Crazy Lady

The Guardians..

2011-05-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Our Temple

Recent events surrounding our temple.. has issued in 'The Guardians' at night! I am grateful for good men.

Mattie and I jumped in the car yesterday, and took a drive over to the temple.. We sat in the parking lot and marveled at the beauty and the peace that was felt there! We offered up a pray for it's protection, and to those who are guarding it.. We talked about covenants and eternal families.

Even though it was cloudy, it was a beautiful 'Sun'day!

I lost 3 blog posts... hmmm

2011-05-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

3 blog posts gone.. bye bye.. no where to be seen.. hope they are having fun in cyberspace! Say hi to the Jetsons ok :)

Sublime gifts

2011-05-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

"I wonder if you sisters fully understand the greatness of your gifts and talents and how all of you can achieve the 'highest place of honor'. One of your unique, precious, and sublime gifts is your femininity, with its natural grace, goodness, and divinity. Femininity is not just lipstick, stylish hairdos, and trendy clothes. It is the divine adornment of humanity. It finds expression in your qualities of your capacity to love, your spirituality, delicacy, radiance, sensitivity, creativity, charm, graciousness, gentleness, dignity, and quiet strength. It is manifest differently in each girl or woman, but each of you possesses it. Femininity is part of your inner beauty"

James E. Faust, Womanhood: The Highest Place of Honor. We are so blessed, to have leaders that put women at their highest potential with honor..

Be Your Own Beautiful

Window Pain..

2011-05-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Why.. WHY did we choose to put 36 windows in this house?

I really think they should rename windowpane.. to windowpain! If you enjoy cleaning windows, you are more than welcome to come and get squeegy with it!

Do you have window cleaning techniques that really work? Or do you streak like me :)

I have a star-spangled heart

2011-05-10T16:40:00.000-07:00

So.. I was missing in action for awhile! I was heavily into political research and helping in our country's current issues..

Amazing experiences :) learning a ton, meeting some fabulous people, but am now going more local.. I learned that there are so many good people in the world, and some really bad ones :( it isn't a very positive environment.. that is why I have miss you all so much!

I still have a star-spangled heart that will remain beating and fighting for what I feel is right!

It feels really good to be back in the safety of good women though. Te Amo

Trek this out...

2011-05-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

As my daughter prepares for the Trek.. it humbles me greatly to know that testimonies will be gained and strengthened, faith will grow, and lives will be forever changed.. I feel that a huge understanding and appreciation for our pioneer heritage will be experienced first hand.

For all those that are involved in the preparations - THANK YOU!! Tears are flowing right now, because I feel you are giving an opportunity to our youth that will challenge them! Our youth is ever so tested in this world.. I simply don't know how they do it sometimes, so this challenge is needed.

To the future unknown 'ma and pa' that will be taking my daughter along the trail, I am praying for you already :) I can't wait to hear the stories that will be shared.. I am even prepared for - "it was awful".. but the regret will never be there if you try. Even if the words - hard, awful and not fun are said.. I know that there were those moments.. those precious, precious moments.. that strength entered her soul! And for that, it will be sO worth it!

Cherish the friends who tell you harsh truths...

2011-05-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

One doesn't know, till one is a bit at odds with the world, how much one's friends who believe in one rather generously, mean to one. ~ D.H. Lawrence

Cherish the friend who tells you a harsh truth, wanting ten times more to tell you a loving lie. ~ Robert Brault

A friend accepts us as we are yet helps us to be what we should. ~ Author Unknown

I'd want no other.. for my mother!

2011-05-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

God knew the mother I needed..

Her wit, wisdom and wonderfulness, helped me through many things in my life! I A.D.O.R.E you mother :)

God Bless ALL you beautiful mothers..

p.s. that is a pepperstick LOL

Are We There Yet?

2011-05-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Guilt trips! Is it in the 'women manual of life' that we have to take so many of these in our lifetime..? Because we seem to be so good at them..!

The Garden of Gethsemane has become my resting place for years now (in my mind).. I use this place constantly! I made a little personal replica of it a few years back, as a constant reminder of the day the Lord thought about all those I care about.. including myself! You can read about it here. A holder, a lump of grass, a barren tree, and a rock with a little red drop painted on it.. for the drop of blood shed!

Now, nestled in the barren tree, is an actual sprig from one of the 'Witnessing Trees', that was there at the time of Christ's Atonement! A friend recently returned from Israel, and came over to give me this little sprig she found.. I wept for 2 hrs! I had given her a little purple stone to take over to Israel, and asked her if she would gently place it by The Garden.. I never expected this in return, but I was overcome with gratitude!

While Lynette was there at The Garden, she was praying for a personal spiritual experience.. as she reached for this little sprig, she was pricked by a thorn.. and you guessed it, it hurt! She cried and had a little taste of the pain that our Savior suffered for each of us!

As she shared her story, we wept and wept! So about guilt trips.. it is a good thing to feel the sorrow.. but it is a better thing to leave them at the feet of our Savior! Come unto Him and lay down your burden... And ye shall find rest unto your souls" (Matthew 11:28,29) Are we there yet? Please try and be.. and quickly! The first principle of the Gospel is to have faith in Him.. His love is pure and is so unconditional and to be savored and carried with us in our hearts.. there is no fear or worry around the At-one-ment in that precious Garden of Gethsemane! He overcame the world.. (for us)

The Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 7:9-11.. Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: In all things ye have approved yourselves to be 'clear' in this matter.

(for Wendy.. love to you and big, big hugs :)

I know what you tell yourself..

2011-05-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

As a woman, I know what you tell yourself:

You could be better
You could do more
You should be doing this
Why can't I be like so and so
I wish this and that

Give those thoughts away ok...

You are enough! That is why living 'in the moment' is important! That is why ' having a proper perspective about all you accomplish' is important! I loved what Brigham Young told the saints - If you only knew what you had to battle each and every day.. we would all feel better about ourselves!

Give it a try! And remember - we are the hardest on ourselves (hands down) Christ didn't stop and think about if you were worth it, he only wept because he knew how worth it you were.. So much love to be felt and understood!

In my eyes, you are enough! I see the fortitude and all I can say is WOW!!

Box Cars and Chastity Seat Belts

2011-05-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

So for Young Women's, the girls had to design a box car they could sit in, and bring it to Mutual.

Mattie had a blast creating this little gem :) It is sO her.. She got first place too (and the boys were all over it LOL). The great part was.. they had the girls sit in their cars and take a little journey into the world of being chaste! 'Staying on the path of righteousness.' In this world of swerving values.. it is sO nice to have an emergency brake (the Gospel).

'Those Weird People'

2011-05-04T17:13:00.000-07:00

My husband bought a school bus!

Why am I giddy? Because we have some plans! So hubs picked up some of his friends the other day, and gave them a ride.. they were like little kids - hilarious :) The PA system still works too! Ohmygosh.. Hope to paint it up and be 'those weird people'.. What's new!

Remember Dragonfly?

Notice

2011-05-04T09:54:00.001-07:00

I am going to give my notice to quit my job! This will be a harder day, but a necessary.. I can't wait to have my summers back :) and to keep in touch better! I am also slowing down on political research for others.. still got the grrrr in me though.

I have missed so much and can't wait to catch up a little with the most fabulous group of women on the planet!

Love to you today - May the 4th be with us all..

I forgot how to blog...

2011-04-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

I was wondering...

Seriously! I forgot how to blog and it bothers me. I just wanted to let you know that I miss you and am contemplating a blog trial again LOL.. Does anyone blog anymore?

♥ Happy Birthday Nicole ♥

2010-02-19T16:36:00.000-08:00

Enjoy each moment of life... Nicole sure did :)

On a day that should be birthday cake and candles, it is more like a day of tears... Nicole (was Mattie's good friend) would be turning 12 today! I can barely type... If you want to recall her tragic story, you may read it --> here (scroll down)! And if you are moved to give her mother a well wish, you can place a comment --> here! I am getting ready to take my daughter to the mall to shop for a present in her honor and then to dinner.. sometimes life seems so unfair!

♥ With all my love Nicole - Happy Birthday in Heaven little angel girl ♥

(comments off)

I love Valentine's!

2010-02-14T08:51:00.000-08:00

May you each be touched with the warmth of love today....Have a wonderful Valentine's!

Do you Spurtle?

2010-02-06T13:38:00.001-08:00

Ask me what a spurtle was a week ago, and I would have said turtle with a spitting problem :)

This is a spurtle ^ ! You can buy them ---> here at etsy!

Last year, I became a hero for Bob's Red Mill.. you can read my post about them and how this all started ---> here

So how blessed I am to be a hero of Bob's Red Mill? Super blessed... they have honestly stuck to their word, and have sent me products and great gadgets now and again. The latest item was this tool called the spurtle... if you like Scottish or Steel Cut Oats, you will LOVE this tool! I am going to be giving these away for Christmas next year, with some oatmeal attached :)

The really cool thing is, that they had a 'Golden Spurtle Porridge Making Championship in Scotland in Oct. 2009 - BOB'S RED MILL WON THE CHAMPIONSHIP! WOO HOO.. you can read the story ---> here congrats Matt Cox!

A lesson on making the perfect porridge or oatmeal :) Go --> here for the most delightful video on the spurtle!

Discernment

2010-02-04T07:08:00.001-08:00

A much needed gift from our Heavenly Father today..

Pray for the gift of discernment!

I am going to visit blogs this Sunday... I can't wait :) Been involved in lots of things and am learning tons.. thanks for understanding my absence! Jan

Miracles are beautiful - and so is living your dreams

2010-02-02T14:33:00.000-08:00

My friend Carolyn said she wanted to do photography awhile back... she started and hasn't stopped! She inspires me greatly! See her gorgeous pictures --> here

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It is time!

2010-02-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

Prepare!

It is time to prepare! I say this because I love you ...
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Sending you all some love out just because!

2010-02-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

To all of you!

I was reading your comments from my last post, and realize how much I love you all so very much.. you have been very good to me in all ways.. how will I ever begin to repay you! My heart is extremely full of total happiness in knowing some of the finest people around.. Thanks for all you do for our family and myself.. I simply adore you ♥ May you continually be blessed in your lives and may you also continue to spread your goodwill and example to others. It is so needed during these challenging times! You are one, but you are a fantastic one!

God is very pleased with all of you!

(comments off)

Growing up is hard to do!

2010-01-27T07:08:00.001-08:00

My little girl is growing up! I wrote this little tucking in post awhile ago ---> here

I bring this up because Mattie is 11 now, and has asked me to tuck her in everynite since she was able to talk - but the other night, she didn't ask me too :( My heart ache a little realizing that she is slowly letting go of my apron strings... she has asked me to tuck her in each night since, but that one night is a reminder for me the mom, that I better enjoy each and every moment a little bit deeper with this special daughter of mine!

Growing up is hard to do for moms!

♥ Love to you all and enjoy each and every day with your children.. they do grow up fast ♥

Happy New Year everyone :)

2010-01-01T08:04:00.001-08:00

It has been awhile hasn't it :) I am just beyond blessed to have met the nicest people in the world through blogging.. Even though I haven't been doing it lately, doesn't mean that I don't think about you, miss you, love you or don't want to be around you - Ha! It just means I am being pulled in many directions right now...

Caitlin, Mattie and Brian's new wife, Janelle.

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2 beautiful men in my life, working the butt roast :) Brian and Eddie our oldest.
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And here is the beauty of the beast. Thank you pig for making us happy last night!
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I wish for you all the most peaceful and happiest year that you have had the honor in living. I also hope your Christmas found you in a state of gratefulness and surrounded by those you love.

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We live, we love and we learn.. that is how we roll. Take care everyone ;)

My Italian nephew whom I am uber close with :)

2010-01-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

When Brian comes to visit, he hugs me, makes me laugh, cooks for me and gets me! We have always been pretty tight :) He came through the toughest storm to be with us on New Year's Day... okay - that is awesome!

I am probably late with this, but it's funny!

2009-12-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

Twilight Years from Tom on Vimeo.

I am feeling happier

2009-11-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Gods grace is da balm.... (thanks to the you know who's)

Thanks for your wise input

2009-10-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

I am appreciating the conversation that is going on ---->here on my political blog about the H1N1 virus. We all need to have better insight that circles around this subject.

I heart you all very much.

Gifts of Hope

2009-10-24T06:24:00.000-07:00

The Naulu Tribe blog The Mama Hoods Goods blog have united for a fantastic charity Christmas contest. Blog readers will nominate a family in need in the first annual "Gifts of Hope", where companies and individuals will donate goods to Santa's bag to help bring one or more needy families a "Christmas of Hope and Joy" this coming Season.

We would appreciate any products or donations that you have to offer a family in need this season, and what a great way to promote your wonderful products and business!

We know there is so much need out there, especially in these difficult economic times, but through Gifts of Hope, we hope we can share the spirit of Christmas and ease the burden from some families who just don’t know how they will be able to provide presents for their children this Christmas. With your help we will put a smile on the families faces, so what ever you are donating will be great!

There are some business and individuals who have donated products and money, as well as gift cards nothing is too small nor too large.We will also be holding a raffle for individuals and Companies who donate to help fill Santa's Bag which will include....

Nintendo DSI - Target gift card $50 - Bath and Body gift card $50 - Darling tutu - Gift basket from Toys R Us - And Many More....

Email me at makadevri at gmail dot com if you would like to give a product or idea. Gifts of Hope 2009 will start on November 15Th and run until Dec 1st. So start thinking of a family YOU think deserves the Gift of Hope this Season. Please take the Gifts of Hope Button and Help spread the word about this wonderful Charity Contest.

May your holidays be filled with hope and love. Thank you. The raffle will be drawn through random.org Donation button is at the top of the sidebar.. thank you - Devri.

Hi everyone... Jan here. This is being hosted by a good friend. More information is ---> here.

Worst person in the world?

2009-10-20T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am probably one of Keith Olbermann's biggest NON-fans, and when he gets to that portion of his self-serving hour where he rants and raves about the worst person in the world, I am never amused. Usually, though, my brief involvement with the show stops right there. I am not amused, so I turn the channel or find something else to occupy my time.

Last Wednesday, however, good old Keith named an apostle of my church as the "worst person in the world." Yep, Elder Dallin H. Oaks was awarded that dubious distinction simply for delivering this talk (about preserving religious freedoms) to a group of young people at BYU-Idaho. If you haven't already, I hope you will take a look at the text of his address, because despite the fact that it's been twisted and parsed beyond belief by the liberal press, not one paragraph of it merits Olbermann's hypercriticism. Or even his disdain. True, the opinions expressed aren't exactly up Olbermann's alley, but the content and tone is as respectful and well-reasoned as would be expected of the former Utah Supreme Court justice that Elder Oaks is. And it's a free country, right?

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But apparently not quite as free as it used to be. Which is exactly the point Elder Oaks makes...

THIS IS COPIED WORD FROM WORD FROM SUE'S NEWS <---- HERE IS THE LINK

For Chris and Pam

2009-10-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

Click here: Vote for Christopher Jones to help win $5,000 for charity!
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Chris, my nephew that was murdered in May, has been nominated to receive 5 grand for a charity of choice and for a hospital to receive a mobile in his name. We need to get the word out and up his votes! You can vote EVERY day... please vote

Thanks!
Pam

xxoo to your family dear Pam...

I better post to get passed the typo one ;)

2009-10-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

I have had a very tough week. Trials, heartache and learning tons. I am weak...but I am strong. It is the oxymoron's of our life that sometimes confuse us. I am just grateful for friends, family and my relationship with God.

Live and love well.

(comments off)

1 mistake could question your reputation

2009-10-15T13:01:00.001-07:00

I made a typo last night on one of my tweets on twitter. See if you can find the 1 letter mistake.

Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all just got a bong.

Could it have been any worse? Funny how it could apply to some :)

Totally inspired

2009-10-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

She makes it look easy in her challenges.

How can you not want to become better after watching Nie Nie at work as a mother and wife.

H1N1 will be discussed in full details tomorrow on Glenn Beck

2009-10-07T18:12:00.000-07:00

Be and stay informed.

Glenn Beck is going to be gathering the best of the best to discuss the H1N1 flu shot. I think this show should be very informative. Check your local Fox News Channel for your time. Locally it will show at 2 pm, Thursday, Oct 8th.

Thanks to all that answered the question regarding if they are planning on getting the H1N1 shot. I have now only heard of one, that plans on getting it and hopefully she will keep us informed on how it is going for her and others that she knows has gotten one (Kim) thx...

We're all in this together.

(comments off)

Don't forget to watch Oprah today

2009-10-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

Nie Nie is going to be on!!

Are you getting the swine flu shot?

2009-10-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

Sebelius: Americans must get swine flu shot.

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Health secretary urges mass inoculation, calling vaccine ‘safe and secure’.

I am not convinced! Are you getting the swine flu shot?

(comments on)

Here was our neighborhood news coverage

2009-10-06T17:29:00.001-07:00

Our neighbors really came together. There has hardly been any kids roaming the streets, since this story too.

(comments off)

Smooth

2009-10-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Ed and I went fishing tonight, and we were completely blessed by the Sun bidding it's farewell for the day. The water was so smooth, but not as smooth as Ed. It was a boat date :)

(comments off)

Bentley

2009-10-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

A year ago, we lost our little Bentley. Still miss him.

(comments off)

Wow

2009-10-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey R. Holland declared - I testify to you earnestly. Your testimony of the Book of Mormon, pierced my bosom with the fire of the Holy Ghost and solidified a deeper conviction with your earnest feast of truth.

Thank you Jeffrey R. Holland.

Inching

2009-10-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

This picture really speaks to me.

Sometimes I feel like a fearful red flower, out in my own little world looking towards all that glows in confidence and security. But the good thing is, I see that the connection between my fears and the confidence is 'inching' closer.

Inch by inch - life's a cinch. Yard by yard - life is hard.

(comments open)

There is always hope in our midst. Which of course is God.

Watch KEPR News

2009-10-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

We have high school student issues in our peaceful west community. KEPR news came out this morning to talk to some neighbors. We are gathering tonight at my parents house, so wish us luck.

Our neighborhood is coming together :) We will plan on having more meetings if anyone is interested.

1st Amendment

2009-10-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

You may not like my opinion - I am okay with your opinion to not like my opinion.

My eyes see the glory

2009-09-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

Seasons are a sure sign of God's love for change - it validates His plan.

My eyes see the glory....

I appreciate Ed

2009-09-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Every so often when I am shopping for groceries, I get this overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my husband and for the good father and man that he is. He works so hard to provide for our family's needs. Ed is beyond providing just for his family though, he provides for so many. Caitlin tells me that she has never met anyone like Ed. Constantly serving or doing something for someone. His service spills over with many blessings that we reap.

My man is the bread and butter and it is my job to supply the honey... I love you Ed.

You are a great provider :)

Leap for joy

2009-09-29T06:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the emails regarding - what defines you. It is great knowing that there are such caring strong women, that abide over their family. Your children are blessed. Many of you expressed that it is your family that defines you.

As I grow older, I realize more and more the importance of family. It is a unit that teaches us the most as individuals. As mothers, sisters, daughters and wives, we learn the act of giving more than receiving. What a blessing. It can also be overwhelming, challenging and very frustrating, but through those times, we are still learning and growing.

Random - our oldest son has gotten his opportunity he has been working for. We are so excited for him.

Fall approaches, and my heart is happy. Hot days slow down and my body leaps for joy. Favorite colors come out and play on the Earth, and my eyes leap for joy. The cozier evenings to be had with pumpkins and spice and everything nice, makes my nose leap for joy.

Fall was made for my soul...

What defines you?

2009-09-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

You get a question like that, and the wheels start turning in your head...

I don't know if there is a perfect answer to that question. God defines me as 'His Child'.

What defines you?

Correcting some information

2009-09-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Andrew was born just without eyes and optic nerves - he does have sockets. He wears clear conformers and hopefully will have colored eyes some day. (that will be wonderful)

Blind

2009-09-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

My friend Leanne, has a boy that was born without eye sockets. Since he was young, we have communicated on the phone by song. He began to know me and my voice because of those singing sessions. Now he talks quite well with me. I have thought about Andrew often and know that someday he will see again, and what a joyous day that will be for him and his family.

In John it reads - And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

I have had my share of spiritual blind moments, where I could not see God's light shining before me and made another choice that dimmed that light even further. But when I made that commitment to repent and choose the better, my vision became instantly clearer and I was able to see God's light in full radiance and it warmed my soul and was a very joyous day for me and my family.

Often we do get blind-sided to those things of the world that do not matter. I pray that we live our lives in the light of Christ and recognize His constant voice through the Holy Ghost that says over and over again - we our so loved - this helps keep our good sight.

We get to hear more of Pres. Monson's words next week during General Conference.

Some trip images

2009-09-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

The wheels on the bus go round and round...One can hope.

This is the bus that took us to Canada. It also broke down outside of Ellensburg causing us to be 90 min. late.

Finally aboard at Vancouver, BC

Your cabin is that the very end of this hall on the left :P - thanks for the excercise.

Checked out one of the ships 3 pools right away.

We discovered a skinny mirror that we would go to after we pigged at the buffet. It kept our spirits up.

Land after 1- 1/2 days of bobbing on the ocean. My oldest sister did get sick. I wore a wrist band that really helped.
-The first little park we went to on our tour of Ketchican. So peaceful.
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Loved the stories of the totem poles and exhibits. The Eskimo are fascinating people. Our tour guide was from TX, and could speak the ancient language. He was a blast.

This is where we saw the whales. They were too quick for my camera.
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Beautiful weather through some gorgeous channels.

Back in Vancouver, BC to head home.

We took what was called a sample cruise. Just 4 days. It is the best time of year to go because they discount all the stores merchandise before they head home from AK. Not everyone sticks around for it's winter. I am already planning to go again, but this time, we are going farther up. I don't have many pictures of my sisters and I. They have them all on their camera's.

Friday Tip

2009-09-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

Just passing along a tip that I have learned.

Tip - never ever pack 2 things that look so much alike. Did I brush my teeth with the Colgate or the Cortizone 10? Why of course - the Cortizone.

I can honestly say that Cortizone 10 taste horrible. It doesn't foam well, it doesn't clean well, and of course, you can't feel anything in your mouth for a couple of hours. Luckily I noticed right away. I panicked big time too. I am just rinsing and rinsing with water, and then took soap and started cleaning my mouth (which was gagging me), then rinsed some more, gargled with mouth wash at least 5 times, and then did a final brush. I am still alive - and my mouth doesn't itch at all :)

I live so that you can learn...

Home

2009-09-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

I am home from Alaska, but our computer is on the brink of mental computer hospitalization, so I have to get some repairs done before I can post pictures.

Just some things for a quick update -

Our bus broke down on the way to Vancouver, BC to board our cruise ship... They held the ship for us for 90 minutes. The whole cruise, we were "the ones".

95% of the passengers were Canadians. That is a total turn around, because usually it is 95% American. So I did the only natural thing for me and surveyed as many as possible on Canadian health care. Boy do I have stories.

I was mistaken for another man's wife at the border and almost didn't get through. Every time the man saw me, he would smile and say - hey wife. lol

I won a $550 dollar painting at an event. Yippee.

I got to see whales and eagles!! YES.. And some other delightful things.

Everywhere we went, they would say - oh, there are the fun ones. My sisters are awesome and we honestly tore it up with fun and friendliness. Met the greatest people and no one believed that we didn't drink liquor. I really think it is sad that so many feel you have to drink in order to have fun.

Beautiful country.

We ate a ton, but I didn't gain weight (whew). I took the stairs everywhere and the ship is over 3 football fields long - and of course we were at the back of the ship. They upgraded us to a cabin with a deck. We had some great deck parties in tiers and I am sure we annoyed many with our friendly ways, but most of them were waiting for action that we were gladly trying to give.

This is a little journaling before I have to head over to school conferences. One more thing, if you have heard about the 67 yr. old woman that is missing from a cruise ship that they think went overboard, yes, that was our ship...

Bon Voyage

2009-09-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

It's time for me to go North with my sisters.

I wish you all well and hope that you will never forget the worth of who you are. You matter more than you think. Sometimes we are hard on ourselves. Take care and stay strong in all things praise worthy.. xxoo

Happy 222 Constitution

2009-09-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

It is not ours to destroy, it is ours to preserve. These men eventually came together and compromised for the good of the nation. So can we...

Today the country is coming together in prayer and fasting, to show honor to this sacred document. We will pray for our leaders to desire to do the good for the nation. We pray for our troops here and abroad. We pray for our fellowman to strive to defeat corruption that is spreading upon our land. We pray for protection and courage. We pray for our country as a whole. In God We Still Trust...

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Happy National Constitution Day

Greek

2009-09-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Last night, while Mattie and I were discussing her day on my bed, I asked her what she learned in school. She told me she learned that Greeks thought that the Earth was the center of the Solar System.

How do you feel about that Mattie?
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I don't know, it's all Greek to me - Ooompah (enjoying the nightly conversation a lot)

WE HAVE WATCHED & NOW WE GATHER

2009-09-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

I have an awesome family who loves this country. You simply don't tread on us. Here is my niece's amazing letter to Pelosi. We will be spreading it to all of our leaders.

Speaker Pelosi and Members of Congress.

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As WE HAVE WATCHED the happenings of the last several weeks, we are amazed at what we see. There is no comment on the multiplying czars to the President. There is no shuddering at the debauchery that the publicly funded ACORN is carrying out all across our nations. It makes one think, what is Congress doing other than spending our money on things WE don't want.
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For years now, as you and all of our so called leaders in Washington have padded your pockets and served yourselves, WE HAVE WATCHED. WE HAVE WATCHED as you vote raises for yourselves, 401 K packages and plush healthcare insurance. WE HAVE WATCHED as you consider yourselves so worthy of such great benefits since you are solving all of the problems of today. WE HAVE WATCHED as you neglected to give any similar kind of benefit to our military who have actually sacrificed and died for this country while you and your fellow Congressmen pretend to be noble heroes to the American people. WE HAVE WATCHED as you continued to ignore the voice of the American people, hoping that the soft voices of the majority would just go away.
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WE HAVE WATCHED as you let the louder voices of the minority, special interests groups, and of course money paying lobbyist shout in your ear their demands while shoving money into your pockets. WE HAVE WATCHED as you have shirked your duties and responsibilities. WE HAVE WATCHED as you quote with such exactness our Constitution only to TRAMPLE the meaning under your feet, all in the name of serving the American people.
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WE HAVE WATCHED as you have STOLEN, yes stolen, from the pocketbooks of the hard working Americans to give to whom you deem worthy or rather who you think will re-elect you. WE HAVE WATCHED as you, with hypocrisy dripping from your lips, having time and time again promised solutions only to deliver more messes and problems. WE HAVE WATCHED as you have completely disregarded our requests-the very people you work for!
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WE HAVE WATCHED as you have called us names. WE HAVE WATCHED as you have wined and dined with your elite friends and promised them the world while destroying ours. WE HAVE WATCHED day in and day out, the arrogance, lies, and deceit in which you try to sell your bills to the American people.
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WE HAVE WATCHED as you fight among yourselves hour after hour on our dollar. WE HAVE WATCHED you do nothing, all in the name of our best interests. WE HAVE WATCHED as you have shamed our founding fathers' sacrifices and works. WE HAVE WATCHED as you have removed our God from EVERYTHING, only to ease your consciences as you move forward in your works of darkness.
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Yes, WE HAVE WATCHED!! WE, along with all of you, are guilty of not taking the sacred responsibilities that our wise founding fathers left for us to do. Who are WE? WE are the CITIZENS of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
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WE no longer watch! WE GATHER. WE GATHER with our families, day after day, working hard to make this country strong, productive, and great once again. WE GATHER around the table and discuss the news that the White House, Congress and main steam media never seem to get around to covering. WE GATHER with our children to teach them the things you no longer have allowed to be taught in our public schools. WE GATHER in our neighborhoods, looking out for those around us because we know that we can do a better job caring for the people around us than Big Brother can.
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WE GATHER in our discussion groups, talking and learning about your deceitful and unconstitutional bills. WE GATHER in our churches, and praise our God and seek his divine guidance and help in ridding you and your corrupt friends from our God given government.
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WE GATHER in our communities, rallying to fight the unconstitutional laws you keep trying to pass. WE GATHER online, making sure the truth is told. WE GATHER in assembly halls to learn the Constitution and gain the ammunition we need to fight your corruption-that ammunition is TRUTH!
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WE GATHER in town halls, knowing that as we speak out, those around us will be strengthened by our words. WE GATHER all across the nation, quietly but with resounding commitment to take back our government.
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WE GATHER and we will continue to GATHER for we fight for something real. WE GATHER for truth and with it burned on our bosoms we move forward. WE GATHER, knowing that we have the most perfect document behind us. WE GATHER because our founding fathers knew what you were to become and WE GATHER to use the tools they gave us to eliminate you from power.
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WE GATHER and will not cease to GATHER until we have returned our Constitution to what it once was and should always be! WE GATHER!
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So now it is time for you to watch. It is time for you to watch and see what real Americans can do. This is a testimony against you for the watch-less hours you have given to your oath to defend the Constitution of the United States of America.

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With Conviction,

Shelly

Mesa, Arizona

And proud Auntie Jan..xxoo

Go figure

2009-09-14T21:04:00.000-07:00

Mattie and I go on my bed most nights, and talk for about 45 minutes before she has to go to sleep. We enjoy that time together. Lights off, huge pillow between us, and we gabbersnickle...(made up word for gab and laugh)

She has to talk about her day in school. Tonight it started out with gym. She told me she has a tough teacher that is whipping her into shape. I asked her if her teacher was fit. And she proceeded to tell me - of course. All gym teachers are fit.

Me - They are

Her - Yes mom. They have great figures and shapes.

Me - You have never said figures and shapes before (as we are roaring)

Her- Yes I have

Me - When

Her - During math homework - you know, figures and shapes. (got me)

Me - Go figure

Me - Did you have that chick sub today? The one that is sort of mean?

Her - Mom, you have never said chick before

Me - Yes I have - little chicks are so cute

She told me tonight that boys are just weird. How weird could they possibly be? Well, one boy struts all the way down the lunchroom in a King Tut dance shouting - Hey Maties!! Ok, a little weird maybe. Then one boy in my class is a little bit of a trouble maker. How so? Well, he is in the corner sometimes to 'think about it'.. Well that's not weird, that is just bad choices. No mom. You should see when he rips off the tape he puts on his eyebrows everyday and says - man, look how much hair I lost today :) Ok, you win. (we laughed for about 5 minutes tearing)

Oh the woes of 6th grade. Where the boys are still a little goofy and strange. Thank goodness for now. Keep putting the tape on the eyebrows boys. It is fine with me.

6 more days to Alaska

2009-09-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

My sides already hurt knowing how much I am going to laugh with my sisters. I will tell the whales hello... (Ketchican)

9/12/09

2009-09-12T15:59:00.001-07:00

2009-09-12T08:49:00.001-07:00

Glenn Beck on Fox for coverage of the DC event - 10 to 12 am pacific. Hashtag for twitter #912dc - Live stream

Prepare for Mighty Miracles

2009-09-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

We are drawing on the 'Power of the People' and the 'Powers of Heaven'... God bless you all in DC. This is just the beginnings of many many people gathering today in DC. Wish I was there...

Let's Roll.

Musical chairs

2009-09-11T17:58:00.000-07:00

What better than jamming with some friends. Emily, Mattie and Emma.

Where were you on 9/11?

2009-09-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

If you want to participate in answering that question, I am asking over here today :) May we never forget.....

God Bless America - Land that I love - Stand beside her - And guide her

I am grateful for Noah

2009-09-08T22:04:00.000-07:00

Every time I see a rainbow, I think of Noah. It is that connection with the past, and the promise of the future. I am grateful for Noah and the Ark.

I love when the sky is cloudy and then it bursts a pocket of sunshine over some parts. The Earth glows in such a vivid and crisp way. It is like a different world and I just love it.

God is so good in giving us daily presents of His presence.

Hi

2009-09-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

Just checking in. I am going to leave the blog opened now, because - 1. I am hoping that the jerk that was leaving crude messages is gone now - 2. You are such caring people and I want to leave it up so that you won 't worry. I have the best readers with these huge hearts that could fill the Grand Canyon...

You can read a post a little further down for another reason why I won't be posting as much. I am currently working with others to keep our freedoms. It has become very time balancing between that and family needs. That is what is going on.

Updates -

♥ Ed found out that he was born with 2 less arteries in his head. What this confirms to him is that he truly is Edweird. He has been under a lot of stress with his current job and new business, so the pressure had really made his head want to explode. The family is working to keep this man feeling loved, validated and grounded. We sort of really love him around here :)

♥ Eddie is just trying to further his future.

♥ Rylie doesn't want me talking about him :)

♥ Mattie is the happiest school student in the household. She loves being back in school, and remains the boss of us all...

Me - I am plugging along. My stamina is still remaining fairly well. Thank goodness. I am looking forward to our Alaskan cruise that is coming up in 13 days. Can't wait to eat some lobster and hopefully see a whale.

I am going to keep my blog opened, but comments are going to be hidden. I can't monitor them like I use too, and I don't want any sicko's to have free reign. Ugh to them. You can still email me though.

Love to you all :)

Yes - it's that day

2009-08-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

No sleep. I won't have the blow in the blow out. Oh well. Thanks mom and dad.

I am so sorry

2009-08-29T13:34:00.001-07:00

I really do apologize for those that have inquired about being invited. Thanks for wanting too. I feel guilty because of many things.

1. That I haven't been commenting lately

2. That I have been preoccupied

3. That I haven't returned any of your emails.

For starters. There was a someone that got weird in my Crazy space, and it was bothering me. I hadn't been monitoring this blog like I should, and heaven forbid if someone read the comments. Luckily, they would sneak them in earlier posts.

Family - All are doing good. Mattie is anxious about starting school Monday. As in she has been praying that time goes faster. (who's child is this) Eddie is doing good. He attended a course in Seattle and passed, so he is still furthering his desires. Caitlin got a great job and has decided not to play basketball for CBC. That is good, because her knee is giving her a fright. So the marriage may occur sooner :) Ed went to the hospital again and got an MRI and MRA. The results of that will be known Monday afternoon. I hope we find answers. We looked at the dvd of the brain and vessels, and I wasn't happy with one area. But who am I to read those things :)

I miss you all.... a lot

My life has sort of journeyed in a different directions right now. It would be incredibly boring to some, but my heart is calling me to be a full time fighter for freedom. I can't believe the doors that have been opening for me to help too. I am completely humbled. I do some twittering, but have been researching and working with a few groups. I have to honor something that my patriarchal blessing said, and I feel an urgency in learning and being completely engaged.

Spiritually, I am on a vicious feast. I want the Spirit to be with me strongly. My blessing also stated that I will need discernment and to remain close to the Spirit to guide in times of safety. Not sure what it all means, but things are coming clear to me. I really don't want to be portrayed as a fear monger, but I want my family to remain private on this blog as I try to tackle a few things. I have seen first hand what we are up against, and it is not good. There are some pretty wicked people out there right now.

In the Articles of Faith by Talmage it says - Satan exerts a mastery over the spirits that have been corrupted by his practices. He is the foremost of the angels who were thrust down, and the instigator of the ruin of those that fall in this life; he seeks to molest and hinder mankind in "good efforts", by tempting them to sin;

HOPE - Yet in all these malignant doings, he can go NO farther than the transgressions of the victim may enable him, or the wisdom of God may "permit"... At any time he may be checked by the superior power. Indeed, even the operations of his utmost malice may be turned to the accomplishment of divine purposes.

My Master needs me right now, and I was told that if I put the Lord first in all things, then I will receive the desires of my heart. I have to do some things while I still have the strength too.

I can't wait for conference. I need to hear our Prophet. He recently warned of machinations going on.

If I put my blogging on the back burner right now, I beg you not to take it personally. I still love the daylights out of you. I am really doing some things out of that love as well. I pinky swear to that.

I know where you are and when things balance out, I am in your face again. xxoo...

Love, Jan

Space invaded

2009-08-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

I have been invaded by some people in my spaces (blog, twitter, etc) that are not respecting my boundaries. Here are my boundaries. One requires tranlsation and luckily, there is babelfish.com, that translates other languages. I am not happy with what I am reading. They just won't stop either.

I have to go private. It is so very hard to remember the private folk. (it's okay) I might start another blog from scratch. If I do, I'll let you know. xxoo

Battle of blog situation. It is so unfair to have those spoil the fun.

Team Hoyt

2009-08-23T07:41:00.000-07:00

Tourists

2009-08-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

We are here on this Earthy trip for a very short time. We are merely like tourist. Visiting and making the most of our journey. May you choose Christ as your personal tour guide and the Holy Ghost as your GPS, so that we may all return home safely to our Heavenly Father.

Have a great Sabbath

Add your word

2009-08-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

What say you momma?

Hopped, plopped, dropped, but no way flopped

2009-08-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Ed and I were married in a little Lutheran church in the middle of no where on a cold November day. Later, my husband joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (whew...Mormon for short). We had 2 young boys at the time of his baptism. A year after his baptism, he wanted to take us to the Mormon Temple to be sealed together as a family for time and all eternity. Basically forever. Our Lutheran marriage was a - until death do you part, and our temple marriage was a - for time and all eternity.

Saw this picture on Please Sir and loved it. It went perfect for today.

Our family was sealed in the temple 18 years ago. I wish I could say that the boys walked in the sealing room and were acting like 2 little angels. No! They hopped in the room in these high water white pants and one plopped right on top of the alter. But I wouldn't have had it any other way. That is how we seem to roll. I look at them now all grown, and am so grateful for my family.

Mostly I remember - my cup runneth over and was full of joy.

I pulled a Julia Roberts, and now I suffer

2009-08-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

This is going to be so hard for me to admit, but I just have to put this down for the record.

4 months ago, I did an experiment. I didn't shave my pits for 2 whole months. I just wanted to see how it felt and go all Julia. Well Mattie caught wind of it and now she calls me -

Hairy or Harry.

Everywhere we go - hey Harry. I have grown to really like it :) I am not sure why, but she says it so darn funny. I think it will stick forever.

Why I chose to shave is hilarious to me. We had the missionaries over for supper, and they were talking about this girl they were teaching. She is very natural in nature. They mentioned her hairy pits. Mattie looked at me and I just busted. Ed asked me what was so funny. (I totally hid my pits for 2 months from Ed :) I finally just told him this last weekend. He was completely grossed out. Ha ha hairy....

Another gross out courtesy of Jan (aka Harry).

Have you ever tried to go all Julia Roberts for a time? I at least saved quite a bit on razors. I will probably regret this post for the rest of my life. Remember the time you.....

It is that time

2009-08-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for school is all so fun with Mattie. We have slowly been getting her ducks in row. Clothes, supplies and backpack.

She is really excited to go in the 6th grade. She is screaming out loud - hurry up and start. She is organizing everything in her backpack and binder. She is ready to go. She was saying how much fun it will be to wear her new clothes.

Me - is school about education or clothes?

Mattie - both :)

Me - what comes first?

Mattie - of course education, but I want to look good learning.

Loved it. It is her to a tee..

Mattie and Emma sold veggies last week. They made over $100 dollars. Wowzers. I will miss scenes like this when school starts though.

Do you like Nutella? Do tella.. Random, but someone was completely grossed out that we even owned a jar of it.

Notes - I got invited to a breakfast for Bob Bennett in Utah. Karl Rove is the guest. Should I go? I have to RSVP. Is anyone in Utah going? Let me know :)

Our 9 by 13

2009-08-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

The whisking away was a snuck in business trip. I am okay with that, because we just needed to drop off a boat. Whew... We headed to Salem, OR. I love going through the gorgeous 'Columbia Gorge'. It is so beautiful.. They do A LOT of wind surfing on the river in certain parts. It is quite a big deal there.

- Salem is the State Capitol. The Capitol building looks like a Mormon Temple, but this is where law is made.

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So excited to see so many bungalow's. I love that style. This town is old, so the eye candy was sweet.
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This is one of the first homes built. Bush was his name.

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These were 3 of the ladies that roamed the estate. They usually wore hats in the days, but they were caught all natural. I love the candid look.
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This is the oldest green house this side of the Mississippi. Is that a ghost by there?
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Never complain about your vacuum cleaner.

I love this... You decide.
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Another gorgeous house we toured. The Deepwood Estate. They were having a wedding later. The bride's dress was yellow.

-We asked for a booth when we went to eat, and this was the only booth they had. It was very romantic because the curtains closed..

Short trip and then home. Our landscape has changed over the years.

Notes - We had so much fun. It was just so nice to get away. The people we dropped the boat off to, invited us over for a party. It was their summer festival in town. Lots of action. They had a live band and everything. Guess who was in town? The American Idol bikini gal.. We cruised the streets for a bit and had a blast blowing our train horn we have on Ed's truck. We only did it to those little trouble makers on bikes floating all over. So funny watching them react.

I love my husband. We got the senior discount for our room. That was so funny to us. We are going to enjoy growing old together. Hope you all had a great weekend, and I have enjoyed catching up.

Whisked away

2009-08-15T00:54:00.000-07:00

I admit that I have been the worst blogger on the face of the motherboard, but I honestly have had my reasons. Seriously - a mix of blended batter goop. Life, as we earthlings like to call it. And for the record, goop can be good with chocolate chips in it.

My husband decided to go all funky on me and scare me half out of my wits and get sick (goop), he is doing much better. Still no conclusions, but better. So with that being said, he has decided to whisk me away for the weekend with the united - yes go - from the kids. Somewhere in OR.

So we are going to blend and mix our awesome ingredients of love, endurance and magnet attraction, and cook up some much needed couple love cake. And I am not talking cupcake here. I am talking the whole 9 by 13.

I feel my temperature rising :) Isn't that part of a song? Sing it in your heads ladies.

I, Crazy Jan, promise to regain my blog addiction next week and hammer you with love comments and kudos and barge into your wonderful lives once again. I am excited to catch up and read all the latest. Did I miss anything uber juicy? I will be contemplating. Have a great weekend and Sabbath and go and whisk your husband or wife aside and give them a big kiss :) xxoo

I haven't been as tired lately :)

2009-08-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

It is nice to feel a little energy boost lately.

It's the combination of meds and PLUS vitamins (found my combo)... What's the PLUS lately?

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Coconut M&M's. Oh my gosh. Limited Love... Stock up now :)

Top 10 reasons

2009-08-10T16:42:00.000-07:00

Here is my list for the top 10 reasons why I am sluggish on blogging lately.

10. When you have 5 people competing for the computer, and their excuse to be on it is better than blogging :) Should I put education before blogging? Close call.

9. No one around here has done anything crazy enough to warrant an exciting post for all to go WOW...

8. Everyone is sick of me talking about peppers. Enough is enough.

7. School is going to start soon and I need to think paper, rock and scissors.

6. When everyone's summer is looking better than yours on blogs, it is time to start making yours better too :)

5. You hesitate to open google reader because that number will be glaring at you and you realize that the basket of clothing is glaring at you too.

4. Shouldn't blog too much when I need to stock up on toilet paper, but hate to spend the money on something that is just going to be thrown away every single time it's used. Grateful for it though :)

3. When you start talking to your computer screen because it kicked you off of google, it is time for a slow down on the relationship.

2. When you tell your sister to just read the blog to catch up, maybe I should just pick up the phone and tell her.

1. When you have to use the PedEgg for your callused rear, it might be time to slow down :)

You all can relate. I just know it. In all honesty, I have found my perfect little balance in blogging. What a nice feeling. It is difficult sometimes to really make it work well for you and your family.

Do you have any reasons that you may feel sluggish in your blogging lately?

Oh boy the joy

2009-08-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend was fun. It was cooler, so my body was much happier. We got most of the peppers chopped up too.

Oh boy - I only cut myself 3 times with my newest cutco knife. New record. I usually do more :0

We have 2 more piles like this of peppers that we froze. I love that so much. Grateful comes to mind.

I also discovered how to put JOY in doing dishes :)

Funeral potatoes upon request - Here is an example recipe for ya.

1 pkg. frozen hash browns thawed

1 pint of sour cream

1 1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 c. chopped green onions

2 c. crushed cornflakes

4 T. melted butter

In large bowl, combine all ingredients except cornflakes and butter. Put potato mixture into a 9 by 13 baking dish. Melt the butter and coat the cornflakes evenly; sprinkle over potatoes. Bake, covered with foil, at 350 for 1 hour; remove foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Note - there are variations of this recipe. We try to make it our own sometimes :) Some even add cubed up ham.

Thanks for all the fantastic comments regarding Mormons. I learn so much from all of you ...
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Journaling - the new business Ed is involved with, made the front page news on Sunday. So exciting. Our boat and son made it in the same article a few pages in. Kind of fun.

Mormons are odd - I get that

2009-08-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

I am sure when you hear the word Mormon, it conjures up some negative or positive feelings. I understand. I am sure you have been around a Mormon that tells you that they are better than you - bop them on the head and remind them of your worth. Ok...

I am sure you have heard it all too. Mormons carry a 2nd bible around, Mormons wear different clothing, Mormons have 10 wives, Mormons can't drink Coke or Pepsi, Mormons don't drink alcohol and smoke tobacco, Mormons do not believe in Jesus Christ. Whatever you have heard, I am sure it is all a jimble jamble of truth mixed with false.

We are a odd group though. I say that because I can pretty much spot one a mile away. Like the other day in an elevator. I saw a couple and knew they were Mormon - I just said - let's just get it over with, what ward are you in. (ward is what we title the group of members we attend church with) There are many of us, so we put them in sections to fit us in the building. My daughter and boss are also starting to do the same thing of recognizing those Mormon people.

We are usually the ones carrying the most diaper bags and drinking Sprite and eating green jello. We have a universal recipe for funeral potatoes and a fantastic dutch oven cherry dessert. We generally dress modestly, so you won't see us running around much in short shorts or spaghetti straps. Do we care if others do? No, as long as it's not a nekked biking team, then we blush and draw the line there. But smiling and laughing just the same.

Do Mormons drink just Sprite and root beer? No. You may be by a Mormon that downs diet coke like it is crack. And we laugh about it. Some sneak it, some relish it. It just depends. We all have a set of standards, but we all have the choice on where we choose to live within those standards. You see, we are not perfect (shocking I know). We have a reputation of thinking that we are perfect when in fact, we have some serious issues. That is why our knees usually wear out around 60. We have been on them repenting pretty much our whole lives :)

We do have a great sense of humor. Most of us like to smile and even joke about ourselves. A lot of the Mormon movies are pure humor making fun of ourselves. We get that we are an easy target of jokes. And for some odd reason we are okay with that.

I know that most of you have heard at least once "I don't like Mormons". The thing about that is, we have heard it too. Some say it to your face without realizing that we are one. Do we go home and have life stop for us? For some reason we don't. Sure, it hurts, but it doesn't destroy. I think the hardest one for me is that a lot of people have told me that Mormons don't believe in Jesus Christ. I haven't met one yet that doesn't believe in Him. Still looking for that group that doesn't. That one is a little ouchy to hear, but then someone can't really say that to you when you know you do believe in Him. It's like saying - your name is Nancy when I know it's Jan. We are pretty resilient to criticism. Maybe because we have to be.

Being on the outside looking in on Mormons, we may seem odd or a little mysterious. I can assure you that there is little mystery at all. We are rather normal folks trying our best to live a good life as a servant, citizen and fellowman. It may seem restrictive to some and even for us on occasion. Like maybe with that lottery ticket that might be worth 10 million dollars is staring you in the face, but you know that you shouldn't buy it. Why - mostly because we know that we would have to explain the large tithing that we just handed over to the Bishop. We try to avoid the Bishop's office :)

It is pretty boring to let you know that our other bible (Book of Mormon) isn't full of scary things. It is actually very amazingly enlightening. It is pretty boring to let you know that we don't have many wives roaming around. It is pretty boring to let you know that those funny clothes that you have heard we wear, aren't really that funny and we actually consider them quite sacred. It is pretty boring to know that we are like other Christians who believe in Jesus Christ.

There are Mormons that do go around and give the church a different understanding of what we believe. There are unhappy Mormons out there that love to bash the church. You may hear some pretty weird things from people, but ask one that you trust and let them set the record straight for you. I heard we worshipped seagulls once. For the record, I don't like seagulls. They scare me.

You might encounter an invite from a Mormon to attend a meeting or an invite to read their other bible. It is just what we seem to do because we love to share what we have. But don't be scared to invite us to share in your life either. I love learning from other faiths. I have had some great moments while attending a church meeting with a friend. We aren't close minded like most think, we just really like our faith and that may make us seem closed. But I am always open to listen and to share what you have to say. That is what fellowshipping is all about.

Go easy on us Mormons. We are a total work in progress. We do make mistakes and we understand that your opinion of us is based on what you have heard or seen or think. That is why example is so important to us. We do want to be a good example of Christian living, but we sometimes blow that by one act of flubbered it up.

As a Mormon, I want you to know that I love my friends of all faith. I hope that you can love and accept me in my faith as well. Tootles, and have a great Sabbath where ever you decide to worship or be. xxoo

Chop chop chop

2009-08-07T20:11:00.000-07:00

5 different types of peppers. 3 grocery bags full. 5 + 3 = 8 days of work :) Glad I bought a good knife this summer. I am going to be chopping tonight and tomorrow and....

Reflecting

2009-08-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I have been a little teary eyed. But actually in a good ole fashioned compassionate way. I am walking in anothers shoes I guess you would say.

We have been going to the hospital for a lot of tests for Ed. He is doing fine btw. No results, but at least he is coping and moving pain free right now. As we have been in and out of there, I have been around the elderly people a little more lately. My respect for them has increased 10 fold.

If you have been keeping up with the plans of the new health care program that is being debated, you have come to the same understanding of how the elderly will not be as valued for quality care as in a priority. It is saddening to my core. I am witnessing their frustration at various meetings. They are worried and scared.

How can this be in America? That we would callus our hearts to the seniors of this country.

My dad comes over and watches Glenn Beck every afternoon with us. As we listened to Glenn yesterday, I looked over at my father and began to cry. My heart truly aches for those that are feeling left out and disregarded. My goal is to smile big and be kind to those of the older generation. I am seeing their amazing worth in our society and I never want them to feel under valued. They have lived a life as we are living. We will be them someday.

As you watch the media portray them as nuts, radicals and so on as you watch clips of them voicing concerns at different town hall meetings, please don't buy it. They are wanting to be heard that is it. No one organized them or told them to go. They go because they understand what it all means. They are reading the bill.

Wouldn't you like to be a pepper too?

2009-08-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

I have peppers like crazy right now. I am glad too. I freeze them and have them all winter long.

As I have them on my island, I was looking at them and laughing at their long noses that are on some.
-
They look like a row of grumpy peppers to me. Poor pepper people.
-Since we have peppers coming out of our ears, Caitlin, Mattie and I are going to be cutting up peppers all night long.

We have 5 different types of peppers too. I am excited about the variety. It should be a nice and spicy fall and winter around here.

We also had BALT's last night. (bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato sandwiches) How can you not love fresh tomatoes with bacon and avocado? I think we will do that again tonight.

My husband is the bomb

2009-08-05T20:22:00.001-07:00

I haven't been very good at blogging lately. Ed has still been getting tests at the hospital. Today he was given a nuclear shot of some kind, that was full of isotopes. They can actually program exactly where they want those isotopes to go as well. Today was the liver and heart. More testing tomorrow.

So nuclear medicine proves that my husband is THE BOMB...xxoo to you all. (comments off)

Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday. ("Two"sday) Tell me 2 things you plan 2 do 2day.

1. I am going 2 go 2 work and pretend like I want 2 be there 2day.

2. I am going 2 hire a teenager that likes 2 weed. Know anybody ?

I need a shark

2009-08-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Tib - could you please eat some Joy Behar for dinner tonight! Just sayin.

Skills

2009-08-02T22:50:00.000-07:00

Do you ever type a word and it just doesn't look right? Well when I typed skills, I still think it looks wrong tonight.

I really admire people that have great skills. I do have things I enjoy doing, but I can't say I have mad skills that knock your socks off. If I had to do it over (and I guess I still have time), I would learn how to build things. Furniture, pieces of artwork and even something like this bed blanket would be great. I have seen cupboards and benches and amazing wall art that I think - you know what, I could make that. But I never try. I just call my dad :)

So maybe I will take the time to learn how to build one thing. It might be the beginning of something fun.

I have typed out skills throughout this post and it still looks wrong. Spell check says it's right. I need Annette Lyon skills ;)

What is something you wish you could learn and do? Everyday I marvel at all of your skills. Wonderwomen (and a few men out there) I had a man say - hey Crazy Lady the other day. So yo to the men out there. I am sure you have your desire to learn sewing. Come on now.

Our neighbor

2009-08-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

One of our sweet neighbors passed away this week. His name was Ed and he had just moved in our neck of the woods about 2 years ago, and was working hard trying to make his place a home. He was a very good man.

Mattie and I were leaving the house today to do a little grocery shopping. As I neared the road, I looked over and got a little choke up and said to Mattie - I feel so bad about Ed passing away.

Mattie asked me why I felt bad. I told her.

Then she just told me to think of it this way. He is in a much better place mom, and he doesn't have to pay taxes anymore. He also has the best President ever.

That really does sound like heaven doesn't it :) Happy Sabbath friends.

Soliciting

2009-08-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

This has been a very interesting week for sure. I have had a roller coaster of things that have happened. And through it all, we have been solicited up a storm.

We have 2 bottles of Zamu staring at us. Suppose to cure head fog :)

We have a packet of Daily Bread Food Storage sitting here on our table. Anyone buy this yet? The couple was darling, so that makes it harder to resist. It did taste good and we are still deciding.

Some green cleaning liquid that doesn't work worth beans.

The story here is that a lady came to our door in the mid day heat, sweating like a shower head. She proceeds to tell me that she has some little kids that are hungry and she needs money. Gets me feeling guilty right away. She takes out a white washcloth and puts some black permanent marker streaks on it, then sprays the green liquid and proceeds to try and convince me that it works good. I didn't think it did. Then she smudges my door window and sprays it on there, and made it worse because as she was trying to clean up the smudges, her sweat and oils of her skin, just made the window a complete mess. But she had starving children :)

You would think that I would learn from the Living Scriptures. 3/4 are only opened. Kids got too old. It was my neighbor's fault that I bought them. Joking Deb..

The dumbest thing I ever bought was some magazines at my door. After these 2 adorable kids came to the door and sold me on 2 subscriptions, they proceeded to tell me that they needed an extra 20 bucks in cash to show their boss (something or other) I GAVE THEM THE MONEY. What an idiot.

This week really has been a hammering for money at my door and on the phone. I am just warning anyone right now. Don't come knocking for a bit. Unless you are 2 kids on a bike that are wearing white shirts with name tags. And they better say Elder on them. I will open the door for you and even give you cookies and milk.

Finally caught up on blogs and I have missed my daily reads. I have been busy and we had a little incident with Ed and hospitals and horrible pain and tests and those types of yucker things. He is going to be fine though.

Take care and I am soliciting comments. Ha. Just had to say that. It's free though right. Have a super weekend.

Make your voice heard

2009-07-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

I received our ballots in the mail. 4 names. Yes, I have seen their signs around town. Some bigger and fancier than others. I also got a flyer in the mail that was pretty and looked good. But this year, I am not going to go by just seeing who had the most campaign money and what some are saying. But honestly, I hadn't really heard much about my local candidates.

If you would like to know more about your local candidates that you want to vote for that you will feel would best represent you, then go to the online voters guide.

If you live in the county, go here. Click on the left where it says 'elections'. At the top, click Franklin County Auditor. Then on the left, click 'elections' again, then click the 'online voter's guide'. You will be taken to your district. Find it and click there and you will find the candidates statement. (Isn't it super fun to work with government run sites :) Or just go here.

I am telling you this because I thought I had my mind made up. Then I read their statements and then visited their websites and quickly changed my mind to another person. I am so glad I did. I know what type of person I want to represent me and the one I thought I did just by hear say, nope...

Make your voice heard the way you want :) August 18th

(comments off - still busy with business things)

Milking my 15 minutes of fame on Bill O'Reilly :)

2009-07-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

Quote of the day - The only hotdog that needs a warning label on it is a “Barney Frank". PaulKroto

O'Reilly: The only hotdog that needs a warning label is the Barney Frank!! LOL ! dlueking

Did you hear the joke of the week?...? from an O'reilly viewer: "the only hot dog we need to put a warning label on is the BARNY frank"...he......he......he..... RANDY

Sorry I have not been commenting or blogging much lately. I have been involved in something that requires a lot of research and hands on. I will catch up as soon as I feel the balance to do so. Keep living your good lives and thanks for all your support. You are gems.

Oh my gosh

2009-07-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

I am dying right now. I was quoted on Bill O'Reilly tonight in an email - Bill had been talking about putting warning labels on hot dogs.

So I emailed him right away and said - The only hot dog that needs a warning label is the Barney "Frank".

-
Still laughing.

Meet it

2009-07-25T17:59:00.000-07:00

The purpose of Christianity is not to avoid difficulty, but to produce a character adequate to meet it when it comes. It does not make life easy; rather it tries to make us great enough for life.

-- James L. Christensen

Have a great Sabbath.

2009-07-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Tootles for a few of days. I am going to ..... xxoo
(comments off)

Miss Callie is moving and I am so sad

2009-07-21T09:02:00.001-07:00

I am losing one of my girls that I do activity days with. She is moving to American Fork, UT. I use to live in Springville and worked there. I am going to miss her terribly.

My camera screen showed cracked last night, but I took 2 pictures and so glad it worked. It is a blessing to get to know these sweet girls and watch them grow up.

Last night, I decided to take the group to IHOP and get them some dessert. It was almost completely empty in there. Good thing though, we laughed a little too much. In fact, we were laughing so much, that I told the girls not to tell their parents how much fun we were having. Then Kenley ( one of the girls ) piped up and said - what about your daughter Mattie. I completely forgot that I am my daughter's leader too. Then we busted up even more when I realized that my daughter was there and I was one of those parents. Ooops.

In honor of Callie leaving, they decided to lick their plate clean. I know. I am horrible to allow such nonsense. But trust me, it was such a great evening. I honestly do promote good manners and teach them wise information, but I also believe in cutting loose sometimes and going straight for the goof.

I love my girls. We shared advice for Callie. Some of the advice given was this - stay away from lightning at all times and goofy things like that. I told her to choose good friends and keep up her smiles and good choices and she will be fine.

We love you Miss Callie and have a great new adventure. And all those that live in Utah, if you see this cute little face roaming around, give her a hug for me.

Another gross out brought to you by Jan

2009-07-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

There is magic in the all wonderful SARDINE.... Yes, the sardine is such an under appreciated form of fish. Their calcium rich bare slimy bones that linger in the middle of them, making them a great health food for women. Rich in 0mega's 3 and 6, calcium and iron.

- We love sardines around here. I am Norwegian though. That might have something to do with it.

( warning - do not scratch and sniff picture )

Even though your home will smell like a fish factory straight off the coast of Alaska, your inner body will be going - oh, she is feeding me something I am craving. Your skin will drink up the omega's and say - thank you for making me beautiful and soft. Your bones will say - thank you for keeping us strong and dense.

So if you haven't gone to the store lately and bought up sardines, I highly recommend you retry those luscious little compact claustrophobic cans of wee little fish. And no need to send me thank you cards. I am sure that it might involve some hate mail :)

Let me know what you think about these cute cuddly fish...

I adore this idea

2009-07-20T07:21:00.001-07:00

This wall was made for a wedding shoot. It makes me want to cut some holes in the wall.

People are so creative. Wouldn't you love to have a family picture like this? I am so thinking about building this wall and having people use it. L.O.V.E. I.T...

family notes - my son bought a king sized bed (jealous). Mattie asked if she could sleep with me, and I said - what about dad? She then piped up and said - oh, he can sleep with Eddie now. (my answer to those snoring nights)

I hope this week is a gallery of happy pictures for you and your family.

Mascots

2009-07-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

I was born and raised in a super small community, but boy, could they play sports. They have always been pretty good. You know those farm boys and girls develop some pretty mad skills.

My high school mascot was the 'Knights'. Tough, unpredictable and there to fight hard to win.

My favorite cheer was - f-i-ght, fight team, fight hey.. Or push em back push em back - way back.

It's funny how you don't forget your mascot or some of those cheers. I guess it can unify a community as well.
-

My official blog mascot is the 'Box of Chocolates'. You never know what you are going to get.

Eat em up eat em up - all up!! Chew em out, chew em out!! Pick the nuts, pick the nuts :)

What was and is your mascot?

Smart water

2009-07-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

I am setting here preparing my lesson for today, and I was drinking a smart water. I was thinking about what I was studying, and it occured to me that there is really only one true smart water. And that is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The living water is the gospel of Jesus Christ - its communicator is the Holy Ghost. It may take a lifetime—and longer—to refine our spirits fully, but the living water is available to all, including the young. [kathleen hughes]

We are refreshed continually by an abundant stream of eternal truth that, if obeyed, brings the living water of the Lord into our lives. He encouraged us to drink more often and more deeply of the living water to bring spiritual enrichment into our lives. [joseph b wirthlin]

Do you wish to partake of this living water and experience that divine well springing up within you to everlasting life? Drink deeply of the living waters of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Hold on tight. It is the only quench that is ever lasting :) Happy Sabbath.

It's hot here

2009-07-18T17:46:00.001-07:00

I know it is boring to most, but I journal here so this is what you get. More pictures.

Caitlyn and Mattie doing the tubular tube moves.

Caitlyn surrounded in her favorite color - blue.

Shh shh shh shh..... a rare picture of my son that I am not suppose to journal about. Hope he doesn't catch me.

Eddie doing the tube.

And then showing how it can hurt.

And of course - Mattie as happy as can be in the boat with family. Rhyme.

So it is hitting over the 100's on my temp reader. How's the weather your ways?