Musings and Happenings

jack: sometimes he bites back

2011-11-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Nelson brought home a special "friend" from school:

it's amazing i'm still alive

2011-10-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

Here is a list (in no particular order) of foods I have been told I must not even put in my mouth, because they are bad for me and will kill me. Surprisingly enough, I'm still here...

red meat

chicken

fish

raisins

orange juice

milk

apple juice

apples

canola oil

butter

margarine

Crisco

eggs

soy foods

table salt

sugar

corn syrup

bread

grilled foods

theater popcorn

Mexican food

Chinese food

MSG

white rice

white flour

hot dogs

bacon

lunch meats

potatoes

pasta

tap water

bottled water
chewing gum

etc.

(Good grief!)

why, yes...

2011-10-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

I DO drive an old car... :-D

what does it mean to be a "Christian"?

2011-10-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Listening to the recent debate about whether Mormons are Christians, and listening to people talking past each other about this topic, has led me to some serious consideration. Exactly what do people mean when they talk about someone or some church being "Christian"? I think there are three definitions, and commentators are confusing the three. Hence, we insult each other or can't understand where the other guy is coming from. Here are the three definitions I have identified:

1) "Christian" means kind, charitable, decent. We say things like, "That was a Christian thing for him to do." If this is the meaning we attach to the word, then people being told they are not Christian is a slap in the face. It means they are unkind, uncharitable, indecent. When applied to "Mormons," this is patently false, since they, both institutionally and individually are known for kind, charitable, and decent activities. Of course, not all Mormons fit this description. But then, neither do all Baptists, Lutherans, Mennonites, etc.

2) "Christian" means considering oneself to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. This is outside any denominational categories. I would consider any follower of Buddha to be Buddhist, regardless of the specific brand of Buddhism he practices. Some people consider themselves followers of Jesus Christ but belong no church at all. Since members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (nicknamed Mormons) consider themselves to be disciples of Jesus Christ, since they consider that He is the head of their church, since they "talk of Christ, ... rejoice in Christ, ... preach of Christ, ... prophesy of Christ" [2 Nephi 25:26, Book of Mormon], they consider themselves to be Christians. To tell them they are not makes no sense in this definition.

3) "Christian" means those churches which have broken off from the Catholic Church, but still accept the dogmas and the creeds which were established in the early centuries by the Catholic Church as to the nature of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, i.e. the Trinity (the Nicene Creed, the Apostles Creed, etc.). These are sometimes called "historic Christianity." It is true that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not fit this definition of "Christianity." However, this is like insisting that these so-called "mainstream Christian" churches have some kind of copyright or trademark on the name "Christian." I would suggest that most people outside evangelical churches are confused when this meaning of "Christian" is used to deny others the right to call themselves "Christians."

So, are Mormons "Christians"? I guess it depends on which definition you use. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I consider myself to be a Christian, in that I consider myself to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Whether I am a Christian in the sense of definition one, I must leave to those around me and to God to judge. If you mean definition three, I guess I am not. But then I don't know what you call me. Mormon is just a nickname given to those of us who accept the Book of Mormon as scripture, another testament of Jesus Christ, a companion to the Holy Bible. (We could call believers in the Bible, "Biblists." But then I'm a Biblist, too.)

If you want to read more about what "Mormons" believe about Jesus Christ, I urge you to visit mormon.org. Then you can decide for yourself if Mormons are indeed Christians.

pear pie

2011-09-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe last year. Yumm! It's super easy and a great way to use up the pears that are ripe when you're tired of canning.

Click here to get the recipe from allrecipes.com.

fishin' with the Bobs

2011-09-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

Bob and Bob recently took Nelson and David fishing. They had a great time! And they even caught some fish, which we will enjoy over the next few weeks.

Everyone caught lots of fish--especially Aaron!

Although sometimes he caught other stuff as well.

The thrill of victory!

That's my boy!

Thanks, Bob!

josh groban concert!

2011-09-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

OK, so Josh Groban is about my favorite singing artist. *sigh* Our dear friend, Angie, treated Nelson and me to his Portland concert this August. Here's our crew, pre-concert:

We had pretty good seats, about half-way back:

What made it really neat, was that to our left, about 20 feet, was a secondary small stage, with a piano and a couple of chairs. That's where he came to do his opening number! We could have hit him with a paper airplane (which we didn't try).

What a great time we had! Thanks, again, Angie!

alsea falls

2011-09-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

Alsea Falls is one of our favorite places. So recently we took off as a whole family, plus two of David's friends. It was a lovely day, and we enjoyed the break from our regular routine. There wasn't as much water as last year, but everyone still seemed to have fun.


Getting ready to stick toes in.

slip-slidin' away

The Three Musketeers.

my star scout

2011-08-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

On the 20th, David earned the rank of Star Scout. We're quite proud.

There was a moment of humor:

"...and David has earned his Fingerpainting merit badge..." (Note the raised eyebrow.)

"Er... FingerPRINTING merit badge."

I have two guys in the "Eagles Nest," and someday hope to have three.

mount st. helens

2011-08-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

Since I moved to Oregon, I've always wanted to visit Mount St. Helen's and last week we finally went. It takes about four hours to get there, but is well worth the drive. So awesome, in the real sense of that word.

We saw some wildlife...

Inchworm enhance...

The closer we got, the more impressive the mountain became.

The view from the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center.


Getting closer.


From the look-out at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, about 5 miles away. You really need to click on this to get a feel for the great sweep of land.

On the way home, we stopped to visit Bigfoot.

learning to dance

2011-08-17T11:01:00.000-07:00

At the lovely wedding reception we attended the other night, David got dancing lessons from his sweet friend, Katie:

Then more lessons from his sister, Heather:

They grow up so fast!

is this a big weed...

2011-08-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

or what?

I suggested that we cut it up for firewood...

(Hmm, maybe we've let the yard get just a tad out of hand...)

Shoshone Falls

2011-08-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

A beautiful place I'd never been was Shoshone Falls, near Twin Falls, Idaho. Notice the double rainbow:

Here's an old photo of how the falls looked when they were first discovered, in the 1800s:

Our Happy Crew

Geronimo!

2011-08-06T14:57:00.000-07:00

On our way home from Aberdeen, we stopped in Twin Falls at the bridge over the Snake River. As luck would have it, while we were there, two men came to jump off the bridge:

The river is really beautiful, and the view is spectacular:

Nelson, Aaron, Heather, and David were brave enough to walk out on the bridge:

(See those itty-bitty people? That's them.)

David and Heather met I. B. Perrine, the main founder of Twin Falls.

Here's our happy crew:

The Nat!

2011-08-04T20:56:00.000-07:00

While in Idaho, getting Aaron from school and visiting with my Dad, we went to Indian Springs, which we used to call "The Nat." It looks just like it used to when I was a kid! Great fun. Don't you love the multi-colored doors on the changing rooms?

It was a great day for swimming.

Even my Dad got in the pool:

There's this great barrel in the middle that you can go over:

What a great time we had!

hope is for us

2011-07-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

The other day I was thinking about that great trilogy of Faith, Hope, and Charity. And while they are very intertwined, so that you can't really have any of these qualities without having the others, it occurred to me that they are each focused on someone different.

Faith is for God: Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the first principle of the Gospel. Faith in our Heavenly Father. "Thou shalt love the Lord, thy God, with all thy heart..."

Charity is for our fellowman: Charity for our family, our friends, our neighbors. "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."

But what about Hope? Then it came to me: Hope is for us. Because of Christ, I can hope for my heart's righteous desires. I can hope for good things now and in the future. "[Have] a perfect brightness of hope."

Somehow, that makes me smile.

Hope is for us.

flowering almond, symbol of hope

it's official--he DOES have a brain!

2011-06-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

David participated in some psychology tests at the U of O, one of which included having an MRI of his brain. Cool, huh?

heart attack!

2011-04-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

For Family Home Evening, Nelson, David, and I "heart attacked" Heather's and Aaron's doors.

I LOVE my kids!

the hope of spring

2011-04-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

our Asian pear in bloom

dancing daffodils in the back yard

oh, no!

2011-04-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

So, Heather comes home from school this afternoon, all upset because she was in a little accident. She said she was at a red light, thought it turned green, started to turn left, and got hit on the driver's side. Everyone was OK, but the other car's front looked pretty smooshed. She gave them her information and got theirs. I just knew it! These car things come in threes and I've been waiting for another mishap. It's going to be just like a few years ago when we had the pickup and the Plymouth and I was on the phone to the insurance company every other week. So, she takes me out to the car to see the damage. Here's a link to the damage pictures.
She got a good spanking afterward.

bowling

2011-03-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

So, we went bowling for some "wholesome recreational activity."

As you can see by the scores (and Heather's face) we're not quite ready for the leagues.

I think we'll stick to Wii bowling for the time being. We are much better at that. :-)

out with the old...

2011-03-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

Good-bye, Chevy Malibu. *sniff* *sniff*

in with the new ...

Hello, Honda Civic Hybrid! Hurray!

totally

2011-03-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

I was

totally surprised when Nelson came home and explained that he was in a car accident on the way home from work

totally relieved and thankful that neither he nor anyone else was hurt

totally shocked by the appearance of the car--the whole frame is bent. You can barely open the trunk and the passenger-side door

totally anxious about dealing with the insurance company

totally sad because we just paid the car off

totally thankful again that Nelson wasn't hurt

The insurance guy came yesterday. Of course, the car is totaled. I guess we're going car shopping next week. (I totally hate that.)

dancing with the daffodils

2011-03-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

We'd never been to the Junction City Daffodil Festival, so this year we decided to check it out. Daffodils are MY FAVORITE flower. They look so cheerful in the spring. The day was drizzly and muddy, but it was a fun, new thing to do. Here are things we saw:

llamas

a tipi

a nineteen-fifty-something Bel-Air, one of our favorites

a tuba band

kettle korn

and, of course, daffodils

including some on hats

The drive to the festival wasn't as amazing as it had been described. There were pretty flowers, but not as many as I'd imagined. It was low-key, but fun. Here's how William Wordsworth felt about daffodils:

Daffodils

I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the milky way,
They stretched in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed--and gazed--but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:

For oft, when on my I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.

William Wordsworth

i miss...

2011-02-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

Nelson took me for a drive last night, because I just needed to get away for a while. We drove out west of town, no destination really, and after a few minutes we stopped, and listened. It was so lovely! Living in town, I miss the sounds of the night that I grew up with on the farm. So here, for your listening pleasure, is what we heard:

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I find this so soothing. It did my nerves good. Thank you, little frogs!

pep band

2011-02-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

David's middle school band was asked to play with the high school band for a girls' basketball game. They played the National Anthem. David is top row, sixth from left.

We don't usually go to local sporting events, but wanted to support David. Maybe we were jinxes, because the home team girls got trounced! But we had a good time.

oh, I wish I were...

2011-02-05T12:23:00.000-08:00

...an Oscar Mayer wiener. Or maybe the Wienermobile.

Got to sit in the seats inside:

Sadly, we arrived too late for the Wienie-whistles... :-(

It was still fun, though.

one of the best things...

2011-01-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

One of the best things we've done is hang a hummingbird feeder outside our kitchen window:

*slurp, slurp, slurp*

"A-a-a-a-a-h."

Makes me smile just to see these little guys perched outside our window. ☺

holiday mail for heroes

2010-09-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

You may not be thinking about Christmas quite yet. (Well, I know some of you probably have your shopping all done and I have to hate you, but I digress...) But here is a way to share the Christmas spirit with the men and women of our armed services. You can express your support this Christmas season by sending cards to them. Forget the spam email that tells you to send cards to Walter Reed hospital--they are not true. But you can send cards through the Red Cross. Here is their web site. Be sure to click on Planning Tips to read the specific instructions.

Let's not forget those who are still fighting on our behalf.

pears, pears, pears

2010-09-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

I bought a box of pears through the Relief Society, and put them in the refrigerator while I was away, taking Aaron to BYU-Idaho. After two weeks of refrigeration, they were ready to be taken out to ripen and use. They all came due this week!

So I have now canned 15 quarts of pears.

Made pear-sauce in my slow-cooker, using an applesauce recipe. We had some the other night and loved it! It's also really good on hot oatmeal for breakfast.

Dried some. Dehydrated pears are chewy, but tasty as a snack.

I even found a recipe for pear pie. Can't wait to try it tonight!

I feel so domestic!

a snapshot of aberdeen, idaho

2010-09-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

My best friend growing up, ArLynn, asked me to take a picture of Aberdeen while I was there. So one day, I took my camera and went shooting. I couldn't just take one picture! I ended up taking 100. Here, for your perusal, is a slideshow of one day in Aberdeen.

aaron goes to byu-i

2010-09-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

The first part of September, I took Aaron to BYU-Idaho. On the way we stayed with my aunt and uncle in Nampa, then with my Dad and Step-mom in Aberdeen. It was so good to see family again. My step-mom recently spent 6 weeks in the hospital, so it was especially good to see her up and about. And it's always wonderful to spend time with my Dad.

Here is Aaron in his new apartment:

The three cabarellos. These guys went through Scouts together and were part of the Fab Five that got their Eagles. Isaac and Ben subsequently moved away from Eugene and served missions as well. Now they're back together. I hope they're still smiling after a few months of togetherness.

The guys seem to have a good sense of self-esteem.

Aaron seems excited and happy to be at BYU-Idaho. We had a great time.

In the evening, we attended a luau and Polynesian dancing show for new students. So fun! Here are a couple of clips. (We were in the back of the auditorium, so the quality of the pictures aren't very good, but they're enough to give you an idea. In the second one, someone walks in front of the camera towards the beginning. Don't panic.)

"here comes the trout that must be caught with tickling"

2010-08-23T15:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure whether David caught this trout by tickling it.

He did have a good time with the Scouts on the 18th on their fishing trip.

[Apologies to William Shakespeare.]

"my Shepherd will supply my need"

2010-08-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

Heather sang a duet with Jenny S. in Sacrament Meeting on Sunday. I accompanied on the piano, and Tricia B. provided a violin accompaniment as well. It's a beautiful song. The words are by Isaac Watts; the tune is by Joseph Funk; this arrangement is by Craig McQueen. There was such a sweet spirit in the room. Click on this player to hear this lovely song:

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My Shepherd will supply my need;
Jehovah is His name.
In pastures fresh He makes me feed,
Beside the living stream.
He brings my wand'ring spirit back,
When I forsake His ways;
And leads me, for His mercy's sake,
In paths of truth and grace.

When I walk through the shades of death
Thy presence is my stay;
One word of Thy supporting breath
Drives all my fears away.
Thy hand, in sight of all my foes,
Doth still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows,
Thine oil anoints my head.

The sure provisions of my God
Attend me all my days;
O may Thy house be my abode,
And all my work be praise.
There would I find a settled rest,
While others go and come;
No more a stranger, nor a guest,
But like a child at home.

mr. fixit

2010-08-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

Nelson has been one busy guy this summer. Here is a list of things he has fixed/replaced so far:

replaced the rear struts on the Nova
installed a new dishwasher
stained some scratches on my old desk
fixed a door lock
replaced the hose timer
replaced a spray nozzle on my kitchen sink
taken out our old tub and installed a new one (See post here.)

Some of these were major endeavors! I can't imagine how much we'd have had to pay someone to do these things. I'm so blessed to have a hubby who is handy around the house, the garage, the yard.

Thank you, Sweetie!

the home of lost pens and pencils

2010-08-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

You know how you get a phone call and you need a pen or pencil to take a message and you can never find a one and you wonder where they all disappear to?

Well, I think I know...

I think they come to my house.

I don't even know where half--make that 90%-- of these came from! I am always sending pens and pencils with Nelson to school. Either they are multiplying in my pencil holder or they are coming by way of a black hole from your place to mine...

rub-a-dub-dub. i see a new tub

2010-07-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

For my birthday, Nelson made me this card, and proceeded to go to work:

Here is why we needed a new one:

We had refinished it ourselves a couple of years ago. But now great flakes of paint were peeling up. Disgusting.

Nelson hard at work. He did everything himself: removed the old caulking, took off a row of tile, removed the old tub, put in the new tub, put in the new tile, caulking, etc.

And here is the result of all his hard work! A sparkly, lovely bathtub I'd even like to take a bath in.

Aren't I lucky/blessed to have a guy who can do this?

disneyland!

2010-07-26T16:48:00.000-07:00

Early this month, we took a much-needed vacation to Disneyland! Nelson and I took David and his friend Kyle. (Aaron and Heather stayed home for work.) We flew out of Eugene the evening of the 4th, which was fun, because as we flew into LAX, we saw neighborhood fireworks all over the city! We saw more fireworks as our shuttle took us to our motel, which was only a couple of blocks from the resort. The weather was perfect: overcast and a little cool, which is perfect Disneyland weather in my book. We got to spend 3-1/2 days in the parks (Disneyland and California Adventures.) My feet and back wore out, but it was still a lot of fun. We flew back to hotter weather than we left!

That's kind of a weird place to leave the slideshow, but you can get your money back at the gate, if you wish.

Nelson and the boys did Splash Mountain. Funny thing: I was standing watching the final splashdown, waiting for them because I don't do Splash Mountain. As each car made the plunge, you would hear this high-pitched "e-e-e-e-e-e!" When our guys came down, all I could hear was Nelson's deep "A-A-A-A-A-GH"!" The lady next to me laughed and said, "That was good." Here's the video. (Something funny with the sound though; it sounds too high.)

One of our favorite attractions is the barbershop quartet, The Dapper Dans. Here's a fun clip:

One thing I love about Disneyland is how the characters interact with the public. More of the Dapper Dans:

We saw them again on our last morning at the park. I didn't get pictures of World of Color (over-rated), or of Small World (although the song stayed in my head for a long time), or of Fantasmic, or of some other stuff. But sometimes you have to decide whether to look at the park behind a camera lens or just go with the flow and enjoy it.

All in all, it was a great trip!

"stop, thief!"

2010-07-16T15:58:00.001-07:00

Had a mini-adventure at Win-Co yesterday. Got out of the car and saw someone run past me through the parking lot. An elderly lady was following the person, saying, "Stop! Come back!" but not very loudly. Then I noticed the runner had a purse. I knew I couldn't chase the thief, but I could yell.

"Stop, thief! Stop that runner!" I yelled. "He's got a lady's purse. Stop that runner!" I actually yelled several times.

I think my shouting attracted some attention, because this big guy went tearing after the runner and caught her. (It was a gal in a baseball cap.) He held by her arm and took the purse and gave it to the elderly lady, who had come up to them. The thief looked like she was high. The catcher settled her down and had her sit on the curb while he called 9-1-1.

The elderly lady walked off, so I did too. Whew! I was so glad the purse snatcher didn't get away!

It took a while for my heart to quit pounding and my adrenaline to settle back down.

So, you never know when you'll be in the midst of a mini-adventure, even going grocery shopping. The best kind have happy endings.

Stake Pioneer Trek--June 23-26, 2010

2010-06-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

This summer, our stake sponsored its first pioneer handcart trek for the youth. David turned 12 this spring, so he could go. He invited his friend Kyle to go too. Nelson and I went as base camp volunteers, where we helped with food, program, and other behind-the-scenes things. We went to the Bing Canyon Pioneer Camp in southeastern Washington State. The temperatures were in the 90s most every day, although the nights cooled down nicely. I think the trekkers learned that they could do things they never thought they could do. We all came away with a greater appreciation for the pioneers and all they did. We also came to appreciate nice beds and hot and cold running water. Here is a slide show of some of the highlights:

everything's just ducky!

2010-05-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

For the past three days, our backyard has hosted a pair of mallards. In fact, on Sunday, there were three, then four ducks: this pair and two additional drakes. One drake seemed especially interested in the little duck, even though she has a limp. He would sit off to the side, then slowly try to sneak over to her. But this drake (with the saucy little feather sticking out) chased any would-be wooers away with much flapping of wings and lowering of beak and much general bravery.

They let David get amazingly close with his bread crumbs. The duck was more interested than the drake. The drake seemed concerned, so if the duck got too close, he would nip her on her behind.

"I am one brave duck, no? You don't mess with my woman!"

"Here's quacking at you, kid!"
(What a flirt!)

Zuppa Toscana updated

2010-05-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

By popular demand:

Zuppa Toscana

1-1/2 C. spicy sausage
2 med. potatoes, cut in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/4-inch slices
3/4 C. onions, diced
6 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
1-1/4 tsp. minced garlic
2 C. kale leaves, cut in half then sliced
2 Tbsp. chicken base
1 quart water
1/3 C. heavy whipping cream

Preheat oven to 300°. Spead sausage onto large baking sheet and bake for 25 min.

Place onions and bacon into large saucepan and cook over medium heat until onions are almost clear. Add garlic and cook another minute. Add chicken base, water and potatoes and simmer 15 minutes. Add sausage, kale and cream and simmer 4 more minutes.

Serves 5.

Disclaimer: I haven't made this yet, so I can't personally vouch for the recipe. But with bacon and cream, it sounds promising!

*UPDATE* We had this soup last night, and it was AMAZING! Everyone loved it. I used a whole pound of Italian sausage, which turned out to be 2 cups. (Who wants to mess around with a half a cup of leftover sausage?) Baking it in the oven was interesting. I'm wondering if I could just fry it up in my electric skillet. Kale turns out to be pretty tasty. Try this soup!

Greens Challenged

2010-05-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

Nelson tasted a marvelous soup at school on Thursday. (They were having teacher appreciation week.) He was so excited about it that he got the recipe from the gal who made it. Turns out it's Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana. Nelson had to have it this week!

So Friday I go to WinCo to do my regular shopping and I get to the produce department, because one of the ingredients is kale. I'm standing there in front of all these green ... things ... all in neat piles. WinCo plasters the signs about what costs how much all over, with no rhyme or reason or coordination with what in in the bins below. And suddenly it hits me:

I don't know what kale looks like!

Oh, dear! ... That's probably red chard because of the red lines going through it. That looks like some kind of cabbage. Maybe? This looks a lot like the cabbage, but it has fewer leaves and more stem. I pick that up and tentatively put it in the bag. A little voice says that is not kale. I take it back out. All kinds of knowledgeable people are confidently picking up greens and putting them in their bags. I stand there. Do I look like Rachel Ray pondering the possibilities? Only I know that I am greens challenged. ... I know those are leeks, so that's good. What's that curly stuff? Is any of this labeled on those twistie thingies they put on them? Not that one... Hmmm..... There's one labeled "collards." Fortunately, I look again at the curly stuff and it has a twistie thingie that says "kale" upside down. Hurrah! I can make Zuppa Toscana!

And now I know what kale looks like.

In case you're interested:

Then again, you're probably not greens challenged.

welcome home, elder farrier!

2010-02-04T09:25:00.001-08:00

Monday, February 1, Aaron returned home from his mission in the Monterrey Mexico East Mission. At first, he was scheduled to arrive at 8:15 pm. Then he called to say he'd missed his connecting flight in Portland and would arrive at 11:00 pm. Yikes! Super late. Then he called again to say he'd been rerouted and would arrive at 10:30. Almost on the dot, his plane arrived and he made his way down the stairs.

David made this fun sign to welcome him.
I especially like the little Mexican missionary in the middle.

Some wonderful friends from the ward were there to meet him. Some even beat us to the airport! And they came back when he was delayed. They brought little children. They were so supportive. It was a bit overwhelming for the newly-returned missionary, who wasn't quite sure what to do or to say. But it made him very happy. Thank you, Everyone!

Aaron brought back a sombrero for David,
and belts for David and for Dad.
It's a cool look for them both, don't you think?

More photos are to be seen on my facebook page. Check them out here.

my pioneer son

2010-01-14T09:44:00.001-08:00

Last night was the Pioneer Trek Fashion Show. David looked great in his workman's smock!

Here he is with his pioneer buddy, Ryan:

The Denier vs. the Consensus

2009-12-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

Galileo was an earth-centered-universe denier. In this year, the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s building of the first powerful astronomical telescope, it is good to look at his life and legacy.

The scientific, political, and religious “consensus” in his day was that the earth stood still and the universe revolved around it. This was Ptolemy’s theory. Because of the things he saw through his telescope, Galileo championed the theory of Copernicus that the earth and all the planets revolve around the sun. Because his views did not match the “consensus,” he was required to recant his views and spend the rest of his life under house arrest.

Scientists of the day had it all worked out: their models explained the motions of the planets and stars as they saw them. It was neat and tidy. There was just one problem:

The “consensus” was wrong.
The “denier” was right.

Thank you, Galileo.

I'm a fan of...

2009-11-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

Want a nice way to support military troops and their families this Christmas? Click on the picture above to go to the American Red Cross website about Holiday Mail for Heroes. The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes have teamed up to help provide some holiday cheer for service members and veterans here and serving abroad. From now through December 7, they are collecting cards and will distribute them in time for Christmas.

(Don't confuse this with those viral email stories about sending mail to Walter Reed Hospital. Those are not for real. This is.)

I'm a fan of...

2009-10-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

preservatives in my cosmetics! Check this out:

Eww!!

road bullies

2009-10-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

What is up with road bullies? I am amazed when some guy or gal gets behind me, rides my bumper, and seems irritated that I don't want to go 10 miles over the speed limit! If these people are in crowded halls, do they just push their way through with their elbows?

Wednesday coming back from Portland, I came upon a line of 3 or 4 trucks, going a bit under the speed limit. I wanted to keep at 65, so I pulled into the left lane. Not in front of anyone. Gradually, I was making my way past them. Suddenly, up on my bumper comes this gal, determined to go through me, I guess. When I didn't speed up, she crept closer and closer. Finally, I did get past the truck, but wanted to wait to get back into the right lane until I could see both headlights of the truck in my rearview mirror. I was taught to do that because it is dangerous to pull right in front of a big semi. Well! Apparently that infuriated my tail-gater even more, because she came even closer, and as soon as she barely cleared the truck, she whipped into the right lane (right in front of the truck), laid on her horn, and (as I could see but thankfully not hear) began shouting "colorful language" as she drove past.

What is with these people? Who gave them the right to demand that I exceed the speed limit? Who gave them the right to demand that I endanger my life, my son's life, and the life of a truck-driver so that they can blast down the highway at any speed they want?

I am sick to death of road bullies.

the angel-mobile

2009-10-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

Heather has a parakeet named Angel. She's a funny old bird. David and his friend Kyle made a Lego truck for her to ride around in. She seems to like it!

Wheeeee!

72-hour food kits

2009-10-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, I found an idea for putting your 72-hour food kits into clean, un-used paint cans. You can pick up the cans for way cheap at any paint store. (Also get the little gizmo that opens the can. Tape it to the side.) The paint cans are nice because they have handles, so if you have to walk out, you can carry your food. You'll want a jug of water to go with it.

For about $10 per person, you can fill a can with survival food. (You CostCo gals can probably do it for even less.) Not great cuisine and not lots, but enough to survive. Here's what I bought today:

Notice that I've taped a piece of sand paper to the inside of the lid. That's for striking matches on. Also note that I've printed out the contents of the can and a daily menu. You can view those here.

It takes a little planning to get it all in. I start with the largest thing, the soup can. (Mine's a pop-top, btw.) Then place things around it.

For the next layer, I put in the cup, filled with crackers and matches, then the juice box. Then fill around those.

Lastly, drop in the menu and the list of contents.

Close the tops, label, and Voilà! 72-hour food kits, ready for storage!

I'm thankful for...

2009-10-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

... Answered prayers!

Today, the sister missionaries asked me to go with them to an appointment, which I was glad to do. I got dressed, and with a few minutes to spare, I did some other things.

Then, when it was time to go...I couldn't find my keys! Panic! I knew they were in the house, because I went out earlier today and somehow made it home. I checked my purse, my coat pocket, my pants pocket, my dresser, my night-stand, my desk, the kitchen counter, the computer desk, even the ignition of the car. No luck. Time was getting short, and I needed to leave!

I dropped to my knees and explained my situation to the Lord. I wanted to help His missionaries. I told Him where I had searched. Please help! I stood up, with no clear answer. As I walked over to my purse, the thought came to me to check the side pocket of my purse where I usually keep my cell phone and my PDA. I never put my keys there. There they were! Thank you, Heavenly Father!

Lost keys? Cliché, I know. But true. It may have been a little thing, but I like to think that our Heavenly Father wanted me to be there for the sisters and the lady they were teaching.

I'm a fan of...

2009-10-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

...Evaporation!

Ok, this will sound silly, but, think about it. Besides being essential to the water cycle on the earth, making life possible at all,
(can you say "besides" when you're talking about making life possible at all?)
it is so wonderful on a daily basis! And so easy to take for granted.

I can wash my dishes, stack them in a drainer, and come back in a few hours. Voila! My dishes are dry and ready to be put away! It just happens! I don't have to expend any energy at all. I can hang up a damp towel or shirt, come back later, and, voila again! It's dry! And all it took was time.

Think about it.

♫ "...and the other gold" ♫

2009-10-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

old friends...

It's amazing how you can reconnect with old friends and it's like you were never apart--despite the years.

After leaving Idaho on my trip to take Heather to BYU-Idaho, I drove to Washington state to reconnect with a couple of old friends. I stayed the night in Baker City, then drove up through eastern Washington and over to the Seattle area.

(Let me tell you--Eastern Washington is a wasteland! Thank goodness the Lord didn't send the Mormon pioneers there! It made Utah look like a lush garden. I digress...)

Growing up, my best friend was Arlynn. We met in Primary when we were three years old, and we soon became inseparable. Salt and pepper. Mustard and ketchup. Kathy and Arlynn.

Doesn't she look like fun? She was. I could do a whole blog about our adventures together. Our birthdays are only a week apart, so we kinda felt like twins. Then we kinda grew apart during the teen years. But that tie from our childhood remained.

All by myself (thank you very much), I drove to her place. Seattle traffic is way scary. (I guess I didn't do it all by myself. The Lord definitely helped me.)

For two days we talked and laughed and reminisced. We're both older and life has happened. She's had some tough times. Now she's looking happy. Good husband. Two great boys.

Wayne, Arlynn, Patrick (her other son is married and lives in Rexburg)

Things I love about Arlynn: great sense of humor, tender soul, willingness to forgive, looks for the good in others, caring about others, creative sense of fun, desire to be a peacemaker, love of family, infectious laugh, makes me feel like I'm someone special.

After leaving Arlynn, I wanted to drive to my other friend's place, on Whidbey Island. That meant taking the ferry. I was nervous about getting on the ferry, but the ticket taker gave me some good advice: "Just go with the flow. Piece of cake." I kept repeating that to myself as I drove into the line and up into the boat. Here's my view from inside the ferry:

The guy was right--piece of cake.

Then off to find my friend Lilian. She was my greenie when I served my mission. Here she is in Cologne. (Can you figure out what this sign meant? We couldn't.)
Lilian was a fun companion. A native Cuban, her German had a bit of Spanish accent. She liked to count Cocker Spaniels; she sliced bananas into the bottom of her soup; she would buy a large chocolate bar and make it last all week. (I ate mine in a couple of seconds.) (Fun fact: Her last city was my first city. She got to see a lady baptized that I found by tracting.) After our missions, we roomed together at BYU for a year.

Many years have gone by since we'd seen each other, but, as with Arlynn, we picked up right where we'd left off. She showed me around the sights of Whidbey Island. Beautiful. We spent two days talking, reminiscing, and catching up. It was so good. She's been through a lot, too, including cancer. But she's well, now.

Lilian and I in beautiful Coupeville.

The view from Deception Pass Bridge.

The view from the hills above Deception Pass.

Things I love about Lilian: ENTHUSIASM!, great people skills, deep desire to please her Heavenly Father, sense of humor, great laugh, tender heart, insightful, makes me feel like I'm someone special.

After leaving Lilian, I drove the six-hour drive home. So, I was gone a total of two weeks. Saw family, friends. Reconnected in many ways. It was a trip that did my heart good.

♫ "Make new friends and keep the old. One is silver..." ♫

cemetery sleuthing

2009-10-03T16:41:00.000-07:00

After leaving Heather at BYU-Idaho, I decided to drive around the countryside and go visit my grandparents' gravesites. Both my parents were raised not far from Rexburg. My mom's parents, Walter and Velma Siddoway lived on a farm just outside the village of Teton and were buried in the Teton Cemetery. This little cemetery is located away from the little town itself, out in the middle of farm land. Once I located the cemetery, I had to tromp around a bit to find "Grammie and Grandad." And suddenly, there they were. We had a nice chat.

My dad's parents (Davidsons) farmed on what is called Egin Bench. They were buried in nearby Parker. So, it was off to Parker, to find my Davidson grandparents. I was less sure how to get there, but found a sign:

Parker is literally a curve in the road with a grade school, a post office, and a cluster of houses.

The Parker cemetery is right next to the highway, near the elementary school and the post office. Parker people must want to be able to visit their kin more easily than do Teton people. The cemetery straddles a little hill. I remember standing there when we buried my grandfather--the wind was blowing as we gathered around and laid him to rest. My notion of what things were important made a major shift that day... On this day, I had to tromp around a long time to find "Grandma and Grandpa." Then suddenly, there they were. We had a nice chat, too.

My most interesting find of the day was a couple of headstones in Chinese! I wondered: Who were these people? How did they come to be here in Parker, Idaho? Do they still have family here? Does anyone know they were here?

Anyone read Chinese?

taking Heather to byu-idaho

2009-09-30T19:47:00.001-07:00

Early this month I drove Heather to Idaho to attend BYU-Idaho. Our first stop was my Aunt Shirley and Uncle Robert's house, where we spent the night.

Don't they look like nice people? They are. My aunt is my mother's twin sister--and many people have confused them over the years. I guess my mother's undertaker nearly passed out when my aunt walked into the viewing. My Aunt Karen and Uncle Gene came over for a visit while we were there, along with my cousin Shawna. I didn't get pics, though.

Here we are in front of their house. Don't we look happy? Even after driving 10 hours together?

Heather made me buy her this shirt, which I couldn't resist, because she does look awfully cute in it. We had fun shopping together in Pocatello. This is in my Dad & Stepmom's kitchen.

Here we are with my Dad and Stepmom in front of their house. Don't they look like nice people? They are.

That night we drove to Rexburg, where we stayed in a motel. Up early the next morning and off to campus. Standing in long lines. (Sitting for a while in one line.) Getting dorm room assignment. Getting ID card. Signing up for new-student-activity team. Off to the dorm.

Heather found her room.

Unpacked. Where to put it all? There is closet space behind the mirror!

Was glad to get things in place.

Met her roommate. Doesn't she look nice? She is.

We went to a student/parent luau that night. Way fun. Polynesian dancing, singing. Even fire juggling! Pretty good food.

Heather spent the night in her new home. I went back to the motel. The next morning I went back up on campus. Final good-byes. "No crying, Mom!" So, just a bit of tearing up. A hug. Turning around and walking away. Letting go is hard. Maybe I'll blog about that sometime.

She'll do great!

going home

2009-09-29T17:09:00.000-07:00

It's a weird thing when the places of your past take on mythic qualities and seem to have meaning beyond expression. In taking Heather to BYU-Idaho, I stayed in Aberdeen, my little home town, for a few days. I grew up a couple of miles outside of town--many long years ago. My dad lives in town with my step-mom now.

It's odd to walk around and see no one I knew or who knew me. It's equally odd to go to church and see old faces grown older, grown up children with children of their own, brand new faces.

I still have dreams about the road that led out from town to our farm. Sometimes I'm walking to the farm from town or vice versa, either in a snow storm or along a weird, tree-lined road. Sometimes I'm driving, but can't see where I'm going. They paved that road recently. In all my years growing up, I prayed every summer that they would pave the bumpy gravel road so I could ride my bicycle into town or to my best friend's house without being rattled to death . They never did--except now they did.

The people who bought my dad's house on the farm have taken out the garden spot and several of the trees. They've put up a new chain-link fence across the front. The barn is gone. The corrals are gone.

Aberdeen is a tiny oasis of trees and streets and houses amidst rich farmland. Potatoes, of course, and sugar beets, and wheat. Giant sprinkler systems irrigate this arid volcanic plain. Beyond the fields stretch miles of sagebrush and lava rocks.

In town, the elementary school and middle school are both new. The high school has been remodeled past recognition. There is now a one-way street past the schools, which seems ridiculous. Many of the buildings on Main Street are empty. The Villager no longer sells clothes. The Western Auto went out of business years ago. The one-time bank is a neat little senior center. The "frosty stand" is empty and black. There are businesses there--farm implements, computer services, groceries, a store, a post office. Vicentes' old bar is still there.

This little town has a five-lane highway down Main Street and a speed limit of 25 mph. No stop-light. No traffic. It's not really on the way anywhere. If you go to Aberdeen, it's because you're going there.

When I go back to Aberdeen, I feel like a girl again--I guess I feel like I did when I left there: an insecure teenager launching out into the world. I've forgotten many of the people I once knew. I'm sure many have forgotten me.

In my mind, I can revisit so many inconsequential places there. Somehow the dirt, the sagebrush, the rocks, the fields, the roads, the buildings all mean something. I wish I knew what.

Alsea Falls

2009-08-23T18:43:00.001-07:00

Have you been to Alsea Falls? It's a beautiful and fun place for a day trip. We went last Wednesday when it was sooooo hot in Eugene. Picnic. Teensy hike to the falls.

David and his friend had a ball.

Nelson got a much-needed break from the phone.

Heather and friend found a bat!

Wheeee!!

After a while we took a more strenuous hike to Green Peak Falls, about a mile away, over rough and varied terrain. Nearly got heat exhaustion. But it was beautiful, too. See?

A lovely, memorable get-away.

She is a natural blonde ....

2009-07-08T19:19:00.001-07:00

So, Heather is at a friend's house with a group watching "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" One of the actors starts talking about getting a bikini wax. Heather asks:

(wait for it)

"Why would anyone want to wax a bikini???"

graduation #2!

2009-06-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

David was so excited to graduate from 5th Grade! Can you see the pride in his eyes? He's really looking forward to middle school and playing in the band (trumpet). We're proud of him for doing so well, so far!

graduation #1!

2009-06-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

She did it! My "little girl" isn't so little anymore. She's come a long way since Kindergarten. Still the same sweet smile, same sweet eyes. Always a "do it myself!" kind of girl . We're so proud of her. There were tears at graduation. Now, off to the next adventure!

dinner "conversation" last night at the Bishop's house

2009-06-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered about the deep theological discussions that take place around the Bishop's table?

Click here for the deep profundity.

Heather's voice recital

2009-05-30T07:19:00.000-07:00

After taking voice lessons for three years from her current teacher, Shirley Andress, Heather was in a voice recital Wednesday evening. She sang "La Vie en Rose" by Guglielmi and Piaf. You can listen to her by clicking here. (You may have to turn your sound up.) This was only her second recital.

We think she did a great job. She plans to study music education at BYU-Idaho, and we think she's off to a great start! [busting buttons here]

Heather juggles eggs

2009-05-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

In an ongoing attempt to help my daughter audition for the circus, I present the following:

Brownsville

2009-05-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

If you love old towns, antiques, history, pioneers, or anything like that, you must go see Brownsville. We've often driven past the sign on the freeway, inviting us to see Brownsville, but have never gone. This past Saturday, I had the opportunity to go with Lennae and family to help celebrate Lennae's birthday. What a great time we had!

Wade and Lennae in front on the Moyer House, a highlight of the historic tour. Believe it or not, that is NOT a tree behind them. It is a wisteria plant! It was huge!

The Moyer House.

For the amazingly low suggested donation of $2 (!) apiece, we were given a tour of this lovely Victorian home, complete with period furniture and wall and ceiling treatments. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and fun to listen to. (I was particularly interested in the two victrolas and the cylinder player--each still playable!) Then we toured the museum, where you can see a bank, a barber shop, a beauty parlor, a covered wagon complete with contents, and more and more. It was packed with antique things, all arranged and organized and labeled. A woman from the Smithsonian visited there recently and said that the Brownsville Museum was every bit as good as the Smithsonian, just smaller.

After our tour and museum browsing, we had lunch in a delightful little restaurant that was a converted home. We were the only customers and got excellent service.

If you're interested, you'll want to check out historicbrownsville.com. They have lots of attractions and activities throughout the year. I want to go back!

5th grade track meet

2009-05-28T07:32:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, the 21st, 4j held their elementary school track meet. David had a good time.

David and friends await their turn at the long jump.

A happy David with a second place ribbon for the long jump. He also participated in the shot put and softball throw.

2009-05-12T08:23:00.001-07:00

elder aaron spork

2009-04-22T08:52:00.000-07:00

Heather is such a creative gal! She made this little guy to send to Aaron. Here he is in action:

Wonder if he'll find any investigators....

a couple of milestones

2009-04-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a big day for David.

In the morning, he participated in a "cross-over" at the Scout Family Carnival. He crossed over from being a Cub Scout to being a Boy Scout. They had a rope bridge set up for the boys to cross--and on the other side they were met by Scout leaders--in the case of David and his friend, Ethan, their dads. End of one era. Start of another.

Some happy Cubs.

The ceremony included some Native American-style activity.

David almost ran across the bridge. (Being spotted by an older Scout.)

Two new Boy Scouts.

The other milestone actually was on Friday, when David turned eleven. But he and his friend, Ethan, had a joint birthday party at Putters on Saturday afternoon. Lots of good putting action. Friends. Cake. Gifts. Arcade games.

David and his golfing buddies.

Mom made a cake.

Make a wish!

Mom's wish: that time didn't fly by so fast...

David's Roadrunner Award

2009-04-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

At today's Roadrunner Assembly, David received an award for being responsible. He does a good job completing his homework.
(with just a little encouragement from mom)

Here he is with his teacher, and his friends Tom (who also received an award) and Kyle. Way to go!

the most inspirational thing I've seen in a long time

2009-04-13T11:41:00.001-07:00

Please, please go watch this YouTube video. It brought me to tears.

Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent.

look who came to visit

2009-04-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

So, we peeked out to our front yard the other day, and we had guests:

I was going to title this "Make way for ducklings," but there weren't any babies. Just Mr. and Mrs. Duck, taking their rest on our lawn, watching folks walk to and from the park. They looked so content.

spring cherry blossoms

2009-04-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

Against the backdrop
Of fathoms of airy blue
Pink blossoms shining

i'm not sure what to call this

2009-04-08T18:46:00.001-07:00

David earns his Webelos and Arrow of Light

2009-04-01T08:46:00.001-07:00

David has worked hard the last few weeks (as have his parents and his Cub Scout leader), and last night he was awarded his last activity badges and his Webelos award. He got to carry the flag for the opening flag ceremony:

Lots of good marching action.

A pleased-looking young man.

Of course, there was the pinning of the mom. (Or her shirt, anyway.)

He also earned his Arrow of Light award, which was presented in a solemn Native American-style ceremony. We're awfully proud of him.

This is our last pack meeting. [sigh] David turns 11 this month and will move on to Boy Scouts. End of an era.

a whale of a good time--now with sound!

2009-03-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

(If you click here, you can now hear a recording of the waves, our whale-watching guide, and of some of the other watchers that day.)

In all the years we've lived in Oregon, we've never gone whale-watching. So, yesterday we took off and gave it a try. We stopped at a look-out just north of Sea Lion Caves and looked out to sea. The day was lovely--no wind, just a few sprinkles of rain, not too much fog.

Nelson scanning the horizon for spouts.

Heather took a turn with the binoculars.

A brave gull that let me get pretty close.

David and Nelson fed the brave gull.

The good news is that we all got to see at least some spouts. A very nice whale-watching guide (you can see her in the video) lent David some binoculars, so he saw a tail and more. Way fun.

sixth picture

2009-03-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from Cari's blog. The idea is to pick the sixth picture from the sixth sub-folder in your picture folder. So, here's mine--and there is a story behind it.

Some time ago (before this quilt), I wanted to make a quilt for Aaron. For the back, I found some really cute fabric with cows. It was darling. But when I brought it home, the men in the house had a...well, a cow. [sigh] So I put it away for future use.

Isn't this cute?

Fast forward a couple of years: When I was RS pres, we were assigned to make a quilt for Deseret Industries. I had assigned a quilt specialist, but she moved before she could finish it. Also, she had made a top that was basically a light blue rectangle inside of a dark blue rectangle. Now, I cannot tie a quilt without squares or something to use as a guide. So, I took it apart and remade it. I had some red fabric on hand, and I had this adorable cow fabric. The colors were just right. I still like how it turned out.

Post script: Heather found some extra squares from the quilt project and made me this adorable pillow. So I can still enjoy those darling cows.

a star is born

2009-03-02T14:45:00.000-08:00

Heather is second female lead in Churchill High School's production of Once Upon a Mattress. We went opening night last Saturday. She did so well!

Lady Larken and Sir Harry.

Isn't she lovely?

Grandma was so proud of her--as were we all.

blue and gold

2009-03-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday evening was the Cub Scout Blue and Gold dinner.
The theme was Route 66.

David was awarded some activity badges.

The highlight of the evening was the cake auction. David designed and made the cake shown at the top of this post. Of course, we HAD to buy the cake. David was worried that we wouldn't get it. lol We got the cake. In fact, David just finished the last piece.

2009-02-27T12:29:00.001-08:00

What a great surprise I got today as I went to check my mail. Tucked between my screen door and my front door was a package from a publishing company. "What did I order that I've forgotten about?" I thought. So I opened it.

Well!

It was a complimentary copy of the just-published Worldwide Ward Cookbook by Deanna Buxton, published by Covenant Communications (available here). Many months ago, someone (maybe YOU) sent me an email, saying that this lady was collecting recipes for this project and would I like to submit a recipe. Those whose recipes were used would receive a free copy of the book. On a whim, I submitted one of my favorite recipes, one for New England Apple Pie. Check out page 297! :-D

I had vowed to never buy a cookbook again, but if you want a really neat one, this is it. It has a kitchen-cabinet-full of recipes from New Zealand, Ghana, Germany, Hawaii, South Africa, Israel, Argentina, Oregon, Arizona, Salt Lake City, Georgia--the list goes and on and on. Some of the recipes have pictures of the submitters or stories to go with them. I'm excited to look through the book and find something yummy to try out!

Maybe Tatws Pum Munud from Wales, or Shipwreck from Portugal, or Fruit Cobbler from Alabama, or Ezra Taft Benson's Lemon Meringue Pie, or Jenny's Salsa Chicken, or Kalua Pork from Hawaii, or Iraqi Rice, or Tortellini Salad from Utah....

(Didn't see green jello with shredded carrots.)

hope

2009-02-17T13:26:00.001-08:00

Look what I found in our front yard today! Spring will come ... eventually.

di quilt squares

2009-02-13T14:20:00.001-08:00

Earlier this year, I decided it would be fun to make a quilt for Deseret Industries. Some sisters expressed desires to help me, so last night at Enrichment meeting we sewed strips together and made some 4-patch squares. It's going to be a scrappy quilt, as you can see. Look at all we got done! It's a great start. Thank you, everyone!

Pinewood Derby!

2009-02-01T08:29:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again! Actually, this will be David's last Pinewood Derby. :-(
He's made some pretty cool cars.

He designed this one all by himself, actually modeling it after his mom's cell phone.

Don't know how many MPG (minutes per gallon) he gets.

There were a lot of really cool cars in the race.

The excitement at the finish line was pretty high.

David came in fourth, so no trophy. But he was a good sport and had a lot of fun.

David also received his Citizenship and Fitness badges. We're quite proud of him.

dried minced garlic update

2009-01-27T08:27:00.001-08:00

It's back!! So, after ranting here about the lack of dried minced garlic at WinCo, I found they had hidden it! When I went to buy some bulk lemon pepper on Friday, I found the garlic on the top row, far away from the bottom row where the garlic power, garlic salt, and granulated garlic are. Do. not. ask. me. why. they would separate these, except to give a frustrated housewife something to blog about...

i'm a ham!

2009-01-21T20:10:00.000-08:00

No, really. I passed my exam and am now a licensed ham radio operator.

KE7ZKD

73 (That's ham talk for Best Regards)!

stuff i like

2009-01-20T16:34:00.001-08:00

I have been on the search for THE perfect ice-cube tray, or at least one that actually lets you get the ice cubes out without losing your mind. The ones I've bought in the grocery store look OK, but when it's time to get the cubes out, I'm twisting, I'm turning, I'm running hot water over the bottom of the tray and having the cubes fall into the sink. Argh!

Then, at Bed, Bath, and Beyond, I found these great trays by the OXO company (no idea if it's any reference to hugs and kisses). BUT, I was ready to kiss them when I first tried them. They have a cover, which can be a little tricky putting on with water in the tray. (See below for how to work around that.) But when the cubes froze and I was ready to pop them out, just a delicate tiny twist, and *voila*! They all loosened at once! And because there is a cover, they didn't shoot all over the room, either! An extra bonus: The cover is made with this little lip, so that you can tip out exactly how many cubes you want--even just one!

These are THE ice-cube trays for me.

(Now about putting the lid on with water in the tray: Don't remove the cover all the way. Push it half-way to one side and fill the open half. Then set the tray down and gently move the cover half-way to the other side and fill the second half. Then set the tray down again and move the cover to the center. Carefully carry the tray to the freezer.)

Our New Family History Blog

2009-01-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

For many years I've been collecting family histories and family photos of my ancestors. It's been a lot of fun and I've had some adventures and surprises along the way.

Just recently, it occurred to me that I could post these histories and photos to a blog, and then they would be available on the Internet to others, particularly other descendants of my ancestors.

So I am hereby announcing the debut of "Where We Came From," a blog for our family to post life histories and photos of our ancestors, Farrier and Davidson. I invite you to check it out--who knows, maybe we are related!

I've just started uploading the stories and pictures--one of my goals this year is to finish this project.

(Sidenote: Don't laugh about being related. When we first moved to our ward, I was asked to give a talk on my "spiritual heritage." I decided to tell some stories from my ancestors. After Church, a sister whom we'd started to be friends with said, "Hey, those were stories from my ancestors!" We discovered that our dads are first cousins! Small world.)

David's 15 Minutes of Fame

2009-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

I about fell over when I got this in my mail last week. It makes me smile.
(They autographed it because they are so "cool".)
:-D

New Year's Resolutions Poll Results

2009-01-04T08:58:00.001-08:00

I'm so impressed. A full 80% of you said you plan to make New Year's resolutions this year! There's a lot of self-improvement going on out there. Good luck to you all! May the new year bring you much success and many blessings!

Recycle those Christmas cards

2008-12-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

Hey, want to do something nice while you clean up after Christmas? St. Jude's Ranch for Children accepts used Christmas cards, from which the children make recycled cards by removing the front and attaching a new back. (The fronts can't have any writing on them, obviously.) They then sell the cards to help support the ranch. You can send cards to this address until February 28:

St. Jude's Ranch for Children
Card Recycling Program
100 St. Jude's Street
Boulder City, NV 89005

Also, you can order cards from them for next year!

New Year's Resolutions Poll!

2008-12-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

I used to make new year's resolutions faithfully every year. As a teen-ager, I would take a pad of paper and a pencil and sit on my bed, contemplating that blank slate that was the upcoming 12 months and ponder how to improve myself and my life. On my mission, we had to make goals every week, so I kind of got in the habit even more. When I returned to college, I would make goals in various areas of my life: physical (exercise daily), spiritual (read my scriptures, pray daily), social (invite X number of people over), educational (get an A in Victorian Lit.), etc.

But life got more hectic, and my main resolution has turned into: sustain life and endure to the end. ha! I'm thinking about making some resolutions again this year, though (exercise daily, read my scriptures, pray daily.....).

Will you be making any new year's resolutions this year? Please participate in my poll to the right there. You could even share them in a comment, if you wished.

Dr. Seuss vs. Charles Schultz

2008-12-23T10:06:00.000-08:00

I love watching the Christmas cartoons every year. They take me back to my childhood when I first saw them. Two of my favorites are "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "A Charlie Brown Christmas." But this year, I've realized that they show two different views about what makes Christmas special.

The Grinch did learn a valuable lesson: Christmas comes without ribbons, tags, packages, boxes, or bags. It doesn't come from a store. "As long as we have hands to clasp," runs the song in the video version. It implies that the spirit of Christmas is the spirit of family and community.

So is that what we are celebrating when we celebrate Christmas? Family? Friends? Communities? Peace? Love? Giving and generosity? All those are wonderful things. But, what if I had no family? or friends? What if my community were torn by strife and hatred? What if I had nothing to give? Where do these good things come from?

I think Charlie Brown learns a deeper message. Linus recites:

And there were in the same country shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks by night.

And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shown round about them, and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men."

(Luke 2:8-14)

Charles Schultz got it right. The Savior and His divine mission is what gives meaning to the holiday season. He is the "true vine," the source of all those good things we enjoy at Christmas. We celebrate Him and His divine mission.

That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Yes, We Have No Minced Garlic

2008-12-22T20:34:00.000-08:00

Now, I have used dried minced garlic in my cooking for years. I am no Martha Stewart--I don't buy fresh garlic and mince my own. I don't care for the bottled fresh minced garlic. I like the convenience of the dried stuff. Easy to store. Lasts nearly forever. Way good.

BUT, within the last two months, suddenly, I can't find dried minced garlic at WinCo! It's not in the spice section. It's not in the bulk spice section. I can find garlic powder, garlic salt, dried sliced garlic, granulated garlic, minced onions--but not my beloved minced garlic. Why have the powers that be abandoned it?

Today I went to Fred Meyer and found the last two bottles of dried minced garlic on the shelf for an outrageous price. I bought them both.

So, if you can enlighten me on the sudden disappearance of dried minced garlic, I would greatly appreciate it!

Guest Post--Nelson's review of Twilight

2008-12-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

First--I am going to get so much flack about this from the guys at church...

I liked it. It was romantic and suspenseful. I like to read things that my students find popular. I have several, including a few boys, who now are reading the series and a couple who went to the opening night theater show.

The author did a good job developing likable characters and a realistic plot--aside from the vampire thing. I was surprised that there were several vampire characters that were noble and enjoyable to read about. She ended it well too: I wasn't sure quite what was going to happen. It left unanswered questions, but still provided a satisfying resolution. I do wonder, however, if girls really think and dream as much about relationships as the book suggests...

I would recommend this book to my students and women I know, though not necessarily to some of my friends with season tickets to ball games.

(Many thanks to our guest poster, Nelson, for his insightful review and willingness to share on this blog.) :-D

Card Towers

2008-12-19T19:06:00.000-08:00

In addition to Heather's other talents, she has learned to build towers of cards. Here she is with one she made the other night.

Then she decided to build on a larger scale:

Wanting to find out how much weight the tower would hold, she put a dish on top and began adding marbles, eventually getting to 125. So far, so good:

The 126th marble, though, proved to be just one too many:

If I were brilliant, I would come up with how this is an analogy with life or something. But I'm not. So I won't. It was just a fun project.

What was that question?

2008-12-15T09:26:00.000-08:00

The other night at our house:

Nelson [looking thoughtfully at Heather]:

"I had a question for you, and now I can't remember what it was."

Heather [helpfully giving hints to jog his memory]:

"Was it, How much money do you want?"
"How many pieces of chocolate would you
like?"
"Do you want a car, or a pony?"

:-D

Does this strike you as...different?

2008-12-14T16:49:00.000-08:00

So the other night, Nelson and I were reading side-by-side (parallel play, he would call it). Here's the part that made me laugh:

Nelson was reading Twilight. I was reading The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual.

Timberrrr!!!

2008-12-09T14:57:00.000-08:00

We have had an enormous Douglas fir tree in our back yard. And while I love trees, this one was soooo very big. It shaded our yard and made gardening very difficult. It kept rain from getting to our landscape plants. It was a bit scary in a big wind. So last Saturday, we had a HUGE tree-cutting party in our back yard. We hired a friend to cut the tree and the priesthood brethren used it as a service opportunity to cut up firewood for folks in need of wood in our ward. It took most of the day. All the guys just worked and worked, with a small break for hot chocolate, pizza, and pop. Tracy was in the tree for a good five hours straight!

Meanwhile, moms and kids hung out and talked and played at our house. Here is a slide show of some of the highlights of the day:

For even MORE pictures and some video, see our good friend Rune's blog. He got some GREAT shots. (You may be some kind of tree-removal nut if you look at all of these.)

Thank you to everyone for all your help. And we gals had a great time!

Someday ...

2008-12-03T08:11:00.001-08:00

... I'm going to miss all this.

Christmas music

2008-11-29T11:31:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the Christmas season! I've added a music playlist on the side bar for your listening enjoyment.
(I'm so proud of me for figuring out how to add it!) (although there is something wonky with the margins.)

Musings and Happenings

jack: sometimes he bites back

it's amazing i'm still alive

why, yes...

what does it mean to be a "Christian"?

pear pie

fishin' with the Bobs

josh groban concert!

alsea falls

my star scout

mount st. helens

learning to dance

is this a big weed...

Shoshone Falls

Geronimo!

The Nat!

hope is for us

it's official--he DOES have a brain!

heart attack!

the hope of spring

oh, no!

bowling

out with the old...

totally

dancing with the daffodils

i miss...

pep band

oh, I wish I were...

one of the best things...

holiday mail for heroes

pears, pears, pears

a snapshot of aberdeen, idaho

aaron goes to byu-i

"here comes the trout that must be caught with tickling"

"my Shepherd will supply my need"

mr. fixit

the home of lost pens and pencils

rub-a-dub-dub. i see a new tub

disneyland!

"stop, thief!"

Stake Pioneer Trek--June 23-26, 2010

everything's just ducky!

Zuppa Toscana *updated*

Greens Challenged

welcome home, elder farrier!

my pioneer son

The Denier vs. the Consensus

I'm a fan of...

I'm a fan of...

road bullies

the angel-mobile

72-hour food kits

I'm thankful for...

I'm a fan of...

♫ "...and the other gold" ♫

cemetery sleuthing

taking Heather to byu-idaho

going home

Alsea Falls

She is a natural blonde ....

graduation #2!

graduation #1!

dinner "conversation" last night at the Bishop's house

Heather's voice recital

Heather juggles eggs

Brownsville

5th grade track meet

elder aaron spork

a couple of milestones

David's Roadrunner Award

the most inspirational thing I've seen in a long time

look who came to visit

spring cherry blossoms

i'm not sure what to call this

David earns his Webelos and Arrow of Light

a whale of a good time--now with sound!

sixth picture

a star is born

blue and gold

hope

Zuppa Toscana updated