tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265017149765954092024-02-20T22:57:41.053-08:00Another Waters"So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-34919251224738287972016-08-30T12:55:00.000-07:002016-08-30T12:55:00.906-07:00Write in PencilSo here was the plan, or, as I saw it, the way things were going to go<br />
<br />
1. Adopt a kid from Bulgaria<br />
2. Take a few years off work to care for her<br />
3. Have a biological child somewhere in that time<br />
4. Return to work (or not)<br />
<br />
Here's how things went down (so far)<br />
<br />
1. Complete all the adoption paperwork<br />
2. Wait<br />
3. Wait some more<br />
4. Surprise! You're pregnant<br />
<br />
We had a five-year plan and a ten-year plan, all written in pen...or stone as I saw it.<br />
None of those plans included a rental house in this tiny town or a little girl named Naomi.<br />
<br />
Thank you Lord for disrupting my plans!<br />
<br />
I have no idea what is next, and I am learning that I never really did anyways. I am learning to be okay with the unknown and even excited to see just where the Lord is going to take us.<br />
<br />
<i>Title taken from a revealing chapter in Cold Tangerines by Shauna Niequist</i><br />
<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-47193993800825975102015-06-30T06:43:00.004-07:002015-06-30T06:43:56.349-07:003 Things I'm Loving This WeekWe are half-way through summer--closer to school starting back than ever. It's always a strange time--looking forward to school starting back but trying not to be consumed with plans for the fall, struggling to enjoy summer while the upcoming demands begin to loom larger. <div>
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This week I'm pinning lots of ideas for my classroom. </div>
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My list of things that I'm loving this week will give you an idea of what I've been up to lately (aka not much!)</div>
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1. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mrs-meyer-s-liquid-hand-soap-honeysuckle-12-5-oz/-/A-13644806#prodSlot=_1_6">Ms. Myers Hand Soap--Honeysuckle</a></div>
<div>
This stuff smells SO good. I want to wash my hands all the time. I keep this in my kitchen and it motivates me to wash my hands after cracking eggs and handling chicken. Previously I would have just used the dawn.</div>
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2. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/larabar-fruit-and-nut-bar-chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-5-bars/-/A-13354848#prodSlot=medium_1_9&term=larabars">Chocolate Chip Cookie LaraBars</a></div>
<div>
OMG! After Whole30 I didn't think I would want a LaraBar again. I keep them around for emergency snacks but they definitely lost their luster...UNTIL I discovered this flavor. Sunday night we had a girls group and everyone brought dessert. I had this and it was just as satisfying without all the refined sugar!</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.tervis.com/search-results?q=periodic%20table">Periodic Table Tervis</a></div>
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I saw this Tervis while we were in Pigeon Forge. Adam agreed that I needed it so I ordered it as soon as I got home. The wonderful thing about ordering stuff MADE IN AMERICA is that, unlike my vacuum cleaner part that is still on the slow-boat from China, it arrives very quickly. I have been enjoying my Tervis for the past week--staying super hydrated. I especially love the straw lid.</div>
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I'd love to hear what you're loving this week!</div>
Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-9395781360038470072015-06-22T12:01:00.000-07:002015-06-22T12:01:58.692-07:003 Things I'm Loving this Week1. <a href="http://serialpodcast.org/">Serial--the podcast</a><br />
The podcast covers the story of a man who has served 15 years of his life sentence. Many, including the reporter, have begun to question his conviction. Each episode allows you to discover something new about the case along with her. We listened to all twelve episodes while on the road this weekend. Spoiler alert--the ending leaves a bit to be desired. I'm excited to begin listening to <a href="http://undisclosed-podcast.com/">Undisclosed--the podcast</a>, which follows the story as it continues to unfold.<br />
<br />
2. Time with friends--whether a spontaneous trip to Sprouts with a friend or a girls weekend away, summer is the perfect time to spend time quality time with friends without all the stress of school and other plans getting in the way.<br />
<br />
3. <a href="http://www.foodfaithfitness.com/crockpot-paleo-cookies-chocolate-chip/">Crock-pot chocolate chip cookie bars</a>--these are amazing! There is something about preparing something a few hours ahead of time that I love. I prefer to get most of my food prep done an hour or so before dinner and then all I have to do is put it in the oven, on the stove, etc. This recipe provides a way for me to make dessert ahead of time. It is also perfect because it keeps the cookies nice and warm should you need to transport them to a friends house for dinner. Food, Faith and Fitness did a great job on this one! <br />
<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-39145461532616563132015-06-13T15:30:00.002-07:002015-06-13T15:30:54.576-07:003 Things That I'm Lovin' This Week1. <a href="http://jamieivey.com/category/podcast-2/">Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey</a><br />
<div>
This girl is my new friend! I've laughed so much with her over the past two weeks as I've breezed through all the episodes in the archives while painting, cleaning, working out...These are great for those tasks you'd love to do with a friend but just don't have one handy at the moment!<br />
<br />
At the end of every show she asks her guests "What are three things that you're loving right now??"...thus prompting this post :-)<br />
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2. Plantain Chips<br />
Prior to paleo, I was a nacho expert. I judged restaurants, even non-Mexican ones, on their nachos. Jim N' Nicks for example...fantastic! However, I've been left wanting in the salty, crunchy department as of late, until I discovered these babies. Last night I had them alongside cashew cheese sauce and today paired them with salsa and guacamole. While hard to find around Birmingham, Sprouts has them in the bulk section from time to time and Walmart usually has some near the produce with their nuts and granola bars.<br />
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3. The library<br />
At the beginning of the summer I tried to check out a book only to find that my library card had expired and had not been active since 2013--thus proving that the stress level in my life must have gotten out of hand sometime between then and now because WHY would anyone wait that long to go to the library? Now that I'm back in the saddle, I'm in the library at least once a week. The great thing about the Jefferson County Library is that you can go online and request any book in their arsenal, and they will deliver it to your local library within a few days. Many of their titles are also available for digital download. So far I've read<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The Tipping Point</li>
<li>The Good Girl</li>
</ul>
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Currently working on The Best Yes and The Glass Castle.</div>
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Have a great week! I'd love to hear what you're loving this week! </div>
</div>
Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-76258960329518904602015-02-01T12:35:00.001-08:002015-02-01T12:35:18.908-08:00Messy ClosetsYou know that room in your house, the one that you close the door to when visitors come over? Maybe yours in not a whole room, but just a closet or if you've really got it together just a drawer. It's the place where you throw things that have no home, the place you prefer not to go looking for stuff, and the place that you'd need an expert to organize...so you just ignore and continue to throw stuff in, shut the door and act like it doesn't exist?<br />
<br />
Well, over the past few weeks I have discovered something similar in my classroom.<br />
<br />
Shortly after Christmas break I attended an LDC workshop (I don't know what the letters stand for...only that talking in code seems to make everyone feel more important so we say everything in acronyms). At the workshop we were <strike>forced</strike> encouraged to create a learning module in which our students would read various content-related texts and use their learning to produce a written product. Throughout the module students will be writing smaller pieces to practice their writing skills.<br />
<br />
Sounds good right?<br />
<br />
I must admit that we never did much writing in my classroom prior to this adventure, other than the typical short answer question which was mainly math-related. So, I began asking my students to write more, to do things like<br />
<ul>
<li>Justify your response.</li>
<li>Provide evidence to support your claim.</li>
<li>Analyze the validity of a given claim.</li>
<li>Rewrite a given claim, correcting errors in grammar and/or reasoning.</li>
</ul>
What I have discovered has been a bit intimidating. Things I thought the students understood...they really don't, and even worse...I have no clue how to fix it. I could have the students read more, write more, experiment more, but we may be on the same chapter until Spring Break waiting on them all to understand.<br />
<br />
Like that closet that you don't know how to organize, I have no clue how to get inside these kids brains and set the record straight. Worse yet, there isn't just one closet to organize, there are 30 at a time and many more than that in a day.<br />
<br />
Part of me wants them to stop writing, stop reminding me that you really don't understand. Let's go back to doing chemistry math-style...where you just plug some numbers into a formula and we do practice problems until you memorize how to do the problem so you can do it on the test, and I promise I won't ask you to explain what your answer means. I'll just keep pretending that you get it. Deal?<br />
<br />
Does this make me a horrible teacher?<br />
<br />
This morning as I listened to a debate on common core, I wondered if part of the problem is that so many teachers and parents are feeling this tension. (Side note: I am aware that there is a lot more to common core and the issues are deeper than I am discussing here). Because when we ask students to explain why 3 x 5= 15 and they can't, we don't know how to help them. Wouldn't it be easier if we just went back to memorizing multiplication tables? <br />
<br />
Because if we don't know that they don't understand, we won't lay away at night thinking of ways to explain it better, and we can make it through more than a few pages of leisure reading without being haunted by the discrepancies.<br />
<br />
I am still not sure how I will respond to these feelings. On Monday, will I choose the rough but honest road? Will I open those closet doors, invite students to help me begin rearranging--throwing out misconceptions and organizing misplaced facts--and celebrate each improvement they make, no matter how small? Perhaps I will take the slightly smoother road? I am tempted to slam shut the messy closets and go play in a different room, where we can lounge on algorithms and prop up our feet on our pretty numerical answers! <br />
Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-41144597478497434462014-10-08T18:59:00.001-07:002014-10-08T18:59:48.281-07:00Whole30This summer I spent many days and even 20 consecutive hrs in the doctor's office attempting to identify the source of this tiredness, only to walk away with the diagnosis of "idiopathic hypersomnia" (i.e. you're really tired and we don't know why). Note that I had received a diagnosis of idiopathic hives approximately a year ago (i.e. you have hives and we don't know why). Two idiopathic diagnoses in a row can make one feel like quite an idiot...so I began to seek coping strategies--coffee, food, dt. mt. dew, repeat...but I couldn't shake the zombie-like state.<br />
<br />
A very caring friend ask me almost weekly how I am feeling and my response is almost always "still tired." She seemed to be on a mission to find my cure--each week having a new suggestion: essential oils, vitamins, coffee, sleep, Whole30?<br />
<br />
Whole30 and the concept that "it all starts with food" grabbed my attention. I began to read the book <i>It Starts with Food</i> and connected with the stories of real people who had changed their eating habits and changed their lives. Before finishing the first chapter I had convinced Adam and Rachel and Rachel to join me. I was excited to see where this journey would lead.<br />
<br />
We are now at day 18 and I can say that while the idiopathic hives have not subsided, the idiopathic hypersomnia has dramatically decreased in intensity. I am not falling asleep at my desk or even in front of the tv. I have not felt the same feelings of tiredness while driving that would leave me frightened to be behind the wheel. I feel more in-control of my sleeping and waking and less grumpy to be awake!<br />
<br />
Here is a breakdown of our meals over the past few weeks for those of you who may be interested in giving it a try.<br />
<br />
Breakfast:<br />
I make breakfast for the week on Sundays and we reheat throughout the week or throw together some eggs, meat and avocado.<br />
<br />
Week 1: <a href="http://www.nakedavocado.com/2013/09/apple-bumpkin-breakfast-bake/">Apple Bumpkin Bake</a><br />
Week 2: <a href="http://www.thefreckledfoodie.com/tomato-bacon-and-arugula-quiche-with-sweet-potato-crust/">Tomato, Bacon and Arugula Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust</a>--replaced arugula with spinach<br />
Week 3: <a href="http://www.wholefamilystrong.com/2012/12/31/lagniappe-casserole/">Lagniappe Casserole</a><br />
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Lunch and snacks: Fresh fruit, veggies, nuts and leftovers<br />
<br />
Dinners:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.wholefamilystrong.com/2012/01/12/meatloaf-cake/">Meatloaf </a>"Cake" with sweet potatoes and veggies<br />
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Lamb Steaks, potatoes, and green beans with mushrooms<br />
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Seasoned fish, cabbage, and broccoli<br />
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Crock pot pork, asparagus and mashed cauliflower<br />
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"Nachos" with a base of home fries covered in pork, peppers and onions, salsa, etc.<br />
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<a href="http://shasonta.wordpress.com/2013/09/18/artichokechickenthighs/">Chicken thighs with artichoke hearts</a>, mashed potatoes (with almond milk)<br />
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Zuppa--delicious--get sausage from Earth Fare or Whole Foods--ask the butcher about sugar and MSG. This recipe can be found @amazonashley on instagram--totally worth the effort<br />
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<a href="http://www.multiplydelicious.com/thefood/2012/02/slow-cooker-chicken-vegetable-soup/">Slow cooker chicken and vegetable soup</a>--we chopped up fresh veggies instead of using frozen and let the chicken cook with the veggies in the crock pot<br />
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Spaghetti squash spaghetti--roasted spaghetti squash and added ground beef with an approved (no sugar added) tomato sauce and a little coconut milk<br />
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<a href="http://paleomg.com/southwest-turkey-sliders-spicy-avocado-slaw/">Turkey burgers with avacado slaw</a>, sweet potato fries and riced cauliflower<br />
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One pot curry (a favorite) --find it @whole30recipes on instagram<br />
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<a href="http://www.wholefamilystrong.com/2012/03/14/bacon-wrapped-apple-chicken/">Bacon wrapped, apple-stuffed chicken</a> with roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini and mushrooms<br />
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<a href="http://www.confessionsofanover-workedmom.com/2014/01/unstuffed-paleo-cabbage-rolls.html">Unstuffed paleo cabbage rolls</a><br />
<br />
Eating out:<br />
<br />
We have eaten out a few times on the program.<br />
Steak houses are the best choice while on Whole30 although Mexican is possible (fajitas with no shells).<br />
<br />
Resources:<br />
whole30.com<br />
Follow @whole30recipes for daily inspiration<br />
Wholefamilystrong.com<br />
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<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-57539860884927294002014-02-12T15:30:00.000-08:002014-02-12T15:30:13.068-08:00Everyday FaithfulSnow days allow for lots of thoughts...here are some of mine.<br />
<br />
"Life is usually pretty ordinary, just like following Jesus most days. Daily discipleship is not a new revolution each morning or an agent of global transformation every evening. It is a <b>long obedience in the same direction." --</b>Kevin DeYoung<br />
<b> </b><br />
A few weeks ago, Bart preached from Ephesians 5 as part of a series entitled "Worshiping and Witnessing Community" and, through the word of God, led us to consider HOW we worship...you can catch the message in its entirety here: http://www.cfcbirmingham.org/sermons#series_11<br />
<br />
One of the main points was that we worship by walking in the light, abstaining from evil and modeling what is holy to those around us.<br />
<br />
I have often struggled with the desire to have "big, SUPER-Christian" faith like that of missionaries who go to dangerous lands and theologians who write books that encourage thousands. Twice in my life I can see how these desires have let me to pursue noble things, good things, godly things, for ungodly reasons. The Lord convicted me of this once again and reminded me of the beauty of everyday faithfulness.<br />
<br />
I have begun to think of the many in my life who exemplify this faithfulness. Ordinary men and women who may have never been to a foreign land, although I'm confident they'd go...who have never written a book, but may have still encouraged thousands. <br />
<br />
I think of my dad, how each and every day he goes to work for many, many hours, and while there, takes every opportunity to encourage and spread the glory of his God.<br />
<br />
I think of my mom, who encourages me every evening after school, and not just me, but many others who love to hear her voice on the other end of the line.<br />
<br />
I think of my co-worker, who often finds herself weary after a day of giving, giving, giving to students who haven't been given enough, yet continues to come and work, knowing that these battles are not flesh and blood...but something more.<br />
<br />
I think of stay at home moms, nurses, accountants, pastors, and widows...life can be weary for them all...who continue to strive for the glory of God.<br />
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I think of myself, and how I fail daily to live faithfully. Convicted and burdened for the lost and my own sinful soul on Sunday...frustrated and defeated by Monday...4th period to be exact.<br />
<br />
So on this snow day, back to the throne I go, to beg for grace to be faithful here at home, where it is a little easier, and tomorrow or the next day at school as well. Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-60742774840065766252014-01-12T15:11:00.001-08:002014-01-12T15:11:32.197-08:00Officially WaitingWhen we were first starting this adoption process, I wanted to read the blogs of moms and dads who had been through this before and get a feel for their experiences as we embarked on our own. However, it was hard to find a blog where they shared their experiences during the wait. As we now wait, I realize that there just isn't much to tell...<br />
<br />
This week though, there is an update. We received word that after almost a year of signing, approving, notarizing and apostiling papers, we are finally REGISTERED!<br />
<br />
So...what does this mean? After approval from the state and federal government, our paperwork was sent to Bulgaria, the country from which we are trying to adopt. They looked over our papers and approved us for adoption, thereby registering us in their database. We are now one of the many families that could be selected as they place children. According to our adoption agency, the current wait from the point of registration is 1.5 to 2 years.<br />
<br />
When our contact from the agency called on Thursday she said "You are now officially WAITING."<br />
<br />
Really? I felt like we were already doing that!<br />
<br />
Wednesday was a really hard day. The students seemed especially needy after 3 days of late starts and less structure than they require. I had been trying for <strike>forever</strike> a few days to get in touch with the adoption agency to see if we had been registered yet, as we had sent in our last piece of paperwork at the beginning of December. All of this brought about the frustration of an impatient heart. As I drove home from small group that night, I received a timely text from a consistent friend that let me know she was praying for me and had attached a blog she thought I should read.<br />
<br />
http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2011/09/06/after-the-airport<br />
<br />
When I got home, I sat down at the dining room table and read the entirety of the blog, each line resulting in more ugly tears and even ugly laughter...a mixture that few people other than Jen Hatmaker can produce. Adam walked in to find me a mess. After reading the blog himself while I blew my nose and cleared my throat, we asked the questions that you don't want to say aloud: "Can we do this? Are we crazy? For our FIRST? What are we thinking?" Not so quickly, but eventually, came the calm assurance..."No YOU can't but I CAN." The One who has blessed us with every spiritual gift, the One who will never leave us nor forsake us, the One who has conquered the grave, this God can, through us, love this little girl who hasn't had enough love. He can heal her broken heart, and He can give us the strength and patience to parent her well.<br />
<br />
After all that, the words "You are officially WAITING" seemed filled with grace. We aren't ready just yet! So, as we enter the official wait, we continue to ask for your prayers, that we would trust His timing, His provision, and His purpose and be open-hearted to learning to lean on Him more and more as He prepares our hearts to lead the heart of another. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-31167495665099454092013-11-17T17:14:00.000-08:002013-11-17T17:15:17.336-08:00Entering 4th TrimesterOn February 14th, 2013, Adam and I received word from our adoption agency that we were officially approved to begin the adoption process for a little girl (or two) from Bulgaria. <br />
<br />
This past Thursday marked nine months from that day.<br />
<br />
Thursday seemed special to me, perhaps it is my overly sentimental self. Throughout the day I thought about the thrill of that February day, how excited we were to tell friends and family. It seemed to me similar to the way you would feel if you were announcing a pregnancy. However, nine months have come and gone and there is no little Waters. Some days it seems we are further away now than we were 9 months ago.<br />
<br />
Oh, but how we have grown!<br />
<br />
-In patience. It is, humanly speaking, much easier to wait for something when you know approximately how long you will have to wait. For example, I knew when we were engaged that my wedding would occur on December 18. While the waiting was difficult at times, I could always look forward to that day. This, however, is so different. They could tell you "about 1 and a half years" and 1.5 years later you could still be 1.5 years away...we just don't know. However, God DOES know.<br />
<br />
-In faith. When we pray about our adoption, we do so knowing that there is NOTHING we can do. We have to trust so many people along the way. For example, we are currently waiting on UAB to send Adam's medical records to a local doctor's office. We have no control over how quickly these people move. BUT we serve a sovereign God who has power over all of these<br />
"The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.<span class="p">" Proverbs 21:1 </span><br />
<span class="p">It has grown my heart to pray about things that I previously thought were controlled by man. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">-In selflessness. "He has taken so much out of me that I didn't need." This is what a mom of two shared with me yesterday. She and her husband have been waiting for a little girl from Haiti for over two years. With basketball, Adam in school, fundraising, and paperwork, there has been little time for ME the last nine months. As an introvert, I definitely need some time alone, but even when I'm by myself, I am learning to serve, pray and focus outside of myself. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">It would be naive of me to act as though these nine months have been rainbows and butterflies, or to pretend that the next nine will be any different, but along the way I am learning to trust.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">I am so grateful to all of you who keep asking, keep praying, keep supporting. I pray that your heart will grow as well--for orphans and ultimately for our Lord.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p"><br /></span>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-9768771922594206312013-09-22T15:54:00.000-07:002013-09-22T15:54:48.470-07:00Adoption is a slow process...When we began this journey many months ago, I had great intentions of updating this blog, and thereby updating those who were praying and supporting us. However, each time I thought to write, I found that I had nothing exciting to say. It has been almost 8 months of paperwork and waiting for approvals so that we could fill out more paperwork.<br />
<br />
However, it seems that we are nearing a milestone!<br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, after creating a paper portfolio of our life, we sent this portfolio off to Montgomery to receive the official seal from the state of Alabama.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCUN5NwqTZeHBHu9EBuG8k8yC_lGkp4cB7I0az9T11vzEMfrF21A13JAv36GWVR_iRdQtT8kXxqZflA-RJPKbIA5u8Pp0Rb7095bodM8Bvdzr3VltBHNhX8Jhpa49HsxCOMIs-CbuY-0/s1600/IMG00302-20130910-1049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCUN5NwqTZeHBHu9EBuG8k8yC_lGkp4cB7I0az9T11vzEMfrF21A13JAv36GWVR_iRdQtT8kXxqZflA-RJPKbIA5u8Pp0Rb7095bodM8Bvdzr3VltBHNhX8Jhpa49HsxCOMIs-CbuY-0/s320/IMG00302-20130910-1049.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This seal allows us to then send this documents into a foreign country...so we did :-) These documents are now in Bulgaria awaiting translation.<br />
<br />
Here is a glimpse into where we have been in the process so far and where we are going:<br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Apply for and receive approval from adoption agency</strike></li>
<li><strike>Complete courses online to educate ourselves about the adoption process as well as common struggles faced by adopted children</strike></li>
<li><strike>Complete four visits with social worker </strike></li>
<li><strike>Gather documents and recommendation letters for social work</strike></li>
<li><strike>Social worker writes home study and has it approved by adoption agency</strike></li>
<li><strike>Finger prints to receive clearance from state agency</strike></li>
<li><strike>Have all documents notarized</strike></li>
<li><strike>Have all documents sent to Montgomery for apostille (fancy seal)</strike></li>
<li><strike>Send documents to Bulgaria for translation</strike></li>
<li><strike>Biometric fingerprints for US Government clearance</strike></li>
<li><strike>Medical examination</strike></li>
<li>Send US government clearance to Bulgaria</li>
<li>Receive approval from Bulgarian government to be "registered" as adoptive parents</li>
<li>Wait...wait patiently</li>
<li>Raise money for final payment and travel expenses</li>
<li>Travel for first visit</li>
<li>Travel to pick up little girl</li>
</ul>
We have already made it so far! Thank you for your support of our fundraising efforts. Thanks to so many generous people who not only have purchased items but even made some things for us to sale. We have been able to pay approximately half of the total cost and have not had to take out any loans! The next big payment is due at the time of the referral, which for us is about 1.5 to 2 years away. Until then, we pray for our child who may already be born, we pray for other adoptive families, and we craft!<br />
<br />
We pray that God will continue to teach us patience and endurance and that you will enjoy the journey along with us! <br />
<br />
<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-23518208139476653182013-04-24T17:16:00.000-07:002013-04-24T17:16:46.530-07:00Google it!That's my motto!<br />
In class when we don't know the answer to something...that's exactly what we do. My students have learned the hard way, however, that when you google something you have to have the background to translate it.<br />
<br />
For example, no matter how many times or different ways I google "deBroglie wave equation" I will not fully understand the explanation because my calculus and physics skills are just not up to par.<br />
<br />
Perhaps that is why I can't "google" anything about this adoption stuff and find the answers that I am looking for...<br />
<br />
Some of my recent searches have included...<br />
"Establishing sleeping patterns with adopted child..."<br />
"Food for recently adopted children..."<br />
"Language transitions for adopted children..."<br />
<br />
One that got me in trouble..."homestudy requirements"<br />
<br />
Thanks to google I <strike>went nuts </strike>got prepared for the home study by<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYZ_1MLqJysWkpykyxWsYVgq4k9hmW2DTmyo-Sp60r-2LCvPLKclzmZ00QiMLNQZ8L80C8aWD4MzWldixGhxFFpRW6hPLTQQ4EgOuhYNmZGZSeN2xtJEe5fQjwm2lOj-8Zusan0MmM8g/s1600/IMG_1188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYZ_1MLqJysWkpykyxWsYVgq4k9hmW2DTmyo-Sp60r-2LCvPLKclzmZ00QiMLNQZ8L80C8aWD4MzWldixGhxFFpRW6hPLTQQ4EgOuhYNmZGZSeN2xtJEe5fQjwm2lOj-8Zusan0MmM8g/s200/IMG_1188.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3V8AX2HpeS0hZiYAwuG9YSCjmtHaEDHnc85aoq8RUKZQNHF40sWlKMbKQE2BvSgbL1njPdNLKPXcirIGD8_LdIj2buR6xJItzqd2JC8-ViLp3puuwEszTIk9oB2yTYIOSi3YcXTlv_zA/s1600/IMG_1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3V8AX2HpeS0hZiYAwuG9YSCjmtHaEDHnc85aoq8RUKZQNHF40sWlKMbKQE2BvSgbL1njPdNLKPXcirIGD8_LdIj2buR6xJItzqd2JC8-ViLp3puuwEszTIk9oB2yTYIOSi3YcXTlv_zA/s320/IMG_1039.JPG" width="320" /></a>
<li>Buying cabinet locks</li>
<li>Putting plug covers around the house</li>
<li>Sweeping</li>
<li>Dusting</li>
<li>Mopping</li>
<li>Pricing gun cabinet...too expensive</li>
<li>Hiding ammo</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turns out none of this was really necessary!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In all our education, we seem to be finding more questions that answers....but perhaps that is the point?</div>
<div>
It seems that in parenting, like in marriage, it is the journey to the answers that is important, more than the answers themselves. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Where will I turn when my child won't sleep? What will I do when she repeatedly misbehaves, or doesn't seem to know how to misbehave thanks to years of "training" at her orphanage? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Will I turn to the Lord in prayer or will I run to my computer and try out bing.com since google is yielding faulty results? Will I ask the Lord for patience and guidance or immediately post something on facebook?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Praying for grace for each day of the journey...and to choose each day to lean on Him rather than the wisdom of this world. </div>
Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-56024419334213451872013-04-13T19:21:00.001-07:002013-04-13T19:21:17.331-07:00Blessings in BusinessThe past few weeks have been filled with crafting, teaching, Relay for Life planning and working on chemistry projects through A+ college ready...all while the adoption paperwork and upcoming home study take a back burner.<br />
<br />
Here are a few updates from life.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Crafts: Marjorie, Rachel and I had lots of fun hanging out, meeting people and selling a few crafts at the Mt. Laurel Spring Festival today.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Last month we raised approximately $1,000 selling crafts, monies which are currently in the mail to All God's Children International to be placed in our adoption fund! <br />
<br />
We have a few new door hangers available, just in time for summer and Mother's Day!<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Paperwork: We are about half way done with a training booklet on adoption and it has been so <strike>terrifying</strike> eye-opening. It seems to focus on the worst-case scenario, but it is encouraging us to ask good questions, discuss them and look for wisdom. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Homestudy: We will have our first home visit on April 23. Prayers will be much appreciated on that day and leading up to. Also, if you have ever had a home study we would love to have a few pointers.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li> School: My AP students are having a GREAT year! Their AP exam is May 4 and I can't wait to see how they do. I've been teaching some review sessions on Saturday for a little extra cash. It is very rewarding to be able to use my chemistry knowledge and training in education outside the normal classroom setting. </li>
</ul>
Thank you all for reading, praying, and supporting Adam and I! <br />
<br />
<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-39421000208498542332013-03-23T15:23:00.000-07:002013-03-23T15:23:23.696-07:00The Gopher HoleIf you have never heard shouts of "GO GOPHERS! DIG, DIG, DIG!" then "You ain't from around here."<br />
<br />
In Hueytown, they cheer the Mighty Golden Gophers onto victory and use the namesake whenever possible. Therefore, today's craft show was entitled appropriately "<b>The Gopher Hole</b>."<br />
<br />
We found out about this event just as we were starting out with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/From-Bham-With-Love/136079416563309">From B'ham With Love</a>, so we got in on the tail end of registration and barely secured a booth...an outside booth. The weather report grew more dim as the day approached, and I began to pray to the Lord diligently for blessings on the weather or a booth inside. Through a series of circumstances that were certainly from the Lord, we ended up with a booth inside, dry and warm and large enough for all of our displays.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWeTcmhLw8ScwC8m4dimk-grI-OgkZ2uxH2An-wmlTnzSkbJqHr3syYf0t3eo5kHdbN4UR4b8X8OueEMYO79UolSzhaKLBgWLW9eYLqigAD8LXpftzZqJfTnUO6q8FGxPCyG3kiIyo-o/s1600/IMG_1103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWeTcmhLw8ScwC8m4dimk-grI-OgkZ2uxH2An-wmlTnzSkbJqHr3syYf0t3eo5kHdbN4UR4b8X8OueEMYO79UolSzhaKLBgWLW9eYLqigAD8LXpftzZqJfTnUO6q8FGxPCyG3kiIyo-o/s400/IMG_1103.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Most of the clientele at this event was not necessarily in our target audience (people with walkers and white hair do not share our passion for burlap), but we did have visits from a few friends, and it turns out we had just what they were looking for...so they bought lots of stuff!<br />
<br />
Things to rejoice about this week:<br />
<ul>
<li>Our first craft show was a success</li>
<li>Marjorie and I got to spend quality time together</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQnc7859_rbXOF9S26-Y94yVpjmqs-sLHmukEXT7FhiwSyr0gTTpXefP8-4AYSAVmJDJlcQY27NCOfiChUZHFPuxdPoees7j2qT5YAcR-MRCt9u_9GX6-1pYMCWSlzhsLzD44mygB-zA/s1600/IMG_1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQnc7859_rbXOF9S26-Y94yVpjmqs-sLHmukEXT7FhiwSyr0gTTpXefP8-4AYSAVmJDJlcQY27NCOfiChUZHFPuxdPoees7j2qT5YAcR-MRCt9u_9GX6-1pYMCWSlzhsLzD44mygB-zA/s320/IMG_1104.JPG" width="248" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I met a few people who had adopted and they were able to offer encouragement. One lady adopted two boys when they were 10 and 11. They are now grown men with families of their own. We hear so much about the scars that orphanages and abusive homes leave on kids--it was a treat to be reminded of the power of God to heal those hurts, and to use a loving family to do so. </li>
<li>Adam and I completed our finger prints this week...one more box checked off!</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsvvfLPW9dGXKBu478uKRYPdkGzbBYUTB-rwkrgxmwWCEiJ9tn4ZOvCfJVqsVC0e-MDSCNWQ0mFmAK9rw-xEA619NP_TWDTmRa_TqEWW0QSZAeEAdszpMSqmTcpnCGfVrnUtKCbRZbrs/s1600/IMG_1100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsvvfLPW9dGXKBu478uKRYPdkGzbBYUTB-rwkrgxmwWCEiJ9tn4ZOvCfJVqsVC0e-MDSCNWQ0mFmAK9rw-xEA619NP_TWDTmRa_TqEWW0QSZAeEAdszpMSqmTcpnCGfVrnUtKCbRZbrs/s320/IMG_1100.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li> We sold our treadmill! Money in the bank and <strike>even better</strike> just as good: a clear room that I can revamp. </li>
</ul>
<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-2960161105839578912013-03-20T06:07:00.000-07:002013-03-20T06:07:25.226-07:00To care for orphans and widows...<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277"><sup class="versenum"></sup><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.</span></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277">James 1:27</span></div>
<br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277">It is these words that often motivate me when I question our decision to adopt. When we started this process just a few weeks ago, it was full of excitement and anticipation as we imagined what it would be like to bring a little girl into our home. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277">However, the past few weeks have brought more than their fair share of reality. Adoption classes have been a constant reminder of the increased struggles that come with adopting a child that does not quite look like you and whose past is filled with painful scars, often unseen. Phone calls to insurance agencies and adoption clinics have opened our eyes to the high cost of raising a child with possible medical difficulties (or any child for that matter). Increased preoccupation with paperwork have put a strain on our time as a couple. </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277">When the tension builds and the "are we really ready for this?" speaks louder than the call we were given, where do we turn? </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-ESV-30277">We run back to the Word, to the only source of truth and cling tightly as the world around us reminds us that it was never a steady place in which to place our confidence. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
The second portion of this verse from James really struck me this morning...."and to keep oneself unstained from the world."<br />
<br />
The only way that we are capable of serving the orphan and widow "in their distress" (why did we think it was going to be easy?) is through Christ...in order for Christ to carry out His work in us, we must "work out our salvation" by keeping ourselves unstained by the world.<br />
<br />
This week I am rejoicing in God's constant pursuit of our hearts through His Spirit and His Word. When we are faithless, He remains faithful.<br />
<br />
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; <u><b>t</b><b>hough he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand</b></u>.<br />
Psalm 37:23-24Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-48854834996348984592013-03-12T19:46:00.000-07:002013-03-12T19:46:43.077-07:00The little things..."Celebrate the little things"<br />
This was a quote from a blog I read at the beginning of this process. So, if you will entertain me for just a minute, I'd like to do just that.<br />
<br />
This week's accomplishments:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48IOAttJO9ZWZZdtizn5Z7lwxSyAl7hcg-ZzQlhTCZYHchumFI_IW0TqdtrEyFa9-NBhag3tAdzzjy-31rAIS38-bDeAZtsCat8Gk5C8lTVLUYOpfCrFOO3gNStqRxOjvQdCLl2dJE-w/s1600/IMG_1046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48IOAttJO9ZWZZdtizn5Z7lwxSyAl7hcg-ZzQlhTCZYHchumFI_IW0TqdtrEyFa9-NBhag3tAdzzjy-31rAIS38-bDeAZtsCat8Gk5C8lTVLUYOpfCrFOO3gNStqRxOjvQdCLl2dJE-w/s320/IMG_1046.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
1. Printing and binding a good portion of the paperwork for ease of access.<br />
2. Our first call with our case manager who gave us some "homework," reminding us that you eat an elephant ONE BITE AT A TIME!<br />
3. Started copying and signing some things for our home study and successfully buried the table in paperwork. This evening when we were going to dinner we lost the gift card beneath the paperwork...luckily it was found but I had to stop and pray for patience in the middle of the ordeal!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovpfCgCc_9q8tpGRriW-xqWZybvp3kpI5DpRCqMT9BQ9Tcs9OPe3Soy5wrLI3GH19ZAP4gJWgjsmtaPK71dmf6DAhEr3xZmnZJHySnyU_0laubk2NoYi1iRt3pOjHZzenTk1dWNzDeLs/s1600/IMG_1047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovpfCgCc_9q8tpGRriW-xqWZybvp3kpI5DpRCqMT9BQ9Tcs9OPe3Soy5wrLI3GH19ZAP4gJWgjsmtaPK71dmf6DAhEr3xZmnZJHySnyU_0laubk2NoYi1iRt3pOjHZzenTk1dWNzDeLs/s320/IMG_1047.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
4. Our Facebook page has reached 177 likes and growing. I'm excited to know that each like is another person who knows about our adoption, can pray for us and support us, and perhaps can themselves be encouraged that we are adopted by the King...<br />
<br />
5. I have spent some time (with Marjorie's supervision) crafting. I do
love to craft, but it is even more fulfilling to know that each order is
one step closer to bringing a girl home. I feel that God has gifted us
with such a blessing in the form of this little shop. Because of the
long wait period of this process we are not really able to begin doing
the normal pre-baby things, such as decorating a room, buying clothes,
etc. Those things will certainly come, but until then there IS something
I can do...craft :-) <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N5VAzkKr7B6JeaPTP-h9exGLcMJhUOtZCGAT2KXGifWJRzBA6WCteDQ4v9kcohT14cyXmhmqadbOonHmt5oap9_QVIXuq17E31XMVL7HyqXdUU7gNoDK-ora8cu9T8nZBSoQobU57n4/s1600/IMG_1029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N5VAzkKr7B6JeaPTP-h9exGLcMJhUOtZCGAT2KXGifWJRzBA6WCteDQ4v9kcohT14cyXmhmqadbOonHmt5oap9_QVIXuq17E31XMVL7HyqXdUU7gNoDK-ora8cu9T8nZBSoQobU57n4/s320/IMG_1029.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shipped this lovely wreath to Denver, CO. We've got friends in HIGH places!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32n_BvIh6Ukdcx8BGBgcu8QL_FXPa8itNq8C9W-UMwsyxCMWeRoycSoM-obPKFaodPJfas4HneH_u06DGvf95bGGwOcS89u-t6NPu2IVW2zLh_mDOiVq_EDLcCNS_aPBUnh6IlJn7DTg/s1600/IMG_1008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32n_BvIh6Ukdcx8BGBgcu8QL_FXPa8itNq8C9W-UMwsyxCMWeRoycSoM-obPKFaodPJfas4HneH_u06DGvf95bGGwOcS89u-t6NPu2IVW2zLh_mDOiVq_EDLcCNS_aPBUnh6IlJn7DTg/s320/IMG_1008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delivered this to a lovely girl at the galleria...another new friend!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzKPh5VhZ6p3jOqzjFOoPvCMdelg9zHkE00uyHDn09_ZqEUkqrrJYf4-rbUziBpP66QYJQ5lSNY0fR-KDLWH8UlmzT3JszTTbcnUPx3wGm_kWWZexV3fVQ6HaXjhw8R_Gdb8hP1cGV10/s1600/IMG_1012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzKPh5VhZ6p3jOqzjFOoPvCMdelg9zHkE00uyHDn09_ZqEUkqrrJYf4-rbUziBpP66QYJQ5lSNY0fR-KDLWH8UlmzT3JszTTbcnUPx3wGm_kWWZexV3fVQ6HaXjhw8R_Gdb8hP1cGV10/s320/IMG_1012.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and I spent some quality time together creating this item.</td></tr>
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<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-45149765437065457522013-03-03T15:44:00.000-08:002013-03-03T15:44:30.238-08:00Sunday blessingsThis morning, and every other Sunday morning, I have the privilege of worshiping on my knees, literally, amongst people half my size.<br />
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This morning was the first Sunday since we announced our adoption that I had been with these little ones and thoughts of orphans were heavy on my mind.<br />
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Being in a church where the Word is preached does crazy things to people, including opening their eyes to the orphan and widow. Therefore, there are MANY adopted children in our congregation and quite a few in our Sunday School class.<br />
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Two of the children who became part of our church family via foster care were worshipping close to me this morning. It was such a blessing to hear them shout out "I'm gonna tell the world that God is good!" As the song ended and we sat to learn about and pray for missionaries in Kenya, one of these little ones crawled into my lap. As she pulled my arms around her, my thoughts wandered to where she may be without adoption...<br />
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Where would any of us be? We who are children of God have been adopted by Him and without Him we are children of the world, being led astray by things that will soon perish. This awareness should lead us all to "...tell the world that God is good!"<br />
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I am beginning to ponder...how can I make a difference, not just for this one little girl, but for many orphans...how can I support other families that are showing kids the love of Christ and helping them find their FOREVER home?<br />
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<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-24255661892552841222013-03-01T15:25:00.000-08:002013-03-01T15:25:52.835-08:00Another chapter Our story is much like any other....<br />
Boy and girl meet and fall in love<br />
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Boy asks girl to marry him...girl says <strike>I thought you'd never ask </strike>YES!<br />
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First comes love, then comes marriage,<br />
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then comes...<br />
A house, house payments, grown-up jobs and bills. It seems that life has become rather routine as we seek to be faithful in the little things--at work, at school, in our neighborhood...<br />
In our downtime, Adam loves to get his hands dirty growing yummy veggies.<br />
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And I don't mind using them to create delicious things in the kitchen.<br />
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And, recently, we have found <strike>frustration and</strike> entertainment via this <strike>little, </strike>talkative orange cat.<br />
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However, God recently pressed on our hearts that it was time for a new chapter, one that will lead to the pitter patter of little feet, child-proof cabinet locks, and ANOTHER WATERS!</div>
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Adam and I are adopting! </div>
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Ever since I can recall we have discussed bringing a little girl into our home through the miracle of adoption. We have been praying about the right time to begin this process and researching various adoption agencies and countries. While Bulgaria was not our first, second, or third choice the Lord made it clear that it was HIS choice for us. </div>
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We are now in the process of filling out our contract and gathering funds for our first big payment (any help would be accepted and appreciated).</div>
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This journey promises to be a long one, likely over two years filled with joys and sorrows as we continue to live life while preparing and anxiously awaiting the homecoming of our little girl.</div>
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We would love for you to join us as we wait by...</div>
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<ul>
<li>Praying for us, for our marriage to continue to grow stronger and for our minds to be most occupied with what God has for us here and now.</li>
<li>Praying for our little girl, whether born or unborn, that her parents would choose life and that she would be well-nourished in body and spirit as she grows.</li>
<li>Praying for the social workers, adoption agencies, and beauracracy, that the process would go as smoothly as possible and our interactions with these individuals would be an encouragement to us both.</li>
<li>Spreading the Word about our new Etsy shop: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FromBhamWithLove">FromBhamWithLove</a>...the perfect place to get great items for your home and support our adoption at the same time!</li>
<li>Donating to our adoption fund...a tax deductible means for donation will be available within the next few weeks...we'll keep you posted!</li>
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<br />Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-65166968733337447592012-03-25T14:28:00.004-07:002012-03-29T16:11:34.998-07:00Homemade RavioliWhat shall we do to celebrate the beginning of Spring Break?<br /><br />I decided to visit one of my favorite sisters and having a cooking adventure. What could be more adventurous that homemade pasta?<br /><br />I'll spare you the recipe details, but if you are interested in making it yourself, you can find step-by-steps at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">annies</span>-eats.com (and all over the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">internet</span>).<br /><br />Homemade pasta is a beautiful thing; although a bit labor-intensive, it all hands-on and somewhat mindless, a combination that you don't find much in my line of work, and one that makes for perfect kitchen therapy. Because there are a myriad of steps that don't involve hot things or sharp things, this could be a great one to get the kids involved in.<br /><br />Here are some snap-shots of the action:<br /><br />After rolling out the dough (made of flour, eggs, salt, water and a little oil), we stuffed them with four cheeses and garlic before cutting them out with a small cookie cutter (no ravioli press required).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kIJEX8V-YqPFffuiBZrTRy_Obd7f43ln_yvNKOjuqrzzMCXFfnf79SepIve9YJKyRi6xYKcKsEMd8hPWrzzDA4rVcGVbHx1fNCHLGXf2e85koQlhautVZaTFFPH4qol6vbknRjnJvVo/s1600/IMG_0237.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kIJEX8V-YqPFffuiBZrTRy_Obd7f43ln_yvNKOjuqrzzMCXFfnf79SepIve9YJKyRi6xYKcKsEMd8hPWrzzDA4rVcGVbHx1fNCHLGXf2e85koQlhautVZaTFFPH4qol6vbknRjnJvVo/s400/IMG_0237.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723951139062123250" border="0" /></a><br />The precious raviolis were allowed to "dry" before being tossed into wet boiling water (weird concept), like drying off before you jump in the swimming pool? Probably a little more chemistry involved than that!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6C_C_3rXzYHvJg4ysb5BiVowKOS10r1AYdrtJg0hXDZVYxcpIAWwAyJX1RDMf7mqVPoTM7FvkyLAtc7BI0sCWnsOiwrNb1924ClVbO0GApml8cgGzzvsb4dcvE0HnSqqTAd1DAkYVCM/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6C_C_3rXzYHvJg4ysb5BiVowKOS10r1AYdrtJg0hXDZVYxcpIAWwAyJX1RDMf7mqVPoTM7FvkyLAtc7BI0sCWnsOiwrNb1924ClVbO0GApml8cgGzzvsb4dcvE0HnSqqTAd1DAkYVCM/s400/IMG_0235.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723951139811613666" border="0" /></a><br />Taking a warm bath: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjaLBsraQQ8djw1C32D9WJ_icKZtQ-kJlMX1K6sjijE-0ndKHQ0BU6fYm5ZT0T2B4p2oDvoJGptMe6QZkKrH-PNlJm31APMNLVJfEkTKZFn7h36SDuQ1fVg-0gS78xqFQL8WwvyvydGS8/s1600/IMG_0239.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjaLBsraQQ8djw1C32D9WJ_icKZtQ-kJlMX1K6sjijE-0ndKHQ0BU6fYm5ZT0T2B4p2oDvoJGptMe6QZkKrH-PNlJm31APMNLVJfEkTKZFn7h36SDuQ1fVg-0gS78xqFQL8WwvyvydGS8/s400/IMG_0239.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723951120538343586" border="0" /></a>Served with meat sauce, garlic bread sticks (going to get the recipe and share it with you soon...better than olive garden!) and a side salad.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQVeqistqaLyNoVuGFIKfp6a9P9Yr0QzIuo5SxeA2WC39qilJa_eXtGVhdCB7i7eZshLNGe9uLrri9wTJ0i-IaCFPy2MnhNwdLTlRMWUaCUABYluPp2fJ9rpJ__RNK6rxKp8wWJVvYTs/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQVeqistqaLyNoVuGFIKfp6a9P9Yr0QzIuo5SxeA2WC39qilJa_eXtGVhdCB7i7eZshLNGe9uLrri9wTJ0i-IaCFPy2MnhNwdLTlRMWUaCUABYluPp2fJ9rpJ__RNK6rxKp8wWJVvYTs/s400/IMG_0240.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723951114844465202" border="0" /></a>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-40484774306075263592012-03-25T13:33:00.003-07:002012-03-25T13:52:16.843-07:00Olive Garden Soup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKypK85FF5sYX_swU59YAvBj0wIDUi8J9GXsvIvg0I9AD96vBQvrlxstcwV6AMmur2K6iH3XLW5zuwNzUCLbEU_paPeHSlY4QOBVj479krrkUOt9h7_IcjGl2H5ZHu9QyO59px6jPpwvE/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKypK85FF5sYX_swU59YAvBj0wIDUi8J9GXsvIvg0I9AD96vBQvrlxstcwV6AMmur2K6iH3XLW5zuwNzUCLbEU_paPeHSlY4QOBVj479krrkUOt9h7_IcjGl2H5ZHu9QyO59px6jPpwvE/s400/IMG_0226.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723939561517888306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpxkq0aK_-rsYYG5oWxIRrbjf-37l2HGq0cPI1g_rrB-szdMsyz2rpQWOgmDZaD76d9M5Z-YJyzDztEUJM0kNeT4aoM8Y_GylHv5dOnb8giCm5ELczsBVZGONTbLbhPG2FIURBMbsAeQ/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG"><br /></a><br />Since moving to Hueytown, God has impressed upon our hearts the importance of Biblical community <span style="font-style: italic;">in your community. </span>We are blessed with an incredible group of friends that we meet with on Sunday evenings to study the Word and encourage one another, but it was difficult to really encourage one another outside of this time due to our distance from them.<br /><br />As God was showing us this revelation, He was also gathering together a group of people for a weekly meal who would become our Hueytown small groupies--a youth minister, hair dresser, nurse, pharmaceutical tech, band director...quite an assortment of people, all desiring Biblical community.<br /><br />We now meet each Thursday and before we open the Word for in-depth study and reflection, we fellowship and bless one another over a yummy meal. Sometimes it can be difficult to cook for 8 we you are accustomed to cooking for 2, but recipes like this make it easy and even fun!<br /><br />So, invite some people over, but don't just eat--open the Word together as well!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpxkq0aK_-rsYYG5oWxIRrbjf-37l2HGq0cPI1g_rrB-szdMsyz2rpQWOgmDZaD76d9M5Z-YJyzDztEUJM0kNeT4aoM8Y_GylHv5dOnb8giCm5ELczsBVZGONTbLbhPG2FIURBMbsAeQ/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpxkq0aK_-rsYYG5oWxIRrbjf-37l2HGq0cPI1g_rrB-szdMsyz2rpQWOgmDZaD76d9M5Z-YJyzDztEUJM0kNeT4aoM8Y_GylHv5dOnb8giCm5ELczsBVZGONTbLbhPG2FIURBMbsAeQ/s400/IMG_0227.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723939553084524338" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need:<br /></span>*This does make 12-14 servings, so cut the recipe if you are not cooking for a crowd or make the whole thing and freeze the excess<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />**</span>Taken from <a href="http://restaurant.food.com/recipe/olive-garden-pasta-e-fagioli-soup-in-a-crock-pot-copycat-31717">here</a><br /><ul><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2 </span> <span class="type">lbs</span></span> ground beef<span class="name"> </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 onion</span></span><span class="name"> chopped </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">3 carrots </span></span><span class="name">chopped </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">4 </span> <span class="type">stalks celery </span></span><span class="name">chopped </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2</span> <span class="type">(28 ounce)</span></span> cans diced tomatoes,<span class="name"> undrained </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> <span class="type">(16 ounce)</span></span> can red kidney beans<span class="name">, drained </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> <span class="type">(16 ounce)</span></span> can white kidney beans,<span class="name"> drained (I used pinto because I didn't have any white kidney and it turned out just delish)</span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">3</span> <span class="type">(10 ounce)</span></span> cans or one box <span class="name">beef stock </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">3 </span> <span class="type">teaspoons oregano</span></span><span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/oregano-334"></a> </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2 </span> <span class="type">teaspoons pepper</span></span><span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/pepper-337"></a> </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">5 </span> <span class="type">teaspoons parsley<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span></span><span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/parsley-171"></a> </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 </span> <span class="type">teaspoon Tabasco sauce (optional)</span></span><span class="name"></span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> <span class="type">(20 ounce)</span></span> jar <span class="name"> spaghetti sauce </span> </span> </li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">8 </span> <span class="type">ounces</span></span> <span class="name"> <a href="http://www.food.com/library/pasta-273"> pasta </a> </span> </span> </li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">What to do:</span> (I recommend completing the first two steps the night before you plan to enjoy and storing in the fridge. Place it in the crock pot before heading to work, and it will be ready when you return!)<br />1. Brown beef.<br />2. Add to LARGE crock pot along with all other ingredients EXCEPT noodles.<br />3. Cook on high 4-5 hours or low 7-8 hours<br />4. During last 30 minutes on high or 1 hour on low, add pasta and allow to cook.<br />5. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve alongside soft garlic knots and finish with a bite of the Bread of Life :-)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpxkq0aK_-rsYYG5oWxIRrbjf-37l2HGq0cPI1g_rrB-szdMsyz2rpQWOgmDZaD76d9M5Z-YJyzDztEUJM0kNeT4aoM8Y_GylHv5dOnb8giCm5ELczsBVZGONTbLbhPG2FIURBMbsAeQ/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG"><br /></a>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-86225674679079273522012-03-20T09:58:00.004-07:002012-03-20T10:23:45.756-07:00Soft Garlic Knots<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyNbcns_q2HrlUwvJfL8PaaHbx06G9vzhD1Xuq4Mccym7e03AQVywL3zEUY0DSEPOgY-d_SsyKXmlcmpkzCZRNyiCEoaV2ubNuoz19lbmU9TVleRZm2MaYmPGIpGTV2U8-wDvYCu1wug/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjroXtcAp27SLzrL_9_cFGl1PQ7YB-wgZx37vpyF6Gv3nVRdTeT8iadv5qhk4nKk5tpRWfhLcLbQrRva-gve3U1uK8A9nl0F0V7eAPBkry0lyTXdX8rZe6Vhdn_DN8dBAuBy0gKLAUBE/s1600/IMG_0223.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjroXtcAp27SLzrL_9_cFGl1PQ7YB-wgZx37vpyF6Gv3nVRdTeT8iadv5qhk4nKk5tpRWfhLcLbQrRva-gve3U1uK8A9nl0F0V7eAPBkry0lyTXdX8rZe6Vhdn_DN8dBAuBy0gKLAUBE/s400/IMG_0223.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722030473016745602" border="0" /></a><br />Jesus said to them, “Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Matthew 16:6<br /><br />Huh?<br /><br />The kitchen is my "happy place," the first place I want to be after a stressful day at work. While many would love to be outside enjoying this weather, I'd rather open the window and let it come in and join me in the kitchen.<br /><br />Recently, during a session of kitchen therapy, I thought about this verse from Matthew as I watched just two teaspoons of yeast go to work on a bowl full of flour. How powerful is this leaven that can move through a batch of garlic knots, doubling its size in only an hour. So how does this relate to the leaven of the Pharisees? In Matthew 16, Jesus was referring to the teaching of the Pharisees and, perhaps, alluding to the way that bad doctrine can spread.<br /><br />While we don't have Pharisees and Saducees tempting us with bad doctrine today, there are all sorts of false doctrines attempting to creep into our churches and our lives. How do we battle these?<br /><br />Well, here is another kitchen revelation. I recently discovered that salt kills the action of yeast. What did Jesus call us to be? Salt and light! So, let's fight the yeast of false doctrine by grounding ourselves in the Word of God and bringing salt to a world searching for truth.<br /><br />Consider these things as you watch yeast work in your own batch of soft garlic knots!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJsGexG-iVqPLsxz4oJaGz2e6l0I3FPmCdfA3NIJ_NPzV_hMBAuggJ-0_sfmCN_Q2EFJEfGmGI4ZAsM6A9-_CL5N1BGFSBSlYodr23YeAua6RN2AiYtYDqkkRjGaEoYXE2IPadcY9RNo/s1600/IMG_0222.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJsGexG-iVqPLsxz4oJaGz2e6l0I3FPmCdfA3NIJ_NPzV_hMBAuggJ-0_sfmCN_Q2EFJEfGmGI4ZAsM6A9-_CL5N1BGFSBSlYodr23YeAua6RN2AiYtYDqkkRjGaEoYXE2IPadcY9RNo/s400/IMG_0222.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722030460877420082" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Recipe adapted from <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2010/09/29/soft-garlic-knots/">annieseats.com</a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need:<br /></span>For the dough:<br /><ul><li>3 cups bread flour (I have made with ap flour and had good results)<br /></li><li>1 tbsp. sugar</li><li>2 tsp. yeast</li><li>1¼ tsp. salt</li><li>2 tbsp. olive oil</li><li>¼ cup milk</li><li>1 cup plus 2 tbsp. lukewarm water </li></ul>For the glaze:<br /><ul><li>2 cloves garlic minced<br /></li><li>3 tbsp. melted butter</li><li>½ tsp. Italian seasoning</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">What to do:<br /></span><p class="c1"><span class="c2">Add 2 tsp yeast to 1 cup please 2 tbsp warm water. Allow this to sit and become foamy while you gather the other ingredients.<br /></span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment combine the dry ingredients.<br /></span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">Add the olive oil, milk and yeasty water. Mix until ingredients have formed a dough. Add more flour if dough is not pulling away from the sides and add more water if there is lots of loose flour still in the bottom of the bowl.</span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2"> Switch to the dough hook and knead on low speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turn once to coat, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk.<br /></span></p><p class="c3 c1"><span class="c2"></span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 10-inch long rope (think about rolling playdough into a snake) and tie into a knot. Take the end lying underneath the knot and bring it over the top, tucking it into the center.</span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">Take the end lying over the knot and tuck it underneath and into the center. Transfer shaped rolls to a baking stone, or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 45 minutes, until puffy.</span></p><p class="c1"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyNbcns_q2HrlUwvJfL8PaaHbx06G9vzhD1Xuq4Mccym7e03AQVywL3zEUY0DSEPOgY-d_SsyKXmlcmpkzCZRNyiCEoaV2ubNuoz19lbmU9TVleRZm2MaYmPGIpGTV2U8-wDvYCu1wug/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyNbcns_q2HrlUwvJfL8PaaHbx06G9vzhD1Xuq4Mccym7e03AQVywL3zEUY0DSEPOgY-d_SsyKXmlcmpkzCZRNyiCEoaV2ubNuoz19lbmU9TVleRZm2MaYmPGIpGTV2U8-wDvYCu1wug/s400/IMG_0219.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722030827925674978" border="0" /></a></p><p class="c1 c3"><span class="c2"></span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">To make the glaze, mix the minced garlic with the melted butter and Italian seasoning.</span></p><p class="c3 c1"><span class="c2"></span></p><p class="c1"><span class="c2">Preheat the oven to 350° F. Brush the glaze onto the shaped rolls. Bake until set and lightly browned, about 15-18 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving.</span></p>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-68509874723034315122012-03-10T18:58:00.004-08:002012-03-13T16:09:20.497-07:00Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Muffins<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_JkuVyIiDxc6wjB_k7XiNAzPn7wrpRlgxGmH8NvXuyUI5kZJ18R4uckuVfoJLcQghro7IznX5H4yB0u_g7YtocVxT00ELcNo2d1qBo0iNDgPP0WwVw1YE4IMgR2PUhGLK_2nusUERGc/s1600/IMG_0209.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_JkuVyIiDxc6wjB_k7XiNAzPn7wrpRlgxGmH8NvXuyUI5kZJ18R4uckuVfoJLcQghro7IznX5H4yB0u_g7YtocVxT00ELcNo2d1qBo0iNDgPP0WwVw1YE4IMgR2PUhGLK_2nusUERGc/s400/IMG_0209.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718468825938602258" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;" ><br />How do you say "I care a lot about you" to a group of teenagers? Well, there is the obvious answer, that you could just say it :-) and perhaps I will try that soon. For me however, the way that I often say "I care" is through something that I have mixed together, baked up, and handed out with love.<br /><br />That is just what I did on Monday as my AP students came to school bright and early and took their mock exam. They were greeted by pans of peanut butter chocolate chip muffins as well as these more savory sausage, egg, and cheese muffins.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuaQD-CQnDebxVlpiOJ7BxkIAe2yJvGl1-7g3qvvFHZiA0_aHPFZS85gdVONkspoz31EKFpXFykYEB3Y5qmQxtE9odUXpERXbxEL8UeOW3zv6rgsF2GLFPULZ9wwLOqD5BDFXsJYk5LQ/s1600/IMG_0210.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuaQD-CQnDebxVlpiOJ7BxkIAe2yJvGl1-7g3qvvFHZiA0_aHPFZS85gdVONkspoz31EKFpXFykYEB3Y5qmQxtE9odUXpERXbxEL8UeOW3zv6rgsF2GLFPULZ9wwLOqD5BDFXsJYk5LQ/s400/IMG_0210.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718468817878330882" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;" ><br />I am not sure I they got my message across, but the muffins were all gone by the time the 185 minute test was over.<br /><br />Would you like to say "I love you" to someone special? Perhaps you should bake them something warm and yummy!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need</span><br /></span> <meta name="Title" content=""> <meta name="Keywords" content=""> <meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"> <meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"> <meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 2008"> <meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 2008"> <link style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" rel="File-List" href="file://localhost/Users/sybisue/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip/0/clip_filelist.xml"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Times; panose-1:2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} p {margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Times; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <ul style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li><span style="font-size:130%;">½ pound ground pork sausage, cooked & drained</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">1 cup Bisquick</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">1/3 cup sour cream</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">1/2 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">2 large. eggs, lightly beaten</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">2/3 cup milk</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">salt and pepper to taste</span></li></ul> <p style="margin: 0.1pt 0in; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.1pt 0in; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What to do</span><br /></span></p><ul style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"> Grease the muffin cups of a standard muffin pan generously.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Cook sausage and drain.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">When cooled, put in a large bowl and add Bisquick, sour cream and cheddar cheese.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">In a small bowl, beat eggs and add milk.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Pour into sausage mix and mix completely; don’t over stir.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Salt and pepper to your liking. <br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Pour evenly into muffin cups and bake for 30 – 40 minutes until cooked thoroughly.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Take out of muffin cups immediately. Let cool and then refrigerate what you don’t eat immediately.</span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-33681457400435997372012-03-10T14:24:00.006-08:002012-03-12T15:45:32.811-07:00Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Muffins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHtRdDGq-Yng_JiS1z6Y5XhS3KjRY-70Nmzzb-eOWrmEGpYfQyu1trQAyNMXMIN3pEE_3mU0feP6QGGyF5iX6TomfL0oXCYdhfNAZmu0GtV_Cc-oqH4PHnkCV959opjavr_tGxy2VCIQ/s1600/IMG_0207.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHtRdDGq-Yng_JiS1z6Y5XhS3KjRY-70Nmzzb-eOWrmEGpYfQyu1trQAyNMXMIN3pEE_3mU0feP6QGGyF5iX6TomfL0oXCYdhfNAZmu0GtV_Cc-oqH4PHnkCV959opjavr_tGxy2VCIQ/s400/IMG_0207.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718467931610541826" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Have you ever heard of anything with both chocolate and peanut butter in it that was not good? Those were my immediate thoughts when I read this recipe on <a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/">annies-eats.com</a>. The combination always reminds me of Adam's wedding cake by the great Jenny Scott. It was so moist, chocolately and delish.<br /><br />I was searching for something to make for my AP students on Monday morning. They are taking their mock exam and I wanted something to award their efforts so far and motivate them to work hard on the test. I believe these will do just the trick! I also selected a sausage, egg and cheese muffin which I will post later in the week.<br /><br />I opted for the mini muffins because I think they are more fun but you could definitely produce these in a larger size.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVlPfl6_wQ-Z0DA4J_3AVjQHlf-qoQET3iePG0qSvYxHQzYq8rhUwdSxkbBYatSLKrECXfspDNDdL3cVuUWY98j-jvIvMcrRXhyKn8owZe-G11B8Z5cvTgLhFwly5J7aDmqubhdLmPGU/s1600/IMG_0204.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVlPfl6_wQ-Z0DA4J_3AVjQHlf-qoQET3iePG0qSvYxHQzYq8rhUwdSxkbBYatSLKrECXfspDNDdL3cVuUWY98j-jvIvMcrRXhyKn8owZe-G11B8Z5cvTgLhFwly5J7aDmqubhdLmPGU/s400/IMG_0204.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718467943108192914" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span> <meta name="Title" content=""> <meta name="Keywords" content=""> <meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"> <meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"> <meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 2008"> <meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 2008"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Times; panose-1:2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Garamond; panose-1:2 2 4 4 3 3 1 1 8 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >What you need:</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span> <ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">2 tsp. baking powder</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">½ tsp. salt</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">2/3 cup brown sugar</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">6 tbsp. butter, melted and cooled</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">½ cup peanut butter</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">2 large eggs</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">1 cup milk</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">¾ cup chocolate chips</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"> </span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><i style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;">What to do: </i><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">Preheat oven to 375°. Spray the muffin pan of your choice (12 regular muffins or 24 mini muffins)</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"> </span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and brown sugar. Set aside.</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"> </span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, peanut butter, eggs and milk until smooth. Add in the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Divide batter evenly between prepared muffin tins, filling each to the top.</span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"> </span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:10pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">Bake for 17-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Garamond;">Allow to cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-12392280663014795402012-03-08T19:53:00.005-08:002012-03-10T14:20:55.892-08:00Sweet Potato Chili and Cornbread<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhdfACgY9hq8QW-goWS-wlnLAQQr4pANzMuke4yIcB-icT6ZBcD1e1ZHDiNHq0m0IFEYOtBuCLOz7Ky3-nIuMOVZeD_sJGhBsH5pCPt8ndNHlZq5x1b5dZrk0iROD_KBjqbeTs7lUOl0/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhdfACgY9hq8QW-goWS-wlnLAQQr4pANzMuke4yIcB-icT6ZBcD1e1ZHDiNHq0m0IFEYOtBuCLOz7Ky3-nIuMOVZeD_sJGhBsH5pCPt8ndNHlZq5x1b5dZrk0iROD_KBjqbeTs7lUOl0/s400/IMG_0196.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718396558440186146" border="0" /></a>There are few things better than knowing dinner is waiting for you at home and all you have to do is dip it out of the crockpot! My favorite crockpot recipes are those that can sit unattended for 8 hours or longer. This sweet potato chili fit perfectly into that category.<br /><br /><br />I mixed up some simple jalapeno cheddar cornbread to go along with it for a hearty and delicious cool weather meal. However, it was not very cool on Wednesday. Spring has arrived early here in the heart of dixie, or maybe it never left :-) Anywho, this was a delicious meal no matter the weather. Perhaps you can enjoy the oddity of sweet potatoes in your chili sometime soon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sweet Potato Chili </span>(from <a href="http://www.canyoustayfordinner.com/2011/10/03/slow-cooked-sweet-potato-chili/">canyoustayfordinner.com</a>)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5czcefFwpxyyQ6qur3jdwEiBoQIqSAk6H9G37frLhXBbYtk4yxSgecjH45C074sDoAHx7WkrW_8uFIkqATe4yxy1hLNFOJVYwPyCvVsKnll4APmSlx9uMI7P_5Szb17JVcitR2tbdj8/s1600/IMG_0187.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5czcefFwpxyyQ6qur3jdwEiBoQIqSAk6H9G37frLhXBbYtk4yxSgecjH45C074sDoAHx7WkrW_8uFIkqATe4yxy1hLNFOJVYwPyCvVsKnll4APmSlx9uMI7P_5Szb17JVcitR2tbdj8/s400/IMG_0187.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718396554010780034" border="0" /></a><br />Ingredients: <ul><li>28 ounce can crushed tomatoes (I did not have so I used a larger container of tomatoes and added a little tomato sauce and tomato paste)<br /></li><li>14 ounce can diced tomatoes</li><li>2 tablespoons chili powder</li><li>1 tablespoon ground cumin</li><li>2 teaspoons smoked paprika</li><li>1 tablespoon brown sugar</li><li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li><li>2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1” pieces</li><li>1 medium onion, coarsely chopped</li><li>2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>15 ounce can kidney beans</li><li>15 ounce can black beans</li><li>1 lb ground beef (This is optional. If you are going to use it, I would brown the meat beforehand. I think chicken would also make a lovely pairing)<br /></li></ul> <p>Directions (I love how short these are)<br /></p> <p>Combine all ingredients in the base of your slow cooker and stir to mix well. Cook on low for 10 hours.<br /></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jalapeno and Cheddar Cornbread </span>(from <a href="http://www.honeyandjam.com/2010/12/jalapeno-and-cheddar-cornbread.html">honeyandjam.com</a>)</p><ul><li>oil or butter, for greasing your pan</li><li>3/4 cup of all purpose flour</li><li>3/4 cup of yellow cornmeal</li><li>1 tsp. salt</li><li>2 tsp. baking powder</li><li>1 tsp. baking soda</li><li>1/4 cup of butter, melted</li><li>1 large egg</li><li>1 1/4 cup of buttermilk</li><li>1/2 cup cheddar cheese (I used a mexican blend)*<br /></li><li>1/4 cup diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)*<br /></li></ul><p><br />Turn on your oven to 400 to preheat.<br /><br />Grease in the inside of a cast iron pan (or cake pan), place in the oven to preheat as well.<br /><br />In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, baking powder and baking soda.<br /><br />In another bowl, combine melted butter, egg and buttermilk.<br /><br />Pour milk mixture into the flour mixture, along with cheese and jalapenos. Stir until just combined. Its A-OK if there are still a few lumps in the batter.<br /><br />Remove pan from over, carefully. Pour batter into the pan, return to oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean.</p><p>Enjoy alongside chili or your favorite soup.<br /></p><p>**Jalapenos and cheddar can be easily omitted for a simple cornbread.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSZC36TcIa4D_DQ4eP45ipMjUKX8UthGsQjkimNlTi7KB4mtdxxfo6FMjE0mek9LgKiujY_9TD4ucSmOJDhZg0MNkMqPY05O8iEby1xUzaPQhxVMTnyStOSqeADSpfW98NsPJzq6i1U8/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSZC36TcIa4D_DQ4eP45ipMjUKX8UthGsQjkimNlTi7KB4mtdxxfo6FMjE0mek9LgKiujY_9TD4ucSmOJDhZg0MNkMqPY05O8iEby1xUzaPQhxVMTnyStOSqeADSpfW98NsPJzq6i1U8/s400/IMG_0195.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718396572123530642" border="0" /></a></p>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-76599284966440503922012-03-05T18:38:00.004-08:002012-03-05T19:09:07.286-08:00Stuffed Cube Steak Roll-UpsI accidentally got cube steaks out of the freezer instead of ground beef this weekend, leaving me with thawed meat that I had no plan for. How many things can you really make with cube steak?<br /><br />Pioneer Woman's Chicken Fried Steak is pretty amazing but also somewhat overdone at our house. Additionally, it MUST be accompanied by mashed potatoes and I was not in the mood. So, I went to the most trusted source (pinterest) and found a recipe entitled: <a href="http://amandascookin.com/2009/08/grilled-cube-steak-rollups.html">Grilled Cube Steak Roll-Up</a>.<br /><br />It is not quiet grilling weather, so I made a few changes. Here are the results, followed by the slightly revised recipe.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHb3dfdZNVeEagbn9jC8ydtyW7mwSuLQdnz51PKYtcbx9dbSUHWtqi_9ZtLrMjPN_gbEN1sqRhHnY4IBP3q90QEnbtQ1RFtfQnM9Y7Gpv_-k-bcqV7wDF2q_Qqe2JsIBIDZsp75QSg4w/s1600/photo%25282%2529.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHb3dfdZNVeEagbn9jC8ydtyW7mwSuLQdnz51PKYtcbx9dbSUHWtqi_9ZtLrMjPN_gbEN1sqRhHnY4IBP3q90QEnbtQ1RFtfQnM9Y7Gpv_-k-bcqV7wDF2q_Qqe2JsIBIDZsp75QSg4w/s400/photo%25282%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716610966652779618" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need</span><br />4-5 pieces cube steaks (cut into smaller pieces if some of the cube steaks are large)<br />marinade (recipe below)<br />2 oz cream cheese, softened<br />4-5 pieces bacon (raw)<br />Basil or other green herbs<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Marinade</span><br />1/2 cup cooking oil<br />1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce<br />6 tablespoons soy sauce<br />1/4 cup minced garlic<br />1/2 medium onion, chopped<br />1 tablespoon pepper<br />3 tablespoons Chicago Seasoning (Penzey’s) or other steak seasoning<br />3 tablespoons bbq sauce of your choice<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What to do</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For the Marinade </span><br />Puree ingredients in food processor. Pour over meat in a glass dish or gallon zipper bag and place in the refrigerator 2-24 hours.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />For the Roll Ups </span><br />Preheat oven to 375 F or grill to high heat (see cooking options below).<br />Remove the steaks from the marinade and place on paper towel to drain some of the marinade off. You may also want to pat it dry a bit. I did not complete this step and some of the steaks were a little too flavorful from the leftover marinade.<br /><br />Spread a thin layer of cream cheese over one side of each steak and sprinkle with your herbs.<br />Beginning with the short end, roll up the steaks.<br />Spirally wrap a piece of bacon around steak and secure with one or two toothpicks.<br /><br />From here, there are a couple of approaches to finish preparing the steaks:<br />-Sear on the grill, then turn the grill to low and continue to cooking for about 30 minutes.<br />-Sear on the stove top and then move to the oven at 375 for thirty minutes.<br />-Do not sear and just cook in oven at 375 for 30 minutes or more. (This is what I did by placing the roll-ups on a cooling rack on a baking sheet and baking until the thickest one was browned throughout).Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26501714976595409.post-83963987463066003592012-03-04T16:44:00.004-08:002012-03-05T16:50:33.948-08:00Mexican Mac and CheeseAdam texted me yesterday and said he was feeling "either mexican or pasta for dinner." Why not have both?<br />I was uncertain about this recipe at first but upon first taste it went from "humm" to "yumm!"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugOSgi2Mb8UFY0S8h3YdBM2v6WupwDqIlNUhiv3rb4scppwsFk6faeAJNCEaYvwtAFEn1Xu-hn2f7nhEWqbxdq0uWVFltnXYsZt_XHiIvr-ib7U1Gj5xZ2PJf2QtO_NR4QlZ986mmeIo/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugOSgi2Mb8UFY0S8h3YdBM2v6WupwDqIlNUhiv3rb4scppwsFk6faeAJNCEaYvwtAFEn1Xu-hn2f7nhEWqbxdq0uWVFltnXYsZt_XHiIvr-ib7U1Gj5xZ2PJf2QtO_NR4QlZ986mmeIo/s320/IMG_0184.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716218658492490466" border="0" /></a><br /><br />To prepare the chicken breasts:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8L3bCDpa5c87a7ok39FzSr0SaX1kxtX3X6-K0lh6Z7Zdw-xfMhQHDJwFDdSfymTyzi8522WEx1G-sABkKs2MwNmznJUoD3cpGTKLbVOPi9p_l_rJvxyxQuAWoGVKT1sJUDr2MDoXVno/s1600/IMG_0182.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8L3bCDpa5c87a7ok39FzSr0SaX1kxtX3X6-K0lh6Z7Zdw-xfMhQHDJwFDdSfymTyzi8522WEx1G-sABkKs2MwNmznJUoD3cpGTKLbVOPi9p_l_rJvxyxQuAWoGVKT1sJUDr2MDoXVno/s320/IMG_0182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716218669703013266" border="0" /></a><br /><ol><li>Preheat oven to 375 F</li><li>Place chicken on pan with aluminum foil<br /></li><li>Season chicken on both sides with either packaged taco seasoning or a mixture of salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic and onion powder</li><li>Wrap foil around chicken to create a "packet"</li><li>Bake for 35-45 minutes or until done</li></ol>Alternately, you could use pre-cooked or left-over chicken or even ground beef.<br /><br />The rest of the recipe (<span style="text-decoration: underline;">adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/04/mexican-mac-and-cheese-cups/">howsweeteats.com</a></span><a href="http://www.mangotomato.com/2012/02/mexican-mac-cheese-recipe-for-wisconsin.html"></a>)<br /><p><strong>What you need:<br /></strong></p> <p>2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded</p><p>2 cups dry noodles (I used wacky-mac spirals but small pasta will do)<br /></p> <p>1/2 cup onion, chopped</p> <p>1/2 cup green pepper, chopped</p> <p>1/2 cup red pepper, chopped</p> <p>1/2 cup corn (I used frozen and did not thaw)<br /></p> <p>3 garlic cloves, minced</p> <p>1 tablespoon olive oil</p> <p>1/2 tablespoon cumin</p> <p>1 teaspoon chili powder</p> <p>pinch of cayenne pepper</p> <p>1 tablespoon butter</p> <p>1 tablespoon flour</p> <p>2 cups milk</p> <p>1 cup grated mexican cheese</p> <p>1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese</p> <p>1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese</p> <p>crushed tortilla chips<br /></p> <p>salt and pepper</p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;">What to do:</span><br /></p> <p>Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br /></p><p>Prepare pasta water, bring to a boil, and cook noodles. When the noodles are done, drain and add to the chicken/vegetable medley that you will prepare next.<br /></p> <p>While noodles are cooking, heat a skillet on medium heat and add olive oil. Add onions and peppers and saute until soft, about 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and corn and cook for another minute. Add shredded chicken and seasoning. Turn heat down to low.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxxscvGH5mvwnOhtIKyWzrS2cRanvdUDZBdjZss2I8dx3eYVnLvXW1Kkc7SUx34i_RFVTJcqULoO-ank_i82lAneGoOedXqGSrpH8HzTtuTaePOHT83KAwMtl8ClbnGgS1AKPTeBUP44/s1600/IMG_0183.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxxscvGH5mvwnOhtIKyWzrS2cRanvdUDZBdjZss2I8dx3eYVnLvXW1Kkc7SUx34i_RFVTJcqULoO-ank_i82lAneGoOedXqGSrpH8HzTtuTaePOHT83KAwMtl8ClbnGgS1AKPTeBUP44/s320/IMG_0183.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716218663202723106" border="0" /></a><br /></p> <p>Heat a small saucepan on medium heat and add butter. Once butter is sizzling, add flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook flour mixture for about 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously. Add milk and turn heat down medium-low. Add cheeses and stir, allowing cheese to melt and and sauce to thicken. Once sauce is thick, add it to the chicken and pasta and mix to combine.</p> <p>Spray 8.5 x 11 pan with PAM and add mac and cheese. Top with crumbled tortilla chips.</p><p>Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.<br /></p>Sybil and Adamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756522706450053672noreply@blogger.com1