Fridays with Jim and Ginger

This Friday we took a short trip to Carlsbad to see the flower fields. The Ranuculas were in full bloom. It was just gorgeous. We got out and walked around a little. We didn't go up into the fields because they now charge $10 apiece and I thought that was crazy. So I saved the $20 and bought 3 bouquets for $12. Quite a savings and I get to enjoy them for a week.

It was a gorgeous day and you could see the ocean sparkling in the background when you went to the top of the fields. It really makes you feel like Spring is here.

Do you twitter?

I was wondering if any of you twitter? I have wondered if that is something that would be good for my business or if it is just a waste of time. I have had a hard time getting into facebook, as a matter of fact, I don't do it at all. Any comments?

Making Progress

It has been a miserable few weeks, but I think I am about to the end of it all. All of my tests are in and it looks like I have a giant hiatal hernia. One third of my stomach is in my chest. No wonder I've been hurting. Don't know what the treatment is going to be. I think it's just good to know what it is. The cat scan also showed diverticulitis. So I guess that is going to mean a diet change. I might go to a acupuncturist when I am done with the specialists and see what the ancient Chinese would do. I have 3 weeks until my next DR. appt, so I might try some things on my own. I think once they decided it wasn't cancer the Dr. relaxed and gave me nothing new.

Business is really picking up. I am feeling a little stressed, so much to get done. Most of it's behind the scenes, but really important to do. I am just glad I have work. Our Real Estate market seems to be picking up. I hope it holds for awhile.

If you want to see what's going on in Relief Society check out the blog, societystuff.blogspot.com; we have so many good things going on. Also be sure to try the sauce recipes on it. They are fabulous, especially the salmon and chicken ones. If you haven't tried the chicken salad receipe Lauri posted, give it a try, it's great.

I am really looking forward to Conference weekend. I am going to veg out the entire time.

You might like this.

I thought I would share the beginning of my talk at Enrichment. I think the talk was OK. It was short and sweet. Since we hadn't eaten yet, no one wanted it to last too long. It was really a great night. I have the most amazing enrichment committee. I never have to worry about a thing. They just step up and do it all, and they do it wonderfully well. We had a DVD of the different sisters talking about Relief Society. Our theme was Relief Society and Me. (Does anyone know how to put a DVD on your computer? I want to put it on the RS blog, but have to first put it on my hard drive. Help!). After the program we had a delicious dinner. Laura was in charge of the dinner and hopefully she will put her pasta recipe on her blog. It is a good one to do at home.

Today is my Dr. appointment, can't eat all day. I'm hungry already. So sad.

Here is the beginning of my talk.

M. Russell Ballard "A Woman's Lifeline."
Age 3: She looks at herself and sees a Queen.
Age 8: She looks at herself and sees Cinderella.
Age 15: She looks at herself and sees an Ugly Duckling. ("Mom, I can't go to school looking like this!")
Age 20: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"—but decides she's going out anyway.
Age 30: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"—but decides she doesn't have time to fix it so she's going out anyway.
Age 40: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly"—but says, "At least I am clean," and goes out anyway.
Age 50: She looks at herself and sees "I am what I am" and goes wherever she wants to go.
Age 60: She looks at herself and reminds herself of all the people who can't even see themselves in the mirror anymore. Goes out and conquers the world.
Age 70: She looks at herself and sees wisdom, laughter, and ability. Goes out and enjoys life.
Age 80: Doesn't bother to look. Just puts on a purple hat and goes out to have fun with the world.

I'm Working!

At last! I am finally seeing some action at work! I have alot of things going on ( said with a happy circular hand motion)! I have 2 escrows, and will be listing 3 houses this week. One of the houses has been on the market for 3 months with another Realtor, so I hope it sells. I think if I get them to come down on the price it should sell. It hasn't been like this for a very long time. I am really scrambling to get everything done. And to add to the fun, I have 2 short sales that need immediate attention first thing in the morning. Not to worry, I will get it all done.

Tuesday is our RS Birthday enrichment and I am the concluding speaker. I really need to get my act together for that. I am drawing a blank on this one. I would like to say something meaningful that will add to the meeting, I hate boring. But at this stage of the game I just don't know what to do. I am hoping I will be hit with a lightening bolt and get an idea.

I went to a cooking class last week on sauces, taught by Deborah Haynie. It was so good. I have tried both her salmon and chicken recipes at home and loved it. It was so easy to do, but had a real gourmet taste to it. She also showed us how to do Alfredo sauce and that will be next on my list. I will post the recipes when I get a chance. We have great enrichment activities in our ward. You are really glad you are there.

Other than church and work it is pretty quiet here. I think that is a good thing. I am still having tests done for my tummy. They are going to stick a scope down my gut on Thursday, hope they see something. It is probably just that I need to quit the Diet Coke. I know it is coming, but I am not looking forward to it. I really like my sodas! The Dr. would also like me to lose some weight, I will as soon as I am tired of making Alfredo sauce and salmon and chicken smothered in sauce. It shouldn't be too long.

How to make pie crust

I realized I might have fallen down on the teaching of pie making so I have a tutorial for you. My pies are always the very best and the all time favorite is lemon meringue. I have a step by step slideshow to show you how to make the crust. You can then go to the sidebar for the best recipe ever for lemon meringue. It takes a little bit of time, but it is worth it. You can always freeze the crusts unbaked, thaw bake and add chocolate pudding for a quick easy desert. I hope you give it a try.

Home Cooking Recipes

Here are all the recipes on the sidebar.

Classic French Chicken in White Grape Sauce
2 TBS butter
3 or 4 bone in chicken breasts
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1/2 rib celery, finely chopped
2 oz prosciutto or country ham finely chopped
3/4 cup white grape juice
3/4 cup low salt chicken stock
3 TBSP heavy cream (at room temperature)
Chopped fresh parsley

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook it in the skillet on the skin side to brown it and render the fat from the skin about 15 min. Turn chicken over and cook on the bone side for about 5 min. Remove and save the chicken. Pour off all but 2 TBSP of the fat from the pan. Add the onion, carrot, celery, prosciutto or ham and saute until the onion is browned and the vegetables are softened, 8-10 min. Add the juice and chicken stock to the pan and stir to combine with vegetables. Put the chicken back into the pan. Bring the liquid to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover the skillet with a lid and simmer the chicken in the sauce until cooked through 20 to 25 min. Remove the chicken from the pan, turn the heat to high and bring the liquid to a boil. Reduce the volume of liquid by half, about 5 min. (6-7 min. for a thicker sauce). Add the cream, stir to combin and remove the pan from the heat. Pour sauce over chicken and sprinkle with the chopped parsley. Great served with mashed potatoes.


Lemon Meringue Pie
Pie Crust
2 cups flour
3/4 tsp. salt
3/4 cup shortening
6 TBSP. water (the colder, the better)

Your crust will be more flaky if all ingredients are coldMix flour and salt together and cut in shortening with pastry cutter. Add water, one tablespoon at a time. Stir with a fork after each spoonful of water, just enought to move flour around, until mixture will hold together. Divide dough into 2 balls. Roll out between 2 sheets of wax paper. After crust is fitted, trim edges evenly, leaving a 1 inch overhanging border, fold dough under and back to make an upright rim. Flute edges. Prick crust thoroughly around bottom and sides with a fork(to let out steam).Bake 450, 15 minutes until lightly browned.Makes 2 crusts

Filling
7 TBSP cornstarch
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 cup hot water
3 egg yolks, beaten
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 tsp. finely shredded lemon peel
2 TBSP butter
Mix cornstarch, sugar and salt in saucepan. Slowly add water and stir until smooth. Cook and stir constantly over med. heat until thick and bubbly. Reduce heat and cook 2 minutes more. Remove from heat.

Add 1/2 cup hot mix to egg yolks and mix quickly so it doesn't cook eggs. Keep adding hot mix to egg yolks a half cup at a time until egg mixture is warm (about 1 1/2 cups)pour egg mixture into the rest of filling. Add butter and peel. Mix well. Gradually add lemon juice. Pour hot filling in cooked pastry shell.

Spread meringue over hot filling making sure there is no holes between meringue and crust edge. Bake 350 for 12-15 minutes or till meringue is golden on top of peaks. Cool before cutting.

Meringue
3 egg whites
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
6 TBSP sugar
Beat egg white, vanilla, cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar one tablespoon at a time beating at high speed until stiff glossy peaks form. Immediately spread meringue over pie, all the way to the edge. Leave no holes or meringue will shrink. Bake as directed.

Sheperd's Pie
1 pound ground beef
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 (14 oz) can cut green beans drained
1 (10 3/4 oz) can tomato soup
6 large potatoes, peeled, boiled and mashed (can be done ahead)
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp. salt
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Brown ground beef in olive oil. Add onion, salt and pepper and saute until onion is tender. Put into a greased 9X13 baking dish. Top with drained green beans. Spread tomato soup over beans. Combine mashed potatoes, milk and salt. Mix well. Spoon potatoes over mixture. Top with grated cheese. Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes. Serves 6

Sparkling Butter Toffee Cookies
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp. bking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 cup English or almond toffee bits
Sugar

Heat oven to 350. Combine sugar, butter, egg,vanilla. Beat until creamy. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, reduce speed to low. Beat until well mixed. Stir in toffee bits by hand. Shape rounded tablespoons of dough into balls. Roll in sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten each with bottom of glass to 2 inch circles. (They spread out, don't put too close together)

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Do not over bake. Let cool 2 minutes. Remove from cookie sheet. Sprinkle with sugar while warm.

Pumpkin Delight
1 large can of pumpkin
3/4 tsp. salt
3 eggs beaten
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1/3 tsp. mace
1/3 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. vanilla
Pre heat oven to 350.
Mix above ingredients together, put in 13 X 9 in. pan.
1 package yellow cke mix, sprinkle over top of mixture.
1 cube butter, melt and pour over top of mixture.
Top with chopped pecans.
Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Top with cool mix.

Turkey and Dressing
1 large turkey already stuffed with Mrs. Cubbinson's dressing. Preferably cornbread. (Follow dressing instructions, but add onion (use less) , celery and 1 lb. browned sausage
Procedures
Preheat oven to 450. Place stuffed turkey, breast up, in the center of greased, wide, heavy foil. Bring ends of foil up over breast; overlap fold and press up against end of turkey. Place bird in a shallow roasting pan. ( I use 2 throw away pans, one inside the other) Open foil for last 20 minutes to brown turkey.
7-9 lb....2 1/4 to 2 1/2 hours
10-13 lb....2 3/4 to 3 hours
14-17 lb....3 to 3 1/4 hours
18-21 lb....3 1/4 to 3 1/2 hours
22-24 lb....3 1/4 to 3 3/4 hours

Remove from oven and let stand 20 to 30 minutes before carving. Use drippings for gravy.

Giblet Gravy - Boil Giblets (minus liver, unless you like live liver) in water on a saucepan. Drain and cut into small pieces. Set aside. Mix 2 TBSP. drippings with 2 heaping TBSP flour and 1 TBSP butter in skillet. Heat and stir until butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Slowly add 2 cups milk, put back on heat, stir and bring to a boil stirring constantly. Add giblets. Simmer until giblets are heated through. Can be doubled, tripled, etc. If too thick, gradually add more milk.

Mom's rolls
2 pkg yeast (check date to make sure it's not old)
1 cup cold water
Dissolve yeast in cold water. Set aside.
1/4 lb. butter
2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup boiling water
Pour boiling water over butter, salt and sugar. Stir until melted. Cool until you can stick your finger in it comfortably. Add to yeast.
Add 2 beaten eggs
Add 6 cups flour one cup at a time.
Cover with a damp dishtowel and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from refrigerator and let sit for 30 minutes. Shape and place on greased pans. Place in warm area, cover with damp cloths and let rise until double in size. Bake 400 for 10 to 12 minutes. Brush tops with butter.

Cheesecake
14 gram crackers = 1 cup crumbs (boxed crumbs OK)
1/4 cup butter (softened)
1/4 cup sugar
12 oz cream cheese
2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
5 TBSP+1 tsp. sugar
1 1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
Crust - mix together gram cracker crumbs, butter and sugar. Pat around sides and bottom of a 9 or 10" pie pan. Set aside.
Filling - Combine softened cream cheese, 2 eggs, sugar and vanilla. Beat until smooth and light with an electric beater. Pour into crust. Bake 350 for 20 minutes.
Cool 5 minutes, gently spoon topping on cooked filling
Topping - Mix together 5 TBSP + 1 tsp. sugar, 1 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 tsp vanilla. Spoon over top and bake an additional 10 minutes at 350. Refrigerate at least 5 hours.

Calling all Chocolate Lovers! This is soooo easy to make and soooo delicious!
1 box of brownie mix3 extra large Hershey Bars
Prepare a box of fudge brownies according to directions.
Pour have the mixture in a 9X13 pan (grease bottom).
Lay 3 of those giant Hershey Bars on the mix.
Pour the rest of brownie mixture over the candy.
Bake according to directions. Cool completely before cutting.
Frosting not needed, but if you want to eat with a spoon instead of fingers try it with whipped cream that has a small amount of chopped pecans and grated chocolate folded in.

Mom’s Pudding Cake
In a 13 X 9 inch pan mix:

1 c brown sugar
1/2 c cocoa
Stir in 1 c water
Add 48 minature marshmallows

Make a Devils food cake mix and spoon this over the mixture in the pan.
Top with 1 cup nuts
Bake 40-50 minutes

Fridays with Jim and Ginger

This Friday we did something different! We went to the San Diego Opera and saw Don Quixote. It was fun getting all dressed up and having a night on the town. Don Quixote is a spanish opera but they have english sub titles so you know what's going on. The opera stage was really well done. The orchastra was wonderful. The costumes and scenery were exceptional. I expecially liked the windmill scene. However, Don Quixote is a very, very slow moving opera. Don Quixote does most of the singing and there is not too much action, at least not in the first half. There were quite a few people around us that were sleeping.

The second half? Not sure, we left during intermission. We decided we could stay or go get a bite to eat. The stomach won that argument. We just barely made it to Anthony's before they closed. We had a window seat with the spectacular view. I just had a cup of chowder and a shrimp & crap cocktail since it was so late. It was the perfect meal and a great way to end a fun evening.

Saturday Night Live - Don't Buy Stuff

Click for video: Saturday Night Live - Don't Buy Stuff

My new assignment

I have a part of an amazing new program. Elder Perry came up with this plan for California, and especially San Diego. They have done pilot programs to see how it works in other areas before giving it to us. I imagine it will go across the US before too long.

I attended a meeting for Bishops, High Priest Group Leaders, Elders Quorum Pres. and Relief Society Pres. We had people from Orange County as well as San Diego County so the room was packed. It was given by 2 Gen. Authorities. It was special just to be included. I was given the assignment to find 5 people who would want to commit to take the missionary lessons. Since I am pretty private about my beliefs I was a little afraid to do this. However, the promise was that if I would just be the messenger the Lord would do the rest. So I had my Presidency pray with me for 5 names. Together we came up with 5 people. We then spent 2 weeks praying, fasting and taking these names to the temple. We still felt they were the ones we needed to speak to.

My next challenge was to make the call. For the first one, I went with Billye (my sec) and we visited with a lady we had never met. As soon as I told her we had been praying for her, she burst into tears. I told her the Lord had sent us there to let her know He cared about her and had blessings waiting for her. The feeling was so strong. She agreed this was just what she needed in her life. Her husband then came in and I also asked him if he would meet with the missionaries. I told him this family can’t do this without him. He also was touched and looked at his wife and said, “I think I am ready.” Wow! The feeling of love in that room was amazing. Billye and I left overwhelmed at the privilege of being the messenger.

I went to another family with Jim and gave the same message with a slight twist. I felt prompted to tell them the time is now, not next week, not next month, not next year, but now. I was very bold. They were also in tears. The wife from beginning to end. The husband less so. He told me they like to do things in their own time and own way. I told them to pray and I would continue to pray also. I wasn’t sure if they would accept or not. This last Sunday right after the sacrament was passed, I turned around and they were coming in for the meeting. I was so touched; it was overwhelming to see them there. The missionaries are stopping by their house this week.

So far 3 have been called (my 3rd is a family with 3 kids, they were at church Sunday and meeting with the missionaries tonight) and I will see the other 2 this week. I can hardly wait. This will be an ongoing project for me. When one drops off, I will find another one. It is really a spiritual experience.

When I thought of how much my life has been blessed by my membership in The Church, how could I not want others to experience that as well. Maybe next step will be those people I already love.

Catching Up

It has been a busy two weeks for me, with little time to share on the blog. I will try to catch everyone up in the next few days. It is now Sunday evening, and I am collapsed with exhaustion. My thoughts are just a little jumbled but they are good thoughts.

Today I started my meetings at 7:30 with Ward Counsel, Sacrament at 9:00. I was asked to speak in the other ward with the High Counsel speaker at 11:00. That meant I was going to have to miss Relief Society. I rushed to get everything set up before I left for the chapel. I walk up to the stand and didn't see Bro. Alires, my companion speaker. Instead Bro. Gonsales was on the stand. The meeting was just about to start and I noticed everyone giving me a strange look, like 'what are you doing?' I grabbed a program and my name was not on it. Embarrassed and red faced, I left with no idea where I should be. Jim found me coming out of the chapel and went inside to ask Bro. Gonsales where I was suppose to be. Well.... my assignment was not until 1:00. I was in the wrong ward. They gave me the wrong time.

I then went back to Relief Society and had to hang out at church until 1:00 since I was low on gas and didn't want to chance on it. I spoke on prayer and think it went pretty good. A lady came up to me in tears at the end and thanked me for my talk. I think that is a good sign. It was a good Sunday even if I am tired.

Last night we were invited to our neighbors Tom and Delayne for dinner. They also invited our other neighbors Denny and Linda. It was a fun night with good food. I had the dessert assignment and made lemon meringue pies. And they were fabulous! So incredibly good I was so proud. I am going to post step by step directions so you can make one too. You won't be disappointed. It made for a good Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine Day

Hope you have a great romantic day!
"The pleasure of love is in loving, and we are made happier by the passion we experience than by that we inspire." La Rochefoucald, 1665

52 Blessing Project Weeks 4&5

Opps! I am getting behind! I was going to be so good this year. I really have been grateful for my blessings but I have been so busy and have not taken the time to sit down and write. This week I am grateful for prayer. It is so hard being far away from those I love, especially when they need me. I wish I was independently wealthy and I could just hop on an airplane and go whenever the mood struck me.

So many things have happened, Julie having a stroke and not knowing what is wrong, Amanda having her baby early, Dani and Sammy back in the hospital with such a scare, Lauri sicker than a dog (she's also in the hospital, trying to get fluids into her). I worry about how everyone is making it in this economy. And then there are baby blessings I am missing and just wanting to see everyone again. Sometimes I feel helpless and unable to do much.

I have found great comfort and joy in taking these and many other problems to the Lord. It really is a 'Sweet Hour of Prayer', although for me it is 'Sweet Minutes of Prayer'. I have been amazed at how well everyone is doing. Prayers have been answered and one by one, each is improving. I am also overwhelmed with the peace I feel. I take comfort in the promise given by Jeffrey Holland, "The Lord has said, He would fight our battles, our children's battles and the battles of our children's children." I think I will turn it over to the Lord.

My part is prayer.

Fridays with Jim and Ginger

This Friday brought us a wonderful change of pace. We decided on a movie and dinner. The movie was The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. I wasn't sure if it would be good and Jim really wasn't sure about it. I like deep movies, he likes comedy so I won on this one. It is the story of a man who is born old and gets younger each day. It is a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald and the movie verson stars Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. How can you go wrong with that?

Anyway, I absolutely loved it! I am going to have to buy the book. There were so many little treasures throughout that I want to remember and maybe even quote. I don't know when I have enjoyed a movie this much.

Dinner? Taco Bell. Couldn't have been better.

Letter to my grandchildren

Written by Paul Harvey, agreed with by me.
We tried so hard to make things better for our kids that we made them worse. For my grandchildren, I'd like better. I'd really like for them to know about hand me down clothes and homemade ice cream and leftover meat loaf sandwiches. I really would.

I hope you learn humility by being humiliated, and that you learn honesty by being cheated.I hope you learn to make your own bed and mow the lawn and wash the car. And I really hope nobody gives you a brand new car when you are sixteen.

It will be good if at least one time you can see puppies born and your old dog put to sleep. I hope you get a black eye fighting for something you believe in. I hope you have to share a bedroom with your younger brother/sister. And it's all right if you have to draw a line down the middle of the room, but when he wants to crawl under the covers with you because he's scared, I hope you let him.

When you want to see a movie and your little brother/sister wants to tag along, I hope you'll let him/her. I hope you have to walk uphill to school with your friends and that you live in a town where you can do it safely.

On rainy days when you have to catch a ride, I hope you don't ask your driver to drop you two blocks away so you won't be seen riding with someone as uncool as your Mom. If you want a slingshot, I hope your Dad teaches you how to make one instead of buying one. I hope you learn to dig in the dirt and read books.

When you learn to use computers, I hope you also learn to add and subtract in your head.I hope you get teased by your friends when you have your first crush on a boygirl, and when you talk back to your mother that you learn what ivory soap tastes like.

May you skin your knee climbing a mountain, burn your hand on a stove and stick your tongue on a frozen flagpole. I do care if you try a beer once, but if you do I hope you don't like it.. And if a friend offers you dope or a joint, I hope you realize he is not your friend.

I sure hope you make time to sit on a porch with your Grandma/Grandpa and go fishing with your Uncle. May you feel sorrow at a funeral and joy during the holidays. I hope your mother punishes you when you throw a baseball through your neighbor's window and that she hugs you and kisses you at Christmas time when you give her a plaster mold of your hand.

These things I wish for you - tough times and disappointment, hard work and happiness. To me, it's the only way to appreciate life. Written with a pen. Sealed with a kiss..... I'm here for you. And if I die before you do, I'll go to heaven and wait for you

Trials

Why does something always seem to happen? Just when things were getting better? This is a question all of us ask from time to time. Sometimes it is hard to keep a proper perspective of things. I was reading the Ensign and came across this short story from last months issue. It touched me and I thought you might like to read it too. Just click on the link. http://lds.org/Static%20Files/PDF/Magazines/Ensign/English/2009/EN_2009_01_10___04201_000_025.pdf

I would also recommend you read the latest post on www.societystuff.blogspot.com It is also a good one.

Look at the fun you could be having!

52 Blessing Project - Week 3

There are so many things I consider a blessing in my life right now, it was hard to pick one thing. But it became easy when I really stopped to think about it. This week I am grateful for toilets that work. Now, this is not something that normally crosses my radar. But after months of putting up with a handle that had to be held down, and another one that ran continually I had a mini hissy fit and voila! Jim finally fixed them. Wow! You can flush and walk away and be confident the next time you return there will not be a surprise.

It doesn't take much to make me happy.


This blessing was reinforced as I was sitting in the parking lot at work when a middle age man came out of the office, walked over to where I was sitting in my car and peed on the the bushes! I was horrified! What should I do? Do I watch? Do I laugh? Do I honk the horn? No I did nothing. I was so afraid he would turn around and flash me, I didn't want to see anything. I keep my eyes on the floor. But after he was in his car I gave him the evil eye. Don't think he cared. Now I know why the bushes aren't doing so well. It's not the lack of water.

Prayers for Sammy

Brent and Dani called last night to say Sammy was taken to intensive care. He has RSV. His oxygen levels were very low. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infection of the lungs and breathing passages and is a big concern for such a tiny new baby. Dani is with Sammy and Brent is with the other kids. So lots of prayers are needed. Will keep you posted.

Family

Is there anything in the world that matters more to me? No there is not. I often look at how richly blessed I am with all my wonderful children and their spouses (who I love as much as is possible), my grandchildren and my great-grandchildren. (I know I am way, way to young to be a great-grandma, but I was a child bride). My life is full and I will never be alone. How did I get to be so lucky? It was by sacrifice.

Years ago, when I was young, I did what I knew was right and put many of my own goals and desires on hold to raise a large family. It wasn't easy, pregnancy was horrible, childbirth a nightmare I still shudder at. Diapers, bottles, crying, etc. seemed to never end. But it was also the most wonderful time of my life. Because I was willing to sacrifice then I became the person I am today and now I am enjoying the harvest of my earlier work. The reward and blessings are so much greater than the sacrifice. I would do it all over again given the chance.

I wanted to share a poem with Lauri as she is struggling with her latest news. It is by one of my favorites, Carol Lynn Pearson

Investment
How enviously
I watched
The rose bush
Bear her bud-
Such an easy,
Lovely birth.
And
At that moment
I wished
The sweet myth
Were true -
That I could Pluck you,
My child,
From some
Green vine.

But now
As you breathe,
Through flesh
That was mine
(Gently in the
Small circle
Of my arms),
I see
The wisdom
of investment.

The easy gift
Is easy to forget
But what is bought
With coin of pain-
Is dearly kept.

Joy in The Journey

I just read Lauri's latest post and it has touched my heart. She quoted from Pres. Monson's talk on finding joy in the journey ..“Both abundance and lack [of abundance] exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend … when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that’s present—love, health, family, friends, work, the joys of nature, and personal pursuits that bring us [happiness]—the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience heaven on earth.”

I love this quote and want to make it a part of my life. I usually do find joy in the journey, but it seems I do so by accident. I am going to try to consciously do this each day, no matter what...no matter who gets in my way. So I going to follow Lauri's lead and use Joy as my word for the year. Thanks Lauri!

52 Blessing Project - Week 2

Last year I wasn't very good at writing down a blessing every week. I am going to start all over again.But this year I am going to try really had to accomplish that goal. So for my first blessing of the year. This week I am grateful for new beginnings. I love the chance to start over, wipe the slate clean and start again. I think this is the basis of the gospel. When we repent we are given a new page to write on. The old is destroyed and the new life begins.

I have thought long and hard of what my goals are going to be this year. I don't like resolutions, they are too easy to break but I am pretty goal oriented so they usually help me stay on track. There are so many things to choose from: weight, health, exercise, family, work, finances and on and on. I have decided to limit my goal to one with several sub- categories. My number 1 goal is going to be to purify my life, become a better person, more like what I know I can become. I think if I can do this everything else will fall in place, like work and money. Of course, this will take a big leap of faith, but I think that is part of the process.

I am starting by reading the scriptures every single day - no skips! Not alot, just 1-2 pages. This is possible and not hard, just need the habit formed. The next is more meaningful prayer. Every day. Again I need to take the time to really kneel down and think about what I need to say. I have begun to start every prayer with "Father are you there?" I then wait until I feel His spirit before I go any further. It is making a difference. I think spirituality is like anything else, it needs to be worked on or it is lost.

So I am looking forward to a great year. I will have some other goals as well so this could be a year of real growth.

Wish I had snow!

One, Two and THREE! 52 Blessings Week 1

This Week I am grateful for three new babies!
Can you believe it? Three babies in a three week timeframe? Danyelle and Brent just had a new baby boy.




He was born on New Year's Day.

Name: Samuel Moroni Kynaston
Size: 6 lbs 9 oz at 20.5 inches long
Disposition: Super sweet little guy!!

They had to keep an eye on him for a few days, but mother and baby are doing fine now.

Here is a photo of the family. Don't you just know Emma is going to love this one non-stop?

Pictures of Emmett

Ron and Susan sent me this photo when they got back from visiting Jim and Janeal. Isn't he a cutie? Well done, Janeal.

Go Amanda

Here is the text message Dad got from Amanda. What a woman, gives birth and text at the same time!

Zoey Lynn Hansen
4:39am 5lbs 3oz
19 inches long

No she wasn't due yet, but the doctor was concerned the baby wasn't growing and decided to induce her early. She looks good to me.

A beautiful granddaughter with a beautiful great-granddaughter.

It was a Merry Christmas.

Well, it is over. It seems like there was so much to do in so little time and then poof it is all over and you are wanting just a little bit more. I hope everyone had a nice Christmas. I know I did. It was a quiet one compared to Christmas past. On Christmas Eve Shelli and family and Mike and family came over. We fixed soup, ham, yams, rolls, pies, cookies and candy. Then the next day we had a full on feast, but only Mike and Susann and the kids came. But Mike and Susann scored on the left-overs.

Here are the highlights:
Favorite Food: Dressing and Gravy. Jim outdid himself. Runner up - My cheesecake
Worst Food: My pumpkin pies. Why did I choose today to try a new recipe? Never again. Why mess with perfection?
Favorite Gift: Cute outfit
Favorite Moment: Sitting with family near the glow of the Christmas Tree, seeing the excitement on the little ones faces.
Favorite Kindness: Susann cleaned up the kitchen.
Favorite Saying: Something Katie said, I thought I would be sure and post it for all to enjoy, but now I can't remember it. Does that mean I am getting old?
Biggest Disappointment: I didn't get my scanner because someone procrastinated and it was sold out.
First Thing I am going to buy: My scanner
Biggest Surprise: Betty Boop allowed another dog in her house and even seemed to enjoy it.
Melancholy Moment: Realizing my family is now grown and from now on Christmas will be smaller.
Christmas Resolution: I will be done early next year so I can enjoy without the hustle.

It's a Holly, Jolly Christmas!

I am so busy I haven't had time to post. What a busy week. On Monday I had our office cookie exchange and it was so fun. Great brunch and good cookies. I am putting my recipe on the side bar. It was extremely easy to make and so good. I think it is my new favorite for cookie exchanges.

Next was a goodbye luncheon for Marilee. She is moving to Tucson, AZ. I am going to miss her so much. Not only was she my counselor but one of my closest friends. I try not to think about her being gone, it will be hard not having her nearby. I have grown to really depend on her wisdom and humor. It just won't be the same without her. I am sure this is a good move for her family but we are going to miss her. However, the luncheon was a huge success, even though the rain was an unbelievable downpour.

I made sugared pecans (about 6 lbs) to give as gifts for friends. They were also easy to make, delicious and look good. I hope everyone enjoys receiving them. I still have toffee and fudge to make then most of my Christmas treats will be done. I think that will be on the agenda for tomorrow.

Woke up at 4:00 in the morning on Saturday with a million things running through my mind. I couldn't sleep so got up wrapped presents, boxed them up to send (they are in the mail) then wrote my talk. I had everything I needed to do done by noon. What a great feeling. I was the only speaker for sacrament today. Huge responsibility, lots of stress but I did a pretty good job, if I do say so myself. That really left me exhausted.

I also had 2 escrows last week (Yeah!!!) but one of them was a foreclosure and nothing but trouble. I spent hours and hours on it and it still hasn't closed. At least there will be a small pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

All I have left is a few presents for Jim and then the cooking for the dinner. Merry Christmas!

Fridays with Jim and Ginger

Friday's adventure was a fun trip to San Diego and Balboa Park to see the Christmas Lights. We drove by the embarcadero and grabbed a bite at Anthony's. The entire city was lit up and it was gorgeous. We finished the evening with a drive through Balboa Park. We were going to get out and walk around, but as you can see by the drops the rain started coming down hard and we were without umbrellas. So we settled on a beautiful drive. It was a fun evening.

I have a new grandson!!!!

Yeah! I have a new grandson, "Emmett Brantley Proffitt" born December 14, 2008. Go to the Northwest Bunch for photos! He is so cute and we are so thrilled! Love, love, love to Jim and Janeal.

Pooped!

Very tired and very worn out! I had two funerals today that I had to be in charge of. One was an inactive lady who was visiting her family who hadn't been to church since they were children. We helped them with everything and it turned out to be a wonderful experience. We held the service in the Relief Society Room and it was really good. We also took over food for everyone afterwards. I think we did good, pure service, no expectations - just Christ like love.

The second was a wonderful member of our ward, Pat Patterson. He was 86 and his wife died 6 years ago, so it was a blessing to think about their reunion. His wife had Alzheimer disease for the last 8 years of her life. He lovingly took care of her with nothing in return but a blank stare from her. It didn't stop him from his constant care. When the son went to the house after his death, on the mother's side of the bed was a card from Pat for every anniversary, birthday, mother's day and valentine day since she died. He wrote a personal love note in each of them and kept them by her side of the bed. Yes, love is eternal. What a beautiful love story this is - together at last.

As tired as I am, my spirit is floating!

Perfect Start To Christmas!

From Enrichment

We just had our Relief Society Party! It couldn't have been better. It really set the mood and I think this is going to be a wonderful season. Instead of a dinner and program we had a 'Giving Tree'. For the last few weeks sisters pulled off paper ornaments with information about a child to buy a gift for. We also got gift cards for the mothers. We decided to spend the night at the St. Claires shelter for battered and abused women and children. So off we went, with our wrapped presents, a fabulous pot luck dinner and a little trepidation in our hearts.

We were jammed into the center, it was crowded and hectic, but just perfect for breaking the ice and getting to know each other. The dinner was great, we sang carols and had a story. Then, the best part of the night. Santa! Guess Who? Do you know a chubby old man who is thinning on the top? You guessed it! He was absolutely amazing, probably the best Santa I have ever seen. Even though he had to wipe his eyes a few times.

The first thing he did was ask them if they knew Rudolph and sang it with them, complete with the trailers (like Pinocchio). They all sang their little hearts out. One by one they came and sat on Santa's lap and had their picture taken. One little girl said, "Is your nose really red like a cherry?" Santa said, "Well, what do you think?" She said with tremendous excitement, "Oh, It is! It is!" Each was so precious, so grateful, so full of hope. When you realize these children have never had a positive experience with a man, it made it even more special. One little girl followed Santa out of the building, I told her she had to stay inside and she informed me she wanted to watch him fly away.

I thought of the Savior's words, "Behold Your Little Ones" and "Let The Little Children Come Unto Me." I recognized and felt the spirit bear testimony how precious these children are to Him. He is aware of them and he loves them. It was a very overpowering experience.

Countdown to Christmas

"Each one of you is living a life filled with much to do. I plead with you not to let the important things in life pass you by, planning instead for that illusive and non-existent future day when you'll have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey--now." Thomas S. Monson

My favorite time of year is here. The house is decorated (almost), the Christmas music is playing and I have the Christmas smell on the stove. Even though it's in the high 70's it feels like Christmas.

Many of you have asked, "How did you do Christmas for all of us kids?". I think back to those fun days, what made it special and how did we do it? First of all the presents. I always had 10 presents for each child. That made over 80 presents under the tree. I don't really recommend that, it put up unreal expectations for future spouses and wrapping was a beast. Each of you got 1 big present from Santa. I tried for it to be what you wanted most. Within reason of course, no pony under the tree. Then the other presents were smaller things that would be enjoyed. A T-shirt in one package, always socks in another. The next might be a box of crayons and a coloring book for the young or a packet of marking pens for the older ones. A lip gloss or a bracelet was always loved. You could count on a new pair of PJ's. It's amazing what you can find that is really wanted for little money. The stockings followed the same principle. A few candy bars, a piece of fruit always helped fill it. Paperback books were good for the older ones. Hair pretty, little cars, you get the idea. We never did a big family gift unless we had enough money to do both the individual gifts and a big ticket item. We saved the big ticket item for another time.

But that was only the climax to a wonderful season. It began with decorating the house, setting up the tree, playing Christmas music every day. I always had the Christmas smell simmering on the stove. (Mix water, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, ginger and few orange slices together and bring to a boil, turn down heat and let simmer. Keep adding water so it doesn't burn down). We went to all the decorations in the area, including the mall, attended both school and church Christmas programs and never missed a Frosty, Rudolph or any other Christmas TV show. We exchanged names among the kids and shopped for each other with excitement.

You remember the traditions, singing, cookies, etc. But the most important thing is enjoy! Take time to read a Christmas story, don't worry if it doesn't all get done. As long as it involves the kids it is worth doing, if it is just cleaning, it can wait a day or two.

My countdown has begun! I can hardly wait.

Fasting for Julianne

Remember we are going to fast for Julie today! If you are unable to fast (for all you preggers) you must pray extra hard. I know we can really make a difference for her.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Evening!

The food is eaten, the left overs put away, the dishes in the dishwasher and the kitchen is almost clean. I can't take another step. I am finally beginning to feel my age! As much as I enjoy all the preparations for a big feast, this is the final result! Crashed very early. I must say the food was exceptional. My pies could not have been better. I think I am going to have to have a pie making demonstration since I don't think any of my children and grandchildren can make a good crust. It would be a shame to lose my fantastic touch with pies, so be prepared - You will learn. My goal - never again a store bought crust in this family. I also put the rolls closer on the pan this year and they actually came out better. Try it, you'll be surprised. We had a wonderful day although we missed Susann and Eberly. Poor Eberly was sick, not only was it Thanksgiving, but it was her birthday! We are going to have to make that up to her, I sent home a whole cheesecake for her, it's her favorite. Don't know if she shared it or not! Now on to getting ready for Christmas!

Family Fast

Dad and I were talking and we think it would be a good idea to have a family fast for Julie. She is not doing very well, her doctors don't seem to know what to do. She needs some extra help. This Sunday we will all fast breakfast and lunch. Remember her in your prayers thoughout the day. I know there is strength in all of us appealing to the Lord for his help with Julie. I hope all of you can join us.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Turkey and Dressing
1 large turkey already stuffed with Mrs. Cubbinson's dressing. Preferably cornbread. (Follow dressing instructions, but add onion (use less) , celery and 1 lb. browned sausage
Procedures
Preheat oven to 450. Place stuffed turkey, breast up, in the center of greased, wide, heavy foil. Bring ends of foil up over breast; overlap fold and press up against end of turkey. Place bird in a shallow roasting pan. ( I use 2 throw away pans, one inside the other) Open foil for last 20 minutes to brown turkey.
7-9 lb....2 1/4 to 2 1/2 hours
10-13 lb....2 3/4 to 3 hours
14-17 lb....3 to 3 1/4 hours
18-21 lb....3 1/4 to 3 1/2 hours
22-24 lb....3 1/4 to 3 3/4 hours

Remove from oven and let stand 20 to 30 minutes before carving. Use drippings for gravy.

Giblet Gravy - Boil Giblets (minus liver, unless you like live liver) in water on a saucepan. Drain and cut into small pieces. Set aside. Mix 2 TBSP. drippings with 2 heaping TBSP flour and 1 TBSP butter in skillet. Heat and stir until butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Slowly add 2 cups milk, put back on heat, stir and bring to a boil stirring constantly. Add giblets. Simmer until giblets are heated through. Can be doubled, tripled, etc. If too thick, gradually add more milk.

Mom's rolls
2 pkg yeast (check date to make sure it's not old)
1 cup cold water
Dissolve yeast in cold water. Set aside.
1/4 lb. butter
2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup boiling water
Pour boiling water over butter, salt and sugar. Stir until melted. Cool until you can stick your finger in it comfortably. Add to yeast.
Add 2 beaten eggs
Add 6 cups flour one cup at a time.
Cover with a damp dishtowel and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from refrigerator and let sit for 30 minutes. Shape and place on greased pans. Place in warm area, cover with damp cloths and let rise until double in size. Bake 400 for 10 to 12 minutes. Brush tops with butter.

Cheesecake
14 gram crackers = 1 cup crumbs (boxed crumbs OK)
1/4 cup butter (softened)
1/4 cup sugar
12 oz cream cheese
2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
5 TBSP+1 tsp. sugar
1 1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
Crust - mix together gram cracker crumbs, butter and sugar. Pat around sides and bottom of a 9 or 10" pie pan. Set aside.
Filling - Combine softened cream cheese, 2 eggs, sugar and vanilla. Beat until smooth and light with an electric beater. Pour into crust. Bake 350 for 20 minutes.
Cool 5 minutes, gently spoon topping on cooked filling
Topping - Mix together 5 TBSP + 1 tsp. sugar, 1 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 tsp vanilla. Spoon over top and bake an additional 10 minutes at 350. Refrigerate at least 5 hours.

How did these traditions start?

Turkey and Dressing: My mother and father always made the dressing and gravy. This is their recipe. I learned about the foil method in a cooking class.

Rolls - Lucy Cranney, my friend for almost 40 years gave me this recipe.

Cheesecake - My friend Sherlynn Phares and I made these cheesecakes and sold them to a little cafe when I was about 19. It's been a tradition ever since.

Beauty all around me

This week I am grateful for the beauty all around me. Sometimes I am overwhelmed with just how beautiful this world is. It really is magnificant to behold.

This is the fantastic sunset off our balcony.

I NEED HELP!

Does anyone know how to do this? On my Relief Society Blog I want to have a link that goes to a page where people can leave a comment. Over on the side (not in the middle where the posts are)I want to put the reading challenge and then I want a link so sisters can leave a comment and read what others have said.

I would also like to know how to have a link on the sidebar and have it go to another page, kind of like a multiple page blog. Is it possible? Anyone know how to do it?

Fridays with Jim and Ginger

We finally had a semi-cool day and we decided if we were going to experience autumn we would have to go to it - it wasn't coming to us. So we embarked on a fun day trip to Julian.


Our first stop was at the Tenaja rest stop for a quick hike and our first look and feel of mountains. No fall color, but lots of pines and oaks and fresh air.

We continued on through Julian up to Cuyamaca. There is a ranch I have always loved. It has a beautiful meadow and is surrounded with pine trees. It also had a beautiful ranch house that had a fire going in the winter with smoke climbing out the chimney. Imagine my surprise when this is what we found.

Amazing isn't it! It was gone, burned to the ground! The entire Julian/Cuyamaca area is burned out; nothing but dead trees and stumps. Very ugly, and sad.

We were happy to see the lake was still pretty and we even saw a flock of Canadian geese on the shores. (If the pictures are too small - click on them to enlarge - they are fun.)


No fall color; not this year!


Onward and upward to the best part of the day! Shopping in Julian and apple pie. They have the very best apple pie in the world. It was hot out of the oven, smelled as good as it tasted. Yes, we brought a pie home. I was sorry we didn't buy two! We then went shopping and I hit the jackpot with a fabulous store 'The warm hearth', that went on forever, upstairs, downstairs, basement, back room, on and on, filled with wonderful treasures. It was such a temptation not to go crazy and buy it all. I had great self control.

Overall - a really fun day! We'll go again when the snow comes!

This is the part of Thanksgiving that I am

You Are Mashed Potatoes

Ordinary, comforting, and more than a little predictable You're the glue that holds everyone together.

What Part of Thanksgiving Are You?

Yummy for the Tummy

I am saving the brownie recipe below so if you haven't tried it yet, it is still available. Look to the side bar for the recipe update. The new recipe is so good and a great substitute for pumpkin pie. Try it sometime this month, it will put you in the thanksgiving spirit.

Double Chocolate Brownies

Calling all Chocolate Lovers! This is soooo easy to make and soooo delicious!
1 box of brownie mix3 extra large Hershey Bars
Prepare a box of fudge brownies according to directions.

Pour have the mixture in a 9X13 pan (grease bottom).

Lay 3 of those giant Hershey Bars on the mix.

Pour the rest of brownie mixture over the candy.
Bake according to directions. Cool completely before cutting.
Frosting not needed, but if you want to eat with a spoon instead of fingers try it with whipped cream that has a small amount of chopped pecans and grated chocolate folded in.

Prophets and such

This week I am grateful for Prophets and counsel from those who represent Heavenly Father. We have heeded his counsel and put the morality issue of marriage front and center. Now we are feeling the fallout. Our temples and churchs are being picketed. The demonstrators are loud and vulgar. They try to block the temple entrance and some of the members have been frightened and intimidated. Sunday we were told to be prepared for agressive demonstrators, an organized effort was taking place, they would protest outside and try to disrupt the services.

We had security in place at all the buildings and at the temple. About 4:00 am we experienced a weather change. It started with a strong wind and was followed by sprinkles. By 9:00 it was pouring. Not a gentle rain, but a downpour; freezing windblown rain that made you hurry to get out of it. Umbrellas couldn't keep you dry. The result? No protestors.

As I drove up to my 'before church meetings' I noticed what had happened and thought back to the early days in Salt Lake City. The Mormon pioneers had just gotten their crops in the ground and they were starting to sprout. This was all that stood between them and starvation next winter. Crickets came in droves and was destroying the crops. The pioneers prayed and asked the Lord for help. His answer was to send Sea Gulls, by the thousands. The skies were darkened by the number of birds. The gulls ate the crickets. They ate and ate. They actually threw up and ate again. They continued until all the crickets were gone. The food supply was saved.

Sometimes the Lord sends Sea Gulls and sometimes he sends rain. Sometimes he sends crickets which became a tremendous faith promoting experience for those pioneers. Today as in yesterdays he is always aware and looking out for those who love and serve him. We really have nothing to fear.

To make you smile

I am in a rage at the new website and the demonstrations at the temple. I can't seem to calm down so I thought I need a distraction. Thought you might like one to. This will put a smile on your face!

This is for those that haven't seen the 16 baby pandas. SICHUAN , China -- One zoo in southwest China has its hands full with 16 baby pandas. The Sichuan Wolong Panda Protection and Breed Center is dealing with the results of a breeding boom where 16 pandas have been born. The brood includes five sets of twins. The cubs are weighed and measured every five days (see pics). The heaviest tips the scale at just over 24 pounds, while the lightest weighs about 11 pounds. The pandas are due to stop suckling soon - just about the time they'll start learning to walk. Once weaned, the panda cubs will attend panda kindergarten. In the meantime, more little ones are expected at the centre since 38 giant pandas were artificially impregnated.

Coming Up For Air!

OK, now I can breathe again! The election is over. Spent yesterday vegging out, very sad about the outcome, except for Prop 8, which was the most important. However, I hate big government and Obama scares me. I don't think government is capable of doing anything better or cheaper than the private sector. If I could have invested my Social Security myself all those years, it would be worth so much more. Plus I don't trust politicians. I am also upset at the way the media took sides in this election. WRONG!

But the more I think about it I think we might see something extraordinary from Obama. We will have to wait and see if he governs with his leftie friends or makes a stand for history as the first black President. William Shakespeare said, "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." Maybe with our prayers he will rise to the occasion.

One thing that is very clear to me is that the only real safety for our children is within the walls of our homes and churches. They must be taught and re-taught what is right and what is wrong. They must learn at the mother's knee how to love the Lord. This is the only way they will find happiness in this filthy world we live in. Mom's even if you are exhausted and frazzled you cannot miss church or Family Home Evening. The world is changing so fast. I really think the Prop 8 yes is just a breather. It will go to the Supreme Court. The agenda for 'immorality and anything goes' is set and they are fighting as hard as we are. My daily prayer are that you will be strong in your convictions and pass it on to your children.

I think this quote was really written for us today."We live in the best of times, we live in the worst of times."

Halloween Past

I had a rather boring Halloween. Jim had to go to the church for Trunk or Treat and I had to stay behind to hand out candy to the neighborhood kids. We usually get some cute little ones but this year we only got big teenagers. Their bags were already half full and they weren't even nice. After awhile I just turned off the lights. The only highlight was when Susann came by with the kids. Even Betty Boop got excited to see them.

It made me remember the Halloweens in the past. I used to love Halloween as a kid. Our costumes were never store bought. I was a ghost (a bed sheet with 2 holes cut in it for eyes); a pirate (ragged jeans, a bandanna, junk necklaces, eye patch made from electrician tape); a princess (a prom dress purchased from Goodwill, no crown) and the most common-the hobo (similar to pirate but no necklace or eye patch and the bandanna now tied to a stick for a ruck sack). The school always had a costume judging contest, never won it. Didn't care.

Everyone wore their costume to school that day and we ended school early for the Halloween carnival. I went to Central School and they would set the carnival up in the street by the playground. The school was set up with lots of booths to win things. Each booth would have a game, like fishing, ring toss, knock down the bottles, etc. The prize was a cheap plastic toy like a spider ring. It seemed everyone got a prize. You had to buy a ticket to play, they were a nickel apiece. We usually got a dollar to buy tickets and I always was watching the ground for lost tickets I could grab.

I spent half my tickets on the booths and half on the cake walk. I wanted to win a cake so bad. Each year I would walk round and round and when the music stopped they would call out a number and the winner got a cake. It was NEVER mine! I never won but every year I kept trying. I loved it anyway.

They had chili and Kool-aid which was free, but you had to buy anything else. Since it was cafeteria food, we didn't eat much. We were too excited for the rest of the evening. Trick or Treating. We started at our house and went to Nana and Gramps collecting goodies along the way. We mostly were given penny candy, but one time I got a candy bar. No one else got it - just me! I was so excited. Sometimes people gave out pennies or nickles when they ran out of candy, that was also very good.

We ate so much candy we were sick for days. But loved every minute of it.

How we are spending our time!

From Untitled Album

We have been busy as you can see working on Prop 8. We have been holding signs at street intersections. Most of the response has been positive - lots of horns honking in support - lots of thumbs up and waving. However there has been the occasional flipping off and a few vulgar remarks. Most of the nasty remarks can't be heard above the cars honking so don't really know what they were saying. Just guessing that with the uplifted finger it probably wasn't nice. There are groups at lots of street corners so we are getting great coverage. At one of the corners during the middle of the day a group of Mom's were waving their signs. A car came by and the guy in the passenger seat was mooning them. Just as they got to the green light it changed to red and they were stuck there for about 2 minutes. It must have seemed a lifetime to that hairy, pimply butt. Too bad they didn't get a face to go with the butt.

Saturday will be spent door hanging and Sunday and Monday will be telephoning to remind people to vote. We sure will be glad when this is over. At least we know we did all we could to make it happen, no matter the outcome.

From Untitled Album

Fridays with Ginger

This Friday, I discovered a new fun thing to do! It is the October Harvest Craft Festival!! It is in Del Mar at the fairgrounds. It was amazing, it has been going on for years and I didn't even know about it! It takes up several buildings (the Bing Crosby Hall, etc.) It is filled with thousands of booths. This is not Jim's thing - he pretends he likes it, but gets bored after a few booths that seem the same to him and wants me to hurry up, anyway since he is dieting he can't eat all the free samples. So I went with some friends and left him home.

Every kind of crafty thing you can imagine is there. I tried to take pics but my camera said it was protected and locked. How did that happen? If anyone knows how to free it, let me know, I would hate to have to buy another one of those little card thing-es. So I could only take one picture on my cell phone since I can't figure that out either.

But back to the fair. I was delighted with all the different things to buy. It took so much self control to just limit myself with so many choices before me. I settled on: A really cute Christmas shirt with matching earrings. Some fabulous, fantastic scrub ( mine is 'Sex on the Beach' and 'Waterfall Mist' - yes I bought 2), it is a overall body scrub, but really, really good for feet and hands. I also bought a hanging potpourri decoration, but it stank so bad I had to hang it in the garage until the smell goes away. It is still a cute hanging thing. Then I bought some special dips for the holidays, or whenever I get a craving. That was it - great self control!

Too bad this only comes along once a year. I will absolutely never miss it again!

So depressed!

After a really fun Friday (I will post that after I feel better) I woke up this morning so depressed. I was watching a news show on TV (big mistake) and they were telling the latest results of the election. Not only is Obama going to win by a large margin but Prop 8 is probably going to lose.

I can't stand big government and McCain is too liberal for me, so Obama scares me to death. I think he is going to destroy the economy with his Robin Hood approach. If you take money from the small business owner to give to those not even paying taxes (I call that welfare) I will not be able to have an assistant. You see it is all about me!

Last night we watched Gray's Anatomy and I was sick. It was a tutorial on how to seduce a same sex relationship. If you don't know what to do- just watch this show!! I couldn't believe the total and complete lack of morality. I will not be watching that show anymore and I am afraid this is going to be the world we live in from now on. You parents are going to have to be on guard for the evil that your children are exposed to.

I knew the world was going to get worse, all prophecies say it is so, but I didn't want to have to watch it happen. Just a few days ago I said, "How much worse can it get?" I don't really want to know that answer.

A New Me!

Well, I have decided to go on a diet! I am suspose to keep a journal so I decided to do it here so all of you can share my journey. When Lynda was here I guess she and Jim decided we should all go on a diet. I am a little disappointed because I thought when you get to be 60 that was one of the perks - you don't give a damn about how much you weigh. But I really would like to tie my own shoes again, as long as that doesn't mean I have to give myself pedicures. I would also like to walk through the mall and not huff and puff.

So we are all on the South Beach Diet!!!! I'm probably not going to read the book because I already know if I like it; it's probably not on the list. If I love it; it is definately not on the list. Anyway, I am going to ease into this.

First day: No breakfast (nothing unusual there) Just a big gulp. Lunch: Jim brought home some delicious carne asada and salsa. He just had his on a plate, but that seemed a waste to me so I had mine in tortillas. Yummy. Dinner: Jim barbecued fish and added broccoli (yuck). I ate it but was still hungry so I had some more carne asada with tortillas. Not bad. In the morning I lost 1 pound!
Wow! It's working.

Second day: No breakfast, just a big gulp. Lunch: The carne asada was gone so I stuck some Velveeta in the tortillas and nuked it. Very good. Dinner: Steak (OK, not a fav) green beans. I ate it but was still hungry so I made Jim go to 7-11 for a refill and a package of Hostess SnoBalls. So good!!! I also had a ice cream bar (I'm trying to clean out the freezer). In the morning I gained a little, just a half pound. Soooo, I am now down 1/2 pound! Yeah, it is beginning to be bearable.

I'll post my skinny pictures!

Fridays with Jim and Ginger and family

This week it was a short drive to Valley Center to Bates Brothers Nut Farm!

Yes it is an old family favorite, especially this time of year. Lauri and family and Susann and family joined us. That made it lots of fun! It was about 90 degrees so it didn't really feel like autumn but that didn't stop us. We loved resting on the picnic tables in the shade when we needed a break.

Bates has been here ever since I can remember and just gets better each year. The highlight of the trip was the pumpkin patch where each kid found their ideal pumpkin. The little ones just wanted to play and it wasn't easy getting them out of there. I should have gotten a giant pumpkin for the front door, but didn't.

From there we went to the animals and bought 10 bags of food so everyone could feed the animals. Ducks, chickens, geese, goats, lambs, llama and horses were there for the feeding. Of course, everyone loved it and when the food was gone the kids picked up spilled corn from the dirt to continue the fun.

We stopped by the country store and controlled ourselves by just buying trail mix and nuts - leaving the fabulous candy alone. I don't think that was a good choice, but I will get another chance since we are going back to buy the stuff for my world famous fruitcake. I might even share that recipe this year (It is a family secret given to me by my Aunt Dorothy). They also had some wonderful decorations for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Definitely will be going back.

Fridays with Jim and Ginger and Lynda

Yes, that's right this Friday we shared it with my sister, Lynda. Lynda came from Santa Rosa to spend the weekend with me. Actually it was to attend our niece Bethany's wedding. But I know it was really an excuse to see me. It was so much fun. We laughed and laughed. It is wonderful to get together again. It is interesting that no matter how much time passes we just pick up where we left off as if only a few days had passed rather than a whole year. We spent a lot of time together when our kids were growing up so we both love each others children. We love to hear what is going on with everyone. So what do sisters do when they get together? -----They Shop! Where do they Shop? You got it! So for our Friday adventure we headed to our favorite store.

The shopping was great, a perfect way to spend an afternoon. It was particularly funny, don't know why; it just was. Even the sales lady was having fun. We both got new tops for the wedding and then let Jim join us at the Brigatine for a yummy dinner. We all licked our plates clean and of course saved room for dessert.

And the wedding was beautiful, Bethany was a knockout. See Lynda's blog for more photos.


Next time we are going to buy twin outfits and have 2 desserts!