What does Toe Jam & Kudzu have in common?

I love going into little mountain shops. The store was right in the middle of "Thomas land." This was a slice of small town life. Home decor, garden decor, Jams, Jellies, toys, jewelry, homemade candles, crafts and novelties.
What does Toe Jam & Kudzu have in common?

Both are turned into jelly.
The Toe Jam (a man had to name this one) is made with Tangerines, oranges & Elderberry juice. So glad that it wasn't made from gunk. Kudzu Blossom is made from the Kudzu blossom's juice. They both taste great.

Birthday Surprises

Will's cake.
This is the 1st time that I did the FBCT (Frozen Butter Cream Transfer)
There is a tutorial on Youtube. It looked easy & it was.
{For some reason, I am not able to flip this picture, sorry}

Will loves music. He said that he wanted a music quilt. He was so surprised because
he never saw or heard me sewing. I waited until they were asleep to work on it or if there were
not home. This is my second finished quilt. I'm still trying to work out some
problems that I've been having.

A Little of This and a Little of That

Outside my window: it is dark and rainy. When we are home, I do love the rain. It is still warm outside. This is the perfect time to dance in the rain. I'll be back. Wanna join us?

I am thinking: that was so fun to dance in the rain with the 'lil bucks. Joy, Joy!

I am thankful for: children who love to do fun and crazy things with Mama. Also, for a hubby who does funny & crazy things too.

We are learning: how to use the resources we have to make things, predicate nominatives, how to write a non-fiction story, my 6 year old is reading, & learning to add, and the boys are learning how to be gentlemen & Faith to be a lady.

From the Kitchen: We had our favorite meal. See recipe below. You may want to try it. Kids love it.

Ultimate Chicken Fingers
(Recipe from the Bisquick box)

chicken strips
2/3 c Bisquick Mix
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic salt
touch of pepper
1 egg, slightly beaten
olive oil

Heat oven to 450. Line cookie sheet with foil; spray with cooking spray. In a dish, mix Bisquick mix, cheese, salt & pepper.

Dip the chicken strips into the scramble egg in a bowl. Then coat with the mix above. Place chicken on cookie sheet. Drizzle olive oil over chicken.

Bake 12-14 min., turning halfway through bake time with pancake turner.

Along with string beans & rice. When I don't have any gravy, I use chicken broth & add lemon juice to it. Delicious!!

I am wearing: a denim skirt, light gray short sleeve sweater with a purple sweater over it- along with a long purple jewel necklace. Wearing no shoes. :)

I am creating: my 2nd quilt, costumes for our children's Christmas program at church, working on Christmas presents.

I am going: to bed soon.

I am reading: Created To Be His Help Meet by Debi Pearl. This is an amazing book. It does however step on your toes. Also, our SS lesson in 3 John.

I am hoping: That Tony is having a great rehearsal for the concert on Thurs. We will have a good day of school tomorrow.

I am hearing: My dear children's voices- being sweet to each other, sharing and encouraging each other. Earlier today, it was a blessing to hear them singing songs unto the Lord.

Around the house: toys here & toys there. Soon to be picked up.

1 of my favorite things: Tom's Salt and Vinegar potato chips.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Celebrate Faith's 4th B-day tomorrow, church, homeschool field trip, clean house, nephew's B-day party.

Until we meet again.....