tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21379917021711245532012-02-11T04:14:50.196-07:00Consider the lilies they don’t toil nor spin; Consider the sparrow they don’t plant or sow; but they’re fed by the Master who watches them grow.Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.comBlogger461100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-17417807551460753322009-05-27T21:28:00.018-06:002009-05-27T22:53:19.665-06:00

While after a totally unplanned break away from blogging, I'm back. Thank you to all of you who have checked in to see if all is well-- it is!Where have I been and what have I been up too? A wonderful vacation with family and friends to Spain and Portugal; even spent a day in Tangers and also time on the Rock of Gibraltar. I'll share more details and photos in future posts. After arriving home it

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-68665922480620565932009-01-26T11:25:00.006-07:002009-01-26T14:13:14.681-07:00

Our usual Saturday evening Hockey Night in Canada routine was interrupted this week so we watch a movie in it's place. (Made of Honor, my hubby allowed me to choose.) Here's a quick recipe for the snack we enjoyed together. I only had one avocado in the house so I made of version of this and served it with nacho chips. Very fresh and satisfying! Another recipe from Ina Garten, the Barefoot

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-60875901332415724782009-01-24T12:12:00.004-07:002009-01-24T12:57:15.306-07:00

I've been busy with cleaning up some files on my computer and adding an external hard drive for photos and music etc when I came across this poem I have likely gleaned from someone but don't know from whom or where; but of course I just googled the title and I am now able to add the author's name.Good food for thought!Did Jesus use a modem,At the Sermon on the Mount?Did He ever try a broadcast

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-78849037524103348612009-01-03T10:21:00.010-07:002009-01-03T11:20:06.260-07:00

Although the weather was cold the highways were clear and we were able to travel up to see our families this Christmas. Lots of smiles and laughter; good times. Memories in the making.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-41310408743560787502008-12-25T12:00:00.001-07:002008-12-22T10:59:50.911-07:00

Her head was down, and he could not see her face. In fear, he asked her to name what he could do. She said go outside and tend the fire and hear more water and to remain there until she called him. the animals watched him go, and they watch impassively as Mary sank to the straw.The fire outside burned brightly in the southerly breeze and little trains of ruddy sparks flew off into the dark night.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-5801200518328396972008-12-17T08:22:00.007-07:002008-12-19T07:37:44.515-07:00

Well here it is the finished wreath for this Sunday's advent door. Peace is the theme. As I was making this wreath a news cast of the lastest 3 fallen canadian soldiers was on the television. I could not help but think of their families and all our troops this Christmas season. This world is filled with so much unrest, wars, pain and famine. I'm praying for Peace on Earth, good will to all.Will

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-168309488957265022008-12-05T23:01:00.005-07:002008-12-05T23:23:53.981-07:00

A much loved Aunt; tot ziens Tante Co."She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-56145227720928750162008-12-02T13:55:00.007-07:002008-12-02T14:31:05.558-07:00

Thunder rumbles in the mountain passesAnd lightning rattles the eaves of our houses.Flood waters await us in our avenues.Snow falls upon snow, falls upon snow to avalancheOver unprotected villages.The sky slips low and grey and threatening.We question ourselves.What have we done to so affront nature?We worry God.Are you there? Are you there really?Does the covenant you made with us still hold?

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-60516546252932944532008-11-25T08:13:00.005-07:002008-11-25T08:32:35.390-07:00

Our worship theme at church for advent is the Advent door and I've been asked to make the peace-angel wreath. So I'm looking for some ideas of what materials, colours etc. and how others think this wreath should look like. I have a few ideas but I would love to hear some suggestions from everyone.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-45992951602970190702008-11-11T08:15:00.012-07:002008-11-11T09:39:56.581-07:00

Corrie ten Boom's book The Hiding Place has always been a favorite book of mine. It's the story of how Corrie and her family secreted Jews away from the Nazis. I'm reminded of her story today; and can only think of so many many more stories like hers and her family. Corrie ten Boom's faith and that of her family shines in the bleakest of times. She also has some amazing quotes and profound wisdom

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-6192369240427912762008-11-10T07:17:00.025-07:002008-11-25T14:29:51.992-07:00

After placing and hanging some of the homemade birdseed feeders here and there about the yard I thought I'd show you all the attention they have attracted. The oranges filled with a seed and peanut butter mixture have been a sure hit with the downy woodpeckers and the chickadees. Early mornings and suppertime is a sure time to glance over to a feeder to find them feasting away.The bird seed

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-12425366276637198172008-10-31T08:00:00.008-06:002008-11-02T08:50:53.033-07:00

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith,” Romans 1:17

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-66957336310621525342008-10-27T12:06:00.011-06:002008-11-11T07:57:09.513-07:00

To make easy birdseed wreaths to hang on tree branches or your bird feeder. You will need 2 cups of wild birdseed mixture, ¼-ounce package of unflavored gelatin, 6 tablespoons of water, and an additional 2 tablespoons of cold water. Begin by boiling the 6 tablespoons of water in a microwave oven. In the meantime, pour 2 tablespoons of cold water into a large mixing bowl, and stir in the gelatin.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-47396191476223840642008-10-26T21:00:00.005-06:002008-10-27T16:33:39.545-06:00

It started out as a typical Sunday afternoon stroll, Jake eagar to coax us out of the house, so anxious to get going. It had been awhile since we had walked the trail which bends along with the creek so we decided to check it out. The trail is a narrow one and is best walked single file which means the same for Jake. It was decided he could wander off leash. Much to his delight. Usually he is on

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-62357080204392797222008-10-16T10:06:00.012-06:002008-10-16T12:01:13.617-06:00

Happy Birthday Mick! 50 years ago my hubby was born; not that I was around to take notice then but I did 20+ years ago. We'll be celebrating this weekend with family and friends. You are the 'real chocolate' of my life. I love you Mick!

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-88229948809329013902008-10-13T09:50:00.008-06:002008-10-13T10:58:30.032-06:00

Some of Fernanado Ortega's music to enjoy this Thanksgiving Day.For today I've turned off my playlist to the left, but if you wish to hear the songs simply click on the play button. The first video will play through,click on the play button to begin, once it is finished then the picture slides with additional songs will appear on the bottom. Click on the video picture lower bottom of the slide

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-45870328789906954032008-10-09T11:40:00.013-06:002008-10-09T12:00:36.366-06:00

A holiday favorite in our home,recipe from Ina Garten the Barefoot Contessa.Servings: 6-86 large sweet potatoes1/2 cup orange juice1/2 cup heavy cream1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter, melted1/4 cup light brown sugar1 tsp. ground nutmeg1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon2 tsp. kosher salt1 tsp. black pepperFOR THE TOPPING:3 Tbsp. unsalted butter3 McIntosh apples, peeled, cored and cut into eighths3 Tbsp. light

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-27586585608685695792008-10-08T00:00:00.001-06:002008-10-27T16:24:58.275-06:00

It's a simple thing, yesterday morning I bagged up my weekly recyclable bottles and cans and placed them in the trunk of my car before heading off the work. Shortly after arriving at the office I heard the familiar sound, the clatter of the wheels and the clinking of the glass. Heading outside there he was busy with his daily work of collecting bottles in a grocery cart he had claimed as his own.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-78005589564463794252008-09-25T10:52:00.009-06:002008-09-25T12:56:44.116-06:00

"Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all the living creatures of every kind on the earth." -Genesis 9:16 I have always loved autumn. The colours of fall, the crispness of frosty mornings; chunky sweaters, back to wearing blue jeans. Canadian geese honking in the skies above. The harvest. The crunch of the fallen leaves

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-53755317804587355172008-08-19T10:12:00.012-06:002008-08-19T13:58:45.127-06:00

Yesterday this little blue bird reminded me to take notice of God's presence all around us. Often we are all too busy to notice the daily gifts he sends our way. Today I encourage you to stop and see the sunset, a dew or rain drop, find the beauty in a spider 's web, look for a flower that blooms where it is planted-- they are all there for us. Quiet gifts which speak to our hearts, assuring us

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-1208132934434232192008-08-17T14:19:00.015-06:002008-08-26T08:08:20.059-06:00

Sunday suppers have always been a time when as family we connect with each other. It's by far my most favorite day of the week for me to cook. I've usually do some baking; make a few extra meals, which can serve as weekday lunches or a quick evening dinner. Or often as a gift to a friend.Sunday dinners have a different feel now as Mark returns home bringing Ilona with him. Mick and I look forward

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-82172730594107640772008-08-07T14:36:00.012-06:002008-09-25T12:56:03.358-06:00

It's been a great week in the garden behind the camera lens. A number of special visitors have been flying in and staying awhile. A humming bird has taken much delight in the blue stocks of the delphinium. He's also been enjoying the newly added red of the geraniums, a gift from my sister to help place some more colour in the garden after the hail storm. Thanks Annette, these bold colours

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-56873175602555233942008-07-30T00:00:00.012-06:002008-12-10T04:31:15.824-07:00

Born July 30, 1902 and lives in glory with his Lord. Although Opa has been gone a number of years I miss him and think of him often. I cherish the time we had with him and know he rests in the presence of his Redeemer. Tot ziens Opa!

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-25055343096043552982008-07-29T14:43:00.002-06:002008-12-10T04:31:16.170-07:00

2 weeks after the hail storm a few heads in the garden are starting to appear once again

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-44720479468389144212008-07-28T22:43:00.028-06:002008-12-10T04:31:16.755-07:00

A few years back Mick and I visited the Napa valley. It was great trip full of quiet time, beautiful scenery, visits to vineyards and wineries. The Napa Valley is also know for it's many famous chef's and their restaurants. We stayed in Yountville a quaint, cutesy town. One of the evenings we were there we went to french bistro restaurant called Bistro Jeanty's. Known for it's fine french food.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-67229800444423872442008-07-24T10:00:00.019-06:002008-12-10T04:31:17.102-07:00

Do you ever wonder why some can find it so easy to choose joy in their circumstance and others simply cannot? I've been challenged by this this week. I don't mean to sound so candid, but it is difficult to watch loved ones simply wither their days and life away drowning in their own cesspool of self pity. We all know there are plenty of situations which can bring your spirits down, when stresses

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-49839773532990276152008-07-22T20:47:00.013-06:002008-12-10T04:31:17.321-07:00

Jake keeps wondering what happened to his safe retreat in the basement, aka Mark's room. He keeps scratching at the door wondering where the comfy mattress is. So I took him for an extra long walk tonight in the hopes that would help to lift his spirits. I'm not sure it helped.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-4849570717298046222008-07-20T15:09:00.009-06:002008-12-10T04:31:17.458-07:00

Yes it is official, Mick and I are now empty nesters! Please don't let my salad choice for tonight's dinner allow you to think I've got the blues! I'm so excited for Mark and his new home, he loves it! We spent Friday evening and Saturday helping him to get settled in his brand new place-- it's perfect for him. Don't get me wrong, his smile and charm will dearly be missed around our home; but

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-30084015993069688222008-07-20T14:05:00.012-06:002008-12-10T04:31:17.609-07:00

There are so many delicous summer salads; this is one of my favorites.1/4 cup Blueberry Vinegar ( see recipe below)2T olive oil1/4 tsp salt1/4 tsp course ground pepper4 cups torn mixed greens1 cup fresh blueberries1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese2 T snipped fresh chivesFor the dressing, combine blueberry vinegar, oil, salt and pepper in a jar. Cover and shake

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-68131570991008437572008-07-16T19:48:00.014-06:002008-12-10T04:31:17.993-07:00

I am so glad I shared this morning's post with everyone. So glad I enjoyed; even if only for a day the beautiful specimen of Paeoniaceae; which is the latin name for the family peonies fall into. She shone beautifully; and how I wish we would have had more time together. By now you've noticed I'm speaking in the past tense. Here she is tonight: Our garden, yes all the potted plants too, has been

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-4661444507744460802008-07-16T08:00:00.002-06:002008-12-10T04:31:18.204-07:00

Finally, I've patiently waited for 5 years for this single peony to bloom and it now has. I think it was worth waiting for.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-35953060275996878942008-07-13T10:34:00.008-06:002008-12-10T04:31:18.291-07:00

Gardening under the Calgary' s Chinook arch can be very taxing; this past winter was not kind to the garden. I'm still wondering what happened to the Shasta daisies and the flax-- winter kill-- who would have ever thought, but indeed they are no where in sight. The peonies are just beginning to blossom; the majority of faces still hidden within tightly held buds. By far the feature in our garden

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-5125048781870337002008-07-12T08:00:00.019-06:002008-12-10T04:31:18.537-07:00

When yanking out anemone flowers self sown in my garden this week I thought of this excerpt from a book I'd read:What are the lilles of the field mentioned in the Bible? Experts believe that this is the collective term for many of the wildflowers that grow in Israel. Although the narcissus the chrysanthemum and the daisy are contenders for being included in this category, it is the crown anemone

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-26469836826436898842008-07-11T14:03:00.008-06:002008-12-10T04:31:18.705-07:00

Dear God,More meatballs, less spaghetti, please.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-21521949398754418902008-07-10T11:11:00.018-06:002008-12-10T04:31:19.204-07:00

It's stampede time here in Calgary, which means my brother-in-law comes to town to show his belgian horses. It's an exciting time for Bill as he competes for the ultimate prize in a variety of different classes. He had a tremendous showing this year as you can see by all the ribbons he collected. A highlight were the two entries into the 6 horse hitch; one which was an entire team of mares. The

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-10913440477117265812008-07-06T12:40:00.010-06:002008-12-10T04:31:19.571-07:00

One of my most favorite things in the garden is the rhubarb plant. The large leaves of the plants have so much character, deep red veins, transparent leaves which allows the light to shine through them. I love the way a large plant can soften the harsh corners of garden structures. An added bonus is the beautifully coloured red stalks which can be used in so many ways. Fruit crips, cobblers and

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-72280643205192610562008-07-03T16:50:00.012-06:002008-07-12T09:19:59.575-06:00

Hey folks, I've tested the comments and guess what,they work! I can't believe over 350 hits and not one little chirp back. Oh well, you must all be enjoying the wonderful weather. I'm headed back to the garden too!

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-26788472920593696442008-07-02T20:36:00.017-06:002008-12-10T04:31:19.686-07:00

Acceptance Be a Blessing Count my Blessings Do unto others Express Thanks Forgive Grace Hug I after others Jesus loves me Keep Confidences Laughter Mark & Mick Nuture Open Minded Pray Everyday Quietly Serve Rejoice Always Seek First His Kingdom Tell the Story Understand Value Wait Patiently Xeriscape Yearn for Peace Zealously live life.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-69670537638408911372008-07-02T02:00:00.001-06:002008-12-10T04:31:19.815-07:00

No matter what situations life throws at you...No matter how long and treacherous your journey may seem...Remember, there is a light at the end of the tunnel!

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-11389208330771744422008-07-01T13:00:00.001-06:002008-07-01T19:35:16.055-06:00

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-10314408544770787312008-06-30T16:28:00.001-06:002008-12-10T04:31:20.071-07:00

... yes even the lobelia eating gopher.

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-29665650960223035192008-06-29T13:49:00.001-06:002008-07-12T09:01:31.586-06:00

I love making recipes from Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa. Here's a great summertime salad recipe of hers which is alittle different than the usual table fare. So easy to make, no cooking required. Enjoy, we are tonight!Curried Couscous1 1/2 cups couscous1 tablespoon unsalted butter1 1/2 cups boiling water1/4 cup plain yogurt1/4 cup good olive oil1 teaspoon white wine vinegar1 teaspoon curry

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-30339161286867079602008-06-23T20:18:00.004-06:002008-12-10T04:31:20.302-07:00

Raindrops as found around the yard

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-78191050151499268112008-06-19T09:08:00.001-06:002008-12-10T04:31:20.450-07:00

Life is a journey, enjoy the ride !Life is but a stopping place,A pause in what`s to be,A resting place along the road,to sweet eternity.We all have different journeys,Different paths along the way,We all were meant to learn some things,but never meant to stay...Our destination is a place,Far greater than we know.For some the journey`s quicker,For some the journey`s slow.And when the journey

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-25464881946378706412008-06-15T13:42:00.002-06:002008-12-10T04:31:20.660-07:00

Black and white with a touch of rustThese are the colours of the one I trustWho's always there no matter whatTo lift me up when I'm in a rutHe cannot speak, what does it matter?Who wants to listen to idle chatter?With a woof, a whimper,Sometimes a snort,He makes me laugh, when my temper's shortReady to play at any time,When the going's tough,Up into my lap he'll climb,To lick my troubles off my

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2137991702171124553.post-7433099266129801052008-06-13T19:00:00.002-06:002008-12-10T04:31:24.035-07:00

American goldfinches are daily visitors to our garden; they especially enjoy the cool water of the pond’s cascade. Slowly they back their undersides into the stream and flutter their golden wings showering their small forms in its coolness. It is a marvel to watch their busyness from feeder to feeder their acrobatic form competes for the paramount roost. They rest a short time and then perform

Marlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02679627218190332670noreply@blogger.com0