Okay, I'm starting to get this French language thing. They have pulled the wool over my eyes long enough! All those words sounding so uppity. When I was growing up, one of my favorite memories was heading to Spokane to shop at the Bon Marche for school clothes. Well, today we went to the "Marche" (Mar-shay) Guess what it means? You're right. Market. So then I asked, "What does Bon mean" thinking it was going to be something spectacular. It means "good."
Good for Pete's sake. I always thought it was something special to go to the "good market?" How creative is that?
In spite of already having my nose out of joint, the local "marche" was fabulous. The parking lot where we parked the other day was turned into a mass of outdoor booths, fresh vegetables and meats like you would not believe. Everything was displayed beautifully. One man in one of the vegetable booths yelled in French the entire time, making it carnival- like. I found one treasure after another but I can't share them because Brandi, Tenille and Marci might be reading this. Can I just say, "Aren't you glad I'm your momma" And we shopped all the shops around the square. Now they are REALLY glad that I'm their momma. I mean REALLY GLAD if you know what I mean!
Sad note, though. This poor little village has had it share of heartache recently. A car hit one school kid and killed him, then a couple of days later a bus hit a couple of other ones. At least one died in that accident, one is paralysed, two still in intensive care. Today was the funeral of one and all the streets around the square from the school to the church which happened to be on the corner of the square was filled with people. All the school children, crying in each others arms. There were so many people waiting for hours for the opportunity to file through the church. The boys entire football team (soccer) stood outside with their jerseys tied around their necks, each holding a rose. It just about broke your heart to watch. It went on for hours. Grief is universal. No one is immune. This will be added to my memories of France.
At the marche, we bought fresh ingredients, once again for ANOTHER outstanding dinner. For other things we needed, we ended up at the grocery store with underground parking (you have to put a euro in the handle to get a grocery cart, like getting a cart at the airport, but when you bring it back, you get back your coin.) Many of the stores don't have bags and you are expected to bring your own or buy one. Janet had given us each our own "French" goodie bag and in it, she enclosed our shopping bag for general shopping and a fancier one for our Paris shopping. I filled them both quickly (Again, girls, don't you love your momma? Even your momma-in-law?) So I had to buy a couple more. I was excited to be bulldozed by a pushy French woman trying to butt in line in front of me (I had been warned) but I stood my ground! I just laughed at her and in my best French, wowed her with my command of the language:
"French Dip, get outta my way!" I just didn't French Roll out of her way. If she would have given me any more hassle, I would have made French toast out of her. I am woman, hear me roar.
Tonight for dinner, we had fresh shrimp, baked salmon, fresh spinach with champagne mushrooms, banquettes, cous-cous, and a pastry for dessert. Oh me, oh my!!!
Tomorrow...dare I say this again.....Paris AGAIN!!! We are driving in, going to a huge flea market (I know, marche, they aren't tricking me by throwing in some English!), then hitting some more highlights, then we are going to see the Eiffel Tower at night. Oh Man!!!! Sigh! I might explode just thinking about it! I might explode if I eat one more croissant.
It is time to go to bed again. My timing is still goofy so last night, although I was exhausted, I twiddled my thumbs for two hours (even with a sleeping pill), and finally took another one. I think my inner clock is saying, "Don't you miss one SECOND of your time here. Stay awake! Practice your great language skills!"
Oh, I forgot that Janet took us to her favorite creperie for lunch. The owner was expecting us and had everything set up when we got there. The crepes were different than any others that I've ever had....all different flours and textures. We got Janet's favorite which had a little ham and cheese inside (not much) and an egg on top. Then we tried a couple of dessert ones. Most of the shops that sell crepes serve them with Nutella, which is big over here. Great with sliced bananas and ice cream.
Okay, I'm waddling off to bed. Well, as soon as I can clear ALL the packages from shopping today off my bed. ARE YOU LISTENING DAUGHTERS??? Love you all!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Paris, Subways and Van Gogh
I have written lengthy entries in our "Ooh-La-La" journal so I won't repeat too much here but I just wanted to post that Paris is....Paris is....Paris is like walking onto a movie set. It was like being at MGM only for real. The streets are so narrow...people drive one hundred miles an hour, motorcycles weave in and out and scare you to death...there are beggars everywhere holding out cups. Speaking French. They are so much smarter than me! We have eaten enough bread and crepes and chocolat croissants to be over our weight limit for the plane. It is hard to be an inconspicuous tourist when you are squealing every other moment and taking pictures of everything and begging passersby to take our picture (I don't because, you know, I am mute.) But the highlights of today were:
-driving to Paris, then taking the subway into Paris- figuring out where to go and when to get off was almost a breeze (well, for me since I have taken no responsibility for ANYTHING!)- Mary is driving. Valene was bumped from navigator before we got out of the rental car parking lot. Karlan is doing a great job and today her Victoria, British Columbia French kicked into first gear and she was anxious to talk to everyone. She's such a bubble. And Valene is always breaking into song. It is not often that I am the quiet, more subdued one in a crowd.
-Notre Dame. It is kind of a nice gig to be able to buy indulgences. To buy a candle and pray for intersession with Saints. Even Joan of Arc. The architecture was beyond believable. The Cathedral was absolutely beautiful. I'm so thankful for our intercessor, Jesus Christ.
-We went to the Musee d'Orsay. Several people told me it was their favorite museum in Paris. It was unreal. Monet after Monet after Monet after Picasso and Pissaro and Cassatt and Gauguin and on and on and on. But the moment....was....in a room filled with Van Gogh. I have this sympathy and passion for Van Gogh. Not necessarily his art because I think "Heck, I could do that!" But through reading so much of his life history and writing many poems about him, I feel such compassion for this man who was so troubled. When I saw his self portrait and other paintings of which I was so familiar, I really did choked up and get misty. There were so many Monets but I feel "tricked" by them...they seem so peaceful and calming but he made life almost unbearable for all those around him. I haven't forgiven him yet. But Van Gogh....Van Gogh brings out the mother in me. I want to wrap this sorry, troubled man in my arms and say, "You can be in our family. Let me feed you. Let me make you laugh." I love this haunted man.
-from there, we hiked three thousand miles and steps, up and up and up, to be in the artist's square. It was fun and artsy and funky and creative. No one got pickpocketed (although we were warned) and it was just like the Paris I had imagined as a child.
- we had a near death...well, not quite...on the subway coming home. It stalled with just a few of us on it...in the tunnel...with unsavory people on board (they weren't us...)...and one graffiti artist who was going to town and I was unsure of what else he was capable of. ("Where's his mother!!!" Does she know what her son is doing???) The lights went out and we were trapped. We almost had to push Valene's head between her legs but luckily she pulled out of it. She wasn't singing any more! We survived. It was an adventure trying to find the parking garage where we parked the car..since we came up from the subway the wrong way. And we thought to find the croissant crumbs we had trailed. But they were gone. We still survived.
-when we got home, Janet, our angel-hostess, had a lovely meal of quiche and salad with fresh toasted hazelnuts on top. Hazelnuts are everywhere and in everything. A fun, different experience.
-Karlan has misplaced her passport and is in tears. We are hoping for a miracle but we can proceed for replacement tomorrow if need be. I hate lost things. She is feeling that her brain power is not 100 % since chemo but I'm telling you...you should have seen her steeplechasing those million stairs today. And me? Me, who hasn't had chemo but is a slug? It was pitiful. I was the definition of "huffing and puffing"...but I conquered them! I didn't burst a lung. I lived to write about it!
Again, chocolats on our pillow. Ahhhh, Janet you are wonderful. Her family is absolutely enchanting. I've fallen in love with them all!
Sweet dreams. Mine are in chocolat..... French chocolat.
-driving to Paris, then taking the subway into Paris- figuring out where to go and when to get off was almost a breeze (well, for me since I have taken no responsibility for ANYTHING!)- Mary is driving. Valene was bumped from navigator before we got out of the rental car parking lot. Karlan is doing a great job and today her Victoria, British Columbia French kicked into first gear and she was anxious to talk to everyone. She's such a bubble. And Valene is always breaking into song. It is not often that I am the quiet, more subdued one in a crowd.
-Notre Dame. It is kind of a nice gig to be able to buy indulgences. To buy a candle and pray for intersession with Saints. Even Joan of Arc. The architecture was beyond believable. The Cathedral was absolutely beautiful. I'm so thankful for our intercessor, Jesus Christ.
-We went to the Musee d'Orsay. Several people told me it was their favorite museum in Paris. It was unreal. Monet after Monet after Monet after Picasso and Pissaro and Cassatt and Gauguin and on and on and on. But the moment....was....in a room filled with Van Gogh. I have this sympathy and passion for Van Gogh. Not necessarily his art because I think "Heck, I could do that!" But through reading so much of his life history and writing many poems about him, I feel such compassion for this man who was so troubled. When I saw his self portrait and other paintings of which I was so familiar, I really did choked up and get misty. There were so many Monets but I feel "tricked" by them...they seem so peaceful and calming but he made life almost unbearable for all those around him. I haven't forgiven him yet. But Van Gogh....Van Gogh brings out the mother in me. I want to wrap this sorry, troubled man in my arms and say, "You can be in our family. Let me feed you. Let me make you laugh." I love this haunted man.
-from there, we hiked three thousand miles and steps, up and up and up, to be in the artist's square. It was fun and artsy and funky and creative. No one got pickpocketed (although we were warned) and it was just like the Paris I had imagined as a child.
- we had a near death...well, not quite...on the subway coming home. It stalled with just a few of us on it...in the tunnel...with unsavory people on board (they weren't us...)...and one graffiti artist who was going to town and I was unsure of what else he was capable of. ("Where's his mother!!!" Does she know what her son is doing???) The lights went out and we were trapped. We almost had to push Valene's head between her legs but luckily she pulled out of it. She wasn't singing any more! We survived. It was an adventure trying to find the parking garage where we parked the car..since we came up from the subway the wrong way. And we thought to find the croissant crumbs we had trailed. But they were gone. We still survived.
-when we got home, Janet, our angel-hostess, had a lovely meal of quiche and salad with fresh toasted hazelnuts on top. Hazelnuts are everywhere and in everything. A fun, different experience.
-Karlan has misplaced her passport and is in tears. We are hoping for a miracle but we can proceed for replacement tomorrow if need be. I hate lost things. She is feeling that her brain power is not 100 % since chemo but I'm telling you...you should have seen her steeplechasing those million stairs today. And me? Me, who hasn't had chemo but is a slug? It was pitiful. I was the definition of "huffing and puffing"...but I conquered them! I didn't burst a lung. I lived to write about it!
Again, chocolats on our pillow. Ahhhh, Janet you are wonderful. Her family is absolutely enchanting. I've fallen in love with them all!
Sweet dreams. Mine are in chocolat..... French chocolat.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
"oui-oui"
My French is improving so much I'm sure most people think I'm native!!! I have sudden recall of other French words I knew but had forgotten I knew. Words like French twist, French...hmmm. already I've forgotten what I used to know. Most of the time I play mute. On the flight over, I didn't have to play. The airline changed our seating assignments so Karlan and Valene sat in one place and I sat in another. They tried to ask people politely if they would like to change with me but they looked at them densely in French and just shrugged their shoulders. I, meanwhile, found my seat partner. He was a nice looking black man. He gestured to the seat next to him and I babbled, "Yes, that is my seat but I'm actually trying to exchange with someone in the back. And you'd better hope she's a cute little thing." He looked at me blankly and I could tell he was scared. After negotiations failed in the back, I lugged my carry- on back up front, squishing bodies and volleying with other passengers in aisles. It was not pretty (one lady's newspaper got interrupted and she started swearing in French....somehow I understand exactly what she was saying....)...and I found my way back to my seat. My seat partner graciously got up and let me climb over to my seat, stuffing my bags on the floor. I gave him a big old grin....and I could see the fear in his eyes. It was so strange....we sat by each others for 12 hours. Heavens, we even slept together. But what happened throughout that time was precious. He never smiled. We didn't speak the same language (I tried all my words on him, "Speakca'de Inglais?" "French fry? French dip?" I could tell he wasn't impressed and just a little nervous. )But....
when I was fuddling with my television, trying to get something in English....he quietly leaned over and did it for me. "Gracias" Oh wait, "Merci." And then when they brought the food, he pushed the buttons for his tray and then leaned over to do mine. I became his project. I couldn't make eye contact with him because you can't look at someone without talking, but he continued the whole trip to take care of me...even lowering my seat. Because he could tell I was an imbecile. He could tell I was a blond. He could tell, even by looking at my spikie up-do that I was a nut case. He saved me. He was a gentle giant.
So, when our trip was over, he stood up to leave but started fiddling with his phone. It was like he was purposefully delaying. I kind of knew he was worried about leaving me alone. He knew I was trouble. He still hadn't smiled in 12 hours. But this was the end. I reached up and touched his arm. I mouthed the words "thank you." He still didn't smile. He bowed to me......with elegance.
the end.
Trouble is still alive. Today we spent the day touring Fontainebleau where Janet and Taylor and family live. They are our hosts. They are magnificent. The weather was crisp, the air misty. Everything was......"oui-oui." Okay, I'm not turning into a French woman, but I can hardly speak for squealing. Tomorrow is Paris. We have already had many adventures, amazing food, and Janet puts chocolats on our pillows. This might be heaven...
when I was fuddling with my television, trying to get something in English....he quietly leaned over and did it for me. "Gracias" Oh wait, "Merci." And then when they brought the food, he pushed the buttons for his tray and then leaned over to do mine. I became his project. I couldn't make eye contact with him because you can't look at someone without talking, but he continued the whole trip to take care of me...even lowering my seat. Because he could tell I was an imbecile. He could tell I was a blond. He could tell, even by looking at my spikie up-do that I was a nut case. He saved me. He was a gentle giant.
So, when our trip was over, he stood up to leave but started fiddling with his phone. It was like he was purposefully delaying. I kind of knew he was worried about leaving me alone. He knew I was trouble. He still hadn't smiled in 12 hours. But this was the end. I reached up and touched his arm. I mouthed the words "thank you." He still didn't smile. He bowed to me......with elegance.
the end.
Trouble is still alive. Today we spent the day touring Fontainebleau where Janet and Taylor and family live. They are our hosts. They are magnificent. The weather was crisp, the air misty. Everything was......"oui-oui." Okay, I'm not turning into a French woman, but I can hardly speak for squealing. Tomorrow is Paris. We have already had many adventures, amazing food, and Janet puts chocolats on our pillows. This might be heaven...
Monday, November 26, 2007
We're Off....
like a herd of turtles. That is exactly what my mother (and dad) said EVERY time we all got in the car to leave, like for a family vacation. I've heard it all my life. I say it to my kids. It is a great image.
My bags are packed and ready to go. ("Leaving On a Jet Plane." John Denver. Concert with Steve B. from Idaho Falls. After the concert he bought me the ....what? Cassette? Eight Track? Album? I can't even remember. It was "our" song.....random memory....) I need to vacuum and mop my way out the door. Don't all mothers do that? Kind of like wearing clean underwear in case you're in an accident. Be prepared!!!! Cathy, in case anything should happen to me, you know the drill. Torch the laundry room and my closet. No Relief Society ladies in there to clean and shake their heads.
I called my son Ryan last night with the "final words." I usually give them to Brandi but she's let me know she's sick of them. You know, the "if I don't come back" speech. I gave David his...he can't date for a year, gave him a few suggestions of who he could marry, has to hang a giant portrait of me over the fireplace and include me in family prayer. To Ryan I had to give the instructions on how to access my obituary file and my "concluding remarks." It is pretty funny. I even have listed the food I want to be served at the funeral. Great appetizers, great salads, lots of funeral potatoes and chocolate desserts. I want everyone to eat really well. Arlene, you're in charge of that. No green jello with corn or carrots in it. No one in my family will eat it! Don't worry about the cost...David will foot the bill. He LOVES to pay for my parties!
At least I'm not as bad as Wanda Jackson, a lovely lady that died a few years ago. She even had instructions for Helga, who was speaking, of what to wear. Then my dear friend Sharen Smith, put me in charge of black umbrellas. She wanted fifty, rain or shine, at the graveside. She always liked that in the movies. We did it. I miss her....
Okay, enough maudlin stuff. I'm going, I'm really going! This is the stuff dreams are made of! I hope to check in during the week. Hope to have lots of adventures and funny fiasco's to report. Already I'm missing my husband. And today is my day to watch kiddos and I don't know if I can survive without them! But wait! The dishwasher needs to be unloaded. The vacuum is waiting. Gotta go.
Oh, I did want to say yesterday's Sacrament meeting was wonderful. It was our annual "choose your favorite hymn and why?" meeting. One song that I haven't really thought about was the Hie to Kolob song. (I can't remember the exact name. And my hymn book that is sitting on my piano is in Spanish...don't ask me why....so I can't look it up.) The man that shared it said it was his favorite because, especially the last verse, was the essence of the gospel. It was beautiful and worthy of everyone having a lookie to remind them of these beautiful words.
My bags are packed and ready to go. ("Leaving On a Jet Plane." John Denver. Concert with Steve B. from Idaho Falls. After the concert he bought me the ....what? Cassette? Eight Track? Album? I can't even remember. It was "our" song.....random memory....) I need to vacuum and mop my way out the door. Don't all mothers do that? Kind of like wearing clean underwear in case you're in an accident. Be prepared!!!! Cathy, in case anything should happen to me, you know the drill. Torch the laundry room and my closet. No Relief Society ladies in there to clean and shake their heads.
I called my son Ryan last night with the "final words." I usually give them to Brandi but she's let me know she's sick of them. You know, the "if I don't come back" speech. I gave David his...he can't date for a year, gave him a few suggestions of who he could marry, has to hang a giant portrait of me over the fireplace and include me in family prayer. To Ryan I had to give the instructions on how to access my obituary file and my "concluding remarks." It is pretty funny. I even have listed the food I want to be served at the funeral. Great appetizers, great salads, lots of funeral potatoes and chocolate desserts. I want everyone to eat really well. Arlene, you're in charge of that. No green jello with corn or carrots in it. No one in my family will eat it! Don't worry about the cost...David will foot the bill. He LOVES to pay for my parties!
At least I'm not as bad as Wanda Jackson, a lovely lady that died a few years ago. She even had instructions for Helga, who was speaking, of what to wear. Then my dear friend Sharen Smith, put me in charge of black umbrellas. She wanted fifty, rain or shine, at the graveside. She always liked that in the movies. We did it. I miss her....
Okay, enough maudlin stuff. I'm going, I'm really going! This is the stuff dreams are made of! I hope to check in during the week. Hope to have lots of adventures and funny fiasco's to report. Already I'm missing my husband. And today is my day to watch kiddos and I don't know if I can survive without them! But wait! The dishwasher needs to be unloaded. The vacuum is waiting. Gotta go.
Oh, I did want to say yesterday's Sacrament meeting was wonderful. It was our annual "choose your favorite hymn and why?" meeting. One song that I haven't really thought about was the Hie to Kolob song. (I can't remember the exact name. And my hymn book that is sitting on my piano is in Spanish...don't ask me why....so I can't look it up.) The man that shared it said it was his favorite because, especially the last verse, was the essence of the gospel. It was beautiful and worthy of everyone having a lookie to remind them of these beautiful words.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Oooh-La-La
I finally got to deliver the "Oooh-La-La" bags tonight. Little "let's get excited for a party" bags. Hot pink and black, of course. I made the bag stickers...everyone got a pink boa....
Enchanted
Okay, I must admit I love Cindrella. I love fairy tales. I collect variations of Cinderella books (along with the Three Little Pigs and The Princess and the Pea).....and I found my prince and I want everyone else to as well. "Ever After" is one of my all-time favorite movies ("not just that they lived happily ever after, but they LIVED!")
Sooo....."Enchanted".....oh go! Go, go, go!!! Leave your prince charming at home, be with your best GF or daughters or grandchildren, or in my case, my nieces.....buy yourself a big bag of pop corn.....and get ready for fantasy land! You'll not be sorry. Oh, go, go, go!!!
(and check out the ballroom singer...Jon McLaughlin...one of my favorite singers.....)
Sooo....."Enchanted".....oh go! Go, go, go!!! Leave your prince charming at home, be with your best GF or daughters or grandchildren, or in my case, my nieces.....buy yourself a big bag of pop corn.....and get ready for fantasy land! You'll not be sorry. Oh, go, go, go!!!
(and check out the ballroom singer...Jon McLaughlin...one of my favorite singers.....)
Extended Family
Fun little treat already this morning. Travis showed up with Rylee and Boston in pj’s carrying a warm loaf of Monkey Bread from Great Harvest! That is great because we had a load of company come last night. Three of my nieces from Idaho, one with a boyfriend, one with a husband, and an exchange student from Italy. They all wanted to come and see David’s folks while they are here for the holidays. These kids were used to all the grandma and grandpa time they wanted when G & G lived in Idaho. They never imagined life without them. So they were starving for their grandparents. We were playing games last night and Mallorie, who is the youngest grandchild (and who just turned 16) said, "This is what I’ve been wanting. Just playing games all night with Grandpa!" That is a fun tradition. Of course, she was winning so maybe that’s why is was so fun!
I only have one niece and one nephew on my side of the family and I adore them both and their spouses. But on David’s side, I have 20. I love them all but am really, really close to eleven of them. I love being their aunt and I love that they all feel comfortable calling and saying, "Can we come?" Cami was bummed that we drained the pool. This is the first year we've done that. We’ve had 3 of the kids live with us a year or more. Ashley (who is now married) lived with us when she attended Massage Therapy school. No, we didn’t get many massages, kind of like David and I didn’t have a will until a few years ago (he doesn’t do wills.....all that law school and he doesn’t "do" wills....) Dee, a nephew lived with us for a year to establish residency to go to school here, then changed his mind and went back to Idaho State. But he and Travis had a ball. Dee was drop dead gorgeous but kind of shy. They went out one night, and were sitting at a restaurant with a good-looking waitress. Travis gave Dee a really ridiculous pickup line and dared him to use it. Dee did....and got the biggest crusty and the comment, "That’s the lamest pickup I’ve ever heard...and besides, I’m engaged!" Slam dunk....
One of Dee’s brothers, Buff, was involved in bull riding like Dee. They were practicing riding and filming themselves when Buff got knocked out by the bull. It reared back, and on the film you could see Buff’s head make contact with the bull, then the horn got him on the way down, and another head butt. All of this was on film, lasting only about 4 seconds. Four seconds to ruin a life. Buff was in the ICU in Idaho Falls for a couple of weeks, then flow to SL. Finally he was put in Health South, a rehab place close to where we live. He was there about 7 months, in a coma for several. He is permanently physically and mentally disabled. It’s been a hard thing. We just love this boy and if anything, his sense of humor has increased. He keeps us laughing and can tell the best stories...that we’re never sure if they are true or not! While he was in rehab, the Idaho family would come down and stay, taking turns so someone was almost always with him. It was hard to see him, at first, curled up in the fetal position, in an adult crib and in diapers. I learned that you can be "awake" or "asleep" in a coma....I think there are about 7 stages. Many miracles happened and we’ve all learned a lot. One time he was choking and they had to do an emergency tracheotomy. The tube didn’t go into his esophagus so his whole body blew up like a balloon! He got RSV and was taken up to the University Hospital. We couldn’t even recognize him, he really looked like the Goodyear Blimp! The oxygen has to make its way out of the body, through his skin and you could hear him "crackling" all the time....like "pop rocks" crackling. But he survived the RSV, which was so frightening, and back to learning how to eat, walk, talk. Before he was to that stage yet, I have to admit, we had a little fun with him. He knocked his two front teeth out and Travis, ever the prankster, put two chicklets in the holes to look like buck teeth and took a picture! We all laugh about the funny stuff now but it was sure scarey. It is hard because now he has to work menial jobs and is only slightly mentally impaired...so he knows everything he is missing. But his whole hospital stay here brought an increase of family time with his family. Sometimes we would have 27 of us staying at the house! (We also had another kid living with us...he showed up on our doorstep needing a place to stay for a couple of weeks and ended up living with us for two years! We knew his parents as young couples at BYU)
Well, I never really thought about where this journal entry was going but I’m just aware this morning how much I love my nieces and nephews. With Cadi’s baby shower last week and Cousin Casey living with us (and his birthday was yesterday!) and now part of the Idaho bunch here, my heart is full. I guess I’d bettered go get in the thick of things and get this party rolling. I think most of us are going to see "Enchanted" this afternoon. I have a BIG to-do list because I leave for France on Monday! MONDAY!!! But who’s excited?????????
I only have one niece and one nephew on my side of the family and I adore them both and their spouses. But on David’s side, I have 20. I love them all but am really, really close to eleven of them. I love being their aunt and I love that they all feel comfortable calling and saying, "Can we come?" Cami was bummed that we drained the pool. This is the first year we've done that. We’ve had 3 of the kids live with us a year or more. Ashley (who is now married) lived with us when she attended Massage Therapy school. No, we didn’t get many massages, kind of like David and I didn’t have a will until a few years ago (he doesn’t do wills.....all that law school and he doesn’t "do" wills....) Dee, a nephew lived with us for a year to establish residency to go to school here, then changed his mind and went back to Idaho State. But he and Travis had a ball. Dee was drop dead gorgeous but kind of shy. They went out one night, and were sitting at a restaurant with a good-looking waitress. Travis gave Dee a really ridiculous pickup line and dared him to use it. Dee did....and got the biggest crusty and the comment, "That’s the lamest pickup I’ve ever heard...and besides, I’m engaged!" Slam dunk....
One of Dee’s brothers, Buff, was involved in bull riding like Dee. They were practicing riding and filming themselves when Buff got knocked out by the bull. It reared back, and on the film you could see Buff’s head make contact with the bull, then the horn got him on the way down, and another head butt. All of this was on film, lasting only about 4 seconds. Four seconds to ruin a life. Buff was in the ICU in Idaho Falls for a couple of weeks, then flow to SL. Finally he was put in Health South, a rehab place close to where we live. He was there about 7 months, in a coma for several. He is permanently physically and mentally disabled. It’s been a hard thing. We just love this boy and if anything, his sense of humor has increased. He keeps us laughing and can tell the best stories...that we’re never sure if they are true or not! While he was in rehab, the Idaho family would come down and stay, taking turns so someone was almost always with him. It was hard to see him, at first, curled up in the fetal position, in an adult crib and in diapers. I learned that you can be "awake" or "asleep" in a coma....I think there are about 7 stages. Many miracles happened and we’ve all learned a lot. One time he was choking and they had to do an emergency tracheotomy. The tube didn’t go into his esophagus so his whole body blew up like a balloon! He got RSV and was taken up to the University Hospital. We couldn’t even recognize him, he really looked like the Goodyear Blimp! The oxygen has to make its way out of the body, through his skin and you could hear him "crackling" all the time....like "pop rocks" crackling. But he survived the RSV, which was so frightening, and back to learning how to eat, walk, talk. Before he was to that stage yet, I have to admit, we had a little fun with him. He knocked his two front teeth out and Travis, ever the prankster, put two chicklets in the holes to look like buck teeth and took a picture! We all laugh about the funny stuff now but it was sure scarey. It is hard because now he has to work menial jobs and is only slightly mentally impaired...so he knows everything he is missing. But his whole hospital stay here brought an increase of family time with his family. Sometimes we would have 27 of us staying at the house! (We also had another kid living with us...he showed up on our doorstep needing a place to stay for a couple of weeks and ended up living with us for two years! We knew his parents as young couples at BYU)
Well, I never really thought about where this journal entry was going but I’m just aware this morning how much I love my nieces and nephews. With Cadi’s baby shower last week and Cousin Casey living with us (and his birthday was yesterday!) and now part of the Idaho bunch here, my heart is full. I guess I’d bettered go get in the thick of things and get this party rolling. I think most of us are going to see "Enchanted" this afternoon. I have a BIG to-do list because I leave for France on Monday! MONDAY!!! But who’s excited?????????
Thursday, November 22, 2007
The Damage has been Done. Whew!!!
(From The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe- C.S. Lewis)
"At first Edmund tried to remember that it is rude to speak with one's mouth full, but soon he forgot about this and thought only of trying to shovel down as much Turkish Delight as he could, and the more he ate the more he wanted to eat...."
Well, that about sums up the Thanksgiving experience! I've figured out why I love the day after Thanksgiving with leftovers more than the dinner itself. Because the dinner is gluttony and when eating leftovers, you are satisfied with a little bite of everything.
But besides being miserably stuffed with delectable food, the day was beautiful, wonderful, noisy, successful. A couple hours before dinner, Brandi called and asked if we could seat more people. Of course we can. Their friend, Rob, who lost his wife last January during childbirth (leaving him with a brand new baby and 4 other children) had plans that fell through and were going to be alone. We are so glad that they came to us. Our grand total this year was 10 adults and 12 kids. We were without Ryan and Marci and kiddos and David's folks went to Layton to have dinner with David's sister. The first 5 minutes we had 3 of the kiddo's crying and we all just looked at each other with fear on our faces! But we all started laughing and then chaos really broke out which is what happens when the cousins get together. Tenille rounded the kids up downstairs and they made Indian feather headbands and chose their Indian names. Parker of course chose "Indian Football Player." They also made Indian vests and we strung rigatoni noodles that I spent all night painting for Indian necklaces. It was fun. Here's a little picture show, which doesn't even begin to tell the day's story:
Can I just show you a picture of Heather's Yummy Sweet Potatoes. I might be dreaming of them tonight!
Two Indian princesses....
An Indian princess and her mom....Thanks, Tenillie!!! Rylee was the pro at crafts since she did them all in kindergarten this month. She made necklaces for all the little kids. She's a sweetie!
More Indians....
"At first Edmund tried to remember that it is rude to speak with one's mouth full, but soon he forgot about this and thought only of trying to shovel down as much Turkish Delight as he could, and the more he ate the more he wanted to eat...."
Well, that about sums up the Thanksgiving experience! I've figured out why I love the day after Thanksgiving with leftovers more than the dinner itself. Because the dinner is gluttony and when eating leftovers, you are satisfied with a little bite of everything.
But besides being miserably stuffed with delectable food, the day was beautiful, wonderful, noisy, successful. A couple hours before dinner, Brandi called and asked if we could seat more people. Of course we can. Their friend, Rob, who lost his wife last January during childbirth (leaving him with a brand new baby and 4 other children) had plans that fell through and were going to be alone. We are so glad that they came to us. Our grand total this year was 10 adults and 12 kids. We were without Ryan and Marci and kiddos and David's folks went to Layton to have dinner with David's sister. The first 5 minutes we had 3 of the kiddo's crying and we all just looked at each other with fear on our faces! But we all started laughing and then chaos really broke out which is what happens when the cousins get together. Tenille rounded the kids up downstairs and they made Indian feather headbands and chose their Indian names. Parker of course chose "Indian Football Player." They also made Indian vests and we strung rigatoni noodles that I spent all night painting for Indian necklaces. It was fun. Here's a little picture show, which doesn't even begin to tell the day's story:
Can I just show you a picture of Heather's Yummy Sweet Potatoes. I might be dreaming of them tonight!
Two Indian princesses....
An Indian princess and her mom....Thanks, Tenillie!!! Rylee was the pro at crafts since she did them all in kindergarten this month. She made necklaces for all the little kids. She's a sweetie!
More Indians....
Brandi and Ryan and kiddos
Ryan and Parker. Parker is my oldest grandchild. Getting him to take pictures is like pulling teeth. We made him do it anyway. I adore this boy!
Ben and Susie joined us! We love them...
I didn't get pictures of all the rest of us. Too busy cooking and eating, I guess. But I need to backtrack for just a minute. Hallee Babe turned 4 this week. Here is how she looks at 4. Much different than last week at 3.
Ryan and Parker. Parker is my oldest grandchild. Getting him to take pictures is like pulling teeth. We made him do it anyway. I adore this boy!Ben and Susie joined us! We love them...
I didn't get pictures of all the rest of us. Too busy cooking and eating, I guess. But I need to backtrack for just a minute. Hallee Babe turned 4 this week. Here is how she looks at 4. Much different than last week at 3.
For her party theme, she wanted a flower party. Here is the picture of her clever birthday cake. The sunflower seeds are chocolate chips. How cute! At the party they planted plants, made visor hats with their names on them and cute flowers, played all sorts of games like "Flower, Flower, Weed" (think Duck, Duck, Goose). I got to paint and glitter flowers on faces. It was a fun little party. I love you Hallee Babe!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
The Menu
Appetizers-
sausage and cream cheese stuffed mushrooms
artichoke dip with crackers- Brandi’s making...yum!
Chips and dip
drink- white grape juice and Sprite. It’s my favorite dressy drink. David’s dad was shopping with me and he picked up white grape with raspberry as well so I might try that. Sounds good.
Turkey- our neighbors surprised us by picking one up for us from the Norbest plant down south.
Ham- I just found out last year that Travis doesn’t like turkey. I didn’t know that.
Mashed potatoes and gravy- Tenille is making the mashed potatoes...what a doll!
Dressing- I make it with lots of celery, onion, butter, chicken stock, sage, both white bread and cornbread crumbs. I love dressing. I LOVE dressing. I get "stuffed" on dressing.
Lion House Rolls- homemade, of course
Pickles, olives to put your fingers in, celery stuffed with pimento cheese or blue cheese or American cheese spread.
Green salad- Brandi’s bringing it so I don’t know what kind
Candied sweet potatoes- Heather’s recipe This could be called dessert!
Jelled cranberries on the side
Brandi’s making pumpkin pie squares and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for the kids. I’ll make 7 -layer bars. Tenille is bringing a dessert as well, I think. Ice cream. If I’m in the mood in the morning, I’m going to try to make an eggnog pie. I saw the recipe online.
I’ve been running around tonight trying to find crafts supplies for the kiddo’s to make Indian vests, Indian face paint and I’m staining rigatoni noodles colors to make Indian bead necklaces. Rylee has made them in kindergarten so she’ll be the pro. I’m thinking this year I’ll feed the kiddo’s first, then put on a movie for them to watch while the grown-ups eat, then we’ll do kiddo crafts afterwards.
I’m thankful, thankful, thankful! I’ve been missing my parents terribly today and they are missing us too. But they’ll be here for Christmas. I’m thankful too that I was able to sit down today and get the RS Christmas program down on paper. I’m actually having 6 women share their stories (that correlate with the song, "Mary Did You Know?" which is our theme.) I’m feeling like Heavenly Father helped me out on this one, as He always does. Did I mention I’m thankful?
Happy Thanksgiving to anyone who reads this. Cousin Deanna, I’m thinking of you! You’ve always been the best! Hope life is calmer this year. Hope Susie is getting stronger. And to all family and friends, Happy Thanksgiving! Pretty Patty Petty, I wish you and Tom and Kyle could come here for dinner...since I know you hate to cook. Knowing Tom, he’ll probably have ribs cooking in the slow cooker! That’s a southern boy for you! To Janet, in France, I got new jammies today which means I’m READY to come! Please get the mass transit and government strike over before Monday. Please? Tell your kiddo’s I bought two big bags of Tootsie rolls at the store today just for them. And I’ve got your Lion House rolls and Wassail mixes ready to bring. (to Cousin Casey...if you are reading this, you know what I would say....unbelievable! Happy B-day Friday!!!) To new online friends, thank you for the lovely things you’ve written on your personal blogs and comments on mine. I have chosen a few favorite blogs that I always go to...and have been entertained and uplifted and edified, and realize that no one is alone in facing challenges and feeling the love of the Lord in their lives. Thanks for being a part of my life as well.
sausage and cream cheese stuffed mushrooms
artichoke dip with crackers- Brandi’s making...yum!
Chips and dip
drink- white grape juice and Sprite. It’s my favorite dressy drink. David’s dad was shopping with me and he picked up white grape with raspberry as well so I might try that. Sounds good.
Turkey- our neighbors surprised us by picking one up for us from the Norbest plant down south.
Ham- I just found out last year that Travis doesn’t like turkey. I didn’t know that.
Mashed potatoes and gravy- Tenille is making the mashed potatoes...what a doll!
Dressing- I make it with lots of celery, onion, butter, chicken stock, sage, both white bread and cornbread crumbs. I love dressing. I LOVE dressing. I get "stuffed" on dressing.
Lion House Rolls- homemade, of course
Pickles, olives to put your fingers in, celery stuffed with pimento cheese or blue cheese or American cheese spread.
Green salad- Brandi’s bringing it so I don’t know what kind
Candied sweet potatoes- Heather’s recipe This could be called dessert!
Jelled cranberries on the side
Brandi’s making pumpkin pie squares and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for the kids. I’ll make 7 -layer bars. Tenille is bringing a dessert as well, I think. Ice cream. If I’m in the mood in the morning, I’m going to try to make an eggnog pie. I saw the recipe online.
I’ve been running around tonight trying to find crafts supplies for the kiddo’s to make Indian vests, Indian face paint and I’m staining rigatoni noodles colors to make Indian bead necklaces. Rylee has made them in kindergarten so she’ll be the pro. I’m thinking this year I’ll feed the kiddo’s first, then put on a movie for them to watch while the grown-ups eat, then we’ll do kiddo crafts afterwards.
I’m thankful, thankful, thankful! I’ve been missing my parents terribly today and they are missing us too. But they’ll be here for Christmas. I’m thankful too that I was able to sit down today and get the RS Christmas program down on paper. I’m actually having 6 women share their stories (that correlate with the song, "Mary Did You Know?" which is our theme.) I’m feeling like Heavenly Father helped me out on this one, as He always does. Did I mention I’m thankful?
Happy Thanksgiving to anyone who reads this. Cousin Deanna, I’m thinking of you! You’ve always been the best! Hope life is calmer this year. Hope Susie is getting stronger. And to all family and friends, Happy Thanksgiving! Pretty Patty Petty, I wish you and Tom and Kyle could come here for dinner...since I know you hate to cook. Knowing Tom, he’ll probably have ribs cooking in the slow cooker! That’s a southern boy for you! To Janet, in France, I got new jammies today which means I’m READY to come! Please get the mass transit and government strike over before Monday. Please? Tell your kiddo’s I bought two big bags of Tootsie rolls at the store today just for them. And I’ve got your Lion House rolls and Wassail mixes ready to bring. (to Cousin Casey...if you are reading this, you know what I would say....unbelievable! Happy B-day Friday!!!) To new online friends, thank you for the lovely things you’ve written on your personal blogs and comments on mine. I have chosen a few favorite blogs that I always go to...and have been entertained and uplifted and edified, and realize that no one is alone in facing challenges and feeling the love of the Lord in their lives. Thanks for being a part of my life as well.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Thankful Heart-Tuesday
This has been a good exercise for me. All day I have been thinking of what particular blessing in my life I wanted to express. Today was Hallee Babe’s birthday. Today I saw her for the first time as a four-year old. During her little party, Heidi came to the party and later Josh. I had 6 of my 11 grandchildren there at one time and just looking at their sweet faces, my insides just burst with love. And so you might say I’m thankful for my grandchildren and you’d be right. But the thoughts I had equally as strongly today was I am so proud of their parents. I have three of my five children married and I take such great joy in their decision to have eternal families. Anyone can get married, but marrying right is so important. I love the spouses that they chose. I love that they chose the Lord, chose to be married in the right place, chose to dedicate their lives to each other and God. I love that these little kiddo’s of mine that I adore, each and every one, live in homes filled with love and righteous desires. I love that they are being taught how to pray, to feel the Spirit in their lives. I’m so thankful that even as little children, they are being taught to look around to see where they can make a difference. That they experience service in their lives. I’m thankful for my two boys that aren’t married- for the joy they are to us. And I pray the same for them...that they’ll want eternal families. That God will be a part of the process in choosing a mate and that eternal covenants will bind them together. I want for them the joy that I have had. I say of myself, that I’m so happy that when I was young and foolish, I made the wisest decision of my life. I am blessed. I am thankful. Thankful for covenants that bind us together. So, in gratitude to my Heavenly Father, even though I have a mile-long list of to-do’s tomorrow (and FINALLY I get to start cooking!!!), I need to go to the temple. I need to put action into my words of gratitude. What did my mother always say to me? Actions speak louder than words?
And here’s my thanksgiving recipe to share. I grew up with sweet potatoes or yams, straight from the can, topped with brown sugar and marshmallows. And I loved them. But through the years, I’ve ventured into sweet potato heaven. I love them with an orange juice glaze, baked and deep fried. But probably my favorite recipe comes from a Ward cookbook, that Heather Dahlquist White submitted called Aunt Jan’s Sweet Potatoes. Well, I don’t have an Aunt Jan so that didn’t feel just right. To me, they are Heather’s yummy potatoes. When you read the ingredients, you’ll understand why. Oh my!!!
Heather’s Sweet Potatoes
3 c. cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
½ tsp salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup butter, melted
½ cup milk
½ tsp vanilla
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/3 cup flour
Combine potatoes, sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, salt, eggs, ½ cup butter, milk and vanilla. Place in buttered 2-quart casserole pan. Combine remaining butter, brown sugar, nuts and flour. Spoon over potatoes. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
And here’s my thanksgiving recipe to share. I grew up with sweet potatoes or yams, straight from the can, topped with brown sugar and marshmallows. And I loved them. But through the years, I’ve ventured into sweet potato heaven. I love them with an orange juice glaze, baked and deep fried. But probably my favorite recipe comes from a Ward cookbook, that Heather Dahlquist White submitted called Aunt Jan’s Sweet Potatoes. Well, I don’t have an Aunt Jan so that didn’t feel just right. To me, they are Heather’s yummy potatoes. When you read the ingredients, you’ll understand why. Oh my!!!
Heather’s Sweet Potatoes
3 c. cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
½ tsp salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup butter, melted
½ cup milk
½ tsp vanilla
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/3 cup flour
Combine potatoes, sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, salt, eggs, ½ cup butter, milk and vanilla. Place in buttered 2-quart casserole pan. Combine remaining butter, brown sugar, nuts and flour. Spoon over potatoes. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Thankful Heart- Monday
Thought for these few days before Thanksgiving, I’d share some family stories about things I am thankful for and a recipe that we enjoy during the holidays.
The first story I’d like to share is about my daughter. Two years ago at just about this time, my son-in-law, Ryan, was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the size of a tennis ball. The surgery was very expensive, he was unable to work for over 5 months, the holidays were approaching and Brandi was 7 months pregnant with their 4th child. People were so kind...friends and neighbors constantly were watching out for them. Their cute sister-in-law (that would be you, Suzanne!) showed up each week just to clean their bathroom. Can you imagine what a lift that was? So many sweet services. Their Ward and friends and extended family literally carried them.
But a few years before this, Ryan lost a business that he had started. It was a heartwrenching and stressful time for all. They had many financial needs and one day an envelope with money in it showed up anonymously. They had many bills to be paid. But immediately, as they received it, Brandi said to Ryan that she felt very impressed to take half of that money and share it with someone else who the Spirit prompted needed help as well. She really didn’t know much about this person or her life, just that the Spirit had whispered she needed help. The following month as Brandi visited with this sister, she confided in Brandi that a "miracle" had happened in their lives. They had experienced financial losses as well, and struggled to make ends meet. She thought they had been successful...until one more bill showed up. They had no idea how they could pay this bill and were heartsick. Until an anonymous envelope came into their lives as well....with exactly the amount of money that they needed. Brandi just smiled.
Indeed a miracle had happened. To me that miracle was my sweet kids, who even in time of their own need, took time to share their gift with another. How thankful I am for children, not just Brandi but all my boys as well (and their spouses) that continually "teach" me lessons of the Spirit. How thankful I am that my children are also surrounded by angels in friend's or family clothing, to minister to them in their times of need.
One of my favorite salads to make for the holidays is a recipe from one of my Girl’s Night Out friends, Diane Naylor.
Fresh Orange Salad
7 oranges
2 bananas
2 cans mandarin oranges
1 20-oz can pineapple tidbits
1 small jar maraschino cherries
1 T. lemon juice
3/4 cup sugar
cornstarch to thicken
1 tsp. almond extract
In Pyrex measuring cup, mix juice of 1 orange, juice from pineapple tidbits, lemon juice, sugar and cornstarch. Cook and stir in microwave until thickened. Add almond extract; cool. In a colander, mix pineapple, drained fresh oranges and halved maraschino cherries. Transfer to a large bowl. Mix in cooled sauce. Just before serving, mix in cut-up bananas. Beautiful served in glass bowl.
The first story I’d like to share is about my daughter. Two years ago at just about this time, my son-in-law, Ryan, was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the size of a tennis ball. The surgery was very expensive, he was unable to work for over 5 months, the holidays were approaching and Brandi was 7 months pregnant with their 4th child. People were so kind...friends and neighbors constantly were watching out for them. Their cute sister-in-law (that would be you, Suzanne!) showed up each week just to clean their bathroom. Can you imagine what a lift that was? So many sweet services. Their Ward and friends and extended family literally carried them.
But a few years before this, Ryan lost a business that he had started. It was a heartwrenching and stressful time for all. They had many financial needs and one day an envelope with money in it showed up anonymously. They had many bills to be paid. But immediately, as they received it, Brandi said to Ryan that she felt very impressed to take half of that money and share it with someone else who the Spirit prompted needed help as well. She really didn’t know much about this person or her life, just that the Spirit had whispered she needed help. The following month as Brandi visited with this sister, she confided in Brandi that a "miracle" had happened in their lives. They had experienced financial losses as well, and struggled to make ends meet. She thought they had been successful...until one more bill showed up. They had no idea how they could pay this bill and were heartsick. Until an anonymous envelope came into their lives as well....with exactly the amount of money that they needed. Brandi just smiled.
Indeed a miracle had happened. To me that miracle was my sweet kids, who even in time of their own need, took time to share their gift with another. How thankful I am for children, not just Brandi but all my boys as well (and their spouses) that continually "teach" me lessons of the Spirit. How thankful I am that my children are also surrounded by angels in friend's or family clothing, to minister to them in their times of need.
One of my favorite salads to make for the holidays is a recipe from one of my Girl’s Night Out friends, Diane Naylor.
Fresh Orange Salad
7 oranges
2 bananas
2 cans mandarin oranges
1 20-oz can pineapple tidbits
1 small jar maraschino cherries
1 T. lemon juice
3/4 cup sugar
cornstarch to thicken
1 tsp. almond extract
In Pyrex measuring cup, mix juice of 1 orange, juice from pineapple tidbits, lemon juice, sugar and cornstarch. Cook and stir in microwave until thickened. Add almond extract; cool. In a colander, mix pineapple, drained fresh oranges and halved maraschino cherries. Transfer to a large bowl. Mix in cooled sauce. Just before serving, mix in cut-up bananas. Beautiful served in glass bowl.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Aslan
From C.S. Lewis:
"Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion.
"I'm dying of thirst," said Jill.
"Then drink," said the Lion.
"May I--could I--would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.
The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realised that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience. The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic.
"Will you promise not to--do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill.
"I made no promise," said the Lion.
Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer.
"Do you eat girls?" she said.
"I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it.
"I daren't come and drink," said Jill.
"Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion.
"Oh dear?" said Jill, coming another step nearer. "I suppose I must go and look for another stream then."
"There is no other stream," said the Lion.
Tonight our Stake had a special Thanksgiving concert. Denny Crockett and his wife, Teri put together a fabulous concert with special guest. Michael Dowdle, a wonderful LDS guitarist, played several numbers- both medleys, hymns and original songs. Denny used to be in our Stake Presidency....he was recently released as a mission president in Fort Worth, Tx. I wrote about their talks in the Sat. evening session of Stake Conference. Denny was the musical director/arranger of the Donny and Marie Show and had a production company. Teri has sung for Disney and many commercials. They also had another special guest, Daniel Beck, that has sung on 2007 Especially For Youth (singing "You Raise Me Up!!!") that was SOOO fabulous! Kristin Crocket (who performed with one of Marci's sisters in Showtime or something at Ricks) also did a couple of numbers. The whole evening testified of Christ and was the perfect lead-in to a week of Thanksgiving and another month of celebrating Christmas. Their music testified of the living water, which comes from only one stream.
Next Sunday is a favorite tradition in our Ward. It is a whole sacrament meeting of hymns. Anyone is invited to the pulpit to chose a hymn of choice, oftentimes sharing why that song is a favorite, and we all sing one verse of the song. Our Ward does this the Sunday following Thanksgiving each year and it is a favorite.
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5: 19-20
"Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion.
"I'm dying of thirst," said Jill.
"Then drink," said the Lion.
"May I--could I--would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.
The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realised that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience. The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic.
"Will you promise not to--do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill.
"I made no promise," said the Lion.
Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer.
"Do you eat girls?" she said.
"I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it.
"I daren't come and drink," said Jill.
"Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion.
"Oh dear?" said Jill, coming another step nearer. "I suppose I must go and look for another stream then."
"There is no other stream," said the Lion.
Tonight our Stake had a special Thanksgiving concert. Denny Crockett and his wife, Teri put together a fabulous concert with special guest. Michael Dowdle, a wonderful LDS guitarist, played several numbers- both medleys, hymns and original songs. Denny used to be in our Stake Presidency....he was recently released as a mission president in Fort Worth, Tx. I wrote about their talks in the Sat. evening session of Stake Conference. Denny was the musical director/arranger of the Donny and Marie Show and had a production company. Teri has sung for Disney and many commercials. They also had another special guest, Daniel Beck, that has sung on 2007 Especially For Youth (singing "You Raise Me Up!!!") that was SOOO fabulous! Kristin Crocket (who performed with one of Marci's sisters in Showtime or something at Ricks) also did a couple of numbers. The whole evening testified of Christ and was the perfect lead-in to a week of Thanksgiving and another month of celebrating Christmas. Their music testified of the living water, which comes from only one stream.
Next Sunday is a favorite tradition in our Ward. It is a whole sacrament meeting of hymns. Anyone is invited to the pulpit to chose a hymn of choice, oftentimes sharing why that song is a favorite, and we all sing one verse of the song. Our Ward does this the Sunday following Thanksgiving each year and it is a favorite.
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5: 19-20
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Saturday Thoughts
This was "party till you drop" and I'm about dropping. Last night was High School Musical. Imagine the Delta Center (okay, Energy Solutions...what a name, what a company!) filled with thousands of screaming little girls. It was crazy fun and Gracie, Rylee and Parker- and Brandi and I loved it. We rode Trax uptown...they thought that was SO MUCH FUN for about 5 minutes. Too bad it is about a 25 minute ride! We had seats in the suite....a great view.
Today I drove to Layton to help with my niece Cadi's shower. It takes almost an hour there, and I needed to leave early since Gracie was having her birthday party at our house at 2:15. But I was glad I could help with the food, and be there with my sister-in-law, Laraine, whom I adore, and Cadi (her only daughter) and two of her daughter-in-laws that I love, Marianne and Jenny (Jenny is the one I dreamed about before she and Jared got married! Top Ten List That Made Me Happy This Week! Cadi got a ton of awesome things. She is due with a little girl in January. The name will be Stevie Nichole. I love it!
Here are some highlights from Gracie's Cowgirl Party....it was beautiful outside and so that is where we had it! Easy!!!
Next came Barrel Racing with stick horses in teams. No one got bucked off
Next came roasting some marshmallows around the fire pit for s'mores. Rylee roasted me the best marshmallow I've ever had. Good job!
I just wanted to throw in this picture. You might think it is Brandi and Hallee. Actually, this little girl's name is Taylor and she is one of Gracie's friends. Before Hallee was born, Brandi said to Taylor's mother, "I just can't take my eyes off of your little girl because she looks so much like what I imagined my children to look like." Taylor's mom reminded Brandi of this when Hallee was born. They look like they are sisters. Here's Taylor.
Here's Hallee and Taylor.
Okay, I'm loving how Brandi is trying hard to simplify. Notice Gracie's great cake for the party. It is a S'more cake. It worked!
All the cowgirls then got to go on a horseback ride with a really good-looking cowboy. Here is Rylee with a high-centered cowgirl hat!
Here's a whole bunch of cute, squealing girls. Everyone had fun, everyone was delightful, everyone was as good as can be. Can't say that about all the cowboys I've known!
"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all." W. Faulkner
Today I drove to Layton to help with my niece Cadi's shower. It takes almost an hour there, and I needed to leave early since Gracie was having her birthday party at our house at 2:15. But I was glad I could help with the food, and be there with my sister-in-law, Laraine, whom I adore, and Cadi (her only daughter) and two of her daughter-in-laws that I love, Marianne and Jenny (Jenny is the one I dreamed about before she and Jared got married! Top Ten List That Made Me Happy This Week! Cadi got a ton of awesome things. She is due with a little girl in January. The name will be Stevie Nichole. I love it!Here are some highlights from Gracie's Cowgirl Party....it was beautiful outside and so that is where we had it! Easy!!!
First they made a horsie craft....little horse ornaments that they painted with glitter paint. They then strung beads to make it an ornament.
Next came Barrel Racing with stick horses in teams. No one got bucked off
Next came roasting some marshmallows around the fire pit for s'mores. Rylee roasted me the best marshmallow I've ever had. Good job!
I just wanted to throw in this picture. You might think it is Brandi and Hallee. Actually, this little girl's name is Taylor and she is one of Gracie's friends. Before Hallee was born, Brandi said to Taylor's mother, "I just can't take my eyes off of your little girl because she looks so much like what I imagined my children to look like." Taylor's mom reminded Brandi of this when Hallee was born. They look like they are sisters. Here's Taylor.
Here's Hallee and Taylor.Okay, I'm loving how Brandi is trying hard to simplify. Notice Gracie's great cake for the party. It is a S'more cake. It worked!
All the cowgirls then got to go on a horseback ride with a really good-looking cowboy. Here is Rylee with a high-centered cowgirl hat!
Here's a whole bunch of cute, squealing girls. Everyone had fun, everyone was delightful, everyone was as good as can be. Can't say that about all the cowboys I've known!"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all." W. Faulkner
Friday, November 16, 2007
Gracie's Special Day
"A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious, and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music, and anything else he could think of to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary. Finally, John was fed up, and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot, and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hands, grabbed the bird, and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior." John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, when the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"
David's folks got in last night and have already taken off to Idaho to attend a funeral of a friend. But David's dad blitzed me this morning in Phase Ten so I thought that was a bad sign. He was just getting back at me for beating him last night. But regardless of the loss, today has been a great day. I had lots of errands, than I picked up Gracie and a friend and took them to Justice For Girls so Gracie could pick out an outfit for her birthday. I've never seen her at age 6 before and she is more beautiful than ever! She picked out a beautiful pink and brown dressy dress for Church and we got a headband and also two cute hair dealies for when she wears pigtails. After our shopping spree, we went to an ice creamery and got delicious treats. Gracie chose Cotton Candy, Heidi chose Birthday Cake and I had Eggnog. Delish! Just a few hours until we go out for our date tonight. I'll pick up Rylee and we'll meet for tacos before getting on Trax to go downtown. Gracie loves tacos. High School Musical on Ice, here we come! GRACIE, I LOVE YOU!!!
A cute Gracie story: So, while I was driving the girls to "Justice" today, we were talking about different kinds of birthday parties. Gracie said, "I went to one that was like another country. I can't remember what country it was but it is the county where they use chapsticks." Thankfully I had Heidi to translate. She leaned over to me and whispered, "I think she means chopsticks!"
Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence. ~Erma Bombeck
Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. ~William Arthur Ward
David's folks got in last night and have already taken off to Idaho to attend a funeral of a friend. But David's dad blitzed me this morning in Phase Ten so I thought that was a bad sign. He was just getting back at me for beating him last night. But regardless of the loss, today has been a great day. I had lots of errands, than I picked up Gracie and a friend and took them to Justice For Girls so Gracie could pick out an outfit for her birthday. I've never seen her at age 6 before and she is more beautiful than ever! She picked out a beautiful pink and brown dressy dress for Church and we got a headband and also two cute hair dealies for when she wears pigtails. After our shopping spree, we went to an ice creamery and got delicious treats. Gracie chose Cotton Candy, Heidi chose Birthday Cake and I had Eggnog. Delish! Just a few hours until we go out for our date tonight. I'll pick up Rylee and we'll meet for tacos before getting on Trax to go downtown. Gracie loves tacos. High School Musical on Ice, here we come! GRACIE, I LOVE YOU!!!
A cute Gracie story: So, while I was driving the girls to "Justice" today, we were talking about different kinds of birthday parties. Gracie said, "I went to one that was like another country. I can't remember what country it was but it is the county where they use chapsticks." Thankfully I had Heidi to translate. She leaned over to me and whispered, "I think she means chopsticks!"
Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence. ~Erma Bombeck
Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. ~William Arthur Ward
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Thursday Thanksgiving Thoughts
The pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts…nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. H.W. Westermayer
I'm giving thanks for friends that show up or call and drop what they are doing to deliver my Twelve Days of birthday. Today was Day 8 Before her birthday. I bought a Smith’s Gift Card. It was attached to a sign that listed 10 things she could buy at Smiths and then 10 things she can’t buy at Smiths. I think it might be funnier if you were sleep deprived or on NyQuil. I would print them all here but then I’m afraid you would be laughing so hard, you wouldn’t be able to finish reading my important thoughts recorded here. Did I tell you I think I’m coming down with something (again!) So I took a NyQuil. Maybe that’s why I think I’m so funny....
Brandi called me yesterday and said she got an invitation to a boutique out in Daybreak. We decided that we could go when Hallee was in preschool so we would just have Addison. Then Brandi remembered she had her neighbor’s daughter as well who is off-track but she’s no trouble. That meant I had to get my body out of bed this morning. We are on our way there and then Brandi re-reads the invitation and realizes it doesn’t opened for ANOTHER HALF AN HOUR! I COULD HAVE SLEPT 30 MINUTES longer. Boy, life is rough, huh? Brandi said when we were leaving, that boutiques are part of her favorite memories growing up. She and I used to hit them all on the weekends. That was our pleasure. Fun memories.
Been thinking about Thanksgivings Past. Here are a few memories:
My worst was when Brandi was a baby. We had gone to Idaho for Thanksgiving and were going back to Provo at night and ended up in a terrible blizzard around Malad. There was zero visability and you didn’t know if you were on the road or not. You couldn’t stop because a car would surely hit you from behind. Trucks were still hauling through the highway....our best bet was to try and drive so close behind one so you could vaguely see its taillights. I remember looking at my sweet baby and praying and praying and praying and thinking maybe this was the end.....
It wasn’t. Thank goodness.
I think I’ve share this story before:
The first Thanksgiving I went to at David’s home as a newly wed, his mom put cranberries in the salad instead of serving it jelled in a dish on the side and she made twice-baked potatoes instead of mashed and served 5 different desserts instead of just pumpkin and pecan pie and I thought, "What’s the matter with this woman?!!! Doesn’t she know how to make Thanksgiving dinner?" I later learned those 5 desserts were each of her children’s favorites. (She actually has 6 kids so I wonder which one she didn’t particularly care for.....) She DID make homemade rolls, which we never had since my mother is allergic to flour (just the raw stuff, not the cooked flour) and I’m sure I ate enough to look unladylike. And she always made homemade cinnamon rolls with maple icing. They were her specialty. I adore my MIL. I adore my FIL too but he never made homemade rolls. He just tries to cheat me in games. They’re coming today from St. George so I’d bettered get prepared....
For several years, we had Thanksgiving dinner with David’s sister, Laraine and her family and with my cousin, Zella and the Dahlquist family. Laraine’s husband, Richard and Charles D. served together in Switzerland on missions. We always had a wonderful time until the end. Charles would make us all get up and do the Twelve Days of Christmas song with actions. My husband does NOT like to act silly. The funniest part for everyone was watching the look on David’s face. I think Charles is about the only one I know that could ever make David do stupid things! We loved it! I bet Charles has probably taught all the young men of the Church to do this crazy song or at least Princess Pat. (He serves as the Ymen’s General President...they probably didn’t know about the silly things he does....)
My favorite part of Thanksgiving, besides getting to cook and cook, is to have my first turkey sandwich. I LOVE leftovers. I love leftovers better than the main meal. In our last home, I used a built-in workbench in the garage to store leftovers. One year I went out to get the turkey but he had disappeared. Our neighbors, The Sumners, down the hill had a dalmatian dog, that took our bird and drug it all the way home. You could follow the trail in the snow.
David’s folks had a summer ranch by Gray’s Lake, Idaho (Henry)...David’s brother and wife lived there for a couple of years, year round, and one year when we were there, their giant St. Bernard got the cooling bird from the screened-in porch. Jan was out in the knee-high snow chasing that dog with a broom. I think we got the leftovers that year so it all evens out...
Many times when we were young-marrieds, we’d go to my parents in Washington. We had some friends there who were like family. Mae was like a grandmother to me when I was little. And she was quite well to-do (and we weren’t) and when we would have Thanksgiving at her home, I would marvel at her beautiful home and dining room with china and crystal. David and I went there with my parents to visit during the holidays, and Mae was so happy because she had made some "hot buttered rum" and ladled us all up some. She insisted that we try it. I reminded her that we didn’t drink alcohol but she was a little looped already and kept insisting that it was the holidays and that it didn't have much alcohol and that it was a traditional drink and kept forcing the drink on me. Finally, because I was young and immature, I burst out bawling and ran to the bathroom and hid for awhile. Later, on the way home, I asked David what he did while I was gone. He said, "What could I do? I had to be polite and drink yours and mine!" We laugh about that now!
Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. W T Purkiser
I'm giving thanks for friends that show up or call and drop what they are doing to deliver my Twelve Days of birthday. Today was Day 8 Before her birthday. I bought a Smith’s Gift Card. It was attached to a sign that listed 10 things she could buy at Smiths and then 10 things she can’t buy at Smiths. I think it might be funnier if you were sleep deprived or on NyQuil. I would print them all here but then I’m afraid you would be laughing so hard, you wouldn’t be able to finish reading my important thoughts recorded here. Did I tell you I think I’m coming down with something (again!) So I took a NyQuil. Maybe that’s why I think I’m so funny....
Brandi called me yesterday and said she got an invitation to a boutique out in Daybreak. We decided that we could go when Hallee was in preschool so we would just have Addison. Then Brandi remembered she had her neighbor’s daughter as well who is off-track but she’s no trouble. That meant I had to get my body out of bed this morning. We are on our way there and then Brandi re-reads the invitation and realizes it doesn’t opened for ANOTHER HALF AN HOUR! I COULD HAVE SLEPT 30 MINUTES longer. Boy, life is rough, huh? Brandi said when we were leaving, that boutiques are part of her favorite memories growing up. She and I used to hit them all on the weekends. That was our pleasure. Fun memories.
Been thinking about Thanksgivings Past. Here are a few memories:
My worst was when Brandi was a baby. We had gone to Idaho for Thanksgiving and were going back to Provo at night and ended up in a terrible blizzard around Malad. There was zero visability and you didn’t know if you were on the road or not. You couldn’t stop because a car would surely hit you from behind. Trucks were still hauling through the highway....our best bet was to try and drive so close behind one so you could vaguely see its taillights. I remember looking at my sweet baby and praying and praying and praying and thinking maybe this was the end.....
It wasn’t. Thank goodness.
I think I’ve share this story before:
The first Thanksgiving I went to at David’s home as a newly wed, his mom put cranberries in the salad instead of serving it jelled in a dish on the side and she made twice-baked potatoes instead of mashed and served 5 different desserts instead of just pumpkin and pecan pie and I thought, "What’s the matter with this woman?!!! Doesn’t she know how to make Thanksgiving dinner?" I later learned those 5 desserts were each of her children’s favorites. (She actually has 6 kids so I wonder which one she didn’t particularly care for.....) She DID make homemade rolls, which we never had since my mother is allergic to flour (just the raw stuff, not the cooked flour) and I’m sure I ate enough to look unladylike. And she always made homemade cinnamon rolls with maple icing. They were her specialty. I adore my MIL. I adore my FIL too but he never made homemade rolls. He just tries to cheat me in games. They’re coming today from St. George so I’d bettered get prepared....
For several years, we had Thanksgiving dinner with David’s sister, Laraine and her family and with my cousin, Zella and the Dahlquist family. Laraine’s husband, Richard and Charles D. served together in Switzerland on missions. We always had a wonderful time until the end. Charles would make us all get up and do the Twelve Days of Christmas song with actions. My husband does NOT like to act silly. The funniest part for everyone was watching the look on David’s face. I think Charles is about the only one I know that could ever make David do stupid things! We loved it! I bet Charles has probably taught all the young men of the Church to do this crazy song or at least Princess Pat. (He serves as the Ymen’s General President...they probably didn’t know about the silly things he does....)
My favorite part of Thanksgiving, besides getting to cook and cook, is to have my first turkey sandwich. I LOVE leftovers. I love leftovers better than the main meal. In our last home, I used a built-in workbench in the garage to store leftovers. One year I went out to get the turkey but he had disappeared. Our neighbors, The Sumners, down the hill had a dalmatian dog, that took our bird and drug it all the way home. You could follow the trail in the snow.
David’s folks had a summer ranch by Gray’s Lake, Idaho (Henry)...David’s brother and wife lived there for a couple of years, year round, and one year when we were there, their giant St. Bernard got the cooling bird from the screened-in porch. Jan was out in the knee-high snow chasing that dog with a broom. I think we got the leftovers that year so it all evens out...
Many times when we were young-marrieds, we’d go to my parents in Washington. We had some friends there who were like family. Mae was like a grandmother to me when I was little. And she was quite well to-do (and we weren’t) and when we would have Thanksgiving at her home, I would marvel at her beautiful home and dining room with china and crystal. David and I went there with my parents to visit during the holidays, and Mae was so happy because she had made some "hot buttered rum" and ladled us all up some. She insisted that we try it. I reminded her that we didn’t drink alcohol but she was a little looped already and kept insisting that it was the holidays and that it didn't have much alcohol and that it was a traditional drink and kept forcing the drink on me. Finally, because I was young and immature, I burst out bawling and ran to the bathroom and hid for awhile. Later, on the way home, I asked David what he did while I was gone. He said, "What could I do? I had to be polite and drink yours and mine!" We laugh about that now!
Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. W T Purkiser
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Creative Cooking/Holidays
Whew! What a day! I had Creative Cooking (focus group) at my house today. It is SUCH a job getting everything ready (my house...thank goodness for Jan!!!) But then! Wow! Okay, enough exclamation points but really! So fun!!! (Enough...)
The menu-
Arlene's wonderful Butternut Squash soup
Autumn Tossed Salad
½ c. lemon juice
½ cup sugar
2 tsp. finely chopped onion
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
½ tsp. salt
2/3 c. vegetable oil
1 T. poppy seeds
1 bunch romaine, torn
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup unsalted cashews
1 medium apple, chopped
1 med pear, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
In a blender, combine the lemon juice, sugar, onion, mustard and salt. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Stir in poppy seeds. Transfer to a small pitcher or bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until chilled.
In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine, cheese, cashews, apple, pear and cranberries. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. 10 servings
I found this cute squirrel as a template from Martha Stewart.com It was actually published in the Nov. 2006 edition of her magazine. I ended up making a variation since the original log was a real pain. But I utilized the squirrel in little favors- I also made little tubes with scrap booking paper, filled them with candy, wrapped and tied the whole thing with cellophane and ribbons for a favor for each place setting.
Pumpkin Bites- the recipe is below. Makes a million. Just a perfect little dessert
I bought these at Chocolate Covered Wagon but you can make them. Two marshmallows on a sucker stick, dipped in chocolate. Add candy eyes. A candy corn makes a cute nose rather than the pecan. Add a paper leaf or a silk one.
Geneil also gave us each a "Blessing Mix" she puts by each plate at Thanksgiving. The card attached says:
Debbie Stowell made these cute pilgrim's hats out of a chocolate pinwheel cookie turned upside down, with a chocolate dipped marshmallow on top, the buckle piped with yellow frosting gel. Let the kiddo's make their own!
Debbie also made these candy sticks dipped in chocolate and sprinkles. Cute favor!
Kristy Moreton made these cute Pretzel Bites. Buy the square pretzels named "Snaps" (even found at the $ store.) Put a hugs kiss on top. Put on a cookie sheet on a low oven for just a minute or two (so hug is soft). Pop an M & M on top and you've got a great little treat. I made these last year and having a bowl of these- sweet and salty is perfect! Heather White also makes something similar when you use the twist pretzel: Here is that recipe-
PRETZEL TURTLES (thanks, Heather!)
Set out mini pretzel twists on a cookie sheet.
Place 1 Hershey's ROLO on each pretzel. (Chocolate candy with caramel center.)
Place cookie sheet in a 170 degree oven for 2 minutes...or until chocolate is soft.
Press a whole PECAN into the center of each ROLO. Allow to cool (helps to place in fridge for a few minutes) and ENJOY!!!
1 cup oil
4 eggs
1 15 oz. can pumpkin
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
½ tsp cloves
½ tsp salt
2 cups flour
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously spray mini-muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and oil on medium speed. Add eggs one at a time and pumpkin until well combined.With mixer on low speed, add dry ingredients and blend for 1 minute. Fill muffin cups with 2 tsp of batter. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until cakes are done.
Cream Cheese Frosting
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup butter, room temperature
1 lb powered sugar
Evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Mix cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Add powered sugar to butter mix, add evaporated milk to create desired spreading consistency. Add in vanilla. Beat frosting at medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
Broken Glass Salad (Lisa Davies)
1 large box of each: Lime, Cherry, Orange Jell-o
Dissolve Jell-o in 3 cups hot water and pour into 8 x 8 pans
At least twenty women came if not more. Several people brought favors that we can make for Thanksgiving or Christmas. So many great ideas. Then a few favorite recipes. Then, as we ate lunch, we went around the table and shared one of our favorite holiday traditions. Always wonderful sharing. Here are just a few highlights:
The menu-
Arlene's wonderful Butternut Squash soup
I sauteed pumpkin seeds to sprinkle on the top of soup
Autumn Harvest salad...a little different than a traditional poppy seed dressing salad
Lion House rolls- did you know you can buy a mix for them now at Deseret Book. You add yeast, butter, water and an egg. I usually make Lion House from scratch and this was perfect! The dough was the perfect consistency.
Pumpkin Bites- Thanks Dennilynn....I loved them!
No Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars
Geneil's traditional grapefruit slush
Lisa Davies Broken Glass Salad (looks like stained glass- so beautiful!)
Michelle Parkinson's Baked Brie served with pear slices (oh yum!!!)
Autumn Tossed Salad
½ c. lemon juice
½ cup sugar
2 tsp. finely chopped onion
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
½ tsp. salt
2/3 c. vegetable oil
1 T. poppy seeds
1 bunch romaine, torn
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup unsalted cashews
1 medium apple, chopped
1 med pear, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
In a blender, combine the lemon juice, sugar, onion, mustard and salt. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Stir in poppy seeds. Transfer to a small pitcher or bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until chilled.
I found this cute squirrel as a template from Martha Stewart.com It was actually published in the Nov. 2006 edition of her magazine. I ended up making a variation since the original log was a real pain. But I utilized the squirrel in little favors- I also made little tubes with scrap booking paper, filled them with candy, wrapped and tied the whole thing with cellophane and ribbons for a favor for each place setting.
Pumpkin Bites- the recipe is below. Makes a million. Just a perfect little dessert
I bought these at Chocolate Covered Wagon but you can make them. Two marshmallows on a sucker stick, dipped in chocolate. Add candy eyes. A candy corn makes a cute nose rather than the pecan. Add a paper leaf or a silk one.
Geneil also gave us each a "Blessing Mix" she puts by each plate at Thanksgiving. The card attached says:
Blessing Mix
Bugles- shaped as cornucopias, these represent the horn of plenty.
Pretzels- These symbolize arms folded in thanks and prayer
Candy Corn- During the first winter, the pilgrims were each allotted only 5 kernels of corn per day because food was scarce.
Dried Fruit- Thanksgiving is the celebration of the harvest.
Nuts and Seeds- Seeds represent the potential of a bounteous harvest for the next season.
Happy Thanksgiving
Debbie Stowell made these cute pilgrim's hats out of a chocolate pinwheel cookie turned upside down, with a chocolate dipped marshmallow on top, the buckle piped with yellow frosting gel. Let the kiddo's make their own!
Debbie also made these candy sticks dipped in chocolate and sprinkles. Cute favor!
Kristy Moreton made these cute Pretzel Bites. Buy the square pretzels named "Snaps" (even found at the $ store.) Put a hugs kiss on top. Put on a cookie sheet on a low oven for just a minute or two (so hug is soft). Pop an M & M on top and you've got a great little treat. I made these last year and having a bowl of these- sweet and salty is perfect! Heather White also makes something similar when you use the twist pretzel: Here is that recipe-PRETZEL TURTLES (thanks, Heather!)Place 1 Hershey's ROLO on each pretzel. (Chocolate candy with caramel center.)
Place cookie sheet in a 170 degree oven for 2 minutes...or until chocolate is soft.
Press a whole PECAN into the center of each ROLO. Allow to cool (helps to place in fridge for a few minutes) and ENJOY!!!
Pumpkin Bites (Dennilynne Pulsipher)
2 cups sugar1 cup oil
4 eggs
1 15 oz. can pumpkin
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
½ tsp cloves
½ tsp salt
2 cups flour
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously spray mini-muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and oil on medium speed. Add eggs one at a time and pumpkin until well combined.With mixer on low speed, add dry ingredients and blend for 1 minute. Fill muffin cups with 2 tsp of batter. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until cakes are done.
Cool bites in pan for 8 minutes; turn out onto wire rack to cool completely. Frost with cream cheese frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting
1/4 cup butter, room temperature
1 lb powered sugar
Evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Broken Glass Salad (Lisa Davies)
Dissolve Jell-o in 3 cups hot water and pour into 8 x 8 pans
Chill for at least two hours
Crush 12 Graham Crackers inside of a Large zip lock baggie with a rolling pin
Add 1/2 cup sugar and 1 cube softened butter (not melted)
Close bag and knead until the butter and sugar are mixed in well
Press into a deep glass serving dish 9 x 13 or round truffle bowl to form a crust
Add 1/2 cup sugar and 1 cube softened butter (not melted)
Close bag and knead until the butter and sugar are mixed in well
Press into a deep glass serving dish 9 x 13 or round truffle bowl to form a crust
(Use something that will show off the pretty "broken glass"
Dissolve 1 package plain gelatin in 1/4 cup cold water
Heat 1 small can pineapple juice (1 cup) in microwave
Heat 1 small can pineapple juice (1 cup) in microwave
Stir in gelatin and let cool
Whip 1 pint whip cream and add 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla to sweeten
Fold in cooled pineapple gelatin mixture
Cut jell-o into 1 inch cubes (score the jell-o lengthwise and crosswise with a paring knife)
Set bottom of pan in 1/2" warm water for 10 seconds and they will slide right out of the pan.
Gently fold jell-o cubes into whip cream mixture and pour over crust.
Chill overnight
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Good Thoughts
Rapidly cleaning all today and shopping for shower gifts. The Twelve Days of birthday are in motion....I panicked yesterday and called Cathy's cell. "Where are you?" I demanded. She said she was driving home, almost home. I said, "Please, please,please. Turn around and meet me at Chocolate Covered Wagon." And because she is a good friend, a best friend, that's what she did. She delivered the first surprise to my friend, who is my hairdresser, who used to watch the kids when they were little (she was only 11 at the time) My birthday gal was doing a customer when Cathy got there....and so puzzled why anything would be delivered to HER! Day one was a caramel apple in a balloon tree. I know she loves caramel apples. Jan was here helping me clean this morning and she is delivering day two as I write. It was a basket with chips, her favorite dip and two of her favorites drinks. It made a big, cute cellophaned basket. The note said:
Eleven days before my birthday
My dear friends gave to me.
My favorite chips and dip to eat
While I watch t.v.
Okay, it is not Pulitzer prize or Pushcart poetry, but it will do.
I love that my friends would drop what they are doing to be "speedy" delivery boys (that was a nod to one of my hero's...Mr. Rogers)
Since I am running a hundred miles an hour today, working on several projects, I just wanted to leave a few quotes I love.
"Each of us must learn self-control of his thoughts. We must learn to control our thoughts, or someone or something else will control them. Untrained, unemployed thoughts are soon enslaved." Boyd K. Packer
"Who could a person possibly become what he is not thinking? Nor is any thought, when persistently entertained, too small to have its effect. The "divinity that shapes our ends" is indeed ourselves." Spencer W. Kimball
"If you first gain power to check your words you will then begin to have power to check your judgment, and at length actually gain power to check your thoughts and reflections." Brigham Young
"No good thought is ever lost. No turn of the mind, however brief or transitory or elusive, if it is good, is ever wasted. No thought of sympathy, nor of forgiveness, no reflection on generosity or of courage or of purity, no meditation on humility or gratitude or reverence is ever lost. The frequency with which they are experienced is the measure of you. The more constant they become, the more you are worth, or in scriptural terms, the more you are worthy. Every clean thought becomes you. Every clean thought becomes you." Boyd K. Packer
And just one closing thought, since I brought up my hero, Mr. Rogers (now sing a long with me...it will make you smile....)
"It’s such a good feeling to know you’re alive
It’s a such happy feeling
You’re growing inside
And when you wake up ready to say
I think I’ll make a snappy new day "
I was worried about all the things I needed to get done today...but I've changed my attitude just writing these thoughts. I'm going to breath deeper, think more positively. I'm going to make this a "snappy new day!"
Eleven days before my birthday
My dear friends gave to me.
My favorite chips and dip to eat
While I watch t.v.
Okay, it is not Pulitzer prize or Pushcart poetry, but it will do.
I love that my friends would drop what they are doing to be "speedy" delivery boys (that was a nod to one of my hero's...Mr. Rogers)
Since I am running a hundred miles an hour today, working on several projects, I just wanted to leave a few quotes I love.
"Each of us must learn self-control of his thoughts. We must learn to control our thoughts, or someone or something else will control them. Untrained, unemployed thoughts are soon enslaved." Boyd K. Packer
"Who could a person possibly become what he is not thinking? Nor is any thought, when persistently entertained, too small to have its effect. The "divinity that shapes our ends" is indeed ourselves." Spencer W. Kimball
"If you first gain power to check your words you will then begin to have power to check your judgment, and at length actually gain power to check your thoughts and reflections." Brigham Young
"No good thought is ever lost. No turn of the mind, however brief or transitory or elusive, if it is good, is ever wasted. No thought of sympathy, nor of forgiveness, no reflection on generosity or of courage or of purity, no meditation on humility or gratitude or reverence is ever lost. The frequency with which they are experienced is the measure of you. The more constant they become, the more you are worth, or in scriptural terms, the more you are worthy. Every clean thought becomes you. Every clean thought becomes you." Boyd K. Packer
And just one closing thought, since I brought up my hero, Mr. Rogers (now sing a long with me...it will make you smile....)
"It’s such a good feeling to know you’re alive
It’s a such happy feeling
You’re growing inside
And when you wake up ready to say
I think I’ll make a snappy new day "
I was worried about all the things I needed to get done today...but I've changed my attitude just writing these thoughts. I'm going to breath deeper, think more positively. I'm going to make this a "snappy new day!"
Monday, November 12, 2007
Monday Morning
- We had Brandi and her family out for dinner last night after their Primary program. All the kid’s program were wonderful. We hit Rylee’s first....Bo sat on my lap for most of it (he NEVER sits!) and then he was excited when his Grandma Jo walked in. She sat two seats away (I was saving a seat for David) and Bo kept saying, "Two grandmas! Two grandmas!" He then had to hold Grandma Jo’s hand and mine at the same time. After their cute program, David ran to Eagle Mountain to hear Joshie sing his solo (in Spanish...they go to a Spanish ward in case you missed that earlier) and I went to Brandi’s. Parker, Gracie and Hallee were darling...Brandi did an amazing job with the music (which is an entry for another time)....and the Spirit was awesome.
- After dinner, I suggested I just keep Hallee and Addison since Brandi had an early appointment this morning. I decided I would rather get no sleep during the night than have to get up early to be at their house (about ½ hour drive.) That made perfect sense! I no-slept with Hallee and Addison in the guest room. I'm already looking for a nap in the afternoon. I think Brandi gets "no-sleep" about every night!
- Today is another Monday morning and I’m already feeling like a horse (David would like that) in the chutes, just waiting for the "go" flag and the race is on.
- Here’s the "to-do"-
- watch kiddo’s today...we head over to Brandi’s about 11:00 so we can be there when Gracie gets home from kindergarten.
- I’m starting the Twelve Days of Birthday for someone in my life...who has never had a birthday party, whose mother died about 12 years ago, whose birthday is sandwiched in with Thanksgiving and no one remembers, and she has never married so she doesn’t have a hubbie or kiddo’s to jump up and down for her. I’m excited to do this but the everyday anonymous delivery will be the hard thing. I’m already stressing about it!!!
- And I need to get a script written for our Relief Society Christmas party. I need to get it written before Thanksgiving....since I will be in France the week after (I just had to throw that in in case anyone hasn’t heard I’M GOING TO FRANCE...it’s not like I’m excited or anything!!!) And the program is a couple days after I get home. I have a few ideas but until I can just sit down and get going, it is a huge lump in my stomach. (I’ve been wondering what that huge lump was....)
- I have major housecleaning to do tomorrow, need carpet cleaners
- need to perfect a few things for Creative cooking on Wed., that is a huge job
- need to have these cool favors I found for Thanksgiving printed and made for Creative cooking
- need to get two shower gifts for tomorrow night
- Gracie’s birthday on Friday-
High School Musical on Ice that night - Gracie’s party on Sat. here
- then run to Layton to help with Cadi’s baby shower
- I’m suppose to finish my portrait for a little art class exhibit on Sat. but I doubt that is going to happen!
- So, that’s what I’m working on this week.
But look how forlorn the kiddo's playground is looking. Usually the herd of deer are here, since we have two apple trees there just for the deer. The babies get a whole apple stuck in their mouths and it is funny to watch.
One of the "no-sleep sleepover girls." Hallee's a punkin!
Gracie delivered her cowgirl birthday party invitations yesterday. Look how cute they are! It is a cow paddle board, with the invite on the back! So clever!
There is a verse on the back that says:
Cowgirls Wanted!
Our little cowgirl is ready to ride-
She's all decked out in her pink cowhide.
So put on some "duds" and come join the crew
We'll roast marshmallows and ride horses too!
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