Last day of 2010.. whew.

Whew, what a day. We got up around 7am.. Went out for breakfast.. that was a trip.. stopped at waffle house and the only seating was a booth. I can not fit into them any more.. so we had to leave. I think I heard someone laugh as we were leaving because i couldn't fit the booth (Idiot)

Went looking for a Huddle House that Jerry recalls seeing, but we never found it.. took a road out looking for it, past a Shoneys. Got outside the city limits and turned around.. and took a different road.. and in the end ended up back at Shoneys. It was a little crowded but that was ok. the food was hot, the waitress earned her tip, and we enjoyed a leisurely Breakfast before heading back to the house.

Loaded up the laundry and headed to the Soap and Suds. Too crowded. headed back, picking up the dogs, along with the GPS.. then to Veterans Park for a GeoCache.. Found It.

I was talking to my Cousin when Jerry left the van to go look for it. about 1/2 a hour later, I took the dogs out of the van. and we started walking the path that Jerry took. i could hear him calling me as we topped part of the path. He hadn't found it, yet.. I let the dog do what they needed to do (cleaning up after them with a bag I always seem to have in my pocket, and tossing in a close by trashcan) then headed toward a benchm to sit down, at the Disk Golf course. Jerry headed up into the brush again. looking for it still. . Rocky didn't like that at all, and when Jerry came out. I gave m Rocky for a few minutes.. As we were walking back toward the van, Jerry said,"Hey. let me try in here." I asked him to hand me Rocky's lead, while he headed back into the brush. And in less than a minute, he found it. Signed our names and left a token, took a token. First find of the day.

We gad taken a laptop with us so Jerry could look up more sites instead of relying on just his notebook and memory. Found out another cache is close by. Headed to it and, well.. zip. nadda. could n't find it. The gps "lead" us to privet Property. we didn't risk it since the site didn't say it was on PP. We drove past the Elvis Presley Birthplace (again) and headed for another site. 'VffV' was our next stop.. again on Privet Property, or so we thought. but we were not close enough, I could see that it was behind a large building but not sure what it was.. until we got on the main road. It's an outlet mall.. Went behind that building and Jerry walked right on on the GeoCache. Not a problem at all.

Gee,since we were there.. we went shopping a bit. , We went into Black and Decker.. (ut oh) I picked up a food chopper. A mini food chopper that also has a discharge chute so I can slice things like celery or potatoes quickly.. going to try in out very soon. Jerry picked up a Drill for the camper ( means I can use it) An adaptor, and an Impact driver for his job. All for under $ 130. I need the drill to make a pilot hole for a cup hook I want to put the lighter for the burners on. I keep dropping them in the dish water if they are set on the right hand side of the stove otherwise. Making a place to keep it, out of the way. Walked around to see what else is there. clothing stores, mostly. and went back to the van. I watered the dogs before we went in, and I had to dump the water before we took off.

So, by now we are 2 for 3 and ready to find another Geocache. This one was 8 miles away. took the 4 lane.. for 6 miles, then a couple of two lanes and ended up in a small town, By the school, in a small, memorial park... we took pictures of a log house there.. and the GPS guided us to a tree. A very funny looking tree, One that many would call a love knot. Two different trees had tried to grow at the same spot and made a love knot.One of the trees has a light colored bark, and the other a dark colored bark. Jerry looked around and all over that tree. I asked if he tried the space between the trees.. Yeah.. Do it again. Hey.. guess what? he found it.. buried under some leaves. I got to sign this one with both our names and date it. Great find. Nice little country road ride.

Looked up another Site to go look for.. Good thing I took my insuline with us, cause it was going on 3:30 and we hadn't eaten since breakfast. and we were both getting hungry so we ate at Hardees, after I took my afternoon shot. Then we were off to find that next cache.. We have been to this site before.. from a different direction.

Guess what.. the GPS leads Jerry to a building.. inside the building apparently. I sat in the van with the dogs. He never did find it.

So we are 3 for 5 today. It' was starting to get dark, and we needed to do laundry. I don't like starting the "New Year" with a lot of dirty laundry. So we go back the the laundry mat which is the opposite direction from where we were and did that. Taking the dogs out for a while so they can do their thing. I also got macon some extra exercize by extending him some extra line, and having him follow me as I walked a bit of a circle. I use to do this with the horses.

On the way back home, it was starting to rain, and I asked if Jerry still wanted to get the food shopping done for the day as well. Um.. yeah,.. why not. So we got that done.. it's all out of the way. Food, laundry and taking care of the pets.

We are under a tornado watch. expires around 11pm. I feel we are in a good place here. not near the top of a hill. a bit protected by a hill, really. and tucked in next to a creek, We have a place we can "run" to (I don't run, any more) if it gets really rough.. the office building is snuggles up against a hill and the bathrooms are the safest place to be. (no pets though).

Chicken Salad Supreme

Chicken Salad Supreme

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene

2004

1/2 cup Raisins

3 Tablespoons Water

1 1/2 cups Celery, chopped

3/4 to 1 Cup Mayo, depending on taste

1 1/2 Tablespoon Lemon Juice

3 Tablespoon Lemon juice

3 cups chicken, cooked and chopped

3 Tablespoons Pimentos, diced

1 Tablespoon powder Onion

**Combine rasins, 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice and water, let soak until plump. Overnight or at least several hours.

Combine chicken and celery. Add the pimentoes and the drained raisins.

MIx together mayo, 1 1/2 tablespoons Lemon Juice and powdered Onion. Toss into the chicken mixture lightly. Add Salt and Pepper to taste.

***Note. best if made the day before to allow for the flavors to mix.

<< Good Morning, Dec 30 >>

Good Morning,
Wow, only one day left to this year. I have been reading my back "Good Morning" messages to see just what all we got done this past year. Lots of snow and cold last winter. Lots of heat and humidy this past summer.
I have had to lock the kittens in a kennel for a bit, just to have some peace. Now that they are more quiet, I can let them out again.. They were trying to get into Every Thing. My empty enevelopes from our cards, My recipe books I have out. Scattering the kitten food instead of eating it. Jumping on the dogs, then getting all huffy cause the dog "Looked" at them. (trying to get the dogs in trouble) Then on the kennels again, trying to scatter stuff, again.

Outside my door ... The sun is just now starting to clear the horizon. But I doubt I'll see "Light" we have heavy cloud cover and rain this morning. We may hit 60 today but I don't recall if we are to have the clouds and rain all day, or not.

The dogs ... Needed a longer time outside this morning. I didn't realize our neighbor to the front was in.. He was leaving for work. Rocky wanted to go say "Hi" to him.. and I was telling Rocky "no" when Rocky "remembered" why he was outside.. yep. a total change came over him and he headed straight for the other side of the road to go "P". Then he and Macon needed a bit further walk to do the "other". they don't normally do that first thing in the morning, but on our second outing of the day. So, I'm wondering how that second walk is going to go. I ended up having to back track yesterday afternoon to "clean up" after Macon when he couldn't wait intil we got to the weeds in the dog walk area. Yes, I clean up after my dogs.

The Kittens ... Are now asleep in a kennel after trying to run havic in the camper. I'll be letting them out here in a bit and see if they will settel down a bit more.

From the kitchen... Jerry wants me to use the ground pork we bought two weeks ago. I'll fix 'spegettie' with it. Might bake some fresh bread to go with it.

I am hearing... Water dripping in the kitchen sink, Morning News on the TV. Rain on the roof.

I am wearing... (7am) still in my blue house dress. Will change after my shower this mornig.

I am reading... Recipe books

I am thinking...

I am thankful for... Jerry working again so quickly after this lay off.

I am hoping... That next year is much better than this last year was.

I am creating... A cleaner home.

One of my favorite things... going Geo Caching with Jerry.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Grocry shopping, laundry on Friday. Jerry has Friday and Saturday off.

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/-Crafts/

Dinner tonight, Chili Parmesan Chicken

Chili Parmesan Chicken

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene"

2004

4 Tablespoons Parmesan Cheese

2 teaspoon Chili Powder

4 small, boneless skinless chicken breast halves

Mix cheese and chili powder in a pie plate. Add chicken, turn to evenly coat all sides. Place chicken on ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350F for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through

For Today... December 27, 2010

December 25, 8am White Christmas morning, Tupelo Mississippi

For Today... December 27, 2010

Good Morning (6 am)

Jerry just left to check on a job that is close by. We tried to make the morning start as if he already has the job. Rocky is soo confused. He just doesn't get it. He's so use to us moving before Jerry gets a job. Haha. I even packed up a lunch for Jerry. I need to dump the tea and make fresh tea. I forgot to do that, over the weekend. So far, we have treated his being off work more like a mini vacation than a job hunt. Yes, he looked for work, but since we already know how hard it is to find work around Christmas time, decided to not let it get us down. Jerry had lots of fun looking for Geocaches and I went along for the ride and some walking outside the campground. He gets a thrill when he finds one.

Yesterday we woke up to snow flakes in the air but it was too warm for any accumulations. We did drive north to find out where this place is, that Jerry is to apply for a job. We are a bit confussed.. call and show up to put in his app. Well, that's what he's doing right now. It was just a bit to "raw" to want to wonder about in a strange place looking for a small box so we didn't Geocache yesterday. This next weekend looks like a much better weather for looking up a couple of boxes.

　

Here in a bit, I'll be taking a shower, then working on cleaning up the camper as much as I can before Jerry gets back home.

　

Outside my door ... a bit of a cloud cover, cold enough to see my breath, when I walked the dogs at 5 am.

　

The dogs ... They are now sleeping on our beds. That first walk of the morning was just cold and they were glade to jump back into the camper and get into our warm beds. that is once Rocky got over the fact that Jerry was going and not taking him along for a ride. he kept looking out the window expecting Jerry to come back and get us.

　

The Kittens ... are playing all over the place. Chasing. king of the pillows on the bed. on the top of the printer. off the printer, jump onto the top of the kennels, jump on each other off the kennels. playing with a piece of green plastic off a milk carton. ripping up paper. pulling the kitchen towels off Jerry's laptop. in the bathtub, out of the bathtub. on the bathroom counter, (time for a drink as we are letting the water drip) off the counter top onto each other. run back down the hall into the living room area, under the shelf. and so on.. sounds like a herd of buffalo is running back and forth in here.

　

From the kitchen... I made Jerry his usual work breakfast of potatoe patties, sausage and eggs. not sure what I want to fix for dinner. I just found a recipe I want to try, but don't have all the ingredients for it.

　

I am hearing... The kittens playing. the tv (weather) and the fan on the box heater in the livingroom where I'm sitting.

　

I am wearing... (6am) flannel pj's.

I am reading... emails and recipes.

Tex Mex Stew

Tex Mex Stew
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene
2004

 

1 1/2 lbs Ground Beef
1 cup Frozen chopped Green and Red Peppers
1 can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
1 can Corn, drained
1 jar Green chiles, diced
1 pkg Onion Soup Mix
2 1/2 to 3 cups Water, divided
1 Tablespoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
2 Tablespoons All-purpose Flour

 

 Brown beef in a 5 to 6 quart deep pot over medium heat, about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon. leave some larger pieces. Add frozen peppers, beans,corn, chiles, soup mix, 2 cups of the water, cumin, salt, oregano and cayenne. Simmer covered for 10 minutes. Stir 1/4 cup water into the flour in a small cup until smooth. Stir into stes, and cook until thickened, about 1 hour.

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/allholidaycraftclub/


The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

. Visit a sick person, or send them a care package.
. Join a Big Brother or Sister program.
. Leave a piece of candy on a coworker's desk.
. Bring your child to work with you for the afternoon.

Merry Christmas !!

Merry Christmas !

We woke up to a covering of Snow !! Last night last forcast had removed the snow from the forcast and put in freezing rain.. What a wonderful surprise to wake up to a White Christmas.

Wish we had some kids around to enjoy it with.. but that is life. It was wonderful to see and just as nice to walk around in. Taking the dogs for first walk was intresting as Macon wanted to play in all this white stuff and Rocky just wanted to get done and back home. I was trying to take pictures along the way.

I hope you and your family had a great day..

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas.

Out of the 20 or so rigs here in the campground I think there are maybe 5 that are "home". Us (of course) the campground hostess, (naturally), two that came in today or this evening.. and one other.

We did got Geo Caching again today, but we are 0 for 5 for today. Didn't find a one of them.. oh well. I don't know if we will try again tomorrow or not. Most likely Not.
A quiet Christmas this year. No traveling for us. Really don't like to travel on any holiday. I do miss seeing the kids and the Grand kids but we may have more chances of doing that this next year.

Jerry has a job lead to follow up on, on Monday. He also found a lead on Craig's list. He'll call that as well on Monday.

We got the munchies after dinner. I was wanting chocooate and Jerry was out of diet Cola. The local Walgreens is open until midnight... all the other stores are closed.. and the people in Walgreens shopping were stressed out. All we wanted was a bit of chocolate and the cola and it still took 20 minutes to get in pick up the items we wanted, then a wait at the checkout line. the fellow ahead of us spent almost $200. and took it out in two smaller bags.

We took the dogs with us and of course Macon was barking at any one who moved. Just doin his job.

We took a nice long walk around the campground with the dogs, this afterenoon. So quiet and nice. Will take them for another one tomorrow afternoon, after dinner.

dinner will be ham. baked potatoe for him, baked sweet potatoe for me. Salad for both of us, and possibly some green beans as well.

not so good news, Good News, Geo cashing

Ok, the not so good news first. Jerry got laid off The day before his birthday. We knew it was comin so it was not a surprise. So the job hunt is on, again.

Good News is.. Jerry goes Monday to a job lead he got from someone here in the campground. They need two people and Jerry already called one of the fellows he was workin with here. So there is a decent chance he may get this job. Would be nice to not have to move just yet.

We sent gifts to the grand kids. Was hoping for one more week, so we could have sent a bit of something to the kids.. Once Jerry gets working again, we may send each an after Christnas gift.

Jerry got me this laptop for my Birthday, Mother's day, Christmas last year and this year as well.. He got a digital camera for his Year gift. We got these as soon as we caught up all the bills and before we found out the endin date on this job. We were told this job was to last unil the end of Janurary.

We also picked up a Garmin GPS. I wanted a Garmin when we first got a GPS a couple of years ago. We enjoy looking for Geo caches. It's a fun way to past the time, drive around a little bit and learn the area better. We have found 2 of 4 we know are on "The Trace", We are doing fairly good with it. We don't usually go into a cementary if we discover that is where one is hidden . One of today's looks was in a cematary so we don't count it in our found verses looked for. We are still doing about 2 for 4 over all. We found one by a school this morning. as well as one just off a main road, up a driveway behind the brush, in the weeds.








This Geo cache is called Sticky Sistuation. Jerry didn't find it. The description said to wear a long sleeved shirt so we think its in one of the holly bushes along the roadway.

This one is called the Big Valve. Another one we didn't find. Jerry re checked the Geo Cache site and thinks it may be on the other side of the driveway from where he was looking.

Although we did not find the one posted at the homestead, we did find the one in the park behind the birthplace of Elvis.

Today, I asked Jerry to let me go into the Goodwill book store, He went back to the Big Valve, but didn't find his Geo Cache.. while I found three cookbooks and two story books for just a bit over $20. Two of the cookbooks are from Tupelo, the third a cookbook for cooking for 2.

One of the reading books is more a pre teen book about women who setteled the west. The other is a crafts book.

for the cat lovers

This one's for the cat lovers on the list:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn2h3_aH3vo

 

 

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/1812Civilian/



The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Ask someone if they need you to pick up anything while you're out
shopping.
Ask a child to play a board game, and let them win.
Ask an elderly person to tell you about the good old days.
During bad weather, plan an indoor picnic with the family.

2 2 2 1

2 2 2 1
2 cups Creamettes, uncooked (Creamettes are macaroni noodles)
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
2 cups milk
1 cup leftover meat (ham, chicken, or a can of Tuna)
Chopped pimento
8 oz. shredded cheese (mild Cheddar or American)
Reserve some cheese for top of casserole. Mix all ingredients together.
Put in buttered baking dish, 13 x 8 x 2 inch. Refrigerate 8 hours or
overnight. Bake 1 hour at 350 F.
Serves 6-8

May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year
through! 
~Angelique

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/-Crafts/


The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Tell someone you believe in them.
Share your umbrella on a rainy day.
Welcome new neighbors with flowers or a plant.
Offer to watch a friend's home while they're away.

JUST FRED , a joke

JUST FRED

A cop stops a Harley for traveling faster than the posted speed limit, so he asks the biker his name.
'Fred,' he replies.
'Fred what?' the officer asks.
'Just Fred,' the man responds.
The officer is in a good mood and thinks he might just give the biker a break and, write him out a warning instead of a ticket. The officer then presses him for the last name.
The man tells him that he used to have a last name but lost it.  The officer thinks that he has a nut case on his hands but plays along with it. 'Tell me, Fred, how did you lose your last name?'
The biker replies, 'It's a long story, so stay with me.'  I was born Fred Johnson.  
I  studied hard and got good grades.  
When I got older, I realized that I wanted to be a doctor.  I went through college, medical school, internship, residency, and finally got my degree, so I was Fred Johnson, MD.  
After a while I got bored being a doctor, so I decided to go back to school.
Dentistry was my dream!  Got all the way through School, got my degree, so then I was Fred Johnson, MD, DDS.  
Got bored doing dentistry, so I started fooling around with my assistant and she gave me VD, so now I was Fred Johnson, MD, DDS, with VD.  
Well, the   ADA found out about the VD, so they took away my DDS.  
Then I was Fred Johnson, MD, with VD.  
Then the AMA found out about the ADA taking away my  DDS  because of the VD, so they took away my MD leaving me as Fred Johnson with VD.
Then the VD took away my Johnson, so now I am Just Fred.'
The officer walked away in tears, laughing.

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/-Crafts/


The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Tell someone you believe in them.
Share your umbrella on a rainy day.
Welcome new neighbors with flowers or a plant.
Offer to watch a friend's home while they're away.

Good Morning

Good Morning. Well for a few more minutes it will be morning
I got the van today. I had to get to the post office and get a few things into the mail including my grand kids Presents.
So, everything is sent off, as it should be.. Everything should be delivered by Monday or Tuesday.. and I have my cards sent out as well. I'm doing good, for this year. Only one week late on everything I should be doing.
Yeah, my knee is still acting up, but not as bad as yesterday. I can almost walk normal for a bit, then it will seize a bit, then will work again.  Figuring out how to get in the van this morning was , intresting. Then I had to get out to toss the trash, then get back in again.. At least at the job I just had to change seats and when getting in on the drivers side I use my left leg to lift me up anyways. So all in all, it's doing good. 
Rocky and Macon did well with our walks so far today. they are not walking at the end of the lead so much and not trying to rush me as much. The Kittens are all cuddley right now. Three of them are right by my hip, sleeping
tonights dinner will be chicken noodle soup. I still have to start that in a bit but it won't take long to toss together. I'll toss in the remein soup just as i'm leaving to pick up Jerry and it will be all ready when we come back in the door. yummy.

 

It's simple, really. I removed all the meat from the chicken I baked yesterday and saved the broth as well as made more broth with the neck bones. I have frozen vegetables that I'll add of cup of, to the chicken and broth when I plug in the crockpot. of course I'll remove the chicken fat off the top of the meat and broth before I start it.
It will have every thing we need in a meal. meat, Vegetables and starch.  I baked some Gingerbread cookies yesterday and one will be dessert.

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/-Crafts/


The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Tell someone you believe in them.
Share your umbrella on a rainy day.
Welcome new neighbors with flowers or a plant.
Offer to watch a friend's home while they're away.

Decemer 15, 2010. New England Clam Chowder

For Today... Decemer 15, 2010

Late start for me this day. We woke up to ice and freezing rain when we first got up. My knee is still bothering me a bit, so after breakfast I talked Jerry into walking the dogs for me. Which he kinda needed to do anyway to check out the roads. There is a wooden bridge close to one of the three dog walking area's here, and he wanted to see how icy it was. Very icy. So he went back to bed and I fell asleep on the couch, as has been my usual for the last few days. I woke up about 8:30 and by the time I woke up and got up and dressed it was time to walk the dogs, again.

With my sore knee I was taking it very easy and having the dogs on leads was intresting but they really understood that, this time, I meant it that they could not be at the end of their lines. I took about three steps on that wooden bridge and wow was it slick. I backed off, real carefully. I took the longer walk to the entrance where another dog walk is. Because I had the dogs, I couldn't rightly check in the office for our mail. Because Jerry decided that it was warm enough for the roads to be in good shape, and was leaving for work, I asked him to check to see if we had any mail while he was leaving, since it's hard for me to check with the dogs. I asked him to call me if we did... Well, he called, we did, and it's on the counter in the office. "what!" "why didn't you pick it up.. " "I thought you wanted it" "Well yeah, I can read it when you bring it home after work."

　

there's no saying that any one will even be in the office next time I walk the dogs.

Jerry had to go back into the office and pick it up. We lost connection and I called him back and told him.. take it to work with him and I could read it when he got home tonight, I just needed it picked up cause I don't know how far I'll be able to walk today.

　

　Outside my door ... It's a cold, wet, icy day and I'm sure glade that the camper is nice and dry and warm.

　

The dogs ... Are sleeping. they had a lot of fun this morning playing hard while Jerry was here. they thought it much fun that I let them run to him when we saw him outside by the van. At first, they were a bit hesatant about going anywhere, but he called them and then they scooted over right away. They then proceeded to play and in the middle of that, Rocky's collar slipped off. That happens often when they play as it's a chain collar and is way too big for him. He went straight to the door and waited for Jerry to open it as he knows he's not to be outside without a lead on. Macon was right on his heels, still wanting to play.

The Kittens ... Are asleep as well. One of them figured a way to open a small box of straight pins and managed to spill them all over the counter, the dog kennels and the floor. I've been finding pins all day, so far. I think I may have them stopped from using our beds for potty. We were at Home Depot the other day, and I went looking for cleaning supplies. I found the right department. I was looking for anything with a very strong orange scent to it, so the cats would avoid the beds all together. I found a couple of things, one was an odore remover. I used it first.. on both foam mattrisses. spraying both down well till they were soaked. sitting them on edge to help keep the kittens off.. well they liked sleeping on the upper edge of them. (ha ha) once they dried, I sprayed them, again. and let them dry again. Then I sprayed them with a very strong smelling air freshner. The scent has lasted for three days so far. I sprayed them this morning to refresh the scent. All the pets still enjoy sleeping on the beds, but so far, no more wet spots.

　

From the kitchen... I'm going to bake a frying chicken. we both like a good baked chicken. Jerry likes light meat and I like dark meat. I hope to make Chicken soup out of any left overs, when I'm done. I'll bake a couple of potates or maybe a potatoe for Jerry and a sweet potato for me.

　

I am hearing... the tv and the fan off the heater.

　

I am wearing... grey sweatpants and a light t-shirt. I will slip on a sweat shirt before I walk the dogs here in a bit.

I am reading... emails and recipes.

***********

New England Clam Chowder

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene

2004

2 slices Bacon

1 cup Onion, Finly chopped

2 cups Potatoes, cubed

1 teaspoon Salt

dash of Pepper

2 Cans minced Clams or 1 pint shucked fresh Clames

2 cups Half and Half

2 Tablespoons Butter or Marigarine

Chop Bacon coarsely. Cook in large skillet until almost crisp. Add onions, cook about 5 minutes. Add cubed potatoes, salt, pepper and 1 cup of water. Cook, uncovered for 15 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender. Meanwhile, drain clams, reserving liquid. Chop clams coarsely. Add Clams, 1/2 of the clam liquid, the half and half, and butter to the pot. mix well. Heat about 3 minutes but do not boil.

December 13, 2010, our weekend

For Today... December 13, 2010.
Good Morning.  We had a cold but good weekend. Jerry had to work Saturday, and we didn't know if he would still have a job after that. He has gone into work today. We don't know for how many more days though. today could be the last or any other day this week. 
Yesterday, Jerry and I were going store to store, trying to find him some insulated over-alls or coveralls that would fit him.  After giving up on those, we started a hunt for thermo longjohn's.. yeah, right... In Mississippi. We finally found two of them, at the Dollar General. I figure I can always take some quarters, walk over to the office with a small load of laundry and wash them, then carry it back to the camper. Two is better than none at all.
Yesterday was a day of just getting colder and colder as the day progressed. today's high is only suppose to be 33, but we have the sun out and that's helping make the camper warmer.

 

Today, it was soo cold in here this morning that I went back to bed and didn't get up until 8. The dogs were wanting out and were doing their best to quietly wake me up. They still had to wait for me to wake up, get dressed, take my meds and grab a quick breakfast before we could take that walk. By the time we got to the potty area, they were ready to go back home quick.

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/a-little-bit-of_everything/

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Hug someone in your family for no reason.
Wave to a child in the car next to you.
Send a thank-you note to your doctor.
Repeat something nice you heard about someone else.

New England Clam Chowder

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene

2004

2 slices Bacon

1 cup Onion, Finly chopped

2 cups Potatoes, cubed

1 teaspoon Salt

dash of Pepper

2 Cans minced Clams or 1 pint shucked fresh Clames

2 cups Half and Half

2 Tablespoons Butter or Marigarine

Chop Bacon coarsely. Cook in large skillet until almost crisp. Add onions, cook about 5 minutes. Add cubed potatoes, salt, pepper and 1 cup of water. Cook, uncovered for 15 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender. Meanwhile, drain clams, reserving liquid. Chop clams coarsely. Add Clams, 1/2 of the clam liquid, the half and half, and butter to the pot. mix well. Heat about 3 minutes but do not boil.

Chichen Pot Pie

Chichen Pot Pie
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene
2004
3 1/2 lbs Chicken
1 can Cream of Chicken Soup
2 cans Chicken Broth
4 boiled Eggs
1/2 can English Peas
Crust:
1 stick melted Oleo or Butter
1 cup Self rising Flour
1 cup Milk

 

Cook chicken, remove skin and bones and cut into bite sized pieces. Place chicken, eggs and peas in lightly oiled casserol dish.  Heat together chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour mixture over Chicken, eggs and peas. Mix crust ingredients well and pour over chicken mixture. Bake at 400F until browned.

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EasyOrnaments/

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Invite a friend to tea.
Recommend a good book to someone.
Donate clothing to a charity.
Offer an elderly person a ride to where they need to go.

For Today, December 9, 2010, Minted Fruit Kebabs

For Today... December 9, 2010

Good Morning. Not much going on here, right now. Jerry was so tired last night that he went to bed early. Not long after Survivor went off. Not that I blame him any. He was up a couple of time the night before becayse of pain in his sholder. He said it's getting a bit better. I've taken the dogs outside this morning and it's downright cold out there. Even they were in a hurry to finish up and get back inside.

　

Outside my door ... (6am) No signs of the Sun yet.. it's cold and the grass under foot was crunchy when I walked on it. I forgot to ake the keys out with me to start the van to defrost the windows.

(8am) Now that the sun is up... it's nice and bright outside. We may reach the upper 40's today. Suppose to be in the 50's tomorrow and Satureday, but then back down in the basement again.

The dogs ... Don't like it cold outside. They "Hurry" and want to run back in. I don't run. Once in the first they do is see what the kittens are doing.

　

The Kittens ... are much more adventurouse now. Last night they were behind the blinds, in the blinds or playing through the blinds. the slept most of the night with me. I was up three or four times and the last time, instead of them sleeping, decided it was play time. Two were under the comforter with me and two were outside of it.. Jumping on the two under and on me.

　

From the kitchen... Think I'll fix the rest of the pack of burger patties I have since they are opened. Jerry will like that. Think I'll slice up a few potatoes and toss them in the skillet for the starchy part of the meal and fix the last of the salad to go with that.

　

I am hearing... As always, I have the TV on. Got the water dripping in the sink to keep it from freezing. And the heater, that I put on the floor for a bit, because my feet are cold and I have no way to get them off the floor and still type on my laptop.

I am wearing... Dark grey Sweat pants and a purpl;e sweat shirt. I'm also wrapped up in a long piece of fleece as well.

********

Minted Fruit Kebabs

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene"

2004

1/4 medium Cantaloupe

4 Strawberries, hulled & cut in half

2 Kiwi Fruit, peeled & cut into chuncks

1 Tablespoon chopped Mint

1 Tablespoon Lime Juice

1 Nectarine or Peach, unpeeled and cut into slices

With a melon baller, scoop out cantaloupe into balls or cut into chunks. In a medium bowl, toss melon, strawberries, nectarine, kiwi, nint and lime juice. On skewers alternate fruit. Serve with pourable raspberry fruit (syrup?) Garnish with a sprig of mint.

For Today... December 8, 2010

Good Morning.

We went shopping last night and I was able to pick up a few things. I picked up a gingerbread village to send to my daughter to make with her kids. I'll try to send it out this week. Looks like I'll have to get the Van on Monday, by driving Jerry to work, then do some last minute shopping for all three kids then sending off all in the same day. How I hate doing that. I'll be so tired by the time to go get Jerry.. I may even suggest we eat out that night. I doubt anything will be wrapped this year. Beth just texted me that she would like some DVD's for Christmas.. only thing is, I have no idea what to get her. Guess it will be another Gift card year for her. I've been looking for a DVD for my Granddaughter. No luck yet... if I do find it. I'll pick it up but if I haven't found it in a store my MOnday, I'll go on line and have it sent to her Mom, to wrap for us. Still looking for a gift for our Grandson as well. I looked at Walmart and just didn't really like what I saw in his age range at all. we have a Toy r Us close by and I may shop there as well. If Jerry has Sunday off we will go there, and to the mall. Of course I also suggested that we go find a few Geocaches as well on his day off.

Our weather today is cold and grey. Well, to me 40 is cold, even if it's not cold for eveyone else. We got down well below freezing last night but didn't have frost on the van. We were out after dark, so I'm sure that had something to do with there being no frost on it.

We took the dogs with us and they loved it. of course it helps that I had treats in my pocket to give them when they were good. Maybe the kittens now know just what the catbox is for... nO wet spots on the bed in the last two or three days. Funny, I had to wait on two kittens this morning before I could clean the catbox out. I'm thinking they knew that I was going to clean it and wanted to be sure to use it before instead of after the morning cleaning.

Still not sure what I'm going to fix for dinner tonight. Maybe the "nw to us" boxed burger meal I found at the market this past week. I don't even recall what it is.

I am hearing... The View on the Tv, Water dripping in the kitchen sink.

　

I am wearing... maroon sweat pants and a different purple sweat shirt

　

I am reading... emails and recipes

A few plans for the rest of the week... Keeping the camper clean. making some ginger cookies for desserts, some shopping.

For Today... December 7, 2010

As you can see in the above picrure, the leaves have fallen from the trees. More of the light come through the trees now that the leaves are off and they make strange shadows on the ground. The squirrls are having lots of fun running from tree to tree and chasing each other.

We did the laundry last night. Took a bit longer than we expected to and we left later than we thought we would so I didn't get to the Dollar General store like I thought I would have time to. That's ok, cause I'll have Jerry take me, tonight

　

Our last few nights have been cool enough that we had to dribble water to keep the water lines from freezing up. Sure, we heat taped the incoming hose but that doesn't mean the waterlines under the camper will be all that protected from the cold. I washed Jerry's work coat and coveralls. I really didn't know he was going to toss those in, I don't think he knew either, until the last minute.

I fixed a crockpot of beans last night for our dinner. I fixed up a salad and baked up three biscuits each. We plumb forgot that I had also made pudding for dinner. I mixed up some Butterscotch pudding, placed some vanilla cookies in the bottom of two large bowls, spooned in some of the pudding. sliced up a banana into each bowl then spooned the rest of the pudding on top. That will be our dessert for tonight.. I'm afraid the cookies on top are going to be extra soggy so I'll cruch up a couple more vanilla cookies and sprinkle on top.

We didn't get any snow flurries last night. Now they are saying tomorrow night, south of us. We will see. We will see. It can stay south. I like a little snow but I had enough of it last year to last me a while.

Outside my door ... It's bright and sunny but it doesn't seem to be warming up muchl. Of course it's December and it's suppose to be cold. We are suppose to be in the mid 40's again today with a slight warming trend until this weekend then colder again.

　

The dogs .. . Are sleeping on our beds. The floor is cold. Rocky was a bit miffed at Jerry last night because he was not taken for a ride when we did the laundry. It was too cold for him to be out in the van with no heat on.

The Kittens ... The kitten have been busy this morning. I put the bag I bought them, between the kennels to get it out of the way. They were not playing with it, you know.. It's taken them 3 hours, but they have finally gottne out out and one is inside with the other 3 outside trying to get in with it.

From the kitchen...

I'll be fixing a roast for tonights dinner. I'll fix green beans with it, as well as potatoes. It's a meal in one pan.

I mixed up some Butterscotch pudding, placed some vanilla cookies in the bottom of two large bowls, spooned in some of the pudding. sliced up a banana into each bowl then spooned the rest of the pudding on top. That will be our dessert for tonight.. I'm afraid the cookies on top are going to be extra soggy so I'll cruch up a couple more vanilla cookies and sprinkle on top.

I am hearing... the tv is on. "The View" is about to come on and I like watching that. I'm still not so sure if I like "The Talk" or not.

I am wearing... Maroon sweat pants and purple top.. not the best matched of sets but it's nice and warm.

Chicken Breasts a la Nettles

Chicken Breasts a la Nettles
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene"
2004

 

4 whole Chicken Breasts,split, boned and skinned
8 4x4  slices of Swiss Cheese
1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (undiluted)
1/4 cup dry white wine (or unsweetned apple juice)
1 cup Herb seasoned stuffing mix, crushed
1/4 cup Butter, melted

 

Arrande chicken in a greased Baking dish. top with cheese slices. Combine soup with wine (or juice) Spoon over chicken, Sprinkle with stuffing mix. Drizzle butter over top. Bake at  350F for 1 hour. (covered for 45 minutes then uncovered the last 15 minutes.
(note: Really good company dish, according to author)

 

Billie C.
TerisCraftsNewsletter@yahoogroups.com

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Tell someone you thought about them the other day.
Put a dime in a stranger's parking meter before the time expires.
Bake a cake for a neighbor.

23. Send someone flowers to where they work.

Chicken and Broccolie Alfredo

Chicken and Broccolie Alfredo
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene
2004
1/2 pack uncooked linguine (8oz)
1 cup Broccoli
2 Tablespoons Butter
1 lb Chicken
1 can Cream of Chicken Soup
1/2 cup Milk
1/2 cup Parmeasan Cheese
1/4 teaspoon pepper
 Cook linguine as directed on package. add broccoli the last 4 minutes. Drain.
In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat, cook chicken until brown, drian.
Add soup, milk, cheese, pepper and ligunine. Cook until hot, stirring occasionally.

 

Billie C.
TerisCraftsNewsletter@yahoogroups.com

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Surprise someone with a small gift.
Leave a thank-you note for the cleaning staff at work.
Write a letter to a distant relative.

Marinated Chicken Wings

Marinated Chicken Wings
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene"
2004

 

1 1/2 cups Salad Oil
3/4 cup Soy Sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
2 1/2 teaspoons Salt
1 teaspoon Pepper
1/2 cup Wine Vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoon Parsley Flakes
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/3 cup Lemon Juice
5 lbs Chicken Wings

 

Mix first nine ingredients together well.  Pour over chicken in a shallow plastic dish with a good sealing lid. Place in refrigerator for at least 24 hours, turning entire container over occasionally so that the chicken is marinated thoroughly. Place Chicken on lightly oiled cooking sheet. Bake at 350F for 35 to 45 minutes. Turn chicken over midway through cooking. Marinade can be made ahead and stored for 3 t o4 weeks. discard used marininade. do not reuse to avoid cross contamination.

 

Billie C.
TerisCraftsNewsletter@yahoogroups.com

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Surprise someone with a small gift.
Leave a thank-you note for the cleaning staff at work.
Write a letter to a distant relative.

HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIES

 HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIES

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

INGREDIENTS:
3/4 cup solid shortening (butter flavored preferred)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
Cream shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla in large mixer bowl
at medium speed of electric mixer until light and creamy.
Cmbine flour, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture,
mixing on low speed until well blended. Cover dough and chill
1 hour, if desired, for easy rolling. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Roll half of dough at a time. Roll out dough on lightly floured
surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut in
desired shapes. Place on ungreased baking sheets. Roll leftover
pieces. Sprinkle with coloured decorations or leave plain to
decorate when cool. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes,
or until edges are light brown. (Time will vary with cookie
size.) Cool slightly, then remove to cooling rack. Cool
completely before decorating.

Yield: about 36 cookies: varies with cookie size
Categories: Cookies, Desserts, Holiday
http://www.thedailyrecipe.com

 

Billie C.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Cream_Of_Soup_Recipes/

The best gift we can give is the gift of our true appreciation and love

Tell a cashier to have a nice day.
Call your parents.
Let someone know you miss them.
Treat someone to a movie.

Year-round Egg Nog

YEAR-ROUND EGG NOG

4 cups milk, divided use
1 container (4 oz.) refrigerated egg substitute
2 tablespoons rum or brandy, if desired
1 (3.4 oz.) package vanilla instant pudding mix
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Whipped cream for garnish, if desired
Nutmeg for garnish, if desired

Place 2 cups milk, egg substitute, rum, pudding mix, and 1/4
teaspoon nutmeg in blender jar. Cover and blend at STIR until
blended, about 5 seconds.

Add remaining milk. Cover and blend at MIX until smooth, about 5 to
10 seconds.

Garnish each serving with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if
desired. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Note: Mixture will thicken slightly as is stands. Stir in 1 to 2
tablespoons milk to thin to desired consistency.

Yield: 10 (1/2 cup) servings

Good Morning

For Today... December 2, 2010

Jerry is home, today. His hip still hurts a lot and he has an upset tummy. He's had breakfast and is now back in bed, with the heat pad on his hip. He's already had to run the dogs off twice from getting into bed with him.

Our low overnight was 27. I ran a thin stream of water all night long in both the kitchen sink and the bathroom sink. Todays high is to be in the mid 50's. We have another cool down coming this weekend.

I've taken the dogs out already. Macon wasn't in much of a need but Rocky really needed that tree this morning.

Outside my door ... (6am) Still dark out. but the quarter moon is still up and that bright star is as bright as ever nearby. (9am) The sun is up and we have only a few high clouds in the sky. the camper will warm up with solar heating and the heaters will shut off soon. Almost all the leaves are off the trees now. I think the only ones still on are those that fall off in spring right before green up.

The dogs ... first "walk" went somewhat ok. Macon barked as someone else out walking. but when I saw him again. I made Macon sit and watch and as he went past us alibet far across the widest part of the driveway praised Macon big time for not barking. Wish it had lasted.. when our behind the camper neighbor was leaving, she rolled down her window to speak to me, and Macon barked again. She said sorry, and I said, I'm tring to break him from this so it's part of the training. I don't know if she wanted to say anything else or not. She left. I guess if it's important I'll hear about it. she'll either try again, or speak to Linda to speak to me. Really though, there was much less pulling now. Although Macon wants to walk with tension on the line and I'm now working on his having the line a bit slack. Rocky is soo much better and walks with the line slack more of the time, now. When both the dogs saw the Grey and white cat, they "alerted" me to it. But they didnt bark, and they both sat and watched it, when I said "sit". Oh they are doing so much better and we are getting in more walks now.

The Kittens ... are having the morning hallway races now. I took a picture earlier of one of the kittens being a nose warmer for Rocky. Soo cute.

From the kitchen... (6am) not sure just yet, what I'll be making for dinner. I have chicken and pork in the freezer. I'll ask Jerry in a bit, what he wants for dinner. IF all else fails, I'll make up a couple of packets of Remein soup and add in the chili from last week.

I am hearing... The TV is on and the heater in the living room is on.

I am wearing...(6am) dark grey sweat pants and my heavier, white top. once I take my shower, I'll change my top for a lighter top. I plan on that shower around 9:30 or so

I am reading... emails and recipes

I am thinking... (9am) What to fix for dinner. Still don't have a clue what to make,yet

I am thankful for... A nice, quiet place for us to stay for a while. and that I'm able to work with the dogs more with training them to behave better.

I am hoping... That Jerry feels better when he wakes up and that his hip will stop hurting so much.

One of my favorite things... A good moring walk. Brisk, yet sunny and pretty.

A few plans for the rest of the week... sorting the laundry for washing up, later. Need to work out a grocery list soon as well.

kitten on stuffed toy

The Kittens have discovered the dogs' toy fox. At times, all 4 are sleeping on it.

Beefy Mac

Beefy Mac

"From Our Home to Yours"

Ozark First Church of the Nazarene

2004

1 lb Ground Meat

1 medium Onion

1 can Tomato Soup

2 cups Mararoni (cooked)

1/4 cup Water

1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese

In a skillet, cook ground meat and onion until done. Pour off fat.

Add water, soup, Worcestershire, cheese ,and macaroni. Stir together. Reduce heat, heat through until cheese is melted.

fingerless gloves, Kidos' on the dogs

I wrote this yesterday in my journal.

i got to talking with a friend on the phone a bit ago, about making things and she mentioned fingerless gloves. I have a pair. I bought them for $15 at the last CoHT meeting I was able to attend. (3 years ago) they are the best for when you want your hands warm but need your fingers for doing something. (controling dogs on leads while walking) I like the idea of making them out of old sweaters. Now I need an old sweater.

Oh oh, Kudos' on my dogs today.. Very Big KODOS' We took our walk a bit early this after noon, knowing that we are going to get rain.. on our way to the trash can and mail box, taking care of three things at once. We were walking up the hill, past a drivealong camper, when, just as we were passing it, I notied a rather large German Shephard sitting outside the door. I told my two "No" and "Leave him". and that was all I had to say.. He didn't bark and my two didn't bark. and they kept walking with me as well. I was shocked they behaved so very well. They kept looking to see if he was following us to the area I potty them, then let them play with each other a few minutes each time we go that way. I didn't see that dog again. I don't know if he was taken in or if the owner walked him to a different area. We took a different route back to the camper.

http://www.savvyhousekeeping.com/?p=159



http://diyfashion.about.com/od/diyfashionfaq/f/FAQFingerGloves.htm

http://knitting.about.com/od/mittenpatterns/p/fingerless.htm

http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/how-to-make-fingerless-gloves-5887.html

http://www.suite101.com/content/how-to-make-fingerless-gloves-a208822

fingerless gloves, Kidos' on the dogs

I wrote this yesterday in my journal.

i got to talking with a friend on the phone a bit ago, about making things and she mentioned fingerless gloves. I have a pair. I bought them for $15 at the last CoHT meeting I was able to attend. (3 years ago) they are the best for when you want your hands warm but need your fingers for doing something. (controling dogs on leads while walking) I like the idea of making them out of old sweaters. Now I need an old sweater.

Oh oh, Kudos' on my dogs today.. Very Big KODOS' We took our walk a bit early this after noon, knowing that we are going to get rain.. on our way to the trash can and mail box, taking care of three things at once. We were walking up the hill, past a drivealong camper, when, just as we were passing it, I notied a rather large German Shephard sitting outside the door. I told my two "No" and "Leave him". and that was all I had to say.. He didn't bark and my two didn't bark. and they kept walking with me as well. I was shocked they behaved so very well. They kept looking to see if he was following us to the area I potty them, then let them play with each other a few minutes each time we go that way. I didn't see that dog again. I don't know if he was taken in or if the owner walked him to a different area. We took a different route back to the camper.

http://www.savvyhousekeeping.com/?p=159



http://diyfashion.about.com/od/diyfashionfaq/f/FAQFingerGloves.htm

http://knitting.about.com/od/mittenpatterns/p/fingerless.htm

http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/how-to-make-fingerless-gloves-5887.html

http://www.suite101.com/content/how-to-make-fingerless-gloves-a208822

Long Weekend is over.

Whew.. What a long, long weekend we had. Jerry had off from Wed through Sun. Wed, was a lot of running around. I "knew" we needed propane.. but I didn't expect to have to buy a new tank.. then found out the old tank is stil very, very good. So now we have two full tanks of propane. I won't need to refill for at least a year at this rate. We've been using the one tank since late March or early April. We never tried it when we had the camper last year. Dont know why, just didn't.


Jerry picked up a Garmin GPS system last week, and we had to go looking for Geocaches. So far we are 3 for 6. Two we know we were right on top of and coudnl't find at all. Since one is suppose to be the size of a ammo box is should have been easier to spot once we got in the area.

I "finally" found a way to contain the kittens while we are out. (still hving a catbox usage issue with a couple of them). I have a flexable screen I picked up last year and I hope to find another one this next spring. It's really too tall for inside but since it's flexable, it will work. I put it in the bathroom doorway with the kittens in the bath area. Using some paper clamps that are extra heavty duty (and have maganets on the back) I can clamp the sides to the partitions and the top to an edge where there use to be a folding door in here. As I've said before,I'd rather the kittens use tub than the floor and the box rather than the tub. Instead of cleaning the cat box once a day, I'm cleaning it twice a day. That should help as well.

Thanksgiving went well. the turkey cooked a bit faster than I expected it to. So we ate just a bit earlier than first planned on. But besides the turkey I had a mashed up sweet potato with a dab of butter, rasins and mini marshmellows in it. Fixed Mashed potatoes for Jerry, from scratch. Nuked Peas and Carrots, cut up green pepper, cuckumbers, carrots and had some grape sized tomatoes. Also had grapes for that touch of sweet. I also had cottage cheese, cut up cheese, olives. whole berry cranberry sauce. For our dessert I fixed a pumpkin cake by mixing in one can of pumpkin into a spice cake mix. That's it, no milk or oil or eggs added to it. I topped mine with cool whip, Jerry doesn't like cook whip or any whipped topping.


Friday, Oh man. We started off getting up around 4 am.. Jerry wanted to get me a new laptop and Walmart had one on sale that he wanted to get me.. Only no one told us we had to be at Walmart at 2 am to get an armband in order to pick it up at 5 am.. Man oh man was Jerry mad about that. We headed to the other walmart in town and it was the same story. Both on the arm band and Jerry being mad. We ended up going to Best Buy and although they had been opened about 20 minutes still had plenty of laptops. Jerry had to pay a bit more than the one at W/M but this one has a larger screen and he is happy that we got this one. I had him set it up for me. We had to pick up DVD disks so he could make the backup diskes for just in case.

Of course, I'm still learning all the new things on the window's 7 program. I'm not thrilled with it's post it note program. I'll stick with Stickies. It has more of the features I like, like hiding it and able to have it repeat day after day as I go along.

After breakfast at home. We then headed out looking for another Geocache. Got close but never found it. Finally we found one on our third search.
Back to Walmart for just looking around, that's when I got the clips for the screen to keep the cats in the back. We did some more looking around but it was still crowded. We went to the flea market, It wasn't as full as last time, and nothing new was there. I did pick up a strainer that we needed though. Jerry likes to strain his ramein soups.

We drove around a bit. Then went to Lowes. We needed to wrap our water line.. By the end, we had bought a new, shorter water line (Walmart) ,Heat tape and pipe insulation and door weather stripping t shruggs. Then another trip to Lowes for more pipe insulation cause we got the last at Shruggs had. All in all Friday was a long, but intresting day. Oh yeah.. almost forgot. We went to the Tombigbee state park. Thought it would be larger than it is. It was our second choice on campgrouds while I was searching for places. They don't have cable or wifi was the only drawback. It's a vacation spot so many people want to leave the computer and tv behind will chose a place like there. Other than that and the size it's it's a nice little park.

Saturday, we had breakfast at Ryan's, then we did more Geocaching looking, our grocry shopping for the week, plus some because we know that this next paycheck is going to be a bit short, what with Jerry having 5 days off and only three days in it. after putting the grocries away, we did the laundry. All the blankets and sheets needed washed (thanks to the cats)

We finally found one of the caches on Satureday. Jerry was so thrilled to have finally found one.

Sunday we went back to the orginal one we were looking for and still have yet to find it. WE drove the Trace for a bit, It's much like the Blue Ridge parkway and a nice drive. We stopped at the local Natchez trace office. They have a nice mural on their walls. I wish they have shown more of the women of the area.

Black Friday

Gee. I had no plans on shopping Black Friday but Jerry has.. and I get to tag along.  That's ok. Since it's Walmart and they are open I can pick up a few things I needed anyway.  I need dog food, some large clamp like paper clips and I'll cruse the clothes for large women while I'm there. He'll be in the back at Eletronic's.

 

Billie C.
http://thelifeofbilliec.blogspot.com/

Moderation, not deprivation, is the key to a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

309/274

Pumpking Cake

Wow, I just made this in my tabletop oven (roaster oven) and it's really great. So simple as well.

 

What you need, 1 box of spice cake mix. Any brand but I used Dunkin Hines. and 1 can of pure pumpkin. Not the pumpking pie filling but 100% pumpkin.. That's it;

 

I lightly sprayed two foil baking pans from the dollar store. they are just the right size for this.  preheated the oven to 350F.  Mixed the pumpking with the cake mix and poured into the pans. set them in the oven and baked for 35 minutes. I checked at 25 minutes and my toothpick did not come out clean, so I added 10 minutes, as the toothpick was really damp.  That 10 minutes was just perfect.  Toothpick came out clean. removed from the oven. and set on counter to cool.  We had just finished dinner and we had a large piece each for dessert.

 

Billie C.
http://thelifeofbilliec.blogspot.com/

Moderation, not deprivation, is the key to a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

309/274

November 23, 2010, Beef Sausage

For Today... November 23 2010.

We are under clouds today with a good chance of rain this morning but after that a quick clearing and a high in the low 70's again today. The cold weather was suppose to be here Thurdays but now it's going to be Friday that is sooo cold (if you can call a high of 45, cold)

I went to dollar tree last night and spent just over $20. A couple of Christmas items to decorate with, some foil pans to be able to bake in. A bag for the kittens to play with, and a bath mat. The Bath Mat was on my list of want to buy that I made a bit ago. I've been slowly but steadly able to remove items from that list. of course, More things go on the list but that's what it's for. Those things you think about, then forget you need, until you really need it.
　
The kittens and the dogs have been playing together. The kittens have figured out they can bat at Macon's tail.. and they also love to pounce on it, when it's moving. With Macon, that's almost all the time. This morning, two of the kittens went out the door and one was under the van. I had to open a can of catfood to get them to come back into the camper.
　
I'm think I better get up and start cleaning the camper because I expect that Jerry won't work the full 10 hours today. Seems a few of the fellows decided to leave last night to go home for Thanksgiving and the rest may leave early today.

Yep, I was right, he got off at 3:30. The dogs have done much better on their walks today. Although we didn't go as far there was little pulling. Conviencing them that not every tree is there for them to pee on... that's another story. I try to keep to dogs away from anything obviously man made, and when it comes to tree, to stay away from trees that were planted and not just wild growth. So far that is going fairly well. A good strong "NO" and they leave it.. or I'll just say "Leave It" and they look at me confused and come away. Yesterday afternoon was just not a good day for Rocky. He Just got all hyper and kept getting in Macon's way of going potty. So instead of him going for "our" walk. he got put in the kennel and I walked Macon so he could potty. Then we walked the driveways around the campground. Macon did so much better. I was even able to pick up our mail without him barking at the man who handed it to me. What an improvment over the last couple of times I tried to talk to anyone with both dogs with me.

With Jerry off work for the next 5 days. I'm going to see if he'll walk Macon and I'll walk Rocky alone and see if that helps straighten out the problems. I did go to the website my Brother recomended and the first problem I have is I have no place at all to work off leash with the dogs. No fenced in area. We have to have them on leads when we go outside the camper. We do work with a lot of Sits and Stays and I do take treats with us, sometimes but not all the time.

*********

Beef Sausage
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene
2004
1 lb Ground Beef (low fat)
1 small Onion, grated
1/4 cup cold Water
1 1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 1/2 teaspoon Marjoram, crushed
1/2 teaspoon Allspice
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
Combine all in a medium bowl. Shape into a roll, 2 /12 inch diameter and about 7 inches long. Wrap in wax paper and chill overnight.

Crock pot Apple Butter

Crock Pot Applebutter

 

I was going to post a picture of this as I made it.  I forgot and left my camera in the van last night.

 

I peeled up enough Red Delicous (sp) apples to fill my crockpot. Before I started that though, I added a cup of apple juice and a big splash of lemon juice and turned it on.  I washed tha apples as I peeded and cored them and cut them into chunks. I put the lid on and let them cook for 2 hours before stiring the first time. put the lid back on and let them cook another hour and stir another hour.  I then stirted again and they were breaking up well. Adding 1/4 cup Molasses (eyeballed it) 1/2 cup Brown Sugar, 1 teaspoon Salt and let that cook for an hour with the lid on. Removed the lid, and added in 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon, 1 teaspoon Ginger, 1 teaspoon Nutmeg and 1 teaspoon Poppy Seeds.  Let that cook with the lid off until it starts to thicken.. Taste, if it's not sweet enough add white sugar, 1/4 to 1/3 cup at a time, until it's just the right sweetness for you.   From here, I will store in the fridge in a recycled jar I have. I know you can waterbath to keep it but we eat it so fast that I don't have to put it away.

 

Billie C.
http://thelifeofbilliec.blogspot.com/

Moderation, not deprivation, is the key to a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

309/274

November 22, 2010, Beer Briskett

Doesn't Rocky look comfortable with all these kittens around him?


Good Morning. Jerry got off after 8 hours again yesterday and we did some looking around. We ended up over by the Bankcorp Arena looking for a eletronic recycle I thought I heard about on the tv. it wasn't there. A basketball game was about to start. Memphis against Louisanna. We didn't stay. We just drove around a bit after that. Jerry wanted to see where the road his job is on, goes to. So we followed it a bit. The night before, we followed the road that leads tothe road the campground is on for a bit. We see a lot of traffic on it once you get off the 4 lane and thought it went someplace.. well, yeah.. residentual areas and a country club. Ha ha. Another change... Now he'll have 5 days off work. I asked if the guy in charge ever worked for BE&K since it's very much like them in having a hard time deciding how many days everyone will work around a holiday. I bet Christmas will be just as hectic. This is one reason we don't make plans to visit anyone on the holidays. We just never know until the last minute how many days Jerry may get off.

While walking the dogs yesterday, I fell. I knew it was going to happen one of these days. I wasn't hurt, just went down on my knees (again) So I was stiff and soreish the rest of the day. I was on wet grass, on a slight slope and just as I started to slid the dogs also pulled.. They "Knew" I wasn't happy after that. I didn't hit them. but they Knew from the tone of my voice that they didn't help me any with that pulling that we had been fighting almost all the walk. Going back to the camper, they didn't pull much at all. There isn't a flat place to walk them so it's just something I have to be more aware of, is all.

(8am) Just finsihed peeling apple for Crockpot Applebutter. Got them and a splash of lemon juice and a cup of apple juice in the crock now. in about 4 hours, I'll stir and see how mushy they are.

Outside my door ... Going to be another nice day, according to the tv. High in the low 70's. May have clouds all day, though, not sure yet. last nights full mooon was lovely. Did you see it? it looked so large as it rose above the horizon. I then read that it is a Blue Moon. But not the usual about the blue moon of being the second full mooon of the month but about it leading to having 13 moons this calendar year.

Jerry found a Vanity Plate he wants to get for the Van. It says. "Get Off the Phone And Drive!" I love it.


The dogs ... Are being good. Well, almost. Macon got so excited to go out first this morning that he jumped out the door before I had his lead on him.. He came right back in and put his head through the choke chain collar we use.. but he "knew" he was in trouble and when he came back from his potty break and went straight into his kennel. Rocky was about just as excited but he waited for the collar befor running outside. First potty is just to the trees behind the camper. Walking come around between 9 am. and 10 am.

(10am) Just got back from morning walk. It was a fight all the way.. all the way to the potty area, all the way around the outside driveway and all around the inside driveway. It was pull them back or pull them faster. It was also a fight to get Macon to "hold it" until we got to a different potty area. He finally got the idea, but then Rocky didn't want to walk to the inside and I had to fight him over that, then pull Macon along, the pull Rocky back to his "place" the pull Macon again.. then pull Rocky again. They finally realized they were on my last nerve and we finally got to that potty area.. and he went in the weeds like he's suppose to. I have to do this again, this afternoon. Yikes. I sure hope the dogs figure out I'm not playing around.
　
The Kittens ... Two of them slept with Jerry most all night long. None of them slept with me, last night. Sometime yesterday, one of the found the TP and unrolled most of it onto the floor. They are sooo nosy. I have had to rebag several things I have on the kennels from where they have "explored" whats in the bag. right now. two of the kittens are asleep on Rocly's Kennel. The other two are playing "King of the Pillows" on my bed, jumping to Jerry's bed, then back to my bed, jump off, racing down the hall, jumping on the edge of the tub, racing back down the hallway and jumping at the couch (Missed) now going through the two bags holding our colas, by the door.. race back down to the bathroom... and so on.
　
From the kitchen...(7am) As soon as I finish this, I'm going to peel up some apples we picked up and start a crockpot of apple butter for Jerry. We both like it and it will go great on biscuits on Thanksgiving Morning.
(10am) Stirred the apples. They are doing great and smell wonderful even without the spices in it yet.
Think Dinner will be Ham, and mashed potatoes and salad.

I am hearing...(7 am) weather forcast on the tv. Thanksgiving day is going to be much colder as a front goes through. The kittens jumping and running and playing. Macon snorring.
I am wearing... Maroon Sweat pants, a printed top. I told Jerry, I keep forgetting when we got to Walmart that I wanted to find a couple of new tops. He said yeah, he forgets as well.



************

Beer Briskett
"From Our Home to Yours"
Ozark First Church of the Nazarene
2004

3 to 4lb Beef Brisket
Salt and Pepper
1 Onioin, sliced
1/2 cup Chili Sauce
2 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
1 clove Garlic, minced or Garlic Powder
1 can (12 oz) Beer
2 Tablespoon Flour
1/2 cup Water
Trim excess fat from brisket (important), season with salt and pepper and place in a 9 x 13 baking pan, cover with onion slices.
In a bowl, combine chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic and beer,. Pour over meat. Cover lightly with foil.
Bake for 3 1/2 hours at 350F hours. Uncover and bake 30 minutes more, basting occasionally.
Remove meat to platter, Skim off excess fat from drippings, measure liquid and add water to make 1 cup. Blend flour, and 1/2 cup water, combine with drippings in a saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, over medium heat until Thickened and bubbly. Cut meat across grain, top with a bit of the gravy.