Author Tricia Goyer has run a "Tis The Season" series over at Generation NeXt Parenting blog. If you need a little help preparing your bundles of joy for the holiday season...head over there and read her articles.
Today I thought I'd share with you a craft that I saw at a craft sale and then came home and made one. Shhhh don't tell anyone. They are so easy to make and would make wonderful party gifts, door prizes or hostess' thank you gift, teacher's gifts , you name it. I made this one in less than 30 minutes.
Here's a picture of the finished product hanging on my oven door.
Items you'll need:
kitchen towel and matching hot pad set
button to match
sewing machine
thread to match towel and hot pad
Step # 1
Gather the towel down the center so that it is same width as hot pad
This is the back side of the towel. so you can see the gathers
Step # 2
Make sure both printed sides are facing up. Center the hot pad on top of the towel. Sew across the center of hot pad attaching to the towel.
Step # 3
Fold the hot pad and sew the button on opposite side as the loop of the hot pad
Your towel is now completed and ready for hanging on oven handle.
This is so easy and quick. You probably could even make it without a sewing machine.
Friday, November 28, 2008 - Win a copy of Wanda's book
Note this contest will stay posted at the top of this page until Nov. 28th. You'll need to scroll down to see new posts. Thanks. Abi
OK all I'm doing a give away. I hosted Wanda Brunstetter's Christmas Pie book tour this week on my blog. Then I did an interview with Wanda. Now I'm going to give a book away.
Yep, you got it. But I'm going to make you work a little for your book. Can't make it all peaches 'n cream. What I'm wanting from you is three simple answers. Just leave me a comment with these three answers and I'll put your name in the drawing.
The questions are:
1.) What is Wanda's favorite pie?
2.) What is your favorite pie?
3.) What do you think might be an ingredient in White Christmas Pie? This one may make you think but hey why not take a guess. No, one said you had to be right. (If you really want to know you could buy the book and you'll have the recipe. It's in the back of the book. I love that about Wanda; she gives a recipe at the end of her book. Generally, it is one talked about in the book.) By the way, Sugar flour your basics don't count. Think white .......No it isn't snow either.
Anyway. Leave me a comment with these three answers and I'll put your name in the drawing. Be sure to leave a way for me to contact you if you are the winner. I'll draw a winner on Black Friday. Yep, you have about 10 days to enter. Drawing will be Friday, Nov. 28th. Ready set. Leave a Comment.
US Residents only please.
Heart of Matter will be posting neat ideas to Celebrate Christmas throughout Dec. Actually, beginning today.
We are looking forward to bringing you a fantastic array of crafts, projects, and activities everyday from now until Christmas Eve. Our hope is that you may use some of these to strengthen family ties, not only with your children, but between your children and Jesus.
(Don't Miss this Rare Conjunction)
Abi, I wanted to update you regarding a rare and beautiful conjunction of Venus and Jupiter that is taking place right now and will come to its climactic view on the evening of December 1st.
If you head out tonight when it begins to get dark (just after 5:00 pm), you will notice two very bright stars in the southwestern sky. The brighter star on the bottom is the planet Venus, and the dimmer star above is Jupiter. Every night you head out, you will notice that these two planets get closer and closer to each other.
Then, on November 30th, they will be very close to each other (appearing as though Jupiter is hovering above Venus) and the young crescent Moon will be getting closer to them.
Finally, on December 1st, the Moon will be just above the conjunction of these two stars (image below). This is a fairly rare event and one that will be sure to generate some excitement for anybody who takes the time to look!
My suggestion is to take out a pair of Binoculars (not a telescope) and observe this conjunction through them. Then, pass the binoculars around to all of your friends.
Please be sure to let us know what you thought of the conjunction. And, if you get a good picture of it, please forward it to us, and we will post it online.
Ok, Now I'm confused. We're suppose to be thankful for all things? Even a Thanksgiving thief? Yes, I'm thankful for my Thanksgiving thief, because I know who the thief really is. Actually, it is a tradition and expected. Though I won't tell him that. I made the Deviled Eggs for lunch this morning and put them in the refridg, then went to may shower. Guess what was missing when I got finished my shower? Yep, some Deviled Eggs. Only one up at the moment is hubby so what does that lead you to believe? Yep, me too. But he does it every year and so it is somewhat expected now.
I seem to be in the dog house about now so I'm forgiving him. Why am I in the dog house? Well, I didn't make a Pecan pie for today. I had pumpkins and apples that needed tended to so I just made those two and didn't get pecans to make a pie. OH, boy am I in trouble. So I had to promise him one for Christmas. For Thanksgiving and Christmas I generally make Pecan pie and Deviled Eggs. So I messed up this year. I just figured two pumpkin pies and one apple was enough for us to consume at this time. Guess I was wrong.
Ok, Ok, I know I need to get off here and get busy. Last one for today. Have Fun!
You Are an Indian
It's likely that you spent a lot of time outdoors as a kid.
You feel comfortable and at peace in nature. You identify with Native Americans.
You are a truly helpful and giving person. You like to lend a hand.
And while you do your best to do the right thing, people haven't always been kind back to you.
Did you miss the 12 Days of Holiday Homemaking? We will have a wonderful e-book available the first week in December containing all the wonderful downloads!
Hey all! Just wanted you to see what Joycelyn over at A Pondering Heart is giving away. Tell her Abi Buening Sent you. You better hurry the drawing is the 24th.
Look at this beautiful centerpiece I found on-line. It even has edible pieces (candy is what I call it; chocolate to be exact.) However, I just wanted to share the link with you and let you all know that there are step-by-step directions with pictures so you can make one for your own Thanksgiving table. Head over to Incredible Edible Crafts and you'll see how fun and easy it is to make.
It's been a while since I've posted a recipe so thought I'd share this one with you all. Just a different twist on your traditional Green Bean Casserole. My family loves this one and it is the one they request each year. Thought I'd better hurry and post it since Thanksgiving is next week. YIKES!
Broccoli, Cheddar, Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients: 2 packages Lipton Broccoli/Cheddar Rice Mix 1 - 16 oz. can green beans (may use frozen but you'll have to cook them prior to using in recipe) 1 - 10 oz. can cream of mushroom soup 3 slices bread, cubed 1/2 t. celery salt, optional 2-3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 1 large can of french fried onions
Directions: * Cook Rice mix as directed on package. * Mix soup, green beans & bread, 1 cup cheese and 1/2 can of onions, add to cooked rice. *Bake 350° - 20 to 30 min. heating through OR about 8 min. in microwave. * Add remaining cheese and top with remaining onions return to oven til cheese is melted Or microwave about 3 min.
I like this recipe because you can make it in the microwave freeing up your oven since the during the holidays everything needs to go in the oven. Hope you enjoy it.
Today I'm hosting an author interview with Wanda Brunstetter.
Yesterday we did the book tour for her newly released book:
White Christmas Pie
I asked Wanda if she'd answer 10 quick questions and she graciously obliged. Thank you Wanda for your time. My friend got me hooked on Wanda several years back. I love your books. Let's not waste any time. When did you first know you were a writer?
When I was in the second grade and wrote a poem about a moth. My teacher said it was good and that I had real potential.
From what I can tell she was right on the button. Good teacher to encourage you in this direction. Do you write only Amish setting books?
I write mostly Amish themed books, but have also done a few historical novels.
I have read most of your books. I try to keep up. Sometimes it's hard. I have read two of your historical novels they are equally as good. Still have some in my 2br pile too. I just can't stay ahead of the game. Why did you choose Amish setting?
I'm good friends with many Amish people and I wanted to show my readers what these wonderful people are truly like.
Now for a few fun questions. Since you wrote about a pie let me just ask what is your favorite pie?
Lemon Shoofly pie, found in my first Amish Cookbook, which is available at most bookstores.
I love the way you add a recipe to the books you write. That is so neat. I think cookbooks are my downfall or maybe it's just food in general. I don't have your cookbook but I eye it wherever I see it. Maybe Santa will get the hint, hint, hint....In your spare time, if you have that as an author, what is your favorite thing to do? (not counting reading)
I love to walk on the beach with my husband, Richard, looking for agates and shells.
You know there is something about walking on beaches that is so romantic or fireplaces. I'm not close to either one. What books do you like to read?
I like to read historical novels.
The historical are good. Mysteries are fun too. I know your Sisters of Holmes County series had kind of a mystery take on it with all the mishapps that happened to the Hostettler family. I have the third book in that series in my 2br pile. It needs to come to the top so I can find out who is pulling all the parnks on the Hostettler family. Like I mentioned earlier. I'm a little behind in my reading. Just too many good books out there. I've kind of given this time right now to Christmas books. I love the holiday season. Do you have anything in the works coming out in the future? What a question to ask an author. I'm sure you have something going all the time.
I'm presently working on another Amish cookbook, which will be out in July 2009. I also just finished Book 1 in my new Indiana Cousins series. Book 1, A Cousin's Promise, will be out in March 2009, and so will my new Amish-themed children's pictue/storybook, The Wisdom of Solomon. I also have two children's books coming out in December 2008.
Now I know I'm behind. I was reading about your new Indiana Cousins series coming out. I'm from South Bend, IN area so I'm real interested in that series. Yesterday I received a post card in the mail about your new books in the Rachel Yoder series too. My daughter and I have read the first two books. We have gotten our library to stock the books. We're waiting for them to get the 3rd & 4th books out. Sometimes they aren't as fast as we'd like. Now we'll have to request 5 & 6. They love us at the library and get many of the books we request. I try not to push the limits too much. I'm picky about what I ask them to get. Ok I could go on forever so better ask the next question. About how long does it take you to get a book completed. from your head (thoughts) to publisher: (Not including publish time). How long then from publish to store shelves?
Most of my full-length novels take me about 6 months, from beginning to end. Time from the publisher to store shelves is 6-9 months.
Wow, so that's a good year in advance. You have to be one step ahead. Is there a special scripture verse you'd like to give us?
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine, but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Ah, now that comes from your book A Merry Heart in the Bride of Lancaster County series. That was the first book I read of yours. I was hooked. I love the fact that you use the KJV verses in your books. That's my preferred version. Most use other versions and then I have to look the verse up to see what it really says. What thoughts would you like to leave with the readers of this interview?
Even though the Amish may dress differently than we "Englishers", drive a horse and buggy, and live more simply than we do, inside we are all the same.
Their simple way of life is so intriguing. You have a way of making me fell as though I'm living right there watching the story unfold as I read. I always think could I live that way? I think I'd miss the computer the most. It might be fun to ride a horse and buggy, but oh, so cold in our ND winters though. Thank you again Wanda for your time. There you have it everyone. I know you won't be disappointed with Wanda's books, Amish or otherwise. You can find Wanda at the following web sites. I'll have to check out her new solomom lapp site. The other two I visit from time to time to stay up on her.
I haven't shared one of these in a while so thought I'd do so today.
Outside my Window...Soft snowflakes are floating to the ground. Very, soft and gentle. It looks as though I'm looking out at a snowglobe.
I am thinking...that I need to get moving off this computer. I tried to post this twice and lost is at the blink of an eye. So this it try #3 what do they say about the third times a charm. I may quit if I don't get it this time.
I am thankful for...my snuggle blanket
From the kitchen...Breakfast is over and all is quiet right now.
I am creating...a list for ordering dd graduation announcements.
I am going...to hop on the exerciser as soon as I get off here.
I am wearing...my gray sweats ready for exercising.
I am reading...several books. The Christmas Edition by Robin Shope
For more books I'm reading check out my Books I'm presently reading bookshelf (scroll down on left hand side) @ 4 LOVE of BOOKS
I am hoping...to get my suitcases all unpacked and put away from our trip last week.
I am hearing...my daughter playing the piano.
Around the house..things are starting to come alive for the day.
From the learning rooms... The piano is playing, the pencil sharpener is grinding, and books and papers are being shuffled around.
One of my favorite things...my snuggle wrap
A few plans this week...to get more done on the quilt. laundry caught up if there is such a thing. Seems to me when you get back from vacation it is piled high. Need to get my book blog up-dated too.
Here is a picture I am sharing with you..
I don't have one today sorry.
Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband's family in Pennsylvania, WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the states.
Step into Amish country for this bittersweet holiday romance. Here you'll meet Will Henderson, a young man tortured by his past, and Karen Yoder, a young woman looking for answers. Add a desperate father searching for his son, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class romance that will inspire and enthrall.
Abandoned by his father, Will Henderson was raised by an Amish couple. Now he's about to marry Karen Yoder but is having second thoughts. Can Will overcome the bitterness of his past in order to secure his future? Karen cannot break through the barrier her fiance has suddenly constructed around his heart. When she seeks the advice of an old boyfriend, Will begins to see green. Has he already lost his chance for happiness?
When an accident threatens Will's life, the strength of blood ties is tested. Will a recipe for White Christmas pie contain the ingredients for a happily-ever-after?
I'm back. Our family took a look-n-see trip to a college in WI for my senior daughter to get the feel of and see if it is the one she wants to attend. Lots-of decisions needing to be made here. Wow! My head is swimming. She opted to take Business Math instead of Algebra 2 last year for her third High School math. Well, guess what?! They highly recommended that she take the A2 so guess what I have to do today. Yep, you guessed it. I have to get on the phone and see if we can get us an A2 course heading to our house. We were very impressed with the college, but boy the price. YIKES! Well I have so much catch up to do today. We crash landed last night about 8pm so my house is topsey-turvey this morning. Need to run and get few basic groceries too. However, I'm going to post a really neat item that came through my e-mail just so you can take advantage of it as it is only good for one day. It is way cool. So as soon as I post this I'll get that one started and up. I really must get off here today. I'll post more later but just wanted to let you all why I've been quiet this week; that is where I've been all week. I have some pictures of projects we're working on just have to get them posted sssssooooo much to do just not enough hours in the day.
J. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published three novels.
One Holy Night, a contemporary miracle story for all seasons, released in April 2008. Daughter of Liberty (2004) and Native Son (2005), books 1 and 2 of the American Patriot Series are set during the American Revolution. Book 3, Wind of the Spirit, is scheduled for release in March 2009. Hochstetler is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, and Historical Novels Society.
ABOUT THE BOOK
In 1967 the military build-up in Viet Nam is undergoing a dramatic surge. The resulting explosion of anti-war sentiment tears the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. In the quiet bedroom community of Shepherdsville, Minnesota, the war comes home to Frank and Maggie McRae, whose only son, Mike, is serving as a grunt in Viet Nam.
Frank despises all Asians because of what he witnessed as a young soldier fighting the Japanese in the south Pacific during WWII. The news that his son has fallen in love with and married Thi Nhuong, a young Vietnamese woman, shocks him. To Frank all Asians are enemies of his country, his family, and himself. A Buddhist, Thi Nhuong represents everything he despises. So he cuts Mike out of his life despite the pleas of his wife, Maggie; daughter, Julie; and Julie s husband, Dan, the pastor of a growing congregation.
Maggie is fighting her own battle--against cancer. Convinced that God is going to heal her, Frank plays the part of a model Christian. Her death on Thanksgiving Day devastates him. Worse, as they arrive home from the gravesite, the family receives news of Mike s death in battle. Embittered, Frank stops attending church and cuts off family and friends.
By the time a very pregnant Thi Nhuong arrives on his doorstep on a stormy Christmas Eve, Frank is so filled with hate that he slams the door in her face, shutting her out in the bitter cold. Finally, overcome by guilt, he tries to go after her, but driving wind and snow force him back inside. With the storm rising to blizzard strength, he confronts the wrenching truth that what hate has driven him to do is as evil as what the Japanese did all those years earlier, and that he needs forgiveness as desperately as they did ...
Frank doesn't know that what God has in mind this night is a miracle. As on that holy night so many years ago, a baby will be born and laid in a manger--a baby who will bring forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing to a family that has suffered heart-wrenching loss.
We all must have a lighter side to us and I'm hoping that in my blogs to share crafts, game ideas, recipes, funny happenings etc. I have another blog with my quiet spiritaul thoughts as well.
.......No it isn't snow either. 
We're suppose to be thankful for all things? Even a Thanksgiving thief? Yes, I'm thankful for my Thanksgiving thief, because I know who the thief really is. Actually, it is a tradition and expected. 
Though I won't tell him that. I made the Deviled Eggs for lunch this morning and put them in the refridg, then went to may shower. Guess what was missing when I got finished my shower? Yep, some Deviled Eggs. Only one up at the moment is hubby so what does that lead you to believe? Yep, me too. But he does it every year and so it is somewhat expected now. 
Blessed Thanksgiving to you all.
