SheWoodTime...

Peace...

2012-02-13T18:22:00.000-06:00

I heard a definition of Peace today while listening to James MacDonald,

"Peace is the calm assurance that what God is doing is for my best"

I have the sign "Keep Calm and Carry On" in my office...it is a big sign. I think for now on, I will look at the sign differently. Peace, calm...assurance...surely...without doubt...with confidence...just keep on keeping on... persevere by faith.

"God redeems what he allows", for my good...do I believe this? yes...somedays are harder than others, but my heart knows I believe this.

Surely,

Texas Getting $428 Million...

2012-02-13T12:48:00.000-06:00

Many of you heard about the Foreclosure settlement last week, well, in short, read below!

RECON

Real Estate Center Online News

February 10, 2012

TEXAS GETTING $428 MILLION FROM MORTGAGE DEAL

"WASHINGTON, D.C. (San Antonio Express-News) – Federal and state officials yesterday announced a $25 billion foreclosure settlement with five of the nation's largest mortgage lenders. Of that, $428 million will come to Texas. But will it be enough to help?

Of Texas' share, $141 million will go into the state's treasury, while the remaining $287 million will go toward restructuring mortgage loans and to some borrowers whose homes were foreclosed.

But only 2 percent of mortgage holders in Texas may qualify, and they'll probably receive less than $2,000 each. On top of that, the process could take as long as three years.

Real Estate Center Research Economist Dr. Jim Gaines said it looks like the benefit to Texans will be small.

"Of the 3.6 million mortgage loans in Texas, we're going to maybe — maybe — help 85,000 of them," he said.

The five lenders involved in the settlement were Ally Financial, Bank of America, Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo."

Quiet ...

2012-02-11T15:37:00.001-06:00

Ooey Gooey Chocolate Butter Cake by Paula Deen...

2012-02-10T08:00:00.003-06:00

This recipe is coming out on my February 2012 real estate postcard. We loved it and my office did also. So easy and it serves alot!

Ooey Gooey Chocolate Butter Cake
Paula Deen

1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix
1 Stick butter, melted
1 egg
Mix all three and press into a 13 x 9 inch greased pan.

Mix together till smooth,
1 8oz cream cheese, softened
2 eggs
4 T cocoa
4.5 cups of powdered sugar
1 t vanilla
then add in 1 stick butter, melted

Stir in 1 cups nuts. Bake at 350 for 40-50 minutes. Do not overbake. Middle will be ooey gooey :)
Slightly cool before cutting, but I didn't...yum!

Say no to tax...

2012-02-09T17:21:00.000-06:00

Per Texas Association Realtors Blog,

Do your clients owe a 3.8% tax on their home sale?

Posted on February 7, 2012 by Texas Association of REALTORS®

A rumor about a 3.8% federal tax on all home sales has again hit the in-boxes of Texas consumers and real estate agents. So, is there such a tax for all home sales? No.
The facts are that individuals with incomes over $200,000 a year ($250,000 for married couples) will be subject to a 3.8% tax on profits of more than $250,000 ($500,000 for couples) from the sale of a primary residence. So, a husband and wife who make more than $250,000 a year and sell their home for a $510,000 profit would pay $380.

http://texasrealtors.wordpress.com/2012/02/07/do-your-clients-owe-a-3-8-tax-on-their-home-sale/

Those...

2012-02-08T20:26:00.000-06:00

My new favorite,
Proverbs 8:17 Learn this with me,
"I love those who love me,
and those who seek me find me".

Those being believers... Do you believe?

5814 Cross Creek Circle, Tyler, TX 75703...

2012-02-07T15:15:00.000-06:00

New Listing,

http://vt.realbiz360.com/Listing-931669.html

MLS # 10018414 offered at $199,900

Courage, As for me and my House, We WILL serve the Lord...

2012-02-04T21:17:00.000-06:00

We watched this movie tonight. How this reminds me of my father! He taught me to love the Lord my God with all my heart, and that is all that matters. Do Right, no matter what, do right, till the stars fall out of the Heavens...

I have messed up so many times with my child. I pray that I can read the "resolution" below and go forward to teach her and Layton. I suppose with adult children, you lead by example. What a responsiblity we have as parents.

Loved the movie, cried most of the time!

The Resolution Message:
"I do solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children.
I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home.
I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me.
I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength.
I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly.
I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy.
I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion.
I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family.
I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged.
I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God.
I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will.
I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory.
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15"

Surely,

Interesting fact...

2012-02-03T15:22:00.000-06:00

Compare the Tyler Market to DFW, Tyler Market 11.4 months of inventory, DFW under 5 months. Wow!

SUPPLY OF DFW HOMES DOWN

DALLAS (Dallas Morning News) – At the end of 2011, the number of pre-owned single-family homes on the market in the Metroplex was at the lowest level in a decade.

About 27,000 homes were listed for sale with real estate agents in North Texas, 35 percent less than the record 41,647 listings in 2007 and the lowest number since 2001, according to statistics from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and North Texas Real Estate Information Systems.

“Since sales have maintained a fairly consistent level, the inventory measure is down under five months, which would normally indicate a very strong sellers’ market,” said Center Research Economist Dr. Jim Gaines.

And it's not just existing homes that are down in number. The Dallas Morning News reported that around 3,000 finished vacant new homes are in the DFW area. That's about a fourth as many as in 2007

Darkness matters...

2012-02-02T21:11:00.000-06:00

My Utmost for His Highest
Oswald Chambers

Little did I know that when I read this in an email this morning, that I needed it today!

"At times God puts us through the discipline of darkness to teach us to heed Him.

Watch where God puts you into darkness, and when you are there keep your mouth shut. Are you in the dark just now in your circumstances, or in your life with God? Then remain quiet. If you open your mouth in the dark, you will talk in the wrong mood: darkness is the time to listen.

When you are in the dark, listen, and God will give you a very precious message for someone else when you get into the light." Oswald Chambers

5 smooth stones...

2012-02-01T21:11:00.020-06:00

I read about David and Goliath today. Love the story. Small David, ruddy, handsome, youngest son of Jesse, brothers were jealous of him, shepherd, loved his father, chosen by God, confident, surely...

Just 5 smooth stones, and he ran towards Goliath, slung his stone, knocked out Goliath, cut his head off, and the whole world knew that there was a God in Israel.

You know what David told Goliath before his death? "I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defiled." I Samuel 17

Let's mosey on over to Psalm 33, I am always amazed at how the scriptures read together, so random, but I don't believe in random...ness...

"No king is saved by the size of his army;

no warrior escapes by his great strength."

"But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,

on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,"

5 smooth stones, little strength, Big God...

little David, Big God...

big Goliath, Bigger God...

Once again, Ordinary You, Extraordinary God...

Busy...ness...

2012-01-31T22:03:00.000-06:00

Busy...if January is any indication of the real estate market for 2012... then let's all get excited.

2012 started with a boom. Interest rates are still historically low (lowest since the 1950's), housing inventory is 11.4 months, and most seller's are willing and able to accomodate buyers. It is a buyer's market.

Stay tuned, I will try to update as the market moves forward.

Remember, the market will improve as buyer's perception improves. Optimism breeds optimism.

I am optimistic!

I have been reading this book to Layton. The Very Busy Spider. On each page, each farm animal talks to the spider, but

"She didn't answer, she was very busy spinning her web".

I can hear Layton reading this to me on every page as I write this! That lil Texas accent!

Anyway, I feel like this spider,

I haven't blogged, I am very busy spinning my web!

Foreclosure update...

2012-01-29T21:36:00.000-06:00

Thought this was worth repeating,

Texas leads nation in surprising foreclosure statistic

Posted on January 28, 2012 by Texas Association of REALTORS®

With one in every 1,133 homes receiving a foreclosure notice during December 2011, Texas has nowhere near the problem facing states like Nevada (one in 177) and California (one in 254), according to RealtyTrac.

There is one foreclosure measure, though, where Texas ranks first: speed. The foreclosure process last year averaged 90 days in the Lone Star State. Foreclosures in New York and New Jersey take 10 times as long, while the national average is nearly a year.

Some argue that a shorter process leads to more foreclosures, since homeowners have less time to make good on late payments and penalties. Others believe that drawn-out proceedings give borrowers an incentive to live in their homes without trying to cure the problem.

You can point homeowners with mortgage difficulties to KeepMyTexasHome.org. The site, created by the Texas Association of REALTORS®, provides comprehensive information about the foreclosure process and resources that could save one of your former or future clients from experiencing just how swiftly a Texas foreclosure can take place.

New Partner Pics...

2012-01-27T21:12:00.000-06:00

We took new partner pics this week. I am one of 9 owners/partners at Cornerstone Brokerage. Brad is our new partner, he is the young one :) I am proud to be associated with all 9 of these wonderful people! These pics are before editing, cropping, etc. It is hard to get a perfect pic with all open eyes, smiles, and lighting. But I think they turned out pretty good!

PS We will miss you Brandy!

Fear the fuzzy :)

2012-01-25T20:15:00.001-06:00

Kitchens Sell...

2012-01-25T14:21:00.000-06:00

I always assume customers and clients know that I am a Realtor and that I list houses and also sell houses. If you are doing a little homework on the web, you might check out this article!

Kitchens Sell...

Oh, and call me if you need me, 903-571-8033... :)

Shame on You, NOT...

2012-01-23T21:11:00.001-06:00

Psalm 25:3

"No one who hopes in you, will ever be put to shame,"

Thank goodness for this verse! I sure pray for wisdom and discernment each day, but sometimes, I feel like the things I say -- just don't make sense or sound plain stupid.

I know each of you have felt this way. Like, hearing and knowing you should say "something" in response to God? then you say it, and think, gosh, I meant to say ______, or did they even understand what I meant.... I forever do this!

I did it today -- I felt led to email a person in response to an issue, and I am not sure what they thought, but I gave it to God. He can deal with the situation.

God knows MY heart, he knows what I am trying to say, I say it, he uses it.

"Say what you mean, and mean what you Say"!

I so understand this! :)

2012-01-21T19:56:00.001-06:00

I can totally relate to this picture.....everyday, torn in so many directions, lol...

Isaiah 9:6, precious!

2012-01-19T22:57:00.001-06:00

Just Ordinary...

2012-01-17T15:31:00.001-06:00

Been thinking, heard a phrase,
"Ordinary You, Extraordinary God".

1 Samuel 16:7

"But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

I feel ordinary, do you? I feel extra - ordinary, not "extraordinary". Get it?

If you admit it, Everyone is ordinary. Life is ordinary. Work is ordinary. Even the word "ordinary" is ordinary. You know even if you do feel "extra ordinary", doesn't that become ordinary?

Everything about God is extraordinary. Look at Creation. Look at each other. Look how different we all are. How sad would it be if we were all alike. God's extraordinariness gives me Hope. God has prepared a place for us that our minds cannot imagine. Now think on that one!

Getting back to the verse. So, in my "ordinariness", I can be thankful that God sees what is in my heart rather than my appearance. Don't even get me started on my appearance. I am sure we all can name a few things we would change, right? BUT, What does God see when he looks at my heart?

That is one I will think on... I want God to see an extraordinary heart... because an Extraordinary God has changed me. I serve an Extraordinary God. One God, One Lord of All.

Cinnamon Roll Cake...

2012-01-17T14:07:00.000-06:00

Cinnamon Roll Cake- I found on Pinterest via "Cookinupnorth"
It is amazing, gooey, very rich, fattening and it looks like the pic above...

Cake:
3 c. flour
1/4 tsp.salt
1 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 c. milk
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. butter, melted

Topping:
1 c. butter, softened
1 c. brown sugar
2 Tbsp. flour
1 Tbsp. cinnamon

Mix everything together except for the butter. Slowly stir in the melted butter and pour into a greased 9x13 pan. For the topping, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Drop evenly over the batter and swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 for 28-32 minutes.

Glaze:
2 c. powdered sugar
5 Tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla

While warm drizzle the glaze over the cake.

Gentleness...

2012-01-13T14:55:00.002-06:00

Time to memorize another set of verses, I wrote these verses on paper in this order and put on my desk at work. I always have to memorize in bits...short bits... learn this with me!

Wouldn't the world be different if, we all let our "gentleness be evident to all"?

Philippians 4: 4-7

"Rejoice in the Lord always.

I will say it again: Rejoice!

Let your gentleness be evident to all.

The Lord is near.

Do not be anxious about anything,

but in every situation,

by prayer and petition,

with thanksgiving,

present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

New Muffin Recipe...

2012-01-11T21:00:00.001-06:00

I am always trying to find breatkfast ideas... This is my next recipe to try... I follow this blog,
www.canyoustayfordinner.com

Healthier Morning Glory Muffins

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup sugar
1½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ teaspoon salt
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (including juices)
1½ cups shredded carrots (2-3 medium)
½ cup raisins
½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
½ cup walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12 cup muffin tin with paper cups.
In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat together oil, eggs, and pineapple (including pineapple can juices). Stir egg mixture into the flour mixture, just until combined.
Stir in the carrot, raisins, coconut, and walnuts. Scoop batter into prepared muffin cups.
Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.

makes 12

I don't spoil Layton :)

2012-01-08T21:12:00.002-06:00

Revealed...

2012-01-05T12:51:00.002-06:00

I am amazed each day, when you "seek", you "find"...

The last verses of Romans 16, I underlined this morning,

"Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past,

but now revealed

and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God,

so that all nations might believe and obey him—

to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

In the emailed newsletter from church today, I am reading:

"Look, if you say that science will eventually prove there is no God, on that I must differ. No matter how small they take it back, to a tadpole, to an atom, there is always something they can't explain, something that created it all at the end of the search.

"And no matter how far they try to go the other way--to extend life, play around with the genes, clone this, clone that, live to one hundred and fifty--at some point, life is over. And when that happens? When life comes to an end?"

"You see?" He leaned back. He smiled.

"When you come to that end, that's where God begins."

Have a Little Faith

Mitch Albom

Precious Haven Grace...

2012-01-04T22:28:00.001-06:00

I posted this pic in Feb 2011, Haven came to see me at my office. She is 3 years old, has been sick most of her life, had a heart transplant, and today went to be with Jesus! I have been a prayer warrior for this child and I know her grandparents and uncle well. I am so heartbroken for her family but I know she is happy and healthy tonight!
My thoughts and prayers are with the Davis' family. Haven touched so many lives...

Overflowing H.O.P.E...

2012-01-03T22:13:00.001-06:00

I saw this pic while surfing the web. I believe it makes me happy... I love the colors, and I love the happiness it represents. Everyone loves a party, parties are happy!

So, where am I going with this? I had a bad dream last night, in fact, a dream that involves my family, a situation that cannot be healed without God. Frankly, it seems hopeless. As I was reading Romans this morning, these two verses stayed with me all day. I pondered,

Romans 15:4

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope."

Romans 15:13

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. "

So, another words, I must not give up praying for this impossible situation. The Bibile teaches me from past experiences. I must trust in God, in everything, and in doing so, I will be filled with Joy and Peace. Guess what that produces? Hope.. We all need Hope!

But wait, "overflow with Hope"? I want that! When I think of overflow, I think of water. Have you ever had your bathtub overflow? Yea, you know what happens? Water spills over the side, it spreads, it touches everything that it comes in contact with. Yea, that is the Hope I want. My hope may encourage others. Overflowing Hope... yea that is good. So, today, I choose to trust, I am back on track, I know God is in control. Each time my mind travelled back to that dream, that situation, I actually had peace. I will remain hopeful.

Remember the song, "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart, I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart, down in my heart to stay". (you sang it right? :), just singing that makes you happy, right? Do you have Joy?

Coincidently, (if you know me, you know I do not believe in coincidences),
Today, I hung a sign in my office, it says, (get ready)

SCATTER JOY...

Surely,

Happy Anniversary again JB...

2012-01-01T00:15:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year!

Happy Anniversary Jason...

2011-12-30T21:35:00.001-06:00

Happy Anniversary Jason!!!!!

If I could "liken" US to any couple, it would be

the Flintstone's. Remember them!

He is a big guy and she is cute and little and has a pebble necklace on! She just listens as he rants. :) and she loves him.

Look at the description of these two,

The main character. Fred is an accident-prone quarry worker and head of the Flintstone clan. He is quick to anger (usually over inconsequential matters), but is a very loving husband and father.

Fred's wife, Wilma, She is more intelligent and level-headed than her husband, though she often has a habit of spending money (with her and Betty's catchphrase being "Da, da, da, CHARGE IT!!").

I am not so sure about the intelligent part! Jason is way more intelligent than I am.

Anyway, Jason, I sure love you! We had a few tough moments this year, but we made it through! I am so glad you are well and with me! You are the man I dreamed of before we were married. I dreamed of a big man, taking care of me and Lauren, always at my side, even if we don't talk. I love you for loving Lauren and Layton as your own. I love you for sticking by me no matter what. I love you for just "being". I love you for always taking me and be willing to go to church. I love you for loving my parents soooooo. I love you for the wondeful, caring father that you are. I love you for excelling at your career. I love you for loving me even when I know I drive you "bonkers". And, most of all I love you for letting me be me. Muahhh!

December 31, 2003, our Wedding Day

Thanksgiving this year!

June 2011 this year, taken at a wedding...

I had to throw one in of he and Layton this year, Layton wears his glasses just like Boo Boo...

Jason loves Forest Gump, this was in Branson this year!

This was taken at Christmas this year!

We have definitely aged, but hopefully, we have a little more wisdom,
Jason and I are headed to Dallas for the weekend. One of our favorite things to do is spend time with
my Aunt Ruthye and Uncle Hugh on New Year's Eve each year! Hopefully, I can post another pic!

ILUR JB,

Consumed...

2011-12-30T14:10:00.003-06:00

This gift was brought to me by Donna, my mentor, my friend, my family, and she is so precious to me.

When Donna walked in my office today, she came in with a pink bag and shut my door. I thought to myself, oh no, get ready, this is probably going to be a tear jerker, and it was. When I opened the package I found "consumed". I left "consumed" on my desk so that I can look at her each day. Below is why the artist named this piece "consumed".

Consumed portrays a woman longing to be wholly given over to God. Based on Scripture from Song of Solomon 2:10: My beloved spake and said unto me, "Rise up my love, my fair one, and come away ";

You know art speaks to you. It speaks to everyone differently. Donna told me that when she saw this piece, she knew she should buy it for me. I cannot think of any other gift that means more to me than this gift. Donna has seen me at my lowest and she knows that God is transforming me day by day. Never will I be perfect, but my prayer each day is to be closer to God and his will for my life. I pray that my light will shine for Him. As I look at "consumed", I see her opening her life, her heart and her being to her maker! If you have read my early post, you know that I am convinced and I am consumed.

Thank you Donna, I think you know how much this means to me!

I love you, and I cherish your friendship!

Below is the artist' comments,

"She looks totally consumed" commented a friend as she looked at this new piece. As soon as I heard that word, consumed, I knew that was the word the Lord wanted to use as a name for this piece.i

As I searched the scriptures, being consumed seemed a bad thing, a scary thing. But I found that in Hebrew 'consumed' also meant 'finish, complete, perfect.' I turned this over and over in my mind what was the Lord telling me? As I walked in the rain one morning He whispered 'We have a marriage in name only. It has not been consummated.' I was stricken as I felt the piercing of the two edged sword, slicing quickly through to the heart of me. And I knew for all my passionate declarations of love and faith in Jesus, for all my genuine belief in Him, I had not been consumed - not entirely, only bits of me, large bits to be sure, but still, only part. So as I struggle with my own fears of intimacy with the living God, I will tell you this for sure, the Lord s calling you and me, His bride, to be consumed."

Happy New Year almost!

2011-12-30T08:20:00.002-06:00

Get Ready...Get Ready...

2011-12-28T21:37:00.000-06:00

I thought about little Layton as I took a warm blanket, in fact, the "yellow" blanket out of the dryer. I always warm Layton's blanket in the dryer at nap time. Since Layton is not here, I took it to Jason, and he smiled! I said, you are suppose to say, "Get Ready, Get Ready!"...I can hear his little giggly voice in my head.

Anyway, as I was saying this, I thought, I bet God is saying this! Get Ready, Get Ready! I should be just like this little boy, and have a gigglyness (is that a word?) about me in anticipation of what is going to happen next. Just as I warm the blanket in preparation for the ones I love, God is preparing a magnificent place for me, because he loves me so. John 14:2 Surely,

Today, as I was working in my office, paying bills, figuring taxes, looking to the New Year, a sense of "oh my gosh" came over me. Will I make enough money next year?, will my family be well?, will I be alone?, will this be a hard year? I had to stop and say a prayer, and now I realize the verse I read this morning, comes to life,

Thought for the Day: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

So, for me, I will not worry. Worry is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Contentment is a choice. Thankfulness is a choice. I will give praise and thanks to God for always providing and taking care of me. I will capture each thought, I will keep the good and throw out the bad. I have a choice. I have made a choice. I will follow through with my choices!

Surely,

PS Could not help myself with the pic of ketchup...remember that commercial, "anticipation"...

Happy Birthday Jesus...

2011-12-26T21:46:00.000-06:00

Christmas Day 2011... good day, perfect day...fun day...

Happy Birthday Jesus, Layton loves birthdays. I taught Layton a verse last week,

Isaiah 9:6

"For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, and he will be called, wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Mighty God, Prince of Peace".

I thought the verse would be too hard...but, oh my, at lunch he surprised us all. He wanted us to "not talk"! He said the entire verse by himself. This just goes to show you that these little minds, and he is 3.5 years old, can just soak up the word.

I see more verses in his future! His voice was precious, I just wanted to cry! I bet God loves those little sincere voices...

Great day! Great Christmas!

Chippey found the marshmallow gun!

2011-12-25T21:30:00.000-06:00

Chippey smells peppermint!

2011-12-24T21:30:00.000-06:00

Chippey sure likes the view!

2011-12-23T14:23:00.001-06:00

Chippey is looking for candy!

2011-12-22T14:22:00.000-06:00

Convinced...

2011-12-21T22:22:00.002-06:00

Romans 4:20-21

"yet he did not waiver through unbelief regarding the promise of God,

but was strengthened in his faith

and gave glory to God,

being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he promised."

Yep that's Abraham... one old man, one faith, one God, I want to meet him one day. Abraham was old, no children, yet God promised he would have descendants as numerous as the stars and sands on the seashore... yea, wonder what Abraham was thinking? I wonder if he thought "sure God?"...

"Strengthened in his faith"... really? how does that happen. Well, for me, problems, struggles, living with consequences, brings me closer to God, strengthening my faith. Then when faith is strengthened, that's where glory to God peeks around the corner. Faith, thankfulness, praise to God in everything. I bet Abraham was there, he had problems, consequences from wrong decisions, yet his faith was strengthened. Look at that last sentence, Abraham was persuaded, he was Convinced that God had the power to do what he promised. He was convinced... he did not allow disbelief to cloud his thinking. God did as he promised. Issac was born and the story goes on.

I am convinced that God sent his Son, born of a virgin, sinless life, sentenced to death for no reason by man, to die a brutal death, for me, for you, for all of our sins, was buried, resurrected, and is coming back for me one day. I am convinced,

Jesus last words, Revelation 22:20 "Yes I am coming soon".

Are you convinced? His gift of eternal life is "FREE"... it begins with "belief".

Have you ever wondered why something so simple can be so difficult? It would be harder for me to not believe than to believe. It is hard, because no one wants to relinquish control. God wants us to "freely" on our own accord, accept is "free" gift.

Belief + Acceptance of his free gift = Eternal Life B + A = E

By the way, if you are not convinced, don't let me convince you, read the Bible, and there is no doubt in my mind, that you will not be convinced. Try it, you'll like it, (can't remember what that commercial slogan is from)? dates me huh?

I love the Lord, Surely!

Chippey did it!

2011-12-21T20:32:00.000-06:00

Let it SNOW...

2011-12-21T10:18:00.000-06:00

Yea we made snow today and it is messy...once on a rag it will not come off! :)

Woody ...

2011-12-20T21:12:00.001-06:00

He opened his Woody ornament today, he so loves Woody...

Inside that smile is a big wad of bubblegum...

Chippey says it is pretty up here!

2011-12-20T21:11:00.002-06:00

Chippey is so tired from going to the North Pole every night! He thinks he will rest!

2011-12-19T22:40:00.001-06:00

Chippey got into LaLa's Bible...

2011-12-18T20:44:00.001-06:00

Don't tear the pages Chippey!

Oh Christmas Tree...

2011-12-18T20:43:00.001-06:00

My Christmas prize to me... love this lit tree!

My road tells a story...

2011-12-17T08:50:00.001-06:00

Breathtaking... maybe not to you, but my life has so many memories, secrets and blessings on this road. The picture here is taken as I am walking each day. I can remember back as far as being a little girl and coming to the country. I can remember getting my first car and driving down this road. I can remember many Christmas' and birthdays on this road. I can remember pain on this road. I can remember new beginnings on this road. And, I can remember God bringing me to my knees on this road and blessing me beyond words. I do not think there is a day that I come down this hill that my breath is not taken away by the view. I do not think there is a day that my eyes do not fill up with tears, thanking God for giving me such a place to live and blessing me so! This road is filled with days of prayer, this road is filled with overwhelming thankfulness.

1Thess 5

"Rejoice in the Lord always, pray continually and give thanks in all things!"

Proverbs 147:11

"The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love."

Chippey says "what cha doing Kelly"

2011-12-17T08:49:00.001-06:00

Chippey found baby Jesus!

2011-12-16T15:24:00.001-06:00

A lil' elf put this on my desk!

2011-12-15T11:19:00.001-06:00

Sheryl made these "Divine" prizes... a mini glass martini filled with "Pot de Creme"... I can barely say the name, but oh my, it is a burst of flavor in your mouth. Taste of chocolate, coffee, peppermint, topped with a meringue, it is smooth like mousse. I just ate half of mine! Love Love Love!

The presentation is wonderful. Like I say, Presentation is everything!

Chippey wants to light the Fire!

2011-12-15T08:20:00.000-06:00

Chippey says ...

2011-12-14T11:21:00.000-06:00

Nannie Nannie boo boo you can't catch me!

Family Picture...

2011-12-13T19:26:00.000-06:00

I love this pic of me, Jason and my parents! Christmas 2011... special day!

Yes you are...

2011-12-13T19:16:00.001-06:00

I say you are a "not head", he says, "I not a nothead"! Love that boy. He remembers everything I say, sort of scarey. He is holding Blanca so nicely... she has bling!

Chippey made a mess!

2011-12-13T19:15:00.001-06:00

Chippey is excited ! Chocolate!

2011-12-12T22:24:00.001-06:00

Love endures forever...

2011-12-11T22:01:00.001-06:00

I have got to get back to daily blogging. I have been running in circles. Who says real estate is slow in December? lol

Anyway, Just a few thoughts tonight before I get some rest.

I thank you Lord for taking care of me the last two days. I have fallen two times, and I am so extremely thankful I am well. A little sore, but doing fine. Very tired.

I thank you Lord for Jason and for my parents. What a fun time Sunday night with my parents Sunday School friends. Good food and good company. I hope I have a few pics soon.

I thank you Lord for Layton. I was able to keep him Saturday night and take him to church. He was so very good in big church during the Christmas special. I am thankful for Lauren too :)

I thank you Lord for my business. Great clients, but again, tired.

I thank you Lord for Christmas. I love this time of the year, and I am so glad that you sent your Son for me. Jesus loves me so.

I thank you Lord for my friends. Life is special with you.

In repsonse to thankfulness, I remember the verses in Psalm 136, after every "thankful", appears,

His love endures forever.

Read Psalm 136, click here, http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+136&version=NIV

Chippey got in LaLa's coffee...

2011-12-11T09:14:00.001-06:00

Chippey says Santa is pudgy!

2011-12-10T07:32:00.001-06:00

Chippey says 'what's cooking'?

2011-12-09T07:06:00.001-06:00

Chippey found Mistletoe!

2011-12-08T07:07:00.001-06:00

Chippey is just a hangin'...

2011-12-07T10:30:00.001-06:00

Chippey loves Gingerbread!

2011-12-06T06:31:00.001-06:00

Cranberry pistachio cookie...

2011-12-05T20:12:00.001-06:00

I tried a new cookie today, but I changed it a little...

Cranberry Pistachio Cookie

1 pouch Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix

1 box (4 serving size) pistachio instant pudding and pie filling mix

1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup butter, melted

2 eggs

1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl stir cookie mix, pudding, and flour. Add melted butter and eggs and stir until incorporated. Add cranberries and mix well.

Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto a parchment lined cookie sheet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes. Do not overcook. Cool.

Melt white almond bark in the microwave according to directions on the package. Dip the side of the cookie in the almond bark, sprinkle as desired. Yummy!

Chippey says Wheeeee...

2011-12-05T06:56:00.002-06:00

Chippey says Look at me, look at me...

2011-12-04T15:25:00.001-06:00

Christmas at our House!...

2011-12-03T22:11:00.000-06:00

I always wonder how years of "stuff" comes together, but it always does.
So from my house to yours'... Merry CHRISTmas!

Chippey says he is comfy...

2011-12-03T15:24:00.000-06:00

Chippey is looking for Layton...

2011-12-02T15:23:00.000-06:00

Chippey likes trees...

2011-12-01T15:22:00.000-06:00

The Elf on the Shelf...

2011-11-30T20:53:00.000-06:00

Oh my, we are into the Christmas Tradtion, "The Elf on the Shelf"... Layton is just precious. I love a child's imagination!

The synopsis of this tradition is:

"The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition™ is an activity the entire family will enjoy. Based on the tradition Carol Aebersold began with her family in the 1970s, this cleverly rhymed children's book explains that Santa knows who is naughty and/or nice because he sends a scout elf to every home. During the holiday season, the elf watches children by day and reports to Santa each night. When children awake, the elf has returned from the North Pole and can be found hiding in a different location. This activity allows The Elf on the Shelf to become a delightful hide-and-seek game."

Lauren called me tonight, Layton is looking on the Ipad to see pics of the elf, which we named "Chippey" from the movie. I had to send him a pic of "Chippey", which you see above! He sooooo believes!

A boy and his dog...

2011-11-30T20:41:00.000-06:00

If you are on Facebook, I know you already see alot of my pics...but my blog is my diary!

I love this pic that Layton's daddy sent me. This little boy loves this dog... "Aida"

We Believe in Santa :)...

2011-11-28T22:17:00.000-06:00

This looks easy, right? It took an hour to get to this point... I needed to run to the mall, and guess what? Santa was only 30 minutes from starting his picture taking. Layton was so excited until the moment Santa arrived. Once he saw him he was not sitting in his lap. But, he did not want to go home. So, we started out way back, then we inched up in line to the gate, then to steps away from Santa. Poor Layton, he kept his fingers in his mouth and was actually nervous, I think..... but, he would not go home. Then, all of a sudden it was our turn, Santa held out his hands and Layton sat on his knee. You can see in the first 2 pics that he was tearing at his shrit..... forced smile, "cheese", "cheese", he kept saying!

Then, Santa, held Layton's hands and placed them in his lap, there comes that big smile, just like his momma! Lauren, I know you are so glad I am the one doing this! Lauren did not care for sitting in Santa's lap either!

Layton was so proud! We ate lunch and as we headed out, Santa saw him, and said "bye buddy, see ya later", OMG, the look on Layton's face was priceless.

He is getting so big..... I don't have many more days like this! Perfect Day,

Another Perfect Day from God!

Holiday Happy...

2011-11-28T22:02:00.001-06:00

Some things just make me happy, and soaps around the house are on of them! I love Bath and Body Works hand soaps. I made a special trip to the mall (which is not my favorite thing) today with Layton. He is into the soaps also! 6 for $20, and I had a 20% coupon... yea, love this! It is just the small things y'all, presentation...

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-11-23T22:05:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

What a year, and how I am blessed. My family is well and happy. We are missing a few at the table, but they are definitely in our thoughts and prayers. The older I get, the more I realize how much God has entrusted to me.

Today I am thankful for Jason. He is a good husband. He let's me be ME... he is opinionated, hard working, dependable, a good father and Boo Boo, and I love knowing he is with me every night. Before I married him, I dreamed of a big man sitting in a chair, just "being" with me. Thank you God for this man.

Today I am thankful for Lauren. I am blessed to be her mother. She is independent, gorgeous, caring, and a little selfish-being that she is my only child. I think she loves her mother, even though she doesn't listen to me when I give her advice, :) Thank you God you gave me a girl!

Today, OMG, I am thankful for Layton. What a hoot this little man is! He has brought life to this family. He is handsome, funny, strong as an ox, and he loves is LaLa! I miss him today!

Today I am thankful for my mother and daddy. They are my "Rock". I am so blessed to have them living a few steps from me. I am so thankful they raised me in a loving home and for presenting God to me! Thank you God for my loving parents!

Today I am thankful for my sister and brother and their families. Even though I will not see them, I pray for them daily. Thank you God for our future that I know will bring us together.

Today I am thankful for my many Aunts, Uncles and cousins! Wow, what would I do without all of you! Thank you God, with so many, I hope to never be alone!

Today I am thankful God sent his son to die for me, for forgiving me from my sins and saving me. Thank you God, Jesus Lives and is coming back for us believers one day.

Today I am thankful for my business. I am thankful for my partners and agents at Cornerstone Brokerage. Thank you God for all my clients!

I know I cannot list everything, but that was a few!

Remember, in all things, Give Thanks!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours'!!!!

Cake Balls...okay I did it!

2011-11-22T22:13:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I finally tried to make cake balls. Lauren told me that she cried the first time she made them, she was so frustrated. As much as we bake, I could not imagine them being very hard to do...so the fun began.

Cake Balls

Bake a cake according to directions on the BOX :) Any flavor you desire.
While the cake is warm, fold in, one can of bought icing... Any flavor you desire.
I used the Funfetti cake mix and icing.
After mixing, refrigerate 2 hours.
Roll in small balls. Freeze at least 6 hours.
Remove from freezer, melt white chocolate in the microwave according to directions on package.
Dip each ball in the mixture, let dry on parchment or wax paper and decorate as desired.

Wah lah, here they are! :) I am not sure I really know how to dip these lil' stubborn things, but I will learn...

Peacock Blue...

2011-11-20T09:03:00.000-06:00

This is an old pic of the family room, with valances and blinds...

I am in Love with Peacock Blue. I went to Pier 1 Imports and purchased
these curtains, took down the valances and blinds, and wah lah...
Not the best pics but it gives you the idea of a "change"... :)

Date Loaf Candy...

2011-11-20T08:53:00.000-06:00

I love to bake this time of year...you may see more sweets posted!

Date Loaf Candy is a family Tradition

1 cup white sugar

2 cups brown sugar

1 stick butter

1 cup evaporated milk,

Combine in saucepan, cook over medium heat till candy thermometer reaches 234 degrees. Don't let the thermometer skare you, this is so easy!

Remove from heat and add 1 cup chopped pecans, and 1 cup of chopped dates. ( I use the Dole dates, already chopped, resealable bag).

Stir, stir, stir, I wait till it thickens just a tad, then I use a cookie scoop and spoon onto big trays lined with parchment paper. Let cool, and then transfer to a cookie tin. This candy is devine, even more devine with coffee! Oh my, I must go grab a piece.

Turkey Humor...

2011-11-19T22:00:00.000-06:00

I would love to see my family's face if I did this! :)

Big Plans...

2011-11-16T21:40:00.000-06:00

D L Moody,
"If God is your partner, make BIG plans."

I heard this quote today after reading Proverbs 16:3, one of my favorite verses.
"Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed."

I pondered on this today as I received news in my business that I was not the "chosen" Realtor. Yes, I had sought after this client, but I also knew, that I had prayed for God's will in this situation. As I read the email today, I was at peace. God truly is my partner, how can I fail? So, once again, in reading the Bible this morning, about committing all to God, and then listening and retaining what I hear preached, I was totally "okay". We have to remember, do our best, and leave the rest to God. Hey, he is bigger, he is better, He is God. From the beginning, what beginning? we cannot comprehend, the "beginning", but HE was, and will always be. I think I am getting off the subject, but I was listening to James MacDonald this week talking about how vast the universe is, quoting what scientist believe, concering size, galaxies, vastNESS...if that is a word? I woke up yesterday morning thinking about the EARTH, just dangling out in space, I am just a DOT (.), yet, God ordained me from the "beginning". There we are again, the "beginning". If you go there in your mind, how can you not believe there is a GOD? I bet when D L Moody, said, make BIG plans, could he have possibly been thinking about how BIG our God is, how BIG our universe is? How nothing is impossible with God? Hmmm, just sayin'.......

Deep thoughts, more deep thoughts, I am still pondering tonight...

903 Joel Drive, Tyler, TX 75703...

2011-11-15T18:11:00.000-06:00

New Listing...
903 Joel Drive, Tyler, TX 75703 MLS # 10016479 $139,900
Click below for the virtual tour !

http://vu.realbiz360.com/Listing-880689.html

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins...

2011-11-14T14:40:00.002-06:00

This pic courtesy of the internet, I forgot to take one...

My mother's friend Eugenia made these mini muffins, oh my, they taste just like pecan pie. Talk about portion control, :)

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins

Combine 1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar, 1 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 t baking powder, and 1/4 t salt. Stir together 1/2 cup melted butter, 2 large eggs lightly beaten and 1 t vanilla.

Add to dry ingredients. Stir till moistened.

Spray mini muffin pans with "Baker's Joy + Flour". Fill 1/2-2/3 full.

Bake at 350 until toothpick comes out clean.

(A Southern Living Recipe)

Surely Says...Texas Real Estate Update...

2011-11-14T14:34:00.000-06:00

For those of you who do not receive my monthly real estate postcard, here are the stats
on November 2011 card.
Single Family Residential MLS Home Stats
2011 YTD SOLD Stats
$0-$100K         323     22%
$100-$200K      753     52%
$200-$300K      236     16%
$300-$500K      116      8%
$500K +             27       2%

10 Month Current Supply of Properties on the market.
Avg Price Sold           $172,041
Median Price Sold     $144,500

Keeping you informed!

Easy Gingerbread cookies...

2011-11-13T14:12:00.001-06:00

In medium bowl, pour one Gingerbread mix, 2 T melted butter and 1/4 cup hot water.
Stir till moistened.
Preheat oven to 350. I roll 1/2 t dough in a ball and roll in sugar. I can fit around 60 cookies on a
large cookie sheet. I then slightly flatten with a glass dipped in sugar (do so, so slightly)...
Bake for around 8 minutes.

I eat a handful of these cookies everytime I pass them. I love ginger!
Enjoy!

Cake in a Jar...

2011-11-08T18:15:00.002-06:00

Bake Red Velvet Cupcakes, Cool on rack.

I bought 1/2 pint jars...

Cut each cupcake in half...

Put bottom half of cupcake in each jar...

Pipe icing on top of cupcake...

Put top of cupcake on icing, mash down slightly...

Pipe icing on top and sprnkle or decorate to your liking...

Side view... screw on lids...

Tie ribbon around each jar, insert plastic spoon...

Another view...

And another ...

Single view...

I printed labels for Lisa's 50th Birthday Party...

These are so cute and so yummy!
I first saw these on Pinterest!

It's not IF, it's WHEN...

2011-11-06T21:16:00.000-06:00

We are studying James right now in Sunday School. I have pondered on these thoughts today,

James 1:2-3

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."

In talking about trials, Jim quoted "It's not IF, it's WHEN"... of course, my mind went immediately to termites, yes termites. That is what I tell clients, "it's not if, it's when"....I know, I know, I just got you completely off the subject, but I am still human, real estate does take over part of my personality.... to say the least... :)

Anyway, God did not say maybe, he said "whenever" which means when, which means, trials are going to come into your life, (surely-no doubt). I am in the midst of a trial right now. So if I truly believe in God's Holy Word, then I surely know that my faith is being tested and that I AM going to develop perseverance. I often tell others, God's grace is sufficient for each day. I can truly testify to his sufficiency. He is sufficient TODAY, in the present, in the moment, right now, right this very minute! Why do I worry? Live Today, don't doubt tomorrow, don't relive the past, just today! Trials bring us closer to God, temptations take us away from God. Which do I want? I will take trials, hands up!

Okay, a little humor, "it's not IF, it's WHEN"! I am ready for some turkey! Sick humor, I know!

Desktop background...

2011-11-06T20:49:00.000-06:00

I love setting my desktop backgrounds with favorite pics. Just right click on your mouse and select "set as background"... wah...la... :)

Lorri's Favorite Cornbread Dressing...

2011-11-06T10:49:00.002-06:00

It is almost Thanksgiving and I know some of you will ask for this recipe... :)

Lorri's Favorite Cornbread Dressing - Thanksgiving, Gobble-Gobble...

I found this recipe over 10 years ago in the Southern Living Magazine. I figured, since I was getting older and the oldest child, that I had better learn to make dressing. So, 12 years later, here we are and I still love it! So easy, here goes:

Melt 2 T butter in 13 x 9" pan at 425 degrees for 5 minutes.

Mix together 2 cups cornmeal, 1/2 cup flour, 2 t baking powder, 1 t baking soda, 1 t salt and

1 t sugar. Stir together 2 eggs and 2 cups buttermilk and add to dry ingredients. Stir hot butter into batter and pour batter into hot 13 x 9" pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Cool and crumble.

Melt 1 stick butter in skillet. Add (3) bunches of chopped green onions and 4 chopped celery ribs and saute until tender.

In large bowl, combine cornbread, 4 eggs, 1 (16oz) package of Pepperidge Farms Herb Seasoning Stuffing Mix, onion mixture from above and 6 (14.5 oz) cans chicken broth.

Spoon dressing into lightly greased 13 x 9" and a 9" pan. Bake uncovered, 13 x 9" pan for 1 hour and the 9" pan for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

Hint: I make the cornbread 2 days before Thanksgiving. I cool, crumble and put in the refrigerator in a ziploc. I make this recipe the day before and bake the next morning. Can be frozen before baking, thaw in refrigerator for 8 hrs and bake.

Enjoy!

Licked...ugh...

2011-11-02T21:08:00.003-05:00

I know I posted this pic a few days ago, BUT, oh my, this tongue,

I picked Layton up from daycare today. I told him we needed to go get the car washed. We pulled into the car wash on Broadway and Grande, and Layton loved walking down the hallway watching the car move along the track. He could not figure out, how it was driving by itself. :) Anyway, I went and sat down in the waiting area and he walked over to the doors leading outside and just stood there watching the men drying the cars. I looked up and he had his "tongue" on the plate glass door, going back and forth, back and forth.....on that, omg, dirty, germ infested, licked, nasty, God forbidden door. I almost had a silent coronary... I patiently, removed him from the situation and told him he might really, really, really get sick from that lick. I have to laugh now!

Lauren if you are reading this, so sorry... yuck, gross, omg, yuck! I suppose he will survive. If I had had a bottle of windex, I would have sprayed him! (get it?, Big Fat Greek Wedding movie, the father sprayed everyone and thing with windex, a cure all).

Love this little rugrat though!
Muahhhh......

Happy Halloween...

2011-10-31T21:07:00.000-05:00

Spiderman / Woody

Blue ring pop, it is! What a mess!

I only had my phone to take a pic, oh well, this is my only Halloween pic with him! Better luck next time, huh?

Much needed Bible verse...

2011-10-30T22:13:00.000-05:00

I am memorizing a new Bible verse. One that is important to me the longer I live on this Earth!
Deuteronomy 7:26
"Do not bring a detestable thing into your house, or you, like it, will be set apart for destruction.
Utterly abhor and detest it, for it is set apart for destruction."

Abhor meaning to shrink back from, to shudder or tremble.
I did not say this, God says this...

Can't see the forest for the trees?

2011-10-29T21:00:00.000-05:00

pic by katiewallart.com

Read this on Facebook just now,
Lysa TerKeurst writes,
"Why doesn’t Jesus work for me?” is never the right question. Instead, when circumstances shift and we feel like we fall short, we should ask,
“How can I see Jesus even in this?”
The only way I can ask myself this question is when I pull back from whatever situation I’m facing and separate my circumstance from my identity."

Surely Says...Texas Real Estate Update...

2011-10-27T15:19:00.001-05:00

This is a must read article, RE: Residential Mortgages,

Posted on October 27, 2011 by Mark Dotzour-Real Estate Center, Texas A & M

Lender Processing Services (LPS) is an information and technology provider to the mortgage industry. As a byproduct of their efforts, they monitor nearly 40 million mortgage loans and issue a report each month that details the current health of the active mortgages in America.
Here are some facts I found interesting from their October report, which analyzes their mortgage data at the end of September. The facts are listed in order of importance to me.

6,373,000
This is the estimated number of properties that have a mortgage that is 30 days or more delinquent or in foreclosure. This is the “shadow inventory” that you hear about in the media. Potential buyers are aware of this. They are worried that if and when these houses are finally foreclosed and sold, that prices will fall while this avalanche of surplus property is sold. Until this number is dramatically reduced, expect home sales volume to be tepid at best.

FL, MS, NV, NJ and IL

These are the states with the highest percentage of noncurrent loans. This is where the fear of shadow inventory is highest.

MT, AK, WY, SD and ND

These are the states with the lowest percentage of noncurrent loans. This is where the fear of shadow inventory is the lowest. People should be buying homes like hotcakes in these states with mortgage rates at ridiculously low levels.

8.9 percent

The year-over-year change in the foreclosure presale inventory rate is up 8.9 percent. This means that the percentage of homes entering the category of “foreclosure presale” is still going up. We won’t see the peak of the mortgage foreclosure pressure ending until this number starts to drop.
I find LPS to be a useful source of market information

Hot Caramel Apple Cider...

2011-10-27T15:06:00.000-05:00

Another recipe from Real Mom Kitchen... I am so ready for this!
I usually keep all of this on hand anyway. Today is such a cool day, reminds me of the holidays!

Hot Caramel Apple Cider

8 cups or 1/2 gallon apple cider
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping (I used Smuckers)
whipped cream, optional
extra caramel ice cream topping, optional

In a large sauce pan, combine the cider, sugar, and caramel topping.
Cook over medium low heat until simmering stirring frequently. Simmer until heated and well blended.
Serve in cups of mugs. Pipe whipping cream on top and drizzle with additional caramel topping if desired.

Rocky Road Brownies...

2011-10-26T21:39:00.000-05:00

Rocky Road Brownies

One Brownie mix, ( I use the one that has the Hershey Syrup packet)

Prepare according to the package.

Before taking brownies out of the oven, sprinkle lots of minature marshmallows on top of the brownies. Leave in oven a couple of minutes until marshmallows are soft but not brown.

Remove from the oven and top with Homemade Fudge Icing. Cool, or eat while HOT, yum!

Homemade Fudge Icing...delish!

1 Stick Butter

4 T Cocoa

1/3 cup milk

Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat, add cocoa, 1/3 cup milk and whisk constantly, until

the mixture comes to a boil.

Remove from stove, add 4 cups powdered sugar and 1 t vanilla. Stir with wooden spoon till sugar

has melted and is smooth.

Layton was my helper late this afternoon. He is great at licking the bowl, just like his momma was!
Hence the phrase, I love you more than chocolate. Smile,

Preparation...

2011-10-26T20:45:00.001-05:00

While listening to James MacDonald this morning, once again, I am pondering,

This comment I am going to relay is in response to praying over and over and over, without an answer. In Genesis, Isaac married Rebekah at 40 years of age. It took him years, 20 years, for Rebekah to bare him a child. When I think back about my prayers and my impatience, I hope I can be reminded of this thought,

"When waiting and praying for an answer from God, remember, God is working on ME to receive his response, HE is preparing me for his answer."

So, keep on praying. I believe a change in attitude is in order for me. While waiting, how can it be a bad thing, knowing that God is changing me. Once again, God is paving the way. I have so many people I am praying for, there are so many people hurting as I speak. I pray God gives me patience, that God prepares me, that God uses me in whatever way he deems necessary, and that I am PREPARED.

Nothing fabulous happens overnight! It is a slow working process! :)

Surely,

Halloween Party Pizza Dip...

2011-10-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

I posted this recipe on my last Real Estate Postcard, here it is for you bloggers...

Halloween Party Pizza Dip...

4 oz Cream Cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Mix all four ingredients and spread across the bottom of a greased pie plate.
Top with 1 cup pizza sauce.
Sprinkle 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese on top of pizza sauce.
Top with 2 oz pepperoni, 2 T green pepper, 2 T sliced black olives.
Bake at 350 until cheese melts, about 20 minutes.
Serve with garlic toasted bread or store bought toasted rounds.
It is YUM!

Boys will be boys...

2011-10-23T22:05:00.000-05:00

Jason, Boo Boo, brought home a large crate from work. He has been planning on making Layton a fort. Layton calls it a "fork"... Anyway, here goes, we had fun today!

Cutting the doorway...

Cutting the windows...

Now that is a cute face, I don't care who you are, hehe!

I save all for sale signs and past riders...hmmm, wonder where this one came from? :)

Went to the attic, I found the monkey "drink cup" that Lauren brought back from Hawaii... We put crayons in it for him to draw on in the "fork"...

Yes, Boo Boo, fits!...

And Boo Boo, drew him a Pumpkin, American Flag and a rocket!...

Layton loves this "fork"... it will be moved and put on a tree stump in the backyard as soon as we can summon help... that crate is heavy!
Now this is a "memory"...of course, everyone that comes over has to sign their name inside!

My nephew and his bride!

2011-10-22T20:22:00.001-05:00

Lance Loggins Jr. and Ashley Loggins, October 22 2011

Paula Dean...

2011-10-21T18:58:00.001-05:00

My friend and second child, Claire Bear, waited in line for Paul Dean to sign her cookbook!
Michael was with her! I am envious!

Surely Says...Texas Real Estate Update...

2011-10-21T14:35:00.000-05:00

Did you know?

"Texas ranked fourth in entrepreneurial activity (450 per 100,000 adults) in 2009 after Oklahoma, Montana and Arizona."

"Adversity creates the desire for new opportunity".

Thank the Lord for the entreprenurial spirit. We live in a state that produces business owners.

Taken from RECON, http://blog.recenter.tamu.edu/2011/10/reason-eight-texans-entrepreneurial-spirit/