Monday, January 31, 2005

El Jaleo after Sargent























Saturday, January 29, 2005

Ice Storm

No one is going anywhere around here today. We are *iced in* That's what happens in the Atlanta area. More than snow, ice is the cause for school closings etc. This particular ice storm is mild. No loss of electricity, for example. Check out our conditions at my favorite weather site.

There is a possibility that my gardenia bushes will be damaged. These four foot tall bushes flanking my front door are laying flat on the ground. :(

Sunday, January 16, 2005

Another Fabulous Sermon

I am so blessed to sit under sound preaching: true exposition of Scripture where Christ is the focus, not the preacher, not the choir, not the decor.

Today's verses were Luke 9:46-50 with a fair amount mentioned from the parallel passage in Mark 10:32-45. We were taught about the nature of *greatness* by comparison and contrast with the life of the disciples (specifically James and John) with the life of Christ. The true and incomparable greatness of Jesus in light of the obvious lack of greatness in the apostles tells all.

I was particularly struck when James and John said *we are able* (Mk10:39) I chuckled and then became embarassed.

Please pray for my pastor. He has been selected to speak at our state pro-life rally to be held this Friday at the Capitol. The original speaker had to decline at the last minute because he is speaking at the Inauguration. Wow.

Saturday, January 15, 2005

More Decorating

Recently a frame was chosen for the oil painting which will be hung above the piano in the living room. The canvas is 24"x36". The frame is large and is capable of holding onto the dancer's movements, so one's head doesnt spin when entering the room.

Monday, January 10, 2005

Deep Dark Chocolate Cake

I took this cake to a church dinner recently and am posting the recipe for those who asked.

1 3/4 C flour
1 C boiling water
2 C sugar
2 eggs
3/4 C cocoa
1 C milk (or water)
1/2 C oil
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp salt

Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed. Stir in boiling water. (Batter will be very thin) Pour into greased and floured 13x9x2 pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes. Cool 30 minutes then frost.

Frosting

1 1/2 C XXX sugar
8 T butter
3/4 C cocoa
1/3 C milk or water or coffee

Blend at high speed with whisk/beater until smooth and spreadable.

Check out an article about my cooking. Under features, click *local flavor*

Thursday, January 06, 2005

Birthday Girl

Yesterday was my youngest daughter's 15th birthday. She really has matured into quite a young lady. She has definite opinions. I like that personality trait, even if I dont always agree with them. She gave a tremendous speech at her 8th grade graduation last May, which prompted me to encourage her to take a debate class. She clued me into the Discovery Health Challenge. Might be a good way to help me stay this course.

Birthday Dinner

Roast Lamb
Steamed Asparagus
Steamed Red and Yellow Peppers
Orzo

Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream Cake

Sunday, January 02, 2005

Pot Providence

Weekly after church there is a congregational dinner for those who want to stay plus visitors are always invited. I like to bring fresh vegetables, as those always seem to be in short supply.
This week I *supplied* a spinach salad (mushrooms, mandarin oranges, vinagrette); steamed carrots; brussel sprouts in lemon sauce, AND (drum roll please) homemade chocolate cake.

Today's fashion flare is a new brooch. You know, those large, gaudy looking ones that are so stylish now. Mine is full of green stones. It reminds me of my great aunt, Beulah! aka Baba. I wore it on a purple wool flannel jacket with matching pleated skirt, green apple-colored silk turtleneck, and a 35 year old silk scarf (greens, pinks, purples). Where is the digital camera when you really need one?

Saturday, January 01, 2005

New Years Day Dinner



Roast Pork
Black-eyed Peas w/ChowChow
Sweet Potatoes (no sugar,no pecans, no marshmallows!)
Collard Greens w/pepper sauce
Macaroni and Cheese (homemade)

Cornbread w/real butter
Sorghum Syrup

Tea (unsweet!)

Champagne

I am wearing black pinwale cordoruy pants with a boldly striped French blue/white blouse, accented with the black onyx/silver jewelry I received from my husband for Christmas.