Gg - notes on the journey

Just a little time to rest (and play)

2012-01-30T04:00:00.000-08:00

Shocking, I know ... but I am taking a blogging break for a few weeks. Just a little time to rest, see some friends and drink lots of tea.

See you soon.

image credit

Sugar and its' ugly twin ... white flour

2012-01-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

It has been months since I have eaten any sugar or flour. Months and months ... not a single drop during my birthday, Christmas or New Years.

Oh. my. goodness ... last week I decided (I have no idea why) to have a scone ... just one lemon scone from my favorite bakery in Chicago. (Bake)

INSTANTLY I wanted nothing but ...more sugar especially with yummy white flour.

I need to make a decision ... I felt great when I had no sugar and no flour. Really. really. great.

How about you?

image credit

The Perfectly Imperfect Home ~ a book review

2012-01-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

Jenny and I were having a lovely browse at Barnes and Noble,when I came across a new book. It was truly love at first sight. The Perfectly Imperfect Home: How to Decorate & Live Well (by Deborah Needleman), had my name written all over it.

A few of my favorite words:

   * jollifiers - sentimental things that spread a little joy everytime you cast your eye upon them.

     *mollifiers - stuff that you allow into your home because as awful as it may be, it makes someone else happy.

     *cozification - those things that add dimension to our space, like rugs, textiles, throws and patterns. In fact, without decorating cozification, a hot drink or blazing fire would not feel quite as welcoming.

     *glamification - things that add surprising boldness, sparkle, shine, color and pattern to our home. (Remember, simplicity and glamor go hand in hand.)

A few favorite ideas:

   * place a lamp on your kitchen counter

   * frame the art of children, including their words and doodles

   *put a few things "where they aren't supposed to be." These small whimsical touches show that you do not take your home too seriously. (Stick a snapshot into the edge of an antique mirror.)

   *add an out of scale piece to a room (a giant palm tree)

   *use flexible furniture, like an ottoman (coffee table, foot stool, or seating)

Some favorite advice:

   *drag your whole lamp into the shade store and try on shades like outfits, to see which looks best.

      *the implicit promise of upholstered furniture is pleasure and comfort, and every home needs a few chairs that just beg to be sat in.

     *it is wise to start with a furniture plan before you shop, but don't be afraid to rearrange, and then rearrange again and again.

     *throws look best neatly folded, hanging over the arm or back of an armchair. Use them, though: they are corny when just for show; stuck like a Band-Aid to the arm of a chair.

OK, I love this book. It is full of practical, homey and cozy advice. Yesterday, I spent about an hour sprucing up my home ... using a few ideas I had learned from this amazing book.

The beautiful illustrations are by Virginia Johnson and many of them are from real homes, like Kate Spade's home and Rita Konig's home.

Here is my advice ... go and buy this book TODAY.

image credit: 1, 2, 3, 4

A Winter Walk

2012-01-23T04:00:00.000-08:00

I love walking with Dave ... even in Chicago's cold temperatures. Have you been out for a walk with someone you love?

image: Christy took this cool picture ... not sure how she did it ... but I love it.

Pillow Talk

2012-01-21T06:35:00.000-08:00

My love language is ... TALK. And I love to get in bed at night for a long cozy talk with my husband. Dave likes to talk too, but he falls asleep the second his head hits the pillow.

A few weeks ago we had this conversation, as I was in bed reading and he was falling asleep.

Sleepy Dave to wide awake Glenda: " Hey babe, I keep forgetting to tell you something. Remind me in the morning to tell you about this book I am reading. It is about ... pruning and our dating life."

Wide awake Glenda to now almost asleep Dave: "Really Dave, now you have me super curious ... pruning and our dating life? At least give me a little hint."

Dave: "Good night, babe."

PS. Issues with blogger. I have heard from several of you that you have been having problems leaving comments on my blog. I have also been having problems with spacing ... my draft looks perfect ... then when I post it ... blogger changes the spacing and I can not fix it. Come on blogger ... help us out here. (pretty please!)

Presents from England are oh so cool

2012-01-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

When we picked Christy up from the airport for her visit for the holidays ... her suitcase was heavy and we were banned from looking in it. There were

*I am home presents.

*Birthday presents for Jenny and me.
*Christmas presents for all of us for Christmas Eve.

*Stocking stuffers . . . all from ENGLAND.


A lovely tray for my birthday.


Goodies from the Cath Kidson outlet.


Piles and piles of Tetley Tea ... here a travel sized version.

Fun reads from British authors.

Oxford University sweat shirt ... in pink!

And just for the record ... the Chicago contingency came through with really fun gifts, too. Thanks Dave, Christy and Jenny.

Those Pesky Goodbyes

2012-01-16T04:30:00.000-08:00

I like it (a lot) when the four of us are in the same city ... and even more the same house. Christmas has come and gone and we had a brilliant time. I quote one of our daughters, "It is ridiculous how much fun the four of us have together."

I totally agree with Charlie Brown, "I hate goodbyes. They make my throat hurt. I need a lot more hellos."

Christy has returned to England, Jenny is back to work and Dave is beginning a busy work season. I am so grateful to God, for the wonderful three weeks we had together.

How were your holidays?

Linking with the lovely Suzanne at Privet and Holly.

Cowboy Caviar

2012-01-13T05:50:00.000-08:00

Cowboy Caviar is my go-to recipe when I want something delicious and fresh. We enjoyed this on New Year's Eve this year. Serve it with tortilla chips and celery sticks for dipping.

Cowboy Caviar

1 can black beans

1 can white hominy or chickpeas

1 can yellow hominy or navy beans

1 red pepper, finely chopped

1 yellow pepper, finely chopped

1 bunch green onions, finely chopped

1 roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped

1 bunch cilantro, chopped

Dressing: 1/2 cup olive oil, juice of 2 limes, salt and pepper and 1 or more cloves garlic, crushed

Solving Problems at ... The Container Store

2012-01-11T06:08:00.000-08:00

The day before Christy flew back to England, we made a quick dash into The Container Store, for something she needed. I have driven by that store so many times and was rather afraid to go in ... I love organizational things and did not want to get sucked in.

But this day was perfect ... we were in a big hurry and I had only 10 minutes to do a quick browse. I was not looking for anything in particular, but for under ten dollars, I solved two problems that had been bugging me for ages.


Dave likes to keep his keys here

Our keys now have a happy home here ... which we both like.

Happy home on fridge

My delicious sea salt from Penzeys Spices came in a zip lock bag and it would not zip shut anymore. (Spices were really important and added lots of flavor on my recent diet.) I found an adorable mini canning jar ... perfect.

tiny cuteness

I wish that all of my issues could be solved for ten dollars at The Container Store.

Do you have a favorite organizational store near you?

How I Lost 30 Pounds

2012-01-09T04:30:00.000-08:00

Me 30 pounds lighter

It seems that each January as I think about the new year's goals, I always have at the top of my list ... lose weight. Well, this year, I am starting the new year 30 pounds lighter than last year. And it feels quite lovely.

The Diet

Just before we moved from Seattle, I heard about the
hcg diet from a friend's chiropractor. But we were busy packing, so I did not have time to think about it. Later, I started seeing friends on facebook and some blogging friends, tell about their success.

I started doing some research on line, including some medical people that I respect. I called a few friends who had done the diet. I decided that it was the right diet for me and my lifestyle.

The hcg diet requires every meal to be cooked from scratch, and you do it in 21 day day increments. So I looked at my calendar and found a quiet 21 days and ... went for it.

I love this diet. The food is good. You are never hungry. And the weight comes off quickly. It also has a good maintenance plan, which is essential for me.

Note: If you are interested, click on the hcg link above and Lori and Kelli will take great care of you. They offer the homeopathic drops. These are becoming harder to get, so order soon.

Nutritional Support

I took a lot of supplements to support my body during the process.

Losing weight releases a lot of toxins into your body, so I wanted to support my liver. I took NuSkin Detox and drank a gallon of water every day.

I also took Vitality for extra energy. (Dave said to me often, "You haven't had this much energy for years." Extra energy is good.)
I absolutely would not do the hcg diet without these supplements. (just my opinion)

Note:If you would like to place a monthly automatic order for these products, and get them at wholesale, you can contact my friend, Marshall Brand. (952.897.0544) Tell him Glenda sent you.

Emotional and Spiritual Support

I was also interested in pursuing the emotional and spiritual side of overeating. I studied a great series (book and video) Made to Crave. It is so well done.

Well, that is my story. If you have any questions, feel free to e.mail me.

ps. Later this year I will start another round and work on the last 20 pounds. I cannot wait.

Church Bells

2012-01-05T06:29:00.000-08:00

My husband has his alarm set to ... church bells. They start out very quiet and gradually get a bit louder. It is a very pleasing sound and makes me happy every morning.

I learned to love the sound of church bells during our many summers of travel in Europe. We took students on short term mission trips with Royal Servants.

We tented around Europe. I always said that we got to see, smell and hear the same wonderful bits in each beautiful city, as those who stayed in luxury hotels.

Laying in our cozy tent beds, surrounded by fresh air, and hearing a church bell off in the distance was always a thrill for me. (Now, I dream of hearing those same bells from the comfort of a luxury hotel.)

One can never forget the first time you hear the church bells in Amsterdam ... the same bells Anne Frank wrote about hearing, while they were in hiding during World War II.

Here in our vintage Chicago apartment, I can periodically hear church bells when I am running our laundry up and down the outside back steps.

I love church bells.

What do you wake up to?

image credit: church bells

30 things to do in January

2012-01-03T04:00:00.000-08:00

We have been talking about all the reasons that I love January. I know that for some of us it is a hard month. So I thought you might enjoy a little jump start, thus ... 30 things to do in January. Are you ready?

1. rest

2. sit by the fire and read a fun January magazine

3. organize your junk drawer

4. read a book to learn something new

5. read a book - just for fun

6. explore a new restaurant

7. do a puzzle

8. go to church 15 minutes early and enjoy the quiet

9. invite a neighbor in for tea

10. write a letter (shocking, I know, but people still enjoy receiving a hand written letter)

11. treat yourself to a delicious hot chocolate

12. enjoy a winter walk

13. pay attention to the beautiful winter sky (I just rearranged our furniture to create my morning quiet time spot in front of our huge dining room windows. I love watching the morning sky change from dark, to dark blue, to light.)

14. pay attention to the sun ... days are already getting longer (an encouragement for us that live in cold climates)

15. meet a friend at a favorite coffee shop

16. build a snowman (My brother Tim and his gang build an igloo every winter. They even hang a string of twinkle lights. This year, they decided that the day they build it, they are going to have pizza delivered ... to the igloo.)

17. memorize a chapter of the Bible

18. enjoy a scented candle

19. fix simple meals, but set the table every night with a tablecloth and a candle

20. buy warm and cozy merino wool socks

21. start a creative project

22. finish a creative project that you began last year

23. hold hands with your honey

24. watch your top 10 favorite movies

25. make soup

26. hang a string of twinkle lights over a bookcase

27. try a new tea (celestial seasonings chai tea is great)

28. turn the computer off on the weekends

29. go to bed 30 minutes earlier each night

30. write Lamentations 3:23 and 23 on an index card and read it every morning when you first wake up

Have a wonderful month.

What are your favorite January activities?

image credit: snowman, fireplace, hot chocolate, winter sky, candles, yarn

Why I love January . . . a month of promise

2011-12-29T19:47:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, I have loved the month of January. Now, there is nothing wrong with the delightful month of December ... it is full of color, lights, trees, advent, beautiful church services, presents, baking, company, shopping, card writing and more.

What a wonderful thing it is to follow this beautiful month of December, with the much slower and quieter month of January. Life gets simpler. It is truly a gift.

Even my home reflects the feeling in my heart. After all the lovely clutter of the holiday, I am enjoying more space and order. A fresh placement of my furniture makes me happy, also.

After all the yummy snacks and food, my January refrigerator is stocked with a much lighter fare.

January is a month to rest and reflect. I like to spend a quiet night, in front of our very fake apartment fireplace, (which we actually like and use a lot) and re-read all the Christmas cards we received and pray for each friend that sent them. (It is a great time to update your address book, too.)

Often my routines get set aside during Christmas and January is a great time to put them back in place. A more leisurely morning quiet time, exercise, that stack of books to read, and the friend I have been wanting to connect with.

And it is a new year, too. What a bonus. I love new things and fresh starts. Some of my favorite verses in the Bible are Lamentations 3:22 and 23.

The steadfast love of the Lord
never ceases, His mercies never
come to an end, they are new
every morning, great is Your
faithfulness.

New mercies ... every morning. We have so much to be grateful for.

Happy January, friends.

PS. Come back next week for my post 30 things to do in January.

image credit 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

How to Take your Christmas Decorations Down in an Orderly and Fun Manner

2011-12-28T09:28:00.000-08:00

I am oldish. So I have been taking Christmas decorations down for a long time. Over the years I have developed a system . . . that works for me. Today, I want to share it with you, if you want to try it.

Step one: Enlist the help of your whole family to carry up the Christmas bins from storage. (In our case, bribes help, because it is cold in Chicago and we have to go outside.)

I love the sturdy red and green Christmas storage bins (from Target) and all my Christmas stuff fits in them.

Step two: Choose a stack of your favorite Christmas cd's, to keep you company while you work.

Step three: Pour a beverage or two. (For me, hot tea and seltzer water on ice.) Refill throughout the process.

Step four: Take down the tree first. I have one bin for everything tree related. (ornaments, lights, ribbons and beads) I pack them up and the tree. Now you have more space and are starting to get excited for . . . peaceful January.

Step five: Clean off your dining table. Get a big tray and walk through the house, room by room, collecting your Christmas decorations. Put them on the table. This may take several trips.

(My mantle for January)

Step six: Have an innocent bystander (fresh eyes) walk through the house to find any bits you forgot.

(Our best Christmas present . . . the girls are home.)

Step seven: Pack up everything on the table in the rest of your bins. (For me, this part is in random order, just anywhere things fit. I do try to balance the weight.)

Step eight: Beg your family to put their winter coats back on and carry the boxes back down stairs.

I work hard and fast and take a food break when needed. (left overs from Christmas dinner)

Have fun.

January is in the air

2011-12-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

It is beginning to look a lot like . . . January. I woke up this morning with great anticipation. January is one of my favorite months. I can almost hear, taste and smell it.

I am trying to stay in the moment - that this is the day after Christmas. Maybe I should just relax and enjoy the tree and decorations for one more day.

But I cannot help myself, as an always forward moving person, I want to take the decorations down ... so tomorrow I can act like January is already here.

What I will do, is poll my family today. If they want another day of Christmas, I will give it to them as my final present of the season.

So, I am off to see what the family thinks ... but later this week, I will be back to talk more about January.

image credit: snowman

The Perfect Christmas Gift

2011-12-22T05:30:00.000-08:00

I have the perfect Christmas present idea. It is good

for anyone

anywhere

for your neighbors that you hardly know

for your friends that are grieving

for the young couple who just had a baby

for the young couple who just lost their baby

for your college kids

for your wee kids

for your aging parents

for your pastors

for your administrative assistant

even, for your enemies.

These past few months, I have been re-reading some of my all time favorite books, while I eat lunch and just before I go to sleep. Right now, I am in the middle of Tramp for the Lord, by Corrie Ten Boom.

(If you have not read any of her books before, you will want to start with The Hiding Place, which recounts her families experiences during WWII. They were put in concentration camps for hiding Jews in their home in Holland.)

I am in the middle of her story that takes place after the war. Corrie goes to Germany and buys a former concentration camp and has a home for German refugees of the war.

This morning, Corrie and hymn writer, Fannie Crosby reminded me that the best gift we can give this Christmas is grace, love and kindness.

"Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,

Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;

Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness

Chords that were broken will vibrate once more."

Merry Christmas to you, my dear blogging friends.

Cookies for Heroes

2011-12-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

I do not bake much these days . . . you know, trying to eat healthier, it is just the two of us to eat a whole batch of cookies, etc.

But yesterday, I had fun baking piles and piles of cookies . . . for some HEROES.

I wish you could pop in with me today for our Christmas party for WorldVenture retired missionaries. They are some of the coolest people and each a hero. You would hear amazing stories of their service to God in different countries around the world.

A little bag of cookies is a small gift, but it comes with deep respect.

This is a great recipe, that I have shared before. It was super easy to make four batches, so give it a try if you also need mounds of cookies for some of your heroes.

Gooey Butter Cookies

1 stick butter, room temperature
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 box Duncan Hines lemon cake mix
1 cup chocolate chips
powdered sugar (for rolling the cookies)

Cream butter and cream cheese. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat in the dry cake mix. Add chips.

Refrigerate dough for two hours or overnight. Shape into walnut sized balls and roll in powdered sugar. Bake for 12 minutes at 350 degrees.

And if you are wondering, while this is a dainty cookie, guys love it.

Happy baking!

PS. WorldVenture is the great mission organization that we serve with.

A Quiet December Tradition

2011-12-12T18:10:00.000-08:00

Eleven years ago, was our last summer taking students to Europe. (with Royal Servants International) I always saved some spending money for duty free shopping in Heathrow airport, just before we boarded our flight home.

Sometimes I would buy a teapot, or piles of chocolate for friends, or Whittards tea tins. That last summer, I headed to the bookshop and was immediately drawn to the latest Rosemunde Pilcher book.

It was a really cool large paperback copy, that you could only get in England. I have read that book every December for the past eleven years. It is a sweet, lovely story with a beautiful Christmas theme.

How fun it is to look forward to hours of fun reading, with great bits in England and Scotland. I finished it this morning.

Next week, I will begin my other December book, Shepherd's Abiding by Jan Karon.

Do you have a favorite December read?

PS. I lent Winter Solstice to my friend Kate, a few years ago. She hated it. "All they do is drink restoring cups of tea . . . over and over again," was Kate's response when she returned the book. My response, "I know, is it not wonderful."

Soon and . . . VERY SOON!

2011-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

Soon and very soon . . . I will be listening to one of my favorite sounds in the world . . .

these two lovelies talking and laughing!

Merry Christmas to me!

WHAT? No Internet . . .

2011-12-05T08:49:00.001-08:00

While my husband was having a wonderful week of ministry in Indonesia, last week, I was going to finally catch up on all my blog reading. It was my plan to leave hundreds of comments all over the world wide web . . . until my internet went out.

What does one do with a week of no internet? My answer is:

1. a lot, and
2. a lot of fun and useful things

I finished a huge project that has been on my to.do list for a long time (sh! it is a present for my husband), listened to hours of beautiful Christmas music, had dinner with a friend, got lots of Christmas shopping done, read a book, hosted a group of lovely girls here on Saturday morning, took a long walk, deep cleaned our apartment, enjoyed some great time with Jenny . . . etc.

What do you think? Maybe I should go without the internet one week a month or at least a day or two a week? Anyone want to join me? (I double dog dare you.)

image credit: to do list

Sweet Bonnie

2011-12-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

Have you had a chance to meet any blogging friends?

Right before my oral surgery and Thanksgiving . . . I tucked in a wonderful treat for myself. I met the lovely Bonnie, of From a Writers Kitchen, for lunch at Whole Foods.

I do not know how you are . . . but I always feels super excited and a little nervous to meet an online friend. But I highly recommend it. Each time that I have had the opportunity . . . it has been WONDERFUL.

Bonnie and I chatted for a couple of hours . . . and I had the feeling we could have gone on all afternoon. While I already knew some things about Bonnie (like we both love Nicolas Mosse pottery from Ireland), there is always more fun things to learn.

My favorite was that Bonnie put in a few years working at the Pentagon. I asked her what September 11 was like for her, since she could picture the building from personal experience.

Thanks, Bonnie, woman extraordinaire, for a wonderful visit. (Sorry for no photo . . . I forgot my camera.)

My favorite way to use up the last bits of turkey

2011-11-29T11:37:00.001-08:00

I love this post Thanksgiving recipe. Enjoy.

Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole

1 package (6 ounce) long grain and wild rice mix
1/2 pound bulk sausage
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 cup celery
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon worchestershire sauce
3 cups cooked turkey, chopped
1 cup dried cranberries

Prepare rice. Set aside.

Cook sausage, mushrooms and celery. Drain grease, leaving 1 tablespoon. Set mixture aside.

Add corn starch to drippings. Stir and cook one minute. Add milk and worchestershire sauce. Cook until thick.

Combine all ingredients in a greased casserole. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.

image credit: recipe card

5 Reasons I Decorate for Christmas on Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-11-27T15:39:00.001-08:00

1. I, by nature, temperament and life experience, am a forward moving person. Once an event (Thanksgiving) is over, I have quickly moved on and am already living in the next event. (Christmas) So, I just want to decorate for Christmas NOW.

2. My family firmly refuses to carry my Christmas boxes up all those flights of stairs on Thanksgiving evening. (imagine!) But Friday morning, I have willing slaves, I mean, helpers.

3. I cannot wait any longer to open and listen to my new Michael Buble Christmas cd. I buy a new cd each holiday season.

4. The minute Christmas is over (see #1), I am ready to take everything down, and begin to enjoy the post Christmas simplicity. So putting up my decorations early, gives us plenty of time to truly enjoy their beauty.

5. If I have not convinced you yet, I have saved the best reason for last. Because of all the delicious Thanksgiving dinner leftovers . . . I can decorate all weekend, eat yummy food and NOT DO ANY COOKING.

Whenever you decorate and however you celebrate, I wish you an early Merry Christmas. This morning at church, we lit the first Advent candle . . . the candle of HOPE. "And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in YOU." Psalm 39:7

Thankful for Thanksgiving Memories

2011-11-25T05:01:00.001-08:00

In a few weeks, I am turning 59. (wow) That means that I have enjoyed many Thanksgivings. Because of a complication in my recent oral surgery and more time to rest, I have had lots of time to reminisce.

pumpkin pie with nut topping . . . yum.

Random Thanksgiving Memories

*During college, I was always invited to the home of my friend, Nadine, in Lodi, California, where her family always welcomed me with such kindness.

*The big Johnson Thanksgivings were wonderful, when dad was pastoring in Spokane and we all still lived there. A huge and loud crowd around dad and mom's table . . . with lots of babies. (my girls have 14 Johnson cousins)

*My brother, Tim, lived with us while he was engaged to the lovely Holly. That Thankgsiving, we invited her family over.

*One Thanksgiving, dad and mom, flew from the hot and humid Philippines to spend the holiday with us in Minneapolis. We took them to the Holidazzle parade. My dad thought he might just freeze to death, as it was 5 degrees. (There was not enough Starbucks in the world to make up for that temperature difference.)

The first Thanksgiving after my mom died was, of course, so hard. We wanted to still be together, but wanted it to be a little different, so everyone came to our house in Seattle. Early Thanksgiving morning, we received a call that my 30 year old nephew, Dax, had died. It was a difficult time for our family.

*We all remember the Thanksgiving visit from Tim and Holly and their kids. On Thanksgiving day we had an early lunch feast, took them to the airport and we were so sad, we four went to see a movie.

*Of course, all the Thanksgivings when the girls were little made for great memories. Reading books, making projects and always on Thanksgiving morning, making an apple turkey. (with raisins and toothpicks) As a family, we memorized Psalm 100, and still love listening to the tape of Jenny reciting it when she was two. (Shout to the "lod" all ye "erth".)

Yesterday, was another wonderful day, and we have so many reasons to give thanks to the Lord. We ended our day with a lovely long chat with Christy, via skype.

How was your Thanksgiving?

My Get-Well Strategy

2011-11-21T02:28:00.001-08:00

I like some strange things . . . like cleaning my house, packing and moving and recovering from surgery. I know, weird.

Friday I had oral surgery (again) and while I do not enjoy the actual process, I do enjoy the recovery. I plan for it and I look forward to it.

Here is my get-well strategy:

1. Spruce my house up.

2. Put clean sheets on our bed.

3. Launder my favorite comfy pajamas.

4. Stock up on snacks and favorite beverages. (in this case, easy to chew and lots of protein)

5. Borrow good movies from Jenny. (The Holiday, Julie and Julia, Dan in Real Life and No Reservations)

6. Save a stack of great magazines to read. (December issue of Life:Beautiful, Country Living and Better Homes and Garden)

7. Enjoy resting.

PS.

8. Make sure you marry a guy that takes good care of you. (Thanks, Dave)

9. Do take your Christmas card picture . . . before oral surgery.

image credit: cozy bedroom

Dear Jeanne, Welcome to Viet Nam (part two)

2011-11-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Jeanne,

Welcome to Viet Nam.

I cannot believe that you and your family are moving to Viet Nam. I have been reflecting on my years there. Of course, it was ages ago and it was during the war years . . . so much will have changed . . . but the culture will still be the same.

Here are some random thoughts . . .

1. Vietnamese food is awesome. We ate it several times a week in our home. You will love it.

2. Southeast Asia has amazing fruit. Fresh papaya with lime was a regular breakfast treat. We enjoyed so many other fruits I had never even heard of before, that became favorites.

3. You will enjoy the French influence (not exactly Paris, but a strong presence.) We had a tradition of picking up fresh baguettes every Sunday evening, which we ate with peanut butter (that we ground ourselves.) The beauty salons and photography shops also had a French flair.

4. Get use to sweat (glow) and a lot of it. It is oh so, HOT. That Southeast Asian heat and humidity is something else. (This will be an adjustment from England.)

5. The Vietnamese people are so lovely and friendly. They loved being in our home and often invited us into theirs. They are very hospitable.

6. The holiday of Tet is very fun and all about visiting in homes, gifts, really good food and candied coconut. (yum)

7. Whenever you have "had it" with the heat and noise of the city, you can escape upcountry to the beautiful highland city of Dalat. (which is were we lived for four years.) It is 70 degrees year round, pine trees, wonderful hotels and restaurants, fun open markets and gigantic strawberries. A great holiday location.

8. The open markets are wonderful . . . flowers, fruits and veggies, clothes etc. You will enjoy shopping there.

7. The traffic is wild and crazy. I understand that what was thousands of bicycles are now thousands of motorbikes. (and yes, I would take your bike)

8. The language is both hard and fun. There are six tones . . . so every word has six meanings, depending on the tone you use. It makes the language very musical but hard to learn. It also makes for great stories. You may think you are giving a proper hello to an older honored woman, but you are really saying "hello cow," or "hello number three." But you will have some fun trying.

Well, I could go on and on . . . Vietnamese coffee, the tea plantations, the beautiful national dress for women, the wonderful tailor shops, etc. but I do not want to overwhelm you.

I am excited for you, Jeanne. This will be a very interesting expat experience and I am praying for your family in the transition.

Fondly,
Glenda

Ps. You will be glad if you know how to use chopsticks.

Dear Jeanne, Welcome to Viet Nam (part one)

2011-11-17T04:00:00.000-08:00

The blogging world is so ridiculously interesting and fun. I met the lovely Jeanne, of Collage of Life while we were still in Seattle. So, a fun Seattle to England connection.

When we moved to Chicago, I brought all my blogging friends along. So now a fun Chicago to England connection.

Jeanne and her husband have led a fascinating expat life. Their latest posting was a few years in England. So, when our oldest daughter, Christy, moved to England three months ago, Jeanne wrote an amazing post welcoming Christy to her new life in England. A wonderful England to England connection.

Jeanne and her husband have led an amazing expat life. Recently they have been awaiting news for the location of their next assignment/post. Image my surprise to read that their next expat home will be VIET NAM, where I grew up. So now I get to return the favor. A Chicago to Viet Nam connection.

Come back tomorrow for, "Dear Jeanne, Welcome to Viet Nam (part two)."

A Year "in the city"

2011-11-16T12:41:00.001-08:00

In Chicago, you live "in the city" or you live "in the suburbs." People are always surprised when we say that we live "in the city." Well . . . it is because we are not young, like most of our many neighbors.

We have just celebrated our one year anniversary of our move to Chicago and our move into our fun city/vintage apartment.

one year later

While we miss Seattle, we really love it here.

Dear blogging friends

2011-11-14T17:28:00.001-08:00

Dear blogging friends,

My life has been a tad on the busy/crazy side the past two months. (90% really good stuff)

But, I have not had time to read any blogs or make comments, which I really love to do.

Just wanted you to know that ~ I MISS YOU.

Fondly,
Glenda

PS. Please do not forget me.

image credit: vintage typewriter

HGTV comes to our house

2011-11-09T06:33:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wished for some of your favorite design stars to pop over to your home for a cup of coffee and a little advice?

*What color would you paint this cabinet?

*Should I paint my oak dining chairs?

*How can I best design my tiny guest room?

My list, like yours, would go on and on.

Well, here is the next best thing . . .

Did you know that HGTV just premiered their new magazine? I picked it up last week at Whole Foods. (Missing Borders . . . sniff, sniff.)

I am only half way through and I already love it. Lots of bits and pieces about the designers and loads of easy quick decorating ideas. My favorite article so far is an amazing tour of Sarah Richardson's farmhouse. (even inside her cupboards)

They are offering a great charter gift rate of 10 issues for $15. Pick a copy up. I think you will love it.

How to add three hours to your day

2011-11-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was day light savings time, if you live in my part of the world. (In Bicester, England, where Christy lives, it was last week.)

My husband was out of town, so I woke up with determination. I might be creative and practical and intentional, but mechanical or mathematical, I AM NOT. So, I had my morning tea, put on my thinking cap and set out . . . and I changed all the clocks in our apartment. (feeling quite proud)

Jenny had spent the night and wanted to head back to her apartment around noon. We scurried around all morning, getting everything done on our list, to make sure she could return home on time.

Do you already know where this is going? Time sure was going fast . . .

Jenny and I had a huge laugh, just moments before she left, when we realised that I had set the clocks the wrong direction. Even saying, "in the fall, we fall back", means nothing in my head.

Ha, we had "gained" three hours. Jenny left at 10:00 and had a wonderful day at home.

image credit: vintage clock

How to teach your kids the real meaning of Christmas - The Dolls Party. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 31)

2011-11-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

Phew. We have made it to 31 days. (finally)

Do you know the Biblical accout of Jesus turning the water into wine? The guests, not knowing what had happened, were so shocked and pleased that the host had saved the best wine for last.

Well, I have saved my favorite idea for last. Did the title get you a little curious? This idea is a little weird, but we loved this tradition.

Let me give you a little background. I have a large family and holidays were getting a little complicated trying to fit in the Johnson family Christmas, personal family Christmas and in.laws etc. So our extended family made some changes.

On Christmas Day, everyone stayed home. That gave you Christmas Eve to be with in.laws. And the big traditional Johnson family Christmas . . . we did on January 1. Everyone had it off. We just got up that morning and acted like it was another Christmas morning. (brilliant, eh?) And we did not have to cross the nasty pass, the same day the rest of Seattle was.

My husband's family was far away . . . so we were always just the four of us for Christmas. I wanted each part to still be special. This is how our Doll's Birthday Party for Jesus began.

We read a lot of Tasha Tudor. Becky's Christmas is one of our all time favorite books. Sadly, it is not in print and we do not own a copy. We read a library copy every year. Tasha was a very creative mom and created a magical time for her kids each year. She had a dolls and animals party with her kids and neighbors every year.

The Doll's Christmas tells about it and it is in print. So we adapted her idea to work for us. (but no animals allowed)

On Christmas Eve afternoon. The girls and I threw a little birthday party for Jesus and invited their American Girl dolls. Their dolls are very generous and always brought a present for the girls. And the girls spent hours making a present for their dolls. (One year they created a magazine for them.)

Since Christmas is a busy time in our kitchen (No family around, so I cooked all the food), we ordered a simple small round, single layer cake from our bakery. Of course, it said HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS.

It was a simple event, we had cake, talked about the day of Jesus' birth, and the girls exchanged gifts with their dolls.

We. had. a. lovely. time.

photo credit: The Doll's Christmas by Tasha Tudor

It is RED CUP day in Chicago. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 30)

2011-11-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

It is RED CUP day in Chicago. This year I had my first drink (tall decaf) of the season alone. Dave and Jenny were working and Christy is in England where RED CUP day is Thursday.

I was running errands at Target when I realised, so I rushed right over to get one. The new decaf is delicious, but it takes a minute, as they hand pour the hot water over the coffee.

The barista handed me a cup with the sleve already on it. As I stepped over to add some milk, I realized they had given me the regular old white cup.

One cannot drink their coffee out of a white cup on RED CUP day. So, I asked the girl at the end of the counter if I could please have a RED CUP. She said, "No, you did not buy that coffee here. We only serve red cups."

We went back and forth, until the first barista finally came over and rescued me. Then she got yelled at for serving a white cup. (Let me clarify, it was not me yelling.)

But, everyone does know that you do no serve coffee in a white cup on RED CUP day, right?

How to teach your kids the real meaning of Christmas - Advent. 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 29)

2011-10-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

When our girls were little, we did a lot of life together with my friend, Kae, and her kids. Kae taught me about Advent. Growing up overseas, it was not a part of my Christmas experience.

Kae's dad was a Lutheran pastor in the Midwest, so it was a big part of her Christmas season. I picked Kae's brains for hours, to help me decide how our family would celebrate Advent. Advent calendars, Advent candles, Advent devotionals . . . so many decisions.

Remember, my thoughts on ideas. Sometimes, you take the ideas just as you hear it. Other times, you adapt them. And sometimes, you do not do them at all.

I took all the great information from Kae and adapted it to meet my desires for our little family. Here what I ended up with.

1. Advent calendars. If the girls got one as a gift, they put it on their bedroom door and opened a window every morning. But I wasn't involved in it.

2. Advent candles. We wanted the lighting of candles to be a part of our celebration. But, (I am a little goofy.) I do not like the traditional Advent candle, where you light one each week and they are all different heights. (See, I told you.)

Instead, we had two pillars candles that we lit. This way, both girls got to light and snuff a candle. (No fighting over whose turn it was.)

3. Advent devotions. I was looking for something very simple, that took no preparation. And I wanted something we could do each night. Focus on the Family had the perfect book for our family. (Family celebrations: Meeting Christ in Your Holidays and special Occasions by Ann Hibbard.)

It came with the pattern for a cool felt banner with a Christmas tree, and a felt ornament to add each night to represent what we were studying. So fun. Once that was made, we did this year after year . . . with no preparation.

Our family loved reading the same Scripture passages, memorizing the same verses and saying the same prayers . . . year after year. We also used her book for our Thanksgiving and our Easter celebrations. Each one had a banner. I. loved. doing. this. When we had company for dinner, we just included them.

I have heard great things about the Jesse Tree Advent devotion, too. You can get a free download of this from Ann Voskamp. (I got to hear Ann speak last week and talk with her afterwards. She is really amazing.Thanks, Shelly.)

How does your family celebrate Advent?

How to teach your kids the spiritual meaning of Christmas - Nativity Scenes. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 28)

2011-10-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

As parents we wanted Christmas for our daughters to be fun and memorable. We wanted to include in our traditions and fun . . . our spiritual heritage.

As followers of Christ, it was our desire to teach our girls the historical and Biblical accounts of Jesus Christs' birth. I found three really great and easy ways to do this. Today, I will share the first one with you.

Collect nativity scenes.

We collected two types of nativity scenes.

          1. In our travels around the world we
          were always on the look out for nativity
          scenes. These were more of the folk style
          that represented the country we were
          visiting. I personally, prefer small things,
          so I collected 6 - 8 inch versions. These
          were on display in our home . . . but not
          for little fingers to touch.

                 2. My second collection (which was so fun) was
         any nativity scene I could find that was
         not fragile. The girls spent many hours
         playing with them. We welcomed little fingers.

         Let me tell you about a few of our favorites:
        (sorry, I cannot show you pictures, remember, the break in.)

                    *I made a felt banner. All the nativity
                 characters, including the animals were
                 made of felt and were finger puppets.
                 (my creative friend, Rainy, designed this) The finger
                 puppets also stuck to the felt banner.

               *Remember the Lillian Vernon catalog?
                 I ordered a tiny wooden nativity, that
                 brought hours of fun.

               *My sister found a cool set at the fair.
                 All the pieces were cut out of plain
                 wood. Nothing was painted.

               *Paper nativities do not last as long, but
                 are so fun. The one we had was from
                 Lion Press, and we bought it in Scotland.
                 Last year, when I was replacing
                 everything, I found The Christmas
                 Manger , by H A Rey. (yup, the author of
                      Curious George.) Super cool.

I also have a collection of nativity ornaments (which were not stolen). And a collection of nativity books. Yes, nativity scenes were a big part of our fun. I guess that is I love Kate's picture so much.

You can start or add to your collection, by ordering this adorable card and framing it. You can see Kate's new website and some of her Christmas collection at http://www.zazzle.com/featherpower. Enjoy.

image credit:The Christmas Manger

Countess of Blessington. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 27)

2011-10-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

I have been a little addicted to my Celestial Seasonings tea this week. And I am enjoying the quotes too. Here is the latest . . .

     "Happiness consists not in having
     much, but in being content with
     little."
                       ~Marguerite Gardiner,
                                   Countess of Blessington

I am most drawn to the Countess of Blessington. Who wouldn't want to be the Countess of Blessington?

It got me thinking about some of the ways that we can be a blessing at Christmas.

Christmas is such a lovely time to offer hospitality to others. My favorite definition of hospitality is "opening your heart to the needs of people by using what God has given you to meet those needs."

There are so many people that would love to be in your home this holiday season. Have you thought about inviting . . .

your neighbors

your kids friends

your pastor and his family

international students (Did you know that 80% of international students are never invited into an American home while they are here?)

your coworkers

the women in your life (of all ages)

college students away from home

children

ME.

Who are you inviting into your home this Christmas season?

RED CUP DAY . . . A Childers' Tradition. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 26)

2011-10-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

We love beverages. WE LOVE RED CUP DAY. (What, you do not know what RED CUP Day is? RED CUP day happens at the end of November. It is the first day Starbucks begins using their Christmas cups to serve coffee. Each year the cup has a different design.

Imagine how much our family would love this "kick off the Christmas season" tradition . . . that includes a beverage. We practically run to Starbucks on this day. RED CUP day makes me happy. And if we can all go together . . . such joy.

This is how simple it is to have a meaningful tradition in your family:

          1. find something you all enjoy (keep it simple)

            2. do it every year

Traditions are so fun . . . especially RED ONES.

image credit: Christy sent us this picture one of the years we were not together on RED CUP day.

A Cup (or two) of Christmas Tea. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 25)

2011-10-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

A Cup of Christmas Tea is a lovely read aloud for all ages. It is a sweet story of a lesson learned on honoring the older in our midst. And the illustrations make you desire a great cup of tea.

Today, I have two favorite tea recipes for you.

The easiest sparkling pink punch ever recipe:

2 liter bottle of clear soda - 7 up, Sprite etc. (diet or regular)

2 Celestial Seasonings zinger tea bags (raspberry zinger is my favorite)

A few hours before you need it, carefully open the chilled soda. "Stuff" the tea bags in the bottle, add the cap and return to the refrigerator until you are ready to enjoy this delicious beverage. Simple. Simple. Simple.

I have served this so many times, I could not keep track. And every time, people love it. I get a lot of "what in the world is in this delicious drink?"

My friend, Melia, taught me this trick.

Herbal Iced Tea (I love cold drinks year round.)

4 Celestial Seasonings Lemon Zinger tea bags
4 Celestial Seasonings Red Zinger tea bags
4 cups pure apple juice

Steep the 8 tea bags in 4 cups of boiling water for about 10 minutes. Discard the tea bags. Combine the tea with the apple juice and refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice.

This recipe is from Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa Family Style. Dave loves it when Ina comes out with a new cookbook, then he know what to get me for Christmas.

Enjoy these easy and delicious drinks.

image credit: A Cup of Christmas Tea

Busy days and a giveaway winner. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (days 22,23,24)

2011-10-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

Life got a little busy and crazy (and fun) this week. For just a moment it actually felt like December. So . . . I did not even make it to my computer to post on Saturday and Sunday. (I even had my post written already.) Today is a big catch up day. (Please come back tomorrow for the promised beverage recipes.)

Today, I thought we could use a little visual inspiration, since I was not able to post this weekend. Off to pinterest I went and did a search for Christmas. I chose just a few I liked. Enjoy.

Hop on to my pinterest for more.

And now . . . a giveaway winner!

The winner is Bonnie of FROM A WRITER'S KITCHEN, who happens to live in Chicago's suburbs. I love Bonnie's food/lifestyle blog. Great recipes and she is also a wordsmith. Perfect combo. Bonnie leaves the most thoughtful comments on my blog.

We recently discovered we both liked Nicolas Mosse pottery from Ireland. This led us to . . . we should have coffee together someday. I will deliver this darling American Girl outfit in person. Bonnie has an American Girl doll, but she was not sure if she was a Cubs fan or not. :-)

Thank you, blogging friends for your prayers for my family and friends having surgery. Everyone is recovering well. We still await some test results, so please continue to pray. You guys are the best.

Can you have a Merry Christmas without caffeine? 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 21)

2011-10-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Can you have a Merry Christmas without caffeine?

Celestial Seasongs say a resounding . . . YES.

I have decided to go off of caffeine. Probaby not forever, but at least for now. (give my liver a break) So I headed to Target to get some Celestial Seasonings Zinger Tea.

I found a sample box with

Raspberry Zinger

Country Peach Passion

Wild Berry Zinger

True Blueberry

Black Cherry Berry.

Brewing 2 bags of each flavor in a small tea pot makes a rich concentrate that I like to mix with my ice water. Try it . . . it is delicious.

Next to the sample box . . . I discovered a pot of gold. Celestial Seasonings Holiday Tea . . . CANDY CANE LANE.

"This delectable holiday blend starts with naturally decaffeinated green tea and adds unmistakable seasonal flavors like cool peppermint, creamy vanilla and a dash of cinnamon."

It. is. delicious.

Check out any box of Celestial Seasonings tea. They are always good and the box has fun art and great quotes.

The Candy Cane Lane quote is

"Let us love winter for

it is the spring of genius."

- Pietro Aretino

PS. Come back tomorrow for two of my favorite (and easy) drinks for the holidays. And guess what? They both use tea.

image credit: celestialseasoningstea.com
(I lost the site for the adorable tea cup.)

Need an easy and inexpensive gift idea? (who doesn't, right?). 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 19)

2011-10-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

As a young pastor's wife, I got invited to tons of wedding showers. With not a lot of wiggle room in our budget, I had to come up with an inexpensive gift . . . that still was a hit at the shower.

This gift that I came up with, is also great at Christmas time. It would be a fantastic:

* hostess gift for your bosses'

Christmas dinner

* gift for the week you spend

at Grandma's house

* Christmas gift for a college student,

newlyweds, teachers or anyone . . . for

that matter.

What is this inexpensive and easy gift, you might ask?

It is a . . . pie plate. Yup, a pie plate.

I stock up on pretty ones, whenever I see them on sale for $5.

Now here is the fun part . . . I hand write on cute recipe cards, my favorite pie recipes. Tie a little ribbon around it and - bingo, the easiest, inexpensive gift that still has wow factor.

(you know which one I would choose)

And because we are talking about Christmas and pies, here is a little gift for you . . . my recipe for

pumpkin pie (oh, do not miss this one)

Everyone . . . can use a darling pie plate.

PS. There is still time to enter my giveaway - a Cubs baseball uniform for your American Girl doll.

image credit: lime green pie plate, stack of pie plates

Need a gift idea? 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 19)

2011-10-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

Do you ever want an extra special gift for an extra special person? Today I want to share with you one of my favorite gifts for my extra special person. This gift could be introduced by Julie Andrews singing . . . These are a few of my favorite things.

A gift basket full of my current favorite things!

my favorite mechanical pencil

(up & up brand at Target)

my favorite index cards

(up & up spiral-bound index cards, Target)

my favorite pen

(sharpie, Target)

my favorite organic spices

(archer farms, Target)

my favorite fall tissue box

(you guessed it, Target)

my favorite magnet

(curly girl designs)

my current favorite reads

(A Common Life by Jan Karon)

(Savvy Chic: The Art of More for Less by Anna Johnson)

(one thousand gifts by Ann Voskamp)

(Grace for the Good Girl by emily p. freeman)

(The Intimate Mystery by Dan Allender and Tremper Longman)

I made a favorites basket for my sister Sue on her birthday a couple of years ago. That basket had my favorite cleaning supply, garden gloves, cd, and soap.

Tomorrow I will be sharing a gift idea I have used 40 - 50 times. It is super easy, super cheap and always well received. See you then.

What would you include in your favorites basket?

Two winners and a new giveaway for American Girl fans. 31 days of Christmas wonder (day 17)

2011-10-18T01:56:00.000-07:00

We have two winners of . . . The Wonder of it all card by artist, Kate Brand. (suitable for framing) And the winners are two lovely bloggers . . .

Doris Fahnestruck

dawnbright

Congratulations on a little early Christmas gift. Please e.mail me your addresses. (my husband drew your names)

Now . . . for our second giveaway.

Do you remember this picture? It was taken at the Field Museum this summer when my family was visiting. (mine is the hand with the most freckles)

We also went to a Cubs game and it was American Girl night. And I was able to get a Cubbies uniform for your American Girl (daughter, niece, next door neighbor...)

Cute, eh?

For a chance to win, leave a comment on today's post. I will draw a winner next Tuesday.

On a personal note, I would love your prayers for my dad's wife, Dorothy and my dear friend, Becky, who are both having surgery tomorrow. And my sweet friend, Cathie, who is recovering from surgery. Thanks.

Two ways to prevent selfish kids at Christmas. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 17)

2011-10-17T02:00:00.000-07:00

All kids love Christmas, right? And all kids love presents, which is one of the fun parts of the holidays. (I love buying presents for our daughters.)

As parents, we wanted our girls to love getting presents, but we wanted them to be even more excited about giving presents.

Two ways to prevent selfish kids at Christmas:

1. Since our girls were really little, we spent hours every December making homemade gifts for everyone on their list.

Little fingers, coloring pictures of baby Jesus, gluing pieces of flannel blanket to cover baby Jesus, and adding star stickers to the sky.

Of course the projects got more complicated and fun as they got older. And now those same fingers make homemade quilts etc. (You want to be on Christy and Jenny's gift list.)

My point . . . the girls were more focused and excited about giving gifts to their favorite people, than they were about what they were going to open themselves. (and I just have to say, as adults, they are two of the most generous people I know, and not just at Christmas.)

2. The second way we focused on giving to others was our yearly participation in Operation Christmas Child. What fun we had every year, shopping for things to fill our shoe boxes. And talking about and praying for the child that would receive that fun box.

I am glad that our girls learned the truth of Jesus' words, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
(Acts 20:35)

PS. It is not to late sign up for my giveaway. I will announce the winners tomorrow.

Linking with

image credit: gift, Operation Christmas Child

31 days of craziness. 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 16)

2011-10-16T02:00:00.000-07:00

31 days . . . is a long time. Blogging every day is . . . a little bit crazy. 31 days of Christmas Wonder has not gone exactly how I had pictured it in my head. I was going to be so organized and schedule way ahead each week. This has not happened. But I am having fun. And I hope you are hanging in there with me.

Did you know there are 746 other "31 dayers" writing every day during the months of October? And believe me, there is something for everyone:

how to be more positive

eat your veggies

dress well

become crafty

surrender

sell your home

worship

travel Europe

get organized

nourish your soul

get it together

find joy

make a quilt

get your groove back, and

732 other topics.

Pop over for some great reads. Make sure you do not miss #176, which is Christy's 31 days of Culture Shock.

31 dayers . . . we are half way there. WE CAN DO IT.

See you tomorrow for some more great Christmas thoughts.

Christmas Around the World. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 15)

2011-10-15T02:54:00.000-07:00

Where will YOU be spending Christmas this year?

Mounds Bars. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 14)

2011-10-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Do you have a specialty that you have to make in order for it to feel like Christmas? We do. If I only make one goodie for the holidays . . . it has to be Mounds Bars.

When I was in college, my parents where still in Viet Nam. So I spent summers and Christmas vacation with the Smith family. Shirley was an awesome cook and Mounds Bars is just one of her recipes that I love.

Mounds Bars

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 1/2 cubes of melted butter

1/4 cup powdered sugar

Mix together and press into a 9 X 13" pan. Bake for 10 minutes at 325 degrees.

Mix 7 ounce package of coconut with one can sweetened condensed milk and spread over baked crust.

Bake for 15 more minutes.

Remove from oven and spread with 6 ounce package of chocolate chips and a 6 ounce package of butterscotch chips, that have been melted in a double boiler.

Cool and then place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set the chocolate.

Try them this weekend . . . an early Christmas gift to your family.

image credit:mounds bars

Christmas collections. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 13)

2011-10-13T10:47:00.000-07:00

While I am basically a simple girl at heart, I do enjoy the special things I have collected over the years for my home and holidays. I rarely have a list or a specific idea of what I want . . . I just know it when I see it.

All of our summers of travelling to Europe with Royal Servants (a short term missions experience for students), provided me with many wonderful opportunities to shop in different countries.

my favorite shopping market in Krakow, Poland

Each summer, I shopped with my heart. If I saw something that I loved, I bought it. (if it fit my budget, of course) I did not need to know where it would fit in my house. When I shopped from my heart, I knew it would find a perfect place in my home.

Well, this year my heart has found two things that I want to add to my Christmas collection.

thing one:

I add a new cd to my collection every year . . . and this is it for 2011. The Christmas Waltz has been released already for our enjoyment.

http://soundcloud.com/mergerecords/she-him-the-christmas-waltz

Enjoy.

thing two:

This book, illustrated by one of my favorite bloggers, is on my list, because it incorporates the true meaning of Christmas for children. Read more about this fun book on Sarah's blog. (Sarah has amazing free downloads for kids on her site.)

Enjoy.

What are you adding to your collections this year?

PS. Have you signed up for my giveaway?

image credit: snowmen, krakov market, she and him, a christmas goodnight

One of the Reasons I Love Christmas. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 12)

2011-10-12T02:00:00.000-07:00

Six years ago today, I said goodbye to my adorable mom, Hallie, for the last time. It is a moment one never forgets. Three days earlier, she had received an emergency room diagnosis of cancer. She died suddenly and unexpectedly from the complications of a blood clot.

My husband was on a mission trip in Africa and Jenny was in Chicago at Moody Bible Institute, but Christy and I were able to be there at her bedside, along with many of my family members.

I remember intentionally focusing on what my mom's hands looked like. She had beautiful hands with long slender fingers. She always wore a stunning black star sapphire that my dad had given her.

I remember thinking of all the amazing things those beautiful hands had done over the years . . . creating homes in different countries, creating journals and scrapbooks, creating quilts and homemade cabbage patch dolls for her grandchildren and so much more.

My mom was a bit of a Christmas wonder herself. Even though she grew up in a very difficult home, she created a wonderful home for us. And Christmas was one of her favorite times of the year. Her sewing machine was super busy then.

So one of the reasons I love Christmas is . . . my mom taught me to. Thanks, mom. I love you and I miss you. I look forward to an eternity of Christmas days together in heaven.

A favorite picture of my parents.

PS. If you would like to read more of my mom's story, click on "Remembering Hallie" at the top of my blog.

Linking today:

Mary Engelbreit picture

Kate creates WONDER and a giveaway. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 11)

2011-10-11T00:40:00.000-07:00

One of the questions that I am often asked is, "who created your adorable blog caricature?" Well, the answer is . . . the same person who illustrated my series blog button

and designed, The Wonder of it All,

. . . my dear friend, Kate.

Every year, Kate designs her own Christmas cards. I always look forward to getting one in the mail.

You have met Kate before, and enjoyed her whymsical fun cards.

And now for some good news for all of our Christmas planning . . . Kate has opened a website with zazzle. She is starting with Christmas items first and gradually it will have all her beautiful work.

The Wonder of it All is available in cards, matching postage stamps and ornaments. There are also some beautiful personalized photo cards. There is a discount for buying in bulk, too.

In the spirit of this series, may I recommend . . . . order your Christmas cards early. You will be so glad you did.

And now . . . AN EARLY CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY.

Leave a comment on today's post and I will choose two of you to receive The Wonder of it All. Frame it and it will be a beautiful part of your holiday decorations or share it with a friend.

Say hi to Kate at www.zazzle.com/featherpower.

Linking today to Jen's.

QUIET: 6 ways to find some quiet moments at Christmas. 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 10)

2011-10-10T02:00:00.000-07:00

Six ways to find some quiet moments at Christmas:

1. Enjoy the snow.

2. Enjoy some twinkle lights.

3. Enjoy a good book.

4. Enjoy a good movie.

5. Enjoy some candles.

6. Enjoy some yummy beverages.

Peace on earth, goodwill to man.

What are your favorite ways to find quiet during the month of December?

image credit: snow, lights, reading 1, reading 2, watching tv, candles, beverages 1, beverages 2

QUIET: My favorite way. 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 9)

2011-10-09T02:39:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the month of December can get, well . . . crazy. (we have all been there, right?) And finding some time for sweet quiet will take some intenionality. But oh, it is so worth it.

Today I want to share with you our favorite, simple, and refreshing way to find some quiet every day during the month of December.

A few years ago, Dave and I discovered a Christmas medley that we both loved . . . the kind of music that touches your soul and delights your spirit. Seven sweet minutes of listening together each night, with just the Christmas tree lights on, provides a perfect quiet moment and a lovely shared experience. (most nights we listen to it three or four times . . . itis just too beautiful to stop.)

The Worship Medley . . . oh my, you are in for a treat.
http://new.music.yahoo.com/brooklyn-tabernacle-choir-184840827/tracks/worship-medley-he-came-jesus-the-son-of-god--1989147

Merry Christmas in October.

image credit: fireplace, brooklyn tabernacle choir

QUIET: is it on your to do list? 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 8)

2011-10-08T02:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to day 8 of 31 days of Christmas Wonder. If you are joining us mid-stream, a little review is in order. We have been talking about a Christmas strategy that has the perfect balance of

WORK

QUIET

FUN

When you think of Christmas, it makes sense to think of all the work that is involved. And it is easy to remember some really fun times. But, QUIET . . . is a bit of a surprise.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes on QUIET:

* "To do nothing is the most difficult

thing in the world . . . the most

difficult and the most intellectual."

~ Oscar Wilde

* "Most of man's problems come from

his inability to sit still."

~ Blaise Pascal

* "120 seconds of quiet might change

your day or even your entire life."

~ J Patterson

* "Be still and know that I am God."

~ Psalm 46:10

Picture the month of December with regular times of QUIET. Sounds delicious!

How do you incorporate quiet into your holidays?

(tomorrow, I will share my ways)

image credit: candle

GRIEF: A Decembered Grief. 31 Days of Christmas Wonder (day 7)

2011-10-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

Christmas is a time for family and friends, so experiencing an empty seat at our Christmas table is tough. And for some families the grief is so fresh and real, they wonder about celebrating Christmas, at all.

Do you remember the scene in You've Got Mail where Kathleen Kelly (played by Meg Ryan) is decorating the Christmas tree and says, "I miss my mom so much that I can hardly breath." I can tell from the comments, that some of us are right there this holiday season.

When my friend lost her husband suddenly in a plane accident, she still had young children at home. She recommends A Decembered Grief: Living with Loss while others are Celebrating, by Harold Smith. This book helped her be intentional about what their first Christmas would look like.

I love this passage from the book and I read it every December:

         "After experiencing grief, loss and death, I have come to believe
            in a Christmas that cannot be limited to 24 hours on the 25th
            of December. I have come to believe in a future Christmas
            when all God's children will be home. I have come to believe
            that in our first moments in heaven we will realize how much
            He (Jesus Christ) gave up to spend those years among us,
            to invite us to spend forever with Him. I believe that His
           coming locked this world into a loving embrace and that this
            December season, He will be as close as our grief allows."

Would you join me in praying for family and friends that are experiencing deep loss and grief as we prepare to enter this holiday season?

image credit: book

WORK: just a few ideas. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 6)

2011-10-06T02:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever googled christmas ideas? Oh my . . . you will get 25,000,000 responses. Yes, 25 million.

In this crazy internet world, it is sometimes odd to offer ideas. There are just so many of them floating around out there. (at least I always picture them floating)

So, today I am going to give you five little ideas, not 25 million, just five. These are ideas that I do at my house at Christmastime. Ideas that have worked for me.

Five little Christmas ideas . . . from my house to yours.

1. Freeze a few simple meals ahead for those crazy busy December nights.

2. Book early . . . hair cuts, baby sitters, food trays,
etc. (this will make you very happy later)

3. Use a pretty basket to hold your Christmas cards that come in the mail each day. (still a fan of 'real' mail)
I keep my address book there, too. Each day as I read the new cards, I update changed addresses. If you keep addresses on your computer, just change them quickly before you put the card in the basket.

4. Get the whole family washing their hands often . . . no time for colds or flu in the Christmas season. (buy a pretty Christmas pump soap, if that helps)

5. Stock up now on basic Christmas supplies . . . extra twinkle lights (got three strings of them at Target last week),
scotch tape, candles, stamps etc.

(I wanted to tell you about Kate's adorable cards today, but zazzle had a wee issue. As soon as it is fixed, I will post about them. Can't wait.)

What do you do at your house, to help lighten the December work load?

image credit: google

WORK: Do not be afraid of the word organization. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 5)

2011-10-05T03:43:00.000-07:00

Do you freak out just a little when you hear the word organization or does your heart start beating faster with excitement?

Does Christmas in your brain look like this . . . ?

Or does it look like this . . . ?

Some of us are naturally organized and some of us are not naturally organized. (thank goodness we are not all the same)

Here is the scoop, from my point of view. There are lots of great systems to help us organize our Christmas plans. But you must have the right one . . . one that matches you.

*If you are organized . . . look for a plan that was designed by an organized person.

*If you are not organized . . . look for a plan that was designed by a not organized person.

I have two plans to recommend to you. I have not used either of these myself, but I have friends that recommend them.

PLAN ONE

for the not naturally organized

flylady.net

(click on holiday control calendar)

PLAN TWO

for the naturally organized

OrganizedChristmas.com

Please do not mix these two up, you might go crazy. And there would be no wonder in that.

PS. I love this The Wonder of it all illustration, drawn by my friend, Kate. Come back tomorrow and learn how to order her cards.

image credit: room, list

WORK: 3 B's and a D. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 4)

2011-10-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to day 4 of 31 days of Christmas Wonder. Sorry about the long post titles, but they have a lot to say. (just like me)

Yesterday, I introduced the idea of a Christmas Triangle Offense, ie. a perfect balance of three things:

WORK

QUIET

FUN

The work part of Christmas can stress us out a little. (just look at yesterday's comments) The fun part of beginning to think about Christmas in October is that we have plenty of time to fine-tune our plans. One of the best ways to do this is to apply 3 B's and a D.

(adapted from Real Simple magazine)

1. The first B is BAG IT. The easiest way to make your to do list manageable is to make your list shorter.

Evaluate your year, your energy level, the stage your family is in and what everyone wants to do and BAG some things on your list.

*We decided not to buy presents for our large

extended family of 35 and began drawing

names. Ah . . . shorter list.

*Maybe everyone in your family is really tired

of making a complicated gingerbread house.

So, do not do it this year. Ah . . . shorter list.

2. The second B is BARTER IT. Trade someone a job you hate for a job you love.

*If you have a friend who loves to wrap

presents, wrap her presents and barter

for a job you hate.

*Babysit for a friend, who will then come

and clean your house.

3. The third B is BETTER IT. Think of ways to simplify or better the things you want to do.

*Instead of standing in long lines at the post

office, order online at usps.com.

*Decorate Pillsbury slice and bake cookies

rather than make homemade cutout cookies.

(ask my friend, Heidi, whose kids had fun when mom was not

not exhausted)

4. The D stand for DELEGATE. I know, we all want to be the Christmas fairy-god-mother, but we will be happier if we do not try to do everything ourselves. I am a big fan of delegating.

*Divide the Christmas tasks among all your

family members. (even a two year old can help set the

Christmas table) Let house guests help, too.

*Order desserts from a favorite bakery.

So, I have just given you a few ideas to get you started.

What is something you would like to BAG, BETTER, BARTER or DELEGATE? (I would love it if you shared your ideas in the comments, so we can all learn from each other.)

christmas list

BALANCE: with a little help from Coach Phil Jackson (really!). 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 3)

2011-10-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

I have a question for you. What are the first three words that come to your mind when you think of preparing for Christmas?

word one __________

word two __________

word three __________

We all want words like

peace

joy

fun

but if we are honest with ourselves the first words that come to mind may be

stress

debt

exhaustion.

I recently read a great strategy from the world of sports - basketball, to be exact. You might wonder what advice retired LA Lakers' Coach, Phil Jackson, could offer busy women looking for Christmas wonder.

Coach Jackson recommends the perfect balance of three things in his LEADERS TRIANGLE OFFENSE.

And I propose to you, that the perfect month of December, the perfect Christmas season needs these three things to maintain balance. (Our very own Christmas triangle offense.)

ARE YOU CURIOUS?

Here they are . . .

WORK

QUIET

FUN

Come back tomorrow and we will talk about WORK. (it will be fun)

image: presents, basketball

Linking today to:

CREATE MEMORIES: they cannot be stolen from you. 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 2)

2011-10-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

My heart was pounding as we drove up to our storage unit. I had no idea what we would find when we rolled up that heavy steel door. We had just received an e.mail . . .

          "Thirty five of our storage units have been
          broken into, and your unit is one of them.
          Come immediately."

We had sold our home and moved into our tiny adorable rental on Lake Washington. We put 80% of our stuff into storage.

My mind was whirling with mental lists of what was in the storage unit, and I prayed, "Lord, give me grace for whatever we find. (and please let our photographs and Christmas decorations still be there)

Well . . . my Christmas boxes where mostly gone. (stolen) A few bits and pieces had been scattered around . . . and I cherished each piece I found. Imagine my joy, when I found one Christmas box untouched . . . our families ornament collection from around the world.

I shed some tears, especially over the loss of a quilted tree skirt and tea tray that my mom had made. (My adorable mom, Hallie, died of cancer a few years ago.)

So what does all of this have to do with 31 days of Christmas wonder . . . just a simple thought as you think about your Christmas celebration this year.

CREATE MEMORIES . . . they cannot be stolen from you. Even when I lost cherished things . . . we still had our memories.

Christmas memories are for everyone . . . single, married, with children, no children, empty nesters etc. Have fun and create lots of memories.

What is one of your favorite Christmas memories?

image credit

TRADITIONS: Kick the month of December off with a SIMPLE and FUN tradition (and end up with a lovely collection). 31 days of Christmas Wonder (day 1)

2011-10-01T05:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my series, 31 days of Christmas wonder, a month of simple ideas for you and your family. Some ideas will be practical and some a bit more philosophical. But all with the same goal . . . WONDER.

Traditions have always been important to me. Perhaps this is because I had a very nontraditional childhood.

I grew up as an MK (missionary's kid) in Viet Nam AND it was during the war. (not exactly Mayberry) And because of the war, our school was forced to move to another country for safety reasons. So my siblings and I attended a boarding school. (four months at school in Malaysia, two months home, four months back at school, and another two months at home)

As all smart parents do, our parents put as much structure, routine and tradition into our lives to help compensate for the chaos.

Our kids also had an unusual childhood. (every summer,we lived in a tent in Europe travelling with 35 - 90 high school students) And like my parents, I also practiced lots of traditions with them.

Noel Piper, in her book Treasuring God in our Traditions," defines tradition as "a planned habit with structure."

Most traditions do require a bit of planning, but then it becomes easy. You just do it again . . . the next year . . . the year after that . . . and again the next year, and
bingo, a tradition in born.

Christmas lends itself quite easily to wonderful and simple traditions. (or for that matter, complicated traditions if that is what your family loves.) One of our favorite Christmas traditions began the first day of December.

Each year, I purchase one book for our family collection of Christmas books. I wrap it and we open it together on December 1st. We read it and add it to our Christmas book basket.

Of course, the early years it was books like Amelia Bedelia's Christmas or The Austen Family Christmas. But as the girls grew the books changed to Christmas in the White House or Charles Dickens' A Christmas Story.

Just one book each year . . . so fun . . . so easy. I highly recommend to you our first day of December tradition. (and you have two whole months to find the right book for your family)

PS I have my own Christmas book tradition, too. Every December I read Winter Solstice by Rosemund
Pilcher and Shepherd's Abiding by Jan Karon.

Do you have a favorite Christmas book?

image credit

10 Reasons I Love Fall

2011-09-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

Summer

Fall

Winter

Spring

I like all them all . . . but my favorite is FALL.

Ten Reasons I Love FALL.

1. Mums on my back patio.

2. Orange candles.

3. Fresh new mantels.

4. Bringing out the quilts.

5. Autumnal welcomes.

6. Front door decorations.

7. Beautiful plates.

8. Garlands and lights.

9. Pumpkins of all sizes.

10. Trays that reflect the season.

I could probably think of ten more reasons, because I have not even mentioned fall magazines, fall food etc.

HAPPY FALL, FRIENDS.

Linking up to my friend Sarah, at Modern Country Style

IDEAS . . . friend or foe?

2011-09-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

Ideas give me energy. Ideas make me more creative.
Ideas make me happy.

But I have learned that everyone is not like me. (really?) For some of my friends, too many ideas make them tired, nervous and overwhelmed.

When I speak I usually give many ideas. I am sure that this does not surprise you, as I also am an idea-girl on my blog. (50 things to do while we await spring, yup 50) It is just the way God made me.

As I began to pay attention when I was speaking, I noticed:

*half of my crowd got energized and sat up straighter. This group wanted to go home and try all my ideas the next day.

*half of the crowd slumped down in their seats. This group wanted to go home and forget they ever met me.

Which group is right? Neither.

Both groups need to do the same thing when they hear new ideas. Choose just one or two ideas and begin there.

My new series, 31 days of Christmas wonder, is going to be full of, you guessed it, ideas. They have taken me 58 years to collect. Take your time . . . choose a few and have fun!

PS. You have my permission as you read my ideas to:

1. Take an idea just as it is and run with it. Enjoy it fully and have fun.

2. Adapt the idea to meet the needs of your family and
have fun.

3. Say "this idea is NOT for me." Toss it in the mental trash can . . . with no guilt and have fun.

How do you feel about ideas?

idea image credit

31 Day of Chrstmas Wonder or Christmas in October

2011-09-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Last year, a few of my favorite bloggers came together for a 31 days of blogging series.

I did not get to read them all, as October was my month to pack and prepare for our move to Chicago. We left Seattle on October 31. (Can you believe it . . . almost a year already?) Whenever I needed a break from the craziness of moving . . . I popped over for a few moments of inspiration.

This year, the lovely Dayspring bloggers have invited us to join them. And, I knew right away what I wanted to spend 31 one days exploring.

Yes, 31 days of Christmas wonder.

My desk is piled with folders of ideas, MOPS talks, magazines and books. I am having fun. (so far) I have never posted for 31 days straight. (yikes) Can I do it? (yes) Will you join me? (please say yes)

Please do not get freaked out that it is only October and we are talking about Christmas. (I hate seeing Christmas things in the stores already.)

This is different. This is better. This is milling and thinking and praying and puttering around a bunch of great Christmas thoughts and ideas. By the time December rolls around . . . we will have a bit of a plan and Christmas will be purposeful and joyful. Are you in?

Good. Look forward to some fun giveaways, free downloads and lots of easy, practical ideas. See you back here on October 1st.

P.S. I am curious - do ideas motivate you or overwhelm you? Come back tomorrow for a perfect solution . . . either way!

Coffee Lovers' Coffee Cake

2011-09-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday mornings have been pretty special around here. A group of lovely women are joining me each week to study Ann Voskamp's book 1,000 Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are.

It is fun for me to prepare a little treat for these girls, who have been out in the workplace all week.

Baking is something I really enjoy, but I do not do it as much these days . . . since there are only two of us to eat the goodies. So now, for the next six week, I have a great reason to dig through my cookbooks for some old favorites.

Coffee Lovers' Coffee Cake

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons instant coffee granules

2 cups brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon (I like Penzey's Vietnamese Cinnamon)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cups butter, cut in pieces

8 ounces of sour cream

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 egg

3/4 cups chopped pecan or walnuts

Combine flour, coffee, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Cut in butter with pastry blender until crumbly. Press half of this mixture into a 9" square pan.

Mix soda into sour cream and add to remaining crumb mixture. Add egg. Stir gently. Pour over crumb mix. Top with nuts.

Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

This is a nice change from the streusel topped coffee cakes, (which I also enjoy making) , because the surprise on this cake is the coffee flavored shortbread crust on the bottom.

We found the cake and the book . . . both delicious.

Linking today to my coffee loving sisters at Jen's place.

Sue . . . on remission. Firm Chicks (part 5)

2011-09-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, big-sister brag time. I told you that you would enjoy Sue . . . she is funny, sweet, godly, pretty, courageous, honest and fun. I am very blessed in the sister department. I have two great sisters and six wonderful sisters.in law. I love them all.

So, I am a little sad that this is the last of this series. Thanks so much, Sue, for sharing some of your cancer story with us. Here is part five.

Sue . . . on remission.

After four months of chemotherapy I was declared “in remission”. I went through two years of maintenance treatment which is supposed to help me stay in remission longer . . .hopefully long enough for a cure to be found. (That is my prayer.)

When I completed my treatment regimen and was declared “in remission” it was easy to dwell on thoughts like “when will it come back?” or “what will we do next to fight it?” or even “will I eventually die from this?” I prayed and asked God to help me leave those questions with Him. I asked God to help me not to waste these great days worrying about what was going to happen to me down the road.

And then the thought came to me . . . You know, I am no different now than I was before I was diagnosed. My days are no less numbered now than they were before I had cancer. I did not know what my future held back then . . . and I do not know what my future holds now.

But what I do know is this:

Proverbs 19:21 says “Many are the plans in a man’s (or woman’s) heart, But it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails."

Psalm 121:1-2 says "I raise my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth."

And Deuteronomy 31:6 says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified . . . for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you or forsake you.

So when all is said and done - that is enough for me. God has brought me this far and He is going to take me the rest of the way.

I WILL trust the Lord! He IS trustworthy.

P.S. Thank you for reading my 5 part series. (Thank you, Glenda, for asking me to do it.) I enjoyed reading your comments and was grateful that my experience encouraged some of you. It makes my cancer experience seem to have purpose.

Linkin today with Shanda.