Creamy Apple Pie Green Smoothie

1 Fiji Apple (peel, core, cut up add 1/2 cup water and cooked until tender)
1/4 cup Vanilla Yogurt (I used Dannon Lite)
1 TBS crushed Pecans
1/4 tsp Cinnamon
2 cups fresh Spinach
2 cups Water

I cooked the apple then cooled in the refrig for several hours.
Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
Enjoy

Calories 208g
Fat 8.1g
Chol -0-
Sodium 76g
Carbs 31.7g
Fiber 7.1g
Sugar 22.3
Protien 6.2g

BENEFITS:
Apple -
Strengthens bones, protects from osteoporosis; reduces symptoms of Asthma; Lowers cholesterol; shown to help prevent several types of cancer; diabetes management; helps with weight loss - many other benefits.  As I always say this is what I have learned from on line research and make no health claims regarding any of the benefits in this post.

Yogurt -
Adds healthy bacteria to your digestive tract (be sure it says live cultures on the yogurt container); helps to prevent osteoporosis; helps to lower risk of high blood pressure.

Pecans -
Most anti-oxidants (protects against cell damage in your body) of all nuts; good fat; boosts your immune system (your body's ability to fight off disease); reduces cholesterol levels; lowers blood pressure.

Cinnamon -
Regulates blood sugar levels; lowers cholesteral; resists yeast infections, arthritis relief.

Spinach -
High in fiber, maintains blood sugar levels, anti-inflammation, osteoporosis help; controls blood pressure, vision assistance, immune system help; healthy skin and helps maintain a healthy nervous system.

Plum-D-Licious Green Smoothie

PLUM-D-LICIOUS GREEN SMOOTHIE
1 1/2 cups water
4 Plums (remove pits and cut in pieces)
1 Banana
1 cup packed fresh Spinach or two lose handfuls
1/2 tsp ground Ginger
add stevia to taste (I use liquid stevia)

Put all in blender and blend until smooth - enjoy!

Calories - 236g
Fat - 1.3g
Sodium - 25g
Carbs - 58.8g
Fiber - 7.5g
Sugar 40.8g
Protien - 4.1g

BENEFITS:
Plums -
helps regulate digestive system; natural anti-oxident; helps resist infectious agents; counters inflammation; helps maintain healthy mucus membrane and skin; helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers; helps to control heart rate and blood pressure; helps body metabolize carbs, proteins and fats; helps with blood clotting; helps reduce Alzheimer in the elderly.
(These are all claims I found on line through a variety of sources. I do not make any claims, just love to pass on the possible benefits I find. This is true of all the other ingredients and benefits listed below.)

Bananas -
helps reduce depression; anemia support; normal bowl functions; eye sight protection; healthy bones and kidneys; blood pressure control; heartburn relief; morning sickness and ulcer help; regulates nerves and body water blance; stroke risk reduction.

Spinach -
High in fiber, maintains blood sugar levels, anti-inflammation, osteoporosis help; controls blood pressure, vision assistance, immune system help; healthy skin and helps maintain a healthy nervous system.

Ginger -
helps with cancer symptoms, relieves morning and motion sickness, assists with pain relief and inflammation control, heart burn relief; cold and flu prevention and migraine relief.

Baby Boy's Baby Seal Blanket

I have decided to try my hand at creating my own pattern for a baby blanket.  Living in Seal Rock what else would I create ...  so far I just have 2 panels done.  The finished blanket will be approx. 32"x32".
I will post the finished product when done!

First two panels

Close up of baby seal panel

Baby Girl Blanket

Baby Girl Blanket

Lined with soft pink flannel 32" x 32"

Ready for my next great great niece!

Healthy Homemade Condiments

Tomatoes – yep. Vinegar – seems fine. Sugar – wait, what? Even ketchup isn’t safe from the wrath of sugar.
Think you have to ditch the bottle – the condiment bottle that is – in order to avoid these hidden sugars? Not a chance, especially if you have the baseline kitchen skills necessary to whip up some of these homemade alternatives. Read on for simple Primal recipes for ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, barbeque sauce and almond butter. Enjoy!

Ketchup

There’s no need to give up ketchup if you can opt for this sugar-free (but no less delicious) 3-minute variety.
6 ounces tomato paste
2/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup water
2 tbsp of your preferred sugar substitute (optional)
2 tbsp onions
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground allspice
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1/8 tsp pepper
Combine ingredients in food processor and blend until the onion disappears. Spoon mixture into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

Mayonnaise

If using raw eggs in mayonnaise makes you nervous, try this recipe, which not only dramatically reduces the sugar content but also partially cooks the eggs!
2 large egg yolks
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp water
1 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp salt
1 cup pure olive oil
Heat the egg yolks, lemon juice, water, and sugar in a small skillet over very low heat, stirring constantly. At the first sign of thickness, remove from heat and submerge in a large pan of cold water (you should continue stirring here to avoid creating citrus-y scrambled eggs…trust us!) Scoop mixture out of pan and into a food processor. Blend for a few seconds and then let mixture sit uncovered for at least 5 minutes to cool. Add remaining dry ingredients, and blend on low speed. Drizzle oil slowly into the mixture until all ingredients are combined. Scoop into a large glass container and chill immediately. Mayonaise should keep for at least one week if stored correctly.

Mustard

Ahhh…mustard. Another childhood favorite. But did you know many varieties contain a hefty dose of brown sugar? Cut the carbs – and synthesize the taste – by following this spicy mustard recipe
1/4 cup white or brown mustard seeds
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup dry red wine
1/2 cup dry mustard
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground allspice
2 tbsp cold water
Place mustard seeds, wine vinegar and wine in a small bowl and let sit for 3 hours. Pour the contents of the bowl and the water into a food processor with a steel blade. Blend until seeds are broken up and then add the dry mustard, salt, allspice, and water, and process until smooth. Scoop into glass container and refrigerate 12 hours before serving.

Faux Honey Mustard

This is perhaps one of the most delicious (and kid-friendly) ways to sweeten the appeal of a chicken dish!
1 cup mayonnaise (extra credit if you use your own homemade version!)
1/3 cup mustard (again, there’s no harm in using your own!)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 packet sugar substitute or a bit of honey
Combine all ingredients in bowl and mix thoroughly. To store, refrigerate in airtight container.

Barbeque Sauce

Ever wonder what makes barbeque sauce so delicious? Perhaps it’s the 30 grams of sugar per 1/4 cup serving? Don’t want to give up this comfort food favorite? Then try this innovative recipe, which uses diet soda in place of the sugar!
2 strips of thick bacon, chopped fine or 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, or chipotle powder to taste (this gives the sauce its smoky flavor, so using either the bacon or the spices is fine!)
1 small onion (minced)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 6oz can tomato paste
1 tsp liquid smoke
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup ketchup (again, use your homemade version!)
3 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch ground cloves
1 pinch cinnamon
Hot sauce to taste (any variety is fine!)
If using bacon, fry in a 2-qt pan (no oil) until cooked through. Add the onion and cook over a medium heat for 3-5 minutes (or until onion browns). Add in garlic and cook for a minute, then mix in all other ingredients and simmer for about 30 minutes. Test the mixture and add other spices, more vinegar or hot sauce until you achieve the desired taste. To store, scoop into a large plastic container and keep refrigerated.

Almond Butter

Looking for a peanut butter alternative? Try this almond butter recipe – its quick, easy, and super nutritious!
3 lbs raw, unsalted almonds
Spread almonds on cookie sheets and toast in a 350 degree F. oven for about 10-15 minutes, stirring them around occasionally to ensure that they are toasting evenly. Let cool for 30-45 minutes. In a food processor, add handfuls of almonds at a time through the shoot opening and blend on high. Periodically open blender and scrape down sides to make sure that mixture is blending evenly. If you prefer a chunkier almond butter, save a handful for the end and then add in while pulsing food processor to attain desired consistency.
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/alternative-healthy-condiment-recipes/#axzz1rStuPm9Z

EASY HOMEMADE CLEANER

EASY FRESH CLEANER
Orange peels, vinegar in a quart jar,
let sit for 10 days or so...strain out the
liquid and use as an all-purpose cleaner.
Easy, cheap, natural, smells good!

Fun plant starters

What a great way to start your plants.  Then just plant the entire egg shell
and it will feed your plant! 
Sharing from Homestead Survival!

Crocheting baby quilts

I am having so much fun making baby quilts for all the new babies in our family!  When done I will post the entire quilt!  Life is good when I surrender it to my God!  So thankful that He is allowing me the talent to make these heirloom quilts for precious babies!

January 16, 2012

We have had hail and snow!  It has not disappeared today and more is coming down.  Good day to stay safe and cozy in the house ... but NO, my husband insisted on going for a ride!  Grrrrr ... at least he has his cell phone and is to call me every stop he makes!  Praying one of those is not from a ditch.  I told him to have the tow truck bring him home if that is where he lands.  After prodding, he at least took his cane to help him stay steady on the ice.  What a GUY he is.  He just left and it is snowing big flakes right now!  Lord what am I to do???

 

Our life this week:

We go to the Urologist on thursday, providing we can get there in this weather.  I see that it might just turn to rain and hoping that is the case.

This morning we read the last chapter of 1 Thessalonians.  If we put on the breastplate of faith, which we get from staying in the word; love, which we learn from studying the life of our Lord; the helmet of hope, hope that He comes soon and salvation, which we are so privileged to have, we will constantly live in the hope that the Lord is coming soon!  Lord come soon!  I am so anxious for that day.  We will have no more fear, pain, worries - gosh new bodies!  ... and the joy of praising the Lord all day long! 

 

Bible Study:
My new bible study with Cathie Laurie called *Pursuing God* is taking me through the Psalms! Lesson 3 was Psalms 23, one I have known by heart for probably 50 years.  It is also one of my favorites.
Here is my summary:
This Psalms just fills me with the joy in knowing that I am one of His sheep.  That He is my shepard.   I have no fears, no wants for he fills me totally (If I just let him).  Just as a Shepard He calls me by name - HE KNOWS ME!  He gave up His life for me, just like a shepard would do for his flock and in doing so He gives me eternal life. 

As the good Shepard - He will provide for me; guide me; comfort me, nurture me; protect and care for me!  Not just a little but with abundance, rest, protection, restoration, keeping on the right path if I try to stray.  My Shepard goes above and beyond to protect me as I face moments of great need and peril. 
I know that God is always at work for the good of me because I love Him.  I am sure that nothing can separate me from God's love!

The rod of the shepard is used to mark his sheep so he will know them, used to guide them and protect them.  The staff having a *hook* on the end is used to pull me back when I try to run off a cliff or stray off on the wrong path. 

The traits of a sheep fit me soooooo well!  They are weak of back so they can not carry burdens well.  They are stupid; clueless; go astray or wander off the path; defenseless; get rattled and skittish; they will stay in a meadow they have already eaten and one that has no nourishment when there is a green field right next door ... they need guidance.
OH I am such a sheep!

Verse of the day:

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Psalm 23:5

My Pearl of the Day:
I am reminded that when I come to the Lord's Table, I am refreshed.  When Satan is condemning me, when I am aware of my own failures, shortcomings and sins - I come to the Table of the Lord and remember once again that the blood of Jesus cleanses me and my sin is washed away totally and completely.


Picture of the day

If you look closely you can see the little balls of hail falling.  Actually looks like they are falling up.  This was taken off our back deck yesterday afternoon.

January 15, 2012

The wind is blowing and it has rained most of the day.  Sounds and looks like the storm they talked about is on its way.  Praying that the coastal range will be dry or at least just rainy wet when we drive over it on Thursday!  I am such a white-knuckle driver in wintery weather!

Our life this week:

Since is a blustery winter day, I am glad to stay home cozy and warm.  Dick went to the park to watch the waves.  I am so thankful that he turned his drinking addiction over to the Lord and we are on our way into year two of no alcohol!!!   Thank you Jesus.

Last Sunday was our 7th year anniversary.  It has been an interesting and wonderful journey.  Last year of course almost losing Dick twice has kept me on my toes.  We are both so happy and content, even though we wish it were different and that health was not an issue. 

This morning we finished 1 Thessalonians chapter 3.  Reminds us not to get too *comfy* in our walk with the Lord.  We are to continue to seek, grow and learn!  That seems pretty easy for me, since I do not feel I can ever get enough of the Word.  Each time I read the same verse or chapter something new pierces my heart and I am once again overwhelmed and feel like my cup runneth over again and again.

Bible Study:
My new bible study with Cathie Laurie called *Pursuing God* is taking me through the Psalms!  Lesson 1 was Psalms 25, Lesson 2 was Psalms 96.  I finished that one last night.  It did not *sing* out to me as much as Lesson 1, but I know I am pursuing God and that is my intention.

Here is my summary:

This lesson shows me the importance of singing praises to the Lord and what an honor it is I have to be able to do that.

To sing to the Lord in thankfullness of the blessings he bestows upon me (including my salvation).

To sing is the opportunity to proclaim the Good News of Salvation.

To sing in declaration of His Glory.

God is so great!  Wow to think He made the Heavens.

What a privilege to sing to him praises for His honor, majesty, strength and beauty.

He alone is worth of my songs of praise.  He is coming soon to judge the eath with

righteousness and with His truth!

Verse of the day:

For He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth.  He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with His truth.  Psalm 96:13

My Pearl of the Day:
Once again, I think it is just cotton candy sweet to know that God chose me.  That I remain eager to learn and be used.  I am just needing to declare my love for God!


Picture of the day

Today Lisa is taking Dani out for *sister day*.  It was Lisa's Christmas present to Dani.  Brunch, movie, snacks .... just a day together.  I love my family so much and am so proud of these two nieces!  Lord, I pray you just bring them joy today as they make memories!

January 13, 2012

The sun is shining and it is a beautiful wintery day.  Just got home from my weekly shopping trip and Dick has gone out for a ride and to the park to watch the ocean.
Our life this week:
Dick is having trouble sleeping.  I think it the stress of not knowing what the results will be from the CT Urogram he had yesterday.  We both pray and try to live the life of trusting and believing that our path is exactly what the Lord has planned for us.  I guess it is just that human trait to hang on and worry.  I don't sleep well either.   I sleep so lightly listening for any problems Dick might have.

Our reading this morning from 1 Thessalonians 3 actually was what we needed to hear - Praise God for His wisdom to have us at these verses this morning!  It talked about the fiery trials we must face and that we must face them with joy.  They don't make or break us, they show what is inside us.  I like that!  In the past, I have found myself reading the bible and thinking that so and so should read this, it is definitely for them.  This year I am reading it with ME in mind only.  I have not been the least bit afraid of the results we will hear on Thursday.  I guess for me it is a joy that I face these trials.  It was interesting that Jon C. pointed out that sometimes the trials are to show what inside of you ... like anger.  If you are angry with someone ... it is not that you are really angry with that person ... the anger is just there inside of you.  The Lord may give you a test to show you the anger in you.  If you are walking with Him you will learn this .... He has such amazing ways of showing you those things.


Bible Study:
My new bible study with Cathie Laurie called *Pursuing God* is heart warming!  I finished lesson 1 which is based on Psalm 25.  

Here is my summary:
The study is helping me to listen to the Lord, live the lessons I learn from His Word.  I will give attention with intention to obey what He is saying to me.

Show me your ways! Teach me your paths!  Lead me in Your truths!

My help only comes from God.  I can only trust God's character.  God will deliver me.

God is merciful, loving, kind, everlasting, trustworthy, forgiving, the refresher of my soul, my leader, my teacher, committed to me, good, upright, my savior, a promise keeper, my friend, the one who chose me, the planner of my path.


Verse of the day:
My eyes are ever toward the Lord for He shall pluck my feet out of the net.
Psalm 25:15

My Pearl of the Day:
God never tires.  He is there with me every second of every day for everything!  The reality of that takes me to my knees.  He is committed to me.  He chose me. 
I read somewhere and I think it might have come from DL Moody and went something like this:
I am glad God chose me before I was born, if I had lived for awhile I am sure I would not have been His choice.


Picture of the day
With my care for Dick, I have had to stay pretty close to him, thus inactive and have gained
all the weight I lost before ... so now I am taking just 15 minute walks and watching what I eat, so ...

Not really!   I just thought this was so cute!
Praying you all have a wonderful day safe in the arms of our Lord!

January 12, 2012

January 12, 2012

Where did the time go?  I was going to be so faithful to my blogging and it has been almost a month.  I am going to use a new format and hope you will enjoy.  To be honest it is more for me, my daily life with my precious husband and my walk with the Lord!

Our life this week:
Mornings are my favorite time with Dick.  We go through our regular routines, then set aside time to read the bible and pray together.  There are times when I think of those moments and my heart swells like a hot air balloon! 
We were so impressed with the book of Colossians and the lessons we learned we hated to leave that book, but felt the nudge to go on to 1 Thessalonians.  We are in chapter 2 now.  Dick sits with his eyes closed as I read until he wants to inject a comment!  I love our discussion times and how we can put into practice the lessons the Lord gives us from His word. 

Yesterday, we went to Corvallis for Dick's CT Urogram.  The weather held out and we had a sunny drive with just a bit of frost on the road.  Dick said that yesterday was one of the worse days of his life.  He had to lay flat on his back for almost an hour as they took frame after frame of xrays.  He was hurting so bad that he finally yelled out for help.  If you know Dick, that took some time.  They then placed a pillow under his hip/back and it helped somewhat.  However, by that time he was in so much pain.  We came home had dinner right away and Dick was off to bed.  Now we wait for the results until next week.  We pray that it is just infection related and not cancer.  The Lord's will is what we have prayed for and we know that no matter what the results show, we can handle our path as the Lord lays it out for us.

I have crocheted a baby blanket for Lia and Burt and just can't wait for my brand new great nephew.  This is going to be such an amazing year of events in our family, weddings, births, graduations and reunions!  Thanking God for my precious family.

Bible Study:
I am just starting my new bible study with Cathie Laurie called *Pursuing God*.  Her studies have been so amazing and I am looking forward to this one too.  Thanking God for Cathie!!!

Verse of the day:
For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of man, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. 1 Thessalonians 2:13

My Pearl of the Day:
God's written Word and the Living Word, Jesus are my truth, my light and my bread!
I have been so thankful for those truths.  God does not have a rear view mirror, He does not look back at any of my sin.  He does not store them up on a shelf to bring them down when I mess up again!  He says that, I believe that He is my truth, my light and my bread!!!

Picture of the day

The man I love at the cabin on the lake in Florence.
I am so proud of Dick.  He has been sober for over
a year now with the help of the Lord it has not been
the struggle it was in the past for him.  Praising God!