Coffee for Breakfast

Well, crocheting is going well. I am so glad since it is a proven stress-reducer. I made myself practice all the basic stitches for several days, then I've been off and running (or rather crocheting) ever since. I began a baby blanket a few days ago. It is so cute. I am over half finished. I will post pictures later. I also just found out that we are expecting 2 new great nieces (or nephews!), and my best friend is expecting also. I know what their baby gifts will be!!!

Disney Princesses Cardinal Family (2nd place) Horse in the Wind (1st place) Trotting Buckeye Rearing Mustang (3rd place) Paint Colt Resting Our three youngest daughters participated in an art show/contest at a local county fair. This is a family tradition of several years. They save art projects all year and pick their favorites.The titles are listed below each drawing. We were very proud of them.

I've decided to learn (or re-learn) to crochet. I have been taught or shown how before, but it just never "stuck". This time I am learning from a beginner book that enables me to learn at my own pace. This seems to be a better method for me. I can refer back to the pictures if I forget what I am doing! Of course I would love to just take off on a really cool project, post a picture of it, and be very proud of myself. I have decided to take a more logical approach though. Practice, practice, practice. A really cool side-note: Three of my daughters decided to learn along with me. From my understanding, I really need to learn five basic stiches. I think I have found a new hobby.

This week did not start out "picture perfect". Not even just a little "normal". I would have to say that this week hasn't even been pleasant! Our prodigal son returned home early Monday morning. As wonderful as that was, our schedule was just a little turned-upside-down-and -rattled. My heart rejoiced while it ached all at the same time. Only God can ordain such a precious moment. Tuesday, I realized the enormity of prayer that lay before me. I know that God will answer and I am filled with hope. Anxiety is slightly trying to creep in. I tell myself, "I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength." Wednesday, I start to feel tired. Does anyone even see how tough this is? Forget housework, I have to find a way into the heart of my son! I can't read his mind but his attitude doesn't seem right. Thursday is the peak of this roller-coaster week. Nothing seems to have been accomplished. I now wonder if we are travelling backward instead ...

In honor of fall, I requested pumpkin recipes from friends on the Five In A Row message boards. This is the first I have tried. It is wonderful. This comes from Debbie. This is my all time favorite pumpkin recipe. I got it from KarrieAK from the boards here. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins 1/2 cup oil 4 eggs 3 cups flour 2 cups sugar 1/2 t. cinnamon 1/2 t. salt 2 t. baking soda 1 small can pumpkin 1 12oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350. Beat eggs and sugar. Mix in rest of ingredients. Bake for 20 min. I normally make mini muffins out of this. I also double the recipe and make a lot of them so that I can freeze them. They normally don't last around here! My children love these. I'm sure we will bake these muffins often.