My Breakfast Wish

Paul and I sat down to plan the week, day by day. When we came to my birthday he wanted to know what I wanted for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For lunch and dinner I went easy on him - one is a lunch date with him at Chili's and for dinner I would like to take the whole family out to Carino's.

I told him he didn't need to make anything special for breakfast, but he insisted that he wanted to. He said, "Close your eyes and just think of what you would really love." So I closed my eyes and thought real hard. And the first thing that came to my mind was Creme Brule French Toast, even though it is a breakfast food, it really has all the calories and fat like a dessert!

After telling him my answer he said, "That will be an expression of my true love because I can't stand that stuff." Oh, I laughed and laughed at that comment - even though it is very true. He doesn't enjoy it like the rest of us do - it's too sweet for him but not for me! He's getting a little terse in his old age.

Tested Recipe- Lasagna

I made this delicious lasagna that Marne posted on our recipe blog. I actually made two 9 x 13 pans, one is for the freezer. I added dried rosemary and tarragon to enhance the flavor - I love it!

Here is the recipe!

Cherry Chocolate Cake - in the oven!

When I'm craving chocolate and something quick and easy - I make this! It's a time tested recipe - I love it every time I make it.

Family Night Out

Yesterday the whole family shopped at Old Navy (everyone found something except me) after eating dinner at Baja Fresh. We all needed to get out of the house! Then the kids played at McDonald's Play Land to burn off some extra energy.

We have been on break for the entire week - I'm ready for them to return to school so I can get ready for the holidays!

Christmas Advent Chain

I found a fun Christmas advent chain on sugardoodle.net. Every day until Christmas it gives you an activity to do. I am letting each of my children make their own chain today - this it's a great Sunday activity!

For example: December 1st - Help your mom today without her asking you to. (This is my birthday! I look forward to all the service.)

My Bedroom is Clean

My bedroom is finally clean and tidy! My (or should I say our) bedroom is usually the last place that I take time to keep looking nice. Many times I have had to lock my door when company comes over just to make sure they don't see the mess. Yes, it's embarrassing to say that but I have a whole house to keep clean! Does anyone else struggle with this or am I alone?

Paul and I set the timer for 30 minutes and listened to "Eye of the Tiger" to keep us moving. The timer rang and we still had some loose ends...so we took a break and hit it again. Our bedroom also serves as a mini-office, which brings more clutter. There is a sitting room between the bedroom and bathroom and that's where the family computer lives (it's because I didn't share any of the office with the family - it's all mine, baby!). I don't like it there - but will live with it for now.

This is one huge task that I wanted done before my birthday and we did it! One more thing is checked off my list.

No pics because I don't love my room yet - it needs painted. It has such a weird layout that I can't figure out. I need some advice when you come over to visit.

Sale at Stampin' Up!

Online Extravaganza Sale! Products up to 50% off, click here. Plus they have their Clearance Rack with some great deals. I can order anything for you, if you want and save you an additional 20%. I love good deals - they won't last long just until Nov. 30th (I just found this out today)!

They are coming out with these cool new punches that store so nicely and clear mounted stamps!

Great Newlywed Article for Everyone

I came across this article, "For Newlyweds and Their Parents" in the Ensign in 2006 - it is excellent. If you haven't read it lately, it's a quick read and to the point. The first couple paragraphs have been on my mind lately. This same scenario can apply to others in addition to a married couple.

I know that when I have had a "significant disagreement" with another person that I expect that problem to stay between us and not to be share with a third party because as this articles says it: creates a larger problem and there are continued negative feelings from the third party (who was never part of the disagreement to begin with) that continue to be a distress long after the couple (or others) have resolved the problem.

I know at times I have violated this rule. I wish I could go back and erase everything I said because it really isn't their business nor my business to share it with them. But at times we feel so alone and hurt that we don't know who else to turn to.

Here are the first two paragraphs from the article: "I know a couple who recently had a significant disagreement. Things said during the argument hurt both partners. But the problem was compounded when the wife called her parents and told them about the incident. She disclosed details of the argument, as well as some of her husband’s faults. The parents, feeling protective of their daughter, reacted negatively toward their son-in-law. While the wife received comfort and support from her parents, she unwittingly created a larger problem.

Shortly afterward, the husband and wife cooled down, took shared responsibility for the argument, and apologized to each other. They forgave each other and became close again. The negative actions of the day would have been forgotten except for the continued negative feelings of the wife’s parents. Not being part of the “making-up” process between the couple, the parents were still upset with their son-in-law. Their negative feelings toward him continued to be a distress in the marriage long after the couple had resolved the argument." Richard B. Miller, “For Newlyweds and Their Parents,” Ensign, Jan 2006, 27–31

The article continues by talking about:

• Establishing marital boundaries
• Financial independence
• Adult to Adult Relationships- parents and their adult children are on equal footing
• Reciprocity- something I need to work on.
  
• Becoming Independent

I love the points this article brings up, I hope you find it helpful and interesting.

Enjoy Your Blessings

Happy Thanksgiving to You!

My family had our own Thanksgiving Dinner with a huge 22 lb turkey, rosemary mashed potatoes (very yummy), gravy, salad, corn, rolls and pie. We all worked together and enjoyed our simple dinner. I am thankful for all that God has given me, I am truly blessed.

The Search For the Last Minute Recipe

I have been craving a cranberry relish that I made several years ago. I called April because I knew she had the recipe at one time - but of course, I called today, the same day I needed it. So then I decided to bag the idea of finding it and hoping to find it for next year's Thanksgiving.

But as I was searching allrecipes.com for a similar recipe, I found the original recipe called "Holiday Ham Slices" from Taste of Home magazine. I don't know why it is named that, so I am renaming it "My Favorite Cranberry Sauce" - original, huh?

With the turkey still in the oven, I have time to whip this up just in time for our Thanksgiving Dinner. (Although the sauce was originally made for ham, it's great on turkey, too!)

Glenn at The Villages

If you weren't able to join Glenn at The Villages in Florida, then you can listen to his message on youtube. There are six segments, however in Part 1, he arrives at the very end of the segment (so just forward it to the last minute or so). I was gone for a few days earlier in the week, so I am just now catching up.

Can You Tell We Had a Great Time?

Paul and I enjoyed our get away from home, it was a nice break from the "norm".

Vivian enjoyed collecting pine cones with me! She also found the snowman that Braden and Logan left behind from there stay last week at the cabin.

Olivia called herself the "Snow Queen" of the pile of snow at Tamarack. She also enjoyed sledding down the stairs of the cabin (they packed them with snow).

Porter loves sledding with speed! He also wanted to make an igloo for all of us to sleep in but fortunately for us, the snow wasn't packing snow!

Corbin enjoyed his sledding adventures, also. He really likes his new hat! He also likes hiding on the cabin deck and throwing snowballs at people below- watch out.

At Tamarack

This was our first time to Tamarack- what a beautiful resort. I wish I would have taken more pictures for you to see. It is a ghost town - everything is there but nothing is in operation (it is in bankruptcy). We were virtually alone. The boys hiked around looking for a better sledding hill, while us girls were content with a smaller hill and a big pile of plowed snow.

Olivia really wanted the ski lift to work -she wanted a ride!

We Get Away Together

The Winwards and Richaels take a trip together - our first one! We were blessed with the opportunity to stay at the Jarvis' cabin in Donnelley on Lake Cascade. The scenery was beautiful, the sledding was adventurous (we left without any accidents, but had a few near misses), the swing was fun, the food was delicious, and the memories are priceless.

We were so happy to find a few inches of snow, especially after packing all of our snow gear- which took up half the van!


Sledding fun - we all had a great time. The guys helped make breakfast - look at them in the kitchen. They were very opposed to cooperating for a photo (I think because they knew it would end up here!)

The adults get away for a walk down to the state park. The guys had a great time throwing large rocks into the ice covered lake. It would make this strange sound that vibrated through the ice. I took lots of photos and we walked around the shoreline back to the cabin (the water was low enough). That was our time away from the kids!

Creamers Galore

I buy hot chocolate mix in bulk (from the LDS cannery). I probably have 1-2 years worth because I love this during the winter especially. So to go with my hot chocolate we have a wide range of creamers in the fridge. Besides these four flavors we also have a vanilla creamer. Spice up your hot chocolate with a wide range of flavors! I love buying these when they are on sale and I have a coupon.

P.S. (I'm not a coffee drinker- just to be clear.)

Breakfast Casserole

I made another recipe out of my newest cookbook! Read back a few days if you don't know what I'm talking about.

Yesterday I made this for our family and another ward family that we took dinner to (they enjoyed it too, and want the recipe). Here's the recipe.

Vivian Goes to "Builder Bear"

Vivian decided that it was her turn to go to Builder Bear (as she calls it). So off we went just the two of us to the mall to create her pet. She had a hard decision to make between a puppy and a turkey, like Olivia's. In the end, she chose the puppy and named her Bowey with a nickname of Buttercup.

She sleeps with Bowey and takes good care of her. She hopes to return to Builder Bear to buy her some more clothes and a purse!

Tamales

For years I have been wanting to learn how to make homemade tamales because we all love them. During the summer our weekly ritual was to buy tamales from a Farmer's Market - the girls are sad that it is winter because they enjoyed that Saturday outing.

But with the help of my new cookbook, "The Worldwide Ward Cookbook" and YouTube, I learned how to make my own. I watched a few videos to gather hints before I embarked on this new adventure. After some work and a huge mess in my kitchen, I made enough for my family to enjoy for dinner last night. Paul said they were the "best he has ever had." Really?! Everyone loved them. Even Vivian decided last night to try them for the first time because she was hearing positive feedback from everyone else. Now we are all lovers of tamales!

P.S. Today I made another 3 dozen tamales for a total of 4 1/ dozen! Today I just had to finish assembling them and then I steamed, cooled and put them in the freezer.

Watch Bands

Last night I attended another ward's "Fun Friday" (another name for a Super Saturday held on Friday night). I was so excited to attend because I wanted to learn how to make the cool beaded watch bands. Look at the pile of beads that I made into a watch band. Of course on my first one, I basically followed the "model band" and just mixed it up a bit.

But then my creativity was let loose. I brought a bracelet that I had purchased for $5.39 (on clearance) and then I took it apart and created a new, totally unique band with turquoise, metal, wood and clear beads (I had to add a few beads to it...but my grand total came to $7.30 for this band! I was so proud of myself. It took a couple times of re-doing it to get it just the way I wanted. I totally forgot to take a picture of the bracelet (before it was cut apart) and then my re-creation to show you what I started with. I was too excited for the end result.

A trip to the Mall

Olivia and I went to the mall last night with her birthday money. When we first arrived she noticed the Cheesecake Factory and said, "Oh, I love cheesecake". So we peeked inside and looked at the display case. We were tempted to buy ourselves a piece (but holy cow $6.95 a slice!) but then decided we would wait for See's Candy.

We walked by Claires and she exclaimed, "that is where I got my ears pierced". So I made her come over by the chair and hold the monkey again so I could catch a photo. I forgot my camera when she got them done. I wish I could have a video because when they shot the earrings in (two at a time) her eyeball just about jumped out of her head!

The next stop was See's Candy - a mall favorite. It is my tradition that I MUST stop here at every mall visit, just for a piece of chocolate. Actually it's two pieces because they give you a free sample with every purchase. My kids always look forward to this! Next we walked by the Disney Store, another one of our favorites.

Then we headed to Build A Bear Workshop which was the whole point of this trip! She had been dying to stuff a turkey. We had a ball just the two of us.

Lastly, but not pictured, we stopped at Toys R Us for her to spend her $3 certificate from the birthday club - she choose a couple bags of candy.

Meet Taylor the Turkey

Olivia has been waiting to come stuff this turkey which we saw a couple weeks ago when we made the trip to get her ears pierced. Ever since then she has been begging to return to the mall. She was worried that the turkeys would be gone if Thanksgiving passed by. I tried talking her out of this choice because there are many other cute bears that would actually look better sitting on her bed. But no - it had to be the turkey - which is now named "Taylor" (it's a girl, too).

Taylor has now been rescued from the store (as Olivia explained to me) and now gets to wear a cute little High School Musical t-shirt. Olivia had fun helping stuff her, bathe her, choose a shirt for her, make her birth certificate and even pay for her with her own money (thanks to all the grandparents who send birthday money in the cards - that is the best!).

Taylor even slept with Olivia last night!

P.S. Olivia used a $5 coupon at the store - she is learning how to stretch her money, too! The kids love getting money for bdays and Christmas because they can learn how to shop sales and find what they are looking for all at the same time.

Before and After Pictures II

Update: It's really hard to catch the real color with a camera, but here you can at least see that there is a big difference in the two colors.

BEFORE

AFTER

I started painting last night after the girls went to bed and I was done today by noon! (And no I didn't stay up late - I'm tired at 9:30pm). The pictures don't capture the real color- because the two colors are drastically different from each other and darker in person. The before color paint was a tan with undertones of red and the new color is a darker brown with golden undertones - much nicer with the couches and a warmer feel. I love it! Plus I paid only $2 for the paint (it was a mis-tint that I bought a while ago) and $3.50 for a new roller.

My house seems like paint but is looking better everytime I paint! It's becoming more me. You need to come see my progress.

More Paint!

Well this afternoon I was in a slump so I tried to take a nap. But after laying there 30 minutes and unsuccessfully falling asleep, I thought I should get up and paint my living room! So I first scoured the garage for any paint. Lo and behold, I found a gallon of a great warm golden color. I could not have picked a better color at the paint store, the color got even warmer when I added some chocolate brown to it. (Sometimes I like to mix paints together to create my own color!)

I have part of the room done and it looks fantastic....I can't wait to show you the before and after shots when I am all finished.

The Color Code

I have had this book for probably close to 15 years! I just got it out again; I want to read and study it more in depth. I know that this will help me understand other people's personality and core motives. Take the test and share your results with us! My test showed that I was 51% red, and and it looks like about 35% blue with the rest being a little sliver of yellow and white. Okay...now that I divulged that information to you. What color are you (come on don't be shy)? The test probably took me around 5 minutes. ---Tiff

From the Color Code Website:

Life can be puzzling. People can be puzzling. But above all, your relationships can be most puzzling. Let's face it: All life is about relationships: personally, professionally, and socially.

Do you wonder why some people are so easy to love, work for, and befriend, while constant effort is required to build and maintain a healthy relationship with others? What part do you play in making the relationships in your life work?

Every relationship begins with YOU. Who are you? Do you really understand why you think and behave as you do? Imagine the power of truly knowing yourself, what motivates you, and how you impact the relationships in your life.

The Color Code is the most revolutionary and ACCURATE measurement of your personality available on the market today. Once you have learned the Color Code you will never see yourself or others the same again! The Color Code is your best bet for understanding how to make sense out of life's relationship puzzles.

Click Here to Take the Color Code Personality Test

The Color Code introduces the following four personality "Colors," or driving Core Motives:

• RED (Motive: POWER)—These are the power wielders. Power: the ability to move from point A to point B and get things done, is what motivates and drives these people. They bring great gifts of vision and leadership and generally are responsible, decisive, proactive and assertive. 

• BLUE (Motive: INTIMACY)—These are the do-gooders. Intimacy: connecting, creating quality relationships and having purpose, is what motivates and drives these people. They bring great gifts of quality and service and are generally loyal, sincere, and thoughtful.

• WHITE (Motive: PEACE)—These are the peacekeepers. Peace: the ability to stay calm and balanced even in the midst of conflict, is what motivates and drives these people. They bring great gifts of clarity and tolerance and are generally kind, adaptable, and good-listeners.

• YELLOW (Motive: Fun)—These are the fun lovers. Fun: the joy of living life “in the moment”, is what motivates and drives these people. They bring great gifts of enthusiasm and optimism and are generally charismatic, spontaneous, and sociable.


What "Color" are you?

Taking this profile will enable you to:

• Determine your own "Color," or driving Core Motive, in less than 15 minutes.
• "Speak the Language" of others by identifying their Color, or driving Core Motive (TheColorCode.com allows you to invite as many of your friends, family, and co-workers to take the profile as well).
• Build stronger and more meaningful relationships by understanding what drives people and their behavior.

Please Check Your Settings- Updated

I am reposting this because many of you need to change your settings. When I read your comments (in my email inbox) I am unable to respond directly to your comment because it doesn't give me your email address. Please take a minute and follow these directions. If it doesn't make sense, leave me a comment and I will help you.----I am begging you! :-) Thanks so much, Tiffani

P.S. - I just left a comment about how you can still keep your email information confidential from those you choose not to share it with and still use this cool option for those who are your friends and family! Read the comments for more info.


Okay, you know how I keep hassling you to change your settings so that I can respond to your comments via email? Well all this time I was doing it wrong! This is how to make the change:

• Go to your Blogger Dashboard
  

• Then Click Edit Profile

• Under the Privacy tab - click the box "Show my Email"

• And under the Identity tab - make sure you have your email address in the box.

And Walaa - it should work! Thank you Marne for helping me!

Sarah Palin on Oprah

If you missed the Oprah show yesterday, here is the link so you can catch up.

ALSO

Sarah Palin will sit down for an interview with ABC News' Barbara Walters that will air on "Good Morning America" beginning on Nov. 17 — the official release date of Palin's book "Going Rogue: An American Life."

Portions of the five-part interview also will appear on ABC's "Nightline" and "20/20."

Palin will discuss her political life as governor of Alaska and Sen. John McCain's running mate in the 2008 presidential election, as well as her private life, according to ABC News.

Palin is scheduled to be interviewed by Oprah Winfrey on Nov. 16, and she will appear on Sean Hannity's show on Fox News on Nov. 18.

Principles of Liberty in our Founding Documents

I found this in my inbox today. I thought you would enjoy reading this, especially if you have read the 5000 Year Leap recently. I have two extra copies from all my ordering if you want one...they were $6.40 each (that's with shipping included). Tiff

Those who are familiar with the 28 Principles of Liberty outlined in The 5000 Year Leap, are acquainted with the claim that these are the principles upon which the Founders based our new government, thereby assuring us of lasting peace , prosperity, and freedom. Occasionally the question is asked, “Where can we find these principles in our founding documents?” This letter will help the reader make that connection.

First, however, one point needs to be made clear. There is a notion today that the Declaration of Independence is not really a part of American jurisprudence and that the principles contained therein cannot be referred to as a basis of American law. This line of thought is usually concluded by saying that if a principle cannot be found in the Constitution, such as a belief in a Creator, it is not part of American culture or law. This idea is blatantly false. The Declaration of Independence has been repeatedly cited by the Supreme Court as part of the fundamental law of the United States of America . (See John Eidsmoe, Christianity and the Constitution , pages 360-362)

The following, then, are some of the ways in which the 28 Principles of Liberty were emphasized as the Founders structured our government.

Principle 1. The only reliable basis for sound government and just human relations is Natural Law. Natural law was defined as the order in which the Creator made everything work properly. There are certain laws which govern the entire universe, and just as Thomas Jefferson said in the Declaration of Independence, there are laws which govern in the affairs of men which are "the laws of nature and of nature's God." If governments and human relationships are formed according to these laws, they will succeed, if not, they will surely fail, as history has proven. (First paragraph of the Declaration of Independence.)

Principle 2. A free people cannot survive under a republican constitution unless they remain virtuous and morally strong. The Founders knew they could not succeed in this political building without the support of the “Supreme Judge of the world” and without a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence .” They knew this would not happen unless they kept His commandments which amounted to being virtuous and morally strong. (Last paragraph of the Declaration of Independence.)

Principle 3. The most promising method of securing a virtuous and morally stable people is to elect virtuous leaders. No greater case can be made of the damage done to a free people by power-hungry and tyrannical leaders than the long list of abuses Thomas Jefferson listed in the Declaration. While directed at King George, these abuses are typical of leaders who are without virtue and morality. (List of grievances in the Declaration of Independence)

Principle 4. Without religion the government of a free people cannot be maintained. As in Principle 2, the Founders knew they could not succeed in this political building without the support of the “Supreme Judge of the world” and without a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence .” They believed they would have His support and protection if they relied on Him, constantly kept His laws, and taught their children to do likewise. (Last paragraph of the Declaration of Independence.)

Principle 5. All things were created by God, therefore upon Him all mankind are equally dependent, and to Him they are equally responsible. The Founders considered the existence of the Creator as the most fundamental premise underlying all self-evident truth. The words Nature's God, Creator, created, Supreme Judge of the Universe, and Divine Providence are used throughout the Declaration of Independence.

Principle 6. All men are created equal. (An exact quote from the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence)

Principle 7. The proper role of government is to protect equal rights, not provide equal things. “—That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men…” (Second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence)

Principle 8. Men are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights. (Second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence)

Principle 9. To protect man's rights, God has revealed certain principles of divine law. The Founders knew that God had revealed certain laws for human happiness, such as laws against killing, stealing, adultery, lying, coveting, etc. These are reflected in the right of man to form a government to protect his unalienable rights of life, liberty, and property outlined in the Declaration and the Bill of Rights.

Principle 10. The God-given right to govern is vested in the sovereign authority of the whole people. The last paragraph of the Declaration makes it clear that the people as a whole, by their representatives in Congress, have complete authority from the Supreme Judge of the Universe to govern themselves in every way and to take their rightful place among the sovereign peoples of the earth.

Principle 11. The majority of the people may alter or abolish a government which has become tyrannical. The second paragraph of the Declaration makes it clear that the people have a God-given right to throw off dictators and establish a government that will better protect them in their rights.

Principle 12. The United States of America shall be a republic. Article 1.2.1 of the Constitution sets forth the provision that gives the American people the right to vote for their own representatives, thereby making the United States a constitutional republic of the people.

Principle 13. A constitution should be structured to permanently protect the people from the human frailties of their rulers. In forming our government on the basis of Natural Law, the Founders dealt directly with the human nature characteristic that power almost always corrupts. The separation of powers, checks and balances, and limited governmental powers in the Constitution were all methods employed to check the human frailties which result in run-away power. That is why the Constitution will never be obsolete or outdated.

Principle 14. Life and liberty are secure only so long as the right of property is secure. The fifth amendment of the Bill of Rights specifically prohibits the federal government from taking private property of the people for public use without just compensation. It is a recognition of the sacred right to property and that property is really an extension of one's life and liberty.

Principle 15. The highest level of prosperity occurs when there is a free-market economy and a minimum of government regulations. Other than setting up a proper monetary system and ensuring the free flow of commerce between the states, no power is given to congress to regulate economic affairs of the people. It is a manifest intent to keep the federal government completely out of the free-market economy and to leave any needed regulation to the states.

Principle 16. The government should be separated into three branches - legislative, executive, and judicial. Articles I, II, and III of the Constitution create this beautiful separation of powers to prevent the tyranny of consolidated government.

Principle 17. A system of checks and balances should be adopted to prevent the abuse of power. This constitutional system of pitting human nature against human nature by checking each other's power is pure genius.

Principle 18. The unalienable rights of the people are most likely to be preserved if the principles of government are set forth in a written constitution. Of the 200 or so nations on the earth today, about 125 of them have written constitutions. However, ours is the oldest one—one of the youngest nations has the oldest written Constitution. The Founders were the first in modern times to realize that the best way to preserve good government and the rights of the people, is to write them down.

Principle 19. Only limited and carefully defined powers should be delegated to government, all others being retained in the people. Article 1.8 contains the twenty powers delegated to congress; Article II contains the six areas of responsibility of the president; and, Article III contains the eleven kinds of cases assigned to the federal courts. The Tenth Amendment reminds us that all other powers are reserved to the states and the people.

Principle 20. Efficiency and dispatch require government to operate according to the will of the majority, but constitutional provisions must be made to protect the rights of the minority. Article VI declares the Constitution to be the supreme law of the land. If a law is passed which violates the rights of people, it can be declared null and void by the guardians of the Constitution.

Principle 21. Strong local self-government is the keystone to preserving human freedom. The Tenth Amendment leaves most power to govern with the states and local governments. This is where freedom really manifests itself.

Principle 22. A free people should be governed by law and not by the whims of men. The people reserve the right in Article I.1.1 not to be governed by any law not passed by their representatives. Article III gives the power to the judiciary to prevent a citizen from being prosecuted by an unjust law which violates the unalienable rights of the people.

Principle 23. A free society cannot survive as a republic without a broad program of general education. The reaction of King George to the list of grievances in the Declaration of Independence is an example of why tyrants want to keep the people ignorant of their actions. In order to preserve and encourage the sacred right of people to gain knowledge, the Constitution forbids the federal government from involving itself in education of the people. It leaves this responsibility to the states and the people where it can be locally controlled. (Tenth Amendment)

Principle 24. A free people will not survive unless they stay strong. Article 1.8 gives Congress the power to maintain a military.

Principle 25. "Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations - entangling alliances with none." No authority can be found in the Constitution for the United States to tie its sovereignty to any other nation or to give the people's money to foreign rulers.

Principle 26. The core unit which determines the strength of any society is the family; therefore, the government should foster and protect its integrity. No authority can be found in the Constitution to involve the federal government in family affairs. The Founders knew any laws dealing with these kinds of sensitive issues must be kept close to the people, thereby best preserving this most sacred institution.

Principle 27. The burden of debt is as destructive to freedom as subjugation by conquest. Article 1.8 lists “to pay the debts” as the first use of public funds. The Founders considered it immoral to pass debts on to the next generation.

Principle 28. The United States has a manifest destiny to be an example and a blessing to the entire human race. The entire Constitution was intended to be such a model for the world of how a people can govern themselves and thereby enjoy an unlimited amount of freedom, prosperity, and peace. Our greatest export was to be freedom.

As we experience this season of Thanksgiving, let us be thankful that our Founders rooted our wonderful country in solid and lasting principles.

Sincerely,

Earl Taylor, Jr.

Menu Monday

I am back to menu planning again! Yeah....this is part of getting organized before my birthday. Oh, I only have a couple of weeks left and lots of work to do. I am making a couple of extra meals for the freezer to get ready for the holiday break.

Dinner Plans:

• Lasagna (Marne's favorite), bread, salad (make an extra for the freezer)
  

• Homemade Tamales (out of my new cookbook! This will be my first time making them, I will let you know how they turn out- plus I'm going to make some for the freezer), Spanish Rice, veggie

• Chicken and Dumplings (out of my new cookbook), rolls, veggie tray

• Broccoli and Beef stir-fry (April's recipe), rice, egg rolls

• Leftover Night

• Zesty Italian Chicken (crockpot dinner from Tara), rice, salad

• Pizza Night (from the freezer or Papa Murphy's)
  

Another New Cookbook!

I have had my eye on this cookbook so when I saw it at Costco (for a much better price) I had to have it. As I flipped through the pages, I saw a delicious looking photo for Chicken and Dumpling Soup! It was just what I have been looking for. I remember my Grandma Anderson making this for me as a child. I have poured over her recipe books and I can't find her recipe - so this looked like the next best thing (she is in heaven so I can't ask her).

Today I tried a new recipe for breakfast called "Potato Latkes". It was super easy and I had everything on hand. Take a look at it here on our recipe blog. (I can't wait to make my holiday menu now, with this very cool cookbook).

Have you checked out Discount Queens?

This is a great local coupon blog- check it out! I am an author, so look for me every now and then.

P.S. I just saw that Modbe Clothing is going out of business.

Does God Exist?

Check out this short (1 min. 19 sec.) video clip that April shared that answers this question. Thanks April for sharing it.

Corbin Irons

Corbin knows how to iron his own white shirt for church. I don't iron , or I should say it's very rare! I think he may also want to do his own laundry because his new Aeropostale shirt got ruined in the the wash by me. It is cream with big blue lettering. Needless to say, the blue letters bled onto the shirt. Oops. I washed it with the whites in warm water and the tag said it needed to be in cold! I don't read tags, either.

Crafting Together

Paul joined Olivia and I at the Craft Warehouse Open House. We made an ornament and some cute Christmas magnets. Paul was the only male in the make-and-take area and think one out of two in the whole store! Thanks Paul for braving the ladies. We made it out of there without making a purchase -the line was way too long.

Before and After Pictures

Before shot of kitchen and dining area

After! What do you think? I still need to add a decorative elements to the wall.

Before picture of family room - next to kitchen.

After! I just love this color - it's Saltillo made by Kelly Moore Paints. It sure changed the feel of the rooms. I have used this color in three homes now.

Cute Stuff by Becky Higgins

I just saw this fabulous deal - Free Digital Holiday Card Designs (click on the free holiday cards tab)- when I was checking out "Project Life" - a cool scrapbooking kit by Becky Higgins (thanks Marne for the alert). This is a super easy way to get your Christmas cards done.



Also she has this really cool kit, "Project Life". This would be a great project if you want a cute scrapbooking without all the work. In fact it would be fun to get together and do this. Who else is getting one?

Gratitude Day 12

I am thankful:

1- for Fridays (like Tonya).
2- that the kids have friends.
3- that I get to sleep in tomorrow. I already turned of all alarm clocks and tossed out the watch that keeps beeping at 5:30am. I want more sleep tonight.
4- to live in my state.
5- for my new friends that I have met at ballet.
6- to be married. It would be extremely tough being a single mother.
7- for libraries.
8- for scripture that helps keep me on course.
9- to be tall even when it's hard to find clothes!
10- that I had loving elementary teachers.

Don't Compromise Your Values

Gratitude Day 11

I am thankful:

1- for our local cannery.
2- for the fun outing Porter and I enjoyed tonight at Craft Warehouse, Target and Jack-in-the-Box
...okay, my brain is fried because it's late and I can't think anymore.

So I am asking you to speak up and share 1 thing you are thankful for!

Meet Alligator Love

Alligator love is napping on his back - belly up! She even put a little picture by him.

Isn't "Alligator Love" darling? He is Vivian's little green baby that she tenderly cares for. In the picture above, he is resting. He was left napping under a blanket while Vivian was at school. I had to laugh when I saw him there laying in the middle of the floor. She even has a little house that she carries him around in. Last year he was a frequent visitor to preschool. Vivian has other little pets that she also loves - but Alligator Love (yes, that is his full name), comes in first place.

Gratitude Day 10

I am thankful:

1- for the Young Women's Program.
2- that I know I am a daughter of God.
3- for a computer - I wouldn't live without it.
4- for someones gift of kindness to me today.
5- that the house is quiet.
6- that my talk is over.
7- for lots of hugs that I received tonight from young women at my old ward.
8- for paint and color (again)- I started painting today and I'm loving it.
9- that Glenn is back.
10- for Olivia's sweet hug and smile tonight - I could feel her love for me.

Tears of Gratitude & Love

Moments ago as I was working at the computer, tying up loose ends on a talk I am giving tonight at a Young Women's in Excellence program, I was interrupted by the doorbell. A man was at the door holding a beautiful bouquet of white daisies. They were for me! My first thought was "Oh, that is so sweet of Paul to think of me while he is at his conference." I opened the card to find even a sweeter and more timely message from a sibling (or more - I don't know).

Instantly tears filled my eyes, as I felt the love of the giver. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, it was just what I needed today. I love you, too.

Gratitude Day 9

I am thankful:

1- for Paul. He really is my best friend.
2- for beautiful colors, I bought some paint today!
3- that we made the bus again! I was playing chess with Porter and we lost track of time.
4- for some new friends that invited me to their ward's Super Saturday - our ward doesn't have them. I'm making a chunky bracelet watch!
5- that Paul is learning valuable information.
6- that Luanne takes good care of Dad. She's got her hands full with him :-) Love ya.
7- that Olivia gets to attend Achievement Days now.
8- that the kids are good about bedtime. I think they are exhausted because they get up at 6 am, while Corbin gets up at 5:30 am.
9- that Christmas is around the corner. I love decorating---just bummed that my 12 ft Christmas tree won't fit in this house.
10- for Redbox.

How Does She

"HowDoesShe.com just launched their website! It is amazing! If you are always asking yourself "How Does She do this, or How Does She do that?" this site is for you. It gathers inspirational ideas from all of the incredible women around us." --quoted from Discount Queens

I have looked around the website and think it is nicely put together. They have some cute neighbor gift ideas and a link to get a free canvas with your photograph.

Gratitude Day 8

"Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone."

G. B. Stern

I am thankful:

1- for Albertsons "It's my store" - I loved that logo.
2- for garage door openers that work all the time.
3- for people who listen and understand.
4- that we didn't miss the bus today (I was chatting to Paul on the phone).
5- that I found freezer room for my 20 containers of Breyers icecream.
6- for my temple marriage.
7- for phone calls - I love to chat.
8- for a lady at the YMCA that introduced herself to me (she is in my new ward).
9- for a gas cooktop - I love them.
10- for my children.

Gratitude Day 7

"Joy and happiness are born of gratitude."

Gordon T. Watts, Ensign, Nov. 1998, 83–84

I am thankful:

1- Vivian says, "for Jesus because he is the nicest".
2- for digital cameras.
3- for people that made Olivia's day special.
4- for a good ward.
5- for my callings - Sunbeam Teacher and Provident Living Specialist.
6- for the Ensign (Conference Edition) that I just received in the mail.
7- for the faith of the pioneers.
8- that America is waking up and fighting for her freedom.
9- for the talks in church about adversity.
10- for people who leave me comments, even if I don't know you!

Happy Birthday Olivia!

Olivia, we love you!

Olivia celebrated with two birthday cakes - one homemade cake and one chocolate lovers cake that Tisha brought over! We have had a lot of sugar here. We started off the day with a birthday breakfast that Olivia requested - scrambled eggs with bacon, bacon slices, biscuits and gravy, and apple juice.

Olivia was excited to open their gifts. Vivian gave her two flat marbles and tiny card, Porter made her 8 paper airplanes (they are in the box) and a paper hat, Corbin gave her a really cool quartz rock. She was thrilled to get a High School Musical hat, two dolls (Troy and Gabriella), and journal (along with getting her ears pierced). She loved all the cards relatives sent and the money in the grandparent cards!

She had to have her hair pulled back for church so that everyone could see her earrings! And Vivian had to wear her new clip-on earrings to church, also!