Brookie's Cookie Jar

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T09:51:00.007-07:00

I am sending out a great big Valentine's Hug to all my many friends, family, blogging buddies, and my faithful blogging followers. I hope it is a wonderful day filled with "Lot's O' Love" ♥♥

Chocolate Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

2012-02-14T09:44:00.002-07:00

Makes 24 sandwiches.........Yummy

Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons Homemade Vanilla Extract Homemade Vanilla Extract
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk
2 to 2 1/2 pints strawberry ice cream, softened

Directions
1.In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter, vanilla, and sugar. Add eggs and milk, and mix until combined. Add reserved flour mixture, and mix on low speed until incorporated, scraping the sides of the bowl at least once. Divide the dough in half, and shape each half into a flat disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap, and chill until firm, about 1 hour.

2.Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Roll dough out on a floured surface, sliding an offset spatula under the dough to release it every few turns of the rolling pin. Roll dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut dough using a variety of heart-shape cookie cutters 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter, making sure each cookie has a match to make a sandwich. Place hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet; chill until firm, about 30 minutes. Remove from refrigerator; use a fork to prick the cookies all over with holes. Bake until just firm, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet; transfer to a wire rack.

3.With the underside of half the cookies face up, spoon softened strawberry ice cream about 1/2 inch thick to cover one side. Place matching cookie on top of ice cream, top side facing out. Transfer immediately to freezer to harden; repeat with remaining cookies and ice cream. Serve directly from the freezer. Sandwiches can be kept stored in an airtight container in the freezer for 3 to 4 days.

Cupcake Liner Storage

2012-02-12T17:33:00.004-07:00

So Clever.....Love this!

For The Beauty Of The Earth

2012-02-12T15:55:00.032-07:00

So.... today, after church I decided to head up the canyon on a two hour hike along the Parus Trail and I thought I would take photos all along the way .......so you could go with me too! I have said it hundreds of times before but "I live in one of the most sacred places in the world" and I just have to share it!

The awesome Zion Shuttle buses sleeping! It won't be long now....April 1st. Get rested!

When my grandkidos are here we love to ride the buses!

Oh no......didn't see the mud on the road here.........red hills, red dirt and red mud! Thats our Zion!

This view is past the bus yard and this is housing for seasonal employees.

Another view and I love this cause here is the playground for the seasonal employess with children. It always reminds me of one of the Terminator episodes where the playground looks alot like this after the fall out! Eek............

Finally back up my street and homeward bound! Talk about cloud coverage! Where the heck is my mountain?

KISS

2012-02-12T13:03:00.002-07:00

A fun gift, make a huge rice crispie "Kiss". I would add some little hershie's kisses in with it or dip the lot into chocolate! Either way it would be fun, simple and all of us can get the original recipe off a Box of Rice Krispies! :-)

Just Dreaming......

2012-02-11T19:15:00.002-07:00

bout ......MY DREAM KITCHEN!

FROM houzz.com

THIS CLOSET IS PERFECT FOR ME! JUST THROW A BLOW UP BED IN HERE!

Our Girlies

2012-02-11T13:43:00.005-07:00

Our little Wynter loves her baby sister River! I can't believe how fast newborns change....
Wynter must have decided that she was ready for her first cozy coupe ride!

Wagon Wheel Herb Garden

2012-02-11T08:04:00.004-07:00

How cool is this idea? Right about now I am wishing I had my three wagon wheels that someone stole out of my yard years ago. I haven't priced them lately but I am guessing it's near the price of "ridiculous"! I know the photo is small....but you get the idea. I am doing this!

Fridge Organizer

2012-02-10T09:14:00.005-07:00

I simply love this idea and sometimes....upon opening a fridge it can be scarey!

From Crate and Barrel.com

and find it here: http://www.crateandbarrel.com/kitchen-and-food/food-containers-storage/fridge-soda-can-organizer/s310576

Pretzel Buttons

2012-02-10T08:14:00.005-07:00

Are you even kidding me with these! So simple and sooooo cute! Who even knew they made square pretzels......have I been living under a rock?

What you'll need:
square pretzels
Hershey's Hugs (you can use Kisses, too, but I think the Hugs taste better and they definitely soften up better!)
plain M&Ms

Directions:
Preheat oven to 200°.
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or Silpat. Place the pretzels on and top them with the hugs.
Bake for 4-5 minutes until the chocolate is shiny and soft (but NOT melting).
Carefully place an M&M in the center of each hug and press it down to spread the chocolate.
Allow to cool completely (a few minutes in the fridge works perfectly) and enjoy!

Valentine Cupcakes

2012-02-09T18:41:00.009-07:00

I think these are just the most delicious looking cupcakes on the web and I am really craving one right about now............It's a darn good thing the market is not next door!

M&M Samoa Blondies

2012-02-09T14:49:00.004-07:00

These blondies are so rich and brown sugar-y . . . and with the cute M&M's on top, you can't resist them. I don't think that they taste too much like a Samoa Cookie, but don't let that stop you from making them.

M&M Samoa BlondiesRecipe source: Recipe Girl

Ingredients:
10 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour1
1/4 cups sweetened flaked coconut
1 1/4 cups mini M&M’sa few extra M&M’s

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 8x8-inch pan with nonstick spray and then line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it browns and begins to smell nutty (watch it closely so it doesn’t burn). Let the butter cool for a few minutes, until just barely warm.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter and sugars. With a wooden spoon, stir in egg, vanilla and salt. Stir in flour, coconut and M&M’s until batter is blended.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Sprinkle a few additional M&M’s on top. Bake 25 to 30 minutes. Let the blondies cool before turning them out onto a cutting board and slicing into squares (chilling them will make that process even easier).

Side Notes:*Use chocolate chips in place of M&M’s if you’d like.*For slightly gooey, underbaked blondies, bake for 25 minutes. For fully baked blondies, bake the entire 30 minutes (I baked mine for about 27 minutes and I thought that they were perfect!).

Mint to Be..........

2012-02-09T14:43:00.001-07:00

Valentine's Day Marshmellow Pops

2012-02-09T14:31:00.008-07:00

How stinking cute are these?

First cut a small slit in the top of the marshmallows to allow you to insert your straw. If you skip this step you just might mash your marshmallows!

1. Insert the straws or popsicle sticks and put them in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes. They do not take long to freeze and by doing this, the marshmallow is adhered more securely to the straw.

2. Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate in the microwave on medium heat and stir every 30 seconds. White chocolate seems to burn a lot easier than regular chocolate so watch it closely! Add your food coloring if desired.

3. Next up is the fun part: decorating! Dip the frozen marshmallows in the white chocolate. You will want to tap the excess white chocolate off. The frozen marshmallow will make the chocolate harden quickly so don’t wait too long before dipping them into the sprinkles.

These would make lovely Valentine’s Day gifts or treats all wrapped up in clear plastic and a pretty ribbon!

Nana's Girl

2012-02-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

My little Wynter Brooke got her Valentine's package from her Nana!

Sign This Petition!

2012-02-08T15:03:00.004-07:00

As most of the world knows.......we here in the state of Utah and Washington state have suffered a tremendous loss. It really is just to overwhelming for many of us to even begin to process and it is still to difficult to talk about.

We can only try to move forward from today and it is our wish that we could have you sign a petition requiring that "supervised visitations to take place in neutral location".

Please.....Please sign this petition! The internet is such a strong tool on getting the information out there and I just can't resist helping out with this cause.

Please visit here to sign this petition: http://www.change.org/petitions/us-senators-congressman-require-supervised-visitations-to-take-place-in-neutral-location

Real Simple

2012-02-07T17:25:00.006-07:00

I love this magazine! Yes.........I think this could be the same magazine that I lifted from the Dr.'s office last month ............(tee-hee)! I have just purchased my first issue and seriously, I really love it! There is tons of stuff for me in here..........great articles that actually interest me! Lots of cool recipes and other fun stuff. What is even cooler is that the pages feel different, like the paper has a really neat feel to it. If you get a chance... check one out!

I subscribe to only two other magazines and those are Family Tree (genealogy) and The Smithsonian........What an old crusty I am getting to be!!! A few years back I was occasionally buying "People" magazine and seriously, what was up with that? I do have to admit that when I travel I will pick up a copy every so often but now I will travel with my new issue of "Real Simple" on my trip this month.

Who Is Your Favorite Fictional Couple?

2012-02-07T16:24:00.013-07:00

Yes, Yes.......I know! Crazy post for me but Valentine's Day is soon to be upon us!

I have several couples that come to mind here.........Fictional of course (hence the title of my post).

I am not a big believer in relationships........and yes, I can say this cause "It's my blog and I can write what I want". Wowza...........

When Fermina Daza and Florentino Ariza, from Gabriel Garcia Marquez's Love in the Time of Cholera, fall in love in their youth, they forge a bond that time and separation cannot break. Even as decades pass, Florentino holds out hope that Fermina's husband will die and that she will express her true feelings for him. When they finally get together in their old age, their connection is still as powerful as it was more than 50 years earlier.

Of course, no one can ever forget Mr. Darcy, from Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice. He's a pompous jerk but it truly is one of my most favorite love stories of all times! My favorite line of the entire movie from Mr. Darcy is when he finally comes for his Elizabeth:

"If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes have not changed, but one word from you will silence me forever. If, however, your feelings had changed, I will have to tell you, you have bewitched me body and soul and I love...I love... I love you. I never wish to be parted from you from this day on."

And then there is our delicious vampire Edward and his one true love Bella, for whom he has waited for....for hundreds of years! Another wowza here..........

Dish Rack Holder

2012-02-07T14:42:00.003-07:00

I think this is a super cute idea and I love the red color!

Orange Chicken

2012-02-07T13:44:00.003-07:00

This past weekend my daughter Ivy made this delicious orange chicken and it was super yummy! We give it a "two thumbs up"..............

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2″ cubes

1/2 cup flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons oil or butter
1 1/2 cups water

1/4 cup plus

2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

1/3 cup rice vinegar

2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon orange zest

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon finely minced ginger

1 teaspoon minced garlic

2 tablespoons green onion

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 cup water

DIRECTIONS:Heat oven to 350. In a shallow dish combine the flour, garlic powder and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken in flour mixture and coat evenly.
Pour oil (or melt butter and pour) in a shallow baking dish, large enough to accommodate chicken in a single layer. Arrange chicken in pan and bake uncovered for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan combine water, fresh orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, orange zest and whisk over medium heat for a few minutes. Then stir in brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and green onion and let it come to a boil. Combine cornstarch with water and let it dissolve and add it to the sauce until thickened.
After chicken has baked the 30 minutes, turn each piece over and pour 1/2 sauce mixture evenly over chicken. Bake another 30 to 40 minutes basting frequently.
Serve chicken over rice with extra sauce on the side.

If you want to print out the recipe you can go here: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2008/07/fabulous-orange-chicken.html

Christmas in February

2012-02-07T12:32:00.003-07:00

I simply love it that the grandkidos wanted Chritstmas bedtime stories this past weekend and for all three nights! It's such a magical and happy time. ......... who wouldn't!

2012-02-07T12:30:00.001-07:00

L.O.V.E.

2012-02-03T05:58:00.005-07:00

" Love doesn't just sit there, like a stone, it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new."

So Fruity.......

2012-02-02T19:16:00.003-07:00

I think this is just too cute and delicious........My granbabies will love this!

That's Just Great

2012-02-02T11:05:00.002-07:00

The moral of the story is: Be careful what you wish for.....

There is to much snow for me to travel north this morning and it is just going to get worse throughout the day! I guess this "nana" will have to wait until tomorrow to hug them granbabies! :(

WHERE IS WINTER

2012-02-01T19:12:00.002-07:00

Please, Oh Pleeze..........Punxsutawney Phil give us 6 more weeks of winter! You see, all of your friends here in Zion have not seen winter and for this "zion girl" it is her favorite time of the year! So...............tomorrow, just do your thing! pretty pleeze.............

Vacation Hint #3

2012-02-01T14:48:00.002-07:00

Where in the heck is this "zion girl" going? Hmmm....is that the ocean?

But which one?

What? Huh? When?

2012-02-01T11:30:00.009-07:00

Did I tell you that? When did I say that?

When did you tell me that?

Seriously! It has been 3 weeks today since I have started taking the Ginkgo Biloba and I am here to tell you.........I can tell the difference! It is definitely worth taking. I do a crossword puzzle daily and I can do them now in nearly half the time as before!

Most Importantly, on Saturday I remembered to go by my favorite yogurt place and indulge myself! BEST DAY EVER........................

2012-01-31T20:50:00.005-07:00

Today has been just one of those special days! Thank you my father in heaven for my many many many blessings! How can one girl have so much happiness and joy.... AMEN.........

2012-01-31T05:57:00.000-07:00

I ♥ YOU

2012-01-30T11:06:00.002-07:00

I am so excited to make these with them adorable granbabies this coming weekend!

For the directions go here: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/01/chocolate-dipped-krispie-treats-heart-shaped.html

Faith And Courage

2012-01-30T07:43:00.002-07:00

"We move on with no regrets to our destiny, held by the hands of the Father. We share His love and He leads us through all these days..."

Outdoor Pallet Table

2012-01-28T17:23:00.005-07:00

Who knew there were so many things that you could do with wood pallets! This is the coolest table and all because of the "pinterest" website. That's all I need.......another website to get hooked on!

Go here for this project: http://www.joyeverafter.com/blog/2011/7/13/outdoor-pallet-table-diy.html

And then for other pallet projects follow this link: http://blog.builddirect.com/do-it-yourself-projects-using-pallets/

The Aircraft Flying Over Me As I Blog!

2012-01-27T21:40:00.011-07:00

B-1 Lancer

E-3 Sentry

F-15 Eagle

F-16 Fighting Falcon

KC-135 Stratotanker

The Mystery Is Solved

2012-01-27T17:24:00.003-07:00

AND SERIOUSLY........HOW COOL IS THIS!!!!

ST. GEORGE – Washington County residents have been experiencing loud booms and shaking homes since Monday and wondered what was happening – the U.S. Air Force has the answer.
Capt. Jessica Martin, a public relations officer for Nellis Air Force Base, confirmed that the base was taking part in Red Flag, a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies.

Red Flag began on Monday, Jan. 23, and will continue to Feb. 3. Until then, southern Utah residents may continue to experience incidents involving loud disturbances, and in some cases, shaken homes.

While the thunderous sounds and shaking created by exercise will cease in less than two weeks, Capt. Martin added that Red Flag is held up to four times a year.

The exercise is hosted north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range – the U.S. Air Force’s premier military training area with more than 12,000 square miles of airspace and 2.9 million acres of land. With 1,900 possible targets, realistic threat systems and an opposing enemy force that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world, Nellis and the NTTR are the home of a “peacetime battlefield,” providing combat air forces with the ability to train to fight together, survive together and win together.

The 414th Combat Training Squadron is responsible for executing Red Flag and the exercise is just one of a series of advanced training programs administered at Nellis and on the NTTR by organizations assigned to the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center.

Throughout the Red Flag exercise, more than 90 aircraft are scheduled to depart Nellis twice a day, around noon and again around 6 p.m. Aircraft may remain in the air for up to four hours. The flying times are scheduled to accommodate the other flying missions at Nellis and provide Red Flag participants with valuable training in planning and executing a wide-variety of combat missions.

The exercise will include units from Nevada, Colorado, South Dakota, Louisiana, Utah, California, Republic of Korea, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Massachusetts and Oklahoma flying aircraft including the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, E-3 Sentry, B-1 Lancer, and KC-135 Stratotanker.

In addition to U.S. aircraft, the Saudi Royal Air Force and the Republic of Korea will participate with their nations’ F-15 aircraft.
For more information about Red Flag, call the Nellis Public Affairs Office at (702) 652-2750 or go to http://www.nellis.af.mil/redflag-nellis/. \

Night Rumblings Continue

2012-01-27T08:58:00.007-07:00

Well....the night rumblings and window shakings continue. It's always around 9PM and now there are folks feeling and hearing this in Washington County and Iron County. It was so bad last night that my windows shook and now we are hearing "jets" so...........being the Sherlock Holmes that I am, I have done some investigating and with the help of locals and of course my friends on FB this is our logic.

Not far from us here in Zion is a place called Smith's Mesa or Monkey Mesa (the name monkey mesa is another story and includes monkeys riding on jet seats and being shot off of rockets). It is just outside the city limits of Virgin, Utah. Any moment now I expect the feds at my door....just kidding! This info is public knowledge and all over the internet. During my days as a home health nurse I had a patient that also divulged alot of information in his great stories when he was employed there! *******still waiting for the feds to come knocking! ha ha ha ha.

Back to our theory! There appears to be some sort of night training going on! Smith's Mesa is located between Hill Force Base and Nellis!.....Hmmm....you do the math!

The photo above is the airstrip or testing strip. I'm pretty sure this is the rocket testing strip. I have been up here years ago and this place is pretty secure with fencing and an electric eye at the gate and a HUGE sign that says you are being watched per the USAF......I love it!

This link really is the best that I have found that talks about the mesa and the history! Enjoy it.
http://www.airfields-freeman.com/UT/Airfields_UT_SW.htm

FAMILY

2012-01-26T19:31:00.002-07:00

For details on the how 2's visit here: http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2011/12/what-to-do-with-old-windows.html. I love the blogging world! It is so much fun to share all these super cute ideas.

Sleepless in Zion.....

2012-01-26T06:27:00.003-07:00

Well, it has been two nights in a row now that we have had loud rumbling noises here in the Canyon.

YES, for me it is very scary and I remain sleepless! It has to be rock slides... as in the past weekend we had nearly 48 hours worth of moisture! I plan to do some hiking this weekend and will investigate. At first I felt like I was only one of two locals who heard and felt it but it continued last night and now others are commenting.

We had a terrible earthquake back in 91 or 92 and I will try to hike up to the center of it ....this weekend as it is only about 2 miles from me.

Nothing like an adventure for this "zion girl"!

Button Button...........

2012-01-25T16:24:00.007-07:00

How cute is this idea! This would be adorable in any childs room!

Supplies needed:- Printer- Scissors- Cardstock- Pen or Pencil- Adhesive- Paper Piercer- Buttons and Brads, Frame without glass or shadowbox.

To create your monogram, begin by cutting cardstock large enough to fit in your frame. Next, you will need to print out a letter. Keep in mind that you want thick lines in order to fill them up with buttons and brads. Then cut out your letter and place in the center of your cardstock, tracing the lines onto the paper.
Start placing your large buttons and/or brads onto the cardstock, keeping them as lined up with the edges as possible. Since we’re using rounded Elements, you won’t be able to fill the corners, but we will fill them in with smaller brads and buttons later. Use the AC tape runner to put a little adhesive on the back, I wouldn’t use a liquid adhesive because you may need to rearrange some things as you go.

Once you’ve filled up a large portion of your monogram, it’s time to start doing the filler. For this, use smaller buttons and different size brads. Begin with the smaller buttons, then it’s time to start with your brads. You can use all different sizes of these, you just need a small spot to poke it through, and then it can overlap with the buttons which adds a lot more dimension. Pop them through with your hands, there’s not really enough space to use a hole punch, but a paper piercer would work fine as well.
Once you’ve covered your letter with Elements, place it in a frame.

Front Lawn Mystery

2012-01-25T13:25:00.004-07:00

A friend of mine who lives in Hollywood awoke to this on his front yard this morning! Is there such a thing as a potato curse? I thought it was hilarious and totally blog worthy!

Cake Batter Popcorn

2012-01-25T13:21:00.005-07:00

Cake Batter Popcorn
1 3 oz bag of microwave butter popcorn
1/2 cup of butter
1/2 cup of vanilla cake mix
1/2 cup of sugar
1/4 cup of light corn syrup
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extractColored Sprinkles

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Pop popcorn in the microwave according to package instructions- remove unopened kernels and pour into a large bowl
2. Grease a baking sheet, set aside
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the cake mix, sugar, corn syrup, and salt
4. Bring to a slow simmer, making sure not to boil (or burn the sugar) and stir constantly for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract
5. Pour mixture over popcorn in the bowl, stirring until all corn is coated
6. Spread popcorn evenly over baking sheet and place in the oven
7. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the popcorn has turned brown. It will harden more as it cools
8. Remove from oven and top with sprinkles
9. Let cool and then store in an airtight container

I Love Salad

2012-01-25T10:28:00.005-07:00

I love Salad! Seriously, I can eat salad almost everyday but I am constantly looking for new ways to prepare a salad and this looks super yummy.

Autumn Chopped Salad

Ingredients*

6 to 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce

*2 medium pears, chopped

*1 cup dried cranberries

*1 cup chopped pecans

*8 slices thick-cut bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbled

*4 to 6 oz. feta cheese, crumbled

*Poppy seed Salad Dressing (I like T. Marzetti)

*Balsamic Vinaigrette (I like Newman's Own Light Balsamic Vinaigrette)

Instructions

*On a large platter, combine the lettuce, pears, cranberries, pecans, bacon and feta cheese. Drizzle generously with poppy seed dressing, followed by some of the balsamic vinaigrette. (I would estimate that I used about a cup of dressing: 70 percent poppy seed dressing and 30 percent balsamic vinaigrette) If you prefer your salad to have more dressing, feel free to experiment with the combination.

Happy Cooking!

Vacation Hint Photo #2

2012-01-24T19:17:00.002-07:00

Oooooohhhhh........Where is this Zion Girl going?

Valentine's Candlestick Holders

2012-01-24T11:05:00.012-07:00

How cute are these candlestick holders with matching candles?

Simply purchase candles in all different Valentine colors, from Dark red to pink. Then spray paint your candle holders to match and display them dark to light for a trendy hombre effect.

2012-01-24T10:13:00.008-07:00

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Try everything twice. On one woman's tombstone she said she wanted this epitaph: "Tried everything twice. Loved it both times!"

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.(Keep this in mind if you are one of those grouches!)

3. Keep learning:Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever...Never let the brain get idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.' And the devil's name is Alzheimer's!

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh,spend lots and lots of time with HIM/HER.

6. The tears happen: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. LIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love: whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, jewelry, shoes, purses, whatever..Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health:If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips..Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.I love you, my special friend!

11. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second chance..Remember! Lost time can never be found.Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

~borrowed from my blogging mate, Sylvia at Over the Hill ~

It's Snowing It's Snowing!

2012-01-23T11:01:00.009-07:00

Finally today January 23rd and we are seeing our first Zion Snow! It is beautiful and magical!

This was taken during our big storm on Saturday! You can tell how hard the wind is blowing by the tree tops!

This was the snow on my mountain Saturday morning.

Brownie Heart Cupcake

2012-01-23T07:15:00.001-07:00

Ingredients:

Vegetable oil, cooking spray
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt
3 sticks unsalted butter, cut into pieces
12 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
3 cups sugar
6 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners. Coat an 8-inch square cake pan with cooking spray, line bottom with parchment, then spray parchment.
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Place butter and chocolate in a heatproof mixer bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring until chocolate melts.
Attach bowl to mixer, add sugar, and whisk on medium-high speed until smooth, about 3 minutes. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time, then vanilla. Reduce speed to low, and add flour mixture.
Divide batter among muffin cups, filling each 2/3 full. Spread remaining batter in square pan. Bake until set but still soft, about 18 minutes. Let cool in tins and pan on wire racks.
Frost cupcakes with buttercream. Cut out 24 hearts from brownie in pan using a 1 1/2-inch heart-shaped cutter. Top each cupcake with a heart.

Basic Buttercream frosting:

Ingredients
12 ounces (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 pound confectioners' sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions
Beat butter with a mixer on medium-high speed until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Reduce speed to medium. Add sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating after each addition, about 5 minutes. (After every 2 additions, increase speed to high, and beat for 10 seconds, then reduce speed to medium-high). Add vanilla, and beat until buttercream is smooth. Use immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. (Bring to room temperature, and beat on low speed until smooth before using.)

Ooh La La

2012-01-23T06:25:00.003-07:00

This store has my name written all over it and I am definitely visiting here on my vacation!

2012-01-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

Balance

2012-01-21T21:13:00.016-07:00

So, I just finished watching this movie and I have to say it does give you some messages to ponder. I guess the message I am taking away from this is about how important it is to have your life in balance. I can honestly say that I feel my life is balanced and only because I work hard at it every day. I only wish there were more hours in the day to do all the things that I want to do! We can always hope, wish and want .........but until we make up our minds to just do it........well............you will always live in limbo and continue to live on should of's, could of's and maybe's.

I am happy that I have figured out the important things.......you know..........the things that matter most, that I must care for and nurture on a daily basis. It is hard work and it takes some planning but the rewards make it all worth it! It's really what keeps us going isn't it?

The only regret I have is that it took me so long to figure it all out.
I try to never look back with the exception of pondering the lesson's I've learned!

Valentine's Tree

2012-01-21T16:26:00.004-07:00

To create a Valentine's Day tree, make little felt hearts adorned with different embellishments and hang them from twig lights. Super cute idea and if you miss the warmth of the Christmas holiday lights ..... well, this is sure to fill the void!

Hand Written Love Lines

2012-01-21T15:50:00.002-07:00

Super Cute Family Night Activity!

Send a touching message with valentines traced from little hands. Just cut from construction paper, and then decorate. You can hand over sweets or a toy ring, or let someone know he's your hands-down favorite. Let your imagination wander............

Heart-Shaped Pot Holders

2012-01-21T15:38:00.003-07:00

How cute are these and what a sweet gift to give for Valentines. I love collecting pot holders and when I travel I love to pick up unique ones for my own daughters. I know those of us who sew always have lots of left over fabric laying around and really you could make these for any holiday.

I shopped today at Joann's Fabric and I was so delighted to find the flannel on sale for 50% off. I have lots of blankets and burp cloths to make and our own sweet Lit'l Becky is have a baby girl in March and I found the perfect fabric today ♥

For the directions please visit here: http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/heart-shaped-pot-holders?czone=holiday/valentine-center/valentine-cnt-gifts&center=276967&gallery=274866&slide=279927

Where In The World Is This Zion Girl Going?

2012-01-20T09:47:00.007-07:00

Here is the first hint of my trip that is coming up next month. Can you guess where I might be headed?

LOVE

2012-01-20T09:35:00.002-07:00

How cute is this door hanger? This is from Amber over at sewtotallysmitten. If you would like to make this you can visit here and see her cute step by step super easy directions.

http://sewtotallysmitten.blogspot.com/2011/01/love-door-hanger.html

I Read I Read...

2012-01-20T09:06:00.001-07:00

Robert Pattinson Quote : "If you find a girl who reads, keep her close. When you find her up at 2 AM clutching a book to her chest and weeping, make her a cup of tea and hold her. You may lose her for a couple of hours but she will always come back to you. She’ll talk as if the characters in the book are real, because for a while, they always are. Date a girl who reads because you deserve it. You deserve a girl who can give you the most colorful life imaginable. If you can only give her monotony, and stale hours and half-baked proposals, then you’re better off alone. If you want the world and the worlds beyond it, date a girl who reads." ♥♥♥

My Zion Sky

2012-01-19T17:57:00.003-07:00

I just ran out the door to capture this beautiful Zion Sky! I truly live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. I do believe this sky fortells the rain that is forecast to come in the next couple of days! Snow would even be better.................(giggles)

A Proper Thank You

2012-01-19T09:04:00.008-07:00

I have been pondering this topic for quite sometime now and I have been thinking about why I didn't receive "Thank You" notes for the many wedding/shower gifts that I have sent this past year. I would like to think that this isn't our younger generation not caring .....but that just maybe they have not been taught the importance of the "Thank You Note"!

I have to say that I know that I have alot of blog readers and maybe we can just pass this information along in hopes that this expression of gratitude is not a lost or forgotten form of appreciation. I hope I am not offending anyone either....you might say.....well, just stop sending gifts! I have a special love for these youth and I enjoy spending time picking out that special gift just for them. So.........not giving gifts is not an option for me, I would just like a thank you!

My girls have Always sent thank you cards for these above gifts! Maybe we are just old school but I have to say that I am hurt that I didn't receive a thank you from these past gifts that I have sent. Also, It makes you question the fact that "did they even receive my gift"?

Bottom line here...........It is still proper etiquette to send a thank you note. It really doesn't even matter to me that it is a year or so later. I would like to know that you have acknowledged my kind gesture and that you are thankful.

Writing a thank you note seems like a simple enough task, but there are a few etiquette rules to remember. Thank you notes are written to express gratitude for any gift you receive. They let the giver feel appreciated and they're likely to remember your gratitude in the future.

Look Up

2012-01-18T18:05:00.003-07:00

A challenge for all of us is not to look sideways to see how others are viewing our lives, but to look up to see how Heavenly Father sees us.

Home Made Pop Tarts

2012-01-18T13:13:00.006-07:00

There are just some things you remember as a child! I can still remember where I was when President John F. Kennedy was shot...........I can still see my desk at school and I can close my eyes and see everything in that 3rd grade classroom.

Some things are just that "BIG". Certain things you never forget! Ok........so getting to my point here. I can still remember my very first magical frosted pop tart encounter!

I was at my girlfriend, Shelly Cox's house and besides her having the coolest bedroom and in the coolest house ever........SHE HAD POP TARTS! And I am not talking about "a" box............When she opened her kitchen cupboard there were boxes and boxes. I am still in awe of this some forty five years later. The year was 1967 that the first frosted pop tart "popped" into our lives.

On a local Utah noon TV show today (Studio 5) they had a segment on how to make home made ones. Here is the link for the actual video if you are interested: http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=204&sid=18918113.

After doing a little research...........I see they are everywhere.

Yes, Wikipedia...........I needed you today!

Red Velvet Cupcakes

2012-01-18T05:56:00.008-07:00

Well.........it's here! The holiday of love! The colors of red, pink and white are everywhere! There is just something soooo wrong about seeing Valentines goodies next to the lonely and sad shopping carts filled with all of the Christmas sale items. Oh well.........It is what it is!

So .......moving on! How cute are these Red Velvet Cupcakes?

Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe:

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 Tablespoon cocoa
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 eggs
1 cup oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 Tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-2 oz. red food coloring

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line trays with cupcake papers.
Lightly stir eggs in a medium bowl with a wire whisk. Add remaining liquid ingredients and stir together with whisk until blended. Set aside.

Place all the dry ingredients in your mixing bowl and stir together with another wire whisk.
Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix on medium-high for about a minute or until completely combined.

Pour into cupcake pans and drop the pans on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
Bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Makes 24 cupcakes

Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 cups confectioners’ sugar

Sift sugar and set aside.
Beat cream cheese and butter on high until creamy. Add vanilla.
Then, add the sugar in batches. Scrape down the sides in between each addition.
And frost away.

I LOVE these little miniature heart sprinkles♥

You can turn them into bleeding heart cupcakes, too. So easy!

XOXOXOXOXOXO

XOXOXO

2012-01-18T04:33:00.008-07:00

One of my most favorite things to make for my sweet granbabies are holiday pillowcases. I have been making these for years and even when my girls were little I made them for every holiday. They are just so darn easy and the kids love them. I can spend a whole day and just sit and sew as I sit looking out the window.... and it would have been the perfect day if it would have been snowing! (weather update here in Zion Canyon........no snow yet!)

These special ones are for my little Wynter Brooke, as she loves........Hello Kitty! I think she will be so excited to get them in the mail from her Nana. She has the cutest facial expressions in all of her recent family photos. She is adorable and we love her so much!

Thank you, Father in heaven for "My Family"

Shoe Trees...........What?

2012-01-17T07:11:00.021-07:00

I have been driving past this tree for a couple of years now and I kept telling myself that one of theses days I was going to pull over and snap a few photos of this crazy "shoe tree"! I'm trying to think when it first appeared. .... I'm guessing just about that length of time. When I first noticed it, it had a longer tree arm that was recently cut down with tons of shoes on it. It remained somewhat sad and shoeless for about three months and then it took off again.

This particular tree is located just a few miles east of Virgin, Utah near the Ostrich Ranch.

and............how funny was that sentence?

I was certainly surprised after I did some research this week on the internet!

Shoe Trees may be the greatest embodiment of the American Spirit you can find on the highway (free of admission charge, anyway).

A shoe tree starts with one dreamer, tossing his or her footwear-of-old high into the sky, to catch on an out-of-reach branch. It usually ends there, unseen and neglected by others. But on rare occasions, that first pair of shoes triggers a shoe tossing cascade. Soon, teens are gathering up their old Adidas and Sauconys, families are driving out after church with Dad's Reeboks and grandma's Keds. Many inscribe messages on the sneakers in permanent marker -- greetings, love poems and life accomplishments.

No way I was looking in this zip lock baggie.............Ewe!

The shoe tree blooms with polymer beauty. A work of art like this may last for generations, tracing our history by our sneakers . . . as long as the tree doesn't die or get attacked by shoe tree murderers.

Some might consider this art, while others consider it a form of littering! Either way...........I thought it was totally "blog worthy"!

Pottery Barn

2012-01-16T16:44:00.005-07:00

Well now I have gone and done it! It was just to much! The suspense was killing me!

In my last post I talked about the toooooo cute Valentines Blocks that I fell in love with on Pottery Barn, so today I happen to wander over to their website to check out all of their super cute and super un-affordable treasures. The one thing I do know is that It gives me super cute ideas of my own. My little grangirlie Wynter has all new bedding and their are lots of fun birds and owls on it.

Seriously, how easy would these be to make!

There is nothing quite like homemade!

It comes from the heart ♥

Nana's Need Toys Too...

2012-01-15T16:14:00.010-07:00

I am so excited about my recent purchase on Ebay! I have seven wonderful and adorable granbabies and it's important that I have some really cool stuff here for them to play with when they come to visit. So.....I have been looking for stacking blocks for a few weeks now.

I really haven't seen them in years but I do remember that when my girls were little we had a set of Winnie The Pooh ones. So.........I put in an offer yesterday for these two sets and she accepted it. They are in super great shape and look somewhat vintage........a little like me!

(giggles).........

Ten dollars........Seriously! I am so excited to be the proud new owner! Thank you Ebay!

These adorable Valentine ones were really what I wanted! I fell instantly into love! But get this, there are three sets up for auction and they start at $50.00! Could it be because they are made by Pottery Barn? If you know about Pottery Barn then you know they are EXPENSIVE! Super cute stuff, but really...........they are cardboard boxes!

Stir It Up

2012-01-15T15:58:00.006-07:00

Oh My Gosh......I just made the best Shrimp Tai Peanut Stir Fry! When I was in town on Friday I went by Costco and picked up some cooked frozen shrimp with the tail off and a big bag or their frozen stir fry vegetables. Some of you probably can't even imagine leaving Costco with only two items but....thats me! I have little space and it's just me and besides I take a list and I am not easily swayed by all the goodies. I did forget however that it was free food day, you know.....tons of free samples everywhere. People and carts everywhere! It was fun and I even ran into an old friend.

Back to the stir fry........I had bought some brown rice earlier that day and had decided to make the change. I have been hearing about how much better it is for you so...I made some up earlier today and then mixed it into the stir fry! It was super yummy! The Tai Peanut sauce is made by Sun Luck and it called for 1/4 cup....but after I gave it the ole taste test it just wasn't enough flavor for this "zion girl", so I added about another 1/4 cup. I even made enough to take to work tomorrow.

I love trying new recipes......Ok....this is a stir fry for heavens sake and it was all frozen with the exception of the brown rice! So, let me rephrase that. I love a super quick delicious thrown together stir fry!

"Wee Blocks" by Lori

2012-01-14T08:59:00.008-07:00

My blogging friend Lori is amazing! I admire her sooooo much. She has an amazing blog and she posts some of her most wonderful and treasured photos ever! She is such an inspiration to me and besides she has been to Africa! I am so jealous! For most of you who know me.....know that visiting Africa is my life long dream ever since my Mackenzie visited there for three months.

Now.......about these adorable blocks! It has given me such a cute idea for my own granbabies! I guess now I will have to learn to paint.... or my thought is that I will make these into family member photo blocks and some of them will be of olden dayz. You know, genealogy blocks! Family members that passed years ago that they didn't even get a chance to know. It will be fun to discuss stories of these ancestors while playing. Oh, I am so excited! Now to find the blocks! I have just looked on Ebay but they are pretty pricey! Another project! I love it!

Thank you Lori for the inspiration!

To visit Lori you can go here: http://loritimesfive.blogspot.com/

Oatmeal Coconut Chewies

2012-01-13T17:47:00.016-07:00

My daughter Ivy made these delicious little cookies today and then she text me right away to tell me how absolutely yummy they are. It's so sad that I am three hours away!!! Thanks alot Ivy! It's ok though as I am still sugar detoxing from the holidays! She uses alot of recipes from Mels Kitchen Cafe and all of them so far have been great!

These cookies are buttery, soft, chewy, filled with coconut and oatmeal…and that all adds up to being some of the best cookies ever. Plus, the baked cookies freeze wonderfully. Not that they’ll make it that far.

*Note: A couple of the times I have made these, I have substituted white wheat flour for the all-purpose and they turned out delicious!

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened to cool room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups flour
1 cup shredded, sweetened coconut
1 cup quick oats

DIRECTIONS:Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl cream together the sugar, eggs, butter and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a greased or lined (silpat or parchment) baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 9-11 minutes, until the cookies are set but not overly browned (bake a few minutes longer for a crispier version).

To visit Mels go here: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/

Being You

2012-01-13T06:21:00.001-07:00

Today you are YOU, that is truer than true.
There is no one ALIVE who is Youer than YOU. ♥ Dr. Seuss

Hello Kitty..........

2012-01-12T19:22:00.008-07:00

Seriously, how cute are these Hello Kitty Cupcakes? My grangirlie Wynter loves anything Hello Kitty, so I plan to make these and take them with me when I go to visit. It's funny how things come around again and become popular. It's a rebirth of sorts! When my girls were little Hello Kitty had just come onto the scene and now she's back!

Here are the specifics: http://annies-eats.com/2010/09/24/hello-kitty-cupcakes/

Arctic Oscillation

2012-01-12T14:10:00.010-07:00

Arctic Oscillation! What.............This is the term I heard on the news yesterday for all of the crazy weather throughout the US. I can honestly say I have never ever heard this before! This is why we here in Zion National Park are not getting our usual snowfall. And........unfortunately the folks in Cordova, Alaska are getting dumped on!

I tried to google and yahoo the definition so I could understand it better in "zion girl" terms, but really? My favorite go to is Wikipedia and I couldn't even understand the first two sentences here. What the heck is Arctic Oscillation?

Here is a great explanation and oh.........the above photo is that of the record snowfall they are continuing to get in Cordova.

Arctic Oscillation..........ok, now I just like saying my new found term!

Definition that a "zion girl" can understand:

The record snowfall is the result of two atmospheric patterns "that are conspiring to send an unending series of storms into Alaska," said Jeff Masters, a meteorologist who runs Weather Underground, a meteorology service that tracks strange and extreme weather.
For the second winter in a row, the Pacific weather phenomenon known as La Nina is affecting the weather. But instead of plentiful snow in the Lower 48, Alaska is getting slammed because of the second weather pattern.

That's called the Arctic Oscillation and it has been strong this year, changing air patterns to the south and keeping the coldest winter air locked up in the Arctic.

I'm still not quite sure what this means for us here in Zion National Park yet, but.......I am still hoping and praying that we will still see some snow ! I have new snow boots for heaven's sake!

And thank you Jeff Masters at Weather Underground!

Feeling Guilty Now!

2012-01-11T11:33:00.009-07:00

How many of us would really admit to the taking of a magazine from the Dr's. office? How many of us tear out a recipe very quietly from the magazine? Well, on Monday I took a friend into the Dr. for some early morning surgery and WOW...........talk about a great selection of magazines.

I have to come clean that I did take a December issue of Martha Stewart with the intention that I would send it back with my friend when she goes in for her 2 week follow up appointment.

I have to say that after I got it home and thought about it.........Is this stealing? Is this alright if you intend to take it back? Will I have her just nonchalantly sneek it back in or just go lay it on the table? What? How crazy is this?

So, the question is: Is it wrong to take a magazine or tear out recipes from the Dr.'s office magazines? I had also thought about asking the receptionist to copy a recipe for me. Reading some internet comments tells me this is a BIG NO NO!

They are old! Sometimes several months, which means I can't find a copy on the magazine rack and it's time for the office manager to get rid of them. I figure I am 1.) saving the office manager/receptionist a trip to the trash can, and 2.) recycling. The environment? Come on, guys.

I have done some research (time on my hands) online and here are some interesting thoughts and comments!

Jill says: So I worked for a Dr. for years and I must admit it's where my pet peeve stems from. Although it was worse when people would come up to the desk and ask us to make some copies out of what they were reading... its then I wished they'd have just hid it in their purse. It was only when the new ones were taken that it really bothered me. I am just selfish and wanted to enjoy them myself during lunch.So in conclusion... Taking new, no. Taking older, no problem, they just get thrown away. O' and don't make Dr's office staff make copies of articles. That's just my opinion.

Tisha says: Okay, I have never taken an entire magazine, but I have carefully torn out pages with recipes or fun ideas. Besides when it's fall and you are reading the valentines issue of Family Fun does it really matter?

Chrissie says: The official opinion of a receptionist, if they are old it is probably fine. Just ask. I have torn out pages before, and I have seen other people do it too! They look around to see if anyone noticed the load tearing noises. Pretty funny.

Julia says: You are too funny!! Sinner, haha. Yeah you are pretty much going to ****

Rebecka says: You thief! You do know that you can go to your local library and rent out as many magazines, new and old, as your heart desires...Try that next time.

Something to think about huh? And I guess on Friday when I go to town I will be swinging by this office and making a wrong.........a right!

Snow Hoarders

2012-01-10T06:22:00.007-07:00

Please Alaska.... Stop Hoarding All The Snow!

I just cannot take it anymore! It is January 10th here and we have not seen one single snowflake and I am just done waiting on Winter! DONE..........I tell you! DONE!

This is the craziest winter ever for us here in Zion. 65 degrees in January! What the heck is going on? I have never seen this here! It was horrible not seeing any snow covered Christmas lights on my outdoor patio. So, by now you may be wondering where this post is going?

I have decided that I will continue to play my Christmas music until the first snowflake arrives! Yep, call me crazy!......Plus it just didn't seem like Christmas this year without snow. Or.... this could just be another reason for me to hang onto to my favorite time of year a little longer! Or ....this could just be plain crazy talk from lack of sleep! Try to enjoy the "festive tunes" for just a little longer and please, Alaska send some snow to Utah!

Does A Full Moon Affect Your Sleep?

2012-01-10T04:35:00.004-07:00

Does the Moon Affect How You Sleep?

When there's a full moon are you more restless, finding it difficult to sleep well? If you answered yes, you're not alone. But it's just not true. (I beg to differ)............

Even though popular belief has long held that a full moon interferes with a good night's sleep, Austrian scientists have shown that sleep patterns are not affected by the phases of the moon.

Without fail, when the moon is full, one can look on Facebook, Twitter or any other social media site - or message board - and find mom after mom, dad after dad, complaining that their children are having trouble sleeping. Either they are waking up with nightmares or are so wired that they are wide awake and unable to sleep. They aren't alone. Many adults have trouble too.

Hence.............my blogging at this hour! I woke up suddenly at 1:30 and could not go back to sleep. I really didn't even think about the full moon thing until I glanced outside at around 4AM and saw the large glaring moon staring back at me. It certainly does makes a person wonder.

Full moons are traditionally associated with temporal insomnia, insanity (hence the terms lunacy and lunatic) and various "magical phenomena." How comforting! I do remember many years ago when I was a young nursing student spending time in a mental health hospital and how bizarre things would become on full moons!

I did manage to watch and old movie on Turner Classics that I had not seen before. 80,000 Suspects! I had never even heard of this little jewel and I love old movies! It's a 1963 British film and a romantic melodrama set against the backdrop of a smallpox epidemic which features Richard Johnson as the diligent doctor in control and Claire Bloom as his outwardly serene and devoted wife. And who doesn't love Claire Bloom?

Blessing Day

2012-01-09T18:43:00.004-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day for our family! Baby River was given a beautiful blessing by her father at their LDS church ward in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was such a wonderful day and so full of family and friends. We had a lovly brunch afterwards where we all got to visit and catch up.

The term "blessings" is used in two different ways in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In a broad traditional sense as used in many cultures, the word applies to all good things that come in a person's life-the wonders of nature, the joys of family, the benefits of liberty and education-anything and everything that enriches life. Such blessings are often pointed to as a manifestation of God's love for his children. Latter-day Saint writings are interspersed with this usage. In more specific terminology, blessings refer to ordinances performed under priesthood authority.

BLESSING OF CHILDREN. When babies are just a few weeks old, they are usually given a priesthood blessing for the special purpose of conferring a name by which the baby will be known and bestowing promises based on spiritual impressions regarding the baby's future life. If a baby's father is a worthy holder of the Priesthood, he will usually pronounce the blessing, but it may be given by a grandfather, a family friend, or any other qualified priesthood holder chosen by the baby's parents. Babies are usually blessed in the presence of the congregation at a fast and testimony meeting. However, the blessing may be given at other times and places, such as in a hospital or home, if there is a special need.

Loss.....

2012-01-06T07:19:00.015-07:00

On December 30th my close and long time friend Bradley passed away unexpectedly. We have been friends for over thirty some years. One of my greatest memories is that when we were younger.... we could sure fire up the dance floor with our country swing dancing. No one had more zest for life than Bradley! He will be missed by so many of us and there is no doubt.... that no one loved and lived life more than Bradley!

I will cherish my memories of his contagious laughter and silly smiles all of my days. There will be an open house celebration of his life with family and friends at the local Bit and Spur on January 14th starting at 3PM. For information please visit here: http://myroadtozion.com/2012/01/06/obituary-and-memorial-service-for-james-bradley-meinert/.

Until we meet again my friend......I love you!

So Sad To See It Go.......

2012-01-04T19:15:00.008-07:00

I hate taking the Christmas tree down.I totally miss the lights and warm atmosphere it creates. My rooms are filled with Christmas flowers and cute statues..lite scenery and pretty angels. When we turn off the lights, the spirit of Christmas glows thru our choice of decorations..old things & new additions.

There's always next year. That's what so special..it only comes once a year and I wait like a child.

I love Christmas.

New Years Photo Shoot

2012-01-03T18:03:00.013-07:00

While Joe, Mackenzie, Wynter and baby River were here this past weekend they took advantage of the beautiful weather and took some amazing family pictures. Joe had scouted out some perfect locations and off we went on Saturday to catch some awesome "vogue" poses.

New Year's Eve Blessings!

2012-01-02T10:18:00.010-07:00

What a wonderful way to start "2012" with all of my children and grandchildren here! I am so grateful for the love and support we all have for each other as a family and most of all, as friends!

This is the second year that we had a wonderful Fireworks display here in Zion Canyon. The city was full............standing room only at the restaurants.

Happy 2012!

Getting Ready For Santa's Arrival

2011-12-29T20:03:00.015-07:00

It's Christmas Eve and time to get the cookies and carrots ready for Santa and the Reindeer! Oh, look my Nana has brought us a special Santa plate. And.......I am so cute here!

Wynter is picking out the special sugar cookies that she and her Grandma Cindy made. She is getting a little help from her baby sister River and of course mommy and daddy.

Christmas morning! Wow.....did Santa's sleigh tipover?

Santa and his reindeer were very hungry! Too Cute........I see one small carrot and a few crumbs leftover!

Wynter is just in "awe" of the missing cookies and carrots!

Really Nana? Come see.......

She loves flamingos and so of course her Nana got her one!

Wynter and Grandma Great playing store.

She loves her new camera!

Same Ole...Same Ole...

2011-12-29T08:30:00.006-07:00

Are you sick of making the same resolutions year after year and yet you never keep them?

Here are some resolutions that you can actually accomplish!
Enjoy! :-)

10. Read less.
9. I want to gain weight. Put on at least 30 pounds.
8. Stop exercising. What a waste of time.
7. Watch more TV. I've been missing some good stuff.
6. Procrastinate more.
5. Drink more soda pop...cause your kidneys filter it so easily! (not)
4. Start being superstitious.
3. Spend more time at work.
2. Stop bringing lunch from home: I should eat out more.
1. Play around on Facebook more! Get addicted to Farmville!

Feast and Family

2011-12-29T05:58:00.008-07:00

On Christmas Eve Day we were invited over to Barry and Cindy's for a fabulous dinner! Of course I gorged myself on mashed potatoes, gravy and dressing! I am still dreaming of another plate full! I am so glad we took this four generation photo. My Mackenzie is so blessed to have two moms that love her so much! So this would be Cindy and her mom Pauline and then me and my mom. Thank you again Cindy for the invite! We love you bunches and tons.

Long Live The Spirit of Christmas!

2011-12-28T06:16:00.004-07:00

Repurposed pumpkin idea for next year!

Next year! What? How can that be?

Where did the time go?

Are you already thinking about packing up your Christmas decorations? I am not quite ready to tackle that project just yet. I have company coming for the New Year! However, I have been thinking about a few things…Keeping the Spirit of Christmas with me through the year…Long live Christmas!

I have been thinking about how much I love this time of year and what it would be like to keep Christmas close at hand every day of the year.

What might that look like?

Long Live the Spirit of Christmas!

Christmas lights up on the house for the 4th of July…Christmas decorations sitting dusty in every room of the house…and jingle bells playing on the radio at Halloween. I guess there are people who love the Christmas Holiday so much they would consider embracing these ideas. But I think NOT!

However, what I am thinking about is the Spirit of Christmas…the Spirit of love and laughter, the Spirit of giving…the Spirit of Peace on Earth and goodwill toward mankind.

Christmas Eve Day

2011-12-27T19:30:00.017-07:00

My sweet daughter Mackenzie is trying to start some holiday traditions for her little family. Wynter is now 2yrs. old and loves Santa and Frosty. She loves singing the Frosty the Snowman song. She doesn't really connect Santa bringing presents yet but is well aware of who "Santa" is!

So mom and I picked up some craft supplies at Michaels and we decided to make snowmen. It was a super fun time with the holiday music playing in the background.

Baby River wanted to just hang out with Grandma Great.

Joe got crazy with his snowman.......Very high tech for paper and foamies!

Chocolate Pinwheels

2011-12-27T12:42:00.003-07:00

Keep a box of buttery pinwheels in your freezer for that time when you really need them.

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/4 cups butter or margarine, softened
1 egg
3 cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Betty Crocker® chocolate candy sprinkles, if desired

In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter and egg with electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with spoon. Stir in flour and salt. Divide dough in half. Stir cocoa into one half. Stir chocolate sprinkles into other half. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.

Roll half of plain dough into 9x8-inch rectangle on lightly floured surface. Repeat with half of chocolate dough; place on plain dough. Roll doughs up together tightly, beginning at long side. Repeat with remaining plain and chocolate doughs. Wrap and refrigerate at least 8 hours but no longer than 24 hours.

Heat oven to 400ºF. Cut rolls into 1/4-inch slices. Place slices about 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.
Makes About 4 dozen cookies

Being Together For The Holidays

2011-12-26T08:13:00.020-07:00

Ethel M Chocolates’ Holiday Cactus Garden

For the 18th consecutive year, Southern Nevada residents and visitors from around the world will celebrate this holiday season by strolling through a chocolate wonderland with the official public opening on November 15 of Ethel M Chocolates’ Annual Holiday Cactus Garden. This super fun event goes until January 1st.

So... Friday night we bundled up and headed to the Ethel M. Factory. It was amazing and so much fun and let me say there were zillions of people there! At times we were just elbow to elbow. Needless to say......we really had to keep our eye on Wynter. We even ran into relatives and got to catch up and of course we had the $5.00 cup of hot chocolate! What???? It was totally worth it.

Nana Brooke and her adorable Wynter Brooke!

Mommy and daughter........

Super cute penguins... There must have been over 30 to 40 of these cute blow ups placed throughout the gardens. Santa was there of course, and then there was beautiful holiday music being played throughout the venue.

Joe, Kenzie, Wynter and my mama, Claire.

Wynter is so cute.....She loves calling her Grandma great!
OOPS....Baby River is here too..you just can't see the stroller!

Merry Christmas To All

2011-12-22T15:44:00.004-07:00

My Christmas wish is for everyone to have a safe and happy holiday!

My Newest Addition

2011-12-22T15:23:00.004-07:00

Oh MY Heck! I am crazy for Christmas music and yes.........I start playing it in August!

I know, your saying "she is one of those people".

It makes me happy!

I have a collection of over 40 holiday CD's.

I saw this one at Walgren's the other day and grabbed it for $9.99 and let me just say this!

Been playing it in the vehicle ever since.

LOVE IT..........

The Wise Men Come

2011-12-22T10:08:00.012-07:00

Matthew 2:1
Now when Jesus as born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men fom the east of Jerusalem...

2. Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews, for we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him....

3. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

4. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

5. And they said unto him, it is written by the prophets, that he should be born in bethlehem of Judaea, for thus have they said.

7. Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.

8. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also [ Herod is lying and he secretly wants to kill the child.]

9. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

10. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.

11. And when they came into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him. They presented unto him the gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh. These costly gifts helped pay expenses for the trip to Egypt.

12. Being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

13. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

14. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.
[this would be a long and difficult journey, of about 200-300 miles, depending on where they stayed in Egypt, but Joseph and Mary were obedient].

15. And was there until the death of Herod.

By the time the wise men arrived in Jerusalem, enquiring about the birth of Christ, Jesus was already a young child. Joseph and Mary had apparently decided to stay in Bethlehem for awhile, after the Savior's birth, and had settled in a house there. You can see that this implied in verse ll, which informs us that He was now living in a house in Bethlehem. Thus, the pictures we see of the wise men and shepherds visiting baby Jesus in a stable are a composite of two separate events.

A Mother's Love

2011-12-22T09:30:00.005-07:00

It is hard to imagine the flood of tender feelings which must have been in Mary's heart, as she looked at her newborn baby, realizing that this was the Son of God, the Promised Messiah, the Savior of the world. Yet, for the moment, it was her tiny, helpless baby boy, to hold and snuggle, to comfort and take care of, for her and Joseph to rear.

The Annunciation to The Shepherds

2011-12-22T07:23:00.012-07:00

Luke 2: 8-20

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them,and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Sponge Candy....What?

2011-12-21T14:19:00.011-07:00

This is my friend Jeri and her hubby Billie. She and I grew up together back in southeastern Iowa and we even share the same birthday. In the fall of 1976 she and I left Iowa and headed for the big time......Vegas! We loaded up her little blue pinto with all of our most important treasures and keepsakes....our bell bottom pants, platform shoes and our record albums. (giggles)...............

She makes the most wonderful sponge candy and I have asked her if I could share her recipe.

I haven't had sponge candy since I was just a wee one. My grandma Opal always had it around her house at the holidays and I remember her buying it, by the pound at the little local store called Helen's Variety. You could buy anything there and you could wander around both floors for hours.

The other memory I have of sponge candy is that at Christmas at the Methodist Church when Santa would give us our little brown paper bag...........it had one orange, ribbon candy, peanuts, a few gum drops and of course just a couple of pieces of sponge candy. What a warm and fuzzy memory for me.

What is Sponge Candy?
Sponge Candy is a succulent piece of candy with an inside that tastes somewhat like molasses and caramelized sugar. It’s texture is very unusual in that it is crisp at first and then melts away in your mouth. And of course, don’t forget the creamy blanket of milk chocolate or dark chocolate that covers that tasty inside.

Here is Jeri's recipe:

1 cup dark Karo Syrup.
1 cup sugar.
Mix and bring to hard crack stage (350). Pour 4 teaspoons baking soda all at once into mixture. Stir quickly then pour onto cookie sheet. DO NOT TOUCH AFTER YOU POUR ONTO THE COOKIE SHEET.
Let cool then break into pieces and dip into melted almond bark. Make sure you start in a big enough pan, once you put the baking soda in it expands.

Lighter General Tso"s Chicken

2011-12-21T12:13:00.005-07:00

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups long-grain brown rice
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 pound snow peas, trimmed and halved crosswise
4 garlic cloves, sliced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated and peeled
3 tablespoons light-brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
2 large egg whites
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, such as safflower

Directions:
Cook rice according to package instructions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1/2 cup cold water until smooth. Add snow peas, garlic, ginger, sugar, soy sauce, and red-pepper flakes; toss to combine, and set aside.

In another bowl, whisk together egg whites, remaining 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add chicken, and toss to coat.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high. Lift half the chicken from egg-white mixture (shaking off excess), and add to skillet. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate; repeat with remaining oil and chicken, and set aside (reserve skillet).
Add snow-pea mixture to skillet. Cover; cook until snow peas are tender and sauce has thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Return chicken to skillet (with any juices); toss to coat. Serve with rice.

The Christmas Story

2011-12-20T16:39:00.009-07:00

Luke 2

This chapter is probably one of the most famous in the Bible. It has the "Christmas Story" about the birth of the Christ Child and shepherds who came in from the fields to see baby Jesus. It also contains the account of twelve-year-old Jesus teaching in the Temple.

1. And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world (everyone in the Roman Empire should be taxed).

2. [And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.]

3. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own town.

This was actually a process of registration or taking a census of all the people who were subject to the Roman government. Based on this census and registration, taxes were later assessed and then collected. The roman government allowed people to register in the towns where they currently lived, but Jewish custom required that the Jews go to their hometowns to register and be counted. Thus, Joseph and Mary had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem, a distance of some one hundred plus miles.

4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem [thus fulfilling the prophecy in Micah 5:2 that Christ would be born in Bethlehem]; (because he was of the house and lineage of David).

5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

Note: Mary was indeed "great with child", for the Savior was born while she and Joseph were in Bethlehem. It is highly likely that Mary was in labor during the long journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7. And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling cloth, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

"Swaddling clothes" were bands of cloth in which a newborn baby was wrapped. The baby was placed diagonally upon a square piece of cloth. The bottom corner of the square cloth was folded up to cover the baby's feet, and the side corners were folded in to cover the baby's sides. Then bands of cloth were wound around the baby to make a warm, comfortable bundle.

Angels Among Us

2011-12-19T19:33:00.006-07:00

I am simply overwhelmed this year with all of the service that people are giving. Total strangers paying off peoples Christmas layaways! It is such a special time of year and there are so many in need. When I was in Walmart the other day I was asking the checker if she was all ready for the holiday and she said to me " I will have to wait to get my check two days before Christmas before I can shop".................It really set me back............It took me back .....to a time when this was me........ When my children were small and I was sometimes working two and three jobs.

I had not forgotten when times were hard for us, but I had not thought about those days in a very long time. Sometimes the Lord humbles us into the remembering..........remembering that there are so many that are still struggling and feel there is no hope.

Please do a good deed this holiday.........pay a good deed forward.

Help someone in need and bring a smile to their face

Ease someones burden!

St. George, Utah Temple

2011-12-19T08:18:00.004-07:00

I simply could not head to Tuachan on Saturday night without going by the St. George LDS Temple. I am seldom in town at night (town is 45 minutes away). The Temple has the most beautiful holidays lights and Nativity and the lights are turned on the day after Thanksgiving.

Most all the Latter Day Saint Temples are decorated for the Christmas holiday so if you get a chance please try to visit one in your nearby area.

"Losing our way is easy if our daily decisions don't connect to our eternal destination"

For more information about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints please visit here: www.lds.org

A Joyous Night at Tuachan With Alex Boye

2011-12-19T08:01:00.008-07:00

On Saturday night I attended the Alex Boye concert at Tuachan. It was amazing! He is such a talented performer and singer. The show was awesome!

The entire theatre and surrounding areas were so dressed up in their holiday best! There were carolers, a Christmas train..... Santa and of course the live Nativity.

Tuachan Amphitheatre and Center for the Arts is a nonprofit arts organization nestled in the mouth of Padre Canyon below towering 1500 foot red sandstone cliffs in Ivins, Utah adjacent to Snow Canyon State Park. The 42,000 square foot facility was completed in 1995 and includes a 1920 seat outdoor amphitheater, a 330 seat indoor theater, a dance studio, a black-box theater, a recital hall, a costume shop and scene shop, studios, classrooms, and a gift shop.

Tuacahn presents professional large-scale musical theatre productions as part of the annual "Broadway in the Desert" series. The center also presents The Festival of Lights with Live Nativity during the holiday season as well as a spring and fall concert series.

To visit here please follow this link: http://www.tuachan.org/

No Calories Here..........

2011-12-17T11:26:00.011-07:00

Peanut Clusters made! Yummy...these are for neighbors and friends and few for me too!

Between my two daughters and I we buy the 10 pound bar and split it three ways.

This is actually how big the chocolate bar is. Wowza.........We started buying this locally about 20 some years ago for around $20.00. This year I paid nearly $40.00!

The Angel Gabriel's Visit To Mary

2011-12-16T18:50:00.019-07:00

My favorite time of year is pretty obvious to most of you and it is mostly because it is the birth of "My Lord and Savior". I love to read in Luke of the entire journey of the birth of Christ and the events that lead up to this special time.

As our electricity went out the other night for two and a half hours... it was the perfect time to get my scriptures out and to start to really feel the true meaning of this holiday for me as a Christian. I love reading in the book of Luke. How I love the virgin Mary!

Thank you for letting me share these special thoughts and feelings with you.

Luke: 1:26 And in the sixth month the Angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
28 And the angel came in unto her and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be (wondered what kind of a greeting this was).
30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.

Next, Gabriel gives Mary a brief description of her special Son. Mary would no doubt have recognized some of the ancient propheies quoted by the angel which would help her comprehend the significance of this announcement to her.

32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father, David.
33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
34. Then Mary said unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know no a man.

35. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Next Gabriel tells Mary that her elderly cousin Elizabeth (actually a relative, not necessarily a cousin see Luke 1:36 footnote), is expecting a son.

36. And, behold, thy cousin Elizabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. Elizabeth would give birth to John the Baptist.

37. For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Mary's Humble Response

There is probably no greater example anywhere in scripture of humble faith and submission to the will of the Lord than the response given by Mary to the angel's announcement.

38. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

One Of My Favorite Gifts

2011-12-16T06:16:00.008-07:00

One of my most favorite holiday gifts that I love to give and receive are holiday kitchen and bath towels. It's not really something you buy for yourself and it just adds a little more festive look
to your kitchen and bath area.

This is one of my most favorite things to buy the day after Christmas, as you can get them for almost nothing. Then you have them already tucked away for the next Christmas. Just don't forget you have them! Done that before............

I love this one and I found it online for about $16.00 a towel. I'm sure it's very well made and I love the trees......but a little pricey for me to buy!

How cute are these little towel holders! I can't even believe the price....$8.00 at Big Lots and that buys the towel holder and towel!

I am heading to town today and I guess I will just have to run by and check them out.

The price is sure right.