Leading a Quiet Life

Solomon's Puzzle by Loris Nebbia

2011-09-29T14:51:00.002-04:00

Solomon's Puzzle by Loris Nebbia

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I read this for my book club...doubt I would read it again as it was very long and felt very tedious for me. We had mixed reviews in our club. Some liked it, some had issues with the storyline (I did - too many rabbit trails and unanswered questions!).

The story did draw you in at first. School boy (Ben) is being abused by his dad (Max) and the question of Ben's parentage is a mystery. Is Max the real dad or is it Tom, someone who knew Max and his wife around the time Ben was born? While the reader knows who the real mom is, Ben doesn't find out until the end (sorry if that is a spoiler!). My biggest beef is that if Ben had been told the truth from the beginning, instead of the adults all waiting for him to guess his true parentage, it would have alleviated a lot of the pain this kid went through...and a lot of the text of the book!

I had a hard time relating to any of the characters. Certainly not either Max or Tom nor the wives, Donna and Mrs. McBride (who came across as a more perfect image of Martha Stewart than Ms. Stewart herself - I had to remind myself that this was fiction!). Maybe to the teens - Joe the goof-ball, Ben the serious one or Bonnie Jean, near perfect herself.

One good thing about the book, if you are local, you could really picture much of the scenery as you were reading.

Might make a good beach read for someone but it was definitely not a favorite!

View all my reviews

Book Review - Same Kind of Different as Me

2011-06-10T12:35:00.003-04:00

"Same Kind of Different as Me" by Denver Moore and Ron Hall is the study of two very different men, from two very different worlds who are brought together - rather begrudingly - because a woman wouldn't let either of them go. As I read this book, I realized how truly ignorant I was to American History. I am sorry to say I did not realize sharecropping was a part of our country after the Civil War ended. This book was such a stark depiction of modern day slavery. But it is also the story of love, forgiveness, grace, determination and how, if you truly believe in someone and the power of the human spirit, anything is possible. I absolutely loved this story - so much in fact that it was my top pick of the 40+ books I read in 2010.

Many thanks to the Book Sneeze team for providing me with a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Book Review - The Butterfly Effect

2011-06-10T12:31:00.002-04:00

The Book Sneeze Team sent me a copy of The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews some time ago. Andrews is part of the Women of Faith tour and a wonderful motivational speaker. This gift book shares the tale of how the flap of a butterfly's wings can alter happenings on the other side of the world. You never know what kind of difference you can make by your actions - all of history could be changed! This is a beautifully illustrated book and would make a lovely graduation gift.

The opinions in this review are entirely my own. Other than the free copy of the book, I was not compensated in any way for my review.

Book Review ~ Pursuit of Justice

2010-11-15T10:37:00.003-05:00

Fall has been exceptionally busy here at the Quiet House but I've been trying to catch snip-its of time to read. Tyndale sent me a copy of this book and I have to admit it is completely out of the genre I generally read. I'm not a big fan of mystery novels - Christian or otherwise - and I tend to shy away from them. I'm glad I received this book though because I really enjoyed it!

Author DiAnn Mills crafted this story, the third in a series, about Special Agent Bella Jordan who is assigned a murder case in Texas. We learn about Bella's past and how it intersects with the main male character, Carr Richardson. I enjoyed that Carr was a believer of Christ. I didn't really expect this - I think that stems from the genre's I tend to stick with. This book was action packed from the get go and kept me guessing the whole way through. I enjoyed the well-written dialog and the story was easy to follow. I'm sorry I missed out on Ms. Mills earlier works and I'll have to jaunt over to the library to check them out.

If you enjoy a good mystery, action with a little romance - and stories of God's grace and redemption - you will enjoy this book.

Many thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book to enjoy. My review is completely my own opinion and other than the free copy of the book, I was not paid to write this post.

"The Busy Mom's Guide to a Happy, Organized Home" - A Review

2010-08-10T08:17:00.001-04:00

I recently had the privilege to read "The Busy Mom's Guide to a Happy, Organized Home" by Kathy Peel, who bills herself as America's Family Manager. A catchy title to bestow on oneself.

I have to admit that I skimmed through most of this book as I really didn't find any new (well, new to me!), useful information in the first few chapters that I did read. The chapters are broken down into: Managing Your Time, Managing Your Home, Managing Menus and Meals, Managing Relationships, Managing Your Finances, Managing Special Events and Managing Yourself.

Within each chapter you will find ideas and tips to make each area of your home run more efficiently thus giving you a happy and organized home. This would be a great book for a new homemaker who may feel lost in how to run their home. I have to admit this would have been a perfect gift for me when I got married twenty years ago. Learning something new is always a bonus - but I don't feel like I learned anything new from this book. I've read a lot of books on how to organize my home...it's implementing that knowledge that is where I could use the most help! Hubs would probably agree as clutter control seems to be one of my major issues!

A good how-to reference book for beginner's.

Many thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review. Opinions in this post are solely my own.

Menu Plan Monday ~ August 9 - 15

2010-08-09T08:24:00.006-04:00

Another week, another menu!

Monday ~ Fire Island Ziti

Tuesday ~ Kid's Create - Hubby and I attend Financial Peace University so I let the kiddoes fend for themselves

Wednesday ~ Haystacks Over Rice - a recipe that sounds fun and looks good!

Thursday ~ Salmon Patties, Peas and Buttered Noodles

Friday ~ Steak Subs and Salad

Saturday ~ My Birthday! Grilled Steak, Shrimp, Baked Potatoes and Salad

Sunday ~ BBQ Ribs, Macaroni Salad and Baked Beans

Menu Plan Monday ~ August 2 - 8

2010-08-02T15:40:00.006-04:00

Wow - it's been awhile since I've done one of these posts. I'm trying to be more intentional about posting as I continue to figure this blog thing out. I sure do enjoy reading all the other great blogs out there but I'm still not sure there is a niche for mine. Anyway, we have a pretty simple, quiet week at the homestead before we get back into life in the fast lane. Here's what we're eating:

Monday ~ Grilled chicken quarters, grilled zucchini and roasted red potatoes

Tuesday ~ Hubs and I attend our FPU class where we have dinner with our group; kiddoes are having quesadillas and chips and salsa. I know, it's not very healthy. Here's to hoping they top those quesadillas with avocado and chopped tomato...doubtful but I can hope!

Wednesday ~ Cincinnati Chili and cornbread

Thursday ~ Grilled Salmon, more grilled zucchini and brown rice

Friday ~ Hubs and I are headed to a crab feast for a free date night; kiddoes are dining on...I don't know yet - maybe leftovers!

Saturday ~ Youngest child turns 13! It will be his choice for dinner but I believe he is leaning toward burgers on the grill and corn on the cob

Sunday ~ BBQ ribs, baked beans and macaroni salad

Sorry no recipes to share. Like I said it's a simple week here! Find more great menus over at Menu Plan Monday courtesy of I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Review ~ Friendship for GrownUps

2010-07-06T12:59:00.003-04:00

Book Sneeze (Thomas Nelson Publishers) recently provided me with a copy of "Friendship for Grown-Ups" by Lisa Whelchel. I really enjoyed this book. Actually, I've enjoyed just about everything written by Lisa Whelchel! I also enjoy her on the Women of Faith tour - but that is a topic for another day! The author shared her struggles with making and keeping friends - not just acquaintances but friends who will there for you through all of life's challenges and joys. I loved the practical applications on how to be intentional with your friendships. An author who can share with me the where's, why's and how-to's, plus share her journey, is someone I want to continue to read and be mentored by (in the relative sense - I do not know Ms. Whelchel, although I believe we could be great friends if ever given the opportunity - which is slim). Her strong faith in Jesus and willingness to bare her soul before all of us is one of the reasons I enjoy reading her books. I recommend "Friendship for GrownUps" to anyone who is looking to be intentional with their friends. Thanks again to Book Sneeze for sending me this copy.

Tithing...Test Me in This ~ A Review

2010-04-07T19:42:00.004-04:00

I was recently provided a copy of "Tithing...test Me in This", written by Douglas LeBlanc, by Booksneeze (from Thomas Nelson Publishers). First, let me say that my husband and I are committed tithers, so I was a little interested to read stories of others who also tithed and see the work that God was doing in their lives. The book included nice little vignettes of people of varying religions and the reasons why they tithe. It was encouraging, and motivating, to read these stories. This book was written as part of an Episcopalian Ancient Practices series. I have to admit that I had no idea what "Ancient Practices" were. I would recommend this book if you were struggling about your decision to tithe. Mr. LeBlanc does give scripture reference to back up the principle of tithing, which I appreciated. All in all, I did enjoy the book but I'm not sure I would have purchased it had I been perusing the bookstore shelves simply because it leaned more toward one religion.

The opinions in this post are 100% mine. I was provided a copy of the reviewed book from Thomas Nelson Publishers under the agreement that I would give an honest review.

Menu Monday for the week of 3/22

2010-03-22T16:18:00.004-04:00

Another week ~ another menu! Hubby is away this week so my meals will be kid friendly and apparently not so good on my budget!

Monday ~ French Bread pizza and salad. Found a good deal today on an about to be expired loaf of french bread so a quick and easy meal. My original plan was leftover corned beef and cabbage (the kids weren't real keen on that!). Looks like that will go in the freezer.

Tuesday ~ BBQ'd turkey cutlets, buttered noodles and green beans.

Wednesday ~ Take-out pizza. Yep, pizza again! I have a meeting to go to and my son has been asking for "real" pizza.

Thursday ~ Scout night. Sandwiches or leftovers.

Friday ~ My son is headed to a laser tag birthday party right when I get home from work so that means the girls and I have to either grab something quick or go someplace while we wait for him to get finished. We will probably go out.

Saturday ~ Steak, baked potatoes and broccoli.

Sunday ~ Chicken-etti and salad.

See what others are cooking this week by visiting Menu Plan Monday .

Menu Plan for 3/15 to 3/21

2010-03-14T20:03:00.008-04:00

Here is this week's menu:

Monday ~ Daughter #2 turns 14! Her dinner of choice is roast chicken, buttered bowtie noodles, gravy, green beans, biscuits and leftover ice cream cake (we had a family dinner on Saturday). Simplicity at its best!

Tuesday ~ Spinach, mushroom, swiss cheese omelets, toast and fruit.

Wednesday ~ St. Patty's Day! Corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, turnips, bread.

Thursday ~ Pumpkin Pasta and peas.

Friday ~ Dinner Salad Nite. I take a large serving bowl and fill it with chopped lettuce then put out bowls of a variety of salad toppings - shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, diced green peppers, chopped hard boiled eggs, beans, basically whatever I have handy. To get everyone to eat healthier, I've tried to incorporate this meal in at least once a week.

Saturday ~ Dinner Out! I have an all day scouting event and will be a little brain frazzled by dinnertime.

Sunday ~ Spaghetti, salad, garlic bread.

See what others are cooking this week by visiting Menu Plan Monday .

Still Plugging Along

2010-03-10T22:15:00.002-05:00

I'm still here - hanging on by a thread and lots of prayer! Our family has had its share of illnesses, birthday celebrations (how did my oldest child turn 16 so quickly?), work, service projects and so on and so forth. I've been able to do a bit of reading and hope to jump back into some of the challenges that I was very excited about in the fall.

Still trying to figure out where I want this blog to go. There are so many great blogs out there and I enjoy them all immensely. Who wants to reinvent the wheel?

Help for Haiti

2010-01-15T11:25:00.009-05:00

Like many of you, I've been watching the news coverage and my heart is just breaking for the people in Haiti. I've also been wondering what I could do to help? The obvious is to pray - fervently and without ceasing. Secondly, I can give. Even if it is a little bit - a little bit put together with everyone else's little bit will go a long way to helping. My husband and I will be prayerfully considering where to give our donation and I ask that you do same.

Crystal over at Money Saving Mom is hosting a "Help for Haiti" project at her blog. Please go and check it out. If you are a blogger, please link up with her as I've done on this post. For every blog link, she is donating $10 to Compassion International .

Toni at The Happy Housewife is donating $1 for every comment to her church's relief fund.

And, at Frugal Hacks today, Deputy Headmistress who blogs at The Common Room gives ideas on how you can help even when you don't think you have any extra money to give. There are some great ideas and reminders that it doesn't matter how much you have, or don't have in your bank account, you can still give something.

While I don't have the readership to sponsor donations like Crystal and Toni, there is something I can do. I have a few books sitting on my shelf that I've been wanting to list on ebay. Maybe now would be a good time to do so and then donate my profits. Something little but in the long run, something beneficial and big.

There are many, many more bloggers out there doing their part to help those who are hurting. What are you doing?

Take Your Best Shot ~ A Review

2010-01-12T16:23:00.008-05:00

Recently I had the opportunity, courtesy of Thomas Nelson publishers, to read the encouraging book "Take Your Best Shot" by Austin Gutwein. I enjoyed that it was a light, quick read and when I was finished, I passed it on to my teenage daughter for her to enjoy. Young Austin saw a need and set out to fill it with the help of God and his family. He started Hoops for Hope to raise not only money but awareness of the plight of AIDS orphans in Africa. Just as important as that was in itself, it is also important to realize that Austin answered God's calling on his life even though he had to step out of his comfort zone to do so. What we could all accomplish if we would do the same? This is a great book for teens, and adults too, who need to be reminded that listening to God will make it possible for great things to happen.

(Thomas Nelson Publishers sends me books to review on my blog via the Book Sneeze program. For more information, please go to: Book Sneeze .).

Menu Plan Monday 11.16.09

2009-11-15T15:11:00.005-05:00

It's been a while since I posted and I want to get back in the mix. We have another busy week with activities four out of seven nights! Still trying to find that quiet life...

Monday - BBQ chicken thighs, oven roasted potates, broccoli

Tuesday - Crockpot beef stew - no real recipe, just dump beef stew meat, cubed potatoes, chopped carrots, onion, garlic, tomatoes and spices (whatever you like) in the crockpot and turn it on. Serve with butter bread or rolls.

Wednesday - Mom and Dad are having dinner out (a little late for our first Friday date night!); kids are having leftovers or whatever they can scrounge

Thursday - Grilled cheese and tomato soup

Friday - Salmon Turnovers and salad

Saturday - Breakfast for dinner - pancakes and sausage patties.

Sunday - Baked Spaghetti , garlic bread and salad.

See what others are cooking this week by visiting Menu Plan Monday .

What's On Your Nightstand - October

2009-10-27T14:59:00.009-04:00

This is my first time participating in the What's On Your Nightstand? meme at 5 Minutes for Books. I love their blog - I'm always checking it for new books to add to my "To Be Read" pile - which keeps growing! A few of the books on my first list below were recommended by 5 Minutes for Books.

Alas, I didn't get much housework done this month but I did get some books read! The dreary, wet fall days we are having in Maryland are just perfect for cozying up with a good book and warm drink. I'm looking forward to November, December and January so I can do a lot more reading. Oh wait....Christmas is coming and I need to buy presents for the children, decorate the house, bake and so on and so forth. Oh, well, I'll fit it in somewhere!

Here's what I read this month:

1. Dawn's Prelude by Tracie Peterson. This was an okay read. I loved reading about the Alaskan frontier but I had a hard time connecting with the main character. I think I felt that she spent too much time feeling sorry for herself. When I read a book, I like to think about which character I'd be if I could jump in the story. Lydia, the main character, was not my first choice. I rather pictured myself as her aunt - yikes, whose name I can't recall. I need to start journaling when I read so I have better notes for these posts! I've read other books by Ms. Peterson and I have to say this was not one of my favorites. This is the first in the Song of Alaska series and I do want to read the second book Morning's Refrain when it is available at my library.

2. The Scarlet Thread by Francine Rivers. This is the second time I've read this story of Sierra and Alex. I had to re-read it for my book club which meets in November. I enjoyed the book so much more the second time around. Francine Rivers is a master story teller and I enjoy how she weaves a Bible story into her fictitious retelling.

3. The Noticer by Andy Andrews. This was the first time I read anything by Andy Andrews and I enjoyed this story of an apparent vagrant who helps the people in a small town notice what's around them and change their perspective. Very subtle story-telling. For some reason, I thought Mr. Andrews was a comedian from the '80's. I'll need to research that a little bit more. Anyway, I wouldn't mind reading other books of his.

4. First Things First by Kurt and Brenda Warner. I enjoyed reading this book and learning how the Warner's teach their children to love others first. Brenda Warner was very candid about sharing her heart and struggles as a Mom and Kurt Warner appears to be a very hands-on Dad. They are raising their children to know the Lord and to be in the world, not of it. The only thing I did not like was how Brenda's attitude came across sometimes. She seemed very flip about the fact that they had money, maids, nannies and she was able to jaunt off with her girlfriends often. That's great that they have the money - and they give generously - but I felt like she was putting it in my face. Just my opinion. I did enjoy this book and it gave me a lot to think about concerning my three teens.

So what's left on my nightstand? Just a few hundred books yet...well, they are really on my dresser, my jewelry armoire, the bookshelf in the hallway, my desk and so on. But here are a few that I plan to read next:

1. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. This is my current read. Oh. My. Goodness. Is this book good!!! My boss recommended this to me and I can't put it down. A little hard to read in some parts just because it is so raw and open but definitely a page turner. Again, Ms. Rivers took a Bible story and meshed it into the 19th century frontier. This is by far the best book I have read in a very long time!

2. Family Driven Faith by Voddie Bauchum. I've heard nothing but praise regarding this book so I ordered it off of Ebay and will be reading it next.

3. Wednesday Letters by Jason F. Wright. This has been on my shelf for a while so it's time to dust it off and give it a spin.

That's it for now. I don't want to get too ambitious with what I plan to read because you never know what's in store for me next month!

What are you reading? Head over to 5 Minutes for Books to see what others are reading.

My Lack of Posts

2009-10-16T11:13:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I'm still trying to figure out exactly what I want this blog to be. Do I want frugal living, simple living, cooking, reading, my life? What?

Frugal, simple living is my favorite thing to research, read and talk about but I'm not sure if what I have to say is any "different" than some of the other great blogs that are out there. I do love to read but my interests are too varied to just have this be a blog about books...plus there are some great blogs already out there about that too!

Anywhoo, please bear with me as I try to get my feet planted somewhere in this blogosphere!

Extreme Food Makeover, Part 1

2009-10-12T22:11:00.014-04:00

Maybe this post should be titled "How to Feed Your Teens Cheaply, Yet Nutritiously, on a Budget While Trying to Lose Some Weight"! I'll be sharing over the next few days how I'm trying feed my family on the cheap while keeping it healthy and fun.

I have three teenagers. Well, my youngest is 12 and a boy. A boy who eats...a lot...and is never full. My girls don't seem to have hollow legs but they do eat. We also struggle with our weight...all five of us. Those that know me in real life know that I have fought this battle my entire adult life and the bad eating habits that I have are being picked up by my kids. The mom guilt I carry because of that is weighing heavy on my heart when my son tells me the kids at school pick on him. Enter more mom guilt because if I'd known about homeschooling 10 years ago when my oldest started kindergarten they would not have entered public schools and the teasing might not be happening. But that is another story and it is also something I need to let go of.

So, I've recently made it my mission to work on our diet. And, I'm not calling it a diet per se, I'm calling it an extreme food makeover....a covert extreme food makeover because the three deputies (children) haven't been apprised of the situation. The sheriff (hubby) and jail-keeper (me) are in on the plan.

My first mission was to get rid of most of the junk food. Junk food to me means chips, cookies, soda and such. Not that there is anything wrong with this food...well, there is and I know there is but we don't need to be eating so much of it. But let me be completely honest here that I LOVE soda. Remember that weight problem...free flowing soda in college started a downward spiral and it's been a hard habit to try and break. I've stopped buying it and am now at the point where I can walk right past it in the grocery store without even putting a two liter in the cart. I also find all this junk food to be a comfort food for me - something I'm sure my kids see and are copying from me.

Junk food can also blow your budget and in this economy where I have to make every penny count, we need to spend our money wisely and get the most bang for our buck. So as it's been eaten, I'm trying not to replace it. The only item I purchase out of the chip aisle in the grocery store are pretzels and popcorn kernels for popcorn.

Because I'm the mom and I had to set the tone, it is up to me to make the changes. I do all of the grocery shopping and meal prep at our home. And, I absolutely LOVE doing all that....and my family enjoys all the fruits of my labor! I am replacing the snacks and goodies with food that is healthy, inexpensive and that they will eat. Each of my children has different food quirks - one likes this, one likes that, two won't even touch those and one will eat whatever is put before him. They all would snack all day if I would allow it but I find that if they are busy then they are not bored and digging through the pantry. We generally only allow snacks after school and maybe in the evening (such as popcorn with our movie night).

Some ideas of things my kids WILL eat:
Carrots and celery sticks
Sliced cucumbers
Grapes
Berries
Sliced apples with peanut butter
Clementines
Popcorn ~ not microwaved but fresh popped
Bananas
Muffins - made with pureed and whole fruits (applesauce, bananas, blueberries)

This is just a partial list. What do you feed your kids for snacks? If you have teens, how are you filling them up?

Coming next ~ fueling them up for the day!

Menu Plan Monday - 10.12.09

2009-10-12T21:43:00.004-04:00

Well, better late than never. Here's our plan for the week ~ simple, quick and easy! I cooked big batches of chicken noodle soup and spaghetti sauce over the weekend so we have plenty of leftovers for this week.

Monday ~ Leftover chicken noodle soup and rolls.

Tuesday ~ Tilapia and broccoli,rice and cheese casserole. After doing a search for casserole recipes, I've come to the conclusion that cooking up a few cups of rice and mixing in a few cups of cooked broccoli and a homemade white sauce with cheese will be what I'm looking for.

Wednesday ~ Leftover spaghetti, salad.

Thursday ~ Tuna salad sandwiches, pickles, celery and carrots. Scout night.

Friday ~ All three kids are going in different directions so I think hubby and I will get another date night! Yippee!

Saturday ~ Pepper steak and rice. I will post the recipe soon.

Sunday ~ Pork roast, saurkraut, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls.

Head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more tasty menus and ideas.

Guess What? Christmas is 12 Weeks Away!!

2009-10-06T08:00:00.001-04:00

Yes, you read that right ~ 12 weeks! Yikes! Where did this year go? I am in no way ready for Christmas...well, that's not true. I did redeem some of my points on Mypoints for a gift card for one of my daughter's but that's all I've done. Now is the time to start planning if you haven't already.

My goal for this year is to simplify our holidays even more. We've scaled back the gifts - my kids were getting a ton of useless stuff and generally by March is was either in the trash or the Goodwill pile. So, this year I asked for a list of 5 things they really, really wanted. We'll see what I get.

I'll also begin planning my menus for Thanksgiving and Christmas as well as make a list of what I want to bake. I have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and then do buffet meals for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Because I plan early, I can watch for sales and stock up on my ingredients early. If I purchase smartly, I can have my pantry stocked well into the new year.

We'll also scale back our decorating this year because we have a puppy and he loves to chew. Nothing is safe! There won't be as many "things" sitting around which will free up some of my time. Still not sure if this is a good thing or not since I love the "look" of the holiday but I also need to remind myself that it is not about the decorating, baking, gift giving - it's about spending precious time with my family and enjoying the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our Savior.

Here's a great 12 week plan to help you prepare for Christmas from Simple Mom.

Menu Plan Monday - Week of 10.5.09

2009-10-05T06:52:00.000-04:00

Another week - another plan! We did pretty well with our menu last week. Saturday was a jam-packed day so we didn't get to have the King Ranch Chicken Casserole so we'll try again on Monday. Monday is my day off so I have a little more time to prepare a more in depth meal. Hubby is away for several days this week so it will be more teen friendly fare!

Monday ~ King Ranch Chicken Casserole and salad. I found the recipe online that is actually in my 2008 Southern Living Cookbook. I don't plan on using a whole chicken as instructed in the recipe since I have several chicken breasts in the freezer so I'll use those instead. I adapt recipes all the time to use what I have on hand.

Tuesday ~ Pizza...from a local delivery. Not budget friendly but I have a scout meeting for leaders that I need to lead and only 45 minutes turn around time from getting home from work and leaving. Plus, the pizza shop is next door to the church so I can order before quitting time and pick it up when I head home. Leftovers can be used for lunches...well, if there is any leftover!

Wednesday ~ Uptown Blues Wraps with celery and carrot sticks. This recipe sounds yummy but I think I will adapt it by cooking a beef roast in the crockpot the night before, shredding it and mixing in bottled bbq sauce. I'll also leave out the red peppers because no one will eat them and maybe add a sliced tomato! My daughter can prepare the rice in the rice cooker when she gets home from school to help with prep since it's teen Bible study night and we need to get back out the door.

Thursday ~ Leftovers - it's a scout meeting night.

Friday ~ Broiled tilapia, cheese potatoes, green beans. This is the one fish all of my kids like.

Saturday ~ Chicken and noodles. This is a recipe I threw together one day and it became a 5 star in our house (that means everyone liked it!). I will cook off a whole chicken today since I'll have time - plus add celery, carrots, seasonings and a few chicken carcasses I have in the freezer - strain the broth and debone the chicken. Put the broth and meat in a soup pot, add peas (canned, frozen or leftover - whatever is handy), salt, pepper and thyme. If I have any leftover gravy, I'll toss it in too. I've added that before but no gravy on the plans for this week. This is also a good after Thanksgiving meal - use up the rest of the turkey and gravy and make your broth from the turkey carcass. Bring to a boil and add a bag of egg noodles. Cook until noodles are done. Serve with crusty rolls. Tonight is homecoming at the high school so we need something I can cook early in the day and then serve as we are getting my daughter ready to go.

Sunday ~ Spaghetti with ground venison, salad and garlic bread. Plan is to make the sauce on Saturday since it always tastes better after it has sat for a day.

What are you cooking this week?

Visit I'm an Organizing Junkie for other great menu plans.

RedBox Codes!

2009-10-02T12:56:00.003-04:00

Here are a few new redbox codes for the weekend~

Use codes: KRJX6M3, RXGVGMV

9H2VEE27 (this code is valid at Hy-Vee locations only)

DVDATWAG (This code is valid at Walgreens locations only)

You can go here to find a redbox location near you and check movie selections.

Tonight is date night for hubby and me so this will be a nice freebie treat for the kids while we're out.

Frugal Friday - Finding Cheap Reads

2009-10-02T10:31:00.005-04:00

I am a book collector. It seems that I collect books quicker than I can read them and my "to read" pile is always overflowing. And, since I also happen to be a "piler" my books are piled high on every flat surface throughout the house - well, not every flat surface but my husband would say very definitely most of them! So where do I find these books? As I tend to lead a more frugal lifestyle ~ or I attempt to! ~ I make it a goal to find my books as cheaply as possible. Here are a few suggestions:

1. I am very blessed to be employed at my church and we have a huge library of donated books - everything from fiction to non-fiction to dvd's and cd's of sermons. I borrow and bring back - plus donate my own as I finish with them (I rarely keep books after I've read them). Part of my duties as an employee are to keep the library tidy and organized. What a great job I have! The glory of this is I don't even have to go anywhere out of my way to pick up my books! Have you checked to see if your church has a lending library?

2. Of course, the public library is a fantastic free source for books, movies and cd's. I pass our library every day when I go to and from work. As I learn of new books I want to read, I check the online catalog and place a request. I have to be careful of overdue fees because even though I drive by the library daily, I tend to be in a hurry to get home and will forget to stop!

3. Your local thrift store. I am a big thrift store shopper and in the past I've often purchased many of my books from the Salvation Army, Goodwill or Value Village. The downside is they are usually not current bestsellers, which doesn't bother me since I tend to read based on what I'm interested in at the time, not what's current and popular. I have noticed that thrift store prices have gone up in the last year and the Salvation Army in our area is no longer offering Book Specials on Monday's and Thursday's. I still always look when I go in.

4. Charity sales. Several times a year in our county, there is a charity sale put on by the local Rotary club. Buyers bring a bag, or pick up a paper sack there, and you can fill it for a set fee. Costs go to help with costs to ship books to Africa. Now, I was very adept at packing my college dorm room items into my two door Chevette so I can get A LOT of books into my bag! I try to only attend this sale once a year because I do bring home so many books - like I said, I tend to be a book collector! My kids like to go too - I give them their own bag and then we pare down our piles, combining our choices into one bag - and we make a day of it. Lots of fun and a good cause.

5. Paperback Swap . I've not ventured into trying this yet but I've heard great things about the ease and inexpensiveness of using this site. I'll eventually get around to trying this but, like I said above, my "to read" pile is huge and I want to slow down on acquiring more books until I've read some of the stash I already have.

6. Let your friends and family know that you will gladly swap books with them or take their extras off their hands. My office mate is also an avid reader and we swap books all the time.

And, what to do with those books when you are done and don't want to keep them around? Bless another by donating them to someone else or another charitable organization.

See other great Frugal Friday tips at Life as Mom.

Pumpkin Curry Soup

2009-09-30T15:46:00.007-04:00

Now that fall appears to be here in Maryland this soup will be making an appearance on my table. It is quick and easy to prepare, is fairly frugal in price and lends itself well to the crockpot. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Curry Soup

2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 cup chopped onion (1 small)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
3 cups chicken broth
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk

1. Melt butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender. Stir in curry powder, salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add broth and pumpkin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in evaporated milk. Transfer mixture to food processor or blender (in batches, if necessary); cover. Blend until smooth. Serve warm.

Makes 6 servings.

(Adapted recipe and image from www.cooksrecipes.com).

Menu Plan for Week of 9.28.09

2009-09-28T08:30:00.001-04:00

Menu planning has to be one of the best organizational tools that I use. Being a working mom ~ and a busy working mom, like many of you (and, yes, you stay at home moms are working moms...you just get to stay in more comfortable clothes all day) ~ I sometimes need quick meals to get on the table so we can get back out the door to an activity. Some days, I'm not so busy in the evening and can prepare a meal that takes longer than 30 minutes from fridge to table. This week will be quick meal week ~ two scout events, teen Bible study, mom and dad's night out and a band outing....

Monday ~ Out - Kids do not have school today so we're off to do something fun and will have dinner out using one of the restaurant gift cards I have.

Tuesday ~ Taco Soup - recipe below - this is leftover from Sunday

Wednesday ~ Oven Baked Salmon Patties, Oven Roasted potatoes, peas

Thursday ~ Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup - I have to be back out the door 45 minutes after I get home from work for a Scout meeting!

Friday ~ Mom and Dad's night out! Kids are having ... I have no idea. I think we'll decide late that afternoon!

Saturday ~ King Ranch Chicken Casserole. I've been wanting to try this recipe for a while. If I cook the chicken before I leave for the school band outing, it should be easy to assemble when I get home. If I'm really on the ball that morning, I'll have it all ready to go in the oven when I get home!

Sunday ~ Grilled London Broil, Baked Potatoes and Salad

You can check out all the other great menus at I'm an Organizing Junkie for other great menu plans.

Here's the recipe for Taco Soup. One note - I cook with whatever I have on hand and don't generally follow recipes to a tee. I switch out the meat between cooked ground beef or turkey, chopped fresh chicken or beef (browned then put in the crockpot) or leftover meat. The great thing is that they all work and you don't feel like you are cooking the same meal often! The original recipe came from the Fix It and Forget It Cookbook.

1 package ranch dressing mix (like Hidden Valley)
1 package taco seasoning
1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes and green chiles
1 can tomato sauce (small can - after emptying, fill with water and add to pot)
1 can beef broth (or chicken broth if you use chicken or turkey)
2 cups of meat (see above - this time I used browned, ground beef with 1/2 a small onion mixed in)

If you like your soup with more broth, add 2 cups of water and 2 beef or chicken bouillon cubes. Leave this out, if you like a soup that is thicker and more chili like. I prefer more broth and added this - this is not in the original recipe.

Add all above ingredients to the crockpot and set on low. Cook 4-6 hours. Ladle into bowls and top with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream.

Then Sings My Soul Saturday - Perfect People

2009-09-26T08:00:00.003-04:00

I absolutely LOVE this song by Natalie Grant. Her words touch me deeply -

"There's no such thing as perfect people
There's no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are, broken and scarred
Lift up your heart and be amazed
And be changed by a perfect God"

Let go of the imperfections - or what you believe are your imperfections. Self-doubt is a demon on your shoulder. It will gnaw away at you until it no longer sits on your shoulder but lives in your heart and mind. I fight this demon daily - am I good enough? When is good enough, good enough? And, so on. Fling off the demons and surrender your heart to the One who made you perfect - broken and scarred but PERFECT. You are good enough.

Enjoy!

See more at Signs, Miracles and Wonders.

Free RedBox Movie

2009-09-25T14:36:00.005-04:00

I love all things free! I've never rented a redbox movie before even though I pass a McDonald's kiosk every day when I go to and from work. But I might try this free code tonight and pick up a good movie for our Family Friday Movie Night. Hubby has been wanting to see a certain movie so maybe I'll surprise him with that.

Here are the codes ~

* 9HB6MP22 – valid at all Redbox kiosks (many are located in grocery stores)
* SMR8DVD – valid only at McDonalds

To begin your transaction, be sure to select “purchase w/ coupon code” in the bottom of the screen so you will get it free!

(Thanks to Faithful Provisions)

What fun, free things do you do with your family?

Left to Tell by Immaculee Ilibagiza

2009-09-25T10:38:00.003-04:00

I recently read this book for my book club. It was an amazing story of a woman who lived through the Rwandan genocide of the early '90's. After reading Immaculee's story, I am ashamed to say that I had no idea these events even happened since at the time I was in the throes of being a newly wed and later a new mom. Not that that's any excuse for not knowing what was going on in the rest of the world but my world consisted of learning to cook decent meals, stretch a dollar and, later, take care of our babies!

This story is a testament of faith, hope, love and forgiveness. Immaculee showed pure faith and perseverance when everything around her was crumbling. She lived in a bathroom with 9 other women for three months with little food and limited conversation. I was most struck by her attitude of constant prayer and the ways in which God answered her prayers. It was very inspirational. How many of us wouldn't like to be in prayer for 24 hours a day - though under completely different circumstances, I'm sure!

There were several parts of this story that were difficult for me to read, particularly the details of her brother's death. But after reading that passage, I was so moved by how he went to his death sharing Jesus with his killers. Essentially, he was a martyr - could you do that? I don't even know if I could and I'm not sure I like that about myself.

A great read - I couldn't put it down once I started. You can read more about Immaculee's story and the foundation she has started to help the Rwandan orphans left behind at Left to Tell.

Frugal Friday - A Frugal Snack

2009-09-25T09:42:00.000-04:00

The most frugal snack around - short of fruit and veggies - has to be popcorn. When I was a kid, we had popcorn just about every Friday night while we watched our favorite Friday night lineup on CBS. My mom used our cast iron skillet and a lid. I have not been able to master a regular pot much less my cast iron so I use a whirly pop crank style pot. It is so easy and quick - last night we cranked out a bowl of popcorn in 5 minutes - that's from kernel to in the bowl, ready to eat!

I can buy a bag of popcorn kernels from the Wal-Mart SuperCenter for $1.49 a bag. Typically, I get 8-10 large bowls of popcorn from one bag - maybe more. I have to admit I am not the chief popcorn maker at my house. That title belongs to my hubby - he makes the best popcorn and is always willing to oblige!

One bowl will feed all 5 of us on our Friday Family Movie Night. Sometimes we make two bowls depending on what we had for dinner - I have teens, too, so they are always hungry!

Popcorn is generally very healthy until you add the toppings. We use a white cheddar seasoning I buy at Wal-Mart for $1.99 a jar - not cheap but it sure is yummy! Sometimes we'll have the popcorn with just butter and salt or butter and Old Bay (for the crab lovers!) or parmesan cheese and garlic salt. All are winners!

Check out Life as a Mom for other Frugal Friday ideas.

Michelle

Smithsonian Free Museum Day

2009-09-24T20:26:00.004-04:00

Here's a great family freebie for Saturday, September 26th. Many museums to choose from. Go here for all the details.

What is a Quiet Life?

2009-09-24T11:40:00.002-04:00

Before I get too involved in joining reading challenges and posting things that interest me, I thought I might go into what a quiet life means to me.

I am a busy working mom of three - two teens and a tween. We are very active in our church and with our local scouting organization. And, we always seem to have something that either needs done or we need to go do.

A year ago I went back to work after having been a stay at home mom for 14 years. This season of our life has been a challenge. I've had to figure out how to get everyone where they need to be, keep the house clean (haven't figured this one out yet!), get meals on the table, spend time with everyone, make sure homework gets done and the list goes on. I spent many days lamenting the fact that I was not more organized when I stayed home all day! The frenzied pace of the last year left me burnt out, disorganized and wondering where to turn next.

So, I turned where I thought best - I opened my Bible, drank in His word and prayed. I read how Jesus lived a simple life - he owned nothing but the clothes on his back and didn't worry about food, shelter or stuff. I read that it is better for us to store up treasures in heaven and not here on earth. I learned that, as Christians, we are supposed to live like Jesus. So, I began praying for ways to create simplicity in our life, for ways to alleviate the pressure I felt to be perfect in everything I was doing, for ways to give more - of myself and my earthly "treasures". And, slowly, in His time, the Lord answered my prayers. I have been able to delegate much of my scouting responsibilities to many other willing volunteers, my kids willingly stepped up to help with household chores (this was a huge answer to prayer in itself) and I let go of some of the "some day" projects that were never going to happen.

The next thing I did was start getting rid of stuff! How much stuff does one family need? We were holding onto things that we weren't using. My motto has become "let our useless stuff become someone else's useful blessing". I hope someone has been blessed by all the clothes I've taken to the GoodWill! This process is never ending and I'm far from having the house completely cleaned out but it's getting there. I'm hoping for a minimalist lifestyle but the movement has not taken root yet with the under 18 crowd in the house!

Then I tackled our calendar. I stopped filling in every square on the monthly grid. Do they all really need to have something written in them? I suppose it gives us a sense of purpose to have all of our days filled with something. I longed for blank boxes. So, I started scheduling regular Friday night family times - sad when you have to be sure to schedule time with your family! My sweet hubby and I have date night the first Friday of the month and the remaining Friday's are for all of us to be together. We enjoy making popcorn and watching a movie or playing board games. Now I'd like to say that the other six days are empty but that wouldn't be keeping it real. Some weeks are crazy and we're out every night. Some weeks we are home most evenings. This is a work in progress.

The quiet part? Well, when you live in a three bedroom rancher with three kids, a dog and a cat how quiet can it be? I'm trying! One day those three kids will be out on their own and maybe I'll long for the noise and chaos again, I'm not sure. For now, I want to enjoy them while they are home. After all, my ambition is to lead a quiet life...

Michelle

Blogs I Enjoy

2009-09-24T10:25:00.005-04:00

Here are a few blogs that I enjoy reading - most on a daily basis. They've all encouraged and taught me something in one way or another. If you haven't already visited them, please do.

Money Saving Mom - This blog is fantastic! It is the blog I go to for all the coupon deals and freebies I score plus it is full of great encouragement for Moms. Spend some time on this blog and read about Crystal's story. She and her husband are big Dave Ramsey followers and are saving up to pay cash for their home. I highly recommend this blog!

Money Saving Methods - Carrie teaches you how to make money through deals, couponing, etc.

The Happy Housewife - Toni is a military, homeschooling wife who shares lots of great ideas and she keeps it real. I love that about her - no fluff, no putting on airs - just reality. She is also local so some of the local freebies I can snag too!

Life as a Mom - Great recipes, more encouragement and information. Just like The Happy Housewife, this is another blog that keeps it real.

5 Minutes for Books - This is where I find most of the suggestions for books I want to read. My "to read" list is huge thanks to them! They have some fun giveaways too! And, yes, I have won from them - yay! More books!

The Yardsale Queen - Chris is so funny! I enjoy reading about all the stuff... I'm mean treasures...she finds while she yardsales. She is also fairly local to me and shares local deals too.

These are my favorites. Go take a peek and let me know what you think.

Michelle

Fall into Reading Challenge

2009-09-23T13:38:00.014-04:00

I thought I'd take part in this challenge since I have a few books I'd like to read and maybe this will help me be more accountable. Here's my list in no particular order:

Fiction:
1. The Scarlet Thread by Francine Rivers - reading it for the second time for my book club

2. Dawn's Prelude by Tracie Peterson

Non-Fiction:
1. Little House on the Freeway: Help for the Hurried Homeby Tim Kimmel - I bought this at a Family Life Weekend to Remember conference back in February where Tim Kimmel was the speaker. I highly recommend these conferences. They are a great opportunity for you and your hubby to spend time alone together and reconnect.

2. Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper. I've heard good things about how this book challenges you so I want to delve into it.

I may get a few more in but we'll see how it goes. What are you reading this fall?

Go to http://callapidderdays.com/2009/09/fall-into-reading-2009-time-to-start-reading.html to see what others in the blogosphere are reading.

Michelle

Welcome ....

2009-09-22T15:52:00.000-04:00

I've tried several times to begin this post and don't know where to take it. Maybe I should reconsider this blog idea! Anyway, welcome to my blog. This is going to be my space where I can write about all of the things that interest me and that might interest you too. Maybe not but I guess we'll see where that goes.

I came up with the title "Leading a Quiet Life" from I Thessalonians 4:11 "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands." I yearn for a quiet, simple life. I live a life of noise (three kids, dog, work...etc.) and constant activity. One of my favorite Bible verses is "Be still and know that I am God." Being still, with a book and cup of something, is what I desire. I relish those times even though they are few!

I am an avid reader and have given up most other pursuits (crafts and various other projects that would never hold my attention for very long) so that I can just read and spend time with my family. It's a shame that housework gets in the way! One of the things I will be doing here is posting reviews of the various books I read as well as joining in some of the great reading challenges that are out there. What do you like to read?

I am also a lover of all things bargain - free, cheap, you name it. As I'm able, I'll share the deals I find so that you can share in the thrill of the hunt too.

Other than my family and reading, one of my other passions is cooking. Cooking really should be a love language. My goal is to try one new recipe a week which I hope to share here with comments about what my family thought.

Hang onto your hats ~ it's bound to be a wild ride on the way to a quiet life! Enjoy!