Life at a "Swell's" pace

This dragonfly.

Because Skylar caught it. We let it go once we were done exploring it.

These quotes and sayings.

Because it's fun to find little inspirational quotes in random places. The fun of these sayings and quotes is how they brightened my day a little.

This tomato container.

Because I realized, after the tomatoes were gone I could use this little container for something wonderful later .

This little butterfly.

Because he fluttered about my office with such grace, I just had to share his beauty on SNORTH.

My son's room.

Because I have learned that a child's room doesn't have to be perfect, nor does it have to be spotless. Let's face it, one day all of this will be missed.

Random Photo This Week:

Jeff's certification for his Firefighter I training.

Eco-Tip: Take time to learn about life when we didn't depend on electronics, electricity, self-serve, or even fast food. Find out what life was like without all of this and then start to appreciate what you do have. Life made more simple is the best way to life green. For this and other tips on living a greener lifestyle visit, The Earth and Me Go Green.

These cookies are super delicious and perfect for holidays coming!

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• 1/4 tsp. salt

• 3/4 cup organic butter, softened

• 3/4 cup organic sugar, granulated

• 3/4 cup firmly, packed brown sugar

• 2 organic eggs

• 1 tsp. real vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup hot water

• 1/2 cup bran cereal

• 1 cup organic dried cranberries

• 1 (8oz.) pkg. semi-sweet, organic chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375°. In a medium bowl stir together the dry ingredients and set aside. In a large bowl mix together the wet ingredients. Mix the dry ingredients with the wet stirring constantly and let rest 5 minutes.

Drop on a cookie sheet in rounded teaspoons, that's been covered with parchment paper. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown on top. Cool on wire rack and serve warm or store in an air-tight container.

Makes approximately 4 dozen cookies.

Eco-Tip: Instead of reaching for a Styrofoam cup or paper cup, reach for a mug instead. There is over 25 billion Styrofoam cups thrown into landfills yearly and over 400,000 paper cups.[1] For this and other tips on going green visit, The Earth and Me Go Green.