Christmas 2008

This year for the first time since we have lived in this house Paul put up Christmas lights outside on the house! Do you see him way up on top the of the house? I was just praying that he would be safe and live. Grandma/pa Ramsey sent the kids a little package in the mail (new Christmas pillow cases) we wrapped them up and sent the kids on a treasure hunt!

Vivian's snow globe from her primary teacher.
Vivian is prying candy off her gingerbread house.
Everyday after breakfast the kids ate a chocolate out of their advent calendar - Vivian would ask throughout the day "is it a new day yet?" - she couldn't wait to eat another chocolate.


Above:
I have a few nativity sets sitting by the fireplace that the kids play with and rearrange.
We are enjoying Christmas Eve with lots of good food and later fondue!
Porter made the glittery snowflake at scouts.
We have a family picture before we go downstairs to open presents.


Olivia leaves a note for Santa Claus "Santa, I love you. I put the candy out for you to eat. From Olivia"
The kids patiently wait upstairs for mom to get ready....and then they line up to go downstairs.
For breakfast we enjoy Ebelskeivers filled with lemon curd, a family tradition. For dinner we enjoy a ham dinner.

Everyone enjoys their gifts! Corbin loves his new camera, Vivian really wanted a "talking dog", Olivia had to have a "fluffed animal", and Porter has fun with his new building set.

Sledding at Eagle Island State Park

We have snow - get out the sleds! We all bundled up in our snow gear and hit Eagle Island State Park, not far from home. After paying a $4 admission, we played in the snow. The hill was a very gentle slope- which means it was totally safe by my standards! The hike back to the top was very short - which is always nice. The Jensens joined us - notice cute little Haley and Vivian (they also attend preschool together). After the fun, we went back to the van and sipped on hot chocolate.

Gingerbread Houses and Friends

We really get into gingerbread houses. It all starts with me baking gingerbread and assemblying houses together. We each decorate our own house. The kids try to glue on as much candy as possible so they have something to nibble on later. By the end of Christmas break, the houses are bare! We decorated houses with the Richaels at their home. Just a note, frosting bags and kids don't work well together. Porter had frosting all over the place! After all the sugary fun, the kids re-enacted the nativity scene at the top of the Richael's stairs- it was pretty cute.

The Nutcracker Ballet

For the first time, the girls and I attended "The Nutcracker" performed by Ballet Idaho. It was a beautiful performance, they just got a little restless towards the end. They really loved the dancing mice - Vivian was hoping they would return to the stage.

The Christmas Sweater

Okay, most of you know that I am a huge Glenn Beck fan. I love what he has to say and that he has the guts to do it. When his new book, The Christmas Sweater came out - I just had to have it. Paul and I both enjoyed it and then we shared the copy with several other people to read. We were also able to attend his live performance of the Christmas Sweater. I even saw him at a book signing. I didn't get to say "hi" to him because I already had the book and they would only let you in the line if you bought a book from that store (stink- especially after waiting outside the the freezing cold for a long time). Stay tuned to him on Fox News coming really soon and check him out on the radio!

Tree Lighting

This was our second year to attend the Meridian tree lighting ceremony. We bundled up and enjoyed hot chocolate as we waited for the lights. We saw Rudolph along with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus arrive on a horse drawn sleigh! Vivian kept sneaking up to Rudolph, but was too scared to stand too close to him.

My Birthday

My birthday this past December happened to be my all time favorite! Paul made my day very special from start to finish. He waited on my hand and foot. He took care of all the children's needs. They weren't supposed to ask me for any assistance, only to ask dad. He took care of breakfast, treated me to a very delicious lunch at a Ono Hawaiian Cafe (very good food), went swim suit shopping with me (I trapped him in the dressing room to get his opinion because I couldn't try it on and come out with my garments hanging out!), and he also shopped with me at the LOFT (I found a sweater and shirt). Then we took the kids with us to dinner at Carinos - for their first time. They really enjoyed the food and look forward to going back. The crazy thing is that now I can't remember if we ended the night watching a movie or if we had dessert (I am writing this a month later). Oh well, I just remember that I was very happy! Thank you for your love everyone!

Thanksgiving with family

This year we celebrated Thanksgiving in Burley with Mom, Keith, Chad/Marne and kids, Jeff/Tami and boys, Niels/Tara & Gage, Chay/April and girls, David/Tisha, and Chase (Tonya and Ryan stayed in Texas). We had a great time with our white elephant gift exchange - the kids enjoyed it except when their gift was being taken away! I especially enjoyed cuddling with Casen (when he would let me) and holding Julia. Friday morning after Thanksgiving, the ladies went to the Twin Falls Temple and did initatory work. The temple is very beautiful - last time I was there was during the openhouse. Tara, next time remember you are Mrs. Tara Hansen, not Mrs. Niels Hansen! Heee heee heee. By the time our stay was over (we were the last to leave) - many families returned home with a sick member. Vivian was the unfortunate one in our bunch. It was fun to be together, but it also nice to return home to a quieter home!

Christmas photos

I have to tell you that I find it extremely hard to take a decent picture of the family using the timer! I am constantly running back and forth to set the timer and check the last photo. Everyone quickly looses their patience during this whole process. I would really like to learn how to use my Canon Rebel - (these pics were just taken with my little point and shoot). Anyone have any advice - I know some of you are very talented. Do you want to share some of your talents with me? I think it is about time that I learn.

Bye Bye Belle

Well the day finally came that Paul and I decided to let Belle join another family. We all loved her, but there were those times that I wanted to pull my hair out! I didn't like the accidents she had when the kids took her to their bedroom before she had gone outside for the morning, or even all the poop in the backyard. We thought if we got another Boston Terrier that it would help keep her entertained - but that was only double trouble so Patrick only lasted 2 weeks in our home. We enjoyed Belle for a little over a year. The kids were very sad to see her leave - but I have to say that we don't have anymore arguments about who gets to hold her, or distractions of playing with her when we are supposed to be doing something else (like getting ready for school), etc. Our home is more peaceful and I don't have to worry about being here to take her outside. We have promised each other (Paul and I) that we will be dog-free for a very long time. I know many of you know our past with dogs, I always fall in love with cute little puppies and want to bring them home. We try to enjoy other people dogs whenever we get the chance.

Olivia's 7th Birthday

The girls and I attended the Disney on Ice show with the our Richael friends. We all loved the performance - oh, it makes us want to return to Disneyland!

The night before Olivia's birthday we went to Pojo's Fun Center. The kids enjoyed the bumper cars, the thrill of winning tickets and redeeming them for prizes, and all the games. Paul and I were hoping to spend only a short time here so we purchased a limited amount of tokens for each person. Porter used all of his tokens and then went on a hunt for more - he found 11 more tokens that were hiding under machines that people had dropped! It was a bit embarrassing when he was laying on the ground scouring the carpet for more. Eventually we had to tell him to stop. We all had a lot of fun, and I'm sure we will end up again here soon when Porter turns ten in February!

Olivia loves birthdays- she talks about her birthday all year long. She will make sure that you don't forget anything. She reminded me that we needed to plan a special breakfast and get down the special birthday plate. She will be the ultimate party girl because she loves celebrations. She had a great day - it ended with a cake (frosted and decorated by Paul!), ice cream, and a movie (plus fun with the Richael girl's). Olivia happens to share a birthday with Craig Richael, Tisha (my sis), and Jason Steed. So we are busy on this special day of the year!

Halloween 2008

The kids had a great time at the ward trunk or treat. Olivia and Vivian hung around Allie, Emily and Amanda (pictured above). After this, we went trick or treated to a few homes in our neighborhood. After going to the first house Porter disappeared. I thought he may have went home for his skateboard (he was begging to get it). But later I found him trick or treating alone - oh, this boy! I reminded him that it's not safe to be alone. After all the candy collecting, we went home and had the Richael's over for a movie. The kids watched their own movie upstairs while they traded candy!

I love the picture of Craig and Jody - she is a snow queen and he is Mr. Clean! Paul and I need to get in the spirit next year and dress up.

This is Vivian's preschool class. They had their own party, games and fun.

2008 Election

This was a historic day in America where the first African American becomes President of the United States. I am truly worried about our country and the direction it will take under Barack Obama - socialism, here we come. Yes, it frightens me to think where we are headed. I know it is time to buckle down financially, continue following the prophet and church leaders, gather my one year food storage, read the scriptures, pull together as family, strengthen my testimony, and be joyful for what I have. It looks like California's proposition 8 will vote for marriage to be defined as a union of a man and a woman - that is the bright news today. Where is our world headed?

Paul Turns 37

Paul turned the ripe old age of 37 on Monday, October 27th! He had an eventful day. First, he woke up with the kids and made scrambled eggs for breakfast. He kindly let me sleep in because I didn't have a great night. Then we went out for quick lunch at Subway - gotta love those $5 footlong sandwiches. On his way home from work - he was pulled over by an officer for an illegal turn! Luckily he wasn't issued a ticket...I didn't rub this in (but you can). He can be a pretty picky driver - he likes to tell me how much certain violations are when I am driving. Then when he went to clean out the BBQ - he was scared by a mouse. We had the cutest little mouse living in the BBQ! Oh, that took forever to get rid of the mouse. After watching him try to scare it out with water and scare it out with a metal poker, I just turned on the gas and the poor little mouse must have ran away! We couldn't find him again after taking the whole top apart! We enjoyed a nice family dinner and yummy frozen pie (chocolate cookie crust with mint and chocolate filling). We topped the night off with a movie - it's always nice to relax. Happy Birthday Paul, I love you!

A Dog at Church

Saturday we attended the Fall Dinner at church. It was a nice family dinner with entertainment. The funniest thing was that a lady brought her cute little dog in a soft doggy carrier with her. I was surprised to see that - but then later I was totally shocked to see the dog on a leash walking back into the cultural hall wearing a real baby diaper! There was a hole cut in the diaper for the little tail to stick out! The dog walked in like it didn't even notice the diaper. I have to tell you that this is a first for me! I was bummed I forgot to bring my camera - especially when I saw this happen. Oh boy, I hope that little dog doesn't come to church on Sunday in a dress and a diaper! :-)

The Christmas Sweater

Glenn Beck is releasing a new book on Nov. 5th called The Christmas Sweater. He is also taking his story and making into a musical production that will go on tour next month. The show is coming to Idaho and Utah - take a look at this link. You can pre-order the book now if you want. He has a video clip talking about this story from his own life - I think it will be phenomenal.

LDS Apostle protecting marriage and the family.Proposition 8

Russell M. Nelson speaks about celestial marriage.

California's Proposition 8

Earlier in the week, I read an article in the Idaho Statesman about California's Proposition 8. Then yesterday Paul attended the Stake Priesthood meeting (it's our Stake Conference weekend) - where it was again mentioned and brought to our attention. I decided to research it this morning to understand what impact it could have on our families. Please take the time to read the links below. The church has joined the "Protect Marriage Coalition" to fight against gay marriage. They have urged us to join in their efforts; read the articles below to see how you can assist (time and/or money).

California voters are beginning to ask deeper questions about Proposition 8 and wondering what will happen if same-sex marriage is permanently legalized. The answers are unsettling. Consider these consequences if Prop 8 fails.

Mormons renew calls for Calif. gay marriage ban - from the Idaho Statesman

Young Mormons urged to join fight against gay marriage in California from the Salt Lake Tribune

"What's coming?"

I think everyone should read through this article from Glenn Beck. This is his beginning paragraph:

Guys,
If you thought my first email letter answering the question “how did we get here” was on the scary side you’re really going to find this email letter that answers the “what’s coming” question very sobering. I promise you though, my next letter addressing “what you can do to prepare you and your family” will be positive.
Related Article Glenn Beck: What happened?
Here’s my answer to your question of “what’s coming.” Here is the link for the rest of the article (then stay tuned for his third article explaining how we can prepare).

Paul scores & Broncos beat Louisiana Tech 38-3

Paul and I had a great time at the game last night! It's been ages since I have been to a football game - the last time was when I was attending BYU and they were playing Notre Dame. I realized that I enjoy watching football in person - not on TV. Okay, I'm sure you are wanting to know the results of the contest (I called some of you during the game!). Paul was extremely focused until he had his big debut on the field - boy, I was nervous just sitting by him. After the first quarter, they rushed him out on the field. He barely missed the first throw - he nailed the sign in front of the quarterback practice net. For his second throw, he had to scoot back another 10 yards for a 30 yard throw....and he SCORED! Wow! He tried the third throw at 40 yards and missed. He won $500 for that one perfect throw! I couldn't believe it - the net was only 3' x 3' and it was angled and off the ground by about six feet - not a very big target. I was so proud of him! His new football and practice over the past 24 hours paid off. Thanks to Chad for the coaching help. Throwing Coach Chad will be the lucky recipient of my Hawaii -BSU game ticket for Oct. 17th !

Paul gets to throw on the Blue!

Yesterday I had a phone call that I almost dismissed as a telemarketing call. But as I listened to the call I heard some key words - BSU game, football, money, drawing. I was so confused that I didn't understand what she was trying to tell me. First, I asked "how was my name entered into the drawing?" She told me that when Paul and I recently visited with a realtor in a model home - that he entered our name in the drawing. Okay - got that. So what is this about a contest? Well, supposedly either Paul or I gets to throw a football into a practice net for a chance to win $500, $1,000, or $10,000. This contest takes place immediately after the first quarter of the game. After explaining this to Paul, we decided to go for it and attend the game. Paul is going to throw - of course, because I have the worst aim! Paul bought a brand-new leather football last night and showed up on Chad's doorstep for some coaching and practice. I hope his arm isn't too sore for tonight and I hope that he wins something!!!

Tonight BSU plays Louisiana Tech - game starts at 6:00 pm. We will be there at 5:15 to get our tickets (they are provided). You can be sure that I will get some photos and video clips. Go BSU! And go Paul!

From Patrick to Missionaries

Well today we sold Patrick. Many of you probably wonder who Patrick is! Two weeks ago we decided to get a friend for Belle so she wouldn't be so lonely and bored. Well it has been a fun two weeks as they became friends and kept life more interesting. Vivian loved playing outside with the dogs while the others were at school. Even thought he was a loving dog, we decided that maybe we would to the extreme opposite and become totally dog free. I know this may seem crazy because we flip-flop back and forth. We love dogs but not all the work, the poop, the feeling of being tied down, etc. I know - you probably think we are crazy!

So tonight a family came to buy Patrick for their grandpa. Patrick was being a little stink at first and not so sure about all of this. He was being over protective and upset. After a little coaching, we got him to relax and they decided to take him home. I since have called them to check how he was liking his new environment. They assured me that Patrick was licking their faces, laying on his back for a belly rub and enjoying his new owner. The family that bought him had showed interest in Belle - so they may come get her tomorrow.

The story continues.....Earlier when the family was at our home, I told them that I had quite a bit of dog food stored. I told them that we have a food storage for our family and the dogs. So when I talked to him on the phone later the food storage concept was brought up. He said that his dad (grandpa) wanted to talk to his children about that very thing - he said he had some very important information that he wanted to share with them (about their future well-being). That spurred a conversation with him about the church. I told him that we were LDS and he said that the thought we were from things (artwork) in our home (he also has some LDS family members). He asked me questions about tithing, food storage, no sex before marriage, etc. We continued to have a great conversation and by the end he said he wanted to join the church (he has been wanting to join a church but thought he couldn't go to our church because of his tattoos). I explained that if he was interested that he should meet with the missionaries and that they would be happy to teach him and his family. I told him that I would research the information for the missionaries in his area and get back with him tomorrow! So I did - I called the Bishop and he gave me the mission home phone number.

Of course, I condensed this long story for you - but I felt great sharing with him my feelings about the church. I am excited to stay in touch and see what he chooses. You never know what may come from any conversation - this all started about me telling them about the extra food I was storing for the dogs!

Bailout? What's around the corner?

I have kept my eyes on the news, newspapers, and radio programs. On Monday (Sept. 29), the Dow plunged 777 points - its biggest single-day fall ever. As I learn more about our economic problems, I realize that this is a very complicated matter. There has been a lot of finger pointing, revealing information, and fear in the media. Is there a Great Depression around the corner? I feel like it's time for me to be educated and know what is going on (where was I the rest of my life? clueless!!). How are you all feeling about this and what are you doing to be prepared?

More food

A little more stocking up today:
Costco-
2 bags of almonds
1 bag of pecans
1 bag of already cooked bacon (I'm putting all of this in the freezer)

Walmart-
44 cans of chili from Walmart (50 cents each)- they have two years efore they expire.
sandwich baggies
misc.

I have been looking for mapeline flavoring - every store is out! What's up? Let me know if you see any and how much it is. I need more for my food storage.

I also got another rain check for the Hershey chocolate chips and Duncan Hines cake mixes at Albertsons -with their sale they are each 70 cents. Yes, I need chocolate!

I love Glen Beck!

I have followed Glen more closely this past year. I even attended his "2008 Unelectable" show that was aired in theatres throughout the country. He has been encouraging Americans to get a food storage and prepare for troubled times - which has been very unpopular for him. I find insight in reading this articles and interviews as I search to understand what is going on in today's world. I believe that there are rough times ahead.

I have been doing all that I can to physically be prepared (I have been ramping up the food storage again - this time with canned enchilada sauce, green chilies, chocolate chips, cake mix, brown sugar - you name it! After having that yummy chocolate cake, I decided I needed to have more dessert ingredients on hand, too!) as well as focusing more on the spiritual.

Here is Glenn Beck's link if you would like to read what he says. He also has a radio program Monday - Friday 3-6 pm (in the area that I live) on 580 AM. He is informative while at the same time entertaining. He also airs on CNN Headline News in the evening - I don't have cable or I would definitely be watching!

Everything Tastes Good on Fast Sunday!

Today I made a chocolate bundt cake that I thought was delicious! I found the original recipe on allrecipes titled "Too Much Chocolate Cake" - you will have to try this one out! I slightly modified my version.

Also I made a delicious salad dressing -it uses ingredients that you probably have on hand. It was taken from "Roquefort Pear Salad" on allrecipes.com.

Special Fireside

Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend a YW/Leader regional fireside. Sister Barbara Thompson (2nd counselor of General Relief Society) reminded us to always be true and faithful. The Lord will never fail us. Even when life doesn't go the way we planned, it can still be joyful. With some self evaluation, we can be more in tune to what the Lord would have us do. In Alma 37:37 , we are reminded to "Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good..." In conclusion, she turned to Ether 12:41 where it says "seek this Jesus". Isn't that the key to living joyfully? As we center our lives on Christ, we will stay on the pathway that leads back home to Heaven.

We also had the great privilege of hearing from Sister Elaine Dalton, General Young Women's President (remember she was recently called). At the beginning of her talk, she had us all stand up and recite the Young Women's Theme:

We are daughters of our Heavenly Father who loves us, and we love him. We will "stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things and in all places . . ." as we strive to live the Young Women Values, which are:
Faith
Divine Nature
Individual Worth
Knowledge
Choice and Accountability
Good Works and
Integrity
We believe as we come to accept and act upon these values, we will be prepared to make and keep sacred covenants, receive the ordinances of the temple, and enjoy the blessings of exaltation.

I could just feel my own worth as I recited this with the group. She said that people will ask the young women - "who are you that radiate such optimism and light?" And that we will recite our young women's theme with power. These are the ones who are preparing for the Lord's 2nd coming. Remember who you are! We each have a personal, unique mission to fulfill. Love who you are, right now! He has a plan for each of us. At the end of this message, she shared her 100% challenge. Before sharing it, she asked if we believed if the world could be changed with the example of one righteous young woman. Hands were raised as the young women agreed that one person can make a difference. So she shared her simple challenge:

1- Pray everyday

2-Read the Book of Mormon for at least 5 minutes everyday

3-Smile everyday

She wants each of us to live this 100% every day! So I share that challenge with you, and ask will you join me in this challenge.

Framed Temple Pictures

Last year for my birthday some of you will remember that Paul bought me a beautiful framed panoramic pictured of the Salt Lake Temple in sepia tone and chunky black frame. April just brought to my attention that a different company is selling these as a roadshow event at Costco. They are currently traveling the Utah Costco stores and will be in Boise from Oct 31 - Nov. 9. You need to take a look at their website for a sneak peak. Their prices at Costco are much better than the retail prices for example the 24x47 size is listed at $440 but their Costco price will be $169.99! Wow you can't beat that! I called the Boise Costco - so I know that this information is accurate. Just thought I would let you all know!

Trying a new background

Kristen Smedley's blog has a cute fresh background so I thought it was time to make a change. I still want to make a header with photos - I haven't tackled that one yet. I followed Kristen's link to find these cute backgrounds.

Great FHE Book

My friend, Jody, shared this great book with me. I just bought it last week and taught the first lesson. I think it is an awesome book because it directly follows the "For The Strength of Youth" pamphlet. It breaks each topic down into a lesson with fun activities, treat idea, and stories. You will have to check it out at Dessert Book and see if it is something your family would enjoy, too!

Menu Monday

It seems painful to sit down and plan a menu - but I did it! I plan my menus according to the weather! It is true - especially during the summer when it's so hot. Since the first half of the week is going to be warm/hot, I planned my non-house warming recipes and my oven recipes are planned for when it cools down. When it's winter - anything goes because I want to have a warm house. That's when I bake triple batches of whole wheat bread in comparison to the summer I use the bread maker.

Monday - Hamburgers/salmon burgers on the grill, watermelon, pork and beans, grilled potato wedges (Olivia loves these).

Tuesday - Costa Vida Sweet Pork Salad-and horchata (yummy drink) made at home :-)

Wednesday- Club sandwich wraps and sliced fruit

Thursday - Garden Patch Chowder, sliced bread, trifle (My V.T. and I are making lunch for the ladies we visit - I will just plan the same thing for our dinner).

Friday - Sweet and Sour Chicken, brown rice, edamame, egg drop soup

Saturday - left overs

Sunday - carbonara and blueberry muffins for breakfast
Three cheese jumbo shells (Jody's recipe), veggie, salad, garlic bread - dinner

Hurricane Ike

This past weekend I have been following Hurricane Ike which hit Texas Friday night/Saturday morning. Tonya (my sister) lives in The Woodlands, just north a bit of Houston. Luckily her home was undamaged, but many families nearby had trees on their homes. Currently they have a family of seven staying with them because their home was severely damaged by a fallen tree. I just can't even imagine the aftermath of such a tremendous hurricane - they are feeling it now as they are living without power. They do have a generator which is keeping their fridge and freeze powered - but they only have a couple days worth of gas left. Gas is scarce, in any, in the area. Ryan is out all day helping other families and probably getting lots of use out his chain saw. Tonya was very prepared for this storm - but she will definitely get some first hand experience with brushing up on her survival skills and family home preparedness. Our prayers and thoughts are with them.

Below is an update from Keith (as of today) for those of you who aren't family that may be interested.

Hi Again:

At 3:30pm I visited again with Tonya about their circumstances and she reports the following:

The rains and wind have stopped for the most part.
Ryan is gone most of the time helping others.
Her cell phone was working at the time.
All are safe.
The sevenfold increase in their home is proving to be a challenge. With new faces and voices, naps, quiet time, meal time, even bed time is not the same.
From their local emergency broadcasts, electricity might be weeks away, gasoline is hard to find, and to be patient because the answers today might be different tomorrow.
They are concern because they only have about 3 days of gas left for the generator. They are not using gas from the vehicles in case they decide to leave.
Not having read his e-mail , Chase talked to Tonya earlier this after noon and called to report.
Observations:
Mom just tried to return Tonya call at 5:30pm, and no one picked up. While out power, cell towers would have to use emergency generator power like anyone else. Because gasoline in almost not available, they will not be capable of running cell towers 24/7. So calling them would be hit and miss. I think we would be wise to help them conserve battery time on their cell, by communication with each other if we hear from them.
Tonya is concerned if they choose to leave, not knowing for sure where to go, how things will be if left behind, and how long they will be gone. I encouraged them to prayerful about it, and not to decide too quickly.
Thanks for your faith and prayers in their behalf. Let us know if you have anything. Love ya, Keith

Remembering 9/11/01

I read Jeff's blog about 9/11 and reflected of my memories of that horrific day. I remembering getting ready to go to the YMCA - I was just wandering around the house getting Corbin (5 yrs. old - in afternoon kindergarten and Porter (2 yrs. old) ready when Tami (my sister - who lived in Boise at the time) called and told me to turn on the television. I just sat there not believing my eyes. How could this be happening? And Why? I still went to the "Y" and watched how this all played out, I just was in shock to see the destruction, the loss of lives, and the chaos of the three terrible incidents. By the way, I was very pregnant with Olivia - she came two months after this happened.

This also happened to be the day that Paul received his Bar test results that he passed! We went out to eat Chinese to celebrate his accomplishment. It was an eerie feeling as the restaurant was almost completely empty and void of happiness. It was a bitter sweet day for us.

Two new recipes

Last night I made two new recipes that I loved- Chicken Bruschetta and Fresh Tomato & Basil Bruschetta served on sliced bread. Check them out on the recipe blog (this is not a private blog - so bookmark it and refer to it anytime you wish!) Both are made with basil - my favorite herb.

Southern Peach Cobbler

I have some fresh, ripe peaches so I just had to make a peach cobbler for Family Home Evening. I found a recipe on www.allrecipes.com - it was great. Everyone enjoyed it. Olivia even helped me make the cobbler topping. She said that was her favorite part to eat. With over 400 reader reviews and 5 stars, I think this is a tasty recipe. Click here for the link or enjoy the copied recipe below.

INGREDIENTS

8 fresh peaches - peeled, pitted and sliced into thin wedges
1/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
1/4 cup boiling water

MIX TOGETHER:
3 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

In a large bowl, combine peaches, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly, and pour into a 2 quart baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Blend in butter with your fingertips, or a pastry blender, until mixture resembles coarse meal. Stir in water until just combined.

Remove peaches from oven, and drop spoonfuls of topping over them. Sprinkle entire cobbler with the sugar and cinnamon mixture. Bake until topping is golden, about 30 minutes.

Tortilla Chips

Okay, you might think I'm crazy for sharing this - but what the heck! I have steered away from eating tortilla chips because of all their fat - oh, I do love them with salsa. Instead I have substituted them with regular corn tortillas that I bake in the toaster. First I cook them on number four, then they go down again on number two! This makes them nice and crispy so that I can just break them as I scoop on the salsa. I know you can do this in the oven - but this is much faster and easier for me. Cheers to healthy tortilla chips!

Saturday part III

We ventured out to the Taste of Idaho, which was held at the Qwest Arena. Adults cost $5 to get in - the kids were free. We came away with our tummies stuffed with food samples and bags of fresh produce, chocolate milk, yogurt, and treats. Of course, I had to take pictures of our adventure. Part of the Richaels family joined us including, Craig, Amanda, and Emily! This event was to promote foods grown in Idaho.
Here are some pictures of us downtown. The family picture below just happened! We were parked near these old steps (first shown to me during Tisha's bridal photo shoot) and I just had to have a picture. My camera (my little point and shoot) wasn't on the best setting (I didn't realize until we got home) - 800 ISO - so it's not perfect. But I think this picture may work for our Christmas photo - so I disguised it with the green and this funky treatment. You will have to wait until Christmas for the real thing!
We had an eventful day - but it didn't end there. After all that, a few of us had naps (including me) and then we caught up on our household chores. We have to get things looking good for Sunday because it stinks waking up Sunday morning to a mess.

Saturday - Part II

At 9:00 a.m., Porter played his first soccer game of the season. He sure loves soccer! These pictures were taken by Vivian, exclusively! She had lots of fun deciding what to take a picture of - she took several pictures of a dog (but they didn't turn out). Go Vivian!
Corbin brought his skateboard. I had to snap some pictures of him - he's really smooth on the Ripstick. I have tried this and it's no easy feat.