Goodbye 2011

Well, here is my last post for 2011. I'm sure I say this at the end of every year.... but what a year it has been! Moving back to VA, finally starting college, working at KWCC, etc. It's been a good year, but hard at times. Life every year there are those ups and downs, but God continues to be faithful.
Something I have learned this year is that sports is not everything. This sport season has been a hard one for me with the Colts 2-13 and Auburn 7-5, along with the possibility until late of there being no NBA. God has really worked on my pride in this area. It always seemed that I had a team to brag on.... but not this year.

Another thing God has been teaching me lately is patients. I have never paid attention to this before, but most Christmas songs are all about falling in love! Not the best for a single girl like me. Rather than listening to non-stop Christmas music, I focused more on SGM cd Looked Upon. One song in particular, Thy Way, Not Mine.

Thy way, not mine, O Lord
However dark it be
Lead me by Thine own hand
Choose out the path for me, for me

Smooth let it be or rough
It will still be the best
Winding or straight, it leads
Right onward to Thy rest

C: I dare not choose my lot
I would not, if I might
Choose Thou for me, my God
So I can walk aright

Take Thou my cup, and it
With joy or sorrow fill
As best to Thee my seem
Choose Thou my good and ill

Not mine, not mine the choice
In all things great or small
Be Thou my guide, my strength
My wisdom and my all, my wisdom and my all

God has really given me a peace lately with being single, something that can only come from Him! As 2012 approaches, I'm praying that I can lean on Him as I go down the path He has set for me. I know it's gonna be smooth at times, and then rough... but He has made it good!

Happy New Year!

God Rest Ye Merry Gentelmen

Here is my dad, Kelsey and Bryan Holt playing during our Christmas Eve candle light service, performing the song God Rest Ye Merry Gentelmen with our church choir. Enjoy!

No More Bio!!!! Woo hoo!

Sorry I have not been posting this term... Biology was a killer! I knew this going into the class as they tell you on the phone, "You do know this is our hardest course?" I really do now! It was a challenge for sure! One reason was the course... they had you read sections from the material, and then have questions that were not even related on the test. Then my group for our discussion board, did not really act like a team. There were 4 of them that would do the work themselves and post it days before it was even due. Our teacher on numerous times emailed and mentioned on our DB that we need to work together as a team, and that it was not due till Monday. Did they listen? Nope! They posted without the team still. At that point, I gave up working with them, and posted what I needed to post. And my teacher was gracious enough to give me 100% on those!

This was a major struggle for me, as last term I was making all A's, and this time I was failing. My other class, Apologetics, I was pretty much winging, since Bio was taking up most of my time during the week.  Other than my teacher grading poorly for my spelling on most of my papers, I scored almost 100 on everything else. It was perfect that I was taking these two classes together. I felt like I was being tested on my knowledge of the gospel, God, and Christianity, everything I have been taught by my dad and at KingsWay.

I hate to say that during this term, I was not trusting God like I should have been. I was taking things into my own hands. 6 weeks into the 8, that began to change. I didn't care what the outcome was... I left it up to God. I was still failing Bio, and had a B in Apolo, but I left it up to Him! I turned on worship music for everything... studying and tests. This helped me to focus on Him rather than taking things into my own hands.
All the way up to the last day of Bio, I had an F. But by the grace of God, my teacher graded on a curve due to most of the students failing!!! I passed the class!!!! But not only that, I made a C!!! What a gift from God! All I wanted was to pass the class.... He is so kind! My other class I made a B, and that's ok with me!

So what else has been new? Well... I will be playing soccer again in January. Which I am totally thrilled about! Also, this past Sunday, my friend Kristen and I went to get our noses pierced. What an experience that was! Going to a tattoo parlor was an experience alone.... Then there was a chance I could pass out like the last time I got something pierced. I was trying to stay calm. I didn't want to pass out... and Kristen was slightly freaking out. After much waiting, panicking, numbing cream, and anticipation, we finally did it!

Well, I know I say this a lot... But I hope to be blogging again... and a lot more often.
Merry Christmas!!!!

Carol of the Bells

For the Christmas season, my family, along with Bryan Holt, put on this special treat for KingsWay yesterday (December 18th, 2011)! It was totally awesome!!!!!! Rock on... and Enjoy!

Thanksgiving #2

Oops. I totally forgot about blogging! My biology class is killing! But I'll be sure to set an alarm on my iPhone to blog!

Today I am thankful for God's never failing, faithfulness. Yesterday marks one year to the day God turned my whole world around. He had other plans for me. At the time I was heartbroken, I thought my world was literally over. But as I look back on the year, He is always faithful! To think that if He didn't change the plans, I wouldn't have moved with my family back to Virginia. I wouldn't be back here with my friends and church family. And also, I wouldn't have the lessons I learned on this hard road He has taken me down.
I think of the verse in 1 Peter. "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you."(5:10)
It's only by His grace that I can say that through this past year I did suffer, but through that suffering He restored and strengthened me. And for that I am so thankful!

Thanksgiving #1

Well, it's that time of year again. Thankful November. I really enjoyed posting last year about things I am thankful for that day.
I am amazed that this year has flown by! I can't believe it's November already.

Today I am thankful for that God has blessed me with a wonderful job. How blessed I am to be back with my church family, and to be serving our children in the way that I am. I could not ask for a better opportunity! At times as I sit at my deck I realize, I am working with people I have known sense I was 8 years old. Not many people can say that! God is so faithful!!!

Happy November!

Channel 222

If you live in our house, you know when you get up in the morning that the TV is going to be on channel 222, the Fox News Channel (thanks to dad). Well, today when we turned on our TV, this is what was on Fox News. This is worth checking out! As Shepard Smith said today, "the world is weird..."

http://video.foxnews.com/v/1227017711001/exotic-animals-on-the-loose-in-ohio/

It's Been A Long Time....

Woooooooow! It's been over a month since I last posted. And I have no good reason to give to you, my readers, why I have not been posting. I have just been slacking.

Not much has happened in the last month, other than school, a trip to Pennsylvania, work, things going on at church, lots of hang out time with friends, and my 21st birthday.

I finished my first term of school this past week! Total EGG that I finished with an A!!! What a blessing that was! My next classes start on Monday, so please keep me in your prayers.

I have never been passed Maryland before, so it was a neat experience to travel north. We visited some old friends of my grandma's, who lived on the side of the mountain. On top of great fellowship, and lot of laughs, we had a time of worship which was so cool! We then traveled to the Amish country. What a different world they live in! I also saw a chocolate lab puppy. I so want one now!!! haha We had a blast having our first vacation with GG and Don. Next northern trip.... New York... here I come!!!

Can I just say that I love my church? I think I go to the best church ever! What a blessing it has been to be back at the church I grew up in? I was at my desk the other day, thinking... all these people I work with, I have known sense I was 8 years old. How cool is that? I bet most of you can't say that! haha At the moment I am doing our membership class, which I have really enjoyed. It's difficult being there at 8:30 in the morning before church, but it's been great refreshing on what we believe. Along with the singles community group, I am doing a book study on Hinds' Feet on High Places with some single girls in our church. If you have not read this book, I would encourage you to do so. I can totally relate with Much Afraid on so many levels. I'll try to get on here tomorrow to blog about the chapter that really stood out.

Saturday was my 21st birthday. All day I saw EGG's. I was so blessed. One way I saw how blessed I am, was my family I am surrounded by. Sorry everyone, but I have the best family in the world! And I'm not being biased. They are a gift from God! And after a wonderful day, He topped it off with a win for Auburn vs. Florida, and 100% on my test. I would say, this was my best birthday yet.

In closing, I'd like to share this verse.
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trails of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." -James 1:2-4

You Are EVERYTHING I Need

This is my new favorite song at the moment. With school starting up, I feel like I don't have time for anything else. To tell the truth, with other stuff plus school, I'm a bit stressed... and I'm not one to get stressed. Once again, I think God is really using this time in my life, as a working single and now college student, to put my trust in Him. It's not all about having a perfect grade... which at least I have an A in Humanities. He is everything I need! He is my strength in my weakness! 

2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

If you think of me, please pray for me during this time in my life. That I will trust God during this season He has me in! And also, that I can be able to see His grace through out my day. Because it's there! 

Psalms 90

I am making my way through Psalms... still. And last week I read chapter 90, From Everlasting to Everlasting. I loved it and thought I would share it. I really loved the verse 2. "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, for everlasting to everlasting you are God." He amazing is so amazing!!!

"Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
You return man to dust and say, "Return, O children of man!"
For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.
You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning:
in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers.
For we are brought to an end by your anger; by your wrath we are dismayed.
You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence.
For all our days pass away under your wrath; we bring our years to an end like a sigh.
The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away.
Who considers the power of your anger, and your wrath according to the fear of you?
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants!
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, and for as many years as we have seen evil.
Let your work be shown to your servants, and your glorious power to their children.
Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!"

A Snapshot from Life

09/05/2011 - Fall has began in VA

A Snapshot from Life

09/05/2011 - Oh how I want to go to that city and sit at a cafe with a cup of espressp looking off to the tower!

A Snapshot from Life

08/30/2011 - Georga Power trucks!

A Snapshot from Life

08/29/2011 - Studying by candlelight

A Snapshot from Life

08/28/2011 - Surveying the damage. It's only by God's grace that none of our many oak trees fell down, only a lim that broke our fence and another dad's tree stand!

A Snapshot from Life

08/27/2011 - Irene

A Snapshot from Life

08/26/2011 - She's a comin'!

A Snapshot from Life

(As some of you know, hurricane Irene came through this past weekend, causing us to lose power. So I am posting all the pictures I would have posted for A Snapshot from Life.)

08/25/2011 - Quiet-times outside are the best!

Interesting Morning...

So this morning I got up once again at 6:30 to take mom to work. And I must say, if you get up this early, you must be an alien... because I don't know how you do it. Anyways... to my morning.
It all started when I was getting ready, brushing my teeth, wetting my hair (I have to wet it every morning, because it's everywhere when I get up haha) Well, my cat, Snuggs goes in with my every morning. And while I was brushing my teeth, he was waiting by the door. He was staring at the corner where the hinges are. So when I was done, I told him he was standing at the wrong side of the door. He looked at me, and then walked over to the right side! It was so funny! It was like he knew what I had said!
Well, I dropped mom off at 7, and headed to Kroger to get some gas for the car. I'm sure I was a site to be hold. Wet hair, barely awake, zip-up hoddie unzipped, Colts t-shirt, Nike snap pants, and flip flops. As I was filling up, a Jehovah's Witness lady came over and started talking to me. hahaha I'm sure I looked like I had a hangover or something. She wanted to give me a booklet to read, and I told her I was a Christian. I'm sure she did not believe me, because I'm sure they get people saying that a lot to get them to shut up. Anyways, I took the booklet (I was not in the mood to talk) and as she was turning around, she started to talk about the earthquake yesterday. She asked me what I thought about it, and all I said was I thought it was interesting. haha She went on to tell me how she wasn't dressed when it happened, but later that night, when she felt the after shock, she was "dressed and ready". haha I knew exactly what  she was getting at!
That concludes my interesting morning... for now. I've got 4 more hours.

On another note. When a Jehovah's Witness comes to talk to you, what do you say? What are things you can say that won't get you into an argument? Any tips?

A Snapshot from Life

08/22/2011 - Goodbye get-together at the White's for Kristen. I'm gonna miss you, girl! Good luck at JMU! Love you!

A Snapshot from Life

08/22/2011 - And so it begins...

The outside "J"

Along with I Kissed Dating Goodbye, Crazy Love for small group and school, I am reading Game Day For the Glory of God by Stephen Altrogge.  If you don't know who Stephen Altrogge is, he is one of many Sovereign Grace's songwriter and well known songwriter, Mark Altrogge's son. I follow Stephen on Twitter, and really enjoy reading his daily tweets. Anytime I want a good laugh, I can count on Stephen Altrogge! Such as today this is what he said: @stephenaltrogge - For a moment today I thought I was beholding the glory of an angel. Then I realized that it was the brilliance of my dad's white legs.
I could go on and on about the things he tweets... but I'm sure you are wondering what this has to do with the title of this post. So, if you have a Twitter, you should follow Stephen Altrogge, or if not... get one to follow him. He's the best!
Now, on to the book.
In chapter two he was talking about where we get our talent. He uses MJ a lot (which I am not to fond of) as an example. "Michael Jordan's astonishing abilities were given to him by the Maker of all things. He didn't earn them, nor did he do anything to deserve them. They were generous gifts from a generous God. Similarly, any athleticism that you possess has been given to you by God as a gift." And how true that is! Yet, we don't seem to think about it at all. At least I didn't when I played basketball or soccer. The fact that I was able to bend my knees, lock onto the goal, and use my arms to shoot and make the basket, was not me! Nor was running at a rapid speed, toward a goal and goalie, and kicking my feet to make a goal. It was God giving me the gift of talent! What a gift I wish I had been thankful for!
Later he says; "Consider the simple act of shooting a basketball. Have you ever considered all that occurs in that second it takes to shoot the ball? First, the body must be positioned so that it's facing the basketball hoop. Then the brain must make a split-second judgment to determine trajectory needed to get the ball into the hoop. The brain then determines how much arm strength and hand movement are needed to get the ball moving toward the basket. Things become increasingly complex as more variables, such as a leaping defender, are thrown into the mix. All this takes place in the blink of an eye. A fadeaway jump-shot is truly amazing." There is a form to the perfect shot, I learned it on one of the many DVD's I would watch during my non-practice times. And even now, I can pick up a ball, and know exactly how to "fix" my shot if I'm off. But the way he describes this... is amazing! I have never heard it put that way, and I think knowing already what goes into a jump-shot, on top of this, is amazing! This is not something that was formed by goo, or from monkeys, or from a big bang. It's to much detail, it can only be from God! And what a gift such as sports, he has given us!
"If we receive such intense pleasure from sports, what must the One who invented all sports be like? If we receive such joy from watching Michael Jordan play basketball, what must the God who gave Michael his incredible talents be like?" I'm not a MJ fan (at all!!!), but I think about watching Peyton Manning, Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, Cam Newton, Blake Griffin, Dwight Freeney, Tim Tebow... those guys that my heart starts to pound every time they do something amazing, what must God be like? He gave Peyton Manning the arm to throw a ball across 100 years, what must He be like? He gave Blake Griffin the strength to dunk over three defenders and make the basket, what must He be like? He gave Cam Newton the ability to run and break through 11 guys and make a touchdown time and time again, what must He be like? He gave Lebron James the power to pull a fadeaway feet behind the 3 point and get the ball into a whole that is no bigger than 2 feet wide, what must He be like? I can only imagine! How great is our God!!!

A Snapshot from Life

08/20/2011 - Day at the river with the White family!

Lemon-Herm Chicken

Last night, I had the privilege of making dinner two nights in a row! From my NFL Cookbook, I made Lemon-Herb Chicken by former Cleaveland Browns' linebacker, Willie McGinest's. Along with a side dish from my Real Simple cookbook, Parsleyed Corn On the Cob. It was sooooooo good! And the plus side, it's not that expensive!
The Lemon-Herb Chicken;
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 3 Tbs fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tbs grated lemon zest
- 1 Tbs minced fresh thyme
- 2 tsp minced fresh sage
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, pressed through a garlic press
- 1 lb thin asparagus spears, ends trimmed
- 1 Tbs unsalted butter, plus more if needed
- lemon wedges

Trim chicken of any excess fat. Cut chicken in half horizontally to make 2 cutlets. In large bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice and zest, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic. Put chicken in bowl and mix with all but on Tbs of the marinade. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.
Meanwhile, bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 1 minute. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove chicken from bowl, allowing most of the marinade to drip off. Add half of the chicken to skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, turning once, until lightly brown nad no longer pink inside. Repeat with the remaining chicken, adding more butter if needed.
Wipe skillet with a paper towel and add the reserved Tbs of marinade. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 2 minutes.
Divide the chicken and asparagus among serving plates and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

The Parsleyed Corn on the Cob;
- 6 ears cor, shucked and halved
- 4 Tbs butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
- kosher salt and black pepper

Bring a large pot water to a boil. Add the corn and simmer just until tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and transfer to a serving dish.
Pour the butter over the corn and sprinkle with the parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.

*1 lemon is approximately 1 Tbs of zest and 3 Tbs of juice.
*We forgot to get parsley for the corn, so we used cilantro. It was just as good!

Family loved this! I would say it's a favorite!

Bon appétit!

History, History, History

Last week I signed up for my classes. And because Liberty has something wrong with their website for you to sign up for classes, you have to call. Well, I didn't have a very nice lady to talk to, and long story short I am taking history and humanities in the same term. I love history! Math and history are my to strong subjects. But I'm not to thrilled with taking two history's for my first term. So prayer would be much appreciated!
I am just reminded that this is one more thing God is using to help me to learn to trust Him. I'm not stressed, just kinda bummed. I'm also reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:1; "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven." He's got me doing two history subjects at once for a reason... maybe I'm going to love it. But please pray that when I start them next week, I will continue to trust God, and also, they would go smoothly since this is my first term heading back to school.

Banana Bread with Pecans

For a while I have had this recipe, Banana Bread with Pecans, that I found on my Food Network app on my iPhone. Last week we finally had enough "bad" bananas to make it, but then I didn't have enough butter. What are the odds? So this morning, before I went to work, I made it! And all I have to say is, I make a mean banana bread!!!! haha

It has in it;
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 overripe bananas
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sicks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- confectioners' sugar, for dusting (optional)

Preheat over to 350, and lightly grease a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
Mash 2 of the bananas with a fork in a small bowl so they still have a bit of texture. Set aside. In a large bowl, blend with mixer remaining bananas and sugar for about 3 minutes, until smooth. Mix in dry ingredients. Don't over blend. Fold in the nuts and the mashed bananas with a rubber spatula. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for about 10 minutes or so.

*If you know me well, you know I love chocolate. And I grew up with my Memo making banana bread with chocolate chips. So I put some in the batter along with the nuts. Either way is up to you!

Thanks to mom for taking it out of the oven for me when I was at work! And also sending me a picture. Now I can use it for my blog!

Bon appétit!

A Snapshot from Life

08/13/2011 - My sleeping baby

Lime and Chili Rubbed Chicken

Last Wednesday I made Lime and Chili Rubbed Chicken. This recipe was sent by email from my mom, and it sounded very delish! You are supposed to grill, but since we were out of gas, I was forced to bake it. (Which it said you can do if you would rather not grill.)

It calls for;
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp packed brown sugar
- 2 tsp grated lime peel
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp ground red pepper (cayenne)
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 lb)
- 2 tsp olive or canola oil

Heat grill or preheat oven to 375. If baking, line shallow baking sheet with foil. In small bowl, mix chili powder, brown sugar, lime peel, salt, garlic powder and ground red pepper. Rub both sides of chicken with oil, then with spice mixture.
Refrigerating the "rubbed" chicken 20 to 30 minutes before grilling or baking really enhances the flavor. But this is optional.
Place chicken on grill over medium heat. Cover grill; cook 10 to 15 minutes, turning once or twice, until juice of chicken is clear when center of thickest part is cut.
Or, back for 25-30 minutes.

*I kept the lime after I grated it, and squeezed some juice onto the chicken when it was ready to eat on the plate.
*We made baked beans, corn, and a salad to go with it, but any bbq side would go well.
The family and Caleb all said it was wonderful, and worth doing again! But the next time I do this meal, I hope to grill. And when I do, I'll be sure to blog about it.
Thanks to mom for the extra hands in the kitchen for this meal!

Bon appetit!

A Snapshot from Life

08/10/2011 - Creepy!

He Never Slips

"He is always and only good, no matter how strange and painful His ways with us.... But, as painful as His providence can be, we should trust that He is good, not get angry with Him. That would be like getting angry at the surgeon who cuts us. It might be right if the surgeon slips and makes a mistake. But God never slips." -John Piper

"Yes, Lord God, the Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments" -Revelation 16:7

The Gift of Singleness

The other morning I read the chapter in I Kissed Dating Goodbye about having patience while you are single. This is something I need to work on. Because my time is going to come, when the right guy is going to come into my life. "He wants us to learn the patience and trust necessary to wait for His perfect timing in all things. including our love lives." The part in Lord of the Rings comes to mind when Gandalf says "A wizard is never late, nor is he early, but he arrives precisely when he means to." Isn't that so true with God? He's never early, nor late, but He does things precisely when he means to. It's perfect!

Josh Harris says, "Just as spring's role is different from that of fall, so each of the seasons of our lives has a different emphasis, focus, and beauty. One is not better than another; each season yields its own unique treasures. We cannot skip ahead to experience the riches of another life season any more than a farmer can rush the spring. Each season builds on the one before. God has many wonderful experiences He wants to give to us, but He also assigns these experiences to particular seasons of our lives." As I look back on my life, I can see that He does. My life in the last 3 years has not been a pretty one, heck, it's been far from pretty. But He has used those seasons to bring me closer to Him. It wasn't easy, but I am so thankful for it!

How do we have patience? He says "Waiting for God's timing requires trusting in His goodness and wisdom. We develop patience as we trust that God denies us what we think is good only because He has something better for us--both now and in the future." Later he gives a quote from Elisabeth Elliot that I love; "We were being asked to leave the planning to God. God's ultimate plan was as far beyond our imaginings as the oak tree is from the acorn's imaginings. The acorn does what it was made to do, without pestering it's Maker with questions about when and how and why. We who have been given an intelligence and a will and a whole range of wants that can be set against the divine Pattern for Good are asked to believe Him. We are given the chance to trust Him when He says to us, '...if any man will let himself be lost for my sake, he will find his true self.'" I know for me, it's easier to trust on some days that He's got a plan than others, but I've found reading scripture helps. Reminding myself, He is in control. (Jeremiah 29:11) He even tells us not to fear, that He is our helper (Isaiah 41:13). (I bet you can tell what my favorite verses are? haha)

There is so much more from this chapter that I want to blog about but I don't want to bore you, or frighten you with a longer post than it already is. So I would encourage you to read this book, but if you don't have time, atleast read this chapter (#6), and let me know what you think. It's very helpful if you find yourself struggling with this as I do.

"God doesn't use our singleness to punish us. He has created this season as an unparalleled opportunity for undistracted devotion to God. And as a time for growth and service that we shouldn't take for granted or allow to slip by. One person rightly stated, "Don't do something about your singlehood--do something with it!".... Singleness is a gift. Let's rejoice in it and enjoy its opportunities today. Let's practice trusting God by pursuing His kingdom and His righteousness with all our hearts and by leaving the planning to Him."

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:" - Ecclesiastes 3:1

John 15:4-5

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
Isn't that so true? We can do nothing apart from him! He allows us to breathe, He allows us to swallow, He allows us to walk and sit and stand. The little things we don't think about during out daily lives, He allows to happen. Isn't He amazing?

A Snapshot from Life

08/07/2011 - Headed to GG and Don's for Kelsey's family party.

A Snapshot from Life

08/06/2011 - Claire Bear, Reese Pieces, Pieces, Rees, Reesa... whatever I call her, I love my Claire Reese!

Lasagna-Style Baked Ziti

Last night, rushing before community group, I made Lasagna-Style Baked Ziti from my Real Simple cookbook. It was amazing! I like lasagna, but I hate the ricotta cheese you put in it. It's just nasty. One of the very few foods I HATE. But I liked this cuz it was made with ricotta cheese, but it's all mixed in, and not a layer by itself.

- 12oz Ziti (about 4 cups)
- 1 Tbs olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 1 26oz jar marinara sauce
- 1 bunch of spinach, thick stems removed
- 1/2 cup ricitta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (2oz)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella (4oz)

Heat over to 400 degrees. Cook pasta according to box. When done, return it back to pot.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook till sofen, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the beef, 3/4 tsp of salt, and 1/4 pepper. Breaking up with a spoon, cook till no longer pink, 5 to 6 minutes.
Once cooked all the way, toss the pasta with the meat mixture, marinara sauce, spinach, ricotta, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan. Transfer to a 9x13 pan, and sprinkle with the mozzarella and the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and bake till cheese melts, 12 to 15 minutes.

*I'm not to big on spinach in my lasagna, so I didn't put as much as they call for, but either way is up to you.

Everyone said this is a keeper! And gave it 5 stars. And it's a very easy meal! Which is a plus.

Bon appetit!

A Snapshot from Life

08/02/2011 - Dogsitting Tucker

A Snapshot from Life

08/01/2011 - I got my acceptance letter to Liberty!!! (Yes, I blocked my address. haha)

"We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We Recount your wondrous deeds." -Psalms 75:1

Everything, He Holds In His Hands

Once again, God has been showing me He is in control and has a plan. Last week I started my job working at KingsWay as the KingsKids administrator. This was an answer to prayer! I am so excited to have this opportunity to serve my church.
Then, last month, I applied for Liberty University Online program. And on the 28th I found out I was accepted! I'm not sure what to expect with this, but I am so excited! He has given me a clear plath to take... for now. It could change at any moment, but I'll be doing Liberty Online to get an associates degree in Elementary Education. Then, if it's the Lord's will, I'll continue my education with Auburn Online. Like I said, this is the path I am taking, but it could change if it's what God wants.
Since we have moved down here, I've been discouraged (as I blogged about before), and God is just showing me that He has a plan... that His timing is perfect!
As Chris Tomlin would say in his song Unfailing Love, "And everything, You hold in Your hand. Still You make time for me. I can't understand." If God cars for the sparrows, why would He not care for me? (Luke 12:6-7)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope" -Jeremiah 29:11

A Snapshot from Life

07/31/2011 -Bought my second orchid. They remind me of my Granddaddy! Who I miss so much!

A Snapshot from Life

07/24/2011 - Late showing of Captain America with friends

Food for Thought....

Kelsey and my community group is going through the book Crazy Love by Francis Chan, and this past week we went through chapter 6. I'm not quite agreeing with everything he is saying, but I am enjoying it. At the start of the chapter, he talked about something that I have not quite stoped thinking about.

"When you are truly in love, you go to great lengths to be with the one you love. You'll drive for hours to be together, even if it's only for a short while. You don't mind staying up late to talk. Walking in the rain is romantic, not annoying. You'll willingly spend a small fortune on the one you're crazy about. When you are apart from each other, it's painful, even miserable. He or she is all you think about; you jump at any chance to be together.
In his book God Is the Gosple, John Piper essentially asks whether we are in love with God:
'The critical question for our generation--and for every generation--is this: if you could have heaven, with no sickness, and with all the friends you ever had on earth, and all the food you ever liked, and all the leisure activities you ever enjoyed, and all the natureal beauties you ever saw, all the physical pleasures you ever tasted, and no human conflict or any natural disasters, could you be satisfied with heaven, if Christ was not there?'"
I don't know about you, but what Francis Chan is talking about... I've been there! I know what that feels like, to talk to someone for hours, can't wait to send time with them, drive hours to be together. I've done that! But my quetion is this. If I was like that with my boyfriend, why am I not like that with God? How come I don't wake up early or stay up late to talk with God? How come I'm not longing to spend time with Him in my quiet time? How come I'm buying shoes, rather than buying a book that would teach me more about His sovereign grace? I want to be that way. I want to be satisfied in Christ alone! What would Heaven be without Him???? In Christ alone my hope is found. He is my light, my strength, my song. This Cornerstone, this solid ground. Firm through the fiercest drought and storm!

A Snapshot from Life

07/23/2011 - good times with great friends from Florida!

Parmesan-Dijon Chicken

Two nights ago I made Parmesan-Dijon Chicken. AMAZING! The whole fam said it's a keeper, and it's extremely easy! My mom sent it to me by email.

It calls for;
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
- 2 Tbs Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs (any flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 3/4 lb)

Heat oven to 375. Mix butter and mustard in shallow dish until well mixed. Mix bread crumbs and cheese in large plastic bag.
Dip one piece of chicken at a time into butter mixture, coating all sides. Then place in bag of bread crumbs, seal bag and shake to coat with crumbs mixture. Place chicken in single layer in ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
Bake uncovered 20 to 30 minutes, turning once, until juice of chicken is no longer pink when center of thickest pieces are out.
We made broccoli and mashed potatoes to go along with it.
Bon appetit!
(Sorry, forgot to take a picture.)

A Snapshot from Life

07/22/2011 - One hot day!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

I really like this passage.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (ESV)

Southwestern Beef Chili with Corn

Last night, frim my Real Simple cookbook, I made Southwestern Beef Chili with Corn. It was amazing!!!

It has;
- 1 Tbs olive oil
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 poblano or bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 2 Tbs tomato paste
- 2 15oz cans black beans, rinsed
- 1 Tbs chili powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (from 1 ear, or frozen and thawed)
- 1/2 cup grated Cheddar (2oz)
- 2 scallions, sliced

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the carrots, onions, and pablano and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add the beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, 3 to 5 minutes.Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, until it is slightly darkened, 1 minute. Stir in the beans, chili powder, 3 cups water, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the corn.
Divide the chili among bowls and top with the Cheddar and Scallions.

*I ended up using 1 lb of beef rather than 1/2, so because of that we used 1 Tbs more of the tomato paste, a little more chili powder, and the whole can of corn.
*We didn't have a whole bell pepper, so I used half a green and half a yellow. But mom and I were talking about next time using half a green along with a red. Make it more colorful!
Family all said it's a keeper!
On another note, in the proscess of making it, I got pepper juice in my eye. It has never failed that when I cook with peppers, I get it in my eye. I'm considering wearing goggles next time. haha

Bon appetit!

Swiss Chicken

Last week (don't remember the day) I made Swiss Chicken from Southside Church Richmond's (now Kingsway) cookbook Taste and See. My mom has made it in the past and we all love it, but this was my first attempt.

It calls for;
- 6 chicken breast halves
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 6 slices swiss cheese
- 1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Place Chicken in greased 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with garlic powder and pepper. Top each breast with cheese slice; set aside. Combine soup and milk, stirring until smooth. Pour over chicken. Sprinkle with stuffing mix and drizzle with butter. Bake chicken at 350 for 50 minutes or until chicken is done.

Along with this I made Broiled Asparagus to go along with it. Very good!
(Sorry, no picture.)

Bon appetit!

Cooking Adventures in June

Here starts my Cooking Adventures in our new home, but also the start of my adventures in Richmond.

-Chicken Casserole
     This is former Auburn player, Washington Redskins' QB (now Raiders), Jason
     Campbell. (Raiders tend to get Auburn players. haha) This was very, very easy, and
     everyone loved it! Along with it I made broccoli and corn.

-Chocolate Chip Cookies
     This recipe I got from my Food Network app from my iPhone. These aren't just any
     ordinary chocolate chip cookies. They are sooooo good. Don't believe me? Ask my
     family!

-Irish Soda Bread
     My mom sent this one to me by email. It's an Irish recipe! It would be a great thing
     to make when you have someone over for coffee in the morning. I didn't put any
     raisins because we didn't have any, but I think it would add a little more flavore to
     it.

-Barbecue Beef and Corn Shepherd's Pie
     Once again this is a recipe my mom sent me, and an Irish one. It's very easy to
     make... and it's a one dish recipe at that! (my favorite kind! haha) It's
     great if you are needing to go somewhere after dinner, such as community group...
     like I was.
     (Sorry, no picture)

-Buffalo Chicken and Potatoes
     Here is another recipe sent by my mother. Not everyone liked it because of the hot
     wing sauce, but dad and I thought it was pretty good.
     (Sorry, no picture)

-Speghetti with Bacon and Eggs
     This was amazing! It's from my Real Simple cookbook, and our first thought was we
     wouldn't like it... but we loved it! Lots of flavore! Dad and I like our fried eggs to not
     be cooked all the way, with the yoke still runny (or as we call it a sloppy chicken).
     That made it very good!

Cooking Adventures in May

Since the move, I haven't been staying on top of blogging... as I'm sure you gathered. Because of that, I am going to post all my Cooking Adventures by the month. I'll post the name of the dish, along with the side and a picture. But if you would like the recipe of one, feel free to email. I'm hoping from here on out, I'll stay on top of it. Enjoy!

- Lemon and Cracked Pepper Chicken
     This is San Francisco 49ers' Patrick Willis's recipe. It's very easy, and the whole
     family loved it. Along with it I made the following side...

- Broiled Asparagus
     From my Real Simple cookbook, this as well was very easy! And is now a family
     favorite. We make it all the time.

- Sugar cookies
     I got this recipe from my Food Network app on my iPhone. One thing I like about
     this recipe more than others, they are very gooie and are not as sweet as most sugar
     cookies. They are also great with coffee!

- Pork wtih sauteed Granny Smith apples
     This recipe is also from my Real Simple cookbook, and is very... well, different.
     Some of the family liked it... others did not. But Diego and Lili loved it. One thing I
     would add is cute the apples in sliced rather than halves. It would give it a little
     more apple flavore. With it I made mashed potatos.

This Is Love

For the first time ever I am reading I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Josh Harris. I read his book Boy Meets Girl right before I entered a relationship, and loved it. Since there are no guys in my sight (other than Blake Griffin, heehee), I thought it would be good to read this.
In the first chapter, he talks about what it truly means to love someone.

"In 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, Paul writes:
For the love of Christ controls us, beacuse we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. (ESV)
The Bible teaches that if we truly trust in Jesus Christ, we die to our old ways of living. And we can no longer live for ourselves--we now live for God and for the good of others.
Because of that, relationships with the opposite sex can no longer be about "having a good time" or "learning what I want in a relationship". They're mpt tp ne anpit getting, but giving. Every relationship for a Christian is an opportunity to love another person like God has loved us. To lay down our desires and do what's in his or her best interest. To care for him or her even when there's nothing in it for us. To want that person's purity and holiness because it pleases God and protects him or her."
In chapter two he says,
"The best relationships are between two people who care more about each other's good than their own momentary pleasure. The Little Relationship Principle" (The joy of intimacy is the reward of commitment.) "won't make romance risk-free or foolproof. But it can guide and direct us toward healthy, God-pleasing relationships. And it can help us obey the second great command to love others as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:39). "

A Snapshot from Life

07/17/2011 - Starbucks gold card + 1lb of coffee = 1 free drink + amazingness

A Snapshot from Life

07/16/2011 - James 1:19-21

The Pros of Journaling

Within the last two weeks, God has been opening my eyes to His grace more and more. And it's only by His grace that this can happen! A year ago this month, different things happened in my life. So, I've been reading my journal enteries from last year... just to look at where I was and how God was working in my life. And He (and once again, it's only by His grace) has done a work in my life! It's so cool, to look back and see all that He has done. And even to look back on the last 3 years... yes, He let me go through some really hard times, but to see the story He is writing in my life is amazing! He really does have everything planned out!
I love the verses in 2 Corinthians (12:9-10) "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insult, hardship, persecutions, and clamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Isn't that a comforting thought?

A Snapshot from Life

07/08/2011 - I love summer!

A Snapshot from Life

06/29/2011 - An amazing book that ever christian should read. A Praying Life.

A Snapshot from Life

06/28/2011 - Candle shopping at a "jar-normous" sale with great friends, and coming out with 3 for the price of 1... priceless! (Well, it did cost something, but it's the memories that count! haha)

I'm Leaving My Fears Behind Me Now

Sorry I have been unable to blog. Life is busy, but not unbarable. And I have no excuse with why I should not be writing. I just have not been on the computer at all... thanks to my iPhone.
Since mom is working full time now, we are still moving in, and I have no job of my own yet, I have taken the job of holding down the fort. I have really enjoyed house keeping, and hope to do it if I get married one day. There is not one thing I found that I don't enjoy doing. I love cleaning, doing laundry, planning meals, grosery shopping, making dinner, etc. One thing I have found as I'm keeping the house, is how much my mom has done for us these 21 years. She has put up with a lot, and I find myself being more and more greatful for her, and what she has done! What a blessing she is to me, and an amazing rolemodle! I love you, mom!
I wish I could say it's been "easy breezy"... but it hasn't. I have not been content with life. Being at home all the time, and not having a job has been hard. And the worries of not having a job, no car, and no money coming in for bills has me a little uptight. I applied for Starbucks almost two weeks ago, and I'm still praying! It's right across from my mom's job, so it would be great for sharing the car.
At my community group a week ago, the ladies prayed for me for this very thing. Don't you love how God works? This past week, I had peace! It was amazing! Answer to prayer!
Last night we had worship night at church, and God was so amazing to work again!!! He spoke to me throught a few songs, both of which He has used many times in the last 8 months. God Moves and Completly Done.
They played God Moves first. He used the whole song to speak to me, but verse one stood out, and they played it several times.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm
Deep in His dark and hidden mines
With never-failing skill
He fashions all His bright designs
And works His sovereign will
"With never-failing skill, He fashions all His bright designs, and works His sovereign will!" At this point, I was overwelmed with His grace! Isn't He good? That verse in Isaiah kept popping in my head, (41:13) "For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Fear not, I am the one who helps you."
Right after this, what song did they play? Completly Done. I love this song, it's one of my favorite songs of all time. And just like the other, God used the whole song to speak to me. But verses one and two stood out.
What reason have I to doubt
Why would I dwell in fear
When all I have known is grace
My future in Christ is clear

 My sins have been paid in full
There’s no condemnation here
I live in the good of this
My Father has brought me near
I’m leaving my fears behind me now
"What reason have I to doubt?" He's got it all under control! Not me, and oh how I am thankful for that!
He was telling me to let go of my fears, He's got a plan!!! Isn't He amazing how he speaks to us? "I'm leaving my fears behind me now!" Or as my cousin Olivia use to say, "pe-pind". I'm leaving my fears pe-pind me now!!!!!!

Get Them Gators!

So once again I failed to post on Tuesday my infatuation. I thought about it Monday, and when Tuesday came around,  I totally forgot. So here it is.
Ever heard of the show Swamp People? It comes on Discovery Channel on Wednesdays, and is amazing! I think my own family would agree with me when I say it's a new favorite. There's just nothing like a bunch of hillbillies making boo koos of money! We like Troy the best, and one reason is because he reminds us of my mom's grandfather, Paw-paw. But then also he just seems like he has fun doing what he does.
Little by little I am discovering that I truely have southern blood. Such as Josh Turner being my favorite music artist... I like to shoot guns... I enjoy fishing... and now I want to go gator hunting! At least I don't talk like one though!

Chapter 5: Home Sweet Home

This past Saturday was one week since we have been in VA. And to tell the truth, it feels like we never left. We have such great friends, and oh how we missed it those two years in P'cola.
Our house is small... a little to small you might say. I think it would be a great house for a family of small children. But a family of five adults... it's a tight. So it's a good thing we are a close family. We call it the cottage, cuz that's exactly what it feels like. A plus side is, it's easy to clean!
If you know my family well, you know we like to make jokes about a lot of things. So it wasn't long before we had jokes about the house. Such as our crazy mailman. Everyday he drives back and forth at least 3 times, as if he forgot something. So we say he is on crack.
The cats across the street are HUGE! We thought they were dogs at first... so they are the cats on steroids.
You may think my family is weird... but I love it! Would not ask for another family.

Chapter 4: On Our Way

Bright and early (well for me bright and early, 7:30) we woke up to say our goodbyes. When the many hugs and tears were done, we headed our way to VA at 9am central. With 4 adults, 2 dogs, and 1 cat in one van, it was a rather long day. And thanks to Mr. Hagen for coming down to help dad with driving the 26 foot moving truck!
After many hours on the road, we arrived in VA at 2am central, 3am eastern. What a relief to finally be here... home!

A Snapshot from Life

05/27/2011 - Road trip!

A Snapshot from Life

05/26/2011 - Moving day!

"I'll Be There For You"

My latest addiction is the tv show Friends. I don't remember what started this, but I'm hooked. I know it's an older show... but I guess I tend to go for  the older shows just as well as the new. Such as The Cosby Show, I Love Lucy, and Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Friends is add to that list. I just love the interaction between the 6 of them... they act like one big family. I'd tell you who I like more, but I love all 6! Rachel, Monica, Chanller, Phoebe, Ross and Joey. The other day I even bought one of the episodes on my iPhone. I do know there are some iffy ones, but get past those, it's a great show!

Meant To Be Broken

A few weeks ago, my dad had a Bible study with the fam. He was talking about God's laws, the commandments. He reminded us that God created the laws for us to not keep them... to be broken... so we could identify sin.
Well, for a while, I had been slacking on reading Pierced By the Word every night, really for a few weeks. I wasn't beating myself up about it, but just kinda disapointed that I hadn't been staying on top of it like I was.
I love how God works! Cuz that night after Dad had his talk, I got ready for bed, and picked up the book. And what do you think John Piper was talking about? How does the Law help me know my sin? This very thing happened just a few weeks before this! And it's not luck, or faite, or destiny. It's God! He had a plan for me not reading my book!
At the start of the chapter, Piper puts up a few verses.
"What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no meants! Yes if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, 'You shall not covet.' But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, producecd in me all kinds of covetousness. Apart from the law, sin lies dead." -Romans 7:7-8
Apart from the law, sin lies dead. That's right to the point. Think about it. How would you know what was sin if we didn't have the law? How would you know if you saw someone had a new car, and you really wanted that car, and burning inside because you didn't have that car. How would you know if that was sin if we didn't have the law? We wouldn't. Without the law, "You should not covet", we would have no clue.
I don't know about you, but this makes me think, He is in control! He's got everything undercontrol! And what a wonderful thought that is!

A Snapshot from Life

05/23/2011 - Happy birthday, G!

A Snapshot from Life

05/23/2011 - After many hard weeks of not being able to swim, Cam Newton gets the flush. Goodbye Cam! You were the best fish I have had yet!

A Snapshot from Life

05/14/2011 - Big family beach day!

Chapter 3: Packing

Little by little we have been packing since the first of May, but this weekend we really kicked it into high gear. It feels like we just moved, I guess cuz this is the shortest time period we have lived in a house.
It's going smoothly. No problems... yet. Keep us in your prayers as this week is our last week in Florida. We have already stared goodbyes, tears have been shed, but God is good to have given us these friendships these two years. We will miss you all!

"I Could Have Meet You In A Sandbox"

My addiction in the last week has been John Mayer. Most days as I'm starting my day, I put on Sovereign Grace. But other than that, when I want music, I put on John Mayer. There's not really one song I put on, just shuffle. But I do love Love Song for No One, as well as Heartbreak Warfare . Really all his songs on my iPod have 5 stars. but I'd have to say he is still number two.... Not sure if anyone will ever pass Josh Turner!

A Snapshot from Life

05/13/2011- I love a rainbow after a storm. It reminds me that even though God brings darkness, He has something good that comes from it. "For it is you who light my lamp; the LORD my God lightens my darkness." -Psalm 18:28

The Amazing Guy At the Light

So last night, as Kelsey and I were headed home from Target with the kids, a fun up-beat song came on the radio. Sitting at the light, I thought I would be a little gooffy, and started to raise the roof. Diego didn't do anything, but Kel and Lili joined in the fun. But they weren't the only ones. When the light across the intercetion turned green, the guy that was sitting in the turn lane, started to turn, but also raised the roof. How awesome??

A Snapshot from Life

05/09/2011 - "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." -Colossians 3:16

Philly Cheez Steak Sandwich

This past Tuesday was Philadelphia Eagles' recipe, Philly Cheez Steak Sandwich. I think I would say this is one of my favorites so far! Easy and so goooooood!

It has:

- 1/4 cup peanut oil

- 1 lb. Spanish onions, peeled and thinly sliced

- 2 jalapeno chiles, seeded and thinly sliced

- 8 oz. Cheez Whiz or other processed cheese spread

- 2 lb. rib-eye steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper

- Italian or hoagie rolls

*Rather than using rib-eye steak (due to costs) I went with eye-of-round. Which worked very well, and cost $4 rather than $10.

*Also, I would get one more jalapeno, as well as one or two more onions.

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and chiles and cooked for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are caramelized. (Yum!) Remove the onions and chiles mixture to a bowl and stir in the Cheez Whiz.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until browned and to desired doneness. (Doneness, I think I'll be using this word now. haha).

*It says it's enough for 4 servings, but it's really 6.

This was a very easy meal! One I can see myself doing quite often.

Bon appetit!

(As I was making this, I was singing in my head the Fresh Prince theme song. #Classic)

A Snapshot from Life

05/06/2011 -Bowling night with Papa and Nana.

Lobster and Brie Mac and Cheese

Not this past Tuesday, but the one before that I made Lobster and Brie Mac and Cheese. It was Diego's birthday, and he wanted something with seafood. This was a Tennessee Titans resipe... and very good!!! We loved it, and so did the kids. You just can't go wrong with Mac and Cheese!
This is what it calls for:
- 8 paper-thin slices country ham
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 4 cups cooked ditalini pasta, or any small macaroni
- salt and cracked black pepper
- 5 oz Brie, cut into small cubes
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cooked lobster meat
- 2 Tbs minced fresh chives
- micro greens (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Brush the ham with oil and place them on a backing sheet in a single layer. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, until crisp. Set aside.
In a large saute pan over high heat, bring the cream to a boil. Add the pasta and cook untill the cream is reduced and thickened slightly. Season with salt and cracked pepper to taste, then stir in the cheeses and lobster meat. Cook until cheeses are melted and the lobster is just warmed through, about 4 minutes. Serve immediately.

*Because the lobster was very expensive, I only bought half of what it calls for. So I doubled the ham. I would even say, you could do without the lobster, and it would taste great!

"Got My Mac On With iPhone 3Gs"

Sorry that Addiction Tuesday is Thursday. But here it is. This is not a recent "addiction", I've had it since February. My iPhone. LOVE IT! I guess for the reason I've been so bad with blogging, is because of my phone. I hardly ever get on the computer anymore. I do email, Facebook, and Twitter all on it. I could do blogger, but it's a little tiring to be on it for so long. Plus, it's kinda hard to format a post, because you can't really. haha Along with the things listed above, I also have an ESPN app, that gives me game updates, breaking news, and other news. I love how when it sends a notification it does the tune da da daa. da da daa. Pretty cool! I can also use my Starbucks card app to buy a drink. That is awesome! You just push a botton, and it gives you the bar-code. Then, one of my favorite apps is the NBA League Pass app. It did cost money, but totally worth it! I was able to watch any game, unless it was on a network such as ABC. But then it gives you a bunch of other stuff as well. Amazing!
But really, one of the best things about my phone isn't even in the phone... it's on it. My Psych cover! One just like Shawn Spencer. Can I get a Whaaaaaat?

iPhones are amazing! Julian Smith is another big iPhone fan. He even made a video called Got My Mac On With iPhone 3Gs. Pretty funny!

Chapter 2: A House

Sorry it's been a while since I have updated about the move. Not sure if I said this in Chapter 1, but my parents were planning on going up to VA toward the end of April to look for a house. Well, by the grace of God, we found a house without making a trip! If that's not an open door for this move, I don't know what is! Please pray for me though. Kel and I are gonna have to share a room again, and I'm not to thrilled about it. But I do know this is God's provision.
Also, I've been kinda stressing out a little, so please pray! Knowing I'll have to be looking for a job is weighing on me. I don't want a job that will be taking me away from my family, along with my church family. I would love a office job, but I know God is in control!
I know this is kinda silly. But I've also been thinking, will I ever find the right guy? I just can't see any guy liking a girl like me. So, if you will, please pray that I'll be content being single. I would love to be a stay at home mom... but if that's not what God has for me, I want to do what He wants me to do.

A Snapshot from Life

05.02.2011 - My new toy!

Strawberry Banana Coconut Smoothie

I have been hooked on making smoothies now. I'm really wanting to eat more healthy (and as I am saying this, I'm eating some Easter candy I got on sale. haha). So I've been making smoothies. You may think that that's not really healthy... but the smoothies I've been making pretty much just fruit, yogert, and most of the time sweetened with honey.
Last Monday, I made Strawberry Banana Coconute Smoothie from my smoothie book. It's not a sweet smoothie. So if you like yours to be sweet, I'd say you might want to skip this one. But it's one of my favorites I've made so far.
It has:
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened canned coconut milk
- 1 tsp rum extract (optional)
- 1 banana, peeled and sliced
- 1 to 3 ice cubes
*I did use the extract, and it gave it a little bit of a kick

Combine strawberries, coconut milk, and rum extract in blender. Process until smooth.
Add banana; process until smooth. Add 3 ice cubes if using fresh fruit and 1 to 2 cubes if using frozen fruit. Process until smooth. Serve immediately.
Since this one is not sweet, I think it would be really good for breakfast. Give it a try, and let me know what ya think!

Chicken and Shrimp Fettuccine

Have I been falling behind on blogging or what? Well, Tuesday, April 19th's meal was Steelers' Wide Receiver, Limas Sweed's recipe (from my NFL Cookbook), Chicken and Shrimp Fettuccine, and boy oh boy was it good!

It has:
- 3/4 lb chicken breast cutlets
- 4 tsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb dried fettuccine
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Lightly oil a grill pan and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and coat with 2 teaspoons of oil, then season with salt and pepper. Grill chicken, until just cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes. Place chicken on cutting board to cool, then cut into bit size pieces. Clean out grill pan and once again heat oil over high heat. Pat shrimp dry and coat with 2 teaspoons of oil, then season with salt and pepper. Grill shrimp, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large saute pan, combine the butter and cream over low heat. Cook until butter is melted and cream comes to a bare simmer. Turn off the heat, and set aside.
Cook the fettuccine in a pot of salted boiling water as directed. Reserve 1/3 cup of the cooking water and drain. Add the fettuccine and cooking water to the saute pan. Add the cheese. Once cheese is stired in, add the chicken. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Cook over high heat for 1 to 2 minutes, to allow sauce to thicken. Spoon onto plates and top with grilled shrimp. Garnish with cheese and serve.

This was a very easy and cheap meal! One that I can see myself doing quite often. Plus, it was nice that the shrimp is saved for the topping, because if you have someone like my brother, who can't eat seafood, they can eat it with just chicken.
Bon appetit!