tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14896960276134657922024-03-18T12:47:47.642-07:00Mountain Top SpiceMarilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.comBlogger570125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-70368085256621862742024-03-12T15:36:00.000-07:002024-03-12T15:36:34.495-07:00Spring Sunshine Arrives! <p><span style="font-size: large;">Spring sunshine has arrived - oh glory! After a long wet winter - what joy it is to have days in a row of sunshine! Springtime birds are arriving, and we can hear the sound of robins singing, while rain drips from the rooftops - signifying Spring's arrival. Even though it is muddy and rainy this time of year, we know that March and April showers bring May flowers, and for that, we rejoice! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6FspB23Iq5ZgixIuCfaERCr7lImnTbMjur8mA7g2L8Rn-rPUL-9Id46xiEWDqO5DjZzZmKQ9UmY4OgqxRG-yem_SMcohX47qUcWZ1NlATijDkoBaHgMDgXQUnqpecALzGi9Phi-xVApz-wOYToyFvy6cml0u8VppQ349CLtWyDy1ETq8GGjlrDF2C4G5/s691/20240304_163115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="691" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6FspB23Iq5ZgixIuCfaERCr7lImnTbMjur8mA7g2L8Rn-rPUL-9Id46xiEWDqO5DjZzZmKQ9UmY4OgqxRG-yem_SMcohX47qUcWZ1NlATijDkoBaHgMDgXQUnqpecALzGi9Phi-xVApz-wOYToyFvy6cml0u8VppQ349CLtWyDy1ETq8GGjlrDF2C4G5/w640-h582/20240304_163115.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our area has little marshes that fill up with water in the springtime, <br />and there is always a variety of ducks enjoying the water! This is a male mallard drake enjoying the muddy spring waters! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-OWat2fET6B5XsZXR9fpsdvakrhJT30-lEMuAjmBEg8uv_E4SkW_s19lT-qNkVUKSiHeE8-LabUMi6ErYJC6-16_7uyNk80WOObTWaEvZVUckwyK54BmdG0ClumGAWSpGpNFhMZiGO4KL4gSyLBqmQHNvx2hFbnPDx-3eTC4G_LolJ8plJ6MBOevTSun/s837/20240305_120412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-OWat2fET6B5XsZXR9fpsdvakrhJT30-lEMuAjmBEg8uv_E4SkW_s19lT-qNkVUKSiHeE8-LabUMi6ErYJC6-16_7uyNk80WOObTWaEvZVUckwyK54BmdG0ClumGAWSpGpNFhMZiGO4KL4gSyLBqmQHNvx2hFbnPDx-3eTC4G_LolJ8plJ6MBOevTSun/w640-h480/20240305_120412.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just a few days ago - this was our backyard scene. A snowstorm came through with about 5" of snow overnight - and it was 12 degrees the next morning! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79pJ7FPUC65UZezuxsPkIixRn6nEtXQMDYTtk7pEjln-dVq5R1CXMverVFwT_ASYUaAXyGIDYF2GbQL8OInF_CvaqvVYQvD4YtZJrR3S04uDrv_m41PNn8x4oAwv31C4jh80NBRmKgnqS_BpJ3mUc9v9lEIfzkoxAYTR-0wLS0HEKQHEYdHUE2dPctIXW/s837/20240305_121212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79pJ7FPUC65UZezuxsPkIixRn6nEtXQMDYTtk7pEjln-dVq5R1CXMverVFwT_ASYUaAXyGIDYF2GbQL8OInF_CvaqvVYQvD4YtZJrR3S04uDrv_m41PNn8x4oAwv31C4jh80NBRmKgnqS_BpJ3mUc9v9lEIfzkoxAYTR-0wLS0HEKQHEYdHUE2dPctIXW/w640-h480/20240305_121212.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The fir trees were blanketed with snow, creating the illusion of snow-covered fingers!<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59MOT3qxq8LZItLhPJ2Rs3xJnhG4ITE1s312YyMVdGl5JPuiymxkIRG3_crGka1n_6wg1uJ1WcITZvBgEs5oOUevjOUt49XFypM2eqnhcD4EyYfIVOnTdLYYxpsyWLYP6G10ue1R5msWAmRV1q_mIoetv_LOcIJ7iWAQiTZSGquFwGMPAxLDUhe-Ysgaw/s837/20240305_122342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59MOT3qxq8LZItLhPJ2Rs3xJnhG4ITE1s312YyMVdGl5JPuiymxkIRG3_crGka1n_6wg1uJ1WcITZvBgEs5oOUevjOUt49XFypM2eqnhcD4EyYfIVOnTdLYYxpsyWLYP6G10ue1R5msWAmRV1q_mIoetv_LOcIJ7iWAQiTZSGquFwGMPAxLDUhe-Ysgaw/w640-h480/20240305_122342.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The sun was high in the sky with brilliant blue skies - a perfect day to romp around in our forest with Riley - I knew the snow wouldn't last - and we were out enjoying it while we could! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c3c9EqAGUy5ZlkUJKLJT9OdSUKV0oUjXzZ29cNUUc_hyphenhyphentmpUOQyLbqBx2ydNyOwDWDbiWQ65HKIsdB2gc-yyZzlgV6-5lwRMhlLQZsEMfhGDiLjcBNWDOORM67ps_lubt8BTsp4eAXnZtE1y740s50UTL1mRriyvlzHmE1RKMSAI-IHCWfGku7Nn6cHX/s837/20240305_174503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c3c9EqAGUy5ZlkUJKLJT9OdSUKV0oUjXzZ29cNUUc_hyphenhyphentmpUOQyLbqBx2ydNyOwDWDbiWQ65HKIsdB2gc-yyZzlgV6-5lwRMhlLQZsEMfhGDiLjcBNWDOORM67ps_lubt8BTsp4eAXnZtE1y740s50UTL1mRriyvlzHmE1RKMSAI-IHCWfGku7Nn6cHX/w640-h480/20240305_174503.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">That evening, a glorious sunset filled the skies, and the snow reflected the pink-raptured tones. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgvtUi0vtMtt8KxZjIBSl9EJNCZo9miZiikQOAFC_Qf7LJBpMcUZoXSxGK-DbkA99OuUKpG9oFqqju_haWWhKbRhKHYp_LVvEQ3LWmDh7GvbQfbMjr5de-6BVLouKRhuFTIkook-TFoPOUJsHt0G8M8qZ-F0j1yJeeS1QVILQoM9s2jxBvSu_bhnKm69h/s837/20240307_112614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgvtUi0vtMtt8KxZjIBSl9EJNCZo9miZiikQOAFC_Qf7LJBpMcUZoXSxGK-DbkA99OuUKpG9oFqqju_haWWhKbRhKHYp_LVvEQ3LWmDh7GvbQfbMjr5de-6BVLouKRhuFTIkook-TFoPOUJsHt0G8M8qZ-F0j1yJeeS1QVILQoM9s2jxBvSu_bhnKm69h/w640-h480/20240307_112614.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">A dear member of our community many years ago erected a cross on this rock outcropping next to a major highway in our area. Vandals have destroyed it several times. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMX2LTKSFZ6UxrIDEZEhESrZ4Pgdtle0ZCrvIW8y-UWmVpR4rIciEqPe15aN5PRoz_QaoyFXNSut7yZ3vJn7YIBuPE7LQlzLohWXP8lOyCDp9JIdwDHVF4abkvSqoQtyCA6lWKP9HEws624lQzzwxARus2NPZC60gg5M1EkNRbzPYrcOGC9aFbZEJ8W0bO/s837/20240307_112620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMX2LTKSFZ6UxrIDEZEhESrZ4Pgdtle0ZCrvIW8y-UWmVpR4rIciEqPe15aN5PRoz_QaoyFXNSut7yZ3vJn7YIBuPE7LQlzLohWXP8lOyCDp9JIdwDHVF4abkvSqoQtyCA6lWKP9HEws624lQzzwxARus2NPZC60gg5M1EkNRbzPYrcOGC9aFbZEJ8W0bO/w640-h480/20240307_112620.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">They used to have a light shining on it at night, but the vandals destroyed and took everything. So for several months, there was no cross and it saddened us all. Finally, the decision was made to erect one again, and this time, security cameras were placed facing the cross, and it is tied down very securely. It is a sad thing to have this kind of vandalism in our neighborhood! <br /><br /><br />With the bright sunshine, I drove out to see the cross. It now stands in the shining sunlight overlooking the river. It was a glorious sight to see! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqwswry2eArenSdW9rEXXPBxOffB2aJzVFLzMvMAEdUCX91fu9UHS1-BbmlDdAvA59evQK4_wx8tPLqx8NEgbx58JzYiVh6_N6FO8m59-hereROdeE67AqvQVCGFl-IfrcRi8FVVHyBNOmanolMzYuyf6uvVSQW7JE8qMgqpTP-tHfmLHs0p6UjZnNymT/s801/20240307_112930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="801" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqwswry2eArenSdW9rEXXPBxOffB2aJzVFLzMvMAEdUCX91fu9UHS1-BbmlDdAvA59evQK4_wx8tPLqx8NEgbx58JzYiVh6_N6FO8m59-hereROdeE67AqvQVCGFl-IfrcRi8FVVHyBNOmanolMzYuyf6uvVSQW7JE8qMgqpTP-tHfmLHs0p6UjZnNymT/w640-h502/20240307_112930.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The rock outcropping, where the cross is placed, provides a scenic view of the Pend Oreille River, a glorious scene to behold any day of the year! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUm7cjHACnPYg4tUiciEVTDqn4sfcZ7ziX7T1k2t6Ma4XL3nls66puZk7dbAc0KScSPC9O3ur0AnjrujGCfldJY6mhO-b-czSeXjD1UW9yxglWJrXVBnbLqO0fbsnwyHEAT48uxWif0tWc2OULaC5deFth_OPbO4UFPPEugEFWc_AfXn0HcCu42vDAeuH6/s837/20240307_123801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUm7cjHACnPYg4tUiciEVTDqn4sfcZ7ziX7T1k2t6Ma4XL3nls66puZk7dbAc0KScSPC9O3ur0AnjrujGCfldJY6mhO-b-czSeXjD1UW9yxglWJrXVBnbLqO0fbsnwyHEAT48uxWif0tWc2OULaC5deFth_OPbO4UFPPEugEFWc_AfXn0HcCu42vDAeuH6/w640-h480/20240307_123801.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to soak up all the sunshine I could. Winter was drawing to a close, and it was a magnificent day to enjoy the remnants of Winter. So, I drove by our little mountain lake, and it was still covered in solid ice! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLy1csfRgeW7CIXyUzBy8UzmCRz_rq6mW2cR2Z7yMANDLfybpqwFkFZ5BLh256qVb0_dZRAhpDmy27igbodRwDV4iJ-x44qQ-P3FsbwQcrLSbGZaOZgud1daeovALrLl6bMNgfBudnao-ifchX_0Jj40n0zAPR_tH4sG6YJzlh6Rmc1YQClfm524M35PH4/s837/20240307_123806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLy1csfRgeW7CIXyUzBy8UzmCRz_rq6mW2cR2Z7yMANDLfybpqwFkFZ5BLh256qVb0_dZRAhpDmy27igbodRwDV4iJ-x44qQ-P3FsbwQcrLSbGZaOZgud1daeovALrLl6bMNgfBudnao-ifchX_0Jj40n0zAPR_tH4sG6YJzlh6Rmc1YQClfm524M35PH4/w640-h480/20240307_123806.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The absence of ice fishermen can be attributed to the recent string of warm days. The entire lake was still completely frozen solid, but I did not test it out! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKq2bckWQVVPx1KVodkT2hrTXL1J1IuBpOOGAPADIH6Z8kLJF5cJRiNik5F_kuRitZ6ZlMmXbI9PHpNrZdC9OtRd0FWC1-wwEo71criC-54gPWVvyf69C09_cUNbiMQXA-OOJfIUBj8yN1oba-L9hQEp0P-A6Mh8qpnwv99J0JPjL0lWl9GkIphFSUx3_W/s837/20240307_124253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKq2bckWQVVPx1KVodkT2hrTXL1J1IuBpOOGAPADIH6Z8kLJF5cJRiNik5F_kuRitZ6ZlMmXbI9PHpNrZdC9OtRd0FWC1-wwEo71criC-54gPWVvyf69C09_cUNbiMQXA-OOJfIUBj8yN1oba-L9hQEp0P-A6Mh8qpnwv99J0JPjL0lWl9GkIphFSUx3_W/w640-h480/20240307_124253.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I enjoyed the view from the dock. It was just beautiful - and the eagles were off in the distance - I could hear them calling to each other, but they never got close enough for me to photograph them. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-uIx2ndRoc5ZCRGJpoC0_KfT1GDqFv1cHYe2_8e8I7SqNOErkCBIR0m2tSyEeSrLvj6yxm5xfSIjYZknDjD9Y_GGmZx0JNRMS2NfiNmyHKw5PNiQvqhE89x9rg-iDN8KGl1oqDkl0BNNuZez7eYIPuDx9QFXwT2QiH0GOyYOT2zuNb1yFlbIxdLhl3cL/s837/20240307_124538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-uIx2ndRoc5ZCRGJpoC0_KfT1GDqFv1cHYe2_8e8I7SqNOErkCBIR0m2tSyEeSrLvj6yxm5xfSIjYZknDjD9Y_GGmZx0JNRMS2NfiNmyHKw5PNiQvqhE89x9rg-iDN8KGl1oqDkl0BNNuZez7eYIPuDx9QFXwT2QiH0GOyYOT2zuNb1yFlbIxdLhl3cL/w640-h480/20240307_124538.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Leaving the lake, driving through the forest - it was as if Winter was speaking to my heart, <i> "See how beautiful I am! You're going to miss me!" </i> I agreed --- but I argued back... "<i>Winter, you've had your day, you know I love you but ... now it is time for Spring!" </i><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHb1FznlD9M53a6LlTpn31OONSIZHI53vkvY_VAOuw78Gj1XinLQmZDPT4RFbnUQ-PuAjzAot7QcRXW8RcXM8MXBtMtdi1NtBgfgjubQzrzQVNPCOzRxVgtG-9-cJEH9Q8vuQWdvUSyhVGzHS6lv-9jYjX8600XgwwjLgGMSb4SmLRmCaNljD3ZLSfyqK/s837/20240307_124554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHb1FznlD9M53a6LlTpn31OONSIZHI53vkvY_VAOuw78Gj1XinLQmZDPT4RFbnUQ-PuAjzAot7QcRXW8RcXM8MXBtMtdi1NtBgfgjubQzrzQVNPCOzRxVgtG-9-cJEH9Q8vuQWdvUSyhVGzHS6lv-9jYjX8600XgwwjLgGMSb4SmLRmCaNljD3ZLSfyqK/w640-h480/20240307_124554.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just between you and me - I really love Winter - and scenes like this make my heart so happy. <br />But I am ready to see some green now too...! <br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="420" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0WPiavrkMHg" width="505" youtube-src-id="0WPiavrkMHg"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">This is my newest video - and you will recognize the cross picture :) The music is piano instrumental, and so inspirational to listen to as we are focused on the Easter/Passover/Lent season. </span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The cross's power and the impact it has had on our lives since that day over 2000+ years ago cannot be denied, no matter how people may try to destroy it. Calvary's cross was a pivotal point in time - the death of Christ dates our calendars. The life of Christ has transformed and changed our world. You can try to take the cross down, or deny that Christ ever lived - but it won't change the fact that the Power of the Cross still lives on today through the redemption offered to each and every one of us through the blood of Jesus Christ and His triumphant resurrection defeating death, hell and the grave. His Spirit was sent to live with us on the Day of Pentecost, and now He lives in our hearts. What a joy it is to know the power of the cross in our lives! </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">If you have not experienced Jesus Christ in your life and would like to know more, please message me - I would love to talk to you! </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hebrews 12:2 "Looking unto Jesus, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">the author and finisher of our faith; </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hebrews 13:20-21 "Now the God of peace </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> that great shepherd of the sheep through the blood </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">of the everlasting covenant, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">make you perfect in every good work to do his will, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">forever and ever, Amen." </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioE6nUw1ZZfoX2EiTgyL1v0H3NEWNXSTHCD_koWhMaSJbwXHoV0caD9V9-xydUid4WdeNfvAs_CO90hBxSz9zrFl1Fjhm7FAFzSSG0zNRoMKQI9LoOhi7HXQX8cowhNreHZ_EVOHKq4ARDFfHKLWS9thraPFUwiBSWH9QJP92MgPY5WiqCadzKvoYBUTjD/s5616/_MG_6717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3744" data-original-width="5616" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioE6nUw1ZZfoX2EiTgyL1v0H3NEWNXSTHCD_koWhMaSJbwXHoV0caD9V9-xydUid4WdeNfvAs_CO90hBxSz9zrFl1Fjhm7FAFzSSG0zNRoMKQI9LoOhi7HXQX8cowhNreHZ_EVOHKq4ARDFfHKLWS9thraPFUwiBSWH9QJP92MgPY5WiqCadzKvoYBUTjD/w640-h426/_MG_6717.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today we held our monthly Community Prayer Meeting. Among the many things we prayed for, one of the most important was for people's hearts to find encouragement in the Lord. <br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Many people feel discouraged about the future and are wondering what the days ahead may hold. While none of us knows what the future holds, we can rest assured in the promise that God does. So we lift all these needs to the Lord who knows that no matter how desperate the world scene is - how political systems are in turmoil, how so many evil things cause the deaths of innocent people that we love - no matter how traumatized things may get - we are held in the palm of the Lord's hands, and He will take good care of us! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />Be encouraged, take heart - God is with us :) <br /><br /><br /><br />Psalm 91:1-2 <br />He that dwelleth in the <br />secret place of the most High <br />shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">God bless each of you, I love you all dearly, and pray for you every day!</span></div></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-29645691871271302322024-03-05T11:21:00.000-08:002024-03-05T11:21:06.986-08:00Winter Arrives - in March! <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Once again, winter has arrived in March! Many people in the comments shared that they have had an unusual winter, just like us here in North Idaho. In late January, we experienced frigid temperatures, with the lowest reaching -23 degrees, not factoring in windchill. A chinook or warming wind arrived two days later, increasing temperatures by over 60 degrees in just one day. This rapid warming caused all the accumulated snow to melt, giving us a taste of spring and allowing me to do some gardening. February followed a similar pattern - abundant rain, with occasional snow, but a hint of spring in the air. March came and it's been nonstop snowing ever since. Every day in March has seen snowfall, and today marks the 4th day. Despite my love for snow and knowing how much we need the moisture, I am not complaining, but sharing how strange this winter has been! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Pwtd1RvOEs2Gq5cK7CfOvOnoSZQErHi0NDYU2BU7zPd_6JidNYa3f9RxOqKiPFppyZMcJ-ChArPC5TLH6usbgocUsppZF2l0m2bXibpbuc-8TpBehtGgiYsXMdskyOZIoPlG7w4HHn4Ifho4SeltFeZvy95ZRYqg9gby5iV-EMQAB8PHlaoR7yTHcDlU/s837/20240303_073032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Pwtd1RvOEs2Gq5cK7CfOvOnoSZQErHi0NDYU2BU7zPd_6JidNYa3f9RxOqKiPFppyZMcJ-ChArPC5TLH6usbgocUsppZF2l0m2bXibpbuc-8TpBehtGgiYsXMdskyOZIoPlG7w4HHn4Ifho4SeltFeZvy95ZRYqg9gby5iV-EMQAB8PHlaoR7yTHcDlU/w400-h300/20240303_073032.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My garden is under its new blanket of March snow!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vC7TigGNa1x-J2bft0okxAieSlxm0nmTXZH_mvOQZ67mXIwQBaOUxrbhTqBcHC-MWsrMmwvuv9_YhjDhk3OuJ2ZJ_spdInL_8T25Z0lvkBUc75IA-ryHkGLhznGYSS5SHwEfwbsCcEqU0H6D4QLAcsTdrZAO4_LOzucSgt01CDuugba_ZoVLHTUpQB04/s628/20240303_073015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vC7TigGNa1x-J2bft0okxAieSlxm0nmTXZH_mvOQZ67mXIwQBaOUxrbhTqBcHC-MWsrMmwvuv9_YhjDhk3OuJ2ZJ_spdInL_8T25Z0lvkBUc75IA-ryHkGLhznGYSS5SHwEfwbsCcEqU0H6D4QLAcsTdrZAO4_LOzucSgt01CDuugba_ZoVLHTUpQB04/s320/20240303_073015.jpg" width="240" /></a><br /><br /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Little bits of joy - sunshine sparkling on the crisp snow on my clematis - awaiting spring patiently!<br /><br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAP06I1Gv6EpvwHbfIXIrfLQwnCdt0rRnKdwpnL5adfuTh2qYOt6aLXFMZ-1E6PKjqma95yUT4701Y3tzRghWnLleE0NwDEK6KE51FRI22pFIsy9z7_v1ilJHdiBQHxLm-1p6SVuK7YX-Pt_pqP0AbEYzOusFSi9AFUkTOM48y7hlUzL87OEWXfXS1aS1/s837/20240303_073028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAP06I1Gv6EpvwHbfIXIrfLQwnCdt0rRnKdwpnL5adfuTh2qYOt6aLXFMZ-1E6PKjqma95yUT4701Y3tzRghWnLleE0NwDEK6KE51FRI22pFIsy9z7_v1ilJHdiBQHxLm-1p6SVuK7YX-Pt_pqP0AbEYzOusFSi9AFUkTOM48y7hlUzL87OEWXfXS1aS1/w400-h300/20240303_073028.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Winter showcasing its glorious beauty! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlOVp4FBdEqpMP8jCbfcMJfPi9jPjIezDNkuKnIyHvvAhYxC6__yE0vj2CCr_P0DTjMKGz6N00aU9_xAB445paxyzvkhcHRRyFSG0hkFXLHYSyx20Ut6nZflTv0gxFHaWlbwbkkQ8wZP57wmVT3nZFO7DipLEYscpjMWGEil1ZwAfwrDWZLoxpb20jtJF/s837/20240303_075411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlOVp4FBdEqpMP8jCbfcMJfPi9jPjIezDNkuKnIyHvvAhYxC6__yE0vj2CCr_P0DTjMKGz6N00aU9_xAB445paxyzvkhcHRRyFSG0hkFXLHYSyx20Ut6nZflTv0gxFHaWlbwbkkQ8wZP57wmVT3nZFO7DipLEYscpjMWGEil1ZwAfwrDWZLoxpb20jtJF/w400-h300/20240303_075411.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I think Riley likes the sunshine too! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLeWX-c9RBQDY19pCwl7d1QBL7qvFPD7Wr_gQDWkLDEjB6jXGRT1HgB6JhWls5EGEREIrwnZ7wB-07GnoxLLHGhLwE7HFEKqKCIh-sfC8P9VWIVEQbVXQKaIEm2WSAXxngAM90RUjrmskp0vEZ9Por7rwndzUBjZFGIm_wb6puJTV-TpvC6aR1HtBUskTv/s837/20240303_075404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLeWX-c9RBQDY19pCwl7d1QBL7qvFPD7Wr_gQDWkLDEjB6jXGRT1HgB6JhWls5EGEREIrwnZ7wB-07GnoxLLHGhLwE7HFEKqKCIh-sfC8P9VWIVEQbVXQKaIEm2WSAXxngAM90RUjrmskp0vEZ9Por7rwndzUBjZFGIm_wb6puJTV-TpvC6aR1HtBUskTv/w640-h480/20240303_075404.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Oh! It is a glorious day when the sun comes out with peeks of blue skies! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUV5ubyNOebMk6j5PZmcykg0a8qZSZsylaF3qZpCOhfUFKQ7Vk-X7et1ceqv5IjJ8wZZcVeFm1DwJtk89nIFQc3XhRU7KoAMedCmTFlYOUjNtJxdVtadKLHAATFS-cui5XhLyWaRM_GXyPwwfxc_ykP-dmOqM391J1zHcIiDBtFZsR0VGDIUCxrHLoFKk/s1013/20240229_073938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1013" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUV5ubyNOebMk6j5PZmcykg0a8qZSZsylaF3qZpCOhfUFKQ7Vk-X7et1ceqv5IjJ8wZZcVeFm1DwJtk89nIFQc3XhRU7KoAMedCmTFlYOUjNtJxdVtadKLHAATFS-cui5XhLyWaRM_GXyPwwfxc_ykP-dmOqM391J1zHcIiDBtFZsR0VGDIUCxrHLoFKk/w640-h396/20240229_073938.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Last week, as Riley and I were walking, we saw this large elk herd on our neighbor's property. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2yFcVUeyFGFeXi4N9CBu3ymHvWg7s_TMDnfC581z5iChOhdRBL9dOU1pIojBJ41SVwKNQFddqa9DUJLh-PnuL-52MzWjqAptOtuX1xjdjrw9E8tLBhIFWEvviuVQhlmbL0NYyP8KHu43_nobU4r-NrSh0UcKHceyaL3-XC0tCeL06zDff0us-DLOkepBh/s945/20240229_074308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="945" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2yFcVUeyFGFeXi4N9CBu3ymHvWg7s_TMDnfC581z5iChOhdRBL9dOU1pIojBJ41SVwKNQFddqa9DUJLh-PnuL-52MzWjqAptOtuX1xjdjrw9E8tLBhIFWEvviuVQhlmbL0NYyP8KHu43_nobU4r-NrSh0UcKHceyaL3-XC0tCeL06zDff0us-DLOkepBh/w640-h426/20240229_074308.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Elk are very skittish, and as soon as I stopped walking, and took out my camera - they moved quickly away, <br />back into the cover of the forest. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnStFIkxgdQ47IhtLY1pLJ3aRSc6mWtWW0q9uuMAElcGvHygk9N_AcvEkVlBW7WEsklJo99-i33-YSs9AezJdfRI4aZNbOe1XyxCxNHzHAOr7CGOHZxk-n4pLZnlRyWN13seJuIhDuqrvWixhC_uCU5_H9NtmDhWXSJu0LaBZOd-P5ElcOa7yX0L-kzhw/s628/20240302_112909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnStFIkxgdQ47IhtLY1pLJ3aRSc6mWtWW0q9uuMAElcGvHygk9N_AcvEkVlBW7WEsklJo99-i33-YSs9AezJdfRI4aZNbOe1XyxCxNHzHAOr7CGOHZxk-n4pLZnlRyWN13seJuIhDuqrvWixhC_uCU5_H9NtmDhWXSJu0LaBZOd-P5ElcOa7yX0L-kzhw/w480-h640/20240302_112909.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In my keto journey, I've been using almond milk, and making my own rather than using dairy. All in limited quantities of course - but here is my process for making almond milk. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">HOMEMADE ALMOND MILK</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1 cup organic almonds</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">5 cups water</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Dash of salt</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mix all ingredients in a bowl, cover, and let sit overnight. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In the morning, drain the liquid. Add almonds to the blender, with 5 cups of fresh water. Blend on high until smooth. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Using a nut milk bag, or clean tea towel, strain almonds from the milk, squeezing until the almond meal is dry. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pour milk into a glass container. Stays good for 4-5 days. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">NOTE: Almond meal can be dried and used as almond meal flour - spread on parchment paper on the sheet pan and bake at 200 degrees until dry to touch about 1 hour. Refrigerate.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Then... once you have your homemade almond meal from your almonds - you can stretch that 1 cup of almonds a little farther, and you can make homemade Sourdough Almond Crackers! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">HOMEMADE SOURDOUGH ALMOND CRACKERS</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UWQOVyP6ixN9l2FvvQTmZmOaTpY9u2HBVBEDvOiSbtKJjBBDSBnTGQXF46T94t_wbTELUGBJUwxSueSmE53XQw1nRDYztExkufcBb4wXo0pr0_WoE5l7tgITOo13bq3wfjw516cVHNxZr7jBMZ3BJDmlNqr_TUG7lqa97ahP5251Zu82iqmBDgOQpmJw/s4000/20240304_150105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UWQOVyP6ixN9l2FvvQTmZmOaTpY9u2HBVBEDvOiSbtKJjBBDSBnTGQXF46T94t_wbTELUGBJUwxSueSmE53XQw1nRDYztExkufcBb4wXo0pr0_WoE5l7tgITOo13bq3wfjw516cVHNxZr7jBMZ3BJDmlNqr_TUG7lqa97ahP5251Zu82iqmBDgOQpmJw/w240-h181/20240304_150105.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1/2 cup almond meal</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1/4 cup bacon grease (melted butter can also be used)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1/2 cup sourdough starter, freshly fed</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1 tsp sea salt</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1/2 tsp seasoning of choice - Everything Bagel, Italian, garlic etc. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mix all ingredients together until it forms a ball. If the dough is dry, add more bacon grease until you have a workable dough. Cover in a bowl and refrigerate. After at least 30 minutes, place the ball onto a parchment sheet placed on a cookie sheet. Place a parchment paper over the ball. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to the edges of the sheet, until very thin. Slice the dough with a sharp knife into small squares. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bake at 350 for 20 - 25 minutes. Remove from oven, and allow crackers to cool on cookie sheet. Store in an airtight container. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyXsWTx5n0ptTxdb4iOwaXJprXjRFheYo0PwU1qocUF8ySuag12sHPzyNSpmGzS54YogX3hUJu7wWPAOhikF-VbX2mGUDwSRvpdjzqR87-ejGGNovi6FX1VTMzs40uTEnhTV1fUWc1zCPVTHJ2BpqbKUI7nlH6QcruPymKVWker7uu-nV7fhRshSzdAQN/s4000/20240304_145931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyXsWTx5n0ptTxdb4iOwaXJprXjRFheYo0PwU1qocUF8ySuag12sHPzyNSpmGzS54YogX3hUJu7wWPAOhikF-VbX2mGUDwSRvpdjzqR87-ejGGNovi6FX1VTMzs40uTEnhTV1fUWc1zCPVTHJ2BpqbKUI7nlH6QcruPymKVWker7uu-nV7fhRshSzdAQN/w300-h400/20240304_145931.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My favorite way to enjoy these crackers is to mix a pouch of Lemon Pepper tuna (or any tuna you may have, about 6 oz) with 1/4 cup cream cheese spread, 2 Tbsp diced onion, and enjoy with the crackers. <br /></span><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYmmhX3o5RtN1lfO16h8mpIK8ghHQdOE-JaAUGoH-NCbHYepdZV4XtrmPvqAPBetC0UlHSfcMmk9Ix3vloZOD7RpjliGnoQVfYBIMsg4JI4ry2cGWnXAb32g1xVO24dHxCGD_hB45SYySyQzEOdTshiC6GsCNhhBUDMjx6T3TIsFVZIwH3eBy0v2QpJWE/w300-h400/20240304_150131.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A delicious snack :) </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I am of the mindset to use up every bit of everything I can and make it useful. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Isn't it great that from 1 cup of almonds, you can get 5 cups of almond milk and 1 cup of almond meal which can be used in other recipes</span><span style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">‽ </span></b></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">?!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">By the way - I learned something this week! Do you know what an interrobang is? (I used it at the end of the last paragraph) Well, I did not - but it is this little punctuation marker created back in the 1960's indicating a question asked in an exclamatory manner. It looks like this </span><b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">‽ </span></b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">It is basically an exclamation mark and a question mark together. Have you ever used or seen one of these before? I thought it was a fun piece of information to learn :) </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">You can find more information about interrobang here on the Merriam-Webster site :) </span><a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interrobang" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Interrobang</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirMSStnlOJV9XXvyhS5Cjylxpcw6c2O1AgBIPQHrZLfldAx90A6Wif8phJGAxrsy85k1rCTCqZaOzmn4AplsXC4gTRklFn0rqTjNjTqg2BwmuJvrIf6fgxalD0kd1Hp5bgHlvBqsePBF_7Eq5a1tYSe_-aVr1vbrLFo4lM5xpkOm611zIlOlNBaVTbITo/s628/20240304_073056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirMSStnlOJV9XXvyhS5Cjylxpcw6c2O1AgBIPQHrZLfldAx90A6Wif8phJGAxrsy85k1rCTCqZaOzmn4AplsXC4gTRklFn0rqTjNjTqg2BwmuJvrIf6fgxalD0kd1Hp5bgHlvBqsePBF_7Eq5a1tYSe_-aVr1vbrLFo4lM5xpkOm611zIlOlNBaVTbITo/w480-h640/20240304_073056.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I've got seeds started in the greenhouse! I use seedling mats to keep them warm. I have not had to heat my greenhouse this year. If the temps drop down into the teens, I will put out a heat lamp, but the seedlings are fine on the mat with temps into the 20s. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRpPCaFyFVPG-um2pe2pSMkeBZ7MJzbwOtultPZ0ujZlbpyP4tI95FHQdsaWeffEB6MYXA9Vozl5LHNKGgUvBMFExZ44pdVpelvN4GFk4SqWaIpABSZCerk8ySxKtOjyk4Fs_vD33_xHdRKHNsm6WVcjxkXJeVpvm92XA7_F3uUQUeDb3Yr0hyphenhyphen7ls0zjW/s837/20240304_073206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRpPCaFyFVPG-um2pe2pSMkeBZ7MJzbwOtultPZ0ujZlbpyP4tI95FHQdsaWeffEB6MYXA9Vozl5LHNKGgUvBMFExZ44pdVpelvN4GFk4SqWaIpABSZCerk8ySxKtOjyk4Fs_vD33_xHdRKHNsm6WVcjxkXJeVpvm92XA7_F3uUQUeDb3Yr0hyphenhyphen7ls0zjW/w640-h480/20240304_073206.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I don't buy expensive pots to put my seedlings in. I simply use plastic grocery store containers with plastic lids. I make holes in the bottom for drainage and keep the containers covered. This process has worked for me for many years! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxM9gYCfXad6HOQ7-_5ILMbCwjDrKqpcQdEMw3JWaVRUbB_GBOrYh4CP06rG2LUnPgFuNYPu-ApGAnW70AzfWUixTK3v7vcceU51mg4hTPQgZbOJtxDDjhr2viB56UKYs84qaBWV5dAbK7n1t5VbTPRqb73vwnBeMoTOhalnA1_uhAJRuo0VBYA74Q0CY/s628/20240304_073702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxM9gYCfXad6HOQ7-_5ILMbCwjDrKqpcQdEMw3JWaVRUbB_GBOrYh4CP06rG2LUnPgFuNYPu-ApGAnW70AzfWUixTK3v7vcceU51mg4hTPQgZbOJtxDDjhr2viB56UKYs84qaBWV5dAbK7n1t5VbTPRqb73vwnBeMoTOhalnA1_uhAJRuo0VBYA74Q0CY/w480-h640/20240304_073702.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My neighbor's Australian Shepherd puppy, whom I've been "puppy-sitting" is wiggling her way further into my heart! She is just so adorable. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCD_3hOGWxErQonlBUSxc5cWQLr_QquTeNV1xngJHhrVUIJtJumefSumLSJsrL9DJt42YbQF4Z3rWChGJbSWIZ8fUWFO5VAv5-tqRqTl2wfn8Bs70Kc5w1P3H9GiQThsb7st_IbhPIWQg0kupp6nYm57m5ORgYhzKUK9TqyeYLZsm_xFOxMNURatla43L/s770/20240304_083436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="770" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCD_3hOGWxErQonlBUSxc5cWQLr_QquTeNV1xngJHhrVUIJtJumefSumLSJsrL9DJt42YbQF4Z3rWChGJbSWIZ8fUWFO5VAv5-tqRqTl2wfn8Bs70Kc5w1P3H9GiQThsb7st_IbhPIWQg0kupp6nYm57m5ORgYhzKUK9TqyeYLZsm_xFOxMNURatla43L/w640-h522/20240304_083436.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She and Riley enjoy playtime in the garden, a safe place where she can run to her heart's content without too much freedom. In her puppy stage, she has no clue about roads and wild animals, so this is a safe place for her to play unleashed for now - at least while it is still winter! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMj7bWK2edbeeF622bedtgF6I_S-W-MBEOAj3X7MptljZJhM8XBw8efxfAb8yernwmTwAzGnNQoF00hEAD1Vmhy9lDTX5Q2CMaCy923hJhAj_qalCzaqwkzNCrP_AJDnmsjgWBjh03syd0OTvyfCIt9tHtyJDOkx9nCXuoO5p-yGHKliwbW37te7JXH3M/s696/20240304_083906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="696" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMj7bWK2edbeeF622bedtgF6I_S-W-MBEOAj3X7MptljZJhM8XBw8efxfAb8yernwmTwAzGnNQoF00hEAD1Vmhy9lDTX5Q2CMaCy923hJhAj_qalCzaqwkzNCrP_AJDnmsjgWBjh03syd0OTvyfCIt9tHtyJDOkx9nCXuoO5p-yGHKliwbW37te7JXH3M/w640-h578/20240304_083906.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She and Riley are masters at their silly dog games! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhks4oNwxD1T_1-ewVXtMduUhm4YhERzTbTdRpnKkhKUpqNt3NZMnTv-Vfwv7U3ZA_E5MugUnS2DKQNF6ZGVdznE66eNLxuYeWUdAnq-oU9PNFFEP_c1Fvetnkj7_lNkyt2f8WML1daSnuf3QQZtmS4mDN71qB_xBDNtDRzkhf4U-8RfimGwIT8i4B3fQWB/s779/20240304_083909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="779" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhks4oNwxD1T_1-ewVXtMduUhm4YhERzTbTdRpnKkhKUpqNt3NZMnTv-Vfwv7U3ZA_E5MugUnS2DKQNF6ZGVdznE66eNLxuYeWUdAnq-oU9PNFFEP_c1Fvetnkj7_lNkyt2f8WML1daSnuf3QQZtmS4mDN71qB_xBDNtDRzkhf4U-8RfimGwIT8i4B3fQWB/w640-h516/20240304_083909.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Riley is a good "momma" influence to Bejeweled and makes me think... is it time for me to get another puppy? <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWH_7k3-oAN5KsDS1SRU1AByEUUZg4_CT3tluIAgpdAOeNVEufKuTctIzLPDHkIzJ5axnZ0E8VgGClBXliyV_2db5G4jyehYbD3saesJ7Pff7A5YZDj2uOvQIPl3i_L7VdkMIN82V6UBYNvNKus-IOk8jfbvuUZve9LS1gcyYvwDeDJpfwaCo5EsDgp1t/s737/20240304_101851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="737" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWH_7k3-oAN5KsDS1SRU1AByEUUZg4_CT3tluIAgpdAOeNVEufKuTctIzLPDHkIzJ5axnZ0E8VgGClBXliyV_2db5G4jyehYbD3saesJ7Pff7A5YZDj2uOvQIPl3i_L7VdkMIN82V6UBYNvNKus-IOk8jfbvuUZve9LS1gcyYvwDeDJpfwaCo5EsDgp1t/w640-h546/20240304_101851.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">After playing in the garden, she was so exhausted, covered in snowballs, that she just collapsed once we got inside! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qvip91fy9Xttq2Qf_0Qean2uWFXCNTCZtJ6ltPqA2XQK0U5cJlwrOF9dBgMbqC_gUFE3k_Vm8wbtlxfLSHPZr_riF3ml1xVhkdxJ30QhwTimz9gFrFUwi_gUn8uYMV3orsoy5r0WwLMBESf8AJvMNk_0l2vzy04z1yFwmSfi788I3jtqUx-LId92Kl9G/s628/20240304_103652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qvip91fy9Xttq2Qf_0Qean2uWFXCNTCZtJ6ltPqA2XQK0U5cJlwrOF9dBgMbqC_gUFE3k_Vm8wbtlxfLSHPZr_riF3ml1xVhkdxJ30QhwTimz9gFrFUwi_gUn8uYMV3orsoy5r0WwLMBESf8AJvMNk_0l2vzy04z1yFwmSfi788I3jtqUx-LId92Kl9G/w480-h640/20240304_103652.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sound asleep by my chair as I worked on this blog post :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwzD7Iij4HuIo819elaiZkFLFSh4dPf-UW_7v4tdXScTQanI-2iDGzKWozVzWXRThDKbyzV4_j5Tr3wbH_K4SF8umH82Esg2-CxB5FwxUuwtakPK0FK-OoLAZn37V3SJFqi_AyRgOuotD-iMy6aF6Oh1QBriG7AmkOBHSUp3QkQ7pXYbx8BuJFme4EaZ0/s4000/20230228_081212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwzD7Iij4HuIo819elaiZkFLFSh4dPf-UW_7v4tdXScTQanI-2iDGzKWozVzWXRThDKbyzV4_j5Tr3wbH_K4SF8umH82Esg2-CxB5FwxUuwtakPK0FK-OoLAZn37V3SJFqi_AyRgOuotD-iMy6aF6Oh1QBriG7AmkOBHSUp3QkQ7pXYbx8BuJFme4EaZ0/w360-h640/20230228_081212.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">On the 28th of February last year, I took Annie on her last walk. We knew she had been failing, and I had found a back brace for her that enabled her to walk. She was so happy in that snowstorm as we walked. I let her off the leash, and let her explore to her heart's content. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPwbSMacC_UkcY43AOLjvpDSPKdV4rQ44TnQJsF6-soFS0NapCeShT1fKNI9zd9f9Yl48AZ1bFC1xW0QC57-TF712gKlyKsihpae7123taUg4iIreC5lfJyFy-sOxFx060RWxfNQb4iNTDnvmgDCIilwy3acZoZ5K5OynReJbMBeMBFmG4xNgYM2FVAgJ/s3648/PSX_20230222_105750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPwbSMacC_UkcY43AOLjvpDSPKdV4rQ44TnQJsF6-soFS0NapCeShT1fKNI9zd9f9Yl48AZ1bFC1xW0QC57-TF712gKlyKsihpae7123taUg4iIreC5lfJyFy-sOxFx060RWxfNQb4iNTDnvmgDCIilwy3acZoZ5K5OynReJbMBeMBFmG4xNgYM2FVAgJ/w480-h640/PSX_20230222_105750.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Annie never liked the camera, and would never look at the camera. Thankfully I did get this picture of both of us enjoying the snow just days before she passed.<br /> <br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">On March 3, 2023 - a day that hurts to remember still - Annie couldn't walk to the door. I had to carry her to the car. I was home alone, and somehow, I managed it. She was in pain and I was sobbing. At the vet's office, we found she had advanced-stage cancer, and we had to let her go. I called my family on a conference call, and the vet kindly gave us all the time we needed, as each one of my family members told her how much they loved her. Her passing left a gaping hole in our life. She was a dog that understood me, and loved us - we were her world. She and I shared a love of the snow, and walking together - we both would happily walk all day long if we could! We know she lived her best life with us, and though we will always miss her, she was a special one-of-a-kind dog - and we've had a lot of dogs. Her memory will never be forgotten. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This passage of scripture has spoken to my heart this week - I wanted to share it with you: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHX7oAk32T8GBLE8F0Y7Ep_Rl07VfQnGkGAVJPBCO1USfMxgeGXUc5_AsjxAP5SDmp2a9SIGq6U7RN8dAF0h88ZSXo68-M6ReOLInjd1YNULrDV2NyyNmHYi-cDp7IxZ9ThJ-IYrxLsGR7gJjE-7ReC3cJ7ya8yie-dkTe2DZAxeIAMJOjU-i6A6j_OWi/s1920/Colorful%20Watercolor%20Floral%20Linktree%20Background%20(2).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHX7oAk32T8GBLE8F0Y7Ep_Rl07VfQnGkGAVJPBCO1USfMxgeGXUc5_AsjxAP5SDmp2a9SIGq6U7RN8dAF0h88ZSXo68-M6ReOLInjd1YNULrDV2NyyNmHYi-cDp7IxZ9ThJ-IYrxLsGR7gJjE-7ReC3cJ7ya8yie-dkTe2DZAxeIAMJOjU-i6A6j_OWi/w598-h399/Colorful%20Watercolor%20Floral%20Linktree%20Background%20(2).png" width="598" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Verse 5 "Blessed is the man whose strength is in Thee", really ministered to my heart. How I depend on the Lord for His strength - I go from strength to strength, leaning always on Him for all things. <br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I worked on a new video this week - one that you can use as background music for your Easter/Lent/Passover time of remembering the Lord. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">If you watch the video closely, you will see a picture of me enjoying a sunrise on the shores of Prince Edward Island. We visited the Island while in New Brunswick visiting my Gram in October 2022 as she was so ill. It was a special morning, the sunrise was so magnificent as it rose over the Charlottetown, PEI harbor, and the song I chose to pair it with is "It Is Well With My Soul". </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Indeed, that song still ministers greatly to my heart today. Life is full of ups, downs, joys and sorrows, health and sickness, worry and praise. But - through it all, I can still say, It Is Well With My Soul. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="442" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SIQHAUasqPM" width="532" youtube-src-id="SIQHAUasqPM"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">May this video be a blessing to you, and please know that each one of you remains in my prayers - the days we live in are troublesome, and worries are many. Prayer sustains us! We must keep our thoughts on Him while looking at all the beauty He has created in this world for us to enjoy. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">God bless each of you! </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><br /></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-55085387485050660922024-02-27T13:13:00.000-08:002024-02-27T13:13:59.436-08:00Foggy February Mountain Views<div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Here we are in the final days of February! Can you even believe how fast the calendar continues to move along! This has been a very mild winter for us here in North Idaho; many are not complaining. As most of my readers know - I love the snow, and Winter here in North Idaho is "splendiferous" for me. I absolutely love the beauty of the snow, and while I'll admit the cold is not my favorite thing, I do love a frosty day at about 20 degrees with the sun brightly shining. When the glitter and diamonds in the snow are shimmering - life is just glorious! We sadly haven't had many of those days this year. But - we have had some beautiful scenes that the snow and fog have created. Below is one of my favorites. The mountains are misty, shrouded in secrecy while the pine trees stand majestically. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96g8NYAnUPf9GEXErWBObcQlYR_dO7WYNEA__R03KGkyhqlrn0g6TZoUE7bqPFDSRXR40I3ppSQ9fT0LK5TeXDmUNK9SQE2yfzV_srYtk10fLbOgVQaPw2piBlDcNMF_ktJwqZKVMsiE8-WsLaQCggmdjGWcQYDFc85eS2N2kCNvwSeQoVI0nsnV4Wpka/s837/20240213_081144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96g8NYAnUPf9GEXErWBObcQlYR_dO7WYNEA__R03KGkyhqlrn0g6TZoUE7bqPFDSRXR40I3ppSQ9fT0LK5TeXDmUNK9SQE2yfzV_srYtk10fLbOgVQaPw2piBlDcNMF_ktJwqZKVMsiE8-WsLaQCggmdjGWcQYDFc85eS2N2kCNvwSeQoVI0nsnV4Wpka/w640-h480/20240213_081144.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRhYVnSNSWorTx5QNtAHtOBDMIiroUjeBWXCvHMetFZjTj9HouLQ4ai6ooKQU6qeh6OS0xA5JNJhgXjPAOGC9GBbTL8x7Ed0IKq8_2woKfyQ2S6op97OHFgQGnUyOLgRUA8CGVUD0e0lZ0dO_458f4XvxKSFkNW1__tNOQLqZW0ETcu0gj5Y4z3pO17TZ/s837/20240226_065649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRhYVnSNSWorTx5QNtAHtOBDMIiroUjeBWXCvHMetFZjTj9HouLQ4ai6ooKQU6qeh6OS0xA5JNJhgXjPAOGC9GBbTL8x7Ed0IKq8_2woKfyQ2S6op97OHFgQGnUyOLgRUA8CGVUD0e0lZ0dO_458f4XvxKSFkNW1__tNOQLqZW0ETcu0gj5Y4z3pO17TZ/w640-h480/20240226_065649.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I captured this shot of the moon while walking this week, <br />early in the morning, just as the sun was coming up. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACuRFn6Tbp2FJ2GhPSi4zMJruNsblVgwbf1jUapcc30i4lL97Tx3Gn5KRLHY17k1iKvup2OfshF5nFk62pnLECVeOV8p7108I29CqZFH8-VeDzEYciRUSr6MRMIuN_EANvLSb21jaIR4z7cFAdaO7XNkqbODKakwROxJewjC-mOmG4vxMEksxqqRZZGS4/s837/20240226_065653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACuRFn6Tbp2FJ2GhPSi4zMJruNsblVgwbf1jUapcc30i4lL97Tx3Gn5KRLHY17k1iKvup2OfshF5nFk62pnLECVeOV8p7108I29CqZFH8-VeDzEYciRUSr6MRMIuN_EANvLSb21jaIR4z7cFAdaO7XNkqbODKakwROxJewjC-mOmG4vxMEksxqqRZZGS4/w640-h480/20240226_065653.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It was a frosty morning, with no snow on the ground,<br />but isn't the moon just beautiful in the western sky! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-G4s-5GTfA-wokKY7I0X3WY03xReMvwjHrdxELcpKO89r_T7coLeqPkq59wBoG0wRyvYw-FGkJadNsVZSafkxdQbtgytJS52J5a851VLKBOV407Jd30zVR55MGWUtGw_EB3GXEch7IKGDHpUbwT-MAigAEV2jL9dj6or2NBeMPI_IGspIDw53HCEbha3U/s837/20240226_065801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-G4s-5GTfA-wokKY7I0X3WY03xReMvwjHrdxELcpKO89r_T7coLeqPkq59wBoG0wRyvYw-FGkJadNsVZSafkxdQbtgytJS52J5a851VLKBOV407Jd30zVR55MGWUtGw_EB3GXEch7IKGDHpUbwT-MAigAEV2jL9dj6or2NBeMPI_IGspIDw53HCEbha3U/w640-h480/20240226_065801.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A closer view of February's Moon, also known as the Snow Moon or Hunger Moon. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fzUIJHknPCZQrTC6MiW8e5i-gK-9-chyphenhyphenuDRQS_yJYtkUDcYp5DNlvZkhGy9LQJUa8V5btnCZmwYDwToVaw42t4dD2SU_OeqpOhRN4Fi6PW0Zvc51HwTvOt0sy-iZfhv1kXkVmEEW1bkvtv2Q7dd2kEUiU8zFqbZZjtY5v9xzpRQ2Mz3cvzPI1OT54tXX/s1081/20240226_070240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1081" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fzUIJHknPCZQrTC6MiW8e5i-gK-9-chyphenhyphenuDRQS_yJYtkUDcYp5DNlvZkhGy9LQJUa8V5btnCZmwYDwToVaw42t4dD2SU_OeqpOhRN4Fi6PW0Zvc51HwTvOt0sy-iZfhv1kXkVmEEW1bkvtv2Q7dd2kEUiU8zFqbZZjtY5v9xzpRQ2Mz3cvzPI1OT54tXX/w640-h372/20240226_070240.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The clouds always add drama to the skies, and I never tire of <br />seeing the unique formations of the clouds in our skies. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1zflrp3qwCKTayRe_QqaiWnQKX4xm-0ATBNIHwrN01tr2L7Q7aKNrApPfbDS6B5HfY2TY-2ZQOGijL1QVpxxGauYpRMF1cJyCTGZU5skkwfpzoYIL4-8E1xrcAt83fhJUFkMDPRB2ihybjBL-QsVVeLUO8nvp3UdMXN5fzoIVDA4JaUQ3z3LOf-U5y2S/s867/20240226_085638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="867" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1zflrp3qwCKTayRe_QqaiWnQKX4xm-0ATBNIHwrN01tr2L7Q7aKNrApPfbDS6B5HfY2TY-2ZQOGijL1QVpxxGauYpRMF1cJyCTGZU5skkwfpzoYIL4-8E1xrcAt83fhJUFkMDPRB2ihybjBL-QsVVeLUO8nvp3UdMXN5fzoIVDA4JaUQ3z3LOf-U5y2S/w640-h464/20240226_085638.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Can you count how many Stellar Blue Jays are in this photo? If you see 7 of them, you are correct! They are regular visitors to my bird feeders, and are so entertaining to watch! They have a very distinctive cry, and let me know when the feeders are empty (which means when they've emptied the feeders!!) <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxLX7AiRToZ8_7gzQXuHTnrCcYev6Z6V9ykflMEusNvtOrGDabvs72fEt_5YrRyxkoMHutqvD774Ann6ulippoB1ydvy5MewYUjpcGhgQf2x4ytVr4cOH8dGbzjZYoLP51Zbulli2b-oDY5UJPIcY_3j7Kbu5oGofSWLrYvX2I-RGL8s_DJN1M6-N3PGO/s837/20240226_071936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxLX7AiRToZ8_7gzQXuHTnrCcYev6Z6V9ykflMEusNvtOrGDabvs72fEt_5YrRyxkoMHutqvD774Ann6ulippoB1ydvy5MewYUjpcGhgQf2x4ytVr4cOH8dGbzjZYoLP51Zbulli2b-oDY5UJPIcY_3j7Kbu5oGofSWLrYvX2I-RGL8s_DJN1M6-N3PGO/w640-h480/20240226_071936.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Riley and I continue to enjoy our morning walks, now with no snow on the road - <br />so unusual for February, but we are enjoying it. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5dChXaFH9Qa4OPP0aEVrD_Ej14K9ZLKK1vssQZrBYCsaFFAuvrx1ouDms-P3diMnfCEoh3RO0TCFHNEn2Rlx3EceMrCpcKsxlez7LkR2rrMxK6AMBwPdztkvrkL-8QEqRx-ol0TYuXRQxPQahfr4BNSA1sgtd8Z-I9SFv5_PsWFzf_eD3BiYOXfP1t3k/s705/20240226_081200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="705" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5dChXaFH9Qa4OPP0aEVrD_Ej14K9ZLKK1vssQZrBYCsaFFAuvrx1ouDms-P3diMnfCEoh3RO0TCFHNEn2Rlx3EceMrCpcKsxlez7LkR2rrMxK6AMBwPdztkvrkL-8QEqRx-ol0TYuXRQxPQahfr4BNSA1sgtd8Z-I9SFv5_PsWFzf_eD3BiYOXfP1t3k/w400-h356/20240226_081200.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">You may remember from my last post that I have been "puppy-sitting" my neighbor's new Aussie puppy while she works. Miss Bejeweled is so precious! I found a treat that she really enjoys as a teething puppy - chewing on ice! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I captured her puppy antics on video, and shared it on YouTube,</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> just a short 60-second video, but </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I think it will make you smile! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pFc7G81ckYQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="pFc7G81ckYQ"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I wanted to share this inspirational poem found again in the beautiful Christian poetry book I picked up at the thrift store a couple of weeks ago. This little poem sums up my heart today - Thy Way - Not Mine. May I always walk in humbleness listening to the Lord in all I do, and let His will be the path I take, not my own. I've learned His ways are always best! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Thy Way, Not Mine</span></b></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Thy way, not mine, O Lord,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">However dark it be!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Lead me by thine own hand</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Choose out the path for me. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Smooth let it be or rough,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It will be still the best;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Winding or straight, it leads</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right onward to thy rest. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I dare not choose my lot;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I would not, if I might,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Choose thou for me, My God;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So shall I walk aright. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The kingdom that I seek</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Is thine, so let the way</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That leads to it be thine;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Else I must surely stray.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Take thou my cup and it</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">With joy or sorrow fill,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">As best to thee may seem;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Choose thou my good and ill;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Choose thou for me my friends,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My sickness or my health;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Choose thou my cares for me,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My poverty or wealth. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Not mine, not mine the choice,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In things great or small;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Be thou my guide, my strength</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My wisdom and my all! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Horatius Bonar 1808-1889</span></i></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Isaiah 55:6-13</span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">call ye upon him
while he is near:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Let the wicked forsake his way, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and the unrighteous man his
thoughts: </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and let him return unto the LORD, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and he will have mercy upon him; </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For my thoughts are not your thoughts, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For as the heavens are higher than the earth, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">so
are my ways higher than your ways, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and my thoughts than your thoughts. </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>For as the rain cometh down, </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>and the snow
from heaven, </i><i>and returneth not thither, </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>but watereth the earth, and maketh it
bring forth and bud, </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the
eater: </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>it shall not
return unto me void, but it shall accomplish </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>that which I please, and it shall
prosper </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>in the thing whereto I sent it.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>into singing, and all
the trees of the field shall clap their hands.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i> Instead of the thorn
shall come up the fir tree, </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle
tree:</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>and it shall be to the LORD for a name, </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>for an everlasting sign that shall
not be cut off. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Isaiah 55:6-13</span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3w7gWUAVFBNbaYZ-TfmYL5NyHeAfxnD0dHnFrcdOGjbMZ1SW1AqI7of_yr45cm6302h_YAMZSb4zL4P6synVcjotZeryQP-3b_knzrRlR_q22Bo0kz_nR2iw67hr8K5Ln9HCl5hsFCWbQXRfUgYO3rbLiuCxOueUKfX5Uw7M3D9qvvNXYYSXkwWgOh2wm/s837/20240213_081146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3w7gWUAVFBNbaYZ-TfmYL5NyHeAfxnD0dHnFrcdOGjbMZ1SW1AqI7of_yr45cm6302h_YAMZSb4zL4P6synVcjotZeryQP-3b_knzrRlR_q22Bo0kz_nR2iw67hr8K5Ln9HCl5hsFCWbQXRfUgYO3rbLiuCxOueUKfX5Uw7M3D9qvvNXYYSXkwWgOh2wm/w640-h480/20240213_081146.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This passage sums it all up well - God's ways are not our ways - but in the end, when His will is accomplished there will be joy, singing, and peace. That gives me hope! Today I may just see clouds over the mountains, with low-hanging fog and nothing seems clear. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">But tomorrow - tomorrow's hope is that sunshine will return, and those same mountains will sparkle and shine with the light of the sun upon them. That is our hope! </span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="405" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_GONt_NlQao" width="487" youtube-src-id="_GONt_NlQao"></iframe></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Here is another music video that I created this week, again it is perfect for background worship/prayer/devotional time music. It is instrumental, and there are some beautiful hymns that I love in this selection. I think your heart will be encouraged by the views of the beautiful mountains - today they may be shrouded in fog and snow, but summer will soon come, and we will see them clearly once again. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Many blessings to each of you my dear readers, and I thank you so much for your faithful visits! </span></div><div><br /></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-82066928257355044032024-02-12T13:18:00.000-08:002024-02-12T13:18:39.787-08:00Blue Skies and Melting Snow! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It's been a very unusual winter here! In January we had frigid temperatures, some of the coldest we've ever seen. Then an incredible 60+ degree warm up within a day or so, with extreme melting of all the snow we've accumulated. We are now comfortably into February, and the days are staying warm, and the snow continues to melt. We've even seen a few blue skies! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmA0lAL68rMJWfnfOaZxEFC0mSX1A7JGh3mzn_0Q-94XFfzQwLPwdoBj93JIIfBHjJ3NII7Z2NC8pykvEIfKuhAjjmgl1hy2ok2QrOdAQL0X_XktLNuiu-DgdfOvPK9qmjkwlevAMnwYKvsOl9SN3tMacf5YW4DP1RNKLzJ2Bz5HR5s4e4sCiA_1c1-lO/s837/20240131_081241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmA0lAL68rMJWfnfOaZxEFC0mSX1A7JGh3mzn_0Q-94XFfzQwLPwdoBj93JIIfBHjJ3NII7Z2NC8pykvEIfKuhAjjmgl1hy2ok2QrOdAQL0X_XktLNuiu-DgdfOvPK9qmjkwlevAMnwYKvsOl9SN3tMacf5YW4DP1RNKLzJ2Bz5HR5s4e4sCiA_1c1-lO/w640-h480/20240131_081241.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mostly in the mornings when I walk, the skies are gray and overcast, and sometimes later in the day the sun will break through and we will see the skies for a short time before dusk. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyevhCA20DFgdagEfydTCi789_SnhzlFbOaDHlDRqfZOK82nh8NoOB-xyh6mX8JkLl6ubLp13Nj-Z9FNlZtF60NWNvMi4EwvNZaDtMM9Acv__qHEswQev2q_yug_n4AgSaTGwsaNXnS4R1x1JZ4TGjKePfE7OpBgxc_qxVYagv8GUBx7SZW7YBWXymRde/s837/20240131_082500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyevhCA20DFgdagEfydTCi789_SnhzlFbOaDHlDRqfZOK82nh8NoOB-xyh6mX8JkLl6ubLp13Nj-Z9FNlZtF60NWNvMi4EwvNZaDtMM9Acv__qHEswQev2q_yug_n4AgSaTGwsaNXnS4R1x1JZ4TGjKePfE7OpBgxc_qxVYagv8GUBx7SZW7YBWXymRde/w640-h480/20240131_082500.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">But mostly - for the last several weeks, we've had a lot of snow fog, where the air is dense and thick with fog, and you can't see much at all. The days when we can see the sky, are welcome, indeed! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br />This is my newest video - I created it to be a lovely background music to enjoy while working on other things. It is a 1-hour long instrumental video with beautiful piano music by a local man in our community. It is easy to listen to, with familiar hymns and songs that are played beautifully. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a_Cbb4L-Rdk" width="320" youtube-src-id="a_Cbb4L-Rdk"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3sFSRXPvx2fgAINiEY2SFCSzCxpVjGzK0TN4o_tnxAD9fczilp-rnCD08zqlMttsvmQqBnmvjH9bjG0l1LX47oo6zziorRljiUOAHWZ9vmNVjjDP1zz5lToTsqOktXoQ4v7h04I1kEtRRV1f5w44bcJxSuohvWkyErtCcs_EPrxTycOm0LbgY8yyHTnP/s837/20240205_132320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3sFSRXPvx2fgAINiEY2SFCSzCxpVjGzK0TN4o_tnxAD9fczilp-rnCD08zqlMttsvmQqBnmvjH9bjG0l1LX47oo6zziorRljiUOAHWZ9vmNVjjDP1zz5lToTsqOktXoQ4v7h04I1kEtRRV1f5w44bcJxSuohvWkyErtCcs_EPrxTycOm0LbgY8yyHTnP/w640-h480/20240205_132320.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I got together with my "stamping ladies" and we made these cards. I made the one on the right.... it is always a blessing to gather with other ladies and create together :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> <br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKdJL5prbqTH2J39Cr8Immy16RDQeCIIFjLgiQBNysXKO30jnOkjbkaP8w1IW4QSgE_WPg4PSIB4nyK0-TtpOzthBjFm_GGFnzeukS-WU8Twa2HLsf4cspFWsrcEue3ITjRNhvY2BFuwxWgfBjRjP58VEmljDsduBbM0fhv9Q6IVmwrAwfwVXZMASIs2q/s628/20240210_083029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKdJL5prbqTH2J39Cr8Immy16RDQeCIIFjLgiQBNysXKO30jnOkjbkaP8w1IW4QSgE_WPg4PSIB4nyK0-TtpOzthBjFm_GGFnzeukS-WU8Twa2HLsf4cspFWsrcEue3ITjRNhvY2BFuwxWgfBjRjP58VEmljDsduBbM0fhv9Q6IVmwrAwfwVXZMASIs2q/w480-h640/20240210_083029.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My neighbor's new puppy - her name is Bejeweled! I will be helping care for her when my neighbor has to work until she gets a little older. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqsWvNFYzPWQ3Z_biOmS1uOCZQhiS2ltipI1SQlia6COb-LKaeCAiQr5EkuejZIGuH7EbP6Kgg_TrS9B5_-V2IaD_DnniEfRAqSLkgWTOM3BJXaVWafx5RNDlVVEG6a8GKj8gTVf6ALLMrZe-2pCzYnSet-pr47fU2A5XJC7e6KRX4HwmriXkhssVs01Q/s628/20240210_083015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqsWvNFYzPWQ3Z_biOmS1uOCZQhiS2ltipI1SQlia6COb-LKaeCAiQr5EkuejZIGuH7EbP6Kgg_TrS9B5_-V2IaD_DnniEfRAqSLkgWTOM3BJXaVWafx5RNDlVVEG6a8GKj8gTVf6ALLMrZe-2pCzYnSet-pr47fU2A5XJC7e6KRX4HwmriXkhssVs01Q/w480-h640/20240210_083015.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She and Riley became friends instantly! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzh4dL6qudtlq41T0TFn8bcYKnFOhU92JRxHOaRxzUjfms44ocHuRKCFP-GTwNVSwOqXrJX-4NKtXev5J1TTh4kAQlPLe4vbgXBFNN5XVTOalp0sDwwJaT0QaBH56eNQ8yjDI1m1H5nQdR41z_TGsWBrlPR4UIGfcVa6pUg7xvEvVN_k9yNRBYAPAS4kU/s628/20240210_082952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzh4dL6qudtlq41T0TFn8bcYKnFOhU92JRxHOaRxzUjfms44ocHuRKCFP-GTwNVSwOqXrJX-4NKtXev5J1TTh4kAQlPLe4vbgXBFNN5XVTOalp0sDwwJaT0QaBH56eNQ8yjDI1m1H5nQdR41z_TGsWBrlPR4UIGfcVa6pUg7xvEvVN_k9yNRBYAPAS4kU/w480-h640/20240210_082952.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My heart is smitten! <br />Those eyes! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinuXpMPZMJlS4jcHs3MU0pPPA2-QrGHsse1H3luQoKaBLhjxP1j5RJqi7kGGQ5wNwzE0zq6bv9yZSUeMsW54dNi1vrwoc7JmiCr3qJvREetgsIjhZigFKnLgtYuWfbjITSRVYZs-WDteqh7In_LZaBqrixk16kvfTZnHy51lGDf-nWAVDzUnZIvCkTh3-/s628/20240209_164212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinuXpMPZMJlS4jcHs3MU0pPPA2-QrGHsse1H3luQoKaBLhjxP1j5RJqi7kGGQ5wNwzE0zq6bv9yZSUeMsW54dNi1vrwoc7JmiCr3qJvREetgsIjhZigFKnLgtYuWfbjITSRVYZs-WDteqh7In_LZaBqrixk16kvfTZnHy51lGDf-nWAVDzUnZIvCkTh3-/w480-h640/20240209_164212.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Remember all the wood chips I had given to me last week? I've been giving them to the chickens to scratch and enjoy. Makes them happy!<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSRTpWZg_cCoFXxJbmxkIrfL_5pprk6Dw7tyC5KUQWQgwZEw-QbuRolytBinQbJO7UGi8E1QoGNhta2NaYRyZX42sCfzc8Ld2tm5K3nPdtLs0vx499xJZ2TGJHBtETs0UKEdnEIOBvB6cBIgiWf7ZWMfQcOANIBEITS96-aSodqQE6k_ZaORBUqJ3VUug/s837/20240209_164111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSRTpWZg_cCoFXxJbmxkIrfL_5pprk6Dw7tyC5KUQWQgwZEw-QbuRolytBinQbJO7UGi8E1QoGNhta2NaYRyZX42sCfzc8Ld2tm5K3nPdtLs0vx499xJZ2TGJHBtETs0UKEdnEIOBvB6cBIgiWf7ZWMfQcOANIBEITS96-aSodqQE6k_ZaORBUqJ3VUug/w640-h480/20240209_164111.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My garden! I employed a high schooler to help me wheelbarrow 50+ loads of wood chips over to my garden walkways. We laid the chips down about 2 feet deep. Hopefully, this will curb any weeds that have already started to grow! This was a big endeavor, and I'm so glad to have it done! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfj3hbtoO1VlEipoP-wr2gjsZKO7kI0-CFSSuaUDdH6xc5vnupI-N9K2SzscbmqjE6YXjyjnF_ZzoQcfpiioS9OkvOmKbgR1-ys8beNpzbhAjlil80SOrZ9o-6kMgNmGu7j0464-U5w7vb-hKVKQ-7wZVv8NWOcH43O5dy7dVaslo-rVwh8d7zLhztOCv/s888/20240209_164056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="888" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfj3hbtoO1VlEipoP-wr2gjsZKO7kI0-CFSSuaUDdH6xc5vnupI-N9K2SzscbmqjE6YXjyjnF_ZzoQcfpiioS9OkvOmKbgR1-ys8beNpzbhAjlil80SOrZ9o-6kMgNmGu7j0464-U5w7vb-hKVKQ-7wZVv8NWOcH43O5dy7dVaslo-rVwh8d7zLhztOCv/w640-h452/20240209_164056.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I love the afternoon shadows brightening the garden - bringing my heart much-needed anticipation for the spring days ahead. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nnwgn2D4GZHFpV0v8ZzOUXKzAHzlBIMcMt2WflYrPVMfQnJ1o0oKOyE71xdH306rQc0SOhgRar9TmeUQC8DqJCkG-g2WlamzQ7NozSn8kUvjwMvp2JTi-PNSfReqQe94w7mF64Iaz214VB6JAxvIHQogcDW_T1YsHzIapeYDK7YUAB9cLIijOH9nDZUI/s837/20240209_130538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nnwgn2D4GZHFpV0v8ZzOUXKzAHzlBIMcMt2WflYrPVMfQnJ1o0oKOyE71xdH306rQc0SOhgRar9TmeUQC8DqJCkG-g2WlamzQ7NozSn8kUvjwMvp2JTi-PNSfReqQe94w7mF64Iaz214VB6JAxvIHQogcDW_T1YsHzIapeYDK7YUAB9cLIijOH9nDZUI/w640-h480/20240209_130538.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Enjoyed a Girl's Day out with my daughters - precious to me! We enjoyed coffee and lunch together, and some shopping at local thrift stores. We are all thrifty shoppers :) I'll show you one of my purchases a little later in this post... <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF9E6sEKckZ25G5dG6PKlS7BNgHPoojadBIS6hyphenhyphenaIJzyl-LdMnKYYYceRwGbaNWJO91gwGlk5qEicwL-5FSrUHsmPTMxxTyDKJpZFXCY1xElSAXZOO3WnHDkq-gTLxb__yFJ07E68gr53hegYic2luYp1TXB8BSRXCALZTxuK6VUBqSwnGaXyt4lnHfkc/s837/20240208_165550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF9E6sEKckZ25G5dG6PKlS7BNgHPoojadBIS6hyphenhyphenaIJzyl-LdMnKYYYceRwGbaNWJO91gwGlk5qEicwL-5FSrUHsmPTMxxTyDKJpZFXCY1xElSAXZOO3WnHDkq-gTLxb__yFJ07E68gr53hegYic2luYp1TXB8BSRXCALZTxuK6VUBqSwnGaXyt4lnHfkc/w640-h480/20240208_165550.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I made Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas - a keto meal, so good! <br /><br />I rubbed the chicken breasts with Fajita seasoning mixed with olive oil, then sliced 2 sweet bell peppers, one jalapeno, and sprinkled them over the chicken. Baked at 400 for 30 minutes. Sliced up the chicken and served over a bed of greens for a wonderful chicken fajita salad (Or in a tortilla with cheese, salsa and sour cream)! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMqOQ_bnO4IsMXaldjxnPu0u5UOxdaLZ4ijOTGK01N9sk737dLz_a9L5Wkhwox8Kaq2GYEsPHKMna2tn6lwPV_VqvH7fuvQKKUWeFTzveT7mEZ-Pltu1R33Xg_Czr7KPwp50aAjQn8teXpZOSE5nOS_kdZYqsRFFGwgKv5_lvOOB5Odk964G0vCpyAHrH/s628/20240207_082420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMqOQ_bnO4IsMXaldjxnPu0u5UOxdaLZ4ijOTGK01N9sk737dLz_a9L5Wkhwox8Kaq2GYEsPHKMna2tn6lwPV_VqvH7fuvQKKUWeFTzveT7mEZ-Pltu1R33Xg_Czr7KPwp50aAjQn8teXpZOSE5nOS_kdZYqsRFFGwgKv5_lvOOB5Odk964G0vCpyAHrH/s320/20240207_082420.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A drink I am enjoying daily. It's so simple, and a wonderful way to detox your body. I cut up about a nickel-sized piece of ginger, peel it, and mince it into my mug. Half a lemon juice squeezed into my mug. Add a couple of drops of stevia sweetener and fill the mug with hot water - drink to your health! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQVkHy-X6PnoFeeUHEw8H_vgWcEamaXsT6sJiOIWr36jOmPRsBfLnw8cmmJpymwgWutiYnAdYhhp2X33k1R06uy9RXRr_D1k6BLAOK9BZVdJUbVSmdD0_XPca5EjJqf2tMEwZ108n1dv3bMim5f_JlaIeAI-V4g2jDPgGonouX1nsz32wT7OLjidnm1hh/s628/20240211_140123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQVkHy-X6PnoFeeUHEw8H_vgWcEamaXsT6sJiOIWr36jOmPRsBfLnw8cmmJpymwgWutiYnAdYhhp2X33k1R06uy9RXRr_D1k6BLAOK9BZVdJUbVSmdD0_XPca5EjJqf2tMEwZ108n1dv3bMim5f_JlaIeAI-V4g2jDPgGonouX1nsz32wT7OLjidnm1hh/w480-h640/20240211_140123.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">I found this book at the thrift store on our "Girl's Day Out". It is a collection of Christian poems, and oh my, some of the most beautiful poetry pieces from hundreds of years ago are found in this volume. It will be a treasured book in my library. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"> "</span><i style="font-size: x-large;">A Treasury of Christian Poetry</i><span style="font-size: large;">" compiled by Mary Batchelor 1995</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Here are a couple of pieces that I've read - and reread </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">I think you'll enjoy them :) </span><br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">A Psalm for Sunday Night</span></b><br /><span style="font-size: large;">O sing the glories of our Lord</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">His grace and truth resound</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">And his stupendous acts record</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Whose mercies have no bound!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">He made the all-informing light</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">And hosts of angels fair;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">'Tis he with shadows clothes the night</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">He clouds or clears the air. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Those restless skies with stars enchased</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">He on firm hinges set;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">The wave-embraced earth he placed</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">His hanging cabinet.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">We in his summer-sunshine stand,</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">And in his favour grow;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">We gather what his bounteous hand</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Is pleased to bestow. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">When he contracts his brow, we mourn,</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">And all our strength is vain;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">To former dust in death we turn,</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Till he inspire again. </span><br /><i style="font-size: x-large;">Thomas Pestel 1584 - 1659<br /></i><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I loved this next poem as well.... such beautiful flowery elegant words describing the Lord's beautiful earth around us! </span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><div><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Praise</span></b></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The glorious armies of the sky<br />To thee, Almighty King,<br />Triumphant anthems consecrate,<br />And hallelujahs sing. <br /><br />But still their most exalted flights<br />Fall vastly short of thee:<br />How distant then must human praise<br />From thy perfections be!<br /><br />Yet how, my God, shall I refrain<br />When to my ravished sense<br />Each creature everywhere around<br />Displays the excellence!<br /><br />The active lights that shine above,<br />In their eternal dance,<br />Reveal their skilful Maker's praise<br />With silent elegance. <br /><br />The blushes of the morn confess<br />That thou are still more fair,<br />When in the east its beams revive,<br />To gild the fields of air.<br /><br />The fragrant, the refreshing breeze<br />Of ev'ry flowery bloom<br />In balmy whispers own, from thee<br />Their pleasing odors come.<br /><br />The singing birds, the warbling winds,<br />And waters murmuring fall<br />To praise the first Almighty Cause<br />With different voices call. <br /><br />Thy numerous works exalt thee thus,<br />And shall I silent be?<br />No rather let me cease to breathe,<br />Than cease from praising thee!<br /><i>Elizabeth Rowe 1674-1737 </i><br /><br /></span><div style="font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My heart echos the praise being spoken of in these poems I shared with you. We can choose to focus on the things around us that oppress and depress us - but I choose to think upon the Lord, and the good things that He has provided for us! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">whatsoever things are honest, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">whatsoever things are just, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">whatsoever things are pure, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">whatsoever things are lovely, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">whatsoever things are of good report; </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">if there be any virtue, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">and if there be any praise, </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">think on these things.</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Philippians 4:8</span></i></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-53226022800630322222024-01-28T16:06:00.000-08:002024-01-29T07:19:23.961-08:00Seed Planning, Laundry and Kitty Snuggles! <p><span style="font-size: large;">Today's post is a bit of this, and a bit of that! Our temperatures have been a lot warmer this week, in fact - (insert a sad face here) - our snow is melting! Now you know how much I love to ski - and all these warm temperatures have caused the snow to make "snow fog" so the view outside our window is perpetually gray and foggy. But that's okay, I have the perfect solution for that! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xbdcIM8bXxQTGWBhrr5NbkVVlvM-rsZB2iPHFUOm90HMZgp5IlQlceZGJtZbena8TGELsPCpM8LCL9zkC6f79Kp944nsypn13VzZj9GOa8hzKhAg9NOLrqqs6fimT9fi16VRZR93GDMSKZokBMbshGpOR0c5XvuPYM7jzhookr4OlXNkGHnm80BKfWS3/s837/20240124_090954.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xbdcIM8bXxQTGWBhrr5NbkVVlvM-rsZB2iPHFUOm90HMZgp5IlQlceZGJtZbena8TGELsPCpM8LCL9zkC6f79Kp944nsypn13VzZj9GOa8hzKhAg9NOLrqqs6fimT9fi16VRZR93GDMSKZokBMbshGpOR0c5XvuPYM7jzhookr4OlXNkGHnm80BKfWS3/w400-h300/20240124_090954.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tulips make everything better - even the loss of the snow that I love so much, and the endurance of many gray days with snow fog!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FqEXeGdqm9jqmEPaSzKOZ6oRmVDSxzNrgpYHrzlbBTspmoFM7QLG96O2dkRTzWcFHZKukmFU0aB_X7QSrnX6VueQQaLCHdkJfAY9GCrIpzb5TntwKJipT0Z3y0442vzpEGDMhHK_6Jahr_47SFYQ2ewtLGrckBSWcMCq743LtCYeF76Y6MwuRLq4zKDK/s628/20240124_090937.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FqEXeGdqm9jqmEPaSzKOZ6oRmVDSxzNrgpYHrzlbBTspmoFM7QLG96O2dkRTzWcFHZKukmFU0aB_X7QSrnX6VueQQaLCHdkJfAY9GCrIpzb5TntwKJipT0Z3y0442vzpEGDMhHK_6Jahr_47SFYQ2ewtLGrckBSWcMCq743LtCYeF76Y6MwuRLq4zKDK/w480-h640/20240124_090937.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">A little closer view of the tulip! Isn't she lovely!<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqY8oT_evYxJk7ur1slu3d25I-m8pqXoiDwR1FvMFMv4Qbw7nGLeLq9FTZUMlxCdwtxUAIhMkY25P_QtE1LZMvM5K1964Xla8j-mw4WsB31s2mTyxTcGg7FHI9OBPm_DzKx8QU9JUrVAUF5u096pkrOoJbVbCb3xpe6GDE87j0xRGOqlXDzbgjm4FdDQ40/s837/20240122_190718.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqY8oT_evYxJk7ur1slu3d25I-m8pqXoiDwR1FvMFMv4Qbw7nGLeLq9FTZUMlxCdwtxUAIhMkY25P_QtE1LZMvM5K1964Xla8j-mw4WsB31s2mTyxTcGg7FHI9OBPm_DzKx8QU9JUrVAUF5u096pkrOoJbVbCb3xpe6GDE87j0xRGOqlXDzbgjm4FdDQ40/w640-h480/20240122_190718.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another delicious meat and vegetable meal. I roast a medley of vegetables in the oven at 400. Sometimes I add a little sausage for flavor, many of the veggies are from my garden. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlY3xDATkHiT8QW1IJaY9qL-fKquJmdbBO7IyYAHmNTTqrxjMn_dZId9MTAFFWB8XzeW5LMB6dHnYak6E82LaCA3XV_nUSGDHQ5HwQsT-v4b7vwj1rf4AhMxDk1y6uh4qp5IpD8zxTIL_6h9iD_N1rop5c8oPqy3txXU1CiDE1sP38QMSjvRu-v-ZIhf5a/s628/20240123_123254.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlY3xDATkHiT8QW1IJaY9qL-fKquJmdbBO7IyYAHmNTTqrxjMn_dZId9MTAFFWB8XzeW5LMB6dHnYak6E82LaCA3XV_nUSGDHQ5HwQsT-v4b7vwj1rf4AhMxDk1y6uh4qp5IpD8zxTIL_6h9iD_N1rop5c8oPqy3txXU1CiDE1sP38QMSjvRu-v-ZIhf5a/w300-h400/20240123_123254.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">Our hens really like the warmer weather! I was getting just a few eggs a day (even with </span><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">extra light provided), but now with the warmer weather, they are producing almost a dozen a day!</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqY4t3S7xaNXv15stpMRbG4OXvdJfCpZglSLB74f5oONlD3vdRIsphT8i0xC5-qsnAM_kW9UKImZ6CSI6aZfcM1NCRkFknbpH6noMoFy9avKOJjVRNSzel6cbAxDcAtONg4ipR9zfakFemuSscyNXfqRrBsqMzWcahuqLvZMoDdjPJOOeSmLA8GRoTqwQU/s628/20240125_062510.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqY4t3S7xaNXv15stpMRbG4OXvdJfCpZglSLB74f5oONlD3vdRIsphT8i0xC5-qsnAM_kW9UKImZ6CSI6aZfcM1NCRkFknbpH6noMoFy9avKOJjVRNSzel6cbAxDcAtONg4ipR9zfakFemuSscyNXfqRrBsqMzWcahuqLvZMoDdjPJOOeSmLA8GRoTqwQU/w480-h640/20240125_062510.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes - it's hard to get moving in the morning to feed the chickens, and go for our morning walk - especially when I have this Little Girl all cozy in my lap! <br /><br /></span><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h-QUPxpG7bc" width="320" youtube-src-id="h-QUPxpG7bc"></iframe><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">I think you'll enjoy this short 60-second </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">video of our kitty snuggles!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaCnXqNcQ5KpW4x5C_7p1RVDC0fFuSqbsVfpKm9bmMOSzYDFTjVFUdmnb3xhTcLIAKL9WJPQJoBWnKy_8BNEUamm1jD_UsYXd-d3mviBaUHCYNvNmEQ1XPMxnc6ud6SXOYRNVJktGqxKpFoa5fPocucUocx-xmtGQJVSm_22YF_ecZYT_iZYO43LGowC7/s628/20240125_150931.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaCnXqNcQ5KpW4x5C_7p1RVDC0fFuSqbsVfpKm9bmMOSzYDFTjVFUdmnb3xhTcLIAKL9WJPQJoBWnKy_8BNEUamm1jD_UsYXd-d3mviBaUHCYNvNmEQ1XPMxnc6ud6SXOYRNVJktGqxKpFoa5fPocucUocx-xmtGQJVSm_22YF_ecZYT_iZYO43LGowC7/w480-h640/20240125_150931.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The power company is doing some tree trimming in our area. I stopped to talk to them, and they agreed to bring the chipped-up trees to our yard! That makes me very excited! I will be busy spreading all this goodness on my garden paths, and around my berry bushes come spring. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujgZ6dzBoX2Wgz47k20EmxE2_PGZM20JuJNP1J3C5qSEexaBcHEsVedalKyA_ty1hdsMd5T_wabpWmM8LVhEhTJN0PQ9UpeMwcWi1gG6b4f93a5kXljYELqrsaaOOjm-P8xOa1mjaNFkBsyDKoLNQlvwwxYrGEX5A_fBIbahq_YSLSh5kfI0YXTSES1xy/s837/20240127_114944.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujgZ6dzBoX2Wgz47k20EmxE2_PGZM20JuJNP1J3C5qSEexaBcHEsVedalKyA_ty1hdsMd5T_wabpWmM8LVhEhTJN0PQ9UpeMwcWi1gG6b4f93a5kXljYELqrsaaOOjm-P8xOa1mjaNFkBsyDKoLNQlvwwxYrGEX5A_fBIbahq_YSLSh5kfI0YXTSES1xy/w640-h480/20240127_114944.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I've been making my own laundry soap, and loving it. I wanted to share the recipe with you. This recipe outlasts other laundry detergents by far - and our clothes get just as clean! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2Ww5svCGjy6EfKKxIz5sKYZutHl_mwXkxOgnxHnLLmAm3p7PE55lpDd3NDigwzI2K3pbEQYTjveTFQuAg57V3isOclTMUj-kXmz64AVKIhoWffDcriJS5pQqvL9y5FwBOXfU-odKBdwwhbuGg5ERgHLj5dWv4u3fHSj9dhAe_ztIFsMk0NxoDDnzxB-H/s837/20240127_114945.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2Ww5svCGjy6EfKKxIz5sKYZutHl_mwXkxOgnxHnLLmAm3p7PE55lpDd3NDigwzI2K3pbEQYTjveTFQuAg57V3isOclTMUj-kXmz64AVKIhoWffDcriJS5pQqvL9y5FwBOXfU-odKBdwwhbuGg5ERgHLj5dWv4u3fHSj9dhAe_ztIFsMk0NxoDDnzxB-H/w640-h480/20240127_114945.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Get a large bucket or tub. I used a tub purchased at the dollar store, but any large bucket will do. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGHLKBXISA6YhFGbT8nCrOmjVKYXRmjpii7eS32rAcok9EYtYuwtp3B_JZO-MdXEvRPsN0J0m4nR1IVU13PR2UckwLZ9J28-7rIFqXKVS7LzCXedinlDGmMa1y-Ao3xjImk9ylj-_Fo2fpm8PvejnDOal3nb7ef7V-elW-0jHJAf5-HhgOymLPDgK4B_S/s628/20240127_114950.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGHLKBXISA6YhFGbT8nCrOmjVKYXRmjpii7eS32rAcok9EYtYuwtp3B_JZO-MdXEvRPsN0J0m4nR1IVU13PR2UckwLZ9J28-7rIFqXKVS7LzCXedinlDGmMa1y-Ao3xjImk9ylj-_Fo2fpm8PvejnDOal3nb7ef7V-elW-0jHJAf5-HhgOymLPDgK4B_S/s320/20240127_114950.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll need 1 box of Borax<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvVNDwyShn-PLBrb5o2mjmRKtdorb3ghvrzoJN9A5j14rY6iGhoUA3uIPFPh1az-dyt1bgNE28F-fu80g6kKFNevqKpc-sE7s5nkwGCDaTrRv6pR4kG2mjGSoEcs7T9x6QwQN9VPsEje3c6bR2HSNgzZqHqC2S7seIBWFL0gAvMIRN4TF7muHZJ38MWN1/s628/20240127_114958.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvVNDwyShn-PLBrb5o2mjmRKtdorb3ghvrzoJN9A5j14rY6iGhoUA3uIPFPh1az-dyt1bgNE28F-fu80g6kKFNevqKpc-sE7s5nkwGCDaTrRv6pR4kG2mjGSoEcs7T9x6QwQN9VPsEje3c6bR2HSNgzZqHqC2S7seIBWFL0gAvMIRN4TF7muHZJ38MWN1/w300-h400/20240127_114958.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll need 1 quart of Epsom salt<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzqV9LhTtSDjVdf-EWxKBa-JMUHMlOMHtE3_TJooIxKFlunJFnKXgxw6dNi9sPhDIoq2zM7fDn0as_qo203f0hGHN-_h8072bL-ds2ygLfbFz03di5z2Z4O4zxTGTd_SLipYsLhDlFsbuD0-L0YlD-CSs67QYZHThw9tNC-rn8eIHdPTXkDa48eYKIEeS/s628/20240127_115001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzqV9LhTtSDjVdf-EWxKBa-JMUHMlOMHtE3_TJooIxKFlunJFnKXgxw6dNi9sPhDIoq2zM7fDn0as_qo203f0hGHN-_h8072bL-ds2ygLfbFz03di5z2Z4O4zxTGTd_SLipYsLhDlFsbuD0-L0YlD-CSs67QYZHThw9tNC-rn8eIHdPTXkDa48eYKIEeS/s320/20240127_115001.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll need 1 quart (4 cups) of baking soda. <br />I buy mine in bulk at Costco. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yPBRF7dgRBvPt0rGX15GiLcdpOYkGZT-_8Fj0VsZKPZ7gAtAkO96C0Btm4NF5t6NRPaFpcZwHeEim2rZQBgqLKBN54ZzIuY5g3ncGd2OVe_5QM_mUHCyoN_7_zdhTAmsGrbjfJS6HQ2XlI6SaywMn7-nHAmdfbCYovCmu3fl7hne3EcxfI8k-xWkggHn/s628/20240127_115003.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yPBRF7dgRBvPt0rGX15GiLcdpOYkGZT-_8Fj0VsZKPZ7gAtAkO96C0Btm4NF5t6NRPaFpcZwHeEim2rZQBgqLKBN54ZzIuY5g3ncGd2OVe_5QM_mUHCyoN_7_zdhTAmsGrbjfJS6HQ2XlI6SaywMn7-nHAmdfbCYovCmu3fl7hne3EcxfI8k-xWkggHn/s320/20240127_115003.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll need a box of washing soda. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_qNKidPPIp_ubcchEG_yAS7EHuAEqftbhajM8TpNeNFPMjEWhwhnJEoskCSb_JDHbc2xmKMQaeW9KGl6bn6UltDuVrMCBwRaAssWeiQRR4r2LOd0WB5E7JLse4rqC1jd1byei0WQCbqqMLqENnGxFCagI2WRlsh2b_jn9VSEjT5oQjIZ5JdwNM2fiJYR/s628/20240127_115005.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_qNKidPPIp_ubcchEG_yAS7EHuAEqftbhajM8TpNeNFPMjEWhwhnJEoskCSb_JDHbc2xmKMQaeW9KGl6bn6UltDuVrMCBwRaAssWeiQRR4r2LOd0WB5E7JLse4rqC1jd1byei0WQCbqqMLqENnGxFCagI2WRlsh2b_jn9VSEjT5oQjIZ5JdwNM2fiJYR/w300-h400/20240127_115005.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll need a tub of laundry booster, I found this natural "knockoff" OxyClean. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bJNj-oKwXhlipePLrdGJxYrl-LXHXm38gfxzhV8Ns5thFSO1H8fIeRdAsUrCSc5R6f84t5MGnqsW7s5ugfXfcP4WKhRLNGcVThgvFdSJxC6ucsPNxTQtWWDr7VCc9M2gZOvTTfDr-APv8opo_wiBdPqUOXqWNCdMyIoGFYP1OxUuWXm3y_3LUhFc32mQ/s628/20240127_115017.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bJNj-oKwXhlipePLrdGJxYrl-LXHXm38gfxzhV8Ns5thFSO1H8fIeRdAsUrCSc5R6f84t5MGnqsW7s5ugfXfcP4WKhRLNGcVThgvFdSJxC6ucsPNxTQtWWDr7VCc9M2gZOvTTfDr-APv8opo_wiBdPqUOXqWNCdMyIoGFYP1OxUuWXm3y_3LUhFc32mQ/w300-h400/20240127_115017.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Your favorite essential oil. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl8nvNcSuezIMGJWdMdpAHyGk7VFx1pJ6YCHg-wBTNYeef9ECDcM_Bh8zJTuly0cl0Y7DQjkxGU_jXCAOgb1UoM9KIon4IDlwaJIznNp_lyet7GxKMzgQhxVqlLNLP9g0QQv18NRMIoH-rtq5SMB7d2JSu1IaeMvbNtFbdKKo4U73FXKRT9cvBck3YBBhD/s628/20240127_115313.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl8nvNcSuezIMGJWdMdpAHyGk7VFx1pJ6YCHg-wBTNYeef9ECDcM_Bh8zJTuly0cl0Y7DQjkxGU_jXCAOgb1UoM9KIon4IDlwaJIznNp_lyet7GxKMzgQhxVqlLNLP9g0QQv18NRMIoH-rtq5SMB7d2JSu1IaeMvbNtFbdKKo4U73FXKRT9cvBck3YBBhD/s320/20240127_115313.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mix all ingredients in the big tub. Makes it easier to have it in a large container so you can easily mix it. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-emMO_Vb7HsYDcfyO_qaZslrc7u2YaTZ5VJS1C2M-rR1FDral3yDkn88KiymuVDZM9j6lRvosPIJrkxAJxJbzSrsdIkIImw6LrkcB1vx_Ibk1jXkk4h04l27sY5R44VmT4YuWW-APWrWXt2_Uj5WYjAvuu7UIRox27qtIU_rDYmnJfg4nSr0ztL_sRRi/s628/20240127_120134.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-emMO_Vb7HsYDcfyO_qaZslrc7u2YaTZ5VJS1C2M-rR1FDral3yDkn88KiymuVDZM9j6lRvosPIJrkxAJxJbzSrsdIkIImw6LrkcB1vx_Ibk1jXkk4h04l27sY5R44VmT4YuWW-APWrWXt2_Uj5WYjAvuu7UIRox27qtIU_rDYmnJfg4nSr0ztL_sRRi/w480-h640/20240127_120134.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Two 1-gallon jars would hold this recipe, but whatever containers you have on hand will <br />work. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here is the recipe:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 box Borax </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">4 cups baking soda</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 box washing soda</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 quart (4 cups) Epsom salt</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">4 cups Oxy-Clean (or similar)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Essential oil of choice</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mix all powders together. Stir until no chunks remain. Mix in 12-15 drops of essential oil of choice. Store detergent in two 1-gallon jars, or other containers of choice. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">To use: 1-2 tablespoons per load, more or less depending on how big your load is. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You will save a lot of money using this recipe! I only have to make this detergent about twice a year, for my husband and me. The total cost for all the ingredients is under $20. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Also, instead of using fabric softener, I just add 2 Tbsp vinegar to each wash - and my clothes are soft and smell amazing! Using more natural soaps to clean our clothes has been wonderful, and a huge savings for us! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKZd3dq7duAjViTrwNdVtoSqZWQTiphxnK6SpHbYXxfCfiib4cp2u8R1P198JynCK_Vt-2zfGF1_rZz2Se6UkV2jeQkFGZ32aftt_WP2J013RmBeV4L-VTDCzv0decu1JSVv2u_hUMQZuviktHlvoL5vFw_2zRxAtKDjaSLVz9oRJjIZ4_JWL2O1SGsxG/s837/20240127_121844.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKZd3dq7duAjViTrwNdVtoSqZWQTiphxnK6SpHbYXxfCfiib4cp2u8R1P198JynCK_Vt-2zfGF1_rZz2Se6UkV2jeQkFGZ32aftt_WP2J013RmBeV4L-VTDCzv0decu1JSVv2u_hUMQZuviktHlvoL5vFw_2zRxAtKDjaSLVz9oRJjIZ4_JWL2O1SGsxG/w640-h480/20240127_121844.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is a season for planning! There is still snow on the ground, but I am busy planning my garden for next year. I keep a lined notebook of all the seed packets I have planted. I try to remember to mark each seed packet when I start it (either inside, or in the ground). Then, at the end of each season, I staple in each seed packet, and I go back and write under the seed packet how it worked that year. It is helpful to go back and see which varieties work well in my garden. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTeSQsfq1NsKd54InjVOX7uZgTYQEOq6fxRjwJ0Y0FBUq2XODqAOC_Y9y1wMXhkvfS9zVuf-S5xEGx-4SDXxZ2Hk21xXfvUajbqwGeWhU-qBIlPReWt49PlTJjcoFLVrbZMaXHySHVWclevmHwhQw463SfICEeJS_1m3vkoCY7aZFs9w0IIHvGYhF2aTwH/s837/20240127_131154.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTeSQsfq1NsKd54InjVOX7uZgTYQEOq6fxRjwJ0Y0FBUq2XODqAOC_Y9y1wMXhkvfS9zVuf-S5xEGx-4SDXxZ2Hk21xXfvUajbqwGeWhU-qBIlPReWt49PlTJjcoFLVrbZMaXHySHVWclevmHwhQw463SfICEeJS_1m3vkoCY7aZFs9w0IIHvGYhF2aTwH/w640-h480/20240127_131154.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is my work table in my covered porch area. I separate out all my seeds according to when they will be planted. I will start some in February, March/April, and then in May/June when they go into the ground. I save my seeds from year to year and store them in empty bottles. I keep a list of all my seeds, and what seeds are necessary for me to order this year, if I don't have any on hand. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1IV8jjpjV02tqqBoltYR9K0YRaqePvwBkrJUOf_GtqpjMjA2GQACl0XSfvMCGLSzugB6x9IBL9-ZV7D59_X3SF_CxIx0jxoLaGFQer-azKH7xuU6vEZzMFUg8anEIH7bBIg5qbbV_Odn6ClMF7tSeGRN6PQziU9aTZMI1K215DzcQSvjNpFsJpbRzd8H/s837/20240127_134214.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1IV8jjpjV02tqqBoltYR9K0YRaqePvwBkrJUOf_GtqpjMjA2GQACl0XSfvMCGLSzugB6x9IBL9-ZV7D59_X3SF_CxIx0jxoLaGFQer-azKH7xuU6vEZzMFUg8anEIH7bBIg5qbbV_Odn6ClMF7tSeGRN6PQziU9aTZMI1K215DzcQSvjNpFsJpbRzd8H/w320-h240/20240127_134214.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I make a chart of all the seeds that I have on hand, either my own that I have gathered, or from another source, and then decide if I need to order more. Planting tomatoes, and peppers usually begins in late February!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3M7Repj2lHuy5bPK33ZF3XYNgIyXwuavliFFygY3SHvJd-gYOKK5GlDXKh6Vf1yNt9_yYBQGxbpi2H4BTbrN-LcsQ1g90-B9q76o1Ab9uTT2NF9nlbf0K1ICGYqBIpOjqFJfaylw_iIrPW8yB0ZpMFlYU1bNx3eHy7E96lJixzRUUhlAO0Kl1UqFJRnA/s628/20240127_171817.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3M7Repj2lHuy5bPK33ZF3XYNgIyXwuavliFFygY3SHvJd-gYOKK5GlDXKh6Vf1yNt9_yYBQGxbpi2H4BTbrN-LcsQ1g90-B9q76o1Ab9uTT2NF9nlbf0K1ICGYqBIpOjqFJfaylw_iIrPW8yB0ZpMFlYU1bNx3eHy7E96lJixzRUUhlAO0Kl1UqFJRnA/w480-h640/20240127_171817.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Most of you know that my husband and I have cut sugar out of our diet. However, we do enjoy a sweet treat now and then made with alternative sugars. We can use stevia and monk fruit occasionally in a little dessert, and it helps with the sweet tooth desires! <br /><br /><br />I follow a dear lady on FB, her name is <a href="https://www.sugarfreemom.com/" target="_blank">Brenda Bennett of www.sugarfreemom.com,</a> and she began developing recipes many years ago before all the "keto" recipes became popular. <a href="https://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/1-minute-sugar-free-chocolate-mug-cake-low-carb-dairy-gluten-free/" target="_blank">You can click to see her recipe here, but I will also post it below. </a> I like to make this sugar-free chocolate mug cake as a treat for us occasionally. I have modified the recipe a bit to suit our tastes. No flour! <br /><br /><br /></span><h4><span style="font-size: large;">1 Minute Sugar-Free Chocolate Mug Cake</span></h4><span style="font-size: large;">1 egg, beaten well<br />1 Tbsp cacao powder (cocoa powder also works)<br />1 Tbsp flaxseed meal<br />1 Tbsp alternative sugar (monk fruit, stevia, Swerve)<br />2 Tbsp almond milk<br />1/4 tsp baking powder<br />Dash salt<br /><br />Mix all together. Pour into a greased mug or ramekin. Cook in the microwave for 1 minute or longer depending on your microwave. The cake will pull away from the edges when done. <br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBQejmc1rmMaUMjrOrpTtyEDloegyyleDzYewbpmCSY58Tug3Ad59iJfJ8U2k6zVP-7eJHBnjJNtDH-mJpaH2EG58EuB1Y1qTerCYNfD-xZP7CwlM_sN1fIj6K31069w7-Nk2VyVIWyA5R26hYVTRRRwhz8d3j_UMSquSp13n0ptSoZ4_Fhh0Pxeynl-OG" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBQejmc1rmMaUMjrOrpTtyEDloegyyleDzYewbpmCSY58Tug3Ad59iJfJ8U2k6zVP-7eJHBnjJNtDH-mJpaH2EG58EuB1Y1qTerCYNfD-xZP7CwlM_sN1fIj6K31069w7-Nk2VyVIWyA5R26hYVTRRRwhz8d3j_UMSquSp13n0ptSoZ4_Fhh0Pxeynl-OG" width="240" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br />Top with Keto ice cream, if you'd like. We like the brand called "Keto". The flavor I used on mine is Butter Pecan, and it is delicious, with only 3 grams of carbs. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">You may remember last week I shared about the snow sliding off my roof. I submitted that video to the Weather Channel, and never heard any more from them. A friend reached out to me, asking me if that was me on Weather Channel. Sure enough, they posted my video! </span><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://weather.com/storms/winter/video/woman-catches-perfect-moment-melting-snow-slid-off-her-roof?pl=pl-the-latest&fbclid=IwAR08L-j0PMdwatIJfOxfGZJU0UdZc67FFgZskGA9E19OCsi9OEHlzTAzZl8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You can watch the video here</a> It was pretty amazing that I was able to catch the snow falling right in front of my window, because it comes so fast that you don't have time to grab a camera and turn on the video. Because it was so much snow up on the roof, there was a lot of snow falling, so I had time to catch it. It sounds like a train rumbling off the roof when it falls. We have learned what that sound is here, but the cats and Riley still get very nervous when the snow starts to slide. :) <br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GDLN1ann1R0" width="320" youtube-src-id="GDLN1ann1R0"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is my latest video - the photos I used are from a family trip that we took to Banff, BC, Canada in 2016. Some spectacular scenes that I don't think I've used before in my videos. "You'll Make It Through" is an encouraging song that no matter the difficulty, the Lord is with you, and you'll make it through! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-16" id="en-KJV-14807"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;"><span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 59:16-17 (KJV)</span></span></span></i></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-16"><br /></span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-16">But I will sing of thy power; </span></i></b></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-16">yea, I will sing aloud </span></i></b></div></i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Ps-59-16"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">of thy mercy in the morning: </span></i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Ps-59-16"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">for thou hast been my defence </span></i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-16"><span style="font-size: large;">and refuge in the day of my trouble.</span></span></i></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-17"><br /></span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="text Ps-59-17" id="en-KJV-14808">Unto thee, O my strength, </span></i></b></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Ps-59-17"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">will I sing: </span></i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Ps-59-17"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">for God is my defence, </span></i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-59-17">and the God of my mercy.</span><br /></span></i></b></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stay warm and safe, and be comforted in the Lord! No matter the "goings-on" around the world, and even in our own neighborhoods, remember that Jesus has the answer for it all. Our hope in Him sustains us! Sing unto the Lord when troubles worry you, He will take care of you :) </span></div></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-51711997402939990162024-01-22T18:46:00.000-08:002024-01-22T18:46:35.559-08:00These Cozy Winter Days<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Winter is a cozy season, wouldn't you agree? It feels wonderful to be warm and cozy inside when it's cold outside! During the winter, I enjoy working on indoor projects, because from March until November I spend most of my time outside tending to our yard and garden. I'd rather be outdoors than inside! But, since winter offers me the chance - I have been at my computer more, working on some organizing projects, drinking a lot of hot tea, and visiting precious blog friends that I don't often get to visit!</span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've also been writing (you can follow my writing adventures on<a href="https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0CLKW84T8" target="_blank"> Kindle Vella here)</a> and creating videos on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgDpyHGNzfQ&list=PLaSu6EH8bVFUmoLyGYjNlhcBV3x-myI2O" target="_blank">YouTube channel HERE</a>. I've been preparing for the Ladies' Bible study I co-teach, and you can find my most recent lessons <a href="https://rumble.com/v48fndn-ladies-bible-study-join-us-as-we-study-understanding-gods-plan-vs-satans-pl.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://rumble.com/v45v4g9-did-god-create-evil.html" target="_blank">HERE. </a> But mostly - I've been enjoying some wonderful cups of hot tea! </span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiED8JAZnL4Il2wqupbovHEX28G5W5Nr_ryATzhYSeoLgTuKkJ1oSEJHJgvG2aeF2UmRp1hqm-lkrn-6rN2VQvgCY9k1kKH8L4X3dbkOVFoVvoIx8cI_bDXtifuLnarQ7fzHFMEhvKPrHSh3gBwWpAKz8NG336Cn5kh3EbI2WpXKfa1-CMD_YwmtGcckMFE/s628/20240119_101119~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiED8JAZnL4Il2wqupbovHEX28G5W5Nr_ryATzhYSeoLgTuKkJ1oSEJHJgvG2aeF2UmRp1hqm-lkrn-6rN2VQvgCY9k1kKH8L4X3dbkOVFoVvoIx8cI_bDXtifuLnarQ7fzHFMEhvKPrHSh3gBwWpAKz8NG336Cn5kh3EbI2WpXKfa1-CMD_YwmtGcckMFE/w480-h640/20240119_101119~2.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXeuwu2HDRfkyseQ-EmhDViN79GNXgDdBkNTe3NIaH08JM17iIvpnVkDVtQq4IfiDCqn8Lk2B3RlI5krZwiQY4WS2o-tc01cBznGWKdNye7AfQgwTVSzlvqMhJ54OREuidkCr_ez9QSwsuAW_Fdj9LRjicJxsLa-SpqExNqSmKLMmZBG6SC3dBM7ZK4M4P/s628/20240120_111632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXeuwu2HDRfkyseQ-EmhDViN79GNXgDdBkNTe3NIaH08JM17iIvpnVkDVtQq4IfiDCqn8Lk2B3RlI5krZwiQY4WS2o-tc01cBznGWKdNye7AfQgwTVSzlvqMhJ54OREuidkCr_ez9QSwsuAW_Fdj9LRjicJxsLa-SpqExNqSmKLMmZBG6SC3dBM7ZK4M4P/w480-h640/20240120_111632.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A dear neighbor came over this past weekend, and she had just purchased a set of <br />cross-country skis. I was so excited because now I have a neighbor who loves it as much as I do and we can ski together! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7WgIF39yG74XRQiKUrLe5BMfOX84WRtxoAvqUs_NqKN_tJy9l-dPQ_6BSAbBvVRplZ6C2NehlyxuSOXx6_FizHayaWs_HPjmsOygFJlFL6QP1kKBc3hm29tQJkJ-JveR5CWOH2i07AM_1Nyyg17WbslhGzNZtS5ZVSRIjcKCI9SRscBOvjpPrkZ__-d3/s628/20240120_120918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7WgIF39yG74XRQiKUrLe5BMfOX84WRtxoAvqUs_NqKN_tJy9l-dPQ_6BSAbBvVRplZ6C2NehlyxuSOXx6_FizHayaWs_HPjmsOygFJlFL6QP1kKBc3hm29tQJkJ-JveR5CWOH2i07AM_1Nyyg17WbslhGzNZtS5ZVSRIjcKCI9SRscBOvjpPrkZ__-d3/w480-h640/20240120_120918.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our ski was for the most part uneventful - we had to ski under<br />these two downed tree arches! Aren't they pretty! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LQXtpP8t1RyhwuVzEmJZlfrYJO_sue41SMxTQURl3K7eL9sQxzk2va1uKIuIFJ2IxQPWOb_u-NFwvOpZ57yx0wn7exBkpUG5nPTBzAvxJKRiEOdYWD7lAw1XFTxlXx59Wv0nIEmm_JWO5Inqr783BruxRAoUeZ1GvAw0knccQ5jEVMwGr5M61xvDryyg/s2998/PSX_20240122_175924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2586" data-original-width="2998" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LQXtpP8t1RyhwuVzEmJZlfrYJO_sue41SMxTQURl3K7eL9sQxzk2va1uKIuIFJ2IxQPWOb_u-NFwvOpZ57yx0wn7exBkpUG5nPTBzAvxJKRiEOdYWD7lAw1XFTxlXx59Wv0nIEmm_JWO5Inqr783BruxRAoUeZ1GvAw0knccQ5jEVMwGr5M61xvDryyg/w399-h344/PSX_20240122_175924.jpg" width="399" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I'm so happy to have a neighbor close by who enjoys skiing as much as I do! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzAipBtX740-zFCkOrooD1tNnF1h_RGx3MlpCXVI45itD29Xv3HwN8q7HSEYX1pgXs0zo4fwnm1pqw2xXcHAB81x0w7y2gMVSbTwWEyIiSJcb5QHMu-zeOYY9eQZbYncjZiMxKz8dBnYNORggiehypgoTln2_0wNx-vasCsaVu-2QYCAuAjDz4coi8dKy/s628/20240121_114510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzAipBtX740-zFCkOrooD1tNnF1h_RGx3MlpCXVI45itD29Xv3HwN8q7HSEYX1pgXs0zo4fwnm1pqw2xXcHAB81x0w7y2gMVSbTwWEyIiSJcb5QHMu-zeOYY9eQZbYncjZiMxKz8dBnYNORggiehypgoTln2_0wNx-vasCsaVu-2QYCAuAjDz4coi8dKy/w480-h640/20240121_114510.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">While we were out skiing, I gathered cards from our game cameras. <br />This coyote was the only wildlife on my camera cards other than the usual turkeys and deer. You just never know what is poking around in the woods! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0S-aUwevIqq8YiznIlEd-QEePngxhHvzQlU9eXSg31NpVwsqBPrW-k8Y5EtgkSYvFGaOu10FbEY2Y3R5ArBfY43MlwAvr4DT0v0gRL-Qc4ojbveUhe4cLkUCxMd1HacseMrOIvNq9bUONg3umJS8H1d_E7EgpABnHHJ7DC7Yt6DRw0RrJKk9z_ADE6h0/s837/20240121_074600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0S-aUwevIqq8YiznIlEd-QEePngxhHvzQlU9eXSg31NpVwsqBPrW-k8Y5EtgkSYvFGaOu10FbEY2Y3R5ArBfY43MlwAvr4DT0v0gRL-Qc4ojbveUhe4cLkUCxMd1HacseMrOIvNq9bUONg3umJS8H1d_E7EgpABnHHJ7DC7Yt6DRw0RrJKk9z_ADE6h0/w640-h480/20240121_074600.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">After our skiing on Saturday, we enjoyed a cup of hot tea together - I didn't get a picture of that. When my neighbor was leaving to go home, it started to rain - freezing rain. Shortly afterward, it became quite obvious that home was the best destination for the evening! <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh737hoPYk6-2FzoqsNutiFSR712OnW-I8G1SC_3TIlFwm4PzmklG6tE-zOK45ZHW4nNV0WEusFdquMPD_vrYip5avaBiM03rlwtUD2aZVIGMHZJoW1sxoUNtbfNmJyue4D6dJKcIosQkBewG2qIbN_oAXRXlI9T9V6d7LUAKfpGCi_MzyZci7M9GnY5wIu/s837/20240121_075138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh737hoPYk6-2FzoqsNutiFSR712OnW-I8G1SC_3TIlFwm4PzmklG6tE-zOK45ZHW4nNV0WEusFdquMPD_vrYip5avaBiM03rlwtUD2aZVIGMHZJoW1sxoUNtbfNmJyue4D6dJKcIosQkBewG2qIbN_oAXRXlI9T9V6d7LUAKfpGCi_MzyZci7M9GnY5wIu/w640-h480/20240121_075138.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The next morning, Dan, Riley and I walked on the side of the road where there was still snow The road itself was a skating rink! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX8w0q50lDwrPiih6eIF1ldprxKSRq6FvPCdueWZjTQjWmoSr2DO93BRz59ihO0VHdcgmrslLqBG90LRgVt1al0xHN_aEL-E8oAD6AHc72SUm9r-kvb8ka9DCfwubbMth_j9r0raQoqxjCb8IexNk0cm05SArChIaaIAe4Y0oSiKxZdjCWUhZM4QUlr-1m/s628/20240121_080548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX8w0q50lDwrPiih6eIF1ldprxKSRq6FvPCdueWZjTQjWmoSr2DO93BRz59ihO0VHdcgmrslLqBG90LRgVt1al0xHN_aEL-E8oAD6AHc72SUm9r-kvb8ka9DCfwubbMth_j9r0raQoqxjCb8IexNk0cm05SArChIaaIAe4Y0oSiKxZdjCWUhZM4QUlr-1m/w480-h640/20240121_080548.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is all the ice buildup on my pickup. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhjUNDlri_t74jkjhgsYLb-qBiZxJf8vlaGLvCeKQ3zBAcQ9bmhg5gHOv0BGehqMdl6xz9I6sDT3c8Dy2KYlHs9i-b9TosS1W9BeoX7Q1qMoelhgBrIxVIjEikuUVYKbefBjYlAO_i2tmO7cRGzyUP4Q7GjEciUwr6sxAvfroc90axtlBUvi3UBobVSEX/s837/20240121_081047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhjUNDlri_t74jkjhgsYLb-qBiZxJf8vlaGLvCeKQ3zBAcQ9bmhg5gHOv0BGehqMdl6xz9I6sDT3c8Dy2KYlHs9i-b9TosS1W9BeoX7Q1qMoelhgBrIxVIjEikuUVYKbefBjYlAO_i2tmO7cRGzyUP4Q7GjEciUwr6sxAvfroc90axtlBUvi3UBobVSEX/w640-h480/20240121_081047.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I went into the garden where the ice was <br />flattering the frosted plants in the most beautiful form! <br /><br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFNpUCYO9hRa57od4Fw9wQhet6rusM3av5Rc2lbp17TBnVa3FFD5PfPnSrzgzUVNp4T7c_TcH0393VrAImFbncwk_48TbKGmxptE1HPBSsx83XTSDoLoB0JEukLM892jq15UcMi67N8pqvIc1jyV88FpwuyUWWyJWBoYgmdO3wE3hCH2u0FBlGZ9loZgdK/s628/20240121_102134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="547" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFNpUCYO9hRa57od4Fw9wQhet6rusM3av5Rc2lbp17TBnVa3FFD5PfPnSrzgzUVNp4T7c_TcH0393VrAImFbncwk_48TbKGmxptE1HPBSsx83XTSDoLoB0JEukLM892jq15UcMi67N8pqvIc1jyV88FpwuyUWWyJWBoYgmdO3wE3hCH2u0FBlGZ9loZgdK/w410-h547/20240121_102134.jpg" width="410" /></a><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Later that afternoon, the weather shifted, and it began to warm up. All that snow<br />that had accumulated over the past couple of weeks was still on our roof. <br />Suddenly, it warmed up enough, that the snow began to slide off... watch the very short video below - </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">it is amazing to see the snow slide off our roof like an avalanche!! This happens </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">often in the winter, but this is one of the few times I've been able to catch it on video. </span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xnylIIH0sPM" width="320" youtube-src-id="xnylIIH0sPM"></iframe><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I know that almost everyone has been struggling with a lot of snow/ice/cold weather these days across the northern hemisphere. When the weather outside is too miserable to be outside, it is nice to stay inside and enjoy the coziness of home. I light candles, have fairy lights on timers that light up the darkness and play soft background music. There are a few books that I've been reading, and I also study for the bible studies I teach. I have been writing for Kindle Vella, and I've been working on getting more episodes published. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If you don't know what Kindle Vella is - let me explain. It is a unique form of the Kindle reader that allows the reader to pay by chapter or "episode" instead of paying for the entire book. You buy tokens through the Kindle app and then you can read 3 episodes of any author's work for free. On the 4th episode, if you've determined you like the author enough, you use your purchased tokens to read further into the book. This is helpful for new authors, because no one knows who you are, and it takes getting the exposure this way to build readership. Have you heard of Kindle Vella? Do you use Kindle books/apps at all to read? Please let me know below... So I have been writing and publishing on Kindle Vella and will continue to do so. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've also been sorting through and deciding on my garden seeds and what I will need to plant this coming year. My husband recently discovered that sugar is a problem for him, and starches too. So, we have cut sugars, and root vegetables, such as potatoes out of our diet for now. His blood sugars have stabilized, and he has lost quite a bit of weight and feels so much better. For that reason, I won't be planting potatoes this year. This is sad for me - and him - because we both love potatoes so much. But we do feel better if we don't eat them. We have been enjoying our meals with just meat, dairy, and brassica vegetables (green veggies!) Both of us feel so much better and know that this is a lifestyle change for us. So... I will be planting more spinach, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, and peppers this year. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Have you started thinking about spring? I think we all start to get a little stir-crazy when winter weather hems us in. While I love being cozy - and I love getting outside to ski - when the weather is so miserable that I can't do much of that - I start to feel ready for spring. How about you? </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I made a few other videos, these 2 below are shorter videos. I hope you will enjoy them! Like, subscribe, and share - as the saying goes! It means a lot to me to have your support as I share my photography through the videos. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1IEKmBv04_Y" width="320" youtube-src-id="1IEKmBv04_Y"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TK1DKuRjUdk" width="320" youtube-src-id="TK1DKuRjUdk"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This video I have just finished working on today and I think you will enjoy it. The instrumental music is played by a young man who is local to our area. He plays the piano beautifully. There are no words, just piano music, and it makes great background music! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yGVgtFf15bM" width="320" youtube-src-id="yGVgtFf15bM"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A scripture I'd like to leave with your heart today to bless you with. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Malachi 3:16-17</span></i></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Then they that feared the Lord </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">spake often one to another: </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>a</i><i>nd the Lord hearkened and heard it, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and a book of remembrance </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">was written before him </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">for them that feared the Lord, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and that thought upon His name. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And they shall be mine, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">saith the Lord of hosts, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">in that day when I make up my jewels. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The Lord is keeping a book of remembrance for those who "fear the Lord, and speak often one to another" about Him! Isn't that encouraging! The Lord knows those who love Him, and is keeping a "book of remembrance" about us! This is a good thing to remember - let's speak often about the Lord :) </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Wishing each of you a blessed and wonderful week! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br />Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-85087911692035973842024-01-16T07:00:00.000-08:002024-01-16T07:00:26.117-08:00 Subzero Morning Walks and Cross Country Skiing, and a WINNER<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Are you experiencing cold and/or subzero temperatures where you live? It seems as though the entire North American hemisphere has been experiencing some wild winter weather of some kind in the last few days. On Thursday we got a few inches of snow followed by icy polar temperatures with the coldest temperature we saw at -23 degrees on Saturday morning....</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNK_b1mw4_cWHr6IEWiQjOMgUxit4G8Ndb0I1TIModKiA662OUPwz6pdndxVHbpKfvX0RL0D081M6LN5bA3BcSx-SKrRPTfIOjw0K9LExYRDbXaZlRlfeLurb4M2wDKQQA-l4RKhAVKpkzsthWrHcORWd2dww5GbxY7lrThjJCeNVtC9fAhL9RMO1tPMBc/s837/20240110_162104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNK_b1mw4_cWHr6IEWiQjOMgUxit4G8Ndb0I1TIModKiA662OUPwz6pdndxVHbpKfvX0RL0D081M6LN5bA3BcSx-SKrRPTfIOjw0K9LExYRDbXaZlRlfeLurb4M2wDKQQA-l4RKhAVKpkzsthWrHcORWd2dww5GbxY7lrThjJCeNVtC9fAhL9RMO1tPMBc/w400-h300/20240110_162104.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I love my Thomas Kincaid teapot lamp that I made <br />sitting with the gorgeous afternoon sunset as its backdrop. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAZPSRY_NUantskzSXOb9lVM5ho8doUWVQ2gyHlcUM38oqYa7wk-Tl6AuQSZttcTRcaFuNVG5IJ1df8OudCrFiGeMRksL46AIgvYcSBP08-IT8XskBl468AffDtKq76GU7Am9ZUV7_BS1mT9CkAUqUhf_DOgkcCBao-xX0K0mJ5MBE1FcCBjkkyzlNszi/s628/20240113_073051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAZPSRY_NUantskzSXOb9lVM5ho8doUWVQ2gyHlcUM38oqYa7wk-Tl6AuQSZttcTRcaFuNVG5IJ1df8OudCrFiGeMRksL46AIgvYcSBP08-IT8XskBl468AffDtKq76GU7Am9ZUV7_BS1mT9CkAUqUhf_DOgkcCBao-xX0K0mJ5MBE1FcCBjkkyzlNszi/w480-h640/20240113_073051.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yes, we had -23 temperatures here this weekend. On Saturday morning, we saw the coldest temperature that I remember seeing in recent years. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSsqUwGPQAq-p7lGjIj_-qlHnEgzA-BrM1IKENpnXnKAqCoeWiWtBWUj_09_6ru2vBNmkQDcVPpDVUB27JjDZlCX0xPZvArVdGSIt9hz1iG8jQdL9TpUvMv3eepyxlBYP09huUF-JO7M37t0E89CHfFPPO-IYF_Tf_aO1iZxIbOaH7tOW7-K3J5EPVGwe/s628/20240112_083154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSsqUwGPQAq-p7lGjIj_-qlHnEgzA-BrM1IKENpnXnKAqCoeWiWtBWUj_09_6ru2vBNmkQDcVPpDVUB27JjDZlCX0xPZvArVdGSIt9hz1iG8jQdL9TpUvMv3eepyxlBYP09huUF-JO7M37t0E89CHfFPPO-IYF_Tf_aO1iZxIbOaH7tOW7-K3J5EPVGwe/w480-h640/20240112_083154.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">No matter the temperature - Riley and I walked. I was bundled up a bit like an igloo, but I was toasty warm, and we walked at a brisk pace. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NDHzVyEyQcJgg7RRJiJgC575xlM-IO_39O4JCjkxZfkBxOcQZ_ppVlimE2DNw056RjDNIqp1ZP3dE6-aBClQSWcBj5lr8RI-b8VNXaa3zYs95NMBG8iCJMc3iAnJrgz0nkExtqqkYNcjQYWbcsgOnbarGoQx1SSN6AgI8uLk7mozAm43bCiON5SVGO7e/s628/20240115_072955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NDHzVyEyQcJgg7RRJiJgC575xlM-IO_39O4JCjkxZfkBxOcQZ_ppVlimE2DNw056RjDNIqp1ZP3dE6-aBClQSWcBj5lr8RI-b8VNXaa3zYs95NMBG8iCJMc3iAnJrgz0nkExtqqkYNcjQYWbcsgOnbarGoQx1SSN6AgI8uLk7mozAm43bCiON5SVGO7e/w480-h640/20240115_072955.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Icy cold roads! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySlRMM6THv0xZuh5Fs_2-P2dPOU1byyVW-X0HrTYLmfZIy-KVO6vjBYHJGrbhgsI1Y_5VHcxnfPd2rMKnWEKr4pebLHLEIqHMez768Jy7MEFVenxRMFOBEZPxmy56X3-_NDwrp9cKQDcXUHj0JOkDrDY-43hQ10bmgaS4ixDZeubw84ePZMu7KI8utZbB/s837/20240113_074759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySlRMM6THv0xZuh5Fs_2-P2dPOU1byyVW-X0HrTYLmfZIy-KVO6vjBYHJGrbhgsI1Y_5VHcxnfPd2rMKnWEKr4pebLHLEIqHMez768Jy7MEFVenxRMFOBEZPxmy56X3-_NDwrp9cKQDcXUHj0JOkDrDY-43hQ10bmgaS4ixDZeubw84ePZMu7KI8utZbB/w640-h480/20240113_074759.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I just love how the rising sun paints the mountains with its rosy glow. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAcU7QjQmoc1rVoTAtL0XkXRxLLAO-HQ5qTyZajbJ0Wg_xLVSg5vU9vtiwJHhdXeFpJzYc0ZYYZRoQKdF4_Vrg26nllbctbqufc-PIL_p8QYpiRgjH5TxQYvnWsbzvyCJFPpkBWXIReyqvfy42Xv8mqbRcAfKR6g7xVJmKVX-4atGtQyZ3oplURgEdWll/s837/20240112_075048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAcU7QjQmoc1rVoTAtL0XkXRxLLAO-HQ5qTyZajbJ0Wg_xLVSg5vU9vtiwJHhdXeFpJzYc0ZYYZRoQKdF4_Vrg26nllbctbqufc-PIL_p8QYpiRgjH5TxQYvnWsbzvyCJFPpkBWXIReyqvfy42Xv8mqbRcAfKR6g7xVJmKVX-4atGtQyZ3oplURgEdWll/w640-h480/20240112_075048.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A neighbor's farm as it sits under the rosy colored skies. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdsjfkQxqV5HPPSNody1Kjz0l4u3Xh7SvN6m08fchtJV9rq0s6YU1R1Wrkj_GI_NA1_d8Izr1VN_wuI6LHWmpk3l43BqOskURexb6-Ek4TzCfSvJI5_KWRbgoiZZ3RKKSnqmd5DWQTFldURPGhYHoAv1m0blQnGbYUY-I6l3v9Y8QhtQkD3fQjyZ3HXI-/s628/20240110_081127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdsjfkQxqV5HPPSNody1Kjz0l4u3Xh7SvN6m08fchtJV9rq0s6YU1R1Wrkj_GI_NA1_d8Izr1VN_wuI6LHWmpk3l43BqOskURexb6-Ek4TzCfSvJI5_KWRbgoiZZ3RKKSnqmd5DWQTFldURPGhYHoAv1m0blQnGbYUY-I6l3v9Y8QhtQkD3fQjyZ3HXI-/w480-h640/20240110_081127.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My faithful walking companion, Miss Riley. Her paws don't get cold in the snow, as she has fur inside her paws - she loves the snow as much as I do! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHmdUdciyRRuDeZ1dYHGvyYiKouqHIqpsrNkCjQmQjOi_1WGBiN47or36EoqhRr9jPAZiBjYKiMXL_zqt3Y5-lQG4ZroUW9tMjAQFgzug2VHQweNMywro80Gu4D_x2RflzbcLlRrUSYIR2Xp25QCbf8Kn2eRIOc3zaIWYB8TlAuJQi-998zbKiSyo6SGx/s628/20240114_080338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHmdUdciyRRuDeZ1dYHGvyYiKouqHIqpsrNkCjQmQjOi_1WGBiN47or36EoqhRr9jPAZiBjYKiMXL_zqt3Y5-lQG4ZroUW9tMjAQFgzug2VHQweNMywro80Gu4D_x2RflzbcLlRrUSYIR2Xp25QCbf8Kn2eRIOc3zaIWYB8TlAuJQi-998zbKiSyo6SGx/w300-h400/20240114_080338.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Snow on her nose - always sticking her nose in the snow! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mnIibSn7DrRECsEv0REECd0zn4kLtRkH022AisCLM0Oa9f57PlSXP9AWacc43lcrY2QghHfIpwgjGWrGEHXndHn8kGgf7pwwHuLma6bD-wEhzQc7F6_x8Z9vAEzKKJ1aCERWCTyT609dFACnhpdk3-4q5DlbZH6tnCEeobwGfaahx6JRMEsGDSNpBSaO/s628/20240111_162010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mnIibSn7DrRECsEv0REECd0zn4kLtRkH022AisCLM0Oa9f57PlSXP9AWacc43lcrY2QghHfIpwgjGWrGEHXndHn8kGgf7pwwHuLma6bD-wEhzQc7F6_x8Z9vAEzKKJ1aCERWCTyT609dFACnhpdk3-4q5DlbZH6tnCEeobwGfaahx6JRMEsGDSNpBSaO/w480-h640/20240111_162010.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the afternoon - we go for a cross-country ski! My first ski of the winter - it was a <br />chilly one, at -15 degrees. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GSELyYWgHVHQ99sz6vnERUAFADJ9yJp7U-4l1vizbOjISa8_4T-r1Pb2Q9si0sAdM4VV44k2rhqjqkTe6Scjg0_J5bFSqb8EFoEOaH1hnzCNWlgSvNPt6MlXcxlt_D_dmQL-Y9iVgXiN02MQ1s61XWnJU8kyWyn1-BLSt8qJrNA9odNgQ0c5oMsB_qSZ/s837/20240111_162022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GSELyYWgHVHQ99sz6vnERUAFADJ9yJp7U-4l1vizbOjISa8_4T-r1Pb2Q9si0sAdM4VV44k2rhqjqkTe6Scjg0_J5bFSqb8EFoEOaH1hnzCNWlgSvNPt6MlXcxlt_D_dmQL-Y9iVgXiN02MQ1s61XWnJU8kyWyn1-BLSt8qJrNA9odNgQ0c5oMsB_qSZ/w640-h480/20240111_162022.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A beautifully cold view! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-lPcssXiaVd6UC9qit7vw9Kzb64mT3G5MFqsc7v1ab1iW1zfI0ZAxF_Sc_DXmfbsyGGjDck7zJmXOlCIUeBaafaxxYAXijAqFBmf3emmvkW57mzu0TcKca1WbXrkVJ1h1X943hgBRnKNaDfd60aivz3BPLDIvtJIEsURS8fy77HS8SJ70jNr3BQcJTY9/s628/20240115_085611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-lPcssXiaVd6UC9qit7vw9Kzb64mT3G5MFqsc7v1ab1iW1zfI0ZAxF_Sc_DXmfbsyGGjDck7zJmXOlCIUeBaafaxxYAXijAqFBmf3emmvkW57mzu0TcKca1WbXrkVJ1h1X943hgBRnKNaDfd60aivz3BPLDIvtJIEsURS8fy77HS8SJ70jNr3BQcJTY9/w480-h640/20240115_085611.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It's always nice to come back home after being outside for a hot cup of tea! <br />I like my Ingenuitea teapot - it brews a lovely pot of tea :) You may notice<br />my sourdough starter in the background. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqiZ86N6xJ9vEFO22awDaLPpbEve7IPqctSmYZ8HNiVO5TLLJVROJesyPHcqGnOvecGbbgnt7cnY_D5u4aH3vLcVhcBChsUyjKEj1IjfIT2cSKDMSx_KvBof_uk9CMl_6-IKa1adMQARUgsev73vilVRCPJJ6-AiyM-l3UHdPWKse43CCSfRYxfa5ZUB7/s628/20240114_163619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqiZ86N6xJ9vEFO22awDaLPpbEve7IPqctSmYZ8HNiVO5TLLJVROJesyPHcqGnOvecGbbgnt7cnY_D5u4aH3vLcVhcBChsUyjKEj1IjfIT2cSKDMSx_KvBof_uk9CMl_6-IKa1adMQARUgsev73vilVRCPJJ6-AiyM-l3UHdPWKse43CCSfRYxfa5ZUB7/w480-h640/20240114_163619.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our dinner Sunday evening - roasted salmon with vegetables and <br />jalapeno poppers - so good! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8sLe_w5jBEtHSlcIgSCFOENOaLWB-7Kko2NmPTtoZGLYx6FYcEvuQyuxWU-iGDl4HIkIdFn6S_C6Rr7c28RO4xw4s8aFwV67jjllAEWsXMnRAz0Bthf1mP7fzFJ_L9yaHQwP9_hSuLyLqvu4LtH7h71GgiRHYJoW2t4jd62lx9bcVj9Pt7lwWXG5s4RE/s628/20240109_174411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8sLe_w5jBEtHSlcIgSCFOENOaLWB-7Kko2NmPTtoZGLYx6FYcEvuQyuxWU-iGDl4HIkIdFn6S_C6Rr7c28RO4xw4s8aFwV67jjllAEWsXMnRAz0Bthf1mP7fzFJ_L9yaHQwP9_hSuLyLqvu4LtH7h71GgiRHYJoW2t4jd62lx9bcVj9Pt7lwWXG5s4RE/w300-h400/20240109_174411.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />With all the winter weather we've been having - we keep two containers of 5 gallons of water ready in case of a power outage. Thankfully, we have not lost power with the cold temperatures that we have had. Having extra water is always a good thing. <br /><br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxG0QwRx4yHuittuglqehvpHCCo_6zWwEvIH_B6YYlW8KJ9xL3bAMMDnteVnUfBjQ8WRbh9hRUKEgZC6rAH7zlFHf5w9Cu2xUTQKHtMuBFpaOWa9fGlUsZ8A0KXJ5TXB5_riF9QtQfiqJA4HQCbNf0dQiNKpKvuzzjw4tul9D5eg7XPs2-ybpveyAJt3Q/s4000/20240115_143059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxG0QwRx4yHuittuglqehvpHCCo_6zWwEvIH_B6YYlW8KJ9xL3bAMMDnteVnUfBjQ8WRbh9hRUKEgZC6rAH7zlFHf5w9Cu2xUTQKHtMuBFpaOWa9fGlUsZ8A0KXJ5TXB5_riF9QtQfiqJA4HQCbNf0dQiNKpKvuzzjw4tul9D5eg7XPs2-ybpveyAJt3Q/s320/20240115_143059.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br />We also have a Buddy Heater as a backup. It heats our entire tiny home and is an extra heat source for us since we don't have wood heat. Our home is heated with propane, but that runs on electricity so this is our backup heat source in case of power outages. We also keep our water lines dripping - both hot and cold water, and thankfully all our water lines have not frozen during this cold snap. So thankful for that! <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TK1DKuRjUdk" width="320" youtube-src-id="TK1DKuRjUdk"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">With all the winter weather we have been having, I made a short video of </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">my walk in the subzero weather! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k8SxJrPToMo" width="320" youtube-src-id="k8SxJrPToMo"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This is my newest video - enjoy these worship songs to uplift your heart </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">as you praise and worship the Lord who made this beautiful creation for us to enjoy! </span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />And now, I'd like to introduce the winner of my blog giveaway! I reviewed an amazing </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">book written by a friend in an online Writer's Group I am a part of. Jennifer recently </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">published this book, and I wanted to read, review, and do a giveaway of her book. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Since there is only one winner - I encourage those who haven't won - please visit </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">her website here: </span><a href="http://www.JenniferLSelf.com" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">www.JenniferLSelf.com</a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> and get to know Jennifer better. She is a blogger, a homeschool mom, and loves and serves the Lord and her family. You will be </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">blessed to meet her!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Now, without further ado...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">THE WINNER OF MY GIVEAWAY IS....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>MARI!</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Mari left a comment that said: </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.3px; text-align: justify;">Your photos of the area around you are always just stunning! </span><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.3px; text-align: justify;">I love the lantern. It's a beautiful keepsake. </span><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.3px; text-align: justify;">The book sounds so good!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Mari - please email me your mailing address </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>and I will get the book shipped to you!</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Many blessings to all of you who have been such faithful readers! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May you stay warm and healthy in these cold January days! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Psalms 56:3-4</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In God I will praise His Word. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In God, I have put my trust: I will not fear</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">what flesh can do unto me. </span></div><br /><p></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-40069103536126865632024-01-09T11:10:00.000-08:002024-01-09T11:15:25.898-08:00Happy January, A Book Review AND a GIVEAWAY! <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">How is your January going so far? I know many of you, including our area here in Idaho have gotten some snow this week - and I'm hoping before the end of the week to be able to get out and go cross-country skiing in our back acreage. We got about a foot of snow overnight, but it is very sticky and wet - not the best kind of snow to ski in. But - this weekend, we are supposed to get sub-zero temps and beautiful sunshine - and this is great skiing weather, so I look forward to it all. In the meantime, I wanted to share with you some beautiful pictures I've taken - AND then something exciting! I am doing a book giveaway today! I will introduce you to the author, and the book, share my review of the book, and then you'll get a chance to win the book. Your heart will be VERY blessed by the message of this book! <span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpToNtqMMrElM5huonwEjH5be3aNaSPuQ7ILMT4WzSV8Je27Hr-f3Csxh1o95-Zdaj6IpEGcVjfHSZ03wlecpTWHpa7P5gSyE6Xh8_rEl9TsQvhDisU4zauRml0jmoAgbHgStSwM_8DMuRKWyx-sfPDLuE9KD9Rxc0Abk-xbsH9A3507PVTxn0coX6HOF/s837/PSX_20240107_070427.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpToNtqMMrElM5huonwEjH5be3aNaSPuQ7ILMT4WzSV8Je27Hr-f3Csxh1o95-Zdaj6IpEGcVjfHSZ03wlecpTWHpa7P5gSyE6Xh8_rEl9TsQvhDisU4zauRml0jmoAgbHgStSwM_8DMuRKWyx-sfPDLuE9KD9Rxc0Abk-xbsH9A3507PVTxn0coX6HOF/w640-h480/PSX_20240107_070427.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImWnd-82CL4wVr-IIGQB6vwCildMKqMYh6LfdaznNFul_dAi3b430QgNfN7fvhuMyZVoNKQROX40VoBanDgLGxhrAV_dfvMAINN4BFJFQT7-95lyMPHvMLQT54oiLQz-fuJup2Kb1QbL17UPAhyphenhyphenZRggFRCZ_0a0IAWEoGcF9Ot1W387jUFVjcgxuTSREE/s679/PSX_20240108_113701.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="679" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImWnd-82CL4wVr-IIGQB6vwCildMKqMYh6LfdaznNFul_dAi3b430QgNfN7fvhuMyZVoNKQROX40VoBanDgLGxhrAV_dfvMAINN4BFJFQT7-95lyMPHvMLQT54oiLQz-fuJup2Kb1QbL17UPAhyphenhyphenZRggFRCZ_0a0IAWEoGcF9Ot1W387jUFVjcgxuTSREE/w640-h592/PSX_20240108_113701.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I snapped this picture with my cell phone out my office window - this little guy has been a very consistent visitor to our suet feeders. It is interesting to watch him through the window!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlomHEEKyRNTjrbYX8-dHjAerPokiVI3OzVcrN-3k41cfOXvRwwcdpBT7cj-Y6htw_JQuDkdiZEGRH3NiVly7-ohw_QtrvlESEJ37blDkmC9Vo_kQW10rt048wFZiOAS3PSU43J8CrJAs4e10aWpTZfp2Ybc8Bh1-bTjx0Tq55DwLBriQXq6Mh79uDW-4/s837/PSX_20240107_093511.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlomHEEKyRNTjrbYX8-dHjAerPokiVI3OzVcrN-3k41cfOXvRwwcdpBT7cj-Y6htw_JQuDkdiZEGRH3NiVly7-ohw_QtrvlESEJ37blDkmC9Vo_kQW10rt048wFZiOAS3PSU43J8CrJAs4e10aWpTZfp2Ybc8Bh1-bTjx0Tq55DwLBriQXq6Mh79uDW-4/w640-h480/PSX_20240107_093511.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Beautiful snowy scenes captured on my morning walk! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU82QIsKXnllBZz7bse73t9buw3qvS2H7SBqHFtJ53IzjLpkvctvgz08qtTy1djeJnz98VkzSLR2R7QWtDE_7Go-yaiDxpbo52xeABymWZNrvZQHjU4xmKWhRsiR4kctgFK5MACfMExvYDyPFbZeMRYQ8mJ3yOG0sv5G1NQb8Gn2_vJiIZFA0VUXneCnh/s837/20240108_072904.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU82QIsKXnllBZz7bse73t9buw3qvS2H7SBqHFtJ53IzjLpkvctvgz08qtTy1djeJnz98VkzSLR2R7QWtDE_7Go-yaiDxpbo52xeABymWZNrvZQHjU4xmKWhRsiR4kctgFK5MACfMExvYDyPFbZeMRYQ8mJ3yOG0sv5G1NQb8Gn2_vJiIZFA0VUXneCnh/w640-h480/20240108_072904.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday, just before a winter storm arrived, the skies were ablaze with color! <br />Glorious skies to walk with! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmXxlDJDDcJvjsLGxzXWWWzdFPmv_jHi7jsrUusRaplwQO_URp0XVEJW5znjkjx0mShULX93sO5VlLo2gCfqBgWLByAz6omZ84T4hAohLf5PormBQF7Rk3apYw66nnw-E_3GTUUGN_NBavTAHltjWoMVxffS7pnu5-21qCS5XJxvhAzl3ebHeE6dC8YS9/s837/20240107_082308.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmXxlDJDDcJvjsLGxzXWWWzdFPmv_jHi7jsrUusRaplwQO_URp0XVEJW5znjkjx0mShULX93sO5VlLo2gCfqBgWLByAz6omZ84T4hAohLf5PormBQF7Rk3apYw66nnw-E_3GTUUGN_NBavTAHltjWoMVxffS7pnu5-21qCS5XJxvhAzl3ebHeE6dC8YS9/w640-h480/20240107_082308.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I'm treated to such beautiful views as I walk! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ORTiboJOoVXFvUryuEIDUMuPBXb1FCRye3fMi2ds1NcVmIG-T4w4mATiuE0X767Th_pDcigrNYWNb-bkk4YfoV2DcccLkurlmOnqNhM1C9e7o47BliYvXx4cxwMypSFzRRu3CL0iYM662zD-ss4anDZM8nHK4BJ6a_Pp9m7J_qgh7rjFSEFtk4s7pSSz/s628/26553.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ORTiboJOoVXFvUryuEIDUMuPBXb1FCRye3fMi2ds1NcVmIG-T4w4mATiuE0X767Th_pDcigrNYWNb-bkk4YfoV2DcccLkurlmOnqNhM1C9e7o47BliYvXx4cxwMypSFzRRu3CL0iYM662zD-ss4anDZM8nHK4BJ6a_Pp9m7J_qgh7rjFSEFtk4s7pSSz/w480-h640/26553.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I wanted to share this with you - I found this beautiful lantern on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/HN-HAIINAA-Christmas-Memorial-Ornaments/dp/B0CB5NH8HM?pd_rd_w=XCGr5&content-id=amzn1.sym.80b2efcb-1985-4e3a-b8e5-050c8b58b7cf&pf_rd_p=80b2efcb-1985-4e3a-b8e5-050c8b58b7cf&pf_rd_r=TEPGM6ART1GZQSFG549D&pd_rd_wg=IQ0ym&pd_rd_r=b828bed3-eb6e-4c58-8fe2-4a17c59f3fc5&pd_rd_i=B0CB5NH8HM&ref_=pd_bap_d_grid_rp_0_1_ec_ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_bia_item_i&th=1" target="_blank">Amazon,</a> and sent it to my Mom for Christmas. As many of you know, my Dad passed away in June, <br />in his rocking chair, on his front porch. He loved his rocking chair, and lanterns too. <br />Wasn't this a special way to honor his memory! I have also ordered one for myself. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHs0jQqTXxggEVWtmO5IUIrGp8mAG-KABGAWgrhyRZFJnmrXMsQf86e-VwAANlcFvhTAIoQcE-BAcFe_VwelLxxLAhBARvwPobcOMu9Kr9sYNePY1Ju9K_ROwRh0etNwm84yVykq1w322gdPBwQijxaDCSTZWXJUmTfRwqmViSHdn9uTGAuCbgjWjQLEP2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="261" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHs0jQqTXxggEVWtmO5IUIrGp8mAG-KABGAWgrhyRZFJnmrXMsQf86e-VwAANlcFvhTAIoQcE-BAcFe_VwelLxxLAhBARvwPobcOMu9Kr9sYNePY1Ju9K_ROwRh0etNwm84yVykq1w322gdPBwQijxaDCSTZWXJUmTfRwqmViSHdn9uTGAuCbgjWjQLEP2=w403-h640" width="403" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And NOW I want to introduce to you the author of this wonderful book! I met Jennifer Self through an online writing group that I am a part of. Jennifer kindly sent me a copy of her book to review! </span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This is my review: <br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Venture is a story of one family's determination in the face of many disappointments, financial obstacles, and turmoil. While this story tells how they overcame those obstacles, there is a greater lesson to be learned - and that is to depend on the Lord, pray and seek the Lord, and be willing to work hard with what He has given you. All members of Jennifer's family share their insights and experiences in the book, and it is a beautiful picture of a family working together to overcome hardship in the face of great adversity. It left me feeling very encouraged by the goodness of the Lord. Jennifer is an excellent writer, as are all her children, and husband. You will be blessed to read this book, and its message of hope will be a source of encouragement to you. </span></i></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is a little more information about Jennifer and the book she wrote: </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><span class="a-text-italic" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111;">Venture</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111;"> is the story of a father who went from losing his job to creating jobs in seven years, the family he chose as his team, and the God Who led them faithfully through it all.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />At 5:30 on that March morning, Jennifer wrote, </span><span class="a-text-italic" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111;">“When we look back over our life, we see only the peaks of the mountains. The valleys, then out of sight, were the pathways to the mountaintops.” </span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111;">Five hours later, all she and her family could see was the valley. Determined to reach the mountaintop again, they created an unlikely team and began the climb.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Their story gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a business while also building relationships. It shares how working together as a family has highs and lows and how they often occur in the space of 24 hours. Most of all, it shows the power of family teamwork and an abundantly good God.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />The Self family is living proof that nothing is certain except God’s faithfulness and the hope He gives. Loss taught them to hold on to hope when circumstances threatened to shake it from their grip.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Whatever personal venture readers may undertake, this story offers hope. The mountain top is just ahead.</span></i><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If you'd like to know more about Jennifer, you can visit her website here: </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://jenniferlself.com/" target="_blank">www.jenniferlself.com </a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Because I fell in love with the book and its message, I want to offer a copy of this book to one of my readers! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> If you will leave a comment below, you will be entered into the drawing, which will take place sometime next Monday, January 15. I will announce the winner here on this post, and also email the winner, as I will need your shipping address to ship the book to you from Amazon. </span><p></p></div></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Stay warm and dry my friends, and also - if you are looking for a good book to read during the cold winter months -<a href="https://www.mountaintopspice.com/s-projects-side-by-side" target="_blank"><b> I have some great recommendations on my website HERE</b> </a> Please visit and bless these authors who are personal friends of mine. I love to encourage authors who have just published and be a blessing to them, and their families. If you know of any other good authors who have published books, please also share in the comments. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sharing a couple of videos that I've shared recently on my YouTube channel... </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FE5A-CYdWI8" width="320" youtube-src-id="FE5A-CYdWI8"></iframe></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eqYf1d7TX9g" width="320" youtube-src-id="eqYf1d7TX9g"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Many blessings to all of you today! Please comment to join in on the giveaway :) </span></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-48532237098325283062023-12-30T14:41:00.000-08:002023-12-30T14:41:20.972-08:00Christmas Blessings and New Year Wishes! <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6YlZRxVItrxUHk7ZFJ8vmyvimNTnonIvVx4HdS_ldtrtvFk9Gwd9ryifY2nPgfokWpspV0Ao6prPjdUOxTuzpsdLj6zP-NdsRfcbQJQBzkb1Z3qcKUKizVtkDdAXzrjZ3hL54RfYKQIAv_CQZdksecLf86bSld1fAHWCZKtEdppl-SurIVnH4fGinr7o/s940/Soft%20Green%20Red%20Merry%20Christmas%20and%20Happy%20New%20Year%20Facebook%20Post.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6YlZRxVItrxUHk7ZFJ8vmyvimNTnonIvVx4HdS_ldtrtvFk9Gwd9ryifY2nPgfokWpspV0Ao6prPjdUOxTuzpsdLj6zP-NdsRfcbQJQBzkb1Z3qcKUKizVtkDdAXzrjZ3hL54RfYKQIAv_CQZdksecLf86bSld1fAHWCZKtEdppl-SurIVnH4fGinr7o/s320/Soft%20Green%20Red%20Merry%20Christmas%20and%20Happy%20New%20Year%20Facebook%20Post.png" width="320" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year blessings to each of you dear friends! This season has been a blur of activity for us - and I'm sure for you too. It seems the days slip by more and more quickly. Here we are with CHRISTmas come and gone for another season, and the New Year of 2024 upon us! It has been a busy but wonderful season of remembering our Lord, and the love He showed us by coming to save us 2000+ years ago! </span></p><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5y90zhTmzdQGXix2A0gn1RoI6s5GwmHyAEjnwQ-iIQjBRxhMgXLdpIgleWcAQh4L6Wm_GQoOLED1IZHOiT9dLjoMNmvGIN908It1haOMTcgZ2ZUyxaHTQfTawN-FcuIr4CgMfd67JfJL2H1-Xtwe7pqjde0o3MZqsfIvo_las7fKAOPeAUWjfoz3ZjxlQ/s837/20231215_160236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5y90zhTmzdQGXix2A0gn1RoI6s5GwmHyAEjnwQ-iIQjBRxhMgXLdpIgleWcAQh4L6Wm_GQoOLED1IZHOiT9dLjoMNmvGIN908It1haOMTcgZ2ZUyxaHTQfTawN-FcuIr4CgMfd67JfJL2H1-Xtwe7pqjde0o3MZqsfIvo_las7fKAOPeAUWjfoz3ZjxlQ/s320/20231215_160236.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We still don't have much snow - and if you know me, and how much I love snow - that I do wish for more, but I will be content with whatever the Lord sends us. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3S18NA3puJRLcUk-jBZArDHbUCSHlgtPccSZ4mzlRGxcDmypXQG-4zk9ljXdbY0LQvaL3kEefgtcQ0JQe0kqoln751gpAc2QYWQnaagOmWtltMPy985dQKh3oBQKK9QeP9WcZZmgo4_nOHUU2dTeiZycCCKFQBIEecicU9-Q8cPfZo-LH8nl0CklHulL/s628/20231216_133834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3S18NA3puJRLcUk-jBZArDHbUCSHlgtPccSZ4mzlRGxcDmypXQG-4zk9ljXdbY0LQvaL3kEefgtcQ0JQe0kqoln751gpAc2QYWQnaagOmWtltMPy985dQKh3oBQKK9QeP9WcZZmgo4_nOHUU2dTeiZycCCKFQBIEecicU9-Q8cPfZo-LH8nl0CklHulL/w480-h640/20231216_133834.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There is a little tea shoppe in town, and while my husband was doing some shopping, I was able to sit and enjoy a cup of tea. I ordered a scone - I had NO IDEA the scone was this big! It was scrumptious! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvuFcF0m9xD6nU901rSl9Wz1KmJ4YZXLgvWpoSom37RZFQ6Um7Md5OeL69OAIrarRi7W-eoQU7-ygzOBBPLY8azRFgeJnTfvUrVn3cYlwbgLBP-G-MtKsLEQY2ig3_0bp1gAPrHc-c84LinGrlnw9bzz7BePg6xdwl9soqnN6Vir-HBazXvsc2sPHUelgp/s628/20231220_113728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvuFcF0m9xD6nU901rSl9Wz1KmJ4YZXLgvWpoSom37RZFQ6Um7Md5OeL69OAIrarRi7W-eoQU7-ygzOBBPLY8azRFgeJnTfvUrVn3cYlwbgLBP-G-MtKsLEQY2ig3_0bp1gAPrHc-c84LinGrlnw9bzz7BePg6xdwl9soqnN6Vir-HBazXvsc2sPHUelgp/w480-h640/20231220_113728.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A neighbor called me a few days before Christmas and said she had purchased something for me. She was so excited. I was too when I opened the beautiful stone clock with the 10 commandments on it! She is Jewish, and not a believer in Christ. But she said when she saw this clock, it spoke to her that I was the person who lived this out. What a blessing! I can't even tell you what this clock means to me! By the way, this precious neighbor is 92 years old and still lives by herself, walks every day, drives over to the coast, and looks no older than her 70s. She is an amazing person who inspires everyone who knows her. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2dl7w6-er_SRneXy2-yVVddBaeFght_p9tRKjA7P7QZCvH5F1diaZNFPtL7J2o9ABCDWvcUULifH-oRky3gQozllEkGGS70qh5zouFoBH9CJlACIqVm0xNhge1NfInJqiuPHCAjLdsOr4KCMyfnjK_4ay-rDWs0fybqzQhqoWPeVXgYD5EPlYn0q21NJ/s837/20231220_120244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2dl7w6-er_SRneXy2-yVVddBaeFght_p9tRKjA7P7QZCvH5F1diaZNFPtL7J2o9ABCDWvcUULifH-oRky3gQozllEkGGS70qh5zouFoBH9CJlACIqVm0xNhge1NfInJqiuPHCAjLdsOr4KCMyfnjK_4ay-rDWs0fybqzQhqoWPeVXgYD5EPlYn0q21NJ/w640-h480/20231220_120244.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A closer view! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7hN7hbYreQUNYuJYzwwimLx-DIR7UMmF3PoIzSw_AFGKT5UlUpxKD-NPf0TMudkFuhwe0yeSA-ZWxgrbTjsHqiOtfc8pfKLtq6mTkZQJPn2l2ab3Bw_OQDQ0O8N4t5O_0XaAiYHp14jEQnsi9WSGRPhJXPsF1RvfBVbUBd_VW4DTvsfhYA8tYNAYQx9G/s837/20231222_172329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7hN7hbYreQUNYuJYzwwimLx-DIR7UMmF3PoIzSw_AFGKT5UlUpxKD-NPf0TMudkFuhwe0yeSA-ZWxgrbTjsHqiOtfc8pfKLtq6mTkZQJPn2l2ab3Bw_OQDQ0O8N4t5O_0XaAiYHp14jEQnsi9WSGRPhJXPsF1RvfBVbUBd_VW4DTvsfhYA8tYNAYQx9G/w640-h480/20231222_172329.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Another neighbor held a neighborly Christmas gathering. Several years ago, they moved into our neighborhood, and we have become close friends ever since. They bought a large parcel of land with only a barn and have been remodeling it into a home. Both she and her husband were commercial carpenters, and their son also is a carpenter. It is amazing what they have done with the home! They have incorporated the stalls into rooms, and it is truly incredible all the work they've done. They put in a heated floor - wow! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oKcee4IH6LhweupsBonuAXp6fVNtePy6hmgKNMJYuuFC1edif-NFyD27W3XUtGzEH5bKY2SXA_mnO5uUEZT5PSqfh_XfJ6RJV94cqXPEz8DiTL26hcC1ZBTycLehegKmRI_reGp8Y_g0pTJF8-SVhoRCkbpx27AzqQYHTeUYBuSQZLF-CAGYZ8b0Zt9z/s628/20231222_172334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oKcee4IH6LhweupsBonuAXp6fVNtePy6hmgKNMJYuuFC1edif-NFyD27W3XUtGzEH5bKY2SXA_mnO5uUEZT5PSqfh_XfJ6RJV94cqXPEz8DiTL26hcC1ZBTycLehegKmRI_reGp8Y_g0pTJF8-SVhoRCkbpx27AzqQYHTeUYBuSQZLF-CAGYZ8b0Zt9z/w480-h640/20231222_172334.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">They cut a large tree on their property to bring inside. Isn't it a beauty! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlbjIAZhtiQi1QC6DyBU_amr0Am4XjyRCI4jxrwxmL32F4sxeWKBj0rxiZDhL6yePUpMt9KwzATPauFabLTRQbQX1mHH0rtbtY3fi6eCTI6J3lCVumXKboHEP_aWieJxznJ2b4RDDUY5EnjTKVHAq8N9oh7xNwsGVMFvx7pIW-efKgkpK95QhBOMnRSBq/s837/20231222_173459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlbjIAZhtiQi1QC6DyBU_amr0Am4XjyRCI4jxrwxmL32F4sxeWKBj0rxiZDhL6yePUpMt9KwzATPauFabLTRQbQX1mHH0rtbtY3fi6eCTI6J3lCVumXKboHEP_aWieJxznJ2b4RDDUY5EnjTKVHAq8N9oh7xNwsGVMFvx7pIW-efKgkpK95QhBOMnRSBq/w640-h480/20231222_173459.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Riley enjoyed visiting with their puppy too. Lots of treats were involved :) <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qMdRGnetMmhSn7ZJHacFbOGARa-1LatRApZgUojYSWZ4T0_CQTiWrfA8ZpS1afvBXN0nm4Z3houzuDiMG3OeyCEeRmgLlRUlXQtoG0d-swKsNdUUHv9o2RPPVnxOnzh_vUqBsP_RjMK63b6XA7_Dm0zCsGhQ4fvbU1X3BVAUlhXrMI0ijEYXqKldU9hR/s837/20231224_083626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qMdRGnetMmhSn7ZJHacFbOGARa-1LatRApZgUojYSWZ4T0_CQTiWrfA8ZpS1afvBXN0nm4Z3houzuDiMG3OeyCEeRmgLlRUlXQtoG0d-swKsNdUUHv9o2RPPVnxOnzh_vUqBsP_RjMK63b6XA7_Dm0zCsGhQ4fvbU1X3BVAUlhXrMI0ijEYXqKldU9hR/w640-h480/20231224_083626.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Beautiful sunrises this December! I praise the Lord for each and every one! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK60h3n-ex-tRybfrkamJbXnywSLumzcccyey9VsI7r4Gs4cSM-AGlRLH05_ESWYle7bSLnW1fzh8SiPvTgXWQDyvD_YwzMMlVmaBWAD11eOSbW0b7CKk6xNWSaCa3jcz5mmb9Gju00ayU2H_dTMIeeeHeJu93fHOySN7bq_iUE8IaqHAxTMCY2sFHox0R/s837/20231224_085120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK60h3n-ex-tRybfrkamJbXnywSLumzcccyey9VsI7r4Gs4cSM-AGlRLH05_ESWYle7bSLnW1fzh8SiPvTgXWQDyvD_YwzMMlVmaBWAD11eOSbW0b7CKk6xNWSaCa3jcz5mmb9Gju00ayU2H_dTMIeeeHeJu93fHOySN7bq_iUE8IaqHAxTMCY2sFHox0R/w640-h480/20231224_085120.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Riley loves to stick her nose in the snow - I remember how Annie-girl, our husky German Shepherd used to do the same. It makes me miss Annie-girl so much! (She passed away unexpectedly in March of this year). <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_lK7369V4rQPOHYQfaJQzibmYB1q6dPykkfCMCADGh7vbRmJiluP6Pv_ZU8hMU3DA4C342p48Mz0lmdWU-WbtUuc33CYItTVoexCcrtg-GvWwWv8gubQppmQpaFQDoubtrtYRIfKZSRRj-APeaaD6eMD9vMabJSRlbG6wmtJ_h9b_0-xHAmXECxu3rxK/s735/20231224_123631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="735" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_lK7369V4rQPOHYQfaJQzibmYB1q6dPykkfCMCADGh7vbRmJiluP6Pv_ZU8hMU3DA4C342p48Mz0lmdWU-WbtUuc33CYItTVoexCcrtg-GvWwWv8gubQppmQpaFQDoubtrtYRIfKZSRRj-APeaaD6eMD9vMabJSRlbG6wmtJ_h9b_0-xHAmXECxu3rxK/w640-h546/20231224_123631.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On Christmas Eve, I was coming home from church, <br />and this beautiful moose ran across the road in front of me. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8v85X8Nr438THUaGY8TlU0hHpVBSW5cVKt3ZsSXjVBAQB-vdxpHTT0uGstHh_Y5fnebV3poYbRVq-Q60-fgAZznoKGY1Z4uJrDM_R-lKvBRBCtbI03k0I0KdW0UXrfENw3j6IUS8H2s0c24LHTSXDkc_BcxG0YDaA55bAk6qzMriWSrwUKDgqMbJqgQDR/s804/20231224_123637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="804" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8v85X8Nr438THUaGY8TlU0hHpVBSW5cVKt3ZsSXjVBAQB-vdxpHTT0uGstHh_Y5fnebV3poYbRVq-Q60-fgAZznoKGY1Z4uJrDM_R-lKvBRBCtbI03k0I0KdW0UXrfENw3j6IUS8H2s0c24LHTSXDkc_BcxG0YDaA55bAk6qzMriWSrwUKDgqMbJqgQDR/w640-h500/20231224_123637.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I turned around to get a picture - and she or he (not sure!) stopped to watch me, and pose so graciously for my phone camera. What a treat to see! <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6YlZRxVItrxUHk7ZFJ8vmyvimNTnonIvVx4HdS_ldtrtvFk9Gwd9ryifY2nPgfokWpspV0Ao6prPjdUOxTuzpsdLj6zP-NdsRfcbQJQBzkb1Z3qcKUKizVtkDdAXzrjZ3hL54RfYKQIAv_CQZdksecLf86bSld1fAHWCZKtEdppl-SurIVnH4fGinr7o/s940/Soft%20Green%20Red%20Merry%20Christmas%20and%20Happy%20New%20Year%20Facebook%20Post.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6YlZRxVItrxUHk7ZFJ8vmyvimNTnonIvVx4HdS_ldtrtvFk9Gwd9ryifY2nPgfokWpspV0Ao6prPjdUOxTuzpsdLj6zP-NdsRfcbQJQBzkb1Z3qcKUKizVtkDdAXzrjZ3hL54RfYKQIAv_CQZdksecLf86bSld1fAHWCZKtEdppl-SurIVnH4fGinr7o/w640-h536/Soft%20Green%20Red%20Merry%20Christmas%20and%20Happy%20New%20Year%20Facebook%20Post.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It was a wonderful experience! I think she (or he) posed beautifully for this greeting! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrekUTNXB4fKrXEM25Ycd3MoUP4zW1yUX8ggKMq-mx9UgAWgOVo3P3MepqmcUOldvg8AwFhYYen35Qcf1B0ZEtDTDFhKR5QSjy-EgChBnsB0Be-KoM_pF2Yg8angZWwJNw8PvStiAa9eLqd8ny43wOBw8fyvom0bYRtyfZR8WgL5zKlHknrxtJI6AFa46/s837/20231225_073932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrekUTNXB4fKrXEM25Ycd3MoUP4zW1yUX8ggKMq-mx9UgAWgOVo3P3MepqmcUOldvg8AwFhYYen35Qcf1B0ZEtDTDFhKR5QSjy-EgChBnsB0Be-KoM_pF2Yg8angZWwJNw8PvStiAa9eLqd8ny43wOBw8fyvom0bYRtyfZR8WgL5zKlHknrxtJI6AFa46/w640-h480/20231225_073932.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dan, Riley, and I walked Christmas morning together as this sunrise unfolded before us! My heart was so grateful for this beautiful start to the day of celebrating the birth of Jesus. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiJOa3AonQ_MWH3Rfe8nwf2ZGYPL0wk_cRo-nCiu_QyPI-EhM4RhaXIm-ppxCMj9QDG8PX_KtHC1Tm9dozSrcGpJHuXm_hQCbjOFDkhF4FdP83ShdrkyxaFjFVamgiIzw5xlwL0A1_G7XsZBaz297wqZRo79uslxfNHKlrrb0DmA3dXsJPBamWxsTPkDg/s837/20231225_103637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiJOa3AonQ_MWH3Rfe8nwf2ZGYPL0wk_cRo-nCiu_QyPI-EhM4RhaXIm-ppxCMj9QDG8PX_KtHC1Tm9dozSrcGpJHuXm_hQCbjOFDkhF4FdP83ShdrkyxaFjFVamgiIzw5xlwL0A1_G7XsZBaz297wqZRo79uslxfNHKlrrb0DmA3dXsJPBamWxsTPkDg/w640-h480/20231225_103637.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I came home from our walk, got the turkey in the oven, and made a breakfast casserole. The kids came over and we ate breakfast together. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUj4olefxq0sU3MAt_U4uiox8IMf9UKVCnu0eiPbEiSrXqyYtC3XkkCahNgbDO6VbEAHfwIFX3Fzp7_WFkU5nWqrcOPSiR05YWmkdN8DkUNBvJHQq44D7lmjMzXc5Jgwk6udNIIDWqb04njprA5F0vkKgELZWyZgc7jpBUZvbwqOKWVYTLXRSdRS0Qz14K/s837/20231225_103847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUj4olefxq0sU3MAt_U4uiox8IMf9UKVCnu0eiPbEiSrXqyYtC3XkkCahNgbDO6VbEAHfwIFX3Fzp7_WFkU5nWqrcOPSiR05YWmkdN8DkUNBvJHQq44D7lmjMzXc5Jgwk6udNIIDWqb04njprA5F0vkKgELZWyZgc7jpBUZvbwqOKWVYTLXRSdRS0Qz14K/w640-h480/20231225_103847.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I had the table set with Mom Moseley's china <br />that she gave to me several years ago. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QG9b1VPLbD1Q5szvGDHBPP-NfrgaUgdZB2rxX9j25_KlfDUyCNKLVYL8z1_prgyTEHQ2RVDEs7g9Mqk0SSUPvp6y9FrqGZ8tYiJuV0hluFp6VTzd6n0NVDeIsZxpYXz3EKPeuncvGL1ZprGeLicD3-o6wPcmJgGcUfwWcOcar_Y0Om9-l2bHSOESz0d1/s837/20231225_110536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QG9b1VPLbD1Q5szvGDHBPP-NfrgaUgdZB2rxX9j25_KlfDUyCNKLVYL8z1_prgyTEHQ2RVDEs7g9Mqk0SSUPvp6y9FrqGZ8tYiJuV0hluFp6VTzd6n0NVDeIsZxpYXz3EKPeuncvGL1ZprGeLicD3-o6wPcmJgGcUfwWcOcar_Y0Om9-l2bHSOESz0d1/w640-h480/20231225_110536.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Ryan read the Christmas story to us, and then we prayed together <br />before beginning our gift-giving. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrNxUJnaHfNACyB0oxUnoglUKg_RLPFpLFgrKFZ3JAfYWQQa1w2rhn8uHJiWRhPPJY_w6AxVx2Y2hpU3xvtWo74P3g-VVj5A2K9UisNAcMKz57ZCAruoTj_d7HVtqjm05IvIkeSf0K2ibRZ4ilOCbxOzsWREOQhc0Pdz3Y1EaFFP2qTjK4mJQeN37Z-Lh/s837/20231225_112528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrNxUJnaHfNACyB0oxUnoglUKg_RLPFpLFgrKFZ3JAfYWQQa1w2rhn8uHJiWRhPPJY_w6AxVx2Y2hpU3xvtWo74P3g-VVj5A2K9UisNAcMKz57ZCAruoTj_d7HVtqjm05IvIkeSf0K2ibRZ4ilOCbxOzsWREOQhc0Pdz3Y1EaFFP2qTjK4mJQeN37Z-Lh/w640-h480/20231225_112528.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My Mom had been very busy sewing and worked so hard to make 18 pillows for every child and grandchild out of one of Dad's shirts. Each shirt had pictures of Dad wearing the shirt, a pen, a comb, a hankie, and a pin from Dad's collection (flags, etc.) What an incredible gift this was! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOynqdZtrh4FamX8qbfq7nnY0tyJCxNmOs3eKV7OnBCLsPooKh5FIEZCTYFDd4rGFyGdzWL-lQXtvBt4xeUXLnq7m_AcZkNeL2jcWrqez1qfFwTtkVM-Opf6I_bxWgiFak6kQR05RRPyC_aj5vPEoXrl325fVL838xCUKkhSGevZpPuuRZQ167KY701hFJ/s837/20231225_112603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOynqdZtrh4FamX8qbfq7nnY0tyJCxNmOs3eKV7OnBCLsPooKh5FIEZCTYFDd4rGFyGdzWL-lQXtvBt4xeUXLnq7m_AcZkNeL2jcWrqez1qfFwTtkVM-Opf6I_bxWgiFak6kQR05RRPyC_aj5vPEoXrl325fVL838xCUKkhSGevZpPuuRZQ167KY701hFJ/w640-h480/20231225_112603.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Ryan and Alanna with the pillow Mom had made for them - <br />Ryan and Dad shared a love for classic cars. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdhaScIjIRbwxIrOMnl4dIsm4ooc3nTabaxZgXiUdUmh7_nTpebPBibwiBo-mdnHjOkrAQADzgoMzh7zGXq8sxlJedrr4DDphJ2XA7e1HdzNACfq8c5l-dpmWclJUhDgFDWDBMd1NW6jR1t2Ouc5o3YGdI2XYHiJgtPFvb0vMa_dUV-Gwa67EfcYVUbga/s960/26361.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="639" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdhaScIjIRbwxIrOMnl4dIsm4ooc3nTabaxZgXiUdUmh7_nTpebPBibwiBo-mdnHjOkrAQADzgoMzh7zGXq8sxlJedrr4DDphJ2XA7e1HdzNACfq8c5l-dpmWclJUhDgFDWDBMd1NW6jR1t2Ouc5o3YGdI2XYHiJgtPFvb0vMa_dUV-Gwa67EfcYVUbga/w426-h640/26361.jpeg" width="426" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My sister put together this collage of each one of the family members with the pillow Mom made for them, and then she wrote a poem to go with it. Isn't that the most special gift! We were so touched by Mom's effort to ease our sorrow this Christmas season with missing Dad! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ue8YOf_mDfADy2kOsMJuSoSBCUhnT3ngCb1JgZ6oJUrZXWkNFnibQc_DTYepTEzzKYYxYJvkExo-gAAqZqdRzAnfhddvnd4rJEYHHQSJsme0B888wBb0jPKvgxK7ucI6mbqfrnR68R3hzRzXhLlG-CydMg3ZIVLvX3JgyOtp5BaxXRwCSJVgFAbGb07P/s837/20231225_135213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ue8YOf_mDfADy2kOsMJuSoSBCUhnT3ngCb1JgZ6oJUrZXWkNFnibQc_DTYepTEzzKYYxYJvkExo-gAAqZqdRzAnfhddvnd4rJEYHHQSJsme0B888wBb0jPKvgxK7ucI6mbqfrnR68R3hzRzXhLlG-CydMg3ZIVLvX3JgyOtp5BaxXRwCSJVgFAbGb07P/w640-h480/20231225_135213.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Danielle and Zak brought over their adorable corgi, Mr. Cerberus. This was a rare moment for him, he was spent from all the excitement! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6l-BUOps1phnYdJ2rBGKwWXd8Tr2h93FgJLj7p28lQiYuExkcvPJ5bzgs2IMNXFkN0WpiNe3ezTgO_F0CHW9j99RRKUcyc3BePObEzNbE4Vm3Z-RG51UtbkiFFASZydt6edxa6k2GIQsEmzLGwVFx0DMy-t29wCKyXc9Wu-8bIgn_qgbIioEQvN-N-p4/s837/20231225_143454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6l-BUOps1phnYdJ2rBGKwWXd8Tr2h93FgJLj7p28lQiYuExkcvPJ5bzgs2IMNXFkN0WpiNe3ezTgO_F0CHW9j99RRKUcyc3BePObEzNbE4Vm3Z-RG51UtbkiFFASZydt6edxa6k2GIQsEmzLGwVFx0DMy-t29wCKyXc9Wu-8bIgn_qgbIioEQvN-N-p4/w640-h480/20231225_143454.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Enjoying the CHRISTmas meal together - how blessed we are to have Christ living in each of our hearts - even though He was born 2000+ years ago, He still lives today in our hearts, and how I rejoice that our family can gather to celebrate the joy JESUS has brought into our lives! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D1kq7hGIAHI" width="320" youtube-src-id="D1kq7hGIAHI"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UgDpyHGNzfQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="UgDpyHGNzfQ"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I created two Christmas instrumental videos that you can just put on, and play in the background as we finish out the Christmas season and ponder the coming New Year. I hope they will be a blessing for you to enjoy :) </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQPiYcHy-86cXo_vb6LImBh52IB6vuC4akYbkLZPf00VW49dkBAxoDgxzUyup-y1WKYixMjqEjkN7Gjrk72SddgYSB8k9dsRa6Vsb45gCFrx92bl1PE7_sGwWEYxZKSJJPqvy8xeqJCaVxOGqt_9_NiggVAJgrv539VNL8iyZ6rXouPD1mC5-VGRcjSedE/s1920/867863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1920" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQPiYcHy-86cXo_vb6LImBh52IB6vuC4akYbkLZPf00VW49dkBAxoDgxzUyup-y1WKYixMjqEjkN7Gjrk72SddgYSB8k9dsRa6Vsb45gCFrx92bl1PE7_sGwWEYxZKSJJPqvy8xeqJCaVxOGqt_9_NiggVAJgrv539VNL8iyZ6rXouPD1mC5-VGRcjSedE/w640-h400/867863.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And though the actual day of CHRISTmas has come and gone - the day that was chosen to celebrate His birth - let us keep the celebration, wonder and joy alive in our hearts through the coming days and into the New Year. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May the wonder of His gracious gift to us be with you in the days ahead! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Many blessings to each of you! </span></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-75277897158444416022023-12-17T18:07:00.000-08:002023-12-17T18:07:12.781-08:00God's Christmas Lights in the Skies!<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>December - that
month of short days and longer nights</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Dark clouds of gray
overshadow the sun's light<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>This time of year can be
full of drear<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>But at dawn and dusk God's
paintbrush brings cheer!</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshy847_8TplE1P3TvkhlkbB_DRJTDZgVDAYiQGlJUo38vcvCYkpBru8w90iQF61NIad7sAORGxCGCQq_2Iwg44KFDY6S0Mnybay6YlWM_GLHE4CFMQYBU1kkOu_KGADM5Pe4GaP726WvjKvMghV_25GsPf51Ii1WEwY6JelSvj86m2TS-OPNTsvI2jjD8/s837/PSX_20231214_134620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshy847_8TplE1P3TvkhlkbB_DRJTDZgVDAYiQGlJUo38vcvCYkpBru8w90iQF61NIad7sAORGxCGCQq_2Iwg44KFDY6S0Mnybay6YlWM_GLHE4CFMQYBU1kkOu_KGADM5Pe4GaP726WvjKvMghV_25GsPf51Ii1WEwY6JelSvj86m2TS-OPNTsvI2jjD8/w640-h480/PSX_20231214_134620.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Filling the skies with rosy purpled form<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Its lights wave and dance, streaming in song<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Dappled in colors, oh the feast for my eyes<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>God's Christmas Lights - rejoicing in the skies! </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i> ~ Marilyn Moseley ~</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>December 17, 2023 </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjti_og9mL_SW6W30uaQeBTyPqBATykyaLcDX4Z4ve047SRAh3hRie9_Q4Y6aV3pabHm8IQQNd8evVnpQU1YnQ0ZjdTk2oBQ_hoOHd0Prif_zH7JK0UGzwFN6rGTWfXRVgSc6uZ56NXbwLP9cAU_xnkbMfgupysTeyqx__LNa8aPkNhjXCzdk4Ly-k5XfJ2/s837/PSX_20231214_134512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjti_og9mL_SW6W30uaQeBTyPqBATykyaLcDX4Z4ve047SRAh3hRie9_Q4Y6aV3pabHm8IQQNd8evVnpQU1YnQ0ZjdTk2oBQ_hoOHd0Prif_zH7JK0UGzwFN6rGTWfXRVgSc6uZ56NXbwLP9cAU_xnkbMfgupysTeyqx__LNa8aPkNhjXCzdk4Ly-k5XfJ2/w640-h480/PSX_20231214_134512.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh the dreary days we have had - lots of fog, and low lying clouds. But then - this past week, the early morning skies filled with such brilliant color - my heart was overwhelmed! </td></tr></tbody></table></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9F0QzPMxMLXQaRnQWHHyNyBTv4cqrqkjtqvDbm1_hhENoqrlJ1zsRKy7wpJmjYFGxusARtW2SjxxOALkMqCkBkyE1SBBETgp6cse77q9VM5dS3PiSneC66-dK274k17o2t7_f-dVjEaOfA1rWJyPP2gyURWS91tA-Whzl62Nvhl1jh-y-4Th-PEllaeKj/s837/PSX_20231214_134547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9F0QzPMxMLXQaRnQWHHyNyBTv4cqrqkjtqvDbm1_hhENoqrlJ1zsRKy7wpJmjYFGxusARtW2SjxxOALkMqCkBkyE1SBBETgp6cse77q9VM5dS3PiSneC66-dK274k17o2t7_f-dVjEaOfA1rWJyPP2gyURWS91tA-Whzl62Nvhl1jh-y-4Th-PEllaeKj/w640-h480/PSX_20231214_134547.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I rise early - usually about 5 to 5:30 each morning. It's my time to spend in prayer with the Lord, and to drink my black coffee, and get my heart ready for the day. The chickens wait patiently for me to come and feed them. The skies that morning began to shine with an unusual brilliance as I walked to the chicken coop at about 7 a.m. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNogSxznp4LIAIi1SluAzavM0joaJdpWGIKuVpRtBN5TKJMPCC0rABRxk2AerfkNHKFMKpZH_XUH53QbJQ6uQQDctl9KEkoG2HtPv51GckeS5K9iFIbrwvs1o9mjeAX6_S8GOHM9WhW-cXcdh_O9K73CS5fTeB6n0pjvMKDB1Vy78OmhTIaHmdMrkVj8CL/s837/20231214_065652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNogSxznp4LIAIi1SluAzavM0joaJdpWGIKuVpRtBN5TKJMPCC0rABRxk2AerfkNHKFMKpZH_XUH53QbJQ6uQQDctl9KEkoG2HtPv51GckeS5K9iFIbrwvs1o9mjeAX6_S8GOHM9WhW-cXcdh_O9K73CS5fTeB6n0pjvMKDB1Vy78OmhTIaHmdMrkVj8CL/w640-h480/20231214_065652.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">To the east, the skies began to fill with a radiant orange streaming warmth. I hurried with my chicken chores so that Riley and I could leave for our walk. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI65TEPyfhMmISEHm7CEuyIEcSO-F2gce5rkdv4rIn9QabPORUIqrGvtk6_H4nGXa0NWkHRDgxoqQpLh0wjYKR55Av0cuebEpZjQppaQj1dc8gFBm9cQ-suyqc_bD17_MLUX90IS7AdqHpM-aARFomjIqpatVHkwHjkPxlwteIaMXhfnawBEQAriS11ggm/s837/PSX_20231214_134358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI65TEPyfhMmISEHm7CEuyIEcSO-F2gce5rkdv4rIn9QabPORUIqrGvtk6_H4nGXa0NWkHRDgxoqQpLh0wjYKR55Av0cuebEpZjQppaQj1dc8gFBm9cQ-suyqc_bD17_MLUX90IS7AdqHpM-aARFomjIqpatVHkwHjkPxlwteIaMXhfnawBEQAriS11ggm/w640-h480/PSX_20231214_134358.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glory in the skies! <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6gmhj6SIcA2Cccj57h4UXAFDB5ymb4pXBZ_7Z4AKRc_VO36y2pS90D08oCMzby0_3RjjQlAmXig_S6mqjdR0qhdy0oPQc6qKmhuwKsiBZzjmwqUY0nyEiYyV-etZoxn2vhXfwLHG7gnr61oQEUqS7S_-Jhe3MAZBrLsdu_IAHn0JpqycdLjtg26sNNz2/s837/20231214_073219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR6gmhj6SIcA2Cccj57h4UXAFDB5ymb4pXBZ_7Z4AKRc_VO36y2pS90D08oCMzby0_3RjjQlAmXig_S6mqjdR0qhdy0oPQc6qKmhuwKsiBZzjmwqUY0nyEiYyV-etZoxn2vhXfwLHG7gnr61oQEUqS7S_-Jhe3MAZBrLsdu_IAHn0JpqycdLjtg26sNNz2/w640-h480/20231214_073219.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfN0vz43njL-nSPbPhDeD8M64hbJS93dJ6SQHQLb23Iz0LXzEqz4_iRNgdvwsQsUcggxzzvn8V5qf-SjwZw-orFIOdu4fx8kAj0TKszqtqA1U-x_l9pznJ9QTmtlJksYcpsj3NSLyxtzADt2Nt-67P7VwqGw__5IDKjKWgpn7YBr2Rc_khphVjxsrS2sf/s837/20231214_072328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfN0vz43njL-nSPbPhDeD8M64hbJS93dJ6SQHQLb23Iz0LXzEqz4_iRNgdvwsQsUcggxzzvn8V5qf-SjwZw-orFIOdu4fx8kAj0TKszqtqA1U-x_l9pznJ9QTmtlJksYcpsj3NSLyxtzADt2Nt-67P7VwqGw__5IDKjKWgpn7YBr2Rc_khphVjxsrS2sf/w640-h480/20231214_072328.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmOKR68Quf0MoCTftQRAyQtnvY-Ir4rdDPZpH2iD9zrHxQy8uD7cOshrHQ_lOy7LeTm9vYYAabPmU3Eni1H1_PcMGqHQB-bz341okC7ll9Wjq5SOBktB1C567lLFe3JARJRIwkPrA644XOWaP1yHcNPzqwZlX2Uf5Q4VxpeB3qRzsknJGWXH7nWAM5Dw_/s837/PSX_20231212_203154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmOKR68Quf0MoCTftQRAyQtnvY-Ir4rdDPZpH2iD9zrHxQy8uD7cOshrHQ_lOy7LeTm9vYYAabPmU3Eni1H1_PcMGqHQB-bz341okC7ll9Wjq5SOBktB1C567lLFe3JARJRIwkPrA644XOWaP1yHcNPzqwZlX2Uf5Q4VxpeB3qRzsknJGWXH7nWAM5Dw_/w640-h480/PSX_20231212_203154.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Another sunset this past week... leaving glorious reflections off the hood of my truck. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigS8N45-duX4tfZzGEkpvgX82lVm4Dw3gK2vmpCeAw3ksY3n0x-KYmxCjfh3OsdvUbBuvV4gOZcdk-o8ZO3-8JGOfvtYRyleUIr07x0hJqU9iXzaKSlcFzVlDBBl9iBlOcMXhCEmgsTAoyUYnCUuNwIld8fbxD5n__LN8bV09DG_TUULywHKGaCikVhLjD/s837/20231214_111236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigS8N45-duX4tfZzGEkpvgX82lVm4Dw3gK2vmpCeAw3ksY3n0x-KYmxCjfh3OsdvUbBuvV4gOZcdk-o8ZO3-8JGOfvtYRyleUIr07x0hJqU9iXzaKSlcFzVlDBBl9iBlOcMXhCEmgsTAoyUYnCUuNwIld8fbxD5n__LN8bV09DG_TUULywHKGaCikVhLjD/w640-h480/20231214_111236.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This past week was quite busy with all the Christmas parties that were happening! It is so wonderful to be able to fellowship with like-minded believers! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2_wROcNW1c9MO-6JdCr66GUZJeQhnz-pYrI7_vrWnJl1gk1EImbozsA0-q-rTf5gVbkOkO0kANuTkJaHPTcdeTvlorywBBwR-_rOuSs51nSWCellbnQVDWP9gssExYb1EIqSnJTw5Q8uWqE3rlqem9q0ncdqlHhhwV0uL9r-wjkNT9dWZIQ-vdMUPe7V/s837/20231206_143117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2_wROcNW1c9MO-6JdCr66GUZJeQhnz-pYrI7_vrWnJl1gk1EImbozsA0-q-rTf5gVbkOkO0kANuTkJaHPTcdeTvlorywBBwR-_rOuSs51nSWCellbnQVDWP9gssExYb1EIqSnJTw5Q8uWqE3rlqem9q0ncdqlHhhwV0uL9r-wjkNT9dWZIQ-vdMUPe7V/w640-h480/20231206_143117.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Another keto sheet pan meal that we loved - full of Christmas colors too! Sausage and vegetable bake. No potatoes! Just sausage, and various veggies (red pepper, jalapeno, zucchini, cauliflower, and butternut squash). </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In this last week before Christmas, my preparations are few. Thankfully most of the little bit of shopping that we do has been done. Our children will be joining us on Christmas Day, and we look forward to that very much. This entire holiday season has been bittersweet for me - I miss my Gram, my Dad, and Mom Moseley. The loss of their presence aches within our souls. So we are incorporating that grief into our days, and are accepting of it. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I found a little cardinal birdhouse that sings Merry Christmas whenever anyone walks by. My Gram and Dad loved birds especially the cardinals that regularly visited them. So this Christmas, I have a little reminder of them in my holiday decor - which isn't much, since we live in such a tiny space. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FT6YuwwcPjY" width="320" youtube-src-id="FT6YuwwcPjY"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I'll leave you today with the newest music video I've created from one of my favorite Christmas songs, Mary, Did You Know. I hope it is a blessing to you, and that you will recognize some of the beautiful images that I've shared with you today. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice! <br />Jesus is alive today<br />God's artistry in the skies<br />A message of His love displayed<br />And the presence of Jesus <br />born 2000 years ago we celebrate<br />Alive within our hearts always! </i><br />~ MM ~</span></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Many blessings to all of you! </span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p></div></div>
</div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-57560697175862431972023-12-08T15:43:00.000-08:002023-12-10T13:36:42.689-08:00Through Love's Eyes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: large;">I don't often share about my own personal writing journey, but many of you readers do know that I have written a book - <a href="http://www.mountaintopspice.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Through Love's Eyes.</span></a> Because it is that time of year when people are looking to buy gifts for those they love, I wanted to share a few new things with you that may be a blessing to you in your search for a special way to bless your loved one this Christmas season! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3P1SbKXbZb50kVbkNsHT356htWgvr4mdp033MmISZZ6n-BvIVZPyQNa8RAZ-1-_sshPmeXF5VMEa5F3D7Lga2P-3lU2TGYDUhlk6oJtxDvTzLcirXc4EwpMSNT9hzLDlY4uqGGRtiCBiA_-yOz5GcNIk_D7RVKI38hAHGRFuXH_YRF_ys1e1axZQL0p4/s2888/20200818_142951.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2768" data-original-width="2888" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3P1SbKXbZb50kVbkNsHT356htWgvr4mdp033MmISZZ6n-BvIVZPyQNa8RAZ-1-_sshPmeXF5VMEa5F3D7Lga2P-3lU2TGYDUhlk6oJtxDvTzLcirXc4EwpMSNT9hzLDlY4uqGGRtiCBiA_-yOz5GcNIk_D7RVKI38hAHGRFuXH_YRF_ys1e1axZQL0p4/s320/20200818_142951.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I wrote "Through Love's Eyes" back in 2019, and saw it published in April 2020 - just as the pandemic spread through the world. It was a difficult season to market the book, but the Lord has blessed me with many local markets in our area being so kind as to sell my book. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a short video that I've made that you can share with your friends and loved ones who perhaps are looking for a gift for someone who "has it all". It would be a blessing if you could share this video - like my channel - and let others know about this book that shares the Lord's love story written throughout creation for our hearts to be encouraged. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uJ7musJDFOY" width="320" youtube-src-id="uJ7musJDFOY"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I have a new and revamped website <a href="http://www.mountaintopspice.com" target="_blank"><b>MountainTopSpice.com</b></a> that I would love for you to visit and look around. Many of my photographs are there to see, as well as links to all the different platforms that I use to encourage others to walk with the Lord and share the beauty of the Lord's creation. I have a<b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXgynI6UxiYt-iXfX6obTKA" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Youtube channel</span></a></b> where I produce music videos using my photographs making worship videos to glorify the Lord through the beauty of his creation. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.mountaintopspice.com" target="_blank">MountainTopSpice.com</a> <span> </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span><br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span> </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXgynI6UxiYt-iXfX6obTKA" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Youtube channel</span></a></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">I have also started a new writing adventure - where I am writing in Kindle Vella. It is a platform within Kindle where authors can share their books in chapter form, as they write them, and then the book can be published. It allows for input from the reader, and helps the author with insight from readers on the story as they write. </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>If you'd like to visit my Kindle Vella book, it is called "Adventures in Homesteading" where I share bits and pieces of our life here in North Idaho. You can find the link to that story here. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0CLKW84T8" target="_blank">ADVENTURES IN HOMESTEADING</a></b></span></h4><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0CFWRL9DD" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvin8hKvM3aj67CtSu3ZM_CA4f-zordDUDue92aM7-rqiwHpvVmP3cXPmKZblU4rNK0n0umniwdMampzUh2jYg9JYCHK0JjZB8QzD7PnynHgaSFuVS4E3tJWRu0uxalnEgANnu9hUaHtxtGZflshFS43n2k-TivDLu00JHZKkaHLi0zO5b8DC31o5yCzI/s320/1.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Please let me know in the comments if you are familiar with this platform, and if following an author in this way would be of interest to you :) </b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">I have several friends who have also written books that have been published, and I want to share their website addresses here - so that if you are looking to be a double blessing with your gifting - this is how you can do it! By blessing your loved one with a book that a fellow believer has written, you are blessing both the writer and the one who receives it. I love to be able to do this - and shop locally every year - because I would rather my hard-earned $$ go towards blessing both the person I buy from and the person who receives it. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">If you have a book or a website that offers something you've crafted homemade - please message me, and I will include your link here for the readers to browse through. </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>ELAYNE HUDSON - </b>My sister has started her own business making men's ties! If you have a man in your life who needs to wear ties, you need to check out her website here: <a href="https://www.realmenztiez.com/" target="_blank"><b>Real Menz Tiez</b></a><b> </b> She makes these ties herself! They are color-coordinated, and different from any other ties out there. Very high-quality, handmade ties - you definitely will love them!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJmuwr_nuq5ZWM33t1WMCqwWDv5IKc054E_npdGNbINIfyCIOze_-caQDZC8sDYovlGseEJ8lltBGV-7jT-IvGp9dGxrqwXSs9vcCl6EkdO8eKiZw1j9GthJGuTlXwStuI8SZzAXGpDUqDfkjkmzOpxiqd-jF-UMEtL6OcrhmOOeGxKQA6oefvkkqU9psJ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="2400" height="94" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJmuwr_nuq5ZWM33t1WMCqwWDv5IKc054E_npdGNbINIfyCIOze_-caQDZC8sDYovlGseEJ8lltBGV-7jT-IvGp9dGxrqwXSs9vcCl6EkdO8eKiZw1j9GthJGuTlXwStuI8SZzAXGpDUqDfkjkmzOpxiqd-jF-UMEtL6OcrhmOOeGxKQA6oefvkkqU9psJ" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHERYL SMITH</b>: A dear friend and fellow blogger has two platforms, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@mountainhopeband" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>YouTube</b></span></a> and her<b> </b><a href="https://www.homespundevotions.com/" target="_blank"><b>blog Homespun Devotions</b>,</a> where you can see all the books that she has written. Now she has a YouTube page where she shares her music - and it is full of beautiful music! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.homespundevotions.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAjJS1VGXk5rvy3AonOdGuUTAN-t4NZPfWrI0-h76oi0ErlrNqfWokyEJF41L0mZj-jXV6tT9dNb-CLHKRU0Ob1EzkILSfdTalbfi_E_NluC-IuG7ndgMGNj4F9L3WrOZeXPZNl_HGAwzsdtr6k3Tw5DXAChZLJ3MwF2M8EzlfCw5qeSHzW0AbUpxJpZ-u" width="160" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>PHILLIP JAMES </b>- I lead a local writing group, and several of our members have published their books this year. I am so happy for them! If you'd like to support a first-time author, this would be a great book to read. An incredible story unfolds of a young boy who thinks he has only one sibling to finding out that he has family and siblings all over the country - it is a fascinating read, and he shares how Christ transformed his life through it all. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tumbling-Tumbleweed-Phillip-James/dp/B0CDNKPQVP" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>TUMBLING TUMBLEWEED</b></span></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tumbling-Tumbleweed-Phillip-James/dp/B0CDNKPQVP" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQx4i3W6glRgjQ2BOgBbwhKQXWJ50PV_k0FAjdVSYSslEo9aABaYgO6Evq4B7c-fdKjfLf7FY_q0UD6qRtCUlK4Xj2qKZjbTHS0bFRmoKyLRr9BY8WK0qit1cNNo8j0tVhU0L8UCUB4yTbOEcq1H5431UUEJyzflS8Fikh2tqzgUuqsCAZexC3P0Z_53QQ" width="160" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MEGAN DALEY</b> - Again, a member of my local writing group, and she has written several books that are not truly Christian in nature, but are written in the Christian genre. You can find her books here <b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="http://www.megan-daley.com" target="_blank">MEGAN- DALEY.COM</a></span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/When-Angels-Collide-Differences-Between-ebook/dp/B0BXFRL2RN/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="943" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbP-8_0GC1HIrHqMOsIpShkSBtlLHbmcTdHnshjlPsAoepYkdrxt0eN4VplDC0DX9sI5upDvvTBdCJfDNudtzL1sCsIfrSyuikC3h8bz9lxoNNKXVAxcHuaAOrC-gqMgIL9INAuuLed08Nq_jR10ByWWL4lAjBayxip12iYaYIC-gitLpIhKwsWRcEFSpa" width="151" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MARTHA JANE ORLANDO - </b>Martha Jane is a precious author and blogging friend who I've gotten to know through the years of blogging. She has written some wonderful children's fiction called The Glade series. You can find<a href="https://gladetrilogy.wixsite.com/theglade" target="_blank"> <b>more of her writings here</b></a>. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tryst-Terror-Glade-Series-ebook/dp/B00AKKGU4K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1355358956&sr=1-1&keywords=martha+jane+orlando" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="920" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh_oHXk9e7MKNqI-UQk-xTjs3TqrHTFGOhv7AD0Cx8Gko_AB6w_ai_bgIAt193HWR8Yh9o17K6asNigrkUo8FgVacPZitlOdGi1Sv2ua6lVdh5HL37IzdSlDFT3372ywp9OdY3-odDCRosjf4_-amhNdcv8gykGxL9EM3Nuc3_yb793I5iOuk9GfB11jNqR" width="147" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MRS. SHARON WHITE - </b> Mrs. Sharon White is a fellow blogger, and author, and now has her own YouTube channel! You will love her writing with practical advice for mothers and wives as homemakers. You can find her books here: <b> <a href="https://thelegacyofhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Legacy of Home</a></b></span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Homemaking-Happiness-Wonderful-Days-Home/dp/0578918633/ref=sr_1_7?qid=1702125517&refinements=p_27%3AMrs.+Sharon+White&s=books&sr=1-7" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="333" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjr7gWxgKNbBbjOIG_d8dd6cPJ98Qe_4sZcPfB26oay04HFLbgPjkMKu82LlutsqsjyBqc3OnCZJNq1KxcWhOHDX9YpaWvpfky3DoAyu1sV8hClm0adlo-BGpgp9hkLo3XYGDmLE6FOZn-_1O_-G9wsp09fU5pZSZHjSLWTDtR8X8f_wsmcNX9i6YzRT0ZR" width="160" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></b><p></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">KIM WUERTZ </b><span style="font-size: x-large;">- Kim leads a Christian online writing community - </span><a href="https://christianwriterssanctuary.com/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Christian Writers Sanctuary. </a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> of which I am a part of. Kim has published many books, and you can find more of her writing </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/K.S.-Wuertz/author/B004Z8LNKY?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">on Amazon</a><span style="font-size: x-large;">. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Life-At-Mimosa-Lake-Visitor-ebook/dp/B005K2X8JI?ref_=ast_author_mpb" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="372" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCo3RSFzBojqdv7Wf4_tZS5WBvMLXTV09z3km4hFipUzgljZrPtx4zkLVKs9gxJUpASoUiih8wsr2grH3HhGVuWv3ZMCiPIWalhJcthjEHXJb3ur08k1Zkacxy6vnZ9J36vkTrq5Xvxuzw6S3DoINV3mzJtAbb67veFFF96INL2K5KcVumCrpZrbYY3cv9" width="179" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MAX-CHRISTIAN</b> - An excellent writer and storyteller, Max takes us back to the beginning of time to tell "The Greatest Story" - he is also writing in the Kindle Vella platform, one chapter/episode at a time - he weaves a compelling story starting in the Garden of Eden. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0CFWRL9DD" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="563" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEihcRsn9JG1pXxGlTb32cLs9XJvBxkHI3JYy9e8e6Li6CW0bmv7MVADN88oRQN3lvmo9EDPvugcRCGnNz86_pPOKJovL5FM7hXLaBQMHjAR4F5wHLDWogXw5hGXzKzkO4ICGIBrqxNZY__pT7hjq38pz7j8WxM7NOradXV_f_GY13j1dQ1R8ejYxIHgIxkm" width="150" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LANDEN MELTON - </b>An incredible author, who has become a friend that is very helpful navigating the difficult world of modern technology, Landen has written several devotional books, and also is the owner of Devotable - an online devotional website that is devoted to encouraging believers to a closer walk with the Lord. His website <b><a href="https://devotable.faith/" target="_blank">DEVOTABLE can be visited here. </a></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/Devotable/author/B07QG4BSFS?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgszTV5heu0rftGQ5xTkbGh59RSJrKDzwxVQvnN5A0e5w9ftgNLCh4UkbtNWWPcEC5sppi2JOLyHS2O1w7pJmC9FQVcW2zGXpYaM8NaEhZ3akWLOC2vGAhIenxs-N2NTifEuE-ZanaOQisCCKiUzeOPzemgYkoiXcsBOvq69LEjtH9L_9bpk0yt6n4GuWyk" width="160" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>BILLIE JO - </b>A fellow blogger whose heart for her family I love has written a book available on Amazon! She wrote this book as a gift to her mother - but it will be a blessing to you as well! You can find her book here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Afternoon-Coffee-Thoughts-Motherhood-Family/dp/1079523618" target="_blank">Afternoon Coffee</a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Afternoon-Coffee-Thoughts-Motherhood-Family/dp/1079523618" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="850" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjG1Lu8lvUqMd2Zyd3rXJpjB9ufrGWhH3grcgEDxFtmyF0Ic5vl3Yj9V5_xwoTvlrw43fOZ6FdnfvKl1-BvPA6bIOAnYIBFnKGD4_-IKBwNwKkkYLpoo6pwmTTHnua3C-gWo_-aldyDnPDAUvl3z9XOrPiB-ZEd1F_vwmynEwFnmwJyEJRBy_ZXFEfswHpF" width="150" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">These are just a few people who are a part of my life, whose writing journey has been shared with me, and I always love to be a part of encouraging others in their small business and writing endeavors. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Again, if you have a book or a website that offers something you've crafted homemade - or a book that you've written - please message me, and I will include your link here for the readers to browse through! </span></b></p><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><p><span style="font-size: large;">This is a busy season with so much happening, but all of these books are available online, and you can support a fellow Christian and bless the one you are giving to as well! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">May this season of gifting others not be overshadowed by material things - but may all of our hearts be transformed by the greatest gift of all given to us - Jesus who came as the greatest gift to all - and this is why we celebrate Christmas. Our Christmas activities, decorating, and giving are done with Jesus at the core and center - may He be the focus and reason for all that we do! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Many blessings to all of you this Christmas Season </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">as we rejoice and celebrate the birth of Jesus our Lord and Savior! </span></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-7229546845166148742023-12-06T11:57:00.000-08:002023-12-06T11:57:18.909-08:00Homemade Elderberry Syrup Flu Remedy<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yes, it's that time of year when all the nasty bugs that multiply and grow in confined warm spaces begin to make their rounds. Our family was visited this past week by one who decided to stay and visit us. Not welcome at all - we hit the bug hard with all the tools in our "Keep Healthy" toolbox. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I was the first one to succumb to the bug, but I was only sick for about one day. As soon as I started feeling a scratchy throat, I began to take extra vitamin C and drink lots of water. The next day, I began to run a fever, had aches, chills, and just general malaise, and my head was congested. My fever only lasted a few hours as I began drinking elderberry tea. I also took Quercetin, vitamin C, vitamin D, and some cold medicine. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My husband also got "bit by the bug" within a few days. I made him some of the elderberry tea as well, and his fever broke within a few minutes of drinking the tea! It really made a believer out of him! He only missed one day of work, and I was sick for one day as well. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJldYnvKz905rXhH8lN8K9TrSj_LxIjoGQTDzvK6UH0NVF9giQGejlPGX6hHktxvackWe_tmeKsCvCW42YdY-EFavNOrC_UgUqtfuxP5mmeOWilSdllOM3ztTOjgGFhN6zr06v9BbET64roLr1RQRdTzma7sIzc3ulfVZvJTro-txIpCEVqcm8PL8pivX/s837/20231009_183357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJldYnvKz905rXhH8lN8K9TrSj_LxIjoGQTDzvK6UH0NVF9giQGejlPGX6hHktxvackWe_tmeKsCvCW42YdY-EFavNOrC_UgUqtfuxP5mmeOWilSdllOM3ztTOjgGFhN6zr06v9BbET64roLr1RQRdTzma7sIzc3ulfVZvJTro-txIpCEVqcm8PL8pivX/s320/20231009_183357.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Elderberry syrup<br /><br /><br /></span><span><a name='more'></a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Last fall, our family went out together on the quads and we harvested close to 20 pounds of elderberries. We cleaned them, removing all the leaves, twigs, and debris, and I made elderberry syrup. I was able to can about 25 pint jars of syrup which should last us all winter. Here is my method for making elderberry syrup. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Please note that if you can't locally harvest elderberries, you can buy dried elderberries online, and you can use the same method to make the syrup. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">ELDERBERRY SYRUP</span></h2><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Prepare elderberries by removing stems and leaves, and rinse. Put as many elderberries as you can into a large saucepot. I did not measure - because you can use as many as you like. Fill a stock pot with the berries, and then add just enough water to cover the berries. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvfZQkbIndjqdU8TtuSFnRftmGdgQ6sZSK7EbLtKtySv5UvtDALmGAHmrYZavnHD92JL56u1rWE1djHMd0ZQr3_aoPPQ6EQdxG6NNuHtwnjhELyRNm4HaH7dGH01vsL7aWrxBG9r0xdZ3qmDLZKWs-oYeoe5q2PXaKk8AFGwMy-u-j0L5AHcZnQ3paScp/s837/20231009_135008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvfZQkbIndjqdU8TtuSFnRftmGdgQ6sZSK7EbLtKtySv5UvtDALmGAHmrYZavnHD92JL56u1rWE1djHMd0ZQr3_aoPPQ6EQdxG6NNuHtwnjhELyRNm4HaH7dGH01vsL7aWrxBG9r0xdZ3qmDLZKWs-oYeoe5q2PXaKk8AFGwMy-u-j0L5AHcZnQ3paScp/s320/20231009_135008.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Bring the pot to a boil, then turn down to a simmer. Simmer for about 45 minutes. Strain berries from the liquid.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNshReG9ONX9MMIyG6OkB2P1a_uI0maERF-VV0kLH07VpDKd1a-a9Igq8A-4jpcit8D6LiY7q06l7xcKg-7ylv1-Z0FuJthnw0dKQ6jbA8Ac4Uhjbo9leBKsn0mY6YEW9Yo2rih0y-zc9qYk-Mp7pWlcwHopIjHC0tqcfR4wphRaXTjQbdiMc5tKcGYXC/s628/20231009_161636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNshReG9ONX9MMIyG6OkB2P1a_uI0maERF-VV0kLH07VpDKd1a-a9Igq8A-4jpcit8D6LiY7q06l7xcKg-7ylv1-Z0FuJthnw0dKQ6jbA8Ac4Uhjbo9leBKsn0mY6YEW9Yo2rih0y-zc9qYk-Mp7pWlcwHopIjHC0tqcfR4wphRaXTjQbdiMc5tKcGYXC/s320/20231009_161636.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is the elderberry syrup after I've strained the berries out. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Pour liquid into sterilized canning jars. I used pint jars. Clean the rim of the jar with a clean cloth moistened with vinegar, then add and tighten the lids. Waterbath for 10 minutes. Let cool for 24 hours, remove the outer lid, label jars with a Sharpie, and store in a cool place. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvNPqTun-2b2LXR359QHr3oDSkgRqzPRVrs9Bk3tNzgIqRtE7gVFqr-6L1StvC2PotjxLCdzpjNAZEs2NGr2aVDXluvgHOc2lw-O-YNR5UceBMLDBzApMaLS1TvvXahi3yG3JiGzFJLk6lV9nceCj0dcmxA54tTtn23H_-k6zC8DnYBoN4_d-HqwyTj7g/s628/20231206_102809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="474" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvNPqTun-2b2LXR359QHr3oDSkgRqzPRVrs9Bk3tNzgIqRtE7gVFqr-6L1StvC2PotjxLCdzpjNAZEs2NGr2aVDXluvgHOc2lw-O-YNR5UceBMLDBzApMaLS1TvvXahi3yG3JiGzFJLk6lV9nceCj0dcmxA54tTtn23H_-k6zC8DnYBoN4_d-HqwyTj7g/w303-h400/20231206_102809.jpg" width="303" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">To use: 2 Tbsp for adults, 1 Tbsp for children. Can be used every 2-3 hours. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Elderberry Hot Tea: Add the elderberry syrup to a mug, with the juice of 1 lemon, and 1 Tbsp honey, and fill the mug with hot water. Drink to your health! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZsFy03PLNVIUP2YXByExnMrIe5FWq4y2v6Tq4B4yLjoO0QXeiuLytgdZEpwLtKM6y3gGUsxvK5LFv8E56ov6DYV__q66_2ohbg0ovRZHTCsz9q0i_GCBDcN-57Z6-XS_Pw_mEaIkbgD9m1_rW7L-uuD_Y2Gr5Ur7NXtq4BXeCGZ8dhsFgWshWi26q5n-/s676/20231206_102822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblHYRzY7nXAI9AmhPl6WozC6h94_aad7-3-eBnX9rPh_-Xc22k0XbpBDSNPVA-QWbdROrdgu0TvIm8qzWt7VmByIgu39txuksrOoubWJg4Arclo4YReyqhNajqZWsKwgHOpp2yMDOYCs6Qu3olVZU4W7KIYN5unrQAGAPx14NWrBKARI_xC_GIjPaxT_k/s686/20231206_102843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="686" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblHYRzY7nXAI9AmhPl6WozC6h94_aad7-3-eBnX9rPh_-Xc22k0XbpBDSNPVA-QWbdROrdgu0TvIm8qzWt7VmByIgu39txuksrOoubWJg4Arclo4YReyqhNajqZWsKwgHOpp2yMDOYCs6Qu3olVZU4W7KIYN5unrQAGAPx14NWrBKARI_xC_GIjPaxT_k/w400-h366/20231206_102843.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quercetin is an excellent immune booster as well, <br />we began to take one capsule twice a day while we were sick. <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZsFy03PLNVIUP2YXByExnMrIe5FWq4y2v6Tq4B4yLjoO0QXeiuLytgdZEpwLtKM6y3gGUsxvK5LFv8E56ov6DYV__q66_2ohbg0ovRZHTCsz9q0i_GCBDcN-57Z6-XS_Pw_mEaIkbgD9m1_rW7L-uuD_Y2Gr5Ur7NXtq4BXeCGZ8dhsFgWshWi26q5n-/s676/20231206_102822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="676" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZsFy03PLNVIUP2YXByExnMrIe5FWq4y2v6Tq4B4yLjoO0QXeiuLytgdZEpwLtKM6y3gGUsxvK5LFv8E56ov6DYV__q66_2ohbg0ovRZHTCsz9q0i_GCBDcN-57Z6-XS_Pw_mEaIkbgD9m1_rW7L-uuD_Y2Gr5Ur7NXtq4BXeCGZ8dhsFgWshWi26q5n-/w640-h594/20231206_102822.jpg" style="cursor: move; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We eat a lot of oranges in the winter, and I save the orange peelings, cover them with water, add some cinnamon sticks, place them in a small saucepan on the stove, and let it simmer away, adding water as necessary. This adds a lovely aroma to the air, as well as moisture, which helps with warm indoor spaces that don't have much moisture, and our nasal passages get dried out. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Remember to get plenty of rest, drink some chicken broth - homemade if you have it - and eat as much vitamin C in fruit form (we love oranges) as possible. Take time to allow your body to fight the bug off. I think that is the hardest thing for us to do - just rest. But if you can do that, your body has an amazing ability to fight off the flu bug invaders with a little help from many things God has provided around us to help us heal. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Fwq3PlgRbOeG2NZK8lPml6YydUlFtj4zXrWu9Ih5VFkqZkYIxZmso_hfF0oQ1FJBRauEeNDAIZE5Y2rZqYhjVzNcqdZoAn20EQG7MCpTZhQjxsABAE8U2tQEFZCm-uzO2KXcujWZuV0FQb0smnoGodC3kQieNP-XJ3S531AupmhGs0vGyzoTjmfJczOt/s628/20231202_085054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Fwq3PlgRbOeG2NZK8lPml6YydUlFtj4zXrWu9Ih5VFkqZkYIxZmso_hfF0oQ1FJBRauEeNDAIZE5Y2rZqYhjVzNcqdZoAn20EQG7MCpTZhQjxsABAE8U2tQEFZCm-uzO2KXcujWZuV0FQb0smnoGodC3kQieNP-XJ3S531AupmhGs0vGyzoTjmfJczOt/s320/20231202_085054.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We got a wonderful snowstorm bringing us about 8" of snow. <br />Dan, Riley, and I walked as it snowed - it was so beautiful! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR62LmLIJUisBpSA1Y5-v30vrCuUykakUKlvOttousWdLslvB4cj77XQ_YTHTvXyvo2sH6UAGG-Bm2SE3_6jIGl90I_CzFxzOoyauyJgtGExa-LNpDI3uqITCkzxiDXZrwVxbbRrstnhaUii2m9IfEN5QTm9nvqgVSJ4f9NuymxAAlGbMWJW1okK36utQ2/s628/20231202_093855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR62LmLIJUisBpSA1Y5-v30vrCuUykakUKlvOttousWdLslvB4cj77XQ_YTHTvXyvo2sH6UAGG-Bm2SE3_6jIGl90I_CzFxzOoyauyJgtGExa-LNpDI3uqITCkzxiDXZrwVxbbRrstnhaUii2m9IfEN5QTm9nvqgVSJ4f9NuymxAAlGbMWJW1okK36utQ2/w480-h640/20231202_093855.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We got about 8" of snow! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmktqU3GbksVSGZ4onxisRp0WtssJqVVubxnGX24osS4_f85tGMarFf5QplH0csYwMnM2a71fiU61N4rpKoQIrbxocT_Dzd5FraGJylxlK09eZz9C9RsbpKprlkhqvzSgWkfvMiBkLAt8V0Pzi58SSM6Nv1VnaCidTOLiVIkCQCJRz14aw2NJKnCupnCc/s837/20231202_093916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmktqU3GbksVSGZ4onxisRp0WtssJqVVubxnGX24osS4_f85tGMarFf5QplH0csYwMnM2a71fiU61N4rpKoQIrbxocT_Dzd5FraGJylxlK09eZz9C9RsbpKprlkhqvzSgWkfvMiBkLAt8V0Pzi58SSM6Nv1VnaCidTOLiVIkCQCJRz14aw2NJKnCupnCc/w640-h480/20231202_093916.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My garden resting under the welcome blanket of snow. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Z5rqWO3fk0S9S-YBFRTLKgFYCjjdCT6AERDmHIjc-vPImdOpdOvuIggtMqIpF1NmEJuV8VSeFihlCNU8CICPYD-uTM_mjBPpS_JQYzaOdSanKbKRA5QuJwtmx-K10INrjRU-ZAlOnGUXKsyQW7z852hU87nvdAq0z5uVsK0PK4GVyktPVWeR57TIJzw3/s628/20231205_094322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Z5rqWO3fk0S9S-YBFRTLKgFYCjjdCT6AERDmHIjc-vPImdOpdOvuIggtMqIpF1NmEJuV8VSeFihlCNU8CICPYD-uTM_mjBPpS_JQYzaOdSanKbKRA5QuJwtmx-K10INrjRU-ZAlOnGUXKsyQW7z852hU87nvdAq0z5uVsK0PK4GVyktPVWeR57TIJzw3/s320/20231205_094322.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Unfortunately an "atmospheric river of rain" has descended upon us now, and instead of snowing, it is raining, making everything icy and very mucky. We are hoping this weather pattern changes soon! They tell us by the weekend it should be snowing again - now that makes me happy!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV-kCmsaFErTfkUbKcFgdN4TDSZZ33aOhE0_uyQ8MAhhncICuYvUPvcuMV2Xc87P8H3yNYPSNyXXgiTKD7zr3mp5uprLJhNzx-rRLHZ4fLeSaHL1PavlUXtUD-iZoVie_M0dEPpVQqRl6nH0AgxkSMaWa63j4gt4-EHDZ1fbBmLyOIOVtKAcqZY1v-YaA/s837/PSX_20231123_075311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV-kCmsaFErTfkUbKcFgdN4TDSZZ33aOhE0_uyQ8MAhhncICuYvUPvcuMV2Xc87P8H3yNYPSNyXXgiTKD7zr3mp5uprLJhNzx-rRLHZ4fLeSaHL1PavlUXtUD-iZoVie_M0dEPpVQqRl6nH0AgxkSMaWa63j4gt4-EHDZ1fbBmLyOIOVtKAcqZY1v-YaA/w640-h480/PSX_20231123_075311.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A picture I took recently - how I love the view of the changing season of Fall, <br />into Winter showcased in this photo. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r_ypuw2S7Lo" width="320" youtube-src-id="r_ypuw2S7Lo"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Enjoy this video I created of a sweet Christmas song - we will definitely have a White Christmas here this year:) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Stay well my friends, and don't forget to share below your favorite remedy for fighting those traveling virus bugs! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Blessings to all of you! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> </span></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-15654079944395614642023-11-27T21:45:00.000-08:002023-11-27T21:45:51.865-08:00A Season of Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnx1hkacLSsI3OCj4P5rZJ2MkvxvtF2WtXh6W_StJ382SHFfoz_UN1_2QIWQWCIC9sFPdV8KKIGD_JKyK-HBHC_IGldHayukLhh7Yo77L_q1slISi6u8vcbzC3ObHdhovZlFqILDme_cDY5KY0mbi4jom-9DjhSiJZfom2QRYQq5l9NcNLs5bac-188OU/s837/20231123_150548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnx1hkacLSsI3OCj4P5rZJ2MkvxvtF2WtXh6W_StJ382SHFfoz_UN1_2QIWQWCIC9sFPdV8KKIGD_JKyK-HBHC_IGldHayukLhh7Yo77L_q1slISi6u8vcbzC3ObHdhovZlFqILDme_cDY5KY0mbi4jom-9DjhSiJZfom2QRYQq5l9NcNLs5bac-188OU/w400-h300/20231123_150548.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br />How is it that joy and sorrow walk hand in hand? Seasons of grief and sorrow have weighed on us throughout the past year - and yet, when I look back on the blessings of the Lord throughout the most difficult times, I am thankful - once again - that walking with the Lord smoothes the difficult places, and brings joy in unexpected ways. <span><a name='more'></a></span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We were supposed to be in Texas this Thanksgiving, and last year, my Gram, my Dad, and Mom Moseley were with us. Thanksgiving last year was such a joyful time, and we celebrated in grand style - appreciating the moments we had with the ones we loved so much. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />But this year - our family was missing three precious faces around the gathering tables. My Canadian family celebrated Thanksgiving in October and passed that milestone of a first without Gram. Then this year, both my Dad and Mom Moseley have gone on with Jesus. The loss of their presence changed everything. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Because of our many trips to Texas this year, we did not return for Thanksgiving. My Mom went on a special trip with my sister and her family to get her out of the house so she wouldn't be alone. My brothers celebrated by frying a turkey on Christmas Day - they said it was wonderful. Dan's family gathered together, the ones who could. <br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We were blessed beyond measure this Thanksgiving too. Danielle's in-laws upon hearing that we had no Thanksgiving plans, immediately invited us to join them in their lovely home for the day of feasting, fellowship, and camaraderie. How blessed it was! </span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLILwTYF2WKVMntuHnJaYuCAgxGHIxF3Cfn8yQCvgFxCmmdZke5r5NCP2HmAIXNNWWBGRCs42OASN4Ox7P1oUDhazfK4hXJ1QrNWY0H6TrjZ663QD_N_PDkMLJ5Gkwxpuf39HcA8Sz8vIPyeMBY4WFs16izHwzFtAzRYJuF_Sq9Fijy4FXjUljPPcPCMk/s837/20231123_145332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLILwTYF2WKVMntuHnJaYuCAgxGHIxF3Cfn8yQCvgFxCmmdZke5r5NCP2HmAIXNNWWBGRCs42OASN4Ox7P1oUDhazfK4hXJ1QrNWY0H6TrjZ663QD_N_PDkMLJ5Gkwxpuf39HcA8Sz8vIPyeMBY4WFs16izHwzFtAzRYJuF_Sq9Fijy4FXjUljPPcPCMk/w400-h300/20231123_145332.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Generous amounts of food kept arriving as guests kept coming!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGs-ClEXvi8DYc8spumY1gx26hIXYgZQe1jcrNaYh6znXqTCpYNxWK9Liy4M9U0HZpR6lbXL7aeBi_nTnmML3QBMUIxkj04EgcNKHeOnf9alUbubNGJI0zU36rkDT_G53beRVJKFEdR2o8MkwRM0ag8t7CUwi7-YBV_BkpJ3ukbvauyk2KaPOydb6BuDsh/s628/20231123_150334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGs-ClEXvi8DYc8spumY1gx26hIXYgZQe1jcrNaYh6znXqTCpYNxWK9Liy4M9U0HZpR6lbXL7aeBi_nTnmML3QBMUIxkj04EgcNKHeOnf9alUbubNGJI0zU36rkDT_G53beRVJKFEdR2o8MkwRM0ag8t7CUwi7-YBV_BkpJ3ukbvauyk2KaPOydb6BuDsh/w300-h400/20231123_150334.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I made my mother's recipe for Deep Dish Apple Pie. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToTnI2zPMcIPIwYVesMl0RWmTX86mQ_Kicvx8GjLti2PMedLMR2izj8jSxj3vBLgdMOOHUC9iR03Wcx8yesFQxGRcFnjekLzNiKBZvj2PQadRopbcG5zAkzMLxV7WXv9PW2bUg3qGGLMSvCk0fTNEQ-ymr9LD9Np1NQBp6wPAsks6zE-yKHKbYtiFBiBr/s837/20231123_150428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToTnI2zPMcIPIwYVesMl0RWmTX86mQ_Kicvx8GjLti2PMedLMR2izj8jSxj3vBLgdMOOHUC9iR03Wcx8yesFQxGRcFnjekLzNiKBZvj2PQadRopbcG5zAkzMLxV7WXv9PW2bUg3qGGLMSvCk0fTNEQ-ymr9LD9Np1NQBp6wPAsks6zE-yKHKbYtiFBiBr/w400-h300/20231123_150428.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmvzpBj40JHVAPmwFVW6arlTNNBFd-apTJHa0ZRC79vbkR-zKZFXOvveBwXEJ_5CyewjUrpCOzFs6RTihxqWXMd9sFvPrRzYFZotaF-1MPWP2mUf8pO4GgzvZ9pIJonqbu0LhHoscD6NSULwyIRJ1gODwPpO9Kf3XoSxefq_WdU03H7Qz_-YLvqlT9M19/s628/20231123_150441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmvzpBj40JHVAPmwFVW6arlTNNBFd-apTJHa0ZRC79vbkR-zKZFXOvveBwXEJ_5CyewjUrpCOzFs6RTihxqWXMd9sFvPrRzYFZotaF-1MPWP2mUf8pO4GgzvZ9pIJonqbu0LhHoscD6NSULwyIRJ1gODwPpO9Kf3XoSxefq_WdU03H7Qz_-YLvqlT9M19/w300-h400/20231123_150441.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbcilz0w6ff3uKR0ONNTtggFIv9L67W8S-5Zn5XuUXS91hRaJG_nIakgmQu7wlXKZq0TULAIIBtXJaXRLGpDY8xcikF_6oQtMn6FcLfLVgQRrIFGqLkEurMSXTfSj-1KLt9Zz5pBHgyem3Kx1vA6a7454MhWV9jeuXEpz6ifSozEkxgLW4VBECXDyfog2/s837/20231123_150455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbcilz0w6ff3uKR0ONNTtggFIv9L67W8S-5Zn5XuUXS91hRaJG_nIakgmQu7wlXKZq0TULAIIBtXJaXRLGpDY8xcikF_6oQtMn6FcLfLVgQRrIFGqLkEurMSXTfSj-1KLt9Zz5pBHgyem3Kx1vA6a7454MhWV9jeuXEpz6ifSozEkxgLW4VBECXDyfog2/w400-h300/20231123_150455.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4mFQP3V279NVN3dMoChcntmlfj7DBnhLHCyiB2ga-0HyyJWe4_DhwSb9WBEO8jciWmlG2ppUH4AOkIFdB_6wCm_l8BXpIiMF0pLpw5NvbYKhmQ7WL4exy4oQAn6ItZBfTXYCkDwUDMnzna-3gve-jhBkKNcCaeEkXO56B7e-wxE3HOAOKBuZoMHiDXH2/s628/20231123_162640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4mFQP3V279NVN3dMoChcntmlfj7DBnhLHCyiB2ga-0HyyJWe4_DhwSb9WBEO8jciWmlG2ppUH4AOkIFdB_6wCm_l8BXpIiMF0pLpw5NvbYKhmQ7WL4exy4oQAn6ItZBfTXYCkDwUDMnzna-3gve-jhBkKNcCaeEkXO56B7e-wxE3HOAOKBuZoMHiDXH2/w300-h400/20231123_162640.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The buffet line never seemed to end! Danielle's mother-in-law made the rolls, <br />oh my, they melted in your mouth :) So much good food, and we had wonderful fellowship too. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXeR7D-4EcJL7fpb9CE63vK4yu3la2zkj1wOFpQRs7ivdhajQHswq5PJLo7TcbtfM-j61dRJrCPBM-UUyQcwSAr1eP7jq1RAm6kmNo7vKICB78MvZXHeo6mVe2Y88X5nlexnia417wkEk9Q5uUr59BtxKHtjESn0yiN8ZADe68mU3QLVTZY1ZS3nB67Y8/s837/20231123_175020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXeR7D-4EcJL7fpb9CE63vK4yu3la2zkj1wOFpQRs7ivdhajQHswq5PJLo7TcbtfM-j61dRJrCPBM-UUyQcwSAr1eP7jq1RAm6kmNo7vKICB78MvZXHeo6mVe2Y88X5nlexnia417wkEk9Q5uUr59BtxKHtjESn0yiN8ZADe68mU3QLVTZY1ZS3nB67Y8/s320/20231123_175020.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">All our family was together, with Alanna's brother joining us. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Such a special time, and we are so very grateful for the memories made. Danielle's became family to us as soon as we met them, and we have gathered for many meals together, both at their home and ours. I am grateful for this marvelous blessing, that our families can join in together to celebrate the Thanksgiving season in our hearts, and for the Lord! </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">How was your Thanksgiving for those of you who are my American readers? I pray that you were able to find joy in the midst of perhaps some sorrow. I think that is the way it is these days. There is much sorrow and grief in our lives that we don't often share - but it is there. Illness, financial struggles, relationships, overseas conflicts - so many things can bring sorrow, grief, and worry to our lives. But, we can walk among the tears with joy too. I know because I've done it. He walks with us and loves us in the midst of it all. I'm thankful for His presence, ever near, and faithful in the midst of trying times. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I recently ran across this website filled with some really powerful devotions. You might be interested in reading it :) <a href="https://devotable.faith/" target="_blank">Devotable</a> There are some particularly moving, and encouraging devotions written there to enjoy. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I want to leave you with an encouraging video - may your day be blessed, and uplifted by the blessings of the Lord that carry us through the days of grief and sorrow :) </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GUTLNgsOCtc" width="320" youtube-src-id="GUTLNgsOCtc"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Psalm 61:5-8</i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>My soul, wait thou only upon God; </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>for my expectation is from Him. </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>He only is my rock and salvation: He is my defense;</i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>I shall not be moved. </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>in God is my salvation and my glory:</i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is God. </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Trust in Him at all times; ye people, </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>pour out your heart before Him: </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>God is a refuge for us. </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Selah. </i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-48412297918244257542023-11-20T12:56:00.000-08:002023-11-20T12:59:44.730-08:00A Season for Thanksgiving<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Thanks to each of you who were so kind to share your condolences to our family in the loss of our precious Mother, Mom Moseley. With the holidays approaching, this year will be hard for us without the presence of my Gram, my Dad, and Mom Moseley. But, as I've shared before, our hearts don't grieve as those who have no hope - we are thankful for their eternal presence with the Lord, that is such a comfort. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">As we journeyed to Texas for the funeral of Mom Moseley, I wanted to share some of those pictures with you. I wanted my last post to be all about my precious Mom Moseley, but for this post - I will share some pictures of our trip there. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUdxZuXgmDjPFhmOAR_6jAVKynxNfb2hVGbx4tBnhPdroI-QURGH7FiCd6rdLJ3RRu023G6QzncaEu2-h_NW9be6zC-LpKCGowPlveYtLQ1skFtUG3pgaV5CDL49SEw5w4jhyphenhyphenI-SmtUZKib1VKgWbXXuFj4MYvUnUWEB0giQpqgcFntRsCZ_XSnOuihqim/s480/23255.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="480" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUdxZuXgmDjPFhmOAR_6jAVKynxNfb2hVGbx4tBnhPdroI-QURGH7FiCd6rdLJ3RRu023G6QzncaEu2-h_NW9be6zC-LpKCGowPlveYtLQ1skFtUG3pgaV5CDL49SEw5w4jhyphenhyphenI-SmtUZKib1VKgWbXXuFj4MYvUnUWEB0giQpqgcFntRsCZ_XSnOuihqim/w400-h309/23255.jpeg" width="400" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My family held an impromptu 50th birthday celebration for me. The plan was to celebrate at Thanksgiving when we usually come down to Texas each year. However, the extenuating circumstances dictated otherwise, so those who could come, came to a breakfast my Mom prepared for us Saturday morning after the funeral. My sister Elayne picked up a balloon bouquet and this cake for me. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GmE1B4_FIlMZLhAjHpIeAIRgw5eqsm2vtAe0tOKYE7TtI5_U_rvECB0IAiPA5fWhVc_oeER3nHoniSq0TR34t82nW9jhoL7FOC703LnEB46pdo8ry2-5KvHAoY3qv9didCYTXrhDR-z5vnSRGFi8pKAM1-lDixSEGQQ_-ylDyVOCaf9XrABIHg1_3YWM/w640-h480/23384.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My sister made this fun collage page for me. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sydvbQlwEXmgbGtW5hb_QsOW5e2_CeHFF8X-1MuR16S90GCdpHZXsh_32rXSu0sRyEI7nI1HmnuNbwRUldTNyRBjJVKUXXt7gME5omKXp4XrCSTbVQeHtasbakDfUCS7Rr1xM_eA0J0ERjgIjosnjq_LhrHEQehzVi5eGReXMK-5Pq6QPw45T0422_xi/s4000/20231104_092449.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sydvbQlwEXmgbGtW5hb_QsOW5e2_CeHFF8X-1MuR16S90GCdpHZXsh_32rXSu0sRyEI7nI1HmnuNbwRUldTNyRBjJVKUXXt7gME5omKXp4XrCSTbVQeHtasbakDfUCS7Rr1xM_eA0J0ERjgIjosnjq_LhrHEQehzVi5eGReXMK-5Pq6QPw45T0422_xi/s320/20231104_092449.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUS2VYxKMibOFl7mJiehZl5AJ742QwjJEEBHdaWtpM06mYW8nNXNaTFFC5nBPOt1EASCvqDK0zuVvnAjR9ZfHSQ4CvO_6l9vat68cIzbqgehsyk-ndywFAn39iguj46P1L5iO8CWONG6TuJeGnyuken4OAc4I6sODuRz6N0HUk6VLxsYr2OKb9jQLWDRME/s4000/20231104_092429.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUS2VYxKMibOFl7mJiehZl5AJ742QwjJEEBHdaWtpM06mYW8nNXNaTFFC5nBPOt1EASCvqDK0zuVvnAjR9ZfHSQ4CvO_6l9vat68cIzbqgehsyk-ndywFAn39iguj46P1L5iO8CWONG6TuJeGnyuken4OAc4I6sODuRz6N0HUk6VLxsYr2OKb9jQLWDRME/w300-h400/20231104_092429.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister Elayne and I <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis9aCwE7nFTo2Y8lx1_3a7UsGlYSQgmP0Pu9l71P5nxqOMysFSMobtJVtvavabKuozrAtnB9KJ5sOyGLs-gym2wBqkI3CsBjskiOaC2sh37A0wO_vhRGa8UfoUULscW5kyNU5IsvNhZ-m32tNvXyNrwQJmPjcZ-OFHGWfUpx_Z3uAav4jzQYeuiJV6tnk5/s480/23254.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis9aCwE7nFTo2Y8lx1_3a7UsGlYSQgmP0Pu9l71P5nxqOMysFSMobtJVtvavabKuozrAtnB9KJ5sOyGLs-gym2wBqkI3CsBjskiOaC2sh37A0wO_vhRGa8UfoUULscW5kyNU5IsvNhZ-m32tNvXyNrwQJmPjcZ-OFHGWfUpx_Z3uAav4jzQYeuiJV6tnk5/w300-h400/23254.jpeg" width="300" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GmE1B4_FIlMZLhAjHpIeAIRgw5eqsm2vtAe0tOKYE7TtI5_U_rvECB0IAiPA5fWhVc_oeER3nHoniSq0TR34t82nW9jhoL7FOC703LnEB46pdo8ry2-5KvHAoY3qv9didCYTXrhDR-z5vnSRGFi8pKAM1-lDixSEGQQ_-ylDyVOCaf9XrABIHg1_3YWM/s1280/23384.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCDeNsWO_GGZzgiH7gaSZlb-m0HHlu2avpQkjrP5egfHRAF_rYjxz1GB7_z25itD2K7nMhwaVg-d6KXmqXubwVvFeYDxqvImiEDKF2Gm29tu35giqzY798JbL3mc_5XePoP7CZT4XZuXynJkgJF00vh_t7Jme1aYagLsRNhmoLOJUA3FSItNNdxkh3s_d/s160/23261.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="120" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCDeNsWO_GGZzgiH7gaSZlb-m0HHlu2avpQkjrP5egfHRAF_rYjxz1GB7_z25itD2K7nMhwaVg-d6KXmqXubwVvFeYDxqvImiEDKF2Gm29tu35giqzY798JbL3mc_5XePoP7CZT4XZuXynJkgJF00vh_t7Jme1aYagLsRNhmoLOJUA3FSItNNdxkh3s_d/w240-h320/23261.jpeg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDa7YqHjzMdcUis43ZCcqh-waefT3niTBUyf_MrLiQZOgNpznBczixtWez71r5Rgxc82uie0XdiGwRIhLM8EX79Fx7ORGzlKRcqyfxfhbQ6O0Me007pxJMfFQwX3poYMnlf-btJrBCgbHpi9TTlAlUFThFvUxwvQ1wsIYH69Ij5WkFqa-QhIM4d-m2dnta/s360/23263.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="270" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDa7YqHjzMdcUis43ZCcqh-waefT3niTBUyf_MrLiQZOgNpznBczixtWez71r5Rgxc82uie0XdiGwRIhLM8EX79Fx7ORGzlKRcqyfxfhbQ6O0Me007pxJMfFQwX3poYMnlf-btJrBCgbHpi9TTlAlUFThFvUxwvQ1wsIYH69Ij5WkFqa-QhIM4d-m2dnta/s320/23263.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Mom took one of Dad's shirts and made it into a pillow for me. In the pocket were some pictures taken with Dad wearing this shirt, as well as one of his pens and a comb (which he always had in his pockets). Oh, the tears that came! It was such a precious gift that I will always treasure! (My sister sent me the picture of me holding the pillow, and for some reason, it is very fuzzy). <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaZaP2Ga3c892mwFheo2AwJLiMRYSpsB-Eqr6ay179OXw4w9L90XWDtwiUTtMrng8sESBAdXGpwISfy7y2KEvqDqN-XCwVt_faN9ljaNnbFOWmwMqURvC5P5vkokO_hcLd2TxZtfSKB95Cl_HyelhhQQnnFdDdgKmRvRoH90FNmM5snhvkjMKXY0hmNXV/s4000/20231103_150007.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaZaP2Ga3c892mwFheo2AwJLiMRYSpsB-Eqr6ay179OXw4w9L90XWDtwiUTtMrng8sESBAdXGpwISfy7y2KEvqDqN-XCwVt_faN9ljaNnbFOWmwMqURvC5P5vkokO_hcLd2TxZtfSKB95Cl_HyelhhQQnnFdDdgKmRvRoH90FNmM5snhvkjMKXY0hmNXV/w300-h400/20231103_150007.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">While we were in Texas, we enjoyed some wonderful Mexican food <br />and soaked up some of the warm sunshine! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2368" data-original-width="2503" height="606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_s3S-AHVmWh6whbm3onjULFkKEx5u1kc_K3T0_foRv5dHV0J55aUDoR4o6gGEtGPm202cGCUQQ73Oh5YIOOHf0g-AQQLHRl_F1lv1AvZS-bXUU0JxW2OsNpJ7TBds8zwOpQzkPf0s4ZNA5UV86SMWEHNspjug7cBcZe6ophmLY27sdJ3sO7wP1446-Lt/w640-h606/20231102_204151.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have such a wonderful and supportive family! My Mom (not in the picture) and my 2 brothers and 1 sister came to be with us at the funeral for Mom Moseley. I wish my mother could've been in this picture! She was not around when the spontaneous moment happened. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2609" data-original-width="3304" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWgQ4JLkTomehm8T5OJxcJpKTPbE5Gxr9CArlX_SR1yXb5G_AnZSc4I3_cS9pj3tGFfiqxwludsNNmNQ70-1gQSJ6ewxvwMnCNKiJu-E7Bfn7LElKUPx4hpLApNJnpdQPyaoD5hHaXqnh21D7ArkNeKsICuDkyHsWjxCv9e2jsl_x6JHlXHvm030ewxi4/w640-h506/20231102_213855.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our family after the funeral in the church fellowship hall. <br />Mom Moseley's church put on a lovely meal for all of us. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1863" data-original-width="2578" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmSlkaQrBEEmSqU-Q5rijdaPL7n3rX6fKnjCAnCRVEI-y9Oo_bzVRzttwbX4A-vMokouZw0AJ6EGR8-A5SAn8h_wLw5rHu_-wdj17mV3Sz3tLsD0SrKZOVcRozJO8_Le41amxPavQR91kMKaBdQTW7jS6s1IiGxzSk2g3elb14l7TtOCFuGnwQxEMZzYi/w640-h462/20231103_112918.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The day after the funeral, the graveside service was held. This is our family at the graveside. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FM21oJiSTGmyjgk92fZqdUCECOAVQD8jShDl3TGhO5A352Q6KGkjEkMqPkAhAvD3XHKrwz5vl7V4FVJBv-owQcmgl-KyrgYjeF1iaA4HZl-qPoAoRy8a65hhVUwLbdwTO5vN553f0XeFgN_vWTm3RzLhvYwROykGx-BpJUC4f1whVXy1hu64gi0RVI96/w640-h480/20231022_093543.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">While we were in Texas, we stopped by my Dad's gravesite. Mom is working on getting the stone ready. He has a beautiful spot in the cemetery, right by the entrance. It was good to sit at the gravesite and remember my Dad. I still can't believe he is gone! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2dMi7uH58xWqH_pUfkdsTvbxvvZ5XO7NPu-rf0cyBfeq1iyGl67Rn3qlamUilZKjbmWhE5dXwnTl_uIdf2sVP8CFAHOWgWRHfeYRaJEjs9tpsHCF9bLB9XZOzZl5r98yf6sv_uxkrZhsS8tHnXk0x-QNxQFPcaK1_a5rr_PeD0P0DLQY5Qj3okOaVT5r/w640-h480/20231016_111624.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Back home, this is what awaited me!!! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWgQ4JLkTomehm8T5OJxcJpKTPbE5Gxr9CArlX_SR1yXb5G_AnZSc4I3_cS9pj3tGFfiqxwludsNNmNQ70-1gQSJ6ewxvwMnCNKiJu-E7Bfn7LElKUPx4hpLApNJnpdQPyaoD5hHaXqnh21D7ArkNeKsICuDkyHsWjxCv9e2jsl_x6JHlXHvm030ewxi4/s3304/20231102_213855.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmSlkaQrBEEmSqU-Q5rijdaPL7n3rX6fKnjCAnCRVEI-y9Oo_bzVRzttwbX4A-vMokouZw0AJ6EGR8-A5SAn8h_wLw5rHu_-wdj17mV3Sz3tLsD0SrKZOVcRozJO8_Le41amxPavQR91kMKaBdQTW7jS6s1IiGxzSk2g3elb14l7TtOCFuGnwQxEMZzYi/s2578/20231103_112918.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2dMi7uH58xWqH_pUfkdsTvbxvvZ5XO7NPu-rf0cyBfeq1iyGl67Rn3qlamUilZKjbmWhE5dXwnTl_uIdf2sVP8CFAHOWgWRHfeYRaJEjs9tpsHCF9bLB9XZOzZl5r98yf6sv_uxkrZhsS8tHnXk0x-QNxQFPcaK1_a5rr_PeD0P0DLQY5Qj3okOaVT5r/s4000/20231016_111624.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_s3S-AHVmWh6whbm3onjULFkKEx5u1kc_K3T0_foRv5dHV0J55aUDoR4o6gGEtGPm202cGCUQQ73Oh5YIOOHf0g-AQQLHRl_F1lv1AvZS-bXUU0JxW2OsNpJ7TBds8zwOpQzkPf0s4ZNA5UV86SMWEHNspjug7cBcZe6ophmLY27sdJ3sO7wP1446-Lt/s2503/20231102_204151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The Fall season arrives on the heels of Summer's busy season, and my kitchen is buzzing with activity from August through November! In fact, I am STILL canning tomatoes that are ripening from my garden. Hard to believe isn't it! I leave the tomatoes on the vine in the garden until the last possible moment when a frost/freeze is imminent, and then I gather all the tomatoes, putting them into cardboard boxes lined with newspaper to ripen. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7jzMEsJkfPdEKXuwQZBOxlB4GYMmLTu4xK0SAibaKj1k8ak59FpCThTf1iNeZheQ0OtrD804_FBUXJ6TDu5UoEKLOlieTK2Bu-U0NIRQ5USsyZFamGMshZREh45q71EwFQKpgQ8XRORA5YLDXqDKVswboKydVYDIjMAvmstdBpkqYWR3NjogSTGUCsqb/s320/20231114_182429.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I just canned these tomatoes on Saturday. I still have more to ripen! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7jzMEsJkfPdEKXuwQZBOxlB4GYMmLTu4xK0SAibaKj1k8ak59FpCThTf1iNeZheQ0OtrD804_FBUXJ6TDu5UoEKLOlieTK2Bu-U0NIRQ5USsyZFamGMshZREh45q71EwFQKpgQ8XRORA5YLDXqDKVswboKydVYDIjMAvmstdBpkqYWR3NjogSTGUCsqb/s4000/20231114_182429.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2binX4NJ52Sw5IXLoMwncAwMZHP-EFCQJ4KvAEyER7MhTiCio__wYOGX3cRBVL7_3zG5aJ-SCVtG2ZSVNbzFHR94_QCH4M1xLREFQbR1gDctnE_8TWAMjbWExLR2r944ci1PVWRYZKq1cdgoUq8w_5TUy8GyqdzoH2AdbSdt0qXty9Kh9aPgjd0waOOpE/s320/20231014_224331.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've been canning pinto beans, potatoes, carrots, and chicken broth. <br />It is a busy harvest season for me, all the way into Thanksgiving! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSPRm2Y3O-Ym2rL0vod1a8XrYAfg3Q6E3bf3Y6T_SCCiAi2eb5wGu6jSMOCGOQngbA04FqtFQLruwdKE8LH2AnkF_f_-e6WtwEPppnluwTWPyh3tSVZDHJNz_onIM2xKyq5LwfAPRJbL6E_dH5ACVLHMG3Bk_mduffcCjxCR0fy9wIjekAxP9IdvXQvsy/s4000/20231118_121816.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSPRm2Y3O-Ym2rL0vod1a8XrYAfg3Q6E3bf3Y6T_SCCiAi2eb5wGu6jSMOCGOQngbA04FqtFQLruwdKE8LH2AnkF_f_-e6WtwEPppnluwTWPyh3tSVZDHJNz_onIM2xKyq5LwfAPRJbL6E_dH5ACVLHMG3Bk_mduffcCjxCR0fy9wIjekAxP9IdvXQvsy/s320/20231118_121816.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We will have plenty to eat this winter :) <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2binX4NJ52Sw5IXLoMwncAwMZHP-EFCQJ4KvAEyER7MhTiCio__wYOGX3cRBVL7_3zG5aJ-SCVtG2ZSVNbzFHR94_QCH4M1xLREFQbR1gDctnE_8TWAMjbWExLR2r944ci1PVWRYZKq1cdgoUq8w_5TUy8GyqdzoH2AdbSdt0qXty9Kh9aPgjd0waOOpE/s4000/20231014_224331.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzJZs1JV0-TyNhCVaiO5PlfD_DbXSfi74SKwpwcqzVM-kAXQ5eXK6-tKvLAFf8tsz2kearSNly0O7BlUElrK7izAXuKxCaVZ7Kdk8tJ5WdrvAtkwuSewEsimhgyeeK7ad_SlCkKppObQgwWoo-XNoxzRacoKmxsOloV_CzL03-5UlTf5znGufKxXhawZu/s4000/20231118_121850.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzJZs1JV0-TyNhCVaiO5PlfD_DbXSfi74SKwpwcqzVM-kAXQ5eXK6-tKvLAFf8tsz2kearSNly0O7BlUElrK7izAXuKxCaVZ7Kdk8tJ5WdrvAtkwuSewEsimhgyeeK7ad_SlCkKppObQgwWoo-XNoxzRacoKmxsOloV_CzL03-5UlTf5znGufKxXhawZu/w640-h480/20231118_121850.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sourdough bread rising, next to freshly canned pinto beans. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJUUaQt8cVVQLkXeovrrOmaLPPni-KHMiEcnEk14zUy5Bal63u5SbJxRw4O-dnW-Y5FoRX_P4IEC3DXIDk8HG57D34xHHIS3GO5X4bgwCEM-C1wWNvNhRlCcPVM23KrWm0fHdwncTn_aVYOD18n5yBHYOBcNGMU1Ra-e9Gcc3OaW5qVc8h2cFn0QZ11cm/w640-h480/20231030_095510.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The Lord allowed my path to cross with a dear lady in our community who has a burden for community prayer as well. Together we held a Pastor's Prayer Breakfast for all the pastors in our local community to come together and pray. Sadly, many of them weren't able to come. We hope to host another one soon. Schedules are so busy, it is hard to find a time to accommodate everyone. But how important it is that we gather together to pray! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJUUaQt8cVVQLkXeovrrOmaLPPni-KHMiEcnEk14zUy5Bal63u5SbJxRw4O-dnW-Y5FoRX_P4IEC3DXIDk8HG57D34xHHIS3GO5X4bgwCEM-C1wWNvNhRlCcPVM23KrWm0fHdwncTn_aVYOD18n5yBHYOBcNGMU1Ra-e9Gcc3OaW5qVc8h2cFn0QZ11cm/s4000/20231030_095510.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNBq0cbotpG3HydjeGgPIPxoNVhFRqHjJ2saqYKQ3LEcAvcHHjnjSiYHNWXMQd7AA6DN1_2L6_sa3E-6d1pZIzU5AOa77dF4wzXCLH2oAAxNN1bluJzuyIaGhn4-UuvI-AIyXA6TTCNw8hVYuHgqeSQZD4bA9Rz6Lxuu5_b7UgrW3BhyxKGpQkutekoZ2/s320/20231030_094852.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Those who came were so blessed, and all of us were encouraged after praying together for each other, so we hope to have another one in December. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNBq0cbotpG3HydjeGgPIPxoNVhFRqHjJ2saqYKQ3LEcAvcHHjnjSiYHNWXMQd7AA6DN1_2L6_sa3E-6d1pZIzU5AOa77dF4wzXCLH2oAAxNN1bluJzuyIaGhn4-UuvI-AIyXA6TTCNw8hVYuHgqeSQZD4bA9Rz6Lxuu5_b7UgrW3BhyxKGpQkutekoZ2/s4000/20231030_094852.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgxmPcAmVpZaXsk6HuzqEAZh9RvDOb7YTDErmnIHQP1gAhlee6caRjdw28Earw-UIM81d_T67vfIQxcLHvn55KtLgLXStSi3p_mY_1BCMaVH_PkeuKShifWNsmEzs1dOke4JbTDvZZhhjf-FTJbmsMoiUeRtkxL9hLl9YzQNlCCJ-DTiTa13S2l0Bu6a6/s4000/20231119_075554.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgxmPcAmVpZaXsk6HuzqEAZh9RvDOb7YTDErmnIHQP1gAhlee6caRjdw28Earw-UIM81d_T67vfIQxcLHvn55KtLgLXStSi3p_mY_1BCMaVH_PkeuKShifWNsmEzs1dOke4JbTDvZZhhjf-FTJbmsMoiUeRtkxL9hLl9YzQNlCCJ-DTiTa13S2l0Bu6a6/w480-h640/20231119_075554.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Winter showed up on Sunday - Riley and I enjoyed our walk as the snow fell. <br />We didn't get much snow, but it is enough to remind us that Winter is upon us. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Most of you who have been reading my blog know how much I love winter. I really do love the snow and all the beauty it brings. I love the quietness of the snow as it falls, and the sparkling wonder it brings to the world. Nothing I like more than getting on my cross-country skis and going for a beautiful glide through our backwoods and enjoying the splendor of the world dressed in white. I've learned to embrace each season and to recognize it is just that - a season. All seasons come and go in their own time - although Winter certainly lingers the longest. I enjoy the rest Winter brings and the quiet. But, when it is time for Spring, I am ready for Winter to leave, and as we all know - that doesn't always happen, lol! But for now, we are staying busy preparing for Winter and looking forward to Thanksgiving. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This is the season to be reminded of how much we are blessed with, and to live in an attitude of gratitude. I live with great thankfulness for all the many blessings of the Lord, and I praise Him for the comfort that He has given us this year, as we've buried my Gram, my precious companion dog Annie, my Dad, and Mom Moseley. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I hope that your heart is encouraged, and full of the goodness of the Lord's blessings, and despite the difficulties that we all face, let us focus on the blessings - life is much better with a half-full cup than a half-empty cup :) </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PqS6lMgHCy4" width="320" youtube-src-id="PqS6lMgHCy4"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Enjoy this video that I created - Great Is His Faithfulness by Charity Gayle - no matter where you are, or what your situation, we have much to be thankful for! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Great Is His Faithfulness! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Happy Thanksgiving dear friends! </span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-46276766253126560602023-11-11T12:09:00.001-08:002023-11-11T12:10:33.648-08:00Another Goodbye until Eternity's Reunion...<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My precious Mother-in-Love, Edna Mae Moseley passed from this life into the arms of Jesus on October 29, 2023. Dan's Mom began a slow decline in health in the last few months since we saw her last when my father passed in June. She fell and broke her hip in early October, and was in ICU for several days. Dan and I had a trip planned for the third weekend of October but changed our plans and flew to Texas instead to spend the weekend with her. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisl7Rgh24OVWxHE7bhSbbkmZ3NUmCsT5fvxao7bs1mUSu2qN1rCp22xXels69unr5XerQzzffPLlkJjjXTkLgHoI5eqhWhQoeRVOQ_6dWKU2qbXDVnH8HMdS7kp_ymVIANfeaXU-Py_SAd-A_8BKj1sQRvKXZo9qIEhUGtWRAwO8TdiZ9z0m1vHnJinFql/s628/momdadmoseley.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="466" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisl7Rgh24OVWxHE7bhSbbkmZ3NUmCsT5fvxao7bs1mUSu2qN1rCp22xXels69unr5XerQzzffPLlkJjjXTkLgHoI5eqhWhQoeRVOQ_6dWKU2qbXDVnH8HMdS7kp_ymVIANfeaXU-Py_SAd-A_8BKj1sQRvKXZo9qIEhUGtWRAwO8TdiZ9z0m1vHnJinFql/w237-h320/momdadmoseley.jpg" width="237" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We loved on her while we were there. We felt she had possibly suffered a stroke as well, and needed a lot more assistance than we realized. She now needed to be fed and every need cared for. The nursing home staff there loved her and was so kind to her. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SvOcL33MnWiH7oVf0-YyuSBGaWh6AMcwFCqU5DXn2rz87b3AmVIzFXVU47vub10puzFje5ZPFdr6BR-RHG7853xw3oaY-HsBc9JXKDKRwtigNeZiOEUZOC0khuAGvCircMPZWr7K115ZT07JADrGsbaqzbdc00fzajH5QVjWSwgZF62YsZ4QMQQdzcxr/s4000/20231022_182641.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SvOcL33MnWiH7oVf0-YyuSBGaWh6AMcwFCqU5DXn2rz87b3AmVIzFXVU47vub10puzFje5ZPFdr6BR-RHG7853xw3oaY-HsBc9JXKDKRwtigNeZiOEUZOC0khuAGvCircMPZWr7K115ZT07JADrGsbaqzbdc00fzajH5QVjWSwgZF62YsZ4QMQQdzcxr/s320/20231022_182641.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It was hard to say goodbye to her, and we promised her as we were leaving, that we would see her at Thanksgiving, which is when we always go to Texas. Each year she looked forward to Thanksgiving family gatherings, but this year, it was not to be. A week later, almost to the hour that we saw her last, she drew her last breath here on earth and began her rest in the arms of Jesus on October 29, 2023. Family and close friends gathered around her as her breathing slowed, singing, and talking to her, telling her how loved she was. I wish we could've been there, but I am thankful for the memories we have made with her through the years. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This has been a difficult year of loss for our family. <br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We lost my precious Gram on December 12, 2022.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My sweet Annie-Girl, my companion dog on all my walking adventures on March 3, 2023 <br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My precious Dad passed unexpectedly on June 9, 2023</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">And now Dan's precious Mom passed away on October 29, 2023. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A lot of loss in this year when I turned 50, but I have much to be thankful for. In each case of our loved ones, they entered into rest with Jesus, their eternal destiny forever in the arms of the One they loved so much. Still, the earthly loss of their presence here on earth has left deep holes in our hearts. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr99a4E5bge6iAXD_4d7oom99avagZhXDw_L_AL8zYFf3-rmJj0_JXa7JB7U-VsoCPhyphenhyphenjEzteeFnNSbXfPDf2YAuNg5F1QBAR1KO9HZZu83688oMxXS_Pr-aBBe_3M5HA8tYmRUO38fQws3sVxM191pa1uH-YYA_bySgmV_4rxzmk84t4YfeUFe9VcAT4/s628/20210411_081153.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr99a4E5bge6iAXD_4d7oom99avagZhXDw_L_AL8zYFf3-rmJj0_JXa7JB7U-VsoCPhyphenhyphenjEzteeFnNSbXfPDf2YAuNg5F1QBAR1KO9HZZu83688oMxXS_Pr-aBBe_3M5HA8tYmRUO38fQws3sVxM191pa1uH-YYA_bySgmV_4rxzmk84t4YfeUFe9VcAT4/w300-h400/20210411_081153.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sharing some pictures through the years of precious memories to us now of Mom Moseley. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS-0C2oR3SHNtJ2d4MQep7uCjEQSxfRxmxuG7kdqAegQTo58yLnujkJT69_JHzL3H9pfuCzLTe92AqSOwqmRTcMtNoFeRAHGaMUKFrJj00gn6LMnyJbwKCo87dsbLqwN8L4Sk6rHAXrwT506LcqDLmQeoPKeiCzUMr7LMCsv-wXmz2lMsUJu7St85kJJR/s668/DSCN1265.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="668" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS-0C2oR3SHNtJ2d4MQep7uCjEQSxfRxmxuG7kdqAegQTo58yLnujkJT69_JHzL3H9pfuCzLTe92AqSOwqmRTcMtNoFeRAHGaMUKFrJj00gn6LMnyJbwKCo87dsbLqwN8L4Sk6rHAXrwT506LcqDLmQeoPKeiCzUMr7LMCsv-wXmz2lMsUJu7St85kJJR/w400-h376/DSCN1265.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All dressed up for a granddaughter's wedding. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykZwhW6rnZ3HFCf-GdK82b1kl4sfPMh71luXK_f2Nv2HvNPu-geS1n6RjFkXQjmVubpItwwOdrWGAdJyIPZvubJ-zRCGF_7lQVpoG9pt6109k_7zV7KxUTijFa8O46Z65vwt-XxxqiC7rhFGEUPC3lrImEUkMFcjK3mhMegkD_Brfy4K3-jB_n1TaXCBg/s837/IMG_0677.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykZwhW6rnZ3HFCf-GdK82b1kl4sfPMh71luXK_f2Nv2HvNPu-geS1n6RjFkXQjmVubpItwwOdrWGAdJyIPZvubJ-zRCGF_7lQVpoG9pt6109k_7zV7KxUTijFa8O46Z65vwt-XxxqiC7rhFGEUPC3lrImEUkMFcjK3mhMegkD_Brfy4K3-jB_n1TaXCBg/w400-h300/IMG_0677.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Dan's parents came to see us in Idaho many years ago, and enjoyed seeing snow! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Lr2P6Pbn4PNLLTLa4N-JalzV_2EeRhTVIlJVxhfIyjRdmR_iQyFtQlPEB2QFQ_muyCffWT5kWyzWPuf2InqzzAviDXDpm3y-uo3Wtmuijv6r1DgtyZeZc3z_Q7jJo-CeJ57b7kcjKxMWjIp2GkXNZLNaG9UyYMzCvw54bqu3EbDm9NAYvDUCRW9RJnb3/s837/20231102_184204.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Lr2P6Pbn4PNLLTLa4N-JalzV_2EeRhTVIlJVxhfIyjRdmR_iQyFtQlPEB2QFQ_muyCffWT5kWyzWPuf2InqzzAviDXDpm3y-uo3Wtmuijv6r1DgtyZeZc3z_Q7jJo-CeJ57b7kcjKxMWjIp2GkXNZLNaG9UyYMzCvw54bqu3EbDm9NAYvDUCRW9RJnb3/w640-h480/20231102_184204.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mom wanted her funeral to be at church, so that is where it was held. It was all so beautiful, and I know she would have been pleased. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZfj60anl6tYSeV_NaGUEDBelHn1kQ2willkHK0RqUgQ9A2UoMXCQrt8eb73mZmLn67CaMKbi05H7K8p4ht2wNhupcF4c1QSMJ27rLLKJjx5FQ24M_YWAWmRbrCzj7GJlaFLeaMxITsQ1J2Q8z9bPaw6g4l67zzQsgumoU_p3A9uuCi0gF9edyt63Bp1G/s657/20231102_213838.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="657" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZfj60anl6tYSeV_NaGUEDBelHn1kQ2willkHK0RqUgQ9A2UoMXCQrt8eb73mZmLn67CaMKbi05H7K8p4ht2wNhupcF4c1QSMJ27rLLKJjx5FQ24M_YWAWmRbrCzj7GJlaFLeaMxITsQ1J2Q8z9bPaw6g4l67zzQsgumoU_p3A9uuCi0gF9edyt63Bp1G/w400-h383/20231102_213838.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All of us after the funeral. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9flmHOKMyjLTy-WeZ3pznlTJu8xLldJMM_0NH3nLkGlqDjo3LnZFi3xq1ntBlhS54RcDKF_8uD3KU4kEDoPtwdQu1iwNRc_h8-_gDdCOFsmudRNxxuA8VlBypul51YY_PFj_ovSjojfFyhGyd_BY9IoA8i8wMbIdS3WyAeLHL5gty0Op7MdtfLFPxZ-v/s738/20231103_111846.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="738" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9flmHOKMyjLTy-WeZ3pznlTJu8xLldJMM_0NH3nLkGlqDjo3LnZFi3xq1ntBlhS54RcDKF_8uD3KU4kEDoPtwdQu1iwNRc_h8-_gDdCOFsmudRNxxuA8VlBypul51YY_PFj_ovSjojfFyhGyd_BY9IoA8i8wMbIdS3WyAeLHL5gty0Op7MdtfLFPxZ-v/w640-h544/20231103_111846.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All of the boys together at the graveside service, which was held the next day. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fmiWmhwIDgi7rwrMWfgfZR-E7dXA1FdZVyEdSXEFmkmhFp7BYGr4iHcus1iiJjmNCj1GOVzV_quoPAZhJtYm5KopVJseMtG_uEhyF7EbP6D6S20zTTzvzFR8p1VTS5k6ZJqp-hZmaYj52_zTDGNtLmQuz_BYDERffa01RplB4T7uHrhEYRU1OHWvxV3j/s942/20231103_112015.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="942" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fmiWmhwIDgi7rwrMWfgfZR-E7dXA1FdZVyEdSXEFmkmhFp7BYGr4iHcus1iiJjmNCj1GOVzV_quoPAZhJtYm5KopVJseMtG_uEhyF7EbP6D6S20zTTzvzFR8p1VTS5k6ZJqp-hZmaYj52_zTDGNtLmQuz_BYDERffa01RplB4T7uHrhEYRU1OHWvxV3j/w640-h426/20231103_112015.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All of the boys and their spouses. One spouse was not able to attend, and we missed her very much. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2qFldaSnalSOFXfMKX32siBqvfo_S02Fz_8B-vtF87H8iPvFZliKtreNulTSN-7TEyUMi4FaIYgm7_g7NpWAAGHTOSdXxDMLlBaZ9pHZTLi3IFv7_hDYobHDEOVkl-nd6A6bf8Ys0CmWTnUIu8tvnY3i_nJzmvrDwG33LumB6RWMkCLABdkpB854a8mL/s837/20231103_113815.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2qFldaSnalSOFXfMKX32siBqvfo_S02Fz_8B-vtF87H8iPvFZliKtreNulTSN-7TEyUMi4FaIYgm7_g7NpWAAGHTOSdXxDMLlBaZ9pHZTLi3IFv7_hDYobHDEOVkl-nd6A6bf8Ys0CmWTnUIu8tvnY3i_nJzmvrDwG33LumB6RWMkCLABdkpB854a8mL/w640-h480/20231103_113815.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mom's casket with the beautiful flowers on it. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I wrote some thoughts to share at the funeral for my precious Mother-in-Love, however, because her service was held at the church, and she wanted more of a church service, it was decided that I would share my thoughts about her at the gravesite. Here is the video of that tribute to her life. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1iIM19BAUTw" width="320" youtube-src-id="1iIM19BAUTw"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Memories of Edna Moseley </span></u></b></div></b><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma</span></u></b></div></b><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></u></b></div></b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;">Proverbs
31:10 </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;">“Who can find a virtuous woman? </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;">For her price is far above rubies”</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">If
ever there was a woman whose life embodied virtue, Edna Mae Moseley was that
woman. Born in a tent to a family who was working in the fields of Brady,
Texas, from an early life hard work was part of her existence. As a 16-year-old child, she was diagnosed
with leukemia and was not expected to live.
She cried out to the Lord and was miraculously healed – and cancer never
returned to her body. From this
experience with the Lord, her faith in Jesus never wavered. Countless times throughout her life, the Hand
of the Lord touched, healed, protected, comforted, and kept her.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Married
to Calvin Moseley at the age of 18 on November 26, 1960, 5 boys soon completed
the family – CA, David, Paul, Mark, and Dan.
Edna loved and cared for her family with every ounce of her being. As
her own parents grew frail, she cared for them too. Edna worked long hours as
an aide to the elderly to help support her family. She made their home a welcoming place, and at
mealtimes, a mountain of food always seemed to make its way to the table. Edna loved her family and served them with
all she had to give – and more. Her love
for the Lord was evident to all who knew her.
Faithful to church, in ministering to those in care homes by fixing hair
and visiting them, to baking her amazing banana bread and homemade bread for
any function – whether family or church.
She and Calvin bought an old farmhouse, and it became a special delight
for her to renovate this house and make it a home that all of us loved so
much. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I
first met Edna in 1995 when Dan and I met, and then married. She became a second mother to me, and I
became one of her 5 daughters married into the family – and she loved and
cherished all 5 of her son’s wives as her own daughters. So many memories through the years were made
– many of them in the kitchen preparing and serving food for family
gatherings. We loved to visit thrift and
antique stores together – her love of all things old and her knowledge of
antiques taught me so much.</div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">But
the greatest lesson of all I learned from her was to love the Lord, serve Him
with all your heart, and love and serve your family. Edna’s love for her family was strong – she
made many sacrifices – most of which only the Lord really knows – to ensure her
family had all their needs met. Edna
cared for Calvin – a man who often caused much concern in her life. Most women
today would not endure the things she did, but she remained faithful and loving
through it all.</div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Edna
left a legacy for us all to remember and embrace her principles in our own
lives. She loved the Lord with every
ounce of her being. She read her Bible
faithfully, and prayed constantly – a prayer warrior like no other! She gave
herself, her time, and her money faithfully to the church. She never failed to speak the truth, and
especially of her strong convictions about faithful Christian living. All who knew her – knew she believed in Jesus
and her life embodied that too. Her
dress and hair were always done with care, and she made great effort to take
care of herself, her family, and her home.
She never missed an opportunity to be at church, even when her health
deteriorated due to diabetes, which kept her in the River Hills Nursing Home
for 12 years. She began her struggle with diabetes in her 40s with endless
pokes and jabs for 40 years – never complaining about why, but always trusting
that the Lord would heal her. She
endured so much suffering in so many areas of her life, but she never lost her
faith in Jesus. </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">She
left all of us large shoes to fill. Her
presence here in this life is gone – she is at rest with Jesus now. No more pain and suffering, but an eternal
healing of rest and peace is hers. The
loss of her presence on earth hurts more than words can convey, but the legacy
that she left us will live on in each of our hearts. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">She
was the embodiment of the woman described in Proverbs 31. Vs 15 “She riseth
while it is yet night and gives meat to her household.” Vs 20 “She stretches
out her hand to the poor.” Vs 25
“Strength and honor are her clothing”, Vs 26 “She openeth her mouth with wisdom
and in her tongue is the law of kindness” Vs 27 “She looks well to the ways of
her household and eateth not the bread of idleness. Vs 28 “Her children arise up and call her
blessed.” Vs 29 “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them
all.” Vs 30 “A woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.” </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Edna,
known also as Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma and Sister in Christ – was a woman
who lived her life for the Lord and for her family. Her legacy lives on even as she has begun her
eternal rest and reward with Jesus. She
was a woman who feared, loved, and lived for the Lord and her family. </div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">May
the life she lived be treasured in each heart of those of you who knew her –
keep your heart pure and undefiled before the Lord – and remember she has
prayed for each of you here – and eternity awaits for all of us to join her in
that heavenly reunion on those golden streets of glory.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I am so thankful for the blessings of the Lord that allowed me to have such a special Mother-in-Love in my life. I will always be grateful for the memories we made through the years. Her loss on earth has left a big hole in our lives, and we will be navigating that for many years to come. But how blessed we are to have had her with us for 80 years - almost 81 (her birthday would have been December 31). I hope the tribute to her life will inspire you - as it has me - to live my life for the Lord and for my family. These are the things that endure and will last for all eternity. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Many blessings to all of you today! </div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-89146617660053699432023-10-11T23:32:00.009-07:002023-10-11T23:35:05.159-07:00Fall Colors - Beyond The Sunset<p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I continue to be amazed at the length of Fall's season this year! My harvest is almost over, as the cold weather (30s and 40s at night) has really slowed growth. Yet I still have zucchini, green beans, and tomatoes growing in the garden! We had a light frost about a week ago, where temps got down to about 29 degrees in my garden. However, I really think having the shower curtains hung where the frost breeze can't hit my plants has made a huge difference. I still have blooming flowers, zucchini growing, and green beans too! I am giving the Lord praise for this bountiful harvest! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOX0ojglR_SFr1ojuN9gqCy79bTNL0UznUJQJ8othMFAVXExjTJoTGIEilFUDzNQQ0TJdBrlT7hsQYMZqq3d8u5qEZqVPLm1m2ywgEi9LOfUTdEfYiPsyzJdWtkoqL40wLFgVaXLBD4t_dg2bDjpVwQpTUXWU8PSQJHvvlfnf7WFolndl4P8IWuAnm5sS/s628/20230930_093712.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOX0ojglR_SFr1ojuN9gqCy79bTNL0UznUJQJ8othMFAVXExjTJoTGIEilFUDzNQQ0TJdBrlT7hsQYMZqq3d8u5qEZqVPLm1m2ywgEi9LOfUTdEfYiPsyzJdWtkoqL40wLFgVaXLBD4t_dg2bDjpVwQpTUXWU8PSQJHvvlfnf7WFolndl4P8IWuAnm5sS/w480-h640/20230930_093712.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I picked this bouquet the night before the expected freeze. Thankfully, with the help of my hanging shower curtains, the frost just nipped the leaves, and everything is still alive! I'm so grateful! <br /><br /><br /></span><span><a name='more'></a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ktsXGb1RKEgvOJ4onbOdkpTpXLTKc7MklOyL6D84hHR2zRqOjpouBSHP_nGjUMQ46L0SkBAH48VZ6cjwME_0JpR1HU2LCL1d4UyI5FHF-WF6BYCx-K_vLyFqgphzIIMHByCRpTSQhiEBfvHERQS2YGW_J5GUqmAtCIFnpDunANqpVEauuZWrtSuI0w_p/s837/20230930_163652.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ktsXGb1RKEgvOJ4onbOdkpTpXLTKc7MklOyL6D84hHR2zRqOjpouBSHP_nGjUMQ46L0SkBAH48VZ6cjwME_0JpR1HU2LCL1d4UyI5FHF-WF6BYCx-K_vLyFqgphzIIMHByCRpTSQhiEBfvHERQS2YGW_J5GUqmAtCIFnpDunANqpVEauuZWrtSuI0w_p/w640-h480/20230930_163652.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My Brandywine tomatoes have been stars this year! <br />They have been as big as my hand! Lots of green tomatoes ripening still... <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-54HctPw_q0udSUic3oUaYOJLhixqtoHzW4Cg-CNasOYRMRjvmzELrtYBBpAloF8TEVehbcv4ZETzqAh2p1EKo0n4b8g89BoqAWHBDfj8w0MJaGqTm_06XFA-iTTN6t_3O26x2wNZ3QJAcGawy_2Jp6htjfnVvWbbGG4d8BbBnyHYXiquZt0WzFemyFkK/s628/20230930_163705.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-54HctPw_q0udSUic3oUaYOJLhixqtoHzW4Cg-CNasOYRMRjvmzELrtYBBpAloF8TEVehbcv4ZETzqAh2p1EKo0n4b8g89BoqAWHBDfj8w0MJaGqTm_06XFA-iTTN6t_3O26x2wNZ3QJAcGawy_2Jp6htjfnVvWbbGG4d8BbBnyHYXiquZt0WzFemyFkK/w480-h640/20230930_163705.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My zucchini has been amazing this year as well. They are a large variety that offers lots of flesh, and few seeds, while getting huge! I saved these seeds from last year, it is an heirloom variety with Baker's Seed Company. This is the variety that is STILL producing in my garden (in spite of the freeze, nipped leaves, and cold weather!) <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyaScZW973DgLuP2eJZKu1rODTmcET_0hrrERycRquyVrzUZu6-3873-eKDqDBnZKH8vNVZBThHL3FJHmMWmYWYHflvsArYh554UjaKDGqp73gMK8DDEimlEdmKYCyfzwuCOxeCse_rzjiow4Sp7Bky6gW9VIBPn2QdT1prPP0Zop_idxnpCi6L3z496Zk/s628/20231001_075033.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyaScZW973DgLuP2eJZKu1rODTmcET_0hrrERycRquyVrzUZu6-3873-eKDqDBnZKH8vNVZBThHL3FJHmMWmYWYHflvsArYh554UjaKDGqp73gMK8DDEimlEdmKYCyfzwuCOxeCse_rzjiow4Sp7Bky6gW9VIBPn2QdT1prPP0Zop_idxnpCi6L3z496Zk/w480-h640/20231001_075033.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Frost on my tomato leaves - however, these tomatoes are still alive. The leaves burned a bit, but are still green. I'm quite happy overall that we have made it almost to the middle of October without a killing frost (down in the low 20s). <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGykoJuVGV3WnLm8DuL0WfHmagcUHNATSG8izJePYaWX41rBPVMkGIpr850AwJCM-8SAavrzo852uddOcIEmNAMwe2Dw1WJbbI-cpAygNIEjzJz8_Slm8e3U-n9fMt2fhNerMnYcX1uiD-Ma4mZ8LKzBvn2d255WtJjYQmpswWshRa3nN7nelVYSWETWE/s628/20231001_192922.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGykoJuVGV3WnLm8DuL0WfHmagcUHNATSG8izJePYaWX41rBPVMkGIpr850AwJCM-8SAavrzo852uddOcIEmNAMwe2Dw1WJbbI-cpAygNIEjzJz8_Slm8e3U-n9fMt2fhNerMnYcX1uiD-Ma4mZ8LKzBvn2d255WtJjYQmpswWshRa3nN7nelVYSWETWE/w480-h640/20231001_192922.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">These cooler days mean special memories made around our bonfire pit! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtIPG8i4xkgP08M31qtYdN35Hel9mZDZMZjgPhWoNPGXXxxgIm2XLD-d17fcNGDwOtnlUReQ4K_FY9TievpYOFqPqWqPyGzFXvx4KAzupzWeKYLWJDsG6fGEGv8EFk3uEG6XLKoy-kVAnrohqxs0BqHukhi7hK91UaBCrg_4o7-4l7f4aQaHgn6zocgbs/s628/20231002_222849.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtIPG8i4xkgP08M31qtYdN35Hel9mZDZMZjgPhWoNPGXXxxgIm2XLD-d17fcNGDwOtnlUReQ4K_FY9TievpYOFqPqWqPyGzFXvx4KAzupzWeKYLWJDsG6fGEGv8EFk3uEG6XLKoy-kVAnrohqxs0BqHukhi7hK91UaBCrg_4o7-4l7f4aQaHgn6zocgbs/w480-h640/20231002_222849.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Our "Little Girl" loves to sleep in my lap before bedtime or when I drink my morning coffee. Her position is so hilarious to see! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbm2HJ_HmxGOVpV2cTOa2jxRCO28Zct_2A4n2eUNbcz8I4xty2Fc5Zh6gCzyP4o7HnrxBA9ha4q4oXzxR_fC4pm54moXWyFCAYQQS5TKEPkQEHhMxceIQO49qd5GQffP45FmSd66O0maL6SvcudhDN0qZL2cCsXOs3hAWBvilAa1refbM2t4ItJLROG7_/s628/20231003_102038.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbm2HJ_HmxGOVpV2cTOa2jxRCO28Zct_2A4n2eUNbcz8I4xty2Fc5Zh6gCzyP4o7HnrxBA9ha4q4oXzxR_fC4pm54moXWyFCAYQQS5TKEPkQEHhMxceIQO49qd5GQffP45FmSd66O0maL6SvcudhDN0qZL2cCsXOs3hAWBvilAa1refbM2t4ItJLROG7_/w480-h640/20231003_102038.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Continuing on our low-carb way of life - I made a salad recently that was keto-approved. I used broccoli, cauliflower, a red onion, two pears, bacon, and cheese, adding a sour cream dressing with a bit of stevia in it to sweeten. Yes, it was delicious! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnZoqF6X-RhQ2sBZF93gAcLx5JnenaiOoiIgLjHeEuIZRXuOMVxb5_nXnEGauW360QjdswbXeARBKVKXFshn8nLPJElz8sl1vGvgZs8q4WuCfFFiadPTYFfFYgHNc0R6qgC7Wh8cT6wWN28t1BXHOKBIo7quTlAyn-_Oai2TdY5_k6phjKRWjNCuq7mNV/s837/20231003_173356.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnZoqF6X-RhQ2sBZF93gAcLx5JnenaiOoiIgLjHeEuIZRXuOMVxb5_nXnEGauW360QjdswbXeARBKVKXFshn8nLPJElz8sl1vGvgZs8q4WuCfFFiadPTYFfFYgHNc0R6qgC7Wh8cT6wWN28t1BXHOKBIo7quTlAyn-_Oai2TdY5_k6phjKRWjNCuq7mNV/w640-h480/20231003_173356.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My greenhouse with an abundance of tomatoes slowly ripening in it. This has been a very bad year for mice in our area - it seems like everyone is talking about it. They just scurry when I walk into the garden, and even with two cats who daily bring in dead mice, we are still being overrun. Our neighbors are saying the same. Yesterday I went to check on my tomatoes, and all the ripe ones, plus many of the green tomatoes had been eaten by the mice! So I've had to box all the tomatoes and bring them into my porch area. You can see I have a bucket trap in there - I caught a few in the beginning, but apparently, the word is out, and they are avoiding it now. I hesitate to use poison because of the cats. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-31dEk1Oa0_nYuii-S_hlDA5SXPlti4dp-6vSJvWGGYOEyll3zhAQ6CUhzhc1vqdbR4M5b6_Nsfwsks0AuYhjuztIMj4e9oa7cS-KSrslNLq8OLJHRMIBgiUqueyWcgZceb6MO0umRMn_aRHSbkNpFoq1Ke2Q8n0LZBZ3xJTwQT9nf59nOlachyphenhyphenHSvqD/s837/20231005_183221.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-31dEk1Oa0_nYuii-S_hlDA5SXPlti4dp-6vSJvWGGYOEyll3zhAQ6CUhzhc1vqdbR4M5b6_Nsfwsks0AuYhjuztIMj4e9oa7cS-KSrslNLq8OLJHRMIBgiUqueyWcgZceb6MO0umRMn_aRHSbkNpFoq1Ke2Q8n0LZBZ3xJTwQT9nf59nOlachyphenhyphenHSvqD/w640-h480/20231005_183221.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Part of my potato harvest - they are sitting out to dry before I will store them for winter use. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVwzict_f0HYzI0IzSdIY62VMUthmlBl8Uh8vK5ZERKFs1u-h-260MkpbdSEkHpc2LCNQj6hNowkrvWmljXfL-Opk1wAslTEoJaA1jeS7X4MDkVV9D6wOY0k9HOScXmOZT8_9ItrGAWg3Dasa1_ljubOx4iImdOuUScjU0p9kZBIe6vRgHUyC_1CpNgVl/s628/20231007_182840.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVwzict_f0HYzI0IzSdIY62VMUthmlBl8Uh8vK5ZERKFs1u-h-260MkpbdSEkHpc2LCNQj6hNowkrvWmljXfL-Opk1wAslTEoJaA1jeS7X4MDkVV9D6wOY0k9HOScXmOZT8_9ItrGAWg3Dasa1_ljubOx4iImdOuUScjU0p9kZBIe6vRgHUyC_1CpNgVl/w480-h640/20231007_182840.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My husband recently celebrated his birthday - we switched his candles around, and that made him happy! How did we all get this old? Half a century sounds old! {smiles} <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobzZzVxUUCETQ1ZoMuDcnpPTiV_n3MtNdTFTM11HZ6FQDXLgTRAMSA-07UHvadGvQutVtXYuu7Jm0HOGf86IDQ0a6MIgOElIToR_gpFi79lzN1HIoez68jkWM9FkSsFpx1mFqnqJevAF5dp2hj86QN2-SQZnUAoNhDv1JGIJSNrj9LeRU5ReNPXBOkgBy/s837/20231007_183041.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobzZzVxUUCETQ1ZoMuDcnpPTiV_n3MtNdTFTM11HZ6FQDXLgTRAMSA-07UHvadGvQutVtXYuu7Jm0HOGf86IDQ0a6MIgOElIToR_gpFi79lzN1HIoez68jkWM9FkSsFpx1mFqnqJevAF5dp2hj86QN2-SQZnUAoNhDv1JGIJSNrj9LeRU5ReNPXBOkgBy/w640-h480/20231007_183041.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We enjoyed a bonfire and a wonderful meal at a friend's house for Dan's birthday. We just love their firepit, and we have plans to make one for our backyard! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_QN73D2Po5-cPx7JcdxWbYwp7Vr0dRV_2yM_1M0Qj57TREvZYe4cdONqjSyx6aOqy77BcfJcLDDoPPRLIccwE9wLZqeWu1KFuapj7Od1WBXBRGzbLPTRBShBcECZrpsXnkjHaurhdi5-GG69kOdRSxNfLU0BuooTdEiu6uEWQRK0m17kDvszS40cbHk5/s628/20231008_164954.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_QN73D2Po5-cPx7JcdxWbYwp7Vr0dRV_2yM_1M0Qj57TREvZYe4cdONqjSyx6aOqy77BcfJcLDDoPPRLIccwE9wLZqeWu1KFuapj7Od1WBXBRGzbLPTRBShBcECZrpsXnkjHaurhdi5-GG69kOdRSxNfLU0BuooTdEiu6uEWQRK0m17kDvszS40cbHk5/w480-h640/20231008_164954.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We took a ride on Sunday afternoon on our quads - oh it was gorgeous! <br />Fall colors abounded in every view! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCowleZdV-g7sWcXy1nBreAEZcc9zmIsPjkGqtk_DcBL46ts_AwcnvAhT_cI8Ekoz6UklOsVet1NQQsOSpvh2mRe7UBX-sGCGqajmVyS3bD-k0b5Sbwda3FEQPk0jYLxflZ5SE31p8o1fBNyHg72tIcaD7CvqEDx8-4g4wCYHfL0jtSVF6ngB99H-plLg/s837/PSX_20231009_071430.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCowleZdV-g7sWcXy1nBreAEZcc9zmIsPjkGqtk_DcBL46ts_AwcnvAhT_cI8Ekoz6UklOsVet1NQQsOSpvh2mRe7UBX-sGCGqajmVyS3bD-k0b5Sbwda3FEQPk0jYLxflZ5SE31p8o1fBNyHg72tIcaD7CvqEDx8-4g4wCYHfL0jtSVF6ngB99H-plLg/w640-h480/PSX_20231009_071430.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The setting sun over the western mountains... my heart sighs in great contentment to be in this place, soaking up God's gift to us. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95Io3ZrSlr9q7ANHeWw9yc0G7afcGqwEKeBO1nRN9PhSj7ci0K89z0W5PYAdH30lFrlph7QWHDudGf2-kEE66VSBRpqSQvM4eh34OUVVAObILK-2mu5O52Mo-JTTottxR5JIxG9xt5Jgz9_eTtTY-FLEMbDIFEAu0vOE6gMAwJBI4jg7ik3LltX-jJ4uP/s837/20231008_174941.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95Io3ZrSlr9q7ANHeWw9yc0G7afcGqwEKeBO1nRN9PhSj7ci0K89z0W5PYAdH30lFrlph7QWHDudGf2-kEE66VSBRpqSQvM4eh34OUVVAObILK-2mu5O52Mo-JTTottxR5JIxG9xt5Jgz9_eTtTY-FLEMbDIFEAu0vOE6gMAwJBI4jg7ik3LltX-jJ4uP/w640-h480/20231008_174941.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">One of the viewpoints on our ride... glorious! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdm9XhRAeoNtF81MA7NnRzgPNBB2UAP6F_MYthEERAUov3CevY6_MxKotHLYLI7qoz0vlaVKBTK5mDqjsT5izOz64X5fK8wHauSXWhzWOeW35BUQhDYi-QfE7aFbuPH2eCRykq-avEe62jheny1iPyblAJz4nTut-9PXEDkeOJjlGSzBlq28IzmlQAqYl/s837/20231009_135008.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdm9XhRAeoNtF81MA7NnRzgPNBB2UAP6F_MYthEERAUov3CevY6_MxKotHLYLI7qoz0vlaVKBTK5mDqjsT5izOz64X5fK8wHauSXWhzWOeW35BUQhDYi-QfE7aFbuPH2eCRykq-avEe62jheny1iPyblAJz4nTut-9PXEDkeOJjlGSzBlq28IzmlQAqYl/w640-h480/20231009_135008.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We gathered elderberries on our quad ride, and I was busy all day Monday making elderberry syrup. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3bmhVQ3mp3HrpkxODNpL1SH-SarilmSAiyWkvic1f5d4AvqUK9_4RxOPN8CE9bMy4_sq5FY5yfdkRP9ia0eaKDwn3u9armuvzuYVxXKc1XT04KiRWMdYdtkfuqttG6LSyxOAGD1WP4SD1FgR9NXdKfR4KWaRhggee9jDHPGW1kqYOfeLoY78AIeNOnra/s837/20231009_183357.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3bmhVQ3mp3HrpkxODNpL1SH-SarilmSAiyWkvic1f5d4AvqUK9_4RxOPN8CE9bMy4_sq5FY5yfdkRP9ia0eaKDwn3u9armuvzuYVxXKc1XT04KiRWMdYdtkfuqttG6LSyxOAGD1WP4SD1FgR9NXdKfR4KWaRhggee9jDHPGW1kqYOfeLoY78AIeNOnra/w640-h480/20231009_183357.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">We did a taste test, and oh my, it was wonderful! This is an immune support whenever flu/cold bugs are moving around. This is the recipe I used: <br /><br />Elderberry Syrup<br />6 cups washed elderberries (stems and leaves removed)<br />6 cups water<br />2 cups sugar<br />2 sticks cinnamon<br />1 tsp vanilla<br /><br />Mix elderberries and water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer under a boil for an hour. Turn the heat off and let sit for 30 minutes. Strain the elderberries. Clean the stockpot, and pour the strained elderberry mixture back into it. Add sugar, cinnamon and vanilla. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Pour into sterilized pint-size jars, and process according to standard water bath guidelines. <br /><br />Because we are 2000+ feet above sea level, I process mine for 15 minutes in a water bath canner and then let them sit for 24 hours. After 24 hours I remove the bands, wash off the jars, label, and store. I am very thankful for this natural immune blessing that we will be able to use in the upcoming winter months. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdBMBrmln9s2oBAJpF8DXnSxoKlekEm3u5uXfTcgEYMc5smMs_h22fS_9WkPvIfoBcN1ieu0IbFr_eZ37ZUdu70dbcMN6_hhoDl3S20triv0jqx-Uqm8DlFdMCjO3pt5OOERkcnoRqSUKbOG5fzmZ0J_Mj3nv2JB1CEv3cduJMjrvd2lzBNt0BN0elmuG/s837/PSX_20231005_112205.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdBMBrmln9s2oBAJpF8DXnSxoKlekEm3u5uXfTcgEYMc5smMs_h22fS_9WkPvIfoBcN1ieu0IbFr_eZ37ZUdu70dbcMN6_hhoDl3S20triv0jqx-Uqm8DlFdMCjO3pt5OOERkcnoRqSUKbOG5fzmZ0J_Mj3nv2JB1CEv3cduJMjrvd2lzBNt0BN0elmuG/w640-h480/PSX_20231005_112205.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I took this picture last week as the setting sun spread such glorious colors over our local dam. The magnificence of God's palette never ceases to amaze me! I took a video of the mesmerizing scene as I sat and watched it, and have made it into a music video which I am sharing below. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="323" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pDRnSu3KviE" width="389" youtube-src-id="pDRnSu3KviE"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I hope you enjoy the video, and that your heart is encouraged that someday heaven will be a beautiful place that we will never have to leave. I shared this verse at the end of the video... </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Revelation 21:5</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">And God shall wipe away </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">all tears from their eyes; </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">and there shall be no more death, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">neither sorrow nor crying, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">neither shall there be any more pain: </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">for the former things are passed away. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">In light of all the world events that are taking place - sorrow, unbelievable tragedy, heartache, and trauma beyond what we can comprehend - my heart is aching for those who weep, whose lives will never be the same. My prayers continue moment by moment for the needs of those with hearts broken by unspeakable tragedy and trauma. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">In light of the many questions about the current events that are happening - my heart has been led to Zechariah 14. If you have questions or wonder about the events taking place in the Middle East - take a moment to read this chapter. It brings a lot of clarity into the situation and gives us hope beyond what we can see and understand now. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">As I watched the beautiful sunset unfold in front of my eyes this week, the colors were bright and glorious but then began to fade, and darkness slipped into their place. Someday though, the sunset will never fade, sadness will never have its place in our hearts, and our eternal joy will be found complete in our rest with Him. I look forward to that day, beyond the sunset, O eternal joy! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Keep your eyes on the Lord, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Let not your hearts be troubled, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Pray without ceasing, and</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Look up, for our Redeemer draweth nigh! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-78359373578702882712023-10-03T12:06:00.000-07:002023-10-03T12:06:05.113-07:00A Birthday Milestone! Half a Century ! <p>I celebrated a birthday milestone in September... 50 years! It's been a wonderful month celebrating my birthday! We celebrated at a local state park with family and friends, and it was a very special day for me! I don't feel any different, but it was wonderful to visit with our family and friends! </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: "Times New Roman"; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzwwnYOWj2mXIwY9TtAostk3vRGtqMEjSyCKiB00Ps_jSq49fvm8e0DWxQB1Qs9VWT4JvKNSI8z3sOBc6oN4r7vkdOFT2yZhX99hBHk4OKeXpIZkJXMLzWZrIeE5pfhKpNAzzrDRkm-7o-M1Xiucr2tfkxpxLiPpdWQVRZ1qPmkRQLjuAezAyD_tzYeS4/s837/20230910_161138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzwwnYOWj2mXIwY9TtAostk3vRGtqMEjSyCKiB00Ps_jSq49fvm8e0DWxQB1Qs9VWT4JvKNSI8z3sOBc6oN4r7vkdOFT2yZhX99hBHk4OKeXpIZkJXMLzWZrIeE5pfhKpNAzzrDRkm-7o-M1Xiucr2tfkxpxLiPpdWQVRZ1qPmkRQLjuAezAyD_tzYeS4/w400-h300/20230910_161138.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 50 years to me! <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZFZl5FTblLkEVt3BfWRnpv79kyRBh-1oXrpvzj40-WZOQWEij1Y7S_aCTvECIjusMZ9-oXMFkP9Jh_t1QRClqZ9cn2i1OMhZxxBV8s_fPzaD7KAl9J-xAEkMQSIfd5NNMWg8rrRDco7tPhq0IOA-yGzipp5BpVmu-hTDoQmpkVko7fWNxZTSMayKed3V/s628/20230910_141300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZFZl5FTblLkEVt3BfWRnpv79kyRBh-1oXrpvzj40-WZOQWEij1Y7S_aCTvECIjusMZ9-oXMFkP9Jh_t1QRClqZ9cn2i1OMhZxxBV8s_fPzaD7KAl9J-xAEkMQSIfd5NNMWg8rrRDco7tPhq0IOA-yGzipp5BpVmu-hTDoQmpkVko7fWNxZTSMayKed3V/w300-h400/20230910_141300.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So hard to believe that I have reached the milestone of 50 years - although I have told everyone, <br />I don't feel any different! God's goodness is so good to me, day after day! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCH4TLN7jHvRroni68-FXFjyd9GVcPVpuHYtcpXvYgdlsecDGuYFJT0KJFNiRTHCMLvTSTw9XS97Y8X2zosW0FnDTfL0R51L79cZxRAckyD0QSq0k5H03_9KtUPRxXhqIiwTFujgavk8ow8JW1I4fpvOqw-huAGxCXP1kQWZhMpcgKI9385CURpgwXU5l1/s837/20230911_165953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCH4TLN7jHvRroni68-FXFjyd9GVcPVpuHYtcpXvYgdlsecDGuYFJT0KJFNiRTHCMLvTSTw9XS97Y8X2zosW0FnDTfL0R51L79cZxRAckyD0QSq0k5H03_9KtUPRxXhqIiwTFujgavk8ow8JW1I4fpvOqw-huAGxCXP1kQWZhMpcgKI9385CURpgwXU5l1/w640-h480/20230911_165953.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garden has been full of bounty this year! Tomatoes are in abundance! I've lost count of how many jars of tomatoes I've canned into salsa, sauce, and juice! <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhByfch5a745LpFJ2yjcAU7_tzh6_OORxAU5V9t9MmRn35lVoVn_qnggJAPyOp1J6DRT9IGn66XH1RHGqR6HoKMyJmPY02sEY8o4kTv0QXO91wrRou3K5e406NQ-iSW7DU6WGNQAMnetiSDgTZBqT8CaiXyWxpE7aA7469KZunif7IHclICKqtM_CbJdzlf/s628/20230912_170923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhByfch5a745LpFJ2yjcAU7_tzh6_OORxAU5V9t9MmRn35lVoVn_qnggJAPyOp1J6DRT9IGn66XH1RHGqR6HoKMyJmPY02sEY8o4kTv0QXO91wrRou3K5e406NQ-iSW7DU6WGNQAMnetiSDgTZBqT8CaiXyWxpE7aA7469KZunif7IHclICKqtM_CbJdzlf/w480-h640/20230912_170923.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love to freeze my zucchini - I use it through the winter in soups, stews, and casseroles. I blanch the zucchini after either slicing or shredding it, do a cold water bath, drain, and then place it in freezable ziplock bags, which I freeze laying flat. This makes an incredibly easy way throughout the winter to add them to spaghetti sauce, soups, and casseroles. I don't like to let anything go to waste! <br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRbQHpwpOgTFjZ0nHxMi3tQ7rG5nZS2nqjHfvKpB-uTSuk5qpqC6qL74kOcdAp273Zp8nDJozUMzwg5XEgVyBSW2tHFG9sSEMFzRDodeJnBvHQyaY-retNcJvIHFpK2kdOXgcnzbg8_ukIJarF7Xb3DozYvWro6Tn3bnLDKSakLSlaMd71PXE_6soPSrL/s628/20230927_150730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRbQHpwpOgTFjZ0nHxMi3tQ7rG5nZS2nqjHfvKpB-uTSuk5qpqC6qL74kOcdAp273Zp8nDJozUMzwg5XEgVyBSW2tHFG9sSEMFzRDodeJnBvHQyaY-retNcJvIHFpK2kdOXgcnzbg8_ukIJarF7Xb3DozYvWro6Tn3bnLDKSakLSlaMd71PXE_6soPSrL/w480-h640/20230927_150730.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband and I are following the low-carb eating as much as possible. So, we enjoy soup now, without potatoes. Let me tell you, soup is just not the same without potato in it! But, with all the fresh garden veggies in our soup, we have learned to really enjoy soup. This chicken soup has all these veggies from my garden: carrots, zucchini, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli... I added 1 small container of cream cheese spread, and it just blends all the flavors together so beautifully! <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfkp8DWyyzerHB3jRMkaGdPvjAvOB0yZK2ZLlFoPhY16EkZHuTfuWzfneGUFSdNMc9dJlu4sZGPEKIaHTRko0xXX0MMXyNxWl2eZat-YsclZM0cjkGeoLiTuk80om1GnQ18D6kokT9tWwFCzo8QzNaWmnjCiIG1viLHjuUNQj7GnGH0aSAiu4vwyZ6JIc/s942/IMG_8500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="942" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfkp8DWyyzerHB3jRMkaGdPvjAvOB0yZK2ZLlFoPhY16EkZHuTfuWzfneGUFSdNMc9dJlu4sZGPEKIaHTRko0xXX0MMXyNxWl2eZat-YsclZM0cjkGeoLiTuk80om1GnQ18D6kokT9tWwFCzo8QzNaWmnjCiIG1viLHjuUNQj7GnGH0aSAiu4vwyZ6JIc/w640-h426/IMG_8500.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We went on a weekend camping trip about an hour north of where we live. It was marvelous because we have finally gotten some rain, and we were able to have a campfire! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfkp8DWyyzerHB3jRMkaGdPvjAvOB0yZK2ZLlFoPhY16EkZHuTfuWzfneGUFSdNMc9dJlu4sZGPEKIaHTRko0xXX0MMXyNxWl2eZat-YsclZM0cjkGeoLiTuk80om1GnQ18D6kokT9tWwFCzo8QzNaWmnjCiIG1viLHjuUNQj7GnGH0aSAiu4vwyZ6JIc/s942/IMG_8500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyB-CaG5TDiLzLuLABSOGXxE4M8NRIArBAcsba3gQGx_rDYlp-zj_RnWDkrBN4vCLBgLd3zrcMNj34LrM8P6wmbsY5VioloZgziaLc8v0wuS-TuqvA-TLRJZUUgzZ_ECExUmjw5PaBlWrMDeRw3snn3M2KrQ9Z0OLKjXtHovhZ4PfY89t0EOfvhWv8Ky0/s1200/_MG_8542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="1200" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyB-CaG5TDiLzLuLABSOGXxE4M8NRIArBAcsba3gQGx_rDYlp-zj_RnWDkrBN4vCLBgLd3zrcMNj34LrM8P6wmbsY5VioloZgziaLc8v0wuS-TuqvA-TLRJZUUgzZ_ECExUmjw5PaBlWrMDeRw3snn3M2KrQ9Z0OLKjXtHovhZ4PfY89t0EOfvhWv8Ky0/w640-h294/_MG_8542.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We "bush-camped" alongside a roaring creek, and it was truly a special getaway. The beauty of the creek and the music of its waters was speaking my soul's language of love! <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeS9J2L0UigAYeUiANxWq_x_LtvfJ-vBF85jjOGUEErZVIpzoi1zKFKE-dCGDObc1KNJzk6H3n-TGemR5l_WcSqCi7fLgxow2vMjM5J7xOJ05hkTP5VuScd5jdAi7iEpztFe-32wzVFQO_gwVv5tpD_1L88aWp9MFFls_2sRSlnA7mK09yqu_inf6Sp8CD/s942/_MG_8541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="942" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeS9J2L0UigAYeUiANxWq_x_LtvfJ-vBF85jjOGUEErZVIpzoi1zKFKE-dCGDObc1KNJzk6H3n-TGemR5l_WcSqCi7fLgxow2vMjM5J7xOJ05hkTP5VuScd5jdAi7iEpztFe-32wzVFQO_gwVv5tpD_1L88aWp9MFFls_2sRSlnA7mK09yqu_inf6Sp8CD/w640-h426/_MG_8541.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We camp with no facilities, bring all our own water, etc. We were camping in grizzly country but saw no wildlife of any kind other than a deer and her fawn. <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwfuLS736wuP01Obv9j33F_ePaAbcmpdp87ALcK_Nor9C63jPV24C_6WS7UuTOtOgSorIxXnVSD5kmM0fj5HOJ4h2It_uLxfDTtbxZ5ZvC-DSw-aYMvdBT57Ao_-SqL_jVOTsL1JKSpGgjJpUF7a2-SsTooWja4sm12ThpsYFQ6WIindPa5Lb_8FDgBf-/s942/_MG_8540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="942" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwfuLS736wuP01Obv9j33F_ePaAbcmpdp87ALcK_Nor9C63jPV24C_6WS7UuTOtOgSorIxXnVSD5kmM0fj5HOJ4h2It_uLxfDTtbxZ5ZvC-DSw-aYMvdBT57Ao_-SqL_jVOTsL1JKSpGgjJpUF7a2-SsTooWja4sm12ThpsYFQ6WIindPa5Lb_8FDgBf-/w640-h426/_MG_8540.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunlight danced across the shadows of the creek, filling the air with its late summer warmth. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DGdI-rWUWXD-O0P1I239lWhYlD8wNwswxbsdce3AN2YFFXyKcr5TiC5935TISLUtFiYaYdnmprcdrHCBz792kU5p7fZdTe5o9FAmVEEwJ60X8G2ouc600aBO8Ley-bQIeF7PaAvRxI1IrSPTGAdEqAw7gpro00gvwpShB0uXnLTucKXmI7nSp7LhQjcL/s628/20230924_172600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DGdI-rWUWXD-O0P1I239lWhYlD8wNwswxbsdce3AN2YFFXyKcr5TiC5935TISLUtFiYaYdnmprcdrHCBz792kU5p7fZdTe5o9FAmVEEwJ60X8G2ouc600aBO8Ley-bQIeF7PaAvRxI1IrSPTGAdEqAw7gpro00gvwpShB0uXnLTucKXmI7nSp7LhQjcL/w480-h640/20230924_172600.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back home, in my garden, a bee napped in a dahlia's rich blooming bud. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7HLwDlV_7J-vDwtkw10k0uuGSzQFbflcfQVXsFZ6YVi8u0Mhbpcpiq5cdN67ilzaf0fMGqab5P8ne_pUakFLj1rtPG4G6b9TSrKepN4WV4e6bOJn8HC_lHUPdgnz7VK9bypusw-GnUzRpP_ElKgFEAAxvkoltjN4GrMzRigCXdNAignU_dywnpmuIf1X/s837/20230922_090642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7HLwDlV_7J-vDwtkw10k0uuGSzQFbflcfQVXsFZ6YVi8u0Mhbpcpiq5cdN67ilzaf0fMGqab5P8ne_pUakFLj1rtPG4G6b9TSrKepN4WV4e6bOJn8HC_lHUPdgnz7VK9bypusw-GnUzRpP_ElKgFEAAxvkoltjN4GrMzRigCXdNAignU_dywnpmuIf1X/w640-h480/20230922_090642.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canning has commenced in earnest! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNKjRWYDhWan2Viy5QKjUJoXrZzrKpvUH3wCROk6qzBsHVQoEStocuN5TWRRtCo-u0nZntTeLujgkMKEIaqFbMRX3byUhW7NM39iz6KAQ6DA02LPrP96hccOMTkgNa7Dl1eHICc8l2C43OOelde-uekwOdBN_KbusLQFjS2NH_CVjf31UD_cnU4n_e3g6/s860/20230922_082845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="860" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNKjRWYDhWan2Viy5QKjUJoXrZzrKpvUH3wCROk6qzBsHVQoEStocuN5TWRRtCo-u0nZntTeLujgkMKEIaqFbMRX3byUhW7NM39iz6KAQ6DA02LPrP96hccOMTkgNa7Dl1eHICc8l2C43OOelde-uekwOdBN_KbusLQFjS2NH_CVjf31UD_cnU4n_e3g6/w640-h468/20230922_082845.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I never tire of the scenery that greets me each morning as I walk! <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6fotayDoOXjgVfVL4uEOqdzOMo-TA6BLpzKpdTIC36MnpEbuWwgt9DLC7562Up9ZtHmrB8yvy91s_xe0XxKOn9dOU3dbHN32Tghe6-Dkr-Ns0Lk5kt7i0IlHSXvd4DAr145Kw-qlJwgSfmFObIdz_AZJLFouYXCZZXJug9BwW99RaFPNOpPeI2u0-_tB/s837/20230918_075751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6fotayDoOXjgVfVL4uEOqdzOMo-TA6BLpzKpdTIC36MnpEbuWwgt9DLC7562Up9ZtHmrB8yvy91s_xe0XxKOn9dOU3dbHN32Tghe6-Dkr-Ns0Lk5kt7i0IlHSXvd4DAr145Kw-qlJwgSfmFObIdz_AZJLFouYXCZZXJug9BwW99RaFPNOpPeI2u0-_tB/w640-h480/20230918_075751.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garden is full of bright blooms - food for my soul! <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDpIWR7oqw9GEdkI6k3X8u0ZKGp4XeTHPpxy283xiNf4QXU_l4bKNFTndBo-r7En7Q6kliA70v47PIc2-i0aGPuvTM4RaWSCvObed25FhHO82X3V-eKf_qJM6iaYee0rzSWMZiacDBg_I9thvJQIdX4iGPiWDSCLQ3vx0Wg_Cy76aBYG9a6hRTm0I81FW/s837/20230917_134635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="837" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDpIWR7oqw9GEdkI6k3X8u0ZKGp4XeTHPpxy283xiNf4QXU_l4bKNFTndBo-r7En7Q6kliA70v47PIc2-i0aGPuvTM4RaWSCvObed25FhHO82X3V-eKf_qJM6iaYee0rzSWMZiacDBg_I9thvJQIdX4iGPiWDSCLQ3vx0Wg_Cy76aBYG9a6hRTm0I81FW/w640-h480/20230917_134635.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountains of tomatoes - how I thank the Lord for this abundant harvest! <br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div>So for now - you know where I'll be... in the kitchen - as busy as can be! :) </div><div>Blessings to all of you! </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><i>Let us not become weary in doing good, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><i>for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><i>if we do not give up.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">Galatians 6:9</i></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div><!--more--><span><!--more--></span>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-31270573927243082662023-08-30T12:05:00.003-07:002023-08-30T12:14:29.227-07:00Smoky Days and Soaking Rains<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Summer is drawing to a close here in our beautiful North Idaho. I had lows in my garden of 38 degrees in July! We've had many nights in the low 40s in the last couple of weeks. My plants are doing their best, as I support them and give them everything I can think of to help them - but we all know that Fall and the first frost are close at hand... </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI797o3RuS0thjX3E1IqWtAaAWtSNheBf_PZW4p3CXuZjq04BMmm9t3QcVG0XKnLOhJ9m9TpG5HIRsn98RThu7fAU0DEnfvfLyk_q77ANGLgxYT4EjkdUsqCkWAp4_ZWsaFkNXv3LhqrTP4v5NZ4_0NxEi0eBDPDnBVDgyEXZe2b0Id32wOejfVcemefhb/s1115/20230817_195759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI797o3RuS0thjX3E1IqWtAaAWtSNheBf_PZW4p3CXuZjq04BMmm9t3QcVG0XKnLOhJ9m9TpG5HIRsn98RThu7fAU0DEnfvfLyk_q77ANGLgxYT4EjkdUsqCkWAp4_ZWsaFkNXv3LhqrTP4v5NZ4_0NxEi0eBDPDnBVDgyEXZe2b0Id32wOejfVcemefhb/w640-h360/20230817_195759.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaEZoq9JX1m64wZoRMyBpJy7pR12rBKQAPEDegS9_VSHKB5J4KLfmw8S94AEs6v0FNKPXNsgphKeZkCfmqgiFAfj5gjpvporTWhkukBu6Gr8fM4t42ahWjb-T0s3j7y_DRyKbbGuPpLjZyRWzrqiT-usvnKESbhZYl_nPiw7s3HcfU3bN2jvJABKqTwrE/s1115/20230817_195812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaEZoq9JX1m64wZoRMyBpJy7pR12rBKQAPEDegS9_VSHKB5J4KLfmw8S94AEs6v0FNKPXNsgphKeZkCfmqgiFAfj5gjpvporTWhkukBu6Gr8fM4t42ahWjb-T0s3j7y_DRyKbbGuPpLjZyRWzrqiT-usvnKESbhZYl_nPiw7s3HcfU3bN2jvJABKqTwrE/w640-h360/20230817_195812.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">August is always a month full of glorious beauty, an abundance of harvest, and a soaking up of the garden's precious offerings - blooms, fruit, and gorgeous sunsets! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZvV4UScAUSFLEiAkXe9zNTMxqXxHAXn1AJUmAg4DvVUuYjGeaQFR5LdlT7-5iF5Z8FL--XSscjOORJfvLrFsWP8Kzq7opXwzlLd6kzBKbO6RbckZAYmFHd7uv5znSilvvX2D8XfLZVW2AVPzbPF6FznQAJVHhOcthzNFHi7_-TExtfIBLzZ3xC7WBZ5N/s1115/20230817_195937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZvV4UScAUSFLEiAkXe9zNTMxqXxHAXn1AJUmAg4DvVUuYjGeaQFR5LdlT7-5iF5Z8FL--XSscjOORJfvLrFsWP8Kzq7opXwzlLd6kzBKbO6RbckZAYmFHd7uv5znSilvvX2D8XfLZVW2AVPzbPF6FznQAJVHhOcthzNFHi7_-TExtfIBLzZ3xC7WBZ5N/w640-h360/20230817_195937.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My sunflowers are showing off! Look at that bright happy face, shining so brightly within the gorgeous sunset skies! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwjPlZDUE-41mThojLzMB_19zB8X4JhR7fItkTZS-Eo6uEAlxvbqQyBjih-BImRROAycxjbuPPXxfC5M0Nt1bghTmVpkpoS44Vm2lmoBa6QGybJQUxh4fHyfMi1apmt08MrdBAseSgNQbzi9YlomL-nqbdGQ0yO0H3XgJpOkOMjB98Jf7IIMotVBQGocg/s1115/20230818_185810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwjPlZDUE-41mThojLzMB_19zB8X4JhR7fItkTZS-Eo6uEAlxvbqQyBjih-BImRROAycxjbuPPXxfC5M0Nt1bghTmVpkpoS44Vm2lmoBa6QGybJQUxh4fHyfMi1apmt08MrdBAseSgNQbzi9YlomL-nqbdGQ0yO0H3XgJpOkOMjB98Jf7IIMotVBQGocg/w640-h360/20230818_185810.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the last couple of weeks, we have had gusty winds, and many fires have started in our area. It was a very worrisome period for us. The smoke in the skies was heavy and at dangerous levels. Thankfully, we had no fires that threatened our home, but hundreds of our Washington neighbors lost their homes that weekend. Churches and communities are mobilizing to assist those who lost so much. I can't imagine the heartbreak and loss these folks experienced! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsevoTCXy6X7WQaN6slPkU698R01Vfse1XaKJdzYa4KbbZf6bvOa988T1cM2sM-2UZyuE5nxBY-LfLaL3nw_-LpLCdLQMwEoD09BLfXOHFs2R6q9yhaEG6E2VjkAQbw8y80PUFSU2emRLSL4l4N54J98C8CI3DoZwMdYCH76Yg0CQc6r8y8p9MiTeMN9OZ/s1115/20230819_175821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsevoTCXy6X7WQaN6slPkU698R01Vfse1XaKJdzYa4KbbZf6bvOa988T1cM2sM-2UZyuE5nxBY-LfLaL3nw_-LpLCdLQMwEoD09BLfXOHFs2R6q9yhaEG6E2VjkAQbw8y80PUFSU2emRLSL4l4N54J98C8CI3DoZwMdYCH76Yg0CQc6r8y8p9MiTeMN9OZ/w640-h360/20230819_175821.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We had planned a neighborly get-together the weekend the fires started. We planned to sit outside and visit. The smoke and fires changed our plans, so we set up the potluck inside our son and his wife's shed which is a work in progress to become a tiny home. It was wonderful to visit with our neighbors and friends! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzL_c6-ztWtcPU7AqG2MFSy6zA22JijyZ9z_jK8zbziOB63H8cTcVRrjS8-O2VGybH184ucuVXWgsN2cfgWBaDR0QPv0zqFtQOtqUiC6pHFN5ToJyOSyRip_71sZ6el4P_aTZkAHDoafJ9XgcrtICri-uOk9qFTaI1heXuo8lb5n-5KnTcSRi3OzF5Vj2A/s628/20230819_193511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzL_c6-ztWtcPU7AqG2MFSy6zA22JijyZ9z_jK8zbziOB63H8cTcVRrjS8-O2VGybH184ucuVXWgsN2cfgWBaDR0QPv0zqFtQOtqUiC6pHFN5ToJyOSyRip_71sZ6el4P_aTZkAHDoafJ9XgcrtICri-uOk9qFTaI1heXuo8lb5n-5KnTcSRi3OzF5Vj2A/w360-h640/20230819_193511.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our daughter Danielle brought her puppy to entertain us, he is a corgi, and just precious! So very sweet! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJwgS076t1kO_qTQ97k-6DKvn69An4Zzj6kZSl3o5UsFFL-lsz4uOhhjaZwGrFJflR8vV-3Vkmd39-X8ScivgCIn2iXoDzsCRtQoVFmnfom1qn6LgItE9hzx-mMciSOM85WxxQFPZK1iKlbMrIx5OIWrPYPdyqTPz0r6l88vXSKEU0-E2ZQmYVa9worKrh/s628/20230821_191437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJwgS076t1kO_qTQ97k-6DKvn69An4Zzj6kZSl3o5UsFFL-lsz4uOhhjaZwGrFJflR8vV-3Vkmd39-X8ScivgCIn2iXoDzsCRtQoVFmnfom1qn6LgItE9hzx-mMciSOM85WxxQFPZK1iKlbMrIx5OIWrPYPdyqTPz0r6l88vXSKEU0-E2ZQmYVa9worKrh/w360-h640/20230821_191437.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I saw this bee in my garden just sleeping on the dahlia in the midst of all the smoke and wildfire haze- and I thought - I need to do this too! Wouldn't it be just wonderful to curl up for a nap in the petals of a flower {smiles} I realized this as I watched the little bee - I just need to rest in God's provision too, and enjoy His beauty in spite of what is happening in the world around me!<br /><br /> </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKv9mJSVbFEflxma7vlFp0uaqql3x6HpoHG5rYrdgGBUQTrb0-2OAErcoSUwY82BYpea_ILyclvB2u6rYCrOtmP2PuEqYliaYyFwnpyN4XBUoD0-HurIZHmXmbtkfxIZRLaUFXRni2b6IwaJzBrDzGE5gPq2lc7pRgH9h2dfrdYvT-K93J1_QCpTVKDHPe/s1115/20230822_084425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKv9mJSVbFEflxma7vlFp0uaqql3x6HpoHG5rYrdgGBUQTrb0-2OAErcoSUwY82BYpea_ILyclvB2u6rYCrOtmP2PuEqYliaYyFwnpyN4XBUoD0-HurIZHmXmbtkfxIZRLaUFXRni2b6IwaJzBrDzGE5gPq2lc7pRgH9h2dfrdYvT-K93J1_QCpTVKDHPe/w640-h360/20230822_084425.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Finally, we did get some rain! What a relief it was to walk in the cool weather, with the wind blowing, and rain pelting my face. The rain slowed the fires down, thankfully, and most evacuations have been lifted. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAWn4Hj13V2jNMitncPrTVcGxoSFlm2tS0KFFHqIDcGlilOigUAmo_4l6LOLcCZeEwIL_LCniG6YIe-hUtxXPnUnXMSk7g0qphNb-xzwK-CU9SY6vM1vwV6TQ9gt1GENMqfPbG7hJhYWjriadS8_NBZ58hMhD1IdqgZQSN7S75X_eBFdObp8GuxI8SmoC/s628/20230822_091056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="537" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAWn4Hj13V2jNMitncPrTVcGxoSFlm2tS0KFFHqIDcGlilOigUAmo_4l6LOLcCZeEwIL_LCniG6YIe-hUtxXPnUnXMSk7g0qphNb-xzwK-CU9SY6vM1vwV6TQ9gt1GENMqfPbG7hJhYWjriadS8_NBZ58hMhD1IdqgZQSN7S75X_eBFdObp8GuxI8SmoC/w548-h640/20230822_091056.jpg" width="548" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A tomato sandwich! The tomatoes are ripening in the garden and making their way into every meal in our home! There is just nothing like the taste of a homegrown tomato! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAdqo2Jf5rPfFUQy7cDiwctr_WnMyg5yvDB6aD2v_EjL-ObrIikhrwZkLRoKtc6DEKUW9EZa2BhakbpF77U3FNJjjUak5mRHThMm_pkTriA8UHUI3qR2bARCqkaphQPGyG8Bki_7ydWBcMdx3rhbA73Wzrv3r1WVmToWEjrXwlsjkNFsgxaTKeN9BGNTJ/s628/20230823_075321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAdqo2Jf5rPfFUQy7cDiwctr_WnMyg5yvDB6aD2v_EjL-ObrIikhrwZkLRoKtc6DEKUW9EZa2BhakbpF77U3FNJjjUak5mRHThMm_pkTriA8UHUI3qR2bARCqkaphQPGyG8Bki_7ydWBcMdx3rhbA73Wzrv3r1WVmToWEjrXwlsjkNFsgxaTKeN9BGNTJ/w360-h640/20230823_075321.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The cattle panel trellis has an abundance of green beans growing on it! I've been picking pounds of green beans! It is a good harvesting year! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz01ebob07yV9dnFZ0RMN4w-Jar4GI17SouqwWQzDFsfC_gF8c38LC5N2s9rY4xcHLz9afSF_YSeZwOJTQw1MulJ9o_0OXpwQAYgdYJ1nl5T-DlvqnpOBpCzM2WF4j2IixRnrrfKOtmkK97iMQC8LzgWRKFkpKTh6skOxN5ZjlG6kxqiSjkU1fdSJynFNr/s1115/20230823_075326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz01ebob07yV9dnFZ0RMN4w-Jar4GI17SouqwWQzDFsfC_gF8c38LC5N2s9rY4xcHLz9afSF_YSeZwOJTQw1MulJ9o_0OXpwQAYgdYJ1nl5T-DlvqnpOBpCzM2WF4j2IixRnrrfKOtmkK97iMQC8LzgWRKFkpKTh6skOxN5ZjlG6kxqiSjkU1fdSJynFNr/w640-h360/20230823_075326.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Early August morning in the garden - fog hanging low as the cool temps mix with the warm ground - there is a sense of contentment that fills my soul to see the green lush beauty within my garden. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHg4wfa9B_azv3thZcJCpB4i0FM-sn7WjVdxN6SU5XKZf3ouZADRlnjaA8wqIqms9gvc_5rtrkDUNPx-XtSWKG_EBgOiP6tE7AF_YwEqdfleP7v6xYCuT-laEfp7urKQ_oaPs7l-FrgvURb_48VRQXGVqPC6uzUt0RiffClVbCmyk3EkpCxjO0G58tMonM/s1115/20230823_075440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHg4wfa9B_azv3thZcJCpB4i0FM-sn7WjVdxN6SU5XKZf3ouZADRlnjaA8wqIqms9gvc_5rtrkDUNPx-XtSWKG_EBgOiP6tE7AF_YwEqdfleP7v6xYCuT-laEfp7urKQ_oaPs7l-FrgvURb_48VRQXGVqPC6uzUt0RiffClVbCmyk3EkpCxjO0G58tMonM/w640-h360/20230823_075440.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Cauliflower is growing in abundance - I will be blanching and freezing :) What would you do with about 15 heads of cauliflower? My family are not big pickle fans, so I think freezing them will be the best way for us to enjoy them through the winter. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawxKIJzCuY7UVua3P3qJdIbJwpohmtnT1OzFBKfz8TZx9iACoUf17qnMKLpA_dOG_5qUlckf0dFVvKfRW7W32OnAxus4bs3WkICJi1qBuJpoe4srPcMUfeHpsTWzIRiM6X5a1zkUnS-vlnN7Psro_E_C5OmZnHy6UfUkwHd8E6NLlEKl-zqCzjd-thM2d/s1115/20230823_080025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawxKIJzCuY7UVua3P3qJdIbJwpohmtnT1OzFBKfz8TZx9iACoUf17qnMKLpA_dOG_5qUlckf0dFVvKfRW7W32OnAxus4bs3WkICJi1qBuJpoe4srPcMUfeHpsTWzIRiM6X5a1zkUnS-vlnN7Psro_E_C5OmZnHy6UfUkwHd8E6NLlEKl-zqCzjd-thM2d/w640-h360/20230823_080025.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Just a view of a neighbor's home as the sun shines, and another rainstorm approaches. We are thankful for all the rain we have gotten - how we need it! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnBPW79XD3snF0IzpL5cZjAnOukgtJMiW2F4hpiwN_sxKeUNWAcFNhb51-Hi8XKHxqg3SyaLbisaKN38wY0q7ivC4lqRHyEf3qzXi_a26ITe7TlbUyqA9dpaZ6xOGBRvHqUBeV867hh7JXHZE9OlYb9BjBEuNo4RjDQ9pGODmgRC8O3Zj-YSlhQxkR2Sg/s1115/20230825_203143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnBPW79XD3snF0IzpL5cZjAnOukgtJMiW2F4hpiwN_sxKeUNWAcFNhb51-Hi8XKHxqg3SyaLbisaKN38wY0q7ivC4lqRHyEf3qzXi_a26ITe7TlbUyqA9dpaZ6xOGBRvHqUBeV867hh7JXHZE9OlYb9BjBEuNo4RjDQ9pGODmgRC8O3Zj-YSlhQxkR2Sg/w640-h360/20230825_203143.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The second August supermoon - also known as the blue moon, as it comes up over my garden. You can see all my solar lights lighting up the garden. <br /><br /><br /> </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4YDWs-on2RpQZl8xQ_8z1SB25XBj7z8GMhF7NDwwFop7R5aNbMbCRsFTRdK4VdzicQAwlEY33J7bKExfDZXDYvn18yrp9CvBQzblWfGkS6es5Zt6FNk1F4bFL-YwjlcUb50JuCAT82_OR-fK5-j16fnhkkRjYOLH7RA4uPopfM3ugAapTMQRQ0U_bSjV/s628/20230828_181201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4YDWs-on2RpQZl8xQ_8z1SB25XBj7z8GMhF7NDwwFop7R5aNbMbCRsFTRdK4VdzicQAwlEY33J7bKExfDZXDYvn18yrp9CvBQzblWfGkS6es5Zt6FNk1F4bFL-YwjlcUb50JuCAT82_OR-fK5-j16fnhkkRjYOLH7RA4uPopfM3ugAapTMQRQ0U_bSjV/w360-h640/20230828_181201.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Garden's best - green beans snapped and ready to can! <br />I canned about 20 pounds of beans this week. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGn3MloOOFxSChNIrhMgmKbWqYd9DGGMQ6DwMxxZ7h8gjBY1uiYCmf-hy0Gwnqee68tWklm3Vet5Zq1hkZNFoiqDXUijXJkJrt7mGjqTisTP58wPtHOPZwaIhMAHLO4UjamZckbeq876XB4owJkGTlcUOwsnKLXBBVLS0yKqwJCjM-1MamY53Kgvk-4LG/s1115/20230828_184911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGn3MloOOFxSChNIrhMgmKbWqYd9DGGMQ6DwMxxZ7h8gjBY1uiYCmf-hy0Gwnqee68tWklm3Vet5Zq1hkZNFoiqDXUijXJkJrt7mGjqTisTP58wPtHOPZwaIhMAHLO4UjamZckbeq876XB4owJkGTlcUOwsnKLXBBVLS0yKqwJCjM-1MamY53Kgvk-4LG/w640-h360/20230828_184911.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I use the raw pack or cold pack method for my green beans. I find it less labor intensive, and also the beans in hot packing seem much more mushy, as they've been cooked twice. What is your favorite way to can green beans? <br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKM-hoThUmHwW15PxCxU9VpwY3PwUn6ltM0LwMzNNYvJDEAM-8TCx_iLQvg-vAQfjWgGpnPWp4HmWLgiAzHHswTgWgWB05MtX6Du-h-P_gdo-s-z-AgwltC2VT3DD0ggjQyo3QYr2NFzXM6Dz1NJk9tiNUwca7X2OiPjDO4LUdUMjWdAAEn6G1bMMCO_O/s1115/20230829_101058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKM-hoThUmHwW15PxCxU9VpwY3PwUn6ltM0LwMzNNYvJDEAM-8TCx_iLQvg-vAQfjWgGpnPWp4HmWLgiAzHHswTgWgWB05MtX6Du-h-P_gdo-s-z-AgwltC2VT3DD0ggjQyo3QYr2NFzXM6Dz1NJk9tiNUwca7X2OiPjDO4LUdUMjWdAAEn6G1bMMCO_O/w640-h360/20230829_101058.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">18 pints of canned green beans - feels good to put food <br />away for our long winter months! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYuGDZy2gYoEae8dVCcXrcyqjHlLztjzXMD428oCp-IdmNmc8micVcB51ILI7NRP1zTOPDRzaOxZiZNQOBLMJio6vI2rlPK2Q4C9p6GETQs3w3zP1BCtjf9BkXWQwvHVBeARbgqaTDb5cIu23e67fGDAbCEKzAInN-RPDbqo7XDs8ZHlRhSyjvVP1dLhr/s628/20230828_195504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYuGDZy2gYoEae8dVCcXrcyqjHlLztjzXMD428oCp-IdmNmc8micVcB51ILI7NRP1zTOPDRzaOxZiZNQOBLMJio6vI2rlPK2Q4C9p6GETQs3w3zP1BCtjf9BkXWQwvHVBeARbgqaTDb5cIu23e67fGDAbCEKzAInN-RPDbqo7XDs8ZHlRhSyjvVP1dLhr/w360-h640/20230828_195504.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here it is - the August Blue Moon! Well, the skies look blue, although <br />the moon was just beautiful as I took this picture :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXsQuYTg9Wkx877CqpKlt-5-FVt0v5QK67i_PKc4hmF9rJBWAS38xhqj-aMog1lN5d6IorDojg7nNb8HtdMmkUggdDJ89XiSPgaQ8PhuqODqPTjdANh8AkJZzZAFlb0AOc2qOzeBu5UvyjYEgekAAmafu_dpFt2_FuCCHMkY83uvIyw9ARnX2FPnOgi0R/s1115/PSX_20230826_072011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXsQuYTg9Wkx877CqpKlt-5-FVt0v5QK67i_PKc4hmF9rJBWAS38xhqj-aMog1lN5d6IorDojg7nNb8HtdMmkUggdDJ89XiSPgaQ8PhuqODqPTjdANh8AkJZzZAFlb0AOc2qOzeBu5UvyjYEgekAAmafu_dpFt2_FuCCHMkY83uvIyw9ARnX2FPnOgi0R/w640-h360/PSX_20230826_072011.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You will find me here for the next few weeks - soaking up all the goodness of the garden - enjoying the bountiful harvest, <br />and always praying for the extension of our growing season. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yes, I do spend a lot of time in my garden praying - it's a beautiful place to talk to the Lord and to spend time in His presence. So much to pray about, and the peace I find here helps me to rest in the Lord. There is so much happening in the world around us that can be hard to understand. </span></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">with all power and false signs and wonders, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and with all wicked deception </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and so be saved. </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">so that they may believe what is false, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">but had pleasure in unrighteousness.</span></i></p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">brothers beloved by the Lord, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">To this he called you through our gospel,</span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter. </span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">1 Thessalonians 2:9-16</span></i></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This verse was made brought to my heart this morning and reassured me that we must just keep on trusting the Lord for He has a perfect plan for all things, and we can rest safely in His care. Just like the little bee resting amongst the beauty of the dahlia as the smoke was thick around us, it was a picture the Lord gave me of how we can rest in His care. He will be with us! </span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="420" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VrxY37qJlE" width="505" youtube-src-id="-VrxY37qJlE"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is a short video of me in the garden at sunset the night the colors were so vibrant and rich. It was the night before the fires in our area started, and the sweet beauty the Lord gave us stayed with me and</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> kept us through the long days of smoke!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="412" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5AGIM1tJ43I" width="495" youtube-src-id="5AGIM1tJ43I"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sharing this music video I created some time ago - spend some time in prayer today - the presence of the Lord is refreshing, and will give you strength to face what lies before you. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Blessings to all! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><span><br /></span>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-233504410219290642023-08-18T13:13:00.001-07:002023-08-18T13:13:12.099-07:00Becoming a Naturalized Citizen! <p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Most of you my faithful readers know that I am Canadian by birth, as I've shared much about my Canadian roots through the years. I have lived in the United States since 1994, and while having my green card - which grants me most of the benefits of being a US citizen - there were still things I could not do with my green card - namely voting, sitting on a jury, running for political office, or being able to get a concealed weapons permit. </span></p><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbh_l0ECVyQFY8GNYFD-sqeuswRmt2q_z0zOyxXN_SZj7XoAYQi8zX1wYjqAFldEtoZppZk8muwbINQ0NGE2_72BW5TaGQEFuX02ggvXGll8ftP1W3tEpZXD5u8WA8On_2xjBnJMNEfDwiQxttArEK-Ifsomn5C4lnIMU_qOd5BWSyXscFXpOrJOxR0Xu/s2400/IMG_2868.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbh_l0ECVyQFY8GNYFD-sqeuswRmt2q_z0zOyxXN_SZj7XoAYQi8zX1wYjqAFldEtoZppZk8muwbINQ0NGE2_72BW5TaGQEFuX02ggvXGll8ftP1W3tEpZXD5u8WA8On_2xjBnJMNEfDwiQxttArEK-Ifsomn5C4lnIMU_qOd5BWSyXscFXpOrJOxR0Xu/w640-h426/IMG_2868.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Receiving my naturalization certificate! <br /><br /><span><!--more--></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">On July 24, 2023, I walked across the stage to receive my naturalized citizen certificate. It was the culmination of a long process that I started back in May. With the encouragement of my father and other family members, I began the paperwork to become naturalized. It breaks my heart that he was not able to see me walk across the stage, and get my certificate, although I felt his approval from eternity, and I know he was clapping for me from the heavenly grandstands! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmJr29T5dNkKqrjSRqqDdfS50MZspbYbbRMhDzTqAZtBpTsHuln2mSpwmj4sRU5XWnrJ93rqJj7JrosljVpowljnoJUNJ6BexwVvdNVQ-iiLC-rrgpiSoTKzyU_cOMFN6-YaauJvrmmz3iKvLepkOo1eoDbaVY4MsMja1_skzm6JRkrFtIs-msdhwH66j/s2400/IMG_2739.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmJr29T5dNkKqrjSRqqDdfS50MZspbYbbRMhDzTqAZtBpTsHuln2mSpwmj4sRU5XWnrJ93rqJj7JrosljVpowljnoJUNJ6BexwVvdNVQ-iiLC-rrgpiSoTKzyU_cOMFN6-YaauJvrmmz3iKvLepkOo1eoDbaVY4MsMja1_skzm6JRkrFtIs-msdhwH66j/w640-h426/IMG_2739.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0twlr0S0riugMlVi9LXewq4GQe9xP1Uzv929uZ_1QOU6yTNJhPHkFOXA1ZZHGU6jJ8mqyKXaXceYEAYFjbeskEusOm_P8cFqW3tRQm2mTDM4DFUtlW0-fMsMxQPOB3zwZN1x4acUdeRTg6PpB63Nbh_WiyyRJBtbbg_4uXM7M9Bo-AXIRgVeuxUr93FHP/s2400/IMG_2733.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0twlr0S0riugMlVi9LXewq4GQe9xP1Uzv929uZ_1QOU6yTNJhPHkFOXA1ZZHGU6jJ8mqyKXaXceYEAYFjbeskEusOm_P8cFqW3tRQm2mTDM4DFUtlW0-fMsMxQPOB3zwZN1x4acUdeRTg6PpB63Nbh_WiyyRJBtbbg_4uXM7M9Bo-AXIRgVeuxUr93FHP/w640-h426/IMG_2733.jpeg" width="640" /></a></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsR6i7tGB_EGTlzgZSgXD0oNCJFDM11Z6EvDNPFTXS1DSrhMYFEa9xiI6vyJrNBtVy_l47HwUq_VysGnZEU92-Fp13FvvvZx6QP8OJ8MIOKsTH1LzFqmdtHPGWAIL-2Opv76olkXqZb2rkt-5VGXEAXbJ2vIFf5QShIZL59yGQx5_I-1gUPUvzBBSG1_Q/s2400/IMG_2702.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsR6i7tGB_EGTlzgZSgXD0oNCJFDM11Z6EvDNPFTXS1DSrhMYFEa9xiI6vyJrNBtVy_l47HwUq_VysGnZEU92-Fp13FvvvZx6QP8OJ8MIOKsTH1LzFqmdtHPGWAIL-2Opv76olkXqZb2rkt-5VGXEAXbJ2vIFf5QShIZL59yGQx5_I-1gUPUvzBBSG1_Q/w640-h426/IMG_2702.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUD1W6LPRZUKwyXqfawx84c1L5hHUJstFLYNpdzxDay03soqcvJ9Bc3XY0tZ2DbhCmAB1m6V0qowu8c3zrjHiodo_dcQOj3hIpYWjdrLfAsYjKEe6_4YZ0jgJkNLvwlk06JNhta6ejnwBCpZNcPu0TocgJp9SNMePfLJWA8jU-yOHcQSOjDW33BobhLbSe/s2400/IMG_2716.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUD1W6LPRZUKwyXqfawx84c1L5hHUJstFLYNpdzxDay03soqcvJ9Bc3XY0tZ2DbhCmAB1m6V0qowu8c3zrjHiodo_dcQOj3hIpYWjdrLfAsYjKEe6_4YZ0jgJkNLvwlk06JNhta6ejnwBCpZNcPu0TocgJp9SNMePfLJWA8jU-yOHcQSOjDW33BobhLbSe/w640-h426/IMG_2716.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLO_Cp-RIxcAUD3Z_U0rgsn1FlQXla5QfkL681HpAytqgWhLUGU2TQ71MWJAoJs7S3USixoZfwviI0_ZguUZDxbnrEqCqamIHNNLrUswgF246V_Wt-sRqMT2SQqShoRwBN2ZZSvcNofwCaSeIvJFXEdZ-zUpjFkZex1Ompy8M_IlotGFXMj0MB-ruX2l7/s2400/IMG_2766.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLO_Cp-RIxcAUD3Z_U0rgsn1FlQXla5QfkL681HpAytqgWhLUGU2TQ71MWJAoJs7S3USixoZfwviI0_ZguUZDxbnrEqCqamIHNNLrUswgF246V_Wt-sRqMT2SQqShoRwBN2ZZSvcNofwCaSeIvJFXEdZ-zUpjFkZex1Ompy8M_IlotGFXMj0MB-ruX2l7/w640-h426/IMG_2766.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusyOVUWdWiAVzZ6BFSlSUjyWBWOU3Ig-7u9Qz0PKr0H1-JknxlM2RR8_71Qa9B1KLYfICetXEP066EoelM4SuN7G7d1EA-3EsHpYf_PcXVYFKCD6I0mgG3nXXu9O2tVng2q1LXMQWJRrtd2jxDwq08XXtS-PunSdI3ulYaGMyGzWr3mK_FxyNsfTc8lH6/s2400/IMG_2786.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusyOVUWdWiAVzZ6BFSlSUjyWBWOU3Ig-7u9Qz0PKr0H1-JknxlM2RR8_71Qa9B1KLYfICetXEP066EoelM4SuN7G7d1EA-3EsHpYf_PcXVYFKCD6I0mgG3nXXu9O2tVng2q1LXMQWJRrtd2jxDwq08XXtS-PunSdI3ulYaGMyGzWr3mK_FxyNsfTc8lH6/w640-h426/IMG_2786.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">It was such a special day, that I had to write about my experience for my family to always remember, and to be able to share with others, so I am sharing the following article about my naturalization citizenship process with you. :) </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In September 1994 after a difficult decision
process, our family of 7 sold our home and most of our belongings, packed up a
U-Haul truck, and moved from Prince Edward Island, Canada to San Antonio, Texas.
My father’s job transfer enabled him to get a work visa – but the rest of us –
my mother, 4 siblings, and I came in under his work visa, and could not work. It
was a very difficult period for our family. I had already graduated from
college as a medical transcriptionist, and at 21 years of age, I had been
working and owning a vehicle. Upon arriving in Texas, my younger siblings
enrolled in school, facing a lot of difficulties as they adjusted to a different
culture, even though we came from a similar country. Our accent made us stand
out from others, and there were so many things that were difficult adjustments
in Texas –from the many critters that stung and bit, the unbearable heat, the
traffic, and the exposure to different races and cultures. Soon though, we all
adjusted, married, and had children of our own. For 29 years I have lived in
this great country of the United States of America, and after receiving my green
card, worked as a medical transcriptionist at home for 25 years while raising
our two children, Danielle and Ryan. In the last 3 years, we have seen both our
children now married and starting a life of their own.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">After some contemplation, and encouragement
from my family, I decided to apply for citizenship. A green card affords you
most of the rights of other Americans, but citizenship means you can vote, you
can run for political office, you can sit on a jury, and you can obtain a
concealed weapon permit. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">In May 2023, I sat down at the computer and
began the lengthy process of becoming a citizen of the United States. I was granted an interview after all my
documents were approved. The initial part of the interview involved a
citizenship test. While sitting in the
waiting room in Spokane at the Thomas Foley Federal Courthouse, I reviewed the
100 questions that I needed to memorize, of them 10 random questions could be
asked in the interview. You had to answer 6 correctly out of 10 to pass. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">As I studied the test, I learned many things!
Do you know how many US representatives there are? What are the two longest rivers in the United
States? Who wrote the Declaration of Independence? You can find the answers to these questions
at <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/">www.uscis.gov</a> I learned so much after studying for this
test, even after helping my children in all their history and government classes
as they went to public school. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">After studying for this test, I began to wonder
– how many people who are born American citizens could answer these 100
questions?</span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Upon being called into the interview with a
customs officer, the test was given first, and thankfully I was able to answer
the first six questions correctly. Then, my citizenship was granted, and I was
given an appointment the following Monday, July 24 to be naturalized as an
American citizen.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The naturalization ceremony was something every
American should be present for at least once in their lifetime! The emotion in
the room was palpable, sacred, and beautiful! 87 people from 35 countries were
represented there, each with their own story of how and why they came to
America. Each had gone through the same process I had. I had an advantage! I
speak English as my native language, but many, if not all that were there – did
not. They still had to study for the same test, pass the same test, and do all
the document paperwork, just to become a citizen. As we stood with our right
hand raised and gave our pledge to the United States of America, tears rolled
down the faces of most, if not all present! What a privilege to be a part of
this country that offers so much to those who come here with willing hearts to
give, serve and obey the laws of this land. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I watched the faces around me – faces from
cultures and countries I had never been to. I wondered about their stories and
wished I had time to hear from each one. The guest speaker, herself from an
African country, had joined the Air Force, and after serving in the military
was eligible for citizenship. As she gave her address, she struggled with the
English language she had adopted as her own, and her voice shook with emotion
as she shared her difficult journey to get to the place she was standing today
– about to become a naturalized American citizen. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">If only every American born in this country
could be a part of a ceremony like this – to witness the emotional gratitude of
living in a country that offers freedoms like no other country on earth. Birth
in this country grants you a lot of privileges. But – to drive a car, you must
take a test in order to cooperate with the laws of the road. I wondered – why
do we not have a required test for every citizen who votes, just like a test is
required to drive? The right to vote is a precious one, but the laws of the
land need to be understood. Perhaps this needs to be discussed – if one must
understand the laws of the road to drive, should not one also understand the
laws of the land in order to vote, and be required to pass a test to do so? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">These questions filled my mind last Monday at
the naturalization ceremony. I have been a citizen now a little over a week,
and it feels wonderful! I look forward to the opportunity to vote, and to serve
on a jury. I am grateful for the freedoms the United States of America offers to
each of its citizens, and my heart wishes that every American could feel this
same pride, joy, and thankfulness to be its citizen. Perhaps the topic of a
voting test could be explored further. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I do not take the privilege of being able to
vote lightly. In fact, a very important election is being held in our local
community this month. As a citizen now of this great country, I have listened
to both sides of the issue at hand. It is important that we consider the
beliefs and ideas of others, even if they are different from ours. We must not
just listen to the voice that speaks the loudest or has the most words. We must
carefully reason, think, and recognize that each of us is free to believe and
vote as we choose, and no one should feel ashamed for voting for what they
believe in. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">It is imperative in the social media-driven
world we live in, to not just listen to social media, but show up to meetings,
meet the candidates, ask questions, and read all material available. This is our right and responsibility as
Americans. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I look forward to casting my vote for the very
first time in this local election, it is a privilege I don’t take for granted,
and one that I will pray over, that I will study out, and one that I will vote
with clear direction. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I encourage each of you, my dear fellow American
citizens to do the same. Do not take the right to vote lightly. In fact, go
ahead and visit the USCIS.gov website, and read the citizenship test – educate
yourself, and above all, do not take the privilege of being an American citizen
lightly, it is an honor that each of us should be very grateful for! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">~ ~ ~ ~</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I shared the above article with our local newspaper, the River Valley Beacon, and they were kind enough to share my story with their readers. Here is the link to that article: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1003452027301780&set=pb.100029109768691.-2207520000.&type=3" target="_blank">River Valley Beacon</a> They were very kind to share my story! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvuS4PqA76-dHqEh-dmDBTGGvTc2XqxfZI1PRH8L3ZPveiOOvdJp79bmOgBgs5dMm0QqLwKHIWELsmLkNbAxY1df_MDyIi1LLktVEFYDEul-yuS_S8FJvN0jAeQ2xVrw5ufKmltQd3dEN2oZh_BKkCyYzz5WmaFEkjut2QpwqdyWKJ6lZBDE2hzOlHVJC/s3648/20230724_100935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvuS4PqA76-dHqEh-dmDBTGGvTc2XqxfZI1PRH8L3ZPveiOOvdJp79bmOgBgs5dMm0QqLwKHIWELsmLkNbAxY1df_MDyIi1LLktVEFYDEul-yuS_S8FJvN0jAeQ2xVrw5ufKmltQd3dEN2oZh_BKkCyYzz5WmaFEkjut2QpwqdyWKJ6lZBDE2hzOlHVJC/w480-h640/20230724_100935.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I was thankful to have family and friends there to support me! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1E0OI5t_ztxctCThRDzEJdTtN4Ll0nTO4H3bchnIIQyAdyAvlCeEv3Yap36ttlucGS5i9LWF2HB9RP2ni8hSImnnJsRidpp4T11svy96RA0fyiiu9SZuX3XF3f__xpO1GPGeXhnjQOrKZFI-XfO51REYhkH-XNjVdsDGF-u0Ozzbq9QTwk-HxI9RuW53/s4000/20230724_103459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1E0OI5t_ztxctCThRDzEJdTtN4Ll0nTO4H3bchnIIQyAdyAvlCeEv3Yap36ttlucGS5i9LWF2HB9RP2ni8hSImnnJsRidpp4T11svy96RA0fyiiu9SZuX3XF3f__xpO1GPGeXhnjQOrKZFI-XfO51REYhkH-XNjVdsDGF-u0Ozzbq9QTwk-HxI9RuW53/w360-h640/20230724_103459.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YwMhy_N-eI3F5efRcfEIEtwUtHfq7cDsvrf6z0uSFT-CVZ5U1XT-Xt5eQ6x-AMfNKa-FDiF1b-m5Isd6AoXx9QdTSs0x6nnOL4XKs2R3-s2ApprbsA74BTYFrV-nK1WlQNDRDzeGPQQURpB3G2dWlDMAuDl3mZK8Q2UfYvcmZKPa93f_oMsskkDvjihT/s4000/20230724_105543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YwMhy_N-eI3F5efRcfEIEtwUtHfq7cDsvrf6z0uSFT-CVZ5U1XT-Xt5eQ6x-AMfNKa-FDiF1b-m5Isd6AoXx9QdTSs0x6nnOL4XKs2R3-s2ApprbsA74BTYFrV-nK1WlQNDRDzeGPQQURpB3G2dWlDMAuDl3mZK8Q2UfYvcmZKPa93f_oMsskkDvjihT/w360-h640/20230724_105543.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This was the Oath that those of us being naturalized had to hold our right hand up and pledge it together.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYcoo5iGp1kgn7d1CAe2nFLemhrMz6k0q3P3zEU4p8MiVmGkw285T5VTlcRRERSRaiKQ3Gg3vazYiTq6MZBhe0uFpjvDO82MfVEV90AfAs4-RrQIxeHgy0F_Y3Lv4T62vk0CXLBq-8dXu__49qwY4U_cZYi-dJacZX3gmvlPXhaSEsFQhUGOPxtoYexh6/s4000/20230724_114244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYcoo5iGp1kgn7d1CAe2nFLemhrMz6k0q3P3zEU4p8MiVmGkw285T5VTlcRRERSRaiKQ3Gg3vazYiTq6MZBhe0uFpjvDO82MfVEV90AfAs4-RrQIxeHgy0F_Y3Lv4T62vk0CXLBq-8dXu__49qwY4U_cZYi-dJacZX3gmvlPXhaSEsFQhUGOPxtoYexh6/w640-h360/20230724_114244.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Some of our neighbors, friends, and family members gathered with us at the ceremony. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEtR_L4-AfNjRZjiLBfN9JZFOnJ8qInZgUWvu2okcmfXN3WGs33t-eaeCYTm3yonS0aMVP6LpMxyNssryzmt9mUfmr5ZfYtHlHfQ74DFaW-1zV_qfhs5-K8ucYGuuu9p3uqP3Dw-kT_RGY0gJ-LPQyJ0Ku0-cGXsHM-Lk-maYYzAfIFN_pSsBzNTsDxex/s3108/20230724_115927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3108" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEtR_L4-AfNjRZjiLBfN9JZFOnJ8qInZgUWvu2okcmfXN3WGs33t-eaeCYTm3yonS0aMVP6LpMxyNssryzmt9mUfmr5ZfYtHlHfQ74DFaW-1zV_qfhs5-K8ucYGuuu9p3uqP3Dw-kT_RGY0gJ-LPQyJ0Ku0-cGXsHM-Lk-maYYzAfIFN_pSsBzNTsDxex/w464-h640/20230724_115927.jpg" width="464" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A dear friend gifted me this lovely USA flag purse :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ-9jtQQw3EdghGEUtQPlw2xEWxH-DtIEQsvU9HRYANvMwQDOiVuYmbA_tTi4Yjje5A4VCOJECo6PVKvwbjqv4bEr1MuYREqtvBUl9IuACHBf3EC9dzqy0fB856r2sPvfeEsh_-jH0VyjtB08CkS4Wh1OjcI01fgjX-ZPa1q0IO0y2a8BZygcaWcECXyo/s3648/20230724_133516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ-9jtQQw3EdghGEUtQPlw2xEWxH-DtIEQsvU9HRYANvMwQDOiVuYmbA_tTi4Yjje5A4VCOJECo6PVKvwbjqv4bEr1MuYREqtvBUl9IuACHBf3EC9dzqy0fB856r2sPvfeEsh_-jH0VyjtB08CkS4Wh1OjcI01fgjX-ZPa1q0IO0y2a8BZygcaWcECXyo/w640-h480/20230724_133516.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Some of us gathered at a restaurant to continue the celebration :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">It was a very special day in so many ways, and I'll always be grateful for the opportunity to live in this great country. It saddens me to see the direction it has taken in recent years, but still, we live in a country that offers its citizens such blessed freedoms and rights. May we never take them for granted! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I hope you enjoyed hearing about my naturalization process. It was a great journey, and I am glad it is over! {smiles} </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Many blessings to all of you! And God Bless America! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-45719851705715772112023-08-09T07:01:00.004-07:002023-08-09T07:03:14.539-07:00Summer Days are Passing Quickly! <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Thanks to all of you who shared such encouraging words about the passing of my Dad. I have mourned his passing each and every day - and have appreciated all the prayers and encouraging words each of you have shared with me! There is an ache in my soul every moment with the loss of his presence here on earth, but then I look up into the heavens, into the skies and the Lord reminds me that Dad is at peace there, with Him. What a comfort it is to know that in the darkest moments of our loss, we can still rest in comfort in that knowledge! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuyIF3ADgLYmDdkCpD7ZVI45wllzahXUXy6wAx95zArZDyfdJwvqgMBiBdnADzh0leDX7cLw9IqI0bRijVorDpxMshfH9MJmc5q0knHBHbb_cNCFzZLm6ZVxMgtZbxjiQrSdPFtjepm_keAzq_M_V52TQotBUDHttTmPIL3DpRNWeFqtT4LeAp-dtWFYR5/s1115/20230628_204833.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuyIF3ADgLYmDdkCpD7ZVI45wllzahXUXy6wAx95zArZDyfdJwvqgMBiBdnADzh0leDX7cLw9IqI0bRijVorDpxMshfH9MJmc5q0knHBHbb_cNCFzZLm6ZVxMgtZbxjiQrSdPFtjepm_keAzq_M_V52TQotBUDHttTmPIL3DpRNWeFqtT4LeAp-dtWFYR5/w640-h360/20230628_204833.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The garden has been a place of solace and comfort for me. It was the place I last heard my Dad's voice. And, it is the place where the voice of our Heavenly Father speaks to me too! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbDXZMFXqf3BsouIoUU8A3DUn2V87n_9wpOXlRho_AwarVob-hrdi2i39nKaHpZn8U1l7nRfyA-MYr9uFt4HiHZuKCx3bqU1zRHdRAzea8ImHCJ6ayeQBecKnRll66FHqnzFoYHoiO71DlFeyVSqLYsH5nUK4TvacF6Sp4Q6orA3x5f0Wry2hPaQghoAw/s628/20230628_203352.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbDXZMFXqf3BsouIoUU8A3DUn2V87n_9wpOXlRho_AwarVob-hrdi2i39nKaHpZn8U1l7nRfyA-MYr9uFt4HiHZuKCx3bqU1zRHdRAzea8ImHCJ6ayeQBecKnRll66FHqnzFoYHoiO71DlFeyVSqLYsH5nUK4TvacF6Sp4Q6orA3x5f0Wry2hPaQghoAw/w360-h640/20230628_203352.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The garden has offered up glorious bounties already this year. <br />Strawberries were produced in abundance! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTSwPzjISxTdneAorjIeLjXk-PkxcBXqMseavZrB37GI2PjagKGlQo9ULQqnD_tr5jH2yjfxcqzKHiIpIs7UGwWgAQxVJoAS23zDcBxjdoA9dbG54ooDFL8YtvQv_aHD-Vp2riZbENeabnXEgAehCk2-CMy4WBVItfQmWXOl89hlq0_26wsig5hY-GQLN/s1115/20230629_133836.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTSwPzjISxTdneAorjIeLjXk-PkxcBXqMseavZrB37GI2PjagKGlQo9ULQqnD_tr5jH2yjfxcqzKHiIpIs7UGwWgAQxVJoAS23zDcBxjdoA9dbG54ooDFL8YtvQv_aHD-Vp2riZbENeabnXEgAehCk2-CMy4WBVItfQmWXOl89hlq0_26wsig5hY-GQLN/w640-h360/20230629_133836.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have enjoyed hosting garden tea parties... </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidniIzvX2h2fFRic86w7T0DrH0iy8j5A1yhG3_G7qykNjyfIVE7evXuF7rxjKUp3vgRKKxDLat9ab8Egu_ew9ugTCs2RNdz9KGp8b1XyIW1Vylcwx67n-fFm5oN-W2dYH-7t5xORNoY6E4Z4NyZQW6bs0PK_s01tOxs1_5pWdcv4To0-iNMTFLydrhbOj1/s1115/20230629_124046.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidniIzvX2h2fFRic86w7T0DrH0iy8j5A1yhG3_G7qykNjyfIVE7evXuF7rxjKUp3vgRKKxDLat9ab8Egu_ew9ugTCs2RNdz9KGp8b1XyIW1Vylcwx67n-fFm5oN-W2dYH-7t5xORNoY6E4Z4NyZQW6bs0PK_s01tOxs1_5pWdcv4To0-iNMTFLydrhbOj1/w640-h360/20230629_124046.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihwliVUWPP8uCaApHJvUfvAO2A-GLlAg30jnclR4udLKfZ1k_tbKLvR70dx0_2Ia9NsLdJj6pCPjhMxKqn6jvABRNcBsSIC0pg19jGZYb44ir4LSPJbF1lAmdSPfipI2D4P3lVlRCHttKHSZPVTVhnyuOcDXyRrbSDoYC026VD4x4j8ekSNv4vx-mXeKC/s1115/20230629_124106.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihwliVUWPP8uCaApHJvUfvAO2A-GLlAg30jnclR4udLKfZ1k_tbKLvR70dx0_2Ia9NsLdJj6pCPjhMxKqn6jvABRNcBsSIC0pg19jGZYb44ir4LSPJbF1lAmdSPfipI2D4P3lVlRCHttKHSZPVTVhnyuOcDXyRrbSDoYC026VD4x4j8ekSNv4vx-mXeKC/w640-h360/20230629_124106.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WyEYlsA1mWgd2WYtOuUFZSnyBLmJaZHwVjdSBsw1lWt0Ep3YpSmG_uv8bELC_E-w1AwShwtZOfS_CUfYCLIGH5MYV8TvAMzxKv_rY9LySOgkvchzWVvtBK9RqdLsKPNMXnjzllv1y8khPwxugOKkTMmYv0Nn4GQl51l2Y1xBF4ILZLcfhecJsvy_fvQk/s1115/20230702_164926.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WyEYlsA1mWgd2WYtOuUFZSnyBLmJaZHwVjdSBsw1lWt0Ep3YpSmG_uv8bELC_E-w1AwShwtZOfS_CUfYCLIGH5MYV8TvAMzxKv_rY9LySOgkvchzWVvtBK9RqdLsKPNMXnjzllv1y8khPwxugOKkTMmYv0Nn4GQl51l2Y1xBF4ILZLcfhecJsvy_fvQk/w640-h360/20230702_164926.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In July we and our son purchased an older model fishing boat. <br />We have since spent quite a few hours on the rivers and lakes with the boat. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-m4UXX6AG4tTCwMerGr08tt8djTMMxERp32PpWlEb09G87Qk7bzLS9SN8PFzeL4d3PjTB9g5D5B4aQWzduDugtj723nUalePwxMqiUKzNF6WcPq7XoKhD-bQ7vaOBSEtSVqTnJc_evtuPAHbZhNRJNbML8c61QfEO7UrHn_U-fZQ4Y5JkO64DVeyP5ox/s628/20230702_181356.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-m4UXX6AG4tTCwMerGr08tt8djTMMxERp32PpWlEb09G87Qk7bzLS9SN8PFzeL4d3PjTB9g5D5B4aQWzduDugtj723nUalePwxMqiUKzNF6WcPq7XoKhD-bQ7vaOBSEtSVqTnJc_evtuPAHbZhNRJNbML8c61QfEO7UrHn_U-fZQ4Y5JkO64DVeyP5ox/w360-h640/20230702_181356.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Watermelon is one of our favorite treats to enjoy while on the boat!<br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj56Av7b_a-IHGo1IJhTTR2PpQ3OZ-HFbkbS-7P3EX5RGqsukagVL6K3xGqnbnn-8l5hogJ6Ru3hnpji5HH1Z31jbns4Qhi0SfX47GAFi4KLC9CV-gNASe6ubUYqgyL6qtgBN5sODC7VCFnH-5DlThbeKk_kSxgPEnqCyMo-KlSMWK1iKv42H3a5TFQdjTr/s1115/20230703_110926.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj56Av7b_a-IHGo1IJhTTR2PpQ3OZ-HFbkbS-7P3EX5RGqsukagVL6K3xGqnbnn-8l5hogJ6Ru3hnpji5HH1Z31jbns4Qhi0SfX47GAFi4KLC9CV-gNASe6ubUYqgyL6qtgBN5sODC7VCFnH-5DlThbeKk_kSxgPEnqCyMo-KlSMWK1iKv42H3a5TFQdjTr/w640-h360/20230703_110926.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A neighbor invited me over for a tea party on the deck of her gorgeous log home <br />built by she and her husband. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVjH15kpXfQwCT_v7wtKuGgZzI2W5asoUq2b-zHB5wxVl0W--dJtc6HEfrSjlBDTayp69punrhmmAeysPd7dZNSR2m2A3c2s7xQaY5Au-sBH2sNbtC8YtU-Hf_1wI85yzZWdp8nP2ADAT3Tu-WuWhyE-yOtNVotIrBC7zPChJSGY3K401LHaL_-p0tJVu/s1115/20230703_112037.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVjH15kpXfQwCT_v7wtKuGgZzI2W5asoUq2b-zHB5wxVl0W--dJtc6HEfrSjlBDTayp69punrhmmAeysPd7dZNSR2m2A3c2s7xQaY5Au-sBH2sNbtC8YtU-Hf_1wI85yzZWdp8nP2ADAT3Tu-WuWhyE-yOtNVotIrBC7zPChJSGY3K401LHaL_-p0tJVu/w640-h360/20230703_112037.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It was such a lovely treat to sit and visit each other! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1Ceft2ahgyJ3oLlg9KPJbKJpAWkrWqr-lmPEJMZyQ9c8IAD83OBY9vb2vV-Mo5Qj9FyJBUroexXAzwAyyTQOzFXSwi9jFadnAJOTJspDCohxE92B2Dbq0DtRyS11pFMF-5WCSzmNbyxolMu_1SxDJVYZsn6PailTpNjDi5vb1V9DUO8NrdVKYCIFCv2w/s628/20230703_185535.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1Ceft2ahgyJ3oLlg9KPJbKJpAWkrWqr-lmPEJMZyQ9c8IAD83OBY9vb2vV-Mo5Qj9FyJBUroexXAzwAyyTQOzFXSwi9jFadnAJOTJspDCohxE92B2Dbq0DtRyS11pFMF-5WCSzmNbyxolMu_1SxDJVYZsn6PailTpNjDi5vb1V9DUO8NrdVKYCIFCv2w/w360-h640/20230703_185535.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The garden has required much work - the weeds have been abundant! <br />My husband helps in the evenings when he can. How I appreciate his help with these tasks that can overwhelm me quickly!<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFr21YuHsEd-SxyTGUsj_zfz1BTZsCww-gn1gDuFewSKcdcfhmJ3_W9kRBjWh48L--VvaWEPfe-xcaQ5anqMehRoTD6AcA_mnTxssaDqbmmH_VeS3tO3Ah175Ef_XDwnJF6zDZcyOrIyavnMlRbaRUoQFK9w0WKasvrW26qTEJW-GOaPqdq5e6gwuBPrHZ/s628/20230704_093222.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFr21YuHsEd-SxyTGUsj_zfz1BTZsCww-gn1gDuFewSKcdcfhmJ3_W9kRBjWh48L--VvaWEPfe-xcaQ5anqMehRoTD6AcA_mnTxssaDqbmmH_VeS3tO3Ah175Ef_XDwnJF6zDZcyOrIyavnMlRbaRUoQFK9w0WKasvrW26qTEJW-GOaPqdq5e6gwuBPrHZ/w360-h640/20230704_093222.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We enjoyed quad rides together in the earlier part of the summer. <br />Now that it is so hot and dusty, we will wait until we get some rain. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvp0bVO8ItSeEqXpag-IS4BcT6xZGlgvNyuog4zwWVDMZeEY-oq6mXvQEjPFMsu7oX32CrphIkUinsCPanRqyfdIxLXIR6Q2LWCUd-tgZ9nCCG9b7vHLT6c8YWPgBGLB6hEK3oHnsWGPe7aVciCvf5okfCeEiRjTXTAP29mleCBrvS9ONLW5kNlGDWzfx/s628/20230704_145228.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvp0bVO8ItSeEqXpag-IS4BcT6xZGlgvNyuog4zwWVDMZeEY-oq6mXvQEjPFMsu7oX32CrphIkUinsCPanRqyfdIxLXIR6Q2LWCUd-tgZ9nCCG9b7vHLT6c8YWPgBGLB6hEK3oHnsWGPe7aVciCvf5okfCeEiRjTXTAP29mleCBrvS9ONLW5kNlGDWzfx/w360-h640/20230704_145228.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our little boat! It is small, but we are enjoying it immensely! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><span><br /></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKwskh_0I1JvrEVjenmoY4PHobv1mHmV0iDETHoxsiEII90mdIDHgX-v72kXetoqBefoZxRZOhZsMg7-bkOY_WoRzWC8o6ADHwbKJPEmCyraPNyIPN7bHa9wDMVLkLyCih2ayM_KgGUMtGJw0FDU1BzIRntrtyzj-ur8-rFWGDlTrbvOtAPWy_ex_6K4x/s628/20230706_114341.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKwskh_0I1JvrEVjenmoY4PHobv1mHmV0iDETHoxsiEII90mdIDHgX-v72kXetoqBefoZxRZOhZsMg7-bkOY_WoRzWC8o6ADHwbKJPEmCyraPNyIPN7bHa9wDMVLkLyCih2ayM_KgGUMtGJw0FDU1BzIRntrtyzj-ur8-rFWGDlTrbvOtAPWy_ex_6K4x/w360-h640/20230706_114341.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've had lots of chipmunk visitors to the garden this year. They have eaten their fair share of lettuce, dill, marigolds, and cilantro! They are cute but very destructive! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zNYaGK5sPB30sOQMTGDShtMn8oNLCuUDDd5L_UoCK8p45aLi_5VgL2xX-vjrinZF5ihceu4e8ExkvMZzH0zdunmk3tFEK2LBXxCYssEUiiRnvvef1UlnVBRLWY-oNqAmr5-dPNgzAQPV9w7erU5f07MM6l_laLbf9mcs9ipG78lLP6aeYzPWpFRzp2Rd/s1092/20230706_201103.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1092" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zNYaGK5sPB30sOQMTGDShtMn8oNLCuUDDd5L_UoCK8p45aLi_5VgL2xX-vjrinZF5ihceu4e8ExkvMZzH0zdunmk3tFEK2LBXxCYssEUiiRnvvef1UlnVBRLWY-oNqAmr5-dPNgzAQPV9w7erU5f07MM6l_laLbf9mcs9ipG78lLP6aeYzPWpFRzp2Rd/w640-h368/20230706_201103.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dan and I went camping on the northern end of Priest Lake with Miss Riley. What a beautiful relaxing time it was for us. The campsite was right on the beach with these glorious views! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCvJTsy2xuqTSGuYewUj3hNSXKMwdeILRJxcOuzYu4FN0t76YxfnZcf0RMB0S5eEa927OUsSFY0Jc8xyA0xHQrLMM4kBNTWVTC-d5BGMqVV-hosKt6L1t5ZTOXf2-eUDosPY-Bq-2grgV-7jGPBPZKmYL019F0XLR1IQQCwlqCI-zR9-gm22q7G7z4fKy/s1115/20230707_105130.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCvJTsy2xuqTSGuYewUj3hNSXKMwdeILRJxcOuzYu4FN0t76YxfnZcf0RMB0S5eEa927OUsSFY0Jc8xyA0xHQrLMM4kBNTWVTC-d5BGMqVV-hosKt6L1t5ZTOXf2-eUDosPY-Bq-2grgV-7jGPBPZKmYL019F0XLR1IQQCwlqCI-zR9-gm22q7G7z4fKy/w640-h360/20230707_105130.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We went for a ride up some old logging trails - our favorite thing to do! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4N_6b5MF_tdchdpVSys1YjyQ_Tha1sK3iPjvPt7HCJ3pI6Muc74N2iBzllzCG6F-PEYObCCN42iWJIODQENZ3Vii4H56UjLFAQxtm1MaAVwzLWAtsqTNpHK9IwRK4lDZi6pitHJtDfk-bGTsebrGivvJHUPiJoYc6OH1-B-qAAFw0AKhqaKOOnsayXpdE/s1115/20230707_171616.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4N_6b5MF_tdchdpVSys1YjyQ_Tha1sK3iPjvPt7HCJ3pI6Muc74N2iBzllzCG6F-PEYObCCN42iWJIODQENZ3Vii4H56UjLFAQxtm1MaAVwzLWAtsqTNpHK9IwRK4lDZi6pitHJtDfk-bGTsebrGivvJHUPiJoYc6OH1-B-qAAFw0AKhqaKOOnsayXpdE/w640-h360/20230707_171616.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We enjoyed cruising around the lake with our new-to-us boat. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KiWU-zKhPmLkfwGKGKPwVUcv0wJ-aM8fWNhazfcuj6J7EStU-SHg02ViJeCzE-vjSZ_i8Nq_JU2hU9wu-HbR_A7qclktVIXeaHyKFXfkSQxZ6TwQdjgoqTp9FuhWm5l1EgS9BVk3pOY1VQM3eLUGiVUptPsoBitj7SuNBdwNujJc35vsHdoQ7wn_sOkw/s1115/20230707_181623.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KiWU-zKhPmLkfwGKGKPwVUcv0wJ-aM8fWNhazfcuj6J7EStU-SHg02ViJeCzE-vjSZ_i8Nq_JU2hU9wu-HbR_A7qclktVIXeaHyKFXfkSQxZ6TwQdjgoqTp9FuhWm5l1EgS9BVk3pOY1VQM3eLUGiVUptPsoBitj7SuNBdwNujJc35vsHdoQ7wn_sOkw/w640-h360/20230707_181623.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So quiet and peaceful, and the views are glorious! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholwbdfKoOmuMshcapFpdSvseljQicFsFLIxdIs9Jt4xgqn1Opz5YZ7athpf55RVW4fCjf2bS_pFpHPquK-r-AH3AtgJS16b_ngxM44AOoo2HpsYrRZs7w6zEZ-pcTsYIW-EJCayPF94dOOPecihsTghm6LMS9gkDlL0yCNMHhyS48RpzYecAzoDMEkfn_/s628/20230707_181744.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholwbdfKoOmuMshcapFpdSvseljQicFsFLIxdIs9Jt4xgqn1Opz5YZ7athpf55RVW4fCjf2bS_pFpHPquK-r-AH3AtgJS16b_ngxM44AOoo2HpsYrRZs7w6zEZ-pcTsYIW-EJCayPF94dOOPecihsTghm6LMS9gkDlL0yCNMHhyS48RpzYecAzoDMEkfn_/w360-h640/20230707_181744.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Riley enjoys riding in the front of the boat, keeping an eye out for the ducks! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><span><br /></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XFvgWEeIqnNTYk_LVPbPtzB7_iCWclH0Nrk7zhMzncVRxpcMwkmmsucWJKkjDEEBwBWrOpMsQ5avuGO1K5zmNIZJz6xb733j5Kt14OjkNj27kCeQoXuyRiKDCiS4qSPAGBzYml6sY7Mp8o2rxtp6jASVaw-3r8z6zYpnIIsuO0hhSsfcLAD21TNYP6f8/s1115/20230708_154916.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XFvgWEeIqnNTYk_LVPbPtzB7_iCWclH0Nrk7zhMzncVRxpcMwkmmsucWJKkjDEEBwBWrOpMsQ5avuGO1K5zmNIZJz6xb733j5Kt14OjkNj27kCeQoXuyRiKDCiS4qSPAGBzYml6sY7Mp8o2rxtp6jASVaw-3r8z6zYpnIIsuO0hhSsfcLAD21TNYP6f8/w640-h360/20230708_154916.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Spotted this sailboat one afternoon - against the beautiful backdrop of the mountains! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span></span><br /><span></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift1twYD3XSmY6veuY3K8cbus7k7mKaUxbewdsoBArtofNgOn0OENgupWIMnC5SErzRggBijrqj-_dJLF5f5Osm3VamTd6t4N8303HWzAw3hdR6MKjIHVOdTUZfc-T-4CKKQ0m_vejccfCnWJjGFYPwd6uiT1tPUnLEyyQo2ZRSfKB1Ic6n-KwFDYD0T_Y/s1115/20230709_075259.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift1twYD3XSmY6veuY3K8cbus7k7mKaUxbewdsoBArtofNgOn0OENgupWIMnC5SErzRggBijrqj-_dJLF5f5Osm3VamTd6t4N8303HWzAw3hdR6MKjIHVOdTUZfc-T-4CKKQ0m_vejccfCnWJjGFYPwd6uiT1tPUnLEyyQo2ZRSfKB1Ic6n-KwFDYD0T_Y/w640-h360/20230709_075259.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Beautiful wildflowers along the bank of the lake. <br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_aQk-tNnQ5BXd3e9K4d0bi6pvJAyOyX6hU8ElZEI-53iaFSBAWFbt5PUlpDFMtc6qqIshEOseHEH7KyzWGCyWRZdVzAz64UFo1j9W3LamAB5DLef1oXxhOjiTJGrFW-JDh8zr-WtBehPu_-M0s9Ar8-UepGJBs7oOW4u_1uvicxOZk2cVDTWNhZb_SVo/s1115/20230709_084845.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_aQk-tNnQ5BXd3e9K4d0bi6pvJAyOyX6hU8ElZEI-53iaFSBAWFbt5PUlpDFMtc6qqIshEOseHEH7KyzWGCyWRZdVzAz64UFo1j9W3LamAB5DLef1oXxhOjiTJGrFW-JDh8zr-WtBehPu_-M0s9Ar8-UepGJBs7oOW4u_1uvicxOZk2cVDTWNhZb_SVo/w640-h360/20230709_084845.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We hiked along a creekbed - so peaceful and beautiful<br />as the afternoon sunshine filtered through the trees. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbLp3WiCNma3HMLAdGGRGjZ8HKMWAzTbjgy03Wt6Lsjva9hJ865NfMqSGz_ri-sgHa_xkKLCz6X1JIqVwN4Frh9x9fdGwFKULUdLl2AbiQbnV7-aQ-3yVSJBT5EzhhUPucCygT4md-zQBVmDmoh5PNgq5rhhWwV2UVUR4B5_kWpN9xSUmb_iIeEejdQI9/s628/20230711_180645.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbLp3WiCNma3HMLAdGGRGjZ8HKMWAzTbjgy03Wt6Lsjva9hJ865NfMqSGz_ri-sgHa_xkKLCz6X1JIqVwN4Frh9x9fdGwFKULUdLl2AbiQbnV7-aQ-3yVSJBT5EzhhUPucCygT4md-zQBVmDmoh5PNgq5rhhWwV2UVUR4B5_kWpN9xSUmb_iIeEejdQI9/w480-h640/20230711_180645.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />Back home - Dan and I celebrated our anniversary together by getting huckleberry ice cream after a meal together. My Dad was almost always here every year for our anniversary as he would often come up to visit in July. So we enjoyed huckleberry ice cream in memory of him! Dan and I sat outside the little burger place in town where my Dad and I would often go and sit and enjoy ice cream together. We cried and reminisced our memories of Dad. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkDAvhswdhrqqUxaph9wFAeDmA1E1AddoflIR_QB1o_W4XF-NxRW-kQigm5A7DGizIx-1DTa5uw4374k9PjR8Uub5n2KTM9a4OjL42fWYVJrdg387vuaeS7HrLN7ekNlkN_ygkFJ7rw4iZ0HrhXnHGdVpIx9MWyfxBm7eu3PAHhx4QCxShxh9OLPO-MpzC/s628/20230712_120843.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0h4zg1Cx9OQ-1b8VpeLrr4aREzmUPys69EKfYLXP6i-_j7TLjdiSENicAThu6RuRF39uvX5EJOC_PTfWwakPSfXu3VO8V_XDHrswT7t6tUAQP3OzLksQFTZMqEdpjL5Hb1NE6f-08-r37KA77QFbF9rpq-nLkMYOHOJ8boXxbEy2uJIE6S9nbsBxSS_G/s628/20230710_202044.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0h4zg1Cx9OQ-1b8VpeLrr4aREzmUPys69EKfYLXP6i-_j7TLjdiSENicAThu6RuRF39uvX5EJOC_PTfWwakPSfXu3VO8V_XDHrswT7t6tUAQP3OzLksQFTZMqEdpjL5Hb1NE6f-08-r37KA77QFbF9rpq-nLkMYOHOJ8boXxbEy2uJIE6S9nbsBxSS_G/w360-h640/20230710_202044.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The garden is doing splendidly this year - <br />my clematis burst out in glorious purple blooms <br />over the trellis! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmP3_xZE9ncN49r8Xhsmc1QChBFNC2zXnsPNjNrXF6UrT8gFlfo5jv4VvavtNogtaDc6t_4UJ6Rhc5inKLcGzN2C6KN6BUymt-nZe7DU0BO20InxzI7wkFUyn9HS4i2wTGhJ3TxcoALUJyvd1N-x9ARqQzIGgQKxQIhgaSB5oGQj9257FZIwyY3JFgN-Zk/w640-h360/20230712_144241.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Berry picking has been abundant this year - I am thankful to have many gallons of huckleberries picked, frozen and in my freezer to enjoy! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmP3_xZE9ncN49r8Xhsmc1QChBFNC2zXnsPNjNrXF6UrT8gFlfo5jv4VvavtNogtaDc6t_4UJ6Rhc5inKLcGzN2C6KN6BUymt-nZe7DU0BO20InxzI7wkFUyn9HS4i2wTGhJ3TxcoALUJyvd1N-x9ARqQzIGgQKxQIhgaSB5oGQj9257FZIwyY3JFgN-Zk/s1115/20230712_144241.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="471" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIP5G0G2evzWvPB5LuBdNl7eKVznNDkUIebfHH-IJMnY-oPFBiEgLG2zeNGNb_Ytev7IPJU6YxKQuqIC0fMyV90WhjPOPDNj_59jneWCGipexibksCsD3ujFds6fRALHvQfKCJV9gTPA3w4reKf-B3pO8PwUyQlrCBMHN6skj_1rYRq49EN-NPbgfOoTN2/w480-h640/20230713_093758.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Raspberries were amazing this year! Really - every berry that grows here has given us a great bounty!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIP5G0G2evzWvPB5LuBdNl7eKVznNDkUIebfHH-IJMnY-oPFBiEgLG2zeNGNb_Ytev7IPJU6YxKQuqIC0fMyV90WhjPOPDNj_59jneWCGipexibksCsD3ujFds6fRALHvQfKCJV9gTPA3w4reKf-B3pO8PwUyQlrCBMHN6skj_1rYRq49EN-NPbgfOoTN2/s628/20230713_093758.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ffj1d5fnQ7HUwl1SKNGmUMNtWWzB_irqCZz7YV-vD5Y5uMV8aJvmb29Y5CfVojuop5HimgfGvkdtubnvIOxq0BTLpJKL5KzfWHvhrUPk1XvmsCX-rratrTRgJcM4YL7ybO5bcUOVGWBTrDZVdO89UibY9xKByTH3PiALllJCdIkM4GeMJz9V9BeQAFYx/w640-h360/20230713_191736.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Another view of my garden with the clematis on the trellis.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ffj1d5fnQ7HUwl1SKNGmUMNtWWzB_irqCZz7YV-vD5Y5uMV8aJvmb29Y5CfVojuop5HimgfGvkdtubnvIOxq0BTLpJKL5KzfWHvhrUPk1XvmsCX-rratrTRgJcM4YL7ybO5bcUOVGWBTrDZVdO89UibY9xKByTH3PiALllJCdIkM4GeMJz9V9BeQAFYx/s1115/20230713_191736.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcofUB1_Kc0JRJkXeZXM_8KVkZtdPeDt7z2bq3Jhl-aPbXCrDlRdcWC2Nq0oiiLkvCTjMlWxu3KdMS2ZfpwHjW6rmnAdYMcXXv51sMMvnJfzWHspTdAp2fJeJkY_emobbD9G8DOU5XDKZy2DW_WILipLdmjt0xVkndRfzUB5CuQ9fDwaUNJoDOFX3Qkdwv/s1115/20230724_195325.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcofUB1_Kc0JRJkXeZXM_8KVkZtdPeDt7z2bq3Jhl-aPbXCrDlRdcWC2Nq0oiiLkvCTjMlWxu3KdMS2ZfpwHjW6rmnAdYMcXXv51sMMvnJfzWHspTdAp2fJeJkY_emobbD9G8DOU5XDKZy2DW_WILipLdmjt0xVkndRfzUB5CuQ9fDwaUNJoDOFX3Qkdwv/w640-h360/20230724_195325.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTo2J4iJN_WmiElVSksBQNae9jmVy1N9luuJ3UsIj7j-7551foNs_qbvFwkioOtAxymtvx8Xh864uJxl9aacKoLLaFap3K3O5W-KfBAejMIrtTzDQKObNOOmrFjxVH5567vnIBPy56tNoZG2PewNKpyy4HvEhmi5kuPiNsAj9fw68sPpbz7JQPQs_owC63/s1115/PSX_20230723_214509.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTo2J4iJN_WmiElVSksBQNae9jmVy1N9luuJ3UsIj7j-7551foNs_qbvFwkioOtAxymtvx8Xh864uJxl9aacKoLLaFap3K3O5W-KfBAejMIrtTzDQKObNOOmrFjxVH5567vnIBPy56tNoZG2PewNKpyy4HvEhmi5kuPiNsAj9fw68sPpbz7JQPQs_owC63/w640-h360/PSX_20230723_214509.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWTN5F2gALnIPfd-VqyqX5wQoRSHL7cVl_yvpCsesaP918qCZOOZU129P11OQETbclcEdtNzYkRssN94ZrHtv49Bl6A8iJspXHAL4UT7OG7ApcALqjC3rD80ZG_xRO_r34e02FW32se8QShVIrGhs_qfIUdkzhjIylRGfHfTh5inVH-_njKJ1mPWSdWN5/w640-h360/PSX_20230724_212628.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I am sure you can understand why I've been a bit absent on the blog these past couple of months, as I've had much to do in the beautiful garden space I am blessed to care for. I anticipate a marvelous harvest this year!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWTN5F2gALnIPfd-VqyqX5wQoRSHL7cVl_yvpCsesaP918qCZOOZU129P11OQETbclcEdtNzYkRssN94ZrHtv49Bl6A8iJspXHAL4UT7OG7ApcALqjC3rD80ZG_xRO_r34e02FW32se8QShVIrGhs_qfIUdkzhjIylRGfHfTh5inVH-_njKJ1mPWSdWN5/s1115/PSX_20230724_212628.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span><span style="font-size: medium; text-align: center;">The Northern Lights have been making regular appearances in our area, and just this past weekend, my husband and I were able to view them. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></div></span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWiLqVIQnrbUP5pWKUduDyJqF4vdixpgPhzeNwMFzy2fGABS_W34RBahSrMue3E1WzTS97Y8khFlp8I5MShbUSZU2D_xCt0heTxShF3jybOPAOKGHSmR6lbaF3aGpN-wCj_7stE1IZaz6VA1Svn7WRaMNVBjSdKdr2sKI9Fqg72Z34D0QndP1MvOt6qIM/s4000/PSX_20230805_071205.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWiLqVIQnrbUP5pWKUduDyJqF4vdixpgPhzeNwMFzy2fGABS_W34RBahSrMue3E1WzTS97Y8khFlp8I5MShbUSZU2D_xCt0heTxShF3jybOPAOKGHSmR6lbaF3aGpN-wCj_7stE1IZaz6VA1Svn7WRaMNVBjSdKdr2sKI9Fqg72Z34D0QndP1MvOt6qIM/w640-h360/PSX_20230805_071205.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have collected quite a few pictures of the aurora borealis or Northern Lights - and I put together another video with many of my Northern Lights. I hope you will enjoy the video paired with this beautiful song "You Are My Hiding Place" by Selah. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="399" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FHqcbPoxF3U" width="480" youtube-src-id="FHqcbPoxF3U"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><span><br /></span></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the dark and troubled world we are living in - isn't it a wonderful thing to know that we can find peace, safety, and comfort in our Hiding Place, the arms of the Lord! I pray that the Lord's arms would wrap you in His love, and in spite of the troubled times we live in, there is a place we can dwell that is safe - and that is in His care! Blessings to all of you! </span></p><p><br /></p></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-44534676670625169762023-07-14T12:01:00.006-07:002023-07-14T12:06:14.328-07:00Fly High, Dad! <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On Friday morning, June 9th my Dad passed away unexpectedly on his front porch at their home in Texas. I remember where I was standing in the house when Dan called me. Dan was working down in Texas at the time, and he had just backed our semi into their yard and brought in his luggage. Dad stood up to open the door for him, as he sat on the front porch during the early morning hours when it was cooler. Dan went inside, dropped his luggage, and came back outside to sit and visit Dad. But, Dad was slumped over in his chair, and despite EMS arriving within 2 minutes of Dan's call, they were not able to revive him. He passed quickly, peacefully into the arms of Jesus without any of us getting a chance to say goodbye. Our hearts were broken. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dan called to tell me Dad was unresponsive, and they were working on him. I knew in my heart he was gone, but we all prayed desperately for the Lord to touch him one more time. It was not to be so. I quickly made airline reservations to fly out that afternoon and arrived in Texas late that night. My Dad was gone - gone from this earth to his heavenly home, and reunion with his loved ones in heaven, gone to rest in the arms of Jesus. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The loss of him in our lives though - this is what we mourn. This is why we grieve and cry. I'll never hear my Dad's voice again, this side of heaven. But he lives on in my heart, his words, his love, his presence, what he meant to all who knew him! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlPxo6QtyYpFTXaCEMkCXW3WF8_ybaWnYq-M1kt-_CXzwpEylAuiSZjij4HKz-NaYE3WYJYai2L1jNixC14djdQtjiFBX8-Fg7jQkgynKhjPs_A2U9f39rdepSNlGkd7pPyCy36PeyPxhUebJix1adGxPTpu3DF6e_VXCNXkNIKlB3yAJ0XIGsF4ZlcVs/s1600/20230409_094710.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlPxo6QtyYpFTXaCEMkCXW3WF8_ybaWnYq-M1kt-_CXzwpEylAuiSZjij4HKz-NaYE3WYJYai2L1jNixC14djdQtjiFBX8-Fg7jQkgynKhjPs_A2U9f39rdepSNlGkd7pPyCy36PeyPxhUebJix1adGxPTpu3DF6e_VXCNXkNIKlB3yAJ0XIGsF4ZlcVs/w480-h640/20230409_094710.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The last picture of Dad and I together, on Easter Sunday morning of this year when <br />we went to church together. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmUlQ1hRn49KNMTfeTruYwWKmILT8B2IkmSgYxX5Gd0Y6hLN5bhFLnR8TdwkmtINAw_BaD4_AolGRRBzmaxONatkZNatrBJXAcO-zddIo8EcIps_8J78eYd6C090zrkTUgHooU3SoBdbNlsLGNE5X_84uiCRqSGtcbWHkEfyZeKws9E5vH1KZ1hH9IaiC/s1149/20230610_164208-046c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1149" data-original-width="892" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmUlQ1hRn49KNMTfeTruYwWKmILT8B2IkmSgYxX5Gd0Y6hLN5bhFLnR8TdwkmtINAw_BaD4_AolGRRBzmaxONatkZNatrBJXAcO-zddIo8EcIps_8J78eYd6C090zrkTUgHooU3SoBdbNlsLGNE5X_84uiCRqSGtcbWHkEfyZeKws9E5vH1KZ1hH9IaiC/w496-h640/20230610_164208-046c.jpg" width="496" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad loved classic cars and cowboy hats and enjoyed a good visit at Buc-ees. If you are from Texas, you know what Buc-ees is - if not - if you ever get to Texas, you need to visit this iconic convenience store. Dad loved Buc-ees! <br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGRKSVFSFKWoB6761t-wLQccYkXYrl4mp_KzzPv72aS7SMVWr6L21nQjswNGdJ7ByVa3WDizHzPGT641VfL7J7BxoJx-1yF7KElnEjQxz5TKmESt6AQL31tID9q58gLVhWpYlI28udgYpAa_JQhxWn47M7fdONreFx66Odpe2C2xrBoMMiqXtfHs-wqzl/s2048/20230610_144209-e776.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGRKSVFSFKWoB6761t-wLQccYkXYrl4mp_KzzPv72aS7SMVWr6L21nQjswNGdJ7ByVa3WDizHzPGT641VfL7J7BxoJx-1yF7KElnEjQxz5TKmESt6AQL31tID9q58gLVhWpYlI28udgYpAa_JQhxWn47M7fdONreFx66Odpe2C2xrBoMMiqXtfHs-wqzl/s320/20230610_144209-e776.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad and I on a recent visit to Buc-ees. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxq-aopyJre3BkwJbX-ycL2h8oDuWilXA-toL4wMYzJKvhLgw_Erp1l0oLs43j61iMdFl6VZoiZ9cOhweCAp81_rhNVfWVZpi5IWT6jTnSOBq-TyBP5yNzM1eTqyEx90JOiY1JXdqG3Qgpdkl8rxO8JYQY42SYzfaWDiC50iNCwRZ3j99txkdyaVO5pFR/s2048/20230610_162051-c73c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1796" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxq-aopyJre3BkwJbX-ycL2h8oDuWilXA-toL4wMYzJKvhLgw_Erp1l0oLs43j61iMdFl6VZoiZ9cOhweCAp81_rhNVfWVZpi5IWT6jTnSOBq-TyBP5yNzM1eTqyEx90JOiY1JXdqG3Qgpdkl8rxO8JYQY42SYzfaWDiC50iNCwRZ3j99txkdyaVO5pFR/w562-h640/20230610_162051-c73c.jpg" width="562" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad remained a citizen of Canada all the years after moving to Texas, but he loved the United States of America and the blessing of the freedoms it meant for all of us! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFf_QG7OLzZ_HzqASk_eeNJO5oaGPJ9FujQeSqOXn23rbkk8w09WrjTfLbxvP172avx4J0XeHSmTMFIp4PgNKTZxpF1JukCHUFuMopqrPTBnRaRpIkA8rDz2K0rKRTI89MmYcwjkl4l1nNcjGRZ8Nre859P5vXVGxXUbK3hk1ajDh-oEI4mMeF3jbzRpW/s1600/20230610_141520-bcfb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFf_QG7OLzZ_HzqASk_eeNJO5oaGPJ9FujQeSqOXn23rbkk8w09WrjTfLbxvP172avx4J0XeHSmTMFIp4PgNKTZxpF1JukCHUFuMopqrPTBnRaRpIkA8rDz2K0rKRTI89MmYcwjkl4l1nNcjGRZ8Nre859P5vXVGxXUbK3hk1ajDh-oEI4mMeF3jbzRpW/w640-h480/20230610_141520-bcfb.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On my last visit at Easter, Dad, Mom, and I enjoyed the day together - I took them out to eat at a quaint diner, The Twisted Fork, and we got this fun picture together. How thankful I am for these memories! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLQogbYRik4_tKCIy0d7F0LRUX-ORRtSXoqkW6efykWHl6v-waOS01-vASmcOwu_w4NfpOjqRVG835k4VKiZBkwmVlR4RZNkYyj4PGrQpRqJI7vBpo2PIHS6M-vse8DUXK2Yr_IlN0Ogi0Vh9idot5Z4q6LLzTbtQbaA-23YK7MdHwzj5332fN_VOSEst/s2048/20230610_141519-359f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLQogbYRik4_tKCIy0d7F0LRUX-ORRtSXoqkW6efykWHl6v-waOS01-vASmcOwu_w4NfpOjqRVG835k4VKiZBkwmVlR4RZNkYyj4PGrQpRqJI7vBpo2PIHS6M-vse8DUXK2Yr_IlN0Ogi0Vh9idot5Z4q6LLzTbtQbaA-23YK7MdHwzj5332fN_VOSEst/w360-h640/20230610_141519-359f.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad came up every summer to spend several weeks with us. <br />We always ate lots and lots of huckleberry sundaes and ice cream! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz5gi_S177JGna_XxXYiKRCz-91-0yhhDTJev5xr1Syc_t5kAsvDhHaSBPTy5WM4lk7gxan8Pj8l9bkC5xwaCcZTC8BQpeBVR8QyJZPoer6Ye-fKmS60CkeN9bhbJHyllxo8_Vr3PW2msSGVn1IIyi8sFGT1Jey9lLj4uWfwyQaVD0Dj-ftPdkkr-rudK/s1600/20221118_101446.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz5gi_S177JGna_XxXYiKRCz-91-0yhhDTJev5xr1Syc_t5kAsvDhHaSBPTy5WM4lk7gxan8Pj8l9bkC5xwaCcZTC8BQpeBVR8QyJZPoer6Ye-fKmS60CkeN9bhbJHyllxo8_Vr3PW2msSGVn1IIyi8sFGT1Jey9lLj4uWfwyQaVD0Dj-ftPdkkr-rudK/w480-h640/20221118_101446.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">When we went for a visit at Easter, we went for a drive in Dad's old pickup. <br />Sweet and precious memories they are to me now! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQmiC85V_vE-wYFoxOGcMgsfnRXkqRYYp6CpHw3cSGbpLbZVX99EVc5cFKIfVn2zSNikcPFkR46DegdlEhLGr_Js1JwiI94wpQd1HXJz2Z6f1OUg5nnxh3DWo6vXOyAN7DjaZFdE_MCYF_pNRjGZJASrAVC4H0E_4gvEstCote-e4pi24EyZr_N2aK6rVp/s1440/68475.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQmiC85V_vE-wYFoxOGcMgsfnRXkqRYYp6CpHw3cSGbpLbZVX99EVc5cFKIfVn2zSNikcPFkR46DegdlEhLGr_Js1JwiI94wpQd1HXJz2Z6f1OUg5nnxh3DWo6vXOyAN7DjaZFdE_MCYF_pNRjGZJASrAVC4H0E_4gvEstCote-e4pi24EyZr_N2aK6rVp/w480-h640/68475.jpeg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Ryan and Dad with Ryan's dog, Gus, went for a ride in Dad's pickup, <br />this was back in the early spring of this year.<br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekTy5e3OF1FskiPKiUKO8iyK_QEx4N5I6fGWG4kYYsEpnShu51bFVdELYS5UCB0yMX8QnwT-S1aJi4c11nd2FoaO-wpECDRw6WMbaiUzAWoTej9MVtNpYyIJd7Nzhq8sdLaKTCCzz7-A_RnlfpSXHTHkBTWWWUZ49ui0eG8Ii_UCJWhu7-Ir8A5-xv80o/s3600/Moseley-347.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekTy5e3OF1FskiPKiUKO8iyK_QEx4N5I6fGWG4kYYsEpnShu51bFVdELYS5UCB0yMX8QnwT-S1aJi4c11nd2FoaO-wpECDRw6WMbaiUzAWoTej9MVtNpYyIJd7Nzhq8sdLaKTCCzz7-A_RnlfpSXHTHkBTWWWUZ49ui0eG8Ii_UCJWhu7-Ir8A5-xv80o/w640-h426/Moseley-347.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad made it to Ryan's wedding last June, even though he had a heart attack the day before. He was in the hospital most of the time on his visit here, but he was determined not to miss the festivities! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxtr69GbKQCd8P-hPOyQ6bRlfhdWduzfVXOzWedLVh77OHQcy91uysn5Zf-UMmWc8k5CrWl7pA3HutESUdCnY9h4bwNaG1WQ04pLeZyA7rjC-oqvrgqmzxk7XTbclj-KXYyIPV_ZNZzrZNhbgrYpQG3psoPCrmJ8SBAPQYgHckyi0suCyFF5pLJ9QG3zx/s3648/20220630_115633.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxtr69GbKQCd8P-hPOyQ6bRlfhdWduzfVXOzWedLVh77OHQcy91uysn5Zf-UMmWc8k5CrWl7pA3HutESUdCnY9h4bwNaG1WQ04pLeZyA7rjC-oqvrgqmzxk7XTbclj-KXYyIPV_ZNZzrZNhbgrYpQG3psoPCrmJ8SBAPQYgHckyi0suCyFF5pLJ9QG3zx/s320/20220630_115633.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad spent several days in the hospital before being released to travel back home to Texas. This was the last picture I took with him and Mom as they left Idaho last June. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">One of the hardest things about losing Dad was not having that chance to say goodbye to him one last time. The day before in the garden, I had a long 23-minute chat with him, and we talked about a lot of things - but if I had known that would be our last conversation, I would have talked to him for hours! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Dad and I talked daily on the phone, he called all of us children regularly, but he called me just about every day as he knew I was walking or was in the garden, and I always had time to talk. Many of my siblings have jobs that didn't allow them that freedom. I'm so thankful for every time the phone rang and I got to hear my Dad's voice. He was my greatest cheerleader - for all of us kids. He had a hearty jolly laugh and wit and was always spot on with his advice and insights. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On the airplane flying to Texas to be with my family, I began to write. On the first leg of my flight from Spokane to Denver, I wrote my tribute to my Dad that I shared at his funeral. Each of us 5 children spoke. It was so very special, and a beautiful going-away service for my Dad. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On the second leg of my flight, from Denver to San Antonio, we encountered extreme turbulence in the airways. In fact, the flight attendants remained seated as did all passengers for the entire flight, and no one was even allowed to go to the bathroom for the 2+ hour-long flight. As the plane shook and rumbled in the turbulence, I began to contemplate life - much like the writer of Ecclesiastes had done. I wrote the following using my phone - as paper and pen were impossible. It helped to keep my mind focused on what the Lord was speaking to my heart in the midst of the turbulent flight. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">TIMESTAMP </span></u></b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><i>What's in a moment of time? Why does
time pass so quickly in moments of bliss and joy, yet the moment of deep sorrow
and pain feels endless and relentless? <o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>How can the same quantity and entity
of time be so different in each life? As we traverse Earth's journey one step
at a time, each step can be marked with a timestamp - for one a lifetime in a
moment, for others a breath too short. How do we comprehend the vast reality of
time in human bodies that bear the mark of life's time journey? Some look aged
and worn at 40, others at 60 still young and vibrant. Some bodies are healthy, and
others struggle with health for their entire timestamp on earth. How does a
blink of an eye, a moment of time transpire so quickly for one, and yet drag on
with prolonged agony for another? </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>In one day, in a moment, a child is
born, a new life brought into this world, a cry announcing its
arrival, celebrated with rejoicing - yet on that same day, in the
blink of an eye, a precious loved one - gone, with sad cries of hearts broken
by its loss. Gone from this earthly world - no time for goodbyes, no last words
shared, no love you's to speak into hearts. Time stops in one moment, and in
another, time begins.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Wrapping my mind around this reality
is quite frankly, impossible. It's often called the circle of life. The writer
of Ecclesiastes pondered this truth too. A time to live and a time to die... a
time for all things, good and bad.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Hurts, shattered dreams, broken
promises, failures - so much of what is broken in our humanity lies within a
timestamp. Yet, marked also are the joys of hearing a baby's first cry,
smelling the rich fragrance of garden peonies, hearing loved ones say I love
you, being wrapped in the embrace of the one you love, and the delight of
watching the rain drip from the skies, watering the earth, and for the
joyous love of Jesus that can rinse your soul of its dirt and grime,
refresh and renew under the waterspout of His grace and mercy. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>What does the timestamp of life hold?
What marks the measure of time in life? </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Each of us has a different file, our
own number, and our own reality. What can we fill ours with that really
matters, that will be the hallmark when the timestamp seals, and is written: "Done". Will it be well done, thou good and faithful servant? Will
surrendering your life to Jesus mark each moment of your life with a
covering of His grace and love? Or will you endeavor and strive to make life your
own, alone? </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Remember - each life has a
timestamp and its length unknown. Live each day without regrets-
aware that life is not guaranteed beyond our next breath. Live with love, joy, and peace. Gather each moment of your life like a bouquet of flowers, knowing
that its season can and will end, but is to be enjoyed fully in the
moment. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Don't wait another day - or for that
perfect moment - instead live each and every breath of your life aware of your
timestamp, it is being marked. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Make it count. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The day my Dad died, coincided with several big events in our family. A great-niece was born early on the morning on June 9, 2023 hours before Dad passed. And 73 years before, on June 9, 1950, his sister Helen Elayne was stillborn due to a doctor's error giving too much ether to my grandmother. Dad died on the day his sister would have been born, 73 years previously. When I wrote the "Timestamp" piece on the airplane, I was not aware of the date of his death coinciding with the death of his younger sister. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I shared this verse at Dad's going away service. It sums up the beauty of his life lived. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Ecclesiastes 3:11-15 </span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">He has made everything beautiful in its time. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">He has also set eternity in the human heart, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">yet no one can fathom </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">what God has done from beginning to end. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I know that there is nothing better for people </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">than to be happy and to do good </span></i><i><span style="font-size: medium;">while they live. </span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">That each of them may eat and drink </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and find satisfaction in all their toil—</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">this is the gift of God.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> I know that everything God does will endure forever; </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">nothing can be added to it </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and nothing taken from it. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">God does it so that people will fear him. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Whatever is has already been, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and what will be has been before, </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and God will call the past to account.</span></i></div></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6jXrmAKBBTU" width="320" youtube-src-id="6jXrmAKBBTU"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><span>One of my brothers wanted this song played for my father's slideshow. I think it shares the essence of his life, well lived, and his loss is bittersweet - I am so happy to think of him in the presence of Jesus - but I miss his presence here on earth, so very much! </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span>Fly high Dad - we are looking forward to the heavenly reunion that we are promised someday! </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> </span></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /><p></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-13447298444849458092023-07-04T06:33:00.001-07:002023-07-04T06:33:30.520-07:00Happy Independence Day!<p>Just a quick post today to wish everyone a Happy July 4th! I hope you have a wonderful and safe day celebrating this great country. </p><p>I am Canadian by birth as you all know and my heart is so grateful for the freedoms both countries have stood for. How blessed I am to enjoy the rich and bountiful blessings both Canada and USAhave given us. </p><p>As you celebrate today, be safe! And remember...all our freedoms were bought with great sacrifice, so may we never forget to be thankful! </p><p>God bless Canada 🇨🇦 and the 🇺🇸 USA!! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Za4GdUfQ-0A" width="320" youtube-src-id="Za4GdUfQ-0A"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-48972090039931187712023-05-31T12:49:00.001-07:002023-05-31T12:49:24.929-07:00May Blooms, May Days and More!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Spring has disappeared here in our neck of the woods! Summer has gobbled up Spring and is visiting us with the most decadent blooms and weather! We went from flannel jackets, hats, and gloves one day to summer attire the next! Like most people I've talked to - the weather all around has been very strange this year - no gentle changes from one season to another, but abrupt, rough, and hurried changes! We went from having temps in the 30s and 40s to the 80s almost the next day, and it's been hot ever since. Some of my springtime bloomers are confused and unsure of what to do. I lost a couple of my roses over the winter, my lavender even took a hit - it was just a rough winter! So, I have been working to clean up my beds. Springtime is full of lots of work - but when the blooms come - oh how I rejoice! </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fom7IUClROHkco6-qmwftEg9kYGgUVNP7gvlJ_fFSyAlWF15pkPdRg4QG4vpU3xvsc9XjGKL_ggBNXojpkgqalsSLh4b_n_nw9CIaSKaBwf9c_M-rZKlGLMkFrkXSwoJ6B5OPBsOhWggICAaR588BdUFXVqt-CFgithddodli76T0F1bLH58NmJfmg/s628/untitled-1-8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="603" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fom7IUClROHkco6-qmwftEg9kYGgUVNP7gvlJ_fFSyAlWF15pkPdRg4QG4vpU3xvsc9XjGKL_ggBNXojpkgqalsSLh4b_n_nw9CIaSKaBwf9c_M-rZKlGLMkFrkXSwoJ6B5OPBsOhWggICAaR588BdUFXVqt-CFgithddodli76T0F1bLH58NmJfmg/s320/untitled-1-8.jpg" width="307" /></span></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkGOojyjXlXGGF5cthIOgP8y49xi1St5KIx03k9zTfP5NBpkxpJIqCU3IR5Wry1RNIyWhyM4c_leGvB71_KMMJGB-ZbhofAX1vM8vd-hO-ojqHXTRW3RfLcjC-X3TqAdJ34QV1PiETegv3qXf8xHyV-EpZGkdrCY3y4nlRyKoKc8vYwwTG095Iwr36Q/s628/untitled-1-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkGOojyjXlXGGF5cthIOgP8y49xi1St5KIx03k9zTfP5NBpkxpJIqCU3IR5Wry1RNIyWhyM4c_leGvB71_KMMJGB-ZbhofAX1vM8vd-hO-ojqHXTRW3RfLcjC-X3TqAdJ34QV1PiETegv3qXf8xHyV-EpZGkdrCY3y4nlRyKoKc8vYwwTG095Iwr36Q/w360-h640/untitled-1-2.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We've had an incredible abundance of dandelions this year. One of the ways I like to enjoy dandelions is to make dandelion tea. It's very easy! <br /><br />Dandelion Tea<br />1 quart jar dandelion flower heads<br />2 black tea bags<br />3 cups boiling water, separated<br />sugar of choice to taste<br /><br />Rinse the dandelion flower heads with cool water, place in a bowl. Pour 1 cup boiling water over the dandelions and let sit for 10 minutes. Add remaining 2 cups boiling water to the 2 tea bags, and let steep for 5 minutes, stir in sugar of choice (I added 1/4 cup stevia). Pour tea concentrate into 1 gallon jar, and mix in the dandelions water mixture, stir gently. Fill gallon jar with water to the top. Cover jar and place in refrigerator for a couple hours. Remove dandelions, and serve tea over ice! <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTk0zfYhF1dzOuk0--Jc7esnl0TkRLuhvKZ6T-8y53G6BVBoYixYeL49ZcU0Z5GbQx0C5SnmvO8OIF-yM2-cyj2OLNmhZVniOhKF6ed-00uIBZQY6R4jhz6tbnchz71CWYE0Pxk5GiB53xwdvaA0wIVOLnoQdBZ811PbxAVhKLMutwNM1kK3HTLlfYg/s628/untitled-1-7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="510" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTk0zfYhF1dzOuk0--Jc7esnl0TkRLuhvKZ6T-8y53G6BVBoYixYeL49ZcU0Z5GbQx0C5SnmvO8OIF-yM2-cyj2OLNmhZVniOhKF6ed-00uIBZQY6R4jhz6tbnchz71CWYE0Pxk5GiB53xwdvaA0wIVOLnoQdBZ811PbxAVhKLMutwNM1kK3HTLlfYg/w520-h640/untitled-1-7.jpg" width="520" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I enjoyed my dandelion tea out in my She Shed! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvJDHCVxZIAz6Yc-eV_L2XSn-ncLj0BBW3AQlv-cCVWVd39PcGXVR4kc9e9bk1546GhvZPXODcWadlXw7W2lH1zw1D98S-2Sj8zjawkuDOpBhQfSsoBTStJO13fm6d_u9XxCFvxKf_ZmTy4qp6k03YVBlsPFpIsoPZT1BUbUszBeOS7TmO2Hw5R1MRA/s1115/untitled-1-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvJDHCVxZIAz6Yc-eV_L2XSn-ncLj0BBW3AQlv-cCVWVd39PcGXVR4kc9e9bk1546GhvZPXODcWadlXw7W2lH1zw1D98S-2Sj8zjawkuDOpBhQfSsoBTStJO13fm6d_u9XxCFvxKf_ZmTy4qp6k03YVBlsPFpIsoPZT1BUbUszBeOS7TmO2Hw5R1MRA/w640-h360/untitled-1-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Recently, most of you know I've been eating less sugar and while not completely keto, I am avoiding all processed foods and sugars. I made this chicken crust pizza recently, and it was amazing! Had wonderful flavor, and you really didn't miss the bread at all! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-Wc0CNHxH28-fk3SHUa2EUSBJlE8OIA2LctMfyWQ-FJRdEAzye6O3jqePNAaUR2W3djOancxO7OaPZkEIYm3B7t2QJtSykfCUpqrRNfpfZYXFOst6MedXhoRPPvOHnaugzWNZ_3SsLKRqWgoITUYqY2zBSCzZiEEScs6gjqMbqwIoNZeGdYAwVQzTw/s1115/untitled-1-4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-Wc0CNHxH28-fk3SHUa2EUSBJlE8OIA2LctMfyWQ-FJRdEAzye6O3jqePNAaUR2W3djOancxO7OaPZkEIYm3B7t2QJtSykfCUpqrRNfpfZYXFOst6MedXhoRPPvOHnaugzWNZ_3SsLKRqWgoITUYqY2zBSCzZiEEScs6gjqMbqwIoNZeGdYAwVQzTw/w640-h360/untitled-1-4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is the link to recipe I used. <br /><a href="https://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/low-carb-keto-chicken-crust-pizza-gluten-free-nut-free/" target="_blank">Chicken Crust Pizza</a><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wNQ9KrVd2-bKKNhApCfwgWY5V5oyYqiydlmkn3StAFH6HujENQGiRGP_3FxcWAnlxzu-L-kHJC9TdGlxo_cI1Z3040vEyoiawTn-OmOYMc6h7zo2XM1CLQfqLiLchwm4Wi1JG0ydKwEMdQmUZaVlp29hkv-XhoIelQW2MPXPGKQN1L7rmPRD8BsxOA/s628/untitled-1-5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wNQ9KrVd2-bKKNhApCfwgWY5V5oyYqiydlmkn3StAFH6HujENQGiRGP_3FxcWAnlxzu-L-kHJC9TdGlxo_cI1Z3040vEyoiawTn-OmOYMc6h7zo2XM1CLQfqLiLchwm4Wi1JG0ydKwEMdQmUZaVlp29hkv-XhoIelQW2MPXPGKQN1L7rmPRD8BsxOA/w360-h640/untitled-1-5.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I used a rotisserie chicken from Costco, made my own marinara sauce, and added fresh veggies and mozzarella cheese. It was truly a delicious and satisfying meal! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvA32Vjet9IBArRxhwFTR4HCChRihahVLEdFG3K7aqXP-Hg3dhC4CTa3J1jeeBghg9Z1JB2fcktX3-OJ9VmhQJU7tPnUUJsZTUJ0irS9c-hS1QbBxkHFs3D0EC_9LJiJDNwA3SvVqkizPGCm6HPpoNSNKS_yZr5udJK8Sn1khN-Ksqjr06Rb0SXjDaA/s1115/untitled-1-6.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvA32Vjet9IBArRxhwFTR4HCChRihahVLEdFG3K7aqXP-Hg3dhC4CTa3J1jeeBghg9Z1JB2fcktX3-OJ9VmhQJU7tPnUUJsZTUJ0irS9c-hS1QbBxkHFs3D0EC_9LJiJDNwA3SvVqkizPGCm6HPpoNSNKS_yZr5udJK8Sn1khN-Ksqjr06Rb0SXjDaA/w640-h360/untitled-1-6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Potatoes have been planted! Before I plant my seed potatoes I always let them sit in the sun for about 1 day, it prevents them from rotting when they go into the ground. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJO3b4ZfjWEiBJw9QMhhd6dxzDQ2LwT26Sz4fXoum50AWCCOvC73H7TzV4mNN0U0q9QqnCQH9wg1EIzow1oBGV1HdjFCyrarVCt_jMddvdE6Xiprp_foOWBfuti-C9dPTJB8xnLtNMLydJnbc1qCXwnuEPASleJAMGr4ved5nqH3SUdfT_3FcsBaHnQ/s1115/untitled-1-9.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJO3b4ZfjWEiBJw9QMhhd6dxzDQ2LwT26Sz4fXoum50AWCCOvC73H7TzV4mNN0U0q9QqnCQH9wg1EIzow1oBGV1HdjFCyrarVCt_jMddvdE6Xiprp_foOWBfuti-C9dPTJB8xnLtNMLydJnbc1qCXwnuEPASleJAMGr4ved5nqH3SUdfT_3FcsBaHnQ/w640-h360/untitled-1-9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My porch needed a bit of refreshing after winter, so I spent a day washing, rearranging, and cleaning the front porch. You can see some of the many flower plates that I have made through the years. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDjojiz1t68Pf8imxvU9BoEg6i8V88HY1Qw6d1V0SGnUEq-zfCsg2TWAeRJPD4IUwa00LuKU-rDyVPSdM0h1isQU-io6-NoyHR2u4yB32nlurKQYhkli2fUW7JuD8rc9yiQS-QcQeWgH97dFKM9r0w_ou-E93jiQevVx_cDhCuu8kNZzpzsWBnKvetA/s628/untitled-1-22.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDjojiz1t68Pf8imxvU9BoEg6i8V88HY1Qw6d1V0SGnUEq-zfCsg2TWAeRJPD4IUwa00LuKU-rDyVPSdM0h1isQU-io6-NoyHR2u4yB32nlurKQYhkli2fUW7JuD8rc9yiQS-QcQeWgH97dFKM9r0w_ou-E93jiQevVx_cDhCuu8kNZzpzsWBnKvetA/w360-h640/untitled-1-22.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have many little solar lights and LED candles on timers that turn on in the evening, which makes the porch a delightful spot to be all day long! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekjkBbaqnzVFCvcV5ej-lBB1ahonFV_0hJ-K4E5MsEreI1dGzmvbk8e_YbuzRcPqU6_t3WnjwWk4mrOsVptnwzdwAPbcq0_nksG2HkwO2d-nrTwdre94UWZRa8N2xFr-_ov11fIC-XOikrZfJmptiKoZBX_PDds1raqwhXZX0buoCz0VbffRx30eIPQ/s628/untitled-1-13.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="327" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekjkBbaqnzVFCvcV5ej-lBB1ahonFV_0hJ-K4E5MsEreI1dGzmvbk8e_YbuzRcPqU6_t3WnjwWk4mrOsVptnwzdwAPbcq0_nksG2HkwO2d-nrTwdre94UWZRa8N2xFr-_ov11fIC-XOikrZfJmptiKoZBX_PDds1raqwhXZX0buoCz0VbffRx30eIPQ/w334-h640/untitled-1-13.jpg" width="334" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Tulips blooming in the Springtime - oh how they make my heart sing! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LyKBKjES3hz7KIP2xum2mMK6u_Ha5BPmTF2QsoUc-r7ozMcsRz78omjsP_9ppKxuAmz8ur2qHcURMMGVXCGMR4qhMYrL_34N8jhZCzT4tqlUQiFiVACaCVJtj4t8D_DaJhEoNlekqZzzi75ims6dxikWosoU-xQfgDH2eZPwvO1l6cPZGxD9eLp0Hw/s1196/untitled-1-14.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1196" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LyKBKjES3hz7KIP2xum2mMK6u_Ha5BPmTF2QsoUc-r7ozMcsRz78omjsP_9ppKxuAmz8ur2qHcURMMGVXCGMR4qhMYrL_34N8jhZCzT4tqlUQiFiVACaCVJtj4t8D_DaJhEoNlekqZzzi75ims6dxikWosoU-xQfgDH2eZPwvO1l6cPZGxD9eLp0Hw/w640-h336/untitled-1-14.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The kids treated me on Mother's Day to a lovely meal at a local Greek restaurant. Dan was able to spend Mother's Day with his mother this year, and we sure missed him but were thankful he could spend this day with his mother. She is in a nursing home and has many health struggles. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAFm1oLmCUK7myxHVCmreXXA9yMyTli6C4NmmtGncGk0NkWjoA3LPMwO4f4S6fDFHSSgw-qG_PpnUHS0mSQRoYG-c2ICKk-6C0AI-xWwM9gAMeO4tFAeeJPe9BuGHjX8mxWcsfUAegcjWCgpXx7gZf1kaAVcHwyGsc8NLltR6mwmPDM2E56T22nuy0g/s628/untitled-1-15.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="363" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAFm1oLmCUK7myxHVCmreXXA9yMyTli6C4NmmtGncGk0NkWjoA3LPMwO4f4S6fDFHSSgw-qG_PpnUHS0mSQRoYG-c2ICKk-6C0AI-xWwM9gAMeO4tFAeeJPe9BuGHjX8mxWcsfUAegcjWCgpXx7gZf1kaAVcHwyGsc8NLltR6mwmPDM2E56T22nuy0g/w370-h640/untitled-1-15.jpg" width="370" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A neighbor's tulips - such a gorgeous display! She has a beautiful brick flower bed that moles/voles can't dig into, so I enjoy her tulips. I can't plant my tulips in the ground because of the problem we have with the underground diggers. So it is always a delight to see her tulips in bloom! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY9396TtP4XpZXeXFqGAwDI1i8ujTjdpheM2kDglw_OmJYNSkJx5gP2tpnGSb-xJpAF8yW3XnWr82Eo7N7h3UPJite-SD4ujKDFV6YbrZUWH-ekzdbmD0r3XsYy5Bn31JsFOIZucQBzQ6tnsOLMo9vv_h2iysS2vNNU2y682r8F79WFeuDWw2pAfgUA/s628/untitled-1-16.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY9396TtP4XpZXeXFqGAwDI1i8ujTjdpheM2kDglw_OmJYNSkJx5gP2tpnGSb-xJpAF8yW3XnWr82Eo7N7h3UPJite-SD4ujKDFV6YbrZUWH-ekzdbmD0r3XsYy5Bn31JsFOIZucQBzQ6tnsOLMo9vv_h2iysS2vNNU2y682r8F79WFeuDWw2pAfgUA/w360-h640/untitled-1-16.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> A neighbor groomed Riley for us - doesn't she look so pretty! I care for her animals when they are out of town, and she grooms Riley for me. I love our neighborhood, and how our neighbors can be a blessing to each other! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJsLZS97AqwcJ0XD5-lv6SghhDgf7YzuB3CgHFpfXuHpHhsP87o81gVLHuPI9_8kyydFxUYIHB5mSZxhkPblv4kwIgmmL7NSbN6Yg5HefJT1N42AKbMkNjLxKhf99YfSzmoK9mHgw34UsY4INZ-nGIgVVC3D9EgPKbAAArp0sAFexkLKCcr1M96GVnQ/s1115/untitled-1-17.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJsLZS97AqwcJ0XD5-lv6SghhDgf7YzuB3CgHFpfXuHpHhsP87o81gVLHuPI9_8kyydFxUYIHB5mSZxhkPblv4kwIgmmL7NSbN6Yg5HefJT1N42AKbMkNjLxKhf99YfSzmoK9mHgw34UsY4INZ-nGIgVVC3D9EgPKbAAArp0sAFexkLKCcr1M96GVnQ/w640-h360/untitled-1-17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I made a rhubarb-strawberry crumble last week -oh it was delicious! I added a few black cherries and some tapioca to the rhubarb and strawberries, and it was almost like eating pie, so good! I didn't use a recipe - just a little bit of this n that! It was sugar-free (I used stevia). </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48PWUB09pXU_qiBckq8kSNGKxq0cy-bEB5ZLXpAFEDhk0jr03KBPIdkN9hXsQQnixXmscZix0u2gm7RNc8bS4TXi6aPDZQl15qSqu24ciSDWxwMm5fHLQQJQsmRo-4y-PBns9v6Y9PZ5ERVM0O9Di4Hl6eyFAP2tLdU1kupzD6By9uRrrSJatzrUz5w/s628/untitled-1-20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48PWUB09pXU_qiBckq8kSNGKxq0cy-bEB5ZLXpAFEDhk0jr03KBPIdkN9hXsQQnixXmscZix0u2gm7RNc8bS4TXi6aPDZQl15qSqu24ciSDWxwMm5fHLQQJQsmRo-4y-PBns9v6Y9PZ5ERVM0O9Di4Hl6eyFAP2tLdU1kupzD6By9uRrrSJatzrUz5w/w360-h640/untitled-1-20.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This is one of our underground diggers - a ground squirrel. <br />Even with dogs and cats around, they are quite brazen! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HxV63lhVC5D9wHQhhH6DvEwlRy9b14V1NQaH9R8QelZn7MvgMj7vF_oZqjcmp6eDq21peor9Zu91QjaA6AFzlkRyHA_VsSt59zTuvzrY5ngMkAdzZdKlooNKs-vwktmq3nLVYLIvg9E7zBxf92golOClXrAGhhsjoeU826mmxNJkHXMKzergZ12nog/s1115/untitled-1-21.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7HxV63lhVC5D9wHQhhH6DvEwlRy9b14V1NQaH9R8QelZn7MvgMj7vF_oZqjcmp6eDq21peor9Zu91QjaA6AFzlkRyHA_VsSt59zTuvzrY5ngMkAdzZdKlooNKs-vwktmq3nLVYLIvg9E7zBxf92golOClXrAGhhsjoeU826mmxNJkHXMKzergZ12nog/w640-h360/untitled-1-21.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Well... it is quite possible that these two are just a bit lazy on the job, and not really earning their fair share around the place, to help keep the underground critters at bay {smiles}! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHr3uu3TbJq6KNdpfMhh_SFayVLFOlnSu76JsKRsIXQLLwZRhyA-cHdmi4qrlcfvZtwh6C980e6_ZAMkqjnxTAl-G8rnONs81nJhCSiLnveLJHuKtwRlwEluOBdTjmVlByC53Pnb3lQFHZr11jqgJPudg3wRlBxDzjKl7RP_fPcAvW4J9qUOAAw6yJA/s628/untitled-1-19.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHr3uu3TbJq6KNdpfMhh_SFayVLFOlnSu76JsKRsIXQLLwZRhyA-cHdmi4qrlcfvZtwh6C980e6_ZAMkqjnxTAl-G8rnONs81nJhCSiLnveLJHuKtwRlwEluOBdTjmVlByC53Pnb3lQFHZr11jqgJPudg3wRlBxDzjKl7RP_fPcAvW4J9qUOAAw6yJA/s320/untitled-1-19.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Lilac blooms - heaven's scent bottled up in these gorgeous blooms! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_it_z5n5cMP5sNXwcJQAIPNao_-DpagJT1QvXNZb3wWJv68gY8RGxS9v7jkS5Rpp862db5A32-ojJiqmRgBkmB-sXefb_I9lAREGGJ3vWHi1BIRhaj_WJTMh2CrTbHvnhmKkOqKAOByOFe4446DC_P1KFXgkNn1DNGpCh7UVxhbPcmj5NXtG493Y3Q/s628/untitled-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_it_z5n5cMP5sNXwcJQAIPNao_-DpagJT1QvXNZb3wWJv68gY8RGxS9v7jkS5Rpp862db5A32-ojJiqmRgBkmB-sXefb_I9lAREGGJ3vWHi1BIRhaj_WJTMh2CrTbHvnhmKkOqKAOByOFe4446DC_P1KFXgkNn1DNGpCh7UVxhbPcmj5NXtG493Y3Q/w360-h640/untitled-1.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Rhododendron blooms - so beautiful! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnhzYQRdcVldwXlyM62Up2YsXn7Jst2amXX3fIYvfyQoQS6R286N1jqa38W27nOH3eFo1eFN4KjQ9xU3tbSrx07Nn1x26DOqAmDqOLsZvkgX8fkvoamW5_Rv7OU4Y__QlYHeqBSmYtg8U98FGTm6LwrHd2vkoNuKgiax913rPiubhTRTnCLdrQ59D9g/s1115/untitled-1-23.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnhzYQRdcVldwXlyM62Up2YsXn7Jst2amXX3fIYvfyQoQS6R286N1jqa38W27nOH3eFo1eFN4KjQ9xU3tbSrx07Nn1x26DOqAmDqOLsZvkgX8fkvoamW5_Rv7OU4Y__QlYHeqBSmYtg8U98FGTm6LwrHd2vkoNuKgiax913rPiubhTRTnCLdrQ59D9g/w640-h360/untitled-1-23.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This rainbow appeared over the garden a couple of days ago, how beautiful it was for me to see God's promise once again spread out perfectly over my garden! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaTCbLnTR_QREC-roIHRrDautTuppJ5r4ZQhOWU2F98EERnS1_BanFZDM6NbDr_N6sl72h7iF682KF1aMf-oTYVkqdHTLxWAbbciwRTZ16IzKet8RDh4astbe9tlC42A6h5v3DNJRhzoMULCgF25tasjsHVWdmS9Z8poxCtM_CZaqA9gMb-fi-8-10Q/s4000/20230518_165047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaTCbLnTR_QREC-roIHRrDautTuppJ5r4ZQhOWU2F98EERnS1_BanFZDM6NbDr_N6sl72h7iF682KF1aMf-oTYVkqdHTLxWAbbciwRTZ16IzKet8RDh4astbe9tlC42A6h5v3DNJRhzoMULCgF25tasjsHVWdmS9Z8poxCtM_CZaqA9gMb-fi-8-10Q/w640-h360/20230518_165047.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A collection in my "She Shed" of teacups, teapots, and china. <br />I can hardly resist picking up beautiful pieces at thrift stores! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Ih7YhnnHZOAfVPkK71L70m_84AfXRef8oec74atmv_HEnj7GjhW3hFdSedDpRoX9Rp0XrOwTP8-Ko10nrDvxSZ9LCX-sG4PpmrtTHugvTYUHze286zhxv1n75p_yjj0R9aXcZmKvc0A-D0h6-hmpzT73a548Z6Sh6PpHcLcBb4ayJ6rw6Tf-3dvAfg/s4000/20230522_142459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Ih7YhnnHZOAfVPkK71L70m_84AfXRef8oec74atmv_HEnj7GjhW3hFdSedDpRoX9Rp0XrOwTP8-Ko10nrDvxSZ9LCX-sG4PpmrtTHugvTYUHze286zhxv1n75p_yjj0R9aXcZmKvc0A-D0h6-hmpzT73a548Z6Sh6PpHcLcBb4ayJ6rw6Tf-3dvAfg/w400-h225/20230522_142459.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I had a fun day last week with my stamping friends, and we made these beautiful cards together - always a fun time to stamp and create with other ladies :) <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneCZSwgHS9mWU86Or9Vn9uxr6ucfVHnNB--bZR0boCeIq4KaCuLIYV20XSZaROZfTZPMvLJO1yKFGc9HNGHs-0Wsu4N4okqkP-c_yvav6sWxLZHC3avq-lBhliJghrbIARHAsF5GHdEljEJzUQr_7g1bAuE0HHEksLewqseG0S319dBUZoASJaO2Ofg/s4000/20230522_193324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneCZSwgHS9mWU86Or9Vn9uxr6ucfVHnNB--bZR0boCeIq4KaCuLIYV20XSZaROZfTZPMvLJO1yKFGc9HNGHs-0Wsu4N4okqkP-c_yvav6sWxLZHC3avq-lBhliJghrbIARHAsF5GHdEljEJzUQr_7g1bAuE0HHEksLewqseG0S319dBUZoASJaO2Ofg/w360-h640/20230522_193324.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Lilac blooms - oh how I love them! Isn't the little boot jar adorable! It belongs to my daughter-in-law. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBF_1FoqkNY613oZkiYcKwXJv82fuEtD4sD3lh0x4YT2GL5YBrs3UWipxC3NW4870VWCHl1t-mOs42bnRuSDbL0ewfq_ephBqaVE_U9-i3LKOI7aaHJOIvocgMLt6mayhj9kRBxwpEvwHN4vdppa1ELBgvEslrrtFF93aPESndDItyzPYKBq1_BqUrw/s4000/20230522_194752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBF_1FoqkNY613oZkiYcKwXJv82fuEtD4sD3lh0x4YT2GL5YBrs3UWipxC3NW4870VWCHl1t-mOs42bnRuSDbL0ewfq_ephBqaVE_U9-i3LKOI7aaHJOIvocgMLt6mayhj9kRBxwpEvwHN4vdppa1ELBgvEslrrtFF93aPESndDItyzPYKBq1_BqUrw/w360-h640/20230522_194752.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Such an incredible delight to be able to enjoy these blooms each Spring! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1_qjoMpadk3X-oMcn4q9Ce8_fNGvEWEBPPihivrnPkl3yWIgfyXy9jYUNZZSoAxwGcjrYWcYWJ4nbFQIzMqQiHVQbltSh3FEt7gIg81kE2h5F7K2qM05d4zjsPTm7Iy1wRr1CgsQ0RM9J3gp9-p7ZTn32YB2y1ICbR4JCZg06uHmRNeJgCmdBLq2Ig/s4000/20230528_174132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1_qjoMpadk3X-oMcn4q9Ce8_fNGvEWEBPPihivrnPkl3yWIgfyXy9jYUNZZSoAxwGcjrYWcYWJ4nbFQIzMqQiHVQbltSh3FEt7gIg81kE2h5F7K2qM05d4zjsPTm7Iy1wRr1CgsQ0RM9J3gp9-p7ZTn32YB2y1ICbR4JCZg06uHmRNeJgCmdBLq2Ig/w360-h640/20230528_174132.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My neighbor brought over a Strawberry-Rhubarb pie - oh my, it was so good! She was also sporting a T-shirt that she found, it says: "Normal isn't coming back - JESUS is!" I love that we can have that hope in Jesus! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt4n0twyE3mZJpe4Ro5Gd1yjqEGhJOjgmFt0LIty1QbnLJ5r5J7YDgfiYDQEjdlDfaGP68mRlPrUvYgAxIDzSBD0u5bH-OVvlfWedhrGKua8am9UXsRTIRZHtMJjuaE-uPwOehso99l1wgQTd8_sVn3bGJwcGTZxnNdtYMExwlUjQYDFkZYV1ork1nA/s4000/20230528_201618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt4n0twyE3mZJpe4Ro5Gd1yjqEGhJOjgmFt0LIty1QbnLJ5r5J7YDgfiYDQEjdlDfaGP68mRlPrUvYgAxIDzSBD0u5bH-OVvlfWedhrGKua8am9UXsRTIRZHtMJjuaE-uPwOehso99l1wgQTd8_sVn3bGJwcGTZxnNdtYMExwlUjQYDFkZYV1ork1nA/w360-h640/20230528_201618.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Iris in bloom - they are blooming magnificently this year! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">\</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneNhQM4q-jSsUMchYgISD5S4y96ub-EoqM7-trLXK9iWwoEIr1l0-GYfvsaVsfvtU2xw6qPxcsrpUHYMK4tZOYnP9eYGesvN9j-oYN6K0fReC7EtoTrbFwNC37XVEbREAupfp9Nu6ipUjsFXHAf4sD_fwfvppzrbhUCcFQj7akfn2rvtlyDjPbDbQ8A/s4000/20230529_140422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneNhQM4q-jSsUMchYgISD5S4y96ub-EoqM7-trLXK9iWwoEIr1l0-GYfvsaVsfvtU2xw6qPxcsrpUHYMK4tZOYnP9eYGesvN9j-oYN6K0fReC7EtoTrbFwNC37XVEbREAupfp9Nu6ipUjsFXHAf4sD_fwfvppzrbhUCcFQj7akfn2rvtlyDjPbDbQ8A/w640-h360/20230529_140422.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We took a quad ride up into the mountains - one of our favorite things to do! It was so nice, a beautiful day - not too dusty, and lots of wildflowers blooming! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKDsjYgqNxqKrutghb_1q6UG15ItSIRBPIsX60CbDeTSS9WdvFH7DoWPqzvdqBZ9dl83xGmdc_Os3rDmZ9sIrGrVRaIuWYS6QyHg5VNx88EUcrxbxh6GW7d-y8aN_LAm0_v7JIb6ywhXdwkgXA0ri8Vif_HQ8rEUXI6JqLCU4vKA2Sv5Jnsj9Bc9z8g/s4000/20230528_201626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKDsjYgqNxqKrutghb_1q6UG15ItSIRBPIsX60CbDeTSS9WdvFH7DoWPqzvdqBZ9dl83xGmdc_Os3rDmZ9sIrGrVRaIuWYS6QyHg5VNx88EUcrxbxh6GW7d-y8aN_LAm0_v7JIb6ywhXdwkgXA0ri8Vif_HQ8rEUXI6JqLCU4vKA2Sv5Jnsj9Bc9z8g/w640-h360/20230528_201626.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May is such a busy month as all my seedlings go into the ground after being cared for in my greenhouse - many of them since March. It is a great feeling to know that everything is in the ground and where it needs to be! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've been working on this post for several days now - and here it is the end of MAY! Where oh where do the days run off to? I hope you've enjoyed this rather rambling post of bits and pieces of my May days here in North Idaho. I'd like to leave your hearts encouraged with this beautiful video done by my friend Cheryl Smith. You can visit her blog <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.homespundevotions.com/2023/05/i-know-who-holds-tomorrow.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></span> to read more of her encouraging words about the days we live in, and the hope we have in Jesus. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="398" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nRC-3WsyyXA" width="478" youtube-src-id="nRC-3WsyyXA"></iframe></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I hope you enjoy her video, and I pray that all of you know how much I love and appreciate each one of you! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-56414294341509225402023-05-08T05:58:00.000-07:002023-05-08T05:58:23.938-07:00May's Spring Parade of Blooms!<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> The Spring Parade of Blooms has begun - and oh how wonderful it has been! I plant daffodils with abandon - all around our property. I've learned that this beautiful flower blooms without any care - and is one of the first blooms of spring. What a welcome delight to the world it is! Deer and gophers, ground squirrels, and other animals will never eat them, and their bright yellow blooms light up the landscape. Can you tell, I'm in love with our daffodil blooms! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKN6PbbvFihCwF41UAt-Xxs8rCHoF9uf-f_kOR-rtic-NA4z8B8jhYySNpzECGEEmQMtCu9pDv_ZJSzu72DDO1LbY93sGLsy6uvLK-PLY_javhpUplGsgoH-R6CdIyhAtHyerFuWh_g20S1sjroq03-7GdcnkT3-Lkmtn-9HEB3KxqkUVTo7t3FE45Xw/s1115/20230502_195831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKN6PbbvFihCwF41UAt-Xxs8rCHoF9uf-f_kOR-rtic-NA4z8B8jhYySNpzECGEEmQMtCu9pDv_ZJSzu72DDO1LbY93sGLsy6uvLK-PLY_javhpUplGsgoH-R6CdIyhAtHyerFuWh_g20S1sjroq03-7GdcnkT3-Lkmtn-9HEB3KxqkUVTo7t3FE45Xw/w640-h360/20230502_195831.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We have an old stump in our front yard, left here by previous owners. Back in the 70s a fire went through our area, and we believe this stump was left from one of those fires. It sits on a large mound, and I decided it would be beautiful with some daffodils blooming around it. I can't plant much else here, because the deer pathway through our acreage is right by it, and so the only plants that I know for sure deer won't eat are daffodil, and lavender. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2T6gKfmL-iXUWzoHSXHNYbIJnDDmD3kuEmpCB47mXBrgStxbFJkmXGD6Q4uETa59HPGye0dnO0xOuotmFYwkZYkI8De6p6IocCiOu4gGzYRleETGsOwxCstM1RJtSr4JFGMrAlfX8fOu6NrT6-htVZEOuHV3hHjyX1vXFgaHo4dqpI1ZoNLmJ4DlsBg/s628/20230504_170106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2T6gKfmL-iXUWzoHSXHNYbIJnDDmD3kuEmpCB47mXBrgStxbFJkmXGD6Q4uETa59HPGye0dnO0xOuotmFYwkZYkI8De6p6IocCiOu4gGzYRleETGsOwxCstM1RJtSr4JFGMrAlfX8fOu6NrT6-htVZEOuHV3hHjyX1vXFgaHo4dqpI1ZoNLmJ4DlsBg/w360-h640/20230504_170106.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My early tulips are now starting to bloom! Oh the joy! I can't wait to see them all unfold their heads from a cold winter's sleep! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzHSkO-j62yMnb54FLr9Fi93ecXKavXasbgiIDIE-h0fKgclteEdo7Aun2-xykweYjXTq6fzdomxUsGeJB6NbNGSFof3Vxw6Bc98ZND3XVudnV_1r1kG1RmnvxpYCrVksCnEA-_7aF45_H7J2XRzzMoUoOzfeblb24haklcmu9g5eV1q1gJi7QqJwSw/s628/20230504_170054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzHSkO-j62yMnb54FLr9Fi93ecXKavXasbgiIDIE-h0fKgclteEdo7Aun2-xykweYjXTq6fzdomxUsGeJB6NbNGSFof3Vxw6Bc98ZND3XVudnV_1r1kG1RmnvxpYCrVksCnEA-_7aF45_H7J2XRzzMoUoOzfeblb24haklcmu9g5eV1q1gJi7QqJwSw/w360-h640/20230504_170054.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">One of my plate flowers stands watch over the unfolding yellow blooms of my tulips. <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifEHuuwwXTt3Ki_oeFV2k-w0hi4ZeKrQnMmwjuZ-hATUM6Z_GdgK0091yT9u2gNmCDHwaVFFiQYxbOHUuYaOd3cWpIisrRZ6UlihiD-tHTokKEsajZE0a-H9K45KZtmX80QFxUaWUXHqAP3pJ6t5vWbSUnCni2bGhougVnEWTrNbh5ewZlB42qH3i3w/s1115/PSX_20230502_204308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifEHuuwwXTt3Ki_oeFV2k-w0hi4ZeKrQnMmwjuZ-hATUM6Z_GdgK0091yT9u2gNmCDHwaVFFiQYxbOHUuYaOd3cWpIisrRZ6UlihiD-tHTokKEsajZE0a-H9K45KZtmX80QFxUaWUXHqAP3pJ6t5vWbSUnCni2bGhougVnEWTrNbh5ewZlB42qH3i3w/w640-h360/PSX_20230502_204308.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We had some unsettling spring weather romp through our area this past week, leaving us with a system that brought lots of rain. The skies were incredibly lit up with the storm and its incredible cloud formations! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdn0XKXBMQv0T6Iw5qMDxcuWUQU0KT7S_lyhNZO1haM0UAl-P6lZVYDzeJTGN0KXa0nElkvveJIVeXh4WTLyc7-WnbJHHZ5eqDcC8UuHWE5xnwL4_Fz0hQeOvqrQqHMdKSFhDe_L4SZO4Mb-V9RuyULGKBlQ3cyzJfu7j2bZzVmybpg1h9vYnJWI3rw/s1115/PSX_20230502_204235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdn0XKXBMQv0T6Iw5qMDxcuWUQU0KT7S_lyhNZO1haM0UAl-P6lZVYDzeJTGN0KXa0nElkvveJIVeXh4WTLyc7-WnbJHHZ5eqDcC8UuHWE5xnwL4_Fz0hQeOvqrQqHMdKSFhDe_L4SZO4Mb-V9RuyULGKBlQ3cyzJfu7j2bZzVmybpg1h9vYnJWI3rw/w640-h360/PSX_20230502_204235.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sunset as a spring storm rolls in - such beauty in the skies, I am always in amazement! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOsx7BD-Xph_nzBXdG6MYnuDJISg5V3jtpVM6oZUi4UXYCr_vOV9sq4lRy0uoDwLW_4mxaxcIvYhcnyN_Y_bb5wGGzwU7xSfGPFwpcOp8Oo4O-LysdW6R8gJX_kES4F39WGyVSxwtPwOTSI7_0Kc9iK6ts6aTYBMoR2JjgQjYzIE2eOKMVQ6Kb-JlUg/s1115/20230503_202844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOsx7BD-Xph_nzBXdG6MYnuDJISg5V3jtpVM6oZUi4UXYCr_vOV9sq4lRy0uoDwLW_4mxaxcIvYhcnyN_Y_bb5wGGzwU7xSfGPFwpcOp8Oo4O-LysdW6R8gJX_kES4F39WGyVSxwtPwOTSI7_0Kc9iK6ts6aTYBMoR2JjgQjYzIE2eOKMVQ6Kb-JlUg/w640-h360/20230503_202844.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I captured the Flower Moon the night the storm was rolling in, before clouds covered it up. What a beautiful moon it was! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjefuzsGztB2rv8etuglcDVJgBM4JCsbj_nfxdvFFN673UmlwvSSYuA81zFsVHyulcKu74ZT0ShvcwBNL97cbf_UdNUS5ZigyUXiosBowW2XyxydJrS8PA-_AIPiBhdCNU_wIQOq6g97dzQGn7crnZMlZBMkpYzAVb3XxNU9jjqYhbC43Sj4Z_C0IwYQ/s1115/20230502_204002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjefuzsGztB2rv8etuglcDVJgBM4JCsbj_nfxdvFFN673UmlwvSSYuA81zFsVHyulcKu74ZT0ShvcwBNL97cbf_UdNUS5ZigyUXiosBowW2XyxydJrS8PA-_AIPiBhdCNU_wIQOq6g97dzQGn7crnZMlZBMkpYzAVb3XxNU9jjqYhbC43Sj4Z_C0IwYQ/w640-h360/20230502_204002.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I've created a little seating area around our bonfire pit, just outside my garden. I've hung LED lights and string lights through the trees, and have them on a timer to come on for 2 hours at dusk. It makes my heart happy to have lights - lots of lights come on at dusk. I've set solar lights all through my yard too. It just adds such a special ambiance! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3WuUdCepihIO2Q-NYD10-vOyxOfpPxaJyyBAriKvlLNQjohBrRrrXPoYoUz0q2ubWz_9viKG5TcFp3xOJvcRpKHLskhR1i3qiU_NclcvIoJziw5-ew8PA8N_i4hsoo1KvhWUKQHCY3KHEilzSZ0zbBN8msd-F5PHyI94Z9_-VhB0vqRZIYidbx1QXxQ/s628/20230502_204416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3WuUdCepihIO2Q-NYD10-vOyxOfpPxaJyyBAriKvlLNQjohBrRrrXPoYoUz0q2ubWz_9viKG5TcFp3xOJvcRpKHLskhR1i3qiU_NclcvIoJziw5-ew8PA8N_i4hsoo1KvhWUKQHCY3KHEilzSZ0zbBN8msd-F5PHyI94Z9_-VhB0vqRZIYidbx1QXxQ/w360-h640/20230502_204416.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">As I watched the Flower Moon make its appearance, I had company - my sweet kitties wanted to sit on my lap and watch with me. However, their attention span was shortened by something in the grass more interesting... {smiles} </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKbNO9QS7sN613z2PNK5Lq3SIWwQDv7RVDMTH4nb15S7Ew9aLpLh3bpcIkGt4nlyMOditfiCMyOHtkupC9wuGbbqDWZ6xdn99x8XeRCFwqb5JfZjD-Qv7nkCdgcsjesDX3IB9PQen3QIcrEaMF9Uty4TVgdQaZMD4I4eTr3JHlNimx-g9kWs2SD-SWA/s1115/20230502_200053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKbNO9QS7sN613z2PNK5Lq3SIWwQDv7RVDMTH4nb15S7Ew9aLpLh3bpcIkGt4nlyMOditfiCMyOHtkupC9wuGbbqDWZ6xdn99x8XeRCFwqb5JfZjD-Qv7nkCdgcsjesDX3IB9PQen3QIcrEaMF9Uty4TVgdQaZMD4I4eTr3JHlNimx-g9kWs2SD-SWA/w640-h360/20230502_200053.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A view of my garden space with the stump and daffodils in the foreground. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s8J8-ynkI8rHLGRFu6LotnPgrX4CQzq893EKrU5-Sp3NHeit7daiyteKV5mRnnc7LrEsRhUQwzllJXskTzCkh4YLS1rkD8QiDqdmkvnxHeYjrd3YI-sa__yP4bTjKf4VEVQoP9gwdCDjxmMSHiPlv0zacdDMREMUKk3zQ-PHiG-OH8UL_So_T0r8uw/s1115/20230502_195846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s8J8-ynkI8rHLGRFu6LotnPgrX4CQzq893EKrU5-Sp3NHeit7daiyteKV5mRnnc7LrEsRhUQwzllJXskTzCkh4YLS1rkD8QiDqdmkvnxHeYjrd3YI-sa__yP4bTjKf4VEVQoP9gwdCDjxmMSHiPlv0zacdDMREMUKk3zQ-PHiG-OH8UL_So_T0r8uw/w640-h360/20230502_195846.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Does this bring a smile to your face? It does to mine :) No maintenance, no care - just pure joy! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOXNl7q4fMqlqI4ljKZK7SU7_5AmD0iQOXOdp2JiBzcI1oucMQ_BpFWs_9DVRk5JG03Tptc_O15PURVahiP8iEneuiQgtsxAV1OibF9LMlHebIZVllCcl593r2eOFa01vIhgESwWSqL-k_1Ezu2CE0nreXVlw6yInrEMm01ylVl4sxlLQW6_MUAVZvg/s628/20230502_194517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOXNl7q4fMqlqI4ljKZK7SU7_5AmD0iQOXOdp2JiBzcI1oucMQ_BpFWs_9DVRk5JG03Tptc_O15PURVahiP8iEneuiQgtsxAV1OibF9LMlHebIZVllCcl593r2eOFa01vIhgESwWSqL-k_1Ezu2CE0nreXVlw6yInrEMm01ylVl4sxlLQW6_MUAVZvg/w360-h640/20230502_194517.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our first hummingbirds usually arrive around our son's birthday, the 17th of April. However, this year, they were 10 days later. I saw them arrive around the 25th. There was just one hummer for about a week, but now I've begun to see more. I understand the first crew to arrive are called "scouts" where they scout out the area and then report back to the rest of the hummers. I hope I received a good report :) </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnHVRRnTeYPY6dNDMkjbcP9ZYtFK3vGUeeFC9wFAe3HoAYSAlNOG5EMUjYLprti0zlLfkI1IIvQ2oY8FMyNM-52Ko9VL7vDFWUK3dujNhC_KfItTp6CRRyBUPaLPDZ373425SmEZR1VfYHhaaVP9ZnPs-xWcBRGw0QtQDnkazT5i79eM18tvL8k_03g/s1115/20230430_064834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnHVRRnTeYPY6dNDMkjbcP9ZYtFK3vGUeeFC9wFAe3HoAYSAlNOG5EMUjYLprti0zlLfkI1IIvQ2oY8FMyNM-52Ko9VL7vDFWUK3dujNhC_KfItTp6CRRyBUPaLPDZ373425SmEZR1VfYHhaaVP9ZnPs-xWcBRGw0QtQDnkazT5i79eM18tvL8k_03g/w640-h360/20230430_064834.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">These two - my precious sweet fur babies - after a busy day outside, they enjoy napping in my lap before bedtime, and early in the morning while I drink my coffee. <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfA4c0SDqOSawMQERgVcxhCBGaorybCcdzPemPkIW0EspmIedfKJW5Yo7UbVBo9-dKXgkyBqwyRm9zWD6cU0hWHIVuhSGqCMf8C5o9SkHASAO_e5zFvw8KkVmrkQ4YpSoVIAKRZoNo9B3ysoNddwhMXK_C9td1lfPxzH35iTXtzYrrv88UUlFNZaljA/s1115/20230429_192043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfA4c0SDqOSawMQERgVcxhCBGaorybCcdzPemPkIW0EspmIedfKJW5Yo7UbVBo9-dKXgkyBqwyRm9zWD6cU0hWHIVuhSGqCMf8C5o9SkHASAO_e5zFvw8KkVmrkQ4YpSoVIAKRZoNo9B3ysoNddwhMXK_C9td1lfPxzH35iTXtzYrrv88UUlFNZaljA/w640-h360/20230429_192043.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Planting a variety of daffodils, from early bloomers to late spring bloomers, makes my yard a beautiful happy place of all kinds of blooms in early spring! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wbJD512tWIHQx6phIufsTQLecPnY0lv2aXWWSKu4De-ZHbxgiurDutt2ESiXkZvShpIaLjYPfNawuNLJMz0JoaDViafE3iUBcgSLrEQk7dpLnpiGM5vlIsB5yBReRmIjWYo4DicJBJOoITXGE2hxuRbM4J5v_9HNNgrKF1cyX1j6mTEYtv331QW8fw/s1115/20230429_185648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wbJD512tWIHQx6phIufsTQLecPnY0lv2aXWWSKu4De-ZHbxgiurDutt2ESiXkZvShpIaLjYPfNawuNLJMz0JoaDViafE3iUBcgSLrEQk7dpLnpiGM5vlIsB5yBReRmIjWYo4DicJBJOoITXGE2hxuRbM4J5v_9HNNgrKF1cyX1j6mTEYtv331QW8fw/w640-h360/20230429_185648.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have been very busy in the garden, getting ready for another year of planting and harvesting. I also have set up my Prayer & Tea Garden area where I host prayer meetings, and tea parties throughout the summer with friends, family, and other sisters in Christ. It brings me a lot of joy! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wv63kJLZ5BRhuBh3Nov68NEPBETd5u-jvweasIyNH55Fz1hla7Tor5V7Vout9xZUHy-oUxYvsEqxwIIwwMH61D5awLzUsMCnmg3U5WnsPZbVARzKzUeargyXbF3-CW7FkHQoVeKxFM4s2_lhOo93kIw_sKI22Dih_asHNQvIVrqaDtrc9ameuuz6nQ/s1115/20230429_185645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wv63kJLZ5BRhuBh3Nov68NEPBETd5u-jvweasIyNH55Fz1hla7Tor5V7Vout9xZUHy-oUxYvsEqxwIIwwMH61D5awLzUsMCnmg3U5WnsPZbVARzKzUeargyXbF3-CW7FkHQoVeKxFM4s2_lhOo93kIw_sKI22Dih_asHNQvIVrqaDtrc9ameuuz6nQ/w640-h360/20230429_185645.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I raked our entire yard where pine needles fell, and wheeled them into the garden to put in my pathways, to deter weeds from growing there. The pine needles break down every year, and keep my pathways (mostly) free of weeds. I also utilize a barrier of cardboard on the pathways under the pine needles. One year I worked very hard and put out the weed barrier throughout my whole pathway - and it failed - utterly! So, every spring, I work hard raking pine needles, and all winter I save cardboard boxes, and this has been the best system for me. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8T-Y0llUsG90FxvIoBD8s6V57PtGrVLa8KZJxekRmHu1zwPknm9vsHdCqlHtGQSHdqw6dNioJo_DfX0_INg4OYP7-k7MGMSkV5tH1z8XdeMFgUvChQlFpXaoKyYY8PgVoiS0KYczEWoLolXmrWGxTg_TxWD92AUwwS_JGUHHEbU7yv3YlPM4Wv6ytA/s1115/20230429_154638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8T-Y0llUsG90FxvIoBD8s6V57PtGrVLa8KZJxekRmHu1zwPknm9vsHdCqlHtGQSHdqw6dNioJo_DfX0_INg4OYP7-k7MGMSkV5tH1z8XdeMFgUvChQlFpXaoKyYY8PgVoiS0KYczEWoLolXmrWGxTg_TxWD92AUwwS_JGUHHEbU7yv3YlPM4Wv6ytA/w640-h360/20230429_154638.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A peek inside my "She Shed", which is a place where I can sit in an open gazebo-style building, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, without any bugs. I've made it a little sitting area to enjoy tea and cold beverages during our hot dry summer. Part of the shed is functional with tools, and equipment stored also. Someday, my husband promises to build me a little tool shed, but for now, my shed is a multipurpose place of joy for me. <br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMkG-V3ciXSFp8PAHXfBMapZ5PGfZ3Ds-0kpPdgRIvphtFBrXzvhxs5GZJtTmsOHYlb1yBRnk6ebDs8rczc26BaZsd7jVtuthPRn5vKZiW-qhsqvlcnYvAC1hottkFl0NjUlC-WIM2-F2Fe0VIRN59SA1Qk5oofK0ZvfRVzw4W6Ig-HBIfC_sRuQz7g/s1115/20230427_152255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMkG-V3ciXSFp8PAHXfBMapZ5PGfZ3Ds-0kpPdgRIvphtFBrXzvhxs5GZJtTmsOHYlb1yBRnk6ebDs8rczc26BaZsd7jVtuthPRn5vKZiW-qhsqvlcnYvAC1hottkFl0NjUlC-WIM2-F2Fe0VIRN59SA1Qk5oofK0ZvfRVzw4W6Ig-HBIfC_sRuQz7g/w640-h360/20230427_152255.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I live in a very tiny home (less than 800 sq ft), so any treasures I love but can't find a place for in my home, I bring out here. There are no rules! No perfectly designed spaces for me out here - it is just free, and I hang and put things at will, where I can enjoy them. All of the pieces come from yard sales and thrift stores, for pennies. Many of them are cracked, broken, and in disrepair when I buy them (many of my friends gift me with things as well!) But I find a place for everything and it has become a place of beauty and delight! The dresser is a new addition to the "She Shed". It is not in the best shape, but it holds a variety of things for me, and so I love it! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB86lkYhF5lxBrzXNcYgi-t1eZ7XfSYKo9t0XWAwqHgey56KOubysN3I5TKUCSEoVgk92nTfAsTbogYLS23NC2BkcA6rj9XqsmEr95idcKXRs-6gJrqoJ71av895ft1NaD7iK6as096YMu_ToyhqNaL3DaAk8OHLGNNb5O1ubK3dRlfQfXLCweK6hBIw/s628/20230429_181120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB86lkYhF5lxBrzXNcYgi-t1eZ7XfSYKo9t0XWAwqHgey56KOubysN3I5TKUCSEoVgk92nTfAsTbogYLS23NC2BkcA6rj9XqsmEr95idcKXRs-6gJrqoJ71av895ft1NaD7iK6as096YMu_ToyhqNaL3DaAk8OHLGNNb5O1ubK3dRlfQfXLCweK6hBIw/w360-h640/20230429_181120.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This is one of the baby chicks I hatched out through our incubator - all 19 that hatched survived, and now they are ready for their new homes. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">~ ~ ~ ~</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I hope this new video I've made blesses your heart - so many people today are living their lives as if there is no God. When you look around the incredible world God has created for us to enjoy, how can you deny there is a God? The absolute perfection of everything His hand has created for us to enjoy. I share many beautiful pictures of North Idaho in this video. We can have great hope in our hearts that no matter how difficult the circumstances may seem around us, and in the world, our God is the Creator who formed it all into existence, and He Has a plan for this world. Jesus said, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20 </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="386" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XvUYyL-z3W0" width="465" youtube-src-id="XvUYyL-z3W0"></iframe></span></div><div><br /></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1489696027613465792.post-3792031918848552702023-04-19T11:13:00.002-07:002023-04-19T11:13:25.310-07:00Easter Trip to Texas and Idaho Springtime<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My husband and I traveled to Texas over Easter to visit our family there. It was wonderful to see everyone and to spend precious moments with my parents and Dan's mom. Another reason we like to go to Texas in the springtime is to see the hallmark Texas beauties - the bluebonnets. I wasn't sure we would see any, as the season came earlier this year. But, we persevered, and found some! </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNABlJShYEbtJgJelre6rBh6xI2gGxEp4dbci9auJPV8gXRy09fa61bATaGM2rSlJsnZedk-MPZgeAhDbxj9d6V8jN54YrtsjWoKPki1qzOFPRYnOoWH195ZAKCqaDSq34GC0n3No9qnAVWaycG6-1jmmhcKcP2_6tE99ie6_K3MFmTgT9zsV9Cjh3rg/s1115/PSX_20230408_152034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNABlJShYEbtJgJelre6rBh6xI2gGxEp4dbci9auJPV8gXRy09fa61bATaGM2rSlJsnZedk-MPZgeAhDbxj9d6V8jN54YrtsjWoKPki1qzOFPRYnOoWH195ZAKCqaDSq34GC0n3No9qnAVWaycG6-1jmmhcKcP2_6tE99ie6_K3MFmTgT9zsV9Cjh3rg/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_152034.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We took a drive along the Willow City Loop just south of Llano, Texas, and that is where these beautiful blooms were gracious enough to wait and give their last best for us. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4aCAlbTPfChmX8ULkyqVk8F0H-Ps6QNqtvoqj0ATJcHS2RlAVem2uKueBPSBhb8iJib_FscA693pDYxIpgFZC49-Rb4hSluo80WmPaWb0LoJPOXoYg7eW0FUSJwK5oK8Q3oxV28y6T06vlcJK9tZ80-qQJK2WMWfV6mhQEkYXuaZS-NuUDPaHwNzJw/s628/20230408_115351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4aCAlbTPfChmX8ULkyqVk8F0H-Ps6QNqtvoqj0ATJcHS2RlAVem2uKueBPSBhb8iJib_FscA693pDYxIpgFZC49-Rb4hSluo80WmPaWb0LoJPOXoYg7eW0FUSJwK5oK8Q3oxV28y6T06vlcJK9tZ80-qQJK2WMWfV6mhQEkYXuaZS-NuUDPaHwNzJw/w225-h400/20230408_115351.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The poppies were already in bloom, <br />as the bluebonnets were at the end of their season. </span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Av84jTDfGibmajEQ1g1pvKyt-5UZke2mhuTzyvnPmOt41LRiRHUmy0lt8_afKWKij5JdnumtxK5DFPMitoaLziQ5ya8lBOB9eoN4-Hhv0Iz29IBQXZnpTdfI_u-0AGSCDBboFG77ejg0jnvVfY0DgkrHTt44NGhsQRd4ywiFQq8vbCh1FThgG9hDpA/s1115/PSX_20230408_152024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Av84jTDfGibmajEQ1g1pvKyt-5UZke2mhuTzyvnPmOt41LRiRHUmy0lt8_afKWKij5JdnumtxK5DFPMitoaLziQ5ya8lBOB9eoN4-Hhv0Iz29IBQXZnpTdfI_u-0AGSCDBboFG77ejg0jnvVfY0DgkrHTt44NGhsQRd4ywiFQq8vbCh1FThgG9hDpA/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_152024.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Just off the road, the blues were putting on a show! <br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KtS6dxqpftP6Nj1su-R4j9P9tFXMlT0POPZAogWJVmpaKf9fKVznqjuMmUKFsnqW3T5cWCWYw77Z5VWvUt0eE2-OmGnjP7boO2PD6eWrrrKl2bav8IuBTIYuDF3kb2GRe_6V1Ykl0uw3YfclxXda0ZSqGwA7vcq-nC0nGzj50NWPvP-rx6tM4JOk8g/s1115/PSX_20230408_152003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KtS6dxqpftP6Nj1su-R4j9P9tFXMlT0POPZAogWJVmpaKf9fKVznqjuMmUKFsnqW3T5cWCWYw77Z5VWvUt0eE2-OmGnjP7boO2PD6eWrrrKl2bav8IuBTIYuDF3kb2GRe_6V1Ykl0uw3YfclxXda0ZSqGwA7vcq-nC0nGzj50NWPvP-rx6tM4JOk8g/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_152003.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0LYu1BY__9z3s5fGD3imOTV9NuXJ6pjGf1GJJ2B6jz-VgOSP5AFDlEyB0B968E8dEnuS7xb8hdvVpTZNxvckeGWGox6pJd-cO4I-Gt-JQovETLThKIMe3hZ8WxRdND6c8s6DcPhcDVAAHAYi37hgXNvcW_fWUYIHAmDBAL-qj4ZWwHt6KW-omP2PSg/s1115/PSX_20230408_151949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0LYu1BY__9z3s5fGD3imOTV9NuXJ6pjGf1GJJ2B6jz-VgOSP5AFDlEyB0B968E8dEnuS7xb8hdvVpTZNxvckeGWGox6pJd-cO4I-Gt-JQovETLThKIMe3hZ8WxRdND6c8s6DcPhcDVAAHAYi37hgXNvcW_fWUYIHAmDBAL-qj4ZWwHt6KW-omP2PSg/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_151949.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A vintage tractor parked strategically in a field with an old cedar fence, <br />what a lovely scene this was!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRG6B5sVNTdtAffQ5UcHUznY89Ix4nBLSQyQJeCdDtkIkBUsQvidmvZSac8NSiMqgErdUrFe2w3YUsbimKcG3CtfIr8-msBOmz9Qunk21mNDPTAJgBDnziejD8pzwHMkqhqzvZHHwRG_vT2F52BBgpdDN2jT06G7PwJk2TqEjo-UvPyXflZdfu5LffA/s1115/PSX_20230408_151936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRG6B5sVNTdtAffQ5UcHUznY89Ix4nBLSQyQJeCdDtkIkBUsQvidmvZSac8NSiMqgErdUrFe2w3YUsbimKcG3CtfIr8-msBOmz9Qunk21mNDPTAJgBDnziejD8pzwHMkqhqzvZHHwRG_vT2F52BBgpdDN2jT06G7PwJk2TqEjo-UvPyXflZdfu5LffA/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_151936.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBg-uxiSwLxDDCnYXq5uDVfa9b4S_1v5TvfxVLfJigRT0ztEvSHYblSAB3m_Y9zfuW5cLwkoGcnmODcVX6wLz5qGcCfWWHcAawKeL3mMjRDQxy4pvhNm5lDxkx5GxeqiS6EBeOYrnN66z2VEsTTsX6BDMY9J-awo5g5Bo9bst1e4UYfjRiiIpr8vJVEw/s1115/PSX_20230408_151832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBg-uxiSwLxDDCnYXq5uDVfa9b4S_1v5TvfxVLfJigRT0ztEvSHYblSAB3m_Y9zfuW5cLwkoGcnmODcVX6wLz5qGcCfWWHcAawKeL3mMjRDQxy4pvhNm5lDxkx5GxeqiS6EBeOYrnN66z2VEsTTsX6BDMY9J-awo5g5Bo9bst1e4UYfjRiiIpr8vJVEw/w640-h360/PSX_20230408_151832.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It was very dry this year, moreso than other years. But we did find this beautiful stream with a little waterfall highlighted by the bluebonnets and black-eyed susans! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnzXf86KDohe-W5kK8pZbSg7stqulxqE1dF-rVpEWocT9bxeiiQI3X0WQMxr1XqxXF5WXII-4OgwEWGPYNJAJWGXOFH4Ug3Uq4fJF346Qtl-jnriRzENsSj50HEES-5kuLvB_--29fy8YUAtjP1wAcSzZrm9ILTSm_5rawfo7BmlxvUT9cEFig850iw/s1115/20230407_204703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnzXf86KDohe-W5kK8pZbSg7stqulxqE1dF-rVpEWocT9bxeiiQI3X0WQMxr1XqxXF5WXII-4OgwEWGPYNJAJWGXOFH4Ug3Uq4fJF346Qtl-jnriRzENsSj50HEES-5kuLvB_--29fy8YUAtjP1wAcSzZrm9ILTSm_5rawfo7BmlxvUT9cEFig850iw/w640-h360/20230407_204703.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My brother hosted our Easter dinner, and his yard was in bloom with these gorgeous snapdragons. <br /><br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We had a wonderful time there - although the days flew by quickly. Soon it was time to return home. <br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkN29B42hVTtOVOzBO0AmRTwGu93QIHmYIFOnvgKWk2umrUqutI03kjZHORIllVlgH18gi7Kz1oDQqcquv3W5zWpnF-VWZF59Zdy2fuqVFC1uUyhD0mSb0BVYcgxPHFknz3UWDPWVye7yXJ9fzL45I-jLPxxokvMBsjafe4pel4CDDsmWRZF5ALjsp1A/s1115/20230412_111037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkN29B42hVTtOVOzBO0AmRTwGu93QIHmYIFOnvgKWk2umrUqutI03kjZHORIllVlgH18gi7Kz1oDQqcquv3W5zWpnF-VWZF59Zdy2fuqVFC1uUyhD0mSb0BVYcgxPHFknz3UWDPWVye7yXJ9fzL45I-jLPxxokvMBsjafe4pel4CDDsmWRZF5ALjsp1A/w400-h225/20230412_111037.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The kids bought me some flowers to welcome me back home! <br />It was good to be home - always good to go, <br />but even better to return to "home sweet home"! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKOTueBps20ytaAMM7rtJTbY06w3ckmQbuiMf1lG73nIbjpNMCGIUeEiJNtQlQP8XyfENI6MPE0-gq6KupAkQHz6YR5QeurCfbXw-lBosEoi_GYkHh4MogxugU5ElSOFy1AUfRCQpav8uHFiTUjWCzRJsqU12cV_6CqW4_A28ogqIJWpaggAxwgA5Ig/s1115/20230412_163556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKOTueBps20ytaAMM7rtJTbY06w3ckmQbuiMf1lG73nIbjpNMCGIUeEiJNtQlQP8XyfENI6MPE0-gq6KupAkQHz6YR5QeurCfbXw-lBosEoi_GYkHh4MogxugU5ElSOFy1AUfRCQpav8uHFiTUjWCzRJsqU12cV_6CqW4_A28ogqIJWpaggAxwgA5Ig/w640-h360/20230412_163556.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the garden, I found these "glory of the snow" flowers blooming. <br />They are faithful to bloom early every spring, and I am always happy to see them! <br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHPPivdHD6D2CkmjcQk7zZRBgDispOIErea86-9QncwFm8akc265eyzMaBySgHoshv7tCWWhCZXVfK8np3AZdlDEM6ZwFcs439lgSynhSLiKxp2NWD40r-KSBLGISnkfj5uNS1Jcf5jNXqwhUHbNZCj41fLl8D_6LyvKsf6DMapQr1-m7f3NOGf69lw/s628/20230411_162432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHPPivdHD6D2CkmjcQk7zZRBgDispOIErea86-9QncwFm8akc265eyzMaBySgHoshv7tCWWhCZXVfK8np3AZdlDEM6ZwFcs439lgSynhSLiKxp2NWD40r-KSBLGISnkfj5uNS1Jcf5jNXqwhUHbNZCj41fLl8D_6LyvKsf6DMapQr1-m7f3NOGf69lw/s320/20230411_162432.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="180" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This robin was busy at work in our yard, another great sign of Spring!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHPPivdHD6D2CkmjcQk7zZRBgDispOIErea86-9QncwFm8akc265eyzMaBySgHoshv7tCWWhCZXVfK8np3AZdlDEM6ZwFcs439lgSynhSLiKxp2NWD40r-KSBLGISnkfj5uNS1Jcf5jNXqwhUHbNZCj41fLl8D_6LyvKsf6DMapQr1-m7f3NOGf69lw/s628/20230411_162432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzLVwEbyLfPIS2vLYE_lufmvgbSX5nBGv5Hxs_RNlIV1LW-Ojuw3MrONkHnxgrNEqQoFFG8JtTSaw3Zb-_8e5iXdQ3VC-TLW_KKJL4wccdaBNG5tlYw3VOq51Ljy3Ktu4tDyZzqIF9PzjEt4DbyHRwN_FLPF-LbPkJ489MCoylOUOkYJuza8jAvDfWw/s1115/20230415_083932-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzLVwEbyLfPIS2vLYE_lufmvgbSX5nBGv5Hxs_RNlIV1LW-Ojuw3MrONkHnxgrNEqQoFFG8JtTSaw3Zb-_8e5iXdQ3VC-TLW_KKJL4wccdaBNG5tlYw3VOq51Ljy3Ktu4tDyZzqIF9PzjEt4DbyHRwN_FLPF-LbPkJ489MCoylOUOkYJuza8jAvDfWw/w640-h360/20230415_083932-5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Spring runoff is always a good sign to see! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlCRBqp7Msiv5L7oN9d6VKDngn6E3ysoi2MTeg1t2l1h-urLFPzU9IfckJq5YtvvIXaqDEp4mMnN1wCrivsbFZ73PoWUUIKwpRdnyPKaZqPP9Jc3SeWi4WRh1oKDDtIOZ70qSLvHF0lBkydMVOhkBJ6Er15jduCdd-6ZJ8XmnpzyUOCYk4hFGEU7xPA/s1115/20230418_072549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1115" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlCRBqp7Msiv5L7oN9d6VKDngn6E3ysoi2MTeg1t2l1h-urLFPzU9IfckJq5YtvvIXaqDEp4mMnN1wCrivsbFZ73PoWUUIKwpRdnyPKaZqPP9Jc3SeWi4WRh1oKDDtIOZ70qSLvHF0lBkydMVOhkBJ6Er15jduCdd-6ZJ8XmnpzyUOCYk4hFGEU7xPA/w640-h360/20230418_072549.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday morning - my world looked a lot like winter! Winter sure has been a bear this year - just doesn't want to leave! However, the snow we got was not very much, and melted quickly, also providing good moisture and nitrogen for the soil. Almost all of our snow left over from winter has melted too, and I have been busy in the garden doing cleanup since last fall. </span></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6LQE7l0QYs0hPsMoAnUrxr-7DEwe3NzyS9KqnbTQZ27y5iBi4P3ryyrLEpkXSKYPlGBqKadsaaEGsTq07FMdNLzTirGLR7oqIIOXAkc996rS4fBlAdYSoY5RlJjb0ilCg9d0Qiw4BMXcrz48XQpZwoK7MMvrbI5jpWFqkXf5DJidBUFQs66TwPSzUg/s628/20230418_072538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6LQE7l0QYs0hPsMoAnUrxr-7DEwe3NzyS9KqnbTQZ27y5iBi4P3ryyrLEpkXSKYPlGBqKadsaaEGsTq07FMdNLzTirGLR7oqIIOXAkc996rS4fBlAdYSoY5RlJjb0ilCg9d0Qiw4BMXcrz48XQpZwoK7MMvrbI5jpWFqkXf5DJidBUFQs66TwPSzUg/w360-h640/20230418_072538.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And even though we may have snow in April<br />we will have blooms in May! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">How is Spring looking in your world? I know that springtime blooms will be bursting out here soon, and I am looking forward to it with great anticipation! The baby chicks are growing-growing, and soon I will have them ready for locals and friends. Their little antics are so fun to watch! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sCVBMmAd-7OIUuonrlqOG4RDmLmv0gPwX0OPJ6dOpa5-0tED2ZbtSfhFFy8L0t3MtKo2ZsMC1jZHnzXm8k43jTsVsstBA4__60KP5qWa3eObcj16RAdJWUseNTRoyNEgu1fGjqdVYbRCQ9X6IYZ6WHhP2R_93_o-O33xGp4PT_RAxcMerNBWpMxMsQ/s628/20230415_072927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sCVBMmAd-7OIUuonrlqOG4RDmLmv0gPwX0OPJ6dOpa5-0tED2ZbtSfhFFy8L0t3MtKo2ZsMC1jZHnzXm8k43jTsVsstBA4__60KP5qWa3eObcj16RAdJWUseNTRoyNEgu1fGjqdVYbRCQ9X6IYZ6WHhP2R_93_o-O33xGp4PT_RAxcMerNBWpMxMsQ/s320/20230415_072927.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A dear friend of mine who buys eggs from me has started collecting her scraps, and bringing them to the chickens when she gets her eggs. Isn't that a great blessing! I think it is a wonderful trade-off :) <br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Well, I must close for now ... my yard is full of pine needles and pine cones that must be raked to allow the grass to grow, and my garden needs a lot of attention - lots of cleanup after winter's heavy snow. I have leaves and compost to spread, and seedlings to baby... ah yes, the joys of springtime! Now that the snow has had time to melt, it will be good to get these things done! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="441" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cdXTSKxXcDU" width="531" youtube-src-id="cdXTSKxXcDU"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Leaving you with this beautiful worship medley to enjoy,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">may your heart be encouraged and blessed in the Lord</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">and the beauty around us in Springtime! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Marilyn @ MountainTopSpicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600290895531484438noreply@blogger.com48