Yes! I got a 2nd Fridge, Finally!

A week or so ago, I begged Paul again for a second fridge (one for the garage). I have gone since this Sept. (since we moved here) without two fridges and have barely survived! I said that I would get the garage all organized and then reward myself with a fridge.

I got a little bit carried away and found one today for only $20! Actually the fridge was free - but I asked him if he could deliver it for $20! Sometimes I wish I had a truck and trailer! But still it was worth the small deliver fee. It is a much older fridge, but they say it works! Anything is better than nothing, if it works, right?

I have to confess that I didn't keep my deal. I wasn't planning on finding a fridge for such a great price yet. I sort of happened upon this deal. The garage is in desperate need of a few hours. Now I better show Paul that I will get it clean!

Preparing for General Conference and Fun Links

I found this list of ways to prepare for conference (from this blog). We are going to talk about this at FHE tonight.

A list of ideas for preparing for General Conference to get the most out of it:

1. Make a list of specific questions or issues you're working on and would like help with.
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 without looking around for what to wear. 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.

You can gather great ideas from SugarDoodle on fun coloring sheets, bingo, activities, & more.

Click here for 2010 Conference packets for primary and youth.

Click here for more Conference links, the ideas are endless!

Here is the conference box I made for my family last year. I still have it in the closet so I don't have to redo the bingo cards. I buy cute little notebooks at Michael's, add some gum and candy and we are ready!

Here is a "conference kit" that I made this morning for my visiting teachers! Here is the link to make these, they even have the handout ready to print!

Prophets in the Land Again!

Today in sacrament meeting we were asked (by request of our Stake President) to begin preparing for General Conference by reading the talk "Prophets in the Land Again" by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (Oct. 2006 General Conference). It is a powerful talk. I am thankful to be led by a prophet today, I know he is a man of God.

Elder Holland gives three reasons why we hold General Conference, they are:

First, they declare eagerly and unequivocally that there is again a living prophet on the earth speaking in the name of the Lord. And how we need such guidance! Our times are turbulent and difficult. We see wars internationally and distress domestically. Neighbors all around us face personal heartaches and family sorrows. Legions know fear and troubles of a hundred kinds. This reminds us that when those mists of darkness enveloped the travelers in Lehi's vision of the tree of life, it enveloped all of the participants—the righteous as well as the unrighteous, the young along with the elderly, the new convert and seasoned member alike. In that allegory all face opposition and travail, and only the rod of iron—the declared word of God—can bring them safely through. We all need that rod. We all need that word. No one is safe without it, for in its absence any can "[fall] away into forbidden paths and [be] lost," as the record says. How grateful we are to have heard God's voice and felt the strength of that iron rod in this conference these past two days.

Not often but over the years some sources have suggested that the Brethren are out of touch in their declarations, that they don't know the issues, that some of their policies and practices are out-of-date, not relevant to our times.

As the least of those who have been sustained by you to witness the guidance of this Church firsthand, I say with all the fervor of my soul that never in my personal or professional life have I ever associated with any group who are so in touch, who know so profoundly the issues facing us, who look so deeply into the old, stay so open to the new, and weigh so carefully, thoughtfully, and prayerfully everything in between. I testify that the grasp this body of men and women have of moral and societal issues exceeds that of any think tank or brain trust of comparable endeavor of which I know anywhere on the earth. I bear personal witness of how thoroughly good they are, of how hard they work, and how humbly they live. It is no trivial matter for this Church to declare to the world prophecy, seership, and revelation, but we do declare it. It is true light shining in a dark world, and it shines from these proceedings.

Secondly, each of these conferences marks a call to action not only in our own lives but also on behalf of others around us, those who are of our own family and faith and those who are not. This morning President Hinckley movingly reminded us that this is the 150th anniversary of those handcart companies that, as general conference was convening in October of 1856 here in the Salt Lake Valley, were staggering through the last freezing miles of Nebraska and were soon to be stranded in the impassable snows of the high country of Wyoming. He quoted to us President Brigham Young's inspiring general conference message to the Saints, simply "go and bring in those people now on the plains."

As surely as the rescue of those in need was the general conference theme of October 1856, so too is it the theme of this conference and last conference and the one to come next spring. It may not be blizzards and frozen-earth burials that we face this conference, but the needy are still out there—the poor and the weary, the discouraged and downhearted, those "[falling] away into [the] forbidden paths" we mentioned earlier, and multitudes who are "kept from the truth because they know not where to find it." They are all out there with feeble knees, hands that hang down,⁷ and bad weather setting in. They can be rescued only by those who have more and know more and can help more. And don't worry about asking, "Where are they?" They are everywhere, on our right hand and on our left, in our neighborhoods and in the workplace, in every community and county and nation of this world. Take your team and wagon; load it with your love, your testimony, and a spiritual sack of flour; then drive in any direction. The Lord will lead you to those in need if you will but embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ that has been taught in this conference. Open your heart and your hand to those trapped in the twenty-first century's equivalent of Martin's Cove and Devil's Gate. In doing so we honor the Master's repeated plea on behalf of lost sheep and lost coins and lost souls.⁸

Lastly, a general conference of the Church is a declaration to all the world that Jesus is the Christ, that He and His Father, the God and Father of us all, appeared to the boy prophet Joseph Smith in fulfillment of that ancient promise that the resurrected Jesus of Nazareth would again restore His Church on earth and again "come in like manner as [those Judean Saints had] seen him [ascend] into heaven."⁹ This conference and every other conference like it is a declaration that He condescended to come to earth in poverty and humility, to face sorrow and rejection, disappointment and death in order that we might be saved from those very fates as our eternity unfolds, that "with his stripes we are healed."¹⁰ This conference proclaims to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people the loving Messianic promise that "his mercy endureth for ever."¹¹

To all of you who think you are lost or without hope, or who think you have done too much that was too wrong for too long, to every one of you who worry that you are stranded somewhere on the wintry plains of life and have wrecked your handcart in the process, this conference calls out Jehovah's unrelenting refrain, "[My] hand is stretched out still."¹² "I shall lengthen out mine arm unto them," He said, "[and even if they] deny me; nevertheless, I will be merciful unto them, . . . if they will repent and come unto me; for mine arm is lengthened out all the day long, saith the Lord God of Hosts."¹³ His mercy endureth forever, and His hand is stretched out still. His is the pure love of Christ, the charity that never faileth, that compassion which endures even when all other strength disappears.¹⁴

I testify of this reaching, rescuing, merciful Jesus, that this is His redeeming Church based on His redeeming love, and that, as those in the Book of Mormon declared, "there came prophets among the people, who were sent from the Lord [to speak it]. . . . [Yea] there came prophets in the land again."¹⁵ I testify that President Gordon B. Hinckley is in every way, from head to toe, such a prophet, one whose life and voice we cherish and for whom we have prayed so much. He will now conclude this semiannual gathering. For such a blessing—and all these blessings and so many more—I give personal thanks at general conference time, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

from Tiffani: I like this quote from earlier in his talk, "As Latter-day Saints, wherever we are or whatever we are doing, we stop and listen." I encourage you to prepare yourself and your family for the messages that we will hear next Saturday and Sunday from our living prophets (on TV, radio, or live from here).

I was tagged!

My sister, Tara, tagged me to write a few things about myself. Here goes:

4 shows I like to watch...
1. Glenn Beck
2. Any HGTV/TLC decorating show (while I am at the gym)
3. (we have no cable TV)
4. ...I watch NOTHING at home!

4 things I am passionate about...
1. Being a better mom and wife
2. Food Storage and provident living
3. Garage sales, good deals, couponing,
4. Family, Gospel, Temple, my callings

4 phrases I say a lot...
1. OK
2. Please be quiet.
3. If there is a will, there is a way.
4. Please be responsible for your actions.

4 things I have learned from the past...
1. That Heavenly Father knows what is best for me when I can't see it at the moment.
2. There is power in prayer.
3. That a rested mom makes for a happier family!
4. Friends come and go...this is hard for me to take sometimes. I want to keep all my friends forever, but it doesn't always work out that way.

4 places I want to go...
1. Washington D.C. for Restoring America Rally
2. Church History sites
3. Anywhere warm and alone with Paul
4. Disney Cruise (ditto Tara) - I know the whole family would love this. Now I just need to convince Paul.

4 things I did yesterday...
1. Went to the gym
2. Attended a class about keeping my house in order.
3. Made cookies for the kids.
4. Couple batches of laundry.

4 things I am looking forward to...
1. Warmer weather
2. Going to the Oregon coast later this summer with friends.
3. Having a clean, organized garage that doesn't embarrass me when the garage door opens!
4. The second coming of Christ. I know that sounds cheesy, but I look forward to this.

4 things I love about Winter...
1. Hot Chocolate with my many creamer flavors and biscotti
2. Sledding behind four-wheelers
3. More baking - gingerbread houses, goodies, soups, bread, etc.
4. Christmas

4 things on my wish list...
1. Know how to use my DSLR camera
2. Organize craft room and create more often
3. Teach the kids how to cook
4. That America makes it through these tough times - I pray often for our country and leaders.

4 people I am tagging... (please leave me a note so I go read your responses)
1. Jody
2. April
3. Marne
4. a mystery person...anyone who reads my blog!

Even if you weren't tagged, I would love to read your responses!

Food Storage Finds

Today I took a trip to Costco for sweet peas, the girls have been begging for them. But it turned into a food storage adventure. I found a cook camp oven that I thought would be nice to have.

Here is what I found at Costco:

• 45 lb. Lehi Roller Hard White Wheat in Bucket $14.99 (great price- 15.89 with tax) That would be equivalent to 8 cans from the cannery which would total $20.80. The advantage is that it is already vacuum packed and ready to store!
  

• Stainless Steel Portable Camp Oven with two burners $149.99 (runs off propane gas!)
  

• 25 lb. All purpose flour $5.99

• 25 lb. Sugar $14.44

• 32 oz. Red Star Active yeast $3.89 (I store my extra bags of unopened yeast in the bottom of my freezer).

At Walmart I found some dehydrated food items - I think it is on the end cap of isle #21 (if I remember correctly).
These items are in #10 cans (like the cans from the cannery).

I bought these two cans to have on hand for cooking - I love dehydrated onions for cooking also.

• Whole egg $19.58
• Red & Green Peppers $10.22
• Celery $11.78
  
• Raspberries $27.87
• Strawberries $20.18
• Onions $12.12 (half that price at cannery)
• Blueberries $25.23
  
• Country Fresh Instant Milk $9.67

These next items were in 6 gallon buckets:

• 14 lb. banana slices 28.16 (that is $.50/lb)
• 44 lb white rice $38.72 (cheaper at cannery - at .$.56/lb instead of $.88 lb)
• Wheat 45 lb. $15.22

So you are probably asking, how do these prices compare to the cannery?

The cannery prices are probably the best prices you will find overall, simply because they don't make a profit like the stores. You may find that in a few items you can find a better price, but then you have to dry pack it at home. I personally like dry packing my food at the cannery and leaving/cleaning up the mess there! The cannery carries the very basic long-term storage food items. I would first focus on the basic needs before I think about adding more expensive luxury items.


#10 can prices:
Black Beans $4.45
Pinto Beans $4.65
White Beans $4.25
Non fat dry milk $7.05
White rice $3.20
Granulated sugar $4.65 (I like to store my sugar in 5 or 6 gallon buckets)
Hard red wheat $2.70
Hard White wheat $2.60
Apple slices $4.90 (Great snack for kids)
Carrots $7.10
Macaroni $3.30
Quick Oats $2.10
Regular oats $2.10
Dry onions $6.00 (I use this ALL the time - love it)
Potato flakes $2.85
Spaghetti (in pouch not can) $3.75
Refried Beans $3.75
Hot Cocoa Mix $6.60 (This is a family favorite)
White flour $3.05 (I store my flour in buckets, too)
Drink Mix $6.90

They also have these products available in bulk (ex. 25 lb. bags) that you can purchase anytime without an appointment. If you would like help getting to the cannery, give me a call!

How much do I need?

If you are curious how much your family needs you can go to the church website http://www.providentliving.org/channel/0,11677,1706-1,00.html and read more information. They have a calculator - but it is very broad and only calculates how many pounds total of grains and legumes. So I found another food storage calculator http://lds.about.com/library/bl/faq/blcalculator.htm that is a little more specific and helpful. I calculated all my family members as adults so I would have enough as they grew - but you can factor in their age if you would like.

Photography Tips

I came across a post at the blog "feathers, freesia & fishing tackle" about the different photography tips that she learned while taking a photography class. Check it out to learn some rules and tips of photography.

I also bought some great books over a year ago from Amazon - The Digital Photography Book Volume 1 and Volume 2 by Scott Kelby. (Iam just barely opening them as I am typing). I found these books at the library and read the first volume after waiting weeks. They are now offered at Costco. I just realized that now there is a volume 3, hum....I wonder if that is at Costco also. If anyone knows please leave a comment.

Week One: Shutter Speed

This picture was taken at 1/200th shutter speed - see the blur of the ball.

But when taken at 1/500th, the ball and movement are clearer!

Week One:

Oops, we have a little tummy showing! Here is a picture that I took with my DSLR of Olivia jumping into the air. We are learning about shutter speed in class. This pictures was taken at a speed of 1/500 of a second. It's fun to learn how to use my camera - I'm excited to catch some pictures of Porter at soccer practice today.

Can you believe that I am finally using my new camera that has been boxed up for probably three years?

Please Check Your Settings

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

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!

April's ffff - A Campaign Begins Today

April, I love that you posted this ffff "Fight for Freedom Friday" post even if it was Monday! I love the words of Mitt Romney :

"A Campaign Begins Today" by Mitt Romney

"America has just witnessed an unconscionable abuse of power. President Obama has betrayed his oath to the nation — rather than bringing us together, ushering in a new kind of politics, and rising above raw partisanship, he has succumbed to the lowest denominator of incumbent power: justifying the means by extolling the ends. He promised better; we deserved better.

He calls his accomplishment “historic” — in this he is correct, although not for the reason he intends. Rather, it is an historic usurpation of the legislative process — he unleashed the nuclear option, enlisted not a single Republican vote in either chamber, bribed reluctant members of his own party, paid-off his union backers, scapegoated insurers, and justified his act with patently fraudulent accounting. What Barack Obama has ushered into the American political landscape is not good for our country; in the words of an ancient maxim, “what starts twisted, ends twisted.”

His health-care bill is unhealthy for America. It raises taxes, slashes the more private side of Medicare, installs price controls, and puts a new federal bureaucracy in charge of health care. It will create a new entitlement even as the ones we already have are bankrupt. For these reasons and more, the act should be repealed. That campaign begins today."

— Mitt Romney is the former governor of Massachusetts and author of No Apology.

Click here to read the rest of April's ffff post.

Menu Monday

Oh, what should I make this week? I have been getting by pretty well by just winging it, but things are going to pick up the pace a bit since we add soccer to our daily schedule this week with both boys participating.

So here is my menu plan :



Honey Lime Enchiladas (very good)


Ham and Bean Soup (I'm trying this recipe from April)-VERY GOOD, we all loved it!

Linguine with Clam Sauce (Paul will be happy, we haven't had this in ages)

Clam Chowder in bread bowls (dehydrated mix from Knorr that we love), veggies


Pepperoni Pizza Twist (kids love this!)

Health Care Vote Passed

I don't want television on Sunday, but yesterday was an exception as I watched for hours (yes, I got sucked in) as the House discussed the health care bill and then passed it with a difference of 9 votes. Oh, this makes me sick that our representatives are not listening to the American people. Every poll showed that we did not want this bill. This is historic - and I am worried what is next for our country. I like when John Boehner (R-OH), House Minority Leader shared his powerful message. Below is a clip of what he said.

Fluffed Animal Photo Shoot

I gave Olivia my camera yesterday and she came back with these photos of her and Vivian's stuffed animals, or as they say "fluffed animals".

They pick an animal or two every night as they get in bed to sleep with them.
Often I get reminded by Vivian to be quiet because her animals are sleeping. Oh, I love these sweet memories. Our house is full of "rescued pets" - we surely don't need anymore!

Look What Smokey Brings Us

Corbin woke up from his Sunday nap to Smokey meowing loudly by the door. Look at what Smokey had to show him - a large, hairy mouse laying on his back near the front door! At least he is in one piece....gross. I guess Smokey loves us because he keeps bringing us unwanted gifts. He does bring much joy to our family and for that we enjoy having him in our lives.

Be Careful with Rats, Smokey!

This is Vivian talking to Smokey after he ate the mouse, which she later calls a rat.

More Local Classes and Products

I just dropped into Food 2 Store for the first time today. I was pleasantly surprised that they carry a variety of items. One thing I learned is that they teach various classes free of charge. The next class they are offering is a Dutch Oven workshop March 25th at 7pm.

They will be teaching how to use food storage items in a Dutch Oven (freeze dried or dehydrated foods). If you would like to attend, you need to RSVP to the store so they can have enough food samples for everyone.

He even mentioned that they will come teach Relief Society Meetings (aka Enrichment). I think they would be a great resource, I plan on using them in the future.

Drop into the store and sign up for their email notifications, so you will receive information about their next class!

Smokey Catches a Mouse

One morning Paul was about to let Smokey in the house. As he was opening the sliding door, Smokey saw a little mouse resting near the door mat. Oh, the game was on. Smokey caught that mouse and then had fun playing with it. This is the last of his "play" before he devoured the pour thing for his breakfast! Yuck!



After Smokey was done with the mouse. He wanted to come into the house. He was begging by standing with his front paws on the glass door. But I didn't want him to roam around and infect everything with mouse germs. So I opted to give him a shower and shampoo his paws and fur.

Wheat Grinder Special and Class Schedule

Yesterday I took the milk class and left full of useful information. I am excited to put my new knowledge to work. There is a little cookbook with all the class recipes if you are interested (they sell for $10). I can pick one up for you next week or she will mail them out to you with an extra $2 for shipping. Tiffani

Wheat Grinder:

If anyone is looking for a wheat grinder, this one may work for you. Blendtec sells a wheat grinder (you may have seen the flyer at the cannery about this grinder) that they are offering at an extra great group rate of $150.00 (that price already includes sales tax.) Mary Ann Wilcox has offered to pick up the orders in Utah, which saves each person $18 in shipping costs. She needs any orders and payment prior to March 22nd. She plans on picking them up during spring break. This is a great price, better than the group rate that you can get from the cannery flyer. If anyone is interested, please contact me if you are interested.. Here is a link to the Blendtech site for more information about the blender and pictures.-

Provident Living Classes:

Mary Ann Wilcox teaches a variety of classes in her home. Today I took her class "Make it With Milk" and learned how to use dry milk from the cannery to make yogurt, cream cheese, sour cream, evaporated milk, condensed milk, ice-cream and how to use it in many other recipes. We were able to taste the many things that she made, oh it was delicious! I'm excited to put my learning to use. To sign up for a class, just email me and I will give you her phone number. Space is limited so reservations are needed.

There are more classes that are being offered - take a look at the list below. The classes are each $5.

March 25th- Clean House in 45 minutes a Day (9am-noon or 7-10 pm) This class focuses on setting up time saving routines that will streamline your cleaning activities while providing a laboratory for learning industry, character and service. Anti-clutter principles, and systems for handling laundry, home maintenance and deep cleaning will be presented. (I am signed up to attend).

April 8th - Emergency Living (9am-noon or 7-10 pm) How would your family adapt to living in quarantine for several weeks or months, or stay in your home after a national disaster until utilities and water are restored? Come learn what you need to survive, how to conserve your resources and use alternative methods of cooking and providing heat and light.

April 15th - Gluten - Meat from Wheat (10 am - noon or 7-9pm) Learn how to make gluten from wheat flour and use it in your own recipes. Hamburger, sausage, beef jerky, roasts and steaks are gluten products that will be demonstrated and sampled. Gluten is easy to make, a great meat substitute and extremely economical. One pound of cooked (gluten) hamburger costs 14 cents.

April 22- Alternative Cooking Methods (9 am - noon or 7 - 10pm) Learn how to create a solar oven, a slow cooker and a tin can stove top.

May 13th - Cooking from Your Car (10am - noon or 7-9 pm) Learn how to prepare camping, vacationing and in route meals from the convenience of your car, with appliances that can be plugged into your cars 12 volt power source, or used on your propane stove. A variety of menus and cooking methods will be demonstrated, along with a check list of basic food items from food storage, and equipment for a quick and hassle free getaway. This information also applies to cooking needs during a disaster evacuation.

May 20th - Grains (10-noon or 7-9 pm) Learn how to make whole wheat bread that rivals store bought in texture and taste; muffins, biscuits, pita bread, bagels, crackers, tortillas and hot & cold cereals.

May 27th - Summer Fun WITHOUT Breaking a Sweat (9 am - noon or 7-10 pm) Organize now for a carefree and fun-filled summer. Learn how to plan for every outdoor experience that opportunity affords you, with a minimum of equipment, preparation time, and plenty of food for a full day or weekend experience. Is money an issue? Attend this class and receive a list and directions to great places to go where the only cost is a little imagination, an eye for adventure, gas to take you within 50 miles of Boise, and food for the days you’ll be gone. This class will help you make this summer one that your children or grand-children of all ages will want to repeat.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

I don't understand why St. Patrick's Day is considered a holiday. I just read a little about the holiday on wikipedia. St. Patrick was an Saint that was born into a wealthy Romano British family. When he was 16 years old he was kidnapped and taken to Ireland. He then later escaped and continued his education to be a priest. He then later returned to Ireland to preach to the people. It is said that he used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. First the color associated with this saint was blue, but then it changed to green. This holiday has been observed since 1600 and has been believed to be a one day break during Lent. I guess that's why there is all the drinking. I think it is a strange holiday, especially to be observed by so many countries.

The picture didn't capture the green color very well - the syrup was a bright green!

With that said, we still do wear a little green and do a few things with the kids. This morning I made green pancakes served with green syrup. Later I made sugar cookies with green frosting and we enjoyed the traditional meal of corned beef, cabbage, and mashed potatoes.

• The north White House fountain was dyed green in celebration of Saint Patrick's Day in 2009 and 2010.

• The Chicago River is dyed green each year for the St. Patrick's Day celebration, shown here in 2008.

Vivian Is Getting Prepared

Tonight I saw Vivian with a baggie of granola bars. I asked her what she was doing with the food. She replied, "this is my emergency food" which she plans on storing in her room. I also saw her gather at least 6 individual servings of applesauce and a baggy full of cough drops. I guess these three foods are the beginning of her (second) 72 hour pack!

Funny girl, I guess she is learning from her mother to get prepared! She is the one that is usually with me when I grocery shop. This little lady is learning all my tricks.

Today I stocked up on Nabisco saltine crackers. Not that I had to have them, but they will be a nice addition to all my cans of Progresso soup and chili. I bought 30 boxes of crackers for a total of $6.80 ($5 of that was the cost of buying the newspaper for the Albertson's doubler coupons). One more item that I don't have to buy for a year. What's next?

Oh Shoot!

I just got lucky enough to register for this class through Jessica Sprague's website titled "Oh Shoot! Beginning Photography". I tried last time this class was offered to register but it sold out in 10 minutes. Fortunately, Marne and I are both in the class! Finally I will be able to learn how to use the camera that I have owned for a few years that is still in the box! This has been a long time coming. With all these classes that I'm adding to my life, I am going to be busy!

Do you have an SLR that's never left the automatic setting? Do the words aperture and shutter speed send fear to your heart? Join Candice for a 7-week, intensive, instructor-led class. You will receive lesson plans, assignments, and video tutorials, be able to join in live chats with questions, and have your work reviewed by the instructor. You may start out class on automatic but you will leave with an understanding of manual!

Oh Shoot, is a beginning 7-week instructor-led photography online course just for beginning SLR users. In this course Candice Stringham will guide you to a greater knowledge of your camera and how it works. In just 49 days (with a small break in the middle if you need to catch up) you will be well on your way to better understanding of your camera and it's features. This class is PACKED with information, inspiration, and the benefit of a personal tutor as you begin your photography journey.

Let's summarize some of the features of our class:

• I'll walk you through the different modes on your camera and how to use them.
• I'll address basic camera techniques, teach you about finding and using natural light, and composition rules.
• Step-by-step video tutorials let you see and hear the techniques
• You'll get a lesson plan and assignment each week.
• You'll get an email from me 5 days a week for seven weeks (with a small break in the middle for catching up), with encouragement, coupons, and inspiration
• You'll get access to our private class message board, where you can chat with other participants about anything you like
• I'll be available once a week for a class chat to answer any questions about the lesson and assignment from the week.
• You'll get access to our class image gallery, where you can upload your lesson photographs and get praise and feedback from other students and a critique from the instructor
• All of the videos you'll see will be available forever from your course home page at JessicaSprague.com. No expiration, even after the course ends!
• You'll also get a bonus downloadable handout about photography equipment and what to look for when buying cameras, lenses and accessories.

Make it With Milk Class

I am so excited to take a class this Thursday called "Make it With Milk"- for only $5.00. It is a class taught by Mary Ann Wilcox - a lady that is full of information. I will come back with information to share with you! Just last night at a Stake Provident Living Meeting we tasted a delicious yogurt drink - made from yogurt using dry milk from the cannery. You can make a quart of yogurt for only $0.25! I will teach you how step-by-step - it sounded easy to me! Space is still available if you would also like to take this class or classes in the future!

Next week I am taking: Housekeeping -- A Clean House in 45 Minutes a Day

Look below for the classes that Mary Ann teaches:

Emergency Living

Eat Better for Less (3 hrs): A food management plan that will allow you to spend less time grocery shopping and make fewer trips to the store, spend less time in the kitchen (one hour per day total), and prepare well rounded, nutritious meals for less. Class includes meal planning, recipe organization, money saving tips, grocery store & kitchen efficiency.

A Grocery Store in Your Home - Food Storage Basics (2hrs): A food storage plan that is easy to implement for $10 a week. This easy plan addresses individual family eating habits, storage space availability, emergency situations, and cooking styles. The following points will be covered: determining what to store, how much to store, how to store, where to store, and how long you can store; as well as techniques for spending less time shopping, meal planning and preparing food. (Available for Relief Society Enrichment meetings)

Emergency Living (2 hrs): How would your family adapt to living in quarantine for several weeks or months, or stay in your home after a national disaster until utilities and water are restored? Come learn what you need to survive, how to conserve your resources and use alternative methods of cooking and providing heat and light.

Cooking from Your Car (2 hrs): Learn how to prepare camping, vacationing and in route meals from the convenience of your car, with appliances that can be plugged into your cars 12 volt power source, or used on your propane stove. A variety of menus and cooking methods will be demonstrated, along with a check list of basic food items from food storage, and equipment for a quick and hassle free getaway. This information also applies to cooking needs during a disaster evacuation.

Alternative Cooking Methods

These are hands on classes where you will make the stove offered at the class, cook an item to learn how to use the stove and enjoy a tasting table of various items made with the stove. Materials are provided by each attendee. A materials list is emailed with class confirmation. Cooking items and tasting table are included in class fee. These cooking options greatly reduce your cooking fuel needs in an emergency.

Tin Can Stove (3 hrs): A stove top cooker made from a number 10 can with a buddy burner fuel source (tuna fish can lined with cardboard and filled with wax). The top of the can may be used as a griddle or a pan can be placed on top of the can for stove top cooking. Tin can ovens will also be made from additional number 10 cans and used for baking.

Solar Cooker (3 hrs): 2 cardboard boxes (one inside the other) lined with foil, sealed with a glass window that uses the sun as the heat source.

Hay Box Slow Cooker (3 hrs): Any size ice chest lined with a solar blanket and stuffed with shredded paper. Food is brought to a boil on a stove and then placed in the ice chest and covered with shredded paper. The paper thermally cooks the food in 8-10 hours.

Home Management

Clutter-free Living – More Space without Remodeling (3 hrs): Learn principles of organization that can be applied throughout your home in a systematic way that eliminates clutter, saves space and minimizes cleaning. Class includes a “how to” manual, and a home tour showing application of various principles of organization. (Available for Relief Society Enrichment meetings)
Housekeeping -- A Clean House in 45 Minutes a Day (3 hrs): This class focuses on setting up time saving routines that will streamline your cleaning activities while providing a laboratory for learning industry, character and service. Anti-clutter principles, and systems for handling laundry, home maintenance and deep cleaning will be presented.

Financial Freedom -- Getting Down to Business (3 hrs): In order to run a home efficiently, the paper trail needs to be handled like any business. Minimizing the paper shuffle, establishing a filing system, and organizing a functional office space will be emphasized. Learning the philosophy, principles and practices that will allow you to be “debt free on any income” will be also be presented.

Be Prepared for Summer Fun (3 hrs): Organize now for a carefree and fun-filled summer. Learn how to plan for every outdoor experience that opportunity affords you, with a minimum of equipment, preparation time, and plenty of food for a full day or weekend experience. Is money an issue? Attend this class and receive a list and directions to great places to go where the only cost is a little imagination, an eye for adventure, gas to take you within 50 miles of Boise, and food for the days you’ll be gone. This class will help you make this summer one that your children or grand-children of all ages will want to repeat.

A Place for Love & Sharing (3 hrs): The objective of this course is to create a positive atmosphere in the home that will encourage children to cooperate & fulfill the responsibilities that are required to have a home function efficiently. Methods for teaching children to invest in the family, care for personal possessions and learn obedience while building confidence, dependability, initiative and lifetime work ethics will be presented.

A Time & Place for Children to Work (3 hrs): This class will concentrate on assessing a child’s readiness for work, assigning appropriate tasks for their development stage and using methods of teaching that meet the maturity level of each age group.

Cooking with Food Storage

Dairy -- Make it with Milk (2 hrs): Every commercial dairy product can be made with powdered milk at 50-300% savings. Come learn how to mix milk that is comparable to store bought and make yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, hard cheese, cottage cheese, ice cream, frozen yogurt and sweetened condensed milk. This is a taste pleasing class you won’t want to miss. (Available for Relief Society Enrichment meetings)

Gluten – Meat from Wheat (2 hrs): Learn how to make gluten from wheat flour and use it in your own recipes. Hamburger, sausage, beef jerky, roasts and steaks are gluten products that will be demonstrated and sampled. Gluten is easy to make, a great meat substitute and extremely economical. One pound of cooked (gluten) hamburger costs 14 cents.

Grains – Specialty Breads & More (2 hrs): Learn how to make whole wheat bread that rivals store bought in texture and taste; muffins, biscuits, pita bread, bagels, crackers, tortillas and hot & cold cereals.

Substitutions -- This for That (2 hrs): Out of an ingredient you need such as marshmallow cream, Chinese noodles, potato chips, salad dressings, sauces, and condiments? Come learn how to make your own from food storage with little cost in time and money. You’ll also learn how to substitute baking powder, gelatin, cornstarch and soy flour for eggs and how to cook with dehydrated eggs & egg whites. Receive tips on using butter buds in place of butter, applesauce instead of oil, etc.

Sprouting – Soups, Salads & Beans (2 hrs): Soup is the foundation of any food storage program. It is economical, nutritious, delicious, and reduces the number of meat dishes needed in a weekly menu. Learn how to grow and use sprouts in soups & breads, and for salads. Receive recipes to make your own dehydrated soup mixes. Taste a variety of soups that you can dump from several cans, heat & serve or make from dehydrated mixes.

Sour Dough – Everlasting Yeast (2 hrs): Learn how to make and use sour dough start to make breads, biscuits, English muffins, and pancakes. You will receive a start to take home along with a complete recipe book and instructions for caring for your start.

Cooking from the Cannery (2 hrs): The use of wet pack (meats will be emphasized) and dry pack items that can be purchased at the cannery to make a variety of delicious meals, snacks, and side dishes will be demonstrated. This is a great class for increasing your “meals in minutes” repertoire.
Dehydrated Foods - Just Add Water (2 hrs): How to use and prepare meals from dehydrated food products. Dehydrated foods are an important part of a food storage program. Because they are normally packaged in high quality cans they will withstand natural disasters. They contain only 2-3% moisture so they store for long periods of time (up to 50 years), do not need refrigeration, are light weight and easily moved.

Soup – The Best Economical Meals (2 hrs): A steaming kettle of soup adds a bit of old-fashioned magic to the kitchen. It will warm away chilly weather and the aroma brings a busy family to the table quickly. Soup is the foundation of any food storage program. It is economical, nutritious, delicious, and reduces the number of meat dishes needed in a weekly menu. Learn to make homemade soups that you can dump from several cans, heat & serve-- and dehydrated soup mixes that require more extensive cooking

Soybean Success (2 hrs): There are many soybean products on the market today. Learn how to use whole and ground soybeans and soy flour to make soy milk, nuts, and a variety of high-protein dishes.

A Time for Me (3 hrs): It is frustrating to balance the many roles you play (mother, wife, teacher, cook, housekeeper, accountant, nurse, community leader, personnel director, counselor, daughter) and still have time to meet your personal needs and goals. This class focuses on scheduling for success at any energy level and finding personal time to keep your “cup full”.

Lunch at School

Last Friday I caught the tale end of lunch with Olivia and then she scurried off to recess, one of her favorite times of the day. So then I waited another 15 minutes for Porter's class to come to the lunchroom (I surprised him). We enjoyed delicious homemade pizza, salad, and my favorite, chocolate milk. I have been trying to spend more time with my children to show them I love being their mom. Every moment counts!

Twin Falls Temple - Hallie & Brandon's Wedding

I snuck this photo of Gage, he was adamant that I not take his picture!

Our family!

Porter and Braden with identical glasses!

And me loving up Cael! This little man loves photos, he kept smiling for more.

Yesterday we had the opportunity to attend Hallie and Brandon's wedding in the Twin Falls Temple. My heart was full as I saw the happiness in Hallie's face - pure joy!

Homemade Pizza

Vivian helped with dinner Monday night making homemade pizza, something we haven't done in a long time. I made the dough in my breadmaker and I let her loose to add the toppings. She loves to be my helper.

New Hair Color

I got my hair colored a couple weeks ago. It is quite a change from before - more dark added back in with the blonde. I love what Jessica can do with my hair. She takes charge of the unruly, course, thick, curly hair that I have!

This picture was taken inside of Reggie, Paul's car.

Our Celebration of the Family & Our Marriage

I found these gold monogrammed napkins, notebooks and gold stickers that I added to the cups!

The color theme was gold, cream, and a touch of silver.

Yesterday we celebrated 16 years of marriage. At breakfast Olivia asked me when we were going to celebrate. I answered her that Dad and I would celebrate later that evening and that they (the kids) would be staying home. As those words came out of my mouth, the thought of celebrating together as a family came to my mind. And that is when the seed of my fun idea started to sprout. However, I got myself so busy that I really didn't get to act on my thoughts until I left Paul's downtown office at 3pm (a late lunch together - take out from Costa Vida) and hurry to a few stores, take Olivia to dance and pull it all together by 6pm. It was a mad rush!

I was so excited for us all to enjoy our "reception style" dinner and mock wedding cake. In our moves, I found the top of our wedding cake with frosting flowers still in tact. I used on top of our cake - take a look at the 16 year old original! It was a nice evening. The kids loved it all, even down to the bouquet toss at the end.