CREATE: Making Something of Today!

On this Merry Christmas Night....

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 14:49:00 +0000

Merry Christmas, blog friends!

I know you're wondering, "Did she finish painting her family room (finally....)??"

(Nope!)

* * *

Doesn't this look like how our days are sometimes?

Myriad things scattered about, unfinished.

Trying to take a cozy, restful seat by the fire, but still that seat stays empty.

We try to make things brighter, but the light strings don't quite have the power to make things clear for us.

And we wonder how many coats it will take to cover up what had been there before, without splotches and unevenness. (Three may just be right--sigh....!)

* * *

We may have things unfinished. We may have "miscalculated" the use of our time. Or perhaps we were called away to other things for which we were needed, even if they weren't part of our plans.

Even in our peaceful approach to Christmas, that seat of rest may be vacant. But the opportunity to "Be still...." doesn't always lie in a cozy seat by the fire.

We may go about our days feeling a lack of energy, or a lack of that "spark" or "glow" that radiates the Christmas spirit. But the true Light of Christmas can shine brighter through us than a string of twinkling bulbs.

As for the splotches and unevenness, we were not promised days without difficulty, without challenge, without trouble. But that doesn't mean we don't have hope, or can't have our hope restored.

Love is raining down on the world tonight
There's a presence here I can tell
God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel
He's the Savior we have been praying for
In our humble hearts He will dwell
God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel

Let the words sink in tonight, tomorrow, and into 2010 and beyond--every day!
God is IN us. God is FOR US! God is WITH us, Emmanuel!!

Merry Christmas!

Home for Christmas

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:09:00 +0000

I had the opportunity to play for the MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) brunch at church a couple weeks ago. I can never say no to MOPS. It's just one of those things.

In 2001, I joined the group as a first-time mom of a 2 year old and have been serving or helping support them in some way since then. Last year, I was their Mentor Mom. This year, I'm a soloist at brunch. Not quite the same, is it? But, there is a time and season for everything, and the level of my involvement continues to change.

When the leadership--sweet devoted moms with whom I've shared all kinds of moments--approached me about performing, I said, "Yes! Can't say no to MOPS!" But, when it came time to find something to play, that was when things got challenging. I didn't have much time to decide, as I needed time to rehearse, to find an accompanist and to sub for two upcoming bell choir concerts (which is a challenge in itself when you're directing).

I had it on my heart to play "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Didn't know why. Always liked the flow of the song and had some nice piano music that would work well as accompaniment. But, what else? I usually play a medley, because I like to tie in a contemporary Christian song with the Christmas music--it sends the message that Christ goes beyond Christmas.

I also had some dear friends on my heart--two mothers of preschoolers who passed away this year after long and incredibly strong fights against some tough cancers. Neither one was in the MOPS group (Miche actually coordinated MOPS groups for the entire Richmond area), but both had ties to the people in the group, which suddenly made the music all that more personal. They are both home for Christmas in the most real sense of the phrase.

So, in the end, I had two secular Christmas songs wrapping a favorite Christian song of my friend Kate ("Come to Jesus"). In introducing the medley, I reminded the group that this is a season filled with lots of emotions. To deny the losses and what we feel is to deny the opportunity for healing and wholeness. "Israel's strength and consolation," as we sing in "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus" is not just the One who came and will come again, but the One who is here now, to comfort and encourage us wherever we are.

Not without some "grace notes" but with lots of heart, here's my medley. Special thanks to Chatty Kelly for, again, being the videographer, and to Jon, Minister of Worship and Arts at my church, for his supportive and gracious accompaniment!

For Kate and Miche....

Rockin' Around....

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 05:01:00 +0000

We Interrupt This Blog (Again!)

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 13:19:00 +0000

I was telling the truth about the snow a Saturday or two back.

But now I'm REALLY telling the truth!

It will be 12 to 16 inches by the time the day is through.

There is even a 30 percent chance of snow on Christmas Eve.

Yes, Virginia...there is snow today!!

I Knew in a Moment....

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 03:58:00 +0000

Because who else has that kind of blinding light, except for Rudolph... (And he was making chili for the guys back at the firehouse! Oh wait--we're in Virginia. Make that Brunswick stew!)

The best part for CJ was eating her candy cane before bed. For RJ2, it was running on the driveway in pajamas.

And I was just so pleased that since RJ2 had already brushed her teeth that she knew NOT to eat her candy cane.

But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,

Whhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....WWWHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhh.........

(I wish they didn't give Rudolph kitchen duty on our night!)

Old Favorite Gets New Twist: PUMPKIN-CHOCOLATE CHIP CAKE

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 05:00:00 +0000

Like cranberries, pumpkin rates really high on my list of favorite Fall/Winter treats. When given the choice of pumpkin pie, mince pie or cherry pie at Grandma's table, pumpkin won hands down! Whipped cream? Yes, please!!

After I got married, and decided being domestic meant making more stuff from scratch (whaa??), I started making my own pumpkin pie filling. No canned shortcuts for me! I baked many a whole pumpkin in the oven, reserving the seeds to make my own salted pumpkin seed snacks. Those never worked out well. And, truly, the early pumpkin pies I brought to my sister's Thanksgiving Day table were...well...earthy!

Time marches on, and I've discovered a few tips since the earthy days. I cut the pumpkin first and boil it rather than baking a whole pumpkin. Seeds and strings are removed before baking and it's a much easier (and probably more energy-efficient) method. My husband bought me a ricer several Christmases ago. It really makes a difference when you rice your cooked pumpkin. Puree with the quality of a fine mashed potato!

Unfortunately, my house is not big on pumpkin pie. But, with pumpkin's delicious nutrients, I can't let the opportunity to give the girls something tasty and healthy pass by. For them, pumpkin-chocolate chip muffins, and they eat them any time of the year (and I even buy canned pumpkin in the summer!).

For the grown-ups (and RJ2, who loves cake in general), Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip cake! My thanks to Chatty Kelly for sharing her recipe, which she, and now I, credit to the folks at Taste of Home publications.

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
2 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans, divided (optional)

Directions

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon; add to the creamed mixture alternately with pumpkin. Fold in chocolate chips.
Divide batter in half. Stir melted chocolate into one portion. In a well-greased 10-in. fluted tube pan, sprinkle 1/2 cup pecans. Spoon chocolate batter over pecans; top with pumpkin batter. Sprinkle with remaining pecans.
Bake at 325° for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Yield: 12 servings.

New Kid in the Kitchen/COCONUT-LEMON LOAF

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:33:00 +0000

When I'm pondering recipes for Christmas brunch, I like to make sure that all the major "scentsations" are included. For me, that means some...

Cranberry--which usually includes orange and brown sugar (see last post); Apples--and cinnamon;
Pumpkin--and cloves, allspice and ginger;
Berries--even though they are off-season, I love the look of mixed berries on the table, and I'll frequently have a batch of frozen summer-picked blueberries around for muffins;
Chocolate (a touch of the browniful....); and,
Lemon--which leads to today's recipe.

[See how pretty that looks?]

There's something about a lemon-flavored cake or bar that is really yummy and refreshing alongside other foods. It's why we sometimes put lemon in tea or water or unflavored seltzer water, or spritz some on chicken, broccoli or fish when we're making up a hot dish. Lemon gets those taste buds awake! Cleanses the palate, too.

This is a recipe from Family Fun magazine, which has been an annual gift from my folks to us at Christmas for many years now. I rarely get the chance to just sit down with it, mostly because when it arrives at the house, CJ grabs it off the mail pile and disappears with it. Sequestering herself with an issue for days, she'll often ask me if I've seen this or read that, forgetting that she is the only one who has actually opened the magazine!

But, before it gets recycled, I read through the issue and usually find a tidbit or, in this case, recipe, to rip out and file away.

When I saw this is an issue on specialty breads, it looked like a sure winner--lemon and coconut?! Perfect for the beach trip....anytime! I made my first loaf and promptly turned it over for a Teacher Appreciation Day at school. It looked great! My Mom and sisters made it for Thanksgiving at my sister's house; I heard about it on the phone.

Then, I made it for brunch and froze it (and rewarmed it! So important....). Finally got to taste it. Mmm.... And you've got to make the "optional" glaze with it. With fresh zest and juice--oh my! As Food Network Star chef Guy Fieri would say, you could pour this on your flip-flop and it would taste out of this world! It's like spending Christmas on Christmas Island....How'd ya like to hang a stocking on a great big coconut tree?...

COCONUT-LEMON LOAF

Ingredients
* 1 cup sugar
* 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 3 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
* 1-1/2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest
* 1 teaspoon lemon extract
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 large eggs
* 3/4 cup buttermilk
* 2-1/2 cups flour
* 2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (2 ounces) sweetened flaked coconut
* Coconut-Lemon Glaze (optional...[NOT!] See below)

Instructions
1. Line a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan with waxed or parchment paper (or grease and flour it), then set it aside. Heat the oven to 350º.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, oil, lemon zest, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and milk.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and the buttermilk until evenly blended. Set the bowl aside. 4. In a medium-size bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. With a wooden spoon, stir about a third of the flour mixture into the sugar mixture, then alternately add half of the remaining egg mixture and half of the flour mixture, stirring after each addition just enough to blend. Stir in the coconut.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spoon. Bake on the center oven rack until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean, about 45 to 50 minutes.
6. Remove the pan from the oven and put it on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes, then remove the loaf and place it on the rack to finish cooling. When the loaf is completely cooled, in about two hours, apply the Coconut-Lemon Glaze, if using. Makes 10 servings.

COCONUT-LEMON GLAZE
Ingredients
* 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon melted butter
* 1/8 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
* 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Instructions
1. Combine the confectioners' sugar, lemon juice, butter, and lemon extract (if using) in a small bowl. Whisk to blend. The glaze should have the consistency of heavy cream. If needed, add more sugar to thicken it or more lemon juice to thin it.
2. When the bread has cooled, spoon the glaze evenly over the bread and immediately sprinkle the coconut over the top. Makes enough glaze for one large loaf.

Perennial Favorite/UPSIDE-DOWN BREAKFAST CAKE

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:32:00 +0000

I'm not sure when I first came to appreciate the cranberry. Maybe it was back at my Grandmother's dinner table when she'd serve up Thanksgiving dinner with cranberry-orange relish. I love the ornamental look of dried cranberries. My Dad strung some on a wire-framed heart to dry with a raffia bow (which looks great in our new red room, which is still not done, friends, but getting closer every day!). I love to wear the color, too.

I remember my husband and I touring the Ocean Spray museum in Cape Cod, and we learned everything you'd ever want to learn about cranberry harvesting. We were vacationing there before my sister's beach wedding that weekend, and I was very early pregnant with CJ. Didn't stop me from rollerblading on the riverwalk (though that was my last time for awhile). She loves cranberry juice, by the way.

Ah, cranberries.... Just don't spill them anywhere!

When I started scoping out recipes for Christmas brunch, this was one of those I pulled. It seemed difficult at the time, but every recipe seemed challenging then. I pull this one every year now, because it's seasonally perfect, can be prepared in advance (but you must warm it up!), and its ingredients combine to give the house that scent of Christmas that blends just right with a fresh tree (or not!).

Upside-Down Breakfast Cake

1/2 C (1 stick) plus 2 T unsalted butter, softened

1 C packed light brown sugar

2-1/2 C fresh cranberries, blueberries or blackberries

1-1/2 C unbleached all-purpose flour

2-1/2 t baking powder

1/2 t salt

3/4 C granulated sugar

2 eggs

1/2 C freshly squeezed orange juice (for cranberries) or 1/4 C freshly squeezed lemon juice (for blueberries or blackberries) [I used two large oranges for juice and zest.]

1/3 C low-fat milk

1/2 t vanilla extract

2 T grated orange zest (cranberries) or 1 T grated lemon zest (blueberries or blackberries)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Combine 2 T of the butter and the brown sugar in a small bowl, then spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of a lightly greased 9” round cake pan. Spread the berries over the mixture and set aside. [I have found that a 9" pie plate works well, too. Please put a baking pan under your cake pan or pie plate, because it can cook up big!]

Combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Reserve.

In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 C butter, the sugar, and the eggs, and beat until creamy smooth. Add the reserved dry ingredients, juice, milk, vanilla and zest, and beat until well blended. Pour the batter over the berries and bake until the top is golden and a skewer tests clean when inserted in the center, 50-55 minutes.

Remove from the oven, run a knife around the inside edge of the pan, cover the cake with a serving plate, and invert the cake onto the plate, fruit side up. Cool slightly before serving warm.

Makes one 9” cake; serves 8 to 12. From James McNair's Breakfast.

We Interrupt This Cooking Blog

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:53:00 +0000

...To bring you word that

It's SNOWING!!!

What do you mean you can't see it?

Christmas Morning Treat/HASH BROWN FRITTATA

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 01:49:00 +0000

There are so many wonderful parts of Christmas morning. For us, one of them is Christmas breakfast--special food for a special day! But, who likes to cook on Christmas morning? Some may see that as a family-together venture. But, coming up in a family that didn't make a big deal out of breakfast--ever!--I definitely wasn't up for making something extravagant when I could otherwise be enjoying my husband's company, Christmas music, gifts and coffee under the tree.

So, years ago, my husband and I started a tradition of prepping a breakfast casserole on Christmas Eve. We have tried various versions including a stale bread cubes soaked in egg overnight style...even huevos rancheros. We have now found a winning combination in a recipe from Bob Evans! The red and green peppers definitely make this casserole look Christmasy. And, if you serve breakfast for dinner--as we often do at our house--you don't even have to let this set up overnight. In 45 minutes, you can have a yummy frittata!

The picture on Bob Evans' website doesn't do the dish justice. It looks really dry, doesn't it? It's not! And, it was the most requested recipe at my annual Christmas brunch two years running.

Ingredients

10 oz. of breakfast sausage (Pick your favorite; we like a sage variety in a roll, but links work, too. And, truth be told, I just cook up the whole pound!!)

2-1/2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, THAWED

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Though we're partial to Monterey Jack)

6 eggs

1/3 cup whipping cream

1/4 cup green and/or red bell peppers, chopped

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 teaspoon salt

Dash black pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Break up or cut sausage into bite-size pieces. Cook in small skillet over medium heat until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Drain off any drippings. Whisk eggs in medium bowl; stir in sausage and remaining ingredients. Pour into greased 2-quart casserole dish. Bake, uncovered, 30 minutes or until eggs are almost set. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting into squares; serve hot. Refrigerate leftovers.

Celebrating Friends/COCOA BLOCKS

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:03:00 +0000

I have a lot of friends. (I know....who would have thought?) But, I do! And I'm so thankful for them. AND, I love making small treats for them at Christmastime.

My bloggy friend Carmen had these wonderful bookmarks posted on her crafty blog many weeks ago. I knew the moment I saw her pictures that it was the perfect little something for my friends. So, I asked her how to make them. She must have had quite a few questions of a similar vein, as she was led to do her first video training post on this very topic! Carmen, thank you so much--it worked!! And now that I've folded 150 or so, I think I can do this blindfolded!

Daughter CJ learned to make the star boxes from one of her origami books. They make just the right opening for a deep, dark, delicious browniful cocoa block!

This is the first of several recipe posts this month. Here's how to make COCOA BLOCKS:

1/2 cup (4 oz) heavy cream
14-oz can sweetened condensed milk
3 cups (18 oz) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (chopped chocolate bars or chips)
3/4 cup (4 oz) unsweetened baking chocolate
wooden sticks, optional

Line an 8"x8" pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Heat the cream and condensed milk over low heat until steaming. Remove from heat and add the chocolate; allow it to gently melt. After about 10 minutes, return the chocolate mixture to low heat to completely melt the chocolate. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is thick and shiny. Add a few drops of flavoring oil, if you like--hazelnut, coffee or vanilla.

Pour the chocolate mixture into the pan; shake the pan gently to level. Sprinkle with cocoa, if desired. Set aside overnight to slowly set up.

Run a knife around the edge of the pan and turn chocolate out onto a clean cutting surface. Slice into 1-1/4" cubes. Heat a knife in hot water and wipe dry before each cut, for smoothest cuts. If you wish, stick a wooden stick into the center of each block.

Roll in cocoa or crushed peppermint candy, if desired. Wrap in waxed paper, parchment, or plastic wrap to store.

Take small nibbles. But, probably best, swirl the cocoa block in one cup of warm milk for a delicious hot chocolate!

Yield: about 3 dozen blocks.

Recipe from King Arthur Flour

Happy Thanksgiving!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 03:45:00 +0000

"He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me;
And to him who orders his way aright
I shall show the salvation of God."
--Psalm 50:23

* * *

Happy Thanksgiving, Friends and Family!

* * *

Let all things now living

A song of thanksgiving

To God the creator

Triumphantly raise.

Who fashioned and made us,

Protected and stayed us,

Who still guides us on

To the end of our days.

God's banners are o'er us,

His light goes before us,

A pillar of fire

Shining forth in the night.

Till shadows have vanished

And darkness is banished

As forward we travel

From light into light.

His law he enforces,

The stars in their courses

And sun in its orbit

Obediently shine;

The hills and the mountains,

The rivers and fountains,

The deeps of the ocean

Proclaim him divine.

We too should be voicing

Our love and rejoicing;

With glad adoration

A Song let us raise

Till all things now living

Unite in thanksgiving:

"To God in the highest,

Hosanna and praise!"

--Katherine K. Davis

(Sung to the tune of "The Ashgrove")

Bye-bye to the 85!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Last night, the school held its Exhibition and Recognition Night for the PTA Reflections program. For me, it marked an end (pretty much....) to months of work--executing promotional plans; receiving students' art and literature entries; finding and dining with judges; tabulating results; producing awards, certificates and a wrap-up movie; and coordinating last night.

(Sigh!)

Everything went very well last night. After some rough patches along the journey--and my technical difficulties dealing with my laptop and the school's projection system [I was so nervous about switching between PowerPoint and the movie and back that I kept hitting the 'ctrl' button instead of the 'fn' button. At least one in the audience said a prayer for me in that 30 seconds of "dead air." If you've had that kind of a moment, you can feel the sweat beading up about now....]--I can honestly say that last night was...

A little sad!

We got to put the kids' names up with their work. It had been all "blind" up until that point, except to my eyes, so it was a relief and a joy to give the kids all the credit they deserved for their work. I got to talk with a few kids, and I know their names (even their middle names!) so well now that I could have a real conversation with them!

But then, the artwork came down, and many pieces went back home. Although they all left with Certificates of Merit, I wish it wasn't a competition. Because you really shouldn't judge creativity.

But, eight are moving on to the County competition, and I need to get their entries off next week. (See, pretty much done.... It's like having more kids! When are you really done?!) So, because I know you're curious. Here is the movie with the kids' entries--85 entries in all, including the first song featured and the film clip. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday, Dear Edie!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0000

Elegant Design; Is Easygoing

Ever Diligent In Exploration

Emanates Delight In Empowering

Embodies Deity In Everything

Edifying g-Daughters In Eternity

Everyone Declares Is Excellent

(And a browniful cake to celebrate!)

Happy Birthday, Edie!!

(And you can find Edie here.)

Wrap up of the Big Dress-Up

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0000

I sat in the chair, looking up at CJ, when I noticed a beam of sunlight across her T-shirt.

"Every kid in the neighborhood has just let out a little scream of joy," I said.

The rain that had filled the day came to a pause--just long enough for the kids to have their moment of pretend and to collect the treats that would last them through.... well, I guess it depends on the kid (or the parent!).

RJ2 had been on "door duty" most years--sometimes in costume, sometimes not. This year, she was adamant about donning a costume and joining friends in the street. She had a choice to be a bunny or a dancer.

What she doesn't know is that her mama wore that tutu for her first dance recital!

CJ's costume came together out of an evening of playtime she had with her sister. Santa was coming to visit with his big bag of toys. And to look like Santa, CJ put a deflated red rubber ball on her head. Upon entering the room, I said, "You look like an eraser."

The pencil is "a #2 Awesome Pencil" from the "Creativity Rules" factory. It is also a very socially conscious pencil, as she picked up close to $14 in donations for Unicef, along with her $14 (at least!) in assorted candies.

We still have too many bags of chips left, but they'll make a great send-in for someone's Winter Party in December.

* * *

From the "They're Creepy and They're Kooky" Files (Mostly kooky...mostly funny!)

...my sister's family

Da-da-da-dah! (snap! snap!)

Da-da-da-dah! (snap! snap!)

Etc.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

The 85 Babies

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:41:00 +0000

"No, I can't blog right now. I'm taking care of 85 babies, and it's been just a bit tiring for me."

You've heard me talk about the Reflections program in my Daybook blogs for the past two months. Forty years ago, the National PTA put together a program for students with a bent toward arts and literature. Reflections is a theme-based competition, affording students the opportunity to express themselves through their arts medium of choice.

I love this, of course. Encouraging kids to be creative--bring it on!! I couldn't wait to be chairperson. I always thought that the whole program at our school needed a bit of a promotional boost and definitely needed an element that would allow it to linger past the closing ceremonies. And, earlier this spring, I was up to that challenge.

Now, I'm taking care of 85 babies.

There were 85 entries into the program this year. (There were 51 entries last year.) And they're all at my house now. (Well, except for about 40 photography entries that I had to leave with a professional studio photographer who's doing some judging this weekend.)

Still, I haven't felt this much stress over anything in a long time--logging in entries, coding them for student privacy, tabulating results and dealing with the rules (and the not-so-understanding parents on the other end). I wish the position were just about admiring these wonderful creations and sharing the judges' feedback with these young creators, to encourage their growth. What seemed like such a right fit for me back in the spring is now reminding me (yet again) that administrative stuff just isn't my strongest suit.

But, I have these 85 babies....

It's amazing what five and six year olds see in a theme like "Beauty is...." And it's amazing to read how an "upperclassman" captures the essence of a beautiful person with words. There are so many marvelous colors in these works, textures. Vibrancy. Love.

And I'm feeling perhaps just a wee small bit like God felt upon gazing at His amazing creation. The sheer delight of having made something--something good!

85 something goods....

Next week, I will finalize the award tallies and prepare the logo artwork for the winners' medallions and participants' certificates. In a few weeks, we'll transform the cafeteria into a museum, opening the doors for others to experience the joy that I have known with these 85 babies. Then, some entries will move forward to the county finals and some will return home to their creators--but not before I capture all of them in a book for the library...for posterity and future classes of creators.

Though I will not miss the administrative headaches, the meticulous caring for details and the tabulations of the final expenses, that I was caretaker of 85 babies--85 endeavors to "make something"--will remain a treasured time. A glimpse into the minds of some creative kids. Encouragement that pursuit of arts and literature lives on.

Here I Am to Worship

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 12:07:00 +0000

Undo Video

Triple Play!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:38:00 +0000

American Idol Season 8 contestant Matt Giraud

Sue J. in the Matt Giraud-style fedora

Pumpkin in Fedora

* * *

Somewhere in the patch is a pumpkin for you--Go find it this weekend!!

"A Painter's Progress"

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:52:00 +0000

Edie and Chatty Kelly have asked me how the Family Room is progressing. As you can see, we're up to our ceiling in a dark rosy pink! Not exactly what I'd call Daredevil, but that will change soon.

Will try to put something other the The Daybook and "A Painter's Progress" on the blog--LOL!!

We did have a fun outing to a local pumpkin patch. (Catch the slideshow at right.) I am absolutely taken by the pictures of these rich orange fruits out in the fields of mangled wild morning glory vines. It doesn't speak of a traditional Autumn at all, but I love the colors!

OK, crankin' up the Chris Tomlin and back to my roller!

A Daybook Entry

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:33:00 +0000

* * *

FOR TODAY, Wednesday, October 7, 2009...

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW...

Dark. Breezy. I'm thinking "storm's coming," but I've been wrong about that too many times to say the rain is coming for sure. My ankle--twisted in a college tennis class--serves as my barometer, and it's not twinging today. The grass seed that my husband planted and fertilized has not only sprouted but is truly showing some depth this morning.

I AM THINKING...

As I commented on ADHDMe's blog the other day, I've been enjoying the days, lately, and not feeling like writing about anything in them. But, because a big reason why I blog is to stay connected with folks, I'm writing this morning. I'm thinking that I'm enjoying these days more--full as they are!

I AM THANKFUL FOR...

CJ's working so hard at school and being so committed to following her teacher's guidelines. She doesn't get a lot of homework because they do so much at school. But, her teacher does expect students to read and study their notebooks--to keep material fresh in their heads and to avoid last-minute cramming for quizzes and tests. It's a wonderful skill to instill early. Much better than anything I used to do. CJ takes a timer to her room. Every time it goes off, I know she's switching to a different book. So proud of her!

RJ2's adjustment to Kindergarten. Even though she doesn't share much about her day, we have many "reporters" out there who tell us that she is picking up on everything and showing spurts of creativity in what she does.

Also, for a bell choir who consistently demonstrates commitment and perseverance, despite little practice and whatever personal challenges face members. We played our first concert on Monday night, and it was an occasion to remember. Gorgeous music, a wonderfully receptive audience, ringers who ring from their hearts as well as out of their hands. Just fantastic!

FROM THE LEARNING ROOMS...

I am continually challenged--in facing a musical performance--in my preparation. As a director, I don't have to worry about ringing the music. But, as a director, I have 14 players and additional musicians to bring into unity for a performance (and caring for them outside of a performance situation). Plus, from a spiritual perspective, our mission is about bringing Love and the message of God's Word to those for whom we play.

This season, I am focusing on the relationships I have with people, even as I need to build their technical skills. I am definitely still learning how to do that. I can't help but put myself in the shoes of any teacher or pastor and see how difficult their work can be. (But, it is so very rewarding!)

FROM THE KITCHEN...

Tonight, I am attempting my first frittata! Eggs, onion, Asiago cheese, red potatoes. I was thinking about making "breakfast for dinner" this week anyway. Once the bag that held the dozen eggs fell out of my grocery cart on the way to the car, I was assured that this was the perfect week to attempt the frittata.

I AM WEARING...

Painting clothes! The light green paint from last year's bathroom project is still on my maroon shirt. I am a few pieces of blue tape away from putting on the Daredevil-tinted primer in our family room. I am taking off my brand-new browniful furry slippers, however.

I AM CREATING...

Nothing really fun yet. I need to create some Excel spreadsheets and judging forms for the PTA Reflections competition. I have most of the judges in place except for the Literature category. May have to call on some of you in the blogosphere if our local experts aren't able to step forward.

I AM GOING...

Nowhere today! It is painting day. Got to finish this blog and get going to the family room! Tomorrow, I'll be going to school to read the morning announcements (promoting Reflections for the kids; we need more entries, too!).

I AM READING...

The other night, I finished The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, MD. Have known the languages for awhile but hadn't read a book in the series. Didn't love this book. (It's so dry! The examples they do provide don't even seem "real." Chapman's done a bunch of these; I fear it shows here.) I do understand the message, however. Now, catching up on some periodicals--my last issue of MOPS' MomSense and my first issue of FulFill, which is also my first online subscription magazine and it's now a free publication. (See the link to the FulFill blog on my roll.)

I AM HOPING...

To finish all painting by the end of October! We are getting new carpet in there, too, and I'd love to see that all done before Thanksgiving. As for my reupholstering the furniture, that may take until the New Year. (They haven't written Reupholstering for Dummies, but if you have another book source for me or an online class, I'm up for recommendations.)

I AM HEARING...

The whir of the hard drive in the laptop. The refrigerator's hum. The ticking of the kitchen clock. The breeze that has picked up since I started writing this morning.

AROUND THE HOUSE...

Everywhere I look, I see a project. But, knowing that I'll be painting today gives me focus. There will ALWAYS be a project if I look for one--LOL! The key is just planning for the day, and then scrapping the plan when necessary.

ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS...

Watching baseball on TV with my husband. We watched the last game of the regular season yesterday--a tiebreaker game between the Detroit Tigers and the Minnesota Twins. It was an amazing game to watch. Went in to extra innings. Both teams really kept it close throughout the night--and it went longer than four hours! In the end, the Twins won it (which made me happy). Now, the post-season begins, and the Twins will be fighting the New York Yankees this afternoon.

But, you should know that we're die-hard Washington Nationals' fans, regardless of the fact that they were, practically, the worse team in baseball this year. They are the scrappy Nats! And we look forward to root-root-rooting for the "home" team next Spring. (And, we are acquiring a new minor league team in town. They are down to five names, including "The Hambones." YIKES! Where are the writers!?!)

A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK:

I'm sorry, did someone say 'plans'? Maybe that was my paint cans calling.

HERE IS A PICTURE THOUGHT I AM SHARING...

I'll be right there!!

* * *

Click on the "Daybook" icon to link to Peggy's blog for more entries.

Encouragement to Write

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:08:00 +0000

I wrote a fan E-mail the other day.

I told you how much I enjoyed reading Nora Raleigh Baskin's book Anything But Typical. Since writers are now listing websites and other means of contact on their book jackets, it made it fairly easy to find her. Just had to say how amazed I was with her ability to get inside the brain of an autistic teenager and to have him speak to us in "our language." Absolutely captivated me.

Well, she wrote me back, which was awfully kind. I wasn't really expecting anything, and the part of me that might have expected something was expecting one of those pre-packaged thank-you's. (Who has time to write thank-you's to readers?)

No, she was sincere, and she was grateful to have someone take the time to find her and to acknowledge her work. Her thank-you was a warm, fuzzy start to the day, as if her book hadn't touched me enough.

* * *

Speaking of the book, I have to share this wonderful story from the book. The lead character, Jason, is attending a special writer's workshop. He is nervous about being in the class with "neurotypicals." But, as the instructor begins his talk, Jason finds that the instructor is speaking his language. [Quotes are directly from Nora Raleigh Baskin's book, Anything But Typical]

The course instructor asks a question.

"What is the most important part of a writer's body?"

A woman answers, "Their heart."

"Good answer...but not the one I am looking for. Not the most essential. There are lots of writers with no heart at all."

Other answers come in: hands, brain, fingers, eyes, ears.

Then Jason prepares to speak.

"So I jump out of my seat. I stand up. And all those things are loose inside me, like letters of the alphabet that have no meaning until they are all put together. In one particular way that no one else can do. In one moment. In one voice. That is mine."

"'My bottom!' I say out loud."

"And it gets very quiet in the room. Everyone stops calling out answers, and they are all looking at me the way they do in school sometimes, just before everyone starts to laugh. Like in art class, and in gym class. Not the nice kind of laugh...."

"But Hamilton, the dwarf teacher, says, 'Exactly!'"

"He points right at me. 'You've got to sit down on your bottom and write. Writing is all we have,'" he says...." "'All we are, all we can be, are the stories we tell....Long after we are gone, our words will be all that is left, and who is to say what really happened or even what reality is? Our stories, our fiction, our words will be as close to truth as can be. And no one can take that away from you.'"

* * *

How's that for encouragement to write?

Five Random Words

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:34:00 +0000

A long time ago, Edie posted a Random Question that all had us thinking things. It was challenging--a knowledge-deepening experience.

This past week, she posted on the "Five Random Words" meme, which I'm not sure will bring the same kind of knowledge-deepening experience. I might be "going deep" to get these thoughts together, but otherwise....

Here's what she gave me to work with: Gather; Glean; Bleep; Worth and Wrestle. Ready...set...GO!

* * *

"Glean this truth, friends: To wrestle with what you are worth in terms of earthly value is to gather to yourself a mound of [bleep]."

It would seem that I have spent some time in Proverbs recently.

For those interested, 'bleep' only has one definition--to censor, as in a telecast, by substituting a beep. To say that "...his horn went 'bleep' 'bleep' 'bleep'" would not be on target.

Perhaps, instead of that kernel of knowledge, I might have chosen to gather up corn so as to glean the kernels within the husks. Corn growin' "high as an elephant's eye" has the potential to hold a crop of great worth, though you might have to wrestle Curly for his surrey with the fringe on the top. [Bleep!]

Is it worth the pain to wrestle with your conscious only to gather the thorns of one's self, to glean nothing but a [bleep] of a headache?

To bleep or not to bleep? I do not find any worth in using expletives, and to cover them up with 'bleep' brings me angst. I chose not to wrestle with that issue, however, but to gather up my words and finish this exercise in randomness. What you glean from this is what comments are for. I glean that I continue to be uncomfortable with a bleep of any kind, except that which removes the need for 'bleep' altogether.

OK, I'm done!

A Daybook Entry

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:02:00 +0000

* * *

FOR TODAY, Tuesday, September 15, 2009...

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW...

The sun is still working its way up; seems to come up slower in the fall. Still crisp and cool. Fall is definitely on time per the calendar this year--early for central Virginia. And, there's a gorgeous pink morning glory blossom out this morning, its vine wrapping and winding its way up the bird feeder pole.

I AM THINKING...

About last night's first bell choir rehearsal of the year. We have two new members, bringing our total to 13 ringers and one substitute. For a 3-1/2 octave choir, this is amazing! I've had to write in parts to make sure everyone has bells, and, in some cases, I'm writing in percussion accompaniment for tunes in which there just aren't any more bells to add. Now the challenge of meeting the needs of 14 people.... It's all good!

I AM THANKFUL FOR...

God's blessing and provision for the above. We started our 5th year, and each year has had its challenges. He has brought us through every single time, and He continues to bless what we do. We have six concert venues between now and Christmas. Wow!

FROM THE LEARNING ROOMS...

I'm one of several team teachers for a Sunday School class on A Woman's Secret to a Balanced Life: Finding God's Refreshing Priorities for You, by Lysa TerKeurst and Sharon Jaynes. Finished the book, and we had our meet-and-greet this past Sunday. As the women were commenting about wanting to be better jugglers and multi-taskers, I realized that I have come to a place where I recognize that life is not about juggling things better but it's about re-prioritizing those multiple things that we see in our lives. Some of those things we aren't supposed to be juggling!! We're not even supposed to be holding those balls!!

Does this mean I've gotten rid of all the balls I have? No, but at least I recognize that there should be a different principle at work in my life. I have come a long way in this regard....really!

FROM THE KITCHEN...

Last night, we had penne with vodka sauce. CJ got all upset because we weren't enjoying the marinara sauce that is my husband's recipe. (Traitors!) Sometimes, you just like something a little different. Tonight, sauteed chicken and red peppers, with coconut rice and black beans. Baking cereal cookies for lunches and homemade banana bread.

I AM WEARING...

A browniful T, shorts and shoes. Put long white socks on today, too, so I can weed the jungle that is behind the bushes in our front yard.

I AM CREATING...

Open spaces again! I'm clearing out bell music and files that have been here all summer, finishing up small sewing projects that have also been in the dining room all summer, and starting to move out old clothes, toys and videos that the girls aren't using anymore.

I AM GOING...

Nowhere today! I can't believe that has been the response for the Daybook, but, perhaps that explains why there is a Daybook entry today at all. Every other day, I have had to go multiple places. It will be nice to be here all day...me and the laundry and baking and home projects.

I AM READING...

Still trying to finish Anything But Typical, by Nora Raleigh Baskin (see last Daybook entry). One thing I didn't mention about the book is that it is a book for youth. CJ plowed through it first thing when it came home from the library. I'm hoping to finish it before it has to go back next week.

I AM HOPING...

To find some judges for the PTA Reflections program. The entries will soon be coming in from the kids. Now I need to secure judges in the six categories (literature, visual arts, photography, film production, dance choreography and music composition). Can't wait to see what the kids come up with for the theme "Beauty is...." I'm sure CJ will enter something, but I need to steer clear of anything she contributes this year, Mom being the chair of the program and all.

I AM HEARING...

Some cricket-like bug with its constant whistle. The white wash is kicking around in the drier. Hoping to hear the garbage truck pull up. It didn't come at all last week and seems to have forgotten to come again this week. Someone might be hearing the sound of "goodbye" soon.

AROUND THE HOUSE...

We cleaned out the family room over Labor Day weekend to make way for painting the room red. The problem is, we can't decide on a shade. It's very hard to visualize such a bold color filling an entire room when you are looking at a 1x5 rectangle, next to four other 1x5 rectangles, next to five other sheets of rectangles!! I will need to venture out to the home store with some choices and ask them to whip us up a couple of mini-pints to test. You don't want to mess up with the "wrong" red. (Just ask those HGTV designers who look at your remodeling efforts to see whose will bring in the most money!)

ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS...

I do love being back with the bell choir. The first night is always awkward, because we don't play over the summer, so folks are just getting back into the swing. Plus, with new folks, you always want to make them feel welcome, and yet it's so overwhelming to join an existing group.

But the sound! I can hear and see how much this group has grown. Even with folks dropping out of the music at various times over the rehearsal, I can hear how well things are going to come together. Our first concert is October 5, so there is little time to prepare. I'm so pleased with what we'll have to offer, even this early in the season.

A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK:

Trying to stay home and get things done. Still not looking for any new plans, thank-you-very-much!

HERE IS A PICTURE THOUGHT I AM SHARING...

"...the whole earth is full of His glory."--Isaiah 6:3

* * *

Click on the "Daybook" icon to link to Peggy's blog for more entries.

Life is Good!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:41:00 +0000

We're riding the bus to school to school, riding the bus to school....

Last Fling!

sjeantheau@gmail.com (Sue J.) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 02:18:00 +0000