Sentiments by Sophia

extraordinary

I didn't spend much time watching the news of Oklahoma on the first day and a half of recovery because it made me cry.  For some reason, my tears have been extremely close to the surface for the past few weeks...more than normal!  Remember, I cry over Pepsi commercials!  But, usually, the next day it is much more uplifting... stories of people helping people, people rising to the occasion, miracles... those are wonderful to watch.  This little boy's next door neighbor was sent to pick him up because his parents were working an hour away.  These neighbors call each other "Big Dawg" and "Little Dawg" and are close friends.  What a blessing this neighbor was for his friends.  

I have been touched listening to the kids' prayers for the people in Oklahoma. It's a beautiful thing to hear your children care for others, especially when others are suffering mightily and we sit in the comfort of our own own home.  The whole situation brings to memorys the F-5 tornado in Iowa that our friends experienced five years ago.  How grateful I am that they were able to survive the disaster.  Continued prayers to all who are affected by this nightmare.

A few other ramblings:

Today, ZJ went off to her swim party.  It is 70 degrees for a high.  She was freezing sa he walked out the door, but that won't stop them from enjoying their day, I'm certain. One more week of school.

I keep tracking my keyboard.  It is in SLC today!  Finally.  In the meantime, I type out one sssssssssss and get ten time that many.  I'm just keeping them in front of the text and picking one up when I need it.  The A key is working this morning,  so I thought I'd try it.  Please pass the new keyboard here and installed AsAP.  

Regarding the Jodi Arias trial... Now that they the jury has found her guilty and are in the penalty phase, I've not cared one way or the other... life without parole or the death penalty  is in the hands of the jury and I'm glad I'm not on the jury.  BUT.  After her post-verdict behavior with all of the interviews and continued disrespect of the victim and his family, I just want it to end, for her to be locked away, out of the media frenzy/torment to the family that she continues to create.  My personal opinion... she already killed Travis.  Now, she basks in the limelight with no regard to his family.  They've suffered long enough.  She is officially now a convicted murderer, so, WHY is she still being permitted these privileges!?  Convicted felons lose their right to bear arms, their right to vote, etc... WHY is her Freedom of speech any different?  Just saying.

Doug called and informed me that he will be working all weekend.  No overtime in months and now, he works on the holiday.  That's perfectly fine because we wouldn't be doing much anyway with my foot in the boot or ice or hot water. ;)  I do hope to take in a movie or something though!  And I have my first lesson in the new class.  That will keep my plenty busy!

Life is good... even when your laptop is sssssssssss crazy!

Some people feel the rain, others just get wet.

no letter before B & till no sssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss

I wont be blogging until I'm fixed.  New keybord on it wy.  

weekend

A few weekend ramblings...

I had to share this beautiful photo, taken by my cousin, Angie, of my three living Great Aunts.  They are Aunt Chris, 87, Aunt Patty, 90 and Aunt HattieMae, 82.  They were/are my Granddaddy's sisters and they are three magnificent women.  I'm praying that they are going strong two years from now, as Doug and I are planning a trip back east to North Carolina and Maryland to visit them all.  I adore these great women!

weekend...

Friday...Doug and I went grocery shopping, took the laptop to Best Buy, ordered a new keyboard (which won't be here for a week! UGH), had lunch at Costa Vida and then he took me to Physical Therapy.  That was plenty painful.  I now have a regimen of exercises to keep me busy.  The Physical Therapist informed me that my foot is sending signals that tells the brain that it hurts.  His treatment plan is to give it more pain that it already has and then the real pain won't be so bad.  Go figure?  Now, I get an icewater for two minutes/ hot water for two minutes bath twice a day for 30 minutes and a bunch of exercises  that are supposed to help.  The shot left a lovely bruise on my foot that doesn't want to go away.  And the boot is my most lovely accessory these days.  On Friday evening, we went over to the B's and finally watched Jack Reacher, the latest Tom Cruise DVD.  We loved it.  Lots of action, good laughs.  No sex or skin, mild language with one F word, which really ticks me off!  WHY do they have to do that in every movie!?!  It was great to be with the B's and Miki is just so grown up!

Saturday... I cried.  And cried.  And cried.  Doug's extended family had a very and historical family gathering in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple, followed by a dinner.  There were 110 guests present for a family meeting.  I was heartbroken not to be able to attend, but we knew that the amount of walking that would be required would be over the top for my foot.  sadness!! No.  Seriously.  This was THE most upset I have been about my foot since the Chili's door fell off the hinges and killed my foot.  Up until now, I've tried to roll with it but missing this was devastating! When Doug left, I was in tears.  As he was walking out the door, I had an idea and consider it a tender mercy that I did!  During the family meeting/dinner, Doug called my phone.  He put his on speaker.  I put mine on mute and put on my headphones, in order to hear every word of the meeting, with the exception of one of the aunt's comments, because her voice was weaker.  I was so grateful for the technology and forethought to do this because, although I was not able to be there physically, I was able to attend in spirit and over the phone!  The meeting was splendid.  I adore Doug's extended family so much!  They are such an amazing family!  HAPPINESS!  Doug got home at midnight and we talked until after 1AM about every detail.  Loved it!

Sunday... I've not mentioned this until it was official today.  I am being "released" from teaching the Gospel Principles Class, effective immediately, so that I can begin teaching two consecutive courses of the Teacher Development Class.  I was very sad to not be able to teach the last ten classes in the GP class, but it will all be fine.  I love to teach the gospel, it doesn't matter what the subject is!  My last class topic was on Obedience and it worked out fine to be able to sum up what we've discussed over the past 35 weeks.  I loved the last lesson together! Next week, a new adventure, new classroom, new class members, new topics. I love change, so, as sad as I am to end, there'll be no complaints from me!

Quayd was also given a new calling.  He will be serving as the Teacher's (14-15 year old boys) Quorum President.  He is taking this new assignment very seriously.  It will be fun to watch him grown in the experience.  He'll be sixteen in October and then he becomes a Priest.  I'm grateful that he'll have thi opportunity.  Have I mentioned that I love our new Bishopric lately?  The ward is growing in every way!

After church, the missionaries came over to teach Michael the second discussion.  Micheal has committed to be baptized.  He asked Doug to baptize him and the girl will speak at his baptism.  Quayd will be helping with other parts, as well.  This is a great experience for our family to think about and appreciate what we have in the gospel!  Have I mentioned lately that I love the gospel of Christ!?

In other news:

• Carol's son, Matthew, graduated from Navy Basic Training over the weekend.  Carol was able to fly to Chicago with Taylor and Tanner to be there for Matt.  We are so proud of him!  It's awesome to have a "family member" in the military!  I kept up with their updated posts on Facebook all weekend and cried along with them!  I cried a lot this weekend.  Happy tears for Matt!
• We turned the heat back on over the weekend.  Lots of rain and cold.  Windows closed.  Heat on.  But, it's temporary!  The "time for the pool set-up" begging has begun!  Doug says June 15.  The kids are hoping he'll cave and do it over Memorial Day.  I'll settle for the last day of school,  which is only two weeks away!
• This week, my favorite niece, Jocilyn and her love, Kevin are getting married!  Happiness for them!  I won't be dancing at the wedding, but I'll certainly be tapping my foot!
• It rained hard this morning!  I thought I would be a nice mom and take the kids to the busstop.  They all said, "No!  We can walk."  I insisted.  We got to the bus stop and they were ready to hop out and join their friends.  ZJ's bus comes first and she was out so fast!  Not even a kiss and he she didn't hear me say "Make good choices!"  Quayd and Grace waited, most impatiently, til theirs came and both were as antsy as could be to join their friends.  It hit me this morning...they are really teenagers.  Happiness for them...sadness for Doug and I.  When he called this morning, I told him about it and he responded, "Dang, they are growing up too fast!" 
•  Doug and I have set a goal to ask/remind the kids every day, "What good things have you done for others today?"  It's something we are going to really be focusing on.  Life is good.

Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.
 

natural. untouched. divine.

wow.

fasssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssst friday

I'm off to Physical Therapy and to drop my laptop off at Best Buy to get my "SSssssssssssssssssssssssssssss" fixed! Not even gonna try today!  Have a wonderful weekend!  Life is good!

hort and to the point...

till no SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss key.  And I don't have time to edit thi morning.  LOL   Natalie i getting me out of the houe for a bit today!  Happine!!!  That' funny!  Thi i ssswhat my computer i doing and it' no fun to read at all!  But, life iss good!  Even in a big ugly black very warm boot!  No ssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss in that sentence.  It's amazing how often we use the s.  Now, look.  It's working.  Go figure.  Give it a sentence and it will go back to skipping.  

If it' s gonna work, I'll do a quick ten...

1. Quayd has decided to be "cool" and ha sbeen doing his hair every morning.  He uses more hairspray than the girls and I combined.  But, he's so cute!
2. Eleven more school days!
3. Next week, we plant the garden!  Happinessssssssssssssss!
4. I think that the cortisone shot may be helping!
5. I found three more of thoe piderss like the one I posted yesterday.  Time to spray!
6. Liza and I had the best talk until midnight last night.  Oh, how I miss our latenight visits... It's been nine years and I still miss them!
7. In my paretime, I've decided that I like chalkboard art.
8. We are excited to have the missionaries coming to our home this afternoon to begin teaching one of ZJ's friends.  She wants to go on a mission when she is 19.  
9. If you read this entire post, you really are a good friend!
10. If you read this entire post, I highly recommend a book called Ella Minnow Pea.  It's short, it's sweet, it's fun, it reads like this post.  (Grab a dictionary and keep it near.  It's a lot of fun to read!)  I'll admit, you will either love it or hate it.  I loved it!

Do what you can with what you have where you are.

on talents and other stuff

I woke up this morning to find THIS guy hovering over my bed!  EEEWWWWW!  I don't do ugly spiders!  He looked MEAN!  He's in an upsidedown vase,  on the bathroom counter because he keeps jumping and I don't dare try to put him in the toilet till Doug gets home.  Did you hear me scream when I was getting him into the vase?  I still have creepy crawlies!

 

Being that my foot is six inches wide, driving is not the wisest thing I can do right now.  So, I spent much of yesterday studying for my upcoming Sunday School lessons.  In the afternoon, Carol came over for a little "play date at the park".  ;)  We picked up some cokes and found an empty picnic table at Mack Park in Smithfield.  Sitting in the shade and gabbing for two hours...best therapy ever!  I told her that we should do this every Monday for the rest of our lives!  I can see us now... two 89 year old women, hobbling with our cokes and our canes!

 Liza felt the baby kick!  I tear up everytime I think of it!  A few of my friends are planning on hosting a baby shower for Liza in June!  So, she's coming home for a few days! HAPPINESS!!!  I'll get to see my baby girl soon!

My lesson, last Sunday, was about developing our talents.  Over the past few days, talents have been on my mind... mine and the many talent of others in my closest circles.  The point that I made, I want to remember...

We are all blessed with talents.  Some are more obvious than others.  At the end of my lesson, friend, Dave, mentioned that he "stacks wood" very well.  He'd loaded a trailer full of wood to the point that it was packed and not one piece would fall.  As he told this story, the men in the class all grinned, agreeing that this is a talent.   The point was made at the perfect time, just as I was about to conclude.  It was the perfect segway... Dave is one of those people who is always out there helping others.  Dave was the guy up on my roof last summer with my brother when we, meaning Rick and Dave, redid our roof.  Dave was here to help us move the furniture in and out when we redid the floors this past winter.  I can't tell you how many times I've heard people say that Dave helped with this or that.  He's a good guy with good parents who raised him to help others all the time!  AND HE DOES!    I digress...

The point that Dave made, without realizing that he was making it, was this.  And this is what I said to conclude the lesson... Dave is young and will more than likely be around for decades to come, living a long long happy life, which I know will include much service to others.  But, when Dave dies and people are remembering him and eulogizing him, more than likely, no one will remember that he could stack a mean trailer full of wood.  BUT, they will remember how many times he helped people move wood, do their roof, load their furniture and help/blessed others with his many talents.  

That's how it is for us all.  We look at the pianist or the artist or the great singer and think, "Wow!  I wish I had their talent!"  BUT, the fact is, that we all have talents of our own. And the purpose, I believe, that we are blessed with our own talents, is so that we, in turn, can bless the lives of those around us with them!  I can't sing, but I can sure set a beautiful table.  I may not be able to play piano very well, but I bake wonderful breads and cakes to share with my neighbor.  I may not be an artist, but I have been able to help many friends through the years as they moved into a new home and wanted to decorate it.  Sharing our talents is the most important part of developing our talents!  Just sayin.

And on that note, I have to add one other comment from the lesson that made me giggle.  I asked several class members to tell us one of their talents.  People never want to say "I'm good at this or that", but they did, at my request.   At one point, Tina raised her hand and I was happy that she'd volunteer to share one of her talents.  She said, "This isn't about one of my talents, it's about one of yours."  I joked, "Then don't share it!"  She went on to tell us that last fall, when her teenage son had a Halloween party, Quayd had walked into their kitchen and noticed that she had matching paper plates, cups, napkins and tablecloth.  Quayd said, "Wow, Sister Christensen!  That's a great tablescape!" She went on to say, "Only Quayd, Sophia's son, would notice something like that."  We all got a laugh out of the fact that he's definitely been raised in my home, and that he was sweet enough to praise her for it.  I heart that boy!  One of his talents is being complimentary to others.  YAY!

Anyway, my sentiment this morning is a challenge.... use one of your own challenges to bless the life of another today!  Enough said.  

Work for a cause, not applause.
Live life to express, not toimpress.  
Don't strive to make your presence noticed,
just make your absence felt. 

illy tuff and good tuff

My computer is having issues.  The "S" key issues.  I apologize up front ifI missssssssssssssssssssssssss  correcting a word that's missing an "S" or if it has an extra!  Sometimes, it works fine.  Other time, I have to hold it down or bang on it!  GRRRR.  I'll be taking it into Best Buy ASAP.  Enough!

Here's a few rambling thoughts and a few very tasty recipes from the shower:

Foot update.  Well, after three week of elevation, ice, med and the surgical shoe, the doctor said that we need to get more aggresssive.  My visit yesterday, included a cortizone shot in the foot (ouch), scheduling Physical Therapy, more meds and now wearing this lovely boot for the next three weeks.  I came home and cried. Pleae passssss my life back!  Enough said. (And, yes, I realize that I have the longest toes, they run in our family!)

A blonde Sophia moment:   At Mom's Mother's Day picnic, we were eating the last few leftover fruit kabobs.  As I pulled a huge strawberry off the skewer and was ready to take a huge bite, I noticed a hole in the berry.  EEWWW!  I said, "Ewww!  A worm whole in this strawberry!  And look, it goes straight through.  I've never seen a worm go from one side of a fruit to the other."  The looks I got!  It only took a mili-second for me to realize that I was saying.  Doug just grinned. He love my blonde momentss.  Hey!  I've got a lot on my mind!

And for Doug's funny... when we thought of the idea to have the dinner become a picnic, Doug said, "We can pull Mom's picnic table under the shade of the apple trees.  I called Mom and suggested it, mentioning the "shade of the apple trees".  When we got to Mom's, I looked at Mom's apple trees, which have just been pruned to near nothing, and with no leaves at all yet, and said, "What shade!?"  Mom walked outside and said, "Which limb did Doug want us to sit under?"  Zeej and Quayd climbed up in the tree and put a few tableclothes over the branches to make a "tent".  Good idea, though, Doug!

The mystery animal... a few days before Mom's Day, my mother called my cellphone to tell me that I needed to send Doug over to her house.  There was a strange wild animal in her back yard.  She'd never seen anything like it but it looked wild and mean and has horns.  (There's a huge barn in Mom's back yard that belongs to the neighbors on the back side of the block.)  The conversation went like this:

"Are you sure it's not a sheep?"
"No, I know what a sheep looks like.  They are wooly."
  "Are you sure it's not a llama?"
" It's too short for a llama.  No, it' not a llama!
"Is it a goat?"
"You don't think I'd know a goat?"
"Well, is it a horse?"
"No! It's got long hair and it' much shorter than a horse."
Are you sure it's not a dog?"
 "No!  It's not a dog!  I know what a dog is!  And it's bigger than a dog."

 She was very adamant that it was some pre-historic something.  On Sunday afternoon, while in the backyard, I said to Mom, "Where's your prehistoric horse, Mom?"  She stood up and looked over until she saw it in the shrubs.  It was a long haired goat!  We laughed and laughed.  It did have very long hair and she'd never seen a goat with long hair.   What we laughed most about was Quayd "playing" with the goat.  Quayd would dance in circles around the goat, as if they were playing tag.  I didn't have my camera but I'm sure it would have been one of the America's Funniest Video classics!

The roses...  Last Wednesday, Natalie brought over this adorable little half-pint canning jar for my tablescape.  She had put a little cutting off a rose bush in it with water.  It was darling.  I added extra water to the vase on Friday and then again just before the shower.  When Doug's sis, Anne, arrived at the shower, she commented on the beautiful little roses.  I said, "Natalie brought them down.  And they are a few days old!  Don't they look great!  I didn't think they'd live till the shower."  As I was cleaning up the shower, I accidentally touched a rosebud...and realized that they were silk.  REALLY, Sophia??

Strawberry Cream Cheese or Lickety Split Cupcakes

Friend, Marilyn, shared this recipe with me and I'll be eternally grateful!  OH My!

1 package strawberry cake mix
2 cups sour cream
2 eggs
1/3 cup strawberry preserves 

Filling:

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

1 egg
½ c. sugar

1/8 tsp. salt

Mix filling and set aside.

Line 24 muffins cups with paper baking cups. In large bowl, combine cake mix, sour cream and eggs; stir with spoon until well blended. Reserve 1½ cup batter. Fill cups ½ full with remaining batter.  Using spoon, make slight indentation in center of each cup; fill with heaping ½ teaspoon of preserves and a tsp. of cream cheese filling. Spoon reserved 1½ cup batter evenly over each filled cup, covering preserves and filling. Muffins should be ¾ full.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched. Store in refrigerator.

Note:  I made the cupcakes in the mini-muffin papers.  The recipe made 48 mini's, plus six regular size cupcakes.  The larger cupcakes are moister, for some reason.  SO SO GOOD!

Coconut Oreo Fudge

4 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (14.3 oz. package)

10 Tablespoons butter, melted

3 cups white chocolate chips

2 Tablespoons butter

1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz.)

1 1/2 cups shredded coconut

1 box instant coconut cream pudding mix (3.4 oz.)

1 1/2 cups marshmallow cream

Line a 9x13 pan with parchment paper. Combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the lined pan. Set aside.  In a large saucepan combine the white chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir over medium low heat until melted and creamy. Add the instant pudding and stir for 1-2 minutes longer. Add the shredded coconut and marshmallow cream and stir until completely melted and creamy. Pour on top of the cookie crust. Let set completely. Cut into 80 squares. Store in a sealed container on the counter for 5-6 days.

Note:  The most frequent comment when these were tasted was that they taste like "Cookies and Cream with Coconut".  A huge hit! 

Apple Pie Popcorn

6 cups popped popcorn
1 teaspoon apple pie spice (or 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp. allspice)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped dried apples
1/4 cup chopped pecans.

In small bowl, mix together spices and sugar. Combine popcorn, dried apples, and pecans.  Pour melted butter over popcorn mix (or spray with cooking spray). Dump sugar-spices over popcorn mix, and shake to coat.

Note:  Doug had the idea to mix a handful of this with the baked caramel corn... caramel apple pie!  mmm!

Yesterday, it was 91 degrees in our happy valley!  That's warm!  Doug got up on the roof and connected the evaporative cooler!  It was hot! Lovely hot!  The kid are begging, already, to put up the pool.  Three week left of school!  We are getting ready for summer, indeed!  Life is good!

Be in love with your life - every moment of it!

bridal shower and mothers day update...

The weekend was awesome!  Seriously awesome!  

Friday:  Doug and I had a pre-mother's day date, then we finished picking up the last things for the shower. We came home and had a great visit with our neighbor, Tim, a few doors down.  She gave us a tour of her absolutely perfect yard with its million and two flowers of every kind (and she knows the name of each and every plant, shrub, tree.  I adore this woman's gift!!!)  I mentioned to Tim that we were having a bridal shower and told her my decor, she offered immediately to pick me bouquets of flowers for whatever I needed for the shower.  YAY!  They were fab!  Once home, Doug got busy mowing the lawn for the first time of the season (much overdue, but the mower has been in the shop).  Then he did some other odds and ends in the yard and helped me whenever and wherever I asked him to, in getting ready for the shower.  He's such a great sport!  (But, then again, Jocilyn is his niece too!)  When the kids got home, the girls were super helpful in the kitchen and Quayd followed his dad's course.  Awesome!  Doug and I "ran out of gas" around nine and just chilled watching a couple of episodes of Castle before bedtime at midnight.  We were exhausted!  

Saturday:  Up at 6:30 and busy in the kitchen making the last of things for the shower.  Everything was ready by noon.  Natalie came over for a bit just to see the table.  She raved and raved about it, which coming from Natalie, who's uber-talented and creative, that was quite the compliment!  She'd shared much of her own rustic wares for my table, so I was extremely appreciative!  Denise came all the way to town with her and Carol's treat for the shower. Denise also went on about everything.  Double the fun!  ZJ had gone down to "Miss Tim's" and spent the moring picking a few wild flowers and enjoying her yard liked we'd done the day before.  ZJ has determined to help "Miss Tim" in her yard all summer long because it's "so peaceful" to be in.  I'm thinking Tim does just fine on her own, but love that Zeej wants to help her.  We were ready by noon and I was able to take a few pix!

The guest started arriving at 1 and the shower/openhouse lasted until 4:30ish.  The invitation had said 1-3, but there was lots of visiting to do, which was fine.  By 3, I was ready to put the foot up, so I did.  It was just family at that point, so they understood.  Jocilyn received lots of fun gifts and the topic came up several times that we all need to have our own bridal showers, every ten years of marriage, to replace our old worn-our dishtowels and linens. ;)  I said, "The heck with silver and gold anniversaries!  Bring on the linens!"  

The food was fab, if I do say so myself!   Here's a few pix....

The bride, my favorite niece Jocilyn and her soon-to-be, who had to be co-erced into the house full of women, when he came to pick up the gifts.

A few shots of the table...

 

Tomorrow, I'll share the recipe for some of the favorites!  The shower was a hit!  Worth every second of prep time!  Joc was thrilled and her hug at the end of the day was a wonderful thank you!

I do have to admit that by the time the shower was over and clean-up was done, I was literally in tears from the pain in my foot and the left knee.  I'd overdone.  I knew it.  But, I wouldn't change that for the world.  Again, how thankful I am for the good friends that I have.  Connie, Carol, Denise and Natalie were life-savers this week!  And Joc isn't even their neice!  But, when the shower was over, we got things cleaned up while Doug prepared for a meeting here later in the evening.  (Double entertain any time possible = one time prep of the house and food!)  Quayd and Grace attended their first "Mega-Stake" dance at the USU LDS Institute.  (Eight stakes or about 80 congregations of youth, ages 14-18, from all over the valley!)  They were so excited!  (And I was too tired to even think about taking pix!)  I sat back in the chair while Connie and I took a drive to McD's for the kids and Subway for Doug, Connie and myself.  (She's an angel!)  We sat and ate our subs while watching a little TV together and visiting.  

It was, also, our city's annual celebration weekend,  so at 10PM, after Connie had left, in our jammies, ZJ, Doug and I  hopped in the truck, drove up the street to Natalie's front yard and watched from the street,  the fireworks,which are launched in her back yard at the city's park.  (That was a long sentence!)  Nat has a huge backyard party for the fireworks and we were invited, but we literally were in our jammies and didn't have the umph to walk into their back yard.  We watched the fifteen minute show, did a u-turn and were home before anyone at the park had time to get to their cars at the city park!  Doug drove into Logan at 10:45 to pick the kids up from the dance.    When they got home, Grace wanted to chat until midnight telling us every detail of her big evening.  She's so social! The end of a lonnnnnnnnnnng and exciting day!

Mother's day.... Honestly, I say this every year, but everyone knows that Mothers Day is not my favorite day of the year.  Too emotional for me... I do not like hearing all of the "perfect mother who never raised her voice and baked bread every day talks" at church.  My mother worked, she yelled, she hit and it was rough.  She was a single working mother.  I love her.  She did the best she could.  But, she was no June Cleaver.  I also don't like the guilt that lots of moms feel when they hear about "those" mothers.  Not a fan.  And Doug has learned through the years to just roll with my feelings on the matter.  Thankfully!  So, this year (and the past few), it was a perfect day!  Here's a few highlights!

Back to Mother's day.   So... Sunday morning, Doug and Quayd left for church in the van and the girls and I met them when we were ready.  We overslept!  (Admittedly, it's the one day of the year that I don't mind "sluffing", so as not to hear the "Mother talks".)  As we were walking out the door, Dale and Willow called my cellphone to wish me a Happy Mother's Day!  Happiness! We got there just in time to hear the end of friend, Dave's talk, which brought me to tears, just in time to teach my Sunday School lesson on talents.  My foot was throbbing through the lesson.  (A few friends commented on watching me shake it though the lesson... I'd hoped to hide it.) I left and came home to put my foot up and ice it.  AGain, too much all weekend!

When Doug and the kids came home from church, we caught a short nap before going to my mom's for a picnic.  Kelly called to wish me a happy day and when I mentioned Nana's dinner, she asked if she could join us.  I called and Mom was thrilled!  We had a fun picnic in Mom's backyard.  The food was soooooo good!  Mom makes a mean roast and potatoes!  Very tasty!  And we laughed.  A lot!  (I'll be sharing those laughs later this week because I don't want to forget them!  But we did laugh! 

I have to mention Kelly's gift... she came with a 2 liter of coke, a giant Reeses and four shirts!  Two identical blue and two identical pink.  Two different sizes for each.  She wanted to make sure that I got the one I liked and that it fit.  After I tried the first one on, she said, "You get to keep both!"  Very thoughtful.

After dinner at Mom's, we all headed over to the B's for treats, which I had left over from the shower.  Imagine that!  Miki and Zaylee play so well together.  Kelly hadn't seen Miki in almost two years.  As we were getting out of the truck, Zaylee said, "Mommy, you haven't met my friend, Miki, have you?"  We were all sort of stunned by the comment.  When they are old enough to "get it", we'll explain.  For now, they are just "friends".  We had a fun visit and more laughs before heading home so that Quayd could go home teaching.

After telling Kelly and Zaylee goodbye, we all got our jammies on and watched Survivor finale.  Liza called in the middle of the finale, so we pressed pause and had a good visit.  Dale texted again and asked me to give him a call if I had time to talk more.  I called him after getting everyone, including Doug, to bed.  We had a great visit and his last words were, "I love you, Mom.  You're the best mom in the world!"  It made my day.

I believe that this is the first Mother's Day that I've had all six kids be so thoughtful on the right day and with nothing but happy thoughts and talks in a long time!  It was delightful!  No guilty mother's talks at church.  I didn't have to cook.  Great time with family.  A superb Sunday!  LOTS of laughs!  It felt SO good to laugh so much!  And I loved Survivor!  Loved this day!

I'm off to see the foot doctor and tell him that three weeks of this yucky pill, elevated foot, ice and a bridal shower haven't changed the foot at all.  Ugh.  Go figure.  But, life is so dang good!

Only Love let us see ordinary things in an extraordinary way.

 

Happy Mothers Day!

short and sweet

Jocilyn' shower is tomorrow!  It's going to be a busy day!  Everything is gathered and now it's time for the fun part...putting it all together!  I hope that things come together as well as they already are in my head.

A few rambling thoughts on this busy day:

• Fifty invitations went out.  Seven have RSVP'd.  Really?  I think that the day of RSVPing is a thing of the past.  I'm not saying another word about it.
• Today, I will be preparing the remaining food, dusting, cleaning the bathroom and  giving lots of direction to my team of helpers.  I'm blessed to have helpers!!!
• Yesterday afternoon, my sweet friend, Tammy (the friend who fell down the stairs following her surgery last year and spent weeks in a coma), showed up at my door with a pot of the most delicious cheesy potato soup I've ever tasted and some very tasty brownies!  Just because.  I love just becauses!
• Yesterday, I went downstairs for the first time in a few days and discovered that a tornado had gone through my home.  It had to have been a sneaky tornado because the upstairs looks perfect, the damage was only downstairs.  But, the kids rooms!  Oh. My. Heck.  I was not amused.  When they came home, we sat down and had a long talk about responsibility, about the importance of belonging to a family and working together, about preparing for having a home of your own, of having the privileges that we have now and about the blessing of keeping them.  At bedtime, everything was back in order, feelings were good, pride was taken in the work that had been accomplished.  I don't get it.  How can such messes happen in just a few short days.  I was quite proud of myself.  I never raised my voice.  I didn't make anyone feel bad.  But, I made my point quite clearly.  Oh, the joys of motherhood.  
• I made a chalkboard sign for the shower and I am quite excited about it.  It was a fun little doodle.  I think that I may start leaving little messages on it all the time.  I'll share on Monday!
• Time to get busy...HAPPINESS!!! I'm thankful for the help of good friends who are helping!
• Have a Happy Mothers Day weekend!

Good manners and kindness are always in fashion.

yikes!

I did the dishes this morning, then sat down in my recliner with my laptop to blog this morning and woke up four hours later!  I must have been sleepy is all I can guess.  Now, it's noon and I've not done a thing all day.  That doesn't happen! But, it did and now, I have to catch up!  Life is good!  Have a great rest of the day!

Create a life that feels good on the inside,
not one that just looks good on the outside.

The best recipe I've ever posted...

As promised, here's Connie's recipe for her nummy brownies!  In Connie's words, (and note the last line.  It made me laugh right out loud!!!)

CARAMELS
2 cups sugar
1 cube butter
1 ½ cups light corn syrup
2 cups cream

Blend all ingredients (except one cup cream) together in a deep heavy sauce pan. Mix well and bring to a boil while stirring. Then, slowly add the other cup of cream while you continue to stir. Cook on medium to low heat stirring often. When the candy starts to turn color (tan) be sure and stir more often to keep from sticking. Once the candy starts to thicken, or follow the spoon, start testing the candy in cold water. When the candy forms a firm ball in cold water, pour into 8” square buttered pan. Do not scrape the excess caramel into the pan. If you want to scrape the pan, scrape it on to a well buttered dish. This part of the candy is not as tender and is harder to cut when cool so eat it soon.

Do not use glass pans. I use foil pans so I can just pop the caramel out to cut it when it is cool. Let cool over night, place on cutting board covered with waxed paper, cut into squares and wrap in waxed paper. If the caramel does not want to pop out of the pan, put it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.  You can put nuts, chocolate or whatever additions you want in the pan before you pour in the caramel. Pour slowly to keep from over-flowing. You can of course use larger pans if you want the caramels to be thinner and to allow room for more nuts, chocolate, etc. 

Once you are comfortable with the process you will be able to cook on a higher heat and it will go faster for you. I usually cook it on medium high heat until it starts to turn and then turn it down to medium as it can scorch if you are not careful.

If you have questions, call Sophia.

Isn't she funny!?  Seriously, I'm anxious to hear about everyone's attempts at making it.  Connie starts making candy in September and is still making it on Christmas Eve!  To be on Connie's candy gift list is a blessing!

Every accomplishment begins with a decision to try.

rain, recipes, rant

We had a beautiful gentle rain most of the night and it's still cloudy and drizzling this morning. I love this time of year!  We can sleep with the windows open, but still need blankets to keep us warm.  That crisp air is feels soooo good!  I'd planned on grocery shopping early this morning, but am going to just stay in today, enjoy the rain and work on the shower.  I'm dying to set the table already, but will refrain for at least a day or two! (Wink-wink!)

Yesterday, we started planning another shower... a baby shower for Liza!  Denise and Carol have offered to help give her a shower, which means that she's going to have to come home for it!  Last week, it hit me that I might not even see Liza while she's pregnant.  She showed me her "baby bump" while we were skyping and I think that's when it really hit me!!  We're having a baby!  So, not only do I get to have my girl come home for a few days this summer, 

I wanted to mention that yesterday's recipe was a hit for several blogging friends last night!  I received emails with questions all day.  Apparently, we all love lettuce wraps!  Here's a few answers to questions I was asked:

• Yes, you definitely need the sesame oil.  It's has a unique flavor.  And although it's $7 for a small bottle, you'll use it because you will want to make these again.
• Here's a pic of the chili sauce I used.  I found it in the chinese food section.  Again, it's VERY hot and spicy.  We love spicy but this is some serious HOT.

• I served it with rice.  If you don't want to make a gazillion wraps, you can serve them like Quayd had his... more like a Mexican Haystack with all of the toppings on a bed of rice.  As spicy as the sauce is, it really tames it.  Enjoy!  

And while I'm talking food, I should mention that I've been asked for the last few days about Connie's caramels. She was kind enough to agree to share her recipe for me to share here.  Honestly, I think that Connie was born with a gift because her hand-dipped chocolates and caramels are the best I've ever tasted...in any store, confectionery, anywhere.  Two weeks ago, she brought me some Chocolates that were along the lines of an Almond Joy.  OH MY!  No.  Seriously.  OH MY!  Here's a photo of the pretzels that we made for the shower this weekend.  She made the caramel and did most of the work.  I helped.  But, I'm going to be bold and try to do this on my own only when I have a house full of company so that I can share them all and not have the temptation to eat them myself!  I'll share the recipe as soon as I get it from Connie!

Well, I hate to go here, but I am going to.  Watching the news of the discovery of these three girls in Cleveland, ten years later,  last night has rocked me to the core. A school bus driver?  Really?  I realize that this is so negative.  BUT, we have GOT to realize that we do not live in the 5os anymore. We have GOT to be more aware of our neighbors and surrounding and to do all that we can to protect our children.  I was looking up an obituary in our local paper and three of the top local news headlines (I didn't read any of the stories) were along the lines of "Man pleas guilty of sex/child abuse".  SERIOUSLY?  Three in one day? Right here in my own little happy valley?  We live in a world that is so different than when we were children. We must do all that we can to protect our children, to teach them the best precautions possible and yet, we need to help them feel safe and not live in fear.  Where/how do we draw the line?  All I know is that, once again, I want to just hug my kids and never let go.  

Watching the news, they tell us, this morning, and all the time, if something looks like it's not right, do something. Report it!  Question it!  Don't just be a bystander.   Doug always says, "If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, more than likely, it's a duck!  Enough said.

That's all I have today.  Life is really good... even though there are some seriously wicked people living in it.  There's so so sooooooooooo many more good ones... like:

• friends who send E-cards just because.  Love you, Susan!
• friends who say, "I'd love to host a shower for your expectant daughter!"  Love you, Carol and Denise!
• friends who drop by with treats just because.  Thank you, Wendy!
• friends who share their talents and skills without a second thought and expect nothing in return (and even fight it when you offer things in return!)  Thank you, Connie!
• friends who say, "Ya wanna run and grab a coke?" or say yes when you want to.  Thank you, Nat.
• friends who share their testimony and inspire everyone around them.  Thank you, Liz.

Life is good.

Don't pray for life to be easy.  Pray for yourself to be strong.

food and fun

Doug was away for a few days in SLC for the National Melaleuca Convention.  I stayed home with the kiddos this time.  I had to laugh at the text messaging that was done by my husband's new talent of texting.   I'm sure that predictive text is very confused by his funny verbage.  Doug has a language of his own.  He cracks me up! 

The kids and I did our own thing...  Quayd had a sleepover with three friends.  The girls and I had a good time...cooking some, playing some, napping and suntanning some.  Grace is already brown!  We all went to Pizza Pie Cafe for dinner on Friday and McDonalds for lunch (aka Diet Coke for me) on Saturday.  Doug returned home on Saturday evening and we had a great reunion. The funniest part of his reunion was us all racing to the door and me calling out, "Nope!  Nope!  I'm first!"  Doug said that was the best welcome home ever.  I've always felt that being apart every now and then helps a couple appreciate each other more when they reunite, but seriously, I no likee when he is away!

Church was awesome yesterday!  My friend, Liz gave a beautiful lesson.  It moved me to tears.  I loved her lesson.  I love Liz!  My lesson went well.  It was a good day.

Yesterday for dinner, I made Lettuce Wraps, which the kids go nuts over.  This is SO not a kid food but my kids love them!  I doubled the recipe and every single bite was gone!  Carol asked me to share the recipe, so here it is, and seriously, it's a must-try!  One note:  The recipe calls for ground chicken breast but , instead, I deboned and chopped a roasted chickens from the grocery store.  I used the whole deboned chicken and doubled everything else below. 

 1 pound ground chicken breast
1/2 medium purple onion, minced
salt and pepper
2 large cloves of garlic
1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped or the equivilant of powdered ginger

Heat the chicken, onion, salt and pepper in a large non-stick skillet or wok.  Cook until the chicken is done.  (Since I had a pre-cooked chicken, I sauteed the onions in a tablespoon of oil, then added the chicken and cooked it a bit more.) Add the garlic and ginger and continue cooking until the onions and chicken are cooked.  

In a separate bowl, mix the following.  Then put it in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds until you can stir it until it's smooth. 

1 tbsp. sesame oil
2 1/2 Tbsp. soysauce
1/2 Tbsp.  water
1 Tbsp. peanut butter
1/2 Tbsp. honey
4 tsp. Rice Vinegar
2 tsp. chili garlic sauce (THIS is HOT!!  I only used 1 tsp. for the double recipe and it still has LOTS of kick!)
dash fresh pepper

 Pour this sauce over the skillet mixture and stir.
Then:
3 green onions
1/2 can of sliced water chestnuts, drained and chopped
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (I double-doubled the nuts.
12 outer Lettuce Leaves (I use Romaine) 

Add chopped green onion and peanuts, the cook until the green onions are soft and the wather chestnuts are heated through.

When I made them yesterday, I realized that I was out of water chestnuts.  So, instead, I shredded about 2 cups of raw carrots and served them inside the wraps.  Every shred of carrot was eaten.  I think I actually prefer them this way better.  (And carrots are more nutritious.)  Seriously, a healthy, low cal meal that is De-LISH!  When kids who aren't huge onion fans and don't really love speecy-spicy love it, it's a must-try!  Enjoy!

Lunch with Natalie, doctor appointment this afternoon and the verdict watch for the Jodi Arias trial today.  Praying for justice. Family Home Evening and Dancing with the Stars tonight.  More bridal shower prep and planning.  Life is good.

Life is as grand as you make it. 

One of my favorite thoughts...

Nooks and crannies

previously posted on June 8, 2008

 

You're only as interesting as the books you read.

 

 

Every picture has a story to tell.

 

Love is the thread that binds us together.

 

 

The ornaments of a home are the friends that frequent it.

 

 

 

All the world is filled with love when there's love at home.

grad time

I've mentioned friend Connie's gift for being the world's greatest candy maker!  A few days ago, I asked Connie to share her secrets for making chocolate and caramel dipped pretzels for the dessert bar at my favorite niece Jocilyn's shower next week!  So, last night, Connie came over and we got busy. She'd made the caramel, in advance, because it has to sit a day before we could wrap the pretzels and dip them.  We had a good time talking and laughing as Connie teased me when I tried doing things "my way".  "My" way is not right!  When she did it "her way", it went much smoother!  She's amazing! The biggest test for me, now, will be not eating them all between now and the shower.  I told Connie this morning that I may get them bagged and bring them to her house so that there are still some left next weekend!  I think if I were ever stranded on a deserted island and could only have three things to eat, it would be Connie's pretzels, cream cheese stuffed strawberries and my unbaked peach pie.  Well... and Diet Coke.  Thanks to Connie for a fun night!

Yesterday afternoon, my brother-in-law, Dee, called to tell me that they were having a family gathering to celebrate the college graduations of their son-in-law and daughter-in-law.   After teasing, "What time do you want me there?!", he told me that they wanted to do some sort of game or activity and he was calling for my help.  I got totally excited to put on my thinking cap and came up with two games for them to play after their dinner.  Since it is graduation time and there are lots of celebrating taking place, I thought I'd share my game ideas.  I've not heard how things went, but I'd love to have been there to hear the answers as the grads revisited some of their college experiences!

Here's game one... sort of a "Table Talk" game.

For the group: Print the words below, cut them into word strips and put them in a bowl to be drawn by each person at the table.  Ask each person to share an experience/memory of the grad that relates to this word.  This gives each person a chance to give a little praise for the efforts of the grad.  (Remember, the guests were all siblings and in-laws, so they've been around each other enough to have experiences to remember.  This would also work within a group of close friends.)

 

tenacity   humility   patient   courage   humor   leadership   compassionate   ecstatic   confident   inspired

schedule   encouraging   faithful   integrity   took a stand   strength   positive   talented   understanding

challenge

 

Here's a list of questions for the graduates to answer, so that they can share a few of their experiences and memories:

1. Tell about your earliest childhood school memory.
2. Who was your all-time favorite teacher? Why?
3. What was your biggest challenge in school?
4. What was your most embarrassing moment in school?
5. What did you want to be when you grew up?
6. How did you choose your major and career?
7. Aside from your spouse, who was the most influential person in your college years and why?
8. Name one word to describe yourself in your freshman year? Your senior year?
9. Aside from your romantic journey, what was your biggest distraction through college?
10. Aside from graduation day (nor, mission and your marriage), what was your biggest success during your college years?
11. What was your biggest pet peeve about college?
12. What's one thing you couldn't have survived without during your college experience?
13. What is your greatest strength that got you through college?
14. What's one class that you think should be mandatory for every student who enters higher education?
15. Looking back, what's the biggest surprise you found about attending college?
16. If you could start over today, would you end up here again or take another path? What would it be?
17. How are your different today than you were on your first day of your freshman year?
18. Describe your study habits. How would you like to improve or change them or did they work for you just fine?
19. Which of your strengths helped you the most though the whole experience?
20. FOR BOTH: In twenty seconds, tell us as much as you can about your college highlights.

Other rambings, this morning...

• I went into Logan at 8AM to get the Expedition registered and licensed.  I realized last night that it was May 3 and it had expired on Tuesday.   And the bad thing was that I've been carrying around the reminder in my planner all month.  Oops!  A few days late, but check, it's done! 
•  We've got a lot going on this weekend.  Doug's got meetings, I've got playtime with the kids, Carol and I are having breakfast tomorrow and I have a lesson to complete.
• I feel like forever since I've been to church.  We had General Conference, Stake Conference and I was at the ranch, so it has!  I'm happy and looking forward to Sunday! 
• Life is good!  

Blessed are the flexible for they will not be bent out of shape.

old friends

It's a beautiful, bright, sun is shining twenty seven degree morning in Cache Valley.  Gorgeous!  

Last night, we had our dearest friends from Indiana, Doug and Helen, come into town for the evening.  Doug insisted on taking us all out for dinner.  We went to Cafe Sabor.  The kids were thrilled.  When Doug was here visiting last time, we'd gone out for dinner and Quayd was invited along because the girls were sleeping over at Nana's.  Doug and Quayd really bonded.  He is a big tease.  Somehow, Quayd became Herman and Doug became Uncle Herman, so Quayd has been just counting down until "Uncle Herman" returned.  It was a delightful visit, albeit much too short.  But the good news is that they have a married child, who has recently moved here into the valley!  So, we'll be able to see them more frequently.

We've known them for twenty years and last night, I was thinking about some of the valuable lessons they've taught me.  Doug, I've mentioned, is the man who gets on his knees every single morning of his life and asks, "Whom can I serve today?"  And then he listens to that still small voice and does whatever he feels impressed to do.  They've lived a very blessed life because of his attitude of service.  Doug is positive and upbeat always.  Last night, Doug mentioned that he will be 70 this year!  I was just stunned.  Doug looks exactly as he did when we met.  In my life, I've never considered Doug's age because he seems to be timeless.  He has the same energy, the same attitude and is just as fun as ever.  Time has not slowed him down!  Impressive.  I love that he always teases that Helen gave birth to their first child when she was three.  

Helen is just a riot.  She has large hair and the prettiest blue eyes and she always smiles.  We sat during dinner at the opposite end of the table with the kids in between us and the men, which allowed us to visit non-stop.  What a gift that was to me!  She's a woman of wisdom and an inner beauty, one of my favorite ladies on this earth.  They are truly an amazing couple.  Oh, and how I love her laugh!  She's just as beautiful as ever and even more fun to listen to.  I love this woman!

It was a gift to get out, it was a gift to spend the evening with them and it is truly a gift to be blessed with them as friends!

In other news:

• I didn't take a single photo last night.  WHAT was I thinking!?
• Best text EVER from my husband: I love you more than words can say.  You're more eloquenter than me."  He makes me happy.  He makes me laugh very hard.
• I just had left over shrimp enchiladas and a diet coke for breakfast.  A healthy start to my day.  BAD Sophia!  BAD!
• I have been following the Jodi Arias trial since the beginning. I'm not sure if it was the fact that he was an LDS man?  If it was because Liza and Buddy pay taxes in this county?  Doug and I felt a connection to this young man and his family the moment we heard this story.  His eulogy was so personal and touched our hearts. He was human, but he seemed to be a good man with such a bright future.  What a loss. Closing arguments are today. My heart goes out to his family. They have asked for prayers and fasting this weekend that this jury will bring justice for the loss of their brother.  I will be so glad when it's over for them.  Can you say adrenaline?
• We're supposed to see seventy degrees for the first time this weekend!  Life is good!

Family isn't always blood.
It's the people n your life who want you in theirs;
the ones who accept you for who you are.  
The ones who would do anything to see you smile
and love you no matter what.

LEARNING how to live is life's most important skill!

Happy May!  However, the view out my window is a far cry from what my May calendar art!  This calendar make me happy, just looking at it!

It's a surprising morning.  As the girls came upstairs, having slept with my window open and having the furnace turned off for days, but not having looked outside yet, I said, "If feels cooler this morning, you probably need hoodies."  Grace gave me the "stinkeye" and said, "Mom.  It's. SNOWING." She's so ready for summer!  Of course, it will probably melt within minutes of hitting the ground but, it is snowing this morning.  According to my predictions and count, I responded to Grace, "Two more storms, Sweetheart. Two more."  At least.  It is Cache Valley in the springtime.  Quayd brought in my plants on the deck, leaving the floor covered in snow.  I hope that they didn't freeze!  When I mentioned my prediction of four more storms, at the time, two weeks ago, my mother swore at me, as though it were my fault and said, "Shut up!"  PS, Mom... we don't swear or say "Shut up!"  ;)

I spent much of yesterday planning and thinking about desserts for the shower. I'm down to seventeen choices.  Now, to reel myself in.  I sent a friend a text yesterday, "Can I set the table now?"  It feels so good to be planning a party!  

I visited with Doug's aunt, last night for a few minutes.  I've shared, many times, the love that I have for Doug's aunts and uncles.  But, these three women, the last three of their generation, are, without a doubt, three of the greatest women I've known in my lifetime.  I adore each of them!  Anyway, Aunt Lucille was telling me that she's taking a trip to attend a grandchild's baptism soon.  They are driving through Wyoming to Denver.  We talked about that dreadful eight hour drive across Wyoming and she enthusiastically shared her cure for this drive... a CD series called, something like, "The World's 100 Greatest People."  It sounded fascinating... 50 CDs about 100 people who've influenced our world - from Thomas Jefferson to Ghandi... I want it!  This is one of the things I love about the aunts.  I believe I've shared this before, but the aunts always ask "What have you learned lately?  What are you learning?"   I love this attitude!  We would always be learning and improving!

Our family home evening lesson a few days ago was about education and learning.  "Someone" in the family has had a bit of "attitude" lately about a certain teacher/class.  A serious attitude.  We discussed the importance of learning and knowledge.  We talked about each class in school that is being studied and asked, "Why do you need to know how to read? how to do math?  about science?"  Then we talked about different professions and how each profession - from working at A&W to being a surgeon to being a mom in the kitchen would benefit from knowing how to read, how to do math, understanding science.  We also talked about how important it is that we continue our educations, and try to learn something new every day until we die.  "Someone" was pretty quiet during the lesson, with the exception of a few little sarcasms.  That was Monday.  Last night, at dinner, "Someone" told us that they had had a great day in school and that they'd gone to the teacher (who was known all weekend as "the evil one") and had a visit.  The teacher and "someone" did some negotiating on past due assignments, the teacher gave some detailed instruction and "Someone" changed their own attitude and had a great day in school.  That "Someone" shared, "I'm glad we had that Family Home Evening lesson cause I could see that I needed to improve."  Score for the parents and home evening lessons!

So, my sentiment today is "LEARN SOMETHING NEW EVERY DAY!"

Oh my gosh!  I just turned around and looked out the window.  The sun is shining, the now is melted and it looks fab!  The furnace, however, is on.  When I walked to the thermostat to turn it back on, the house was 62 degrees.  May 1. Cache Valley Spring! Love it!   Life is good!

If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you.
If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you! 

short

Happiness!  All of my children are back in school today.  Quayd was glad to get out of the house!

Jocilyn's shower details changed completely yesterday.  Stuff happens.  I'm still excited, but it's now going to be an open house.  I'm now serving a dessert bar instead of a luncheon.  We're now having twice as many guest.  I'm now doing different party favors and I won't be using the original invitations.  It's all good.  That means I've have to have another gathering to use them!  I'm in full party mode and loving it! I'm excited to do some test-baking a few shower treats.  Recipes to come!  I'm so thankful to have to girls in the house that are willing to help!

I failed to mention that I appreciated all of the sweet emails and comments about Liza's work associate.  There were a few that made me laugh out loud!

This crazy Tuesday, I've got nothing more to say.  Shocking, I know.  A friend said to me this morning, "Why blog?  Just don't do it."  It's  a habit I don't want to break but it's hard when life consists of elevating your foot.  Yep, just a busy day sitting in my chair with my foot up.  Life is good... And so is chocolate cake.

every positive thought propels you in the right direction.

 

 

 

 

 

weekend love

We had Stake Conference, which I didn't go to any of.  One week down and two to go of this "keep the foot elevated and iced, stay off the feet, take these new make your stomach hurt but get the foot better pill" treatment.  Doug attended and said it was fabulous!  Sadness to miss it!  And Chili's didn't even send dinner.  ;P  I don't do "Still" very well.

A few weekend thoughts...

I spent a few hours lying on the trampoline in the sun reading!  It's really feeling like spring now...even though we have a cold front expected to move in mid-week... great weather!

ZJ surprised me with breakfast in bed.  Chocolate Covered Strawberries!  She made them herself by double-boiling milk chocolate chips. This girl... she's amazing.  They were pretty chocolatey, but for a just turned twelve year old, I'm impressed.  The Kindle Fire was a great investment.  If there's anything she wants to do, she just goes to YouTube and does it.  No inhibitions!

Grace made dinner on Saturday, as well.  She made Chicken Divan, which was quite fab!  I'm most proud of these kiddos, who are learning homemaking skills in their early years.  However, because I don't want to portray anything but reality... I have to share that "one of kiddos" told me, when I was not happy with the status of their bathroom, "Well, I'll clean mine when I have my home and you clean yours in your home."  I was not amused.  And yes, they cleaned it immediately.  Life is real in our home.  Very, very real.

I spent Sunday afternoon creating invitations for my favorite niece, Jocelyn's bridal shower.  It's all planned and I will be working on it over the next two weeks ... something to keep me entertained!  I'm excited to see it come together.  It's been nice to "create".  Jos is such a sweetheart, this is something I've looked forward to doing for years, so this will be a fun one!

I've not done much entertaining for the past year.  Between my knee surgery, the foot injury at Chili's and a few other issues, I've not really wanted to.  Recently, Doug encouraged me to "get my groove back".  It's time, he tells me!  I never dreamed that the day would come that my introverted husband would ask for his wife to party!  I'm working on it!

Grace's school is celebrating it's 100th year today. They have encouraged the kids to all dress up today. She went to school looking so cute that I had to take a few pictures.    She's growing up too quickly!  She was recently asked on a date.  She said no because she's not sixteen.  The thing that made me happiest was that she didn't even consider it.  I'm just praying that these kids continue to have such strong spirits and stick to their values!

I love these funky skirts!  Oh to be that size again!

Liza surprised Buddy for his birthday with a weekend getaway trip... a man's kind of trip.  They went to LA and attended four major league baseball games in three days.  Plus, things worked out that Buddy's sister and her family were visiting LA at the same time, so they got to spend some time together.  I love that Liza and Buddy have had so much time to "play".   They are about to enter a new phase of life and will appreciate their eight years of playtime even more too!  Have I mentioned how much I love this girl!?

So, it was a good weekend.  Connie brought over Subway one night for some girlfriend time.  I did some creating. Lots of Party planning thoughts. Doug and I had some nice time together.  We watched As Good as it Gets and remembered why we'd never  bought the movie.  We had time together.  Quayd's on the mend this morning, after the entire week in bed.  He's home today but he's singing his crazy songs and seems to be on the mend!  Thankfully!  Never a dull moment.  Windows open at night, furnace off for a week now.  I've asked Doug to get the grill back on the deck, up and running for the season!  It's that time!  I'm forgetting soemthing, but it will keep. Life is good!

Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle.

How I love this promise!

harharhar

Last week, I shared the recent Dove Real Beauty campaign video.  I was looking at it again and discovered this parody on it.  Funny thing was, I'd wondered how men would do in this experiment.  If you want a quick chuckle, here it is.  Happy Saturday!

For RUDE!

Uh-oh.  Mamma Bear coming out.  Be forewarned.

Liza works with a woman who is very negative and just plain rude! Liza has told me things over the past year that have made me cringe, but Liza, being like her dad, is kind-hearted, understanding and forgiving.  However.  I am ready to speak up for Liza myself!  The bottom line, I realize, is that this woman is obviously not a happy person, which is unfortunate.  But, that does not mean that she has to be rude...especially to my daughter!

A few weeks ago, this woman walked up to Liza, patted Liza's belly, and asked,  "How much of that is you and how much of that is baby?"  Okay.  First of all, patting someone's baby bump is a little personal.  But that comment was just plain rude and hurtful.  It's not like pregnant woman aren't sensitive enough about weight, but seriously?

Then a week or so ago, she told Liza that she was "very concerned" about "this baby".  Liza asked why and she informed her that "Well, you are just not maternal."   Hello!?!?  Who says that?!?!!  She went on to tell Liza that she's not maternal because Liza does not get all ga-ga over other people's babies.  Excuse me!?  She never saw Liza with Zaylee or the babes when they were young.

Now, I have to interject here that I am not a baby person, except with my own children and grands.  I didn't like babysitting when I was a teenager. I have never been one to ask to hold someone else's baby.  Nor have I ever been one to get all excitable when someone walks in the room with a new baby.  All babies are beautiful because they are little angels from heaven, but, honestly, how many newborn babies are really "pretty".  They are all sweet, but not necessarily "pretty".   I once called Carol's daughter, Taylor, "Sweet" when she was a few months old and Carol, knowing that my code word for babies is "Sweet", teased back, "How dare you call my baby sweet!" We still laugh. 

As a matter of fact,  I've never been "attached" to other people's kids until Denise and Carol's kids.  Madison was the first baby I ever loved aside from my own. Denise's son, Nathan, was the first toddler I ever loved. Both were absolutely beautiful! And oh, how I loved my own!  

My friends teased me about being a grandmother because I just don't get all touchy feely about babies. I love Zaylee and Miki and Jason.  But, I admit, I'm more comfortable with them, the older they get. I loved my nieces and nephews much more when they were teens than when they were little.  Quite frankly, little kids, aside from my own, scare me! But that doesn't make me non-maternal!  

I digress.  

Yesterday, when Liza was sharing a sweet story about how Buddy surprised her with several new outfits, this same "rude" woman at the bank said to her, "He bought your clothes?!?"  Liza said that Buddy loves to buy her clothes and she loves it when he does.  (And I add that he has EXCELLENT taste!  I'd like him to buy mine too!)  Liza also added that she's never been a big fan of shopping.  (We tease that anyone who's ever shopped with Kelly is traumatized for life and will never find shopping the same again.)  The woman continued to Liza, "You are so not womanly.  You're just not feminine at all."  SERIOUSLY!?!?!? WHO SAYS THINGS LIKE THIS???  

Now, I have to say this... Before they moved to Arizona,  Liza and Buddy took care of Zaylee as much as Kelly did or more.  While at Liza and Buddy's, Zaylee was adorably dressed, head to toe, all of the time.  Her little wild afro hair was always perfect. They loved and nurtured and lived to make her happy, as if she were their own child.  Liza would have adopted Zaylee in a heartbeat.  She was thoughtful and generous and made every moment with Zaylee special.  I was in awe of her love for her niece!   And this made me more and more anxious to see them have children of their own!  Remember how she did monthly dates with the babes?  That was maternal too.  She made every date something unique and special for each of them.

Liza is one of the most thoughtful people I've ever met in my life.  And as for "womanly", she cooks and bakes and is an amazing homemaker and entertainer.  She's creative and organized and so on top of things...even I don't color co-ordinate my cleaning rags.  She's so looking forward to being a stay-at-home-mom to this new baby. Not to mention that she has the most feminine hands I've ever seen!  They are one of her most beautiful physical attributes. 

This woman who said these things to Liza, obviously does NOT know my daughter at all!

Liza's ability to walk away from this woman and not snap back at her has amazed me.  She definitely got that from her dad!  I found this quote last week and personally, I would have said it:  "In order for you to insult me, I would first have to value your opinion!"  Liza won't say it, I'm certain.  But seriously...If I had two minutes with the lady, I'd love to say, "Here's an idea.. If you can't be kind, be quiet."  Truth be told, I probably wouldn't be rude back because Doug has worn off on me over the past four decades.  But, I'd sure want to.

The mama bear has comes out!  That's maternal, isn't it?  Enough said.

Life is good...even when there are mean and unhappy people in it.

Be kind whenever possible.  It's always possible.

bucket lists

Watching TV yesterday while icing my foot, I saw a little blurb about a restaurant in North Carolina.  This restaurant served BBQ pork, coleslaw and hushpuppies.  And my southern roots started to scream my name! My mouth was watering.  Aside from, literally, tasting all of this good food and missing it immensely, I started thinking about my dad and how much I'd love to hop on a plane with Doug and the kids to see him right now.  

These thoughts led to me thinking about other things I'd love to do... my bucket list, if you will.  Over the weekend, while at the ranch, we watched "Two weeks Notice."  There's a scene in the movie where Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant are flying in a chopper over NYC.  That is the number one thing on my Bucket List... take a helicopter tour over New York City!

Amazingly enough... the top few things on my bucket list involve traveling:

1. Take a helicopter tour over NYC!
2. Take the kids to DisneyWorld and the Atlantic Ocean
3. Take a trip to NC and MD for the kids to meet my extended family
4. Tour Washington DC with the kids
5. Take a Church History Trip from Palmyra, NY to Kirtland OH to Nauvoo IL to Jackson MO and then to SLC across the Pioneer Trail.
6. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

We don't do a lot of traveling. I have always loved France and England but I don't have a desire to hop a plane and cross the deep blue sea.  I don't have a huge desire to take a cruise, especially lately!  ;)  I lived on the sunny beaches of Florida through my teen years and I live in the mountains now, so Hawaii has never been a huge desire.  (Although Liza, Carol and Natalie all think it's heaven on earth and that does give me a stronger desire than I've ever had before.)  Mostly, I'm a homebody.  I'd rather spend the money on our home, or furniture or toys than making the trips.

If I won the lottery ( that would be the lottery that I'll never buy a ticket for, so winning it is even less possible),  my first expense would be to fly to Orlando then rent a nice car and drive to North Carolina, Maryland, DC, Palmyra, then Nauvoo, Kirtland, Jackson and the Pioneer Trail.  All in one trip.  Like a month long, see it all, totally go into overload vacation of a lifetime.  (Sort of like Doug and I did on our honeymoon.)  I'd leave NYC out of that trip... it's a grown-up dream trip.  No kids allowed.  ;)

This morning, my wish list is pretty simple...all pretty attainable if I made up my mind to get them.)

• an iPad.  (No, I still haven't gotten one.  Priorities, priorities.)
• New cookware.  (Mine is getting tired.)
• Another red purse.  (Not liking my latest one because it's a deep dark abyss and it needs compartments.)

That's it.  That's all I can think of.  I guess that means I'm pretty content with what I have.  Which is:

• a healthy (except for Quayd's bug) family
• a happy family
• a good marriage (even though Doug killed my trees.  ;))
• a nice home that is adequate for our needs
• vehicles that run and no car payments
• good friends...more than I can count
• pots that will get me by for another ten years, if necessary
• a closet filled with clothes, shoes and purses...and I can only use one at a time
• cupboards and two refrigerators full of food
• a knowledge of the Plan of Salvation and Christ's atonement for us all.

Life is good.  I think I'm making hushpuppies for dinner.  Enough said.

The happiest people don't have the best of everything,
but they make the best of everything they have.

a few good things

Over the weekend, Denise made this "to die for" dip, which we ate with french bread and or chips.  Oh my!  I wanted to share the recipe because it's a must try!  So good!

7 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
2 - 8 0z cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayo
4-6 jalepenos, chopped  (Add seeds from at least one for a little zip)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onion

Mix in bowl.  Stir well,  Put in baking dish.  Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.  

Yesterday afternoon, I dejunked one entire file cabinet drawer, shredded a ton of paper and reorganized my main files.  It's a good feeling but a lot of work!  Paper makes me crazy!  And there's so much of it!  Junk mail, school papers, bills, it's just never ending. I tossed so much stuff!  Thankfully, the computer is lessoning the piles that need to be filed.  Truth be known, we rarely go back to those files for much of anything but it's always the thing that you tossed that becomes the one you need. I recently had an experience where I needed something from 2009.  We are only required to keep three years for the IRS, so that is what I keep.  Dang.  I love my paperwork management system for temporary papers.  Long-term paper management is a whole other thing.  So far, for me, after all these years, the four-drawer file cabinet, getting a regular dejunking works.  Somethings never end.  Paper is one of them.

And the best thing of all... Liza and Buddy are having a girl!!  They had the ultra-sound on Monday!  I am tickled PINK!!!  life is good!!!

A smile is the best makeup any girl can wear!

a very late tuesDAY

I just checked the blog and realized that today's post never published.  I had it done this morning and it would not add Quayd's picture.  I'm not sure what's up with that. Some days, Typepad seems to have a mind of it's own. When I just looked at the blog, there was no Tuesday post.  So... a VERY late post today.  Who knows?

A few rambling thoughts this Tuesday morning...

• Mom did well with her cataract surgery.  I took her in for her follow-up appointment this morning at 8AM.  My mother is most humorous coming out of surgery.  The doctor explained that it was a lot worse than he had expected, which was why it took so much longer.  BUT.  She's doing great already!
• My dad has been  in the hospital and I haven't heard from him in days.  I've not heard from anyone in the family and am hoping that no news is good news.
• MMM-Mmm-Matthew has a new movie, being released this weekend.  It's been much too long... his last few were R rated, so I passed on them.  This one's PG-13.  I hope it's a winner!
• After a visit with the podiatrist,  my foot is back into the lovely boot for the next few weeks.  New meds, new shoe and ice and elevation for a seven month old injury to see it improves the situation.  And in the meantime, the hips get wider!  NOT amused.  Enough medical reports, Sheesh!!!!
• The kids are out of school today for Parent Teacher Conferences.  I did ours last week!  Bonus!
• When I got home from the doctor this morning, ZJ had made pancakes.  The kids were seated at the table having a beautiful breakfast.  I asked, "Where's you learn to make those?"  "YouTube."  How did we live before computers?  I teased Zeej, "There's a little thing I like to call a "cookbook"".  She's amazing.
• I felt so bad yesterday afternoon when Quayd disappeared after school.  I found him curled up in a ball, fully dressed with his hoodie and his robe on.  He had told me when he woke up that he didn't feel well and I gave him the "crying wolf" speech and said that no one feels great on Monday morning before I sent him out the door to school.  OOPS.  MY BAD.  He slept through the night and seems to be feeling much better this morning.  Go figure.   Never a dull moment.
• My husband did a huge no-no this weekend while I was away.  He girded our three huge elm trees so that they will die.  These are the trees that give us shade and privacy and give our yard some charm.  They are also the trees that shed, literally, millions of those little dime-size seed pods all summer long into the garden, the gutters and the pool... sprouting into a million little seedling trees.  Last year, we had more elm starts than strawberries.  They are horrific and nasty, but those trees are beautiful and shady and heavenly on blistery summer afternoons.  I'm not happy about this.  Yes, the maple trees will grow in their place, which will be lovely when they are grown.  But, I'd imagined pushing little mini-Liza on the tireswing under those trees.  It was a sad afternoon when I discovered them.  Enough said.
• Life is good...even when your favorite trees are going to die.

Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.

 

weekend

It was a beautiful weekend at the ranch.  It snowed and snowed all day long on Saturday.  We waited until afternoon for the storm to pass but realized that it was not going to anytime soon.  So, we called our husbands, I called a friend to substitute teach my Sunday School class and we made the decision to stay an extra day.  Doug's first comment was "Well, you'll have enough food."   We'd packed all sorts of munchies and treats, along with some real food, and we were great!  Other than the fact that the hot water heater never kicked in.  So, no showers.  Doug later told me that we should have lit the pilot light.  Oops.  Anyway, it was a great time.  A much needed getaway... we played cards, watched movies, stayed up late (but not too late) slept in and talked and talked and talked.  I came home to a clean house, happy kids and a dinner invitation to the B's!  Perfection!

Wendy had not gone with us to the ranch because she had other commitments, so it was great to get together with her when we got home.  She made Hawaiian Haystacks.   Since my throat surgery and the hives reaction five years ago, I've discovered that I'm allergic to fresh pineapple.  I, having NO self-control and loving it, decided that I'd have just three bites.  MISTAKE.  Two Benadryl and twelve hours later, I woke up, still feeling it!  I told Stott, Wendy and Doug to remind me of this next time.  They all three said, "You said that last time!"  Oops.  My bad.

I'm at the hospital right now waiting for the surgeon to bring mom back into the room.  She's having cateract surgery this morning.  I ran downstairs while waiting to see the podiatrist for my foot while waiting.  This is the foot that was injured when Chili's bathroom door fell on it last fall.  More meds, more treatment.  As I was walking into his exam room, the nurse and I waited for an older couple to pass through the hall.  The man was using a cane.  His wife was holding his arm to keep him stable.  The nurse apologized for the wait.  I whispered back, "At 30, I'd have been anxious for them to pass.  At 50, I say, "There goes Doug and me in no time."  Amazing how time can change our perspective.  

It's been a crazy morning.  Mom's surgery was bumped up an hour, so we had to leave earlier than planned.  My schedule and planning for the day were thrown out the window.  My own doctor decided to do new Xrays, which took longer, so I raced back upstairs here to wait for Mom.  One of those days...when you hurry up and wait.  But, life is good... even with achey feet and mixed up schedules.  Life is good.

Mom's done!  No quote!

party!

I'm so excited for this day!  For weeks, I've been saying that I need a girls night out at the ranch, but I've had enough going on that nothing has happened beyond talking about it.  Yesterday, things sort of fell into place for things to happen.  So, today!  I'm heading to the ranch for a girls night out!  Happiness!  Doug and the kids will hold down the fort.  Dinner's in the crockpot, the laundry is done and I'm ready to play!  It will be a short and sweet trip but it's more than needed!!  Cards, Cokes, treats and laughs...fun!

A few tv comments that I've had on my mind...

• Survivor Tribal Council this week... oh my gosh!  THE best EVER in all thirteen seasons!!! We watched it twice!
• American Idol... I absoulutely LOVE these final five women.  Candice Glover is phenomenal!  I now just grab a tissue before she sings.  Loving all of the women.  Cree is my favorite but Candice is the most amazing singer ever on the show.  And I actually have to admit that I'm loving the judges.
• Jodi Arias trial... guilty.  Period.
• Dancing with the Stars... Not a Kellie Pickler fan in music but LOVE to see her dance!  The entire cast has been so fun to watch.  Loving this season.
• Castle.  The last three episodes have been awesome.  I am loving this season better than any before.  And sooooo glad that they are keeping it clean in the relationship!
• Elementary.  I'm so glad that Liza introduced us to it!  I think it's Doug's favorite tV show.
• No more Amazing Race or Apprentice for us.  That's about our TV lineup the week and it's plenty.

A few other comments...

• I am amazed that "they" can find "the bad guys" so quickly.  I'm praying this morning that they will find the other guy quickly.  As always, one of my deepest concerns is for the parents of these criminals.  Wow, my prayers and thoughts are going out to the people of Boston.  God Bless America.
• I'm grateful for a husband who lets me play!  I'm grateful to have the laundry done!  I'm grateful for good friends!  I'm grateful my lesson is almost prepared!  I'm grateful there's a good place to eat in Preston ID!  

Life is good!

There is more good than bad in this world,
more light than darkness and
YOU can make more light.

keeping it real

I was absolutely moved to tears when I watched this little YouTube video last night.  Dove has it soooooo right!  I want my girls to see this and to understand it.  There is rarely a day that goes by that I do not hear one of them or myself say, "I wish I was more this... I wish I had straighter hair...My skin is too...."  This is thought provoking! 

 

We are our own worst critics.  I thought about this a lot last night. In the past week, I've heard one friend say that they were just too fat, another commented on their mousey hair color, another talked about how they wish they had natural curl instead of their stringy hair, another said, "If I just didn'thave this muffin top."  Funny.  I have never noticed any of those "issues" in any of them before they pointed them out.

I really want to try to work on this and to encourage my girls to do so too.  It's a great lesson for all of us... just sayin. 

 

Buddy's 30!

A few little ramblings this morning:

• Happy birthday to my favorite son-in-law, soon to be father of my grandchild, Buddy!  He's 30 today! Buddy is hardworking, fun loving, smart as can be and just plain awesome!!!  We're very proud of his success in his education and career!  Buddy works fulltime, is still going to school, serves as First counselor in their Ward Bishopric, and takes great care of his expecting wife, Liza!  We love you, Buddy!!! Thanks for being such an important part of our family!  Hope it's a happy day!!
• Still reeling in the news of Boston Marathon bombing.  We're saying many prayers for these victims.
• The doctor is now suggesting that I may need surgery on my foot to remove the scar tissue from when the Chili's bathroom door fell on it.  I'm not amused.  Denise said, "Noooooooo!  Sophia, you don't need another surgery!  You're still recovering from the last one!"  She's right!  I really don't want to do this, but the other option, injections, is a temporary fix.  Apparently, this will be more permanent.    All I know is seven months later, it's still giving me fits!  By the time I've stood to teach my Sunday School lesson or cooked a full meal, my foot feels like when you hit your funny bone.  When my knees are finally improving, I'd like the foot to be co-operative too.  Whodathunkit!?
• Yesterday morning, ZJ walked out the door to school in the snow without a coat on.  I called out, "Zeej?!  Where's your coat?"  She told me it was in her backpack.  I said, "Put it on, it's snowing!"  She said, "But, Mom, it's warm snow."  Okey dokey then.  It was 18 degrees this morning.  Cache Valley springtime. ;)
• It is cold!  But, life is good.

Sometimes it's better to react with no reaction.

sadness

This morning, I woke up, turned on Good Morning America and just started to weep.  After yesterday's news of the Boston Marathon Bombings, there is notthing trivial that I can say that really matters.  I thought about it last night... what can I say?  I decided that it was time to count my blessings.  And that I did for much of the night.  I'd not slowed down all day long and something like that makes one just stop and ponder what really matters.  

Last night, for Family Home Evening, we discussed physical death, spiritual death and the difference between the two.  We talked about the bombing, since it was the first thing Grace mentioned when she walked in from school.  We talked about the family of Emilee Parker, from the SandyHook shooting and how, even though there is grief and sorrow for the loss, having the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation can bring peace during times of trial.  It was a good discussion.  One that we all needed the reminder of.  Enough said.

This morning, I'm thankful...

• that there were not more fatalities and injuries than there were in the bombing.
• that when I read the list of locals, a few people who I know, who were running the marathon, are fine and unharmed.
• that, for the most part, we live in a safe and peaceful part of the world.
• that we have technology and medicine to help those who were injured.
• that I have to gospel of Jesus Christ in my life to bring peace and understanding when times are so difficult for so many.
• that Liza and Buddy are so happy in their life together with their baby on the way.
• that I went to bed last night, with my three youngest children tucked safely in bed and slept soundly next to Doug.
• that before going to bed, I could thank my Heavenly Father for all of these blessings, ask him for many more, and know that He was listening.
• that we awoke, warm and safe in our beds with a day of hope ahead of us.

There are gloomy skies with a light snow falling this morning.   It's hard to say that life is good when so many are suffering, but I would be remiss not to appreciate the fact that there is much good in life.  Some days, we just don't feel like celebrating it, though.  Enough said.

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet.
Only through experience of trial and suffering
can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
 Helen Keller

Monday, Monday...

It's been a crazy Monday.  All day long!  I had an IEP at the school this morning at 9, a doctor appointment right after that and haven't slowed down until an hour ago when I sat down to watch the news about the Boston Marathon and promptly fell asleep.  CRAZY.  So tragic!  More in the morning.  My day has disappeared and I'm still on the go.  Life is good... scary, sometimes sad and shocking, but good.

What defines us is how we rise after falling.

chicks

The best feeling of happiness is when you are happy
because you've made someone else happy.

SERIOUSLY????

I heard about this this week and think that it's critical that voices are heard.  Wanted to share and will probably do so again before the end of the month.

April 8, 2013

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it is considering dropping current broadcast decency standards that ban explicit profanity and "non-sexual" nudity. The FCC is set to drop the ban on f-word, nudity on television and radio stations nationwide.
You can read the press release from the FCC here.

Specifically, if enacted, the new FCC policy would allow network television and local radio stations to air the f-word, the s-word and to allow programs to show frontal female nudity, even during hours when they know children will be watching and listening.

It is accepting comments on the proposal from the viewing public until the end of April.

Current broadcast decency law prohibits expletives and nudity, even if brief or "fleeting." The Supreme Court has upheld the law as constitutionally enforceable by the FCC, despite lawsuit attempts by networks NBC and FOX to overturn it.

TAKE ACTION

Submit your comments to the FCC, urging it to reject any changes to the current policy.

The FCC will not accept general email comments. To be valid, you are required to file a formal comment via the FCC's website.

Please follow these instruction carefully, to insure your comment is accepted by the FCC:

1. Go to http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/upload/begin?procName=&filedFrom=X.
2. Enter the code "13-86" in the "Proceeding Number" box and fill out the few remaining required fields.
3. Enter your comment in the text box provided and click "Continue."
4. From there, review your comment and click "Confirm."

Here is a sample comment you may submit:

I oppose any changes to the current FCC indecency standards that would allow television and radio stations to broadcast expletives and nudity on the public airwaves, even if brief or "fleeting."

The Supreme Court has confirmed the FCC's authority to enforce policies regarding expletives and nudity, especially during times when children are likely to be watching or listening.

Relaxing the current policy would not serve the public interest and I urge the FCC to reject all proposals that would allow for the broadcast of expletives and nudity on FCC-licensed stations.

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2013/db0401/DA-13-581A1.pdf

http://www.snopes.com/politics/sexuality/fccban.asp

friday stuff

It's Friday and I started a dejunking project the minute that the kids walked out the door.  I don't see myself stopping until we are done, which could be afternoon and then I have to take my foot to the doctor.    So, I thought I'd sneak in a minute of blogging.  A few random thoughts this morning:

• I need to host a party!  It's been too long.  Like a REAL party.  Just saying.
• Six weeks later and I still love my house reno.  I mean REALLY love my house.
• Is it wrong to want a hot fudge sundae for breakfast?  Not that I'll have one, but I really want one!
•  NOT ONE plan for the weekend, other than church.
• I find it interesting that I visited the link on our mortgage company/bank about lowering the interest on our home last Friday and since then, I've been receiving phone calls, emails and even snail mail about refinancing in masses from all sorts of other sources.  That's kind of freaky.  
• I hate starting the deductible over at the beginning of the year, which ours is April, for medical insurance.  
• It's pedicure season.  :)  
• This morning, Doug was putting on his shirt and hit the ceiling fan blades in our bedroom.  The man can't get dressed without hitting a wall or the ceiling.  He said, "We need vaulted ceilings."  I said, "We've lived here for sixteen years next week and I think I've hit the ceiling fan once, maybe twice."  He said, "Yeh, but, Babe, you are vertically challenged."  harharhar.
• I hate to admit this but...I'm horizontally challenged too.  ;)
• Life is good.  VERY VERY good.

jeal0usy is when you count someone else's blessings
instead of your own.

Fast five!

out the door in afew...

• I decided to do my annual ironing today.  Yes, I said, "Annual" because that's how often it happens.  You know my mantra, "Life doesn't have to be perfect to be perfectly wonderful."  Well....  Where ironing is concerned, it works!  
• HOWEVER.  Nat called and said, "Let's go to lunch!"  Ironing will keep. Eight down, we won't say how many to go!
• Furnace on.  Windows open.  Windows closed. Furnace on. Fans on.  I love spring.
• American Idol last night.   WOW!!!!  JUST WOW!!!!  HOW is America going to choose between these women!?  AMAZING season of talent.  
• ZJ has informed us that being girlie is much more fun than being a tomboy.  "I'm over that.  Sorry, Dad."  

Life is good!!

silly!

Yesterday, three inches of snow.  Today, it's sunshiney and supposed to be in the fifties.  Spring!  Yagottaluvit!  I do!

Night before last, I called Liza for one sure permission to share their news on the blog. We decided to Facetime a bit.   Liza immediately recognized my "sick voice" before we turned on our cameras. I've shared my silly Facetime "pose" that I do everytime Liza and I skype or facetime. It was almost midnight and I was tired and definitely not up to making my happy face. So, instead, I made a "I feel like hud" face, just to be silly.  I'm sitting there, freezing my "sick" face pose, waiting for Liza's screen to pop up.  Instead of seeing Liza's usual happy "pose",  up popped BUDDY making this scrunched up, distorted, scary face.  I all but dropped my phone and gave quite a startled reaction!  Here, I thought I was being funny and they beat me by a mile!  We busted out laughing so hard that we were all cackling and wiping tears from our eyes.  I kept saying, "We're gonna wake Dad!  We're gonna wake Dad!"  We laughed till we cried.  I know.  It was late and you probably had to be there but it was fun.ny!!  Yesterday morning, when Doug woke up, his first words, "What were you laughing at so hard last night!?"  He was laughing as he asked because he knew that whatever it was, I was out of control. I giggled all day over it. Some of the best laughs come when you're exhausted!

A few more thoughts about Liza and  Buddy and the baby... Her due date is October 6th, the day after my birthday.  She's doing great.  Buddy's a wonderful expectant dad.  He's been just awesome!  I love hearing her daily sweet stories of all the thoughtful things he does for her!  They are very excited!  She's had no morning sickness. Liza has always has been very private.  So, I had to wait to share the news until they were ready.  It just about killed me not to be able to tell my closest circle of friends until Liza and Buddy were ready! I actually told my knee surgeon a few weeks ago because he was sworn under oath to secrecy!  Liza laughed when I told her that!

A few other short ramblings...

• I had not heard a word from my dad for five days. That's NOT normal,  but it was the weekend and I thought maybe he was just busy because he's not answered his phone.  As I was cooking dinner last night, I decided it was time to call my aunt.  Only a minute later, he called and told me that he'd been in the hospital with pneumonia. He's home but still not feeling his best. It's so hard to not be near him!
• I found my mouse!  Over a month ago, it disappeared.  I found it inside a cupboard last night.  Mr. Nobody strikes again!
• I have a 300 page book to read today.  Book group is tomorrow night.  I bought the book, Amazon lost it, sent me a replacement, I loaned it out and now it's been returned to me.  We'll see how it goes!

The sun is shining,  the furnace is running, there's Diet Coke in the fridge, I've survived my cold... Life is good.

SMILE It will make you look better...
PRAY It will keep you strong....
LOVE It will help you enjoy life more.

 

I realize that my birthday isn't till October! BUT!!!

This October, I'll receive the best birthday present EVER!!

Liza and Buddy
.
are having a baby!!!!  

I've waited eight long years to say those words!
(and keeping the secret for the last month has been the hardest part of the wait!!!)  

LIFE IS GOOOOOO-OOOOOOOOOOOD!!!

The love of a family is life's greatest blessing.

conference, anniversary, spring

Spring break is over.  The kids went back to school this morning.  We'd made a list of things we could do while staying home for the break and we managed to check off three out of four.   We baked cookies, played games, slept in the pop-up, watched a few movies, did a puzzle, did some shopping, hiked, worked in the yard and just plain took it easy.  This is a good thing because for the last few days, ZJ and I have sounded like a commercial for some sneezy, achey, stuffy so you can rest medicine.  I'm praying hard that the rest of the family manages to miss out on this one.  We're on tissue box #2.  Ugh.  

Doug and I celebrated our anniversary on Friday night so that he and Quayd could attend General Conference on Saturday evening.  He had planned a night on the town, we made a plan B, so that I didn't sneeze and cough my way through the night in public.  We bought the DVD, "Lincoln", Doug picked up some Subway Sandwiches and the makings for hot fudge sundaes and banana splits.  Quayd had gone camping with friends to Antelope Island, so the girls went downstairs to watch a movie of their own, while we had our "anniversary date".  We loved "Lincoln" and stayed up way too late watching an Oprah special about the movie.  I had saved it a few months ago on the TIVO.  We slept in on Saturday morning, making it a perfect little anniversary celebration.  This was anniversary #36.  I told Doug yesterday that he needs to start planning bigtime for Anniversary #38, since that's his favorite number!  Truth be told, I'd be happy to repeat this one again. It was perfect!

The highlight of the week was, for me, LDS General Conference.  As always, it was fabulous and inspiring. I loved each and every talk, the music and mostly, the feeling of desire to be a better person, to try a little harder and to do my best more often.  I love conference!  I think my favorite quote came from President Monson's closing remarks and I don't think that it was even intended to be a teaching point.  The General Young Womens Presidency were released after five years.  It was a comment that President Monson made expressing appreciation for the outgoing YW Presidency.  He stated, "Service, outstanding.  Dedication, complete."  I have decided that this will be my new mantra!  I can't wait to study/rewatch and listen the talks in more depth over the next six months until fall Conference!

It may be next week before Doug has time to do whatever it is that my Expedition needs and surprisingly enough, I'm still alive.  It's actually been a nice change... I've enjoyed the time alone, staying at home, doing some little projects and some creative cooking. How.ev.er.  I have missed my time with Nat and/or Denise, my Chili's and Firehouse friends and their Diet Coke.  Coke's just not the same at home!

It rained a lot this past week.  There were a few perfect spring days, a couple of cool spring days and a few rainy days.  The furnace ran most of yesterday, so we're still having a typical Utah spring.  Seven more snowfalls to come, says Sophia the weather tracker.  We'll see.

Over the weekend, I created a new recipe that was a huge hit!  I'd tried a sample of a recipe at Sam's Club on Friday with the girls.  It was pretty tasty, but needed some improvement.  I ended up making lots of change and it will definitely be a new fan favorite at home! 

Speecy-Spicy Cream Cheese Chicken Dip

1 - 13 oz can of chicken breast, shredded finely with a fork
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ranch dressing (Homemade is better!)
2 cups mozzerella cheese, shredded
1-2 tbsp. hot sauce (Chilua is our favorite brand)
half a bunch of chopped green onions

Mix and bake in a pie plate for 20 minutes at 350' or until bubbling and golden around the edges.  Use very thick chips or crackers to dip. WOW!  Enjoy!  I'm actually thinking of thinning it down a bit with some milk or cream and then using it as a pizza topping.  

I'm MOST excited about tomorrow's blog!  Enough said!  Life is good!

Rise up to be the person you were designed to be! ~ Deiter F. Uchtdorf

36 years! Live together in love.

Honeymoon morning...SLC airport.

Favorite talk this morning in LDS General Conference was by Elder L. Whitney Clayton.  Here's a summary.  Or you can read/watch it yourself.  Wonderful counsel!  

With the directive to "watch and learn," Elder L. Whitney Clayton of the Seventy shared five principles he has learned from examples of faithful marriages.

1. Treasure. "I have observed that in the happiest marriages both the husband and wife consider their relationship to be a pearl beyond price, a treasure of infinite worth. … They know that no other relationship of any kind can bring as much joy, generate as much good or produce as much personal refinement," he said. "Watch and learn: the best marriage partners regard their marriages as priceless."

2. Faith. He said successful eternal marriages are built on a foundation of faith in Jesus Christ and His teachings. Husbands and wives share a "mutual quest" to be obedient and good. "They do not consider the commandments to be a buffet from which they can pick and choose only the most appealing offerings," he said.

Explaining that faith strengthens marriage and faith grows as individuals keep the commandments, Elder Clayton declared, "Thus keeping the commandments is fundamental to establishing strong eternal marriages. Watch and learn: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the foundation of happy eternal marriages."

3. Repentance. Elder Clayton said repentance is tied to humility. "Repentance helps restore and maintain harmony and peace" while humility "means that both husbands and wives seek to bless, help and lift each other, putting the other first in every decision. Watch and learn: repentance and humility build happy marriages."

4. Respect. He said this comes as husbands and wives "treat each other as equal partners" and "make decisions unanimously." Elder Clayton said husbands and wives "never do or say anything that approaches the appearance of impropriety, either virtually or physically. Watch and learn: terrific marriages are completely respectful, transparent and loyal."

5. Love. "The happiest marriages I have seen radiate obedience to one of the happiest commandments — that we 'live together in love,' (Doctrine and Covenants 42:45). … Watch and learn: successful couples love each other with complete devotion."

To those who are single, divorced, single parents or for various reasons are not in a position to marry, Elder Clayton counseled, "Seek after the ideal of forming an eternal marriage, including by striving or preparing to be a worthy spouse. … One day every promised blessing concerning marriage will be yours."

In conclusion, Elder Clayton said, "Marriage is a gift from God to us; the quality of our marriages is a gift from us to Him."

In the happiest of marriages,

both the husband and the wife consider their relationship
to be a pearl beyond price, a treasure of infinite worth.

Your Wonderful Journey Home

This talk was given by my second favorite man on this earth, President Uchtdorf, to the Young Women last weekend.  The girls and I loved watching it together at home and, what I really loved, was that Quayd and Doug joined in to listen to this talk, as well.  President Uchtdorf always has so much good to share.  His uplifting and encouraging words inspire me like none other!  I'm so excited to hear him again this weekend at General Conference.  Young or old, male or female, this in an inspiring message!  Enjoy!

As you joyfully use the map your loving Father has provided for your journey, it will lead you to holy places and you will rise to your supernal potential.

Play

We are honored this evening with the presence of President Thomas S. Monson, our beloved prophet. President, we always pray for you.

My dear sisters, thank you for the music and the spoken word. All was so inspiring and so fitting for Easter, the sacred season we celebrate this week.

It is a joy to be with you precious young sisters, together with your mothers and your wonderful leaders. You have radiant spirits and contagious smiles. Surely the Lord is mindful of you and looks lovingly from heaven upon you.

I grew up in Zwickau, in the former East Germany. When I was about 11 years old, my father fell under increased scrutiny as a political dissenter, and my parents felt that the only safe choice for our family would be to flee to West Germany. It was decided that the safest plan was to leave at different times and follow different routes to the West, leaving all our belongings behind.

Since my father was at greatest risk, he took the quickest journey, through Berlin. My older brothers headed north, and each found his own way west. My sister—who would have been the age of many of you here today—together with Helga Fassmann, her teacher in Young Women, and some others took a train that passed briefly through West Germany. They paid a porter to unlock one of the doors for them, and after the train crossed the West German border, they jumped from the moving train to freedom. How I admired my sister for her courage.

I was the youngest child, and my mother decided that she and I would walk across a mountain range separating the two countries. I remember that she packed a lunch as if we were going for a hike or a picnic in the mountains.

We took a train as far as we could and then walked for long hours, getting ever closer to the West German border. The borders were tightly controlled, but we had a map and knew of a time and a place where it might be safe to cross. I could sense my mother’s anxiety. She observed the area intensely to see if we were being followed. With each step, her legs and knees seemed to become weaker. I helped carry her heavy bag filled with food, vital documents, and family photos as we climbed up one last, long hill. Surely, she thought, we had passed the border by now. When she finally felt safe, we sat down and started to eat our picnic lunch. For the first time that day, I’m sure, she breathed more easily.

It was only then that we noticed the border sign. It was still far ahead of us! We were having our picnic on the wrong side of the border. We were still in East Germany!

Border guards could show up any moment!

My mother frantically packed up our lunch, and we hurried up the hillside as quickly as we could. This time we didn’t dare stop until we knew with certainty that we had reached the other side of the border.

Even though each member of our family had taken very different routes and experienced very different hardships along the way, eventually all of us made it to safety. We were finally reunited as a family. What a glorious day that was!

Journey Stories

What I have just told you is an experience that is to me a very precious journey. I can now look back on my life and recognize a number of such “journeys” I have taken over time. Not all of them involved crossing mountain ranges or political boundaries; some had more to do with overcoming trials or growing in spirituality. But they were all journeys. I believe that every life is a collection of individual “journey stories.”

I am sure you are aware that every cultural tradition is rich with journey stories. For instance, you may be familiar with the journey of Dorothy and her dog, Toto, in The Wizard of Oz. Dorothy and Toto are swept up in a tornado and deposited in the Land of Oz. There, Dorothy finds that distinctive, yellow-brick road that marks the path for a journey that eventually leads her home.

Then there is Charles Dickens’s Ebenezer Scrooge, whose journey takes him not from place to place but from time to time. It’s a journey right within his own heart that helped him to understand why he became the way he was and to see what would happen to him if he continued on his path of selfishness and ingratitude.¹

One of the great classical novels of Chinese literature is Journey to the West. Written in the 16th century, it tells beautifully the adventure story and pilgrimage of a monk who, with the help of four friendly characters, journeys toward spiritual enlightenment.

And of course there is Bilbo Baggins, the small, unassuming hobbit who would have very much preferred to stay home and eat his soup. But after a knock at his door, he follows the call of the great unknown and steps out into the world, together with a wizard and a band of dwarfs, to fulfill a dangerous but vitally important mission.²

A Universal Story

Don't we love these journey stories because we can see ourselves in the travelers? Their successes and failures can help us find our own way through life. The video we saw a few minutes ago also tells a beautiful journey story. Perhaps these stories also remind us of a journey we all should be familiar with—a journey story in which each one of us plays an important part.

This story begins a very long time ago, long before the earth began spinning in its orbit, long before the sun began to reach its fiery arms into the cold of space, long before creatures great and small had populated our planet. At the beginning of this story, you lived in a faraway, beautiful place.

We do not know many details about life in that premortal sphere, but we do know some. Our Heavenly Father has revealed to us who He is, who we are, and who we can become.

Back in that first estate, you knew with absolute certainty that God existed because you saw and heard Him. You knew Jesus Christ, who would become the Lamb of God. You had faith in Him. And you knew that your destiny was not to stay in the security of your premortal home. As much as you loved that eternal sphere, you knew you wanted and needed to embark on a journey. You would depart from the arms of your Father, pass through a veil of forgetfulness, receive a mortal body, and learn and experience things that hopefully would help you grow to become more like Father in Heaven and return to His presence.

In that sacred place, surrounded by those you knew and loved, the great question on your lips and in your heart must have been “Will I return safely to my heavenly home?”

There were so many things that would be out of your control. Mortal life would be hard at times, filled with unexpected bends in the road: sickness, heartbreak, accidents, conflict.

Without a memory of your previous existence—without remembering that you once walked with your Father in Heaven—would you still recognize His voice amid all the noise and distractions of mortal life?

The journey ahead seemed so long and uncertain—so filled with risk.

It wouldn’t be easy, but you knew it was worth every effort.

So, there you stood on the edge of eternity, looking forward with unspeakable excitement and hope—and, I imagine, also with a degree of worry and fear.

In the end, you knew God would be just—that His goodness would triumph. You had participated in the great heavenly councils and knew that your Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, would provide a way for you to be cleansed from sin and rescued from physical death. You had faith that, in the end, you would rejoice and join your voice with a heavenly chorus singing praises to His holy name.

And so, you took a deep breath …

And a great step forward …

And here you are!

You have, each one of you, embarked on your own wonderful journey back to your heavenly home!

Your Map

Now that you are here on earth, it might be wise to ask yourself how your journey is going. Are you on the right course? Are you becoming the person you were designed to be and wanted to become? Are you making choices that will help you to return to your Father in Heaven?

He didn’t send you on this journey only to wander aimlessly on your own. He wants you to come home to Him. He has given you loving parents and faithful Church leaders, along with a map that describes the terrain and identifies the dangers; the map shows you where peace and happiness can be found and will help you plot your course back home.

Now, where do you find this map?

1. •In the sacred scriptures.
2. •In the words of prophets and apostles.
3. •And through personal revelation from the Holy Ghost.

This map is the gospel of Jesus Christ, the good news, and the joyful way of a disciple of Christ. It is the commandments and example given to us by our Advocate and Mentor, who knows the way because He is the way.³

Of course, simply having a map doesn't do any good unless you study it—unless you use it to navigate through life. I invite you to make it a high priority to study and apply God’s word. Open your heart to the Holy Ghost so that He can direct you along your journey through life.

Your map is full of encouraging and instructive messages from your Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. Today I would like to share with you three of those messages that will help you to have a successful journey back to your heavenly home.

The first message: “Do not fear, for I the Lord am with you.”⁴

You are not alone on this journey. Your Heavenly Father knows you. Even when no one else hears you, He hears you. When you rejoice in righteousness, He rejoices with you. When you are beset with trial, He grieves with you.

Heavenly Father’s interest in you does not depend on how rich or beautiful or healthy or smart you are. He sees you not as the world sees you; He sees who you really are. He looks on your heart.⁵ And He loves you⁶because you are His child.

Dear sisters, seek Him earnestly, and you will find Him.⁷

I promise you, you are not alone.

Now, take a moment right now and look at the people around you. Some may be your leaders, friends, or family members. Others you may have never met before. Nevertheless, everyone you see around you—in this meeting or at any other place, today or at any other time—was valiant in the premortal world. That unassuming and ordinary-looking person sitting next to you may have been one of the great figures you loved and admired in the sphere of spirits. You may have been such a role model yourself!

Of one thing you can be certain: every person you see—no matter the race, religion, political beliefs, body type, or appearance—is family. The young woman you look at has the same Heavenly Father as you, and she left His loving presence just as you did, eager to come to this earth and live so that she could one day return to Him.

However, she might feel alone, just as you sometimes do. She may even occasionally forget the purpose of her journey. Please remind her through your words and your actions that she is not alone. We are here to help each other.

Life can be difficult, and it can harden hearts to the point where certain people seem unreachable. Some may be filled with anger. Others may mock and ridicule those who believe in a loving God. But consider this: though they do not remember, they too at one time yearned to return to their Father in Heaven.

It is not your responsibility to convert anyone. That is the work of the Holy Ghost. Your task is to share your beliefs and to not be afraid. Be a friend to all, but never compromise your standards. Stand true to your convictions and faith. Stand tall, because you are a daughter of God, and He stands with you!

The second message: “Love one another, as I have loved you.”⁸

Have you ever wondered what language we all spoke when we lived in the presence of God? I have strong suspicions that it was German, though I suppose no one knows for sure. But I do know that in our premortal life we learned firsthand, from the Father of our spirits, a universal language—one that has the power to overcome emotional, physical, and spiritual barriers.

That language is the pure love of Jesus Christ.

It is the most powerful language in the world.

The love of Christ is not a pretend love. It is not a greeting-card love. It is not the kind of love that is praised in popular music and movies.

This love brings about real change of character. It can penetrate hatred and dissolve envy. It can heal resentment and quench the fires of bitterness. It can work miracles.

We received our “first lessons”⁹ in this language of love as spirits in God’s presence, and here on earth we have opportunities to practice it and become fluent. You can know if you are learning this language of love by evaluating what motivates your thoughts and actions.

When your primary thoughts are focused on how things will benefit you, your motivations may be selfish and shallow. That is not the language you want to learn.

But when your primary thoughts and behaviors are focused on serving God and others—when you truly desire to bless and lift up those around you—then the power of the pure love of Christ can work in your heart and life. That is the language you want to learn.

As you become fluent in this language and use it in your interactions with others, they will recognize something in you that may awaken in them a long-hidden feeling to search for the right way on the journey back to their heavenly home. After all, the language of love is their true native language too.

This deep and abiding influence is a language that reaches to the very soul. It is a language of understanding, a language of service, a language of lifting and rejoicing and comforting.

Learn to use the universal language of Christ’s love.

And the third message: “Be of good cheer.”¹⁰

Sometimes we become impatient with where we are in our journey, don’t we? If you are 12 years old, you might wish you were 14. At 14, you might wish you were 18. And at 18, occasionally you might even wish you were 12 again and could start all over.

There will always be things to complain about—things that don’t seem to go quite right. You can spend your days feeling sad, alone, misunderstood, or unwanted. But that isn’t the journey you had hoped for, and it’s not the journey Heavenly Father sent you to take. Remember, you are truly a daughter of God!

With this in mind, I invite you to walk confidently and joyfully. Yes, the road has bumps and detours and even some hazards. But don’t focus on them. Look for the happiness your Father in Heaven has prepared for you in every step of your journey. Happiness is the destination, but it’s also the path. “Peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come” is what He promises.¹¹ That is why He commands us to “be of good cheer.”

As you joyfully use the map your loving Father has provided for your journey, it will lead you to holy places and you will rise to your supernal potential. You will grow into the daughter of God you hoped you would become.

Dear sisters, dear young women of the Church, dear young friends, as an Apostle of the Lord I leave you a blessing that you will find your way on this journey home and that you will be an inspiration to your fellow travelers. It is also my promise and prayer that as you honor and live true to the covenants, the principles, and the values of the gospel of Jesus Christ, at the end of your journey Heavenly Father will be there. He will embrace you, and you will know once and for all that you have made it home safely. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

friday!

 

A few things I'm excited about today:

• Quayd took off this morning on a camping trip with our neighbors/friends, the Christensens.  He's very excited!  I'm thrilled that he has good friends that we can say yes to without even hesitating!   It's supposed to rain most of the weekend.  I don't think Quayd cares one bit.
• I went out for breakfast with Carol.  We'd not seen each other in two weeks!  It was so good to stare at each other and gab!
• This afternoon, in a few minutes, a day of playing with the girls.  Girlie stuff.  They love it!  Doug gets the house to himself.  He loves that!  It's rare.
• Tomorrow is LDS General Conference and I can't wait to hear the words of our leaders, these amazing men of God!  It's also Cinnamon Roll weekend, but I'll wait til Sunday morning so that Quayd can enjoy them too!
• Sunday is our anniversary!  Number thirty-six!  I heart this man!   He texted during breakfast that he wants to do something fun tonight.  Love it!
• Life is good!
  
  
   

 

spring break...

a quick thought on Wednesday...

It's spring break.  I'm taking one!  At least today!  

 

 

tuesday

Yesterday was not how I wanted to spend part of our spring break. Migraine.  Alone under a blanket. It rained off and on.  The kids and Doug watched Hunger Games, had leftovers for dinner and went to bed. Woohooo...Exciting....NOT.  Today will be a better day!  The sun is shining and it's supposed to get up to the sixties.  A good start!

Here's another super easy supper, found on Pinterest, but I've changed it up a bit. Here's my version. The family loved it!

Cheesy Chicken Ranch Ziti

2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk 
1 (1 oz) pkg. Ranch Dressing Mix (not the dip blend) 
2 C. cubed, cooked, chicken
1/2 tsp pepper
1 (16oz) bag of Ziti noodles, cooked
2 C cheddar cheese, grated
2 C mozzarella cheese, grated

Combine evaporated milk and Ranch dressing and pepper in a 3 quart heavy saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently until dry ingredients are dissolved. Simmer, uncovered, 25 minutes, stirring frequently. Sauce will thicken slightly.  Cook ziti as instructed on package.  Rinse and drain.  Pour into well-greased 9x13" casserole dish.  Add chicken, sauce, and cheese.  Toss well.  Cover and bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.  Note:  If you cook the sauce on a very low temperature, it will not curdle.  According to the recipe, it may but it didn't affect the taste.  Also, I think it would be great with chopped broccoli in it! Enjoy!

 

Nothing more to say today.  Life is good.

Be in love with your life...every minute of it.

weekend

A few weekend highlights...

• We put up the pop-up trailer on Friday night, which for the kids, was like going to Disneyland.   I don't get it but it works for them.  It is a taste of summer heading our way.  And I do love being out in the trailer in the shade, reading a book, on a warm breezy day.  But, when you have to turn the heater on inside it, I will pass.
• I cooked.  A lot.  Banana Cake, Amy's oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, treats, casseroles, stew, homemade bread, all sorts of fun stuff.  I tried a few new Pinterest recipes.  Will share over the next few days.
• Doug brought up a two pound package of yeast that had apparently been missed in our food storage rotation. I noticed the date on the package and it was three years old.  I now have four loaves or should I say bricks of bread.  They'll make good toast, but I think I'll be tossing that yeast.  I hate it when food goes bad before you even use it!  That's the only downfall to having a food storage room in your home.  Rotate, Rotate, Rotate!
• Doug was one of the speakers in Sacrament Meeting yesterday.  I love to hear his testimony of Christ. Easter was quiet and calm.  We watched Les Miserables after church and dinner.  Connie joined us. Beautiful.  ZJ asked a great question.  "Why would we eat deviled eggs on the day that celebrate Christ's resurrection?"
• Speaking of Easter, I have a small soapbox to climb up on.  It was a delightful day all day.  Our church meetings were very inspiring and uplifting.  We had a very peaceful and happy afternoon in our home.  Then last night, I got on Facebook and a "friend" had posted some extremely offensive things about Christ.  On Easter Sunday.  I have loved this friend dearly for the past twenty years.  I've watched them go through thick and thin.  This friend left the LDS church several years ago and decided that they no longer believe in a God, in Christ or in anything but their own self.  Now, while I couldn't disagree more with their choice and beliefs, I do agree to disagree and continue to love this person.  BUT.  WHY?  WHY can't people who leave any religion leave religion alone?!?!?  It's like they have to prove or justify their choice and the only way they know how to do it is to try to disturb others beliefs.  I do not get this.  And so, on this very spiritual Easter/Sabbath Day, they were the only negative in an otherwise perfect day.  It made me sad that this moment came from someone who I love!  Stepping down now.
• Here's the recipe for this banana cake I found on Pinterest.  It was 

Banana Cake... I doubled the cake recipe to make it in a 9x13 pan.  The cake is very dense.  Very.  But, it's quite tasty.  It was a hit for the family!

Banana Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 tablespoons canola oil
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 large egg white, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large ripe bananas
1/4 cup milk

4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons chopped toasted nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375°. Spray an 8-inch square pan with cooking spray. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Using an electric mixer, beat butter, oil, and sugar. Beat in eggs and egg white, 1 at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla. In a separate bowl, mash bananas with milk. Set aside.

Gradually mix half of dry ingredients into butter mixture. Mix in bananas. Mix in remaining dry ingredients. Pour cake batter into prepared baking pan. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on wire rack.

To make the frosting:  Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese and vanilla. Reduce speed and gradually add confectioners’ sugar. Spread frosting on cake. Sprinkle with nuts.   Enjoy!

Spring break is looking to be a little rainy.  Today, we're watching Hunger Games.  Grace just read them all because it's the theme for our YW Girls Camp this summer, so she wanted to be in the know.  More cookies to bake today and some games to play.  We're just chillin'.  Life is good.

There's nothing like staying at home for real comfort.