"But suddenly, what had been an ideal had become a demand: total surrender to God, the absolute leap in the dark. The demand was not even 'all or nothing...' that stage had been passed. Now the demand was simply, 'All!'"
And that about sums it up. Which is good, because, I am sad to admit, I am 2/5 this week on my Block-a-Day. (Luckily, I was 5/4 last week, so I can use that as a buffer.)
And, I would also like to paint my upstairs bathroom today while my two big kids are at the Grandma's house. But first I have to wash the wallpaper paste residue off, and I have been procrastinating about that for, oh, a week. I was really hoping Joe would do it.
So, happy Friday to you. And have a blessed weekend.
XOXO
Joce
Friday, March 19, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Patrick's Day
Have a good beer, and say:
Here's to the land of the Shamrock so green,
Here's to each Lad and his darlin Colleen,
Here's to the ones we love dearest and most.
May God bless ole Ireland, that's an Irishman's toast.
Anyway, I got behind on my Block-A-Day for Haiti, and need to go do that instead of regaling you all with my excellent prose.
XOXO
Joce
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
It's like He's trying to tell me something...Or, Nancy Pelosi is a Goat
Honest to goodness, all I am doing is reading my Bible- and BAM! God speaks. Like, everyday.
James 5
Warning to Rich Oppressors
1Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. 4Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.[a] 6You have condemned and murdered innocent men, who were not opposing you.
I used to read right over this. "I am not rich," I said to myself. It didn't apply to me.
But then I read Crazy Love and Francis Chan has to go and tell me this: 52% of people in the world live on less than 2 dollars a day. 80% live on 10 dollars or less. FYI: That's 300 dollars a month. Total. We spend more than double that just for our house. Not to heat it or maintain it or have water or electricity. Just to have it.
I am loaded! Flush. Filthy stinking rich. I have never been hungry or cold.
I am rich. I am comfortably fat. My children are pink and chubby. And,"according to UNICEF, 25,000 children die each day due to poverty."
If I am to love my neighbor as myself, my heart should break as if my own children are dying.
God, I pray You rip the callouses off my heart, and let me feel Your love for humanity.
I cannot help them all. But I could at least try to help one.
It's not that hard. Compassion International makes it easy. And rewarding in human terms- you get a picture and can write letters to your sponsored child.
At different Christian events I have attended in the past, Compassion International has always presented sponsoring a child as something nice to do. You know, it only costs what you spend on your latte, etc, etc.
I wish they had hit me over the head with "HEY! God says you better do it or go to hell! Your wealth will eat the flesh off your bones! You are fattening yourself for SLAUGHTER."
Yeah. I would like to hear a less complacent pitch from organizations that are helping the poverty-stricken people of the world. I am a little angry that I haven't heard this preached from a pulpit. When they talk about money it is about is tithing, which is important, but good gracious. God doesn't say "Depart from me you non-tither" He does say, "When I was hungry you did not feed me- go to the left." And by that, I am pretty sure he means hell. (Although some people might argue that He means "Go sit by Nancy Pelosi." Maybe it's the same thing.) I wish someone had pointed out that I am filthy rich and I need to FEED PEOPLE sometime prior to this.
I have been rich my WHOLE life. I have not been helping the poor my whole life. I am glad for God's grace, let me tell you.
Alright, I am not done, but my kids are ready for school, and my right babyfeeder is about to pop.
XOXO,
Joce
Monday, March 15, 2010
The least of these...
I am noticing that my recent posts are full of scripture and spiritual topics lately. God is working on my life and I am excited about it. If you find yourself rolling your eyes when you visit my blog, "Oh my goodness, another Bible verse?" I suggest that you pray for God to open your heart to what He has for your life.
God has been telling me over and over, beating me over the head, really, that true faith will show itself in caring for those less fortunate. Today, I read in James 4:17 "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Yeah. So, I really need to get my butt in gear. It is of no use for me to have an epiphany (a piffy-what?) of what God wants from me and then be immobilized by whatever it is that keeps me from action. I think my upbringing of "don't pry" keeps me from hearing about what people need, and my cushy life keeps me away from places where I would see what people need.
So, my prayer is that God would show me the need, and give me the courage to mention it and offer my help.
I want to hear how others are living out their faith by giving food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothes to the naked, and shelter to homeless. Please comment on how you are doing it, or how you are going to do it.
XOXO
Joce
God has been telling me over and over, beating me over the head, really, that true faith will show itself in caring for those less fortunate. Today, I read in James 4:17 "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Yeah. So, I really need to get my butt in gear. It is of no use for me to have an epiphany (a piffy-what?) of what God wants from me and then be immobilized by whatever it is that keeps me from action. I think my upbringing of "don't pry" keeps me from hearing about what people need, and my cushy life keeps me away from places where I would see what people need.
So, my prayer is that God would show me the need, and give me the courage to mention it and offer my help.
I want to hear how others are living out their faith by giving food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothes to the naked, and shelter to homeless. Please comment on how you are doing it, or how you are going to do it.
XOXO
Joce
Friday, March 12, 2010
James and the Giant Peach
James 3
"Just as a giant peach can roll down a hill and cause great destruction, so a woman's tongue can flap wildly out of control and cause devastation to her neighbors."
That's not really how it goes. But you can imagine if did.
Here's the real one:
Taming the Tongue
1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or 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. 5Likewise 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. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11Can both fresh water and saltwater flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Want to gossip? Count me out. I am not into spewing salt water onto those around me. I'd like to be more of a refreshing fountain.
XOXO
Joce
"Just as a giant peach can roll down a hill and cause great destruction, so a woman's tongue can flap wildly out of control and cause devastation to her neighbors."
That's not really how it goes. But you can imagine if did.
Here's the real one:
Taming the Tongue
1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or 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. 5Likewise 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. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11Can both fresh water and saltwater flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Want to gossip? Count me out. I am not into spewing salt water onto those around me. I'd like to be more of a refreshing fountain.
XOXO
Joce
Thursday, March 11, 2010
True Religion
Disclaimer: I am not perfect and I do not exemplify true religion in all areas of my life. I am writing this because I was struck by the difference between what is described here and how we, Christ's followers in America, live.
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
Honest to goodness, I do not see too many Christians I know doing either of these things.
We do not bother ourselves over the abandoned children in our foster care system or over the truly orphaned children in places like Russia, Rwaanda, Haiti, etc. We look at single moms and do not see Christ in her. That would be too overwhelming.
How could we ever begin to care for these women with no husbands?
Isn't their own fault anyway?
God doesn't call us to care for people who are just reaping what they sowed, does He?
I think we need to consider what He meant when he told us to love our neighbors. He didn't say "Love your neighbors who through no fault of their own have fallen on a bit of bad luck and through your involvement will immediately turn to me and change their ways." He said "What you have done to these least of these, you have done unto me." What do you think He meant be "least of these?"
He was serious about helping those less fortunate. I think we should be, too.
And the second part- to keep oneself from being polluted by the world? We are so polluted we can't even distinguish the garbage from the good stuff. We stink of consumerism, greed, selfishness, and superficiality so badly that we can't smell how awful it is. We are desensitized. We are so immersed in the sludge of this world, we have started to believe it to be a GIFT OF GOD. "Oh, thank you Lord for my minivan and my house and my new clothes and my white teeth and my new ability to assert myself and thank you for sending your Son to make this all possible." We have church-sponsored self-ism. Like 'spiritual' retreats at 4 star hotels, and financial planning worshops that illustrate how to make more money for yourSELF so your kids can go to college and you won't be a burden to anyone in your old age. There is no talk of giving it away and trusting God and His infinite riches to supply all your need.
We have adopted the attitudes of this world so fully we think it is what God wants for us. That making money and having our kids play soccer is His WILL FOR OUR LIVES. That's not it folks. He has been pounding me over the head lately at how much this is NOT what He wants for us. He has SO. MUCH. MORE.
But to find out what that is, we are going to need to surrender the garbage we have stuffed up our noses and allow God fill our lives with His sweet fragrance. I have only pulled a tiny bit of the garbage out of my nose and I have already started to notice that the treasures of this world stink. Let us stop jumping head first into the garbage heap of this world, and begin to pull ourselves and our brothers and sisters out. Then let us allow Christ to wash us, put on some clean clothes, and avoid being polluted by this world with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
When you meet your Father in heaven, do you think he will say, "Hey nice job having your kid play travel soccer, and, you always looked so nice with your hair highlighted like that." I don't think that is what God is proud of. That is not what He would have us live for.
I am looking forward to great things that God has for me to do.
I am looking forward to hearing God say, "Well done, you good little servant."
Make a change. Get some true religion.
XOXO
Joce
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
Honest to goodness, I do not see too many Christians I know doing either of these things.
We do not bother ourselves over the abandoned children in our foster care system or over the truly orphaned children in places like Russia, Rwaanda, Haiti, etc. We look at single moms and do not see Christ in her. That would be too overwhelming.
How could we ever begin to care for these women with no husbands?
Isn't their own fault anyway?
God doesn't call us to care for people who are just reaping what they sowed, does He?
I think we need to consider what He meant when he told us to love our neighbors. He didn't say "Love your neighbors who through no fault of their own have fallen on a bit of bad luck and through your involvement will immediately turn to me and change their ways." He said "What you have done to these least of these, you have done unto me." What do you think He meant be "least of these?"
He was serious about helping those less fortunate. I think we should be, too.
And the second part- to keep oneself from being polluted by the world? We are so polluted we can't even distinguish the garbage from the good stuff. We stink of consumerism, greed, selfishness, and superficiality so badly that we can't smell how awful it is. We are desensitized. We are so immersed in the sludge of this world, we have started to believe it to be a GIFT OF GOD. "Oh, thank you Lord for my minivan and my house and my new clothes and my white teeth and my new ability to assert myself and thank you for sending your Son to make this all possible." We have church-sponsored self-ism. Like 'spiritual' retreats at 4 star hotels, and financial planning worshops that illustrate how to make more money for yourSELF so your kids can go to college and you won't be a burden to anyone in your old age. There is no talk of giving it away and trusting God and His infinite riches to supply all your need.
We have adopted the attitudes of this world so fully we think it is what God wants for us. That making money and having our kids play soccer is His WILL FOR OUR LIVES. That's not it folks. He has been pounding me over the head lately at how much this is NOT what He wants for us. He has SO. MUCH. MORE.
But to find out what that is, we are going to need to surrender the garbage we have stuffed up our noses and allow God fill our lives with His sweet fragrance. I have only pulled a tiny bit of the garbage out of my nose and I have already started to notice that the treasures of this world stink. Let us stop jumping head first into the garbage heap of this world, and begin to pull ourselves and our brothers and sisters out. Then let us allow Christ to wash us, put on some clean clothes, and avoid being polluted by this world with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
When you meet your Father in heaven, do you think he will say, "Hey nice job having your kid play travel soccer, and, you always looked so nice with your hair highlighted like that." I don't think that is what God is proud of. That is not what He would have us live for.
I am looking forward to great things that God has for me to do.
I am looking forward to hearing God say, "Well done, you good little servant."
Make a change. Get some true religion.
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
A block a day, and The Quote of the Day
Free Methodist International Child Care Ministries is coordinating a project called "Blankets for Haiti."
A lady from Northgate is the point person for the Rochester/Batavia area and I heard about this through Northgate's MOPS.
The vision is to have folks who knit or crochet make blocks measuring 7"X9", and put them together to make quilt-style blankets.
So, I have decided to crochet a block a day until Easter. I am giving up the reading of novels for Lent, and in its place I will be crocheting. (You should know that I am in the middle of the Twilight series.)
I would like to ask you, my friends who can knit or crochet, to see if there is any way you could make a few blocks, or even commit to the "Block a Day" challenge. You don't have time. I know. But perhaps by giving up something frivolous (like Facebook, or Grey's Anatomy) you could make time for this work of love. If you would like to participate long-distance, you could certainly mail the blocks to me.
And, then, over Easter break, I will be hosting a "Blanket Bee" to put some of these blocks together. Joe has even offered to provide childcare.
The only stipulations are: 1. Use polyester/acrylic yarn (to avoid uneven shrinkage) and 2. use a 7"X9" cardboard template to use as a measuring tool instead of a ruler or measuring tape (it is a more accurate tool, and we really need the blocks to be as uniform as possible.)
What a simple way to comfort and send love to the children of Haiti- with a warm, handmade blanket.
And now for the quote of the day. I just this morning finished reading the book, Crazy Love, by Francis Chan. I will post about how this book has changed my life in another post, but here is just one quote that made its mark on my heart today.
"The greatest thought that has ever entered my mind is that one day I will have to stand before a holy God and give an account of my life." ~Daniel Webster
Please think about showing some love by making some blocks, and take some time to meditate on the thought presented in the above quote.
XOXO,
Joce
A lady from Northgate is the point person for the Rochester/Batavia area and I heard about this through Northgate's MOPS.
The vision is to have folks who knit or crochet make blocks measuring 7"X9", and put them together to make quilt-style blankets.
So, I have decided to crochet a block a day until Easter. I am giving up the reading of novels for Lent, and in its place I will be crocheting. (You should know that I am in the middle of the Twilight series.)
I would like to ask you, my friends who can knit or crochet, to see if there is any way you could make a few blocks, or even commit to the "Block a Day" challenge. You don't have time. I know. But perhaps by giving up something frivolous (like Facebook, or Grey's Anatomy) you could make time for this work of love. If you would like to participate long-distance, you could certainly mail the blocks to me.
And, then, over Easter break, I will be hosting a "Blanket Bee" to put some of these blocks together. Joe has even offered to provide childcare.
The only stipulations are: 1. Use polyester/acrylic yarn (to avoid uneven shrinkage) and 2. use a 7"X9" cardboard template to use as a measuring tool instead of a ruler or measuring tape (it is a more accurate tool, and we really need the blocks to be as uniform as possible.)
What a simple way to comfort and send love to the children of Haiti- with a warm, handmade blanket.
And now for the quote of the day. I just this morning finished reading the book, Crazy Love, by Francis Chan. I will post about how this book has changed my life in another post, but here is just one quote that made its mark on my heart today.
"The greatest thought that has ever entered my mind is that one day I will have to stand before a holy God and give an account of my life." ~Daniel Webster
Please think about showing some love by making some blocks, and take some time to meditate on the thought presented in the above quote.
XOXO,
Joce
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Sic em on a chicken
Please play the above song, and read along with the lyrics, if you need it.
NOTE: The link sucks. When you click on it, wait for the page to load and then select song number 12.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken. Bring out the butter and the flour we're ready to fry.
My dog Pete is the smallest dog of all the dogs in my yard
He's a mean so'm bitch
Drinks Beam and water from a broken mason jar
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Bring out the butter and the flour we're ready to fry.
I heard this awful noise coming from the woods
I heard chicken screams
Know it ain't gonna be good
Well I think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken because I just heard a cry
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken but you can get another one for a dollar 79
In a couple of years his spurs have grown
He wasn't safe to keep around the home
When he almost took an eyeball from Lonny's son
And I was sitting at home making fig preserves
And I'd seen where that kid got kicked in the face
And I knew that that was the day that chicken was going to get what he deserved
So I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken and Pete hit 'em from the side
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken and me and Pete suppered on a home made chicken pot pie
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken
Get that chicken
I can smell the kitchen and it's almost supper time.
Yeah. We killed the old red rooster. He was mean, and I wanted some pot pie. He attacked me on Saturday morning. He made me cry. And Joe? He shot his bloody head off. The end.
XOXO
Joce
NOTE: The link sucks. When you click on it, wait for the page to load and then select song number 12.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken. Bring out the butter and the flour we're ready to fry.
My dog Pete is the smallest dog of all the dogs in my yard
He's a mean so'm bitch
Drinks Beam and water from a broken mason jar
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Bring out the butter and the flour we're ready to fry.
I heard this awful noise coming from the woods
I heard chicken screams
Know it ain't gonna be good
Well I think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken because I just heard a cry
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken
Think we lost the chicken but you can get another one for a dollar 79
In a couple of years his spurs have grown
He wasn't safe to keep around the home
When he almost took an eyeball from Lonny's son
And I was sitting at home making fig preserves
And I'd seen where that kid got kicked in the face
And I knew that that was the day that chicken was going to get what he deserved
So I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken and Pete hit 'em from the side
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken
I chased the chicken and me and Pete suppered on a home made chicken pot pie
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken.
Sic 'em on a chicken and watch them feathers fly
Sic 'em on a chicken
Get that chicken
I can smell the kitchen and it's almost supper time.
Yeah. We killed the old red rooster. He was mean, and I wanted some pot pie. He attacked me on Saturday morning. He made me cry. And Joe? He shot his bloody head off. The end.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, March 01, 2010
Wow.
So, I like to cook. I like to think of myself as having made lots of yummy things in my lifetime. I may have reached my apex with a recipe that has been within arm's reach MY WHOLE LIFE. In the Red and White Better Homes and Gardens cookbook, which I have been using MY WHOLE LIFE (I honestly do not know how I overlooked this recipe for so many years), I may have found God's intention for the use of chocolate.
Chocolate Revel Bars
Prep: 30 minutes
Bake: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup butter or margarine
2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
1 14-ounce can (1-1/4 cups) sweetened condensed milk
1 12-ounce package (2 cups) semisweet chocolate pieces
1 cup chopped walnuts
2 teaspoons vanilla
Directions
1. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the butter or margarine. In a large mixing bowl beat the remaining butter or margarine with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar; beat until well mixed. Beat in eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla. In another large bowl stir together flour and baking soda; stir in oats. Gradually stir dry mixture into beaten mixture. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan combine the reserved butter or margarine, the sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate pieces. Cook over low heat until chocolate melts, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in walnuts and the 2 teaspoons vanilla.
3. Press two-thirds (about 3-1/3 cups) of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Spread chocolate mixture over the oat mixture. Using your fingers, dot remaining oat mixture over the chocolate.
4, Bake in a 350 degree F oven about 25 minutes or until top is lightly browned (chocolate mixture will still look moist). Cool on a wire rack. Cut into 2x1-inch bars. Makes about 75 bars.
Make-Ahead Tip: Line the baking pan with foil, extending the foil over edges of pan. Prepare and bake bars in foil-lined pan as above. Cool; lift bars out of pan on the foil. Place uncut bars in freezer bag or container. Seal, label, date, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw bars at room temperature about 15 minutes. Once thawed, cut into bars.
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe about 75 bars Calories 117, Total Fat (g) 6, Saturated Fat (g) 2, Cholesterol (mg) 14, Sodium (mg) 52, Carbohydrate (g) 16, Protein (g) 2, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Yeah, I pretty much followed the recipe except I added 1/2 C peanut butter to the chocolate filling.
And, I made it in a 9X13 pan, so I had some of the oat stuff left over. I just added some peanut butter to that and some chocolate chips, rolled it into little balls and, voila- cookies. Good cookies, at that.
So, be good to yourself and your loved ones and make these. Today.
XOXO
Joce
Chocolate Revel Bars
Prep: 30 minutes
Bake: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup butter or margarine
2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
1 14-ounce can (1-1/4 cups) sweetened condensed milk
1 12-ounce package (2 cups) semisweet chocolate pieces
1 cup chopped walnuts
2 teaspoons vanilla
Directions
1. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the butter or margarine. In a large mixing bowl beat the remaining butter or margarine with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar; beat until well mixed. Beat in eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla. In another large bowl stir together flour and baking soda; stir in oats. Gradually stir dry mixture into beaten mixture. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan combine the reserved butter or margarine, the sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate pieces. Cook over low heat until chocolate melts, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in walnuts and the 2 teaspoons vanilla.
3. Press two-thirds (about 3-1/3 cups) of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Spread chocolate mixture over the oat mixture. Using your fingers, dot remaining oat mixture over the chocolate.
4, Bake in a 350 degree F oven about 25 minutes or until top is lightly browned (chocolate mixture will still look moist). Cool on a wire rack. Cut into 2x1-inch bars. Makes about 75 bars.
Make-Ahead Tip: Line the baking pan with foil, extending the foil over edges of pan. Prepare and bake bars in foil-lined pan as above. Cool; lift bars out of pan on the foil. Place uncut bars in freezer bag or container. Seal, label, date, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw bars at room temperature about 15 minutes. Once thawed, cut into bars.
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe about 75 bars Calories 117, Total Fat (g) 6, Saturated Fat (g) 2, Cholesterol (mg) 14, Sodium (mg) 52, Carbohydrate (g) 16, Protein (g) 2, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Yeah, I pretty much followed the recipe except I added 1/2 C peanut butter to the chocolate filling.
And, I made it in a 9X13 pan, so I had some of the oat stuff left over. I just added some peanut butter to that and some chocolate chips, rolled it into little balls and, voila- cookies. Good cookies, at that.
So, be good to yourself and your loved ones and make these. Today.
XOXO
Joce
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Here's the picture for which you have all been waiting
Thanks to Kara who took this picture and also posted it to Facebook so I could just go get it and post it here.
This is, in fact, my baby son Jessup.
Cute, huh?
He's a happy guy, what can I say?
Blessings,
XOXO
Joce
This is, in fact, my baby son Jessup.
Cute, huh?
He's a happy guy, what can I say?
Blessings,
XOXO
Joce
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Enjoy your money!
I am reading a life-changing book, Crazy Love by Francis Chan.
I would like to share a quote he shared in the book.
Robert Murray M'Cheyne, a Scottish pastor who lived in the early 19th century, wrote these words,
"I am concerned for the poor but more for you. I know not what Christ will say to you in the great day.... I fear there are many hearing me who may know well that they are not Christians because they do not love to give. To give largely and liberally, not grudgingly at all, requires a new heart; an old heart would rather part with its life-blood than its money. Oh my friends! Enjoy your money; make the most of it; give none of it away; enjoy it quickly for I can tell you, you will be beggars throughout eternity."
Blessings,
Jocelyn
I would like to share a quote he shared in the book.
Robert Murray M'Cheyne, a Scottish pastor who lived in the early 19th century, wrote these words,
"I am concerned for the poor but more for you. I know not what Christ will say to you in the great day.... I fear there are many hearing me who may know well that they are not Christians because they do not love to give. To give largely and liberally, not grudgingly at all, requires a new heart; an old heart would rather part with its life-blood than its money. Oh my friends! Enjoy your money; make the most of it; give none of it away; enjoy it quickly for I can tell you, you will be beggars throughout eternity."
Blessings,
Jocelyn
Friday, February 19, 2010
Awesome giveaway!
Go to Life in a Shoe to see about a great giveaway of lovely modest women's clothing. And, even if you don't win, it's worth checking out because the clothes are beautiful and not too expensive.
Also- Life in a Shoe is quite an interesting blog to read anytime- there are nine kids in the family, and they're working it!
Also- Life in a Shoe is quite an interesting blog to read anytime- there are nine kids in the family, and they're working it!
The response....
Dear Jocelyn:
Thank you for contacting me regarding Senate Bill S. 4779, and Assembly Bills A.778 and A.6702. I appreciate your initiative in writing to me with your concerns.
S.4779 and A.6702 would allow health care practitioners to provide health care related to the prevention of a sexually transmissible disease without parental consent. A.778 would require immunization against HPV to be administered to children throughout New York similar to other immunization schedules that are currently in place.
While I recognize that sexually transmitted diseases, particularly HPV, pose a serious threat to our children, and while I generally support the administration of vaccines against these diseases, I’m hesitant to support any bill which would exclude parents from their children’s health decisions and remove a physicians supervision from the administration of medical services.
As a strong supporter of parents rights, I appreciate your comments and will remember them if these bills come to the floor for a vote.
Again, thank you for contacting me. Please do not hesitate to call or write me should you have any further questions or comments with regard to this bill or any other State matter. Also, I invite you to visit my website, ranzenhofer.nysenate.gov, and to sign up for my email updates.
Sincerely,
MICHAEL RANZENHOFER
State Senator
Thank you for contacting me regarding Senate Bill S. 4779, and Assembly Bills A.778 and A.6702. I appreciate your initiative in writing to me with your concerns.
S.4779 and A.6702 would allow health care practitioners to provide health care related to the prevention of a sexually transmissible disease without parental consent. A.778 would require immunization against HPV to be administered to children throughout New York similar to other immunization schedules that are currently in place.
While I recognize that sexually transmitted diseases, particularly HPV, pose a serious threat to our children, and while I generally support the administration of vaccines against these diseases, I’m hesitant to support any bill which would exclude parents from their children’s health decisions and remove a physicians supervision from the administration of medical services.
As a strong supporter of parents rights, I appreciate your comments and will remember them if these bills come to the floor for a vote.
Again, thank you for contacting me. Please do not hesitate to call or write me should you have any further questions or comments with regard to this bill or any other State matter. Also, I invite you to visit my website, ranzenhofer.nysenate.gov, and to sign up for my email updates.
Sincerely,
MICHAEL RANZENHOFER
State Senator
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Take this to heart
I heard today that yet another person who influenced my life has gone on to be with Jesus.
I haven't seen her in years, but I can still see her blue eyes flashing in the kid-watching mirror on the bus- letting me know I had better sit down or else.
Who needs bus monitors when you could have someone with eyes like that driving the bus?
She used to have the mouthy kids sit in the garbage basket up in the front right next to her.
She wasn't tall- she had big wooden blocks attached to the bus pedals so she could drive it. I remember her stress whenever she had to take her driver's test and had to drive without the blocks on.
She also was my 4-H leader. She taught me indoor gardening for a couple of years. She called (and kept) our meetings to order.
She put effort into the lives of kids in her community. She had a tie-dying meeting at her HOUSE once. She definitely had an influence on who I am.
But she's gone from this world. I won't see her again.
And I got the news this morning, right after reading this;
"It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart." Ecclesiastes 7:2.
I have been in the house of mourning for a while now. It seems that my losses just keep stacking up. But the author of Ecclesiastes is right. It has helped me to "take to heart" that death is my destiny. And, it is changing the way I live. Not in the fluffy chain email way of "wear your pretty underwear" but in the way of, "whose life have I touched for Christ today?" As Francis Chan writes in his book- Crazy Love "Friends, we need to stop living selfish lives, forgetful of our God. Our lives here are short, often unexpectedly so, and we can all stand to be reminded of it from time to time."
The people whom I have lost over the last 9 months have not been old. 18, 16, 56, 56, 62, 59. I think of my mom- did she know when she was my age (30) that she had already lived more than half of her life. No. And I don't have any guarantee that I will get to finish this post. Or that you'll get to finish reading it.
Go live.
For Jesus.
XOXO
Joce
I haven't seen her in years, but I can still see her blue eyes flashing in the kid-watching mirror on the bus- letting me know I had better sit down or else.
Who needs bus monitors when you could have someone with eyes like that driving the bus?
She used to have the mouthy kids sit in the garbage basket up in the front right next to her.
She wasn't tall- she had big wooden blocks attached to the bus pedals so she could drive it. I remember her stress whenever she had to take her driver's test and had to drive without the blocks on.
She also was my 4-H leader. She taught me indoor gardening for a couple of years. She called (and kept) our meetings to order.
She put effort into the lives of kids in her community. She had a tie-dying meeting at her HOUSE once. She definitely had an influence on who I am.
But she's gone from this world. I won't see her again.
And I got the news this morning, right after reading this;
"It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart." Ecclesiastes 7:2.
I have been in the house of mourning for a while now. It seems that my losses just keep stacking up. But the author of Ecclesiastes is right. It has helped me to "take to heart" that death is my destiny. And, it is changing the way I live. Not in the fluffy chain email way of "wear your pretty underwear" but in the way of, "whose life have I touched for Christ today?" As Francis Chan writes in his book- Crazy Love "Friends, we need to stop living selfish lives, forgetful of our God. Our lives here are short, often unexpectedly so, and we can all stand to be reminded of it from time to time."
The people whom I have lost over the last 9 months have not been old. 18, 16, 56, 56, 62, 59. I think of my mom- did she know when she was my age (30) that she had already lived more than half of her life. No. And I don't have any guarantee that I will get to finish this post. Or that you'll get to finish reading it.
Go live.
For Jesus.
XOXO
Joce
Friday, February 12, 2010
Thursday, February 11, 2010
When it rains...
So, I guess it's contagious- Congress heard NY had stupid bills in the works, so they had to have one, too.
I guess they are trying to regulate vitamins. You can read about it yourself. My main concern is that they would take away my right to be in possession of more than one packet of Emergen-C. Really. I love that stuff.
Go to citizens.org, read about it, and then feel free to use their orange link in the upper right hand corner to write to your senators.
It is really really easy.
Well, honest to goodness, I'll try to think of something more interesting for my next post.
XOXO
Joce
I guess they are trying to regulate vitamins. You can read about it yourself. My main concern is that they would take away my right to be in possession of more than one packet of Emergen-C. Really. I love that stuff.
Go to citizens.org, read about it, and then feel free to use their orange link in the upper right hand corner to write to your senators.
It is really really easy.
Well, honest to goodness, I'll try to think of something more interesting for my next post.
XOXO
Joce
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Parental rights
Hi folks-
It's time to write a letter.
Read these bills:
S04779
A6702
A0778
Your rights as a parent to know when your child is treated for an STD and to chose whether or not to vaccinate against STD's are at stake.
Write to your senator here, and your assemblyman here. All you need to know is your zip code.
If you don't know what to write, feel free to use my letter as template.
Dear ......
I am writing concerning bills S4779, A0778, and A6702.
I ask that you represent me as a parent in New York State by voting against these bills. They remove parental consent for treatment of sexually transmitted disease in minors, and legally enforce a vaccine that treats HPV. I have many reasons for asking you to vote against these bills, but my main concern is that they strip parents of their rights to make important decisions about their childrens' health and well-being.
I believe that our state and our country have been successful thus far because of a commitment to maintaining the rights of their citizens. Please vote no to taking away parents' rights to know when their children are treated for an STD and to choose whether or not to vaccinate against a sexually transmitted disease.
Thank you for your commitment to represent the people of western New York.
May God bless your work,
Jocelyn Rebisz
So, readers in NYS, please take the time to email your Senator and Assemblyman if you value your rights as a parent. Be aware that these bills are precedent setting and can be used in the future to justify legislation that mandates more STD vaccines, and to further strip parents of their rights to know about their childrens' medical treatment.
Thanks for taking time to be involved in your government- for the people, by the people. If you don't speak up- your representatives can't really represent you.
Use it or lose it. You know, your right to have an opinion.
And remember, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." What you can do is let your voice be heard.
Not yet motivated? I'll bake you some cookies. Really. If that's what it takes.
Blessings to you and your families (who currently know when a child is treated for an STD and has a choice as to whether to vaccinate against HPV),
Jocelyn
It's time to write a letter.
Read these bills:
S04779
A6702
A0778
Your rights as a parent to know when your child is treated for an STD and to chose whether or not to vaccinate against STD's are at stake.
Write to your senator here, and your assemblyman here. All you need to know is your zip code.
If you don't know what to write, feel free to use my letter as template.
Dear ......
I am writing concerning bills S4779, A0778, and A6702.
I ask that you represent me as a parent in New York State by voting against these bills. They remove parental consent for treatment of sexually transmitted disease in minors, and legally enforce a vaccine that treats HPV. I have many reasons for asking you to vote against these bills, but my main concern is that they strip parents of their rights to make important decisions about their childrens' health and well-being.
I believe that our state and our country have been successful thus far because of a commitment to maintaining the rights of their citizens. Please vote no to taking away parents' rights to know when their children are treated for an STD and to choose whether or not to vaccinate against a sexually transmitted disease.
Thank you for your commitment to represent the people of western New York.
May God bless your work,
Jocelyn Rebisz
So, readers in NYS, please take the time to email your Senator and Assemblyman if you value your rights as a parent. Be aware that these bills are precedent setting and can be used in the future to justify legislation that mandates more STD vaccines, and to further strip parents of their rights to know about their childrens' medical treatment.
Thanks for taking time to be involved in your government- for the people, by the people. If you don't speak up- your representatives can't really represent you.
Use it or lose it. You know, your right to have an opinion.
And remember, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." What you can do is let your voice be heard.
Not yet motivated? I'll bake you some cookies. Really. If that's what it takes.
Blessings to you and your families (who currently know when a child is treated for an STD and has a choice as to whether to vaccinate against HPV),
Jocelyn
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Update
Sorry about the lack of pictures.
I have not been doing much around here...I am recuperating from, get ready now: high velocity trauma pubic symphysis diastasis. Say that three times fast. It means, mostly, that my baby ripped through the birth canal at a high speed with a fat little body and a not-so-small head. And he tore some ligaments on his way.
So, I am having some trouble getting around.
So, I am not going to get up and get the camera, wherever it is.
Remember that this is hunting season and deer pictures seem to out-rank the newborn baby. LOL.
XOXO
Joce
I have not been doing much around here...I am recuperating from, get ready now: high velocity trauma pubic symphysis diastasis. Say that three times fast. It means, mostly, that my baby ripped through the birth canal at a high speed with a fat little body and a not-so-small head. And he tore some ligaments on his way.
So, I am having some trouble getting around.
So, I am not going to get up and get the camera, wherever it is.
Remember that this is hunting season and deer pictures seem to out-rank the newborn baby. LOL.
XOXO
Joce
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Finally, baby...
Jessup Ivan Rebisz
November 25th, 2009.
7:06 p.m.
9 pounds, 4 ounces; 22 inches.
More to follow, of course.
XOXO
Joce
November 25th, 2009.
7:06 p.m.
9 pounds, 4 ounces; 22 inches.
More to follow, of course.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, November 23, 2009
And for today...
Thought of the day; "Castor oil, shmastor oil."
Plan for the day; ~Go to scheduled PREnatal appointment.
Prayer for the day; "Dear Lord, I have learned my lesson. You have made it clear that I need to learn some humility. I will do so. Now please, oh, please let me have a baby. Amen."
XOXO,
Joce
Plan for the day; ~Go to scheduled PREnatal appointment.
Prayer for the day; "Dear Lord, I have learned my lesson. You have made it clear that I need to learn some humility. I will do so. Now please, oh, please let me have a baby. Amen."
XOXO,
Joce
Friday, November 20, 2009
Baby update
There is no baby yet.
I mean, not one you can see and hold and dress in cute clothes.
So, unless the baby comes tonight or tomorrow (which would really be hilarious because of how much Joe has worried that that might happen) (because Saturday is Opening Day of Shotgun Season, that's why) I think I will pull a Pamela and have a few shots of the baby-producing Castor Oil on Sunday before church.
Shots before church sounds fun to a 41 week pregnant lady, ok?
Ok. So I plan to miss the dinner afterward. And the dedication of the new blue chairs with padded seats for the fellowship hall. Which, is too bad because I appreciate a good padded folding chair.
But anyway, my doctor has been acting all concerned that I am overdue, or "postdates" as they like to say. (I am not concerned, in case you don't know that about me. I do not allow myself to become concerned until 42 weeks, or the baby gets distressed, or HUGE, not me, the baby- I have obviously come to terms with me being huge.) Anyway.
So I was at my pain-in-the-butt (but necessary, for once, because the baby hadn't moved for like 10 hours, and I was starting to feel the worry) Non-Stress Test and the nurse/midwife let it slip that my dear doctor is going on vacation next week. Ah. "Now I see," said the blind man, as he picked up his hammer and saw. My doctor is concerned because she wants me to have the baby before she arrives in a tropical climate, or goes to see family for Thanksgiving, whichever.
So anyway. I am getting sick of the over-concern about my postdates status and the constant NST's. They scheduled me for another one on Monday, because I would not agree to being given the pitosin on Monday. So they punish me by tying me to a machine for a half an hour. And that is the appropriate time-out for an almost thirty year old. So I know that's what it is- time out.
So, I will give myself the Castor Oil and try to avoid the drug-pushers' dose of pitosin and then the resulting epidural, because I am a wimp and pitosin hurts. I know because my friends told me.
My plan is to not get to the hospital until I am past the point getting the epidural so I will be sure to skip it this time.
Anyway, my mother-in-law is babysitting my kids today, so that's why my post is so long. But, I really need to sleep since I didn't get much last night, because my baby WASN'T kicking me hard and keeping me awake. So I stayed up to worry instead. And pee. I stayed up to pee.
XOXO
Joce
I mean, not one you can see and hold and dress in cute clothes.
So, unless the baby comes tonight or tomorrow (which would really be hilarious because of how much Joe has worried that that might happen) (because Saturday is Opening Day of Shotgun Season, that's why) I think I will pull a Pamela and have a few shots of the baby-producing Castor Oil on Sunday before church.
Shots before church sounds fun to a 41 week pregnant lady, ok?
Ok. So I plan to miss the dinner afterward. And the dedication of the new blue chairs with padded seats for the fellowship hall. Which, is too bad because I appreciate a good padded folding chair.
But anyway, my doctor has been acting all concerned that I am overdue, or "postdates" as they like to say. (I am not concerned, in case you don't know that about me. I do not allow myself to become concerned until 42 weeks, or the baby gets distressed, or HUGE, not me, the baby- I have obviously come to terms with me being huge.) Anyway.
So I was at my pain-in-the-butt (but necessary, for once, because the baby hadn't moved for like 10 hours, and I was starting to feel the worry) Non-Stress Test and the nurse/midwife let it slip that my dear doctor is going on vacation next week. Ah. "Now I see," said the blind man, as he picked up his hammer and saw. My doctor is concerned because she wants me to have the baby before she arrives in a tropical climate, or goes to see family for Thanksgiving, whichever.
So anyway. I am getting sick of the over-concern about my postdates status and the constant NST's. They scheduled me for another one on Monday, because I would not agree to being given the pitosin on Monday. So they punish me by tying me to a machine for a half an hour. And that is the appropriate time-out for an almost thirty year old. So I know that's what it is- time out.
So, I will give myself the Castor Oil and try to avoid the drug-pushers' dose of pitosin and then the resulting epidural, because I am a wimp and pitosin hurts. I know because my friends told me.
My plan is to not get to the hospital until I am past the point getting the epidural so I will be sure to skip it this time.
Anyway, my mother-in-law is babysitting my kids today, so that's why my post is so long. But, I really need to sleep since I didn't get much last night, because my baby WASN'T kicking me hard and keeping me awake. So I stayed up to worry instead. And pee. I stayed up to pee.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, November 16, 2009
Vote over there on the right...
Please take a moment to guess the gender and date of birth for Baby Rebisz.
XOXO
Joce
XOXO
Joce
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Movie recommendations, and other things.
My librarian recommends good movies.
Twice, anyway. (She's two for two.)
1. August Rush
2. The Ultimate Gift
Now, I have passed these recommendations on to you. Enjoy.
Here is an un-recommendation:
Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium. The movie is fine until the last 5 minutes. Talk about anti-climactic. Joe and I looked at each other and said in unison- "That's it?"
And now, I must also recommend a book.
I am reading it in the morning like a devotional even though it's not really written as one.
"A Simple Christmas: A Faith-filled Guide to a Meaningful and Stress-free Christmas"
by Sharon Hanby-Robie.
So far I have been inspired to focus on making Christmas holy, and I also like her reference to Buy Nothing Christmas a Mennonite thing from Canada.
Well, I have enjoyed this brief sit-down with you, but now I must clean the playroom before SuperWHY ends.
XOXO
Joce
Twice, anyway. (She's two for two.)
1. August Rush
2. The Ultimate Gift
Now, I have passed these recommendations on to you. Enjoy.
Here is an un-recommendation:
Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium. The movie is fine until the last 5 minutes. Talk about anti-climactic. Joe and I looked at each other and said in unison- "That's it?"
And now, I must also recommend a book.
I am reading it in the morning like a devotional even though it's not really written as one.
"A Simple Christmas: A Faith-filled Guide to a Meaningful and Stress-free Christmas"
by Sharon Hanby-Robie.
So far I have been inspired to focus on making Christmas holy, and I also like her reference to Buy Nothing Christmas a Mennonite thing from Canada.
Well, I have enjoyed this brief sit-down with you, but now I must clean the playroom before SuperWHY ends.
XOXO
Joce
Sunday, November 08, 2009
I guess I'm considered famous....
http://thedailynewsonline.com/articles/2009/11/08/lifestyles/6089758.txt
I am so psyched to be in the paper. Giddy even. I think it's really really really fun to be in the paper. Let me be more specific- I really like being in the lifestyles section of the paper, there are other sections that would not be as fun. Pamela is famous too.
So, because I need to, I have been sitting down a lot lately. And, while I sit, I crochet. I have made 4 hats and 2 scarves. Now, I am going to try some stuffed animals. Brilyn loves the things filled with corn that you can put in microwave and snuggle for warmth, do you know what things I mean? Anyway, we have a grey fleecey one that she calls "Kitty." I am going to make her a crochet kitty and fill it with corn.
And then I'm going to make Cade a doggy in a like manner.
And then? Who knows. I may be done sitting by then. Oh wait, I will be doing a lot of sitting as I nurse a newborn. We'll see if I can crochet and feed a baby at the same time. Who knows?
XOXO
Joce
And, while you are reading articles, you may want to check this one out over at Kara's.
And also, check out this link on the swine flu.
Okay, now I'm done, and that's because I have nothing more to say, and also because my applesauce is done taking its hot water bath. Sheesh. I need a hot water bath. Do I really treat my applesauce better than I treat myself? LOL
I am so psyched to be in the paper. Giddy even. I think it's really really really fun to be in the paper. Let me be more specific- I really like being in the lifestyles section of the paper, there are other sections that would not be as fun. Pamela is famous too.
So, because I need to, I have been sitting down a lot lately. And, while I sit, I crochet. I have made 4 hats and 2 scarves. Now, I am going to try some stuffed animals. Brilyn loves the things filled with corn that you can put in microwave and snuggle for warmth, do you know what things I mean? Anyway, we have a grey fleecey one that she calls "Kitty." I am going to make her a crochet kitty and fill it with corn.
And then I'm going to make Cade a doggy in a like manner.
And then? Who knows. I may be done sitting by then. Oh wait, I will be doing a lot of sitting as I nurse a newborn. We'll see if I can crochet and feed a baby at the same time. Who knows?
XOXO
Joce
And, while you are reading articles, you may want to check this one out over at Kara's.
And also, check out this link on the swine flu.
Okay, now I'm done, and that's because I have nothing more to say, and also because my applesauce is done taking its hot water bath. Sheesh. I need a hot water bath. Do I really treat my applesauce better than I treat myself? LOL
Friday, November 06, 2009
New Family Member
It's a.....barn cat!
(Sorry I couldn't resist that title. It is my 200th post, so I wanted it to seem momentus.)
We have been adopted by a small gray wild cat.
He/she let us know we are her people today by leaving a decapitated, disemboweled mole on the floor in Clara's stall. This is a happy time, really, because we have had some trouble with the rodents chewing holes in our feed bags. That is a pain in the boot-ay.
I don't like cats, but wild ones that kill rodents in my barn are okay. I will be happy to reward such good behavior with some milk. But I won't like cats. I just wanted to make that clear. Because one time we had some cats that somebody gave us (as a gift, even, and I gave them away. And that's because I don't like cats. I don't like cat food, it is weird and stinks. I don't like kitty litter, it is weird and stinks. I don't like cat hair, it is itchy and stinks.
Anyway, my people are home, and my heartburn is reduced, so I am going to go lie down and maybe sleep?
XOXO
Joce
(Sorry I couldn't resist that title. It is my 200th post, so I wanted it to seem momentus.)
We have been adopted by a small gray wild cat.
He/she let us know we are her people today by leaving a decapitated, disemboweled mole on the floor in Clara's stall. This is a happy time, really, because we have had some trouble with the rodents chewing holes in our feed bags. That is a pain in the boot-ay.
I don't like cats, but wild ones that kill rodents in my barn are okay. I will be happy to reward such good behavior with some milk. But I won't like cats. I just wanted to make that clear. Because one time we had some cats that somebody gave us (as a gift, even, and I gave them away. And that's because I don't like cats. I don't like cat food, it is weird and stinks. I don't like kitty litter, it is weird and stinks. I don't like cat hair, it is itchy and stinks.
Anyway, my people are home, and my heartburn is reduced, so I am going to go lie down and maybe sleep?
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Pregnant lady craving...
complete with recipe.
I decided on Sunday that I wanted some Orange Julius. Really wanted some. So I found a recipe in a Hannah Swenson murder mystery novel (Peach Cobbler Murder) by Joanne Fluke, found the Dream Whip (I had never heard of this stuff before, it's by the pudding) in Super Wal*Mart and voila-
Fake Orange Julius
3 C Orange Juice
1 envelope Dream Whip (the kind that makes 2 cups)
1 package vanilla pudding (the kind that makes 2 cups)
3 more C O.J.
Blend 3 C o.j. with Dream Whip and pudding mix for 2 minutes.
Stir in 3 more C o.j. Yield: 2 quarts.
Serve over ice, or do like I do and blend the ice right in.
Update: August 2010
3 C OJ
8 ice cubes
1/4 C instant vamilla pudding
2 T instant whipped topping
We used to get Orange Julius at the Amsterdam Mall on Sunday afternoons. They were yummy then and they are yummy now. And, look at that- a serving of fruit. LOL. They must be good for you.
XOXO
Joce
PS This just in from field correspondent Brilyn- "SLURRRRRRRRP. This stuff is soooooo good."
I decided on Sunday that I wanted some Orange Julius. Really wanted some. So I found a recipe in a Hannah Swenson murder mystery novel (Peach Cobbler Murder) by Joanne Fluke, found the Dream Whip (I had never heard of this stuff before, it's by the pudding) in Super Wal*Mart and voila-
Fake Orange Julius
3 C Orange Juice
1 envelope Dream Whip (the kind that makes 2 cups)
1 package vanilla pudding (the kind that makes 2 cups)
3 more C O.J.
Blend 3 C o.j. with Dream Whip and pudding mix for 2 minutes.
Stir in 3 more C o.j. Yield: 2 quarts.
Serve over ice, or do like I do and blend the ice right in.
Update: August 2010
3 C OJ
8 ice cubes
1/4 C instant vamilla pudding
2 T instant whipped topping
We used to get Orange Julius at the Amsterdam Mall on Sunday afternoons. They were yummy then and they are yummy now. And, look at that- a serving of fruit. LOL. They must be good for you.
XOXO
Joce
PS This just in from field correspondent Brilyn- "SLURRRRRRRRP. This stuff is soooooo good."
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Things to do with milk...
Because I own a cow, I have a lot of milk to deal with on a regular basis.
And I get tired of mozzarella and ricotta. So here is a brainstormed list of some of the other relatively useful and easy things I sometimes remember to do with the milk.
Lemon cheese
Cheddar cheese curds
Yogurt
Kefir
Cream cheese
Evaporated milk
Pudding
Hot chocolate in large quantities
Ice cream
I would like to share a new chocolate pudding recipe I developed yesterday.
Rich Chocolate-Almond Pudding
In a medium saucepan, combine:
1 C raw sugar
1 C dutch cocoa
1/4 C corn starch
Add 5 cups milk, turn heat on medium/low.
Add 2 beaten eggs by whisking in a steady stream.
Heat till bubbly and thickened, stirring almost constantly, until you can feel the spoon dragging on the bottom. Maybe 5 minutes?
Remove from heat, add 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon almond extract. Pour into serving bowl to set, and serve warm or cold with fluffywhip (aka real whipped cream).
Kids will eat it, but I really made
XOXO
Joce
it for me.
And I get tired of mozzarella and ricotta. So here is a brainstormed list of some of the other relatively useful and easy things I sometimes remember to do with the milk.
Lemon cheese
Cheddar cheese curds
Yogurt
Kefir
Cream cheese
Evaporated milk
Pudding
Hot chocolate in large quantities
Ice cream
I would like to share a new chocolate pudding recipe I developed yesterday.
Rich Chocolate-Almond Pudding
In a medium saucepan, combine:
1 C raw sugar
1 C dutch cocoa
1/4 C corn starch
Add 5 cups milk, turn heat on medium/low.
Add 2 beaten eggs by whisking in a steady stream.
Heat till bubbly and thickened, stirring almost constantly, until you can feel the spoon dragging on the bottom. Maybe 5 minutes?
Remove from heat, add 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon almond extract. Pour into serving bowl to set, and serve warm or cold with fluffywhip (aka real whipped cream).
Kids will eat it, but I really made
XOXO
Joce
it for me.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Cream Cheese Recipe
I believe I have perfected my cream cheese recipe:
Recipe works with up to 2 gallons of milk.
In a stainless steel pan, bring milk (nice fatty milk- add a little extra cream if you have it) to 70 F.
Mix in 1/8 t mesophilic A and 1/8 t mesophilic M culture powder, thoroughly, stirring for about 2 minutes.
Add 1/4 rennet tablet dissolved in 1/4 C cool tap water, stirring in a plunging motion for about 15 seconds.
Let it set at 70 degrees for 24 hours. I keep it in my living room on top of my entertainment center- my woodstove keeps it at about 70 degrees there.
Cut curds into 1 inch cubes, pour into fine cheesecloth (butter muslin)-lined colander. Make a bag by tying the corners of the cheesecloth together, and let the cheese hang until it stops dripping, about 6 hours.
Salt to taste, mix well, and store in fridge for up to a week.
This is a cultured, raw milk cheese. Very good for you.
Yum.
XOXO
Joce
Recipe works with up to 2 gallons of milk.
In a stainless steel pan, bring milk (nice fatty milk- add a little extra cream if you have it) to 70 F.
Mix in 1/8 t mesophilic A and 1/8 t mesophilic M culture powder, thoroughly, stirring for about 2 minutes.
Add 1/4 rennet tablet dissolved in 1/4 C cool tap water, stirring in a plunging motion for about 15 seconds.
Let it set at 70 degrees for 24 hours. I keep it in my living room on top of my entertainment center- my woodstove keeps it at about 70 degrees there.
Cut curds into 1 inch cubes, pour into fine cheesecloth (butter muslin)-lined colander. Make a bag by tying the corners of the cheesecloth together, and let the cheese hang until it stops dripping, about 6 hours.
Salt to taste, mix well, and store in fridge for up to a week.
This is a cultured, raw milk cheese. Very good for you.
Yum.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, October 19, 2009
Time marches on...
Sister cries out, from her baby bed. Brother runs in with feathers on his head. Mama's in her room learnin how to sew. Daddy's drinkin beer listenen to the radio. Hank Williams sings Kaw-Liga and Dear John. Time marches on, time marches on.
Sister's using rouge and clear complection soap. Brother's wearin beads and he smokes alot of dope. Mama is depressed barely makes a sound. Daddy's got a girlfriend in another town. Bob Dylan sings like a Rolling Stone. Time marches on, time marches on.
South moves north, North moves south. A star is born, a star burns out. The only thing that stays the same is everything changes, everything changes.
Sister calls herself a sexy grandma. Brother's on a diet for high cholesterol. Mama's out of touch with reality. Daddy's in the ground beneath the maple tree. As the Angles sing an old Hank Williams song. Time marches on, time marches on. Time marches on, time marches on. Time marches on. Time marches on.
Sister's using rouge and clear complection soap. Brother's wearin beads and he smokes alot of dope. Mama is depressed barely makes a sound. Daddy's got a girlfriend in another town. Bob Dylan sings like a Rolling Stone. Time marches on, time marches on.
South moves north, North moves south. A star is born, a star burns out. The only thing that stays the same is everything changes, everything changes.
Sister calls herself a sexy grandma. Brother's on a diet for high cholesterol. Mama's out of touch with reality. Daddy's in the ground beneath the maple tree. As the Angles sing an old Hank Williams song. Time marches on, time marches on. Time marches on, time marches on. Time marches on. Time marches on.
Friday, October 16, 2009
You need some of this pumpkin bread.
It'll cure what ails you.
Jocelyn's Sourdough Pumpkin Bread
Mix together:
2 C sourdough starter
1/2 C sugar
1 t vanilla
3 eggs
1/2 C milk
1/2 C oil
16 oz. pumpkin puree
Sift together:
2 C flour
1 C vanilla pudding mix
1 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
1/2 t cinnamon
1/2 t nutmeg
1/2 t ginger
1/2 t allspice
1/2 t cloves
Mix sifted dry ingredients into the sourdough mixture until well blended, but not smooth.
Pour into two greased loaf pans and bake at 325 for 50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Enjoy the pumpkin-y goodness as the bread bakes and also when you get to finally eat it.
XOXO
Joce
Jocelyn's Sourdough Pumpkin Bread
Mix together:
2 C sourdough starter
1/2 C sugar
1 t vanilla
3 eggs
1/2 C milk
1/2 C oil
16 oz. pumpkin puree
Sift together:
2 C flour
1 C vanilla pudding mix
1 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
1/2 t cinnamon
1/2 t nutmeg
1/2 t ginger
1/2 t allspice
1/2 t cloves
Mix sifted dry ingredients into the sourdough mixture until well blended, but not smooth.
Pour into two greased loaf pans and bake at 325 for 50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Enjoy the pumpkin-y goodness as the bread bakes and also when you get to finally eat it.
XOXO
Joce
Thursday, October 15, 2009
What I've been up to....
These are not necessarily in chronological order.
1. I am proud to announce that my white bread took 1st place, my strawberry preserves took 2nd place, and my molasses cookies took 3rd at the Genesee Country Village Agricultural Society Fair.
2. We butchered pig on Columbus Day- it was a successful endeavor.
3. Our party was great. Hanna won the apple recipe with her apple cake recipe which she should post in her comments here, and Kara came in second with a caramel apple pie, the recipe for which she should post on her blog and linky up here. They both received prize bags with a loaf of the aforementioned prizewinning white bread, a jar of the preserves, and a bottle each of strawberry and peach wine.
4. We bought a new-to-us mini van. A 2005 Toyota Sienna. This is a nice little story about trusting God and waiting on the Lord, so I will share it. Last year, we wanted a mini van. So we tried to sell our Jeep. No one wanted to buy the Jeep. We found a nice little Honda Odyssey in our price range- still no one wanted to buy our Jeep. Now, we could have erred on the side of excess and bought the van anyway. But, instead, we took it as God saying, "wait." And so we did. A couple of weeks ago, we thought that it might be time for us to have a van now that our family is about to expand. We put our Jeep on craigslist, sold it almost immediately, and found a mini on craigslist that we were able to buy the same day! And- they that wait upon Lord shall have power doors, leather interior, and heated seats.
5. MOPS convention. It was great, but I was grumpy from sitting on my butt for long periods of time and then walking like four miles to get from place to place INSIDE the resort. Yes, resort. That was cool. It was the Gaylord Opryland, and I would recommend it. Highly.
And, God had things to say to me even through my airplane induced swollenlegandfeet grump I had on.
6. Hats. I have crocheted two super cute earflap hats for my kids. Check out the links section here and go to the earflap hat pattern link and see the hat pattern I used. I will post pics of my own at a later date.
7. We started using our woodstove in the last week. I really love our woodstove. Oh! And remember all the smoke troubles we had last year? Well, we added about 8 feet of pipe to the roof and so far, so good. We ordered 7 cords of wood, and have seven more on the way.
8. Our first was this week- October 11th. I pulled all the onions and peppers and pumpkins that were left in the garden, and still have beets, parsnips, carrots, broccoli, and brussel sprouts out there. I'll let you know how those fair.
9. And last night, I did a cheesemaking workshop at the LeRoy Library- and it was awesome! We made lemon cheese and mozz.
10. I forgot my best friend's birthday- twice. How do you even do that? Well, her birthday was on Monday and I forgot that, so she said if it would make me feel better I could pretend that Friday was her birthday. Well, today's Thursday and I so have not sent out a card or gift yet. S0 I suck. So.....sorry Kara that I suck as a BFF.
Well, that's all I can think of for now, I may add to this post as I think of things of interest.
XOXO
Joce
PS I am looking for two things: local sweet potatoes, and a cast iron tea kettle to put on my woodstove to humidify my home.
1. I am proud to announce that my white bread took 1st place, my strawberry preserves took 2nd place, and my molasses cookies took 3rd at the Genesee Country Village Agricultural Society Fair.
2. We butchered pig on Columbus Day- it was a successful endeavor.
3. Our party was great. Hanna won the apple recipe with her apple cake recipe which she should post in her comments here, and Kara came in second with a caramel apple pie, the recipe for which she should post on her blog and linky up here. They both received prize bags with a loaf of the aforementioned prizewinning white bread, a jar of the preserves, and a bottle each of strawberry and peach wine.
4. We bought a new-to-us mini van. A 2005 Toyota Sienna. This is a nice little story about trusting God and waiting on the Lord, so I will share it. Last year, we wanted a mini van. So we tried to sell our Jeep. No one wanted to buy the Jeep. We found a nice little Honda Odyssey in our price range- still no one wanted to buy our Jeep. Now, we could have erred on the side of excess and bought the van anyway. But, instead, we took it as God saying, "wait." And so we did. A couple of weeks ago, we thought that it might be time for us to have a van now that our family is about to expand. We put our Jeep on craigslist, sold it almost immediately, and found a mini on craigslist that we were able to buy the same day! And- they that wait upon Lord shall have power doors, leather interior, and heated seats.
5. MOPS convention. It was great, but I was grumpy from sitting on my butt for long periods of time and then walking like four miles to get from place to place INSIDE the resort. Yes, resort. That was cool. It was the Gaylord Opryland, and I would recommend it. Highly.
And, God had things to say to me even through my airplane induced swollenlegandfeet grump I had on.
6. Hats. I have crocheted two super cute earflap hats for my kids. Check out the links section here and go to the earflap hat pattern link and see the hat pattern I used. I will post pics of my own at a later date.
7. We started using our woodstove in the last week. I really love our woodstove. Oh! And remember all the smoke troubles we had last year? Well, we added about 8 feet of pipe to the roof and so far, so good. We ordered 7 cords of wood, and have seven more on the way.
8. Our first was this week- October 11th. I pulled all the onions and peppers and pumpkins that were left in the garden, and still have beets, parsnips, carrots, broccoli, and brussel sprouts out there. I'll let you know how those fair.
9. And last night, I did a cheesemaking workshop at the LeRoy Library- and it was awesome! We made lemon cheese and mozz.
10. I forgot my best friend's birthday- twice. How do you even do that? Well, her birthday was on Monday and I forgot that, so she said if it would make me feel better I could pretend that Friday was her birthday. Well, today's Thursday and I so have not sent out a card or gift yet. S0 I suck. So.....sorry Kara that I suck as a BFF.
Well, that's all I can think of for now, I may add to this post as I think of things of interest.
XOXO
Joce
PS I am looking for two things: local sweet potatoes, and a cast iron tea kettle to put on my woodstove to humidify my home.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Winds-day, or a rather blustery day today.
I need to have a pity party, so consider yourself warned. There is no pep here today. Not being able to drink these last 7 months has really sucked. There have just been too many days when I really c ould use a drink or 7, and I can have what...2 ounces of red wine? It's not cutting it folks. Not that I need alcohol to drown out my sorrow, but it sure would be helpful today.
It's my mom's birthday. I am just sad today. Tears are just behind my eyeballs every second. It's giving me a headache.
I have a plan though- we are having a birthday party today. With from-a-box Funfetti cake complete with from-a-can pink vanilla Funfetti frosting along with some from-a-carton peanut butter swirl vanilla ice cream. Brilyn helped me shop yesterday. My kids have a great attitude about celebrating Gramma Janet's birthday even though she can't come because she's in heaven. Their joy at celebrating her birthday is helpful in keeping me from wallowing in tears all day.
But my eyes are still sad and want to cry.
I also have a sucky job today.
My brother gave me my mom's cell phone (that's a super secret, don't ask for the number, I don't like cell phones ( I think they're the devil), but since I could have a baby at any second, I thought it was a good idea, also, my brother and dad and sister can call me from their cell phones for free, so I took the cell phone.) to use and guess what? Her voice is still in there. She says, "You have reached Janet's cell phone," or something like that. And so I have the responsibility of changing that message. And I don't want to. So I said I would do it the night of her birthday, just in case anyone wanted to call it one last time and hear her voice during the day.
I need a few shots to be able to do that I think. And The Maker's Mark is off limits to me.
Even Solomon knows:
Proverbs 31:4-6
"It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts."
So, I will make a cake and eat some ice cream and make my morning coffee like this:
4 ice cubes
1 cup half and half
2 t instant coffee
2 t dutch cocoa
2 t raw sugar
1 t vanilla
generous amount of Irish Cream
Blended till smooth.
Talk about a slightly different take on becoming a Proverbs 31 woman. LOL. Ooops- that's a joke and I am supposed to be having a pity party. Well, a bit of humor is probably a good thing today, even if it doesn't fit the theme.
Well, I feel a bit better after having taken the time to give full awareness to just how sad I am.
XOXO
Joce
It's my mom's birthday. I am just sad today. Tears are just behind my eyeballs every second. It's giving me a headache.
I have a plan though- we are having a birthday party today. With from-a-box Funfetti cake complete with from-a-can pink vanilla Funfetti frosting along with some from-a-carton peanut butter swirl vanilla ice cream. Brilyn helped me shop yesterday. My kids have a great attitude about celebrating Gramma Janet's birthday even though she can't come because she's in heaven. Their joy at celebrating her birthday is helpful in keeping me from wallowing in tears all day.
But my eyes are still sad and want to cry.
I also have a sucky job today.
My brother gave me my mom's cell phone (that's a super secret, don't ask for the number, I don't like cell phones ( I think they're the devil), but since I could have a baby at any second, I thought it was a good idea, also, my brother and dad and sister can call me from their cell phones for free, so I took the cell phone.) to use and guess what? Her voice is still in there. She says, "You have reached Janet's cell phone," or something like that. And so I have the responsibility of changing that message. And I don't want to. So I said I would do it the night of her birthday, just in case anyone wanted to call it one last time and hear her voice during the day.
I need a few shots to be able to do that I think. And The Maker's Mark is off limits to me.
Even Solomon knows:
Proverbs 31:4-6
"It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts."
So, I will make a cake and eat some ice cream and make my morning coffee like this:
4 ice cubes
1 cup half and half
2 t instant coffee
2 t dutch cocoa
2 t raw sugar
1 t vanilla
generous amount of Irish Cream
Blended till smooth.
Talk about a slightly different take on becoming a Proverbs 31 woman. LOL. Ooops- that's a joke and I am supposed to be having a pity party. Well, a bit of humor is probably a good thing today, even if it doesn't fit the theme.
Well, I feel a bit better after having taken the time to give full awareness to just how sad I am.
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Cheeses loves me
Here's a glimpse into the way my mind works.
Joe was reading a bedtime Bible story to our dear sweet babies.
As he read, this is what I heard, "We know God loves us because He gave us cheeses."
Amen.
I am all about the cheeses. Especially sharp cheddar, that's how we know He loves us a LOT.
And one more mildly entertaining story. Last night was open house at Jackson School where Joe works as a fourth grade teacher on the third floor.
One of the parents came up to Joe and told him this story:
The Boy Scouts meet at the school at night in the art room in the basement. The scout leader was talking about some serious topic and mentioned the "big guy upstairs." One of the second graders thought a moment, raised his hand, and asked, "Do you mean Mr. Rebisz?"
For clarification, Joe is 6'6'', so he really does qualify for the position of big guy upstairs if you are in the art room at Jackson. LOL.
Well, I just entered the Agricultural Fair at the Genesee Country Museum. I will enter my white bread and some strawberry jam. I will let you know how I do. I hope to get first with my bread this year, I took second last year.
My kids really would like to have my attention now, so I should go.
XOXO
Joce
Joe was reading a bedtime Bible story to our dear sweet babies.
As he read, this is what I heard, "We know God loves us because He gave us cheeses."
Amen.
I am all about the cheeses. Especially sharp cheddar, that's how we know He loves us a LOT.
And one more mildly entertaining story. Last night was open house at Jackson School where Joe works as a fourth grade teacher on the third floor.
One of the parents came up to Joe and told him this story:
The Boy Scouts meet at the school at night in the art room in the basement. The scout leader was talking about some serious topic and mentioned the "big guy upstairs." One of the second graders thought a moment, raised his hand, and asked, "Do you mean Mr. Rebisz?"
For clarification, Joe is 6'6'', so he really does qualify for the position of big guy upstairs if you are in the art room at Jackson. LOL.
Well, I just entered the Agricultural Fair at the Genesee Country Museum. I will enter my white bread and some strawberry jam. I will let you know how I do. I hope to get first with my bread this year, I took second last year.
My kids really would like to have my attention now, so I should go.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, September 21, 2009
Pumpkin pie and my kids like yogurt
Pumpkin Pie:I cannot remember if I posted this recipe before, if not- here goes.
1 C sugar
1/2 t salt
1/2 t cinnamon
1/2 t nutmeg
1/2 t ginger
1/2 t allspice
1/2 t cloves
1 1/2 C pumpkin puree
1 2/3 C evaporated milk
1/2 t vanilla
2 eggs
Preheat oven to 425 F.
Combine all ingredients, pour into pie shell. Bake at 425 F for 15 minutes, then lower oven temperature to 350 F. Continue to bake for another 40 minutes, until pie is firm.
This is the best pumpkin pie I have ever had.
Yogurt, the easy way:
In a pint jar, put a glop of store-bought yogurt, then fill the jar with fresh milk (about 88 degrees). Keep it in your oven with the light on, and turn your oven a couple times if you need to, in order to keep the yogurt at around 90 degrees. Keep it in there for 12 hours.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tillaboro Orchard
2nd Annual
Apple Festival
2nd Annual
Apple Festival
You are cordially invited to attend our
2nd Annual Apple Festival
on Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 at @ 5:00 p.m.
Things to do:
· Hay rides
· Camping
· Cider Pressing
· Bobbing for apples
· Apple Recipe Judging
· Bonfire
· Pumpkin Painting
· Wiffle Ball
· Yard games of all kinds
What to bring:
· Snack to pass
· Your best apple confection for Apple Recipe Judging
· Tent or camper
· BYOB
· Your favorite yard game
· Warm comfy clothing
· An extra shirt (and a towel?) if you plan to win at bobbing for apples
· Hay rides
· Camping
· Cider Pressing
· Bobbing for apples
· Apple Recipe Judging
· Bonfire
· Pumpkin Painting
· Wiffle Ball
· Yard games of all kinds
What to bring:
· Snack to pass
· Your best apple confection for Apple Recipe Judging
· Tent or camper
· BYOB
· Your favorite yard game
· Warm comfy clothing
· An extra shirt (and a towel?) if you plan to win at bobbing for apples
Apple cider, mulled cider, mulled cider as an adult beverage, wine, hot coffee and cocoa, and AWESOME contest prizes will be provided.
R.S.V.P. right here.
R.S.V.P. right here.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Egg Souffle
I made this for my mom a while back, and I have had a hard time finding the recipe again. It was in the D and C and they make you pay cash money to read their archives. But today I got lucky and found it at it's owner's site.
This is good food:
Egg SouffléFrom Springdale Farm Bed & Breakfast
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
9 large eggs½ cup sour cream
½ cup whole milk1 teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Put butter in the bottom of an 8-inch-round soufflé dish that is at least 4 inches tall. Place dish in preheating oven for a few minutes, until butter is melted. Remove from oven. In a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat eggs, sour cream, milk and salt together until eggs are light in color, 1 to 2 minutes. Pour egg mixture into dish. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until the soufflé is full, high and fluffy. Serve immediate.Makes 4 servings.
Today I will use kefir instead of sour cream because that is my only cultured milk in the house at this time.
Go to this site for the original article.
xoxo
Joce
This is good food:
Egg SouffléFrom Springdale Farm Bed & Breakfast
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
9 large eggs½ cup sour cream
½ cup whole milk1 teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Put butter in the bottom of an 8-inch-round soufflé dish that is at least 4 inches tall. Place dish in preheating oven for a few minutes, until butter is melted. Remove from oven. In a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat eggs, sour cream, milk and salt together until eggs are light in color, 1 to 2 minutes. Pour egg mixture into dish. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until the soufflé is full, high and fluffy. Serve immediate.Makes 4 servings.
Today I will use kefir instead of sour cream because that is my only cultured milk in the house at this time.
Go to this site for the original article.
xoxo
Joce
Friday, August 14, 2009
Shehadababyit'saboy!
Clara delivered her calf last night at right around 10:00.
Joe took about four hundred pictures, hugged me, and said, "We're parents!" And I thought, "Hmmm, was he this excited when I pushed Brilyn and Cade out?"
I'd like to think that he must have been. LOL.
The kids were in bed when the calf was born, so I sent them out to see it right after breakfast this morning.
Brilyn came running back to the house to let me know that, "Cade is in the pasture! Isn't the fence on? He's hugging the baby!"
So, I hurry (not run, exactly) out to see what's going on, and there is Cade all spooned up to the baby, and Clara, calmly chewing her cud next to them. I am sad to say that I forgot my camera, and I did not feel comfortable "hurrying" back to the house to get it while Cade snuggled the newborn next to it's thousand pound mama.
I told my boy, "Cade, it's dangerous to go in the pasture with Clara when mommy is not outside to watch you."
And he told me, "Nuggle baby dangerish?"
I love that boy.
So, here are some pics:
Last night
This morning
Oh, and, apparently, Brilyn got ahold of the camera the other day. Here are the first fruits of her photographic career:
Oh, and, apparently, Brilyn got ahold of the camera the other day. Here are the first fruits of her photographic career:
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Here comes the baby...
We are holding a late-night vigil waiting for Clara's baby to arrive. (Yes, quarter after nine is late-night for us).
So far, we have a first bag of waters and front feet.
See this article for more info. If you want, feel free to come over to watch.
XOXO
Joce
So far, we have a first bag of waters and front feet.
See this article for more info. If you want, feel free to come over to watch.
XOXO
Joce
Monday, August 10, 2009
Eat your zucchini... part 3
Okay. Here is the final installment of the zucchini trilogy.
And, I believe I saved the best for last.
Zucchini pickles:
Ingredients
16 cups fresh zucchini, sliced
4 cups onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup canning or pickling salt
4 cups white vinegar (5%)
2 cups sugar
4 tbsp mustard seed
2 tbsp celery seed
2 tsp ground turmeric ( I used curry powder, because I don't have any turmeric)
Directions
Step 1 - Brining
Cover zucchini and onion slices with 1 inch of water and salt. Let it stand 2 hours.
Step 2 - Drain
Drain (and discard) the liquids from the zucchini and onions.
Step 3 - Mix the spices, vinegar and heat
Combine the
4 cups white vinegar (5%)
2 cups sugar
4 tbsp mustard seed
2 tbsp celery seed
2 tsp ground turmeric
in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Step 4 - Add the zucchini and onions
Add the zucchini and onions. Simmer 5 minutes.
Step 5 - Fill the canning jars
Fill the jars with zucchini/onion mixture and pickling solution, leaving 1/2-inch of headspace.
Adjust lids and rings snugly.
Step 6 - Process in a water bath canner 15 minutes.
16 cups fresh zucchini, sliced
4 cups onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup canning or pickling salt
4 cups white vinegar (5%)
2 cups sugar
4 tbsp mustard seed
2 tbsp celery seed
2 tsp ground turmeric ( I used curry powder, because I don't have any turmeric)
Directions
Step 1 - Brining
Cover zucchini and onion slices with 1 inch of water and salt. Let it stand 2 hours.
Step 2 - Drain
Drain (and discard) the liquids from the zucchini and onions.
Step 3 - Mix the spices, vinegar and heat
Combine the
4 cups white vinegar (5%)
2 cups sugar
4 tbsp mustard seed
2 tbsp celery seed
2 tsp ground turmeric
in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Step 4 - Add the zucchini and onions
Add the zucchini and onions. Simmer 5 minutes.
Step 5 - Fill the canning jars
Fill the jars with zucchini/onion mixture and pickling solution, leaving 1/2-inch of headspace.
Adjust lids and rings snugly.
Step 6 - Process in a water bath canner 15 minutes.
Yummy.
So, my friend Hanna let me borrow a book called Birthing from Within. It is weird. But interesting and I am learning from it.
Anyway, she (the author) recommends doing some birth art to get your psyche ready for pregnancy and birth. I liked the idea and did some last night. I picked the exercise where you are supposed to draw an animal that you think exemplifies excellent pregnancy/birthing/mothering/etc. I chose a Clara, because she is so sweet and calm and her body has expanded easily to accomodate baby, and she has a lovely mammary system, etc. My cow was okay. It didn't have a lot of oomph. The proportions weren't quite right. You could tell that somehow, my heart wasn't in it.
And then, today, I drew the right picture. It is not of a cow, but it is of a farm animal with which I am even more familiar. The game hen. (Game chickens are the kind traditionally raised for cockfighting.) And not just any game hen, but a broody one. Which is the chicken equivalent of pregnant woman. And this picture? Has OOOMPH. It's me, baby. I don't have a scanner, so I can't show you my drawing. But I did find a pic online of the animal of my inspiration.
I don't think I can say much more about how I feel about being pregnant. It's all right there, in full color.
For those of you who really cannot interpret animal thoughts and feelings just by looking- I'll add a quote. "Vacate the premises immediately. Failure to do so will result in your immediate annihilation."
I don't feel murderous all the time, but I do get me hackles up pretty quickly if someone doesn't respect my physical, emotional, or spiritual space.
And then, this evening I did some more birth art. Because I like it. I put a big piece of paper on the floor and had some fun with my kids' crayons.
I think it is good for me. I should keep doing it.
But anyway.
I am going to go eat some ice cream. And read the book about birthing from within. (I can't help but think to myself, where the heck else are you going to birth from? But I guess the author's point is that a lot of women allow others to dictate their pregnancy and birth, and so that is kind of like Birthing from Elsewhere. But the title still makes me smirk.)
XOXO
Joce
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Battling zucchini... Round 2
Now let's take some zucchini and make it think it is eggplant, because that is good.
Zucchini Parmesan:
Thinly slice enough zucchini to fill your favorite big frying pan.
In olive oil, saute the zucchini, one onion cut the way you like it (I food processed it along with the garlic) and one clove of garlic until zucchini is tender.
Spoon, dump, or shake the contents of the pan into a 9X13 pan, add some nice thick tomato sauce, and smother with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake at 350 until the cheese is lightly browned.
I like this dish served with grilled Italian sausage. I especially like it the next day, it warmed up really well.
I am proud of this dish because:
I grew the zucchini, I bought the onion from nice kids who grew it in Elba, I bought the garlic from a slightly different-from-me lady who grew it organically in Stafford, the olive oil is not local, sorry, I made the mozzarella from milk from my own sweet cow, and the parmesan is from Cutter's which is near here somewhere. I am happy with my ingredients. And I look forward to making next summer and being able to say that the sausage is made from local Pig. (Which is what we call our fat hog.)
And, now for the interesting stuff- hold on......here it is..... I think Clara will have had her baby by tomorrow night. She seems to be bagging up and has some evidence of the birth canal becoming lubricated for the upcoming event. She's a nice cow, I tried to phrase that delicately.
Well, the supper is cooked, and the natives are restless. Must go now.
One seems to "Need to go PEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!."
XOXO
Joce
Zucchini Parmesan:
Thinly slice enough zucchini to fill your favorite big frying pan.
In olive oil, saute the zucchini, one onion cut the way you like it (I food processed it along with the garlic) and one clove of garlic until zucchini is tender.
Spoon, dump, or shake the contents of the pan into a 9X13 pan, add some nice thick tomato sauce, and smother with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake at 350 until the cheese is lightly browned.
I like this dish served with grilled Italian sausage. I especially like it the next day, it warmed up really well.
I am proud of this dish because:
I grew the zucchini, I bought the onion from nice kids who grew it in Elba, I bought the garlic from a slightly different-from-me lady who grew it organically in Stafford, the olive oil is not local, sorry, I made the mozzarella from milk from my own sweet cow, and the parmesan is from Cutter's which is near here somewhere. I am happy with my ingredients. And I look forward to making next summer and being able to say that the sausage is made from local Pig. (Which is what we call our fat hog.)
And, now for the interesting stuff- hold on......here it is..... I think Clara will have had her baby by tomorrow night. She seems to be bagging up and has some evidence of the birth canal becoming lubricated for the upcoming event. She's a nice cow, I tried to phrase that delicately.
Well, the supper is cooked, and the natives are restless. Must go now.
One seems to "Need to go PEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!."
XOXO
Joce
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Battling the overabundant zucchini...Part I
Zucchini. It's not all that delicious to me, but it is so easy to grow. And the Animal Vegetable Miracle lady made funny jokes about how much zucchini can grow in one person's garden. So I put in a few plants, and by a few, I think I mean five. That's not too many. Or so I thought. Luckily, Pig really enjoys some raw, gargantuan zucchini in the double digit poundage. And, I have also found a few ways to get people (and by that I mean me) to eat it.
No zucchini popover here.
And now for today's first use of zucchini.
This one sounds a little crazy, and I realize this. So, I am placing a rule on comments that you can't say how you think it would taste. If you want to comment on this recipe, you must try it.
Zucchini Crisp
I don't measure much, so keep that in mind.
Peel some zucchini and chop it the way you would chop apples for a crisp. I use 1/2 inch square pieces.
Keep chopping until you have filled your 8X8 Pyrex just over half way full.
Pour a 1/2 cup lemon juice over the zucchini. Sprinkle 1/2 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon nutmeg over the zucchini. You have now convinced the zucchini that it is apples.
Now, you can use your favorite crisp topping. I used 1 cup flour, 1 cup oats, 1 cup brown sugar, sifted together, and cut in with 1 stick of butter.
Bake at 375 for a half an hour, and, voila!, you have zucchini-thinks-its-apples crisp.
Here it is:
And for tomorrow...come back to see what kind of identity confusion I can inflict on the poor zucchini as a main dish.
And, while I'm waiting for the pictures to upload...I have included a pic of one, ah, incident that occured while we were painting the floor of the playroom. I will show you pics of that as soon as we get the wall thingys back on. But anyway, this pic? Is a mix of a dad who wasn't thinking about the two year old who wasn't thinking either.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Start now
So we will again be giving only hand-made gifts for Christmas this year. A lucky few will receive a jar of mulberry preserves. The rest will get by on some peach, strawberry, and/or cherry wine. And now, added to the list, is blueberry syrup. My sister gave me some store-bought blueberry syrup a few years ago with some super-de-duper waffle mix. I really enjoyed that gift, so I did my dangedest to recreate the syrup she had given me. (I'll work on the golden waffle mix later). Here's the recipe:
7 cups pureed blueberries
2 cups water
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Combine and bring to a boil- hold it for 5 minutes or so.
4 cups water
5 cups sugar
Combine and bring to boil- hold until about 219 degrees.
Combine the two syrups, bring to a boil and hold for 1 minute.
Hot water process for 30 minutes.
We had it on pancakes this morning- it will be equally as delicious on waffles or crepes or your breakfast carb of choice.
XOXO
Joce
I am going to go assist my hubby in the cutting in of the playroom paint job, (don't worry, the window is open) and then go take a nap.
7 cups pureed blueberries
2 cups water
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Combine and bring to a boil- hold it for 5 minutes or so.
4 cups water
5 cups sugar
Combine and bring to boil- hold until about 219 degrees.
Combine the two syrups, bring to a boil and hold for 1 minute.
Hot water process for 30 minutes.
We had it on pancakes this morning- it will be equally as delicious on waffles or crepes or your breakfast carb of choice.
XOXO
Joce
I am going to go assist my hubby in the cutting in of the playroom paint job, (don't worry, the window is open) and then go take a nap.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Today we picked 3 1/3 lbs. of blueberries at Pat's, and then it was off to the LeRoy farmer party (aka farmer's market) where we bought 1 fudge nut cookie, 1 head of organic garlic, 1 big sweet onion, 1 quart smaller cooking onions, 3 bars of Charleen's soap, (Egyptian spice w/ clay- good for shaving, Lavender- good for smelling, and cucumber mint w/corn meal-good for scrubbing), and 2 peaches from the Watt's (where we bought the peaches for last year's wine for those of you who know about that).
We had a good time with that.
And, now that I have my bathing suit on, the sunshine has vamoosed.
So Brilyn and I are going to eat cake and play My Little Pony Memory.
See ya.
XOXO
Joce
We had a good time with that.
And, now that I have my bathing suit on, the sunshine has vamoosed.
So Brilyn and I are going to eat cake and play My Little Pony Memory.
See ya.
XOXO
Joce
Friday, July 31, 2009
Try this
So, a friend brought me some chocolate pudding. Which is good. But, I really should be eating yogurt, not pudding. So? I mixed it half chocolate pudding, half plain yogurt, and accidently made up a practically gourmet treat. It is so so good.
So, you should try it.
And, I made mulberry preserves. Mulberries are a LOT of work. But, I think, now that the work is done, that it was worth it. I have never had any jams, jellies, or preserves with such a rich flavor. Basic recipe: 1 cup fruit, 1 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice. And a new trick: how to tell when it's jam- put a teaspoon of fruity stuff in question on a plate, and when cool enough, run your finger through it. If it doesn't run back together, but stays in two blobs, its done!
That trick worked for me. Quite well. Plus, you get to lick some jam (or almost jam) off your finger.
XOXO
Joce
So, you should try it.
And, I made mulberry preserves. Mulberries are a LOT of work. But, I think, now that the work is done, that it was worth it. I have never had any jams, jellies, or preserves with such a rich flavor. Basic recipe: 1 cup fruit, 1 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice. And a new trick: how to tell when it's jam- put a teaspoon of fruity stuff in question on a plate, and when cool enough, run your finger through it. If it doesn't run back together, but stays in two blobs, its done!
That trick worked for me. Quite well. Plus, you get to lick some jam (or almost jam) off your finger.
XOXO
Joce
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Just in case...
Just in case the baby in my belly is a boy, I am going to need some boys' names.
So I don't end up with a Justin Case, who is a real person in Oppenheim, NY.
Rules: I need boys' names that are cool like Cade, but not trendy like Caden, Braden, or Jaden. Okay?
Go.
Thanks.
XOXO
Joce
So I don't end up with a Justin Case, who is a real person in Oppenheim, NY.
Rules: I need boys' names that are cool like Cade, but not trendy like Caden, Braden, or Jaden. Okay?
Go.
Thanks.
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Two pictures and two precious gifts
My mom passed into glory one week ago today.
I was very happy to find this picture in my camera. It was taken a few weeks ago, the last time she was able to visit. See previous post- we had a good time.
And here is a pic (as is the new header) of the bouquet my sister and I chose for my mom from our kids. Flowers have never been more meaningful to me.
Thanks for your prayers- I'm doing okay. I can take some comfort in the fact that I held her hand as she was meeting Jesus.
I am also comforted by two gifts straight from heaven:
1. The last time my mom visited here she felt good, and we had fun, and cooked together. And I was aware of the fact that it could be the last time I ever cooked with my mom and I savored every second of it. I'm so glad I took the time to notice. That's a gift.
2. I was able to say a few words and play the piano at mom's funeral. I wanted to say something, but I was unsure what I could do without breaking down. The morning of the funeral, I was playing my mom's piano- "It is Well"- and God just calmed my heart. I knew that playing that song would express two things I have received from my mom- music and faith. That I was able to do that was a gift to me and to those who were there. That's the second gift.
XOXO
Joce
I was very happy to find this picture in my camera. It was taken a few weeks ago, the last time she was able to visit. See previous post- we had a good time.
And here is a pic (as is the new header) of the bouquet my sister and I chose for my mom from our kids. Flowers have never been more meaningful to me.
Thanks for your prayers- I'm doing okay. I can take some comfort in the fact that I held her hand as she was meeting Jesus.
I am also comforted by two gifts straight from heaven:
1. The last time my mom visited here she felt good, and we had fun, and cooked together. And I was aware of the fact that it could be the last time I ever cooked with my mom and I savored every second of it. I'm so glad I took the time to notice. That's a gift.
2. I was able to say a few words and play the piano at mom's funeral. I wanted to say something, but I was unsure what I could do without breaking down. The morning of the funeral, I was playing my mom's piano- "It is Well"- and God just calmed my heart. I knew that playing that song would express two things I have received from my mom- music and faith. That I was able to do that was a gift to me and to those who were there. That's the second gift.
XOXO
Joce
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Rambling me
So, my kids are both asleep. I had a chance to check my email and my blog, and I want to write something here...but I also want to go out to my garden and weed a bit. The planted plants and the weeds are all QUITE big enough to pull weeds without hurting the planted plants or my fingers. (Pulling baby weeds hurts my cuticles, call me a wimp, I don't really care.)
So, my onions are really begging to weeded.
We ate our first fruits (vegetables) of our labors for supper yesterday- Lettuce and baby beet greens. What a salad. My mom and dad were visiting (yes, my mom is well enough to travel, the oxygen lets her do more than she was before, and that is a praise report right there. And the swelling in her arm due to a tumor she has went down while she was here, Amen!) and I cooked up one mean meal for them and Joe. It was in honor of Father's Day. Here's the menu:
Green salad from the garden, pickled beets from last year's garden, yummy steaks from a grass fed cow I never met, but have enjoyed eating, creamed potatoes (which I made and were really really good), and scalloped onions (which my mom made and were out of this world). It was fun to do a bit of cooking with my mom (read as: I spied on her and found out how to make scalloped onions) Everything was delicious and I had seconds on everything except the salad, of which I really took two helpings the first time.
No dessert- my mom had requested cookies, so we had already eaten those before supper. Because we eat dessert first if we want to. The cookies were quite yummy, too- oatmeal three ways. Oatmeal with semi-sweet chocolate chunks (Pamela I need more bulk chocolate), oatmeal with walnuts, and oatmeal with big glops of chunky Pamela-made peanut butter (Pamela, I need more peanut butter too. And so does my dad, so my order is for 1 quart creamy, amd 2 quarts crunchy. My dad said, with a look of mild elation, "It comes in quarts?" And that is funny to any LOTR fans who can picture a certain hobbit saying, "It comes in pints?" But that is not about peanut butter, it's about beer.)
Okay, if that isn't enough rambling for you, you'll never get enough, so I might as well go weed my onions. And my peppers, because I am looking forward to kabobs.
XOXO
Joce
So, my onions are really begging to weeded.
We ate our first fruits (vegetables) of our labors for supper yesterday- Lettuce and baby beet greens. What a salad. My mom and dad were visiting (yes, my mom is well enough to travel, the oxygen lets her do more than she was before, and that is a praise report right there. And the swelling in her arm due to a tumor she has went down while she was here, Amen!) and I cooked up one mean meal for them and Joe. It was in honor of Father's Day. Here's the menu:
Green salad from the garden, pickled beets from last year's garden, yummy steaks from a grass fed cow I never met, but have enjoyed eating, creamed potatoes (which I made and were really really good), and scalloped onions (which my mom made and were out of this world). It was fun to do a bit of cooking with my mom (read as: I spied on her and found out how to make scalloped onions) Everything was delicious and I had seconds on everything except the salad, of which I really took two helpings the first time.
No dessert- my mom had requested cookies, so we had already eaten those before supper. Because we eat dessert first if we want to. The cookies were quite yummy, too- oatmeal three ways. Oatmeal with semi-sweet chocolate chunks (Pamela I need more bulk chocolate), oatmeal with walnuts, and oatmeal with big glops of chunky Pamela-made peanut butter (Pamela, I need more peanut butter too. And so does my dad, so my order is for 1 quart creamy, amd 2 quarts crunchy. My dad said, with a look of mild elation, "It comes in quarts?" And that is funny to any LOTR fans who can picture a certain hobbit saying, "It comes in pints?" But that is not about peanut butter, it's about beer.)
Okay, if that isn't enough rambling for you, you'll never get enough, so I might as well go weed my onions. And my peppers, because I am looking forward to kabobs.
XOXO
Joce
Friday, June 19, 2009
Easy community service
Okay, so this is easy.
Go to twitter, create an account, and then follow @Mom_17.
I have two very strong reasons.
1. Pamela (the classy gal you would be following) is funny beyond reason. Go read her for proof.
2. She is in a contest, that has really cool baby-related prizes. And, if she wins, Pamela will donate everything but the camera (which she will give to her mom, because I guess she really needs it) to Teen MOPS of Batavia. Which is a great ministry that helps teen moms gain skills for parenting and stuff.
So, go ahead and do that. Go to twitter. And follow.
XOXO
Joce
Go to twitter, create an account, and then follow @Mom_17.
I have two very strong reasons.
1. Pamela (the classy gal you would be following) is funny beyond reason. Go read her for proof.
2. She is in a contest, that has really cool baby-related prizes. And, if she wins, Pamela will donate everything but the camera (which she will give to her mom, because I guess she really needs it) to Teen MOPS of Batavia. Which is a great ministry that helps teen moms gain skills for parenting and stuff.
So, go ahead and do that. Go to twitter. And follow.
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Strawberries
I had a little outfit when I was about 8 years old- a pair of shorts and a tank top with three strawberries across the chest. I called it- My Strawberry Outfit. And, I had big plans for this outfit. On my first day of summer vacation, I was going to wear it strawberry picking. Ah...poor ALP Farms had no idea that my 40 pound self could eat so many strawberries. Honestly, they should have weighed me coming in and going out and charged my mother accordingly.
Anyway, I took my own dear children strawberry picking last Saturday, over to Duysson's in LeRoy. I must recommend it. The farm, not the taking of children. However, I now appreciate that mom took me strawberry picking. It is not as joyous for the mommy as it is for the little strawberry party animals. I take it that Cade enjoys strawberries as much as his mommy, because, as Hanna put it, "He looks like a crazed little strawberry murderer." His red mouth and hands, and the red juices dripping from his chin and finger tips really were a little disturbing.
Since then, I can't recall how many times I have had to say, "No more strawberries!" I feel like a mom in a bedtime story for pre-readers, the amount of times I have repeated myself word for word. He's a naughty little pilferer of strawberries. He's sneaky. He's persistant. Everytime I prepare a strawberry recipe, he's there. Lurking.
Anyway.
Here are the recipes.
Number one, Strawberry Jam, go here: http://cincinnatilocavore.blogspot.com/2008/06/strawberry-preserves-no-pectin-recipe.html
I pretty much followed those directions.
Number two, Strawberry Rhubarb Pie:
INGREDIENTS
1 egg
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon corn starch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
12 oz. fresh strawberries, halved
1 (9 inch) unbaked pie shell
TOPPING:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup quick-cooking or rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¾ stick cold butter
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg. Add the sugar, flour, corn starch and vanilla; mix well. Gently fold in rhubarb and strawberries. Pour into pastry shell.
2. For topping, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and oats in a small bowl; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over fruit. Bake at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Cool on a wire rack.
Yum.
XOXO
Joce
Oh, yeah, you probably want my pie crust recipe, too. Fine. Here it is.
2 cups flour
2 teaspooons sugar
pinch salt
2/3 cup oil
3 Tablespoons milk
Mix it up in the pie plate and shape into crust. No rolling. Easy Squeezy.
Anyway, I took my own dear children strawberry picking last Saturday, over to Duysson's in LeRoy. I must recommend it. The farm, not the taking of children. However, I now appreciate that mom took me strawberry picking. It is not as joyous for the mommy as it is for the little strawberry party animals. I take it that Cade enjoys strawberries as much as his mommy, because, as Hanna put it, "He looks like a crazed little strawberry murderer." His red mouth and hands, and the red juices dripping from his chin and finger tips really were a little disturbing.
Since then, I can't recall how many times I have had to say, "No more strawberries!" I feel like a mom in a bedtime story for pre-readers, the amount of times I have repeated myself word for word. He's a naughty little pilferer of strawberries. He's sneaky. He's persistant. Everytime I prepare a strawberry recipe, he's there. Lurking.
Anyway.
Here are the recipes.
Number one, Strawberry Jam, go here: http://cincinnatilocavore.blogspot.com/2008/06/strawberry-preserves-no-pectin-recipe.html
I pretty much followed those directions.
Number two, Strawberry Rhubarb Pie:
INGREDIENTS
1 egg
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon corn starch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
12 oz. fresh strawberries, halved
1 (9 inch) unbaked pie shell
TOPPING:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup quick-cooking or rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¾ stick cold butter
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg. Add the sugar, flour, corn starch and vanilla; mix well. Gently fold in rhubarb and strawberries. Pour into pastry shell.
2. For topping, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and oats in a small bowl; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over fruit. Bake at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Cool on a wire rack.
Yum.
XOXO
Joce
Oh, yeah, you probably want my pie crust recipe, too. Fine. Here it is.
2 cups flour
2 teaspooons sugar
pinch salt
2/3 cup oil
3 Tablespoons milk
Mix it up in the pie plate and shape into crust. No rolling. Easy Squeezy.
And, some updated photos of the fam:
Thursday, June 11, 2009
A recipe, a request, and a moment of silence
Recipe:
Request:
Asparagus thingys
1 package cresent rolls
cheese
asparagus
In the little triangles that the cresent roll people make, place some cheese (I used sliced mozz, shredded cheddar, and shredded swiss- that's what was in my fridge) and about four 4-inch spears of asparagus. Roll it up like the cresent roll people say on the package, and bake at 350 for about 15 minutes. Wow. That's all I'll say. (I do apologize for posting this now that asparagus is done for the year.) (And, sorry that the picture is blurry. I did my best, but my camera just wasn't feeling cooperative.)
Request:Please identify this plant-
And this one, too-
And a moment of silence: (for my baby's hair)
Due to a very unfortunate miscommunication (on my husband's part, I won't mince words there)my dear sweet baby accidently received a Big Boy Hair Cut while I was Out of Town.
Sweet Baby-
Big Boy-
That's all for now, my little people are in need of food.
XOXO
Joce
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Quote of the moment...
God is great.
Beer is good.
And people are crazy.
Beer is good.
And people are crazy.
And a picture:
"Princess Brilyn of the long hair"
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
In the merry merry month of May...
Birthdays!
Brilyn:
2005
2006
2007
20072008
2009
Cade:
2007
2008
2009
Happy Birthday!
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
A - N
Hey! I hit th 12 week mark on Monday. That means I am feeling better. Just hungry. So, I should be able to post....just as soon as I catch up on, oh, about 5 weeks worth of work around here. Indoors and out, my duties are totally in arrears. Even the laundry. Who knew we had that many pairs of underwear? Good thing we do, that's all I'll say about that.
Quick updates and then I gotta go lie down. Lay down? No that's what I have to do with my kids..."Lay down the law." So, when speaking of flopping my tired butt down on the couch, I think I should say "I must lie down."
Anyway.
Asparagus is up! Yum.
Berry bushes are growing.
Cow is mangy, but soon to be treated with Pour-on Ivomec.
Daffodils are on their way out.
Eggplant is on my list of things to grow in my garden.
Frogs are all over the place in the back.
Garden is rototilled.
Hog is ordered, ready for pick-up May 19th.
Igloo-building is out for oh, the next 4 months or so. YAY!
Joe went to the doctor today because he keeps coughing and coughing. Honestly, we (I) just want to get some sleep.
Kara is huge. www.bugro2.blogspot.com
Lilacs!
Making some dandelion jelly, I'll let you know if it's edible.
Not able to think of anything here...must be time to quit for the day. I'll finish the list soon.
XOXO
Joce
Quick updates and then I gotta go lie down. Lay down? No that's what I have to do with my kids..."Lay down the law." So, when speaking of flopping my tired butt down on the couch, I think I should say "I must lie down."
Anyway.
Asparagus is up! Yum.
Berry bushes are growing.
Cow is mangy, but soon to be treated with Pour-on Ivomec.
Daffodils are on their way out.
Eggplant is on my list of things to grow in my garden.
Frogs are all over the place in the back.
Garden is rototilled.
Hog is ordered, ready for pick-up May 19th.
Igloo-building is out for oh, the next 4 months or so. YAY!
Joe went to the doctor today because he keeps coughing and coughing. Honestly, we (I) just want to get some sleep.
Kara is huge. www.bugro2.blogspot.com
Lilacs!
Making some dandelion jelly, I'll let you know if it's edible.
Not able to think of anything here...must be time to quit for the day. I'll finish the list soon.
XOXO
Joce
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About Me
I love Jesus, my hubby, my 6 kiddos, my farm, good books and good food.