Welcome back; thanks to all of you that left a comment! I have a sweet package going out to: Diane J. Pat, M. Terri S. Pam M. Bonnie L. Sheri T. Rachelle M. Dana K. Luise R. Marie D. All of you will find a Heart & Keeper Beverage Mug filled with Salt Water Taffy I picked up for you on the Morro Bay Embarcadero. You’ll also find your Heart & Keeper Wristband that is inscribed with "Live purposefully, worthily, and accurately..." Ephesians 5:15-16. Your comments also entered

"May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right." Peter Marshall May your celebrations be filled with opportunities to thank those who have fought for our freedoms and to do what is right. Exciting posts and news ahead as I launched my website a year ago on July 12!! Everyone who leaves a comment in the month of July will be entered into my Bits of Bliss Grand Prize Giveaway - but the first 12 to comment will get a

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to put that apron on and make something fun and special! Enjoy these recipes! Meringue Sweethearts from Heart & Keeper of the Home Contributor Jean Reno Ingredients: 3 large egg whites ¼ tsp. Cream of Tartar 1/8 tsp. salt 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract Directions: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with waxed paper or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Beat together with mixer the egg whites, Cream

This is one of my favorite gifts to put together and give for Christmas. It's easy and quick, and it makes your home smell lovely. It makes a great hostess gift or gift for your co-workers and neighbors! Ingredients: 1 whole orange 1 whole lemon 1 TBL. whole cloves 2 4" cinnamon sticks 2 bay leaves Directions: Combine all ingredients in a decorative clear bag. Tie closed with holiday ribbon. Attach these directions on a gift tag to your gift: Christmas Scent Mix Cut unpeele

I hope you can pour a cup of iced tea and join me for a stroll through this lovely garden. It's filled with picnics, lattes, thoughts, and reflections written to encourage YOU! "For they refreshed my spirit and yours also..." I Corinthians 16:18 NIV Photo Credit: fishtailcottage.blogspot.com M - Meaningful, Memorable A - Appreciate, Affirm Y - Yearn, Yes, YOU! I thought we would take ALL of May to celebrate women who have been a great influence or encouragement in our lives -

Whenever you see someone carrying wrapped gifts or see them stacked high in OR on top of a car remember why we give gifts. It's to show His love to others as He did when He sent His Son to be born in a manger - the greatest gift of all. Although the Christmas season certainly is not all about gifts they do play a part in our celebrations. As you finish your Christmas shopping consider some suggestions on one of my favorite blogs - Girlfriends In God. In their Dec. 20-21