Baby will be arriving shortly...

So I better update on what's going on!!  Baby is scheduled for induction on Monday the 27th.  I am already 3 cm dilated which took me by surprise.  I'm thinking she is already over 8 lbs towards 8.5 or higher...yikes!  We are all just anticipating her arrival and can't wait to meet her.  Grandma and Grandpa are due to arrive tomorrow to watch the kids.  I'm almost packed for the hospital :)  Hopefully the weekend will go quickly!

Flu fighter

With news of the flu going around, I thought I would post this recipe for Elderberry syrup for my friends and family.  It has been shown that having Elderberry in your system can deter the flu virus from setting in but if you do get the flu, Elderberry will cut down on the number of days you suffer and the the symptoms.  Elderberry is very easy to make!!!  We currently have 2 jars in the fridge and we're taking it morning and night for prevention.
I buy my ingredients from the Bulk Herb Store.
Dried Elderberry: http://www.bulkherbstore.com/Elderberries-Whole_Organic
Raw Honey: http://www.bulkherbstore.com/Raw-Honey?s=raw%20honey

It is best to use Stainless Steel when cooking with herbs.  In a stainless steel pot, pour 1/2 cup dried elderberries and 3 cups water.  Bring to a boil, cover pot and simmer for 30 -45 mins.  Pour syrup into a mason jar through a fine strainer (or cheesecloth) and mash/squeeze the berries against the strainer or cloth to get all the extra juice out.  When it cools down a little, add 1 cup of raw honey.  Stir and store in fridge for 3 months.
Take a spoonful a day (we take 2!) for prevention, but when sick take a spoonful every hour.
(Adults: 1 tbsp, Children: 1 tsp)

Here's a video to help you if you need more instructions:
http://jillshomeremedies.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-to-make-elderberry-syrup.html

Happy Birthday to our girl!

Happy birthday to our firstborn!  Eleven years old....imagine.  Entering the pre-teen years!  Our girl is such a big help around the house especially right now when it is so hard for me to do things (with such a huge belly!!)  She is becoming quite the young lady.  Please be in prayer for her as she heads into these next couple of years of change, that she will have a servant's heart and will continue to maintain a willingness to learn and follow the guidance of us, her parents, and that she will continue to grow closer to the Lord.  I look forward to the next phase of life with her as she matures!  She is such a blessing to our family and we love you so very much!!