The 912 Project - Rallying the People

Let's talk about our values and principles. Come join with other link minded people in making your voice heard in America. Click here to learn about our local meetup. If you live somewhere else, click here (and then click the tab "Stand Up and Lead") and follow the directions to find a group near you.

Who wants to join me April 2nd? I don't want to go alone...please come with me!

Check out The 912 Project.

Preparing for General Conference

I have enjoyed reading and studying the most recent General Conference addresses more than I ever have before in my lifetime. I look forward to watching/listening to General Conference again this weekend. For my friends who are non- members, two times a year we as church members are taught by our living prophet, Thomas S. Monson along with his counselors, general authorities and other church leaders. This is broadcast on local television (I believe here it is channel 9) on Saturday from 10 am-12 noon and again on Saturday from 2-4 pm. Then there are two more sessions on Sunday from 10 am - noon and 2-4 pm. Everyone is welcome to watch!

Challenge: take your worries and your questions and write them down. As you watch conference, your questions will be answered. ONE BY ONE. Please share these with us - leave a comment. (This challenge and cute picture come from this post)

How do you prepare for conference? Here are some ideas from Bethany on "Wife Like Me":
1. Make a list of specific questions or issues you're working on - refer to challenge
2. Fast about a specific topic before Conference
3. Pray
To feel the Spirit
About one or all of the things on your list
For the speakers
4. Learn about the General Authorities' lives, families, etc.
5. Have a Family Home Evening about General Conference (how to act during, what happens, who speaks, etc.)
6. Read your Patriarchal Blessing if you have it
7. Get plenty of sleep the night before
8. Do all your cleaning and chores before Conference if you can
9. Set out your clothes the night before so you can be dressed and ready to listen. Consider reverence and comfort when choosing your clothes for the day.
10. Plan to discuss the talks after you watch Conference. This helps you pay attention because you know you'll have to have something interesting to say about it later.
11. Plan to listen for which talk to focus on for your Visiting/Home Teaching lesson
12. Plan and shop for meals the day before. Have a Conference food tradition.
13. Plan where and how to watch Conference in advance.
14. Find your journal or whatever you take notes in. Find a pen, too.
15. Read talks from the last General Conference.

Here is an excellent talk "Preparing Our Children for General Conference"

Great activity links:

LDS General Conference activities extensive list from SugarDoodle

April 2009 General Conference Packet created by Melanie of SugarDoodle.net
April 2009 General Conference Packet created by earl-girl8086

The Friend - General Conference Activities -6 links in right hand column

Kids Conference baskets

Current Apostle Cards

Conference goodie bags for visiting teaching.

Making Conference Memorable

There are many more links (here is a post from Marne's friend, Holly...she has put together an AMAZING list of TONS of Conference resources if you need more!) I could post more suggestions but it gets overwhelming! Thanks Marne for some of these links - I copied them from your blog.

When I make conference fun for my kids, it helps everyone to listen more attentively. One of our favorites is playing Bingo with M&M's. Yum! I think I will make Crepes this year for a fun dessert - I will make them ahead of time. I also need to keep my hands busy (besides taking notes) - it helps me stay awake.

Menu Monday

The lesson I learned this last week is that I am not going to post the recipe for a new recipe until I try it myself. Last week I tried two brand new (to me) recipes which were Lemonade Chicken (Paul rated it 6 out of 10) and South of the Border Enchiladas (I rated it 4.5 out of 10).

Monday- Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup (freezer recipe I am trying)

Tuesday- Hawaiian Haystacks (brown rice, diced chicken, chicken gravy, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, celery, coconut, pineapple tidbits, green onion, crunchy chow mein noodles, soy sauce)

Wednesday- Southwest Pocket Chicken (freezer recipe I am trying)

Thursday- Mexican Manicotti (I use to make this all the time)

Friday- Mini homemade pizzas or leftovers

Saturday - picnic lunch
Filet Mignon (on grill), baked potatoes, veggie, salad

Sunday- BBQ Beef Sandwiches, veggie tray, chips, dessert

Sabbath Day Observance

This topic has been bouncing around in my head for a long time and I wasn't sure that I should share it on my blog. This topic concerns me because I don't think we fully appreciate the Sabbath Day or take advantage of the spiritual feast that is available on this holy day. Over 18 years ago, I learned a powerful lesson while attending Ricks College (wow that makes me feel old). Up until this point I would procrastinate my weekend homework for Sunday evening - which I dreaded. Then I ran across a talk from Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. that changed my course.

Here is the portion of his talk, The Resurrection, that stood out to me. "If you are not keeping the Sabbath day holy, repent and start doing it. If you are not truthful, repent and start telling the truth. If you are not honoring your parents, repent and start honoring your parents. If you are worshipping false gods—such as football, baseball, golf, tennis, or money or technology or automobiles or houses or gold or silver—and you can tell what a man worships by what he does on Sunday—repent and start worshipping the true and living God, the maker of heaven and earth and all things that in them are."

At that moment, I realized that by doing my schoolwork on Sunday evenings that I was worshipping myself and my grades over God! That phrase "you can tell what a man worships by what he does on Sunday" is my measuring stick. I know it is easy to rationalize things - but stop to really think about it. Who are you worshipping on the Sabbath Day? What do you your actions show?

I've had to cut out some things on Sunday including: reading the Sunday paper and ads, searching blogs for coupon deals, preparing elaborate dinners, hanging around the house in my most comfortable clothes, entertaining friends, and some of my reading material.

I really like the concise words written in the "For the Strength of Youth" pamphlet about observing the Sabbath Day. We reviewed this with our children for last week's Family Home Evening.

"The Lord has given the Sabbath day for your benefit and has commanded you to keep it holy. Observing the Sabbath will bring you closer to the Lord and to your family. It will give you needed rest and rejuvenation.

Many uplifting activities are appropriate for the Sabbath. Worship the Lord, attend church, spend quiet time with your family, study the gospel, write letters,write in your journal, do family history work, and visit the sick or homebound. Your dress before, during, and after church meetings should show respect for the Sabbath (I learned this concept from Sister Tanner. I use to run home for church and grab my most comfortable clothes. Now when I stay in my Sunday attire all day I have noticed that it definitely affects how I worship and it reminds me Sunday is the Lord's day. I have extended this practice to my children. Try it and notice the difference you feel.)

When seeking a job, share with your potential employer your desire to attend your Sunday meetings and keep the Sabbath day holy. Many employers value employees with these personal convictions. Whenever possible, choose a job that does not require you to work on Sundays.


Sunday is not a holiday or a day for recreation or athletic events. Do not seek entertainment or spend money on this day. Let your friends know what your standards are so they will not try to persuade you to participate in activities that are not appropriate for the Sabbath."
Doctrine and Covenants 59:9–13

Spencer W. Kimball gave a talk titled The Sabbath --A Delight. He states, "The Sabbath is not a day for indolent lounging about the house or puttering around in the garden, but is a day for consistent attendance at meetings for the worship of the Lord, learning and instruction, enjoying the family, and finding uplift in music and song.

The Sabbath is a holy day in which to do worthy and holy things. Abstinence from work and recreation is important, but insufficient. The Sabbath calls for constructive thoughts and acts, and if one merely lounges about doing nothing on the Sabbath, he is breaking it. To observe it, one will be on his knees in prayer, preparing lessons, studying the gospel, meditating, visiting the ill and distressed, writing letters to missionaries, taking a nap, reading wholesome material, and attending all the meetings of that day at which he is expected."

This is a commandment that I am constantly working on. Here are some things that I am doing today to help me observe the Sabbath:

• Planned a very simple Sunday dinner and prepared part of it the night before.
• Play church hymns on CD
• Dressed in my Sunday dress right away - our church is late.
• Read scriptures, review lessons
• Encourage children to participate in Sunday Stations
• Clean/tidy the house the night before
• Review Young Women Broadcast notes from last night
• Keep in touch with family

Do you have any thoughts to share?

"If we don't stand for virtue who will?" - Sister Dalton

Last night I attended the General Young Women Broadcast (I am the Beehive adviser). Mary N. Cook (1st Counselor) invited all women to complete the new value, virtue. Here is a link to this new value with the virtue value experiences and the project. I am taking on challenge, will you join me?

Sister Dalton's talk was about a return to virtue. Never before in the world has there been a greater need for virtue. She said, "One virtuous woman led by the spirit can change the world." That powerful statement motivates me to be virtuous and to prepare myself spiritually so that I can be led by the spirit. Our country faces a very critical time, we need virtuous women, virtuous men, and virtuous leaders to stand up for truth and righteousness. That means we need YOU!

If you missed the broadcast, you can view it here.

Here is the Sweet Pork Salad

I forgot that I had posted this recipe last year on this blog. Here is the link. - I updated it a bit.

Free Fun at the YMCA

We love our membership at the YMCA - I thought that you might enjoy this information about a fun free kids day (really it's a family event)!

Healthy Kids Day 2009 Would you like to put more Play in Your Day? …with your whole family? How about learning together to make healthier food choices and be more active? And build stronger connections within your family and with others? Then join a half-million kids and grown ups at more than seventeen hundred YMCA’s nationwide to celebrate the eighteenth annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day, Saturday, April Eighteenth.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day brings families and communities together to celebrate healthy living with a fun, free and empowering day of active play and resources for healthier living. You can also learn more about…or register for summer camp, swim lessons and other positive YMCA programs that support more than strong bodies—they’re designed to help shape kids’ character, too!

Saturday, April 18
Downtown YMCA, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Caldwell YMCA, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Homecourt YMCA, 3-6 p.m.
West Y-City, 12 - 4 p.m.

FREE to the community!

Activities include:
Swimming & Pool Activities
Rock Climbing
Family Relay Races
Craft Activities
Bike Safety
Nutrition Tips & Activities

Learn from the Founding Fathers

I placed another order for the 5000 Year Leap. I have a few extra copies if any of you would like one. They are $6.40 each (that is with the shipping already added) which is a fabulous price. We are reviewing this book principle by principle on the book blog - click the heart in the right hand column. Please email me if you are interested at tiffwinward@hotmail.com

Are you interested in freezer meals?

I am thinking about starting a freezer meal group. My sister has a group of 8 ladies that meet once a month to trade meals. So that means they make 8 freezer meals (the same recipe) and then swap and come home with seven new meals and one of their own. She also orders the disposable 9x9 aluminum pans and everyone buys their pans from her (something like $0.32 each). Then you can have meals ready to pop in the oven and meals ready to give away without worrying about getting your pan back.

I am willing to give it a trial run and see how it works.

If any of you are in freezer meal groups, please share the pros and cons with us. I think a lot of us are interested, just a bit skeptical.

Get away!

Paul and I are getting away tonight - thanks to Tisha and David! We are staying at the Anniversary Inn - in Sleeping Beauty's room. Oh, it will be nice just to get away and especially wake up without worrying about the kids.

We didn't do anything really big to celebrate our 15 year anniversary - so we decided to do this. It is a rare treat to have some time to ourselves.

Take advantage of the Anniversary Inn's specials - don't pay full price. We booked the room yesterday and got it for $119 (plus tax) instead of $289. It doesn't pay to book far in advance, you don't get the great deals.

Cannery Information

Now let's switch gears to physical preparedness - specifically food!

Are you wondering what is available at the cannery? HERE is the list of foods and prices. I have been to the cannery many times. If you have any questions, please ask. Our cannery here in town also has wet pack products that are available. If you are interested in the wet pack schedule and price sheet, please let me know and I will email that list to you.

Here is the pamphlet "All is Safely Gathered In" (be patient it takes a minute to load) that is written by the First Presidency. It focuses on a 3 month storage of every day food, drinking water, financial reserves, and the long term food storage (1 year). Stay tuned - we will break this down step by step.

DAY THIRTY TWO

"I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth, are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and non-existent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead find joy in the journey - now." --President Thomas S. Monson "Finding Joy in the Journey"

"Our spiritual journey is the process of a lifetime, ...we each have moments of spiritual power, moments of inspiration and revelation. We must sink them deep into the chambers of our souls. As we do, we prepare our spiritual home storage..." -- Elder Neil L. Andersen "You Know Enough"

Thank you for participating in this journey - I have enjoyed hearing from you and knowing that together we are strengthening each other. I would love to hear anything you have to share (experiences, suggestions, stories, feedback and anything else). My journey has just begun --- feel free to check back often!

Joy in the Journey Handouts

These are some pictures from the Relief Society that originally put this program together. If you are thinking about sharing this with your ward I thought this would be helpful. The top picture shows a countdown calendar of all the days assignments. Every week they gave the sisters a bag with all the items needed for those days. Does that make sense?

I know a few ladies are using this program - please share with the rest of us what you are doing.

Making Memories Warehouse Sale

This is a FANTASTIC sale! I was lucky enough to go a year ago when I made a little trip to Utah. I came back with the car loaded with all sorts of fun scrapbooking supplies - the Cooper barely had room for the girls and me!

Does anyone want to go shopping for me? I would LOVE you so much!!! I keep thinking about making a trip to Utah but it's so far away.....humm.

Making Memories(they have a coupon for a free item if you go to their website)
Location, Dates, and Hours
Location: 1168 West 500 North Centerville, Utah 84014 (Centerville Exit, West of I-15)

Saturday, March 28th: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Monday, March 30: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday, March 31: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday, April 1: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

DAY THIRTY ONE

"Sisters, now more than ever we need women to step up and be strong. We need women who declare truth with strength, faith and boldness. We need women to set an example of righteousness. We need women to be anxiously engaged in a good cause. We need to live so that our lives bear witness that we love our Heavenly Father and the Savior Jesus Christ and that we will do what they have asked us to do." -- Sister Barbara Thompson (from her talk, Now Let Us Rejoice)

Is your life bearing witness that you love our Heavenly Father and Saviour Jesus Christ? Are you doing what they have asked you to do? Ponder these questions and journal your thoughts.


P.S. Tomorrow will actually be the last day in our "Joy in the Journey" program. I would love to hear any of your comments and suggestions.

What did you get out of this?

Are you implementing this program in your ward or stake? Please share with us.

Menu Monday

It's time to review two new recipes that I used last week. The homemade macaroni & cheese was awesome - three out of four kids really loved it. I would probably add more noodles to the recipe next time because it was very cheesy. The Fabulous Fetticine was very good, also. I think the spices in the recipe are what gives it the excellent flavor. I might even try to cut back on the bacon (I used the pre-cooked bacon from Costco- great to have on hand because you can freeze the bags for later) to cut out some extra fat.

Monday: Lemonade Chicken (new recipe to me), brown rice, salad

Tuesday: Gourmet Pizza Buffet at Flying Pie Pizza- voted the best pizza in town.

Wednesday: Spaghetti with White Clam sauce, Macaroni Grill Foccacia bread, edamame

Thursday: Easy night - grilled cheese sandwiches and soup.

Friday: Personal Pizza's, veggie, fruit smoothie

Saturday: South of the Border Enchilada (new recipe to me), Spanish Rice, veggie (we didn't get to this last week)

Sunday: Costa Vida Sweet Pork Salad - a family favorite and much less expensive than eating out. Now the large sweet pork salad is $7.99!

DAY THIRTY

If you have never read this sacred document - please take the time to read it and print it out for yourself. It is written for the world to understand the importance of families. The picture above is hanging on my wall with black and white photos glued to a matte surrounding the proclamation.

Read "The Family, A Proclamation to the World". Journal how this proclamation has blessed your life. This would be a great FHE lesson.

(For FHE, we went through the proclamation paragraph by paragraph with our children and explained it to them. I printed the proclamation and then cut it up into paragraphs which we then glued onto a poster board. I let the kids draw pictures about the proclamation around the edges. We spent two weeks reviewing this with our children.)

The Blessings of the Temple

Enjoy this beautiful video. We are truly blessed to have temples throughout the world. The temple is all about families and helping each other get back home to heaven. Oh, I look forward to the day when I can return to my heavenly home.

A few weeks ago the song "O My Father" had a powerful impact on me that I sang the first verse just fine but choked up on the second verse because the words came alive to me. "For a wise and glorious purpose Thou hast placed me here on earth And withheld the recollection Of my former friends and birth; Yet ofttimes a secret something Whispered, 'You're a stranger here,' And I felt that I had wandered From a more exalted sphere." I know that I did come from a more exalted sphere to be placed on earth at this time to test my obedience and to fulfill my purpose. I like that last words of the song "Let me come and dwell with you." That is our goal! Click here for the hymn and type the song name in the search.

Vivian and I Experiment

For some reason, I have extra craving for sweets on Sunday evenings. I really tried to fight against it. I got out some ingredients then I put them away. I almost talked myself into waiting until FHE treats tomorrow night...but then I succumbed to the chocolate. Vivian and I made an experimental chocolate cake. She was happy to help knowing that the beaters were hers to lick. We started with a cake mix, added the eggs, water, applesauce (to replace the oil) - then we added chocolate chips, marshmallows, Hershey's chocolate syrup, and Nutella to sweeten the deal. I had to leave out the oil to counteract against all these added ingredients! Then as soon as it came out of the oven I coated it with German chocolate frosting (the coconut kind) while it was still hot. Immediately we enjoyed warm chocolate cake. I must have had an extra sweet tooth because Paul said, "It looks like Mom is being extra generous tonight." He opted for the smallest piece - we all enjoyed the larger pieces with a cup or two of milk. I thought of inviting several of you, but it was too late and we are all tired from staying up late last night to watch the movie, Bolt. Who wants to be invited for my next experimental dessert?

Yes, the gym is calling my name for tomorrow morning? Want to join me?

Ipod Nano

Yesterday I finally found an Ipod nano that I was willing to purchase. I have wanted one ever since I became Glenn Beck Insider. For the last few months I have borrowed Corbin's MP3 player that he received two Christmases ago to download the daily podcasts. Corbin has been very patient with my use of his player. Thank you Corbin!

I have had my eye on the newest Ipod Nano at Costco - but at $139.99 I just wasn't willing to make the deal, especially since I would need more accessories for it. However, I have been searching craigslist for one that fits my needs. I looked at everything from the lastest Ipod Touch, the Classic Ipod, the shuffle and to the Nano. I can't believe how much memory some of them hold - up to 160 GB (maybe more). Wow! I settled for a 3rd Generation Ipod Nano with 4 GB at a steal for $50, especially since it included skull candy earphones (I just paid $15 for an identical pair) and a metal protective case. It's like Christmas for me!

DAY TWENTY NINE

I know it is spring break and many of you might be gone! I know life gets busy - I hope you finish the journey! Only a couple more days - hang in there.

Sister Beck mentions that we should "help our homes to be sacred sanctuaries from the world," a refuge from evil. One way we can do this is to be aware of what we let into our homes via the TV and computer. Place a small picture of Christ (could be a pass along card) and place it on your TV or computer to remind you that your home is a sanctuary. Read and mark Helaman 5:12.

DAY TWENTY EIGHT

I didn't pre-schedule this post and I slept in a little today! That's what happens when I go to sleep two hours later than I usually do! Thank you for your patience.

Read and mark Luke 10:38-42. Read the Relief Society Declaration (this is a link to print a bookmark with the declaration if you don't have one). Are you always choosing the "good part?" Journal your thoughts on whether you are more like Mary or Martha.

Mary Ellen Smoot has two wonderful talks about the purpose of the Relief Society and one that goes through the declaration line by line: 1) Rejoice Daughters of Zion and 2) A Recipe for Our Time (scroll down to find this message).

Are there any men participating in the journey? This program was originally designed for the Relief Society. Here is a quote that explains the importance of understanding the Relief Society program. President Spencer W. Kimball stated a number of years ago that “there is a power in this organization that has not yet been fully exercised to strengthen the homes of Zion and build the Kingdom of God—nor will it until both the sisters and the priesthood catch the vision of Relief Society.”

DAY TWENTY SEVEN

"Relief Society is to help women 'plant and make grow...a testimony of (Jesus Christ) and of the gospel.'"--Julie Beck.

Take time to reflect on the divine organization of Relief Society. Enjoy a bag of popcorn and reflect on this quote "These popcorn kernels are like dormant seeds in the cold winter ground. As they lie in this bag they never progress to their full potential or grow to what Heavenly Father has created them to become; until they are exposed to heat. Like these "seeds" to your testimony of Jesus Christ and the gospel. Does it lie dormant of does it grow when exposed to a little heat? Ponder and journal your thoughts."

DAY TWENTY SIX

Women: Read "Fulfilling the Purpose of Relief Society," by Sister Julie Beck. This recent article, Focusing on the Lord's Work of Salvation, by Sister Beck shares how the Relief Society can make a difference in the world. It's a must read, also!

Men: Read "To Learn, to Do, to Be" by President Thomas S. Monson

Underline phrases that inspire you as a Relief Society sister. Journal your thoughts.

Square Foot Gardening

Have any of you seen garden seeds on sale? I need to buy some....please share your deals with me.


Okay it's that time of year to get your garden ready. Last year I didn't get mine planted until the beginning of June (late). We went on a long family trip the last part of May and I didn't want to burden anyone with watering or worrying about it. This year is my year to get this done right. This will be my third year of square foot gardening. This is how Marne explains Square Foot Gardening in a nutshell...."basically, you plant in boxes, use grids so you can plant per square foot (it keeps everything orderly & maximize your space), use a special soil mix, and get more food from one 4x4 box than you ever thought possible. SFG is by far the easiest way to garden. If you hate gardening because of the work involved, then SFG is for you".


With SFG there is:

*no weeding
*no rototilling
*no fertilizing
*no over watering
*better plant growth
*perfect for small yards or apartments
*more yield from one small box that in a large ground garden
*ONLY enjoyment!

Click here for the official square foot gardening website.

Vivian loves harvesting strawberries from the garden. We have one whole 6' x 6' box of strawberry plants and everyday she is looking for ripe berries. One of my favorite things to grow is basil - oh, it smells so good and makes the best pasta dishes!

Experimenting

As you can tell, I am experimenting with a new background. I like all the fun colors and energy. I want to learn photoshop so I can personalize my banner with photos. I have a lot to learn. I like the two column version that has a wider column - where do I find designs for that? (Joanie, if you are reading this I need your help because I like the clean look of your blog.) Thanks for any suggestions.

A Return to Virtue

As you know we are discussing the 5000 Year Leap on the blog Seek Out the Best Books. I just reread Principle #2 which states: A free people cannot survive under a Republican Constitution unless they remain virtuous and morally strong.

Benjamin Franklin said, "Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters. (Smyth, Writings of Benjamin Franklin, 9:569)

I find this very interesting, especially since the Young Women's Theme has recently added "virtue" to the previous list of seven values, including:faith, divine nature, individual worth, knowledge, choice and accountability, good works, and integrity. Why was virtue added and what does it mean? Sister Dalton explains, "virtue is a pattern of thought and behavior based on high moral standards. It encompasses chastity and moral purity. Virtue includes modesty—in thought, language, dress, and demeanor. Virtue provides an anchor on the path leading to our Heavenly Father’s presence. The paths of virtue lead to happiness in this life and in the life to come. The paths of virtue lead to strong families. The paths of virtue contain the foundation stones for the blessings of eternity. They lead to the temple. No wonder Joseph Smith said, “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things” (Articles of Faith 1:13).

At our last General Conference, Sister Dalton spoke again about virtue. She said, "virtue is a prerequisite to entering the Lord’s holy temples and to receiving the Spirit’s guidance. It encompasses chastity and moral purity. Virtue begins in the heart and in the mind. It is nurtured in the home. It is the accumulation of thousands of small decisions and actions. Virtue is a word we don’t hear often in today’s society, but the Latin root word virtus means strength. Virtuous women and men possess a quiet dignity and inner strength. They are confident because they are worthy to receive and be guided by the Holy Ghost. President Monson has counseled: “You be the one to make a stand for right, even if you stand alone. Have the moral courage to be a light for others to follow. There is no friendship more valuable than your own clear conscience, your own moral cleanliness—and what a glorious feeling it is to know that you stand in your appointed place clean and with the confidence that you are worthy to do so.”

We must not be desensitized by the world and the wickedness that surrounds us. "Now is the time for each of us to arise and unfurl a banner to the world calling for a return to virtue. May we so live that we can be instruments in preparing the earth for His Second Coming, 'that when he shall appear we shall be like him, . . . purified even as he is pure.'"

"A Return to Virtue" talk by Sister Dalton
"Cherish Virtue" talk by Sister Dalton

What are you personally doing to return to virtue - (please give us some specific examples)?

DAY TWENTY FIVE

Quote for women: "Relief Society has within its commission some of the most remarkable service opportunities on earth which are available to all sisters." --Julie Beck

Quote for men: "[I]t is a privilege to hold the priesthood: 'It is a commission to serve, a privilege to lift, and an opportunity to bless the lives of others'". -- President Monson

Perform a random act of service today --pray for guidance and follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost. Journal how you felt when you were finished.

Everyone Can Create - DAY 24 Supplement

This beautiful video is your gift today! What are you going to do with this powerful gift of creation?

St. Patricks Day Ideas

Today is St. Patrick's Day! I don't get too creative when it comes to celebrating this holiday. The one thing that I remember growing up is that we had green syrup on our pancakes. So following in my mother's footsteps, I got creative enough to make green syrup this morning. My kids thought it was so cool. Olivia said she is going to tell her teacher that she is wearing green on the outside (her clothes) and on the inside from her breakfast. This morning she is trying to invent a trap to catch the Leprechauns. That reminded me of the movie, Darbie O'Gill and the Little People - do you remember that from way back when?

If you want to do a something maybe a little more creative than green pancake syrup, check out this neat website for lots of cute ideas (her pictures above).

DAY TWENTY FOUR

Read Genesis Chapter 1, the account of the creation. We are all children of the Supreme Creator. Today spend time creating something: try a new recipe, work on a talent, do a craft, make something for your home. Appreciate your creativity.

Please feel free to share - I would happily post any pictures for everyone to see. Email them to tiffwinward@hotmail.com

Look at April's ffff

ffff stands for "Fight for Freedom Fridays". She writes excellent articles on Fridays - stay tuned.

I think she wrote an excellent review of the movie "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" take a look HERE.

Menu Monday

Thanks to Marne's encouragement I am going to get back to my "Menu Monday". My week goes much easier when I plan ahead the meals. Marne, I am stealing some of your recipes to try them out.

Monday: Homemade Macaroni & Cheese (healthy version), fruit smoothie (similar to this - I just throw things together), broccoli/dip

Tuesday: Revision- St. Patrick's Day Dinner corn beef, cabbage, potatoes, and something green!

Wednesday: Brown rice with hamburger gravy, veggie, salad

Thursday: Fabulous Fettuccine (new recipe I'm trying out), fruit salad, veggie

Friday: pizza (homemade), salad, fruit smoothie

Saturday: South of the Border Enchiladas, Spanish rice, veggie

Sunday: Sweet and Sour chicken (prepared ahead - is a little time consuming), brown rice, edamame (I buy it at Costco), egg drop soup

DAY TWENTY THREE

Reread President Uchtdorf's account about cooking (from day 21). Make a recipe card for a happy home and post it in your home. Just for today, accept all compliments with a simple "thank you!"

Recipe for a happy home: Ingredients: 1 cup of common sense, 1/2 cup justice, 1 cup of love (sifted), 2 tsp. of sense of humor, 1 tsp. spice of nonsense. Directions: Mix well and enjoy

How many are still participating in this journey? Please shout out if you are here by leaving a comment - even if it's just "hello". I know we started out with 85+ participants - how big is our group now?

DAY TWENTY TWO

Read and mark D&C 46:11-26. Take a moment today to list your accomplishments, talents and abilities. Really think about them and pray to have Heavenly Father reveal them to you.

The 912 Project

I love this mosaic that is made up of individual photos - do you see me? This "mosaic shows the faces of just some of the thousands of people that understand that our power may be limited as individuals but it's limitless when we bond together. After all one picture is just a picture, but thousands of them put together can make a powerful statement."

Check out www.the912project.com - Warning: the server may be down due to the overwhelming response.

DAY TWENTY ONE

Read "Happiness, Your Heritage" by President Uchtdorf. Ponder and mark the passages that impress you. Journal your feelings.

Don't Have Cable?

I don't pay for any extra TV stations - no cable or satellite TV. If you are like me you can still of your favorite show, online for free at Freetube. The trick is that you have to watch them live. The only show I care to watch is Glenn Beck on Fox News (3 pm my time). So I click on the News button which then lets me scroll down through the news stations. I then click on Fox News and waalah- there is the show (with commercials and all).

The problem for me is that I'm not always here at 3 pm to watch and I can't record it for later.

Here is the family friendly link to freetube. Please do not google "freetube" because it will bring up the unfamily friendly version with pornographic pictures. That is specifically why I gave you this link. I learned the hard way - I don't want you to.

We Surround Them Viewing Today

We are not alone - let's gather together and watch this show. The big key with gathering together is that we can talk afterwards and find friends who share our same hopes, concerns, and passions for our country. Remember to watch the "We Surround Them" show today on Fox News. It airs at 5:00 Eastern Time - or 3:00 pm my time. CLICK here to view a map and find a viewing near you.

I will be attending the 3:00 viewing at Smokey Mountain Pizza - and also a few people (Chad/Marne Jody/Craig) are coming to my house at 7:30 pm to watch the recorded version.

DAY TWENTY

Read and mark D&C 50:14, 22 (the scriptures are online). "As we fervently prepare using the scriptures and approved church materials, and ask the Lord for help, He will give us the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost, and we will know what to say so that all are edified" said by Barbara Thompson.

Locate your pass along card (get one from your bishop) and prayerfully consider who you will share it with. Place it in your purse or wallet and pass it along before we complete this journey.

StrawberryMallows Dippers

I saw this picture near the strawberry marshmallows at Albertsons and I decided to make them for the family last night. We celebrated our anniversary as a couple and a family. Everyone loved the yummy treats. I dipped our strawberries in chocolate, which got a little messy. I thought it was a fun, easy idea. HERE are the instructions.

Dessert First Please!

Yesterday Paul and I enjoyed lunch at Cottonwood Grille. I LOVE their banana bread pudding dessert - it's a must try. (You can always just go for dessert - I have quite a few times).

This time we opted to have dessert first before our meal - Mom I hope your not listening. I felt like I was breaking some kind of unspoken rule! Needless to say I was not very hungry for my food, at least I got to bring half of it home.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Excellent movie - (now in redbox)! We just watched it last night. Oh, it will tear at your heart.

Summary: set during World War II, a story seen through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration camp, who has a forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence.

DAY NINETEEN

As brothers and sisters in Zion we truly "can do something extraordinary today!" Journal ways you will go the extra mile to "be a mighty force for good in this world".

Women: Read the talk, Now Let Us Rejoice. "I know...we can do something extraordinary today. We can be a righteous army of women armed with love, compassion, kindness, service, and faith. We can be a mighty force for good in this world." -- Sister Barbara Thompson

Men: Read the talk, O Ye That Embark. "It is not surprising that we feel from time to time nearly overwhelmed. Your thought that 'I'm not sure I can do this' is evidence that your understand what it means to hold the priesthood of God." --President Henry B. Eyring

I Splurged!

Yesterday I was at Trade Secrets (beauty supply store) and I splurged on something in my favorite color - green. I absolutely loved the color called Green-wich Village. I tried to talk myself out of buying it because some other colors were 60% off and this one was a new color- but I just had to have it.


They explain this color to be a "vivid green that's downtown mod." I can't wait to paint my toes with this - oh, summer is just around the corner! The actually color is a little deeper and not quite as bright as the photo.


I also bought a really cool yellow polish - but green was my favorite. I needed something to add a splash of color to my sometimes too serious life! I need to have a little fun, right!

DAY EIGHTEEN

Read and mark Mosiah 18:9, "Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrections, that ye may have eternal life."

Look up compassion in the topical guide and study some of these scriptures. Journal your thoughts.

Tomorrow - Start Reading & I'm celebrating!

Get ready, get set......tomorrow we are officially beginning the reading of the 5000 Year Leap. We hope that you join our online book discussion - we need your participation for it to be beneficially to everyone. Share your favorite quotes, your insights, your thoughts, anything - please don't hesitate!


And tomorrow is our 15 year wedding anniversary! Can you believe how times flies. No big trip this time - not like our 10 year anniversary that we spent in Hawaii. We are keeping it simple. If you have any great ideas, please share!

We Surround Them Viewing Party

Are you interested in coming over to my house to view the "We Surround Them" Special Edition by Fox News? I have posted about this before - check out this post for more information.

PLEASE RSVP SO I KNOW WHO IS COMING!

We will be watching it this Friday, March 13th at 7:00 pm - it will be a videotaped version of the live broadcast which airs at 3 pm.

(Marne? Jody? Tisha? anyone else?)

DAY SEVENTEEN

President Spencer W. Kimball taught, "The more we serve our fellowmen in appropriate ways, the more substance there is to our souls." Serve someone anonymously today. Pray to be guided to someone that needs you and follow that prompting.

I challenge you to post a comment and let us know how you served someone today!

DAY SIXTEEN

Julie Beck said, "We can do the work of the Lord in His way when we seek, receive, and act on personal revelation. Without personal revelation, we cannot succeed." Read your own personal revelation...your Patriarchal Blessing. If you don't have one, talk to the bishop about obtaining it.

Healthy Strawberry Shake

This morning I made an extra healthy strawberry shake to compliment the unhealthy cinnamon rolls I baked.

My secret ingredients were:
fresh pineapple in frozen chunks (not pictured)
frozen strawberries,
pomegranate juice
1/2 banana
1 can Dole Tropical Fruit
1 cup plain Mountain High yogurt
handful of fresh spinach leaves
skim milk

There was no water or ice added to this shake because most of the fruits were frozen. Corbin and Paul were the only ones that noticed the spinach - everyone else was clueless. I love my Vitamixer - we use it all the time to make fruit smoothies.

Sledding Fun

Yesterday afternoon we headed to the hills for some sledding fun! This was sledding without all work - they pull you on your tube up the hill! No exercise involved! We had a lot of fun. I usually hooked up with Vivian, but then she ditched me for Porter. The worst part was the drive up and down the mountain (a few icy miles) - Olivia, Corbin and Vivian kept saying the were going to throw up. Fortunately only one actually did - and that was Vivian. She is extremely sensitive to curvy roads and hot summer days. I remember the good ol' days in Alaska where we would sled down the road in front of our house. There was no $10 ticket/person, no driving, etc. Oh, I loved the Alaska sledding!

DAY FIFTEEN

Read and mark Proverbs 16:24. Sister Barbara Thompson in her talk, Now Let Us Rejoice, said, "Remember...a kind word of encouragement, a note of thanks, a phone call, a loving smile, a helpful deed, and a reminder that God loves us are often what is needed most." Today contact by phone/mail/email a friend or family member you haven't spoken with in a while.

DAY FOURTEEN

Read and mark 1 Nephi 1:5. Pray for the sisters you visit teach (men apply this to home teaching), for your visiting teachers, and for your partner, each one by name. If they are struggling, consider putting their names on the prayer roll at the temple.

Free Download for 5000 Year Leap

I am so excited to share this with you. I have been telling you about our new online book blog that I am doing with April, my sister-in-law. Check out the blog and learn how you can order the book or download a free copy.

DAY THIRTEEN

Women: President Uchtdorf states, "I am grateful for who you are: treasure daughters of infinite worth." Ponder this statement. Print this quote on a piece of paper and place it where you can see it to remind you of your worth in Heavenly Father's eyes. Enjoy your chocolate coins.

Men: Elder Richard G. Scott: "[A]s a husband or son, express gratitude for what your wife and mother do for you. Express your love and gratitude often. That will make life far richer, more pleasant and more purposeful for many of the daughters of Father in Heaven who seldom hear a complimentary comment and are not thanked for the multitude of things they do. As a husband, when you sense that your wife needs lifting, hold her in your arms and tell her how much you love her." Take Elder Scott's advice and act upon it.

Cookie Bouquets

I had to scramble for a last minute mutual activity for the beehives. Tami saved the day by suggesting that we make cookie bouquets. They meet the criteria of easy, fun, and inexpensive. Take a look at what the girls created! HERE is a tutorial and step by step pictures.

After assembling the flowers, we delivered them to residents at Sunbridge Care Facility. Oh, we were all a little nervous at first but by the end we had made some good friends. One dear lady, Myra, had me take down her phone number. She really wants us to return to join them for bingo or a movie night. I think we will have to take her up on her offer. I could have stayed their all night visiting them.

Paul Jumped the Hurdle

Paul successfully passed the Series 7 Exam - not an easy feat which required 100+ hours of study. I'm so glad that the test is over. It reminded me of him studying for the bar exam - not fun for him or the family. The General Securities Representative Exam, commonly referred to as the Series 7 Exam, is a required exam to become a Registered Representative of a broker-dealer in the United States. The exam covers a broad range of investments including stocks, bonds, options, limited partnerships, and investment company products.

Paul is helping clients with asset protection, including: wills, trusts, and estate planning. Let him know if he can be of assistance to you. Okay - that's my little plug for him. He works hard for our family, thank you Paul. Give your spouse or dad a hug today - they fight dragons daily for our families and they need all the support and love we can offer.

DAY TWELVE

Think of visiting teaching/home teaching. Do you truly have a testimony of it? What can you do to increase your feelings about this sacred service? Please journal your thoughts. List ways your visiting teachers and/or home teachers have blessed your life.

DAY ELEVEN

Women: Read "Now Let Us Rejoice" by Sister Thompson. Mark the parts that uplift you. Journal your thoughts and impressions. (Click on the talk and it will take you to the link).

Men: Read "Lift Where You Stand" by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Mark the parts that strengthen you. Journal your thoughts and impressions. (Click on the talk and it will take you to the link).

Are you there? Check out the new Button

I am wondering where everyone is! I keep checking for comments, feedback, or a quick hello - but rarely is there one. I know there are many of you out there - I would really LOVE to hear from you. Come on, don't be bashful!

Also take a look at my new book club button (on the right) - the site is up and forming. My sister-in-law, April, has spent lots of time creating the cute buttons and banner. Feel free to add one of these buttons to your blog! We hope you join our online book club. This month's featured book is "The 5000 Year Leap".

Porter turned 10!

Can you believe that Porter turned 10 years old last month? We all had fun at Pojo's Fun Center - the boys had a little extra fun with all the hidden coins they recovered. We all rode the bumper cars - even Vivian was able to navigate her way around! Happy Birthday Porter, we love you!

DAY TEN

Write in your journal today about your feelings regarding the temple. Schedule an appointment(s) to attend the temple this month. Take a moment to look through the temple pamphlet, "The Holy Temple" (available for free from church distribution- you probably already have a copy). If you are not endowed, take steps toward preparing for your temple ordinance.

The article, "Holiness to the Lord", by Vaughn J. Featherstone is excellent. Highlight the many blessings that the temple can bring to you and your family. (This was not originally part of the journey but I wanted to share it with you anyway.)

My thoughts: This is very timely because our temple opens tomorrow - it has been closed for the past couple weeks. A couple weeks ago, in Ward Conference our Stake President (President Hennemen -spelled correctly?) challenged us to double our temple attendance. He said that if every person that already has a current temple recommend attended once a month - that a new temple would have to be built in the valley. So if you have had a goal to go once a month - double it to twice. You will be blessed.

DAY NINE

Read "Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants" by Sister Allred, highlighting parts that touch you. Find a temple picture and place it in a prominent place to remind you of the blessings of the temple. (click on the link for the article) This would be a great topic for FHE tonight!

In my home we have a picture of the temple in each of the children's bedrooms, in addition to a larger picture of the Salt Lake Temple in our living room (the same room we meet each morning for scripture study).

DAY EIGHT

Reread the story about Borghild Dahl (from Pres. Monson's talk). Write in your journal about some recent changes in your life. What blessings or lessons come to pass? How did you grow? How can you face changes better in the future? Consider fasting and praying for the ability to experience change in a beneficial way, and truly find joy in the journey.