Turning a little into a lot.

When Chloe was a baby she was not a good sleeper.  Being my first baby the shock to my system was a big one!   We had friends that had a beautiful family of four young daughters, Dean and Jenene.   Jenene kept a beautiful home and was a fabulous cook.  She made yeast cakes that were legendary.  The girls were gorgeous and so well behaved.  Her family were involved in the church and Jenene always looked lovely.   The biggest thing though was she was always glowing with happiness and smiling.    ( This family went on into Ministry and many years later Dean married Chloe and Luke!)  

One day when I was desperately tired Jenene told me something that has stayed with me until this day.  She said when she was up with babies in the night she used to pray that God would turn her few hours sleep into plenty and make these hours a quality sleep that would count as a lot.   This really hit me. I had never thought in this way at all.  My brain had to grasp this!   It was a loaves and fishes approach to sleep. God could turn a little into a lot. 

What Jenene told me changed everything.  I also became much less stressed and less focused on the actual number of hours sleep I had.  It taught me that God is in the numbers and there is more to it than maths.


This led me to think on lots of circumstances where one and one does not automatically equal two.

One is when you tithe you have more.   There have been times in the past that I have given and technically and mathematically it was a mistake.  However not once did I end up lacking. 

Everyone has 24 hours in their day.  Some people will have a lot of free time and achieve nothing.  Others that have full time jobs and six kids somehow miraculously write a book,  run a sideline business and garden.  

Some people on very high wages are always broke.  Someone else on low wages has a wonderful pantry full of food, an emergency fund and savings. 

I am making vast generalisations and there are exceptions but you will know what I mean as you will know people who squander their time, talents and opportunities and others that work to improve themselves and do things to the best of their ability.   We will all know people who are like sieves in that no matter how much they are given it falls through their hands like sand.  No matter how much they have they are not happy.    On the flip side we will know people who have very little but always are a joy and good to be around,  they are happy and generous. 

We have a friend who often gives us a hand to do things here on the farm.   He helped us build the big chicken run.  I was holding panels or wire fencing in place while he stapled them down.  We couldn't stop laughing,  I don't even remember what that was about.  But I note we have that much fun working and some people can have tickets to the best concert in town or go to the best restaurant and still not really seem to enjoy themselves. 

There is the woman who has a messy house but thinks if she had the house of her dreams she would keep it clean.  Unless we are faithful with a little why would we be faithful with a lot?

Some things are perspective.  I saw someone on social media complain about their "small crappy" laundry.   Someone else replied it is their DREAM to have a laundry that isn't part of their kitchen.  Maybe there is a way to turn a little laundry into a lot!  I think so, with some shelves and hanging space it can be done! 

My Grandparents went through the World Wars and Great Depression.  I can't imagine how many times that Nana turned a little into a lot in her kitchen.   She knew how to make the best soups.  Nothing was wasted. They grew a few things and had a community of relatives and friends who helped each other out.  She could have written a book on the subject of turning a little into a lot! 

Why am I telling you this now?  Because many of us are facing such unsure times that things on paper might not look good.  The budget might not balance.  I am encouraging you to build up your home and pantry like never before.   (I am going to have a second part to this to try to help more in this area.)  We used to watch football and had a commentator who was great with words.  They were assessing the team for the new year and someone exclaimed how this team looked so fantastic on paper.  Denise replied that it true but they will be playing on grass,  not paper.   What looks good on paper does not take into account a million factors such as dynamics,  communication,  relationships, spirit and more... 

God can truly turn a little into a lot.  When people are willing to do all they can with what they have God can step in and work a miracle.   I have been completely amazed over and over how praying before shopping changes everything.    For things you are truly needing praying about it and waiting really does work wonders.  If you are not sure about this then you have nothing to lose by giving it a go.  In advance I am expecting to hear some amazing stories from you.  

Do not be discouraged.  God can turn a little into a lot.   Do not let people put numbers on you either.  An example is Dad was told if he was very well behaved and lucky he might have five years to live.  This was back when he had a massive heart attack at 60.   He wasn't very well behaved (medically)  and he lived another twenty three years in a very full way.   I have seen others who live a very healthy and fit lifestyle only to drop dead and end up being the healthiest person in the cemetery.   No one knows.  Don't let anyone hem you into a corner with numbers.   Corrie Ten Boom gave her testimony that she went into a concentration camp and managed to hang on to her Bible and her bottle of vitamin drops.  She worked out she had enough drops for a month.  Less if she shared them with her sister and even less if she shared them with her fellow prisoners.   She went ahead and shared them.  She still used those drops until she left that camp. The drops never ran out no matter how many people she gave them to.  (A movie was made about her life.)   

Do you have some tricks to share on turning a little into a lot?   I will share one of mine here....  Miracle Muffins.     These are an inexpensive and delicious way to fill hungry tummies for breakfast, lunch or snacks.  Just about anything can go into these!  If you have a few berries you can make them seem more with some of my tricks. 

A good baking day always amazes me.   I am hoping to have one tomorrow but it is almost magical how basic pantry ingredients can give you so much.


It is so cold here tonight!  The fire is raging and keeping us warm.  I went out in the wind and planted out more of the Aloe Vera from my Uncle.  Then I had little ones which I have potted up to grow and take to the trading table. Hopefully too they will multiply and I can then pot up new ones,  turning a little into a lot! xxx






Comments

  1. This really lifted me and gave me hope, I realise this is how I had been living most of my life but of late I feel I make no headway. Really have lost my way and focus on my big picture.
    Thanks for an inspiring post.

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    1. Dear Anon, Thank you, I am so glad if this was encouraging to you. Each little thing does make a difference. Dont give up hope! With love Annabel.xxx

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    2. Same here. Pam

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  2. I have a friend with a fruit orchard planted by refugees from a communist country. They packed in every edible plant into this house block. My friend has given me dozens of cuttings from the fig trees and I use a heat mat to get a high success rate in propagation. Her sticks will be trees by Christmas.
    If you have fig trees they are very easy from cuttings in winter even if you put them into a trench with 4-6 nodes under the soil.
    Bramble berries are incredibly easy to layer and multiply.
    I’ve got an incubator for fertile eggs if I can teach my husband about chicken maths.
    I taught myself how to crochet from YouTube and make blankets which is very calming, creative and satisfying.
    There is a lot that you can get momentum from being at the right time. Educate yourself on what to do each season to grow more plants or handle your harvest like jam making, preserves or canning.
    Be ready and don’t delay.
    Kate

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    1. I love all you are doing Kate and you are right, dont delay! xxx

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  3. Such a wonderful post Annabel! Thank you for encouraging us to do more with what we have, and to put our faith in God. I have been a little depressed lately and lacking motivation, but this post has given me inspiration and hope. Much love Tania xxx

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    1. Dear Tania, You have been through a lot and I can understand you feeling low. But now we have such a vital role as we have Grandchildren and we need to be way ahead. This means you have such an important job. We need to be very busy and thinking ahead. I hope you feel better and get back to blogging too! With love Annabelxxx

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    2. Tania, I am praying for you. Patti from California

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  4. No one can out give God. We have seen it again and again. When our children were growling up and the grocery budget always seemed to be not enough I took ten dollars from it to give to missions each month. From that day forward and for every month that the money went to missions we had plenty and grocery money left over. Three years ago our church stepped out in faith to move from temporary meeting places to owning our own building. Our pastor told us to ask God how much to give and to give exactly that amount. I asked and god gave me what seemed an impossible amount. I wrote the check and sent it off. Within a few weeks we received that amount plus 50% in a big check. It was refund on a mistake made years before on my husbands disability. I could tell stories like this for days and never run out of the incredible blessings bestowed on us! When we are so weary that we cannot go on we can look back and see how He carried us through and we always had enough and more. That is how I got through ten days at my husband's bedside when he was in a coma. I knew that He was there with me and He would take care of the outcome. And He did.

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    1. That is a wonderful testimony Lana. Thank you so much for sharing these times with us. We can be confident in God! xxx

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  5. Thank you for your wise words, Annabel. Most days I'm busy and pretty content, but some days I need an attitude adjustment and a shift in perspective. So glad to have this group to come to!

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  6. Lovely post, thank you. Funny you should mention 'crappy laundry rooms', I followed a blog where she was complaining about having a tiny laundry room with no space for a folding table. I was flummoxed, a laundry room would be the last thing I desired, I mean why would I need one? I have a washing machine and a ceiling airer and that does me beautifully. As for a folding table, well I had never even heard of one! I certainly don't need one to fold up my laundry,.
    I would like to live somewhere quieter and more rural and have a bigger garden, but it's not going to happen so I have to appreciate what I have got.

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    1. Su, I thought almost the same thing when I read that. I used to live in a house 1/3 smaller than the one I live in now. It was a very small house, but had plenty of laundry space. All the other rooms were so small, one of the bedrooms was only big enough for a twin sized bed, no dining room, and there was only room in the kitchen for a very small square table pushed up against the wall - only enough room to seat 3, but we squished 4 of us at the table. All during the time we lived there, I kept saying I appreciated the laundry room, but really would rather the other rooms were bigger. We moved into this bigger house with obviously bigger rooms, but the washer and dryer are on the end of the kitchen right beside back door. I have to lock the door when I'm taking clothes out of the dryer so as not to get hit with the door when another family member comes into the house. I put an over the door rack on the pantry closet directly across from the dryer to hang clothes when I remove them from the dryer. I also have to lock the door when I open the pantry door in order to avoid being banged with doors. With the amount of space this house has they definitely could have done a much a better job with the floor plan! It is very inconvenient, but I still appreciate the other rooms being larger instead of having the spacious laundry room. ~~ Linda

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  7. Good post! I have looked a couple places trying to find GF self rising flour. Just happened to think I may have a recipe so will look and if I do will try it with my GF flour to make your Miracle muffins. Love all your tips and ideas.

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    1. I know it is available... just check around. I think it is Red Mill? that has it. Otherwise yes just turn regular flour into self raising with baking powder. I am finding I can substitute GF flour in most things and no one even notices! xxx

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  8. Wow, I live a 20 minutes car ride from where the house is where Corrie was born and lived, it is in the middle of the city Haarlem. I did not know this story. The house where she lived is now a small museum. I learn so much from your blog. Thanks.

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    1. That is amazing! She had a big influence on me! xxx

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  9. You are so right - I love this - and I have prayed the same prayer through all the sleepless nights with my nine babies! God is so faithful and we must remind ourselves, He steps in when we are failing. xo
    ~ Gig in Prince Edward Island

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    1. Hi Gigi, You have done so well with nine babies! That is wonderful! xxx

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  10. Lovely uplifting post! Bless you Annabel!

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  11. Annabel you must have known that I needed to read this. I have not been keeping up with what needs doing here at home. I have been complaining to myself that I just dont seem to be able to find the time or the energy to get things done. I have been leaving cleaning out the kitchen cupboards because I am hopeful of getting a new kitchen so what is the point. The point is that I need to live in the here and now and make the best of what I have.
    I was sitting in my recliner and I looked up after reading your post. I was up and out of the chair and had the front room tidied up in no time at all. The kitchen was cleaned up. This morning I have been through a number of cupboards and have cleaned them out. The exteriors of the cupboards have all been given a good clean. I am feeling so good in myself and with my surroundings.
    Have a wonderful weekend.

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    1. Good job Jane! We have all been there! Much love, Patti in California

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    2. Dear Jane, You have been doing a lot. And a lot for others. I go between being on top of it all to it being on top of me which is when I am too tired. But it feels so darn good to have things organised and looking good. As the week goes on this will be when I get tired. You are doing a good job! With love Annabelxxx

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  12. Thank you for this encouraging, motivating post. I am new to your blog and plan to catch up reading some of your older posts. I love that you have such a positive way of looking at the world, that you inspire others to do the same, and that you give God the glory.

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    1. Thank you so much Dianna and welcome I am so happy to have you here! xxx

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  13. Lovely Post! I wish I could stick a spoon through the screen to your soup. lol, looks so delicious.
    Little by little we accomplish jobs , wealth etc..Little steps are so much easier and yield big dividends.

    I am moving a pile of wood. It was huge to start. I move 1 or 2 wheelbarrow loads a day. In a few days it will be done.
    I try to think of ways to build that are self sufficient and can make us less dependent on stores or other people.

    I have added Chickens again. We have had them before and it is a constant fight with the Coyotes. This time my husband built a Chicken Tractor from scrap wood. I really like them to free run they kill all the bugs and spiders, but I’m just feeding the Coyotes.

    I figured out how much feed I need for the next 6 months and bought it. I have stocked up on Cat food and dog food as well. Grains are projected to be in very short supply in 2023/2024. I don’t want to feed my human food to my animals.

    I read a commodities report and in the USA our administration has added a tariff to any chemical components. It can be anywhere from .10 to $100’s of dollars. So anything with a chemical component is going up in price. That means : soap, bleach, automotive supplies, cleaning products , some medical supplies etc…

    I went today to buy a small container of Chlorine Tablets for our above ground pool and about fainted. $75 for a tiny little bucket.

    Anything you can buy today will not be cheaper for a long time, maybe never.

    Don’t go into debt but be very wise how you spend your money. I am adding anything we cannot do without or make our lives very uncomfortable without it top priority right now. Stuff will still be available later and probably at a reduced price when people need to sell things to buy food.

    Lynd

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    1. Dear Lynd, I think Coyottes would be a bit like foxes... foxes can dig and are pretty good climbers too. They are our number one problem with chickens. So the hen house must be fox proof or we have no hope. If the dogs are out I can let the chooks free range a bit but come evening they need to be secure or I would lose them all in one night.
      I take on jobs like you have with the wood... so much per day! This works!
      You are right about prices. Someone was saying they arent buying but waiting for prices to come down. Sorry but I dont think so I think what we buy now we will be so glad of! It is such a wake up call. Many things will seem frivolous and a waste compared to food. I am with you all the way! Many thanks, love Annabel.xxx

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  14. Annabelle,
    An extra post! What a wonderful post it is!
    I too, have experienced the blessings that come with tithing. A huge raise I didn’t even ask for!
    My daddy was little when the depression hit and his father left his mom with 4 little kids. My grandma was tough and she made it. Our family learned so much from those who toiled through it. It’s one of the things that made me want to be prepared.
    God is truly using you and you are mentoring so many on this difficult journey. May you and yours continue to be blessed mightily.
    Patti from California

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    1. That is amazing Patti! I loved hearing this. Thank you so much! xxx

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  15. Annabel this is what I call another classic Annabel post. I loved reading it, thankyou so much.
    Last night I was sitting on my couch, warm and snug, with my PJs, dressing gown and slippers on, enjoying an ice-cream with my wonderful partner, the cat asleep on his blanket at the end of the couch, about to watch one of the few programmes we are currently enjoying and I said "this is what it's all about. This is what I call the good life. I don't need expensive holidays,cars, clothes or nights out. I am content. Some great ideas and thoughts you have shared. I look forward to the next one.

    Mandy (NZ)

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    1. Dear Mandy, Thank you for your very kind comment. Contentment is an absolutely wonderful thing to be cherished. There are many who never experience it at all. I feel the same as you describe. Many thanks, Love Annabel.xxx

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  16. Thank you for the post Annabel. Very encouraging and a good reminder to look around and see all that we DO have and what a blessing it is.

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  17. A wonderful post! Both my husband and I were born of older mothers so our parents went through the Great Depression. My mother was also widowed in her 30s, leaving her with seven kids and no income. (She later married my dad and I was born.) I didn't realize growing up that I was learning how to cook with little money because it was just the way mom cooked. The only thing that changed was that she went out to eat now and then. But when I was little, my parents still raised chickens and had a large garden until they moved into town. I got a chuckle about the laundry, my washer and dryer are in my garage which is very cold in winter. But it is far better than getting out to go to the laundromat! Thank you for your continued writing, it is so encouraging.

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    1. Dear Branda, I feel for your Mum being widowed so young with seven children! What a woman she must have been! Yes a little laundry inside the house, a room all of its own is a blessing in itself! What is normal for some is just not the usual for most of the world! We have to make the most of what we have! With love and thanks Annabel.xxx

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  18. What a wonderful surprise to discover a "bonus" post! I Love It! I know you don't usually post more than once a week, but as I was clicking through my list of preferred blogs, I "accidentally" clicked yours, but I know it was not an accident at all. God leads us along, even when it comes to reading blog posts. I enjoy reading about your life, your family, your animals, your produce, as well as your foresight, insight, wisdom, and tips. Thank you, Annabel. ~ ~ Linda.

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    1. Dear Linda, Thank you for your very kind comment. I have another extra post on the way because I think it is timely and needed. I hope you will like it! With love Annabel.xxx

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  19. Part way through your post I felt convicted of my 'inaction' and I jumped up and began making fresh peach jam. I got 16 half pints and 1 pint jar, and froze three 2-cup bags of fresh peaches. We also enjoyed just eating some fresh. I suppose I need you to show up at my door every morning to tell me to get busy! Ha!

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    1. Well done Joy! Patti from California

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  20. This reminds me of the story of the widow’s oil in 2 Kings. Elisha told the woman to ask for empty jars, with the special instruction, “Don’t ask for just a few.” The woman was blessed with enough oil to sell to repay debts and live on what remained. The story encourages me that God will provide, and He does so in ways beyond our human understanding. God is good!

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    1. This is exactly right! I hope these verses encourage someone and Im sure they will! xxx

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  21. Found you on Facebook this morning...and just when I was thinking "I don't know why I am stockpiling all this food...everything seems fine right now, except the prices." Maybe I don't need to go to Aldi this morning after all. Guess I will make the planned Aldi run! Your posts are so wonderful. Wish we could be next door neighbors---but I do live in town. I could be your Mom---I am 75, but I just adore you from afar... Jane in Florida

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    1. Dear lejmom, Welcome! Thank you so much and thank you for commenting! You are still young! Yes please do stock up. I am here encouraging you! With love Annabel.xxx

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  22. Thank you so much for this encouraging post! I got busy in my home after reading! It's so fun to see how God multiplies our efforts in the home! This week I took some leftover ingredients and made a dessert for the family! We needed the snack, and it was such a good fit for what I had on hand! I'm trying to use what I already have on hand and make the best of our home and supplies! Thank you again for the sunshiny post!

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    1. Dear Stacy, Thank you! I love your comment about how God multiplies our efforts. I am going to remember this! Our efforts are rewarded! Thank you! Love Annabel.xxx

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  23. Dear Annabel,
    This is a wonderful and encouraging post. Thank you for the extra posts. Times are going to be increasingly difficult. Posts like yours are so helpful.
    I rather like a good challenge of turning what I have into a feast. I, also, like to use items for many other things than what they were designed for originally.
    With love,
    Glenda

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    1. Dear Glenda, Thank you so much! I am stepping up posts as we need to step up everything! I like the idea of treating it as a challenge! This is where our skills and creativity are so helpful! Thank you! Love Annabel.xxx

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