tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83770994064130229182012-01-26T22:34:38.928-08:00Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.comBlogger4891100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-1883185684848579782012-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:002012-01-01T09:09:57.776-08:00

Peace. How many holiday cards did you receive with wishes of “peace” to you and yours in the New Year? What does a wish for “peace” actually mean, anyway? As a noun “peace” is defined as a cessation of or freedom from any strife or dissension. As a verb, to be at peace means to be untroubled; tranquil; content. The world would most certainly be a better place if we all actively sought out

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-51758771066729245492011-12-31T11:03:00.000-08:002011-12-31T11:04:28.228-08:00

Each and every year for several years I’ve resolved my new year with one word. 2011 was the year of “Challenge”. I think I was far too romantic in my vision of what that would mean for my life. Merriam-Webster’s definition of challenge is to arouse or stimulate especially by presenting with difficulties (emphasis mine). Perhaps I should have looked this up before choosing my word last

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-59303120448246624962011-12-20T19:52:00.000-08:002011-12-20T20:04:32.957-08:00

In the town of Charming, Pastor and Poet lived a charmed life with their two sons: Performer and Sunshine. Every day Poet would awake, walk out to her garden, and would meet with Inspiration and Provision. Occasionally she would have Provision remain for dinner, and was ever grateful. Inspiration would be her companion throughout the day, often chiming in when Poet watched her boys play,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-80131986934033999382011-12-01T20:12:00.001-08:002011-12-01T20:25:30.659-08:00

Though I am back to a full-time work schedule, I am still trying to save dollars and cents where I can.  I love an opportunity to do so while keeping the chemicals that are around the house to a minimum.  And so, without further adieu, my all natural drain cleaner: Beautiful, ain't it?!  I already buy my vinegar at Costco, as I use it to clean our coffee makers and other household

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-60291988578320294712011-12-01T19:47:00.001-08:002011-12-01T20:10:25.989-08:00

I don't know about you, but December brings with it quite a bit of busyness. With said busyness (which I don't think a bad thing), I really try to make a point of being intentional.  Intentional with cards.  Intentional with gifts.  Intentional with my kids. Intentionality is where the idea for an advent paper-chain came in.  I figured it was the type of craft I could

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-74488147236701078332011-11-21T19:39:00.001-08:002011-11-21T20:15:27.068-08:00

Dear God, I really want pretty flowers in my garden.  Would you please give me some? Thanks, Jolene P.S. - I want pink ones.  That smell pretty.  That don't have too many thorns, you don't want me to get hurt!  And not too small, I want to be able to cut them and put them into a vase.  Okay?  Thanks. P.P.S. - I know that my soil is a mess with weeds and rocks.  You can work miracles,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-37111396825653337212011-11-02T22:45:00.000-07:002011-11-02T22:45:33.130-07:00

A pumpkin vine is a fascinating thing.  No, it doesn't audibly speak, but if you pay attention, it might offer a morsel of wisdom.  This year I planted giant pumpkin seeds, in hopes of growing a GREAT pumpkin. Though that didn’t quite pan out, I did learn a few great things from this all-consuming life-force. By far, the greatest lesson I learned was through the pumpkin vine’s ability to

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-2488346824309114082011-10-05T15:06:00.000-07:002011-10-05T15:08:54.286-07:00

Today is my best friend Jessica's 30th Birthday.  As I've been contemplating this post for a while, I thought it only timely to post it today in honor of her. Jessica and I have been friends for 18 years now.  Our entire lifetimes have been woven together.  Every important life event has been documented together.  The tears that we've shared have been those of joy, pain, heartache and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-25779992093368324442011-10-02T16:17:00.000-07:002011-10-05T15:08:31.610-07:00

I took this picture several months ago. This television had been sitting on our street in front of someones house for months, and after time the weather and people took a toll on it. I really thought it was a beautiful picture of a thousand metaphors. The metaphor most fitting today is a personal one:  "Beauty and potential broken down by time and elements."  I feel like this television.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-20216812568983698782011-09-06T14:12:00.000-07:002011-09-06T14:12:43.645-07:00

Hubby and I have given Christian a challenge in preschool: learn a new name / make a new friend every day.  I've noticed a trend...they have all been girls.  When I asked him about this today, he told me that he just likes girls.  As Danny asked Christian about his name assignment today, he asked about one of Christian's first friends, Bella.  (Christian had told me that Bella isn't nice and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-40022603360201708442011-09-05T23:03:00.000-07:002011-09-05T23:03:30.080-07:00

Christian: "Jonny, say 'Mommy'....'Daddy'....'Christian'..." (Jonathan says them, thus obeying his brother's demands.) Christian: "Jonny, say 'Migration'.  SAY IT." Jonathan: "Mi.................ga......................shon." ___________________ Me: (After getting my foot stuck under the door) "OUCH!  That hurt!" Christian: (Unsympathetic) "Mom, your life is hard right now, isn't it?!" _________

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-7154788133861816382011-09-05T22:43:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:50:08.918-07:00

Ryan is my cousin on my dad's side, and he and I were born only months apart.  I have great pictures of us running around in matching pajamas and remember fun Thanksgivings and Easters spent together. Ryan met his beautiful bride, Vanessa, in a way we never would have imagined before the invent of the world wide web: an internet dating site.  From the stories I've heard, it was a very real, very

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-49568218681474844492011-09-04T21:55:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:51:02.415-07:00

It's official.  My Christian Daniel is in preschool.  He is a big boy. His first day of school was his birthday.  He turned four and started preschool.  Where did the time go? Danny went to the same school, with the same view of the hills behind Christian in this picture. A reminder of the agricultural presence in our community.  The kids can watch farmers work from the playground. When

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-41465163900152969192011-08-30T22:40:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:51:39.439-07:00

Motherhood is a messy job. When yogurt is involved. When sugar is involved. When you let your little one clean the bowl. And don't turn your back.  Your little one might climb up, grab your netbook, and remove 13 keys. Or, if you turn your back to help a neighbor, that same little one might sneak your sourdough (two days in the making) and treat himself. And don't get me

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-82701336925304852722011-08-29T23:14:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:52:25.973-07:00

Once upon a time, three months ago, I had three little pumpkins growing on my vine.  I blissfully chronicled their growth every day.  One day, Christian came into the house while I prepared dinner and excitedly told me that he had picked me a "squash".  It was one of my pumpkins.  My heart sank.  ::SIGH...Frustrated SIGH::  One less potential jack-o-lantern.  Only days later I came out to find

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-76254335936762978382011-08-29T22:37:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:53:14.694-07:00

Being quietly awed by sweet sibling moments. Simoltaneously melting and laughing at a toddler newly up from nap with crazy nap-hair. Taking thousands of mental pictures everyday of the most precious moments. Realizing that your "baby" is becoming less so every day. Moments after dinner of silly talk and cuddles. Doing my best to cultivate that sibling love that takes on flesh at

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-83458273528716256732011-08-17T21:47:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:54:20.738-07:00

My mother-in-law is a very inspirational gardener.  Whenever I have a gardening question that I can't find an answer to, she invariably has the answer I'm looking for. Recently we were talking garden-talk and she told me she had clipped her basil plant when it was bolting (flowering).  She put the clips into a glass of water and it sprouted roots!  She's now replanted the clippings and has new

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-61917953271421478722011-08-17T21:27:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:55:16.814-07:00

Jonathan, my darling little boy, is becoming more of a big boy by the minute.  He's been climbing out of his crib for quite a while now, and it has concerned me a bit.  The sound of a bonk and then the three second silence before a heart-wrenching scream awoke me many a morning, and that is no way for anyone to wake up.  And so, we decided, it was time.  Time, for the big boy bed. Our dear

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-34859957318789149662011-08-16T11:18:00.000-07:002011-09-05T22:56:10.866-07:00

Pinterest.  If you haven't discovered it yet, you ought to check it out.  Essentially, it is a website where you are able to create a virtual bullitin board with links from the various websites you want to revisit for that idea / recipe / decoration idea that you otherwise would bookmark and forget about. Thanks to Pinterest, I've discovered (or been reminded of) some fabulous ideas in the

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-51326141014580848112011-08-16T10:56:00.000-07:002011-08-16T12:06:08.798-07:00

The small town of Nuevo, where I live, is much more agricultural / rural than any other place I have lived.  In the past few years, my sleep deprivation has kept me from truly enjoying what this means.  This summer, however, I am soaking up the bounty of summer. As you know, I have my first kitchen garden and to say that I am enjoying it is an understatement.  I pick straightneck squash, basil,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-89159406871317864092011-08-15T20:54:00.000-07:002011-08-15T20:54:55.513-07:00

Birthday season isn't quite closed.  Christian's birthday is coming up in a week, and Jonathan's in a month.  'Tana Nana sent the boys their gifts early, and they came in some fun boxes. After I opened the boxes and put the gifts away, I was faced with a dillema.  Whatever should I do with these boxes?  Of course, I cannot throw them out with two little boys in the house.... And so, while they

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-81831019973542299252011-08-14T23:56:00.000-07:002011-08-14T23:56:56.568-07:00

I've now come to readily agree with the old adage, boys will be boys.  There's just no fighting it. They will use a box as a hide-out, their brother as a "special source" (-Christian quote), and are ready to shoot at any moment, because, after all, they are secret agents. They drink filthy bath water, because it is so fun to see momma gag. They get their secret missions at the same time on

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-2275990612520914482011-08-14T22:44:00.000-07:002011-08-14T22:44:21.014-07:00

The Flores / Meyer families celebrate Christmas in July.  Well, sort of.  It is more like "birth-mas".  My birthday, my dad's birthday, Danny's birthday, his twin, his dad, my parents' anniversary, my sister-in-law's anniversary, the Hekman anniversary.....you get the idea.... This year, I decided it was time to use the gift card I had received for Glen Ivy Hot Springs 2 years ago and went to the

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-37421280186824560302011-08-05T00:49:00.000-07:002011-08-05T00:50:56.770-07:00

Oh dear, how time has eluded me on my blogging duties.  I could blame it all on Christmas in July (birthday central around here).  I could blame it on my (all-consuming) bread.  Honestly, I could blame it on a number of things, but I won't.  Instead, I will do my best to distract you by showing you pretty pictures of my garden. This is my beloved garden now.  Just looking at it makes my heart

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-91884627316874755082011-07-04T07:57:00.000-07:002011-07-04T08:25:56.771-07:00

I recently visited Montana with my boys for 11 days.  My husband stayed home to work.  I learned a lot on my trip, and thought I'd pass along some important lessons to you.  Take note! If flying out of LAX, expect a sig-alert and leave 5-6 hours early.  Otherwise, you might miss your plane with your two little (sleepy) boys and have to wait another 10 hours to get a different flight. When

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3Montana, USA46.8796822 -110.3625657999999744.5580917 -116.36778579999996 49.2012727 -104.35734579999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-49536163907060012412011-07-01T09:17:00.000-07:002011-07-01T09:17:30.421-07:00

Seeds of new life encompassed in cotton, floating on each ribbon of wind that gently carries them.  In groups of thousands, they wistfully and dreamily float, like a lover pining for his mate. Sweet grass, aspen, pine trees and wildflowers perfume the air in a way that makes one spend all their time inhaling deeply, expanding their lungs to full capacity.  It is as if by doing so,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-32166319081564068002011-06-18T13:55:00.000-07:002011-06-18T13:55:33.925-07:00

Monotony has whispered in my ear, so I am using the muscle of thankfulness to fend it off.  This past week I've been thankful for... Bouquets of fresh flowers from my garden, sprinkled throughout the house and giving sweet fragrance to the air. New sprouts of life in my garden. "Normalcy" being interupted by belly laughs with my boys. Inviting rest to a hard-working hubby with a clean home and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-53408776368473444002011-06-18T09:07:00.000-07:002011-06-18T09:07:08.937-07:00

In our house, Easter is a pretty big deal.  After all, we are Christians, and without Easter we...wouldn't be.  And so, we began the celebration weeks before, talking about the real message and meaning of Easter.  Christian surprised us when he prayed before bedtime and revealed to us that he actually did hear what we had been conveying to him... The day before Easter, I decided to

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-72313049675276878682011-06-16T22:14:00.000-07:002011-06-16T22:14:29.808-07:00

*This post was written over 3 months ago, when Jessica actually did the photo shoot.  Better late than never...right?!* If you know me, you most likely know my best friend, Jessica.  We are more like sisters than simply friends, but I'll go on about that in a future post.  ;)  What I really want to share is one of her AMAZING talents: Photography. ®JessHekmanPhotography Jessica has had her

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-15601865271292036362011-06-06T08:35:00.000-07:002011-06-06T08:35:10.437-07:00

I get a thousand questions a day from Christian.  They range from the obvious "Mom, what color hair do you have?" to the profound "Why do people do bad things?"  Oftentimes, we get a chuckle or two as well. Christian: "Mom, where's God's car?" Me:    "He doesn't have one, he flies." ____________________________ Christian: "Dad, (pointing at Danny's wedding band) that's a nice ring.  Did you

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-23989843836487742172011-06-05T07:49:00.000-07:002011-06-05T07:52:21.120-07:00

My husband is a sourdough fiend.  After I began making all of our bread (and other bready things), I decided to make sourdough.  Just like that.  Easy, right?  RIGHT?! And just like that, I tried, and failed.  Many times. Attempt 1. I was generously given a bit of a friend's starter.  She gave me instructions on how to take care of it (you have to feed it...like a pet!), and how to make the

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-23898512501234313832011-06-04T22:34:00.000-07:002011-06-04T22:34:56.845-07:00

San Francisco is another really cool town... The skyline, skyscrapers, architecture, artistic influences, cultural elements and of course the trolleys.  Love it all! We had beautiful weather while we visited.  The Golden Gate was magnificent without her normal cloak of fog lain across her shoulders. When driving across the bridge, it almost looks like she is opening her arms to welcome

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-18439642873108121052011-06-04T20:27:00.000-07:002011-06-04T20:27:35.883-07:00

There was quite a bit to see and do in Santa Cruz, and we just scratched the surface in the two days we were there.  It is a pretty cool town.  You know, in that hemp-wearing, crunchy-eating, hippy sort of way.  ;-) We drove around the UC Santa Cruz Campus... The view from UC Santa Cruz campus.  (Those are dear grazing on "legal" grass, I'm sure.) ...Checked out the world-famous pier (

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-74762038813455762502011-06-04T09:34:00.000-07:002011-06-04T12:21:33.972-07:00

In April, we were able to have the ultimate excuse to get away for a few days: we needed to do a little favor for a cousin of mine by delivering a table to her...in Northern California.  And so, we packed our bags and away we went....up the 101 (the California Coast) with kids in tow.  We discovered a few things along the way.... 1.  The drive is longer than taking the 5 North, but SO much

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-79901545070239334792011-06-03T13:01:00.000-07:002011-06-03T13:01:45.970-07:00

We've had this sandbox for a while now, but when we had rain the sand became quicksand, so we had to wait for sunny days. Well, sunny days are here again, and Home Depot had the sand.   They've been more than happy to play in the sandbox at every opportunity.  One of Christian's favorite things to do now is to pour sand on Jonathan's head.  It is simply mind-boggling the amount of sand

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-86682165986594323292011-06-02T23:49:00.000-07:002011-06-02T23:49:15.984-07:00

 Because I know that you REALLY can't sleep at night without knowing all that is going on in my garden, here are more little tidbits...   Our dwarf Naval Orange tree is pregnant with lots of promising little fruits.  Oh how I look forward to fresh oranges off my own tree! Plants are ridiculously expensive.  My solution: reuse the old containers and plant seeds.  I have lots of sprouts

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-83888146451261107122011-06-02T23:12:00.000-07:002011-06-02T23:12:24.108-07:00

Two years ago I decided to test how green my thumb was by *attempting* a vegetable garden.  I planted carrots, green beans, lettuce, cilantro, peas, cucumbers, tomatoes, basil, peppers and a strawberry plant.  I actually harvested one tomato and lots of basil.  The carrots looked more akin to a science experiment gone wrong, and I had no idea how to harvest lettuce.  Needless to say, I learned

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-69530740419497317362011-05-30T09:25:00.000-07:002011-05-30T09:29:28.007-07:00

The path to freedom is paved by a mixture of blood, sweat and tears.  Good men and women have sacrificed their own liberties, their own freedoms, their own lives for those of their fellow Americans.  Many young men and women leave all semblance of comfort behind when they enter the armed forces.  They maintain the same philosophy: the freedom that we enjoy when we vote, speak, worship and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-15587677996494046382011-05-18T23:07:00.000-07:002011-05-18T23:07:33.465-07:00

Imagine for a moment a couch, lumpy, worn down, stained.  A battered mess.  Yes, one could completely gut it, reupholster and make it new again.  But that takes time.  So, until the full re-finish can be completed, a slip cover hides the mess.  The mess is still there, but at least it is easier to cohabit the same space with for the time being. For the past few months, I've been that couch.  I'm

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-4516222627593172282011-05-08T20:29:00.000-07:002011-05-08T20:31:13.956-07:00

I've learned a thing or two since motherhood began for me four years ago (after all, motherhood begins in pregnancy).  In honor of Mother's Day, I thought I'd share a few of my lessons learned: Don't ever tell a pregnant woman in her first trimester that your morning sickness lasted for 10 months.  You might want to leave out that she looks HUGE at any point.  If you value your life, anyway.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-24961419479097275062011-05-04T15:53:00.000-07:002011-05-04T15:53:02.932-07:00

Once upon a time, her payment was in visits to fancy hotels, exotic destinations, a la carte steak houses. Then she gave birth. Now her payment is in kissing boo-boos.  Giggles trickling down the hall.  Toddler obstacles overcome.  A full-night's sleep.   When once her payment was monetary, with an occasional $$$$ bonus, now her payment is in cuddle-time, kisses, "I love you soooo much, momma!

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-85178939365151828392011-05-03T13:47:00.000-07:002011-05-03T19:49:22.151-07:00

With Mother's Day just around the corner, I have decided to post blog posts about various aspects of motherhood.  Don't worry, I'm working on other posts that have to do with family, friends, vacations and holidays, but loved the idea of this theme leading into Mom's Day. A new dawn tears open another sleepless night.  A quiet house sleeps while her silhouette quietly slips from bed to begin the

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-53795211514731734202011-04-22T09:17:00.000-07:002011-04-22T12:54:27.710-07:00

What my nightstand says about me: I am seeking answers in politics and sourdough, I like aesthetics and use my alarm clock only to know the times I wake in the middle of the night. I have a theory.  Your nightstand, and what you keep on it, speaks volumes about who you are and where you are in life.   Some people have books.  These people generally like to calm their mind before bed by

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-79438495107323450702011-04-19T18:18:00.000-07:002011-04-19T18:18:39.693-07:00

Christian loves bugs.  And snails.  He loves to step on them both. Today, when he found two unsuspecting snails, he promptly smashed them with his foot.  He giggled like a madman as he did so. Jonathan (almost 19 months old) ran up, squatted down to get a good look and then picked up the remnants of the snail and ATE IT. And this is why I'm completely traumatized today.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-59574835109952965192011-04-18T21:34:00.000-07:002011-04-18T21:34:17.423-07:00

  "Holy moly crackamole!" _____________________________________________________________ "Dad, where'd you get that head?""My mom and dad.""No dad, you are wrong.  You got it from GOD."____________________________________________________________ "Dad, there's a catepillar on your eye, let me get it."::POKE::"Wait dad, now there are ants in your eyes and nose, let me get them..."_________________

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-28804667486562653392011-04-08T00:41:00.000-07:002011-04-08T00:41:21.651-07:00

 As you may or may not remember, by happenstance I discovered this little hummingbird's nest last month. Every day I'd watch the little mommy sit patiently on her nest.  All day.  Every day.  She was so patient.  I never saw the eggs, so I was surprised when I saw the two little beaks sticking up one morning. They were so stinking cute.  All they did was sit there, never making a peep.  That

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-7744399252626620442011-04-06T16:33:00.000-07:002011-04-06T16:33:17.629-07:00

Clouds neatly swept away as the brooms strain.  Two new lives break forth.  Quiet. Vulnerable. Safe. New. Green trickles down branches on the same path the rain drops from days previous had foraged. Green shoots stretch out their arms to touch the sky.  The meeting between green and sky promise to collide in colors unimaginable. Silken thread.  Body dangling. Masterpiece yet to come.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-18386024450855735552011-04-04T22:10:00.000-07:002011-04-04T22:10:03.318-07:00

We still do our Fun Friday activities.  Sometimes we go visit friends, have a picnic or go to the park.  Sometimes, we.... Pack all our belongings into a shopping cart and run around.  (I hope this is just a phase and not a lifelong ambition.) Have costume days. Race in said costumes. Make silly faces. Become super heroes for the day. Use packing material to become a potato. Fridays

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-51299561515185916502011-03-31T23:19:00.000-07:002011-03-31T23:19:14.837-07:00

Lately, I've been having moments of "I wish I could just freeze time."  This is just a short list of these moments. The bright smile and peek-a-boo game between crib slats in the morning. The sweet child-smell of their skin. Christianisms. Tickle monster time. The way my 18 month old runs, wobbly and smiley. The cuddle song and whispers "When this song is over, can you snuggle for one more

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-15714446304840131202011-03-31T08:37:00.000-07:002011-03-31T08:37:44.548-07:00

Brothers.... They stay in pj's all day and curse the rain together. They race, and sometimes pull on one another's tail / stinger. Make bathtime so much more fun. Wrestle. Try to distract mom when the other is getting into trouble. Make some pretty impressive messes when they combine forces. Educate together. Share some of the sweetest of moments. Will pull the wagon for each other when

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-23378549495383286972011-03-30T08:58:00.000-07:002011-03-30T09:13:52.824-07:00

I can hardly believe that my little sunshine boy is a year and a half old.  When Christian was this age, I had a baby in my belly (Jon). Jonathan is so very happy.  He's a smiley boy, defaulting with a grin or silly giggle before anything else.  He loves to eat, and had a near accident when he climbed onto the front of his high chair and pulled it over (I caught it just before it landed on

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-11163456831924038652011-03-29T20:32:00.000-07:002011-03-29T20:32:18.476-07:00

I've slipped, fallen, and have had a heck of a time standing back up. It all started with four molars.  Jonathan has been cutting them for 3 months.  His sleep patterns have reflected this.  Christian has had growth spurts in which his legs ache in the middle of the night.  He also has bad dreams.  I sleep little these days.  And I slip. Personal challenges in life, ministry and family have all

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-64244277381388025022011-03-23T13:23:00.000-07:002011-03-23T13:23:44.442-07:00

Unforgotten bulbs, poking their head through hard ground. Bees working hard; doing their part to bring life of their own. Color whispered into being in planters, on trees and shrubs. Songs of birds intermingle with that of a windchime as a breeze gently orchestrates them both. Orange blossoms consume.  Gardenias perfume. Toddler belly-laughs resonating throughout the rooms. The dark of

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-44100033656829115202011-03-18T09:06:00.000-07:002011-03-18T09:06:12.420-07:00

(After wrestling and rough-housing with my boys) Christian: "Mom, you're tore up from the floor up." (I took a look in a mirror, and heartily agreed.) ________________________________ (Hubby told us he was leaving for a run.) Christian: "Dad, that's a good idea, why don't you go get out all of your energy." ________________________________ Christian: "Mom, you're my favorite buddy.  Yeah,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-24118716496852413072011-03-16T22:34:00.000-07:002011-03-17T09:14:32.599-07:00

Across the ocean the earth shook at a magnitude of 9.0.  I stood at my television - still.  Paralyzed. After the earth shook the chaos, the wall of water washed over a world.  Lives lost.  Homes splintered into nothingness.  Topography forever changed.  Across the Pacific I mop my floor, water disappearing in minutes, leaving behind clean, order, things the way they should be. After the shaking

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-58454853771234473352011-03-15T17:11:00.000-07:002011-03-17T09:22:07.433-07:00

After living in apartments for close to 10 years, the first thing I wanted to do when we moved into our home was PAINT walls.  I was also postpartum, having given birth only weeks prior to our move.   Don't do this. I painted the walls a medium, flat blue.  I painted the baseboards brown.  It took me two days, with a screaming baby.  I don't know if it was the hormones or the lack of sleep, but I

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-28125866124077387472011-03-11T21:35:00.000-08:002011-03-15T17:18:40.164-07:00

Spring is quickly approaching.  As it whispers its presence in the warm days, blue skies and budding flowers, I have found that the Spring cleaning bug is buzzing around the house. The first project tackled was a refreshing and sprucing up of our guest room.  I will explain more in a separate post, but wanted to share my most current art project. I began by going to a Repurpose store that

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-28077194834716830602011-03-10T13:38:00.000-08:002011-03-10T13:38:21.555-08:00

Christian: "Mom, what do you smell like?" Me: "Christian, coffee.  I smell like coffee." Christian: "Whew.  I don't care at all for that smell." ___________________ (Pushing chair between his grandma and me.) Me: "Christian, why are you doing that...right there?" Christian: "Because mom, I want to be all up in it! Aaalll up in it." ___________________ (After I had been multi-tasking and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-88113112383401569492011-03-06T21:28:00.000-08:002011-03-06T21:28:45.199-08:00

It has been a while since I've had a "baking day".  I've simply been doing my loaf baking, snack making, etc. as needed.  However, this week everything was needed at the same time, so I pulled out the apron, warmed up the oven and did my best to work out my mixer. Left to right: Sourdough starter, caramel corn, raisin bread and two loaves sandwich bread I am sad to say that I have killed more

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-89027900517552116442011-03-03T13:47:00.000-08:002011-03-03T13:47:48.685-08:00

Boy, did I marry well.  I had no idea, after dating for 2 1/2 years, a 13 month engagement, and 6 years and counting of marriage that I'd fall so hard for my husband with each passing day. He is a Godly leader.  He is rational and strong.  He lovingly corrects me when I need correcting...once a year or so. He endures the arrows of the Hurt.  He wraps his arms and heart around the Lost.  He

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-78130488100887024142011-03-02T22:01:00.001-08:002011-04-11T15:08:04.502-07:00

Pretty ball of yarn, unraveled, tangled, impossible.  Angry, confused, lonely, lost.  Hurt and hurtful. Phone call.  Engaged, married in weeks.  Future family member, yet stranger. 18 year old stranger. Phone call.  Girl entombed in toxic relationship.  Needs relief.  Needs words.  Needs guidance.  18 year old less-stranger. Details of nuptials vary by day.  Words manipulated.  First

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-66506167526706144372011-03-02T07:50:00.000-08:002011-03-02T07:50:42.795-08:00

Children in the midst of an afternoon slumber, I slipped out for an adventure, armed only with my camera.I sought the new Spring blossoms.  The buds of new life.  The beauty in the dead.   I found a hummingbird.  A hummingbird with which I could relate. If you weren't looking for the sweet little nest, you'd never see it. I failed to see her as I explored with my lens.  I was unsuspecting,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-84408838940312103532011-03-01T20:41:00.000-08:002011-03-01T20:41:02.291-08:00

 Sweet boy, book in hand...  Stories of a curious monkey and adventurous Bible tales cuddle-read...  Sometimes read from the strong branches of the Daddy-Tree... Prayers of thanksgiving sweetly whispered... A snuggle song fills the air, cuddles amidst plush friends, mommy kisses, eskimo kisses, butterfly kisses, giggles, good-night. Sleep tight.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-49810569700933942842011-03-01T09:17:00.000-08:002011-03-01T09:17:36.270-08:00

I've made a cake or two in my day.  When making the wedding cakes recently, I decided to share a cake baker's secret to keeping your cakes from sticking. First, cut a paper towel (or parchment paper) to the size of the bottom of your cake pan.  Ensure that it fits just right (if it is too big and lifts at the edge, it could effect your cake shape later).  Next grease the *bottom only* of the

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-60430717512726352722011-03-01T09:01:00.000-08:002011-03-01T09:01:21.946-08:00

Me: "I'm going to miss your daddy when he goes away this weekend." Christian: "Don't worry, mom, I'll take care of you." ________________________________________ (Eating breakfast the first day after Danny leaves for his trip)  Christian: "Hey mom, where's your husband?" ________________________________________ Christian: "Mom, am I going to have another brother?"  Me: "Uh, NO, why?"

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-1099079840779603952011-02-26T08:23:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:30:57.308-08:00

Leaning over crib ledge, hand on babe, sleepless pain through veins.  Sleep eludes me yet again.  As I slip into the kitchen, the serenade of window chimes dances through the window to fill the quieted kitchen with music as my hands find warmth in welcome coffee.  I pause.  His presence is known, even though my back is to him.  He envelopes me with his strong arms, I close my eyes and become lost

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-4774949709171712112011-02-25T10:02:00.000-08:002011-02-26T15:07:39.925-08:00

"Joy is the realest reality, the fullest life, and joy is always given, never grasped. God gives gifts and I give thanks and I unwrap the gift given: joy."  One Thousand Gifts  A few weeks ago, I opened my mailbox to find One Thousand Gifts from a dear friend and mentor, Rhonda Kane.  She thought I might glean something from reading the beautifully landscaped contents of this book.  I didn't

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-44748513075808013542011-02-24T12:53:00.000-08:002011-02-24T12:53:44.724-08:00

Continuing with the concept of working with what we have, I thought I'd give you a little glimpse into my pantry.  I buy a lot of bulk items, so when I come home I have to make sure to store my goodies in a way that will keep them fresh.  As my plasticware has been next to destroyed by my boys, I've begun to save glass jars from various items. They aren't as orderly and pretty as items you'd pay

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-91292927788371916722011-02-23T22:21:00.000-08:002011-03-03T13:30:46.967-08:00

Great grandmother's flower pattered china intermingles with a sleek modern set. Furniture undented, unscratched; not a toy to be found.  Mirrored wood, no finger prints to buff out.  Candles and books at knee level.  A grown up retreat in a preschool world. Guests uninvited find comfort, a retreat from the child-mess.  The adults of the home find uninterrupted conversations, distractions out

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-88125152312752504232011-02-23T08:12:00.000-08:002011-02-23T08:12:45.729-08:00

My boys.  They move fast.  Quiet almost always means trouble, and I do my best to stay on top of them to avoid...well...messes and trouble that would boggle your mind. However, recently, while I was finishing the breakfast dishes, I heard laughter (a sign trouble is lurking...second only to eerie quiet), a smash, and "JOOONNNN...NOOO!"  I grab the closest towel to dry my hands and my 3 year old

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-25479724777068919062011-02-22T19:42:00.000-08:002011-02-22T19:42:49.235-08:00

Mary Astell was an early feminist.  She believed in the intellectual equality of men and women, and felt that marriage was essentially demeaning to women.  Not completely unlike an underlying sentiment of today.  Is that not the premise for complaining about your spouse?  You think you are being demeaned by them.  You think you are better than them.  I find Astell's choice of words quite

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-20914663764913692972011-02-21T22:12:00.000-08:002011-02-21T22:12:55.156-08:00

The Valentine I made for my man This year I was especially excited about Valentine's day.  Perhaps it was because Christian and I started making Valentine's cards in January.  Perhaps it was because Jessica helped me make a special gift for my hubby that I saved to give him on Valentine's day.  Perhaps it was because this was our tenth Valentine's day together (though I didn't realize that

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-67783817987763008782011-02-20T22:14:00.000-08:002011-02-20T22:14:26.784-08:00

"For she who marries purely to do good, to educate souls for heaven, who can be so truly mortified as to lay aside her own will and desires, to pay such an entire submission for life, to one whom she cannot be sure will always deserve it, does certainly perform a more heroic action than all the famous masculine heroes can boast of, she suffers a continual martyrdom to bring glory to God, and

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-8228852014507853322011-02-20T22:04:00.000-08:002011-02-20T22:04:07.738-08:00

....Work with what you have. My mom was a Missionary Kid, and grew up in Papua New Guinea.  They lived on next to nothing, and as a result, she always had many wonderful ways to save money in the kitchen as I grew up.   I didn't realize how invaluable those lessons were, until now. One of my favorite tips that I use frequently is to save the butter wrappers.  I usually refold them and keep them

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-64125806418775633562011-02-18T07:56:00.000-08:002011-02-26T15:08:37.719-08:00

Dishes piled high.  Grout stained 1000 times darker than it ought to be.  Bills unpaid.  Dust settled on shelves cleaned yesterday.  Children screaming at each other.  Starving husband.  Cake and buttercream settled on hips and thighs.  Disappointment in daily failures.  Inferiority complex encompassed. If we were to focus solely on our failures, we'd never get out of bed.  Why would you peel

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-26156150510546115152011-02-16T21:23:00.000-08:002011-02-16T21:23:08.668-08:00

The kitchen is a mighty inspiring place. 1.   Patience pays off.  Sugar cookies and homemade bread are proof. 2.   Even with the sweetest intentions, life can be messy.  Hence my kitchen disaster when I baked cakes last week. 3.   Messes can make for fun memories.  The first time I baked with Christian. 4.   A dash of a sense of humor goes a long way.  Especially when you accidentally lift

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-58827483148252285612011-02-13T18:40:00.000-08:002011-02-13T18:40:03.999-08:00

Christian and I have been making Valentine's cards for friends for a couple of weeks now.  We sent them out a few days ago, and my desire was to include a cute picture of the boys with a few of the cards.  Well, at least I had good intentions. It didn't help that Jonathan has not been feeling well.  When it all came down to it, though, we did get this:  I hope you enjoy your Valentine's Day!

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-72258310129761072842011-02-13T08:11:00.000-08:002011-02-13T08:11:20.411-08:00

The Inspiration Over a month ago, I was approached by a former church member / blog reader about her upcoming wedding.  Knowing I occasionally make cakes, she was curious as to whether or not I'd be interested in doing her wedding cakes, with the inspiration of "simple cakes, in abundance".  With my word for the year "Challenge", I enthusiastically took the opportunity! Knowing that I'd have to

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-6790070326630109472011-02-11T09:36:00.000-08:002011-02-11T13:44:04.957-08:00

Photo courtesy of the AP I'd like to take a moment to get slightly political, today.  If you know me, you'd know politics are a passion of mine, but I generally do not comment politically on my blog for a number of reasons.  As hubby said recently, "You aren't allowed to get into politics professionally as long as I am in the pastorate; there needs to be a separation between church and state."

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-86389645998506926672011-02-10T23:32:00.000-08:002011-02-10T23:32:41.911-08:00

I am preparing cakes for a wedding on Saturday.  As I have a total of six cakes to bake, including a sheet cake, I have been baking for two days now, two cakes per day.  Each cake needs ample time and attention.  So do my boys.   Taking a bake-break to dance with my boy. The boys have been playing, fighting, and playing outside.  We've had reading hours.  We've also had dance parties to wiggle

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-7917496712410533242011-02-09T08:07:00.000-08:002011-02-09T08:07:50.345-08:00

Even for 30 seconds.  Even when you put the big rocking horse in front of the drawers / cabinet and put up all off-limits things.  In our house, momentary silence means trouble.  And big messes. (Believe it or not, this is not a very big deal.  It is when the bookshelves are emptied of books and all of the puzzles are dumped out that I want to cry inside.) Enjoy your moments of silence!  (Heaven

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-1450664118547774662011-02-08T16:54:00.000-08:002011-02-08T16:54:35.628-08:00

Extraordinary in the ordinary. My "To Do" list began at Walmart (don't they all?!).  Frustrated that half of what I need was not there, I had white knuckles as I steered my cart around the Oblivious.  I stood in line listening to a colorful conversation and praying my son fails to repeat the words fluttering in our ears.  Suddenly I look up and see a lovely church member and her son came in. 

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-3344979184119757522011-02-07T23:15:00.000-08:002011-02-07T23:15:40.906-08:00

The phone rings.  You answer it, pit in stomach, and your heart breaks.  The words on the other end of the phone were lethal.  They were tortuous.  They left you unable to eat, unable to sleep, unable to move.  Your life is forever changed. _______ You and your spouse dance a tango of power and pain.  Suddenly, the dance ends.  Legs are broken. _______ Your child, helpless and innocent is

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-43151676262428990842011-02-04T13:11:00.000-08:002011-02-04T13:11:23.097-08:00

Christian:  "Mom, mom, MOOOM!  Can you watch me and play with me??" Me:  "Christian, I have to finish making dinner.  But here's Jonathan.  I had him just so you would have someone to play with while I make dinner." Christian: "THANK YOU mom!  Thank you so much!  That was so nice of you!  I appreciate that!" _______ Me: "Christian, it looks like you have a little dry patch on your hand."

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-76823993720731442922011-02-03T13:17:00.000-08:002011-02-03T13:17:50.543-08:00

It's a funny thing.  My weekly bread-making is quite the conversation starter of late.  People ask many questions, so I figured I would walk you through the process. The Stars of the Show From left to right: vegetable oil, butter, Hot Roll Mix (a mix I make ahead), Red Star Active Dry Yeast, two room temperature eggs, big-honkin'-bowl and measuring cup. 1.  Start by adding two tablespoons of

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-66663875732673144962011-02-03T07:46:00.000-08:002011-02-03T07:46:39.213-08:00

As I've mentioned a few thousand times, I love making whole chicken for countless reasons.  I love the process, and learning different techniques to create a moist, tender bird is icing on the cake (or crispy skin on the chicken). A few weeks ago I was listening to my favorite weekend radio show, Melinda Lee, and she mentioned Blasted Chicken.  In short, you put a 3 1/2 lb chicken (washed,

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-77256097598819788522011-02-02T20:49:00.000-08:002011-02-02T20:49:01.072-08:00

As you know, I have been on a quest to use natural ingredients to clean. I am doing so primarily to save money (salt / vinegar / baking soda in bulk is much cheaper per ounce than cleaning supplies), but the whole "green" side and "its better for your family's health" aspect are nice perks. I read an article a while back about using Kosher Salt as an abrasive cleaner. You can actually use a lemon

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-29672063717672736722011-01-31T15:16:00.000-08:002011-01-31T15:16:59.607-08:00

When I went to Montana in December, my generous mother bought me something I never thought I'd return to after the early '90's: leggings.  Don't get me wrong, they are cute on everyone else, but I felt naked when I put them on.  Nevertheless, I fell in love with the outfit she bought me, and when she promised me boots, I was sold.  I went online, bought a cute pair from Target.com and eagerly

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-62576363421832743782011-01-31T07:52:00.000-08:002011-02-26T15:12:21.318-08:00

Rosemary.  I love rosemary.  As much as I love it, I recognize that it can easily take over a garden if not  controlled, so I haven't planted it.  Well, that, and my neighbor has it.  She "shares" her rosemary with me, and I am forever grateful.  I am grateful that I am able to use it in my recipes, and that my scavenger boys can enjoy it without my concern that it might hurt them. We fill our

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-31200459414375118282011-01-30T20:51:00.001-08:002011-01-30T20:56:14.957-08:00

My dear little Jonathan just figured out that he can climb into the rocking chair in his room. Over and over he would climb in, grinning ear to ear and laughing once sitting (and rocking) like a big boy. But when it came time to climb down, instead of the way he normally climbs down from high up places, he would fall face first. Over, and over, and over again. Isn't this how we can be? So

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-10344534166614241112011-01-27T23:33:00.000-08:002011-01-30T20:43:22.513-08:00

My 15 month old recently was playing with a light in the ground that he has been repeatedly told not to touch.  As I noticed him do this, with my momma voice asked, "Jonathan Augustine, what do you think you are doing?!"  He immediately ran behind the bushes close by and peeked out.  He knew he was doing wrong, but thought he could hide from his consequences. What is this, Genesis?! Just further

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-57051647823896006322011-01-26T23:07:00.000-08:002011-01-26T23:07:41.372-08:00

I am still baking my own bread.  Two loaves per week. I'm still eating my baby carrots and healthy foods, trying to finish up my marathon of weight loss. My hubby is working long days of late, but he comes home for meals and sometimes gets to have wonderful moments of cuddles and wrestling with his boys. I am still cleaning up entire emptied bookcases of toys and books.  Weekly.  Daily. 

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-80304896075888583662011-01-26T22:48:00.000-08:002011-01-26T22:48:55.101-08:00

After I wrote my post about "Piles", I decided it time to eliminate a few piles in my kitchen.  And so, I grabbed my hidden pile of 20 Cooking Light and Food & Wine magazines, and got to work. It took 4 days, a good pair of scissors and a bit of glue, but I went through each magazine in a painstaking fashion.  I wanted to make sure I didn't miss any techniques, recipes, etc. that had

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-5693842835901615912011-01-25T08:33:00.000-08:002011-01-25T08:33:45.632-08:00

On a beautiful day, wearing beautiful clothing, a bride and groom exchange a little gold ring, a few promises, and their lives are forever changed.  At that moment, the gravity and weight of the moment generally isn't fully realized.  If it was, it might be a day wrought with anxiety rather than a day filled with celebration. In the years to come, the promises that accompanied by that ring are

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-82784029516209668942011-01-22T13:43:00.000-08:002011-01-22T13:43:04.579-08:00

Matthew 12:36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. Recently I preserved lemons.  I didn't know that I had microscopic cuts on my hands until the mixture of lemon juice and kosher salt seeped into every crevice of my skin.  Suddenly, all I could focus on was the pain. Isn't it interesting how words can be much the same

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-63372769900968142362011-01-21T14:57:00.000-08:002011-02-26T19:53:50.936-08:00

United States Post Office, Nuevo, California Today's first errand was quite typical.  We made a quick stop to my favorite small-town post office.  Discussed how big my 15 month old was getting with our favorite postal worker, Cari, and headed out. Once outside, we headed straight for the flagpole to pledge allegiance to the flag.  I have been doing this with Christian for well over a year

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-4074588139114839392011-01-21T09:26:00.000-08:002011-01-21T09:26:07.929-08:00

Time for comic relief. Yesterday: Christian: (Riding his bike) "Mom, I'm going to Home Depot now. See you later.  Love you, bye!" Me:  "Ok, drive safe." Christian: (Stopping at the grass) "Oh shoot, I forgot my wallet.  Ahhhh shooot." ______ Christian: "Dad!  Daddy! Dad!" Me:  "Christian, I'm your mom.  Dad is at work." Christian: "I know.  I wish you were my dad.  He is the nicest." _______

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-50346378001155146152011-01-20T09:44:00.000-08:002011-01-20T09:44:53.137-08:00

I despise "piles".  You know what I'm talking about.  Those various areas in and around the kitchen / office / house where things are thrown to rest "in the interim".  Those piles that rest longer than "in the interim", as they continue to collect miscellaneous, homeless objects.  Those piles that eventually grow into a giant mess-monster that could eat a small child and cause grown men to cry.

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-21206410246969344722011-01-18T20:42:00.000-08:002011-01-19T19:09:24.324-08:00

My hubby has been out of town.  He is expected to be home any minute, and I've been setting the scene for him.  My dear husband likes a tidy living space, so after kiddo bedtime, I busted a move doing dishes, buffing the counters and Rainbowing the floor.  I lit candles, changed into pretty pj's (rather than the ol' comfy sweats I've been sporting) and put on perfume.  I want my husband to come

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8377099406413022918.post-31077789979343809672011-01-18T17:51:00.000-08:002011-01-18T17:57:11.848-08:00

Recently I bought over 2 lbs of mushrooms at Costco.  I had plans for half of that, and figured that between salads, an innovative stuffed chicken recipe, and the like, I'd use them all up.  That's what I thought anyway.With 1/2 lb of mushrooms left, I got creative.  I figured that if I made bite sized items, I could freeze them and use them as appetizers later.  (My sneaky way of getting around

Jolene Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12822865945688183313noreply@blogger.com2