Sentiments by Sophia

a day in the life

We had a phonecall from Dale letting us know that his beloved dog and partner, Chanterelle, had passed away.  She has been part of the family since Quayd was a baby.  She was so smart and had more personality than any dog I've ever known.  Dale raised her from birth and I honestly do not think that Chanti every realized that she was a dog.  We tended her for six months when the babes were very young.  They napped on her belly, rode her back like a pony and she took care of them like they were her own.  I'd trust Chanti before any other animal I've ever known.  Pit bulls get a lot of bad press, but I believe with all my heart that if they are treated with love and respect, they will return it like no other.  It breaks my heart to think of Willow and Dale not having her there by their sides any longer.  Doug called her "Wonder Dog".  I adore this sweet friend and she will always hold a piece of my heart.  We love Chanti.  Enough said.

On another tender note:  Quayd had a rough day.  We decided to use our Family Home Evening time as a teaching moment and it turned out to be one awesome and impactful experience. I love it when that happens!  We discussed how the body has different parts and all of them are equally important... if we were all the foot, where would the eyes be? Then, we talked about how Heavenly Father created us each to be so different...some of us are artistic, some musical, some compassionate, some with people skills, some book smarts....   Then we talked about how it would be if we were all the same. If we were all like me, we'd have treats all the time, never have any messes and we'd probably would be too scared afraid of germs and danger to be adventurous in the world. If we were all like Doug, we'd eat wheat and potatoes, never have treats,  and probably fall off some cliff that we were hiking the top of.   This got a little wild and brought many laughs.

Doug asked the kids to name some of their talents and then, what they thought they were on a scale of 1-10.  Doug, then, made the point that Heavenly Father only makes TENS.  He did make the point that I was the exception because I am a twelve.  I love this man.  But, mostly, I loved that Grace determined that she will be a twelve when she's a mom too.  Love Love LOVE it.  They captured the message though.  We each have our own strengths and weaknesses and we are all valuable just the way we were created.  As I was saying goodnight to Quayd, he said, "That was a pretty cool Family Home Evening, Mom.  I liked the lesson.  Thanks."  A mommy moment, indeed.

For our treat, I made another Pinterest find, Cinnamon Roll Rice Krispie Treats.  WITHOUT A DOUBT, THE best version of Rice Krispies I've ever tried.  They were even better than the Oreo ones!  Here's the recipe:

Cinnamon Roll Rice Krispie Treats

1/4 cup butter

1/8 tsp salt

2 tsp  molasses

2 tsp cinnamon

1 (10.5 oz) bag miniature marshmallows

1 tsp vanilla extract

6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal

1 recipe Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows)

Butter a 9x13 dish, set aside.  Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium low heat. Make sure that the heat is low and constantly stir.  Stir in salt, molasses, and cinnamon.  Add marshmallows and stir constantly until marshmallows have completely melted.  Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.  Pour the Rice Krispies into a large buttered bowl and pour the marshmallow mixture over it, stirring until evenly coated.  Spread evenly into the 9x13 dish with a buttered spatula.

At this point, I just let them cool and frosted them, then cut them into squares, rather than the next step because we had them eaten in less time than it would have taken to shape them.  Allow to cool several minutes, then cut while still slightly warm.  Using your hands, round edges of cut squares by cupping your hands around the edges and gently pressing.  

Allow to cool completely then pipe Cream Cheese Frosting over tops of Cinnamon Roll Rice Krispie Treats.  Optional, dust the tops lightly with cinnamon.  I used a light dusting of cinnamon sugar.)

.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients: 

1/4 cup butter, softened

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups powdered sugar

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, whip together butter and cream cheese until fluffy.  Stir in vanilla.  Slowly add in powdered sugar and mix until smooth and fluffy.

Note: I used only half of this frosting and it was still a little too much... and that's coming from the queen of cream cheese!

One last thing...thanks for the encouraging emails (and the teases) about my not eating out for a whole week and not drinking pop.  I'm proud to say that I survived the day without going out to lunch and drank a lot of water.  Instead, I ran some errands with Natalie, baked bread, studied and had a long visit with another friend.  And I'm still alive!  Now, Tuesday... well, we'll see how it goes.  ;)  Enough said!

Truth and Honesty is the oldest and most powerful of all of the human values.

Weekend update:

We did nothing all weekend long...other than church, I never left the house.  Doug worked and I did some fun paper-crafting, watched a few ollllld DVDs, played a bit with the kids and that's about it. Doug and rotated who went to church for which meetings because ZJ woke up feeling queasy, which is apparently going around.  Several people at church mentioned it too.  Lovely.  I did have fun making a fun Valentine's Banner for friend, Marilyn...so much that after I was done, I decided that I needed a smaller version for myself.  A sneak peak yesterday, I'll post the rest in February!

 A few ramblings....

• I have decided that I'm ready for spring.  If  it's not going to be winter, it might as well be spring, right?  ;)  Still waiting for that blizzard and am reminded of about six years ago when we got 30" of snow that came in one overnight storm in March a few years ago.  I loved that storm but would much prefer that kind of snow in January, thank you.  
• ZJ is A.MAZ.ING.  She's the most right brained child of my six.  She received a sewing machine for Christmas.  I've taught her a few basics, but she comes upstairs with stuffed animals, Barbie clothes "that are modest", all sorts of things.  She's a scrapbooker, a seamstress, an artist, a writer.  Now, she's a "mender".  Doug asked her to mend something for him.  And she came upstairs with her jeans on for school last Friday, having sewn on her own patch. It will last only one washing, but she said, "That's okay, I can change it that way."  I love it.  I heart her.
  
  
  
  
• A cute new couple in the ward, spoke in our Sacrament Meeting.  Darling.  Married six weeks.  As she was speaking, Quayd knowing that cinnamon rolls were on my agenda and couldn't stop thinking about them, quietly leaned over to me and said, "Mom, I think that they need some cinnamon rolls to welcome them into the ward."  I'm not sure if he was being thoughtful or assuring that I make them.  Gracie offered to help with dinner (I heart her too) and that changed the menu, so I'll be baking tomorrow.  The boy needs cinnamon rolls!
• I was asked to sign a "release" paper for Quayd to begin taking Seminary next year.  Seminary is a Scripture Study Class that LDS youth grades 9-12 take daily.  They get to take the class during school hours as an "released-time" elective.  It's a great learning opportunity for them.  I love Seminary and was so grateful for the things I learned "way back when" because I'd just barely joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and knew nothing.  LOVE Seminary.  Do NOT love the fact that my boy is old enough to be taking it!  First Seminary and next thing ya know, we're talking dating and graduations and a two year mission.  It's all happening so fast!  I heart my boy!
• I've challenged myself to notgo to Chili's for one week.  Not just Chili's but to not eat out for one week.  AND to not drink pop for the whole week either.  It's frightening, I know.  ;)  I've done well so far.  No pop or anything purchased since Friday at noon.  Denise called at 10:15 Sunday night.  We were so strong and committed at the beginning of the conversation.  We can do it.  We can.  Then, by the end of the call, we were saying, "Well, we'll see tomorrow. Call me in the morning. Well, you have to go out to to to the post office, so we may as well go out since you're already out. Maybe we could go someplace else.  Maybe we can just not drink pop but still go to Chili's.... "  Yeah. We'll see how this goes.  Such willpower. 
• February tablescape is set.  I couldn't wait.  More of that willpower.
• I feel a painting spree coming on.  Just saying.
• Life is really, really good.


It is better to have a life of "Oh, Wells" than a life of "What ifs".

Ready for a little L-O-V-E

Do small things with Great Love.

Organizing the Living Room

Previously posted in January 2011.

Note:  Today, I'm talking about a living room that's more of a company living room.  I'll talk about family rooms another day soon.  I do realize that not everyone has both.  Also, after a few emails yesterday, I'm prefacing today's organizing entry with this precursor... These ideas are what I've found to be helpful in my ancientness and old age for me, in my home.  They are being suggested as helpful tips, but I realize that they may not work in your world.  Thanks!  ;) 

 

 

 

 

The living room is like a window that looks into your personal world. It offers a peek inside your life.  We don’t live in the living room.  It's where company comes to visit.  The living room speaks volumes to the stranger at your door. Is it clean and inviting? Is it a cluttered mess? It’s the public place. It represents and speaks so much about your family and your lives.  It's a great place for you to "speak" you.  Family photos, musical instruments, books, decor are all things that are telling of you and your family.

 

 

The living room should be, in my opinion, the one room in the home that is always clean, vacuumed and dusted.   I realize that not all homes offer the option of not having a TV in the living room, but if at all possible, I recommend it.  When company comes, you want to spend time visiting with them, not competing with the volume of the TV.  It’s also not an eating room, unless it's a party. Not eating in the living room protects the carpet and the best furniture in the house, plus is a major part of keeping it company clean most of the time. In our home, it’s the room where we have Family Home Evening and family prayer. So, this room, in our home, the calm and peaceful room. Just that fact, alone, helps keep down the rough-housing that takes place in other parts of the home.   It's also not a room for homework or projects, but it's great for reading and napping in the sunshine.  Designating your living room for specific purposes is essential in keeping it organized and clean.

 

Here’s a few tips on keeping the living room organized and to maintain the feeling of peace and calm in the living room.

 

Here’s a suggestion for the brave soul. Completely empty the living room of all décor, books, magazines, pillows, throws, plants (live and other) and other “stuff”. Clean the room and then put things back. Think carefully before you return every single item to the room. Is it something outdated that could be replaced by something better? Is it something that could be put away in a scrapbook instead of hanging on the wall because it’s so old? Does it need a new frame? Does whatever you’re about to bring back in need polishing? Scrubbing? Soaking? Tossing? Is it time to start fresh completely? Of all the rooms in the house that you dare attempt this, the living room is the one!

Go through the room and dejunk of all clutter and useless items.  My philosophy is that if it doesn’t enhance or have a purpose in the room (whatever room we're talking about), it doesn’t belong there.   Junk does not enhance any room.

Newspapers can be read and then stacked in a basket or container or another room. Piles of magazine and catalogs can also be stored and stacked elsewhere (if they must be kept). Baskets are great and inexpensive containers for magazines, catalogs and newspapers.  But, even better, stack them in the garage until you're ready to make a trip to the recycling bin.

If you have musical instruments, they are likely kept in the living room, which means that there’s usually sheet music and books to go along with them. Make sure that you have a container of some sort for music. You don’t need to store every piece of music ever purchased near the piano, just the ones that are played frequently and that are current. We have a large square basket in the corner of our living room. It's worked for twenty years.  We call it the “scripture basket”. This basket stores scriptures, the hymn book, the children’s hymnbook and current pieces of music being played. It contains things well and enhances the room.   Try it!

“What-nots”, as my Grannie always called them, are perfectly stored and displayed in the living room. But. Don't over-accessorize the room with whatnots on shelves, tables or walls. Remember that the more you have, the more you have to dust. If you have a collection, a wise investment is a hutch of some sort to keep them safely displayed and it cuts down on the dusting immensely. Where whatnots are concerned, less is better. Less dusting, less worry of things being broken. (This is one of the only issues I have with having so much Christmas décor… it is cluttery!)

 

Keep the living room in tip top shape. Don’t have broken furniture and décor in the room. It doesn’t mean that you have to purchase new everything. Just display your best in the living room. I love the old HGTV show, what was it called, where they’d do a 3 minute segment rearranging furniture in a room. Those ladies would go around the home and pull odds and ends from other parts of the home to make the room look fabulous without spending a dime!

Keep updated photos in your living room. With technology today, even old faded photos can be enhanced and reprinted for near nothing to look like new! And dust your frames!

 

Even more important than the bedroom, laundry does not belong in the living room! Fold your laundry near the laundry room.

 

 

Stereos and electronics are commonly found in the living room.  Electronics are dust collectors, for certain, so keep them dusted frequently.  Keep cords and cables behind and hidden as much as possible.  Have a container for remotes.  If your stereo is in the living room, have an organized system for containing CDs.  If a disc comes out of the stereo, make sure it goes back inside the case, then make sure the case goes back into it's place.  Piles of CD cases are cluttery.  Contain them.

Arrange furniture to make it as comfortable as possible for visiting. Have the seating arranged to allow guests to be facing each other comfortably. Do not crowd the room with too much furniture. (That’s a hard one today because furniture is large and older homes have smaller rooms, mine included.)  Get rid of old broken pieces of furniture, even if it can't be replaced quiet yet.

Make sure that lighting is at it’s prime for reading and visiting. Dust lampshades often. Replace bulbs immediately when they burn out. Make sure that plugs and cords are safely out of the way.

If shoes come off at the front door for the family, have a receptacle for them, rather than huge piles of shoes tossed everywhere to welcome your guests when they visit. A large basket near the door will work. Also if coats come off at the door, a coat tree would be a wise investment. And last but not least, “JUST SAY NO!” to backpacks being dropped off at the front door!

If you enter more often through your front door, a hall table or secretary would be a wise investment for depositing mail and keys as you walk in the door. Never place your keys anyplace but in that container, so that you don’t waste precious time looking for them.

 

Again, clear away magazines and books, frequently. If you have a bookshelf in the living room, dust it regularly and make sure that it doesn’t become a collecting spot for other “stuff”.

 

If you have books in the living room (which it’s a great place to read, so why wouldn’t you?), then have a contained and designated spot for them. Whether it’s a book basket or a bookshelf, keep them together. The book basket is a great idea for families who frequent the library. Store all library borrowed books in the basket and when it’s time to go, you won’t be searching the house for them.

 

 

Keep batteries in clocks! A lot of us are clock collectors today. I love clocks and have clocks everywhere as décor. If you have clocks, keep them running.

 

If you have a mantel, use it as the focal spot in the room, not a gathering place for junk.  Don't overload it with a ton of decor.  Don't store keys, batteries, mail on it.  It's not a catch-all. Keep it simple and easy to dust.

 

Dust your blinds. Vacuum behind your curtains.  It's amazing to me how the spiders just know this is a safe place for their webs! Wash living room curtains, if they're fingerprinted. Wash your window sills. Clean the windows.  Of all the windows in the house, this one should be the cleanest.

Clean under the seat cushions. After you celebrate all of the things that you find, vacuum the inside of chairs before replacing the cushions.

 

 

Dust and clean lampshades, ceiling fan blades and clean all lightswitches.

 Again.  These are some of my successes in organizing our living room.  I hope that they can benefit others, as well!  Life is most certainly good!

 

 "In reading the lives of great men, I found that the first victory they won was over themselves … self discipline with all of them came first."  Harry S Truman, U.S. President

five on Friday

1. Quayd, speaking to Go-Go, our, as of late very naughty, Malti-Poo.  "You is kind.  You is not so smart.  But, you is important."  Love that boy.  He makes me laugh.
2. I'm so over my January decor.  I pulled out the Valentine's bin today, but Grace informed me that it's too early for Valentines Day decorations.  Obviously, she's not been to many stores lately.  Easter Stuff is in bloom.  (no pun intended.)
3. Still no more snow.  Enough said about that.
4. Today's hot tip on Pinterest was on boiling eggs.  Whodathunkit?  Here's a new how-to:
   
   Fill a pot with water and set the temp to high. Add desired amount of eggs making sure the water covers the entire egg. Bring it to a boil. DON”T CONTINUE TO BOIL. Once it begins, remove it from the heat and put a lid on it. Set your timer for 15 minutes.  Ding! Pour the hot water off and immediately fill your pot with cold water. Add as much ice as you can to this water. If it melts in a few minutes, add more. The water should be icy cold when you put your hand in it. If not, continue adding ice. 
   
   After about 10-15 minutes (no set time), pour NEARLY all of the water off reserving about an inch.  Put the lid on and now it’s time to play bumper cars. You heard me, shake those babies bumping them together back and forth. You’ll look ridiculous, but I promise it’s worth the goofy look so you’re not peeling each one under cold running water. Just continue to shake, shake, shake for about a minute and voila! When you remove the lid nearly all of your shell has fallen off the egg and they EASILY peel off without peeling the egg off.  Store them in a ziploc bag (dated-because they have a week long shelf-life) in the fridge. 
5. It's the weekend!  A day date today, but Doug has to work on Saturday, so there'll be no latenight movies this weekend, but I do love Fridays!


Do one thing every day that makes you happy.

 

 

a confession

And now, a confession.  I am teased often about my anal housekeeping habits.  I always respond the same ~ if I weren't organized, I'd lose my head.  And my keys.  And my planner.  And my shoes... well, you get the picture.  BUT.  One thing, which I alluded to recently, that I am not the best at is laundry. 

I do keep up on it and I have a good system for keeping it organized, that's not the problem.  I am not a good laundress.  My mother, on the other hand, is a laundry queen.  She loves ironing.  She is a bleach fanatic.  The woman bleaches and washes sneakers regularly.  Everything she owns looks brand new and is always sparkling white.  Sometimes, the smell of bleach in her house makes your eyes water.  But, unfortunately, I never learned this "talent" from my mother.

In actuality, Mom never taught me one single thing about housekeeping.  I was raised in a sterile environment with plastic on the furniture, white carpeting, glass and mirrors everywhere.  Mom worked all day and apparently, after Rick and I went to bed, she stayed up all night cleaning, because there was never a thing out of place. Honestly.  Before I married Doug, I had never cleaned one toilet, washed a window or done any other housekeeping skill, other than washing dishes a few times and there was that one pair of jeans.  (And I didn't do that right, ask Mom.) 

The reason that I had never done any of those homemaking chores was because Mom wanted them done "right".  "Right" meant her way and her way was the only way.  Heaven forbid that we fold a towel wrong.  So, she did it all herself.  I'm here to say...BIG PARENTING MISTAKE.  (This is not a Mom-bash.  She taught us lots of other good things, such as hard work ethics, go the extra mile, be generous and kind to strangers, help those in need.  She just didn't want anyone doing her housework!)

When I married Doug, it didn't take me long to discover that an ugly ring develops in the toilet if it's not cleaned often, that ovens get dirty, floors need mopping regularly and so on.  I went to our little town library and checked out every homemaking book I could get my hands on.  (As I recall, there were three...one of which was my first Homemaking Bible, Daryl Hoole's "The Art of Homemaking".)  I read these books cover to cover and took notes and read them again.  And I learned.  I asked questions and observed every woman who I admired for their homemaking skills and learned more.  I took classes on homemaking and home management and got proficient enough that after a few years, I was asked to teach the classes.  I'd learned something well enough to teach it.  Cool beans.

I digress.  To this day, I have never mastered laundry.   I'm just plain and simple not good at it.  Again, I get it done efficiently.  I have an organized laundry room.  But.  My socks and unmentionables are never look like new.  Gracie's zebra striped shirt turns grey after a few washings because is it a dark or a light?  White collars on hot pink... well, I just try to not buy things like that.  I'm more of a solids gal.   And then there was this little faux pax, about five years ago, that I'm still horrified about.  I didn't realize that I'd left a tube of red lipstick in the pocket of this special white dress.  I tossed it in the dryer to get out any wrinkles and ten minutes later, this was what I found!  I still cry when I think about it.  
 
Back to the big confession. I have a huge laundry phobia.  Silly as it may seem.  After over 14 years of serving in Relief Society Presidencies, always in the Homemaking department, I have neverwashed the Relief Society tableclothes.  Not once.  Ever. I have always managed to "allow" someone else the "privilege".  For those reading this who are not LDS, you should know that the Relief Society tableclothes, used at most church functions that involve food, are near sacred.  (Not spiritually sacred, but as in prized, cherished, treated like gold.)  The Relief Society President gaurds and protects them with their lives during their tenure.  They loan them out with great reservation and near sacred covenants that you will gaurd them the same, while they are in your possession. I've never lived in a ward that this wasn't the case.  (Justifiably so, because they are expensive and it would be easy to lose track of them or have them not cared for properly or be unavailable when needed.)

So, two weeks ago, when I called our Relief Society President to ask to use the tableclothes for the stake dinner that I was decorating for, she brought them over almost immediately.  (She's a loving, gentle lady and, she didn't even ask for one of my children as collateral.)  She carried them in, folded neatly in a clear storage container, labeled "Smithfield First Ward Relief Society" in permanent marker on the lid.  I cautioned the whole family to not touch the bin, as soon as she left.

Two days later, as soon as the big Stake gathering ended, I gathered them up, along with the help of a member of our Stake Presidency, making certain to count and double count and checking for any serious spots that might need immediate attention, then, put them back, in a bundle, into the storage container. When we got home, Doug carried the container down to the laundry room for me.  And.  For the past ten days, I've stared at it with fear. 

I've been mortified to wash the tableclothes.  I'm 53 years old and seriously afraid of these 12 round pieces of sparkling, white polyester.  What if I permanently set a spot in the dryer?  What if one gets torn in the washer?  What if there's a tube of red lipstick in the dryer? I even considered asking Mom to wash them!

Last night, I stayed up far too late.  It was after two when I climbed into bed.  Doug gets up at 3:55.  I had a good two hour nap but when we woke up, for some reason, the tableclothes were on my mind.  "What if Nyla drops by this morning to pick them up?"  They were just screaming my name from the laundry room.  I got up, went downstairs, removed the tableclothes from the container, checked every inch of every one of them for spots, took a deep breath and washed them. In hot water.  With a little bleach.  Then, I tossed them into the dryer, after checking it for crayons and lipstick or any other foreign objects, and dried them for only a few minutes, for fear that they'd shrink and be more like doilies when I took them out of the dryer.  I folded them neatly and returned them to the bin to return to our kind and wonderful Relief Society President.  All is well.  I really do need to get over this fear.  

So, why do I write this diatribe about tableclothes.  A few thoughts come to my mind:

• We let ourselves worry about the lamest things.  Most of our fears are never come to pass.  There really are enough serious issues in life, why do we let ourselves get worked up over the trivial.
• When we have a fear, the best way to conquer it is to just do it!  Rather than letting something paralyze us, move forward.  Take it on!  What's the worst that could happen? 
• Learn from your mistakes.  Mistakes, generally speaking, don't kill us.  Even with all that red lipstick on my beautiful white dress, I'm still alive.  And I know I won't make that mistake again!
• Teach your children how to work.  Zaylee,  who is barely three, sets the table every night.  Last night, when I said it was almost time to eat, she went straight to the drawer and pulled out the placemats, set them in place and continued to set the table, down to the salt and pepper.  Never be afraid to teach your children age-appropriate responsibilities.  Everyone can and will benefit from their knowledge and skills.
• And last, but not least, if you've ever had a desire to write a book, "How to do laundry well " is a great topic idea.  I'd buy it.

Enough said. 

If you stumble, make it a part of the dance.

a taste of summer in January

The babes had the day off for Parent Teacher Conferences, so we had a very casual day at home after I went to the school.  Gracie and I spent some time playing on Pinterest together.  She's still not got her own account because Facebook doesnt' recognize her name when she tries to log in, even though Pinterest has sent her an invite.  We're waiting to hear from their "Help People".  She can't wait!

I found an "interesting" recipe on Pinterest and was anxious to try it.  WOW!!!  MUST SHARE!  Here's the coolest thing about this recipe... it's 130 calories for one cup!  This is truly a LOT of good in such a small amount of calories.  Doug took one taste and said, "We need to have this once a week."  And most simple to make...just how I like it!  And it's so healthy!

Crab and Roasted Corn Salad

 12 oz. lump crab meat (I bought imitation and chopped it very fine in my food processor)
1 pint grape tomatoes, cut in half (I cut them in fourths)
1 large avocado, diced
2 hot peppers such as serrano or jalapeños, diced fine (seeds removed for mild) (I used one large)
1 1/2 cups roasted corn kernels (I roasted them in a skillet on the stove top until they were brown)
1/3 cup chopped red onion
2 limes, juice of (or more to taste)
1 tsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped cilantro (I used a little more)
salt and fresh pepper to taste (I used lots)

How's that for lots of alterations!  Here's how:  In a small bowl combine red onion, lime juice, olive oil, pinch of salt and pepper. Let them marinate at least 5 minutes to mellow the flavor of the onion.

In a large bowl combine chopped crab meat, avocado, tomatoes, hot pepper and corn. Combine all the ingredients together, add cilantro and gently toss. Adjust lime juice, salt and pepper to taste.  ENJOY!

I shared part of this with some friends, who stopped by after dinner and it was a hit.  We ate it on Townhouse crackers like crab salad, but it can be served as a main dish.  Seriously, healthy, low-fat, and so so tasty!

And now a quick ten list because it's 1:05AM and I'm more than ready for bed!

Ten things I did today:

1. Made a tasty dinner
2. Baked Peanut Blossom Cookies
3. Went to Parent Teacher Conferences
4. Had a Coke with Nat
5. Played a few games
6. Had some time with the kiddos
7. Hugged and kissed my sweetheart
8. Had a paradigm shift.
9. Went for a ride with a friend.
10. Cleaned the bathrooms.

Nine things I didn't do today:

1. Didn't connect with Dad.
2. Did not do laundry
3. Did not pay a bill that I really need to remember to get around to
4. Did not go to Chili's
5. Did not see Denise
6. Did not overeat
7. Did not exercise
8. Did not read
9. Did not get to bed early enough.

Eight things I will be doing on Wednesday:

1. Having lunch with Denise
2. Paying that bill
3. Ordering Melaleuca
4. Charging my camera battery
5. Going to Best Buy
6. Exercising
7. Making Tomato-Mac soup and cornbread
8. Returning tableclothes to Nila

Seven people I spoke with on Tuesday:

1. Wendy
2. Natalie
3. Carol
4. Denise
5. Nikki
6. Kaylene
7. Troy

Six things I ate today:

1. The nummy salad posted above
2. a Grilled Chicken wrap
3. some crackers
4. about 1 cup of Pepsi
5. a lot of water
6. a Peanut butter cookie

Five things I'm thankful for today:

1. Our wonderful furnace
2. My food processor
3. My husband's willingness to work hard for our family
4. My dad's latest cancer-free test results
5. My camera

Four little life lessons from today:

1. Sometimes you do all that you can do to fix something and then you have to just let it go when you know that you can't do anymore.
2. Friendships are treasures, not to be taken lightly.
3. Teachers are among the hardest working individuals in our country.
4. My husband is a gem!

Three things I'm looking forward to:

1. Going to the ranch soon!
2. Breaking Dawn in DVD in just a few weeks.
3. Friday day date with Doug!

Two things I need to give more attention to:

1. Walking every chance I get!
2. Reading more, Pinteresting less.

One laugh from today:

1. I was working on my iTunes Playlist revamp and a rather wild rock song from the 70s came on.  Quayd was next to me at the other computer with the headphones on.  He could hear my music, stopped what he was doing and asked, "Mom?  Is that appropriate?"  Too funny.   Love that boy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

everything

I typed this entry three times and for some reason, when I hit publish, TypePad surprised me with a previously posted entry, losing what I'd typed tonight.  Grrrr.  Forgive the typos and poor grammar.  I'm too afraid to touch anything but publish again.

Recently, I was asked a question that really made me think.  "What kind of blog do you have?"  Not sure what they were seeking in an answer, I asked for more specifics..."You know,  a decorating blog?  a cooking blog?  What kind?"  After much continued thought, even after my answer, I realize that my blog is a cooking blog, a decorating blog, an organizing blog, an entertaining blog, a movie review blog, a personal journal/scrapbook blog, even a blog about my biggest blunders.  My blog is an everything blog.  And tonight... that's what you get... a little bit of everything.  My main goal for my blog, after seven years, is that one day, my posterity can read and feel that they "knew" me and that every day, there's something of benefit for someone.  And some days, that someone is myself.  It works for me.  I so appreciate the many blogging friends that I've made through the years!  Enough said.

And now for a little of that "everything" I was talking about.

A response:  After yesterday's little post of Liza's "haircut emails", I received several requests to show a photo of the haircut.  I'm sorry.  I considered it but decided that it might be someone's brand new haircut and they may feel terrible knowing that Liza thought it was cute for a troll doll.  (wink-wink) 

A Zayleeism:  While I was playing with Go-Go,  Zaylee was very entertained, just belly-laughing until I made a comment like, "Grammie is such a dork."  Zaylee stopped mid-laugh and said, "No, Gwammie!  You not a dork!"  I teased, "Oh, is Go-Go a dork?"  She said, "No!  Gwammie!  Go-Go's not a dork.  Girls are not dorks and dogs are not dorks!  Just only boys can be dorks!"  She's barely three!  Where does she come up with these things?

Klutz in the Kitchen: In the past week, I've shared the details of the broken Corelle Cup in the crock pot full of Chicken Soup.  I've not shared that I ruined a double batch of Rice Krispie Treats by petrifyingthe marshmallows.  I ruined Wendy's jello salad by squirting aerosol whipping cream on it just before a Relief Society dinner and within seconds, it turned into liquid mush.  AND.  I made our favorite salad ~ spinach, mandarin oranges, craisins, mozzarella cheese, poppy seed dressing and sunflower seeds.  When I poured the cup of sunflower seeds in to the mix, I also poured myself a handful and discovered that they were rancid.  One month old and rancid.  $15 of salad into the disposal.  Sadness.  Even Doug couldn't eat it!  Sometimes, it's just better to order in.

Dinner: This tasty recipe, found on Pinterest a few weeks ago was our Monday night dinner.  SO good and very easy!  I took a quick photo before they were all devoured!  And the best part of the meal was that when every bite was gone, I announced to the babes that they had just eaten one very large onion and one very large green pepper.  Gracie proudly responded, "I know!  I saw that!  And I had one bite without a pepper and it wasn't as good as the others."  SCORE for the onions and green peppers!  Happy day!

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Adapted from Rachael Ray

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons steak sauce (I used Worchestershire)
1 cup beef stock
Salt and ground black pepper
4 dinner rolls  (It made enough for 10 at our table)
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk
1 cup provolone, shredded

In large skillet over medium-high heat add the oil and then brown the ground beef, about 5-6 minutes. Add the onion and green pepper and cook another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables start to get tender. Stir in the steak sauce and beef stock, season with salt and pepper, bring up to a bubble and cook about 2 minutes.

Split open rolls and remove most of the soft insides, leaving a bed to hold the meat mixture. Toast the rolls and set aside.  (We skipped this step because we love Lee's Ranch rolls.) 

While the meat is cooking, melt the butter in a medium-size pot over medium-high heat. Stir in the flour and cook about 1 minute. Whisk in milk, bring up to a bubble and let thicken, about 2 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in the cheese.   Enjoy!

To serve, place a scoopful of the meat mixture onto the bottom of the rolls, then top with the cheese sauce and replace the top of the roll.

A new product:  I went to the Scentinel Candle Retail Store for some new post holiday scents.  Oh my!  They have a new "not on the shelves yet" product ~ Cheesecake! Mixed with Apple Crisp, my home smells divine! Oh, my, Oh my!  The Oatmeal Cookie will always be my favorite, but seriously, check it out asap! 

Weather update:  It's snowing.  Again.  Most of the day.  Less than an inch of little teeny tiny crystally pellets.  Now, it's getting colder and we're getting black ice.  Such a strange winter. Please pass a blizzard.  A real one, please.  Oh my.  I just heard the snowplow drive by.  One question:  What's it plowing?

Be so happy that when others look at you, they become happy too.

weekend stuff

Weekend update:  Friday, day date with Doug.  We fell in love with Chili's new Sweet and Spicy Chicken.  It's to die for! Friday night, double-date night for Doug and I to Cafe Sabor with Stott and Wendy.  After dinner, I went south to Carol's.  I'm VERY excited to be hosting a bridal shower for her daughter, Madi!  A late night with Carol, gabbing, planning and somewhere in the middle, we watched Abduction, the Taylor Lautner movie.  WOW.  Suspense from the get-go.  He could be the next Tom Cruise with his stunt abilities.  And that smile.  He's a cutie.  I actually forgot that he was Jacob after a few minutes. 

Saturday morning, Doug and I were lying in bed thinking about his need for a home office.  Our home has five bedrooms. We need one more.  Somewhere in the conversation, I had this idea.  A BIG idea.  A few years ago, my mom moved in after her cancer diagnosis.  At the time, I had a new mission-style computer cabinet in my then scrapbook room.  To give mom a main floor guest room, we moved the hutch downstairs, with the help of six very helpful friends.  However...they teased, "when you want it back upstairs, don't call us!"  Moving it was a nightmare!  We knew that it would have to be disassembled to bring back upstairs.  I digress. 
And so... I had this idea... let's disassemble and then move that cabinet back upstairs, then rebuild it in our room and move my armoire downstairs to replace it in Quayd's room.  Again, this meant disassembly, not to mention emptying cabinets, changing dressers and their contents, rearranging other furniture and more.  At first, Doug had that "deer in the headlights" look.  Then, after some discussion, we agreed that, yes, it might mean a day of labor to get it done, but then once done, he would have a perfect solution.  He would no longer have to "set up and break camp" every time he needed an office and he would have the privacy that he's missing when working at the kitchen table or in my gallery. 

Long long story short... by the end of the day, we were enjoying Pizza Hut dinner and Doug, now, has a lovely little personal space of his own.  And.  Best of all!!!  He can close the door on this hutch and I don't have to see one bit of clutter!  The one space in the house that is and always has been "off limits" to me and my cleaning obsession is Doug's dresser and desktop, when he had a desk.  So, this is a great win-win solution.  He has his space and when he's not working at it, he closes the door and it looks lovely!   It was a huge, full-day project, but Doug was very happy when it was done.  As we reassembled, there was much teasing... my philosophy, "if it doesn't enhance the space, it doesn't belong there."  He came up with all sorts of things that he thought could be enhancing... tools, boots, all sorts of things up to "enhance" his globe.  NOT.  I love that this man makes me laugh every day.

We finally had a beautiful little storm on Saturday.  It was snow, then slush, then rain all day until later in the afternoon when it started snowing THE biggest snowflakes I've ever seen in my life.  Everyone was talking about how huge they were.  We're talking tennis ball size snowflakes!  BEAUTIFUL!  We only got a couple of inches of snow and then it turned very cold and the snow became crunchy and icy.  Still, it's white!  More snow expected this week.

Best laugh of the weekend:  Grace and I found a cute haircut on Pinterest.  Well, I thought it was cute for me!  So, I sent the photo to Liza.  Immediately, I started receiving several emails from her in this order:

Liza:  For a formal dance?
Liza:  For a troll doll?
Liza:  For a baby?
Me:  Cackling now.
Liza: For a Chia Pet?
Liza:  For DAD??!!?!??
Me:  Choking and coughing now.
Liza:  Hehehe.  I think I am funny.
Me:  You just made my blog.
Liza:  Oh dear.

I guess I'll pass on the haircut.  BTW, Gracie is most excited about setting up her own Pinterest account.  She's my decorating girl.  

Sunday, we enjoyed a celebration of the return of our favorite niece, Jocelyn (not to be confused with favorite neices Tessa, Brooke, Lindsay, Liz and Becky and the younger girls...) from her LDS mission to Houston Texas.  Jocelyn really has a special place in the hearts of my girls.  They were thrilled.  The meeting was wonderful and the family gathering after was lovely.  Dinner was excellent.  Catching up with family is always the best.  We actually drove back home to grab my camera and I never took a single picture.  Bad Aunt Sophia.

One other special moment for me was the sweet note I received from favorite niece Tessa, thanking me for my help with her wedding.  My favorite thing, she referred to me as her "own personal fairy Godmother".  I'll take that as one of the best complements I've ever had from anyone in Doug's family.  Sweet.  I heart Tessa and Kellan.  I know that the wedding was in November, but I couldn't pass up a chance to post another shot of my lovely niece and her sweet hubby!

It was a great weekend!  What more can I say?  Life is good.

What you do today can improve all of your tomorrows.

snowballs or snowflakes?

Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things,
but just look what they can do when they stick together. 

Bathroom Organization

Previously posted in January 2011.  

The first and most important step you can take in dejunking and reorganizing your bathroom is to go through every inch of the room, and get rid of everything that isn't being used.    Grab a large black plastic trash bag and you'll be surprised at how quickly you can fill it.  Get rid of every outdated prescription, old half full bottles of conditioners, lotions, bath oils, broken brushes and combs and make-up.  Empty every drawer, cupboard and shelf completely.  Before replacing things on the shelves,  if needed, line the drawers and shelves with fresh contact paper or drawer liners.  Then, re-determine the purpose of each storage area in the bathroom.  Will the drawer be for cosmetics or first aid?  Hair care or manicuring?  Will the shelf in the closet or under the sink hold towels?  Decide what will work the best in use and in keeping things organized in the future.

Mini storage containers are especially excellent in the bathroom for sorting products rather than just having a shelf full of "stuff".  Example:  I have a 24" long plastic basket that is about 6" wide and fits perfectly along the edge of the shelf in my bathroom closet.  This contains all liquid soaps, body washes and lotions.  Another smaller plastic bin holds bar soaps.  Another holds headbands and larger hair accessories.  Assign different containers individual purposes.  Some suggested sorting ideas:

• Lotions and skin care
• facial care
• hair care
• manicure
• first aid
• cosmetics

A few tidbits:

• There are some pretty clever ways to store toilet paper.  A basket on the back of the toilet tank will hold a few rolls.  A large tall thin decorative trash container works.  I just store mine in the cupboard next to the john.  They are out of sight, kept dry, close when needed. 
• If closet space is limited, a basket with rolled up washcloths or handtowels sits well on the top of the toilet tank. 
• A separate plunger is a neccessity under every sink in the home.  Each plunger should be labeled on the handle with a permanent marker, "Guest bath", "Downstairs bath", "Master Bath" and especially the "Kitchen" plunger, which should be stored under the kitchen sink!  Plunging the sink isn't so bad when you know it's not the pooey plunger.  No one wants to have to race around the house to find the plunger when the one bathroom is flooding over with who knows what onto your floor. Plungers aren't pretty, so store them out of sight.  And if it doesn't fit under the sink, you're actually "allowed" to cut the wooden handle down enough that it will. 
• Under the bathroom sink is a great place to hang a paper towel roll.  It can be used for cleaning the mirror, that last wipe after cleaning of the toilet (especially that little strip of porcelain between the seat and the tank), or just for little hands instead of having the kids grab a huge bath towel and toss it in the wash or leave it on the floor after they dry their hands. Just make sure to have a trash can near by for used ones.
• A great way to store a blowdryer or curling iron is in an wooden or metal toothbrush holder that has the little cup hole in the center of it.  It can be mounted inside a closet wall and is convenient to toss the tool in the hole without worrying about melting or burning anything.  Another way is to hang hooks inside the bathroom closet and just hang the irons and dryers.
• For the gazillion hair clips, bows and barrettes, hang a 1" wide piece of ribbon to the back of a closet door.  Clip them on for easy access and storage.  Have a huge basket that larger ones can just be tossed into.
• The best tool I've ever found for pony tail bands is a metal ring that they can slip onto easily.  It's a cool little gadget and the girls actually think it's fun to put the ponies onto it, so that helps.  Fun gadgets always help.
• A hamper or laundry basket is a neccessity in any bathroom.  If there's no place to put them, the clothes and towels will always end up on the floor.  Face it, with kids, even if there is a basket, they will sometimes still land on the floor.  But, a basket helps immensely, even if you're the only one picking up!  Baskets seem to have more success, because, things with lids require the extra step of opening.  One step less, just tossing things into a basket is more simple.  Store it out of sight in the bottom of the bathroom closet.  
• Fold towels the same way and when they go onto the shelf, "aim" the folds all to the outside of the shelf.  It makes it easier to grab a towel without grabbing the one below it and looks much better on the shelf.  They'll look just like the linen department at your favorite store!
• Medications should not be stored in the bathroom.  The bathroom is the warmest room in most homes and by far, the most humid.  Heat and humidity both shorten their shelf life.  Storing them in the kitchen is better for the meds, as well as your clutter control.
• If you have several members of the family sharing a bathroom, assign a color to each person.  Then, have colored towels, a baskets/containers, washclothes, toothbrushes... everything...in the same color. This avoids confusion as to who's is who's.
• A few winters ago, after repeated rounds of the flu, I purchased little pencil container for each of the babes at Staples.  Each child gets their own container filled with their own toothpaste, toothbrush and floss.  Germaphobe that I am...I thought about how we put our toothpaste directly on the toothbrush and we all share the toothpaste and we toss them all in the same container or on those little toothbrush holders that collect germs and leftover toothpaste and dare I say it, spit.  That's a guaranteed way to share your cold and flu bugs.  It's been a great discovery for keeping down the germs and organization.  Make sure to toss them in the dishwasher for an occasional sanitizing.  The pencil holders are stored inside the medicine cabinet, out of sight like they should be.  (Again, if it doesn't enhance the look of the room, it should be put away.)  (By the way, ZJ decorated hers with stickers.)
• As mentioned a few days ago, a drawer in the bathroom, easily accessible, is a great place for a little first aid "station".  Bandaids, a few topical ointments that kids are not afraid of, some wipes... most kids will enjoy being their own doctor for little owies.  This helps assure that what you need will be where it's supposed to be when it's a real emergency, prevents unnecessary messes in the bathroom and saves a lot of crying to Mom when they can do it themselves.
• The little plastic three drawer storage containers are great for a bathroom.  They fit under the sink.  One drawer can be assigned to each child to keep their own personal hygiene items.  Label them!   They are also wonderful under the sink for containing things like feminine hygiene products and extra hair care products, soaps and body washes.
• Hang a shower caddy over your shower head.   Don't clutter your tub/shower with 21 bottles of shampoo, conditioners and body washes along the edges of the tub, in the window and in the corners.  If multiple people are using different products, purchase individual caddies that they can put in and out of the shower and return to it's home after use. 
• If your kids are small, have a drip-dry type basket or mesh bag to hang in the tub and whatever fits in it will be plenty if bath toys.  Rotate the bathtoys, if necessary, but there's no need to have that many toys in the bath. 

My three favorite bathroom ideas are these:

1. Have a clock in each bathroom.  It helps inkeeping track of time when you're getting ready or when you are leisurely soaking in the tub with a magazine and bon-bons.  (We all know that happens so often.)  What other room are you usually worried about how much time you have before doing something?   It's also nice to say, "Ten minutes!" and know that they can keep tabs on the time too.
2. Hang an extra spring type shower curtain rod inside your bathtub on the back wall.  This is a great place to hang towels to dry and not have them all over the bathroom.  Plus, it's a wonderful way to hang wet swimsuits, damp clothes, snowsuits, wet socks and gloves rather than having them clutter the entire bathroom and making carpets wet in other rooms.  Honestly, you'll think that this was the best $10 you ever spent on organizing.
3. And the last is to purchase the big coat hooks and hang them on wall behind the back of your bathroom door, if possible.  One hook for each person that uses this bathroom.  Then, as previously mentioned, give everyone their assigned color towel.  But, first... sew a four inch long piece of heavier ribbon (canvas is great!) at the center of the long side of a towel.  This will act as a "hook" for the towel, but not interfere with folding them out of the dryer.  Each family member can hang  their towels after use and the "hook"/ribbon helps it stay secure.  This stops all arguments of who left their wet towel on the floor, who didn't clean up the bathroom.  The same works for washcloths and hand towels, as well.  

And my bonus tip for a nice bathroom... do not tea-stain an americana quilt in the bathtub and then use fifty cleaning products together to try to remove the stain from the tub.  My tub lost it's finish because I mixed cleaning products that weren't meant to be mixed.  Lesson learned.

Inspiration is like a bath.  It doesn't last and needs to be had frequently!

 

Two good things... very good things!

Here's two of my most recent organizing projects.  I have died and gone to heaven!

In the bedroom... Jewelry.  I have a fishing tackle box, a real jewelry box, a cute earring holder and a large hanging necklace holder.  BUT.  The necklaces were always getting tangled.  A while ago, I was in Carol's daughter, Taylor's bedroom and saw this idea.  I couldn't rest until I tried it myself. While admiring Taylor's cute walls, we discussed this great idea and Jamie, Carol's niece/my friend, commented that her necklaces were always so hard to get to that she rarely wore them.  "I guess if I organized them like this, they'd get worn more!"  And that, my friends, is what inspired me!  There's days that there's no time to untangle or sort through.  With this system, it's just grab and run.  Love, love LOVE it! 

Here's my "how-to" (or should I say, Doug's?):

We bought a 4'x8' pegboard at Lowes.  ($18)  We had the guy at Lowes cut the board into four boards, various sizes for different locations. (free) This one is 32" wide, just  a bit narrower than my bedroom door.  (I don't have a walk in closet, or it would be there.)  We also purchased one eight foot long 1"x2" board and asked the guy to cut it into eight 1' pieces.  (80 cents!) $19 = the makings for four jewelry boards.  Once home with the pre-cut boards, Doug simply measured and found the center of the pegboard,  then, found the center of the 1x2" board, lined them up to match and drilled it into place on the wall with 3" grabber screws...one 1x2"board at the top and one at the bottom of the pegboard, to give the pegs the space needed away from the wall.  DONE. FINI!

Thanks to Lowe's free service of cutting the boards, it took ten minutes total to mount!  And then came the fun part.  I purchased a "Value Pack" of peg hooks at Lowes for $9.  I would not do that again.  Many of the pegs were odd sizes that I would not use.  However, while buying lightbulbs at K-Mart, I happened upon a package of 40 one inch pegs for $2.79!  SWEET!  All the same size and two shapes.  You can place the pegs anywhere you'd like and rearrange them as needed.  Organizing the jewelry was the best part! 

A few random thoughts about the project:

• One of the boards that I cut is for Denise.  She has tons of earrings.  For hers, I'm cutting a piece of heavy gage wire mesh ( with squares that are about 1/2") and will be hanging it from four pegs on the board, so that she can hook her earrings into the mesh.  SIMPLE!  I'd be doing the same if I didn't have my wonderful Rodworks hanger,  I took this photo the day I purchased it, a few years!  Today, it's almost full.  When it is, I'll add the wire mesh to my pegboard, like Denise's.
  
  
• Hanging this pegboard on the back of a door that opens and closes regularly would probably not be a good idea because the jewelry would be swinging with the door and end up closed in the doors or flying off the hooks.
• Painting the pegboard the same color as the wall would be simple, however, I opted for white so that I could see the jewelry better than had it been on my chocolate brown wall.  Taylor's is pink, like her bedroom and looks awesome!   For her, at 16, a jewelry maker, it does double duty as room decor!
• In the "Value Pack", there were a few hooks that had loops for hanging tools, like screwdrivers.  I used those loop hooks to hang my sunglasses and a mini-flashlight.  When the kids have taken all of the other flashlights in the house out to the trailer, I'll still have mine in a place that I could grab it, even in the dark!
• The total cost of one board ~ $5.00 per mounted board, plus 30 hooks for $3.00=$8.00!!  We have enough pegboard for four boards, so Denise, and both of my girls get one too!

My next project was even more simple. This plastic/canvas shoe rack was another Lowes purchase.  (I looked everywhere and liked this one the best.)

This has truly made kitchen organization heavenly.  By removing the odd shaped items, rarely or occasionally used items and larger items from my kitchen drawers, I'm not having to shuffle through all of them to find the basic ladles and spoons.  I purchased this shoe organizer at Lowes for $10.  Doug removed the old mounted Rubbermaid foil and plastic wrap organizer that was very tired from the inside of the pantry door, giving me an entire wall full of space! The items now stored in this organizer are simple to access, no more sorting and in clear view once the pantry door is opened.  Doug asked, "what happens when the plastic tears?"  We buy a new one!  If it lasts only a year, that's less than eighty cents a month to not have to waste time or poke or cut fingers while plundering in search of a chip clip!

A few thoughts about this:

• First, the aluminum foil on the top row drives me insane because I want it at the bottom with the Ziplocs and parchment, but Doug said that the foil would be more sturdy at the top. Men are so smart. ;)  The others boxes remained at the bottom because it was easier access for the kids. who use them as much as I do.
• Storing the cords/plugs for my electric appliances like this just makes me want to do a happy dance in the kitchen!  No more tangled mess or pulling out three before you get the right one! 
• The other items, top to bottom, left to right:
  
  Those awkward shaped tupperware funnels that don't fit anywhere.  (I'm a believer in duplicates of items that you frequently use), Pampered Chef tongs, which I love but they won't lie flat in a drawer because of the little handle poking up (awkward shapes are perfect in this!), all of the accessories to my Hand Mixer and then the beaters. 
  
  Three different types of icecream scoops, PC Melon Baller (btw, this scoops the perfect amount of pizzelle batter!), the PC apple/peeler/corer/slices and then two other apple tools.
  
  PC Pizza Cutters (I have two and they are both always in use for everything!)  candy thermometer, biscuit cutter and chip clips.  (Every kitchen needs about 3 dozen of these.  Most of mine are in use all the time.  Having one place for them, you don't have to waste time searching when the pretzels are left open!
  
  PC Cookie Press tips, the Cookie Press (which I've used for cookies about three times ever, but use for deviled eggs and stuffing cream cheese frosting into strawberries often!) The odd shaped item is my old fashioned southern style chopper.  (I've never seen one in a store in the west but I use it as much as my food processor.) Pampered Chef Garlic Press.
  
  Bottom Row: My canning jar lifter and pickling spice/tea ball.  (Both should have been put away with the canning goods last fall, but somehow ended up in the drawer.  I'll know where they are when I need them next fall, though.  Then the parchment, Ziplock sandwich and gallon size bags.

This system is awesome because my drawers are less cluttered and it's much easier to find spatulas and spoons than ever before!  Love it!  Ten bucks, a little time dejunking and voila!  LOVE LOVE, LOVE it!!! 

LOVE LOVE LOVE an organized home!  Enough said!  Have a great weekend!

Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are.
When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.

 

a wish (happy birthday, miki!) and a goal (project time!)

Mikelle is two years old.  The B's had us over for her little birthday party last night.  She was just fun to watch, as she discovered her stack of gifts and walked around passing them out to everyone in the room.  To me, Miki looks like a little Hummel figurine.  She's a doll.  Doug and I were discussing with Stott and Wendy just how how amazing it is that two years have gone by since we sat together in that hospital room, praying for all to go well with the birth and adoption.  And go well, it has.  Doug and I give thanks each and every day for Stott and Wendy and the love that they have shown Miki, as well as our family.  She's spoiled rotten!  And we wouldn't want it any other way.  It makes Doug and I laugh everytime we see her.  She's starting to talk up a storm and my favorite thing to hear her say is "Grampyyyyyy!"  She drops everything when she sees me to ask, "Where's Grampy?!?"  It's precious.  I don't mind playing second fiddle to Grampy at all!  Many of our other friends comment frequently that this was one adoption where two families, literally, adopted each other, not just one family adopting a baby.  So so true.  And So So wonderful!  We love the B's.  We love Miki.  We love being family and are grateful to this sweet little girl who brought us all together as family.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MIKI!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So.  I wonder.  If this were my laundry room, would it always look like this?
 

 I know me.  And I know that if this were my laundry room, no one would be allowed to put any dirty laundry in it because I'd want it to look this perfect all of the time!  I have a friend who's laundry room is larger and more beautiful than even this.  It. Is. A.MAZ.ING.  She has eight children.  They built one of the most beautiful homes I've ever been inside.  It is meticulous.  When we walked into the laundry room, my first words were, "Does it always look like this?"  Her answer was "Pretty much."  She then explained to me that each of her children had laundry responsibilities and it helped her with keeping up on things. 

I have five (well, six, because I wash as much of Zaylee's laundry as I do my own) people to keep up with.  My laundry is the bain of my existence.  I do keep up with it.  I do keep the laundry room functional.  BUT.  It's tiny.  It's crowded and, because I'm so anal about keeping the house company clean, the laundry room tends to become the "catch-all", requiring more attention than a place for sorting and folding laundry.   And for the record, company is never welcome in my laundry room.

SO. I have a new winter goal.  I'm going to go through my laundry room, do some serious dejunking and then do some actual decorating.  Currently, it's the only white room in our home. I don't have new appliances.  I won't be getting them anytime soon. And it won't end up looking anything even close to the room above.  But, I can do better.  And I will.  And I may even take a picture when I'm done and share it. We'll see how it goes.  A public self-challenge.  Nothing like it to get motivated, right!  Besides, it's winter.  And I needed a little something to keep my busy, right?  Enough said.

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.

if you can't say anything nice...

It's been a very rough day. As a result, I'm sharing ten happy thoughts for the day.

According to the latenight weather report, "Twenty-four hours from now,we'll have seen several inches of snow."

   2.

Homemade pizza.  MMMM.

3.

The laundry is all done.  (Till tomorrow.  LOL)

4.

American Idol begins tonight.

5.

My niece, Jocelyn, is home from her 19 month LDS mission!

6.

One of my all-time favorite comments ever: Seriously Soph??!! LOL. do you EVER post a recipe without cream cheese? You should just name your blog, Cream cheese and us..LOLPIMP!! Looks good though!

7.

A new Tom Hanks movie.  Not even sure of the name of it but Julia Roberts and Tom. Bound to be good.

8.

Did some major dejunking in the gallery again.  Some days I think I should just empty it all then I remember all of the fun projects I can complete by simply opening those bi-fold doors.

9.

Five little words ~ "And this too shall pass."

10.

Did I mention that it's supposed to snow ~ serious snow!?

Learning to ignore things is one of the great paths to inner peace.

 

a few things I'm loving these days...

Hugo.  Seriously, I love this movie.  I'd bought the book, Hugo Cabret for Quayd's birthday two years ago.  It's quite unique.  It's a thick book that looks intimidating until you open it and see that over half of the book is filled with amazing illustrations.  When I heard that it was going to be made into a movie, I had told the kids that we'd go and see the movie once everyone had read the book.   Grace finished it today.  The movie is like nothing I'd ever seen.  Apparently, Martin Scorsese's grandchild was reading the book and was so enthralled that he became interested and the result is this film.  It's wonderful.  Intriguing, exciting, outstanding.  I highly recommend it for anyone of any age.  It's got the technology of today, but the feel of an old-fashioned "Heidi".  We saw it for our family activity with the B's and loved it.  It comes out in Blue-Ray in April and we'll be buying it on the release date.  Loved it!  And if I'd have known Jude Law was in it (remember I don't watch previews), I'd have been there on opening day.  Love him too!  Again, it's an amazing story.

Chili's began serving from their new menu today.  If you're looking for a tasty lunch, the new guiltless chicken salad in a honey-lime vinaigrette is a must try!  LOVED it!  The new Philly Steak and Cheese sandwich is on the best bread I've ever had in a restaurant... however, I'm thinking that this one is probably going to be one of their highest calorie lunches.  Oh, but don't was all need an occasionally guilty pleasure?! And if you like fire and spice,  try the new grilled shrimp tacos.   (Note:  order a glass of milk with them!)  Also, their new Oreo Molten Lava Cake... divine.  We do love Chili's!  Especially the Logan Chili's!

Another new love... Melaleuca has a new shampoo and conditioner, Affina, that I'm totally loving.  I don't often push my husband's business on the blog, but seriously, it's awesome!

Great Customer Service... I called the company that I'd ordered the paper plates from to let them know that I was so disappointed in the quality of the product.  I commended them on their excellent service, their speedy delivery and the other products, but those plates.  A huge disappointment.  The customer service lady thanked me for calling, acknowledged my disappointment and then offered me a credit for my next purchase within a year.  I insisted that I'd not called for a "freebie" but to let them know.  She appreciated my feedback.  I think that most companies do... good and bad.

Jalapeno Jellies:  I think that I posted this photo during the holidays. I got it from friend, Marilyn, while we were having dinner in December.  When she gave me two jars of homemade jalapeno jelly and showed me this photo, I did a happy dance!  (Although, I think that you need double the jelly after taking this beautiful photo!)  Friend, Natalie, also discovered a tasty store bought jalapeno jelly at Costco that is to die for!  I sent Doug to the store to pick up a  jar during the holidays and he came home with a jar of dark green jalapeno jelly that looked more like pickle relish.  Even though it wasn't nearly as pretty, it was pretty tasty.  We've discovered jalapeno jelly on cream cheese and crackers, jalapeno jelly on salmon, jalapeno jelly on whole wheat pancakes (remember, I'm married to GranolaMan).  He's not suggested it yet, but I'm waiting for him to put it on ice cream.  (He already thinks that is why Sweet and Sour Sauce was invented.)  Regardless of Doug's concoctions, it's a must have in the refrigerator these days!

A new recipe:  I wanted to share this very tasty and super simple recipe that I'd made for a treat on Sunday evening.  They are rich and sweet, which I'm sure is why they suggested 1" bite-size pieces.

1 box Yellow Cake Mix
1/2 cup butter
1 egg

First layer:  Mix cake, melted butter and 1 egg.  Pat into the bottom of a 9x13" pan. 

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 eggs

Second layer:  Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar and 3 eggs until smooth and creamy.  Pour and spread on top of first layer.  Bake  at 350' for 40 minutes or until browned.  Cool completely and cut into 1" squares.  Top with fresh strawberries in glaze or caramel sauce or chocolate.  Enjoy!

And last but not least, have I mentioned Pinterest in the past few days?  Okay, I admit.  I'm hooked.  Love that I can find any recipe under the sun, any crafty creation, any beautifully decorated room, any awesome quote in seconds.  I love it.

 And this quote, then...enough said.

weekend update and a sentiment

The Stake dinner was awesome.  The food was fantastic, the program was hysterical and the decorations were quite nice, if Ido say so myself.  The girls helped me with the decorations after a dozen men had set up the tables.  It took us only three hours to set everything and clean up behind ourselves.  The girls love helping anytime, but something on a big scale like this was even more fun for them.  I was pleased to see how well they worked together.  After we were done, we had to go out and celebrate with a little treat.

There was only one "issue" ~ I'd ordered the plates over the phone, while looking at the website.  There was no indication of the size of the plates and the woman on the phone assured me that they were 9" dinner plates.  They were so small and flimsy that I was embarrassed!  Cute, but POOR quality! Huge disappointment there, especially since they were not pricey!  In the future, I'll stick with Hobby Lobby's quality paper goods.  Regardless, everything looked lovely and I've already been informed that I can plan on decorating for next year's dinner, as well.  Love it!  That was quite the compliment in itself!

The rest of the weekend included watching Larry Crowne with Stott and Wendy, time with the kiddos, dessert with the B's after church and dinner and a little Mission Impossible marathon with the kids. 

However, my favorite weekend moments of the weekend didn't even happen directly to us.  The first two took place in our Sacrament Meeting.  Both were father/son moments and did not involve Doug or Quayd. Stott and Wendy's oldest son was ordained as a priest last week and was able to bless the sacrament for his first time, along side Stott.  I was so touched to see them side by side performing this sacred ordinance together.  (Later, Stott told me that he'd leaned over and said, "Watch, we're going to make Sophia cry."  He knows me too well!)  The other moment was when our Bishop's Counselor acknowledged his own son after his returning missionary "report".  These two 6'plus men embraced in the most tender hug.  Again, I cried.  I love men who aren't afraid to show their emotion!

And my other favorite moment was hearing Liza share the details, after teaching her first Relief Society lesson ever.  She told me that the nerves were gone and the lesson went well.  I was thrilled to hear ever word of her report. 

I thought it was interesting, as I reviewed the weekend in my mind, that the happiest moments of the past few days had nothing to do with things  or money.  They were about relationships and service and love.  Isn't that the way it's supposed to be?  Enough said.

There is no such thing in anyone's life as an unimportant day.

check!

Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another.

mastering the master bedroom

 

 Originally posted in January 2011

Today, I'm continuing with thoughts on the Master Bedroom.  Being that there are 24 hours in a day, we spend (or should for good health) at least one third of our lives in the bedroom. Whether you have a luxurious suite or a small master bedroom, whether you have a firey romance or are alone, this space should be your sanctuary. It should be a place where you can escape from every “hat” you wear and be yourself, where you can rest easily and walk away feeling renewed.  First, a few of my thoughts on what the master bedroom should and should not be, and again, these are just my thoughts and opinions. Here's my bedroom this morning.  It's not a large room, but, it's sufficient for us.  Doug made the bed all by himself because I got up an hour earlier.  (Note:  I've taken down my swing and have a rocker instead.)

The master bedroom should not be:

 

• The place you fold your laundry or iron your clothes
• the place that you do your daily workout (or, in some cases, hang your clothes on the unused equipment
• The place your children do their homework or play video games.
• The place where you do business or set up an office.

The master bedroom should be:

• The place where you rest
• The place where you escape
• The place where you can go for peace privacy ~ whether it’s for romance or a serious discussion or to simply discuss without interruption
• A place of peace, love and harmony.

 

Here are a few tips for organizing and conquering the master bedroom: 

• The first tip about a master bedroom (or any bedroom, for that matter) is make your bed! You can have the most lovely room in the world, but if the bed isn’t made, it’s not clean! It only takes a minute.  In our marriage… whoever gets out of bed last makes the bed. We usually get up together in the mornings, so Doug does his side and I do mine together. But, on the mornings that one of us is up earlier, the other makes it. The bed is the largest object in the room. As in any room, if the biggest object is a mess, the room doesn’t look clean. So, simply, make it. You’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something before you even get going every morning!
• Assess your bedroom. Is it peaceful? Is it a catch all? Remove any items in the room that should be in another room. Ironing boards and laundry baskets full of clothing belong in or near the laundry area, not the bedroom. Exercise equipment, especially unused, should be in a family room , spare bedroom or the garage. I remember a friend, who had more clothes hanging on her treadmill than she did in her closet, joking that it had become her closet.  If you're not treading on it, get it out!  Even if you are, seek another place for it.  Dishes do not belong in the bedroom. If you take in a snack, don’t just sit the dishes down when you are done, return them to the kitchen immediately.
• DUST! Bedrooms get forgotten often where dusting is concerned. But, again, this is your sanctuary. If you can write your name on the nightstand, it's time to dust it.  If you aren't dusting the bedroom, ask yourself why?  Is there too much stuff on it?  Electronics are dust magnets and create even more dust, so clear off as much as possible and simplify this task.  This is your haven and you deserve a clean place, just as much as your company does in the living room. Teach your kids the same and encourage them to dust their rooms too, while they still think that dusting is fun.
• What’s under your bed? With Rubbermaid and Sterilyte products so affordable, especially in January (they are a hot selling item on sale at most box stores this month), there’s no reason to not put that empty space (or should be empty space) to work by storing seasonal items under the bed in storage bins. Swimwear and gear under the bed in winter. Skiwear in summer. Sandals in winter, boots in summer.
• What’s on your nightstand? If your nightstand has the last four years of O magazine and People stacked next to it, it’s time to do some serious dejunking. If you can’t bear to part with the magazines, then go through them and pull what it is you think you can’t live without and toss the rest. Most magazines are 80% advertising anyway. You can condense that 18 inch stack into about 1 inch to be filed. If you don’t get around to filing it in a month, toss the stack. Besides, did you know that you can find most everything that is in the magazine highlighted online the next month anyway?
• Get rid of any outdated prescriptions. It’s not a good thing to keep old meds around these days anyway. Even the best of friends can fall into prescription drug addictions these days. Don’t leave things around that would be a temptation to anyone. Get rid of old meds as soon as they are no longer needed.
• Don’t let your nightstand be busier than your bathroom vanity. Cosmetics belong in the bathroom. One bottle of lotion will do, you don’t need every flavor Bath and Body Works offers next to the bed.
• If your nightstand does not have drawers, consider investing in some sort of decorative container to store products that are used by the bed specifically. I purchased this little “secretary” at TJ Maxx for $15 because it had a scratch on the side. It’s one of my favorite things in my house. Inside one drawer is a notepad and pencils for when I have a bright idea in the middle of the night and my earphones. I listen to Conference talks every night before bed and sometimes, I don’t want to keep Doug awake. The other drawer has personal items. Doesn’t that look a ton better than a bowl full of “stuff”.
• Also, one other thought on nightstands… I read a few years ago for C-pap users, a great idea is to store that C-pap machine in a drawer of a nightstand. Have a hole drilled in the back of the drawer and the back of the dresser. Store the C-Pap and it’s supplies inside and open the drawer for use at night. GREAT idea! No ugly machine hovering on the nightstand.

Dressers:

• Put away your clothes! This is a simple task that takes about fifteen seconds extra. If your drawers are clean and organized, if your closet is not overstuffed, hanging things up or putting them away is not a difficult task. Again, get rid of clothes that are not being worn, that are torn, that don’t fit. Toss tired bras, mismatched socks, the swimsuit that you hope to fit in again. (If you lose weight, you deserve a new one!)
• Again, don’t overstuff those drawers!
• Perfumes and lotions have a  shelf life.  If you've not used them in the past year, the scents begin to stale.  Don't just keep them for the pretty bottle's sake unless you plan on running them through the dishwater on a regular basis.
• Also, my frequently stated candle rule applies, especially in the bedroom.  Say it with me, if you've read the blog, you know what's next... "Candles are to be burned, not dusted."
• Separate clothing in individual drawers, as much as possible. Socks, undies, stockings, t-shirts, short sleeve knits, long sleeve knits, sweaters, pants, work-out clothes, pajamas. Hang nicer clothes. My friend Natalie hangs all t-shirts and says that it simplifies her life immensely because the drawers are not full of wrinkly shirts, but neatly hanging all the time. She hangs them right out of the dryer. Love it!

Speaking of bedrooms… I read an article two years ago stating that most burglers go straight to the bedroom nightstand and dresser drawers. If you have valuables, these are not the places to store them. Try storing cash behind a photo frame on the wall, or inside a boot in the closet. Just don’t stash it so well that you forget where you put it!

Books … if you are a reader, a stack of current things you are reading or the next book or two on your list will suffice. Your bedroom should not be the home library.

A bedroom, if it has room, needs a chair of some sort… a place to sit down and put on your nylons or for him to put on his shoes. That chair should not look like a laundry pile. If possible, a lamp nearby would make this part of the sanctuary, mentioned above. It’s also a great thing to have in your room if you have teens. When they come in at night from a date, they have a place to sit and tell you about their evening.

A change receptacle is another need in a bedroom. As you get dressed and empty pockets, having a place to drop the loose change is a great idea. There’s not clutter and it’s also a great way to save money for a fun reward… maybe a getaway!

Have a hamper or laundry basket in your bedroom.  It can be stored in the bottom of the closet, but it's essential for staying on top of clutter.  Use it!  Toss dirty clothes into the basket and take it to the laundry room daily, then bring it back to it's home for the next day. 

If you don't have a large bedroom or a lot of storage space in your room, a storage trunk can be helpful, as well as a great decor.  I picked up the wicker trunk (at the foot of my bed) at a local thrift store for ten dollars.  It stores extra blankets and bedding and also provides an extra place to sit.

Get a jewelry box or some way of organizing your jewelry.  (I think I'll do a whole entry about jewelry later in the month.)  Rather than having all of your jewelry just tangled together or tossed on a dresser, find a way to organize it.  Necklace boards, tackle boxes, even a piece of 1x2 board with pegs, nails or hooks.  But, don't clutter your dresser with piles of jewelry.  And get rid of earrings that are missing a mate, necklaces with broken clasps or take them to the jeweler and have them replaced if it's worth keeping.

There's just a few ideas to help in the master bedroom.  Look through magazines and decorating blogs for great bedroom inspiration.  Imagine yourself settling into a spacious (because it's not cluttered, not because of square footage) room and relaxing in a peaceful, calm spot that was created just for that purpose ~ relaxing!  Imagine yourself not having to trip over a laundry basket, not having to move clothes before you can sit down, not lying on the bed and looking up at cobwebs in the ceiling fan or corners of your room.  Doesn't that sound divine?  It is!  Enough said!

 

Order is the shape upon which beauty depends.

 

 Originally posted in January 2011

Today, I'm continuing with thoughts on the Master Bedroom.  Being that there are 24 hours in a day, we spend (or should for good health) at least one third of our lives in the bedroom. Whether you have a luxurious suite or a small master bedroom, whether you have a firey romance or are alone, this space should be your sanctuary. It should be a place where you can escape from every “hat” you wear and be yourself, where you can rest easily and walk away feeling renewed.  First, a few of my thoughts on what the master bedroom should and should not be, and again, these are just my thoughts and opinions. Here's my bedroom this morning.  It's not a large room, but, it's sufficient for us.  Doug made the bed all by himself because I got up an hour earlier.  (Note:  I've taken down my swing and have a rocker instead.)

The master bedroom should not be:

 

• The place you fold your laundry or iron your clothes
• the place that you do your daily workout (or, in some cases, hang your clothes on the unused equipment
• The place your children do their homework or play video games.
• The place where you do business or set up an office.

The master bedroom should be:

• The place where you rest
• The place where you escape
• The place where you can go for peace privacy ~ whether it’s for romance or a serious discussion or to simply discuss without interruption
• A place of peace, love and harmony.

 

Here are a few tips for organizing and conquering the master bedroom: 

• The first tip about a master bedroom (or any bedroom, for that matter) is make your bed! You can have the most lovely room in the world, but if the bed isn’t made, it’s not clean! It only takes a minute.  In our marriage… whoever gets out of bed last makes the bed. We usually get up together in the mornings, so Doug does his side and I do mine together. But, on the mornings that one of us is up earlier, the other makes it. The bed is the largest object in the room. As in any room, if the biggest object is a mess, the room doesn’t look clean. So, simply, make it. You’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something before you even get going every morning!
• Assess your bedroom. Is it peaceful? Is it a catch all? Remove any items in the room that should be in another room. Ironing boards and laundry baskets full of clothing belong in or near the laundry area, not the bedroom. Exercise equipment, especially unused, should be in a family room , spare bedroom or the garage. I remember a friend, who had more clothes hanging on her treadmill than she did in her closet, joking that it had become her closet.  If you're not treading on it, get it out!  Even if you are, seek another place for it.  Dishes do not belong in the bedroom. If you take in a snack, don’t just sit the dishes down when you are done, return them to the kitchen immediately.
• DUST! Bedrooms get forgotten often where dusting is concerned. But, again, this is your sanctuary. If you can write your name on the nightstand, it's time to dust it.  If you aren't dusting the bedroom, ask yourself why?  Is there too much stuff on it?  Electronics are dust magnets and create even more dust, so clear off as much as possible and simplify this task.  This is your haven and you deserve a clean place, just as much as your company does in the living room. Teach your kids the same and encourage them to dust their rooms too, while they still think that dusting is fun.
• What’s under your bed? With Rubbermaid and Sterilyte products so affordable, especially in January (they are a hot selling item on sale at most box stores this month), there’s no reason to not put that empty space (or should be empty space) to work by storing seasonal items under the bed in storage bins. Swimwear and gear under the bed in winter. Skiwear in summer. Sandals in winter, boots in summer.
• What’s on your nightstand? If your nightstand has the last four years of O magazine and People stacked next to it, it’s time to do some serious dejunking. If you can’t bear to part with the magazines, then go through them and pull what it is you think you can’t live without and toss the rest. Most magazines are 80% advertising anyway. You can condense that 18 inch stack into about 1 inch to be filed. If you don’t get around to filing it in a month, toss the stack. Besides, did you know that you can find most everything that is in the magazine highlighted online the next month anyway?
• Get rid of any outdated prescriptions. It’s not a good thing to keep old meds around these days anyway. Even the best of friends can fall into prescription drug addictions these days. Don’t leave things around that would be a temptation to anyone. Get rid of old meds as soon as they are no longer needed.
• Don’t let your nightstand be busier than your bathroom vanity. Cosmetics belong in the bathroom. One bottle of lotion will do, you don’t need every flavor Bath and Body Works offers next to the bed.
• If your nightstand does not have drawers, consider investing in some sort of decorative container to store products that are used by the bed specifically. I purchased this little “secretary” at TJ Maxx for $15 because it had a scratch on the side. It’s one of my favorite things in my house. Inside one drawer is a notepad and pencils for when I have a bright idea in the middle of the night and my earphones. I listen to Conference talks every night before bed and sometimes, I don’t want to keep Doug awake. The other drawer has personal items. Doesn’t that look a ton better than a bowl full of “stuff”.
• Also, one other thought on nightstands… I read a few years ago for C-pap users, a great idea is to store that C-pap machine in a drawer of a nightstand. Have a hole drilled in the back of the drawer and the back of the dresser. Store the C-Pap and it’s supplies inside and open the drawer for use at night. GREAT idea! No ugly machine hovering on the nightstand.

Dressers:

• Put away your clothes! This is a simple task that takes about fifteen seconds extra. If your drawers are clean and organized, if your closet is not overstuffed, hanging things up or putting them away is not a difficult task. Again, get rid of clothes that are not being worn, that are torn, that don’t fit. Toss tired bras, mismatched socks, the swimsuit that you hope to fit in again. (If you lose weight, you deserve a new one!)
• Again, don’t overstuff those drawers!
• Perfumes and lotions have a  shelf life.  If you've not used them in the past year, the scents begin to stale.  Don't just keep them for the pretty bottle's sake unless you plan on running them through the dishwater on a regular basis.
• Also, my frequently stated candle rule applies, especially in the bedroom.  Say it with me, if you've read the blog, you know what's next... "Candles are to be burned, not dusted."
• Separate clothing in individual drawers, as much as possible. Socks, undies, stockings, t-shirts, short sleeve knits, long sleeve knits, sweaters, pants, work-out clothes, pajamas. Hang nicer clothes. My friend Natalie hangs all t-shirts and says that it simplifies her life immensely because the drawers are not full of wrinkly shirts, but neatly hanging all the time. She hangs them right out of the dryer. Love it!

Speaking of bedrooms… I read an article two years ago stating that most burglers go straight to the bedroom nightstand and dresser drawers. If you have valuables, these are not the places to store them. Try storing cash behind a photo frame on the wall, or inside a boot in the closet. Just don’t stash it so well that you forget where you put it!

Books … if you are a reader, a stack of current things you are reading or the next book or two on your list will suffice. Your bedroom should not be the home library.

A bedroom, if it has room, needs a chair of some sort… a place to sit down and put on your nylons or for him to put on his shoes. That chair should not look like a laundry pile. If possible, a lamp nearby would make this part of the sanctuary, mentioned above. It’s also a great thing to have in your room if you have teens. When they come in at night from a date, they have a place to sit and tell you about their evening.

A change receptacle is another need in a bedroom. As you get dressed and empty pockets, having a place to drop the loose change is a great idea. There’s not clutter and it’s also a great way to save money for a fun reward… maybe a getaway!

Have a hamper or laundry basket in your bedroom.  It can be stored in the bottom of the closet, but it's essential for staying on top of clutter.  Use it!  Toss dirty clothes into the basket and take it to the laundry room daily, then bring it back to it's home for the next day. 

If you don't have a large bedroom or a lot of storage space in your room, a storage trunk can be helpful, as well as a great decor.  I picked up the wicker trunk (at the foot of my bed) at a local thrift store for ten dollars.  It stores extra blankets and bedding and also provides an extra place to sit.

Get a jewelry box or some way of organizing your jewelry.  (I think I'll do a whole entry about jewelry later in the month.)  Rather than having all of your jewelry just tangled together or tossed on a dresser, find a way to organize it.  Necklace boards, tackle boxes, even a piece of 1x2 board with pegs, nails or hooks.  But, don't clutter your dresser with piles of jewelry.  And get rid of earrings that are missing a mate, necklaces with broken clasps or take them to the jeweler and have them replaced if it's worth keeping.

There's just a few ideas to help in the master bedroom.  Look through magazines and decorating blogs for great bedroom inspiration.  Imagine yourself settling into a spacious (because it's not cluttered, not because of square footage) room and relaxing in a peaceful, calm spot that was created just for that purpose ~ relaxing!  Imagine yourself not having to trip over a laundry basket, not having to move clothes before you can sit down, not lying on the bed and looking up at cobwebs in the ceiling fan or corners of your room.  Doesn't that sound divine?  It is!  Enough said!

 

Order is the shape upon which beauty depends.

Making my own blizzard...

UPS delivered, everythings ready!  I'm excited to do the decorating and enjoy the dinner!  Here's a little sneak peak at the project that will be part of my decorating.  I made these cute little snowball candles, which will be part of the centerpieces.  They took me about 30 minutes to make twelve, start to clean-up. 

You will need:

Spread out some paper,  Hold a candle by the wick with one hand.  Spray on the adhesive while spinning the candle slowly with the other hand.  Immediately, dip the candle in a bowl of epsom salt, making sure to cover the entire candle, sprinkling some over the top and sides, as necessary.  Pick up the candle again by the wick, respray it and redip it once more to make sure it's totally covered.  Allow to dry completely. I've made these candles before using Decoupage, but again, why?  The spray adhesive is so much more simple!  The candles were $1.25 a piece at Hobby Lobby, in the value pak.  The spray glue was $6.99.  The Epsom Salt is less than $4 for this 4# bag and I used less than 2 cups.  Very inexpensive!  And here's the finished product:

And finally, the finished product, for the dinner for 240 members of our LDS Stake...

A new Zaylee quote:  Go-Go our little Malti-Poo was sniffing around the "Go Fish" cards that Zaylee was playing with on the floor.  Zaylee, in her own little "RED" personality, said, "Go-Go, NO!  You can't play with these,  they are only for the big kids."  That pretty much sums up what Zaylee thinks she is. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Life is good when you see the good in life.

Oops and a few other emotions

Disappointed:  I was so excited when I woke up this morning to the smell of a most nummy Chicken and Vegetable Stew.  I'd cooked it the night before and added the noodles while cleaning up after breakfast.  Just at about lunchtime, I went to check and see if it was time to turn the crockpot to warm.  I opened the cupboard just above the open crockpot to grab a glass and add a little water.  As I grabbed the glass, this Corelle cup got bumped off the shelf, hit the crockpot and shattered inside the stew.  You can only see a few of the little white shards in the picture but, when I picked up the broken cup, there were a gazillion little shards.  If you've ever broken a piece of Corelle, it doesn't break, it pulverizes into these little slivers of glass like a lightbulb. SADNESS.  I had to toss the entire meal.   I wasn't sure which I was most disappointed about... $15 of ingredients down the drain, the time spent chopping and preparing or missing out on what promised to be one nummy dinner! 

Amused:  I posted this experience on Facebook and one of my funniest friends ever, Helen, commented, "Now you can call it"Cup of Soup". Lol have a good day!"  THAT made me cackle! 

Respectful:  The funeral of Ogden Police Officer Jared Francom, a member of the special narcotics strike force, shot and killed last week, was laid to rest today.  The tributes were moving and tender.  There were officers from across the nation, thousands of flags lining the streets of Ogden, the entire procession was humbling.  I'm grateful for those men and women who put their lives on the line to protect each of us from day to day.

Stunned:  Zaylee absolutely blew me away while I was making snowflake decorations with my Cricut for the upcoming Stake Dinner.  She watched me cut three large flakes and then, as always, said, "I can do it."  I'd been letting here peal the little cut pieces off the mat from the snowflakes.  I said, "No, this is a Grammie toy."  She insisted, "I can do it!"  I was just putting the mat in to cut another one.  She said, "Gwammie, look.  You push this button.  (And she hit load mat.)  Then you push this rectangle.  (She hit Repeat last cut.)  Then you push this big circle.  (She hit cut.)"  When it was finished cutting, she said, "Now, you push this button on the corner." (She hit unload mat.)  I couldn't believe it.  Gracie and Doug witnessed it too.  She is a smart little cookie... more often than not, too smart! 

Tickled:  Earlier in the afternoon, she was having her "Gwampie tweet".  That's the fresh fruit Doug always gives her when he walks in from work.  Today, it was a sliced apple with peanutbutter.  I thought I'd a little zip and gave her a spoonful of Nutella beside the peanutbutter.  "Gwammie!  You knowI wuuuuuv cwockwit!"  I do love this child!  Being her "gwammie" makes me happy!

Grateful:  I spent a lot of time on the phone with Liza while she prepared her first Relief Society lesson.  She's been asked to sub this coming Sunday and is as excited about teaching this lesson as I get about my own.  She's worked hard on it and is already well-prepared. I was touched several times as she shared thoughts that confirm to me what I already know... Liza and Buddy are make this mama proud.  They are actively growing, they want to do good and be their best.  Liza was full of "good news" today and all I could say was "tender mercies" over and over.  I'm so proud of those two!  I actually told her today that I didn't mind them living in Phoenix, because I see how happy they are and the growth that they are experiencing. 

Uncontrollable:  Two words:  Dang Nutella

Anticipating: I've spent much of my time this past few days preparing for the Stake Dinner.  The decorations are coming together quite well.  I created a very simple, cute craft for the tables while Zaylee was napping.  I'll share details on Monday.    Now, I'm just waiting for FedEx to ring my doorbell and I'll have everything together!  It's all gathered and ready to set up.   I'm using a "Snowy" theme, which Doug asked if that was wishful thinking on my part.  Absolutely!

Did I say, Dang Nutella?  Enough said.

The state of your life is nothing more than
a reflection of your state of mind.

silence is golden

It was one of those days.  A certain "theme" seemed to follow me right through my day.

 This morning, while visiting with a friend, they shared something that would have definitely been best left unsaid. It was a bit more than I needed to know about someone else and their personal situation.  I practiced a little lesson taught by a friend...said, "That's really unfortunate."  I said no more.  They got the hint and said no more.

Later in the day, I had an "encounter" with a professional where I knew that silence was best.  When I woke up, I was in the mood to "Give em a piece of my mind".  That's how I was raised.  "Tell 'em exactly what you're thinking and leave nothing unsaid."  I'm here to testify that this is not always the best thing to do.  As a matter of fact, I'm here to tell ya that, in most cases, it's better to just count to three.  Or a hundred and three.  Today, I counted.  And it paid off.

Even later in the day, an unexpected visitor dropped by.  This visitor had quite the tale, sharing a recent "adventure" where they experienced some very negative happenings.  Doug and I looked at each other and could see that this conversation was about to "go south" rapidly.  We cautioned the visitor that there was a child in the room.  The visitor continued, sharing far more details than Doug or I needed or wantedto hear.  First, I sent one of the children out of the room on "an errand"  (You know... the proverbial "Can you run and grab this or that so you don't hear what's about to be said" errand.)  That wasn't a big enough hint for the storyteller.  They continued.  At one point, I blatantly said, "Um, I really don't want to know these details."  We were assured that it was "okay".  Next, Doug interrupted with, "Okay, next!"  (Normally, Doug asks, "How 'bout those Jazz?")  The "storyteller" persisted and insisted that they would finish the story, literally telling the final details on their way out the door.  As we closed the door, Doug and I looked at each other and agreed, "We could have lived without knowing anyof that."  Storyteller went away feeling quite proud, I'm certain, that they'd shared "all the gory details".  Ew.

And then, later tonight, one of the kids came to me and confessed that they'd shared something about a sibling with a friend that they knew they shouldn't have.  "Only part of it, though.  But, I should be consquenced because I shouldn't have said anything at all."   Thankfully, our children are learning that some things are better left unsaid.  No consequence was given.  They'd done that on their own just by confessing to the sibling and me.

Years ago.  YEARS.  I was involved with a group of women.  The leader of this group had an influential husband in our community and she was "privy" to more "juicy gossip" than most of the rest of us.  Once, while we were working together on a project, a prominent person's name came up and she shared a "story" about this person.  It was absolutely the worst piece of gossip about this person or any other that I've ever heard.  EVER.  Almost thirty years later, I see that person and this story still comes into my mind.  The story was so vile that I didn't even share it with Doug ~ not even to say how aggravated I was that I knew the story at the time.  I've never repeated a word of it to a soul. Not that I'm so good or wonderful to not talk, but this story was potentially destructive and damaging. AND IT SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN TOLD.  Enough said about that one.

And so.  My thoughts of this day have been about how important silence really can be.  Here's a few points that I've pondered today:

• I believe that silence is a great example of self-control, strength and wisdom.
• I believe that there are times that talking too much can be destructive to, not only the person being talked about, but to the person doing the talking.
• I believe that unsaying something is literally impossible...like collecting dust in the wind.  Once words have been spoken, no amount of explaining or apologizing will allow those words to be forgotten.  Forgiven, perhaps.  But, rarely, if ever, forgotten.
• What you don't see with your eyes, don't witness with your mouth. And sometimes, even if you witness it with your eyes, it's still best to keep quiet. 
• I believe that sometimes your silence is the only way to silence someone else.  Sometimes silence speaks louder than words.  It’s quite difficult to gossip single-handedly.
• I believe with all my heart that that still, small voice speaks most clearly to us when we are quiet and listen.  The scripture verse, "Be still, and know that I am God" is powerful.


Silence is the true friend that never betrays. 

ten

Ten things I did today:

1. Ordered the papergoods for the Stake Dinner that I'm decorating for this weekend.
2. Went to Sam's Club to pick up more things for the dinner
3. Had lunch at Chili's with Denise
4. LOVED the new Philly Cheese Sandwich on Chili's new menu
5. Had a lovely much-needed two hour experience with my friend/foot zoner
6. Made a tasty dinner
7. Washed our bedding
8. Taught ZJ how to sew a "tube" and turn it inside out
9. Gave a Family Home Evening lesson on using good language
10. Hugged Doug for a very long time in the kitchen

Nine people I talked with today:

1. Carol
2. The CPA’s receptionist
3. Denise
4. Scott ~ the High Counselor over the Stake Dinner
5. The bank
6. Liza
7. My Relief Society President
8. Friend Liz
9. Dad

Eight things I was grateful for today:

1. Liza's gratitude.  She's started baking homemade bread without a mixer.  I sent her a little surprise ~ a bulk size package of dry yeast.  She called when she got home from work and her first words were, "You love us."  I knew that she'd received the yeast.  She's a very gracious daughter.
2. Denise's friendship.  I am blessed.
3. Marilyn, my footzoning friend, who never ceases to amaze me with her wisdom.
4. Gracie's prayer tonight.  "I'm thankful that we are such a happy family."  A mama moment indeed.
5. Doug's hug.  He didn't have to say a word, just held me for about five minutes.  The best medicine in the world.
6. My new camera.  Isn't the midday moon beautiful?
7. Five of my six children were sweet and kind to their mama today.  (I only spoke with five of the six, so that was battin' a hundred!)
8. ZJ is serious about learning to sew.  She's determined and loving every step of her journey.  I'm excited for her.

Seven things I ate today:

1. Chili's new tasty soup.
2. Chili's Philly Steak Sandwich
3. Five.  Exactly five.  Chili's Chips with Avocado Ranch dressing and salsa.
4. A Burrito
5. A very tasty salad
6. A spoon of Nutella.  (Okay.  Two.)
7. Pepsi.  (No amount to be mentioned.)

Six things I said today:

1.  I love you!
2. Thank you.
3. You're amazing.
4. Why do I do this to myself?  (Dang Nutella.)
5. I can't find my keys. (They're having a sleepover at Chili's tonight.)
6. No, I don't want to leave a message.  I'm still waiting for him to return my call from last week's message.  (I was getting a little cranky, can you tell?)

Five things I should have done today that I didn’t:

1. Put away the rest of the laundry  (It will still be there when I wake up.)
2. Called ZJ's piano teacher about changing her lesson day.
3. I should have run back to grab my keys at Chili's, but I'll be there for lunch tomorrow.  They'll still be there too.
4. I forgot to buy spray adhesive while at Hobby Lobby.
5. I didn't order some photo prints for my mother.  Oops.

Four things said to me today:

1. "I'm sorry, he's not available right now.
2. I love you, darlin'.  (I heart my dad.  He always tells me that.)
3. Can I come and have you teach me to be organized?
4. Mom, you know everything.

Three things that shocked me today:

1. There's not a snowflake "anything" to be found in this valley. There's barely any Christmas stuff left anywhere.
2. My sister-in-law's sister's husband was just diagnosed with Stage 2 Colon Cancer.  Arthur is in our prayers!
3. It was C-O-L-D!

Two things that I’ve GOT to do tomorrow:

1. Buy Spray Adhesive
2. Make some "snowballs" 

One thing I want to remember about this day: :

1. A few minutes of the afternoon when I felt like I really understood something/someone.  It's something I've been praying for for quite some time.  Clarity, today, was a gift... a tender mercy.  Enough said.

All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered;
the point is to discover them.

Weekend update:

Friday:  Day Date with Doug.  Lunch at Chili's and Mission Impossible 4.  OH MY!  If you love action, sitting on the edge of your seat and looking at Tom for two hours, this is the movie for you!  LOVED IT!

Friday evening, we went to Carol's for a "last time get-together" with Jamie and Ryan before they move to Seattle.  It will be sad to see them go.  SuperBowl Sunday came up several times because it's what we do together every winter.  We will miss them!


Saturday, we finally got a little snow!  A little!  But it was enough to get out and take some pictures at about 7:30 in the morning.  Beautiful morning.  The temple is a perfect shot any time of year.

This home is one of my favorites in Logan.  It is beautiful any time of year.  As I was driving by, I got a chance to visit with the owner while he was shoveling his and a neighbor's walks.   This quaint little street just feels like it should be somewhere in Europe.  I drive through it often, just because it feels like stepping back in time.  Love it!  I've decided to take pictures every season of this home.

Saturday evening, we got together with Stott and Wendy to watch the Help.  Stott hadn't seen it yet. I struggled with this movie the first time at the theater, but I love it more each time I watch it now.  Beautiful story.  We've come a long way baby!

Sunday, I substituted for Quayd's Sunday School teachers, who were out of town for the weekend.  It was a fun opportunity because the lesson was the beginning of the Book of Mormon.  I love the Book of Mormon!  I love talking about it.  I love teaching about it.  The kids seemed to capture it.   Fun stuff!   Angela taught a "perfect" and much needed lesson in Relief Society, then, Stott and Wendy's oldest son was ordained to be a Priest.  Miki is a crack-up.  She just loves her Grampy!After church, we went to Carol's for dinner and a movie.  Planet of the Apes.  I'd joked that you couldn't buy my ticket and popcorn and pay me $20 to go and see this movie.  But, it really wasn't at all what I thought it would be.  I wouldn't buy it, but it's worth watching.    The kids liked it.  Dinner was great!  But, most of all, time with Carol is always the best!

That's our weekend.  Busy, busy, cold and lots of together time.  That's what matters most.

I also wanted to make a correction.  Mom had shared a recipe in December.  When I made it, I'm certain that she forgot or something.  BUT.  Here's what I created on my own and they were a hit all weekend!

Nut Balls

1 cup Nutella
1 cup crunchy peanut butter
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix in large bowl until creamy and smooth.  Chill.  Roll into balls and then roll in chopped/ground pecans. Enjoy!  (this recipe makes about 80 nut balls.)

Last year, at this time, I was going through every inch of my home, dejunking and doing my winter organizing.  This year, I did it earlier in December, so I'm focusing on some other goals.  I do love January.

This week:  Decorating for a Stake Dinner for 240 people, studying my Relief Society lesson, preparing for an upcoming organizing class I'll be teaching, creating a few little projects, some sewing, some cooking and doing a little catch-up reading.  And somewhere in there, probably a few games, lunches at Chili's and a little Pinterest.  Life is good!

The more you know who you are and what you want,
the less you let things upset you.

think about it...

You were given this life because you were strong enough to live it.  Be thankful for it.

digging in

Previously posted in January 2011

Yesterday, after weeks of non-stop gatherings, I decided that I needed a day to myself.  I left my cellphone in the car and took the other phone off the hook.  Solitude!  I spent the day downstairs,  dejunking in the babes' rooms.  Three giant black trash bags later, they were done and ready to be reassembled, about the time the kids got home from school.  I've decided that doing it alone is better than having their help because they don't mourn the loss of every candy wrapper that you toss! 

When we were all done, we picked Doug up from work (remember his battery was dead yesterday morning) and Gracie got her final part of the birthday celebration ~ dinner at Wingers.  Actually, it wasn't dinner she was so excited about, but the giant piece of asphalt pie.  We discovered last night that Wingers no longer gives asphalt pie to the birthday girl, no it's a scoop of icecream with sprinkles.  So, she got both.  The end of the 12th birthday celebration.  ZJ is already talking about what she wants for hers in March.  Life just never slows down!

Let's talk dejunking...

Today, I'm talking about drawers (and I don't mean your undies.)  I took a walk through my home and counted yesterday.  I have 71 drawers in my home.  That's drawers, not shelves and that's not counting file cabinets, storage container drawers and portable stacking drawers.  I don't know if that's an average number, but it's a lot of places that need to be checked frequently and kept in order.  If I give every one of those drawers five to ten minutes of attention, that's about ten hours just to organize my drawers.  And if you check them often, once they are organized, you can keep up on them in a minute.

 Think outside of the box... or drawer in this case. Pretty much, anything that can go on a shelf can go into a drawer, as long as it fits. If you don't have built-in drawers, invest in a few IRIS carts or plastic stacking drawers.  You'll find that they come in very handy!  My kids each have IRIS carts for their toys and "stuff".  It makes life so much easier for them.  Gracie has a drawer for her belts, one for her rubber stamps and art supplies, one for her Liv Dolls, one for her Polly Pockets, one for her purses...  this way, there is a place for everything.  Labeling them helps even toddlers with clean-up.

Open the drawer and empty it completely.  Determine the purpose of this drawer and only refill it with things that fit that purpose.  Most homes have a junk drawer (or two or six).  But, you don't really need six junk drawers of you designate each drawer with a purpose and stick to that.  Here's a few drawer ideas.

• school supplies - not for your office supplies, but for the kids' items that they tend to look in your supplies to borrow.  If they know that they have a drawer with things for them, they'll be less likely to get into yours.  This drawer is in our entry way, central to everyone and it's used frequently.  I didn't do a thing to clean it up before taking the picture but put the lipbalms in the big tray instead of letting it float. (The lipbalms are there because it's so dang cold in the mornings that they need to put it on just before walking out the door to the bus stop, so, it's a natural place to store it...in the entryway.  Store things at their point of use.)  For the most part, this drawer looks like this all of the time.  Having a few organizers in the drawer is like saying "Put that in here" to every item.
• cleaning supplies - rags, sponges, special cleaning products and tools like a squeegie, magic erasers, etc...
• jewelry - a drawer, separated into sections just like a large jewelry box is easier to get in and out of.
• medicine/first aid ~ We have a first aid kit, but if you have kids getting into it often, it becomes a mess.  So, I have a small drawer in the bathroom that has triple-antibiotic, bandaids, wet-wipes and a few things for the kids to doctor themselves with.  Why have the stress of getting after them for dumping out the first aid kit on the counter and leaving it when they could just open a drawer, grab a band-aid and only leave the wrappers?  ;)  (I believe that most humans are born with a natural trait of not  throwing away bandaid wrappers until they become mothers.  Hence, children and men never do it, so why fight nature?)
• cosmetics/toiletries -if possible, it's awesome to have each person have their own drawer for bathroom items.  Even if it means purchasing a little stackable set of mini-drawers so that they can have their own personal items stored and not all over the counters.  If you have kids sharing a bathroom, this is an answer to much contention.  Storing their personal items like brushes, deodorants, medications... in their own drawer will keep the counters free of clutter and cut the contention in half, as long as they stay out of each others' drawers.
• gift-wrap/party supplies ~ if you have the space, a drawer is great for this purpose.  Scissors, tape, some tissue papers folded neatly, cards or gift-tags, all stored together to make one step wrapping.  This can save you time and energy. 
• winterwear - this is a must have!  Every home needs one.  Store all mittens, gloves, skicaps and scarves only in this drawer.  Anytime you find misplaced items, toss them into the drawer.  It's so much more simple than looking through every drawer trying to figure where the missing glove is.  The kids will even get the idea and help on this one because they are the ones who wear and need them the most.
• sock drawer ~ I remember hearing a mother of six children share this tip.  She has one giant sock drawer in her laundry room.  All socks are folded and stored in that drawer.  For the entire family.  She didn't have to spend her time sorting and separating.  The whole family reached in grabbed their own socks, as needed, and they were always contained.  I thought it was a great idea.  (It's actually where I decided that it it worked for socks, it would work for hats and gloves.)  I don't use this idea, personally, because Doug and I are on a different floor than the laundry room,  but I do have a container for socks that come out of the wash without mates.  Then, on a weekly basis, we have a "sock convention" where we all gather, dump the container, match our socks and everyone puts their own away.

I also have an extra chest of drawers in my laundry room.  The room is small and tight, but this dresser helps immensely!  I keep extra linens in one drawer, winterwear (see below), a drawer of tableclothes and a drawer for Zaylee's things (a change of clothes and a few of her little toys.)  You can pick up an old dresser at a secondhand store or Craigslist for near nothing and put it right to work. 

Use containers to separate sections in each drawer.  If you can't afford to purchase separators or containers, use shoe boxes or cups or bowls.    But, keeping things separated makes them easier to find.  Just think of all the rolls of tape, batteries, paperclips, sticky notes that are replaced when you know that you have some somewhere.  This is my "junk drawer" but it's really not a junk drawer.  It's the "adhesive" drawer... nails, glues, tapes, wires, tacks and a few other odds and ends used when attaching things. Again, having little containers inside a container keeps things organized.  The dollar store has a gazillion choices of inexpensive storage containers.  (Notice the little purple game in the drawer has nothing to do with attaching, but, this drawer, in my gallery, is a great place to hide a toy that kids are arguing over!)

A few other thoughts about drawers:

• Once emptied, do not put items back into the drawers that are broken, torn, have missing pieces or parts, that don't fit and most important, that don't get used.  If it's not been worn or used in the last six months (or season), more than likely, it's not going to be used.  Get rid of it!  Donate it.  Pass it along to someone else who may need it.  If you can't bear tossing it, cut it into pieces and make a cleaning rag out of it.  "As my granola husband says, "You won't owe the earth an apology if you recycle it."
• Don't over stuff drawers.  It pushes the bottoms out of them and ruins the furniture.  If your kids have so many clothes that they can't fit in the drawers, then they shouldn't be trying to make them fit.  If the drawer doesn't close easily, it's got too much stuff in it.  One of my friends/decorating and organizing heroes, Mary Ann, has a very limited wardrobe by choice.  She believes that you don't need fifty pair of shoes and a hundred outfits.  Her wardrobe is simple and classic.  Her walk-in closet, which is the size of ZJ's bedroom, is perfectly clean and in order because she chooses to simplify by not owning so much "stuff".  I  took her advise last year and tossed over forty shirts out of my closet and it's still overflowing!  I've never missed one!  Simplify!  (By the way, going through my clothes and dejunking again this winter is one of my January projects!)
• Seasonal things should not be stored in drawers along with the everyday used items.  Things like swimsuits, ski clothes, Christmas socks... you get the picture.  Store those in containers out of the way.  Why go through them day after day, moving them from one place to another when you won't be needing them for nine more months?

That's just a few of my own thoughts on drawers.  What are yours?  Stay tuned for the next few weeks, every day, I'll be sharing my favorite dejunking/home organizing tips! 

We cannot do everything at once, but we can do something at once.

kids say the darndest things

What's wrong with this picture?  It's January 5th in Cache Valley Utah.  And the windows were open.  Notice the tablescape in the bay window?  With a SNOW SCENE on it?  This is just not right.  It's also not right that I cleaned my front window in short sleeves and stocking feet in January!  It's also not right that there were birds chirping all around me while I did it.  I'm seriously missing my winter!  Please.  Pass.  A.  Blizzard.  ASAP.

I was touched by the emails that I received about yesterday's post.  It's good to hear that others feel the same as I do about their girlfriends, about the miraculous meds to help with "issues" today and with more ideas for "stress-busting".  Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and tender feelings.  It warmed my heart and made my day!

Another cute little Zaylee comment:  Nana sent her home with a baggie of candy, including Bite-size Snickers and York Peppermint Patties.  Liza and I were chatting after dinner on the phone. Zaylee walked in and, since she's learned to Skype, she thinks that you can "see" everything on cellphones just like you can the computer.  After all, you take video on phones, so it makes sense.  Anyway, she said, "Look, Liza, what Nana gave me."  I commented that Yorks were Liza's most favorite candies in the world.  Zaylee said, "You can have them, Liza.  I don't like them,  I only like rectangle candy."

When Kelly dropped Zaylee off, she also brought in a grocery sack with all of the makings for that Chex Mix with the M&Ms and white chocolate drizzled all over it.  I told her that I'd make it before she came to pick Zaylee up.  It was sitting on the counter in the giant Tupperware bowl when Grace and Zaylee came in from a short walk to Nana's just as I was getting dinner on the table.  Zaylee climbed up on the counter to see what we were having for dinner, saw the chex mix and said, "MMMM!  Gwammie!  Candy Salad!!!"  We've now officiallyrenamed that Chex Mix, "Candy Salad".  Too cute!

 On a very sad note, Wednesday evening, six Ogden narcotics officers entered a home with a search warrant when a former Gulf War soldier opened fire, killing one and injuring five officers.  This has shaken our state. It's on everyone's mind.  The whole situation brings to mind a deeper appreciation and gratitude for those officers who serve to protect each and every one of us.  Enough said.

 

 Love More, Worry Less

keep calm and carry on...

Utah has the highest female population on anti-depressants in the nation. It seems that they are the answer for everything from sleeplessness to headaches to OCDs to managing stress.  Many women that I know are prescribed these meds and they swear by them.  They are a blessing in these women's lives.  For them, I'm grateful.  Modern technology blesses us in so many ways.  BUT.

I'm married to granola-man.  That said, we take very few meds in our home.  I had to fight like a bear to get Doug to go to the doctor to take anti-biotics a few weeks ago.  He isn't a fan of doctors or meds.  He believes in vitamins, blender drinks, rest and exercise.  (And I have to admit, he's healthier than anyone I know.) This is one place that we are completely different!

Doug and I were discussing the "need" for meds recently.  One friend's husband says that if his wife ever even thought of going off her meds, he'd, personally, take her in to the doctor to keep her on them.  They work for her, and for them.  Again, a blessing. 

I have a great compassion for those who experience depression and consider myself blessed to not have had that burden in life.  I manage my stress and admit that much of it is self-inflicted because I say the word, "Yes", too often.  I confess that I enjoy living "fire to fire".  My germaphobia and other little OCDs , as I get older, seem to mellow.  I'm grateful to have discovered a few of my own remedies for handling the rollercoaster we call life.  Thankfully, they work for me.

My first remedy is simple.  I go to Chili's with girlfriends.  Often.  It's therapy.  Plain and simple.  Doug acknowledges/appreciates the fact that I have girlfriends who fill my social needs in a way that men just don't.  Doug is my best friend.  And we can discuss anything.  But, men just don't see things the way women do.  So, I'm grateful for girlfriends.  I'm grateful for table 41, the therapy booth at Chili's.  I'm grateful for a husband who's understanding of that.  Chili's is much cheaper than therapist and meds  and it works for me.  I'm having a little "therapy" today, as a matter of fact.  Can't wait.  

Another therapy idea:  Aromatherapy.  I've mentioned how dry our winter has been.  The air is awful.  Skin is dry.  Hair is dry.  Noses are dry.  It's just dry, dry, dry.  I read a little recipe recently that suggested adding a little moisture to the air in your home without running a noisy humidifier. And there's something wonderful about things that smell good.  Plain and simple.  Here's the recipe:

1 orange, sliced thinly
1 Tbsp. whole cloves
5 or 6 cinnamon sticks
1 cup whole fresh cranberries
1 Crock Pot
Water, lots of it.

Simply place all of the ingredients in the crock pot and turn it on. The mix supposedly lasts six weeks.  Mine's three weeks old now.  Add water every day to the crockpot.  It was very pretty the first day.  But, once it cooked, it looked like this...pretty gross.   Keep adding water.  Prop the lid open.  I rest the lid on two chopsticks.  It doesn't smell much anymore, but it's adding moisture to the air.  It's supposedly therapeutic.   Eventually, it will snow.  For me, that's even better therapy.

My best therapy of all is laughing.  Granola-Man helps in this department, immensely.  I heart him.  BIG.

Another great therapy:  A dog.  They are loving and forgiving and entertaining.  Everyone needs a dog.  Enough said about that.

Another one:  Taking a beautiful walk.  No matter what the weather.  One walk around the block produces the same endorphines that... well... you know.  If you feel like you need to cry, to scream, to punch someone, don't do it.  Just go for a walk.

Another thing that works for me is listening to uplifting talks.  LDS General Conference talks inspire me daily.  Love them!  Downloading inspirational books also help.  But, the talks.  Oh, how I love them.  And then pondering them.  And praying about how to apply them to my life.

I've said before, when I can't sleep, when I worry, when I stress, Iclean or I decorate.  Sometimes, it means arranging my furniture in someone else's home in my mind.  Sometimes, it's walking through a fabulous store.  Not buying.  Just looking and filling my bucket...my brain bucket, that is.  Sometimes, it's painting or redoing something I already own.

And then, there's always, chocolate. Remember, "stressed" spelled backwards is "desserts".

 Some of the secret joys of living are not found by rushing from point A to point B, but by inventing some imaginary letters along the way.  Enough said. 

a little of this and a little of that

Another unseasonly warm day in Cache Valley.  I actually went for a walk this morning without even a jacket.  This is just wrong!  We should be having subzero temps with a foot of snow frozen on the ground.  Instead, there were birds chirping in the trees outside my gallery window all afternoon.   And on the other hand, I understand that the winter is hitting hard back east.  The forecast promises nothing for another week.  Please pass winter! 

After getting the babes off to school, with very quickly made homemade breakfast burritos and wrapped them to go, (ya gotta love that crazy first morning back to school after a long winter break!) I went back to bed for a few hours to catch up on some sleep. I rarely do that, but apparently, I needed it because I slept a few hours until Denise texted to see if I was ready to go.  Talk about getting busy quick! Denise and I enjoyed a couple of hours at Chili's, catching up after a few weeks of seeing each other very little.  Her son came from med school in DC the day before Liza left, then her husband had shoulder surgery, plus the holidays.  It mean very little time actually together, so we had plenty to talk about today.  Love it!

Since Denise and I were still playing, Kelly dropped Zaylee off at my mom's for a bit until I got home.  Nana loved that!  Mom brought Zaylee at naptime and we watched "The Help together while Mom did my ironing.  My mother lovesto iron.  And I don't mind that she does at all!  I'd texted to Natalie that Mom was coming over to watch "The Help" and do my ironing.  Nat texted back, "How appropriate."  (hee-hee)

Zaylee awoke up from her nap near the end of the movie.  The scene has a woman on a porch yelling at another woman, mentioning a cold sore on the one woman's face.  Zaylee, still half asleep, came into the family room, watched intently for a few seconds and then, yelled at the TV, "GO HOME NOW AND WASH YOUR FACE!!!"    We all just burst into tears of laughter.  She doesn't miss much!

And one other "must record for posterity" story.  Quayd was asked to teach the Teachers Quorum last Sunday. He spent serious time preparing and when Quayd is prepared, he has no fear. 

Doug attended his lesson for moral support.  After church, they told me that the lesson went really well and he did a great job "until the last few minutes".  WHAT?  Apparently, Quayd was leaning against the wall, with his legs locked, as he was asking the boys a question when BAM!!! , he fainted and fell flat on the ground.  His eye is bruised and his glasses scratched his cheek when he hit.  Hard!  Doug said that he'd noticed that his legs were locked and that is a common cause of fainting.  Quayd's eyes were wide open, but he was completely unconscious for a few seconds.  He lifted Quayd's legs to get the blood circulating again.  Quayd "came to" and asked "What's happening?"  He was clueless.  However, he got up, Doug pulled up a chair for him to sit on, another to prop his legs on and then Quayd completed the last few minutes of the lesson without missing a beat.

That was Doug's version.  Quayd's included that he felt really "tired" and he said to himself, "I have to stay awake."  Then, he said that "it felt like the room was getting dark". He had no clue that he had fallen, that his eyes were wide open because it got so dark, so quickly.  When I asked him if he was nervous about giving the lesson, he said "No, I was fine because I was prepared."  When I asked if fainting scared him, he said, "YES!"   However, he did add, "But, I'm a Corbridge and Corbridge's finish what they start, so I got up and finished the lesson."   Love that boy!

The funny part of the story came when the Young Men's President called to check on how Quayd was doing on Monday.  Aaron commented that he was most surprised at how casual Doug was when it happened,  that he'd just helped Quayd up and Quayd picked up right where he left off.  He said, "I was surprised by Doug's casual reaction, but I figured if he was okay with Quayd continuing, I guess we should be too." (The Bishop, a counselor, the YM President and his counselor were also there.)  What they didn't know was that Doug watched me faint up to thirteen times a day for ten years, before I finally had a hysterectomy at age 28.  Fainting is no biggie in our family.  ;) 

So, those are a few ramblings from the Corbridge home.  I also wanted to share this recipe, a favorite today.   Nat called and asked for it and I thought it had been posted before, but it wasn't.  It's a must try!  One of my blogging goals this year is to be better at posting all recipes, both here and on the cooking blog, so that they are easier to locate later.  Here's the first!  

1 16 oz. bag penne pasta, cooked till almost done

2 15 oz. jars of Alfredo Sauce  (I use Cheesy Ragu flavor)

sliced fresh mushrooms (I use a large box from the produce section)

1 bunch green onions, chopped

1 - 2 cups diced ham  (diced finely)

1 - 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken

cooked, chopped bacon, if desired ( Not bacon bits.)  (And trust me, you desire!)

2-4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Saute mushrooms, green onions in butter, adding the ham, chicken and  bacon.  Pour one jar of Alfredo sauce and cover the bottom of a 9x13 pan.   Add and mix the pasta with the remaining ingredients into the pan.  Pour the second bottle of Alfredo over the mixture and cover in shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 350 for half an hour.  Enjoy!  

 

The happiest people do have the best of everything,
they make the best of everything they have.

Gracie's birthDAY

Gracie woke me up for her birthday.  We sat down together and planned out the day.  She was so excited!

 I made her favorite breakfast, oatmeal and ice cream.  Then, we just chilled most of the day waiting for Doug to come home from his first day back at work, so that the party could begin.  Once Doug was home, we went to Chili's for dinner.  (Imagine that.) 

She was more than excited about the big chocolate shake that Ben, the manager, sent over to our table for her.  Gracie loves chocolate!  Gracie loves Chili's!

After dinner, Gracie chose to go swimming at the High School pool.  I passed on the swimming because that's the coldest pool in America and I stayed home to prepare the birthday treasure hunt and Gracie's "birthday cake".
 


The kids always choose whatever they want for birthday cake.  Liza chooses Pretzel Salad.  Grace chose Phizzookies ~ a chocolate chip cookie topped with ice cream, chocolate syrup and caramel syrup.

 The B's joined Grace and fam for the festivities after Chili's.   As Grace opened each gift, Miki cracked us up with a huge, "whoooooooooooooooo" or "wow!!!!!"   Too funny!

Gracie was gracious and excited all day long!  She's pretty excited about being thirteen, being old enough for her own Facebook page (a modern-day passage?) and to be able to start wearing a little makeup.  Oh my!  I'm so not ready for a teenage girl in the house again!  YIKES!  She teased me all day, "Mom, you're just going to be crying all the time now because I'm growing up too fast!"  She's right!  So right!  I'm thrilled for her, but I would be perfectly fine to keep them all young forever!  Being Gracie's mom is a delight!

We ended the party pretty quick because it was bedtime for Doug and the kids.  Back to school tomorrow and back to"normal" life.   After everyone was in bed, I let Grace stay up long enough to Skype with Liza for a bit.  Liza had wanted to Skype during the party, but, it was so crazy, trying to get everyone fed and ready for bed, that it didn't happen until after the fact.  Bedtime got serious again tonight.

Earlier in the day, I was actually a little teary at the thought of this perfect two weeks coming to an end.  Gracie's birthday falling the day after New Year's Day always let's us extend the celebrating for an extra day, but, it's always a bit sad to me when it comes to an end.  Now, it's time to settle in for the long, cold Cache Valley winter.  Please pass lots of snow! 

A few other rambling thoughts:

• Several friends have commented that they are anxious to send the kids back to school.  I do love my personal time during the days while the kids are in school and Doug is at work.  I have missed that.  (I'd be lying if I denied it!)  BUT.  This past two weeks has been great - no fighting, no cabin fever, just lots and lots of fun together.  Loved every second of it!
• On the other hand, I'm excited for a very long lunch with Denise!
• Mom's coming over to do my ironing and watch the Help together today.  I love that Mom does my ironing.  I love the Help. 
• I still haven't done my real 2011 in review here on the blog.  This weekend went by too quickly!  But, my puzzle is done and back in the box!
• Since I did all of my winter de-junking in early December, the only thing left is my kitchen cupboards and the hall closet.  Does that mean it's time to paint something or what? ;)


Goals are dreams with deadlines.

Happy Birthday Grace! ThirTEEN!

Gracie's thirteen today.  Whodathunkit.  She's our little princess.  She's girlie and frilly and feminine.  She loves playing piano and her new guitar and Nintendo with her siblings.  She sings like an angel with her sweet soft voice.  She's loves pink and purple and anything bright and fun.  She doesn't like getting dirty at all and loves to read.  She quite often is reading multiple books at one time.  She loves Harry Potter and her Young Womens' leaders.  She's determined to make good choices and do what's right.  She loves to shop for clothes and, surprisingly enough, in home decor shops.  She lovesTaipan and Target.  She's quite the strategist in games and loves to play cards or any game.  She's quite happy about finally becoming a teenager, yet she's also still very young for her age and loves to make paper dolls and play with her Liv dolls.  Our world would not be the same without the sunshine that Grace brings to our home!  Here's her birthday interview:

If you could have one super-power, what would it be? Making wishes come true.

What was the last chore you did? Dishes.

What's the last service you did?  Making a blanket for Granddaddy! 

What is your favorite song?  Taylor Swift songs.

What do you like to eat for lunch at school?  Chicken nuggets and fries. 

What's the nicest thing you've done for someone in your family lately?  I helped ZJ by playing with her.

What makes you mad? When Quayd shoots me with his nerf slingshot bow. 

Where would you like to go on vacation?  California

Who's the smartest person in your family?  Dad's good with planets and science but you know everything, so I'm not sure.  (They still believe me when I tell them that Mom's know everything.  How long will that last, I wonder?)

How are you like Mom? I play games and cards like you do.  There's lots of things. We like decorating stores.We both like to cook.   We're both girls. 

What's one word to describe Mom?  Loving.

How are you like Dad?   Me and him read a lot.  We both love to swim.   And I like to drink his blender drinks ~ the good ones.  We're obsessed with history.

What's one word to describe Dad?  Silly.

What's one thing that Mom always says to you?  Make good choices.  I love you. 

What's one thing that you and Dad do together that you'll always remember?  Swimming together.

If you had a million dollars, what's the first thing you'd buy?  First thing I'd buy would be my own Nintendo DSI and some games and a laptop and a camera. 

How do you know that Mom and Dad love you? I just know that you do because of your eyes and you play the things we like to play, you play with us and you feed us good food and you make everything special.  Dad gives us belly-bubbles, reads to us, watches movies with us even when he doesn't want to.  He works hard for us.

What's your favorite cereal? The colorful Dynobites.

What's your favorite TV show?  Survivor!

What's your favorite vegetable? Pickles! 

What's your favorite game?  Hand and Foot.  (I love this child!) 

What's your favorite movie? Harry Potter

What food would you eat every day if you could?   Chicken or Beef 

If you could choose a different name, what would it be?  Jennette

What's the first thing you want to show your friends when they come to your house?  My mom and dad!

What's the scariest thing you've ever done? There was a rockpile and I glided down it on my bike.  I got a bloody knee. 

Is your room messy or clean?  Right now?  I don't know.  Most of the time, it's clean. 

If you could eat at any restaurant for the rest of your life, where would it be?  Chili's!  It's the only choice!

What's your favorite candy bar?  Kitkat!

What's the last thing of yours that Mom put on the fridge door? My honor roll report card and ribbon. 

What's your nickname? Love

What's the best age to be?  Whatever age you are. 

What do you and your siblings fight about? The remotes.

What's under your bed? A book.  I put it down on the floor when I was done reading and went under the bed. 

What's your favorite holiday?  Probably Christmas!

What do you know at age 13?  I know that teenagers change.  I know that mom cries each time we have a birthday.  I know that the gospel is true.  I know that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon.  I know that dinosaurs roamed the earth long ago.  I know that my mom and dad love me a lot.  I know that I am a fun and exciting girl and I make our family brighter.  I know that I will get married in the temple.  I know that I'll be a mom. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GRACIE GIRL!  WE LOVE YOU BIG!!!

Happy New Year!

Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors and let every new year find you a better man.  Benjamin Franklin