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10/6/05 PICNICS, PRACTICAL TIPS, PUMPKINS, PASTORS, APOSTLES

#1 · October 6, 2005, 8:25 pm

Quote from Forum Archives on October 6, 2005, 8:25 pm
Posted by: jhbreneman <jhbreneman@...>
HEART TO HEART NEWSLETTER
ENCOURAGEMENT TO WOMEN
Compiled especially for you with love by Lois Breneman

~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~

10/6/05 PICNICS, PRACTICAL TIPS, PUMPKINS, PASTORS, APOSTLES

~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~

IN THIS ISSUE:

COOLER WEATHER - A PERFECT TIME FOR A FAMILY PICNIC

CHICKEN SALAD

IF YOU GIVE A MOM A MUFFIN

SUPER EASY "READY-TO-EAT" HOT WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL!

REPAIRING THE BREACH

PRACTICAL MISCELLANEOUS TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

SAVE OVER $2,000 IN YOUR BABY'S FIRST YEAR

ANALOGY OF THE PUMPKIN

"PUMPKIN PATCH" AND SONGS FOR HOLIDAYS ALL YEAR LONG

PAINTED PICTORIAL PUMPKINS, and PERFECT PRACTICALITIES

CHRISTMAS TIPS

OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH

THE PERFECT PASTOR

IF MEN HAD CHOSEN THE APOSTLES
DOES THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU?

COOLER WEATHER - A PERFECT TIME FOR A FAMILY PICNIC

        With the cooler weather, now's the time to find a nice quiet spot to enjoy the outdoor beauty and each other while having a picnic. Our local community college has a lovely arboretum that is perfect, with the beautiful gardens and a large gazebo with benches all around to spread out the food. In case it might be occupied, we take along a quilt.

        If you live near beautiful mountains as we live near the Blue Ridge Mountains, enjoy the spectacular view as you picnic. We also have a favorite spot called Happy Hollow, where the pink, red and white azaleas surround us in the springtime. "Our table" sets in the midst of a wooden walkway and a bridge going over a rippling brook. For a quick spur of the moment picnic, sometimes I make dinner in an electric skillet. We just pack it in the car and drive ten minutes up the mountain for a hot picnic with no fuss, for a change of scenery.

        Find several special picnic spots that are enjoyable for your family - maybe even in your own back yard with escalating gas prices!

CHICKEN SALAD

Contributed by Elaine Breneman, Pennsylvania

2 cups diced cooked chicken                 1/4 cup slivered almonds

1/2 tsp. salt                                                 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup chopped celery                                Enough mayonnaise to mix and moisten

1 cup red grapes, cut in half

Combine ingredients and serve individually on beds of lettuce. Serves 6.

IF YOU GIVE A MOM A MUFFIN

By Kathy Fictorie ~ used by permission from the author

Based on the book, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Numeroff

If you give a mom a muffin,
She'll want a cup of coffee to go with it.
She'll pour herself some.
The coffee will get spilled by her three year old.
She'll wipe it up.
Wiping the floor, she will find some dirty socks.
She'll remember she has to do some laundry.
When she puts the laundry in the washer,
She'll trip over some snow boots and bump into the freezer.
Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan supper for tonight.
She will get out a pound of hamburger.
She'll look for her cookbook. (101 Things To Make With a Pound of Hamburger.)
The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail.
She will see the phone bill which is due tomorrow.
She will look for the checkbook.
The checkbook is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two year old.
She'll smell something funny.
She'll change the two year old.
While she is changing the two year old the phone will ring. (Of course!)
Her five year old will answer it and hang up.
She remembers that she wants to phone a friend to come over for coffee on Friday.
Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup.
She will pour herself some.
And chances are, if she has a cup of coffee,
Her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.





SUPER EASY "READY-TO-EAT" HOT WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL!

By Lois Breneman, © 2005, Heart to Heart Newsletter, [email protected]

        Tired of spending so much money on cold cereals for your family - for so little nutritional value? A much healthier, more satisfying, tastier and less expensive way to eat breakfast is to use whole grain kernels, which can be purchased in the heath foods section of your grocery store or health foods co-op. The hard kernels of grain will expand and split open in the hot water overnight, releasing the untouched nutrients -- no bleaching or removal of the rich fiber!

        Before going to bed put 1/2 cup of whole grain kernels (wheat, oats or spelt) into a good wide mouth glass-lined Thermos bottle.  Add almost 2 cups of boiling water, stir and put on the lid (no salt yet). In the morning, drain water (save for soups), pour cereal into a dish, add a dash of salt, a little butter and sweetener. Sliced banana or berries are also delicious in this whole grain cereal.

        To make Old Fashioned Oatmeal, start with ½ cup uncooked old fashioned rolled oats in the Thermos. Pour a little more than 1 cup boiling water over the oats.  Stir and seal tightly. In the morning you will have creamy cooked oatmeal! You can also add dried fruit to the Thermos the night before. Actually the cooking time for oatmeal is only about 2 hours, but it should still be hot by morning.

        This only makes about two servings, but if you have a carafe' you could increase the number of servings. I've also used the "cooked" whole grain to sprinkle over a green salad or use as a substitute for rice. The nutty flavor adds a nice touch, as well as good nutrition. Once it is cooked, refrigerate the grain, if not eaten while hot. You'll be hooked once you try this quick and easy way to better nutrition. Be sure to let your older parents know about this tip. It's perfect for two servings!

REPAIRING THE BREACH

By Roy Lessin, Co-Founder DaySpring Cards ~ Contributed by Lisa Larson, Missouri

I had rebuilt the wall, and there was no breach left therein. Nehemiah 6:1

The devastation created by hurricane Katrina has brought us so many powerful, mind-boggling images. Daily, the things that we have seen on television have moved us with compassion, touched our hearts, and motivated us to respond.

One of the images that greatly impacted me was the massive task of repairing the breach in one of the levee walls. As I watched a steady stream of giant sandbags being dropped into the water by helicopters, it seemed like the sandbags were disappearing into a bottomless pit. I wondered if the needed repair would ever be made. What a joy it was to see the levee, days later, with the breach repaired, and sandbags actually sitting above the waterline.

In Psalms 51:6 we read, Behold, You (God) desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part, You will make me to know wisdom. God desires that His truth be established within us. His truth can be likened to a protective wall that guards us from the damaging lies of the enemy. Truth's protective wall helps to establish our hearts in love and grace. It provides a positive environment where our spirits can be nurtured and our faith can grow.

Whenever we allow one of Satan's lies to enter our hearts, we create a breach in truth's protective wall. As long as the breach remains, our hearts will be flooded with doubts, fears, and condemning thoughts that God never intended us to dwell upon thoughts that will rob us of our peace and steal our joy.

Here are seven lies that can breach God's protective wall of truth within you:

1. God can't be trusted. (The truth isGod is faithful.)

2. God is against you. (The truth isGod is for you.)

3. You are not good enough to be blessed. (The truth isChrist is your righteousness and you have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in Him.)

4. God cares about others more than He cares about you. (The truth isGod cares for you.)

5. God really doesn't love you. (The truth isGod loves you with an everlasting love.)

6. Your situation is hopeless. (The truth isWith God, nothing is impossible.)

7. Things will never change. (The truth isGod makes all things new.)

If you have allowed a lie of the enemy to breach your protective wall of truth, begin to rebuild that breach today. Reject the lie and start dropping the sandbags of God's promises into that breach. Soon, there will be no opening left for the enemy's lie to impact your life. Receive the Lord's cleansing, and allow the blood of Jesus to wash away all the pollution that the lie has brought into your life. As the blood washes you, the peace of God and the joy of the Lord will fill your heart once again.

PRACTICAL MISCELLANEOUS TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

All tips from other sources were used by permission

Hair on Bathroom Floor ~ One of the worst parts of cleaning the bathroom has to be washing the floor. I can never seem to sweep up all the stray hairs off the floor before washing it and I end up with a bunch of wet hair sliding around the floor as I try to scoop it up while washing the floor. A while ago I had the idea to use a sticky lint brush on the floor before washing it. It worked like a charm! I just rolled it over the floor and it picked up all the stray hairs and lint. It was easy and for once I felt like the floor was truly clean! -- Laura, 31, from NC - www.mommysavers.com (I'm wondering how you could attach a long handle to it to save stooping. - Lois)

Ink Stains on Clothing ~ Recently I tried to remove ink stains on clothing for a friend, using hair spray and industrial cleaner. A lot of ink did actually come out, but a bad stain still remained. The next day I read a tip on how Pine Sol, rubbed into an ink stain with an old toothbrush, removed all of a terrible stain for someone after a pen exploded. Lestoil is another very powerful cleaner which may work. I know it works on stubborn wall stains. ~ Lois

Keeping Kids Quiet ~ To keep a child quiet during an important event (wedding, graduation,
funeral, etc...), try pipe cleaners. You can make all kinds of shapes with them. During a family member's graduation, my daughter stayed quiet for about an hour making flowers, bees, kites, butterflies, and stick figures. We found a large color variety pack at our Dollar Tree for $1. Beware! Making a pair of eyeglasses causes children to erupt into laughter when they put them on. -- LeeAnne, 30, Tennessee - www.mommysavers.com

The remainder of these tips are from The Dollar Stretcher - www.stretcher.com:

Wart Removal ~ Our pediatrician recommended that we put good quality duct tape on a just washed foot to remove my 4-year-old's wart. He said that the tape should be left on as long as it will stay (several days to weeks). When removed, the wart comes out also! I would not have believed this if the doctor himself hadn't told me. TD (Melaleuca oil, also known as tea tree oil has also been proven to remove warts in about 2 weeks, with no scars. - Lois)

Personalized Greeting Card ~ I send photos of the family or our daughter in lieu of birthday cards, but I have come up with a twist that my family always enjoys, which is personalization! Recently, I wrote a personalized birthday greeting on plain paper, had my 15-month-old daughter hold it up, and snapped her picture. Her great aunt was so tickled that the pictures made the rounds of all the family! Nancy

Grandma's Comforter ~ I have been making comforters for at least 40 years using out-of-fashion wool clothing. I take apart, wash, press and cut the blocks. I stick to wool because it is so warm. I sometimes use a bathroom tile for a template; plastic or ceramic are more durable. I would guess I have made at least 150 of these comforters. The grandkids get them when they go off to college and they love the cozy feeling of home. I have 45 grandchildren from 15 children. I am not much for crafts, but this is so easy and so appreciated. P.

In Case of Theft ~ I had my purse stolen and had everything in it as I was visiting my mother in New York. Do not keep your Social Security card, birth certificate, extra credit cards, etc. in your purse. Photocopy the front and back of whatever you do keep in your purse/wallet. It is a good idea to photocopy all of those documents anyway. In the case of credit cards, hand write (in large-enough-to-read numbers) tiny customer service numbers that are printed on the card. I had to try to get a Social Security card with no identification to prove who I was. The person who stole my purse had all of the information. Don't forget to call the credit bureau (you only need to call one). The bank can give you the number. Also call the FTC. They can notify other states of the theft of your information. Patt

Healthy Doggie Treats ~ We all know how healthy broccoli is for us, but did you know that most dogs like it too? When I am preparing broccoli or cauliflower, I slice the stems into "coins," stick them in a baggie, and pop them in the freezer. My dogs love the "frozen treats" and come running when they hear "bag noise" coming from the freezer! Emmie

30 Cent per Gallon All-Purpose Cleaner ~ I have always said to clean a house you only need four basic items: liquid bleach, white vinegar, baking soda and ammonia. Recently, I watched a TV program that suggested an old Amish recipe for an all-purpose cleaning solution. Combine 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup white vinegar with a
gallon of water. Shake well and pour the solution into a spray bottle. I've used this cleaning solution to clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces, sinks, showers, tubs, countertops, cupboards, and floors. It eats through grease on the stove and exhaust hood.  With a slightly stronger version of the mixture (using 1/3 cup instead), I recently cleaned my oven with minimal elbow grease after spraying and leaving the solution to sit for a while before wiping off. To clean windows, use about 1/3 to 1/2 cup white vinegar with a gallon of water and wipe clean with newspaper. With these mixtures, there is no harsh chemical smell and you can breathe while you clean. I figure the trio solution costs me about 30 cents per gallon. A gallon would fill one of those expensive name brand spray bottles about four times. I figure that every time I fill it, I am saving a minimum of $1.80! Brian M.

SAVE OVER $2,000 IN YOUR BABY'S FIRST YEAR

By Kimberly Danger - www.mommysavers.com - Used by permission

According to a recent MSN study, the average family will spend around $10,000 before their child reaches the age of two. How did such tiny creatures become so expensive? The good news is there are hundreds, even thousands of ways to save money without depriving you or your baby of anything. Here are a few that deliver the biggest bang for your buck:

Breastfeeding ~ Not only is breastfeeding the healthiest option for your baby, its the most economical as well. Breastfeeding exclusively in the first six months of babys life will give his immune system a head start, and leave more cash in your pocket. However if breastfeeding isnt practical for you, you can still save money. By law, generic formula has to meet the same FDA standards as brand name formula, and costs about 30% less. You can also sign up for manufacturers mailing lists to receive free formula, and ask your pediatrician for samples at your well-baby checkups. Estimated savings: $700/year

Switch to Generic Diapers ~ Generic disposables are better than ever these days, and are comparable to their brand-name counterparts. Most come with cloth-like covers and Velcro-like tabs that make refastening diapers a breeze. Favorite brands include those found at Target and White Cloud from Wal-Mart, which cost about 30% less than premium brands. Save even more by making your own baby wipes at home (the instructions are found in the book, 1000 Best Baby Bargains). Estimated savings: $200-300/year

Buy the Majority of your Childs Wardrobe at Garage Sales ~ Because babies grow so quickly, they barely have time to wear out their cute little outfits. There are some great deals to be found on secondhand items, especially at garage sales. Often times, you can pick up used clothes in great condition for a dollar or even less. If youre hesitant, dont be. Once the tags are off, all clothes are secondhand anyway. After all, its a lot easier to watch your child spit up on his $1 sleeper than one you bought for $15. Estimated savings: $400/year

Purchase Baby Gear at Secondhand or Consignment Stores ~ Because they have tough standards for the quality of items they sell, you can often find gently used gear in great condition at secondhand or consignment stores. This includes strollers, bouncers, monitors, high chairs, etc. For safetys sake, ask the store if they check items they sell for recalls. One note of caution: you should never buy a used car seat unless you know its exact history. Hairline fractures to the frame could compromise babys safety and are sometimes impossible to see. Estimated savings: $250-500

Opt for the Shabby Chic Nursery ~ Transforming your babys room into an infant wonderland doesnt have to be expensive. Scout out the best deals on used furniture at garage sales, thrift stores, antique stores, or even your parents basement. Even parents-to-be without an ounce of artistic talent can paint a mural on babys wall with the help of an overhead projector. Mismatched dressers, book shelves, and rockers can be given a coat of paint so theyll coordinate with each other and match the room. Estimated Savings: $500+

ANALOGY OF THE PUMPKIN

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff -- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light Inside you to shine for all the world to see.

"PUMPKIN PATCH" AND SONGS FOR HOLIDAYS ALL YEAR LONG

If you visit www.maryricehopkins.com, you'll hear the "Pumpkin Patch" sound byte from the kids newest favorite album, "Sing Through the Year." Why not bring the gospel in a positive way to your little ones this year around Halloween time? I have always struggled with how to shed a new light on this holiday that is personally not my favorite. The Pumpkin Patch song does just that. The lyrics resonate the gospel with:

"He took the yucky stuff out of me
Carved a smile and eyes to see
Then He came inside my heart
And placed a candle in the dark."

We can bring the light of Jesus to a dark world this fall. In addition, you might want to check out the wonderful Devotion in Motion by Brenda Carpenter and Linda Stevenson. You will love the free downloadable object lesson along with craft, lyrics and ideas to use around your harvest theme. The only thing you really need to add is some pumpkins and some music!

PAINTED PICTORIAL PUMPKINS, and PERFECT PRACTICALITIES

                     Various Ways of Decorating with Pumpkins

By Lois Breneman, © Revised 2005, Heart to Heart Newsletter, [email protected]

*Glue dried pansies on a pumpkin and coat with mod podge (from a fabric, craft or hobby store) or several coats of white glue slightly thinned with water. It will dry clear and protect the pictures. Use inside the house or on a covered porch.

* Glue color copies of your family on a pumpkin. If you have fall pictures to use, that would be perfect! Cover pictures with mod podge or several coats of white glue slightly thinned with water.

* Of course, pumpkins can be used as decorative touches in planning any outdoor displays for fall. Arrange a display of assorted pumpkins in an old wheelbarrow, basket or wagon.

* Decorate a mantle or table with pumpkins, gourds, colorful leaves and mums, intertwining clear miniature lights in and around the fall harvest.

* Use pumpkins as punch bowls for cider.

* Turn scooped out pumpkins into serving bowls for soups, stews and chili.

* Use smaller pumpkins for individual serving bowls.

* Use the tiniest pumpkins or gourds as place cards for a meal, especially at Thanksgiving.

* Turn small pumpkins or gourds into candle holders by scooping out and inserting votive candles.

*A scooped out pumpkin makes a wonderful vase for colorful fall flowers! Simply insert florist's foam inside the pumpkin for easy arranging.

* Paint flowers and ivy all around the surface of a pumpkin with acrylic paints!

* Sponge paint a pumpkin, using a deeper orange on a sponge, and dabbing all over.

CHRISTMAS TIPS

A Treasured Gift ~ When my son, Patrick, was in 1st grade, his teacher had the kids make finger prints on note-sized paper. Then she turned them all into little mice with ears and a tail. They were our Christmas gifts from our children that year. I still treasure mine. - Bernie Teague, MO (This would make a wonderful personal gift from your children to teachers and family members. You could help them make fingerprint animals on either note cards or Christmas ornaments. - Lois)

Scriptures in Calligraphy ~ A wonderful gift for family and friends at Christmas or anytime is to give God's Word, framed, to be kept constantly before their eyes on the walls of their home! You can order beautiful gifts of scripture, written in calligraphy at www.Manuscriptures.com.

Nobody ever outgrows Scripture;

the book widens and deepens with our years.

-- Charles H. Spurgeon

OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH

Hopefully we all show appreciation to our pastors and their wives all year long, but an encouraging word or a card from us would certainly be appreciated by them. Pastors have a difficult job, as they shepherd the flock!   They are human beings just like the rest of us. Recently I heard a radio pastor mention how many of us expect way too much of our pastor. He hears so many complaints during the week, that by Friday he's ready to sit down to a meal of "Lamb Chops!"

THE PERFECT PASTOR

           Results of a computerized survey indicate that the perfect pastor preaches exactly 15 minutes. He condemns sin, but never embarrasses anyone. He works from 8 a.m. until midnight and is also the janitor. He makes $60 a week, wears good clothes, drives a new car, and gives $50 a week to the poor. He is 28 years old, has been preaching for 25 years, is wonderfully gentle and handsome, loves to work with teenagers and spends countless hours with senior citizens. He makes 15 calls daily on parish families, shut-ins and hospital patients, and is always in his office when needed.         If your pastor does not measure up, simply send this letter to six other parishes that are tired of their pastors, too. Then bundle up your pastor and send him to the church at the top of the list. In one week you will receive 1,643 pastors. One of them should be perfect.

IF MEN HAD CHOSEN THE APOSTLES Author unknown - Contributed by Barb Campbell in Mississippi

TO: Jesus, Son of Joseph Woodcrafters Carpenter Shop Nazareth 25922

FROM: Jordan Management Consultants Jerusalem 26544 Dear Sir: Thank you for submitting the résumés of the twelve men you have picked for management positions in your new organization. All of them have not taken our battery of tests; and we have not only run the results through our computer, but also arranged personal interviews for each of them with our psychologist and vocational aptitude consultant. The profiles of all tests are included, and you will want to study each of them carefully. As part of our service and for your guidance, we make some general comments, much as an auditor will include some general statements. This is given as a result of staff consultation and comes without any additional fee. It is the staff opinion that most of your nominees are lacking in background, education and vocational aptitude for the type of enterprise you are undertaking. They do not have team concept. We recommend that you continue your search for persons of experience in managerial ability and proven capability. Simon Peter is emotionally unstable and given to fits of temper. Andrew has absolutely no qualities of leadership. The two brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, place personal interest above company loyalty. Thomas demonstrates a questioning attitude that would tend to undermine morale. We feel that it is our duty to tell you that Matthew has been blacklisted by the Greater Jerusalem Better Business Bureau. James, the son of Alpheaus, and Thaddaeus definitely have radical leanings, and they both registered a high score on the manic-depressive scale. One of the candidates, however, shows great potential. He is a man of ability and resourcefulness, meets people well, has a keen business mind and has contacts in high places. He is highly motivated, ambitious and responsible. We recommend Judas Iscariot as your comptroller and right-hand man. All the other profiles are self-explanatory. We wish you every success in your new venture. Sincerely Yours, Jordan Management Committee "For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart" (Isa.16:7).
DOES THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU? "Why do I have to swear on the Bible in court when the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed in a federal building?" "Why is it that our children can't read a Bible in school, but they can in prison?" Thanks to Angela Thompson in Virginia for sending both quotes!

      Please remember to pray for each Heart to Heart lady as you receive your newsletter.

(¨`·.·´¨)                           God bless you and your family in a special way!

`·.¸(¨`·.·´¨)                                      Your Heart to Heart friend,

      `·.¸.·´                                                       Lois

The purpose of the Heart to Heart Newsletter is to bring godly and practical encouragement to women through creative ideas for the Christian family regarding homemaking, marriage, children and much more. You may receive this bimonthly newsletter by sending your name, city, state, country and the name of the person who referred you to Lois Breneman at [email protected].
  --  To unsubscribe, send ANY message to: [email protected]  

Posted by: jhbreneman <jhbreneman@...>

HEART TO HEART NEWSLETTER
ENCOURAGEMENT TO WOMEN
Compiled especially for you with love by Lois Breneman

~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~

10/6/05 PICNICS, PRACTICAL TIPS, PUMPKINS, PASTORS, APOSTLES

~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~:~*~

IN THIS ISSUE:

COOLER WEATHER - A PERFECT TIME FOR A FAMILY PICNIC

CHICKEN SALAD

IF YOU GIVE A MOM A MUFFIN

SUPER EASY "READY-TO-EAT" HOT WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL!

REPAIRING THE BREACH

PRACTICAL MISCELLANEOUS TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

SAVE OVER $2,000 IN YOUR BABY'S FIRST YEAR

ANALOGY OF THE PUMPKIN

"PUMPKIN PATCH" AND SONGS FOR HOLIDAYS ALL YEAR LONG

PAINTED PICTORIAL PUMPKINS, and PERFECT PRACTICALITIES

CHRISTMAS TIPS

OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH

THE PERFECT PASTOR

IF MEN HAD CHOSEN THE APOSTLES

DOES THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU?

COOLER WEATHER - A PERFECT TIME FOR A FAMILY PICNIC

With the cooler weather, now's the time to find a nice quiet spot to enjoy the outdoor beauty and each other while having a picnic. Our local community college has a lovely arboretum that is perfect, with the beautiful gardens and a large gazebo with benches all around to spread out the food. In case it might be occupied, we take along a quilt.

If you live near beautiful mountains as we live near the Blue Ridge Mountains, enjoy the spectacular view as you picnic. We also have a favorite spot called Happy Hollow, where the pink, red and white azaleas surround us in the springtime. "Our table" sets in the midst of a wooden walkway and a bridge going over a rippling brook. For a quick spur of the moment picnic, sometimes I make dinner in an electric skillet. We just pack it in the car and drive ten minutes up the mountain for a hot picnic with no fuss, for a change of scenery.

Find several special picnic spots that are enjoyable for your family - maybe even in your own back yard with escalating gas prices!

CHICKEN SALAD

Contributed by Elaine Breneman, Pennsylvania

2 cups diced cooked chicken 1/4 cup slivered almonds

1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup chopped celery Enough mayonnaise to mix and moisten

1 cup red grapes, cut in half

Combine ingredients and serve individually on beds of lettuce. Serves 6.

IF YOU GIVE A MOM A MUFFIN

By Kathy Fictorie ~ used by permission from the author

Based on the book, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Numeroff

If you give a mom a muffin,
She'll want a cup of coffee to go with it.
She'll pour herself some.
The coffee will get spilled by her three year old.
She'll wipe it up.
Wiping the floor, she will find some dirty socks.
She'll remember she has to do some laundry.
When she puts the laundry in the washer,
She'll trip over some snow boots and bump into the freezer.
Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan supper for tonight.
She will get out a pound of hamburger.
She'll look for her cookbook. (101 Things To Make With a Pound of Hamburger.)
The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail.
She will see the phone bill which is due tomorrow.
She will look for the checkbook.
The checkbook is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two year old.
She'll smell something funny.
She'll change the two year old.
While she is changing the two year old the phone will ring. (Of course!)
Her five year old will answer it and hang up.
She remembers that she wants to phone a friend to come over for coffee on Friday.
Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup.
She will pour herself some.
And chances are, if she has a cup of coffee,
Her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.

SUPER EASY "READY-TO-EAT" HOT WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL!

Tired of spending so much money on cold cereals for your family - for so little nutritional value? A much healthier, more satisfying, tastier and less expensive way to eat breakfast is to use whole grain kernels, which can be purchased in the heath foods section of your grocery store or health foods co-op. The hard kernels of grain will expand and split open in the hot water overnight, releasing the untouched nutrients -- no bleaching or removal of the rich fiber!

Before going to bed put 1/2 cup of whole grain kernels (wheat, oats or spelt) into a good wide mouth glass-lined Thermos bottle. Add almost 2 cups of boiling water, stir and put on the lid (no salt yet). In the morning, drain water (save for soups), pour cereal into a dish, add a dash of salt, a little butter and sweetener. Sliced banana or berries are also delicious in this whole grain cereal.

To make Old Fashioned Oatmeal, start with ½ cup uncooked old fashioned rolled oats in the Thermos. Pour a little more than 1 cup boiling water over the oats. Stir and seal tightly. In the morning you will have creamy cooked oatmeal! You can also add dried fruit to the Thermos the night before. Actually the cooking time for oatmeal is only about 2 hours, but it should still be hot by morning.

This only makes about two servings, but if you have a carafe' you could increase the number of servings. I've also used the "cooked" whole grain to sprinkle over a green salad or use as a substitute for rice. The nutty flavor adds a nice touch, as well as good nutrition. Once it is cooked, refrigerate the grain, if not eaten while hot. You'll be hooked once you try this quick and easy way to better nutrition. Be sure to let your older parents know about this tip. It's perfect for two servings!

REPAIRING THE BREACH

By Roy Lessin, Co-Founder DaySpring Cards ~ Contributed by Lisa Larson, Missouri

I had rebuilt the wall, and there was no breach left therein. Nehemiah 6:1

The devastation created by hurricane Katrina has brought us so many powerful, mind-boggling images. Daily, the things that we have seen on television have moved us with compassion, touched our hearts, and motivated us to respond.

One of the images that greatly impacted me was the massive task of repairing the breach in one of the levee walls. As I watched a steady stream of giant sandbags being dropped into the water by helicopters, it seemed like the sandbags were disappearing into a bottomless pit. I wondered if the needed repair would ever be made. What a joy it was to see the levee, days later, with the breach repaired, and sandbags actually sitting above the waterline.

In Psalms 51:6 we read, Behold, You (God) desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part, You will make me to know wisdom. God desires that His truth be established within us. His truth can be likened to a protective wall that guards us from the damaging lies of the enemy. Truth's protective wall helps to establish our hearts in love and grace. It provides a positive environment where our spirits can be nurtured and our faith can grow.

Whenever we allow one of Satan's lies to enter our hearts, we create a breach in truth's protective wall. As long as the breach remains, our hearts will be flooded with doubts, fears, and condemning thoughts that God never intended us to dwell upon thoughts that will rob us of our peace and steal our joy.

Here are seven lies that can breach God's protective wall of truth within you:

1. God can't be trusted. (The truth isGod is faithful.)

2. God is against you. (The truth isGod is for you.)

3. You are not good enough to be blessed. (The truth isChrist is your righteousness and you have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in Him.)

4. God cares about others more than He cares about you. (The truth isGod cares for you.)

5. God really doesn't love you. (The truth isGod loves you with an everlasting love.)

6. Your situation is hopeless. (The truth isWith God, nothing is impossible.)

7. Things will never change. (The truth isGod makes all things new.)

If you have allowed a lie of the enemy to breach your protective wall of truth, begin to rebuild that breach today. Reject the lie and start dropping the sandbags of God's promises into that breach. Soon, there will be no opening left for the enemy's lie to impact your life. Receive the Lord's cleansing, and allow the blood of Jesus to wash away all the pollution that the lie has brought into your life. As the blood washes you, the peace of God and the joy of the Lord will fill your heart once again.

PRACTICAL MISCELLANEOUS TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

All tips from other sources were used by permission

Hair on Bathroom Floor ~ One of the worst parts of cleaning the bathroom has to be washing the floor. I can never seem to sweep up all the stray hairs off the floor before washing it and I end up with a bunch of wet hair sliding around the floor as I try to scoop it up while washing the floor. A while ago I had the idea to use a sticky lint brush on the floor before washing it. It worked like a charm! I just rolled it over the floor and it picked up all the stray hairs and lint. It was easy and for once I felt like the floor was truly clean! -- Laura, 31, from NC - http://www.mommysavers.com (I'm wondering how you could attach a long handle to it to save stooping. - Lois)

Ink Stains on Clothing ~ Recently I tried to remove ink stains on clothing for a friend, using hair spray and industrial cleaner. A lot of ink did actually come out, but a bad stain still remained. The next day I read a tip on how Pine Sol, rubbed into an ink stain with an old toothbrush, removed all of a terrible stain for someone after a pen exploded. Lestoil is another very powerful cleaner which may work. I know it works on stubborn wall stains. ~ Lois

Keeping Kids Quiet ~ To keep a child quiet during an important event (wedding, graduation,
funeral, etc...), try pipe cleaners. You can make all kinds of shapes with them. During a family member's graduation, my daughter stayed quiet for about an hour making flowers, bees, kites, butterflies, and stick figures. We found a large color variety pack at our Dollar Tree for $1. Beware! Making a pair of eyeglasses causes children to erupt into laughter when they put them on. -- LeeAnne, 30, Tennessee - http://www.mommysavers.com

The remainder of these tips are from The Dollar Stretcher - http://www.stretcher.com:

Wart Removal ~ Our pediatrician recommended that we put good quality duct tape on a just washed foot to remove my 4-year-old's wart. He said that the tape should be left on as long as it will stay (several days to weeks). When removed, the wart comes out also! I would not have believed this if the doctor himself hadn't told me. TD (Melaleuca oil, also known as tea tree oil has also been proven to remove warts in about 2 weeks, with no scars. - Lois)

Personalized Greeting Card ~ I send photos of the family or our daughter in lieu of birthday cards, but I have come up with a twist that my family always enjoys, which is personalization! Recently, I wrote a personalized birthday greeting on plain paper, had my 15-month-old daughter hold it up, and snapped her picture. Her great aunt was so tickled that the pictures made the rounds of all the family! Nancy

Grandma's Comforter ~ I have been making comforters for at least 40 years using out-of-fashion wool clothing. I take apart, wash, press and cut the blocks. I stick to wool because it is so warm. I sometimes use a bathroom tile for a template; plastic or ceramic are more durable. I would guess I have made at least 150 of these comforters. The grandkids get them when they go off to college and they love the cozy feeling of home. I have 45 grandchildren from 15 children. I am not much for crafts, but this is so easy and so appreciated. P.

In Case of Theft ~ I had my purse stolen and had everything in it as I was visiting my mother in New York. Do not keep your Social Security card, birth certificate, extra credit cards, etc. in your purse. Photocopy the front and back of whatever you do keep in your purse/wallet. It is a good idea to photocopy all of those documents anyway. In the case of credit cards, hand write (in large-enough-to-read numbers) tiny customer service numbers that are printed on the card. I had to try to get a Social Security card with no identification to prove who I was. The person who stole my purse had all of the information. Don't forget to call the credit bureau (you only need to call one). The bank can give you the number. Also call the FTC. They can notify other states of the theft of your information. Patt

Healthy Doggie Treats ~ We all know how healthy broccoli is for us, but did you know that most dogs like it too? When I am preparing broccoli or cauliflower, I slice the stems into "coins," stick them in a baggie, and pop them in the freezer. My dogs love the "frozen treats" and come running when they hear "bag noise" coming from the freezer! Emmie

30 Cent per Gallon All-Purpose Cleaner ~ I have always said to clean a house you only need four basic items: liquid bleach, white vinegar, baking soda and ammonia. Recently, I watched a TV program that suggested an old Amish recipe for an all-purpose cleaning solution. Combine 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup white vinegar with a
gallon of water. Shake well and pour the solution into a spray bottle. I've used this cleaning solution to clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces, sinks, showers, tubs, countertops, cupboards, and floors. It eats through grease on the stove and exhaust hood. With a slightly stronger version of the mixture (using 1/3 cup instead), I recently cleaned my oven with minimal elbow grease after spraying and leaving the solution to sit for a while before wiping off. To clean windows, use about 1/3 to 1/2 cup white vinegar with a gallon of water and wipe clean with newspaper. With these mixtures, there is no harsh chemical smell and you can breathe while you clean. I figure the trio solution costs me about 30 cents per gallon. A gallon would fill one of those expensive name brand spray bottles about four times. I figure that every time I fill it, I am saving a minimum of $1.80! Brian M.

SAVE OVER $2,000 IN YOUR BABY'S FIRST YEAR

By Kimberly Danger - http://www.mommysavers.com - Used by permission

According to a recent MSN study, the average family will spend around $10,000 before their child reaches the age of two. How did such tiny creatures become so expensive? The good news is there are hundreds, even thousands of ways to save money without depriving you or your baby of anything. Here are a few that deliver the biggest bang for your buck:

Breastfeeding ~ Not only is breastfeeding the healthiest option for your baby, its the most economical as well. Breastfeeding exclusively in the first six months of babys life will give his immune system a head start, and leave more cash in your pocket. However if breastfeeding isnt practical for you, you can still save money. By law, generic formula has to meet the same FDA standards as brand name formula, and costs about 30% less. You can also sign up for manufacturers mailing lists to receive free formula, and ask your pediatrician for samples at your well-baby checkups. Estimated savings: $700/year

Switch to Generic Diapers ~ Generic disposables are better than ever these days, and are comparable to their brand-name counterparts. Most come with cloth-like covers and Velcro-like tabs that make refastening diapers a breeze. Favorite brands include those found at Target and White Cloud from Wal-Mart, which cost about 30% less than premium brands. Save even more by making your own baby wipes at home (the instructions are found in the book, 1000 Best Baby Bargains). Estimated savings: $200-300/year

Buy the Majority of your Childs Wardrobe at Garage Sales ~ Because babies grow so quickly, they barely have time to wear out their cute little outfits. There are some great deals to be found on secondhand items, especially at garage sales. Often times, you can pick up used clothes in great condition for a dollar or even less. If youre hesitant, dont be. Once the tags are off, all clothes are secondhand anyway. After all, its a lot easier to watch your child spit up on his $1 sleeper than one you bought for $15. Estimated savings: $400/year

Purchase Baby Gear at Secondhand or Consignment Stores ~ Because they have tough standards for the quality of items they sell, you can often find gently used gear in great condition at secondhand or consignment stores. This includes strollers, bouncers, monitors, high chairs, etc. For safetys sake, ask the store if they check items they sell for recalls. One note of caution: you should never buy a used car seat unless you know its exact history. Hairline fractures to the frame could compromise babys safety and are sometimes impossible to see. Estimated savings: $250-500

Opt for the Shabby Chic Nursery ~ Transforming your babys room into an infant wonderland doesnt have to be expensive. Scout out the best deals on used furniture at garage sales, thrift stores, antique stores, or even your parents basement. Even parents-to-be without an ounce of artistic talent can paint a mural on babys wall with the help of an overhead projector. Mismatched dressers, book shelves, and rockers can be given a coat of paint so theyll coordinate with each other and match the room. Estimated Savings: $500+

ANALOGY OF THE PUMPKIN

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff -- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light Inside you to shine for all the world to see.

"PUMPKIN PATCH" AND SONGS FOR HOLIDAYS ALL YEAR LONG

If you visit http://www.maryricehopkins.com, you'll hear the "Pumpkin Patch" sound byte from the kids newest favorite album, "Sing Through the Year." Why not bring the gospel in a positive way to your little ones this year around Halloween time? I have always struggled with how to shed a new light on this holiday that is personally not my favorite. The Pumpkin Patch song does just that. The lyrics resonate the gospel with:

"He took the yucky stuff out of me
Carved a smile and eyes to see
Then He came inside my heart
And placed a candle in the dark."

We can bring the light of Jesus to a dark world this fall. In addition, you might want to check out the wonderful Devotion in Motion by Brenda Carpenter and Linda Stevenson. You will love the free downloadable object lesson along with craft, lyrics and ideas to use around your harvest theme. The only thing you really need to add is some pumpkins and some music!

PAINTED PICTORIAL PUMPKINS, and PERFECT PRACTICALITIES

Various Ways of Decorating with Pumpkins

By Lois Breneman, © Revised 2005, Heart to Heart Newsletter, [email protected]

*Glue dried pansies on a pumpkin and coat with mod podge (from a fabric, craft or hobby store) or several coats of white glue slightly thinned with water. It will dry clear and protect the pictures. Use inside the house or on a covered porch.

* Glue color copies of your family on a pumpkin. If you have fall pictures to use, that would be perfect! Cover pictures with mod podge or several coats of white glue slightly thinned with water.

* Of course, pumpkins can be used as decorative touches in planning any outdoor displays for fall. Arrange a display of assorted pumpkins in an old wheelbarrow, basket or wagon.

* Decorate a mantle or table with pumpkins, gourds, colorful leaves and mums, intertwining clear miniature lights in and around the fall harvest.

* Use pumpkins as punch bowls for cider.

* Turn scooped out pumpkins into serving bowls for soups, stews and chili.

* Use smaller pumpkins for individual serving bowls.

* Use the tiniest pumpkins or gourds as place cards for a meal, especially at Thanksgiving.

* Turn small pumpkins or gourds into candle holders by scooping out and inserting votive candles.

*A scooped out pumpkin makes a wonderful vase for colorful fall flowers! Simply insert florist's foam inside the pumpkin for easy arranging.

* Paint flowers and ivy all around the surface of a pumpkin with acrylic paints!

* Sponge paint a pumpkin, using a deeper orange on a sponge, and dabbing all over.

CHRISTMAS TIPS

A Treasured Gift ~ When my son, Patrick, was in 1st grade, his teacher had the kids make finger prints on note-sized paper. Then she turned them all into little mice with ears and a tail. They were our Christmas gifts from our children that year. I still treasure mine. - Bernie Teague, MO (This would make a wonderful personal gift from your children to teachers and family members. You could help them make fingerprint animals on either note cards or Christmas ornaments. - Lois)

Scriptures in Calligraphy ~ A wonderful gift for family and friends at Christmas or anytime is to give God's Word, framed, to be kept constantly before their eyes on the walls of their home! You can order beautiful gifts of scripture, written in calligraphy at http://www.Manuscriptures.com.

Nobody ever outgrows Scripture;

the book widens and deepens with our years.

-- Charles H. Spurgeon

OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH

Hopefully we all show appreciation to our pastors and their wives all year long, but an encouraging word or a card from us would certainly be appreciated by them. Pastors have a difficult job, as they shepherd the flock! They are human beings just like the rest of us. Recently I heard a radio pastor mention how many of us expect way too much of our pastor. He hears so many complaints during the week, that by Friday he's ready to sit down to a meal of "Lamb Chops!"

THE PERFECT PASTOR

Results of a computerized survey indicate that the perfect pastor preaches exactly 15 minutes. He condemns sin, but never embarrasses anyone. He works from 8 a.m. until midnight and is also the janitor. He makes $60 a week, wears good clothes, drives a new car, and gives $50 a week to the poor. He is 28 years old, has been preaching for 25 years, is wonderfully gentle and handsome, loves to work with teenagers and spends countless hours with senior citizens. He makes 15 calls daily on parish families, shut-ins and hospital patients, and is always in his office when needed. If your pastor does not measure up, simply send this letter to six other parishes that are tired of their pastors, too. Then bundle up your pastor and send him to the church at the top of the list. In one week you will receive 1,643 pastors. One of them should be perfect.

IF MEN HAD CHOSEN THE APOSTLES Author unknown - Contributed by Barb Campbell in Mississippi

TO: Jesus, Son of Joseph Woodcrafters Carpenter Shop Nazareth 25922

FROM: Jordan Management Consultants Jerusalem 26544 Dear Sir: Thank you for submitting the résumés of the twelve men you have picked for management positions in your new organization. All of them have not taken our battery of tests; and we have not only run the results through our computer, but also arranged personal interviews for each of them with our psychologist and vocational aptitude consultant. The profiles of all tests are included, and you will want to study each of them carefully. As part of our service and for your guidance, we make some general comments, much as an auditor will include some general statements. This is given as a result of staff consultation and comes without any additional fee. It is the staff opinion that most of your nominees are lacking in background, education and vocational aptitude for the type of enterprise you are undertaking. They do not have team concept. We recommend that you continue your search for persons of experience in managerial ability and proven capability. Simon Peter is emotionally unstable and given to fits of temper. Andrew has absolutely no qualities of leadership. The two brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, place personal interest above company loyalty. Thomas demonstrates a questioning attitude that would tend to undermine morale. We feel that it is our duty to tell you that Matthew has been blacklisted by the Greater Jerusalem Better Business Bureau. James, the son of Alpheaus, and Thaddaeus definitely have radical leanings, and they both registered a high score on the manic-depressive scale. One of the candidates, however, shows great potential. He is a man of ability and resourcefulness, meets people well, has a keen business mind and has contacts in high places. He is highly motivated, ambitious and responsible. We recommend Judas Iscariot as your comptroller and right-hand man. All the other profiles are self-explanatory. We wish you every success in your new venture. Sincerely Yours, Jordan Management Committee "For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart" (Isa.16:7).

DOES THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU? "Why do I have to swear on the Bible in court when the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed in a federal building?" "Why is it that our children can't read a Bible in school, but they can in prison?" Thanks to Angela Thompson in Virginia for sending both quotes!

Please remember to pray for each Heart to Heart lady as you receive your newsletter.

(¨`·.·´¨) God bless you and your family in a special way!

`·.¸(¨`·.·´¨) Your Heart to Heart friend,

`·.¸.·´ Lois

The purpose of the Heart to Heart Newsletter is to bring godly and practical encouragement to women through creative ideas for the Christian family regarding homemaking, marriage, children and much more. You may receive this bimonthly newsletter by sending your name, city, state, country and the name of the person who referred you to Lois Breneman at [email protected].

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