Wednesday's Hodgepodge

Take a break, join the fun!  Visit Joyce to link up. 

1. So, when did you last take a walk in the woods? A stroll along the beach? A drive going nowhere in particular in the car?


It has been too long since I have taken a stroll on the beach. The beach is only minutes from my house and one of my favorite places to be. Even in the winter I love to sit and watch the waves and enjoy God’s beautiful creation. I’ll have to make a better effort to get there. I went for a drive a couple of weeks ago going nowhere particular. Sometimes when I need quiet and to be alone I hop in the car and take a little drive.

2. Are you sending Christmas cards this year? About how many do you send? Photo card or something more traditional? How do you display the cards you receive?

Yes I hope to send Christmas cards this year. I send out about 70. I like to send a photo card of the kids. I still have to get that photo done so I can order my cards. Good thing you can order online at Costco and they have them ready the next day. I display the cards I receive by hanging them on ribbon that I fasten around the doorways in my living room.

3. What's a word you've heard too much of in the past week?

This question is difficult to answer. I guess I’d have to say “ER”. Since last Wednesday my husband has taken his father to the ER twice. He was having severe pain in his back. The first time they sent him home with Tylenol. The second time they had to give him a prescription for something stronger. Hopefully he won’t need to go back.

4. December 13th is National Cocoa Day-are you a fan? Plain or flavored? Marshmallows or no marshmallows?

I like plain hot cocoa with marshmallows. Well really I like it with whipped cream sprayed in on the top but since I am off cow’s milk that option is out.

5. What is something you do to help alleviate the hectic pace of the Christmas season?

Light a candle and sit down with a cup of tea or coffee and just breathe.

6. Besides jewelry, what's a favorite sparkly-glittery item in your home or closet?

The ceramic snowman that my mother-in-law made and I put out at Christmas time. I can plug it in and the eyes and the wreath he is holding lights up. It is glittery all over to look like the sparkling snow.

7. Share a favorite line or two from any Christmas carol.

I have so many favorites. Here is one from “Hark The Herald Angels Sing”:

Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I need to buy a grab bag gift for this weekend. What is your favorite thing to receive at a grab bag ($10-$15)? Thanks.
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

Join the fun over at Joyce's!

1. Share your traditions surrounding the Christmas stocking.


We hang our Christmas stockings on a mirror that hangs in our hallway. We don’t have a fireplace or a mantel so I found that spot works well. I usually put an orange in them along with necessities like toothbrushes or hand sanitizers along with some fun little toys for the kids and candy. We usually forget to open our stockings and end up doing it late Christmas night or the next day.

2. How many hours of sleep do you average at night? Is it enough?

On average I would say 8. I try for 9 since it was suggested to me by a doctor. It is necessary to get good sleep to heal your adrenal glands. Since stress affects your adrenal glands I am sure everyone could benefit from good sleep ;) Yes, it is enough although I would always probably choose more if given the choice.

3. If you had to give up one thing for the remainder of this year what would it be?

I don’t want to pick food since I already gave up bananas, cow’s milk and eggs this year. I had some testing done and have intolerances to those. How about ironing? I could give it up if I had to and it might motivate me to get my clothes out of the dryer when it goes off ;)

4. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (or Wills and Kate as I like to call them) have announced they're expecting a baby. Do you follow news of the Royals?

No, I don’t follow news of the Royals unless it is on Joyce’s blog. I am very happy for them though.

5. For me, the sound of childhood is__________________.

Laughter.

6. Fruit cake-yay or boo? What's your favorite dessert made with fruit?

I don’t want to say boo because it is a traditional Christmas dessert but I am not particularly fond of it. My favorite dessert made with fruit is apple pie. Good old American Apple Pie .

7. What is one thing you want to accomplish before 2012 comes to an end?

I would like to sell some items on ebay. I am trying to get rid of some things and make a few bucks while I am at it.

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

Does anyone know how to change the font of your blog using the new blogger? 

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today over at Joyce's.  Visit her and join the fun! 

1. With that being said I think I need to dive right in to some Christmas related questions, don't you? Which do you prefer-pretty gift wrap with a bow or a pretty gift bag with/without a bow? What percentage of your holiday gifts are currently (as in right this very minute) wrapped in some form or fashion?


I prefer gift wrap with a bow but some things just fit better in a gift bag. I have not wrapped any Christmas gifts yet since I haven’t bought any ;) I am still in Thanksgiving mode.

2. What is one item on your list this year?

I haven’t officially made my list yet. I don’t have anything that I have been waiting to ask for in mind. Maybe after I read some other Hodgepodger’s answers that will change ;)

3. What makes a home?

Family, love and warmth make a home. No matter where you are if you have those things it will feel like home. We have a very small house but I try hard to make it a home. I want all who enter to feel comfortable and welcomed. One of the greatest compliments I can receive is that my house feels “homey” and that guests feel welcome. 

4. Motown founder Berry Gordy celebrates his birthday on Hodgepodge Day-November 28th. Are you a fan of the Motown sound? If so, who's your favorite Motown artist and/or song? Here's a list in case you're stuck.

I love Motown. My Dad listens to it and I have great memories of Motown playing on the radio while in his car when I was a kid. It makes me smile. When I was teaching second grade I had my class put on a tribute to Motown for Black History Month. We had so much fun singing and dancing. If I have to pick a favorite it would have to be The Four Tops.

5. Red or green-which one is more prevalent in your closet?

Red, I like to wear read for Christmas and Valentine’s Day. 


6. True or false-bacon makes it better? If you answered true, what's your favorite dish made with bacon?

True. I don’t eat it anymore because I am not eating eggs, but I would have to say my Grandmother’s recipe for potato salad. We boil the potatoes then peel and slice them thin when they cooled. Then we add bacon, onion, vinegar, s&p, and mayo. The finishing touches were pouring some of the bacon fat into it along with a raw egg.  Delicious!

7. Share a favorite holiday memory.

One of my favorite holiday memories is driving out east with my husband and children to cut down our own Christmas tree.  We stop off for hot chocolate on the way home and listen to Christmas music in the car.  We laugh and enjoy each other's company.  There is much joy as we get ready to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior! 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Last week we celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary.  We were married the Saturday after Thanksgiving and this year our anniversary fell on the same day of the week.  Throughout the day I was remembering what I was doing at that exact time on our wedding day.  It seems like so long ago yet at the same time like it was just yesterday. 

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

                    Join in the fun over at Joyce's today. 

1. Turkey-love it or leave it? White meat or dark? What's your favorite thing to make using leftover turkey?


I usually choose the white meat so that my husband and children can have the dark meat, which is their favorite.  I like both though.  I love to make a turkey sandwich with stuffing on rye bread with the leftovers.  If there is lots leftover I like to make a turkey pot pie.  I usually plan for lots of leftovers.  I am making a 22 lb. turkey for 7 people at dinner. 

2. Gotta burn off all those carbs the day after a holiday feast so which would you rather do-run a 10K or climb a mountain?

On my own I wouldn't choose either but if I was forced to pick one it would be climbing a mountain.  At least then I could stop and pant, right?  I have always loved the idea of being a runner but am not very good at it...at all!  

3. Do you feel like social networking has made your relationships better or worse? Explain.

I would say it has improved my relationships because I have made many special friends through it. 

4. How do you find and express gratitude for the hard things in your life?

Knowing that everything that comes into my life is part of God's perfect plan and for my good and His glory helps me to be grateful. 
"For we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."  Romans 8:28

5. In the US, the day after Thanksgiving has been dubbed 'Black Friday'. Is most of your holiday shopping done live and in person, or is it done more through the magic of the Internet? How do you feel about stores opening at midnight Thanksgiving night? Will you be out amongst the masses on Friday?

Most of my shopping is done through the Internet.  My husband and I usually go out shopping one night and get all the things that are left in person. 
I don't think that the stores should open on Thanksgiving night.  I think those employees should be given the day off to spend with their families.  After all people can live without shopping that day unlike without a doctor or a police officer.  I have no plans to be out shopping on Friday.
 
6. Speaking of the color black-which black item in your wardrobe would you say is your favorite?

Do shoes count?  If so it would be my new $59 shoes that I bought with a coupon code for $18.99 from Lands End.  They are so comfy that I ordered another pair in any color they had available which ended up being navy. 

7. What do you appreciate about your life today?

My family and friends.  The freedom to worship God and to gather with my church family.  The priviledge of  homeschooling my children and creating a home for my husband and children. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Happy Thanksgiving! 
~Theresa

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... it is dark out now.  Today was brisk and gray. 

I am thinking... I left the drapes out on the line and need to get those in.  I don't think they are completely dry but maybe I can just iron them and put them up. 

I am thankful... that we were safe throughout Hurricane Sandy.  We were part of the 10% on Long Island that didn't lose power :)  I kind of feel bad saying that knowing that so many lost so much. 

In the kitchen... meatballs are simmering in a pot of sauce on the stove.  I will boil up some spaghetti and add a veggie for dinner.

I am wearing... gray yoga pants and a teal v-neck.  I dressed comfortably today as I was busy doing laundry, cleaning and organizing.

I am creating... why do I always feel so uncreative when I get to this question?!

I am going... to be busy getting ready for Thanksgiving.  I made a turkey yesterday for our church Thanksgiving meal and will be making another on Thursday. 

I am wondering... why people do the things they do ;)

I am reading... the bible, Lies Women Believe and Young Pilgrim's Progress with my children.   

I am hoping... that my meatballs come out delicious without the egg.

I am looking forward to... celebrating Thanksgiving on Thursday and then my 11th wedding anniversary on Saturday. 

I am learning... that God's ways are the best ways. 

Around the house... there is a pile of Thanksgving books on my kitchen table that need to be cleared so the table can be set for dinner.  The blinds need to be closed and the drapes drawn for the night.  I am enjoying all of the fall decorations. 

I am pondering... when to speak up and when to keep quiet.

A favorite quote for today...

Do The Next Thing

(quoted by Elizabeth Elliot)

From an old English parsonage, down by the sea

There came in the twilight a message to me;

Its quaint Saxon legend, deeply engraven,

Hath, as it seems to me, teaching from Heaven.

And on through the hours the quiet words ring

Like a low inspiration--"DO THE NEXT THING."Many a question, many of fear,

Many a doubt, hath its quieting here.

Moment by moment, let down from Heaven,

Time, opportunity, guidance, are given.

Fear not tomorrows, Child of the King,

Trust them with Jesus, "DO THE NEXT THING."Do it immediately; do it with prayer;

Do it reliantly, casting all care;

Do it with reverence, tracing His Hand

Who placed it before thee with earnest command.

Stayed on Omnipotence, safe 'neath His wing,

Leave all resultings, "DO THE NEXT THING."Looking to Jesus, ever serener,

(Working or suffering) be thy demeanor,

In His dear presence, the rest of His calm,

The light of His countenance be thy psalm,

Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing,

Then, as He beckons thee, "DO THE NEXT THING."

Isn't that a great encouragemant?  I love that reminder. 

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Woman's Daybook. 
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I'm joining the fun over at Joyce's today.  Won't you join me?

1. What rule of life should never be broken?

"Treat others as you would like to be treated."


2. What's your favorite family recipe?

It would have to be cheesecake.  My Mom makes the best cheesecake from a recipe that is called "Anna's cheesecake" although I don't know who Anna is.  I believe it was passed down through the family.  I have made it a couple of times although I put cherries or strawberries on top since it usually cracks on me. 


3. Is the media manipulative?

Yes, I believe so.  Everyone has an opinion and unfortunately many have an agenda. 


4. Hubs and I saw Skyfall last weekend...are you a fan of the Bond films? If so, who's your favorite Bond?

No, I am not a big action movie fan. 

5. What is one thing you hope people never say about you?

I hope people never say that I was a hypocrite.  I hope that I live my life in a way that reflects what I say and believe. 

6. What's a nearby tourist attraction you'd like to see, but haven't gotten around to visiting?

This may be hard to believe but I have never been to The Statue of Liberty.  It isn't something I think of often living here in NY.  It would be a site to see though and I would love to visit Ellis Island. 


7. Where's your favorite tree?

My favorite is the maple tree, especially in the fall.  Isn't it gorgeous?!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Please keep those affected by Sandy in your prayers.  There is still much devastation here on Long Island.  I just heard yesterday that a friend from high school lost her home.  She is one of many. 

"The Lord’s our Rock, in Him we hide,


A Shelter in the time of storm;

Secure whatever ill betide,

A Shelter in the time of storm."

~Theresa

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY




Outside my window... the storm is a brewin'. The wind is gusting and howling.  This morning the lid to the sandbox in our yard was blown off. 

I am thinking...  I hope we don't lose power. 

I am thankful... for electricity.  I can use my dishwasher, washing machine and dryer, fans, watch TV, cook on my stove, and turn on my lights.  So easy to take for granted the things we use everyday. 

In the kitchen... I baked pumpkin bread and oatmeal raisin muffins last night knowing that I may not be able to use my oven soon if we lose power.  I want to make some cookies and bake some chicken today. 

I am wearing... my pjs still.  Pink Lands End pants and a red Old Navy flag t-shirt. 

I am creating...

I am going... to the chiro. later this week is the weather clears up and power is on. 

I am wondering... how much longer until the worse part of the storm hits. 

I am reading... The Bible- right now in the book of Colossians for my morning time.  I took out two allergy-free cooking books from the library that I am enjoying: "The Food Allergy Mama's Baking Book" by Kelly Rudnicki and "The Divvies Bakery Cookbook" by Lori Sandler. 

I am hoping... that all my family and friends stay safe through SANDY. 

I am looking forward to... this storm passing. 

I am learning... how to trust the Lord in all things. 

Around the house... most of  the curtains and blinds are still closed.  The news is on and we are waiting. 

I am pondering... why people don't evacuate when they are warned. 

A favorite quote for today...

"Jesus is a rock in a weary land!

Weary land! Weary land!
Jesus is a rock in a weary land!
Shelter in the time of storm!"

One of my favorite things... the smell of baked goodies coming from the kitchen. 

A few plans for the rest of the week:.. not sure yet.  For now just bunkering down.

Join in sharing your daybook here.http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/ 

~Theresa

Wednesday Hodgepodge

I am linking up with Joyce for another great week of hodgepodge. 

1. So, do you like beer?

I like root beer and kielbasa cooked in beer. 

2. What's your least favorite repetitive task?

Exercising.  I know it is good for me but honestly don't like it.  I have to force myself to go through the motions and then I feel great afterwards. 

3. When was the last time you rode a bus? Where was it headed?

If given the choice I would never choose public transportation.  When I was a young girl I was on a bus in the city and I smiled at an old bag lady.  She started cursing me out.  Thankfully there was an off duty police officer on the bus that calmed me down. 
I took a shuttle bus at a golf outing about six years ago.  The parking was so far away, it was raining and we had our two little ones with us so it made perfect sense. 

4. What song from your childhood or from your own children's childhood could make a parent's nerves stand on end?

This is the song that never ends.....

5. The US Presidential election cycle is drawing to a close (can I get an AMEN??), and the third and final debate was held last night...what was the last thing you 'debated about'?

Well it was a friendly debate but rather deep.  It was about God's forgiveness vs. having to pay for your sins. 

6. Can a person make too much money? How much is too much?

I don't think so.  There are lots of great things to do with money.  However any amount that makes someone too selfish is too much for them. 

7. Pop-soda-coke-something else...what's it called where you live?

Soda is what we call it here on Long Island. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

The phone calls are just beginning for the upcoming election.  I think I am going to have to lower my ringers and stop answering "unavailable".

~Theresa

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY


Outside my window... it is dark and the crickets are chirping.

I am thinking... it will be time to watch the debate soon.

I am thankful... for Sundays. A day of rest and gathering with the saints to worship and fellowship.

In the kitchen... clean dishes and leftovers are put away. We had grilled steak, mashed potatoes (boiled potatoes for me) and green beans.

I am wearing... denim capris and a gray button down with a coral tank.

I am creating... a warm home for my family. 

I am going... to acupuncture this week :)

I am wondering... how to respond graciously to every situation. 

I am reading... the Bible, Lies Women Believe, fall magazines.

I am looking forward to... a hot cup of tea while I relax on the couch tonight.

I am learning... that not everyone thinks the same way as I do and it isn't always easy to get along well with others.

Around the house... the laundry hamper is filling up. I didn't feel like doing laundry today so I didn't. That is not so easy for me.

I am pondering... why certain things bother me so much.

A favorite quote for today... "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."  Matthew 6:33
One of my favorite things... spiced cider. I bought some at Trader Joe's and it is delicious.

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook.

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

Link up with Joyce and join the fun!

1. Noah Webster was born this week back in 1758....besides the online version, do you own a dictionary? Do you ever use the hardback copy or is your hunt for a definition strictly online these days?


Yes, I do own a dictionary or two.  The children have a couple on the shelf in the schoolroom too.  I haven't used one for myself in a long time.  If I need a definition I Google it. 

2. Should public schools ban Halloween celebrations? What about other holiday celebrations currently under fire?

Well since I don't celebrate Halloween I would say no.  Also I still remember when I was in public school there was a fourth grade teacher who would dress up as a witch and go around to all the classrooms and barge in scaring the kids.  One year I remember one of the kids being so scared they threw up in the sink. 
As for the other holidays under fire....I don't know. Our country was founded as a Christian nation so I think public schools should acknowledge and celebrate those holidays. 
When I taught in the public schools I always had Christmas decorations up and no one ever complained.  If there were Jewish children in my class or I worked with a Jewish teacher then they shared about their holiday. 

3. What's your favorite 'dog' movie?

I would have to say "Lady and The Tramp". 
4. When were you last somewhere you'd describe as 'too quiet'?

Sometimes when I am alone in the car it is too quiet so I turn on the radio and open all the windows. 
5. Are you a neat cook or a messy cook? In other words do you clean as you go or make a big mess and then deal with it later?

I don't think of myself as a neat cook but I do clean as I go.  I think part of the reason why I do that is I have a small kitchen so I need the room.  As an ingredient is used it gets returned to the pantry.  I put used measuring cups and bowls in the sink to wash when I am all done.  I like everything to be clean so when the food is done I can sit and enjoy it.  Just last night I was baking oatmeal raisin cookies with my daughter and I found myself telling her to put something away before getting the next thing needed.

6. Did you hear about Felix Baumgartner, the skydiver who broke the sound barrier via parachute? Was your first thought COOL! or was your first thought CRAZY! Are you adventurous?

CRAZY!  I am not adventurous anymore.  As someone who deals with dizziness just the thought of skydiving makes my head spin and my stomach turn. 

7. What's not a word but should be?

Gazillion.  I used Google to help me with that one ;)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

These questions have me thinking that I should use my dictionary more ;)

~Theresa

Simple Woman's Daybook

Outside my window... the sun is hiding and there is a nice breeze. 

I am thinking... I am glad we finished our schoolwork for the day. 

I am thankful for... cool, fall breezes.
From the learning rooms... North Carolina (we are studying the states and capitals), math, penmanship, reading, spelling.
From the kitchen... penne and a meat sauce for dinner.  The tomato sauce is simmering and smells good :)

I am wearing... khaki Bermuda shorts and a purple print shirt.  I haven't put away my summer clothes just yet.

I am going... to the doctor, book club, soccer and church this week. 
I am reading... the Bible, "Lies Women Believe" and a biography on Fanny Crosby. 
I am hearing... a click ticking, a bird calling and the TV.
One of my favorite things: jeans.  There is nothing like a comfy pair of jeans on a cool fall day. 

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook.
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I'm linking up over at Joyce's today.  Visit her and join the fun!

1. In what ways do you indulge yourself?

I don't think I do often but every so often I will treat myself to a coffee out.  I don't think it makes much sense to spend $3 on a coffee when I can make several pots for that price, so for me it is an indulgence.

2. Have you ever taken a cooking class? Any interest? What type of class would you most like to try?

No, I have never taken a cooking class.  I don't really have an interest in taking one although if I had to I would pick a cake decorating class.  Does that count?

3. What does it mean to be a good citizen?

A good citizen follows the law and looks out for others.  They realize they are part of a community and see what they can do for the good of that community. 

4. 'Tis the season of the political advert...do these ads influence your vote?

I don't think they influence my vote because to be honest there are so many of them it is hard to believe any of them. 

5. What's something you see today that makes you wish you were a kid again?

I tried not to come up with a technology related question but...I have to say texting.  I don't text as an adult but I am sure it makes things easier for a kid.  I remember as a kid trying to call my friends on the phone.  If the phone was busy it was so annoying.  There was no call waiting back then and the only way to get through was to call the operator and ask her to make an emergency break-through.  Then you prayed that it was your friend on the phone and not her parents.  I realize that not being able to get in touch with your friend for fifteen minutes isn't really such a big deal, but when you are a kid it sure feels like it. 

6. What's your least favorite cliche?

"Pardon my French".  Well usually that is followed by the offensive language.  So my thought is if one can think enough to say "Pardon my French" then one can think enough to choose a better way of expressing yourself.  If it is said after the offending words, what is French about it anyway?

7. What percentage of your Christmas shopping has been completed? How does that make you feel?

Zero.  That makes me feel great.  I don't do my Christmas shopping until December, and often it is the week before Christmas.  I like to enjoy each season without thinking too much of the next season.  For now I think about Thanksgiving, after that I start thinking more about Christmas.  If I do see something I'd like to buy for a gift I always think I may get a better price if I wait. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.   Way to go- to all those who have started their Christmas shopping.  I know for many that is how they work best.  Plus I now I have some cliches on my mind- LOL. 
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up over at Joyce's today.  Visit her and join the fun!
1. It's a brand new month...share one thing you're looking forward to in October.

Apple picking.  I love fall and one of the things we like to do is drive out east on The North Fork and go apple picking.  The weather this week has been rainy so we will have to find a nice sunny day to go while there are still apples left on the trees. 

2. Is chivalry dead? Explain.

No, I don't believe so.  There are still many today who practice chivalry but sadly it seems they don't get too much attention.  Our society would rather pay attention to the negative rather than the positive.  Then there are those who don't want doors opened for them or their chair pulled out for them.  They have the "I can do it myself" mindset.  The Feminist Movement has had a lot to do with that, IMHO. 

3. On October 2, 1950 the Peanuts comic strip made its debut. Which character is your favorite? Which character is most like you? (Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Snoopy, Woodstock or Pig Pen) If you need a description click here.

Charlie Brown.  I checked the descriptions and took an online quiz to confirm ;)  Charlie Brown often says the things that I think but would never say aloud. 

4. What's something you're competitive about?

Playing board games and cards.  I don't like to lose and I have to remind myself that it is only a game.  Still, I like to win. 

5. October is National Popcorn Popping Month...are you a fan? How do you like your popcorn?

Yes, I am a popcorn fan.  I like to use our airpopper to make it and then drizzle it with melted butter.  I don't like packaged popcorn unless it is Kettle Korn, which is the perfect balance of salty and sweet. 

6. When did you first realize the world is small?

Well this may be a long story ;)  When my husband and I were engaged my great aunt was very sick and was in the hospital dying.  One night I was at my now husband's parents' house and talking to his mom.  I happened to mention my aunt's name and her eyes almost popped out of her head.  She started asking me questions like  "Where did she grow up?" and "What are her siblings' names?"  Once I answered she told me that she used to sit on the stoop with her sister and my aunt and her sister when they were teenagers.  She remembers my mother being in a baby carriage while my aunt babysat her.  Both my aunt and now mother-in-law were in their 70s when we found this out.  We tried to arrange a meeting but my aunt passed away quickly.  That is a small world! 
It amazes me to think that before I was even born my family and my husband's family were crossing paths.  And even more amazing is that God knew that one day I would marry my husband! 

7. In terms of architecture, what's the most beautiful building you've seen up close and in person?

Well being a New Yorker I would have to say my favorite is the Chrysler Building. 

(picture from thecityreview.com)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I was browsing through my pictures and found this one.  Aren't cinnamon rolls the perfect fall snack?  I am going to have to make a batch. 

Simple Woman's Daybook

Outside my window... it is a warm, sunny fall day.  The sun is shining brightly and there is a gentle breeze. 

I am thinking... what a Monday!   Funny how we have our plan for the day and the Lord sometimes shows us He has another.  We had a little flood in the basement today and I spent much of the day cleaning up and washing all the clothes that got wet. 

I am thankful for... my wonderful aunt.  Happy Birthday Aunt Carol (in case you are reading ;)

From the learning rooms... Christopher Columbus, math, penmanship, reading, writing, science, spelling, etc. 

From the kitchen... I made linzer tarts last night.  I am happy to have found a recipe without eggs.  Today I was planning on putting a pot roast in the crockpot but never got to it with the basement ordeal.  My husband offered to pick up pizza since he knows I am tired from all that cleaning up.

I am wearing... black Bermuda shorts and a hot pink t-shirt.

I am going... apple picking (I hope) this week. 

I am reading... the Bible, "Lies Women Believe".

I am hearing... the fan spinning.  After a while I get tired of hearing it and shut it off ;)

One of my favorite things: driving out east on The North Fork.  I hope we will do that this week and I can visit some farm stands and go apple picking. 

Please excuse any formatting issues with this post.  I am just learning how to use the new blogger layout.  I like the old one much better!
Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. What's the best and worst thing thing about growing older?

The best I would have to say is not caring as much about the little things. When you are younger the things that seem so important usually really aren't that important. The worst thing is getting pesky gray hairs.

2. Autumn arrives this week in the Northern Hemisphere...what one thing do you love most about the fall season?

One thing I love about fall (there are many things I love about fall) is the crisp air and the sound of leaves crackling beneath my feet. Oops...is that two?!

3. Speaking of fall...pumpkin seems to be flavoring everything these days-are you a fan? What's your favorite pumpkin flavored food or beverage?

I like pumpkin as long as it is mixed with something. My favorite would have to be chocolate chip pumpkin cookies. This year I will try replacing the egg with applesauce. Here is the recipe from my friend Amy:

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp cinnamon
3/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda

1 egg
1/2 c pumpkin
1 c sugar
1 stick butter
1 tsp vanilla
6 oz. chocolate chips
1/2 c pecans (optional, I don't use them)

Cream together butter and sugar. Beat in egg and pumpkin and set aside, Blend first 7 ingredients; fold in pumpkin mixture. Add vanilla, chocolate chips and nuts (if using). Drop by tsp on ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 10 minutes.


4. Since we're on the subject of fall...what's the worst fall you've ever taken?

Besides falling down the stairs a couple of times, which was nothing serious I would have to say falling off the back of a moped when I was a kid. I chipped my front tooth and tore open my upper lip and knee. I may have told my parents that I fell when my dog pulled me while walking him. He had a habit of doing that when he saw other dogs or squirrels. Really though he was a nice German hunting dog :)

5. If you could own a prop from any film what would you choose?

The Delorean from Back to the Future.



6. What's the most interesting word you've read or learned in the past week?

I don't know. I guess I should have written it down ;)

7. When was the last time you locked yourself out of your house, car, or office? Was it a big deal?

Only once that I remember. It was about eight years ago and I locked myself out of my car with my baby daughter in it. It was a huge deal. My pocketbook was on the front seat with my cell phone in it and I had just loaded the car with groceries. Thankfully there was a delivery man that listened to me when I called out to him and he used a Slim Jim to get my door open.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

The kids are watching a Shirley Temple movie. Isn't she so cute? Too bad they don't make movies like they used to!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is sunny and warm. I am still waiting for the cooler temperatures during the day. It is cool in the morning and at night but inbetween it gets quite warm.

I am thinking... what am I going to make for dinner?

I am thankful for... good family and friends.

From the learning rooms... math, spelling, phonics, penmanship, reading, and we learned about Massachusetts as part of our states and capitals study.

From the kitchen... for lunch we had penne with leftover marinara sauce that I used to make pizza yesterday. I have no clue what I am making tonight but better think of something fast!


I am wearing... khaki shorts and a pink polo.

I am going... to lunch with friends, book club, soccer and church this week.

I am reading... the Bible, "Lies Women Believe".

I am hearing... the fan. I told you it was warm today ;)

One of my favorite things: pumpkin spice lattes. I went to order one today at Starbuck's- decaf with soy- and just before handing it to me the nice barista told me that the pumpkin spice contains condensed milk. I had to refuse it since I am not supposed to have cow's milk. I saved myself $4.75 anyway ;) Well really I have a gift card to use so it isn't my money. Now I will have to make my own and figure out a milk free version. I was thinking of sprinkling pumpkin pie spice on the coffee right before I brew it or maybe just replacing the milk with soy or almond milk in this recipe.

Have a great week :)

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? The NFL is back in action along with all the college teams. Are you a fan? Who do you root for? If you're not a fan what do you do while the rest of America watches Saturday, Sunday, Monday night, and now Thursday night games?

I like watching football every once in a while but am never really glued to the screen unless it is The Super Bowl and my team, the NFL Champions, the NY Giants are in it :) I wrote about it in Wednesday's Hodgepodge back in February.

2. What's something I'll always find in your closet?

A pair of black dress pants. Black goes with everything right? In the summer I can wear them with a dressy top and a pair of wedge sandals and in the winter I can wear them with a nice sweater or top and a pair of dress boots.

3. Share one of your earliest memories.

Playing in the doll corner in my kindergarten classroom. That was when you first learned to write your name with those big, fat, red pencils. Not like kindergarten today! And is it me or were kindergarten teachers always older ladies back then? Now it seems like there are lots of young teachers getting kindergarten positions. Not that there is anything wrong with that, it is just much different.

4. What circus act best describes your week so far?

The ring master. We started back to our homeschool this week and I have been keeping everyone on task ;)


5. What's a food you disliked as a child but you love now?

Pumpkin pie. I thought the smell was so strong when I was a kid but now I guess my sense of smell has matured- LOL.

6. Describe your summer in three words.

Hot, relaxing, fun.

7. Where were you on September 11, 2001? Will you do anything special to mark the day this year?

I was teaching second grade at a lovely public school at the time. We were getting ready for the children to arrive and start the day when I heard. All of the teachers were taking turns going into the teacher's lounge to watch the news. We still didn't know all the details when we had to greet our class and keep things going. I remember on my break I met with my teacher's aide and the guidance counselor and we prayed together.
This year I thought about the day and some of my students. I remembered that one of my student's birthdays is on 9/11 and his uncle was a NYC firefighter who died that day. I hope that he is able to find some joy on his birthday all these years later.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am still in a New York State of Mind today.