ones can get them home in time...we will see. Just thinking about it all gets me excited. We don't get to spend Christmas day with all our children as one son lives further away and he will arrive Boxing Day. Our daughter and husband will spend Christmas day with his family this year, so we will see them Christmas Eve. All this juggling happens in most families. We have to be flexible and considerate of others.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEfPtWvVmfMYg2kfe7VUQBDj5oP4Q_qU4wwygSYCoQJE6U9HL43TZRC172JGtk9erajMzp0TTtfEbKXQp5hDx0tE5b2gLjW1kbhVgF29duyAzGhlfSFmWC3pYOEyTdiEMe3t6X7Ej1KLdKej8sLv5vdjDN4lkgBT1HyU2Atsy2h0ioYyMVh-gG1iA/s540/839050716b67829fdee93d39486273fa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="540" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEfPtWvVmfMYg2kfe7VUQBDj5oP4Q_qU4wwygSYCoQJE6U9HL43TZRC172JGtk9erajMzp0TTtfEbKXQp5hDx0tE5b2gLjW1kbhVgF29duyAzGhlfSFmWC3pYOEyTdiEMe3t6X7Ej1KLdKej8sLv5vdjDN4lkgBT1HyU2Atsy2h0ioYyMVh-gG1iA/w400-h381/839050716b67829fdee93d39486273fa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Do you have a Christmas tree where you live? We do, and I love to decorate it. This year we opted for buying a small (but very lovely) artificial tree. It's just easier for us now. Although I do miss the lovely piney smell. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DAfwDodfkLEyCZmNSnVXqVRUjb8HC4x8wnYsz06Uw575p7bSVqXh3Ta1Z3H3j70tNGSvEnf6lQRHcTDqNVILLzc8WREe_b1UxyWqi69kRH9QBMnpsr-LeHTtmuk9c1UhpA99zUd7NiZbcYN8YPMShdexKGkfu58kaJl31VjmHudOszc0k65SDior/s563/23d2b665dfb74ab1b8309f9cf3ddc98a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="563" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DAfwDodfkLEyCZmNSnVXqVRUjb8HC4x8wnYsz06Uw575p7bSVqXh3Ta1Z3H3j70tNGSvEnf6lQRHcTDqNVILLzc8WREe_b1UxyWqi69kRH9QBMnpsr-LeHTtmuk9c1UhpA99zUd7NiZbcYN8YPMShdexKGkfu58kaJl31VjmHudOszc0k65SDior/w400-h319/23d2b665dfb74ab1b8309f9cf3ddc98a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I remember all the different Christmases throughout my life (well not all of them - ha, my memory is not that great!), but I just think of decorating the tree with my sisters when we were little. There was a lot of crepe paper and tinsel :) We also made elaborate streamers going all across the living room ceiling in very bright colours. We would wrap up gifts for each other, which were often just our own toys, but then if we had an argument we would go and remove it from under the tree - I know how silly !! My mum would have us save our pocket money (half of it) through out the year and then we would drive into town to go to one of the big department stores and try to purchase gifts for our siblings with a tiny amount of money. Often it was just sweets.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQZMw2cFf7LsAxroaAbILgUW_l95ppwbq3rXW0MRCJw-Ab83_d0A0aUtMx6xq8V6nHNCyU8N2j9hWv2ORWKzln6T9VHM1x3k90CwSsBw5Af57Pcb9OZVx0PUjISCdpDK5Ihf1sI2u-eXyNJ_MHQPJNs_nvQKpUNDclRN7epQi-LWNGHuCeW7RDT0t/s800/467040d46058ca859d591566e6ac75b7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQZMw2cFf7LsAxroaAbILgUW_l95ppwbq3rXW0MRCJw-Ab83_d0A0aUtMx6xq8V6nHNCyU8N2j9hWv2ORWKzln6T9VHM1x3k90CwSsBw5Af57Pcb9OZVx0PUjISCdpDK5Ihf1sI2u-eXyNJ_MHQPJNs_nvQKpUNDclRN7epQi-LWNGHuCeW7RDT0t/w426-h640/467040d46058ca859d591566e6ac75b7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh the joy and excitement of Christmas morning. We get to experience that all over again now, with our grandchildren, as I know many of you do to. We just delight in buying special things for them, knowing they will be so happy. </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/AVvXsEjGDTMuDPB8XPyMGQZigwOrYX2YtaTo7pDLNhAXc8TPlBURJ5rx0Veqz2kxaLaKSJIGL7LqPjvow33vMRx3yMaIeIbkTMSydThtL44lrpyJTQn-aMgXxws_6Rf56o0IVuGsz4Y7PIMA7ErHMu1FdYoXSKN6iJvdvat_IYK7dNdTTF6KFC3GtJlWBn79/s844/365156f39cb89e112882a4ee15ccd489.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDTMuDPB8XPyMGQZigwOrYX2YtaTo7pDLNhAXc8TPlBURJ5rx0Veqz2kxaLaKSJIGL7LqPjvow33vMRx3yMaIeIbkTMSydThtL44lrpyJTQn-aMgXxws_6Rf56o0IVuGsz4Y7PIMA7ErHMu1FdYoXSKN6iJvdvat_IYK7dNdTTF6KFC3GtJlWBn79/w429-h640/365156f39cb89e112882a4ee15ccd489.jpg" width="429" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know some people don't celebrate Christmas and that saddens me, more for the children's sake than anything else, because it's so much fun for children. Plus they get taught about the real meaning of Christmas. There are opportunities to encourage them to think of others and how they too can share and bring joy. They get to learn about God's great love and mercy for this world...it's all glorious to me :)</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/AVvXsEiFNchrd4FAe5u3ZKTKUktsPWq3Nwbut6c11VMxNomLkKGmMgRFR4BN594eZCJr7iAXNKyRbzfhZzDiNSfMjH4wx5pCQsuedMn_my5c_v2u3oX3Ct_005xkrA2d67TPBce5aPycXkdWtFKv2wc5C7SH8pRzJJbx_6YXiSECsuModQiwQ3au_ocLjoyp/s513/80293559_1233774050157004_3631229178994491392_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="513" data-original-width="474" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNchrd4FAe5u3ZKTKUktsPWq3Nwbut6c11VMxNomLkKGmMgRFR4BN594eZCJr7iAXNKyRbzfhZzDiNSfMjH4wx5pCQsuedMn_my5c_v2u3oX3Ct_005xkrA2d67TPBce5aPycXkdWtFKv2wc5C7SH8pRzJJbx_6YXiSECsuModQiwQ3au_ocLjoyp/s320/80293559_1233774050157004_3631229178994491392_n.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">December is a time when I think about Mary the Mother of Christ and all she went through. I reflect on her quiet submission and obedience to God's will for her life. I think about the beginning for baby Jesus and then the simple humble life he led. </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/AVvXsEirhSe8jx2j19AMZHBApHfHUPGAgMNsEvSUYx4F9rbMvoIuYZfM3Ul58CikZS_iMhM4QM8dGnXnFKATuc__rjEBaUQubEeMBwWAFgCPyUBFCnBdjwEcsLk47PFF5ve3pbqETvrr4RlB3o7DvgPT-zZyJ0G9FLzARxahXCWlkZaLLctBcwVPjdm8nKAf/s500/art_mary_pondering_howard_lyon.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="323" data-original-width="500" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhSe8jx2j19AMZHBApHfHUPGAgMNsEvSUYx4F9rbMvoIuYZfM3Ul58CikZS_iMhM4QM8dGnXnFKATuc__rjEBaUQubEeMBwWAFgCPyUBFCnBdjwEcsLk47PFF5ve3pbqETvrr4RlB3o7DvgPT-zZyJ0G9FLzARxahXCWlkZaLLctBcwVPjdm8nKAf/w400-h259/art_mary_pondering_howard_lyon.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Isn't it glorious? Isn't it just so lovely, that God had this all planned. What a joy to spend time reflecting on all this; how each person played their part, so that we can have this life in Christ now.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-F__RPUtjFLr2Kh72X6hWr1GLr5h7Ywfd1WcRyMP9t5eyb_UoFlRhzezFbx43ysQDmF5fFkC6yv-izXl6wdoql7PZOFPA33LW8gF4Uv2TYiICW6aBbuPrWTLuQryRy7xsyjO6XYgc9Uke5qbjNT1QpJEx_POt5lIQAWDGB_HCSY-sAUAdUc9C3Wz/s960/80652872_1231095793758163_8056006905123831808_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-F__RPUtjFLr2Kh72X6hWr1GLr5h7Ywfd1WcRyMP9t5eyb_UoFlRhzezFbx43ysQDmF5fFkC6yv-izXl6wdoql7PZOFPA33LW8gF4Uv2TYiICW6aBbuPrWTLuQryRy7xsyjO6XYgc9Uke5qbjNT1QpJEx_POt5lIQAWDGB_HCSY-sAUAdUc9C3Wz/w375-h400/80652872_1231095793758163_8056006905123831808_o.jpg" width="375" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0oUVF3ya7MBlHjKpp-MDbwWv6unc6UD_rtgSfFPuhWbClOgiiEYjqAOwT3Ji8z7gPfkQsLu_cTVsfcrCZX9lNmXLXyNDZCX6jcqvLy5CKp-ADFz8giQ9KLCiGjjOTMb3jE2kLGBxVppy0MDXXJzOpMg9X-Jh1e1LWTb25eAoGp__dRPI2XNsGvcE/s960/75224755_1229066743961068_8665350657189871616_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0oUVF3ya7MBlHjKpp-MDbwWv6unc6UD_rtgSfFPuhWbClOgiiEYjqAOwT3Ji8z7gPfkQsLu_cTVsfcrCZX9lNmXLXyNDZCX6jcqvLy5CKp-ADFz8giQ9KLCiGjjOTMb3jE2kLGBxVppy0MDXXJzOpMg9X-Jh1e1LWTb25eAoGp__dRPI2XNsGvcE/w400-h400/75224755_1229066743961068_8665350657189871616_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5QYsfcgwkSOl0FH3h7_4jiXcR4O3Iy2udEMTYjUo8I3pZU26AOpUGtLHIkR0LrmPzrOCeUmi-5nhjPZRq7zo5EqOXg8qAT-hKntQIk-ujcxTZ_1-FlsxfPR5yBclF7vhOLed2lLFw25P-wiG3cEGXKAZgQTBhHOJ8O3fZ0CmpTBGoJYGvUUgWhQA/s795/79235850_1227232370811172_4649605120747634688_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="795" data-original-width="596" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5QYsfcgwkSOl0FH3h7_4jiXcR4O3Iy2udEMTYjUo8I3pZU26AOpUGtLHIkR0LrmPzrOCeUmi-5nhjPZRq7zo5EqOXg8qAT-hKntQIk-ujcxTZ_1-FlsxfPR5yBclF7vhOLed2lLFw25P-wiG3cEGXKAZgQTBhHOJ8O3fZ0CmpTBGoJYGvUUgWhQA/w300-h400/79235850_1227232370811172_4649605120747634688_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you friends for visiting my blog; your kind comments have been like gifts to me this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't know if I will get a chance to write anymore words here this year, but I may :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I pray you all have a blessed, Merry Christmas, that you will get to be with</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">family, and that you will know the joy and true meaning of Christmas</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Much love ~ Linda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">He Heals Us</span></h2><p style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Advent leads up to a birthday. At Christmas we celebrate him who said he came to free the oppressed and the imprisoned, to heal suffering hearts, and to stand by the forgotten: Jesus Christ. He showed us that God is not somewhere far off, but close to us, like a person who has come to visit us. Like a brother who lives and suffers with us. Like someone who loves us.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><em><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">by Jörg Zink</span></em></p></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/AVvXsEg9V-RTKMaWTuJCr2EGT9K5zJ7lHlmGNSCLhB-ZTGbQ0B5-MkiZC_jU3MQRZuzmhG0MUHore_DKbPu-cOMnKbulhCKfOPGRGYKQilAP5sryonondmaujA3U3UsCObpcFRya2UpDtRL49ZsMMx7SINI_j5DW5A1zV3KTlSsPARaU6f_tOZ2ghXo7JthW/s854/6946cffe106003c3afd15f725cc2c46e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="563" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9V-RTKMaWTuJCr2EGT9K5zJ7lHlmGNSCLhB-ZTGbQ0B5-MkiZC_jU3MQRZuzmhG0MUHore_DKbPu-cOMnKbulhCKfOPGRGYKQilAP5sryonondmaujA3U3UsCObpcFRya2UpDtRL49ZsMMx7SINI_j5DW5A1zV3KTlSsPARaU6f_tOZ2ghXo7JthW/w264-h400/6946cffe106003c3afd15f725cc2c46e.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSG0F0u_MUpE-H6pnhHp6nNrYQSmGD72NK12Xl2vxClzc8x7dBY83BZftXJNlvxSnCvXhlTliZgQnPjTIpIFqn8znjrjqcGO8HDbYwY96uX5BYAeNp29Eb9NFeJ5aNNdmAjFHR521flXT_CBs0zP37u8rq8JPW_ARVDopCS4xV4unHc3T2V_5nhXFh/s640/4f8f219eb04b831c27a19030370e99c1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="401" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSG0F0u_MUpE-H6pnhHp6nNrYQSmGD72NK12Xl2vxClzc8x7dBY83BZftXJNlvxSnCvXhlTliZgQnPjTIpIFqn8znjrjqcGO8HDbYwY96uX5BYAeNp29Eb9NFeJ5aNNdmAjFHR521flXT_CBs0zP37u8rq8JPW_ARVDopCS4xV4unHc3T2V_5nhXFh/w402-h640/4f8f219eb04b831c27a19030370e99c1.jpg" width="402" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1LiuUa3uDP_C6WO32qaCFL9rrx9p-_7CtE0hI2NvXJKZBx877BLJgz6AMbjEtG8lH3F0Q0aEKJ-BTyK61fRJUAg3Tpvz6PLY24zN2g2GE8QBZOBGpShvbOmJ2_YooQ5cg98UzNpbzJEVtGNOkP-83c961LdBQ0oaA3sF2BZLtZjM_DQZIefDXMA4/s600/6379bf05ebc3866fabfb77b335c20c38.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1LiuUa3uDP_C6WO32qaCFL9rrx9p-_7CtE0hI2NvXJKZBx877BLJgz6AMbjEtG8lH3F0Q0aEKJ-BTyK61fRJUAg3Tpvz6PLY24zN2g2GE8QBZOBGpShvbOmJ2_YooQ5cg98UzNpbzJEVtGNOkP-83c961LdBQ0oaA3sF2BZLtZjM_DQZIefDXMA4/w426-h640/6379bf05ebc3866fabfb77b335c20c38.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHMXLUnFSYWOa1gwDa0ohj9qb1EsbaLhotxKT48HE_L7oKPN4U-41d4_4pf5F31-8NRojDfmwMRWrQguxd7V_V2uD9fVaYzBAydyomYlCEGHA6F48W-aI0wCTAOWpXmNPF3JsZVjygE6XN6X5TcePos3i_MSd15-sbAl1qKijFQnoIrZ5lHRgQwd9/s598/febe77891ba5e06ed865721a70bca7ff.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="457" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHMXLUnFSYWOa1gwDa0ohj9qb1EsbaLhotxKT48HE_L7oKPN4U-41d4_4pf5F31-8NRojDfmwMRWrQguxd7V_V2uD9fVaYzBAydyomYlCEGHA6F48W-aI0wCTAOWpXmNPF3JsZVjygE6XN6X5TcePos3i_MSd15-sbAl1qKijFQnoIrZ5lHRgQwd9/w490-h640/febe77891ba5e06ed865721a70bca7ff.jpg" width="490" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-17025194336359701222022-11-24T12:32:00.003-08:002022-11-24T13:29:24.013-08:00Captured<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9xAHZlYMUTr5wsMwrTdmCM-BjNJj_9pUB5xVlAl-pQl6UC6ArPRk-VzIvQnGXvHgsyMH3rALi0fSGg2fpaT_dNCGPp5A7-3gSiRE7IEMLeL66xxv4PY2Bwmh9_JKHHQINohAzYk3Y0FRPvJJMbMZSnIvOY3gwQWKT8Qa_jgoLVLsSUdlBA5eVpgC/s710/5f18feb5ac87c43171bf2b63bce201c3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="474" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9xAHZlYMUTr5wsMwrTdmCM-BjNJj_9pUB5xVlAl-pQl6UC6ArPRk-VzIvQnGXvHgsyMH3rALi0fSGg2fpaT_dNCGPp5A7-3gSiRE7IEMLeL66xxv4PY2Bwmh9_JKHHQINohAzYk3Y0FRPvJJMbMZSnIvOY3gwQWKT8Qa_jgoLVLsSUdlBA5eVpgC/w268-h400/5f18feb5ac87c43171bf2b63bce201c3.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello dear friends and quiet followers,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's a new week and I have more to say..so here I go again...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes I had another revelation of sorts. Over the last couple of years I have felt the Lord speaking to my heart; encouraging me to let go of things...my busy life...to slow down...to re-focus...re-prioritize.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's taken a lot of work, internal and external. I've asked myself these questions, why would God want me to slow down? Why would God want any of us to slow down?</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/AVvXsEhNH3PhMwA81KOBOraYx2rxq44maWcisGZviAitiPtmxEVmST7jRA0gWUqIL8sUqrDzYfQFN0AcIqh0iNPrZ-DsG42Ml5gnmVZFjR4ktW1EXQ1YpyKRBgMrJK7ACzDSAokUbqoKhLCFJdctKcwnTWlO_2VCJo51gl7X1tPEl6pdCrdBkyyPRiDPxNLP/s960/80853745_1240789919455417_5115763210149953536_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNH3PhMwA81KOBOraYx2rxq44maWcisGZviAitiPtmxEVmST7jRA0gWUqIL8sUqrDzYfQFN0AcIqh0iNPrZ-DsG42Ml5gnmVZFjR4ktW1EXQ1YpyKRBgMrJK7ACzDSAokUbqoKhLCFJdctKcwnTWlO_2VCJo51gl7X1tPEl6pdCrdBkyyPRiDPxNLP/w320-h400/80853745_1240789919455417_5115763210149953536_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The 'slower' our days are, the more peaceful we are. We're not rushed, not overly stressed and can think more clearly. We need a calm mind to be able to hear from the Lord well. We need inner peace to focus on the Lord; to go through our day speaking to Him and more importantly listening to Him. In our roles as Mothers, Wives, Sisters and Friends, the closer we are to the Lord, the more we have to impart to others, to help them in their daily lives. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We live in a media driven world, our phones are never far away. and many of us have multiple social media accounts. But why do we feel we need this level of interaction with the world? Once people only received news via a newspaper, or through a letter from a family member or friend and that was all. </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/AVvXsEjpZOhM53KOelVQKaaeadv4hXHleGsNsk85QgWXg0hMdiNzeQjHC7HVMiBKSxVVeqksDsmxC9KeJ0IyS5jbDNpQcnaTljLkq1yk2DP5WWr7MRje1JiJNJNz0LQDv9vDisUx7oOSCL-dOh35Y6ZZt3r8elPK1TSg4kUtBoSOp6oS2JGIx53qIbsPAP2i/s960/81353022_1246031312264611_1486272243074859008_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZOhM53KOelVQKaaeadv4hXHleGsNsk85QgWXg0hMdiNzeQjHC7HVMiBKSxVVeqksDsmxC9KeJ0IyS5jbDNpQcnaTljLkq1yk2DP5WWr7MRje1JiJNJNz0LQDv9vDisUx7oOSCL-dOh35Y6ZZt3r8elPK1TSg4kUtBoSOp6oS2JGIx53qIbsPAP2i/w400-h400/81353022_1246031312264611_1486272243074859008_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>We wouldn't necessarily know about everything going on in the world. We didn't normally hear about every catastrophe, every war, every misfortune, every scandal. We didn't, and we don't need to. I believe it overtaxes our nervous system. Well I can only speak for myself and it does do this to me. Many many years back I felt the Lord say to get rid of the television in our home. I called it the 'uninvited guest', bringing all it's horrors and ungodliness into the home (even adverts). So we did. But I think we just replaced it with the computer. Still there is more control this way and we are very particular about what we watch.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9-CToRDpF6ZqiOoh-SbyGzaYgMqCCOM18UGSN23E5204teYaVKqcRhd4ID_ebNJJaOEikytGUslvTOc-WDrlERviveL5gEt5sIhXBYWaoSO9QJdCfGN68Lh_Envpqej91EZI7QL22fHwqmwqkcV9X57N3FDRrce0eNBFEoMhwmnMbfEvq56ldHP8/s902/83088195_1260321167502292_2326142858605625344_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="902" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9-CToRDpF6ZqiOoh-SbyGzaYgMqCCOM18UGSN23E5204teYaVKqcRhd4ID_ebNJJaOEikytGUslvTOc-WDrlERviveL5gEt5sIhXBYWaoSO9QJdCfGN68Lh_Envpqej91EZI7QL22fHwqmwqkcV9X57N3FDRrce0eNBFEoMhwmnMbfEvq56ldHP8/w400-h299/83088195_1260321167502292_2326142858605625344_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Still, for me, I want my life to be closer to the Lord. I want Him to have my whole heart. I want to hear from Him and encourage others to do the same. Slowing down has helped greatly with this,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our world today is filled with doom and gloom. People are running around like 'Chicken Lickin' thinking the sky is falling down. And while we are living in uncertain times; this is nothing new. People have lived through a lot worse than what we are currently experiencing. So what do we do?</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/AVvXsEhOJdm_Frmanrac9keef3d9ZkFMIUXUQoYPb0KALrfIKgAzqTr2P3SUVJue5q_2or-jlvlMVx_6nlmsINuwMpCQaOXRC6behtsmrHRksheIpJjN9jbVbkJZXxNE2lhniCiI9eYBTx8JaDhJn3qTTINCciTjD_W7PWT_nCB0yMPxBVsOceZ8PFmwFU4D/s640/0ebe6b55a6fa00bd91897f1abbc40ce4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="640" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJdm_Frmanrac9keef3d9ZkFMIUXUQoYPb0KALrfIKgAzqTr2P3SUVJue5q_2or-jlvlMVx_6nlmsINuwMpCQaOXRC6behtsmrHRksheIpJjN9jbVbkJZXxNE2lhniCiI9eYBTx8JaDhJn3qTTINCciTjD_W7PWT_nCB0yMPxBVsOceZ8PFmwFU4D/w400-h279/0ebe6b55a6fa00bd91897f1abbc40ce4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Personally I have always strived to keep a large pantry. This serves us well, because if we need to save for something unexpected (like roof repairs), then I can just cut back on my grocery expenditure so we can save some of the food money, and instead of purchasing more groceries we just eat from the pantry and freezers. I didn't go and get a big grocery shop for a month just recently and we managed just fine. I just purchased fruit and milk. We also, as you know have a large vegetable garden and many fruit trees. This all helps. I believe in that old adage: 'God helps those, who help themselves'. He expects us to do our part. Although !!! having said this, I know a lot of people are just living week to week and find it very hard, if not nearly impossible to buy anything extra. So I'm talking just a bag of pinto beans, an extra can of green beans, a bag of rice etc...just as you can...in a simple way. We don't need to be obsessed by the current situation; just make a little plan and work away at it. Ultimately God is our provider and our trust is in Him.</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/AVvXsEg4aM1kpSCsh8IwuwiCahXI1BpO_tHjVoZctDztV1eLQ2do4hN13jmAD3nMoz8k-KaZHkUSktmcCxLS1wetx3dNCCZdGO2QxM1bd4Zlo5FTwr1mxL84fLQQ3n8Qjb6pIIebtZDT9gaOiWt-gdoGjmQ28H-G6j_RWXbFCYgIe2obD1LDsz7W9BJiyRWW/s500/L07132-61-lr-1.jpg.thumb.500.500.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aM1kpSCsh8IwuwiCahXI1BpO_tHjVoZctDztV1eLQ2do4hN13jmAD3nMoz8k-KaZHkUSktmcCxLS1wetx3dNCCZdGO2QxM1bd4Zlo5FTwr1mxL84fLQQ3n8Qjb6pIIebtZDT9gaOiWt-gdoGjmQ28H-G6j_RWXbFCYgIe2obD1LDsz7W9BJiyRWW/w400-h400/L07132-61-lr-1.jpg.thumb.500.500.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I read my bible, I see that hard times are just part of life. God doesn't promise us an easy life, He just assures us that He will never leave us. This scripture spoke to me this week: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Habakkuk 3: 17 -18</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="text Hab-3-17" id="en-NIV-22786" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;">Though the fig tree does not bud</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Hab-3-17" style="position: relative;">and there are no grapes on the vines,</span></span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="text Hab-3-17" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;">though the olive crop fails</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Hab-3-17" style="position: relative;">and the fields produce no food,</span></span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="text Hab-3-17" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;">though there are no sheep in the pen</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Hab-3-17" style="position: relative;">and no cattle in the stalls,</span></span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="text Hab-3-18" id="en-NIV-22787" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; font-size: 1.2rem; font-weight: 700; left: -4.4em; line-height: normal; position: absolute; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;"> </span>yet I will rejoice in the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Hab-3-18" style="position: relative;">I will be joyful in God my Savior.</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Hab-3-18" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; text-align: start;">This verse reminds me that no matter what is happening in the world, or in my own life, whether it be good times or bad, I am to trust in the Lord, and let Him give me peace and be my anchor. If we have spent our life 'having oil in our lamp', being prepared for the Lord, giving Him our all, and our whole heart then we will be prepared for whatever comes in life. We don't need to go into a panic. Yes we should be informed and not bury our head in the sand, but if we take time for the Lord and let Him lead us, He will speak to you and help us in our time of need.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; text-align: start;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPl8WutMqyeFnCVLshJ69I8stdqMG46PW38rkqjLCw9hkxkWCg3eKjjQcNUlQtPEK2ChQoMJCiH7Vjq6YxHUwTg1zLa11URH0p0aDkanETLlGGYK7dsbNM2Yg6WRB_xu0PnNttU0LpqU5CPLYotkLnqRTeE-Ki_lx_2cAISRhK6C1CNhUNfutCD3a/s750/0259f78a61a46e997f8811a3bc9d572d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPl8WutMqyeFnCVLshJ69I8stdqMG46PW38rkqjLCw9hkxkWCg3eKjjQcNUlQtPEK2ChQoMJCiH7Vjq6YxHUwTg1zLa11URH0p0aDkanETLlGGYK7dsbNM2Yg6WRB_xu0PnNttU0LpqU5CPLYotkLnqRTeE-Ki_lx_2cAISRhK6C1CNhUNfutCD3a/w266-h400/0259f78a61a46e997f8811a3bc9d572d.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I believe one of the reasons the Lord has called me 'away' from the world, is for this very reason; so I can write, so I can encourage others to spend their lives focused on the Lord, developing a deep relationship with Him, so they will be prepared internally and externally for whatever may be coming next. Yet, we do not fear - we just trust and let Him lead.</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/AVvXsEiCdWeQGuLBPM4td1lJ2q0UeiHAtI3ojUjnouPMRyjIZF_7XGjsrhE3On2idwWxPKNu_Nn3P-v4ud-NR0hjJ3eLEsvzBC6DJ5mhZ7PkD6pa5We0O8ehprXo2F72DEWD7wSQiMPKGyUoyF2MU-IeFGHk966FsNxpM-C3LKvkPJR10hUBNR47SUggOMJz/s667/83636661_1266736600194082_8687667131166228480_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="464" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdWeQGuLBPM4td1lJ2q0UeiHAtI3ojUjnouPMRyjIZF_7XGjsrhE3On2idwWxPKNu_Nn3P-v4ud-NR0hjJ3eLEsvzBC6DJ5mhZ7PkD6pa5We0O8ehprXo2F72DEWD7wSQiMPKGyUoyF2MU-IeFGHk966FsNxpM-C3LKvkPJR10hUBNR47SUggOMJz/w279-h400/83636661_1266736600194082_8687667131166228480_n.jpg" width="279" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is what he laid on my heart just yesterday morning. I will close with it and pray you all are encouraged by it. Have a blessed week ~ Linda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">God gives the power and the strength</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">that is needed for each new day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If we are wise we will walk in</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">that strength and not in our own.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If we are wise and attentive to the Holy Spirit</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">we will let Him lead us, we will listen</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">for His voice and gentle guidance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If we are wise, we will tread lightly on this earth,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and hold onto what we own loosely,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">as this world is not our eternal home,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and we take nothing with us when we leave,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but the spiritual acts of love we showed to others.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That in deed will go before us, and will be</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">stored up as treasures in heaven.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">O that we would walk hand in hand </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">with Him each day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lord set our eyes and hearts on</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">what is eternal and pleasing to you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Amen</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~</div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IlE2FugJDn8wPRJjKftC3JURuQnS2pwXSK10g2Y-sK6jLekzzUIu3wNF6IdpBjnB4eiyABjfWbzjH9JnctAg5Y6xPz8JNiO6ypLnuuuLFpT1DwqBSG6c8W-kL44gG0uXDhUtZUqY5B63KVZZ9ze24EN1IZarPRQKMfYEPRhOpUOrj1-jx5CtMTMm/s600/50859d7b6a6e364819d6f67c6d91e7f5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="449" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IlE2FugJDn8wPRJjKftC3JURuQnS2pwXSK10g2Y-sK6jLekzzUIu3wNF6IdpBjnB4eiyABjfWbzjH9JnctAg5Y6xPz8JNiO6ypLnuuuLFpT1DwqBSG6c8W-kL44gG0uXDhUtZUqY5B63KVZZ9ze24EN1IZarPRQKMfYEPRhOpUOrj1-jx5CtMTMm/w299-h400/50859d7b6a6e364819d6f67c6d91e7f5.jpg" width="299" /></a></div><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-2946340315027653082022-11-16T12:52:00.002-08:002022-11-16T12:52:21.363-08:00The Unseen is Eternal<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLoTVwjdpBaOr8SW5DLr8tNiXiQhvomaZ9qLhmwgXy21gnDq3D1KHxpAfDcmKdmMfU1yMHvwPQknLE2gGmKBweydz9sjFVP5XkGH6eU8zJ-xa1A4UUWg5xB56k7d9kDPT8Kk-fzibBntlOKh0bzXWvciVBxnNiOQhCoRz9FBfHHcZJJsPOwoA4OJW/s901/4d451d97504472ce92d31c0579bc277d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="736" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLoTVwjdpBaOr8SW5DLr8tNiXiQhvomaZ9qLhmwgXy21gnDq3D1KHxpAfDcmKdmMfU1yMHvwPQknLE2gGmKBweydz9sjFVP5XkGH6eU8zJ-xa1A4UUWg5xB56k7d9kDPT8Kk-fzibBntlOKh0bzXWvciVBxnNiOQhCoRz9FBfHHcZJJsPOwoA4OJW/w302-h370/4d451d97504472ce92d31c0579bc277d.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><p>Hello dear friends,</p><p>This morning as I was having my morning devotions, these thoughts were strongly on my heart, and I wanted to share them, in the hope that they will encourage someone.</p><p>As many of you know I don't have very good health. I have asthma and it affects me in a way that makes me very sensitive to so many things: pollen, cold air, damp air, rain, humidity etc. Humidity is one of the worst, it sucks the life out of me and leaves me completely exhausted. My body is like a barometer. I know by how I feel what the weather is doing or going to do. The worst thing about it is that apart from dark circles around my eyes, nothing is really visible to show I am unwell. It has caused me so much difficulty in my life. I've had to cancel many things and are often unable to attend various commitments as I feel so weak, exhausted and hard to breathe.....BUT.... :) I had a little revelation this morning. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicn12q971xUIPChEZ7paf4cL3v82MH1OOXuSuG6bUc8EnBOmaHbR1QV0VqsAfEaKvcgcKGB_tT8Dg15XCVda2B4B5snTzzmE3EIeIGQdtFTGe6MvpeVPsVXMjfKPYGsxCMhBa4OqjX4TMaqTAaji-UuHb3hIayH1GRZEnL9DF20TwUOQxHFRwzEVN-/s400/6c10af8e488e5a2a0df351fdc19b11ff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicn12q971xUIPChEZ7paf4cL3v82MH1OOXuSuG6bUc8EnBOmaHbR1QV0VqsAfEaKvcgcKGB_tT8Dg15XCVda2B4B5snTzzmE3EIeIGQdtFTGe6MvpeVPsVXMjfKPYGsxCMhBa4OqjX4TMaqTAaji-UuHb3hIayH1GRZEnL9DF20TwUOQxHFRwzEVN-/w400-h300/6c10af8e488e5a2a0df351fdc19b11ff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...I realised that this 'health' situation at least keeps me very close to Jesus. Because of it I am constantly in prayer asking the Holy Spirit for strength to get me through the day. On days when my health is better, do I seek Him as much? possibly not..which saddens me. Some days I surrender to the situation and just have to lay in bed, but most of the time I do try to press on and at least do my housework and cook a meal. For those with similar health problems, please know that I understand. Our confidence has to be in God and not in what others think of us, especially when we often have to let people down because of our health.</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/AVvXsEhcmVQz1qa1SmtwDSxyJ9_KZ4qpiziZlx0x9_ZCCzoD2k3BpbVgRbodj51kSH9Ij_O8gPe4Qo2WB8N62LtaeDKDZ8uwCUxEiknxrFmDOxwDiE1V4faO60hlz9gVh7KrFLZ-OqHrR4NhPZr1qV_nhbDz_pEfxMStMZyCbJJ5CcuRiE7ZNTDsrn_T6g-p/s842/_MG_2459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="842" data-original-width="722" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmVQz1qa1SmtwDSxyJ9_KZ4qpiziZlx0x9_ZCCzoD2k3BpbVgRbodj51kSH9Ij_O8gPe4Qo2WB8N62LtaeDKDZ8uwCUxEiknxrFmDOxwDiE1V4faO60hlz9gVh7KrFLZ-OqHrR4NhPZr1qV_nhbDz_pEfxMStMZyCbJJ5CcuRiE7ZNTDsrn_T6g-p/w343-h400/_MG_2459.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have cried out to the Lord so many times to heal me and I am not healed yet...but I still press on. So I have to look at life in a different way. I ask myself these questions. How do I live my life as a person with bad health? Is it my 'thorn in the flesh', and something I will have to bear and go through my life with? How can I still serve God and bring him glory within these limitations? How do I continue to keep up with my home and garden and be a loving wife?</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/AVvXsEhQZ7iyNDyC217ZaWlLxGOk7gtOlh7wohGP5B9T_zuCSGpqiffD5DhwyR_SfLE9e91wPiohXjvHsl8tPVR1LhSl6WV_j5ksjlSMYMqVO-9EPkN2eIS0TEs0tLIw0uaJLaORnwcU7-b1KXPJRYvTQ7MplFhKh4moB0FlIGwfZasbjgH3VK2iiKKtnfIF/s740/6871ba8d930b0f161aee7b70c7caf312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ7iyNDyC217ZaWlLxGOk7gtOlh7wohGP5B9T_zuCSGpqiffD5DhwyR_SfLE9e91wPiohXjvHsl8tPVR1LhSl6WV_j5ksjlSMYMqVO-9EPkN2eIS0TEs0tLIw0uaJLaORnwcU7-b1KXPJRYvTQ7MplFhKh4moB0FlIGwfZasbjgH3VK2iiKKtnfIF/w398-h400/6871ba8d930b0f161aee7b70c7caf312.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You'll be pleased to know I've come up with some answers, or the Holy Spirit helped me :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">HOW TO MAKE IT THROUGH LIFE:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. I have simplified my life to do only what I know I can realistically achieve. I've had to let go of some things (which was hard), but in the long run its for the best. This isn't to say I don't challenge myself, because I do, but generally these things apply. I help my daughter with the children, but now I am doing less days. I have cut back on many many products that I used to make for my online soap business, to almost only making soap. It is what it is. I am too tired of trying to keep up. It just strips me of my peace and joy. Don't try to keep up, just do what you can and be happy about that. eg.Yeh!!! I got the vacuuming done...some days that might be my one achievement.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. I have more realistic expectations. I know my garden is never going to be completely weed free. We have a huge garden and often I can't even get out there because of the weather. It's just how it is. I know there are times when my house will not be spotless, well quite often actually. If I'm unwell, I need to rest. I do what I can...and the rest will wait.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. I know I will let people down and disappoint people. It's happened a lot. But that's really out of my control. I have to accept my lot in life and enjoy my life even so. I suggest building yourself up in your faith, trusting and being confident in the fact that God loves you. He knows your heart and he cares. He will never leave you. He is merciful, gracious and always there for you to talk to. He understands like no-one else. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. When you have a good day, don't try to do everything......don't ask me why I say this :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Don't feel bad or think there is something wrong with you because God hasn't chosen to heal you. If your in one of those religions that think this way, then leave, or don't listen to them. God choses not to heal lots of people. It's true. It happens all the time. Just look around you. Be one of those people that presses in deeper regardless :) Rise above it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Finally - this world is not my home. When I leave this mortal coil, I will have to give an account for my life. I don't want to stand before the Lord and be ashamed. I want to know and believe in my heart that I did the best I could, that I relied on Him for strength, that He was Lord of my Life and no-one else. The very fact my health is bad makes me press into Him and rely on Him for strength. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Do His will in whatever way you can. Share His love in every way you can. Be His voice and His arms. There are a myriad of ways we can still serve in this life, even when we're limited physically. I find simply blogging a way to encourage others and be encouraged at the same time :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</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/AVvXsEh6QGUab3_RZuushECrlRtwKaJ9P02rJ26euI7Uu1OvuGQxgurUjTJhTsb5u6ZQNnwwQznqLpbYdk2HdpKlVzt98zaDf2twzwUyoW5ZHV0LK7LEJ4CvcYd2Lrt6pbtsNkE5IygRXk4m7QorlGUmU7Etxv5kZA04r1BCPGQxLCfPHsuLF_jD8TuyfjNQ/s960/81596337_1248075542060188_3185612827247247360_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="741" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QGUab3_RZuushECrlRtwKaJ9P02rJ26euI7Uu1OvuGQxgurUjTJhTsb5u6ZQNnwwQznqLpbYdk2HdpKlVzt98zaDf2twzwUyoW5ZHV0LK7LEJ4CvcYd2Lrt6pbtsNkE5IygRXk4m7QorlGUmU7Etxv5kZA04r1BCPGQxLCfPHsuLF_jD8TuyfjNQ/w309-h400/81596337_1248075542060188_3185612827247247360_o.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This post was titled 'The Unseen is Eternal' and knowing this encourages me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 Corinthians 16 - 18 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Corinthians 13: 12</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">then we shall see face to face.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now I know in part; then I shall know fully,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">even as I am fully known.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Psalm 73: 23 - 24</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yet I am always with you,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">you hold e by my right hand. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You guide me with your counsel,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and afterward you will take</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">me into glory.</div><div><br /></div>I do pray this writing will encourage someone. It was a revelation to my heart this morning that even though my health isn't always good, this very thing causes me to seek the Lord for strength. Maybe I knew that before but sort of forgot. For that alone I am very thankful...that I don't charge through life in my own strength. Be blessed and know that God loves you. ~ Linda<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-14303023701552331102022-11-16T11:05:00.002-08:002022-11-16T11:05:25.038-08:00Seasons<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchz_EQUrzxxXL2dCFQoH6wkVdILtZKtimVCIXoN46aHb6M7r55tnvcqKVNIU-9QGOwYLVEGDs15hwq-yIwBQDpkCKdGAlIlEFIxcQWWoKAxkrjV7UJSgmOvk1v_n740m_zDvGrlXyaDhzzv706oQrnAZBiXFdG_7UHi8W2cppRQZRxjdpueUHT2rW/s679/36da24bcf77c3cb05eac62ccb445148c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchz_EQUrzxxXL2dCFQoH6wkVdILtZKtimVCIXoN46aHb6M7r55tnvcqKVNIU-9QGOwYLVEGDs15hwq-yIwBQDpkCKdGAlIlEFIxcQWWoKAxkrjV7UJSgmOvk1v_n740m_zDvGrlXyaDhzzv706oQrnAZBiXFdG_7UHi8W2cppRQZRxjdpueUHT2rW/w333-h400/36da24bcf77c3cb05eac62ccb445148c.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Hello dear friends, I'm sorry I have been so long absent from my blog, it wasn't intentional...but here I am at last. I am however reasonably active on Instagram if you want to follow me there too: _thelittlehomestead_ . I personally find it upsetting when people just all of a sudden stop blogging, so I do apologise for that. I am still going about my life here at the Little Homestead, cooking, cleaning, gardening, loving, caring, doing all those things. </p><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">I do know what caused me to stop writing and what ruffled my feathers. We were going to sell this big old house and move onto some land at our daughters. That was the plan, but our house didn't sell, the market has dropped in our area and also since Covid the prices for timber, builders, and all trades people have almost doubled and the whole idea became very stressful and unrealistic for us....so we are staying here. </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: left;">The whole thing completely consumed me and I would go about my home with less enthusiasm, as I didn't think I would be here, so why plant the garden, why paint that little thing etc etc. It rattled me a lot, and I couldn't focus on tasks or plan properly. So for those simple reasons alone I'm glad it's over. We do love our home, so its not a sacrifice to stay here, but it was disappointing, as it was going to be a big adventure, and we would have been closer to some of our grandy's. Still some of them are still only 7 minutes down the road !! :) Now enough of all that, but at least it was an explanation.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXLVasuNTI37AdUKEbvImnU6fpviMzRUiEIdsCebK0e3xwCcgLFn-MwMLAcMNuM_zJcgSDlTZvthFg3r-WqNvfbnbYD3CiK6-Z7RJ8KUVcQBR1qj4IHWqdf-GQjiWeT9G4y2oqK-DWZeKFN0EXEerj_stJGi8HBV1sOASmX4-GLaAhH9JSwNF3K94/s4000/IMG_20220504_140815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXLVasuNTI37AdUKEbvImnU6fpviMzRUiEIdsCebK0e3xwCcgLFn-MwMLAcMNuM_zJcgSDlTZvthFg3r-WqNvfbnbYD3CiK6-Z7RJ8KUVcQBR1qj4IHWqdf-GQjiWeT9G4y2oqK-DWZeKFN0EXEerj_stJGi8HBV1sOASmX4-GLaAhH9JSwNF3K94/w400-h300/IMG_20220504_140815.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</p><p>Here at home the garden is looking lovely. The Japanese Cherry Blossoms out the front of the property looked spectacular this Spring and as their blossoms are finishing off, they leave this pretty carpet all over the grass. It truly brings me joy. We planted nearly all the trees on our property, so now we get to reap the rewards of their beauty and also many of our trees bear fruit as well. Hard work always pays off.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRWhcUvc602wAfkniMxlwRkp5Xq7atjVANqSTJXsKzJHJaSHV36JBDYguJyCcdVDCmk94fSD8WBpZy4raK3keKhQ0aeJ1zSynIQS6OysgHOkNqUv7iutytQitaYzbk6uxCeDVDETiaK-qlRJ6EJRNajpPuKCy0osC0fN4zj3cLnUeiU1Khms1TlzJ/s3682/IMG_20221103_123343.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3682" data-original-width="2701" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRWhcUvc602wAfkniMxlwRkp5Xq7atjVANqSTJXsKzJHJaSHV36JBDYguJyCcdVDCmk94fSD8WBpZy4raK3keKhQ0aeJ1zSynIQS6OysgHOkNqUv7iutytQitaYzbk6uxCeDVDETiaK-qlRJ6EJRNajpPuKCy0osC0fN4zj3cLnUeiU1Khms1TlzJ/w470-h640/IMG_20221103_123343.jpg" width="470" /></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;">We've planted the summer vegetable garden: Tomatoes, Cucumber, Zucchini, Beans, Pumpkin, Potatoes, Peppers...all the normal things :) Last summer the garden did so well, so we will pray for the same again....anyway I have another blog idea, well something on my heart I want to share, so I will wind this little one up for now and get on with that. Love to you all ~ Linda</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/AVvXsEg4PWPZFu0-_ZgyZJShdrztibNVO1m1LDxCEx8OzqEfMEj4l-1VnqZvDSsuVNyr2xT4li0vqFVOQOt4t9WTj0vVHod6lEKVqkS_DHhNqfdebwWajVS2TllqDt7_mfoAK02qcghVSoR7fO0ySUsUzxSBZK1q19KTOe4mm_IUo9ljqnSZ0JS7IY-qneeE/s768/d1b1a821eff6a725287f0fb1ee0e4942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="579" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PWPZFu0-_ZgyZJShdrztibNVO1m1LDxCEx8OzqEfMEj4l-1VnqZvDSsuVNyr2xT4li0vqFVOQOt4t9WTj0vVHod6lEKVqkS_DHhNqfdebwWajVS2TllqDt7_mfoAK02qcghVSoR7fO0ySUsUzxSBZK1q19KTOe4mm_IUo9ljqnSZ0JS7IY-qneeE/w301-h400/d1b1a821eff6a725287f0fb1ee0e4942.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></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: center;"><br /></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: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><p><br /></p><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-31135331678403035462022-03-17T00:21:00.003-07:002022-03-17T00:23:52.500-07:00Living Simply<p> Hello friends,</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzI3GnqR94ZsQF7i9juJaYHSvAqGOEDPv0nYoC9CLwW1zcMpXT3mJDIgYnoUtKF15KTmTM_5vURNg7evn9gAwjXV0Zch_QSpFHYfYMHdW91SBMQI60ahHj9Vrn00VDgEG8Xyg2MqOsLL1ggAjIKPNxoDoMWQIGWu8GJknYHylbAIVGYlrrr8zItBQN=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzI3GnqR94ZsQF7i9juJaYHSvAqGOEDPv0nYoC9CLwW1zcMpXT3mJDIgYnoUtKF15KTmTM_5vURNg7evn9gAwjXV0Zch_QSpFHYfYMHdW91SBMQI60ahHj9Vrn00VDgEG8Xyg2MqOsLL1ggAjIKPNxoDoMWQIGWu8GJknYHylbAIVGYlrrr8zItBQN=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I just wanted to pop in here quick and share a couple of 'frugal living' things with you a recipe & an idea. These days most people are being a bit more mindful about spending and looking for ways to cut costs. Like many people I spent many years having to live this way out of necessity, especially when the children were small. Now life is easier but I still enjoy being a good steward of what God has blessed us with, and like looking for creative ways to do that.</p><p>First up: the recipe 'Pillowy Potato Bread' - oh my word this bread is so good. It was fairly easy to make and I used our garden potatoes and that made it even better and cheaper. We ate a slice each with our dinner tonight and will have it for sandwiches for the next couple of days. The texture was simply divine, very soft and delicious. I made two loaves because if I'm turning that big oven on I may as well make it count and use the power wisely. The only changes I made were I didn't have regular yeast, only instant - so I used 2 teaspoons of that instead per loaf. I also added 1 T of light olive oil to each loaf and added a little oil to the bowl that the loaves were rising in. Here's a link to the ladies recipe and blog: https://www.attainable-sustainable.net/homemade-potato-bread-recipe/</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjan0HraFTD-yXus-Cx6FrZr0mhBWL49MqXYooNyWiMu6xFN-LNAutBmqjnP1YSC8XsubiPBe5Vwwqxnv_qsMtR-_56y3Ubabzs0tkeKCtpF_Uy4HBgHXrADQ9GW_tYaKFlyPCZ6iEtxSZC9I3FxBbUWkRG-9yJjm90yjcTU1Ir22vxUwtIqlKVE5cU=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjan0HraFTD-yXus-Cx6FrZr0mhBWL49MqXYooNyWiMu6xFN-LNAutBmqjnP1YSC8XsubiPBe5Vwwqxnv_qsMtR-_56y3Ubabzs0tkeKCtpF_Uy4HBgHXrADQ9GW_tYaKFlyPCZ6iEtxSZC9I3FxBbUWkRG-9yJjm90yjcTU1Ir22vxUwtIqlKVE5cU=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmi3HBfv3U0nt2ng85qoufMi9EopAWDndjrzHfyjHmj5d75E-zrp2lXT3qlKIu8ifyzeUuGpbm0mEWz4aBr-MftbYyWvB1cIquJlcM81HGKgUuw8Gqe4nFREe88YenXdaqnP06GMo-Ke7mxBMOp_87Fz4wrSX_tLhDG7vi2u5Z4H3MKoDopXLy1E-7=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmi3HBfv3U0nt2ng85qoufMi9EopAWDndjrzHfyjHmj5d75E-zrp2lXT3qlKIu8ifyzeUuGpbm0mEWz4aBr-MftbYyWvB1cIquJlcM81HGKgUuw8Gqe4nFREe88YenXdaqnP06GMo-Ke7mxBMOp_87Fz4wrSX_tLhDG7vi2u5Z4H3MKoDopXLy1E-7=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDJ6pDsUV_hSOC-W_DQP0gtYtEGoaswjYTgfS_B10GkIT82jai5kyzJ3fm6ejMmCyp9Jlj5NRjI-ewhXamZ2ArAvYCCt-OeQDSrcEjVG_v8qFrhHxQ98EZJQjOSsmrx1iB8PcXnwu74cinIzAfPm2A1BPqGG1ubi8uGLuTPjdOgcp65LjzNNu-5fof=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDJ6pDsUV_hSOC-W_DQP0gtYtEGoaswjYTgfS_B10GkIT82jai5kyzJ3fm6ejMmCyp9Jlj5NRjI-ewhXamZ2ArAvYCCt-OeQDSrcEjVG_v8qFrhHxQ98EZJQjOSsmrx1iB8PcXnwu74cinIzAfPm2A1BPqGG1ubi8uGLuTPjdOgcp65LjzNNu-5fof=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /></div><p>Next up - here's a little idea for homemade cloth napkins to save on purchasing paper serviettes.</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ C L O T H T A B L E N A P K I N S ~</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhooydTzGfWgzzxAhdVcbd6fi6xJaE6SebUD5Btu87FzZaAlRg5ibG0UaTIMkgOepogl83I8pemX35GjOlLhVXmXkWvshsXC_bGxKmz2orCimvRxXTPAOY9VcT5MX2S_gdG1auk6npq5qM3QZa1uonidxqF3fADHOCni1UA-0uoKGVh3DZfRldWDx9c=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhooydTzGfWgzzxAhdVcbd6fi6xJaE6SebUD5Btu87FzZaAlRg5ibG0UaTIMkgOepogl83I8pemX35GjOlLhVXmXkWvshsXC_bGxKmz2orCimvRxXTPAOY9VcT5MX2S_gdG1auk6npq5qM3QZa1uonidxqF3fADHOCni1UA-0uoKGVh3DZfRldWDx9c=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wait until tea towels/dish towels are on sale (normally at KMART). I cut them in half across the middle and hem them. They look good are lovely to use. I much prefer them to paper ones. Also cloth napkins are expensive in New Zealand and often come in shades I don't like or the material is synthetic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Pics of what I did:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8u1cOuw-cDeayhsqL-04QoysGJE_-XLiQ-0dyJLcO1wTI_CXI2j4ZstUva1LbGhrZ94tqxto0gqIee7TiEq-r3QcsELBe9aKPhzdka7O08w2y3mMoMoH3QFj5M0S_ypULKvVn-4FU55SB9URkB3NAKbeALVetphAPJ5nux31EFkdECAx-RzCmQtIm=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8u1cOuw-cDeayhsqL-04QoysGJE_-XLiQ-0dyJLcO1wTI_CXI2j4ZstUva1LbGhrZ94tqxto0gqIee7TiEq-r3QcsELBe9aKPhzdka7O08w2y3mMoMoH3QFj5M0S_ypULKvVn-4FU55SB9URkB3NAKbeALVetphAPJ5nux31EFkdECAx-RzCmQtIm=w270-h203" width="270" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixOfjHkIIIi4Zyme7q5I5884uP53isMXJEoKVVkjycubLdxuP6-3icOBDTbZ3TlYHsHj_8qSuGtxwFdjI3MOa5jJRg1TLeJJV6VYeJOqaHAwkrjUinTdKsZEBshLD2I9tfOqNec71h-ArC1Z8JQSXI0RdL6ErzVgdUKvzfkpwa7Lq_8-C0ynUl8XQm=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixOfjHkIIIi4Zyme7q5I5884uP53isMXJEoKVVkjycubLdxuP6-3icOBDTbZ3TlYHsHj_8qSuGtxwFdjI3MOa5jJRg1TLeJJV6VYeJOqaHAwkrjUinTdKsZEBshLD2I9tfOqNec71h-ArC1Z8JQSXI0RdL6ErzVgdUKvzfkpwa7Lq_8-C0ynUl8XQm=w276-h207" width="276" /></a></div></div> <br /> ~ Then I store them stacked up in this little wire basket, so they are always handy to grab. ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrrXd0IC3CebUoYmgmogWwL5SvwJaZQ7dpedpGGBfsMOwWQEp6q-znYrmjCxRRnIZMFk9FY9UcZI9iVZoS4ccfKVXlygpHoTrH3LqX9VzgQ-EboirxvxsvqdzKEpuY_J_7FNYXhKjlfcRHYKGN8dWCAnQAbbqPinvYd2guK-M2Mfyn1c8NE9vy5Xn=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrrXd0IC3CebUoYmgmogWwL5SvwJaZQ7dpedpGGBfsMOwWQEp6q-znYrmjCxRRnIZMFk9FY9UcZI9iVZoS4ccfKVXlygpHoTrH3LqX9VzgQ-EboirxvxsvqdzKEpuY_J_7FNYXhKjlfcRHYKGN8dWCAnQAbbqPinvYd2guK-M2Mfyn1c8NE9vy5Xn=s320" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUcQZjvUyXcfIAniTaROKii9ggvDyBF9pM3vtz6kh1GuW2E8IyNR0brfpNSXt9lwEMDYNVKqfLpvj9OxYfHHsazFC5dMtjPL9hZfh-F-7vq2XpiWBSs2DOJ6bKCihNEg9iLrhuKyzzjp5MIBdslnvFFa3_5jTQ-cUNR4EF_sL22lEDMqtee_UGtuAM=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUcQZjvUyXcfIAniTaROKii9ggvDyBF9pM3vtz6kh1GuW2E8IyNR0brfpNSXt9lwEMDYNVKqfLpvj9OxYfHHsazFC5dMtjPL9hZfh-F-7vq2XpiWBSs2DOJ6bKCihNEg9iLrhuKyzzjp5MIBdslnvFFa3_5jTQ-cUNR4EF_sL22lEDMqtee_UGtuAM=w245-h184" width="245" /></a></div><br /></div></div>...and finally. I got an Instant Pot. :) and I'm quite pleased with it. I'm taking my time and apart from one bad experience where I disintegrated the vegetables, it hasn't been too bad. Mind you I've only made two other things in it ...he he :) One of the things I made was to cook a whole chicken. I followed a dear lady on YouTube and did exactly what she said. Mine somehow took a little longer to cook completely (48 minutes), and also made about 2.5 Cups of delicious chicken stock too. I like that it is saving money as I'm not using my big oven and it cooks so fast. I can use ti to cook beans (which we eat a lot of), Rice and even yoghurt. I also made a Thai Chicken Curry another night and that was very delicious too. I purchased the 6 litre and that is a good size for our needs. If you also have one I would love to hear what you've made in it plus your cooking adventures, be they good or funny :)<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLjNS61e2wpSMpvW5GUT7ivJAQUxQvTeXc4J95l8UAopJABd6IfzcJOHWPX69cBODfmGgsfd1kR6X1YxdM7MxmPDgwpQvSJZKt3bBwiDuBbl7uaywpHU-DW1Bl7eByZsxZeKJ_cKQLe9jXNIt8dhSjD-X-IhXERqIVe1u4P67zqKVC9WcJW2jhoGGv=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLjNS61e2wpSMpvW5GUT7ivJAQUxQvTeXc4J95l8UAopJABd6IfzcJOHWPX69cBODfmGgsfd1kR6X1YxdM7MxmPDgwpQvSJZKt3bBwiDuBbl7uaywpHU-DW1Bl7eByZsxZeKJ_cKQLe9jXNIt8dhSjD-X-IhXERqIVe1u4P67zqKVC9WcJW2jhoGGv=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Video tutorial to cook a whole chicken in the instant pot: https://youtu.be/vjQzADYqSow</div><div><br />Well that's all for now. I hope you try the bread recipe - let me know if you do. I also hope you enjoy reading about how I make our little cloth table napkins. Blessings to you all ~ Linda<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-64754883260824068192022-03-16T20:50:00.004-07:002022-03-16T20:52:26.756-07:00Light a Candle<p> </p><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/a/AVvXsEgLpF79W0RFHBFRV-KY6m1KUKWRAZQ_Wg3WD5tOSJIkPFM8P8ufufHciCtFOU5bGPEWvqqHbKryjsZ8dr5TVKv29YD2-_5VSouML-xs0jOvbVHh8EhIXJiGthPcWpY2EC2b9O8CxU8x8NcQ2r1RtXwr_gLIisqeZSmZadxg81PiUv7cLLx8C5mqCGaJ=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgLpF79W0RFHBFRV-KY6m1KUKWRAZQ_Wg3WD5tOSJIkPFM8P8ufufHciCtFOU5bGPEWvqqHbKryjsZ8dr5TVKv29YD2-_5VSouML-xs0jOvbVHh8EhIXJiGthPcWpY2EC2b9O8CxU8x8NcQ2r1RtXwr_gLIisqeZSmZadxg81PiUv7cLLx8C5mqCGaJ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Hello dear friends and quiet followers, Welcome to the Little Homestead. First up I just wanted to say what a blessing it is to have a home; I know many of you out there will be saying 'Amen'. I know how you love your homes and that you strive to create a place of calm; a welcoming refuge for your children and husband as they return at the close of the day.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEim0cpNGr8EFbdCMZhHHq64UTtL-VptZTDSNgDd5QhBsA4Qk7i1AUI1QxxWkV9xtDSss7hrUFHZjtxKExzwpWjCE7EhqvLL3_Bj9dukGTUTFdgrdbyFFSB-n7ATCwIpmOOASgGtzi8FKhRWzu-F2hMpbrhVGlZ2K47eO6kmKzlmrl3Sc_aSHuvmuwJu=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEim0cpNGr8EFbdCMZhHHq64UTtL-VptZTDSNgDd5QhBsA4Qk7i1AUI1QxxWkV9xtDSss7hrUFHZjtxKExzwpWjCE7EhqvLL3_Bj9dukGTUTFdgrdbyFFSB-n7ATCwIpmOOASgGtzi8FKhRWzu-F2hMpbrhVGlZ2K47eO6kmKzlmrl3Sc_aSHuvmuwJu=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A home is a place that almost wraps its arms around us during hard times. I know when I am unwell I can retreat to my clean and cosy bedroom and I'm always so thankful for its comfort and warmth - it feels like a little sanctuary. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEix-gK5mp42_Snt7gsSxLF8ZnymXHg5twmjINz8r_WDbFqIZLejaVHDWd2-tAIGpdhgQhub_dgVLFYxl3fvUjzPvV2QhCr_SXkLdjTAeEz5IMk6o5a4pJ3_f8FrC58nELhwaREqZDlNwIHg4TPXBk8N2SNdkPKq-bmzLzliAGFAP4bZ6CZ9STzdYpoT=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEix-gK5mp42_Snt7gsSxLF8ZnymXHg5twmjINz8r_WDbFqIZLejaVHDWd2-tAIGpdhgQhub_dgVLFYxl3fvUjzPvV2QhCr_SXkLdjTAeEz5IMk6o5a4pJ3_f8FrC58nELhwaREqZDlNwIHg4TPXBk8N2SNdkPKq-bmzLzliAGFAP4bZ6CZ9STzdYpoT=w320-h400" width="320" /></a></div><span style="text-align: left;">If we have a disappointment in life or someone has hurt us, to be able to go home and be surrounded by our family and sit by the fire while they listen to our woes is a great comfort. </span></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/a/AVvXsEgKi_LtHq9KBH8AXlWh3fd8dyqGNAvOM97R9JnxWQ9uG51AIW6KpnAWcFBuCfu58tF9FhwoEgqsQFXVCBVX6Ff1wlvpHwwdARqNf7re_uO5ggVwT1eTJZyqbaogwQYomKVRqvgDqio3DykzrjMUQVo579xUYyvoU6OfwbxrUosRZ8kOPTdIjROOhDJ-=s768" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="768" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKi_LtHq9KBH8AXlWh3fd8dyqGNAvOM97R9JnxWQ9uG51AIW6KpnAWcFBuCfu58tF9FhwoEgqsQFXVCBVX6Ff1wlvpHwwdARqNf7re_uO5ggVwT1eTJZyqbaogwQYomKVRqvgDqio3DykzrjMUQVo579xUYyvoU6OfwbxrUosRZ8kOPTdIjROOhDJ-=w400-h345" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>To come through that door and smell food cooking, or just that familiar smell that is your home, is comforting. You can be yourself, put your feet up; you can relax.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiULAxfgMyt4vzdXtZ6TMVKNqAmQHhjXS5_qo88ZanaCY28wYQNmGEmRLi-R_Ywjg080cmHOSOfNYPCy5Rk2EL2ypOJWAuVmYAgRl5S9ys7mX_vVv_Y8s1BAxgRvEPYXys2ZJKw8KLN3LnzNpuxPqDlyPR6sGhwvAqUOUpbMK668GK5wCTO4fjed2Q=s1095" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1095" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiULAxfgMyt4vzdXtZ6TMVKNqAmQHhjXS5_qo88ZanaCY28wYQNmGEmRLi-R_Ywjg080cmHOSOfNYPCy5Rk2EL2ypOJWAuVmYAgRl5S9ys7mX_vVv_Y8s1BAxgRvEPYXys2ZJKw8KLN3LnzNpuxPqDlyPR6sGhwvAqUOUpbMK668GK5wCTO4fjed2Q=w400-h319" width="400" /></a></div><div><p>...I've tried to lay a little ground work, build up a feeling..an atmosphere of what a blessing, that physical dwelling and its furnishings are and equally what a blessing those people that live within those walls are - your family.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheqrBYYQzfr3q07DOU4Zl8l7yY1QCo0PqZQgIifSVL7AamOaPqlOMwCz-wMSuoWegfJJZ6VJ1u0QYcDCVvCZS82VnyL6DNjs3wLctvItp_XAjR9nc6X2XMJ-azQk-aSRBgZZN9ZqxHLO67_f8iNhGQxWsXPYcWptsKkNDXCexq9PIdRxk0Tk86H8lZ=s743" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="598" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheqrBYYQzfr3q07DOU4Zl8l7yY1QCo0PqZQgIifSVL7AamOaPqlOMwCz-wMSuoWegfJJZ6VJ1u0QYcDCVvCZS82VnyL6DNjs3wLctvItp_XAjR9nc6X2XMJ-azQk-aSRBgZZN9ZqxHLO67_f8iNhGQxWsXPYcWptsKkNDXCexq9PIdRxk0Tk86H8lZ=w323-h400" width="323" /></a></div><p>So imagine if all that is suddenly taken away from you; or you had to abandon your home? That's what's happening to millions of people right now. Many of them no doubt our brothers and sisters in the Lord. I am of course talking about what's happening in Ukraine right now. The images on the news are so terribly sad. For me what really hits me is seeing elderly people and also young mum's with children looking frightened, cold and walking along carrying a single backpack or suitcase. It's seeing fathers having to farewell their families as they stay to defend their country - families broken apart. People headed into the unknown and for how long. Will they get to return and if so will their home still be there?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1fSQWDEl0r0qTSQzZQ9JvuxZwKmDCTKD0NMGQoj7fil8KDTuCi5Q5BgPggvORXu2Apz6AtDoJE6hkUGOrGxU9x4yfghVDix5nZ-bXWfUypYPijkPBwZVvtofRb6NNfoxhCq66zQoXYV94NWmlq5Sf_kYv1cSvTPeBI3kqO_2yS0QCvpRuafWJZzkU=s459" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="333" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1fSQWDEl0r0qTSQzZQ9JvuxZwKmDCTKD0NMGQoj7fil8KDTuCi5Q5BgPggvORXu2Apz6AtDoJE6hkUGOrGxU9x4yfghVDix5nZ-bXWfUypYPijkPBwZVvtofRb6NNfoxhCq66zQoXYV94NWmlq5Sf_kYv1cSvTPeBI3kqO_2yS0QCvpRuafWJZzkU=w464-h640" width="464" /></a></div><p>This scripture came to mind: <span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. </span><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 1</span><span class="reftext" face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #aa4400; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 15px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: text-top;">6</span><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.</span><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(Matthew 5:14-16). </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I see people in Poland and other villages taking in refugees. I hear of organisations collecting clothing, bedding, food, pushchairs to help the refugees. I see Go Fund Me sort of pages set up to help individuals to escape from Ukraine. I've received emails asking me to pray into specific situations for the leader of Ukraine and for the people. What motivates people to want to help others? It is LOVE. It is compassion. It's merciful hearts. I see all these efforts as people shining their light; shining the gospel light. I know not everyone would be a Christian that's helping but the impulse of the heart to help another, comes from a place of love. That spark of God in all people, that part of them that's created in the image of God even if they don't realise it, is shining the light, showing the heart of God. If all people acted in this way, putting others ahead of themselves this situation wouldn't even exist. </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I just wanted to encourage you to shine your light today in any way you can- let that spark of the divine be evident to all around you. Bring God glory this day and all days. </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Blessings to you all ~ Linda</span></p><p>*All pictures sourced from the internet/pintrest.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-82994551771920345132022-03-06T00:51:00.000-08:002022-03-06T00:51:02.130-08:00A Pioneer<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOY9e93fgOAD416RfJdSvER1BVtRzAcpdye637sRv0yRZV0ktE2DAkm5YjFLTVfMRXeR3dMhIbYsZ2bwXHzZ4fNi1tnMTuiCYBhFsydZdcnAloHprViEOBrIjcXDOU4hdIxJXb_duBys7GVqXcED85_0gFAa0KSpJTfg5cQI0kElSZA1e_BuGy7hJL=s781" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOY9e93fgOAD416RfJdSvER1BVtRzAcpdye637sRv0yRZV0ktE2DAkm5YjFLTVfMRXeR3dMhIbYsZ2bwXHzZ4fNi1tnMTuiCYBhFsydZdcnAloHprViEOBrIjcXDOU4hdIxJXb_duBys7GVqXcED85_0gFAa0KSpJTfg5cQI0kElSZA1e_BuGy7hJL=w462-h640" width="462" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Hi friends and quiet followers,</p><p>it's Autumn here in New Zealand, that glorious season has arrived once again. O the blessing of seasons. But I must say this year I am sad to see the end of summer. I think this is the first time in many years that I've felt this way. Maybe its because I've been so busy in the garden and equally satisfied processing the abundance. Every time I'm out there I just stand in awe, and walk around with a heart of gratitude. There's been endless bouquets of fragrant sweet peas to grace my kitchen window sill, and always some sort of surprise, whether that be an enormous pumpkin growing quietly hidden under something that I missed or a few strawberries still hanging on for me to pick. All I know is I just didn't want Summer to end, even if I do need a rest. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnQRoYE2RcmKFQfFx8xeQ29FliaHfYRzJahCY14terwmTUI2SS-qzAG2c_0dvAIrhquzf37XxGBcn-0smfOt8tBIZtiiEuIhtCqsJ_f0OW9BPJQ909coIPYBNKtaBEJFCFpb7TKh1UzfS6cg_0c_ScBnGz4M_gZ51RGHn8Hi-PsQ_ZlJLaAfzVxhfE=s276" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="236" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnQRoYE2RcmKFQfFx8xeQ29FliaHfYRzJahCY14terwmTUI2SS-qzAG2c_0dvAIrhquzf37XxGBcn-0smfOt8tBIZtiiEuIhtCqsJ_f0OW9BPJQ909coIPYBNKtaBEJFCFpb7TKh1UzfS6cg_0c_ScBnGz4M_gZ51RGHn8Hi-PsQ_ZlJLaAfzVxhfE=w342-h400" width="342" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The garden also provides me with an escape from what's happening in our world. I can only hear so much; too much and I become overwhelmed. In the garden or working quietly away in my kitchen my thoughts often just turn into prayers and I can lay all that heaviness down at the Lords feet. Then I come away feeling refreshed. I look around at our cosy handmade home and pass shelves laden with all the preserving I've spent the Summer doing and it feels good. Its satisfying work, and it brings me joy to know what I'm feeding my family came from the work of my own two hands and mostly from our garden.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNG8Y09o_3Oqjjz6A5-7T5FeIKP4yUUWW4Yc4UHYENaBzppjhb2-wBADfpsVyyZ3q_C0auu0Y7rvKqH7Iwr8IJD0wP3aDgW9C-tNnkp1sDFRgO9DuGVhrrAObHp7equIkJs_sfwt4N9BjBz8KVmsfeJiP-AZ5UeoRmB2q7uBGECy8BwkSw5XFP4j2W=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNG8Y09o_3Oqjjz6A5-7T5FeIKP4yUUWW4Yc4UHYENaBzppjhb2-wBADfpsVyyZ3q_C0auu0Y7rvKqH7Iwr8IJD0wP3aDgW9C-tNnkp1sDFRgO9DuGVhrrAObHp7equIkJs_sfwt4N9BjBz8KVmsfeJiP-AZ5UeoRmB2q7uBGECy8BwkSw5XFP4j2W=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">~ Apple Cider Vinegar from apple peelings ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6UZB-GqDUwZGp0B7yrcEYZG4tcB1erfOOkgX9lVq8dAh-Ivx70NZ2vF69Urx10YdWdHJRPuY_o5Enz5xohX6Khn5bJfhHyG80mgdcUNqQw0ReWrCdZXQTFO8r25svjeK5B4AWz1k2dFbSJUfvhi-u2cWGx3HCin_WUquQ_-uCYE5VZYVGTP0wyBGn=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6UZB-GqDUwZGp0B7yrcEYZG4tcB1erfOOkgX9lVq8dAh-Ivx70NZ2vF69Urx10YdWdHJRPuY_o5Enz5xohX6Khn5bJfhHyG80mgdcUNqQw0ReWrCdZXQTFO8r25svjeK5B4AWz1k2dFbSJUfvhi-u2cWGx3HCin_WUquQ_-uCYE5VZYVGTP0wyBGn=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div> ~ Our Cox's Orange Apple harvest - yield x 5 baskets ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyCugRXbqjmso32_W5z7INrOHGG5a10xyPcYytks61-fOKEE13fqmY0VZ1C60fZM11Q406vbFAgEcNE2KDb0GnWOxAgGaPxoxDPsLwUqBFsmMFg-LPb5ges0-4DC8-6i7v4sgr9PSoJGN612FVjMnkW6DKKYxi5fR8O3TOmIUklMmwRbcGB9BiVmI8=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyCugRXbqjmso32_W5z7INrOHGG5a10xyPcYytks61-fOKEE13fqmY0VZ1C60fZM11Q406vbFAgEcNE2KDb0GnWOxAgGaPxoxDPsLwUqBFsmMFg-LPb5ges0-4DC8-6i7v4sgr9PSoJGN612FVjMnkW6DKKYxi5fR8O3TOmIUklMmwRbcGB9BiVmI8=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ever since we extended the garden I've had this pioneer mentality that nothing should be wasted. Everything we grew had to either be eaten fresh, canned, frozen, dehydrated or given away if we had surplus. My daughter made a joke the other day saying "You better watch out when you go to Nanny's she may just stick you in a jar and put you in the water bath" :) !!! </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/a/AVvXsEhrGuyldZWCS1yjB2-tVfmSCg1Z8V9KQSQKb5V1kHJAOmCyXDfPQBvrdsj2vkgLVGs3Vz3vaIppyI2cixg8IwyTfWZxn1FEvM5oMNhnK7J6r6L7YPnDKFtk_4euK-GO5WjEzHWMV4o9unNcC97uHSgh0oOtoyhUvCG9cVTV0zkWmBYELlMwrVsNZB4F=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrGuyldZWCS1yjB2-tVfmSCg1Z8V9KQSQKb5V1kHJAOmCyXDfPQBvrdsj2vkgLVGs3Vz3vaIppyI2cixg8IwyTfWZxn1FEvM5oMNhnK7J6r6L7YPnDKFtk_4euK-GO5WjEzHWMV4o9unNcC97uHSgh0oOtoyhUvCG9cVTV0zkWmBYELlMwrVsNZB4F=w320-h400" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I spent my childhood watching shows like 'Little House on the Prairie', The Walton's, Bonanza and lots of old movies. I always loved the simplicity of their lives then. I know they had to work extremely hard and their were no modern conveniences, but their days also had purpose and a rhythm to them. They lived in harmony with the seasons. Most if not all people would have had a garden.</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/a/AVvXsEh6tywC-6SwhTw2002c3GCMZLRgxF3WjwYC_fx_0M1iP_-xQbiMd8AtaSQGNNJaaS4MWuZlPl8DZCff6hGTR_vZ16EKTPonRSpfP93E6VrNiJkXHdnYli1xOGGSHXOplaq1GFiCs379MquaTpJFR7Tzhvmi5cBWGVCzvN9d-au2xZzFVtJ8isYgJWqa=s750" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="750" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6tywC-6SwhTw2002c3GCMZLRgxF3WjwYC_fx_0M1iP_-xQbiMd8AtaSQGNNJaaS4MWuZlPl8DZCff6hGTR_vZ16EKTPonRSpfP93E6VrNiJkXHdnYli1xOGGSHXOplaq1GFiCs379MquaTpJFR7Tzhvmi5cBWGVCzvN9d-au2xZzFVtJ8isYgJWqa=w400-h297" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Crops had to be planted. Harvesting and canning were a necessity for survival. A mountain of wood was needed to keep the woodstove going, to not only cook the food but heat the home and water for bathing and cleaning. Their was no time to waste. And nothing was wasted. I remember hearing someone say in remembrance of earlier times "If you didn't can it (preserve) it, you probably wouldn't be eating it". There just wasn't the money to go out and buy out of season food and often it wasn't available anyway.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgm3j2OUMIoCD4vC2j524QoVAIj-9z-CTy2hxQtk7QeSZiz2S7JacaYZJP9iKf9SbnINBuB86tXEBulCEjmbzIe_WXkR15EbVkv1ccjqfUMiFj0J-QuMjnzK-0cU9bGMxSb_zdz3LFQ5sHQO0OChvRUN8EeAjoiDZV-vb3gKxFKD6PPOcg-RgnO48Ne=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgm3j2OUMIoCD4vC2j524QoVAIj-9z-CTy2hxQtk7QeSZiz2S7JacaYZJP9iKf9SbnINBuB86tXEBulCEjmbzIe_WXkR15EbVkv1ccjqfUMiFj0J-QuMjnzK-0cU9bGMxSb_zdz3LFQ5sHQO0OChvRUN8EeAjoiDZV-vb3gKxFKD6PPOcg-RgnO48Ne=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been thinking about all these things for a long time. We don't have a television, but we do have internet and watch the news every couple of days. One thing I keep seeing popping up is 'expect food shortages' and 'prices will increase'. We are seeing that where I live, here in New Zealand. House prices have gone through the roof. We pay over three New Zealand dollars for one litre of petrol. Food prices keep going up up and up. I had to buy a cabbage this week as I didn't get more cabbage plants in after the last lot finished and guess how much it cost: $8.00 for one medium size head of cabbage !!! That's unheard of. Last year it was about $5.00 and I thought that was outrageous. So I felt in my spirit to take action, to extend the garden back in Spring and praise the Lord for obedience !! and being prepared to look like a nut for digging up the whole back yard :)</div><div>So all Summer I've been chopping, stirring, sieving, straining, canning, dehydrating and freezing. </div><div>Now our pantry and freezers are stuffed full, plus I've given countless bags of fruit and vegetables to friends and family. A vegetable garden is a marvellous thing !</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCEep48E26xTWTfTPlTl1-uiF_oPbz1nrOK_uHg16N8XmKHU2VnTdYwALQLiaBqzpjaw0tj1nghl35D0bs1nXKDlv71QFDeu2lN3u3jbaGtJHhTxVmigFZq4Bx7EALkTcQmqkkrCThE6UWTFGnIvand3Vaofg_QhnMeOXDAZa33sCKUMfvjjQrVMj9=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCEep48E26xTWTfTPlTl1-uiF_oPbz1nrOK_uHg16N8XmKHU2VnTdYwALQLiaBqzpjaw0tj1nghl35D0bs1nXKDlv71QFDeu2lN3u3jbaGtJHhTxVmigFZq4Bx7EALkTcQmqkkrCThE6UWTFGnIvand3Vaofg_QhnMeOXDAZa33sCKUMfvjjQrVMj9=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR9ruIdeoDa3ZsYzLVrdGD86HIzu2IFpWjSGt1iIhZgQ_cdDLXvf3bFnJ1yKBwcRYtsHMmOn5qu8ayPoVvhqLM9GAQ7IkxJOi87OTT07rBu20dO6ICdhbEUewLzxP1tvAJagtYIWYbdvAqHuYw05vvB7kfRgRXKmlu1FPhTbMzoH6xyBIXrPzMD6ok=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR9ruIdeoDa3ZsYzLVrdGD86HIzu2IFpWjSGt1iIhZgQ_cdDLXvf3bFnJ1yKBwcRYtsHMmOn5qu8ayPoVvhqLM9GAQ7IkxJOi87OTT07rBu20dO6ICdhbEUewLzxP1tvAJagtYIWYbdvAqHuYw05vvB7kfRgRXKmlu1FPhTbMzoH6xyBIXrPzMD6ok=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxSn9RAO5tzfe3g3rSfcq5k04b7dlBG3vFO1Fs77wRcW5MT-5LDiYiOk354b6FeTgi_pEz_grY7ROABxTZz825nKf0XoY5CeAV2wPedJjpGBB2-BLLebbyFiSidWnnQ889D3B6a0KA-eLX0XQ5CwSYNFpTRPYkDmMkw4NshucM0ptVQcC0tcI2nd2V=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxSn9RAO5tzfe3g3rSfcq5k04b7dlBG3vFO1Fs77wRcW5MT-5LDiYiOk354b6FeTgi_pEz_grY7ROABxTZz825nKf0XoY5CeAV2wPedJjpGBB2-BLLebbyFiSidWnnQ889D3B6a0KA-eLX0XQ5CwSYNFpTRPYkDmMkw4NshucM0ptVQcC0tcI2nd2V=s320" width="320" /></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/a/AVvXsEhYE_sAuC4lOClpCbVctj4umvpW1qvAceMIKjhZMSXEUSid-ppVQCAtHAgwx9pOy-DjzD_3ls_Z8eAV9dBgFta7yR17pvhVIkhII0Q5ay5TZasma_c-Y6cQDeTQL3Y3SjRv-Rt-ZVvmEaxYLm7NBsxckDFPbzzdJ_8adVcs9RFVqLq5ZY6O-JvgVPCv=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYE_sAuC4lOClpCbVctj4umvpW1qvAceMIKjhZMSXEUSid-ppVQCAtHAgwx9pOy-DjzD_3ls_Z8eAV9dBgFta7yR17pvhVIkhII0Q5ay5TZasma_c-Y6cQDeTQL3Y3SjRv-Rt-ZVvmEaxYLm7NBsxckDFPbzzdJ_8adVcs9RFVqLq5ZY6O-JvgVPCv=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ cucumber pickles ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiAsCCuuD-4cdWIJNs3OVPK4Y2zK_2p5hJEQ4Rp5DngggyzrynWjtGyVjQsvIaF6FhjAh1SKk8BqvLJhk-YG4KPoV4slc2msNn8eEqmSdeALRJaS7EsxVwLdtlNa56VFP9SigfN_3gctaIyEyGOUm0Cgy9LbBdih1yC3_gGT7bWA7avNszOEVGNjn0C=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiAsCCuuD-4cdWIJNs3OVPK4Y2zK_2p5hJEQ4Rp5DngggyzrynWjtGyVjQsvIaF6FhjAh1SKk8BqvLJhk-YG4KPoV4slc2msNn8eEqmSdeALRJaS7EsxVwLdtlNa56VFP9SigfN_3gctaIyEyGOUm0Cgy9LbBdih1yC3_gGT7bWA7avNszOEVGNjn0C=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Sweet Orange Marmalade ~</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGw2bpQFPGk8R3bqDmhLkOPzMAKzGaH6ubC_ZcMKvNcSCV2w3Z3CH3TUvhyQB82I9rQzISjBZXdKsiUlX4nsvCZDVr4M18wucM_07c1rmb6rWd6dg9CD7TDLWadm7Oxt4hTPUtM9xDVVMSklCbph9-gs50jW5DMri3KIip99z0zPbHr56yKDkyXuo6=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGw2bpQFPGk8R3bqDmhLkOPzMAKzGaH6ubC_ZcMKvNcSCV2w3Z3CH3TUvhyQB82I9rQzISjBZXdKsiUlX4nsvCZDVr4M18wucM_07c1rmb6rWd6dg9CD7TDLWadm7Oxt4hTPUtM9xDVVMSklCbph9-gs50jW5DMri3KIip99z0zPbHr56yKDkyXuo6=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVDhtpbGTvhnnpZKajcPANC93wAwK7B_mFpjs7bTECk9IZ5yV_eiir5ApQ-n7cKgw9D3iQlADbtWUYTQuGVBTp47zeMwwUAXGXwYMUbJHEXwMIVOerQqffrBM9WCPWb0GlD47ogmBMVuUccWvVBvDtWnMTfGucjh6MVp82LrWc4vv74ffJGDaMNaZR=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVDhtpbGTvhnnpZKajcPANC93wAwK7B_mFpjs7bTECk9IZ5yV_eiir5ApQ-n7cKgw9D3iQlADbtWUYTQuGVBTp47zeMwwUAXGXwYMUbJHEXwMIVOerQqffrBM9WCPWb0GlD47ogmBMVuUccWvVBvDtWnMTfGucjh6MVp82LrWc4vv74ffJGDaMNaZR=w223-h297" width="223" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxcCPrt0ZhAvl1oUNLuairGNlDXhWWavgmGCW4jo9S3H-gVnbkSqVtOh59IkbGqyj3Ipmz0unKDp1U8n-BlqfH_d4C8-rnt82MTutBG-_9fFpohfKE8mtUWlCVYtgSePN_-WphPTuSrORiOLh8_gduMcslE5KqrqTRsCxeLY8mMRNJ_8St--IjzuFK=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxcCPrt0ZhAvl1oUNLuairGNlDXhWWavgmGCW4jo9S3H-gVnbkSqVtOh59IkbGqyj3Ipmz0unKDp1U8n-BlqfH_d4C8-rnt82MTutBG-_9fFpohfKE8mtUWlCVYtgSePN_-WphPTuSrORiOLh8_gduMcslE5KqrqTRsCxeLY8mMRNJ_8St--IjzuFK=s320" width="240" /></a></div></div> ~ Pasta Sauce, Taco Sauce, Raspberry Jam, Blueberry & Blackcurrant Jam ~<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirrDlm49eY4byM5xmWsc8M3Td3cv60gXo-t0Kq3g0WVHO5ByS_RtuP3GOAPoXqMc_95wOsId4CcBn0CrXHz7krzdLDUhByMoeTC7nCNgAMyz-BAdfOj3nX9qh2dE0zBRSuHgoEy1VT-fVHDH8YlRsEcngPdthpGj8dENMMpx_TSJBAAeWOeC9JYm08=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEirrDlm49eY4byM5xmWsc8M3Td3cv60gXo-t0Kq3g0WVHO5ByS_RtuP3GOAPoXqMc_95wOsId4CcBn0CrXHz7krzdLDUhByMoeTC7nCNgAMyz-BAdfOj3nX9qh2dE0zBRSuHgoEy1VT-fVHDH8YlRsEcngPdthpGj8dENMMpx_TSJBAAeWOeC9JYm08=s320" width="320" /></a></div> ~ Savoury oven/freezer tomato soup/sauce ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhooaRZToUcj60KviIkQZQY8SML2UmVMMKUcwRxVXabtaTb4Bq761_rhToAmV0l8AZRxxoChKHNV7qP6MwKj69yfGvefHS8EVyx_A4d2aa47HBXPcXvxPalCng8thaddiZMvqJHtKoXWYkCTAW3FbOaZDUybd2cZpAsaRwplS3qSEZP0Lv3Nm-irxPG=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhooaRZToUcj60KviIkQZQY8SML2UmVMMKUcwRxVXabtaTb4Bq761_rhToAmV0l8AZRxxoChKHNV7qP6MwKj69yfGvefHS8EVyx_A4d2aa47HBXPcXvxPalCng8thaddiZMvqJHtKoXWYkCTAW3FbOaZDUybd2cZpAsaRwplS3qSEZP0Lv3Nm-irxPG=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These days we don't know what will be coming next? God says not to worry about tomorrow because tomorrow has enough cares of its own. Knowing that God is in control even when the world looks like its lost the plot is oh so comforting and my anchor.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet I don't just expect for things to just land in my lap; I work hard. I plan, I sow, I harvest .Whether its sewing or baking I love to make things from scratch, plus it saves money. I also try to buy in bulk and store all the basic food like grains, flour, sugar etc in bins, so even if their is a shortage in the store, we will be prepared. I've been buying Raw Honey and Organic Apple Cider Vinegar in bulk too to make tonics like 'Fire Cider' and Elderberry Syrup. Plus I've added more medicinal herbs to the herb garden this year.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipWhIHQIyYBCBugN645QhaAUUxC-bXFpdMrfVHCz2AailmwW6Ya5E2ZZc_KEtvjmC_3GW56_tx2vrbWsa1xD6XBcq5i6jdaC2k5SzCBEn-Hg23WjUcisN51An_LP-78h_vz_YB7Fe5gF8PK5k1cW0gz04ECNAAk6thM9N3fqsUlmVPu0thERlVA44o=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipWhIHQIyYBCBugN645QhaAUUxC-bXFpdMrfVHCz2AailmwW6Ya5E2ZZc_KEtvjmC_3GW56_tx2vrbWsa1xD6XBcq5i6jdaC2k5SzCBEn-Hg23WjUcisN51An_LP-78h_vz_YB7Fe5gF8PK5k1cW0gz04ECNAAk6thM9N3fqsUlmVPu0thERlVA44o=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Homemade Hamburger Buns ~</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbIwicBhiu3RVmiAIc2v6b18vxFSUljjYsXNN0O8QUZ2-iKhnT3Qnyo1qs72IWSbrFjQr_-wO7k1elu_-ZNKfz83R5u6WpBn6j2d1k2Gi80t7hveyLzlIGSNEjKYc7hNmgb5OmkX-xg1ltwKqbHvpvP4_8Ij7WjMIkSMpzPduJBP7yo38QhxwcS0JN=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbIwicBhiu3RVmiAIc2v6b18vxFSUljjYsXNN0O8QUZ2-iKhnT3Qnyo1qs72IWSbrFjQr_-wO7k1elu_-ZNKfz83R5u6WpBn6j2d1k2Gi80t7hveyLzlIGSNEjKYc7hNmgb5OmkX-xg1ltwKqbHvpvP4_8Ij7WjMIkSMpzPduJBP7yo38QhxwcS0JN=s320" width="320" /></a></div> ~ Chocolate Zucchini Cakes ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6Gf-X_I_A1FP-DJ872XBAhPBNCRCrUvIxmi5xZ1gFGI7RClAlQFuYZB_J05YC__wT6_S4MXMuv2E2Q_F-d-yRPi_m0yZc1C4uFiROED7IGdrKIclNbsZaq6ABv9Wqvbh28IbNT9eZEeF-PtqDpyWLKg3sc1Y63nJv0SsZpwhvBd6bSw-urM0JsMJ0=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6Gf-X_I_A1FP-DJ872XBAhPBNCRCrUvIxmi5xZ1gFGI7RClAlQFuYZB_J05YC__wT6_S4MXMuv2E2Q_F-d-yRPi_m0yZc1C4uFiROED7IGdrKIclNbsZaq6ABv9Wqvbh28IbNT9eZEeF-PtqDpyWLKg3sc1Y63nJv0SsZpwhvBd6bSw-urM0JsMJ0=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div> ~ Homemade Shortbread - my favourite ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEit1dMaUogfUCuh7IR4WO4By36JfccmhRqYCDbQN22SapxpATteOgZR5iLxb7N0rkCv0XXN1ZqD1TORZu2hmmi0axY-cLkfxd-Iil7iz6zzrZ-arcWyT4ocukCOR9rEAD6nzQHceke7R-QQEele_WXistpVAhprn85mRv2SOAGJTd3OQgaCEjgAlt3w=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEit1dMaUogfUCuh7IR4WO4By36JfccmhRqYCDbQN22SapxpATteOgZR5iLxb7N0rkCv0XXN1ZqD1TORZu2hmmi0axY-cLkfxd-Iil7iz6zzrZ-arcWyT4ocukCOR9rEAD6nzQHceke7R-QQEele_WXistpVAhprn85mRv2SOAGJTd3OQgaCEjgAlt3w=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div> ~ Chicken soup from 2 chicken legs and garden vegetables + <div> cornmeal muffins and cheese. Our simple suppers ~</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO0VtwKXSas2xtkq907HHy_yYCQG0yqpPyQFV_iu1E7XmNgE1-k1tyPVB3ne-zzTgujtJyZ2BIKRqoUGO5ZiWzShfDRXP-JF-cODRKktQt7sCkCotwIEQ_Awzi8_bpmPD6o5lWikzl8qXf6yYLEhyRljdbCKCMcm9VKiIdC4POvi6Vmqws5vJPN5-R=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO0VtwKXSas2xtkq907HHy_yYCQG0yqpPyQFV_iu1E7XmNgE1-k1tyPVB3ne-zzTgujtJyZ2BIKRqoUGO5ZiWzShfDRXP-JF-cODRKktQt7sCkCotwIEQ_Awzi8_bpmPD6o5lWikzl8qXf6yYLEhyRljdbCKCMcm9VKiIdC4POvi6Vmqws5vJPN5-R=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The tomatoes and zucchini have been so plentiful this year. Last year it was the opposite. We planted earlier than usual and it paid off. My motto has been to not waste anything. I've canned every tomato thing you could think of :) Pasta sauce, Taco Sauce, Relish, Ketchup, Tomato Sauce, Tomato Puree, Tomato Soup....frozen endless grated zucchini, plus dehydrated it and made it into fritters, cakes and relish. We've used red and green cabbage in sauerkraut and frozen a ton of beans, peppers and celery. Just this past weekend I was harvesting nearly the last of the Basil and hanging bunches to dry and making Pesto for the freezer. I've tried to not let a week go by that I haven't been spending at least a few days canning something. Last weekend we did 15 quart size jars of apples and froze 12 bags of apple puree. I've also tried to make our meals based around what is plentiful in the garden. Because we were inundated with zucchini and tomatoes, we've eaten a lot of Ratatouille :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's my recipe:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>~ Linda's </i><span style="text-align: left;"><i>Ratatouille ~</i></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Ingredients</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">5 medium size Zucchini - chopped</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">8 large tomatoes - diced chunky</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 x red onion - sliced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3 - 4 cloves garlic - sliced thin</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 yellow capsicum - cut in small chunks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 T Balsamic Vinegar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 t taco style seasoning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh Basil leaves</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 t dried Oregano</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Herb salt & Sea salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh ground pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Method:</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Oil a roasting dish. In a large bowl combine all the vegetables and seasonings. Add to the roasting dish. Cook at 220 C Fan Bake in the middle of the oven for about 40 minutes, stirring two times during the cooking time. Let it all caramelize. It's so delicious and makes a great side dish to accompany so many things.</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/a/AVvXsEi5bpNfE_GiSJzQj3tR64g7AXpgtXGUYQW-aSJq3IrRKeKv0nofAH3ZyzjmNEpE7gkOsfuIzz3RwThO1Ps4TAPSXyDXqEteV0tlYdEd_hK2ngc6O5WbYrhbfrwhcTaniRyi7nCMfD93026jvfUPvzYfRqbGFhuW-9gb4_h73PttKFnsu62Qu-BOBG4z=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5bpNfE_GiSJzQj3tR64g7AXpgtXGUYQW-aSJq3IrRKeKv0nofAH3ZyzjmNEpE7gkOsfuIzz3RwThO1Ps4TAPSXyDXqEteV0tlYdEd_hK2ngc6O5WbYrhbfrwhcTaniRyi7nCMfD93026jvfUPvzYfRqbGFhuW-9gb4_h73PttKFnsu62Qu-BOBG4z=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As the days become cooler I won't be out in the garden as much, other than cleaning up and preparing the beds for Winter. Instead I'll be spending most of my time inside by the fire and catching up with some sewing, which I enjoy. <span style="text-align: left;">I love to make all sorts of things from scratch and purchased some pretty cotton and linen fabrics to make pillow cases for our bed.</span></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">Some of the fabric I already had and need to use up. I love florals, neutral shades, checks and stripes. I'll share some photos when I get them made.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAUJS3szibP3D3v2VBNAx_ZFlFUlwCNoT1d62eTf7IP5EUnmldeEqTKo6z3KV-2BtNtv9vjVqd4ZdupOL3ikVOYKm34qkQGuO8BbCGEZaDoSXX_PoSsSE2FlFr8ukYss_vQEXGiIvxgEK34VcAakqp3oqrUeQ7-fWTf0jdBGLAPFbPPgawDQDpvfbc=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAUJS3szibP3D3v2VBNAx_ZFlFUlwCNoT1d62eTf7IP5EUnmldeEqTKo6z3KV-2BtNtv9vjVqd4ZdupOL3ikVOYKm34qkQGuO8BbCGEZaDoSXX_PoSsSE2FlFr8ukYss_vQEXGiIvxgEK34VcAakqp3oqrUeQ7-fWTf0jdBGLAPFbPPgawDQDpvfbc=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well I started this post with sharing how I feel like a pioneer, because pioneers were seeking a new land with opportunities to start over. I felt like I needed that a few years ago when I was burned out and had overworked myself. I lacked balance and wasn't living the way I wanted too. I wanted to change and needed to let go of things in my life. Now I feel like my life is in balance. We are growing and processing our own food. We are living more simply. I do have more time for others. I've totally overhauled my life from where it was and I'm so grateful to the Holy Spirit for the promptings to live life the way I desired, the way I felt called to, even if it's considered old fashioned and out of style. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you feel like I used to, then take one little step, change one thing and just work from there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYqZaIRIwso-TyDUQoNcl3I_JnylOlS8vA41mj8baN-OnjxNvwDiAuvf00flsRjmdzRXHBf-ABdvl1XbV_i-VIBGyMJIE9XANCQl6drPyIub5258kzWw7sfDta_Tj6LLxgVLna7bPFoayiYiLpAWRlRP9VxxpEhu0NRxrWs2Nk24h26dF8QegLMC6s=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYqZaIRIwso-TyDUQoNcl3I_JnylOlS8vA41mj8baN-OnjxNvwDiAuvf00flsRjmdzRXHBf-ABdvl1XbV_i-VIBGyMJIE9XANCQl6drPyIub5258kzWw7sfDta_Tj6LLxgVLna7bPFoayiYiLpAWRlRP9VxxpEhu0NRxrWs2Nk24h26dF8QegLMC6s=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well that's about all for now. I know some of you in other parts of the world are now in Spring and you gardeners will be excitedly sorting out your seeds and seeing what you <span style="text-align: left;">want to order for this season. Have fun !!! :o) May it be glorious and I pray you reap abundantly, even more than you expect. </span><span style="text-align: left;">Blessings and peace to you all ~ Linda x </span></div></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiA11j2rUmneCaHBZoa_lgH5HC9lLRK9X3ajURSoQB4GA2OXzGT6jXgoYoUOzs9e4750EcyAjPDppinuHVf9-5yMKKrvNbaYb3PAnrs448SAnQmIhpXXcTJMrX1f8b8iQZ9_Rs6pi57vUXo_deQor894ggAJbXg5fCQD4kV8U0HY2qgpqNb-F80BFks=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiA11j2rUmneCaHBZoa_lgH5HC9lLRK9X3ajURSoQB4GA2OXzGT6jXgoYoUOzs9e4750EcyAjPDppinuHVf9-5yMKKrvNbaYb3PAnrs448SAnQmIhpXXcTJMrX1f8b8iQZ9_Rs6pi57vUXo_deQor894ggAJbXg5fCQD4kV8U0HY2qgpqNb-F80BFks=s320" width="240" /></a></div> ~ Our sweet little granddaughter Freya ~<div><br /><div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7EKWMg7esrvq3QT6utMAxLm-E6DwXDZxlVUnTagqptI9GPmWL2pCeMQqAVsUnJ6Sjx2sKqTXQP43b_nygVwM-mgvOV_z8ZWAzoPyXc_yehBtOFLRH20fEC83Ga5lmk0O663VHs18qMvGeEcR6sgtNXdDLKG0IoHMCD_P3nvstdRJlzDPceRzU8Ijx=s960" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7EKWMg7esrvq3QT6utMAxLm-E6DwXDZxlVUnTagqptI9GPmWL2pCeMQqAVsUnJ6Sjx2sKqTXQP43b_nygVwM-mgvOV_z8ZWAzoPyXc_yehBtOFLRH20fEC83Ga5lmk0O663VHs18qMvGeEcR6sgtNXdDLKG0IoHMCD_P3nvstdRJlzDPceRzU8Ijx=w300-h400" width="300" /></a><br /><p></p><br /><p> </p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-67982173209580097342022-01-03T15:25:00.004-08:002022-01-04T12:28:59.454-08:00A Safe Place<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgEHtRuEyF_eBTxh15aFi90gH8ECUyp7ZPFjijXZCJtFCnE25qUpBLw9p9V35YYYhkI-d8IRuZKei0T0tBTXrkJfRVvYIXsp2JWD9Ko4AqsXEQtCOcKmj5BD4PTDxB6d_wc3L7lGM6tyC1YLDKEbxs7FQLuRxO7L-DlLzAvP0VnxBKtbrFT35t8FqY8=s660" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="660" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgEHtRuEyF_eBTxh15aFi90gH8ECUyp7ZPFjijXZCJtFCnE25qUpBLw9p9V35YYYhkI-d8IRuZKei0T0tBTXrkJfRVvYIXsp2JWD9Ko4AqsXEQtCOcKmj5BD4PTDxB6d_wc3L7lGM6tyC1YLDKEbxs7FQLuRxO7L-DlLzAvP0VnxBKtbrFT35t8FqY8=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Hello dear friends and quiet readers,</p><p>It's been on my heart to write something, so here goes...</p><p>I want this place, my little spot here in blog land to be a safe haven. Surely we need that right now. I want it to be a place where if you are burdened or feel you have no one to listen to you, you can share here or send me a private message (ladies only). What I don't want is this place to be used for gossip, or any divisive talk.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWo_jydX9IZSN0fUJeDIAbyAm7iNvi8Lna3jzHs-7Ud9ScFmdqUWCrYKkBUnRQQtarG7wrRJ8NkVgVnnPGuhWJKdI-sjEodQ2o1_E0_-oHj8ujzN1gmenbsOE83y4qOtcr0q4F4qX9_8bDA0KizcDH1hQSpdmUil6nOq06DOhu0RBwVWYoIYjXcJ7I=s448" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="291" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWo_jydX9IZSN0fUJeDIAbyAm7iNvi8Lna3jzHs-7Ud9ScFmdqUWCrYKkBUnRQQtarG7wrRJ8NkVgVnnPGuhWJKdI-sjEodQ2o1_E0_-oHj8ujzN1gmenbsOE83y4qOtcr0q4F4qX9_8bDA0KizcDH1hQSpdmUil6nOq06DOhu0RBwVWYoIYjXcJ7I=w260-h400" width="260" /></a></div><div><br /></div>If your like me, your a Keeper of the Home and this is what fills your day. You may have family to care for, children still at home and or grandchildren. This all requires a lot of work, love and commitment. Our minds and hearts need to be peaceful to do this well, and if our hearts are heavy because of different things then frankly it make life very hard indeed. I would say emotionally, the last year has been my hardest ever. With losing my Dad and sister + all the scares about covid and other things happening in the world....but even more than that. What's caused me the most pain and sadness to the point of tears many times is the division that vaccine issues has caused within families and my own. I want to share this scripture: <div><h3 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 20px; min-width: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><i>Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)</i></span></span></h3><h3 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 20px; min-width: 0px;"><i style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;">22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. </i></h3><p> This scripture is dear to my heart and is a measuring rod for me to hold myself accountable in my daily walk. These days it seems vaccine issues have drawn new 'lines in the sand'. I just see the enemy having a field day. He loves nothing more than Christians criticising and judging each other and pitting one end time world view against another. So what if your eschatology is slightly different to mine? God's interested in the heart and whether or not we're growing in the fruits of the spirit. If I'm loving my neighbour and giving God the glory by the way I live my life each day. I'm not seeing much of that around me right now. These are surely dark days and it makes me so sad. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkOnOrafwSANVTnajQZ4QZXUk2kji9I9NIb0hBgEkLx2fysgY40WCw0Ob2Ix9XdmzSYNC5ot5tDtaB4sRHh06fucU1A53WLC_s78l7ukV3XoVrJVFc3r3xWjWcIIZfu06SkgWXh_XYtlc3RqF3jqsnUDP_rjFV6NyMi_TZ18Ym69J75wPFejx0g2wE=s660" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="660" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkOnOrafwSANVTnajQZ4QZXUk2kji9I9NIb0hBgEkLx2fysgY40WCw0Ob2Ix9XdmzSYNC5ot5tDtaB4sRHh06fucU1A53WLC_s78l7ukV3XoVrJVFc3r3xWjWcIIZfu06SkgWXh_XYtlc3RqF3jqsnUDP_rjFV6NyMi_TZ18Ym69J75wPFejx0g2wE=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>My heart goes out to people who are backed into a corner, like we are. Our government leaves no option for most people. If you don't have the vaccine, you will lose your job. This applies to nearly all jobs. Some people have a lot of money/property investments behind them and have the option to make a choice that will not affect their livelihood, but most people do not. I really don't think voluntarily leaving your job and going on the unemployment benefit is an option either? or having to sell your home and go where? Some people forced to take the vaccine have become ill because of it, that saddens me terribly too. I feel we are like guinea pigs. I do not trust our govt in this country. They lie, quite blatantly. They leave no freedom of choice. I am pro choice. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSJvZIifZ4plq_t5URW6BRyD-WnEfP_6hzjkKE-Rr3qdZhgD8n63W3mJw19UQ4790JrXDwFTYZ3m3N2pWpk1lD6y444zsFWDgE5cKAN4TjtPb55pvP3X2qDe3JlaerpO036kkyR8exFoL_tnNZgIeVhQKVeeUqYzD3rtGxoDO6Q27tE8PMApu9RVxb=s700" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="525" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSJvZIifZ4plq_t5URW6BRyD-WnEfP_6hzjkKE-Rr3qdZhgD8n63W3mJw19UQ4790JrXDwFTYZ3m3N2pWpk1lD6y444zsFWDgE5cKAN4TjtPb55pvP3X2qDe3JlaerpO036kkyR8exFoL_tnNZgIeVhQKVeeUqYzD3rtGxoDO6Q27tE8PMApu9RVxb=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div>Many people because of compromised health have taken the vaccine....because they feared getting a bad case of covid. If you've had the vaccine I don't judge you, we had to take it too. I didn't want to, I was frightened and wrestled with the whole thing and now the endless boosters. I haven't had the booster and don't want to...Oh Lord help us. Even if your pro the vaccine I don't judge you. Maybe you think me a fool for my opinions? When I spent countless hours praying about this situation, I felt the Lord impress upon my heart to choose the narrow way, to walk in it and to have compassion and mercy for people on all sides..in all situations. That's where I stand.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgh6l5J2lHeDj_izU6ewT8PNBQw2rnn3HB3TN4zYW_c-OHedzcHR8jzZtYmaCP4lOXMscuIfAnNdozaqHjcZDqqlYS9hPj8rlA2CfNv1lS6uSW98EjU1K9I1i06xzUjLmPxQc_SpxIMtSR7UNlIYtO3VmSS42nSbvZOCUdlFVvOEatzRqgkh93bVAJE=s800" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="800" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgh6l5J2lHeDj_izU6ewT8PNBQw2rnn3HB3TN4zYW_c-OHedzcHR8jzZtYmaCP4lOXMscuIfAnNdozaqHjcZDqqlYS9hPj8rlA2CfNv1lS6uSW98EjU1K9I1i06xzUjLmPxQc_SpxIMtSR7UNlIYtO3VmSS42nSbvZOCUdlFVvOEatzRqgkh93bVAJE=w400-h310" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I look ahead to 2022 I have no idea if it will be as difficult as 2021. I've never suffered loneliness and rejection like I have this past year. My heart has been so torn and I've felt so confused at times I thought I might lose my mind. People who I love acted in ways I would never have imagined. But what I do know is GOD WAS AND IS MY ANCHOR. My faith did not waver, not even one little bit. Many nights when I couldn't sleep, I would repeat scripture verses over in my head or repeat the name of Jesus over and over to dispel the darkness that tried to swamp me..and it worked every time. </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/a/AVvXsEgK1o6fKHr09Q2oj-I6W0IRJpkNSDE5JoiDjqgLCx9DkO766XRUt75QFMu5BOkRrfDn04zF0c8JK7cN3EjHXFykLJxFZcSJF7AQ5n8szZtG8n9dmRW57xFHE5NZS0TaoEP1rUnHNJlvIhnpU4rwSSF0ZnihMtXeSmV17urkyNyns9sISDOn6bMiRfc0=s992" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgK1o6fKHr09Q2oj-I6W0IRJpkNSDE5JoiDjqgLCx9DkO766XRUt75QFMu5BOkRrfDn04zF0c8JK7cN3EjHXFykLJxFZcSJF7AQ5n8szZtG8n9dmRW57xFHE5NZS0TaoEP1rUnHNJlvIhnpU4rwSSF0ZnihMtXeSmV17urkyNyns9sISDOn6bMiRfc0=w323-h400" width="323" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I truly feel like a pilgrim. I think I shared here 2 years ago that we had to leave the church we attended as we found out that they were connected with ungodly/unscriptural practices. It's too much to go into and I don't intend to. We had worshipped there for 10 years. I live in a very small town in a country area and because of our Christian values there is no where else to attend; so there again we are on our own. Yet we are still faithful. We have daily morning and night devotionals, bible reading and prayer. We have to make the best of the circumstances we find ourselves in. We are faithful and committed to the Lord. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So if you read this, and feel alone many days too,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">then know I am here for you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let's stick together and walk in love as believers in Jesus,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">supporting each other through our struggles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">May we still shine our little lights</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and show love where we can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">May the Lord bless you,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Linda ~</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/a/AVvXsEhFtq_qmUf2jQqWsrqAAg9u7F08Lp3E9EKts6nF8qcWOl5WD5cO_gGxbZqCUfVfUm9Eu0hMLf__p0DqJ1fpHI8EMKguyFDtV17sDBgyshEzGpSb-CiaXwII7RRCE6shStrxCXy5EF9xTGn9dPeU4K7ABc7V7un1YcctD_8E_ngna5gUKb1VeFS7J72d=s823" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFtq_qmUf2jQqWsrqAAg9u7F08Lp3E9EKts6nF8qcWOl5WD5cO_gGxbZqCUfVfUm9Eu0hMLf__p0DqJ1fpHI8EMKguyFDtV17sDBgyshEzGpSb-CiaXwII7RRCE6shStrxCXy5EF9xTGn9dPeU4K7ABc7V7un1YcctD_8E_ngna5gUKb1VeFS7J72d=s320" width="281" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-88457759753081686192022-01-01T16:27:00.015-08:002022-01-03T14:37:34.309-08:00New Year, Same Hope<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB3COo1P2wUUd_oBKJelMU9DqsALqfSPI_hjOqIaerkODN-3PVN7yNXUlFcxJiHPQGTorO-7zOvrponbbMPpt14H6_ZdngBm4lTJ1SpYvV1SlZQjPvPNMQKvVeduKrnT4xMNefYRxbd-e1ETy10ef_h13aePRoTzysr3LjzFm7MK5_Hicx-pzvnhqQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB3COo1P2wUUd_oBKJelMU9DqsALqfSPI_hjOqIaerkODN-3PVN7yNXUlFcxJiHPQGTorO-7zOvrponbbMPpt14H6_ZdngBm4lTJ1SpYvV1SlZQjPvPNMQKvVeduKrnT4xMNefYRxbd-e1ETy10ef_h13aePRoTzysr3LjzFm7MK5_Hicx-pzvnhqQ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br />Hello everyone,<p></p><p>I'm back..sorry for my long absence. It was grief, pure, tough and simple and just needing a little space while I went through it and processed some things...but my heart has mended and I feel more peaceful again. I wanted this post to be a little update on what's been happening around our little homestead and in my heart...sort of reflections of 2021 and goals for 2022. The title is New Year, same hope. My hope is always in the Lord !!! :) </p><p><i>Hebrews 10:23 'Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful' Amen</i></p><p>Plus a ton of pictures, please feel free to scroll through or whizz through it all if it's all a load of waffle to you. We've also had wonderful grandies days with little ones visiting :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6Qm2n-LInjEQ_hAqdnH6T38zn3e5KtR-nc7TqwuA2aF_hwTJRWbxNi2Z0xOARC7reYqW4HGuv2Ol2RiVJmUjutgQD9SbXdEAMqmdtMRT1JMCWdApGBN4rjV1n4WV0mOwn1hG1F6-izNskubltuqESM-vPI79_vYMz_93BjdYN37uA6JW1lUgmnG1i=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6Qm2n-LInjEQ_hAqdnH6T38zn3e5KtR-nc7TqwuA2aF_hwTJRWbxNi2Z0xOARC7reYqW4HGuv2Ol2RiVJmUjutgQD9SbXdEAMqmdtMRT1JMCWdApGBN4rjV1n4WV0mOwn1hG1F6-izNskubltuqESM-vPI79_vYMz_93BjdYN37uA6JW1lUgmnG1i=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7CGy3CWI_lKVCPUnQJZRSkvdo8hx8B4ex_uWqDBRJ9XcdfIkizapX0of-dyASfjYK3gJ_BeHUCNYbfQhS2y_oA4GmXYRiLk2Y5ri0suVSGWsvuLffgnPvEllzoZq0jwUTGJJiGBQysmXCmLKqGAmQLtMdnB7fKzrrcMwQG--PVYzAUsHdZDSbcVNb=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7CGy3CWI_lKVCPUnQJZRSkvdo8hx8B4ex_uWqDBRJ9XcdfIkizapX0of-dyASfjYK3gJ_BeHUCNYbfQhS2y_oA4GmXYRiLk2Y5ri0suVSGWsvuLffgnPvEllzoZq0jwUTGJJiGBQysmXCmLKqGAmQLtMdnB7fKzrrcMwQG--PVYzAUsHdZDSbcVNb=s320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4NI4cRP5yEfas3ZrICjh7UBwrCRs36NdiJcCPgJwyYxasxPQKm2p2tEnslYsc04E4PYvlYsctwsPyBxwJTwhBM2AmwQXQpJJ_IoPg_w-JZYTLGMSnK9fcflMULPfT4rYIRzv0uvhMSEYFhdAfEMUfdgC6Vw5GHjwCSPWGfuEa7fZZtJtfWvBXdnTe=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4NI4cRP5yEfas3ZrICjh7UBwrCRs36NdiJcCPgJwyYxasxPQKm2p2tEnslYsc04E4PYvlYsctwsPyBxwJTwhBM2AmwQXQpJJ_IoPg_w-JZYTLGMSnK9fcflMULPfT4rYIRzv0uvhMSEYFhdAfEMUfdgC6Vw5GHjwCSPWGfuEa7fZZtJtfWvBXdnTe=s320" width="240" /></a></div> </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitB1qe5HjWYnBOElFlAXQp-wY7fHLI3cnRyfgxM5fioYVDCcnHkyfPFx97VPrN4mj6VxhjRKMAoZ4Cd1hVVNLIZb9YMdz4UkYXeQUA4rbuPGCxgMXuVtefrT6I_3Moy4W08Z-pOApJ3dcUzL_Oy6D1FYS7NqIPpvFfnZTysbJSWevtjarwiQTNG4tG=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitB1qe5HjWYnBOElFlAXQp-wY7fHLI3cnRyfgxM5fioYVDCcnHkyfPFx97VPrN4mj6VxhjRKMAoZ4Cd1hVVNLIZb9YMdz4UkYXeQUA4rbuPGCxgMXuVtefrT6I_3Moy4W08Z-pOApJ3dcUzL_Oy6D1FYS7NqIPpvFfnZTysbJSWevtjarwiQTNG4tG=w300-h400" width="300" /></a> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">2021 October: We extended our vegetable garden - exponentially !!! and I'm thrilled with the results. We have a total of 16 - 17 total vegetable beds now and I probably still need a large spare one to have room for successive plantings of things like lettuce, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage etc. We have plans to make a proper screened in area for raspberries and boysenberries and a couple of small cloche style boxes fitted with old windows, to act as little hot houses for Spring & late Autumn/Winter use. </span></div><p>We planted some more fruit trees too: 1 x Cherry, 2 x Nashi Pears, 1 x Prune Plum, 1 Dwarf Pear tree and a Feijoa Hedge. I'll make a little video/tour and upload to You tube and then put here for the next post.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEglU_TxIK1Fl0VTguxL0UyyQZmO_8t8e5_MtIIBjJQA3SPgpk2KbZDCgoUL7xzkPVkdLuRFJ3kvihcqdpf2h5yg_5_-Etj3Ff7i4VAj0yuB5y2UXlMh2mga9yWnS1hEJSIJhdGX42Ryf5SVbYzuVxQ95oa2sIGNy6eIlRsMk-_qcQE5mQgakj91TbLV=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEglU_TxIK1Fl0VTguxL0UyyQZmO_8t8e5_MtIIBjJQA3SPgpk2KbZDCgoUL7xzkPVkdLuRFJ3kvihcqdpf2h5yg_5_-Etj3Ff7i4VAj0yuB5y2UXlMh2mga9yWnS1hEJSIJhdGX42Ryf5SVbYzuVxQ95oa2sIGNy6eIlRsMk-_qcQE5mQgakj91TbLV=w300-h400" width="300" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3xHTeFZf9rTTvz4MyRzomTozX5coOSl9GkSbVjNPO7IXHCyBNc-h-vvxpB_KMNQUuEVyzE39N7CaMBSomMGNIzyx3uxj7t-MvvJ3NI0PwF4P9rxL-Bw3bbdNsV5DL4Bxr5uJgBOCjVpksWD1IF3O030TfXmRYPkz84qrttSsxSSrM4AUupQ-GjZh0=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3xHTeFZf9rTTvz4MyRzomTozX5coOSl9GkSbVjNPO7IXHCyBNc-h-vvxpB_KMNQUuEVyzE39N7CaMBSomMGNIzyx3uxj7t-MvvJ3NI0PwF4P9rxL-Bw3bbdNsV5DL4Bxr5uJgBOCjVpksWD1IF3O030TfXmRYPkz84qrttSsxSSrM4AUupQ-GjZh0=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ0gPTkUanh2ahDuawngHxw7SJyIpAj-ZF2CfRccwTNM8zjLP85cgeSn9BgmugF-DOvfg7YBpAoCpjDMzlQ5teRFWZz-p-HeOqZh9fy1Ng6QRfYjNDkuASwVkiCoJCqLFcaVJl3-cabksTo6zijYSCKl3uFaCZox8QaCtLV4MbWGyG4ethTeMKusOG=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ0gPTkUanh2ahDuawngHxw7SJyIpAj-ZF2CfRccwTNM8zjLP85cgeSn9BgmugF-DOvfg7YBpAoCpjDMzlQ5teRFWZz-p-HeOqZh9fy1Ng6QRfYjNDkuASwVkiCoJCqLFcaVJl3-cabksTo6zijYSCKl3uFaCZox8QaCtLV4MbWGyG4ethTeMKusOG=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p>I also wanted the garden space to be filled with pretty flowers, so we planted Sunflowers, Cosmos, Nasturtium, Marigolds, Poppies and 'O' how pretty they look !! How majestic soaring up towards the sun. Every time I go out there, whether its just to walk and talk with the Lord, or to go out purposefully to harvest something, I come back feeling in my heart happy, thankful and with an overarching sense of blessed peace. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjToLByUrDAL8k-5E51XiuDQZ7RoQtPoqtBFvP2n5bD6sSIpG3u7gAomRjR8oyq7vNq1meW9RNSf2SSg2Vfi5b4Pw-72USh2nilLnrJn-xwHIuHxVgiV8v00Voc5TtKqlTZRmv2jmcYX2Bb79IXHUieE0ImqqwTLbKa3Qa2-er_kWTidcmnHyFttMG8=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjToLByUrDAL8k-5E51XiuDQZ7RoQtPoqtBFvP2n5bD6sSIpG3u7gAomRjR8oyq7vNq1meW9RNSf2SSg2Vfi5b4Pw-72USh2nilLnrJn-xwHIuHxVgiV8v00Voc5TtKqlTZRmv2jmcYX2Bb79IXHUieE0ImqqwTLbKa3Qa2-er_kWTidcmnHyFttMG8=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p>We've been eating fresh salads from the garden daily plus harvesting cabbage, cauliflower, beetroot, spring onions, red onions, zucchini, lettuce, spinach, kale, silverbeet, a few carrots and herbs - which is fantastic for our budget. I've been making sauerkraut, grating, freezing and dehydrating zucchini, and making Relish from zucchini. I bottled some Beetroot, plus froze and vacuum sealed a whole lot of celery. The tomatoes are yet to ripen, so no doubt then I will be up to my eyeballs in produce :) We have Apricots and Plums ripening..so plenty of bottling coming up soon too.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1lAA0twQ9j3B335d8x3pkC2UB3DUwIY-g453AYRuW9t8xi98gT9WfmtYiGw_J5AyZbobBG66n48ezPH887FoGpTHbkxRtdMFK7e070JVfNLyMO05i1eX2CejvCxHCU3WYKkm8TWYyzLc1Q80fd1KVlnqq8o84cAHYDPiCP_YzexecQLoHkUVOsMUp=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1lAA0twQ9j3B335d8x3pkC2UB3DUwIY-g453AYRuW9t8xi98gT9WfmtYiGw_J5AyZbobBG66n48ezPH887FoGpTHbkxRtdMFK7e070JVfNLyMO05i1eX2CejvCxHCU3WYKkm8TWYyzLc1Q80fd1KVlnqq8o84cAHYDPiCP_YzexecQLoHkUVOsMUp=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div></div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqR2YL9Qn3xr3U0j3TSSeR_GijzdDjV35zHEYRekwGD6icMZFzihx1AvhBlqpt0lPy_vvDcsP05pQhGVEI3-pG6lQXsUkBGREoW8uSp_3f3WF4MeDIlqxQBDVPPikwcXcC8ObV_pZj1bR5YJTE3T_80kl7PZ8_3y_CL5EIbTsAKwwpb_qIroSn87mH=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqR2YL9Qn3xr3U0j3TSSeR_GijzdDjV35zHEYRekwGD6icMZFzihx1AvhBlqpt0lPy_vvDcsP05pQhGVEI3-pG6lQXsUkBGREoW8uSp_3f3WF4MeDIlqxQBDVPPikwcXcC8ObV_pZj1bR5YJTE3T_80kl7PZ8_3y_CL5EIbTsAKwwpb_qIroSn87mH=w400-h300" width="400" /></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/a/AVvXsEiwYzKWH68F17AWsn7YSaBN7lZNkq3F_40GTLxNxhoOdr_RR3sgQhvZLEZay6LC_YzmgphfvnaRyLDedj8lo9QRRJNApztqx_1w1P7mVdo-9E2Q_grVcvl5MvppOQFLcLzNc3EIPevqbrjTGDP6UlFtbaF00kUNOIoVwY2B1SiSNuhCwzj2Fl_y67BP=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiwYzKWH68F17AWsn7YSaBN7lZNkq3F_40GTLxNxhoOdr_RR3sgQhvZLEZay6LC_YzmgphfvnaRyLDedj8lo9QRRJNApztqx_1w1P7mVdo-9E2Q_grVcvl5MvppOQFLcLzNc3EIPevqbrjTGDP6UlFtbaF00kUNOIoVwY2B1SiSNuhCwzj2Fl_y67BP=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGE5kdDIB_t54lo0t4EIhZpY4uh3bb0Q7YcfYC0ILVFblrDeXsPQx7rtxcSvBAiAGeQ0F7t014Hz-K80qTj0B2zaEO45_SRKH9zyuuj7NV81P7QHERre48wROHjOqXjd5lDfpbSXk0B_4ppdOkn2L7aai1JzyE54HLItDWal621EGZU69w-NnhDWTe=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGE5kdDIB_t54lo0t4EIhZpY4uh3bb0Q7YcfYC0ILVFblrDeXsPQx7rtxcSvBAiAGeQ0F7t014Hz-K80qTj0B2zaEO45_SRKH9zyuuj7NV81P7QHERre48wROHjOqXjd5lDfpbSXk0B_4ppdOkn2L7aai1JzyE54HLItDWal621EGZU69w-NnhDWTe=w300-h400" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig6OabthCr3AlDXmQE_oKblgEVS2kBdSFIfWx2PvW4VrQujomDCLVoofqpTIHs7_qiP6dl97s9DhvPxIaxMG5WpvbSqpU95Qs4cKMrGFbR07yP4madQj98z0ghYolqBbcxlebIBDrSNnVxyK03k1gJvDmV6z5ProTsrRJmNA_AOYKZ4Bgo9N9uT1tM=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig6OabthCr3AlDXmQE_oKblgEVS2kBdSFIfWx2PvW4VrQujomDCLVoofqpTIHs7_qiP6dl97s9DhvPxIaxMG5WpvbSqpU95Qs4cKMrGFbR07yP4madQj98z0ghYolqBbcxlebIBDrSNnVxyK03k1gJvDmV6z5ProTsrRJmNA_AOYKZ4Bgo9N9uT1tM=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihDgu-9f26n6ayjm-yW8QFumjgRfZB9ky-Ylm-XScy1dEQpnfjEV2ZaMqKQHNHuqdBbxAi_ca7ysqoakIQLJ89emJSXH8o6zoTu8t8bru1vZxRRH3l-krZQ__s-nwowIDGZVNXTbWb-K2yqvUXh29DbDjaf_IkF3DqAZLJcWgBr1h3HniLEB3tbsIz=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihDgu-9f26n6ayjm-yW8QFumjgRfZB9ky-Ylm-XScy1dEQpnfjEV2ZaMqKQHNHuqdBbxAi_ca7ysqoakIQLJ89emJSXH8o6zoTu8t8bru1vZxRRH3l-krZQ__s-nwowIDGZVNXTbWb-K2yqvUXh29DbDjaf_IkF3DqAZLJcWgBr1h3HniLEB3tbsIz=w300-h400" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAqjhzxo7KvZU4lxiCltb6LVe0B0il7ChP2di3utDx27Y3xUlHxSe-O8ZF-QS9brHEnmXAWi-wYGQ2qbNl4eu0HSCad2Gt0-fRwGHA_r_LOAYvTxDXM2lhPXGo08Ux9ff5XR2KTsAUVGOsErTuKCw20S_hf_LMnT8nrjc64deBMDf03Zg8T8h3sUMn=s4608" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAqjhzxo7KvZU4lxiCltb6LVe0B0il7ChP2di3utDx27Y3xUlHxSe-O8ZF-QS9brHEnmXAWi-wYGQ2qbNl4eu0HSCad2Gt0-fRwGHA_r_LOAYvTxDXM2lhPXGo08Ux9ff5XR2KTsAUVGOsErTuKCw20S_hf_LMnT8nrjc64deBMDf03Zg8T8h3sUMn=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p>So that pretty much covers what we did and have been busy with in the garden. It amazes me over and over again the vast quantities of food that can be produced from a simple suburban property !!! With hard work and a couple working as a team, all this is possible.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6hwopfO8MYHGGqeWKloQCIcu3YOyR6JGmxRLPeRvF6p_YFHhdZ7IuLHDs-9Q3YaZlJTfP6hk0EbblfQZvMIddtOiOU2OIL3Bsa7Nz1gwlqT3jGY2yC--4VqTh8BWlJkK1cnPm7n4ikd6AsYWikLKClliZ8sktMOhs40IAN80fStwQr8NZ_oB7RQD6=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6hwopfO8MYHGGqeWKloQCIcu3YOyR6JGmxRLPeRvF6p_YFHhdZ7IuLHDs-9Q3YaZlJTfP6hk0EbblfQZvMIddtOiOU2OIL3Bsa7Nz1gwlqT3jGY2yC--4VqTh8BWlJkK1cnPm7n4ikd6AsYWikLKClliZ8sktMOhs40IAN80fStwQr8NZ_oB7RQD6=s320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUC5gFBhY0FIZRDLOUG4Is0RgycU_7h1f2cToLZVVbCXhoGXQuyrre0HhB5dEWoZ4D20ZWb8jseYUNwnWGGQY0NrOy4FV59Fn6YzUbPCZe9b95ZOf9algoqNlRddtWt-wFpVlQa9zBTO5wBM6b58YXgVdfiHenMfHNG4m8hFqWYHg9t943Le8qcfnX=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUC5gFBhY0FIZRDLOUG4Is0RgycU_7h1f2cToLZVVbCXhoGXQuyrre0HhB5dEWoZ4D20ZWb8jseYUNwnWGGQY0NrOy4FV59Fn6YzUbPCZe9b95ZOf9algoqNlRddtWt-wFpVlQa9zBTO5wBM6b58YXgVdfiHenMfHNG4m8hFqWYHg9t943Le8qcfnX=s320" width="240" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqgap7LlOq-q78ubZb2r1DE-dKj-4n34TJy4_90qNg4RCavx2vlrdEdvbHVekJBou3UzABU0Z8kkxIaonqckedk-27jty9-T3a9hTcdRnK-KasxAT1oGJJVwJ5-7MiV94qYZo17bP0R1zXIIyt7M3ExeZbMxtTt0mBxGTlyGLgnkZ-klmGxB3E_ewd=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqgap7LlOq-q78ubZb2r1DE-dKj-4n34TJy4_90qNg4RCavx2vlrdEdvbHVekJBou3UzABU0Z8kkxIaonqckedk-27jty9-T3a9hTcdRnK-KasxAT1oGJJVwJ5-7MiV94qYZo17bP0R1zXIIyt7M3ExeZbMxtTt0mBxGTlyGLgnkZ-klmGxB3E_ewd=s320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjV7vnIYHcHO_pL-c2B90eKQL8g6LwaPIq4oenUDHddZBxNhp8RYObRZhP-jj4CCppSaN16UWM1nEFKLuz2M0JdFTKvGmPH3h5bmqQpVYe8QQmRgntxr2A9cz5PRFYw1zL8xw-HYr-w8-zXso1p7SlZnMU-mBd0w2AA01m4qQxyX6d3Ao-9fAm51S9m=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjV7vnIYHcHO_pL-c2B90eKQL8g6LwaPIq4oenUDHddZBxNhp8RYObRZhP-jj4CCppSaN16UWM1nEFKLuz2M0JdFTKvGmPH3h5bmqQpVYe8QQmRgntxr2A9cz5PRFYw1zL8xw-HYr-w8-zXso1p7SlZnMU-mBd0w2AA01m4qQxyX6d3Ao-9fAm51S9m=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-Vfq5PFwA0iFy4aZANnf6XIXCf0W5nmRsvkVHL_PChTw-00aFC5fskJGTybjnHbcOkxqLULLfgBBA5Wo1kNb8R7EO2A540365gg3RZ6dOu1epPaMa8pEACL_8XwKsBavZWiIiR_zJEkNje2MSkWHHi14vIBJAJIBLfaYpoJTDOExX__L0BruXgijb=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-Vfq5PFwA0iFy4aZANnf6XIXCf0W5nmRsvkVHL_PChTw-00aFC5fskJGTybjnHbcOkxqLULLfgBBA5Wo1kNb8R7EO2A540365gg3RZ6dOu1epPaMa8pEACL_8XwKsBavZWiIiR_zJEkNje2MSkWHHi14vIBJAJIBLfaYpoJTDOExX__L0BruXgijb=s320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8FF9gCRedsWZVZURNvKdXssOz0Lg-wQHGBIhMD_ahMt_HUiJeHU4ns7pLYg95gxCibY1WPLhEQ6bDgcKiglKy5HTkQpxum_Q4xDHZ0LZTBSjJFb86aXTYWVk1v1BB3FtANfJtYVp50PZ5pjKO7A-9IQmtHLJpuIl9-75-0UCFiAQu06lO0gi87oU-=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8FF9gCRedsWZVZURNvKdXssOz0Lg-wQHGBIhMD_ahMt_HUiJeHU4ns7pLYg95gxCibY1WPLhEQ6bDgcKiglKy5HTkQpxum_Q4xDHZ0LZTBSjJFb86aXTYWVk1v1BB3FtANfJtYVp50PZ5pjKO7A-9IQmtHLJpuIl9-75-0UCFiAQu06lO0gi87oU-=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>2021 R E F L E C T I O N S</p><p>1. Always put the Lord first. Even if its tough at times, we must prefer God over the affections of people. This is easier said than done and I fail in this area at times, because like most of us we don't want to hurt people, especially when we have to take a stand as a Christian. Being a Christian isn't always easy. If we desire to walk in holiness with the Lord, we need to make sacrifices, tough choices and be prepared to walk the narrow way with Him alone. This is relevant to so many situations and struggles from the past year...and I see more on the horizon, more challenges and hard choices. We need to be ever so close to the Lord, keeping short accounts and seeking to hear the Holy Spirits quiet voice. So often we don't need to give an answer, and silence is best. Keeping our opinions to our self is best. Sometimes when asked for my opinion about an issue, (and aren't their so many 'controversial issues' out there today), my response is often: "I don't have an opinion. As a Christian my life is lived in submission to God and to His Word. My will, my thoughts, my desires must come into alignment and into submission to what the Word says." (even when it may be hard).</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyQLVufKKlzP10q4owJZVD1IFQK1YhL-TsAeTq0XT0WnWGFv2LDUSMWLCdGSjm8IWxu9U1R5z-Pd3C7Y3hlmSknAkqTmQVy8uwdzro_j7_y2-XoEL5z5nNMa5U2rRRoUUuvSl1a_pwIRIvQtOIUPwcO3ZMpwOsZc57oUqrqk5LLAuXLnQDcZmIylyf=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyQLVufKKlzP10q4owJZVD1IFQK1YhL-TsAeTq0XT0WnWGFv2LDUSMWLCdGSjm8IWxu9U1R5z-Pd3C7Y3hlmSknAkqTmQVy8uwdzro_j7_y2-XoEL5z5nNMa5U2rRRoUUuvSl1a_pwIRIvQtOIUPwcO3ZMpwOsZc57oUqrqk5LLAuXLnQDcZmIylyf=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><p>2. Sometimes people will just not like us, often just because we are a Christian. There is nothing I can do to make it any different. I can pray for them, ask God for strength to not get down about there opinion and attitude and still purpose in my heart to love them and be kind. Otherwise I am no different.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiy8xW9I-YWZLzcHs0XFquCDQcbboKey7DEdPToLvk0NSM-wIK21tSXjFnhEebkmOtpqHcd1KIVQoPFkPwk3eGrOLkiODWKG1dGgtwfE5FESrHvO369dAJk94xvoyn0Qg-EfqSVw13NN28WIvDIaT5p2vtPUkmXxwPkAtoMau-MYahYjDpUkiQXcbQ2=s520" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="428" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiy8xW9I-YWZLzcHs0XFquCDQcbboKey7DEdPToLvk0NSM-wIK21tSXjFnhEebkmOtpqHcd1KIVQoPFkPwk3eGrOLkiODWKG1dGgtwfE5FESrHvO369dAJk94xvoyn0Qg-EfqSVw13NN28WIvDIaT5p2vtPUkmXxwPkAtoMau-MYahYjDpUkiQXcbQ2=w329-h400" width="329" /></a></div><br /><p>3. Achieving goals brings joy: In my heart for a long time I had wanted to focus more on the garden, eating from it, preserve more food from it, have successive plantings of lettuce/cabbage etc, sow my own seeds, save seeds, plant a bigger medicinal garden to create a home herbal apothecary. I am well on my way towards this goal :) </p><p>4.Stay out of debt. Its a good feeling when you pay off the credit card !!! I know - happy dance... even though we still have a mortgage. Be vary careful about incurring anymore debt, whether that be getting a new car etc. Can we go without or wait longer? Living a frugal life makes me feel like I'm not wasting what the Lord blesses us with. Drawing up goals for the year holds me accountable. Planning/praying about it all is wise and invites God into all choices.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNb013ffWTqcq2q22DRGdAq9OER1wdadFA47VxPRg45qPh-qdxXTLZ4AaugaQ5G_9WduWRvJFHx9NkFJmRpw_vaOP8jdWGFKiPPyyJe3DVtPg3m4szC8pc10N9riJVa33A1DXrFyJkVBdaLnXCNX7M8QEMvngLuKX5QmZd5K5kY02XHRseeKlDocAl=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNb013ffWTqcq2q22DRGdAq9OER1wdadFA47VxPRg45qPh-qdxXTLZ4AaugaQ5G_9WduWRvJFHx9NkFJmRpw_vaOP8jdWGFKiPPyyJe3DVtPg3m4szC8pc10N9riJVa33A1DXrFyJkVBdaLnXCNX7M8QEMvngLuKX5QmZd5K5kY02XHRseeKlDocAl=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p>5. Busyness can often unravel goal no.4 (its true). If my life is out of control and too busy I don't stick to budgets or meal plans. I impulse shop, Vegetables go to waste in the fridge, I eat more takeaways, I wind up gaining a few pounds and I also end up with unfinished projects all over the house. It makes me feel defeated. Balance in life for me is KEY!!!!! I took my Heart & Hand products out of a local shop that stocked them as it was a big contributor to the 'busyness' and constant need to have to make more stock. If I was 20 years younger I might have enjoyed all that, but at my stage of life I need more simplicity and peace. I now only sell my products online and feel more in control :)</p><p>that's about it for reflections.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMH8ZRIjlzJh_OPjBfm641_sxR3imQgVwLCYTymcYkEoJiLcb-f9BGP03QK-mntOB7RJclD6dh2gS5rVYEksCEPQ9oX8tgNosaeQgJMgD88S0W8nCvpyDpt93QYX_sD-f0tbJRfWqR0V80ArIV3mxzrjpdK_GvDQnbvb1UdA6dyplK0VwAJeCXdP30=s569" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMH8ZRIjlzJh_OPjBfm641_sxR3imQgVwLCYTymcYkEoJiLcb-f9BGP03QK-mntOB7RJclD6dh2gS5rVYEksCEPQ9oX8tgNosaeQgJMgD88S0W8nCvpyDpt93QYX_sD-f0tbJRfWqR0V80ArIV3mxzrjpdK_GvDQnbvb1UdA6dyplK0VwAJeCXdP30=w225-h320" width="225" /></a></div><br /><p>2022 G O A L S (for me)</p><p>1. Complete and add to the home apothecary. Plant more medicinal herbs that we will actually use. Make salves from the infused herbs and a herbal cough mixture so it will be ready for Winter.</p><p>2. Plan a small vacation. We never do this :)</p><p>3. SEW MY WINTER NIGHT GOWNS. I started this project last Autumn and still haven't finished..sigh</p><p>4. Finish painting the house (Hubby mostly).</p><p>5. Have more extended family dinners :)</p><p>6. Save more, continue with goals.</p><p>7. Strive to walk in the spirit each day, seek the Lord at all times and draw closer to His presence.</p><p>8. Try not to get completely overwhelmed and discouraged with the state of the world/covid & the division it's causing within families, churches and Christians. I must admit at times it's a daily struggle for me.</p><p><span style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~</span></p><p style="text-align: left;">Bye for now everyone. Thank you for those who said they had missed me, it warmed my heart and encouraged me xox love you ~ Linda</p><p style="text-align: left;">Final Pic: Me joyfully holding this book. Mrs White if you read this, it gave me a little thrill to know that I own a book you published and recommended. It is so charming. Thank you. My husband purchased it for me for Christmas :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiK-gSA7D0FOCpZjH8b8SEpLKGrXAWm_FPRzzRYHav-adAyTDXTcBiPgM-f_fBO76fGk8FXMGENL_wre00kgPGovsSJtL8KTERyPk2th26jSItX0z86Z5HJxTLniTQmiRAWSCXbB1dYJrp0Z4MRvrO6NGGKXS88B1_RwtH_N6NRK9gikZ3zj4GT8C4N=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiK-gSA7D0FOCpZjH8b8SEpLKGrXAWm_FPRzzRYHav-adAyTDXTcBiPgM-f_fBO76fGk8FXMGENL_wre00kgPGovsSJtL8KTERyPk2th26jSItX0z86Z5HJxTLniTQmiRAWSCXbB1dYJrp0Z4MRvrO6NGGKXS88B1_RwtH_N6NRK9gikZ3zj4GT8C4N=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Psalm 105: 4</i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><b>'Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually'</b></i></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-57280883373401772182021-07-04T20:54:00.011-07:002021-07-05T00:36:21.042-07:00End of an Era<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PTQVDuJHAFOpjbWpzrvTZXqGsyj9W-fYbBjTBelPN9uo9pkcrxz4cQHuhvD1YK5yTvaalk4e24h1Q5MA6Wpc5w2yhA8bQi6vL77USKPmr9dxtNdzQETWo9oJNofVpzMX8fvmt7ybLFk/s2048/211480971_1160745324426521_4769361081344592898_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1366" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PTQVDuJHAFOpjbWpzrvTZXqGsyj9W-fYbBjTBelPN9uo9pkcrxz4cQHuhvD1YK5yTvaalk4e24h1Q5MA6Wpc5w2yhA8bQi6vL77USKPmr9dxtNdzQETWo9oJNofVpzMX8fvmt7ybLFk/w266-h400/211480971_1160745324426521_4769361081344592898_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Hi friends and quiet followers,</p><p>My Dad 'Rae' passed away 4th July 2021 aged 81 years. He'd been ill for about two and a half years and more so the last year, following another heart attack. He also suffered from diabetes.</p><p>I didn't want to let this time go without recording it and also my feelings, as this is one of the ways I remember significant events in my life and also how I felt about it at the time. A couple of hours after he passed I felt a sense of calm, like I'd been holding my breath and was finally able to exhale. The past months have been harrowing for Dad, with many hospital stays, falls and bad ulcers on his legs that just wouldn't heal. His body was shutting down. Our life had taken on a rhythm of checking in every day or two to see how Dad was doing and also how was mum coping. Mum's life was filled with appointments for Dad, care workers coming to their home to help and a lot of frights for mum when Dad would have yet another fall. He had so many falls at the end, yet never broke a bone - a true miracle. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8J-6juMLmnVDlo0FCC1XH-jbbYwtftIVmBZ9YWnIVcABDEfmfctxv_ifvOmZAno5Z8AHsHLWH37lnPg1es52o1pdslZKEiootHZPlKmIBWRDz6Lf-NFvwMQ2j9gGVU7TyRyjUO7wQBdg/s960/Isaac+John+and+Dad+2021.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8J-6juMLmnVDlo0FCC1XH-jbbYwtftIVmBZ9YWnIVcABDEfmfctxv_ifvOmZAno5Z8AHsHLWH37lnPg1es52o1pdslZKEiootHZPlKmIBWRDz6Lf-NFvwMQ2j9gGVU7TyRyjUO7wQBdg/s320/Isaac+John+and+Dad+2021.jpg" /></a></div><p>When my mum called us Saturday morning at 4.45am to tell us to rush to the hospital as Dad was dying, I didn't know it was possible to get ready so fast. I ran into his room upon arrival, but was too late by minutes. My mum was too late as well. We all sobbed our hearts out and couldn't believe Dad was no longer with us. Even the lovely hospital staff were crying and hugging us. Dad's was still warm and we hugged him and said our goodbyes, letting him know once again how much we all loved him. But more than anything we were so relieved for his sake that he was no longer suffering. Through all of this I have witnessed that ageing takes great courage.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFnSev4SsEyZzQwraHq-D-rg8f12J4-EISLpbvoQBv1ARoL8zZ19wMJZgGb4FEoo7x8fz_zYcFwYup4giWEngMb7yo6YPRGqlCjkxBd3GNBldktERQUSXPzzScPQrOFaBF6bxq-kc380/s2048/IMG_0097.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFnSev4SsEyZzQwraHq-D-rg8f12J4-EISLpbvoQBv1ARoL8zZ19wMJZgGb4FEoo7x8fz_zYcFwYup4giWEngMb7yo6YPRGqlCjkxBd3GNBldktERQUSXPzzScPQrOFaBF6bxq-kc380/w300-h400/IMG_0097.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the greatest blessings for me was that Dad had a faith in our Lord and while he may not have been one to talk about it a lot, he tried to live it out in his own ways. He had enough humility to know that we are all imperfect and just try to do our best each day as disciples of our Lord.</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/AVvXsEgy4vJT4fr2PoKhZqZs8ld15U_zJD0ZdYq7N45kZIICe1uqm1UeREsB8KIUvMj2RIBMwKFIjxv9oLwPsGLTuA7G2OZc-dJnzGCpuMAVw6ceCijvktjvVIZRx3TxFAQMkVyRPzk_mt194f8/s960/171447943_10157992641897267_5011573835833486117_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4vJT4fr2PoKhZqZs8ld15U_zJD0ZdYq7N45kZIICe1uqm1UeREsB8KIUvMj2RIBMwKFIjxv9oLwPsGLTuA7G2OZc-dJnzGCpuMAVw6ceCijvktjvVIZRx3TxFAQMkVyRPzk_mt194f8/w360-h640/171447943_10157992641897267_5011573835833486117_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My Dad was in the army as a young man, but didn't fight in any wars. He loved my mum, his children and grandchildren. He especially loved gardening, specializing in growing shrubs and vegetables. He was not able to do this in later years as he had very little energy after his second heart attack. In the final months he didn't even have the strength to lift himself out of a chair and needed someone else to shower him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dad as a dashing younger man.....</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/AVvXsEgGpbxLGqld6BkjvL7F9Bs3LL4csr5gvB6cQAkdbu9TeEtB8qCdMINqi-Rd1mYncQhJ3oFPEJog4rpsIjeHhsBBTBmJR-rQzBV_oi1R-T7OGe9_c-GZLxwjjeAjJKbL0I4RiHCc3PjX1Pw/s888/207068747_4519919831374472_1051138366015397452_n+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="499" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpbxLGqld6BkjvL7F9Bs3LL4csr5gvB6cQAkdbu9TeEtB8qCdMINqi-Rd1mYncQhJ3oFPEJog4rpsIjeHhsBBTBmJR-rQzBV_oi1R-T7OGe9_c-GZLxwjjeAjJKbL0I4RiHCc3PjX1Pw/w360-h640/207068747_4519919831374472_1051138366015397452_n+%25282%2529.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Courting and marrying mum...</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/AVvXsEgAJGUSpL6xLf3M2Y2H53iqP-0U6b9TJ0rtwyWc6feX7pmwf71vCZxmEUupnsG1an77sNNj_rZzjqLT9rK-dr_XLlOUdcb8UAZR88p5KPI0NKtX-TeVaSFkKwUgKwC45zw3hK9rfOWcIkw/s716/208892536_4519919661374489_4605950261300398854_n+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="716" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJGUSpL6xLf3M2Y2H53iqP-0U6b9TJ0rtwyWc6feX7pmwf71vCZxmEUupnsG1an77sNNj_rZzjqLT9rK-dr_XLlOUdcb8UAZR88p5KPI0NKtX-TeVaSFkKwUgKwC45zw3hK9rfOWcIkw/w400-h269/208892536_4519919661374489_4605950261300398854_n+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></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/AVvXsEgo0j_wfkulfcAzaWi-6kqJHaRusq38Cl5hfj_PmLBhTjMtLzyNVkeDS3D9uOh__ohEXKaZ6eX1v6P_wcsbz0PStS3BIoSuYCGB8qwSgjchGH4Zi-glOX3UL101JhKNaiGL5yrFO4wlMVk/s719/208927760_4519919588041163_6598613590520468046_n+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="719" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0j_wfkulfcAzaWi-6kqJHaRusq38Cl5hfj_PmLBhTjMtLzyNVkeDS3D9uOh__ohEXKaZ6eX1v6P_wcsbz0PStS3BIoSuYCGB8qwSgjchGH4Zi-glOX3UL101JhKNaiGL5yrFO4wlMVk/w400-h260/208927760_4519919588041163_6598613590520468046_n+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Lessons I've learned, some from Dad and some from witnessing ageing ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Caring for a sick loved one is not easy and no matter how patient you strive to be, you will lose your patience (says mum and later regret that you did). Bless her</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Don't delay each day to live life well and live out the fruits of the spirit of: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness and Self control.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Keep short accounts with God, friends and your loved ones. Apologise quickly when needed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. If you've always wanted to travel, and your health permits it and you have the finances - just do it !!! (now we have silly old covid 19 and can't) !!!. Mum and Dad made two vacations to Australia with other family members after they had retired (in their 60's and 70's), so it's never too late and they had a blast :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Don't hesitate to share the gospel with those you love, even if they reject it, seeds are still sown and they can work through it with the Lord themselves and in their own time. My Dad made a confession to my husband just weeks before he passed. He gave his life to the Lord as a young man, but confessed again that he believed that Jesus died for his sins. My Dad had a very peaceful passing and told us all that he loved us. He didn't seem to have unfinished business. He accepted the state of his health and was ready to go on to whatever God had in store for him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Don't waste time - We hadn't redecorated our bedroom or the kitchen since we moved into this house 14 years ago and I felt like I was wishing for things that could be done, but just not getting on with it. Dad taught me each day is precious, and time is short. So we finally just did it. My husband took 10 days off work and we just worked very very hard, staying up several nights until midnight to get it all finished. I posted before and after pics on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__thelittlehomestead__/</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/AVvXsEj2SL8FgFycTlxc-kQY5Shf3UtSlGXi-mWMuPkoUzktz59LFGPPs7yVHjIt567wA9bKWxMVW7H3fYIYCufcXY9cCFxlOTL3M992UCwuGrWnhAKDO2Qjs9wWjhe8o_z3k-uQ0hK5iwakxBw/s960/204011366_4522203054479483_3945126796767131274_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SL8FgFycTlxc-kQY5Shf3UtSlGXi-mWMuPkoUzktz59LFGPPs7yVHjIt567wA9bKWxMVW7H3fYIYCufcXY9cCFxlOTL3M992UCwuGrWnhAKDO2Qjs9wWjhe8o_z3k-uQ0hK5iwakxBw/w400-h400/204011366_4522203054479483_3945126796767131274_n.jpg" width="400" /></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/AVvXsEjnETawibHqU_VurRkdAsxNSK9ULSoszboqpz3GYD7AkCrxxSwID8DfKX6swfizuCccQXfPX7IfbiU89ZAV6jtqvP2eh9bnzOwqP0BHd3AYZWtBLr2CQwasVBwtF0_ceEG0dNGgIS5QUzI/s960/211760752_4522203307812791_980032135455661016_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnETawibHqU_VurRkdAsxNSK9ULSoszboqpz3GYD7AkCrxxSwID8DfKX6swfizuCccQXfPX7IfbiU89ZAV6jtqvP2eh9bnzOwqP0BHd3AYZWtBLr2CQwasVBwtF0_ceEG0dNGgIS5QUzI/w480-h640/211760752_4522203307812791_980032135455661016_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> ~with curtains up ~<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5cD8y2ZG2vl_9ihu0-xulA2hnBpf8FjdjubFgR_NJwebmht9G3rVd2mLdYTmbvWu8tv7ksJhay2y3XgiJGehcxip4BZ-UPiI6moPOmKuQ5iJ6PBSXnzhbpQUk-D72CEMsdgdS3ADDjs/s960/207037270_4522203524479436_1898908048253972891_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5cD8y2ZG2vl_9ihu0-xulA2hnBpf8FjdjubFgR_NJwebmht9G3rVd2mLdYTmbvWu8tv7ksJhay2y3XgiJGehcxip4BZ-UPiI6moPOmKuQ5iJ6PBSXnzhbpQUk-D72CEMsdgdS3ADDjs/w400-h400/207037270_4522203524479436_1898908048253972891_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I'll include pics of our room another time when the lighting is better. I also sewed all the curtains for the kitchen, French doors and our bedroom myself. It was quite a challenge for me as I am not an experienced seamstress. <div><br /><div>..continuing with final lessons learned:</div><div>7. Be confident in the final time that you have left to do things the way you want to do them. Don't worry if other people are disappointed or think you should plan a different funeral. It's your final moment and I think its right that the person dying should be able to choose how they want things to be. Dad has chosen to be cremated and have a simple service back at home. He wants a few hymns and for there to be just family and close friends (mostly family) to just enjoy time together celebrating Dads life and recalling memories. It surprised me that Dad wanted such a simple, no fuss sort of send off. But I see that a lot of older people choose this option at the end, foregoing fuss and crowds and just choose something simple and intimate.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~</div><div><br /></div><div>Well that's all for now friends, I just wanted to be able to mark my Dad's passing and share the things he taught me in the final years God gave him when he was declining. I loved my Dad with all my heart, even though I didn't always agree with the things he said at times or how he sometimes acted. I chose to love him anyway and take the bad with the good. Learning to tolerate and accept each others foibles makes life easier. We all have room for improvement and God loves us still. My Dad was a man of integrity, hard working and meticulous. He kept careful records. He saved his money, lived frugally, but also well. He planned and gave my siblings and I wonderful childhood memories of great holiday camping adventures, which still remain some of the best moments that I recall from my young life. He shared nearly every Christmas with our family and we will miss him greatly. Thank you for your life Dad xo and Love to you all ~ Linda</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaI8vWIF4rMrIH00rTgkd6o9VacUbWJ4O_GoHgCYZj0nuO4o52X7vjGg1EIqRNhUoCRONqTPg9krzmq7K7QqPpNhs6oX-QcQIjSAgdkH4VJE3Phl-2V_xEmZDI50ZY9RsNKYo3yaAWEE/s960/204557599_4522203434479445_6411489518954002190_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="649" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaI8vWIF4rMrIH00rTgkd6o9VacUbWJ4O_GoHgCYZj0nuO4o52X7vjGg1EIqRNhUoCRONqTPg9krzmq7K7QqPpNhs6oX-QcQIjSAgdkH4VJE3Phl-2V_xEmZDI50ZY9RsNKYo3yaAWEE/w432-h640/204557599_4522203434479445_6411489518954002190_n.jpg" width="432" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><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: center;"><br /></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: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-34013832783240084252021-05-09T00:45:00.000-07:002021-05-09T00:45:03.532-07:00Happy Mothers Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9jMj6ZFXkd2YGkgDdyj5cJnasreNYlbY-SlcxbQcxN2xHwfPnMPAhLk0IuAinufG9DXu1zRDB-LzY4a_p3U4yq2thQLc0BQUjzwo3pBkglxoaWGuiSS68aYQu64waiw16HduqG8HEUA/s594/630f36a54e5d54289f5e935972b3c452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9jMj6ZFXkd2YGkgDdyj5cJnasreNYlbY-SlcxbQcxN2xHwfPnMPAhLk0IuAinufG9DXu1zRDB-LzY4a_p3U4yq2thQLc0BQUjzwo3pBkglxoaWGuiSS68aYQu64waiw16HduqG8HEUA/w320-h400/630f36a54e5d54289f5e935972b3c452.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> To all my dear followers who are Mothers, I just wanted to pop by quick and say Happy Blessed Mothers Day.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvxvCTHbAv0gBq6cwy5qoa8O_qCKlpxg-XRySy2wcV0a4xbWET9JuW6jx345cW_wzv99tWq2Bcazsek8YjzPOocPqD3TB41UeWZ_6DJaQ3V_pT9zFxuYwFhQWYBxiBniH68XQ80P6Dhs/s550/william+kay+blacklock+-+1872+-+1922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="390" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvxvCTHbAv0gBq6cwy5qoa8O_qCKlpxg-XRySy2wcV0a4xbWET9JuW6jx345cW_wzv99tWq2Bcazsek8YjzPOocPqD3TB41UeWZ_6DJaQ3V_pT9zFxuYwFhQWYBxiBniH68XQ80P6Dhs/w284-h400/william+kay+blacklock+-+1872+-+1922.jpg" width="284" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm so thankful that even though my husband and I were very young when we had our first child, he was loved and welcomed into our hearts and homes. Since then followed another son and a wee daughter. Of course these children are all grown up now and have blessed us with beautiful grandchildren to love. Life is good.</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/AVvXsEgrrf5IVcRMpqlZm5_PAWBAX7PmWPsxX_REKy_u5n_r175s_-Hus9j5-xPg-yowOlPBECB6GcvBeXfd5cvABrcv_Y5F-XdIe2gEp9LvCG692c44HkJroSLAhHv1KGe-cE6UoqFazMKOTec/s563/5d04af002010ffd52b68d6efc570acb8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="563" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrf5IVcRMpqlZm5_PAWBAX7PmWPsxX_REKy_u5n_r175s_-Hus9j5-xPg-yowOlPBECB6GcvBeXfd5cvABrcv_Y5F-XdIe2gEp9LvCG692c44HkJroSLAhHv1KGe-cE6UoqFazMKOTec/s320/5d04af002010ffd52b68d6efc570acb8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I pray dear Mothers that your child or children showed you love and appreciation today. I know as Mothers we can be our hardest critics and think our children might be scarred for life for the times we lost patience or said a harsh word. No Mother is perfect all the time and most strive each day to do the best they can. </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/AVvXsEiP4CIVa1IGyz7mUEJGhKnf08DWTJbcKriaNVqL65mdGjo5jEqB89egSji1tfDIOYkJCG9wwZMpMXsQc05tCy1g3LOr8lK5T9Xc0oJtJZwTY01oEbSEO4ovvlmn-6QovzCit9chNCljJ0A/s700/b68a393f9190eafbbb77249c7cbf1dc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="495" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4CIVa1IGyz7mUEJGhKnf08DWTJbcKriaNVqL65mdGjo5jEqB89egSji1tfDIOYkJCG9wwZMpMXsQc05tCy1g3LOr8lK5T9Xc0oJtJZwTY01oEbSEO4ovvlmn-6QovzCit9chNCljJ0A/w283-h400/b68a393f9190eafbbb77249c7cbf1dc2.jpg" width="283" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All mothers want their children to do well in life, and to one day marry and have children. If your anything like me you've probably prayed a thousand prayers for your children. When you see them marry and then in turn become good parents, you feel like maybe you passed on something good after all, even if at times you felt like you didn't always know what you were doing - smile. </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/AVvXsEiisjviEwa7MZTlNYO_e2YW4SZ6ur-KLy9-TNRsM9lixclU0Qta80FykgUSkIUzXoo7kt-gAP5thTcDbIctC-kMa56AnFytI99pZ9lBPEFCEnsyXBwCLbLjATKdag7OdByC2RTg0DZ8A8M/s644/Elizabeth+Nourse+1859+-+1938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisjviEwa7MZTlNYO_e2YW4SZ6ur-KLy9-TNRsM9lixclU0Qta80FykgUSkIUzXoo7kt-gAP5thTcDbIctC-kMa56AnFytI99pZ9lBPEFCEnsyXBwCLbLjATKdag7OdByC2RTg0DZ8A8M/w350-h400/Elizabeth+Nourse+1859+-+1938.jpg" width="350" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's a blessing that this special day is still celebrated ! It's a blessing anytime a wee child is</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">loved and welcomed and protected when in the womb. Their is no place more sacred and it should always be a sanctuary for a developing child. When I'm out and about and I see Mothers speaking to their children in a loving way, it makes me so happy inside because I know those children will grow up well and have good self worth. </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/AVvXsEjRA6Bus_UEahp8cmD2ePjO04yBTzqnmrrUOo9TyuEkZanARse1v0xAxggzdlYWa15A1amYxRi_EqzKUBb53bTvRBVS-WDTtHXul_oFNdtbCJiuX6NHenJiEnKaYBwO1T6gFQIma_W-0FA/s580/7711e4a4ead866cc7726269d75faa502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRA6Bus_UEahp8cmD2ePjO04yBTzqnmrrUOo9TyuEkZanARse1v0xAxggzdlYWa15A1amYxRi_EqzKUBb53bTvRBVS-WDTtHXul_oFNdtbCJiuX6NHenJiEnKaYBwO1T6gFQIma_W-0FA/w389-h400/7711e4a4ead866cc7726269d75faa502.jpg" width="389" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It doesn't matter how humble your home is, but only how big your heart is, how loving your arms are, and how gentle your words are that they hear. When I reflect on myself as a young mother, I sometimes think I could do a better job now, but that's only because I have grown and matured through being a mother and not the other way around. </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/AVvXsEhzKwGe_NfFnjGvv1HYYvfEIkahgvGcoWOFJwVYDLJTWYdBo240Ot3R-o1CBOLCEQi_fyrp_JrZBc5zHnd_NwzbOeiw2qWaDzsuOQdvPPpT8mDp5l375OYHAS3uuHJQcprW_lDAgeS1y7U/s606/a783925d7266fa6bf0f8051af5bbd129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="447" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKwGe_NfFnjGvv1HYYvfEIkahgvGcoWOFJwVYDLJTWYdBo240Ot3R-o1CBOLCEQi_fyrp_JrZBc5zHnd_NwzbOeiw2qWaDzsuOQdvPPpT8mDp5l375OYHAS3uuHJQcprW_lDAgeS1y7U/w295-h400/a783925d7266fa6bf0f8051af5bbd129.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our children are very dear to us and I consider it a great privilege to be called mother. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It brings me enormous joy to watch our own daughter grow as a wife and mother and even be inspired by the selfless choices she continues to make and to see our daughters in law also grow to become beautiful mothers. I consider it a high calling and a very worthy work of Love to be a Mother.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Much love to you all ~ Linda xo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><p><br /></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-62353284236655455162021-04-08T14:42:00.007-07:002021-04-08T15:10:43.207-07:00Changing Seasons<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hMEJ_X9KUmD-dzSxbwWqI6HyOyHkNeSwm5zSYGQAVZ6u3RHbyOfr1SBSeT2C6JCjbOLivEoVzB07lpR-tZ0sLoyYanB71iTsYC3JwJqyT-1DU2VbNnLe7RUYidI1dM8TkhmP4u8Y6XI/s640/b25lY21zOmQ0YzMyODA3LTlhNTUtNDRhOS1hZDEyLWRiMDg4YTdkZGQzMTo2ZDlmMDZjOS05NTA1LTQ4YWMtODhkNS1iYzAyZTc5Y2Q0NjU%253D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hMEJ_X9KUmD-dzSxbwWqI6HyOyHkNeSwm5zSYGQAVZ6u3RHbyOfr1SBSeT2C6JCjbOLivEoVzB07lpR-tZ0sLoyYanB71iTsYC3JwJqyT-1DU2VbNnLe7RUYidI1dM8TkhmP4u8Y6XI/w400-h268/b25lY21zOmQ0YzMyODA3LTlhNTUtNDRhOS1hZDEyLWRiMDg4YTdkZGQzMTo2ZDlmMDZjOS05NTA1LTQ4YWMtODhkNS1iYzAyZTc5Y2Q0NjU%253D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div> Hello :) and happy belated Easter to you all,<div><div>I know as a Christian the birth of Christ, the death, burial and resurrection and Pentecost are the most significant events we get to celebrate, reflect on and give thanks for. I pray that this Easter for you was a memorable and joyful time. A time when you were able to be lifted up from earthly concerns and simply focus on all that Christ has done for you.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFKnIA0WLzweekateYiTjeA2phPDSqWPC5xqESryUJKIy_plEf5MofGN9FufbQRgKEmvv7aot8d_P3nm7PdkGJCzi8aZmgMzBV7OE84de0lLQyzodzEBLwFSsuOKleJd8N8zttJFt3F4/s1000/57561056_2823712424335389_4248757515229069312_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFKnIA0WLzweekateYiTjeA2phPDSqWPC5xqESryUJKIy_plEf5MofGN9FufbQRgKEmvv7aot8d_P3nm7PdkGJCzi8aZmgMzBV7OE84de0lLQyzodzEBLwFSsuOKleJd8N8zttJFt3F4/w640-h400/57561056_2823712424335389_4248757515229069312_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">In my corner of the world we celebrated this way: On Sunday we hosted our little house church here (we meet in different homes) and a wonderful message was shared about the Passover and how the Israelites needed to obey God's command to put the blood of a firstborn, year old lamb or goat over the doorposts of their house so the angel of death would pass-over their homes and no one would die. Then their was an explanation of how Jesus is our Passover Lamb today. When we participate in taking communion, Jesus blood covers and protects us. When God looks at us He sees us as spotless, made righteous by His Son's blood and sacrificial death. It was a very meaningful, rich time of worship and fellowship. :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iZIRauZoGWYhgYJpdDF3L0ZYTuwzp67-BNGfF-d1Otd7RHURJo9lnUP3EbQVmcECDvjStJ1bmfRDwiJ9H81MzpJVp2DtAvLH8qYuyG9xKDFNO-zI4uAZWljvsJuqP-bQlDSKn8J9YdU/s500/passover-blood-on-doorposts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="375" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iZIRauZoGWYhgYJpdDF3L0ZYTuwzp67-BNGfF-d1Otd7RHURJo9lnUP3EbQVmcECDvjStJ1bmfRDwiJ9H81MzpJVp2DtAvLH8qYuyG9xKDFNO-zI4uAZWljvsJuqP-bQlDSKn8J9YdU/w480-h640/passover-blood-on-doorposts.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMaent0neQ5Vok4EofIqJj5l-dK-o2WoKKmT5EIIjr9LKhMHPz8p_vZEiKCjY7ReKHlA8ST09KuawzW3bkStnCjyCpORgkt2OJ6WfxWzgJmBD1DatDjgHVSNO0Uc_XMbUwJWngUeGVBM/s560/u4873_web.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="368" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMaent0neQ5Vok4EofIqJj5l-dK-o2WoKKmT5EIIjr9LKhMHPz8p_vZEiKCjY7ReKHlA8ST09KuawzW3bkStnCjyCpORgkt2OJ6WfxWzgJmBD1DatDjgHVSNO0Uc_XMbUwJWngUeGVBM/w420-h640/u4873_web.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scottish minister Horatius Bonar wrote: Upon a life I did not live, upon a death I did not die; another life, another death, I stake my whole eternity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I love this)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</div></div></div><div><p>In other news - It's Autumn here now, and it just happens to be my 2nd favourite season; Spring being my first. :) It's a wonderful drawing in sort of time for me and there's a slowing down that I relish. More time is spent indoors and less on the garden as things finish off out there. I'm not a hot weather girl anyway so the cooler days suit me very well too. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKnf7T3ivCSSb9inAoxFePr1HXaKIe_s3Oq4N0KP7BBm59m6DTsmfWoWy6dalqLFysvtburBSkTgl6F4LWUx8QGeticpcUaHfu7oiNdHlkdTv1uUKZsvUc8eiWPPf5F-q5U1Pr1T4nWs/s647/dd82c3aee22c3fc1f4cb7cc94e7516b3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKnf7T3ivCSSb9inAoxFePr1HXaKIe_s3Oq4N0KP7BBm59m6DTsmfWoWy6dalqLFysvtburBSkTgl6F4LWUx8QGeticpcUaHfu7oiNdHlkdTv1uUKZsvUc8eiWPPf5F-q5U1Pr1T4nWs/w494-h640/dd82c3aee22c3fc1f4cb7cc94e7516b3.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZ40D-73xU_ezxAUhnhTbSdCbuPrMgArI54MPUpKN3egfW7MWVMrb73MViU3RZGVvUMvDjhwD7Nf538FxrdSD5vdqoiYWYFbGQbrYzoII9aM_Bgb00vJuU6OcE4YW7-GSR6JAJIXgxII/s771/7c1b6f3bebf6ad233851f4baaf827ab2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZ40D-73xU_ezxAUhnhTbSdCbuPrMgArI54MPUpKN3egfW7MWVMrb73MViU3RZGVvUMvDjhwD7Nf538FxrdSD5vdqoiYWYFbGQbrYzoII9aM_Bgb00vJuU6OcE4YW7-GSR6JAJIXgxII/w469-h640/7c1b6f3bebf6ad233851f4baaf827ab2.jpg" width="469" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My mind slowly turns to warming foods such as soups and stews, to making sure blankets and quilts are washed and aired and also sorting through our wardrobes, putting away excess summer clothing to make room for bulkier Winter woollies. </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/AVvXsEg0azgNncmgCjkyLBE2dFX42S0yGFoqA9xE0af-9xx75RjhoNGOtYgx4ki-ikvdMg5dzKjZ8Q2UwDg5z6bDKfdJU-DIquYOKCQjw5e9kdY-G9nChQ_2Flc4YIyaGPwRlEmVPZ5C-dt9YSc/s846/4518151073e2e53ec7b08614fa7a3edd.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0azgNncmgCjkyLBE2dFX42S0yGFoqA9xE0af-9xx75RjhoNGOtYgx4ki-ikvdMg5dzKjZ8Q2UwDg5z6bDKfdJU-DIquYOKCQjw5e9kdY-G9nChQ_2Flc4YIyaGPwRlEmVPZ5C-dt9YSc/w426-h640/4518151073e2e53ec7b08614fa7a3edd.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLW2cgAqe6mqLAu32W_nJwB9qCC7FaktQ55Ji_9om1oNeflUvAylhyphenhyphenHKYWzBPxi2Gw6Kdrdj0vRGT5gG8s1D-wcwUefnRPieoOqxFJ5xWDl1j5Y96KDXnpwSecnZ7vSoBcOCmy1tq7hY/s752/40ef1c033220166fa7f0ec1fa77dd2c5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLW2cgAqe6mqLAu32W_nJwB9qCC7FaktQ55Ji_9om1oNeflUvAylhyphenhyphenHKYWzBPxi2Gw6Kdrdj0vRGT5gG8s1D-wcwUefnRPieoOqxFJ5xWDl1j5Y96KDXnpwSecnZ7vSoBcOCmy1tq7hY/w480-h640/40ef1c033220166fa7f0ec1fa77dd2c5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>On Good Friday we drove 3 hours to Lake Taupo for the day to pick up a large cupboard that we purchased for our bedroom. I've said in other posts that the storage in this old house was not very good, and as I'm the sort of person that likes everything to have it's place, its meant we've either purchased more storage cupboards or had extra things built. The wardrobe in our room is small - its divided into two sections (half mine, half my husbands) and I've always found it squashy and inadequate, so that's why we finally (after 14 years) purchased an extra one. The lady we bought it from said it was handmade by a Dutch man and I love it. It's very roomy and the drawers slide out well too. It's just perfect for what we need. I'm including some extra pics so you can see the set up. It's actually like a large cupboard with two big drawers at the bottom, so now I have plenty of room to store everything. </p><p>*Please excuse the hideous lime green stripe around the wall. We are yet to decorate this room lol :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAryPqUyjecQdK_H5PwyNOFKiKZS8hbkfa0Dogo4ea_xhrgdcBBP5LmF_Imle1VNgF228z3XsUDzfNeJXGTGZzEvI3z1R6tLwDc2lJfo4y-vblCpyvcPVsXo8bFgCCj71gMy166f4MZA/s960/168279705_4270534596312998_710223883849681730_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAryPqUyjecQdK_H5PwyNOFKiKZS8hbkfa0Dogo4ea_xhrgdcBBP5LmF_Imle1VNgF228z3XsUDzfNeJXGTGZzEvI3z1R6tLwDc2lJfo4y-vblCpyvcPVsXo8bFgCCj71gMy166f4MZA/w240-h320/168279705_4270534596312998_710223883849681730_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDmwkwmAsnFIsQpXvd-tUj8qI6-Kug5Xt2n2KhCQOmH4qw8NYwmAhCItP8CvyC1M5R3SnrpsXFGFFmbh0W3v2rD8XehnCM1YMb8gWeeV_hs0Y0MANPMFRKewr8T-AoA9Duyf_Ds2gyuQ/s960/169808158_4270534049646386_2804882398569266234_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDmwkwmAsnFIsQpXvd-tUj8qI6-Kug5Xt2n2KhCQOmH4qw8NYwmAhCItP8CvyC1M5R3SnrpsXFGFFmbh0W3v2rD8XehnCM1YMb8gWeeV_hs0Y0MANPMFRKewr8T-AoA9Duyf_Ds2gyuQ/w240-h320/169808158_4270534049646386_2804882398569266234_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div></div><p>My husband also added extra shelving in his little wardrobe for clothes and shoes (and he's happy with that much space) - men lol - and he has separate drawers for other clothes too. That's all my scarves hanging on the door :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-K2AfQ0rCbqky7RbjKxCnweC55X38I0RF-TAixtq_wdnlsMXYX5ZyIp8c9O6oqNVv-t8zVRZ8sNjYDQngl203CYpic_kIkkVRODnfiNOL_nnYBFSX048WN3NBL1CvprP1BC6TpbCmAo8/s960/170018002_4270533872979737_3583573908333011612_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-K2AfQ0rCbqky7RbjKxCnweC55X38I0RF-TAixtq_wdnlsMXYX5ZyIp8c9O6oqNVv-t8zVRZ8sNjYDQngl203CYpic_kIkkVRODnfiNOL_nnYBFSX048WN3NBL1CvprP1BC6TpbCmAo8/w480-h640/170018002_4270533872979737_3583573908333011612_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>It's all in an effort to reduce clutter, so I can vacuum easily and not have any shoes or other things on the floor to slow things down, or to gather dust. If you hadn't noticed organisation is one of my favourite things to do :) I've slowly worked my way through every room, cupboard, pantry, hot water cupboard etc in the house and I even tidied up the little area under the sink to make everything more assessable. Who else likes doing this sort of thing in their home? Is it only me, or does this sort of activity bring you a feeling of peace and calm as well? It's the orderliness of it all that I love too. I know exactly where a thing will be when needed so it saves time as I don't need to go in search of it :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloIpNSr_JPM7aB5JjzxQq09wD21qcTP4eMvNFQheCllzxTQAY7z0SYpBG09lcINNm3tyUV0jPUQg6hfzhyphenhyphenjqKUE-tkCU45x2cvRdhp3dQuwqdEUeQz5Q772gXlNdZajWvNQ-chBQsR4U/s750/8dd8a4b0d7cee481bbca90300c5f28b8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloIpNSr_JPM7aB5JjzxQq09wD21qcTP4eMvNFQheCllzxTQAY7z0SYpBG09lcINNm3tyUV0jPUQg6hfzhyphenhyphenjqKUE-tkCU45x2cvRdhp3dQuwqdEUeQz5Q772gXlNdZajWvNQ-chBQsR4U/w426-h640/8dd8a4b0d7cee481bbca90300c5f28b8.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just more Autumnal joyful images.... stacked firewood, plain biscuits filled with bran and spices, neatly trimmed hedges - all things I appreciate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2D0TMPAHf9C6LVfCG8YKDrilpNP4wYzhPCvh2zdJ96bFMpnH1DlSaaWpR1k3Y65zxX_boo5aHlYWh2b6BqGcQTMNyFJPEYJyx-tuTrS1K5fm-pJheLcrsd0rZZnHoF5c5TN283wVcHlE/s750/d4292d8e1527898b98b884f28f42b523.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2D0TMPAHf9C6LVfCG8YKDrilpNP4wYzhPCvh2zdJ96bFMpnH1DlSaaWpR1k3Y65zxX_boo5aHlYWh2b6BqGcQTMNyFJPEYJyx-tuTrS1K5fm-pJheLcrsd0rZZnHoF5c5TN283wVcHlE/w426-h640/d4292d8e1527898b98b884f28f42b523.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Autumn is a sensory experience too: I do love all it's sounds - the crunch of leaves underfoot, rain on the roof - especially at night and the crackle of the fire which will be lit as we get ever colder weather. I like feeling the wind on my face as I go outside to get the washing in or to pick a late apple. It's all good. It's seasons, its life and continuity. It's familiar and that brings me peace.</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/AVvXsEjoNh1IFkm1b15qgW5kZIXrcOh6jwQZ-ixZuwIEvvAltrrp9dwMqvnDcWZXSPGW41fuV0YFf_5l0di5_5fmn4ubLhVGBsXFjl1zjbMJtT7p-ynG7aOZblsgfuUv6KXvcSE-4q6vbwFFUZE/s362/775eae3fd594c1dd406c51c809df59f7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="362" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNh1IFkm1b15qgW5kZIXrcOh6jwQZ-ixZuwIEvvAltrrp9dwMqvnDcWZXSPGW41fuV0YFf_5l0di5_5fmn4ubLhVGBsXFjl1zjbMJtT7p-ynG7aOZblsgfuUv6KXvcSE-4q6vbwFFUZE/w400-h400/775eae3fd594c1dd406c51c809df59f7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</div><p>I felt my last post was a bit dreary (even though its my real life) and mostly just concerned my own health and that of my parents. I am very pleased to say mine has greatly improved, but my Dad still has ongoing health issues - because of his heart, diabetes and his age (80 yrs).</p><p>Over the past two years it's caused me to have to make changes in my life so that I can be more available to visit and support my mum and also take times of rest so my own health remains stable. I'm often one to balk at change, but really it's God's way of nudging me ever so gently to help me to reprioritise and to be available in a joyful way and not with a stressed or grudging spirit. It's meant I'm not as busy with my business (out of necessity) and I think that's a good thing too, as more balance has come back into my life. I'm getting my priorities right again. My home is cleaner and tidier too :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBcEoUv-1fdWxkRASy7tc-tRduRGABI-YUWuP1XLpFwfqkC4qZ07CjErp6ntfAlYtWFrqscJIpC3yJfYN7rMjijeMGX_rJ4MyZW-ckaHXtobFvRmXDSqdkVX9mifl8cXXVeyMACzN4-8/s640/0ebe6b55a6fa00bd91897f1abbc40ce4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="640" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBcEoUv-1fdWxkRASy7tc-tRduRGABI-YUWuP1XLpFwfqkC4qZ07CjErp6ntfAlYtWFrqscJIpC3yJfYN7rMjijeMGX_rJ4MyZW-ckaHXtobFvRmXDSqdkVX9mifl8cXXVeyMACzN4-8/w400-h279/0ebe6b55a6fa00bd91897f1abbc40ce4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>This year I consciously chose to not do as much preserving/canning at the end of summer as I've done in other years because I just didn't want to feel as stressed or weighed down with it all. I wanted to enjoy my days more and do other things, and I can tell you it's been good. As I said earlier I've mostly been focusing on cleaning and organising our home and helping my parents. </p><p>My ultimate goal is 'balance' in life, relationships and in the home. I want to have a place for everything, preferably in a cupboard or on a shelf and if theirs no room for it and we don't use it much, then it is given away or donated to the op shop/thrift store. I want to have more time for people and there needs. I need to take care of my health - it's a major investment... and I think it's working too :) Everything in my life is flowing better. I first started talking about al this a few years back, how I felt my life was out of balance and that I wanted change. I'm starting to see the fruit of all that effort now.</p><p>I like this quote by Sarah Young (based on scripture): Each moment you can choose to practice My Presence or to practice the presence of problems. </p><p>Problems won't actually just go away on their own (although sometimes they do :), but usually something needs to be done. My attitude and what I do about them is what's important. Having a plan is necessary. Being prayerful and purposeful each day is another vital key and having achievable goals means I will gradually make progress and good changes will come. The Lord has been helping me to be focused and I am grateful :)</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</p><p style="text-align: center;">Well I think I will close with a pic sweet little Freya in a splashy tub - our oldest son Max and his wife Marias wee girl, dear wee Isaac John (newest little grandson) and also one of Laura Joy and Poppy May. Don't they just bring so much joy, these little grandies. I think they are the icing on the cake of this life. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1u_hSRStenMs-Qz6dm2iFKBK_mxcJq1hrp8zv9vAzYaSAyVM90V4dhWDxzB-8luFhM77yuLaZ0om6sK-lyx-8-VfVvvSXrspaKQxqk2tSNzRYikgTHga6u_6aKWYfdI5qCTzRUdEecXE/s2048/135845961_818436739000408_5365942329775187372_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1u_hSRStenMs-Qz6dm2iFKBK_mxcJq1hrp8zv9vAzYaSAyVM90V4dhWDxzB-8luFhM77yuLaZ0om6sK-lyx-8-VfVvvSXrspaKQxqk2tSNzRYikgTHga6u_6aKWYfdI5qCTzRUdEecXE/s320/135845961_818436739000408_5365942329775187372_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtdZIzOdKMTUz-40cXJ5euMs_sT5mxrqb9an42KmFt4IrfmupykifCp4TYiDGb1Ayaete2HVO3-C7szXYeeuW4G9JatqGDq2_9IRkPd9CAei1uADue7ONUyqd8bFSDgYcprox0GbW1C0/s960/153948131_10157889963352267_8828686906073697218_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtdZIzOdKMTUz-40cXJ5euMs_sT5mxrqb9an42KmFt4IrfmupykifCp4TYiDGb1Ayaete2HVO3-C7szXYeeuW4G9JatqGDq2_9IRkPd9CAei1uADue7ONUyqd8bFSDgYcprox0GbW1C0/s320/153948131_10157889963352267_8828686906073697218_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLw9XxTSI5m7DlSs2rqtFdnQTC1Ag47c91ods90uzf3dyh2mTx8EDlyeuPvLwBC2RXcQesqwVyHjhLywQ13ec_daVnnR6pkfUHxhsSd9kpNsQXn6G9iadB-JpNqgcUbMGc9j6gZhjAMU/s564/1ac0cfc06156ce26fac3a8aa9e721691.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLw9XxTSI5m7DlSs2rqtFdnQTC1Ag47c91ods90uzf3dyh2mTx8EDlyeuPvLwBC2RXcQesqwVyHjhLywQ13ec_daVnnR6pkfUHxhsSd9kpNsQXn6G9iadB-JpNqgcUbMGc9j6gZhjAMU/s320/1ac0cfc06156ce26fac3a8aa9e721691.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnJP23VWb9MTrpkrB_HMeVsRTTiBK4G4mlWhIqOwgmMuNhoeKcTWcaW7aLPPPmtwFk6KpYRafe4f6BpyHa0xo3Mej8H37bwyug5NiC8boO-7IhOAsopzAwjCJ7J_ozJmeAFw9NYscQ8Q/s564/b6203024da2779312783a08414c79c15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnJP23VWb9MTrpkrB_HMeVsRTTiBK4G4mlWhIqOwgmMuNhoeKcTWcaW7aLPPPmtwFk6KpYRafe4f6BpyHa0xo3Mej8H37bwyug5NiC8boO-7IhOAsopzAwjCJ7J_ozJmeAFw9NYscQ8Q/s320/b6203024da2779312783a08414c79c15.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Poppy and Laura Joy ~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">eating Smores.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8lNrN_iD_7Db3o-CthwG3UIYRP9k667KG8tkPCbIhnPt366Ot-l0RuTiBv57ppmT_iPsUdk4wzT22xouHwC5Lc5LE2GCK_3P391K_8Nk1gEd6uJS6DqmqLYe9vsrY1HWOKY9l0uEDSDE/s564/dea7036692388aa28147810e7d33627a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8lNrN_iD_7Db3o-CthwG3UIYRP9k667KG8tkPCbIhnPt366Ot-l0RuTiBv57ppmT_iPsUdk4wzT22xouHwC5Lc5LE2GCK_3P391K_8Nk1gEd6uJS6DqmqLYe9vsrY1HWOKY9l0uEDSDE/w400-h400/dea7036692388aa28147810e7d33627a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>*Be blessed and thank you so much for stopping by. I appreciate you all so much xox ~ Linda</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia35skItxcu0IVcMxk8WV1CdwXFbUseyCgg4V_ahqtzILfk_8-VLWOXYPsDyCdIKtxD2PJw58uMJzlMlyGhlbpF2_5G6ql8hbDK5dGBQjVaTkfZDmtq_M8nTZOhZqDESVt6ra1lWzK6NU/s682/1c3d3b09e83017d3e7621102d9773cbc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="477" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia35skItxcu0IVcMxk8WV1CdwXFbUseyCgg4V_ahqtzILfk_8-VLWOXYPsDyCdIKtxD2PJw58uMJzlMlyGhlbpF2_5G6ql8hbDK5dGBQjVaTkfZDmtq_M8nTZOhZqDESVt6ra1lWzK6NU/w280-h400/1c3d3b09e83017d3e7621102d9773cbc.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-56620814543012488952021-02-26T14:46:00.004-08:002021-02-26T23:25:48.999-08:00Feeling Poorly<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkocY-StZMGBSoknu0lGHHXyn7PjXMjDBQPi-LOfnPkSlrh5rqnu9TvCNHRe0yxIHIhyphenhypheneCYw8aiHa1W25ZVUpKI0p_5Kwwrv9GqUS1MeDJJpain_1fEtdwie3_xiC5XQ7RKyVUIFRQqNU/s500/Colin+Campbell+Cooper+-+Hollyhocks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="425" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkocY-StZMGBSoknu0lGHHXyn7PjXMjDBQPi-LOfnPkSlrh5rqnu9TvCNHRe0yxIHIhyphenhypheneCYw8aiHa1W25ZVUpKI0p_5Kwwrv9GqUS1MeDJJpain_1fEtdwie3_xiC5XQ7RKyVUIFRQqNU/w340-h400/Colin+Campbell+Cooper+-+Hollyhocks.jpg" width="340" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Colin Campbell - Cooper 'Hollyhocks'</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Shalom, Sorry it's been a month since I last wrote anything. It's been a busy time, blessed and also challenging. My only daughter had her 5th baby one month ago; their first little boy. He was delivered by 'C' section, which wasn't what was planned. She'd originally wanted a home birth, but through a series of events, which can only be put down to the Lord very firmly having His hand on our daughter, Isaac John was born at the hospital. He was breech and foot first. A home birth could have been disastrous as they live in the country. Here in the picture below, little Isaac is one month old, such a wee treasure and showered in kisses every day from all his sisters. Isn't God good !</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ge5efl9dk00GIkbf39zzz6drbvExpmcBD2pC8M8UIytMhtRVIKRnSldNtvZc2TRC5xDZ_jeET4RpidSJ09BT6dG2pB0mjwYRO9w_Gq-uLvz8poLbAxbnRlg8KhylENx7hFg35WZv940/s960/152038547_10157889963717267_5992967482235066104_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ge5efl9dk00GIkbf39zzz6drbvExpmcBD2pC8M8UIytMhtRVIKRnSldNtvZc2TRC5xDZ_jeET4RpidSJ09BT6dG2pB0mjwYRO9w_Gq-uLvz8poLbAxbnRlg8KhylENx7hFg35WZv940/s320/152038547_10157889963717267_5992967482235066104_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here at the homestead I got some sort of virus just after baby was born. I haven't been tested but don't believe it to be Covid, as there are no cases in our area and I haven't been anywhere. As I have asthma, any kind of cold/bug that I get inevitably goes to my chest, sucks all the life/energy out of me and it takes quite some time for me to get back on my feet with the full energy I had previously. This particular virus which I am still getting over put me in bed for four days and even now almost 3 weeks later my energy levels are still low. I'm eating well, take multivitamins, vitamin C, Zinc etc you name it I'm on it :) but still I'm zapped. I know from previous episodes like this the best thing to ensure a full and lasting recovery is rest...REST.....rest. A little sunshine, fresh air and light exercise, if it's a warm day with no cold wind is okay and beneficial too. My problem though is my life is so full and busy with commitments that I just can't take weeks to get fully well? Do other people have this problem? I believe it to be quite common, especially for busy mums, people who work outside the home and or work from home. We just don't rest like we need to. </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/AVvXsEg0EmX5koCI9bciBMTJVBNMHxZXY9H61RpiS2FtJY3wWP7oy4TElHkxq48l0_4t12t31tfztDQ4DnfSQy5RQCd4a7JpRAmPyevLddbTTVBPSuKy9rK1v6T__zFv2N6qOj2o493ANcdusAI/s588/portrait_helga_artists_daught_hi.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EmX5koCI9bciBMTJVBNMHxZXY9H61RpiS2FtJY3wWP7oy4TElHkxq48l0_4t12t31tfztDQ4DnfSQy5RQCd4a7JpRAmPyevLddbTTVBPSuKy9rK1v6T__zFv2N6qOj2o493ANcdusAI/w306-h400/portrait_helga_artists_daught_hi.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The other problem is there is no one to do the jobs if I'm not up to task. Please understand I do have a wonderful husband and he does help where he can with simple meals and some housework when I am very sick...but illness just messes with my head. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The only saving grace I have is prayer and knowing I can talk away to God about it all as much as I need. His word too is a great comfort to me and most often you will find me in the psalms. The way David prayed and laid it all out before the Lord assures me that I may as well just say what's on my heart as He knows anyway :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~</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/AVvXsEiZWkv_xqVmoPSISTum2enCFyQKKOXWoAQ7lqu8ITD3fQ-LFnAmCGdsRUT0ohep1SyVGcHdl7RnWKA-izBfdDZyQO6rxsGrCuEAwzEECx-QhywOi7olWcSKavKDPXb0vmTa6k4nptHByfs/s900/sewing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="765" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWkv_xqVmoPSISTum2enCFyQKKOXWoAQ7lqu8ITD3fQ-LFnAmCGdsRUT0ohep1SyVGcHdl7RnWKA-izBfdDZyQO6rxsGrCuEAwzEECx-QhywOi7olWcSKavKDPXb0vmTa6k4nptHByfs/w340-h400/sewing.jpg" width="340" /></a></div><div><br /></div>One of the days when I was in bed I was just so exhausted, and knew that we needed to eat something healthy, so I just dragged myself out of bed and put the crockpot on. I made chicken soup with as many vegetables as I could stuff in it, herbs, beans, split peas etc. We ate from that for several days. I even froze some of it...and yet the bug lingered on. But life carry's on and showers need to be cleaned, floors need to be mopped, washing must be kept up with...home business orders must be packaged, product needs to be made etc. In between doing chores, I made a cup of tea and sat on the couch until I had some energy to carry on again. <div>On top of that my father went back into hospital and so my poor mum needs supporting and encouragement. He's out of hospital again now, but terribly thin and mum cares for him like a nurse. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A4Xqu8F90T2PlV3_Z7Qs947GHsp_5FjSxvahxjQIS4C6OKtcyxOjgwlBMqmwTc80LnseBjQ6Mq1DJvc0mu73kJS_SRqWewJPPxE8N2nj7sj8ZQGV2sqxeHCNU2FmawzQkD6h0m2APS0/s900/900_The+sick+man.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="900" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A4Xqu8F90T2PlV3_Z7Qs947GHsp_5FjSxvahxjQIS4C6OKtcyxOjgwlBMqmwTc80LnseBjQ6Mq1DJvc0mu73kJS_SRqWewJPPxE8N2nj7sj8ZQGV2sqxeHCNU2FmawzQkD6h0m2APS0/w400-h318/900_The+sick+man.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Oh Lord, you are my only strength, the one in whom I look to each and every day. Come in your power. Your word says by your stripes we are healed. I stand on those promises and speak them over so many other people I know, my dad and even my own self. Lord heal our Land, take away this scourge of disease from our world, that's caused such havoc and untold misery and grief. So much uncertainty..yet Oh Lord I seek your face, I trust in your unfailing love. I know my troubles, my bad breathing will eventually get better...I know these days that I have to drag myself though, where even just making the dinner requires a great effort will pass...health will return. You are ever so faithful God. I know this to be true, even though discouragement tries to camp outside the door of my heart and make me feel like I can't cope; I know leaning on you, and with encouragement from Holy Spirit you get me through. The sun rises on a new day. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC53jgcEtZlMbyynub8Oy7atbGra9HVDVoT6-pJWZl4nCPVbY7B2-HKw8MFViolrySR_MbF9GBMSSF4utN9UhYzQAGvplVpBhERkyKCUJdhsSLHH9g1zjNCFOmD6CiYV9lFXVfnzrPZME/s600/8a0fe059755446de15dbd621c0fb2158.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="445" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC53jgcEtZlMbyynub8Oy7atbGra9HVDVoT6-pJWZl4nCPVbY7B2-HKw8MFViolrySR_MbF9GBMSSF4utN9UhYzQAGvplVpBhERkyKCUJdhsSLHH9g1zjNCFOmD6CiYV9lFXVfnzrPZME/w296-h400/8a0fe059755446de15dbd621c0fb2158.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm still cooking, baking and caring for my family, trying to help my daughter, endeavouring to phone and let our other children know we love them and pray for them every day. These days are just not easy. I can't lament on and on about the difficulties, the tiredness when my lungs don't work as good. People get tired of hearing about it. But God sees and understands :) His ear is always attentive. He is only LOVE. I hope this little piece of writing isn't too dreary. I truly hope someone else who may have Asthma/allergies, who knows the exhaustion at times, will be encouraged to pour there troubles out to God, to rest in His loving arms.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Linda xo</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> </div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-83663006315278010922021-01-25T11:59:00.003-08:002021-01-25T12:02:31.063-08:00So True<p> Hi everyone, just popping on here quickly to share a quote that was in my inbox today...when I read it..I said out loud "so true !!" You might appreciate it's wisdom too. </p><h2 style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #565656; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> A Longer Lens, by Collin Huber</span></h2><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px;">One of the advantages that comes with age is the ability to view life through a longer lens. I’ve witnessed this in grandparents and other seniors who have played influential roles in my life. Without their model, I don’t know where I would have learned to believe that a prodigal child can be restored; that marriage is a gift of grace, even in hard seasons; that hope for calmer waters in difficult times is no trivial posture, but a mighty act of faith.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDecAex7cSVBApCvl6UCdJ7YaV3r9EApgRxm2JEPZpn1w5NSAQfB7N2_xFLqHd6WyT9LA0h2IN0lk6_Pw9Q6w2AeyCHdH_lqEcWUSs7tdL9kw0UiDqo6yLU3pugLZSsmY_Ta8D0P6oB34/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="400" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDecAex7cSVBApCvl6UCdJ7YaV3r9EApgRxm2JEPZpn1w5NSAQfB7N2_xFLqHd6WyT9LA0h2IN0lk6_Pw9Q6w2AeyCHdH_lqEcWUSs7tdL9kw0UiDqo6yLU3pugLZSsmY_Ta8D0P6oB34/w400-h286/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZy7gYQNV28qZsToZU6QONLU17c0ObjT_ZAx5C4auI6Jq8-JNij0c9bw2u5BrB8hikbsFJcnKBe4muxxDXYf-I9nc7dWbWLqGyn1iEf_eX5yFclG4k_zK4wNVpJT6f74MPA4Z2k4qmro/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="285" data-original-width="380" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZy7gYQNV28qZsToZU6QONLU17c0ObjT_ZAx5C4auI6Jq8-JNij0c9bw2u5BrB8hikbsFJcnKBe4muxxDXYf-I9nc7dWbWLqGyn1iEf_eX5yFclG4k_zK4wNVpJT6f74MPA4Z2k4qmro/w400-h300/image.png" width="400" /></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/AVvXsEhHsYKZppa7WQw7AkLvbFhgiLlHrrtf5uCz9CdLE6E0njFD_X0D2C4r-yG8KkV96vU7beMzFDaMl2nwdhRO575jUJrK76BSeQtcPtcJJluiHDoeFp4hjfCXYRenv5LM3UbOUxy9bwWAVd8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="504" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsYKZppa7WQw7AkLvbFhgiLlHrrtf5uCz9CdLE6E0njFD_X0D2C4r-yG8KkV96vU7beMzFDaMl2nwdhRO575jUJrK76BSeQtcPtcJJluiHDoeFp4hjfCXYRenv5LM3UbOUxy9bwWAVd8/w400-h297/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rCGkZxWgDXq-QapLkqrNHpqZNA2YoqJAz-vMWGTtNyxJiCcr3ojUutoatAmDANMvywmCn2Szwu4cVzeaBig_mMtbff1K9V-S9xMVMuWjF9yWuUjhloKILe-6SVmQqU7ybgDz98LHa10/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="400" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rCGkZxWgDXq-QapLkqrNHpqZNA2YoqJAz-vMWGTtNyxJiCcr3ojUutoatAmDANMvywmCn2Szwu4cVzeaBig_mMtbff1K9V-S9xMVMuWjF9yWuUjhloKILe-6SVmQqU7ybgDz98LHa10/w400-h397/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The image of this elderly couple out for a walk brought this to my imagination: They live in a small retirement home now, but are walking past their old large home they once owned, that they raised a family in. At once the wife is transported back in time and can see it all over again as if it was yesterday. She can hardly pull herself away.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Be blessed everyone, love those in your life,</div><div style="text-align: center;">with all the time you have.</div><div style="text-align: center;">xo ~ Linda</div><p></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-69513518266193311412021-01-20T12:05:00.001-08:002021-01-20T12:05:15.487-08:00Once Upon a Time ....words<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7l_vGq20ooUF8bTmM5JT1QE_CBg7dIln60qQiSryonMiyze1q95cD3BhQpE8bJ4m7FD6CPOp9zf_7vc5M0BODuACgey9UvqSPqPZtxzQuzi9p1zDlv8I4tNa_6P3cCqWxEMoeDdbypYY/s705/letterwriter-by-johanne-mathilde-dietrichson-norwegian-1837-1921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7l_vGq20ooUF8bTmM5JT1QE_CBg7dIln60qQiSryonMiyze1q95cD3BhQpE8bJ4m7FD6CPOp9zf_7vc5M0BODuACgey9UvqSPqPZtxzQuzi9p1zDlv8I4tNa_6P3cCqWxEMoeDdbypYY/w512-h640/letterwriter-by-johanne-mathilde-dietrichson-norwegian-1837-1921.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Letter Writer - by Joanne Mathilde - Dietrichson</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello dear readers,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I spent time with the Lord this morning the thought of 'words' was heavy on my heart. I wrote this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We are living in extreme times....'words' are rampant, opinions are held up as 'our freedom', slandering is common, hatred and defamation are everywhere. Words are no longer measured.</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/AVvXsEiIgLFrlr8LNEBDcR8dTKAiblQjQ_frN7CHEcfl9KSFxdPu_aDurNrfnwKYFzNeDRGg1KICLkwxEx0to-tMC7DNxAMrdcLvM2qGNG8uKNJPV5vBnguVv66GLHWYp7M1c3LsbDN8U0VIJo4/s807/The-Reply-by-Auguste-Toulmouche-n.d.-via-Musee-des-Beaux-Arts-e1504160630682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="807" data-original-width="620" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgLFrlr8LNEBDcR8dTKAiblQjQ_frN7CHEcfl9KSFxdPu_aDurNrfnwKYFzNeDRGg1KICLkwxEx0to-tMC7DNxAMrdcLvM2qGNG8uKNJPV5vBnguVv66GLHWYp7M1c3LsbDN8U0VIJo4/w493-h640/The-Reply-by-Auguste-Toulmouche-n.d.-via-Musee-des-Beaux-Arts-e1504160630682.jpg" width="493" /></a></div><p>Once upon a time the only way to communicate was via a visit or a letter. If a letter was written, one could read it over when it was finished. Once the words were on the paper, sometimes the venom, the hurt had been squeezed out of us and we might sit back and think or say "Oh I can't say that, I could never send that". </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HQ5TuQo2-fZj-yvDVqK-V8gGV4lgD6jwhHaMFybgiInEMfr6kBxKIXMD4g5hrMf4eLCBeiWNucYEH4mo8fiZ3clPbwsHM-iYSQK2pq-GzJcWOLh1J9Z7dqG9yvxmnWq4yCRN3sSCOCY/s1600/William+Maw+Egley+-+The+Letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1238" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HQ5TuQo2-fZj-yvDVqK-V8gGV4lgD6jwhHaMFybgiInEMfr6kBxKIXMD4g5hrMf4eLCBeiWNucYEH4mo8fiZ3clPbwsHM-iYSQK2pq-GzJcWOLh1J9Z7dqG9yvxmnWq4yCRN3sSCOCY/w496-h640/William+Maw+Egley+-+The+Letter.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><p>However once that letter went in the post, the mail box, there was no way to stop it, to remove it, to take it back. </p><p>The next day one may 'feel differently'. Anger might have abated, prayer will have helped. Time...even just time would bring with it clarity and perspective. Maybe we would see the situation in a different way, new light might be shed on it.</p><p>However if the letter was sent the damage would be unstoppable. There was no telegram, no texting, no phoning, no internet. If we had that moment back again and we 'paused', giving thought to the repurcussions and the hurt that the 'letter' - our thoughts, our words might cause another soul 'mentally', 'spiritually' and no doubt 'emotionally', would we send it?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-N4CNfGrdi2-S6O-1jMBPfL9_5ZI-Yxk288CPwQmZHTMZ1DyqBp_tX1BpQRugxHPwU7K2SGafEs1BB1CvFrqxSqMLeBbTMIJz0x8mWqYnauFpTa00CV0eVP40qdh_PhsEJkyvE-HmRD0/s784/Thomas+Benjamin+Kennington+%25281856-1916%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-N4CNfGrdi2-S6O-1jMBPfL9_5ZI-Yxk288CPwQmZHTMZ1DyqBp_tX1BpQRugxHPwU7K2SGafEs1BB1CvFrqxSqMLeBbTMIJz0x8mWqYnauFpTa00CV0eVP40qdh_PhsEJkyvE-HmRD0/w460-h640/Thomas+Benjamin+Kennington+%25281856-1916%2529.jpg" width="460" /></a></div><p>Like I said at the start we are living in callous times. Words are being used for evil intent, to tear down and destroy. Maybe without realising it fully 'words' can become arrows in the enemies hands. May we instead be a fragrant aroma, writing words that encourage and bring life.</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~</p><p>Be blessed, I pray this encouraged or helped someone this day. And please take a moment to pause before writing or hitting send. Let all we say and do be for His glory alone and strive to help in any way to bring joy, peace and love to another this day.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ Linda x</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jAbOAHBHIUbr1avVLNvP7hWxNL3jbT5aehNioNzzgcwCXq1Rop8ANfm_0sz4VWl05iWKvZ0oszRfzA5UM-Soqe0iakvQvJpiG3vvbP5KOahNuA41HvIq3Y3FRm7W9BR-Cb4LIbCTgwI/s944/yes-or-no-by-charles-west-cope-1872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="766" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jAbOAHBHIUbr1avVLNvP7hWxNL3jbT5aehNioNzzgcwCXq1Rop8ANfm_0sz4VWl05iWKvZ0oszRfzA5UM-Soqe0iakvQvJpiG3vvbP5KOahNuA41HvIq3Y3FRm7W9BR-Cb4LIbCTgwI/w325-h400/yes-or-no-by-charles-west-cope-1872.jpg" width="325" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~ Yes or No, by Charles West - Cope 1872 ~</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Further reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>J A M E S Chapter 3 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Taming the Tongue</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">3 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Two Kinds of Wisdom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness</div></div><p><br /></p>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-7253642286940349932021-01-08T23:07:00.008-08:002021-01-08T23:46:26.051-08:00Just do the next thing<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD5nEb_JrtrzrXLSW9weBrGCHwO1csphuThEsn4cVN8HjpCvY1ctJ7VtkYedJHAOKBDtziGd3lp-2VVjCJkr4QqpvbFgcYNmqhIqDBG1KREVkDspszgQchGcSbfca42ARwxKHlt-zx18/s512/165a7c383ae4c8b8834dd3bb22abc816.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="512" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD5nEb_JrtrzrXLSW9weBrGCHwO1csphuThEsn4cVN8HjpCvY1ctJ7VtkYedJHAOKBDtziGd3lp-2VVjCJkr4QqpvbFgcYNmqhIqDBG1KREVkDspszgQchGcSbfca42ARwxKHlt-zx18/w558-h446/165a7c383ae4c8b8834dd3bb22abc816.jpg" width="558" /></a></div><p>Hi everyone, I just wanted to write and encourage anyone who may be feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. I know events that have happened in our world over the last year with the virus, unemployment, political woes, personal burdens, financial worries, health concerns or even just being unsure of the future. There are so many things that can strip away our inner peace and take our eyes of God.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMZ4CsinrgbVYc4G7kH00fFg1pyIeD9YUn__QFlKFTtm6Clvql3cw5ITr1_pNkdzEmsv8w_AV1cghpQRfA-gRkF4ARid8lEAogta9-U4g14MBZf6o_QEbKNLUEP_aJOubYxFvLYsSXSc/s615/3ed35dec1c0230476d7e5a18c443d64e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="486" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMZ4CsinrgbVYc4G7kH00fFg1pyIeD9YUn__QFlKFTtm6Clvql3cw5ITr1_pNkdzEmsv8w_AV1cghpQRfA-gRkF4ARid8lEAogta9-U4g14MBZf6o_QEbKNLUEP_aJOubYxFvLYsSXSc/w506-h640/3ed35dec1c0230476d7e5a18c443d64e.jpg" width="506" /></a></div><p>I remember a time a few years ago when life was quite hard for various reasons, I was praying to the Lord and reading His word and I felt impressed upon me quite clearly to keep on doing what I always do, which was reading His word, seeking Him in prayer, walking in faith, believing he's in control and just doing the next thing that needed to be done.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgpu5dmtimwnQrEJEsD6Ve2U-PVgxBMEars40yodVN3KRmk3UCUpu14ng8_Xp0vlW4fgYkgz1Ba0GZ1REJr6EF9_t80X_Rd1dszYzgvIeMI_TuReP4tTE9orSQIwn9lnLjxNzkn5OXiE/s2048/IMG_2668.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgpu5dmtimwnQrEJEsD6Ve2U-PVgxBMEars40yodVN3KRmk3UCUpu14ng8_Xp0vlW4fgYkgz1Ba0GZ1REJr6EF9_t80X_Rd1dszYzgvIeMI_TuReP4tTE9orSQIwn9lnLjxNzkn5OXiE/w400-h266/IMG_2668.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And do you know what? it worked. It took my mind of things and put my thoughts back onto caring for my husband, looking after our home, and thinking about others. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This week I felt some of those burdens reappear, I felt a bit weighed down and couldn't really put my my finger on why? So do you know what I did? I just got busy :) I cleaned my house, I washed windows (hey if your windows are dirty, your outlook is skewed anyway!), I took down curtains and put them through the washer, scrubbed down the verandah, pulled weeds in the garden and now that the week is over I feel accomplished and the house feels clean and loved. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My husband said how nice and tidy and clean everything looks. I consider it my job/role anyway to be a Keeper of the Home and to do that with love and attention. It really is a full time job to do it well.</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/AVvXsEjxZ9yTPdtxXD8i0sv6Fh2VjjrpjlzWZaERmwE5CKBwTXnWDYW-Os1kWzGpK9w4iU1jaYMe4EVKRgBVFQmCTC9F4sEJu4QXgSNCDMMqVwLMpFg2l1q4JRKv7_OZvqMHtkgGSK9B1tXfPcE/s564/954b4d8191b9472a03c6d1e259e35db2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="564" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZ9yTPdtxXD8i0sv6Fh2VjjrpjlzWZaERmwE5CKBwTXnWDYW-Os1kWzGpK9w4iU1jaYMe4EVKRgBVFQmCTC9F4sEJu4QXgSNCDMMqVwLMpFg2l1q4JRKv7_OZvqMHtkgGSK9B1tXfPcE/w640-h466/954b4d8191b9472a03c6d1e259e35db2.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;">However...I know a clean house isn't going to fix the worlds problems, but I also know me getting down because of it all or anything else in life isn't going to help much either. The only thing I really have any control over is right here and right now and how I live in this moment. So this day I purpose to have a good attitude, to make my home a welcoming space, to bake something delicious and have it in the tins for my husband, to put clean sheets on our bed and just do the best I can to make life comfortable for Him (which gives me joy anyway). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I truly hope this little word will help someone today. As woman theirs so many things which can ruffle our feathers such as hormones, misbehaving children, ageing parents, feeling overwhelmed with what needs doing, commitments, the list goes on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I think it's good to just get busy, spend some time with the Lord first and then focus on what needs doing, do one thing at a time and try to do that well. Don't try to do everything at once, or if your like me nothing will get done very well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYyTScPQIUFXMhKmk61saLBKNi1w6UTM9t0Z4G9uAiKjvPcxEhA4sK1zr_rP1gkFTcLQXs6au04SDzs4XentSVI5BwjTsyYWFmdjZO1V-qEUEnMxcIBd6Hkyo52aQIBhiR1-WQJ7mOXc/s331/59623f6f9b3227bf4dbb0c2eea18ba7d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="220" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYyTScPQIUFXMhKmk61saLBKNi1w6UTM9t0Z4G9uAiKjvPcxEhA4sK1zr_rP1gkFTcLQXs6au04SDzs4XentSVI5BwjTsyYWFmdjZO1V-qEUEnMxcIBd6Hkyo52aQIBhiR1-WQJ7mOXc/w426-h640/59623f6f9b3227bf4dbb0c2eea18ba7d.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVTBWkca0lsNufyngZmUJ-2AZS-MzeqflqkzMoT_mKLx1m49_sBbNmZ0ffmedd0bJFRdd56OhPISLDZVXPZQQ3qXH81-LxkvZe5NdTKD0xW3F25wHZUxfexhQanq7_2QjPcEFFeWvuGw/s576/a+%252813%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="432" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVTBWkca0lsNufyngZmUJ-2AZS-MzeqflqkzMoT_mKLx1m49_sBbNmZ0ffmedd0bJFRdd56OhPISLDZVXPZQQ3qXH81-LxkvZe5NdTKD0xW3F25wHZUxfexhQanq7_2QjPcEFFeWvuGw/w480-h640/a+%252813%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Each day I make a list and then at the end of the day I tick off things I got done. If I don't achieve it all that's okay as there's always tomorrow. The sun will rise on a new day. Keeping busy stops my mid from lingering on negative things and I also send little prayers up to the Lord while I'm at it !!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blessings to you all - Linda x</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF1wVzCg5y_kjWykL0mYk3Fh6IYSNB9Mr-i3qdTJxisFeaXmTRe6RVvd7lCcAtOXhqgRyQbKdFRjTKfO0o19FeTEY8xNTizr3E8hndQ35s19A103gb_RdSkyJkRud4JXUrhnwqvkPpVo/s564/8618ca2954c9cc97ffdf2bbc38d72323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF1wVzCg5y_kjWykL0mYk3Fh6IYSNB9Mr-i3qdTJxisFeaXmTRe6RVvd7lCcAtOXhqgRyQbKdFRjTKfO0o19FeTEY8xNTizr3E8hndQ35s19A103gb_RdSkyJkRud4JXUrhnwqvkPpVo/w400-h400/8618ca2954c9cc97ffdf2bbc38d72323.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdIpaiHuKi30d2KJCt0LRqWuXH6YeL1walw7TIVEm68Ms1oXUk-bgsru32d6C0tL8hoQVSep27qEHpKYmBUE7IsFYo-WxievBWt1lQuzB_AFM9mx1jqR5d0t-HoH4HYq4hrbmwYkhuio/s1024/394965-charles-h-spurgeon-quote-when-you-go-through-a-trial-the.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdIpaiHuKi30d2KJCt0LRqWuXH6YeL1walw7TIVEm68Ms1oXUk-bgsru32d6C0tL8hoQVSep27qEHpKYmBUE7IsFYo-WxievBWt1lQuzB_AFM9mx1jqR5d0t-HoH4HYq4hrbmwYkhuio/w400-h225/394965-charles-h-spurgeon-quote-when-you-go-through-a-trial-the.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-16133622326475195812021-01-06T00:13:00.006-08:002021-01-06T12:15:08.365-08:00Waste not, Want not<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9soQHB9utPRr-aIpuT_Y8npr7rdkBoC6pkmqIbXBM33WSXbZzzY-zEQiV9-iJFTlKInYyaARaSjTFGUJtR_e80L8I4fP8xBe9vJh6qPvkGRIM2fEZXTOSXF8Z02FO8-R_Blwakhzjro/s400/WAC254.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="400" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9soQHB9utPRr-aIpuT_Y8npr7rdkBoC6pkmqIbXBM33WSXbZzzY-zEQiV9-iJFTlKInYyaARaSjTFGUJtR_e80L8I4fP8xBe9vJh6qPvkGRIM2fEZXTOSXF8Z02FO8-R_Blwakhzjro/w400-h278/WAC254.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Hi everyone,<p></p><p>I'm sticking to my promise to write more and wanted to share my thoughts about waste not, want not. I heard this saying a lot while growing up here in New Zealand. I don't know if it's said in other countries as well? </p><p>HO M E I M P R O V E M E N T:</p><p>Anyway my husband and I have decided/purposed to not spend any unnecessary money this year eg. other than food costs, petrol, electricity bills etc and not to put anything extra on hire purchase. The upside of this is it causes me to have to be very creative and look through what I already have before becoming smitten with something new (shiny), that I might think I need (smile). So to stick with that plan and because I wanted to give my very small kitchen a wee makeover I knew I would need to do it on a shoestring. I found a small sideboard for sale on face book local marketplace and offered the lady $80 and she accepted it. My idea was to make a hutch dresser sort of set up. I already had a small bookcase which was once on a wall and we added a plate rail to that. So my husband and I got to work sanding and painting the sideboard and put it in our wee kitchen on the weekend. I used to use a large bookcase to store my plates, but it gathered dust so easily and looked quite dark, and that's why I wanted a change. We had excess paint in the shed, and chose a soft Dutch White cream colour. We also painted the book case that had been in the kitchen to put in the spare room. I had some pale mauve paint, and just mixed in some more white to the can. We sanded the bookcase, primed and painted many coats-of the pale mauve/pink. We are both very happy with it all. Here's the pics:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjtUOzA1S6qRcoD1RWF4J2qdczsJ0yihcry-QeNtQTcJ4e48oVTUVS0-iUqZ5BmjB_P0YQYulX4coWzjrA1eJWLvAbzvOg8xENxphGMNQIOdKhP8_Vut7t_S6VxIQyvQ08d-_4rYy7V4/s960/133651803_4003048156394978_8042383507622020202_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjtUOzA1S6qRcoD1RWF4J2qdczsJ0yihcry-QeNtQTcJ4e48oVTUVS0-iUqZ5BmjB_P0YQYulX4coWzjrA1eJWLvAbzvOg8xENxphGMNQIOdKhP8_Vut7t_S6VxIQyvQ08d-_4rYy7V4/w480-h640/133651803_4003048156394978_8042383507622020202_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAq-0xirSKNWSiKK1Qj0_31CMEjaWqtjkMYoayb4uoHxzDgYfPbOlugBX6cbU9TrHpYQZrgubNUU1LO1y_-bqBRZM2GHnxhjKtKX-Byy04NsWSVuta3yUcJ9kZXo6LqmTbNwBjY9LnyaE/s960/134939149_4003048359728291_6415663152263044206_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAq-0xirSKNWSiKK1Qj0_31CMEjaWqtjkMYoayb4uoHxzDgYfPbOlugBX6cbU9TrHpYQZrgubNUU1LO1y_-bqBRZM2GHnxhjKtKX-Byy04NsWSVuta3yUcJ9kZXo6LqmTbNwBjY9LnyaE/w480-h640/134939149_4003048359728291_6415663152263044206_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoO7XF6KJvKuEdFmwchRjrKR6Am0qJqK-OwJ_CFI2HRN4_THYQK-ngHLkLimCQGabg6GP2Tr0rK8PCcrkEuMEG8MO9NISJ248KaWQwsayfsWBEZsn3EmWwt7KAXfqJltwR_0g-wtikbU/s960/134941062_4003048416394952_7910348031312628469_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoO7XF6KJvKuEdFmwchRjrKR6Am0qJqK-OwJ_CFI2HRN4_THYQK-ngHLkLimCQGabg6GP2Tr0rK8PCcrkEuMEG8MO9NISJ248KaWQwsayfsWBEZsn3EmWwt7KAXfqJltwR_0g-wtikbU/w480-h640/134941062_4003048416394952_7910348031312628469_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>We oiled the top and it came up so lovely !!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAa70FXDJGPCnAesBdF7e-ODf4aQakA1jCG96pdiu5w5ohJPEU5k3KeAhBscsAqTMyziOB6Crn15HZO0Cu1JPvSU-PnMYkzD0Gp7Cn505qjxL35KwbaOybv746pyAYlbDZHjH6usN5YuE/s960/135479721_4003048549728272_7353623522440935409_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAa70FXDJGPCnAesBdF7e-ODf4aQakA1jCG96pdiu5w5ohJPEU5k3KeAhBscsAqTMyziOB6Crn15HZO0Cu1JPvSU-PnMYkzD0Gp7Cn505qjxL35KwbaOybv746pyAYlbDZHjH6usN5YuE/w480-h640/135479721_4003048549728272_7353623522440935409_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKWprb4Ozw2kSAkSjzQerxuQO6Zwz0qC82QwAsh9MKgqnsS8cHL6KUC2Afyjn7vN5LUvScxxXWA-9SjNiolI19U2Ekctl_KXLEW_C_Zu4X9wxkLmyRCtQvQx6WIyVjRv0UkBHRtzglKY/s960/136046839_4007786852587775_7819161552238103533_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKWprb4Ozw2kSAkSjzQerxuQO6Zwz0qC82QwAsh9MKgqnsS8cHL6KUC2Afyjn7vN5LUvScxxXWA-9SjNiolI19U2Ekctl_KXLEW_C_Zu4X9wxkLmyRCtQvQx6WIyVjRv0UkBHRtzglKY/w640-h640/136046839_4007786852587775_7819161552238103533_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-rC9Wl1N9T8ivRNLxKuRbxvbMlMf6clOx5ocs3bNvr8FSOBNGOxF-P8YrQo_Y1fAtUD8Gdiw6LnLDLxCivNnz5qui_hwdKM_W1wJDmpQTYTOhelpzzMiEWMfO2Gf-_dXXlXZc2C7IfY/s960/136119414_4007786919254435_3215423680812670641_n+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-rC9Wl1N9T8ivRNLxKuRbxvbMlMf6clOx5ocs3bNvr8FSOBNGOxF-P8YrQo_Y1fAtUD8Gdiw6LnLDLxCivNnz5qui_hwdKM_W1wJDmpQTYTOhelpzzMiEWMfO2Gf-_dXXlXZc2C7IfY/w480-h640/136119414_4007786919254435_3215423680812670641_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>The painted bookcase installed in the spare bedroom :) <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgac2JpNm-1DkqVB1XsFd9ddjD4mX5JajezNmjUu6RugDXCl04_tOeqG0ha4Dr60NvH85_6i-s8EFcL_I3gyy7xA5mb__2Plj9fLHFGiLmw77FKTNsEoyZxnjJJdyoVFiPKgXBhCyKuEDw/s960/136461306_4009068792459581_3927077151154943610_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgac2JpNm-1DkqVB1XsFd9ddjD4mX5JajezNmjUu6RugDXCl04_tOeqG0ha4Dr60NvH85_6i-s8EFcL_I3gyy7xA5mb__2Plj9fLHFGiLmw77FKTNsEoyZxnjJJdyoVFiPKgXBhCyKuEDw/w480-h640/136461306_4009068792459581_3927077151154943610_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqy8RHWpUuCYM1W0GlpYycA-NPXC7iSpORjWE7Yo9g8tB2eII6Abx-cOCgHe5wx9m1vCzTAtM7pMV7nPwaUA3Qk5xs4SKMbBTDu36jL06uaG2ibqjN38K_0Yx6NoQFr5OGpTE5MuS0Iyg/s960/136089017_4009081059125021_7582755411065107317_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqy8RHWpUuCYM1W0GlpYycA-NPXC7iSpORjWE7Yo9g8tB2eII6Abx-cOCgHe5wx9m1vCzTAtM7pMV7nPwaUA3Qk5xs4SKMbBTDu36jL06uaG2ibqjN38K_0Yx6NoQFr5OGpTE5MuS0Iyg/w480-h640/136089017_4009081059125021_7582755411065107317_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div>*I hope this might encourage someone else to realise they can improve a situation without needing to spend much money at all :) I still haven't finished in the kitchen. I want to paint the walls, and the window sills, maybe even the cupboard doors and the French door that comes into the kitchen area. It would be wonderful if we got it all done this summer :) as it's been a long time in coming and will really freshen it up. Apart from the wall colour we have enough leftover paint in the shed !!! yeh<div><br /></div><div>I N T H E G A R D E N:</div><div>This year we've put in a smaller vegetable garden than other years...and I'm not stressing about it. I know many people are planting huge victory gardens around the world (which is wonderful), but I decided to have a little rest from placing too much stress on myself for a change and I don't intend to do much canning either :). Next year it may be different. </div><div><br /></div><div>This summer we have: Tomatoes (x6 plants only), Courgettes, Spring Onions, Masses of self seeded Italian Parsley - my favourite), Green Beans, Lettuces, Herbs of course, and still to plant - Silver beet and some Cos lettuce.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqwTj4YSFK5fRNf73_wC5RrsUYFpkgQh-1FBhUAC_3YGW1yBrUHHrJxpSiFbRbSuQ4Y4xBBSAcubUuyLlLotaDRes7navjNHGMU5jEq8V2xywdAalb3F79Y1EVLyZ8Vv-HcHYPTfNk24/s960/135592129_4009051385794655_7052598061379434118_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqwTj4YSFK5fRNf73_wC5RrsUYFpkgQh-1FBhUAC_3YGW1yBrUHHrJxpSiFbRbSuQ4Y4xBBSAcubUuyLlLotaDRes7navjNHGMU5jEq8V2xywdAalb3F79Y1EVLyZ8Vv-HcHYPTfNk24/w480-h640/135592129_4009051385794655_7052598061379434118_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR28ICfGWGw5ZLPPh4pyAEBAe7NCAG8B2Oo0fWB60fp3gk_hzXoyYPFuWMAVzkz2bqi-JE86KwJZyDFk5ixmKd7SQCfrXJzRdugc2ZmOc_pY-noV7ECsLMqbMB5XRYpmzS-V6rgjjwzV0/s960/133970585_4009051585794635_1963224452335410935_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR28ICfGWGw5ZLPPh4pyAEBAe7NCAG8B2Oo0fWB60fp3gk_hzXoyYPFuWMAVzkz2bqi-JE86KwJZyDFk5ixmKd7SQCfrXJzRdugc2ZmOc_pY-noV7ECsLMqbMB5XRYpmzS-V6rgjjwzV0/w480-h640/133970585_4009051585794635_1963224452335410935_n.jpg" width="480" /></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/AVvXsEh9Ja5-k8lE33YgwIaFuSSrBSzNDfhA6c8PfncZtCV7m4puCymMMsLhJ0wXqGrI0DZSB_rkdAyngtINf_QfSvGWWIXbT31Gsc72VGm8GTf9kDrb2TL_KzkyQDV5Lq1YUY_WF0RjmqUqN7Y/s960/136409755_4009052115794582_1653806146982006690_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ja5-k8lE33YgwIaFuSSrBSzNDfhA6c8PfncZtCV7m4puCymMMsLhJ0wXqGrI0DZSB_rkdAyngtINf_QfSvGWWIXbT31Gsc72VGm8GTf9kDrb2TL_KzkyQDV5Lq1YUY_WF0RjmqUqN7Y/w480-h640/136409755_4009052115794582_1653806146982006690_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF9EGonD2BOS3tYs7aO7nAgjH58MFFMCVBpUaxSJEFmg2rT9FwLhSvgULvydW2xG7_B9qKT-Z6jYW_78Ie-PAQljfUJzf4vAJrqt7XHyMXYWC-dr4tHKRMqgdGuTgsnroCip2ZhOKchI/s960/136220973_4009056952460765_7013420235607215607_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsF9EGonD2BOS3tYs7aO7nAgjH58MFFMCVBpUaxSJEFmg2rT9FwLhSvgULvydW2xG7_B9qKT-Z6jYW_78Ie-PAQljfUJzf4vAJrqt7XHyMXYWC-dr4tHKRMqgdGuTgsnroCip2ZhOKchI/w480-h640/136220973_4009056952460765_7013420235607215607_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>..and of course our ever faithful fruit trees continue to bless us abundantly. Pretty Feijoa flowers below, Figs, Little green oranges starting to form, Figs, not many Apricots - the birds got them..grrr, but masses of plums as per usual. We did a lot of pruning last seasons end, so the trees have put their energy into new growth, which is good, because some of them had got too leggy and the fruit was getting too hard to reach, which meant our feathered friends were getting most of it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAPKpFUQL9ax0mBNK7ajv4Z5hf_rtsuAIxRdbqtsO8DlGFFmUCdLEPaVIcmEBiYF7rP-cv218WMc3uJhkjVOrNtDSd5AJw4Q5nf1XUQSja6LO65WB1mnepuSVasSqHD8DZCHISTta3WU/s960/134493488_4009050679128059_1657988134283524351_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAPKpFUQL9ax0mBNK7ajv4Z5hf_rtsuAIxRdbqtsO8DlGFFmUCdLEPaVIcmEBiYF7rP-cv218WMc3uJhkjVOrNtDSd5AJw4Q5nf1XUQSja6LO65WB1mnepuSVasSqHD8DZCHISTta3WU/w480-h640/134493488_4009050679128059_1657988134283524351_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezhPqnp862ovRCz3zEKYOOTN0lrn4NBs-hHenzrPzrSKCJ3N8xakVwy7_6v9XLEnzgYBO6usJIxzeJry7_8I4g5ilGSXhCXp0a6Ff_bAbwU9Qm4i_NEP35CcoelycnpdN63_brbuPqq4/s960/134873698_4009050749128052_2954750767246571437_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezhPqnp862ovRCz3zEKYOOTN0lrn4NBs-hHenzrPzrSKCJ3N8xakVwy7_6v9XLEnzgYBO6usJIxzeJry7_8I4g5ilGSXhCXp0a6Ff_bAbwU9Qm4i_NEP35CcoelycnpdN63_brbuPqq4/w480-h640/134873698_4009050749128052_2954750767246571437_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghy1tW2HkVBW0vuZp6t-5Ig4ZH9EfMs6KClf6hehVeBWRkJC3jVxwMBDbROLOW8yrWjH2P3S5SgndKghHek1Qh0z7A_kuGad7bEmpv08ghLgjPEGrtECs5IdKxTzyJ36jhLq0S-0TN1_U/s960/134947556_4009050925794701_6947632515917666416_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghy1tW2HkVBW0vuZp6t-5Ig4ZH9EfMs6KClf6hehVeBWRkJC3jVxwMBDbROLOW8yrWjH2P3S5SgndKghHek1Qh0z7A_kuGad7bEmpv08ghLgjPEGrtECs5IdKxTzyJ36jhLq0S-0TN1_U/w480-h640/134947556_4009050925794701_6947632515917666416_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJX32SNAmfw6Qy0j5fHrP_FI7514HkVGVuW49sTD1Idc0ezf0pK3DWflpb_2saHXX6n4rhjbgc4RCuwAmtX6_b17Ow3UL-UNfxHfaTYBjAqeO64i8Lr-mODCxIqndaYEaK2tU_ejliD8/s960/135188035_4009051189128008_8198664683211418507_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJX32SNAmfw6Qy0j5fHrP_FI7514HkVGVuW49sTD1Idc0ezf0pK3DWflpb_2saHXX6n4rhjbgc4RCuwAmtX6_b17Ow3UL-UNfxHfaTYBjAqeO64i8Lr-mODCxIqndaYEaK2tU_ejliD8/w480-h640/135188035_4009051189128008_8198664683211418507_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MoBuZMMPQaAL5QfrqbuTguLdxhSicmVsnq-5lC6tWXUU9SH75Ku2U5xdnKfv1_F2WPrD8FBH95JBNXy0u-7aZsTl2ih4xrrKmTNmXvtsi10EGyb5xo8CAvg4fhQtnTG_MuYA86gkMvE/s960/136145442_4009050892461371_2604751081800380664_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MoBuZMMPQaAL5QfrqbuTguLdxhSicmVsnq-5lC6tWXUU9SH75Ku2U5xdnKfv1_F2WPrD8FBH95JBNXy0u-7aZsTl2ih4xrrKmTNmXvtsi10EGyb5xo8CAvg4fhQtnTG_MuYA86gkMvE/w480-h640/136145442_4009050892461371_2604751081800380664_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>Garden flowers to bless our table :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsVx9-MCS3AX48JyAMHmzQqSKuJs8_Hgm0lP0Z2HsKM5mMZhdihS1gg7XgYl8e72dE8PbML4PHsU1Tz5GXsJt3Ed0lURQe1y0cUB9LiEyVe6zhFGGWCIjDSBVWbajHhD9B83X4XjJ2DU/s960/136110447_4009059962460464_6628623110177108724_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsVx9-MCS3AX48JyAMHmzQqSKuJs8_Hgm0lP0Z2HsKM5mMZhdihS1gg7XgYl8e72dE8PbML4PHsU1Tz5GXsJt3Ed0lURQe1y0cUB9LiEyVe6zhFGGWCIjDSBVWbajHhD9B83X4XjJ2DU/w480-h640/136110447_4009059962460464_6628623110177108724_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div> I N T H E K I T C H E N :</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwG-cVhI9p5TliCpr3FYOlgjAHPvbfFEEsG0980_Ry74G7cejdNnmvDMJW0Julbqd0m2OYyVzerJIAJXX3DaHxi3D5l_JZsNULClCqqDXyNVOc5_If4mDmueF3EPKmIzfDTGMU9ZcCvY/s960/135256002_4009052355794558_812096468394307642_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwG-cVhI9p5TliCpr3FYOlgjAHPvbfFEEsG0980_Ry74G7cejdNnmvDMJW0Julbqd0m2OYyVzerJIAJXX3DaHxi3D5l_JZsNULClCqqDXyNVOc5_If4mDmueF3EPKmIzfDTGMU9ZcCvY/w480-h640/135256002_4009052355794558_812096468394307642_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>'Sugar Free Stewed Rhubarb'</b></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Cups chopped Rhubarb</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 - 1/2 Cup sugar free sweetener (I mixed 1/2 Cup Erythritol with 1/2 teaspoon Stevia)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 extra 'doonk' of stevia</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 teaspoon Vanilla Essence</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 - 3/4 Cup water.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Method:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Place everything in a small saucepan with the lid on. Bring to the boil and then turn</div><div style="text-align: center;">the heat down to a simmer and cook until the fruit is almost soft. Then remove the lid</div><div style="text-align: center;">and reduce the liquid a little until it thickens a little bit.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Leave it all to cool and then put in a covered container and store in the fridge.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*I enjoyed a few spoonful's of this with some unsweetened Greek Yoghurt, I also added a teaspoon of LSA (ground equal amounts of Linseeds, Sunflower seeds and Almonds), and a wee drizzle of sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">free blueberry syrup. Oh my was it good :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~</div><p class="MsoNormal">W H A T I'M R E A D I NG:<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>I've been reading only Christmas books through December and
into early January. I'll re-read these books probably every Christmas :) I got
this book for only $5 second hand!!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>'An Amish Christmas - by Cynthia Keller ( I really enjoyed
this simple story).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUzHUGCW4eQt4nrKwkFl9GRY9tAvtIoFMdkMp0ewPPetcqHLzW2hoYzm7-UXIr57Ajt6OwJXz7rUL3JFwbVVnbghvhEPBkxUKmjK9BUb7V79oovJJC-GgXhEVj_vYggdhyphenhyphenLJLNOIIKd4/s450/7896352.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="311" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUzHUGCW4eQt4nrKwkFl9GRY9tAvtIoFMdkMp0ewPPetcqHLzW2hoYzm7-UXIr57Ajt6OwJXz7rUL3JFwbVVnbghvhEPBkxUKmjK9BUb7V79oovJJC-GgXhEVj_vYggdhyphenhyphenLJLNOIIKd4/w442-h640/7896352.jpg" width="442" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>As it was such a busy month, I just wanted to read something
light. Here's the synopsis:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Meg Hobart has everything: a happy marriage to a handsome,
successful husband, a beautiful home in Charlotte, North Carolina, and three
wonderful children. But it all comes crashing down around her the day she
learns that her husband, James, has been living a lie—and has brought the
family to financial ruin. Penniless and homeless, the Hobarts pack up what
little they still possess and leave behind their golden life for good. But it’s
not the material things Meg finds herself mourning. Instead, she misses the
certainty that she should remain married to James, who has betrayed her trust
so thoughtlessly. Worse, she is suddenly very aware of just how spoiled her
children have become. Meg wonders what her family has really sacrificed in
their pursuit of the American dream.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>A frightening twist of fate forces the Hobarts to take
refuge with a kind Amish family in Pennsylvania, where they find themselves in
a home with no computers, no cell phones, nothing the children consider
fashionable or fun. Her uncooperative brood confined to the Amish world of hard
work and tradition, their futures entirely uncertain, Meg fears she can never
make her family whole again. Celebrating life’s simplest but most essential values,
packed with laughter and tears, this is a story of forgiveness and the power of
love.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> ~ ~ ~</o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">...and prior to this book I read: Christmas at Harmony
Hill by Ann H. Gabhart (I love Shaker novels) ! I have the whole
collection of her Shaker books. Ann is a very good descriptive writer. If you
like reading historical novels and books about unusual religious people, like
the Shakers then you'll enjoy the Shaker novels.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp-iKX8txTsxT03D1yW1o1C9Xf423SHPFVYu8IpL0Xs-D1JgzB-QqmpUnisJaEeovoo2aw_dy_CP4vWCXAThpXQddlBEc7dhnryI-XQWzUx1m0OgG5cZB16SO-ju5DB3vL1CpSFzuueE/s400/17384587.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp-iKX8txTsxT03D1yW1o1C9Xf423SHPFVYu8IpL0Xs-D1JgzB-QqmpUnisJaEeovoo2aw_dy_CP4vWCXAThpXQddlBEc7dhnryI-XQWzUx1m0OgG5cZB16SO-ju5DB3vL1CpSFzuueE/w259-h400/17384587.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal">O N L I N E:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>*I also follow various people on YouTube and find a real
kinship/fellowship with people of a like mind there. One of my favourite ones
is 'The Oldsteaders Homestead: Living Life Simply'. They are a family of
Mum/Dad and 2 grown sons and two young sons. They built their home in the woods
themselves. They work very hard and Leah considers herself a modern day peasant
by choice :) They post a lot of devotional videos which I enhoy listening too
as well. I was watching one of her videos last night and she shared that before
they were homesteading, when they had a VCR player she loved to watch 'The
Waltons' and 'Little House on the Prairie" and she felt like when she
watched those shows she was having fellowship, because she didn't find people
in her world who thought the way she did about living a simple old fashioned
life. By old fashioned I mean, they have no electricity, she gets her water
from a well and creek, they garden, have chickens, cook on a wood stove, wash
laundry by hand etc. Pretty hard work !!!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Disclaimer: When I share a link to anything online, or show books I read, don't assume I agree 100% with what that person/book/channel etc may support or believe. It's always just aspects that I appreciate from these things/people/books. As I grow older I realise I don't easily fit into any particular slot when it comes to my faith (eg. denominationalism). I am simply a follower of the Way as it's written in the bible. I try to stay faithful to God and Him alone by adhering to the scriptures and using my own common sense.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Regarding kinship
with earlier times in history I know just how she feels. I often feel like I
was born in the wrong time. When I was younger I tried to do things the modern
way, but the older I get I am veering towards things I love which don't
necessarily fit into the modern world. To me it's wonderful <span face=""Calibri Light", sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">and fulfilling.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">(Just wanted to share this
:)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Calibri Light"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">~ and
finally...</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Calibri Light"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">A
LITTLE SPIRITUAL NOTE: In closing I just wanted to add that living a
simple life at home brings me tremendous peace and joy. I'm not interested at
all in the direction this modern 'world' is going in because I don't agree with
most of it. I find wisdom and truth in the bible and it's a solid foundation to
build ones whole life upon. I knew it the day I gave my heart to the Lord (over
30 years ago now) and it still remains true and sure to this day. Whenever I've
had upheavals in life it's because I veered off the path, the straight
path and way of the Lord and not because of anything lacking in my
Christian faith. If your not a believer I would encourage you to 'try
Jesus' - I can promise you, you will never look back and He will never leave
you or let you down.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Calibri Light"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">Blessings
to anyone who stops by. I hope something I have shared is a blessing to you ~
Linda :)</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUkTb5RUY05Zgk0QtLT4oc6gL159tih_-abyatczzGNazeFES_3XhNWNUsGey1FyM-mvOO80tW2s9uSKOpSUTLPLoRHBjvReodgool3Yf6s0PT0NgqablI3fl28Ek8bohZXWFr5xSLGc/s699/Robert+Reid+-+Tending+the+Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="627" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUkTb5RUY05Zgk0QtLT4oc6gL159tih_-abyatczzGNazeFES_3XhNWNUsGey1FyM-mvOO80tW2s9uSKOpSUTLPLoRHBjvReodgool3Yf6s0PT0NgqablI3fl28Ek8bohZXWFr5xSLGc/w359-h400/Robert+Reid+-+Tending+the+Garden.jpg" width="359" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><i><div style="text-align: center;"><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">Art by Robert Reid - 'Tending the Flowers' (I
think)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">~</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 146</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">(NIV Bible)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Praise the Lord</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Praise the Lord O my soul,</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Do not put your trust in princes,</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">in mortal men who cannot save.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">When the spirit departs they<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">return to the ground;<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">on that very day their plans come to nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">whose hope is in the Lord his God,<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">the Maker of heaven and earth,<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">the sea, and everything in them,<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">the Lord who remains faithful forever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt;">He upholds the cause of the oppressed</span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">and gives food to the hungry.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">The Lord sets prisoners free,<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">The Lord gives sight to the blind,</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down,</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">the Lord loves the righteous.</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">The Lord watches over the alien</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">and sustains the fatherless and the widow,</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">but he frustrates the way of the wicked.</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">The Lord reigns forever,</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">Your God, O Zion for all generations.</span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">Praise the Lord. </span></i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-NZ;">~</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><br /></div></i></span></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-73499168017875900292021-01-01T00:03:00.002-08:002021-01-01T00:03:17.220-08:00The Joyful Season<p> Hello dear friends and quiet followers :) HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR !!! I know I've been absent quite some time, so I thought it's about time I got on here and wrote a little bit. I'll just share in words and pictures some of my goings on of late.</p><p>D E C E M B E R - always one of my favourite months of the year. I'm always like a big kid when it comes to Christmas. I love to decorate our home, make special food, have twinkly lights strewn here and there, put Christmas lilies in a vase to fragrance our home and special scents in the essential oil burner. This all creates that special atmosphere in our home....and of course the nativity scene will take centre stage, because after all that's what Christmas is all about. </p><p>Nowadays each Christmas is different. Some years all the family will gather here...well we did for a long time :), but now all our children are either married or almost there and have 'new' families as well to consider. So I've learnt not to expect that everyone will come home for Christmas these days...and I'm okay with it now :) even though it has taken some getting used to. Other people's families are just as special and we just need to share everyone around.</p><p>The other day some of my grandchildren came over and we baked cookies. I saw an idea pop up from a ladies blog for chocolate chip cookies, dipped half in white chocolate and then sprinkled with crushed candy canes and they looked so good, that I gathered all the ingredients together and we had a fun time making them. My daughter was at the hairdressers, so I managed to keep them all amused between a sink full of soapy water for the littlest, to an ipad to watch slime videos on for older girls :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxkIZL5CcW_EBpFp9_e_0gBz5F7jivEXlij6Z7eNBcnxJsvTU6Ksa1Tz3hOLCxP6ePh-dasqsrW97ny4yokRmJiXpS4THPC4GolpeoQkEAGpczhwXBH8lb20VvGMa3olV1mjF8zdotfU/s2048/IMG_20201201_114949.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxkIZL5CcW_EBpFp9_e_0gBz5F7jivEXlij6Z7eNBcnxJsvTU6Ksa1Tz3hOLCxP6ePh-dasqsrW97ny4yokRmJiXpS4THPC4GolpeoQkEAGpczhwXBH8lb20VvGMa3olV1mjF8zdotfU/w640-h480/IMG_20201201_114949.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>My two year old grandaughter Laura Joy, having fun mucking in Nanny's bubbly dish water :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfn1i7jCzVmT3JY_2CRZRMgOI1GDO_ZKh-DSfEB8oULqfcKvfMVMaHGqXPTyCxx01LberMsQKfrRnYHgC-yfy1A3lp8QLDysFeC0g96lI4bF1gjKF_JpkRpke1jncBdIiNDzC0sfaceKg/s2048/IMG_20201201_142014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfn1i7jCzVmT3JY_2CRZRMgOI1GDO_ZKh-DSfEB8oULqfcKvfMVMaHGqXPTyCxx01LberMsQKfrRnYHgC-yfy1A3lp8QLDysFeC0g96lI4bF1gjKF_JpkRpke1jncBdIiNDzC0sfaceKg/w640-h480/IMG_20201201_142014.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzPFKj9JzxU0OhF5C1piQO5hRvTA0DppvehrerQKgmxrjIkAFqW7QqA7jsDkK3trBvwQDcUxBYJ0OChU7Wl5YNW6SsfVZU0bS2a8TO-XdXq6ytqw412qbCJzKQffpkx44uXbu_VZRtLo/s2048/IMG_20201010_151713+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzPFKj9JzxU0OhF5C1piQO5hRvTA0DppvehrerQKgmxrjIkAFqW7QqA7jsDkK3trBvwQDcUxBYJ0OChU7Wl5YNW6SsfVZU0bS2a8TO-XdXq6ytqw412qbCJzKQffpkx44uXbu_VZRtLo/w480-h640/IMG_20201010_151713+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My middle son Louis proposed to Ren :) - how exciting !!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EU2FQyfZraFcgBROhQTyYzGElYDvsxA92v82pBxm0NOiDeA7sQoXecQEqBTpAv7r5cDrRcM76N6RhVFgkF6bnOw3u-3S_qG6YrsWARRjDPH782QNV6y4e7myKBIcuumLBSTQzo6oTRA/s2048/IMG_20201010_151736+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EU2FQyfZraFcgBROhQTyYzGElYDvsxA92v82pBxm0NOiDeA7sQoXecQEqBTpAv7r5cDrRcM76N6RhVFgkF6bnOw3u-3S_qG6YrsWARRjDPH782QNV6y4e7myKBIcuumLBSTQzo6oTRA/w480-h640/IMG_20201010_151736+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our youngest little grand daughter came to visit - little 'Freya' - so cute</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">I forgot to take many more pics as the season just rolled on and there were presents to wrap, a Christmas cake to be baked, a house to decorate and food to be prepared. What fun it all was. </span></div><div><br /></div><div>However....<br /><div><br /></div><div>Sadly in the midst of all this my oldest sister passed away from an ongoing illness. That was very sad. I hadn't actually seen her in over 30 years as she lived in Australia. We weren't really close anymore and didn't keep in touch. There were many years when we didn't really even know where she was living...but even so, we watched her funeral via a skype sort of set up and the tears still rolled. My other sister had childhood photos she shared on the day of the funeral and all the old memories cam flooding back. It was especially hard for my mum to have to sit through her own child's funeral. Life is hard at times, and that makes me ever more grateful for my faith. The Lord is such a comfort. It's a blessing to be a believer.</div><div><br /></div><div>I sit and write this on New Years day, which has been lovely. I just ate my way through the last slice of Pavlova...ahhh...thats enough pudding for quite some time. In my next post I'll do a wee update on what we're up to around home...always some sort of sanding/painting, furniture moving, weeding activity going on...ahhh LIFE, isn't it grand. The older I get the more I realise what a privilege that is, to have another day, another year. Each day is to be treasured. </div><div>I'm thankful for my blog, for all of you I've met, for your quiet friendship and the sharing that goes on. It's a blessing. I'll try to post more this year. </div><div><br /></div><div>Love to you all ~ Linda (New Zealand)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzCRWu_DapuGIAnuAgfW-8BtiVb7psomHdID6WYNucMGGOPiDTyi0Govg12hGdelctO768laSL_HtGKZg2hTRY_2cTSy78hHIHFX0WpmOKEO0pFOW_KS4SuDJnXFYkSotQyrQlxyU2sE/s500/51lIz7vQUzL._AC_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="363" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzCRWu_DapuGIAnuAgfW-8BtiVb7psomHdID6WYNucMGGOPiDTyi0Govg12hGdelctO768laSL_HtGKZg2hTRY_2cTSy78hHIHFX0WpmOKEO0pFOW_KS4SuDJnXFYkSotQyrQlxyU2sE/w464-h640/51lIz7vQUzL._AC_.jpg" width="464" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-26842464882754761692020-08-11T14:18:00.004-07:002020-08-11T17:49:22.328-07:00Don't lose your head<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><br />
<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX39HdydySlWSc2fnz-idm8DTGgmHFBbClJaIWx280QU_K4Bd-VL58FwSHqu_ZpEf9jHfdREOO887IO7jQVHTg8nMKqQxnWHcNjPhO20NWd_fX46cr6zl8bhmR3qmru_k_FukbiOqH1aU/s600/e30f0b219e5f5c3f3a17fadb92000de4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX39HdydySlWSc2fnz-idm8DTGgmHFBbClJaIWx280QU_K4Bd-VL58FwSHqu_ZpEf9jHfdREOO887IO7jQVHTg8nMKqQxnWHcNjPhO20NWd_fX46cr6zl8bhmR3qmru_k_FukbiOqH1aU/s0/e30f0b219e5f5c3f3a17fadb92000de4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello dear readers (friends),</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope your all well and trying to maintain your calm in these unusual times we are living in. It's been a while since I shared anything much at all, other than pictures of my cleaning out the pantry and I had something on my heart so decided to just go ahead and share it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Does anyone else remember the children's story book: Chicken Lickin?</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/AVvXsEiNHijbr1HBVtYvyuktCAMjNE5vv841f7SVm-LUsOlRrYpyJBR7NkAtmzCg-q4z6Oc0NAXUz3Ic7KynBO_tO5_71mr6Byj8d89HMp-FMgZyoihG4gNpcXYqRg8RUN6C0kCSycZoC9Mwvdo/s499/51Fg3KLdOeL._SX326_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHijbr1HBVtYvyuktCAMjNE5vv841f7SVm-LUsOlRrYpyJBR7NkAtmzCg-q4z6Oc0NAXUz3Ic7KynBO_tO5_71mr6Byj8d89HMp-FMgZyoihG4gNpcXYqRg8RUN6C0kCSycZoC9Mwvdo/s0/51Fg3KLdOeL._SX326_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" /></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/AVvXsEgfdjqZ6lQMZ4wDfDicc0FVZsOG8q8SVK5_WOwgp7DfLXgasFaTsFBgeIfz_Wemezz8mmNVuOYy6s6rR0wxzJoYkX6yLwt5IoQ0Q31An-XGQl3acmlnWr3RDR9v8OHnhgfp_5fPdemSrUw/s454/bdfc37fd3c826313eb283789a2d715c4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdjqZ6lQMZ4wDfDicc0FVZsOG8q8SVK5_WOwgp7DfLXgasFaTsFBgeIfz_Wemezz8mmNVuOYy6s6rR0wxzJoYkX6yLwt5IoQ0Q31An-XGQl3acmlnWr3RDR9v8OHnhgfp_5fPdemSrUw/s0/bdfc37fd3c826313eb283789a2d715c4.jpg" /></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/AVvXsEiHvYImU9FNJYPSf0PgbV4xBximEaXIJx-iZ4PGJ8SdmG2jFLU-QmjfdOoCvtMwbbAkfQuEU8aHzcafO75TFGg92yHOr2tjVSNxQRx0c_ToI68KhUUDi32EfR5heAAQc-2tc_Ido0cLUJs/s480/hqdefault.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHvYImU9FNJYPSf0PgbV4xBximEaXIJx-iZ4PGJ8SdmG2jFLU-QmjfdOoCvtMwbbAkfQuEU8aHzcafO75TFGg92yHOr2tjVSNxQRx0c_ToI68KhUUDi32EfR5heAAQc-2tc_Ido0cLUJs/s0/hqdefault.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Chicken Lickin thinks the sky is falling in because an acorn drops on his head. He plans to tell the King this news and on his way meets various friends/characters who all believe him and follow him without question to tell the king. Eventually they also tell Foxy Loxy (crafty and clever) and he leads them to his den where his wife and children are waiting and they eat them for their dinner. Moral of the story: Question everything, don't believe everything you hear, think for yourself and use your head - be wise.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Saying or expression: <b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">lose</b><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">(one's)</span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">head</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">To</span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">lose</b><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">one's composure and act emotionally or irrationally. You need to calm down before you talk speak. You</span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">don't</b><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">want to</span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">lose your head</b><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">before finding out someone else's side of the story. </span>freedictionary.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is nothing new under the sun. God sent His prophets to encourage the people with the same sound advice when they faced difficult situations in their history.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Isaiah 8: 11 - 13</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is what the Lord says to me: With His strong hand upon me, warning me not to follow the way of His people:12 - Do not call conspiracy everything this people call conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. 13 -The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, He is the one you are to fear, He is the one you are to dread.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Jeremiah 10: 2 This is what the Lord says: Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by the signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified by them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Matthew Henry's commentary advises: Do not be afraid of evil tidings on earth but let your hearts be fixed. Fear not that which they fear or be afraid as they are. Jeremiah advises the people to a greater religious fear "But sanctify the Lord of Hosts himself". </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Note: The The believing fear of God is a preservative against the disquieting fear of man. We must look upon God who has all power in His hand and all creatures at his beck. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Several years back I a had a very unusual and vivid dream concerning the future, where it was all grey and gloomy. People were running around terrified, in and out of buildings. I didn't understand in the dream what was happening and remember feeling very calm. I looked up and before my eyes thousands of sticks were swirling in the air and assembling themselves into an ark. The next moment I was in that ark. I was standing in line with others to get food. When I got to the front of the line, someone was handing out what looked like wafers. They were to be our food (like manna). The taste was anything you wanted it to be. The impression the Lord laid on my heart after I woke, was that God knows His own and we are not to live/walk in FEAR. He is sovereign, in control and His plan is unfolding. All believers need to be is be alert, be faithful, have oil in our lamps, continue in prayer, bible reading, fellowship, encouraging one another in this way. Loving the Lord and serving Him with all our hearts, soul mind and strength and loving our neighbour as yourself.</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/AVvXsEgMHxGpQIsT3HmznT_-WNT7Sd9wEvLPKyUQWGgqKgYmHIeqAzdmsyk9AXVrW_x2eaCtu7pV0LapbMSUSU_kxLGF_5bH1ED3mi8LYa5fpZYx4WQgJt-apAfXVd920Z4dCmkdRL8Rf1vgYqU/s658/28939a9831f328e9719268936767b94a.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHxGpQIsT3HmznT_-WNT7Sd9wEvLPKyUQWGgqKgYmHIeqAzdmsyk9AXVrW_x2eaCtu7pV0LapbMSUSU_kxLGF_5bH1ED3mi8LYa5fpZYx4WQgJt-apAfXVd920Z4dCmkdRL8Rf1vgYqU/s640/28939a9831f328e9719268936767b94a.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Their are all kinds of controversies, doomsday theories, scare mongering going on. There may be a little truth in some of it? But it's not something I'm going to base my life upon. Laundry still needs to be done, families need to be nurtured and fed...Elderly parents need to be looked in on...gardens get weedy, bills need to be paid....people need to go to work...babies are being born....a new season will roll around, life goes on and must. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some Tips to NOT LOSE your HEAD:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Walk in wisdom. Be wise as you go about daily life. Don't believe everything you hear or read. Do some research if need be. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Be prepared (my girl scout motto) It's always sensible to be prepared in case of an emergency of any kind - be that illness, loss of job etc. I always keep at least 6 weeks extra food in the house. It's wise to have at least 3 months extra stored away (in my opinion - more if you can afford it ). We eat very little meat these days, so it's quite inexpensive to do this. I always have a good stock of dry good: rice, flour, dried beans, dried soup mix, canned fish, canned beans, frozen vegetables, spices, herbs etc on hand. I store extra rice in the freezer if I don't have an airtight container available. We grow a lot of fruit and I preserve it in the summer, freeze some and make jam. I make pickles/relishes for our sandwiches. </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/AVvXsEgu1g02jo3yz7hjKRV9Hs91arUSlYh3J1qYqPWp5rnEVS4yArGxBGINKcbTOsO7yg3GTEBprlePAOR_76vDfZ_QHmj72WCUQkqpCk76fMlHq1suyKklQeFRC_yIi5dhR079C7fFgZTFOXs/s1200/JO4Uc0nWQdr_LaMDzjab02hCNyVl83-3IdTwvg_P39o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1g02jo3yz7hjKRV9Hs91arUSlYh3J1qYqPWp5rnEVS4yArGxBGINKcbTOsO7yg3GTEBprlePAOR_76vDfZ_QHmj72WCUQkqpCk76fMlHq1suyKklQeFRC_yIi5dhR079C7fFgZTFOXs/s640/JO4Uc0nWQdr_LaMDzjab02hCNyVl83-3IdTwvg_P39o.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;">3. Continue doing the things you always do: Worship the Lord, spend time (everyday) in prayer and in your bible. This maintains my sanity :), my inner peace. Encourage others in the faith to do likewise. Share this hope with those who are unbelievers. A lot of people have no hope or security right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Don't spend money needlessly. Have some savings in the bank. Make conscious purchases, things that will go the distance, good quality over quantity. Start small eg. I now purchase steel clothespins/pegs instead of plastic, which become brittle and break in our hot summers. Slowly replace cheap items with quality/study materials for garden/home/clothing etc..as you have the money for this.</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/AVvXsEjJSoT4dNzfucPYShxqrxPceWuBh0vUrJQhpX-3tOe2QF5TlsSYeB9ASfBqsv4zg7OkxvVjosaFGLEBuRjpq_7jyF_h9oH676Z-EaBGAFDF4_dUhZjOVx-mdSlL6nHIeXIEyHojwRvyoe0/s619/9e883d7ac0e44a589d0b340e6a482308.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJSoT4dNzfucPYShxqrxPceWuBh0vUrJQhpX-3tOe2QF5TlsSYeB9ASfBqsv4zg7OkxvVjosaFGLEBuRjpq_7jyF_h9oH676Z-EaBGAFDF4_dUhZjOVx-mdSlL6nHIeXIEyHojwRvyoe0/s0/9e883d7ac0e44a589d0b340e6a482308.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Downsize or move to reduce debt/living costs if possible and if necessary. Pay off excess debt as soon as possible. Buy only what you need. Budget for other things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Plant a garden. If you don't know how, then get a book out of the library. There are endless resources available for free, or watch videos on youtube.</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/AVvXsEjdgv4ynYY43TykQpHzhGH4B05VD90LgLYaLqRRRQe2XyU23ryeZ2n1hQD7RaVSqpPBIQqDBB9gYDMFeFeGCQt115iPc_43WekTIS70gM7cSFWFasjH8JkuEShCPuOQRdffB5173UiIBKo/s473/1173485c157483f4a2f74fab9bb51653--say-to-homemaking.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="473" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgv4ynYY43TykQpHzhGH4B05VD90LgLYaLqRRRQe2XyU23ryeZ2n1hQD7RaVSqpPBIQqDBB9gYDMFeFeGCQt115iPc_43WekTIS70gM7cSFWFasjH8JkuEShCPuOQRdffB5173UiIBKo/s0/1173485c157483f4a2f74fab9bb51653--say-to-homemaking.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. Live simply. You don't need to constantly update your wardrobe (unless you have a lot of money and things like this don't concern you). I only get rid of clothes if they don't fit or I know I won't wear it. Then it's donated somehow. Or I wear it out :) - yes I do. !! A simple wardrobe reduces stress. We cook our own meals, we rarely go out to a movie and hardly ever eat out. We don't have a television, just the internet, so we choose what comes into our home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8. Health: Keep yourself and your family safe. If Covid is in your area, then wear a mask if that's what's called for. It's probably sensible in flu season anyway !! If your sick, stay home. Keep needed simple medicines on hand: Disprin, Anti-inflammatories, Bandages, ointments, thermometer etc. Get a water purifier (if you don't have one - we have a Berkey). Maintain good hygiene at all times. Be sensible. Take caution where necessary. DON'T LIVE IN FEAR THOUGH.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">9. And finally - be a leader. Lead by example. Let your inner peace be evident. Go about your daily tasks with confidence in tomorrow. If today is all we have, then go out with Joy. Share with others, Say a kind, caring word. Love those around you. Maintain a peaceful, calm, uncluttered, clean, loved home. Love and encourage your husbands !! You'll be surprised how even these simple things can be a witness and a light to others during uncertain times...and well at anytime really :)</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/AVvXsEh3CX9Cx4YOZ6J7KkCTyYXYt6x_YO37ss0V3d1j-2iaLz_KvMr0YE5zscJO1B05n5COKyJCTo6PeHtbOkGD08t0O5AvbRRPnKpulNw8Q5wzxKtOqLGNGpkbBXE_kevVPjuOtqibUZyDBKw/s661/chicken-woman-fox-photos-canvas-print.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="661" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CX9Cx4YOZ6J7KkCTyYXYt6x_YO37ss0V3d1j-2iaLz_KvMr0YE5zscJO1B05n5COKyJCTo6PeHtbOkGD08t0O5AvbRRPnKpulNw8Q5wzxKtOqLGNGpkbBXE_kevVPjuOtqibUZyDBKw/s640/chicken-woman-fox-photos-canvas-print.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I truly hope this writing will be an encouragement to someone. I know in other countries right now Covid seems like it's out of control, but still heed these words, stay close to the Lord, carry on doing what you need to do. If there's rioting over other matters in your area, keep shining the light of the Lord's love which dwells within your heart, don't give in to fear, or enmity. Don't stoop to another's level, seek the high ground and dwell there. Much love to you all. Stay hopeful. There's a peace in knowing you've done everything in your power to care for your family/home and know God will amply provide the rest. Be comforted in that assurance. His Love covers you. God's got this :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blessings ~ Linda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wNxkRqz2mFR0va-opax6OoZZqOWS9ButLy6lA-IYcQB4794rrxIp0yxBLxSEwC6bqSXDz51oOsfKea9C2pYOko7qESu4uHwu8OcNwSBLD-CAbZZif7X6k2LLMdVoh4VTKJ3Mrw0-rkQ/s640/3ecd2c3def3fe304c53afdf6046c145b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wNxkRqz2mFR0va-opax6OoZZqOWS9ButLy6lA-IYcQB4794rrxIp0yxBLxSEwC6bqSXDz51oOsfKea9C2pYOko7qESu4uHwu8OcNwSBLD-CAbZZif7X6k2LLMdVoh4VTKJ3Mrw0-rkQ/s0/3ecd2c3def3fe304c53afdf6046c145b.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="stanza" style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: roboto, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-top: 8px; text-align: justify;"><p class="line2" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px 25px 0px 50px; text-align: left;"><br /></p></div></div>
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-64167564981939386892020-05-31T01:28:00.001-07:002020-06-09T02:34:38.686-07:00Stepping Back & Stepping Out<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMALPmhV4V8qu3ZW5BCDuaul-TPzMQnFdb6yDh5DLZfu8PCECAuH7EiXWb_6oHh0DSAThSi4ZO9o-mrUFHPlpM9obPb6O5FsyALmpzxsqAuhgpiQxQQaPu0_XD95CrJsn9q3gWyoBDBqY/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMALPmhV4V8qu3ZW5BCDuaul-TPzMQnFdb6yDh5DLZfu8PCECAuH7EiXWb_6oHh0DSAThSi4ZO9o-mrUFHPlpM9obPb6O5FsyALmpzxsqAuhgpiQxQQaPu0_XD95CrJsn9q3gWyoBDBqY/w320-h400/Myles+Birket+Foster+1899.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi everyone,</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Sorry it's been so long since I've written. My last post was at the start of the awful Virus outbreak and I think as we as a country went into lock down, I sort of withdrew from a lot of social media and the internet. It wasn't really intentional, it just happened, so I just wanted to let you know what has been happening here in our life. I continued on with cleaning and clearing and have now worked my way through every cupboard and pantry, as we have several, and most of the bookcases. Oh how cathartic it is..much less clutter. We also purchased two inexpensive white pantries to store a lot of the packaging that I use for my small soap business...just things like that :) It takes a lot of sorting through, and I find I have to stay focused on the task to just complete it properly and not try to do a whole lot of other things at the same time. </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A question: How did you feel about the Lock Down? Are you still in Lock Down? in your country?</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We are out of lock down now and nearly everything is open again. I personally loved the lock down, as did a lot of people I have spoken too. Our world is just so busy these days. I found it a joy to look out the window and see neighbours at home, out in their gardens or people as families going for walks together. When the lock down was over I was saddened that for so many people the thing they missed most was shopping ?? </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We still haven't even left our small town. It reminded me how fulfilling it is to take time to make special things for our home, to go through my own fabric stash and not just order something new online or rush into town to buy something. </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It was so quiet on our streets...I felt so peaceful...like nothing was expected of me and I didn't need to be anywhere. Apart from missing friends and family, I was able to be still...to think...and to start and complete projects I didn't think I would ever get around too.</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Here's pictures of some of those things:</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>PRESERVING THE HARVEST:</b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We have four apple trees and three of those produce quite abundantly, so May sees me bottling apples, making apple butter and we eat a lot of them too.</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4XVEwvDp8aOU7DW0h7GVw2n123kZ2q_ZuvuamF-2ZSzIUDi_X8SjY9Rit8Z1O1qFo0v-HjuxJJqydAHQZUdQjO0PX6mU4-ZMgk0Hp_XnG49k5cJOMMKhdAsU7KrYy1xmOoA_liOctoM/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4XVEwvDp8aOU7DW0h7GVw2n123kZ2q_ZuvuamF-2ZSzIUDi_X8SjY9Rit8Z1O1qFo0v-HjuxJJqydAHQZUdQjO0PX6mU4-ZMgk0Hp_XnG49k5cJOMMKhdAsU7KrYy1xmOoA_liOctoM/w480-h640/IMG_20200326_123943.jpg" width="480" /></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/AVvXsEiwoMm4oe79MdAewMbS_VPcR-VAwTvAMZg5g4bryxHejqhyphenhyphen9iGkN82u3RsOiRyW7W6r80Il58TMy6Dk14oLs5Wa-wDpVwsaQ5tUBUaMKhde4RcanHhSXWVubgtkhTEyngSMoONu6a66p5g/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoMm4oe79MdAewMbS_VPcR-VAwTvAMZg5g4bryxHejqhyphenhyphen9iGkN82u3RsOiRyW7W6r80Il58TMy6Dk14oLs5Wa-wDpVwsaQ5tUBUaMKhde4RcanHhSXWVubgtkhTEyngSMoONu6a66p5g/w480-h640/IMG_20200404_151837.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLY0m2Q4Yx0lKRMeMjC4f2hPPGUfyqY-KCKc2AimZ1KFgQ_MoExFPkrPuxr9LhMPOwRR_eIpkc7jzTC-c6-iuYVUtj4XPhrng4iRh6Ulf93DJuS47a165zCISpymPe9ketLHcwCw0l88M/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLY0m2Q4Yx0lKRMeMjC4f2hPPGUfyqY-KCKc2AimZ1KFgQ_MoExFPkrPuxr9LhMPOwRR_eIpkc7jzTC-c6-iuYVUtj4XPhrng4iRh6Ulf93DJuS47a165zCISpymPe9ketLHcwCw0l88M/w400-h300/apple+butter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjl2Lw-KToCXYQcRWKxDTWqGecbrfbzTSNH52D2cfIbBMvQMxY_wqAMj97mDXs6wdjK7TUqmamVVPUnPyIlfLxD5zfDfYu16cVTVrvaUv2vpZjEqm0LT0OM6PKCCOhN7Dnb3NbB_bDl6w/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjl2Lw-KToCXYQcRWKxDTWqGecbrfbzTSNH52D2cfIbBMvQMxY_wqAMj97mDXs6wdjK7TUqmamVVPUnPyIlfLxD5zfDfYu16cVTVrvaUv2vpZjEqm0LT0OM6PKCCOhN7Dnb3NbB_bDl6w/w480-h640/canning.jpg" width="480" /></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/AVvXsEhXkutC_ZCVJ1OewKbpKRcx3ezNAbSUkhzte8UD-0lVeP-Co9AABqfMIUHfh-39b4GoqzdaI3371uMDuyxrQUjxIibTOrnZOEVzUF1YWNh_wSAe6jB0_1OmQu_D76wa3kzZbO63Aveos8c/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkutC_ZCVJ1OewKbpKRcx3ezNAbSUkhzte8UD-0lVeP-Co9AABqfMIUHfh-39b4GoqzdaI3371uMDuyxrQUjxIibTOrnZOEVzUF1YWNh_wSAe6jB0_1OmQu_D76wa3kzZbO63Aveos8c/w480-h640/IMG_20200326_123933.jpg" width="480" /></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/AVvXsEjugSrmtQnNi-zSAuRN-OALLMCU8rmOWRPvIKk08TPG_Ymxa69wrbIQWf34dxoxgAExaW_D50zXkEbOQOSuYGB588m5pOYnGZ5LsCoPszAZbXmp0rJOjp-iwJSIb3EnU9RlFTwuFgRU6Tw/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugSrmtQnNi-zSAuRN-OALLMCU8rmOWRPvIKk08TPG_Ymxa69wrbIQWf34dxoxgAExaW_D50zXkEbOQOSuYGB588m5pOYnGZ5LsCoPszAZbXmp0rJOjp-iwJSIb3EnU9RlFTwuFgRU6Tw/w480-h640/IMG_20200327_122315.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
SOME SEWING: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made some little reversible elastic cotton covers for my sourdough. I love the pretty floral fabrics.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They were quite simple to make. Here's a link to a great tutorial on You tube that I used:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lzsiwd8aJdw">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lzsiwd8aJdw</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDzW7PnFTkURRNtE-rMHO_BCbI7pvbM7s8wKcVFAuR3iFK9BM_XatxTj7rEtZJeigKNeOPrjm_LHdTpQZ8Ct5b-ZSdfEMzcPQzDh1I08Z1Xr6Pw8iJL9euuy3taVdeolTxXhxyuRXMi8/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDzW7PnFTkURRNtE-rMHO_BCbI7pvbM7s8wKcVFAuR3iFK9BM_XatxTj7rEtZJeigKNeOPrjm_LHdTpQZ8Ct5b-ZSdfEMzcPQzDh1I08Z1Xr6Pw8iJL9euuy3taVdeolTxXhxyuRXMi8/w240-h320/IMG_20200328_150808.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQp9Ktd3qqNTsFpMy78c1MIy_N0rVdpG1TemwwSVLm25PPwavtMIgkyzUhqXAxhig4YXZCyZANRL7xqtFboNbVZw13u9NlJMHYhcjt8Ot2KvX1k88JLyenaw8FwEM-xOcIl4ht9bWFtxY/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQp9Ktd3qqNTsFpMy78c1MIy_N0rVdpG1TemwwSVLm25PPwavtMIgkyzUhqXAxhig4YXZCyZANRL7xqtFboNbVZw13u9NlJMHYhcjt8Ot2KvX1k88JLyenaw8FwEM-xOcIl4ht9bWFtxY/w240-h320/IMG_20200328_150827.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSuHLkE1_AfJIPVbYVv5MVUmRtFtkcKFTol5HCX4I2dv3KhoPheACuouzD8STfJUAMcjE2Wjj6izTRq098oN05JeRG4bD3SmKx0RVx339ekHXCgXscdyKm1kXgfmCuzFIfjDtJolcGYY/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSuHLkE1_AfJIPVbYVv5MVUmRtFtkcKFTol5HCX4I2dv3KhoPheACuouzD8STfJUAMcjE2Wjj6izTRq098oN05JeRG4bD3SmKx0RVx339ekHXCgXscdyKm1kXgfmCuzFIfjDtJolcGYY/s320/IMG_20200328_154218.jpg" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjATudH3EAAU0A8l7X_XbX4yPO-VpNNJ3_xLD84zEHvjyRkx7hgez4b7DOs6VhhZBo2HM5XnTMwVHfpK_-3IB656OLxslDQh9LktdKYXnn0P8QD4IS_FnqRdeAUwQ0Z-YCvU-F26o4YIRc/s320/IMG_20200328_154853.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3pw47N6SjouPhxFZ0ZiQxPOalMk6n7_msoFOA9-CTxvCGy5PCH0e12jFOTKGZ9dSkVm3MvyZ9tmhUFJNGkSnbKd25mhY_6coK4w3fLmHPNBr0RNQMqaEGVI_duHnSR-71-gg1gMaX14/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3pw47N6SjouPhxFZ0ZiQxPOalMk6n7_msoFOA9-CTxvCGy5PCH0e12jFOTKGZ9dSkVm3MvyZ9tmhUFJNGkSnbKd25mhY_6coK4w3fLmHPNBr0RNQMqaEGVI_duHnSR-71-gg1gMaX14/w480-h640/IMG_20200329_085148.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made several face masks, and while the lock down was in place we wore them when one of us needed to go to the supermarket. I also made them for my parents and was pleased they actually wore them too!</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/AVvXsEiIAevdxYSZGTHCLrdTedENMhbAFNMu2IdAQ-wzR4adNr6sEkQkKio6MM2FqoubiR4SMkpNlK1x9UwjUTizHqLWNd2x4It_-H8ydt0X_Mn6uiJBLfeJI8ZSkBMBQ2FpqshLP5eMVviUgwM/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAevdxYSZGTHCLrdTedENMhbAFNMu2IdAQ-wzR4adNr6sEkQkKio6MM2FqoubiR4SMkpNlK1x9UwjUTizHqLWNd2x4It_-H8ydt0X_Mn6uiJBLfeJI8ZSkBMBQ2FpqshLP5eMVviUgwM/w300-h400/IMG_20200330_163544.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...and lastly I made three new aprons for myself :) I've been alternating two shabby brown aprons for several years now and are so pleased to have finally completed them. I even added pretty lace trims and also a lining. </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/AVvXsEhKqT3wOrNFtLeUzFnXWc4N6D11929flNJ-5hXkbVHzuYOXnhJK_SB-56vSMW56vt_VIoeDeY8dbiifaoZ_J3kcnpX84dpkVQ3HulAnvCOEUlvu0Pa3fnorqMXOwtxz_YjodtptYn_zrBE/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKqT3wOrNFtLeUzFnXWc4N6D11929flNJ-5hXkbVHzuYOXnhJK_SB-56vSMW56vt_VIoeDeY8dbiifaoZ_J3kcnpX84dpkVQ3HulAnvCOEUlvu0Pa3fnorqMXOwtxz_YjodtptYn_zrBE/w300-h400/IMG_20200331_120416.jpg" width="300" /></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/AVvXsEgrn9mVBlM5wUFeoLRXR2pclJcYVU5_nUhYj-hRKuz6Yal8soV_dm1bUmJdE262gtOx2WgvvyBqonG91bMpATDdqO1DIPY3OW01jBULZUgFS6gbnUKXLCi2B36zmDC426IKdS9fQnEqCzo/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrn9mVBlM5wUFeoLRXR2pclJcYVU5_nUhYj-hRKuz6Yal8soV_dm1bUmJdE262gtOx2WgvvyBqonG91bMpATDdqO1DIPY3OW01jBULZUgFS6gbnUKXLCi2B36zmDC426IKdS9fQnEqCzo/w300-h400/IMG_20200330_164444.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">My husband has been working from home for two months now (because of Covid) and will finally return to work next week. It's been lovely having him here even though I had to be very quiet :) It's been a lot less stressful for him too. (please excuse pictures of laundry hanging in every picture..he he. It is Winter here now !)</span></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/AVvXsEiN0JhaNmow_flvDW2NSZXPIZ_R6edPISwsA5GON3y-EuV0Wc2oIY_Nbw1Ib1PrP5omI7CCFKHgsyF2ug6_pulvU6giyoThReH0W2vHbe93rMKhG1-_s46uL-crNG039ObV53Kok_ncv_A/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0JhaNmow_flvDW2NSZXPIZ_R6edPISwsA5GON3y-EuV0Wc2oIY_Nbw1Ib1PrP5omI7CCFKHgsyF2ug6_pulvU6giyoThReH0W2vHbe93rMKhG1-_s46uL-crNG039ObV53Kok_ncv_A/w480-h640/IMG_20200330_120621.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We kept ourselves entertained playing board games :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1Reawxwz7sIx0h8FDGMuArGMmEZYymdHJeB75Ictbi5vsCxFxhYHYFfAYrP3qGZJXUog5YvqRXIepQMiJ8FlcAQ6aPfWOpp7LPacFCtoQXyheikE8TOmsJ5y8BxLL7KsoAoDWo7s6nA/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1Reawxwz7sIx0h8FDGMuArGMmEZYymdHJeB75Ictbi5vsCxFxhYHYFfAYrP3qGZJXUog5YvqRXIepQMiJ8FlcAQ6aPfWOpp7LPacFCtoQXyheikE8TOmsJ5y8BxLL7KsoAoDWo7s6nA/w480-h640/IMG_20200410_144742.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made more soap (of course).. Goats Milk - Lemongrass & Lavender and a special soap to encourage people during the pandemic, called the HOPE soap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwj7bOaK_25KEQZpkDF_gi3v-Vp0Nao1QSCOmT0YWIjESFdVBROBMvQH1moZkXzaUFfJ7F9ds9Z2SG3OLw1U_GYBIOaxGjqWvXxY0Ve_ed50lP_x4MuTY7hXkSmIGgtlaKTx4WRR1N0A/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwj7bOaK_25KEQZpkDF_gi3v-Vp0Nao1QSCOmT0YWIjESFdVBROBMvQH1moZkXzaUFfJ7F9ds9Z2SG3OLw1U_GYBIOaxGjqWvXxY0Ve_ed50lP_x4MuTY7hXkSmIGgtlaKTx4WRR1N0A/w240-h320/IMG_20200403_155428.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj210HuJnG4txC_wy0ZWMCBzRAK0CB-DV3tTXhRTGAFj8-Qiqb3S58LTpPmo3PNvzzDQpgB8-v5FiaaPoTwsNs6iLmnNl7S3FASxaNw52Iq3A5JVAZpPolMxPFDFOzAaLgI5DmNig6ZdVw/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj210HuJnG4txC_wy0ZWMCBzRAK0CB-DV3tTXhRTGAFj8-Qiqb3S58LTpPmo3PNvzzDQpgB8-v5FiaaPoTwsNs6iLmnNl7S3FASxaNw52Iq3A5JVAZpPolMxPFDFOzAaLgI5DmNig6ZdVw/s320/goat+milk+soap.jpg" /></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: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMBImwYn1750g2-IPGvrumP4LGmWWbTM0Zv4D8XeI1v8e6BvcDjRNZ0zETnidL-2gMdt62uK2LjR5TwPlHCkG26QucSGItXyYUa12HVmQuDgwgxXiD1lZ0GPYxkCLjmABU1m0-iUiTjU/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMBImwYn1750g2-IPGvrumP4LGmWWbTM0Zv4D8XeI1v8e6BvcDjRNZ0zETnidL-2gMdt62uK2LjR5TwPlHCkG26QucSGItXyYUa12HVmQuDgwgxXiD1lZ0GPYxkCLjmABU1m0-iUiTjU/w480-h640/IMG_20200414_151640.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've been continuing on with our plant based meals, even though we still include eggs, occasional fish and chicken. We've been enjoying curries with paneer or Haloumi, homemade pasta, roasted cauliflower and Lentil Bolognaise recently.</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/AVvXsEivaP-1Kp6yMO8ug-M3r3lkZN1_iVvhTB3ZqC_b-0JefOI_UX6zg-V8ZPmjdLyIKNG998aiJBVIHvb9ZsaOVU-lIPyejWF0a1EFubCcJk_oo8qunNJ6IWLUQ34wDHJrCm48frEpWOuj-Ys/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivaP-1Kp6yMO8ug-M3r3lkZN1_iVvhTB3ZqC_b-0JefOI_UX6zg-V8ZPmjdLyIKNG998aiJBVIHvb9ZsaOVU-lIPyejWF0a1EFubCcJk_oo8qunNJ6IWLUQ34wDHJrCm48frEpWOuj-Ys/w240-h320/vege+curry.jpg" width="240" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1JhQjfNZv7V2pzjINP5ADGhznjAtPbhUS42jgXDop8LHF2VAnyg16U3xVlm1b6CgONKdJkeYdmWlUWhb_8pxNCTeOH1DlN-eN4ygBeQUWOJTovbCPdiORiPiSLmyp_j1ozPqu2TlMv2A/s320/IMG_20200401_171650.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qs4MqfKOfsxQcIn7qToJESwoceRC80Z5wKJZ6rFF8oXOIxVlIuBFWEaHmcJ2ELe2b9a0iYgpN3FY5hyo6htpM4MhIZ0EoujKJpLHYjQW-VErOn-xxr3OOr67syQxun0OXgLhDJSyLxo/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qs4MqfKOfsxQcIn7qToJESwoceRC80Z5wKJZ6rFF8oXOIxVlIuBFWEaHmcJ2ELe2b9a0iYgpN3FY5hyo6htpM4MhIZ0EoujKJpLHYjQW-VErOn-xxr3OOr67syQxun0OXgLhDJSyLxo/s320/IMG_20200407_105047.jpg" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNj_cgttpNQxd7UB3keM6Et1Mr1nGr3KjchHzUZ8hr3iHz-0pmzWxABZGG0wCtqjbCZQa1Vl-8rXjC878Ngr85AB9AtgzPMw8CeS7QmLO3C0bOGyyfDETbmFzrAucvp2aXO6qmUZFY-OQ/s320/pasta.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I hung some herbs to dry - Sage, Basil and Thyme..and enjoyed stripping them off the stems once dry, putting them in jars and making pretty labels. They taste wonderful in our meals and it's so good to know they are organically grown too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98rlmO9Qs0r-ClMtIj4yFmKzfsgdQDoEg5lxl6FFC_ZzbpdKe6BiOaTFqLIf5OqC_aYbpaMRcmIRF5pbmhbQAbeY1jTn7G-m8msveJn1UMZbP7pGJnCiLe8cZU2yy1RaHXwJXe0cCx2I/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98rlmO9Qs0r-ClMtIj4yFmKzfsgdQDoEg5lxl6FFC_ZzbpdKe6BiOaTFqLIf5OqC_aYbpaMRcmIRF5pbmhbQAbeY1jTn7G-m8msveJn1UMZbP7pGJnCiLe8cZU2yy1RaHXwJXe0cCx2I/s320/IMG_20200325_150832.jpg" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMp5CVkWxF8e0eNaVyWF8jdWxLeX8BItCpcnICaw_oSJCF3ZSfTx-iS-QxvFuDhn92vZakVquliXBcVUOVXy7kXlKnVippO9kiXrstDtPVUClNP5eY8aPre8Gn0ZGbJNxXfAOURXN5WxE/s320/IMG_20200325_153224.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /></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/AVvXsEiI3viWaKhi4TJD2dTE6MMndpiR6x0QqOLezUPvhMko1pmaH2rKhqzslEpakYBq7-szBTRoalM45ak4fsyQmHvnI9cbRUp7e-9cjbG4EcDXjGYcpJxIujGHIp_rg10yeYaNiq0t0r6AJjI/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3viWaKhi4TJD2dTE6MMndpiR6x0QqOLezUPvhMko1pmaH2rKhqzslEpakYBq7-szBTRoalM45ak4fsyQmHvnI9cbRUp7e-9cjbG4EcDXjGYcpJxIujGHIp_rg10yeYaNiq0t0r6AJjI/w300-h400/IMG_20200326_145922.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
H O M E: It's such a joy for me to care for my husband and our home. I know I've said it before but I truly do love the things I do here - cleaning, placing vases of freshly picked flowers here and there, turning on a lamp to make a room feel cosier, recovering cushions to freshen up a room, using the vegetables in our garden to make our meals healthier, preserving our harvest so we'll have fruit to enjoy during the cold Winter months, stripping down the beds, washing blankets and quilts and putting on fluffy warm winciette sheets as the cooler nights come closer. All these things I enjoy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found this old notice called the Homemakers Creed and just love the words:</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/AVvXsEh8kUPcpxPzQN1M9bKajfZb1mSqN9TzWrk3hKktX8IH4Rg1kyEjRnRKbLE67lBWWbO3s_uZG4GUGXtJ13rDiLADsO_ycobwpkyqrj-YPJHmu23B3ZAh8FT9c1qR9d1NhfcIR31zg5miKMs/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="588" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kUPcpxPzQN1M9bKajfZb1mSqN9TzWrk3hKktX8IH4Rg1kyEjRnRKbLE67lBWWbO3s_uZG4GUGXtJ13rDiLADsO_ycobwpkyqrj-YPJHmu23B3ZAh8FT9c1qR9d1NhfcIR31zg5miKMs/w418-h640/82269352_1252175391650203_5573817082811777024_n.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love to save images of homes, especially country style or vintage, pictures of simply prepared food like bread, baking, washing on the line or someone tending their garden. They remind me of my childhood and lovely days spent with my Nana, where we would just laugh and laugh. </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/AVvXsEhwFSr0jMCA3xnuTpNgmYPDYjGlV1aJYKMfcbcFw7CEm_7X0QIvL_Loh3lL0Qd68O7lOXxMo1FEwDGlCfP3Vs7Dvr8VtI5GLXcTU5A-T21qEmtgHbiUbypQtDq67wmW-yYr-r5nCulUqHM/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="491" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFSr0jMCA3xnuTpNgmYPDYjGlV1aJYKMfcbcFw7CEm_7X0QIvL_Loh3lL0Qd68O7lOXxMo1FEwDGlCfP3Vs7Dvr8VtI5GLXcTU5A-T21qEmtgHbiUbypQtDq67wmW-yYr-r5nCulUqHM/w400-h368/nana+at+the+sink.jpg" width="400" /></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/AVvXsEhB_z0jAo9eFHXDW9PVCape4HVlv9t9UitUhri8LomXL_M38v7n1J5Dgdmkk8mZYJEglFgAgkBGkF_54jcBxvqfTI3IKAKLc6r3gKgWty-V3kmlDqVQl3t9jentBHYlTzufgTvIIvuCsrw/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_z0jAo9eFHXDW9PVCape4HVlv9t9UitUhri8LomXL_M38v7n1J5Dgdmkk8mZYJEglFgAgkBGkF_54jcBxvqfTI3IKAKLc6r3gKgWty-V3kmlDqVQl3t9jentBHYlTzufgTvIIvuCsrw/w324-h400/bread+rising.jpg" width="324" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
........</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well that's all from me, I pray you are all keeping well and </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
trying to stay close to God (the only way to stay sane in these troubled times the world is in!) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
God Bless ~ Linda</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/AVvXsEhy1FNcDE7Z5jHPAa_lxNDFPzg4VBaYIDIZ014i9HHWy-5m-9vmt83jCgQCexhriaUTXDe0G5FO15osAeXPy3g0bDbdJFGp5Hh8VWlyNp1vXUUDa1cnee_rJwM-e1wSqPzWmy_KbmPR9rY/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="333" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1FNcDE7Z5jHPAa_lxNDFPzg4VBaYIDIZ014i9HHWy-5m-9vmt83jCgQCexhriaUTXDe0G5FO15osAeXPy3g0bDbdJFGp5Hh8VWlyNp1vXUUDa1cnee_rJwM-e1wSqPzWmy_KbmPR9rY/w290-h400/79415128_1229996653868077_3838390277907677184_n.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "corbel" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 2: 29 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. ~ May we all remain and walk in that light.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></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: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></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: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></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: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-39962216843243287652020-03-16T01:55:00.002-07:002020-03-16T14:17:27.914-07:00Cleaning & clearing Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi everyone,<br />
I hope you are all washing your hands :) It is silly really that people need to be told to do this, but obviously not many people were before, or at least not doing it properly. There's no worries here at the little homestead however, especially considering I'm in the soap business lol !! he he, but seriously, whoever saw all of this coming !!! certainly not me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVQAENB7nIqBOExv_u2DA1bm_aP17T5va44gGyeAaDr8o5AC2yKe86jotFWbavKe4i4n6N6-etI-heTqZo_OyWk4uT8Cce6m-cxH_b_-jloCNzjAXM4jW-4frA283sQfntyb6ZDZgQZo/s1600/this-is-the-way-we-wash-our-clothes-george-dunlop-leslie-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="297" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVQAENB7nIqBOExv_u2DA1bm_aP17T5va44gGyeAaDr8o5AC2yKe86jotFWbavKe4i4n6N6-etI-heTqZo_OyWk4uT8Cce6m-cxH_b_-jloCNzjAXM4jW-4frA283sQfntyb6ZDZgQZo/s400/this-is-the-way-we-wash-our-clothes-george-dunlop-leslie-.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">As we are now in Autumn here in our little corner of the world, the mornings and evenings are cooler and wouldn't you know it sniffles/colds/virus etc have arrived as well. My husband is currently tucked up in bed with a sore throat. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I decided to make up another batch of Theives. If you've never heard of it, it's a blend of 5 essential oils: Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Clove and Cinnamon. I'll attach a link if your interested in making it. I know companies like 'Young Living' essential oils sell it, as do other companies, maybe under a different name? I had the oils on hand anyway, so chose to just make some for my family. From my research I know it is not effective against Coronavirus, but it is still effective against germs and bacteria. I will be diffusing it to purify the air in our home and also adding drops to my homemade spray cleaner. I also purchased some hospital grade medicated wipes which I'm using to wipe door handles etc with (at the moment), just to be hyper cautious. Every little bit helps in my opinion.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://homemadelovely.com/how-to-make-your-own-thieves-essential-oil/">https://homemadelovely.com/how-to-make-your-own-thieves-essential-oil/</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Also I will attach a link to a really informative video regarding hand sanitizers. If you are at all interested in making your own their are certain facts to know regarding what will actually be effective against these virus's like coronavirus.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVvtF5uOX3Q&feature=youtu.be&mc_cid=f4ec32ab22&mc_eid=2d5fd0e9c4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVvtF5uOX3Q&feature=youtu.be&mc_cid=f4ec32ab22&mc_eid=2d5fd0e9c4</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhujsEYXTiCwcqZ-qsb9aJdBTouCbj9riBsd1g3hzT1KfkHmnq039ez1ueOJjk6Bk7_wEviU7H0fzBlgC0H0Osqq2RSPXXuGwugQ6JHgcBjM9Ypluf_il1Fsf9lZORRJBgIGb5sYVHT4rY/s1600/GettyImages-3291878-d3f5ffd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="620" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhujsEYXTiCwcqZ-qsb9aJdBTouCbj9riBsd1g3hzT1KfkHmnq039ez1ueOJjk6Bk7_wEviU7H0fzBlgC0H0Osqq2RSPXXuGwugQ6JHgcBjM9Ypluf_il1Fsf9lZORRJBgIGb5sYVHT4rY/s400/GettyImages-3291878-d3f5ffd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ ~ ~ 0 ~ ~ ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Other News:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've just been super busy here at home cleaning, clearing and sorting and oh my does it feel good. I am steadily working my way through this house sorting cupboards, wardrobes etc. The last post mentioned my linen cupboard, well last week it was the Pantry. I actually have two. One is smaller and its more of a prepper style pantry where I just store extra canned goods, dry food etc. I am including before and after pantry pics. I havn't properly cleaned this large pantry out for a coupe of years. All I've done is wiped shelves down, but not properly emptied it out o clean as I've been too jolly busy...anyway you can see for yourself: (the big pantry)</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/AVvXsEhdZOIGPs3cYT_Km3Zk-WJOY-4fQwi2YGRWA0D9X1cBw_uRyh2AWAwOv00qIgA7lr7qgEduoyj5hDnvUO6LXPKRKFTJtso2N_oCrshC4hbHHMZ7nEB-CI5NePTUIdl4JPhITXDLaeEaLPw/s1600/IMG_20200312_141041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZOIGPs3cYT_Km3Zk-WJOY-4fQwi2YGRWA0D9X1cBw_uRyh2AWAwOv00qIgA7lr7qgEduoyj5hDnvUO6LXPKRKFTJtso2N_oCrshC4hbHHMZ7nEB-CI5NePTUIdl4JPhITXDLaeEaLPw/s640/IMG_20200312_141041.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
A big jumbled up mess..packets, bottles, cake tins, bags of flour..everything very disorganized. It was hard to know at times where things were and if I even had pinto beans hiding in there? I hate to be wasteful and if I end up having to throw something out because it was shoved to the back of the pantry and then has expired, that makes me upset. Food is something to be very thankful for ! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know with some people having to stay home and self quarantine right now, its the perfect opportunity to get stuck in and make that time work for you. Get cleaning :)</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGckOnaVD44jCmhucJLoucrIlOPWqOzHOt1dC4sEpdglpgV-ryMwvZ0Li8iW72xWF_GOiVYZISXz-_ZscyCJZNqXL0V_VrGki5DECTMsGvK_dki0LdIMIE8JZu3o5w7-JEeRLQni-Hbk/s1600/IMG_20200312_141009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGckOnaVD44jCmhucJLoucrIlOPWqOzHOt1dC4sEpdglpgV-ryMwvZ0Li8iW72xWF_GOiVYZISXz-_ZscyCJZNqXL0V_VrGki5DECTMsGvK_dki0LdIMIE8JZu3o5w7-JEeRLQni-Hbk/s640/IMG_20200312_141009.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Okay, this is where it got ugly...oh my what have I started !! ?? It took me two and a half days to empty it all out, sort what I wanted to keep, clean and reorganize in new jars. The original jars were preserving jars, so they are just going back into my canning cupboard :)</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/AVvXsEgkOAw9Vb7rNlc4ZWKhUkpPzBS7YwLL-OHhPW9rV1-PUzn9zZGklLSqB_7QJS7vqZiAEuonM7PW5VHvs35W7djw0-WQk-_s6KT6TYyJ_11HQIkR0buY_fV3pMcFeq-N3yvd4taSMiRp4es/s1600/IMG_20200313_155050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOAw9Vb7rNlc4ZWKhUkpPzBS7YwLL-OHhPW9rV1-PUzn9zZGklLSqB_7QJS7vqZiAEuonM7PW5VHvs35W7djw0-WQk-_s6KT6TYyJ_11HQIkR0buY_fV3pMcFeq-N3yvd4taSMiRp4es/s640/IMG_20200313_155050.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and then finally ta da...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMGZWkNTW6wFxlB92UdKTRSKWRVZjLg-WK5ROfSfbBbBSEI0by6tDzImaQEfrqKNuAOCiHgcrFDxTZWzUJekS8M7u-GI7Dd1eHVZg65to7OX1HoZA2skByBE8O4nX93PqZIEGwZInD14/s1600/IMG_20200314_181527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMGZWkNTW6wFxlB92UdKTRSKWRVZjLg-WK5ROfSfbBbBSEI0by6tDzImaQEfrqKNuAOCiHgcrFDxTZWzUJekS8M7u-GI7Dd1eHVZg65to7OX1HoZA2skByBE8O4nX93PqZIEGwZInD14/s640/IMG_20200314_181527.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One side contains the dehydrator, electric frypan, crockpot, cake tins..non food related items etc. and the other side is all food. The white plastic baskets contain things that are not used that often and I don't particularly want to look at all the time. I wanted the pantry to be simple, clean, tidy, and functional. Now I know exactly what's in there and it's so easy to find everything. I also arranged things so the weightier items (like large jars of bottled fruit) are all on the bottom shelf.</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/AVvXsEgB6tmWwvTwltmxnhJo60DtivhBwgaXs-DBT-aaVAq17E7QaS4CggMmskGO0ImbRrUoxZ_LuCRyyW-bgsZLmkh5TNCTnmUmLOGOu7jmszLFPV2UDZ0GlRZDpMPtswIIAqJTD0EM-_7nTXk/s1600/IMG_20200314_181516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB6tmWwvTwltmxnhJo60DtivhBwgaXs-DBT-aaVAq17E7QaS4CggMmskGO0ImbRrUoxZ_LuCRyyW-bgsZLmkh5TNCTnmUmLOGOu7jmszLFPV2UDZ0GlRZDpMPtswIIAqJTD0EM-_7nTXk/s400/IMG_20200314_181516.jpg" width="300" /></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/AVvXsEiEjFODwSKan40XBbi5jbrJQ3JXH7m2zubMnO8eU7l1nm3Rikmz9cTnWpzpqm1doHWsFKEC6dW9CnAmYDwJT1ObI_KkN0Y7b5Mo2VifWvvTjIfF95oMSYxXr2J66_PifGPmC4hyK9wEFSI/s1600/IMG_20200314_181537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjFODwSKan40XBbi5jbrJQ3JXH7m2zubMnO8eU7l1nm3Rikmz9cTnWpzpqm1doHWsFKEC6dW9CnAmYDwJT1ObI_KkN0Y7b5Mo2VifWvvTjIfF95oMSYxXr2J66_PifGPmC4hyK9wEFSI/s640/IMG_20200314_181537.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWTz0UJ4CbhpQrLE4Jxag56KDHourdoa1_tPbiX9R_3xzsWZRaW9noVMnFXd_MIDA7Ac7AVJokfH26E7ZPXXS03r6l_fpcj8kLMnF1eA_XVUZoN35cTAmYQ5SAtvC2KpTIi1XOKwPbiI/s1600/IMG_20200316_132943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWTz0UJ4CbhpQrLE4Jxag56KDHourdoa1_tPbiX9R_3xzsWZRaW9noVMnFXd_MIDA7Ac7AVJokfH26E7ZPXXS03r6l_fpcj8kLMnF1eA_XVUZoN35cTAmYQ5SAtvC2KpTIi1XOKwPbiI/s400/IMG_20200316_132943.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ Of course I had to make my own jar labels. I have label paper on hand that I use in my soap business. Its water and grease proof, so will stand up to some handling. I'm pleased with the result and think they look a tad vintage too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicprZetHq7O8w47c5axRo2M6_Hg4YoPuSltkQjZjh8WFvOZk-ulT1kH2hq7sIdslmANKfm6OufRVz_w9V6h0E1ADZ1JAe0FkHutm6ITzJh4yd-BbQr4mH9FLu8ic-WEr93jZVj1sWh5cY/s1600/IMG_20200316_132947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicprZetHq7O8w47c5axRo2M6_Hg4YoPuSltkQjZjh8WFvOZk-ulT1kH2hq7sIdslmANKfm6OufRVz_w9V6h0E1ADZ1JAe0FkHutm6ITzJh4yd-BbQr4mH9FLu8ic-WEr93jZVj1sWh5cY/s400/IMG_20200316_132947.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
These other labels were made with an electrotag maker..but then it broke half way through..grrr, so that's why I made my own, and I actually like my ones better. (smile)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvnWdvKF5S2fRy-06ExN8CdY-bAXRNmpdjw9D_qpYkrDXyU94k1yTO7IPGnpXmntk8cSEazhkpj4W-C0voVI10rnwAlox3uv6_ox9wPOFQx38xVqlNq3r6ZjKBb56ytsO_SZLJVJ-uNA/s1600/IMG_20200314_081029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvnWdvKF5S2fRy-06ExN8CdY-bAXRNmpdjw9D_qpYkrDXyU94k1yTO7IPGnpXmntk8cSEazhkpj4W-C0voVI10rnwAlox3uv6_ox9wPOFQx38xVqlNq3r6ZjKBb56ytsO_SZLJVJ-uNA/s640/IMG_20200314_081029.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...then just because I don't know when to stop, I rearranged, cleaned and sorted out my spice drawer !!! That was a big job too. I didn't do a before pic (forgot), but this is the completed look. I colour coded the labels to make it easier for me to see without my glasses :). I had all the wee jars already up in my jar stash..now that's another story !!</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/AVvXsEj3ZFKlc5WXuAq0MLKt-lRbIxMfMvIWVRT2-bgJSwQpg4gxhljmU98UB7arbD8KDHlRZScCKQ72GXnfCaBo5wCMKB4hWaL8tz9lJ8wSP_EtwBXn-DR0dqGRQwNEj7wqzajOv59P2M01Js8/s1600/IMG_20200314_181449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZFKlc5WXuAq0MLKt-lRbIxMfMvIWVRT2-bgJSwQpg4gxhljmU98UB7arbD8KDHlRZScCKQ72GXnfCaBo5wCMKB4hWaL8tz9lJ8wSP_EtwBXn-DR0dqGRQwNEj7wqzajOv59P2M01Js8/s400/IMG_20200314_181449.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGlVK-c5POmkIY2NwHlFQBgXYY118ivUPZFJwflwAE3cvGcYiVZg4OydRDD98JMFm7TrZIgBNgtKrBQryQQiPsSTcq0qnR9QQUfl4RY7JicxD2kC6QDM_qQoz8R352CcmrDX4tQG3DhM/s1600/IMG_20200314_181458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGlVK-c5POmkIY2NwHlFQBgXYY118ivUPZFJwflwAE3cvGcYiVZg4OydRDD98JMFm7TrZIgBNgtKrBQryQQiPsSTcq0qnR9QQUfl4RY7JicxD2kC6QDM_qQoz8R352CcmrDX4tQG3DhM/s400/IMG_20200314_181458.jpg" width="300" /></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;">
<b>Gathering/Harvesting:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our garden is winding down for the year and didn't do as well as other years. Because of that I haven't been able to preserve as many jars of relish/pickle. I normally make tomato salsa every year, but the tomatoes haven't done as well either. It truly has been odd weather. We've made a lot of jam though :) And for the first year we have been able to harvest some figs. They are little, but still delicious and such a treat for me.</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/AVvXsEgqAeozTLQ2cXWqyA2l9oB2un3AlYIjuQH2CtSWUZAWrgasLUKF9ktCrMhK9bQMWWfata85ZrZW1xHsmVPQdWU1pRfApdMiKQdy-n6HcrxaEQNpBEB1Ba-AWHRKQb2QkFEdYhG1ybsZPkI/s1600/IMG_20200315_133725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAeozTLQ2cXWqyA2l9oB2un3AlYIjuQH2CtSWUZAWrgasLUKF9ktCrMhK9bQMWWfata85ZrZW1xHsmVPQdWU1pRfApdMiKQdy-n6HcrxaEQNpBEB1Ba-AWHRKQb2QkFEdYhG1ybsZPkI/s400/IMG_20200315_133725.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCyaNw75R1_aKGbki6lTL-2OAl0xiAjIRtdUgadXRRIcRoCf9f0Wbed1QxTIoKjk7dOEbzhnEPuCsaETMDZRRxO2CNP18wWNxI1IwchLwNrWMkxVDrn1xspI6kbaPN3GmEaKowVxVang/s1600/IMG_20200315_133659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCyaNw75R1_aKGbki6lTL-2OAl0xiAjIRtdUgadXRRIcRoCf9f0Wbed1QxTIoKjk7dOEbzhnEPuCsaETMDZRRxO2CNP18wWNxI1IwchLwNrWMkxVDrn1xspI6kbaPN3GmEaKowVxVang/s400/IMG_20200315_133659.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ A simple lunch for me: Fresh Cox's Orange apples of off our tree, some sliced edam cheese, and a pumpkin muffin with homemade almond butter in the middle = delicious</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/AVvXsEgaTsaU6srZ0n2UGeHmLn3GgRiyfgoMtQyCJiWgMxlc05SbXxz6vXwwXrl2wU3p6UvWUcndiv-npHhmoZicQVg2GUqYMoSqZbRaefjDdyCdSFvk65QJFNOrf4aVZxT75YbGg0qnOxBOmO4/s1600/IMG_20200316_124810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTsaU6srZ0n2UGeHmLn3GgRiyfgoMtQyCJiWgMxlc05SbXxz6vXwwXrl2wU3p6UvWUcndiv-npHhmoZicQVg2GUqYMoSqZbRaefjDdyCdSFvk65QJFNOrf4aVZxT75YbGg0qnOxBOmO4/s400/IMG_20200316_124810.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other baking: 'Date and Orange Scones'</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our oranges are starting to get a bit dry now, but the zest is still lovely and they do still give</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
a little juice, so I made a simple scone recipe: (1/2 wholemeal flour and 1/2 self-raising white) - all up it was 3 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 cup or more of milk, I squeezed in some fresh orange juice, and grated the zest of 1 x orange. I added about 1.5 cups of chopped dates and a pinch of salt. 1/3rd - 1/2 cup brown sugar. I rub 50 grams of butter into the flour. Then I stir in the zest, sugar, salt, dates, sugar, and pour in the milk and orange juice. Mix to a scone dough consistency. Continue to make as you would a scone recipe. I bake them at 190 Celcius for about 15 - 20 minutes.</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/AVvXsEiN9-QhKhSM2MnmpzUAsOnpzOLQa5hE45BYawBjiTxYxxm0rXFrutiLYLz5LnzJ6XwkVs-3mQhPiKjlp3g3fNPIyKsB30NRVAc9fH7zX2PQDazG1dy4oEngy67ysAgFO0Sl8Nve_1jhjgg/s1600/IMG_20200306_140908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9-QhKhSM2MnmpzUAsOnpzOLQa5hE45BYawBjiTxYxxm0rXFrutiLYLz5LnzJ6XwkVs-3mQhPiKjlp3g3fNPIyKsB30NRVAc9fH7zX2PQDazG1dy4oEngy67ysAgFO0Sl8Nve_1jhjgg/s400/IMG_20200306_140908.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ 'Kale Burgers' ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I follow a couple of ladies on YouTube. The channel is called Jane Essylstyn. They have some great recipes for plant based eating. Her father is a heart doctor and the recipes are for people who may have a history of heart disease and need to be careful of their diet. I have just purchased their book. Anyway I ramble, I just wanted to say I tried one of their recipes. They are Vegan and it was really good :) We will eat these again !! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOlcFti25JmF8-RWYMcwO9ggPL6k8Jn2q1XtUFnLvr-Oxp_2xZ8scANz3KUyGg_4Rpqcff6Cs6BfODVrjG0AXbaJou1_6y-je1hRCaev5BZ6HmtWSZ4EOGmGL2jFV8riqYqhw7HbTbdQ/s1600/IMG_20200312_175037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOlcFti25JmF8-RWYMcwO9ggPL6k8Jn2q1XtUFnLvr-Oxp_2xZ8scANz3KUyGg_4Rpqcff6Cs6BfODVrjG0AXbaJou1_6y-je1hRCaev5BZ6HmtWSZ4EOGmGL2jFV8riqYqhw7HbTbdQ/s640/IMG_20200312_175037.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ I served them on English Sourdough Muffins - homemade of course ~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1idScllB4woh38MS9RQJApBu2RNJMK7B3BWfa26l1yebjx7cT2vQTaZuUiWvVlgeh6vfRIU5Gdx5jbO_zeU3uduHQYl3fRCDN67sJ4OJvSPMhAJe4tW81vFS-FBIy6RyfjTn0f_deqI/s1600/IMG_20200312_182702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1385" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1idScllB4woh38MS9RQJApBu2RNJMK7B3BWfa26l1yebjx7cT2vQTaZuUiWvVlgeh6vfRIU5Gdx5jbO_zeU3uduHQYl3fRCDN67sJ4OJvSPMhAJe4tW81vFS-FBIy6RyfjTn0f_deqI/s640/IMG_20200312_182702.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is a link to their channel. The recipe for Kale Burgers is on there. It just consists of Kale (obviously), sweet potato, kidney beans, other veges and hot sauce). I added a couple of extra tweaks and may make my own video of me making it in the future.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuXHGdPyxJc&t=281s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuXHGdPyxJc&t=281s</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well dear friends and quiet followers, that is about all for now. I just wanted to check in with you all and let you know how we are. We haven't managed anymore painting of the house and quite frankly it will probably have to wait until next Spring now...and that's okay :) We feel we did well this summer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If anything I've written here has helped or encouraged you in anyway I would love to hear from you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feel free to leave me a wee comment. I love to receive them and will write a reply.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~~~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and finally...my prayer is for all those in the medical profession who are working so tirelessly to help those who are ill. They themselves could be at risk, yet they faithfully serve in their professions to care for others in need. Oh Lord please protect and bless these people.</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/AVvXsEi5v4KfbLix35aFJ8VwAqd-1J9sJfu5m4nddqO3HXlg7BiaTWsMi4V-mJCxHYezJj5cfKVdeHzH1-FoJAxG0HaYOOec1HD1UZ0xP4S-Amy-imHYT-eL8N-EeoZoRXeUcSS_l_sbv8xSsBs/s1600/victorian-cleanliness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="980" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v4KfbLix35aFJ8VwAqd-1J9sJfu5m4nddqO3HXlg7BiaTWsMi4V-mJCxHYezJj5cfKVdeHzH1-FoJAxG0HaYOOec1HD1UZ0xP4S-Amy-imHYT-eL8N-EeoZoRXeUcSS_l_sbv8xSsBs/s640/victorian-cleanliness.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></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: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849778772100810529.post-41651817962166587572020-03-08T23:34:00.001-07:002020-03-16T14:17:56.110-07:00Marching into March..<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHlkP7OJdiv0tM4dlxf_vlBQAV66enH4WfSsevraxIuNSl1m7SXB4f2r7rwy27QLRXp7_2wVQh-YtEMFavaZYwo5AnUfVJgDDoqdfLGhF53KE1QDCMVNRUmX02VbZ3rNLDa1lEfdU9Ms/s1600/original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHlkP7OJdiv0tM4dlxf_vlBQAV66enH4WfSsevraxIuNSl1m7SXB4f2r7rwy27QLRXp7_2wVQh-YtEMFavaZYwo5AnUfVJgDDoqdfLGhF53KE1QDCMVNRUmX02VbZ3rNLDa1lEfdU9Ms/s400/original.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Well Hello again :)<br />
I'm super excited right now because we've had rain...oh how glorious. When I awoke last week and my husband said it's been raining in the night, I felt like running outside and doing a little dance :) Our property was crunchy, plants were withering and the grass is mostly all brown. We've been under a fire ban for months and only allowed hand held hose watering every second day, early morning or evening. If your not a super early riser and tired in the evening, that made everything garden related a little bit difficult. Anyway a little spot of rain was wonderful. Now a whole lot more of it would be great.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMU-TES72lW2SkP7VmcV6DPEdJqjQ2h39CK-bLLFf53uhB0ol4JVXdKOi6-NzRyMkvAXJyI-fKDECMX8MedWAcHq7VabvOFtQQsPyqFFiRlKGkOWtM9Z8Lgv1oEsQLo9n8vzaHreQgs4/s1600/IMG_20200212_093126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMU-TES72lW2SkP7VmcV6DPEdJqjQ2h39CK-bLLFf53uhB0ol4JVXdKOi6-NzRyMkvAXJyI-fKDECMX8MedWAcHq7VabvOFtQQsPyqFFiRlKGkOWtM9Z8Lgv1oEsQLo9n8vzaHreQgs4/s400/IMG_20200212_093126.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9DEdon9STY0o3vFj2Q3_ayCUgsCjCDuEnkXLHbQj0Dm4i95AGb65RosQ_yEH7R966jcOYM0-PUG7rFSjQFlMNi6s2sKGgxZxd7mNC5t73huIxzz5rABpkkrUOgHsQ9KxBaZjTw1Qlqc/s1600/1500065582-unknown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9DEdon9STY0o3vFj2Q3_ayCUgsCjCDuEnkXLHbQj0Dm4i95AGb65RosQ_yEH7R966jcOYM0-PUG7rFSjQFlMNi6s2sKGgxZxd7mNC5t73huIxzz5rABpkkrUOgHsQ9KxBaZjTw1Qlqc/s400/1500065582-unknown.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
It's officially Autumn now here in New Zealand and we're having cooler mornings and evenings, which I'm very grateful for (not being a hot weather lover). We're gathering in the last of the harvest..tomatoes, plums and beans etc. We've also come up with a plan to manage our large garden, to make it easier on ourselves as we get older. This mainly involves turning areas of garden we never get around to weeding back into lawn. Initially this idea saddened me, but now I've come around to the realization that this will take away a lot of stress and worry about the property getting out of hand. I know life is all about change and adapting. I remember a wise teacher once saying 'If you keep on doing what you've always done, you'll keep on getting what you've always got...something like that. So..if I want to enjoy the garden and not have it looming over me like an out of control monster, then we just need to make changes, even though I've never been very good with change ...but I'm slowly learning that change is good and necessary. And... the sky hasn't fallen down yet. Thanks Chicken Lickin :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AzVtyr7zJ28DpZP19P68iKZsr3AolqcesPFRDBfZa1oeMMSFowceldVA3a_N2J5tq-JyR0ciWuLV7Ryrz3eQqO6sZDpDqHcvX11_KCbY6Wh0uvLmpe84Jr9T9af10vBCki3lgEYMj3I/s1600/IMG_20200226_115035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AzVtyr7zJ28DpZP19P68iKZsr3AolqcesPFRDBfZa1oeMMSFowceldVA3a_N2J5tq-JyR0ciWuLV7Ryrz3eQqO6sZDpDqHcvX11_KCbY6Wh0uvLmpe84Jr9T9af10vBCki3lgEYMj3I/s320/IMG_20200226_115035.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxr53Z0TYUAZV-afFCTVzIm3vs9moAFYfyaQ3scRQeHQOz8WmT_C8LgwJgaCwxywDzHr_LZarSXZskJefoqZC410Gfo3mJUgYJ9UtUfMenlDtLPJKRtf-_IZyDWQBhQs_HyuQgBTJl4rI/s1600/IMG_20200226_121820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxr53Z0TYUAZV-afFCTVzIm3vs9moAFYfyaQ3scRQeHQOz8WmT_C8LgwJgaCwxywDzHr_LZarSXZskJefoqZC410Gfo3mJUgYJ9UtUfMenlDtLPJKRtf-_IZyDWQBhQs_HyuQgBTJl4rI/s320/IMG_20200226_121820.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
In the above pictures my husband and myself (the little painting snob) are painting the back (south side of our old house). It's a section that was added on in the 80's or 90's..so doesn't look like the rest of the house (Villa circa. 1880). It may not look like it in the picture, but it was actually a stinking hot day !!! This was taken about 10.00 am and the day proceeded to become a scorcher. We managed two full days at the painting lark, then took one day off and continued on again for another day. We may do a little bit more before Winter, then the rest will wait until Spring.<br />
Painting our weatherboard house is a huge project for us, but broken up into sections, even if it takes a couple of years, is definitely achievable and cheaper than paying someone (which isn't in the budget :)<br />
<br />
OTHER THINGS:<br />
This year I am focusing on my health and working to achieve balance in my life. Maybe it's my age, but I easily become overwhelmed and can become anxious. I run a small business from home (making soap) and at times (leading up to Christmas) it's been a bit too much work...and before I know it I've been working every hour that God sends :( night and day. That's been my life for the last few years + cooking, cleaning, and gardening here at home and helping my daughter two days a week. I might not have been truly 'working outside the home', but sometimes I felt like a freight train out of control. People suggest I expand the business and take on a person to help, but I have never desired it become 'bigger'. My priority has always been my husband and family and so I work to hard to ensure it doesn't have a negative impact on my role (which I love) of wife and mother. So anyways I realized I was just doing too much and something had to change. It was either give it up altogether or seriously put the brakes on. My health was suffering, I have problems sleeping and I was under a lot of stress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gxAvOGVaSGEo91PNChQEAon8p0PedETD0yLMHVO5L4RD1liqbacURHorVt9bc7cWIWSeX5YqEQfjstrV7H4ltiUOb3qr0EVACwUjPKSw4yhS1wT_kxBDczdc5O7tmZZk8yGfulYG0VI/s1600/IMG_2523a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gxAvOGVaSGEo91PNChQEAon8p0PedETD0yLMHVO5L4RD1liqbacURHorVt9bc7cWIWSeX5YqEQfjstrV7H4ltiUOb3qr0EVACwUjPKSw4yhS1wT_kxBDczdc5O7tmZZk8yGfulYG0VI/s400/IMG_2523a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~Apple Blossom Rose ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBuGVK82ysjITLJBDQQsF4YJuR4HXnLHbti9iwQDG70yrKu6BPJTdntYNTKrJHTzzTy34ubOYEK79iLB3wOiZ4OcrIxOsrPOcq23F_F-iOkQxE8OcoU3-0cvPAugYKpO6vPaM5KbpNpg/s1600/IMG_2518a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1584" data-original-width="1600" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBuGVK82ysjITLJBDQQsF4YJuR4HXnLHbti9iwQDG70yrKu6BPJTdntYNTKrJHTzzTy34ubOYEK79iLB3wOiZ4OcrIxOsrPOcq23F_F-iOkQxE8OcoU3-0cvPAugYKpO6vPaM5KbpNpg/s400/IMG_2518a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ Coconut Milk and Calendula ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So after much prayer, I feel able to let a lot of things go and I feel so much better for it. If products are out of stock..well they just are, and I'm not panicking or busting a gut to get things made quickly. My husbands always telling me 'You started all this and it's up to you whether or not you want to continue' :) I think it's finally sunk in :) It all started as a hobby, then just snow balled. Anyway enough about all that. Maybe if I was a lot younger things would be different, but I'm not.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxb-NdI7zulCEASbrDVlBHiPruLi86Qt5-vGS_38jgal7NxevA1toqH9keS0hWB4U2N5Bped_AkjCoCfqmuPbaSo2XKK-D5X3VO5Re8KlCz2UQE-RnvqmqfW_ow_8NkSTMRt1UuZTOmg/s1600/IMG_20200212_132545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxb-NdI7zulCEASbrDVlBHiPruLi86Qt5-vGS_38jgal7NxevA1toqH9keS0hWB4U2N5Bped_AkjCoCfqmuPbaSo2XKK-D5X3VO5Re8KlCz2UQE-RnvqmqfW_ow_8NkSTMRt1UuZTOmg/s400/IMG_20200212_132545.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
DIET/HEALTH RELATED THINGS:<br />
I'm back into THM (Trim Healthy Mama) style of eating..back on the trim train as I call it. I was noever completely off it, I just got slack and ate too many treats over Christmas :(<br />
In an earlier post I shared about my desire to eat more vegetarian meals like I did when I was younger (which I want to continue including), but to fit into the THM programme, the carb meals need to be very lean. This seems to be the only way my body can tolerate carbs. They also have to be wholegrain. I need to be very careful with how much fruit I eat. Sourdough bread in moderation is fine..but regular old bread from the supermarket is a no go. I just turn into a puffer fish and get bad tummy issues. I guess everyone has different metabolisms/digestive systems. THM worked great for me about two years ago and really helped me to have a healthier gut, corrected my digestive issues and I lost weight. THM does include eating meat and I'm okay with that. I can regulate it myself. It's all about change...adapting...accepting :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsN8ElLiEum-RyACWlcfHhhj6bocJFd3RzlczIBsgjY7sq4aPsScPNujzu56ZZYKVFBilOSaCZximwlgtGp_cJlN7qi7dMFUnmPbTuy16l8kxw3UCH9sqHEOapHMi8G1dlJ9x3MWgKDi0/s1600/IMG_20200205_163615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsN8ElLiEum-RyACWlcfHhhj6bocJFd3RzlczIBsgjY7sq4aPsScPNujzu56ZZYKVFBilOSaCZximwlgtGp_cJlN7qi7dMFUnmPbTuy16l8kxw3UCH9sqHEOapHMi8G1dlJ9x3MWgKDi0/s400/IMG_20200205_163615.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ Carb free muffins I use as bread or hamburger buns ~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Made from egg whites and nut flours, oat fibre - not bran, etc)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oGR1CFt5PmeuUFgjJel1IIxMgnCjuvwWMHhbB2dBcHPvELZ-Tvqvh4r7-O7fl58r8QJukz_EFSJ1xrKEXBBOj5Or_0iUbWz6zd0DOhjiMNyjlA-qv7nWJt0byXIGkxY6piYtuiPLY2s/s1600/IMG_20200205_174127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oGR1CFt5PmeuUFgjJel1IIxMgnCjuvwWMHhbB2dBcHPvELZ-Tvqvh4r7-O7fl58r8QJukz_EFSJ1xrKEXBBOj5Or_0iUbWz6zd0DOhjiMNyjlA-qv7nWJt0byXIGkxY6piYtuiPLY2s/s400/IMG_20200205_174127.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ Here the bun is used ss a little burger, with chicken ~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2tpoJN8_llsNODNMLrqUL9ziEBCiydl6qtc1iiRzqhoYJQv7iFJG4IlaNBa53dVpQHxxnE93OVJQ5b7Xb12w-p5sgMv_LKRTBCC7pcYVAG-Z7kz0BNvasiciNK3NH93dXRjQiVhCGyA/s1600/IMG_20200216_161633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2tpoJN8_llsNODNMLrqUL9ziEBCiydl6qtc1iiRzqhoYJQv7iFJG4IlaNBa53dVpQHxxnE93OVJQ5b7Xb12w-p5sgMv_LKRTBCC7pcYVAG-Z7kz0BNvasiciNK3NH93dXRjQiVhCGyA/s400/IMG_20200216_161633.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ Homemade Almond Butter = delicious, nutritious and easy)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</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;">
EVERYDAY LIFE:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I caught up on some mending.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWqpgNIiYCVtIFmysUudib2rCVjkXgc_23NF91kU2cIT2DQnxQDCznrIrWH3_u7eGZ_RT_8zl3Oo2lCoGJaQJ1UJAP78iAweSHmxz1U9MabQVaIR9nf3icyHxOP5GFxncBMcGCpq7OWc/s1600/IMG_20200223_095540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWqpgNIiYCVtIFmysUudib2rCVjkXgc_23NF91kU2cIT2DQnxQDCznrIrWH3_u7eGZ_RT_8zl3Oo2lCoGJaQJ1UJAP78iAweSHmxz1U9MabQVaIR9nf3icyHxOP5GFxncBMcGCpq7OWc/s400/IMG_20200223_095540.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I rearranged, sorted and cleaned out the linen cupboard. It's an enormous space, with high shelves and things had just been getting stuffed high up in there for yonks. It had really become a dumping ground of sorts :(</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/AVvXsEiD6VBEHMjlPR1AH1Y_Oj-Boov4cSzyEDBmZFUGqbDi8nSuCVr2gVG9hzEuqZmwgE9geuf9An05ysxouFRuYD1-Nds1xPLmskKclc4tlRB-WiYM2qNrBAI8RkOsiJ5FJD7MUdn1qq1PDis/s1600/IMG_20200305_092832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6VBEHMjlPR1AH1Y_Oj-Boov4cSzyEDBmZFUGqbDi8nSuCVr2gVG9hzEuqZmwgE9geuf9An05ysxouFRuYD1-Nds1xPLmskKclc4tlRB-WiYM2qNrBAI8RkOsiJ5FJD7MUdn1qq1PDis/s400/IMG_20200305_092832.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">It took me 3.5 hours to go from this .... (above), then I took everything !!!! out and spread it around the floor and sorted through it. Some was getting thrown out, some was going to the second hand store and the rest was sorted and tidied.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4h7xaH-p4KbEBQixExd0oNidc7qcVDQ2FEhWnhw7R0t_ZUb6dhWlQVhmxYygklEJj5P2r9W5JvK207t6nQwdUPgQlgR6YjWzDluB0pGe-_nrXNjEaVbEmN3manCuzQktEswpFbEbhZj4/s1600/IMG_20200305_164253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4h7xaH-p4KbEBQixExd0oNidc7qcVDQ2FEhWnhw7R0t_ZUb6dhWlQVhmxYygklEJj5P2r9W5JvK207t6nQwdUPgQlgR6YjWzDluB0pGe-_nrXNjEaVbEmN3manCuzQktEswpFbEbhZj4/s400/IMG_20200305_164253.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fs3Md3XTI13bt40JnQz9Q6ED8ZqoBaHY4-Pv9lcVUeu97BEixfMC4FY5PzKTGoeh00cE85ionzPuGwj8moTy6Vfmpmy1Blftc5LTfeHKsWoTepnCAFBb3DlzEQA8KXZWe3s89YUYCpU/s1600/IMG_20200305_160039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fs3Md3XTI13bt40JnQz9Q6ED8ZqoBaHY4-Pv9lcVUeu97BEixfMC4FY5PzKTGoeh00cE85ionzPuGwj8moTy6Vfmpmy1Blftc5LTfeHKsWoTepnCAFBb3DlzEQA8KXZWe3s89YUYCpU/s400/IMG_20200305_160039.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now we have a lovely clean and well organised cupboard :) The next project is my pantry !!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's such a good feeling to tick something of my to-do list :) and to prioritize the time for these sort of projects. These sort of jobs have been on the back burner for a long time because I was too busy. full stop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nmpLfN9b_V7ZS6JHAW1TfxrZBzaotTgpe3HVAqzXms8ZqA-sKU_dthNFEw2xB5Kmw298IVNHMlRwMotG80NrhXa78B-MzPs5TsuqQgnUL1eA6CWVvtLyveCbJPfsXtTn88UdsmbFbw8/s1600/Martta+Wendelin%252C+Finnish+artist+1893-1986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="454" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nmpLfN9b_V7ZS6JHAW1TfxrZBzaotTgpe3HVAqzXms8ZqA-sKU_dthNFEw2xB5Kmw298IVNHMlRwMotG80NrhXa78B-MzPs5TsuqQgnUL1eA6CWVvtLyveCbJPfsXtTn88UdsmbFbw8/s640/Martta+Wendelin%252C+Finnish+artist+1893-1986.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
~ ~ ~<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAFcufJOwsG2vbKywnCFN7mtQiWueL5exUTyXkWJ_vGO1w-N3Qvd2pzStzJf9D5mUq4SuwM4WFo4Y9j4qIPYSkPGDjtoAa9Ak_oBEhf_5oXZ0ozvq1TNE5zk929z2F-iNCUsbP0uRodc/s1600/thumbnail_IMG_0358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAFcufJOwsG2vbKywnCFN7mtQiWueL5exUTyXkWJ_vGO1w-N3Qvd2pzStzJf9D5mUq4SuwM4WFo4Y9j4qIPYSkPGDjtoAa9Ak_oBEhf_5oXZ0ozvq1TNE5zk929z2F-iNCUsbP0uRodc/s640/thumbnail_IMG_0358.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;">
Well friends, I am going to close with this little pic of my sweet granddaughter Poppy and I. We have a lot of fun together in the kitchen. This picture pretty much sums up my heart and life focus. To bring glory to God through the work of my hands and love in my heart for my family first, friends and whoever else God might send my way. I purpose to leave a legacy of love, and whether or not I achieve that is best judged by those on the receiving end of my work/service. I was sharing with a sister at church on Sunday and she said she felt she hadn't been a good mother :( Oh how we beat ourselves up as woman. I don't know if this was the case or not, but what I do know is that God will meet us right where we are. He knows our hearts and he knows our sorrows. He knows when we are sorry for our failures and when we ask forgiveness. I believe His loving arms are there to embrace us before the words even leave our lips. His love is wider and deeper than we could ever know.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh to LOVE like that !</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be blessed dear friends. I pray this week you embrace His love ~ Linda xo</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/AVvXsEh9c5lOfmavFvf19uizoUcZTOWUsYdHTO7Bj7RGTOMa1zSqjg4Z6ikO-000iwj3OxOELqSXPBkfgXKFGT8E4fgvh7d6_N5jzRHJJCA547Mz-E8rGL7XcDQuSKgcMwC8CpHwtFGXePhz_o0/s1600/a053739d6d761b646f17458b032367b0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="410" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9c5lOfmavFvf19uizoUcZTOWUsYdHTO7Bj7RGTOMa1zSqjg4Z6ikO-000iwj3OxOELqSXPBkfgXKFGT8E4fgvh7d6_N5jzRHJJCA547Mz-E8rGL7XcDQuSKgcMwC8CpHwtFGXePhz_o0/s400/a053739d6d761b646f17458b032367b0.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ O ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16089908106331409725noreply@blogger.com2