The new naughtiness

Why I'm glad sees candy is expensive

For some reason I had to make this new candy for Christmas this year. It turned out pretty well. It is a scotch kiss wanna be, a soft caramel candy surrounding half a marshmallow. I really like it. I ate too many- it didn't take many to be "too many". 3 I think. On Christmas i had two and got a huge migraine sugar headache They are delightful. If you want to see the recipe google scotch kiss recipe and you'll get a link to a blog that has a step by step , with pictures, tutorial. thank heaven they are so expensive at sees- and that sees isn't too close ;)

Before jack

A few weeks ago we made these silly little treats at sisters day. I had to blog on these two pictures cause I laugh every time I see them.

After jack

So she says

Maybe next year I'll blog on happy pictures in my life. Here's one of Katie's back. It was reported by her 5 yr old sister that Katie drew this on herself---- a little suspicious I'd say

So beautiful

It didn't come

We are waiting for Aubrey's mission call to come. We thought it would come yesterday. Well, it didn't. Thankfully there is enough other things to do to keep us occupied for awhile. Laura said it must be taking a little longer because they need to really make sure her call to the SLC temple mission is right for a Lehi girl ;)

Last Saturday

Last Saturday I was laying in bed texting my last post about going to the when a call came in erasing my post. It was Joseph. He had left about 7:30 am for work at south town mall. The morning was unusually snowy. The snow really started Friday night and I actually had the thought that night that the snow was going to cause our family a wreck. So Joseph got to the other side of the point of the mountain, a typically more dangerous part of the freeway, and did a couple of spins on the ice. He ended up in the right shoulder, er... Passed the right shoulder where the jeep had run into a wire type fence. He told us about what had happened and we got his location just as the highway patrol got there. We jumped out of bed and got to him as soon as we safely could. He was sitting in the patrol car, to stay warm and safe, when we pulled up. He came back and got in with us shaken sober and prayerful. He still wanted to go into work, so we took him. We're not sure of the damages but the jeep was "undriveable". He did get a citation for going faster than conditions allowed-- bummer. We are so thankful he was ok and that no other car was involved. It could have been so much worse.

What we ate

So for what ever reason I've been very neglectful of my blog. Sore-ey. I needed something kinda big to pull me back to the blog world so you get a food review. Last Friday we found ourselves all alone. We had tickets for the whole family to go to The Christmas Carol at
The Hale Center Theater. The kids all took off early saying they would meet us in Orem-- so David and I hit a place in Orem to grab a bite. I had been there before but was not that impressed. It is called Paysen or something close to the city of my birth Payson. It's run by the cafe rio peoe but it is Italian food. We got the chicken Florentine soup and a sandwich, and a little panna cotta to share. The food was tasty and easy to get quickly. We will go there again.

November happenings

Halloween 2010

I'm really not a huge fan of Halloween, but there are a few fun things about the holiday. I'll tell you just one- Joseph has been saving his money for a monkey costume. He is sure he will use it *all the time* plus he wanted to pull a Halloween silly at school today. His buddy was going to be out in the lunch area and start to peel a banana-- enter Joseph. A chase scene and they both run out of the building. As Joseph tried on the costume I called him "power-line" from a goofy movie- and told him not to get detention. I saw the movie, I know how it goes. (As a perspective thing goes, its so awesome to see my boy being light hearted and having fun instead if having anxiety issues like he's had in the past)

It's 10:46 pm and I don't know how the monkey thing went. He went to his last night working at cornbellys- a corn maze place in Lehi. I'm pretty sure he didn't get locked up for the prank, I never got a phone call.

While the cats away

When my husband goes out of down I am very gentle with myself. I sleep crooked in bed, watch shows he doesn't like much, (the nanny, everybody loves Raymond to mention 2) I also go shipping/looking. Recently I found this little advent calendar type Christmas decoration. I snagged one for my family but now I'm looking for 24 ideas for what to put in those little doors. Let me know if you have any suggestions.

What I'm glad we had

In a very odd twist of fate, 3 out five of us ended up with the stomach flu early Monday morning. Thankfully, it was only a twenty four hour deal. While we were feeling awful I was so thankful I had at least some of these comfort items. I record this here for me to remember and for anyone else who needs a few ideas. Laura is making a list too so we can compare ideas. The first item that was used was some Listerine. I had been using a little bottle as a gargle to keep sore throats away- well it came in very handy to rid my mouth and throat of some very awful tastes. Gatorade was the first thing that seemed to even be appetizing so I'm glad we had that too. Of course easy to use soap and hand sanitizer was good to have. Later, 7-up and crackers then ramen was perfect to have. As I type this I'm thinking maybe it's too much information. But really when no one wants to go out, and those that aren't sick don't want to be home, it was great to already have these things here. So I went out today to replenish supplies.
Hope this info helps your life

UEA at Disneyland

"I am a part of the fellowship"

Recently there has been negative press on a certain talk given at general conference. It is really sad how the talk has been labeled as "hateful" and "hate disguised as love". The whole finger pointing is very divisive. Often, when there is finger pointing the person accusing is actually violating the issue they accuse the other person of. 

For FHE we went to the Lehi house so Dave could fix the latches on the windows that lift from the bottom, instead of the side. (If any summercrest friends need this fixed at their homes call me! We have extra parts and know how). While he worked Jacob and I write letters of thanks and support to Elder Packer. Dave asked me if i thought President Packer would actually get to read any of the letters.  I told him I didn't know, but that for me, it was something I needed to do, and something I wanted my son to see me do.  So we both wrote while Dave fixed the windows.  After they were fixed I read my letter and asked Jacob if he wanted to read his.   Jacobs letter brought tears to my eyes and a beautiful spirit into our unconventional fhe. 

Today a quote came to my mind that I am really feeling these days. I'm going to try and memorize it. Here's the first part. 

I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. 

Connie

Maybe the best

Friday night my food husband took me to thanksgiving point for a date. It was great to have him back in town and going to TG point was perfect, close to home and usually no waiting. We shared an entree so we had enough money and room to try one of the desserts. We tried the suggested creme brûlée. The waiters said some have said it wad the best they'd had. So we gave it a try. It actually was pretty good. It seems some creme brûlée kind of leaves a coating all over your mouth that's marginally gross- but TG points was not like that at all. It came with a tiny bit of fresh raspberries and a fancy strawberry and a few yummy cookies that complimented it very well. I think we will give it another try sometime. Text me if ya want to come with me, ah... I mean come with us. :)

A first, On Lauras bday

On October 3 we had a birthday breakfast for our Laura. It was more like brunch since it was between morning and afternoon conference. We had a great time with everyone there, and for the very first time, we used our huge dining room table. Still need to get place mats or a big table cloth, but I think it was a great event to celebrate with another first in this home. Happy birthday sweetie-- we're so glad you are in our family.

Another picture

Jack wants more

Laura and Steve have been teaching little Jack some sign language. The little man has been showing his understanding of the word "more" and I've got to see him in action a few times. It is really awesome. The fun thing is the more he wants *more* the faster he signs it. It is so cute!! Here's a picture of him communicating he wants more ramen noodles!! Silly grandma, I was just giving him pretzels and gummy worms.

Quality vs Quantity

I come from a pretty big family. Dad, Mom and seven kids. I happen to be number 5.

When I was younger some people we knew used to tell my Mom, at times in front of us kids, that she had "quantity" kids while they had "quality" kids. The two ladies that said this to my Mom had 2 kids each. I think it was said a little in jest, but I know it hurt my Mom. We as the kids always wondered about it. I don't think we ever believed it cause to us, having a big family was a good thing. We didn't go on as many cool vacations or had as many fashionable clothes, but we were happy and those things really didn't mean that much to us.

Fast forward to all us kids being grown up. Every week many in my family play together. We get together on Sundays for dinner and once a month for dessert palooza. We go out to lunch together, we meet up and do stuff together. My family that I was born into is such a huge blessing in my life. Other people join us for these events and appear to love being with such a big group. Anyone that shows up more than once is immediately an honorary member of our family. I'm so thankful for my big family. I'm so thankful we are involved with my great nieces and nephews, and that my kids have a great association with cousins.
While the Quality vs Quantity thing still kinda stings, there is no way I will ever believe a big family is not quality!

A happy surprise

last night I was here at home all alone. Jacob was at YMs, Joseph at a rock concert, Kim off with Jordan and David in Texas. I was on the computer getting things done for my new calling and a knock came to the door. It was 4 or 5 young women and one adult leader on a service scavenger hunt. Well... I wasnt going to put them to work, but I did tell them I had something they could do for me. They all sat down and I explained I was kinda new and didnt know many people. I wanted them to each tell me something about themselves that is kind of special so I would remember it about them and maybe remembe their names. They started to tell me when another knock came to the door. There were about 8 more girls and 2 more leaders. I was so happy to see them. I made them come in and join the others in giving me service. They were all so cute and happy and they laughed at my lame attempt at humor. I gave them my blessing on teasing and being friends with Joseph and Jacob. They were very fun and silly about that. I was surprised how happy their little visit made me. I do have to wonder why I was put in scouts..... ? whatever

we got an offer

Wednesday night, Jacob and I went to the Lehi house to drop a key off on the new lock box. Joel had left it there earlier that day. Last night, Thursday, Dave came home from work telling me he had just been on the phone with Joel, our favorite realestate guy. There had been a showing (the boys call it a viewing) a Thursday afternoon and the lookers (or viewers) would like to buy the house. WOW! so thats where we are. David leaves for a business trip on Monday so we will need to sign documents this weekend. Actually while we were buying David was out of town and he faxed in his signature.... weird hua? So I guess it could still wrap up next week. I will be good to have all the money stuff settled down, then we can start to finish moving in!
last December or January I wrote something like, I wonder what 2010 will bring. NEVER thought we would buy AND sell houses... So weird, but good. Its good
Heres a better way to see the house
www.utahhomelocator.com then search
991521

Im not sure how to feel about this

We signed the papers and the Lehi house is up for sale. I'm both happy and sad. Type in Utahhomelocater.com and search MLS #991521
The house looks great.

something new

A few days ago, my good friend Michelle talked me into going for a walk with her. We went to the Lehi Legacy center and walked for about an hour. It was awesome. She is a very good listener and helps me keep a balanced view of some garbage in my mind. I had forgotton how therapeutic walking with a friend can be. It beats music or book on tape by far. I have thought about comparing the music I walk to and sending it to my sisters in exchange for their playlists. I have really enjoyed the latest book on tape Im listening to. It is the Christ Stewart series of "the great and terrible" I didnt think I would be okay with it, but surprisingly the end-of-the-world sernerio isnt too much for me. ANYWAY, walking and talking it really awesome. That first day, I was really sore. Mostly my ankle, which is odd, but must be from an old break. So we have gone a few times and its awesome. I am convinced that there is no way excercise will help me lose weight, but I do have hope it is good for my heart in more ways than one.

The good news is the bad news

Joseph was able to secure a job about a month ago. He works at a kiosk in south town mall and sell the *balance* bracelets. It doesn't matter to me if the bracelets do all they claim to do, I'm just thankful the guy has a job. He is paid hourly with some commission. He does a good job and has usually sold more than he is expected to each shift. Whatever.... A recent perk has been discovered. It is both good and bad for me. Joseph works near mrs fields cookie store. The cookies go on sale after 8:30, so when Joseph works that late, he gets a few cookies or brownies to bring home.

This past summer during the prep and actual move, I often wanted just one really good chocolate chip cookie, ok maybe two. The kids and I had an mission to find the best pre made cookies. I never really found a favorite. I do have to say that in my quest Mrs Fields gets my vote now. They are better than Albertsons, subway, Kneaders, great harvest and Costco. They are also better than homemade in the fact that they don't end up to be 36 cookies calling my name. Thankfully I don't go to south town mall ever and thankfully half a cookie satisfies me, ok maybe a whole one.

I had to do it

I ran off to the book store the other day to find a gift. I was very unprepared for what I saw as I turned the corner of a row. There with several non threatening books was Voldemort--- it's true. I've tried to avoid his face and his voice for as long as he's been around. It's very tricky and rather upsetting when it jumps out at me when my guard is down. So! I did what any sensitive person would do and I made is face unseeable. I feel very good about this act of service to my fellow men.

Ps. I am not a racist.

Today at sisters day

I meet with my Mom and 3 sisters and a couple nieces and friends each week. We actually took most of the summer off with occasional meetings at the park- but now we are in full swing. It was my turn to be in charge, but I spaced it. We were going to etch our names into glass bakeware--- well we rescheduled that and Mom stepped in with a worthwhile activity. We made the little boxes out of plastic canvas. There is a jingle bell in each box. We can donate them to the humanitarian department of the church or to the festival of trees. We also made a pan of 7 layer dip to enjoy. We had lots if littles with us today which is always fun. Mom, Karie, Laurie, and I each had a grand baby there. Holly had two there, but she lives in California so we enjoy Adam and Dillon for her. Adam is just a little fella, but he pointed out several pictures of a football in the newspaper to me. What a cutie. We also had adopted-in Tori and Macy there. It was a lot of fun.

Sometimes I get so sad

David and I spent most of today working in the Lehi house. We did some exterior painting and a little interior painting. It seems like we did more than that. I came over yesterday to let a hvac guy in to work on our furnace. I sat in the house for about 1 1/2 hours while they fixed the problems. When I finally left, I was pretty sad. It's hard to put my finger on exactly why this happens sometimes. There are so many great memories and relationships associated with the Lehi house. I guess I think too much like an old sentimental lady.

Marinara sauce with Jack

Jack came to see is last Friday. Laur and I had been to the maceys cooking class that morning and saw a demo on making marinara sauce and breadsticks. I hadn't planned on making anything that afternoon, but went by the old house and picked fresh tomatoes and basil to make the recipe. I was happily surprised with how many tomatoes I found. That poor garden is kinda crazy, but it's producing pretty well.
I later made breadsticks. The kind you roll out in the pan, spread on mayo, butter, garlic and parm cheese (if you want) before you put it in the oven. It was a great success with Jacob Joseph Steve and David, breadsticks and sauce- perfect summer evening snack.

It's a grandma thing

The home (Lehi home) grown goods

The end result

A new favorite thing

The Sobe drinks were on sale recently and I tried one on a whim. This one has gone from a blind try to a favorite in one taste. I do love Fuji apples. I went back before the sale was over and stocked up :)

A good thing

I feel like a whiner for not appreciating the stone floors in this new place. Travertine is what it is called I think.
I always have cold feet, and the stone does not help. I've been wearing my flip flops most of the time to keep off the stone. Well today I got a rug for the soft wood floor in the family room, and they threw in this runner as well. SO happy!! The work area of the kitchen is stone , but for now I'm just thrilled with the hall taken care of!

Our Friday

Since David has been burning the candle at both ends recently, he got off of work a little early on Friday. Joseph had made an appointment for us to meet with an admissions councilor at a college he was interested it. I wasn't *thrilled* to go but I figured anything that will help him get through this last year of high school is a good thing. We met David at the Art Institute Of Salt Lake. The 2 hour talk was impressive yet a little weird on the -sales pitch- the real shocker was the tuition. 20,000 a year for the culinary program. ahhhhhhh well...... We're going to have to look around--- TWENTY THOUSAND!!!???

Well Joseph took off to a Jack Johnson concert that he had won tickets too and David and I went off to hunt for an area rug. Our soft wood floor is getting beat up. We need a rug 10X14. We didn't find anything but we did stop to get a bite to eat. We actually visited with a chef at the "institute" and he said he liked to eat at Tiburon, Log Haven and Epic. We tried Epic. My opinion is it wasn't that epic. Everything it seemed was cooked with some alcohol- I know it cooks out but I don't even want to taste it-our dinner? - it was ok. Don't think we'll go there again~~~~ whatever. We looked a little bit more for rugs without success, but came home and watched The Fugitive--- if you know me you know that translates to David watched and I fell asleep :). So there it is--- our friday

It took some looking around

I've finally found a few things I really like to decorate my home. We've gotten a few pieces of furniture from a consignment shop in AF. I found very little there as far as home accessories go. I really am far too practical. I think the right thing to put on a kitchen counter is the phonebook with a little container of pens and some paper. I am so picky in finding things I like that between my over practical mind, lack of being able to find anything I like in the right price range, I usually end up with the boring and cluttered practical look. My friend Michelle is being a great example and, unbeknownst to her, shes nudging me forward in finding things I like. I looked at the furniture stores, some consignment stores, pier 1, thai pan trading (the smaller store in the mall) with very little to be impressed with. Many things were
-ok-, some not even ok and over priced for something that we are just going to look at. WELL... I went by Rodworks on the way home from Kyle and Kimbers wedding and was so so so happy to see things that really called to me. The little plate, dish thing and vase really really know my name! I went ahead and bought them the next day. I'm not sure the arrangement is right with the lantern, but even if not- I like all the pieces so much it doesn't matter where they go in my home. I need to find some greenery that is priced well and then clear off the bill-paying-station at the end of this table then this room will be done! If you know any other hot spot for me to check out- let me know. Next time I'll tell you about the great carpet find Jess clues me in on!

A few more things

The little tree came from a consignment shop right by Rodworks. I couldn't leave the store without it.

Wednesday in Hawaii

Today we went on a helicopter tour of the island. I kept wishing it were Rick Bourne, my chopper flying nephew, at the controls. The island really is very beautiful and some parts untouched from much of humanity. We also went to the farmers market. We ended the day with Dave and I hitting the restaurant here at the resort. Laur and Steve had gone earlier and following their recommendations we had a great dinner, with a beautiful view and atmosphere. After dinner we were tired and sleepy but walked the long way back to the room. We stopped at a hammock and laid there for about 45 min rocking in the breeze and talking and relaxing. It was the best 45 min I've had here. We decided we totally need to come back and do the hammock chillin again. It was a great night, and a great day.

Tuesday

After 3 1/2 days in Oahu seeing the visual offerings in Kauai came as a welcome relief. Not that Oahu is not beautiful, but it also is so big city, has heavy traffic, and difficult parking. I woke up to a more tranquil setting and had breakfast with a great view. We spent time in the room and around the grounds, then ventured out to go surfing. The 4 middle kids had gone out close to where we were staying earlier and all but Jacob wanted to go back out. David and Steve went out and made a great effort as well as Kim and Joseph. Laura and I didn't bother with the board rash on the tummy and arms not to mention the sunburn risk. While we were waiting I was playing with Jack There was some drumming in the nearby park so we walked over and saw some sort of hawaiian dance class going on. There were about 5 adult drummers and 20ish kids between 6-15 doing the hip shaking moves. the guys in the group were doing the guy moves. It was interesting and I would have watched longer, but I felt like an intruder. I ended the night stroking little man Jacks arms, legs and back. He fell asleep as we waited for his folks. That is incredibly satisfying to this granny. Oh ya, speaking of granny, see if you can see my shadow in the picture. Teeshirt and hat! You can call me shade-seeking-Connie.

Monday