Joyful Noise

Aarrrgh Matey!

2012-02-13T23:54:00.003-06:00

Bryce is 5. Pirate Party complete with treasure hunt and eye patches.

Gavin turned 3!

2012-02-06T17:14:00.002-06:00

Look Whooo had an owl party

December

2011-12-22T17:04:00.002-06:00

Mickey Pancakes

The Polar Express conductor

Sherpa Hat at Target

Christmas Cards and Crafts

Happy Fall!

2011-10-31T09:40:00.003-05:00

We went to a pumpkin patch complete with a hay-maze, pony rides, and a team of horses pulling a covered wagon. I only got a picture on the stationary stage coach, but on the wagon ride the driver let Bryce and Gavin take the reigns until Gavin almost steered us into the ditch!

Lake Powell July 2011

2011-07-29T16:27:00.003-05:00

Remember last year's Lake Powell Video by my awesome
brother-in-law, Adam? Drum roll please...Here's 2011!

Lake Powell Eleven from Adam DeVincent on Vimeo.

2011-07-15T18:33:00.005-05:00

Bike Parade on the 4th at our Church.

Bryce kept asking when the "bike race" was going to start. I reminded him, "Its not a race. It's a parade. You ride your bike and wave at the people." When it was time to start, he was head down pedaling as fast as he could. Clearly, still a race in his mind. Probably around lap 19, his cans got wound up in his wheels.

Later, the best way to stay cool....the Grace's pool.

After a couple times down with Dad, Gavin was flying solo.

I love Mariah's little tutu.

Bryce trying out the kickboard for extra speed.

The famous Wedgie RockI love the Dads with their Babies.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T08:16:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone is staying cool, and has fun plans for the day. We're headed to red, white, and blue pancake breakfast at our Church (strawberries, blueberries, and whip cream). Yum! Following breakfast they're having a bike parade. Last night we decorated the kids bikes. So we'll be sure to get pictures of that.

In the mean time enjoy pictures from Bryce and Gavin's swim lessons. It was Gavin's first swim lesson, so he cried for the first two days, then ended up really liking it. Bryce loved it from the get-go. He had been looking forward to it for months. He's actually a good little diver.

At the end, there's a picture of Jimmy opening some presents from his recent birthday.

Happy Father's Day & Anniversary

2011-06-21T02:41:00.005-05:00

Dear Jimmy - you're a great dad! It's been seven great years. Happy anniversary, and we love you!

Trips

2011-06-13T17:41:00.004-05:00

Two more from St. George.

Hunington Beach, CA.

Post from a long lost elementary friend on Facebook

2011-06-07T11:03:00.002-05:00

This morning I received this message on facebook. You can see why it totally made my day!

Naomi:

Hey Brooke!

I don't know if you remember me. This is Naomi (last name withheld since my blog isn't private), from Provost elementary school. Anyway, I know this is TOTALLY random but I just wanted you to know that you really influenced my life for the positive when we were growing up. At a time when I was really sick, lonely, chubby, and awkward, you were always kind to me. I specifically remember a time when a bunch of girls were going out for recess to play kickball and they told me I couldn't come. You stood up for me and invited me to come play with you. Your kindness impressed me so much, and meant so much to me that I even named my first daughter Brooklyn because of you! So I guess what I'm trying to say is Thank you! I know its like 15 years late, but seriously, Thank you! and have a great day!

Naomi

Memorial Day in St. George

2011-05-31T11:28:00.003-05:00

Saturday, bright and early Jimmy, Scott and & Brian went golfing. After, we enjoyed swimming and pizza.

We packed a lot in. After lunch, we went on a nature walk to a natural slip-n-slide.

Sunday, we went to Church. Then, had another "faith" promoting experience, of sorts. Seeing who could make their way through the crack canyon.

Monday, we stopped in Vegas for lunch at In-n-Out. Then took the boys to see the fountain show at the Bellagio.

Preschool Graduation

2011-05-27T12:12:00.001-05:00

This was so darling. I wasn't expecting them to wear cap and gowns!

Little things

2011-05-20T23:37:00.005-05:00

I hope all the special women in my life had a wonderful Mother's day as I did. Thanks to all the sweet boys around here I enjoyed breakfast in bed, home-made cards with handprints, red roses, and a present. I couldn't have asked for a nicer day.

Today, I procured 2 new vases and a pillow. I love little things that freshen up a room. Recently, I also finished our portraits. In the kitchen, I spontaneously decided took the kids side-walk chalk and wrote a favorite quote on the wall. "Daily family life is filled with opportunities to extend love and mercy."

p.s. that's the table and my dad and Jimmy built for me for my birthday. I love it.

Sing it out with Joyful Noise!

2011-04-25T22:15:00.005-05:00

Happy Easter!

We had a 2-day celebration. Saturday we had an Easter-Egg hunt at our clubhouse. Then we saw the newly hatched chickens at my Aunt and Uncle's house. After lunch, we dyed eggs. Later that night, Jimmy and I went to the Mesa Temple Easter Pageant.

Sunday, we opened our Easter Baskets. Bryce gave a talk in church on the Resurrection. I made the boys bow-ties for Church. Bryce called them "boy-ties" - and he did not want to wear his. Then we had a delicious dinner with our friends, the Webbs. This is the second Easter dinner we've had with them. Maybe a new little tradition.We brought Bunny Buns, Angel Food cake, and green salad.

Waiting on the stairs to see what the bunny brought us.

Gavin's Basket

Jimmy's new shoes - its been 4 years since he's a new pair.

All tuckered out.

Fun Things for Spring!

2011-04-14T17:09:00.005-05:00

Our Home Association put on a Block Party with ColdStone Ice cream, DJ, & Bouncy Slide. Here's the boys relaxing in the spa.

Conference Weekend we dyed Easter Eggs

Aren't these Ranunculus sweet? April was my turn to host Book Club, so I had an excuse to buy a bouquet of flowers, and use my pink-striped paper straws.

Hello baby bird.

In our front yard, we have gravel - desert landscape, which needs to be raked or groomed. I was out raking because the weathers nice. When all of sudden A bird flapped out of our small tree, almost knocking me in the head, and flew haphazardly across the street. I in confusion, turned around to see where the bird had come from, to be completely surprised to find a newly hatched baby bird fallen to the ground. I had no idea we had a nest in our seriously little tree. I had to rescue it – but how? I called mom, like I do whenever I don't know what to do. She told me to get a paper towel and gently use it to pick him up and put him back in the nest. Then stop raking and go inside, so the mom will come back. I did what she said, and put him back in the nest with his brother. Gavin and I watched through the window and sure enough before Bryce was home from preschool the mom flew back. A couple weeks later I took this picture when I saw the momma bird take 5. Right now, Bryce and I are wrestling over the computer rights, and I kinda want to fly off for a minute. I do love spring, though.

2011-04-11T17:56:00.009-05:00

***Happy Birthday Brittany & Mom! I love you guys. It was so fun seeing my family a few weeks ago, in yet another California trip. Here's the packing the car stage.

We didn't make it far...just the loving town of Quartzite AZ, where we watched BYU in the NCAA sweet 16 game. (Bummer Jimmer got Jimmered.)

The Grubstake - the only place in town with the game on. Maybe the place with a t.v. The fish n' chips were good.

Nice family friendly accommodations.

Bar tender, pass me another one!

Ahh, finally the beach, and Grandma!

Uncle Bones too.

After soaking up the rays, we needed refreshment from the Oceanside DQ.

Mmmm Blizzard, and Avery Sue's cheeks. I want them both right now!

A little of this, and a little of that

2011-03-21T16:28:00.004-05:00

Today, I went by Ribbons and Lace to pick these up for my sister.

The frost a month ago, killed almost all my plants leaving me with a stick garden. But thankfully these beauties survived and are the only bright spot in our yard.

The duck pond and playground

Oompa, Loompa hand. No I did not know he was doing this. When I went to go check out how is painting was going, I found him intently working on his hand painting.

Mom's Visit

2011-03-13T11:26:00.002-05:00

Jimmy had to go to San Antonio for a work conference. While he was scoping out the Alamo, and eating on the company's expense, we had two Grandma's come to visit. My mom and my Grandma escaped the snow, and instead ate snow cones with us. Below, Grandma Leslee gave us an early Easter Present. We had so much fun, we miss you already!

Bryce is 4!

2011-02-15T23:28:00.009-06:00

Just as my Mom did for us, I had the table set with presents the night before. The morning of his birthday, Bryce woke up and came down to my room and asked me for "milk and a show" like he does every morning. I said okay, but didn't move out of bed while I tried to wake up. Then I heard him walk into the kitchen and say, "Whoa!" Then I proceed to hear paper ripping. I hustled out of bed. Luckily it was a card, and not his entire stack of presents opened. I got him his milk and a show, so I could make birthday breakfast. While I was turning on Mickey Mouse, Bryce was still checking out the presents on the table. Then I he did the biggest jump he could muster and said, "I can jump even higher, now that I'm four. I bet I can jump even higher when I'm five." We spread the fun, by opening some presents after breakfast, some in the afternoon over phone calls and Skype. Finally, we had his "big birthday dinner" he wanted at Chuck E Cheese with our friends, the Webbs. Thank you all for the cards, phone calls, presents and love!

Fun Dip

2011-02-11T15:20:00.003-06:00

Bryce had a fun Valentine party at his preschool. He came home with lots of candy, but he was nice enough to divvy some out. The Fun Dips were the Valentines he passed out, I hid the extra 10 packets. But those kids have sniffer for candy...we'll see how long they stay hidden.

Gavin turned 2!

2011-02-06T17:21:00.017-06:00

Tuesday we went to the zoo with our friends, the Heaps.

February 3rd, the Big Day!

Lots of Skype calls, and presents.

Blue Adobe Grill & Cheesecake Factory

2011-02-02T12:39:00.004-06:00

For my birthday, Jimmy and I and our friends, Brandon and Danielle Webb, ate at the Blue Adobe Grill for the first time. It was really good food, so now we have a new restaurant to go to. Then the next night, some ladies in the ward took me to an oldie-but-goodie, Cheescake Factory. It was fun to stretch my birthday out all weekend.

Sarah, Brooke

Alicia, Vanessa

Red Velvet Cheesecake, and Adam's Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Update!

2011-01-30T21:51:00.003-06:00

We watched our wedding video tonight. Sure enough there was proof that Messers run in the family.

On a different note, Bryce gave is first talk in Primary today. He was very brave and you could understand him as he repeated the words Jimmy said in his ear. His talk was on The scriptures are true. He said that one of his favorite songs is "Scripture Power" and how he likes singing it in with our family before we do family scripture study. He said they make him feel happy. There was more to the talk, I'll have to have Jimmy write it down. I wish I could have taken a picture of those handsome boys up there on the stage!

2 at the Zoo!

2011-01-29T16:22:00.005-06:00

Gavin is turning two next week. So we're celebrating at the zoo. Today, I rounded up the supplies for our picnic and treat bags for when we go. Gavin loves animals and he hasn't been to the zoo yet. Bryce was lucky and got to go all the time since its free in St. Louis. We're excited!

Sometimes they do sleep

2011-01-28T14:35:00.004-06:00

So peaceful. I can't believe Bryce turns 4 this year.

For Christmas, my sister Brenna made this necklace for me. She gave all of our sisters one with their husbands name on it. I thought it would be a cute Valentines present.

Little Messer

2011-01-26T15:48:00.002-06:00

While I was switching out the laundry, Gavin climbed up to the top of his changing station by himself. His hair has a nice sheen from gobs and gobs of Vasiline. There's a picture pretty similar to this, But I'm the little messer with the Desitin on the changing table.

Today I'm grateful for...

2011-01-13T23:34:00.003-06:00

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
Picnics
Canned Utah Peaches
Reading (I'm reading, These is my Words, and its becoming a new favorite)
Gavin saying new words and phrases everyday

Happy January!

2011-01-06T21:52:00.007-06:00

So I have to back up to the middle of December, because my Christmas present came early from my parents! It's big, and its beautiful, and I was totally surprised – even with my cute nephew Lincoln telling me, "We have a surprise for you. But I can't tell you. (Pause.) Okay. It's a piano!"

My sister, Brittany, and I made this garland with the assistance of her Cricut. I might leave it up all year.

12/20 It's beginging to look a lot like Christmas...

2010-12-20T22:19:00.004-06:00

Family visitors
Cookies
Cinnamon Bread
Christmas Concerts
Dyson Vacuum
Wreaths

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-26T18:16:00.009-06:00

Macdonald Thanksgiving Dinner

We've established a new Arizona Turkey tradition. We took (one) of our turkeys to a nearby residence where they roasted it in their 5' deep pit!
The turkey we did a traditional roast starting it with a brine the night before, soaking a cloth in butter and draping it over, and stuffing it with Mom's homemade dressing recipe.

We were delighted with these honored guests: Grandma Beverly, Great Aunt June, newlyweds: Jaime and Scott.

LIttle Interview with Bryce

2010-11-20T21:53:00.002-06:00

Me: If I were a horse, what would my name be?
Bryce: Meat

Me: If you could change the sky any color what would it be?
Bryce: Pink

Me: If you could make any kind of juice what would you make?
Bryce: Lemon-ade

no more ghetto-blaster

2010-11-18T22:26:00.003-06:00

Gavin's eyes lit up at the sound of a large Mack truck driving by our home window. "Daddy!" He had mistaken the large diesel engine for that of Jimmy's 1997 Honda Accord thanks to our Ghettho-blaster muffler. No. It wasn't an upgrade to sound cool; salt had corroded the exhaust system twice. The first time we replaced it. The second time, we shrugged our shoulders. So you can image we felt like we were getting the good end of the deal, (and a little embarrassed) when Jimmy's sister, Missy, offered to switch us for her Honda Pilot for the weekend when visited her in California. Our car was too small to fit the long board we had bought for those learning to surf, and we didn't have surf racks. She also equipped us with sleeping pads and other necessities to make our trip cushy. For these acts alone, we felt her and her husband, Brian's, generosity. But it didn't stop there. As they went about their daily errands, their three kids sat in the back seat. Presumably it was their need of ear-muffs that led to those sweeties coming up with a sneaky plan, that their parents put into action. After our 3-day excursion at the beach, we met back up with Missy, Brian, and their kids. Our Accord was sparkling inside and out. An 8 year-old, 6 year-old and 4 year old – and a few neighbor kids - detailed our car. How cute is that? The major surprise though, should have been so obvious to us, but was so unthinkable that we didn't notice it right away. At their own expense Missy took our car into the shop and had our entire exhaust system replaced and heat-shield tightened. Missy also called 24 other shops looking for one that had the right-sized windshield to try and replace our cracked one. None were in stock except for at one creepy shop in San Bernadino, and for her own safety she apologetically said she didn't go. We can't thank them enough. In fact, Jimmy got to see all the surprises before me, and when he came to show me, my husband looked slightly misty-eyed when he said, "Guess what Brian and Missy have done."

Bountiful Baskets

2010-11-05T12:29:00.002-05:00

Produce Galore! Last Saturday I participated in a co-op agreement that buys fresh produce for super cheep. It's called Bountiful Baskets. Link here. All this for 15 bucks.

Halloween Tuck-in

2010-10-31T23:03:00.002-05:00

I was laying by Bryce at bedtime, and then told him I had to go do some chores. He said. "Okay. Do my plan." This was our little conversation about his bedtime plan:

Bryce said: Mom, go down stairs and do your chores, and then come back and check on me and lie by me.
Me: Okay, but I lie by boys who stay in bed.
Bryce: Oh, it's okay if I do get out of bed, just say in a nice voice," Brycie, what are doing out of bed" and I'll say, "checking on what you're doing" and you say in a nice voice, "Okay. Go back and wait for me in bed." If you forget what to say, just think about it. Okay, Mommy?

Trunk or Treat

2010-10-27T23:06:00.007-05:00

Bryce and his friend, Bailey, who babysits him and Gavin sometimes.

What does a pirate say?

Nandy. (Gavin lingo for candy).

Blue Eyes

2010-10-23T15:10:00.003-05:00

In line at the grocery store, or whenever I'm out with Gavin, people always tell me what blue eyes! The women admire his long lashes too. G - you're a sweetie.

10-20-10 Grandpa and Temples

2010-10-20T23:00:00.003-05:00

Earlier in the week, I arranged with a friend in my ward to do a babysitting swap. I haven't been to the Temple in a while, and I wanted to go. Today was our day. As soon as I was dressed and sitting in the Temple, I felt peace -- the peace only the Temple can supply. And while there is always a good spirit that attends the sacred place, I was aware of perhaps a little extra warm feeling on this occasion. It set the tone for a good rest of the day. I came home and watched my kids plus our neighbors. Gavin and I took a nap. Jimmy was home at 5 instead of leaving at 5. We went to Costco. It hadn't dawned on me that today is the death-anniversary of my very dear Grandfather; until I read my sisters blog. Becky wrote:

I love my Grandpa very much and he has been very missed the last 3 years. I love going to the temple and the feeling I get when I am there is truly amazing! It is truly a blessing to know that we can go to such an beautiful place and feel the love of those who have gone on before us! John and I have had some very wonderful experience's at the temple that involved Grandpa and I wouldn't give those up for anything! I love having the knowledge that if we live our lives righteously and faithfully we will be able to see him again.

Her writings brought me the thought - the feeling I felt today was Grandpa's hug. I'm grateful that when put ourselves in a position to be blessed, He does ... even when we're not totally aware at that moment of its entirety. I felt bleesed today, but I feel even more blessed now.

Halloween Projects

2010-10-16T22:52:00.009-05:00

I made the "Spooky Countdown" at our Relief Society Freaky~Friday~Craft~Night. The kits we purchased. I threw in a couple of my own textured backgrounds (shown). The mysterious present was sent to me from Haunted Hillside Manor ... Mummy.

In the Halloween bag, we found D0-it-yourself apple witches. Just supply your own apple. "The Gals," as I call them, are from Granny Smiths.

While on our family beach rendezvous, we stenciled 31 on to burlap squares. Then once taken home, we sewed them into pillows. I think my mom and Brenna got the idea from both my cousin Chelsey and a boutique...?

Brianne added a cute fabric border to hers.

More from the Beach Trip

2010-10-10T22:29:00.010-05:00

Classy by day,

Party at night!

Rosa's Doughnuts in Carlsbad. Why does the best food always come from a restaurant named Rosa's?

Tight quarters. In serious need of surf racks.

When we asked Bryce what was your favorite part of the beach trip,
he said, "Playing with my friend Lincoln."

Deals.

2010-10-07T00:02:00.003-05:00

At my local grocery store, I generally buy what's on sale. Although, I usually don't take the time to clip coupons. But, this week in the mail I got a booklet of "Super Shocker Coupons" and at 77 cents for a bottle of Colgate Whitening Toothpaste, I don't think its a false claim. I ended up getting $100 worth of groceries for $55. Score! Then, tonight I walked to CVS on the opposite corner. I scanned my perks card at their new kiosk and it printed out a bunch of coupons for me. It gave me a dollar off my entire purchase, plus $5 off a Halloween item. I picked out a kit of Mr. Potato Headesque silly accessories for pumpkins. It was 4.99 so I got it for free!

I guess in life its the small things that count!

5 things

2010-10-03T14:17:00.003-05:00

Saturday, October 2nd – I'm grateful for:

General Conference
Yard Work
Root Beer
A Gas Station in Walking Distance (To get the Fountain Drink)
Homemade Beef Stew

Sunday, October 3rd – I'm grateful for:

General Conference
Ableskivers - My conference breakfast tradition
Fall
Quiet time
President Monson

Beach Trip 2010!

2010-09-29T22:29:00.004-05:00

via

For the second year in a row, we went to Southern California in September for a beach/surf trip. Last year, we camped. Since both Jimmy and John grew up doing that with their families. We had fun, but it was a little too long and a little too sandy for Becky and I. We made some improvements. This year we stayed at a resort condo, thanks to my aunts timeshare points. Soooo nice to come back and take a shower in a clean, non-spider infested, not a coin-operated community bathroom! The biggest improvement, though, is that we got all the Wooly's to come, from Leslee & LeGrand to newly-weds Brenna and Eli - we were all there (12 adults and 4 children - wow). The weather was beautiful, the water cold. Still, it was fun to brave it while trying out the new long board. The food, tasty, especially since most of it was restaurant versus make-shift campsite cooking. Another perk was being unplugged. I didn't check my email, I let my phone run out of batteries, and I didn't take any pictures – I'm mooching off others photos, with hopefully more to come ;)

The last ride

2010-09-20T15:41:00.005-05:00

Bryce's first time riding a horse by himself, was Aristocrats last. Bryce, named after his great-great uncle is living up to his cowboy genes. If not his namesakes genes, then certainly his Grandfather's. Who rode this horse for over 2 decades. My dad's nickname given by his fellow riders, is "Champ." For reasons too long to list in one post. It's true there's not too many riders in the world like my dad. Then again, there's probably not too many horses like Aristocrat either. Maybe they both were "Born a century too late." I'm glad they were though, so that I could spend my daddy-daughter dates on horseback, and so the third generation can get comfortable at the reins.

Bryce, age 3 rode Aristocrat for an hour and a half, and wanted more.

Utah Fun

2010-09-13T16:06:00.009-05:00

At the end of August, we went up to Utah for Scott (Jimmy's brother) and Jaime's wedding. Here's Bryce with 2 of his older boy cousins on the Macdonald side. They are so cute to include him, and he tries hard to keep up. Other fun things we did was go to a new toy store that opened up in Riverwoods in Provo, Blickenstaff's. They have many toys out for kids to play with, and the ride on horse is free.

Happy Birthday Lincoln, who turned 4 a few days ago!

Can't sleep. Shark will eat me.

We also tested out a free class at the Little Gym. It has me wanting to sign the kids up.

Preschool!

2010-09-08T11:15:00.008-05:00

This is such a fun day! All morning, Bryce kept saying, "Mom, I'm ready to go!" His teacher, Miss Carrie, couldn't be nicer. Since our meeting her, Bryce and I have been looking forward to today for a long time.

Hurray for Preschool!

Gavin's Room

2010-08-13T00:09:00.008-05:00

We finally pulled together Gavin's Room last weekend.

Splash! & Sip!

2010-08-09T15:14:00.001-05:00

My Aunt & Uncle have the most awesome pool ever. The man-made mountain has been dubbed "Wedgie-Rock!" Bryce couldn't get enough of the slide. It was fun to swim with his second cousins too.

And here's a picture from Emma's Lemonade stand. The little cutie made $25!

2010-08-02T17:26:00.003-05:00

Lake Powell from Adam on Vimeo.

I'm totally lucky to be related to my brother-in-law, Adam, who made this awesome video of our vacation in Lake Powell. It captures all the feelings, activities and beauty of Lake Powell. He also took a family picture for us. Thanks Ad!

* Oh, I forgot to mention, I jumped off the same high cliff as the guys. I made Jimmy do it again with me. Then, Heather asked if I'd go again and do it with her, I said no. I couldn't work up the nerves twice!

Lemonade Stand

2010-07-31T15:29:00.006-05:00

If you're in Provo this week, my little niece is having a Lemonade stand to raise money to buy a pink piggy bank. I helped her make a sign. I can't tell if the lemon I drew looks more like a pineapple. Oh well. It remind me of the days my sisters having selling stands in summertime from Kool-aide to Otterpops. Happy Summer!

Play Doh - sculptures, and burried Treasure

2010-07-28T10:16:00.006-05:00

This is what we do when summer days are well, a little too sunny. I take out my jar of odds and ends, and we hide them in the play doh and look for buried treasure. We also create Play-Doh sculptures. Above, one is by Bryce.

By Mom

Sculpture and photo by Bryce

2010-07-24T21:24:00.011-05:00

Lake Powell 2010via

"Thar' she be!"
I love that it only takes just over 4 hours from Mesa to get to Lake Powell.

We always have the most amazing meals. Jimmy coined it last year, "I can no longer say, I haven't been on a cruise." But, do they have chicken roll-ups and Cafe-Rio pork salads on cruises? We do.

Brianne the lovely birthday girl. Lake Powell's fun is only enhanced by presents, candles and cupcakes. We love you Briannie!

We can't get enough cards,

or the beautiful scenery,

or tubing, water-skiing, wake-boarding, cliff jumping (and for Gavin, fish feeding).
In a way, Lake Powell is a fountain of youth. Something about lying under a full moon, being surrounded by the people I love, reading a good book, and soaking in too much vitamin D according to the Dermatologic Board, brings out the inner 16-year-old in me. I experienced de-ja-vue riding the wave-runner with Bryce and Gavin. The memory that I time-traveled back to was riding in the Channel with my best friend, Charee. I felt the same, so its crazy that its been over ten years, and I have two kiddos. I love Lake Powell. I'm glad I get to bring generation 2 with me. I can't wait for next year!

I love tapioca cream fluff pudding & more tales.

2010-07-15T23:01:00.004-05:00

When I was young, I would wake up in the night. The only way to help me go back to sleep, was a warm bowl of Tapioca pudding. My saintly mother, measured the ingredients, beat the egg whites, whisked constantly over the stove, and waited tiredly for it to cool enough so I could fill my tummy. I love you, mom. Thanks.

Quote from Bryce. "Mom, where's my blue basketball game?"
Me: "I don't know. It's lost."
Bryce: "But, where is lost?"

If you speak Neanderthal, you'll realize Gavin has a lot to say too. For instance, "Bop" means he wants to throw a wrapper in the garbage. Or "bop" his dirty bowl in the sink, and likewise, bop his unclean shirt in the laundry basket.

"Om" - A brisk sound of agreement. As in, "Gavin do you want to go upstairs with me?" His reply, "Om." Accompanied with him wrapping his arms around your neck, (or knee if standing) for you to carry him.

"kheeeee" - Body language for this, is head shaking, and a look of concern. It means "yucky."

Here's where the three collide. I almost hesitate to write this story, as to jinx it, but its happened three times now. So I may be on to something. Two days ago, Gavin pointed to his diaper and said, "Kheeeeee, kheeeee." I surveyed the situation and found he had not yet soiled his diaper. With empathy, I asked, "Do you have to go potty?" To which, he firmly replied, "Om." With no hesitation he had his arms around my neck and was ready to go. So I sat him on the toilet. He tried to go, but was too eager to look to see if anything had happened. I signed "more" and he tried again, this time successful! To be so blunt, my 17 month old pooped on the toilet! Gavin clapped. I cheered. Then he grabbed his diaper and said, "Bop." I took him to throw away his diaper. This time, the act seemed symbolic. He was rewarded triumphantly with an Otterpop. He is also now, the proud owner of a Go, Diego, go toilet seat with handles.

June 19th - Magical Day!

2010-07-12T00:06:00.009-05:00

My sister Brenna got married on June 19th 2010. She is the last of the Woolstenhulme "killer B's." It was an amazing wedding!

reception
The lady who makes the magic happen.

It just so happens Jimmy and I were married on June 19th.

Brenna and I both had our recptions in the Lewis' beautiful backyard.

And the same seamstress made our dresses. Brenna was sweet and worried that she was "stealing" our day. Of course, I didn't care, and it actually turned out to be such a neat way to spend an anniversary. June 19th, is a magical day!

Baby Powder

2010-07-06T16:46:00.002-05:00

This is what I mean about "playing together."

If you'd like a tip for another use of baby powder, besides turning your little brother into an albino, my friend taught me that baby powder is useful for getting wet sand off - because it dries it up. I tried it this weekend at the beach, I have to say I was impressed. No more sand stuck in baby rolls for the car ride home.

2010-07-01T20:21:00.002-05:00

When people told me Bryce and Gavin would play together, I'd smile and nod. Secretly, I doubted it. Today, I heard it with my own ears. "My may I please play with Gavin some more after lunch?" It hadn't dawned on me they were playing together. Never mind what they were playing at was throwing the clean laundry all over my room (at least I hadn't folded it yet). They were out of my sight, and weren't killing each other. In fact, they were loving it. Them laughing together is a joyful noise.

Today I'm also grateful for:

Swim lessons
Otterpops
Whipped butter
Chocolate pudding pie, in Oreo crumb crust, with whipped cream, and Heath chunks on top – hmm. no I don't have a sweet tooth. Ya right.
When the curtain rod I want is on sale from $69 to $16.99. I'll take that, thank you.

The birthday bash

2010-06-29T17:13:00.005-05:00

We originally planned on having a hot dog and pool party with four families we're friends with. When Jimmy called, saying he had to work late, I moved to plan B and asked our friends to come for cake and ice cream instead. What made it extra fun, was that I kept the new plan a surprise! I think it turned out to be a perfect and simple 30th birthday.

I made a sign, and water bottle labels. The labels say, "fountain of youth" and had trivia questions about Jimmy, like "On which game-show did Jimmy participate?" Anyone? Anyone?
The card, Bryce made. He's learning to write letters, so the dots helped him spell "Happy Birthday"

Jimmy turns 30!

2010-06-28T23:32:00.005-05:00

Congrats Babe! I'm so glad I'm get to be with you on this special day. Happy Birthday!

Utah Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-10T16:35:00.004-05:00

Day out with Thomas

Pictures from New York

2010-06-02T23:17:00.033-05:00

Hoover Dam! I met my parents in Vegas. They took the kiddos, and I flew to Laguardia.

First stop, Times square to buy tickets to a Broadway.
Oh wait, the box office doesn't open until 3...

We'll hang out at the Cheslea Market for a while instead.

And then, the Manhattan temple, for some additional safety blessings.

Finally, our show!

"Grand Central Station. It's grand and its central."

I couldn't resist taking a picture of the Australian Labra-doodle.
Look at that pose.

Walking the streets of Manhattan.

After 40 minutes of waiting to be seated, we finally gave up. But we did sample a macaroon and hot cross bun, very tasty. We ended up eating lunch at the Shake Shack. As Bri said, "We lucked out."
Upper balcony of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I enjoyed listening to a little orchestra play.

Arches at the Met

Macy's original wood escalator

Brooke & Ann

Rexy

Courtyard at the Cloisters with Ann

George Washington Bridge, view from Cloisters
In my head I hear Ferris Bueller, singing "Central Park in fall" even though I got to visit in beautiful spring time.

Lombardi's Original New York Pizza. Yum.

Brooklyn Bridge

The perfect way to end, (and begin, and keep us going through) the trip...

I've been having Shake Shack withdrawals!

What do New York, Alice Lane and me have in common?

2010-05-25T09:39:00.004-05:00

Brianne and I did it! We took on the big apple; and as sister's should we had a blast. I'm having issues getting my parents computer to read my photo card. So pictures might have to wait. I feel so blessed to have been able to "fill the well" as my old design teacher would say. I have a list of highlights below of such a fun trip to New York. But first, I do realize it's fun to "fill the well" locally. By that I mean, I love getting inspiration for decorating my little nest, or finding ways to express myself artfully. I walked in to Alice Lane furnishing in Provo, for the first time. And while I try keep my desire for new things to a minimum (especially on this blog). They're shop was so fun to walk into. In fact, I didn't want to leave. They having a pillow giveaway, so if that's the type of thing you find joyful, like me then good luck on winning!

Now, back to serious business - Some highlights mostly in chronological order

Seeing our first Broadway in New York: Mama Mia - I'm still dancing to "Dancing Queen" playing in my head.
Going to the Met - I even felt my emotions near the surface when I stood in front of Vermeer's "Young woman with a water pitcher"
Meeting up with Ann, and all the A-hall design crew. You know who you are.
Eating at Shake Shack, Lombardi's Pizza, Junior's cheesecake, and Rice to Riches
Natural history museum - blown away by the blue whale, and the cross section of a great red-wood tree
Cloister's division of the met - beautiful, peaceful, and small gardens and my favorite triptych, Robert Campin and Workshop's "Annuciation."
Central Park
Shopping in Soho
Staten Ferry Island ride - never mind we didn't realize actually took us to Staten Island instead of just a view of the Statue of Liberty. So we looked like idiots when asking for directions.

Happy Mothers Day

2010-05-09T23:52:00.010-05:00

On Mother's Day, I find myself wishing I for poetic talent. It is impossible to be overly-grateful for my mother. When I grow up, I want to be my mother, my grandmother, my mother-in-law, her mother, and many other wonderful inspiring women; but, especially my mother. Happy Mother's Day Mom! I love you.

Happy 1st Birthday Avery Sue. The brand new babe in the picture is now one (well a couple days ago)! She's darling, and I'm glad we're coming to visit soon.

We had a packed weekend! The first Friday of the month is free at the Children's Museum of Phoenix. A while ago, I posted pics from there. We went this month, the kids love it.

(Friday)

(Saturday)Then Saturday we drove to the Gila Valley Temple open house. It's in eastern Arizona, about a 3 hour drive through scenic red rock canyons. The kids slept for most the way, so like my sister-in-law said, Jimmy and I had a date. Missy, and her husband and kids were out from California for a Rowley family reunion. I love Missy and Brian and their kids. Its always a good time with them. After the open house, they stayed at our house last night, and hung out today. I was blessed growing up around lots of cousins, so its fun seeing my kids with their cousins. Prior to the open house, in which we needed to be in our Sunday best, the kids were splashing in a sandy-stream on Brian's family property. Today, they orchestrated a march in honor of Mother's day, and preformed it for Missy and I. Emily played the marching drum, Rachel the tambourine, Jimmy the bell, Brian the toy piano, and Caleb played my new favorite instrument of the group - the rifle pop gun (with his shirt off). Bryce was tuckered out from the big weekend and taking a rest. They marched in a circle and sang "Mother Dear we love you so." Gavin watched on my lap.

Tomatoes

2010-05-05T12:25:00.005-05:00

Thanks Dad for the planter boxes! The tomatoes are looking awesome. When I was kid, my cousin Danielle and I would pick tomatoes off the vine and eat them like an apple. I could see Bryce doing the same.

More Ground Breaking Ceremony

2010-05-02T22:20:00.007-05:00

Our bishop took these pictures. It was a beautiful morning.

Ground Breaking Ceremony

2010-05-01T11:08:00.007-05:00

We started our Saturday morning off with hot cakes and sausage at a ground breaking ceremony for our new ward building. President Levitt bought 50 cans of gold spray paint so everyone could have a golden shovel to break in the dirt.

Happy Arbor Day

2010-04-30T14:41:00.006-05:00

I love trees. So to celebrate Arbor day, I took the boys to Mesa's Multi-Generational Center, because they were planting a tree this morning. They had shovels and they offered to let Bryce shovel dirt into the hole. Bryce, however, wasn't enthralled with it as a hoped. Instead, he wanted to go back inside where he saw people eating. So, we ate animal crackers and listened to Elvis karaoke with the seniors. We had one cute lady want to dance with the boys, but they were too bashful. It was such a random morning that I had to share.

Little Graphic Designer

2010-04-26T23:28:00.006-05:00

By: Bryce

I've been doing a little more graphic design work lately, which is great. I love that I can use my skill at home. My sister Brenna is getting married and I got to design her wedding announcement. I've also had a couple jobs fall into my lap - I'm way happy about. As you can imagine though, I don't get much work done if the boys are awake. When I do try and sneak some in, it doesn't take long for my boys to come find me. So, I let Bryce try his hand at graphic design work. Kids are so naturally artistic.

Brenna's invite - I'll have to take a picture of the actual printed piece, because the paper and letterpress make a huge difference.

Visiting

2010-04-21T18:13:00.005-05:00

As much as love visitors, I also love visiting people. We we lucky enough to go to Southern California wed - sat a couple weeks back. We visited Brianne and Brandon. Becky and John drove down, Bones and his girlfriend made the trip. The last evening we spent with Missy and Brian and their awesome crew. I love all these people!! In fact, we had so much fun that I forgot to take any pictures. But you know there was a beach day or two, good eats, and shopping.

Well I do have pictures about a different kind of visiting. I made little bouquets for the ladies I visit teach in March. Its my 2010 New Years resolution to have 100% visiting teaching every month. I've been doing pretty good so far. I thought I'd share.

Easter

2010-04-06T12:59:00.007-05:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter. We sure did.

We love the basket from my Mom, dying Easter Eggs with a rainbow of colors, listening to Conference, and having dinner with the Webbs.

Come One, Come All

2010-03-31T23:39:00.005-05:00

I was lucky enough to have not one set of visitors, but a few. First my cousin Carol-lyn, then my parents, Brenna, Grandma Grace, Brandon and Brianne came. Followed by my mother-in-law and Grandma Beverley. The beautiful weather and lure of the swimming pool might lure you too if you're reading this. (And I hope it will!) It wasn't much of a vacation though for my dad. He built us a garden box, sandbox, mounted our tv and finished the beautiful table he and Jimmy built. (The table is worthy of its own post...) I'm so proud of us girls, went on a morning hike. We ate at Joes farm grill. Yum. All I can say is we had fun.

WE LOVE VISITORS!! WE MISS YOU!! COME AGAIN!!

San Ramon/Monterey Trip Day 2

2010-03-12T15:01:00.016-06:00

We had such a blast at Denise the Menis Park in Monterey. And it was free. (Or as Jimmy likes to say, "frizzle"!

Black Peacock

2010-03-08T23:26:00.007-06:00

Remember these? Well all good things must come to an end. I loved collaborating with two Amazing friends to create silk-screened original artwork. But our web-site is shutting down permanently at the end of this week. Bummer! The huge silver-lining is that we're offering a friends and family close-out discount. If you want one of the remaining canvases, order one off our website, mention you read my blog and we'll send you a $50 rebate with your original artwork. Order online by Thursday March 11, to ensure we get the order. Or, contact me directly.

One, last thing... pretty please help us spread the word today, by putting these pictures and the sidebar button on your blog. Anyone who mentions your blog when ordering will get the discount too!

San Ramon/Monterey Trip Day 1

2010-03-08T11:46:00.012-06:00

Leaving on a jet-plane!

So excited to Becky and John.

We ate lunch at the one and only Mr. Pickle sandwich shop.

All tuckered out.

On our first day we visited Berkley and walked the famous Telegraph street. When I stopped to take a picture of the street sign, I heard someone say, "#@$% tourists, taking pictures!" Thanks for rolling out the welcome mat. I guess that and someone lighting up some maryjo in front of Fat Slice is what makes it Berkley.

Greasey delicious pizza. Now we know why its called Fat Slice.

Gratitude Challenge Day 5

2010-02-25T22:27:00.002-06:00

gratitudechallenge.com Day 5 - "Take five minutes to write about how grateful you are for all of the wonderful things that you currently have in your life. Don’t long for what you don’t possess—instead, take stock of all the blessings you already enjoy."

I love looking at blogs, particularly decorating blogs, but they do make me long for what I don't posses. So I am thankful for this challenge, because there are innumerable blessings I currently have. I'm going to start off with a blessing I got in the way of a bargain. 2 gallons of paint for $20. I'm grateful for a healthy body, food storage, clothes that fit and are clean, pictures of my kids. I'm thankful for my talent in graphic design, and my education from BYU. I'm thankful Jimmy has been home more this month, and that we can wither spend the morning together, or watch a show together at night, if we're lucky both. I love spending time with him. I'm grateful he makes me laugh.

Gratitude Challenge Day 4

2010-02-24T14:51:00.003-06:00

"Write a short message of thanks for some of the “negative” things in your life."

I think we would all agree that cavities are a negative thing in life. As, I alluded to in the X in my alphabetical list, I had x-rays done at my dental visit. Finding I have 2 big cavities and a missing filling. But how cool is it that we have digital x-rays and dental care, that can prevent having my tooth rot and then just yanking it out? That's something to be grateful for. Dentists are something to be grateful for. The biggest silver lining to my story is a particular dentist who my sister works for, Dr. Walker. He gave me a second opinion, that perhaps I didn't need everything outline by the first doctor, which for me right now is good even if it means more dental are in the future. Also, because Brianne works there he's giving me a discount. A huge burden has been lifted.

Day 2 - Gratitude Challenge

2010-02-22T21:01:00.002-06:00

"Use the alphabet as a fun and quick format for making a list of things for which you feel grateful. Share this list with your social network through email, a blog post or a Facebook or MySpace page."

A - Apples with caramel dip. Tonight for our Family Night treat we ate homemade caramel and dipped apple slices in them. The recipe I got from my sister, Brianne.

B - Brittany, Brooke, Brianne, Becky Brenna, (aka the Killer B's). I heart all my sistas!

C - Cows. I'm grateful I'm not lactose intolerant.

D - Dad. Not many young girls get to spend a half day to a long weekend one on one with their father riding horses. I'm grateful for that time with him.

E - Energy.

F - Friends

G - Gavin

H - Hot tub. I have to say this with a chuckle. Our new owners club is open so we've gone "swimming" in the hot tub.

I - Ice cream probably my favorite is oberwies chocolate peanut butter.

J - Jumping

K - Kites

L - Lights. Sun light, Christmas lights, Bistro Lights, Candle light, Fire lights.

M - Mom. How can I describe the best mom in a single sentence? I can't so I'll just say I love you.

N - Nails (hardware). Think of the stuff you build with nails.

O - Oh David! by David Shannon

P - Peanut Butter

Q - Quiet time

R - Roses

S - Snowboarding

T - Trees

U - U.S.A.

V -Vacuum

W - Wikipedia

X - x rays. I went to the dentist last week and was highly impressed with digital xrays

Y - yellow

Z - Zebra print shoes

Gratitude Challenge

2010-02-21T15:59:00.002-06:00

Today in Church, two of the talks were given on a topic that resonates with me, gratitude. It's a virtue that I'm constantly falling short of, and hence why I started this blog. I've learned this. A happy life must have gratitude in it. One of the quotes shared today, came from the For the Strength of Youth Pamphlet, "Live with a spirit of thanksgiving and you will have greater happiness and satisfaction in life. Even in your most difficult times, you can find much to be grateful for. Doing so will strengthen and bless you." That's why I need this blog. When I become dissatisfied, I can count my blessing and the negative feelings melt into happiness and satisfaction. A website was introduced to me, gratitudechallenge.com Here's a video from their website. They have a 21 day challenge. Go to their website to download a calendar. Today, I am electronically signing a pledge to take the 21 day gratitude challenge. If I don't have access to a computer, I will record my thoughts in my journal. By the end of the 3 weeks, I hope to not only have filled my life with more happiness, but others lives as well.

Race Track

2010-02-20T21:33:00.006-06:00

When we painted the black wall in the kitchen, we also painted an orange wall in Bryce's room. For his birthday, we got the race-track stickers on. It only took, Jimmy, me, Scott, his friend Dustin, and his wife Sue to figure it out, (I mean coming up with the perfect track). The track stickers are from the Land of Nod. It's a fun way to fill up a wall.

Our Hiking Hill

2010-02-19T16:11:00.007-06:00

To the Summit

We made it!

Throwing rocks over the edge.

Gavin and Mommy at the top - Superstition Mountains behind us.

Not far from our house, is a small hill. We call it our hiking hill, although I'm sure it has an actual name. In the summer, the kids and I were up bright and early. I think it was before we had our blinds installed. So I loaded Gavin the in Baby Bjorn, and put Bryce's tennis shoes on. We made it up half the hill to a look out point. We downed our entire water bottle. Sweaty and red faced, we called it quits. When we got home, I checked the temperature. It was already 90 degrees and not even 8 am yet. I haven't been back up it until last week. February is a friendly hiking time in Arizona. I'm glad when someone asks if we've gone up it yet, I don't have to say anymore, "Only half way."

Fresh Paint, New Shelves & Picture Gallery

2010-02-17T19:50:00.004-06:00

This wall before was a void, and now it makes everything pop. Black was a bold choice, but we went for it. I'm a fan.

2010-02-17T18:37:00.005-06:00

You would think I would have wiped off my butcher block before I took the picture. No, its proof I baked!

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-17T18:20:00.006-06:00

Bryce Valentines morning.

Because of this darling v-day present (xo from mom & britt)...

I made these lovelies!

2-16

2010-02-16T22:15:00.004-06:00

I'm grateful for....

Poodle-dos – My parents have a poodle, and we always joke that Koda is groomed better than us. So here's to the Poodle-do.
Outdoor swimming in February
Chocolate - I'm sure I've mentioned this a dozen times, but stop and think. Can you image a world sans chocolate? It makes me want a bite of cake right now.

THREE!

2010-02-12T18:12:00.004-06:00

peekaboophotos

Bryce, my "first born in the wilderness" as I like to say. How lucky I am to have been your mom these past three years. How you make me laugh. The other day, I did something that you thought was deserving of praise. So you complemented me by saying, "Good boy, Girl!" Then we both laughed for 5 minutes.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

ONE!

2010-02-03T21:14:00.006-06:00

peekaboophotos

Oh G-Man! I can't believe your one.
It makes me sad, but you make me smile.

jessloraine

Cute things you're doing now that your one.

Hold up a phone, and say "Dadda, dadda"
Say in a whisper and pointing "Whas dat?"
Say "Dayn Doo" when someone hands you food.

Giddy Up Partners!

2010-02-01T21:49:00.012-06:00

Winter!

2010-01-29T15:25:00.004-06:00

Sunday Jan 17

2010-01-17T22:15:00.004-06:00

Today I'm grateful for:

Sundays when Jimmy doesn't work - I finally didn't feel like a widow at Church.
Babysitters - We hired a responsible young women to watch our kids last night, so we could go out to eat. She did a great job, I can't wait to hire her again. It still feels a little weird that I'm the one doing the hiring and not girl babysitting. But it made me feel so adult, and we really had an enjoyable evening out.
Jimmy's chocolate-chip cookies - I love Sunday's when Jimmy is home, because the kitchen has a warm smell of freshly baked cookies.
Freshly painted walls - This week we painted a wall in our kitchen, and a wall in Bryce's room. Its actually the first paint job we've done in our new house.
Gov'ment (SNL spelling) rebate check - We finally got our 2008 rebate check, there was a delay because of the house. Anyway, I was able to spruce up our stock kitchen light fixture, with one a really love. I got it on Overstock.com and it was only $2 shipping.

The kids and I won't see Jimmy until the 29th, so this is a little shout-out to him. Miss you babe!

Craft Time Turned Body Art

2010-01-16T09:16:00.005-06:00

One of my New Year's goals is to do Craft-Time with Bryce at least once a week (and maybe daily smaller projects). Well, we went to Target, picked out some washable paint. He wanted Red, Brown, and Orange to go in the bowl. I poured a little in. He had a big paint brush and an even bigger paper to paint on. (I used tape to tape it in place so it wouldn't move). He had a long sleeve shirt on, and the sleeves weren't staying rolled. So I said "let's just take your shirt off." Then I did something I shouldn't have. I multi-tasked. While, he was painting in a manner perfectly pleasing to me. I turned on some music, and went to gather the wet towels from the bathroom to put in the washer. That's all the time he needed. Bryce came in the bathroom, while I was still bent over picking up towels, and he said, "Look Mom - paint on my tummy." I picked him up. Took him outside for a picture, then we went back in the bathroom. Bryce went in the shower, and I told him. "That's the only time you get to put paint on your body." He said, "Okay Mommy." Next craft time will be 100% supervised. At least, it was on his tummy, and not my rug.

A little catch up

2010-01-16T09:05:00.002-06:00

We're headed to Utah in a few days. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait! Around here it seems January is flying by, and we were without internet for a couple days, so now I need to do a little catch up on posts before our trip. I wanted to share a recipe my sister-in-law shared in response to my last two recipe posts. Thanks Kristine!

Easy Alfredo Sauce ( A lighter Alternate to Regular Alfredo)

1/3 cup margarine

1/2 cup evaporated milk

1/2 cup parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and stir constantly until smooth. The sauce thickens as it cools. If it gets too thick, add a little milk to thin it to the consistency you like. Using a whisk to remove any cheese lumps that form is also helpful.

We've found that generic brand ingredients work great for this and we also leave out the salt. I double the recipe to feed our crew.

What's for dinner? Part II

2010-01-05T09:49:00.008-06:00

On the heels of the last post, I wanted to tell you what else I made to go along with our Chicken Satay with Peanut sauce. The reason is because the chicken turned out yummy and so did the sauce. I left out the raw onion called for in the sauce. Then, I had a pineapple to eat. At first, I was going to make a dip to eat with it. But since we were grilling, I hurried and looked up how to grill pineapple. I found this recipe. It gave the dinner a little something extra to have grilled pineapple. I didn't put the ground pepper as the recipe calls for. I was looking for the sticky-sweetness of Brazillian grilled pineapple. The recipe is less sweet than Tucano's, but it was still good.

Our other side was from another great webbie source. We ate Sweet pepper rice found at ourrecipeclub.blogspot.com. I can also, highly recommend the enchiladas pictured. Yum.

I'm sorry if dieting is on your new year's resolution. Because I'm going to temp you to break it. My resolution is to learn to make the Top Secret's Recipe book version of the Bloomin' Onion. Thanks to my bro-in-law, Scott. I have a fun new recipe book full of restaurant favorites. Tell ya what. Don't break your resolution. Instead, find the tastiest healthy recipe and share it with me please.

In a nutshell here's my thankful list:

Grilling, dipping, and deep-frying
Eating Resturuant-type food at home
New Cookbooks/recipe sources
New Year's Resolutions - Speaking of that, I'm still narrowing down my other resolutions, and will post them shortly.

What's for dinner?

2010-01-04T14:26:00.006-06:00

Today on my thankful list is good recipes and new sources for them. To me a recipe is good, when 1. I can follow it. (I'm not a master chef here). 2. It comes out deliciouso (Meaning it might fool someone into thinking I'm a cook). 3. The cheaper the better. (I try to spend $70 a week on groceries + $30 per month on food storage items).

Last night for dinner we ate Terry Griecos Kenny's Mother's Frittata recipe. That's a mouthful. Basically, I've saved a recipe from Women's Day magazine. The caption is what lured me to try it. "Mom raised seven(!) kids, and taught me how to feed a family fast and frugally."

You can click on the picture above to enlarge it, or I typed the recipe below.

Vegetables:

2 cups sliced zucchini
1 cup diced potatoes
1 cup chopped onion

Egg Mixture

8 large eggs
1 cup shredded part-ski mozzarella
1/3 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper

Toppings

Heated marinara sauce
Chopped basil

Directions:

Turn on broiler. Heat a Tbsp oil in an 11-12-in. nonstick skillet. Add Vegetables; saute 5 minutes or until almost tender.
Whisk Egg Mixture in a medium bowl. Pour into a skillet, shaking pan a bit to distribute evenly.
Cover and cook (without stirring), about 4 minutes over medium-low heat, until set on bottom and sides (it will still be runny in center).
Wrap skillet handle with foil. Broil 2 minutes or until center is firm. Serve out of skillet, or loosen edges and invert onto platter Serve with Toppings.

Tonight I'm trying TLC's "Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce." I've never made it before, but I have eaten it before (not this recipe). So I'll see how it goes.

Little Women

2009-12-31T13:57:00.002-06:00

credit

Growing up my mom used to call us Louisa and her "Little Women." I didn't know why until the movie...which is still one of my favorites, especially at Christmastime. That's why this month I decided to read the actual book. I loved every second of it. Mostly because reading about the March sisters felt like I was reading about myself and my 4 sisters. I laughed as I saw corresponding personality traits. From pretty Amy (Brenna) touring France, to sweet Beth (Becky) whose health troubled her, and of course Marmee who is Leslee. Period. Always doing something for someone else, and nothing pleasing her more than to have her daughters be friends. Beyond similar personality traits however, I was cracking up over life lessons illustrated perhaps more in the book than in the movie. How these girls tried so hard to be grateful...indeed they had much to be grateful for in terms of friends, and talent, respect, and their greatest treasure family. But every-time they determined to be "happy pilgrims" and carry on, some other worldly nicety plagued the young girls. Oh, how I relate. I may not wish for a pair of white gloves so that I may look proper at Sallie Moffats party, but as I was grumpily picking socks and towels off the floor told Jimmy, "I wish I had Sallie Moffats servants." He couldn't help but laugh, and I let a smile too. Well, I don't have servants, but I do have the cutest 2 boys in the world. So I'm signing off to pick up towels and socks, and everything else on my floor. Happy New Years Eve. And if reading a good book is on your new years resolution list, may I recommend Little Women.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-28T15:53:00.007-06:00

Opening presents under the tree.

Two guesses what Bryce got for Christmas.

Here's an excerpt from my journal:

I'm reflecting on all the packages our loved ones sent us. It actually gave me the chance to meet our postman as he daily delivered parcels and postcards. As he handed me one such package, he observed, "You guys are going to have quite the Christmas." And so we did. To paraphrase President Monson, (the prophet of our church) "If we want to feel the spirit of Christmas, we need to only seek the spirit of Christ." I have felt love and peace in my heart as we taught the Christmas story to Bryce. Listened to inspiring talks, imagined choirs of angels combining with our church choir, participated in sub-for-Santa projects, and simply tried to be more patient and kind. I'm sad to see the season pass. I do look forward though to a new start with the beginning of a new...decade.

Gingerbread houses and flannel pjs

2009-12-24T22:45:00.005-06:00

We had a fun Christmas Eve Eve get-together with our friends the Baughs. This is the decorating gingerbread houses festivities.

Then later we did our Christmas Eve tradition one night early since Jimmy is on call tonight. We opened one present each from Grandma Joanne, and Grandma and Grandpa Woolstenhulme...flannel pjs!

Bryce's Candy Cane

2009-12-24T16:42:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Festivities!

2009-12-21T14:17:00.006-06:00

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Mesa LDS Temple - The Christmas lights here are spectacular, they have outdoor concert choirs too. My favorite is the palm trees, and the grapefruit trees loaded with citrus this time of year sparkling and light up with lights. It's a living Christmas tree with edible decorations!
Ribbon - This time of year, I rekindle my love of ribbon and wrapping paper.
Apple Turnovers - I'm looking forward to our traditional Christmas morning breakfast of bacon and apple turnovers.

Christmas Sweater Party

2009-12-16T16:54:00.006-06:00

Hello Christmas 2009!

Jim's co-resident invited us to their annual Christmas sweater party. We had so much fun. But since we don't own Christmas sweaters we wore the next best thing, our hand-knitted stockings! Which leads me to my thankful list:

Aunt Eileen knitting all of our stockings
Parties! - We had so much fun Danielle and Brandon
Babysitters - Thanks again to Joel and Jill, we owe you.
Yummy soup and salad - Jim and I both went back for seconds
White Elephant Gift Exchange - Always good for a laugh and an ice breaker

2009-12-09T23:34:00.004-06:00

My friend, Lindsay's Christmas card a couple years back said, "Oh the weather outside is...75 and sunny!" I think that fits since we're putting up decorations with short-sleeves on. I don't mind it one bit.

Vistitors & Oreos

2009-12-05T20:25:00.003-06:00

Visitors – Last night I got a call from my cousin Joe Woosltenhulme, who said he and his family were in town for a conference. We were able to have a BBQ together today and have our kids play together while they went to the Mesa Temple.
Wild West – While we loved our time in St. Louis, one reason we were happy to make our way to the wild west is just so we could live closer to family and more frequent visitors.
Small World – Speaking of St. Louis, I just found out that someone in our Church boundaries down here is the sister of a friend from St. Louie. What's funny, is that prior to finding this out, I thought to myself, I want to be friends with Sarah because she reminds me of Emily.
The Adams Family – We're sad to see Koston, Jak, Penny, Chelsey and Daniel move to Cali though. We were spoiled to live by them in St. Louis and then again in Arizona for a time. But all I can say is Beach Trip!
Oreos – Brianne and Brandon saw these decadent chocolate-covered oreos at a cute boutique in Redlands. Brandon had the idea to make their own and give them out for neighbor/friend/teacher gifts. Bri asked me to make a label similar to the ones in the picture. After doing so, I decided I want to give them out too! If you also want to jump on the chocolate-covered Oreo gift train, I'm happy to swap your name on the label. Just leave a comment or email me with what you want it to say. Then I'll email you a pdf you can print on a full sheet label paper.

A little list

2009-12-02T14:14:00.003-06:00

As my Christmas wish list, and to-do list grows, I'm going to try and be good at keeping my Thankful list up-to-date.

Relief Society Christmas Program – I enjoyed beautiful musical numbers and Christmas stories, and yummy gingerbread cake with hot chocolate sauce last night.
Give and Take Table (at the afore mentioned bullet). They had a table for people to donate gently used items, and you could take them. I got a cute pair of green heels that probably were never worn!
Hot Showers - I'm fully appreciating these next two items because the weather is cooling off and it actually gets a bit chilly in the morning.
Hot Chocolate - delicious
Christmas Stories - AT the Christmas party last night they read, among other, a story call the "Last straw" by Paula McDonald and then gave us each a little manger with straw. You can read the story here, and order here. I'm going to read/tell it to my family so we can add pieces of straw to our manger like in the story.