Friday, June 21, 2013
Before & After
Fifteen pounds, fifteen inches and one year:
That's the difference.
Helpful tools?
1) MyFitnessPal app on iPhone & desktop
2) Counting Calories (weighing & measuring food)
3) Curves Circuit Training
4) Zumba classes
5) Diet Buddy DD#4 (who as of today 8/1 has lost 30 lbs since this time last year)
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 9
Writing - Prose and Poetry
Well-known in family circles for saying the wrong thing, I purposefully made my blog public.
By keeping an online diary I was hoping that a *fishbowl-type moleskin* would help me think before speaking.
Edith Schaeffer addresses these very issues as she encourages us homemakers not to forsake writing.
It is important for people to communicate their thoughts, feelings, gratitude and expectations in such a way as to build a bridge over the *break* which is true and meaningful, rather than leave a misty gap of unsure hurts and undefined emotions.
Chapter 9 contains a plethora of examples for exercising the written word: developing human relationships through communication.
She uses letter writing as a spring board and I heartily endorse this starting point. Usually it is easy to write to a child, parent or friend. I have even written a letter to myself.
For further inspiration, I highlight Alexandra Stoddard's The Gift of a Letter and Dorie McCullough Lawson's Posterity: Letters of Great Americans to Their Children.
There is no reason for apology here.
Just do it.
PS With my own children I required that they write thank-you notes, even to direct family members who may have been thanked at the time the gift was opened.
Here's an example of one of my thank-you notes to my parents.
Here's a link to one of my sister's creative thank-yous.
Another link to my thoughts on thank-yous.
By keeping an online diary I was hoping that a *fishbowl-type moleskin* would help me think before speaking.
Edith Schaeffer addresses these very issues as she encourages us homemakers not to forsake writing.
It is important for people to communicate their thoughts, feelings, gratitude and expectations in such a way as to build a bridge over the *break* which is true and meaningful, rather than leave a misty gap of unsure hurts and undefined emotions.
Chapter 9 contains a plethora of examples for exercising the written word: developing human relationships through communication.
She uses letter writing as a spring board and I heartily endorse this starting point. Usually it is easy to write to a child, parent or friend. I have even written a letter to myself.
For further inspiration, I highlight Alexandra Stoddard's The Gift of a Letter and Dorie McCullough Lawson's Posterity: Letters of Great Americans to Their Children.
There is no reason for apology here.
Just do it.
PS With my own children I required that they write thank-you notes, even to direct family members who may have been thanked at the time the gift was opened.
Here's an example of one of my thank-you notes to my parents.
Here's a link to one of my sister's creative thank-yous.
Another link to my thoughts on thank-yous.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 8
Food
Probably my favorite chapter in Edith Schaeffer's book Hidden Art, I summarize my thoughts with three quotes, four photos, and links to previous blog posts.
A (dinner) plate can be thought of at times as a kind of 'still life.'
Routinely I take pictures of my dinner plate. Above is this year's Mother's Day Sunday Dinner of baked chicken, brown rice, steamed green beans, and a fig-chutney-stuffed sweet pepper.
Below is a main meal shrimp salad enjoyed last summer with a glass of chardonnay and a slice of french bread.
Here's a link to a 2006 post wherein I describe the dinner plate and reference Mrs. Schaeffer.
Photo collage of 2010 Fall Sunday dinner.
Food and meal-times shared have always been thought of as a closer kind of communication than simply talking to people, without eating together.
Sixteen for dinner one evening during our family reunion at Callaway - complete with tablecloth, napkins, flatware, but no centerpiece. ;-(
This link highlights a 2007 Sunday dinner for sixteen, half in the dining room, half in the kitchen. Georgia peaches are the centerpieces on each table.
Being challenged by what a difference her cooking and her way of serving is going to make in the family life gives a woman an opportunity to approach this with the feeling of
painting a picture or
writing a symphony.
painting a picture or
writing a symphony.
Not afraid to wear an apron, I take my homemaker job seriously.
Another post from 2006 when I coached our daughters in omelette-making.
Join in the fun of book club blogging with Cindy and friends at Ordo-Amoris.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Schaeffer Chowder
In anticipation of tomorrow's book club discussion of Edith Schaeffer's The Hidden Art of Homemaking, I submit my rendition of one recipe mentioned in the chapter.
In anticipation of tomorrow's book club discussion of Edith Schaeffer's The Hidden Art of Homemaking, I submit my rendition of one recipe mentioned in the chapter.
2 med onions chopped; 1 stalk celery, chopped; 7 med all-purpose potatoes, peeled and diced
6 cups chicken stock and 3 cups warm milk
Saute onions/celery in 2 Tbs butter and 2 Tbs oil. Add diced potatoes. Cover with 6 cups chicken stock and bring to a boil. Turn down heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Meanwhile, warm 3 cups milk in the microwave. (I used 2 cups skim and 1 cup heavy cream because that's what was available in the 'fridge.) Very slowly add the warm milk to the cooked potatoes. It's better to allow the potatoes to cool because it's very easy to curdle the milk, if it's added too quickly to a hot mixture.
Add 16 oz cooked corn. I used a bag of frozen because that's what was available. Then I added 12 oz creamed corn ~ again because that's what I was trying to use up from the freezer. I had cooked both of those items in the microwave, so they were added warm to the warmer mixture. 
This concoction is resting for the day (29 March 2010).
This evening I'll come home from work, cook a couple of slices of bacon in the microwave, crumble them up and use them as a garnish for this easy dinner.
Enjoy~!
Saturday, June 08, 2013
Branded:Sunday, June 8, 1958
How is our baptism to be improved by us?
The needful but much neglected duty of improving our baptism,
is to be performed by us all our life long,
especially in the time of temptation,
and when we are present at the administration of it to others;
by serious and thankful consideration of the nature of it,
and of the ends for which Christ instituted it,
the privileges and benefits conferred and sealed thereby,
and our solemn vow made therein;
by being humbled for our sinful defilement,
our falling short of, and walking contrary to,
the grace of baptism, and our engagements;
by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin,
and of all other blessings sealed to us in that sacrament;
by drawing strength from the death and resurrection of Christ,
into whom we are baptized, for the mortifying of sin, and quickening of grace;
and by endeavouring to live by faith,
to have our conversation in holiness and righteousness,
as those that have therein given up their names to Christ;
and to walk in brotherly love,
as being baptized by the same Spirit into one body.
Col 2:11,12
Rom 6:2, 3-5, 4, 6,11,22
I Cor 1:11-13
Rom 4, 11,12
1Pet 3:21
Gal3:26,27
Acts 2:38
1Cor 12:13, 25-27
Larger Catechism Question 167
Link to baptism posts on http://hiddenart.xanga.com/tags/baptisms/.
Links to children's baptisms.
How is our baptism to be improved by us?
The needful but much neglected duty of improving our baptism,
is to be performed by us all our life long,
especially in the time of temptation,
and when we are present at the administration of it to others;
by serious and thankful consideration of the nature of it,
and of the ends for which Christ instituted it,
the privileges and benefits conferred and sealed thereby,
and our solemn vow made therein;
by being humbled for our sinful defilement,
our falling short of, and walking contrary to,
the grace of baptism, and our engagements;
by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin,
and of all other blessings sealed to us in that sacrament;
by drawing strength from the death and resurrection of Christ,
into whom we are baptized, for the mortifying of sin, and quickening of grace;
and by endeavouring to live by faith,
to have our conversation in holiness and righteousness,
as those that have therein given up their names to Christ;
and to walk in brotherly love,
as being baptized by the same Spirit into one body.
Col 2:11,12
Rom 6:2, 3-5, 4, 6,11,22
I Cor 1:11-13
Rom 4, 11,12
1Pet 3:21
Gal3:26,27
Acts 2:38
1Cor 12:13, 25-27
Larger Catechism Question 167
Link to baptism posts on http://hiddenart.xanga.com/tags/baptisms/.
Links to children's baptisms.
Tuesday, June 04, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 7
Flower Arrangements
Allow me to be the first to admit that I have not always followed Mrs. Schaeffer's advice when it comes to beautifying the ordinary meal.
It's not that I dont agree, I just didnt make it a priority to have a centerpiece at the dinner table.
Now that my children are grown, there is more time to spend expressing my creativity.
Here's one example, not in the kitchen, but in the front hallway from a couple of summers ago.
But in an effort to *keep it real*, I will share what is currently on the dining room table - a basket of wooden pears on a silver platter; on the kitchen table - a basket of white chrysanthemums.
Practicing true Hidden Art (aka Schaeffer) style this year, I have planted a row of mammoth sunflowers along the backside of the house. Just ran outside and took a *before* picture of the area. We'll see how they grow.
Briefly though, in individual posts, I want to highlight three separate sparks that helped light the dry wood of my lack-luster talents in the area of flower arranging
First, my mother.
Second, a neighbor.
Third, an employee.
Whoops! Make that four ~ because Mrs. Schaeffer contributed soundly to the planting, fertilizing, watering, warming, and general over all caring for my hidden talents ~ like the story from her high school years.
It's not that I dont agree, I just didnt make it a priority to have a centerpiece at the dinner table.
Now that my children are grown, there is more time to spend expressing my creativity.
Here's one example, not in the kitchen, but in the front hallway from a couple of summers ago.
But in an effort to *keep it real*, I will share what is currently on the dining room table - a basket of wooden pears on a silver platter; on the kitchen table - a basket of white chrysanthemums.
Practicing true Hidden Art (aka Schaeffer) style this year, I have planted a row of mammoth sunflowers along the backside of the house. Just ran outside and took a *before* picture of the area. We'll see how they grow.
Briefly though, in individual posts, I want to highlight three separate sparks that helped light the dry wood of my lack-luster talents in the area of flower arranging
First, my mother.
Second, a neighbor.
Third, an employee.
Whoops! Make that four ~ because Mrs. Schaeffer contributed soundly to the planting, fertilizing, watering, warming, and general over all caring for my hidden talents ~ like the story from her high school years.
The bread becomes a different thing
when eaten at a table with a lily in the centre.
More over the course of the week.
Sunday, June 02, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Gardens
Visiting and supporting public gardens both fall into the purview of tending our patch of ground, if we take seriously Edith Schaeffer's encouragements in The Hidden Art of Homemaking.
Originally conceived in 1930, after owner Cason Callaway wished to preserve the eco-system of the native plumleaf azalea, the family established the 6500-acre resort in stages. There are more horticultural opportunities than I can take advantage of each year, so I never tire of returning.
This landscape designer purchased over 300 acres about 35 years ago and has been developing them ever since. Last year he opened the grounds to the public and wow! What a refreshing place to visit.
*Human beings were made to interact with growing things*
So, it is with great pleasure I draw your attention to Callaway Gardens where we will gather for an annual family reunion for the 22nd time in just a few weeks.
In my blog's sidebar there are links for CWAC (Cousins Week at Callaway) where you can read about our family tradition.
Originally conceived in 1930, after owner Cason Callaway wished to preserve the eco-system of the native plumleaf azalea, the family established the 6500-acre resort in stages. There are more horticultural opportunities than I can take advantage of each year, so I never tire of returning.
Of course, visiting with our own adult children, my 25 nieces and nephews, various in-laws, plus some first and second cousins is the primary focus. What a beautiful place for nourishing relationships. I think the journalist who just published this op-ed about siblings in the NY Times might like to make a reservation.
Next, allow me to bring to your attention Gibbs Gardens located where I live in Cherokee County, GA.
This landscape designer purchased over 300 acres about 35 years ago and has been developing them ever since. Last year he opened the grounds to the public and wow! What a refreshing place to visit.
In my first visit this year, I was taken with the red rhododendron, the fern dell, and this charming trillium (turned upside down for photo.)
Gibbs Gardens, like Callaway Gardens, sparks the dry wood of my lack luster talents and gives me just the right amount of inspiration to come home and try something myself.
Gibbs Gardens, like Callaway Gardens, sparks the dry wood of my lack luster talents and gives me just the right amount of inspiration to come home and try something myself.
What garden are you visiting?
This post is written and shared in conjunction with my participation in an online book club where we are reading Edith Schaeffer's Hidden Art. Consider reading along.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 6
Gardens and Gardening
Spiller, filler and thriller is a mnemonic that fertilized my anemic horticultural skills recently.
See the faded pink bucket?
Formerly used as a toy bin and now gracing the view from my kitchen window,
this makeshift planter exemplifies the aforementioned design.
Spiller = varigated ivy cascades down the side. I probably need to add a few more sprigs around the perimeter so that they will eventually hide the bucket.
Gardens and Gardening
Spiller, filler and thriller is a mnemonic that fertilized my anemic horticultural skills recently.
See the faded pink bucket?
Formerly used as a toy bin and now gracing the view from my kitchen window,
this makeshift planter exemplifies the aforementioned design.
Spiller = varigated ivy cascades down the side. I probably need to add a few more sprigs around the perimeter so that they will eventually hide the bucket.
Filler = orange zinnias and white begonias occupy the center. Additional pots on the left are ready to provide decoration indoor or out as circumstances arise.
Thriller = ornamental grass in the center leftover from a previous project.
Thriller = ornamental grass in the center leftover from a previous project.
Here's a link to one of the first times I tried SFT. It started with the black metal chair that now holds a young hydrangea that is being nurtured for Fall planting.
I have so many thoughts about Edith Schaeffer's advice that I'm planning to break up my commentary over several days.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 5
Interior Decoration
Interior Decoration
Early Attic and Late Basement describe the mixture of furniture in our home.
Over the course of 32+ years of marriage I have been fortunate to be the recipient of hand-me-downs.
Most, if not all, remain in their original state, since I do not paint.
Edith Schaeffer's ingenuity sure puts me to shame.
From candle-making to furniture-making, from dumpster-diving to toy-making, there really are so many opportunities to decorate that we have to admit to being creative. If nothing else, I suggest that orderliness counts. My children always played better when the toy room when it was picked up and organized.
Schaeffer's most significant and over-riding point continues to be *communication.* This word keeps cropping up and I finally realized that she's talking about non-verbal communication.
Whether you admit it or not, what you buy or what you forgo, what you keep or what you toss, what you repurpose or what you overlook, all express your style, tastes, and interests.
In other words, we cannot ignore our talents.
My goal is to make sure mine are speaking accurately.
Photo of my living room taken March 2012 ~
Link to interior decorating post written in 2004
Over the course of 32+ years of marriage I have been fortunate to be the recipient of hand-me-downs.
Most, if not all, remain in their original state, since I do not paint.
Edith Schaeffer's ingenuity sure puts me to shame.
From candle-making to furniture-making, from dumpster-diving to toy-making, there really are so many opportunities to decorate that we have to admit to being creative. If nothing else, I suggest that orderliness counts. My children always played better when the toy room when it was picked up and organized.
Schaeffer's most significant and over-riding point continues to be *communication.* This word keeps cropping up and I finally realized that she's talking about non-verbal communication.
Whether you admit it or not, what you buy or what you forgo, what you keep or what you toss, what you repurpose or what you overlook, all express your style, tastes, and interests.
In other words, we cannot ignore our talents.
My goal is to make sure mine are speaking accurately.
Photo of my living room taken March 2012 ~
Link to interior decorating post written in 2004
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 4
Painting, Sketching, Sculpturing
While she includes some of her own sketches in this section, which are very good and helpful, especially for keeping youngsters attentive during church, I found myself curious about the illustrator of Hidden Art.
So, who is Deidre Ducker?
Nee Haim, Deidre encountered the Schaeffers while enrolled at the English school in Champery (1948-52). She attended Francis' little church and together with classmates would enjoy the Schaeffers hospitality. She married Richard Ducker in 1960, and together they were some of the first official students at L'Abri.
As an artist, Deidre had the privilege to illustrate not just the Hidden Art of Homemaking, but also L'Abri. Only one additional title shows up when searching for her work: The Reason Why You Need Christ.
But back to the topic at hand which is developing creativity, aka practicing undiscovered talents, I am encouraged that there could be something artistic buried deep in my bones.
For years I'd never seen my mother do anything other than doodle, generally while talking on the telephone. After her children were grown/gone, she started taking art classes. For 25 years she painted. Here's a link to her website. Now (almost 80 years old) she *paints* with Adobe's Photoshop program, creating greeting cards, scrapbooks, and photo albums.
She's definitely a spark lighting fire to dry wood.
Photo taken after this past Sunday's dinner when we enjoyed this menu ~
Baked Chicken Piquant
Brown Rice
Steamed Green Beans
Chutneyed Sweet Peppers
French Rolls
Strawberry-Rhubard Pie a la mode
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 3
Music is the first of a dozen disciplines addressed by Edith Schaeffer as she challenges Christians to honor God in every area of their lives. She goes so far as to say that music should be a part of the life of any family.
No talent, you say...
No excuse, she says...
Learn to appreciate music. Collect music or musical things. Support musicians. Mrs. Schaeffer's book provides a host of examples of how the talented and the untalented can develop this creative aspect of our nature.
In our family we like to sing.
Here's a photo of our daughters practicing the anthem they sang at church one Christmas.
Join in the fun of learning how to tap into your God-given talents by following along with our online book club.
Cindy Rollins is the hostess/moderator.
She blogs at Ordo-Amoris where she advocates singing, even if one cant carry a tune ;-)
Sing to the LORD, all the earth!
Addendum: Read John Wesley's instructions for singing. I blogged about it here and here.
If you're interested in reading more about my family's singing, notice the *singing* categories/labels/tags in the sidebar of both blogs.
Or click here for a similar post.
No talent, you say...
No excuse, she says...
Learn to appreciate music. Collect music or musical things. Support musicians. Mrs. Schaeffer's book provides a host of examples of how the talented and the untalented can develop this creative aspect of our nature.
In our family we like to sing.
Here's a photo of our daughters practicing the anthem they sang at church one Christmas.
John Rutter's Candlelight Carol
Here (below) the girls gathered around the piano after Thanksgiving dinner when we enjoyed a mini hymn sing.
Cindy Rollins is the hostess/moderator.
She blogs at Ordo-Amoris where she advocates singing, even if one cant carry a tune ;-)
Sing to the LORD, all the earth!
Addendum: Read John Wesley's instructions for singing. I blogged about it here and here.
If you're interested in reading more about my family's singing, notice the *singing* categories/labels/tags in the sidebar of both blogs.
Or click here for a similar post.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 2
Definitions are important.
That's the reason for focusing on the short title of our book club selection. Hidden Art.
Author Edith Schaeffer knew what she was doing, when she chose those pregnant words. Aside from the obvious stated at the beginning of chapter two and which declaration is my mantra (see masthead), I am challenged to look more closely.
Most words have more than one meaning. Context governs both denotation and connotation. So, further examination of Mrs. Schaeffer's choice should improve our ability to apply her message.
Straight from the dictionary ~
Art is the exercise of human skill (as distinguished from nature). It was such a relief when I first finished reading Hidden Art years ago to see myself as an artist.
Hidden means concealed, but not in a secretive sense, or out of sight, but in a foundational sense. Like the basement walls in my home: hidden, yet crucial to the structure of my house.
Again, what encouragement I felt as I read example after example in each chapter of how to tap into what was already there. The atmosphere (intangible) of a home jumped to the forefront.
Furthermore, when Mrs. Schaeffer referenced discipline - the time, energy, practice, and routine all required to produce art. Those words defined my life, especially when our children were very young. For a long time, knick-knacks were non-existent.
All this to say that I began to realize that the orderliness that was so important to me, that which made my day go more smoothly, is art. The First Artist is orderly. That is the art of pattern. That must be His Image in me!
Now that the meanings of hidden and art are fully defined,
the real training can begin.
Let's shed the cast and exercise.
That's the reason for focusing on the short title of our book club selection. Hidden Art.
Author Edith Schaeffer knew what she was doing, when she chose those pregnant words. Aside from the obvious stated at the beginning of chapter two and which declaration is my mantra (see masthead), I am challenged to look more closely.
Most words have more than one meaning. Context governs both denotation and connotation. So, further examination of Mrs. Schaeffer's choice should improve our ability to apply her message.
Straight from the dictionary ~
Art is the exercise of human skill (as distinguished from nature). It was such a relief when I first finished reading Hidden Art years ago to see myself as an artist.
Hidden means concealed, but not in a secretive sense, or out of sight, but in a foundational sense. Like the basement walls in my home: hidden, yet crucial to the structure of my house.
Again, what encouragement I felt as I read example after example in each chapter of how to tap into what was already there. The atmosphere (intangible) of a home jumped to the forefront.
Furthermore, when Mrs. Schaeffer referenced discipline - the time, energy, practice, and routine all required to produce art. Those words defined my life, especially when our children were very young. For a long time, knick-knacks were non-existent.
All this to say that I began to realize that the orderliness that was so important to me, that which made my day go more smoothly, is art. The First Artist is orderly. That is the art of pattern. That must be His Image in me!
the real training can begin.
Let's shed the cast and exercise.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Hidden Art Book Club: Chapter 1
Art/Artist was a bad word for me for a long time, conjuring up unorthodox images and anxious feelings. Edith Schaeffer's The Hidden Art of Homemaking: Ideas for Creating Beauty in Everyday Life resolved my hang-ups.
As an elementary school student, I squandered much of my art class-time by wringing my hands over what to draw, paint or mold. In middle school, I got kicked out of art class because I couldnt draw a picture of pollution. I sensed manipulation and political-correctness in the assignment. That was the last time I ever took *art.*
The first time I ever felt artistic was May 9, 2003 (age 45), even though I was creative before that. I just didnt recognize it. Here's a link to that story. It's my very first blog entry, after coming up with the title for my site.
Before that, in the mid 1990s, I spearheaded an art appreciation program at the Christian school where our daughters were attending. It was called Picture Parent and there was a 2-hour training program for volunteers. I was called upon by the museum-trained docent to select a painting from a stash of prints on the table and explain why I liked it. A mild panic attack set in. I couldnt think of anything to say. Thankfully, I spotted two prints, both head studies of young girls. In front of the group, I held them up, stating that they reminded me of my own daughters and what type of artistic expression I wanted them to emulate. That's why I wanted to be involved.
What did Edith write and I read years ago that cleared up my view of art and artists?
Chapter One, The First Artist.
Specifically, the Amos reference ~
For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind
And declares to man what are His thoughts,
He who makes dawn into darkness
And treads on the high places of the earth,
The Lord God of hosts is His name.
Therefore, because God (The Creator, The First Artist) knows me (called me), I must be artistic. By definition, I can create and be creative. Look for it. It's there. He tells me what to think. That's how I know what to do.
Furthermore, the first chapter is an appropriately-placed apology, a defense of doctrine that is Truth, vital to daily living and worldview. It lays the groundwork for implementing the practical aspects of the following 13 chapters.
Schaeffer's reference to Isaiah 61 is the call to action.
The first time I ever felt artistic was May 9, 2003 (age 45), even though I was creative before that. I just didnt recognize it. Here's a link to that story. It's my very first blog entry, after coming up with the title for my site.
Before that, in the mid 1990s, I spearheaded an art appreciation program at the Christian school where our daughters were attending. It was called Picture Parent and there was a 2-hour training program for volunteers. I was called upon by the museum-trained docent to select a painting from a stash of prints on the table and explain why I liked it. A mild panic attack set in. I couldnt think of anything to say. Thankfully, I spotted two prints, both head studies of young girls. In front of the group, I held them up, stating that they reminded me of my own daughters and what type of artistic expression I wanted them to emulate. That's why I wanted to be involved.
What did Edith write and I read years ago that cleared up my view of art and artists?
Chapter One, The First Artist.
Specifically, the Amos reference ~
For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind
And declares to man what are His thoughts,
He who makes dawn into darkness
And treads on the high places of the earth,
The Lord God of hosts is His name.
Therefore, because God (The Creator, The First Artist) knows me (called me), I must be artistic. By definition, I can create and be creative. Look for it. It's there. He tells me what to think. That's how I know what to do.
Furthermore, the first chapter is an appropriately-placed apology, a defense of doctrine that is Truth, vital to daily living and worldview. It lays the groundwork for implementing the practical aspects of the following 13 chapters.
Schaeffer's reference to Isaiah 61 is the call to action.
What would Edith have us do?
Let's get busy.
Artwork Credit:
"Bouquet"
Acrylic on Canvas
10" x 14"
signed *DJ*
Sunday, April 28, 1968
Link to related blog entry
Let's get busy.
Artwork Credit:
"Bouquet"
Acrylic on Canvas
10" x 14"
signed *DJ*
Sunday, April 28, 1968
Link to related blog entry
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Sue Lucey Cookies
Cream together:
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter
2 cups brown sugar
Add to creamed mixture:
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
Sift together:
1 3/4 cup flour
2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture, stirring to combine.
Then add:
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Drop teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet and bake in preheated 350 oven for 12-15 minutes.
Cool on racks or brown paper.
Makes 3 dozen
Cream together:
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter
2 cups brown sugar
Add to creamed mixture:
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
Sift together:
1 3/4 cup flour
2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture, stirring to combine.
Then add:
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Drop teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet and bake in preheated 350 oven for 12-15 minutes.
Cool on racks or brown paper.
Makes 3 dozen
Saturday, March 30, 2013
RIP Edith Schaeffer
1914 - 2013
Middelmann tribute
Tim Challies' tribute
Son Frank's tribute
Christianity Today (article link)
1914 - 2013
Middelmann tribute
Tim Challies' tribute
Son Frank's tribute
Christianity Today (article link)
Friday, March 22, 2013
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Anniversary Celebration Welcome
by William Daniel Jordan, M.D.
Many
of you know of my interest in reading alternative history, where the
author takes a pivotal point in history, and writes a story about what would
have happened if the historical events had gone the other way. It makes me
stop and look for that event in my past that was indeed a pivotal event.
I believe that event occured a little over fifty years ago when I was faced with a
decision about attending medical school. In the first part of my senior year in
college, for some strange reason, I had three personal interviews for admission
to medical school in the same week, beginning at the University of Alabama in
Birmingham on a Monday. Next here at Emory on Tuesday and at Duke in
Durham, NC, on Friday.
During my interview in Birmingham, the UAB people asked me, "If you are
accepted at both UAB and Emory, which school will you attend? I paused for a
moment, and said, "I will go to Emory, because Emory has a better clinical
exposure for medical education." I don't recall any other portions of the
interview. I finished there, drove over to Atlanta and had my interview with
Emory on Tuesday. All of which seemed to go well. The next day,
Wednesday, I received a letter of acceptance from UAB, with a provision that I
must reply within ten days, and requiring a deposit on my tuition. I resolved
my dilemma by returning my plane ticket to Duke and using the refund for the
deposit to UAB. Then, one week later, I was accepted to Emory and, of
courrse, began my studies there.
I believe that the pivotal event in my life was my decision to attend Emory,
because this led me to my wife. In the last months of college, God placed this
woman in my path. Some days we argue about just who had designs on
whom, but a little reflection makes it obvious that our marriage was
predestined. I used various excuses during my freshman year of medical
school, trying to forstall making such a radical move, but in the fall of 1955 (my
sophomore year) I concluded that the only alternative to failing medical school
was to get married.
So -- fifty years ago, on Tuesday, the 27th of December, we began our true
lives. The old southern adage of keeping your wife barefooted and pregnant
did not apply -- she wasn't barefooted all the time. All of you know that getting
a bundle of children in a short time is a life changing experience. Add to that a
five year residency program of internship and residency at Grady Hospital and it
becomes more like an odyssey.
I don't believe I recognized the full impact of this odyssey until I watched my
children have their own children. Then I could see the trials and tribulations of
rearing children, and understand the strength and dedication my wife exhibited
while I was off somewhere operating or trying to straighten out the medical
profession.
Then, as if caring for seven children (six plus me) wasn't enough, she
decided to let the rest of her see the light of day. First as a house designer and
contractor, then horticulturalist and landscape designer, then as a paralegal,
and finally as an artist. Little did I know that the pivotal decision to attend
Emory Medical School would lead to all of this.
But then I came to the full realization that the pivotal event was not my
choice, but was the Providence of God. How else could two innocent,
immature young people begin with two cats and a bunch of guppies and have
such a life of happiness and fulfillment.
I could probably ramble on for a while, but there are two points that I really
want to make:
1) To acknowledge and praise God for His sovereignty and kindness,
and His direction over the years of our marriage.
2) To offer toast to my wife, that incomparable woman who has
nurtured me, admonished me, accepted my faults and loved me
in spite of them.
May our future years be as bright and beautiful as the past ones.
December 27, 2005
by William Daniel Jordan, M.D.
author takes a pivotal point in history, and writes a story about what would
have happened if the historical events had gone the other way. It makes me
stop and look for that event in my past that was indeed a pivotal event.
I believe that event occured a little over fifty years ago when I was faced with a
decision about attending medical school. In the first part of my senior year in
college, for some strange reason, I had three personal interviews for admission
to medical school in the same week, beginning at the University of Alabama in
Birmingham on a Monday. Next here at Emory on Tuesday and at Duke in
Durham, NC, on Friday.
During my interview in Birmingham, the UAB people asked me, "If you are
accepted at both UAB and Emory, which school will you attend? I paused for a
moment, and said, "I will go to Emory, because Emory has a better clinical
exposure for medical education." I don't recall any other portions of the
interview. I finished there, drove over to Atlanta and had my interview with
Emory on Tuesday. All of which seemed to go well. The next day,
Wednesday, I received a letter of acceptance from UAB, with a provision that I
must reply within ten days, and requiring a deposit on my tuition. I resolved
my dilemma by returning my plane ticket to Duke and using the refund for the
deposit to UAB. Then, one week later, I was accepted to Emory and, of
courrse, began my studies there.
I believe that the pivotal event in my life was my decision to attend Emory,
because this led me to my wife. In the last months of college, God placed this
woman in my path. Some days we argue about just who had designs on
whom, but a little reflection makes it obvious that our marriage was
predestined. I used various excuses during my freshman year of medical
school, trying to forstall making such a radical move, but in the fall of 1955 (my
sophomore year) I concluded that the only alternative to failing medical school
was to get married.
So -- fifty years ago, on Tuesday, the 27th of December, we began our true
lives. The old southern adage of keeping your wife barefooted and pregnant
did not apply -- she wasn't barefooted all the time. All of you know that getting
a bundle of children in a short time is a life changing experience. Add to that a
five year residency program of internship and residency at Grady Hospital and it
becomes more like an odyssey.
I don't believe I recognized the full impact of this odyssey until I watched my
children have their own children. Then I could see the trials and tribulations of
rearing children, and understand the strength and dedication my wife exhibited
while I was off somewhere operating or trying to straighten out the medical
profession.
Then, as if caring for seven children (six plus me) wasn't enough, she
decided to let the rest of her see the light of day. First as a house designer and
contractor, then horticulturalist and landscape designer, then as a paralegal,
and finally as an artist. Little did I know that the pivotal decision to attend
Emory Medical School would lead to all of this.
But then I came to the full realization that the pivotal event was not my
choice, but was the Providence of God. How else could two innocent,
immature young people begin with two cats and a bunch of guppies and have
such a life of happiness and fulfillment.
I could probably ramble on for a while, but there are two points that I really
want to make:
1) To acknowledge and praise God for His sovereignty and kindness,
and His direction over the years of our marriage.
2) To offer toast to my wife, that incomparable woman who has
nurtured me, admonished me, accepted my faults and loved me
in spite of them.
May our future years be as bright and beautiful as the past ones.
December 27, 2005
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
#iheartfaces: day 17 - comforting
For unto us a child is born,
unto us a son is given:
and the government shall be upon his shoulders:
and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor,
The mighty God, The everlasting Father,
The Prince of Peace
Isaiah 9:6
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. Col 1:13-14
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. Col 1:13-14
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Friday, December 14, 2012
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Monday, December 10, 2012
Sunday, December 09, 2012
Friday, December 07, 2012
Thursday, December 06, 2012
Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
#iheartfaces: day 4 - shadows
I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me,
And what can be the use of him is more than I can see.
He is very, very like me from the heels up to the head;
And I see him jump before me, when I jump into my bed.
Read the rest of Robert Louis Stevenson's poem at the Poetry Foundation.
I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me,
And what can be the use of him is more than I can see.
He is very, very like me from the heels up to the head;
And I see him jump before me, when I jump into my bed.
Read the rest of Robert Louis Stevenson's poem at the Poetry Foundation.
Monday, December 03, 2012
Sunday, December 02, 2012
#iheartfaces: day 2 - elf
Elves linked to Christmas were first introduced in the US by Louisa May Alcott circa 1856.
This one is sitting on my desk at work, making sure I stay on task.
Here's a link to The Wonders of Santa Claus, the poem published in Harper's magazine popularizing their activity.
Do you have a favorite elf story or movie?
Elves linked to Christmas were first introduced in the US by Louisa May Alcott circa 1856.
This one is sitting on my desk at work, making sure I stay on task.
Here's a link to The Wonders of Santa Claus, the poem published in Harper's magazine popularizing their activity.
Do you have a favorite elf story or movie?
Saturday, December 01, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Thanksgiving Favorite!
Cranberry Sauce rates high on my list of essentials at this time of year. I've already shared this easy recipe three or four times this week.
Not only do I slather lots on my sandwich, but also do I stir some into my yogurt. I've been known to use it in a cheesecake recipe.
Here are the details ~
16 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup honey (clover)
Combine in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until all the berries have popped. Stir occasionally, skim foam, if desired. The whole process takes about 15 minutes. Cool. Refrigerate. Freezes well.
Cranberry Sauce rates high on my list of essentials at this time of year. I've already shared this easy recipe three or four times this week.
Not only do I slather lots on my sandwich, but also do I stir some into my yogurt. I've been known to use it in a cheesecake recipe.
Here are the details ~
16 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup honey (clover)
Combine in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until all the berries have popped. Stir occasionally, skim foam, if desired. The whole process takes about 15 minutes. Cool. Refrigerate. Freezes well.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Hearty Shrimp and Roasted Vegetables
20 oz baby potatoes, halved
16 oz green beans, snapped (2")
9 mini-sweet peppers (yellow, red, orange)
6 slices thin pre-cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
1 heaping tsp minced garlic in oil
2 Tbs herb-garlic butter
1/2 cup julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes
1 Tbs zesty garlic/herb seasoning, divided
24 oz peeled/deveined shrimp, thawed
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preheat oven to 425. Line large (12"x16") baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Halve potatoes and snap green beans.
Chop peppers and bacon.
Place potatoes in 3-qt oblong Pyrex dish and cover (seal) with saran. Microwave on high for 5 mins. Stir in green beans, bacon, and butter. Cook 3 more mins or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Add peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasoning to potato mixture. Stir until blended/coated. Then spread on baking sheet (large roasting pan) in single layer.
Toss shrimp with remaining herb seasoning and spread on top of potato mixture. Bake 6 more mins or until shrimp turn pink/opaque.
Serves 4 adults
PS I used the skewered shrimp only because it was on sale at Publix the day I walked in at 5:30 with no idea what to serve for dinner. The nice lady had everything stocked in one place. I was out the door and had dinner ready to serve by 6:30 pm. Definitely a hit. May even fix again soon.
PPS If you find the recipe card in your local Publix, you will realize that I increased the amount of veggies, as I had 2 skewers of shrimp leftover and no veggies. Also, I saw no need to toss the raw shrimp in olive oil before setting atop veggies, so I omitted that from the original recipe.
PPPS Here's a link to another shrimp favorite.
16 oz green beans, snapped (2")
9 mini-sweet peppers (yellow, red, orange)
6 slices thin pre-cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
1 heaping tsp minced garlic in oil
2 Tbs herb-garlic butter
1/2 cup julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes
1 Tbs zesty garlic/herb seasoning, divided
24 oz peeled/deveined shrimp, thawed
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preheat oven to 425. Line large (12"x16") baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Halve potatoes and snap green beans.
Chop peppers and bacon.
Place potatoes in 3-qt oblong Pyrex dish and cover (seal) with saran. Microwave on high for 5 mins. Stir in green beans, bacon, and butter. Cook 3 more mins or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Add peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasoning to potato mixture. Stir until blended/coated. Then spread on baking sheet (large roasting pan) in single layer.
Toss shrimp with remaining herb seasoning and spread on top of potato mixture. Bake 6 more mins or until shrimp turn pink/opaque.
Serves 4 adults
PS I used the skewered shrimp only because it was on sale at Publix the day I walked in at 5:30 with no idea what to serve for dinner. The nice lady had everything stocked in one place. I was out the door and had dinner ready to serve by 6:30 pm. Definitely a hit. May even fix again soon.
PPS If you find the recipe card in your local Publix, you will realize that I increased the amount of veggies, as I had 2 skewers of shrimp leftover and no veggies. Also, I saw no need to toss the raw shrimp in olive oil before setting atop veggies, so I omitted that from the original recipe.
PPPS Here's a link to another shrimp favorite.
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