SANDRA

                                                               Sandra

I’ve begun to catch my breath, and I’m eager to share a little about one of the most wonderful women our Lord ever created.

We speak more days than not.  I’m that blessed. 

I took today to write about her because, after having to clear out a storage box of treasures that became wet when rain poured in under my front door, I found the yo-yo pin she made me long ago. 

It’s not going back in that box, either.  I’ve already hung it on my “friends” wall.  If you’ve never made a yo-yo, take it from me, it’s not as easy as it appears.  Especially if you make several hundred to sew together into a quilt!  But, if you’re gifted, like my friend, Sandra (she doesn’t like being called Sandy) its pure pleasure.  That is, until your hands begin to ache from the tedious and repetitive motion.

If they do, I hope, like her, you just let go of that fun part of your life and look for something else to do to bless others, while enjoying yourself.  

She seemingly can’t be licked.  Not no way.  Not no how. 

~

I, Pencil - Leonard E. Read SUPPLY CHAIN +++

      

                ACCIDENTAL DELIGHT

It was suggested I watch You Tube to learn about the "I Pencil" for my unused I-Pad.  

I Goggled "I Pencil" and found this treasure!  It's about 13 minutes long, and quite enlightening!

Have fun.   I did.  

THINGS HAVEN'T (REALLY) CHANGED

 

(Answer Below)

Maybe I do this on purpose yet unawares.  Again I find myself feeling like an odd man out.  A very odd man.

I’m in this Covid-19 disaster, but, I’m not jostled, even though I’ve seen and heard lots of people tell me about the sky falling.  That may be too harsh.  I realize this is not make-believe.  It’s not hype.  It’s happening. 

However, if I may express my personal experience in this, things haven't really changed much.  

I feel like a misfit.  But, I believe we, as a collective, include an occasional misfit.  So, I’m ok with it.     

-

Someone:  “What am/are I/we going to do?” 

Me:  “No one knows.”

Someone:  “How can I stay safe?”

Me:  “Do your very best to follow people who know more than you and seem to want to help.  But, don’t forget, no one is really ever “safe” in the ways you’re hoping to find safety.

Someone:  “What if______________”

Me:  “No one knows.”

Someone:  “Will things ever be normal again?”

Me:  I read a saying I’ve grown to love that would fit nicely here:  “Normal is just a setting on the washing machine.”  (Reader’s Digest)

One person’s normal is another person’s abnormal.

-

I’m not thrilled to realize every change will not seem wonderful, but my course is set to forge ahead expectantly.

Things will never be exactly the same.  Things change continuously.  

They always have.  They always will.   

(Answer to Odd One Out challenge:  The man on the right is slightly larger.)

SEVENTEEN SISTERS (I counted)

This is a story about Seventeen women, (widows and singles).

Some knew each other.

Some didn’t. 

Their intent was to study through 31 Days of Praise by Ruth Myers (died 2007) and her husband, Warren Myers who is also gone from the earth (Died 2001).

Surprise! Surprise!  God was there!

Some women spoke.  Many really.

Their love and believable relationships with our Lord was made obvious. 

I liked it!

Still, I had my doubts.

Having read the “assigned” (strike 1) reading in the book ($5) I had mixed feelings.  I had been reading Pursuit of Holiness and that author had been a “Navigator” (so was Mr. Myers). I wasn’t familiar with that group, but my dear friend, Sharon said her Dad, and I think her Mom too, was connected to something the Navigators were a part of.  So, that was enough for me to maintain a glimmer of hope I might learn something worthwhile.

Anyway, The Holiness book wasn’t looking too promising after 4 chapters.  There were inconsistencies and lots of “you must’s.” The biggest faux-pas was, “If you (fill in the blank) __________, you might not be saved.”  Yikes!

So, I’m saying strike 2 going in.

However, as my gentle, and wise Savior does so often, He toned me down enough to see through the troubling wording of “the book”, and He touched two dear sister’s hearts (who led the group) to reach through the offensive wording and pull out the essence of what the material said, which was divine. 

It said, (in essence), “You can be closer to God, and more like what He planned for you.  This book may help.”

I committed to the entire 6 weeks! 

Thanking, once again, our Heavenly Father, and fully expecting much from these sisters I’ve just been acquainted with, and of course, the precious one I already knew. 

a few months later…

The study group didn’t disappoint, which for me was a miracle.  I seem to hold people and groups who claim to know our Savior to such very high standards, I’m almost always disappointed.  But, not this time!

Lovingly, Linda

 

SAY, WHA?

SAY, WHA?

Here’s a good one to ponder.

“Disinterested benevolence.” 

Completely foreign in concept, right?  That’s because it’s heavenly. 

Just to make sure we’re on the same page, I’m talking about doing something benevolent (generous, kind, thoughtful+.) and then forgetting all about it. 

It sounded super weird to me at first, but on further consideration, I could see something admirable in it.  So, of course, I determined to give it a go. 

I found I was right.  It is super weird.  Know what was inconspicuously missing?  I was.  I mean I wasn’t taking into account how I might benefit, or how I might lose something if I (fill in the blank) ed.

So, I managed to send myself on an imaginary hike somewhere, and was more or less benevolent.  I admit it was in a small way.   I sleuthed about so successfully, not even I could have recounted the impact of my mini-benevolence.  Truth be told, I do remember it.  But, forgetting has happened here and there as I continue to sleuth about looking for times I might commit these “disinterested benevolent” acts, I think I’m getting better at forgetting.  It has happened. 

I LIKED IT! 

As with most new behaviors, I am finding new ways to be disinterestedly benevolent, and new blessings from perfecting this “super weird” behavior.  It’s an ongoing adventure, one of my favorite things!

I’m having trouble coming up with examples to tell you, as to aid in your own adventures, because (of course) I’ve forgotten most of them.  But, I do remember one I re-use from time to time.  

This wasn’t really my own idea, except maybe for the last part, but you may have heard occasionally someone in line (usually at a fast-food restaurant drive-through) pays for the order of the car behind them. 

Well, that’s an example, only in this case, you don’t check their reaction in your rear-view mirror, and you tell the ole’ memory to forget what just happened.  Isn’t that a blast?

Writin' ain't what it used to be

Today, as I searched for a publisher, I came across Blazevox Books.  These publishers narrow down writing requirements to a simple criteria today's writer's might really understand.  Well, I do.

Their criteria, and I quote, "...your work must not suck."

Reference page 230 of Writer's Market 2015

Many Uses for Milk

Lately, I have been enjoying the many wonders of plain old milk.  It started when my path crossed not one, but two dear women from India who made yogurt almost daily.  I found out many people from India do. 

When I tasted it, I asked one of them how they did it.  Wow!  It’s easy!  So, I’ve been making my own for a couple years now.  It’s less expensive, and more delicious, and very kind to my inner-workings. 

From the yogurt, I've made smoothies, soft cheese (similar to cream cheese) and of course regular and Greek-style yogurt.  I’m getting ready to make some flavored yogurt for my husband.  I’m planning to try peach first.

Since my openness to make-it-yourself yogurt, I've become aware of several other dairy products that don’t look too intimidating.  A quick Google search turns up homemade mozzarella, sour cream, ricotta, cottage cheese, kefir, buttermilk, and of course butter.  I did do the butter…it’s also gratifying. 

Of course, all I have to do is go to a dairy department and I could find most of these dairy products, but what’s the fun in that? 

My personal method is a combo from several posts I've read, and You-Tube video’s I've watched, people I've talked to about it, and tweaks I developed after having done it myself. 

To get my recipe for homemade yogurt just click here more…

For your first batch, you’ll need a little yogurt (about 4 Tablespoons).  It is important for it to have live cultures in it.  I used Dannan plain yogurt and it worked great.  After your first batch, you can save about 4 Tablespoons of your own yogurt and use that instead of store-bought.

You’ll need a heavy saucepan.  I use a three-quart one, and fill it about ½ of the way with milk.  I use either whole or 2% milk, but I’m pretty sure you can use any kind.

Heat milk to a temperature between 170 and 180 degrees.  I use a candy thermometer clipped to the side of my saucepan.  It’s important for the metal bulb of the thermometer to be toward mid-depth, to get an accurate reading.  I shoot for 175 degrees.  It’s easy to read on my thermometer.  I like using a wooden spoon to stir it occasionally.  It is important for the bottom not to become scorched. 

Remove from heat and let milk cool to between 105 and 110 degrees.

If you remembered to bring your starter yogurt to room temperature, you can stir in 4 or more tablespoons of it now.  If you didn't remember, you can “temper” it by pouring about ½ cup of the milk into the starter yogurt and stirring it well.  Then, add it to the heated milk. 

Now the mixture must cure.  It’s best to have a warmish area for this.  I accomplish my warm area by turning on my oven light and setting the pot on an oven rack.  Yes, I close the oven door. I keep the pot uncovered so condensation doesn't form and drip back on the mixture.

So, that’s really it, except for waiting 6—8 hours for the yogurt to solidify.  It’s wonderful—after the time period--you open the oven and check by sampling a teaspoon or so.  It is very yummy, and mild.  Ohhh this is my favorite part. 

If it’s not sour or solid enough for you, let it set longer.  This is a matter of taste.  I think about 12 hours would be all you’ll want to try. 

I put mine right into the fridge after covering the saucepan.  I use my yogurt from the pan, but I have poured it into glass jars before the curing time, and that worked well too.  I think I read somewhere not to disturb the warm yogurt too much, so I wouldn't pour it into jars after it firms up.  Anyway, becomes quite a bit thicker as it cools in the fridge, so don't worry if yours seems too soft.  

I'd love to hear how it goes for you.  

I'm a Crackin'

I am a writer, I am a writer, I am…  Oh, fiddle.  Is there another fabulous writer who has been working on a book or two over forty years?  I’m thinking, "Yes."  If not, please don’t disillusion me.  However, life-spans being what they are, I’d better get crackin’.

Which brings me to eggs, that we must crack, which leads nicely into the book I am going to finish, I say, finish this year.  I've titled it “Feeding Human Beings”, and yes, silly, it actually is about making food for people—oddly enough.

Do I care that I've just let the zillions of followers I have know the title of this upcoming thriller?  No.  Now, the old me would have talked herself entirely out of letting you, my faithful reader, in on the scoop. I’d think, “Dear me, now no publisher will want it.  I've spoiled everything.” Ad nauseum. 

The reason I’m mentioning this now is because I've put the ol’ foot down, and will no longer listen to whoever-it-is that has been discouraging me.  The world needs this book!  Well, I can tell you there will be lots of youngish people who will be happy they get their hands on it.

It’s not a traditional type cook-book, oops,  I've said too much. 

In any case….keep on the lookout for the revolutionary approach to feeding (you know what).

Trouble saying, “No.”?

I’ve just come up with a whiz-bang exercise to help you.  It involves a TV. 

1.  Using your remote, turn TV on a news, morning, or reality show right at the time the show begins.

2. With remote still in your hand, face the screen squarely.

      3.  In the middle of the most earth-shattering statement, speak these words, “No, not right now,” and finish by turning the TV off.  

Now, isn't that a kick?

Meet the Virtual Me

In the event you are curious about just who I am, here's a little insight.  To see who the lovely April Bowles is, click this link.

Grami's First Day

Charly & Grami

Hi~ I'm Grami.

Today is the day I dreamt of.  It's the first day I'm spending with my Granddaughter, Charly.

Mom returned to work.  Charly is six months old.  

Can you say, "Text message"?  

It's 12:45.  Six hours in, and there's been twenty-three of them so far.  In addition there have been three voice calls.   Dad to me, Me to Dad, Dad to me Dad to me, Mom to me. Mom to me. Me to mom...

Charly has literally not left my sight.  She's been either in my arms, within arms reach, or on the TV screen via short circuit.

The television has been on the entire time, because it requires a programmer to turn it on.  Mercifully, I found the "mute" button.  

This brings me to my reason for writing--I happened to catch a popular morning program with two attractive women engaged in animated conversation.  They were quickly joined by a third woman, even more enthusiastic than the first two women.  

Since I muted the sound, I was able to gain a different perspective.  Smiles gleamed, heads waggled, arms flung.

"Oh my goodness!," I thought.  "That looks like me!"

Yikes~  Do we all look alike?  Do we gravitate excitedly around any new item, chatter and banter, then make it ours?

I looked over at Charly, who was enjoying gnawing on the face of a doll, and spoke distinctly and adult.  "Maybe I can spare her," I thought.  "Yes, Charly, that is your doll.  Please treat her with respect."

She smiled.

"OOh, r n't you gram's witty snuggli buggi honey-doll?" I squealed, bobbing my head and flailing my arms about.

Take Your Guitar

My beloved "TOONIES" !

The Holiday Season is one time people will be glad to see your guitar case!  Bring it with you to celebratory gatherings, and practice the G, C and D chords.  Why?  Because THAT"S ALL YOU'LL NEED to accompany revelers as they belt out familiar carols!

If you don't believe me, just try it!  Choose a three-beat strum and a four-beat strum, then wail away.  Oh yeah!  It's good!

Introducing the Needle Art/Fun side of me

Huckleberry

Today, I give you the berries!  I mean my sheep.  Have I mentioned I am the fortunate mother of wildly talented people?  Well, I am.  One of them, Joshua Sparkman, has created a delightful herd of cartoon sheep, championed by our Logo sheep, Huckelberry.

Honeyberry

These are the berries I spoke of eariler.  Today, his special friend, Honeyberry learned to knit!  Way cool for a sheep to knit, I know.  (Just look at her scarf!) But, there is even MORE.

She is introducing a revolutionary new approach to knitting/crochet patterns.  It's just too fun! It's in ENGLISH.  "K2, P7, Sl 2 WYIB", and such is NO WHERE TO BE FOUND!  Hooray!

To get a FREE complete "UP-attern" [up pat turn] (stands for "Uncut Pattern", as in real words)
just e-mail your request to: lsparkman@blacksheepnorthville.com, or request one in the comments below.

My First Official Rant

Happy Days  are here again…I hope!  I’ve been on a virtual dark place for several days.  It started when I decided a business person like myself should not have “.blogspot.com” as part of their wonderful blog address.  U G H. 

First, I spent way too many hours on the phone with or w-a-i-t-i-n-g    on    h—o—l—d   with my web hosting company, Bizland with NO success.  They are losing points with me quickly.

Secondly, I spent way too many hours reading complicated jargon about redirecting and what-not, with no real success either.

Thirdly, the wonderful world of “Word Press” completly republished my site with their name plastered all over every page—not acceptable, or accessible. 

And, so, whether the “blogspot.com” makes me look like an amateur or not, I’m quite pleased with it for now.  --What did I expect for virtually no monetary outlay?  Ah, one day, far, far away…          

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE GETS STAINS OUT OF MY CARPET SINGLE-HANDEDLY IN 2 QUICK STEPS

Hydrogen Peroxide gets out pet stain and odors from my carpet, along with those mystery dots from who knows where. 

Kroger sells a nice flip top jar for a great price.

1.  If obvious moisture is on carpet, absorb it first.  (Note to newbies:  Do not force moisture deeper into the carpet by rubbing.  Instead, lay an absorbent cloth or paper over the wet area, and then step on cloth or paper until moisture is absorbed.)
2.  I just open the top and squirt liberally. 

No wiping, no anything. 

When it’s dry (might take a day or two, depending on size of stain), if stain remains, or comes back, simply repeat. 

Eventually (usually no more than 2 or 3 applications) stain is g o n e! 

The odor disappears too!

...................Linda (I'm not affiliated with Kroger, any brand should work.  )

Staples Can Hurt

On my way to find out just how dangerous the metal staples on my prescription bags (and CHINESE FOOD CARRY-OUT BAGS!) really were, I happened across a comprehensive document on safety writing for the Hospitality Institute of Technology Management. (C&F:homecook/home-2006-2col-clr-forpdf- rev 10/30/08 print 10/30/08 © HITM 1994 Jun 06 edition 2006)

In short, staples can hurt people by poking and/or scratching their fingers, or other body parts, and yes, people do swallow them, or pieces of them, by mistake—ouch!  The most outstanding thing I learned is, according to the article:

 “Insurance companies pay more money for mouth and throat injuries due to hard foreign objects in the food than for any type of food borne illness.” 

The article goes on to say the reason for this is because of how easy it is to determine injury cause for these cases.  My input is, I was right!  Staples in a kitchen can be a problem.

On the other hand, the article also warned against one of my favorite all time products… “Metal scrub pads should not be used for cleaning pots and pans and other surfaces, because the fine pieces of metal may get into the food.

                                      Rats!

http://www.hi-tm.com/1908/SECTION-1-D-1908.pdf  (shorter version)

http://www.hi-tm.com/homeprep/Home-2006-2col-forpdf.pdf  (The entire document)

C&F:homecook/home-2006-2col-clr-forpdf- rev 10/30/08 print 10/30/08 © HITM 1994 Jun 06 edition. "Food Saftey Hazards and Controls For the Home Food Preparer." Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management. June 2006. http://www.hi-tm.com/homeprep/Home-2006-2col-forpdf.pdf (accessed 11 9, 2011).

Here Goes....

...we shall see how this pans out.  I've got so much to say, and who knows how much time left to say it!  I plan to post interesting things related to the business side of me (I am a Serial Entrepreneur---and yes there is such a thing.) here at Linda Sparkman's Blog.  

Additionally, I plan to post items more specific to Needle Arts on my blog titled "Black Sheep Northville".  There may be a little cross over, but that is my life.  I'll do my best to keep reader's from wasting their priceless time.  

Thanks a lot for visiting.  

Initial Test

This is a test. It is only a test. There is no need to adjust your settings, or run for cover, or anything like that. I will go away now. Bye.