They are really laying eggs. We've had them since they were little chicks and 6 months later.... eggs! It's been a long process to go through, but we're finally there. Two of three of our hens are laying now. Our little Wyandotte hen isn't laying yet. She is the tiniest of the three girls and I'm worried she won't lay at all. She is so tiny that I think she'll only lay little walnut sized eggs. I will post pictures.
In other news... I am starting a new business. It's in the works... stay tuned in. :)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Summer is almost gone, but not here!
I haven't posted all summer. I've moved!!! So many wonderful things have happened. I plan on posting soon.... AND I found a job! I love this video. I just saw it today and thought I'd post.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
This is too too funny...
James sent this to me. After working hard all day, I needed to laugh!
Dam Notice
This is an actual letter sent to a man named Ryan DeVries regarding a pond on his property. It was sent by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Quality, State of Pennsylvania This guy's response is hilarious, but read the State's letter before you get to the response letter.
SUBJECT: DEQ File No.97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. DeVries:
It has come to the attention of the Department of Environmental Quality that there has been recent unauthorized activity on the above referenced parcel of property. You have been certified as the legal landowner and/or contractor who did the following unauthorized activity: Construction and maintenance of two wood debris dams across the outlet stream of Spring Pond.
A permit must be issued prior to the start of this type of activity. A review of the Department's files shows that no permits have been issued. Therefore, the Department has determined that this activity is in violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.
The Department has been informed that one or both of the dams partially failed during a recent rain event, causing debris and flooding at downstream locations.
We find that dams of this nature are inherently hazardous and cannot be permitted.
The Department therefore orders you to cease and desist all activities at this location, and to restore the stream to a free-flow condition by removing all wood and brush forming the dams from the stream channel. All restoration work shall be completed no later than January 31, 2008.
Please notify this office when the restoration has been completed so that a follow-up site inspection may be scheduled by our staff. Failure to comply with this request or any further unauthorized activity on the site may result in this case being referred for elevated enforcement action.. We anticipate and would appreciate your full cooperation in this matter. Please feel free to contact me at this office if
you have any questions.
Sincerely,
David L. Price
District Representative and Water Management Division.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is the actual response sent back by Mr. DeVries:
Re: DEQ File No. 97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. Price,
Your certified letter dated 11/25/07 has been handed to me to respond to.
I am the legal landowner but not the Contractor at 2088 Dagget Lane , Trout Run, Pennsylvania
A couple of beavers are in the (State unauthorized) process of constructing and maintaining two wood 'debris' dams across the outlet stream of my Spring Pond. While I did not pay for, authorize, nor supervise their dam project, I think they would be highly offended that you call their skillful use of natures building materials 'debris.'
I would like to challenge your department to attempt to emulate their dam project any time and/or any place you choose. I believe I can safely state there is no way you could ever match their dam skills, their dam resourcefulness, their dam ingenuity, their dam persistence, their dam determination and/or their dam work ethic.
These are the beavers/contractors you are seeking. As to your request, I do not think the beavers are aware that they must first fill out a dam permit prior to the start of this type of dam activity.
My first dam question to you is:
(1) Are you trying to discriminate against my Spring Pond Beavers, or
(2) do you require all beavers throughout this State to conform to said dam request?
If you are not discriminating against these particular beavers, through the Freedom of Inform
ation Act, I request completed copies of all those other applicable beaver dam permits that have been issued.
(Perhaps we will see if there really is a dam violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental
Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.)
I have several concerns. My first concern is, aren't the beavers entitled to legal representation? The Spring Pond Beavers are financially destitute and are unable to pay for said representation -- so the State will have to provide them with a dam lawyer. The Department's dam concern that either one or both of the dams failed during a recent rain event, causing flooding, is proof that this is a natural occurrence, which the Department is required to protect. In other words, we should leave the Spring Pond Beavers alone rather than harassing them and calling them dam names.
If you want the stream 'restored' to a dam free-flow condition please contact the beavers -- but if you are going to arrest them, they obviously did not pay any attention to your dam letter, they being unable to read English.
In my humble opinion, the Spring Pond Beavers have a right to build their unauthorized dams as long as the sky is blue, the grass is green and water flows downstream. They have more dam rights than I do to live and enjoy Spring Pond. If the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection lives up to its name, it should protect the natural resources (Beavers) and the environment (Beavers' Dams).
So, as far as the beavers and I are concerned, this dam case can be referred for more elevated enforcement action right now. Why wait until 1/31/2008? The Spring Pond Beavers may be under the dam ice then and there will be no way for you or your dam staff to contact/harass them.
In conclusion, I would like to bring to your attention to a
real environmental quality, health, problem in the area. It is the bears! Bears are actually defecating in our woods. I definitely believe you should be persecuting the defecating bears and leave the beavers alone. If you are going to investigate the beaver dam, watch your step! The bears are not careful where they dump!
Being unable to comply with your dam request, and being unable to contact you on your dam answering machine, I am sending this response to your dam office.
THANK YOU,
RYAN DEVRIES
& THE DAM BEAVERS
Dam Notice
This is an actual letter sent to a man named Ryan DeVries regarding a pond on his property. It was sent by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Quality, State of Pennsylvania This guy's response is hilarious, but read the State's letter before you get to the response letter.
SUBJECT: DEQ File No.97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. DeVries:
It has come to the attention of the Department of Environmental Quality that there has been recent unauthorized activity on the above referenced parcel of property. You have been certified as the legal landowner and/or contractor who did the following unauthorized activity: Construction and maintenance of two wood debris dams across the outlet stream of Spring Pond.
A permit must be issued prior to the start of this type of activity. A review of the Department's files shows that no permits have been issued. Therefore, the Department has determined that this activity is in violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.
The Department has been informed that one or both of the dams partially failed during a recent rain event, causing debris and flooding at downstream locations.
We find that dams of this nature are inherently hazardous and cannot be permitted.
The Department therefore orders you to cease and desist all activities at this location, and to restore the stream to a free-flow condition by removing all wood and brush forming the dams from the stream channel. All restoration work shall be completed no later than January 31, 2008.
Please notify this office when the restoration has been completed so that a follow-up site inspection may be scheduled by our staff. Failure to comply with this request or any further unauthorized activity on the site may result in this case being referred for elevated enforcement action.. We anticipate and would appreciate your full cooperation in this matter. Please feel free to contact me at this office if
you have any questions.
Sincerely,
David L. Price
District Representative and Water Management Division.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is the actual response sent back by Mr. DeVries:
Re: DEQ File No. 97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. Price,
Your certified letter dated 11/25/07 has been handed to me to respond to.
I am the legal landowner but not the Contractor at 2088 Dagget Lane , Trout Run, Pennsylvania
A couple of beavers are in the (State unauthorized) process of constructing and maintaining two wood 'debris' dams across the outlet stream of my Spring Pond. While I did not pay for, authorize, nor supervise their dam project, I think they would be highly offended that you call their skillful use of natures building materials 'debris.'
I would like to challenge your department to attempt to emulate their dam project any time and/or any place you choose. I believe I can safely state there is no way you could ever match their dam skills, their dam resourcefulness, their dam ingenuity, their dam persistence, their dam determination and/or their dam work ethic.
These are the beavers/contractors you are seeking. As to your request, I do not think the beavers are aware that they must first fill out a dam permit prior to the start of this type of dam activity. My first dam question to you is:
(1) Are you trying to discriminate against my Spring Pond Beavers, or
(2) do you require all beavers throughout this State to conform to said dam request?
If you are not discriminating against these particular beavers, through the Freedom of Inform
ation Act, I request completed copies of all those other applicable beaver dam permits that have been issued.
(Perhaps we will see if there really is a dam violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental
Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.)
I have several concerns. My first concern is, aren't the beavers entitled to legal representation? The Spring Pond Beavers are financially destitute and are unable to pay for said representation -- so the State will have to provide them with a dam lawyer. The Department's dam concern that either one or both of the dams failed during a recent rain event, causing flooding, is proof that this is a natural occurrence, which the Department is required to protect. In other words, we should leave the Spring Pond Beavers alone rather than harassing them and calling them dam names.
If you want the stream 'restored' to a dam free-flow condition please contact the beavers -- but if you are going to arrest them, they obviously did not pay any attention to your dam letter, they being unable to read English.
In my humble opinion, the Spring Pond Beavers have a right to build their unauthorized dams as long as the sky is blue, the grass is green and water flows downstream. They have more dam rights than I do to live and enjoy Spring Pond. If the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection lives up to its name, it should protect the natural resources (Beavers) and the environment (Beavers' Dams).
So, as far as the beavers and I are concerned, this dam case can be referred for more elevated enforcement action right now. Why wait until 1/31/2008? The Spring Pond Beavers may be under the dam ice then and there will be no way for you or your dam staff to contact/harass them.
In conclusion, I would like to bring to your attention to a
real environmental quality, health, problem in the area. It is the bears! Bears are actually defecating in our woods. I definitely believe you should be persecuting the defecating bears and leave the beavers alone. If you are going to investigate the beaver dam, watch your step! The bears are not careful where they dump!
Being unable to comply with your dam request, and being unable to contact you on your dam answering machine, I am sending this response to your dam office.
THANK YOU,
RYAN DEVRIES
& THE DAM BEAVERS
Saturday, May 23, 2009
I haven't been posting much...
Mainly because I've been busy working two jobs and forming a business with a friend of mine. I'm usually gone from 9am to 10 or 11pm. I'm tired. The good news is that I have been riding my bike everywhere. Anytime I go anywhere... I ride my bike. I love it! James bought it for my birthday and it is a true European built girls' bike. AND I can wear a skirt when I ride it! Awesome!!! 
Monday, May 11, 2009
Been gone all weekend...
I'm gone again until tomorrow. I'm taking my brother to his post op appointment and then taking him home with me. Then I go to work. This week is my birthday! I can't believe I'll be 34! It's going to be a busy week and I need to get started before I fall behind. So much to do, so little time! I'm posting this video because my friend sent it to me and I laughed so hard after I saw it that I almost wet my pants! It's awesome
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Gone til Saturday...
My brother had surgery today and I'm taking care of him while my Mother is in Chicago helping with another brother's new baby who was born today. (I'm jealous, I want to see him!) So.... I haven't been posting much because I work 2 jobs now, and I'm trying to take care of things while my Mother is away, plus I'm taking time to go help out with my brother.... AND I got baby chicks this past week. I can't wait to have fresh eggs from my back yard. The babies are so cute and fun to play with! They sound like little song birds... I wonder when they'll learn to cluck like chickens!!! I'll be back on Saturday to help my employer with her daughter's birthday party.... I'm making the cake and helping with the activities, plus I'm getting the little girl's party dress ready for her birthday, washing, mending, and ironing it. Then I'll be back down to be with my brother to make sure he's doing well, and then I'll be back here for work. It's going to be a crazy next few days, I hope I can keep up!!! 
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Britain's got talent...
Have you heard of her? I love this song. Just hold her down and let me get at those eyebrows with a pot of wax!!!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Shocking!
Go here and watch this video. I probably shouldn't post it because I know it will just make James angry, but I think all police officers should have cameras in their cars. That way they can be responsible for their outrageous behavior just like citizens are. I'm glad the police chief apologized to the Moats family since Ryan missed his mother's passing because of this officer and I'm glad the officer resigned. If you're a moron with a sense of holier than thou, you shouldn't be a police officer! LOSER!!!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Just wanted all of my family to know...
A family friend, Elmer Hoppe died. Click here for the obituary. I'm going to the funeral.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Dancing with the Stars is back on....
and James' favorite band was on. He missed it so I thought I'd post it. They don't sound as good as they used to, but they're still good.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Believe
Do you believe you can make a difference? Do you believe you have the power for good and can stand up and make change happen for the better of our country? I challenge everyone to join in The 912 Project and stand up for what is right. We don't need more corrupt politicians speaking about change when our country is floundering and many of our fellow citizens are too. We need politicians who believe in The United States of America and who will fight for the good of it and her people. We need good leaders again like George Washington, the first President of our country who integrity and honor. I don't think we can sit back anymore and let politicians run our country. They are corrupting what is good.
Here is The 912 Project Mission Statement:
This website is a place for you and other like-minded Americans looking for direction in taking back the control of our country. It is also a place to find information that will assist you in navigating the rough waters we face in the days, weeks and months ahead.
We suggest that you start in your own homes. Talk to your family about the Values and Principles. Discuss the importance of what the Founders designed for America.
Hold or attend a weekly meeting in your neighborhood or town. Communication with your neighbors is vital to the process of protecting our country. Gather in living rooms, coffee houses or restaurants. Share your thoughts and ideas.
Visit this website often. Make use of the resources that are linked here. Share the ideas and resources that have worked in your home or town.
This is a non-political movement. The 9-12 Project is designed to bring us all back to the place we were on September 12, 2001. The day after America was attacked we were not obsessed with Red States, Blue States or political parties. We were united as Americans, standing together to protect the greatest nation ever created.
That same feeling – that commitment to country is what we are hoping to foster with this idea. We want to get everyone thinking like it is September 12th, 2001 again.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do you watch the direction that America is being taken in and feel powerless to stop it?
Do you believe that your voice isn’t loud enough to be heard above the noise anymore?
Do you read the headlines everyday and feel an empty pit in your stomach…as if you’re completely alone?
If you’ve answered YES, then you’ve fallen for the Wizard of Oz lie. While the voices you hear in the distance may sound intimidating, as if they surround us from all sides—the reality is very different. Once you pull back the curtain, you realize that there are only a few people pressing the buttons, and their voices are weak. The truth is that they don’t surround us at all.
We surround them.
At the origin of America, our Founding Fathers built this country on 28 powerful principles. These principles were culled from all over the world and from centuries of great thinkers. We have distilled the original 28 down to the 9 basic principles.
So, how do we show America what’s really behind the curtain? Read the nine simple principles. If you believe in at least seven of them, then we have something in common.
Welcome.
Here is The 912 Project Mission Statement:
This website is a place for you and other like-minded Americans looking for direction in taking back the control of our country. It is also a place to find information that will assist you in navigating the rough waters we face in the days, weeks and months ahead.
We suggest that you start in your own homes. Talk to your family about the Values and Principles. Discuss the importance of what the Founders designed for America.
Hold or attend a weekly meeting in your neighborhood or town. Communication with your neighbors is vital to the process of protecting our country. Gather in living rooms, coffee houses or restaurants. Share your thoughts and ideas.
Visit this website often. Make use of the resources that are linked here. Share the ideas and resources that have worked in your home or town.
This is a non-political movement. The 9-12 Project is designed to bring us all back to the place we were on September 12, 2001. The day after America was attacked we were not obsessed with Red States, Blue States or political parties. We were united as Americans, standing together to protect the greatest nation ever created.
That same feeling – that commitment to country is what we are hoping to foster with this idea. We want to get everyone thinking like it is September 12th, 2001 again.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do you watch the direction that America is being taken in and feel powerless to stop it?
Do you believe that your voice isn’t loud enough to be heard above the noise anymore?
Do you read the headlines everyday and feel an empty pit in your stomach…as if you’re completely alone?
If you’ve answered YES, then you’ve fallen for the Wizard of Oz lie. While the voices you hear in the distance may sound intimidating, as if they surround us from all sides—the reality is very different. Once you pull back the curtain, you realize that there are only a few people pressing the buttons, and their voices are weak. The truth is that they don’t surround us at all.
We surround them.
At the origin of America, our Founding Fathers built this country on 28 powerful principles. These principles were culled from all over the world and from centuries of great thinkers. We have distilled the original 28 down to the 9 basic principles.
So, how do we show America what’s really behind the curtain? Read the nine simple principles. If you believe in at least seven of them, then we have something in common.
Welcome.
Friday, March 13, 2009
I liked what I saw on Glenn Beck today!
Do you watch the direction that America is being taken in and feel powerless to stop it? Do you believe that your voice isn’t loud enough to be heard above the noise anymore? Do you read the headlines everyday and feel an empty pit in your stomach…as if you’re completely alone? If so, then you’ve fallen for the Wizard of Oz lie. While the voices you hear in the distance may sound intimidating, as if they surround us from all sides—the reality is very different. Once you pull the curtain away you realize that there are only a few people pressing the buttons, and their voices are weak. The truth is that they don’t surround us at all.
We surround them. So, how do we show America what’s really behind the curtain? Below are nine simple principles. If you believe in at least seven of them, then we have something in common. I urge you to read the instructions at the end for how to help make your voice heard.
The Nine Principles
1. America is good.
2. I believe in God and He is the Center of my Life.
3. I must always try to be a more honest person than I was yesterday.
4. The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government.
5. If you break the law you pay the penalty. Justice is blind and no one is above it.
6. I have a right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is no guarantee of equal results.
7. I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to. Government cannot force me to be charitable.
8. It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion.
9. The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me.
Go here to see how you can make a difference in our country.
12 Values
Honesty
Reverence
Hope
Thrift
Humility
Charity
Sincerity
Moderation
Hard Work
Courage
Personal Responsibility
Gratitude
We surround them. So, how do we show America what’s really behind the curtain? Below are nine simple principles. If you believe in at least seven of them, then we have something in common. I urge you to read the instructions at the end for how to help make your voice heard.
The Nine Principles
1. America is good.
2. I believe in God and He is the Center of my Life.
3. I must always try to be a more honest person than I was yesterday.
4. The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government.
5. If you break the law you pay the penalty. Justice is blind and no one is above it.
6. I have a right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is no guarantee of equal results.
7. I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to. Government cannot force me to be charitable.
8. It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion.
9. The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me.
Go here to see how you can make a difference in our country.
12 Values
Honesty
Reverence
Hope
Thrift
Humility
Charity
Sincerity
Moderation
Hard Work
Courage
Personal Responsibility
Gratitude
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
I updated our blog....
James had throat surgery and has been under the weather. He is currently working at U-First's money merge account business and asks for your continued patience while he goes through hundreds of applications for the program. Meanwhile, I updated our blog and will regularly be putting more information on it. Thanks!
Books I'm reading...
Chris Stewart is my new favorite author. His writing is intelligent and relevant to today and the future. Are you prepared for the last days? If not I think these books will kick start your desire to become so. Here is what Deseret Book says about him. "Chris Stewart is a bestselling author and world-record-setting Air Force pilot whose previous military techno-thrillers have been selected by the Book of the Month Club and published in six different countries. He is the author of the highly acclaimed series The Great and Terrible, as well as A Christmas Bell for Anya, which was performed with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir during their 2005 Christmas concert. He has also been a guest editorialist for the Detroit News, commenting on matters of military readiness and national security. He is president of The Shipley Group, a nationally recognized consulting and training company and founder of the Utah Renaissance and Leadership Center. Chris and his wife, Evie, are the parents of six children and live in Utah."
It took me awhile to finish book 3 of the Great and Terrible series. I liked it a lot better than book 1 and 2, although those were great!
I loved this book more than the the other books. All I can say about this book is WOW! I read this book in 2 days because I was anxious to find out what would happen.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Red Envelope Day is March 31, 2009
To visit their website: http://www.RedEnvelopeDay.com
What:
Get red envelopes or postcards and mail them on March 31st to the White House
When: March 31st, 2009
On the front, address it to:
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington , D.C. 20500
On the back, write the following message.
This envelope represents one child who died because of an abortion.
It is empty because the life that was taken is now unable to be a part of our world.
Put it in the mail, and send it. Then forward this email to every one of your friends who you think would send one too. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died [in the U.S.] before having a chance to live.
It may seem that those who believe abortion is wrong are in a minority. It may seem like we have no voice and it's shameful to even bring it up. Let us show our President and the world that the voices of those of us who do not believe abortion is acceptable are not silent and must be heard.
Together we can change the heart of The President and save the lives of millions of children.
Barack Obama spoke at a Planned Parenthood Action Fund event, uttering the now infamous line, "Well, the first thing I'd do as president is, is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. [Applause.] That's the first thing that I'd do."
An empty red envelope will send a message to President Barack Obama that there is moral outrage in this country over this issue [The Freedom of Choice Act, which will essentially “undo” every law currently in place to limit abortion in the U.S. (i.e., parental consent laws, parental notification, waiting periods, prohibition of transporting a minor girl across state lines to obtain an abortion, etc.)]. It will be quiet, but clear.
All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good people do nothing.
My Sister in Law, Melissa has a new website...
She's great at finding lots of free stuff to do. So head on over here and see what free things she's doing with her family.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Sunday, March 1, 2009
think spring...
My Mom sent me this picture. I thought it was very cute and I am so ready for spring!!!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Reworking the Cauliflower soup....
I reworked the Cauliflower soup that I made the other day. I wanted to post what I did to change it since many children are picky eaters. My husband's children tell me everytime they come over that they are not vegetarians and they only eat meat. That's what they think! So here are the changes I made for the soup.
After putting the vegetables into the pot and letting it cook a little with the broth, I puree everything in the blender. I put it back into the pot and do everything else as directed except for wheat free people, I used tapioca flour to thicken the soup instead of regular flour.
The kids enjoyed the soup and I didn't tell them what was in it. I think if you want to feed your kids healthy vegetables and they won't eat them. HIDE THEM! The blender is my best friend. I also want this... the kitchen aid immersible blender. I use it at my friend's house and it's awesome.
After putting the vegetables into the pot and letting it cook a little with the broth, I puree everything in the blender. I put it back into the pot and do everything else as directed except for wheat free people, I used tapioca flour to thicken the soup instead of regular flour.
The kids enjoyed the soup and I didn't tell them what was in it. I think if you want to feed your kids healthy vegetables and they won't eat them. HIDE THEM! The blender is my best friend. I also want this... the kitchen aid immersible blender. I use it at my friend's house and it's awesome.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
It WORKED!!! I did it... and they're good...
I made gluten-free zucchini muffins.... and they are oh so tasty!!! I changed the recipe considerably... so here is:
Gluten-Free Orange Carrot-Zucchini muffins
3 eggs
1 C. oil
1 C. sugar
1 C. honey
1 C. shredded zucchini
1 C. shredded carrot
grated orange peel from two oranges and the juice
2 tsp. vanilla
1 C. white rice flour
1/2 C. brown rice flour
1 C. tapioca flour
1/4 C. potato flour
1/4 C. cornstarch
2 tsp. xanthan gum
3 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. baking powder
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat eggs until frothy, mix in oil, sugar, and honey. Stir in zucchini, carrot, orange peel, orange juice, and vanilla. Stir in all dry ingredients. Grease and flour (I used tapioca flour) 2 muffin tins, bake for 25 minutes. Makes 24 muffins.
Zucchini muffins
I think I'm going to try making zucchini muffins today without wheat flour. I'm going to use a combination of rice, tapioca, and potato flour. I'm also going to take out the sugar and add honey. I hope they turn out. Here is the original recipe. It is for bread, but I'm turning it into muffins and baking for 20-25 minutes.
3 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups white sugar
2 cups grated zucchini
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F ( 165 degrees C). Grease and flour two 8x4 inch loaf pans.
In a large bowl, beat eggs until light and frothy. Mix in oil and sugar. Stir in zucchini and vanilla. Combine flour, cinnamon, soda, baking powder, salt and nuts; stir into the egg mixture. Divide batter into prepared pans.
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until done.
3 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups white sugar
2 cups grated zucchini
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F ( 165 degrees C). Grease and flour two 8x4 inch loaf pans.
In a large bowl, beat eggs until light and frothy. Mix in oil and sugar. Stir in zucchini and vanilla. Combine flour, cinnamon, soda, baking powder, salt and nuts; stir into the egg mixture. Divide batter into prepared pans.
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until done.
Friday, February 20, 2009
This is what I'm making for dinner...
Here’s the recipe:
PW’s Mom’s Cauliflower Soup
I'm going to change the recipe a little though. I'm not going to use as much butter or the whole milk. I'm also don't cook any chicken in this house because James is allergic. Recipes are only suggestions anyway. Make it to suit your taste!
1 stick butter
1/2 onion, finely diced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 to 2 heads cauliflower, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh or dried parsley
2 quarts low-sodium chicken broth or stock
2 cups whole milk
6 tablespoons flour
1 cup half & half
2 to 4 teaspoons salt, to taste
1 generous cup sour cream, at room temperature
In a large soup pot or dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes, or until it starts to turn brown. Add the carrots and celery and cook an addition couple of minutes. Add cauliflower and parsley and stir to combine. Cover and cook over very low heat for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, pour in chicken stock or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and allow to simmer.
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Mix the flour with the milk and whisk to combine. Add flour-milk mixture slowly to the butter, whisking constantly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup half & half.
Add mixture to the simmering soup. Allow to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Check seasoning and add more salt or pepper if necessary.
Just before serving, place the sour cream in a serving bowl or soup tureen. Add two to three ladles of hot soup into the tureen and stir to combine with the sour cream. Pour in remaining soup and stir.
PW’s Mom’s Cauliflower Soup
I'm going to change the recipe a little though. I'm not going to use as much butter or the whole milk. I'm also don't cook any chicken in this house because James is allergic. Recipes are only suggestions anyway. Make it to suit your taste!
1 stick butter
1/2 onion, finely diced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 to 2 heads cauliflower, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh or dried parsley
2 quarts low-sodium chicken broth or stock
2 cups whole milk
6 tablespoons flour
1 cup half & half
2 to 4 teaspoons salt, to taste
1 generous cup sour cream, at room temperature
In a large soup pot or dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes, or until it starts to turn brown. Add the carrots and celery and cook an addition couple of minutes. Add cauliflower and parsley and stir to combine. Cover and cook over very low heat for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, pour in chicken stock or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and allow to simmer.
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Mix the flour with the milk and whisk to combine. Add flour-milk mixture slowly to the butter, whisking constantly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup half & half.
Add mixture to the simmering soup. Allow to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Check seasoning and add more salt or pepper if necessary.
Just before serving, place the sour cream in a serving bowl or soup tureen. Add two to three ladles of hot soup into the tureen and stir to combine with the sour cream. Pour in remaining soup and stir.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Obamanation signs the stimulus bill today...
and I'm worried.... VERY worried.
I found this article in Meridian Magazine and wanted to share it.
Stimulus Bill is “Generational Theft” By Maurine Proctor
On Friday Congress passed a $787 billion so-called stimulus bill that is, according to Sen. John McCain R-Ariz, “nothing short—nothing short—of generational theft.” Larry Summers, a former Clinton administration Treasury secretary said in an appearance on “NBC's Today show, “It is the biggest fiscal expansion in our country's history.”
This means we are saddling our children and grandchildren with a burden of debt whose end we cannot foresee—since, with interest, this bill alone, will be over $1.3 trillion—this on top of the trillion dollar “bailout” bill passed late last year.
Both the House and Senate earlier had passed a version of the stimulus bill, then had to confer in conference to come up together with the version of the bill passed Friday.
It was 1,073 pages and was posted online a little before 11:00 p.m. Thursday night, with major changes from the earlier version. Apparently an astonishing 104 government programs will be created or expanded through this legislation.
To pass a bill of this magnitude with so little analysis, one put together behind closed doors in conference without transparency, and no opportunity to read until the last minute, is staggeringly irresponsible.
Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) acknowledged, "I don't think anyone will have the chance to [read the entire bill]."
Congressman Tom Price, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, demonstrates in this Youtube video why no member of Congress could have digested the new conference version of the over 1,073 page “stimulus” bill in the few hours it was available to them before they voted.
This vote also broke the vow made Tuesday that Congress and the public would have at least 48 hours to look at the bill. Even if that had happened, 48 hours was an impossible number.
Feulner's Open Letter to Congress and the President of the United States
Edwin J. Feulner, president of the Heritage Foundation wrote of the bill in an open letter. You'll notice he gives a different number of pages for the bill. That's because upon until passage yesterday, the numbers kept changing:
“For the last 35 years, educators and analysts at The Heritage Foundation have been intimately involved in the nation's great public policy debates. In all that time, we have never encountered legislation with such far-reaching and revolutionary policy implications as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act currently before Congress. And never have we seen a bill more cloaked in secrecy or more withdrawn from open public exposure and honest debate.
“In addition to being the single most expensive bill ever proposed, this measure calls for a massive expansion of the federal government's reach into the day-to-day life of virtually every citizen, business and civic organization in the nation. That, in itself, should be the subject of an extensive public conversation and thoughtful debate. Instead, we have seen Congressional leaders schedule snap votes on a 1,434-page bill that no one—repeat, no one—has had a chance to read in its entirety, much less digest and deliberate.
“ This bill has been advertised as an economic stimulus bill—despite the fact that the Congressional Budget Office estimates it will actually weaken our nation's long-term economic growth . While the stimulative utility of the bill is, at best, questionable, it would unquestionably rewrite the social contract between the American people and their government. For example:
The bill reverses the bipartisan and highly successful welfare reforms of 1996 and drastically expands the welfare state . For instance, it will start rewarding states for adding people to their welfare rolls, rather than for helping them find gainful employment. And contrary to long-established practice, it will entitle able-bodied adults without children to receive cash assistance.
It does extreme violence to the concept of federalism —bailing out states that have spent irresponsibly at the expense of taxpayers in states that have been fiscally prudent.
It greatly shifts the responsibility and power over health care delivery and decision making from individuals to government. Among other things, it would create a new federal health board to decide which medical services are "effective" in America , paving the way for government effectively to overrule the clinical decisions of private physicians.
It deliberately censors religious speech and worship on school campuses by prohibiting use of any "stimulus" funds for facilities that are used for sectarian instruction, religious worship, or a school of divinity.
“The list goes on. These and similar provisions will mean fundamental changes in our society. In many instances, the bill would establish policies that directly challenge widely held American values.
“We are appalled that Congress is even contemplating such profound changes with so little openness and due diligence. In the past, major policy changes in our welfare system, or health care, or trade policies, etc., were always, quite properly, preceded by extensive public conversation and full debate. That is how a democracy should make important decisions.
The failure of Congress and the Administration to allow that debate is damaging to our democracy. To read the entire letter, click here.
I found this article in Meridian Magazine and wanted to share it.
Stimulus Bill is “Generational Theft” By Maurine Proctor
On Friday Congress passed a $787 billion so-called stimulus bill that is, according to Sen. John McCain R-Ariz, “nothing short—nothing short—of generational theft.” Larry Summers, a former Clinton administration Treasury secretary said in an appearance on “NBC's Today show, “It is the biggest fiscal expansion in our country's history.”
This means we are saddling our children and grandchildren with a burden of debt whose end we cannot foresee—since, with interest, this bill alone, will be over $1.3 trillion—this on top of the trillion dollar “bailout” bill passed late last year.
Both the House and Senate earlier had passed a version of the stimulus bill, then had to confer in conference to come up together with the version of the bill passed Friday.
It was 1,073 pages and was posted online a little before 11:00 p.m. Thursday night, with major changes from the earlier version. Apparently an astonishing 104 government programs will be created or expanded through this legislation.
To pass a bill of this magnitude with so little analysis, one put together behind closed doors in conference without transparency, and no opportunity to read until the last minute, is staggeringly irresponsible.
Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) acknowledged, "I don't think anyone will have the chance to [read the entire bill]."
Congressman Tom Price, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, demonstrates in this Youtube video why no member of Congress could have digested the new conference version of the over 1,073 page “stimulus” bill in the few hours it was available to them before they voted.
This vote also broke the vow made Tuesday that Congress and the public would have at least 48 hours to look at the bill. Even if that had happened, 48 hours was an impossible number.
Feulner's Open Letter to Congress and the President of the United States
Edwin J. Feulner, president of the Heritage Foundation wrote of the bill in an open letter. You'll notice he gives a different number of pages for the bill. That's because upon until passage yesterday, the numbers kept changing:
“For the last 35 years, educators and analysts at The Heritage Foundation have been intimately involved in the nation's great public policy debates. In all that time, we have never encountered legislation with such far-reaching and revolutionary policy implications as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act currently before Congress. And never have we seen a bill more cloaked in secrecy or more withdrawn from open public exposure and honest debate.
“In addition to being the single most expensive bill ever proposed, this measure calls for a massive expansion of the federal government's reach into the day-to-day life of virtually every citizen, business and civic organization in the nation. That, in itself, should be the subject of an extensive public conversation and thoughtful debate. Instead, we have seen Congressional leaders schedule snap votes on a 1,434-page bill that no one—repeat, no one—has had a chance to read in its entirety, much less digest and deliberate.
“ This bill has been advertised as an economic stimulus bill—despite the fact that the Congressional Budget Office estimates it will actually weaken our nation's long-term economic growth . While the stimulative utility of the bill is, at best, questionable, it would unquestionably rewrite the social contract between the American people and their government. For example:
The bill reverses the bipartisan and highly successful welfare reforms of 1996 and drastically expands the welfare state . For instance, it will start rewarding states for adding people to their welfare rolls, rather than for helping them find gainful employment. And contrary to long-established practice, it will entitle able-bodied adults without children to receive cash assistance.
It does extreme violence to the concept of federalism —bailing out states that have spent irresponsibly at the expense of taxpayers in states that have been fiscally prudent.
It greatly shifts the responsibility and power over health care delivery and decision making from individuals to government. Among other things, it would create a new federal health board to decide which medical services are "effective" in America , paving the way for government effectively to overrule the clinical decisions of private physicians.
It deliberately censors religious speech and worship on school campuses by prohibiting use of any "stimulus" funds for facilities that are used for sectarian instruction, religious worship, or a school of divinity.
“The list goes on. These and similar provisions will mean fundamental changes in our society. In many instances, the bill would establish policies that directly challenge widely held American values.
“We are appalled that Congress is even contemplating such profound changes with so little openness and due diligence. In the past, major policy changes in our welfare system, or health care, or trade policies, etc., were always, quite properly, preceded by extensive public conversation and full debate. That is how a democracy should make important decisions.
The failure of Congress and the Administration to allow that debate is damaging to our democracy. To read the entire letter, click here.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Happy President's Day!
When I was growing up, my Mom always made us a cherry pie for President's Day. I miss that pie. I don't make it because it has a lot of dairy in it, which my stomach doesn't like too well and James doesn't like cherries. Thanks for making it for us when we were growing up Mom because I don't eat it now! 
Washington was born on February 22, 1732. I wonder what it was like to have a President who was humble, believed in God, and used prayer for guidance in directing the nation? That sounds pretty wonderful to me.
Chester A. Arthur dedicated the Washington Monument on Dec. 6, 1884. I really enjoyed reading it.
DEDICATION OF THE WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT
Before the dawn of the century whose eventful years will soon have faded into the past-when death had but lately robbed this republic of its most beloved and illustrious citizen-the Congress of the United States pledged the faith of the nation that in this city, bearing his honored name and then as now the seat of the general government, a monument should be erected to commemorate the great events of his military and political life." The stately column that stretches heavenward from the plain whereon we stand bears witness to all who behold it that the covenant which our fathers made their children have fulfilled.
In the completion of this great work of patriotic endeavor there is abundant cause for national rejoicing, for while this structure shall endure it shall be to all mankind a steadfast token of the affectionate and reverent regard in which this people continue to hold the memory of Washington. Well may he ever keep the foremost place in the hearts of his countrymen. The faith that never faltered; the wisdom that was broader and deeper than any learning taught in schools; the courage that shrank from no peril and was dismayed by no defeat; the loyalty that kept all selfish purpose subordinate to the demands of patriotism and honor; the sagacity that displayed itself in camp and cabinet alike, and above all that harmonious union of moral and intellectual qualities which has never found its parallel among men-these are the attributes of character which the intelligent thought of this century ascribes to the grandest figure of the last. But other and more eloquent lips than mine will today rehearse to you the story of his noble life and its glorious achievements. To myself has been assigned a simpler and moral formal duty, in fulfillment of which I do now, as president of the United States and in behalf of the people, receive this monument from the hands of its builder and declare it dedicated from this time forth to the immortal name and memory of George Washington.
On Washington's Monument, on the east side of the 100-ounce aluminum cap is an engraving of "LAUS DEO," which is Latin for "Praise be to God."
Washington was born on February 22, 1732. I wonder what it was like to have a President who was humble, believed in God, and used prayer for guidance in directing the nation? That sounds pretty wonderful to me. Chester A. Arthur dedicated the Washington Monument on Dec. 6, 1884. I really enjoyed reading it.
DEDICATION OF THE WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT
Before the dawn of the century whose eventful years will soon have faded into the past-when death had but lately robbed this republic of its most beloved and illustrious citizen-the Congress of the United States pledged the faith of the nation that in this city, bearing his honored name and then as now the seat of the general government, a monument should be erected to commemorate the great events of his military and political life." The stately column that stretches heavenward from the plain whereon we stand bears witness to all who behold it that the covenant which our fathers made their children have fulfilled.
In the completion of this great work of patriotic endeavor there is abundant cause for national rejoicing, for while this structure shall endure it shall be to all mankind a steadfast token of the affectionate and reverent regard in which this people continue to hold the memory of Washington. Well may he ever keep the foremost place in the hearts of his countrymen. The faith that never faltered; the wisdom that was broader and deeper than any learning taught in schools; the courage that shrank from no peril and was dismayed by no defeat; the loyalty that kept all selfish purpose subordinate to the demands of patriotism and honor; the sagacity that displayed itself in camp and cabinet alike, and above all that harmonious union of moral and intellectual qualities which has never found its parallel among men-these are the attributes of character which the intelligent thought of this century ascribes to the grandest figure of the last. But other and more eloquent lips than mine will today rehearse to you the story of his noble life and its glorious achievements. To myself has been assigned a simpler and moral formal duty, in fulfillment of which I do now, as president of the United States and in behalf of the people, receive this monument from the hands of its builder and declare it dedicated from this time forth to the immortal name and memory of George Washington.
On Washington's Monument, on the east side of the 100-ounce aluminum cap is an engraving of "LAUS DEO," which is Latin for "Praise be to God."
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Friday, February 13, 2009
Pay it forward...
My friend is doing something called Pay it forward. She's making a handmade gift for those who leave a comment on her blog. The first three who comment will receive a handmade gift from her. So I'm doing the same...
Thursday, February 12, 2009
In honor of Abraham Lincoln's birthday: Feb. 12, 1809
Gettysburg address: Nov. 18, 1863
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might lives far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion--that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
My new favorite series...
This is the first book, The Brothers: The Great and Terrible by Chris Stewart . It's the first in a series of 6. I'm really looking forward to the second book. Happy Reading!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Saturday, February 7, 2009
This is why women should not take men shopping against their will.
After I retired 6 months ago, my wife insisted that I accompany her on her trips to Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, like most men, I found shopping boring so I had to amuse myself in some way while my wife did what most women like to do - browse at a leisurely pace.
Yesterday my dear wife received the following letter from the local Wal-Mart:
Dear Mrs. Samsel,
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and have been forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Samsel are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's carts when they weren't looking.
2 . July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.
3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the20women's restroom.
4. July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice, 'Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away. '
5. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M's on layaway.
6. August 14: Moved a 'CAUTION - WET FLOOR' sign to a carpeted area.
7. August 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets from the bedding department.
8. August 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him, he began crying and screamed, 'Why can't you people just leave me alone?'
9. September 4: Looked right into the security camera and used I t as a mirror while he picked his nose.
10. September 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked the clerk where the antidepressants were.
11. October 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly humm ing the 'Mission Impossible' theme.
12. October 6: In the auto department, he practiced his 'Madonna look' by using different sizes of funnels.
13. October 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed through, yelled 'PICK ME! PICK ME!'
14. October 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he assumed a fetal position and screamed 'OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!'
And last, but not least .
15. October 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile, then yelled very loudly, 'Hey! There's no toilet paper in here!'
Yesterday my dear wife received the following letter from the local Wal-Mart:
Dear Mrs. Samsel,
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and have been forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Samsel are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's carts when they weren't looking.
2 . July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.
3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the20women's restroom.
4. July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice, 'Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away. '
5. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M's on layaway.
6. August 14: Moved a 'CAUTION - WET FLOOR' sign to a carpeted area.
7. August 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets from the bedding department.
8. August 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him, he began crying and screamed, 'Why can't you people just leave me alone?'
9. September 4: Looked right into the security camera and used I t as a mirror while he picked his nose.
10. September 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked the clerk where the antidepressants were.
11. October 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly humm ing the 'Mission Impossible' theme.
12. October 6: In the auto department, he practiced his 'Madonna look' by using different sizes of funnels.
13. October 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed through, yelled 'PICK ME! PICK ME!'
14. October 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he assumed a fetal position and screamed 'OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!'
And last, but not least .
15. October 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile, then yelled very loudly, 'Hey! There's no toilet paper in here!'
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
the next 6 weeks
I am going to be wheat free. I have been sick for the past year. I seem to go from one illness to the next with barely a repreve in the middle. My Mom told me that I was allergic to wheat when I was a baby and since I seem to be getting back the same allergies that I had then.... I may be intolerant to wheat. So for the next 6 weeks, I am cutting out all wheat. Hello rice, tapioca, bean, and other weird floured breads! When I get better, I want to make this...
Wheat Free Bagels
INGREDIENTS
140 g rice flour
130 g tapioca flour
2 tbsp dry milk powder
1¾ tsp xanthan gum
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
100 ml warm water
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp dried yeast
2 tbsp low fat spread, margarine or butter
50 ml hot water
2 large egg whites
rice flour for dusting and hands
1 tsp sugar for bagel coating
INSTRUCTIONS
Place the rice flour, tapioca flour, dry milk powder, xanthan gum, salt and sugar in a mixer or food processor.
2. Dissolve the low fat spread in the hot water, stirring well to dissolve completely.
3. In a separate bowl containing the warm water stir in the sugar, until dissolved. Then sprinkle the yeast on top and leave for a few minutes to foam.
4. Return to the dry ingredients and blend them together with the mixer on a low setting. Pour in the dissolved fat in hot water and mix together, they will not mix very well at the
moment.
5. Add the egg whites and the yeast mixture to the bowl and again on a low setting mix together.
6. By now the ingredients should have all mixed together thoroughly, and the dough will be thick, so that it will hold a shape. If not thick enough add a little more rice flour, mix and check the consistency again. If the mix is too thick then add small amounts of water until the consistency appears to be correct and will hold a shape.
7. Set the mixer onto a high setting and beat for 4 - 5 minutes. If making these bagels by hand beating with a wooden spoon this is where the calories get burnt!
8. Prepare baking sheets by either lining with baking sheets or parchment, or lightly spraying with oil and dusting with rice flour.
9. Divide the bagel mix into 8 equals portions, or 6 for slightly larger ones. Ensuring that you keep your hands either greased or floured (with rice flour), roll the portions into balls then flatten them slightly and poke a hole in the centre and widen it. You will need to make the hole quite wide or it will close up (see our photo for failed holes).
10. Put the bagels on the baking sheets and loosely cover with plastic, leave in a warm place until they have doubled in size. Approximately 30 - 60 minutes depending on the yeast type used.
11. Bagels traditionally have a slightly crisp shiny coating. This is accomplished by bringing a saucepan of water to the boil and dissolving 1 tsp of sugar in it. When the water is on a rolling boil gently drop a bagel into it, after 30 seconds carefully turn the bagel over, after another 30
seconds remove the bagel using a draining spoon and place onto the baking sheet.
12. When all the bagels have been boiled in the sugar water put the bagels into the oven and bake for 20 - 22 minutes, depending on size. The smell while they are cooking is fabulous.
These bagels are at their very best when they have slightly cooled from the oven. Still warm and yeasty the outside is crisp and the inside soft and chewy, just like a real bagel should be. Absolutely wonderful with smoked salmon and thick cream cheese, or simply unadulterated. The wheatfree bread recipe is ready to serve.
Wheat Free Bagels
INGREDIENTS
140 g rice flour
130 g tapioca flour
2 tbsp dry milk powder
1¾ tsp xanthan gum
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
100 ml warm water
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp dried yeast
2 tbsp low fat spread, margarine or butter
50 ml hot water
2 large egg whites
rice flour for dusting and hands
1 tsp sugar for bagel coating
INSTRUCTIONS
Place the rice flour, tapioca flour, dry milk powder, xanthan gum, salt and sugar in a mixer or food processor.
2. Dissolve the low fat spread in the hot water, stirring well to dissolve completely.
3. In a separate bowl containing the warm water stir in the sugar, until dissolved. Then sprinkle the yeast on top and leave for a few minutes to foam.
4. Return to the dry ingredients and blend them together with the mixer on a low setting. Pour in the dissolved fat in hot water and mix together, they will not mix very well at the
moment.
5. Add the egg whites and the yeast mixture to the bowl and again on a low setting mix together.
6. By now the ingredients should have all mixed together thoroughly, and the dough will be thick, so that it will hold a shape. If not thick enough add a little more rice flour, mix and check the consistency again. If the mix is too thick then add small amounts of water until the consistency appears to be correct and will hold a shape.
7. Set the mixer onto a high setting and beat for 4 - 5 minutes. If making these bagels by hand beating with a wooden spoon this is where the calories get burnt!
8. Prepare baking sheets by either lining with baking sheets or parchment, or lightly spraying with oil and dusting with rice flour.
9. Divide the bagel mix into 8 equals portions, or 6 for slightly larger ones. Ensuring that you keep your hands either greased or floured (with rice flour), roll the portions into balls then flatten them slightly and poke a hole in the centre and widen it. You will need to make the hole quite wide or it will close up (see our photo for failed holes).
10. Put the bagels on the baking sheets and loosely cover with plastic, leave in a warm place until they have doubled in size. Approximately 30 - 60 minutes depending on the yeast type used.
11. Bagels traditionally have a slightly crisp shiny coating. This is accomplished by bringing a saucepan of water to the boil and dissolving 1 tsp of sugar in it. When the water is on a rolling boil gently drop a bagel into it, after 30 seconds carefully turn the bagel over, after another 30
seconds remove the bagel using a draining spoon and place onto the baking sheet.
12. When all the bagels have been boiled in the sugar water put the bagels into the oven and bake for 20 - 22 minutes, depending on size. The smell while they are cooking is fabulous.
These bagels are at their very best when they have slightly cooled from the oven. Still warm and yeasty the outside is crisp and the inside soft and chewy, just like a real bagel should be. Absolutely wonderful with smoked salmon and thick cream cheese, or simply unadulterated. The wheatfree bread recipe is ready to serve.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Marriage/Divorce
Church Leaders Urge Us to Stay Married
By Gary and Joy Lundberg
We wish we could stand on the rooftops and shout to all the world, “Stay married!” We can't, but our Church leaders are actually doing it through the airwaves as General Conferences are broadcast worldwide. Their continual plea is for couples to work out problems, stay married and create an eternal family.
At General Conference April, 2007, Elder Dallin H. Oaks said, “Now I speak to married members, especially to any who may be considering divorce. I strongly urge you and those who advise you to face up to the reality that for most marriage problems, the remedy is not divorce but repentance. Often the cause is not incompatibility but selfishness. The first step is not separation but reformation. Divorce is not an all-purpose solution, and it often creates long-term heartache. (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
In his nationally published book, Standing for Something, President Gordon B. Hinckley devoted an entire section to the importance of marriage. He made the plea to all the world: “Get married and stay married.” (p. 146) We suggest you read or reread these two chapters, What God Hath Joined Together and We can Save our Nation by Saving our Homes. You will see again why staying married is so vitally important to yourself, your children, and society.
The Ripple Effect
Sadly, divorces are happening everywhere, and far too many in Latter-day Saint families. The fallout is horrendous, greater than any of these couples can imagine. When a marriage breaks up, not only are the children of the couple damaged, and they are, but so is every family who knows them. The ripple effect is significant. It's a little like suicide, when one happens it often brings about others in that community. It becomes the “easy” way out, which could never be further from the truth. And so it is with divorce. It spreads.
Children of intact families are watching what's happening to other families and they become fearful that divorce will happen to their parents or to them“if” they get married. Seeds of fear and distrust are planted. Some divorcing parents say “My children will get over it and everything will be fine.” That's a lie. They will never get over it. Even if they wear a happy face, their hearts are aching.
We saw this vividly when serving as bishop on BYU campus. A young student with divorced parents bore her testimony and cried, saying her only dream was to be walking with her mother on one side and her father on the other. She said, “I just want to be with both of them at the same time.” The divorce had happened many years before when she was a small child. The heartache lingers on and on throughout the child's life.
An Alarming Trend
Tragically, divorce is becoming the fashionable thing to do. It's even glorified in some settings. The hue and cry of the world is: “If you're married and not happy, then get out of the marriage. That must be the problem, so move on and find happiness somewhere else.” On a recent popular talk show we saw a woman proclaiming this very thing: she wasn't happy, so she divorced and moved on. It appeared she had little thought for her children, or her spouse who had given so much to her through the years, including fidelity. She just wanted to try new things and move on to a “more fulfilling” life for herself, seemingly blind to the pain her decision caused to so many others.
When this happens, the women who make these decisions feel a need to justify their actions and often write articles, books, and proclaim to the world that this is the way to happiness. The woman on this show boasted that she was having a marvelous spiritual experience for herself. It was all about “me”. Our hearts ached for the innocent victims of her self-gratification.
Oh, the craftiness of Satan! He works with tireless effort and cunning to move people out of the very thing that will bring them the greatest happiness and into that which will eventually bring them the greatest sorrow. Remember, his goal is “that all men might be miserable like unto himself.” (2 Nephi 2:27)
Regretting Divorce
We have met with many women who divorced and later wished they had never done it. Same with men. Even those with a stable second marriages have expressed their regrets.
A man whose wife divorced him told us, “I should have stayed and fought for my family. She told me to move out and said if I did she would work with me and we could have a peaceful divorce, ‘for the children's sake.' So I left, to keep the peace. That was many years ago. The result is that my children claim I abandoned them, even though I didn't want the divorce and did all in my power to be with them. She turned them against me. I should have stayed in our home and insisted we work out the problems together. My children are grown and are a mess as a result of this divorce. On their visits to my new home they put my second wife, an angel of a woman, through a literal hell as she tried to show her love to them. My advice is: Don't leave, find a way to make it work.”
As we visited with a couple at one of our retreats they both, sitting together at dinner with us, said, “This is our second marriage. Even though we love each other we both wish we had stayed married to our first spouse. A second marriage is extremely difficult. We wish we had put this much effort into our first marriage and made it work. This is so difficult for us and our children. Please tell others contemplating divorce what we have said. Happiness isn't on the other side of the fence.”
Some are Justified
Of course, there are some divorces that are justified. When continual abuse and unrepentant infidelity occur, then serious action is required. In these cases divorce may be the only option.
Elder Oaks said, “There are many good Church members who have been divorced. . . .We know that many of you are innocent victims—members whose former spouses persistently betrayed sacred covenants or abandoned or refused to perform marriage responsibilities for an extended period. Members who have experienced such abuse have firsthand knowledge of circumstances worse than divorce.”
Elder Oaks went on to say, “We know that some look back on their divorces with regret at their own partial or predominant fault in the breakup. All who have been through divorce know the pain and need the healing power and hope that come from the Atonement. That healing power and that hope are there for them and also for their children.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
Second Marriages
There are many second marriages that work out well, but nothing restores the family like the biological or adoptive parents staying together and finding happiness as a family. Everyone in a second, third or more marriage, who may be reading this article, we encourage you to do everything in your power to make the marriage you are in a lasting and happy one. Let your children see you working at making it work.
Most Problems Can Be Resolved
Generally speaking, divorces occur over problems that can be resolved. With a few changes marriages can be saved. A woman who came to us was ready to divorce her husband because of his abusive tongue, the name calling and disrespectful way he treated her, along with drinking. We worked with her in helping her realize the importance of setting personal boundaries by being kind, gentle, respectful and firm.
It took time, patience and consistency on her part, but the results were amazing. He now treats her with respect and has become fully active in the Church and they have now been sealed in the temple. She said, “He's a wonderful husband and father now. It scares me to think how close I came to divorcing him.” We've seen this same scenario over and over. When people work at it, marriages can be saved and become beautiful and lasting. They just have to be willing to pay the price.
When couples have an eternal perspective with the happiness of their family in focus, these changes can be made and happiness not only restored, but increased beyond what they had before.
Selfishness
When married people are not happy, marriage is not the problem. Selfishness is. Women who say they just aren't happy and want out have their heads buried in the sand, or perhaps more accurately, in the laundry. We were impressed with the recent Ensign article A Reflection on Gratitude by Michelle Van Tassell ( Ensign , February 2009, p. 18-19).
She tells of the unhappiness she was experiencing and how disappointed she was with a marriage she thought had divine confirmation. She had become critical of her husband and blamed him for her unhappiness and was considering divorcing him. She had prayed for help and yet felt abandoned by the Lord. Then she said, “One morning I was doing laundry when I caught a glance of myself in a mirror. The reflection surprised me. I had not showered or groomed for the day, and as I looked at myself, I thought I was lucky that anyone would want to wake up next to me every day. For the first time, I found myself feeling grateful to my husband for loving me. I examined myself with new eyes and thought about our marriage from his perspective.”
It was an awakening for her. She said, “That simple moment changed my perspective as well as my relationship with my husband.” They now have a happy marriage. This article is well worth reading to find more about what she discovered.
Very often it's the husbands who need to wake up. Too often when a woman is ready to divorce, she complains that her husband was just plain dense to her needs. These women reach a limit at which they see no return. The husband is blind-sided. He's stunned. It's like, Boom! Where did that come from? He had no idea his wife would actually consider divorcing him. He's happy in his own little world, oblivious to what's causing her misery.
Sometimes we shake our heads and wonder why he didn't see his part in the problem. He fails to appreciate all she does in keeping the family going—cooking, cleaning, and mothering their children. He fails to compliment her, but rather criticizes her for not doing more, or for her weight or other personal flaws he may see in her. Or he may be failing in holding up his end of the family needs, such as fixing what's broken, taking care of the yard and the home repairs, helping kids with homework, etc. Being a good husband is far more than earning a living. It's coming home and pitching in.
Money Problems
Sometimes with women it's being disappointed that the man she married doesn't make the kind of money her friend's husband makes. She can't buy all the extras her friend has, or she's sick of having to help bring in some of the money for the family needs. Some women turn to credit cards to make up for the deficit and that only increases the stress on the marriage.
A woman we know left her husband to marry a financially successful divorced man. She left the Church and chose the world instead. Her children have lost far more than a married father and mother. They lost the opportunity to be raised in the Church by two faithful parents. The father is trying to teach them, but they live with her and she has the greater influence. Problems with the children are already brewing. It's a terrible trade-off. There are far worse things than having to struggle financially.
Sometimes couples go into debt in an effort to live a better lifestyle. Debt can be devastating. Couples dealing with this problem need serious financial counseling. Help is available. Your bishop may be able to guide you to a financial advisor. One source of help is Dave Ramsey's book The Total Money Makeover. Getting on a firm financial base can bring a lot of peace into marriage. And it's not about how much you make, it's about what you do with what you have.
All of these issues can be resolved. Changes can happen. Couples can find ways to work out their problems and secure their family's happiness. It takes work, but is the most vitally important work anyone will ever do.
Elder Oaks said, “Of course, there can be times when one spouse falls short and the other is wounded and feels pain. When that happens, the one who is wronged should balance current disappointments against the good of the past and the brighter prospects of the future.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
Society is Counting on You
Married couples owe it to society to stay married. They made sacred vows to stay together, even through very tough times. The stability of a society is damaged by every divorce that happens. Sometimes couples forget that they will be accountable to God for breaking those sacred marital vows. We made those covenants with Him and He is there to help us keep them in every way possible, we just need to call on Him and pay attention to the help He has already given.
This help comes from our attendance at church meetings and the temple, through Church magazines and lessons, and from His servants, the prophets. President Hinckley put a great emphasis on marriage, as have all the latter-day prophets. At a BYU Married Students Regional Conference, Feb. 11, 1996 he said, “I want to talk to you a little about your homes. I do not care whether they are simple and small or fancy and large; I care about the spirit of those homes. I want to suggest some cornerstones on which to build homes. . . I do not hesitate to promise that if you will go to your homes and cultivate and nurture it among these four cornerstones, your life will be happy and fruitful. . . .There will be tough times, of course. We all have them.”
President Hinckley's four cornerstones:
1. “Mutual respect . Respect one another. . . . that respect which comes of the knowledge that she is a daughter of God and that I am a son of God—His children, and that if I offend her, I offend our Father in Heaven. Never forget that-mutual respect, the kind of respect that manifests itself in courtesy and kindness and patience and forgiveness and deference . . [then] there will be happiness in your lives.”
2 . “The soft answer. It was said of old that ‘a soft answer turneth away wrath' (Prov. 15:1) . Learn to speak quietly in the house . . . when we lift our voices tiny molehills become great mountains of conflict . . .Quiet speech is the speech of peace . . . of harmony . . . of love. Keep your voices down.”
3 . “Financial honesty. If you want to get ahead in life, live honestly with the Lord and then you will be more inclined to live honestly with others, including honestly with each other.”
4. “Prayer. Get on your knees together, husband and wife, taking your turns thanking the Lord for one another and invoking His blessings upon your dreams, your hopes, your ambitions, your lives, and your children . . .” ( Church News, Feb. 17, 1996, p. 3-4)
It's a Choice
A Latter-day Saint sister from Arizona recently told us that as a young married woman she made a conscious decision about her marriage. She said, “I told myself I could have a crummy marriage or a good one. It's up to me. I chose to work hard and have a good marriage.” Many years later her two nieces, whose parents divorced, came to her and said, “We want what you have.” She realized then how her decision had influenced others beyond her immediate family. Whether we like it or not, we are training the next generation of husbands and wives. Let's give them the example our Church leaders are pleading for us to give.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “The gospel of Jesus Christ has the divine power to lift you to great heights from what appears at times to be an unbearable burden or weakness. The Lord knows your circumstances and your challenges. He said to Paul and to all of us,‘My grace is sufficient for thee.'” ( Ensign, Nov. 2007, 19)
Decide now to be happy in your marriage, seek the Lord's help, and then do whatever it takes to make it happen. Be committed to stay married.
By Gary and Joy Lundberg
We wish we could stand on the rooftops and shout to all the world, “Stay married!” We can't, but our Church leaders are actually doing it through the airwaves as General Conferences are broadcast worldwide. Their continual plea is for couples to work out problems, stay married and create an eternal family.
At General Conference April, 2007, Elder Dallin H. Oaks said, “Now I speak to married members, especially to any who may be considering divorce. I strongly urge you and those who advise you to face up to the reality that for most marriage problems, the remedy is not divorce but repentance. Often the cause is not incompatibility but selfishness. The first step is not separation but reformation. Divorce is not an all-purpose solution, and it often creates long-term heartache. (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
In his nationally published book, Standing for Something, President Gordon B. Hinckley devoted an entire section to the importance of marriage. He made the plea to all the world: “Get married and stay married.” (p. 146) We suggest you read or reread these two chapters, What God Hath Joined Together and We can Save our Nation by Saving our Homes. You will see again why staying married is so vitally important to yourself, your children, and society.
The Ripple Effect
Sadly, divorces are happening everywhere, and far too many in Latter-day Saint families. The fallout is horrendous, greater than any of these couples can imagine. When a marriage breaks up, not only are the children of the couple damaged, and they are, but so is every family who knows them. The ripple effect is significant. It's a little like suicide, when one happens it often brings about others in that community. It becomes the “easy” way out, which could never be further from the truth. And so it is with divorce. It spreads.
Children of intact families are watching what's happening to other families and they become fearful that divorce will happen to their parents or to them“if” they get married. Seeds of fear and distrust are planted. Some divorcing parents say “My children will get over it and everything will be fine.” That's a lie. They will never get over it. Even if they wear a happy face, their hearts are aching.
We saw this vividly when serving as bishop on BYU campus. A young student with divorced parents bore her testimony and cried, saying her only dream was to be walking with her mother on one side and her father on the other. She said, “I just want to be with both of them at the same time.” The divorce had happened many years before when she was a small child. The heartache lingers on and on throughout the child's life.
An Alarming Trend
Tragically, divorce is becoming the fashionable thing to do. It's even glorified in some settings. The hue and cry of the world is: “If you're married and not happy, then get out of the marriage. That must be the problem, so move on and find happiness somewhere else.” On a recent popular talk show we saw a woman proclaiming this very thing: she wasn't happy, so she divorced and moved on. It appeared she had little thought for her children, or her spouse who had given so much to her through the years, including fidelity. She just wanted to try new things and move on to a “more fulfilling” life for herself, seemingly blind to the pain her decision caused to so many others.
When this happens, the women who make these decisions feel a need to justify their actions and often write articles, books, and proclaim to the world that this is the way to happiness. The woman on this show boasted that she was having a marvelous spiritual experience for herself. It was all about “me”. Our hearts ached for the innocent victims of her self-gratification.
Oh, the craftiness of Satan! He works with tireless effort and cunning to move people out of the very thing that will bring them the greatest happiness and into that which will eventually bring them the greatest sorrow. Remember, his goal is “that all men might be miserable like unto himself.” (2 Nephi 2:27)
Regretting Divorce
We have met with many women who divorced and later wished they had never done it. Same with men. Even those with a stable second marriages have expressed their regrets.
A man whose wife divorced him told us, “I should have stayed and fought for my family. She told me to move out and said if I did she would work with me and we could have a peaceful divorce, ‘for the children's sake.' So I left, to keep the peace. That was many years ago. The result is that my children claim I abandoned them, even though I didn't want the divorce and did all in my power to be with them. She turned them against me. I should have stayed in our home and insisted we work out the problems together. My children are grown and are a mess as a result of this divorce. On their visits to my new home they put my second wife, an angel of a woman, through a literal hell as she tried to show her love to them. My advice is: Don't leave, find a way to make it work.”
As we visited with a couple at one of our retreats they both, sitting together at dinner with us, said, “This is our second marriage. Even though we love each other we both wish we had stayed married to our first spouse. A second marriage is extremely difficult. We wish we had put this much effort into our first marriage and made it work. This is so difficult for us and our children. Please tell others contemplating divorce what we have said. Happiness isn't on the other side of the fence.”
Some are Justified
Of course, there are some divorces that are justified. When continual abuse and unrepentant infidelity occur, then serious action is required. In these cases divorce may be the only option.
Elder Oaks said, “There are many good Church members who have been divorced. . . .We know that many of you are innocent victims—members whose former spouses persistently betrayed sacred covenants or abandoned or refused to perform marriage responsibilities for an extended period. Members who have experienced such abuse have firsthand knowledge of circumstances worse than divorce.”
Elder Oaks went on to say, “We know that some look back on their divorces with regret at their own partial or predominant fault in the breakup. All who have been through divorce know the pain and need the healing power and hope that come from the Atonement. That healing power and that hope are there for them and also for their children.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
Second Marriages
There are many second marriages that work out well, but nothing restores the family like the biological or adoptive parents staying together and finding happiness as a family. Everyone in a second, third or more marriage, who may be reading this article, we encourage you to do everything in your power to make the marriage you are in a lasting and happy one. Let your children see you working at making it work.
Most Problems Can Be Resolved
Generally speaking, divorces occur over problems that can be resolved. With a few changes marriages can be saved. A woman who came to us was ready to divorce her husband because of his abusive tongue, the name calling and disrespectful way he treated her, along with drinking. We worked with her in helping her realize the importance of setting personal boundaries by being kind, gentle, respectful and firm.
It took time, patience and consistency on her part, but the results were amazing. He now treats her with respect and has become fully active in the Church and they have now been sealed in the temple. She said, “He's a wonderful husband and father now. It scares me to think how close I came to divorcing him.” We've seen this same scenario over and over. When people work at it, marriages can be saved and become beautiful and lasting. They just have to be willing to pay the price.
When couples have an eternal perspective with the happiness of their family in focus, these changes can be made and happiness not only restored, but increased beyond what they had before.
Selfishness
When married people are not happy, marriage is not the problem. Selfishness is. Women who say they just aren't happy and want out have their heads buried in the sand, or perhaps more accurately, in the laundry. We were impressed with the recent Ensign article A Reflection on Gratitude by Michelle Van Tassell ( Ensign , February 2009, p. 18-19).
She tells of the unhappiness she was experiencing and how disappointed she was with a marriage she thought had divine confirmation. She had become critical of her husband and blamed him for her unhappiness and was considering divorcing him. She had prayed for help and yet felt abandoned by the Lord. Then she said, “One morning I was doing laundry when I caught a glance of myself in a mirror. The reflection surprised me. I had not showered or groomed for the day, and as I looked at myself, I thought I was lucky that anyone would want to wake up next to me every day. For the first time, I found myself feeling grateful to my husband for loving me. I examined myself with new eyes and thought about our marriage from his perspective.”
It was an awakening for her. She said, “That simple moment changed my perspective as well as my relationship with my husband.” They now have a happy marriage. This article is well worth reading to find more about what she discovered.
Very often it's the husbands who need to wake up. Too often when a woman is ready to divorce, she complains that her husband was just plain dense to her needs. These women reach a limit at which they see no return. The husband is blind-sided. He's stunned. It's like, Boom! Where did that come from? He had no idea his wife would actually consider divorcing him. He's happy in his own little world, oblivious to what's causing her misery.
Sometimes we shake our heads and wonder why he didn't see his part in the problem. He fails to appreciate all she does in keeping the family going—cooking, cleaning, and mothering their children. He fails to compliment her, but rather criticizes her for not doing more, or for her weight or other personal flaws he may see in her. Or he may be failing in holding up his end of the family needs, such as fixing what's broken, taking care of the yard and the home repairs, helping kids with homework, etc. Being a good husband is far more than earning a living. It's coming home and pitching in.
Money Problems
Sometimes with women it's being disappointed that the man she married doesn't make the kind of money her friend's husband makes. She can't buy all the extras her friend has, or she's sick of having to help bring in some of the money for the family needs. Some women turn to credit cards to make up for the deficit and that only increases the stress on the marriage.
A woman we know left her husband to marry a financially successful divorced man. She left the Church and chose the world instead. Her children have lost far more than a married father and mother. They lost the opportunity to be raised in the Church by two faithful parents. The father is trying to teach them, but they live with her and she has the greater influence. Problems with the children are already brewing. It's a terrible trade-off. There are far worse things than having to struggle financially.
Sometimes couples go into debt in an effort to live a better lifestyle. Debt can be devastating. Couples dealing with this problem need serious financial counseling. Help is available. Your bishop may be able to guide you to a financial advisor. One source of help is Dave Ramsey's book The Total Money Makeover. Getting on a firm financial base can bring a lot of peace into marriage. And it's not about how much you make, it's about what you do with what you have.
All of these issues can be resolved. Changes can happen. Couples can find ways to work out their problems and secure their family's happiness. It takes work, but is the most vitally important work anyone will ever do.
Elder Oaks said, “Of course, there can be times when one spouse falls short and the other is wounded and feels pain. When that happens, the one who is wronged should balance current disappointments against the good of the past and the brighter prospects of the future.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce,” Ensign, May 2007, 70–73)
Society is Counting on You
Married couples owe it to society to stay married. They made sacred vows to stay together, even through very tough times. The stability of a society is damaged by every divorce that happens. Sometimes couples forget that they will be accountable to God for breaking those sacred marital vows. We made those covenants with Him and He is there to help us keep them in every way possible, we just need to call on Him and pay attention to the help He has already given.
This help comes from our attendance at church meetings and the temple, through Church magazines and lessons, and from His servants, the prophets. President Hinckley put a great emphasis on marriage, as have all the latter-day prophets. At a BYU Married Students Regional Conference, Feb. 11, 1996 he said, “I want to talk to you a little about your homes. I do not care whether they are simple and small or fancy and large; I care about the spirit of those homes. I want to suggest some cornerstones on which to build homes. . . I do not hesitate to promise that if you will go to your homes and cultivate and nurture it among these four cornerstones, your life will be happy and fruitful. . . .There will be tough times, of course. We all have them.”
President Hinckley's four cornerstones:
1. “Mutual respect . Respect one another. . . . that respect which comes of the knowledge that she is a daughter of God and that I am a son of God—His children, and that if I offend her, I offend our Father in Heaven. Never forget that-mutual respect, the kind of respect that manifests itself in courtesy and kindness and patience and forgiveness and deference . . [then] there will be happiness in your lives.”
2 . “The soft answer. It was said of old that ‘a soft answer turneth away wrath' (Prov. 15:1) . Learn to speak quietly in the house . . . when we lift our voices tiny molehills become great mountains of conflict . . .Quiet speech is the speech of peace . . . of harmony . . . of love. Keep your voices down.”
3 . “Financial honesty. If you want to get ahead in life, live honestly with the Lord and then you will be more inclined to live honestly with others, including honestly with each other.”
4. “Prayer. Get on your knees together, husband and wife, taking your turns thanking the Lord for one another and invoking His blessings upon your dreams, your hopes, your ambitions, your lives, and your children . . .” ( Church News, Feb. 17, 1996, p. 3-4)
It's a Choice
A Latter-day Saint sister from Arizona recently told us that as a young married woman she made a conscious decision about her marriage. She said, “I told myself I could have a crummy marriage or a good one. It's up to me. I chose to work hard and have a good marriage.” Many years later her two nieces, whose parents divorced, came to her and said, “We want what you have.” She realized then how her decision had influenced others beyond her immediate family. Whether we like it or not, we are training the next generation of husbands and wives. Let's give them the example our Church leaders are pleading for us to give.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “The gospel of Jesus Christ has the divine power to lift you to great heights from what appears at times to be an unbearable burden or weakness. The Lord knows your circumstances and your challenges. He said to Paul and to all of us,‘My grace is sufficient for thee.'” ( Ensign, Nov. 2007, 19)
Decide now to be happy in your marriage, seek the Lord's help, and then do whatever it takes to make it happen. Be committed to stay married.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
TYLER,
Where does the time go? I still remember you as a white-blonde haired toddler who could dribble a basketball before you could walk. I remember a little boy who I helped with various projects in school and who liked to be read stories before he went to sleep. I remember a boy who loves to play games and still does. (Anyone for UNO or rummicub?) I remember you playing air guitar when you were two years old. I remember Grandma holding your hand and walking into the church with you. I will always have images of you in my mind as a child. I can't believe you're now 18! How exciting! I hope you have a wonderful day today and know how loved you are!
Where does the time go? I still remember you as a white-blonde haired toddler who could dribble a basketball before you could walk. I remember a little boy who I helped with various projects in school and who liked to be read stories before he went to sleep. I remember a boy who loves to play games and still does. (Anyone for UNO or rummicub?) I remember you playing air guitar when you were two years old. I remember Grandma holding your hand and walking into the church with you. I will always have images of you in my mind as a child. I can't believe you're now 18! How exciting! I hope you have a wonderful day today and know how loved you are!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Tagged
The 8's
Here are the 8's:
Rules:
1) Post Rules on your blog
2) Answer the six "8" items
3) Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment
8 favorite shows: (I don't watch tv regularly except for LOST)
LOST
Dancing with the Stars
House
The Glenn Beck Show
Burn Notice
Eli Stone
ER
A baby story
8 things I did yesterday:
Looked for a job online
rewrote my resume
went to work
cleaned house
vaccumed
made muffins
changed poopy diapers
made dinner
8 things I look forward to:
Going back to school
teaching
moving somewhere warm
James going back to school
having a baby
going to a warm beach
free time doing hobbies and crafts
friday date nights with my husband
8 things I wish for:
to live in Europe
to vacation in Barcelona
to have all my food storage
to be healthy
someone to organize my life
to have 2 little girls
find more time to sew
exercise more often
8 resturants:
Salty's in Portland, OR
The Chart House in Boston, MA
The Italian Joint in Portland, OR
Baked Alaska in Astoria, OR
Mio Sushi in Portland, OR
Koji (Korean) in Portland, OR
Nicholas' Restaurant (Middle Eastern) Portland, OR
Dilettante in Seattle, WA
8 people I tag... I don't like tagging people... So I'm just going to tell anyone who reads this that you're IT... it's your turn!
Here are the 8's:
Rules:
1) Post Rules on your blog
2) Answer the six "8" items
3) Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment
8 favorite shows: (I don't watch tv regularly except for LOST)
LOST
Dancing with the Stars
House
The Glenn Beck Show
Burn Notice
Eli Stone
ER
A baby story
8 things I did yesterday:
Looked for a job online
rewrote my resume
went to work
cleaned house
vaccumed
made muffins
changed poopy diapers
made dinner
8 things I look forward to:
Going back to school
teaching
moving somewhere warm
James going back to school
having a baby
going to a warm beach
free time doing hobbies and crafts
friday date nights with my husband
8 things I wish for:
to live in Europe
to vacation in Barcelona
to have all my food storage
to be healthy
someone to organize my life
to have 2 little girls
find more time to sew
exercise more often
8 resturants:
Salty's in Portland, OR
The Chart House in Boston, MA
The Italian Joint in Portland, OR
Baked Alaska in Astoria, OR
Mio Sushi in Portland, OR
Koji (Korean) in Portland, OR
Nicholas' Restaurant (Middle Eastern) Portland, OR
Dilettante in Seattle, WA
8 people I tag... I don't like tagging people... So I'm just going to tell anyone who reads this that you're IT... it's your turn!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Glenn Beck is back on the air. This was his first week back.
I've been checking almost every other day to see if Glenn Beck is back on the air. I'd heard he was coming back on but I didn't hear when or on which channel. Well I found him today and I'm glad. He had some really great things to say that I want to share.
Did any of you see the movie, The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith? If not and you live near me or are a family member, let me know and you can borrow my copy. That movie is based on a real person, Chris Gardner. He was on Glenn Beck's show and he said that in this economy, there are a lot of people out of work and who are going to be out of work. He said that It's ok to fail, but when you quit... you become a loser. You may have lost your job, but you haven't lost your skill, experience, nor your expertise. Chris Gardner was homeless at one time, but now he makes big bucks on wall street. He also has a new book coming out which I want to read. (Hello library! I love you!!!)
So, if you are unemployed or having a difficult time during this recession... remember that Walt Disney was fired by a newspaper because they said he lacked ideas and he went bankrupt several times. Now he is a household name.
Did any of you see the movie, The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith? If not and you live near me or are a family member, let me know and you can borrow my copy. That movie is based on a real person, Chris Gardner. He was on Glenn Beck's show and he said that in this economy, there are a lot of people out of work and who are going to be out of work. He said that It's ok to fail, but when you quit... you become a loser. You may have lost your job, but you haven't lost your skill, experience, nor your expertise. Chris Gardner was homeless at one time, but now he makes big bucks on wall street. He also has a new book coming out which I want to read. (Hello library! I love you!!!)
So, if you are unemployed or having a difficult time during this recession... remember that Walt Disney was fired by a newspaper because they said he lacked ideas and he went bankrupt several times. Now he is a household name.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Where does the time go?
It's almost the weekend again already! I can't believe the week went by as fast as it did. I have a lot to accomplish and the week is over and I'm sick again. So instead of getting stuff done, I've been in bed a lot trying to recover. My Dr. has put me on steroids, antibiotics, and two different asthma medications to help me breathe. Oregon is definately not asthma friendly. I have too many allergies and there is too much rain that brings on the mold, mold, mold!
I hope everyone has a great weekend and GO DO SOMETHING FUN! Hopefully I'll kick this coughing and wheezing soon.... ha... the Dr. asked if I was a smoker!!! That's a good one..... Too bad I sound like one...
I hope everyone has a great weekend and GO DO SOMETHING FUN! Hopefully I'll kick this coughing and wheezing soon.... ha... the Dr. asked if I was a smoker!!! That's a good one..... Too bad I sound like one...
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Do you believe in magic?
I was sent this article and I keep rereading it. So I'm posting it on my blog so I can keep easier track of it and not have to keep downloading it. James and I watched the movie, the secret awhile back and it has some good things to say, but I think this article says it in a better way.
Magic in the Way We Think
by Vickey Pahnke Taylor
Abraham Lincoln was a man who thought deeper and wider than many do. He once said, “All my life I have tried to pluck a thistle and plant a flower wherever the flower would grow in thought and mind.” I love these words, because they impress upon us that we can do so many lovely things and improve our situation by using our mind.
How many of us have worked through the experience of turning a bad day around, and making it a good one — all by way of changing our attitude? The mind is a powerful tool. By choosing to exercise good inside of us, we can come to see things manifest better outside of us.
Consider the words of President Howard W. Hunter:
There is magic in the way one thinks. If we expect the worst, we will get the worst. If we expect the best, we will receive the best. If we train our minds to have faith in God and ourselves, we are using one of the great laws of life. If we think and live righteously, happiness will find its place in our lives. It is amazing when we expect the best how forces are set in motion which cause the best to materialize. (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter)
The stuff of life, and the state of our minds, combines for what we are willing to make of it:
• Although having money sufficient for our needs is a blessing, it does not solve all our problems, nor does it make for a rosy life. Being content with what we have forges the way for a happy life.
• Perfect health is a blessing, but few possess health in perfectness. And poor health does not bar a person from enjoying a beautiful life. Think of the myriad examples of those who are disabled physically, yet they seem much more “abled” than many around them. The difference? Their mindset.
• Although having good friends, or a good and loving family, add to the beauty of this life journey, many of us have spent time feeling very much alone. Those feelings, if translated into a desire to “go and do” for someone else, or to become engaged in life and activities outside ourselves, allow for a positive experience.
There are so many examples our minds capture. You may be thinking of a very real and personal situation right now, as you read through this column. The question we may ask ourselves is, “How do I react?” “What is my mind set?” “Am I trying to pluck the thistle and plant a flower?”
Regardless of the soil, temperature, or other conditions out in the world, the inner world — the mind and heart — can grow positive and beautiful things, as it sifts away the “dross and refuse.” This is a simple concept. It is pretty tough to put into regular practice. But, just as pulling up thistles and planting flowers takes a bit of work, the mental exercise of shifting our way of thinking and doing takes work. The art of pulling weeds and planting a garden comes easier over the years, as we do the exercise. So it is with the planting of good and righteous things.
Training our minds is a great lifelong pursuit. The quicker we get the hang of looking for the best, quickly digging up a negative thought, and expecting better things, the quicker we will experience a life more in harmony with our God.
2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but ... of a sound mind.” Studying over Alma 28, with a focus on how we can most fully align our minds with God's, offers a whole new appreciation for planting seeds and growing goodness in our minds.
Even under the seemingly worst of circumstances, we can grow good things within. The magic? The way we think!
Magic in the Way We Think
by Vickey Pahnke Taylor
Abraham Lincoln was a man who thought deeper and wider than many do. He once said, “All my life I have tried to pluck a thistle and plant a flower wherever the flower would grow in thought and mind.” I love these words, because they impress upon us that we can do so many lovely things and improve our situation by using our mind.
How many of us have worked through the experience of turning a bad day around, and making it a good one — all by way of changing our attitude? The mind is a powerful tool. By choosing to exercise good inside of us, we can come to see things manifest better outside of us.
Consider the words of President Howard W. Hunter:
There is magic in the way one thinks. If we expect the worst, we will get the worst. If we expect the best, we will receive the best. If we train our minds to have faith in God and ourselves, we are using one of the great laws of life. If we think and live righteously, happiness will find its place in our lives. It is amazing when we expect the best how forces are set in motion which cause the best to materialize. (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter)
The stuff of life, and the state of our minds, combines for what we are willing to make of it:
• Although having money sufficient for our needs is a blessing, it does not solve all our problems, nor does it make for a rosy life. Being content with what we have forges the way for a happy life.
• Perfect health is a blessing, but few possess health in perfectness. And poor health does not bar a person from enjoying a beautiful life. Think of the myriad examples of those who are disabled physically, yet they seem much more “abled” than many around them. The difference? Their mindset.
• Although having good friends, or a good and loving family, add to the beauty of this life journey, many of us have spent time feeling very much alone. Those feelings, if translated into a desire to “go and do” for someone else, or to become engaged in life and activities outside ourselves, allow for a positive experience.
There are so many examples our minds capture. You may be thinking of a very real and personal situation right now, as you read through this column. The question we may ask ourselves is, “How do I react?” “What is my mind set?” “Am I trying to pluck the thistle and plant a flower?”
Regardless of the soil, temperature, or other conditions out in the world, the inner world — the mind and heart — can grow positive and beautiful things, as it sifts away the “dross and refuse.” This is a simple concept. It is pretty tough to put into regular practice. But, just as pulling up thistles and planting flowers takes a bit of work, the mental exercise of shifting our way of thinking and doing takes work. The art of pulling weeds and planting a garden comes easier over the years, as we do the exercise. So it is with the planting of good and righteous things.
Training our minds is a great lifelong pursuit. The quicker we get the hang of looking for the best, quickly digging up a negative thought, and expecting better things, the quicker we will experience a life more in harmony with our God.
2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but ... of a sound mind.” Studying over Alma 28, with a focus on how we can most fully align our minds with God's, offers a whole new appreciation for planting seeds and growing goodness in our minds.
Even under the seemingly worst of circumstances, we can grow good things within. The magic? The way we think!
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