The Vilula Tea Garden

Haute Couture for babies!

2012-01-21T19:28:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness! I stumbled on this blog watching loom knitting on Youtube and I am just astounded! Her designs look like Vogue Knitting patterns! Gorgeous...check out her blog

http://monpetitviolon.blogspot.com/.

She also has an Etsy shop for patterns...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/88002351/crochet-baby-booties-baby-ankle-boots?ref=v1_other_1

GREAT new book!

2012-01-21T12:42:00.002-05:00

Since I am a messie living in a house with practically NO storage, this book may be a lifesaver for me! I LOVE organizing books~unfortunately, I sit on the couch with a Diet Coke and read them instead of utilizing them...this one actually look like I will use it...on to Amazon to get it, quick!!!

http://kathrynbechenink.blogspot.com/

Loom Knit A Preemie Hat Start TO Finish Tutorial Knifty Knitter

2012-01-19T19:36:00.001-05:00

It's a Lifestyle, not a Diet!

2012-01-12T20:38:00.003-05:00

Well, I have joined Calorie King again...$49.00 special for the year if you join before January 31st! I joined Calorie King several years ago when I was a School Nurse in an elementary school. It really helped me stay on track to lose some weight and after Cervical Spine Surgery 2009, I lost 30 lbs. I have kept it off for two and a half years. My husband is having back trouble now and at the request of his doctor, he is eating lots of fruits and vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains and low-fat protein. We eat a bowl of old-fashioned oatmeal every morning. I put dried fruit, sliced almonds, and cinnamon and Splenda in his...I like mine without the fruit. He is losing fast, but not too fast and feels so much better already. I really need to lose 10 more lbs. to be in the healthy range for my apple build...hence, the Bento lunches...love those Bentos!

www.calorieking.com

Bento Again

2012-01-10T15:21:00.004-05:00

Haven't been doing Bento meals in a long while, but with hubby's weight-loss program and our new way of healthy eating, I decided to do it again. I have always loved Bento and really, all things Japanese for a long long time...when I lived in San Antonio twenty plus years ago, I had a dear friend named Michiko White, who taught me to love Japanese food...especially putting a tiny little cap of rice vinegar on my 'sticky' rice...so good.

Bento (a meal that is packed into a box) meals are essentially eye-candy. They are always colorful, healthy, and ever so good! Since I love to eat organic whole and clean and 'slow' foods as much as I can, this is a great way to do it, and it enables you to use portion control as well.

If you check out the 'blogs I love to visit' area of this blog, you will notice two that are dedicated to Bento...it's worth your time to link up with them. Also, on the Just Bento blog, I found that Makiko Itoh has written a great book, "Just Bento Cookbook"...it just came from Amazon via my trusty UPS man and I am dying to get into it! I already have several Bento boxes, including a Hello Kitty one my sweet daughter gave me, along with Hello Kitty chopsticks, no less! heehee

You can find Bento boxes all over the Internet, now, including Amazon...it was a little harder years ago when I was looking for one...you will find they are exceptionally low in price for you penny-pinchers ( of which most are, nowdays)...You can also go the way of the beautiful lacquer boxes that are pricier...to each his own.

Remember, a Bento box lunch is more than just a lunch...it's packed with just a little extra care and love - a pleasure to eat, look at, and enjoy...Join me on my healthy eating plan and let me know how you do! Pictures, please....you can go to Pinterest, if you haven't yet, you should, and see some beautiful Bento box lunches, too...more later!

Greek Tilapia over Wilted Spinach | Fish Recipes | Just A Pinch Recipe Club

2012-01-05T15:26:00.001-05:00

Greek Tilapia over Wilted Spinach | Fish Recipes | Just A Pinch Recipe Club

GREEK TILAPIA OVER WILTED SPINACH
Added by Scott Anderson [Chef_Scott] on Jan 8, 2011

Scott from Shepherdstown, WV (pop. 4,514) says:
This came direct from Clean Eating. The image shows cod over couscous. I simply changed the cheese to Wisconsin Feta instead of low-fat feta and substituted grapeseed oil for olive oil. The grapeseed oil takes high heat and doesn't impart any flavor thus the nature flavor of the food shines through. I like to garnish with fresh pepper and salt and lemon zest. You can also use a nice crumbly Wisconsin Blue cheese in place of the feta.

Cook time:	15 Min		Difficulty:	EASY
Prep time:	10 Min		Serves:	2

INGREDIENTS

- 2 tilapia fillets (you can substitute haddock, cod or

halibut)

- 8 sweet grape tomatoes, sliced

- 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced

- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh italian-leaf parsley

- 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice

- 2 lg shallots, diced

- 1 Tbsp grapeseed oil

- 8 oz baby spinach

- 1/3 c wisconsin feta cheese, keep 1 tbsp reserved for

garnish

- pinch fresh ground black pepper

- pinch fresh ground sea salt

- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest pieces

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven 350F. Place fillets and tomatoes in a glass baking dish. Sprinkle garlic and parsley over top and finish with lime juice. Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, saute shallots in oil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium and add spinach, cooking until wilted, about 5 minutes. Stir in feta and heat until melted and evenly distributed.

3. To serve, place 3/4 cup spinach-feta mixture on each plate and lay 1 fillet over top, finishing with half of tomatoes. Garnish with fresh cracked black pepper, salt, a few pieces of fresh lemon zest and sprinkle on reserved feta.

Could not resist sharing this....my sweet husband and I are eating LOTs of organic greens, fruit, nuts, and seeds...some healthy meat(4 oz.)or eggs most days. If we eat any carbs/starches, they are complex carbs like 1/2 baked potato, ground flaxseed, hummus, quinoa, stone-ground whole grains, and Irish oatmeal every day for breakfast. He says he has never felt better and is dropping pounds! I may drop some but right now don't want to lose more than 10 lbs...not that I am Twiggy, but I lost when I had the C-spine surgery. I had to buy all new clothes and need to stay in those clothes! Anyway, stay tuned for more healthy recipes...hope you all had a fabulous New Year!

My Mother and I are starting the year again with Kay Arthur, this time studying Jeremiah! So-o-o-o good! Check out www.preceptsforlife.com! We are also reading our Bibles through again...this time I am reading in the NIV Chronological Bible...it gives you a reading for everyday. Sometimes, I can't do that, so I try to catch up that week. I don't think it is the LAW for anyone to do it, but just never had and wanted to give it a try in 2011. I enjoyed it so much and learned so much about God that I want to do it every year, if possible...what are your thoughts? Have a great weekend! xxxPaula

Contest!!! Win This!

2012-01-02T13:29:00.003-05:00

Look at this cute mixed media painting by Kelle Arvay!.....enter the contest from her blog to win and FREE shipping anywhere! Here's the link: http://www.LittleVintageTrailer.com

Beth Moore "May His Face Shine Upon You"

2011-12-31T18:13:00.000-05:00

Welcome 2012!!!

2011-12-31T17:39:00.002-05:00

The approach of another New Year's Day always reminds me to count my blessings and share my feelings with all my friends. Thank you all for being my friends and dropping by my blog....

The LORD bless you, and keep you;

The LORD make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;

The LORD lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.

Numbers 6:25

R.I.P Ben Breedlove

2011-12-29T18:27:00.000-05:00

Make Your Sweet Pet A Bed!

2011-12-26T18:02:00.003-05:00

A lot of us have used a similar pattern to make the double-sided fleece blankets for ourselves and friends...now you can make your 'best friend' a pet bed out of the soft, comforting fleece!

In case there is someone who doesn't remember how to make this blanket, here are some easy instructions for the bed!

All you need is a yard of fabric fleece, a bag of stuffing, and a pair of scissors, and you're on your way to making a custom pet bed! I used two different patterns for each of my beds, but you can definitely make one from just one yard in one print. I had enough left to make two more beds!

Speaking of which:

I used 1 yard each of two different prints of fleece per bed. One yard will actually make two of the size I have, but you may want to make yours bigger or smaller! Also some batting to fill it. I used less than one of a bag to fill two.

Decide what size bed you want and add at least 8" all the way around. This is because we are going to cut 4" strips to tie together.

It's easiest if you cut the two layers at the same time. That way they'll be sure to line up perfectly!

First I cut the selvage edge from the fleece - it has the test printing on it.

Then I cut the fleece to half its width.

Next I measured 4" in from each corner and laid a ruler across this line.

I cut a slit every inch until it reached the ruler. This was much easier than drawing a bunch of lines first.

You will end up cutting out the corner pieces.

Starting at one corner. tie the two sides together strip by strip. Use a double knot to make sure it doesn't come undone.

Tie together all of the strips, leaving an opening large enough to stuff with the batting.

Fill the bed with batting and tie off remaining strips.

You're finished! All that's left is to introduce your pet to it's new bed. Hope you both enjoy!

Pass it on...

2011-12-20T17:29:00.000-05:00

Great Gift Idea!

2011-12-17T15:45:00.002-05:00

Ina Garten's Chipotle & Rosemary Spiced Nuts
Serves 8 to 10

When I have a little extra time before a party, I'll whip up a batch of these really delicious nuts. They're sweet, salty, and spicy--with lots of brown sugar, maple syrup, chipotle powder, and fresh rosemary. Roasting is the process that brings out the most flavor in nuts, and serving them warm is a particularly nice touch...Ina Garten

INGREDIENTS:

Vegetable oil

3 cups whole roasted unsalted cashews (14 ounces)
2 cups whole walnut halves (7 ounces)
2 cups whole pecan halves (7 ounces)
1/2 cup whole almonds (3 ounces)
1⁄3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder
4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves, divided
Kosher salt

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Brush a sheet pan generously with vegetable oil. Combine the cashews, walnuts, pecans, almonds, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, the maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, and chipotle powder on the sheet pan. Toss to coat the nuts evenly. Add 2 tablespoons of the rosemary and 2 teaspoons of salt and toss again.

Spread the nuts in one layer. Roast the nuts for 25 minutes, stirring twice with a large metal spatula, until the nuts are glazed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 2 more teaspoons of salt and the remaining 2 tablespoons of rosemary.

Toss well and set aside at room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking as they cool. Taste for seasoning. Serve warm or cool completely and store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Chipotle chile powder is different from ordinary chili powder-- it's ground dried smoked jalapeños and has a distinctive hot, smoky, sweet flavor.

So good and so easy

That's My King!

2011-12-15T22:44:00.001-05:00

We celebrate Christmas as the birth of a little baby in a manger...but, believe me when I say...He's my KING!!! Do you know Him?

The Amazing Skidboot

2011-12-15T12:57:00.001-05:00

I absolutely love this man and his dog! Even if you aren't a dog-lover, you will, too!

Christopher Walken Christmas

2011-12-10T18:46:00.002-05:00

Maybe you don't know, but my husband knows I just LOVE Christopher Walken! I was so tickled to see this on FB...hahaha. Have had so much fun with friends this weekend...now for Christmas Party with my honey! Will be glad to stay home for a few days!!!!!

All I Want For Christmas - HMS OCEAN

2011-12-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

Christmas

2011-12-07T10:54:00.002-05:00

Home from my little Mother's house...she had a basal cell carcinoma removed from her Right nostril, so I went to take her to Out-patient surgery and then stay with her few days...what a privilege to be there to help her in the house, buy a few little things she would do without...honestly, my Mother is an absolute angel. And thank you all for your prayers for her...still working on training my little Gunney...he is such a handful; stubborn is not sufficient a word to describe him...but those doggie kisses are so sweet! I love being home. Love my tacky Christmas decorations and just being at home here with the doggies while my Mister is at work...Life is good.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-01T13:43:00.002-05:00

Today is the first day of December, and for me the beginning of the Christmas Season...my cards are mailed, Christmas music, especially Soulful Christmas by Aaron Neville (THAT VOICE!!!) is playing...now to decorate! I am going through Revelation with my mother and Kay Arthur - so rich...Life Is Good...I have problems and concerns in my life, as I'm sure most of you do, but with the strength of my Lord, I can get through anything. Hope you are having a good week, friends.

Down To The River To Pray - Alison Krauss

2011-11-26T18:18:00.000-05:00

I love this movie!!!

2011-11-26T18:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T20:11:00.002-05:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving...I have so much to be thankful for...how 'bout you?

The New Man In My Life!

2011-11-16T21:48:00.002-05:00

Here he is...little Gunther! That's his sister beside him...my friend, Heidi, asked me about the Dachshund Rescue organization that my daughter got Rufus from. He belonged to her daughter who was seven months pregnant with her first baby. She worked long hours, and to top it off, her husband was overseas for a year! Both doxies were too much for her, even though she was terribly torn about giving the little rambunctious boy up...

When my husband saw this picture, he said, "I want him!" So we gave it a trial...he was a trial at first, heehee! He bit Maggie, our other sweet furbaby...piddled everywhere and was obsessed with his toy and wanted to chase and chase and chase...well, you get the picture. Thankfully, he was trained to the crate, so he had periods of play with me, time out in the crate, and otherwise, he was with me constantly with his leash tied around my waist. He learned "NO" meant "NO". He calmed down and has been doing much better...Now, if I could train my husband to keep that structure with him...but, oh well. He (both) is a keeper! More later...

Country Living Fair 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia

2011-11-12T10:55:00.006-05:00

This is a picture from last year of me and Amy Barickman, fabric designer and owner of The Vintage Workshop and Indygo Junction. She had a workshop at the Country Living Fair (the first one in Atlanta)in 2010...I had shown her what I did with some of her designs on my vintage denim vest...

This year at CLF, I was sick and didn't get to go....I hate that!!! The following are pictures of the two Sisters on the fly campers that were featured this time...here's Dealia Jo, the little fishing cottage camper of Debbie Facer...isn't it just the best? It is hand painted by an artist here in Atlanta...
and, here is the Bookmobile camper belonging to Rebecca Amerson...she is a retired Media Specialist (we used to say Librarian) with a school system...her first job was on a bookmobile! Hers is also hand painted by a local artist...gorgeous!

You go, girl!!!

2011-11-11T19:29:00.002-05:00

Too good not to share...

2011-11-09T12:42:00.001-05:00

Seven Tips to Stay Sane at Work

JVHS 45th Class Reunion

2011-10-31T19:42:00.004-04:00

I am telling my age, but I attended my 45th Class Reunion of the 1966 Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, Georgia this weekend...what a great time! Here are a few of my best buddies from high school and some from Kindergarten on! Since I lived out of state so many years, I lost touch with some of them...so sweet to see them again!

This is a childhood friend that lived one door down in my neighborhood from Kindergarten.
Best Best Friends forever!
Dancin' the night away!
More of the same!

Alan Jackson - I Want To Stroll Over Heaven With You

2011-10-25T13:36:00.000-04:00

Overnight Crock Pot Apple Butter

2011-10-22T18:03:00.002-04:00

Cook up a batch of the tastiest apple butter in no time by making it in a slow cooker with this recipe from Amy Traverso, author of "The Apple Lover's Cookbook."

Yield
Makes 6 pint jars or 12 1/2-pint jars

Ingredients

5 pounds (about 10 large) mixed apples, peeled, cored, and cut into medium-size pieces
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 whole star anise pod
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
2 cups fresh apple cider
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Directions

Turn a slow cooker on high and add all ingredients. Cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Mixture should be bubbling vigorously. Reduce heat to low and cook for 1 hour more. Remove and discard star anise pod.
With the lid set slightly ajar, continue cooking until apple butter is dark brown and thick, 7 to 9 hours more. Stir well and pass through a food mill or strainer, if necessary to remove any lumps.
Place six clean 1-pint or twelve clean 1/2-pint jars right side up on a rack in a boiling-water canner. Fill canner and jars with hot water, about 1 inch above tops of jars. Bring jars to a boil over high heat; boil for 10 minutes. Using a jar lifter, remove and drain hot sterilized jars one at a time, reserving hot water for processing filled jars. Place jars on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
In another large pot filled with water, bring to a boil over high heat and reduce to a simmer, then add clean lids and lid rings. Simmer lids for 10 minutes; do not boil, as this may cause problems in sealing jars. Drain lids and set aside.
Divide apple butter evenly among sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space at top of each jar. Using tongs, place lids on jars. Using your hands, place rings on jars and tighten (but do not overtighten). Reheat water in the canner until it reaches at least 180 degrees, within 10 minutes of filling the jars. Place filled jars into the canner, one at a time, using a jar lifter securely positioned below neck of jar. Keep jars upright at all times.
Add more boiling water, if needed, so that water covers jars by at least 1 inch. Increase heat to high and cover. Once water begins boiling, heat jars for 10 minutes. Turn off heat and gently transfer jars to a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, taking care not to tilt jars and spacing each jar at least 1 inch apart. Avoid placing jars on a cold surface or near a cold draft.
Let jars sit undisturbed until fully cooled, 12 to 24 hours. Do not tighten ring bands on the lids or push down on the center of the flat metal lid until jars have cooled completely.
Once jars have cooled completely, test to make sure each jar is completely sealed: Press down on the middle of the lid with a finger. If lid springs up when finger is released, jar is unsealed. Store sealed jars in a cool place. If any of the jars are unsealed, store in refrigerator and use within several days.

October

2011-10-04T11:01:00.001-04:00

Well, leaves are starting to turn here in Georgia...I am packing up to go to Ft. Payne, Alabama, to camp at Sequoia Caverns campground with my Sister friends....fun to be had! Enjoy this song by the incomparable Eric Clapton and think about us eating homemade biscuits made by Anita and Karen over the campfire, topped by Sorgum syrup furnished by Roy at the campground...yum! Yes, I am bad bad bad...heehee. Wish you could all go with me...

Original Nilla Banana Pudding from Anita

2011-09-15T00:03:00.005-04:00

Okay...here is the original Banana Pudding from Anita...she says my other recipe post was not the best!

Prep Time:30 min

Total Time:50 min

12 servings, 2/3 cup each

Ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar, divided

1/3 cup flour (use all purpose--not self-rising)

dash salt

3 eggs, separated

2 1/4 cups milk

1/2 tsp. vanilla

45 NILLA Wafers, divided

2 or 3 bananas, sliced

Preparation:

MIX 1/2 cup sugar, flour and salt in top of double boiler(you don't have to use a double boiler if you have a good heavy pan and stir constantly). Blend in 3 egg yolks and milk. Cook, uncovered, over boiling water 10 to 12 min. or until thickened, stirring constantly. (I do it they way the original recipe said which is to add the milk and cook till begins to thicken--then TEMPER the eggs with a little of the mixture--then add tempered eggs to pudding and cook 1 minute more. Then Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.

RESERVE 12 wafers for garnish. Spread small amount of custard onto bottom of 1-1/2-qt. baking dish. Cover with layers of 1/3 each of the remaining wafers, bananas and remaining custard. Repeat layers 2 times.

BEAT egg whites on high speed of mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in remaining sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over custard, sealing well to edge of dish.

BAKE 15 to 20 min. or until lightly browned. Cool slightly. Top with reserved wafers just before serving.

She likes to let it sit 15 or 20 minutes so the vanilla wafers can soften...I totally agree!!!

Hold tight to your friends--have fun when you can--laugh every day--eat the dessert!

Diamond Rio In God We Still Trust

2011-09-13T22:49:00.000-04:00

Fall Creek Falls and Trackrock for Camping!!!

2011-09-13T20:58:00.003-04:00

My husband and I are heading out to Tennessee to Fall Creek Falls State Park! We will be camping at their campgrounds and we can't wait! I found this video on YouTube and of course, it's not my video or my voice, but wanted to show you a little bit of it...

Fall Creek Falls State Resort Park is one of the most scenic and spectacular recreation areas in America. Its waterfalls, cascades, sparkling streams, gorges, timberland and an unmatched variety of recreation facilities and activities have made it one of the most popular parks in the Southeast. Fall Creek Falls is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, plunging 256 feet into a shaded pool at the base of its gorge. The park's other falls, (Piney, Cane Creek and Cane Creek Cascades), though smaller, are just as impressive.

The oak and hickory forest that covers most of the park gives way to tulip poplar and hemlock forest in the gorges. The plants and animals of the moist, protected gorges are not unlike the species found in southern Canada. Mountain laurel and rhododendron are abundant throughout the park, as are other plants and animals. (from Tennessee State Park website)

Then, on to Trackrock Campground for a Sisters on the fly trip...it is near Blairsville, GA, and Brasstowne Bald, which is the highest point in Georgia. There will be a lot of us camping and have a fish fry planned, along with lots of other fun things! Will post photos when I get back. http://www.trackrock.com/

Carla's Tortilla Soup

2011-09-04T16:33:00.001-04:00

Chef Carla Hall was a finalist on season five of Bravo's hot series, Top Chef and Top Chef All-Stars, but actually had no intention of becoming a cook! She majored in accounting in college and then modeled in Europe, where she discovered her love for cooking...

Here is a great recipe that includes two favorite ingredients: Lime and Tortilla chips!

1 Tbs. vegetable oil

1 large white onion, finely diced

4 medium cloves garlic, crushed

1 jalapeno chile, diced

1 poblano chili, roasted and diced (be careful with the chilis...don't rub your eyes!)

1 16 oz. can diced fire-roasted tomatos (or use up those last ones from the garden)

2 tsp. dried oregano

2 tsp. cumin

salt and pepper to taste

8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1/2 bag tortilla chips, broken up (we like the lime-flavored ones)

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 ear fresh corn (shucked, roasted, and cut off the cob)

1 zucchini, diced and sauted

Garnishes:

1 lime, cut into wedges

1 avocado, diced

8 ozs. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded or finely diced

Tortilla chips

Mexican crema, or sour cream mixed with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste

ONE Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Saute onion for 5 minutes, then add garlic and chiles. Add diced tomatoes and spices; season with salt and pepper. Add broth, bring to boil then reduce heat. Simmer about 25 minutes.

TWO Add tortillas to tomato base and simmer until the chips dissolve. Add black beans, corn and zucchini. Adjust seasoning with salt.

THREE Serve hot with garnishes

To make it a little more substantial, we add meat from a roasted chicken we picked up at our favorite store. Just shred and add at the end! And if you are in a hurry, as I was today, I used some canned corn and a can of Rotel tomatoes! You can't mess this up, I promise!

Enjoy!

Old Fashioned Banana Pudding just like Mother used to make!

2011-08-28T23:57:00.006-04:00

I went to my friend Anita's house today to work on some things for our Sisters on the fly campout coming up in October...she left me for about 15 minutes to make a banana pudding! By far the best I have ever had...well, she rattled out the ingredients too quickly for me to remember and told me to look it up online! Right! Here it is, or as close to what she told me (and I can remember). Believe it or not, I was raised on banana pudding along with pound cakes and "butternut cake" and I have never made a banana pudding from scratch! Please don't tell anybody, teehee, as you HAVE to know how to make one in order to be a Southern Lady!

Here goes:

OLD FASHIONED BANANA PUDDING

Ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup self-rising flour
2 cups milk, low fat or whole
2 eggs, separated
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
vanilla wafer cookies
3 bananas, ripe but firm
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Preparation:

Combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar, the salt, and the self-rising flour in a bowl.

Slowly stir in milk. Put mixture in top of double boiler over simmering water and cook until mixture begins to thicken. Beat egg yolks then briskly stir a small amount of the hot mixture (about 1/2 cup) into them. Add egg yolk mixture back into the hot mixture in top of double boiler and stir in butter and vanilla. Cook until mixture thickens again.

Place a layer of vanilla wafers in an 11x7-inch baking dish (or other shape 2-quart shallow baking dish). Add half of the sliced bananas. Pour half of pudding mixture over banana layer. Repeat layers, ending with remaining pudding. In a mixing bowl beat egg whites until foamy; gradually beat in 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cream of tartar. Beat until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over pudding. Bake at 350° until browned completely. Remove from oven. Serve hot or cold.
Serves 6 to 8.

Good advice from an email!

2011-08-27T22:06:00.004-04:00

This didn't load properly, but hopefully you can get the gist of it! My mother sent this to me and some of you may have already seen it, but I wanted to keep this list, so I posted it here for you, too!

Good advice: 'Never borrow from the future. If you worry about what may happen tomorrow and it doesn't happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it does happen, you have to worry twice.'

More good advice:

1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
4. Say "No!" to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and unclutter your life.
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things together.

10. Take one day at a time.

11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13.. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.
14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the Kid in You every day.
16. Carry a spiritually enlightening book with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life..
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25.Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus .'
27. Laugh!
28. Laugh some more!
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31.. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you're never been grateful for before.

'If God is for us, who can be against us?'

(Romans 8:31)

For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son...

2011-08-26T15:17:00.001-04:00

For those of you who may be interested, check out Kay Arthur's broadcast today...

http://www.lightsource.com/ministry/precepts/

We Bee Junkin'

2011-08-13T17:40:00.009-04:00

...check out my new blog...if you are interested in sustainable living, junkin' (even dumpster divin')...this blog might interest you. My friend and I have started a crafting guild and the blog will be full of tips, pix of your creations, recipes, and even some tutorials...more fun to come!

Here's the link: http://www.busybiddies.blogspot.com/

The Pioneer Woman

2011-08-12T22:05:00.002-04:00

Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman hosts one of my favorite blogs ever...I have been reading her posts since she started. Now, as if it couldn't get any better, she has her own cooking show on the Food Network! I don't know about you, but I am going to be watching. Check it out:

http://thepioneerwoman.com/details-on-the-food-network-show/

Camping at Cheaha Mountain State Park in Alabama

2011-08-02T22:48:00.003-04:00

Here we are camping at Cheaha State Park in Alabama...beautiful beautiful spot! Has a pool built out over the bluff and looks out for miles! Cheaha Mountain is the highest spot in Alabama. More to come! Check it out: http://www.alapark.com/cheaharesort/

My son Lee

2011-08-01T17:19:00.001-04:00

Photos attached from Sunday's trip on the Cape Fear river (NC)

He caught four blue catfish from a 12' kayak:
(2) 10 lbs, (1) 12 lb & a 19lb 6oz

The friends that he went with are guides on this river, and perfected (8 yrs in the making) how to do this - from what kind of boat they use, to the bait and rig (line, hook, cork, etc.) The Cape Fear is very shallow, so a canoe has been the only way to fish most spots we were at, until the fishing kayak has evolved.

"So since I haven't had a big day catching in quite a while, I'm proud to say that I caught the most fish and the biggest fish of the day against the "Masters.""

That's my boy!

Tomato Pie!

2011-07-29T22:04:00.002-04:00

Tomato Pie

Recipe courtesy Paula Deen

Prep Time:: 20 min
Inactive Prep Time:: 10 min
Cook Time:: 45 min

Level:: Easy

Serves:: 6 servings

Ingredients

4 tomatoes, peeled and sliced
10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1 (9-inch) prebaked deep dish pie shell
1 cup grated mozzarella
1 cup grated cheddar
1 cup mayonnaise
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the tomatoes in a colander in the sink in 1 layer. Sprinkle with salt and allow to drain for 10 minutes.

Layer the tomato slices, basil, and onion in pie shell. Season with salt and pepper. Combine the grated cheeses and mayonnaise together. Spread mixture on top of the tomatoes and bake for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

To serve, cut into slices and serve warm.

I have really enjoyed all the delicious tomatoes from my three plants this summer...for those of you who are tired of BLTs (except who could ever get tired of BLTs?) try this recipe! It is not diet-friendly, though, if you are trying to lose weight...you could use low-fat or non-fat mayo, but you might as well go ahead and just enjoy it like it is! Tomato season comes once a year where I live!

My Journey

2011-07-18T12:59:00.004-04:00

For those of you who have been following me for awhile, I guess you can tell that I am posting a lot of Christian things...not trying to proselytize, per se, just share with you this part of my life as I have shared so many other things. In reading the Bible through in a year with my Mother (who lives in another town), I really got interested in the history of Israel and the Middle East as compared with what is going on now. I become so interested, I hated to stop in that day and sometimes went forward two or three days! I then remembered Kay Arthur, and Precept Ministries (I used to watch her on TV many years ago, when I lived in Texas) and Googled it. She has a free online Bible Study with daily Broadcasts on TV and online...there you have it! I have been going through Isaiah chapter by chapter...and precept by precept. My Mother and I are enjoying this so much and we wish we had started our search in the Bible many years ago...but, we are sharing this now. For those of you who are not Christians, this is a good way to find out what the Bible really says about things and learn who God is and what He is really like ; for those who are Christians, this is a great tool to actually understand the Bible and the big picture! Anyway, you are all welcome to come with Mother and me on our journey...Feel free to comment your views...but be kind and respectful, always!!!

Take time to stop and think...

2011-07-08T13:28:00.001-04:00

Kay Arthur - Pt 2 - The Truth About Sex According to God

2011-07-06T16:43:00.000-04:00

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T13:46:00.003-04:00

One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, One Nation evermore!
Oliver Wendell Holmes

Here's a Fourth of July Recipe for you:

Ingredients

1/2 (15 ounce) package pretzels, crushed
1 cup margarine, melted
1/4 cup white sugar
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup white sugar
2 cups boiling water
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen strawberries, thawed
1 (6 ounce) package strawberry flavored gelatin

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted margarine, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press mixture into a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, frozen whipped topping, and 1 cup sugar. Pour over pretzel crust.
In a large saucepan, combine boiling water and strawberry-flavored gelatin; bring to a boil. Stir in frozen strawberries. When it begins to thicken, pour over cream cheese filling. Serve.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 468 | Total Fat: 28.7g | Cholesterol: 22mg

Update on Rufus

2011-06-27T12:54:00.001-04:00

FYI

My little man is back to his smiling self! Thank you for your thoughts and prayers!

Rufus

2011-06-23T15:47:00.001-04:00

Rufus
Originally uploaded by nursdurkin

Rufus

2011-06-23T15:46:00.001-04:00

Rufus
Originally uploaded by nursdurkin

rufus

2011-06-23T15:45:00.001-04:00

rufus
Originally uploaded by nursdurkin

Here are some pix of the poor little man!

Update on Rufus

2011-06-23T11:58:00.003-04:00

As of this morning, Rufus is swollen all over and his belly is ponderous and hanging down with swelling, looking like a bruised, water-filled balloon. He is eating chicken, moving more and did go outside and used the bathroom to urinate...has not had a bowel movement, yet. He is rubbing his face and licking it. He is still one sick puppy...I'm giving him his antibiotics, Metacam, and rubbing DMSO with corticosteroid on his swollen area and wound every 12 hours as prescribed. More later...if this wasn't a bad bite, I would hate to see one! By the way, thanks Tango...

Please watch your step!!!

2011-06-22T16:42:00.005-04:00

These pictures are not of the actual snake but look exactly like the one that bit my Rufus yesterday morning!

Rufus, my male standard doxie was hunting in the ivy next to the back porch like he does every time he goes outside...no matter how many times I scold him for it! Roxy, the little girl on his right (she is 13 years old now) was close by. We just happened to be outside and I saw the whole thing...I did not see the snake at the time, but knew from Rufus' reaction what had happened. My husband and I took a walking stick and a shovel and poked and poked around the area where Rufus was attacked. After a few minutes, lo and behold, a beautiful snake's back appeared. Here was the culprit! This is also the area that I go through to turn on the hose to water my tomatoes every day...

Needless to say, we rushed him to the Vet as fast as we could. By the time I picked him up at 5:00 p.m., he was horribly swollen-he looked like a huge pot-bellied pig around his head and neck!

This is the second time a precious pet of mine has been bitten by a Copperhead snake...our Bailey (a Schnauzer who has since passed away of old age) was bitten twice on her snout and had a terrible time, as well! Thankfully, this was years ago. I was almost bitten a few years ago, myself! I have been reading today about all the dogs that have been bitten by these snakes and according to all the reports, all you have to do is give them an antihistamine and they will be good as new the next day...with little or no pain and minimal swelling! NOT!!! Please be very careful where you step...watch out for your animals and even more for your children!!! They can hide and be invisible...we did not see the snake until it appeared like magic in the ivy! People rarely die from being bitten by these snakes, but the damage is still pretty bad...extreme pain and scarring and sometimes loss of use of the appendage, as in fingers or toes...not to mention high chance of secondary infection. Here's the old nurse talking...sorry!

I would never kill any snake I see, as some people do; I actually like non-poisonous snakes - snakes are valuable in that they do a great service in our ecosystem -but, the way I see it...this snake hurt one of my family so it was destroyed! What do you think?

Great Summer recipes coming up!

2011-06-11T20:34:00.004-04:00

Marinated Peppers

Ingredients

1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
1 1/2 cloves garlic, sliced
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the whole red, green and yellow peppers in the oven directly on the rack. Roast for about 15 minutes, turning if needed, until the skin is well scorched. Immediately place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or in a paper bag, and allow to cool.
Remove the skins from the peppers by rubbing with your hands, and rinse under cold water. Cut in half, remove stem and seeds, then cut into strips.
Place peppers into a medium serving bowl, and stir in the garlic, vinegar, oil, basil, parsley, salt and pepper.
It's summer here in Georgia and many of us are grilling outside and inviting guests...this recipe is a good appetizer and is even better on slices of Italian bread rubbed with garlic and olive oil and toasted on the grill before adding the peppers!

My Journey-Precept by Precept

2011-06-04T08:56:00.003-04:00

I am on a journey to know God and the Bible. I had watched Kay Arthur and Precept Ministries years ago, when I lived in Texas, and loved her teaching style...in reading the Bible through in a year with my Mother, I really got interested in understanding the big picture, not just a verse here and a verse there. I just happened to catch a broadcast of Kay going through the book of Isaiah on t.v. I remembered Precept Ministries and went to the link and started the online Bible study of Isaiah. Instead of watching the daily broadcast (they send the link every day by email), I started in the broadcast archives at the beginning, watching each 30 minute segment...it is a 14 week study. You can download the free study guide, or purchase the whole shebang! I have learned SO much! I am also learning discipline, which I sadly lack...I can't wait to get up each day and dig in, again! Come join me! http://www.precept.org/site/PageServer?pagename=brd_PFL_overview

As I continue studying, I'll post about it here and there...by the way, I am almost ready to get my chickens! I have talked to people and researched the best way to do it in a neighborhood (I have an acre) and I am so excited! I have to have a place for them first, and then I will be on my way! I have a wonderful life!

Tornado at the RexView Drive-In

2011-06-01T18:09:00.003-04:00

This is my Mother's account of a tornado that happened on April 18th 1953 in Columbus, Ga. It destroyed the RexView Drive-In in town. “This was the only time I ever saw my husband, Bill, pace back and forth from the front of the house to the back. The wind and rain was going straight across instead of up and down. I sat on the couch holding Debbie and had Paula on the other side of me. After it was over with we could not get through to my sister, Johnnie, and her family to see how they were because the phones were down. The direct hit was in the northern part of the city and most of the damage was in North Highlands, if I remember correctly. The main thing that I thought about after this happened was how we all piled into the car with our ice tea and popcorn (popped at home) and lit out for the Rex View and all got in for a dollar. I remember you had to be a certain age and since Barbara was tall she always sat crunched up in the back seat with Paula & Debbie giggling. We did enjoy it and it is interesting what a great time we all could have with that dollar! Sometimes we had a little extra and you all could go to the concession stand and get a piece of candy for each of you. Incidentally, that Sunday was my and Bill's anniversary.

http://www.columbusgeorgiaonline.com/drive_in_chapter1.htm

R. Carlos Nakai - Canyon Reverie

2011-06-01T10:51:00.003-04:00

One of my very favorites...R. Carlos Nakai, of Navajo/Ute origin....I am still practicing my Native American Spirit flute... check out the picture and info here about the flutes and Odell Borg, who makes them, if you are interested: http://www.highspirits.com/mcart/index.cgi?code=3&cat=16 if only I could ever aspire to make it sound like this...I feel I am on a journey. I am digging into the Word with Kay Arthur of Precept Ministries http://www.precept.org/site/PageServer?pagename=brd_PFL_overview and
I bought the new Inductive Study Bible NASV and I absolutely love it! Also, spent a few days with my husband and his family in East Point, FL at Sportsman's Lodge and really enjoyed it! The people there were great and when Bob (the owner) heard me playing this music, he said he loved it, too...he has a Spirit place there, and gave me the words "Love, Light, Spirit, Freedom, Faith". He gave me a thousands year old rock, encrusted with shells and said the Spirit told him it was for me...how neat is that? I brought it home and put it in a place of honor by my little goldfish and frog pond! Life is indeed good!

New Friend

2011-05-22T12:24:00.003-04:00

This is Corby Winters, aka The Little Black Dress! Believe it or not, I met her at the Lancome counter at Belk's department store when my daughter was helping her with a product...I loved her immediately!

She is a mighty woman of God and isn't afraid to tell you! What fun...we discussed the Lord, as well as our love for shoes, handbags, and everything else! I would encourage you to check out her website - you will be so glad you did!

Go to www.corbywinters.com

Live Life To The Fullest!

2011-05-21T01:01:00.003-04:00

Live in the Sunshine,

swim in the sea,

Drink the wild air!

Ralph Waldo Emerson

My Daughter

2011-05-18T15:12:00.012-04:00

Here's a little bit about my daughter, Robyn a.k.a. Fluffy... She is a Free-Lance Make-up Artist and has done some photo-shoots and make-up for several commercials! She has such a passion for this and hopes to 'quit her day job' at Lancome Cosmetics and do this full time in the future...

Just look at these girls! I think she did a great job with the modern 60's interpretation of the make-up!

Here's another one...Here's my girl...isn't she beautiful?

I'm growing tomatoes!

2011-05-14T14:18:00.007-04:00

I am so excited! This is the first time I have been able to successfully grow tomatoes (for shame, I know, I do live in the South, after all)! My friend Laura told me how to put them in the garbage cans because I am unable to dig in the compacted soil in my yard...I used Miracle Grow soil with the fertilizer in it and look at this!

An article online said to pinch the little shoots between each junction of two stems, so I have been doing that...

This is the Goliath Bush Tomato plant. It has dark green leaves and stems and is so vigorous looking! The other ones are Big Boy and Better Boy plants. I think the Goliath plant is my favorite! I love the smell of the leaves when I pinch the little shoots back every few days...I can't wait to harvest these tomatoes when they ripen and have my favorite tomato sandwich with lots of pepper! I hope I will have lots to give away, too!

This little lizard is eating the bugs around my black garbage can compost bin...I am also growing cilantro, parsley, sage, chives, basil, and flowers in pots! I am listening to and looking at the rain coming down right now...hope your garden is doing well! More photos to come...

Sisters on the fly in Appaloosa Journal Magazine!

2011-05-10T22:05:00.002-04:00

http://www.appaloosajournal.com/2011/05/sisters-on-the-fly/

Check out the May Issue of Appaloosa Journal Magazine for an article about my camping group! I can't believe my picture is in it! Also, we will be in "O" magazine in the June issue (I think!)...too much fun!

My sweet Mother and baby sister...

2011-05-09T11:03:00.002-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T15:38:00.002-04:00

While we honor all our mothers
with words of love and praise.
While we tell about their goodness
and their kind and loving ways.
We should also think of Grandma,
she's a mother too, you see....
For she mothered my dear mother
as my mother mothers me.
Author Unknown

I have the best Mother in the world! Enjoyed my Mother's Day...hope your day is wonderful! xxx

2011-05-05T21:44:00.001-04:00

This is my son Lee...caught this whopper on West Point Lake today!!! No fish was harmed...he caught and released; although we had fish at Ruby Tuesdays afterward for my Mother's Day supper!

Martha & The Vandellas "Dancing in the Streets"

2011-05-02T13:27:00.000-04:00

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on the Fifth of May with friends!

2011-05-01T20:52:00.004-04:00

Every Monday, some of my friends and I meet at a local Mexican restaurant for Fajita Monday...we always get the same thing...either steak or chicken or mixed fajitas! Anita and I always pig-out on a huge Guacamole we share....so good! Since most of you can't join us, have a Cinco de Mayo party and invite some friends...what would we do without our Sistas and some good food, right? There's just something about breaking bread together...wouldn't miss it. By the way, I have an herb garden in my backyard and for those of you that love Mexican food like I do, plant some Cilantro...it's as easy to grow as Parsley and it adds SO much to the dishes you make.

To start out your party, try this recipe from Rachel Ray...Super Nachos...

Ingredients

2 bags corn tortilla chips in 2 colors or different flavors, such as blue corn, red corn, yellow corn, lime flavored, chili flavored or black bean chips -- pick 2 favorites

Pico de Gallo Salsa:

4 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped, for medium to hot heat level
1 small white onion, chopped
1/4 cup, 2 handfuls, cilantro leaves, finely chopped -- substitute parsley if cilantro is not to your liking
Salt

Beef and Beans Topping:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound ground sirloin
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons dark chili powder
1 1/2 ground cumin, half a palmful
2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper sauce, giving you medium to hot heat level
1 can black beans, 15 ounces, drained

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
3/4 pound pepper jack cheese, shredded, about 2 1/2 cups

Additional toppings to choose from, optional:

Sour cream
Chopped scallions
Chopped black olives
Diced pimento
Sliced avocado, dressed with lemon juice
Hot pepper sauces

Directions

Arrange a mixture of 2 varieties of corn chips on a very large platter or use your broiler pan as a platter.

Combine salsa ingredients in a bowl and set aside for flavors to marry.

Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add oil, garlic, onion and peppers to the pan and saute 2 minutes, then add meat and crumble with wooden spoon. Season meat with salt, chili powder, cumin and cayenne pepper sauce. Cook meat 5 minutes, then stir in beans and reduce heat to low.

In a medium sauce pot, melt butter and add flour to it. Cook flour and butter 1 to 2 minutes over moderate heat, then whisk in milk. When milk comes to a bubble, stir in cheese with a wooden spoon. Remove cheese sauce from the heat.

Pour cheese sauce evenly over the massive spread of chips and top evenly with beef and beans and the pico de gallo. UBER NACHOS! Serve immediately as is or, garnish with your choice of extra toppings from the toppings list.

Hope your Easter was nice...

2011-04-25T11:32:00.002-04:00

I hope your Easter was a nice one...it was a beautiful day here in Georgia. Lunch with friends and their family and phone calls to mine who live in another town...Thank you Lord Jesus for dying for our sins and thank you that you arose!

The World Famous Breakfast Club

2011-04-20T21:33:00.002-04:00

http://www.tybeeisland.com/dining/brclub/Default.htm
One of the best things I enjoyed on Tybee Island was breakfast at the "World Famous Breakfast Club"! The hostess was rude, the line was long and it was great! You have to wait outside for all your party to get in line before they will let you in...BUT, once you do get in and find a seat in the tiny restaurant....WOW! As a Southerner, I know grits...as a matter of fact, Pine Mountain Speckled Grits are my favorite and I keep them on hand, but the grits there were the best I ever had! No kidding! The friends that were with me had Omelets and said they were outstanding...the Waffle had cinnamon in the batter and was absolutely perfect...crispy on the outside and fluffy and tender in the middle. Needless to say, during my week there, I had to go back again...go to the link and read all about it and if you are ever in Savannah, make the trip to Tybee and go there!

Here's a recipe that I am going to try and see if it can compare to that waffle...I am going to use my sister's ancient vintage waffle maker...I'll let you know how it is.

OLD FASHIONED WAFFLES

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 eggs, separated
1 1/2 cups warm milk
1/3 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, baking powder and sugar; set aside. Preheat waffle iron to desired temperature.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Stir in the milk, butter and vanilla. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture; beat until blended. Whip egg whites and gently fold into batter.
Ladle the batter into a preheated waffle iron. Cook the waffles until golden and crisp. Let the waffle rest a minute on a paper towel...this keeps it from becoming soggy and keeps it crisp.
Makes five waffles...

Queen in the Hive

2011-04-18T16:49:00.001-04:00

Well, here I am at the Savannah Bee Factory...the Queen Bee in the Bee Hive, heehee! What a fun time camping with my Sisters on the fly at Tybee Island! The picture is tiny and can't figure out how to make it bigger...hope you can see it...

Tybee Island Trailer Tour

2011-04-13T21:31:00.006-04:00

Boy, did we have a great time at River Bend Campground at Tybee Island, Georgia. The Southern Sisters on the fly had a trailer tour to raise money for the historical Tybee Post Theater Restoration. We helped raise $5,000.00. For those of you who might be interested, you can look at trailer pictures on my Facebook page and on the Tybee Island Facebook page. The River Bend Campground also has a Facebook page showing pictures of the campers...as we always say: "we have more fun than anyone!"

http://www.wtoc.com/global/story.asp?s=14433559

Native American - Amazing Grace (in cherokee)

2011-04-12T16:14:00.000-04:00

Tasha Tudor - she lived a dream

2011-03-18T14:00:00.005-04:00

One of my favorite people of all times is Tasha Tudor...I have been looking at her website and am glad to know, even though she is gone, now, her family maintains her wonderful ideal on her site and in her store - http://www.tashatudorandfamily.com/

Check out places on the Internet and learn about her life...she's one of the few people who successfully went on later in life to live her dream. And what a wonderful simple life she lived...

Below is a recipe from her collection...enjoy

Peaches & Herb . Shake Your Groove Thing

2011-03-12T10:17:00.002-05:00

Here's my birthday song! I had a wonderful birthday, yesterday with my friends Anita, Susan, and Laura...we went to a great restaurant called "Gumbeaux" and hit some antique and junk shops! Fun, great day...enjoy my song and get up and "shake your groove thang!"

Airstream Song-Miranda Lambert (lyrics).flv

2011-03-08T06:10:00.000-05:00

Armadillo Eggs

2011-02-17T22:42:00.005-05:00

Armadillo eggs are not eggs, and they are definitely not from Armadillos. They are delicious appetizers, popular in the Southwest, and as far as I'm concerned, everywhere else! There are several different methods of making them, but this is my favorite!

INGREDIENTS:

12 Jalapeno peppers
1 lb. sausage
2 cups baking mix, such as Pioneer Baking Mix
1/2 cup of milk
1- 8 oz. pkg. shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese
1- 8 oz. pkg. cubed Cream cheese as in Philly brand
2 tsp. garlic salt
2 tsp. red pepper flakes (more or less to your taste)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease baking sheet. Wearing gloves, cut a slit in each pepper, removing the seeds and pulp. Into a large bowl, add baking mix, shredded Cheddar cheese, garlic salt, pepper flakes, sausage and the 1/2 cup of milk and mix well with your hands. Insert a cube of the Cream cheese into each pepper. Form the sausage mixture around each pepper and place on the baking sheet. Bake about 25 minutes in the preheated oven or until lightly browned. For a change of pace, you could use Monterey Jack cheese, cubed, if you like. This will be a hit at any gathering, I promise!

The Cowgirl's Code of the West

2011-02-08T20:22:00.005-05:00

Always tighten your cinch.

Keep your gear in order.

Always saddle your own horse!

Always take care of your horse before you take care of yourself.

Laugh at life's little stampedes.

Gallop for cover for the big ones.

Whatever you do, do it the best you can.

When a Cowgirl is about to leave the chutes for a wild ride on a bucking bronc,
lean over and whisper to her, "Don't weaken!"

If you think about it, there is some good advice for life in the above sayings...

RIDE ON COWGIRL!!!

Womenhood, Friends and Sisters

2011-02-02T14:42:00.003-05:00

This came in an email; I thought it was great to post here to remind us of who we are...

Time passes.

Life happens.

Distance separates.

Children grow up.

Jobs come and go.

Love waxes and wanes.

Men don't do what they're supposed to do.

Hearts break.

Parents die.

Colleagues forget favors.

Careers end.

BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how

many miles are

between you. A girl friend is never farther away

than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you

have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life

will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on,

praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on

your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the

valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk

beside you....Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,

daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers,

Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended

family: all bless our life!

The world wouldn't be the same without women, and

neither would I. When we began this adventure called

womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or

sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we

would need each other.

This is my baby sister, Deb-Y...I love her very much. I'm also blessed to have so many friends...I appreciate each and every one of them. Thank you all for stopping by...

Southern Corn Pudding

2011-01-23T10:09:00.004-05:00

Southern Corn Pudding

Ingredients:

5 eggs
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
6 ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed
6 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk

1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
1/3 cup grated yellow onion

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 2-quart souffle dish with the butter and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, pepper, salt, nutmeg and cayenne. One at a time, hold the corn in 1 hand and stand it on end so that it is perpendicular to the cutting board.

Hold a large chef's knife in the other hand and with a downward motion, cut the kernels from the cob. Turn the cob with every cut so that you get all of the kernels. Scrape the corn cobs with the back side of your chef's knife-this will release more of the milk from the cob. Add any accumulated juices to the cut kernels. Discard the cobs.

Add the corn kernels and onions to the egg mixture, stirring well to combine. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Bake until firm in the center and golden brown on top, about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let sit for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot. Enjoy...

This is several recipes combined...one from Emeril Legasse...I liked it better, a little more plain. This is a great comfort side dish anytime, any season...

Tequila Chicken Wings

2011-01-21T12:29:00.004-05:00

This is an easy dish to make while camping...just bring along your cast-iron skillet or two, if you want to double or triple the recipe...Tequila tenderizes these tasty chicken wings...Serve accompanied by corn tortillas, refried beans, salsa, and lots of chilled beer...or tequila, of course! If you don't wish to drink the Tequila, make non-alcoholic Margaritas or drink non-alcoholic beer...I certainly don't need to drink alcohol to be silly and have a good time...but to each his own, right?

Ingredients:

2 lb. chicken wings
11 garlic cloves, finely chopped
juice of 2 limes
juice of 1 orange
2 tbsp. Tequila (and a shot for you!)
1 tbsp. mild chili powder
2 dried chipotle chilis, reconstituted and pureed
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. ground allspice
pinch of ground cinnamon
pinch of ground cumin
pinch of dried oregano
bunch of cilantro

1. Cut chicken wings apart into two pieces at the joint.

2. Put the remaining ingredients in a non-metallic dish and mix until thoroughly combined. Add the chicken wings, toss well to coat, then place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least three hours, or overnight.

3. Cook the chicken wings over hot coals or in a ridged grill pan, turning occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until crisply browned. To test whether the chicken is cooked, pierce a thick part with a skewer - the juices will run clear. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over top of wings...Serve immediately! Serves 4

Tip: Made from the agave plant, tequila is Mexico's famous alcoholic drink.

Another tip: If you're riding ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it's still there!

Photoshoot

2011-01-11T16:40:00.007-05:00

Recently, my Sister on the fly friends ( local sisters) were featured in the Newnan-Coweta Magazine http://www.newnancowetamagazine.com/current. Check out the photos ...the photos, by the way, are not mine but appear courtesy of photographer Bob Fraley for Newnan-Coweta Magazine.

2011-01-06T17:32:00.003-05:00

Uncle Bubba's Cheese and Grits

Ingredients:

Grits:
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups quick grits

Gravy:
1/4 cup chopped bacon
1/2 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons each, diced red and green bell peppers
1/4 cup diced leek
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
36 medium shrimp, peeled, tails removed, and deviened
3/4 cup flour
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 quart heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:

In a medium saucepan on medium-high heat, bring 6 cups water, the butter, and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Continue whisking occasionally for about 5 minutes, until the grits are thick and tender. Remove from the heat and keep warm.

For the gravy, saute the bacon in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until the fat is rendered. Stir in the onion, peppers, leek, and garlic and cook until soft. Add the shrimp and stir to combine. Sprinkle in the flour, and stir, making sure all the flour is well incorporated. Add the wine and cream, stirring well until the sauce has thickened. In a small bottle or bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and garlic powder and season the gravy to taste.

Serve the shrimp gravy over grits.

Let me tell you...this is worth a trip to Tybee Island, Georgia! Uncle Bubba is Paula Deen's brother and this is his own recipe...he uses bacon; she uses ham. If you make it to the restaurant, make sure you get a piece of Key-Lime Pie...also the best I've had...I am going to be there in the first week of April (our Spring Break) for a Sister's on the fly trip...FUN ahead for sure! Check out the website: http://www.unclebubbas.com/index.php/recipes/view/shrimp_and_grits/

2010-12-25T10:22:00.002-05:00

Have the Merriest Christmas and the Happiest New Year, ever, friends! xoxox Paula

Tea Anyone?

2010-12-12T18:42:00.005-05:00

Had a lovely time Friday afternoon with my daughter, Robyn (who refused to be photographed with us-teehee), Anita, Laura and our Belles from Louisiana, Karen and Rhonda; we had High Tea at Rose Cottage Tearoom...as always, the strictest code of lady-like decorum was followed...teehee...

It's Official!

2010-12-03T09:36:00.002-05:00

Sadly, I am selling my little 1968 Shasta Compact camper, the "Queen Bee"... BUT, I am buying another one! It is also a '60's Shasta, just not a Compact. I decided I needed more room, in case I wanted to bring along my daughter, or a friend; my teeny little camper just wasn't big enough for that! I am excited and am thinking of another theme and name...any suggestions?

Ride 'em Cowgirl!!!

2010-12-01T19:13:00.000-05:00

Here's my friend Nan, riding her horsie at our campout...

Queen Bee

2010-11-30T14:23:00.006-05:00

Well, here she is in all her tacky glory...the Queen Bee! She's my little 1968 Shasta Compact camper...My Sister on the Fly friends, Anita, Susan and I dry-camped with our little vintage campers at McIntosh Reserve Park in Carroll County, Georgia. We had a great time and it was cold, cold, cold! My daughter Robyn and our three doggies slept in my little 12' home away from home...too much fun!

Above is my tiny little kitchen (pix turned out a little dark, I hope you can see it)...My favorite pink Melmac sugar and creamer and my vintage perky coffee pot is ready for my morning coffee! My trusty southern crinoline is at the front of my camper and holding up my little Adoption Doll "Bee"...as always, more is more to me!!!

I hope your Thanksgiving was a good one; I have so much to be thankful for. I don't want to end this post without asking you, my online friends, to pray for my little great nephew Colby who was fighting for his life on Thanksgiving Day in the hospital with a bone infection in his lower leg...he had emergency surgery the next day and is in great pain with a long road ahead...some of you have responded to my Facebook request for prayer for Colby and his family and I so appreciate it...check my Facebook page for updates on Colby.

As always, thanks so much for stopping by...more pix to come.

Crafting In The Country

2010-11-13T18:57:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful day crafting with friends outside in the country today at Laura's. The leaves were beautiful with the weather in the high 60's. Laura really has the gift of hospitality and has a beautiful setting of an outdoor kitchen and dining area. She also has a large covered area adjacent to that for us to craft. There were eight of us and we each brought a dish to share for lunch. Laura provided gift bags with the cutest aprons inside! Mine was a pink polka-dotted bib apron with with strawberries on it! I brought King Ranch Chicken (recipe below)...later in the afternoon we had a lovely tea. Each of us worked on something different...Heidi made small wreath ornaments with precious buttons of every shade of white to ecru from her mother and grandmother who have both passed on. Laura covered a lamp shade with peacock feathers from her sister Bridget's peacocks...beautiful! Bridget gave us a demonstration of making flower pins with different layers of material pieced together... you slightly burn the edges with a candle...it looks lovely and vintage. Anita showed us poncho's and the pattern she made from fleece. I knitted in short spurts! Nan was crocheting a beautiful afgan for a friend. All in all, it was a good day...Lord thank you for and bless my friends...

King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken (I used breasts which I like to buy on sale and cook up and freeze)
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (I used Rotel mild)
1 large package tortilla chips with lime
3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (6 ounce) can black olives
1 large tomato, chopped
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cooked chopped onion

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place chicken breasts in a pot of boiling water. Cook until meat shreds easily with a fork, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from water, and cool slightly. Remove meat and skin from bones, and shred.
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup sour cream,Rotel tomatoes, and onion and mix together.
Lightly coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. In dish begin layering: 1/3 of the chicken, 1/3 of the soup mixture, shredded cheese, then crumble tortilla chips on top. Repeat layers twice, ending with tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, until bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Top casserole with chopped tomato, olives, a couple of dollops of sour cream. Yum-yum good!

I Couldn't Sign On!!!

2010-11-12T18:20:00.004-05:00

I have had a terrible time logging on to Blogger in order to post on any blog! It just would not accept my password and I got into a FRUSTRATING loop... I fixed it, but have no idea how I did it! I just went into Blogger and signed up again and it said that this user name and account was already taken...somehow I got to the change password page! Anyway, hopefully I can keep posting again...Thank you all for hanging in with me!

Retirement has been GREAT! The weather here in Georgia has been just beautiful and I sit outside and drink my coffee every morning...sheer bliss! I have really enjoyed several camp-outs with my wonderful Sisters on the fly friends...the latest at Stone Mountain for the Country Living Fair...the leaves were just gorgeous and the Fair was so much fun. They usually do not have it in the South (last one in Ohio), but it will be here again next year, I believe...two of our Sister's vintage campers were on view at the Fair and will be featured in an upcoming feature of Country Living Magazine...I can't wait to see it!

I have had a good time re-naming and painting my little 1968 Shasta Compact camper...her name is now "Queen Bee", paying homage to the plight of the honey bee. Bees have always been one of my favorite things and my little camper shows that love off! Pictures to come...we have a photo-shoot of some of our campers at McIntosh Park by a local magazine...of course, another excuse to camp with my buds... this is my favorite time of the year!!!

The One That Didn't Get Away!

2010-10-19T15:39:00.000-04:00

Here's a picture of my Sister on the fly friend Swanee holding a big 'ol trout she caught in the creek behind her house! Wow! I bet that was some good eating!

Back from the Mountains

2010-09-21T09:23:00.003-04:00

This is my friend Anita on the bed she set up outside her camper, 'Ida Claire'...as you can see we had a great time with a Nature Hike by a famous Naturalist, Horseback Riding on the beautiful trails, a Bass Fishing contest, (GiGi won), a catered catfish fry, and too much fun to mention! As you can see, 'we have more fun than anyone'...

I'm off to the doctor for my last post-op visit and I am sure he will release me! Life is Good!

2010-09-13T14:56:00.000-04:00

This is my new little 16' Sport Airstream camper! We just love it! Hubby thinks it is his, too, heehee...I am taking her to the mountains this weekend on a Sisters on the fly campout...can't wait! I am almost healed from my diskectomy...thanks for all your kind words, cards, and prayer...

I Am Doing Great!

2010-08-20T16:21:00.003-04:00

It has been 23 days since my surgery and I am doing very well...thank you all so much for your kind thoughts and prayers! It was pretty hard at first, but I got the best care possible. My hospital stay was a piece of cake, thanks to good meds-heehee-then after I got home the fun began! It was pretty painful for a while, but my family took such great care of me...I just feel so much better, now...I want to thank the Lord for His answer to prayer...

The cards and calls from my Sister on the fly friends were so numerous, I couldn't believe it! What a wonderful group of Sisters I have...I am already getting ready for my next campout in mid-September in the mountains of Georgia...my friends Swanee and Anita are hosting that one! I sure hope it will be cool...it's been so hot here. I also have a new camper...a 2010 Airstream Sport; it's 16 ' and a little jewel. I named it Hissy Fit, although that is the name of my RV I traded in for it. Since I had a 'hissy fit' to join Sisters on the fly and get a camper, that name has to stay!

After that one, the next one is the Country Living Fair in October at Stone Mtn., GA. It is a really great fair with wonderful handmade crafts, etc. Country Living Magazine is featuring two of our Vintage Trailers that weekend. This will be a great campout and we will be enjoying the Laser Light Show, along with lots of other things to do in the immediate area...

Stay tuned for lots of photos to come!

It's All About Me!

2010-07-23T13:31:00.002-04:00

Well, so much has happened, I don't know where to start! I haven't been able to post much in such a long while because of the nerve pain in my right arm from 3 bad discs in my C-Spine...I retired from my job thinking that would help, but it's gotten worse (good days and not so good days)....so, I am having surgery next Weds., July 28, 2010...your prayers are appreciated!

I am still involved in and having fun with Sisters on the fly...you know "we have more fun than anyone!" Check out our site and the Southern Sisters site, too! We will be going on a campout in the mountains in GA in September...I am barely going to be out of my recovery time of 6-8 weeks from surgery, but my Sisters will help me set up my trailer...by-the-way I have almost finished decorating my little 1968 Shasta Compact...her new name is the "B-Hive"....you know how much I LOVE bees!!! I will post a picture later...

The latest news is that I have a new Airstream 16' Sport!!! We love it and her name is "Hissy Fit"! Will post more later...it's time to go to my pre-op appointment in Atlanta for the surgery!

Hugs,
Paula

Giddy-up 2010 (185 photos), by Paula Bush

2010-04-21T23:35:00.002-04:00

Giddy-Up 2010 in the awesome state of LOUISIANA! For those of you who are Sisters on the Fly members, I'd like to share my Snapfish photos of Giddy-Up 2010 with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Sisters on the Fly

2010-04-19T17:46:00.000-04:00

The Learning Tea

2010-03-02T21:02:00.003-05:00

Our friend, TK, Katrell Christie, has a wonderful website you all need to visit... http://www.thelearningtea.com/. TK is the owner of a delightful little shop in Atlanta, GA, called Doctor Bombay's Underwater Tea Party. She sells tea, of course, as well as her home-made soups, sandwiches and desserts. On a visit to India in 2009, she found herself wanting to help the children she met in an orphanage and elementary school in Darjeeling, world famous for it's tea gardens and exquisite teas. These children face a future of sexual exploitation, forced labor, and child trafficking without the chance for a higher education. Young girls are forced into prostitution in the area, or even transported to work in brothels in other regions of India when they leave the orphanages at age 16 or 17. With a university education, these girls have a chance to leave their dire circumstances behind. Young boys face a terrible life as well...visit her website to see the breathtaking photos of her journey...we all want to help "our own" at home, but this opens your eyes to the fact that our poorest have a better chance than these poor children. They are so grateful for any tiny thing and are so grateful for the chance to go to a school without even a toilet on the premises. As one who works in a school all day as a school nurse, I can tell you that we have much to be thankful for....

Nawlins!

2010-02-24T20:30:00.004-05:00

I was in New Orleans last week, shopping in the French Quarter, and who did I see, but Grandpa Elliott! I stepped out of a shop and couldn't believe my eyes...I crossed the street and talked to him for awhile. What a gentleman he is! I bought his new CD, "Sugar Sweet", and it is indeed sweet listening!!! It's well worth the money! You can see him on YouTube or go to his website... www.youtube.com/user/GrandpaElliott check it out...

My new blog

2010-02-11T22:25:00.004-05:00

For those of you who love Sisters On The Fly, vintage campers, and lots and lots of fun...check out the new blog - Southern Fried Sisters...we are a gentler, more refined group of ladies...yeah, right! I am the administrator of this blog and will be posting about upcoming camping trips, etc., and if you know me very well...some nonsense as well! With my quirky sense of humor-I just can't help myself! Check it out http://www.southernfriedsisters.blogspot.com

Busy As A Bee

2010-02-07T11:41:00.007-05:00

I have been too busy to post...I am painting handbags for Giddy-Up #3 in New Orleans in April and also getting ready to retire from my job as a School Nurse...I will hopefully have more time to spend on blogging, which I love! Does ANYBODY not know what day it is? Yes, you are correct! SUPERBOWL SUNDAY!!! I am rootin' for the
SAINTS in honor of my friends Karen and Marvene in Louisiana!!! GO SAINTS!

Here's a great SuperBowl recipe from my friend Sherree Nichol's in Texas.

Sheree’s Taco Soup

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef
1 cups diced onions
2 (15 1/2-ounce) cans pinto beans
1 (15 1/2-ounce) Ranch style beans
1 (15 1/4-ounce) can whole kernel corn
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes
1 (1 1/4-ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 (1-ounce) package ranch salad dressing mix
Tortilla chips, for serving
Sour cream, for garnish
Grated cheese, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish
Pickled jalapenos, for garnish
Avocados cut into chunks (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions:

Brown the ground beef and onions in a large skillet; drain the excess fat, then transfer the browned beef and onions to a large slow cooker or a stockpot. Add taco seasoning, and ranch dressing mix – combine well. Add the beans, corn, tomatoes, and cook in a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours or simmer over low heat for about 1 hour in a pot on the stove. To serve, place a few corn chips in each bowl and ladle soup over them. Top with sour cream, cheese, green onions and jalapenos. I love some avocado thrown in too!
You can change it to suit your taste. I’ve used black beans, hominy, &/or kidney beans, extra green chili’s. I love to make it with chicken too. I throw in a can of cream of chicken soup sometimes. I’ve also thrown in some cubed Velveeta….. it’s good any way you make it!

Backyard Birding

2010-01-31T13:47:00.003-05:00

I love feeding the birds in my front and back yards...I have a lot of windows, so I can see them from most rooms. My finch feeder/socks are full of Eastern Goldfinches...they eat tiny Niger seeds. I also put out cracked corn on the ground, as well as Black-oil sunflower seeds in feeders and some on the ground. A big hit for the Cardinals, Carolina Wrens,Titmice, and Blackcapped Chickadees is my bird cakes I make from scratch. I don't buy suet, it's too expensive and I like to use up what I have in the kitchen. Here's the recipe:

hamburger grease
cornmeal
a little flour
generic peanut butter, crunchy

I use 4 parts cornmeal to 1 part flour placed in a large bowl. I heat the peanut butter with the grease (the amounts don't matter-just use what you have) in the microwave to soften...watch it that it just BEGINS to soften! Then I stir it all together. I sometimes add some chopped raisins, any other chopped nuts; whatever I might have left over. Mold these in little cakes, according to the size you want=bigger in the winter, smaller in the summer, due to becoming rancid fast. Then, freeze them on a platter- when they are hard, put them in a Ziplock bag and keep them in the freezer, taking out what you need. Sounds simple, but my birds eat them up as fast as I can make them...