Personal Goals for 2008

1. I want to learn to can. My grandparents did it and I have such fond memories of helping them. To do this, I need to acquire a pressure canner, jars, folley food mill, and Ball Blue Book. I'd like to "put-up" applesauce, salsa, and strawberry jam.

2. I want to simplify my hobbies. In 2007 I allowed my life to be over-run by fabric, yarn, patterns, notions, etc. I've thinned out ALOT but want to do more. In the area of sewing, I want to focus on making small quilts. In the area of knitting, I want to focus on charity knitting and I want to learn how to knit socks.

3. I want to cultivate a simple spirit in our home. This will entail lots of decluttering with the mantra "Do I love it? Do I use it? Does it have home?" I want to utilize my home management binder and schedules every day so that I run the house not the house runs me. I'd like to hang some of my beloved quilts on the walls because it makes me happy.

4. I want more exercise for my body, mind, and soul. My nephew got a MP3 player for Christmas and it was only $15. I'd like to get one of those and start walking every day. I want to start reading more books that will challenge my mind and force me to THINK. I want to schedule time every day to spend time with my Lord in prayer and reading His Word.

Will you pray for me? Will you share your goals for 2008 so that I can pray for you?

God Bless,

ERIN

The Nicest Compliment

My friend Sue came over this morning. We haven't been friends long but we are definently kindred spirits. I was showing her something in my sewing room and she commented to me, "I thought I was good at squeezing every penny out of a dollar but you are even better!" That totally made my day. :-) Thanks, Sue!

I Love it When I Cook Like my Sister

I just finished eating the most delicious but simple supper. I have this wonderful, contented feeling in my tummy. Sorry no pictures. :-)

First I sliced up one small yellow summer squash and two carrots. I started the carrots and some frozen Italian green beans in a skillet with EVVO, butter, bit of water, salt and pepper. Once those cook for a few minutes I added the squash. Covered it up and let it simmer until the veggies were tender. Earlier in the day I pulled 2 packages of chicken breast tenders from the freezer to thaw. Put them in a bowl, threw on a healthy sprinkle of sea salt, and let them sit for a bit. Rinsed well and patted dry with paper towels. Dipped in flour, egg wash mixture, and seasoned bread crumbs. Pan fried in a couple tablespoons EVVO until well browned on each side.

It tasted just like something my sister would make. She is a FABULOUS cook. Both the veggies and chicken were perfectly seasoned.