Strawberry Ice Recipe

Strawberries are the angels of the earth,
innocent and sweet

with green leafy wings reaching heavenward.

Terri Guillemets

My strawberry season is coming to an end.  We have made strawberry jam and strawberry ice.  The season is ending too soon, and there is definitely not enough strawberry ice.  I have become addicted to this delicious, easy-to-make delicacy.  I call it a delicacy because I'm not sure if store bought strawberries will produce the same delightful taste.

Since I have several friends and family members who didn't see the Strawberry Ice recipe in my last post (okay be nice), I am reposting it.  I have told me that this is probably the best recipe I have come upon in a long time.

Strawberry Ice

1 cup hot water
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 cups sliced strawberries, plus additional berries for garnish

Mix hot water, sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until sugar dissolves. Blend 3 cups strawberries in processor or blender until smooth. Add sugar syrup and blend until combined. Pour mixture into 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Freeze for about 25 minutes or until icy around edges. Using fork, pull icy portions into middle of pan. Repeat this step every 20 minutes until all the liquid is frozen into flaky, loose crystals. Cover and freeze. When ready to serve, use fork again to scrape crystals into bowls and garnish with berries. Serves about 6.

Money Making Tip

If you are crafty and/or artistic, how about making some money from your hobby without leaving the comfort of your home?  Etsy.com is a wonderful website.  I have suggested this website to many talented friends in the past.  I just listed beautiful log cabin birdhouse that my husband has sold for years.  Click on the link below to find details of this unique handcrafted birdhouse.  I do think we need to come up with a better "shop" name.

Old Friends

“Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them,

but you know they are always there”

Author Unknown

There is something to be said about old friends. The one that, even if you haven’t seen each other in eons, you can pick up the conversation like you were never separated. Talking for hours, laughing, crying, reminiscing and making new memories. The type of friend that wouldn’t be surprised if you called in the middle of the night crying, even though you haven’t talked to them in ten years. They understand. They have been a part of your life for so many years that they know who you are deep down inside. They know your joys and sorrows, maybe not for the past year, but for a lifetime.

I have a handful of friends that I can call my true friends. There is a bond between us that time will not break. Some are from high school, a couple from college, and one that is my lifetime friend – we met across the fence when we were 3 or 4. They have stood by my side, attended life events – graduations, weddings, christenings, and, yes, deaths and funerals. I would be there in a minute for them, and, I know, they would do the same for me. We are like fine wine that gets better as it ages, even if it is out of sight, only to be savored after years of silence.

You know who you are. I love you. You are unique, each different from the other. From you, I have gained strength, love, and confidence (clothes, concert tickets, and dill)– each bringing a different combination of all. I am blessed to call you my friend.

Aunt Janet’s Famous Sayings

“It is very important to keep in touch with / see / talk to your girlfriends.” I’ve tried to pass this down to my nieces, because I do feel that women bless each other. Face it – you can’t talk to a guy like you can a girlfriend. They are on a different plane than we are. Women understand women. Can you ask a guy if he thinks you’re going through menopause because you can’t remember anything? Will a guy give you his honest opinion about your new haircut? No, but a girlfriend would, and she would help you decide what style would bring out your best features. A friend would even tell you that she didn’t think it would be wise to foster children because she knows me. When I love, I love with my whole heart, and when the love is taken away, my heart breaks and I feel the full strength of the loss and sorrow. I am one of those people who does not try to stop feeling, and, at times, the feeling is too deep.

A couple of times, I had several people question the strength of an old friendship after years of separation. All I can say is that, once a friend and I bond, the bond lasts. So, my best friend in high school is still one of my best friends. My friend across the fence is still my oldest and dearest friend. It’s not that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Women are so busy taking care of others that they forget to take care of themselves, which sometimes means picking up the phone because they know once they are on the phone with their cherished friend, they will never get off, and dinner has to be made, the laundry done, you need to go grocery shopping… They are on our mind, in our heart, and included in our prayers always.

True friends reconnect. I’ve gone as far as calling my college friend’s ex-husband to get her phone number – she had changed it when they divorced. I found his workplace because I knew he was a principal in a certain area.  I poked a friend’s brother on facebook, just so I could get her attention. You know, girls in the house, mom doesn’t get the message, so never returns phone calls. Hehe I’m sending a friend from work a retirement card, even though she retired months ago. Hey - it’s the thought that counts. And I found out two other friends are retiring because I saw them going into a meeting for imminent retirees. (You know who you are because I don’t send my blog link to you since you asked me not to. And I know you still love me. I better be invited to your retirement party weeks in advance!)

To my nieces and younger woman – friends are so important. They keep you grounded. You can laugh and cry with them. They know your weaknesses and secrets. Cherish them.

Now, let’s see how many of my friends leave a comment. I’ll guess none. They are all so busy!

Grandpa's Stories (& Quotes)

The 27th anniversary of my dad’s death just passed, and he has been on my mind. My cousin passed away during the summer, and I see his wife’s grief. When someone died, my dad would say:

“Live for the living, not for the dead.”

My dad lost his first wife when his youngest child, my sister chosen by God, was only about 5. He talked with experience, and I wish I could reach out and help her. Someone once told me that, even though we may be separated from our loved ones for years, when we get to heaven, in heaven time, we are only separated for the blink of an eye. I miss you dad, but I know I’ll see you soon – maybe in 50 years.

Money Making Tip

I’m asking your opinion with this one. My friend is in a belly dancing group. They perform at many events. Do you think that a belly dancing class, along with a jewelry show, would fly?

She suggested it, and I think just maybe, as long as I don’t have to belly dance. Okay, I have high frequency hearing loss, and cannot keep a beat for the life of me. I would stick out like a sore thumb, or look like a jester or rodeo clown. Get the picture? It would be hilarious, but I don’t think so. So, to my friends and family, it’s not that I can’t sing. I can’t hear to be able to sing. There. I told you guys, after you’ve made fun of me for years.

Money Savings

Specials at thrift stores – I went to a thrift store yesterday after being told that they were having a $5 bag sale. I filled the bag with Lee Jeans, a Coldwater Creek top, a Liz Claiborne jacket, and about 8 other items. For $5!

One thing to keep in mind is that these are donated clothes. Look for clothes that are not worn, do not have stains, and fit. About half of the items I bought were brand new, a couple with the tags still on. I checked each item to make sure that there were no obvious stains or flaws, but forgot to check the size on a pair of jeans. Their tag said 10. The inside tag said 14. You will see these jeans posted on ebay soon.

This is a great way to save money, but keep in mind dry cleaning costs. Is the jacket really worth $5 if it costs $10 to have it dry cleaned? The jacket I bought was in such good shape that I feel it was worth the small investment.

Specials aren’t usually advertised in newspapers. So, if you want a bargain at a thrift store, you usually have to watch their windows for “sale” signs. Also, some thrift stores do not carry what I would call high quality items. Shop around until you find one that does. The one I found carries mostly designer clothes at unbelievable low prices.

Lastly, remember to always wash your "new" clothes.  You never know who was in them last.

Cherish your friendships,
Aunt Janet

Blessings in Small Packages

But as for you, be strong and do not give up,

for your work will be rewarded.

2 Chronicles 15:7

Ever stop and shout at the top of your lungs: "Stop the world and let me off.  I've had enough.  Enough, enough, ENOUGH!  Please make it all go away!" Then I usually pause and quietly ask: "Hi, remember me?  I try so hard.  Help me, please!"

Okay, I've had one of the decades.  You know, the kind that everything and anything goes wrong.  I've tried to keep a cheerful spirit, I've tried to be kind and turn the other cheek, I've gave to others, without them realizing or acknowledging it, and I've prayed so hard, asking, and then pleading for this to end.  I've:

• even tried old wife's tails  (burying St. Joseph, a couple of times for good measure, being prepared "just in cause I got into an accident" or something doesn't go according to plan), 
• contemplated superstitions (Did I break a mirror?  Since I rescued a black cat living in the building's basement, are they possessed?  Did anyone die in the buildings, and now that person haunts them?  I walked under a ladder millions of times while we were working on them - is that why I'm having bad luck?),
• and even looked into my spirituality (Did I hurt someone and not know it?  Is it because I don't go to church every week?  Was there someone in need that I did not take care of?  Did I do something wrong and unchristian like?).

Well, in my journey to find answers, I did discover a couple of things.  The person that I may have not taken care of is myself.  I need to take time to enjoy the small things in life, and be gracious for the many good things that happen to me.  For example, this week I finally went into our piggy bank, and, even though there is negative in the bank, God keeps sending me money for daily living, so I'm never without what I truly need.  First the piggy bank - it bought gas to get me to work this week, and food so I could eat this week.  I've had a lot of friends buy jewelry, food, and kitchen gadgets from my businesses this week, so more money will be coming in shortly.  So, He has taken care of my needs this week.

I was getting tired of turning the other cheek.  Then I found the following thought -  "Why must we turn the other cheek? Why must we give our cloak to one who’s already stolen our coat? Maybe it is because we know that nothing can really harm us in the end. Sure, a slap on the cheek may hurt, but it would soon heal, if we believe and allow it to. Sure, we may have lost our coat and our cloak. But through the laws of the universe and the goodness of God, we shall recover whatever it is we may have lost… and much more."  Thanks Jocelyn Soriano, author of "I Take Off the Mask Blog".

Lastly, I learned that God sends family and friends when it seems intolerable.  Family that is there when you can't stop the tears, friends with like problems to complain with, friends who will treat you to a movie because you don't have any money, friends that will have a home show for you to help make money, and family and friends that will call just to see how you are doing.  All this in just one week.  I am truly blessed with giving and caring family and friends, and God is awesome.  He truly does take care of me!

Money Savings Tip

Have an emergency fund of $1000.00.  After reading numerous books and talking to many financial consultants, I've discovered how important this is.  Especially after this week.  Money ran out because a large check I received bounced nine days after I deposited it.  Which leads to my second tip...

After talking to the bank, I discovered that a deposited check could take up to two weeks to clear or be returned for insufficient funds.  So, even though you deposited the check at the beginning of the week, the money may not be in your account for two weeks.  If you keep this in mind, you will not bounce any checks that you write.  And, if you have an emergency fund, you will be prepared in case this ever does happen.

You may say, like me, I don't have $1000 to put in an emergency fund.  I was told to save half of what is left over from your living expenses, and put it into an emergency fund until I have the $1000.  Then, only touch this fund when emergencies arise - like a received check bouncing, a car breaking down, a washer on the fritz, etc.  A very valuable lesson.  I wish I learned it a couple of months ago.

Money Making Tips

Spread the word about your business.  In my case, I started to hand out catalogs, email out specials, and just talk to people about my situation.  Even though I still have major financial problems, the outpouring of support and orders really helps.  Thanks!  If you are interested in buying one of the products I sell (jewelry, tasty foods, or kitchen gadgets), please email me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net.

One request - If you do your Christmas shopping through the internet, please start at my blog, and click away.  I get a small percentage of whatever sells.  I will be updating my business links this weekend.  So, you'll be able to shop, directly from my site, at Sears, Kmart, Kohls, Barnes and Nobles, and many more.  In appreciation for your help, I thank you!  No amount is too small to help a friend in need.

I am grateful,
Aunt Janet

Time of Harvest

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together.

For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad.

Edwin Way Teale

I went into the garden today.  With the brisk wind at my face, and two sweatshirts keeping me warm, I gathered the end of the harvest.  The frost might come tonight.

It's a time of harvesting the fruits of your labor, of preserving the fruits of your harvest, of readying oneself for the cold winter months.  In preparation, I have taken this week off - to harvest, preserve, slow down, and enjoy the bounty of His Goodness.

I picked every vegetable that would be harmed by the frost.  As the leaves fell around me, I remember.  Autumn brings a sense of warming to my spirit.  To me, it brings back memories of falling in love.

I found a quote by von fiona.  "The summer months are ideal for flirting, but the time for falling in love has only just begun."  It's a time for cuddling, keeping warm, holding hands while walking in the midst of the autumn color, or cocooning indoors talking and learning about each other.  The cooling temperature draws us closer together for warmth, not just of the body, but of the emotions. 

Summer flirts bring small jolts of happiness felt in the depths of your being.  Autumn loves bring long waves of warming of your heart.

I love autumn with all its majestic color.  It's a time for harvesting, preserving, enjoying the warmth of the home, and falling in love!

Gardening

Today, I picked the last of the harvest - a few cucumbers and peppers, all tomatoes, red and green, and the rest of the beans.  For drying, I cut down my herbs that were planted in the garden, and brought in the herb pots for winter flavoring.

I will wrap the green tomatoes in newspaper, put them in a paper bag, and place the bag in a cool place, where they can ripen slowly.

This week, I will pull up all the dead plants, either put them in the compost pile or burn them, and  rack up the ground.  I'll also check on my cold weather plants to see if they are ready for picking.  And I'll plant the mums I haven't gotten around to plant yet.

Money Making Tip

At the end of this week, two friends and I are having a "Celebrate Fall" sale at our township hall.  We will be selling our direct sales products to whoever would like to attend.  I feel that time as gone by too quickly, and I am behind in my preparations.  The hall is rented, some products have been ordered, the ad has been placed in the local papers, and the invitations are printed.  I need to pass out the invitations, send out emails, and go to local businesses to ask them if I can post a sign.  I'm also thinking about what I should do for outside signs, and where I should place them.  Even though I am starting this vacation week feeling overwhelmed, I know that everything will fall into place, and we will make contacts and sales. 

If you have a home business, think of getting together with a couple more direct sales friends and putting together a holiday sale.  This is a way to make extra money for the holidays, and hopefully expand your clientele.  If anything, you will have loads of fun with your friends.

By the way, if you live anywhere near Braidwood, Illinois, and you would like to hear more about this event, please email me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net.  The companies that will be represented are:  Mary Kay (my party), and my 3 businesses (tasty foods, cool kitchen gadgets, and beautiful jewelry).  You know I'm not allowed to say it in my blog. 

Here is a site that talks about the beautiful jewelry - Click Here!  If you'd like to know about the tasty food, become my friend on Facebook - Click Here!  This company posts on my page all the time.  As for my kichen gadgets, you'll just have to think about that one.  If you would like a catalog, or to place an order, please email me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net.

Free Stuff

Free Sample of Kelloggs(r) Special K cereal
Free sample of Honey Nut Cheerios(r)
Free Sample of Nestle Abuelita Granulado

Preserving the Harvest,
Aunt Janet

Waiting, and Waiting, and Still Waiting

Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.

Author Unknown

A couple of weeks ago, I got tired of waiting. I am usually a very patient person, but waiting for someone to respond was wasting time and money. So, I started to be a nice pest until I got results. I didn't care if it was a positive or negative result. I just needed to know so I could pursue different avenues. So, I guess I stopped passively waiting.

In today's age, with everyone always on the go, we often let things go. We forget to return a call, to give a jingle just say hello, to send a birthday card, or to drop off that dish. We are just too busy. Yet, others are waiting for us, and sometimes, they are waiting, and waiting, and still waiting. At first, they may become irritated. After a while, they either forget about you, become indifferent to you, or learn patience, and keep themselves busy until you finally arrive.

What kind of friend are you? Remember, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Aunt Janet's Famous Sayings

When someone thinks they need patience, I always say "Pray for endurance, not patience. If you pray for patience, God will give you more to be patient for so you learn how to be patient."

Easy Recipe

Our family celebrates many birthdays in the heat of the summer. One cool (no baking) and easy cake to make is:

Twinkie Toffee Treat

1 box Hostess Twinkies
2 prepared packages of pudding (I usually use vanilla, but like chocolate as well!)
1 large tub of whipped topping
6 Heath candy bars

Crush Heath candy bars in a sturdy plastic bag. Cut Twinkies lengthwise and line bottom of glass pan with Twinkies, creme side up. Add a layer of pudding. Layer with remaining Twinkies, creme side down. Top with the whipped topping. Sprinkle with the crushed candies. Serve immediately and enjoy!/p>

Money Making Tip

My new blog, Aunt Janet's Attic, is up and running! Right now, I have discounted scrapbooking items. I will keep adding to it, and not only scrapbooking items. I have books, antiques, jewelry (not from my business), crafts, clothing, DVD's, and almost anything you will find at a tag sale. Please take a minute to browse now and again. If nothing catches your fancy today, you may find something you can't live without tomorrow. hehe

If you would like to know how I created this blog, please email me, and I will let you know. It was easy once I found a site that would let me keep inventory. You could start your own store!

Off to tag,
Aunt Janet

I Did It!

It almost feels like make-believe. My first thought was, 'I did it! I finally did it!' I knew I could, but I finally did it.

Phil Mickelson

Today I feel a sense of accomplishment. I figured out something that I've been toying with for a couple of months. It's not perfect, but it's a start, and I did it!

I personally prefer to feel the rush of accomplishment when I reach that goal, solve that problem, or get past that obstacle. Some prefer the pat on the back, the standing ovation, and the acknowledgment from colleagues. It's a personal preference, but it feels so good when you finally get something.

Just remember, if no one is around, do a jig, give a holler, and pat yourself on the back. Be proud - you did it!

Money Making Tip

Okay, here is what I did. I am so excited. I created my own on-line store! It's called Aunt Janet's Attic. It's my on-line Tag Sale. Right now, I've posted never used scrapbooking items. You purchase the items right from the sight, and you can decide whether you want to pick it up or have it delivered. It will even calculate the shipping. You pay for the items through Paypal. Please take a minute to check out my items. Quantities are very limited (it's a tag sale), but it will let you know if it is out of stock. Just click on the Aunt Janet's Attic Sign above, and it will take you right to the site. I will put a link under My Ways to Make Money for future Blogs.

I'm going to test this site for 6 months. If I make money on it, it will continue. I have hope! If you like it, or see items that you think a friend would like, please tell them about my new site. Thanks!

Just keep trying,
Aunt Janet

Don't Give Up

When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached,

don't adjust the goals,

adjust the action steps.

Confucius

Are you having a difficult time achieving your goals? Are things just not working? Are you ready to give up?

Life is difficult. Sometime, it just plain sucks! Everything we have worked so hard for seems out of our reach, unattainable, and even unrealistic. It's so close, you can touch it, but so far away, you can't see it.

Most dreams help, improve, or excel some aspect in life. They require hard work and perseverance. You gave that - you strived and you sacrificed for that goal. You did that!

I believe that if God let you come this far, there's a reason. He's not going to let you go when you are just a foot from the finish line, and say that's it, it's over. He brought you this far, and believe me, He's going to push you over that line. Somehow, He will give you the idea, the strength, and maybe the motivation, to cross and declare victory!

Money Making Tips

Sell things on your blog. I have some brand new scrapbooking items that I would like to sell. This weekend, I am going to create a page to sell these items at a great discount! Check back soon!

Keep pushin' on,
Aunt Janet

Believe in Miracles

Out of difficulties grow miracles.

Jean De La Bruyere

Think about it. Difficulties are what make you grow. When solutions come, it's relief, a load off your shoulders - a miracle. It's when what you think is impossible happens.

Searching for answers, I started looking at the miracles in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. The website Hebrew for Christians talked about the similarities of miracles in the Old Testament and New Testament. One that struck me is:

"... an impoverished widow had no means to pay a debt owed by her late husband, and a creditor was threatening to take her two sons as slaves in lieu of her payment
of the debt. She appealed to the prophet Elisha, who told her to borrow empty vessels from all her neighbors, to close the doors of her home, and to pour oil into them from the one remaining cruse of oil that she had. She had faith in the prophet, and the oil miraculously flowed from the original cruse until all the borrowed vessels were full. Elisha instructed her to sell enough of the oil to pay the debt, and to live off the supply of remaining oil...

(God's prophet is one) who brings abundance to those who have faith in Him (God) ... The miracle of the oil is similar to the miracle of the loaves of bread, (in the New Testament)..."

God gives us miracles. He is the God of Blessings. He provides beyond what we can imagine. Sometimes, we just need to look around, and give thanks for the small miracles, and have faith. The big ones are right around the corner. I am waiting for my miracle for I know that it will be here soon.

Recipe

It seems that I am asked to make this recipe for every big party in my family. I never like sauerkraut - it was always too sour for me. This recipe is more sweet sour, and I can't stop eating it.

Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut

2 cans Bavarian Style Kraut
2 cans Water
1/2 medium head shredded Cabbage (I use a whole head)
1/4 - 1/3 cup Brown Sugar (to taste)
1/2 lb. Bacon, fried, drained, and crumbled.
1 medium Onion, sauteed in 2 Tbs Butter, and then mixed with 2 Tbs. Flour
2 lbs. good Polish Sausage, cooked, cut in pieces (I use fresh, not smoked)

Combine all above ingredients in crock pot. Cook for 6-8 hours until cabbage is tender. The recipe says to add the sausage in the last 1/2 hour, but I like adding it right away so that all the juices mingle.

Money Making Tip

My family had a garage sale. Since my garden has been invaded by oregano, candy mint, lemon balm, chives, day lilies, irises, and hostas, as I've suggested in previous posts, I decided to try to sell them.

About a week before the sale, I dug up the mints and chives and put them in small pots that I had collected from plants that I had bought over the years. I kept them well watered so the plants could root in the pots. With the lilies, irises, and hostas, I dug them up the day before and broke them up into individual plants, and put all the bare roots in baskets. One thing - you have to make sure that there is a root on the plant or it will not take.

I put homemade tags in each pot, and made signs for the day lilies, hostas, and irises listing the price per plant. I priced them from 50 cents a pot to $1 for a hosta. To my surprise, I sold most of them and made $35 on these plants.

I am so excited that I'm thinking of having a plant sale. The one thing that I will do different is pot the plants a couple weeks in advance so that have enough time to root, and look healthy.

Something invading your garden? Why not make some money? Anyone selling different varieties of hostas? I started a hosta collection. hehe

Aunt Janet's Famous Sayings

When my nieces were in there late teens, and all grown up, I could tell that they were getting annoyed by the opinions I offered. So, now, when someone says something about my lecturing, I say:

"I stopped lecturing a long time ago."

It's true. I only offer my opinion if asked, or if I ask their permission first. Sometimes, I really have to bite my tongue, and change the subject. One nice thing did happen - my oldest niece told me, with a distraught face and sad eyes, "You can still lecture me."

Believe and it will happen,
Aunt Janet

Why Worry?

Worry is a misuse of imagination.

Dan Zadra

So many times we worry about things that don't really matter. We worry about our bills, our health, our children (or, in my case, lack of them). What good does the worry do? None. Does anything postive happen from worrying? No. So, why do we spend our precious time worrying?

I have to admit that I am a worrier. I worry about if I said the right or wrong thing to someone. I worry about not having the money to pay my bills. I worry about my health issues. Does it help any? No, it just creates more stress and sleepless nights. And I will get that migraine.

Lately, I've been trying to just be still, think of something else, or do something to take care of myself. It may be as simple as me repeating "God is in control", until the anxiety passes. I may read a book. I'm a romance novel lover, and they always get my mind off my problems. Or I may treat myself to an ice cream cone, or a plant for my garden. Remember, no matter how bad it is, we all deserve treats once in a while. Just be practical.

I once organized a concert night with my friends. I could get really good tickets to a band I love - REO Speedwagon. These friends and I have been to their concerts before, and I thought it would be nice to remanince about our high school days.

I had a couple of friends comment "How can you afford this?" Well, in reality I couldn't, and I started to feel guilty. Then, I had another person say "Good for you! You're finally doing something for yourself. Your money problems aren't going to go away overnight. The buildings may not sell for years. But, for gosh sake, you have to do something to treat yourself once in a while."

Boy, did I need to hear that! It is so true - we can go through life worrying, but it gets us nowhere. It can even cause more problems. You've heard "Stress is a killer." Well, from my own experience, stress does weigh down on your body - migraines, backaches, stomach problems, etc. As long as you are practical, don't go overboard, and enjoy yourself, once in a while, you do have to treat yourself.

So, have you treated yourself lately? Remember - it doesn't have to cost much, it can even be free. It's just has to be fun for you.

Go ahead - treat yourself today!

Money Making Tip

I included a poll on this blog. Do you shop on-line? I must confess that, for the past couple of years, I've done most of my Christmas shopping on-line. It saves time and money.

Why I'm asking you is this: If you shop on-line, please use my links. I make money everytime someone makes a purchase. If there's a store that you regularly shop at, and I don't have it listed, please post it as a comment, or e-mail me. I will try to get their link so you can shop directly from my blog. (Thanks to the person who shopped from Kohl's! I made $4 on your purchase.)

If you are thinking of blogging, this is a great way to make extra money. Share how your readers can help you by doing something many already do - shop on-line.

Free Stuff

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Life is a Journey

They say "life is a journey." But you know what they don't say? It's a crazy, bewildering, mysterious journey ... The journey is your very own. Everywhere you wander, you belong. And everyone who cares about you wants to come along.

Hallmark Cards

While I was searching for an e-card for a friend, I found this and fell in love with it. It is so true - life is a journey. It's a journey that doesn't always take us where we think it will. It takes us where we are suppose to be.

At times, it doesn't feel like we are on the right road. We feel lost, confused, and bewildered. Why me? Where am I going? But, when we look back and contemplate the tough roads we have traveled, the path becomes clear and the why is answered. Life is a journey. Live it to the fullest!

Free Stuff

Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Sample

Cream of Wheat sample - Click here then click on Try Cream of Wheat FREE on the bottom of the right side.

Money Savings Tip

Want to keep your lettuce fresh? Wash your lettuce and remove any damaged leaves, and dry it thoroughly. Wrap the lettuce in paper towel, and place in a plastic bag or storage container. Put in refrigerator, preferably the crisper drawer. Replace the paper towel any time it gets really wet.

Time Savings Tip

CUT DOWN ON JUNK MAIL.Visit the Direct Marketing Association Web site and ask them to remove you from direct mail lists you don't wish to be on: http://www.the-dma.org/consumers/offmailinglist.html.

Recipe

This is one of my family's favorite cookies. My sister makes them during the holidays, and everyone eats at least one (or two or three).

Seven Layer Bars

1/2 cup butter
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups butterscotch chips
1 cup flaked coconut
1 cup salted peanuts
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

Melt the butter or margarine in a saucepan. Mix with the graham cracker crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan. Layer the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, and peanuts over the graham cracker crust. Pour the condensed milk over the layers.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool. Cut into bars.

Who Are You?

I subscribe to SiteMeter, a service that tells me how many people visited my blog, what they looked at, and how far away they live. It does not give me e-mail addresses or other personal information. Being the curious one, I wonder who you are, especially the ones that visit my site often.

So, every so often, I will ask who someone is by referring to where they live. If you respond, by e-mailing me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net, I will send you a free sample of the tasty food that I sell. Please include your name and address in the e-mail. I will not post any of your personal information - name or address.

Okay - My First Who Are You? You live about 470 miles away from the Chicago area - I think somewhere in Kansas - the upper or middle East side. Who are you? I'd love to find out.

Until our paths meet again,

Aunt Janet

Do What You Love

There can be no other occupation like gardening in which, if you were to creep up behind someone at their work, you would find them smiling.

~Mirabel Osler

I love the beginning of Spring when it's warm enough to get my fingers in the soil, to cut away the old, and plant the new. I am a gardener. I lose myself in the work, in the planning, preparing, planting, and harvesting of my little plot of ground. My husband says "If there's a empty piece of earth, Janet will find a way to plant something." It is my passion.

Too many of us neglect our passions. We spend too much time trying to please others, to do as they say, as they desire for our lives.

Most of us are not encouraged to seek our passion. We are taught to go the safe route, to blend in with the norm, and to forget ourselves.

My life was like that. I choose a major in school to please others. I got a job, found a niche, and have worked in my present occupation for the last twenty years. But it's not my passion.

My advice to the young - Do what you love. Only you can determine which path to follow. Do you follow the one others have set for you, or do you follow your passion? They say: Do something you love, and the money will come. Or do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life.

My advice to the elder - You can always change your occupation, and do what you love. Go part time to school or start your business small, working part time at it until it can support you financially at a level in which you are accustomed. But never, ever, think you are too old to grab a hold of that dream and fly!

Someday, hopefully soon, my dream to have a working garden will happen and I will be smiling. I just wish I figured this out sooner, but, for now, I pour through gardening books, work with the soil, and learn as much as I can about my love.

Gardening

Perennials multiply. Some quicker than others. As I clear my flower beds, and vegetable garden, I see what needs to be thinned and transplanted. I need to break up my irises, hostas, and day lilies. I need to pull up the candy mint that took over the strawberry patch. The strawberries have grown beyond their imaginary boundaries. I need to dig up horseradish before it takes over, or my husband hits it with the rototiller (if we get ours fixed).

Spring is a time for sharing, for giving of one's garden to another. By doing this, if my plants die, I will always find these plants in someone else's garden, ready to be given back to me. So, I will ask "Who wants strawberries, horseradish, candy mint, or any of my other perennials that have taken over?"

Money Making Tip

Another way to share is to sell your plants at a garage sale, or, if you have an overabundance of many plants, advertise in the classifieds or have a plant sale.

Recipe

Aunt Janet's Stew

1 lb. stew meat, cut in bite size pieces
5 potatoes, cubed
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 carrots, sliced
1 large onion, chopped coarsely
1 garlic clove, minced
16 oz. can of tomatoes, undrained and chopped
3 beef bouillon cubes
1 Tbs. of Italian Seasoning, or 1-1/2 tsp. basil and 1-1/2 tsp. oregano
1/8 tsp. pepper

Put all the above in crock pot, and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or high for 5-6 hours.

Flowers and Hope

Where flowers bloom so does hope.

Lady Bird Johnson

Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Switzerland Artist: Becky Haldorson
The robins are singing, the plants are peaking through, and the crocuses have bloomed. Behold, spring is in the air.

I always feel uplifted when I go to the garden. To me, removing the dead remininces of the last year is saying goodbye to what was yesterday. Today is coming alive, and tomorrow there will be flowers. It gives me hope and promise that beauty is yet to come.

I cleansed myself yesterday. Today I played in my garden with hope. My problems may be overwhelming at times, but the beauty that God has bestowed on us is wonderous. He is there. Like a flower that starts as a small plant, growing until it bursts with its beauty, I am growing through my experiences and know that someday His plan for my life will bloom, with all of the beauty He intends for me.

Money Making Tips

My talented friend displays her pictures on the Artist Rising website. The above picture is an example of her artistry. She makes a commission on each photograph they sell. To view her other photographs, please go to this Artist Rising link.

If you would like to find out more about displaying and selling your photographs on line, go to Artist Rising

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

Absence is to love what wind is to fire;

it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.

Comte DeBussy-Rabutin

At times in our life, our loved ones are absent. We may miss them terribly, or be happy for the free alone time. Eventually, if it is truly love, our hearts will long for their presence.

Due to war and economics, many loves are separated, standing up for our nation or trying to make ends meet. May God watch over those that are separated from their loved ones. Keep them safe, and bring them home swiftly. Rekindle the love in all.

Easy Recipe
Italian Tomato Soup

1 can diced tomatoes with Italian seasonings
Water, to taste

Cook on medium until thoroughly heated. Mash tomatoes with a potato masher. Add water to taste. Heat again until hot enough to eat!

This easy tomato soup recipe is sooo good with grilled cheeses, and so easy to make. It is very tasty, and can be easily modified to include vegetables or noodles of your choice.

Money Making

Sell what you do not need. Many of the items we buy are left unused, collecting dust and adding to the clutter. If money is short, even items we like can be replaced at a later time. In the cold weather, when it is not feasible to have a garage sale, you can sell your items on-line.

I know I have mentioned this before but Ebay is really a great place to sell items. There is a small charge for listing, and a charge when you sell. Ebay will keep track of your bids, and email you when an item sells. I've been selling many of my unused or "can replace" items on Ebay. Please feel free to browse my items for sale on Ebay anytime by clicking on Ebay under My Ways to Make Money. I list items every week, relisting items that didn't sell and listing new items.

There are other free sites to advertise like Craig's List. With this site, you can list an item for a week for free. If an item sells, the buyer will contact you. After a week, you need to relist it. The one thing I found cumbersome is that you need to upload the pictures every time you relist, but it does save your listing's wording. If anyone knows how to get it to save the pictures, please let me know.

If you have a home business, you can sell off your inventory at a discount to get some quick cash. Right now, I am in need of cash to pay numerous bills. I have three home businesses, and will be sending out emails to all my customers. I will sell my display jewelry and extra kitchen gadgets at a greatly reduced price. Also, I will be offering a discount on my tasty food item business. If you would like to see my items for sale, please email me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net, and I would be happy to forward the sale email to you. Any order or purchase will be greatly appreciated.

Aunt Janet's Famous Sayings

This one is borrowed from someone else - the author is unknown.

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder." If someone really cares for you, they will be back. Let them go. If it is meant to be, it will be.

I think back on my life, and wonder ... but I am not sad with the choices I have made. For if someone really loved me, I would have been able to fly, to reach for the stars, and then land back safely in their arms. This I have found.

Unconditional Love

"Dogs give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive."

Gildna Radner

When you are sad or happy, mad or joyful, having a bad hair day or totally right day, your dog will always love you. They are always happy to see you! A dog will be there for you when the rest of the world has seemed to move to another planet. They are loyal, loving, and faithful.

I have been blessed with 5 dogs in my lifetime, 5 dogs that I could call my own. Each one filled my life with love. There was Lance, or Sir Lancelot of Peanuts, because my dad would only call him Peanuts since he was the runt of his litter. He was the one that first taught me about unconditional love. When my heart was broken, or I was celebrating a new love, he was there. Even though he was a smaller schnoodle, he stood up to the world, strutting his stuff, and loving me with his whole wagging being.

Then there was Allie, my princess and Lance's surprise "I can so be a father" daughter. Half Lhasa Apso and half Schnoodle, she was spunky and full of life, running here and there, but always stopping for a kiss. She stayed longer than her time so my heart wouldn't hurt any worse than it was already hurting, because of...

Sheba, my lady. She was my protector. Half German Shepherd and half Husky, she watched over her domain with passion, and played with as much passion. She loved children that grew up with her, and all stray animals that came into her domain. Her uncle was known to come and take her for rides, and I swear she would jump the fence and run just so she could get a ride on the way home. She died when I wasn't ready. Allie, old and weak, hung on for a couple of months to help ease my pain.

Then came Puppy - an angel sent straight from heaven! She's the peacemaker, the protector, the nursemaid. She breaks up fights, protects the weaker animals in the family, and is a wonderful nursemaid when someone is sick. In the months before Allie died, Puppy would put her nose under Allie's belly and help her stand up. This is why I believe that she is an angel sent to me!

After Sheba and Allie, I thought my heart would never heal. See, every time I asked God for a baby, He sent me another animal to mother. And now, two were gone in such a short time. I did not know His plans. Maggie was on her way! Maggie is my free spirit! Figured out how to get out of her crate within the first month! Smart, never leaves me alone, needs constant attention, loves to get into trouble, but loves to learn. She keeps 12 year old Puppy on her toes and young at heart!!

If we could only show others this kind of love - what a different world this would be!

Money Saving Tip

Never, ever leave a dog alone with a simmering crockpot. No matter how good the dog is OR how many times you have left them alone with the crockpot before, he or she will someday end up being the worst dog in the world (even worse than Marley).

Our Maggie ate our whole Christmas ham while we were seeing "Marley and Me" on Christmas Day. She took it right out the crockpot, unplugged it, and shared it with her dog mom and 3 brother cats. At least, she had the Christmas spirit.

We came home to a big mess (she got sick), no ham, a burnt nose, and Maggie with a stomach that was twice as big as usual, moaning "I ate too much!" She was so pathetic looking that we didn't have the heart to get mad at her. Come on, we just saw "Marley and Me", and Maggie won the Worst Dog competition hands down!

Food is expensive, and people food isn't good for dogs. So, to save money, make sure that the dog never is left unintended with a crockpot.

Money Making Tip

Blogs! I make money on the advertising you see in my blog. Some advertises pay me if you click on their site, some if you sign up, and some if you buy something. One cool site is Smilebox - you can try it before you buy it! It's a fun site, and has really cool scrapbook pages!

Also, you really do make money with SnapDollars and InBox Dollars. It might not be a whole lot, or it may take a while, but it does work. Try them!

Other Money Making Tips

Home-based businesses - I have three. I sell jewelry (my passion), cooking utensils, and tasty foods. If you would like to hear about any of these, email me. I'd be happy to send you a catalog or direct you to my websites. If you work them, they make money, especially the jewelry. Women love jewelry!!! New catalogs are coming out soon!

Shoot for the Moon

Shoot for the moon.

Even if you miss it

you will land among the stars.

Lester Louis Brown

Where are my stars? I know that they are there, I just have to look differently at the sky - my situation.

You know how you see a goal almost being reached, and then all of a sudden it is snagged away. The disappointment can be so heart wrenching. For example, I want to adopt internationally, but I am not financially able to. I felt like I was being blessed with $$$, but it never came. I know that this is one of the road stones that I need to climb over. God has a reason, I just don't know what it is.

Maybe I am suppose to find other means to make $$$, like selling more jewelry, or more kitchen gadgets. Maybe by updating my blog more and inviting more people to view the blog. Maybe by selling some of "stuff".


Time-Saving Tip

Organize your bills by date. Write the date and amount on the envelope. This way you won't have to look through the whole pile every time you pay bills.


Easy Recipe

Creamy & Cheese Potatoes

1 pkg of Southern Style Hash Browns (cubed, not shredded)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
8 oz. cheddar cheese

Cook hash browns until soft (don't have to brown). I usually cook it on medium heat. Add soup and cheese. Finish cooking over low heat until potatoes are done.


Money Saving Tip

Shop by a list. And never go grocery shopping when hungry. This will save you a lot of money.


SAVINGS

If you would like to be put on my jewelry mailing list, please e-mail me at auntjanetjwlr@sbcglobal.net. Later this week, I plan on having a Table Sale with lots of discounted jewelry, and hope to post and e-mail them.

Want a Free Purse and Free Jewelry? Have a Jewelry Home Show! You can keep it very simple by having a 2 of your friends, you, and me show. E-mail me.

Also, if anyone is interested in having a kitchen gadget Internet Show, please e-mail me.

(I'm trying to look for the stars! Please help! Any ideas would be appreciated!!)

Dreams are Reachable

One person working toward a dream is worth 99 people just working.

Lani Kraus, writer

Dreams give you purpose - something to strive for. You continuously grow, reaching for this goal. Sometimes the goal comes easily. For many, the goal seems out of reach. This is how I feel right now - my dreams are unreachable. But, from experience, I know that if I work at them, little by little, dreams are reachable! I read that -- if you write down your dream, break it up into attainable pieces, and look at the parts instead of the whole thing -- as you cross off the parts accomplished, you can see that this dream can be realized.

Nothing has come easily to me. I've had to work hard for everything I have received in my life. I'm not complaining. This has made me a stronger person. For example, I paid my way through college. Yes, I didn't get top grades, but okay grades. But yet, I appreciate what it took for me to get that degree, and it wasn't just studying. I always envied girls in my house that had brand new clothes and nice cars. I wore t-shirts and jeans, and drove a beater car. I had to work instead of party. Since I worked so hard to get through school, I know I accomplished something great!

You can also realize your dreams! It may take a lot of work and time, but, in the end, it is so worth it! Dream Big! Reach for the Stars!

Money Savings Tip

Before you use a coupon, check to see what quantity is really cheaper. Sometimes it pays to use the coupon for the smaller item.

Recipes

I need your help! I'm looking for easy broccoli recipes. I have an over abundance of broccoli in my garden this year. Please help me out and post your recipe.