Flannel Jammies Farm

Finding Rest and Garden Joy

2012-01-12T12:44:00.001-05:00

It's January.

And my body is sick. Worn thin. Depleted. I've been abed for the last couple of days with headache and stuffiness and coughing and aches and pains and elevated blood sugars. Called again into rest. "Come away. Rest. Drink in the Word. Pray. Listen." Yes, my Lord, yes.

I gingerly stepped out into the garden this morning with Scarlett (she more interested in chasing squirrels than getting fresh air!). Sunshine sparkled on the raindrops left by last night's rain. Breezes pregnant with green and crisp and clean tickled my nose. Tiny birds scattered from their gathering of seeds, singing sweet songs as they went.

And there, in our garden, was life. Life fresh and life vibrant. Life reaching heavenward in praise.

In amazement, I found lush growth in January. Abundance out of season. New life in winter. Wondrous sights for eyes sore and weary. Gifts from the Maker's hand. Refreshment for my tired soul.


Broccoli


Beets


Pansies and Onions


Joi Choi and Onions and Pansies

Slow down, dear ones. Rest often in the Word. Come away to a quiet place to pray (Luke 5:16). Cultivate relationship with the Lord of Lords. In those moments, He will open the the treasures of His universe to your eyes and understanding. He will restore your soul. (Psalm 23:2-3)

The Gift of Pure Joy

2011-12-29T15:20:00.000-05:00

This Christmas I received a gift that has filled me with such joy... even now when I think of it my heart swells and the tears come freely.

We gathered together... this congregation that has loved me and my husband through so many challenges and dangers and happy moments, too... sharing the light, telling one another again, "He has come! God with us!," on Christmas Eve. But there were new faces. Faces never there before to share the light and the good news of Christmas.


Our son, Robert, and his lovely wife, Alison

Our sweet daughter, Trista

This year, for the first time, we gathered together as a family, whole, complete, to share the light.

You see, our children have allergies, lots of allergies. And one of those allergies is to poinsettias. Poinsettias are very high in pollen, and many churches fill their sanctuaries with hundreds of them each Christmas season. Many shops and schools and even doctors' offices do this as well. All in an effort to decorate for the season, to spread some cheer with large, colorful blooms.

What this has meant for our family is that we don't go into restaurants or shops or museums... or even our church... during this season of anticipation and celebration of the Christ child.

But this year, our church took a leap of faith and purchased faux poinsettias. These blooms were just as colorful, just as cheerful. These blooms will be just as beautiful when they are brought into our sanctuary next year, and for many years to come. This one choice, made by our family of faith, allowed me to invite my children to come, to share the light with us.

These dear children, knowing what it would mean to me, came on Christmas Eve with loving smiles and tender hearts. They listened as their father played to our King with handbells. They greeted kind folks and they sang each carol. As the elements of the Lord's Supper were passed from my elder husband, to me, then to Trista and Robert and Alison, and later the candle's light was passed in the same manner, my cup overflowed with joy.

Here we are, among the poinsettias on Christmas Eve

Counting the gifts today...

2011-12-19T17:04:00.000-05:00

This morning started with eyes glued tight and swollen shut, exhausted from so many to-doings and wondering if I should leave the warm comfort of my bed.

Then I started to count. Not 'sheep'. Not 'things to do'.

The gifts. The generous gifts, the abundant gifts, the take-my-breath-away gifts, the tiniest of gifts, the hard gifts, the gifts I never expected.

And the greatest of them is Jesus.

Today I give thanks for...

- a husband working tirelessly on his days off to finish for me a dream on a piece of paper

- a church family showing such love that it overwhelms me

- work for both hands (and a few of my toes!) to keep me busy serving instead of busy grieving

- abundant food... so much that I have to think about what I 'feel like eating'

- clean water

- friends lifting me in prayer

- friends holding my hand and hugging my neck

- friends reminding me of His faithfulness

- friends delighting with me over the small gifts

- Christmas joy and wonder and awe

- moments of peace to ponder God's amazing gift

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

2 Corinthians 9:15

Christmas Thoughts and Images...

2011-12-14T23:19:00.000-05:00

This Christmas finds me...

working at two churches

working through grief and guilt

working on renovating a master suite

working on upcoming obligations

working on my physical health

This Christmas calls me to...

wait expectantly for the Christ Child's arrival

live in a state of genuine gratitude

seek His face

envelope my life in the Word

rest in His care

This Christmas I need to dare to let go and...

breathe in the sacred moments

breathe out praise and thanksgiving

allow Him to enter in, make room for Him, receive Him

Join me?


Providence Presbyterian


Providence Presbyterian Chrismon

Glitter and joy at Providence's Advent Workshop

Our Christmas tree

Second Presbyterian nativity

Second Presbyterian Chrismons

Second Presbyterian's Chrismon tree

Sanctuary at Second Presbyterian

In Providence's Enrichment space

Advent wreath in Providence's Enrichment space


Providence Chancel Choir


Spritz snowflake cookies

Bells of Providence (cute guy on the end is my husband)

Counting on...

2011-11-21T21:15:00.000-05:00

Oh, the gifts! Autumn joys and twinklings of light and smiling love. In the midst of pain and loss, so very many gifts arrive to restore me. Thank You, precious Lord!

- my heartbeat, my love, my umbrella shielding me from the worst of the storm

- so many to-doings keeping me busy

- stuffed acorn squash

- photos, windows into each memory

- the truest care from the truest friends

- turkey, a glorious bird from a sweet local farm family, a bird that was nurtured and not manufactured

- cinnamon ornaments filling our home with a wonderful aroma

- preparing our hearts, anticipating His arrival

- blue skies and fiery leaves

- waking rested and smiling for the first time in a long time

- a set-aside day for giving thanks... a whole day just for counting the gifts... a whole day to offer up gratitude to the God of gifts

Images of Autumn

2011-11-15T23:56:00.000-05:00

For the beauty of the earth
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies.

Lord of all, to Thee we raise,
This our hymn of grateful praise.

Apple Butter

2011-11-11T14:18:00.000-05:00

So... remember those lovely Virginia apples pictured in my last post? They've been canned! (Not like 'fired' but put in jars as apple butter; some of them, at least)

I got out my trusty mini canning kit, found a recipe for apple butter, and got to work! First I had to weigh the apples...

Then there was the peeling and chopping and cooking. As the apples cooked down, our home filled with the spicy aroma of Autumn.

Once cooked and blended, the hot apple butter was put into 1/2 pint wide mouth jars. The jars were sealed and put into the water bath, and came out beautifully.

Apple butter is one of my favorite things. I love it on toast and English muffins and biscuits. But my favorite thing, when I slip in a little naughty non-vegan item, is a cottage cheese and apple butter sandwich. Pure delight!

Here's the recipe...

Sweet Apple Cider Butter

4 1/2 lbs. apples, peeled, cored, and quartered

1 1/2 cups apple cider

2 1/4 cups sugar (I used less)

1 1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

3/8 tsp. ground cloves

1. Combine apples and apple cider in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft, about 20 minutes.
2. Transfer apple mixture to a food mill or a food processor fitted with a metal blade, working in batches, puree just until a uniform texture is achieved. Do not liquefy. Measure 9 cups of apple puree.
3. Combine apple puree, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in a clean large stainless steel saucepan. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens and holds its shape on a spoon.
4. Prepare stockpot/canner and jars.
5. Ladle hot butter into jars, leaving 1/4" headspace. Remove air bubbles, re-measure headspace. If needed, add more butter to meet recommended headspace. Wipe rim, center lid on jar. Screw ban until fingertip-tight.
6. Process filled jars in boiling water for 15 minutes. Remove stockpot/canner lid. Wait 5 minutes, then remove jars, cool, and store.

This recipe is from the Ball Beginner's Guide to Canning & Recipe Booklet.

This recipe made 8 half pint jars for me, with a bit left over for supper that night!

Autumn Fun...

2011-11-06T18:55:00.000-05:00

Wanting to feel like myself again, I told my husband about the Fall Festival at Five Points Community Farm Market and traveled to Norfolk for an afternoon of fun... a time to let go of the mourning for a bit and breathe the crisp, clean air of Autumn.

We saw so many delicious local and organic goodies, listened to a talented ensemble playing beautiful instruments, sampled Virginia wines and beers, savored a warm and yummy lunch, and just enjoyed being together. Here are a few of the sights...

Saunders Bros. Virginia Apples

Breads from Sugar Plum Bakery

Bright Beets

A Little Music with Lunch


Cookies, Brownies, Marshmallows... yum!

Five Points' Get Fresh Cafe was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!

Virginia Wines

Tom had the Pot Roast, I had the Acorn Squash

With Deep Gratitude

2011-10-10T20:17:00.000-04:00

Over the last month, we have watched my mother slip away day by day. She suffered long and fought hard against the emphysema that took away her ability to breathe easily. Quietly, she passed away on Friday afternoon. A gift, a hard gift, but a true gift from a loving and knowing God.

Offering thanks today for...

- caregivers with deep faith and compassionate hearts

- nurses on the last two shifts of Mom's life with the same name as my own... all she had to do was call my name and someone would be there... God in the tiny details

- being with her in all the days and in those last hours, holding her hand, stroking her hair

- strength not my own in moments not imagined

- husband and children and friends, wrapping their arms around me

- peace that passes all understanding, keeping my heart and mind safe

- such exhaustion that deep sleep comes

- laughter and wisecracks from Mom during the hardest moments

- photos found, moments relived with joy

- the word, "Sweet," used over and over again during the last six weeks by everyone to describe my mother

Edith

1941 - 2011

He's Got This...

2011-09-11T18:50:00.003-04:00

Today these words were presented in the Sunday School hour... precious words from Scripture... words given to me as a gift...

The Wind Ran Out of Breath

Mark 4:35-41 (The Message)

^35-38Late that day he said to them, "Let's go across to the other side."

They took him in the boat as he was. Other boats came along.

A huge storm came up. Waves poured into the boat, threatening to sink it.

And Jesus was in the stern, head on a pillow, sleeping!

They roused him, saying, "Teacher, is it nothing to you that we're going down?"

^39-40Awake now, he told the wind to pipe down and said to the sea,
"Quiet! Settle down!"

The wind ran out of breath; the sea became smooth as glass.

Jesus reprimanded the disciples:
"Why are you such cowards? Don't you have any faith at all?"

⁴¹They were in absolute awe, staggered. "Who is this, anyway?" they asked.

"Wind and sea at his beck and call!"

Jesus, in the boat WITH THEM, in the midst of the storm, sleeping soundly, at peace. Frightened followers wake Him, surprised that He is not fearing for their safety.

But Jesus KNOWS. He knows their trouble, He knows their distress, He is there with them.

And Jesus is, as always, IN CONTROL. He calms the seas for the benefit of His followers, He calms their fears, He calms their hearts.

In the midst of my storms, large and small, Jesus calls to me from Scripture, "I've got this."

Even when the winds continue to blow and the rains soak me to the bone and it seems I might sink, I will trust that He's got this, even this.

Ridin' the Tide

2011-09-03T20:02:00.000-04:00

There's something new in Hampton Roads: LIGHT RAIL! It's called the Tide.

My husband and I grew up in a metro area with access to rail/subway. We became adults and traveled around areas of this country and others where riding the train is THE way to get places. Our children hopped on the train with us to visit parks and museums and festivals and concerts and the zoo. They, too, grew up and visited faraway places and rode the rails there.

And now we can hop the train into the next city here in Hampton Roads!

Today, Husband and I parked our vehicle at the train station, bought our tickets, and waited for the shiny, new light rail train to arrive. It was our first trip on the Tide. I was so excited.

The train arrived and we boarded, finding seats near the front of the train. A family with 2 small children sat near us. I think I was more excited thank the children. In fact, I asked the smallest child, a precious little princess, to jump up and down with me when the train arrived to pick us up!

The passengers were all on the train. The doors closed. Quietly, the train began to move. The ride is SSSOOOOO smooth! As we rode along, we noticed that the light rail planners had incorporated train whistle sounds for when the train passed through suburban areas, and clanging train bell sounds for urban crossings. It was fantastical!

The children (remember, not MY children, but the dear ones of complete strangers!) and I giggled uncontrollably. We noted all the passing scenery as if we'd seen it for the first time. We wondered at the screeching sounds as the train slowly navigated sharp turns. We agreed at every stop along the way that we would not be disembarking here!

Finally, our train station loomed ahead. We had planned a lovely afternoon visit to the Chrysler Museum of Art for lunch and a stroll through the special "Curious George Saves the Day" exhibit. Lunch was delicious: roasted vegetable focaccia with confetti salad for me, smoked salmon and goat cheese wrap with fruit for Husband. Tummies full, we set off in search of a curious little monkey...


Entrance to the exhibit

What we found was the amazing story of Curious George's creators, H. A. and Margret Rey:

"They were both born in Hamburg, Germany, to Jewish families and lived together in Paris from 1936 to 1940. Hours before the Nazis marched into the city in June 1940, the Reys fled on bicycles, carrying drawings for their children’s stories, including one about a mischievous monkey, then named Fifi."

A wonderful exhibit filled with Margret and H. A. Rey's diaries and drawings and letters and, of course, art and drafts for the wonderful books they created. The exhibit concluded with a reading room for children (of all ages... Husband read "Curious George Gets a Medal" to me in that room!).

Tom reading "Curious George Gets a Medal"

We walked the short distance to the train station to head home, through a gracious part of the city. The station, like all the others, is enlivened with art.

At the next stop, we found another small friend who was fascinated with my camera and (with my help) played photographer on the Tide!


Photo: Tide passengers, taken by a tiny new friend

Sweet memories today, and already looking forward to my next ride on the Tide!

Gifts of Grace

2011-08-29T08:18:00.000-04:00

What a week! I have seen the glory of God in amazing ways over the last few days. I have known surprises and unexpected visitors and peaceful gatherings. His grace, His gifts to me...

201. an earthquake, so unusual for our area, showing that He moves mountains

202. unexpected guests, evacuated from their vacation, a son with his wife and furry ones

203. special moments of quiet during a Japanese tea ceremony with a friend

204. friendships, dear ones lifting me in prayer as I lift them

205. another unexpected guest, Hurricane Irene... God is there in the wind and the rain

206. the Lord's protection and provision during the storm, that we never lost power, that we suffered no damage to speak of

207. peace in the storm, deep peace though the winds and rains raged

208. only minor limbs down from all the tall, old trees around us

209. more and more opportunities... seeking His face, desiring His call

210. a new day to glorify God and enjoy Him

Irene's Comin'...

2011-08-25T20:47:00.000-04:00

Pray for us, will you? Irene's comin'... uninvited. She's arriving in the wee hours of Sunday, we think. The weather folk are telling us that this is a 'hundred year storm' and that the name 'Irene' will most likely be retired when this is over. During the last big storm, Hurricane Isabel in 2003, our home was powerless for 9 days. While some areas south of us are evacuating, and the ships are headed to sea to ride out the storm, we have decided to stay put for the time being. But we must be attentive to the needs of my mother so our plans may change.

Pray for us, will you? For peace and safety and full trust in our Lord. For short power outages and no damages or injuries. For protection on every side. And not only for us, but for all those in the path of this powerful storm.

Pray for us, will you? We will be able to feel your prayers and be comforted, I know.

PS - Did I mention that we had an earthquake here in Virginia this week?

Some went off to sea in ships,
      plying the trade routes of the world.
They, too, observed the Lord’s power in action,
      his impressive works on the deepest seas.
He spoke, and the winds rose,
      stirring up the waves.
Their ships were tossed to the heavens
      and plunged again to the depths;
      the sailors cringed in terror.
They reeled and staggered like drunkards
      and were at their wits’ end.
“Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble,
      and he saved them from their distress.
He calmed the storm to a whisper
      and stilled the waves.
What a blessing was that stillness
      as he brought them safely into harbor!
Let them praise the Lord for his great love
      and for the wonderful things he has done for them.
Let them exalt him publicly before the congregation
      and before the leaders of the nation.
Psalm 107:23 - 32

Gifts everywhere...

2011-08-22T08:10:00.000-04:00

Some days I have a difficult time seeing the gifts. Some days my vision is clouded with day-to-day cares, hurts carried when they should be released, a weakened body in a world that prizes strength and productivity. Some days I want to pull the covers over my head and turn in my earthly ID card.

But I am reminded, softly and quietly, of the gifts all around. Gifts peep out of corners and they appear unexpectedly. Gifts come to me in the night and they wake me in the morning. Here are but a few...

191. Living water

192. Scarlett, bringing me a toy when I feel least like joyful play

193. a beautiful painting from a sweet friend

194. work that I so enjoy

195. tending God's garden

196. mountains

197. the Vinedresser, nurturing me to growth, pruning me when I need

198. whispers of Autumn, yet so long away

199. the Word, true, thirst quenching, soul soothing, Spirit-opened

200. waking to a new day, to hope

More August Gifts...

2011-08-08T08:14:00.001-04:00

Quietly, almost imperceptibly, energy and creativity are returning. Tears of joy welling up yesterday in worship, I realized it. New journeys, new ministries are not mine. They are gifts from a creative God. In gratitude...

181. Sunday worship

182. pears from a coworker, put into jars to shine through the winter

183. a strong voice singing out, "It is well with my soul".

184. guitar played quietly in worship

185. again, good air conditioning in this continued heat

186. a surprise cantaloupe ripening in the garden

187. so many new ministries

188. the love that I am given, day after day

189. "and He began to teach them." Matthew 5:2

190. the awe of communion, the sacrifice, the gift, the remembrance

Percy Pear's Canning Scare

2011-08-04T18:53:00.000-04:00

"I have a bad feeling about today."

"I'll hide in the cabinet. No one will ever look for me in here."

"Uh-oh."

"Here we are. Waiting for a trim and a hot bath.

This is a really bad day."

"Oh, joy! I have been saved!"

A sweet lady at my husband's job gave him a bag of pears harvested from her pear tree. He brought them home and today I canned Ginger Pear Preserves. Sweet and delicious with pears, lime, and fresh ginger. And, bless his heart, Percy doesn't realize that he's going into the second batch tomorrow!

When Work Is Joy

2011-08-03T21:46:00.000-04:00

A phrase from my work day...

Words of Grace

A small change in a publication I was working on: change "Assurance of Pardon" to "Words of Grace," he said. A thoughtful pastor. Placing pure and healing words into the ears and hearts of the flock.

Gifts to begin the days of August...

2011-08-01T08:06:00.000-04:00

The gifts are, of course, innumerable. Each moment holds a gift if I have eyes to see. Sometimes the gifts are effervescent with joy and hope, sometimes the gifts are hard and call me to God's rest. But each moment holds a gift. Count them with me. Count them with Ann. Count them with the community of the grateful.

171. The invitation to come, be healed, recline, and share a simple meal - Matthew 14:13-21

172. That Jesus invited even me to this banquet of grace

173. That He invites me to do the same: to invite others to come, to sit, to know, to taste and see that He is good - Psalm 34:8

174. That I have been hugged tight into a community of faith that hears these messages of hope each week from a strong and faithful pastor

175. Mom waking to a birthday marking 70 years

176. A creative daughter providing the sweet wishes for her grandmother's birthday

177. Sunshine and rain and harvests

178. Too many cucumbers

179. New work for the hands of the dearest daughter-in-law

180. A husband who listen and loves through the hard gifts

Week In The Life, Day Seven

2011-07-31T08:36:00.000-04:00

Ah, the last day of this project of my week in photos. Saturday is always a fun day: markets, projects, events, and spending time with the husband...

Week In The LIfe, Day Six

2011-07-31T08:22:00.000-04:00

More photos for my project... Friday's to-doings...

Week In The LIfe, Day Five

2011-07-29T09:23:00.000-04:00

Continuing the "Week In The Life" project, photos from my Thursday of errands and laundry for Mom and household to-doings.

Week In The Life, Day Four

2011-07-28T09:26:00.000-04:00

Last day at work for the week, and date night with the husband (dinner out and a screening of "Forks Over Knives" with guest speaker, Dr. Neal Barnard. His book on reversing diabetes with a plant-based diet changed my life. The last photo is me with Dr. Barnard, all fan/groupie-like)

Week In The Life, Day Three

2011-07-26T22:43:00.000-04:00

Day Three images for the Week In The Life project...

Week In The Life, Day Two

2011-07-25T22:39:00.000-04:00

Another day in my week, in photos...

Gifts I'm Pondering

2011-07-25T08:08:00.000-04:00

161. That God is mindful of me, even me

162. That God provides so abundantly

163. Rain, sweet rain

164. Rest

165. Creative and joyful work

166. Learning to knit again... tiny prayer squares, but still knitting

167. Ali Edwards' "Week In The Life" project, keeping me in each moment, getting me thinking about my papers and journaling again

168. Opportunity to lead a new group of women... seeking the Lord's wisdom for this

169. Always Tom

170. Being able to hold my tongue, to endure, to be pained, yet come out on the other side

Week In The Life, Day One

2011-07-25T07:56:00.000-04:00

So, day one of Ali's "Week In The Life" project is over... the photos:

Joining Ali Edwards' "Week In The Life" Project

2011-07-23T15:25:00.000-04:00

Needing to kickstart my creativity a bit. Needing to fondle my papers and sniff my glues again. Needing to begin... this seems like the perfect way:

"A seven-day documentary project, Week In The Life is an annual opportunity to capture the simple everyday details of your life with photos and words. The albums I’ve created using the basics outlined below are some of my most treasured in that they are wonderfully true representations of my family’s life at a particular point in time. From the mundane to the profound, it’s those simple little everyday moments that I treasure most.

If you choose to embark on this project, especially for the first time, I encourage you to read through the comments from previous years. There are many suggestions, answers, additional information, etc. that can be found within the comment sections of each post. And remember, there’s no right or wrong way to approach this album.

It’s an amazing adventure. Consider yourself invited."

from Ali Edwards' website, Week In The Life project

A week in the life

documenting the details of real, everyday life

through words & photos

July 25 - 31, 2011

aliedwards.com

In the Garden

2011-07-21T10:48:00.000-04:00

It's mid-July and the sun is shining and it's been HOT! Two days last week I got into my Jeep at 1:30pm at the temperature reading was over 100 degrees. HOT! We are so thankful for good air conditioning, our rainbarrel, and tall trees for shade.

The garden continues to produce beautifully. We've had lots of trouble with squash bugs and stink bugs, but my super-hero husband battles for the good of our harvest and we've been able to save the zucchini, the butternut squash, and the HUGE pumpkin plant that grew from a surviving seed in our compost pile. This one pumpkin on the vine is now about 14" across and about 6 " high!

There is another vine in the front yard (yes, we are true farmers in the middle of suburbia!) that has a nice little pumpkin growing as well.

Eggplant and peppers continue to thrive in the heat. We've been roasting and grilling the eggplant... YUMMY! Cucumbers must be picked continually or they swell huge while your back is turned!

The amazing taste of fresh tomatoes is indescribable. We planted 13 varieties this year, many heirloom. We've lost one or two, but the rest continue to bless us with goodness.

And then there are the garden visitors. We have so many little friends that visit us almost daily to inspect the plants for pests, to pet Scarlett, and to exclaim with glee, "There's another cucumber under here!" We offer little garden lessons, and Husband shared tomato plants with a couple of the small friends.

We also have other guests: lovely finches feasting on sunflowers, writing spiders journaling in their webs, and busy bees going about their work.

This garden is a safe place for me. A place for quiet meditation, a place for prayer, a place for nourishing the soul as well as the body. What's a delight to you in your world today?

What's in that jar?

2011-07-15T18:04:00.000-04:00

So, I've become obsessed with canning. At least it's a healthy habit. But my cozy kitchen in my little ranch home was becoming a storage facility for jars of all sorts. Today, I decided to take my kitchen back!

I gathered all the supplies to label the jars before putting them away. Labels should be pretty, right?

I had some lovely cardstock that I'd marbelized a few years ago, so I pulled that out and loaded my printer with it. I set up a simple document with 4 columns and typed out the names of the items I'd canned and the year (...2011...). Then I hit "print". Voila!

I used my tag punch to punch out each tag. (Tip: if you put the punch down on the work surface upside down and then insert paper to be punched, you can see exactly where to place the paper for the best alignment inside the punch shape. Then just press down with equal pressure to punch through the paper.) I like to use the 1/8" hole punch for the tag's hole... it's petite and the string doesn't look 'lost' in this smaller hole. Then I attached each tag to the appropriate jar with green twine to coordinate with the marbelized color.

When all the tags were attached, the jars were ready for their spot in the pantry. Don't they look pretty all lined up? I know that in the deep of winter, not only will these canned goodies be delicious, but the jars and tags will give me a smile when I open the pantry door!

Now, on to blackberries and plums and peaches...

Counting the gifts...

2011-07-11T08:34:00.000-04:00

151. birthdays and birthday wishes and birthday cake made with love by a precious daughter... The gift of arriving safely at another birthday

152. working alongside Tom in the garden, rejoicing at the harvests, warring with the pests

153. art

154. farm market friends

155. Beatitudes opening up in new ways

156. those treasured photos, unearthed while organizing

157. memories made

158. retreating to the Word when life is too much

159. the strong people in all the shanty towns of this world, cleaning up, making art, cooking life, smiling through

160. His grace

Today...

2011-07-09T14:58:00.000-04:00

It's my birthday. I've had a lovely day. Husband and I are planning a lovely evening. We're making more plans for the coming weeks with grown children and with Mom.

More than the 'plans' we make, I am awed by the plans my God has for me. As the days unfold, He shows me His mercy and grace and care in new ways. I am so grateful for this life, for the days with loved ones, for the days to come.

Though the time and trials are beginning to show on my face, it's a joy to have arrived safely at 48!

Grab hold and enjoy each gifted day. Do what you can while you can. Praise the Lord in all things, the hard and the soft things. Look forward to and treasure each birthday.

Canning and Sunflowers and Farmers Market

2011-06-25T21:04:00.000-04:00

When I leave work on Wednesday afternoon, and my weekend begins, I eagerly anticipate the 4 days ahead. What shall I do? Where shall I go? The choices in today's world are endless, but my heart returns to the homey things, the rustic things, the simple joys.

This week our garden ripened with so many good things to eat! There is an abundance of pickling cucumbers, some we've eaten cut into tender spears with supper, some we've mixed in an old-fashioned salad. Since I've started canning with the gift Trista gave me, I thought I'd try making pickles... bread and butter pickles! The sliced cucumbers were mixed with onions and garlic and pickling salt, then left to rest in the fridge under crushed ice for several hours. When removed from the fridge and drained, I added them to a boiled mixture of vinegar, sugar, turmeric, mustard seed, and celery seed. The hot mixture was ladled into sterile jars and processed in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Soon we had several pints of delicious bread and butter pickles to enjoy!

There are so many other things bursting to life in our gardens. We're loving the sunflowers and the bee and butterfly garden filled with daisy, bee balm, butterfly bush, coneflower, and lamb's ear.

Most Saturday mornings, we venture out to the Old Beach Farmers Market with Scarlett. We do much of our shopping at the farmers markets these days. Today we saw many familiar faces, some furry, and we took in the sights and smells of the earth's bounty.

Scarlett and Sage... Sage has grown a bit!

Tasha's Own Soaps


Weeping Radish

At the New Earth Farm booth

Beautiful blossoms

Flowers and herbs and garlic


Cromwell blackberries

So, in the end, I didn't jet off to Paris or write the great novel or change the world,

but it has been a beautiful weekend,

filled with the good gifts of God,

filled with sweetness and love and smiles.

Wishing for you the simple joys this weekend!

Some photos, finally...

2011-06-21T19:36:00.000-04:00

Massanetta Springs is beautiful. It's a rural-ish retreat, tucked neatly in the shadow of Harrisonburg. There are lovely old trees and ripening wild berries and butterflies and thundershowers. And each Spring, I travel there to hear the voices of my sisters in faith... whispers of God-awe, laughter released after being so long imprisoned by daily life, prayer songs lifting to heaven, and re-awakened creativity breathed out. It is a joyous time of refreshment and inspiration and fellowship. I am too grateful, surprised by the gift each year.


sunrise at Massanetta Springs


thanks for the directions!

a few of the banners from across the Mid-Atlantic

Sondra and Cathy, the planners


the songbook

singing from the hymnal

Cathy addresses the gathering

Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer

smiling face, knitting hands

George is a great driver... really

all aboard!

the path to Steele Chapel

inside the Chapel

bridge after a Spring rain


in the Prayer Center

in the Prayer Center

friends quietly gathered in the Prayer Center

sharing stories from the quilt workshop

Providence women in the PW logo


sweet friends on our last morning at Massanetta

Rejoice and be glad....

Matthew 5:12a

Art Saves...

2011-06-18T17:35:00.000-04:00

...and heals

...and speaks

...and moves

...and blesses.

This book has become my newest treasure.

Frayed...

2011-06-16T14:59:00.000-04:00

I'm feeling a bit frayed today. From the verb, "fray":

fray

verb

transitive verb

a : to wear (as an edge of cloth) by or as if by rubbing : fret b : to separate the threads at the edge of

That's it. I'm feeling worn around the edges, rubbed threadbare by the dis-ease and car trouble and sadness and busy-ness of life on this earth. Like bits of me are hanging like loose threads as I try to keep everything tidy and running smoothly.

So it must be time for a little break. A little tea, a quiet place, a doggie by my side. And then I will open the Pages of healing and peace and joy. I will drink deep the Living Waters. I will be refreshed by the Word. I'll see you all when my frayed edges have been smoothed by the Maker.

Home Again...

2011-06-13T17:04:00.000-04:00

Thanking the Lord today for His faithfulness, for safe travel, for all the huge and tiny gifts over the last few days. He has brought me home, to my little house and my loving family and my abundant garden and new ministries He has called me to. In Ann's words: All is grace.


Rainbow after the storms at Massanetta Springs

Four Days Away...

2011-06-08T23:08:00.000-04:00

I am going to be away for four days at a yearly gathering of women in the mid-Atlantic region to study, to sing, to pray, to laugh, to fellowship, to refresh. It's a time of recharging our batteries in the wonder of God's creation.

I humbly ask your prayers... for my family while I am absent from them, for safe travel, for spiritual refreshment, and for me to glorify God in the workshops I am to present.

Peace and Joy to you and yours until I return.

Photos are from the 2010 Gathering.

Bottle Tree... and more

2011-06-03T12:15:00.000-04:00

A few years back, the hubby and I went to the Mid-Atlantic Home and Garden Show. That particular year there were whimsical garden displays featuring colorful tires and a Volkswagen... pure fun. We attended an intimate workshop with Felder Rushing on Slow Gardening and were introduced to Bottle Trees. It was love at first sight (the Bottle Trees, not Felder, though he is lots of fun!) and I knew that someday I would have my own Bottle Tree.

Never heard of them? Yeah, totally Southern. Totally NOT acceptable in many of the neighborhoods in Hampton Roads. We, however, live in a cozy little working-class neighborhood where I garden like crazy and hang my laundry out in the sun and light luminaries along the walkway for trick-or-treaters and generally play in my yard.

Bless his heart, Tom had been collecting bottles since that garden show. We now had a spare, if slightly warped, 4x4 post. We have a beautifully red Japanese Maple with a perfectly indented spot in the foliage, right in the front. Tom pre-drilled holes in the post and attached long, heavy nails. We checked the look with some blue, green and clear bottles.

Hhhmmmm... I think I like it! We finished it off with a cute white birdhouse as a finial. Our outdoor dining table is nearby and we'll enjoy sitting there and watching light play on the colored glass.

Well, that was fun! What to do with leftover bottles??? How 'bout further exploration of Southern recycling efforts? Tom decided that there is never enough room for tomatoes in the veggie garden. He thought we needed one more tomato bed... in the front... bordered with buried bottles. He didn't even take the labels off!

What's next? Maybe recycled truck tires, painted white, filled with geraniums, just like Grandma's house!

Find your joy, recyclers and gardeners... garden like no one is watching!!!

Gratitude and Memories

2011-05-30T11:39:00.000-04:00

141. the service, dedication, sacrifice, and honor of my husband, my father-in-law, and so many others in the military... some gave years, some gave parts of themselves, some gave their lives

142. colored glass sparkling in the sunlight

143. familiar smiles and laughter at the season's first farmers market

144. ripening tomatoes

145. the wheelchair that allows her more time out and about

146. creating with a husband too treasured for words

147. the day when swords are beaten into plowshares, the hope of unlearning the act of war

148. a daughter's thoughtfulness, caring for me and nurturing the me I hope to be

149. the memories of Daddy in the garden, on the road, working outside, eating bologna and cheese, telling again and again the favorite stories of his memories

150. the places and people and things we've seen all over the world, the opportunities given in exchange for the years of service, that one of those ladies we met along the way prayed for me to know the Savior

Pickled Beets and Garden Peeks

2011-05-29T14:23:00.000-04:00

Organic beets, check. Apron, check. Petite and adorable canning kit, check. Here's an overview of my latest adventure in suburban homesteading:

I chose a recipe from Simply in Season for pickled beets:

Grabbed some organic beets, cooked as directed and sliced them:


organic beets


beets cooking

sliced beet beauty

I had just enough to fill two pint canning jars, which I processed in the hot water bath and then left to cool. The next day the seal was perfect and now these little pickled pretties have joined the Strawberry Lemon Marmalade in my canning successes!


ready to process


canned pickled beets

This weekend we visited a couple of our local farmers markets: Farmers Market at the J and Old Beach Farmers Market. We had a great time (and so did our dog, Scarlett!) and scored eggs and bacon from Full Quiver Farm; Beer Brats from Weeping Radish; red potatoes, May peas, crowder peas, peaches and blueberries from Cullipher Farms; lettuce from New Earth Farm; white grits from Wade's Mill and pimento goat cheese from Goats R Us; vegan biscotti from Beach Biscotti; chocolate crumb cake from Perked Up Cafe; and the hubby enjoyed a breakfast of fresh coffee and cheese biscuit. It's important to us to spend every dollar we can locally or regionally, supporting small farmers, agriculture, and families.

some of our market finds

We continue to harvest greens, onions, herbs, and strawberries from our garden. So many other good things are growing in the warm sun. Yesterday we noticed the first tomatoes beginning to turn... I can't wait!

beginning to ripen


cherry tomatoes ripening

Been meditating on this verse today, giving God the troubles of this world for His wise plan to work out, working my own earth in quiet prayer. Blessings to you!

The Lord will mediate between nations
      and will settle international disputes.
   They will hammer their swords into plowshares
      and their spears into pruning hooks.
   Nation will no longer fight against nation,
      nor train for war anymore.

Isaiah 2:4

Robert was right... again (Twin Oaks Sausage)

2011-05-26T10:03:00.000-04:00

My son is so smart. (I know, your children are fabulous, too!) He really is. And he is usually right. I discovered a while back that he's right about thrifting. He was right about the repairs needed on our keepsake Suzuki Samurai. He's always been right about staying calm, extending grace to others, enjoying life.

This weekend I found one more thing he was right about: Twin Oaks Vegetarian Sausage. We've been using another brand faithfully to make "sausage" gravy and "sausage" patties and "sausage" & potato hash. It was easily found and easy to work with and easy to keep using.

We tried Twin Oaks Breakfast Style Vegetarian Sausage this weekend to make hash with onions, purple potatoes and sweet potatoes, served with homemade biscuits and sliced tomatoes (from Carolina). It was delicious! Just the right amount of spice and heat, perfect sausage-y texture, and SO MUCH BETTER than the other brand (which now seems like bland mush in comparison). We found it at Organic Food Depot.

Robert, bless him, told us about Twin Oaks outside Richmond some time ago. From the Twin Oaks website:

   "Twin Oaks is an egalitarian, resource-sharing eco-village. Since 1967, people have come to the fields and forests of Twin Oaks to share life and work, and participate in a secular society embracing cooperation, nonviolence, equality, and ecology. That’s more than 40 years of good vibes. . .

   Our tofu business generates much of Twin Oaks income. Members who want to make tofu volunteer to be involved in the process, and often devote a large part of their time to it. We take pride in making a really good healthy food in an eco-friendly atmosphere. We eat a lot of our own tofu, too… Every day! So we are very focused on quality and consistency in our tofu and soyfoods. The balance of Community income is made by Twin Oaks Hammocks, indexing books, and helping in an heirloom seed business run by Acorn (another intentional community located nearby). We’re self-supporting economically and share all income. Our businesses are all run as worker-owned cooperatives."

So, vegetarian, delicious, perfect texture, local, sustainable, intentional. Twin Oaks is now permanently on our shopping list!

PS - Robert was also right about his new project. It really is a beautiful thing:

Our New BFF...

2011-05-23T17:01:00.003-04:00


Rainbarrel Love

After much pondering and hand-wringing and trips to ogle its beauty at Green Alternatives, we 'took the plunge'...
into rainbarrel stewardship!

Tom set it up in no time, and after a couple of Spring showers, IT WAS FULL OF WATER! Turn the handle, water for the garden flows out, free and without chemical additives and, well, free! It's positioned on the side of the house in the vegetable garden, so we just fill up the watering cans and refresh the plants.

Here are a few garden photos from this weekend:


The Veggie Garden


Through the gate


Cucumbers and Trellis

Yellow Squash


First Banana Pepper


Yummy Tomatoes


Upside Down Tomatoes


Daylily

Though we wander in this world that is not our true home, we are called to be stewards of its goodness. Take care of your little plot of this earth, no matter how small. Dig and water and nurture. Grow something. Enjoy its freshness on your plate. Share it with others.

"Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce."

Jeremiah 29:5

Grateful for these Gifts...

2011-05-23T07:53:00.000-04:00

131. The protection of this cozy home on windy, stormy days

132. Fresh, organic food... right outside my door

133. A husband, "farming" with me on this little plot of suburbia

134. A refreshing visit from sweet son and daughter-in-law

135. A passion rekindled, a ministry forming

136. The Word, alive and true

137. The way the bed feels at the end of a long and difficult day, pulling me in and wrapping me up in comfort and rest

138. The public library, filled with so many new things to learn for free

139. A good report from the doctor

140. Strength enough for this day

Sweet Sunday Surprises...

2011-05-22T21:04:00.000-04:00

We have lots of children in our neighborhood. They are fascinated with our vegetable and flower gardens. They love to pet and kiss our dog, Scarlett, and she, sensing their innocence, patiently allows it. They like to knock on our door. Alot. Just to say "Hi!" or "Can we pet Scarlett?" or "Can we visit the garden?" Alot. Sometimes I'm in the middle of cooking or working or even napping. Sometimes I wonder why their parents let them knock on doors. Sometimes I get frustrated and sigh when I hear the knock... again.

Today, I opened the door to go out and found this blooming display of love on my storm door...

Flowers and Autographs from our neighborhood children

My heart melted and I asked forgiveness for my sighing in the past. I remembered that a couple of these neighbor children have a precious Christian mom expecting her sixth child. I remembered that one of these children is outside most waking hours because "Mom says I need to play outside". I remembered that our children are grown and that my husband and I have time and love.

I remembered singing in church, and praying that God would show me the neighbors He has chosen for me to serve.

We brought Scarlett out to the front porch and we spent an hour with these little ones, telling them about our flowers and our antique school desk and cultivator and milk can. I answered all their questions and asked some of my own, drawing them into simple conversation.

And I received an spontaneous hug with a quiet, "I love you, Miss Donna".

Jesu, Jesu,
Fill us with Your love,

show us how to serve
The neighbors we have from You.

Thomas S. Colvin

1969

Thinking About Shortness of Breath...

2011-05-19T17:25:00.000-04:00

There's a hidden side to Flannel Jammies Farm. There is unwellness here, progressing disease, robbing my mother of her very breath. Mom is weak, winded with the slightest activity, sometimes confused and often frustrated, and unable to work as she is so used to doing, keeping everything bright, spotless, and running smoothly for all of us. She was back in the emergency room this week, terribly short of breath.

I cannot know the feeling. It has only happened to me once or twice in my life. My mother lives this way, laboring over each breath, her body unable to make the needed oxygen exchange. I cannot know, I cannot imagine.

But is that really true? What about the times that I am 'breathless' in my spiritual walk?

The Creator made a world filled with living creatures, bones and muscles and miraculous inner workings, by the word of His BREATH.

By the word of the LORD the heavens were made,

And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.

Psalm 33:6

The Creator made man. But it wasn't until He gave His BREATH that man was made alive.

And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground,

and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life;

and man became a living being.

Genesis 2:7

Ezekiel tells of dry bones being brought to life by the BREATH. The Spirit, wind or BREATH, controlled the waters in the Old Testament, filled believers in the New Testament, and gives comfort and illumination and guidance today. The Word is filled with such references.

When I don't ~~have~~ make time to study the Word and to pray, I become breathless. When I walk in disobedience to my loving Father's commands, I become breathless. When I tear down one of God's own with careless and hurtful words, I become breathless.

This form of breathlessness leaves me stressed, struggling, twisting in God's arms in confusion and anger. This form of breathlessness leaves me weak, unable to function at a normal level and easily 'winded'. This form of breathlessness renders me useless for His good work, prepared just for me. Maybe I can, in this way, try to understand Mom's shortness of breath.

I pray that I will stay close to the Breath-giver, being filled with His Word, molded by His will. I pray that He will give me tenderness and compassion, that He will use me to comfort and care for the breathless.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,

fill me with life anew,

that I may love what thou dost love,

and do what thou wouldst do.

So Much To Be Thankful For...

2011-05-16T07:48:00.000-04:00

121. An honest pastor, speaking the heart, speaking His Word, speaking Truth

122. Tea

123. Cloudy, gray mornings

124. Quiet reflective moments in this too, too busy world

125. The opportunity to play dress up

126. An unexpected day with an treasured friend

127. Fresh, local, organic strawberries, bursting with the bright sweetness of Spring

128. Finding Him in all the moments

129. My own "thorns in the flesh", calling me to my knees, to slow down, to rest, to be still

130. Always Tom

Canning local strawberries...

2011-05-14T21:43:00.001-04:00

NEWS FLASH:

It's Strawberry Season in Virginia Beach!!!

I picked up some delicious, ripe, juicy, red-to-the-middle strawberries from Cullipher Farms. Did I mention that the strawberries are organic. Yeah. Organic. Local. Deliciousness.

For Mother's Day, my sweet daughter decided to help me further the dream by getting me a precious Ball Home Canning Discovery Kit. My height (5') and my health (another topic altogether) make it difficult for me to reach and lift things like a full canning rack from a pot of boiling water. This little canning kit is perfect! It's green, which is adorable, and it only holds 3 pint jars... just right for me!

So we got to work. I found this recipe on the Ball website for Strawberry Lemon Marmalade:

Strawberry Lemon Marmalade Makes about 7 (8 oz) half pints

1/4 cup thinly slice lemon peel (about 2 large)
4 cups crushed strawberries (about 4 1-lb containers)
1 Tbsp lemon juice
6 Tbsp Ball® RealFruit™ Classic Pectin
6 cups sugar
7 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE lemon peel and water to cover in a 6- or 8-quart saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and boil for 5 minutes, until peel is softened. Drain and discard liquid. Return peel to pan.
3.) ADD strawberries and lemon juice to peel and mix well. Gradually stir in pectin. Bring mixture to a full rolling that can not be stirred down, over high heat, stirring constantly.
4.) ADD entire measure of sugar, stirring to dissolve. Return mixture to a full rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim off foam if necessary.
5.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

How does one crush strawberries? I wasn't sure, so I cut off the stems and leaves from each berry and then cut them into smaller pieces. Then, in batches, I put them into a rectangular dish and crushed them with the Southern woman's multi-tool: the potato masher!

Slightly over 4 cups = 8 half pints

After following the directions for mixing and cooking the strawberry mixture, steps 2 - 4 of the recipe, we were ready to fill the jars. Watch out... hot strawberry goo can splatter and burn! Trista brought home the CUTEST squatty-little-wide-mouth-half-pint jars for this project. We used a funnel and filled the jars, checking the headspace as directed.

After cleaning the rims and placing the lids and rings, we placed the filled jars, 2 at a time, in the green handled basket and lowered them into the boiling water. Time moves SSSOOOOOOO slowly when you're canning for the first time! After 10 minutes, we lifted the basket from the boiling water.

So after letting the jars cool and waiting the appropriate 24 hours and checking the seal, we had the most delicious Strawberry Lemon Marmalade EVER. It was sweet, total ripe strawberry goodness with a crisp lemon finish. YUM! One jar out of the 8 we made did not seal properly, so that jar is OURS and is in the fridge to be used now. (I'm hoping some will be left for my breakfast toast before worship tomorrow.)

We had some tonight on top of pound cake, topped with additional fresh organic berries and whipped cream. What a wonderful way to end the day!

Go ahead. Pick some local and organic fruit. Bring it home and preserve it. Give it to friends. Open a jar in the deep midwinter and bask in the warm, sunny memories. Simple blessing... great joy.

Garden To-Doings...

2011-05-12T09:38:00.000-04:00

"Science has never drummed up quite as effective a tranquilizing agent

as a sunny spring day."

~W. Earl Hall

I lose time in the garden. My shoulders mysteriously become detached from my earlobes and fall into their normal position. My jaw releases and a silly smile plays on my lips. My heart slows and my breathing becomes deeper. The stress, the challenges, the brokenness fall away as I putter and chat softly with the Vinedresser. It is quiet time perfection for me.

Yesterday's garden 'chapel time' revealed such sweet surprises...


Early Girls coming along nicely

Upside Down Tomato - no need for a special planting device; an old pot will do to amaze the neighbors

Cherry Tomatoes in bright clusters


More Tomatoes!!!

Tiny Yellow Squash


More Yellow Squash

Peppers Blooming


More Peppers

Joi Choi... great in stir fry!

Zucchini and Onions

Strawberries... most of the ripe ones were picked and eaten by neighborhood children who climbed the fence into the garden. I think they see our garden as a glorious green wonderland!

And finally, my favorite flower, the white rose

We have so many other goodies: herbs and eggplant and still some asparagus and greens and ... well, you see where I'm going with this.

We're continuing to add compost and grass clippings to the beds to nourish and keep moisture in while suppressing weeds. The flowers are blooming all around, bringing bees and butterflies and even a hummingbird to the garden. Scarlett, of course, checks the garden progress several times a day, chasing any squirrels or bunnies stopping by for a snack. It is tiring work for her!

Thanks for visiting... come through the gate anytime, or just climb the fence like the neighborhood small people do!

Gratitude in Early May

2011-05-09T08:00:00.001-04:00

Spring seems the season of surprise and hope, when the whole world leafs out and smiles with blossoms...

Thanking my Lord for

111. this man marrying me 29 years ago

112. thoughtful gifts

113. early morning sounds through the window, taking me back to campground memories

114. cake

115. again the Word

116. the struggles and pain and sadness that keep me seeking His goodness and wisdom

117. a new pump for the garden, old school

118. the children I have been blessed to mother

119. lovely old towns filled with quaint shops and Southern charm and blooming beauty

120. memories of Daddy

Grateful...

2011-04-25T08:02:00.000-04:00

There are so many gifts that have nothing to do with what I have, and everything to do with what He gave. There are no photos vibrant enough to enhance the list. There are no real words this side of heaven to describe the joy.

102. God's love to me, a blemished lamb

103. God's plan throughout time for my good

104. The sweet, small whispers throughout my day, guiding me, teaching me

105. The Word, true and ageless

106. The moments of clarity and illumination in study, quietly gifted to me by the Holy Spirit

107. Jesus, coming as a tiny human to save an entire world

108. Jesus, walking among the broken and flawed, teaching and sharing and healing and loving

109. Jesus, the Man, accused, humiliated, rejected, tortured, crushed beneath the sin of the world, yet obedient until death

110. Jesus, the King, risen, glorious, coming again for me

Easter Heart Cry

2011-04-24T20:48:00.000-04:00

I want to know Christ

and experience the mighty power

that raised Him from the dead.

I want to suffer with Him,

sharing in His death,

so that one way or another

I will experience the resurrection from the dead!

I don’t mean to say

that I have already achieved these things

or that I have already reached perfection.

But I press on to possess that perfection

for which Christ Jesus

first possessed me.

Philippians 3:10-12

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2011-04-23T23:37:00.000-04:00

A quick Spring update - - The vegetable garden is mostly in and we are blessed with green growth and the feel of rich earth in our hands.

Our first tomato of the season!


Tomatoes


Goat with heirloom tomatoes and onions


Cilantro and tomatoes


Basil

Eggplant


Black Cherry and Red Pear tomatoes with lettuces and Swiss Chard

Peppers


Radishes

Here are a few shots of our other Spring beds...

My favorite Iris


Bee and Butterfly border outside veggie garden

Hyacinth in the daylily

Daisy and Bee Balm

Vegetable garden inside the fence


Gerbera Daisy... a gift from Trista

Vinca Vine, or Periwinkle


Outrageous Azalea

Turtles chatting under the crape myrtle

Verbena

Front porch bed


Birdy Chapel

Hawthorne

Rose

Wishing you and yours a blessed and joyful Easter

from Flannel Jammies Farm!

What to do with radishes...

2011-04-20T16:08:00.000-04:00

We've had an especially good harvest of radishes this season. We succession planted Easter Egg Radish seeds, and we've been enjoying them in salads and we've cooked the radish tops with kale, Swiss chard, and spinach for a lovely side dish of greens. But still there are radishes in the garden.

I recently read a blog post by Tracey at Life in Sugar Hollow about something she'd discovered: radish butter. What a crazy idea!!! And I was growing these beautiful red, purple, magenta, and white radishes right outside! I used this same recipe from The Splendid Table, except I substituted Earth Balance sticks for the dairy butter.

It looks creamy and delicious and I can't wait for supper!!!!

The Sweetest Gift...

2011-04-18T11:56:00.000-04:00

Today I am thankful for, above all else, my husband. He has been my love, my life, my support, my guide, my standard these many years. His heart is great and tender and filled with the love of Christ. He is pure gifting from the Lord, and I am so very grateful.

101. Tom, on his birthday. I love you, my sweetness.

Growing and Eating REALLY Local

2011-04-17T22:16:00.002-04:00

My family and I feel strongly about buying local, eating local. Fresher and healthier food, organically grown by farmers we've met. Supporting with our dollar 'votes' small local farmers. Taking it one step further, what could be more local than our own garden? Over the last 10 years at this little suburban house on 1/5 acre, we've gardened year round, stepping right outside our door for a fresh salad or veggies for the grill or the perfect herbal compliment. Nutritious and delicious.

Some (ok, most) of my friends think I'm a little strange. I mean, we live in the middle of a bustling city center. I'm forty-something in overalls, giddy over increasing worm population in the compost, trying repeatedly to get them to try grilled eggplant or zucchini pastries. Some have asked questions: what do you grow? how do you grow all those varieties? do you really eat what you grow?

Here we go:

This is the garden for 2011.

Tomatoes: Brandywine, Mountain Pride, Lemon Boy, Early Girl, Super Sweet 100 (2), Pineapple Hawaiian, Green Zebra, Cherokee Green, Mortgage Lifter, Red Pear, and Black Cherry. Not on the plan are Better Bush and another Lemon Boy (grown upside down) and a Cherokee Purple.

Peppers: Cubanelle (3), Bell Boy (3), Jalapeno, Anaheim, Banana.

Yellow Crookneck Squash and Zucchini.

Eggplant: Nubia and Nadia.

Cucumber: Pickling and Diva.

Asparagus. Joy Choi. Easter Egg Radish. Onions.

Earlier plantings included kale, Swiss Chard, lettuces, onions and spinach. We've been enjoying salads, sauteed greens, kale and bean soup, and orzo with lemon and greens for much of the late Winter/early Spring. Tonight we had a beautiful salad of oak leaf and red leaf lettuces, Swiss chard, spinach, radish and chives (with the addition of carrots not from our garden) to accompany the supper pasta and locally baked 6-grain bread. YUM!

Herbs: Cilantro, Basil, Chives, Dill, Sage, Rosemary, Thyme, Mint, Lemon Balm, Lemon Grass, Borage.

These are mostly grown in raised beds, 4' x 4' and 2' x 4', built by my sweet husband. Scarlett keeps watch over the progress.

We've been making compost for a year now and spread our first batch on the garden this Spring. (Thank you, Cathy, for the composter!) We try to companion plant and intersperse borage and marigold and complimentary herbs. We have a bee and butterfly bed just on the other side of the fence from the veggies: bee balm, vitex, black-eyed Susan, butterfly bush, lamb's ear, daisy, purple coneflower, sedum. We've created a National Wildlife Federation Wildlife Habitat on our little plot of suburbia.

I am so thankful for a little piece of earth to till, for riotous varieties of seeds and seedlings, for just picked goodness.

Then God said, "I've given you
      every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth
   And every kind of fruit-bearing tree,
      given them to you for food.
   To all animals and all birds,
      everything that moves and breathes,
   I give whatever grows out of the ground for food."
      And there it was.

God looked over everything he had made;
      it was so good, so very good!
   It was evening, it was morning—
   Day Six.

Genesis 1:29-31

Live in the Light

2011-04-14T20:08:00.000-04:00

Arise, shine;

For your light has come!

And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.

Isaiah 60:1

Gifts for Counting...

2011-04-11T08:02:00.000-04:00

91. the book of Isaiah, filled with promises and hope and springs of water for the thirsty

92. warming sunshine

93. Mountain Pride and Lemon Boy and Brandywine tomato plants

94. healing and strength enough for each day

95. Trista's muffins

96. Robert's phone call on a Sunday afternoon

97. quiet answers to prayer cries in the middle of the night

98. reliable power for cooking, for heating, for cooling, for washing... for the extravagance of comfort

99. photo memories

100. always Tom

Quiet Moments at Work...

2011-04-09T19:53:00.001-04:00

The sweetness of it surprises me. God's great faithfulness, providing an opportunity to work in a creative and inspiring place. I'm so very thankful...

Just Seven Gifts...

2011-04-04T17:31:00.000-04:00

Today, it's hard, counting gifts. I feel so broken. Flailing, wild-eyed, in need of rest and healing.

It shows on my face. It pours out in my words.

Just Seven Gifts? And Ann provides a sweet and lovely mini journal to write them in? Can I stop struggling in His arms long enough to count them today? Can His quiet voice and song of Love still me?

If I but ask...

1. Time with a son and his wife, full of life and gentleness and artistry

2. New additions to the gardens, planted and watered

3. Tom's unfailing love

4. Good words from doctors treating my mother

5. Sunshine and warmth and the blessed hope of Spring

6. Overalls, too big with frayed hems

7. His arms around me, holding me still, shushing my struggles, calling me to His rest

A Visit from the Granddogs...

2011-04-01T19:17:00.000-04:00

Our sweet granddogs, Pickle and Guinness, are visiting for the weekend. What a blessing it is to have these furry ones in our home, bringing us love and laughter. They are having a great time with us and our precious Scarlett, but it can be tiring! Sometimes, a quick nap is just what's needed...

Enjoy your weekend!

Bright Gifts on a Dreary Monday...

2011-03-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

81. New glasses to better see the beauty of God's word and creation

82. Tart, crunchy pickles

83. Spending a Sunday afternoon with my daughter

84. Fresh kale and Swiss chard from the garden, bringing health to the body

85. Caring doctors for my mother

86. A warm and lovely place to attend worship each week

87. Flannel sheets when the Spring weather goes into hiding

88. So many generous hearts, reaching out to disaster victims

89. The love of learning new things

90. Again, the fragrant lilacs

Signs of Spring on a Cold Saturday...

2011-03-26T20:48:00.001-04:00

Just as I was getting used to working in the garden, planning for Springtime diversions, and swapping my tired winter clothing for Spring-y pieces in my closet, the cold returned. And there's a chance of a wintry mix in the morning!

Blessed with a positive outlook and the love of a faithful Lord (and a very patient family!), I continue to look toward warmer weather and Easter joy. I no longer have little ones at home, but a little seasonal cheer does every soul good. So here's a look at some of today's sprinklings...

Doorway Greetings: A ribbon wreath created by a dear friend and a tiny Easter banner

Signs of Spring Buffet

Egg Cup... we dyed and decorated these blown-out eggs last year

One Egg Cracked Open... and look what came out!

Primitive Bunny Reading Stories... on the rocker from my father-in-law's childhood

Spring Day on Flannel Jammies Farm

2011-03-22T17:49:00.001-04:00


Asparagus peeking through


Radish seeds sprouting in the garden

Rose bushes

Japanese Maple budding

Blooming Rosemary


Lilacs in full bloom and fragrance


Beautyberry coming back


Hibiscus, too


Fairy garden


Goat in the greens


Bee Balm


Daisies a-plenty


Bright Forsythia


Succulent pot


Hostas return


Violet and Hyacinth


Hydrangea


Dogwood branch


Dogwood Buds


Variegated Hydrangea... my favorite


Daylilly spilling out of a crock


Dogwood Branch and Birdbath


Boxwood and Hawthorne... and an old mower/cultivator

What's coming up on your 'farm' on this fine Spring day?

Gifts I'm Thankful For...

2011-03-21T17:52:00.000-04:00

71. Finding inexpensive cardigans for the in-between season

72. Amazing inspiration at a Spring craft marketplace

73. Cranberry beans in the crockpot

74. Buds and blooms all around our gardens

75. Tender asparagus spears, straight from our garden to our salad

76. Friends sharing sweet stories

77. Granddogs coming to visit

78. Reminders of the brief time we are given

79. Faithful and Godly examples all around me

80. The sound of my dear husband's truck pulling into the driveway at the end of a long day

Spring morning Gifts...

2011-03-07T07:48:00.000-05:00

61. Lilacs ready to burst with fragrant bloom

62. Rains for the garden

63. This week's ashes

64. Opening the pantry to find abundance

65. Warm baths, soothing, refreshing

66. Tiny birds singing songs so big

67. Salads picked just steps from the kitchen

68. Squirrels running and jumping and playing

69. Clothes drying in the sunshine

70. New work for the hands

A New Direction...

2011-03-04T20:12:00.000-05:00

Once again, I am going against the flow. I've arrived again at the fork in the road.

And again, I've waited and pondered and chosen the path of less work, less money, and more joy.

The last year has been a challenging one. A new job for me. A new job for Treasured Husband. A new job for Sweet Daughter. New pursuits for Precious Son and his Wonderful Wife. A slowing down for Mother Dear. It's been a year of constant change and constant searching and constant adaptation. I'm tired... worn by the shifting priorities and survival moments and just-trying-to-keep-up.

But again, God is in the midst. Calling me to calm, wooing me back to the Word for relief. He is my refuge, my strength, my salvation in those moments when I know I've reached not the fork in, but the end of, the road. When I hang my head in despair, He calls me to take one more look, revealing that it's only a bend in that road.

So I have a new direction, a soft spot to land, part-time publications work for my hands and more time for the real and true things. It's a sweet surprise. I am awed and grateful.

More and More Gifts...

2011-02-21T17:34:00.000-05:00

41. warm breezes on skin too long cold

42. strength to do the work before me

43. wise words from a dear friend

44. new mulch, spread by the arms that hold me

45. round, blossom-filled buds on the dogwood my Daddy gave me

46. surprises from a husband, always thinking of me

47. streams of living water from the Word, poured over my world-parched soul

48. choices before me, options ahead, left or right?

49. darling Girl Scouts and the cookies they bring, sweetness in my day

50. deep, rich compost, filled with wiggly worms

51. her hands, working the yarn to bring comfort to others

52. knowing that He is with me

53. dedicated ladies gathering each week to pray, to teach, to lead, to encourage

54. clean water to drink

55. Tasha's Own Scottish Oats and Honey Goat Milk Soap cleansing and soothing my skin

56. paper of all kinds... printed and handmade and mulberry and so much more

57. feet that can still feel the cool grass

58. a pastor who cares, though he teases that he does not

59. this funny little house that's become a home

60. Joy... with 2-week-old baby girl and sweet big brothers and sister, and kind husband, trusting Him for all to move them to a new home... so strong

One Sunny Day

2011-02-19T18:43:00.000-05:00

Long, cold winter. Lots of flannel. Many layers of Icelandic wool blankets. Garden beds covered in snow and leaves. Bbbrrrrrrrrrr!

But over the last few days, the weather has changed. The skies have gotten brighter. The breezes have become milder. And today... today was warm and sunny and PERFECT for gardening! Spent the afternoon weeding the vegetable garden beds and soaking up some sunny warmth. Husband discovered beautifully aged compost in the bin, complete with a healthy, growing community of worms. He dressed the weeded beds with the rich compost before coming inside.

One sunny day has brought such renewal and refreshment, and I am thanking the Lord for it... have you felt the warming earth in your hands yet?

Images of Love... from the furry set

2011-02-14T19:54:00.000-05:00

...and some little goat smooches to make Valentine's Day complete...

Eyes slowing opening...

2011-02-07T10:57:00.001-05:00

...to see the blessings in all things

31. medical care, affordable and available

32. aging skin bearing reminders of His repeated healing

33. birds singing in the sunshine

34. fresh mulch and bright pansy faces

35. a husband's love so deep and true

36. black and white wing tips in my size

37. furry puppy snuggles

38. warm woolen shawls

39. quiet chatting between a father and a daughter

40. finishing Ann's book... and starting again

Pie...

2011-02-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

At the end of a long week...
After two long weeks...
After so many changes and so many transitions
so many joys and heartaches and prayers prayed through quivering lips
over the last couple of years...

I made pie.

Precious gift of a son came to visit. To cheer. To chat. To comfort his Nana.
Treasured daughter with the tender heart joined us for lunch. Breaking bread.
Sharing smiles.
Husband and Nana and I with the grown-up children, sharing a meal on a rainy February day.

It seems so simple, so normal. Something we all do from time to time. But it's been such a time for all of us these last couple of years that this simple thing seemed to slow down time, soothe the wounds of this world, and refresh my heart.

So I made pie.

Something sweet to complete our sweet time together. Apples and sugar and spices stirred with love. Crust formed in the dish and gently woven on the top. Bubbling goodness, warm and rich.

Pie. Yum.

I am learning to be ever grateful for these simple joys, these new beginnings, these moments given.

And today, the sun is shining and there's one last piece of pie.... *smile*

light is sweet

how pleasant to see a new day dawning.

Ecclesiastes 11:7

Today's gratitude . . .

2011-01-31T17:54:00.000-05:00

Today I am so grateful, my eyes opened to the blessings all around...

21. Friends not seen in so many days, still encouraging, still loving

22. The rich layers of God's word, so many still waiting for me to discover them

23. A book a praise, given by a sweet friend

24. Hard work and sacrifice

25. New opportunities placed in my path by His hand

26. The doubt that keeps me seeking Him

27. The warmth of my home, repelling the cold of this world

28. Women, 113 dear women, gathering this past weekend to pray and praise and learn and laugh

29. A pastor speaking biting truth, challenging we who are stagnant

30. Fresh flowers

More Gifts...

2011-01-24T16:37:00.000-05:00

Offering gratitude today for...

11. compassion expressed

12. a husband who loves me on the bad days

13. gray sweaters and gray socks and gray shawls...

14. cabinets overflowing with food in a world overflowing with empty stomachs

15. the tug on my heart to help fill those empty stomachs

16. a daughter's laughter

17. toes touching under warm blankets

18. the longing in my heart for more

19. precious wise women in my church family, wrapping their words and their prayers and their weakening arms around me

20. Ann's book

A Word Fitly Spoken...

2011-01-23T17:54:00.000-05:00

A bit of needlework stitched long ago...

The day could have been marred by contention

by strife and conflict

by division

But these simple words were spoken again and again

washing over the hearers

"...what does the Lord require of you

but to do justice

to love kindness

and to walk humbly with your God?"

Micah 6:8

These words

from ancient days

rang true in this time

bringing peace

uniting hearts.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

Proverbs 25:11

Gifts...

2011-01-17T11:04:00.000-05:00

And this day, I begin my own journey of gratitude. Offering thanks for...

1. warm woolen socks on a cold January morning

2. beans simmering in the crockpot

3. white linen tablecloths in the midst of Winter's darkness

4. creativity given by a creative God

5. angels in leather, arriving unexpectedly

6. rest

7. a moment of illumination while mining in the Word

8. Scarlett curling her furry self beside me

9. Tom's arm around my waist, singing hymns of praise in worship together

10. the regretted words that sent me back to the true Word, searching, seeking

2011: the year of . . .

2011-01-01T12:16:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the year 2011! The year of . . . what?

Many of the bloggers I follow have adopted words for this new year: the year of HOPE, the year of HERE, the year of PATIENCE, the year of JOY, and so on.

As I thought about what word I might like to live out this year, so many came to mind:

The year of ORDER (where is the thing I'm looking for right now and where do I put the thing I've just stumbled upon that I was looking for last week?)

The year of JOY (mine seems to come in spurts these days, like mustard from an almost-empty squeeze bottle)

The year of LOVE (I have not loved as I should, or as I would want to be, or as He has loved me)

The year of PEACE (3 jobs among the two of us in jeopardy in 2010, 2 new careers begun, ill health and dis-ease in our family, the urgent overtaking the important at every turn... I want peace)

But instead I chose to go to the Source, not the symptoms. This year will be the year of PRAYER. Of course, I pray. When I think to. When I have time to. When I need to. But were I truly honest with myself, I have a critically anemic prayer life. Through prayer (conversation and relationship) with the Master of Order, the Joy-giver, the Lord of Love, the Prince of Peace, all these things will be added to my daily walk.

Pray with me, won't you? May the path to our prayer closets or prayer corners or prayer chairs be well worn this year!

Snow!

2010-12-26T16:38:00.001-05:00

Scarlett is very perplexed... don't we live at the beach? What's this stuff?

It is such a rare treat that snow comes like this to our area. It's been a warm and quiet day inside after Christmas, time to reflect, time to relax, time to prepare my heart for the coming of a new year.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T12:24:00.000-05:00

For unto us a Child is born,

Unto us a Son is given;

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

A Christmas filled with

wonder, peace, and joy

to you and yours

from Flannel Jammies Farm!

Coming out of the dark...

2010-12-07T09:58:00.000-05:00

This can be a hard season. We are surrounded by gleeful (or quite Grinchy) shoppers, jangling carols, and images of perfection from television chefs and decorators and gift consultants. Our calendars are packed full... I have visions of mine exploding into tiny shreds and falling from the refrigerator door to the kitchen floor. Work demands increase and frustrate us as the days left to complete tasks decrease. The memories of Christmases Past can be so painful when there is an empty chair and a stocking that won't be filled. My own pain is so great this year, missing Daddy more and more as time goes by (not less and less as my well-meaning comforters have told me).

But in the midst of this chaos is The Miracle. The Lord who came as a babe to save us. The Lord who lived simply and sinlessly. The Lord who died willingly. The Lord who rose and lives to intercede for us. The Lord who prepares a place for us.

My eyes have fallen from this miracle in recent days. Today's morning devotion brought the cure for my wallowing ways:

Dear brothers and sisters,

honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work.

They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance.

Show them great respect and wholehearted love

because of their work.

And live peacefully with each other.

Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy.

Encourage those who are timid.

Take tender care of those who are weak.

Be patient with everyone.

See that no one pays back evil for evil,

but always try to do good to each other and to all people.

Always be joyful.

Never stop praying.

Be thankful in all circumstances,

for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.

Do not scoff at prophecies,

but test everything that is said.

Hold on to what is good.

Stay away from every kind of evil.

1Thessalonians 5:12-22

During this sometimes difficult season, never stop praying, no matter how long the list. Always be joyful in His grace; bring the sadness and pain to God for healing. Show patience and tender mercy to even the Grinchiest Grinch; it may be the only love of Christ they see this day. Live in peace; take a step away from the chaos for a cup of cocoa with a marshmallow (thank you, my sweet Trista). Listen for that small, leading voice of the Spirit. Hold on to what is good. Seek Him.

This is my lesson today... I pray for the strength and will to learn it well.

Pondering the Path...

2010-11-08T17:12:00.000-05:00

Been doin' alot of this lately... pondering the path I'm on.

Been humbled and challenged and discouraged over the last few weeks.

Been thankful that I feel well enough to do lots of things and go lots of places.

Been wantin' to go on adventures I'd thought were gone forever.

So I'm pondering...

Show me the right path, O Lord;

point out the road for me to follow.

Psalm 25:4

Trust...

2010-10-21T22:07:00.000-04:00

I am trusting, this day, in my Lord...

proverbs three

verses five and six

Amazing

2010-10-14T14:48:00.000-04:00

A while back, I wrote about healing and refreshment. That was more than a month ago. I still feel well. Really well. Isn't God amazing?

Here's the thing: isn't God amazing ALL the time? Isn't the Lord amazing when it rains for days on end or when I lock my keys in the car or when I'm being rolled into surgery... again? Isn't God amazing when I hold the hand of my grieving mother or when I make peace with a disagreeing Christian sister or when I say 'yes' to that thankless and difficult job at church?

The day is often long. The hill most times seems insurmountable. The illness rocks my very foundation. The job is not always rewarding. The call is not always an easy one.

But God is always amazing. He is perfect and pure and holy. He is faithful and merciful and in control. He seeks. He forgives. He calls. He leads. He equips. He strengthens. He comforts. He provides. He speaks to me in every situation through the Word.

And I bow in humility and amazement.

The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ,

the extravagant love of God,

the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit,

be with all of you.

2 Corinthians 13:14 - The Message

Welcome, Autumn...

2010-10-08T17:38:00.000-04:00

... you are a long awaited guest... settle in and stay a while

Rappahannock Farm Tour

2010-09-30T18:36:00.000-04:00

My husband and I had a wonderful early-Autumn adventure last week... we took part in the Rappahannock Farm Tour here in Virginia. Once a year, several farms, vineyards, schools, and even a distillery open their doors to the public, sharing their knowledge and experience and passion for the land. There are so many opportunities on the tour; we were blessed by our visits with the kind folks at Mt. Vernon Farm, Waterpenny Farm, a Montessori farm school, Copper Fox Distillery, and the Link Community Center...

First stop: Mount Vernon Farm! Totaling 830 acres, Mount Vernon Farm is nestled along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Rappahannock County, and has been farmed by the Miller family since 1827.

The barn at Mt. Vernon Farm was said to be the largest east of the Mississippi when it was built... it is an amazing structure!

Inside the barn loft is cavernous!

Mt. Vernon farm practices management-intensive rotational grazing. This is a complex management skill that ensures top quality health for the land, pastures, and animals by preventing the livestock from overgrazing the grass. This ensures that grazed pastures have enough time to recover before being grazed again. Using this technique allows the livestock to have access to high quality pastures and to fertilize the land. This eliminates the need for dietary supplements and synthetic fertilizers. Llamas guard the flock of sheep in the photo above.

Next stop: Waterpenny Farm, a 10-acre vegetable farm in Rappahannock County. Since their first growing season in 2000, they’ve been committed to running the farm in harmony with the environment, using sustainable farming methods, with no chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

What IS a waterpenny? From the Waterpenny Farm website:

"Waterpennies are beetle larva that can only live in clean water. Their presence in a stream, along with a diversity of other macroinvertebrates, indicates that the water is healthy. Our farm is named for the waterpennies we find in the North Fork of the Thornton River, which borders our farm. We intend to run our farm in a sustainable way that allows the waterpennies, and our local ecosystem, to thrive."

On to Mountain Laurel Montessori Farm School for lunch and a tour.

We were served a fresh and delicious lunch by the culinary manager at the school: a ninth grader! This intelligent and engaging individual had planned and prepared BBQ from the farm school's pork, farm school egg quiche with spinach and feta, perfectly mashed potatoes, bright and tasty greens, and a sweet local-apple cobbler. Our tour included the classroom space, the hoop barn and future hoop house (providing fresh food to the area's needy), the vegetable garden, the pond and games green, and chicken, pig, and sheep pens. History, chemistry, biology, physics, literary and performing arts are all lived out in the landscape. Truly inspiring!

Ah... the Copper Fox Distillery!

What an interesting place! Copper Fox is the only distillery in North America to hand malt their own barley, and they use apple and cherry wood smoke to flavor the malted barley. The entire operation is completed by a handful of dedicated folks, creating Wasmund's Single Malt and Rye Whiskys.

We're home now, continuing to praise God on our 1/5 acre of suburbia...

The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others.

Mark 4:14