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Tea Newsletter ~ July 2009

Hello, everybody. I hope the beginning of summer finds you all well and happy. I am including an extra special in this month's newsletter to celebrate the warmer weather! If you know of anyone who might be interested, please send them this link and have them reply to this post.

Thank you,

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant
kitty.letsdotea.org
================================

Tea Trivia
Tea should be stored in airtight containers, away from sunlight and moisture.

Let's Do Tea monthly specials:
For July 2009, if you host a party, you receive 15% merchandise credit, and one of the following: a free tin of tea (any tea $10.95 and under), a box of any size Tea Sacs, an Empress tea strainer, or the Stripes Tea for Me set (While Supplies Last)!

MY EXTRA SPECIAL: Book a party now for July or August and receive an EXTRA free tin of tea!

There is also a Customer Special for June: Tiffany Rose and Lovers Three Artisan Teas ~Only $5 ea. Email me for more information.

Summer Seasonals (available until September 30):

#2504 Indian Summer:
Black Tea, Chocolate, Cloves, Cinnamon,
Saffron, Safflowers, Cilantro, Corn Bits, and
Natural Flavors.

#2505 Mojito:
Black Tea, Rooibos, Coconut, Pineapple,
Spearmint Lemon Bits, Rum Flavor, and
Natural Flavors.

#2506 Apricot Vanilla:
Apricot, Rosehips, Apple, Rose Petals,
Vanilla, and Natural Flavors.

Teas are $10.95 each or 28.95 for the Trio.
Trio includes one of each seasonal tea.
Trio #2507 Available July 1st - Sept. 30th

Recipe (you can send me your favorites to be published in future issues!)

Sunmer Fruits in White Chocolate-Lime Sauce

12 oz. white chocolate, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
2 cups heavy (double) cream
2 tsp. grated lime zest or 1 tsp. lime oil
4 cups (1 lb.) sliced assorted ripe summer fruits such as apricots. nectarines and peaches (1/2 inch slices)
2 cups assorted berries such as raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, gooseberries and strawberries
curls of lime zest or fresh mint sprigs for garnish

Note: Use only the finest white chocolate and sweet ripe fruits. The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead, covered and refrigerated. Soften it in a microwave oven or in the top pan of a double boiler or a heatproof bowl placed over (not touching) barely simmering water.

Place the white chocolate in a food processor fitted with the metal blade or in a blender. Pour the cream into a small saucepan and place over medium heat. When tiny bubbles begin to appear around the edge of the pan, remove from heat and pour the cream over the chocolate. Process until smooth. Add the lime zest or lime oil and process for a few seconds longer. Let cool to room temperature. The sauce should have the consistency of very thick cream.

Arrange the fruit on a rimmed serving plate or in a bowl. Pour the cooled sauce over the fruit and garnish with lime zest curls or fresh mint.
Yield: 6 - 8 servings


Tea Party ideas
How about hosting an "Iced Tea party" for the 4th of July? Many of LDT's teas are especially good iced. One of my favorites iced is Passion Flare Fruit Tea. The evenings are warmer now, so an outdoor after-dinner tea party would be great! Decorate your porch with tiny white (or red whit & blue) Christmas lights and invite your friends over for a tea party.

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If you have any questions regarding Let's Do Tea, hosting a tea party or a catalog party, ordering teas without having a party, or becoming a consultant, please feel free to contact me.

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant

If you aren't already, but would like to be on my mailing list, please contact me by responding to this post.

Tea Newsletter for June 2009

Hello, everybody. I apologize for not sending out a newsletter for May. I will make it up by including an extra special in this month's newsletter! If you know of anyone who might be interested, please send them a link to this post.

Thank you,

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant
kitty.letsdotea.org
================================

Tea Trivia
In 19th century Britain, tea was a valuable commodity and was stored in locked tea caddies for which only the woman of the household held the key.

Let's Do Tea monthly specials:
For June, 2009, if you host a party, you receive 15% merchandise credit, and one of the following: a free tin of tea (any tea $10.95 and under), a box of any size Tea Sacs, an Empress tea strainer, or the Stripes Tea for Me set!

MY EXTRA SPECIAL: Book a party now for June, July or August and receive an EXTRA free tin of tea when your party order is delivered!

There is also a Customer Special for June: Tiffany Rose and Lovers Three Artisan Teas ~Only $5ea. Email me for more information.

Seasonal Teas (available until June 30):

#2501 Enchanted Berry:
Green Tea, Raspberry Bits, Blueberry Bits,
Rose Petals, Malva Flowers and
Flavourings.

#2502 Easter Bunny:
Black Tea, Rooibos, Caramel, Almond,
Chocolate an Easter Candies.

#2503 Lemon Souffle:
Green Rooibos, Rooibos, Honeybush,
Lemon Bits, Calendula Petals and
Flavourings.

Teas are $10.95 each or 28.95 for the Trio.
Trio includes one tin of each seasonal tea.
Trio #2504 Available April 1st - June 30th

Recipe (you can send me your favorites to be published in future issues!)

Orange-Strawberry Shortcake

2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 Cup sugar
1 1/2 Tbsp Triple Sec or other orange-flavored liqueur) or orange juice
2 Cups biscuit mix
2/3 Cups milk
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 Cups whipping cream
1/2 Cup sifted powdered sugar
1/4 Cup sour cream

Combine first 4 ingredients , stirring until sugar dissolves. Cover and chill 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F
Combine biscuit mix and next 3 ingredients; stir with a fork just until dry ingredients are moistened. Turn out onto a floured surface and kneed 4 or 5 times. Place dough on a lightly greased baking sheet and press into a 7- x 1/4-inch round.
Bake at 425 for 15 minutes or until done. Carefully remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack.
Beat whipping cream at medium speed of an electric mixer until foamy; gradually add powdered sugar, beating until soft peaks form. Add sour cream, and beat until stiff peaks form.
Split biscuit round in half horizontally. Place bottom half on a serving plate.
Drain fruit, reserving 2 Tbsp. liquid. Spoon 2/3 of fruit mixture on bottom round; drizzle with reserved liquid. Spoon half of whipped cream mixture over fruit. Add top biscuit round. Top with remaining fruit and whipped cream.
Yield: 8 servings


Tea Party ideas
Summer is upon us! How about hosting an "Iced Tea party" in your back yard? Many of LDT's teas are especially good iced.

-----------------------------------------------

If you have any questions regarding Let's Do Tea, hosting a tea party or a catalog party, ordering teas without having a party, or becoming a consultant, please feel free to contact me by commenting on this post.

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant

If you aren't already, but would like to be on my mailing list, please contact me by commenting on this post and let me know. If you are on it already, but would like to be removed, let me know as well, so I don't end up annoying anyone accidentally.

Simple Woman's Daybook ~ June 3, 2009

For Today...

Outside my window... windy, foggy, dark, rainy & cold

I am thinking... how blessed I am to have such good children. I love each one of them so much.

I am thankful for... spring rains (almost every day)!

From the kitchen... something with ground beef and red potatoes...

I am wearing... jeans, pink striped shirt, pony tail.

I am reading...whatever i can find about BSA and AHG

I am hoping... to get a lot cleaned up today so the house feels fresher. We've been cooped up with cold and rain outside.

I am creating... clean, empty spaces, hopefully

I am praying... for my husband and his employees.

Around the house... SPRING CLEANING! Laundry, sorting through papers, working on budget, kids are building lego creations.

One of my favorite things... not being sick

A few plans for the rest of the week... working at Dad's garden on Thursday, getting well.


Visit the original Simple Woman at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook~May 21st Edition

For Today...

Outside my window... lush green, damp & foggy

I am thinking... how blessed we are to live way out in the country

From the learning rooms... counting down the days till the last day of school!

I am thankful for... spring rains!

From the kitchen... roasting chicken for tonight, fresh home made bread.

I am wearing... long black skirt, striped Polo, pony tail.

I am reading... nothing right now. Just trying to finish school!

I am hoping... to get to those letters that I am so far behind in answering

I am creating... a good vegetable and herb garden.

I am praying... for priests

Around the house... making zoo trip and Scottish Parade plans

One of my favorite things... when the girls and I paint our toenails together

A few plans for the rest of the week... getting the lettuce , carrots, beets and turnips planted, setting up the drip system, and Mass tomorrow.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Sigh. Still can;t get pictures off the camera.

Visit the original Simple Woman at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook ~ May 5, 2009

FOR TODAY May 5, 2009...

Outside my window... Partly cloudy and breezy. The kids are transplanting some catnip they got from Nana's garden.

I am thinking... about the books and items I need to order for next year's school and the kitchen.

I am thankful for... for the gift of forgiveness.

From the learning rooms...finishing up school - only 4 weeks to go!

From the kitchen... have a beef roast in the crock pot. Need to make bread.

I am wearing... light blue cropped pants, blue sweater with hearts woven in.

I am creating... mini- greenhouses over my raised garden beds with my husband.

I am going... outside to plant seeds in egg shells with the kids.

I am reading... Kitchen Garden by Cathy Wilkinson Barash.

I am hoping... to have some tea parties soon.

I am hearing... "Oh What a Beautiful Mornin'" playing on the stereo.

Around the house... laundry waiting in the dryer (I can't wait to get my clothesline up again), Maria taking a nap, kids eating apples outside.

One of my favorite things... Ian coming home after work!

A few plans for the rest of the week: finish up the week's school, build a bed for the strawberries and plant them!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... I am sorry to say that my camera and computer still aren't on speaking terms.

See the original Simple Woman's Daybook here and read other entries: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook ~ April 22, 2009

FOR TODAY April 22, 2009...

Outside my window... Sunny and warm. Had a blizzard the other day with lots of heavy snow, but today is 70 degrees and perfect for being outside, despite a little mud.

I am thinking... about all the little things I need to do - I guess I better write it all down before i forget something important!

I am thankful for... sunshine and snow, and a place to make a garden.

From the learning rooms...back to school after Easter break!

From the kitchen... made whole wheat bread today. making Oriental chicken and mandarin orange salad for dinner.

I am wearing... khaki pants and red t-shirt.

I am creating... a kitchen garden in my mind.

I am going... to plant seeds in egg shells with the kids tomorrow.

I am reading... Kitchen Garden by Cathy Wilkinson Barash.

I am hoping... to have some tea parties soon.

I am hearing... kids popping bubble wrap when they are supposed to be cleaning up and getting in the tub...

Around the house... some dirt in the mudroom from the kids playing outside.

One of my favorite things... Ian coming home after work!

A few plans for the rest of the week: finish up the week's school and finish planning the garden. Help Dad start the garden at his house.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... I am sorry to say that my camera and computer aren't on speaking terms, so I will describe the adorable snowmen the kids made the other day after the blizzard. There was a Daddy, a Mommy, two kids and Mommy holding a baby. Daddy's arms were made of a long stick pushed through his shoulder area, and he wore mittens and a baseball cap. Mommy wore a scarf as a baby sling and a sun hat. The kids wore little hats to help keep the sun off. The melted anyway. Today there is no trace of them except for the stick from Daddy's arms.

See the original Simple Woman's Daybook here and read other entries: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Tea For Today

Today: Sunday, April 19, 2009 Divine Mercy Sunday
Outside My Window: sunny! The kids are making snowmen with the wet heavy snow we got yesterday.
Today's Goal: make bread and soup for dinner.
Today's Plan: Dark laundry, REALLY finish putting away all clothes from our trip.
Today's Tea: English Breakfast. This is a classic black tea.
Today's Tidbits: We are starting in FlyLady's Zone 4 (Master Bedroom & Bath). I stripped the bed to wash the sheets, and I am decluttering the trash that I have accumulated by my desk.

Tea For Today

Today: Saturday, April18, 2009
Outside My Window: BLIZZARD! it has been snowing all night and all day. We'll see how much is actually on the ground when the wind stops!
Today's Goal: Get everything from our trip unpacked and put away; sort laundry.
Today's Plan: Make menus for next week and a shopping list.
Today's Tea: Mexican Winter - it is so warming with its pepper berries.
Today's Tidbits: Today is the last day we are in FlyLady's Zone 3 (Main Bathroom plus One Other Room). Since we cleaned the bath room before we left on our trip, it is in good shape. The back room is also in good shape, so maybe just a once over on the counters and vacuuming the floor is in order.

Pantry Basics, Part 4

Mary Kochan has finished her four-part series on how to make and use a pantry in your home. This 4th part talks about saving money by copying favorite pre-packaged and restaurant foods using your own fresh ingredients. Much of the time it only takes a little more time to make a meal from scratch, and you are less likely to waste food if you put out the effort to make it yourself.

Mary mentions that as you build up your pantry and don't have to go to the store more than every couple of weeks, you will notice that you miss fresh fruits and vegetables. This is when growing a garden comes in handy, as well as frequenting farmers' markets and other local produce growers. Maybe you can trade a neighbor part of your chard harvest for part of her zuchini overflow. You will become creative in your cooking when you find yourself holding a huge bag of fresh spinach leaves!

The most important outcome of learning how to keep a pantry is the sense of gratitude you can cultivate. After all, everything ultimately comes from God, doesn't it?

Tea for Today

Today: Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Outside My Window: sunny!
Today's Goal: Get everything packed into the van for our trip.
Today's Plan: Pack the dry goods into the kids' lunch boxes, make sandwich packs to put into the cooler in the morning, finish the last load of laundry, and clean up the kitchen.
Today's Tea: 8 Treasures Green Tea.
Today's Tidbits: We are in FlyLady's Zone 2 (Kitchen). The kids are helping me by putting clean dishes away and sweeping while I finish up the dirty dishes, clear and wipe the counters, and mop the floor.

Pantry Basics, Part 3

In this article, Mary Kochan explains how to incorporate your freezer into the pantry system. Mary's system will help you stock up and save money by not having to go shopping as often as you do now. My Mother-In-Law has an upright freezer in her garage which she uses in this way, and her system works well.

At this point, our family is able to go shopping once a week. I do have some non-perishables stored and we could probably survive in our house for a month or so, if we lost power and were snowed in, as long as I start storing water. Mary says I can store enough to only have to go shopping once every 3 to six months and beyond! I am intrigued by this concept and will try it.

Right now we have our kitchen refrigerator and a medium-sized chest freezer. In a few weeks we will be receiving another, larger chest freezer. I am hoping that this summer we can grow a lot of food and freeze or dry the bulk of it. I would love to be able to go "shopping" in my own pantry all winter, and maybe save up for an upright freezer to replace the chest freezers eventually.

The fourth and final part to Mary's pantry article will be coming out next week. I will be out of town until the end of the week, so I won't blog about it until I get back. You can read the article when it comes out at Today's Catholic Woman.

A Family in Need

There is a beautiful family here in Colorado Spring who have given much of their time, talents and treasure to helping men and women choose life. They are Mike and Michele Mason, and they were instrumental in bringing 40 Days for Life to our city time and time again.

A few days ago, they welcomed their 9th child from God! Unfortunately, Mike was recently laid off from his job and after the baby was born, Michelle suffered a stroke. Families in the Colorado Springs area have stepped up to the plate and are providing meals for the Masons in their time of need. There is also a web site set up for receiving monetary donations to help see them through. If you are interested in giving part of your tithe to this wonderful family, click here.

Tea for Today

Today: Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Outside My Window: cold and snowy. More to come tonight!
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water.
Today's Plan: Order extra Irish Dance socks for the girls.
Today's Tea: How about a pot of After 7 Rooibos? Yummy chocolate & mint flavors! We are sipping it this afternoon after all school is done, while watching a movie from the library.
Today's Tidbits: We are in FlyLady's Zone 1 (Entrnce, Front Porch and Dining Room). The kids are helping me by doing the dusting and cleaning the fronts of the washer and dryer. I wonder if painting them would be a good idea to freshen them up a bit (the washer and dryer, not the kids). Does anyone have any ideas?

Mutant Teletubbies

Rachel over at Testosterhome has posted these hilarious yet disturbing pictures of something she might get for her boys. I can only hope she is joking.

Pantry Basics, Part 2

Here is part two of the article I posted about a few days ago.

This time Mary has gone into detail about how to organize a pantry, including creating inventory lists that your household’s shoppers can work from and how to establish minimum and maximum quantities. Sounds like something I can use. How about you? Enjoy!

Tea for Today

Today: Saturday, March 28, 2009
Outside My Window: cold and sunny. We got some snow so it is all a nice, crisp white in the sunshine.
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water.
Today's Plan: Clear the top of my writing desk.
Today's Tea: In honor of the snow, we had a pot of Sweet Christmas rooibos with breakfast.
Today's Tidbits: We are on track with FlyLady's Zone 4 (Master bedroom) cleaning schedule. The kids finished their school work for the week, so they can pick out a movie to watch today.

Praying for Others

Do you have any triggers that remind you to pray for others?

This topic came up on an email list when one friend said she writes the names of people who have asked for prayers on the packets of injections she has to take every 12 hours. She offers up prayers and the discomfort for that person as she injects herself. Another friend offers up her migraines for people on her prayer list.

Another friend prays for the people in cars going by as she waits at a red light and for the passengers in airplanes that fly by overhead. I know many people who pray for the victims and the doctors when they hear an ambulance's siren.

My Mother-In-Law prays for the person who gave her a gift whenever she sees or uses that gift.

I pray for my parents and siblings whenever the clock says 6:19 or 9:16, as these numbers showed up in various addresses we had while I was growing up. I pray for my children when the clock says 1:23 or 12:34: It reminds me of our home school (learning to count).

What reminds YOU to pray for others?

Pantry Basics

Over at Catholic Exchange, Mary Kochan has posted an article on the practicality of having a pantry. Not the small closet in the kitchen we modern women think of - the one with cereal and mac-n-cheese for this week's meals on its shelves. No - a real pantry like our mothers or grandmothers had - its shelves lined with jars of applesauce, green beans and beets she canned - and maybe grew - herself, the goods meant to last throughout the winter and spring until the next harvest.

This is an intriguing concept, one I hope to see revived in today's homes. Mary's article is the first of four, and I am eagerly awaiting the next one. I hope it will have some practical advice about how to start and maintain my own pantry.

Pretty Aprons!!!

I like wearing an apron as I go about my daily duties, but I never thought of an apron as a fashion accessory or as a figure-flattering fashion statement. Until now.

These are just the cutest kitchen gadgets I have ever seen!HeavenlyHostess.com has this same apron in many different prints, and they are all beautiful. Some have matching pot holders, kitchen towels and headbands for sale as well. Some, such as the one above, are available in a matching child size!

This one might make Spring Cleaning something to look forward to:
It is hard to choose, but this one is one of my favorites (bottom picture shows the reverse of the apron). All of the aprons are reversible:With such a pretty apron on, one might consider having one's hair done and wearing heels to vacuum the carpet! Well, maybe not heels, but cute shoes and lipstick are a must!

If they had one in a tea cup and tea pot print I would seriously save my pennies to get one!

April 2009 Tea Newsletter and contest

Hello everyone,

Here is your tea newsletter for April, 2009. If you know of anyone who might be interested, please send them a link and ask them to respond to me directly to be added to my mailing list.

SPECIAL CONTEST FOR MARCH 24 THROUGH APRIL 30: If you are not currently on my email newsletter list, you can sign up now and be entered in a drawing for one free tin of tea of your choice! This is for first-time subscribers only, please.

Thank you,

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant
kitty.letsdotea.org

719-232-5894
rutherfordfamily@msn.com
================================

Tea Trivia
Afternoon tea was invented by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford (1783-1857), one of Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting. In her day, the upper crust ate a huge breakfast, little lunch, and a very late dinner. Every afternoon, the duchess experienced a "sinking feeling." One afternoon she instructed her servants to serve tea and little cakes in her boudoir. The experience was so delightful that Anna repeated it every afternoon thereafter.

Let's Do Tea monthly specials:
For April, 2009, if you host a party, you receive 15% merchandise credit, and one of the following: a free tin of tea (any tea $10.95 and under), a box of any size Tea Sacs, an Empress tea strainer, or a tin of Cinnamon Stick or Fresh Peach White Tea! There is also a Customer Special for April: You can order the Dreamer Collection - teapots and accessories in pretty pastels. All Pieces and Colors will be on sale April 1. *While supplies last* Go to kitty.letsdotea.org for prices. Contact me if you need help.

New Seasonal Teas:

#2501 Enchanted Berry:
Green Tea, Raspberry Bits, Blueberry Bits,
Rose Petals, Malva Flowers and
Flavourings.

#2502 Easter Bunny:
Black Tea, Rooibos, Caramel, Almond,
Chocolate and Easter Candies.

#2503 Lemon Souffle:
Green Rooibos, Rooibos, Honeybush,
Lemon Bits, Calendula Petals and
Flavourings.

Teas are $10.95 each or 28.95 for the Trio.
Trio includes one tin of each seasonal tea.
Trio #2504 Available April 1st - June 30th

Recipe (you can send me your favorites to be published in future issues!)

Rosemary Sweet Bread

1 Cup milk
1/2 Cup golden raisins
1/4 Cup applesauce
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 large eggs
2/3 Cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp. sugar
Garnish: rosemary sprigs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine first 4 ingredients in a small saucepan; Bring to simmer over medium heat(Do Not Boil!). Remove from heat; cover and set aside.
Beat eggs at medium speed of an electric mixer until foamy. Add 2/3 Cup sugar and butter, beating well.
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; add to egg mixture, beating until smooth.
Add milk mixture; beat until smooth. (Batter will be thin)
Pour batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp. sugar.
Bake for 35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool in pan on a wire rack 10 minutes.
Remove from pan, and let cool completely on wire rack.
Garnish, if desired, with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Yield: 6 servings.


Tea Party ideas
Easter is nearly here already! Enjoy the warmer weather with a tea party on the patio. Serve Rosemary Sweet Bread with your favorite tea.

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If you have any questions regarding Let's Do Tea, hosting a tea party or a catalog party, ordering teas without having a party, or becoming a consultant, please feel free to contact me via email or phone.

Paula Rutherford
Independent Tea Consultant
719-232-5894
rutherfordfamily@msn.com

If you aren't already, but would like to be on my mailing list, please contact me via email and let me know. If you are on it already, but would like to be removed, let me know as well, so I don't end up annoying anyone accidentally.

Tea For Today

Today: Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Outside My Window: cool and cloudy. It looked like ait was going ot be a nice, sunny day, but the clouds rolled in and it is getting colder by the minute!
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water
Today's Plan: Clean the main bath room and laundry/mud room.
Today's Tea: I had Apricot Peach Black with milk and Ian had my favorite Chocolate Cherry Black with milk and sugar. I wish the company had not discontinued Chocolate Cherry!
Today's Tidbits: We are on track with FlyLady's Zone 3 (bathroom and one other room) cleaning schedule. The girls finished their St. Patrick's Day Madness marathon late last night, so I let them sleep in today before starting their chores.

Irish Dancing Season

Last night we took our kids to an Irish Dancing recital in which our three oldest daughters participated. I went backstage with the girls to make sure they got to the right place and didn't lose their costume parts while Ian kept the littler kids in the foyer waiting to be let into the auditorium. We had to be there an hour and 15 minutes before the show started, so the littles got a little restless. Thankfully we were allowed to go into a hallway next to the foyer where the kids could run around a bit.

We were able to sit in the third row, behind 2 taped-off rows, so we were able to get a good view of the dancers.

The show was incredible. It lasted two hours and many of the dancers did not have a break between numbers. This was the first such show our girls have ever been in, and they were pretty tired by the time the it was over.

This show was enough to make us all want to sleep for the whole weekend, but GUESS WHAT!!!! The show was just the beginning! Today we have a parade to be in (the girls, not me), and two shows afterward (one in a different town).

BUT THAT'S NOT ALL! I am very glad we don't have any shows on Sunday, but Monday at 7:45 AM begins a grueling day. The girls have 3 performances back-to-back at three elementary schools, followed by an hour-long drive to another town for another show, after which we will eat dinner out and come back home and fall into bed. I hope we make it.

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! On Tuesday the girls have two more performances, to which their Grandfather will take them. They said (at the dance school) when we started there in the fall, that St. Patrick's day and the days surrounding it were big, but we had no idea.

Simple Woman's Daybook ~ March 10, 2009

The Simple Woman's Daybook~March 10th Entry

For Today...

Outside my window... snow! I had no idea it was going to snow last night.

I am thinking... it is a perfect day to read to the kids.

From the learning rooms... learning about soil and seeds.

I am thankful for...a clean, comfortable home

From the kitchen...BREAD!!! Smells heavenly. Made it from freshly-ground whole wheat!

I am wearing... jeans, black top & black sweater.

I am reading...housefairy.org

I am hoping... to fix the clothesline outside - the gas bill has been too high the last couple of months.

I am creating... tea bags and decorating tea tins for the Open House in a couple of weeks.

I am hearing... the dish washer, clothes dryer, and someone playing with a toy truck

Around the house...friends coming up the drive for a playdate.

One of my favorite things... a cup of tea on a cold, snowy day

A few plans for the rest of the week... dentist, dance class, date night

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Tea For Today 3/06/09

Today: Friday, March 6, 2009
Outside My Window: brilliantly sunny, windy
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water
Today's Plan: School; make menus and shopping lists for Monday.
Today's Tea: Key Lime Black tea. Delicious with cream.
Today's Tidbits: The forecast calls for snow in within the next week, so we'll play outside as much as possible before it gets yucky.

Tea For Today 3/04/09

Today: Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Outside My Window: sunny, windy
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water
Today's Plan: School; install the new side view mirror on the van; take the kids for a play date and dinner at Debbie's house.
Today's Tea: Cinnamon Delight Rooibos. This is so good hot or iced! It's one of my favorites for hot summer days.
Today's Tidbits: The Master bedroom is starting to look nice again - I moved my writing desk against a different wall and Ian hung a fabric wall pocket I made on the wall above it so I can keep clutter off the desk. I can now reach the curtains to open and close them.

Simple Woman's Daybook ~ March 3, 2009

For Today...

Outside my window... clouds and wind

I am thinking... how nice the weather was yesterday! It was about 75 in town!

From the learning rooms...starting week 24! Only 12 weeks left! Andrew needs more help with reading. He forgets what letters sound like from one word to the next.

I am thankful for... sunshine, helpful kids, and a semi-clean house

From the kitchen... made bread this morning! House smells wonderful.

I am wearing... Jeans, navy tank top and berry-colored "big shirt"

I am reading... Bosch owner's manual - what a great machine (Thanks Mom)!!!

I am hoping... to spend some time outside today, maybe dig some holes for the hawthorns we'll plant next weekend.

I am creating... daily routines to keep the house tidy and everyone happy.

I am hearing... kids playing with Peter's new "Moon Sand" toy he got for his birthday.

Around the house... still some things out of place (folded laundry in the living room, dirty dishes in the sink), but getting closer to clean.

One of my favorite things... 8 kids playing harmoniously.

A few plans for the rest of the week... sew some more on the Christmas projects, sew girls' patches on their dance uniforms, and re-lace their dancing shoes with elastic.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

I love my Bosch!!

Please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman

Tea For Today 3/03/09

Today: Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Outside My Window: Partly cloudy, windy
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water; pray the Rosary
Today's Plan: School; make bread, sweep front step; MAYBE install the new side view mirror on the van.
Today's Tea: Apple Spice Black tea: this is a Seasonal Special, only available until March 31. I an enjoying it with cream. YUMMY!
Today's Tidbits: I am re-subscribed to Flylady.net, so I have started cleaning my house's "zones" again. This week is the entrance and mud room.

Tea For Today 2/27/09

Today:Friday, February 27, 2009
Outside My Window: Partly cloudy, a little windy, but warmer than yesterday I think.
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water; pray the Rosary
Today's Plan: School; Take anything out of the Master bedroom that does not belong there; Stations of the Cross tonight.
Today's Tea: Nut Crunch Rooibos tea: this is one of my favorites. Nutty aroma and taste - hazelnuts! and no caffeine.
Today's Tidbits: First Friday in Lent. I am going to redo my daily schedule so that I can actually follow it. My old one got too cluttered, so I stopped following it.

Tea For Today 2/26/09

Today: Thursday, February 26, 2009
Outside My Window: Sunny
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water; pray the Rosary
Today's Plan: School; Clean kitchen
Today's Tea: Peach Apricot Black tea, hot with a little sugar.
Today's Tidbits: Major decluttering needed. I will actually put it on the calendar so I remember to do it little by little. Maybe it's time to start doing Flylady.net again.

Tea for Today

I thought I would do a little daily (or as often as I can) post about the teas I enjoy drinking and selling. I want to share with you what teas I like best and why, along with little interesting tidbits about what is going on here at Windyside (that is what I have named our house, since there is an almost constant wind blowing day and night).

Today: Ash Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Outside My Window: Cold and windy
Today's Goal: Exercise and drink more water, pray the Rosary, start Lent off right
Today's Plan: School week 23; Mass tonight
Today's Tea: Spiced Pear Black tea. I am sipping it hot and plain, but I also like it with a little sugar or cream, and it is really good iced with sugar, too. This is a nice, warming tea since it has ginger in it.
Today's Tidbits: I am wondering how to block the wind so that we can grow a wider variety of vegetables and flowers in our garden this year.

I plan on posting my monthly Tea Newsletter too, so watch for that.

The Simple Woman's Daybook~February 23rd Edition

The Simple Woman's Daybook~February 23rd Edition

For Today...

Outside my window... bright sunshine!

I am thinking... how much I really want to plant some flowering shrubs right now!!

From the learning rooms...starting week 23! Only 13 weeks left!

I am thankful for... the beauty of the changing seasons

From the kitchen... we have frozen meat and dry rice and beans: PLENTY ...thank you Lord!

I am wearing... Jeans and my comfy gray shirt. Not much variety in my "post-pregnancy" wardrobe.

I am reading... the latest issue of Victoria magazine (lots of pretty spring decorating ideas) and the American Heritage Girls handbook.

I am hoping... we get some rain

I am creating... extra shelf space for my record-keeping notebooks for AHG, family budget and garden plans

I am hearing... kids in various activities from commenting on a math problem to setting the table to singing "If I were a Rich Man" from Fiddler on the Roof.

Around the house... a bit of laundry, dinner, and then some handsewing

One of my favorite things... is sunshine streaming through clean windows onto dust-free furniture. Someday it'll be a reality! For now, I am enjoying the sunshine.

A few plans for the rest of the week... Ash Wednesday Mass, maybe a play date and/or Bible study on Friday, and the kids' birthday party on Sunday.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Andrew holding his new baby brother Thomas

The Simple Woman's Daybook~February 9th Edition

Monday, February 9, 2009

The Simple Woman's Daybook~February 9th Edition

For Today...

Outside my window...windy and cold

I am thinking... how sad it is that we have yet to have a nice snow...sigh

From the learning rooms... gearing up for a new week of school

I am thankful for... Ian's patience with me as I break one more thing on the van.

From the kitchen... thinking of a special dinner for my Sweetie for St. Valentine's Day.

I am wearing... khaki pants and red turtleneck

I am reading... the calendar of Cub Scouts meetings and events for the rest of the semester.

I am hoping... for good weather on Saturday for Thomas's baptism!

I am creating... Valentines for my loved ones

I am hearing... the kids "cleaning up" before bed.

Around the house... lots of boxes and trash in the mudroom waiting to go out - we've been cleaning out the "back room"

One of my favorite things... my newborn baby boy sleeping in my arms, cooing softly

A few plans for the rest of the week... exercise for 10 minutes every day this week - I need to get serious about this!

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Visit the Simple Woman's Daybook at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

DIY: Herbal Insect Repellant

I found this article in a Babyfit's Natural Mother e-newsletter. I haven't tried it, but it looks pretty easy.

Besides driving your cat crazy, catnip has another more practical (but less entertaining) use. It also drives away the mosquitoes. According to a study at Iowa State University Department of Entomology, an essential oil found in catnip is 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than potent chemicals such as DEET. If you grow catnip in your yard, you'll get moderate protection from the pests, but for greater benefit, you can try making your own skin potion from your fall harvest. Here's how to make your own herbal insect repellant:

What you'll need:
2 cups catnip, stemmed
1 cup dried peppermint
1 cup rosemary, cut into 6-inch sprigs
2 cups grape seed oil or almond oil

Directions:
Place herbs on a cutting board or counter, and lightly crush them with a rolling pin. Place them into a clean glass jar with a screw-on lid. Pour in the oil, seal the jar and place in a cool, dark cupboard for two weeks. Lightly shake the jar once a day for two weeks. Strain into a clean jar, seal and refrigerate (it will keep for up to 8 months). To use, rub on exposed skin.

QUICK TIP :
Check your local nursery for catnip plants, or simply order seeds online.

Just a Spoonful of Sugar... home remedies

WEIRD HEALTH TIPS THAT WORK!

These tips were found in a Woman's World Magazine, Dec.
22, 2008. I especially like the one to quiet coughs!

*Quiet coughs with chocolate. The main ingredient in chocolate –
theobromine – is more effective at stopping a cough than prescription
medicine. Dark chocolate is especially effective. Dissolve a piece of
Dove dark chocolate or 2 dark Hershey kisses in your mouth and
coughing will stop for up to 4 hours. This is 33% more effective than
cough medicine containing codeine. It works by suppressing the vagus
nerve, which is responsible for causing you to cough. So the next time
you or someone you love gets a persistent cough, offer them a
chocolate bar instead of cough syrup. (consider carrying Dove dark chocolate
squares in my purse all the time, just in case, for medicinal purposes.)

*Cure hiccups with sugar. Next time you can't get rid of hiccups, put
a teaspoon of white granulated sugar on your tongue and let it
dissolve. "The granules irritate the phrenic nerve, which is
responsible for the hiccupping reflex, and cause the diaphragm to
immediately stop spasming," says Joe Graeden, M.S.

*Ease a sore throat with pineapple. Instead of reaching for a sore
throat drop, have a piece of FRESH pineapple instead. It's loaded with
bromelain, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that reduce
pain and swelling. It also has lots of Vitamin C, which speeds
healing. Bromelain is deactivated by heat, so use only fresh
pineapple. Keep nibbling until you feel better.

*Burn yourself in the kitchen or on a hot glue gun? Cover the burn
with honey. Honey is more effective at healing burns than gauzes,
dressings and other treatments doctors use. It has antibiotic
properties that kill germs, and enzymes that help remove dead tissue,
making it easier for healthy tissues to grow. Of course, having an
aloe vera plant close by also works. Just remove a piece and squeeze
the juice on your burn.

Disclaimer: People have tried these and they work. However, as with all
medical advice, consult your doctor and follow his recommendations for
serious illnesses.

Simple Woman's Daybook - Feb. 2, 2009

FOR TODAY Monday, February 2, 2009...

Outside my window... Cold, bright sunshine. We put a bag of ice outside the front door to make room in the freezer a few days ago, and it has not melted!

I am thinking... that generosity is truly from God.

I am thankful for... all of our friends who have gone out of their way to make meals and give us gifts for our new little one!

From the learning rooms... medical school 101: how to run a home amidst childbirth, other children with fevers and coughs, and aches and pains.

From the kitchen... Wonderful meals from friends! Baked Potato Soup from Jennifer, Beef Stroganoff from Juli, REAL Black Forest Cake from Susi, Breakfast casserole from Karen,salads, pastas and pot roasts from everyone else, and all kinds of breads and desserts. We are truly blessed!

I am wearing... jeans and a red sweater, my hair pushed back with a head band, white socks and slippers, and my baby boy in a Snugglewrap.

I am creating... Thank you notes for all the great meals and gifts.

I am going... nowhere today - hopefully it won't be too cold to take the baby to church on Sunday.

I am reading... Semi-Homemade Magazine's premier issue. It looks like it will be a fun magazine!

I am hoping... the temps rise a little so we can go out!!

I am hearing... kids playing in the boys' room, the dryer humming.

Around the house... Eldest daughter in bed with a fever, next daughter with a possible ear infection, the rest having fun with Lego and little cars.

One of my favorite things... The feel of soft, newborn baby skin.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Midwife appointment, redo budget AGAIN to accommodate rising gas and electric costs.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
The kids made paper dolls of themselves and posed them on the couch. This was a day or two before Thomas was born.

Visit the Simple Woman's Daybook blog here to join in the fun: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook, New Baby Edition (Jan 27, 2009)

FOR TODAY, Tuesday, January 27, 2009...

Outside my window... snow-covered prairie grasses and brilliant sunshine

I am thinking... That I have the most adorable baby boy lying next to me right now.

I am thankful for... Thomas Edmund Paul's birth Sunday night.

From the learning rooms... no school today. Just witnessing God's miracle with all the kids.

From the kitchen... Daddy & the kids made waffles and oatmeal this morning, and quesadillas for lunch. Mom made delicious chicken vegetable soup yesterday for lunch. It really hit the spot.

I am wearing... comfy pajama bottoms and a tomato-soup-colored v-neck top. Hair in a pony tail, socks & slippers.

I am creating... memories holding my little Thomas while he is little enough to be held.

I am going... to recover as quickly as I can!

I am reading... Nothing right now except the sweet expressions on Thomas's face.

I am hoping... We all get a little more sleep tonight.

I am hearing... coos from Thomas, computer typing from Ian (working from home today), a few sounds of quiet play from the older kids during the little kids' nap time.

Around the house... Everything is serene during nap time. The house is picked up, the dishes are mostly done, the laundry is pretty much caught up. Fr. Jeremy came Sunday night to bless the house and it does feel blessed.

One of my favorite things... cuddling with a brand new baby. The smell of a newborn - so sweet!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Sigh... no plans (bliss).

Here is picture thought I am sharing...


Go to The Simple Woman's Daybook blog to join in the fun and see other daybook entries. http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

That's my choir!

When Ian and I were in college at the University of Dallas, we sang with this awesome choir! This past Christmas the choir celebrated its 15th anniversary. In Italy. Without me.

Here is a video taken by one of the original choir members on the trip.

Collegium Cantorum live at Palestrina Duomo

Collegium Cantorum live at Santa Croce

I hope we can sing with them again soon!

Please read! CPSIA and how it might affect our lives

The Product Manager at our store has asked Aquinas and More affiliate bloggers to please post this letter and I urge you to put it on your blog as well, or at least link to mine so that as many people see it as possible. This could be devastating to many small businesses, including individuals who make and sell craft items for children in order to make a living.

Pass it on! ~Kitty

=============================================================================

Aquinas and More Sets Up CPSIA Central to Help Other Retailers

Colorado Springs, CO (January 20, 2009) – Aquinas and More Catholic Goods is announcing a new section of its blog, CPSIA Central, to help educate others about the CPSIA. This new law will affect Aquinas and More and many other retailers in the country, and the company is very concerned about the livelihood of other retailers who may not yet be well-informed about the law.

On February 10, 2009 the new law will go into effect and threaten many independent and small businesses. This law, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), mandates that every children's product – toys, books, apparel, CDs, and much more – marketed to and used by children aged 12 and younger be tested at an approved lab for a variety of toxins, including lead. This law is devastating to many small businesses who deal with or make children's items, because it requires testing to be done and documentation available by February 10 for retailers, or the products will have to be destroyed at that time. Testing isn't cheap – it can range from a couple hundred dollars to $4000 per item. Failure to comply with this law can result in a minimum fine of $100,000, and possibly even five years in prison. Retailers, suppliers, and manufacturers are all affected and responsible.

Somehow, this law is going largely unnoticed by the media and by many who will be directly affected once the law goes into effect. Aquinas and More Catholic Goods has set up a special section on its blog, Musings From a Catholic Bookstore, to help others educate themselves about this far-reaching law. CPSIA Central can be found at this address: http://catholicinformation.aquinasandmore.com/cpsia-central/. This page was set up because, while calling vendors to see what they were doing about CPSIA, Aquinas and More discovered that the majority had never even heard of this law and so are obviously unprepared. In the interest of helping as many as possible understand and prepare for this law, CPSIA Central includes important information and polls to gauge how this will affect people.

Aquinas and More has also included a list of vendors who are certified and those who have been contacted but are not yet certified. As most people have been blindsided by this law only recently, very few are compliant. Of the 27 vendors we have contacted at the time of writing this release, only two are prepared with products being tested and documentation forthcoming. 16 of those 27 are currently researching the law, and were largely unaware of it prior to our call. Aquinas and More has yet to hear back from nine of those who have been contacted. Because there has been so little information about this law in the media or anywhere else, most vendors will most likely not be prepared with the necessary testing and documentation in time for the deadline, which is now only three weeks away.

For more information about the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, check CPSIA Central frequently, as it will continue to be updated with the latest information. If you are a Christian vendor or retailer, please send Aquinas and More any updated information you might have so they can keep the information current on CPSIA Central.

About Aquinas and More

Aquinas and More Catholic Goods is the largest online Catholic retailer in the United States. We are committed to rebuilding Catholic culture through hundreds of articles and thousands of products in our online store (www.aquinasandmore.com). Good Faith. Guaranteed.

Contact:

Mike Davis, Product Manager

mikedavis@aquinasandmore.com

1-866-428-2820

Simple Woman's Daybook Monday, January 19, 2009

FOR TODAY MONDAY, JANUARY 19, 2009...

Outside my window... Wind! Lots of sun, mud where the snow has melted.

I am thinking... that I am going to be pregnant forever. This baby has made himself comfortable and plans on staying where it's cozy for as long as he can.

I am thankful for... a husband who takes all the kids shopping while I am immobile.

From the learning rooms... we are starting week 18 tomorrow. The older girls are learning about Italy and several of the United States of America. Annie is weeks ahead in her Math book.

From the kitchen... Oops! I better get the pork roast into the slow cooker pronto!

I am wearing... MATERNITY JEANS and a pink MATERNITY T-SHIRT. Baby is getting big, so these jeans don't really fit any more.

I am creating... a new budget.

I am going... to have a baby...I am going to have a baby...I am going to have a baby....

I am reading... Jesus of Nazareth, How to Tell Stories to Children, and St. Paul: A Bible Study Guide for Catholics for my monthly book discussion on Wednesday.

I am hoping... to have a baby soon...I am hoping to have a baby soon...I am hoping to have a baby soon....

I am hearing... Margaret practicing her Irish Dancing and Annie singing Christmas songs.

Around the house... Pretty quiet, since Ian took all the kids except Margaret & Annie (who have colds).

One of my favorite things... Having everything done that I needed to do (not that that is a reality at the moment).

A few plans for the rest of the week: Have a baby, book discussion on Wednesday, have a baby, Midwife's home visit on Friday, Get the girls ready for their Irish Dance competition on Saturday morning and go to my own baby shower in the afternoon, Mass on Sunday and have Fr. Jeremy over for dinner and our Epiphany blessing (finally). Oh. And have a baby.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... This is Ian and me at a restaurant celebrating our 12th anniversary and my birthday.

Visit the Simple Woman's Daybook here and join in the fun! Add your own daybook entry and read others' entries: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Nesting?

I have been "in labor" for almost a week now. I have had no energy, no stamina, no desire to get up for anything. Just intense contractions followed by fatigue, heartburn and weepyness.

Today I still have no desire, but somehow I have a little bit of energy. I managed to make a simple breakfast for myself and the kids, reheat leftovers for lunch without burning anything, put dinner in a crockpot (hopefully early enough), post two recipes, do laundry with the kids, help them with school work, rinse a few dishes and put them into the dish washer, supervise mopping, and balance my budget once again....

I know it doesn't sound like much, but it is a lot more than I have been able to do in several days. Sigh.

I also wanted to make some sourdough bread, but the smell of flour still bothers me (every pregnancy is different), so the sourdough will have to wait.

Chess Pie Recipe

This is a Southern classic. I have no idea why it is called "Chess" pie. If you know, please post a comment! This recipe comes from The America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook. If you don't have one on your shelf, I HIGHLY recommend it! I have used many of the recipes in it and have yet to find a bad one. EXCELLENT!

Buttermilk Chess Pie

3/4 C. buttermilk
1/2 C granulated sugar
1/2 C. packed light brown sugar
6 Tbsp. (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1 Tbsp. fine-ground cornmeal
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
1 recipe for single-crust pie dough, fit into pie plate and chilled, but not baked.

Adjust oven rack to lowest position, place a rimmed baking sheet o the rack, and heat to 375 degrees. Whisk all of the filling ingredients together until just combined, then pour into the unbaked chilled pie crust. Bake on the heated baking sheet until the center is set and the top is golden brown, 40 - 45 minutes. Transfer pie to a wire rack to cool until warm or room temperature before serving. Serve as is, or with freshly whipped, unsweetened cream and fresh berries!

NOTE: This pie can be made 2 days ahead of time, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated.

Rum Ball Recipe

I have been promising to post this (and other) recipe(s) for a while, so here it is. Mimi, the Chess Pie recipe is next I PROMISE!


RUM BALLS

2 boxes vanilla wafers (12 oz each), finely chopped in food processor
4 C. pecans (16 oz bag), finely chopped
4 C. powdered sugar
8 tsp. cocoa powder
6 tsp. light corn syrup
1 1/2 C. dark rum (or bourbon or brandy. I didn't have enough of any one thing, so I mixed rum and brandy. Hence, Rumdy Balls)

Mix all ingredients in a BIG bowl. Roll into balls by hand, and then roll the balls in regular sugar or cocoa powder or additional chopped nuts. Store in airtight container. Put in airtight tins or bags to give away as gifts.

Simple Woman's Daybook Monday, January 12, 2009

FOR TODAY Monday, January 12, 2009...

Outside my window... sun right before sunset, after a day of blizzard winds and snow!

I am thinking... that my baby will be born within a week of today.

I am thankful for... a warm bed, a loving husband who is willing to brave the snow to buy the week's groceries, and enough food in the pantry to last us a bit since the road conditions proved too much for him.

From the learning rooms... no formal school today, but the kids have been making things out of tissue paper, toothpicks, glue & Play Doh, and reading a lot of books.

From the kitchen... we made basic cookie dough last night and used cookie cutters to make the 3 Wise Men and teapot shapes. Then we "painted" them with egg yolk-and food coloring paints and baked them. They came out pretty nice!

I am wearing... maternity pajamas and socks, headband and glasses. No makeup today.

I am creating... Susan's Christmas stocking. I worked on it a little today. It is starting to look like something.

I am going... ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I ain't movin' until this baby is born, unless I suddenly get a great burst of energy and my bones don't hurt when I walk.

I am reading... Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover, Benedict XVI's Jesus of Nazareth, Joseph Pearce's The Quest for Shakespeare, and Your Pregnancy Companion.

I am hoping... the roads aren't bad this evening when Ian goes out for our weekly milk.

I am hearing... Susan (4) playing the piano and singing "Christ will die, Christ is Risen..."

Around the house... spare ribs baking in the oven with a yummy BBQ dry rub I made, kids finishing their chores (hopefully), and Ian taking a break from working on the computer.

One of my favorite things... Having Ian home when the weather is bad.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Birthing a baby.... Um, that's all. I have invited a couple over for dinner on Friday, which will ensure that I go into labor that day.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
Visit the Simple Woman's Daybook home page and join the fun! http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Waiting for Baby

Tomorrow (Jan 9, 2009) is the 36-week mark of my pregnancy. I have trouble sleeping, I have heartburn, my joints hurt, and I am tired and weepy. And I am happy. I have a brand-new human being growing and kicking inside me, and soon, God willing, I will get to hold him in my arms. We will name this child and present him to the Lord on his baptism day.

The waiting, especially this close to my due date, is hard. I have so many things I want to accomplish before the blessed event, but not enough time, talent or treasure to do it all. I wish I could strip and polish the kitchen and bathroom floors (or better yet, replace them with something sturdier and easier to clean); replace the little bath tub that has no place to rest your head with something a little more comfortable and patch a hole in the big tub so water doesn't leak down beneath the house (or wherever the water goes); organize the garage with sturdy shelving and put everything away so that there's room for both cars and all the bikes, with easy access to everything; sew hems on the curtains throughout the house so they don't drag on the floor; prepare meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in advance so that I don't have to cook anything for a while after the baby's born ....

The list could be eternal, but none of it is really important after all. Somehow I will survive if I can't relax in the small tub. Having boxes of Christmas decorations piled in the guest room for a little while longer will (probably) not kill me. Right now the important things are the children sitting around the table working on Math, the little ones playing with the toy kitchen pots under the same table, the hard-working husband making his business work, and the Mama thanking God for all these blessings and trials, because this is my path to heaven.

So I wait. Not always very patiently, not always the picture of serenity. But inside my soul is at peace. I sigh heavily under the weight of my growing belly, but I know God is with me every step of the way. I know He will be with me when this tiny miracle comes out to meet the world.

Simple Woman's Daybook, Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009

FOR TODAY, Tuesday, January 6, 2009...
Outside my window... very sparkly snow in full sunshine! It is cold, but we have the shades open to let in all that glorious light and heat.

I am thinking... That I would like to have a turkey avocado sandwich for lunch, but I don't have any turkey or avocado. Sigh.

I am thankful for... my wonderful husband who literally drove us ALL over town yesterday (shopping day) and for the life that God has given me.

From the learning rooms... We are starting up school again after our nice Advent/Christmas break.

From the kitchen... My In-Laws, to whom I am already eternally grateful for all that they have done for our family, from raising their son to be a wonderful husband to helping him start and run his business, to taking care of our children and teaching them to tie their shoes,... these In-Laws gave us a Bosch kitchen machine for Christmas! I have pored through the owner's manual and can't wait to make something! Today it will be cookies, and often it will be bread!

I am wearing... maternity (of course) jeans, a burgundy maternity top that is getting tight! warm socks from Ian's drawer, and brown suede Mary Janes.

I am creating... a clean home after the busy Christmas season. The ornaments will come off the tree today, and we'll vacuum up all the needles. Tonight I will start sewing Susan's Christmas stocking for next year.

I am going... I actually already went yesterday - shopping and errand running. Went to the bike shop, the bank, grocery, Costco, library, and I don't even remember where else.

I am reading... the owner's manual and recipe booklet for my new Bosch! Ian got Jesus of Nazareth by Pope Benedict XVI and another book called How to Read Stories to Children for Christmas, and I think I am going to have to borrow them when he's done reading them.

I am hoping... that the baby is born soon.

I am hearing... the hum of the clothes dryer, the hum of Maria eating a piece of bread in her high chair, and an "Echoes of Spain" CD.

Around the house... Margaret & Annie flipping through reading books, Andrew arranging his knights with the new ones he got for Christmas, Maria singing to herself, Susan choosing a new CD.

One of my favorite things... NOT having heartburn!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Plan the week's menus and then REMEMBER to take things out of the freezer so it thaws before I have to cook them. Midwife tomorrow, friends over for a play date on Friday, chocolate party on Saturday (doesn't that sound wonderful? I can't wait to find out what it all means!)

Here is picture thought I am sharing...
Note the pregnant Mary BEFORE Dec. 25th!

Peggy is still on vacation this week (she'll be back next Monday), but if you want to find out how to add your Daybook entry to her list, go here: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/