I don't know if you know this about me or not, but I have to have some new and different project in my life to feel alive. I NEED to sew something, paint something, make something, CREATE something to feel like a human being who can function. I know this is a "little" or maybe "A LOT" dramatic, but I am BORED, BORED, BORED I TELL YOU!!!!!!!!! Not because I have nothing to do, I have TOO MUCH to do, but all of it is mundane BORING stuff that has no purpose or meaning behind it, besides the fact that we do want to live in a somewhat clean home.
So.........this is my plan. Right now in my living room we have sortof an Asian theme going on. I have decided it is time to go to Tuscany!!! Yes, Italy!! I am going to take down our beautiful Asian mural hangings and paint a picture of Tuscany. I have done oil painting in the past, and it is high time I do another. It has been way too long. See.... I feel better already. Just thinking about painting is starting to help. Now I just have to find a picture that I can look at, so I can paint a picture. I am not good enough yet to paint a picture from a photograph. I will take before and after pictures to let you all know how it turns out. I just know you will be waiting on pins and needles until that time.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Remembering
This week I ran into a mom of a friend of mine that I grew up with. My friend and I have kept in touch over the years, but really only talk maybe once every year or two. This meeting brought back a lot of good memories. Hot pickles (YUM!) sleepovers, birthday parties, no fart chili (hee, hee!), caramel popcorn, good times. Thanks for the good times Jen.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Attracted to me!
Logan has been saying the funniest things lately. Last night he was teasing his brother and sister about crushes they had on someone at school. So of course they started teasing him about girls at school liking him. Then Logan told us "Belle is attracted to me, I sat down at school (on the carpet squares) and Belle followed me, so I moved and she moved too! I am serious, she is attracted to me!!"
My baby is talking like a grown-up! How did that happen?
My baby is talking like a grown-up! How did that happen?
Sunday, November 30, 2008
A Remembering Aid?
The other day we were teasing Miguel about not being able to hear very good. I told him I was going to get him a hearing aid for Christmas. (We then found out that he just has selective hearing:)
Today at dinner we were joking around again and Logan said the funniest thing. He said "we should get Dad a remembering aid because he always forgets things." Maybe this is one of those times that you "had to be there" but it was very funny!!
Today at dinner we were joking around again and Logan said the funniest thing. He said "we should get Dad a remembering aid because he always forgets things." Maybe this is one of those times that you "had to be there" but it was very funny!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thanks
I just wanted to take a minute and express my thanks for the many blessings that I have. These are in no particular order, this is just what I have been thinking about lately.
1-Good health-as I have been doing some research and reading about other people who now have Crohn's disease, I once again am reminded what a blessing it is to have good health. I feel great! Physically I am able to do ALL that I need and want to do. Mentally I feel strong, more confident in WHO I am. Spiritually I have been blessed beyond measure and have been given more gifts of the spirit than I am worthy.
2-My family-As I watch my husband continue to work a horrible shift and the sacrifice that he is making so that I can be at home with our children, I am in complete AWE. He does this without complaining!! My oldest boy is such a good kid, fun to be around, and a good example to his younger siblings. My favorite daughter, is so thoughtful and caring, she has such a big heart. My youngest boy, is a spitfire, he is fun, he has taught me so much, and he tries so hard to be good. My dog is growing up and not such a crazy puppy anymore. She is so obedient lately. I feel safe with her around. (And I thought I didn't like dogs:) Who knew!)
3-The wonderful blessing of being able to be a stay at home mom. As I have faced the idea of having to go to work it has made me realize just how much I cherish the time I am at home, and what a HUGE blessing it is. I wouldn't trade it for anything!
4-Peace-I have felt a wonderful peace in my life lately. I am grateful for it, strive to keep it that way, and hope to eminate that to others. With the Lord in charge, life gets so much easier! It truly takes all the pressure off me.
5-Eternal families-The thought of being able to be with my family (extended etc.) is such a blessing. There are 2 special people I look forward to getting to know again. Miguels mother, and my paternal grandmother. For some reason I have a special connection with these two ladies. My grandmother passed away when I was 5 years old. Miguel's mother passed away when my oldest son was just a few months old. Both of these women were ill for a long time before passing, so I didn't have the opportunity to know them very well on earth.
6-I am grateful that Miguel's father moved back to the states, and he made it in time for the holidays. Special circumstances made that happen.
There are SO MANY more things, but that's all for now, feel free to share what you are thankful for also.
1-Good health-as I have been doing some research and reading about other people who now have Crohn's disease, I once again am reminded what a blessing it is to have good health. I feel great! Physically I am able to do ALL that I need and want to do. Mentally I feel strong, more confident in WHO I am. Spiritually I have been blessed beyond measure and have been given more gifts of the spirit than I am worthy.
2-My family-As I watch my husband continue to work a horrible shift and the sacrifice that he is making so that I can be at home with our children, I am in complete AWE. He does this without complaining!! My oldest boy is such a good kid, fun to be around, and a good example to his younger siblings. My favorite daughter, is so thoughtful and caring, she has such a big heart. My youngest boy, is a spitfire, he is fun, he has taught me so much, and he tries so hard to be good. My dog is growing up and not such a crazy puppy anymore. She is so obedient lately. I feel safe with her around. (And I thought I didn't like dogs:) Who knew!)
3-The wonderful blessing of being able to be a stay at home mom. As I have faced the idea of having to go to work it has made me realize just how much I cherish the time I am at home, and what a HUGE blessing it is. I wouldn't trade it for anything!
4-Peace-I have felt a wonderful peace in my life lately. I am grateful for it, strive to keep it that way, and hope to eminate that to others. With the Lord in charge, life gets so much easier! It truly takes all the pressure off me.
5-Eternal families-The thought of being able to be with my family (extended etc.) is such a blessing. There are 2 special people I look forward to getting to know again. Miguels mother, and my paternal grandmother. For some reason I have a special connection with these two ladies. My grandmother passed away when I was 5 years old. Miguel's mother passed away when my oldest son was just a few months old. Both of these women were ill for a long time before passing, so I didn't have the opportunity to know them very well on earth.
6-I am grateful that Miguel's father moved back to the states, and he made it in time for the holidays. Special circumstances made that happen.
There are SO MANY more things, but that's all for now, feel free to share what you are thankful for also.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Architecture of All Abundance Capter 8 (Part 1): by Lenedra Carroll
It has been a REALLY long time since I have posted from this book. I was thinking about it last night and how much it has helped me, so I decided to post on it today.
Chapter 8
"Money Money Money"
"I deeply believed that money was the basis of most of my own needs, and that my dreams could not move forward without it."
As you will see this is absolutely not true, keep reading.
"There are many ideas we have accepted about money, value, lack, work, and worth. These ideas form a belief system that creates the principles that we operate by regarding money. They vastly influence our relationships and dreams."
I challenge you to write down your "thoughs and beliefs" about money. Examples: there is never enough money, only the rich get richer, it is bad to have money, it is bad to receive help from others, people without money are happier, etc etc.
Lenedra then suggests replacing the word "money" with "power," or "love," "time," and "success."
"To change our relationship to prosperity, we must first see what our current relationship to it is."
Lenedra goes on to say that we should value our time as much as we value our money. "What are you worth to yourself?" For instance: would you spend $30 to have someone mow the lawn or clean your home so you could spend more time with your children, or develope a talent, or serve or create, or fulfill a dream?
"I know we can become so bound by the idea of what we cannot afford that we can hardly breathe, let alone take a class or pay someone else to clean our house or mow the lawn. But I also know that at the core it is NEVER about the money. There is ALWAYS a way for the determined person to understand their purpose and dream, and be guided to its fulfillment. There are moments in one's life when one has to stretch, to risk, to leap forward naked into the wind."
At one point in Lenedra's life she was divorced and was only qualified for minimum wage jobs. However she did not let that stop her. She did not just go and get ANY job. She set the standard of a minimum wage for herself ($25.00 per hour). Keep in mind this was over 10 years ago. She CHOSE to teach art and music classes. She taught self-help and spiritual development classes. SHE FOUND A WAY!
"In business it is necessary to invest a good share of the earnings back into the business so that is remains healthy and generative over time. In the same way, your investment in yourself will bring the highest gain."
How are you going to invest in yourself?
Ask yourself this question: In my personal economy, what do you value? Some answers; love, freedom, joy, fulfillment, people, community, creativity, nature, spiritual growth etc etc.
"Your prosperity consciousness is not dependent on money; your flow of money is dependent on your prosperity consciousness. As you can conceive of more, more will come into your life."
--Louise Hay
Think about that. You do not have to know the way, you just believe and then be ready to put faith into action. This applies to spiritual growth as well as temporal growth.
Do you want a stronger testimony? Do you want to have a witness about a gospel truth? Do you want to be able to hear the "still small voice" more frequently? Do you want to share the gospel openly? PUT THE IDEA INTO YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS, BELIEVE IT WILL HAPPEN, AND TAKE THE OPPORTUNITIES WHEN THEY COME.
Do you want more temporal growth? Not sure what to do with your life? Not sure about the next big business decision? How can you make more money? How can you work less hours? PUT IT INTO YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS, KNOW THAT THE RIGHT OPPORTUNITY OR IDEA WILL COME, THEN ACT ON IT!
Part 2 coming up next. This was A Lot to think about.
Chapter 8
"Money Money Money"
"I deeply believed that money was the basis of most of my own needs, and that my dreams could not move forward without it."
As you will see this is absolutely not true, keep reading.
"There are many ideas we have accepted about money, value, lack, work, and worth. These ideas form a belief system that creates the principles that we operate by regarding money. They vastly influence our relationships and dreams."
I challenge you to write down your "thoughs and beliefs" about money. Examples: there is never enough money, only the rich get richer, it is bad to have money, it is bad to receive help from others, people without money are happier, etc etc.
Lenedra then suggests replacing the word "money" with "power," or "love," "time," and "success."
"To change our relationship to prosperity, we must first see what our current relationship to it is."
Lenedra goes on to say that we should value our time as much as we value our money. "What are you worth to yourself?" For instance: would you spend $30 to have someone mow the lawn or clean your home so you could spend more time with your children, or develope a talent, or serve or create, or fulfill a dream?
"I know we can become so bound by the idea of what we cannot afford that we can hardly breathe, let alone take a class or pay someone else to clean our house or mow the lawn. But I also know that at the core it is NEVER about the money. There is ALWAYS a way for the determined person to understand their purpose and dream, and be guided to its fulfillment. There are moments in one's life when one has to stretch, to risk, to leap forward naked into the wind."
At one point in Lenedra's life she was divorced and was only qualified for minimum wage jobs. However she did not let that stop her. She did not just go and get ANY job. She set the standard of a minimum wage for herself ($25.00 per hour). Keep in mind this was over 10 years ago. She CHOSE to teach art and music classes. She taught self-help and spiritual development classes. SHE FOUND A WAY!
"In business it is necessary to invest a good share of the earnings back into the business so that is remains healthy and generative over time. In the same way, your investment in yourself will bring the highest gain."
How are you going to invest in yourself?
Ask yourself this question: In my personal economy, what do you value? Some answers; love, freedom, joy, fulfillment, people, community, creativity, nature, spiritual growth etc etc.
"Your prosperity consciousness is not dependent on money; your flow of money is dependent on your prosperity consciousness. As you can conceive of more, more will come into your life."
--Louise Hay
Think about that. You do not have to know the way, you just believe and then be ready to put faith into action. This applies to spiritual growth as well as temporal growth.
Do you want a stronger testimony? Do you want to have a witness about a gospel truth? Do you want to be able to hear the "still small voice" more frequently? Do you want to share the gospel openly? PUT THE IDEA INTO YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS, BELIEVE IT WILL HAPPEN, AND TAKE THE OPPORTUNITIES WHEN THEY COME.
Do you want more temporal growth? Not sure what to do with your life? Not sure about the next big business decision? How can you make more money? How can you work less hours? PUT IT INTO YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS, KNOW THAT THE RIGHT OPPORTUNITY OR IDEA WILL COME, THEN ACT ON IT!
Part 2 coming up next. This was A Lot to think about.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Bosch Class
Today's class went really great. Thank you to all who came. We had only 4 people signed up, but 16 came!!!!! That was really exciting. The people seemed to really like the recipes, and the book. One lady even commented that out of all of the classes she has come to, where they were also selling a book, mine was the one she was most exicted about. Humbling! I am so grateful for this opportunity. It is amazing how something so horrible "crohn's disease" could turn into something so meaningful and good. I am very blessed!
Next class at the Bosch store will be in December, unless I decide to wait until January because of the holidays. I look forward to it though.
Next class at the Bosch store will be in December, unless I decide to wait until January because of the holidays. I look forward to it though.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Classes
Hi everyone. I have really been slacking on the blog thing lately. I just wanted to let you know I have 2 different classes coming up that you might be interested in.
1-Bosch Kitchen Center; I will be teaching a cooking class on wednesday. REALLY GOOD whole wheat muffins and EVEN BETTER breakfast cake. I will be serving the muffins with homemade pear butter, sweetened with honey!!! Delicious!!
2-Whole Foods Market; I will be teaching a class there on Overcoming Crohn's disease. How I healed myself, and what you can do too!!
This is the part of owning a business that I LOVE! Being able to teach and share with other people what I have learned. That brings purpose and meaning into my life.
1-Bosch Kitchen Center; I will be teaching a cooking class on wednesday. REALLY GOOD whole wheat muffins and EVEN BETTER breakfast cake. I will be serving the muffins with homemade pear butter, sweetened with honey!!! Delicious!!
2-Whole Foods Market; I will be teaching a class there on Overcoming Crohn's disease. How I healed myself, and what you can do too!!
This is the part of owning a business that I LOVE! Being able to teach and share with other people what I have learned. That brings purpose and meaning into my life.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Selling Books
Things are moving along nicely. I now have my books in several stores. Good Earth, Kitchen Kneads, Bosch Kitchen Center, Alpine Clinic, Wooley's Dairy, Varian Credit Union and a few other places. We are working on the website and should have it finished by the end of November.
What I really look forward to doing is helping other people with Crohn's disease. I KNOW that I have something to offer, and the more people I can help, the better.
I also want to open everyones eyes about the importance of healthy eating. How to use whole wheat so it tastes good. How to cut back on sugar etc etc. How to use honey instead of sugar in recipes. You REALLY will not miss out on a thing. I have been able to duplicate almost every recipe that I find using honey instead of sugar.
Marshmallows, Lemon Mousse Cake, Puddings, Cakes, Cookies, Ice Cream etc.
Give me a challenge, I will try to make it!!
What I really look forward to doing is helping other people with Crohn's disease. I KNOW that I have something to offer, and the more people I can help, the better.
I also want to open everyones eyes about the importance of healthy eating. How to use whole wheat so it tastes good. How to cut back on sugar etc etc. How to use honey instead of sugar in recipes. You REALLY will not miss out on a thing. I have been able to duplicate almost every recipe that I find using honey instead of sugar.
Marshmallows, Lemon Mousse Cake, Puddings, Cakes, Cookies, Ice Cream etc.
Give me a challenge, I will try to make it!!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Canning Tomatoes
My sister-in-law was nice enough to give me a whole bunch of tomatoes. Thank you Flor.
MY BOOKS HAVE ARRIVED!!!
My books have made it all the way from Korea!My unbelievably generous neighbor, offered to let us borrow his truck and trailer to pick up my books. He drove his truck and trailer to the publisher, loaded the books, brought it back to our house, and unloaded the books. All on his day off! Thanks Dave! It is hard to tell from the pictures, but the trailer was full from front to back, stacked 3 boxes high. It's a huge trailer. There was a total of 186 boxes. We brought home 181. The publisher kept the other 5 to distribute.
Above is my awesome family! Miguel, Emerald, Logan, Tanner and me. And down in front Boo our dog. Miguel only got 1 hour of sleep before we went to pick up the books. He worked the night before, all night and then we got the call that my books arrived. He only took a 1 hour nap, then went with to load the books. I am so grateful for him and all that he does for us. He works so hard so that I can stay at home with our kids. He has also ALWAYS supported me in this book venture. Thank you Miguel, I love you! As you can see, we just stacked the books all over our home. I guess I will have to sell them fast to get them out of my living room. Tanner sort of wants his room back too.
ANY ONE NEED A COOKBOOK? HA! HA!:)
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Book Update
I just got word that my books should be at the publishing office this thursday or friday.
YEAH!!!!!!
YEAH!!!!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Pickles
We had a lot of cucumbers in our garden so I decided to make pickles. The jars in the middle are Hot pickles, the jars on the right are Bread and Butter pickles, and the jars on the left are pickled onions. I haven't tried any of them yet because I want them to cure first. Hope they are good.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Book Update
Okay, so my big shipment of books are really on the way. They will arrive in L.A. in about 7 days. Then they will go through customs, then be sent here!!! It REALLY won't be long now!!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Apples
This is what I did yesterday. 18 pints and 1 quart of pink applesauce. The apples were red so they turned the applesauce pink, cool huh! 12 pints of cooked apples, for cobbler or pie etc.......and some dehydrated apples YUM!! I lightly sweetened the applesauce with raw honey, and added a little bit of cinnamon, my family likes that.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Hiking and a Rattlesnake
On Saturday we decided to take a hike up in the mountains. It was so nice! The weather was beautiful, it greatly improved my mood, and it gave all of us some really good exercise. We hiked over 4 miles. My little guy Logan who is 5 years old, did the whole hike as well. What a trooper.
One exciting and scary thing happened though. We were on a path that was very narrow, so we were walking single file. Logan was leading the way with Tanner behind him, then Miguel, Emerald and me. All of a sudden we heard "chkchckhckhkchhckhckch." Tanner quickly pulled Logan back. There was a HUGE rattlesnake right in the middle of the path. We all crowded around and waited for it to move. It SLOWLY slithered into the bushes, and we went on our way.
I have never seen a rattlesnake in real life, except at the zoo. I was amazed at how loud the "rattle" sound was. I am also very grateful for the warning to stay back. It would have been an extremely scary and dangerous hike back if someone had been bitten. We were about 1 1/2 hours up into the mountain. That means another 1 1/2 hours back down, with a lot of rocky terrain. Not the kind of thing you want to run down.
This experience also made me think of how blessed we are to have a living prophet. Heavenly Father did not leave us here on this earth to just flounder around without further guidance and direction. He gave us the First Presidency and a living Prophet. When we are on a narrow path, and danger comes our way, IF we look to the Prophet and follow His counsel, he will pull us back, away from danger, we will be safe. The Prophet, lives in our day and time, and knows the struggles and trials of this day and age. He can give us direct counsel, even revelation to what we all should be doing. Do you see what a blessing that is? Do you see the magnitude of help that brings into our lives. Do you see the Father's love in giving us this gift? I am so grateful.
One exciting and scary thing happened though. We were on a path that was very narrow, so we were walking single file. Logan was leading the way with Tanner behind him, then Miguel, Emerald and me. All of a sudden we heard "chkchckhckhkchhckhckch." Tanner quickly pulled Logan back. There was a HUGE rattlesnake right in the middle of the path. We all crowded around and waited for it to move. It SLOWLY slithered into the bushes, and we went on our way.
I have never seen a rattlesnake in real life, except at the zoo. I was amazed at how loud the "rattle" sound was. I am also very grateful for the warning to stay back. It would have been an extremely scary and dangerous hike back if someone had been bitten. We were about 1 1/2 hours up into the mountain. That means another 1 1/2 hours back down, with a lot of rocky terrain. Not the kind of thing you want to run down.
This experience also made me think of how blessed we are to have a living prophet. Heavenly Father did not leave us here on this earth to just flounder around without further guidance and direction. He gave us the First Presidency and a living Prophet. When we are on a narrow path, and danger comes our way, IF we look to the Prophet and follow His counsel, he will pull us back, away from danger, we will be safe. The Prophet, lives in our day and time, and knows the struggles and trials of this day and age. He can give us direct counsel, even revelation to what we all should be doing. Do you see what a blessing that is? Do you see the magnitude of help that brings into our lives. Do you see the Father's love in giving us this gift? I am so grateful.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Things are moving along
My books are moving fast. The marketing opportunities just keep pouring in, it's great! If I could just get the rest of my shipment I would be in big business.
Let me know if any of you have some leads, or would like me to come and do Home Enrichment or something. It's a great way to show people how to use their wheat they have in food storage, and don't know what to do with it.
I did a Home Enrichment the other night in my ward. We made Muffins, Breakfast Cake, Pizza Dough and Pesto to put on the pizza. Everyone said they really liked the food, they also said it was helpful to have the demonstration.
Let me know if any of you have some leads, or would like me to come and do Home Enrichment or something. It's a great way to show people how to use their wheat they have in food storage, and don't know what to do with it.
I did a Home Enrichment the other night in my ward. We made Muffins, Breakfast Cake, Pizza Dough and Pesto to put on the pizza. Everyone said they really liked the food, they also said it was helpful to have the demonstration.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Could it be????? I got my books??????
I know you are not going to believe this. Infact you probably thought I was just making up the whole "book thing" but I FINALLY, ACTUALLY got my books today!!!!
I only got 16 of them, and am already down to 12, but more is coming, about 3000 to be exact.
I only got 16 of them, and am already down to 12, but more is coming, about 3000 to be exact.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Moving?
Monday we went to look at homes and land in a few different small towns. It was fun. The kids had a good time, and are excited about moving. It will probably take us about a year to be ready to move, and we still don't know if we will build or buy an existing home. Yesterday we went to look at some model homes near here, and found the homes that we really love. So if we can get that builder to go that far south, then we will probably build. However that will add about 10 months, because it will take them that long to build the home we want. It's so fun and exciting to dream with faith. The future looks bright!
Friday, August 8, 2008
LDS Booksellers Convention
HI everyone. I went to the LDS Booksellers Convention yesterday, WITHOUT my books. They are still at the press. We should have had them by now, but as they are being printed in Korea we have to go by their rules. Basically the country shut down for a holiday or something for the last few weeks. So I don't have my books yet.
HOWEVER the convention went well. I handed out a few recipes from the book, and had a good amount of people interested! Some stores already ordered my book. YEA!
I can't wait to get it, and be able to share it with people. So many people that I talked to yesterday said they wanted to eat healthier, but just weren't sure how to do it. That is what my book is for. THAT is the reason why I wrote the book in the first place, to be able to share with other people things I have learned.
HOWEVER the convention went well. I handed out a few recipes from the book, and had a good amount of people interested! Some stores already ordered my book. YEA!
I can't wait to get it, and be able to share it with people. So many people that I talked to yesterday said they wanted to eat healthier, but just weren't sure how to do it. That is what my book is for. THAT is the reason why I wrote the book in the first place, to be able to share with other people things I have learned.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
IT JUST IS!!
You know sometimes we fight change, we kick against change, we cry at change, we would do anything to make everything stay the same in our lives.
What a struggle that is! Stop IT! What happens to a tree that won't bend? It breaks! Do you want to break? NO! So, then, bend with the changes in your life, embrace them!
Big changes are coming our way, and I am excited! God is good!
I recently learned a new concept that has deeply impacted me, and I would like to share it with all of you. Because as you know I have SO MANY readers! Ha Ha!
My new motto........."it just IS."
Nothing is either good or bad, UNTIL YOU decide (make a story) to make it that way! It is YOUR choice, to choose whether any given circumstance is good or bad. There is good in ALL things, you just have to look for it, "become aware of it!"
Once you open your awareness to all that is good (which has always been there) you will now recognize it!
Here is a funny example of what I mean. I was comparing my home the other day, to that of my neighbors. I have one neighbor who is very neat, and clean and organized and tidy ALL of the time. At times I have felt inferior to her cleaning abilities. I have another neighbor who is not so much in the previous category. And here I am in the middle. So............if I compare (make a story) to look at the first nieghbor's home, and compare it to mine, my home would look messy. On the other hand if I compare (make a story) to the second neighbor's home, my home would look neat and clean. IT JUST IS!!!!!! My home is neither messy, nor clean, IT JUST IS!!!
Do you know how freeing this is? Play with this concept a little bit, it is amazing how fun it is! "Make your stories" so that you see the good!
Good luck!
P.S. Tanner just informed me that the above sentence "At times I have felt inferior to her cleaning abilities." Is the nerdiest sentence he has ever heard. But you know what...............It Just Is! It is neither nerdy or cool, it just is!
Go try it!
What a struggle that is! Stop IT! What happens to a tree that won't bend? It breaks! Do you want to break? NO! So, then, bend with the changes in your life, embrace them!
Big changes are coming our way, and I am excited! God is good!
I recently learned a new concept that has deeply impacted me, and I would like to share it with all of you. Because as you know I have SO MANY readers! Ha Ha!
My new motto........."it just IS."
Nothing is either good or bad, UNTIL YOU decide (make a story) to make it that way! It is YOUR choice, to choose whether any given circumstance is good or bad. There is good in ALL things, you just have to look for it, "become aware of it!"
Once you open your awareness to all that is good (which has always been there) you will now recognize it!
Here is a funny example of what I mean. I was comparing my home the other day, to that of my neighbors. I have one neighbor who is very neat, and clean and organized and tidy ALL of the time. At times I have felt inferior to her cleaning abilities. I have another neighbor who is not so much in the previous category. And here I am in the middle. So............if I compare (make a story) to look at the first nieghbor's home, and compare it to mine, my home would look messy. On the other hand if I compare (make a story) to the second neighbor's home, my home would look neat and clean. IT JUST IS!!!!!! My home is neither messy, nor clean, IT JUST IS!!!
Do you know how freeing this is? Play with this concept a little bit, it is amazing how fun it is! "Make your stories" so that you see the good!
Good luck!
P.S. Tanner just informed me that the above sentence "At times I have felt inferior to her cleaning abilities." Is the nerdiest sentence he has ever heard. But you know what...............It Just Is! It is neither nerdy or cool, it just is!
Go try it!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Architecture of All Abundance: Chapter 7
Architecture of All Abundance--By Lenedra J. Carroll
Chapter 7--Lilies of the Field
"We wake in the morning feeling we didn't get enough sleep, hurry through our day without taking sufficient nourishment, we feel we lack time for our friends, children, obligations, for ourselves. We think we lack enough money for our dreams. Frequently we feel we don't have enough energy or health for our day. Insufficiency, lack---isn't there ever enough?"
These feelings can be so strong at times, that we tend to hoard, and cling to all that we have afraid to let go.
"....the economy of greed at work in each of our lives. The truth is that there is more than enough of everything. There is sufficient for all our requirements and dreams. We are unable to see it, to know it, but providence is there."
"What is the antidote to greed? It is knowing that all we require is already before us; we simply don't see it."
This is where our thoughts come in. If you change your thoughts to---"I have abundance in my life, I have all that I need, and enough to spare." Even if, this is not currently true. All that you need will come!!! I am not just speaking of temporal things, but spiritual as well!!
Change your awareness!!
How many of you are now homeless, or without food and the basic necessities of life? How many of you REALLY think that could ever happen to you?
When you change your thoughts to the "abundance mentality," you are showing faith in Heavenly Father that He will always take care of you.
"Add up all the moments you have no need. You will see that the moments in which you are free of need far outweigh the others."
".........Do not limit how the Source (Heavenly Father) will express this to you. Hold your requirements more lightly. KNOW they already exist for you! You live within a divinely provident universe. Speak your requirements softly and certainly, knowing they are already there for you. Simply call them forth, each in their own time. No sooner is required. "
Chapter 7--Lilies of the Field
"We wake in the morning feeling we didn't get enough sleep, hurry through our day without taking sufficient nourishment, we feel we lack time for our friends, children, obligations, for ourselves. We think we lack enough money for our dreams. Frequently we feel we don't have enough energy or health for our day. Insufficiency, lack---isn't there ever enough?"
These feelings can be so strong at times, that we tend to hoard, and cling to all that we have afraid to let go.
"....the economy of greed at work in each of our lives. The truth is that there is more than enough of everything. There is sufficient for all our requirements and dreams. We are unable to see it, to know it, but providence is there."
"What is the antidote to greed? It is knowing that all we require is already before us; we simply don't see it."
This is where our thoughts come in. If you change your thoughts to---"I have abundance in my life, I have all that I need, and enough to spare." Even if, this is not currently true. All that you need will come!!! I am not just speaking of temporal things, but spiritual as well!!
Change your awareness!!
How many of you are now homeless, or without food and the basic necessities of life? How many of you REALLY think that could ever happen to you?
When you change your thoughts to the "abundance mentality," you are showing faith in Heavenly Father that He will always take care of you.
"Add up all the moments you have no need. You will see that the moments in which you are free of need far outweigh the others."
".........Do not limit how the Source (Heavenly Father) will express this to you. Hold your requirements more lightly. KNOW they already exist for you! You live within a divinely provident universe. Speak your requirements softly and certainly, knowing they are already there for you. Simply call them forth, each in their own time. No sooner is required. "
- "It is not necessary or productive to have worry or doubt regarding my requirements."
- "All that I require is contained within the kingdom of Being."
- "Instead of striving for my needs, seek the kingdom; all within it is provided for me."
- "It is God's pleasure to provide me with the kingdom."
- "God is righteous---aligned with principles of justice."
- "Providence is one of these principles."
"The abundance of God is like a mighty ocean, so vast you cannot possibly exhaust it or cause a shortage for others. You can go to this inexhaustible ocean with a small cup and bring away only that small cup of bounty and blessing. Or...you can take a bucket and bring away a bucketful. It makes no difference to the ocean. Nor does it matter how often you go...abundance is always there." Henry Hamblin
If you can wrap your brain around this, and believe it. I believe you will have TRUE FAITH.
I am sure this has already happened in your life without you even realizing it! Think about it.
Go try it and see what comes into your life! Put it to the test!
And please, ALWAYS give thanks to Heavenly Father for these blessings!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Book Update
I just got the second "final" copy of my book. We made 3 more changes. I am supposed to have them by August. Can I just say.......patience is a virtue!
Before I complain too much, I believe there has been a "purpose" in all of this waiting, and I need to thank Heavenly Father for the wonderful blessings that have come about.
Because the book has taken this long, I have been given another marketing opportunity, that will make a significant difference, and open many more doors.
NEVER doubt the Lord or HIS timing!
Never, Never, Never doubt the Lord. He knows all! If you can put ALL of your trust in Him, then you have no need for worry. ABSOLUTELY NO WORRY!
I feel so grateful!
Before I complain too much, I believe there has been a "purpose" in all of this waiting, and I need to thank Heavenly Father for the wonderful blessings that have come about.
Because the book has taken this long, I have been given another marketing opportunity, that will make a significant difference, and open many more doors.
NEVER doubt the Lord or HIS timing!
Never, Never, Never doubt the Lord. He knows all! If you can put ALL of your trust in Him, then you have no need for worry. ABSOLUTELY NO WORRY!
I feel so grateful!
Thought for the day
DREAM BIG! You don't have to know "how" you are going to accomplish your dream, you just have to "know" that you can!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Book Update
Okay, so here I am again waiting, waiting, waiting for my book to be done. I talked to the publisher today. He finally got in touch with his people in Korea and said they had been out of the office. Maybe things will get moving now! I guess I just have to be a little more assertive. I will keep you posted!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Architecture of All Abundance Chapter 6
I am sorry I have been a slacker with this chapter. Anyway....here it goes.......
This book is by Lenedra J. Carroll
Chapter 6 is titled "Natural Systems"
I love this sentence........."the fruit of silence is the first hunger of my soul."
I ask this question-How often, how many times per week, do you treat yourself to silence?
I believe you have to practice "in silence" and then you will be able to....as the book says....
"I have become adept at moving from silence to action, action to silence---back and forth in a comfortable rhythm---but I have begun to sense that I can now learn to stay in the silence in all that I am---my work, my play, under stress, in everything."
Another great quote....."He is wise who sees action in inaction and inaction in action."
I ask this question-How often are we so caught up in action, in doing, in being busy, that whatever we are doing has no purpose? Are your actions purposeful? What is your purpose here on earth and how can you fulfill them?
"Without the stillness we move into action prematurely, ineffectively, and with much higher cost of our resources."
"Time spent in nature, in silence, prayer, meditation, or entranced by music, poetry, yoga, even exercise, or the many other things that take us into and beyond our individual selves gives us familiarity with the stillness that is a necessary element of life.
Learn to step back, breathe, pause, slow down, pace yourself. Find the "stillness" in everyday life. This shift of energy will make you more productive and will be more rewarding.
Imagine your thoughts go like this "Oh, I have so much to do."
"I will never be able to finish all of this."
"I never get to do the things I want to."
"My work never ends."
"My life is too busy."
Consider changing those thoughts to this
"I am grateful my life is full."
"I got a lot done today."
"I feel happy that I make the time to do things I really love."
"It feels great to accomplish so much."
"My life has purpose and meaning."
Just reading the second list of thoughts makes me feel better already. Guard your thoughts, own your thoughts, because soon you will be living your thoughts.
I cannot be any more profound than that.
Have a great day!
This book is by Lenedra J. Carroll
Chapter 6 is titled "Natural Systems"
I love this sentence........."the fruit of silence is the first hunger of my soul."
I ask this question-How often, how many times per week, do you treat yourself to silence?
I believe you have to practice "in silence" and then you will be able to....as the book says....
"I have become adept at moving from silence to action, action to silence---back and forth in a comfortable rhythm---but I have begun to sense that I can now learn to stay in the silence in all that I am---my work, my play, under stress, in everything."
Another great quote....."He is wise who sees action in inaction and inaction in action."
I ask this question-How often are we so caught up in action, in doing, in being busy, that whatever we are doing has no purpose? Are your actions purposeful? What is your purpose here on earth and how can you fulfill them?
"Without the stillness we move into action prematurely, ineffectively, and with much higher cost of our resources."
"Time spent in nature, in silence, prayer, meditation, or entranced by music, poetry, yoga, even exercise, or the many other things that take us into and beyond our individual selves gives us familiarity with the stillness that is a necessary element of life.
Learn to step back, breathe, pause, slow down, pace yourself. Find the "stillness" in everyday life. This shift of energy will make you more productive and will be more rewarding.
Imagine your thoughts go like this "Oh, I have so much to do."
"I will never be able to finish all of this."
"I never get to do the things I want to."
"My work never ends."
"My life is too busy."
Consider changing those thoughts to this
"I am grateful my life is full."
"I got a lot done today."
"I feel happy that I make the time to do things I really love."
"It feels great to accomplish so much."
"My life has purpose and meaning."
Just reading the second list of thoughts makes me feel better already. Guard your thoughts, own your thoughts, because soon you will be living your thoughts.
I cannot be any more profound than that.
Have a great day!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Schools out, Yeah!
These past couple of weeks seem to have flown by, with so many things going on. I am glad school is out! It gives me more time with my kids, especially the older ones. I don't get to just "hang out" with them as much as I would like during the school year.
I have so many things going through my brain right now, it is hard for me to pinpoint what to write about.
I have become completely OBSESSED with moving to a place where we can have more land. Maybe 5 acres or so. I want a huge garden, fruit trees, nut trees, grape vines, maybe even some animals. Goats, chickens, even a miniature cow. They are really cute! Of course I want to do this with help. Ideally I would like to hire someone part time to take care of the animals, so we wouldn't be tied to them 24-7. My dream is to be as self sufficient as possible. I believe it would be a great learning experience for my whole family.
So, if you are ever talking to me, and I look like I am not listening. I am probably on my little farm (in my head), walking down my dirt road on a cool summer morning, with a slight breeze in the air. It smells of fresh cut grass, rich soil, and clean air. Every once in a while, you get just a whiff of blossoms on the fruit trees, and homemade baked bread from an open window. Mmmmm. All I can hear is the breeze and children playing and laughing in the background, maybe a dog barking once in a while "come play with me."
Sorry I have to leave now, its time to go check on the animals.......................................
Oh, and don't wake me up from my dream please, even if I am already awake!
I have so many things going through my brain right now, it is hard for me to pinpoint what to write about.
I have become completely OBSESSED with moving to a place where we can have more land. Maybe 5 acres or so. I want a huge garden, fruit trees, nut trees, grape vines, maybe even some animals. Goats, chickens, even a miniature cow. They are really cute! Of course I want to do this with help. Ideally I would like to hire someone part time to take care of the animals, so we wouldn't be tied to them 24-7. My dream is to be as self sufficient as possible. I believe it would be a great learning experience for my whole family.
So, if you are ever talking to me, and I look like I am not listening. I am probably on my little farm (in my head), walking down my dirt road on a cool summer morning, with a slight breeze in the air. It smells of fresh cut grass, rich soil, and clean air. Every once in a while, you get just a whiff of blossoms on the fruit trees, and homemade baked bread from an open window. Mmmmm. All I can hear is the breeze and children playing and laughing in the background, maybe a dog barking once in a while "come play with me."
Sorry I have to leave now, its time to go check on the animals.......................................
Oh, and don't wake me up from my dream please, even if I am already awake!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
I GOT MY PROOF!!!!!!!
I got my "first copy" of my book today. I just have to review it, then send it back. They will make any adjustments, then will print them. YES!!!!!! I should have about 3000 copies by the end of June!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Miguel makes ice-cream?
So Miguel made me some ice-cream for mothers day. I REALLY had a craving, and since I don't, can't, won't, shouldn't, couldn't, wouldn't, eat store bought ice-cream because of the sugar and other evil ingredients......I asked Miguel to make some for me. For those who don't know him, Miguel really doesn't cook. He's great at making eggs, salsa, and tuna fish, and that's about it.
He very dutifully went over to the computer to find my recipe. (My book should be finished by June 2008)
Me: "Are you going to use that recipe?"
Miguel: "Ya."
Me: "We don't have all of those ingredients."
Miguel: "Which ones do we have?"
Me: "We don't have this, and this, and this. (we only had 4 out of 7)"
Miguel: "So what do you want me to do?"
Me: "Make it anyway, I'm a woman on the edge!!!!"
My sweet husband made me the ice-cream. I have to tell you, it was the best ice-cream I have ever had!!! I am still hoarding it to this day. There is just enough for one more bowl for me. Don't tell anyone please, I am hoping they all forgot about it!!
Thank you Miguel, I love you!!
He very dutifully went over to the computer to find my recipe. (My book should be finished by June 2008)
Me: "Are you going to use that recipe?"
Miguel: "Ya."
Me: "We don't have all of those ingredients."
Miguel: "Which ones do we have?"
Me: "We don't have this, and this, and this. (we only had 4 out of 7)"
Miguel: "So what do you want me to do?"
Me: "Make it anyway, I'm a woman on the edge!!!!"
My sweet husband made me the ice-cream. I have to tell you, it was the best ice-cream I have ever had!!! I am still hoarding it to this day. There is just enough for one more bowl for me. Don't tell anyone please, I am hoping they all forgot about it!!
Thank you Miguel, I love you!!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Funny Mother's Day
Saturday I was away at church most of the day helping with a funeral. While I was gone, my sweet kids (Tanner and Emerald) went and got me a Mother's day gift. When I came home, I was in the kitchen getting something to eat, when Logan walks in and says "Happy Mudders Day Mom!!!", while holding up the gift Tanner and Emerald got for me. It was a mat to put on the floor in front of the kitchen sink. Tanner and Emerald were disappointed that Logan spoiled their surprise, but I was extremely grateful. I had been on my feet (in high heels, which I never wear) all day at the funeral. My feet hurt really bad, by the time I got home. It was so nice to stand on that very soft mat. Thank you Tanner, Emerald and Logan, I love you all very much!!!
My First Funeral
I recently was given the opportunity to be the Compassionate Service Leader in our ward. So far it has been pretty easy. A few dinners here and there. Well.........this past week, I had to plan my first funeral. A woman in our ward passed away. I was told to plan for about 75 people. Funeral potatoes,ham, green salads, rolls, desserts, and jello salads were on the menu. I started calling sisters in our ward, and a most wonderful thing happened. Every single person that I talked to was very eager to help, and were able to bring food items to help. I am so greatful for these wonderful people and their willingness to help serve. What a wonderful plan our church has, to offer their services and church and a luncheon at no cost to the family in their time of need and mourning. What a relief it must be for them. These past two weeks in our ward we have had 4 surgeries, and 2 deaths. To have so many people right there to help these families is comforting. We only ended up having about 30 or so for the funeral luncheon, so we were even able to send that family home with a bunch of food, and we took food to the other families in our ward who recently had surgery or were mourning the loss of a loved one. I am so greatful for this calling so that I am able to experience this kind of service, it inspires me to serve more.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Finally some news!!
I have FINALLY heard back from the publisher on my book. They were working with one printer (press), and according to the publishers words " they were trying to pull some shananagins." So they discontinued working with that printer(press) and have now sent my book to another printer. The publisher also asked if they could hurry it along a little bit, since we have already lost so much time (more than a month). It shouldn't be long now.
Friday, April 18, 2008
The mercies of the Lord are infinite!
For the last few weeks I have felt very discouraged. About what? My book is not yet finished, the weather seems to think it is still winter, my future, my next step in life and how I am going to get there. I am sure the list is longer, but lets try to keep it somewhat simple. So the other night I was praying, crying, begging, pleading, asking for help, what do I do next? A book I recently purchased came to mind. Hidden Treasures by Leslie Householder. I just started reading it, so didn't realize the answers for my future, and my next step in life, AND how to get there, are all contained in this book. Not only that, but Leslie Householder has a website, with more helps, and suggestions. I even e-mailed her, and received a response from her the VERY SAME DAY! That is blessing number one. Blessing number two, I was un-expectedly given a cash gift from someone. Blessing number three, I was given a marketing opportunity, for when my book is finished. Blessing number four, I went to Walmart to purchase some turkey manure for our garden. There was no price tag, so I asked the young guy how much it was, he said probably around $1.47, because that was the price of the steer manure. I took 4 bags to the register and they rang up as $5.97 each. I told the clerk, I didn't want them, because the other guy told me they were around $1.47. Instead of taking them back, the clerk only charged me $1.97 for each bag.
When we completely submit to the Lord's will and help, He is always there! Why is it so hard to ALWAYS remember that?
When we completely submit to the Lord's will and help, He is always there! Why is it so hard to ALWAYS remember that?
Monday, April 14, 2008
Architecture of All Abundance Chapter 5
BE PEACE
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
"Our interactions on even the smallest level are very often not peaceful."
"This results in the turmoil that creates a world of individuals living in disharmony with each other and all their resources."
"With the addition of, "My peace be with you," I realized that peace already existed. It was there, gifted, all around me. I didn't have to try to find it--it dwelt in the stillness within and surrounding me; I needed to learn to access it and to express it."
"This propelled me into an exploration of learning to access peace and seeing how a human being could become a pure expression of it in both thought and action."
"What can I master within myself?"
"Taking time to center in the stillness of our Being, we access resources greater than our common tendencies and abilities; it then becomes possible to operate in more elevated ways."
STILLPOINT
Still your self.
Shhh. Grow still.
Hear the silence.
In the quiet
know God.
Lenedra J. Carroll
What I take from this is..........
1-Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ have already given us ALL that we need. It is only a matter of us putting it into action. (Faith is an action word) I ask myself this often, "do I trust the Lord?" if I do, then I have NO need for worry or fear. Worry and fear are Satan's tools, to stop us from progressing.
2-In order for me to "feel" peace in my life, I have to BE PEACE. In my very soul, I have to have peaceful feelings. If I allow negative thoughts or feelings to creep in, the peaceful feeling vanishes. I believe this "peace" is the Holy Ghost, and were we to ALWAYS have the "spirit" with us, we would think and treat others with peace.
3-Last but not least, I have come to believe and know for myself, that this world is TOO NOISY!!!! We HAVE to find ways of shutting out the noise, and find time for quiet prayer, reflection and meditation. Maybe get up 15 minutes earlier, or go to bed 15 minutes later. Go in your backyard on a quiet day, lay down on the grass, dream and breath your life the way you want it to be. Turn off the t.v. the radio, the phone, etc etc. Anything that makes noise in your home. Get to "know" the peace "feeling" in your heart and in your mind.
Now for the challenge, once you have mastered the peaceful "feeling" in quiet and solitude. Practice it at work, at play, with screaming kids, driving, at the store, when faced with a new task, in any stressful situation. If you practice this, you WILL be able to connect with the "peace" feeling in any circumstance.
I am not great at this YET, but am working on it, and have been able to stay calm in some frustrating situations, and because of that, I have had a better outcome, in those circumstances.
All things in RED are taken from Architecture of All Abundance by: Lenedra J. Carroll.
Good Luck everyone!!!
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
"Our interactions on even the smallest level are very often not peaceful."
"This results in the turmoil that creates a world of individuals living in disharmony with each other and all their resources."
"With the addition of, "My peace be with you," I realized that peace already existed. It was there, gifted, all around me. I didn't have to try to find it--it dwelt in the stillness within and surrounding me; I needed to learn to access it and to express it."
"This propelled me into an exploration of learning to access peace and seeing how a human being could become a pure expression of it in both thought and action."
"What can I master within myself?"
"Taking time to center in the stillness of our Being, we access resources greater than our common tendencies and abilities; it then becomes possible to operate in more elevated ways."
STILLPOINT
Still your self.
Shhh. Grow still.
Hear the silence.
In the quiet
know God.
Lenedra J. Carroll
What I take from this is..........
1-Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ have already given us ALL that we need. It is only a matter of us putting it into action. (Faith is an action word) I ask myself this often, "do I trust the Lord?" if I do, then I have NO need for worry or fear. Worry and fear are Satan's tools, to stop us from progressing.
2-In order for me to "feel" peace in my life, I have to BE PEACE. In my very soul, I have to have peaceful feelings. If I allow negative thoughts or feelings to creep in, the peaceful feeling vanishes. I believe this "peace" is the Holy Ghost, and were we to ALWAYS have the "spirit" with us, we would think and treat others with peace.
3-Last but not least, I have come to believe and know for myself, that this world is TOO NOISY!!!! We HAVE to find ways of shutting out the noise, and find time for quiet prayer, reflection and meditation. Maybe get up 15 minutes earlier, or go to bed 15 minutes later. Go in your backyard on a quiet day, lay down on the grass, dream and breath your life the way you want it to be. Turn off the t.v. the radio, the phone, etc etc. Anything that makes noise in your home. Get to "know" the peace "feeling" in your heart and in your mind.
Now for the challenge, once you have mastered the peaceful "feeling" in quiet and solitude. Practice it at work, at play, with screaming kids, driving, at the store, when faced with a new task, in any stressful situation. If you practice this, you WILL be able to connect with the "peace" feeling in any circumstance.
I am not great at this YET, but am working on it, and have been able to stay calm in some frustrating situations, and because of that, I have had a better outcome, in those circumstances.
All things in RED are taken from Architecture of All Abundance by: Lenedra J. Carroll.
Good Luck everyone!!!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Moisture
Okay, so I need to get back on my "positive attitude outfit." I am thankful for the moisture we have had this winter. It has been nice to have cooler (COLD) weather, so I don't have to complain about the heat. White snow looks pretty. Green grass from all the white snow, looks even prettier. I am thankful for a home with heat, electricity, running water, and bathroom facilities. I am thankful for potatoes. (just thought I would throw that one in there.) I am thankful for the extra "stuffing" I have gained over the winter, to keep me warm, and for all of the good food I have consumed to gain this warmth.
That's all I can handle right now. I am feeling ill.
SMILE!
I feel I need to explain my choice of topics. Exercise: because I need to, Frustration: because I took off that outfit, Fun: because this was a little sarcastic, (if you didn't notice), Gratitude: because I really am thankful for potatoes, Healthy Eating: because I have been EATING all winter long, Personal Growth: because I have grown, with all of the food I have been eating.
That's all I can handle right now. I am feeling ill.
SMILE!
I feel I need to explain my choice of topics. Exercise: because I need to, Frustration: because I took off that outfit, Fun: because this was a little sarcastic, (if you didn't notice), Gratitude: because I really am thankful for potatoes, Healthy Eating: because I have been EATING all winter long, Personal Growth: because I have grown, with all of the food I have been eating.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Donuts!
Yesterday I made the best donuts I have ever made!! Everyone loved them!! I didn't use 100% whole wheat, because I wanted to try the recipe first and see if it would turn out, so I used about 1/2 white flour and 1/2 wheat flour. They did turn out, so next time I will use 100% whole wheat, I don't even think you will be able to tell. I also used the "evil and dreaded" powdered sugar to make the glaze. (Sometimes I have to make my family happy for a minute)
So if anyone has a great glaze idea, pass it on, I would love to try something different. The glaze I made was good, but WAY too sweet for me. I will come up with something different next time.
**Just a little tip. When deep frying, the best oil I have found, that gives ANYTHING the absolute BEST flavor is...........................believe it or not, coconut oil. You can find this in health food stores. When I use other oils, they tend to give a rancid taste, especially if eaten the next day. With coconut oil, you NEVER get that because it is a stable fat.
French fries are great, sweet potato fries are great, scones are great, donuts, you name it, it tastes especially GOOD!!
Coconut oil, in my opinion is the ONLY oil you should deep fry with. Most other oils either can't handle the heat, or are already rancid when you buy them.
So if anyone has a great glaze idea, pass it on, I would love to try something different. The glaze I made was good, but WAY too sweet for me. I will come up with something different next time.
**Just a little tip. When deep frying, the best oil I have found, that gives ANYTHING the absolute BEST flavor is...........................believe it or not, coconut oil. You can find this in health food stores. When I use other oils, they tend to give a rancid taste, especially if eaten the next day. With coconut oil, you NEVER get that because it is a stable fat.
French fries are great, sweet potato fries are great, scones are great, donuts, you name it, it tastes especially GOOD!!
Coconut oil, in my opinion is the ONLY oil you should deep fry with. Most other oils either can't handle the heat, or are already rancid when you buy them.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
I LOVE being outside!!
The last few weeks we eat dinner, HURRY and clean up, then go to the dog park and tennis courts. It has been so nice. And to think, I was going to buy a Wii, so we could spend more time together as a family. I am so greatful I couldn't find one in the stores.
The problem is, we have a 13 year old boy and a 4 year old boy, so sometimes it is difficult to find an activity that everyone enjoys.
We take our dog to the dog park, and let her run around for about 30-40 minutes. Then she's happy, and not so annoying at home.
We then go over to the tennis courts and we all play tennis, and run around, so then we are not so annoying at home. We get exercise, fresh air?, and play. We usually play tennis for about 30-40 minutes as well. It is GREAT!!! We all look forward to it everyday. Right now we are going about 4 nights per week, because of other activities on the other nights, or we would probably go more.
There is just one problem with this scenario. I REALLY want to live somewhere, where we can spend time outside all year long, without freezing to death, or burning to death. Does a place like that exist?
The problem is, we have a 13 year old boy and a 4 year old boy, so sometimes it is difficult to find an activity that everyone enjoys.
We take our dog to the dog park, and let her run around for about 30-40 minutes. Then she's happy, and not so annoying at home.
We then go over to the tennis courts and we all play tennis, and run around, so then we are not so annoying at home. We get exercise, fresh air?, and play. We usually play tennis for about 30-40 minutes as well. It is GREAT!!! We all look forward to it everyday. Right now we are going about 4 nights per week, because of other activities on the other nights, or we would probably go more.
There is just one problem with this scenario. I REALLY want to live somewhere, where we can spend time outside all year long, without freezing to death, or burning to death. Does a place like that exist?
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
New Running Shoes
I know I have said it before, but with each day of sun I am becoming more and more alive again. Maybe I was meant to be a bear or something, so I could just hibernate through winter. This winter hit me HARD!
Last winter I was running a lot, so I just "ran" right through winter without too much "dead feeling." This winter I had old shoes, not a good thing for someone who gets shin splints if I even look at old shoes.
Technically I should be buying new running shoes every 5-6 months. That is a lot of money, but I have decided a small price to pay for my sanity, and that of my families. (You know the whole, "the mother sets the tone or mood for the family." A responsibility I don't really like, but know to be true.) I guess my "dead" feeling has overflowed a bit too much. We all have spring fever worse than any other year I can remember.
So the consensus is 1-I either buy new shoes, so I can continue to run, and get those endorphins pumping through my veins. Or..............
2-move to Hawaii for the months of January, February and March.
I'm thinking.................the shoes are less expensive. DARN!
Last winter I was running a lot, so I just "ran" right through winter without too much "dead feeling." This winter I had old shoes, not a good thing for someone who gets shin splints if I even look at old shoes.
Technically I should be buying new running shoes every 5-6 months. That is a lot of money, but I have decided a small price to pay for my sanity, and that of my families. (You know the whole, "the mother sets the tone or mood for the family." A responsibility I don't really like, but know to be true.) I guess my "dead" feeling has overflowed a bit too much. We all have spring fever worse than any other year I can remember.
So the consensus is 1-I either buy new shoes, so I can continue to run, and get those endorphins pumping through my veins. Or..............
2-move to Hawaii for the months of January, February and March.
I'm thinking.................the shoes are less expensive. DARN!
Monday, March 17, 2008
Dog Whisperer
I know this is totally "off" the subject, but this stuff amazed me! So....... I am talking about the Dog Whisperer, Cesar Millan. I have never seen, or heard of dog training done in this way, it is different, and makes a lot more sense to me. To be honest, I sort of thought the guy was a quack in the beginning, because he kept talking about "dog psychology." He also does more training on the people than the dogs!
For the first time in my life I am starting to understand dogs, and all of the things I have been doing wrong. We have a 10 month old German Shepherd. She has been a really good dog, but for about the last month, she has been driving me CRAZY! I was ready to get rid of her, but knew I couldn't do that, so I turned to the idea of training instead.
A friend of mine recommeded the Dog Whisperer to me, so I got the videos at the library. What a difference they have made! Seriously, I have seen IMMEDIATE results. Like you don't believe that something so simple, could make such a big difference, but it does!
So if you have an out of control dog, check it out!
Don't forget: calm, assertive!!!!!!!!
For the first time in my life I am starting to understand dogs, and all of the things I have been doing wrong. We have a 10 month old German Shepherd. She has been a really good dog, but for about the last month, she has been driving me CRAZY! I was ready to get rid of her, but knew I couldn't do that, so I turned to the idea of training instead.
A friend of mine recommeded the Dog Whisperer to me, so I got the videos at the library. What a difference they have made! Seriously, I have seen IMMEDIATE results. Like you don't believe that something so simple, could make such a big difference, but it does!
So if you have an out of control dog, check it out!
Don't forget: calm, assertive!!!!!!!!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Happiness
It has come to my attention, in my mind, with my little brain.....................that you can be happy in any situation. If you are always waiting for the right circumstances to be happy, then you will never be happy!! I am sure you all know this already, but it is something I have been thinking about lately.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
My nieces birthday presents
I made these for my 3 year old neices, Abbey and Kaleigh. A skirt and purse to match. I hope they liked them, they are cute little girly, girls who love purses and jewelry.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Architecture of all Abundance Chapter 4
Centered in Being
Ride your fears, use them to push you along. They irritate, but be patient, use them, don't ignore them.
What you resist will persist, accept the pain, it will go away!
"You are always in the center of your Being, the task is to bring your awareness back to it."
"There is so much to access beyond our individual minds, a vast universe of wisdom that is our birthright. It only requires silence, commitment, and practice."
"Developing the higher intuition involves accessing the wisdom of the Soul (spirit) --becoming responsive to our souls. When one accesses the soul, what comes forth is pure knowingness."
"Know that your Soul (spirit) is connected to the Source of all that is." (Heavenly Father)
Practice talking to your spirit, listen to it. Learn to hear it.
"You will always know your soul's voice by its quality of peace." Read that again!
"Forget about the outcome; forget about how long it will take or whether you will be good enough to do it; forget about whether you are doing it right."
"...the distance between us and what we long for is short......"
"From this place we can have revealed, in our hearts, the purpose and destiny of our humanity. We can BE the peace that we long for."
I know as I have put this into practice, I have had amazing results. For me it takes patience and a conscious effort. It also seems I have to be reminded of doing things like this, that is one reason why I am posting it. 1-to help others, 2-to remind myself.
Have the mental discipline to say "NO" to negative!
Who are the happiest people in the world?
Those activley involved in conscious personal growth.
Homework:
Ask yourself "What is standing in my way of making my dreams come true?"
Then, you need to write down the answer with the hand you DO NOT normally write with.
Doing this uses the other side of your brain, sometimes called "the inner child" and you will get a more honest answer this way. Don't be afraid to use this technique with other questions. I have had great success with this.
Good luck everyone, and happy growth!!
Everything in " " is taken from Architecture of All Abundance by: Lenedra J. Carroll
Ride your fears, use them to push you along. They irritate, but be patient, use them, don't ignore them.
What you resist will persist, accept the pain, it will go away!
"You are always in the center of your Being, the task is to bring your awareness back to it."
"There is so much to access beyond our individual minds, a vast universe of wisdom that is our birthright. It only requires silence, commitment, and practice."
"Developing the higher intuition involves accessing the wisdom of the Soul (spirit) --becoming responsive to our souls. When one accesses the soul, what comes forth is pure knowingness."
"Know that your Soul (spirit) is connected to the Source of all that is." (Heavenly Father)
Practice talking to your spirit, listen to it. Learn to hear it.
"You will always know your soul's voice by its quality of peace." Read that again!
"Forget about the outcome; forget about how long it will take or whether you will be good enough to do it; forget about whether you are doing it right."
"...the distance between us and what we long for is short......"
"From this place we can have revealed, in our hearts, the purpose and destiny of our humanity. We can BE the peace that we long for."
I know as I have put this into practice, I have had amazing results. For me it takes patience and a conscious effort. It also seems I have to be reminded of doing things like this, that is one reason why I am posting it. 1-to help others, 2-to remind myself.
Have the mental discipline to say "NO" to negative!
Who are the happiest people in the world?
Those activley involved in conscious personal growth.
Homework:
Ask yourself "What is standing in my way of making my dreams come true?"
Then, you need to write down the answer with the hand you DO NOT normally write with.
Doing this uses the other side of your brain, sometimes called "the inner child" and you will get a more honest answer this way. Don't be afraid to use this technique with other questions. I have had great success with this.
Good luck everyone, and happy growth!!
Everything in " " is taken from Architecture of All Abundance by: Lenedra J. Carroll
Report Cards
This is just a little brag session. Sorry if that bothers you, but I am really proud of my kids.
Tanner (7th grade) got his report card a couple weeks ago. These are his classes and grades. Art-A, Career Tech-A, Fitness-A, Language Arts-A, Reading-A (and he tested out at college level in reading) Music Appreciation-A, Algebra-A. Great job Tanner, especially in algebra, because that has been a tough class! (and he certainly hasn't had any help from me, since I am horrible at math)
Emerald (4th grade) got her report card today. Reading-A, (she is reading at a 5th grade level) Social Studies-A, Math-A, Science-A, and Type-A. Super job Emerald, keep it up!
I also want to add, how proud I am of both of you, for your self motivation and great responsibility you take in getting your homework done. I never have to ask them to do it, they just come home from school and do their homework before they do anything else.
I love you both!!
Tanner (7th grade) got his report card a couple weeks ago. These are his classes and grades. Art-A, Career Tech-A, Fitness-A, Language Arts-A, Reading-A (and he tested out at college level in reading) Music Appreciation-A, Algebra-A. Great job Tanner, especially in algebra, because that has been a tough class! (and he certainly hasn't had any help from me, since I am horrible at math)
Emerald (4th grade) got her report card today. Reading-A, (she is reading at a 5th grade level) Social Studies-A, Math-A, Science-A, and Type-A. Super job Emerald, keep it up!
I also want to add, how proud I am of both of you, for your self motivation and great responsibility you take in getting your homework done. I never have to ask them to do it, they just come home from school and do their homework before they do anything else.
I love you both!!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Angel Food Cake
I thought this would make a good Spring recipe. Enjoy!
Angel Food Cake
5 egg whites (best at room temperature)
¼ tsp sea salt
¼ cup cornstarch
1/3 cup fresh-ground whole wheat flour
½ tsp vanilla
½ cup raw honey
In a mixing bowl whip egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl blend flour and cornstarch. Add honey and vanilla to egg whites, mixing lightly. Fold in flour mixture with a whisk. Pour into an un-greased 9 inch funnel cake pan.
Place into 375°F pre-heated oven. Bake 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. After you remove the cake from the oven while still in the pan turn upside down and let hang for 2 hours or until cake has cooled completely. Remove from pan and top with Sweetened Whipped Cream (page ) and fresh fruit. Tiffany’s Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2008 All rights reserved
5 egg whites (best at room temperature)
¼ tsp sea salt
¼ cup cornstarch
1/3 cup fresh-ground whole wheat flour
½ tsp vanilla
½ cup raw honey
In a mixing bowl whip egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl blend flour and cornstarch. Add honey and vanilla to egg whites, mixing lightly. Fold in flour mixture with a whisk. Pour into an un-greased 9 inch funnel cake pan.
Place into 375°F pre-heated oven. Bake 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. After you remove the cake from the oven while still in the pan turn upside down and let hang for 2 hours or until cake has cooled completely. Remove from pan and top with Sweetened Whipped Cream (page ) and fresh fruit. Tiffany’s Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2008 All rights reserved
Can it be true?
I am a little hesitant to post this, but I just can't stand it any longer. The book cover is FINALLY finished!!! That is all we were waiting for. They will print the first copy, and then send it back to me to check and make sure I approve. This will take place in South Korea, so I am not sure how long it will take to get back, maybe 2-3 weeks. After that they will print 3000 copies, mail a handful back, then ship the rest. YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! It feels great to be finished.
However I have started the next book. I have been coming up with some unbelievable recipes lately. Marshmallow Brownies, Bolognese Sauce, and Italian Mayonnaise, just to name a few.
The sun is shining, spring is in the air, and my book is finished, what could be better?
Is there any recipes any of you would like me to work on?
However I have started the next book. I have been coming up with some unbelievable recipes lately. Marshmallow Brownies, Bolognese Sauce, and Italian Mayonnaise, just to name a few.
The sun is shining, spring is in the air, and my book is finished, what could be better?
Is there any recipes any of you would like me to work on?
Saturday, February 23, 2008
The Flu-part 2
I can't forget my friends!!! Dinners were brought in, movies, books, and help with rides from school!! Thank you, I have the best friends in the world!
Friday, February 22, 2008
The flu
Yea, I got the flu this year. Fever, chills, aches, headache, coughing, eyeballs feel like they are going to burn right out of the socket, etc. etc. I have the greatest family. The first day I was sick I was laying in bed, Logan (4 yr old) went and got me my water bottle, without me even asking him to, then he asked "mom, do you want anything to eat?" How sweet. Miguel worked late, hardly got any sleep, but still took care of the home stuff, laundry, dishes, kids. He also went to the Health Food Store, a couple of times, to get me some homeopathics. He's the man. The next day I was craving pancakes. So I asked Emerald (10 yr old) if she would make me some, she said yes. Let me tell you, they were the best pancakes I have ever had. Thank you Emerald. Tanner was my gopher, a little less furry, but a good gopher none the less. Apple juice was mostly what he was after. Thanks Tanner.
**Just a side note, when I am sick I seem to crave things I normally don't eat. Weird huh! I had white flour pancakes and tons of apple juice. Both of which I never eat or drink.
Thank you all for your help and love, I am glad to be feeling better, and hope to never be sick again.
**Just a side note, when I am sick I seem to crave things I normally don't eat. Weird huh! I had white flour pancakes and tons of apple juice. Both of which I never eat or drink.
Thank you all for your help and love, I am glad to be feeling better, and hope to never be sick again.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The cover is almost done!!!!
Okay, so the book cover is almost finished! FINALLY!!!!! There is just a little more on the wording for the back that we need to work on. But the front cover is finished, and it looks great, if I do say so myself.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Poor Emerald
Well, it happened again. Emerald's ear piercings got infected. I guess her body just doesn't want her to have pierced ears. I am proud of her though, she decided all on her own, to take out her earrings and let the holes close up. She said she will just get clip-on earrings. I am proud of you Emerald for handling this so well. (once we got the earrings out, anyway) I guess people will just have to look at your beautiful eyes instead!
Love, mom
Love, mom
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Black Bean Salsa
Black Bean Salsa
1 ½ cups cooked black beans
1 15oz. can corn or 2 cups fresh corn
6 medium tomatoes, chopped
½ cup sweet onion, chopped
1 jalapeno, chopped (use as little or as much as you like)
Fresh squeezed lemon juice from 2 lemons
½-1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Sea salt to taste
Dash of cayenne pepper
In a large mixing bowl combine all the ingredients. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or leave in the refrigerator overnight so flavors can come together. Serve with Homemade Corn Chips (page ) and Sprouted Tortilla Chips
(page ). Tiffany’s Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2007 All rights reserved.
1 ½ cups cooked black beans
1 15oz. can corn or 2 cups fresh corn
6 medium tomatoes, chopped
½ cup sweet onion, chopped
1 jalapeno, chopped (use as little or as much as you like)
Fresh squeezed lemon juice from 2 lemons
½-1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Sea salt to taste
Dash of cayenne pepper
In a large mixing bowl combine all the ingredients. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or leave in the refrigerator overnight so flavors can come together. Serve with Homemade Corn Chips (page ) and Sprouted Tortilla Chips
(page ). Tiffany’s Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2007 All rights reserved.
Architecture of all Abundance Chapter 3
Taken from the book: Architecture of all Abundance by: Lenedra Carroll
"I once heard a scientist say that if all of the space in our body was removed, the remaining physical matter would fit on the head of a pin."
If this is true, and I believe it is...............then it makes sense how people can heal themselves of terminal illness (keeping in mind the Lords will) You know the old saying "mind over matter."
Doesn't that take on a whole new meaning when you think of it in this context? If the matter is so very small, and we believe we can make a change, then it seems...............almost easy. We really have more "power" than we think we do.
"Stillness creates space in our thoughts and our embodiments. Without the space that silence, rest, and breath give us, our lives, our bodies, our minds grow tightly compressed. We experience that compression as stress, fatigue, and ill health."
"Space makes great energy available to us." "Love requires space to blossom. Creativity requires space for its development. Time requires space. Abundance also. Genius cannot be accessed without space. Health as well. And MAGIC"
"People seem to forget all the magic when they grow up."
"Know that you are more than the things that happen to you. Always make space for magic to happen."
Find more space in your life. Quiet, makes space for me. Fresh air, makes space for me. Feeling love, makes space for me. Whatever it is, try to tap into "your space" often. "Go to the happy place in your head." Thats what I tell Tanner to do for one of his classes at school, because the teacher is a screamer. Remember what it feels like to BELIEVE. Find your space, AND THEN ................MAKE SPACE FOR MAGIC!!!
"I once heard a scientist say that if all of the space in our body was removed, the remaining physical matter would fit on the head of a pin."
If this is true, and I believe it is...............then it makes sense how people can heal themselves of terminal illness (keeping in mind the Lords will) You know the old saying "mind over matter."
Doesn't that take on a whole new meaning when you think of it in this context? If the matter is so very small, and we believe we can make a change, then it seems...............almost easy. We really have more "power" than we think we do.
"Stillness creates space in our thoughts and our embodiments. Without the space that silence, rest, and breath give us, our lives, our bodies, our minds grow tightly compressed. We experience that compression as stress, fatigue, and ill health."
"Space makes great energy available to us." "Love requires space to blossom. Creativity requires space for its development. Time requires space. Abundance also. Genius cannot be accessed without space. Health as well. And MAGIC"
"People seem to forget all the magic when they grow up."
"Know that you are more than the things that happen to you. Always make space for magic to happen."
Find more space in your life. Quiet, makes space for me. Fresh air, makes space for me. Feeling love, makes space for me. Whatever it is, try to tap into "your space" often. "Go to the happy place in your head." Thats what I tell Tanner to do for one of his classes at school, because the teacher is a screamer. Remember what it feels like to BELIEVE. Find your space, AND THEN ................MAKE SPACE FOR MAGIC!!!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
I'm fine now!
Okay, so its like this. Somethings or sometimes, you don't realize how much they are effecting you until you stop doing it and then start again. If you read my last blog, you have probably guessed I am talking about walking. For me to be "normal" I NEED to walk at least 3-4 times per week on a regular basis. When I don't......... I turn into my last blog. Sad huh! I feel sorry for whoever had to read through that insanity, so I just want you to know, I AM FINE NOW. The sun is shining and I am walking again! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, THE SUN in the winter!! In the summer I love it too, but not so much the heat. I would be happy if it never got hotter than about 75°F. Every summer I threaten to move to Alaska. Just for the summer though, because I couldn't live without the sun.
I'll have more later, got to go.
I'll have more later, got to go.
Friday, February 1, 2008
All I needed is a walk and some perspective
Let me start out by saying, that when I don't go on regular walks (outside) something bad happens to my psyche. Let me also say that I haven't been going for regular walks since before Christmas. BAD BAD BAD!!!! So when you read the rest of this blog you should know "I was not in my right mind."
Logan just got over being sick last week. (I talk about that in an earlier blog.) As I mentioned before, whenever he is sick, he wants me to sit and hold him ALL THE TIME. Well for some reason, he still hasn't gotten over that, he still wants me to hold him all the time.
Between that, AND the weather, AND not walking I have been feeling completely SMOTHERED!!!!! I am suffocating!!!! I CAN'T BREATHE!!!!!!! Do you hear me? I am going crazy, I feel like I am in solitary confinement!! Okay, take a breather! I am really not that dramatic.
So I went for a walk today. Although the sun was not out, I do feel much better. I wore snow boots, so I walked and sloshed through all of the slush and snow, it felt good. I ran into a friend, and told her I was walking off some frustration. She asked what I was frustrated about. So I said I just needed 2 minutes away from Logan, because he wants me to hold him all of the time, and he is 4 years old. Her comment put everything into perspective. She said "at least you know he loves you." Whoa!!! Wake up!! I should be grateful! Then as I continued on my walk, I passed a neighbors house who does daycare, and saw a mother picking up her child and giving her a kiss. Another WHOA! At least I am home, for Logan to smother me to death, and for me to give him a kiss anytime during the day. I should be gratetful!
So..............the moral of this story is, don't put off your daily walks, and be grateful for loving children! Thank you Sheradee for helping me realize this!
Logan just got over being sick last week. (I talk about that in an earlier blog.) As I mentioned before, whenever he is sick, he wants me to sit and hold him ALL THE TIME. Well for some reason, he still hasn't gotten over that, he still wants me to hold him all the time.
Between that, AND the weather, AND not walking I have been feeling completely SMOTHERED!!!!! I am suffocating!!!! I CAN'T BREATHE!!!!!!! Do you hear me? I am going crazy, I feel like I am in solitary confinement!! Okay, take a breather! I am really not that dramatic.
So I went for a walk today. Although the sun was not out, I do feel much better. I wore snow boots, so I walked and sloshed through all of the slush and snow, it felt good. I ran into a friend, and told her I was walking off some frustration. She asked what I was frustrated about. So I said I just needed 2 minutes away from Logan, because he wants me to hold him all of the time, and he is 4 years old. Her comment put everything into perspective. She said "at least you know he loves you." Whoa!!! Wake up!! I should be grateful! Then as I continued on my walk, I passed a neighbors house who does daycare, and saw a mother picking up her child and giving her a kiss. Another WHOA! At least I am home, for Logan to smother me to death, and for me to give him a kiss anytime during the day. I should be gratetful!
So..............the moral of this story is, don't put off your daily walks, and be grateful for loving children! Thank you Sheradee for helping me realize this!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Logan's 5 years old? or is he?
I was just reminded of something funny Logan did, so now I have to write about it.
A few weeks ago, I made a cake. (not for any particular reason) So Logan decided that he wanted to celebrate his "pretend birthday." I put candles on the cake and we sang "happy birthday" to him and everything. After that he said "I'm 5 now right?" "I said well........not really, your are still 4 until your real birthday." (in May) He started arguing with me, so I said "okay, you can be whatever you want." If you ask him now, how old he is, he will always say "5", and if you tell him he is really only "4", then he will say "my mom said I can be whatever I want!"
At least he had determination!
A few weeks ago, I made a cake. (not for any particular reason) So Logan decided that he wanted to celebrate his "pretend birthday." I put candles on the cake and we sang "happy birthday" to him and everything. After that he said "I'm 5 now right?" "I said well........not really, your are still 4 until your real birthday." (in May) He started arguing with me, so I said "okay, you can be whatever you want." If you ask him now, how old he is, he will always say "5", and if you tell him he is really only "4", then he will say "my mom said I can be whatever I want!"
At least he had determination!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Our Prophet Has Passed
My heart is broken and rejoicing all at the same time. Broken for me, and all of us, and rejoicing for him. President Gordon B. Hinckley is, and always will be one of the most influential men who has ever lived. His humor, his dedication to the Lord, his un-ending service, his work ethic, his unconditional love, his positive attitude, and the way he naturally made people feel comfortable with him, are just some of the reasons I love him. He will be deeply missed.
I imagine he is rejoicing with his wife Marjorie Pay Hinckley, with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, with our Heavenly Father, with his family members and friends, and with the apostles and prophets past. I love this man with all my heart, and am greatful to have known him.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Miguel is alive!
We had a wonderful blessing the same day we had the big snow storm! Miguel got in an accident on his way home from work. He actually spun around on the freeway and was facing the wrong direction. Luckily no other cars hit him, he just hit the divider. We are blessed in 2 ways. First Miguel didn't get hurt at all, second his car is still in driving condition. We called the insurance when he got home, so we could get his car fixed, and were reminded that we don't have collision insurance on his car anymore. We had forgotten we did that.
I am so greatful Miguel is fine, he is my world! He is the fun, excitement and joy in our family.
I am so greatful Miguel is fine, he is my world! He is the fun, excitement and joy in our family.
Thank you for keeping him safe, Heavenly Father.
Bean Barley Chocolate Chip Cookies
Another bean, barley creation. YUMMY!!!!
Tiffany's Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2008 all rights reserved.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Carrot, Pineapple Cake with some secret ingredients
I made this cake today. Everyone really liked it, its very good!
The secret ingredients are navy beans and barley that I soaked overnight and then cooked together until soft. I frosted it with homemade cream cheese frosting, sweetened with raw honey. Who wants the recipe? Okay here it is....................
Carrot Bean Barley Cake
1 stick butter
1 cup raw honey
3 eggs
1 cup barley, bean puree
1 cup pineapple chunks
½ cup reserved juice from pineapple chunks
2 cups grated carrots
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups fresh-ground whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp sea salt
Cream butter, honey and eggs in a large mixing bowl. In a blender puree barley and beans with the pineapple, and pineapple juice. Pour bean mixture into butter mixture. Stir in grated carrots, and vanilla. In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients together, add the dry ingredients, to the wet ingredients and mix, just until blended. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch pan and bake in a pre-heated 350° oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool and top with Buttery Cream Cheese Frosting.
Barley, bean puree
1 cup small navy beans
1 cup barley
Enough water to cover
Soak beans and barley overnight in water, or for at least 7 hours. Drain, pour into a medium sauce pan, cover with water and cook until tender. Refrigerate. Use 1 cup in this recipe, and add the rest to your favorite soup recipe. Tiffany’s Table LLC ©copyright 2007-2008 All rights reserved.
Setting goals
Okay, I have learned a new way of goal setting. Maybe you already knew about this, but it is new to me.
When setting goals, ALWAYS write it down, and NEVER use ANY negativity in your wording. For example: If you goal is to lose weight, DO NOT write down, (or THINK) "I need to, or want to lose weight." Your subconscious mind will read that as: "Oh, no I am going to lose something, so I better hold on to it...................and..................what is it you are trying to (lose).......weight? So your body will tell you to "hold on to your weight" because it doesn't want to lose something. Very profound, isn't it!!!
Instead you should write down, and say to yourself, "It feels so good to be healthy and active and have the body I enjoy!"
Another example "I want to get out of debt" Again, the words are focusing on the wrong thing, (debt) therefore, your subconscious mind will also. Instead you should write down, and say to yourself, "it feels so good to be independently wealthy, I feel free now, knowing that I own the title to my car and the deed to my home, and always have $xxxxx amount of money in the bank."
***Another "key" to this of course, is to also thank Heavenly Father for these gifts, but do it with the feeling that it has already happened. You HAVE to feel the feelings "as if" it has already come to pass.
I have put this to the test, and will let you all know what happens. The goals I made are somewhat long term goals, so you will have to wait, but I have faith in this process, and have "felt" the feelings already, so I know it will come to pass, I just don't know the exact date!
I hope you will try this!!
When setting goals, ALWAYS write it down, and NEVER use ANY negativity in your wording. For example: If you goal is to lose weight, DO NOT write down, (or THINK) "I need to, or want to lose weight." Your subconscious mind will read that as: "Oh, no I am going to lose something, so I better hold on to it...................and..................what is it you are trying to (lose).......weight? So your body will tell you to "hold on to your weight" because it doesn't want to lose something. Very profound, isn't it!!!
Instead you should write down, and say to yourself, "It feels so good to be healthy and active and have the body I enjoy!"
Another example "I want to get out of debt" Again, the words are focusing on the wrong thing, (debt) therefore, your subconscious mind will also. Instead you should write down, and say to yourself, "it feels so good to be independently wealthy, I feel free now, knowing that I own the title to my car and the deed to my home, and always have $xxxxx amount of money in the bank."
***Another "key" to this of course, is to also thank Heavenly Father for these gifts, but do it with the feeling that it has already happened. You HAVE to feel the feelings "as if" it has already come to pass.
I have put this to the test, and will let you all know what happens. The goals I made are somewhat long term goals, so you will have to wait, but I have faith in this process, and have "felt" the feelings already, so I know it will come to pass, I just don't know the exact date!
I hope you will try this!!
Logan's back
So................for the last few days Logan has been sick. Fever, a little cough, congestion, you know the drill. Well whenever he gets sick he likes me to sit with him all day and hold him. Its really great for the first day, because my extremely active 4 year old, sits still long enough for me to cuddle with him, I like that. Then after the first day of sitting, watching cartoons and more sitting, I start to go a little crazy. So last night I was praying that he would get better, and thinking "I wish my happy, crazy, NOISY little boy was back, I miss him, it is too quiet in the house." My prayer was answered and my wish came true, Logan yelled at me this morning! I'm not sure I was totally thrilled with that, but it is his way. If he has the least amount of frustration, it comes out in LOUD sounds from his body. He kindof reminds me of my brother Terry. When he was little, we would all be sitting there playing or whatever, and all of a sudden he would just scream, like if he didn't he might explode! It's funny to think of that now. Sorry Terry (and Stef), does Terry still do that?
Anyway, the point is, my little boy is back! I'm happy. His appetite is back as well, thank goodness! He hardly ate anything for 2 days.
I love you Logan!
Anyway, the point is, my little boy is back! I'm happy. His appetite is back as well, thank goodness! He hardly ate anything for 2 days.
I love you Logan!
Monday, January 21, 2008
SNOW!!!!!!
This is what we woke up to this morning! 13-14 inches of snow!!! The kids and the dog had fun!Notice how much snow is on the neighbors car.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Tiffany's Gluten-Free Bread
Tiffany’s Gluten-Free Bread
1 cup brown rice flour
¼ cup lentil flour
1 cup masa harina
¼ cup tapioca flour
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp aluminum-free, Gf, baking powder
1 cup water
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 tbsp raw honey
2 eggs
¼ cup grape seed oil
1 tbsp raw, apple-cider vinegar
In a large bowl mix water, yeast and honey, allow to rest while preparing other ingredients or about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients together. Stir eggs and grape seed oil into water mixture. Add dry ingredients and cider vinegar. Mix until well blended. Spoon into two, greased, medium sized bread pans. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour. Bake in pre-heated 350°F oven for 30-40 minutes.
Alternative cooking method:
After dough has risen. Heat a cast iron skillet, to medium low. Butter the pan lightly, then carefully spoon out 1 heaping tbsp of dough onto skillet, (slightly spread out each one) add as many as you can fit into the pan. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes per side, then turn again and cook an additional 3 minutes per side with a lid on.
1 cup brown rice flour
¼ cup lentil flour
1 cup masa harina
¼ cup tapioca flour
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp aluminum-free, Gf, baking powder
1 cup water
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 tbsp raw honey
2 eggs
¼ cup grape seed oil
1 tbsp raw, apple-cider vinegar
In a large bowl mix water, yeast and honey, allow to rest while preparing other ingredients or about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients together. Stir eggs and grape seed oil into water mixture. Add dry ingredients and cider vinegar. Mix until well blended. Spoon into two, greased, medium sized bread pans. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour. Bake in pre-heated 350°F oven for 30-40 minutes.
Alternative cooking method:
After dough has risen. Heat a cast iron skillet, to medium low. Butter the pan lightly, then carefully spoon out 1 heaping tbsp of dough onto skillet, (slightly spread out each one) add as many as you can fit into the pan. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes per side, then turn again and cook an additional 3 minutes per side with a lid on.
©Copyright 2007-2008 Tiffany's Table LLC
Emerald's new pj's
As you can see, I made a HUGE mistake in the length across the shoulders. I used 2 different patterns and then changed them, so I didn't take the shoulder length into consideration. Ooopps! Emerald is still willing to wear them, and likes them, so that's what counts. I kept the pattern that I made and may try making a dress with the same pattern, maybe? I was surprised how much I had to re-learn as I was going, but then it all seemed to come back to me.
I would have gotten it done sooner, but it took me 2 or 3 days of "thinking" and getting myself ready to thread my serger. Not a fun task! In the end it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. As I said before, this is supposed to be for fun and learning. I definately learned, not quite sure about the fun. I really want to get better at this though, so I have to keep trying.
If anyone knows of a good book that explains the basics of sewing and "how" to put things together, like what order to sew things together etc, please pass it along.
THE JACKRABBIT FACTOR a story, by Leslie Householder
I have another exciting and great book to recommend to you all. This book is an absolutely EASY read, written in a "story" version to get the point across. It focuses on how to get what you want out of life. At the back of the book is even ideas in helping you to write down your own goals and how to "word" it right. I loved this book because it is so simplistic, yet very profound at the same time. I would love to hear from any of you who read this book.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Jane
My latest obsession is................................................Jane Austen movies and books
In the last 2 months I have watched Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice (the 6 hour version) and most of Persuasion. I can't wait to see the others. I am going to the library this week, so I think I will get one of the books also.
The only problem with this is, now I want to wear a dress?????? How weird is that? I am not normally big on dresses. Maybe its because I am down to one pair of jeans, without holes or paint stains on them. Also with a dress, they are more like one size fits all, jeans are so HARD to find a good fit!
Anyone else having dress issues? Or Jane Austen obsessions?
In the last 2 months I have watched Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice (the 6 hour version) and most of Persuasion. I can't wait to see the others. I am going to the library this week, so I think I will get one of the books also.
The only problem with this is, now I want to wear a dress?????? How weird is that? I am not normally big on dresses. Maybe its because I am down to one pair of jeans, without holes or paint stains on them. Also with a dress, they are more like one size fits all, jeans are so HARD to find a good fit!
Anyone else having dress issues? Or Jane Austen obsessions?
Friday, January 11, 2008
The last type-set version (I hope)
I finally got the type-set version back again. It took a day longer than I thought it would. I was a little concerned it got lost somewhere.
This version has color pictures and looks great! It makes me more excited for the real thing. I will finish up my part this weekend then return it on monday. I think this will be the last time we need to do this. YES!
I am hoping (faithing) the cover to be done by monday, so I will have a chance to look at that also. Then we can send it to press!
It really is almost done!
This version has color pictures and looks great! It makes me more excited for the real thing. I will finish up my part this weekend then return it on monday. I think this will be the last time we need to do this. YES!
I am hoping (faithing) the cover to be done by monday, so I will have a chance to look at that also. Then we can send it to press!
It really is almost done!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Type-set back again and again and again
As for the book, it is still in progress. I will be getting it back from the publisher once again this week, to re-check the last adjustments that were made. I am hoping this will be the last time. I was going to go and pick it up today, (30 minute drive one way) but it was like a blizzard outside, so I just asked them to mail it to me. I will return it to them on monday, as I have to go and pick up milk, (60 minute drive one way) and the publisher is on the way. This way it saves me one trip.
I haven't seen what they have done with the front cover yet. All I do know, is that, they wanted less of the background from the picture I gave them, which will only take up some of the front cover.
I haven't seen what they have done with the front cover yet. All I do know, is that, they wanted less of the background from the picture I gave them, which will only take up some of the front cover.
Sewing
As I have been reading my friends blog, I am now inspired to start sewing again. Let me tell you what usually happens. I get out all of my sewing stuff, try to make something, am not 100% satisfied with it, put away all of my sewing stuff, and wonder why I ever got it out in the first place, then hide whatever I made. This time I am going to have a positive attitude, not expect perfection (like I should be as good as a world renowned designer) and just consider this a learning experience.
I actually have this really cool pattern making book. It has over 300 patterns and you custom make them to fit each person. Its called Lutterloh if anyone has ever heard of it. The only problem with it is, it doesn't come with instructions for each pattern on how to sew them together. Which is a problem for me because I am not experienced enough to know all of the steps. I sometimes use an old pattern with directions to guide me, and that works well as long as the patterns are somewhat similar.
So this time I am making a nightgown for Emerald, I'll take pictures when I am done. In the past I have made a few cute things for her that have turned out, so there is some hope for me yet.
I actually have this really cool pattern making book. It has over 300 patterns and you custom make them to fit each person. Its called Lutterloh if anyone has ever heard of it. The only problem with it is, it doesn't come with instructions for each pattern on how to sew them together. Which is a problem for me because I am not experienced enough to know all of the steps. I sometimes use an old pattern with directions to guide me, and that works well as long as the patterns are somewhat similar.
So this time I am making a nightgown for Emerald, I'll take pictures when I am done. In the past I have made a few cute things for her that have turned out, so there is some hope for me yet.
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