Barn Party

We got invited to go to a Barn Party at one of my friends' parents house. It was way more fun than I thought it would be. DH couldn't go because he had to work late, but Aunt Andrea came along with us. When we got there, the kids got to go on a hay ride, which was being pulled by a tractor out to a pumpkin patch. They each got to pick out their own pumpkin, and of course T picked one so big he could barely hold it. Then they hopped back on the trailor and went to the barn. They each got to paint their pumpkins. We have very fun and unusual pumpkins to put on our porch! After that the kids got to dig through the straw for prizes. They got candy, halloween toys, and all sorts of other fun things.
For dinner we had sloppy joes and root beer (which were provided), and then the rest was potluck. There was chips and dip, jello salad, pasta salad, green salad, bean dip, cowboy cavier, brownies, cookies, cupcakes, and the yummiest carmel corn!! I asked for the recipe because it was so good. When the kids were done eating, they went on more hay rides while the adults finished their dinner and listened to some cowboy poetry.

After all the rides were done, the kids played some relay games and then they had a pumpkin pinata. We got loaded with candy and it's not even Halloween yet. We finished the night off doing the Hokey Pokey. It was a lot of fun. I really think the kids enjoyed the evening.

We were so full of dust when we got home, so every got all soaped up and squeaky clean. Now they are all tucked soundly in their beds!! What a fun night. I'm sad DH had to miss it and hope it won't be too much longer until he gets home tonight.

Pumpkin Crunch

Last night we had some friends over for dessert and games. We played Wizard, which is one of our favorites, and we ate Pumpkin Crunch. My sister Anna gave me this recipe a long time ago, and it is so YUMMY!! Now that Fall is here, it's the perfect time for this dessert.

1 lg. can pumpkin
1 yellow cake mix
3 eggs
1 c. sugar
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
1 can evaporated milk
2 cubes butter, melted
nuts (optional)
cool whip

Mix together pumpkin, eggs, sugar, cinnamon and milk. Pou into a 9x13 cake pan. Sprinkle yellow cake mix on top. Sprinkle nuts if desired. Spoon melted butter over entire cake. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hr. Let cool completely. Top with cool whip & enjoy!

Gratitude Day ~ Take 7

I'm grateful for:

~Warm cookies with milk
~Fall
~Generosity from members of my ward
~Peaceful, quiet evenings
~Game nights with friends
~A home-cooked meal
~The opportunity to serve
~Cuddly, sleepy kids
~The saying, "Mommy, I love you!"
~A hard-working husband
~My husband who is my best friend
~A good sense of humor
~The scent of cinnamon in my home
~Food storage
~Visiting teachers
~The sound of children playing nicely

We all have many things in our lives to be grateful for, let us try to always count our blessings and have an attitude of gratitude in our hearts.

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings; name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done. …
So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged; God is over all.
Count your many blessings; angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
(Hymns, 1985, no. 241.)

Gratitude Day - Take 6

I have a lot that I feel grateful about. I am soo soo grateful for my health. The last 3 weeks, have been really tough for me and finally on Monday I started feeling better. I hate when I'm sick. I didn't feel like doing anything; cooking, cleaning, playing, talking on the phone, going anywhere, even thinking was an effort. It was no fun at all. I think it really had an effect on my kids behavior. This week they have been so much better, which has been so nice. I finally feel like myself again, and I'm grateful for that.

I'm also grateful for the generosity of people in my ward. I've been able to get a lot of canning done for my food storage, and it was all free. It is so nice that there are people willing to give; willing to share.

I'm grateful that S had a good day at school. He's been having a little bit of trouble lately, but today was good! Sometimes I wonder how I'm doing as a mother, especially when my kids act out. It makes me wonder if I'm doing something wrong or if I'm just not cut out for the job. And then, when S came home and the teacher had told me that there were no problems it gave me a little glimpse of hope that maybe, just maybe I'm doing something right. So, I'm so grateful he had a "good" day today!

I'm grateful for the teachers that my children have, and who are willing to give them an education. The teachers they have really care about my kids, and I think that makes a huge difference. They love learning and are excited to go to school, which I know is due to the fact that they have caring teachers who make learning fun. I'm also grateful for the primary teachers who teach my kids. They have learned a lot from their teachers and they remember the things they've been taught.

I'm also grateful to know that I can serve others in return for the service they've given me. Being on the receiving side of service is very humbling. I know that there are people who need help, and I hope that there might be some way for me to assist in doing that.

How can I stop? I could go on and on. But, I guess I'll save some for next week!

The depth and the willingness with which we serve is a direct reflection of our gratitude. ~Gordon T. Watts (Nov. 1998 Ensign)

Canning

I've spent the last couple of days canning, which means I'm finally feeling better!! Someone in our ward has 2 huge apple trees, and some grape vines. They had used all that they wanted and offered the rest to whoever was willing to come and pick them. I had some friends who really wanted to do grape juice. We each got 7 quarts of concord grape juice, and 3 white grape juice. I'm excited to try the white grape juice. I've had the concord and it's so so YUMMY! It was really easy to do too, just time consuming.

Then, my friend Kendra wanted to do apples with me, so we spent the last 2 days doing apple pie filling. This is also very easy and very useful. It makes quick apple pie, apple crisp, or you can warm it and use it as an ice cream topping. So delicious!

There are still tons of apples and I hate to see them go to waste. I have all the jars, lids, and everything it takes to can, so really I'm getting free food storage. I think if I decide not to be lazy I might do some applesauce. J has decided that it's her new favorite food. She would eat it for every meal, if I let her. So, it's probably worth it do go and do it. Plus, I've heard that it's also easy to do.

Then, there's the plum tree that they have. I think I'll probably do plum jam, it's one of my favorites. I remember growing up we always had plum jam, and I loved it. My dad would eat it right out of the jar; I would never do that, but I do love it on my toast or on sandwiches. Seems to me that I still have a lot of work cut out for myself. But, since I didn't do any canning at the beginning of the season it's okay. I'm sure I will be glad I did it when we use all the yummy food!

I can't say "NO"

I don't know what is wrong with me, but for some reason, I think the word no is not in my vocabulary (that is when asked to do or help with something). However if you asked my kids, all I do is say no, which is not true. Anyways, on my way to story time this afternoon with J and S I got a call from the school. My immediate thought was that something was wrong with one of the kids. I was wrong. It was the principal asking me if I would be willing to serve on the School Community Council. I of course said, "Sure", while thinking to myself why, oh why, just say no. But did I? I just couldn't. So, my plan to help at school here and there, has now switched to being on the council. I wonder how this will go.

September Birthdays

Once a month we get together with DH's family to celebrate birthdays and have dinner. This month our nephew Ean turned 1, and DH's sister Kristy turned 34. We had dinner and then opened gifts. We always pick a theme for our dinner. This month was chinese food. It's one of our favorites. We had Kung Pao Chicken over white rice, lettuce wraps, chicken and beef egg rolls, and Sweet -n- Sour Chicken. It was so so yummy! We've had soup night, mexican night, salads, bbq, and tons more. We love doing this, it's so fun. And, it's nice to be able to celebrate everyone who has a birthday that month, so we don't miss out! We also had cake and ice cream! It's not a party if there's no dessert, right?

The kids enjoy being able to get together with their cousins. Kristy and her family just moved back from Virginia and the kids all missed them so much. T and cousin Jalen get along really well. They are 2 years apart, but are the oldest boys, so they have a lot in common, and I think they look a lot alike. It's fun to see that even though they were away for a year and half, that they can just pick up where they left.

It's so chaotic, but so fun. The family just keeps growing and growing, so there is always a lot of commotion. Luckily for us, we all seem to get along very well and always have a great time!

Blessing on the Food

Yesterday we were together with DH's family for dinner. His mom asked him to say the blessing on the food. We had 15 kids and 8 adults, so it took us a couple minutes to quiet everyone down. S was kind of wiggly and was whispering to everyone so DH said, "S, sit down and fold your arms." He obeyed right away and then immediately said the blessing on the food. It was the cutest thing. We were just waiting for DH to say the prayer when everyone was quiet and then S just started saying it. When he was done, he looked up at us with a huge smile and starting eating. It was so precious!

Our Saturday

We've had a very busy Saturday. T had a friend sleep over last night and they got up early early and ruined my plans of sleeping in.

At mid-morning we went to T's football game. He got to be the quarterback and was very excited about that. He did a pretty good job at it too! It was 46 degrees during his game with a wind chill and rain. We froze. S of course found the mud and fell in it, so I had to run him home during the middle of the game to get him some dry clothes so he wouldn't freeze to death. They didn't win but they had a good time. Then, we all came home and had hot chocolate!!

We had to run to Wal-Mart for a few things for tomorrow's dinner. The kids all had some money and wanted to spend it. J picked out some play-doh which they spent a long time playing with this afternoon. S got a car that was one of the characters from Fantastic 4. M picked out some pink, sparkly earrings, and T got a candy bar. It was a very successful trip to Wal-Mart.

When we got home from Wal-Mart, we had to hurry and change so we could go to a baptism. One of the kids friends was getting baptized. It was very nice and the spirit was felt so strong there. I was glad that we went and were able to feel the spirit and carry it with us for the rest of the day.

My niece came to visit and had dinner with us, which some of my friends had brought in. It was so yummy: chicken lasagna, salad, and french bread! Then, J and I made brownies. She is my little cook, and of course licking the mixer is her favorite part.

Now, we are waiting for DH to get home so we can go have brownies and ice cream with one of his co-workers and his family. The kids will probably fall asleep on the way there since it is already 8:30 p.m., but they really want us to come. We were supposed to go over last Saturday, but instead I had much better plans and went to the hospital :( We should have a good time though. I've never met them, but it's always fun to meet new people. I'm pretty sure that by the time we tuck everyone into bed tonight they will all be exhausted and hopefully sleep well, I know I will!

Gratitude Day - Take 5

I totally forgot about gratitude day. I missed last week because it was my 100th blog day, so I had to do that. This week I'm very grateful for friends and family who have supported me and helped me. Whatever this virus is that I have is really kicking my butt. I have no energy and have a constant stomach and head ache. I've had some meals brought in and have had help with my kids. The kids have also been really good. They have been behaving so well, which is nice because I've needed to be able to relax and take it easy. DH has also been very helpful and supportive. I hope this goes away soon, I'm ready for my energy to come back and to feel like myself again. But, I truly am grateful for all the help that I've had. I've really needed it this week!

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. "- Melody Beattie

Cini Mini's

I got this yummy recipe from Stephanie at For Better or Worse. They looked so delicious, I had to try them right away. YUMMY!! For some reason, these were so much easier to make than "regular" cinnamon rolls. They were simple and so good. I'm a lover of cream cheese, so I made a cream cheese frosting instead.

Frosting:
1 pkg. cream cheese, softened

1/2 cube butter, softened

2 tsp. vanilla

2 c. powdered sugar

Mix all ingredients together until creamy.

I frosted the cini mini's right out of the oven, so the frosting would melt into all the little cracks!! So good.

Thanks Stephanie!

E-Coli

On the news last night they said that there has been a break out of E-Coli in the U.S. that is coming from spinach, particularly bagged spinach. Fifty people have come down with it, 11 of which are in Utah, 1 man has died from it, and 8 have kidney failure. The FDA is putting out a warning too. So, DO NOT eat spinach for a while.

Today's Mail

Today in the mail I got something from the U.S. Department of Justice. This is probably the 7th or 8th letter I've gotten saying that I've been the victim of identity fraud. I have no idea what it is. Nothing negative has happened to any of my accounts, my credit, or anything else. It's so weird. I'm not sure if I should be worried about it and call to find out what is going on, or if I should keep ignoring it like I have been. Probably ignoring it isn't the smartest thing to do. Maybe I'll call tomorrow and see what this is all about.

J's in Preschool

The long awaited day for preschool to start finally arrived. J has been waiting and waiting. Every night before she went to bed she would lay her clothes out and tell me that she was ready for preschool to start in the morning. I had to tell her over and over that preschool wasn't starting yet. So, last night when she was picking out her clothes, I told her that in the morning she got to go to preschool. She was so excited, her eyes just lit up.

We got ready this morning and headed off. The kids start school at 8:25 and I thought preschool started at 8:30, so we just waited in the hall. I saw J's teacher and she looked surprised to see us. She asked why we were so early and I just kind of looked at her and said well, we only have to wait five minutes. She said, "Honey we start at 9:00." What a dork am I? So, I told J we could go home (we only live about 2 minutes from the school) and come back in half an hour. She started crying and saying that she wanted to go to preschool. So, we waited there. We walked the halls, stopped in the office to say hi to the secretary who we love, peaked into M's class, talked to T's teacher, and then finally it was time to start!

When we got there, she just marched right in like she owned the place. I thought she might be a tiny bit nervous, but boy was I wrong. She was so glad to be there. When I picked her up she told me about how wonderful it was and all about what they did. And to top it all off, she got to eat "colorful animal cookies" for her snack!! I'm so glad we had such a good first day.

WFMW - Baby Wipes

When my kids got out of diapers, I thought yeah no more money on diapers or wipes! However, I still find myself buying wipes. I always keep them in my car for unexpected spills. They are also useful for messy faces, runny noses, sticky fingers, or any other such mess. May seem simple, but it works for me!

How we judge our days!

My sweet S is in Kindergarten and loves it so much. He has so much fun going, and is excited about the things he is learning. However, sometimes he is a little aggressive. He had a few problems with pushing and hitting the first couple of days (like I said he's so sweet). So, every morning while we are driving to school I remind him of what good behavior is and what he needs to do. Then I ask him if we are going to have a good day. His answer is always, "Yes!" Now when I go to pick him up, the first thing he says to me is, "Mom, I had a good day! I didn't hit or punch or kick or pinch or push!" He's so proud of himself and I'm glad he's catching on to how he needs to act. So, if there is no hitting or pushing or kicking or anything of the sort, we've had a good day!

Have You Forgotten?

I can't believe that it's been 5 years since 9/11. So much has happened, but I will never forget that day. I was in my sons' room, who was 3 at the time, laying in bed with him just playing and enjoying the morning. My 2 year old daughter had just come in and my 4 month old was sleeping. I heard the phone ring and DH answered it and then called me from the other room and said, "You better get in here." I took my time coming in with the kids hanging all over me. He was in the living room with the t.v. on and had a very shocked looked on his face. It was my mom who had called to tell us to turn on the news. I saw a plane crash into a building and just stared. I asked what was going on. He couldn't even answer me. We just stood there in shock. How could this happen? Why did this happen? Who did this? And the questions just kept coming.

As the day went on I realized more and more the depth and devastation of this event. So many people lost loved ones. Everyone's lives would be forever changed by this. I remember at that very moment how grateful I was for the things that I have. I was so relieved that my family was safe, and yet I felt guilty for feeling that way because there were so many whose family members were taken away from them. It makes you count your blessings.

I am so grateful for the many brave men and women who are fighting for our freedom. And who are sacrificing their time and their lives for us. My brother-in-law is in Iraq for his 2nd year and I see the sacrifice that not only he is making but that his wife and children are making. This war effects people everywhere and in all aspects.

I remember DH wishing that he was in New York to volunteer. He talked about being there week after week and wanted to be there to help in any way he could. I hope that my boys will grow up and have a strong sense of loyalty for our country, and that if need be they will be willing to help.

The amount of damage done was unspeakable. I fear that the damage is not done, and that we have much more to face. I hope and pray that we will continue to have people who will stand up and fight for our country.

I remember. I have not forgotten.

Have You Forgotten?

I hear people saying we don't need this war
I say there's some things worth fighting for
What about our freedom and this piece of ground?
We didn't get to keep 'em by backing down
They say we don't realize the mess we're getting in
Before you start preaching
Let me ask you this my friend

Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire
And her people blown away?
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside
Going through a living hell
And you say we shouldn't worry 'bout Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

They took all the footage off my T.V.
Said it's too disturbing for you and me
It'll just breed anger that's what the experts say
If it was up to me I'd show it every day
Some say this country's just out looking for a fight
After 9/11 man I'd have to say that's right

Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire
And her people blown away?
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside
Going through a living hell
And you say we shouldn't worry 'bout Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

I've been there with the soldiers
Who've gone away to war
And you can bet they remember
Just what they're fighting for

Have you forgotten all the people killed?
Some went down like heroes in that Pennsylvania field
Have you forgotten about our Pentagon?
All the loved ones that we lost
And those left to carry on
Don't you tell me not to worry about Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

Have you forgotten?
Have you forgotten?

-Darryl Worley

We pray each and every day for the soldiers who are out fighting for our country and for our freedom. Let's be united in this effort to bring our troops home! Let us never forget what happened that tragic day when so many lost their lives.

For more 9/11 memories go to Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer

Viral Infection

I've been feeling sick off and on for the last couple of weeks. Sometimes with a headache or a stomachache or sometimes both. I just didn't really think anything of it. Yesterday however I got really bad. I probably had the worst headache I've ever had. My eyes were extremely sensitive to the light. My stomach was hurting and I was so so tired. I've never been a paranoid person, but I sure got that way yesterday.

I've had about 50 bug bites in the last couple of weeks, and West Nile Virus has been on my mind a lot because it's being talked about all over the place. There have been several cases of it right here where I live. I thought if anyone was going to get it, it would be. Those darn mosquitos like my blood for some strange reason.

So, I decided to look up the symptoms of West Nile. I had all of them. I also had a lot of symptoms for meningitis. I called my brother (who is a dr.) and asked him what he thought I should do. He said I should go to the doctor and have it checked out. That's when I started to freak out. How could I be sick right now? I have four young kids to take care of. What if it was serious and I had to be paralyzed? I don't have insurance right now, how am I going to pay for all this? And the questions kept coming and coming and so did the fear and the tears. Now, as I've said before I don't usually freak out and I certainly was this time, which made me mad at myself. But, I was just so darn sick, I hated it.

I called DH at work and he figured out a way to leave and get home. When he got home, he got the neighbor to come over and give me a blessing. After my blessing we headed to the hospital. After a cat scan, vitals, a blown vein, an IV, phenergan, and staydol (don't know the spelling on either of those) they told us that it was nothing serious, just a virus attacking my body. I was so relieved that it was just that, but now I feel like a total lame person for freaking out like that. The medicine they gave me at about 3:00 yesterday helped me feel better and I slept for the rest of the day. I did get up for a short 1/2 hour, but was worn out afterwards. I slept the rest of the evening and all night, all the way until about 9:00 this morning. I think I really need that rest. When I woke up this morning I felt much better, but I still have a stomachache and a slight headache. I don't know how long this will last, hopefully not too long. We never were even told exactly what I had, but that all we could do was to treat the symptoms even if it was West Nile.

So, it's lots of rest (yeah, with 4 kids that's a possibility), pain pills, and nausea medicine. DH has been really supportive and helpful through the whole thing, which I appreciate more than words can express. The kids have been so sweet too. They keep asking if I'm okay or coming in to rub my head and give me little kisses here and there. We've had a pleasant day without a lot of commotion. I really hope this passes quickly so we can resume our usual way of life.

100th Blog

I can't believe I made it to my 100th blog! When I first started blogging, I read several 100th blogs, and thought man it'll be a long time before I get there. Well, here I am, and here are 100 random things/thoughts about me:
1. I love the color pink
2. I can't wait for the Amazing Race to start
3. I love to scrapbook
4. Dancing has always been a favorite hobby
5. I really wish I could lose weight
6. I want to go back to school
7. Being a mom has been the most wonderful thing I've ever done
8. Being a mom has also been the most trying thing I've ever done
9. Having a hysterectomy at the age of 27 has really changed my perspective in life
10. I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful family
11. I love my DH more than I could ever express
12. I love each of my 4 wonderful children
13. I love the show "Friends"
14. I've always wanted to be a nurse
15. I love to read
16. Someday I want to travel
17. I miss my family
18. I'm thankful for the gospel
19. I feel so blessed to have the priesthood in my home
20. I often wonder how we will overcome all our trials
21. Sometimes it's to be positive, but I try
22. I'm the Enrichment Leader in our ward
23. I hope to be able to raise children who will stay strong in the gospel
24. DH has more clothes than me
25. I have more shoes than he does, but whenever I'm home I like to be barefoot
26. Desserts are my weakness
27. Actually all food is my weakness
28. I really enjoy swimming and wish we had a pool
29. I enjoy cooking
30. I love veggies fresh from the garden
31. I like to color or cut my hair often
32. I'm glad my sisters and my neice live so close
33. I'm thankful for my temple marriage
34. DH and I will be celebrating our 10th anniversary in Dec.
35. Time goes by so fast and can't believe I don't have babies anymore
36. I'm striving to live so I can return to our Heavenly Father
37. DH and I love playing games
38. I love to laugh
39. I've never been good at sitting still
40. I can't whistle
41. I wish I had a beautiful singing voice, but that doesn't stop me from singing
42. I also wish I would've stuck with piano lessons when I was young
43. After being married I've learned how to enjoy watching sports
44. DH and I play on a co-ed softball team
45. Soccer season is so busy for us
46. I'm finally understanding the Scouting program
47. Being a gospel doctrine teacher would scare me to death
48. I love the smell of fresh baked bread, clean laundry, and newborn babies
49. I love the beach
50. I remember camping every summer growing up and would love to carry that tradition on
51. I need to take a computer class
52. I enjoy making jewelry
53. I just learned how to make picture frames
54. I'm very insecure about myself
55. I hate confrontation
56. The smell of cigarettes makes me sick
57. I love surprises
58. Stargazer Lilies are my favorite flower ~ they were in my bouquet
59. I always wanted a tree house growing up
60. I hope my kids will have fond memories from their childhood
61. I'm grateful for the missionary program
62. Although I loved my wedding, my sister Anna's was so so beautiful
63. I like to get my nails done
64. Seeing my kids happy can cheer me up in an instant
65. I wish I was more patient
66. I hate the fact that I have to take medicine everyday for the rest of my life
67. I can't wait to buy a home all of our own
68. I've always wanted to swim with the dolphins
69. I love purses
70. I enjoy volunteering in the kids' classes
71. Maybe I could be a teacher some day
72. I want to learn how to ski
73. I'd like to go to a really classy, expensive restaurant
74. I love blogging
75. I want the game Zobmondo
76. I have about 15 pairs of flip flops and think I still need more
77. I wish I was more athletic
78. I've danced in the rain
79. I'm so grateful I found true love
80. If you trust in the Lord, I believe all things are possible
81. I would've been a horrible pioneer
82. I'm grateful for Joseph Smith and all he endured for us
83. I'm running out of things to write
84. I like a clean house
85. I like taking pictures even though I'm not a great photographer
86. Money isn't the key to happiness
87. Trials make us stronger
88. I love parties
89. I want a tummy tuck
90. My favorite trait about myself are my eyes
91. I'm glad I have a happy marriage
92. Communication is so important
93. I'd love to go on a church history tour
94. My family is my life
95. I'm thankful for the promises of eternal life
96. I'd love to go on a cruise
97. I pierced my belly button in college, but then got smart and took it out
98. I'm glad I never got a tatoo
99. Friends are good thing to have
100. I can't believe I made it to 100!!

Surprisingly Yummy Banana Squash Soup

I got a huge banana squash from my friend and wasn't quite sure what to do with all of it. I turned to the internet for help and found this yummy recipe. We loved it!

2-1/2 lbs. banana squash
4 Tbs. olive oil
3 Tbs. butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves minced garlic
2-1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
sour cream

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Quarter and seed banana squash. Rub inside with 4 tablespoons olive oil and bake in a baking dish until tender, about 30 minutes. Insert a fork to test for doneness. When done, set aside and allow to cool.
In a pot melt 3 tablespoons butter and saute 1 medium diced yellow onion. As onion is sauteeing, scrape flesh from the banana squash and place into pot with onion. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for a few minutes. Add 2-1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth to pot and simmer for 30 minutes.
Place soup mixture into a food processor and puree until smooth; return to pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a drop of sour cream for extra flavor if desired. Serve hot.
Servings: 3

All Alone

Here I am sitting in my quiet house, all alone. It is a very weird feeling. T, M, and S are all at school. My sister came over this morning to get J. So everyone is gone except me. You would think I'd be excited, but strangely I'm not. My house is clean, laundry is already going, dishes done, don't need a nap, so what is there left to do? I guess I could go workout or read a book.

So, what will I do next year when J goes to Kindergarten? I know that I will have to do something. I'm not any good at just sitting. I've thought about going back to school. I love school!! I need to finish my degree, so maybe I'll do that. Or, I've thought about working for the school part time. My friend did that and she was done working by the time Kindergarten got out. That way I'd be home with J for the rest of the day. I guess I have a year to figure it out, but whatever I do, I know that I won't be able to just sit here alone all day every day, I'd go crazy.

Works for Me Wednesday - Morning Scripture Reading

We've had a really hard time trying to figure out when the best time to read scriptures is. We tried before bedtime, after homework, at dinner, none of which seemed to work. Now we read to the kids while they are eating breakfast. This way DH is still home and gets to be involved, whereas before it was hit and miss if he was home. We aren't too tired to read, or we don't have all of the days activities to discuss, or any other distractions. The kids listen and they are even remembering what we read. It is a much more pleasant scripture reading time then we've ever had. Works for me!

Bennion Creek

Yesterday after church we went up the canyon to Bennion. We had some friends who were camping there for the weekend and invited us up. DH had to work, so we couldn't camp, but we did get to spend some time there. We took the kids for a little hike up the side of the mountain. It didn't look too bad at the beginning, but as we got around the corner, it was quite steep. The kids all did well, including little J who brought Dora along. Afterwards we just hung around talking and playing games. Then we barbequed. We each brought our own meat, but when it actually got down to eating, everyone just had whatever. It was so nice because everyone was willing to share and pitch in where needed. We put up a sheet on the side of one of the campers and the kids watched a movie and drank hot chocolate. Then we all just sat around the campfire. It was a nice evening just out in nature enjoying the simple things in life.

DH had to work today and the kids really wanted to go back up the canyon. I wasn't too sure I wanted to all by myself, but ended up giving in. I'm really glad I did because we all had a great time. It was really kick back. The kids all played down by the pond for a long time, while the women played cards and the men went shooting. When we were getting ready to go this morning, I thought to myself bring extra clothes. Did I listen? Oh no, I gave the kids way more credit than I should have. Maybe an hour or two of being up there and they all came back soaking wet. I remember specifically telling them just to take their shoes off and roll up their pants so they wouldn't get wet. Really it's my own fault. Everyone else was wet too. We rounded up shorts, p.j.'s, dirty jeans, and our own sweatshirts to change in to. They did however take their shoes and socks off before getting wet, so they did have dry feet! Oh well, that's what camping is for, right? Wet clothes, dirty faces, muddy hands, lots and lots of laundry, filthy car, lots of cleanup, and happy kids! Who could ask for a better day?!?

Family Birthday Celebration

Today one of the kids' cousins got baptized. She was so excited to be baptized. It's such an exciting time for these little 8 year olds. She was baptized and confirmed by her dad.

After the baptism, we all met together at a park for a picnic and birthday party. Every month we get together to celebrate birthdays. We missed August because 3 of us moved, school was starting, and life was just busy. So, today we celebrated 5 birthdays. We had some family down from Idaho visiting so we included Grandma B., she turned 81 yesterday! M turned 12 and entered YW, S turned 8 & just got baptized, J and C both turned 4 only five days apart and are both getting so so big. We had lots of presents to open and lots of excited people! We had huckleberry cheesecake for dessert. This is one of our favorites! It is so yummy!

It was really nice to get to see our family from Idaho. We all had a great time, and can't wait until we get to do it again. And still my camera is being repaired so, no pictures :(.

Gratitude Day - Take 4

I've been so so busy this week. We've been on the go non-stop. So, today I'm grateful for:

- a good night's rest
- a day that I can be lazy for an hour
- a supportive and helpful husband
- a great enrichment committee
- a good turnout at enrichment
- kids who enjoyed their first week of sports
- my sister who comes to watch the kids when they ask her to
- Friday

"Whatever I am offered in devotion with a pure heart -- a leaf, a flower, fruit, or water -- I accept with joy." - Bhagavad Gita