DeerLake Video Large

DeerLake Video, Autumn Color on Ashley Creek

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 2 Nov 2012 22:11:26 -0600

Now I have two Reliant Peach trees and one Polly Peach tree. I was a bit shocked to hear peaches grow good in Montana. Since then I have been working towards growing some. Today I expanded the fence around all three of them; used about 90 feet of wire. I did have individual fences that were 6 feet in diameter; but them pesky deer were reaching over for a nibble. This next summer I may see my first peaches. I can still remember 47 years ago, near Sacramento, just how wonderful it was to pick a ripe peach from our own trees.

I know, you may be thinking, November, and this nut is still gardening. I have never denied my love for growing plants and raising farm animals. Now I'm thinking, with this better fence, I have room for one more tree; I wonder what kind I should get?

I (Becca) spent the day at the art show in Kalispell today. The local nursery opened up two of their large greenhouses for a three day kick off to the holidays. The local artist from around NW Montana, all come together for this homegrown art show. It was one long day, but I loved it; meeting all the others artists around the area was great. There's a lot of talent out there locally, the assortment was truly amazing. Buying local right from the artist themselves lets you see the pride and hard work that goes into each piece.
Support your local artist this year, it brings the enjoyment back into holiday shopping.

Enjoy the serenity of the water in Ashley Creek (Video) and wind in the trees as we walk the trail around Kalispell Montana.
The Great Northern Historical Trail extends 6.5 miles from west of the city of Kalispell.

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Monthly Column by Tamara Hillman.
Guess life either builds you up, or tears you down,
but we old birds are toughened by it,

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Our hope is that by giving hugs this way,
people all over the world will take the
five-second challenge and give a hug.

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Take a bucket and fill it with water,
Put your hand in it up to the wrist,
Pull it out and.

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Recipes Below
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Steven's Taste of Italy Soup Recipe.

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Enjoy Becca's Orange Spice Upside-Down Cake Recipe.

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Thought for Today -

How can I ask for a hug?
Would you like a hug?
May I have a hug?
Do you need a hug?
I need a hug; would you mind?

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Dreaming of Peaches, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Patriot Night at the NW Montana Fair Rodeo

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 21:10:57 -0600

Lets all go to the rodeo! Becca and I had a wonderful time at our local Fair and Rodeo this year. Sure was great watching the cowboys and cowgirls riding their hearts out. You never know when you are going to catch something on camera that is truly amazing. Don't want to spoil it for you, but wait till you see what happens to this horse (video below). Lucky that the rider was already off.

Fall is the time of year when we really need to watch out for the bears around here. The neighbor told me black bears were enjoying his fruit trees. I said, "better than having those pesky bears in my garbage cans".

One year those dumb bears were trying to get into my garbage cans; instead of lifting off the plastic lid, they nearly shredded my rubber-maid can. Another time I left one garbage bag in the back of my pickup, you could clearly see that a bear covered in mud had climbed all over the truck before finding that one bag of garbage reward. In the past 20 years we have seen bears 3 times and picked up their left behind garbage mess 3 times. We feel the bears are no real problem around here. The Black Bears for the most part, pose no danger to people, pets, or livestock.
Can't say that about the wolves, what the heck were they thinking?

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers about our daughter and her family losing their house to a fire. They are all fine and have found a place to rent already. They were lucky enough to find a place close to the kids schools and friends. This will ease the burden of being separated from everything and everyone they are connected to.

Patriot Night at the NW Montana Fair Rodeo (Video),
designed to raise awareness of the need for rehabilitation and other services for the veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan as they return with their units and get back to their families.

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The Broken Mug.
One of my favorite coffee mugs was broken this week. Not sure how it happened. Just found it sitting there on the counter with the handle broken off.

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I awaken sleepily yawning
A bright new day is dawning,
Time to arise and greet the morn

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Pumpkin Cream Cheese Squares Recipe.

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Glenda's Crab and Grilled Corn Dip Recipe.

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Thought for Today - The secret of being HAPPY,
is excepting where you are in life and making the most out of everyday.

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Rodeo Kids, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Fall in the Rocky Mountains

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 22:49:41 -0600

Ken Ellison has been writing poetry for quite some time now. Poetry by Ken has recently become part of the DeerLake family. Reading through his poetry, you can really get a sense of the person he is, feeling both the sorrows and the joys through out the years. Perhaps you will enjoy checking out his whole site.

Travelling the Rocky Mountains this time of year lets you get up close with some of our magnificent wildlife. They are all on the move now, migrating from summer grounds to more hospitable country, suitable for the long winter ahead. Watching the antelope play and seeing the elusive wolves as they traverse the open fields. After living here for so many years, I'm still am in awe of the wild outdoors of Montana. Moose, elk, bear, turkeys and deer walk right by my house like they own this place. Then don't really cause any trouble, so we feel lucky to see them. Elk are perhaps my favorite visitors, they seem very shy and never stay long. We love to hear the bugling elk.

Is Your Hut Burning?

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This week, enjoy poetry by Ken.
If you listen closely you can just hear
Soft whispers of autumn drawing near,
September's song is beginning to chorus
The dawning of a brisk new season to us.

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Feeling Fall. (by Ken)
A peachy summer has flashed by
Chilled days and nights are nigh,
Autumn has shown it's fresh face,
Scenery is changing everyplace.

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Fall in the Rockie Mountains. (Video)
Traveling the Rocky Mountains in fall is quite an experience. The animals are bit more active this time of year, giving you a better chance at observing them in all their glory. As they move from higher summer habitat, to the lush fields of gold, readying themselves for the long winter ahead, you can catch glimpses of them in many of the fields around the Rocky Mountain Range.

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Recipes Below
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Becca made me some Zucchini Fudge brownies, with chocolate chips melted on top. Now I think I need another glass of milk. If you decide to make some, make sure have plenty of milk on hand. They are way good, just don't eat too much at one time.
Becca's Famous Zucchini Fudge Brownie recipe.

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Thought for Today -
I am not a perfect person, I make alot of mistakes...But still, I love those people who stay with me after knowing how I am.

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Hand in Hand, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Sunrise in Montana and Cowboys and Cell Phones

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 7 Sep 2012 21:51:17 -0600

Our 80 degree days are nearly gone. Such a nice time of year though. The garden is loaded this year, squash and pumpkins bigger than a basket ball. Amish tomatoes, strawberries, peppers, garlic, yukon potatoes, carrots and corn. Oh My! We might need a larger freezer. We purchased most of our seed this year from an organic gardening store, I think that we should be able to harvest the seeds and use for next years garden.

Three of this week's pages have nice videos. One of Montana sunrise scenes and what we wake up to every day here on our little farm; next a video of, life out on a ranch, in Montana. The Ranch Life in Montana video is definitely not to be missed. Sit on down with your favorite flavored coffee, put your feet up and watch this video twice. I think we enjoyed this video more than some of those rodeo videos.

This weekend is Grandparents Day. President Jimmy Carter signed into law the recognition of National Grandparents Day as the first Sunday after Labor Day. Since then, it has become a special time for grandkids to show their appreciation for the special role Grandma and Grandpa play in their lives. Send this video page to your grandkids, give them a little nudge to call.

The rising sunlight over highland crest, - (Sunrise Video).
Awakes the land from a peaceful rest,
Picturesque perfect is the grand event,
Trumpeting panorama's heavenly sent.

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Cool call Your Grandparents - (Video).
Grandparents contribute a special relationship to a child that no one else can give them.
They can always be counted upon to buy anything you're selling ...

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Grandparents, God's Gift to Children.
Once again a little child is leading, I had become so serious all I knew were tasks behind, and tasks ahead.

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Cowboy life - (Ranch Life Video).
you can see it more an' more—
his clothes are never dirty,
an' he don't git saddle sore.

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Recipes Below
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Becca's Famous Fresh Garden Salsa recipe.

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Enjoy Becca's Gingerbread Peach Upside Down Cake recipe.

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Glenda's Apple, Rosemary and Caramel Shortcake recipe.

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Thought for Today -
Half of what your worry about never happens and the other half happens for the best.

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Under Montana Sky, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 23:24:16 -0600

Zucchini, Yes, you know them things. We got um coming out our ears. Froze some, made zucchini relish, zucchini chocolate bread, fried up a bunch and have give it away every chance we get. Our 7 chickens like to eat the largest one each day. None has been wasted so far. We, or better I say I, accidental planted double what we meant to plant. When I planed them, I looked for the labels that I had put onto every pot, and I didn't see the label, so I just figured I would plant everything I had. Later I looked at the empty pots and I could see that if I had just turned the pots around, them dang labels were still there. Maybe I'll put labels onto both sides next year.

Three momma Turkeys came by with 30 babies yesterday. That is the most we have seen at one time. Nice to see them doing so well. Hey, maybe they would like some zucchini.

Been busy at the fair this week, yesterday they had the cookie decorating contest. Contestants decorate the cookies, turn them in to be judged and then they get to eat them. You know what is going through those little brains of theirs, more icing and more candy decorations on top. There was some full cookies if you know what I mean! Tomorrow they have a llama and alpaca costume show along with the judging, can't wait for those pictures.

One of my favorite places to be, Glacier National Park.
Trail of the Cedars (Video).
A Walk In The Park, Avalanche Lake Story.
The Trailhead is located along Going to the Sun Road, just east of the Avalanche Creek Campground.

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Joke.
"It's a planet," replied God.
"For example, northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth, while southern Europe is going to be poor.

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Warshing Clothes.
Go put on clean dress, smooth hair with hair combs.. Brew cup of tea, sit and rock a spell.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Fresh Veggie and Sausage Pizza.
With Homemade Crust Recipe.

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Glenda's Zucchini Baked Crispy Fries Recipe.

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Thought for Today -

If you want to leave your foot prints in the sands of time,
wear work boots.

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Enjoying Your Garden, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, The Event at Rebecca Farms

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 20:56:07 -0600

Becca has put together another nice video to enjoy.
In this video, I was shooting the equestrian event at Rebecca Farm, sitting at the hardest jump they had. Many riders could not make the jump, but don't worry, no one got hurt. Steven's mom went along also, we put a camera in her hands and let her loose. She did a great job and got some wonderful pictures; don't miss her video at the bottom of the page.

There were five days of Events to view, including Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping. Dressage shows a horse's ability to perform in a parade and also shows how well the horse and rider communicate. Cross Country seems the most difficult Event to me.

We are going to be making up a little zucchini relish this weekend. My nephew Lane and Steven have been letting me know in not to subtle of a way that it is that time again. I can't seem to make enough of either the salsa or the relish, will have to step it up a bit this year. Lucky for me, there is no shortage of zucchini or peppers this year.

An Unforgettable Experience. (two videos)
"The Event at Rebecca Farm"

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Summer Friends.
The blend of fall colors are lovely to see
But the leaving of summer saddens me,

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True Love.
Had to hold back tears as he left,
I had goose bumps on my arms, and thought,

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Apple Cherry Pie recipe.
With the first harvest of our new pie-cherry tree.
Simply delicious with the tartness of pie cherries.

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Becca's Buttered Almond Ice Cream recipe.
Best homemade ice cream I've had in a long time. The trick is to cook up a custard first, than freeze.

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Thought for Today -

Feeling down? Saddle up.

If your horse says no, you either asked the wrong question, or asked the question wrong.

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Enjoying Long Summer Days, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Deer In The Yard

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 21:45:19 -0600

It's like living on open range; every year horses come to pay us a visit. Sometimes two, more often though it's three or four horses, even up to seven at one time. I'm just in a quandary trying to figure out what to do about it. You see if I chase them off, then there could be an accident with a car or something. Don't want that. If I pen them up and start looking for the owners, then I'm setting a precedents and every time their horses go missing, they will come to my house looking for them. The problem is, those horses can eat all my flowers and all the small fruit trees in just minutes. We could fence them out, which would be quite a bit of money and time. Or we could call for them to be picked up by the authorities. Don't want to do either of these options.

On a good note of not having the whole acreage fenced, we have visiting momma deer and their babies, turkeys too. It's quite a delight watching as they romp around the yard. I love getting up in the morning and sitting out on the deck with a cup of coffee. This time of year is a delight in Montana. It smells so fresh and the sounds of squirrels and birds chirping and singing to one another is so peaceful. At that moment in time all is right with the world.

Well we took Steven's Mom down to Costco to get some hearing aids. Not knowing much about them ourselves, we were thinking that there couldn't be that much to it. Had them check the ears, ordered-up the hearing aids and waited for the miracle of hearing to occur. Well they came in on time, had them fitted and went on our way. After a few days and Mom not being able to tell any improvement, we went back to have them checked. The lady behind the counter told her that she just needed to get-used to them. A few more days go by and still nothing is better. We returned again to Costco to talk with another lady and was told they would have to be sent away and reprogrammed. She had also purchased the bluetooth devise that would allow the TV sound to come directly out of the aids. This was a mistake since we never could get bluetooth to work! The hearing aids never worked right and the bluetooth never worked at all. Well long story short, she ended up returning the hearing aids and she still can't hear very well.
Who would have known.
Everyone eventually needs them.
I would have thought they would be plug and play.

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Deer In The Yard.
A new video of baby deer coming by to play in the yard.

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Billions in Taxes. (Be sure to see the video)
The first week after receiving the bailout money, they spent $440,000 on a retreat at a luxurious California resort on your tax money.

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Granny Tam - Country Ramblin.
The grandkids are growing up, and making us great-grandparents now that they are marrying also. (Makes me feel old!)

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Integrity in Leadership.
Perhaps I could view them under my integrity fluoroscope.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Barbecue Salmon Steaks recipe.

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Glenda's Pickled Beet And Cabbage Slaw recipe.

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Thought for Today -

Keep a smile on your face and a song in your heart.
A smile - is a sign of joy.
A hug - is a sign of love.
A laugh - is a sign of happiness.
A friend like me? - Well that's just a sign of good taste!

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Hot weather, cool drinks, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Shining Stars

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 22:34:18 -0600

It's amazing how just a couple weeks of good weather has changed the garden. The garden is growing by leaps and bounds. We had to pull up the lettuce and bok choy today; there was more then we could eat. Steven tossed lettuce out into the yard and the momma deer brought her babies in to eat tonight. One of the does had twins, they are such a delight to watch bounce around the yard.

With the dry hot weather down south, both of our kids and their families are looking to move back to the cool weather of the northwest. Our son just received a ranger position in Bandon Oregon, quite a change from the Austin Texas area. And our daughter is looking into applying for her PHD, either in Washington or Montana. Would be nice to have them all live closer for a change.

Becca took two trips to Washington state in the last month, I think she done enough driving for a while.
A few weeks ago her mother turned 90. Everyone showed up for an amazing birthday party.
A few short days later, Becca's momma passed away. She was a kind lady with a smile and a hug for everyone.
This first page is dedicated to her.

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Dedicated to my Mother "Dorothy Lindstrom".
Mom was a shining star in the lives of her children, always there sharing in our triumphs and our trials.

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God is Real - by Joel T. Bailey.

Hear the call of the morning dove
And hear the tall pines sigh
Watch the soft white clouds
Float across the endless sky

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Lets Go Hiking in Glacier National Park.
Trail along St Mary's Lake. (video)
If you should surprise a bear, DO NOT RUN ! Walk slowly away, and
do not make eye contact

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Raspberry Rhubarb Dump Cake recipe.
This recipes has been updated with a video and photo.
Even the directions are much better now.

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Becca's Barbecue Bread recipe.
This one will really tempt the neighbors.
Ahh, the smell of fresh baked bread.
You don't even have to start the oven and heat up the house.
Perfect for these hot summer days.

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Thought for Today -

Roses are red,
Violets are blue;
But they don't get around
Like the dandelions do

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Summer is fine in Montana, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Rainy Pass, and A Simple Place In Time

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 6 Jul 2012 20:10:23 -0600

Hot Days Ahead! A reminder that pets and livestock need extra water to drink. My seven chickens are drinking nearly double their normal amount. And the dogs don't want to play outside for very long.

On the way over to the Washington coast, Becca took Hwy 20, the North Cascades Hwy. The first link below (Visiting Rainy Pass in Washington State) has a video that will bring you a few minutes of calm. They really did mean it when naming that road Rainy Pass, I have never been on that stretch of road when it wasn't raining at least a little.

We did enjoy the fireworks, but what about the effect on our environment. I for one, am totally ready to upgrade to laser light shows. It's time we give our air, land and water a break from all that pollution. On the Coulee Dam in Washington, they have a laser light show that we really enjoyed. The mix of lights on the water, with music and a narrated story really make the evening special.

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Visiting Rainy Pass in Washington State - Video

There was a time
Not long ago
Life was simple
Pace was slow.

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Be sure to check out the Video at the bottom.
Her family dog name is - Sinawolf (Seen a Wolf).

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Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies
(don't spend more than you earn),
reliable parenting strategies
(the adults are in charge, not the kids),

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Carnival Ice Cream Cake recipe.
A nice way to cool off on these hot summer days. Make up one of these cakes and invite over the neighbors.

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Glenda's Curried Cashew Roasted Cauliflower recipe.

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Thought for Today -
The freeway is quicker,
but the back roads are more interesting.

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Keep Cool as You Can, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Two Medicine and Running Eagle Falls

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 18 May 2012 21:22:27 -0600

Finally, most of Glacier Parks roads are open for visitors. Just had to get up there and see how things were going after a long winter. It's nice when you live close enough to one of our nations beautiful parks, that you can visit when ever you get a free day. My girl friend and I (Becca) had urge to go, go, go, so we went, went, went to Glacier National Park. Took a short hike, seen three nice water falls, and made it to one of my all time favorite places, Two Medicine. This place is always magic, hardly any humans around, but nature is loud and clear. I put together a video and a few photos for you, enjoy.

It's Armed Forces Day weekend, a good time to give a word of thanks to all those men and women out there working hard to secure our freedoms. Our oldest Grandson is now at Fort Benning GA for his basic training. Hard to believe that it has come to this, our fathers fought, our husbands and wives fought, our children and now our grandchildren. I pray for the day that a generation can grow up without the fear of war. Give them a call, write them a letter, let them know we appreciate all they are doing.

The mountains in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. (video)
are known as the "Backbone of the World" to the Blackfeet Indians,

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Salute to The Armed Forces Day.
Here's to the brave and the free!
With my hand on my chest as the flag passes by,
I remember what you did for me!!!

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Memorial Day Tribute, to members of the United States Armed Forces, (video)
who now rest in peace in Arlington National Cemetery -
set to the song - "Arlington" by Trace Adkins -
In honor of the Fallen Heroes of the US Army,
Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Reserves.

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Recipes Below
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Becca's Savory Cheddar Bread Recipe. (video)

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Glenda's Banana Blueberry Cream Pie Recipe.

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Thought for Today -
No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. Thank you.

All our love goes out to PVT Coltin Rapelje.

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Good to be Free, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Freezeout Lake Geese Migration

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 21:15:25 -0600

Sprucing up the place and getting ready for company season, Montana is a great destination place in the summers. Always looking for cute little ideas to decorate the yard. I heard about one idea I think we might want to try, might not be a bad idea if you try it also. It has to do with those solar lights everyone is getting for their gardens and patios, a few lights makes the nights much more inviting.
We are looking forward to going into Glacier National park for some springtime pictures. I hear that I might be able to get a few wolf shots and other baby critters. It's always a thrill when you come across the babies, it takes alot of patience to capture them on film. This month all the national parks around the country are having a free admission week between April 21st and 29th. Find a park close to you and get out there and enjoy it.

They like to refer to us as senior citizens,
old fogies, geezers, and in some cases dinosaurs.

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Freezeout Lake plays host to thousands of migrating birds every year. (Video)

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We stuck the solar light pipes into plastic water bottles

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Recipes Below
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Becca's Lighter Choice Raspberry Rhubarb Sauce Bread recipe.
Empty the freezer of last years berries, getting ready for this years crop.

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Glenda's Asparagus Cashew Rice Pilaf recipe.

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Thought for Today -
Life is one big game of chance, So Take It !!!

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Enjoying all Spring has to Offer, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Oops in the Pottery and Love Is A Flower

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 22:36:54 -0700

Howdy, we are really getting spoiled with the warm winter here in Montana. Tonight I heard about how cold it is in Europe and Russia right now, wow, I feel for those guys.
How about those Giants, we're not big football fans around here but we do watch a few games and always enjoy the highlights. A Superbowl party is always on our agenda every year, seems like a perfect excuse to spend time with friends. This year we are having a few friends over, we plan to paint up some pottery, then watch the big game and play a little cards, it's going to be a Hoot.

You know how people say, I've been so so busy? Well for us we really are busy. At the bottom of this letter there is a list of some of the web sites Becca and I have been creating since 1997. We built our first web site and soon after we began to realize that fun and inspirational would be our focus, now we have 30 sites that keep us pretty busy. Has been a labor of love, especially the part where we get to travel around Montana and other parts of the country to get those special photos and videos.

New Video, Steven Throwing a Large Pitcher on the Wheel.
Some Pottery Fun.

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by Tamara Hillman, Howdy folks, Well, February is here.

Of all the guys I idolized
when I was young and free—
You, Valentine, are that special one
who let me just be me.

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Love Is A Flower by Gerald R. Hill.

Like the seedling that gives
the flower its start,
so it is with the love
that begins in the heart.

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Recipes Below
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Glenda's Red White & Blue Cream Cheese Appetizer Spread Recipe.

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Enjoy Becca's Cherry Rhubarb Crunch Pie Recipe.
Cook this one for the full time, the rhubarb needs to get all the way done.
For those of you who have not tried the rhubarb, it is a little tart and blends well with most other fruits.

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Thought for Today - The best thing about telling the truth is that you don't have to remember what you said.

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Enjoy Superbowl Weekend, Steven and Becca

Here are other web sites that Becca and I have created.

Hand Made Pottery – Glacier National Park – My Bunny Farm – Doggy Fun – Angel Stories

Angel Personal Stories – Country Western Fun – Cowboy Fun – Good Clean Jokes

Cookie Recipes – Cake Recipes – All Kinds of Recipes – DeerLake Fun Videos

Promise of God – Fathers Hands – Fun Pages for Kids – Kids Story Book – Send a Smile

Romance – One of my Favorite Sites – Honor our Veterans

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video, Wintering in Glacier National Park

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:21:35 -0700

One thing about having chickens around is that each day you need to go out and collect the eggs. Today was the first day I got 7 eggs from 7 chickens in one day. Well, maybe I missed one yesterday, or maybe it's from giving them exactly 8 hours of darkness each night and a big heated chicken coop. I have always taken the well being of my farm animals seriously. See the Chicken House.

We spent much of our lives in western Washington, where there were few days with frost and the grass would grow nearly year around. Raising cows was one of my favorite hobbies. We would get week old calves straight from the dairy farmers for nearly nothing and bottle feed them. I used to spoil the heck out of them, a dry warm bed, lots of grain and oats, I even took them for walks. Now living in Montana, a dry warm bed sounds like a hard thing to do in the winter. The grass only grows for 5 months and the water freezes for 4 months. I really miss raising those Holstein gentle giants. Back then I gave each of our children their own cow. That was my way of getting them to help out with some of the chores. Each of them picked out the one they liked the looks of and gave them a name. I still remember the names, Starblazer, and Red (soon to become Big Red). Perhaps I didn't think this thru cause as with all beef cows, three years old is prime for beef. We waited till the kids were off to camp that year, then off to the auction they went. There were 5 cows in that batch, their two and three others. The money sure did come in handy, there may not have been much profit but it was a nice saving account for sure.

We just about have a full load of pottery ready to burn in the kiln today. Lots of mugs and a few odd ball bowls too.

Winter has come to Glacier National Park Video.
We have a new way to watch our videos, Google YouTube supplies this new player.
Notice the, Change Quality, button on the video, if you have good Internet speed you can change the quality to 720 and watch in full screen mode.
Might as well get the full effect.

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He thinks of you as his partner,
so take the good with the bad—
You've replaced his 'good timin' buddies,
for the best life he's ever had

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Mary and her husband Jim had a dog, Lucky.
Lucky was a real character.

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Recipes Below
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Glenda's Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Shrimp Recipe.

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Enjoy Becca's Oven Baked Mostacholi Recipe.

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Thought for Today -

I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.

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A Couple of Good Eggs, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video PRCA Rodeo at the NW Montana Fair

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 21:42:31 -0600

Halloween is this weekend, whether you believe in celebrating it or not, you can't deny that those little cuties in their costumes are a treat for sure.
Last year we had a couple visit with there two little ones dressed as a chipmunk and an acorn.

Lets have some rodeo fun. Every event is filled with danger and excitement. We always get as close as we can to the action so we can get good pictures and video.
Becca just finished making this new rodeo video, hang onto your hat while watching this one.

PRCA Rodeo Video.
Kalispell Montana Rodeo.
Steer Wrestling, Bull Riding, and best of all Muttin Bustin.

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Country Ramblin, by Tamara Hillman.
For me, it means another birthday around then too.
(Being another year older after thirty somehow loses its glory!)

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Angel Tomatoes.
Can't always tell by the outside appearance if there is an angel on the inside.

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Recipe Below
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Caramel Frosted Pumpkin Cookies.
Chewy and delicious, easy to decorate, make them spooky for a great Halloween treat.
Look along the left side for other cookie recipes.

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Broccoli is good for you, here is how to make it yummy.
Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe.

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Thought for Today,

You are a living magnet.
What you attract into your life is in harmony with your dominant thoughts.

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Ready for Spring, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video Pig Wrestling

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 21:56:45 -0600

Hang on to your hats, this week it's Pig Wrestling at the NW Montana Fair. If you don't laugh the first time thru, just watch it again.
I don't think I have ever seen so much fun in the mud before. Those kids jumped into that mud like they had been practicing all summer.
Needless to say, while shooting this video, Becca and I both got covered in mud. Also at the fair were the usual fun rides and all the good rodeo fun. I don't know how rodeos are in other parts of the country, but in Montana the whole town shows up to watch them.

New Pig Wrestling Video.
What could be more fun than rolling in the mud with a pig?

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Country Ramblins by Granny Tam.
Time to pick the last remnants of garden produce so moms can get their canning and preserving finished for the season. And let's not forget it's back to school for the kids… I know summer is great because,

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Earlier this week as I was taking my morning stroll around our small and cozy little town,
there was no mistaking the importance of the day.
It was the first day,

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Blueberry Ice Box Cake Recipe. Simple and so good on these hot summer days.

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From Kiss Recipes, Apple Loaf.
Lucky me, mine is just coming out of the oven.

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Thought for Today,
Don't be afraid of the space between your dreams of what you want to be, and the reality of what you are.
If you can dream it, you can make it so.

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Enjoy the Pig Show, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video Hummingbirds in Flight

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:39:18 -0600

Hummingbirds come in green and blue. This year we planted several different Hummingbird attracting flowers in the garden and didn't need as many feeders. The ones they seem to like the most was the Bee Balm. We really enjoy the looks of this flower, it grows like crazy and the flowers stay nice for a long time. Next year we plan to have several more patches of bright red and purple Bee Balm.

Montana State Fair is in full swing.
We will be there tomorrow, enjoying the pig wrestling, mutton bustin and rodeo fun. Yee-Haw!

New Humming Birds Video.
One good way to enjoy the company of hummingbirds is to plant a hummingbird garden. If you plan carefully and select a variety of plants that flower throughout the season, you will be rewarded with happy hummers all summer..

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If you can laugh at yourself, Check this one out.
It's that time of year to take our annual senior citizen test.
Exercise of the brain is as important as exercise of the muscles.

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God's Wake UP Call.
Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the
kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an
assortment of cups.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Salsa Chicken Wraps Recipe.

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DeerLake Cookie Recipes.
Apple Bars Recipe.

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Thought for Today,
I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.

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Enjoy Your Hummingbirds, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video The Event at Rebecca Farm 2011

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 22:05:09 -0600

Counting the days till my Mother gets here from San Diego. She is 78 years and driving up to Montana with just her dog. But that alone won't get you bragging rights around here. Becca's mother drives herself here and she is 89 years old. These two young gals should get together and share the driving. Sure will be nice to see her though, it has been quite a few years since she has been able to make the trip. There are always several things happening in the valley to see, shouldn't be hard finding things to amuse us. Spent last weekend at the equestrian event, they say that this is one of the largest horse events of its kind in the world.

Becca has put together this new Equestrian video.
The Event consists of three equestrian competitions, including cross-country jumping, show jumping and dressage. Starting July 21, more than 450 riders began the competition on the 200-acre site. We had a great time for three days, taking videos and watching these magnificent animals jump to perfection.

The Equestrian Event at Rebecca Farm, New Video.
is acclaimed to be one of the best in the country and many riders use it to advance to other events, including the Olympics, being held next year in London.

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And it was so.
God then created the monkey, and told him
You are monkey. You shall swing from tree to tree,

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The Potter's Wheel.
When you're troubled and discouraged
In the darkness of the night
When obstruction clouds your vision
And you just can't see the light.

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Recipes Below
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Becca's Jambalaya Rice Casserole Recipe.

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Glenda's Pickled Beet And Cabbage Slaw Recipe.

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Thought for Today,
There is just as much horse sense as ever, but the horses have most of it.

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Dreaming of Horses, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

Deerlake Video Spring Chickens, Should I Go or Should I Stay

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 8 Jul 2011 21:53:54 -0600

This week Becca has put together a new video about our 44 chickens. Man, do they grow up fast, it's only been 7 weeks and they are looking near full size. We plan to only keep 8 of them for fresh eggs. Perhaps keep 2 hens of each breed and one rooster for an alarm clock. The rest will go into the stew pot.
How about the looks of that fine chicken coop? Just didn't look right till we added the wagon wheel. It still needs to have the nesting boxes built for the inside, but don't think I'll need those till about December. We live out in the countryside of Montana and have to worry about predators, but so far having the chickens has been easy and fun. You can see in the video that we did put up some good fences to keep them safe.

Enjoy this week's light hearted new pages.

Good Clean Lawyer Joke.
Seems more like an insurance joke to me.

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In this fun bunch of checkers games,
you can play many different kinds of checkers.
Extreme Checkers or Give Away or Standard Checkers.

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New Video - Spring Chickens.
A fun video of our dog and 44 chickens.
Rode Island Reds, New Hampshire Reds, Barred Rock, and White Rock Chickens.

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Recipes Below
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I made this Turkey Cabbage Patch Soup recipe today using fresh bok choy from the garden in place of the Cabbage.

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Steven is busy right now picking the fresh strawberries for this wonderfully moist Strawberry Dream Cake recipe.
This is the best part of gardening.

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Thought for Today,
My father asserted that there was no better place to bring up a family than in a rural environment.... There's something about getting up at 5 a.m., feeding the chickens, and milking a couple of cows before breakfast that gives you a lifelong respect for the price of butter and eggs.

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Watching Them Chickens Run, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

DeerLake Video Oregon's Covered Bridges

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 22:47:32 -0600

Oregon...now there is a fun state to visit. The ocean, waterfalls, and awesome covered bridges. I took my mom and traveled around Oregon for 3 days. Today I put together a video of some of the highlights we saw. Lucky for us, my brother lives in Cottage Grove Oregon and showed us around . If you have not visited the coasts of Washington and Oregon, I highly recommend you give it a try. Riding the ferries in Washington state is a joy not to be missed. Check out a fantastic seafood lunch at the Rockaway Beach in Oregon. Visiting the Sea Lion Caves and just running barefoot in the sand, was simple and enjoyable, that's what life is all about.

New Oregon Video with Covered Bridges.
Stewart Covered Bridge.
Built in 1930 and restored in 1996, this structure has semi-circular portal arches, ribbon openings at the eaves, and decorative S-curve brackets. The deep water below the bridge is considered one of the best swimming holes in the county.

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Dear Daddy.
I thank God every night for you, Daddy.
I'm the luckiest kid in the land.
For I know that you practice, in earnest,
The life of a Godly man.

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Dad's Backyard Barbecue Apron.
A dad is someone who wants to catch you before you fall but instead picks you up, brushes you off, and lets you try again. A dad is someone who wants to keep you from making mistakes but instead lets you find your own way, even though his heart breaks in silence when you get hurt.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Daffodil Upside Down Cake Recipe.

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Try Glenda's Lime and Pineapple Jell-O Recipe.

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Thought for Today,
The work will wait while you show the child the rainbow, but the rainbow won't wait while you do the work.

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Happy Father's Day, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell Montana

Deerlake Video Pond Skimming on Whitefish Mountain

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 13 May 2011 22:01:09 -0600

Howdy all you fine folks out there, we been busier than a dog with flees. The new chicken coop is built and ready for 45 chickens to arrive next week. All the fence posts are in for our new one acre of pasture. After 15 years we have finally cleared the trees off of two acres now. We sure do enjoy having animals so this will be a big help. Our garden has more than doubled in size this year. We put large wooden boxes for raised beds on the new garden spot that was all covered in grass. We filled the boxes with extra good soil and plan to grow melons, squash, pumpkins and cucumbers that will grow out of the boxes and trail over the grass. You know, a place to grow those things that take up too much room in the garden!

This week we have a new video that is CRAZY FUN. So put on your happy hat and enjoy our new fun video.

Pond Skimming Video, at Whitefish Mountain.
Celebrate the end of the ski season at this wild and wacky event.
The competition is open to all competitors.

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Beauty Tips For The Soul.
People, even more than things,
need to be restored, renewed, revived,
reclaimed, and redeemed;
Don't give up.

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Bookends of Life.
In life, we have two bookends,
A beginning and an end,
Whereby, our lives do blend.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's, Banana Squares Recipe.

Another good flavor, Mint Brownies Recipe.

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Thought for Today -
I have a mind like a steel trap.
Stuff gets in there and WHAM!
it never gets back out again.

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Smiles, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59904

DeerLake Video Little White Church

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 21:44:40 -0600

Good thing I drove across the country while gas prices were still a little cheaper. I did see many states that I had never been to before. The zip line at Shepherd of the Hills, was the thrill of my vacation. Reminds me of my motorcycle days. The thrill of going fast and feeling the wind blowing through your hair. They strapped all three of us in the chairs and sent us down at the same time. We were all a little nerves at first but once they opened the gate and sent us on our way it was quite thrilling, it was a memory that will last a life time. Yes, I would definitely do it all again.

This week I put together another video for you to enjoy. All of this video was taken during our time in Missouri.
I call this video, Little-White-Church.
It first began as a simple brush arbor across the road; but as Fall approached, they realized the need for a more permanent building. This church was constructed from the native sycamore logs cut and hauled by local residents.

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Peaceful Sunrise.
Easter is coming up. Where will you be watching the sunrise this Easter?
Jesus was born on Christmas and He arose from the tomb on Easter.

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Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection? I never noticed this....
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside.

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Inspirational Easter Story.
At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn.
His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Holiday Recipes.
Find good Desserts, Salads, Breads, and Main Dish recipes.

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Glenda's Grilled Leg of Lamb with Merlot Butter Recipe.

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Thought for Today - There are hard-times and times of play,
So praise God for every happy day.

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Happy Easter, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59904

DeerLake Video Mountain Snows

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 21:49:51 -0700

Now what's this I'm hearing about the microwave ovens being bad. We all try to eat healthy and then someone comes up with these scary ideas. Of course melting plastic into your food is not a good idea. OK, it's time to do some research, if you have already done your homework about microwave ovens, give me a shout, I'm not giving up mine till I get better informed about the dangers? We have our grandson here visiting for a couple of months. Hopefully the snow will go away soon enough that we can get the chicken coop and fencing done before he leaves.
Nice to have him here to help us out.

Spring time must be near, you can almost hear the birds singing.

God and his Divine Plan ensures everything will be just fine.
Today, when I awoke, I suddenly realized that this is the best day of my life, ever!

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Have a Happy Winter.
Jack Frost is written by Verna Parks.

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New DeerLake Video.
Views of the Mission Mountains over Polson Montana.
Winter snows in Glacier National Park.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Bacon and Tomato Spaghetti Recipe.

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Glenda's Apple Raspberry Crisp Recipe.

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Thought for Today - Life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds if green vegetables smelled as good as bacon.

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Enjoying what we have, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,
Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59904

Deerlake New Years Video

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 21:50:24 -0700

Who is in charge of this weather anyways? Here in Montana we are getting feet of snow. And now we are promised an Artic Blast of cool air. Sure would be nice to make it to the store one more time for more groceries. Oh well, the freezer is full of good stuff. And lucky us, the electric power is on and our pottery room is nice and warm. What fun pottery art shall we make next? I do enjoy trying to make something big. Becca and I work on most pottery pieces together, I do much of the basic building, and Becca does the delicate art work.
A pretty dern good team we are.

Montana Christmas Video.
Here we are deep in snow.

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Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!!
Celebrate to the fullest this whistle-blowing, toast-raising moment,
for it is the threshold between the old and the new.

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A good laugh can be very good medicine.
Make a genuine effort to stay in closer touch with family and friends.

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The glory of Christmas 2010 is that He lives and still gives and He is asking for your 'all'.....

When you give Him your heart, He will give you new life....

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe.
Oh Yummy.
It's like doubling the peanut butter flavor in every bite.

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Glenda's Bacon Wrapped JalapeÑo Shrimp Recipe.

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Thought for Today -
When courage is needed, ask yourself, "If not me, who?
If not now, when?"
Walk tall, and smile more.

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May 2011 see you rich in LOVE, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59904

Thank You for Stopping By.

DeerLake Video Water Springs Life

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 21:49:28 -0700

Ya know how we all stumble along thru life, not knowing what really makes us happy. Well the rivers and lakes in Montana run clean and that makes my day every time I see them. Becca has put together another beautiful movie for your viewing pleasure. This new video shows water from around Glacier National Park. Was fun to shoot the video and it's always a joy to see the final movie.

Around Montana the temperatures are suppose to dip below 0 degrees next week. So its time for my winter reminder, lets make sure our friends and pets are warm and cozy too.
Enjoy your family and friends this Thanksgiving, remember that the holidays are not about rushing around to get everything just perfect. It is about a relaxing peaceful visit with those we love.

Water Springs Life, New Video.
Glacier National Park.
Give it a few minutes to start running.

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A Thanksgiving to Remember by Tamara Hillman.
They questioned not their mission but strived to meet the task,
and questioned not their Maker of what they had been ask.

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Thanksgiving Friendship.
A golden, glistening bird proudly sits in the center of the dining room table,
as grandma calls everyone to dinner.
Eight-year-old Jennifer happily brings her four month old sister.

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Gather up the kids and tell them about the history of Thanksgiving.
The First Thanksgiving.
When the Pilgrims crossed the Atlantic Ocean in 1620, they landed on the rocky shores of
a territory that was inhabited by the Wampanoag ( wãm pa nō'ag ) Indians.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Cranberry Cheesecake Bar Recipe.
An easy holiday treasure.

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Glenda's Apple - Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe.

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Thought for Today - Thanksgiving—our tradition, was started on that day
reminding us to gather in joyfulness and play
with friend or foe to thank God for blessings He has given,
and ask him each and every day to prepare a place in Heaven.

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Put an extra log on the fire , Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

DeerLake Video Enjoying the Color of the North Cascades Hwy

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 21:39:54 -0600

Today we planted our first ever fruit trees, one cherry tree and two apple trees. We dug really big holes, added in lots of peat moss and fertilizer. Can't wait till we can be eating our own tree ripened fruit. Soon we will be getting our first good cold snap, can always count on it the last weekend in October . Our wood burning furnace has a small fire going already, nothing could be finer than feeling the warmth of a fire and the smell of canning in the kitchen.

Have you ever been over the North Cascade Hwy, in Washington state? We just came across and the fall colors were just perfect As we drove slowly across we did make some stops to enjoy the scenery. Becca has put together another interesting video of our journey.

Enjoy this week's new video,
Fall Color Along The North Cascade Highway
of Washington State.

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With all these things of beauty
To hear, see and feel
How could anyone ever doubt
That God is surely real

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There’s one more thing I gotta say
‘bout EVIL in this world,
“Ya don’t kill a grizzly with sweet talk,
an’ screamin’ like a girl.”

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Apple Cider Doughnut Holes recipe.

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Glenda's Apple Raspberry Crisp Recipe.

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Thought for Today - The greatest mistake of all is to be in constant fear of making a mistake.

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Take Care of One Another, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

DeerLake Video with The Alphorn Trio

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 22:16:39 -0600

Fall is our favorite time of the year. The days are cooling down and everything seems at peace in the world. Fall colors are happening now. I always feel I must find some fall colors and capture them in photos and movies. Be sure to take a drive and if you get any great color photos, send them our way.

Becca has put together another interesting movie for you to enjoy. Alphorns, I don't think we really knew what an Alphorn was until now. The trio plays their horns in Glacier National Park in the summer months. The echo off the mountains really make you feel as if you were in the Swiss Alps. They say the calmer the water, the more echo you will get.

Listening to the Alphorns in Glacier National Park.
What a treat, Montana's Alphorn Trio.
The alphorn is a remarkably simple instrument. It consists of a long flaring spruce tube with a mouthpiece--and that's it.

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Pennies From Heaven.
You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck, gifts from angels, etc.

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House Behind the House.
Ours was a three-holer, with a size for every one.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe.
A surprisingly moist and delicious cake, made from those zucchini squash that just won't stop growing.

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Glenda's, Honey and Apple Grilled Chicken Recipe.
Save time on this recipe by marinating the chicken the day before.

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Thought for Today - Remember to forget the troubles that pass your way, BUT NEVER forget the blessings that come each day.

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Enjoy Everyday, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

Deerlake Video North American Indian Days Powwow

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 3 Sep 2010 22:08:01 -0600

      Happy Summer Everybody! I just made 27 quarts of hot spicy salsa. Sure is nice to can up your own healthy food. And the taste is so much better than store bought. Nearly burned my mouth off with all the tasting I had to do. Wish you could all stop by for some chips and hot salsa dip.

     Get your dancing shoes on, time to enjoy another great Indian Powwow. Becca has put together another new video, this time the action is wild and colorful. The celebration in Browning, Montana, is always held the second week in July for four days. It is an intriguing way to see authentic Blackfeet traditions.

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     I always stay positive by the facts that, we have freedom of speech, and freedom of vote. Between the two we should be able to elect honest leaders to run the government. Enough said, click here and see who is running next time around.
There is a place here so you can leave your own comments. Perhaps together we can come up with a solution.

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     Planning your next vacation? We have just the spot for you!
There just isn’t any place like Glacier National Park. And there is a Lodge to call home, while you’re here. Let me tell you about it.

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Country fun with Granny Tam.
Tamara Hillmans monthly column.
I’ve been busier than a flea on a dog’s hind leg.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Simple Cookie Recipe.
With our healthy homemade cookie recipes, we make it simple for you to bake your favorites or try new ones.

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Glenda's Rolled Pork Roast with Mushroom Stuffing Recipe.

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Thought for Today - Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground....

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Enjoy your Hot and Spicy Summer, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
115 Whitetail Crossing
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

Cross Country at Rebecca Farm 2010

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 21:40:23 -0600

Let's have some fun. This week we have another new video for ya, check out Cross Country horse jumping. We had a great time watching this event. Becca added in a little music too. I think your gonna have a good time with this Gid-E-Up video.

Cross Country Video.
Top horses and riders competed Thursday July 22nd through Sunday July 25th in one of 12 stops on the equestrian World Cup tour.

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The road ahead is
long and winding,
But our dreams are young
and our love is shining.

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Holland Falls Montana Video.
Ronald Butcher playing the harmonica,
while Steven and Becca hike to Holland Falls.

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Glacier National Park Vision of the Past.
Many many years ago, long before this beautiful peaceful place was called Glacier National Park, the Blackfeet Indians lived here and called this home.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's All Day Pasta Salad Recipe.

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It's apple time, and this is one cake that will be a hit at any get together.
Becca's Candy Apple Cake Recipe.

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Thought for Today - No matter what this world hands me
I’m in my Father’s hands
‘Cause Heaven’s in my future
For Him I’ll make my stand

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Enjoy Your Garden, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you again by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

Wooden Heart Ronald Butcher playing the Harmonica

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 6 Aug 2010 19:25:26 -0600

Holland Lake is a very large lake that most Montanans don't even know about. At the end of the lake there is a nice hike to Holland Falls. It has a fantastic over view of lake and mountains, and the waterfall pretty good also. Finding this lake turned out to be one of my best days ever. Hope I can say that for all the next new lakes we find. Enjoy our new video today of Holland Falls, along with a good friend of ours playing the harmonica.

The raspberries are ripe and the rest of the garden is looking pretty fine. Like every year, August means smoke and fires. Just a few burning around here so far. Wonder why our rich country don't invest in a fleet of 747s built just for water tankers. An American built fleet would make for a few good jobs also. Now they have put a ban on the fire retardants that have been used so much. Doesn't take a genius to know that water is the better choice.

New Video, Holland Falls Montana.
Ronald Butcher playing the harmonica,
while Steven and Becca hike to Holland Falls.

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The Garryowen Video,
with Ronald A Butcher on the Harmonica.

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COUNTRY RAMBLIN'S
by Tamara Hillman.
Hottest but greatest month of the whole dern summer!

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Huckleberry Pie Recipe.
Montana residents enjoy picking the huckleberries alongside the bears.
It's a race to see who can get there first.

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Glenda's Apple Cheddar Biscuit Recipe.

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Thought for today - A man trying to understand the nature of God asked him, "God, how long is a million years to you"?
God answered, "A million years is like a minute."

Then the man asked, "God, how much is a million dollars to you"?
And God replied, "A million dollars is like a penny."

Finally, the man asked, "God, could you give me a penny"?
And God said, "In a minute."

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Stay Safe and Happy, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

The Event at Rebecca Farm Dressage 2010

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:16:02 -0600

(Dressage) is occasionally referred to as "Horse Ballet".
We have put together a fun video of Dressage. These beautiful horses look like they are showing off. The riders, while using minimal commands to the horse, get these horses to perform many things, all the while these performances look to be relaxed and appearing effortless.

Dressage Event at Rebecca Farms.
New Video.

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Lucky's Toy Box .
Mary and her husband Jim had a dog, Lucky.
Lucky was a real character.

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The lights dim and everyone patiently awaits
The Master's Touch.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
You'll find this one in our keep it simple section.

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Glenda's Peach Cobbler Recipe.

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Thought for Today : Life is more accurately measured by the lives
you touch than by the things you acquire.

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Share Love, Steven and Becca

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

Holland Lake Montana, Mountain Memories

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 21:17:55 -0600

Holland Lake Montana. This large lake is one of the hidden treasures of Montana. There are so many nice lakes to visit, it's as if no one knows it is even there. Boy, I would love to have a summer home there. This week Becca has put together a real nice movie about Holland Lake. I'm sure you're going to love the views that surround this majestic lake. Enjoy!

Holland Lake Video.
Where else on earth can you find such beauty and solitude as this 400 acre lake just minutes from main stream Montana.

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Change is Good.
Life can be rough but it can also be wonderful. It really comes down to the way we handle it all.

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Keep On Swimming.
The one was wise, and a cheery soul.
The other one took a gloomy view.

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Recipes Below
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Enjoy Becca's Ice Box Cake Recipe.
I have found many different varieties but this is the one that my family has enjoyed for years.

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Glenda's Raspberry Pear Dumpling Recipe.

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Thought for Today - The chief beauty about time
is that you cannot waste it in advance.
The next year, the next day, the next hour
are lying ready for you,
as perfect, as unspoiled,
as if you had never wasted or misapplied
a single moment in all your life.
You can turn over a new leaf every hour
if you choose.

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Happy Trails to You, Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Thank You for Stopping By.

DeerLake Video Reflections Life's Echo

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 01:47:27 -0600

Sometimes you can find perfectly beautiful nature scenes where you least expect them. Last week Becca and I took a hike by some small lakes. The destination of the hike, (while indeed beautiful) was not the object of today's video. Sit back and enjoy our new movie, reflections of nature all around us.

And to all you Dads out there, Have a Happy Father's Day.

New Video, Morrell Lake.
Life's Echo.

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Advice from Dad.
I thought about it careful like
and it seems quite plain to me.

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Dad's Boots.
I gently held my father’s hand
while sittin’ near his bed,

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Enjoy Becca's, Banana Split Cake Recipe.

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Glenda's, Sweet Potato, Apple & Spinach Salad Recipe.

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Thought for Today -
Long-range goals keep you from being frustrated by short-term failures.

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May All Your Echoes be Kind Ones, Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Support for DeerLake comes from our DeerLake Store,
www.deerlakestore.com

Wondermugs, Neckties, Teddy Bears and Hats.
The DeerLake Store Has them all.

DeerLake Video Some Gave All, A Memorial Day Tribute

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 14 May 2010 22:30:04 -0600

This week we have another nice video. Enjoy scenes of Glacier National Park and a new Memorial Day song. Tony Mullins, the guy who wrote this song, did so in 20 minutes. The words are so nice to hear, that it seems as if it were an old favorite after just hearing it once. Some day it could become the national Memorial Day song.

Hey, next week we should have corn pop-in up in rows. We planted a special kind of corn this year called, Maple Sugar Corn. May go good on pancakes. (smile)

Tomorrow is the local farmers market. Only items made or grown locally are allowed to be sold. It's a great way to support your local neighbors and a nice place to shop.

Enjoy sites of Bowman Lake and Idaho Falls while listening to "Memorial Day" written by Tony Mullins and sang by Cary Rutledge as a Tribute to our fallen heroes.

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Kootenai Falls,
And Memorial Day Video.

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Mothers are always special, not just on Mother's Day.

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Enjoy Becca's Blueberry Raspberry Upside Down Cake Recipe.

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Glenda's Apple Cherry Pie Recipe.

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Thought for Today - Learn all you can,
"An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."

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Armed Forces Day this weekend and Memorial Day Next weekend. Plan something special.
Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Support for DeerLake comes from our DeerLake Store,
www.deerlakestore.com

Wondermugs, Neckties, Teddy Bears and Hats.
The DeerLake Store Has them all.

DeerLake Video Zion National Park

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 23:07:22 -0600

Enjoy all the little things in life, let spring time bring a smile to your face. The appearance of the Humming birds, the sound of children playing outside, or the peace you get when sitting on the deck on quite spring day.

Zion National Park is located in southern Utah. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days checking out the sites with my friend, Rita. We hiked the Emerald pools, the Narrows, and Weeping rock. The trails that we decided to hike were all paved for the first mile or so. It's a wonderful place for all ages to enjoy. If you are looking to visit Zion, make sure that you catch the Kolob Canyon area on the western side, most people seem to miss this part of the park.

New Video, Zion Park.
Becca and friend Rita at Zion.

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Tax Time.
A tax assessor came one day to a poor Christian to determine the amount of taxes he would have to pay.

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We're on a one-track Christian train,
It's numbered 3:16;
Jesus is the Engineer,

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Enjoy Becca's Red Velvet Cake Recipe.
Frost cake with cream cheese frosting and dust with red dyed sugar.

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Glenda's, Banana Blueberry Cream Pie Recipe.
Chill cream pie for 1 hour before serving.

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Thought for Today - I believe that all National Parks should be Free for everyone.
Paid for with taxes and free entrance.

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Exercise and Fun make the world go around,
Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
115 Whitetail Crossing
Kalispell MT 59901

Support for DeerLake comes from our DeerLake Store,
www.deerlakestore.com

Wondermugs, Neckties, Teddy Bears and Hats.
The DeerLake Store Has them all.

DeerLake Video and Weekly Letter, Gentle Rain

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:27:18 -0700

Last week we talked about the return policy of the Home Depot store. One viewer pointed out that Lowes often wants to give you back store credit instead of your money back. Always seemed fine to me, cause sure as the dickens, something gonna need fixin soon.

This week Becca has put together another great video. Be sure to turn your speakers up and enjoy music. Friends of ours, Iris and Ray Jones, have a magnificent flower garden. They have been perfecting their Dahlias for many years. As you will see in this video, their flowers are suitable for framing.

Flower Garden Video. Music is, Gentle Rain.
Sit back and enjoy the show.
I would like to dedicate this one to the many in Haiti who have suffered so much.

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As I was not familiar with the backwoods,
I got lost; and being a typical man I didn't stop for directions.

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Recipes Below
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These are simply wonderful.
Good Apple Pie Muffin Recipe.

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One of my all time favorites, No Bake Chocolate Cookies, Yummy!
Cook um up for your Valentine.

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Thought for today -
Great opportunities to help others seldom come our way,
but small ones surround us daily.

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Longer Days are just around the corner.
Love and Flowers, Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Support for DeerLake comes from the DeerLake Store,

Do you need a Teddy Bear? Perhaps you know someone that does. These cute guys are just perfect for Valentine's Day, which is coming up really soon. White Bear with red hearts on the paws. 18 inch good size, soft and cuddly.

DeerLake Video Buckin Bronco

stevenbeccavideo@deerlakemail.com (Steven and Becca, Deerlake Designs) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:15:29 -0700

Do you need a Teddy Bear? Perhaps you know someone that does. These cute guys are just perfect for Valentine's Day, which is coming up really soon. White Bear with red hearts on the paws.
Heartly Teddy, 18 inch good size, soft and cuddly.

Row-D-E-Os, I think they are great. Just wish they could be longer. In our small town there are three places to see rodeos all summer long. Hard to imagine what them cowboys put themselves through, buckin horses, ridin the bulls, barrel racing, steer wrestling. Of course my favorites are the ones with the kids, mutton bustin, chicken chase, palomino horse mount. Becca has put together another video of last year's rodeo fun.

Soon we also have the winter rodeo to attend. A little snow and cold can't keep us down.

Enjoy the Buckin Bronco Rodeo Video.

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The good times. Sitting with Grandma telling stories
and being wrapped up in one of her quilts.
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Here is a hint on how to win at checkers,
instead of going for control of the sides, go for control of the center.
Play Checkers Game.

Fancy New Chess Game, it's you against the computer.

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Recipe Below
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Becca's Raspberry Pie Recipe.
Steven really loves his raspberries.

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Thought for today -

Friendship
By J.A. Heitmueller

Selected by a loving heart and sown with tender care,
the seeds of friendship yield a bloom of beauty that is rare.
'Midst rain of tears and sun of smiles it flourishes and grows;
fraught with a bond of love, joy, trust only true friendship knows.

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Rodeo Dreamin, Becca and Steven

This DeerLake weekly letter is brought to you by,

Steven and Becca Rapelje
Kalispell MT 59901

Support for DeerLake comes from the DeerLake Store,
www.deerlakestore.com

Grab a mug of nice warm cider and settle in for the winter.
New Wondermugs for all.

http://www.deerlakestore.com/wondermugs/