Out with the Old and in with the Older?

At least that is what happened with our washing machine. Its not that old but seems to be a lemon of sorts. When the parts to fix it outweighed the price of a good used machine we let it go to the curb. I discovered I am spoiled! I love having a washing machine and dryer to use whenever I want. For almost 3 weeks I hauled the laundry to a friends washed it and hauled it home to dry it. We found a nice used one this past week. I think its about the same age or older as the one we just put on the curb...but it works well. In the process of finding the machine we also made new friends! The family who had the machine go to our church.
We had family here again this week. Lots of fun! Sure do enjoy getting to know the grand baby.

In our home school we have begun quarter 2 already. Discovered we need to work harder to stay on schedule. So many distractions! ( and the holidays are not even here yet!)
Had our first fire in the fireplace today. I guess that marks the beginning of the cold weather for us.

Here is a yummy treat from our kitchen. Its rich. Don't skimp on the butter or cream cheese. Enjoy it!
Banana Nut Bread
This amazing bread is like a buttery rich pound cake!
Makes 2 regular 4 by 8 loaves. Bake at 350 for 1 hour or until center comes out clean.

3/4 c butter, softened ( use real butter...it taste soooo much better)
8 oz   cream cheese, room temperature
2 c     sugar
2 lg eggs
1 1/2 c mashed ripe bananas
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 c all purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 c chopped pecans,
Be sure to oil the baking pans. Cool before removing from pans.