Here are some simple tips about some simple kitchen tools from a simple-minded cook. I use a splatter screen for frying chicken, then I drain some of the oil from the cooked pieces by placing them on top of the screen for a few minutes before serving. The oil drips back into the pan and…
A Little Girl and the Doves
Many years ago there lived a little girl who loved her grandmother’s garden. You may know a girl like her or you may be like her. Summer evenings were the little girl’s favorite time. That was the time the mourning doves came to drink at the small garden pond near the front porch where she…
A Shoebox Love Story
Every year, a Christian organization called Samaritan’s Purse facilitates the distribution of shoeboxes filled with small toys and useful items to children in poor or war-torn countries. The boxes are filled by people across America in the spirit of giving to those less fortunate at Christmas. “Back in 2000, an 8-year-old girl named Joana in…
Interior Design Trends
Bet you thought you were going to read about new trends in Interior Design, right? Actually, what I want to point out is that trends can work against us. Faddish colors or patterns can wear thin quickly. As I write this, we’re in the throes of a cross-country move. While sorting through our possessions, I…
Better Photos – Toothless
Did your child (grandchild) sing, “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth?” this past December? If so, did you record a keepsake image of his/her condition? As a professional children’s photographer, I suggested parents bring the child to me for an excellent professional image at this once-in-a-lifetime age. What’s cuter than children…
Overcoming Overwhelm Part 2
When I have more than I can handle, I want to complain to someone, anyone who will listen. I want to spout off about how much I have to do and how little time I have to do it in. I want some pity and maybe if I’m honest, I want to feel important. (I…