tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62520458145051251152012-02-01T06:31:17.012-05:00a blog about the good things in life... faith, family, homekeeping and the gardenamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.comBlogger2391100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-57153297016809906922012-01-28T16:22:00.000-05:002012-01-28T16:22:57.150-05:00

I have been rearranging every room in the house, or so it seems... The living room has been my latest project. The curtains are from Ikea. I purchased them on a trip there at the end of last month. I wasn't crazy about them but the length was right and the price was right. I didn't take them out of the packaging in case I found something I liked better. I looked everywhere for 96 '' but found

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-57115361914222416982012-01-20T16:42:00.000-05:002012-01-20T16:42:19.939-05:00

Friday is always pizza night. Sometimes we buy it from a local pizzeria and sometimes we make it. Actually, hubby makes it. He has become quite proficient at making the dough. When we make it at home we make garlic knots. Garlic knots seem to be a NY thing and not necessarily a Lancaster thing. I'll post about them another time. So yummy and so simple. The tulips were given to me last week by a

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-63180633269742845492012-01-08T07:16:00.000-05:002012-01-08T07:16:38.804-05:00

 Here in Lancaster County it was a whopping 62 degrees yesterday!It was beau-ti-ful! She is wondering where her Sunflower House disappeared to. This is where we plant sunflower seeds and it fills in and acts a fort for the little ones-so fun. She asked for 2 things for Christmas this year, bubble gum and silly string. It only appears as if she is spraying the truck.The weather station atop of the

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-24971740182862379002011-11-28T15:00:00.000-05:002011-11-28T15:00:35.700-05:00

Materials needed:cutting shears 20 gauge floral wire greens, hubby uses douglas fir greens... always   -You can use anything you want. Whatever is growing in your yard perhaps? Any type of evergreen, boxwood, holly, juniper, rose hips, winterberry, a combination of any of these or something else altogether. a wire ring gardening gloves-this is a sappy project gather and cut a bunch of greens to

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-67064458618207026712011-11-27T16:01:00.001-05:002011-11-27T16:02:15.012-05:00

Who doesn't love a good find? You know I do! I found this dress somewhere along my travels in the last year, but I cannot remember where! All I remember is that I got it second hand and it was super cheap and I thought it would be perfect for Advent. Today marks the first Sunday of Advent. She wore it to church this morning.  Speaking of finds, Here are a few that are now down at my space at

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-48796428332174778962011-11-22T20:29:00.001-05:002011-11-23T08:43:16.827-05:00

We have been busy, busy, busy around here... For years my  husband has been making his beautiful, fresh,  hand-tied for friends and family. This year we decided to step it up. We will be at several craft shows in the coming weeks. This weekend is Lime Valley Mill for a three day show.  This is the garage/workshop-smells like Christmas around here for sure!Have a very blessed Thanksgiving!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-3397597105807101772011-11-06T20:55:00.002-05:002011-11-06T21:11:27.436-05:00

Last night we went to a fundraiser at our church for the youth group.It was so much fun to get out!And look what I won at the chinese auction.An ice cream fixin's basket, a beauty basket, and......... One of Beth's quilt's!!!I was so hoping to win and I screamed when I did.Thank you Beth, I love it! It also came with these treats for the littlest one.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-63053524889516033262011-11-03T06:57:00.006-04:002011-11-03T07:11:46.645-04:00

This scripture verse really popped out at me this morning as I was praying for a couple of friends. Rejoice in Hope,endure in affliction, perservere in prayer.Romans 12:12

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-28615593704082762702011-11-01T09:19:00.001-04:002011-11-01T09:57:29.694-04:00

We live in a great neighborhood. One of the girls is expecting in the next couple of weeks and we wanted to show her we cared by taking her out to lunch. Sadly, we were unable to coordinate between everyone's schedules. So what we decided to do was make a "shower in a basket". After trick or treating last night we all met outside and went over to her house, knocked on her door and yelled "trick

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-81501834219450840492011-10-28T13:26:00.002-04:002011-10-28T13:41:07.680-04:00

Last day of lessons for the season... She has looked forward to this time of being able to ride. She'll miss these gals.Until spring...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-1835194778642566682011-10-27T06:13:00.004-04:002011-10-27T06:24:41.150-04:00

I would love to got to this Christmas Open House! I have been to Lucketts only once before. This place is a feast for the eyes!Here is where I posted pictures of our trip a couple of years ago.Anyone, anyone??It's only a little over 2 hours away according to mapquest.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-27570060496019959292011-10-26T06:10:00.002-04:002011-10-26T06:42:56.107-04:00

Recently, dd7 went to a "gnome" birthday party. Our wonderfully creative neighbor came up with all sorts of gnome themed activities. They went on a gnome hunt, made gnome homes out of leaves, acorns and other things they found outside, tractor rides, miniature food...so fun!Our daughter is forever crafting some idea. She made this little gnome pillow for a gift. I assisted her only with sewing on

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-35682464426660012352011-10-23T16:46:00.004-04:002011-10-23T17:39:53.584-04:00

Mommy is playing with her new camera... I am getting into things I probably shouldn't be... Me, showing off my new Janie and Jack dress that Mommy thrifted for just a couple of dollars... Taking off my shoes..........again. Finally, me doing my best Get Smart impression.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-28311897238938478052011-10-23T13:58:00.002-04:002011-10-23T14:23:42.433-04:00

The dahlias have been exceptional this year-have no idea why...We found a new source for rosehips,along the side of the road. (hehehe)We are planning on participating in some craft shows this holiday season with hubby's fresh, hand tied wreaths and my greenery arrangements, hence the need for rosehips.He went and cut these yesterday-oh the things he does for me... We went to an auction yesterday

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-56260327671632188202011-10-20T08:13:00.002-04:002011-10-20T08:43:56.118-04:00

Recently, I was thinking I would really like to get a potting bench for my husband. He has been using his workbench in the garage. Which is fine, I just thought it would be nice and more practical for him.The very next morning I found this bench at a tag sale on a farm. It was outside in a part of their yard where cows frequented. I asked the owner if it was for sale. She hadn't even realized it

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-65040079304402014342011-09-23T13:57:00.003-04:002011-09-23T14:16:41.349-04:00

My dd19 made these granny squares. I absolutely love them! They are so vibrant and very vintage hip. She is planning on joining her brother at college for spring semester-God willing. In the mean time she is working very hard at two jobs socking away money for tuition. In her down time she is busy making a quilt and a granny square blanket and planning the coolest dorm room ever!! This week I

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-72741861721418117872011-09-08T19:39:00.002-04:002011-09-08T19:48:28.695-04:00

We are fine here. There are many, many people being terribly effected by this major flooding. For the locals, this is Pitney Rd. near Weis. The experts say the worst is yet to come over night Friday into Saturday morning.May God bless and comfort all those who are suffering because of this.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-83961226706439845382011-08-30T16:19:00.002-04:002011-08-30T16:34:47.547-04:00

We went peach picking today. She loved this game... We gave them to her and she threw them really hard into the basket. They will need to be canned right away. I'm so glad Hubby likes to can. This reminds me of a Mary Engelbriet notepad I have that says... Step out on a limb...that's where the fruit is. I made some tomato soup with just about the last of the tomatoes today. It is so

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-50787920814748868542011-08-29T11:56:00.005-04:002011-08-29T12:57:05.794-04:00

Like so many, it is something I never thought I'd do. Frankly, it's not something I had ever heard much about until moving to Lancaster 9 years ago with our then, 2 children in 5th and 6th grades. Here we are 9 years later, 2 more children 7 and 1. We homeschooled dd7 through preschool, I wrestled with the idea of Kindergarten and we wound up sending her. As it turned out I learned I was

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-75280405993253624102011-08-28T22:14:00.001-04:002011-08-28T22:22:20.179-04:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-79210847298785787712011-07-19T18:19:00.002-04:002011-07-19T18:31:47.771-04:00

Not sure what to do about these bangs of hers...cut them? keep them? She doesn't like hairbows... It is reeeealy hot in these parts this week. I spent her nap time making this little outfit. The skirt is made using the idea from this pattern. I added four layers of fabric and a bit of lace to the collar.I'm happy with the way it came out. And.....My daughter and I set up shop in another space

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-29466947551221058762011-06-30T12:30:00.004-04:002011-06-30T12:53:10.831-04:00

June has flown by. It's been rather busy around here, all good stuff.There has been jam making, bread baking... skirt making, horse back riding lessons begun... Had the first one the other day and she loooooved it!!!Black raspberry picking, YUM!I turned another year older and last but not least, My daughter and I opened a stand locally where locals peddle there handmades. So far so good. Very

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-67780704214143252452011-06-13T16:38:00.002-04:002011-06-13T17:15:03.971-04:00

Our baby girl turned 1 this weekend!!!I often think, how did I/we ever get so blessed to get to do this all over again?!I am in awe of God's ways!If I have learned anything in my life thus far it is that His ways are far better, beautiful, wonderful, exciting and absolutely perfect and I don't want to get in the way of them.Wish I had learned that a bit earlier in my life... We just finished our

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-29662693931099178022011-05-16T06:35:00.002-04:002011-05-16T06:46:11.615-04:00

Looking out the kitchen window the other day, I saw dd7 and her friendmunching away among the lettuces. They weren't completely happy with the leafy taste. I gave them each a little ranch dressing for dipping and the munching continued until bellies were full. It was a precious sight.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-57744638433379800172011-04-27T06:45:00.005-04:002011-04-27T07:19:45.188-04:00

Baby's first time on a swing at the park. She absolutely loooved it!Pretty flowers. I ran into Wal-mart really early the other morning and got these beautiful roses for Free! They were giving them away.I'm still enjoying them.Delicious asparagus from the garden.We like it roasted on about 450 for about 15+ min drizzled with olive oil with a little sprinkle of kosher salt and cracked pepper. And

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-17152972517839982162011-04-08T18:01:00.002-04:002011-04-08T18:10:01.989-04:00

Lots of this... A new curtain for my kitchen window... which I didn't love... So...I made this one instead. Bad picture, but it is bright and happy and I am enjoying it.I'll get a better picture just as soon as we have a bright sunny day, which cannot happen soon enough. Too much rain...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-73450185759844940782011-04-03T16:30:00.001-04:002011-04-03T16:32:55.583-04:00

photos by big sissy

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-1939736320361070642011-03-31T09:25:00.004-04:002011-03-31T09:49:06.459-04:00

Are sure this isn't April Fool's Day because this morning has been a joke...First, the toilet overflows and everyone just stands there watching as I run around trying to contain and clean up all the water...Then, after I took a shower, I went to my room, locked the door and was almost finished getting dressed my dd7 jumps out from behind my bed and yells SURPRISE!! I was surprised all right...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-75640745658053351532011-03-22T16:38:00.008-04:002011-03-22T17:11:49.379-04:00

I asked this sweet Amish woman if I could take a picture of her work, she allowed me to take a picture of her but said she would'nt pose. These baskets are beautiful made by her and her husband.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-43504619443487463592011-03-01T06:12:00.003-05:002011-03-01T06:46:37.682-05:00

A few favorites from the last month... I love paninis. I don't have a panini maker. I have made them just in the frying pan with another pan pressed down on it-worked very nicely. This one was made in my waffle maker. Delicioso!Spinach, cheese, and tomato on whole wheat.It takes all of about two minutes on the waffle maker. My dd18 found a recipe in fitness magazine for this calzone.Yo can't

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-29761855848802312272011-01-17T16:35:00.004-05:002011-01-17T17:06:19.157-05:00

Yesterday when I woke up I was feeling kind of sad that my son was heading back to school after Christmas break. Actually I still have a little lump in my throat as I write this. Yes, I'm used to it by now, but it still stings a little every time he leaves. As I was getting ready for Mass it occurred to me I should ask my friend Beth to come over for a visit. I thought maybe we could sew

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-73626140783231242522011-01-14T06:19:00.005-05:002011-01-14T07:49:07.542-05:00

I'm taking a picture of my daughter taking a picture of granola!!Lol!The recipe.I have made this recipe in the crockpot and it was great. This time I made it in the oven because I didn't have as much time. I put the two trays in the oven at 250 degrees turning every 15 minutes for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. I will never buy granola again! So delicious! My daughters and I love it on our yogurt.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-74937727430458216982011-01-11T17:11:00.002-05:002011-01-11T17:16:02.883-05:00

Daddy made a little ice skating rink in the backyard. Which is, at this moment, packed with the neighborhood kids.Fun, fun!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-44482222713919147682011-01-08T14:01:00.002-05:002011-01-08T14:31:13.241-05:00

On the dining room table! There was a time when I would not have been okay with this. ;)As our family has grown and our home has not, we use every bit of it's space, this room is now the kitchen/dining/classroom/and sometimes rec room.I found this set at a Cracker Barrel on our way home from Florida last month. You can turn any table into a ping pong table. We've been having fun with it! This

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-49398585555764716022010-12-31T09:36:00.004-05:002010-12-31T09:43:33.339-05:00

some questions to reflect on...over hereMay God bless you and yours.peace,amy

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-16134776058242226812010-12-22T20:22:00.003-05:002010-12-22T20:28:54.050-05:00

That they have each other to share all this fun stuff with.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-7534677275883192412010-12-20T10:36:00.006-05:002010-12-20T15:46:26.472-05:00

This Christmas we decided to do something different. Instead of adding to the "stuff" we have, my husband and I decided our gift to our children and ourselves would be to be a trip to Florida to spend time with family.We started off in Central Florida to see Grandma and Grandpa and it was so wonderful to be with them. We don't see them enough but we treasure the time we get to be together.There

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-50604258938900227052010-12-11T04:24:00.002-05:002010-12-11T04:44:27.950-05:00

I asked dd18 to pick up a new compact for me yesterday. Look what I found when I woke up this morning. I love this perfume! I wouldn't buy it for myself. What a treat!Thoughtful girl, thank you Love. She is aware that I am not feeling fabulous about my physical appearance at the moment. I have the misfortune/fortune-not completely sure-of gaining weight after pregnancy and not during. Happens

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-38076885890990314382010-11-30T08:07:00.003-05:002010-11-30T09:03:32.535-05:00

you win some... you lose some...Where does the time go!?Baby girl will soon be six months old. She is such a wonderful, happy baby!We have been busy around here. We began homeschooling ourlittle one (dd6) this fall. I was so apprehensive about the whole thing, for so many reasons. But after much prayer, really felt in my heart this is where God was leading us. As we head into December, I can

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-7167347208418046852010-09-18T18:54:00.001-04:002010-09-18T18:56:42.607-04:00

To my 6 year old----"If you don't stop crying right now you are not watching Lawrence Welk tonight".Gotta run it starts in 4 minutes!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-72014669828295755572010-08-05T10:55:00.004-04:002010-08-05T11:02:54.150-04:00

She has most definitely risen to the occasion of being a big sister. She has been so, so sweet with the baby and such a big help lately. I think there was a bit of uncertainty on her part when the baby was first born-that has faded away.She was the baby for so long, so of course it is an adjustment. We are so proud of her! photo by big sissy (t-shirt tie dyed with big sissy too)

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-24760966102478163572010-08-01T15:17:00.002-04:002010-08-01T15:21:27.474-04:00

Prayer for GenerosityDearest Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve You as You deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labor and not ask for reward, save that of knowing that I am doing Your will. Amen. St. Ignatius Loyola

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-3685621718991176902010-07-04T12:57:00.002-04:002010-07-04T13:12:49.913-04:00

Wow, if our lives weren't full before, they certainly are now.It's been a busy year. Our son finished his freshman year of college, our dd17 almost 18, graduated high school and is dating this fine young man. She is preparing for college next semester. Little one finished up kindergarten... And of course we welcomed our littlest one a few weeks ago...Here she is at 2 weeks.I can't describe how

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-66928235856218377972010-06-21T11:39:00.001-04:002010-06-21T11:48:19.835-04:00

photos by big sissy

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-62007456766883548082010-06-15T18:14:00.002-04:002010-06-15T18:20:42.674-04:00

Finally, she is here...We are thrilled, she is perfect!Here are a few pictures from the past few days...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-26040249146414580252010-06-08T14:48:00.003-04:002010-06-08T15:20:15.981-04:00

This beautiful baby quilt was made by my dear friend Beth. I absolutely love it! Beth wants all the quilts she makes to be used up and probably not hung up. Dear Beth, I promise to not keep this quilt on the wall forever. It's just so pretty I am really enjoying just looking at it every time I walk by the room, it is perfect, it is a work of art, and so cheerful and I promise that someday it will

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-28889065468401374852010-06-07T13:39:00.000-04:002010-06-07T13:43:31.867-04:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-22839349579393808792010-06-06T21:45:00.002-04:002010-06-06T21:56:30.308-04:00

Well, this weekend my daughter graduated high school. Woohoo!!!Last year I was feeling so weepy with the prospect of our firstborn graduating. This time around I am relieved, happy, and so proud of her that after much perseverance and many challenges she is finally done and ready to begin the next chapter of her life. Dearest daughter, We are all so very proud of you! You did it! God has an

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-79232702530220517782010-05-04T20:16:00.003-04:002010-05-04T20:30:28.041-04:00

Just heard about this today. I received a request from a neighbor/for a neighbor that will be having surgery this week.http://www.takethemameal.com/This really simplifies things.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-18426326873575486322010-04-25T20:15:00.002-04:002010-04-26T06:48:21.810-04:00

self portrait by the artist in the family...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-42093357780312149962010-04-15T09:19:00.008-04:002010-04-15T10:20:34.432-04:00

Several months ago I attended weekday Mass at a parish not my own. I had been searching the previous week or two for a good pregnancy book. You know one of those week by week ones to refresh my memory regarding the different changes my body would be going through. You would think by one's fourth child I would not need much of a reminder, but let us not forget, mine are over the span of almost 2

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-84947666497223228382010-03-17T09:42:00.003-04:002010-03-17T10:03:37.301-04:00

A few things you may not know about me from reading this blog... I am 100% first generation Irish.My mother is from Donegal , my father is from Sligo. They both came to this country as young adults. They both have thick brogues-Dad more than mom.I can put on a pretty thick brogue myself -which makes my kids laugh. Every once in a while I will leave them a message on their voice mail in this

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-55236718047129985662010-03-15T20:51:00.003-04:002010-03-15T21:24:31.405-04:00

And so has my body...Wow, a few short weeks ago friends were still asking "when are you going to start showing?" Now I feel like I look like my due date is not all that far off--eek! At my OB appointment last week the doctor informed me that this little princess is measuring two weeks bigger. No, that doesn't mean she will be early, it means she is BIG! My sister weighed in at a whopping 11 lbs.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-42274947502649200492010-02-26T15:54:00.002-05:002010-02-26T16:33:01.632-05:00

Oh, I have missed blogging... My intention is to keep this little blog rolling along. I enjoy it! These last months have been way too full and I have been way too tired. The nesting has begun, for sure! There is so much I want to do in the house and attempting to do it before the baby comes seems like as good of an excuse as any. In the last few months I have painted ds18's room, which is now

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-12958085524373200592010-01-17T18:16:00.003-05:002010-01-17T18:39:07.100-05:00

(Thank you for your prayers and concern left in the comments on the last post. We appreciate them. We are doing just fine. Much better since we got a diagnosis, not knowing was worse than knowing. Life is good, God is faithful, all is well.) To me a great craft project idea must have at least some of the following characteristics: Must be simple enough to complete in couple of hours, tops!I must

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-30579060359690384042010-01-10T16:08:00.003-05:002010-01-10T17:05:11.210-05:00

The theme of my life always seems to be the same...Trust in Him. God is always giving our family new reasons to trust in Him. New circumstances in which there is simply no other reasonable option but to completely rely on His mercy, His care, His providence, and His wisdom, that He alone knows what we need. This unexpected and most welcome pregnancy at "advanced maternal age" (boy, am I sick of

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-29673077968407153022009-12-15T16:09:00.001-05:002009-12-15T16:10:42.125-05:00

Oh, how I treasure these moments...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-28803143800006857642009-12-10T04:40:00.004-05:002009-12-10T08:56:42.896-05:00

I'm biased I know, but I love this little piece by my daughter. If you can't make it out, it's "LIVE" spelled out in sign language. I've mentioned before our two oldest children are hearing impaired. DD17 started wearing hearing aids at 22 months old, and rebelled from the beginning. She never wanted to be seen as "different".God has allowed some heavy crosses in her young life, this one not

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-3832357039827204782009-11-30T11:32:00.002-05:002009-11-30T11:36:39.041-05:00

I made a little addition to the blog on the sidebar. God's ways are strange and wonderful!! Next year we will have 2 in college, 1 in 1st grade and an infant.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-53950501672624783852009-10-28T08:50:00.004-04:002009-10-28T09:37:23.738-04:00

This was the last of the flowers from the garden for the year. Pretty, pretty! (This picture doesn't have much to do with this post-but I liked it) It's been a while, I know. I saw my sister this weekend who mentioned my blog and she was wondering if I was depressed because I hadn't written anything since my son went off to college. This fall has brought lots of changes, perhaps more than I was

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-34253769950086225542009-08-19T18:36:00.006-04:002009-08-19T19:47:11.984-04:00

Well, these last weeks of summer are flying by...Busy, busy, busy getting our son ready to go off to college. I have been walking around the house today, bursting into spontaneous tears more times than I care to admit.He's been packing up his room, his toiletries, school supplies, his new linens, clothes, snacks, water bottles, laundry supplies etc... . Today, in the midst of all this packing and

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-19906233301635974382009-07-18T08:29:00.003-04:002009-07-18T08:51:09.755-04:00

There is this little itty bitty truck stop not too far from us that I have always wanted to try. I think we stopped years ago and it was smoky, so we went on our merry way. Since smoking is now outlawed in restaurants in these parts we gave it another try. Guess what? I thought it was totally cool. A real throw back... It reminds me of a place we would go as a family when I was a kid on vacation

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-23700475966188686732009-07-09T08:59:00.005-04:002009-07-09T12:38:00.266-04:00

Just really enjoying the simple things... She wanted to make this "safari hat" out of carrot tops. Hulling peas... Lots of library... tadpoles... sightseeing in nearby places... and lots of just enjoying the garden in full bloom... You'll find me here... and here for a little while every afternoon. Trying to keep up with what is coming from the garden. We are eating lots of yummy roasted

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-20519550300216992802009-06-30T09:55:00.005-04:002009-06-30T10:01:56.848-04:00

Me: What were you doing?Her: Just havin some water...Me: Anything else?Her: and some cherriesMe: Anything else?Her: No, nope, nothing else...Me: Did you have any sprinkles?Her: Yes?Me: Good answer!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-76518205387314686622009-06-18T15:05:00.000-04:002009-06-18T15:09:50.511-04:00

black raspberries... blueberries... cabbage, onions, potatoes, carrotts... broccoli is on the menu this week... can't wait for tomatoes... Have a great day!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-68199161887944289262009-06-15T06:14:00.008-04:002009-06-15T07:52:56.313-04:00

This weekend my family and I went down to the Washington D.C. area for a conference. In many ways it felt a little like National Lampoon's Vacation. What went wrong:1.The National Zoo was half closed so we couldn't see much and it was so hot!2. 3 kids, technically one 18, 16 and 5 year old squished in the backseat on a long car ride.3.It is a major feat to find parking in Washington D.C. on a

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-16523700093925570312009-05-29T05:58:00.003-04:002009-05-29T07:41:03.145-04:00

He did it! I mentioned a while back that I would be a puddle when this week came upon us-I wasn't kidding, I have been. What a week!God has been so very good to this child! We have witnessed many miracles in his life.There have been so many ups, downs, challenges and triumphs through his educational career. Many having to do with the fact he has a moderate bilateral sensorinueral hearing loss.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-36382376526771474462009-05-21T13:02:00.005-04:002009-05-21T20:11:07.206-04:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-53185967243976237462009-05-18T11:20:00.004-04:002009-05-18T11:25:10.968-04:00

Oh, the concentration... The sense of personal satisfaction. The blissful solitude... It's written all over her face.I can relate

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-23264831541743089812009-05-11T09:34:00.004-04:002009-05-12T06:19:41.388-04:00

I have been a part of Virtual quilting bee since January. I think we have 16 participants from all over the country. Each month one of the ladies sends out a bit of fabric and a few suggestions of what they would like for their quilt and we create blocks and send them back.Somehow I got a little behind...Here is one where the lovely lady sent me this Celtic print and requested a cross theme. And

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-38185724492003139992009-05-10T08:09:00.000-04:002009-05-10T08:10:23.274-04:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-61034674829939888292009-05-08T12:18:00.002-04:002009-05-08T12:22:11.093-04:00

We have achieved shoe-lace tying success! Bunny ears method, it's just how we roll.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-19143636182744126892009-05-07T06:19:00.005-04:002009-05-07T06:39:13.814-04:00

OK, I have never made this type of quiche before, I usually make a crustless quiche. I figured, how hard could it be, I came up with my own recipe.It looks worse than it is. I think I put in about 2 eggs too many. It was delicious! The spinach is from the garden. The garden and greenhouse are starting to produce. We have had a couple of cucumbers, zucchini, romaine lettuce, red leaf lettuce,

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-58659939397768227672009-05-03T06:42:00.007-04:002009-05-03T07:04:15.691-04:00

God is good! All went well! The awkward, obligatory corsage and butoneer exchangewent seamlessly... ( I could not get this picture straight). awww.... A few of the parents surprised everyone and chipped in for a limo ride to the celebration, that was so nice of them. I guess there were about 25 that came back here afterwards. What a great group of kids!I was so impressed by this lovely group of

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-81215983968964746872009-04-28T08:50:00.003-04:002009-04-28T08:59:45.223-04:00

that I was going to be a puddle... Our son brought home his cap and gown yesterday. Graduation is not until the end of May. This week is jam packed with senior activities including Prom, followed by a post prom party here-eek what was I thinking, (just kidding, I'm happy to do it). Prom happens to fall on his 18th birthday. My little boy is growing up... sniff.....bwaa wa wa... Does every mom go

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-8715525872008261252009-04-24T07:23:00.005-04:002009-04-24T11:10:21.383-04:00

email to my sister from my brother in law, (that she shared with me and now I'm sharing with you =)On my run today, I came across this guy who asked if he could join me and he ran right beside me for almost 4 miles--in flipflops, a button-down shirt with only the top button done around his neck (like a cape), a big straw sombrero and a staff! We chatted about all kinds of stuff, and he told me he

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-90538217108819380482009-04-12T19:05:00.004-04:002009-04-12T19:22:50.246-04:00

I don't say this very often but these things are justtoo much fun not to tell you about. If possible, I highly recommennd purchasing one immediately. The package promises hours of fun and it delivered!She had a ball! (ahem) and so did I! Enjoy this blessed Easter season and may your days be filled with joy!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-51027548803008705512009-04-08T20:03:00.002-04:002009-04-08T20:13:18.480-04:00

Hubby has done this with the kids every year for the last 17 years. He likes me to pick up one of those new fangled kits at the store. In the spirit of using up what you have, I suggested pulling out the food coloring and vinegar. He balked just a bit, but in the end he agreed to do it my way (hehe). Worked like a charm! But how do you get this stuff off? May God bless us all as we move into

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-67952037447973647412009-04-08T17:36:00.002-04:002009-04-08T17:39:18.264-04:00

Some can participate, some cannot. What a great idea. Check out Lulu and Tutz for more info.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-55693609218283915212009-04-06T13:52:00.004-04:002009-04-06T14:14:39.179-04:00

By the way, because I know inquiring minds want to know, she said yes! I am soooo ready for some consistant sunshine.I am grateful for the outside time we had over the weekend. We picked up some fruit trees. Can't wait to see how these all pan out. We have never had fruit trees before. The thought of tree ripened fresh fruit, mmmm...Our big girl helper... at least for a while. It's raining here

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-80356099247202044062009-04-01T07:31:00.002-04:002009-04-01T07:43:50.588-04:00

My son, posing under duress early this morning...He had to get to school early to ask a girl to the senior prom-hope she says yes!!Or I'll be in even more trouble for posting this! The senior festivities will begin this month. Such an exciting time! This past week our son portrayed Maurice, Belle's Dad in his high school performance of Beauty and the Beast. It was so fun to watch him on stage as

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-38328598667600315072009-03-30T14:13:00.001-04:002009-03-30T14:16:28.787-04:00

From my daughter's sketch book.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-50089448844279529962009-03-23T10:21:00.005-04:002009-03-23T10:36:07.932-04:00

Spring has sprung and the greenhouse is blooming! We will hopefully get some early cucumber and zucchini this year. Hubby re-planted the strawberry patch yesterday. It must be done every 3 years. All the plants must be pulled, the ground weeded and the soil turned over and the strawberry plants re-planted. Lord, may our garden bear abundant fruit to enjoy and to share.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-59608086423421311612009-03-22T10:12:00.003-04:002009-03-22T10:34:51.936-04:00

Just wanted to share a couple of blogs that I have found inspiring lately... Pioneer WomanLike Merchant Ships -thriftiness personified!By Sun and Candlelight I'm new to Pioneer Woman. I love her blog! Check out the cooking section. Yum!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-84884835341269911152009-03-21T08:21:00.009-04:002009-03-21T09:29:15.480-04:00

As we went out to get the paper this morning... We saw this wonderful sight overhead. We tend to get lots of hot air balloons blowing by from now until late summer. During the hot summer nights when the windows are open I have been woken up early in the morning by the sound of flames being turned up, that's how close they get. One time, several years ago, a brightly colored balloon landed in our

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-63084492536172331172009-03-08T11:54:00.002-04:002009-03-08T11:58:43.517-04:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-38048202661626252542009-02-23T13:03:00.006-05:002009-02-23T13:16:24.181-05:00

I was at a lovely luncheon the other day at a friend's house. We celebrated 4 February birthdays of some ladies in our neighborhood moms group.I wanted to give each mom a little something.I made these quick gift bags from the fabric stash. I tied each package in some satin blanket binding I picked up at a thrift shop at some time for about a nickel. Put one of my favorite indulgences inside, Mrs.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-56044120355934118342009-02-17T10:13:00.004-05:002009-02-17T10:43:57.034-05:00

Lent begins one week from tomorrow...I am thinking, planning and praying about what I will do personally as well what we will do as a family this year. I want this to be a good Lent. I want to grow closer to the Lord. I want my family to grow closer to the Lord.When I have put myself aside and embraced this season fully, this gift of our faith fully, oh! how Glorious Easter morning has been.So I

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-53195628931931738922009-02-11T20:42:00.002-05:002009-02-11T20:56:41.607-05:00

Pretending its not winter anymore...Mmmm...still have some frozen berries in the freezer. This is a blackberry/strawberry smoothie. Planting candy onions. the little one wanted to know why "they" couldn't come up with a healthier name for them. A reasonable question... A walk to Grandma's this morning, it was 63 degrees here today. It was just a tease though... The fish pond... She found a

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-32558634754433584932009-02-09T10:41:00.003-05:002009-02-09T11:10:12.023-05:00

See the train swooshing by in this picture. That is how close my hotel room was to the railroad this weekend. This is taken from my window... Ah well...It was clean and comfy and I didn't hear it between 12:30-5:00am, I must have slept through. For that I am grateful. We took a trip to Long Island for a family party. It was lovely!We even took a quick trip to the beach Saturday morning.Here is

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-86290824981661178012009-02-02T09:21:00.002-05:002009-02-02T09:22:19.057-05:00

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-41731850243727773172009-01-29T06:14:00.004-05:002009-01-29T06:21:25.737-05:00

Why I finished my quilt block yesterday... Everything was covered in a layer of ice.I didn't want to be out in it for long, yet I find it amazing to look at.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-9162666946352162742009-01-28T17:08:00.003-05:002009-01-28T17:15:18.053-05:00

I am participating in a virtual quilting bee. This is a peek at my block for January. Here is a link to describe what a virtual quilting bee actually is. This was a perfect day to work on this project. Because it was a perfect mess outside with a few inches of snow and a half inch of ice on top of everything.The older kids were home from school and Mommy did some sewing. Have to go rustle up some

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-58868182286729685952009-01-26T19:22:00.003-05:002009-01-26T19:44:37.643-05:00

I made these clothes pin holders over the weekend. Did you hear that Mary Engelbreit's Home Companion and Country Home both ceased publication? Is it me or does it seem like businesses are closing their doors with little or no notice at all. These are some strange times folks...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-84541815687436648352009-01-23T16:02:00.005-05:002009-01-23T18:36:00.083-05:00

I read somewhere that an effective way to teach a child to ride a two wheeler is to first take off the pedals so they can learn balance.So today we did. Off came the training wheels, off came the pedals. She took a couple of whirls around the driveway...and back on went the pedals. and away went the girl.She had it down in just a couple of minutes, we couldn't believe it.Yeah!! A great day!!

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-83582306723991064042009-01-22T13:38:00.003-05:002009-01-22T13:55:10.139-05:00

I found this fun fabric in pristine condition at one of my favorite thrift stores a while back... I love the adorable scenes throughout the fabric. This reminds me so much of my childhood. Holly Hobby, Little House on the Prairie, all of it.I made this pillow today. The calico print and the yellow fabrics are from Moda I think. They are from my stash. I just listed it on my Etsy shop... My two

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-48115386934884194072009-01-19T16:38:00.002-05:002009-01-19T16:41:51.783-05:00

All this snow was unexpected today... But most appreciated...

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-1534619356329755972009-01-17T09:23:00.003-05:002009-01-17T09:38:07.841-05:00

My daughter got it in her head that she wanted to play guitar. So she went out with her Christmas money plus some hard earned cashola and purchased this beauty and a how to teach yourself guitar book. She'll do just that too. I can't help thinking about when she taught herself to ride her bike. She just wasn't "getting it" with our instruction. She insisted that we leave her alone and let her

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-44835330604184790492009-01-15T18:38:00.007-05:002009-01-15T19:51:44.861-05:00

A fun day, where should I begin, I guess I'll start at the end and work my way back...We made the yummiest lemonade... Because we had lemons sitting in the fridge that needed to be used up... and somebody got an idea in her head from this book... It's a really cute book, an oldie but a goody...picked it up at a yard sale. We went to the Pennsylvania Farm Show today. We just love those farm shows.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252045814505125115.post-52425585273832044862009-01-15T07:56:00.003-05:002009-01-15T08:26:40.576-05:00

This is what I was greeted by when I opened my eyes this morning. One little girl fully dressed for the snow. I don't even know how she found her boots, gloves and snowsuit, they were not readily available. I couldn't get this picture to rotate. I tried a couple of times and then I thought, well, this is more authentic because this is actually (kinda, sorta) how I saw her when I opened my eyes.

amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02333130499090974798noreply@blogger.com3