I'm wondering when it is really going to be spring. This is our front yard.
Green and white really do look pretty together.
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. John Muir
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. John Muir
Friday, April 30, 2010
Spring in Utah!
Today is Travis's birthday. I love that boy. He has brought more spice into my life that you could imagine. He was always in to something and he still is! Whew!
I'm wondering when it is really going to be spring. This is our front yard.
I'm wondering when it is really going to be spring. This is our front yard.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Not to belabor the point but...
I'm sorry but I'm still thinking these are the cutest things ever! Well, maybe not ever but I love them to death. Besides the farm set....
they have an astro set as well. Make sure you read the reviews of those who have used them and you'll have the cutest pancakes ever!
they have an astro set as well. Make sure you read the reviews of those who have used them and you'll have the cutest pancakes ever!Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Picture This
Yesterday Valene and Kathy and I got to celebrate. Well, we are always looking for an excuse to celebrate but yesterday we were celebrating Valene's birthday (last week) and Kathy's birthday (next week.) That meant lunch at Faustina's (heavenly) then hitting a couple of our favorite garden stores. Because yesterday it WAS spring.
The crab apple trees were heavenly in bloom.
The daffodils were delightful.
The outbuildings looked painterly.
The espaliered pear trees....heart be still!
Shower Fun
Last night was a bridal shower at Jan England's home for Ashlee Morrison. I loved the beautiful food table (don't I always love the food table...)
and loved the favor tree. Below were the favors. A lot of work, huh?
But so darling! They were filled with goodies. Candy pearls and gourmet taffy and more.
Yesterday while Kathy and Valene and I were out, we hit Trolley Square and Williams and Sonoma. I found my new favorite shower gift. (I always like something a little quirky. Surprising, huh?)
and loved the favor tree. Below were the favors. A lot of work, huh?
But so darling! They were filled with goodies. Candy pearls and gourmet taffy and more.
Yesterday while Kathy and Valene and I were out, we hit Trolley Square and Williams and Sonoma. I found my new favorite shower gift. (I always like something a little quirky. Surprising, huh?)
Williams and Sonoma had these darling pancake molds in the shape of farm animals. If that wasn't exciting enough, they also had these shake and pour containers for pancake mixes (and crepes...and whatever else you want to shake and pour)....to fill in the molds.
The top of the shake and pour has a smaller point so you can do details even better. Your Mickey Mouse pancakes will never look so good. How about writing out your kiddo's names!
I teamed them with a box of pancake mix and a bottle of Mrs. Butterworth. I love Mrs. Butterworth. (Mrs. Butterworth is buried in the Salt Lake Cemetery. Years ago Eve Mortensen and I went on an outing. Eve is who built the house we now live in. She was just starting to get Alzheimer's and it was our last "clear day." We were trekking around the cemetery looking for famous people and stumbled (literally) over Mrs. Butterworth. We got the giggles and afterwards I took Eve a Mrs. Butterworth statue so she wouldn't forget our day....)
The top of the shake and pour has a smaller point so you can do details even better. Your Mickey Mouse pancakes will never look so good. How about writing out your kiddo's names!
I teamed them with a box of pancake mix and a bottle of Mrs. Butterworth. I love Mrs. Butterworth. (Mrs. Butterworth is buried in the Salt Lake Cemetery. Years ago Eve Mortensen and I went on an outing. Eve is who built the house we now live in. She was just starting to get Alzheimer's and it was our last "clear day." We were trekking around the cemetery looking for famous people and stumbled (literally) over Mrs. Butterworth. We got the giggles and afterwards I took Eve a Mrs. Butterworth statue so she wouldn't forget our day....)
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Eggstravaganza Postponed!
Today is the perfect spring day! The sun is shining, the air crisp, the trees are all in bloom. This coming Saturday is my big Eggstravaganza. 1700 eggs have been patiently waiting for over a month. Our weather forecast predicts snow and rain starting Thursday until Sunday.
I DON'T want to deal with that again. Last year everyone hunted with umbrellas. I'm ready for sun....
So the egg hunt has been postponed for a week. For those involved, Sat. May 8th. I'll send out more information....
Foodie Review
Oh, heart be still. What a delightful afternoon. Yesteday I got Voila! all to myself. We made a date for today over a month ago and only had to postpone once so that is a record. We had several new restaurants to choose from but I talked her into going to Ruby Rock Brewery (its sister restaurant is my new favorite in Park City.) in downtown Salt Lake. We shared a yummy warm goat cheese salad and smoked turkey sandwich.
We talked journals and poetry. I'm giving her various writing assignments and then showing her ways to turn her journal entries into poems. For today's assignment she shared her love story (I always love to hear people's love stories) and also a fun essay about the worst bakery in France. So fun! I love her sharing with me and look forward to many more. We're already planning our next adventure.
Since it was my wheels on meals day, I thought we were heading straight home. But Voila! had a detour in mind.
She asked, "So have you ever heard of Bruges Belgium Waffles?"
No, why do you ask?
She told me the whole story. In Belgium (and France) you actually have street vendors selling waffles. But these waffles are nothing like American waffles. They are actually made with yeast and are moist and yummy. The man who owns and runs this teeny, tiny shop next to Tony Caputtos and across from Pioneer Park, is actually from the medieval city of Bruges, Belgium.
Here is part of a review I found online (and afterwards, you might want to run, not walk, to Bruges. Please call me when you go so I can go with. An adventure to be sure!)
"If you’ve had ’em at IHOP, you haven’t had the real thing. At Bruges Waffles & Frites, Vandamme makes and sells the hot, yeast-raised gaufres (waffles) favored by Bruggelingen, called the Liege waffle. Supposedly created by the Prince of Liege’s cook in the 18th century, a unique aspect of the Liege waffle is that it must contain small pieces of sugar within leavened dough. It wasn’t long before the gaufre became wildly popular in the Liege region and then throughout Belgium. The Liege waffle—which has a somewhat dense texture, is golden-yellow, has a burnt-sugar crust and is typically eaten by hand—shouldn’t be confused with the Brussels waffle, which is more uniform in shape, has deeper divots, and is eaten with a knife and fork. At Bruges Waffles & Frites, Liege waffles are sold for $3 each. However, the optional toppings are more Brussels-style, and include Belgian chocolate ($1), whipped cream ($1) or fresh strawberries ($2). The basic waffle, which is irregularly shaped but roughly the size of a 45-rpm record, is available plain (slightly sweet) or with a hint of cinnamon, which is my preference. I think it probably goes without saying that a Liege waffle topped with generous amounts of dark, rich Belgian chocolate is less a breakfast item and more the sort of thing you want to bring to an orgy. But, fair warning: Once you’ve had that particular rendition of a waffle, nothing else may ever suffice. The first thing you should know about Belgian frites is that it’s as much about the fry sauce as it is about the fries. And I hate to break it to you proud Utahns, but the Belgians beat you to fry sauce long ago. In Belgium, fries are always served with a selection of mayonnaise-based sauces. Frankly, I’ve always been a little disappointed in Belgian frites, but not in the sauces. That’s because I like my fries a little thinner, with the skin intact and double-cooked—just my personal preference. The frites at Bruges Waffles and Frites are as authentic as can be: hot, crisp and served in crazy-generous portions. A “small” order ($3) is more than enough for two people to share. There’s also a medium-sized portion ($5) and a large size ($6.50), which ought to be called “ginormous” since it feeds a small army. All the frites come served in a paper cone, with one free dipping sauce (extras are 65 cents). There are seven sauces to choose from, including curry, plain mayo, aioli and—my favorite—the “Andalouse,” made with orange bell pepper, fresh basil, mustard, cayenne, Tabasco and secret seasoning. " (Ted Scheffler-City Weekly)
Neighborhood Meals
We are lucky to have a restaurant supply store in the valley (actually several) and I always try to stock up on a variety of smaller aluminum pans to take meals to people so no one has to worry about returning bowls or plates. And I love the use and toss plastic containers (although I always use them over and over.) It may not be "green" but I know the people I take dinners to appreciate not having to remember to return my dishes.
Today's meal:
Today's meal:Baked salmon with an herb rub
rice pilaf
dilled carrots
warm garlic bread
Jello Pudding cake
Below is the cake in one of the smaller pans. A whole cake is too much for two people to eat completely but a cake this size is perfect for two meals. I love Jello Pudding Cake. The recipe is on the cooking blog.
Below is the cake in one of the smaller pans. A whole cake is too much for two people to eat completely but a cake this size is perfect for two meals. I love Jello Pudding Cake. The recipe is on the cooking blog.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Faith and Courage
Yesterday was Stake Conference (which is held once a year now...and all 8 Wards in our Stake meet together.) There were so many good talks but one I took copious notes on and wanted to write down here for future reference. A gal in our Stake, Shanna Nelson, spoke on "How to Maintain Faith and Courage During Trials." She had breast cancer many years ago, and thought she was cancer-free until recently, when she learned it has spread many places. Her positive attitude and focus were awe-inspiring. She gave pointers that I thought would be good with all trials, not just life threatening ones.
She began by reminding us of the adage that a pessimist sees a glass half-empty and an optimist sees it half-full. But what I had never heard was that a "giving person" sees that same glass and looks for someone who is thirsty.....
I loved that.
Seven Points for Faith and Courage-
1. Make a choice to go to church. It is so easy to make up excuses why you don't need to be in church. In her situation, she didn't want to talk about the trial, didn't want to go bald, just wanted to be left alone. But she likened a church to a hospital...it is a place to go and be healed. To feel better. It is easy to be lazy and wallow in our grief.
2. Realize that this earth is not our real home. It is but a training ground, a time of proving, a school of learning for our real eternal home. It is the beginning of a better thing.
3. Read the scriptures regularly. While reading the scriptures, she realized that all the prophets and people in the scriptures had huge trials and inabilities and felt inadequate...and she saw how they overcame, with the help of the Lord, these things. (note: I realize how many of my prayers have been answered while reading the scriptures and the things I would have missed had I not been.)
4. Focus and enjoy today. With trials, your mind can race about things tomorrow or the next day and "what ifs" and you get worn out before the war.
5. Pray and then pray some more. She keeps a running prayer, a running conversation with God at all times.
6. Keep moving. Get daily exercise. It helps clear the mind and allows you to focus on health, not your illness.
7. Enjoy life. Have fun. Enjoy new experiences. She shared some hilarious things she has been doing. Laugh. This takes effort but do it! You can't afford to wait until tomorrow.
Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory. -- George S. Patton
She began by reminding us of the adage that a pessimist sees a glass half-empty and an optimist sees it half-full. But what I had never heard was that a "giving person" sees that same glass and looks for someone who is thirsty.....
I loved that.
Seven Points for Faith and Courage-
1. Make a choice to go to church. It is so easy to make up excuses why you don't need to be in church. In her situation, she didn't want to talk about the trial, didn't want to go bald, just wanted to be left alone. But she likened a church to a hospital...it is a place to go and be healed. To feel better. It is easy to be lazy and wallow in our grief.
2. Realize that this earth is not our real home. It is but a training ground, a time of proving, a school of learning for our real eternal home. It is the beginning of a better thing.
3. Read the scriptures regularly. While reading the scriptures, she realized that all the prophets and people in the scriptures had huge trials and inabilities and felt inadequate...and she saw how they overcame, with the help of the Lord, these things. (note: I realize how many of my prayers have been answered while reading the scriptures and the things I would have missed had I not been.)
4. Focus and enjoy today. With trials, your mind can race about things tomorrow or the next day and "what ifs" and you get worn out before the war.
5. Pray and then pray some more. She keeps a running prayer, a running conversation with God at all times.
6. Keep moving. Get daily exercise. It helps clear the mind and allows you to focus on health, not your illness.
7. Enjoy life. Have fun. Enjoy new experiences. She shared some hilarious things she has been doing. Laugh. This takes effort but do it! You can't afford to wait until tomorrow.
Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory. -- George S. Patton
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Out of the Mouths of Babes
SIL Ryan called me the other day to report on an Addi-ism that he didn't want to forget to tell Brandi. He had taken Addi to get a drink. She was carefully examining the cup the drink came in and exclaimed, "Oh, good! It can be resurrected!"
Ryan asked what she meant and she said her pre-school teacher told her to look for a certain mark on bottles and cups that meant it could be resurrected...........
Love that!
I have to mention my son Travis and his parenting. It was so tender to watch the relationship between he and Nash (Nash is almost three) (and was suppose to be in bed.) Nash is a totally daddy's boy (and grandpa's boy...he could care less about me) and is rough and tumble but can melt you as soon as he talks. What I wanted to mention is that Travis is a biker and as soon as the kids can ride a bike (even with training wheels) he takes them on these horrendous treks. They ride from their house to Tenille's parents (about 3 miles).....all 3 kids....ages 7, almost 5 and Nash, almost 3. THREE MILES! Nash rides a teeny tiny bike about 2 feet tall with training wheels. I can't even believe it! He said last week all three kids biffed it at some point. But on they go........
Ryan asked what she meant and she said her pre-school teacher told her to look for a certain mark on bottles and cups that meant it could be resurrected...........
Love that!
I have to mention my son Travis and his parenting. It was so tender to watch the relationship between he and Nash (Nash is almost three) (and was suppose to be in bed.) Nash is a totally daddy's boy (and grandpa's boy...he could care less about me) and is rough and tumble but can melt you as soon as he talks. What I wanted to mention is that Travis is a biker and as soon as the kids can ride a bike (even with training wheels) he takes them on these horrendous treks. They ride from their house to Tenille's parents (about 3 miles).....all 3 kids....ages 7, almost 5 and Nash, almost 3. THREE MILES! Nash rides a teeny tiny bike about 2 feet tall with training wheels. I can't even believe it! He said last week all three kids biffed it at some point. But on they go........
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Cooking
I've had several people email asking for the cooking blog address so I thought I would post it again. But you really don't need the address. If you look over above my baby picture (dang cute baby picture) you will see the words Constant Growing Amazement Cooks. Just put your cursor over it and it will highlight and click on it and it takes you right to the site. When you get there, there will be one to bring you back. It's that easy. Thank you, Blogspot! I've been posting lots of recipes you'll want to try.
Guess What I Found Yesterday
Mission accomplished after just two stores! Thank you, Spoons and Spice! And can I say, the glazed nuts are the best I've EVER made. I'll share the whole recipe later in the week. But today I'm a happy camper. Well, probably happier than David who had to sleep out in the rain last night.Friday, April 23, 2010
Friday and Quotes
I don't know where my head is. It is raining, it HAS been raining...and it is April. Like April showers. For some reason, I keep thinking we are in May, which totally ruins the weather theory I posted yesterday. What can I say? I'm confused. It is part of who I am.
And we have been having TONS of rain. Sheets of rain. Barrels of rain. My newly planted flowers need oars to keep afloat.
“A poet is someone who stands outside in the rain hoping to be struck by lightning." James Dickey
Poor David. He's been in New York on business for the past two days and got home last night. He'll come home early from work today to pack up the Scouts and head for a camp out. Sounds fun....camping in a rain storm. Today on my list is picking up groceries for the camp. Tin foil dinners for tonight. Making cookies. Breakfast stuff. Oh, good news. David picked up his steers this week (I won't go into my dialogue of "we leased the steers for beaucoup (boo-coo for the unFRench) bucks for 7 months so he can rope them for fun. We pay for them, we feed them (more boo-coo), we fattened them up and then we send them home to their "real" owners.) (Sorry, I guess I went into my dialogue....) (Oh yes, I forgot, we got to purchase a huge bobcat so David can scoop their poop. Mountains and mountains of poop.) (Can you tell I'm not a farm girl?)
Decorate your house. It gives the illusion that your life is more interesting than it really is. Charles Shultz
Yesterday started with an early morning phonecall that David's aunt Donna in Idaho died. That is the last of my father-in-law's siblings. This one is hard on my MIL. Donna was a very funny, fiesty lady. I absolutely adored her. She was also very political and I mentioned to mom that I'm sure she left because she couldn't stand to see one more day of what our country is doing politically. She could give you an earful on that!
Someday your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it is worth watching.
And we have been having TONS of rain. Sheets of rain. Barrels of rain. My newly planted flowers need oars to keep afloat.
“A poet is someone who stands outside in the rain hoping to be struck by lightning." James Dickey
Poor David. He's been in New York on business for the past two days and got home last night. He'll come home early from work today to pack up the Scouts and head for a camp out. Sounds fun....camping in a rain storm. Today on my list is picking up groceries for the camp. Tin foil dinners for tonight. Making cookies. Breakfast stuff. Oh, good news. David picked up his steers this week (I won't go into my dialogue of "we leased the steers for beaucoup (boo-coo for the unFRench) bucks for 7 months so he can rope them for fun. We pay for them, we feed them (more boo-coo), we fattened them up and then we send them home to their "real" owners.) (Sorry, I guess I went into my dialogue....) (Oh yes, I forgot, we got to purchase a huge bobcat so David can scoop their poop. Mountains and mountains of poop.) (Can you tell I'm not a farm girl?)
Milk isn't the only thing to come out of a cow. Chinese Proverb
Tonight I have a date with my son, Travis. He wants me to come and watch episode after episode of Modern Family....which he thinks is hysterical. I do have to preface that for most of his life, I have been horrifed about what Travis laughs at so this should be interesting. (Of course, I am the one who laughs at The Office so go figure.) I'm glad he wants to share his "glee" with his mom.
“Sometimes I lie awake at night, and ask, 'Where have I gone wrong?' Then a voice says to me, 'This is going to take more than one night.'"
Charles M. Schulz
Decorate your house. It gives the illusion that your life is more interesting than it really is. Charles Shultz
Yesterday started with an early morning phonecall that David's aunt Donna in Idaho died. That is the last of my father-in-law's siblings. This one is hard on my MIL. Donna was a very funny, fiesty lady. I absolutely adored her. She was also very political and I mentioned to mom that I'm sure she left because she couldn't stand to see one more day of what our country is doing politically. She could give you an earful on that!
Someday your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it is worth watching.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Randomness
1- I woke up this morning with weather-related noises outside at 4:00 am. The problem with sleeping with Ambien (for me) is when I wake up in the morning, I'm AWAKE since I've had deep sleep until then. So I've been up and down. When down, I've had the weirdest dreams....I'm still shaking my head over them. WHERE DO WEIRD DREAMS COME FROM? I can't wait to find out someday. This one involved attempting to bowl at a country club outdoor bowling facility without being able to find a ball to use or bowling shoes. It went on and on and on and my new team (consisting of funny Kathy and Valene and some of Brandi's old high school friends) wasn't very happy with me.
2-I'm on the search for 5-spice powder. Is that a normal thing one finds in the grocery aisle? It is an Asian blend that can be overpowering (I have since read. Until yesterday I had never heard of it.) I found a recipe I'm anxious to try that has spiced pecans. When Sophia and I met-in-the-middle last week, we ate at Plates and Palate...and our salad had a spiced pecan. It has been driving me crazy that I can't identify what was on it. It wasn't just sweet but also a dry taste as well. They call for sugar, 5-spice, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, then brown sugar and maple and butter. Are you intrigued? I'm very excited....I know that sounds strange to most of you. What if this was the perfect spiced pecan I have been dreaming about? Porcupine Grill has a dry spiced pecan (without the sweetness) and I've tried many a time to duplicate without success but they are close enough I can go there for lunch often for my fix. Plates and Palates isn't.
3- I have a pretty good SPAM censor on my new computer so I have been amazed that every day I get emails dealing with buying new downloadable software. The letters are jumbled (I haven't opened the text) but it is interesting how they are getting through. The emails are designed to look like they are coming from individuals.....just a second ago (that is why this randomness is on my mind) the email came from Darelle Devita. Yesterday it was from Sharonella Sweeten. The one before Reginold Remy. It makes you wonder what little boy or girl used to sit around and say, in answer to the question "What do you want to do when you grow up?- and the answer was "I want to sit around and make up imaginery people all day long." (I haven't received one from Knudson, my imaginary brother I made up in elementary school or from Carl, my imaginary Yahtzee partner- who I might add just disappeared....I think he didn't like the attention. Now I have to play with all these people I don't even know (also imaginary) and it just isn't the same.....) I know. I know. I scare myself.....
4- Each year I think this but the childhood singsong about April showers bring May flowers doesn't work in Utah. In April we get snow and it finally cuts loose with rain in May (mingled with snow again.) Yesterday we had the most delightful storms! Hallee Babe and Addi were in the car with me when it was getting ready to cut loose and Addi asked me what thunder was. I realized I am starting to slack in my sound abilities. I kept making all these noises, none of which sounded the least like thunder. I was quite discouraged with myself. Almost humiliated. One more thing to add to my "closer to 100 than one" list....
5- I'm very excited today to go to my new long-lost-cousin (not imaginary) Sharon's home (not Sharonella.) She is a genealogy/computer and new family search enthusiast....she is going to teach another cousin, Zella, and I classes each Thursday. I know I don't need another hobby but I know I need to learn this stuff and what better way than to have private lessons with people I love? I'm certainly hoping that occasionally lunch will be involved (since the class ends at noon) but if it doesn't, I'll try hard to act mature. (It is sooo not in my nature!)
6- Our wonderful study group this week talked about spiritual gifts, a topic near and dear to me. The discussion leader was Heidi Zarbock, talking about the patience part of faith. She (and I) are of the adage, "I want patience and I WANT IT NOW!" I know that being impatient is something I always struggle with ... which was reemphasized as I have had the kiddos this week. EVERYTHING takes so long, whether getting on shoes, getting in and out of the car, the car seats, in and out of bathing suits, etc. I marvel at patient parents. I don't think I ever was one. But Heidi shared a idea that I thought was beautiful. She said that she learned, when her small daughter was going through leukemia, that "the faith to move mountains wasn't about power...but the relinquishing of power so you could concentrate on climbing." I realize that my own faith increases through the climb, the difficulties and overcoming. The moving of the mountain isn't the important thing...the moving of us- our will, our attitudes, and sometimes our making ourselves get out of bed and facing another day.... now that is the worthwhile miracle.
Learn the art of patience. Apply discipline to your thoughts when they become anxious over the outcome of a goal. Impatience breeds anxiety, fear, discouragement and failure. Patience creates confidence, decisiveness, and a rational outlook, which eventually leads to success.
Brian Adams
2-I'm on the search for 5-spice powder. Is that a normal thing one finds in the grocery aisle? It is an Asian blend that can be overpowering (I have since read. Until yesterday I had never heard of it.) I found a recipe I'm anxious to try that has spiced pecans. When Sophia and I met-in-the-middle last week, we ate at Plates and Palate...and our salad had a spiced pecan. It has been driving me crazy that I can't identify what was on it. It wasn't just sweet but also a dry taste as well. They call for sugar, 5-spice, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, then brown sugar and maple and butter. Are you intrigued? I'm very excited....I know that sounds strange to most of you. What if this was the perfect spiced pecan I have been dreaming about? Porcupine Grill has a dry spiced pecan (without the sweetness) and I've tried many a time to duplicate without success but they are close enough I can go there for lunch often for my fix. Plates and Palates isn't.
3- I have a pretty good SPAM censor on my new computer so I have been amazed that every day I get emails dealing with buying new downloadable software. The letters are jumbled (I haven't opened the text) but it is interesting how they are getting through. The emails are designed to look like they are coming from individuals.....just a second ago (that is why this randomness is on my mind) the email came from Darelle Devita. Yesterday it was from Sharonella Sweeten. The one before Reginold Remy. It makes you wonder what little boy or girl used to sit around and say, in answer to the question "What do you want to do when you grow up?- and the answer was "I want to sit around and make up imaginery people all day long." (I haven't received one from Knudson, my imaginary brother I made up in elementary school or from Carl, my imaginary Yahtzee partner- who I might add just disappeared....I think he didn't like the attention. Now I have to play with all these people I don't even know (also imaginary) and it just isn't the same.....) I know. I know. I scare myself.....
4- Each year I think this but the childhood singsong about April showers bring May flowers doesn't work in Utah. In April we get snow and it finally cuts loose with rain in May (mingled with snow again.) Yesterday we had the most delightful storms! Hallee Babe and Addi were in the car with me when it was getting ready to cut loose and Addi asked me what thunder was. I realized I am starting to slack in my sound abilities. I kept making all these noises, none of which sounded the least like thunder. I was quite discouraged with myself. Almost humiliated. One more thing to add to my "closer to 100 than one" list....
5- I'm very excited today to go to my new long-lost-cousin (not imaginary) Sharon's home (not Sharonella.) She is a genealogy/computer and new family search enthusiast....she is going to teach another cousin, Zella, and I classes each Thursday. I know I don't need another hobby but I know I need to learn this stuff and what better way than to have private lessons with people I love? I'm certainly hoping that occasionally lunch will be involved (since the class ends at noon) but if it doesn't, I'll try hard to act mature. (It is sooo not in my nature!)
6- Our wonderful study group this week talked about spiritual gifts, a topic near and dear to me. The discussion leader was Heidi Zarbock, talking about the patience part of faith. She (and I) are of the adage, "I want patience and I WANT IT NOW!" I know that being impatient is something I always struggle with ... which was reemphasized as I have had the kiddos this week. EVERYTHING takes so long, whether getting on shoes, getting in and out of the car, the car seats, in and out of bathing suits, etc. I marvel at patient parents. I don't think I ever was one. But Heidi shared a idea that I thought was beautiful. She said that she learned, when her small daughter was going through leukemia, that "the faith to move mountains wasn't about power...but the relinquishing of power so you could concentrate on climbing." I realize that my own faith increases through the climb, the difficulties and overcoming. The moving of the mountain isn't the important thing...the moving of us- our will, our attitudes, and sometimes our making ourselves get out of bed and facing another day.... now that is the worthwhile miracle.
Learn the art of patience. Apply discipline to your thoughts when they become anxious over the outcome of a goal. Impatience breeds anxiety, fear, discouragement and failure. Patience creates confidence, decisiveness, and a rational outlook, which eventually leads to success.
Brian Adams
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Picture This
Whew! This ol'grey mare isn't what she used to be! Since daughter Brandi and son Ryan were swimming with the stingrays in the Grand Caymans, Marci and kiddos and the kiddos and I decided to go see the stingrays at the Living Planet Aquarium, not far from my home.
They are a wild bunch, my kiddos...but we had a great time. My favorites were the penguins (worth going to see) and learning about octopus (ours at the aquarium is female) and of course seeing the kids petting the sting rays (they cut off the barbs regularly so they are non-threatening.) The sharks and crocodiles creep us in a good way.
We've had movie mayhem. Of course, if you have movies, you have to have popcorn. If you have kiddos and popcorn, you have mayhem. It is a vicious circle. Honestly, toys and popcorn and blankies everywhere. The home teachers came in the middle of it..... (I had forgotten they were coming since my brain was already frazzled.)
Parker and I did our usual Skip Bo tournament.
Started planting the wall. I love the wall and green box elder and red geraniums. (Did I mention the size of the geranium? That is ONE plant!)
And I planted my first batch of basil for the greenhouse. I can almost taste brushetta.....
Things are starting to bloom in there. I really, really, really think spring is coming!
The front walk is littered with bikes. (others are out on the court.) Thanks Travis for some serious bike instruction for one of the kiddos. This was a "must-do" on my list while they were here.
We've had multitudes of Treasure Hunts, both inside and out.
Part of the inside Treasure Hunt.
Part of the outside treasure hunt.
Needless to say, 1,000 "Grandma! Look here! Grandma! What's this! Grandma, I'm bored! Grandma, can I have a banana? Grandma, when is Grandpa coming home? Grandma, he touched my toe! Tell him to leave me alone. Grandma! What are we going to do now?"....I was TOTALLY ready for bed.
Oh wait? Except for David who snored through all the excitement....
Oh, I didn't mention the 1,000 "Grandma, I love you." Worth it!
They are a wild bunch, my kiddos...but we had a great time. My favorites were the penguins (worth going to see) and learning about octopus (ours at the aquarium is female) and of course seeing the kids petting the sting rays (they cut off the barbs regularly so they are non-threatening.) The sharks and crocodiles creep us in a good way.
We've had movie mayhem. Of course, if you have movies, you have to have popcorn. If you have kiddos and popcorn, you have mayhem. It is a vicious circle. Honestly, toys and popcorn and blankies everywhere. The home teachers came in the middle of it..... (I had forgotten they were coming since my brain was already frazzled.)
Parker and I did our usual Skip Bo tournament.
Started planting the wall. I love the wall and green box elder and red geraniums. (Did I mention the size of the geranium? That is ONE plant!)
And I planted my first batch of basil for the greenhouse. I can almost taste brushetta.....
Things are starting to bloom in there. I really, really, really think spring is coming!
The front walk is littered with bikes. (others are out on the court.) Thanks Travis for some serious bike instruction for one of the kiddos. This was a "must-do" on my list while they were here.
We've had multitudes of Treasure Hunts, both inside and out.
Part of the inside Treasure Hunt.
Part of the outside treasure hunt.
Needless to say, 1,000 "Grandma! Look here! Grandma! What's this! Grandma, I'm bored! Grandma, can I have a banana? Grandma, when is Grandpa coming home? Grandma, he touched my toe! Tell him to leave me alone. Grandma! What are we going to do now?"....I was TOTALLY ready for bed.
Unfortunately with 4 kiddos, you don't really just get to go to bed. You fix hurt fingers, ears that are hurting, bathroom, giggling, a few tears, coughing. It is up and down, up and down.
Oh wait? Except for David who snored through all the excitement....
Oh, I didn't mention the 1,000 "Grandma, I love you." Worth it!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Weekend Meme
Your weekend? Good!
Highlights? Friday I painted for 3 hours in the morning, then funny Kathy and I went to lunch (Stella's) then we hit two garden stores. I bought more geraniums and lots of fresh basil and a couple of other fun things. (Deer don't eat my geraniums and these are HUGE for a great price...but only for a few weeks more!)
Dates? We went with Kirk and Cathy Friday night to dinner (Jordan Commons) and then the movies (Date Night.)
Sports? Just on t.v. How many basketball games can be played?????? The kiddo's soccer games all started (four playing and Parker plays basketball as well) but we didn't see any of them this weekend.
Sunday dinner? Poppyseed chicken, the crunchy romaine salad, grapes and the Graham Gems for dessert. I'm making a repeat for the families I take dinner to today.
Work? David and I worked in the garage. That is our favorite grouchy thing next to taxes. Two in one week about killed us off....
Saturday afternoon? Took Brandi and son Ryan to the airport, then I went grocery shopping, got a haircut (several hairs) and came home to garage cleaning. Chilled at night.
Worship? Of course. It is how I get recharged for the week. Great meetings. Inspiring talks. I didn't teach yesterday so it was relaxing. I love Sundays. Last week I taught on the Exodus and the Passover. My next lesson is "Look to God and Live" when Moses raises his serpent staff and those who looked "live" and those who refuse die. Basically God tells the Israelites and us the same thing....and it requires us to DO something (look up and live!) I love all the stories/analogies of Moses. Every week in the Old Testament I say, "This is my favorite story. Oh, wait? THIS is my favorite story. Oh wait!" I LOVE them all. They are all engraven on my heart.
Weather? It was like spring! I threw the doors open and windows as well! The birds are going crazy! We are all happy campers....spring is always too short.
Funny? Well, I went out to the greenhouse to water flowers and the asparagus plants ($30 worth)....and my MIL had accidentally thrown away the asparagus plants (they were in a brown paper bag.) She's such a cleaner!
Family? I took Brandi and son Ryan to the airport. My son occasionally does travel groups and he was taking a cruise group and invited Brandi to go along. A brother and sister date! I'm so happy for Brandi who totally needs a break. They will cruise along Belize, Honduras, the Cayman Islands and Cozumel. I'm watching kiddos for several of the days.
Also, I love Sundays since many of the kids come. Brooke and Tanner and Annee came for dinner and games, then Travis and Tenille and family came as well.
Excited? I've been planning food assignments for Lake Powell. Friends come for half the week, then family comes. It is almost a well-oiled machine! And I have lots of fun things I'm working on/planning in the next 7 months- the Eggstravaganza, a trip to Washington to see my folks, Lake Powell, a family reunion at Bear Lake, a high school friend trip to California (we call ourselves The Charm Girls) a girlie friend trip (with Valene, Kathy, Cathy, Brendalyn, etc.) and a trip to Italy or SOMEPLACE!
Frustrated? Well, other than the asparagus, our hot water has been spurting some dirty sandy stuff. We've never had this before but I asked in art class and half of the class had this experience. Sometimes hot water heaters have to be drained because silt accumulates in the bottom. Who knew? So we drained the heater and flushed it. I'm not convinced it is clean.
Music? Dang, I didn't toot a horn or tune up the clarinet (I don't have one.) I'm really not musical although I downloaded about a dozen songs from Itunes this weekend. Does that count? (I got the new Brooke White/Justin Gaston song they sang on Idol plus several songs by The Script, Coldplay, Boys Like Girls (with Taylor Swift) and Maroon 5. )
There aren't enough days in the weekend. ~Rod Schmidt
Highlights? Friday I painted for 3 hours in the morning, then funny Kathy and I went to lunch (Stella's) then we hit two garden stores. I bought more geraniums and lots of fresh basil and a couple of other fun things. (Deer don't eat my geraniums and these are HUGE for a great price...but only for a few weeks more!)
Dates? We went with Kirk and Cathy Friday night to dinner (Jordan Commons) and then the movies (Date Night.)
Sports? Just on t.v. How many basketball games can be played?????? The kiddo's soccer games all started (four playing and Parker plays basketball as well) but we didn't see any of them this weekend.
Sunday dinner? Poppyseed chicken, the crunchy romaine salad, grapes and the Graham Gems for dessert. I'm making a repeat for the families I take dinner to today.
Work? David and I worked in the garage. That is our favorite grouchy thing next to taxes. Two in one week about killed us off....
Saturday afternoon? Took Brandi and son Ryan to the airport, then I went grocery shopping, got a haircut (several hairs) and came home to garage cleaning. Chilled at night.
Worship? Of course. It is how I get recharged for the week. Great meetings. Inspiring talks. I didn't teach yesterday so it was relaxing. I love Sundays. Last week I taught on the Exodus and the Passover. My next lesson is "Look to God and Live" when Moses raises his serpent staff and those who looked "live" and those who refuse die. Basically God tells the Israelites and us the same thing....and it requires us to DO something (look up and live!) I love all the stories/analogies of Moses. Every week in the Old Testament I say, "This is my favorite story. Oh, wait? THIS is my favorite story. Oh wait!" I LOVE them all. They are all engraven on my heart.
Weather? It was like spring! I threw the doors open and windows as well! The birds are going crazy! We are all happy campers....spring is always too short.
Funny? Well, I went out to the greenhouse to water flowers and the asparagus plants ($30 worth)....and my MIL had accidentally thrown away the asparagus plants (they were in a brown paper bag.) She's such a cleaner!
Family? I took Brandi and son Ryan to the airport. My son occasionally does travel groups and he was taking a cruise group and invited Brandi to go along. A brother and sister date! I'm so happy for Brandi who totally needs a break. They will cruise along Belize, Honduras, the Cayman Islands and Cozumel. I'm watching kiddos for several of the days.
Also, I love Sundays since many of the kids come. Brooke and Tanner and Annee came for dinner and games, then Travis and Tenille and family came as well.
Excited? I've been planning food assignments for Lake Powell. Friends come for half the week, then family comes. It is almost a well-oiled machine! And I have lots of fun things I'm working on/planning in the next 7 months- the Eggstravaganza, a trip to Washington to see my folks, Lake Powell, a family reunion at Bear Lake, a high school friend trip to California (we call ourselves The Charm Girls) a girlie friend trip (with Valene, Kathy, Cathy, Brendalyn, etc.) and a trip to Italy or SOMEPLACE!
Frustrated? Well, other than the asparagus, our hot water has been spurting some dirty sandy stuff. We've never had this before but I asked in art class and half of the class had this experience. Sometimes hot water heaters have to be drained because silt accumulates in the bottom. Who knew? So we drained the heater and flushed it. I'm not convinced it is clean.
Music? Dang, I didn't toot a horn or tune up the clarinet (I don't have one.) I'm really not musical although I downloaded about a dozen songs from Itunes this weekend. Does that count? (I got the new Brooke White/Justin Gaston song they sang on Idol plus several songs by The Script, Coldplay, Boys Like Girls (with Taylor Swift) and Maroon 5. )
There aren't enough days in the weekend. ~Rod Schmidt
Saturday, April 17, 2010
When Spring Came and other tragedies
WHEN SPRING CAME and other tragedies
When spring came and the heads of crocus
Popped brilliantly out of ground
It was all I could do to keep mine
Propped on a pillow...what with antihistamines
decongestants
aspirin
Not to mention a wastebasket full of soggy Kleenex.
When spring came and the tulips found
Morning sun excuse enough to lift their faces,
I was still searching for some to justify
Unwashed windows...what with smog
pollution
blustery winds
Not to mention 40 adolescent fingers eating peanut butter and jam.
When spring came and the streets and pathways
Became laden with joggers and cyclers
Sporting newly tanned legs,
I was still trying to find mine...what with flannel nightgowns
woolly ski socks
3" of cellulite
Not to mention 2 varicose veins that resemble racing stripes.
When spring came and the neighbors we haven’t
Seen or heard of since last summer drop in
Unexpectedly bearing charcoal briquettes,
I was still trying to decide between Early Girl
and Big Boy,
fertilizer ratios
Not to mention who last borrowed our power mower,
And remembering...when winter was so much easier!
Marilyn Darley Williams
When spring came and the heads of crocus
Popped brilliantly out of ground
It was all I could do to keep mine
Propped on a pillow...what with antihistamines
decongestants
aspirin
Not to mention a wastebasket full of soggy Kleenex.
When spring came and the tulips found
Morning sun excuse enough to lift their faces,
I was still searching for some to justify
Unwashed windows...what with smog
pollution
blustery winds
Not to mention 40 adolescent fingers eating peanut butter and jam.
When spring came and the streets and pathways
Became laden with joggers and cyclers
Sporting newly tanned legs,
I was still trying to find mine...what with flannel nightgowns
woolly ski socks
3" of cellulite
Not to mention 2 varicose veins that resemble racing stripes.
When spring came and the neighbors we haven’t
Seen or heard of since last summer drop in
Unexpectedly bearing charcoal briquettes,
I was still trying to decide between Early Girl
and Big Boy,
fertilizer ratios
Not to mention who last borrowed our power mower,
And remembering...when winter was so much easier!
Marilyn Darley Williams
New Yummy Salad
This salad is called Crunchy Romaine Toss...and it's a winner. The recipe is posted on the cooking blog.
I'm seeking new summer salads for our upcoming Creative Cooking class...so PLEASE, send me your favorites.
Friday, April 16, 2010
What's Going On
Have but a minute but-
1. Earthquake in Utah! I didn't feel it but my sister-in-law from Layton did. Sophia called last night and as soon as I answered, I started singing the Carole King song, "I feel the earth move under my feet...." I don't think there was any damage. Just a good enough shake everyone will be thinking of filling their water barrels and getting their food storage caught up. Sometimes we need a nudge!
2. Windows cleaned this morning! It must be spring!
3. Art class is 3 hours this morning! Hurray! We do this once a month- a 3 hr. instead of 2 hour.
I'm finishing up a picture of poppies and will start on a gift for my brother and sister in law of the river by their house.
4. Date night tonight with David, Kirk and Cathy. Movies and dinner.
5. picking up funny Kathy, who had foot surgery and we're doing lunch and hitting a few more garden stores. I hope she doesn't ask people IN A LOUD HALTING VOICE if they speak English like she did last time. I'm still shaking my head and laughing over that one.
6. planting a million flowers this weekend. They are all pretty hardy so I think when it snows again (and it will), they'll be fine.
7. Working on the next creative cooking class. We will be highlighting some good new salads for summer and a few artisan breads plus 4th of July ideas. If anyone has any good recipes OR ideas, please send them my way.
Gotta Go! The birds are singing!
1. Earthquake in Utah! I didn't feel it but my sister-in-law from Layton did. Sophia called last night and as soon as I answered, I started singing the Carole King song, "I feel the earth move under my feet...." I don't think there was any damage. Just a good enough shake everyone will be thinking of filling their water barrels and getting their food storage caught up. Sometimes we need a nudge!
2. Windows cleaned this morning! It must be spring!
3. Art class is 3 hours this morning! Hurray! We do this once a month- a 3 hr. instead of 2 hour.
I'm finishing up a picture of poppies and will start on a gift for my brother and sister in law of the river by their house.
4. Date night tonight with David, Kirk and Cathy. Movies and dinner.
5. picking up funny Kathy, who had foot surgery and we're doing lunch and hitting a few more garden stores. I hope she doesn't ask people IN A LOUD HALTING VOICE if they speak English like she did last time. I'm still shaking my head and laughing over that one.
6. planting a million flowers this weekend. They are all pretty hardy so I think when it snows again (and it will), they'll be fine.
7. Working on the next creative cooking class. We will be highlighting some good new salads for summer and a few artisan breads plus 4th of July ideas. If anyone has any good recipes OR ideas, please send them my way.
Gotta Go! The birds are singing!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Meet In The Middle
Yesterday friend Sophia and I had a "meet-in-the-middle." She rode with her friend Wendy and newly adopted baby, Miki....so I got to meet them both. Awesome! I was so excited to meet Wendy and coo at the baby that I totally ignored Sophia until she said, "What am I, chopped liver?" Funny!
The Secret Haven at the Rock Loft (no WONDER I never get that name right) is always our first haunt. Always full of eye candy.
But our BEST find was being told of a great place for lunch in Bountiful, Plates and Palates. When we walked in I was skeptical...... but the food was INCREDIBLE! (We each had half of a Rueben and then a pear, glazed pecan and gorgonzola salad...one of the best I've had.) If you are anywhere in the area, it is worth the drive! I'm already thinking I might a trip tomorrow.......
This was the funky flower on the purse....
And below is the purse. The bottom part of the purse is all puckered. So darling!
The Secret Haven at the Rock Loft (no WONDER I never get that name right) is always our first haunt. Always full of eye candy.
But our BEST find was being told of a great place for lunch in Bountiful, Plates and Palates. When we walked in I was skeptical...... but the food was INCREDIBLE! (We each had half of a Rueben and then a pear, glazed pecan and gorgonzola salad...one of the best I've had.) If you are anywhere in the area, it is worth the drive! I'm already thinking I might a trip tomorrow.......
Our next best find was in a quilting store. They had the cutest homemade purses ever....
and especially this pattern, that uses this special fusing material called Texture Magic that causes the fabric to pucker and buckle. BFFFC (best forever friend from college) Peggy, you'd better be so happy we are friends........
This was the funky flower on the purse....
Sophia and I had a great day, as always. And I was so proud of her...she didn't knock down ONE display! I can almost relax when we're together....
Love Helped Me Win Gold!
Tenille showed me this headline that was in an Australian magazine (kind of like People.) It has quite the National Enquirer flare....and is funny since Torah really doesn't like the spotlight or limelight.....but they've had a good laugh over the drama of this headline (the article was better.)
Snowboard queen Torah Bright stood nervously on the lip of the halfpipe at Vancouver’s Cypress Mountain, searching for one face in the crowd. From the moment she locked eyes with American Jake Welch, her fiancée of six months, the 23-year-old seemed transformed. ..... (from the article)
What can I say, she IS a doll and she IS in love.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Girl's Night Out
Tauna hosted GNO last night. So much fun as always! I love going to each other's homes and being pampered. Her table was beautifully set. You can see our little gift of a candle diffuser by each place setting.
The food was fresh and delicious. Santa Rosa Chicken Salad....
a wonderful spinach salad with poppy seed dressing....
fresh fruit with a key lime dressing....
and I had forgotten about these yummy, EASY bar cookies called Graham Gems. Three ingredients!
Who says prayers aren't answered? Oh, happy day!
Love these girlfriends! Love happy days!
fresh fruit with a key lime dressing....
and I had forgotten about these yummy, EASY bar cookies called Graham Gems. Three ingredients!
All recipes will be posted later today on the cooking blog.
Entertainment was looking for Brendalyn's contact that disappeared. We looked forever...and the find was a miraculous experience. I should have taken a picture...but after searching EVERYWHERE (they are hard contacts and cost about a hundred dollars).....I decided to go through the candy bowls again. As I reached for two bowls, my eye caught the third (all the candy bowls had already been through) (as well as the whole table undressed, Brendalyn undressed, carpet combed, furniture moved, etc.) bowl full of hot tamales. I instinctively reach for the bowl...and there was the contact, stuck on the end of a hot tamale!
Who says prayers aren't answered? Oh, happy day!
Love these girlfriends! Love happy days!
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