Blackberry Blessings

Chloe, the Best Rat Terrier

2011-12-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Chloe, a very special dog. Everyone thinks their dog is special, but I KNOW my dog is. Chloe has seen many adventures in her life, and is pretty amazing. We got her in Redding after she was abandoned at a church. My sons begged me to let them adopt her, and I've never regretted letter her adopt us!

Some of her adventures:

Fighting off raccoons on our deck in Lake Gregory

Chasing squirrels.

Romping in the snow.

Going with us on walks around Lake Gregory.

She loves it when she sees the leash come out.

Visiting her "grandparents" when we were evacuated due to the Old Fire in '04. First Dog EVER to sleep in bed with my dad.

Visited my sister Yvonne for two weeks when we were evacuated for a while in 07.

Going to L.A. to visit with Will when he was living there. Escaped and ran down Wiltshire Blvd.

Chloe is a runner.

She loves to dart.

She is famous for using the opportunities provided by guests coming in the house.

Sorry folks.

Poor Cat and Daniel. They were pretty understanding when she ran back in the house after being sprayed by a skunk.

Fresh skunk odor.

All over Cat's boots. I need to ask her if she can wear them.

Two years ago the gardener left the gate open and she escaped with her black lab/pit bull mix buddy Rigley. Ran off in Reche Canyon. Now, Chloe always returned before. She didn't this time. We searched everywhere for her. I was heartsick. We found Riggley dead by the side of a road. A black dog crossing a dark canyon road didn't have a chance. There was no sign of Chloe. We were so sick about this.

The next day I decided to hang missing dog posters at our local Stater Brothers.

Hanging on the post was a found dog poster with my dog's face!

Called the number and found out that she was at the veterinary hospital

in surgery.

Vet said it must have been a coyote attack.

I'm not sure who attacked who.

Chloe thinks she is mighty and invincible.

Sweet angel nurse who took her to the vet's said that she'd made her way to a People Hospital.

Waited outside for a kind face to help her.

I think she is still waiting for Riggly to return.

She's about 13 now. She's slowed down a little, but she is still healthy and in charge.

One Fall View

2011-11-30T07:31:00.000-08:00

I took this picture a couple of weeks ago from the top deck of our mountain house. The fog is drifting in over the top of the ridge, and eventually cascaded down toward Lake Gregory.

The upper deck.

I took this picture before it was completely finished.

This view shows the back of the house, from Zell. It only shows two of the decks, there is a third one below. The trees have really been cut back for fire safety. I miss the way they used to grow up through the desks. These are California Oaks.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:50:00.000-08:00

We had a quiet and peaceful Thanksgiving Day.

I cooked a turkey, stuffing, and the works. The only mishap was that I forgot to serve the cranberry sauce! There were only the five of us. Matt had to work. Afterwards we rested, talked, napped, and went on a neighborhood walk. The weather was cool and fairly clear. Everything was low key.

Restful.

Peaceful.

Happy.

I've saved these cards for a few years now, and I found them yesterday in my Thanksgiving Day box. They were sent to us from my mother in law, Georgia.

She passed away last December. We miss her a lot.

Blessings

1. Good health for all of my family members. Brother John survived the serious illness he experienced a few months ago. He had a Deep Vein Thrombosis followed by a pulmonary embolism. Very dangerous stuff. He lives in Oklahoma, and we all wished that we'd been able to travel out there while he was in intensive care. We are thankful that he is better now.

2. We have come to a decision about the Mountain house.

We will be leasing it out for a few years, and it is finally ready to rent! Scott has been very busy for the last few years building new decks, remodeling the kitchen, and redoing bathrooms. Now, it is finished and ready to go! I'm happy that he will finally be able to get fix a few things were we are actually living!

We have been looking at property management companies, and are going to make a decision about which one to use within the next few days. This process has been very stressful for us, and I'm so happy that it is drawing to a conclusion.

I can't see how this next part is a blessing, yet!

California' budget mess has impacted everyone in a bad way. Scott got a salary cut and furlough days a couple of years ago. We know many people who have had cuts to needed health care services.

My association (teachers union) has been having difficulty settling our contract for this year. The state is making further cuts to the budget due to less revenue coming into the coffers than was anticipated. This makes the problems even worse.

There is a lack of trust between the union and our management.

In 2007 we almost went on strike to get a reasonable contract.

Now, in this economic climate, getting a fair settlement is hard.

The union is asking us to do a "work to contract" week to show that we support them.

This would mean that we would do no work after out contract hours.

no parent meetings/conferences

no after school tutoring

no prepping after school

no planning after school

no grading papers or tests after school

no parent phone calls after school

leaving at 3:45 each day

walking out not being ready for the next day.

I usually put in a minimum of ten hours a week doing things outside my contract hours.

It will be tough.

If we don't support the union and show that they have us behind them, the district will be less inclined to negotiate fairly.

We may be going on strike in December.

That would be a disaster.

I hate it.

I do not want to strike.

I also do not want to cross a picket line, turning my back on my fellow teachers.

I do not want to disrupt the education to get a fair contract.

I know I will be getting a salary cut. I hope things don't get worse.

Is this a typical Thanksgiving post for me? No.

But it is on my mind and heart.

I have been given many blessings. I know that.

I am truly blessed.

Maybe I should write another list of my blessings to take my thoughts away from these problems!

Blog Share

2011-09-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

Kelly Stamps over at Kelly's Korner has posted up a "bloggy linky." I love the chance to find new blogs to read and get ideas and inspiration from others. She invited us to "link up" and share our favorite blog reads, and I thought that since I'm reviving this blog, it would be fun to share. I love the chance to find new blogs to read and get ideas and inspiration from others. Kelly's blog is so fun to read. I never miss a post and adore reading about her two sweet little girls. She loves to dress them up with big bows in their hair. Kelly is very honest, and I enjoy reading about days with her children. Kelly invited us to "link up" and share our favorite blog reads, and I thought that since I'm reviving this blog, it would be fun to share.

(this is a random view of the deck being rebuilt)

TI'm only picking three of the many blogs that I read.

Maxwell Family Blog I enjoy reading about the ministry and family life of this sweet family.

Tammy's Recipes Tammy Luna is a young mother who has recently moved from the midwest to the Seattle area with her husband and four children. She has wonderful recipes, practical advice, and beautiful pictures on her blog.

In the Blue House on the Hill Written by Terri, a homemaker/writer from Georgia. Terri writes about her home, her family, and her faith.

Mountain House

2011-09-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

This is a shot taken from the top story deck of our mountain house on a foggy, cool day last fall. Scott has rebuilt all of the decks, and they look beautiful. The house has three stories, and is built on a slope. You can see Lake Gregory from this deck. It is much more beautiful in real life.

I'm thinking of renaming this house "Scarbrough's Folly," but that is one of those stories I have to tell judiciously.

5 reasons I haven't Been Blogging Lately.

2011-09-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

I always smile when I see people make excuses after a "bloggy break." Part of being a successful and popular blogger is to give your readers something to read regularly. I understand that, so I guess I do break one of the biggest rules of "sucessful" blogs. My blog is too broad, and I don't write often enough, but since I only have five followers, and you are cool about that, I think you'll forgive me. I do have a lot of "hits" every month. People looking for information about INR, bean meatballs, and ground oats are the most popular posts of all time.

So, I decided to come up with 5 reasons that I haven't been blogging.

1. Aimlessness.

2. I should redefine my blog. It's too broad based, recipes, stories, sharing, etc.

3. There are a lot of aspects of my life that I can't really share, because they involve other people's privacy. (this really frustrates me sometimes!)

4. I don't want to narrow my blog (opposite of #2)

5. There are a lot of really really good bloggers out there, with some incredible writing talent.

I do have some reasons that I could list for restarting my blog. Best reason: I have a story to share that some people would enjoy reading!

Happy Easter, Friends!

2011-04-24T07:33:00.001-07:00

"Fire and Dynamite" | Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors | OFFICIAL MUSIC VI...

2011-02-07T19:31:00.000-08:00

I really love this upbeat new music video. Fire and Dynamite by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors of the record "C..." This video was released yesterday, and I'm going to be hearing it for years! Their new album comes out tomorrow, and I can't wait!

Ellie and Drew are such a sweet married couple.

German Roses

2010-07-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

Starry Sky Ranch posted these roses today as a free giveaway.

"Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns. I am thankful that thorns have roses. -- "Alphonse Kerr
I'm feeling like I really need to strive to look at life this way these days. Things haven't been going the way I'd like them to go, but there are still roses along with the thorns.
But lately I feel that there have been a few more thorns than I can handle. O.K. I'd better be making a list of my roses and blessings.

Getting To Know You

2010-06-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday, and I've decided to link up with Keely for her Getting to Know You Blog Hop!

http://www.mannland5.com/

The Questions

1.If you had 5000.00 to spend on plastic surgery what would you have done?

I would help my son pay for his tattoo removal. Does that count as plastic surgery? I don't know. But if I had $5000.00 extra money I'd do that.

2. Do you watch Soap operas and if so what is your favorite and why?

I don't watch soap operas. Years and years ago, I used to watch All My Children. I stopped watching it at least 25 years ago.

3. Favorite clothing brand?

Anything that works. I do like Coach, but don't get many things! My son worked there for a while, and I had fun then!

4. An afternoon shopping spree at your favorite store or maid service for a year?

I'd take the maid service. It would be great to have ! Can I take her to school too?

5. would you ever vajazzle?

No clue what that is, so probably not.

6. Favorite Disney Princess?

Mulan

7. Last movie that made you bawl your eyes out?

I can't remember. I don't watch very many movies, and tend see the fluffy silly comedies.

8. Have you ever broken any bones and if so what?

I broke the navicular bone in my foot. Ugh! I heard it snap! Worse yet, I was in the classroom, and didn't want to bother anyone so I lined up the children and lead them down to lunch. A kind friend got me an ice pack and convinced me to visit the doctor.

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Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

"He who has knowledge

spares his words,

and a man of understanding

has a cool spirit."

Proverbs 17:27, AMP

Dad raised a family of six children, and was a rock for his family. We miss him mightily. I wish that he was here right now to talk to me about some of the things that I have going on in my life. He had a very practical advice.
I'm glad that he is in heaven with Jesus and doesn't have to suffer in this earthly body anymore. We truly miss him this Father's Day.

1 Blog Added to My Blogroll.

2010-06-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

I went to the doctor and he figured out what was wrong with me in a few minutes, prescribed medicine, talked to me a while, and then sent me out the door feeling optimistic and renewed. I just have sinusitis. That's all. I've been feeling pretty crummy, and I've imagined all kinds of things. I'm going to start keeping a medical journal of visits, recommendations, treatments. Why did I wait so long to go to my own doctor? Thank goodness for Dr. E, who has been my primary care provider since 1988. I had this same problem last August. I'd forgotten about it.

Being under the weather makes me appreciate life again. I almost lost my life a few years ago, and I know that life is fragile. We need to appreciate our health and treasure it.

On another happy note, I wanted to share a blog with you. I've added Kelly's Korners to my blog roll, and I highly recommend Kelly's blog. This southern girl is so sweet and has the most adorable little seventeen month old baby girl, and dresses the her in the sweetest cutest things, many of them monogrammed with her name, "Harper." Harper went through an unexpectedly difficult time at birth. She had some type of very serious heart infection and had to be flown to a hospital out of the state where Kelly lived. She completely recovered, and now Kelly writes almost daily about Harper. I get such a kick out of her antics.

To visit Kelly's Blog, go here. Kelly posts recipes, thoughts, and pictures of her life and family and faith. I'm usually smiling when I'm finished reading her blog posts!

Laughter

2010-06-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

I'm home resting today. This is the last full day of school, and the Second Grade Team is taking all five classes to Prado Park. I've been listening to their laughter for the last hour. I can see the copse of trees around the park, and hear the children's laughter and screams of delight resound through this little canyon. Those children are having so much fun. They are playing games and throwing water balloons. I can only imagine how tired they'll be after they walk back to school.

Blogging.... blogging... blogging......

2010-06-12T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've been playing around with the new templates and designs available on blogger, and having a lot of fun. My plan is to spruce this blog up a little bit and try some new things. This is the first step. What do you think? There are so many, many wonderful blogs about everything under the sun. I just want to have fun with mine.

This is a bridge at the Chinese Gardens at the Huntington Library and Art Museum in Pasadena, California. A cherry tree is blooming in the foreground. I took this photo a few months ago. It was a lovely day. Well, except that everything was blooming we'd brought no allergy medicine.

Random Photo Wednesday

2010-06-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

Mom and Francine.

Does He Remind You of Someone?

2010-05-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

This is one of the many pictures I took this year on our First Grade Field Trip to the Los Angeles Zoo. We have gone many years, and I am convinced that it is a great trip for our students. Many of our students have never been to the zoo before! We always have great parent participation as chaperones. After we return to school we use the experiences we've had to encourage good writing.

They say that due to budget cuts we won't be going anymore. Our parents donated half of the money directly, and the other half was provided by our school's parent group, Team Coyote. It's sad to think that we won't be going again. Next year we'll need every penny we can get to buy basic supplies, i.e., paper and pencils.

None of our district's teachers will be losing their jobs this year. We are pretty fortunate. We are not losing any pay or benefits either. Good management by our district.

Next year I'll miss one of my best friends at school. Judy teaches first grade in Room 4, right next door to me. We support each other with smiles and quick tips during the day, and long talks after school. We help each other plan lessons, and discuss children. I'll miss her terribly, but of course she deserves her well-earned retirement.

Good Times in Pasadena

2010-05-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

Mom, Yvonne, and I went to Pasadena yesterday to visit with my cousin Francine. She was down from Idaho/Washington on a business trip. We had a nice time catching up. Come back soon, Francine!

May

2010-05-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

This blog is in need of a complete makeover! I need to pare it down and refocus. I have a new camera, and it's loaded with pictures to show, and I have stories to tell. But, selecting the stories is the problem.

But for today, I'll just say, "Happy May."

4.3 Earthquake

2010-01-11T21:24:00.000-08:00

4. 3 No, that's not my INR blood test result number. 4.3 is the magnitude of the earthquake that occurred this evening in Southern California. It was centered in Banning. Not a big deal at all, except a reminder to be prepared. It could also have been a foreshock for a catastrophic quake.

My husband rode it out oblivious to the whole thing, relaxing in his heated, vibrating recliner, watching T.V with his headphones on. Rock'n and rollin', enjoying his evening. Well deserved after a day of teaching high school wood shop and then working "up the hill" on our mountain home.

I always wonder where the epicenter is when these quakes happen. Until I find out those details I'm a little uneasy, because it could be a much bigger quake somewhere else in California, and my friends and family might be impacted.

And then, I'm always happy that nothing major has happened during the school day when I'm responsible for 20 little children.

Time to restock my batteries, water, and food. If/when a big one hits, it will take weeks for things to get back to normal.

Pot Farming in Downtown Riverside/Naugles Nostalgia

2009-12-28T15:27:00.000-08:00

Today we stopped at the Del Taco on 14th and Brockton in Riverside, California to get a the diet coke. Scott ran in to get it for me. This little fast food restaurant has special memories for me because I worked there 35 years ago while I was a college freshman, when it was a Naugles drive-thru. I was the soda/drink/ice cream sundae person during my shifts. Scott also worked there, as a burrito maker and dishwasher. My sister Yvonne also worked there for a brief while. I think she made tacos and worked the front order window.

I remember one time the high school boys turned off the power after a football game when the dining room was full. The whole place went dark and for a brief moment was dead quiet. Then, the fun began! The customers inside (mostly high school students,) had a rambunctious food fight. Fun. Guess who has dining room clean up duty that evening?? Yes, me. They'd thrown shakes and burritos all over the place! A night to remember.

Actually the physical layout hasn't changed much at all. The food is not as tasty, but will do in a pinch. They don't even serve the hot fudge sundaes that were so delicious thirty-five years ago. Those desserts were cool and creamy, with ribbons of hot chocolatey fudge running through them. Today's menu is much different, and in my opinion not as good!

The place is still always busy, though, because of the location and inexpensive food.

But some things have really changed.

As I was sitting in my red Kia Sportage in the back parking lot waiting for Scott, playing around with my new Blackberry Curve, I looked out the window and notice that next door was a "Medical Marijuana" growing facility. A truck pulled in to that parking lot and a father and two sons got out with hoes and a weed wacker. Now, what use could a WEED WACKER be in a pot farm?

My imagination can really pick this one up and run with it.

Just another way that things have changed in Southern California. I'd never thought that it would be legal to grow marijuana in Riverside California, even for medicinal purposes. I'm not saying that it is good or bad. It may be that legalizing pot growing will cut down on crime, and enable the State of California to tax sales. And you know, our state could use extra money right now.

I'll go back soon to get pictures.

Times, they are a changing, and not in ways I'd predict.

A Better Picture

2009-12-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

This is a photo I took of my father at my nephew Greg's wedding in June 2005. It was such a happy time! Greg and Autumn have two beautiful baby boys now!

Tgi

Blessings To You All/It's complicated!

2009-12-24T10:42:00.000-08:00

To all of my five followers: Have a peaceful, restful, and renewing time with your families. Laugh.

I am going to be blogging again soon. I've taken a long break. First, my family was struggling during my father's final months with us. My last few posts were about my dad, who was in the final stages of Parkinson's, etc. Time. I wish we'd had more time with him. He passed away to heaven October 4, and I know that he is happier there, probably picking fruit, gardening, and sitting around chatting with his friends. Talking to Jesus. He also probably is also visiting with my brother Chris, my son Brian, and my Uncle Douglas, and my Grandma. I know he missed them while he was on earth.

I don't think that he is aware of time, and I think his is not worried about us. Heaven is perfect, and I know that a wonderful place has been prepared for us there.

My mom will be fine, but she is awfully sad right now. He was her sweetheart since they were in High School in Masontown Pa. They got married and had six children and raised them the best way that they could. I couldn't ask for more. I miss Dad.

Dad before.

2009-08-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

My dad hasn't been feeling too well lately, and will not be improving. This is the big thing that is going on in our family. I am blessed to have two parents at my age, (54) and have long appreciated it. My parents have been married since they were 18.

I want to post about this without offending a family member who objected to a post I made in June. I took the offending post down even though I did not feel it was disrespectful at all. I didn't want to offend. I still don't want to offend, but I have to post.

God is good, and he is bringing our family together in different ways in this situation. Dad is comfortable, for the most part, and will be staying at home as long as we can keep him there. I won't discuss the health details too much because my family member objects.

Blessings in this situation:

Big families are good. Brothers and sisters to share ideas, rescources, and time.
It's nice to have your family while you are young. You have more time with your children.

I'm back

2009-08-11T07:54:00.000-07:00

I've been mulling over things and I've decided to resume blogging. I've had a lot going on in my life, and my blog has fallen by the wayside, as I've tried to figure things out.

So, you'll be hearing from me again.

Grow it in a Pot: Zucchini

2009-05-21T06:14:00.000-07:00

I"m having a lot of fun with my "garden" this year. As you know, the growing season is very short in the mountains, and even though I tried to grow veggies something always happened. You know. Animal problems. Animals such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, or my own dogs would eat or dig up the plants. Or we'd get an unexpected frost.

But now I don't live in the mountains. I live in a canyon. With a real backyard. I've excited to be able to try again.

I began in March by planting Burpeee seeds in those little pellet pots. The germinated and thrived. I transferred them to big pots, filled with Miracle Grow Potting soil. I have to tell you that Miracle Grow it the best, if you don't have your own compost going.

On Monday I harvested enough fresh tender young zucchini for our family dinner with friends. I enjoy watching these vegetables grow, and I'm reminded that God created all life, and I'm thankful that He created gardens!

Roses for Mother's Day

2009-05-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures this morning to share with you all.

A Mother's Day Basket

2009-05-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

I was playing around with my photobooth program on my IMac again, and took a picture of a basket that I painted and had fired. It's a nice brown color, but I did it in sepia. Anyway, I'm filling it with something to give my mom for Mother's Day.

Happy Mother's Day, and Don't Drink Too Much!

2009-05-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

I just had to say that! A really sweet parent (her son is in another first grade class), wished me a happy Mother's Day as she left school. She added, "Don't drink too much." Now, I don't drink. I am really puzzled by this. Do people consider Mother's Day a drinking holiday?

We finished up the Mother's Day gifts and cards, got them wrapped up, and sent home. The children loved making presents for their moms. I'm sure that the mother's will enjoy them!

2009-05-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

This has been such a busy week for me. I've been in state mandated math training for the last three days. I think it that it has been worthwhile, but prepping and planning for the sub has taken me time each day after school. I have two days of training left to complete, and I'll be finished!

This week the children will make picture frames to give to their moms on Mother's Day. I have 40 pictures to edit and get printed today. I'm having the first graders paint and decorate wooden frames. Today I'll make a couple of samples to show the children.

I haven't been feeling well for the last week to two, and I think that it could be allergies, or a virus. I went to my hematologist for a six month "check up" appointment yesterday and he referred me for a couple of CT scans with contrast. I am thinking that I do not really need the scans. I appreciate his ordering them. Once you go through the type of "incident" that I did with the hypercoagulation which caused a DVT, Pulmonary embolisms, and hemorrhagic stroke, it is easy to be a little concerned about things. I am on Warfarin for the rest of my life.

I realized this yesterday evening that my stroke happened on Mother's Day in 2007. Next week will be the second anniversary.

I want to spent the gift of time that God has given me wisely. I want to show His love to those people around me, and care for my family.

I promise some fun posts soon!

It's Warming UP!

2009-04-19T19:52:00.001-07:00

I'm trying not to miss the mountains. The weather there this time of year is usually so nice.

The thermometer in my backyard read 95 today in the shade. My house is air conditioned. We are quite comfortable at home. I have tile floors downstairs, which seem to keep the house cooler. I suspect that the water in the pool will be a good temperature for swimming before too long. I enjoy going outside at sunset and soaking my feet in the refreshing water while the sun dips lower and lower. Chloe and Riggley always come outside with me and enjoy investigating whatever they find. I have several large tubs of vegetables growing, mostly squash, tomatoes of various types, and onions. I also have herbs. I am enjoying this part of living "down the hill."

This week I'll go to the Los Angeles Zoo with my First Grade class. We've been discussing animals, and the children are a counting down the days until we go. Such excitement! We only go on one field trip each year, and the children have been looking forward to this for a long time.

I took pictures of these blooming flowers last year. I love the gardens at the zoo.

And of course, here is a Gorilla. I'm going to show this picture to my students tomorrow morning. I'll crop it a little so that the gorilla is bigger.

Baby David & Family

2009-04-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

One of my students had a heart transplant as a toddler. He's been a happy boy and is doing well in school. He loves to run and play during recess, and I have often thought that having him in my class this year has been a special blessing. The only thing that I notice about him is that he constantly wears his coat. He gets cold easily, and keeps his coat on all day long.

His mother had another baby in November, and the doctors thought at first that everything was fine. They thought that baby David's heart was normal. The family rejoiced and brought their new son home. In March while we were off track things changed. Baby David got sick. Mom came to me yesterday to tell me that her baby, David, has fallen ill with a heart failing heart and is now on a Transplant waiting list. He has been on the waiting list for a heart for the last 23 days.

Mom is spending much of her time in the hospital and is concerned about her other two sons. Grandma is helping out at home, but the boys aren't wanting to go to school and are not happy at home. I think that going to school has helped them. Everything is "normal" there, with friends to talk to and work to do.

Please pray for this family and Baby David. Please pray that a donor heart will be found for him.

Oak Trees

2009-04-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Before my little trip to the San Fransico area, I was spending a lot of time working up at the mountain house. It's hard getting things packed up in a three level house with fairly steep stairs. The black bags you can see in this picture all were full of things for the Goodwill. They are gone now. We'll be back up there this Saturday working again.

When I need a break, I can go outside and look at the beautiful view. We had tree trimmers out and cleared out a lot of branches on the old California Oak trees that surround the house.

The view is so peaceful during this time of year. The lake beach will open on Memorial Day weekend, and then we'll hear the children's laughter as they go down the waterslide and frolic in the cool water.

And when I need a little cheer, I can think about Sarah. She is growing up happy and healthy.

INR 2.5

2009-03-27T07:01:00.000-07:00

I woke up early today and feel wonderful. Not sick at all in any way. My INR (clotting) results came back at 2.5, which is good . It needs to be between 2 and 3. If it is under 2 I run the risk of clotting. Over 3 means that I am risking hemorrhage. It's nice to be right in the middle of the target range. I don't have to get another blood test for a month. The most important thing is to remember to eat a consistent amount of vegetables. I'm not supposed to have spinach or greens at all. (I'd advise everyone else to eat tons of them.)

Today we are driving back up the hill and packing up more junk. Yesterday we (mostly Scott) organized the garage and made room for the things we'll be bringing down today.

We planted a red rose bush by the garage to replace the one that died when the house was vacant. I've got 120 squash, tomato, and flower seedlings started. I have herbs growing in pots. I purchased a little Japanese cucumber plant.I have no idea where I am going to plant it all! If I were still living in the mountains, I'd never dare plant all of these things outside until May. And then it would still be a little risky. I'm thrilled to be able to garden!

I unpacked about 6 boxes of kitchen stuff. I'm getting rid of more things. I will keep my nice electric citrus juicer that I've had for over 25 years. We used to pick up big bags of juicing oranges from the LDS orchards and enjoyed the fresh orange juice. The orchards were open to the public at certain times. I use the juicer now when someone gives me a bag of homegrown lemons.

I don't have a place for my cookbooks. They are still in the garage in boxes. None of our bookcases are in this house yet, and very few books are unpacked.

I'll post pictures soon!

Reflections

2009-03-20T20:59:00.000-07:00

I took this picture of our pool and jacuzzi a few weeks ago. I love the way that my neighbor's house and our palm trees are reflected in the water. I'm going out every day to see if the water is warm enough in the pool for swimming. I'm excited because I've always dreamed of having a home with a pool but never really thought that we would.

I've been having trouble getting used to my mac. I expressly purchased it for photography and blogging, but I've had a few little problems and I usually get sidetracked by doing something fun on the computer before I solve the problem. I have to call the MAC store and get some software installed, but all of my paperwork ~ receipts, everything, was misplaced. I blame it on the move.

Hello! Happy Spring!

2009-03-20T20:54:00.001-07:00

I'm still around, but haven't been blogging. Things have been kind of hectic, but that's not the real reason that I haven't blogged. I've just been thinking that I need to revise the focus of this blog. I would like to share what is going on in my life, but I wonder how many people that I can really help. There are so many good blogs out there!

Tomorrow is my birthday, and I'm going to start blogging again! I'll redo and revise a little bit each day, and share recipes, ideas and things that are on my mind.

Friday

2009-02-19T21:11:00.000-08:00

I have not been blogging lately. For more than one reason. But please keep checking back, I have a lot of things left that I want to blog, and some pictures that are ready to upload! I promise that there will be more soon!

A Mountain View.....

2009-02-19T21:08:00.000-08:00

Next week I'll do better....36

2009-02-15T17:19:00.001-08:00

A Verse to Consider

2009-02-11T05:55:00.000-08:00

When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one
as well as the other.
Therefore, a man cannot discover
anything about his future.

Ecclesiastes 7:14

Commentary

Ecclesiastes is an amazing book of the Bible. The main point of this book is that life without God is an exercise in vanity. We can work very hard over things that bring no real value to our lives. If we think that good circumstances are the validation of our lives, we have set ourselves up for despair when bad circumstances come. Both responses don't give us the perspective needed to know how to proceed in victory or defeat. The person who has been apprehended by God has a perspective that goes far beyond being blessed or experiencing want.

commentary by:
David Whitehead, Pastor, Grace NYC

More First Grade Secrets

2009-02-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

One of the many things I enjoy about teaching first grade is listening to my student's conversations.

Today, a little boy raised his hand in class after I took the attendance. "My feet are shivering."

"What do you mean, " I slowly said. "Are your feet cold?" "No." "Do they hurt?" "No. They are just shivering." "Please tell your mother about it when you go home." What else could I say? I wanted him to know that I cared, but I can't imagine how the school nurse would feel if I sent him to the office with a note explaining that he had "shivering feet."

You never know.

One of my sweetest girls returned on Monday after a long absence due to a serious illness. We'd all sent her letters and cards and the children were delighted so see her. Everyone bent over backwards to help her in any way. She went to my classroom assistant and said, "Why does everyone love me so much?"

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Cake Mixes

2009-02-03T06:47:00.001-08:00

Whenever I see boxed cake mixes on sale I purchase enough to keep my kitchen pantry well stocked. They can be used to make many types of quick cookies, cobblers, as well as cakes. I love to add ingredients to make the boxed cake mixes special. They are quick to make and easy to use.

Here are a few of the cake mix cookie recipes that I've written about in the past:

Cranberry Walnut Bar Cookies (click on "Cranberry)

Cranberry Pretzel Drop Cookies (My family loved these. The picture doesn't do them justice.) And please try the

Chocolate Banana Cookies

I have a Cake Mix Doctor cookbook that I sometimes use. You can visit her website by clicking here to get yummy recipe ideas!

For more Kitchen Tips, visit Tammy's Recipes!

A New Week! Fun Times in First Grade

2009-02-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Our principal will be back today! She's been out with a back injury and we've all missed her! She truly leads and inspires us. I know that one day she'll want to retire, and I'm trying to prepare myself!

We are starting Theme 6, "Animal Adventures" in our Houghton Mifflin Language Arts series. Fun stories.

My class is finishing up our group science fair project. We hope to win a prize! I'm going for the ant farm.

In'n Out Burger is coming to our school on Thursday evening with a big truck to prepare their food. They are donating ALL of the proceeds to our school! We are combining it with a literacy night and lots of good times.

Keebler's Peanut Butter Cracker Recall

2009-02-02T05:53:00.000-08:00

I received a letter last week from Kellogg's Warehouse Club. It seems that their records indicate that I purchased Austin branded Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers between July 1, 2008 and January 12, 2009. I guess the crackers in question may potentially have been contaminated with Salmonella. The company apologized and said that there had been a breach in their supplier's process that was unacceptable to Kellogg. The letter included a hotline contact number (877-869-5633).

Two things:

1) It's amazing that a company can track down customers to mail them letters at home with this type of information. I do feel that they are sincerely sorry that this has happened.

2) I'm sure that the crackers in question were fine. When I received the letter the crackers had already been eaten ! I gave them to students who were hungry and didn't bring a snack. I ate some also. No one has been sick.

If you want to visit the Keebler Website, click here.

First Grade News

2009-01-29T19:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday after I took attendance a little boy raised his hand as high as he could. When I called on him he said, "I've got good news! We get to keep my baby brother!" Yes, I'd imagine the new baby was here to stay! What he meant to say was that the little one had just come home from the hospital.

Sheepish

2009-01-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

In this game you have to catch the escaping sheep as fast as you can. I couldn't score higher than armadillo this morning. Click here to play the game yourself.

Hello

2009-01-21T06:09:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling under the weather. That's why I haven't posted. I was in bed most of the weekend, and took Tuesday off from school. I have three or four things wrong. Went to urgent care on Monday and got x-rayed, lab tests, etc. Came away with pain medicine and orders to rest.

I'm feeling better now. Somewhat. I'll go back to school today.

I went in to school yesterday morning to set things up for the sub and to finish up my sub plans. I was soooo thankful to only have to go down the street rather than drive down the mountain to do it. I wanted the children to have a good day even if I was sick.

When I arrived back home the inauguration had started, and I saw Barack Obama take the oath of office. This was something very very special to me. I know that many of you don't agree with his stand on social issues, especially abortion, but the fact that our country has elected an African American president is a blessing.

We need to pray for our country and our president. "Where there is no vision the People perish."

That's the way it is, folks!

Wordless Wednesday: Bouganvillas!

2009-01-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

This flowering plant is originally from South America. This one in my backyard is growing fast and needs to be trimmed again!

Roses Just Planted

2009-01-10T09:08:00.000-08:00

These are some roses that my wonderful sister Yvonne planted in a tub last week. I wonder how they are doing now? I wanted to share them with you because I like them. Also, I'm tired of seeing the photoshop picture of Will and our neighbor/friend Tawny when I open the Blackberry Blessings. I'm ready for something fresher, and I'm sure you are too!

Experimenting with Photo Booth: Will and Tawny

2009-01-08T05:10:00.000-08:00

Basically PhotoBooth is a fun Mac program that snaps four pictures much like those photo booth kiosk things at malls. We had fun playing around with it one day.

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Link to a Food Storage Video

2009-01-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Melinda Lee is a radio/tv personality here in California. Her background is in catering and cooking. She has developed an excellent Food Storage Video that is available to watch on line for free here. Keeping food fresh is important for both health and saving money by not wasting food. The video is 21 minutes long, but well worth the watching!

For more kitchen tips, visit Tammy's Recipes!

One Year Anniversary Blessings

2009-01-05T08:01:00.000-08:00

It's been one year since I returned to work after the devastating stroke/clotting event. I am so happy and blessed to have recovered. I have made changes in my life and intend to keep making changes.

Please rejoice with me that the Lord has allowed me to stay here.

To help me celebrate, I wonder if some of this blog's visitors could please post a comment or become a follower of this blog. Thanks!

Now, I'm off to school. I've got to get ready for my little ones.

The Jacuzzi is working.

2009-01-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Everything is working. Scott fixed it so that it actually gets warm now. I love the little waterfall into the pool. What a good way to start the year!

Unexpected Visits

2009-01-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

Black-eyed Pea Salsa (I was experimenting with the lighting when I took this picture. Sorry that it is so dark!)

This afternoon I dropped by my mom and dad's place. Brother Bill and Sister Yvonne and her husband were there. I got there around 2:00. Didn't realize that Mom would be serving a meal. Perfect timing, on my part. ;) Mom cooks very healthy foods. She uses very little sodium. sugar, or fats. She can tell you from memory how much sodium is in most foods. Just ask her. It's a challenge to cook a variety of tasty foods given my dad's limited diet. Mom uses a variety of seasonings to make her cooking taste yummy.

Today she was serving black-eyed pea salsa, corn bread, and chile rellano casserole. It was very tasty, and I'm happy that I showed up just at the right time!

Mom said that she learned that serving black-eyed peas was a New Year's tradition in some parts of the south when she moved to California in 1960. In her home in Southwestern Pennsylvania they served sauerkraut. I believe that it originated from her Slovenian heritage. I knew that when she made stuffed cabbage she always added sauerkraut. We loved it.

Our family lost most of the Slovenian traditions. My own children are much more familiar with Tamales as a holiday treat. I tried to get them to like stuffed cabbage but they never were as excited about it as I was. Oh, well.

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Incoherent

2009-01-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Incoherent

The First Day of a Brand New Year. 2009 is here!

2009-01-01T12:37:00.001-08:00

I'm not doing any of the traditional things that I've done in the past on New Year's Day.

Today I'm going Up The Hill to pick up the mail and check out the mountain house. Maybe do a little packing/etc. I didn't mention getting that house ready to rent/sell in my New Year's resolutions. It's a given.

I'm curious about how much snow is left. I'll post a picture this afternoon! I have beans simmering on the stove, I think I'll transfer them to the crockpot. We also have a ham tucked in the refrigerator for the holiday. It's just Scott and I today, Will is at work, and Matt is still gone on his trip. I'm not really planning on cooking a big meal, but Will expressed a desire to have the ham and since he is almost too thin, I am sure he can stand the calories. Yesterday he cleaned out and organized my refrigerator and freezer. I did my usual New Year's Eve trip to Costco to stock up on everything. He did a great job!

Today I plan to rest and have fun. Tomorrow I'll get busy and start planning and organizing for the New Year!

My New Year's Resolutions

2008-12-31T22:56:00.000-08:00

1. Go for walks as often as possible. Preferably 6 days a week. Visit as many state parks as possible this year.

2. Plant herb garden, some vegetables, and lots of flowers at our new house. Also, check into dwarf fruit trees, especially lemon trees.

3. Get back to sewing and crafting for fun.

4. Keep a careful watch on how much money I spend. Record everything, and plug up money "leaks."

5. Do more photography, possibly take a class. (I took one in 1984, but things have changed a lot since then.)

6. Start a gratitude notebook and frequently record all of my blessings. Remember to be thankful for all that I have been given.

As usual, I want to spend time with my family and friends. I'm not writing that down as a new resolution, though, because I have always enjoyed spending time with them.

I want to make good health a priority.

I also have a couple very strong desires that are close to my heart that I intend to pray for each day. I can't share them here because they involve family members and others.

Thrifty Basmati Rice Main Dish

2008-12-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

I made a Basmati rice dish for supper this evening. Basmati rice is grown in India and Pakistan, and has a nut-like fragrance. The grains are longer and don't stick together. I love to use Basmati rice. I purchase the big 20 pound bags of Basmati rice at Costco, and it lasts our family a long time. My first big bag of Bastmati rice was an Eid al Fitr gift from my friend Zarheen, who immigrated here from Pakistan many years ago. She also introduced me to the pleasures of Pakistani home cooking. Simply delicious.

The price of rice has skyrocketed recently, and the current bag that I have cost almost $8.00 more than the one that I'd purchased the year before, but I still think that rice is an economical. You can use Basmati rice in any rice dish. One of these days I'll pull out Zahreen's handwritten recipe and share her seasonings with you. Today's dish is not seasoned in the manner of the Pakistanis.

Basmati rice needs to be rinsed in cold water until the water is clear.

Ingredients~

2 cups uncooked rinsed rice
2 cans chicken broth (this can be omitted, but I recommend if for the flavor)
3 chopped red bell peppers (I had red ones that needed to be used, but green ones would work also.)
3 cups sliced celery
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1 chopped onion
1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots
2 pounds ground meat (chicken, beef, turkey, or meat substitute will work)
Grated cheese for topping. You can use any type of cheese that you have on hand.

To make this, I saute the rice, onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper in a large skillet, then add the chicken broth and let it cook until done. I then top it with the frozen peas and carrots and put a lid on the skillet. I cook the ground meat at the same time that the rice/vegetable mixture is simmering. I then drain the ground meat and add it to the rice/vegetable combination. Top with cheese, and serve with a green salad.

You could add canned tomatoes or tomato paste, but I didn't this time because my husband is avoiding spicy foods right now. This picture isn't so great, but the rice was delicious. Everyone had seconds, and I have leftovers for a handy snack tomorrow.
salt and pepper to taste

For more kitchen tips, visit Tammy's Recipes.

Blogging Adventures

2008-12-27T20:48:00.001-08:00

I haven't been posting very much lately. It's not that I have lost interest in blogging. Things have just been more difficult than I anticipated.

I can sympathize with a couple of fellow bloggers. Tammy over at Tammy's Recipes has recently moved from Ohio to Seattle, Washington. Since she moved, she's having trouble making her wonderful bread. It just doesn't have the same taste or texture the bread that she baked in Ohio. I'm sure that she will make adjustments and get it right, eventually, but it is taking time. She's also busy taking care of a baby and two little boys, unpacking, and getting used to life in a totally different environment.

And then there is Bethany at Happy to Be Called Mommy blog. I've followed her blog for several years, way before I had my stroke. She's having computer/camera problems, and it trying to get back on track with her blogging. I know that she will, she is just trying to figure out what is causing all of her issues.

I have moved. I have not been posting cooking posts. I didn't realize that I was going to have so much trouble adjusting to this new kitchen. For one thing, I am cooking at a lower altitude again after twenty years. I also have new appliances which are more efficient than the ones at my mountain house. This microwave gets hotter faster. The oven has a convection feature, which I've always thought would be nice to have. It all takes time to familiarize myself with this new kitchen environment. I'll get the hang of it, but it's taking me time. The other day I made chocolate chip cookies. Basic recipe. Easy, right? Nope. When I baked the cookies they spread out over the cookie sheet and started to burn. Someone had put powdered sugar in the flour canister, and I'd been in a hurry in a partially lit kitchen and not realized that I'd used it. The dough had brown sugar, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar, but no flour!

And then I have a new computer. A Mac. And it is taking me a while to learn all of the things I need to learn in order to upload pictures and blog them. But I'm getting closer!

I'm frustrated that it has taken me so long, but on the other hand I'm glad to have this chance to learn new things!

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Crispy Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

2008-12-23T16:59:00.000-08:00

My tip today is another short and simple one. A few months ago a friend mentioned that she always spreads real mayonnaise on the outside of the bread slices when she prepares toasted cheese sandwiches. I tried it and it is really yummy. The sandwiches are crispy and crunchy, and I think less likely to burn than grilled cheese done with butter or margarine. I'd use it anytime you want to grill a sandwich!

For more Kitchen Tips, visit Tammy's Recipes!

A Quick Gift Idea

2008-12-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

I found a very nice gift idea for students over at the Reading Zone. Personalized bookmarks! I'm definitely going to make some for my first graders soon. Maybe give them as a New Year's gift when we get back. Many of my students celebrate the Chinese New Year, so I'm going to do a social studies unit about that!

If you have access to a laminator, this might be a nice quick idea ~ you could even use the bookmarks as gift tags!

To go to the Reading Zone and see the bookmarks, click here.

Saturday: Our 33rd Aniversary

2008-12-21T11:45:00.000-08:00

We celebrated our 33rd Anniversary yesterday by driving to San Juan Capistrano and enjoying a late lunch at El Adobe restaurant.
There is always something beautiful blooming on the grounds of this old restaurant. Hundreds of couples are married in the gardens each year. We saw a young couple there yesterday, scouting out the grounds as they planned their wedding. At other times we've had peeks of wedding receptions downstairs though windows as we've enjoyed brunch.

The El Adobe site has been recognized as a California State Historical Landmark. It is located in the two short blocks south of the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Train Depot district. The building was originally two separate structures. The northern section was built in 1797, and was the home of Miguel Yorba Adobe. The southern half housed the Juzgado (court and jails) and was established in 1812.
After we ate we window shopped and visited a couple of antique stores. Scott surprised me with a lovely gift. He really is very romantic and sentimental even after all of these years.

Unless The Lord...: Dangerous Chocolate Cake

2008-12-21T11:29:00.000-08:00

Unless The Lord...: Dangerous Chocolate Cake

This cake does indeed sound dangerous, and delicious.

Thursday

2008-12-18T06:34:00.001-08:00

I have almost all of the Christmas preparations completed at school. We've had a very busy week, and trying to keep 20 energetic first graders focussed on learning tasks when they'd really rather be playing outside can be quite a challenge! Yesterday it rained, and the children were not able to go outside for recess.

Only two more days left before the winter holiday break!

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Coincidence?

2008-12-15T21:03:00.000-08:00

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Coincidence?

Rainy Blessings

2008-12-15T18:16:00.000-08:00

It rained all day today. I love rain and cold weather, especially now that I don't have to worry about our family traveling over icy snowy and foggy mountain roads to to and from work and school. I slept much better last night knowing that I wouldn't have to travel down the mountain, and struggle with getting snow chains on and off our vehicles. I thank the Lord that He has provided a home for us is so close to my school.

For information about the weather up there right now, go to rimoftheworld.net.

The children at school were really excited about the rainy weather. My sweetest story today is about a little girl who left the classroom to go to the restroom. She didn't come back immediately, and I needed to take our class to another teacher's room for an activity. I saw her as we were on our way.. she insisted that she had to put something really important in the classroom. She didn't want to take it with her because it might get lost. I told her that she couldn't go back by herself. I asked her what was so important to her. She had something bundled up under her sweater, coat and scarf..... I wondered what it could be.

She reached in and pulled out her little Precious Moment's children's Bible.

Saturday

2008-12-13T16:04:00.000-08:00

It is about 4:00 and we've had kind of a lazy morning and afternoon. Resting, making holiday plans, working on Christmas stuff. The weather here in Southern California is cooler, and we are expecting rain. It will most likely snow next week at our Mountain house. I'm happy to be able to avoid an icy cold foggy commute. Nice.

Blood Thinners, INR, and Stroke Prevention

2008-12-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Recently several people have visited my blog with questions about strokes, blood thinners and INR. I've got links on my sidebar to websites with a good information, but I wanted to write a little more about my personal experiences. I think that my situation might be informative and helpful for others.

I had a hemoraghic stroke about eighteen months ago. It was caused by a sinus thrombosis. I found a new (to me) article about the type of stroke that I had at About.com. You can find the full text by clicking here.

The following is an except from the article, which I find somewhat reassuring. I am on warfarin, which is a generic form of the blood thinner coumodin, and will be taking this medicine for the rest of my life.

Medical treatments:
Unless it is medically contraindicated, every person who is diagnosed with dural sinus thrombosis should receive long term treatment with blood thinners, such as heparin, coumadin, and lovenox. These medications are given in order to prevent the enlargement of the blood clot that sits inside the affected dural sinus, and to prevent the formation of new blood clots which could lead to new and possibly worse strokes.

I have thrombophilia, which is a genetic clotting disorder. I did not know I had it until after the stroke. Over the years, I had problems with miscarriages, and infertility, as well as the premature death of my dear little one, Brian Nathaniel, which I now know also may very well have been related to my thrombophilia.

When I had the hemorrhagic stroke on Mother's Day, 2007, the doctors didn't realize what had happened, and indeed didn't even find the blood clots for a while. My body had gone into a hypercoagulative state. I was clotting everywhere, and while I was lying in a hospital bed being treated for a hemorrhagic stroke, the doctors didn't know what was also happening. I had developed a DVT in my left leg, and pulomary emboli. I also had clots growing in the veins of my brain. But they didn't realize this at first.

They assumed that the stroke was caused by years of untreated high blood pressure. That was not the case. For one thing, I had always been careful to monitor my blood pressure. They didn't look for other causes.

My doctors became concerned because I had leg pain, and ordered an ultrasound of my leg. They found a DVT. They then called in a hemotologist/oncologist, Dr. Chu. He saved my life by being thorough. He ordered a full body scan, and that's when they found the blood clots in my leg, lungs, and venous sinuses.

Now for the hard part. They needed to treat my blood clots with heparin, followed with lovenox or coumadin. Blood thinners can be dangerous for someone who has had a hemorrhagic stroke. You don't want to cause more bleeding. But more clotting in the brain isn't good either. The doctors kind of woke me up and explained the situation. I was in intensive care. I'll never forget them telling me that they were between "a rock and a hard place' with my treatment.

I have recovered, for the most part, remarkably well. I give thanks to God for blessing me with more time to be with my family and friends here on earth. I have also been able to return to teaching my little first graders.

I take my blood thinners daily, and visit the lab regularly to monitor my INR level. I'll be glad to help people with questions find the resources that can give more information.

Holiday Ideas Links for Children and Adults

2008-12-11T01:25:00.000-08:00

Today is the ending of a fun but busy week at school. I've got to try to go to work early to get some things done.... a parent letter, homework for next week, and general organizing.

Yesterday I cooked some beef in the crockpot with a package of onion soup mix and a few canned jalapenos. It was nice to have most of our dinner prepared when I arrived home. I walked, of course, and enjoyed every step. I rejoice that I no longer have to drive to work, and do not have the stress of traffic and crazy drivers! I also do not need to fill up my gas tank!

I have still not done much in the way of preparations for our family holiday. I need to get the Christmas cards mailed this weekend! I also have some thank you cards to write. My friend Sharon brought me herb plants and now I have the start of a nice herb garden! I hope to post pictures of them soon.

Have a lovely weekend, friends!

1. Flip Flops 'n Applesauce shows some adorable glitter snowflake ornaments that children can make from q-tips and glue.

2. Danielle's Place has tons and tons of Chidren's craft ideas and resources.

3.MyCraftbook has many fun Christmas craft ideas: Christmas Crafts

4, Quilting on a Budget I think I am going to enjoy reading this new site. The ideas are practical and beautiful!

Teacher, is Santa Claus Real?

2008-12-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

When one of my first graders asks me this question, I try to slide out of it by saying, "What do you think?" I try not to have a whole class discussion about this.... or answer them directly. I do not want to lie to my students, and I also do not want to contradict what a parent has said, or spoil family fun.

It's been coming up everyday this month. I've managed to evade answering this question at all so far. We are busy making Christmas cards and presents for our families. I"m up to my elbows in glitter, glue and paint. Such excitement! We are also making a food basket for a needy family. I've ordered a book from Scholastic for each of my students as my gift to them.

Actually, I try to keep the children's schedule as normal as possible. We have a lot to learn in first grade, and high expectations.

Friendship Blessings

2008-12-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

A special friend of mine, Debbie from Connecticut, sent me a Bag of Bigelow Pumpkin Spice Autumn Spiced Tea. I received it today, but she sent it in November! It had been mailed to the wrong P.O. Box. It is so nice to receive special surprises from my friends. I plan to take it to school with me tomorrow and drink a nice warm mug before class starts!

Thanks, Debbie! I know that you frequently read this blog, and I wanted to let you know that I really appreciate your thoughtfulness!

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Date Canned Goods

2008-12-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

Another short and simple tip this week.
1. Take a sharpie pen and label all of your canned goods with the date as you put them in your cupboards. This helps to ensure that the oldest items are used first.
2, When you add items to your pantry, put them in the back, and push the older cans towards the front.

I was reminded of the importance of this on Saturday when I was packing up things at the mountain house.
I pulled out a can of tuna that had been stored since 1999. Ooops! It got tossed out.

I'm glad that I had dated it. (back in 1999!) To bad that it had been shoved to the back and somehow I'd neglected to use it! I suspect that it had been in the stuff that I'd set aside for earthquake preparedness, and had been stored separately, then later put into the pantry.

For more kitchen tips, visit Tammy's Recipes!

Questions

2008-12-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday in class a little boy came up to me and asked, "Don't evil churches meet on Sunday, and good ones meet on Saturday?"

Now, normally when children ask me a religious question, I refer them back to their parents. This time I couldn't resist answering. I told him that some churches meet on Saturdays, and some churches meet on Sunday. The day of the meeting doesn't make them evil or bad.

I'm not sure what church this little one attends. He has a lot of strong opinions, though. He doesn't "celebrate" Halloween. (I don't like that holiday either, and many other families don't "celebrate it." In fact, we don't have parties or costumes at school at that time.
Now this little guy s is saying that he doesn't celebrate Christmas. I tactfully asked his dad at parent conferences about this issue and dad didn't mention any restrictions on Christmas. He allows him to say the flag salute.

I'm glad that he is being given religious instruction, but I am concerned about his concepts of things being "evil."

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Fruit Baskets

2008-12-02T08:18:00.000-08:00

My tip this week is short and simple. To promote healthy snacking in my home I almost always keep a fruit basket or bowl on a kitchen counter or table with oranges, bananas, and apples in it. My husband eats at least one orange every day. During the summer months my basket will frequently contain the wonderful fresh peaches, apricots, nectarines, and plums that grow so well here in California. It's just easier to get hungry men and teenage boys to grab a piece of fruit when it is readily available and in plain sight. It's amazing how a bunch of grapes will stay in the refrigerator forever, but when I wash them and put them on a plate they are gone in a few hours.

I also love to display a plate or bowl of fresh lemons. So simple yet elegant!

To find out more about California Citrus fruit, click here. This link will take you to Sunkist.

No Divorce

2008-11-30T22:04:00.001-08:00

I don't usually post much about my family members, but I wanted to tell you a story. An elderly family member called today and mentioned that another couple in our family was getting a divorce. I was saddened by this news, and spent the day with a black cloud hovering in the background of my mind and emotions. How could this happen?

I'd not spoken to the family members for several months. They live in another state and I've been distracted because of our move. I called them this evening to see how things were going and I found that the person who'd told me that was wrong. They are not getting a divorce and have not split up. The elderly family member is kind of hard of hearing and also gets things confused. I should have realized immediately that the information was false, but I didn't!

I'm so glad that she was wrong.

Broken Link.....Fixed!

2008-11-28T22:05:00.000-08:00

I didn't realize that the Habitat ReStore link wasn't working until this evening. I'm updating it in the original post, but I also wanted to repost it here:

You can find the Habitat For Humanity ReStore Directory by clicking here.

Giving Thanks!

2008-11-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

Fore each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends
by Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Psalm 100

2008-11-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

Psalm 100 (KJV)

"Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
'
For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations."

Works for Me: Frugal and Green~ Habitat ReStores

2008-11-26T06:30:00.000-08:00

We've been busy moving into our new home. We recently purchased a bank owned property that has needed a lot of work. We've had fun finding things that suit our preferences. I wanted to share a new place that we discovered to purchase things for the house. For instance, we were able to get beautiful new rugs for a fraction of the cost that they normally would have been at a regular retail store. I'm talking $40.00 for a lovely new room sized rug! Every location has a different inventory, so you never know what you'll find!

It's called the ReStore.
Habitat ReStores are retail outlets where quality, used and surplus building materials are sold at a fraction of normal prices. Proceeds from ReStores help local affiliates fund the construction of Habitat houses within the community. Many affiliates across the United States and Canada operate successful ReStores—some of which raise enough funds to build an additional 10 or more houses per year.

Materials sold by Habitat ReStores are usually donated from building supply stores, contractors, demolition crews or from individuals who wish to show their support for Habitat. In addition to raising funds, ReStores help the environment by rechanneling good, usable materials into use.

Link: Go here.

To read more "Works for Me" tips visit Rocks in My Dryer

Kitchen Tip Tuesdays

2008-11-25T07:21:00.000-08:00

For lots of Kitchen Tips, visit Tammy's Recipes. Tammy sponsors a roundup of Kitchen Tip ideas every week. Visit and you'll find some great ideas!

Visit Tammy's Recipes!

Simple Thanksgiving Decorating

2008-11-25T07:06:00.000-08:00

I decided to share a post that I wrote last year, about my table from Thanksgiving '06. You can see that I used some simple ideas and used things that I already had around the house to create a festive table. A little ribbon can go a long way!

Today, I am planning our family Thanksgiving Feast. I decided to look up the pictures and menu from last year, and when I saw these pictures I knew that I wanted to share them with you. I am not an artistic person, but I did enjoy creating this table.

I would say that this table setting is both very casual and festive. The little favor bags by each place setting were filled with homemade caramel corn.

I made the candle holders from goblets turned upside down. Then I tied gold edged ribbons decorated with acorns and oak leaves around the candles.

The china is Noritake's Avalon pattern. I 've had it for about 25 years. Scott selected it and gave it to me for Christmas one year and then added more settings and pieces for several other gift-giving occasions. I do love this set of china because he chose it for me. I also like the classic and simple design.
Last year, we had about twelve guests. I had two tables set up in close proximity.

Now, I guess I better get on with my planning.
Thanksgiving is almost here.

It is so fun to be able to look back at last year ~ Now I'd better get planning for something extra special this year! God is so good and I am thankful for having more time to love my family.

Ginny

Beliefnet Quiz

2008-11-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

The top score on the list below represents the faith that Belief-O-Matic, in its less than infinite wisdom, thinks most closely matches my beliefs. However, even a score of 100% does not mean that my views are all shared by this faith, or vice versa.

Belief-O-Matic then lists another 26 faiths in order of how much they have in common with your professed beliefs. The higher a faith appears on this list, the more closely it aligns with your thinking.

How did the Belief-O-Matic do? I find it interesting that they think that out of all the choices, the test shows that Christian/Protestant was only number 8. Hmm. But it is kind of surprising to look at the results.

1. Seventh Day Adventist (100%)
2. Orthodox Quaker (92%)
3. Hinduism (90%)
4. Eastern Orthodox (88%)
5. Roman Catholic (88%)
6. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (85%)
7. Jehovah's Witness (85%)
8. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (84%)
9. Orthodox Judaism (81%)
10. Jainism (70%)
11. Islam (70%)
12. Sikhism (64%)
13. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (64%)
14. Liberal Quakers (58%)
15. Reform Judaism (50%)
16. Baha'i Faith (48%)
17. Theravada Buddhism (47%)
18. Mahayana Buddhism (46%)
19. Unitarian Universalism (46%)
20. Taoism (31%)
21. Neo-Pagan (28%)
22. New Age (21%)
23. Secular Humanism (21%)
24. Nontheist (18%)
25. Scientology (12%)
26. New Thought (11%)
27. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (10%)

To take the quiz yourself, you can click here.

Pilgrim

2008-11-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

You Are a Pilgrim

Like the pilgrims, you've felt persecuted for your beliefs from time to time.

You have a strong sense of right and wrong. Your morality sometimes makes you feel out of step with the modern world.

You may not go as far as moving across the world, but you still identify with the pilgrims.

Well, except for the whole stealing land and killing Indians thing.

Are You a Pilgrim or an Indian?

Actually, I do kind of identify with this blogthing. And I enjoy the cute clipart.

New Look, Unfinished Work

2008-11-21T07:46:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking of changing the front page of Blackberry Blessings. I impulsively started on it last night. It is not finished yet, I'll be adding things and changing the template a little more soon. It may change quite a bit more. Stay tuned.

Today I will be busy taking my older son to get another tattoo removal treatment. Oh, I so wish that he never had gotten them! This will be his third treatment. They are basically burning the skin with a laser, and the recovery is not comfortable at all. It will take about an hour. He has them on his hand and almost all of the way up one arm. He will more than likely need three more treatments, scheduled at least two months apart.

I have always disliked tattoos and was so frustrated when he got them. He has had such beautiful skin! I am just glad that he is able to get them removed.

Kitchen Tip Tuesdays - Organizing Your Kitchen, a Few Basic Ideas

2008-11-17T23:36:00.001-08:00

I'm just moving into a new house. (new to us, but it's a repo) My sons basically grew up in our former mountain home and don't remember living anywhere else as a family.

My younger son volunteered to help me unpack the kitchen.

I explained that the first we needed to accomplish was to thoroughly line and clean the cupboards, cabinets, and shelves. Then I went about figuring out the most efficient and useful way to use the cabinets in my new kitchen.

1. Frequently used glasses, mugs and plates should go near the dishwasher.
2. Stainless steel flatware should also be placed close to the dishwasher.
3. Cereals, flours, and grains shouldn't be stored in a cabinet near the stove to prolong shelf life.
4. Same thing as #3 for spices and herbs.
5. My "baking zone" is an area on the counter where I store my trusty old Kitchen Aid stand mixer. (20 years old!) Nearby drawers and shelves are going to be used for storing measuring cups and spoons, sugar and spices, my rolling pin, and assorted things I'll use for baking.
6. I store items less frequently used in areas that are less accessible. This includes items such as the turkey platter, ice cream maker, and special serving dishes. These items go on the highest shelves.
7. A drawer near the stove will hold wooden spoons, spatulas, and utensils needed while cooking on the stove top.
8. I have a special little cupboard for all of the items related to hot drinks such as cocoas and teas, as well as my Starbucks coffee. (opened coffee can be also stored in the freezer.) (I have Starbucks because my son works there and is given a coffee allotment each week.) The coffee maker and bean grinder are right below this little cupboard.

Every kitchen will be set up differently depending on the cabinet space available and family needs and preferences. I'm just sharing a few ideas that I've used over the years. I know that many of you are experiened Home Keepers, so I'm sure that you can add more tips in this area. In fact, if you have a tip for me please post it! I've just unpacked my pots and pans and cooked my first real meal last night, but I have a lot more to do!

For more Kitchen Tips, visit Tammy's Recipes!

The Best Intentions.....

2008-11-16T19:52:00.000-08:00

Haven't you heard about the road that is paved with good intentions? If you don't know what is is, just think of the opposite of heaven. Yes,they say that the road to ****** is paved with good intentions.

I fully intended to cook several recipes that I've found in my weekly Meatless Monday newsletter. Sadly, I've had several things come up and haven't done much cooking at all. I am planning a Meatless Meal this Monday. I am going to make the lentil soup featured in this week's newsletter and blog about it before next Monday. I'll catch up soon!

Meanwhile, we've made progress on the house. We had the palm trees trimmed in our backyard, and took 2000 pounds to the local landfill. The yard is looking more tidy and will be safer in case of a wildfire.

My biggest challenge right now is figuring out how to transfer pictures from my flash drive to my Mac.

Blessings

2008-11-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of fun things to blog about: blessings, family, and pictures of the progress that we've made on the new house. Unfortunately I can't get my pictures uploaded from my card reader to my Mac.

Please forgive the silly picture I posted last night!

I'll work on the uploading problem and be posting again soon!

Meatless Monday will be back next week!

2008-11-10T10:29:00.000-08:00

School's out for the rest of this month! I am going to use this time to settle into my new house and continue packing up my old one. The last two weeks were really busy with preparing for student led conferences and report cards, but now it is time for me to focus on relaxing and catching up with things I need to do for my family.

It is really a blessing to have no commute! I can walk to work in about five minutes! After driving up and down the mountain for the last twenty years I am seriously enjoying being so close to my school.

The Palm Canyon house it really starting to feel like home. I enjoyed deciding how to set up the kitchen, where to store canned goods, and how to set up the baking area. I don't even have pots and pans unpacked, though, so I haven't cooked at all yet.

I'm committed to encouraging my family to eat more healthy meals, I'm just not blogging about it today! I've been saving up recipes to try from the weekly Meatless Monday newsletter, and next week I'll post pictures and recipes.

The holiday season is challenging because many of our "traditional" foods are loaded with sugar and bad fats. Many people pack on the pounds over the holidays, and end up sorry for it in January. I can't afford to do that. I'll be blogging about the challenges of healthy eating over the holidays.

Polls ~ Rights Violated?

2008-11-04T12:47:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to be able to vote. I will be traveling back up the mountain this afternoon to cast my ballot. There are a lot of very important things being decided here in California.

There is a polling place right here in my school's library. I've watched people coming in to vote in a constant steady stream today. The children have been watching the people coming and going and are very interested in this election. I think it's a good thing for the children to observe.

We had citizen/voter/grumpy person come into our school and demand that the assistant principal move the buses out of the way so she could park in the bus loading zone. Said we were violating her rights. What nerve. First off, this place is primarily a school. It is for little ones. Secondly there are a lot of other spots for people to park. Thirdly, the buses which transport the children are not here very long. It all got worked out eventually. She was probably just in a hurry.

Stop and smell the roses, everyone. We are privileged to be able to vote and live in this great democracy. Enjoy.

Happy Sunday.

2008-11-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

We started sleeping at the new house this week. That means that I have a 5 minute walk to school each day.

Report cards were due to the principal by Friday, and mine aren't ready. We have parent conferences this week, and most of them are tomorrow. We do student-led conferences, which means that the children lead the parents around the room and show them what they are learning. We post the California State Standards, and the parent is able to see how his/her child is doing.There is a lot of preparation because we put together portfolios of each child's work.

After this week will go "off track" until December. I'm happy because I will haved time to set up my new kitchen properly.

And we had a good strong rain last night. This means that the fire danger has been greatly reduced in the mountains!!

I Added a New Widget!

2008-10-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

I added the "Followers widget" to this blog. You can see it at the top of my sidebar. Please join my blog! Right now I have 0 followers!

I Am a Snapdragon

2008-10-24T21:52:00.000-07:00

I am a
Snapdragon

What Flower
Are You?

Hello, I'm Still Here!

2008-10-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

Lately I've had little time to blog. Moving, (still) and getting ready for parent conferences and report cards have kept me truly busy.

Dad is still in the hospital (extended care) and I'm hoping he gets to go home soon. I know that it's hard for him to be there, and he's being as cheerful as he can be. His roommate died on Friday. Sad. They had the curtains closed, but he heard the whole thing. The gentleman's daughter came in and spoke to her dad after he had passed.

Dad has been getting physical therapy and is getting stronger. He has recovered from an infection in his leg.

I'll be getting back on a regular blogging schedule soon. The move will be over, report cards finished, and I have most of the month of November OFF!

I plan to rest and settle in to my new home.

I'll Be Back Soon...

2008-10-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

I am busy getting the new house ready. I'll be posting pictures soon! We should move soon! I hope to post new pictures this evening.

Farkle ~ A Frugal Fun Dice Game

2008-10-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Farkle is a simple dice game that is fun for family gatherings including children. It's an easy thing to pack, you only need dice, a shaker, paper for writing down the scores, and a you're set. I recently found a webstite with the "official" rules and also an online version of the game. Go here to check it out out. Nothing to buy except dice, and you can have hours of family fun! This game is an old one.

Update/Fires and Housing

2008-10-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

Things are getting accomplished at the Canyon House, very slowly. We have a lot more to do! We'll be moving in soon.

Our local area (the Inland Empire) has been suffering "devil winds" for the last 24 hours. The winds would be fine if they didn't bring out human "fire bugs." The freeway that I usually frequent was closed last night due to a two mile long fire. Mostly vegetation, but also nearby buildings and a paper mill were consumed by the flames. It spread on the tops of palm and eucalyptus trees. People abandoned their vehicles on the freeway because of the heat and smoke.

I was glad that I'd decided to take the long way home, down Waterman Avenue. I saw the black and gray smoke in the distance and heard the fire engines screaming and racing to the fire at about 6:00 p.m. I didn't know that there was a fire when I made the decision not to get on the freeway. I called son Will, who was at work in Riverside and due to take that route. He was able to avoid the traffic too.

The 215 freeway was still closed at 3:30 a.m.

Who knows was today will bring? I think that it will be a great day!

There's Smoke, But Where's the Fire?

2008-10-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning at 5:30 and got dressed for work. When I went outside to get into my little red Kia I noticed a strong smoky smell. I looked up and saw that there is a smoky haze all over our little valley.

No way can I leave my home without finding out what it's all about. My son is asleep downstairs, and my pets are here. I remember all too well having to evacuate last year and in '05, during the Old Fire. You can read about my experiences last year here. Very vivid memories of trying to scramble and load two dogs, a parrot and pictures into a car and drive down the hill.

I went back inside and cranked up my old computer to see if I could find out where the smoke is coming from. Answer: probably from the Camp Pendleton fire in Orange County. It's pretty hard to believe, but the fire department can't find any fire up here.

I'm off to school now, pretty confident that we are not in immediate danger of mandatory evacuations. I am thankful that we are moving. I just wish that the painting was done so that we can move to the new place.

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Tammy's Spicy Pepperoni

2008-10-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Last winter I used Tammy's recipe to make spicy pepperoni. My family really enjoyed the results, and I think it turned out well, except that perhaps I cooked it a bit too long. My photos did not come out nearly as nice as Tammy's, though. My older son, Matthew, especially loved it that I prepared this spicy treat. Most of it went into the freezer and was used (fast) for homemade pizza.

You can find Tammy's Recipe here.

I am hesitant to recommend recipes which use ground beef due to concerns about ground beef safety. I do eat it, but I believe we need to limit our intake of beef for health reasons. Tammy's recipe is yummy, though and I'd highly recommend it to anyone.

A Fitting Message, Written Long Ago

2008-10-02T06:31:00.000-07:00

I received an email this morning from Lake Gregory Community Church. Pastor Dan sent this message:

Isaiah wrote from the Lord to the people of his day...(in the form of a prayerful statement and a challenge to his countrymen)...

"The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock." -- Isaiah 26:3-4 (NASB)

As we take God's message to heart, we find solid footing for our hearts, our minds and our lives. If you want to avoid the confusion and near insanity of a life lived by only watching the world, then be sure to be a part of these times of worship and exploring the relevance the Lord's Words given in times of crisis. I believe you won't want to miss these opportunities.

With prayer for peace in the midst of crises,

I just wanted to share it with you.
Have a Great Thursday!

Today is Monday.... A Few Stumbles

2008-09-29T21:30:00.000-07:00

I had kind of a rough day at school. Several children were unkind to others. Everyday I work to help them understand the Golden Rule, to treat others with the respect that they'd like. Most of them are pretty good, but occasionally I have to take time from our lessons to deal with situations that are unpleasant. I won't go into details about it now though.

To learn how to creat furry bears with pipe cleaners and polymer clay: go here

Indian Food Forever have a wonderful Vegetable Curry Recipe that I'd love to try. I'm adding it to my list for after the big move.

123 Coloring pages This site has all kinds of coloring pages for children. Worth a visit.

Craft Pudding

Stepcase Lifehack's list of 80 How-To Sites Worth Bookmarking is really worth a visit.

Have a great Tuesday!
GinnyBerry

Blackberry Blessings

Chloe, the Best Rat Terrier

One Fall View

Thanksgiving

Blog Share

Mountain House

5 reasons I haven't Been Blogging Lately.

Happy Easter, Friends!

"Fire and Dynamite" | Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors | OFFICIAL MUSIC VI...

German Roses

Getting To Know You

Happy Father's Day

1 Blog Added to My Blogroll.

Laughter

Blogging.... blogging... blogging......

Random Photo Wednesday

Does He Remind You of Someone?

Good Times in Pasadena

May

4.3 Earthquake

Pot Farming in Downtown Riverside/Naugles Nostalgia

A Better Picture

Blessings To You All/It's complicated!

Dad before.

I'm back

Grow it in a Pot: Zucchini

Roses for Mother's Day

A Mother's Day Basket

Happy Mother's Day, and Don't Drink Too Much!

It's Warming UP!

Baby David & Family

Oak Trees

INR 2.5

Reflections

Hello! Happy Spring!

Friday

A Mountain View.....

Next week I'll do better....36

A Verse to Consider

When times are good, be happy;but when times are bad, consider:God has made the oneas well as the other.Therefore, a man cannot discoveranything about his future.

Ecclesiastes 7:14

More First Grade Secrets

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Cake Mixes

A New Week! Fun Times in First Grade

Keebler's Peanut Butter Cracker Recall

First Grade News

Sheepish

Hello

Wordless Wednesday: Bouganvillas!

Roses Just Planted

Experimenting with Photo Booth: Will and Tawny

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Link to a Food Storage Video

One Year Anniversary Blessings

The Jacuzzi is working.

Unexpected Visits

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Incoherent

The First Day of a Brand New Year. 2009 is here!

My New Year's Resolutions

Thrifty Basmati Rice Main Dish

Blogging Adventures

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Crispy Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

A Quick Gift Idea

Saturday: Our 33rd Aniversary

Unless The Lord...: Dangerous Chocolate Cake

Thursday

Confessions Of A CF Husband: Coincidence?

Rainy Blessings

Saturday

Blood Thinners, INR, and Stroke Prevention

Holiday Ideas Links for Children and Adults

Teacher, is Santa Claus Real?

Friendship Blessings

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Date Canned Goods

Questions

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Fruit Baskets

No Divorce

Broken Link.....Fixed!

Giving Thanks!

Psalm 100

Works for Me: Frugal and Green~ Habitat ReStores

When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one
as well as the other.
Therefore, a man cannot discover
anything about his future.