Back To Basics

Cozy Fleece Blanket

2012-02-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

Now that winter is upon us, I love to cuddle up on the couch with a cozy blanket and a great book, and living in North Dakota you can never have enough blankets. So, here is a quick, but very stylish and warm blanket to make.

Items needed:

2 pieces of coordinating fleece fabric - a teen/adult - 2 1/2 yards
- a child (ages 4 on up) - 1 1/2 yards
- an infant - 1 yard
Scissors or a rotary cutter with a mat
Coordinating thread
Straight pins
#5 Embroidery thread in a coordinating color. This is the thickets embroidery thread available in stores
Embroidery Needle or a regular sewing needle with a large eye
Sewing machine

The Process:

First, cut off all the salvage material on the edge of your fabric. Usually each piece of fabric you buy will have a little bit of salvage material on the edge that needs to be removed.

Next, layout your fabric on top of each other; wrong sides together. So, the bright, pretty sides will be facing out. Make sure each piece of fabric is the same size. Some fleece is a little wider than others.

Pin your fleece sides together all the way around. Then take it to your sewing machine and sew a 1/2 inch seam all the way around. Your two pieces of fleece fabric should now be sewn together. This seam will also be your guide for your blanket stitching.

Now we are going to blanket stitch all the way around the edge of the blanket, using our 1/2 inch hem as our guide. Thread your needle with a single strand of the coordinating embroidery thread and knot one end of the thread. If you have never done a blanket stitch before, I recommend practicing on an extra piece of fabric.

Bring your knot to the back side of the fabric so that you are anchoring the thread into the blanket. Next, make a a small "n" with the top of your thread and hold this with your fingers. Loop your thread behind your needle , and then pull the needle through the fabric allowing the edge thread to loop on the edge of the fabric.

Keep doing this all the way around your blanket. You will see little "n's" all the way around the edge of your blanket. When you come to the end of your thread and you need more thread, just knot the two ends of the thread together and keep stitching.

When you come to a corner, just do your best to make it look neat. When you have blanket stitched the whole blanket, tie a knot in your thread on the back side of the blanket.

There you have it! A beautiful fleece blanket.

Extra ideas:

- Use a single piece of fleece. You will still have to cut off the salvage part of the fabric and sew a 1/2 inch seam so you have a guide, but this makes a really nice light blanket to give as a gift or to put in your car.

- This is a great project to teach a little girl.

- You can use two prints of fleece - I like to use a print and a solid, because it is easier for my eyes to see the 1/2 seam guide. But two prints are like having two blankets in one.

- These also make great gifts!

31 Days of Praise-Jar

2011-11-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

As my favorite holiday approaches, I am quite giddy with joy over it. I LOVE THANKSGIVING! It allows me to stop and meditate on ALL that I have to be grateful for; and as Christans, we have more than our fair share in which to be thankful! This is a gift that I made for my Guardian Angel (secret sister). I wanted to give her something different, but yet, a little something that she could have for every day of the month.

Items needed:

A beautiful jar with a lid (I found mine at Macys.)
4 - pieces of 8.5 x 11 scrapbook paper - it looks much nicer if one side has a print on it and the other side is plain
1 piece of plain scrapbook paper (for a tag)
A computer
A printer
Scissors or rotary cutter
31 Days of Praise document (download here)

First, print the attached 31 Days of Praise sheets on your 4 pieces of printed scrapbook paper; make sure that you are printing these on the non-decorative side. There is one slip of paper for each day of the month. Just be sure that if the month that you are giving your gift in does not have 31 days, that you take out slips accordingly.

Cut the slips of paper as evenly as possible.

Fold slips and insert slips into jar.

Make a tag to attach to the jar. I have made a tag for you, which is attached to the 31 Days of Praise Sheets (sheet # 5 & 6). You just have to insert your plain paper to print the outside of the tag (page 5), and then flip your paper over to print the inside of the tag (page 6). I have included an example of a tag that I made for my jar.

There you have it! A 31 Days of Praise Jar! This makes a fabulous gift, and what better way to bring glory and honor to Christ than through our praise. "O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good, because his mercy endureth forever." Psalms 118:1

Reversible Placemats, Napkins, and Napkin Ring Holders

2011-10-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of year and in keeping with the "Autumn Theme", I really needed some placemats for our dining room table, but I was unable to find any that I liked. So, I came up with this quick idea, and I love the fact that they are reversible.

Here is what you will need:

2 yds. of fabric - any kind of coordinating patterns will do

matching thread

sewing maching

scissors & a cutting mat

small fall garland

wire cutters

First, lets make the napkin ring holders. I LOVE napkin ring holders. Some are so cute and unique, but they can also cost as much as $3.00 a piece, so I decided to make my own.

I wanted a 3" diameter circle, so I needed to cut my fall garland in 6" pieces. I purchased my garland in the fall section at Michaels. It cost around $4.00 for 5 feet.

Once, your 6" piece is cut, bring your ends together to form a circle, and wrap your ends around each other, and then you should have a 3" circle, big enough to fit a rolled napkin into it. I love the little beads that I found on my garland. It adds a little sparkle to each place setting.

Next, lets make the placemats and napkins. For the placemats, cut, 4 - 16"X20" rectangles - out of each pattern of fabric that you have. So, you should have 4 - 16"x20" rectangles of one pattern and 4 - 16"x20" rectangles of the other pattern. For the napkins, cut 4 - 18" squares of each pattern - your total should be 4 - 18" squares of one pattern and 4 - 18" squares of the other pattern.

Next, take one rectangle/square of each pattern and lay both sides of the fabric down, with the patterns facing each other. Pin all the way around.

Sew edges all the way around leaving a 1/2 seam allowance, and be sure to leave a 2" opening on one side.

Trim any excess fabric and clip the corners at an angle. This will help in making sure that you have a nice point at each corner. Flip your fabric right side out using the 2" opening to reveal both patterns.

Press the placemat/napkin with a hot iron to remove wrinkles and to make sure your sides are nice and flat. Flatten the seam where the 2" opening remains.

Return to your sewing machine, and sew the edges all the way around for a nice clean look.

This is a great way to add a custom look to any table setting. You can also make fabric coasters using this same method. These are a great gift idea for a new bride-to-be, friend, host or hostess. Happy Sewing!

Fall…..On A Roll!

2011-09-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Written By Sarah Christiansen

Autumn is one of my favorite times of year. Here is a quick and easy no-sew project that even your children will enjoy making. All you grandma’s out there may enjoy this fall project with those grandkids!

Pumpkin Roll

Items needed:

- A roll of toilet paper (any basic, cheap kind will do)

- 10" square of fall fabric, orange solid or whatever you would like to use

- 4" x 5" rectangle piece of paper grocery bag

- 8" piece of quilt batting

- 2 yds & 2 ft of jute string or twine

- artifical fall leaves or ivy

- glue gun and glue stick

- wire cutters

Directions:

Wrap roll of toilet paper with quilt batting to make a pumpkin shape, leaving one end of the cardboard roll uncovered.

Next, place your piece of fabric wrong side up on a flat surface. Center batting-covered roll on top of fabric with uncovered end of roll facing up.

Bring the corners of the fabric up to center of the roll. Stuff the fabric into the uncovered end of roll, covering batting and maintaining the pumpkin shape as shown in the photo.

Take your rectangular piece of grocery bag and roll paper to make a 4" long stem. Glue as needed to hold. Wrap jute string/twine around stem as shown. Trim excess and glue ends to hold.

Insert one end of stem into the opening on top of the pumpkin. Glue to hold.

Use wire cutters to trim stem from fall leaves or ivy spray. Glue leaves or ivy around the base of the stem.

Happy Autumn!

T-Shirt Dress

2011-08-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

This is truly one of the easiest and most economical skirts that I have ever made.

Items Needed:
- Sewing Machine
- an old t-shirt (the bigger the size, the better - mine was a 2X)
- matching thread
- elastic thread (found in the thread section at your local sewing store)
- 1-2 empty bobbins
- cutting mat & ruler
- rotary cutter & scissors
- sewing pins
- invisible pen or sewing chalk

Turn your t-shirt inside out and lay it out on a flat surface. Match your hems and then pin the hem. (This will help you keep your hem straight when you have to cut your garment.)

If you have a little girl, you would just cut the t-shirt under the armpits all the way across, but I wanted extra length to my skirt, so I cut mine up under the neck line. When you cut this high up, you will get the curve of the sleeve in your cut too, but that is okay, we will fix this later on.

Next, pin the sides of your shirt were your new side seam will be. Sew these seams on both sides.

Next, take your elastic thread and by hand wind it onto your empty bobbin. Be careful not to pull the elastic when you are winding it onto the bobbin.

Now we are going to fix the curviness of the side seams. Lay your garment on a flat surface. Angle your ruler to about a 45 degree angle. Draw a line with an invisible pen or sewing chalk. You will now sew down this line on both sides of your garment. Once this is complete, cut off the excess fabric and now you have your new side seams.

Thread your sewing machine with the matching thread and insert the bobbin filled with elastic thread. I used my sewing foot as my guide. If it works better for you to mark on your garment were your sewing lines will be, do so now. Start sewing your waistband. I started at one of the seams, sewed to the other seam and then ended. So, in the end, I had 4 rows of sewing lines; from seam to seam.

Next, you can you tie the excess elastic thread into a knot. Cut excess threads, and there you have it.

This really only took me about 30 minutes to make. So easy and very economical to make. I got the t-shirt from my husband, the thread I already had, so all I had to buy was the elastic thread which cost me $1.00. So, for $1.00 I made this super cute and very lightweight skirt. I love that the hem is already done and what fun it would be to give your little girl a skirt made from her daddy's or grandpa's t-shirt. Be sure to keep a look out at thrift stores and garage sales, you might be able to get a really cute t-shirt very cheap.

No-Sew Hair Tie

2011-07-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Written by Sarah Christenson

This is a super cute, fast and very easy way to make a hair tie. These would also make a great gift and any girl around the ages of nine on up, could make these too.

Items needed ~

- Tulle - 4"-6" of any 2-3 colors of your choice

- Hair ties - (I found my at Target in the dollar section, 12 ties for a $1.00)

- A can of soup or tomato paste

- Scissors

- Ruler

- Ribbon, lace or any other kind of embellishment

Let's get started!

First, take your can of soup/tomato paste and put one of the hair ties on it. This can is going to act as your "second pair" of hands. You want the can to just keep the tie from slipping down. Be sure that it is not stretching the hair tie in any way.

Next, lay out your tulle. Keep the folded edge towards you, making sure that it is all flat on the table, and then start to roll it like a burrito. As you roll the tulle, make sure there are no wrinkles or puckers in the fabric.

Once it is all rolled, cut the end of the tulle (through all the layers), so that you have a nice, even edge to start cutting with.

Take your ruler and measure two inches from the edge and cut. If you are using 3 different colors of tulle, the first color you start with will be your "main color”. (You are going to start and end with this color) Cut 2, two inch strips of this color. The other colors just cut 1, two inch strip. If you are only making a tie with two colors, you need to cut 3, two inch strips of the "main color", and 2, two inch strips of the second color.

Once your strips have been cut, take your strips and lay them flat on the table. Your strip should measure around 2" by 42". Fold the strip in half and cut. Fold it in half again and cut. So, in the end you want your each strip to measure 2" by 14".

Next, take your "main color" and tie it in a knot around the hair tie. I like to tie on two strips of the same color in a row, because it will make the colors a little more vibrant. Next, add your ribbon or embellishment here. (These should be cut to 14" in length.) In the purple hair tie I made, I used a darker purple tulle (two strips) and then a some ribbon that matched. Next, tie on your second color, and then your third color (if you have one).

Continue this pattern around the hair tie. The last two strips of tulle you tie on should be your "main color." Continue tying all your strips in the pattern you desire onto your hair tie. Once you have the pattern desired, you are done. If you measure the hair tie, the strips should only take up about 2" on the hair tie. DO NOT tie hair strips all the way around the hair tie. It makes it incredibly hard to make a pony tail with the hair tie, and it will get tangled in the hair too.

'Voila! A super cute and easy hair tie for a sweet, little girl. Be sure to come back next month for a tutorial on how to make a skirt from a t-shirt.

Trash to Treasure

2011-06-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Written by Sarah Christenson

We have been in desperate need of a nice trash can in our downstairs bathroom. I wanted something inexpensive, yet nice. While shopping at Goodwill, this idea came to mind.

~ Items Needed ~

- trash can…size and style…your choice

- fabric (1/2 yd. - depending on the size of your trash can)

- hot glue gun

- scissors

- decorative trim

- decorative tassel

- sand paper

The trash can I purchased at Goodwill for $0.99. It is made of a hard, shinny plastic, and so in order for the fabric to stay in place without slipping all over, take your sand paper and sand all around the trash can. Do the bottom and inside a little bit too. I used a Medium grade #100. When using sand paper, the lower the number, the rougher the sand paper will feel on your hand and the quicker and more it will sand.

Next, make sure your piece of fabric is ironed, so there are no wrinkles. There is no way to really create a pattern, because it all depends on the size of your trash can. So, with the fabric lying flat on a table, wrap your fabric all around your trash can, leaving enough fabric (at least an inch), to close it on the sides, and around 4 inches at the top and enough fabric to cover the bottom. Iron the right side and left side, about an inch on each side. This is where you will close it. You can also iron the top, so when you adhere it to your can, the fabric edge inside the can will be nice and smoothly finished.

On the left side, run a line of glue on the fabric and adhere the fabric to your trash can. Pulling tightly, continue to wrap your fabric around the trash can, being sure that there are no bubbles or wrinkles in the fabric. Once your can is covered, run a line of glue on the right side of the fabric and adhere that to the fabric covered can. Now, your trash can should be completely covered all the way around.

Next, stand up your trash can, and pull out all the fabric on the inside of your can. Run glue on the inside of your fabric and adhere that to the inside of the can.

Flip the can upside down. On the bottom of the can, run glue on the trash can itself, so you can stick your fabric to it. From a leftover piece of fabric, I cut a small oval to cover up any fabric that was sticking out from the bottom, and it also made it nice and smooth.

Now you are ready to adhere your decorative trim. ALWAYS put your glue on the trim. I did not measure with a ruler where to adhere my trim. If you would like an exact measurement (how many inches from the top), be sure to use a ruler. Continue adhering your trim all the way around your can until your ends meet up. Be sure to make sure that when adhering your trim, that the ends of your trim meet in the back, so they are not noticeable.

Finally, adhere your tassel. I used a small strip of ribbon to tie mine to my decorative trim. There you go, now you have something beautiful to put your trash in

Homemade Love

2011-05-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

By Sarah Christiansen

Receiving or giving a card is quickly becoming a thing of the past. But it is still considered proper etiquette to practice this kind trend and the receiver of the card always appreciates it. It is a way of keeping hearts close to one another and just being an encouragement as well. Learning to make your own cards can save you money and makes your “gift” even more special to the receiver!

A Simple Card

Items needed:

- an old envelope

- 12x12 piece of cardstock

- 8.5 x 11 piece of cardstock

- paper cutter & scissors

- any old cards that you may have

- double-sided tape or a glue stick

First, open your old envelope and place it on a piece of paper. Trace around the old envelope (I used paper clips to help me hold the template down), and cut it out. This is your new envelope template. Due to the size of my envelope (when unfolded), it would only fit on a 12x12 piece of paper. Take your envelope template and place it on your 12 x 12 piece of paper. Trace and cut it out. Fold your new envelope sides.

My old envelope had triangles at each side, so I just had to fold each side up, matching up the points of the triangles. Next, glue the sides and the bottom of your envelope together, being careful not to glue the sides/bottom to the inside of the envelope.

Next, take your 8.5 x 11 piece of cardstock and cut it in half. You should have two pieces of paper that measure 5.5" x 8.5". Fold these in half. When making my own envelopes and cards, I like to match the envelopes with the cards. So, take some extra paper that you have from your envelope and cut it into squares or rectangles and glue them onto your card.

Next, I took some old pictures I had cut from cards that were given to me. Glue these onto the top of your card.

Quick Tips:

- Take your child's hand or foot and paint it with craft paint and stamp it onto the card. These make great baby thank you cards!

- Need a smaller-sized card? I found a cute small envelope template at a scrapbook store. On the one card, I cut two triangles, put the points together and then glued a button on top. On the other card, I took some of the envelope paper, cut a rectangle and colored the flowers in.

- In the craft sections of most stores, they already have pre-cut envelopes and cards. I was able to find a package of 25 on sale for $1.50.

- Go to a paint or design store and ask for some old wallpaper books. They usually will give these books out free. Wallpaper makes great cards and envelopes too!

Have fun, and be creative!

A Potted Gift

2011-04-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Shared by Sarah Christiansen

With Spring’s arrival, I decided to make a little spring bouquet for my neighbor, in an attempt to just add some cheer to her home. I thought I’d share this easy-to-do project with you. Perhaps you might have a neighbor who would enjoy it also.

Items needed:

- silk flowers

- wire cutters

- clay pot

- dried spanish moss

- craft paint, a paint tray or paper plate

- ribbon

- glue gun

- styrofoam block, cube or cylinder

Put a little bit of craft paint on your paint tray or paper plate. I used three different colors that coordinate with my flowers. I used dark green, moss green and white. You can use a folded paper towel to dab the paint on the pot. I used the corner of a foam stamp.

I just dapped in little circles all around my pot.

Once your pot is stamped with paint to your liking, add your styrofoam piece. Styrofoam comes in many shapes and sizes. It can be found pretty much at any store in the craft section. I bought mine at the Dollar Store. If you need to cut your foam piece down to size, just use a serrated knife. The piece I used fit perfectly, although, it was a little loose in the bottom, so I glued it to the pot with my glue gun. You want the foam piece to fit tightly into the pot, otherwise, if the pot tips over, everything will fall out.

Next, take your silk flowers and trim them to the correct size with your wire cutters. I like to stand up my flowers next to my pot so I can see where they need to be cut. Insert cut flowers into foam.

Add some dried spanish moss around the stems of the flowers. This is used to cover the foam and it gives it a clean, finished look.

Now, take your ribbon and tie it around the top of the pot and make a bow.

Finally, I added a little sign with a verse.

The samples are ones that I had made for above my kitchen sick. The little tray I found on clearance for $2.00. Use your imagination and give a gift from the heart. They will apprecaite it! Happy Spring!

Other options:
- Do not paint the clay pot. A nice clean pot with a ribbon is quite attractive.
- You can purchase flowers already in a bunch. This makes it quite easy to assemble.
- Use real flowers or a green plant. Real flowers are always lovely. I chose not to on this gift, because she is older and might have a hard time remembering to water it. Also, I always try to be very careful about allergies. Some people are very sensitive to smells.
- This makes a great Get Well gift, Just Because I Care gift or whatever fits the situation.

Fabric Covered Pen or Pencil Holder

2011-03-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

Written by Sarah Christensen

As a child growing up in a family of eight, my mom was always very diligent about teaching us to recycle. So, after many days of our pencil holder falling over and contents spilling out everywhere, I came up with this quick and easy idea.

Items Needed:

- an empty soup or tomato sauce can (thoroughly cleaned and dried)
- a scrap of fabric (big enough to cover the can)
- ribbon, trim, button or any kind of embellishment
- glue gun & a glue stick

I DO NOT recommend using cans that have a pop-top lid. The inside of the can has a raised edge which is very, very sharp and it will cut through your fabric.

First, measure your can so that you know how much fabric you need to cut. My tomato sauce can measured 13 inches around and 5 inches tall. So, I cut my fabric 14 inches long and 6 inches tall. It is good to leave at least an extra inch for complete coverage.

Next, iron your fabric so that there are no wrinkles. Fold the fabric (about a 1/4 inch) on each edge (right side and left side) and iron it. This will make it much easier when you adhere it to the can.

First, lay your fabric face down on the table. Adhere a small bead of glue down the right side of your fabric (where you ironed the edge) and then place it on your can. Roll your can up in the fabric until it is completely covered. Take the other folded and ironed edge (left side) of your fabric, run a small bead of glue down and then cover your seam. Make sure that when gluing this edge to your fabric, that your fabric is pulled taunt. Now, your can should be completely covered all the way around in fabric.

Flip that can upside down. Run a small bead of glue around the bottom edge of the can and take the fabric with your fingers and push it down on top of the glue. Do this until all the fabric is glued to the bottom of the can.

Flip your can right side up. This next part is a little tricky. Pull your fabric out and on the wrong side of the fabric (which will be sticking to the inside of the can), run a bead of glue all the way around. Then adhere the fabric to the can. Now your can should be completely (from top to bottom) covered with fabric. There should be no visible edges of the can.

I decided to make this can a little fancier. I had some left over home decor trim I had used to make curtains that was just the right length to go all the way around my can. When using trim like this, I recommend putting the glue on the trim and then sticking the trim to the fabric. This allows you to adhere your trim nice and evenly all the way around.

I also made a few holders for my craft & sewing room. These I did in fun colors and I used ribbon, fun trim and a button for embellishment. These are very quick and easy to make, and it helps reduce garbage.

Have fun being creative!

Sarah

Shimmering Candles

2011-02-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

by Sarah Christensen

Don’t you just love candlelight? A candle can add a warm ambiance to any room or dinner occasion. I find that it can also help relax and calm you. Here is a quick and easy craft to make, that will add sparkle and shimmer to any basic pillar candle.

Items you will need:

- any size and color of pillar candle
- Mod Podge - found at any store - in the craft section
- foam brush
- epsom salt - can be purchased at the dollar store
- wax paper
- glitter

Directions

Cut a section of wax paper, about 2 feet long and lay it on the table. (I used silverware to help keep it from rolling back up.)

Spread Epsom salt on the wax paper. Then, spread your glitter over the epsom salt. A little bit goes a long ways.

Next, take your foam brush and spread Mod Podge on the side of your candle. Then, roll the mod podge side of the candle over the top of the epsom salt and glitter mixture.

I did this in sections on my candle, so that I was able to make sure that every part of my candle was covered. Once the sides of your candle are all covered with the epsom salt and glitter mixture, let your candle dry for about 10-15 minutes.

Then, hold your candle and tap it lightly at the top to loosen any of the extra salt & glitter mixture.

There you have it ladies, an easy and very pretty way to add shimmer to your basic pillar candles. What an easy way to add atmosphere, romance and quiet moments to your home!

Back to Basics Gifts

2011-01-09T20:26:00.000-08:00

Written by Sarah Christiansen

In looking for simple gifts for family and friends, my children and I decided to make these inexpensive projects as Christmas presents for each of their teachers this year. It was a lot of fun to personalize each one. I also made a miniature size clipboard. I used all the same ingredients and directions, just at a smaller scale. These are quite simple to make and they make great gifts.

Instructions for making a covered clipboard:

Items you need:
- Clipboard
- Mod Podge (matte finish)- can be found at your local craft store
- Paint/Foam brush
- 2 pieces of paper (8.5 x 11 or 12 x 12) - any style and pattern that you like
- strip of paper that coordinates
- Bible verse
- an initial & an extra square piece of paper to stick the initial on to
- a glue stick
- stickers that match your theme
- 5-6 different kinds of ribbon - cut to 6-9" strips
- magnets (if you want it to hang on a refridgerator)
- glue gun

Out of cardstock, I made a template for the top of the clipboard and a template for the bottom of the clipboard. I left a little extra along each edge to make sure that the whole are of the clipboard was covered.

Next, I traced the template onto the paper and cut it out. I then like to lay everything out on the table first, before I start adhering everything together. I measured my extra strip of paper, cut a square for my initial to adhere to and then cut my paper with fancy scissors to stick my Bible verse on to and I was ready to go.

Meet my new craft friend, "Mod Podge." This is fabulous stuff! It is a liquid, non-toxic glue, it dries clear and it cleans up with soap and warm water. It can be kind of expensive ($5.99), but I was able to purchase mine with a 50% coupon, and it lasts a very, long time.

DO NOT apply the Mod Podge to the paper. This will make the paper very flimsy and it makes it very hard to hold the paper. ALWAYS apply the Mod Podge to the clipboard. Once, you have adhered the top part of your paper to the clip board, lift up your remaining paper, and keep applying the mod podge and then smooth the paper down. Gradually applying the mod podge to the clipboard allows you time to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles that may occur. Once the top paper is glued on, you can then cover the bottom half of the clipboard. Since this is a smaller area, I usually cover the bottom half without lifting the paper. Then I smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles that you may see or feel.

Once that is done, apply mod podge to your strip of paper and cover the seam (where your two papers meet in the middle of the clipboard). (You can use ribbon to cover your seam if you wish, but I found that the ribbon gets a little soggy from the mod podge). Next, use your glue stick to adhere your initial to your strip of paper, and then also adhere your bible verse to your clipboard. Then you can stick on any coordinating stickers or accessories that you wish.

Flip over your clipboard (to the backside) and look at your edges all the way around. Any paper that extends over the edges, need to be trimmed off. At this time, if you choose to, you can also glue on your magnets. At this point, I flip my clipboard back over (to the front) and use my mod podge one more time, all the way around the edges. This helps seal the edges of the paper to the clip board and it will make your edges nice and smooth too.

Then take your ribbons and tie them into knots at the top of the clip board.

Tip of the Day: to cut the end of your ribbons perfectly, fold your ribbon in half, turn your scissors sideways (like you are cutting the side of a triangle) and then "snip." There you go! Now you have a perfect edge to your ribbon.

How To Make Woven Headbands

2010-11-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

Written By Rachael Coe

I love making hair bows and headbands for my daughter, Gracie. When I got started, I had only planned to make a few, just for her. Before I knew it, others wanted them also and within a short time, I began selling them at the local Farmer’s Market. The Farmer’s Market has inspired me to continually be looking for something fun and new to make and sell there. That is where the woven headbands came in. They are very popular, but also beautiful for girls too old for hair bows. You can make them to match school uniforms, pretty church dresses, or even just an ordinary blouse and skirt.

This is a medium difficult craft. It is actually not that hard once you get the concept, but don’t be surprised if it takes a little while for your first couple of tries. Don’t let it discourage you though. Once you get the concept, you can make one in fewer than 10 minutes.

Here are the materials you will need:

4 - 40” 3/8 of an inch ribbon (you can use satin or grosgrain)
1 plastic headband (either black or white) – this can be any inch headband but I prefer at least one inch
Glue gun
Lighter or heat sealing device

Step 1 - Getting Started

Choose your ribbon – The color combinations you can pick are endless. Custom make them to match outfits, school colors or other special occasions. I will show you how to properly place the colors to achieve your desired look.

It is easiest to start with 4 different color ribbons until you get the weave pattern down.

Cut each ribbon to 35-40”. Use your lighter or wood burner to heat seal the ends. You will be gluing two ribbons together, but first you will need to know what colors you want as your outside triangle colors and inside diamonds.

Step 2

Glue one outside triangle color to one inside diamond color. Then glue the other outside triangle color to the other inside diamond color. Make sure you overlap the glued ends by about ¼”.

Step 3

Make an “X” with the ribbons as shown above.

Step 4

Glue the seam of one of the ribbons to the inside of the end of the headband and the other to the outside of the end of the headband. Make sure the outside color is facing up and to the right. Be sure the seams cover when folded over.

Step 5

The colors you place sticking up at the top will be the inside diamond colors, the lower colors will be the outside triangles. Fold down the upper left ribbon over the seam on the front and the upper right ribbon over the seam on the back. This is your starting position. You can also add another dot of glue to hold the ribbons down secure as you fold them. You should be holding the headband upside down and working with the outside of the headband facing you. You are now ready for the 4-step repeated weave pattern!

Step 6 - The 4-Step Weave Pattern

Take the right front ribbon and wrap it behind the headband, between the headband and the back right ribbon. You will now have two back ribbons and one front ribbon on the left and one back ribbon on the right.

Step 7

Now fold the remaining right back ribbon across the front. All four ribbons should now be on the left side. There will be an upper and lower front ribbon and upper and lower back ribbon.
Step 8

Take the upper back ribbon and fold it around the front, placing it under the upper front ribbon and over the lower front ribbon.

Step 9

Take the upper front ribbon on the left and wrap it back going under the back ribbon. After completing this you should now be back to the starting position with two ribbons on the left (one front and one back) and two ribbons on the right (one front and one back). Repeat these 4 steps until the headband is covered.

Step 10

The colors will not be in the same order. They will alternate position as you repeat this weave until the headband is completely covered. Be sure to secure the weave with alligator clips as you move along. This will ensure you will not get any gaps or loose areas.

Step 11 - Finishing the End Off

Continue to weave until you are about ¼” past the end of the headband. Hold the end with an alligator clip to keep it from unraveling.

Step 12

Carefully pull back each ribbon, starting with the lower layers, and hot glue them tightly down. Do this carefully so your ribbons do not unravel later.

Step 13

Carefully cut the excess ribbon about 1/8” away from the end. Be sure not to cut it so short that you expose the plastic headband. You will heat seal the ends so they will shrink down some and round at the edges.

Step14

Use your heat sealing tool to finish off the edges. Be sure not to leave any sharp areas.

You’ve done it! Great job!

Home Canning of Green Beans

2010-10-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

written by Eleanor Emslie

I would like to share some tips on the homemaking art of preserving and canning the foods we grow. This process is quickly being replaced by the convenience offered at the local supermarket. But there is nothing more gratifying for you or your family than the money saved by doing it yourself. With a few instructions and tips to follow, you can be on your way to canning home grown produce.

After you have either harvested or purchased your fresh green beans, follow the pressure canning method for canning them.

You will need a steam pressure canner with a gauge, good canning jars (not mayonnaise jars as they are weaker and will explode under the pressure of the pressure cooker), lids and bands (bands can be reused; lids cannot), a jar lifter, and a jar funnel.

A pressure canner is used with low acid foods such as beans, beets, and carrots. You may need to have your pressure gauge checked for accuracy. Excellent canning instructions can be found in either the Ball Blue Book or the Kerr Kitchen Cookbook. Both are readily available where canning supplies are sold. Always follow directions and don’t try to guess what is correct to do.

Green beans can be canned by either a raw pack method or a hot pack method. I prefer the hot pack method.

Wash the beans, trim the ends, and cut into 1” pieces. Cover them with boiling water and boil for five minutes.

In clean glass jars (Unlike jars used in the boiling water bath canner, these jars do not need to be sterilized.), pack the hot beans sort of loosely to within 1/2” of the top. Add 1/2 tsp salt to each pint or 1 tsp to each quart.

Salt is used for flavor.If you prefer not to use salt, it will not effect the preservation of the beans.

Cover with boiling cooking liquid, leaving the 1/2” space at the top.

Cap each jar with a hot (not boiled) lid and band. Screw the lid and band on firmly but not overly tight.

Process in pressure canner according to directions at 10 lbs pressure. It will be necessary to exhaust steam before you place the weighted gauge in place.You will need to watch carefully as the pressure rises so that you can adjust the amount of heat and reduce it when needed.

After the pressure has returned to zero, remove each jar. You will hear a ‘pop’ sound when each one seals. Before storing the jars, remove the band for reuse. It does not help to screw them down tight. The jar will remain sealed with the lid.

If you live in our area, I will gladly be available to help you by phone or in person, so don’t hesitate to call.

I wish you success.

Raising a Musician

2010-09-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Written By Aubrie Williams

When I was a little girl, I remember music frequently being played in our home. I remember the music of Patch the Pirate and the Sugar Grove Singers, along with my parents singing together in the car. I remember Christian Radio played often and my mother playing the piano as dinner baked. I know for a fact that the only reason that I can even carry a tune myself is because of the strong influence of music in our home when I was little.

I want that same influence of music on my children for several reasons.

Soft Christian music has a very calming effect on a home. I've noticed that when I play godly music, it's hard to argue with my husband or be frustrated at my daughter. Classical, instrumental music played during dinner time has a wholesome effect creating a calming, healthy atmosphere that promotes good digestion.

When a young child is introduced to music and can learn to hear how melodies and harmonies can go together, it stimulates a part of their brain that can increase logic and artistic abilities. The benefits of music to the fetus have been proven to be veritable. But those benefits don't just apply to the unborn. All too often, parents who start their infants on music, fail to continue the healthy habit for the sake of their toddlers and elementary children. By the time children are teenagers, their basic understanding of music, feeling timing, and hearing harmonies and blends has already been established.

I remember singing hymns next to my mom in church and listening as she sang the alto part of the song. She showed me how to follow the notes as they went up and down and I soon learned to hear the harmony part as we sang together. By the time I was 13, I could pick out the alto part in just about any song. It was not a natural ability that just magically manifested in my teen years. It was a skill that had been carefully and subtly taught by my wise mother.

When pride in my ability raised its ugly head, my mother pulled out a cassette tape of me singing at the age of five. I was shocked to hear that I was completely tone deaf! I realized that any talent I had was a precious gift from God, not to be taken advantage of or used for self glorification… but to be used to honor Him who gave it. I also learned that almost anyone can learn to sing!

I believe the most important benefit of music for young children is the lessons learned through giving their talents back to God and the blessings gained by serving in their local church. Singing is one of a few ways that I can serve God in my church.

Whether it be playing an instrument or lifting up her voice in worship, I want my daughter to be able to serve God in the area of music too.

I have already noticed a love for music in my 8 month old. Since she was first born, I began singing to her each night as I rocked her to sleep. At around 4 months I noticed that she would grunt and wiggle if I delayed singing to her. It was as if she knew I was supposed to be singing and she was begging for it.

Now I've noticed that she will "sing along" by ooh-ing or humming when music is played. Often she will look at me as though something is wrong and grunt when the song is finished and the music stops.

Knowing the benefits of music for children, I intend to continue to raise my daughter as my parents raised me. I intend to saturate her mind with wholesome, God-honoring music, and help her to unlock the secrets to the beauty and depth of musical mysteries. My prayer is that my daughter will develop an ear for music and learn to lift up her voice, skillfully singing to our great Lord and Saviour!

My Cast Iron Skillet

2010-08-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

Written By Aubrie Williams

My cast iron skillet is a treasured tool in my kitchen. A good, well-seasoned cast iron skillet adds unrivaled flavor to many of my family’s favorite foods. In fact, before I was married, I told my mother that I could never leave the house without owning my own cast iron skillet. It wasn’t long after that, that I received a gift from her and, sure enough, it was my desired, trusty, old skillet. It is now a gift that I cherish!

Cast iron has been used as cookware since as early as 513 B.C. in China. In the 1800’s it was highly valued; to the extent that George Washington’s mother made a special note in her will to bequeath her treasured cast iron cookware.

Good flavor is just one of many benefits to using a cast iron skillet. Another benefit is durability: a cast iron skillet is next to indestructible and will last for literally generations. This durable, heavy duty pan can become an instant weapon against an unwanted home invader! It’s that tough!

Cast iron also distributes heat evenly so it makes it perfect for using over a campfire or a gas stove. I’ve noticed that foods cooked in my cast iron skillet not only taste better, but they also retain moisture, keeping meats tender and juicy. Cooking in cast iron also increases the iron content of the foods making it a great way to increase the amount of iron in your diet. Even doctors recommend that those with anemia use cast iron.

When you care for your skillet properly, you will have the benefit of a naturally created nonstick surface. This is much safer to use than Teflon which is known for its dangerous fumes. This nonstick surface makes for fast and easy clean-up as well!

A cast iron skillet must be well cared for in order for it to yield the many benefits listed above. Here are just a few common practices to use in caring for cast iron:

Cast iron skillets must be “seasoned” which means they must be coated with some type of oil in order to create a barrier between the iron and the elements that would break it down. Since iron is, after all, a metal, it is prone to rusting when exposed to moisture and air. Seasoning your skillet involves melting oil into every pore of the iron and baking it in to create a barrier that will prevent decay. A seasoned skillet will have a glassy, non-stick surface.

To season your skillet, start by completely washing it. If your skillet is brand new, it may have a waxy barrier that prevented it from rusting. This must be completely removed by using soap, scouring pads, and the hottest water you can stand. Any rust spots from an old skillet can be cleaned off with steel wool.

Next, take a food-grade oil and rub a thin layer on the entire surface of the skillet. Canola oil is what I use and I have found that it works best for me. Leftover bacon drippings is also great to use.

Then, you will need to put your skillet into the oven and bake it at 500 degrees for about an hour. Place a layer of Aluminum foil on the rack underneath your skillet to catch any oil that drips. You may need to repeat this process until you have a nice smooth surface. Don’t worry if it looks discolored or blotchy. A few frying jobs will complete the cure and your pan will be an even, glossy black.

If you ever cook Spaghetti sauce or any tomato based foods in your pan, you will need to re-season it since the acidity will break down the barrier and can shorten the life of your pan. On the other hand, using your skillet to deep fry foods such as chicken or zucchini will actually help “cure” the cast iron and give it better flavor.

As soon as your pan has cooled, wash with warm water. It’s best to use very little dishwashing soap when needed, since soap can break down the oil in the pan and cause you to have to season it more often. Never let your skillet soak in water, especially soapy water.

You may want to put some oil on a paper towel and use it to rub down your pan before you store it. This will keep it from rusting between uses and will protect the seasoned finish. You should also place a paper towel between your cast iron if you are going to stack them.

So there you have all you need to get started using the good old-fashioned cast iron skillet. Isn’t it time we went back to the basics and learned to enjoy the many benefits of the versatile cast iron just as our grandmothers did?

Try it. I’m sure you will like it as much as I do!

Using Your Resources Instead of Your Money

2010-07-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Written By Jana Phelps

My husband is building a little patio in our back yard for our family and for friends that we would like to invite over this summer. He and Sam have been busy preparing the ground for the cement blocks that he will be purchasing, and he needed a “tamper” to make the ground flat and solid for the blocks he plans to lay down. He called a local rental place and found that it would cost $65.00 a day to rent the required piece of equipment. My husband is as frugal as he is creative, so he decided to make his own “tamper” out of scrap wood and some of the weights my boys use for keeping in shape.

Here is the second “prototype.”

Even our dog, Hailey, wants to get in on the action! The first prototype is in the background. It wasn’t heavy enough to do the job but my ingenious husband does not give up and he cleverly constructed his own, workable “tamper”.

My husband is a very back to basics kind of guy and he is my hero! To top it off…we saved a lot of money! Being creative with basic things you have on hand can put money in your pocket!

Mary, Mary….How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-06-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

It’s garden time! The call of springtime hits me every year in April and May and I begin to dream of things I could plant! Planting is the fun part! Maintaining those plants is the harder part. Here are a few quick gardening tips that are easy, affordable and useful.

Vitamins for the garden:
After steaming vegetables for mealtime, use the leftover water for your houseplants.
It’s full of vitamins that will make your plants flourish!

Drainage for plants:
Don’t discard shells after cracking nuts. They work really well in the bottom of flowerpots to create better drainage. God did provide everything for our needs didn’t He!

For tender rhubarb plants:
None of us like stringy, tough rhubarb! Try watering your rhubarb plants well a day or two before you pick your stalks. Even watching the timing of your cutting after a good rain storm will provide you with more tender stalks.

Bordering your garden:
Every pretty picture looks better with a border around it. Your garden is no different.
Here is an edible border! Parsley makes a beautiful border around a flower garden or vegetable garden. It’s a convenient, practical way to have fresh parsley on hand for cooking and garnishes and it’s a conversation piece too!

Animal problems:
A simple solution to keeping dogs, cats and other animals out of your garden patch is to use mothballs! Use masking tape to reseal the opened end of small, empty vegetable cans and fill them about half full with mothballs. In the closed end of the cans, punch a few small holes, and then place the cans in your garden in different areas. The mothballs will last longer this way to help in keeping those unwanted, four-footed fellows out of your garden!

Happy Gardening!

Quick Cleaning Tips For The Thrifty Homemaker

2010-05-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

What did we ever do before all those fancy tools and cleaning products were invented? We found our own ways of doing a tough cleaning job and we also saved a lot of money in the process!

Here are a few basic, quick tips for household chores that can save you money.

Cleaning those dirty corners:
The corners in a bathroom or kitchen, by windows and doors or even tight corners in cabinets, can become dust filled and accumulate dirt over a period of time. Just look in your medicine cabinet and you’ll see what I mean.

What to do?......

Save one of your old tooth brushes when you graduate to a new one and use the old guy for a scrubbing tool in those hard to get to places. An old electric toothbrush is a dandy help and takes less elbow grease too! Those old electric toothbrush brushes wear out too and come in quite handy in their “2nd life”.

Cleaning the microwave:
Keeping up the inside of your microwave on a daily basis is the best idea, but in our hurry, hurry world that doesn’t always happen and food and splatters can create a baked on mess in our microwave. Covering the food you plan to cook in the “mic” with a paper towel also helps cut down on mess.

When all these preventatives fail, try this….

Fill a microwavable measuring cup or coffee cup with water and add a slice of lemon. Boil the water for a minute and then leave the door closed and let the steam do its work and loosen the mess.
In about 10 minutes, open the door and wipe the away the mess! A dirty microwave is not appealing to hungry appetites. It only takes a little time to keep a sweet smelling oven ready for use.

Cleaning ceiling fans:
There is nothing worse than dust accumulated on a ceiling fan, especially if that fan is located over an eating area. Those out of reach places need cleaning too but who wants to buy fancy equipment and hunt for storage space for one item that will be used to clean the tops of ceiling fans?

Here is a great idea using a paint roller. Wrap a dryer sheet or a Swiffer sweeper refill sheet around a clean paint roller and secure the ends with rubber bands. Most of us have an extension handle for our paint roller or we can borrow an extension from a friend and just roll and dust away our dust bunnies that find a home on our fan blades! This is ingenuity at its best! There is nothing to have to store and the paint roller can go back to the garage or storage shed!

Cleaning window screens without removing them:
If you happen to have an air compressor and an air nozzle, you can clean your window and door screens in just a few seconds! Just set the air pressure at 60 psi and blow away the dust, dirt and cobwebs.

If your kitchen window happens to be over the sink , try opening the window and using your sink sprayer hose, turn your water on high and spray through the screen to the outside and voila! You have a freshly rinsed …and clean screen! (pssst…Make sure your husband is not on the outside under your window when you do it!)

I Remember When….

2010-04-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Written By Sharry Kennedy

I went back to re-read an article on "Back to Basics" today. As I read the poem called "The Old Paths", I reminisced back to my own childhood. I am old enough to remember those days of "the old paths". Life seemed to be so much more simple then. Most people knew basic Bible standards and morals and actually tried to live by them.

I remembered back to when I was growing up on the farm. We worked hard, and it was so rewarding at the end of the day to see what was accomplished! I remember that hard work actually felt good! We did not have all the conveniences of today that take away the simple pleasure of getting your hands into the task. It was truly hard work, but at night we slept well because of working hard all day. We didn't even think to look for something to entertain us because we were busy with what needed to be done.

It was so nice to work alongside Mom and Dad and learn from them as I watched how they responded to different things. Granted, not all things were good but I learned good character from them.

Things like:

- Finish what you start

- Do the best you know how to do

- No matter how big the task, start at the beginning and soon it will not seem so large

- Plant the seed and trust God to bring the rain and sunshine to help it grow

- Only buy what you can afford to buy

- Return something that you borrow in better condition than you got it

- If you break something you have borrowed, you need to fix it or replace it with a new one

- Be a good neighbor and be willing to help others out when possible

- Neighbors seemed to work together to get the crops and hay in.

These were just a few valuable lessons I learned on the farm. The old days were not so bad. There were not as many distractions from the simple joys of life.

I yearn for the days when America was a country we could be proud of and people respected our flag. Vulgarity was at least hidden in back rooms and not flaunted for all the world to revel in. They did not have a problem with "In God We Trust", for most people trusted Him and worshipped Him. God was in our thoughts and people would quote things from the Bible without apology because no one was offended. Men would control their language when there was a lady present.

How far we have fallen from the foundation of Christianity that our country was established on!

We really do need to get back to basics. May it start with me.

The Old Paths

2010-01-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

written by a retired minister who lives In Tennessee

Jeremiah 6:16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein."

I liked the old paths, when
Moms were at home.
Dads were at work.
Brothers went into the army.
And sisters got married BEFORE having children!

Crime did not pay;
Hard work did;
And people knew the difference.

Moms could cook;
Dads would work;
Children would behave.

Husbands were loving;
Wives were supportive;
And children were polite.

Women wore the jewelry;
And Men wore the pants.

Women looked like ladies;
Men looked like gentlemen;
And children looked decent.

People loved the truth,
And hated a lie.

They came to church to get IN,
Not to get OUT!

Hymns sounded Godly;
Sermons sounded helpful;
Rejoicing sounded normal;
And crying sounded sincere.

Cursing was wicked;
Drugs were for illness;
And divorce was unthinkable.

The flag was honored;
America was beautiful;
And God was welcome!

We read the Bible in public;
Prayed in school;
And preached from house to house.

To be called an American was worth dying for;
To be called an American was worth living for;
To be called a traitor was a shame!

We need to get back to the basics of Christian living!

A Simple Christmas

2009-12-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

Long waiting lines, people shoving, toys flying, money worries, give me attitudes, and lots of stress seem to best describe the Christmas holidays. Parents go into debt to buy their children the best and most popular toys that they can find. The lines to visit Santa Claus in the mall are huge and children have no problem telling everyone exactly what they want for Christmas. Yet, people still seem unhappy and depressed all December long and when Christmas does arrive and they do not get what was on their gift list, their depression is even greater.

Whatever happened to a simple Christmas? Do we even know what a simple Christmas is ? Have we forgotten why we even celebrate this special holiday? Is it really only for the gifts and the food that we stuff ourselves with?

In the early 1900s, Christmas was completely different from what we celebrate today. Let's travel back in time and find out how they celebrated Christmas way back when:

On Christmas Eve, the tradition was for the whole family to go out together, looking for the perfect Christmas tree. This tree was chopped down by the father in the family and they carefully dragged it back, to set up in their home. Then they carefully dressed up the tree with ribbons and strings of popcorn. They did not spend a lot of money on their tree and most decorative items were homemade and could be reused later.

They would spend Christmas Eve night around the fireplace or piano, singing Christmas hymns and just rejoicing in the Miracle that came so long ago.

Christmas morning, each member of the family gathered together to read the Christmas story in Luke Chapter 2 and to hear the real reason for Christmas morning. There was no rushing anywhere – it was a quiet reflective time. Opening gifts came after the Christmas story and sometimes even after breakfast and lunch. It was common to not have wrapped gifts because paper was valuable. The gifts were put into socks (stockings) instead, and hung from the fireplace (they dried there after being washed). This was not for Santa Claus to fill, but because they had nothing else. Parents lovingly filled the stockings with homemade gifts. Mothers made hats, scarves, clothes, and stuffed dolls. Fathers whittled and carved animals and toys from wood. There were also some nuts and oranges inside these stockings. What treats! Children carefully removed these cherished items and were very thankful for the sacrifices that were made so that they might have these gifts. They had no concept of toy catalogues, so appreciating the simple way was easy to do. Their concentration was not so much on what they would get that year for Christmas but on the most precious gift that had been given so long ago. There was also a Christ consciousness at that time.

Families then had simple, but wonderful feasts where they spent time valuing and enjoying the loved ones around them. They had such fun… with little thought of self, and with much thought of each other. What a simple but joyous time the Christmas season was!

This year instead of elaborate overspending, let's go back to a simpler time. A simple time where Christ is the center and his birth is actually magnified and celebrated. A time with family, enjoying and valuing their presence in our lives.

Care…..about your family’s skin!

2009-11-01T18:20:00.001-08:00

In our contaminated culture, where our very food supply is constantly being attacked with E coli, bacteria and the like, it is good to get our selves back to basic living. What did we do BEFORE we trusted our food processing to other people? In a day where the government thinks it is their right to control and take over every facet of our lives, we still need to be aware of what we are putting into and on our own body!

I believe it is every mother's responsibility to educate herself on the issues at hand. Don't trust your local Wal-Mart to protect your family's health. Just because it is on a shelf somewhere dressed in a beautiful package and it is cheap, doesn't mean it is good for you. Find out what is in it! What can it do to the body over time? Will it build health or tear it down? Does it have natural ingredients or chemicals? You need to know these things and you need to care.

A Word of Warning:

There are some labeled "all natural" products that have these bad ingredients in them! Unless they say USDA organic, they have the ability to sneak in ingredients that are harmful to the body. This is called "Green Washing" and it is done so you will buy the product labeled "all natural" and they are able to charge a higher price as well. Make yourself aware of these things. Getting back to basics will take effort. Remember, you are the keeper of the home! The watch dog for the family! Be vigilant!

The following information is from Premier Research Labs, the World Leader in cell resonant nutrition technology. For the sake of your family's health….take the time to learn.

Eight Chemicals In Skin and Hair Care Products You Should Never Use

Listed below are the 8 chemicals on the "most wanted" list -- the 8 chemicals we most want to see OFF labels of hair and haircare products. Avoid these harmful, toxic chemicals. It's time for first class, super healthy skin and hair care products: Premier Skin And Hair Care.

1. Propylene Glycol

This is a cheap synthetic petrochemical used as an emulsifying base in creams and lotions to make the skin look smooth, but ultimately it ages the skin faster. The Material Safety Data Sheet tells you to avoid skin contact with it because it's a skin irritant! It can denature the skin's protein, leading to poor, saggy skin. It can be absorbed through your skin and potentially cause allergic reactions, and liver and kidney damage.

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

This harsh, caustic detergent is used because it's cheap and sudses well. It's used as an engine degreaser and garage floor cleaner but you'll also find it in shampoo, soap, facial cleanser, etc. Research shows that SLS has a degenerative effect on the cell membranes and denatures protein such as in hair or skin. This can damage skin or hair, leading to aged skin and brittle hair. SLS can corrode hair follicles and inhibit hair growth, contributing to hair loss.

SLS has the potential to cause cataracts (through skin absorption, even without direct eye contact). SLS can denature the protein of the eyes and delay the healing time of the eyes. From skin contact, SLS can be absorbed into your circulation and concentrate in your organs, such as your heart, liver or brain. This is potentially dangerous since SLS is a mutagen, capable of changing the information in the genetic material of your cell and organs.

3. Fragrance

When the word "fragrance," is listed on a label, it means a synthetic fragrance made in a test tube from any of over 200 synthetic chemicals. These "fragrance" chemicals, which can bio-accumulate in your organs, can cause many symptoms, such as headaches, lung problems, skin irritation, dizziness, memory impairment, rash, hyperpigmentation, vomiting, even potential brain damage and more. They are very cheap, toxic imitations of real herbal scents

4. Mineral Oil
This cheap, petroleum-based oil clogs the skin's pores and enlarges them, leading to poor, saggy skin. It decreases the ability of the skin cells to exchange nutrients and waste products. Those allergic to petroleum products may develop skin irritations.

5. Parabens (Propyl, Methyl, Butyl, or Ethyl)

These cheap preservatives are used to inhibit microbial growth in skin care or hair products even though they are known to be highly toxic. They have caused many allergic reactions and skin reactions.

6. Imidazolidinyl and Diazolidinyl Urea
These are the most commonly used preservatives after the parabens. They are an established cause of contact dermatitis (American Academy of Dermatology) and release formaldehyde which is toxic.

7. Synthetic Colors

Synthetic colors are used in a skin cream or shampoo to make it colorful. Avoid them at all costs, along with hair dyes (with the exception of some henna products). They can cause allergy, skin and nerve problems. Synthetic colors are labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a number and color.

8. Triethanolamine (TEA)

Often used in the base of a product and to adjust the pH. TEA causes allergic reactions including eye problems, dryness of hair and skin, and can be toxic if absorbed into the body over time.

Take the time to read the labels on every can and bottle you bring into your house. Anything you put into your body should be scrutinized and you should do the same, to anything you put ON your body.

REMEMBER: Your skin is your largest organ and everything you put on it, is absorbed into the body!

You ARE…what you WEAR!

For more information you may contact:

Geary Grissom

Wholesale Account Manager

Quantum Nutrition Labs

3500 Wadley Place, Bldg B

Austin, TX 78728

888-588-7590

Geary@quantumnutrition.com

The School of Manners

2009-10-01T18:19:00.000-07:00

Let’s look once again at life’s expectations back in 1701. Have you ever wondered how humanity could stray so far from it moorings of decency, respect and good manners?

Here again, I will share from the wonderful little book of reminders called, “The School of Manners” Fourth Edition of Children’s Behaviour 1701.

Of Behaviour at Home

1. Always bow at coming home and be immediately uncovered.

How interesting! The sense you get here is that when a child comes in the door, he was expected to enter with a bow of respect. No slamming of the door or ignoring his parents was allowed. Taking your coat off and showing respect to parents and strangers was expected.

2. Never sit in the presence of thy parents without bidding, though no strangers be present.

Your manners in your parents presence was expected to be the same as if strangers were visiting your home. If they told you to sit down ….you could sit. Otherwise, you stood in respect, waiting to be “bidden” to sit. No plopping of yourself on the couch in the presence of your authorities was allowed!!

3. If thou pass by thy parents, or by any place where thou finds them, either by them-selves, or with company, bow towards them.

Wow! So much respect was shown toward parents! Things certainly were different back then!

4. If thou be going to speak to thy parents, and see them engaged in discourse or company, draw back, and leave thy business till afterward; but if thou must speak, be sure to whisper.

You mean…they could not forcefully interrupt their parents’ conversation? How archaic is that! But it is good manners!

We need to work on teaching children how to notice what their parents are doing and who they are with, before they force their agenda and concerns into an adult conversation. They need to be taught to have enough self control that they do not share their requests in a hysterical, out of control manner.

No weeping and wailing to their parents to garner sympathy or attention.

5. Never speak to thy parents without some title of respect, like : Sir or Madam. Ever notice how hard it is to get children to even say, “Yes, Ma’am or No, Sir”?

6. Dispute not, nor delay to do thy parent’s commands.

Delayed obedience back then, was disobedience! It still is today, even if we don’t recognize it. Children these days are allowed to question the reasoning of their authorities where in the past, no child was ever allowed that kind of power over a parent!

7. Use respectful and courteous, not insulting or domineering carriage or language towards the servants.

Even a child’s body language was suspect if not presented in respect to their authorities. Even the servants demanded respect! My, how parents have been made lower than servants these days. We have lost so much ground in the raising of today’s children.

8. Quarrel not, nor contend with thy brethren or sisters, but live in love, peace and unity.

What a novel idea!

9. Grumble not, nor be discontented at any thing thy parents appoint, speak or do.

That means they were not to argue back or question anything their parents said…or did. Hmmmm.

10. Bear with meekness and patience and without murmuring or sullenness, thy parents reproofs or corrections, nay, though it should so happen that they be causes or undeserved.

A lot of character is needed to take with patience, any injustices, perceived or real, that are sent our way. Children everywhere seek for justification of hurts and slights and tolerate very little correction from their parents.

It is obvious that we have much to re-teach our generation. Every one of these rules in “The School of Manners” fourth edition, are based on Biblical principles. Our world has left them behind and turned aside to follow their own way.

Let us get back to the basics of teaching the simple things that make for happy children and happy homes. Only then can we truly enjoy the blessings of God on our homes.

Back to the Basics

2009-09-01T06:00:00.001-07:00

This summer, a family in our church gave me the most interesting little book. As I perused this 1701 fourth edition of “The School of Manners” or “Rules for Children’s Behaviour”, I was struck with just how far our culture has strayed from these once, very basic, common courtesies. These should be the norm for Christian families, yet there too, the foundations have been destroyed.

Let’s see how things were in 1701…

Of Behaviour at the Church:

1. Decently walk to thy seat or pew; run not, nor go wantonly.

In 21st century language?
- In other words…walk like a lady or gentleman. Do not throw your body onto the pew or seat and don’t be reckless or careless in your manner of entering God’s house.

2. Sit where thou art ordered by thy Superiors, Parents or Masters.

In other words…children are to be told where to sit. They are not to do the choosing.

3. Shift not seats, but continue in the same place.

Oh my! This sounds like orderliness to me. Sounds like the family is to enter the Lord’s sanctuary with a purpose and in reverence.

4. Lend thy place for the easing of any one that stands near thee.

Children are supposed to be ladies and gentlemen and notice if someone may have need of their seat. When was the last time you saw a child offer their seat to an adult? Hmmmm

5. Talk not in the church, especially in the time of prayers and preaching.

Children were to be quiet in the church? It says “talk not in the church especially in the time of prayers and preaching”. In other words…the whole time you are at church before, during and after, children were not to be talking. Prayer time was meant to be a reverent time and preaching was not playing around time.

Thus the old saying that my parents always said, “Children are to be seen and not heard”.

6. Fix thine eye upon the Minister. Let it not widely wander to gaze upon any person or thing.

What a concept! Children should be trained to listen too! Teach them to sit up and watch their pastor as he preaches.

A lot of good advice here and mixed with wisdom of the ages. The problem with unruly children today in our churches, is that they have undisciplined parents. Let’s get back to basics and take the advice of this Author of the English Exercises of 1701. It would do us all well, to heed their wise counsel.

The Miracle Bulb

2009-08-01T18:25:00.000-07:00

God created a small and potent little bulb that hosts a myriad of uses for the human body. This little plant is small…but it is powerful!

In getting back to the basics that our Creator supplied for us, consider the many uses of a garlic bulb!

1. Garlic is a natural antibiotic. It has no negative side affects except the fact that you may smell like a garlic after ingesting too much of it. That is a minor thing when compared to its many health benefits.

2. Many people have had good results using garlic for things like, sore throats, flu, high blood pressure and even in high dosages, to fight cancer in the body.

Other people use it just like they would penicillin. As unconventional as this may sound, one does need to ask the question… “How did they treat illnesses before our drug culture took over”? The many side affects of most drugs on the market today are mind boggling. You’re trying to alleviate one problem but end up creating others just by the medication you take.

3. If you would like to try the health benefits of this miracle bulb, take one clove (or two if they are very small) and cut it in pieces. You can swallow the pieces just like a pill or crush the garlic cloves and eat it on a cracker. If you are fighting a cold or illness you should see improved results soon. A good deterrent to illness is to regularly take a clove of garlic on a daily basis.

4. Garlic can be a formidable weapon against cancer because it provides powerful phytochemicals which inhibit cancer growth. In helping our bodies heal themselves and giving them the immune fighting boosts they need, the mighty little garlic can help in so many ways.

5. Garlic makes pastas, salads, dressings and meat dishes taste even better! Don’t be afraid to use fresh garlic liberally. Don’t let its pungent smell hold you back from enjoying its many uses.

6. To help neutralize garlic breath, eat a small handful of fresh parsley. It too, is loaded with exceptional health benefits!

Take the time to get to know the garlic.

Back to Basics in Shopping

2009-07-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

In a society that is feeling the financial woes of Wall Street, the people in middle America are feeling the financial struggle as well. Personally, I think this tightening of our financial money belt is good for all of us. For far too long, we have lived in excess, and a generation of youth have come to expect this inordinate, overabundance of materialism as normal. Our excess in every part of life is not normal living! Being frugal was once seen as being poor or down and out. Throwing out leftovers after a meal was once considered a way of life. It was expected that there would be more later, so who cares? Now it is seen as wasteful. Truth be told---it’s always been wasteful! It is an obvious part of our ungrateful, unthankful culture, which expects the best of everything.

For Christians, this attitude should never be a part of our thinking, let alone a way of life.

My daughter, Cherith, and my daughter-in-law Lauren, have been examples to many in how to successfully shop at thrift stores and consignment shops. Most people have no clue how many really nice, name brand pieces of clothing these girls have found in thrift shops!

There are all kinds of thrift stores available and the supply is growing every day. Some are good and some are trash. You must get to know them so you can tell the difference. Some stores will hang anything on a hanger, while others carefully go through each piece of clothing to check for torn places, stains or rips.

You can save a lot of money when shopping a thrift store or consignment shop. When looking for any article of clothing, my daughter and I hit the thrift stores and consignment shops first, before we head to the clearance racks at Macy’s ,J.C. Penny’s or TJMaxx.

Here are some tips when shopping in thrift stores:

1. Know your shop. Are they clean smelling and organized? Are things plopped on tables in big piles or are they organized in sizes, on hangers and compartmentalized in sections of the store? Presentation is everything and speaks volumes about the owners.

2. Are there dressing rooms where you can try things on before you buy?

3. Do they like to stock more name brand clothing lines? This tells you that they are more careful in what they are trying to stock and sell.

4. Be willing to take your time to look and examine clothing. Just because it is cheap doesn’t mean it’s good for you to buy. You don’t want to look like a thrift store special! The key is buying cheap but not looking like it!

5. Take your time to look and try it on. Look at the quality of the fabric to see if it will hold its shape for a while. Trust me…there are GREAT deals to be found in a thrift store. Recently, I needed a pair of sandals for summer. I did not want to spend $25-30.00 for a pair of casual summer sandals. I found just what I was looking for in a thrift store. They were brand new. No foot stains or marks on the inside of the shoe which indicated wear and sweat stains. I was elated! God answered my prayer and I left that thrift store walking on air because I only paid $3.00 for those leather sandals!

Take the time to investigate your local consignment shops and thrift stores. Saving money is part of being a good steward of what God gives us. Christian women should not look frumpy and cheap just because they don’t have big bucks to spend in Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Penny’s or Christopher & Banks. For those of you who know my daughter and daughter-in-law, you can see that they dress well.

You would be amazed at how little they spend on the clothes they wear. Be smart, shop smart and you can find bargains too!

The Spinning Wheel

2009-06-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Miss JoAnne enjoys making hand spun socks. They are hand spun on a spinning wheel from 70% Merino wool and 30% Alpaca fleece.

She has even ventured into making doggie boots and scarves for our Northern canine friends!

Spinning takes practice to become proficient. This long lost craft can be enjoyable and very useful as well. A spinning wheel is a machine used to turn fiber in to thread or yarn. This thread or yarn is then woven as cloth on a loom. The wheel’s function is to combine and twist fibers together to form thread or yarn. It is then put on to a bobbin or stick so it can be used as yarn for the loom.

The Design of the Spinning Wheel

"While there is no single spinning wheel design, the iconic spinning wheel has three splayed legs, a foot treadle connected to a footman that attaches to the driving wheel thus making the wheel go around. A horizontal stock is the wooden plank or bed upon which most of the apparatus rests upon. The driving wheel is perhaps the most prominent feature of the spinning wheel and resembles a wheel with turned spindles in the center (thread is pulled along the outside of that wheel). The bobbin is a grooved wooden spool that fits on the flyer, which gathers the yarn after it is spun. The bobbin fits into a U-shaped flyer (a bracket with hooks on it that guide the yarn onto the bobbin and keep the yarn evenly distributed on it). The distaff and distaff arm hold a batch of unspun fiber. These are only the primary parts of the spinning wheel as the typical wheel has well over 100 small parts that fit together to ensure quality spinning."

This information was borrowed from Answers.com. For more information, please go here.

Proverbs 31:19 “She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.”

Dressing The Table

2009-05-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

Last month we talked about introducing candlelight into your family’s dinner hour setting. In order to recapture the lost tradition of the family dinner hour, and to make it a special “event” of the day, I encourage the keepers of the home to be creative. Mom, you set the temperature in the home. Your mood and spirit is contagious. The atmosphere (good or bad), that you create at the dining table is contagious too. Would you like your children to enjoy eating a meal and being together for a time each day? Would you like your husband to look forward to coming home on time each evening? Then create an atmosphere that they can appreciate, enjoy and anticipate.

Don’t be a mom who slaps plastic plates (or worse yet, paper plates), cups and utensils on the table and plops the pot from the stove right down in the middle of the table, and calls it supper.

That is pure laziness. Is the atmosphere of your family’s togetherness, not worth more than that to you?

Truth #1

You don’t have to have a lot of money to “dress” a pleasing table. I encourage young brides to invest in simple dishes that can mix and match with many other colors and styles. You can do this same thing in your wardrobe! Having a few pieces that you can interchange, creates entire new outfits, all with just a few pieces. Having just a few basic dishes will allow you to bring in a variety of other colors and styles to change the look of your table.

Let me show you what I mean:

Notice the basic white plate. That is the starting piece for this setting. I placed it on a larger, charger ($1.99 on sale at Hobby Lobby).

If you have room at a table, chargers add a touch of elegance and add color to a table setting. On top of the gold charger and white plate, I’ve added a colored salad plate. Again….just increasing the color palate makes the setting even more pleasing to the eye.

Notice the changed look by just changing out the plate.

Hint: I have never paid more than $1.00 per plate, for any of my salad plates. I have many. I scour garage sales, thrift shops, clearance shelves, TJMax and Wal-Mart for salad plates that I can “play” with. I have at least 6 different colored sets and most sets were purchased for less than $5.00 at a Thrift Store dish aisle.

My glassware and silverware remain the same but the “look” of the table changes dramatically with the salad plates, chargers and a colorful napkin.

There are so many simple things you can do to create atmosphere for the family dinner hour. Bringing together a simple white plate, charger or placemat, paper or cloth napkin and different colored salad plates can create a new look for any meal.

Take the time to do something special for your family at dinner time. This need not be something you do every night of the week. You may want to pick an evening or two each week for your “special” family night. What ever you decide, work diligently to keep your family dinner hour in tack. Your children need it, your husband deserves it and you will be blessed for making the effort.

Creating Dinner Time Atmosphere

2009-04-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

Don’t you just love it when, after a hard day, your husband calls and says, “We’re going out for dinner!”. Our female mind begins to conjure up all sorts of dreamy scenarios of where we might go for this relaxing respite. Once the shock of our husband’s phone call wears off and depending on the kind of day we just had, we begin to long for the ambiance of our favorite get-a-way spot or restaurant. Why do we think like that? Because we love to feel good and nothing feels better than good food, relaxing music and ‘take me away’ ambiance. If we can’t jump on a plane for Tahiti, then we’ll settle for the “feel” of Tahiti, at our favorite restaurant! That’s just the way we are...

Ladies, we are not alone in feeling this need. Your husband and children feel this way quite often themselves. We are not the only ones who can have a hard day. I experimented on my own family, with what I’m about to share with you, and found that as my children were growing up, they enjoyed and remembered these kinds of dinner times.

1. Everyone of us....need stimulating, relaxing moments on a regular basis.

Even our children need this. School can be stressful at times and there can be hard to get along with people, even in 2nd grade! They need quiet, relaxing times in their lives too. Relaxation and joyous moments actually relieve stress.

2. Candle light is not just for couples!

I love the quietness that candles can add to a room, just by being lit. Our family has always enjoyed lighting a few candles and turning down the lights to sit in our living room and converse. In the winter months this is especially enjoyable. We practiced that same thing during our family dinner hour and have continued to do so to this day.

Our children may have been running around the house like wild Indians, but when the call came that dinner was ready, they ran to their seat and before we prayed, we lit the candles on the table and dimmed the ceiling light. The calm that came over those children was very noticeable. Their voices dropped in volume and everyone began to relax. It was dinner and hushed conversation time, and it felt good!

Try this in your own home. Give ample time for your family’s dinner meal. Set a nice table, light a candle and lower your own voice. Then watch what happens within your own family. Decide ahead of time, to encourage positive conversation. No discipline at the table! Be gracious in your correction of bad manners and the like, but keep yourself calm, for the sake of the ambiance and spirit you are trying to create.

Determine to have dinner hours like this at least 3-4 nights a week. I promise you that you will begin to see your children open up in conversation and you will get to know them better. As they learn to share their hearts with you, be careful that you don’t exploit or shut them down by your response to their openness.

A candle light dinner is the perfect setting for family togetherness. It automatically lends itself to sharing and that is what you are really after.

This month....try just adding candles and dimmer lights to your evening mealtime. I challenge you to just ....experiment. Enjoy your family’s dinner hour!

Next month we’ll talk about “Dressing the Table”.

A Lost Tradition

2009-03-02T07:00:00.001-08:00

For generations, there has been one daily ritual that has brought members of a family together like no other event can. Do you have an idea as to what it might be? Our fast paced life style and the cultural demands around us, have robbed many families of the quiet bonding time called the family dinner hour.

We have become a society of fast food addicts. Drive Thru’s, Kwik stops, take outs and heat and serve meals, are the norm and we no longer even think about pausing over our food to enjoy the people sitting around us. Meal time has turned into self-gratification and the faster you finish, the quicker you can get on to other activities. Families use a dining room table for everything but an enjoyable dining experience. The reasons? There are many. This month I will share one.

1. Moms are no longer the keeper of the home. They are gone most of the day and when they come home, they experience the same thing that dad always does after a day of work.......they’re tired! They don’t feel like cooking. So what do most moms do?

~ She pulls out a pre-made Swanson dinner (check out the salt in one of those!), or a frozen
Stouffer’s lasagna, to pop in the oven. Then she goes to lay down and nap after her hard day at work.

~ Or ....to appease her conscience a bit, she may pull out a frozen, packaged “Lean Cuisine”.

After all....it does sound ‘healthier’ doesn’t it? “Lean”.....sounds fat-free. That’s good! “Cuisine”...hmm… sounds like someone’s attempt at creating a fine dining experience for dysfunctional families. The labeling on a boxed dinner cannot create the unity that your family needs.

The breakdown in the American family has been a gradual and subtle one. The foundation stones of a culture will topple very easily when you pull out the things that hold a family nucleus together. One of those things—is the family dinner table! Families are no longer unified. Communication within a family is all but gone. The notion of a father, mother and the children all sitting around a table, sharing agreeable conversation and experiences, in a respectful, relaxed manner, is but a faint memory of yesteryear.

Once children enter school age, today’s family begins to take on strains that it never had before. Everyone has a different schedule now! Literally everyone! Instead of school work and perhaps a music lesson filling their after school time and teaching them a discipline; children are now inundated with activities to socialize and recreationalize, from the time school is out, until they drag their weary young bodies home and drop into bed....after they grab supper on the run of course!

Mom no longer has time to cook or cares to cook. Many mothers can’t cook, unless she opens a can or box and uses a microwave. In the meantime, the family suffers, while our society calls the shots for how we live and manage our lives and the lives of our children.

If you are a Christian mother, stop the world’s treadmill and get back to real living with your family. You only have so much time to cultivate conversation and really get to know the members of your family. Before you know it, they will be gone and you will long to just have time to sit and talk with them.

Revive the family dinner hour in your home! Make it a scheduled priority every night. Make it something your family looks forward to.

Practice your cooking skills to prepare for it! Your children will look forward to the family dinner table if you learn to create an appetizing meal.

Plan ahead for each evening’s meal. Think about how to make it special. Make it an “event” for your family.

Take the time to really look at your family and to listen to them. Enjoy them while you can.

Next month: How to create an atmosphere.

More Helpful Hints For Healthy Cooking

2009-02-02T07:14:00.000-08:00

5. Go spice shopping! You can dress any meal up with good spices. This will include fresh garlic! It takes a few extra minutes to peel a fresh garlic and crush it in your garlic press, but the results are incredibly delicious! Did you know that garlic lowers blood pressure and acts as a blood thinner? Did you know that that little bulb can help prevent heart attacks and strokes? Use it liberally! The flavor that it adds to soups, meat and pastas is worth the effort!

-What about ginger and turmeric? They are natural anti-inflammatories. Inflammation in our bodies is not seen with the eye. It has been called, "the body's silent killer". Eating the right kinds of foods will reduce and even eliminate inflammation in the joints, muscles and organs of the body. Spices are wonderful little helpers and worth the investment.

Let me make an suggestion: Browse through the Azure Standard Buying Club catalog and walk down the spice aisle. I have started buying my spices in 4 oz bulk packages. You actually get quite a bit of spice for the money. I store it in the freezer to retain freshness and then I just refill the little bottles that I got from the grocery store (and spent twice the price on a whole lot less of the spice).

-What about hot peppers? Did you know that they contain a compound called capsaicin? This hot little number has been found to lower cholesterol and triglycerides. They enhance and strengthen immunity. They help your God given immune system to fight off illness and disease. They can even soothe the pain associated with shingles and arthritis.

These are just a few of the little herbs that God created for our use and health. Get to know them and use them liberally. The Bible speaks a lot about herbs and you can never go wrong in using the things that God created for our good.

Here is just one example of how to use spices for a healthy, tasty meal of pasta.

Begin with your choice of pasta:

-Add crushed garlic and a tablespoon or so of olive oil to the boiling water for extra flavor.
-Boil till andante (check the box for time instructions)
-Drain
-Pour extra virgin olive oil over pasta, about 1/4-1/3 cup. Add a 2-3 cloves crushed garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. fresh ground
pepper.
-Optional ingredients. You can use any or all according to your taste. Basil, fresh or dried, any Italian seasoning, dried oregano, thyme.
The amounts can vary according to your own personal taste. More is better for me.

You may also add any of the following:

Sun-dried tomatoes, three or 4 good handfuls of fresh spinach, Kalamata olives pitted and chopped, or black olives halved, 1/4-1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, or you may add sauteed chicken chunks. The sky is the limit on this very easy to do, spice filled dinner. Add a nice salad and voila! You have a healthy, good for you meal!

Don't be afraid to experiment with spices. In winter the fresh ones are more expensive. In summer you can grow them right outside your back door in a pot or garden.

Enjoy to your own health, the herbs of the field that our Great God created!

Exchanging Store Bought-Processed Food For Real Food

2009-01-01T09:47:00.000-08:00

Every woman needs to ask herself a very personal question.

Am I more interested in 'quick' foods or am I most concerned about building the personal health of my family?

That really is the dilemma between processed foods and cooking from scratch. Most American women have grown up in a fast food, get what you want now, culture. They have given up the more time consuming art of cooking and opted for what looks like the real thing but in actuality, is empty, dead food which will ultimately destroy the health of their family. Our 'have it your way' culture has sacrificed many precious things to have quick fixes in life. From the kitchen to the bedroom, you lose much when you clamor after the fake, quick joys this life has to offer. Anything really lasting and good will take your time.

What can I do to change this trend in my own thinking?

1. Retrain your thinking about cooking. Allow yourself to be taught a better way. Surround yourself with Godly women who have learned to be real keepers of the home and pick their brain!

2. Remind yourself that processed foods may seem cheaper at the checkout, but they will cost you more in terms of your health and the health of your family. Your family needs foods that will feed them at the cell level of their bodies. When cells of the body begin to break down because of lack of real nutrition, overall health begins to decline. That will happen naturally with aging. Why bring those symptoms on prematurely?

Children with poor nutrition will chronically have more runny noses, coughs, congestions, ear infections and the like. Their little immune systems are not in tip top working order and they are already fighting for their health and longevity. Let whole foods be their first medicine.

3. When shopping, stick to the outer aisles of the store. Those are generally the produce, meats/fish and dairy areas of every grocery store. Avoid the many temptations that are found in between.

-Remember: Every store aisle is dressed to capture attention and cause you to buy. If you willfully choose to enter one of those "other" aisles, go for a purpose, do not just browse. You may be looking for yeast, oil, baking soda or granola, so go directly to it and get out of there. The temptation to pick up other things will scream at you unless you are a determined, frugal, careful keeper of the home. Without a plan, you will find yourself spending your husband's hard earned money on things you will all regret.

4. Learn to be a label reader!! KNOW what is in the foods you intend to feed your family. You
are the first line of defense for your family's health. Guard them well. If what you intend to buy contains any of the following.....don't buy it.

-Corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup
-MSG food enhancers
-Enriched white flour
-Saturated fat
-Hydrogenated vegetable oil (trans fats)
-Any item that you can't read and understand the ingredients listed. What you don't know can hurt you.
-Any item where sugars are the first ingredients.
Remember that all ingredients are listed in order of -most to the least. What it contains the most of will be listed first.

Your assignment this month, if you choose to accept the challenge, is to get back to the basics of just reading labels and knowing the source of the foods you are feeding your family. We have become a society that trusts the government, the FDA and the EPA to protect us and our families. That job was not given to the government or any of its agencies. It is our responsibility as keepers of the home.

Healthy Eating

2008-11-14T19:50:00.000-08:00

In our "eat on the run", "grab what you can" culture, we are seeing the degeneration of people's health in record numbers. I'd like to encourage our ladies to get back to basics in how they feed and care for their family. Just because something is on a supermarket shelf and they call it food, doesn't mean that it is good for human consumption. There is so much "dead food" being passed off as nutrition, yet most women today are ignorant of what kind of foods actually promote good health.

" An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

It is not just an old saying----it's a recipe for good health especially when the budget is tight. Preventive care is something that we all can do without breaking the bank. When given the right support nutritionally, our Creator made our bodies to naturally tend toward a state of health.

I cannot count the times that I have heard a mother say, "we just can't afford to eat healthy foods". That is just so, not true!

What we are actually saying is, "we don't want to eat foods that are actually healthy because we don't want to give up what we like that is junky and we really prefer carbs and junk food over real nutrition". Something will have to go, because it is true, you can't indulge in both. There is a reason that some families seem to pick up every flu bug and virus that comes along. I feel so sorry for kids who are sick all the time. It just doesn't have to be that way. There will be times of sickness for everyone, but not every month of the year. In cutting corners on nutritional health care, you actually worsen your health future. Without the care you need (and deserve), you're more susceptible to illness and in the end it will cost you more. I have a great concern for people who are chronically ill and must pop pills, cough syrups and medications to kill the illness, when food could have been the first line of defense in preventing illness.

Ultimately, our health is a very sound investment. When we take the right steps to prevent illness, we not only feel better, but it actually improves our outlook during stress-filled times. God made our bodies to heal themselves. We have a Master Designer who had a plan for His creation. Because of the lust of our own flesh, many have abandoned what God created to be put into our bodies and replaced it with what man has created. No wonder we're sick!

There are so many ways to build strong foundations without too much expense. I'd like to share a few of these simple methods to help support our health.

Back to Basic Rule of Thumb: Let food be your first medicine!

1. Buy organic if you can. If you can't, at least try for fresh, whole foods. Instead of green beans in a can, buy fresh or fresh frozen. Instead of spinach in a can, buy fresh (it wilts when cooked too) or fresh frozen. If they cost you a few pennies more, skip the chips in your grocery cart and consider the bountiful benefits they provide for your health. Isn't that worth it?

It's often what's not in the foods you buy, that makes the difference!

2. Buy a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. They are packed with nutrients and fiber and can squelch hunger pangs. If you can't afford fresh produce, head to the freezer aisle and choose brands that have the fewest, or no, added ingredients. Watch for fruits and vegetables that are in season also. Once you switch over from junk to fresh, real food, you will not want to go back.

3. Learn to can and put away summer produce. Look well to the ways of your household and do not eat the bread of idleness. That is the real problem in our culture. Lazy housewives.

4. Buy in bulk. Watch flyers for what is on sale. Learn to think frugally.

5. Cook in larger quantities and freeze prepared meals in individual servings for school lunches and snacks. Paying for someone else to cook a prepackaged frozen meal is expensive. They are loaded with salt, sugar, artificial colors, preservatives and other fillers. They do not promote good health. Just determine to stay away from processed foods. You do your own food

processing! You and your family will be glad you did.

I'll share some tips next month..... till then..... be healthy!

Pumpkin: From Patch to Table

2008-10-02T19:28:00.001-07:00

From Patch

To Table

Here in the Red River Valley of the north we’ve passed our average annual frost date and are still enjoying great weather with no frost yet. That’s wonderful news for the farmers who want some more time for their corn and beans to mature. But, soon the "frost will be on the pumpkin" and we’ll be longing for the aroma and spicy flavor of home baked pumpkin pie.

Native Americans used pumpkins for food long before any European settlers arrived in our country. The pumpkin pie originated when the colonists cut off the head of the pumpkin top, removed the seeds, and filled the insides with milk, spices, and honey. Then they baked the pumpkin in hot ashes.

Some pumpkins are bred for the making of pie filling, and have more dense pulp than the watery jack-o-lantern varieties. When growing or purchasing a pumpkin, it is best to get one specially bred as a pie pumpkin.

There are several ways to prepare the pie filling from scratch, but I find that the easiest is to bake the pumpkin whole. Remove the stem by tapping it with a hammer. Wash the pumpkin and spray it with cooking oil spray. Make steam vents in many places on the pumpkin by poking the skin with a knifepoint (no need to cut or peel first.) Preheat conventional oven to 350°. Place the pumpkin on center oven rack and bake for approximately 1 hour or until soft when poked with a fork. Remove the pumpkin from the oven and let cool enough to be handled. Cut into two pieces and remove the seeds from the pumpkin. There may also be some spines that need to be removed. Mask the pulp or process in a blender so that it will be smooth and not stringy. Measure and use the pulp as you would for store bought pumpkin.

Here are two of my favorite pumpkin recipes:

Libby’s Famous Pumpkin Pie

¾ c sugar 1 tsp salt MIX all ingredients in
1 tsp cinnamon blender beginning with the ¼ tsp cloves liquids.
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs POUR into pie shell.
2 cups pumpkin
1 12oz can evaporated milk

BAKE in preheated 425° 1 unbaked pie shell oven for 15 minutes.
Reduce temperature to 350° and continue to bake 50-60 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean.

Pumpkin Spice Bread

In a large bowl combine 3 cups sugar, 1 cup vegetable oil, and 4 eggs. Add 2 cups prepared pumpkin and mix well. Combine 3 ½ cups flour, 2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp each salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, ½ tsp each cloves and allspice. Add the dry ingredients alternately with ½ cup water. Pour into two greased 9"x5"x3" loaf pans. Bake at 350° for 1 hr or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans to a wire rack to cool completely.

Just as a recipe requires special ingredients, remember that you too are special to God. He fearfully and wonderfully made you. Think of that as you bake.

Eleanor

Taco Seasoning Mix

2008-09-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

Saving money in the family budget is a necessity these days. Saving money and being healthy in the process is even better. I have been using this homemade taco seasoning mix for several years now. I very rarely buy a mix from the store. My family even prefers this mix over the store bought kind. I can also add more or less according to taste and some members of my family like it spicer than others do also. Making the mix yourself gives you a lot of extra options and you are not confined to "one little seasoning packet".

Another plus here, is for those that may have allergies to ingredients found in store bought taco seasoning packages. My mother-in-law cannot eat cornstarch so I don't add that to hers. It still comes out fine. I just don't use as much water. Once you try this recipe you will not want to buy it from a package again. I promise!

Taco Seasoning Mix

6 Tbs and 2 tsp instant minced onion

3 Tbs and 1 tsp chili powder
5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

21/2 tsp dried oregano
3 Tbs and 1 tsp salt
5 tsp corn starch
5 tsp instant minced garlic
5 tsp ground cumin

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl or an empty minced onion container. Shake well.
Store in a cool dry place and use within six months.
When making tacos, burritos, taco salad or any recipe that calls for taco seasoning, use about1 Tbs instead of the packaged kind and 1/2 cup of water.