tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86406157477077272562024-03-13T09:33:07.989-07:00A day in the lifeAn attempt at the humorous side of life, with the occasional (hopefully) helpful tidbit.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-46717246047713144602012-01-10T06:10:00.000-08:002012-01-10T06:10:23.436-08:00Faith and Good WorksI have been thinking a lot about how what we believe translates into everyday life. <br />
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I believe that eating my daily recommendation of fruits and vegetables is something I should be doing. I believe that exercising will keep me healthy and strong. And I even believe that if my children do something I disagree with that I should love them into doing the thing that is right.<br />
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So why is it so easy to eat chocolate when I am hungry, get distracted with life at home instead of going for a walk and yell when we're late and that certain child will.not.get.her.shoes.on. ?<br />
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I suppose it is because living what we believe is not always easy. <br />
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I think it is easy to question our beliefs when we give into temptations. Speaking spiritually, when we do something that we know isn't in tune with what our Heavenly Father would have us do we may find ourselves begin to question what we know is true. Or perhaps worse: we may become complacent. <br />
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I have never questioned my faith in God. That has been a great blessing in my life. And yet, if I'm not careful I find myself in some state of complacency far too often. Yeah, yeah, I know I should eat a healthy lunch before I pop chocolate chips into my mouth. I'll just hurry and do it before anyone sees, because I know I'll eat <i>my </i>veggies. If the kids ate chocolate chips before lunch <i>they</i> wouldn't eat theirs, but I'm an adult and I... blah, blah, heard that one before.<br />
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I think the key to most of life's conundrums is diligence and consistency. Reading scriptures every day really isn't such a difficult thing if we have made it a priority in our lives and have made time for it. It's easy to think that we'll get to it after we check our e-mail, but unless we do those little things that matter most first we are treating vital things lightly. <br />
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After He is resurrected, Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him. (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/21.17?lang=eng#16" target="_blank">John 21</a>) This is Peter the rock we are speaking about! An apostle who had gone through all manner of trials and tribulations in the name of the Lord. Of course Peter loved his Savior. What Jesus was asking Peter to do was to <i>act </i>on his love. To "feed my sheep." It wasn't enough just to feel something, to know something. Peter had denied Jesus thrice prior to his Crucifixion, denied although he <i>did </i>know and love his Savior. Believing isn't enough to change. Believing won't bring us salvation. We have to live what we believe. That is what Peter did from that moment on. He lived his religion and translated those beliefs into acts. That is how he became the rock.<br />
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<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/42.29?lang=eng#28" target="_blank">Doctrine and Covenants 42:29</a> says, "If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments." <br />
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So how do I use this knowledge to keep those resolutions I made at the beginning of the year? <br />
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First I have to change. I have to believe that I can accomplish those things. I suppose before that I have to actually <i>want</i> to change. Not just wish it. I have to want to be healthier more than I want chocolate. Then, I make a specific plan as to how I am going to accomplish my goal. (I.e. stop buying chocolate, and when it shows up, have only one serving after I've had a healthy meal). I must be diligent and consistent from day to day. <br />
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Thankfully there's repentance, but if I really want these things out of life- to become more like Jesus Christ- then I have to translate these goals into daily living. <br />
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So here's a kick start from <a href="http://lds.org/liahona/2012/01/living-the-abundant-life?lang=eng" target="_blank">President Thomas S. Monson</a>.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-22389659699432744782011-11-21T19:27:00.000-08:002011-11-21T19:27:06.782-08:00A thought of thankfulnessI haven't written much since our big move.<br />
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I suppose I'm written out. I started a family newsletter that I try and send 3 to 4 times a month, and it just saps any creative energy I've got. <br />
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So I thought a post on gratitude would be in order. How better to do that than sharing some scriptures? This is from Psalms 107:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px;">21 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;">22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;">23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;" /><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;"><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">24 These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits’ end.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">28 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">31 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!</span><br />
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It's so easy to take things for granted. How grateful I am for a reminder to thank the Lord for His marvelous </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;">works in my life.</span>Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-56590416577290934312011-09-05T20:41:00.000-07:002011-09-05T20:41:47.337-07:00listening to train hornsI guess I'm in a contemplative mood tonight.<br />
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Sometimes drastic life changes are beyond our control, and after the whirlwind lifts we wonder "what in the world just happened?" <br />
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A week or two ago I was taking out the garbage at night. I looked around me and thought, "Now how did I get here again?" Although my surroundings felt so very foreign at the time I felt peaceful and knew that everything was how it should be. <br />
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After all, we're here and we're going to make the best of it.<br />
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The most difficult, instant home-sick inducing thing is thinking of how so very far away I am from (seemingly) everything that helped to define my sense of 'me'. My ancestors walked over two thousand miles in all to get to Zion, and most of the family has been there ever since right down to me. And then I up and move off to the foreign reaches of the continent. <br />
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I was missing my family very much the other night, so I got onto google maps and took a tour of my childhood neighborhood. I felt strangely better dragging the mouse down that lane. <br />
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And those stars above me are the same that shine over my mountain valley hometown and all those people that I love.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-72955033930686402011-08-07T17:27:00.000-07:002011-08-07T17:27:48.661-07:00Manly ratcheting roof strapsWe pulled into our new life last Friday amid tremendous claps of thunder and a leaky car roof. After fighting for survival on the freeway through the torrents and crazy semi-drivers, and plugging the water spouts in the car with diapers, we zipped right to our eldest daughter's new school to register her for class... which we thought started Monday. We soon came to find out it started last Wednesday. <br />
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It seems like a sort of dream waking up in some strange place, doesn't it. <br />
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Today the clouds finally parted and I was able to get a look around. I had prayed for mountains, and we have been blessed with more rolling hills than mountains. (I think there should be a federally mandated definition of 'mountains' so as not to confuse those from true mountain ranges).<br />
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It's hard not to calculate 'home' right back into the equation, but I'm trying to envision life here for the long term. It is nice to know we're not being held against our will, though! <br />
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In a few ways, it reminds me of Japan here. Rain. Humidity. Green. It is exciting to be in a new place. And, I've already been able to use my Japanese! (In Wal*Mart during a mad-crazy back-to-school buying frenzy).<br />
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The people here are very friendly and extremely courteous. We feel really blessed to be members of the LDS church. Anywhere in the world we may roam, we find loving and caring friends at church.<br />
Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-37097445244281670752011-07-02T21:47:00.000-07:002011-07-02T21:47:30.464-07:00So, um, what now?!Big, LIFE ALTERING changes to come. Freaking out. Almost. Anyone have any advice for moving across the country site unseen?!Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-18723737746215533062011-06-26T22:33:00.000-07:002011-06-26T22:34:35.162-07:00A short testimonySo we are in a transitory phase in our lives. We've had some sudden potential opportunities come up. It almost feels like I am just watching someone else's life at the moment. I'm not sure why it is, at times, so difficult for me to internalize sudden changes, but I'm trying to remind myself that pretty soon life may become drastically different. Or not. And that may be just as tricky!<br />
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I suppose I'm in a contemplative mood. This is dangerous while blogging because I am given to stream of conscious-esque writing, which I end up deleting anyway. Recently there has been a string of tragic events in the lives of many of those around me that I love. It's almost shocking how many different people I know that have had something really devastating happen just this last week. I've found myself wishing that I could wave a magic wand and somehow make everything all right again. I've also found myself on my knees in prayer.<br />
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It is at times like these that I am so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I believe that we are all children of our Father in Heaven, and that He knows and loves us each individually. I have felt His Spirit bear witness to me that this is true. I know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ that we can be healed from whatever tries our soul, from whatever torment or pain we experience in this life. I believe that if we turn to our Father in Heaven, come what may, that <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/122.7?lang=eng#6">all these things shall give us experience, and shall be for our good</a>. <br />
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<h3><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/16.9?lang=eng#8"><span style="color: #486fae;">Mosiah 16:9</span></a></h3>9 <span class="highlight">He</span> is the <span class="highlight">light</span> and the <span class="highlight">life</span> of the <span class="highlight">world</span>; yea, a <span class="highlight">light</span> that is endless, <page-break page="179">that can never be darkened; yea, and also a <span class="highlight">life</span> which is endless, that there can be no more death.</page-break><br />
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<page-break page="179"></page-break><br />
<h3><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/3.17?lang=eng#16"><span style="color: #486fae;">Mosiah 3:17</span></a></h3>17 And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be <span class="highlight">no</span> <span class="highlight">other</span> name given nor any <span class="highlight">other</span> <span class="highlight">way</span> nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.<br />
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<h3><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/14.27?lang=eng#26"><span style="color: #486fae;">John 14:27</span></a></h3>27 <span class="highlight">Peace</span> I leave with you, my <span class="highlight">peace</span> I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-47503227652985196722011-06-01T21:51:00.000-07:002011-06-23T21:03:31.704-07:00Slithery EncounterToday we went walking with our friends, the Yahnies*. Initially we went so we could find a letterbox at Parley's Nature Park, but the gate was locked due to the torrential river which was threatening life and limb. At times it is best to take precautions. Besides, I am partial to our lives and limbs. <br />
So instead we decided to stroll along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and hike to the bridges that span the highways. We started down the lovely, paved path when Ls made a beeline right for a large stick. A stick that kind of looked like a... SNAKE! <br />
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After I shrieked a quick warning to absolutely not go near the stick snake, we all froze to make sure it wasn't really a snake after all. And then the stick slithered its tongue. EEEE! This thing was at least 3 1/2 feet long. And it was golden with black checkery marks. And it was slithery. And it was a snake.<br />
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After some research upon returning home, I discovered that there are 31 different species of snakes living here in our state. 7 of which are venomous. Of course I didn't know that at the time, and venomous or not I prefer not to share my immediate vicinity with them. Or any vicinity, actually. Besides, a one in 4ish chance it could be venomous is WAY too high for me. <br />
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Moving on with the story, we were, well, waiting for the snake to move on. Ls and the Yahnies' little gal tried to go inspect our slithery friend, but we moms said "No way." We gave the thing PLENTY of room. It didn't look like a pit viper to me, but I took a picture anyway just in case. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JHg7d78KHOs/TecV9k5pfpI/AAAAAAAAAbA/FBIUgL3e-iU/s1600/IMG_3149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JHg7d78KHOs/TecV9k5pfpI/AAAAAAAAAbA/FBIUgL3e-iU/s320/IMG_3149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After our glorious bridges crossing experience, we came home quite exhausted but ready to find out what kind of snake it was. And thanks to the DNR we found out it was a <a href="http://dwrcdc.nr.utah.gov/rsgis2/search/Display.asp?FlNm=pitucate">gophersnake</a>. Thank heaven it wasn't that <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704308904576226941341309466.html">Egyptian Cobra escapee</a> from the Bronx Zoo out on the town again.<br />
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And, just in case you're curious, here's a quick and <a href="http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/NR_WD_008.pdf">handy guide</a> for what to do if you're bitten by a snake and how to tell venomous snakes from non-venomous ones. Not that you'll ever catch me close enough to one to find out.<br />
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*In order to protect the innocent, I purposely mis-spelled this name.<br />
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<blockquote><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/snake.html">"I'm not about to go out and buy a snake for a pet. I mean, I may have faced a few fears but I'm not insane." -Kristin Davis</a></blockquote>Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-16773918872878316502011-04-16T20:38:00.000-07:002011-04-16T20:38:04.894-07:00Fooshy Elevator MusicBack in college our phone had "technical difficulties". Some may think "issues" would be a more fitting term.<br />
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This was in the days before widespread cell phone use. Back then cell phones plugged into car cigarette lighters and had their own battery cases attached. Those were corded, too. A former boss of mine told me she used to work with a crisis hotline and had to carry around a cell phone the size of a large brick and hold it with 2 hands back in the day. But I digress...<br />
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This was a land line. It plugged into the wall and had a long, knotted, twisty cord that tethered you in the kitchen. And it was beige. For reasons unbeknownst to me, there was some kind of radio interference and somehow it picked up the local soft rock station. So whenever we used the phone we would suddenly hear fooshy elevator music. Alas, the person on the other end of the line couldn't hear it. (I always thought it was some kind of conspiracy to up the station's listener count).<br />
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One day one of my best friends, Jessica, called me with wonderful news. She was getting married! She started giving details and was so exciting to tell me everything that I couldn't break in to tell her how hard I was trying not to laugh. Not that getting engaged is funny. No, I was very happy to hear that, of course, but there was this sappy love music playing over the phone the entire time. I have never had to bite my knuckles so hard to keep from breaking up. If only she could have heard that lovey music and known how elegantly it accentuated her news.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-28424053136864853552011-04-10T14:09:00.000-07:002011-04-10T14:09:10.239-07:00A recipe for health. Sort of. And a few secrets...Quite often when the sickies come to stay at our house, I make a big pot of soup. We've been sick so often this season that if I had done that, we'd have eaten nothing but! This time around it's strep throat, AGAIN, mixed most probably with the common cold. Somehow I have escaped the strep and hope to stay that way.<br />
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Anyway.<br />
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Undeniably the worst part of soup for me is handling raw meat. (A side effect that never went away with my first pregnancy). Thankfully, today an epiphany came to me. And so, I give you this home made recipe:<br />
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Momma K's Quick Soup<br />
1 large onion<br />
4 carrots<br />
3 stalks celery<br />
1/2+ c. rice (I used par boiled today, but any kind will do)<br />
8 - 10 cups of your favorite broth (I used chicken)<br />
2 bay leaves<br />
1/2 tsp. thyme (I mashed mine in a mortar and pestle)<br />
1 tsp. minced garlic<br />
Garlic powder, to taste<br />
Thick sliced luncheon meat. I used Costco's roasted turkey lunch meat. Thick and yummy.<br />
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I think that this is all I used. I rarely use a recipe, I just throw things in as I go. <br />
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First, slice up the onion into very small square-lets. I suppose this would be called mincing them. <br />
Saute in oil.<br />
Throw in the rice.<br />
Cut carrots, throw in, cut celery (including leaves), throw in. <br />
Add broth, bay leaves, thyme, garlic, and sprinkle the top with garlic powder, to taste. <br />
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When the rice is nearly done (check cooking times on the package. Different types cook for different amounts of time) chop up as much lunch meat as you want and throw it in.<br />
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Voila!<br />
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I added lime juice to ours, and I served with lime wedges and tortilla chips.<br />
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Another soup secret, if it's too hot, just sprinkle with a frozen vegetable such as peas or corn. This works well with chili, too.<br />
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And one more secret. We wash out glass containers (such as jelly, etc) with screw on lids and use them to put leftovers, such as soup, in. They are also handy when we make soup for others. No worrying about having to return anything!<br />
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And, for desert we had fruit salad. I just chopped up strawberries, bananas and apples, squeezed lime juice over it, and sprinkled with sugar. Stir and serve. (You can add any fruit you want, of course).<br />
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My wonderful <a href="http://lds.org/pa/display/0,17884,4691-1,00.html">vising teachers</a> dropped off a sickness survival bag with all kinds of wonderful things, including Emergen-C. So, hopefully we'll be all recovered in no time! Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-44934192633913266702011-04-01T22:21:00.000-07:002011-04-01T22:21:25.980-07:00Musings on One of the Best Days of the Year - April Fools!So, today is one of the best holidays <em>ever</em>. I have always loved April Fools' Day. <br />
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I can't describe the joy we had each year that Mom fell for the elastic-band-on-the-sprayer trick. (She would just stand there screaming and doing a little quick step and getting sprayed on until someone finally quit laughing long enough to turn off the faucet). She even admitted to me this morning how disappointed she was that she hadn't been sprayed yet today. Maybe one of my siblings that live closer will fulfill her secret wish.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Anyway.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Thank heavens for me <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/">Family Fun</a> always has fun ideas to keep my unsuspecting loved ones on their toes. Like, for instance, this little <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/april-fools-day/april-fools-day-printable-pranks-kids/plant-some-laughs-1003660/">gem</a>:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xVS_7odSLg/TZatW2rwxGI/AAAAAAAAAa4/HBW0TBetujE/s1600/IMG_2512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xVS_7odSLg/TZatW2rwxGI/AAAAAAAAAa4/HBW0TBetujE/s320/IMG_2512.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Easy to Grow - Fun to Eat"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Last year I made their <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/fauxberry-pie-688637/">faux-berry pie</a> (shepherd's pie died with beat juice made to look like cream pie). I also had <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/april-fools-day/april-fools-day-recipes/gelled-juice-699472/">drinks</a> that looked deceptively refreshing that were actually cups of jello with straws. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Alas. I didn't photo-document it. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This year I made up a fake parking ticket and stuck it on Mr. A.H.'s car. (I also got the idea from Family Fun,<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/april-fools-prank-pretend-parking-ticket-667617/"> here</a>, but made up my own to look similar to our local tickets. Not that I would know what <em>they</em> look like). He totally didn't even notice. But my sister did. She and her husband thought they had been cited. Until they noticed me filming them from the porch and snickering. </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">"YOU!" </div><br />
Those were sis's exact words. :-) <br />
<br />
And now. Some friendly guidelines for enjoying this most merry of occassions revenge free. (Hopefully!)<br />
<br />
1. Don't do anything mean. Remember that golden rule!<br />
<br />
2. Don't lie. In the words of Gram (roughly):<br />
"If you've replaced the salt in the shaker with sugar, don't say, 'Would you like some salt?' Say, 'Would you like some of this?'" Jewels of wisdom.<br />
<br />
3. Pre-planning pays. Don't be the one stuck running to the Dollar Store at midnight for fishing line and confetti. Save those last minute trips for Christmas Eve.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>4. Don't break the law! Or else, you know. You're a law breaker. And we don't want <em>that</em> to spoil the fun.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
5. If all else fails, you can always hide patiently behind the door for an unsuspecting victim. <br />
<br />
So now if you'll excuse me, I'm totally going to go sign up for <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/april-fools-day/april-fools-day-printable-pranks-kids/april-fools-prank-chore-camp-brochure-702822/">Chore Camp</a>.<br />
<img height="72" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xVS_7odSLg/TZatW2rwxGI/AAAAAAAAAa4/HBW0TBetujE/s320/IMG_2512.JPG" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 221px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 318px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" /> <div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><img height="72" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_LMoBVbW-Kg/TZatANiz8hI/AAAAAAAAAa0/ULjnbLRuGqY/s320/IMG_2504.JPG" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 189px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1191px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" /> <div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_LMoBVbW-Kg/TZatANiz8hI/AAAAAAAAAa0/ULjnbLRuGqY/s1600/IMG_2504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_LMoBVbW-Kg/TZatANiz8hI/AAAAAAAAAa0/ULjnbLRuGqY/s320/IMG_2504.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doughnut Seeds look and taste strikingly similar to Honey Nut Cheerios.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-87368536313230438512011-03-18T22:05:00.000-07:002011-03-18T22:05:00.091-07:00My dear JapanI've been in shock for the last week or so. I just cannot believe what has happened to Japan. I am having a hard time imagining what the future may bring to this dear country, and an even harder time thinking of those wonderful people going through such trauma and devastation.<br />
<br />
I am a better person because of the blessing I had of serving my <a href="http://mormon.org/faith/">mission</a> in Japan. Those beautiful people taught me so much about civility, integrity, hard work, community and so many other things. I feel like Japan is my second home and its people, my people. My heart aches for them.<br />
<br />
I have worried about loved ones over there. I have worried about the children of Japan. The elderly, all those in harm's way or who are suffering. I think of the mothers who have lost their sons and daughters. I think of the fathers trying so desperately to hold things together. Many hundreds of thousands are now homeless, with many hundreds of thousands more who have become nuclear refugees. I know there are many people there, even still more than a week after the earthquake, who do not have enough food and water. There are many people out in the bitter cold, without adequate shelter or the necessities of life. People that I love don't have immediate water supplies. I don't know if they are okay right now, and all I can do is send my pleas Heavenward for them.<br />
<br />
I'm really at a loss for words. <br />
<br />
So, my dear Japan, I am praying for you. Hang in there.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-89692600338789793832011-03-06T21:30:00.000-08:002011-03-08T20:26:41.520-08:00SwordlingsThis morning Mom knocked on our door with a forsythia bush in her arms. And a stylish haircut to match! She was such a sight with those long sticks darting every which way. She always wears sunglasses, even when speaking at the church at Gram's (her mother's) funeral. It's quintessential mom. Red hair and sunglasses.<br />
<br />
Anyway, she handed the swordlings to me, and I pulled them into the house and tried to fit them into our pint sized kitchen. Really, the bush takes up the whole table, but Mom says you have to be dramatic in small rooms.<br />
<br />
She had been down to the other apartments she owns and trimmed her forsythia and very kindly brought me the clippings. I put them into a pitcher with some rocks, trimmed them down, and hopefully we'll get some blooms soon. The kids think it's great. I just hope no one pokes their eyes out.<br />
<br />
Some time after Mom's thoughtful gift I called her to say maybe I'd try to transplant them out into the yard in a few weeks. <br />
<br />
Me: "I'll watch the blooms, then inspect the bottoms for roots. After that I'll plant them outside and they'll die of shock."<br />
<br />
Mom: "That's a great idea! It'll be like a symbol of hope lost! A twig memorial!" <br />
<br />
Until then, then!Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-48294479254889266512011-02-26T20:43:00.000-08:002011-02-26T20:52:54.294-08:00Reflections on another's life well spentToday I bumped into a sweet lady and her daughter from Gram's ward. We had a nice little chat, it had been a long time since I had seen either of them. Since Gram has passed away, I have really been out of the loop! She held so many people together.<br /><br />Afterwards, while driving home I thought about how incredibly grateful I am for my Grandmother. I am so grateful for all the years I had her here with me. I am so grateful for the time I was able to spend with her, and the countless ways in which she blessed my life. <br /><br />I remember several occassions of tearfully pleading with the Lord to spare her. I could not imagine my life without her here on this earth. She has been one of my greatest comforts, and certainly one of my greatest heroes and examples. I want to be just like her in so many ways.<br /><br />When she passed away, something remarkable happened. I felt joyfully at peace. I felt grateful. And I felt like I had gained her for eternity, I had not lost her. I know where she is. She made it. She is a Saint, and I know she is about doing good in the next life, just as she did in this one. How very blessed I am to have her, and to keep her always.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-91009443701283048722011-02-12T15:46:00.000-08:002011-02-12T16:47:39.547-08:00Love is in the air. And so is gunsmoke.Last month my sweet cousin Em offered to watch the gals so Mr. AH and I could go out on a date. I don't think that Meemers has ever really been baby-sat, and the last time hubby and I went out it was grocery shopping with the small fries. (Which is perfectly fine. Family dates! Hurray!)<br /><br />And now a word about guns.<br /><br />The last time I shot a pistol I was 5. I couldn't even pull the trigger, and when my Dad did for me, the gun jumped back and hit me in the face. So naturally I haven't touched one since. (Not that I have an aversion, just mere coincidence). Until last night. Mr. AH and I went target shooting at an indoor range for our Valentine's date! Romance was just zipping through the air, as I'm sure you can imagine. Such ambiance! <br /><br />It really was fun.<br /><br />And loud.<br /><br />And I think it may have set my natural heart rhythm slightly askew, but totally exciting regardless. <br /><br />We shot a Glock (40 whatevers), and a .375 or something. They both had kick! I got shelled about a dozen times (hit by a flying bullet cartridge). The Glock spits a red hot one out every time you shoot. For a girl who is proud of her pellet gun (my only gun, other than my trusty daisy b-b), I really had a great time. And, for full disclosure, going to the range was totally my very own idea. (A side note to the gals: You should have heard the excitement in Mr. AH's voice when I suggested we do this for our date. Try it sometime). <br /><br />Alas, we forgot our camera. No evidence of our exploits. <br /><br />Anyway, so this got me thinking about other things that I would really like to try out. Maybe someday I'll take up archery! Sounds like fun to me...Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-61883428325993422022011-01-29T20:12:00.000-08:002011-01-29T20:45:02.357-08:00“If you read a lot of books you are considered well read. But if you watch a lot of TV, you're not considered well viewed.” -Lily TomlinI finished reading Condoleezza Rice's book, <u>Extraordinary, Ordinary People</u> last night. It was enjoyable, educational and insightful.<br /><br />I was particularly fascinated by her insider's recounting of the fall of the Berlin wall, of segregated Birmingham through the eyes of a well-loved child, and making tough financial cuts while provost at Stanford.<br /><br />A few weeks ago I read Edith Wharton's <u>The Age of Innocence</u>. Ms. Wharton has been described as one of America's greatest writers. She was the first woman to win a Pulitzer for fiction. She is an extremely talented in her ability to tell it like it is. Her observations of the natural man are the best I've read. This book deals primarily with the disastrous consequences of completely bowing oneself to social expectation. I agree that we ought to make our own well informed decisions, but where the author and I differ greatly is that I believe we ought to make our decisions and then consult our Father in Heaven whether or not they are what he would have us do. If her main character had done this, his life would have been so much better! (And she probably wouldn't have won the Pulitzer). She is stating a message, a cautionary tale if you will. Well written, it really made me think. It certainly isn't my favorite book, but I do appreciate the fact that it caused me to reflect on life and things that I value.<br /><br />I am currently reading <u>Wild Nights </u>(Nature Returns to the City) by Anne Matthews. I've just started it, but I LOVE IT. This non-fictional book is about wildlife returning to New York City. She writes about deer in Manhattan, a corn field growing in a median strip in upper Broadway, and my favorite so far "By 1999 coyotes and wild turkeys had began to roam Central Park. ("How did they get there?" demanded <em>The Wall Street Journal.</em> "Crosstown bus?"<br /><br />Ms. Matthews divides her book into 3 sections, summarized by me as<br />1: nature's return to the modern city<br />2: the historic struggle of nature vs. man in NYC<br />3: possible outcomes of nature returning to the city<br /><br />So far her writing is gripping, humorous and educational. She really knows how to tell a story, and I'm really enjoying it.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-74362194078779582532011-01-24T20:12:00.000-08:002011-01-24T20:21:32.210-08:00"Extraordinary, Ordinary People"I have been reading a lot lately. <br /><br />I guess I've always been an avid reader, sometimes moreso than not. Anyway, I am currently reading Condoleezza Rice's memoir "Extraordinary, Ordinary People". It is fascinating, and I am really enjoying it. I put it on hold at the library as soon as I heard it was coming out, and just got it a few days ago. She is extraordinarly adroit at painting a picture of the segregated South without at all singing the victim. In fact, I'll quote her:<br /><br />"All these elements - extended family, community, schools, and churches - conspired together to convince me and my peers that racism was "their" problem, not ours. Whatever feelings of insecurity or inadequacy black adults felt in the appalling and depressing circumstances of Jim Crow Birmingham, they did not transfer it to us. For the children of our little enclave, Titusville, the message was crystal clear: We love you and will give you everything we can to help you succeed. But there are no excuses and there is no place for victims."<br /><br />I love this book so far, and recommend it highly. She is a fascinating person.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-84355437767550255362011-01-21T09:21:00.000-08:002011-01-21T09:39:26.326-08:00Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong!I grew up in the most beautiful place on earth. It used to be much more rural than it is now, but even so it is such a quaint, soul soothing area. Coming up and over the mountain highway and seeing that first view of my home town is a little glimpse of heaven. <br /><br />As we were coming into town, I commented to Mr. A.H. how things had so drastically changed since I lived there. New buildings, new developments. It really feels a bit like Park City spilled over the mountains. I told him that when I was younger, we pretty much knew everyone. And, even if we didn't, it sure felt like we did because wherever we went people would wave. (There is something refreshing about rough old cowpokes throwing up their hand in a friendly greeting as they pass by in their 2 ton pickup). <br /><br />Anyway. We stopped by a few stores before heading to Mom's. I had forgotten how hospitable and pleasant Heber is. We heard small town talk and uplifting greetings. Teenagers held the doors open for us. People buying their things would pause for a quick chat. Isn't is wonderful when people greet you, really wondering how you are doing? When they pause to hear the answer? Part of my soul still hangs out in Heber and I find it each time I go back. Sigh.<br /><br />Thank Heavens Mom and the gang still live there. An anchor!Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-58617148580634470822010-12-30T09:05:00.000-08:002010-12-30T13:18:41.883-08:00Time flies on wings of lightningI was browsing the top 100 albums at Amazon yesterday and came across The Band Perry. They've got a song with a gorgeous melody, however, I have wondered about the message it's trying to convey. What does "If I Die Young" really mean?<br /><p>The tune itself is rich and flows easily. The vocals are outstanding, and I love the arrangement. It's just the lyrics. So, I turned to a source of many of today's answers: google. It turns out, a lot of other people wondered the same thing I did. Is this song about suicide?</p><p>I tried to find out what the band themselves had to say about it. (They wrote it). I couldn't find anything on their website or otherwise. </p><p>We never know when this life might end. Some have goodly, old lives watching their grandbabies, and even great grandbabies, grow up. Others are taken in infancy. One message this song may be sending is that we should enjoy each day, and love those around us, because we never know when that last day will be.</p><p>At some point or other I think it's only natural to ponder life, its duration. Mortality is such a <span style="color:#000000;">fleeting thing, </span><span style="color:#000000;">"...time passed away with us, and also our lives passed away like as it were unto us a dream" <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/jacob/7.26?lang=eng#25">Jacob 7:26</a>. I think it's true that <a href="http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=226&searchsubseqstart=" searchseqend="'226&searchsubseqend=">"Time flies on wings of lightning"</a>.</span></p><p>It is an especially tender subject when we lose someone we love. </p><p>Sometimes we are faced with situations or events that seemingly lend themselves to impossible solutions. We can't find a way out, and may be tempted into thinking that the only true way to free ourselves is to leave this mortal life behind. This life is a <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/34.32?lang=eng#31">time for us to prepare </a>to meet God, and flippantly severing our gift of mortality in a moment of sorrow leaves only devastation for those left behind and uncertainty for the future. I think that one of the reasons the Lord arranged the necessity of sleep is because when we awake the next day it gives us perspective on the events of the days before. Sometimes we need to take a step back and separate ourselves from the situation in order to gain clarity. Suicide may be thought about and planned for years, but in its finality its consequences are eternal. Satan would have us believe there is no other way out. When we feel like we have no other options we can be sure that it is one of his evil snares. I know that through obedience to God's commandments we can find <a href="http://www.mormon.org/plan-of-happiness/">peace in this life</a>, joy and rejoicing. <a href="http://www.mormon.org/jesus-christ/">Jesus Christ </a>came down to this earth to atone for our sins, and only He can cleanse us from feelings of dispair.</p><p>This song really got me thinking. The topic of suicide is such a tender one. Two of our young, sweet neighbors ended their lives this way. I have known others that also chose this path, and I have seen the absolute devastation it brought their families. Sometimes these choices affect generations to come, with loved ones following the example set years before.</p>Many of us have wondered if those around us care. We may be hurt by the actions of others or by events beyond our control. "Wouldn't they be sorry if I were to die?" Perhaps they would reconsider their actions and how they had treated us if something were to befall us. But why should we feel like we have to control the consequences of other's actions against us? Thank heavens we can leave these things in the hands of God. He has numbered our days. He knows us perfectly and loves us perfectly regardless of who we are. We can change only ourselves, and sometimes we have to start by changing our perspectives. <br /><br />Sometimes when something appeals to us we try to imagine that it's not what it really is. How expertly the devil wraps his vicious traps in the prettiest paper and adorns them with cloaks of splendor. So, regardless of what people may say the song means, I know I don't want my daughters listening to it and wondering.<br /><br />This beautiful tune, misinterpreted or not, may be the last song some of their fans ever hear.<br /><br />Let us rejoice in this beautiful life and be grateful for each moment we have. Let's get out there and bless others and love those around us!Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-6282138003554891282010-12-16T18:31:00.000-08:002010-12-17T11:05:54.064-08:00And then...I was just reflecting over the year. There were a lot of blog-able things that should be mentioned:<br /><br />First of all, Mr. A.H. was sprayed with a fire hose on the 4th of July. You should have seen his face! (He was in a tug-o-war game celebrating the independence of our country). Coincidentally, Nina and Ls were also sprayed, but had much less reactionary reactions.<br /><br />Actually, that event was so memorable I can't recall what else should be mentioned.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-7834028972021075642010-10-25T21:09:00.000-07:002010-10-25T21:53:13.073-07:00Jalapenos and other household hazardsI heard a few weeks ago on NPR that in Mexico, some people put cooking oil on their hands when handling chili peppers in order to protect themselves from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsaicin"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">capsaicin</span></a>. I have had unfortunate run-ins with this nefarious chili component in years past. I love making chili, so this easy remedy sounded like the answer to all of my pepper problems. <div><div><div><br /></div><div>In fact, I tried it just after hearing about it. And sure enough, voila! it worked like a charm. I even put it through a truly rigorous trial and handled the peppers as I was cutting them! No burning! Success! That is, at least, until I washed my hands and handled the unwashed-jalapeno-cutting knife. :-( </div></div><div></div><div><div><br /></div><div>So anyway, today I decided to make my signature chili. I always make a gigantic batch (8 cans of beans! 3 cans of tomatoes!) and therefore am not shy about adding plenty of jalapenos. </div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Today I searched the fridge and found only 1. :-( Oh well, it was nice and juicy and I just love that little zing! I neglected to use the oily hand method, and opted instead for a plastic bag. Unfortunately, this gave me less control of the knife, and as mentioned, the pepper was juicy and by the way, did you know that juicy peppers can squirt when cut?<br /></div><div></div><div> </div><div>"<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">AUGH</span>! Mr. A.H.! I just got squirted in the eyes with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">capsaicin</span>!!!"<br /></div><div></div><div>I ran to the sink and quickly doused myself with water. I could tell that my supportive and very sensitive husband was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">suppressing</span> a laugh. I then ran to the bathroom sink, because of course<em> that </em>water is much better for this type of emergency. Mr. A.H. quickly followed. I looked up after my curative efforts and *FLASH* Mr. A.H. to the rescue! </div><div><br /><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532209963602502658" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LVPNft-WNJo/TMZbpqdnZAI/AAAAAAAAAaM/xJ_yZW-H8i4/s400/IMG_1795.JPG" /><br /><div>Instant karma, however, is still alive and well:</div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532209980655840082" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LVPNft-WNJo/TMZbqp_cq1I/AAAAAAAAAak/qoh-mz0c2Xs/s400/IMG_1799.JPG" /></div></div></div>Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-40888671840172077662010-10-17T20:52:00.000-07:002010-10-17T21:31:22.951-07:00Gram<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LVPNft-WNJo/TLvNCQC0mNI/AAAAAAAAAaE/vmZ0Huhi7r8/s1600/Top-24.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529238406077651154" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LVPNft-WNJo/TLvNCQC0mNI/AAAAAAAAAaE/vmZ0Huhi7r8/s400/Top-24.jpg" /></a><br /><div><div>My sweet Gram passed away on October 13.<br /></div><div>I'm sure that nothing I could think to write here would come close to expressing how terribly I miss her, or what an amazing woman she is. I find traces of her in most every aspect of my life. She really influenced me tremendously, and I am so grateful for her stalwart example.<br /></div><div>Gram passed away one week after her 98th birthday. She was never one that I would refer to as 'old'. That just was not a word that came close to describing her. She was so full of vim, so active and hard working her entire life. She was always actively engaged in some good cause or other. She is so loved by all who know her.<br /></div><div>My Gram is such a quick witted, funny person. She has the best memory of anyone I've ever known. She could still recite The Fox and the Crow, in French, that she learned more than 80 years ago in school. Her gems of wisdom continually come to mind as I go throughout the day. It has always been that way, I have always greatly admired her.<br /></div><div>She always loved learning. A few nights before she passed away, she had seen a television program about molecular biology and mold and had called up my Mom to warn her that if she ever found mold on a loaf of bread, to throw it out because the whole thing would be contaminated!<br /></div><div>I loved walking into her home. She was always so happy to see us, and always made us feel like we made her day just by being there. She would tell us stories about her life, the people she loved and knew, and she could remember the names of all involved! She remembered names of neighborhood figures she knew as a child, the grocer, her teachers, her friends and acquaintances. I am amazed by her brilliant mind!<br /></div><div>I have so many stories I love and charish about her. I couldn't have asked her a better grandmother. In deed, she certainly was, and is, the best grandmother ever. I miss you, Gram. </div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 120px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 189px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529238402685088786" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LVPNft-WNJo/TLvNCDZ-NBI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/SOPNlayPKg8/s400/Gram.jpg" /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-51027887689014588702010-09-22T07:48:00.001-07:002010-09-22T08:22:48.899-07:00So, I am like, totally related to AdamOur family has finally rejoined the microwave get-in-an-instant age of Internet. Mr. A.H. has signed us up for high speed (1.5!). We used to have only dial up, which carries its own mysterious physique. To quote a teenager whom I talked to a few years ago about our, ahem, slower connection of the past, "Dial up? They, like, still <em>make</em> that?"<br />Before I would turn on the computer and get it started, go get a snack, come back and tap my foot at the computer that was <em>still</em> loading, eat my snack, go get the newspaper and read it, log onto blogger, stare at the ceiling, go get a drink, do the laundry, chase children... you can see why I haven't written in a month. Who has that kind of time? NOT ME. We've had this Internet for 5 days and I've been on twice, and it is SO much faster. I can actually post pictures once again on the blog. (Coming soon).<br />Last night I thought, "Ooh, now's my chance to catch up on some genealogy!" So I signed up for the new family search and was amazed! How cool it is! And, I am happy to report that someone has traced my dad's mother's side of the family all the way back to Adam! True. I spent way too much time tracing it back by clicking arrows to verify family rumor that it has been done. It has. I discovered that I am related to<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opchanacanough"> Opchanacanough</a>, the Indian chief that captured the Pilgrim John Smith (Jamestown) and was subsequently captured and murdered. I am also related to<br />Jehosephat, King Solomon, Bathsheba, David, Anna (the cousin of the Virgin Mary), plenty of Kings, princesses, sirs and on and on. Apparently, when you are related to an infamous Mormon historical figure (as I am related to John D. Lee of the Mountain Meadow Massacre fame- this has been verified by myself and other family historians), it is "easy" to find your roots.<br />I am, needless to say, skeptical of this all-the-way-to-Adam thing and have already found suspicious areas that need to be verified. (By the way, go ahead and look up Adam and Eve, at least through the John D. Lee line, and be amazed).<br />There are so many things I'd like to do, but Time! That precious commodity that flies on wings of lightning, laughing.<br />So it may be a while until I find out if it is true or not if I am actually related to Indian chiefs, kings, prophets and Adam. Wait. I think Adam has already claimed me. Good. One down...Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-749939864096114832010-08-13T12:29:00.000-07:002010-09-22T08:23:56.848-07:00MeemersMr. A.H. and I are having a little quiet time at the children's hospital.<br /><br />We're in the waiting room while little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Meemers</span> is in surgery. This is her 5<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> surgery. She is 5 months old.<br /><br />The last 4 surgeries have gone well. We're grateful she has such a wonderful surgeon.<br /><br />Our sweet little baby girl.<br /><br />It's easy now to forget that when she was born she was hooked up to all kinds of things to make sure she was still breathing well and getting enough oxygen. We had to get up every 3 hours and suck her nose out with a machine, and then change the lead on her pulse <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">oximiter</span>. We didn't get a lot of sleep.<br /><br />I still listen for her breathing at night. And I am grateful for every moment we have with her. She is so precious. And so funny! She started playing with the anaesthesiologist's face when he picked her up to take her back.<br /><br />Sweet little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Meemers</span>.Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-48734885088490249772010-06-30T21:30:00.000-07:002010-06-30T21:51:32.982-07:00Renraku* We don't have soda in our house very often. Like never. I thought that for this reason Ls would be tickled pink to have some. Instead, I caught her pouring orange pop into our recycle bin. I ruined her fun with a reprimand.<br /><br />* NiNa just finished swimming lessons. She is part fish, you know.<br /><br />* Meemers rolled over today for the first time! Ya~a~a~y! And, even better, I caught it on video. I have now caught all three of my daughter's first rolling over experiences. I think I must have a kind of soon-to-roll-over-ESP. <br /><br />* And, speaking of ESP, both Gram and Mr. AH say I must have some kind of spider sense, as Mr. AH calls it, because I can always sense when there is a spider within close proximity to me (meaning anywhere within 40 yards). Just yesterday I was drying off from a shower when I felt someone watching me. Sure enough, the window was cracked just an inch and there was a big, hairy, hideous spider peeping at my hygienic activities. I did the most prudent thing I could think of, given that I was taken off guard and rather arachnophobic, and slammed that window shut. Unfortunately, it didn't expire the fellow. That had to wait until Mr. AH got home. <br /><br />* Mr. AH is amazing and got a scholarship. :-)<br /><br />* Gee, I thought there would be more to report. Meh. <br /><br />Perhaps I can report back next time on the exciting exploits of our recent letterboxing. Cheerio!Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8640615747707727256.post-70764553798309077272010-05-30T09:25:00.000-07:002010-05-30T09:56:29.916-07:00Future (mis)adventuresI've had <a href="http://continuingfamilysaga.blogspot.com/2008/04/jack-and-jill-cautionary-tale.html">misadventures in kite flying </a>before, resulting in humiliation and physical harm.<br />This year, however, I have so far escaped injury <em>and </em>embarrassment. At least as far as kites go. How? I've not been able to get out much for some time.<br />Mr. Amazing Husband has been taking the girls out quite a bit while Meemers recovers from her surgeries. It's not quite house arrest, but we're not supposed to take her out in public until all this surgery business is over... at least until RSV season ends.<br />One day Mr. AH took the gals to the park with our dollar special and Ls's bi-plane kite for a good time. The wind was gusty, and soon the kites were torpedoing out of the sky, pieces scattering amuck. The girls came home frowning and jaded with this fabulous sport.<br />Perhaps, I think, I may try to remedy this.<br />I have read that as long as you get the dimensions right on a kite, it doesn't matter how big it is. I found instructions for a super-cool mini kite online, which I can't find now, but maybe if I gather up some of Mr. AH's engineering paper and some broom bristles I can figure it out! Voila!<br />(And by the way, I always wondered, why did I not have "economist paper" in college in which to work my equations? Admittedly, it was <em>economical</em> paper, but I digress...)<br />Maybe we could even trick/talk the neighbors into making kites, too, and we could have a huge neighborhood tournament just like in The Kite Runner! Except without the glass-coated string. Or the kite shredding. Or the running...Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01686656614680759081noreply@blogger.com1