Once all that was done I then sat and enjoyed the beauty that surrounded me.
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
Saturday, May 31, 2014
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By:
Anita
Beautiful Thing ~ week # 22
This week with the warmer weather finally arriving, found me outside, mowing lawn, planting flowers, weeding through my perennials, this pretty little perennial is an Anemome
which is an early-spring flower that, according Google is also called a “wood anemone, windflower, thimbleweed, or smell fox”, it grows 2 - 6 in tall and continues to spread a little more each year, I was also cleaning my windows, planting the garden and of course driving tractor.
Once all that was done I then sat and enjoyed the beauty that surrounded me.
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
Once all that was done I then sat and enjoyed the beauty that surrounded me.
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
Thursday, May 29, 2014
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By:
Anita
JAKE
These days, I find myself quite often enjoying my morning cup of tea sitting outside on the deck. Or in the afternoon as the sun makes its way around the house, I’ll find myself on the front porch, and then of course there is also sitting under the shade of the apple tree. It really doesn’t matter where I am sitting and it doesn’t matter what time of day it is, I am quite often visited by this little guy…
When I first hear the loud buzz, I figure it’s just another one of the many bees we have out here on the farm, but no, it’s Jake, my tiny little humming bird friend.
I love watching him as he zips from flower to flower sipping nectar, reminding me to take each day as it comes... I doubt he ever worries about tomorrow, what he'll do or where he'll eat. He simply trusts as he gets up each day there will be more flowers to find. Reminding me “To not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows {hummindbirds}.” Matthew 10:31 {New International Version {NIV}}
As you enjoy these days, how are you reminded of God's great care for you?
Blessings
I love watching him as he zips from flower to flower sipping nectar, reminding me to take each day as it comes... I doubt he ever worries about tomorrow, what he'll do or where he'll eat. He simply trusts as he gets up each day there will be more flowers to find. Reminding me “To not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows {hummindbirds}.” Matthew 10:31 {New International Version {NIV}}
As you enjoy these days, how are you reminded of God's great care for you?
Blessings
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
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By:
Anita
Sometimes
How do you react when things go wrong?
When you receive bad news?
When bad things happen?
Of course, this is the point where I would like to say something holy. Talk about my experiences of leaning into God, remaining in peace throughout the storms, relying on His strength when things have got tough. And yes, there are times when I can honestly say this to be true in my life.
But…
I have to admit that often I react badly.
I struggle.
Flounder.
Get angry.
Get anxious.
Fail to turn to God.
To rely on Him.
To seek His comfort and peace.
And complain about the fact that it feels like God is gone.
God’s heart is that we know His presence always.
Even in the middle of hard times.
Especially
in the middle of hard times.
God wants us to turn to Him when we go through trials. Not suffer alone.
Sometimes it feels like God is gone. In the middle of defeat. When things seem lost.
Blessings
When you receive bad news?
When bad things happen?
Of course, this is the point where I would like to say something holy. Talk about my experiences of leaning into God, remaining in peace throughout the storms, relying on His strength when things have got tough. And yes, there are times when I can honestly say this to be true in my life.
I have to admit that often I react badly.
I struggle.
Flounder.
Get angry.
Get anxious.
Fail to turn to God.
To rely on Him.
To seek His comfort and peace.
And complain about the fact that it feels like God is gone.
God’s heart is that we know His presence always.
Even in the middle of hard times.
Especially
in the middle of hard times.
God wants us to turn to Him when we go through trials. Not suffer alone.
Sometimes it feels like God is gone. In the middle of defeat. When things seem lost.
And yet…
God is present. And He is keeping His promises.
Monday, May 26, 2014
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By:
Anita
mhmm monday
After a long hard day what sounds amazing to you? How about the most delicious food combination ever ~ peanut butter and chocolate.
Do you remember that commercial from the 80's? A jar of peanut butter and a giant chocolate candy bar sticking out. “You stuck your chocolate in my peanut butter…”
My favourite candy ever are the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. I could eat them everyday and be completely happy. So when I found this website making these, I knew this was something I’d want to try!
Peanut Butter Cup Delight Cocktail
1 ounce Kahlua (coffee liqueur)
1 ounce Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
1/2 ounce Bacardi white rum
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3 ounces of cream or milk
chocolate syrup for garnish
handful of ice
In a martini shaker; combine the alcohols and the peanut butter, stir until it the peanut butter is dissolved into the alcohols. Add cream and ice to the peanut butter mixture and shake to chill and combine.
Prepare a martini glass by pouring a little chocolate in the bottom, decorate as you wish. Pour Peanut Butter Cup Delight Cocktail through strainer and serve.
Enjoy!
It’s like a peanut butter cup in a glass. Absolutely incredible!
Blessings
Do you remember that commercial from the 80's? A jar of peanut butter and a giant chocolate candy bar sticking out. “You stuck your chocolate in my peanut butter…”
Peanut Butter Cup Delight Cocktail
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces Creme de Cacao1 ounce Kahlua (coffee liqueur)
1 ounce Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
1/2 ounce Bacardi white rum
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3 ounces of cream or milk
chocolate syrup for garnish
handful of ice
In a martini shaker; combine the alcohols and the peanut butter, stir until it the peanut butter is dissolved into the alcohols. Add cream and ice to the peanut butter mixture and shake to chill and combine.
Prepare a martini glass by pouring a little chocolate in the bottom, decorate as you wish. Pour Peanut Butter Cup Delight Cocktail through strainer and serve.
Enjoy!
It’s like a peanut butter cup in a glass. Absolutely incredible!
Blessings
Sunday, May 25, 2014
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By:
Anita
Saturday, May 24, 2014
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By:
Anita
Beautiful Thing ~ week # 21
After spending a wonderful mini-vacation at my sister’s with my mom and my girl, I realized that I need a plan to be refreshed. Not just once, but on an ongoing basis.
We all have the tendancy to keep pushing ourselves or to continue with all that needs to be done and we forget that we need to schedule in time to slow down and find things that truly refresh our souls. We are quick to settle for what feels good in the moment but in the end leaves us feeling empty.
I have learned that taking care of myself is the most important thing I can do. To often we are running around doing this, that and the other thing that we forget what it truly important.
As for me, if I want to continue serving faithfully, that means taking a little respite along the way. Otherwise I burn out. Even Jesus frequently took time away from His ministry to be alone.
I want this to be true of me… “{S}He is like a tree firmly planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever {s}he does, {s}he prospers. Psalm 1:3 {New American Standard Bible {NASB}}
You need to find what works for you. Whether it’s a simple weekend away with family or friends, a day at a spa, a quiet devotional time with a special tea blend . You come up with your plan and then make it happen.
My challenge to you: Think about how you can plan for some refreshment in your day, or your week, or even your month and then “come apart before you come apart” and see what you can do to make it happen!
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
We all have the tendancy to keep pushing ourselves or to continue with all that needs to be done and we forget that we need to schedule in time to slow down and find things that truly refresh our souls. We are quick to settle for what feels good in the moment but in the end leaves us feeling empty.
I have learned that taking care of myself is the most important thing I can do. To often we are running around doing this, that and the other thing that we forget what it truly important.
I want this to be true of me… “{S}He is like a tree firmly planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever {s}he does, {s}he prospers. Psalm 1:3 {New American Standard Bible {NASB}}
You need to find what works for you. Whether it’s a simple weekend away with family or friends, a day at a spa, a quiet devotional time with a special tea blend . You come up with your plan and then make it happen.
My challenge to you: Think about how you can plan for some refreshment in your day, or your week, or even your month and then “come apart before you come apart” and see what you can do to make it happen!
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
Thursday, May 22, 2014
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By:
Anita
Finale
Last night we invited our friends Heather & Deane over along with Krystle & Gerard to watch the season finale of Survivor.
You've heard of it, I'm sure... it’s the reality based tv-show with the tag line “Out-wit, Outlast & Outplay” with lots of changes , or “twists” to keep the players on their toes, to keep viewers hooked and to keep it as exciting “game” show as possible. With tribal switches, starting the game with more than two tribes, using “Exile island”, having hidden immunity idols and “Redemption Island”, this is perhaps one of my favourite shows. Even though it’s full of liars, cheaters, and backstabbers {oh my!} , I will admit I am hooked after having watched 17 of the 28 seasons.
As we welcomed our guests to the house, I really began to feel self-conscience of this old country farm-house with its uneven floors, low doorways, crooked stairs and the lack of updated renovations. But as my friend oohed and aahed over the enormous country kitchen, the cozyness of the family room and the size of the yard, I began to feel a little guilty that what we have I take for granted.
Thank you dear friend for giving me the fresh perspective needed to truly appreciate what it is we have.
Blessings
As we welcomed our guests to the house, I really began to feel self-conscience of this old country farm-house with its uneven floors, low doorways, crooked stairs and the lack of updated renovations. But as my friend oohed and aahed over the enormous country kitchen, the cozyness of the family room and the size of the yard, I began to feel a little guilty that what we have I take for granted.
Thank you dear friend for giving me the fresh perspective needed to truly appreciate what it is we have.
Blessings
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
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By:
Anita
His Timing
My eyes brimmed with tears that threatened to overflow, I took deep breaths and willed away the tears, as I thought back over my last few weeks. Several conflicts had gone unresolved, and PMS had set me on a roller-coaster ride headed for disaster.
What’s a girl to do?
Do you ever find yourself wishing for a different reality? I will admit that I have spent time over the last couple of weeks dwelling on realities other than my own. The more I thought about it, the more anxious and depressed I got. And, if I’m not careful, dwelling on the seemingly perfect lives of others can easily send me into a deep, dark, hole. Oh, I didn’t go there. I could have. Or maybe I did and I just don’t want to admit it.
Exhaustion had me on the couch spending extended time “mindlessly watching the idiot box”, or sitting at the computer. I love connecting with friends and family through Facebook, or through blogging, but when I am feeling low and have the wrong perspective of my own life, looking at the seemingly perfect lives of others can and has thrown me for a loop. A blogger shared pictures of her beautiful new home, and I found myself desiring a bigger house. Another shared about the birthday surprise her husband went all out and did for her, and I found myself longing for the romance that existed in my marriage long ago. Perfect recipes photographed, life lived full right before my eyes and I wonder why I seem to be stuck in the mundane.
My house will never sparkle, and usually I’m cool with that. I really love mystery fiction books and detective shows on TV, and I’m not afraid to admit it. I’m a list-maker who still tries a bit too hard to make people happy, but I’m also sarcastic and a little selfish. I like dogs but not cats, and I will do just about anything to get out of shopping.
I’m learning to know who I am.
Yet, sometimes . . . I wish I were the kind of girl who looks cute in prairie skirts and cowboy boots. Or the kind of girl who sits with her husband and watches hockey, or golf, or baseball, or football, or… any sport. I wish I cared enough about my house to have seasonal decorations. Or flowerbeds. Or corners without cobwebs.
If I let myself, I could wish I were any kind of girl but the kind I am.
But, that would be a shame. For years my identity was wrapped up in what I thought other people thought about me. As I’ve walked through this life, God has continued to reveal who He wants me. I certainly don’t claim to do it perfectly! Not by a long shot. But as I’ve continued to search out who God says I am, I’m much less focused on what I’ve believed about myself or what others have said about me.
I’m learning to see beauty in my brokenness. Sometimes, I feel guilty for feeling so broken. He promises to make ALL things beautiful….in HIS time. Not mine. I can’t always see the beauty. I have to look hard, digging deep beneath everything and reaching for what I know to be true.
God knows that about me. So ~ in His relentless grace ~ He continues to repeat one message into my insecurity-prone heart:
“I didn’t ask you to be her. I asked you to be you.”
I want to be thankful for this life that God has so graciously blessed me with and embrace my own reality. I am alive. I do have a loving and committed husband who works hard to provide for us. I have three beautiful children and a son-in-law who are all hard working and independent adults. I really should be more thankful.
So the real question here is what is it that am I chasing after?
What does your reality look like today my friend? Will you offer up thanksgiving to the Lord today for all that He has given to you?
Blessings
What’s a girl to do?
Do you ever find yourself wishing for a different reality? I will admit that I have spent time over the last couple of weeks dwelling on realities other than my own. The more I thought about it, the more anxious and depressed I got. And, if I’m not careful, dwelling on the seemingly perfect lives of others can easily send me into a deep, dark, hole. Oh, I didn’t go there. I could have. Or maybe I did and I just don’t want to admit it.
Exhaustion had me on the couch spending extended time “mindlessly watching the idiot box”, or sitting at the computer. I love connecting with friends and family through Facebook, or through blogging, but when I am feeling low and have the wrong perspective of my own life, looking at the seemingly perfect lives of others can and has thrown me for a loop. A blogger shared pictures of her beautiful new home, and I found myself desiring a bigger house. Another shared about the birthday surprise her husband went all out and did for her, and I found myself longing for the romance that existed in my marriage long ago. Perfect recipes photographed, life lived full right before my eyes and I wonder why I seem to be stuck in the mundane.
My house will never sparkle, and usually I’m cool with that. I really love mystery fiction books and detective shows on TV, and I’m not afraid to admit it. I’m a list-maker who still tries a bit too hard to make people happy, but I’m also sarcastic and a little selfish. I like dogs but not cats, and I will do just about anything to get out of shopping.
I’m learning to know who I am.
Yet, sometimes . . . I wish I were the kind of girl who looks cute in prairie skirts and cowboy boots. Or the kind of girl who sits with her husband and watches hockey, or golf, or baseball, or football, or… any sport. I wish I cared enough about my house to have seasonal decorations. Or flowerbeds. Or corners without cobwebs.
If I let myself, I could wish I were any kind of girl but the kind I am.
But, that would be a shame. For years my identity was wrapped up in what I thought other people thought about me. As I’ve walked through this life, God has continued to reveal who He wants me. I certainly don’t claim to do it perfectly! Not by a long shot. But as I’ve continued to search out who God says I am, I’m much less focused on what I’ve believed about myself or what others have said about me.
I’m learning to see beauty in my brokenness. Sometimes, I feel guilty for feeling so broken. He promises to make ALL things beautiful….in HIS time. Not mine. I can’t always see the beauty. I have to look hard, digging deep beneath everything and reaching for what I know to be true.
“I didn’t ask you to be her. I asked you to be you.”
I want to be thankful for this life that God has so graciously blessed me with and embrace my own reality. I am alive. I do have a loving and committed husband who works hard to provide for us. I have three beautiful children and a son-in-law who are all hard working and independent adults. I really should be more thankful.
So the real question here is what is it that am I chasing after?
What does your reality look like today my friend? Will you offer up thanksgiving to the Lord today for all that He has given to you?
Blessings
Monday, May 19, 2014
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By:
Anita
mhmm monday
A long standing tradition while we were growing up was to spend the long weekend at my Aunt & Uncles' farm, where they run their greenhouse business. My cousins, siblings & I would spend the day; playing in the barn, swimming in their pool, or taking joy-rides around the farm in “Tuffy” with my underage cousin at the wheel. My dad would spend his day moving plants from the back range up to the store front, while my mom would spend the day in the house making these…
Relief Sale Doughnuts ~ From the Mennonite Relief Sale cookbook…
Ingredients:
Dissolve 1 pkg. yeast in 1 cup warm water
1 cup mashed potatoes
1 cup lard
1 cup scalded milk
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
Syrup:
1 cup icing sugar
½ cup water
Directions:
Mix in order given and add enough flour so dough will nor stick to fingers. Let rise until double in bulk. Roll out and cut; place on trays which have some flour on and let rise again, then fry, drain, then dip in syrup while still hot.
Enjoy!
Blessings
Ingredients:
Dissolve 1 pkg. yeast in 1 cup warm water
1 cup mashed potatoes
1 cup lard
1 cup scalded milk
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
Syrup:
1 cup icing sugar
½ cup water
Directions:
Mix in order given and add enough flour so dough will nor stick to fingers. Let rise until double in bulk. Roll out and cut; place on trays which have some flour on and let rise again, then fry, drain, then dip in syrup while still hot.
Enjoy!
Blessings
Sunday, May 18, 2014
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By:
Anita
Celebration
It was his birthday yesterday… and while I don’t post a lot on here about him because he prefers to keep his life a little more private and stay in the background ~ I simply could not let the day pass by with out at least acknowledging that it was his special day.
Darcy has always been quite independent and a free-thinker. Not wanting to conform to the ways of society he takes his own path as he journeys through life. What a blessing he has been and will continue to be as he continues to gain his own independence. He has given us so many joys.....
I think back to where we were 24 years ago, bringing this little {well he was 8lbs 14 oz} boy into the world and I think to myself how quickly that time has gone by.
It's been an amazing journey together so far... I look forward to many more birthdays and years together. For the many blessings that he gives, I am blessed to have him in my life.
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Happy Birthday Darcy!!!
Blessings
Darcy has always been quite independent and a free-thinker. Not wanting to conform to the ways of society he takes his own path as he journeys through life. What a blessing he has been and will continue to be as he continues to gain his own independence. He has given us so many joys.....
I think back to where we were 24 years ago, bringing this little {well he was 8lbs 14 oz} boy into the world and I think to myself how quickly that time has gone by.
It's been an amazing journey together so far... I look forward to many more birthdays and years together. For the many blessings that he gives, I am blessed to have him in my life.
Blessings
Saturday, May 17, 2014
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By:
Anita
Beautiful Thing ~ week # 20
One day this week, as I took my cup of tea and went to sit on the deck and soak up some warm sun rays, I found these two early morning visitors.
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Thanks to all the rain we’ve been getting we’ve got quite the mini-pond at the corner of our property, creating a little respite for Mr & Mrs. Goose as they travel North … and for that I am thankful!
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
Friday, May 16, 2014
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By:
Anita
Make it count
I want my days to count for something.
Staying at home full-time I’ve come to realize if you want to be productive at home, you must be home. That’s not hard that part, I like being home. The hard part is you have to do your work. I know it’s not rocket science. I get distracted quite easily. I want to do my work and do it well!
Navigating this life can be challenging {especially if you’re directionally challenged like me}
There are many roads...
Many obstacles, a few twists and turns...
Sometimes even a dead end...
We become distracted along the way, forget where we’re heading and become diverted. Sometimes, the path in front of us even seems to disappear and we have no idea how to take even another step forwards. It’s exhausting, sometimes, and it can often feel overwhelming. We find ourselves running to and fro from activity to activity or clicking to and from site to site, in some desperate search for anything that means something.
And then…
I had an apostrophe. A genuine, bona fide apostrophe! Just like Smee in Hook.
If I want to be more intentional in my life this year; with my time, my thoughts, the words I say or post, where I spend my time and who I spend it with, then I need to make each day count.
When I don’t know which way to turn…
When I feel too weak to keep going…
When the future is hidden and uncertain…
I will fix my eyes on Jesus! because, while I may not know what the future holds, I do know the ONE who holds mine... Jeremiah 29:11 {New International Version {(NIV}} “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Blessings
Staying at home full-time I’ve come to realize if you want to be productive at home, you must be home. That’s not hard that part, I like being home. The hard part is you have to do your work. I know it’s not rocket science. I get distracted quite easily. I want to do my work and do it well!
Navigating this life can be challenging {especially if you’re directionally challenged like me}
There are many roads...
Many obstacles, a few twists and turns...
Sometimes even a dead end...
We become distracted along the way, forget where we’re heading and become diverted. Sometimes, the path in front of us even seems to disappear and we have no idea how to take even another step forwards. It’s exhausting, sometimes, and it can often feel overwhelming. We find ourselves running to and fro from activity to activity or clicking to and from site to site, in some desperate search for anything that means something.
And then…
I had an apostrophe. A genuine, bona fide apostrophe! Just like Smee in Hook.
If I want to be more intentional in my life this year; with my time, my thoughts, the words I say or post, where I spend my time and who I spend it with, then I need to make each day count.
When I don’t know which way to turn…
When I feel too weak to keep going…
When the future is hidden and uncertain…
Blessings
Monday, May 12, 2014
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By:
Anita
mhmm monday
With BBQ season in full swng here at the farm, I like to find yummy side salads to eat. From this website here's super yum side dish ...
Bacon Apple Cheddar Broccoli Slaw
Ingredients:
12 ounces broccoli slaw
2 of your favorite apples, peeled and shredded [I like Gala]
1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup honey Dijon mustard (not dipping sauce)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
salt and pepper, to taste
4 - 5 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl toss the slaw, apples, cheese and red onion together.
Add the honey mustard, mayonnaise, a few dashes of salt and pepper and toss again.
Cover with saran wrap and refrigerate at least 1/2 hour or longer - until ready to serve.
Just before serving mix in the bacon, taste and season again with salt and pepper if needed.
This cool, crunchy broccoli slaw gets a ton of flavour from juicy apples, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon and red onion dressed in a tangy honey mustard. It's ridiculously easy to throw together and makes a great side for anything you can imagine from burgers to chicken.
Enjoy!
Blessings
Bacon Apple Cheddar Broccoli Slaw
12 ounces broccoli slaw
2 of your favorite apples, peeled and shredded [I like Gala]
1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup honey Dijon mustard (not dipping sauce)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
salt and pepper, to taste
4 - 5 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl toss the slaw, apples, cheese and red onion together.
Add the honey mustard, mayonnaise, a few dashes of salt and pepper and toss again.
Cover with saran wrap and refrigerate at least 1/2 hour or longer - until ready to serve.
Just before serving mix in the bacon, taste and season again with salt and pepper if needed.
This cool, crunchy broccoli slaw gets a ton of flavour from juicy apples, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon and red onion dressed in a tangy honey mustard. It's ridiculously easy to throw together and makes a great side for anything you can imagine from burgers to chicken.
Enjoy!
Blessings
Sunday, May 11, 2014
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By:
Anita
Happy Mother's Day!
I am more than blessed to have these wonderful “kids” call me mom.
My heart is overjoyed to have been given the opportunity to have them in my life. They've taught me so many things, to love unconditionally, to stretch my faith, to test my patience, they've given me more joy than I could ever imagine, and to laugh, oh how we laugh! . It has been an amazing journey with many exciting, many frantic, many proud, many challenging, many blessed, and many unforgettable moments, which are among my favourite memories. I am very thankful to God for each one of them.
Blessings
Blessings
Saturday, May 10, 2014
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By:
Anita
Beautiful Thing ~ week # 19
As I was sitting here looking back over my week, thinking of the beautiful thing that I wanted to post, I really struggled. I had it in my head what I was planning to write, but my mind kept focusing on something else.
I met my friend Heather for tea this week at the local coffee shop and each opportunity we take to get together, I eagerly anticipate our time and the genuine display of friendship that we share. After we ordered our tea and settled into our seats, she dropped a bomb on me. She’s moving to Kirkland lake…. that’s like 8 hours away, folks. As she continued to share, all I could focus on was what I was losing.
You see, making friends as an adult has been much harder that I anticipated. I always assumed by this stage in the game I would have mastered the art of small talk and would have this uncanny ability to attract new friends.
I’m 46 years old and I still struggle to find friends. I’m not very good at it, honestly. But this past this year, I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone to intentionally meet her and get to know her, and I was wonderfully surprised when we just clicked. Our personalities were so similar that it was frightening, and yet so comfortable. There was never that awkward silence, nor was there any of the inner dialoguing for me worrying of what will she think, when I say this or even that. I could be me. And in the past several months we became very close friends. She accepted my thoughts and feelings, whether or not she totally understood them, and was quite open about sharing her heart as well. She is one of those lifetime friends. These are those special friends that come once in a lifetime. You trust them 100%. You can tell them anything and they can tell you anything.
When people enter our lives, we have no idea how long they will stay, or what impact they will make on us.
There is nothing quite like friendship is there?
When I spend time with her, I feel better ~ a better person, better about myself and better about my life. I believe that our friendship was a gift from God and one that I will always treasure.
My beautiful thing is not that she is moving and that I’ll likely never see her again, but it’s because friendship is a beautiful thing.
Blessings
I met my friend Heather for tea this week at the local coffee shop and each opportunity we take to get together, I eagerly anticipate our time and the genuine display of friendship that we share. After we ordered our tea and settled into our seats, she dropped a bomb on me. She’s moving to Kirkland lake…. that’s like 8 hours away, folks. As she continued to share, all I could focus on was what I was losing.
You see, making friends as an adult has been much harder that I anticipated. I always assumed by this stage in the game I would have mastered the art of small talk and would have this uncanny ability to attract new friends.
I’m 46 years old and I still struggle to find friends. I’m not very good at it, honestly. But this past this year, I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone to intentionally meet her and get to know her, and I was wonderfully surprised when we just clicked. Our personalities were so similar that it was frightening, and yet so comfortable. There was never that awkward silence, nor was there any of the inner dialoguing for me worrying of what will she think, when I say this or even that. I could be me. And in the past several months we became very close friends. She accepted my thoughts and feelings, whether or not she totally understood them, and was quite open about sharing her heart as well. She is one of those lifetime friends. These are those special friends that come once in a lifetime. You trust them 100%. You can tell them anything and they can tell you anything.
When people enter our lives, we have no idea how long they will stay, or what impact they will make on us.
“A friend is one that knows you as you are,
understands where you have been,
accepts what you have become, and still,
gently allows you to grow.”
~ William Shakespeare
There is nothing quite like friendship is there?
My beautiful thing is not that she is moving and that I’ll likely never see her again, but it’s because friendship is a beautiful thing.
Blessings
Friday, May 9, 2014
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By:
Anita
Mid-Life
I’ve always been one to look forward to the next stage in life. All through high school I couldn’t wait to get married and have a family to call my own. Once married, I eagerly anticipated our first child, then the second and the third all within four years. Once the kids started school I enjoyed spending my days as a full-time home-maker and gave up all evening meetings to spend quality time as a family, knowing that this too would pass quickly. Before we knew it all three were in high school, busy with band, volleyball and badminton. Each of them getting them their G1 license, then the G2 license, getting jobs, passing their G license, graduating high-school, moving Krystle into dorm at her post-secondary school of choice. Then of course in 2010, there was the wedding and both Kyle & Darcy left for post-secondary school in September, leaving us an empty next to contend with. We quickly adapted and learned to appreciate this life changing moment in our lives.
By definition, “life-changing” moments are ones which completely transform you. They are key moments that alter your life or circumstances in a significant and real way. These moments may be joyful or tragic, dramatic or subtle. Your moment may be a recent one or one from years back. Whatever they are, when they happened, they are your moments and they have helped define you.
But this next stage? This new one I am heading into, where I’ve become itchy, bitchy, sweaty, sleepy, bloated, forgetful & psycho.
That “wonderful” change of life that many women simply dread. Sadly, though, this is one stage I am not really looking forward to. With it’s multiple symptoms of possible weight gain, insomnia, mood swings, anxiety and hot flashes, which, when you put altogether can be quite bothersome, making life for me and the hubs uncomfortable.
For some it might be a time of reflection and insight, where you don’t mourn the past, but anticipate what the future holds. Some experts even go on to say “you may actually welcome this change wholeheartedly, embracing the next phase of life”. To be grateful for each of the moments that happen in life. To use each stage/opportunity/rite of passage/life-changing moment to appreciate what I already have. Life looks much better, and actually is, when approached with gratitude.
Each stage of life presents it own set of challenges and questions, some quickly answered and overcome, some linger unanswered. It likely will be a little unnerving at times, but, just like everything else, I am sure I will survive this rite of passage and live to tell the tale.
Life is good.
And I want to enjoy every. single. stage. Even this one!
Blessings
By definition, “life-changing” moments are ones which completely transform you. They are key moments that alter your life or circumstances in a significant and real way. These moments may be joyful or tragic, dramatic or subtle. Your moment may be a recent one or one from years back. Whatever they are, when they happened, they are your moments and they have helped define you.
But this next stage? This new one I am heading into, where I’ve become itchy, bitchy, sweaty, sleepy, bloated, forgetful & psycho.
For some it might be a time of reflection and insight, where you don’t mourn the past, but anticipate what the future holds. Some experts even go on to say “you may actually welcome this change wholeheartedly, embracing the next phase of life”. To be grateful for each of the moments that happen in life. To use each stage/opportunity/rite of passage/life-changing moment to appreciate what I already have. Life looks much better, and actually is, when approached with gratitude.
Each stage of life presents it own set of challenges and questions, some quickly answered and overcome, some linger unanswered. It likely will be a little unnerving at times, but, just like everything else, I am sure I will survive this rite of passage and live to tell the tale.
Life is good.
And I want to enjoy every. single. stage. Even this one!
Blessings
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
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By:
Anita
Birthday Letter
Dear Mom,
Today is your **th birthday {we’ll keep that secret between us}. I have decided to write you something, since writing is the easiest way for me to express myself…
As a young girl when asked what I wanted to be, my answer always was “a mom”. I think that’s because you were the best example of showing me what it truly means to be a great mom. Growing up we had our fair share of arguments, pretty much 80% of the time, and our relationship wasn’t an easy one; we rarely saw eye to eye, and often rubbed each other the wrong way. I know it wasn’t always easy. Thankfully, I grew up…
You have always been involved in my life and my families lives, I love how you love my kids and I love how they love you, making us all so very blessed to have you in our lives. I’ve probably said it before, but it bears repeating ~ Thank you for always, always being at my side and having my back. No one is in my corner quite the way you are. Thank you for being you. Thank you for your unconditional love. I don’t deserve it, but boy am I grateful for it. Thank you for the many wonderful things you taught me. You are an amazing woman! I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I am so glad that God decided to give you to me anyway.
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday, mom!
I hope you break 100 with good health and a strong mind. There’ll never be a day in my life when I won’t need you. I’m here for you too. Please remember that.
I treasure you, mom, and love you so much!
Love your daughter
Blessings
Today is your **th birthday {we’ll keep that secret between us}. I have decided to write you something, since writing is the easiest way for me to express myself…
As a young girl when asked what I wanted to be, my answer always was “a mom”. I think that’s because you were the best example of showing me what it truly means to be a great mom. Growing up we had our fair share of arguments, pretty much 80% of the time, and our relationship wasn’t an easy one; we rarely saw eye to eye, and often rubbed each other the wrong way. I know it wasn’t always easy. Thankfully, I grew up…
You have always been involved in my life and my families lives, I love how you love my kids and I love how they love you, making us all so very blessed to have you in our lives. I’ve probably said it before, but it bears repeating ~ Thank you for always, always being at my side and having my back. No one is in my corner quite the way you are. Thank you for being you. Thank you for your unconditional love. I don’t deserve it, but boy am I grateful for it. Thank you for the many wonderful things you taught me. You are an amazing woman! I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I am so glad that God decided to give you to me anyway.
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday, mom!
I treasure you, mom, and love you so much!
Love your daughter
Blessings
Monday, May 5, 2014
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By:
Anita
mhmm monday
From my new go-to recipe blog, comes this super scrumptious cookie.
Chocolate Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 ounces coarsely chopped semi-sweet or milk chocolate
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate chunks
Directions:
In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.
In a microwave proof bowl melt the coarsely chopped chocolate and the butter together at 50% power for 25 seconds at a time - stirring after each until they're both completely melted. Cool to luke warm.
Add the melted chocolate mixture to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with the sugar, eggs, and vanilla - beat on medium speed until combined.
On low speed beat in the flour mixture a little at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed. Fold in all of the chocolate chunks or only half of them if you prefer to garnish the tops.
Refrigerate the batter 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Scoop up big, heaping tablespoons of the batter and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake 10 - 14 minutes, or somewhere in between
If you held back on the chocolate chunks press a few into the tops of each cookie. Let them cool on the pan 10 - 15 minutes then remove to wire racks and cool completely.
Store in airtight containers in a cool place up to 5 days.
Enjoy!
This is a soft and chewy chocolate cookie bursting with chocolate chunks. Definitely a coookie made for chocolate lovers... and Darcy's!
Blessings
Chocolate Chocolate Chunk Cookies
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 ounces coarsely chopped semi-sweet or milk chocolate
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate chunks
Directions:
In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.
In a microwave proof bowl melt the coarsely chopped chocolate and the butter together at 50% power for 25 seconds at a time - stirring after each until they're both completely melted. Cool to luke warm.
Add the melted chocolate mixture to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with the sugar, eggs, and vanilla - beat on medium speed until combined.
On low speed beat in the flour mixture a little at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed. Fold in all of the chocolate chunks or only half of them if you prefer to garnish the tops.
Refrigerate the batter 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Scoop up big, heaping tablespoons of the batter and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake 10 - 14 minutes, or somewhere in between
If you held back on the chocolate chunks press a few into the tops of each cookie. Let them cool on the pan 10 - 15 minutes then remove to wire racks and cool completely.
Store in airtight containers in a cool place up to 5 days.
Enjoy!
This is a soft and chewy chocolate cookie bursting with chocolate chunks. Definitely a coookie made for chocolate lovers... and Darcy's!
Blessings
Saturday, May 3, 2014
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By:
Anita
Bautiful Thing ~ week # 18
Confession: I had a beautiful thing from last week that I was going to post and then this week I had another beautiful thing happen. While I was trying to decide which one to post, I realized that since they both involved Krystle and that this is my blog, I could make an exception and have two beautiful things to share…
A week ago on Tuesday my daughter and I treated ourselves to Starbucks and went shopping at Costco. Um, shopping? at Costco?
that’s your beautiful thing? Yes, yes and YES! But, here’s the thing, it’s not really the shopping, nor is it the Starbucks, {although I do love me a Venti Tazo Chai made with soy, extra hot Latte } it’s more about the time I get to spend with my girl.
And then on Sunday, after church Krystle invited us to join her for lunch. We ordered a scrumptious take-out meal of Chinese, which we paired with a lovely glass of wine. Took in an open house of a home I have admired for some time, followed by a walk through McNaughton trail with the dogs.
Each opportunity/moment we spend together is precious, no matter what we do, even shopping. Our time together is always fun, enjoyable, delightful and most definitely amusing with her bouts of silly antics. Not only is she my daughter, but she’s also my biggest supporter, encourager, confidant, mentor, walking buddy, co-worker, best friend, and the list could go on and on…
No matter how much time we spend together, I eagerly look forward to the next time!
What was your beautiful thing this week?
Blessings
A week ago on Tuesday my daughter and I treated ourselves to Starbucks and went shopping at Costco. Um, shopping? at Costco?
And then on Sunday, after church Krystle invited us to join her for lunch. We ordered a scrumptious take-out meal of Chinese, which we paired with a lovely glass of wine. Took in an open house of a home I have admired for some time, followed by a walk through McNaughton trail with the dogs.
Each opportunity/moment we spend together is precious, no matter what we do, even shopping. Our time together is always fun, enjoyable, delightful and most definitely amusing with her bouts of silly antics. Not only is she my daughter, but she’s also my biggest supporter, encourager, confidant, mentor, walking buddy, co-worker, best friend, and the list could go on and on…
No matter how much time we spend together, I eagerly look forward to the next time!
Blessings
Thursday, May 1, 2014
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By:
Anita
uh, oh!
Uh oh! I been thinkin’! Hit the random button!
I think I absolutely love Criminal Minds on Bravo.
I think I watch a lot of Bravo.
I think I'm glad Morgan, Jeremiah, and Jefra are off Survivor.
I think I need to buy a bottle of wine.
I think I have to go grocery shopping tomorrow.
I think I'm over this cold snap... it is a month into the spring right?
I think I need a haircut.
I think I worry to much.
I think I think too much about getting a puppy.
I think I'm excited for long May weekend.
I think I've decided to make a big lunch for that Sunday.
I think I'm so over spring cleaning season.
I think I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
I think gas prices are stupid.
I think my son is great as security for Encore in Orillia.
I think I'm over being told that my illness is all in my head.
I think I’d like to start a Pinterest account.
I think I found a new hobby to begin.
I think Kevin Costner is an underrated country singer.
I think I need to meet my friend for tea and have a good gab fest {like STAT}.
I think I'm getting panicked about trying to find my daughter something fun for her birthday.
I think its weird I'm still panicking about birthday presents.
I think I need to get a new book to read.
I think I read too much.
I think I’m in awe of my son’s skill for long-boarding.
I think I'm ready for summer holidays.
I think Thursdays are cool.
Blessings
I think I absolutely love Criminal Minds on Bravo.
I think I watch a lot of Bravo.
I think I'm glad Morgan, Jeremiah, and Jefra are off Survivor.
I think I need to buy a bottle of wine.
I think I have to go grocery shopping tomorrow.
I think I'm over this cold snap... it is a month into the spring right?
I think I need a haircut.
I think I worry to much.
I think I'm excited for long May weekend.
I think I've decided to make a big lunch for that Sunday.
I think I'm so over spring cleaning season.
I think I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
I think gas prices are stupid.
I think my son is great as security for Encore in Orillia.
I think I'm over being told that my illness is all in my head.
I think I’d like to start a Pinterest account.
I think I found a new hobby to begin.
I think Kevin Costner is an underrated country singer.
I think I need to meet my friend for tea and have a good gab fest {like STAT}.
I think I'm getting panicked about trying to find my daughter something fun for her birthday.
I think its weird I'm still panicking about birthday presents.
I think I need to get a new book to read.
I think I read too much.
I think I’m in awe of my son’s skill for long-boarding.
I think I'm ready for summer holidays.
I think Thursdays are cool.
Blessings
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