Tim Holtz - One Step Crackle!

How I do enjoy discovering new or forgotten things to do!  

Thankful to companies, bloggers, and Pinterest for so much inspiration.  


Distress Rock Candy by Tim Holtz


  




 

Beautiful and helpful.... I believe people come into our lives for a purpose/reason; we are all a piece of a much bigger puzzle! and without us/them Life's Puzzle is incomplete.

'til next time,


Con

People come into your life for a reason

I believe this to be so true.

I've met many people along my path.

They are a all pieces to my Puzzle of Life without them I would not be who I am today.

'til next time,


-con

VACATION DAY 1

 

 

Packed the van last night after a full turkey dinner with the family and left home at 5:30 am the next day!   It took us about 9 - 9 1/2 hours to get to... Quality Inn Exit 4:  (3095 Wilma Rudolph Blvd, Clarksville, TN, US, 37040).  Our hotel room nice and clean and the staff were helpful;)  Our ultimate destination is Key West, FL...and then loop back home by Christmas. 

 

We have settled down to aged cheese, apples, turkey, sausage and crackers and Jim and Dad Kahl are having a "toddy" while I am drinking my water.  I've been struggling with a bad sinus infection and am taking it easy and healing well with antibiotics. 

 

I felt bad leaving behind my daughter and our 2 grand kids - they are sick too and she could have used some help with them through the week after daycare. 

 

The van was comfortable but the wind made it sway slightly.  Thank our Lord that we have already received warmer weather.  When we left this morning our home town had a "windchill" high of 15 degrees Fahrenheit. When we arrived in Clarksville it was 55 degrees Fahrenheit and the wind had settled down; tomorrow it is suppose to be 57!

 

Tomorrow we will be heading to Lake Park, GA.  No touristy sites for today - just rest, snacks and some telly. 

Make a Window Frame with your Punches!

I added this video because I feel that sometimes we forget that we really need to utilize our punches! There are so many things we can do with them.  Pull out the paper punches and browse the web and magazines/books for creative ways for using them.  Now, I also believe that we don't use our "Thing-a-ma-jig as much as we should either (for those of use who rubber stamp).  I found this "how to" video on YouTube and hope that it will help you to understand this helpful tool.

How to Use a "Thing-a-ma-jig)!





CREATIVITY

Creativity is a drug I cannot live without. - Cecil B. DeMille

There is nothing in a caterpillar that tells you its going to be a butterfly. - Buckminster Fuller

Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of the creative effort.

We should consider every day lost, on which we have not danced at least once. - Friedrich Nietzsche




OH, we saw Robins! so pretty...



'til next time,

Con

Nutrition and Prayer....

Nutrition and Prayer is something I believe we should all do daily.  Our body is the temple for our Spirit and prayer sustains us like food does.  What a great combination!  I find myself reminding myself of this daily.  I have bad eating habits and I NEED to start some good ones.  I use to work for a food company for almost 10 years.  I understand how to read a label for ingredients and for nutrition.  I also know that food companies are not always ethical either.  I know from experience the simpler and from scratch is the best way to go.  This is the same way with prayer... God isn't looking for grandeur and big fancy words; He just wants to hear from us;)  I am a procrastinator too especially with exercise.  With fibromyalgia, lupus and arthritis some days are a challenge.  I do have  a membership downtown and I've only gone a handful of times; this needs to change too.  I need champions to tell me to get off my fat, lazy .........!!!!  I need you all to be my cheerleaders -  to keep me on my toes. I need to get fit and start feeling better.  I have another grandson coming soon.  So if you can pray for me I would sure appreciate it, thanks......

 

I would like my husband to build  a prayer kneeler for me. I've asked him and he said, "My honey-do list is too long."  Guess I would just have to wait and be patient.  I'm the type of person who can read and pray anytime of the day and anywhere.  Sometimes though... I need to focus more and that is when I would like a kneeler.  I suppose I could purchase an ergonomic fabric knee chair and just use a slanted shelf on the wall to hold my Bible or other books....

How to Make A Wood Movable Home Prayer Kneeler

I have been adding new friends on my Facebook Page - crafters of a types:  Yarn, Bead Jewelry, and of course, Paper-crafting.  It seems a lot of blogs and stores have their own sites now.  I guess you could "blog hop" that way too.  I have eliminated some of my personal acquaintances (just cleaning up who sees what) and now I have more people who don't know me compared to who do!  I eventually will clean up the crafter ones too after I've explored them to see if they are a match for what I am looking for.

Who's in the Kitchen with Uma....

Getting all the ingredients together

Adding the chicken stock

 Adding potatoes

I have been spending time with my Grandson in the kitchen; he likes to help out. The other day we made Bob's Sauerkraut Soup together.  My grandson had a blast!  It is a recipe from my good friend and great cook/baker (as well as our Village's Chief of Police).  It is really good soup!! If you like sauerkraut you need to give it a try.

Bob's Sauerkraut Soup

1 lb smoked Polish Sausage - cut in /12 " pieces (I used smoke kielbasa)
5 medium potatoes - peeled and cubed (I didn't peel mine)
2 medium onions, chopped
2 carrots - cut in 1/4" slices (I used pre-cut fresh carrots)
3 cans (14 1/2 oz) Chicken Broth (I used MSG free, one large boxed fat-free and one large boxed reduced sodium)
1 can (32 oz) Sauerkraut - Rinsed & Drained (I drained mine, but didn't rinse; I prefer Frank's)
1 can (6 oz) Tomato Paste

In a large saucepan or Dutch Oven combine sausage, potatoes, onions, carrots, and chicken broth.  Bring to a boil. Reduce heat - cover and simmer 30 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Yummy soup!

Add sauerkraut and tomato paste; mix well.  Return to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes longer.

If thinner soup is desired add add additional water or chicken broth.

yields 8 - 10  servings; 2 1/2 quarts



  
Healthy Tip...Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah)

Many people look at Quinoa and confuse it for some sort of grain, but it is actually a seed that originates from the Andes Mountains of South America. Quinoa was grown over 5000 years ago by the Incas people. It was known as the “the mother grain” in their language. It was a such an important part of the Inca culture, that every year the Inca king would plant the first row of Quinoa with a solid gold spade. The entire ancient Inca civilization spanning from the coast of Chile all the way to the snow capped peaks of the Peruvian Andes was fed by this amazing tiny little seed. (I love trivia!)

I have been watching Grain Fusion with Chef Brad.  He has a great series on "super grains" and one of them I just bought and need to use, QUINOA. 

I found this great site by the Quinoa Corporation.  Quinoa comes in white, red, and the most hard to find...black.  Just a few examples of easy quinoa recipes using cooked quinoa: salads, meatloaf/burgers, breakfast cereal, stir fry, stew, and bread. 

Quinoa Nutrition: The most Protein of any grain, great source of vitamins & minerals. Quinoa nutrition has more benefits than most people know about. Other than being a complete protein with nine essential amino acids, it is loaded with calcium, dietary fiber, iron, and phosphorus. Magnesium which is also abundant in Quinoa has been recognized for being beneficial for relaxing blood vessels. Magnesium, along with riboflavin, appears to benefit those who suffer from headaches, even migraines. Manganese joins with copper to form an enzyme which guards against cell damage caused by free radicals.

For more nutritional information go to http://quinoanutrition.info/

Cooking Quinoa: Simple to cook, like rice. Cooked quinoa looks a bit like couscous, but is more substantial and slightly crunchy.    Prep & Cook Time: 5 minutes prep, 15 minutes cook time. To Soak or Not to Soak: It usually works well either way. Most quinoa that you buy in stores has been pre-rinsed and dried, but I'm a bit anal, so I soak it 5 minutes just in case, to loosen up any residue of saponin, or dust or chaff that remains. Skip soaking if you like, but always rinse quinoa. 

I purchased a rice cooker awhile back and am going to try to make it in there. all you do is add the grain and water - cover and press start...so simple!  WELL IT WORKED! and the quinoa tasted great and I didn't add any salt or other flavorings.  This way I can use it in a couple of dishes. I am so happy that it turned out. Hopefully tomorrow I can use some of it in a meatloaf.  I was going to do it for tonight's meal but everyone wanted grilled chicken and brats.

 

I thought this quote was just right for me!

'til next time,

Con

Music & Mini Waterfall Photo Album

Mini Waterfall Photo Album






My Playlists

I haven't worked on these Playlists for a long time. I hope you enjoy them. You can see where my tastes follow and don't see a song I would like send me a note. I like Christian, 70, 80, 90s music, Billy-rock, Music soundtracks...  Some of these could still be added to;)


http://pl.st/p/15750935307
mostly Christian


http://pl.st/p/15821367563
 mostly softer, movie soundtrack, older tunes




http://pl.st/p/15942104587
 70, 80, 90s



http://pl.st/p/16264474891
 70, 80, 90s



http://pl.st/p/16264944395
70, 80, 90s

This is for all the strong ladies who have been through a lot in life and survived!! Say this out loud "I am strong because I know weakness. I am compassionate because I have experienced suffering. I am alive because I am a fighter. I am wise because I have been foolish. I can laugh because I have known sadness. I can love because I have known loss... you are a strong woman who has weathered the storm but still loves to dance in the rain!

 

 Gina K. Designs

I am sure you will enjoy going through Gina K Designs website and Stamp TV!  I know that I do...

 

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

a new me.

A new year.
A chance to try again. A chance to get it right.
I don't know what it is about the turning of that calendar page

but it always makes me stop and reflect about the past year.

And every year, I feel the same way.

I think, "I'm glad that year is over, I hope this one will be better."
Better? Better how?

 - Gina K.

Better?  Better how?... so readers, what do you think?  How can we make this a better year?  for us, others, ... its an interesting question and I wonder, "How will I answer this one?"...

'til next time,

Con

 

Really Reasonable Ribbon's 2-yr Anniversary GIVEAWAY

Shrinky Dinks DIY - The Awesome Web Show

   

Right away - and BAM I have great news of another giveaway!

REALLY REASONABLE RIBBON'S RAMBLING'S 

2-yr Anniversary Blog!

You can ENTER HERE! 

The huge collection of merchandise below (valued at over $75)

 

The Blogoversary Giveaway will be opened until 11:59 PM EST on Wednesday, 1/25. The winner will be announced on REALLY REASONABLE RIBBON'S RAMBLING'S  on Thursday, 1/26. The winner will be selected randomly from the list of entries.  Be sure to check back on 1/26 to see if you are the lucky winner. Good Luck to all including me!

Really Reasonable Ribbon's website can be found HERE.  Happy Browsing! 

Here is a nice reading magazine chocked full of information for the area I live in:  Northwest Quarterly.  HERE is an ARCHIVE of past issues.

"God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?""               -Hebrews 13:5-6

'til next time,

Con

Contact of Northern Illinois

My brother-in-law, Ted, is a volunteer at this wonderful place...

CONTACT of NORTHERN ILLINOIS!

 

http://www.nicontact.org/index.html





CONTACT of Northern Illinois is a 24 hour a day 7 days a week Helpline, that has been serving our area for the past 28 years.  CONTACT of Northern Illinois is one of over 48 centers accredited by Contact Teleministries, USA.

FACEBOOK PAGE

Do you have comments or questions on the organization? Would you like to become a volunteer or sign up for an upcoming event? Please get in touch! Just e-mail:  help@nicontact.org If you would like to become a line volunteer, please fill out the application and send it in by e-mail or regular mail, and the staff at Contact will be in touch with you soon. Volunteer Application Or you can reach them: Contact of Northern Illinois P.O. Box 83 Freeport, IL 61032 Or you can call the helpline at  815-233-4357 or 1-888-463-6260

If you would like to help CONTACT out, they have compiled a Wish List of items needed in order to continue to be a productive ministry. Any assistance with these item will be most appreciated. Wish List Ink for Printers Paper (White and Colored) Comfortable Desk Chairs Laptop Power Point Projector File Cabinets  (4 drawer) 1" 3 Ring Binders Office supplies Microwave Recliner Portable Fan Portable Heater Coat Tree Storage Boxes Camcorder Gas Cards Incentives (Gift Cards) in $5.00 increments for volunteer recognition



Your Name Is Volunteer

Written and submitted by Nancy Jo Grim
RSVP Director, May 20, 2005

Your Name Is Volunteer

Your name is love, because you showed me love and compassion when I needed it the most.

Your name is patience, because you took time to listen to me when my stories were long and my heart was heavy.

Your name is kindness, because you used your healing hands to touch my pain and guide me when I was lost.

Your name is mentor, because you taught me the lessons that life cannot teach so soon.

Your name is a volunteer, you are love, patience, kindness, a mentor and so much more…

We celebrate you the volunteer. 

Secret (Volunteer) Service
Submitted by Elizabeth Ellis

How to make an impact today!

Open a door for someone
Pick up a piece of paper left on the street
Say "Good Morning" to someone you don't know
Plug someone else's meter
Say "thank you" to the mailman
Give the next person in line at the grocery store your leftover coupons
Keep shoveling snow after your sidewalk ends
Truly listen to someone
Say "good job" for a job well done
Recycle
Donate your used clothes and toys
Make a cake for your fellow employees for no reason
Join a committee
Let someone else go first in line
Give your used magazines away
Note good service on your waiter's ticket
Send a hand written note of thanks to a volunteer for no particular reason
Say "Have a great evening" to the night watchperson
Switch seats with someone on the plane if they've been separated by a family member or friend
Print on both sides of the page
Pretend your Monday at work is a Friday!
Refer a potential volunteer to another agency who might better fulfill a volunteer's interests and passion
Mentor a new volunteer coordinator
Bring your receptionist a treat just because
Wave to children on the bus
Walk, take the bus or ride your bike to work
Learn about a new organization and how they engage volunteers and community
Put flowers on your desk
Don't "almost" make a difference, do something today!

Explore The Wonder

by Sandy Cavinee

The mystery of God's creation unfolds along our way.
Never fully revealed to us, just pieces every day.
The earth, the sky, the oceans hold their secrets but show to man- How
beautiful and mighty are God's works and plan.
The greatest gift He gave us-to share as here we dwell, are people just like you who know love so well.
And as we "explore the wonder" of what volunteering means, the WONDER is your service-you are the greatest theme!
(Sandy Cavinee wrote this several years ago and it was made into bookmarks for Volunteer Week- theme was "Explore The Wonder-Volunteer).

To Our Volunteers
by Lisa Ellinwood

V is for the Very special people that you are
O is for the Overwhelming support & compassion you offer others during their time of need
L is for the Little things you do that make such a difference in someone's life
U is for the Unspoken words that sometimes mean just as much
N is for the Need you fill when others aren't able
T is for the Time you give of yourselves on top of your own busy schedules
E is for the Emotional support you continually give
E is also for the Endless energy you all seem to possess
R is for the Responsibility you have taken on & never once complained S is for the Smiles you bring to patients & families by just being you

Luke 6:35 ESV     But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.

 

'til next time,

Con



My Favorite "YouTube Channels"

“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.”  Ashley Smith

ANNOUNCEMENT

I must have made this following channel when I was in the "playing around" mode one night... but tonight I just located "my" YouTube Channel... so I'm going to let all of you know about it (and leave this as a reminder to myself that I have one) !!!  I never thought I would have a channel on YouTube...LOL.

YouTube Channel... durandconnie

I hope everyone enjoys my favorites.  To the best of my knowledge there is nothing naughty on there...that wouldn't be my style.  I like old movies, music, dance, crafts...   If you ever see anything that is "nasty" please let me know so I consider removing it.  Thanks;)

MY DAD gave me shoebox filled with family pictures the last time we went up for a visit.  Here is a picture of my grandfather, my dad's dad.  His wife, Pearl, died when I was very young.  I didn't know my grandfather very well and I guess that is why I am putting his photograph up.  My grandfather paid  more attention to my aunt rather than my dad...we were always told that he had liked girls better.  My dad was basically raised by his grandmother.  He and my great-uncle are close; they grew up like brothers.  In fact, I know my great-uncle and he has gotten to the point in life where he just wants to go "home."  ...Heaven.  His memory is fading and he cries often.  I guess you can say he has been more like a grandfather to me.  Don't think too harshly about Grandpa; I heard he had a hard/difficult childhood.   Why did I post these pictures then???  Maybe it's because I wish I did have a grandfather I could write about.  The only grandparent that I can remember, and that is fondly remember, is my Grandmother Gladys Marten.  I loved her dearly.  She passed away from cancer when my son was 4 months old.  I miss her still.  My Grandma Marten had a hard life with an abusive and alcoholic husband.   She raised 5 children...her husband, my maternal grandfather, passed away when I was about 5 years old. 

As uncomfortable as the process of looking at our past might be, however, exploring and understanding the truth regarding our past may help us accurately interpret the present and live wisely in the future. All truth is God’s truth and worth knowing and understanding in an appropriate manner, especially as it relates to our personal lives and destinies.   Larry Barber




A picture of my Grandfather Henry Roy Fuller, Jr as a baby.

 

Memories... it's kind of funny how some things we can remember and how some we can't even recall.  My sister and brother both remember so much more than me; for some reason, I don't have many childhood memories.  They do though....so they fill me in from time to time.

I keep telling my father-in-law and my dad how they have to write our family histories down.  I think they are getting tired of me asking but I want my child and my grandchildren to know where we came to be.  Not just the dates and names... but memories... the STORIES.  It's the stories I love hearing about both the good and the bad. It's who we are...and it will be our stories that will be added to those stories.  LIFE!  I have a lot more pictures so I just  might post a few here and there...



Henry R Fuller, Jr a couple of years before he passed away.


“Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.”  Keri Russell

“One day at a time--this is enough. Do not look back and grieve over the past for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful it will be worth remembering.”

“Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today.”   Actor James Dean

“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.”

“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”    Maria Robinson

“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.”     Rev. Charles R Swindoll

'till next time,

Con



Romans 13:7   Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.