Christmas is Coming....

Well, I decided that since it is rather a nice chilly night and I have not much to do, I should do a little blog post to my dear blog friends. :)
I hope everything is going well with y'all. I've been pretty busy myself... but it seems like Christmas is actually getting here. Of course, it has been coming, but it seems especially that the Christmas season began, for me. So, I shall tell you of a few things I've been up to lately:
Well, yesterday was quite funful. I went to my chorus practice at 10:15 to practice for a performance. We practiced until about 12:20 or so, and then we went out to Stevi B's with our chorus group. Then we went over to do our performance. We did pretty well, and sang some really fun songs! One was Canticle of Carols, which was a medley of several carols. Then we sang Still, Still, Still which is a very pretty, "flowy" song that is rather hymn-like. Then we had all of our fans (haha ;) sing some carols along with us, which is always my favorite part! Then we had some of the kids do individual performances. Then we did God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, which is so much fun. It is almost in a jivy tune... it sounds so funny! And then we sang Carol of the Bells acapella, which sounds really cool! So that was yesterday... very nice day, I must say.
Today has also seemed quite wintry. It has been in the 40s and 30s all day... unfortunately, it has rained instead of snowed. :( But all the same, my mom and I went to go see a performance of The Nutcracker today. It was really fun! I love all the color and the dancing and such. It was wonderful! After we did that, we shivered our way back out to the car, and went to Starbucks where we ordered a delicious doughnut and I got a Gingerbread Latte. A little to gingery, but still quite good. :) Then, on the way home, we had a nice conversation... I do love having random conversations with my mom! She is one of my best friends, because I can tell her basically everything. So yeah, I'm very thankful for my mom! <3 That was random, but yeah, I had to say it. :) Once we got home, I started a fire, and helped her make some chili and corn muffins. So tonight has been quite a nice night staying at home in the warmth of it all. <3
So, sorry for such a random post, but I thought I'd just tell y'all what has been going on.
Catch y'all later!

In Christ,
~Madison

Hello and Happy Thanksgiving!

Well.... this poor blog appears to be quite neglected and sad. So I suppose I should post something again. So first of all, as you can see, I'm still alive, even after these three months. :) Yeah, just thought I would let y'all know that, as that is pretty important... as for what has been going on with me, I've been very busy. I've had school, extra-curricular activities (lots of those, that take up a lot of time), chorus, piano, and about a billion other things. Seriously. Okay, maybe not, but I've had a lot to do! This year has been crazy busy, but I'm really enjoying it.
I don't even really know where to start, because ~so~ much has happened these last three months. I've been making so many new friends, doing so many new things, it is just really hard to catch up!
So, since I can't really catch up I'm so far behind, I guess I'll go ahead and say it:
Merry Thanksgiving to all, and to all a good night!
Or wait... that isn't right...
Ahem....
(sorry for my cheesy jokes, they are a family thing ;)
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! :)
I hope you all have a delightful Thanksgiving!
And there is indeed much to be thankful for. I think it funny how people think that you have to have so much for you to be thankful. You have to have the newest gadget, the coolest clothes, the most expensive accessories... we Americans are so obsessed with having a good "status." We have to be better than the neighbors. We get so caught up in that, we forget what we do have, and we forget to be thankful. I think we need to remember more often than Thanksgiving we always have something to be thankful for.
If you've had a hard year, sometimes you just want to push Thanksgiving aside and move on to the New Year and start everything fresh. Or maybe you're so bogged down you just want everything to end. I know that feeling. You are honestly not alone in that fight. Believe me, I used to think I was the only one struggling with this and that. Let me tell you that you are most definitely and most assuredly not the only one. And let me also encourage you by telling you that the hard times will end. And you're thinking, "No. It never will. It has been going on for such a long time. It never will. Ever. I don't believe. I can't believe you. It is impossible. It can't happen. It won't happen." Trust me it will. I can most assuredly tell you that I felt exactly that way a little over a year ago, and I can tell you that I thought the end of it would never come. It will. I can promise you that. You might even be going through something harder than what I went through, but I can tell you this: We've got a merciful Savior, and He loves you so much, and these times will end after a time. It is just something you're going through. It is a passing thing. Which brings me to my point: even in the hardest of times, we have something to be thankful for: Christ. Even when you've lost everything (and I mean everything: relationships, family, possessions, etc.), you still have Christ. He is always there, even if He seems distant. I know that feeling too. He feels like He is so far away. Reach out, He is there to listen to you always. I am thankful today for Christ Jesus who has saved my life!

Anyway, I hope that today you have one of the best Thanksgivings ever! Be sure to enjoy the day and all the food, but don't forget who provides the joy. :)
Happy Thanksgiving all!

In Christ,

~Madison

P.S. I'm going to try to post more than I have been. My most sincerest apologies to my regular readers for not having posted in so long!

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Week 26

Well, before I start... you've probably noticed that I have fixed my blog up a little bit. :) Taken some stuff off the sidebar, put up a new background, and I also have a new playlist. So, you can check all of that out. :) And also, I've put some polls up, so if you would please vote on those! Thanks!


For Today: August 23rd, 2009.

Outside my window: Just a tinge of autumn. :) A tad cooler weather, a tad bluer skies.... now we just must wait for the pretty autumn leaves. :)

I am thinking: That if autumn doesn't get here soon, I shall simply die. :P

I am thankful for: Long walks on brisk days. :D

I am wearing: My fave jeans and a white shirt that has green leaves on the front. :) Very pretty shirt. Like it.

I am reading: 16 books. :D Some of them are: Safely Home, The Return of the King, The Scarlet Letter, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers, and David Copperfield.

I am hoping: That autumn will be here soon. :)

I am creating: A blanket. :) Like a full size one. 'Tis gorgeous so far! <3

I am hearing: My brother walking around...

Around the house: Winston is under the bed... :P Spencer is still walking around... my mom and dad are probably in their room either taking their regular afternoon Sunday nap or talking... and so on... :)

One of my favorite things: Autumn!!!! :D (are you getting the feeling I'm totally obsessed with autumn? :P)

What I accomplished since last week: School, knitting, reading... and that's about it. :P

A few plans for the rest of the week: Lemme see... school, knitting, reading, and getting together with Macy on Friday, and then going shopping with her on Saturday!! :D


Soo... yep. That's all for today. :)
Have a great Sunday! God bless!

In Christ,
~Madison

Hello!

So... I guess y'all may have noticed I took like a month off from blogging. :P Yeah... sorry I haven't been on much. I have had the chance to... just never really thought about it.
Anyway, first, I thought I'd give y'all an update on my life... well, not much going on. But things are really about to pick up. I've started school back... oh joy. :P And this year I'm doing a *ton* of stuff: college level Latin, Mock Trial, chorus, and piano. Not to mention some other stuff I have about once a month, plus the activities going along with those, and so on... yeah. I'm super busy this year. Or I will be. 'Tis rather exciting though! :) I can't wait to get back in the "groove" of things (and I can't wait to see my chorus friends again!!! :D ). Anyway, yeah, that is basically my life right now.
Umm... * thinks * what else to tell y'all... oh yeah... just to amaze y'all... I'm reading 16 books right now. o.O Yeah, I'm serious. Kinda scary, no? :P Yep... but all the same, I am. Trying to finish most of them by October so I can start some "wintry" books by then (especially Dickens... Dickens has such a *wintry* air to his books, doncha think?) Oooh, yes, and I'm planning for a splendid autumn this year. :) I've made *so* many preparations for this fall... I can't wait for it to get here!! <3 style="font-style: italic;">beautiful leaves gusting from the trees.... 'tis my favorite thing. :) Soo... here are some of my plans for this autumn:

• On September 1st, put my autumn candles out (don't you just love candles? They're simply amazing...)
• Of course, like I said, pick out some "cozy winter" books to read. :)
• And the traditonal expedition to the pumpkin patch... with lots and lots of pictures!
• On the first day of autumn, go for a brisk walk... hope it's chilly enough for a jacket!
• Enjoy the delicious flavors of autumn Starbucks coffee.... ;-)
• Go shopping for delightful autumn clothes... (which Macy and I are doing some next Saturday, I hope!!)
• Hehe... this one is for Macy: Okay Macy. Sometime this autumn, we're going to go outside when you're over at my house, and we're going to take a billion pictures. Okay? Yes. We are. I shall drag you out there if need-be. :P But we *shall* do it. :D (such fun!!! I love autumn pictures!!)
  
• Sit outside many autumn mornings to feel the brisk air.
• Try to enjoy autumn at it's fullest! <3

Soo... yes! :) That is going to be my autumn, in general. Aaahhh... such wonderfulness! Soo... yes, that is what I'm planning on doing.
Okay, now, to finish my long boring post that no one really cares about (but is fun to post anyway! :D), I shall do something I found on a couple of girl's blogs. What you do is take your iPod, and set it on shuffle, and put the name of each song you get to answer the following questions. :) Fun! And since I have an iPod now... I can do it! Yea! (oh, by the way, OF COURSE, I don't believe these answers. They don't mean anything. This is just for fun)
Okay, so here it is:

If someone says "this is okay" you say: Snowbound.
Erm... what? :P

What would be describe your personality? : River.
Umm... very odd. :P Although that is one of my favorite songs... :)

What do you like in a guy/girl?: Wait and See.
Umm.... okay? o.O lol

What is your life's purpose?: Total Praise.
Oh yeah!! :D Love that answer! Oh, and by the way, of course, that praise goes to God. ;-)

What is your motto?: Hodie Christus Natus Est
I think that means "Today Christ is Born." I think. Don't quote me on that... kinda an odd motto though. lol

What do your friends think of you?: Fight Another Day.
Whoa... o.O That is like... totally what I hope my friends don't think of me. I think it would be kinda scary if they did....

What do you think about very often?: Walkin' My Baby Back Home.
Bahahaha!! :P No, I don't think about that very often. lol

What is 2+2?: Lights of Madrid.
Umm... okay?

What do you think of your best friend?: A Field of Flowers.
Hey, that's actually a pretty nice answer. :) Comforting like a field, pretty like the flowers, altogether pleasant... yes, works very nicely. :D

What do you think of the person you like?: Up Around the Bend
Wow... o.O Just wow.

What is your life story?: Last Call.
What?

What do you want to be when you grow up?: Untitled.
Hahahahaha! Love it!!! :P

What do you think when you see a person you like?: Finally Home.
Again: Wow. o.O Just wow.

What do your parents think of you?: Too Much Between Us
Hahaha!! :P Wow, I definitely hope not! But still... makes for a funny answer. But in reality, yeah, I hope that is not what they think. o.O

What will you dance at your wedding?: There is No God Beside You
Hmm... interesting. :)

What will they play at your funeral?: Timber
Umm.... okay... that seriously wouldn't fit a funeral. o.O WAY more fits a wedding.

What is your hobby/interests?: I'll Fly Away
Hahaha!! :P Wow... that is just too funny. lol

What's your biggest secret?: (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons
Hahahahahahahahahha!! * giggles insanely * Wow. That is like... I think the best answer so far. :P

What do you think of your friends?: Ballerina
Indeed? o.O

What's the worst thing that could happen?: Send For Me
Hehehe. :P Very nice. lol

How will you die? Aquarium
Haha. :P I'm going to in an aquarium? Very interesting... * cough * Ooh, I get it, a shark is going to bust through the glass and eat me. :P Interesting. :P

What's one thing you regret?: (did two) Deck the Halls; Sing, Sing, Sing
Hahaha, these two are funny. I regret hitting people I know... :P
Oh, and I guess I would regret singing.... or rather, everyone else would regret that I sang... xD I was *not* gifted with a lovely voice... unfortunately. lol

What makes you laugh? Love Story
Haha... actually, yes, I guess they do. :P I don't know... romance seems to be hilariously funny for some odd reason... :P

What makes you cry?: The Great Pumpkin Waltz
Haha, really? :P

Will you ever get married?: Final Day
Umm... okay? Does that mean I'll get married the day before I die or what? :P

What scares you the most?: In the Bleak Midwinter
That's not true!! I LOVE WINTER! <3 Besides... I love that song too. :P

Does anyone like you?: The Hand Song
Does that mean yes? :P Like someone wants to hold my hand? Oh how nice. :P * laughs *

If you could go back in time, what would you change?: If We are the Body
Hmm... interesting. :) Actually, that song makes a good answer. Not the actual title of the song, but the lyrics.

What hurts right now?: Listen Up
What? :P

What do you most often exclaim?: Trust You
Haha!! :P That is actually preetttyyy true... I don't exclaim it, but I do tend to trust most people...

Where is paradise?: Hold Fast
Umm... what?

What did you first say as a baby?: Peppermint Patty
Hehehehehehe... :P

If you had a pet, what would you name it?: East Kentucky Home
Hahaha. :P Very nice. Sounds like a horse's name...

What is your favorite sight to see?: Praise You With the Dance
Ooh, like this answer. :) Very good answer!

What makes you gag?: Boardgames
Sooo not true. :P I love boardgames!

What are you best at?: My Heart Will Fly
Too true... o.O

If you wrote a book, what would you call it?: On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand
Awww. :) I like that.

What did you wish for last?: The Solid Rock
Yes! :D I always wish for Him to be near me. :)

What would your superhero name be?: Your Love is Extravagant
Wow... o.O Kinda true though... :P

How soon will this be over?: Love
Hey, I like that! :D Since love never ends... that means this will never be over (whatever "this" is :P)

Where are you sitting?: Safe and Sound
Hmm... I like that. :)

What do you hate most?: Too Much Between Us
Okay, that answered another question, but I love how it answers this one! <3 Sooo true. :)

What do you love most?: About a Boy
Umm... what? o.O

What do you not care about?: Have You Ever Seen the Rain?
Haha, nice. :P

What is your secret name?: Lullaby
Heeey, that works really well!! :D People don't tend to see that I have a very soft and quiet side of myself... I never really show it, but it's there. :) That works really well!

What will you post this as?: For Freedom
Haha, no I won't. :P lol


Soo... yes. :)
And... I have to torture y'all some more. xD
Macy and I made up some questions the other day for ourselves, and did the same thing as what I did above. Here are some of the funniest answers:

What gets you down?
My answer: Santa Claus is Coming to Town
(don'tcha just love it?? :P)

What will your future be?
Macy's answer: He's a Pirate
(hehehehehehe!!)

Why are you happy?
My answer: Hey Stephen
(lol... this one made me laugh :P)

What do you hate most?
Macy's answer: Sailing with Russell
(this one is my favorite, hands down :P)

What are you?
My answer: A Cuckoo in the Woods
(hehehe, this is one of my favorites too)

How do you feel right now?
Macy's answer: Eureka!
My answer: Almost Too Serious
(love this combination here :P)

What's in your bag right now?
My answer: Consuming Fire
(hahahaha, that one made me laugh :P)

Where should you go now?
Macy's answer: To the Moon for All I Care!
(hahahahahahahaha! This one HAS to tie for first place. :P)

Hehe, so, yes.
Okay, I'm done now. I'll stop torturing you. I'm leaving...
Have a great day! :D God bless!

In Christ,
~Madison

P.S. Sorry for my crazily hyperactive post. o.O

Hopeless Romantic Tag

I found this tag on Cassie's blog.

What two qualities do you want most in your future husband?
Wow... just two? Christian goes without saying. So for the other two main ones: Funny/happy (like me :) and... this isn't exactly a quality, but to be a *real* man. You see so few of them these days... the kind who isn't afraid to smile, and also isn't afraid to cry... who is strong... that's kinda how I picture him. :)

Is there a fictional character you see as a model for your future husband?
Hmm... sort of. This may sound silly, but Sam from the LOTR seems to describe the kind of guy I like best... if that makes any sense. lol

Where do you want your wedding?
In a church, obviously. :) I'd like it to be either in the morning or afternoon (having it in the evening would seem depressing to me)... and I'd like it to be in the autumn, my fave season! For some reason, I prefer October... but yeah. I'm getting really off track here!

What are your views on courtship?
Exactly what I'm going for. ;-) Courtship is the best way for things to go.

What are your views on your first kiss?
Saving it for my wedding day. :) Got the idea from "Before You Meet Prince Charming". Thought it was great, and thankfully I hadn't kissed anyone before I read it, so I decided that was the way to go!

Do you have or want a purity ring/locket?
I desperately want one... but I don't have one. :(

Do you have or want a hope chest?
Yep! Although, like Cassie said, it is more for practical reasons. I'm trying to collect things for decorating, the kitchen, the living room, bedrooms, and for babies. :) And I like to make them if I can!

Will you wear a veil at your wedding?
Very likely, yes.

What kind of wedding dress do you want?
Wow... that is hard! I want it to be "flowy", but I don't want a train.... and I want it to be short sleeves... butterfly sleeves (odd on a wedding dress, I know, but I think they look sooo pretty!).... and I'm not sure exactly what else. But that's just kind of an idea...

What flowers do you want in your bouquet?
I have no clue. Never even thought about it. :P

What do you want to name one of your daughters?
Hmm.... I've always liked the name Aletta. :) You never hear it, and I think it is so pretty!

What do you want to name one of your sons?
Hmm... * thinks * I believe.... hmmm..... * thinks again *..... I like the name James a lot! But that is just an idea... there are some others I like... ooh, I know! I really like the name Jeremy. :)

Do you believe in the 'knight-in-shining-armor' view of courtship?
Sorta....

What music do you want to play at your wedding?
George Winston, all the way. :P Pachabel's Canon... I know, it's played way too much at weddings, but it is sooo pretty! I'm not sure what instruments I want playing all this stuff though... I like piano... although I really like violin too. Maybe both. :P No organ though. I like organ, but it seems kinda depressing at a wedding.... okay, wow, I'm really going off track here (again).

Are you a hopeless romantic?
In one word: Yes. :P Unfortunately. But yes, I am.

I tag anyone who wants to be tagged. :)

In Christ,
~Madison

My Life... in Mid and Late July, The Simple Woman's Daybook - Week 26

Well, I thought I'd just let y'all know what I've been doing lately, since I haven't really been posting this summer...
This has been a really awesome summer, with lots of things going on. And I must say that ever since I got back from camp, a lot has been going on. :P Well... lemme think about what all has happened...
Well, first, I think it is worthy to note that my awesome friend from camp, Tyler, set me up a website! :D Well, most of you probably know that I have a Bible blog. Well... 'tis no longer a blog! 'Tis a real website! :D Go check it out! Here is the link: They Will Soar on Wings Like Eagles. Soo... yeah, that was one of the exciting things that has gone on.
As for the garden, we got a pretty big harvest of beans the other night. :) Very exciting to grow things you can eat!

Don't they look so pretty? :)

This is me snapping the beans into a bowl...

Well, we also decided this week that it was time for the summer garden to go... which means most of the peppers, the beans... and what was left from the rotted squash. :P So we pulled all of it up yesterday... and we bought lots of seeds and plants to put in their place! :) Two crookneck squash, one zucchini, two cucumbers, and seeds for broccoli, cauliflower, pumpkins... oh yeah, and lettuce, swiss chard... and beets! :) So, yesterevening (my new word... lol), we went outside and put the new dirt on the garden...

Ah, the smell of soil! :) Oh, and yes, we did level it out by the way. lol
Then my dad left me to plant everything however I wanted to! So I planned it all out on paper... and it ends up that I had a lot more space than I thought I would, so I was able to plant quite a bit! It is awesome how much you can plant in a small amount of space! Also, I have a planter and some pots, so I can plant some lettuce, swiss chard, and beets in that.

Anyway, this is what it looks like:

The peppers and tomatoes were already there, which is why they are bigger than the other plants. :) And there is a lot of empty space because there was a lot of seeds to plant!

Oh, yes, and here is a video... :) Sorta tour of my garden. So y'all can finally hear what I sound like when I talk (oh joy... or rather, oh no :P ). lol Anyway, here it is! Now you'll have a sneak peek at where everything is:



Anyway... I must mention something else totally amazing... and rockin' awesome... and so crazy cool... :D
So, yesterday, my dad and I went out to buy the seeds and dirt for the garden. Afterwards, he said we were going to go into Walmart. I asked why, and he said to go get a coffee pot (*really* long story... won't go into it :P). So, we grab the coffee pot... and I think we're about to leave. Well, instead of going to the front of the store to check out, he starts heading to the back of the store, and I'm wondering what in the world we're doing. So I follow him back... and he goes to the place where they have all the cameras, video games, and other gadgets. ;-) Well, he goes over to look at the iPods, and I'm still wondering what on earth he is doing (although starting to just maaaybe wooonder.... ;-). Then he goes up to the counter (they have one back there), and he asked if someone could let him get something out of the case. So this lady goes back with us to the case, and he gets an iPod for himself (his old one died... so he had to get a new one). She's about to close it up, and my fantasy comes true... "Wait, no, I'd like to get one more." "You're gonna get one for ME???" I'm totally going crazy here. ;-) lol! So he asks me which color I want... and so now I have the most rockin' amazing blue Nano iPod there is! :D lol Here's a picture of it:

Whoo-hoo!! :D Pretty cool isn't it? Love the color! I already have 152 songs on it (which covers everything from Steven Curtis Chapman to Yo-Yo Ma). :P Although that is about all I'm putting up for now... although I'll put some more on eventually.
Soo... that's about all that has been up with me lately. Been having a really good summer!

Anyway, I suppose I shall do a Simple Woman's Daybook too...
For Today: July 26th, 2009.

Outside my window: Pretty sunnyiness... :) Patches of sunlight coming through the trees out onto the grass....

I am thinking: About my new iPod. :)

I am thankful for: Hrm.... tiredness. Makes you sleep well. ;-)

I am wearing: Jeans and a cute V-neck shirt with white, brown, green, and ivory leaves on in. :) JJill shirt...

I am reading: I can't remember. :P But the last thing I picked up was The Scarlet Letter... so that is one of the books I'm reading.

I am hoping: We can have pizza tonight!

I am creating: Well... I started a cross stitch project the other day...

I am hearing: The computer rumbling... and the dishwasher. Plus the typing of the keys... :P Nothing much else though... kinda quiet around the house. Usually is on Sunday afternoons.

Around the house: My mom is working on something in the library, and if I had to take a guess my brother is either reading or on the computer... and I think my dad is reading his new book about the middle ages, which he is really liking. And me? I'm just sitting here in front of the computer... as you can tell. ;-)

One of my favorite things: Quiet Sunday afternoons.

What I accomplished since last week: Planting my fall garden, reading some, playing the piano a tad... and a few other things.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Erm... not much. Actually, it is hard to say. We might be out of town for a couple of weeks, or we might be having a get together with some friends this weekend... and I'm not sure which. :P lol

Here is a picture:

This is a picture from camp. :) Prettiness! 'Twas early morning... this is a look out on the boating lake that we swam in and did some canoeing in... much fun!

Well, that is all for now! I hope y'all have a great day! God bless! :)

In Christ,
~Madison

P.S. Yes, I am eventually going to get the pictures from camp up on my private blog. ;-) I'll try to have them up within a week or two.

Back from Camp!

Well... I came back from camp... ALIVE! :P So, yeah, I'm still here... I've just been thinking about camp so much I haven't had a chance to blog much. lol
Anyway, I made a ton of awesomeness friends at camp, and I had an awesome time too! I shan't go into all the details... although, for my private blog followers, I'll try to have some pictures up sometime this week.
Anyway, just wanted to let y'all know I'm still alive! lol

In Christ,
~Madison

Oh the Antiques You Can Find...

Yes, indeedy. Yesterday, my mom and I went shopping nearly the whole day for antiques! 'Twas quite fun. =) Here is a summary of what we did yesterday... including pictures of the wonderful finds!
Well, we lit out for our first stop about 10:30. We finally got there. This place is huge. I don't mean pretty big. I mean like, huge, gigantic... I'm not sure how big, but if you had been there before, you would know what I meant by big. Anyway, we entered into the building, and I found several *great* buys! =D Here are some pictures:


Well, first of all, these glasses! =) Aren't they *so* pretty? My mom and I were walking along, when we came across this really neat booth. My mom got some taller glasses that are exactly like them, except, duh, taller. =P These I guess are more like dessert glasses. =) Anyway, they were only $2 each, so I couldn't pass them up!

Pretty random plate. =) I was holding it up against our black stove so you could see the pattern better. Only $2!

This is a really pretty plate, and similar to a bowl and plate I already have. (oh, sorry for the remaining tag that was sticking to it ;-) It shall be washed off) Anyway, I found it, and it was only $2. But then I saw that everything at that particular booth was, I think, 40% off! So I quickly snatched it up.


Also... I had to treat myself to some do-dads. =P I couldn't help myself. This was about the only "splurge" I had yesterday. They were $2 each, but I just *had* to get them!
It was funny... I was talking to my mom yesterday, and I told her how these three little pendants describe me in my entirety. =P They really do! Here's how:

Mr. Unbelievably-Funny-Smiley-Jumping-Frog shows my hyperness, happiness, and craziness. =P My facial expression is often like that of Mr. Unbelievably-Funny-Smiley... well, so on and so on. ;-)

The cross pendant shows my faith.

And this one may confuse you a tad. How can this describe me? Well, the pink shows my feminine and quiet side... and I dunno why, but this pendant seems kinda peaceful... which, believe it or not, I can be peaceful sometimes. =P

Anyway, it was just kind of funny how they seemed to describe me. =P
Anyway, I'm intending to use them for key chains, and I can just switch them out when I get tired of one.

After going shopping at that place, we went and ate lunch with my grandmother and uncle. It was really fun... we got to talk about a lot of stuff. =)

After lunch, we went to another antique shop. Not *nearly* as big as the first one, but still, it was pretty large.
I found a pretty good find there too!

These two bowls were originally $3 each. I found one, and immediately decided to buy it, because I have several pieces of glass with this pattern. Then I found the other one. And I also realized that almost everything at that booth was 50% off. So I ended up getting both bowls for $3! =)
Oh... and um... I had a problem... you see... these bowls seemed to multiply. Don't believe me? Don't believe that two bowls can multiply? Well then you just roll down and see for yourself. ;-)






Tehehehehe. =D Told ya! And none of these bowls are the two shown above! So... how did this happen? Well, I told my grandmother (who was shopping with us) that I found these two bowls. She said that she would go with the ones she had given me (she moved a while back, and had given me several pieces of glassware). I looked confused and said I didn't have any bowls like that. So, she found out that she had them, and she said she would give them to me! =D So when we went by her house later, she gave me these 7 bowls! So now I have 9 of these bowls! =D I'm sooo excited about it!

She also gave me this larger serving bowl! =) So now I'm ready to go! =D

Soo... that was pretty much my shopping day. We went three other places, but the only other things I got were a button and some flipflops. =P So, nothing large.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the post!

By the way, this is the last post I'll do for a week, as I will be gone at camp with Macy. =D I'll be gone until July 18th. I'm gonna miss y'all! Oh, and I would appreciate prayers for our and the other campers safety, and also that we would have a great time. =) Thanks!
Well, have a great week! God bless! =)

In Christ alone,
~Madison

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Week 25

Well, I haven't posted much lately... so I suppose I should, now shouldn't I? ;-)

For Today: July 8th, 2009

Outside my window: Rather cloudy skies...

I am thinking: About how happy I am. =) lol

I am thankful for: M & M's. =D

I am wearing: Jeans, a blue shirt... and I guess that is it. =P

I am reading: Technically, 15 books, but I haven't been reading at *all* lately...

I am hoping: Um.... that the next three days will pass quickly! =D I am going to summer camp with Macy on Sunday, and I cannot wait!

I am creating: Wow... Umm... a scarf, a cardigan, a baby cardigan, another scarf, another scarf... =P And a few other things. lol

I am hearing: The air conditioner and some music... and our neighbor doing house work.

Around the house: I believe my mom is on the computer, and the dogs are probably sleeping.

One of my favorite things: Hmm... I know I've said this before, but music. =) Music makes me sooo happy. =D

What I accomplished since last week: Hmm... * thinks * Going to see my grandmother, driving my bro up to summer camp, relaxing, watching Prince Caspian, knitting... and a few other things.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Knit, garden, back for camp... and other usual stuff. =)

And sorry... no picture or video today. I couldn't find one. =(

Anyway, that is all for today!
Oh, and just so you know, like I said, I'm leaving for camp on Sunday, and I won't be back until the next Saturday. I'll probably do a post or two before I leave, but I just wanted to let y'all know. =)

Have a great day!

In Christ,
~Madison

My 4th of July

First of all...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AMERICA!! =D

Yes, today is the day that our forefathers declared our independence. We now have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. =) Three cheers for our forefathers!

Anyway... I guess y'all want to know how I spent my 4th of July. Well, today itself, I don't think we're doing anything. I had my 4th of July celebration on the 3rd. =P I will try not to bore you to death while I tell y'all what I did yesterday.
About 10:00 yesterday morning, my uncle and cousins came and picked us up to go down to my aunt's house. I knew it was going to be an interesting drive with my brother, and my two cousins Austin and Macy. Well... for a while... most everything was quiet. Then, closer to the end... * cough * Things got a little interesting. Well... Macy randomly decided she was going to start counting to 1,000. Wow. Yeah. Also, Austin has this awesome recorder, where, of course, you record your voice... but then, when you play it back, you can make it faster or slower. =P It was awesome! For instance, Austin did a MadLibs (if you've never done these before, I don't know how you've ever been a kid =P ), and recorded his voice when he was reading it. It was about the weather. For instance, "...storm perambulating around the seas..." =D And then, in the background, Spencer kept saying, "Amen!" =P It was hilarious! Especially when they played it back really fast.... when it was on that setting, Spencer sounded like a chipmunk when he said "amen". Hehe! It was sooo much fun. In the meantime, Macy was at... about 700. =P lol!
Anyway, about 5 minutes later, we got to my aunt and uncle's house. The first thing we did was go and great everyone... and then got our bathing suits and sunscreen on. My aunt has a pool at her house, so we always go swimming there each summer. When I finally got out to the pool (I had to go in the house twice to get goggles and to put my glasses up), and I did something I have never done before. Everyone is always daring someone who hasn't gotten in yet to just jump in. So, I ran all the way across the yard, and then jumped into the pool. =D It was fun! Cold water... in really hot weather... amazing! =D Anyway, we swam for probably an hour, and then we went and ate lunch. That consisted of hot dogs (with onions, ketchup, and cheese on top =), pickles, baked beans, and Skittles. =P lol! Anyway, after we ate, we went to go see the dog that my aunt has been taking care of. She was *so* cute! She was pretty small, but she had the coloring and face of an Australian shepherd. She was really hyper too. =P
After that, we went and jumped back in the pool. I actually didn't swim that much after that. Mostly we just hung on to the edge of the pool. Although we did do some swimming. We probably stayed out for another hour or two. Oh, and I have the scars to show it... horrible sunburns on my shoulders, face, and a little bit on my arms. Paaaainful!
Then Macy and I went back inside the house... and then went right back out to take some random pictures of each other. =D Then we went back inside and just hung out with the family.
So... that was basically what we did yesterday. =) It was really fun!

Anyway, I hope all of you have a safe, awesome 4th of July!
And one more thing.....












GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!

In Christ,
~Madison

Hope Chest Treasures and Fun Things

Well... before I begin, I suppose I should lay out the results from the polls. =)
Q: How many posts do you want to see on my blog?
Out of 11 people, 9 people said "the same amount you've been posting" and 4 voted for "more than you post.

Q: What kind of posts do you want to see?
Out of 18 people, 12 said posts about my life, 11 said posts with lots of pictures, 8 said posts with videos (that I did), 7 said serious posts, 5 said posts with reviews, random facts, on how to do crafts, and homesteading, 4 said The Simple Woman's Daybook posts, and 1 said posts with videos from YouTube.

Thanks to *all* who answered this poll! I'll try to do some posts with what you asked! =)

Now, since y'all voted you wanted to hear more about my life (trust me, it isn't going to be interesting ;-) =P ), I'll tell you about how yesterday went, and how I got these treasures and fun things!
Well... we got up yesterday and went to my grandmother's house (she is only about 35 minutes away), and then we went out to eat at Cracker Barrel. I had a wonderfully autumn breakfast (which didn't exactly match the blazing hot summer weather)... it was hot biscuits with apple butter, a side of bacon, and orange juice. =) Hmm... set me in a mood for autumn (which is my favorite season!). After we ate, naturally, we went out into the shopping area. They were having some sales, so I decided to look around and see if I wanted something. Then I saw it. I was shocked. Cheap, cute, and something we use all the time! Plus the fact it could go in my hope chest! And 40% off? Okay, so you want to know what it is. ;-) Well, it was a ceramic sugar and creamer set! =D Okay, so you're wondering what is so special about that? Look at these pictures of them! =)


Aren't they *beautiful*? I thought they were simply gorgeous. They were originally $9, which is a steal anyway, but they were 40% off, so I got them for $6! More expensive than something that you can find used, but they were too pretty to pass up! Anyway, while we were there, my mom spotted something that I had seen earlier. Cutest thing ever. =)

I thought it was sooo cute! =D Chicken plate... =) Oh, if it looks big to you, just to let you know, it isn't. =P Very small. My mom suggested I could use it say for instance if you were at the table and were drinking tea, you could put your tea bag on it. And I'm sure I can find other things to use it for. I know you're not supposed to buy something unless you know how you're going to use it... but honestly. =P Anyway, if nothing else, I could hang it up for decoration!
Anyway, afterwards, we went back to my grandmother's. But we only dropped my brother off, so he wouldn't have to go shopping with me and my mom. ;-) First we went to an office supply store and craft store... then we went to Target, one of my favorite stores! =) Now, believe it or not, I'm very into fashion. Modest fashion, mind you, but fashion, nonetheless. Anyway, I was shopping around for some of those big purses that are in now. I had been in Target a couple of months earlier, and had seen some cute ones. I didn't see the same ones this time, so I was kind of dissapointed. I kept looking around, and I couldn't really find anything. But I finally started seeing some purses that I like... and then I got all confused, because I had 5 purses I like and only about $20 to spend. =P (of course, I wouldn't have ever bought all 5, just saying it was a hard decision) So, I ended up getting these two. =) This one I'm going to keep:

Up-close of the button:

Okay... so maybe it is big and fashionable, but I like it! =P
Anyway, this other one, I'm not sure if I'm going to keep... I need to see if it would go with most of my clothes:

Up-close of the fabric:

I really liked this one, so I had to grab it. Only $10! Not bad for a purse. ;-)

Anyway, I suppose that is all for today!

In Christ,
~Madison

P.S. On Friday or Saturday, I will probably have another longer post up about my life... so if you want to read about it, then come then and I should have one for you. =P

May/June Book and Movie Reviews

So, did ya think that I had forgotten about last months movies and books? Of course not! =P Last month ended on a Sunday, which I like spending with my family. So I didn't do that long post. Anyway, this month, it will be doubly long because: I finished several books last month, *and*, at one point this month, for about a week, I was watching an average of one or two movies per day. =P Yeah... we were getting movies from Netflix, and all that kind of thing, so I've watched several new movies this month.
Anyway, to get on with everything! =)
First, book reviews:

Title: Northanger Abbey
Author: Jane Austen
Rating: 4 stars
About: This is definitely the best of Jane Austen, in my opinion, which is surprising, as this was her first better-known novel. Although, I have heard that most people find this book to be their least favorite by Austen. This book is about a girl named Catherine, who is going on a trip into Bath. Catherine is flirtatious and has a very creative mind. She goes on a visit to Northanger Abbey... but in the meantime, is trying to discover it's secrets. Austen made the characters in this book very vivid, and the storyline was really good! Like I said, if I were to recommend any Jane Austen book, it would definitely be Northanger Abbey.

Title: Sense and Sensibility
Author: Jane Austen
Rating: 4 stars
About: This book is about two girls: Marianne and Elinor Dashwood. These two sisters are complete and total opposites. Elinor is quiet and sensible, while Marianne is loud, flirtatious, and wears her heart on her sleeve. Especially when the attractive Mr. Willoughby comes along. The Dashwoods had just been thrown out of their house by a family member who had inherited it, so they moved to a little cottage. There, they meet Mr. Willoughby and Colonel Brandon. As the story goes on, they find out that Mr. Willoughby is probably not the most suitable man for Marianne... and Elinor, as well, finds out that the man she is in love with is engaged to another young lady.
This is a wonderful story, and I highly recommend this book!

Title: The Scarlet Pimpernel
Author: Baroness Orczy
Rating: 5 stars
About: Best book. Ever. =P Okay, not really, but this book is fantastic! Its about a man, Sir Percy, and his wife, Lady Marguerite. Marguerite was at one time the most famous woman in Europe, as she was French actor. But when she went off to marry Sir Percy, she thought he was in love with her. But now, she is not so sure about his love. And while this is going on, Marguerite's "friend", Chauvelin, is trying to find out who the Scarlet Pimpernel is. The Scarlet Pimpernel was a man who saved people from the guillotine (sp?) in France. And Chauvelin was trying to get everything he could out of Marguerite. But Marguerite has a hard choice: she can either give away what she knows about the Scarlet Pimpernel, or she can save her beloved brother. Which would she choose?
Ah... now... if you have not read this book, go to the library or book store and read it. =P Wonderful book! I highly recommend it!

Title: French Women Don't Get Fat
Author: Mireille Guiliano
Rating: 5 stars
About: When you read this title, you probably laughed. "French women don't get fat? What on earth does *that* mean?" Possibly that was what you were thinking. Well, I'll tell you. =P This book is a *fantastic* book by a French woman. Being from France, she knows the secrets of French women on how to stay thin. This book explains how they do it. One thing is, is French women don't diet. And now you're probably thinking, "But I thought this was a dieting book!" Well, not really. This book is how to have healthy eating habits, which actually keeps you thinner than dieting! For one thing, you don't have to cut out things that you think make you fat, like chocolate and dairy items. You're probably surprised at this, but the key to not getting fat from things like that is eating in moderation. Eating dairy and chocolate in moderation is actually more healthy than cutting them out altogether! Another key thing is eating those things in the best quality you can find them. Anyway, moving on from that, another important thing is drinking *lots* of water. This can help you loose at least a pound or two. Also, exercising is a great way to lose weight. But the way she says to exercise is probably not what you're thinking about. You're probably thinking about going to a gym and working out, or going on those death marches around the block. ;-) Well, that isn't what she suggests. She is talking about taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or playing tennis with a friend every week. Things like this help you lose weight, *and* they keep you healthier. And one last thing: don't just snack. Oh yes, we are all guilty of this one. ;-) That's when you pull the chips out of the pantry and snack on them for about an hour. Or eating a whole carton of ice cream in one sitting. Those things that you *think* you need to eat. Sometimes, people just get so into the habit of eating, they eat even when they don't need to. If you're not hungry, don't eat anything!!! That is probably the biggest thing in losing weight. And if you are hungry, don't eat too much, and lean towards something healthy, like yogurt or fruit.
Anyway, now that I've give you almost the whole way on living French, you can go and read the rest of the book. =P Great book, and I highly recommend it!

Title: The Giver
Author: Lois Lowry
Rating: 5 stars +
About: This book is about a boy named Jonas, who has just become a 12 in the quiet, orderly Community. In this Community, there is no color, no feelings, no pain. Everybody has to do everything the exact same way as everyone else. But when Jonas is assigned to be the Receiver of the Memory, he isn't sure what to expect. Jonas begins to learn about things like happiness, pain, and love. But one day, he learns about something in the community that he didn't know before... what "releasing" really is. That is when he has to take a major, drastic move...
This book is a fantastic book, which I highly, highly recommend!


Now... on to movie reviews. These reviews will probably be pretty short, as there are *so* many movies that I've watched! But, here they are:

Title: Fiddler on the Roof
Rating: G
Genre: Musical
Rating: 3 stars
About: This movie is about a Jewish man in Russia, who has three daughters who want to get married. But as each one comes up asking him for his blessing, he has to decide how much he can give in lenience towards his daughters. How far can they go while still getting his blessing?
Pretty good movie. Not my favorite... don't really like the ending... but you might like it. =P If you like musicals a lot, then I would recommend this one.

Title: The Princess Bride
Rating: PG
Genre: Fairy Tale.... =P
Rating: 5 stars
About: Okay, so you're probably gaping at the fact I hadn't watched this movie up until this month. =P Well... I doubt there are many of you out there who haven't watched this movie...
Anyway, this is *such* a typical fairy tale movie. =P But that is what makes it so funny! Princess Buttercup is about to marry her dear Wesley, when he has to go away... and then the prince tries to marry her... and then Wesley comes back to try to save her... but then Wesley gets carried away to the horrible... torturing.... machine.... thing....... =P * cough * Will the wonderful Wesley be able to marry his beautiful Buttercup? Awesome movie, and I absolutely loved it! I definitely recommend this one.

Title: Up
Rating: PG
Genre: Children
Rating: 4 stars
About: This movie is the first movie I've seen in theaters since either The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe or Facing the Giants. =P Can't remember which came later. Anyway, this movie is about a man named Carl. It starts out when he is a little boy, and he wants to go to a place called Paradise Falls. Then, he meets a little girl who is insane, hyperactive, and crazy, who wants to do the same thing. The first 10-15 minutes show Carl's and Ellie's life together... getting married... doing fun things... and saving up to go to Paradise Falls. Except for one thing... they keep having to pull their savings out. Then, one day, Ellie dies. At this point, I was nearly crying. =P Really a very sad part of the movie... very sentimental and everything.... well, one day, not very long afterwards, Carl is about to be picked up to be taken to a retirement home. Well, he doesn't think so. He tells the men who are about to pick him up that he wants to go back through the house one more time. Well.... the men are absolutely amazed to see hundreds and hundreds of balloons come up from behind the house, tearing the house off of it's foundations, and carrying it away. Well... Carl is trying to float away to Paradise Falls to fulfill his promise to Ellie. Well... he is flying along in the air.... nice and quiet.... when... *knock* *knock* *knock* His eyes get big. He goes to the door, and finds a little boy named Russell clinging to the siding of the house. Russell is in something similar to the Boy Scouts, trying to earn a badge for serving the elderly. Carl slams the door on Russell.... but then opens it again, and Russell comes tearing the house, talking and talking and talking... messing things up, and acting rather crazy. The story goes on from here.... and oh my word, oh my word, ohmyword.... oh. my. word. Close to the end... oh my word... it is the sweetest thing *ever*!! But I shall not spoil it for you. =D Hehehe! So now you must go and watch this movie. I loved it!

Title: My Fair Lady
Rating: G
Genre: Musical
Rating: 3 stars
About: This movie is about a young lady, Eliza, living in England, who has absolutely horrible speech (oh, and she is "a good girl" she is!! ;-) One night, a man, Professor Henry Higgins, comes up to her and swears he could entirely change the way she spoke in just a few months. So, she comes to him one day, asking for lessons. Well, he gives her lessons... but they aren't exactly what she expected. Henry is very mean to her, making her practice for hours and hours without sleep or anything.... but he continues working and working, and then one night, tries to pass her off.
This is a pretty good movie. Not my favorite, but I liked it. =)

Title: Enchanted
Rating: PG
Genre: Children
Rating: 4 stars
About: This movie is about a princess, Giselle, in an animated world who is about to marry her wonderful Prince Edward, who is the man she has been searching for... but Edward's horrible mother-in-law throws her down a well into a horrible place.... New York? Suddenly, she leaves the animated world, and comes into the real world. It's a cold rainy night, and nobody will help her... except, oddly enough, a divorce lawyer, Robert. Giselle is singing and talking rather strangely everywhere she goes, getting Robert in trouble. He continues to try to help her. But as the movie goes on, Giselle seems to lose interest in Edward. But when Edward comes to try to save her, she has no choice but to go back with him.
Just as a note though, there is one scene in here that makes it a PG movie. It isn't terribly bad, but just as a warning, there is a PG scene in here.
This is a really cute movie. =) I enjoyed it! I would recommend this to people who like Disney movies.

Title: Fireproof
Rating: PG
Genre: Christian
Rating: 5 + stars
About: This movie is absolutely wonderful! It is about a guy, Caleb, and his wife, Catherine. Catherine wants to get a divorce. They are constantly fighting. But when Caleb's dad hears about it, he comes to talk to his son. He tells him that he will send him something in the mail that takes 40 days to do, and he told him to wait and see if it changed his marriage. Caleb gets a book in the mail called The Love Dare, written in his dad's own hand. He tries to do it... but it only gets harder. Catherine seems to be pushing him away more, and not noticing a thing he did. What can he do to change himself and her?
This is a fantastic movie! Better than both Flywheel and Facing the Giants, in my opinion. =) I highly recommend it!

Title: The Swan Princess
Rating: G
Genre: Children
Rating: 3 stars
About: Well... this movie is so typical fairy tale, it is scary. =P And you're wondering how I came to watch it? Well, this was my cousin Macy's favorite movie when she was younger, so she had me watch it. Anyway, it is about Princess Odette and Prince Derek. Odette's father and Derek's mother plan to have them married when they got older, so their kingdoms would be united. When they are about to get married, Odette is carried away by the evil bad guy dude, Rothbart. =P Anyway, he puts a curse on her that she is a swan until the moon shines on the lake that she is held captive in.
Pretty good movie. =) I liked it.

Title: Prates of the Carribean- The Curse of the Black Pearl
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Not really sure... lol
Rating: 4 stars
About: Yeah... I hadn't watched this one. Amazed, now are you? ;-)
This movie is about a girl named Elizabeth, who as a child, was fascinated with pirates. But one day, she is captured by pirates. But these pirates have a curse... they can't be killed. They become skeletons at night. Since Elizabeth is captured, the man who was in love with her, Will, has to go in search of her. Helping him is the crazy, not-so-common pirate, Jack Sparrow.
This movie is really good, and I really enjoyed it. If you like Lord of the Rings, you'll probably like this movie. =)

Title: Roman Holiday
Rating: Unrated
Genre: Classic
Rating: 3 stars
About: This is your basic, classic, chic flic from around the 40's and 50's. ;-) Audrey Hepburn stars as a princess from Europe. Entirely sick of the schedule and hum-drum of things, she runs off one night. Unfortunately, right before she left, she had been given something to make her sleepy. She is found by a journalist (Gregory Peck), and so he takes her in. The next day, she says she is a student who had escaped from school. But he knows who she is, and tries to find out all her secrets for a huge story for the news. But it ends up that throughout the day, they start falling in love...
Pretty good movie. =) I didn't like the ending terribly, but I really liked the story!


Wow... wait... really? Is this reality? Did I finally just finish these reviews??? :-o =P
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed! Have a great day! =)

In Christ,
~Madison

Hope Chest and Homesteading

Real quick: To all my private blog readers, I did a pretty long post on that too. So you can go read that. =)

Well, here is my promised post! But I'm also adding a little something that I didn't mention yesterday. =) I'm going to post a couple of things that I have for my hope chest. One I made, and one I bought.
This was the one I bought. I'll kinda explain how I got this.... tell you a little bit about today. =P Well... I was woken up at an unearthly hour of the morning (just kiddin'... it was actually a rather late hour that I won't mention =P), and about 15 minutes later, my aunt called and said that she and Macy were going to go to a couple of garage sales, and she was wondering if I wanted to come. So, they drove into Chick-fil-a, picked up a breakfast sandwich, swung by and picked me up, and we went to these garage sales. =) The first one we found out was actually *last* week (and the newspaper and printed it today... now how annoying is that?), so we went to our next one. Macy found these amazingly pretty plates that she'll post pictures of soon on her blog. =) (click "blog" to go to hers) Then we went to our second garage sale. This one was really big. Well... this is the thing I bought. =)

Isn't it pretty? =D A guy came up to me while I was looking at it, and said it would be $1. I shoulda asked if I could get it for 50 cents... but he said it was brand new, and it had never been used. So I quickly snatched it up. It can be for my hope chest, but it also goes with the room that I have right now! =) So, yeah! I'm really excited about this one, and I dunno why... it isn't terribly big. lol

Anyway, as for the thing in my hope chest that I *made*...
Drum roll please! =D



It's a baby cardigan! =) It was the easiest thing in the world to make, and I *love* how it looks! Cute, soft, and the flower button is just precious! Hehe. =)
Here is a close up of the stitches...


I love knitting, and this one knit up really quickly.

Well... now we shall mosy along to the homesteading part! =)
So, a few weeks ago, I took a picture of some tea that I had made. A couple of nights ago, I decided to try out my first homemade tea! =)

Getting the tea ready... (sugar and cookies and tea in the tea ball)

Pouring the tea into the tea cup....

Waiting for the tea to change color....

And it turned into a gorgeous light green color! =) Shows that it is fresh tea. ;-)
Anyway, more than anything, it smelled good. Didn't have much of a taste. But it smelled unbelievably good! (just so you know, it had mint, lemon balm, and lavendar flowers in it)

Also, we have been harvesting a lot from our garden, which has been really fun!
For one thing, lots of tomatoes have been coming in:

I picked six yesterday... and more should be ready in a week or two.
Also, last night was really exciting! =D We grew beans for the first time this year, and so last night I went out and picked our first crop. It wasn't much... but it was enough that we all got some for supper. =) They tasted *so* good and fresh! Sorry I didn't get a picture of them.

Anyway, the last thing for today, is I'm going to show you how to make hot pepper jelly! This is also something I did today. Almost immediately after I got home from going to yard sales, I got to work on this.
Now, this is my first time making anything like this... so I was a tad inexperienced... but it went *pretty* well. =P
Oh, and yes, all the peppers came from the garden. And if I know you, and you like peppers, and you want some please come see me!! I have about a bazillion banana peppers, and more coming on... and I'm about to die we have so many banana peppers! =P Okay, not really... but yeah, we have to many. Okay... I'm getting off track here.

This is what you will need for the jelly:

~1/4 cup chopped jalapenos
~3/4 cup chopped sweet peppers (I used banana peppers)
~6 cups of sugar (isn't it ridiculous?)
~2 1/2 cups of cider vinegar
~2 3-ounce pouches of liquid pectin
~A few drops of red or green food coloring (optional)

In this recipe, they suggest that you use all green or all red peppers, so the jelly will have a soft color.

As for pots and pans and such, here is what you will need:

~Blender
~Two large saucepans
~Strainer
~Jars for freezing

First, chop up all your jalapenos.

Put this into the blender (sorry for the bluriness...)


Next, chop up your banana peppers, and put into the blender.


Blend until the peppers look about like this.

Next, in your first large sauce pan, put in the sugar, apple cider vinegar, and your ground up peppers. Turn on high heat.

Stir constantly.
Bring to a boil.
Next, simmer for 10 minutes.

Now you're going to need your strainer and your other large saucepan.

Pour the whole mixture into the strainer, over the other pan. This will catch all of the peppers.
Now, scoop out two tablespoons of the pepper mixture. Don't put all of it in. This part is just for texture. The taste of the peppers is already in the liquid part, so you don't need all of the peppers. Throw the rest of the peppers away.

Next, pour the two tablespoons of peppers and the liquid back into your first saucepan (or you could leave it in your second... whichever). Bring this back to a boil.
After it is boiling, turn the heat down. Add your pectin and food coloring (if you are adding it).
Bring back to a boil one more time, and let it boil for one minute.
Remove from heat.

Now, you are ready to put it into jars. Now, I was doing this a little bit differently from the recipe. I'm planning on freezing my jelly.
If you are only canning this, use these instructions:
Ladle into sterilized jelly jars (this one calls for about six 8-ounce jars) with two-part canning lids, leaving 1/8 inch headroom, and seal. Process in boiling-water bath for 10 minutes.

If you would like to freeze your jelly, follow these instructions:
Ladle into freezer jars, leaving about 1/4-1/8 inch headroom. Cover immediately with lid. Let the jelly sit out for 24 hours, and then freeze.

And, here was the finished product!


Pretty, isn't it? =) I got 6 1/2 jars of jelly. Now it is sitting out on the counter, setting up.

EDIT: Well... just for kicks, I'm gonna throw in a few tags. I love tags... but don't feel like you have to read them. I just love typing them out! =D

I found this one on Earwen's blog. =)

How tall are you? I shall not tell you. =P Okay... I'll give you this much... I'm between 5 feet and 6 feet! Hehehe. =P


What are your favorite out-of-doors things to do? Gardening, walking, swinging (yes, I still love doing it =D ), running around and screaming like a maniac, and swimming.


What are your favorite indoor activities? Reading, knitting, eating =P, messin' around on the computer, watching DVDs, etc. etc.



What are your favorite books? The Inheritance, Rainbow Valley (from the Anne of Green Gables series), The Fellowship of the Ring, The Magician's Nephew, The Silver Chair, and sooo many more that I can't remember.


What are your favorite movies? The Lord of the Rings, Pride & Prejudice, Sense & Sensibility, Chariots of Fire, To Kill a Mockingbird, Prince Caspian, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and lots more that I can't think of.


If you could live in any era, what era would it be? Definitely the 1930's-50's. =D I always think of that time as the most "innocent" time. My dad always tells stories from when he was a kid, around those times, and it always seems like such a wonderful era. =)

Do you believe in in Phenomena? It depends on what ya mean. =P


Who are your favorite fictional characters? Fun question! =D Sam (LotR), Lucy (The Chronicles of Narnia), Anne (Anne of Green Gables series), Elizabeth (Pride & Prejudice), Elinor (Sense and Sensibility (I'm actually *very* much like Elinor... except more hyper! =P)), Bilbo (The Hobbit), and a lot more. =)


What are your favorite songs/artists? Haha, this will be a *long* list. Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin, Brandon Heath, FFH, Chris Rice, MercyMe, Jim Brickman, George Winston, Nickel Creek, Newsboys, Superchick, David Crowder, James Taylor, Yo-Yo Ma, The Rippingtons, Chris Thile, Michael Card, and Mark Schultz are just some that I like. And believe it or not, I do listen to some popular music. ;-)

Who are your favorite poets? Alfred Lord Tennyson, William Wordsworth, John Keats, J.R.R. Tolkien, and some others I can't think of off the top of my head...

What are your favorite mythological creatures? Erm... I don't really have any favorites. I never really thought about it. =P

What are your favorite girl names? Oh wow! Hard... Here are some: Adelaide, Aletta, Christy, Eowyn (wink wink ;-), Grace, Samantha, Elizabeth, Alexa, Allie, and lots of others.

What are your favorite boy names? Peter, Wyman, James, Jeremy, Ethan, Chris, Carson, Travis, Micah, Mitchell, Derek, and Eric.

What are your favorite colors? Blue, green, brown, and white.

What do you often say? Wow...
Totally!
Hehe, yeah.
Yep.
(notice this is all stuff you add if you can't think of anything to say =P)

What fictional character would you love to meet? Hmm... Sam or Eowyn from LotR.

Who do you tag now? Whoever wants to be tagged.


This is another one I found from Earwen's blog:


Starting time: 5:46
Name: Madison =) (yes, with the smiley face added. =P lol, that is my signature! If you're around, and have pencil and paper, beware... I'm likely to start drawing smiley faces all over it!)

Sisters: None. =( Of course, Macy (my cousin) is nearly my sister! =)
Brothers: One, Spencer.

What are you wearing? An ivory skirt, and an ankle-length black and white skirt.

Favorite number: Probably 88.
Favorite drink: Water, lemonade, coke, and mochas! =D

Favorite month? October. Very autumnish. =)

Favorite breakfast? Umm... I hate breakfast... in general. =P Sometimes it can be good. It depends on what mood I'm in, but my favorites are: chocolate chip muffins, scrambled or fried eggs, or maybe oatmeal (it's good if you put some maple syrup, milk, and butter in it! =D)
Love someone so much who made you cry? I think so...

Broken a bone? My collar bone. Pain. =P

Been in a police car? I think *once*.... but it was because this guy knew my dad, and he was taking us on a tour of the police station thingy. =P Not 'cause we were arrested. lol

Been on a boat? Yep! Looove it! =D
Came close to dying? Nope, thank goodness!

Been in a hot tub? Yep!

Swam in the ocean? Oh yeah. But not a lot.
Fallen asleep in school? Hehehe, sorta. xD

Cried when someone dies? Yep.

Fallen off a chair? I think so.
--------------------Who---------------------
Who did you last yell at? Hmm... I dunno. It's been a while since I yelled. Of course... I did get mad at the computer a day or two ago. lol!

Do you like filling theses out? Loooove them! =D Why else would I be doing them?

Do you like yourself? I suppose so... sorta. Maybe. Kinda. =P

--------------Today did you---------------
Talk to someone you like? Duh! My mom and dad. =D

Got sick? Nope, thank heavenly goodness. =P I hate being sick!

Sing? Yep, in church. =D And very quietly at home... hopefully nobody was listening. =P
-------------------Last person who-----------------
You talked to on the phone with? I think my brother...

Made you cry? I dunno... umm... oh yeah! =P A little boy who I babysat for! lol I had such a bad day that I cried... lol He had been a big handful, and then a bunch of little things happened... and then the last straw came... and I just had to hide. =P

Went to the mall with? Dad and bro. The bookstore is at the mall. =D

Been to Europe? No. =( *sigh*
Been to Asia? Nope.
Been to Russia? No!

Been to the Bahamas? Nopers.
Been to Mexico? Nope nope nope.

Been to Canada? Nope. (I've never been out of the country, silly tag! =P )

Been to Africa? See above note. =P
---------------------Final questions--------------------
What are you listening to? My dad watch golf.... and the air conditioner... no music playing, amazingly enough.

Do you hate someone in your family? Umm... no. =/

What car do you wish to have? Hehehe!! xD Wow... lots of cars...... A black or red Cooper... (awesome car!!)... and a Lexus. I don't want a Lexus to look impressive, but I absolutely *love* the way they look! Of course I'll never get one of those... with my luck, I'll probably get a ratty pickup truck. lol!

Good singer? No. Absolutely not. All the people who have *ever* commented on my singing say I'm off-key. =P So....... yeah. That is why I only sing when I'm alone or in church. (or in chorus)

Indoors or Outdoors? Depends. I like both. =)

Do you have a job? Yep... lots. =P Every-now-and-then babysitter, daughter, cousin, sister... and so on!

Time finished: 5:59


And one more tag! I found this one on Laney's blog. =)


What is your favorite song? Hmm... today I'm gonna say Sing, Sing, Sing by Chris Tomlin.

What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time? Read, knit, do stuff on the computer, write in my journal, etc.

What is your favorite animal? Maybe dogs?

Do you have any family members that follow your blog? Macy, my cousin. =) And I think my brother lurks on my blog.... xD lol! And my mom reads it every now and then.

Do you like to sing? Loooooove it! Unfortunately, I don't have a good voice. =P

What is your favorite YouTube video? I dunno... I guess I'm gonna say Lord of the Rings in 60 seconds. =D

Do you play an instrument? Piano and the dulcimer!

What grade are you in? Hmm... maybe I'm in the 7th grade... or possibly I'm in college.... or maybe I'm in the 3rd grade.... you never know, now do you? =P

Do you get a lot of comments on your blog? No... =(

Do you like nature? Definitely!! =D

Do you believe in fairies? Nope.

Are you crazy? Tooootaaallly!!!!! =D =D =D =D =D

Do you have a playlist? Yeppers! =)

What are your 3 favorite books? The Fellowship of the Ring, The Inheritance, and Rainbow Valley.

What are your three favorite movies? Lord of the Rings, Pride & Prejudice, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

Do you have a cell phone? Yep! =D Love it too! (although I can't do much with it...) I'm a technology insane... person... so, I love anything like that that I can play with. =)

Do you have an ipod? No, but I sooo want one!!

What is your longest post? I dunno...

How many times have you started a tag? Lots, if you consider the ones I finished. =)

How many time have you been tagged? I dunno... several times.

Have you ever ridden a horse? Yep, a few times. =)

Do you like your blog signature? I don't have one!

Are you hungry? Nope, I've been snacking on Vanilla Wafers for a while... =P

What's the weather? Incredibly hot, and rather dry. I'm ready for some thunderstorms!

'What is your favorite song on your playlist? Just ONE?? Let's make it five. =P Lemonade, Turn, A Million Miles Away, Some Days You Gotta Dance, and either Sweet Home Alabama, Suzie Q., Midnight Special, or Free Bird. =P

When is your birthday? I'm not tellin' you! =P

Are you tired? Yes.... * yawns *

Are you on vacation right now? Sorta...

Are you bored? Nope.

What time is it right now? 6:09

What is your least favorite book? I'm not sure...

What's your least favorite movie? Hmm.... I'm gonna say Gone With the Wind. =P

How are you feeling right now? Tired... want to watch The Waltons and eat pizza like we do *every* Sunday night. =)

Who are you tagging now? Anyone who wants to do this tag! =)

Okay, that's all for now!


Anyway... this is the end of my post. I hope you enjoyed all the pictures! =)
Have a great day! God bless!

In Christ,
~Madison

Two Tags!

I got this from Julia's blog. =) By the way, tomorrow, I'm planning on doing a long post about our homesteading adventure! So tomorrow, expect a long post with pictures! =)

What is your favorite day of summer?
Hmm... I dunno. I think every day is my favorite. =) But... I guess July 4th. That is always fun.

What’s your favorite outdoor summer activity?
Gardening. =D I love going out and working in it. 'Tis very fun!

What’s your favorite indoor summer activity?
Reading, knitting, messin' around on the computer...

Pool or beach?
Wow, that is a hard question! Probably the beach, depending on which one it is. But I like the pool too.

Have you ever camped during the summer?
Nope.

Popsicle or ice cream? What flavor?
Popsicles, because we have ice cream all the time. =P Although I like both.

Do you help with your church's VBS?
Well, if we could find a church to join, then I would probably work with VBS, but I haven't before.

Do you get bored during the summer?
Not really. Sometimes... but generally if I get bored, I hop on the computer, play the piano, or knit on a project that I'm doing.

Is summer your favorite season?
No, definitely not. But it isn't my least favorite. It is probably... second favorite or third favorite. Autumn is definitely my favorite. =)

The other tag was from Sarah. =) This one is a Narnia vs. Lord of the Rings tag.

Narnia VS Middle-earth!

Here I go!

Gimli vs. Trumpkin? Gimli, definitely

Gandalf vs. Professor Cornelius? Oh wow, this one is hard! I'm not really sure... they're both awesome!

The White Witch vs. Saruman? I guess Saruman... but they're both bad... so what's the point in saying either? =P

Gandalf vs. Aslan? Oh wow... another impossible one! =P Umm... I'm gonna say Aslan, but it is so close.

Aragorn vs. Aslan? Hmm... and hard again. lol I'm gonna say Aragorn.

Narnia vs. Middle-earth? Middle-earth, of course! Narnia is cool, but Middle-earth is amazing!

Prince Caspian vs. Frodo? Frodo, definitely.

Susan vs. Arwen? Okay... amazingly enough, I think I'm gonna have to go with Arwen.

Edmund vs. Merry? Oh wow, this one is hard! They're both really awesome! I guess I'll go with Merry.

Lucy vs. Pippin? Pippin, definitely. =P He's hilarious, and has no clue what is going on (like me =P lol!)... so, yeah. Although, I love Lucy!

Peter vs. Haldir? Peter, definitely. But not in the second movie. In that movie he's a jerk...

The Dancing Lawn vs. Lothlorien? Lothlorien, definitely!

Centaurs vs. Elves? Umm... Elves. Of course. =P

Peter's sword vs. Anduril? Peter's sword.

Susan's magic bow and arrows vs. Legolas's bow of the Galadhrim? Hmm... I'm gonna say Legolas's bow.

Wargs vs. Werewolves? Umm... I guess Werewolves. =P

Orcs vs. Hags? Orcs, of course. lol

The White Witche's castle vs. the Tower of Barad-dur? Barad-dur.

Gryphons vs. Eagles? Eagles, definitely!! Totally cool. =D

Uruk-hai or Telemarines? Umm... Uruk-hai, I guess.

Catapults or Oliphaunts? Hmm... I guess Catapults. For some really odd reason, Oliphants seem depressing to me. =P lol!!

Cair Paravel or Rivendell? Wow, that is really hard!! I guess Rivendell.

Well, that is all for now. Anyone who wants to can do those tags. =)
But remember to check back tomorrow for a longer post! (and remember... it comes with pictures! =)

In Christ,
~Madison

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Week 24

Edit: Ack! Thank you so much Riah, for reminding me! =P I forgot to tell all of you about our Father's Day! =P Well... for Father's Day this year, me, my mom, and brother went out to a really awesome, huge store that has every kind of guy thing under the sun... fishing, hunting, camping, grilling, archery... you name it. Anyway, we got our dad some things for grilling, as he has gotten really into that this summer... he's been grilling bratwursts, pork chops, hot dogs, vegetables... really good stuff! =) And my mom made him an awesome card. =D And we went out to the bookstore this afternoon, which was really fun. =)
Anyway... a tribute to my dad: I love my Daddy. =) I've learned sooo much from him. He has taught me to look at both sides of a situation, and how to look on the bright side of things, both of which are very important. I've always wanted to follow my dad, because he sets such a good example. =) I love you Daddy! Happy Father's Day!
And also... to all the other fathers... Happy Father's Day! =)

Hello everyone!
A few things before I start: One, is that I have done a new post on my Bible blog. If you'd like to read it, click here. Also, for my private blog readers, I have something up for you, if you haven't seen it yet. =) And one other thing. I think most of you have voted on my polls, but for those of you who haven't: I have put a couple of polls on the top of my sidebar, as I haven't been getting as many comments lately. Tell me what you'd like to read, and how often you'd like to read it by voting. =) Thanks!
Although I will post what is entitled above, I wanted to share some things with y'all first. I wanted to tell you something I realized last night. This is basically another post, which I'll call "What God's Idea of Great Is". Right now, I'm reading John Ortberg's fantastic book called "God is Closer than You Think." Wonderful book, and I highly recommend it. Anyway, last night, I was thinking about how I was single, and how I wanted to do all these huge, wonderful things for God. And then, while I was reading this book, I came across a passage that just made me laugh, it was so ironic, "Over time, [Brother] Lawrence learned to sit at the Lord's feet even while working. 'It is not necessary to have great things to do. I turn my little omelets in the pan for the love of God....' In the kitchen, 'the lord of all pots and pans' [Brother Lawrence] was spattered with more than grease and flour. He was covered with the dust of his rabbi." That just wowed me. This little man, doing simple work for the Lord, and yet, it looked so great because he did it with a great love for Christ. That's when I realized that if we serve God wholeheartedly, then we *are* doing something great for Him. I'm not saying that we should sit around and do nothing, because we are called to go out and do things for Him that are big. But my point is, is sometimes I think we wait too long for that big thing to happen, instead of doing little things in between. God wants us to do little things. In the Bible, it says if we are faithful in the little things, He will give us big things to do. As I read that passage in the book, I was literally gaping, and laughing at myself for thinking that the little things *weren't* big things. If we serve God with our whole heart, and love Him with our whole heart, mind, and strength, then we are doing exactly what He wants us to do.
Anyway, just thought I'd share that little tidbit with y'all. =)


For Today: June 21st, 2009.

Outside my window: Sunny skies. A bit of breeze. Very hot.

I am thinking: About just finishing The Giver. =) Good book. I'll have a review of it at the end of the month.

I am thankful for: Golf. Random, I know. =P But I like watching it!

I am wearing: A cute skirt from J.Jill (click on skirt to see a picture of it), and a white, short-sleeve sweater with a cute button at the top.

I am reading: 15 books, since I just finished The Giver.

I am hoping: That we'll have pizza for supper tonight! =)

I am creating: A jacket for myself, a baby cardigan, and a pillow... oh, and a scarf.

I am hearing: My dad watching golf and the air conditioner.

Around the house: Well, like I said, my dad is watching golf, my brother is in the dining room, and my mom is probably cleaning up from lunch.

One of my favorite things: Hmm... * thinks * Seeing. =D *winks at Mel*

What I accomplished since last week: A lot of reading... and that is about it. =P It's summer. =P

A few plans for the rest of the week: Do more reading... practice the piano and my dulcimer... pick some tomatoes, squash, and maybe some peppers and beans from the garden... blog... and so on. =)

Here is a picture I am sharing with you:

Sorry the picture isn't very big... I'm on the laptop, so I had to copy it from my private blog... and it was in my sidebar, which made it smaller... and therefore, it is smaller here. =P Yeppers! I love this picture!

Well, that's all for today! Have a blessed Lord's day! =)

In Christ alone,
~Madison