"Perfume and incense bring bring joy to the heart".~~Proverbs 27:9

Chicken Spectacular

1 chicken, cooked and cubed
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can french-style green beans, drained
1 small can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
3/4 cup miracle whip light or your choice
1 onion chopped (if you like onions, I do not)
1 or 2 cups grated cheese, I would use cheddar
1 box Uncle Bens Long Grain Wild Rice original recipe

Cooked rice as directed on box, only add chopped onion if you choose onions. Mix all ingredients together except cheese. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cover with cheese. Return to oven until cheese is melted. This would be nice with a salad. Enjoy!

The Symphony

I love the symphony..........London Symphony Orchestra is one of my favorites and yet I love them all. I have had a winter cd of the London Symphony Orchestra for several years now called Snowflake Serenade. I have some favorites on this cd and I can also say that I don't love all the songs in the symphony. When I purchased my new cd I would press each music piece and see if I liked the music........there were three that I just did not like the opening so I never played them again and I did not listen to the whole piece. Tonight, I listened to two of them......I am tired of the ones I play all the time so I decided to take the time to really listen to the two I have never heard.........can you believe that I love them and I listened to the third one and I love it also. The music is titled: Solstice, Saturday Snow and Amanda's Song. How beautiful they are. Now I have discovered three new masterful pieces of music and I can continue to enjoy them.

Such is life.......instead of really getting to learn the unknown or discover something new, it is easy to stay in the same routine. As for JESUS, he is always with us to share and talk with us. Maybe the topic we should read in the Holy Bible is not something we think we will like.......but when we read the whole chapter we realize we have been missing the MASTERPIECES in God's word. I hope you will take time to learn new scripture and read chapters and books you have never taken the time to read and you will learn that you have gained something really wonderful that has always been there for you.......you just have to peek inside and take the time to really read the whole story or chapter in the Holy Bible. I just bet you will fall in love with that scripture or chapter the way I do and just like the music I discovered.....God is always with us and loves us so much and the great I AM wants to be in our lives all the time. Now go read the word and see what JESUS is wanting you to know.

"Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven't half the strength you think they have."~~Norman Vincent

"Be as a bird perched on a frail branch that feels bending beneath her, still she sings away all the same, knowing she has wings."

One Day At A Time

We always hear to take one day at a time. Here are some scriptures that are about "taking one day at a time" that I want to share with you.

Proverbs 27:1
John 16:33
Matthew 6:19 6:33
I Corinthians 12:26
I Peter 5:7

When you feel rushed, remember satan pushes, GOD LEADS! Take a deep breath when you become overloaded and ask JESUS to carry the load for you.....he will. Now Rest in the Lord.........he loves you so much and he carries your burdens.

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!".~~I John 3:1

Spicy Cheddar Cornbread

Makes 6-8 servings from Sargento

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (I guess you could use other oils)
2 (6.5 ounce) packages cornbread mix, Martha White
2 (1 ounce) packages taco seasoning mix
2 large eggs
2/3 cup water
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9-inch skillet with vegetable oil. Place skillet in oven during preheating.

In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, taco seasoning, eggs, and water, stirring well. Pour batter into preheated skillet. Bake for 12 minutes. Sprinkle cornbread evenly with cheese. Return to oven, and bake for 5 minutes longer, or until cornbread is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Consumer Tips

Be sure to call you bank about this statement or any questions........I found out that when you use a debt card, federal law also does not give you the right to stop payment. You must resolve the problem with the seller. Also check with you bank about the debt card in case its lost or stolen. Credit cards have a $50 cap but debt cards can be much higher. If you report a debt card missing before its used, you are not responsible for any unathorized withdrawals but check with your bank.

Recalls~~ http://www.recalls.gov/ ~~ http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/ ~~ http://www.nhsta.gov/

Choose a safe vehicle~~ www.nhtsa.dot.gov

Buying a used car~~ www.nadaguides.com ~~ www.kbb.com

Medical websites~~ www.mayoclinic.com ~~ www.intelihealth.com ~~ www.mlanet.org

HUD approved housing counseling~~1-800-569-4287

Taken from the Consumer Action Handbook.......visit www.consumeraction.gov
Ask for a book.......I think they send one free. I can't remember.

JESUS Is My Valentine

If you are single this Saturday on Valentines Day....don't get discouraged....JESUS is your Valentine too. He loves us so much. He is always with us in good times and bad. Here are some scriptures for you to read. I will be adding to this the rest of the week and try and finish by Valentine's Day. If not, I will continue on each day through February.

You may not know me, but I know everything about you...Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up...Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways....Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered....Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image....Genesis 1:27
For you are my offspring....Acts 17:28
I chose you when I planned creation....Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book....Psalm 139:15-16
I knit you together in your mother's womb....Psalm 139:13
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love.....I John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you....I John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could....Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect Father....Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand....James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs....Matthew 6:31-33
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore...Psalm 139:17-18
I rejoice over you with singing....Zephaniah 3:17
For you are my treasured possession....Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul.....Jeremiah 32:41
I want to show you great and marvelous things...Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me...Deuteronomy 4:29
For in JESUS, my love for you is revealed...John 17:26
If you receive the gift of my son JESUS, you receive me....I John 2:23

Finding Her Here

I am becoming the woman I've wanted, grey at the temples, soft body, delighted, cracked up by life with a laugh that's known bitter but, past it, got better, knows she's a survivor--that whatever comes, she can outlast it. I am becoming a deep weathered basket.

I am becoming the woman I've longed for, the motherly lover with arms strong and tender, the growing up daughter who blushes surprises. I am becoming full moons and sunrises.

I find her becoming, this woman I've wanted, who knows she'll encompass, who knows she's sufficient, knows where she's going and travels with passion. Who remembers she's precious, but knows she's not scarce--who knows she is plenty, plenty to share.
Jayne Relaford Brown

Our Beautiful Birds

Here are some tips for birds during this cold weather. Make a bird wreath to hang outside and decorate it with your birds favorite foods. George Birds and Blooms

Brush snow and ice off feeders during and after storms to keep the food for your birds.
George Birds and Blooms.

Use an old artificial tree for outside so the birds will have
some cover during a storm. Victoria

Offer suet to birds all winter.

Be sure to have a good bird feeder out at all times for our feathered friends. Victoria

As much as possible try and keep water in your birdbath even during freezing temperatures. George Birds and Blooms.

SUET Recipe
1 cup lard
1 cup crunchy peanut butter
1/3 cup sugar
1 cup whole wheat flour
Cream of Wheat or oatmeal
2 cups cornmeal
{You can use raisins, sunflower seeds with or without shells, dried fruit}
Melt lard and peanut butter. Add other ingredients. Mix well, cut into squares and put into freezer. {This receipe was from Tonja in December/January 2009 Birds and Blooms}

WHO I AM IN CHRIST

I am accepted: I am God's child~~John 1:12
As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ~~John 15:15
I have been justified~~Romans 5:1

I am united with the Lord, and I am one
with HIM in spirit~~1 Corinthians 6:17

I have been bought with a price and
I belong to God~~I Corinthians 6:19-20

I am a member of Christ's body~~1 Corinthians 12:27
I have been chosen by God and adopted
as HIS child~~Ephesians 1:3-8

I have been redeemed and forgiven
of all my sins~~Colossians 1:13-14

I am complete in Christ~~Colossians 2:9-10

I have direct access to the throne of grace
through Jesus Christ~~Hebrews 4:14-16

Bible Birthday Verse

http://www.birthverse.com/mybirthverse.cfm

Instead of

What would JESUS do...........ask yourself WHAT DID JESUS DO! Now go out and help someone.

Thank you JESUS

Our weather was so nice today. I just felt alive today and so blessed.

Blackberry Jam Cake

3/4 cup butter
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 cups sifted flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup Blackberry Jam

Cream butter, add sugar and eggs; beat well. Combine flour, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. Alternating sour cream and combined dry ingredients, add to creamed mixture. Add jam; pour into loaf pan. Bake 350 degrees for 40 minutes {ovens vary so keep a watch}. Remove cake from oven; cool on wire rack. 12 servings. Enjoy~

New Discoveries

Freeze your yogurt.......it is so good like eating ice cream.

To stay warm in bed.......I found that if you place a nice fleece cover the size of your bed on your mattress and then add your fitted sheet........you will be warmer. Since our ice storm...I am looking for ways to survive.

If you have exhausted all efforts to help the people in need.....which means you have given and no one needs the help.......take your blankets or sheets to an animal shelter. The bible tells us to be kind to animals. I pray one day I will get to have a cat where I live.

You can use a funnel to water your plants.........this way.......the water goes one way and not all over the carpet and walls.

Start your own book club and serve tea!

Fish on your hands.......really this works.......use white toothpaste.....now maybe you won't mind getting your hands fishy!

If you are a coffee drinker, even one cup a day.........try the Coffemate Italian Sweet Cream.....it is fabulous and top with whipping cream........look out Starbucks...we don't have to pay your high prices.

Did you know that multi-tasking can raise your blood pressure? Yes it can!

Don't forget to share your plants.........snip off a section and grow roots and pot for your friend. Grow mint in the summer in big pots. This year I am going to do this again.

Years ago when I was given beautiful gowns by a friend.......I stored them away because they were so pretty.....well.......I decided to wear them. They are gone now but what joy I received wearing and sleeping in my beautiful gowns...all natural cotton too. Don't save things just use them........you might as well enjoyed what you have stored away.

I saw a place to learn about discounts: www.retailmenot.com

Buy yourself a nice tea kettle.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
~~~Ephesians 4:2

Couscous

If you are not aware of this fabulous dish.....pick up a box the next time you are at the market. Wonderful for all meat and poultry dishes or alone. Every time I serve I have had great reviews. I use chicken broth rather than water.

Green Beans Sweet and Sour

1 {16 oz.} bag frozen cut green beans
1 cup frozen chopped onion
3 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar

In a large microwave-safe bowl....{I will prepare this on my stove}, combine green beans and onion. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, and microwave on High for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain bean mixture. In a small bowl, whisk brown sugar and vinegar. Pour over green beans, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately.
{Sandra Lee Magazine February 2009~~She has great recipes and much cheaper to subscribe to her magazine than buying on a news stand.}

Bake Potato Night

During this cold winter-time have an evening of loaded baked potatoes. You can use BBQ in your potatoes, veggies, chicken, don't forget the sour cream. The old standby would be chili and cheese. I just never hear the craze on stuffed potatoes. I guess its old hat. You can also add tomatoes and cucumber. Your vegetable potato, try Feta cheese and spices.

Buy Your Own Flowers

If you don't have a love, then be sure to buy your own flowers on February 14.....Walmart will probably sell single roses or even a small mixed bouquet. Try adding spice to the flowers by using these things in your home as your vase.

Salt and pepper shakers can be great for mini flowers.......use in your bathroom or night stand.......look for things in your cabinets to place your flowers in and tie with ribbon. A pretty tea pot full of flowers is a nice idea and invite over a friend for tea........you don't have to be alone on Valentine's Day.......invite a friend over or several people in your church that will also be alone. You can even use a champagne glass or drinking glassware even crystal. You can use glass stones to add color in your new vase ideas.

When You Encounter Hardship

"For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurable great glory that will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For our troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever".~~2 Corinthians 4:17,18........New Living Translation

Praise JESUS for his love and mercy.......he does keep his hand on the thermostat. He cares for us so much....and remember he has recorded all of our tears. He cares about if we stump our toe or want our bill to be cheaper on electricity.......he cares about everything we do and he never stops thinking about us. I have given that scripture before in my blog.........Please take this time to make a list of every blessing you have been given.......last week, last month and the years past.......as you start writing down all JESUS has protected you from........and all he has given you........you should rejoice to him in praise and worship. He loves you.......more than you will ever understand or more than you will ever be loved and he never........leaves us......THE GREAT I AM is concerned about every second in our lives. Trust JESUS, he will never let you down.

Pick Up Some Rose Art Pencils

These are great to have on hand. I purchased on sale one time the 68 colors at least, at Target for a few dollars and they are wonderul........every color you can imagine. I use them to cross out cancelled checks in my checkbook........a frame was just dropped and chipped and I had the perfect odd color to color in and you can't even see the damage. I use to highlight in my bible and it does not run through the page. You will be amazed with these colored pencils can do. I have also use it on my furniture that was nicked.

Quotes on Love

"Oh, if it be to choose and call thee mine, love, thou art everyday my Valentine."
~~~Thomas Hood

"When love is not madness, it is not love."~~~Pedro Calderon de la Barca

"Many are the stars I see, but in my eye no star like thee."
~~~English saying used on Posey rings.

"Loving is not just looking at each other, it's looking in the same direction."
~~~Antoine de Saint-Exupery, Wind, Sand, and Stars, 1939.

"Trip over love, you can get up. Fall in love and you fall forever."
~~~author unknown

"Anyone can catch your eye, but it takes someone special to catch your heart."

"A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you."

"In melody divine, my heart it beats to rapturous love, I long to call you mine."

"Are we not like two volumes of one book?"~~~Desbordes-Valmore

"I have fallen in love many times.....always with you."

"Without love, the rich and poor live in the same house."

"A man is not where he lives, but where he loves."~~~Latin Proverb

"At the touch of love, everyone becomes a poet."~~~Plato

"True love stories never have endings."~~~Richard Bach

"Nobody has ever measured even poets, how much a heart can hold." ~~~Zelda Fitzgerald
{Of course we know JESUS CAN}

"Love is like dew that falls on both nettles and lilies."~~Swedish proverb

"Love me and the world is mine."~~~David Reed

"Jesus is the greatestlove in life and the greatest refreshment in life."~~~Victoria

"Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired."~~~Robert Frost

"Come live in my heart and pay no rent."~~~Samuel Lover

"The most beautiful view is the one I share with you."

"A friend loveth at all times."~~~Proverbs 17:17

"Friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life."~~~Thomas Jefferson

I LOVE YOU~~~In Different Languages

Danish~~Jeg elsker dig
Dutch~~Ik hou van jou
French~~Je t' aime
Je T' adore
Je Vous Aime
Je Vous adore
Hawaiian~~aloha I'a Au Oe
Hebrew~~Ani ohevet otach {female to female}
for your friends that are girls and to your mom,etc.
Ani ohevet otcha {female to male}

Irish~~taim i' ngra leat
Italian~~ti amo {spouse, relationship
ti voglio bene {friend or relative}

Latin~~Te amo
Polish~~kocham cie
Portguese~~Amo-te

Places With Romantic Cities

Bliss, New York 14024
Loving, NM 88256
Romance, AR 72136
Romeo, MI 48065
Valentine, NE 69201
Valentine, TX 79854
Valentines, VA 23887
{These cities may offer a re-mailing program to send out Valentines}

My favorite place in the past to send Valentines in a re-mailing program is:
PostMaster Re-Mailing
446 East 29th Street
Loveland, CO 80538 TELL THEM TO HAND STAMP YOUR VALENTINES! What a treat for the receiver.

Happy Love Month

I am deleting the thoughts I had on Rick Warren and Ted Haggerty.....I was judging and its not my place. I am sorry to JESUS and to you. The Lord judges not Victoria. I don't know their hearts.