Nesting with Grace and Faith

Lola's Birthday!

2011-11-30T21:11:00.000-08:00

Lola just turned 1! She is such a JOY! She walking everywhere, she says "hat" and wants one on right when she wakes up, she says "Momma" and recently "Dadda", she has to sleep with her pink blanket that she shoves in her mouth, she yells "Ella" it doesn't sound perfect but we know that she wants Ella, she is a very good eater, loves all veggies and now cupcakes. She loves to sit and look through books and pull them all off the shelf.

So we had a Book Party for this little sweetie!

Ella made Lola a card, it was so sweet I walked up and Ella was showing it to her. Lola sure does love Ella, and she sure will bite her if Ella takes something from her...Agh the fighting has already started!

She held her cupcake in her hand so cute.

And loved every last bite, but who doesn't love Brittany's cupcakes!

Ginger Bread House Contest 2011...take 2!!

2011-11-30T20:22:00.000-08:00

Hate to admit this but it took us two tries to get our Ginger Bread Houses standing! I don't even want to add up the money we wasted and the hours spent...it is the Memories RIGHT??

They are Priceless...

Kevin trying use self control...when he could tell they were not holding up he asked if he could just smash it in! We really could see everyone true colors, when Gingerbread housed go bad!

Ella was in heaven...she visited every station and sampled the sweets.

Last attempt...trying to work together

Here they are...worthy of a photo shoot...

Pam and Mandi were our big winners, they took the trophy! And also the Award for Taking the Longest!

Tiff and Bobby won the Award for "Most Bucks spent!" She had a cute Necco roof and sucker lampposts.

Greyson and Chris took home the "Hunky Award" they really tried hard!

Mom and Dad took home the "Looks the Best Award" because "Fake always looks good" they went with a Bird House...they should have been disqualified since only a Beaver could actually eat it!

Kuehne family took home the Award for "Most Christmasy" it was festive!

No ours is not a church, it was a Princess castle!

The Winner of 2011 Ginger Bread Contest! "Beach House"!

We all have a Play Room!

2011-10-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

I was running one morning and looking in this room that was my sewing room/workout room and couldn't keep my wheels from turning on making it a play room for my girls and a sewing room for me.

That way we can all play at the same time and be in the same room (yes, my play is sewing).

We started painting the next day (by we I mean Kev).

I was searching for the "Dwell Studios" pillow from Target with the yellow flowers and it is always out of stock. So I thought I have yellow fabric, I can just make myself one (should have done that in the first place, rather than waste my gas to Target...who am I kidding I am there at least once a week)

These cute pictures and music book pages are from a Primary Songbook that we had when I was little. Love all the pictures, it was hard to choose what to frame.

Ella and I picked: Oh what do you do in the Summer Time, Where Love is and Do as I'm doing.

Collection of Cards friends have given me that are my favorite in this Vintage Shutter.

Kind of wanting to move that gray settee up to my dining table for a change...

and putting this one in the Play Room.

Crazy??

I need to find the right time to spring that on Kev!

Where is my Focus?

2011-10-06T21:31:00.001-07:00

40 Bottles of Tomatoes on the WALL! No really they are messy and get everywhere! Noway around canning without dirtying every dish towel you have! I have canned, pears, peaches, tomatoes and beans. I am throwing in the towel...and maybe I should have a while ago because this happens...

Cutie Pie Lola banging on the glass doors. I thought "Oh little Lola having so much fun" then I thought she might have shut herself in Ella's room and she did...no tears just all smiles!

LOVE her!

And Ella being a good Big sister feeding Lola while CAN...what else?

Tis the season for the Crock Pot and a good way to use those tomatoes

My Favorite Chili Recipe

2 cans 14 oz each Tomatoes

2 cans 14 oz each Kidney Beans (rinsed)

1 lb cooked Lean turkey

1 can 14 oz Black Beans

1 can 12 oz Tomato Sauce

1 C chopped Yellow Onion

1 C chopped celery

1 C chopped carrot

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

4 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground red pepper

1 tsp salt

Slow Cook on High for 7 hours

Swedish Cream Wafers

2011-08-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

Remember these?? What dreams are made of...Swedish Cream Wafers. The Big winner at The Black Goose Designs Cookie Exchange brought to us by Lisa Dodge. (They are the big LOVE cookie front and center)

I finally attempted to make them for Jen's Birthday. And they turned out wonderful...just not as fancy as hers looked. My Mom tried them and she said that they were better then Smart Cookies, and that is a big deal people, Smart Cookies are her favorite!

Here is the recipe... try them you will like them!

Swedish Cream Wafers

1 cup soft butter ( I use unsalted)

1/3 cup whipping cream

2 cups flour

Granulated sugar

Creamy Filling

Mix thoroughly butter, cream and flour. Cover and chill.

Heat oven to 375*. Dough will be stiff and a bit crumbly. Knead to soften. Roll about 1/3 of dough at a time 1/8 inch thick on floured cloth covered board. (I roll mine between two sheets of parchment paper instead). Cut into 1 1/2 inch rounds.

Transfer rounds to bowl of granulated sugar; tun each round so that both sides are coated with sugar. Place on un greased baking sheet. Prick rounds with fork about four times.

Bake 7-9 minutes or just until set, but not brown. Cool. Put cookies together in pairs with Creamy Filling.

Creamy Filling:

Cream 1/4 cup soft butter or margarine, 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Tint with few drops food color. Add few drops water if necessary for proper consistency.

(I make mine with cream cheese frosting instead, but both are great)

Ella's BIG day!

2011-08-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

Ella started Preschool yesterday! Here she is at orientation last week. She kept saying you are staying with me right? I said yes, TODAY but not next time. At orientation she didn't let me leave so I could watch the orientation video. She played really well, but didn't want me to leave the room. So I knew preschool drop off would be hard...and I was right. She talked a big game and said that other "little kids" might cry and be sad so she would hold their hand and help them.

When it came time for the preschool teacher to get her out of the car, Ella said I want my Mom to do it. So I parked and took her in (big mistake, and it probably said that in the video I missed) she started to cry and say she wanted me to stay. She was sooo sad! It was so hard! Her big brown eyes looked deep into mine, saying don't leave me! Thankfully my sunglasses were on my head, I had to put them on in the building so she wouldn't see me cry and have the teachers judge me, like oh you are the problem here! I finally gave her to the cute girl helping (after some coaching from the owner, to just walk away and not negotiate). I waited in the parking lot for 10 min and went in to check on her, they said she stopped crying but was just sitting there not participating. I left and called 30 min later, they said she was happy, no tears, and participating! YEA! Hard day! When I got home I researched the pros and cons of her going to preschool and decided it was good for her to go :)

Ella and her friend Maddy. She is going to carpool with her on Thursday, so I hope that it will go smoother having a friend to walk in with her and not her mommy...crying!

All ready for her first day! We did all the tips they suggested, taking it slow and relaxed in the morning, talking about all the fun things she would do. Painted her nails, made her a cute little bag (they can't take backpacks to her school) put on her cute new clothes her Grandma Karen took her to get, so she would be excited. But somehow she still had a hard time :( I think Lola will have a much easier time, now I know what not to do!

On the ride to school I asked her what she was thinking about and she said "just about the snacks we will get and water." (just like her mom, thinking of when she can eat next!)

Then when I picked her up she was ALL smiles! She loved it. She said her favorite part was painting, reading books and playing on the playground. Then she said she didn't get a snack. She said all the other kids did but not her. I almost called the school, but after talking to her more I think she was making it up,

that never happens :)!

This morning she said..."do I get to go to school today?" Ahhh...music to my ears!

They call me mellow YELLOW

2011-08-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

The obsession started with seeing these YELLOW bar stools in the August issue of Better Homes and Garden. Meet Jeni, in her kitchen, she owns Jeni's Ice cream and is having a fancy little ice cream party. I totally want to go to this party! I am also obsessed with homemade ice cream right now, so I think she is awesome! I emailed "my friend" Jeni here and she emailed me right back. She got them at Design within Reach...looked into it and they will set you back close to $250 each. I found a knock off on Overstock and got four for the price of her PERFECT one. They won't ever be Jeni's bar stools but I can come close with the right paint color and the right painter (Kevi).

So I have yet to paint the bar stools, but ALMOST everything else is getting coat of YELLOW paint. I love them in my kitchen. They take up less space then my other ones did and I like the simple clean lines.

Little cutie Lola just a rockin... I think she likes YELLOW too,

she looks good in it!

LOVE these YELLOW flowers from my favorite store...The Black Goose!

YELLOW pub table, looking all spiffy for Book Club.

YELLOW tray. If I can't paint it yellow I will put it IN something yellow!

This is the yellow I used: Benjamin Moore Marble Head Gold

Benjamin Moore's Concord Ivory is a nice one for walls (Rach let me know how that goes..ha!)

and I am going to do my barstools in Stuart Gold (I think :)

You too will be obsessed with homemade ice cream after making this...

Rocky Road Ice Cream
from the OurBestBites cookbook

2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup low-fat milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon vanilla
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 cup mini marshmallows

1. Gently whisk cream, milk, sugars, vanilla, and cocoa powder by hand for about 2 minutes to incorporate the cocoa powder and dissolve the sugars.
2. Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. When the ice cream has finished churning, fold in the pecans and marshmallows by hand and transfer to a freezer container. Freeze for 1-2 hours or until desired consistency is reached

What do you see when you look at your pictures??

2011-07-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

After looking through my camera phone and camera pictures I realized 3 things...

#1- I need a better camera or photography lessons! Angie Seare could take a picture of her family sitting on a pile trash and we would all be like "where were you? It looks Spectacular!"

#2- We have done some fun things this summer even if it is within a 15 mile radius of our home

#3 My hair changes a lot and I deleted a lot of pictures because I don't like my hair (nothing to do with the hair stylist)! I think oh I like it dark or I like it light or I like this "ombre" hair look (not! who I am kidding I am not a movie star nor do I have long hair)

Anyways this is what we have been up to!

We went to Tuachan Theater in St. George with my family. We had such a fun time, we stayed at one of my generous clients second homes. Went to Little Mermaid and it was darling... until about intermission when I had a confrontation with a man who turned his entire body around and gave Ella a dirty look for crying, Hello it was intermission and you are at "The little Mermaid" a Disney production SIR! And then it didn't get over until 11:30. Pretty late when you start your day at 6:00. I got to go for a very nice early run along the red rocks, when I got back Kev said I would have went with you... SHOCKED I said you can go with me tomorrow (I don't think he thought I would say that, he works out every day but always says he hates running!) That was one of my favorite parts of the trip being able to work out with Kevi, something sexy about getting sweaty together! HA! Oh and I beat him when we raced to the end.

(hey this is MY blog I put it how I remember it!)

Ella saw the Grease cast come out after we saw that show and wanted to have her picture with them and meet them and Mandi secretly wanted to I think!
Doing a little hiking, all geared up!4th of July! Early neighborhood breakfast, Parade and REAL game, oh boy! Lola might not look it but she loved the fireworks...that is her excited scream! And Ella was a little concerned with the noise and when her Dad was going to come up after the REAL game from doing stitches on one of the players.

Britt and Boston, so sweet!

Did a little hiking up Bell Canyon trail. I love being able to do that. Lola loved it as much as Ella did when she was a baby, she fell right asleep.

Did the ZOO thing. I thought it was a good old time...and in this picture it looks like it was. So how do you go from this to...

Ella dragging her plastic chair to the center of the Zoo courtyard because she was mad at someone or something...who knows with this girl.

But then she can go to this... Creates a pillow mountain (no shortage of pillow mountains at my house) and goes to sleep! So sweet.

Nothin But a Hound Dog!

2011-06-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Ella had her big dance concert! It was such a neat thing to experience with her. She was very excited and wanted to make sure we were on time...you would think that I was late all the time the way she was worried about missing any of it!
She practiced a couple times the night before and gave it her all, I could tell by how hot and sweaty she got. She remember all the instructions from the Dance instructor, such as "no underwear, bangs back and a high pony tale."

After the dance she said I need some more of your makeup, it kind of came off!
Kevin said it is so funny how kids don't get nervous, I said oh I think some do, one little girl was back there crying for her mommy (so sad) Ella just wasn't nervous at all. She just wanted to review with me everyone who came to see her dance...such a Diva already!

Scroll down for the Performance!!

Waiting back stage, so excited! I left my camera out front and I had to run back and take this picture of all the cute girls waiting to go preform.

All her BIGGEST fans!

I LOVE how hoppy she is! And you can see in the middle she stops and looks at her finger that had a band aid to see if it was still on! I think when she plays the "air guitar" is the BEST!

Mamma Bear

2011-05-01T12:52:00.000-07:00

Let's have a collective sigh...Brittany had Baby Boston on April 25th

She let me be in the room as the miracle happened. It makes me start to tear up when I think about it. I had a wave of memories of Lola being born. Brittany did great. After he was getting all cleaned up Britt was looking at him and took a deep breath out and said I can't believe he is really here, that it actually happened. She has had her fair share of difficulties with babies.

Brittany and I weren't ever super close growing up, we were too close in age and too different to get along. But I can honestly say now that she is my best friend. Now we are a lot alike. When I think of what a best friend is I think of her. She is so amazingly helpful and so loving to my girls. She has watched Ella and recently Lola since Ella was born for at least one day a week. I always knew that Ella would get a nap (and usually a napping partner) and that Ella would ALWAYS do something fun either it was make a fun treat, get nails painted, go on walks when Britt had her.

Brittany is always first to offer to bring something whenever we have a party and to help in anyway, she can always think of the perfect gift to get my girls (I am the worst at that), she comes by my work often and has brought cupcakes, cookies or a shake or best of all a visit from Ella when she watched her.

And let's face it Britt is just fun to be around...she is funny, likes to bake as much (maybe more) as I do, she loves doing projects on her house (again maybe more) as I do, she is always up for just about anything and supports me and my family (she is a big RLS fan now too!)
I get emotional when I think of how grateful I am that Ella and Lola have each other. What a blessing Brittany has been to me. Love you Britt! Congratulations on that little sweetie Boston!

Got the Giggles?

2011-04-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

Lola has only giggled three times and everytime Ella has made her laugh! (Sorry in advance for the kink in your neck and for the half eaten pizza!)

Go REAL!

2011-03-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

We finally got to go to a REAL soccer game and sit in some awesome seats!

Ella loved every minute of it and so did I. Especially love that it is only 2 hours and it is non-stop action, they are a ton of fun! And we got to watch what Kevin loves to do everyday at "work" if you call it that. Ella kept saying "if one of the players gets hurt, Daddy goes out and fixes them."

BTW- I did get a hair cut and while Britt was cutting it Ella came down and started to cry when she saw me, saying "I don't like your hair short, it is weird!"

And yes I still continue to go out in public after that comment and post a picture of myself.

Lola stayed home and played with Grandma and Grandpa on their 30th Wedding Anniversary!So lucky to have such amazing parents who love each other, what a blessing they are in our lives.

Brooke's Dream Home 2011

2011-03-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

This was a Dream project for a Dream Client. I was able to help them from the start of the building process. Selecting the floors, tile, paint, lighting and fully furnishing it (with exception of one little accent table that she brought from her old home).

Lastly I was able to do my favorite part, accessorize! This is the 2nd home I have helped them with, the first was a St. George vacation home. She had told her hair dresser that she will never buy anywhere but The Black Goose Design... I love her for that! Here are some pictures.

Library

Master Bedroom

Quilt Room...imagine what you could create if THIS was your quilt room!

Cute little bathroom.

One of two that have wallpaper..it is so back!

Superman? You be the judge...

2011-02-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

Where is our tramp?

Kevin asked when he got home from work on that WINDY Wednesday last week. It was in our backyard earlier that day?? Um...didn't think I would have to say this "check the river!" Yes people it blew over our fence and was down in the river!

I was no help with two little girls inside (and I was busy taking pictures, hello!)

So Kevin PULLED it out the river, UP the hill and then DRUG it down the road to the bridge and then LIFTED it up over the fence! I could help at that point, really only hold on as it pulled us like a balloon to our house.

He is SUPERMAN in our book :)

Don't worry Ella it is back, safe and sound!

I feel sick...

2011-02-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

For 7 years we do a cookie exchange on Valentines at The Black Goose.

For 7 years I eat WAY over my calorie limit for the day and I end up feeling sick about it

and to my stomach!

EVERYTHING is just too good to let go un-tasted. In the past we have the warehouse guys vote on the winner, sometimes there are awards given from best presentation, most healthy, best overall and best effort! This year Lisa's cookie in the very front won, it was a vanilla wafer cookie...it tasted like buttery shortbread, to die for! I will get the recipe and post it!

My sweetie brought in my two girls to my work with cupcakes and brownie bites from Sweet Tooth Fairy and a darling plant. Now those Brownie Bites are out of this world!!

Red velvet with white chocolate cookie, brownie bite, shortbread cookie, coconut cupcake yes people I ate all of that! OH and half a sugar cookie!

Love to EAT on Valentines and Love to see it go (hopefully it goes off this body:)

Made up for lost time...

2011-02-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

We had some events to Celebrate when Kevin got home! First Ella's Birthday party! The first day Kevin was home he put together a trampoline in the 30 degree weather, can we say January Birthdays suck! She has jumped one it once but he really wanted to have it put together for her.

Brittany made the most darling cupcakes for Ella's princess party. Belle had little books, Snow white had apples, Cinderella had stars and Ariel had fish! She is the Next great baker...and I am next on the biggest loser if she keeps it up!

This was my favorite part of the night. Ella sang along while we sang Happy Birthday to her.

NEXT event we Blessed Lola! She wore my baby dress that Ella wore also, such a doll.

More pictures of food...isn't that why people come to your events?? Come on...there will be food! (And can you bring cupcakes? :)

And we are done!

While you were gone...

2011-01-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

Kevin has been in Phoenix for Spring training with REAL soccer team...for 10DAYS! We miss him and are very jealous of the 75 degree weather he has been enjoying, wish we were there rather then here. Every morning Ella will ask "Daddy Home?" and say "I really miss him."

Kevin and Dads in general I think are just funner, they rough house and are silly. So I have tried to be more like a Dad...tickle and be silly, rather then worrying about the laundry (which is so not important when I think about it that way).

Ella turned 3 while he was gone and requested "Biscuits and Gravy" for her Birthday breakfast, which I don't make, that is Daddy's thing. So she picked her second choice, steel oats with a side of a CUPCAKE!

My friend Laila gave me a great idea to do a Journal for each of her girls. I was telling her that Ella says and does so many cute things I want to remember. I would love for her to read it as she gets older, and for her to see how her personality was developing at such a young age. She is SO friendly- she will walk up to every girl after dance and wave and tell them bye! If I run into someone at the store that I know and stop and talk- after Ella will ask me "what was her name?" I sometimes have to tell her "I have no idea" and she will say- "We will have to ask her!" (she doesn't understand that I SHOULD have known her name :)

I also love when I ask Ella "what are you doing?" she says "anything" meaning "nothing" and I am not about to correct her, it won't be "anything" for long!

Hold on Lola...here comes a Birthday Hug!Ella you are sunshine! Happy 3rd Birthday!

I am so EXCITED to...

2011-01-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

Ella started DANCE! She was so excited, I can't even describe the excitement. She looked so cute in her little outfit. Yesterday was her 2nd day and on the way she said "I am so excited to meet new friends and dance!" She watched very close and tried to do it as well as she could. When we got home she wanted to practice, even the part where she sits on the tape and waits. Can't wait for the performance! (FYI I don't know how to rotate the video!)

My first Christmas!

2010-12-30T13:29:00.000-08:00

My Mom had a great idea to reenact the Nativity scene on Christmas Eve . It was fun, and helped Ella to really understand it all. Ella was Mary, Dillon was Joseph and Lola was Baby Jesus along with other cousins and family cast members!

This year was special for me, to have a new little baby. I really felt the spirit, especially when we went to church and sang Away in a manager. I felt a small glimpse of how Mary felt to take on that lovely burden and gift of raising God's child. What a blessing and responsibility we have to teach them to be loving, caring, accountable people.

Lola Faith

2010-12-14T20:57:00.000-08:00

Lola Faith Christen is here! She arrived November 29th, 7 lbs 13 oz.

I feel weird saying she "arrived" it should be we "forced" out! I scheduled an induction. Kevin had a week and a half off of work and I couldn't let that

free time pass us by without being productive and having a baby! I had a hard time with it, knowing that I was selecting her Birthday.

I was so scared to be induced, especially since I was having her without medication. I kept telling myself I was creating my fear and it would all go well. And it did. They started me at 1:00 and I had her at 4:45. What a miracle babies are. I feel so blessed she picked me to be her Mom.

We love her and her sister is over the moon!

You can come out now...

2010-11-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

I said I want to be able to eat Thanksgiving dinner and be there with Ella, not in the Hospital. Although it was very hard to fit a lot of food in this squished belly, but that didn't stop me.

Auntie Britt was so sweet and brought Ella turkey cupcakes she could decorate and she loved it!

Lola you have a nice cozy bassinet waiting for you...tempting??

All of our Christmas is up and has been for a month, just in case! And it was a good excuse, I would have put it up first of November pregnant or not...I just love it!

OK Lola we are serious, you can come out now! We are all so excited to see you and like Auntie Tiffi said- can't wait to give you a bath!

All alone for OCTOBER...

2010-11-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Kevin was out of town for 18 days of October! He was in Canada for the World Cup Speed Skating Championships. He just got home today and boy were we both happy to see him. I think everyone is glad he is home, family and friends all helped to make my life a little easier while he was gone. It made me grateful every day to live by so many people who love and care for us, what a blessing. Now he is home for a while, not to miss the birth of his 2nd daughter!

Ella and I stayed busy. One night we left a Neighborhood Halloween party and she was being a little naughty and I was tired from the long day (and from carrying her up the muddy hill from the party...more like Mountain!) I told her she needed to be nice and be better,

she said "OK Mommy, you sad because you miss Daddy? I said well yes, now that you mention it. She said me too."

Follow me...

The Library did a special Halloween story time. Yes I do frequent the Library, FREE activity!

Spooky kids!

Another FREE activity at Sunflower Market they did a kids cooking class. We took Ella's cousin Cale and they made "Mummy Pizzas". Ella LOVED it! I asked her after she ate it what were the eyes and she said Blueberries...um try olives, I am surprised she didn't spit them out!

Went to Gardner Village to get a couple things and we had to go to the candy store, like every time we go (that is often). This time she went and stood by everything and smiled wanting me to take her picture, good thing I had my camera.

Rode the horse CJ and she yelled "Giddy Up CJ" the entire time.

Lastly made some Halloween Sugar Cookies!

Oh we did go trick or treating...those pictures to come soon!

Surprise...

2010-09-28T14:47:00.001-07:00

Kevin surprised me by taking the day off on my day off for our anniversary! It was the best surprise! He took me up to Sundance for the day. We got a massage (wonderful!) Then took the ski lift to the top of mountain and hiked to Stuart Falls. The leaves were changing and the weather so so nice. I did fall once, I am a little off balance. We topped it off with a delicious lunch at The Foundry. Now that is what I call the Perfect day!

My husband knows me all to well, love him!

Peak inside...

2010-08-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Ella's room is done! She has been sleeping in her big girl bed for 2 months now. A couple of nights she said I want to go back to my crib...it was sad. Now she loves her room and always looks so cozy in it. It took awhile, the first couple weeks her feet were on her pillow.

She was more than willing to turn her room over to the baby!

Zucchini...so many options!

2010-08-18T14:23:00.000-07:00

ZUCCHINI

Our church has a Garden, and it is wonderful! Kevin also started a Garden this year, in standing box's. He has been so diligent at keeping watered daily. We had one little zucchini from it (we anticipate some tomatoes!) Last night we went and picked Zucchini, spaghetti squash, TOMATOES and my favorite little WHITE pumpkins!!

I made these delicious Zucchini Chocolate muffins this morning and plan on making one of my favorite soups! Thought I would share. You may just find yourself with a handful of Zucchinis, and hate to let them go to waste....pass them onto me if you do! Don't waste any of this wonderful season of veggies!

Chocolate Zucchini Muffins

Ingredients

3 eggs
2 cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil (I used apple sauce)
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated zucchini
3 cups all-purpose flour (I used wheat flour)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (didn't use this...don't know what it is??)

Top with equal parts brown sugar, pecans and chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease or line two 12 cup muffin tins with paper liners.
In a large bowl beat the eggs. Beat in the sugar and oil. Add the cocoa, vanilla, zucchini and stir well.
Stir in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and cardamom. Mix until just moist.
Pour batter into prepared muffin tins filling 2/3 of the way full. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack. Store loosely covered.

Zucchini Soup

1 cup chopped onions

2 tablespoons butter

3 cups zucchini

2 cups chicken broth

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/2 cup half-and-half cream

1 cup grated cheddar cheese (I omit this ingredient)

Sour cream for garnish

4 slices of bacon, cooked then crumbled

In a large sauce pan cook onions in melted butter until tender. Add sliced zucchini and chicken broth and bring to a boil. Simmer until tender (about 15 min). Add salt and pepper. Cool slightly. Pour mixture into a blender and puree it. Stir in half-and-half cream. Return to sauce pan and reheat, but do not boil. Garnish with cheese, sour cream and bacon bits.

ENJOY!

San Diego Vacation!

2010-08-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

Now this was a FAMILY vacation we took Ella and my Mom! So that turtle action was the most we saw...so we stood there and watched for a bit!

We went to the San Diego Zoo. It was huge! And we swear we walked 5 miles that day. Ella loved seeing the baby PANDA and the monkeys

(makes sense she is WILD!)

Coronada Island was so amazing! I would LOVE to live there, the houses were all so unique and charming. The weather was a perfect 75...

unless you want to swim in the ocean!

Didn't stop Ella and Kevin from running in it, then away from it!

Little CUTIE!

Um...what are you "building"?

DISNEY LAND!

Ellas Favorites:

Dumbo Ride (the purple one).

Getting picture with Snow White.

Huging Jessie and Woody.

A sucker on the hour...every hour.

Riding Tea Cups with Grandma.

Did not like:

Pirate Ride "it's scary"

Pinocchio ride

Best Vacation and Company! And ate BEST Pad Thai in San Diego Gas Lamp District...we had to get that in!

Ella's new room

2010-06-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

Ella wanted her room pink, just like she likes her suckers and Popsicles!
Getting it done with Dad...put her to work!

Kevin said that my quilt project looked like a nightmare of a project. I have it all layed out, now I need to sew and after his statement I hope it isn't a nightmare...We will see soon if you get a post of the finished project this week!

And the room is finished painting, needs some finish work done. More pictures to come...soon I hope! I am dying to accessorize!

Hey get back here!

2010-05-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

Lookin good Ella!

I gave Ella her clothes and told her to get dressed when she was done playing. This is what she came up with! Well... I have to say not even close, but excellent effort!

LOVE this age she is so imaginative!

Well here you go...

2010-05-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

My Aunt and sister both requested a post, they must be bored! HA, I know it is to see Ella.

So here is a little of what we did in APRIL!

Easter Egg hunt in the snow at night with flashlights. Then a 2nd one in the mud the next day. Ella was an awesome Egg hunter...the ones that were in the mud or snow she would say "mommy get it"!
Made two of these deformed looking chicks and about 30 cupcakes. They did taste a lot better then they looked, I swear!

*************
After Easter went to Highpoint Market for work. Cried when I left Ella.
But it was a productive busy market, so kept myself very busy.
HOT TRENDS: Butterflys, light wood with a white wash, script fabric and birds are still in (good thing, I would have a lot to let loose!)

Off to Vegas for a FUN girls weekend! Saw Phantom for a really awesome price...student discount! The poor lady ringing us up either thought we were poor and couldn't afford it since she told us a place to eat and said that we could share a meal! OR we wouldn't let it drop (I think it was both). Hey it made the show all that more enjoyable knowing we had $110 seats for $34!

My friends are the best they humored me letting me lead them on a hike at Red Rocks! It was one of our favorite things we did!

Ate a lot great meals. This was my favorite one Linds and I shared a POT PIE! I was on cloud nine...it was so good. Then we shared carrot cake one of my favorite desserts!

We also swam, soaked up an ounce of sun we could get and shopped!

What more could you want??

Then I cleared out this room...because I am PREGNANT!! And I have to have this room ready to decorate by the time I found out what I am having!

I am due December 5th...we are so excited!

And there you have it.

Mainly I have just been reading THE HUNGER GAMES (awesome series... thank you Brittany) rather then blogging!

It does WHAT and WHAT??

2010-03-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

Lately I feel like if I work at at 5:00 AM I should be a size ZERO! Well that is not going to happen, and for some reason I keep it in my head that it will. I am the kind of person that I HAVE to workout to feel like did something worthy that day. It makes me feel at peace with myself BUT I hate that I feel like I need to loose 5 or 10 more pounds to feel better. After I read this little article in Experience Magazine I thought YES...now that is why I torture myself at 5 AM everyday. These are some OF MY FAVORITE reasons...

“Every cell in the human body benefits from physical activity,” says Tim Church, MD. He says, you feel tangible rewards right away. “Within an hour of exercising, you feel less anxious; that night you sleep better; and for 72 hours afterward your body processes blood sugar more efficiently.”

Working up a good sweat is the equivalent of getting a mini-facial, she says. “When the pores dilate, sweat expels trapped dirt and oil. Just be sure to wash your face afterward so the gunk doesn’t get sucked back into the pores.”

A recent British study found that people who began a regular exercise program at their local gym felt better about their self-worth, their physical condition and their overall health compared with their peers who stayed home. The best part was that their self-worth crept up right away — even before they saw a significant change in their bodies.

“Exercise is like taking a tranquilizer, but better because you get the side effect of improved health and fitness.” Studies out of Raglin’s lab suggest that as little as 15 minutes of exercise bestows a calm that can last for hours. As for what kind of exercise elicits the biggest response, he recommends either heart-thumping aerobic exercise, like running, cycling or swimming, or a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic exercise, such as weight training.

That increased blood flow is what revs up the immune system, he says. His research shows that just 45 minutes of walking each day can cut the number of days of work you miss because of illness by up to 50 percent.

“What’s good for your heart is good for your sex life,” WELL, YOU WILL HAVE TO GO TO THIS LINK TO READ MORE ABOUT THAT! http://www.experiencelifemag.com/issues/april-2010/fit-body/8-ways-exercise-makes-you-gorgeous.html

SO WHO IS COMING TO "IN THE GYM" CLASS TOMORROW AT 5:45 AM?

HELP!

2010-03-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

I need to find a new dentist! We are now under Kevin's insurance and Dr. Glassett does not take or insurance, I am sad because he was so great!
Now I have this list of Dentists who take my insurance, and I am LOST! How do you know if they are good? Or if they have a nice office?
Location is important but I would travel a little further for a great referral.
Please look at this list and see if your dentist is on it or if you have heard of a great one.
Or tell me the best way to narrow it down!

Richard G Parker DDS (801) 302-8897
112 E 12450 S Ste A-102
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Cory M Stark DDS (801) 571-6751
112 E 12450 S Ste 100
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Shazmeena Bangash DDS (801) 571-6751
112 E 12450 S Ste 100
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Ryan Moffat DDS (801) 495-1610
114 E 12450 S Ste 200
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Kelly A Faddis DDS (801) 571-6688
11760 S 700 E Ste 110
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Chad K Molen DDS (801) 495-3636
12226 S 1000 E Ste 7
Draper, UT 84020
Specialty: General Practice

Richard Steele DDS (801) 256-3700
10011 Centennial Pkwy Ste 330
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

Robert Chidester DDS (801) 256-3700
10011 Centennial Pkwy Ste 330
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice
Draper, UT 84020

Andrew Vernon DDS (801) 256-3700
10011 Centennial Pkwy Ste 330
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

Kenneth R Dibble DDS (801) 572-4430
9853 S 700 E
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

Kent M Seal DDS (801) 572-4430
9853 S 700 E
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

David L Alvord DDS (801) 254-7003
1685 West 10600 South Ste A2
South Jordan, UT 84095
Specialty: General Practice

Charles B Jackson DDS (801) 571-1231
669 Union Sq
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

Cory M Stark DDS (801) 571-6751
9720 S 1300 E Ste W220
Sandy, UT 84094
Specialty: General Practice

David E Jackson DDS (801) 571-8391
870 E 9400 S Ste 110
Sandy, UT 84094
Specialty: General Practice

Elden W Peterson DDS (801) 566-4153
9269 Redwood Rd
West Jordan, UT 84088
Specialty: General Practice

Ronald G Ashton DDS (801) 566-0971
9233 Redwood Rd
West Jordan, UT 84088
Specialty: General Practice

Mark S Arroyo DDS (801) 567-9200
1847 W 9000 S Ste 202
West Jordan, UT 84088
Specialty: General Practice

James L Johnson DDS (801) 566-8379
8813 Redwood Rd Ste C
West Jordan, UT 84088
Specialty: General Practice

Robert W Owens DDS (801) 446-6621
8045 S 700 E Ste 5
Sandy, UT 84070
Specialty: General Practice

Gerardo F Maymi DDS (801) 253-7553
3672 W South Jordan Pkwy Ste 203
South Jordan, UT 84095
Specialty: General Practice

Brian J Lord DDS (801) 253-2249
3785 W 10400 S Ste 103
South Jordan, UT 84095
Specialty: General Practice

Glenn Taylor DDS (801) 565-9411
7681 S 700 E
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Michelle Taylor DDS (801) 565-9411
7681 S 700 E
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Jaimee A Morgan DDS (801) 561-9999
204 Fort Union Blvd Ste 102
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Stanley K Presley DDS (801) 561-9999
204 Fort Union Blvd Ste 102
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Brian J Abrams DDS (801) 562-2147
942 E North Union Ave Ste A108
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Larry D Lofthouse DDS (801) 566-7721
2400 W 7800 S Ste 201
West Jordan, UT 84088
Specialty: General Practice

Ronald J Blackhurst DDS (801) 561-5212
7001 S 900 E Ste 450
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Gerald R Berg DMD (801) 561-0061
7001 S 900 E Ste 450
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Brad A Wahlstrom DDS (801) 566-3003
7089 Redwood Rd
West Jordan, UT 84084
Specialty: General Practice

William M Sergakis DDS (801) 467-6018
7240 Highland Dr Ste 102
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Specialty: General Practice

Gregory D Perkins DDS (801) 255-4870
1275 Fort Union Blvd Ste 215
Midvale, UT 84047
Specialty: General Practice

Cory M Stark DDS (801) 542-7009
1577 W 7000 S Ste 200
West Jordan, UT 84084
Specialty: General Practice

Shazmeena Bangash DDS (801) 542-7009
1577 W 7000 S Ste 200
West Jordan, UT 84084
Specialty: General Practice

Sean P Lucas DDS (801) 453-0244
7186 S Highland Dr Ste 100
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Specialty: General Practice

Stephen B Liddle DDS (801) 943-2222
7069 Highland Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Specialty: General Practice

Drew L Jones DDS (801) 942-6464
7050 Highland Dr Ste 240
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Specialty: General Practice

Blaine S Bateman DDS (801) 756-9310
2961 W Maple Loop Dr Ste 110
Lehi, UT 84043
Specialty: General Practice

Michael L van Leeuwen DDS (801) 943-1612
6936 Promenade Dr Ste 201
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Specialty: General Practice

Ryan T Johansen DDS (801) 280-9595
7613 Jordan Landing Blvd Ste 210
West Jordan, UT 84084
Specialty: General Practice

Andrew V Erickson DDS (801) 280-7001
7611 Jordan Landing Blvd Ste 201
West Jordan, UT 84084
Specialty: General Practice

Sheffield Lloyd DDS (801) 766-4444
3300 Running Creek Way
Lehi, UT 84043
Specialty: General Practice

Grant T Stucki DDS (801) 756-3570
20 W Main Street Ct
Alpine, UT 84004
Specialty: General Practice

Grant T Stucki DDS (801) 756-3570
20 W Main Street Ct Ste 100
Alpine, UT 84004
Specialty: General Practice

William Sundberg DDS (801) 263-6400
5419 S Redwood Rd Ste 2
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Richard Steele DDS (801) 263-6400
5419 S Redwood Rd Ste 2
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Ryan Dastrup DDS (801) 263-6400
5419 S Redwood Rd Ste 2
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Robert H Johnson DDS (801) 263-6400
5419 S Redwood Rd Ste 2
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Robert Chidester DDS (801) 263-6400
5419 S Redwood Rd Ste 2
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Scott P Daynes DDS (801) 268-2323
463 Murray Blvd
Murray, UT 84123
Specialty: General Practice

Adam P McLachlan DDS (801) 263-1632
154 Myrtle Ave Ste 203
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
Specialty: General Practice

David J McGowan DDS (801) 263-1632
154 Myrtle Ave Ste 203
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
Specialty: General Practice

John B Kochevar DDS (801) 268-9722
4970 S 900 E Ste E
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Specialty: General Practice

Jeffrey B Kochevar DDS (801) 268-9722
4970 S 900 E Ste E
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Specialty: General Practice

Kent S Lewis DDS (801) 262-9444
4970 S 900 E Ste G
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Specialty: General Practice

Edwin R Tucker DDS (801) 756-2400
10925 N Alpine Hwy
Highland, UT 84003
Specialty: General Practice

Nathan C Lewis DDS (801) 969-1800
1951 W 4700 S Ste 5
Taylorsville, UT 84118
Specialty: General Practice

Bruce J O'Donoghue DDS (801) 969-1800
1951 W 4700 S Ste 5
Taylorsville, UT 84118
Specialty: General Practice

John Dean DDS (801) 969-1800
1951 W 4700 S Ste 5
Taylorsville, UT 84118
Specialty: General Practice

Gregory L Muse DDS (801) 272-4111
4460 Highland Dr Ste 400
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Specialty: General Practice

Wook!

2010-03-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

After Ella finished her snack in the car we hear her say one of my favorite words..."WOOK" we turn around and see baby has a bag on her head! "Funny baby" Ella said!

Um a little scary, I think this is my que to teach her not to ever put a bag over her own head...or a live baby for that matter!

Happy Valentines!

2010-02-13T22:52:00.000-08:00

Love

A- Accessories, I bring home a new accessory at least once a week, it is a hobby/obsession. This week...turquoise iron for above my TV, and the cutest iron cloche already a best seller!

B- Baking cookies. I LOVE the smell and feeling fresh baked cookies creates in your home, it feels so welcoming.

C- Cycle class and Lance Armstrong I wish those two were one in the same!

D- DVR- Biggest Loser, 24 and now the OLYMPICS

E- Ella Grace what more can I say LOVE means so much more when I talk about her.

F- Family- what would we seriously do without them? So reliable and loving!

G- Games, BOYS against GIRLS the competitiveness runs wild!

H- Husband- "Super Strong" and super wonderful

I- Inventing songs to sing to Ella when I say "what song do you want me to sing" and she simply says someones name "Grammie or Kami" so I get to make something up...it sounds real good

J- Jesus and ability to pray to him and have something to base my life and decisions on

K-Kindle, my V day gift from Kevi! Books at my finger tips!

L- Lifetime gym classes 5:30 AM...LOVE getting it done!

M- Mountains, I miss the mountains when I travel and I miss hiking them during the winter

N- New recipes that Kevin my personal chef makes and always LOVE his omelets

O- Oats, Steel cut oats to be exact! Monday, Thursday and Friday ready in the crock pot in the morning for those rush out the door days. Yum!

P- Play dates, I consider them a time for me to play just as much for Ella

Q- Quiet time when Ella is napping and I can run around getting things done or just read

R- Reading to Ella, I LOVE when she can fill in the words

S- Sisters, oh I LOVE my sisters and am thankful to my mom for not making me an only child. I need my sisters.

T- Thai food! Stacy and I made Pad Thai all on our own and fresh spring rolls and our husbands were impressed, the kids not so much!

U- Unique locally owned shops. I am inspired by entrepreneurs.

V- Valentines and conversation hearts

W- Work: rewarding, challenging and all the inspiring people I get to surround myself with.

XYZ

Your own Thai Chef!

2010-02-04T19:13:00.000-08:00

As an incentive for the amazing Designers at The Black Goose I had my neighbor teach us Thai Cooking Lessons! It was a lot of fun to learn how to cook something new! Ever since I have been obsessed with Pad Thai, we tried Simply Thai by my house and it was OK nothing compared to our cooking class. Then Kevin wanted Noodles and Company and I am not a big pasta eater at all my extent is wheat spaghetti, so I saw they had Pad Thai...why not try it everywhere?? and let's just say it was NOT good at all. But my favorite thing "The Thai Chef To Go" taught us was the Sweet Coconut Rice, I had dreams about that every day after! So I finally found a special basket and pot to cook the sticky rice in and made myself and Kev some. It turned out great for my first time! I had to soak the sweet rice for 8 hours then you steam it in your fancy basket(the rice tastes better when it isn't cooked in metal) then combine it with the coconut milk and mango's...YUM!

Proud Mommies of Fresh Spring Rolls!

Les and Stacy used to the photo shoot- Paul is thinking can we just cook??

Jen attempting and succeeding at tossing the Pad Thai!

More Pad Thai!

My attempt at Sweet Coconut Rice all on my own!

Love my sticky rice cooker!

Someone had a Birthday...

2010-01-30T14:19:00.001-08:00

Ella just turned 2 on January 24th! We had a fun Madagascar party with Lion and Monkey cupcakes, game of finding the escaped penguins, and guess the animal on your back!

Ella loved it all.

The morning of her Birthday I asked her what's today? She said "PARTY...MINE!" It was so cute! Then she asked me "Excited Mommy?"

She makes me so happy and privileged to be her mom. She is very empathetic, she cares so much about her friends and family. We will be going to a friends house and I will grab her a snack and give it to her and she will say "Owens"or whoever it is we are going to see and want to take them a treat! After each gift that she opened at her party she would say in her sweet voice thank you for the gift.

Can't believe she is 2! I can still see that brand new baby the moment I first saw her and couldn't believe she was mine, I have loved getting to know that little Ella Grace.

Glad it is over?

2010-01-17T17:33:00.000-08:00

Yes, a little late for this post but couldn't help it! When I looked back at the pictures I think of all those we love and got to be with on that special holiday! Ella makes it all the more wonderful. Isn't it funny when you look back and all the little things we worry about and rush to the store to get you can't remember what that was that was so important, all we remember is family and friends and the fun we had!

Started Christmas Eve at Grammie Heaps, with Crab cakes, Clam chowder and a Dora Doll with Super Babies!
Hello cute group!
B and B down by the tree! Ready for the gift game!

Early Christmas morning my parents rang the door at 7:00 excited to see Ella on Christmas morning. Kevin helped Ella make me an apron and she got one too with her new kitchen!

Ella wanted to play with everything at once and WEAR everything at once!

Headphones and music for the kids! Britt the hair dresser got Ella the blow dryer and brush set.

Sisters! Breakfast at my parents my Dad serves his famous breakfast casserole, he has made it since I was a little girl and I look forward to it!

Where is YOUR headband Kevin? Everyone has one...literally!

Dinner and Games at Kevin's family. A present game since the kids needed more gifts that day!

Ella and Chloe with their new doll houses from Grammie Larsen!

The Painting...

2009-12-20T09:29:00.000-08:00

WALLA! The bottom one is the painting Leslie had Mike paint me for Christmas. Isn't it perfect?
I moved some things around and put it by my stairs so I can see it every day. It is a painting of North Fork Trail to Ben Lomond in Liberty Utah. I love it.
Thank you Leslie and Mike Warren, something I will always have to remind me of you!

Goose Girls PARTY!

2009-12-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

It was our annual Black Goose Party and the kids were so happy to be invited! We drew names on Halloween, we have to get started early if there is going to be any crafting involved!

Stacy was our wonderful host, two years in a row, she does such a fantastic job from name cards with flower pins to having every inch of her house decked out!

Brayden and Ella giving loves...not coerced at all for the picture!

I had Jen's name and I think everyone needs a shutter filled with goodies, and this one said Jen all over it! (Brayden and Ella just waiting to get their hands on it)

Oh and they did, cleared it right out!

Stacy unwrapping her gift from Kelly...what is it??

And there is the master piece! Kelly hand stitched all of it, making sure to go around every little flower. Now that is a pillow to DIE FOR!

Group shot. Now look very close at that STUNNING painting I got this year! Mike, Leslie's husband is an artist and she commissioned him to paint me a picture. It truly brought tears to my eyes. It fits my house perfect "Blue and white make me happy but touches of red keep popping up too!' (See other post of it in my house)

Of coarse we did a little craft. Kelly was our teacher and you would have thought none of us have done a project on our own...Kelly had to help draw the noes for some of us, not saying who!

Symphony bars disguised as snowman, how cute it that?

Denise and Emma gave Brayden and Ella these cute sleeping bags in a back packs. They LOVED them, I don't know if anything I give her will top it!

Being silly, party over...ready for bed! I should have let Ella sleepover!

Angle

2009-12-13T17:17:00.000-08:00

After Ella's nap today I went to get her out of her crib and she had this blanket over her head and said "Angle" Ella a Angle! It was so funny! We went and saw Chloe in her church program and she was an angle...Ella was inspired! And I had to take picture.

A little late but still thankful...

2009-11-30T19:52:00.000-08:00

We hosted Thanksgiving for 20 hungry people! I made homemade rolls (thanks Rach for the tip), made cute napkins (thanks Ang for that tip and Mom and Kami for the labor),

I feel like I was so busy getting ready for it and balancing the rest I didn't take time to think of all that I am thankful for, so here is some of the things in no order...

My well rounded husband who I can send to pick out a cute outfit for Ella for pictures then have him do something manly...whatever that may be!

Ella Grace my sweet loving, "charming" daughter! I forgot my wallet at Target after I had my cart halfway loaded, I realized my spaciness and said "dang it, mommy forgot her money!" She said "It's OK...cry" and she kept saying "dang it...money!" So sweet she is so empathetic!

All my family and there never ending support, they are my friends.

My wonderful creative job and all that it has provided for us.

Friends...love Friends and how happy and excited they make me to do every day things with!

That I have the ability to wake up and work out every day with no physical limits...such a blessing and reward.

The gospel in my life. Just learning how important it is to raising a family with guidance and direction from the Savior.

Happy Thanksgiving and my Christmas has been up since mid November! We are ready!

It was a Zoo...

2009-11-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

What a fun Halloween!

Ella was a Giraffe, I was her Zoo Keeper and Kevin was the Animal Recruiter!

So fun to have Corey and his family here this year and to have Kami and Blaine with us too!

Britt always does such a nice job of hosting every year as we stomp around her neighborhood hoping people will take on our large group of 15!

Mine!

2009-10-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

How do you teach a 19 month old to share and to not say...MINE! At church she yelled MINE at a boy sitting next to us. Then we went to a friends house and she yelled MINE over and over again over a cookie, vacuum, a little pumpkin toy, a hat I could go on!

She really is very sweet and knows very well that she is being naughty. Last night my parents were over and I asked Ella what she did that we naughty and she said "no, no, share...cookie."
Kevin told the nursery leader at church sorry and asked her what she we should do and she said have another baby!

Don't know about that advise...Anyone got anything else??

(This is also an apology/ warning if you play with Ella and I, she might say MINE)

The 1st time I...

2009-10-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

Danced on a stage with a WITCH at WEE witches weekend at Gardner Village!
Went on a tour of a Witches house at Wee witches with cute Kas!

Rode on a Pony and LOVED it!

Bottled Tomatoes...

I found out someone has a huge field of tomatoes that they were letting people harvest. So I took my mom with me and we filled several baskets full and would have kept going but it got dark. I got inspired by my friend Denise who bottles tomatoes every year, her mom did 48 and I bottled 24...maybe next year when I am not a newbie I will go for the 48 :)! It was actually pretty fun and VERY rewarding knowing that I am growing my food storage!

(Saved the best for last) Went potty on the toilet!

Ella went potty in her little toilet the 1st time on Wednesday! She has been so interested in the toilet and she always announces when she has went "poop" or "pee" and wants me to change her promptly. I read in this book, not to potty train until they are 2...and if they can do these things. One of them was can she follow three commands. I asked her if she would go into her playroom and find her baby then bring it to me. She said "No" then I asked her again and she said "OK". So she left and ended up playing in there for about 5 to 10 min. then she came walking back to me and said "Got it!" and sure enough she had two babies! She has went pee a couple of times about only once a day. But it is fun to see her starting to get it and love learning new things!

I teared up when I heard that little tickle in the toilet...she is growing up!

WEDDING of the Century and POST of the century!

2009-09-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

\ Kami, my sister in-law just got married. I know that Blaine will be a carring husband, he is always the first to ask me how is your work going?? Kami will be a fun, thoughtful wife because she is always willing to play...go hiking, fishing and help get the yard done for her wedding!

So happy for you two! We love you!

A big group of geese flew overhead, it was so pretty!

Ella everywhere but up front with the rest of the line

Ella decided to take a squat and get every single petal out of her basket right there. I didn't know what she was doing so I ran up to her and she would not move until she did her job, as soon as the basket was empty she took off and walked to the front!

"Oh no" Ella said as Chloe started to drop her petals

Chloe being so good, as Ella tried finish the goal of getting ALL of the flowers out of her basket!

Center piece, 1 of 20.

Suckers were a hit, especially with Ella who thought they should be her dinner (and were)

Yummy dinner, Ruby River catered and Kneaders did the desserts

Lemonade, Root beer and Orange Slush for your drinking pleasures...
always fun out of a glass bottle!

Hard working Mother of the Bride gets a smooch xoxoxo

Of coarse there were favors, Carmel Apples

Cute Chloe and Cael

Kami made her entrance down the stairs...so GRAND!

Hello orange chair, and pumpkin...Welcome to the wedding!

Can we cut this cake?? And get on with OUR night!

Papa and Ella getting their dance on... sweet!

We all wanted to be carried by the end of the night!

You have to sweat when you work and when you dance, I did BOTH!

Market, Babies and Flowers

2009-09-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

We haven't been to the Farmers Market yet, I like to go closer to fall, can't wait for the pumpkins! We went on Saturday to get our favorites! We shared a Buckwheat pancake covered with berries, nuts, bananas and peanut butter! Bought peaches, kettle corn, honey, green peppers, onions, corn and my favorite treat a Mazurka bar from Great Harvest it is a bar covered in berries so good (they only sell them at the market and the Great Harvest on 9th and 9th). Then on our way out we wanted to support our cute neighbors who have a Thai booth so we bought some Pad Thai and some Thai Buffalo wings for Kev, very good but a lot to eat before 9:30!

-LOVE FALL-

I love the smell and feel of fall in the early morning, especially when I walk out of the gym in the morning, it reminds me of camping! I took Ella on a walk, one of our favorite things to do. She always has to take a baby and smell the flowers!

$10,000 Shower

2009-09-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

We have a joke at work that when you do a shower or a party at your house it ends up costing you $10,000 (Kevin doesn't think it is a joke). You end up deciding that in order for you to host the event you need to buy all new furniture or in my case buy everything and the kitchen sink!

Really I was just getting my house ready for a going away party for Jessica and a Wedding shower for Kami (Kevin's sister).

I got a couple of pictures at the start of Jessica's party and a shot of the yummy food. Food is always better when everyone helps and brings some of their favorite dishes!

Jessica we will miss you, you were a "Big Deal" to us and always will be! Hot tamales will never be the same! And a party is not a party without a game! We played Jessica and Ryan picturenary and drew some of the best moments of Jessica and Ryan living in Utah from Ryan with Taylor in he Bijorn at the Uof U games to Jessica being weighed while on a hospital bed. Love you Jess!

Glad the parties are over and I can stop spending money (on that:) Sad the fun is over!

Party time and bake off!

2009-08-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Luau Time! We just had our Company picnic. We were rewarded for making our Company Goal for 3 months in a row! We had a Hawaiian Luau with a roasted pig and all! Hawaiian dancers and dancing kiddies were our entertainment for the evening. We always have a good time whenever we all get together, how could we not cute girls and cute babies!

There was also a Company wide BAKE OFF, and of coarse I was down...you say contest and I am in! And YES I did win 3rd place and $50. And YES I know it is not 1st place but I am happy to be in 3rd with such wonderful desserts that everyone made!

My Cranberry white chocolate chip cookies didn't let me down. Here is the famous Receipe...

Blend together:

2/3 cup no salt butter

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

2 TBLS honey

ADD and Mix:

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla

Stir in:

2 cups flour

1/2 cup oats

1/2 tsp of salt, baking soda and cinnamon

Stir in:

1 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans or hazelnuts

3/4 cup white chocolate chips

Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 12 min at 350 F

Happy Baking!

Jen, Kelly, Leslie, Debbie, D...where are you?

She makes everything SUNNY!

2009-08-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

I always thought it will be fun to have kids then we can take them to things that I always want to do, but would seem silly to do without kids. Like the ZOO! And she seems to make the rodeo, a trip to St. George and every other thing so much brighter!

I feel like I am more productive since having Ella, or I have to proritize (less shopping). I know that she will be waking up every morning at a certain time so I have a small window in the morning to get things done, then in the afternoon during her nap. Yet it can back fire, where I feel guilty if I don't get everything done, so I rarely sit and read, or work on a project.

I was talking to a lady in my neighborhood and she said that she sets up certain days for things: Monday maybe laundry and cleaning, Tuesday shopping, then leave one day for play day! I think I should try that!

Have any of you set up something like that?? That way my play day I can read or lay in the sun while she naps! That sounds really nice and BRIGHT!

Just what she wants...

2009-07-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

I thought a picture of Ella would be just the thing my MOM would love to see for her Birthday, she has been in Texas for work for the past 2 1/2 weeks!

I have to share this little story about her because it made me cry a little and smile!

My mom was really sad that she was going to be gone on the 4th of July, and missing the family. She woke up Saturday morning did her laundry, worked out took a nap and was trying to keep busy so she wouldn't be sad. She gets a phone call on her hotel phone and the woman said "is this SISTER Littlefield?" She said yes. The lady said "the Lord must really love you because I keep getting this prompting to call you and invite you to my family 4th of July BBQ!" She said that she had to call 4 different hotels to finally find my mom to invite her! My Mom had went to the Temple to serve a couple of times and talked shortly with this woman, so she knew that my Mom was away from her family.

Isn't that such a testament that the Lord knows our individual needs and cares about our happiness? It was such a boost to my testimony to hear that story, if we are doing the right things that the Lord wishes for us we will be blessed.

Love you Mom and Happy Birthday to you!

Back to her TRICKS...

2009-06-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

I walk away from Ella for a minute and come back to find she has a BUCKET on her head and is pushing two toys, what a TRICKSTER...she is better pushing the toys without sight!
Say CHEESE your picture is being taken crazy!

So sad...so sick!

2009-06-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

Poor Ella has been sick with the flu for over a week and a half!

This is how we knew she was under the weather...

She wanted to just "sit" and cuddle with daddy and fell asleep at 6:30 in his arms

(that never happens)

On our hike to Dog lake with Dillon and Kassidee she wasn't her happy hiker self. She fell asleep in her pack and wouldn't eat her snacks at lunch.

Last night she threw up again at midnight and she was yelling out "daddy"!

It is so sad! Hope she feels better tomorrow!

Swim, Eat...repeat!

2009-05-31T20:21:00.000-07:00

Kevin has been gone since Wednesday... that will be SIX days! He has been with the Utah Baseball team beating all odds and winning! Don't get me wrong I am all about WINNING but when it keeps him away for that long Ella and I start to miss him and I turn a little selfish.

My Mom has been an ANGEL sent from the Lord. She has stayed over almost every night so I could go to my 5 AM gym classes (she knows if I miss those I would be really mad at Kevin and she said I can't be mean to her Kevi). She has taken Ella on nightly walks while I got a few things done, she cheered me up by bringing me my favorite Kneaders salad when the Utes won again and stayed up late with me baking some yummy dishes...our favorite thing to do!

We were up late on Saturday trying to decide what to make for Sunday dinner. My friend Rachelle told me that her Grandmother is a wonderful cook and she would always do something fun and new for dinners, even if it was just a side item. She would tell everyone that they all need to try something new! I love that idea. My Mom and I did a "Chinese food night" with Spring rolls and Sweet and Sour Pork. It was fun for me to learn how to make the spring rolls and EAT them:)

Ella and I had some fun swimming this past week. Wednesday with JJ and Dillon. Then with my family, Taylor and Jess. LOVE SUMMER...bye bye white legs!

Hopefully Kevin will come home soon, yes that means they would have to lose! Call me what you like!

More cookies!

2009-04-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

I love to make cookies and everyone in my house loves to eat them!

I was very excited when I found this semi-(they are still cookies) healthy recipe.

They have flax seed, wheat germ and not too much butter!

Loaded Oatmeal Cookies

Heat oven to 350. Beat 1/4 C butter for 30 sec. Add 1/2 C Brown sugar, 1/3 C granulated sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking soda and 1/8 tsp salt beat until combined. Beat in 1 egg, 1 tsp vanilla until combined. Stir in 3/4 C wheat flour, 3/4 C rolled oats, 1/4 C flax seed meal, 1/4 C wheat germ, 2 oz dark chocolate or whatever chocolate you prefer, 1/4 C cranberries and 1/4 C walnuts or pecans. Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for about 9 min, until tops are browned. Makes about 24 to 30 cookies.

More cookies Ella says!

We did it, we did it! We did it Yea!

2009-04-19T16:12:00.000-07:00

I completed my 1st Half Marathon and I am over the moon! It was such a thrill, all the positive energy at the start of the race and right to the end! Brittany and I ran side by side up to mile 11, when the worst part of the race started, running uphill towards the capitol. I did not stop and ended up finishing it in 2 hours, Britt and Paula were right behind me. I was #1633 out of the 4125 half marathon runners. I keep thinking, how do people run for another 2 more hours for the marathon? I don't know but I do hope to do one someday!

My favorite parts...

*Yelling to the Dane and Blayne from The Biggest Loser after they came out of the bathroom (wish I had my camera, for a group pic!)

*Receiving the most thoughtful care packages and inspiring cards from my friends Stacy and Denise, they both made me cry.

* Remembering at mile 10 that my husband, baby, Dillon, Grandma, Mom and father in-law would all be there at the end to cheer me in. Even though I could not see them in the crowd until I was done, I knew they were there supporting me and Britt.

* Enjoying every bite of Multi grain waffles and a veggie omelet right after the race. My Grandma said it was our PRIZE from her, I would take that any day over a "cash prize that I would never receive." By the way there was cops, medals and the whole shebang...Salt Lake came through!

*The best part was running and training with my sister, we had a lot of fun together and she helped with my competitive edge wanting to beat her!

Brittany you are amazing and such a JOY, Love you!

What's next??

It's on WHEELS?!?

2009-04-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

Starting on Thursday I have been a little obsessed with ksl.com! Weird, I know! I have been trying to follow the wise counsel of Suzie Orman on what to do in this economy...keep our money in savings! Ahhh, it is so stressful! You want to be good "just in case something very bad happens" so you sit and vacillate over whether or not to buy a dog food for your dog...is he really a "need" or a "want" ha, just kidding! I focus too much on what is going on around me and I start to think I might have to live in a "tent city" some day!
Anyways, back to the WHEELS and KSL.

So I want to get Ella a slide for outside and a play kitchen. She is growing up so fast and Tupperware can only hold her off so long! I haven't seen a slide yet, but I did find a "Vintage" blue leather chair for only $10! It looked transitional, with a small arm and tight back. I thought what the heck $10, I need a chair for my basement and I love "vintage" and blue so the two together, PERFECT!
I called up my delivery boy (my brother Dustin) he agreed to meet me at this scary house. I gave Dust the $10 and told him I didn't want to get Ella out of the car (really I didn't want to go up to the house) I thought I better go check it out when I saw Dustin taking a tarp off this chair that had been sitting outside in the RAIN then he started WHEELING it to me! I said wait, are those wheels PART of the chair?? The "vintage" chair salesman pipes up "ya" all excited. I look at the arm and it has blue tape covering a large hole. I told him I think I am going to pass! Dustin had already given the man my money, we got it back and walked off more like ran off trying not to laugh in his face! I felt really bad, I told Dustin to go knock on the door and just give him the $10, of coarse he said no way and added that he is never going with me again to get anything, so I gave Dustin the money :)
LAME!
I vow I will ask more questions and if it looks to good to be true IT IS!
Still looking for a slide and a toy kitchen, found one on ksl in Brigham City! Um I will not be driving all the way there to see that a toy kitchen for $20 has bite marks and smells like smoke! I think I will go to my local Target tomorrow for the kitchen and my work for the leather chair!

I am too embarrassed to show a picture of the chair!!

Happy Birthday Kevi!

2009-03-06T08:02:00.000-08:00

Kevin has been out of town for baseball for the past three long weekends. This week he left on Wednesday. We miss him when he is gone...it would be so hard being a single Mom working full time! It has made me appreciate all that he does when he is home with us. My family has been extra helpful, always calling and making sure we have dinner, see if I need a babysitter, someone to stay overnight so I am not alone or to see if we need someone to visit and help me do Ella's bath.

Today is Kevins Birthday and we will have to wait to celebrate unitl he gets back. But here is a picture of Ella for you Kevin on your Birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEVI!

Color can and will influence your moods!

2009-02-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

My basement is pretty much complete! I used a lot of fun colors on the walls; orange, green, red, blue and tan. Kevin was the painter, he couldn't wait to do some hands on work rather than writing checks to people. (Thanks to all my family who came over late nights to donate free painting services, and to Corey who offered his expertise in so many areas!)
It doesn't feel like a dark basement, it is bright and cheery!

Here are some color tips...
For all of you GREEN lovers...Soft GREEN has healing benefits, it can actually speed the recovery of someone who is ill. It is used in hospitals to relax patients. It is a great color to use in your family room or living space to allow your family and friends to feel relaxed, calm, safe and friendly.

The color RED increases hunger and can heighten your sense of smell. If you are watching your weight or if you want to reduce your hunger pains paint your kitchen PURPLE!

Using the color BLUE in your craft room or a child’s bedroom will spark creativity and calm yourself down to start a project. It will also influence introspection and perseverance.

For all of you with new babies or kids...Take this into consideration when painting a babies bedroom YELLOW; yellow rooms cause babies to cry more often, it can also cause allergies to flare up! Being exposed to bright yellow for long periods at a time can irritate people and make them easily provoked. (Makes you want to use yellow, doesn't it?) Use a paler shade of yellow to evoke freshness and cleanliness.

For more color tips sign up for our free ENEWS letter at The Black Goose Design I talk more about color in our March issue

Look no hands!

2009-02-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

We went to a wedding the other night (missed book club and the heart pizza's) BUT Ella found the cutest little friend in a wheel chair! Of coarse she didn't doubt her abilities, if she can push her baby in the stroller, why not a boy in a wheel chair! He was so cute he kept raising his arms saying "look no hands"! Of coarse she cried and cried when we took her away.

Knock, knock...

2009-02-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

I am obsessed with old doors and old windows. I know I am not alone on this...Stacy is my partner (or alibi) to GEORGES salvage shop. Now don't everyone rush to Georges, it is VERY unique and it is always better to take someone with you, or if you are Jen you venture all by yourself to his back shed with no witness!
We are finishing our basement, so I thought what a perfect time to move some of my existing doors downstairs and get some vintage ones for upstairs (luckily Kevin was all on board and did a great job installing it). This one got a new coat of No Way, from Kwal paint and you are probably saying "no way, what a shock she painted something blue!" I was talking to someone the other day about how blue on walls or around you makes you more creative, and I NEED to create...more blue please!
I will post soon my new red door once the basement is done, carpet coming Tuesday!

Deceptively Delicious

2009-01-31T07:01:00.000-08:00

I was talking to some friends the other day about getting their kids to eat veggies. I really think it helps to make your own baby food, they get used the consistency, texture and taste of veggies and meat. I loved the book Top 100 Baby Purees.
Now that I don't need to make baby food for Ella, she eats what we eat. She does like Mac & Cheese, I buy Organic Annie's. I use my rice cooker to steam a baby of carrots then I puree them and add about a 1/2 Cup of pureed carrots to her Mac & Cheese, and add a little extra milk to get the right consistency. She loves it! And now she is used to that flavor and texture!
Kevin and I cook a lot of our meals from Deceptively Delicious, by Jessica Seinfeld. She does those same tricks in all of her recipes. Our favorite one and Ella's is her tacos. You should try it, it will be one of your favorites too!

1 lb. ground beef or turkey
1 14-oz. can crushed tomatoes, with their juice
1/2 cup sweet potato or carrot or butternut squash puree
1/2 packet taco seasoning
1 pkg. taco shells (we use soft shell wheat)
I add a can of black or pinto beans
I add a can of corn to the mixture instead of using as a topping
I also add a 1/2 Cup of pureed spinach (you can't taste it at all, it looks pretty to have the green)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (I don't add the cheese, we just sprinkle on top)

Toppings
1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/2 cup corn
3 large leaves lettuce, thinly sliced crosswise
1/2 small avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced
1 small red pepper, finely sliced

Cook meat in large nonstick skillet. Stir in the tomatoes and their juice, vegetable puree, and seasoning mix. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the meat is no longer pink and the mixture begins to thicken, 10-15 min. Preheat the oven to 325. Fill the taco shells with the meat mixture and sprinkle with cheese. Stand the shells in a baking dish and bake until the cheese melts, 5-10 minutes. Add your favorite toppings.

Happy Birthday to Ella!

2009-01-25T19:45:00.000-08:00

I can not believe I have a 1 year old! I have had inventory for the past two days, it has kept me away from my Ella. It seems like she grew so much! I think this has been my favorite time to watch her grow, so fun to see her learn and start to play with toys on her own.
Her Birthday was Saturday January 24Th. I made french toast with blueberries, All fruit and bananas, I topped it off with a candle and she was in heaven!
We had her Birthday Party on Sunday, she was spoiled! She got to eat her very own cake, she didn't put her face in it or really go crazy. She was more interested in sharing with her cousins!
Kevin made the best Philly steak sandwich's, he really out did himself!
My mom made this yummy Sunflower cupcakes for her party, they were so cute!!! Each one had a little lady bug and an Oreo center. We got the idea from Brittany's cupcake book, one tip it said was to always add another egg to your cupcakes so instead of 3 do 4 and instead of the cup of water, do a cup of buttermilk! The turned out great! Thank you mom!
Happy Birthday Ella Gracie, we love you! So much better with you here!

A few tricks up her sleeve!

2009-01-22T20:26:00.003-08:00

I am trying to get her to say "cracker" on this video and she does say it (when I am not videoing her or people are around wanting her to say it) she says "crack" instead. She can also walk a few steps when she wants! And yes she did fall at the end but that is a normal thing around our house, no worries!

Favorite Highlights from my Birthday!

2009-01-13T19:15:00.000-08:00

Yes I am a year older, I am waiting for the wiser part to come!
Kevi brought me this bright, cheery plant into my work with a cheery and bright Ella (Denise gave me that cute chalk board sign), isn't it so cute!! He also invited my family to come over and have some soup and to play a couple of rounds of my favorite game CATCH PRAISE! Then most of us (Kev stayed back and watched over Ella while she slept) went to Bride Wars, it was funny and a very cute show! Kev got me a new camera...YEA! And my Grandma noticed on Thanksgiving I could use a new set of knives. Britt always knows what I want from her, to get my HAIR done! Mom bought us girls tickets to Hello Dolly, can't wait and Mandi and my parents gave me money towards a new phone (they all think I need it :) Leslie gave me her famous lavender water to spray my linens. I got a "Good Mother Fairy" from Angie. The perfect fit pants and money from Kevin's Mom. And a very special "healthy" lunch from the girls at work! I also ate one to many cobblers this past weekend, Hey it was my Birthday!

CHOOSE who you give your money to!

2009-01-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

I think sometimes we forget that we can choose where we spend our money. I have made the mistake of giving my money to stores or companies that I have been less than happy with there customer service, just because I found something I thought I couldn't live without!

I was looking for a new cocktail table (now that Ella has started to try to walk a tray table wasn't very conducive for support). I found a great one at my favorite consignment store in SLC, Emilie Janes on 8th and 8th. In the process of shopping for it, the owner was so nice, she always remembers my name and Ella's, she goes on about how cute Ella is. Before I found it I was thinking I should go and check another shop to make sure that I found the best thing. I decided that I wouldn't waste my time and more importanly I needed to support her store, especially "during these times". Why give my money to another shop that doesn't remember me or doesn't make me feel so great for coming to their store. Everyone should be killing themselves to make us feel welcome and looking to see what we need!

The other day I found this cute rustic star I had in my hand to buy. Much to my dismay I couldn't see anyone to ring me up she was off in the corner talking to another employee. Which neither one said hello to me or even asked if I needed anything. I put the star down and walked out. I still kind of want it....but I am sure I can find one at my cute store or another of my customer service friendly shops!
Make the stand to CHOOSE who gets YOUR money...make them work for it and really want it!

Better than Gifts

2008-12-29T18:26:00.000-08:00

We turned Ella's car seat around this weekend. We just could have done that Christmas morning to see our little girl give the happiest smile and kick non-stop! She thought....this is what I have wanted all along!

We did have such a nice Christmas. I bought Ella a little elf book and at the end it says "Merry Christmas baby dear, so much merrier with you here!" That is how we felt this year!

Kevin gave me the SWEETEST gift from him and Ella
He went with my sister and her kids to pottery place and made a plate with Ella's foot on it. He put her foot in the paint and she cried and cried! Her foot is the Christmas tree, then he added presents under it and wrote Ellas 1st. I will cherish it forever. Little does he know I will now expect it from all my kids :)

I can't believe it is over!

They call it liquid GOLD!

2008-12-21T19:30:00.000-08:00

This liquid "Gold" has been feeding her and look how healthy and happy she is!

I had the neatest experience today. My Grandma's niece has been donating her breast milk, she just had a baby and has enough milk to feed twins. I asked my Grandma to get the ladies number who she donates it to. I called her last week and set up a time to have my extra milk picked up. I had about 25 8 oz bottles.
Robin is the lady who started collecting donated breast milk. 10 years ago her child with a disability needed to be feed breast milk. People in her ward started donating their breast milk to her and she ended up having more than enough so she started this program to give donated breast milk to others. She said that they have been giving it to an 8 year old girl who has seizures and after taking the breast milk her seizures have stopped. They give it to autistic children, adopted babies, preemies and there are 3 infant disease's that breast feeding can cure NEC is one of them.

A lady and her husband came to my house to pick up my milk. They have a 1 year old baby who they adopted. They used donated milk for the full year to feed their baby. She said that she tried to get her milk to come in by taking hormone pills and seeing a lactation specialist, long story short her adopted baby came 1 month early and she could not get her milk to come in time. When the baby was about 2 weeks old she got sick and was so stressed about her new baby getting sick also. She had a very strong impression that she needed to feed this baby breast milk. The closet milk bank is in Denver. Not to mention that breast milk costs $3.50 and ounce!! She added it up and it would have cost her $2500 a month! She came in contact with Robin, who at the time was running out of room to store the milk and started to put the oldest milk in garbage bags to throw away. She told her that this milk was meant for her and to come and pick it up! She said that she always has enough to meet the demand and in 10 years has never had to throw any away! I was fighting back tears while we spoke. She said that she tried to pay her for the milk and Robin told her that the Lord has blessed these women with milk and they are sharing this gift!

One woman is nursing her baby and donating more than 40 oz a day! My little milk donation is a drop in the bucket. If I wasn't near the end of nursing I think I would pull out that pump a couple extra times, now I am too close to the light at the end I need a break :) With my next baby I will make sure and plan to donate more!
Here is Robin Goff's number #273-0636, if you need milk or would like to donate.

Brooke's Bed and Breakfast minus the BED!

2008-12-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

I did my Monday work meeting at my house for a fun treat! I wanted to do a different incentive for The Black Goose staff for reaching a goal. I have the BEST team. Just look at them, can't you tell! I am very lucky, believe me I have had had my fair share of hard employees. This is what makes me appreciate them even more. They all play full out and help me with whatever I need and they go above and beyond and see what needs to get done. Everyone is highly productive and talented. They are a huge part of why I love my job and look forward to work every day! I am so thankful!

I have to plug our cute MESSAGE BOARDS from The Black Goose! I wrote our MENU on mine. They are so fun to write your shopping or to-do lists or a great gift. Only $16.95...come see me!

I made Eggnog Cinnamon Bread Pudding. It is a Rachel Ray receipt. I wanted something with eggnog in it and this did the trick, it was easy and fast and turned out good!
Click HERE for receipt.

Alphabet Book

2008-12-16T20:04:00.001-08:00

This book...oh what you took!
My sister Brittany has been making these Alphabet books for her two kids. I saw it last week and thought I have to make one! It is such a good way to document Ella's first year and Ella LOVES to look at it, she kicks and yells when she sees it. I am NOT a scrap booker, but I did enjoy making this. It kept me up till midnight a couple of nights. Kevin helped a lot, little did I know how good of a rhymer he is!
Thanks Britt for the idea!

Beautiful Girls

2008-12-08T19:35:00.000-08:00

Oh sweet Ella. My favorite time of the night is when I get to cuddle Ella before she sleeps. I used to nurse her in my room and catch up on my DVR shows or I would read a book. Lately I have been nursing her and rocking her to sleep in her room, with no distractions. It is so nice just to spend that time with her and not have to worry about the next thing I need to do. I can just be with her. I love to watch her sleep. Her little lips pressed together are so sweet. She is beautiful.

Yesterday at my church this young girl sang a song in one of our classes, with about 50 people in the audience. Her mom accompanied her on the piano. I could tell that she was so nervous. She did not make eye contact with anyone. It was all she could do to look up at the ceiling a couple of times. Her neck went red and she sang very quiet. She sounded really good, so innocent and sweet. I kept thinking how pretty she was, she has long red curly hair and this week she did it straight, she looked beautiful. I thought how brave she was to have the courage to stand up there all on her own. When she was done I watched her very close wanting to see what people around her did when she sat down. Her mom sat down and said good job. I wish we could have cheered for her. Or passed around a little note to tell her great job! I know it wasn't meant to be about her, it was about inviting the spirit to the meeting. I could tell that this young girl did not see herself the way all the rest of us saw her at that moment. I can remember being that age and I don't know if I would have really listened if someone told me "no you really did a wonderful job and you looked so beautiful doing it." It was a good reminder to me to stop and think what someone needs to hear from me. And not to miss that chance to tell someone how great you think they are. Or to accept a sincere compliment.
And what did I do, I saw her friends gather around her and I hurried out of the meeting to get home, not waiting to tell her what I saw.
I think being pretty is one thing but doing something brave makes you all the more beautiful and we need to recognize that in our self, and not have to wait for someone to tell us so (but is does help to hear it:) I should write her a note so she knows what I thought!

I will always make sure Ella sees the way I see her, perfect!

You don't want to Miss this...

2008-12-03T12:50:00.000-08:00

Annual Friends and Family Sale at The Black Goose Design and Gardner Mill Company Stores! Come see me!

Early Christmas!

2008-11-30T20:34:00.000-08:00

I bought this car, that converts into a walker with intentions of giving it to Ella for Christmas. As you can see she is on it and no Christmas yet!
I brought it home and thought, well might as well give it to her, she needs something new to play with (the Tupperware bowls and spatula can only hold her attention for so long). This is why I can not shop early. My friend Stacy has her shopping complete and I am sure that she thinks I am a procrastinator for not having mine complete.
I went this weekend and bought all of Ella's Christmas and I am having a hard time not giving it to her, I want to see her play with her new toys! I just think she really won't know if she gets it now or on Christmas. Isn't is just going to be wonderful enough that we have her this year to cuddle and kiss!
Kevin is a gifter. He loves to do nice gifts and surprises. He thinks it is just awful if I try to buy his present when he is around! Or like when I try to tell him "these new boots can be my Christmas present" that will not work for him! He grew up with a mother who's Love Language is gift giving, not mine. I want acts of service done. So I can already tell this will be (one of many) challenges as a mother...making gifts a fun surprise!
I think I should wrap all her presents NOW or she won't have anything left...or I will be back at the store spending more!
HELP!

Design Idea...Accent Lighting

2008-11-24T18:14:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about Christmas is the LIGHTS! I love how your Christmas Tree offers great accent lighting. It makes me smile...the way it sparkles in the corner of my family room, it feels so cozy!
I was watching HGTV's 25 Biggest Decorating mistakes, the entire time I kept saying YES, YES, I totally agree. (Excluding the part they said having too many accent pillows is a mistake) I said a BIG YES on Toilet Rugs...they are disgusting (if you have one now is the time to take it to the trash)
One of my favorite mistakes was Turning on overhead lighting. They said the only time you should have an over head light on is if you have lost an earring and need to find it! Now, I don't want my house to look like a cave, I make sure and have plenty of lamps. One of my favorite overhead light is my chandelier above my dining table it does a nice job of creating a warm accent light. When you have an overhead light on you are lighting everything, and not "Highlighting" anything!

Christmas Shoot

2008-11-22T15:05:00.000-08:00

Angie did a photo shoot at my house with some of my friends kids and Brittany's kids. They ALL turned out so cute. I was trying to help Angie to get some of them to smile and by the time we were done I had the worst headache! Now I know why Angie just sits back and snaps away...they end up turning out great. I love the one with Bronx and the kids, my mom had that great idea, turns out he is pretty photogenic!
Thanks Angie for making a "house call" it makes it so convenient, you do a little touch up,change your clothes and have a snack!

St. George

2008-11-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to my sister Brittany, she ran a half marathon this past weekend in St. George! We flew down for the weekend to cheer her on and get in a quick visit with Kevin's family. My Dad and I ran down to meet Britt where she has about 2 miles left to go. We stood there waiting and searching for her to come around the corner. I couldn't help myself I started to cry. I don't know what it is with me and competitions I get so overwhelmed with emotion. It is very inspiring to me when people set out to do something that is challenging and they accomplish it! It is especially neat to see race's because there are all sorts of people running. I think runners passing by could tell I was crying and so I kept saying over and over to them Great job, way to go, not much longer! I wished I had a fresh piece of gum for everyone running by, I just had one little piece that I thought would boost Britt's energy :) Just down from us they were handing out drinks. One guy was trying to give the runners options, he was yelling "water or Gatorade" there were only a couple of runners at first then a BIG group of people ran past us and he kept yelling "Water or Gatorade" I got so panicked that they needed more water or Gatorade servers. I thought I need to go help him make sure these runners get the option of water or Gatorade! Then I thought it is OK...the runners can just take what they want off the table! Brittany did an awesome job! One of her friends kept asking everyone once the race was over "Don't you feel so good about yourself?" I was laughing at that question, but Brittany SHOULD feel good about herself she did so great!

The WIG and Halloween!

2008-11-01T19:34:00.001-07:00

Kasidee was Hanna Montana for Halloween and we made sure everyone tried on her WIG.
Ella looked like a DOLL, my dad looked like DOG the bounty hunter and Dustin surprised us as a banana! We ate too much then called it a night! Happy Halloween.
Now bring on the Christmas music, turkeys and Eggnog!

Fun Fall Weekend

2008-10-20T19:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a Saturday off for a while so I made sure and used up every minute of it enjoying the beautiful fall weather and my beautiful Ella!
We went to Wee Witches at Gardner Village. We had a lot of fun, mainly walked around taking pictures...so many great spots for photo ops!

We dressed the babies in their Halloween Costumes!

Just some "Girl talk"

Saturday we relished in the last day of the Farmers Market with my parents

My mom made sure we got a "Chocolate Waffle" Ella even got a piece of the waffle (not the chocolate, although my mom might have snuck her some!)

We went to the Utes game after the Farmers Market. Ella loved going down the stairs in the stroller, she was kickin her little feet!

It was a HOT day we were a little over dressed. I love to go to the games for two things, to see Kevin on the sidelines and for the hand dipped corn dogs...yum! (I don't think I looked at the game once oops! Some people will freak to hear me say that, others if they know me will say um sounds like Brooke :)

Ella couldn't go without attacking Taylor before we left the game. It is so fun to see her with little kids, she LOVES them! She sure knows the difference between kids and adults.

My mom had a great idea to make dinner for the Ronald McDonald House. On Sunday we took dinner up and frosted cupcakes for dessert. It was so neat to see that house and the service that is provided to the Families who have loved ones in the hospital.

Ella and her Fun Uncle Dust!

My dad put Ella in the sink...so Grandma came over and chatted with her

The Chefs for a day...with silly teeth! (oh wait am I the only one with the fake teeth...nerd)

2008-10-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

My mom has a tradition with Kasidee and Dillon. Every Fall she takes them to Schmidts pumpkin patch and they get to pick out their very own pumpkin! This year Ella got to go! Kass and Dill had Dustins help picking the perfect pumpkin and let me tell you it was hard with so many options! Thanks mom for the fun tradition! What a way to celebrate wonderful FALL!

Book Club...CHECK!

2008-10-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

What a fun book club night! I LOVE being apart of a "club" :) It spurs my thinking to a new level, I look at things different and dig a little deeper to what I can take away from a book.

Overall everyone LOVED the book! It was hard to put down! With all the Walls children went through I was able to take things away from it that I admired such as living a less worldly life and I took away things that I will NEVER do...like put my children in the back of a UHAL and drive 14 miles..."Good luck kids"!
I admired Jeannette's relationship with her sister Lori. She gave her confidence and encouraged her to reach for the things that she wanted to do and be. Jeannette was a very self assured person, I think because her father feed her with encouraging words telling her she could do anything she wanted. Aubrey said that the Walls children were never told "NO" they never thought "I can't do that"! What a wonderful lesson that is. I read once that Marjorie Pay Hinckley said try not to say the word "NO" when you can possibly say the word "YES" it gives your children the feeling that you trust them and they will be responsible to do the best they can!

Thank you everyone for coming and contributing to such an inspiring discussion!
I asked my husband if he could hear us and he said "Uh ya...it sounded like a ROAR of a stadium!"

Oh sweet Fairy Ella Grace!

2008-10-02T20:31:00.001-07:00

I just finished making Ella's fairy costume...which lead to trying it on her...then to taking some pictures! I could not wait to post them, she just looks so sweet! My mom is out of town again and I knew she would love to see her. It was a struggle to get her not to try to eat the leaves on her shirt, after the newness wore off and about the 10Th picture she was done with the leaves and the rest of it! Little does she know it is all going back on in a couple of weeks and of coarse more pictures.
Happy Halloween.

2008-10-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

Book Club is ONE week away! Please come If you have read The Glass Castle and would like to discuss or if you would just like to indulge in some yummy food, and good company we would LOVE to see you!
I can't wait to hear what everyone thought of the book. I loved it. It gave me a lot to think about with raising my family, the benefits of living a simple (very, very simple) life. And the rewards you receive when you shut everything off in your life, TV, Internet, radio and just BE. Futuristic thinking and creativity were two rewards I feel the Walls children received, they had a lot of time to think about what they wanted to be. I read this the other day "I always wanted to be something when I grew up. I just wish I had been more specific." I believe they were specific in knowing they did NOT want to be in their current situation or raise a family that way. You can tell that the 3 older children made that decision for themselves it sounds like the youngest was not specific in knowing what she wanted to be some day...she let other people take care of her and she did not think for herself. Which is AMAZING that 3 out of the 4 turned out great, given the life they were delt.
Anyways....I should stop and save the rest for BC! Hope to see you.

I found this video interview with Jeanette Walls. Her mother is in it, showing off some of her artwork. Check it out HERE

Best Zucchini Bread and Food Storage Tips Web site

2008-09-23T20:48:00.000-07:00

This is the BEST Zucchini Bread I have made! I got it off this wonderful Blog
Every Day Food Storage
She has great ideas for using your food storage items. In the Zucchini Bread recipe you can use your dehydrated apples to make the apple sauce and use you dehydrated eggs (I didn't do it but you could if you were that fancy :)
I am working on being that fancy with my Grandma getting my food storage up and running! I don't want little Ella looking at me when we have a natural disaster saying mom I am hungry or Kevin for that matter!
This is my Goal for food storage... and I do not know him, I will sure wish I did when something happens!

And this is my food storage, a work in progress! But with her great Blog I have been inspired to do more and use my food storage items more often.

Enough of that here is the yummy recipe, head to the Famers Market to get some zucchini and enjoy!

Brown Sugar Zucchini Bread

1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
1/4 C. applesauce
1 cup light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Pinch nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 1/2 cups shredded unpeeled zucchini
1/2 cup walnut pieces
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (you don't have to have this, but it does add a very nice flavor. Remember the zest is only the yellow part. If you grate the white skin underneath the color, it will be very bitter)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Grease an 8 by 4 by 2-inch loaf pan with 1 teaspoon of the butter.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the butter, oil/applesauce, and sugar. Cream the mixture until smooth. In a separate bowl combine flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and salt and set aside. Add the egg to the creamed mixture and mix until incorporated. Add the flour mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time until all is incorporated, and the batter is smooth.

Fold zucchini, and lemon zest into batter.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle nuts on top (this toasts the nuts and creates a fabulous flavor and makes the bread look SO gourmet!). Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until golden brown or when skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Fun at the Park

2008-09-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Kristy and I took our babies for some lunch and fun at the park. Ella who is 8 months old was so funny with Ethan who is 4 months old she was sitting up and he was laying down and she kept grabbing at him trying to get him to play! We sat them up to take pictures and my camera is too slow (I need a new that captures fast photos when you are trying to take picture of a baby) I didn't get one but she turned to him and tried to lick his face. I think she was trying to Kiss him!
It is so fun doing little play dates, we were talking about how much fun it will be when they can run around and actually "play" at the park. For now I love to be able to still cuddle her and watch as she learns to wave "bye" or do "so Big" or try to clap, or Lick other babies!

Fall = Projects!

2008-08-31T12:29:00.000-07:00

I can tell Fall is approaching...all I want to do is start projects in my house! You might say, do you ever stop doing projects in your house??
This is one project that I have been itching to do and haven't felt motivated until now when I new exactly what to use as a back drop to my glass cupboards! My friend Leslie used this tin in the copper version on her bathroom walls and it looked amazing! I have also seen it used on ceilings (the less expensive way to go instead of real copper)
Here is a before and after picture

I love the final project. It brightens my space and ties in my stainless steel fridge.

I have had this piece on order for a couple of months, I replaced a piece in my entry for this. I love functional pieces. I am all about organizing and making sure that everything has a spot. It drives me crazy when Kev just puts things somewhere to get it out of the way. To me that is not cleaning it is making more of a mess! Now this piece I can use to hold bags, the dog leash, things I need to return to stores or to people...it is a great catch all!

One way to know if you like something is to start a book of pictures that you have riped out of magazines or of pictures you have taken at other homes. You will start to notice a pattern with the things you are drawn to, and the next time you go to do a project flip through your book and go from there! I took this picture at one of the homes at the parade. And looking back through my book I have several other photos of bench's or Hall trees. I appreciate the practicality of them!

All about Ella

2008-08-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

Kevin started back to school this week. Ella gets to go to her Grandmas and Auntie Brittany's a couple times during the week. We are so lucky to have people that Love her and are willing to help us out while Kev finishes school.
At Aunt Tiffie's Ella would not go to her, all she wanted was her husband Bobbie. Ella held his hand and cuddled with him...I think she is used to the male figure around her all day! Aunt Brittany painted Ella's little Piggies! I just keep looking at them thinking how cute they look...brave Britt you can tell she is a stylist!

Ella is getting so big! She loves to lounge and eat dinner in her Big girl chair up to the table....I love it because it doesn't take up a lot of room!

Armstrong to Phelps

2008-08-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Watching Phelps all I could say is WOW he is such a competitor! I am fascinated and drawn to his story like I have been with Lance Armstrong. They are the best of who they run with.
I was listening to Glen Beck on my way home from work. He was talking about Phelps Mom and a story she told about when he got his first gold medal. She said he called her after a race and told her to meet him by the fence. She walked over and saw him walking towards her with a smile on his face and he put the gold medal through the fence and said, "look what I did...look what I did!"
I loved that "Look what I did". He had to be having an out of body experience. Looking and thinking I can't believe it happened. After all his hard work.

I keep thinking about what he said "Look what I did." It makes me think of the things that I would like to walk away from and say to a loved one "Look what I did." Instead of look what I should of done or I could have done if I really made the effort.
It is why we are drawn to Phelps and people like him because they just don't inspire us to take up swimming they inspire us to reach for more and push harder.

I was watching So you think you can Dance and one of the dancers getting kicked off said "You do anything you can Dream of." I turned to Kevin and said that is so STUPID. I am so sure, oh ya I can do anything I dream of! OK I want to be like Oprah. Kevin said that is just something you tell your kids. That is real nice, I would never tell my kids something so outlandish. Now looking back it is what YOU dream of. I don't dream of being Oprah or being the best dancer. I dream of other things...simple minded things. Like being successful at what I do everyday at work or with my family.
It has made me think more about what I want. I know that Phelps knew exactly what he wanted he wrote it down before the Olympics...8 gold medals.
Now I need to write down what I want.
It won't happen if I don't know what it is!

Side note: For those I know were wondering "where is Phelps Dad?" his mom and dad got a divorce when he was 8. I asked his mom :)
And my image of Edward is Phelps, he is a Super Natural human for all those that are reading Stephanie Myers series! Maybe he is a vampire??

Hike to Dog Lake

2008-08-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Utah is such a beautiful place to live. We are so lucky that we can just drive 10 min. from our house to hike in the mountains.
Today Kevin, Ella and I went on Bell Canyon Trail just off Wasatch. It is an hour hike there and back.

Cute Park Ranger...thinks he is "Bear Grills"

15 minutes into the hike you come upon this little waterfall.

At the end of the trail (or where we decided to end) was Dog Lake. It was so pretty. Just hidden inbetween the mountains. Ella loved putting her feet in the water. (Yes her hat is a little small :)growing...growing out of everything.

There were lots of ducks...next time we will have to take bread to feed them!

What a great day off! We need to do this more often!

Design Tips on 2 News

2008-08-07T16:48:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to be a Judge for the Parade of Homes. I judged the $300,000 to $400,000 price range. Most of the Homes were in Day Break and they were all really fun homes. The Black Goose Design did Home #27 and we won for Best Interior Design in the 2 million price range! It is a great home with a Pirate ship that has a hot tub connected to it in the basement, a Bonzi Grill, a Sports court those are just some of the features. If you have time stop by and see it. Home #6 is another great home that has furniture in it from The Black Goose. The Parade of Homes ends August 16th.

I was referred by The Home Builders Association (from participating in the judging) to Chanel 2 News to do 2 2min spots talking about Design Tips.
I am going to be on this Friday August 8th at 6:53 am and 7:23 am.
Tune in for some tips and to see a familiar face on the NEWS!

Organic Foods at Sunflower Market

2008-08-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

I LOVED the new Sunflower Market across from the Fashion Place Mall.
I went there wanting to buy organic food to make Ella's Baby food with. They had a large variety of organic produce at a great price. I was able to make sweet potatoes with broccoli. Sweet Potatoes with leaks, peas and of coarse spinach. Yummy pears, apples with cinnamon and organic sugar free apple juice.
I bought myself Almond Butter. They have a machine that makes it fresh from ground almonds right there!
For great tips on making your own baby food, check out this site www.wholesomebabyfood.com I have and will continue to make an extra effort not to give Ella processed foods. I know that when she gets older and goes to others homes she will eat what she chooses and what others give her. I want to make sure that she is getting good food at home that will not stunt or effect her growth or development from all the added hormones in some foods. I know it is an undertaking! If anyone has any good articles on this subject let me know...I like to read more about this topic.
Have fun at the Market!

My mom, my inspiration!

2008-07-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

My mom has been in Texas since July 6th. We miss her when she is gone for work and Ella misses her doing her baths and taking her on walks. She was only supposed to be gone until July 26th but due to the Hurricanes and power outage (her supervisor has been without power for over a week!) They were behind on work so they asked her to stay another week.
Monday was her day off and she said oh I have been busy. Doing what?? I asked. She said that she tried to call Red Cross to go and help out but she couldn't find the number so she found the local food bank and went and did service for a couple hours! She is so amazing. She inspires me to do good. I want to be just like her. Anyone new that she meets when she travels wants to take her home with them and literally wash her hair or take her to the mall to have her picture taken! She said she has "I will be your friend" written on her forehead. We are happy to share her. She can make a big difference in all those peoples lives she meets just by being her kind, empathetic self! Love you sweet Mom!

This Just in at The Black Goose Design

2008-07-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

We just received about 15 NEW charms! My favorites are the Large double sided flowers. And the one that says..."My sister my Friend" (Britt you are getting that one the next time you do my hair!) It has two little girls holding hands on the beach. Come in to The Black Goose Design and I will give you a BLOGGING Friend Discount! You will want to buy one of each! If you are a Shopper then you need the "SHOP Girl" one that says Most Women Spend 8 YEARS of their lives shopping!

Ella Grace 6 month pictures!

2008-07-16T19:38:00.001-07:00

I woke up today excited because I knew that I would get my CD from Angie of Ella's 6 month pictures! I LOVE every one of them, Angie does such a good job. I will be standing right next to her as she is taking the pictures and have know idea the amazing angles and shots she is getting. Thanks Angie!
Here are a few...

As Per Request...

2008-07-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

Rachel requested that I post a picture of this Watch me Grow Chart that I made.
Here is the recipe:
It is 6 feet tall by 11 1/4" wide board
You can paint the sides and back of the board any color that matches your paper.
All the papers are cut to 3 3/4"
Then distress the edges of each square with ink distress
Apply a small amount of modge podge to the back and run something heavy over the top, like a rolling pin. A little word of caution...don't use too much modge podge it will make the pages bubble.
Happy Crafting!

My 2nd Request was from Stacy to post my Famous (haha)
Cranberry Cookie Recipe:
Blend together:
2/3 cup butter
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 TBLS honey
ADD and Mix:
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
Stir in:
2 cups flour
1/2 cup oats
1/2 tsp of salt, baking soda and cinnamon
Stir in:
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans or hazelnuts
3/4 cup white chocolate chips
Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 12 min at 350 F
Happy Baking!

Last but not least was a request from my mom. She is a world traveler! She went to Paris for fun and is now in Texas for work! She asked me to post a picture of Ella EVERYDAY while she is gone! She has been gone for a week and a half now...finally here is a start! Here she is pulling Bronx's hair in her cute outfit that she wore for pictures today.

Book Club Selection for October 9th

2008-07-11T11:42:00.001-07:00

My mom, Grandma and Brittany all read this book, The Glass Castle and loved it! I have wanted to read it so what a perfect time. Here is a brief overview...
The Glass Castle is a memoir written by journalist, Jeannette Walls. Jeannette writes about her unique childhood, sharing her fond memories of her father and mother. She tells how they refused to conform to society's ideas of responsibility, leaving their children to fend for themselves for even the most basic of needs, such as food and shelter. Jeannette tells her story in a straightforward fashion that is not touched with anger or self-pity, belying events that often shock her readers with her almost innocent presentation of the facts. The Glass Castle is an astonishing memoir that will leave the reader both stunned by the tragic circumstances of Jeannette's childhood and awed by her strength.

Ella Gets Mush!

2008-07-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Ella will be 6 months this Thursday, July 10th! I finally gave her Rice cereal on Sunday. It was about time, many of you saw her reach and grab at my cups whenever I would have something to drink or at my plate of food. I read that you will know when they are ready to add some variety to their food, and now I know what that meant! She LOVED getting to eat out of a bowl. Here is a picture of her taking charge of the situation and trying to feed herself!
And one extra BONUS picture just to poke fun at Kev... Ella did a BIG spit up right on is face and all down his neck! He was mad I even took this pic. so I am sure he will LOVE it on the blog!

Have-He Fort-of Jew-Lie (lame MAD GABS attempt)

2008-07-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Last year on the 4th Kev and I announced we were going to have a BABY! DUE 01-30-08 on a fruit pizza. I was so nervous to tell everyone, I don't know why I just was! It is a big deal and we had waited a while to tell people. Now looking back I maybe would have told everyone sooner so everyone could join in my anticipation. You just read way too much into others advice in books or the Internet. One lady wrote that she waited for 6 months, HELLO, she didn't HAVE to tell anyone by then...they already knew! Now going through it myself I know what is best is what feels the best to me!
How exciting that this year we got to celebrate our freedom with her!
We took Ella to the WJ parade.
Grandma Heaps and Ella...she LOVES her!
Enjoying the overcast weather! Thanks Denise for Ella's "darling" 4th bracelet!

Ella did NOT like the fire trucks with the loud horns! Britt kept saying she is going to cry when those go off, she wanted to put earmuffs on her... I said she will be fine, I would rather not "look" over cautious (I know I don't have to "look" it I am it) and she CRIED!

End of the day...she was ready for her bed, so was I!

My BEST and WORST purchases

2008-06-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

This goes under one of my "BEST" purchases. I buy it at the Farmers Market! It is Miracle Salsa. It is called that because it contains 3 miracle foods:
Fresh Garlic-lowers blood pressure, builds immune system and remove heavy metals.
Raw Honey- helps to calm the mind (what I need) and it is a natural energy booster.
Apple Cider Vinegar- helps to balance the bodies PH levels and it is an antibiotic.
This year they came out with the base mix that makes 7 lbs of salsa! All you need to do is add a can of tomatoes and you can enjoy salsa! My favorite snack!

This goes under one of my "WORST" purchases. I thought this bottle would be great to keep my water cold when I work out or at work....Today during my "CORE" class at the gym I wanted to throw it across the room and say "I hate you bottle" but I resisted knowing that I could BLOG about it! It does not stay cold and you can not SUCK hard enough to get the water out before your eyes pop out of your head!

This is a "BEST" and a "WORST". I also bought this DEES cereal at The Farmers Market. It was $10.00 and the DEE salesman (not DEE) said it will make 40 bowls of cereal that equals to .25 each (good sales tactic) They had cookies there to try...we all ran to the sample tray and loved them. Then I was pulled in by the pancake recipe, any healthy version of a thing I love, I will try. I made the pancakes this weekend and LOVED them! I have to say the cereal is SICK on its own...I couldn't even choke down a 2ND bite! It does have Millet in it and I do not enjoy that on its on our disguised in cereal and garbanzo beans (weird)

1st Fathers Day

2008-06-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

My friend Jess gave me this cute idea for Fathers Day. I gave Kev a card that said
"Plant this TREE with Ella and take care of it with her...watch it GROW as Ella Grows!" I gave him a gift certificate to our favorite nursery (no way could I pick it on my own) We went and bought our "Ella Tree" a Honey Locust tree! It flowers in the spring and smells wonderful! Kev is such a loving hands on dad, what a gift he is to Ella and I!
Happy 1st Fathers Day Kevi!

Ella sat in her Bumbo while I planted flowers in the front...what a happy girl!

Giggle Girl!

2008-06-15T19:53:00.001-07:00

It is a treat when we can get Ella to laugh! Bronx can usually do the trick. Only Kev and I have been lucky enough to witness it...so I had to post it so you would believe us that it has happened!