As a kid growing up, I never could understand why we always had to have black eyed peas on New Year's Day. Mom always cooked them on New Years Eve to serve on New Year's Day. Of course, she told us we had to eat the black eyed peas or we would have bad luck for an entire year. The "bad luck" ruse lasted until I was about 10 and then outgrew the notion that a pea would bring me luck. I still had to eat the black eyed pea recipe that mom would fix, but it no longer held the promise of a lucky year.
Looking back, I think mom liked the family bonding time. From my teenage years on our family was too scattered to eat together regularly. Holidays always brought us back together though. I think that's why mom insisted we get together for black eyed peas (along with greens and cornbread) on New Year's Day.
The black eyed pea recipe that she would follow is one used by most Southern moms.
Start soaking the bag of dried black eyed peas two days before New Years. On New Year's Eve you toss a ham bone into the largest pot you can find. Add in the soaked black eyed peas and enough water to cover everything well. Stir in a chopped onion. Cook on high until the water boils. Then turn it down to a simmer. Stir often to keep it from sticking. When the beans are soft enough to eat tun off the heat. Let everything sit until it's cool. Then put it in the refrigerator overnight.
On New Year's Day take the pot out of the refrigerator, put it on the stove on medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to keep from sticking. While the black eye pea recipe is heating, cook your cornbread and greens. By the time these are finished the peas will be piping hot.
You don't have to cook the peas on New Years Day. Mom did that because she swore they tasted better. I think she's right. The black eyed peas of my childhood taste a lot better than the canned ones I feed my family. This year though, I think I'm going to try her recipe.
Have a happy new year!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
New Year Greeting Messages 2009 Handmade Cards
New Year greeting messages may be the best way to say hello to friends and family. Most people are coming off of the rush of Christmas by New Year's Day. For some people, the post-holiday blues are already beginning to set in. Receiving a New Year greeting might be the perfect thing to make someone's day.A few weeks ago I wrote an article on making handmade cards for New Years day. There is a slideshow that shows everything you need to make the handmade cards.(Click on the Associated Content link above or use the widget on the right.) I got my daughters involved in making the homemade cards and we had a blast!
The New Year greeting cards didn't cost much to make. But, I always look forward to spending time with the kids. For these handmade cards we used the card stock,envelopes and supplies that we already had. Other supplies can be picked up at crafts stores as can sets of blank envelopes.
Try it. Your family might like to send and create New Year greeting messages and making handmade cards too.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler a Fun Comedy Movie
Bedtime Stories
- Rating PG
- Director: Adam Shankman (Hairspray 2007)
- Release: December 25, 2008
- Genre: Comedy
- Studio: Walt Disney
- Rating: PG
- Gayle’s Rating: B
Bedtime Stories
Bedtime Stories is a movie the family can see without the parents feeling nervous. Where Marley & Me failed to deliver as a comedy Bedtime Stories packs a punch. There are some innuendos and a little bit of foul language. Otherwise, this film sticks closely with the PG rating.
It was nice to see the actors do so well in their roles and with each other. Adam Sandler definitely outdid himself on this one! Courteney Cox was believable as a school principal. Both Laura Ann Kesling and Jonathan Morgan Heit were adorable.
Bedtime Stories was fun to watch. At a few points in the movie even the kids in the audience cheered individually. The audience laughed at several appropriate times during the film. As people exited the theater the mood was upbeat and light (as you would expect from a comedy). Kids especially will like it.
A couple of times the Bedtime Stories plot drags. Adults will find some of the lines to be predictable. The humor is silly but works for kids. Parts of the movie (such as Sandler getting kicked) don’t seem to fit. But, it is a film about kids using their imagination for a bedtime story. Anyone who has ever told a story to a kid will know that what kids say doesn’t always fit the story. For the most part the plot flowed with logical order even though it was written to be over the top.
This is not a film you have to think about or analyze. It’s a pretty good comedy and a fun 100 minutes. It is not thought provoking or deep.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
2009 New Year Resolution is a Quest for Family and Self
Next week we ring in 2009. This was a fast year. I feel the sand dropping in the hourglass and feel the pull of time. Maybe that is fueling my New Year resolution. This year, I have decided to discover the stories of my families. Both of my parents are deceased. Discovering my family will be a quest, a possibly lifelong journey.
My mother sprung from deep southern roots in small town Georgia. My father came from the hearty of stock of Italian immigrants. They fell in love while working on the Saturn IV at Red Stone Arsenal. I am the product of both cultures, vastly different and at times strikingly similar. I am the double namesake of my Italian grandmother and the great-aunt of my mother - a favored lady who lived at the spring of what is now Red Clay National Park.
The sands of time threaten to claim the stories of both sides of my family. This new year, my change that. In the end I hope to have a chronology of stories that will pay tribute to the deceased and honor the future. Where the quest will take me I do not know. I know only that I must go.
My mother sprung from deep southern roots in small town Georgia. My father came from the hearty of stock of Italian immigrants. They fell in love while working on the Saturn IV at Red Stone Arsenal. I am the product of both cultures, vastly different and at times strikingly similar. I am the double namesake of my Italian grandmother and the great-aunt of my mother - a favored lady who lived at the spring of what is now Red Clay National Park.
The sands of time threaten to claim the stories of both sides of my family. This new year, my change that. In the end I hope to have a chronology of stories that will pay tribute to the deceased and honor the future. Where the quest will take me I do not know. I know only that I must go.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Marley and Me Movie Review Nice Dog. Bad Movie!
My family and I went to see the movie Marley & Me on Christmas day. Like many others we wanted a fun family movie. This one was advertised as a comedy film for families. The poster featured an adorable big eyed puppy. That was too tempting for this pet-loving family to pass up. Soon, we were on our way to see Marley & Me at Carmike Movie Theater at East Town mall.
Warning, this movie review will give away plot details.
My rating on this film is a C- because it was such a disappointment. It clearly is not the comedy it was advertised to be. Neither was it a family film. The film carries a PG rating. In my opinion the film would have been better off with a PG-13 rating and advertised as a drama instead of a comedy.
Marley and Me is a movie based on the book by John Grogan.
The film is about John and Jennifer Grogran. When Jennifer (Jennifer Aniston) starts to get the yearning for motherhood John (Owen Wilson) is urged by his friend Sebastian (Eric Dane) to get a dog. John surprises Jennifer with a trip to the breeder to select a puppy. A few weeks later, the puppy is old enough to come to his new home. Jennifer has to work out of town. The guys somehow muddle through a few days alone. When its time to pick Jennifer up from the airport, a very inexperienced John Grogran sticks Marley in a cardboard box and leaves the dog unattended in the garage. There is no food or water. The couple is shocked when they return to find the garage in pieces.
From there, the film snowballs downhill. There was very little comedy. Instead, the film is laced with sexual innuendos. By the end of Marley and Me, Jennifer has delivered three children. Although there is no actual nudity, the film does manage to let you know how each of the pregnancies happened.
Then, the worst thing the could happen in the film does. Marley becomes old and feeble and has to be put down. The scene with the vet is the longest part of the film. We watch as the vet pushes the plunger on the IV cocktail that carries Marley to doggy heaven. Then, we watch as each of the children say their goodbyes when Marley is buried in the front yard. The gut wrenching funeral scene left most of the audience in tears and needing pet therapy.
The worst thing is that Marley & Me is not necessarily a bad film. Marley's antics are not truly the focus of the movie. If it had been more accurately marketed it would have left the audience feeling less cheated.It is about a maturity, growth and dealing with adult midlife crisis. There is talk in the movie that an exhausted Jenifer, struggling to stay home with two kids and an untrained dog, might be suffering from post-partum depression. Instead of trying to dig in and help her John wonders if he should leave.
There is a lot that this film could be. But a comedy flick? Not Marley & Me.
Warning, this movie review will give away plot details.
My rating on this film is a C- because it was such a disappointment. It clearly is not the comedy it was advertised to be. Neither was it a family film. The film carries a PG rating. In my opinion the film would have been better off with a PG-13 rating and advertised as a drama instead of a comedy.
Marley and Me is a movie based on the book by John Grogan.
The film is about John and Jennifer Grogran. When Jennifer (Jennifer Aniston) starts to get the yearning for motherhood John (Owen Wilson) is urged by his friend Sebastian (Eric Dane) to get a dog. John surprises Jennifer with a trip to the breeder to select a puppy. A few weeks later, the puppy is old enough to come to his new home. Jennifer has to work out of town. The guys somehow muddle through a few days alone. When its time to pick Jennifer up from the airport, a very inexperienced John Grogran sticks Marley in a cardboard box and leaves the dog unattended in the garage. There is no food or water. The couple is shocked when they return to find the garage in pieces.
From there, the film snowballs downhill. There was very little comedy. Instead, the film is laced with sexual innuendos. By the end of Marley and Me, Jennifer has delivered three children. Although there is no actual nudity, the film does manage to let you know how each of the pregnancies happened.
Then, the worst thing the could happen in the film does. Marley becomes old and feeble and has to be put down. The scene with the vet is the longest part of the film. We watch as the vet pushes the plunger on the IV cocktail that carries Marley to doggy heaven. Then, we watch as each of the children say their goodbyes when Marley is buried in the front yard. The gut wrenching funeral scene left most of the audience in tears and needing pet therapy.
The worst thing is that Marley & Me is not necessarily a bad film. Marley's antics are not truly the focus of the movie. If it had been more accurately marketed it would have left the audience feeling less cheated.It is about a maturity, growth and dealing with adult midlife crisis. There is talk in the movie that an exhausted Jenifer, struggling to stay home with two kids and an untrained dog, might be suffering from post-partum depression. Instead of trying to dig in and help her John wonders if he should leave.
There is a lot that this film could be. But a comedy flick? Not Marley & Me.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas Eve! Don't forget to attend church tonight.
Don't forget to attend the worship of your choice this Christmas Eve. Please see my earlier post or Associated Content for a list of service times. Christmas can be a great time to attend a worship service. Even if you don't regularly attend church a Christmas eve service can be moving.
A few years ago, my husband and I attended a "midnight" service in a downtown Knoxville church. It was his first experience with a late service and only my second. We both remember the service as one of the most meaningful of our lives. Over a decade later, we still talk about that Christmas eve service.
May God bless you with a similar experience.
A few years ago, my husband and I attended a "midnight" service in a downtown Knoxville church. It was his first experience with a late service and only my second. We both remember the service as one of the most meaningful of our lives. Over a decade later, we still talk about that Christmas eve service.
May God bless you with a similar experience.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Worst College Gifts for Students - The Death of a Cactus
About two weeks ago I was talking with my daughters. They are both in college. I had just written an article for Associated Content called: The Top Worst Christmas Gifts for College Students (access it through the link at the top of the page). They were telling me what they thought of the list. Pretty much, the list is right on target (at least according to them).
But, my youngest daughter objected to one item. In the article I said to steer away from anything that has to be fed or watered. She was adamant that this is wrong. "College students love plants!" she said. According to her giving a college student a plant is NOT a bad idea. It's a great idea. She says they brighten up the room and make it a home. She, herself had a cactus and for my information it made the room more like a home and less like a dorm. Eighteen years of indignation went into that statement.
I told her my line of thinking is that the plant could be knocked over. I told her the water in the plant could cause a problem for any electronics that were in the way and that the dirt could make quite the mess. This is, of course, assuming that the plant did not die a slow death from thirst. I used every argument in the book but she would not be budged from her position.
Then a couple of days ago it hit me. When we brought her home from college for the holiday break she didn't bring her plant. When I asked her about it she mumbled something under her breath. Then, she quickly went into the other room. I asked again and got the same reaction. When pressed I got an answer.
"It was a nice plant. " She started saying. "It made my room nicer." But, tragically, the plant met its demise. In getting ready for finals it was hit and buried by a tumbling avalanche of textbooks and other items. She said she tried hard to save it with TLC, water and kind words. The experience proved to be too much for the cactus to recover from.
And so, now, there is no plant. Not anymore. Not for her. She just couldn't bring herself to tell me about the death of her cactus. It was terrible. The pain was just too great. It's awful to be a college student and find out that mom was right. But to admit it is even worse.
View The Top Worst Gifts for College Students by clicking the Associated Content link to the right or the link in the header at the top of the page.
But, my youngest daughter objected to one item. In the article I said to steer away from anything that has to be fed or watered. She was adamant that this is wrong. "College students love plants!" she said. According to her giving a college student a plant is NOT a bad idea. It's a great idea. She says they brighten up the room and make it a home. She, herself had a cactus and for my information it made the room more like a home and less like a dorm. Eighteen years of indignation went into that statement.
I told her my line of thinking is that the plant could be knocked over. I told her the water in the plant could cause a problem for any electronics that were in the way and that the dirt could make quite the mess. This is, of course, assuming that the plant did not die a slow death from thirst. I used every argument in the book but she would not be budged from her position.
Then a couple of days ago it hit me. When we brought her home from college for the holiday break she didn't bring her plant. When I asked her about it she mumbled something under her breath. Then, she quickly went into the other room. I asked again and got the same reaction. When pressed I got an answer.
"It was a nice plant. " She started saying. "It made my room nicer." But, tragically, the plant met its demise. In getting ready for finals it was hit and buried by a tumbling avalanche of textbooks and other items. She said she tried hard to save it with TLC, water and kind words. The experience proved to be too much for the cactus to recover from.
And so, now, there is no plant. Not anymore. Not for her. She just couldn't bring herself to tell me about the death of her cactus. It was terrible. The pain was just too great. It's awful to be a college student and find out that mom was right. But to admit it is even worse.
View The Top Worst Gifts for College Students by clicking the Associated Content link to the right or the link in the header at the top of the page.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Winter Solstice Shortest Day of the Year Means Longest Night in 2008
Today is the Winter Solstice and is also known as the longest night and shortest day of the year. Always occurring on or about December 21 the solstice marks the beginning of winter. From this point until summer solstice the days will get longer - if colder.
The term "yule log" came from the celebration of winter solstice. Celtics would cut use a hardwood log (often oak) and burn it through the twelve hours of darkness. The belief was that if the fire was able to burn all night without going out the family would have good luck the following year. A portion of the log was saved to light the fire with the next year. The lighting of the new oak log with a portion of the old one symbolized the ending of the troubles of the previous year.
With the economic woes our country is facing, wouldn't it be nice if some of our troubles were no more? While I do not believe that winter solstice can do that it is a nice thought. That glimmer of hope that things will get better is going to get me through the longest night of the year. How about you?
This winter photo was taken somewhere between Jelico, Tennessee and Berea, Kentucky in December 2008.
The term "yule log" came from the celebration of winter solstice. Celtics would cut use a hardwood log (often oak) and burn it through the twelve hours of darkness. The belief was that if the fire was able to burn all night without going out the family would have good luck the following year. A portion of the log was saved to light the fire with the next year. The lighting of the new oak log with a portion of the old one symbolized the ending of the troubles of the previous year.
With the economic woes our country is facing, wouldn't it be nice if some of our troubles were no more? While I do not believe that winter solstice can do that it is a nice thought. That glimmer of hope that things will get better is going to get me through the longest night of the year. How about you?
This winter photo was taken somewhere between Jelico, Tennessee and Berea, Kentucky in December 2008.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Why My Christmas is Better in 2008 Despite 3 Jobs
I was taking a moment to reflect on how less chaotic this Christmas is for me. The tree is casting twinkling lights in the living room. A small assortment of presents sit underneath. Presents for the church members of my husband are mostly wrapped. The house is warm and inviting. I can't believe I have time to type!
Last year, was one of the most chaotic Christmas seasons that I can remember. Trying to get us out of a financial bind found me working three different jobs. My charity job does not pay. So to compensate, I went to work as a pizza delivery driver. My ever present health was an issue but my terrific boss was very understanding. Plus, I mystery shopped for two companies.
This year, I am again working three jobs. (Blog readers know we picked up some additional hospital bills a few weeks ago.). Two opportunities to make a little bit of money on the internet have come my way. They can both be done from home in between coughing fits.
All this should mean a chaotic Christmas. It's not. As I have time to sit and reflect I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the blessing shown to me this season. It's not that we have won the lottery or anything like that. But this Christmas the focus is on our family. It is not on just surviving but on togetherness - a profound change over last year.
Christmas 2007 will go down as one of the more hectic in my life. With my three temporary jobs we were beginning to make progress paying off the bills. Then, my husband got a phone call in the second week of December.. He had been selected to go on a job-related missions trip - in February. John was thrilled to have been invited! But there was a lot to do.
My husband is a pastor. Advent is a special, but busy, season. To attend to the spiritual needs of his flock during the Christmas season he was doing a special Sunday morning prayer service at 8:30 am. He spent a lot of time in preparation for this special prayer service. Plus he had to plan regular services, special Christmas Eve services an outing and was involved in the cantata and other Christmas church activities.
On top of his duties all we would need to do for the trip was:
Get several hundred dollars together, (Ouch! I was already working 3 jobs!)
Fill out some forms, (Its the government. Is anything easy?)
Scramble to get his passport, (We had to go to DC.)
Arrange for his VISA, (We had to go to DC.)
Arrange for coverage for the church services he would miss, (Guess who?)
Get through Christmas, (Presents and services.)
Convince his church to support him, (Only a few did.)
Ask his church for financial assistance, (They declined but did allow him to designate his tithe to pay for his trip.)
Do all the things you do for International travel. (Whatever that is. He'd never done it before.)
And then he was ready go to. (Except he needed clothes etc.)
Oh, and there was this thing about spending two job-related weekends in Gatlinburg in January and a major fundraiser for my charity work during the first weekend of February. Plus, my daughter who was away at college was dealing with a stalker. We were just glad to have her home - and safe.
Not only was the church not supportive (as a whole) of my husband's trip but several complained that the Christmas tree was not put up during Christmas! Only one family ever asked if they could help of if we needed anything that holiday. To this day, I am grateful for that family and probably always will be.
So as I sip on my hot cocoa and type, I realize just how much richer this Christmas is than last year. Not financially more extravagant, never that but richer in the more meaningful ways.
The stalker who was fixated on my daughter has now been removed permanently from campus. My husband, (who's life was forever changed on that missions trip) is having a blast as his new appointment this year. There are beautiful friends both locally and around the globe who touch my life as I touch theirs.
Christmas is a time for celebrating the birth of Christ. It is not just about putting up a Christmas tree or decorating a building. It is about a nativity and telling others about the joy contained therein. There is just a lot to be thankful for and I am.
May you and your family have a Merry Christmas this year and always!
Gayle
Last year, was one of the most chaotic Christmas seasons that I can remember. Trying to get us out of a financial bind found me working three different jobs. My charity job does not pay. So to compensate, I went to work as a pizza delivery driver. My ever present health was an issue but my terrific boss was very understanding. Plus, I mystery shopped for two companies.
This year, I am again working three jobs. (Blog readers know we picked up some additional hospital bills a few weeks ago.). Two opportunities to make a little bit of money on the internet have come my way. They can both be done from home in between coughing fits.
All this should mean a chaotic Christmas. It's not. As I have time to sit and reflect I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the blessing shown to me this season. It's not that we have won the lottery or anything like that. But this Christmas the focus is on our family. It is not on just surviving but on togetherness - a profound change over last year.
Christmas 2007 will go down as one of the more hectic in my life. With my three temporary jobs we were beginning to make progress paying off the bills. Then, my husband got a phone call in the second week of December.. He had been selected to go on a job-related missions trip - in February. John was thrilled to have been invited! But there was a lot to do.
My husband is a pastor. Advent is a special, but busy, season. To attend to the spiritual needs of his flock during the Christmas season he was doing a special Sunday morning prayer service at 8:30 am. He spent a lot of time in preparation for this special prayer service. Plus he had to plan regular services, special Christmas Eve services an outing and was involved in the cantata and other Christmas church activities.
On top of his duties all we would need to do for the trip was:
Get several hundred dollars together, (Ouch! I was already working 3 jobs!)
Fill out some forms, (Its the government. Is anything easy?)
Scramble to get his passport, (We had to go to DC.)
Arrange for his VISA, (We had to go to DC.)
Arrange for coverage for the church services he would miss, (Guess who?)
Get through Christmas, (Presents and services.)
Convince his church to support him, (Only a few did.)
Ask his church for financial assistance, (They declined but did allow him to designate his tithe to pay for his trip.)
Do all the things you do for International travel. (Whatever that is. He'd never done it before.)
And then he was ready go to. (Except he needed clothes etc.)
Oh, and there was this thing about spending two job-related weekends in Gatlinburg in January and a major fundraiser for my charity work during the first weekend of February. Plus, my daughter who was away at college was dealing with a stalker. We were just glad to have her home - and safe.
Not only was the church not supportive (as a whole) of my husband's trip but several complained that the Christmas tree was not put up during Christmas! Only one family ever asked if they could help of if we needed anything that holiday. To this day, I am grateful for that family and probably always will be.
So as I sip on my hot cocoa and type, I realize just how much richer this Christmas is than last year. Not financially more extravagant, never that but richer in the more meaningful ways.
The stalker who was fixated on my daughter has now been removed permanently from campus. My husband, (who's life was forever changed on that missions trip) is having a blast as his new appointment this year. There are beautiful friends both locally and around the globe who touch my life as I touch theirs.
Christmas is a time for celebrating the birth of Christ. It is not just about putting up a Christmas tree or decorating a building. It is about a nativity and telling others about the joy contained therein. There is just a lot to be thankful for and I am.
May you and your family have a Merry Christmas this year and always!
Gayle
Thursday, December 18, 2008
How to Tips for Raising Good Kids in Bad Times
This is one of the most popular pieces that I have ever written for Associated Content. Everyone wants to learn how to raise good kids. Both of my daughters have battled lifelong chronic health issues. My oldest has epilepsy and was told by her doctor here that he couldn't recommend going away to school. She went on to earn a full four year scholarship to Berea College in Kentucky. Now she's a junior, is on the band staff, volunteers on and off campus and is doing well.
The health issues of my younger daughter to be homeschooled during her middle school years. She became well enough to attend public hospital. There were rocky moments and times when her teachers didn't understand her conditions. Despite the obstacles the managed to graduate at #11 in her high school class in May 2008. She also volunteers both on and off campus and holds down a part-time job.
So how do you raise good kids in a troubled world?
You teach them to think. As a parent, you do everything you can to make them feel valued.
You read my article on How to Raise Good Kids in a Troubled World by clicking the Associated Content link on the right.
The health issues of my younger daughter to be homeschooled during her middle school years. She became well enough to attend public hospital. There were rocky moments and times when her teachers didn't understand her conditions. Despite the obstacles the managed to graduate at #11 in her high school class in May 2008. She also volunteers both on and off campus and holds down a part-time job.
So how do you raise good kids in a troubled world?
You teach them to think. As a parent, you do everything you can to make them feel valued.
You read my article on How to Raise Good Kids in a Troubled World by clicking the Associated Content link on the right.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Remember Your Pastor at Christmas
Pastors give so much throughout the year. Did you know that most people actually don't give their pastor a Christmas gift? For many people, it never crosses their mind. I found a great list on the internet for gift ideas for pastors. Some cost no money and others are good for Sunday Schools classes to chip in on. The list is found here.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Buddy's Bar-b-q Powell, Knoxville, TN Restaurant Review
When Hubby and I visited Buddy's Bar-B-Q in Powell we were surprised to found out about their Tuesday specials. For only $5 each we had an entree and two side items. That's a pretty hard deal to beat. But, were we pleased with the service? Oh yes.
The full review is available on Associated Content. Click the links on the right to view it.
And don't forget, bookmark this site often to read more restaurant reviews and book reviews. If there is something you would like to see here just leave a message in the comments section.
The full review is available on Associated Content. Click the links on the right to view it.
And don't forget, bookmark this site often to read more restaurant reviews and book reviews. If there is something you would like to see here just leave a message in the comments section.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Best Restaurants in Knoxville
Dining out in Knoxville? Need a restaurant for a special occasion? Here is a popular list of the best restaurants in Knoxville. These are definitely for those meaning occasions. You may enjoy checking out the list. It's found here. Knoxville Restaurants.
Knoxville is really fortunate to have so many great dining locations!
Knoxville is really fortunate to have so many great dining locations!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Free Easy Spinach Dip Appetizer Recipe
It's the holiday season. In my life, this means a constantly taking a covered dish to one thing or another. I'm always looking for something that's fast and easy to put together. My spinach dip is always a hit! A friend tried it at our last holiday event and asked for the recipe. I thought I'd share it here too.
This terrific dish is perfect for the holidays! It's fast, easy and tastes scrumptious. Figure watchers can reduce calories by using fat free products. Here's the link to the free recipe. My family loves it. I hope yours does too. Let me know.
This terrific dish is perfect for the holidays! It's fast, easy and tastes scrumptious. Figure watchers can reduce calories by using fat free products. Here's the link to the free recipe. My family loves it. I hope yours does too. Let me know.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Christmas Tree Decor for Pennies A+ Decorations
Need help decorating your Christmas tree this year? You can decorate your Christmas tree for pennies by following my advice. Read the full article on Associated Content for the full scoop.
Highlights include:
How to use satin balls in new ways.
Decorating with old cookie cutters.
Make cookies.
Decorate with candy canes.
Highlights include:
How to use satin balls in new ways.
Decorating with old cookie cutters.
Make cookies.
Decorate with candy canes.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Our family tradition. Christmas Cookie Bake-a-Thon YUM!
Our annual Christmas cookie bake-a-thon has been a family tradition at our home for years. This is when we get together with friends and bake as many cookies as possible. These are then given as gifts to friends and relatives. It's beyond fun. Most of the cookies are adaptations of a single recipe. We always have a blast. I can't even think of having a Christmas without it. As soon as we can I'll post photos. Keep watching for them here!
To get the free recipe and learn how we do our bake-a-thon click the Associated Content link above.
To get the free recipe and learn how we do our bake-a-thon click the Associated Content link above.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Sonic Jefferson City, TN You've Been Reviewed
Happy Hour at Sonic? Yes, and I love it! This is one of my favorite fast-food restaurants. Besides Frito Pies and Diet Cherry Limeade they offer burgers, hot dogs, popcorn chicken and more.
Stopping in brings back good memories. When my daughters were small we would sometimes head to the Sonic right after school. I'd get them each a small slush and we'd chat about what they did at school. They were in Kindergarden and Second Grade at the time. It's surprising how much kids that age can find to talk about. It was good bonding time. To this day they both love going to Sonic. It's just a nostalgic kind of place with friendly servers on roller blades and peppy oldies music.
I could solve all of their problems with a kiss and a Sonic slushee. They girls are both in college now. Their problems aren't so easy to solve. At least I can still go to Sonic, close my eyes and pretend there's giggly laughter coming from the back seat. Ahh... when times were simple.
A few weeks ago I did a review on the Sonic in Jefferson City. If it's not on the list to the right you can click the Associated Content link up above and scroll through the list for it. While you're reading you might find something else that catches your eye. If you do let me know. You can always leave a comment on this post or on the articles on Associated Content.
Enjoy the review. If you want to learn more about Sonic, here's their link too: Check it out here!
Stopping in brings back good memories. When my daughters were small we would sometimes head to the Sonic right after school. I'd get them each a small slush and we'd chat about what they did at school. They were in Kindergarden and Second Grade at the time. It's surprising how much kids that age can find to talk about. It was good bonding time. To this day they both love going to Sonic. It's just a nostalgic kind of place with friendly servers on roller blades and peppy oldies music.
I could solve all of their problems with a kiss and a Sonic slushee. They girls are both in college now. Their problems aren't so easy to solve. At least I can still go to Sonic, close my eyes and pretend there's giggly laughter coming from the back seat. Ahh... when times were simple.
A few weeks ago I did a review on the Sonic in Jefferson City. If it's not on the list to the right you can click the Associated Content link up above and scroll through the list for it. While you're reading you might find something else that catches your eye. If you do let me know. You can always leave a comment on this post or on the articles on Associated Content.
Enjoy the review. If you want to learn more about Sonic, here's their link too: Check it out here!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Christmas Eve Services in Strawberry Plains
Strawberry Plains has many opportunities for Christmas Eve Services on December 24, 2008. This list will be updated as information becomes available. If your church isn't listed here post a comment to let me know.
First Baptist Church of Strawberry Plains
3100 Old Strawberry Plains
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Service Times TBA
Strawberry Plains Presbyterian Church
3168 Old Andrew Johnson Hwy.
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion Service
7:00 pm.
Strawberry Plains United Methodist Church
3173 Old Andrew Johnson Hwy.
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Christmas Eve service times:
6:00 pm and 10:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Strawberry Plains
3100 Old Strawberry Plains
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Service Times TBA
Strawberry Plains Presbyterian Church
3168 Old Andrew Johnson Hwy.
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion Service
7:00 pm.
Strawberry Plains United Methodist Church
3173 Old Andrew Johnson Hwy.
Strawberry Plains, TN 37871
Christmas Eve service times:
6:00 pm and 10:00 pm
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Need Christmas funds? Work from home. Make money on the Internet legitimately.
Who doesn't need extra money during the holidays? If you need a few extra dollars why not do what I'm doing? Associated Content still needs content producers. Articles pay around $3-$5 for the most part. It's not a way to get rich fast but it is a chance to be associated with a solid company.
Basically, 3, $3 articles a day will generate $300 by the end of the month. It takes about a week for your first articles to be approved and for you to get started. They pay promptly by Pay Pal.
If you are interested email me or click this link.
Basically, 3, $3 articles a day will generate $300 by the end of the month. It takes about a week for your first articles to be approved and for you to get started. They pay promptly by Pay Pal.
If you are interested email me or click this link.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Knoxville Christmas Productions for Kids
Knoxville has tons of great Christmas productions for kids. Churches offer the traditional Christmas Nativity Pageants. The Knoxville Community band provides a free annual concert. Church Street United Methodist Church offers "A Walk through Bethlehem" annually. Plus there are all kids of other activities. Continually, I am impressed at how much our fair city has to offer! There is something for every taste and budget. Check on the link on the right for Knoxville Christmas Productions for Kids for the full article I wrote for Associated Content.Some of the article highlights include:
First Presbyterian Church
Market Square Activities
22nd Annual Clayton Holiday Concert
A Christmas Carol at the Clarence Brown
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Tomlin The Dog as a Christmas Reindeer
I'm so excited about Christmas this year. Even our dog Tomllin is getting into the act. We think he makes a great Christmas reindeer. How about you?Money is tight this year. Our focus is going to be on spending time together as a family and doing inexpensive Christmas activities. This is the first year both of my daughters have been away for the bulk of the season. They are both off at college and doing great! I am looking forward to spending quality time with them this Christmas.
Have you found any ways to make the holidays more special? If so, email me at youvebeenreviewed @ gmail. com (leave the spaces out). I'll be posting a list of suggestions in a few days from the responses that come in.
Enjoy your Christmas season!
How to Find Help from Nonprofit Charity Agencies at Christmas
Where do you find help from nonprofit charity agencies at Christmas? Because more people are needing help I'm getting asked this question almost every day. There is not a "one stop" agency. Everyone seems to handle a different piece of the pie. The maze can be confusing.
Below is a great article I wrote for Associated Content. Even if you don't need help I would encourage you to read the article. The experience of what people to through to get help is eye-opening. Most people are under the impression that it is easy to get help. This article shows that is clearly not the case. The system is full of road blocks, challenges and justifications. It leads to confusion, sleepless nights and many tears of frustration.
Realistically, by now, most of the deadlines for Christmas help have passed. People in need may not be able to get and for some children there will be no Santa Clause.
Please understand, no one plans to need help. Asking is a tough job for the average person. The many hoops you must go through to get help can be frustrating roadblocks. Read the article linked above and you will see what I mean. There are comments below the article. Feel free to leave one and read the others.
Below is a great article I wrote for Associated Content. Even if you don't need help I would encourage you to read the article. The experience of what people to through to get help is eye-opening. Most people are under the impression that it is easy to get help. This article shows that is clearly not the case. The system is full of road blocks, challenges and justifications. It leads to confusion, sleepless nights and many tears of frustration.
Realistically, by now, most of the deadlines for Christmas help have passed. People in need may not be able to get and for some children there will be no Santa Clause.
Please understand, no one plans to need help. Asking is a tough job for the average person. The many hoops you must go through to get help can be frustrating roadblocks. Read the article linked above and you will see what I mean. There are comments below the article. Feel free to leave one and read the others.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Living My Dreams. Thanking God. Loving Life. Deeply grateful.
I'm in a spot I never thought I'd be in. I feel as though I am living my dreams. Right now. Right this minute. It's a very humbling feeling and I am so grateful. But I find myself asking "Why me?" Only God could have done this. Only He could have taken my beginnings, reformed them and allowed me to live my dreams.
When I was in sixth grade my dream was to write a book -.
-Now, they are both available on Amazon.Com.
As a kid, my hope was to escape poverty by writing. -
-Now, I write two blogs and do freelancing.
My hopes as a teen were to have a car, warm house and family who loved me. -
-My husband does. I think my daughters do too. If all else fails, there's always the dog.
Growing up there was no health insurance and I was sick a lot.
- Now, I'm still sick but we have insurance and a physician who seems to care.
I used to dream of a car that would run.
-Now I have one. Well, Hubby, the bank, and I do...
I could go on... The kid my mother said would never amount to anything has been recognized by two US Presidents, speaks in churches, signs books, encourages clients, survived being raped, somehow managed to raise two daughters with chronic health issues and tries to keep up with friends even though she knows she misses the mark - and wants to apologize for it.
My life isn't perfect. My family struggles to pay bills. I worry about the nonprofit I run, our clients, my friends and the people I meet. Everyone has problems. But, some way, somehow, God always sees fit to bring us through. To me, that's very reassuring and very humbling.
The home of my childhood was not God friendly. But inside I always knew that there was something better "out there". I just wasn't sure I'd be able to find it.
Actually, I haven't found it yet. Not yet anyway. Somehow, God has found a way to find me.The nobody. The one who was told that she would drop out of high school, was "too stupid" for words, who was told would rot in a gutter somewhere and would never, ever, amount to anything - God reached to this kid, in the trenches, the valleys and on mountaintops. He picked me up. Dusted me off and loved me. I have no idea why. I have no idea what's in store.
But, I know that I am living the dreams that I had as a little girl. All of them. Plus more and I wonder how that can be? Why does God love a nobody? Why does He meet our needs and fulfill our dreams?
I have no idea. But, I do know one thing, I am grateful for Him and glad I believe.
When I was in sixth grade my dream was to write a book -.
-Now, they are both available on Amazon.Com.
As a kid, my hope was to escape poverty by writing. -
-Now, I write two blogs and do freelancing.
My hopes as a teen were to have a car, warm house and family who loved me. -
-My husband does. I think my daughters do too. If all else fails, there's always the dog.
Growing up there was no health insurance and I was sick a lot.
- Now, I'm still sick but we have insurance and a physician who seems to care.
I used to dream of a car that would run.
-Now I have one. Well, Hubby, the bank, and I do...
I could go on... The kid my mother said would never amount to anything has been recognized by two US Presidents, speaks in churches, signs books, encourages clients, survived being raped, somehow managed to raise two daughters with chronic health issues and tries to keep up with friends even though she knows she misses the mark - and wants to apologize for it.
My life isn't perfect. My family struggles to pay bills. I worry about the nonprofit I run, our clients, my friends and the people I meet. Everyone has problems. But, some way, somehow, God always sees fit to bring us through. To me, that's very reassuring and very humbling.
The home of my childhood was not God friendly. But inside I always knew that there was something better "out there". I just wasn't sure I'd be able to find it.
Actually, I haven't found it yet. Not yet anyway. Somehow, God has found a way to find me.The nobody. The one who was told that she would drop out of high school, was "too stupid" for words, who was told would rot in a gutter somewhere and would never, ever, amount to anything - God reached to this kid, in the trenches, the valleys and on mountaintops. He picked me up. Dusted me off and loved me. I have no idea why. I have no idea what's in store.
But, I know that I am living the dreams that I had as a little girl. All of them. Plus more and I wonder how that can be? Why does God love a nobody? Why does He meet our needs and fulfill our dreams?
I have no idea. But, I do know one thing, I am grateful for Him and glad I believe.
Best Nonprofit Charity Blogs of 2008
Charity blogs have changed the way nonprofits communicate. They are proving to be effective way to get the word out about events, client stories and needs. Lots of nonprofits have them. Who's are the best? Why? What criteria were used? Read this article for a list of the Top Charity Blogs of 2008.
Some of the nonprofits listed include:
Blog Action Day
Compass - Sierra Club
Heifer Project
International Rescue Committee
New Sudan Education Initiative
Secondhand Hope
This list is alphabetical. Read Top Charity Blogs of 2008 for other blogs and to find out who tops the list!
Some of the nonprofits listed include:
Blog Action Day
Compass - Sierra Club
Heifer Project
International Rescue Committee
New Sudan Education Initiative
Secondhand Hope
This list is alphabetical. Read Top Charity Blogs of 2008 for other blogs and to find out who tops the list!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Top Worst Christmas Gifts for College Kids
What are the top worst gifts for college kids? Are you confused about shopping for college student gifts? At the University of Tennessee at Knoxville (and other colleges) there are rules that govern what kids can and can't have in their dorm room. Then, there are the items that kids just don't need.
Leading the list of top worst Christmas gifts is plants... If you give one to a college student expect it to die from either thirst or dust asphyxiation. That pretty poinsettia may not be the best gift for a college kid.
What are other bad gift ideas and why? Read this list of Top Worst Gifts for College Students. It's part of a series of articles that I wrote for Associated Content. This piece has proved to be one of the most popular so far. Click the link above to see why. Then after you read that you might want to take a look at my list of Best Cheap Gifts for College Students. Both articles have readers comments on them that you may enjoy reading too.
For more gift ideas for college students try:
College Gift Ideas
University Suite 101 College Gift Ideas
University of Tennessee Bookstore at Knoxville
Leading the list of top worst Christmas gifts is plants... If you give one to a college student expect it to die from either thirst or dust asphyxiation. That pretty poinsettia may not be the best gift for a college kid.
What are other bad gift ideas and why? Read this list of Top Worst Gifts for College Students. It's part of a series of articles that I wrote for Associated Content. This piece has proved to be one of the most popular so far. Click the link above to see why. Then after you read that you might want to take a look at my list of Best Cheap Gifts for College Students. Both articles have readers comments on them that you may enjoy reading too.
For more gift ideas for college students try:
College Gift Ideas
University Suite 101 College Gift Ideas
University of Tennessee Bookstore at Knoxville
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Top Tips for Budget Christmas Tree Decorating
My list of top tips for budget Christmas tree decorating came from personal experience.
In Christmas of 2000, Hubby and I discovered that most of our Christmas tree decorations had been destroyed during our move a few months earlier. Our Christmas budget was very tight. We simply had no money to replace any of the pile of Christmas tree decorations that were piled in front of us.. Distressed doesn't begin to cover how we felt. It was a challenge to come up with a way to decorate the tree without spending anything but we did it!
Our budget Christmas tree turned into the prettiest we've ever had!. We used candy canes, sugar cookies and lots of homemade items from things we had around the house.
For more on how we did it read this article on Budget Christmas Tree Decorating that I wrote for Associated Content.
Here's a couple of other websites for more ideas:
http://interiordec.about.com/od/cmasdiyorns/a/DIYcmasdeco.htm
eHow.Com Cheap Christmas Decorations
http://decoratingideasforchristmas.com/
In Christmas of 2000, Hubby and I discovered that most of our Christmas tree decorations had been destroyed during our move a few months earlier. Our Christmas budget was very tight. We simply had no money to replace any of the pile of Christmas tree decorations that were piled in front of us.. Distressed doesn't begin to cover how we felt. It was a challenge to come up with a way to decorate the tree without spending anything but we did it!
Our budget Christmas tree turned into the prettiest we've ever had!. We used candy canes, sugar cookies and lots of homemade items from things we had around the house.
For more on how we did it read this article on Budget Christmas Tree Decorating that I wrote for Associated Content.
Here's a couple of other websites for more ideas:
http://interiordec.about.com/od/cmasdiyorns/a/DIYcmasdeco.htm
eHow.Com Cheap Christmas Decorations
http://decoratingideasforchristmas.com/
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Free Christmas Events in Knoxville, TN
There are tons of free Christmas plays and pageants in Knoxville. Every corner of the city seems to have something to offer this holiday season. If your family is looking for inexpensive Christmas fun be sure to read the list I compiled for Associated Content. I was impressed at all the city has to offer. Now my calendar is filled with great, free Christmas events in Knoxville.
This photo is from the Christmas Tree Lighting at Krutch Park earlier this month. The event was part of the Regal Celebration of Lights at Market Square Mall. Like many of the events on the list above this one was both budget and family friendly. There are so many great low cost events in Knoxville that the biggest problem is going to be deciding which ones to attend. Have fun!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Cove Lake Christmas in the Park
The Cove Lake Christmas last night was so much fun! Despite the cold we all had a terrific time. Photos will be posted soon!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Cove Lake Christmas in the Park is Tonight
Cove Lake's famous Christmas in the Park is tonight. Activities include caroling, carriage rides, crafts, the lighting of the Christmas tree and over 2,500 luminaries - even fireworks. My husband's church, Jackboro United Methodist is participating. It should be a lot of fun. I can't wait to get there! The snowy weather adds a Christmas charm to the festivities. This should be an event to remember!
For more info please visit:
http://www.tnvacation.com/events/2101/
http://tn.gov/environment/parks/onetank/index.shtml/
For more info please visit:
http://www.tnvacation.com/events/2101/
http://tn.gov/environment/parks/onetank/index.shtml/
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