Monday, January 30, 2012

Natural Cold Medicine

Or the Healthy Alternative to Energy Drinks.

I heard somewhere that a very long time ago they would make this mixture (well, a version of it at least) and take it out to the harvest crews. Mother drank it with chlorophyll and we called it “Power Water”. We drank it growing up whenever we had the cold or flu. You know when you have a sore throat, and you should be drinking water, but it is uncomfortable to swallow? Well, this goes down easier but keeps you hydrated. That being said, nothing replaces pure water and you of course should make sure you drink plenty once your throat is feeling better. If you’re allergic to honey, see one of the variations.

Going into what is I think I the third week of a wretched cold, I’m going to get with the program and start drinking this! Especially since at the moment I have one of those difficult dry coughs and this seems to help.

MotherAde
¼ cup natural honey
¼ cup Apple Cider vinegar
1/8 teaspoon salt (I would recommend a good quality natural salt)
Enough warm water to make one quart
Mix all ingredients together. Drink. This amount should probably last about half a day.

You can make this hot or cold depending on your preference, but usually somewhere in the middle seems best when you’re not feeling well. If you do want it cold, dissolve the honey in a little bit of warm water first. You can vary the proportions to suite you taste!

I know that the honey and vinegar have specific health properties, but I don’t know that the technical information is for what they do when you have a cold.

These probably don’t have the same health properties, but for variation you can:

Replace honey with maple syrup
Replace vinegar with lemon juice
Replace honey and vinegar with lemon juice and maple syrup
You can also skip the honey altogether, but goodness it’s not the same!
I wonder how adding some ginger would taste? Would it be good for you?

Have any of you ever heard about this before? Have you tried it? What did you think? Any variations you would recommend or other natural remedies?

To good health!

T.W.

(Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, and I have no medical credentials. I do not like the sight of blood and I don’t have a strong stomach. I am in no way giving this recipe in any official capacity. You should seek the opinion of your doctor for official medical advice. This is simply one friend to another. Over and out.)

Friday, January 27, 2012

Thrifty Gift Idea


I love kids. Such simple things make them happy. I remember as a child one time getting a small box of raisins, just as a snack probably, but I pulled the idea out of the deep recesses of my memory and being stumped on Christmas ideas (and on a budget) I bought all my nieces and nephews (that are eating solids) individual boxes of raisins. The feedback? They were a hit! You don’t have to store it, it’s healthy, and if their little minds can process the idea, they know their aunt was thinking of them.

My nieces that is an absolute chocolate diva? She liked the raisins, but she wasn’t as ecstatic. Chocolate covered raisins for her?

For birthday’s I often give them money – not a lot, just as many dollars as they are old. But if they save the money (and I continue it ;)), that will add up over the years. For the latest birthday, I also included a box of raisins for something that would appeal more to a child. Wee K’t seemed thrilled, and loved eating them out of the teacup from the darling play set another one of her aunts gave her - she got a plethora of fun, and practical gifts! Not everyone is as boring as me. :)

With a little deviation here and there, I might stick to a similar formula at least while they are in their wee years. It works, and I like things that work. I don’t think gift giving comes naturally to me. If I have a love language (why do I say “if”?), I would say that isn’t it.

I guess the biggest problem for me is I want the gift to be perfect. I want the recipient to feel loved and special. I want them to like it. I’m a practical person, so I want it to be useful and not something they are simply going to have to dust the rest of their life! Spare me from trinkets and bobbles - especially since I’m in a de-cluttering phase in my life right now. Not that I don’t occasionally give gifts that fit into that realm, but I try to steer clear.

The second problem is money. Isn’t it always? I have a very small amount that I allot for each birthday, but I still want to do something special. Sometimes I’m simply too disorganized and end up in a panic because I didn’t take care of things in advance. Be better than me.

Do you have any great gift ideas? I'd love to hear!

T.W.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

The Worlds Tallest Hill




A few years ago my family watched the movie,
The Englishman That Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain. I recollect it being cute, but because I don't remember it super well, I'm not going to give an official recommendation. :)

Why in the world did I bring that up out of the blue? I discovered an interesting fact today: Cavanal Hill located near Poteau, Oklahoma is officially the world’s tallest hill at 1,999 feet. I think facts (or perhaps opinions) like that are kind of fun.

I ran across this tidbit of information in a post that Rindercella did at NeatheringOurFest about her airplane ride in a twin prop plane. Lots of fun, no?

I like flying. I think airport security* is tedious at best. Over and out.

T.W.

*There are some terrific people that work airport security and I'm happy I've crossed paths with some of them. Now there have been others.... The team at my local airport, kindly and graciously, went out of their way to help me find my watch one time when I had lost it in the labyrinths of my suitcase. I appreciate that.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Good Idea....

This is too funny. Love this look on a ring bearer.

:)

T.W.

National Hot Tea Month

Ya'll, did you hear the news? It's National Hot Tea Month - the whole month of January (imagine that).

I drink tea everyday. It's close to national disaster status if I don't get my tea - horror of horrors, if I have to go for more than one day! I've been known to stuff tea bags in my pockets in case of emergency. It's a hundred and how many ever degrees? "Oh, I'd love a nice hot cup of tea."

I'm not an emotional person - unless "tea is the tears I never shed". Hmmm, I kind of like that quote. I just made it up and I must remember it. I'm so brilliant sometimes! Perhaps that is why the British are known for their stiff upper lip? It could be the tea.

I love it when people direct me to "goodies" on the internet, so....

The only thing better than a nice hot cup of tea, is a nice hot cup of tea with some delicous morsel of goodness to go with it! Have you ever heard of Tea Time Magazine? Miss Janice reminded me of them in this post. I confess I don't have a subscription (something to think about though when I live in a "house" again!), but I have had the pleasure of looking through some of their past issues. Beautiful, lovely, mouthwatering pictures, and recipes for the little delicousnesses!(Okay, I know that is not a word, but I wanted to use it SOOOO much. So I did.)

Pause for station identification....

Emergency supplies of tea come in handy - we're out of tea (gasp!) and my sister was just looking for some so I pulled my purse over, found the little zippered pouch and unzipped it. Inside was a tea bag and I gave it to her. I'm such a good big sister. I have one tea bag of good black tea still in there. Unfortunately, that is not going to last me through the day. Uh, what in the world was I thinking?

Back to Tea Time, their website is a sampling of their magazine. If you hop over using one of the links, under the Indulgences section, they have beautiful photos and delicious looking recipes. I think these look especially tasty; Basil-Lemon Scones and Blackberry Bavarian Cream Note: Only four recipes come up under each section, but click on the "More" down below and you get a whole list!

By the way, I think a subscription to Tea Time magazine would make a terrific gift. Birthday, Bridal Shower?

Just some inspiration in the spirit of National Hot Tea Month!

Hugs to the girls, scowls to boys,*smile* Just kidding. Well, maybe.

This is T.W.

In the interests of full disclosure, well full disclosure as far as this goes: This is my own personal, un-bribed thoughts and opinions regarding Tea Time Magazine. They don't know I exist - the nerve of some people! However, since they seem to have a picture of MY spoon, I'm getting suspicious.

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Courageous
the Movie

Fireproof and Courageous are both close to my heart because…

I have a brother that is a volunteer Firefighter . I was his “date” one year at their annual awards banquet where he practically walked away with everything. Volunteer Firefighter of the Year? Check. First Responder? Check. The award for stations? Check, his team got it. Go Volunteers!!!!

And…

I have a brother that was in law enforcement. Being an officer is often a thankless job, and a dangerous one. Tough? He gave the word its Teflon coating. ;) Need I say more?

Brothers. Men of courage. Real live heroes. Ooh, yah! Am I bragging? Yes, thank you. Over and out.

Soo…..Here are some thoughts. I’m looking forward to your comments! What do you think?

A round of applause to Sherwood Pictures for working to raise a standard for, clean, inspiring “entertainment!” I hope they keep up the good work, stick to the straight and narrow and press on higher. Fathers need to stand up and take the responsibility for their families! What a terrific message! I especially appreciate that they did it specifically in relation to law enforcement. It is so important that Christian officers stand strong in the Lord and set a standard with their own families. The importance of fathers being a part of their children’s lives is invaluable!

That being said, I'm not sure that a vow was the best course of action, though maybe it would be for some. If that is the biblical standard, just do it. Christ died to give us freedom, let’s not take on the bondage of lists, and lists of “to do.” We don’t want to end up like the Pharisees with all their “rules” completely missing the point of God’s instruction. It must be said though, that accountability between men is very important. Let’s step out ladies, and let the guys knock each other around a bit. *smile* I’m just saying. When the resolution was just between the men, I was less hesitant about it. But as soon as the wives and children were brought into it, I felt the dynamic changed.

I’m also curious to hear people’s thoughts on this: Adam studied God’s word, and he felt that the resolution was what God was calling father’s to do, but it was still his opinion. I’m not saying he wasn’t right, but he had personally studied God’s word to come to that conclusion. That meant he felt directly accountable to God. What about other men? If they sign that resolution, (and I’m still not saying that it isn’t biblical), who are they going to feel accountable to? On the flip side of the coin (though not in contradiction) I believe one of the reasons God wants us to have fellowship with other Christians is because different perspectives can lead us to a richer understanding of his word.

This is a terrific, thought provoking movie – I like that. I like that there are men behind this, trying to challenge other men to take up their righteous responsibility before God. Go for it! I don’t want to discourage this company, the men, and the standard they are trying to raise, but I think we do need to seek God personally, trying everything against the standard of his word. Believe me; do I do that all the time? No, no, and no. I’m human. I forget to do this so often it isn’t even funny. Now you and my uncle both know I’m not perfect. shhhh.

It isn’t all that important, but before I sign off: I don’t think an officer would say, “I have a really bad feeling about this,” and then turn casually around with his back to the door of the house. I think it is mildly amusing, but I’m going to cut them some slack because – I feel their pain! I’m writing a story with law enforcement and crime scenes in it and it isn’t exactly easy. I have done research, and tried, but let’s just say it is an area that I want to work on. Besides that, whenever I watch movies or shows with lawmen, I can usually be counted on to feel that something isn’t realistic. And I’m right? Of course - Well, I’m pretty sure - “He would not do that! That is so unrealistic! Oh, brother.”

I’m looking forward to their next movie. What about you? Have you seen Courageous? What are your thoughts?

T.W.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Tex Ting

Do you know what the greatest thing is I did in 2011? Drum roll please…..I sent a text. I can just hear the sudden silence of the drums. Huh?

Well, it’s true. In my 25+ plus years (oh, I suppose the + should be bolded. Maybe.) I had never sent a text. I just hadn’t needed to do so. I confess, having had to send few, they are kind of cool. But truthfully, I do not know when or if I shall ever send one again.

I do know what a computer is.

I have seen color T.V.

I don’t know how to ride a horse, so don’t even go there. Horsepower is great in a car.

I think apples are something you eat.

Do you listen to an iPhone with your eye? Strange, vedy strange.

I need to know these things.

I wonder what great adventure 2012 is holding for me?

T.W.

(In other news, I think I need to get well. You can see what it does to me being sick.)

Sunday, January 15, 2012

When Timing Is Perfect....
in a way

My sister is a natural comic. That being said, have you ever seen "Night at the Museum?" If you haven't, go watch it and then come back and read this post.

Okay, are you ready now?

My sister was in town at work and we were watching "Courageous". Two of my sisters have already seen it, so I had a general idea of what was about to happen. We had just got to the place where one of the guys police buddies comes screeching up in a patrol car and tells him to get in, his daughter was just in a car accident.

Cue dramatic music, the car speeds off, sirens wailing.....

Our door slid open and Mr. K. put his head into the room telling one of my brothers, "get dressed and meet me at the truck. (He was wearing clothes. Translation: Bundles up.) Miss H. just went off the road and is in the ditch."

Father joined the group and they carefully rushed off on the snow covered roads to go rescue her.

We're waiting around and Miss Twiglet says in her Night at the Museum Pharaoh voice, "There's an accident in the movie. Miss H. is in the ditch. 'There is just too much going on here."

Miss H. is home safe, praise the Lord. The sister's car she was driving? Not so much. It's Puddy Muddy's second accident in two months. What do you do with a car that has already been in one accident and totalled? It's totally totalled, dude. Like, totally.

Note to Self: Get Well. Stay Well

They’re both in my lap, and it’s okay ‘cause they coordinate. Black and white Chihuahua + black netbook = As long as it works. Thank goodness today I’m half lying down, due to a cold flu, so there is a wee bit extra room on my lap. I tried to convince Boo to lie next to me, but apparently it isn’t as cozy.

The light is fading, I’m surfing pretty pictures on the web, sipping tea, eating chocolate chip cookies sent up from the tea at K&E’s house. Life could be worse when you’re sick. Still, I’m looking forward to being back on my feet again. It seems to have been one illness after another being passed around the family for over a month. I've faired pretty well (ha,ha!) but I think we need to all get back on the health wagon.

Cheers!

T.W.

Friday, January 13, 2012

What Have Your Shopping Trips
Turned Up Recently?

Mum and I took a rare trip to the mall today and found absolutely nothing.

Well, perhaps one thing.

It was black and white, and striped like a Zebra; a robe but not in the traditional style. It was almost like a big square that you could just pop over the top of your head, the sleeves part of the body. It looked like something Cruella De Ville might wear. Perhaps that idea did spring to mind so readily because I watched 101 Dalmatians yesterday. I could also see myself wearing it, swinging dramatically across the room, arms flailing theatrically. I could picture our black and white Chihuahua ………… taking one look at me and running screaming from the room.

I didn’t buy it. Sometimes I’m big that way.

Better luck shopping next time!

T.W.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

How do You Eat a Cupcake?

They say January is National Hot Tea Month. For a girl that drinks hot tea daily*, well, several times a day, this is news to me. In honor of the occasion, perhaps I should add to my daily consumption enough to make an even dozen a day. Or not. Do you know how much water I would have to drink on top of that to stay hydrated?


I read a blog by a delightful southern woman, Miss Janice. Yesterday she posted "Teatime for Children".It is an easy to read, informative post on etiquette geared to instructing children - but relevant to adults too! She even instructs you in the proper way to eat a cupcake: with a knife and fork.

Enjoy!

T.W.

*This tradition might occasionally get me into trouble - read about it here.

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Giveaway Notice

My friend over at Little House in the Hills is doing a giveaway!

There are a few little crocheted animals to choose choose from (this little fella is my favorite!) Go drop by her blog, say hello and choose your favorite to sign up for the giveaway!



On a flight home before Christmas I sat next to a Navy man that was on his way home for Christmas. His family and girlfriend were going to meet him at the airport - I thought it was sweet, romantic and Christmasy. (I didn't tell him that.)

Cheers!

T.W.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Hello 2012

I hope you all had a fabulous Christmas and New Years! Mine wasn't exactly what I would have expected, but it truly was pleasant. Pleasant? What kind of description is that? It sounds like I'm being cautious, which is probably true. :)

Inspiration struck and I had a nice post all typed out for my New Year greeting, but I never got to the Internet. However, I'm still going to share it with you.

.......................................

I confess that sometimes I fall into the trap of thinking of the Bible as simply history, and losing sight of not only its relevance to me today, but they very fact that it is history. Men and women experienced these things, it’s real.

It’s easy to do with any history, and I think it is important when it becomes real for us. I remember standing on a Civil War battle field once and pausing to think, “Men fought on this very ground - where I am standing!” It makes you think.

Sometimes when I’m reading through the Bible, it’s the little things, that make it come alive for me. I was reading in Romans chapter 5 the other day and this verse pretty much summed up a realization to me: For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. (Romans 5:19 KJV)

Because of Adams disobedience, we’re all born sinners. Because of Christ’s obedience, we have the choice to be saved from our sin. (Interesting thing, Eve ate the fruit first, but she isn’t the one that is held responsible for the disobedience in the grand scheme of our sin.)

One man. I mean think about that, one man? Adams decision has affected every single person that came after him. Everyone. One man made one decision and it changed the world, but not for the better. Then Christ came, one man. His sacrifice changed the history of the world again, this time for good. Through his obedience, “shall many be made righteous.”

Individuals make a difference. When we make a decision, for good or bad, it affects others; follow Christ.

Go forth and conquer!
Happy New Year!

T.W.

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9 KJV