Just Day Dreamin'

Did you know daydreaming is good for you?
Now, of course you wanna be choosy about when and where,
but what a way to relax. . .(might help the next time you're in the dentist's chair)

Go ahead try it - think about that place where you feel happy, and peaceful. . .
imagine yourself there, with all the sights, sounds and smells

I'm dreamin' of when...

I can sit out in my garden again...
and enjoy God's marvelous handiwork

of when...
the garden path will actually lead us to
all those yummy things
... just waiting to be appreciated

when...
the colours and smells of spring come alive
and we feel the sun's warmth blanket us, once again!

yes, I'm daydreamin'...

of sharing some long-awaited warmer days
with some very precious little people...
some of whom will be discovering the 'feel' of summer for the first time!

Oh I can't wait
... but I guess I'll have to!
once again, Lord, I'll make it through... once again
...by your grace


Thank you for that hope today!!!

MATTHEW UPDATE

Some of you have been asking how little Matthew has been doing since the terrible burns he suffered a few weeks ago. Here's the latest from his auntie...
Matthew did have to undergo surgery again unfortunately, however, the doctors say the second grafts went much better than the first time and are healing beautifully! PTL!!! Continue to keep him in your prayers. Tomorrow he gets the staples out which may not be a whole lot of fun either.
Otherwise, the burns on the rest of his body (which they didn't graft) are healing well and some of those bandages have now been taken off. If all goes well tomorrow, he may be able to leave the hospital in a couple of days, but will still need to remain close to the hospital until probably next week.
So, continue to keep his mom, dad & baby sister in your prayers too. It's not easy for them being away from home all this time.
On another positive note, they're taking Matthew off his morphine (for 6 hours at a time) and, other than being a little restless, he's doing quite well with that.
So keep those prayers going up on behalf of this family...and don't forget to thank Him for all those things, both great and small, that we take for granted every day.

Added recipe

As promised, albeit rather late, I have finally added the recipe for the pretzels (on the sidebar under "In the kitchen"). So, if you enjoy the recipe or have variation suggestions, I would love to hear from you.

Also, somewhere in the near future I'm going to be doing my own giveaway, some Pampered Chef - so we'll see who actually reads this blog. It's time to come out of the woodwork and make yourself known. I really would love to know who you are. Not too scary really, and who knows, you might win something. So....KEEP WATCHING! Once I SEE that I have a few people interested, I'll reveal what Pampered Chef product I'll be giving away. Since I'm a consultant, it could be just about anything. Suggestions?

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST!!!

Well, today I'm hoping for many readers even though I haven't been keeping up with this blogging thing very well lately! PLEASE READ ON...

There's a two year old boy, his name is Matthew, who was severely burned a week ago. Matthew was visiting with his mommy at grandma's house where grandma and mommy were making some spaghetti sauce. Matthew, in his little two-year-old mind decided he wanted to help stir the sauce and so when they weren't looking he somehow managed to get to the stove and pull the entire pot of spaghetti sauce down onto his little body.
Matthew is in Winnipeg and had his first surgery on Thursday for skin grafting. Imagine what that must be like....I can't!! Just having a two-year-old grandson myself, my heart is just overwhelmed and breaking for this family.

SO, whatever you're doing....STOP, yes.. right now....and send up your prayers for this little boy and his family. Pray that his body would heal miraculously that he wouldn't need more painful surgeries. Pray that the skin grafting he just received will take, and heal beyond all expectation. Then there's the burden of the expenses this family will be facing since this is the second time in a short while that they will have an ambulance bill coming in the mail, not to mention taking time off work and having to stay and eat away from home in order to be by his side. You see, just weeks before this Matthew's mom went into premature labour and delivered her second child 5-6 weeks early. So, although they've become all too familiar with the hospitals and streets of Winnipeg, their lives are once again disrupted as they eat, sleep and breathe life in critical care.

If you want to help out, there's a donation box set up at a bake sale TODAY at the Southland Mall. Sorry, for those who don't know where I'm talking about, I won't post the details here, but you can send me an email and I'll get you more info. I wish I could have posted this earlier, but only learned of this last night. Thankfully God is not limited by time or any of these details, so send up those prayers!!

Afternoon in the valley...

This afternoon Glen & Anna invited us to join them

at their cabin in the back 40

for some tobogganing and 'fresh air' hiking.
It was a gorgeous day so we figured we were up for it.
Since the cabin isn't accessible by road in the winter,
you have to park on the road and hike in.
Although it was nothing like the first year when we
hiked in snow up to our hips, it was still a good work-out..
(work-out does NOT sufficienty describe what we did)
I think I scared away all the wildlife with my
huffing and puffing...and grunting..
oh, but it felt good....eventually :)

not sure we should go that way dear


it'll be a while before we enjoy sitting at
this table again


the boys in tow back to the top


taking a break...

or stock-piling ammo??!


nice slide Dust (sorry...what is that called?)


ummm...maybe in a few months we'll try this one...
after I'm in shape


our view from the cabin as we enjoyed some
sloppy joes & grilled cheese with the hot iron...
beautiful way to end a wonderful day.

Thanks guys for the invite!!

Memory lapse...

Ok...so I obviously haven't posted enough recipes because after adding a new recipe today I can't remember how to get it to show up on the sidebar.
I'll get it yet, but it's there if you go to the 'kitchen' link from my profile.

Food to warm the soul...

Lately I've been in a slump as far as feeling
like I've accomplished much of anything.

Yesterday was my day off and often I just feel like vegging...
however, this turned out to be an energy-burst kind of day.
Actually... as I was lying in bed contemplating what
the day would look like and thinking how wonderful
it would feel to sleep in,
I suddenly remembered I had made a haircut appointment..
... in 20 mins!
Up I jump and fly into the shower... don't know about you,
but I don't like to leave the house before I'm feeling fresh and clean!!
Funny how quickly I can get ready if I have to!!

While out I managed to get one other thing
checked off my "To Do" list - felt good!
Came home for what I thought would be a short while
before heading out to do a few more errands... and then...
I got the urge...no DESIRE...to make something special for supper.
Now, I don't mind cooking usually, but coming up with the menu is
always the challenge.

I decided on Italian sweet and sour sausage... it's one of our favorites
and I love making it because it's so simple!
Bonus... makes the house smell like you've slaved all day!


This is all you need..
(farmer sausage, Italian-style tomatoes and tomato sauce,
vinegar and brown sugar)

With that taken care of and some extra time on my hands
I decided to try my hand at making... PRETZELS!!
Might not sound like a big deal to you,
but ever since I experienced REAL german pretzels
I've been on the hunt for a good clone.
I think this recipe comes close....and yes, I want to share!

These were absoloutely yummy and the texture
was so close to what I remember...
just need to make them bigger next time!
The three of us ate every last one of them at dinner...
The recipe? it's a keeper and I'll share it in the next couple of days.
What's cookin' at your house??

ever happen to you???

I head to our bathroom to brush the pearlies

open the cabinet door and find this....

my favourite toothpaste :)


SQUEEZED flat!!

well... I figure
I can squeeze some more out of that!!

and I do..


wait a second...
something's wrong with this picture!



my toothbrush isn't green
- it's turquoise!!!
ARGHH!

A whirlwind.......

I know it's been a while but as you can see from the last few posts, not only was our life busy with all things Christmas, we also had birthdays and a birth to celebrate!

A little recap...

Christmas was such a delight now that we could finally see and hold the newest family addition.. Jillian is such a sweetie and we're so grateful she's here! She made it into this world on time to take part in the Baby Dedication service a few days later!

We missed our first Christmas program in 27 years in our church! I must say that it felt a little odd. We had a gathering to go to and since none of our kids were involved in the program this year, we didn't go. Our Youth actually did an entire service the week before Christmas. They did an amazing job and when the entire Youth group went on stage to sing at the end, I had goosebumps! I hope this becomes a new Christmas tradition.

It was interesting to work around feeding schedules and nap times but we did manage to do the traditional Christmas Eve pizza & candlelight and all the little ones were awake when we opened presents. Rowan was especially fun to watch. A little tradition we have is for each person to say what they're thankful for. Even Rowan participated. When asked what makes him happy, he quickly responded, "Selah makes me happy!" He's so sweet with her. I can't wait to watch these little ones growing up together.

In between gatherings we managed to get in a combined birthday party for Warren & Heather. They both enjoy the same kind of food so coming up with a menu was the easy part. What I hadn't planned on was working until almost 4:30 - Yikes!! I rushed home and amazed myself at how quickly I could make 5 dozen vereneke - a record for me for sure :)

What would normally have been a house full of youngsters playing and adults in every room, turned out to be a much smaller event as we got together with my extended family. Some couldn't be there due to other gatherings and others were sick. The flu bug has hit particularly hard this year. I must say, though, it was nice to all be able to fit around the table, although some people will be eating left-overs for a while!

New Years' Eve was spent with friends and family at church, playing games until we welcomed the new year. With so many young families, the closer we got to 2008 the smaller the group became as one-by-one couples bundled up their little sleepy-heads and went home. Had a lot of fun learning some new games - so beware if you come by in the next little while, I'll be pulling out the cards!

Other than that, we've managed to stay fairly healthy considering how many others have been sick over the holidays. Hubby had a bug for a couple of days but he's back to his normal self. I, on the other hand, had to be different - no flu for me...just a nasty sinus headache for over a month now, which seems to be getting more intense instead of better (I am not one to get headaches). Today is sunny and bright and should make me happy, but I'm cowering inside...staying away from the windows.

I'll try to post some pictures soon - haven't had time to download them - OH YES...I got my camera back...except, there was a problem with my S1 so they sent me an S3 to replace it. I'm happy!

Wishing you all many blessings in 2008!!

And....Yet Again...

Happy Birthday to a wonderful son
now also..
a proud daddy

Stop by SD and wish him a Happy 26!!

Birthday time again!!

Our early Christmas present 21 years ago is so much more
than just part of the family feet!

She's a daughter, big sister, little sister, sister-in-law, friend, niece, auntie, wife,
daughter-in-law, mother, and granddaughter!
Oh yea, I missed....Math whiz!

Happy Birthday "Smiley"

We Love You Heather ~ ~ Hope you enjoy your day!!

and baby makes three...

Well it was hard waiting to post this but I needed to let her daddy have first rights here :)

Alas, we welcome the latest little family member....

Jillian Mae

made her way into the world yesterday, Dec 18th, in the wee morning hours, weighing 6 lbs 13 oz. She's just perfect with all her little fingers and toes and, lots of dark hair! She now shares a birthday with her great Uncle Glen.

I don't have a picture to post since my camera is still on it's way back to me...but you can check out this little miracle here.

We thank God for answered prayer!!

those heartstrings...

The other day the little man was over for the evening as his mommy & daddy were out with the Youth. It's always a time we look forward to. He and I have this little game we've been playing for a while... I sit next to him on the LR rug, he tackles me and then I grab him on my way down and we roll (like play-wrestling) with him in my arms. He loves it and screams in delight. Well, about a month ago he motioned to me that he was about to start "our game" when I had to stop him and explain that Nana wouldn't be able to play this time because she had a very sore back. He seemed concerned and content to play other things that night.

Anyway, back to our last visit. We were in the LR reading together when all of a sudden he got up, stood facing me with his hands on my shoulders and said, "How's your back Nana?" Oh my goodness...I melted!! The little rascal was checking to see how I was before 'tackling' me to the floor. Of course he got my praises....then I grabbed him and started rolling. What a sweet, sensitive little man - but then he's got a great example to follow - his daddy.
We played an extra long game that night, til Nana was plum tuckered out!

A few more days...

I have this uncomfortable feeling in the pit of my stomach - has to do with the days going by too quickly and this sense that I won't be ready for Christmas.
What does being ready mean anyway? I'm sure for most it means making a list, braving the crowds rushing around spending what most of us don't have, and preparing more food than any of us should feel good about eating. Hmmm, wait a minute! I do love many things about the Christmas season - baking, decorating, the lights and happy faces....but more than that I want Christmas to be a special time together with my family and friends, laughing and making new memories. Each year I have these great intentions for making the holiday time 'more' special, but when all is said and done, I often feel like I just manage to 'get it done'...never mind all the extras. Actually, I really am ok with just being together and keeping things simple!!
Of course the one thing at the forefront of my thoughts these days is the anticipated arrival of W&L's little muffin. I think my mind is preoccupied to the point of sabotaging my own productivity. I can't seem to focus on the shopping & baking - simply 'waiting' for this little package to make it's way into our world. Nothing can compare to the wonder of a new baby, and I'm/we're so thankful for how God has protected this baby and how well he/she is doing.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is somehow in the midst of my busyness I want to take time to reflect on what really matters most...valuing people and remembering God's love for us. It really is OK if the baking doesn't get done. I'm rambling on now, but hopefully this post has got you thinking about the things you're thankful for.
I can't help but wonder how Mary felt as she anticipated the birth of her child. Did she realize all her son would mean to us? One of my favorite songs during the Christmas season is "Mary Did You Know?" I remember so vividly when Stacey sang this with the Jazz Choir - I literally had goosebumps...

Mary did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water?

Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters.
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new,
this child that you delivered will soon deliver you.
Mary did you know that your baby boy, will give sight to a blind man.
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm the storm with his hand.
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angles trod?
When you kiss your little baby, you've kissed the face of God!
Oh, Mary did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak the praises of the lamb.
Mary did you know that your baby boy is lord of all creation.
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations.
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven’s perfect lamb?
This sleeping child you’re holding is the great I AM”

One thing I do know is that I'm so thankful for that Child, who came to bring a gift the world so desperately needed. I hope I'll be still long enough to truly appreciate what that means. He should be the only reason we celebrate. He's what we need to be ready for. Thank goodness Jesus wasn't too busy to do the job He set out to do!!

Now, I can't wait for the get-togethers. Are you ready?

Birthday wishes...

Happy Birthday to a very special someone who makes another
very special someone
VERY happy!!
Liane, we love you and wish God's blessings & JOY overflowing
May your day be filled with beautiful smiles and good memories!

Head on over to the Thiessen's blog and wish Liane a Happy Birthday... You can leave some wishes here too if you like ... we'll make sure she gets them :)

Brrrr

Oh my goodness it's cold outside. Looks like this will be a great day for some baking. The mercury plummeted from -6 celcius yesterday to -21 today. Time to get out the long johns I say!! I really don't handle the cold weather too well, just want to stay inside and curl up with a cozy blanket and a cup of tea. Hmmm, speaking of tea, I need to go make some...

Alright, now that I'm set I have a bone to pick.

I mentioned it was only -6 outside yesterday, but the humidity was high and the cold still chilled through to the bones. I had to go to the store to buy some envelopes and what I saw there just broke my heart. A few people ahead of me at the checkout was a mother packing up her purchases getting ready to head outdoors. Her little boy, no more than a year old, was sitting in the cart playing with his mommy's hat, pulling it on and off of his head. I smiled as I watched him - he was simply adorable. Anyway, I watched and waited for her to put on her baby's parka and mitties - but she didn't!! No mitties, no parka, just a fleece (like a hoodie, but no hood) and a loose hat, which was NOT his mommies, that would have blown away in the wind. Did I mention it was windy? I wanted to run after her and ask her if she didn't have anything warm for her baby, but I didn't. My smiles quickly faded and I felt sick as I watched her go out into the cold with the little one holding on to the cold metal cart. I mean, she had plenty in her cart and they weren't groceries, couldn't she afford a pair of mitties? Even the cheap $1.99 version would have been better than nothing at all. I don't know, maybe she had a parka and mitts in her car - I hope so. What if she had vehicle trouble and had to walk with that little one? What are people thinking - - or don't they!!

Now, my son rides his bike to school year round - unless it's very cold outside. But, he's old enough to understand what cold is and does, and to decide for himself if he wants to be cold or not. In fact, after I dropped him off at school this morning (he couldn't find his warmer gloves), I watched one of his classmates walking to school with a short blazer-type jacket, nothing on her head and no gloves. She must have been so cold. I knew there was means for her to have these items if she wanted them - she was making her own statement. The little boy in the cart, however, depended on his mommy to keep him warm and safe.

If you've got little ones, please make sure they're protected from the cold. Better still, if you don't have to go out with them when it's bitter outside, don't! I know there are families out there who can't afford to dress their children warmly, and I pray that those around them who notice will do what they can to help and not just watch.

One down....

So, we finally managed to do the big birthday party yesterday for Dad and Stacey. Stacey decided she wanted pizza so pizza it was - great choice since we didn't have a table to sit around. It's in for repairs just like my poor old camera (silly story), only hope I don't have to wait as long to get it back. Anyway, back to supper. Heather came over early to give me a hand while Selah slept. She managed to get a lot of the little prep things done while I played with the dessert recipes. Then I started mixing the pizza dough and discovered I only had 1 Tbsp of yeast left - ok that just doesn't cut it when you're making four pizzas. Thankfully my very own personal delivery man was just a phone call away and soon we had yeast!! Obviously the pizza was on a little later than usual - not too serious except the house smelled so good by this point I found myself warding off the taste-testers from the toppings! LOL. Liane and Heather were pretty quick on the assembly line (they're experienced) and soon all the growly tummies were satisfied - wish I had a picture!!
The house was pretty full as others arrived shortly after supper to enjoy some birthday cake. Actually I made a Toblerone cheesecake and fruit trifle, which turned out pretty good despite my feeling a little flustered. I was asked to post the recipe for the cheesecake so you'll find that in the sidebar as well.
I hesitate to post recipes yet since my camera is still in the repair shop and I wanted to have my own pictures to go with the recipes. I am such a visual person. Don't explain something to me, show me a picture...hehe... especially when it comes to dessert!
Alrighty - it's Saturday and much to do. I think the little man is coming over for a haircut so I'll go get ready for him. Have a great weekend!! I'll post an old pizza-feast picture for you to enjoy.

Birthday time again!!

I know it's been a while. I've had so much on my mind lately that I haven't been able to even think about blogging! I've also been wrestling with some health issues that have been a bit draining (ok, more than a bit), but I'll maybe get into that in a later post.

This time of year sets off a whole 'wack' of birthdays in the Thiessen family. Just celebrated mine, won't say which one, but it's always the point where I know that four of my kids' birthdays will follow shortly (3 actual plus our daughter-in-law). Anyone who knows our family well knows we used to jokingly tell our kids they could not marry someone who had a birthday in December. This indoctrination began quite early (just kidding). One of the first questions we could hardly wait to ask our kids when they started dating was when their "friend's" birthday was. Too funny. Anyway, our son did marry a December-birthday girl and that's more than ok with us since she's a gem, and...it gives us another occasion to get together, which I love more than anything. Did I happen to mention they're also going to have a little one in December - can't wait!
So, today is Stacey's birthday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY STACEY! As part of my gift to our kids I cook them their favorite meal, which can get interesting, although some are very predictable by now. I'm waiting to hear what Stacey will choose. She and Keith have been away visiting his family so I haven't been able to ask her yet.
It's also another special person's birthday - 24 years ago Stacey arrived earlier than expected -but just on time to help us celebrate Dad T's birthday - so Happy 79th Dad!!!



Here they are, Stacey with her grandpa, almost 23 years ago

Dad's still whistling tunes






So...I just counted the family birthdays for November and December - 22! plus the little muffin! Hope I didn't forget anyone this time :)