“Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow.”  ~ Mary Anne R.

Bonsai

I present....

My first houseplant here in Estonia :) 

A little Bonsai tree that was near dead when I got it which probably explains why it was on sale. I'm hoping it will stay alive for me!

Of Cakes, Carrots, and Cold

Latest weather report - It is now officially FREEZING here in Estonia according to this california girl! ;) Today, as I stepped outside to go on a walk, I had to fight the overwhelming urge to turn around and run back into the warmth of the house. It wouldn't have been so bad if the wind hadn't been whipping past my ears turning them numb so quickly. Surprisingly the sun was shining, but it's warmth seemed just out of reach. It is hard to hear my family and friends complaining of the unusually hot autumn weather they have on the other side of the world. I suppose it is easier to appreciate things we don't have.

The leaves on the trees are dying quickly...strange how that can be a thing of beauty.
Last weekend we stopped at this forsaken church ---->
Found it such a gorgeous contrast against the blue sky.

I tried a new muffin recipe this evening. "Carrot spice muffins"

Hubby and I decided they were amazing! Completely vegan is the best part. Simple to make, healthy and also moist and delicious. Yummy! I will be saving that recipe for future use. :)

Also this past weekend was my Mother-in-laws birthday and this is the cake that we baked for her. Looks alright I'd say, and it tasted good (how could anything with that much sugar and butter not? lol) but I wasn't really impressed with the recipe. It turned out far to dry for my liking. Next time I want to bake a cake I'll try something different. 

Beauty in misery

Need some inspiration for your Monday?

I was impressed with this woman's candid and passionate way of sharing her story. I admire that she was not intimidated to speak of what she believes in her heart. It is a moving testimony, and I would suggest taking the time to watch it! 

Here is the link:

http://vimeo.com/11439867

This speech was at Queen's Hall, Parliament House in Victoria, Australia on the eve of the debate to decriminalize abortion.

I am struck by this woman's perseverance in the face of what we would call difficulties yet she calls a gift. 

"We misunderstand how beautiful suffering can be...When it comes we forget, we forget that God is in control and God has a way of making the most miserable thing beautiful."