Please excuse me while I talk to myself. . .

Recipe of the Week: Better For You Banana Bread

2012-01-31T21:22:00.002-06:00

Confession: until I was married I actually thought banana bread was healthy.

So, imagine how happy I was when I found this "Better for you" banana bread recipe. Then imagine my pure joy when Ben and I both agreed this was the best banana bread either of us had ever eaten. It is a MUST try.

FLOUR MIXTURE
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
3/4 cup sugar
2 tea baking powder
3/4 tea baking soda
1/2 tea salt
1/4 tea ground cinamon
14/ tea ground nutmeg

BANANA MIXTURE
1 1/2 cups large ripe bananas, peeled and mashed well (this will be about 3 medium or 2 1/2 large bananas, do not exceed the 1 1/2 mark or your loaf will be gummy and dense. Also, make sure they are ripe. Partially blackened bananas are necessary for optimal taste)
4 TB unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
1/4 cup low-fat plain yogurt or low-fat sour cream (do not substitute nonfat, needs to be low-fat)
1 tea vanilla

optional
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped coarse

DIRECTIONS
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 325 degrees. Lightly coat an 8 1/2 by 4 1/2-inch loaf pan with vegetable oil spray.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. In a separate bowl whisk the wet ingredients.
3. Gently fold the banana mixture and walnuts (if using) into the flour mixture with a rubber spatula until just combined (do not overmix). Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out with just a few crumbs attached, 55-65 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through the baking.
5. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 min, then turn out onto a wire rack and let cool for 1 hour before serving.

Make ahead tip:

You can pour the batter into muffin tins (about 16 to 18 muffins) and then freeze them. Once they are frozen, remove from freezer for about two minutes. Then, pound the muffin batter out (like you would an ice cube in an ice cube tray). You can then put all the muffins in a zip-loc bag and keep frozen until ready to eat. This way you can make only a few muffins on mornings you need a warm breakfast.

The final result truly is divine, whether in bread or muffin form. Try it, you'll thank me.

Opportunities to do Good

2012-01-29T19:07:00.002-06:00

A sister in our ward lost her husband earlier this week. He was only 32 when a diabetic seizure took his life. He left behind four adorable children. This summer I told Katrina she needed to write a book about raising children, cause her's are the best behaved in Primary.

The youngest, 4, is in my class. Each week she reminds us that her dad is in heaven. Katrina had letters and drawings the kids created the evening of his death on display at the viewing. They really broke my heart, but also resembled how strong she is -- she is the rock they need.

Her birthday is two days after Valentine's Day, and I'm sure the whole week will be hard. Another sister in our ward is organizing "Operation Valentine's Day" and trying to collect as many Wal-Mart gift cards as she can (even $5 ones will do). The goal is to help the family out with their groceries this month.

Before I could even try to figure out what budget category I'd put that under, I realized my credit card reward program was the perfect opportunity to get a gift card for Katrina. I wanted to post these details just in case anyone else felt like they needed an opportunity to do some good this month. If you'd like to help "Operation Valentine's Day" you can send a Wal-Mart gift card my way (seriously, $5 is enough) and I'll make sure the family gets the card.

I don't really want to puy my address up here though, so if you're interested I suppose you'll have to leave a comment. There is a facebook group started, I could send you more info through facebook if you are interested.

Winter Snows

2012-01-27T10:41:00.001-06:00

It took winter a while to come to the Midwest, but it arrived as brutally as ever. The snow isn't piled up too high, but there was a week where temperatures were consistently 30 below freezing. Once that was over, and we hit the freezing mark, I bundled Reid up and we headed out for some fun.

He's played in the snow three times now. The first time he was ecstatic and it was nearly impossible for me to get him back inside. The second time he had a couple of falls and a lot of tears. So this third time he mostly just stood there like a statue. Not really eager to play but not upset.

The fresh air and photo shoot were enough to make me happy though! There was actually a light snow while we were out, and I think that may be one of the reasons Reid was so still. He either didn't notice or was shocked into trying to figure it out. Still not sure which.

He did give me a couple of little smiles though.

Envy

2012-01-26T08:41:00.002-06:00

I assure you, I have no envy of Steve Jobs. I would rather die cold, homeless and starved than die with what he had.

That man treated people like cogs in a machine. He knew his factories hung nets in their buildings in order to catch people when they tried to commit suicide. He knew parents in China would get phone calls, telling them their children were in the hospital, due to working conditions at factories he contracted with. He knew the people who built his products were only paid 31 cents an hour and worked up to 35 hours straight -- standing so long their legs would swell, making them unable to walk. And yet, in PR stunts across the world he talked about how well treated they were because of the factories' nice restaurants.

I pray that when he met our Maker, he learned about the love of Christ. I pray he learned how deeply Christ loves all His Chinese children who have been treated like animals so that Steve Jobs company could make record profits. I pray he understands how deeply Christ has suffered for those children.

This may seem really out of the blue. But I'll discuss it more later. I can't even focus right now. I'm sitting on my bed in tears. And I've only finished the first page of a seven page cover story printed by the NY Times today.

I NEVER read the Times. I don't read city newspapers, as I don't find them as credible a sources as national sites like NPR and Politico. But this morning as I put Reid down for his nap I had the impression that I should check the NYTimes.

I'm so thankful I did. As frustrating as the new knowledge I have is, I'm so thankful I have it.

Working out the brain and the body.

2012-01-25T11:19:00.002-06:00

So picture me last night, riding the stationary bike in the Y's fitness center -- clapping away to the President's State of the Union Address. And yes, I was also judging people who thought watching reruns of chopped was more important than watching the SOTU. Here's a breakdown of what they missed.

Starting with the bad. 1) It was too long. My legs eventually turned rubbery and I had to stop riding, and I'm sure I looked like a fool standing next a bike, watching TV at the gym. 2) Obama made too many comparisons to Bush's presidency. I personally get tired of hearing blame or being reminded of how badly we had it under W. BUT I understand why Obama did this. The far right wants people to think Obama is for tough regulations, government run healthcare, and a pro-poverty economy. This is absurd! Considering Obama has deregulated more than W did and Obama has written less regulations than W did -- there is no ground for the first accusation. Aside from a personal mandate (which Gingrich supports) Obama's healthcare bill is in no way a government take over. His bill actually strengthened the private insurance and medicine sectors (much to my dismay). Bush on the other hand, created one of the biggest government health care monopolies this country has seen in 38 years (MMA). Obama has deported more illegal immigrants that Bush ever did (again, much to my dismay). Obama has created more manufacturing jobs than Bush ever did (not a hard task, since Bush saw more losses to manufacturing jobs than any President in modern times, his father lines up beside him with large losses as well). Though the constant reminder of how terrible the last GOP Presidency was, was a little tiring, I do understand why Obama felt it necessary.

Onto things I liked:

I appreciated his telling Congress that they need to work together. Twice he made reference to how our Military service men can work together for the good of this country despite philosophical differences. Why can't Congress do the same? He also mentioned that the gap between Wall Street and Main Street wasn't as big as the gap between Congress and their constituents (I think this was one of my claplikeafoolmoments). I appreciated how honest he was in recognizing despite party differences (think immigration reform), there are still compromises that can be made (think the Dream Act). He made it clear that there is no reason to delay any compromises.

I'm glad he mentioned his willingness to cut Federal Government back. He wants to close three agencies, and there is no reason Congress should stop him (Bush created one of the largest agencies we have right now -- and he ballooned other pre-existing agencies).

I totally stand side by side with the President on tax reform. I love how he mentioned creating a fair tax for the wealthy isn't envy. Just because middle class citizens want millionaires to be taxed at at least the same rate as the middle class, doesn't mean the middle class is trying to rob the wealthy of their successes. Call it class war fare if you want, but it is not envy -- it's common sense and it's fairness.

Overall, I felt like that was one of the President's main themes of the night: fairness. He spoke a lot about how Higher Education and skills training needs to be made more readily available. There are thousands of jobs open in the US that our workers just don't have the right skills for, why can't we fix that problem? He talked about how over seas companies shouldn't get tax breaks, they should get tax increases. And companies who stay in the US should get support from the Federal Government. I felt like the underlining tone in all the topics he discussed was that fairness needs to drive Government policy (I really loved when he mentioned insider trading for Congress needs to be illegal -- just like it is for the rest of us, and I really wished the camera would have zoomed in on Pelosi at that moment).

In the end, the speech wasn't super memorable and it didn't come off as too strong a campaign pitch. I really think his direct message was to members of Congress. And considering their approval rating is less than 1/4th the President's; I figure they have nothing to loose if they act on his advice. You can't fall too much if you're only standing at 12% (and seriously, who are those 12%?).

So who else watched the SOTU? And what did you think?

The Liberal Media

2012-01-24T10:49:00.004-06:00

Today is a pretty hot day in the media. Romney released his 2009 and 2010 tax records early this morning. Already, there are people angry at the liberal media for not putting the spotlight on the financial situation of people like the Clintons and the Obamas.

Well, because this anger at the liberal media always strikes my curiosity, I spent most the morning not only focusing on the Romneys' records, but also the Obamas', Clintons', and Warren Buffet's (who always comes under fire from the conservative right in regards to his taxes). This post will outline what I found, in case others are curious. I will start with the wealthiest of the four and work my way down. I will include percentages given to the US in taxes and percentages given to various foundations (or Churches) in charitable donations. I'm not really going to give an analysis of my findings; I like to leave that up to the facts.

Buffett earned almost $69 million in 2010. He paid slightly higher than a 17% tax rate. He has repeatedly asked that his rate be raised. He gives at least 30% of his income to charities. Also, (just today) he has pledged to give 15% of his 2011 income to the US government to pay down the debt (on top of his taxes), IF 10% of Congress will pledge to do the same. The total amount of Buffet's income that he parts with is 50% (and I should note, he plans on giving it all away upon death, his children will not inherit a penny -- out of love).

Romney is the next wealthiest. Making an average of $22 million a year in the past two years. His tax rate is between 14 and 15%. His proposed tax plan would lower that rate. He donates an estimated 16% of his income to charities. The total amount of Romney's income that he parts with is 30% (in fair comparison with Buffett, I'd note Romney donated all the inheritance his father left him).

The Clintons make less than Romney, but still somewhere near 15.5 million a year. The Clintons pay the highest tax rate (as their income is earned through "labor"). They pay over 31% in taxes and donate an additional 10% to charity. Making the total amount of income that the Clinton's part with 42%.

The Obama's are last in line. They earn about 1.7 million a year (most of it comes from book sales, a "labor" income). Their tax rate is slightly higher than 26% and they donate 14 to 15% to charity. The Obamas part with 31% of their income (which is the smallest income by a SIGNIFICANT margin).

Well, that's a wrap. I'm not making any analysis of this data. I just wanted to put the data out there for other eyes to behold.

But I will share a thought that has been ringing in my ears "Where much is given, much is required."

Learning to Kiss

2012-01-23T19:55:00.001-06:00

I was so excited when Reid caught on to "kisses." Without prompting he kissed my parents goodnight while we were at their place for Christmas. His snuggles were often paired with a few slobbery affections. It was so adorable and I was so impressed by how well he learned to give kisses.

Well turn the clock three weeks ahead, and now Reid ONLY kisses his dad. He absolutely will not give me any kisses, but he gives Ben four or five each day. Ben doesn't even ask for them. We'll just be playing in the front room and Reid will wander over to his Dad and give him a big kiss. It's so cute, and so irritating all at the same time!

Sometimes, you really do just have to wonder what is going on in their little heads.

P.S. These pictures were taken on New Year's Eve 2011, when we awarded him Kid of the Year. If he keeps this "no kisses for mommy" business up there will not be a repeat in 2012 :).

Recipe of the Week: Slow Cook Chicken Tacos

2012-01-17T11:17:00.001-06:00

Who doesn't love a crock pot meal? Who doesn't love a recipe that turns out even better than it was planned? Well, this little number is both for me.

We first made it for the missionaries. It's suppose to be a chicken breast dish with a creamy sauce. But we realized we couldn't cream the sauce (with sour cream and cheese) because one of the elders is allergic to dairy. So Ben (giving credit where credit is due) decided he'd try shredding the chicken into the sauce (minus the the dairy additives). This really was all on a last minute whim, the missionaries were expected to arrive in 10 minutes. Luckily, it turned into a really yummy shredded chicken taco dish, and we've made it several times since.

3 to 4 chicken breasts
1 cup broth
1 cup salsa (we like to use a "sweet" kind, like peach or pineapple chipotle)
1 can corn (15 oz, drained)
1 can black beans (15 oz, rinsed and drained)
2 TB cumin
1 TB chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
(or, instead of all those yummy seasonings, you can just add a pkg of taco seasoning -- which is what the recipe calls for -- but Ben and I swore off that stuff a while ago, due to lots of processing and high pricing; also, I should note I don't measure any of that, by TB I mean three big shakes and by tsp I mean three normal shakes -- this is not a "stress over measurements" recipe).

Warm Tortillas
Sour Cream
Cheese
Cilantro
Lettuce
Tomatos
Avocado
And whatever else you'd like to put on your tacos

Place the chicken in a greased 3 1/2 to 5 quart slow cooker (PS I have no idea what size my slow cooker is). Pour broth, salsa, corn, beans, and seasoning over chicken. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 2 1/2 to 3. Do not over cook, this will make the chicken too tough to shred.

When done, remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks (we're not super patient with this step, so our chicken is always a little chunky, see picture). Place shredded chicken back in pot and stir all ingredients together. There still may be some excess liquid, leave it in as this helps flavor the chicken. Dish taco filing out with slotted spoon in order to remove excess liquid from tacos.

Serve with spanish rice, tortillas, and taco fixings. There should be plenty of salsa left, so you can also have chips and salsa as a side if desired.

A Democrat in the LDS Church: Part 2

2012-01-11T22:45:00.001-06:00

Yes, I forgot to warn you this was a two part series.

I just didn't feel yesterday's post was complete. I barely reached my point at the end.

So let's pick back up where we left off...

Before that awkward incident I wrote about last night even took place, I'd decided I wasn't too comfortable with Oshkosh Ward members friending my on facebook. It's not that I have anything to hide. It's just that, until moving to Oshkosh, I'd used friend requests on facebook to catch up with people from a former phase of my life. Friending someone on facebook before I actually friended them in real life felt really wrong. But what was I to do, I couldn't ignore their requests? That would only lead to no friendship at all, in facebook or real life. My conclusion was simply that I'd accept all incoming requests, but that I wouldn't send any myself. It's a goal pretty easy to stick to. Then, if I bothered someone with my occasional "liberal" posts, I wouldn't fully be at fault.

My audience here might beg to differ, but I try not to be too far left on facebook. The most recent NPR article I posted was about a Dr in India who restores sight to thousands of blind patients through an efficient and affordable surgery. The last 2012 Presidential Race video I posted was of Jon Hunstman. And I do try to keep such posts to an every other week minimum. When I have posted about politics in Wisconsin, I've tried to stay neutral, very matter of fact. About a month ago I announced there were enough signatures collected to recall Scott Walker. I didn't mention if I thought that was a good thing or a bad. Within just a few short minutes, two members from my ward liked the status.

There have been other incidents where members from my ward have commented in a way that leads me to believe they share my political beliefs. While waiting for Bishopric meetings to start, one of the councilors has shown Ben clips of The Daily Show. While visit teaching, one sister mentioned her distress over the changing state laws. Another sister quickly told her she didn't want to talk about those things. I understand not wanting to discuss politics while visit teaching, but the program is set up to watch after the welfare of our ward family. I felt the icy situation had only been brought up because the sister was reaching out for help, for support, and perhaps a few words of encouragement. "You're a hard worker, if you aren't valued at this school, you can find a job elsewhere." or "I can't imagine how difficult it must be to worry about health insurance coverage, considering your husband's history with cancer." But instead, she was told to change topic.

That moment broke my heart.

More recently, a sister friended me, right before we were meeting up for a Saturday lunch. As we were leaving the restaurant, I had to pull her aside. I started "this may make me sound crazy, but I saw you were a Democrat on facebook . . . and that really made my day."

She looked back at me mortified. How did I know this about her? "Maybe it was a mistake?" I asked.

"No, I'm a Democrat," almost in shock "that's on my facebook?"

"Yes, and I was so thrilled to see it." I added, "you really will love Utah if you decide to move there, but that part of Utah, you will not love."

Then in a hush "Oh, I know, that's the only reason (husband) is hesitant to go. He doesn't know if he can handle it. That's his only gripe about Church members."

Over lunch, I was moved by this sisters conversion story. Her husband's testimony was such a strength that blessed her whole family and some of his own extended family members. I recalled a talk he had given earlier this summer. His topic was charity, and I have always remembered it for it's gentle undertone, a polite reminder that we should never turn any beggars away.

"I remember his talk, it's been like 6 months . . . but I will always remember his talk."

"Oh my goodness, I threatened him. You better not do that, or I won't go. I'll tell him you appreciated it. It's so weird that you noticed that," her thoughts were back to facebook.

"I'm kind of obsessed with politics," and then we had to part -- return back to the group where neither one of us would dare let all the other sisters know we were likely to vote for Obama and roll our eyes in disgust over Utah politics.

I'm not sure why I was always convinced I was a rare breed. When I look back at my life, I see clearly that there have always been good LDS Democrats around me. Serving as my Stake President, my home teachers, or even just my friend, they have all been a guide of charity and humility. Hopefully, with this election year underway, we can all acknowledge our differences, avoid shoving our opinions at one another, and still be thoughtful enough to consider each other's concerns.

A Democrat in the LDS Church

2012-01-10T20:22:00.001-06:00

When I first moved to Oshkosh, I was asked to help plan the Stake Women's Conference. I knew my name was given as a way for me to meet new people and make friends. I was grateful for the opportunity.

As many Relief Society women tend to do, we got a little off topic while planning our lunch menu. Somehow we were polling to see who uses facebook. Four of us (myself included) admitted to having accounts. One sister kind of drug her feet, "I suppose I should get one, but I'm not sure I want that kind of access to people's personal lives."

It's important to note, this was during the height of the Wisconsin public union battle (now you sense where I'm going).

The leader amongst us endorsed her concern, "I've been avoiding facebook the past few weeks, and will continue to do so until things settle down. Those are things I don't want to know about Church members."

Her implication was well received. I started to get very uncomfortable. The non-facebook using Sister responded, in a mix of horror and shock "Really? People in our ward are posting about that stuff? Who?" as if knowing political affiliations was hot gossip.

"Oh, I don't want to get into that here," the other sister shrugged. "Besides, I don't know what each of your affiliations are." There was a quiet pause as she turned and looked at me. Almost as if she were giving me a chance to jump in.

"If there were a Democrat here, we'd all know it by now. They can't keep it to themselves," proclaimed the boisterous sister across from me. Then she continued, "And you're right the Church doesn't tell us which party to belong to, but we all know what party we're suppose to belong to." The last part was said with a proud nod and light chuckle.

Then the whole table broke into slight laughter, even I admit to faking a smile and a few low rumbles, only in attempt to cover up my own discomfort. I was not going to be confrontational, and I was not going to discuss politics in the Lord's House. Which is why I'm so thankful for the sweet sister from my ward, who politely chimed in "Oh, come on you guys. You can be a good member of the Church in either party."

The leader amongst us once again tried to neutralize things with an "I suppose" statement. But more fits of laughter came as the other woman could not restrain herself from one more jab "Sure, that's what they say, but we all know you can't be."

As I forced more laughter I could only make eye contact with Kathy, and even that was hard to do. How could these women so kindly attack the very person I am. I'm not just an LDS Democrat. I'm an LDS Democrat who is passionate about politics. Understanding current affairs has always been an educational hobby of mine. This wasn't just a matter of my political beliefs, this was truly about who I was as an individual.

I'm grateful for the kind Heart Heavenly Father lent me that night. I can honestly say that as the meeting continued I held no ill feelings. If I were to run in to that insulting sister again I wouldn't even recognize her, so no grudge can be held. Still, I do remember feeling no shame in knowing they likely all saw my anti-FoxNews bumper sticker as we drove into the night. I'd hoped they could somehow figure out I was a Democrat. And that I sat by, politely laughing at their jokes as they ridiculed me. Not that I needed to be heroic, or that they needed to be apologetic. I just hoped that somehow they would find out I was a Democrat and that I hadn't been pushy or pouty, and that in the future they would avoid such conversations in case another Democrat was silently sitting amongst them.

Because I'm certain that if you were to randomly select a group of five Later-day Saints, at least one would be a Democrat. I'm certain we've all been given the misleading impression that most who share my religion are also members of the GOP. As I've grown, and become more engaged in both politics and the Gospel, I've met hundreds of Later-day Saint Democrats. In fact, I know more self proclaimed Democrats here in our Oshkosh ward than I do Republicans. Sure, I don't know the political affiliation of most the members, but I assure you the ones who have worn their party on their sleeve the most are the Republicans.

Yup, this is what I did on a Saturday Night

2012-01-07T21:46:00.002-06:00

Remember last time I watched a debate? I was crazy in thinking Romney sounded best. I think my confusion stemmed from Huntsman's absence.

I'm watching the latest debate at this very moment. And I have no one to talk to it about, so here you go . . . real time thoughts.

I'm glad Bachmann is gone, gives other's more exposure.

Perry has really spent a lot of time practicing . . . ha ha.

I really think I'd vote for a Huntsman/Paul ticket. The GOP won't put it up, but really, I'd vote for them if they were teamed!

Sure wish I didn't have to listen to Gingrich. All I hear: blah blah I'm great blah blah I'm slimy blah blah the GOP must really be in bad shape if they are seriously considering me for a position higher than the one they fined and fired me for blah blah.

Santorum won't last on top long, financial hypocrite.

HUNTSMAN IS SO CLASSY!!! He never attacks the other candidates, he never attacks Obama. I really would vote for this guy!

Go Paul Go! I love that you bring up real issues! Dang you're smart. And bold! Drugs and the death penalty in one. I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU! If Ben were here he'd kiss you on the face, I'm sure of it.

An Obama/Huntsman debate would be so Presidential. Intellectual. Professional. Fabulous!

Santorum won't last on top long, intellectual hypocrite.

Gingrich . . . shut up about news media. You do this every debate, and it's ridiculous. I want to vomit all over your anti-Christian statement. Oh great, now Romney is agreeing. Christians in America are not under attack! Even if they were . . . they kind of deserve it.

Oh, and now Mr Gingrich, you are going to attack Islam? So professional. You wonder why you hear anti-Christian undertones across the globe? You are clearly attacking the world's largest religion because they don't adhere to your Christian beliefs.

Santorum won't last on top long, lies about military/security needs.

Are these men really talking about starting new wars? THEY ARE SO DUMB!!! "We have to cut spending, we're broke." 10 minutes later -- "our troops should be in every nation on this Earth, cause we're perfect and everyone should be Christian. I don't like anyone different from me. Clone me, clone me. Then I can go kill people who aren't like me. And waste all the poor people's money while doing so. Yeah!"

------------This is the point I realized my ramblings were crazy. And chilled out for a minute-----------------

Alright Romney, I hear you on that. Each American does have the right to pursue happiness. In my pursuit of happiness I want quality health care for everyone. Affordable food (and even free food) available for our starving children. Shelter for the homeless women who live in our communities. How do you propose I work toward my pursuit of happiness if your whole goal is to give the wealthy more wealth and the poor less opportunity, and to spend my money in pointless wars?

Does Santorum remember there are states West of Ohio?

Oh Romney, stop attacking Democrats. If you want to win the Presidency, you'll need some of our support. PS You haven't lived in our Economy; you were worth millions of dollars the moment you were born.

Romney, planting fear in American hearts is unhealthy. Remember, fear is of the devil. wink wink

Romney, China sells us more stuff than we sell them because of the American CONSUMER. You can't fix American consumerism with a trade war. You are so dumb sometimes!

Final thoughts: Gingrich and Perry are probably going to drop out soon after the New Hampshire primary. The other four will make it a little further, but I'm pretty sure it will come down to Romney and Paul, and the GOP won't even consider Paul . . . so Romney it is. Bummer.

Best Christmas Gift Ever

2012-01-02T21:18:00.001-06:00

I know, I've turned in to a weak sauce blogger.

Oh well.

I guess I'm just trying to decide if I really enjoy blogging anymore. I don't really know what I enjoy anymore. Is that crazy? I've started like 4 different novels in the past two weeks, and can't get into any of them. If I don't even like reading anymore, I've really lost my self.

Anyway . . .

I've been loving all of Ben's time off. We have so much fun together as a little family of three. We enjoyed all our Christmas travels. Spent plenty of time with both families and saw two-thirds of each of our siblings. I'd call that a success.

The best part of our Christmas break tho, was Christmas morning. We were at my parents house, and Reid woke up shouting right on cue -- which is 6:00 am (have I mentioned he's a morning baby?). Well, in Utah it is still dark during Reid's wake up hour. So I quickly snatched him out of his pack and play and plopped him in bed with Ben and I. I could usually get him to snuggle, and maybe even go back to sleep, for an additional 30 minutes, stretching out our sleep hours till 6:30 am. Christmas morning he just wasn't in the mood to snuggle. It was as if he knew a jolly ol' Saint Nicholas had visited during the wee hours of the morning.

Instead of snuggles and extra sleep, I was covered in kisses!

And after Reid slobbered me with half a dozen smooches, he crawled over to his dad's side of the bed, whacked him in the face a couple times (to find his mouth, I'm sure) and dove in for some bearded kisses. It completely melted my heart.

Recipe of the Week: Buttered Chicken

2011-12-19T11:44:00.003-06:00

Fact #1: I LOVE Indian food. More than any other.
Fact #2: Indian food is hard to make (time and rare spices usually create obstacles)
Fact #3: Indian restaurants are very difficult to find in Wisconsin.
Fact #4: I'd probably give up my right arm if I could eat at the Banana Leaf in Singapore just once a week. Dramatic, maybe. But it's pretty true.

So, imagine my joy when I found a Buttered Chicken (what's that? you ask -- well it's just the yummiest thing on the planet) recipe that I knew I could do in my own kitchen, with mostly pantry items!

This recipe, will definitely be made again. And again. And again. And again. Until I die.

As a random aside: I read the other day that helping your children foster a love and concern for international affairs and cultures can be as simple as cooking food from different countries in your own family kitchen. So not only is this yummy, but it will also help your children with their emotional development in todays modern world. Win! Win!

Buttered Chicken

2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 fresh jalapeño, seeded, and chopped
1 tablespoon olive or canola oil
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cardamom
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup half and half or heavy cream
1 Bay leaf
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch chunks (thin, long chunks are most authentic)
1/2 teaspoon coarse-ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (1/8 lb.) butter
2 cups basmati rice, uncooked
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro, chopped

Cook rice according to package instructions.

In a large saute pan, combine onion, ginger, chili, and oil. Stir often over medium-high heat until onion is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, garam masala, chili powder, cardamom, and coriander. Saute for an additional 2 minutes.

Scrape mixture into a blender or food processor; add tomato paste and chicken broth. Whirl until very smooth. Pour mixture back into pan, add half and half or cream and bay leaf, and bring to a gentle boil over high heat (mixture is inclined to spatter). Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, until reduced to 3 cups, about 5-7 minutes. Pour sauce into a bowl. Rinse and dry pan.

Pat the chicken dry. Mix chicken with salt and pepper. Set pan over high heat; add 1 tablespoon butter and the chicken. Stir until chicken is no longer pink on the surface, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the sauce and simmer over medium heat, stirring often, until chicken is no longer pink in the center (cut to test), 3 to 4 minutes. Cut remaining 3 tablespoons butter into chunks and stir into sauce until melted.

Spoon chicken and sauce onto rice. Squeeze lime juice over portions and garnish with cilantro.

To avoid too much splattering I used the biggest pot I have, and I'm glad I did. It's weird to saute onions in a big pasta pot, but once you get it all liquified you'll be glad you have it in there.

We serve this over rice and cauliflower. Peas are another common side with Indian food. There is enough sauce to cover the veggies as well.

For your enjoyment, here's a shot of me and some of the world's finest ladies grubbing at the Banana Leaf I'm willing to give my arm up for. We'd pinch our pennies all month for this annual P-day treat. And yes, I'm the one with a spoon (nope on closer look those are my fingers, the best way to eat authentic Indian food) shoved in my mouth!

Now, if only I could master garlic naan and mango lassi. Life would be nearly perfect!

How many more must we fight?

2011-12-15T11:48:00.000-06:00

Today, the Iraq war is technically ended. Our presence in Iraq will never be over. I'm not speaking metaphorically; this is what America does. We go to war with a country, and when we "leave" we leave behind OUR military bases, thousands of our soldiers and "diplomats." We never really leave a country. In the game of risk, we are a gigantic presence. A presence that generally wasn't welcomed, but forced.

Below, I have quoted one of the greatest Presidents, military leader, and soldier this country has ever seen. A Republican I deeply admire and greatly respect. One I wish was still around to lead us today (though by today's standards I don't think he'd be a Republican). I've italicized his words that strike me most, and included the year each phrase was spoken.

I hate war as only a soldier who has lived it can, only as one who has seen its brutality, its stupidity. -- 1943
A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both. -- Jan 1953
No nation's security and well-being can be lastingly achieved in isolation but only in effective cooperation with fellow-nations. -- "The Chance for Peace," April 1953.
Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children . . . Under the cloud of threatening war, it is humanity hanging from a cross of iron.
Is there no other way the world may live? -- "The Chance for Peace," April 1953.
A nation's hope of lasting peace cannot be firmly based upon any race in armaments but rather upon just relations and honest understanding with all other nations. -- "The Chance for Peace," April 1953.
The fruit of success . . . is this: the dedication of the energies, the resources, and the imaginations of all peaceful nations to a new kind of war. This would be a declared total war, not upon any human enemy but upon the brute forces of poverty and need. The peace we seek, founded upon decent trust and cooperative effort among nations, can be fortified, not by weapons of war but by wheat and by cotton, by milk and by wool, by meat and timber and rice. -- "The Chance for Peace," April 1953.
In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military industrial-complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. -- Farwell Address, 1961
I hated to see our country be the first to use such a weapon. -- 1963 (about the atomic bomb)
We are so proud of our guarantees of freedom in thought and speech and worship, that, unconsciously, we are guilty of one of the greatest errors that ignorance can make — we assume our standard of values is shared by all other humans in the world. -- I don't have a date for this one, sorry.
(And tho this one has nothing to do with war, I like it): In the transformation from a rural to an urban society, children are — though they might not agree — robbed of the opportunity to do genuinely responsible work. -- 1967

Ike's words are so refreshing. So prophetic. So profound. They apply to us now, when our very form of democracy is under serious threat, more than they ever have. A vast majority of our Congressional and Jurisdictional leaders completely ignore his warnings, leaving it truly up to US citizens to try and understand and implement them. I recommend everyone read his 1961 Farwell Adress and his speech titled "A Chance for Peace." You will not regret the time spent doing so.

Well Hello Toddler

2011-12-14T07:41:00.000-06:00

Reid has learned so many new tricks in the last month, it's hard to keep up with what he might do next. I really just can't underestimate how intelligent he is. For example, when he isn't in the mood for a nap (or when he's ready to get up for the day), he throws his blanket, his puppy, and his book out of his crib. Then he proceeds to scream. Even if I let him scream himself tired, I have to go into his room. Why? Well, he doesn't sleep well (or at all) without his puppy. What a turd!

He's a terrible kisser, but gives kisses none the less. His kisses involve shoving his open, drooly mouth on your lips/nose/chin. High fives are usually given to dad's forehead. And he asks for more food (via sign language) just to play with it.

He is an excellent snuggler (especially during Sesame Street, which means he watches more TV than he should). When we run errands he is fabulous and everyone compliments the little angel (not the mom). He's got the best grizzly bear growl and a giggle that melts our heart everyday.

Sure do love him! Even on days like this . . .

The AM

The PM.

Yup, these two pics were taken the SAME day!

What a turd!

PS Sorry Grandpa B, for the turd talk :)

Before and After

2011-12-12T20:07:00.003-06:00

Before I was a mom: I work out so I can eat whatever I want.

After I was a mom: It's easier to 'just say no' to my cravings, than it is to go work out.

Good thing he's cute!

And on the morn of Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T10:20:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for Health.

#1. Ben and I participated in our local Turkey Trot this morning. This was something I always wanted to do out in Arlington, but just never got around to it. Remember earlier this week when I said I was thankful for Festival (grocery store)? Well, Festival sponsored the event and all the proceeds went to the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club of Wisconsin. I really love Festival. But back to health . . . I'm thankful for the strong body I've been given, that makes it possible for me to participate in such an event. There was a paraplegic participating as well, and I wanted to go hug her. But didn't.

#2 I'm thankful for the day in age we live in, where medicines and knowledge of healthy living can expand our lifespan, and make the journey a little more tolerable in comparison to earlier centuries or other nations.

#3 I'm thankful for vaccinations. I'm not even that bothered when Reid gets his shots. He's usually so brave, and only cries for a few seconds. Which is totally worth nearly eliminating the risk of polio, measles, and so much more.

#4 I'm thankful for the good health of my parents. And grandparents. I'm so glad I was able to enjoy 3 of my 4 grandparents all the way into their 80th years. I pray my kids will have the same great blessing, and that my parents will age with as much grace as their mothers.

#5 Did you notice I said I'm thankful for health? I was not specific about good health. That's because I'm even grateful for the illnesses that occasionally occupy my body. As much as I hate dealing with the common cold or a knock out flu, I'm grateful for the gentle reminder that I am weak -- a mere mortal. I'm usually so dramatic over illness that I really do take the time to think about my Savior, suffering those same aches and pains, in order to succor me in my time of need. I take a minute to look forward with great hope for the day we will all be resurrected and given a perfect, immortal body. What a glorious gift!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

Power of Music

2011-11-23T21:16:00.003-06:00

Today I'm thankful for music. Why? Because I don't know how I would have gotten through 2 hours of L'Bri work without iTunes! Don't get me wrong, I love working for L'Bri, but working from home is hard. It requires discipline, which I lack.

Anyway. Five reasons I'm grateful for music.

#1 Hymns. My life would be nothing if it weren't for the powerful spirit felt by the hymns. You may say this sounds like an exaggeration, but it is not. My earliest memories of feeling the spirit are all connected to Hymns. I owe my life to the LDS Hymnal.

#2 "Pop" music in all it's variations. I've loved nearly every type of music at one point in life. And even the types I've never deeply loved (R&B, blues, jazz), I've at least valued and sorted through. I really love all the variations of radio tunes.

#3 Piano lessons. After reading "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother" I finally understood the true value of my childhood piano lessons. Through that trial (and small talent) I learned you can do anything with the right amount of dedication and practice. I am convinced piano lessons help children build confidence, intelligence, and character.

#4 I-Pods. How cool is it that you can hold thousands of songs in your pocket? I remember roaming the wilds of 4000 West with a hand me down walkman, and thinking it was just grand. Who knows what the next 20 years will bring. I can't even imagine.

#5 Hmmm, I'm going to single out an artist here. Josh Groban. His words are so uplifting and inspiring. His voice is so soothing and absolutely amazing. I've gone through lots of go-to's (everything from Tim McGraw to All American Rejects), but Josh Groban is my longest lasting love affair. What a voice!

PS. I really wanted to post my gratitude for books, but I did that one back in 2009. Darn! Come to think of it though, no one would notice the repeat. (She gives herself a pat on the back for this small ounce of integrity).

The WWW

2011-11-22T21:55:00.001-06:00

The other day I was sitting with a friend while we waited on the internet. We were both complaining about how slow it was moving, and then I had to chuckle. Just 13 years ago (less than half my life span) the task at hand would have been unthinkable. Yes, I know the internet can be a great time waster. But I do want to take a moment to list 5 reasons I am thankful for the world-wide-web.

In a nutshell: npr.org, facebook.com, skype, mint.com, and hulu.com

In depth: read on.

First, let's adress the name. World. Wide. Web. So telling! I LOVE that there is a magical "web" of signals floating across the globe, a web that connects us all. I know, even before the internet age there were ways to learn of far off lands, diverse peoples and fascinating cultures; but the internet has made that knowledge more readily available. More time efficient. I dare say most my internet time is spent "thumbing" through news sights. In my youth I learned reading the news was more intimate than watching it. I loved watching my dad lay on the front room floor each night and read the Salt Lake Tribune. Thanks to the internet, I can read dozens of newspapers each morning, day and night . . . and for FREE!

I'm grateful for the communication tools the internet offers. I'm grateful LDS e-mail kept me in touch with my parents when I was literally half a world away. Mailed letters have their charm, but real speed updates and communications can't be beat. I'm grateful facebook helps me find old mission contacts, and share in the joy that is their life -- whether they are still living the Gospel or not.

I'm grateful tools like Skype help Reid see Grandma and Grandpa on the big TV screen once every month or so. It's hard to think he only sees them a few times a year, but Sunday afternoon chats via web cam are always a great way to fill in the gaps between real life visits. Thanks to my techno savy big brother, I watched my parents reaction to our birth announcement on You Tube. It's amazing that the internet not only gives us the power to communicate with our loved ones, but also gives us the opportunity to glimpse into their kitchen.

I'm grateful I can dedicate down time to searching the web.Yes, I'm grateful for at least a few of those wasted hours. I search through recipe blogs . . . and that helps me become a better cook. I research book reviews . . . and that helps me narrow down the texts worth reading. I gaze over craft ideas . . . and that helps me feel humble. You get my point . . . when used appropriately, the internet can actually function as a mentor of sorts.

Last, I'm grateful for the laughs. Without the internet, I wouldn't be able to watch my favorite shows. If I miss Modern Family Wednesday night, I wake up eager to play it on Hulu.com Thursday morning. Ben is always finding random images and clips on the internet, and often times just before bed he'll show me one and we enjoy a good chuckle. When I try to think about how the internet actually works, it's so complex and confusing, but on the surface it truly is entertaining. I am definitely grateful for that.

Farm (in all its variations)

2011-11-21T20:38:00.000-06:00

I'm thankful for Farmland night skys. I have seen open night skys since leaving UT, but they've either been hovering over jungle, mountain or ocean landscapes. This last weekend, as we drove down to Illinois during the dark hour of 5:00pm, I was reminded how much I love the night sky that stretches endlessly above farm fields. The world truly feels like yours for the taking when you stand in an open field, underneath a starry sky.

I LOVE farmers markets. The ambiance is so relaxing, and the prices can't be beat. For example: at Wal-Mart I spent $2 on that floppy, brown basil (2 stems worth) in my hand, and at the Farmers market I spent $2 on that beautiful, lush basil (at least 6 stems worth) filling a medium size mixing bowl.

I wish Farmer's Markets could last all year round, but sadly, the end is here. PS Our last purchase is still in the garage, a 25lb bag of apples, purchased for $10. Love Farmers Markets!

Which brings me to #3. I just love me some farmers. I try to avoid stereotyping groups of people, but I still stand by the assumption that farmers are some of the hardest working people on Earth. They also tend to be giving and honest, in a straightforward sort of way. I know this isn't an accurate depiction of all farmers. I know some farmer's sons who, despite 4am wake ups, turned out pretty lazy. And I know Big Farm does some damaging things to our nation. But to me, the typical American farmer, embodies some of the greatest human values.

I'm thankful for my childhood farm experiences. Ben harasses me for saying I grew up on a farm, and I admit it sounds misleading. But when I casually mention feeding a donkey sugar cubes, riding the hide at a local rodeo, being kicked by a 1 ton cow, or standing my ground while a herd of loose sheep head straight for me; it often gives the impression I grew up on a farm. Though it was my Uncles farm, I still took great pride in it, knowing it once belonged to my grandfather, and at least a few acres of it belonged to my dad. Growing up with farm-life all around you, but never having to do the hard farm labor really is the best childhood to have, ha ha. I'm grateful for it every day. PS I think my favorite casual farm story was when I told my 2nd period I rode 4 miles to the nearest gas station, on the back of my best friends horse, so we could buy Little Debbie treats. They gazed at me like I was a foreigner; they were speechless, until they laughed.

I feel like I've covered everything, the farm land, the farm products, the farm people, and the farm experiences. So I guess the only thing left is to acknowledge farms across the world. That may sound like I'm trying too hard to stretch this . . . but I'm not. I've gazed awestruck at the rice fields of Borneo Island. I've watched as toothless women, aged beyond their years, sort the grains that feed thousands across the globe. I can't dwell on this too much, or I'll get frustrated about the way the wealthy (myself included) take advantage of the laborer. But I must adress my deep gratitude for the meek, and my gratitude that they will inherit the Earth.

Who knows it better than they do?

Wisconsin

2011-11-20T20:16:00.001-06:00

Ben and I had our Thanksgiving weekend early. His younger sister and her sweet baby flew to Illinois for a few days, and so all family members within a drivable distance got together over some Turkey. But that's not what this post is about. This post is about how I need to kick my butt in gear and finally scatter some gratitude around the internet. I was too lazy to post my thanks all month long (via blogger or facebook). I was also too lazy to post 10 days of thankfulness (ala 2009). So over the next 5 days you are going to get a condensed version of gratitude. Condensed on steroids that is. Each of my spotlighted subjects will require five reasons I am grateful . . . and I cannot use any of the subjects I wrote about in 2009.

Let's start with Wisconsin. Yes, I am very grateful for the land of cheese, beer, and crazy Packers fans (tho I have to mention the world would be a better place without one of those three things). Five things I'm grateful Wisconsin has . . .

Roundabouts. That's right, I love em! And trust me, if you could exchange all your freeway exits for roundabouts you would too. They move traffic along so much quicker. Plus, they look so much better than four giant stop lights, one after another (plus, when the power goes out, they still work).

Festival. Or just grocery shopping in general. I remember when I first moved here I thought all the my favorite cereals must be on sale, but then I realized the sale never went away. Groceries are so much cheaper (than VA or UT) in Wisconsin! And Festival runs fabulous weekly coupon deals. I save about 33% (off already low prices) each week. This week I spent $60 but came home with $120 worth of food -- mmmm a freezer full of meat.

Geographic diversity. We are surrounded by forests, wetlands, prairies, and large lakes and rivers. I've learned each area you live in has some beauty to offer, and I'm grateful I get to experience some new ones.

Political passion. There is no doubt the people of Wisconsin are active members of their communities.

Packers. Okay, I'll admit when I started this list I did not think these guys would end up on it. But the reason I love the Packers is purely symbolic. The Packers are the only non-profit, community owned professional sports team in the entire USofA. That's HUGE! And that pride truly is tangible here in Wisconsin. It's a "business" model many state wide companies try to follow, and one I think every corporate entity should attempt to mimic.

It wasn't hard, but Wisconsin definitely earned a spot in my heart.

Can't argue that

2011-11-18T15:04:00.000-06:00

Reid's dad thinks he's a Mama's boy.

Considering this pose occurs a dozen times a day, I can't really argue that.

I won't lie, sometimes it is annoying . . . but then I just remind myself there will come a day he won't even want to hug me, let alone cling to my leg.

LOVE MY BOY!

PS. I've been wanting to do a Thankful Countdown . . . so maybe on Sunday I'll start a 5 day one.

Recipe of the Week: Oreo Truffles

2011-11-15T12:11:00.000-06:00

Hi, I'm Liz. I love Oreos.

That's a fair introduction. If you truly are what you eat, I'd definitely be something you can pour a little milk over and spoon up with pure joy.

In recent months, I've learned Oreo's are pure bliss stuffed inside other goodness. I've made Oreo stuffed brownies (at least a dozen times) and Oreo surprise cupcakes (Reid's birthday treat for Ben's office). The last one had Ben asking me to make this treat again; Oreo Truffles.

I first made these back in DC, but I didn't remember loving them. The guests at the party we took them to all seemed smitten, and my husband sure was. But I, the Oreo lover, wasn't in love.

Maybe distance makes the heart grow fonder, but the batch I made up yesterday is definitely Recipe of the Week worthy. They are so easy to make! Ready for the ingredients?

Here they are:
1 package oreos
1 package cream cheese, softened (I use low fat)
1 package milk chocolate, chocolate chips

Yup, that's all you need.

1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
2. Pulverize the Oreos in a food processor (or blender, or a ziploc bag, or whatever you've got that will crush Oreos).
3. Add the softened cream cheese to the oreo dust. The food processor will mix them up evenly.
4. By hand, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on prepared sheet. Makes approx. 24 balls.
5. Freeze balls for at least 30 minutes (no more than 3 hours). This allows them to set up, in preparation for chocolate dipping
-----
6. When ready to dip, melt the package of chocolate chips SLOWLY. I use the microwave for this. I melt in 3, 20 second increments, stirring between each 20 seconds. (If there is one thing my mother taught me about holiday chocolate making, it's that chocolate that melts too fast turns spotty, and is unfit to giveaway to neighbors -- what a shame, :) Dear Mother, please note: my balls are not speckled, the little spots you see in the photo are purely condensation from coming fresh out of the fridge).
7. Once chocolate is ready, go ahead and dip each ball in. You have to accept the fact that your fingers will turn into a chocolatey mess, all the better for your little ones to lick (it's no wonder we all swarmed around my mother during the chocolate making time of year). Make sure you cover each ball completely, but also try and allow excess chocolate to drip back into the dish before placing the balls on the sheet. If you've ever made homemade chocolates (I'd hope you'd all be so lucky to have a mother as dear as mine), you know the technique. If you use too much chocolate, it will goop (sp?) on the bottom of your treats and then you won't have enough melted chips for each ball.

These are best enjoyed straight out of the fridge, with a glass of cold mile. But you should allow the chocolate adequate time to set up naturally before putting them in to chill.

ENJOY!!!

PS. Since it is nearing the holidays, I'm thinking you could add some green/white/red sprinkles before the chocolate sets up, just to be festive.

Things aren't always as they seem

2011-11-14T22:11:00.002-06:00

I was talking with a good friend the other day about my move to Oshkosh. I probably opened up more than she'd planned, but it's always nice to share your thoughts with someone you know has "been there." We all have difficulties in making new friendships, but something about moving somewhere totally new is best understood by those who have done the same.

Anyway, I was thinking about our first Sunday in Oshkosh. I remember scouring the crowd for young moms like myself, curious about who my new friends would be. I will admit this meant I spent 75 minutes judging people almost entirely on their looks (or how they escorted their toddler out of the chapel). But, I kept all those judgements positive. After all, I needed new friends, and I wasn't about to rule anyone out.

Ironically, I ruled 90% of the congregation out. Did you notice I said I scoured the crowd for young moms like myself? I didn't look for women in their 40s, and think "I bet they'll be my greatest friends a year from now." I didn't look at the elderly couples dotting the room, and think "I'd love to spend my spare time with them." I watched the women who looked my age, who had one or two small children.

I have no real analysis of this moment, other than acknowledging how foolish I was.

The Jibberish in My Head

2011-11-06T21:46:00.001-06:00

Warning: I have no idea where this post is heading. Currently, I'm bummed out about turning 29 this week, so it may be sad :( but I remind myself it is the month of Thankfulness, so it may be happy :)

My sweet in-laws drove up to Wisconsin this afternoon for Sunday dinner and a little pre-birthday fun. Reid loved showing off his new walking skills; he's always such an attention hog. He was stripped down to his wife-beater after dinner, and I have to say the pot belly poking out was pretty cute. What a stud.

Wednesday I come 365 days away from 30 (ahh, is it a leap year this year, will I really be 366 days away?). While I was on the phone with my eldest brother tonight, I just kept thinking "You are 3 and a half years older than me, and you have all your kids now. You have the job you're going to stay at for life. You have all your kids, with one in 1st grade. You're only 3 and a half years older than me."

Is it crazy that I think like that? Don't answer. I'm not really trying to have this conversation with anyone.

When Reid and I go out shopping or to library groups there's always a mom or two who has me wondering "Are you a young grandma, or an older mom?" And there's women I know are first time moms who are a generation older than me. So I know I'm not late in the game, but sometimes I just wish I had three kids down by now.

Which is tricky, cause I'm really glad I didn't have Reid until I was (10 days shy of) 28. I love that I had three good years of college before I even thought about dating someone seriously. I LU-HUVE that I was able to serve an LDS mission in my youth. I wouldn't be me if I hadn't had three and a half good years of DC public school teaching experience. I would never think twice about trading any of that in, in order to have two or three of my kids by now. And really, who knows . . . maybe Reid will be the only one. I mean, I can't get too far ahead of myself.

I guess I just wish you could freeze the aging process around 28. My body literally feels too old to pick Reid up somedays, but maybe those aging aches happen to 22-year-old moms as well?

My wonderings have really gone all over the place. So I'll end with the bottom line: I'm really thankful life works on Heavenly Father's timeline. Where would I be without His guiding hand? I really just have to have faith that He knows how I am to be molded, that the experiences He affords me are what I need in order to become the most refined version of myself. Where would I be without that hindsight? How could I move on without that foresight?

And so, with that as my final conclusion, I guess I will allow the universe to age me one more year. Until someone tells me how I can stop it.

Duh. Duh! DUH!

2011-11-03T22:34:00.004-05:00

I'm hesitant to shout "I told you so," because I know humility is a Christlike attribute I should strive for, but the Wisconsin Republicans have just made it too easy. You may remember all the drama from when I first moved to Wisconsin. For a quick recap: Republican led legislatures made an outright attack on public employees in order to give their millionaire friends some tax breaks; they manipulated laws in order to bust the state level public unions that didn't donate to their campaigns (public unions that supported Scott Walker's election were left untouched). Their opposition held week long protests and made desperate attempts to compromise, but to no avail.

Here we are, eight months later, and the big nightly news story is about the ethics of double dipping. In those eight months 1,100 state employees have retired from their jobs and then re-applied for other state level jobs (just as I predicted). I'd say it's almost laughable (but I'd drop the almost, cause I am literally laughing out loud right now). How did the GOP not see this coming?

One of the Republican legislatures being interviewed kept saying "Is it legal? Sure. Does that mean it is the right thing to do?" I'd like to go back eight months and ask the same set of questions.

Was it legal to create a bill without one single Democrat legislator present? Sure. But was it the right thing to do?

Was it legal to invite all the Republicans into the Governor's office and then lock the door while you signed said bill into law, refusing to open the door to the Democrats knocking on the other side? Sure. But was it the right thing to do?

Was it legal to shut the State Capitol down to Wisconsin citizens? Umm, I'm not sure it was. Aren't WE THE PEOPLE the ones who "own" the State Capitol? So maybe the burden of all this double dipping is karma for being such hot headed jerks (please pat me on the back for not being profane with that last word).

Do I personally think double dipping is ethical? Eh . . . not really. But on the same token I completely understand why 1,100 employees did it. To be fair, I don't think a single one of them did it intentionally. I actually know two double dippers personally. They both retired knowing that the retirement deal being offered to them was going to be the best one they ever got. They both retired knowing there was a good chance they would never make another paycheck. However, they were both highly skilled, highly qualified individuals, so when they found new employment opportunities that fit their skill set, they applied and were hired. Those intentions are NOT unethical.

The lack of understanding and compassion the Wisconsin GOP has shown on this issue is baffling. Did you really think you could threaten 2,000 teachers into retirement and replace them all with ease over the summer? Of course you couldn't. You should be grateful a few hundred of them are willing to fill the vacant spots in nearby school districts.

Naturally, Scott Walker wants to write a bill that will end double dipping. I'd imagine once he finds out that will affect several of his personal, hand picked employees and a few of his favorite legislators, he'll fix the wording of the bill so that only educators can't double dip (similar to Utah's law). I'll write another told you so when that happens, and it will be a classic example of how the GOP attacks the middle class while protecting the upper.

Silly, I know

2011-11-02T15:53:00.001-05:00

So, before I delete old texts, I always go through all my texts from Ben. I know that's a silly waste of time. But honestly, it brings me so much happiness to read through a few months worth of little love messages. Sure there's plenty of boring texts, and maybe even a couple sassy ones (usually in regards to the budget), but even those ones make me smile.

Recipe of the Week: Blueberry Oatmeal Pancake Mix

2011-10-28T16:18:00.002-05:00

This was my love at first sight recipe. My friend Kelli M shared this on her blog, and that was my first introduction to Mel's Kitchen Cafe. I've been in love with Mel's kitchen ever since! Mel's recipes work for even the most novice cooks, and they always deliver delicious results. Her writing is witty and refreshing. And . . . the best part . . . she's from Wisconsin! She's just 4 LDS wards to the north of me (about 45 miles). A couple weeks ago I finally worked up the courage to e-mail her and ask where in Wisconsin she lives (my curiosity was killing me), I also dropped an "I'm LDS line" thinking it was a good missionary moment (forgetting she'd once wrote about her husbands 2 year stint in Brazil). She responded within hours, and told me that not only were we just a few towns apart, but that she was LDS as well. Even in the world of internet blog stalking, Earth's a pretty small place.

Go read the post for her recipe if I don't have you convinced you need to try this. *I'm suddenly remembering I wrote about this recipe once, clearly I want you to try it. Well, now it's officially in my recipe of the week index, so you have to try it.*

Three final words:
EASY
HEALTHY
HOTBREAKFAST
(okay, four words, but I smooshed those last two together to make it three)

To Make the Mix:

3 1/2 cups rolled (quick) oats
5 cups whole wheat flour
3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons baking powder
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 cup vegetable or canola oil

Start by grinding the oats in a blender of food processer. Once they are powder-like, mix all the dry ingredients together in a mixer with a paddle (or by hand). With mixer on slow speed (or gently by hand), drizzle the vegetable oil into the bowl slowly while the mixer is running. When all the oil has been added, stop the mixer and squeeze a clump of mix in your hand. If it stays together, it is just right. If it is still crumbly, add another tablespoon of oil at a time until the consistency is correct (I’ve never had to add additional oil, nor has Mel). Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator (my big bag of mix is in the below Ziploc Bag)

Makes 10 cups dry mix (equal to 10 batches of pancakes, or 10 yummy breakfasts!)

To Make the Pancakes:

1 cup of mix
1 cup buttermilk (a combination of half plain yogurt and half milk will also work)
1 egg
Handful of frozen blueberries (blueberries are great to buy on sale, and then freeze over the winter)

Whisk together the mix, buttermilk, and egg. Let the oats soak up the moisture as you heat up the griddle or skillet. Lightly grease your chosen cookware. I use a 1/4 cup measurer to "drop" my pancakes onto the skillet. Add five or so frozen blueberries on top.When the edges look dry and bubbles come to the surface and don’t break, turn the pancake over to finish cooking on the second side. When done, serve with maple syrup or whatever pancake topping you prefer!

Mel claims, buttermilk can be frozen indefinitely for future batches of pancakes; I haven't tried this yet so I can't tell you how it works. She also claims the mix is good indefinitely, but I've never had to worry about that. We go through our mix pretty quick! I wish I had a picture of the final pancake, but I always want to gobble them up so quick I keep forgetting to snap that shot. Though, the best testament to how delicious these are would be Reid's blueberry face once we're done eating. For Reid, I've also dipped slices of banana in the batter and cooked those up. He loves this big boy breakfast. And I love knowing how healthy it is inside his belly.

Birthday Boy

2011-10-24T19:39:00.002-05:00

Yes, there are 12 photos in this post, but I don't really care. Think of it as a photo for each month of his life. Plus, if you scroll through at just the right pace, you might even feel like you were there.

lick, lick

yum, yum

crunch

squash

ohhhhh

ahhhhh

sigh

what the ...

Okay, I guess that's funny

Can I eat yours too?

I love that guy!

Okay, I'm ready for some presents

I'd say Reid had a pretty good evening!

10 is, 10 loves, repeat

2011-10-24T15:29:00.000-05:00

You may remember, when Reid hit 4 months I did a 10 is, 10 loves post. I've been meaning to do another ever since he hit 10 months. Considering today is his big BIRTHday, I figured now is better than ever. Here goes:

Ten He is:
- a speed demon, on all fours. He has seriously mastered crawling.
- walking all over the place if you hold his hand (or elbow). He will practically run around the house so long as he has the tiniest bit of support, but once you let go of him he falls over (almost as if it is a default protection move).
- 25.8lbs (at his kidney appointment earlier this month anyway, I'll put in the more up to date info on Friday after his 1-year check up).
- 31 3/4 inches (again, I'll update on Friday)
- NOT a picky eater. He'll eat anything. This is a trait we parents love.
- all snuggles when he first wakes up (from naps or nighttime sleep).
- clapping happily whenever he hears the word "yay" (or after he opens the garage door, loves that button).
- a great sleeper. He may not get as many nightly hours as most kids his age, but he goes down without much fuss and usually takes two good naps during the day (sadly, I think he's ready to transition to one, sigh).
- babbling nonstop. Whether it is slurs, jumbled consonants, or shrieking shrills there's almost always a noise coming out of his mouth. So far, I think yay, mama, and dada are the only ones he says knowing what they mean, and even those are questionable most times.
- all giggles when dad is around. Ben wakes him up every morning and I just love listening to Reid giggle while his dad covers him in kisses and tickles.

Ten He Loves:
- the outdoors. Anything outside, anything. He throws a fit anytime we bring him in after playing outside (no matter how cold it is), and if he is crying hysterically (after a fall) we rush him outside and it stops immediately. When we are in his nursery he just wants to stand at his window and gaze outside.
- to dance. He is our little dancing darling; he'll bounce his knees, shake his bum, and wiggle his head whenever the music is playing (or when a rhythmic book is read).
- reading books. His favorites seem to be lift the flap books. He also loves Brown Bear Brown Bear (or Polar or Panda Bear) before bedtime. When left alone with a basketful of toys, he'll often dig threw everything to find his library books, and then he'll sit quietly (amidst the mess of toys) and flip the pages back and forth.
- his two middle fingers. If you've ever seen more than three pictures of him, you know what I mean.
- his best friend pup (the lovey he sleeps with, I don't know what we'd do with out that puppy doll).
- bath time. His naked bum waits eagerly at the edge of the tub each night while we fill it up.
- the kitchen. Per the advice of a nurse practitioner we left one kitchen cupboard unbabyproofed. Inside are all the items he can play with, and you can probably imagine how often he rummages through there.
- the washer. Dishes or laundry, take your pick. He loves watching the clothes go round and round, and I absolutely cannot get any dishes done if he's around (embarrassing story on that one, for later).
- the piano keyboard and my Malaysian bongo drum. He is such a music baby. For Christmas Santa is bringing him a little toddler band; he really loves making music (not just noise, but actual music) and will shrill when he finds a beat.
- Canadian Geese. Whenever he hears the honk of geese overhead he reaches his little arm up into the sky and tries to catch (at least I guess that is what he is doing) the geese. We see nearly a hundred each day. They are often swimming in the pond behind our complex, and when I take him for a stroller ride around the pond he giggles like crazy as we get closer to the geese.

We love our little Super Hero!!!

My husband is the sweetest

2011-10-20T23:33:00.000-05:00

Ben is away for the night. He's sleeping over at the local hospital, participating in a sleep study. Hopefully, this means I won't be attacked in the middle of the night anymore.

Well, I'm partying like expected. It's 11:30pm and I'm finally crawling into my lonely bed. But I wasn't alone. When I pulled back the sheets I discovered two fun size packs of peanut M&Ms.

What a sweetheart.

I watched the whole Republican Debate Tonight

2011-10-18T21:12:00.001-05:00

Yup, I was that bored.

Actually, I had a ball. I have a couple of conservative friends on facebook that I really respect. So I jumped on their conversation thred and really had myself a good time.

Here's my final consensus: Gingrich is clearly out of touch with reality. Paul has good points, but is too far away from mainstream America (which is too bad, cause he's foreign policy plans are what we need right now, no one wants to hear it, but we invite other countries to disrespect us). Bachmann (I'll repent later for this but) I want to punch her in the face. Santorum had some good moments but his temper is out of control, and it doesn't help that no one knows who he is (and I'd recommend you don't google his name, you've been warned). Perry is dum duh dum dum dum, and it shows in each debate. Cain is too vulnerable, he created weak plans and stands by them regardless of their flaws (not to mention, his tax plan turns stay at home moms like me into poverty level Americans). I'm pretty convinced Romney will get my vote . . . in the Wisconsin open primary.

I love that Wisconsin has open primaries. Go cheese-heads!

Legalize Marijuana

2011-10-17T10:11:00.001-05:00

Long ago, I said I would post the MANY reasons marijuana should be legalized. Well, today is that day. I often hesitate to address this topic, as I know it will give many the ammo they need to label me a "liberal with no moral high road," but each month another one of my conservative friends and family members tell me they agree. Legalizing marijuana is a bi-partisan issue in this country. Ron Paul has a fair size of followers on his campaign trail, and he has long been a supporter of legalizing marijuana and ending the war on drugs. Hopefully that is all the preface I need. Now, for a few of the many reasons marijuana should be legal.

1. Marijuana is less harmful than alcohol. There is no rebuttal to this. None.
2. Marijuana grows naturally. Why should I (or any one else) care if someone rolls a natural herb up in a piece of paper and smokes it?
3. The revenue the US government could gain from taxing the sale of Marijuana could cover much of our national debt (I've found this to be the #1 reason my conservative friends support the legalization of Marijuana).
4. I DON'T WANT MY TAX DOLLARS WASTED ON MARIJUANA USERS!!!

Yes, the all caps is an indicator that I will pause here and expound on my claim. Reason number four is why every American should agree with me (well, and reason number one).

Twelve and a half percent of all prison inmates are held on marijuana charges. It costs nearly $25,000 a year to house a prisoner (2008, Denver Post). It costs $30,000 per year per person to provide drug rehab in prison; it only costs $8,000 per year per person to provide drug rehab outside of prison (Lyons, John) (yes, I am citing my sources!). Not to mention, outside of prison the individual is likely to have a job and therefore make a meaningful contribution to society (ie, pay taxes and participate in our consumer economy, and help raise their children).

Those figures only address incarceration. Think about all the taxpayer money spent on the police officers who search for marijuana. All the taxpayer money spent on the District Attorneys who prosecute marijuana use. All the taxpayer money spent on the Public Defenders who defend the accused marijuana users constitutional rights. All the taxpayer money spent on the court hearings, including Judges salaries. It's an ugly snowball. And the bottom line is too much of my tax dollars are spent on criminalizing people who smoke marijuana. When in the end, marijuana isn't even harmful!

The only argument people have left is that it is a "gateway drug" (please note, I say that term in idiot-tone). There is no proof for this! Besides, if marijuana users didn't have to go to drug cartels to get their hands on marijuana, they would no longer have quick access to other illegal drugs.

Obviously, I would prefer a society where no one uses mood altering substances. But so long as mental health drugs (and I've used my fair share of these) are available, and alcohol and tobacco use is legal, there is absolutely no logical reason to waste tax payer money fighting the use of marijuana.

The city of Philadelphia has actually stopped criminalizing marijuana use. They cannot legalize it, due to federal laws, but they do not prosecute it. They simply fine marijuana users; this smart move has brought in millions of dollars. The city is actually making a profit, instead of wasting valuable resources.

There are a lot of other things we need to fix about drug laws and their connection to increased incarceration rates. But I'd like to see us start by legalizing marijuana. I'm sure I have no one convinced with this post, so I invite you to do your own research. Try and find a list of four solid reasons marijuana should be illegal. I'd love to hear what you come up with (that tone is actually sincere).

Try L'Bri

2011-10-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

I mentioned a while back that I was going to start doing some work from home, for a woman I visit teach.

She's an executive manager with a skin care company, L'Bri Pure and Natural. L'Bri's best comparison is probably Mary Kay. In that the company is run like Mary Kay. The products and focus is a little different though. L'Bri focuses on skin care treatments, like moisturizers, deep pore cleansers, and night treatments that fight signs of aging and wrinkles. They have a make up line, but Jody doesn't sell much of it. L'Bri's big appeal is that the number one ingredient in all their products is Aloe Vera. They have no chemicals or dyes, it's all 100% natural (aka organic). Which is funny, cause when I think of sales reps for an all organic company, I think more "hippy liberal," but the ladies I've met in the company are totally Christian conservative types. Anyway...

This post is totally random, but I just thought I'd explain the company I work for and what it is I do. Because Jody is an executive manager (she has the car) she's super busy training and improving her sales team, which leaves less time for focusing on her HUGE client base. So I help her keep up with all that clientele paper work. I process her orders and make client profile sheets. I send out invites for her shows. I help prepare sample hand outs for vendor fairs. I draft her follow up e-mails and monthly newsletters. I typically work 4 hours a week, which really isn't much (I could probably get more into it if I were more ambitious/excited about it). I try to plan my day so that I spend Reid's second nap doing work for Jody.

Well, that's it. This is probably the most boring blog post I've ever made. Working for L'Bri definitely doesn't give me the stories working at Dunbar provided. But it does let me stay home and love on Reid all day (and have a little cash for an occasional shopping splurge), so it's just perfect for me right now.

Incase you want to know more about L'Bri, here's the link to my bosses page (their internet server is kind of archaic, and the main reason she needed to hire me on). If you enjoy the Lia Sophia/Tastefully Simple/Mary Kay type line of work, I'd recommend you look into L'Bri as well.

Recipe of the Week: Slow Cooked Applesauce, breakfast and dessert versions

2011-10-08T09:18:00.000-05:00

Recently, I mentioned Ben's quirky love of kitchen gadgets. Most of these didn't cost us much (cause they were gifts), and our slow cooker was actually FREE. Ben won me the below pictured crock pot when we were playing arcade games at Hershey Park (okay, so maybe it wasn't free, it probably cost my mom a dollar in arcade coins). His winning was hysterical. He was playing one of those games where you have to knock all the change out off the machine. Well, he put in one quarter and all the sudden, hundreds of coins came crashing down. It was so loud and crazy he honestly thought he broke the machine. The crock pot box was extra dusty (as I'm sure it had been sitting up there for years) but it was pretty much the grand prize. How random is that, an arcade's highest ticket prize is a crock pot? We were pretty happy it was there, arcade toys aren't really the greatest when you're nearly 30.

Okay, on to the recipe. I own no canning supplies (it's the kitchen gadget currently on our gift list), but I really wanted to turn some of our neighbors apples into applesauce for Reid. After inquiring how I might do so on facebook, a friend told me to google slow cooker recipes. I found one that had about 400, 5 star review, and 50 or so 4 stars. I made it twice, once with almost all the sugar called for and once with less than half. In the end, I found two YUMMY recipes, that are so easy you'll feel lazy making them.

Desert Applesauce:

8 medium/large apples, rinsed, peeled, cored and thinly sliced

1/2 cup water

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

2/3 cup brown sugar

Place the apples and the water in a 4 to 5 quart slow cooker and cook for 5 to 6 hours on low heat. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice and brown sugar and cook for 30 more mins.

Serve hot over ice cream. Leftovers can be frozen and used as crepe filling (or for more ice cream sundaes).

Breakfast Applesauce:

Follow the above recipe, but only add 2 tablespoons brown sugar.

Serve warm or cold as a breakfast side dish, or add a 1/4 cup applesauce to a bowl of warm oatmeal, for yummy oatmeal flavor your kids are sure to love. Again, leftovers can be frozen.

Yields about 6 cups

Reid's breakfast applesauce, ready to go in the freezer for food storage.

In case you are curious, the simple act of stirring in the sugar and pie spice is what "mushes" the apples into applesauce. If you want chunkier sauce stir around 5 hours, for a smoother sauce stir around 6 hours. I wouldn't recommend subbing the pie spice for cinnamon. Pumpkin pie spice isn't actually pumpkin flavoring, it's the perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger and allspice. The desert recipe really is so yummy (surprise, I prefer the one with 2/3 cup brown sugar!) but the breakfast one is nice and healthy.

Make them both!

The need for facts

2011-10-07T16:06:00.002-05:00

I have a problem with fact checking. My problem is, when someone states something that sounds a little fishy, my brain can't move on until I know the actual facts. This curiosity of mine can't be cured. For YEARS I have avoided any involvement in the pro-life/pro-choice debate. Mainly, because I don't think the two are antonymous with one another.

Before we move on, let the record show I am against abortion. I don't want what I am about to say to confuse anyone on that matter. Against abortion. In fact, let me just get all official on my stance (copy and paste from LDS.org), the only possible exceptions I believe in are:

Pregnancy results from rape or incest, or

A competent physician determines that the life or health of the mother is in serious jeopardy, or

A competent physician determines that the fetus has severe defects that will not allow the baby to survive beyond birth.

Okay, that ought to do. Back to my fact checking obsession--

Usually, I'm able to avoid the topic of abortion because people make claims based on opinion. Sadly, the other day a friend of mine made a ridiculous pro-life statement sound like a fact. I tried tirelessly all day to get the statement out of my head, but alas it curled up in bed with. This morning I had to check the facts.

Here they are, in no specific order:
* There is NO correlation between adoption rates and abortion rates. None.
* Abortion peaked in 1981 and has been on the steady decline since the 1990s.
* Abortion rates are only 3% higher today, than they were when data was first collected (in 1973, as a result of roe v wade).
* There is no way of knowing if abortion rates in the US are higher now that abortions are legal.
* Women are more likely to place their children for adoption if they have higher levels of education, or have higher education goals.
* Adoption rates among minority women have actually increased by 5% since the early 70s (as did their quality of education).
* Adoption rates have dropped by more than 8% among white women (has their quality of education also dropped?).

I really have no point to make in sharing these facts.

My stance on abortion remains the same. And always will, cause God does not change.

I'd love it if adoption were a more viable option for the thousands of American families who are ready and willing to love any child placed in their home. I've been awed by the beauty of adoption for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I dreamed of a multi-racial adopted family. I honestly did. It was a much prettier picture than sex, pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

But I digress. Actually, if I'm not really sure what my purpose in sharing these "abortion" facts are, is it possible to digress? Hmmmm

I guess the last thing I want to say, is I hope these facts have helped other curious minds like my own. I love people who are passionate and educated about controversial topics.

Nope, this is the last thing I want to say: If we really want to fight the ills of abortion, we have to educate and empower women. I'm not talking about sex education or the power of your pregnancy options. I mean we've got to beef up basic public education. Math, reading, and writing skills have to be fine tuned. Science has to be more deeply explored by female brains. The future has to look brighter, and the goals of our young girls have to be set higher. That, is a fact.

Temper Baby

2011-10-06T10:33:00.002-05:00

My little man is sweet. He really has been so easy. But there is no doubt in my mind he has a temper. Hmmm, wonder where he could have inherited that from?

My mom noticed it once while we were visiting. He was crying and crying and wouldn't go to sleep, so she said she'd go rock him. That didn't last. He knew what he wanted, and it wasn't his grandma.

The difficult part is, he gets physical when he's mad. If I pick him up while he's playing with something he shouldn't, he literally pushes against my body with all his strength. I'm really at a loss over what to do. He's not even one yet, so I don't think time outs will work. He couldn't possibly understand it's the physical anger he's being punished for. But he can't communicate, so we aren't able to talk about better behavior choices.

Oh bother. What have I got in my future?

I really want to teach him sign language, as it is proven to lessen tantrums. This makes sense, seems how it gives kids an outlet for communication. I just haven't been consistent enough in teaching him basic signs.

Ugh, why can't parenthood be cute little boys holding frogs all the time?

The Fruits of Our Neighbors

2011-10-05T20:13:00.000-05:00

Few things in life are as sweet as a set of good neighbors.

We took a Sunday stroll over to the Kemper's for a nice visit, and we came home with a stroller-basket full of fresh picked apples and pears.

This picture does not do the quantity justice.

Times this picture by two, and you can start to imagine how much fruit we were blessed with. I made two big batches of apple chips (the machine in the middle). And two big batches of slow-cooked applesauce (tomorrow's recipe of the week).

What did I do with the pears? Well the ones this kid didn't eat . . .

. . . ended up juiced. I love our juicer. Even though I've been known to give Ben a little grief for all the random kitchen appliances we have, I'm actually really impressed by the one we use (second to) least. All I had to do was wash the pears. The juicer discharges the skin, seeds, and core and leaves me with nothing but pure pear juice. Two liters of it so far, and we still have enough pears for one more liter.

It is so yummy; a natural sugar high.

Of all Ben's random appliances (yes, they were nearly all Ben's idea), the dehydrator has been the most worth while. I really recommend each household have one of these:

Making apple chips reminded me of an awful 7th period I had once. They truly were the worst class I ever had to teach, but I found one trick that calmed them all down. Apple chips. I'd literally bribe them that if they were silent for five minutes, I'd give them each one chip. This was the only way we ever got through 20 minutes of silent sustained reading. Even then, most of them just faked the reading and kept their eye on the clock for the whole 20 minutes. Oh middle schoolers.

Anyway, one last shot of the happiest beneficiary of our neighbors fruit:

Reid actually helped his dad and Brother Kemper pick the fruit. He was in heaven for sure. This boy loves the outdoors. Plus, when they were all done he was already on his second pear. He was a juicy, chunky mess the whole walk home. In heaven for sure.

TMI

2011-10-04T09:53:00.003-05:00

Reid turns one in 20 days. 20 days! That is so crazy to me.

When he was just a baby I always thought "why do people say it goes so fast?" I savored his baby stage. It seemed to tick by so leisurely (even with the move cross country). But once Reid was mobile . . . time ran with him. Each day he surprises me by how "toddler" he is.

I feel like we're ready for the next stage. I'm excited to teach him which noises go with which animal. I love that he gives great big hugs. His eagerness to push the glowing green button that opens the garage door is adorable each time we go outside. This sort of exploration is just beginning and I'm excited to see it flourish.

The only thing I'm really sad to say goodbye to, is the breast feeding. And there it is . . . your TMI If you'd like to stop reading now, I understand.

I don't know that I really want to capture my breastfeeding thoughts here, as I know that medical complications make it difficult for all mothers to enjoy the simplicity of it. But I really feel I'd be cheating on motherhood if I didn't talk to myself about how fabulous the experience has been.

1) It is so much cheaper than formula. Thank goodness for that!
2) I just love it. I love how busy busy busy Reid can be all afternoon, but once it's time for his snack he settles right down into my lap. I love that he gets to lay in our bed every morning and snuggle up with us while he drinks breakfast into his belly. I even love that when he's really thirsty he starts snooping in my shirt (okay, double TMI there -- but it is so cute (and he's never done this in public -- too many distractions to care about thirst when we're outside the home), yup it's time to wean).

I've already started giving him a bottle at night, and bottle feeding definitely has its tender moments as well. He actually fusses if I breastfeed at bedtime because he can't see his dad, sitting across the way reading our bedtime story. Bottle feeding makes gazing at Dad possible, and I love that. It's such a good moment the three of us share.

Well, be prepared for lots of Reid posts as his birthday approaches!

Recipe of the Week: Chicken Thai Pizza

2011-09-30T09:31:00.000-05:00

The hardest part of recipe of the week will be remembering to take pictures of my dishes. Its already a circus trying to keep Reid calm while I prepare dinner. Now I have to add whipping out my camera to the routine? I had a lovely chicken taco recipe all typed up and ready to go, but then I realized recipes are pointless without a picture. So, for backup I'm taking this entry off my once-started-but-totally-failed recipe blog. It was one of only 2 recipes with pictures. Oops.

Chicken Thai Pizza, the birth story: long ago Ben and I decided our Friday night dates didn't have to include dinner at a nearby restaurant. It was a bold move, but a good one. Good for our budget, good for our quality of time together, good all around. Who knew snuggling up with each other, a box of red vines, and the cast of 30 Rock can be even more intimate than footsies at a side booth in California Pizza Kitchen (which I still mistakenly call California Pizza Chicken, or California Chicken Kitchen)? The sad part was, I knew if we only dined out once or twice a month we'd never choose CPK again. Sure they have good food, but the Crystal/Pentagon City neighborhoods had better dinning to offer.

This meant I had to come up with my own way to make Thai Chicken Pizza. We tried just buying the freezer aisle one at the store, but it wasn't nearly as good as the real thing. So, we decided to just read the ingredients on the back of the box and try making it fresh. Brilliant! This is so easy to make and tastes way better than the frozen kind and only slightly less better than the actual restaurant one.

Chicken Thai Pizza, the recipe:

Pizza dough (we just use a Pilsbury can, cause I'm terrified of making bread from scratch).

3 TB Peanut Sauce (found in the asian aisle of your grocery store)

Shredded Carrots (generous handful)

Bean Sprouts (generous handful)
1 chicken breast, cooked and cubed (I use really small pieces, usually just by tearing at the cubes, and I usually don't even use a full breast, this is a go-to skimpy-meat meal when our budget needs a squeeze)

1 1/2 cups low-moisture, part skim, shredded mozzarella cheese

5 or so steams of cilantro leaves, finely chopped

Basically just prep the oven however your pizza dough tells you to. Grease a baking (or pizza) sheet and then layer on all the ingredients in the order I have them listed, starting with the peanut sauce and ending with the cilantro. Cook until desired crust is achieved (Ben likes soft, I like crunchy...) and cheese is melted and a little bubbly (about 11 to 14 minutes at 400 will do).

It really is so easy, quick and cheap. We love it. I actually think Ben would tell you he prefers it to the one at the restaurant. I probably don't, just because the one at the restaurant requires no prep on my part :). I think we've added chopped up peanuts before too, and that adds a nice crunch.

Another way to make this a supper budget friendly meal, is to use up the rest of the carrots, bean sprouts, and other half of the chicken breast in a stir fry the following night. Just combine those left over ingredients with a couple scrambled eggs and some chopped brocoli crowns, toss it all in a stir fry sauce and pour it over a bowl of rice. We almost always have to two dishes one day apart (and at the end of the month, when my grocery budget is in the red). Enjoy take out style food right at home!

Back to School Speech

2011-09-28T15:29:00.003-05:00

In more stalkingmystudentsonfacebook news, this year marks Obama's third annual back to school speech. I couldn't have missed it if I had tried. One of my former middle school students currently attending Banneker High School (DC Public School's collegiate high) has been posting about it for days. Last night she went and got her hair done, just for the President's special arrival at her school.

This event reminds me of how furious some state educators were when Obama made his first back to school broadcast. If you remember, several school districts across the country ban the viewing. Some parents kept their kids home. If that isn't partisanship at its finest ... ! I actually think this whole stint bothers me more now, three years later, than it did back then.

I recently read an article about how Americans are becoming much more "nationalist" in their attire and lifestyle. If this is so (and it seems to be so) why would you work so hard to ensure your child does NOT hear the President of the United States of America telling kids to do their homework and stay away from drugs. How can you wave the flag of patriotism while showing such partisan-disrespect for our highest democratically elected official?

My head just gets dizzy when I try to understand some of my country men's logic.

In the end, I'm just happy for my former boss, Ms Hilton, and former students, Antonia and Annaise, for being able to meet the President today.

Following Up

2011-09-26T20:26:00.001-05:00

Every now and then I stalk my old students on facebook. I know, that is creepy but the things I learn are so rewarding.

One of my all time favorite students was pictured in the Washington Post recently. The article was about a White House advisor who came and spoke to about 100 Dunbar students. The 100 most outstanding students, that is. I was not one bit surprised to see Shafae there. She was so gorgeous and so grown up and I couldn't help but be excited for her successes in life.

I found out "the twins" are not only playing college football, but on such a good team (and such good players) they are part of the XBox game, NCAA 12. How would that be, to be a video game character? I'm also very proud of them, a college scholarship to play sports was always their big goal. The caption under their pictures of fame were things like "I'm so blessed" and "thanks to those who got me here."

I'm always reminded of the heartbreak as well. Ra'Heem's death. Meyka never went to college. And on and on.

One of the many posts I started and never finished was a rambling of "what I miss the most" about teaching. I'm only going to include this one paragraph. I think it captured my point pretty well.

I don't just miss teenagers in general. I miss having a set of students I feel a sort of stewardship over. I loved watching struggling readers grow in their confidence. I loved helping "nerdy" girls feel beautiful inside. I loved the off beat humor of rowdy boys, and making the whole class giggle aloud when I could keep up with them. These lines make me sound like I loved what I did for the kids, but that's not really it. I loved what they did for me. They made dealing with difficult supervisors a minuscule part of my day. They made working 12 hour days and only getting paid for 7 of them feel like a blessing. -- written 9/10/11

The amazing part is that the experiences I shared with them can still feel like a blessing, all these years later.

Recipe of the Week: Easy Winter Squash and Apple Bake (8 mos+)

2011-09-25T20:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry to disappoint my readers who have an actual palate, but today I'm just going to share my go-to baby food recipe. I'm so glad I found the site wholesomebabyfood.com. Otherwise I would have spent a fortune on processed baby food gunk. I still always have a couple store bought jars on hand (especially applesauces) but I really find it so much more time and cost efficient to make my own food.

You'll need:
1 winter squash (acorn or butternut)
2 baker's apples (a little tart), cored, peeled and diced
Generous handful of raisins
Sprinkle of cinnamon (or nutmeg)
Tinfoil
Ice cube tray

1. Preheat oven to 400.

2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Spoon out the seeds. Place skin side down in baking dish.

2. Fill the center holes with diced apple bits. Sprinkle cinnamon over apples.

3. Pour about two inches of water into the pan, so the squash is sitting in a bath of water (may also pour a little water in the holes so apples have moisture, but this is not necessary). Cover the dish with tinfoil and bake about 45 minutes (until skin is bubbling and flesh is easy to pull off from skin).

4. While the squash and apples are baking, soak a large handful of raisins in water (to soften).

5. Add raisins and squash bake to stand up blender and puree until desired consistency (may have to add reserved water, but I have never done so).

6. Spoon puree into ice cube tray compartments or other small containers. Freeze.

7. Once frozen you can place cube size servings (one ounce each) in a ziploc bag and keep up to 1 month.

This dish works great on its own for little babies or as a spaghetti/rice sauce for older babies. I've made it at least a half dozen times for Reid and he never tires of it. I love that I know there is some flavor in there (the squash smells so good coming out of the oven). Even more, I love that I know what is going into his belly, and its all healthy!

Check out wholesomebabyfood.com for more great ideas (if you have a baby at home, anyway).

Let's recap

2011-09-23T07:26:00.003-05:00

So there have been 3 GOP Debates so far this election season (which doesn't officially start until the end of September). Let's recap an event from each.

#1 When Brian Williams noted there had been "234 death row inmates" executed under Governor Perry's watch, the crowd offered the loudest applause of the night.

#2 When Wolf Blitzer asked Dr Ron Paul about healthy, uninsured 30-year-olds having medical emergencies, Paul implied the risk of death is one the man should take on his own, and not rely on government to intervene. When Wolf wanted to be more direct, he blatantly asked "But, Congressman, are you saying the society should just let him die?" Members of the Tea Party/Republican crowd cheered and even a very loud and distinct "YEAH" was shouted across the room.

#3 When a Gay soldier, currently serving in Iraq, was given an opportunity via camera to speak with the candidates, the crowd booed him (isn't this the party of support our troops you damn liberals or you're equal to the filth of terrorists? I suppose the new bumper stickers will read support our troops, except the gay ones, they should rot in hell).

For me, there are two very important take aways from all this.

Reality Number One: America is still a country full of hate. Prejudice and bullying are alive and well in "the land of the free" where "everyone is created equal."

Reality Number Two: I am a Democrat for many reasons, most of which I try to base in logic and sound political theory, but one of the biggest reasons I've always been a Democrat is simply that the Republican party is full of hate, greed, fear filled lies, and hate. After these last three debates, I've never been more proud to be a Democrat. Even with all my party's flaws, my heart keeps telling me I've made the right choice.

Six

2011-09-21T10:14:00.004-05:00

I have six started but never finished posts from the past couple of weeks. Why am I not a finisher?

Here's the one I want to most make sure finally gets a showing (even though it was already out dated when I started typing it the first time).

***************

I never mentioned mine and Reid's trip to Utah (over a month ago). But now I have a bunch of wedding and other festivity pictures I want to show off. So I guess I better get to journaling!

My sister-in-law Mel wasn't at the wedding, a long car ride or plane trip is pretty much out of the question when you are 37 weeks pregnant. But still, she's the one that edited the above photos and I think they turned out just fabulous. I love Reid's big wide eyes in that top one. I love the sweet look I'm giving his over-tired face in the second one. He was my boy that whole week long.

Aren't my brothers handsome? Growing up I always had to be suspicious of the excitement a few friends had when I invited them over for sleepovers. Between the boys in my neighborhood and the ones in my house, I knew I was surrounded by every little girls' dream. But as my last post said, it's what's on the inside of those four good looking faces that really counts. Matthew is one of the most selfless people I know. Jon has the biggest heart, he'd never let anyone hurt my feelings growing up. And Phil, the groom, there aren't good enough words in the world to describe how much I love him. He's still just the sweetest little baby brother I could have ever hoped for. My Dad's not too bad either, (wink wink). It still baffles me that we are all taller than both our parents. Little shrimps :)

Whenever I go home people always ask if I miss my parents old house. I'm surprised by how little I do. Their new place, in a town seven miles from my childhood streets, is their home. A house has little to do with home. In a way, their leaving Sutherland actually helps me romanticize it even more. Even if my kids were able to swim in the same ditches I did, and have Christmas snowball fights in my old front lawn, they'd never fully understand how wonderful it was to grow up there. Each time I return to West Millard County I see how barren and un-beautiful it really is. But Sutherland, Sutherland is still stunning. She takes my breathe away every time I return. It brought me pure joy watching one of my old childhood friend's daughter (and her friend) pop up and down in the ditches near my old Church house, just like we did when we were kids. No, my children will never understand how truly fabulous Sutherland is, but other kids will and that's enough for me.

One advantage to where my parents live now, is that for Phil's bachelor party we all just put on our suits, grabbed some towels, and walked right on over to the City Pool. It was a blast! My mom and I took the younger grandkids and left a little early, but as we were leaving the older kids were on the edge of the kiddie pool, looking across the deep end chanting "Phil, Phil, Phil" as he climbed the steps to the high dive. It was so cute to think about how cool they thought their Uncle must have been.

Later that night I found myself with my three brothers and Dad all in the kitchen doing dishes, just like we did out in Sutherland. My parents never had a dishwasher, and I think us kids were convinced doing dishes with dad was some sort of privilege. Fifteen years later and we were all still loving it. Sure, I was a little sad I couldn't gaze at Notch Peak in the distance, but I was once again reminded that "going home" has nothing to do with a house. Our conversation was a little more grown up (it was a wedding eve after all) but the flutterings in my heart were the same as when I was a little. I love time spent with my dad and my three brothers. Makes me feel like the most special girl in the whole wide world. In hindsight I realize our time spent together means my mother was the only one watching after 8 children, ages 6 and under. I wonder if she enjoyed that as much as we were enjoying ourselves in the kitchen?

I was able to see lots of old friends and lots of new babies. Growing up where "everybody knows your name" is such a blessing. No matter how different our grown up lives are, you always still care about those who helped shape you. And that makes getting together so much more rewarding and comfortable.

Seeing extended family members was another fabulous blessing. I have some of the greatest Aunts and Uncles in the world. It's crazy to watch them become the next generation of (cough cough) older people. My love for them swells even deeper as this process moves on. Cousins I haven't seen in ages were at the wedding reception with their little ones, and it was so fun to see them in their joy and happiness.

In the temple chapel, I remember turning to my dad and whispering "all your siblings and all your children are right here with you." He of course reminded me it would have been even better if his two missing children-in-law were present, but still a pretty spectacular sight.

The marriage sealing was fabulous. I'm so grateful for the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. I love knowing that my marriage isn't just a promise between me and Ben, but also our Father in Heaven. I know He promises husbands and wives eternal happiness if we abide by His standards. And the blessings for doing so are endless, even while on this Earth.

Life is so good.

Finally read The Help

2011-09-20T23:28:00.002-05:00

I knew I was going to have to stay up all night if I wanted to finish The Help in time for my book club! Fortunately, while cooking dinner I steam burnt my fingers so bad I had to sleep on the couch and soak my hand in ice water all night. That kept me up, kept me reading.

In the end I think my deepest reflection is simply my gratitude to my parents, and the way they raised me. I was never to think someone of lower socioeconomic circumstances or of a different shade or culture or religion was any sort of "other." We were all children of God.

Around my dinner table it was understood that people who come to this country from another have to work hard to start a new life here, just like my ancestors did a hundred plus years ago. We were taught to be intrigued by and respectful of traditions and beliefs that varied from ours. Unfamiliar heritage was beautiful, intelligent and part of what makes our world go round.

There was no "bring him home and I'll shoot him," but rather "I'd love a grandchild with gorgeous brown skin, and gorgeous black hair." Sometimes I worried it might break my mother's heart if we all married white and had little white haired, blue eyed children.

My upbringing left no doubt in my mind that we were all Children of a Father in Heaven, who loves us (who may even love the poor and humble a little more than He does the greedy and proud).

Racial slurs always made me uncomfortable. I never wanted to repeat, even rethink, the racial jokes I'd hear outside my home.

My family was far from perfect, and we had negative things to say about others, just like every family does. But I knew that negativity never had anything to do with what was on the outside of a person.

Just as Constantine told Skeeter, I knew its what's on the inside that make someone ugly, and my parents didn't even have to smash their finger to my forehead to teach me that.

Everyday I'm grateful for that gift. The Help just made me a hundred times more grateful. It would be an awfully long and lonesome life to learn that the hard way. A Terrible Awful Thing to never learn it at all.

Recipe of the Week: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

2011-09-14T22:51:00.024-05:00

I actually already put this recipe up once, over on my cooking blog. It's just so yummy I have to post it again. I really want to climb up on the rooftops and shout it out loud. I want to share it with everyone. Make it this weekend; it's a fabulous sunday dish (even Reid gobbled it up, he almost ate an entire half when we had "leftover lunch" on Monday).

I originally found it over on Pioneer Woman's blog. Did you know she is starting a show on Food Network now? I can't wait to check it out. However, she got the recipe from a guest blogger. If there is one thing I've learned from the recipe blog world it is that everyone steals everyone's recipes. So I feel totally legit doing the same.

Anyway, the recipe, as I follow it:

6-8 whole Portobello Mushroom Caps
Olive Oil
½ pounds Bulk Italian Sausage, Or Links With Casings Removed
2 teaspoons Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1 whole Onion
1 bulb Fresh Fennel
1 whole Bell Pepper, Any Color
3 stalks Celery, With Leaves
4 cloves Garlic
3 sprigs Rosemary
¾ cups White Wine (can Substitute Stock/broth)
½ cups Shredded Monterey Jack, Plus Extra For Sprinkling
4 slices Good Sandwich Bread, Toasted And Cubed
1 whole Egg, Lightly Beaten

1. Start by dicing up all those veggies. Put them in a medium sized mixing bowl as you go.
2. Preheat oven to 450F. Drizzle enough olive oil in the bottom of a glass baking dish to coat (if using 8 caps you will need two baking dishes, I use a standard casserole dish plus a bread loaf dish for the extra 2).
3. Start heating up a large skillet with a little bit of olive oil, over medium high heat. Brown the sausage with the crushed red pepper.
4. While the sausage is browning, wipe the portobellos clean with a damp paper towel and scrape out the gills with a spoon. Place portobello caps in the baking dish, top down, drizzle with oil, and set aside.
5. Add the veggies and garlic and rosemary to the skillet and saute with the sausage until crisp-tender, about 5 -7 minutes. (This is usually when I start toasting and cubing the bread)
6. Add the stock to deglaze the pan and allow to cook for another 5 minutes or so.
7. Stir in one handful of cheese and the bread cubes. The bread cubes should soak up whatever stock remains in the pan.
8. Taste it at this point, and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the beaten egg (this helps hold the mixture together, for easier stuffing). The stuffing mixture should seem a little wet.
9. Mound stuffing mixture into portobello caps. It’s ok to pack it down a little bit to make sure that it stays in place.
10. Sprinkle each cap with a little extra shredded cheese. Bake at 450F for 25 minutes, or until the portobello is tender and the stuffing is golden brown.

I don't have any pictures, unlike Pioneer Woman I'm not quick enough in the kitchen to stop at each step and snap a photo. Even if you are not a visual learner, I'd recommend following the link I posted above to see how she does each step.

I've made this so many times since we first tried it. The flavors really are divine. It's a time consuming dish (unless you are a kitchen pro) but nothing an amateur chef can't do.

Okay, I decided to steal her picture of the finale. I really want you to drool over this, because you will not regret trying it.

Post 9/11

2011-09-11T20:36:00.001-05:00

I don't know exactly where I was when I first heard the news. I honestly don't. I do remember meeting my NYC roommate near the shuttle stop, and she was frantic. I didn't understand what she was saying, not because I couldn't understand her, but because I had no idea what the Pentagon was or where the Twin Towers were. I should probably be embarrassed by that, but I'm not. I lived a dreamy-sheltered life, and I'm grateful to my parents for that.

When I reflect on 9/11, I don't typically think about where I was that day or how the news coverage affected me. Instead, I think about how we reacted, and how that reaction has shaped the world I belong in.

The Washington Post asked religious leaders around the world to share their thoughts on religion and the post 9/11 world. I most enjoyed Desmond Tutu's: Our post-9/11 failures. His words are spoken so well. He represents the thoughts of an educated, Christlike, non-American. He shows us how the world views and interprets our actions. Our post-9/11 failures.

The Kitchen Master

2011-09-08T21:38:00.002-05:00

Reid loves the kitchen. I've tried to bribe him with TV while I cook, but it just doesn't work.

Yesterday, while I was cooking his lunch, I stepped out of the kitchen area for a quick second. I'd left his cupboard open for him. What is his cupboard you ask? Well, a wise nurse practitioner told us to put all the kid safe things in one cupboard to make baby proofing easy. Brilliant. Reid loves his cupboard! As you will see below.

When I returned from my simple chore, I found this . . .

I'm still not really sure how or why he crawled in, but he was very content to stay in the skillet.

Kind of a perfect fit. What a goof!

Tonight, his entire dinner was finger foods. I like to let him feed himself a few things each day, but it's never a whole meal. These pictures really don't do it any justice, but I'm going to share a few too many of them anyway. So enjoy!

I love watching his chubby little hands put small food items in his mouth.

But just wait for it . . .

Yup, his arm was hiding the graham cracker, which was stuck to his shirt.

I guess it's just too hard to get everything, even some of the bigger items, in the hole.

With a little help, he discovered the missing dessert and started chomping away.

He's definitely going to have the Bassett crooked smile. Look at that mouth!

Here's a glimpse of the arm, face, and tray.

He even got some on the table, just imagine what the floor looked like!

"Alright Mom, I'm done with pictures.

Can I take a bath now?"

The boy loves baths. He didn't even mind floating around with rice, beans, corn, cilantro, onions, and crumbs. He and his ducky had a blast. He bawled pretty hysterically when it was time to get out.

Recipe of the Week: Summer Vegetable Lasagna

2011-09-07T20:52:00.001-05:00

So, weekly recipes was one of my "organizing" ideas. This will likely just make my blog even more jumpy. I know I'm kind of all over the place in my "style." But I've posted recipes in the past (usually just to demonstrate how ridiculous my sweet tooth is but); they always seem to be appreciated. Also, I never kept up with the recipe blog I started, so I figure I'll just do it all right on here. We'll see how this goes.

One last thing before I begin. Gotta give credit where credit is due, I stole the term (and idea for) recipe of the week from a DC friend. Her blog just seems so well put together, and I've really loved the recipes. Hopefully recipe of the week will have the same affect over here.

Now, onto the first recipe. Some things I love about summer vegetable lasagna: 1. one skillet = easy clean up (but if you are like me you are gonna stir some of the goodness right out of the pan and splatter stuff all over your stovetop), 2. yummy summer vegetables = cheap and healthy, 3. it looks pretty fancy pantsy when all done = you feel like a great home cook. I got the recipe from Mel's Kitchen Cafe, and she got it from America's Test Kitchen.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped fine
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 (28-oz.) can diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper
10 curly-edged lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch lengths
1 small zucchini, cut into 1/2 inch chunks
1 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2 inch chunks
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil
1 cup part skim ricotta cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Drain tomatoes into a 2-cup liquid measure. Add water to tomato liquid to make 2 cups. Add tomato/water mixture and 1 teaspoon salt to skillet.

Scatter noodles into the skillet, layer tomatoes over the noodles and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, covered, stirring occasionally (so the noodles won’t stick!) for about 10 minutes.

Stir in zucchini and squash, cook, stirring now and then, until noodles and squash are tender, about 8 minutes. Add basil and half of the rictotta cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese to the noodles, stirring until the sauce is creamy. Dollop remaining ricotta cheese over the noodles, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.

This one is my very own. Almost looks like pizza.

I've made this a couple times now, and we both really like it. The herbs and cheese make for good flavors, and the noodles and veggies are nice and hardy. You'd barely notice it is vegetarian.

DTR

2011-09-06T15:20:00.001-05:00

I feel like my blog and I need a good old fashioned DTR (determine the relationship). I'd imagine the conversation would go something like this:

As the blogger world dies, are you just going to turn me into a journal? Eeck, I never liked that idea. It works well for others, but it's not really us.

So can I continue being the place you scribble down all your crazy thoughts? Ugh, I want to tone down the crazy thoughts. They exhaust me at times.

Can you transform me into a place where you hone some of your long lost writing skills? Hmmmm. . . well the desire is there . . . but . . . I don't want to talk about this! Can we discuss something else?

What has become of us? Well, it kind of sounds like I want to break up with you. But I don't know if I can; I'll miss you too much.

What about all the categorizing you did? Weren't you going to organize things better so that you could post more consistently while broadening your scope without jumping all over the place? Yes, I had high ambitions. But that just set me up for failure, and then I got into this slump.

Hey! What do you know? This DTR actually did help me identify the root of my problem. Hmm, let's see if I really love this thing enough to fix it.

My Poor Husband

2011-09-05T22:43:00.000-05:00

He has the hardest time remembering people.

Last time we were at Target we ran into our next door neighbor and her daughter. He assumed they were someone we knew from the ward.

Tonight at Wal-Mart we ran into some people from the ward, and he assumed they were one of his clients.

What a goof he is. It's a good thing he brings me along when he goes out in public. Otherwise we'd have some serious bloopers on our hands.

On the small town note

2011-08-28T20:07:00.002-05:00

Tonight we had the Missionaries over. Naturally, one of them knows some Deltans. His sister married an Manis.

After some thinking, I came up with . . . "Is that Jared Manis' family?"

"Yup."

"Okay, I know who they are. They lived over in Hinckley. I played night games over there with them once. It was a lot of fun."

At this point Ben butts in, "Yeah, and the craziest part was when she looked up and said 'Ooooh, street lights.'"

Without stopping a beat I look at him all bright eyed and shout. "I know! I really was so impressed! It was kind of foreign to have bright lights up in the sky at night."

We both laughed so hard we almost cried. The missionaries probably thought we were drunk.

Oh, I love my street lightless childhood. Night games in Hinckley was like exploring a whole new world!

City Noise

2011-08-27T22:04:00.001-05:00

I loved the openness of Utah's roads. I loved the stars I saw at night.

Right now, I love the crickets outside my window.

But I also miss the noise of the city.

I just read an NPR article detailing the East Coast preparations for Irene. The writing was so perfect, I honestly felt the eeriness of NYC shutting down. Thinking about NYC finally having quiet streets and seeing dozens of pictures of Ocean City Maryland empty (a place I only ever saw totally packed) really makes me miss the bustle of city life. Sure, Oshkosh is a city. A good 70,000 people live here, but we live all spread out in suburbs and neighborhoods. No high rises. No buildings with constant flashing lights. No parks where there is always someone walking through.

I guess my final conclusion is just that I'm grateful I grew up with a 360 degree view of the world, nearly empty as far as the eye could see; only to later fall in love with concrete streets, surrounded by concrete walls, and covered with anthills of people.

Packing

2011-08-11T13:47:00.001-05:00

Motherhood changes lots of things about a woman. Some changes are more obvious than others, and some just really throw me for a loop.

Like packing. I use to LOVE packing (for trips to Utah or National Parks, or when we'd move apartments, any kind of packing). Light was a motto I prided myself on (and it never once failed me, we drove to DC with everything in (or on) our car). Packing days in advance was an other one of my strong points.

With Reid in the picture? The thought of packing light is out the window before I even take the suitcase out of the garage! I even pack heavier (is that really a term I can use for packing? it's opposite light . . . anyway I even pack heavier) for myself. My carry on doesn't just include three extra outfits for Reid, it also has one or two for me. Lately, he is better at puking all over anyone but himself, so this is necessary. You may even remember the last time we flew to Utah, and I changed outfits infront of several grown men.

Ok, this post is really pointless, except that it gives me one more reason to avoid the half packed suitcase sitting in the corner of my living room. I really really dread packing, something I use to love. I really had no idea kids changed such random little parts of your inner being.

Summers in the Midwest

2011-08-08T10:57:00.002-05:00

Shortly after marrying Ben, I learned summers in the Midwest are idyllic.

We've had a few miserably hot days, but for the most part every day is a great chance to venture outdoors. This weekend was no exception. Saturday was absolutely fabulous, and I don't have a single picture to prove it.

So close your eyes (but keep reading) and just imagine my adorable little boy giggling uncontrollably at a pen full of camels. He was seriously in LOVE with the camels we visited at the county fair petting zoo. Had I known we'd get into the petting zoo I would have packed a camera. All I really expected was a cheap county fair breakfast, we were still in the wee hours of the morning and the fair hadn't officially opened it's gates. Luckily, all the livestock barns (and petting zoo barn) were alive with activity. So we wandered around (for 1/4 the price of the fair) and had ourselves a gay old time. Fluffy fluffy rabbits, gorgeous horses, ginormous Holsteins, mini zebras, cuddly pigs, lazy tigers, and bright Tucahns were all just a portion of our findings. Around the farm animals, Reid was a little tense but still very happy, but once we got to the petting zoo all tenseness wore off and the kid experienced pure joy.

We came home and he took his morning nap. But once he arose we headed downtown Oshkosh for the weekly Farmer's Market. I LOVE Farmer's Markets. Fresh picked produce for half the cost of your local grocery store is just so exciting. Not to mention the crowd is typically more "hippie-ish" than you'd find at the grocery store. I just love the laid back atmosphere. After the market we headed to the library. I've mentioned before that the play area is perfect for Reid, and I love all the free baby books. Libraries are pure gold in my mind.

Finding ourselves at home once again, Reid took his afternoon nap. Upon awakening we all headed to our complex pool and swam, swam away. Outdoor pools always feel so relaxing at the end of a nice summer day. This one did not disappoint. We came home and BBQ'd some sausages and fresh corn and simply basked in the beauty of a Midwest Summer Day.

Yesterday was nearly as wonderful. Reid was so cuddly during Church (since he woke up at 4:40am and hardly napped before arriving). Late afternoon we went to a ward family's house for dinner (they had been to the farmer's market as well, and the fresh potatoes were yummy!). We ended the evening at our dear neighbors (elderly couple), picking some produce from their AMAZING garden. I just love chatting with the Kempers. They are as sweet as you could ever imagine a couple of 60 years. They have the wisdom of a well traveled life, the faith of a strongly rooted testimony, and the sincerity of the humblest creatures on Earth. I've decided Reid will adopt them as his own Great-Grandparents. I can't think of many blessings that would be greater for him to enjoy.

Here's why I didn't blog

2011-08-06T22:09:00.001-05:00

Cause all I could think about writing were these letters:

Dear President Obama,
Grow a pair already!!!!

Dear Harry Reid,
Who are you afraid of? Does Eric Cantor hide under your bed at night or something? How can I help you overcome your fear of leadership?

Dear Mitch McConnell,
Really, our credit rating is on the line and all you care about is making sure Obama looses in 2012? Are you happy now? Our rating has dropped and so has my faith in his leadership skills. Was that really so important to you?

Dear Mitt Romney,
If your actions spoke as loud as your words, I'd actually like you.

Dear Jon Hunstman,
I spent some time tinkering with the idea of supporting you, so could you please get serious about your presidential bid?
PS Get over how fabulously your ruled Utah, America is NOT Utah.

Dear Tea Party,
You realize you aren't the only people who live in the United States, right?

DEAR MR BOEHNER,
I LIKED YOU FOR THE SUM OF TWO DAYS. BUT YOU ARE STILL A LIAR AND I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU ALMOST TRICKED ME INTO THINKING YOU HAD MY BEST INTEREST AT HEART. YOU ARE A LIAR, A LIAR, A LIAR. QUIT LYING WHEN YOU SPEAK TO THE PUBLIC. QUIT LYING!!!

Dear Paul Ryan,
Was your last idea so bad they really made you shut up during this round of deficit talks?

Dear Rick Perry,
Say yes or no already. You make my stomach turn with fear.

Dear Jon Stewart,
I love you.

Dear Anthony Weiner,
I'm still mad at you, pervert. You were my next big hope.

Dear David Wu,
Really? Really?

Dear David Wu's constituents,
Really? Really?

Okay, I'm going to bed now.

Has it really been a week?

2011-08-05T14:33:00.000-05:00

I don't know why the blogger in me died. But she did.

Sorry to anyone who actually got use to and enjoyed my regular postings.

That's all.

I still haven't been fully revived.

For lovers of "baby stories"

2011-07-29T15:56:00.000-05:00

Before I had Reid, I'd casually sift through friends' birth stories. Some made me cringe, and I just couldn't finish them (and even after I had Reid I still couldn't get through one of my dearest friend's story). Others surprised me by how "detailed" they were. Overall, I was intrigued but never engaged.

Now, I love them. Can't get enough.

If you agree with those last sentiments (or happen to be a curious reader with a spare minute) go check out NPR's "Baby Project."

NPR put up an add of sorts on facebook, asking women due in the last half of July if they'd be willing to blog about their journey and share it with the NPR community. This stuff is a blogger heaven.

Though I haven't read all the entries, I've really enjoyed Lucy Peck (from Logan, UT). She's covered the most "normal" topics, but also ones that bring out peoples passions: medicaid, circumcision, natural delivery. In following Lucy I've acknowledged the bravery these ten women have for sharing their story. Lucy has been called selfish (for being on medicaid and WIC and for saying "nay" to circumcision) and the name calling also includes words like stupid, idiot (for planning a natural delivery and for saying "nay" to circumcision).

I'm sure she went in prepared to roll the comments off her back, but I still doubt that makes it any easier. People get too passionate about other's choices. It's kind of hysterical to wade through some of the comment threads. The Lesbian couple has likely taken more heat than Lucy. I didn't take an interest in their story and haven't really followed them. Most recently they wrote about their donor plan. Naturally, I'm curious as to how that all works, so I read the post. And I thoroughly enjoyed it (though it also made me uneasy at times). Mostly I enjoyed the hypocrisy of the commenters. One reader harassed NPR for not maintaining balance. I suppose his idea of fair and balanced means he's looking across the scale to see an exact replica of himself, balancing things out. I'd argue NPR having one lesbian among 10 women is pretty balanced.

Another writer that has intrigued me is Lateefah. She explored the complexity of name choosing, what a universal topic. Her most recent post warns someday-mothers about Angry Vulva Syndrome -- recovery from a vaginal delivery. That one was particularly fun for me to read.

The couple from Maine always focuses on how quaint their island town is. Another (the youngest mom) gave birth while her husband was away in Afghanistan. One couple is having twin girls, after adopting two boys. And there are more (that I haven't really gotten in to). As you can imagine, ten pregnancies can cover a lot of different issues. It's what some might call "balance," others call it propaganda.

It's been a delight to meet these complete strangers and laugh as they experience for the first time, things that totally rocked my world (Angry Vulva Syndrome and more).

If you have a spare second this weekend, I'd really suggest you check The Baby Project out.

Bye Bye Shrimps

2011-07-28T08:36:00.000-05:00

I think I'm going to have to keep taking Reid to the Y pool each week. He really loves swimming, and I don't want him to lose that comfort he's gained from class.

Last night was one of the most fun evenings I've had with my boys, ever. On the last night of classes (there was a 3 to 5 year old class going on at the same time, and a class for two autistic brothers) the instructors turn on the slide. This is the biggest indoor pool slide I've ever seen. It's serious water park material. The last 15 minutes of class are always play time, but play time with the slide on is just what the kiddos wanted. Both big kids and little kids. Seriously, the moment our teacher said she was going to go turn on the slide, Ben was out of the pool climbing the ladder. Naturally, I was a little nervous, but I wasn't going to stop Ben from taking Reid down. Reid's his son too (I have to remind myself of this often).

Words can't describe the cuteness on my boy's face when they came out of that slide. Reid was a little shocked and confused, but Ben was ADORABLE! I actually think I heard him "Weeee!" as they hit the water. Their second time down Reid seemed a little more relaxed.

I have to chuckle. Ben only came swimming (as in, in the pool) with us twice. He came for the class where we dunked the babies and the class where they opened up the slide. Seriously, it's like he called ahead. Talk about perfect timing (for all three of us).

As for the report card, my mother must have missed the most important line in my last post:
On the surface, I'm not as bothered by (the report cards) as I may sound, but down in my core, I'm deeply disturbed.

I know that explanation makes no sense, so I see why she over looked it. Of course the report card doesn't really bother me. Whatever. It's just, well, it's one of those things that causes my left eye brow to connect with my hairline.

The card was really just a check list of the skills we practiced. They use the same card for three different classes (6 mos to 5 years) and Reid had all but two skills marked off, so clearly he is doing well. I just think the whole concept of constantly "evaluating" children under say, 10-years-old is a little ridiculous. Sadly, he didn't graduate. They recommended we take shrimp again, but let's be honest . . . that's just cause they want us back in the fall and he won't be old enough for the next class.

I definitely think swim classes will be a summer tradition for our kids. At least until they are old enough for some T-ball.

I don't like Report Cards

2011-07-26T09:07:00.000-05:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed our YMCA shrimp swim class. Reid rarely fusses and has eagerly been a part of each class activity. He's been dunked. He's floated lazily with the support of a life jacket. He loves to crawl after balls in the shallow pool or kick and reach for floating toys in the deeper pool.

I remember his first pool experience. He shivered from the cold and refused to venture off on his own. He sat snuggled up next to me and watched all the other kids play. Later, in Cleveland, he cried and panicked each time we put him in the water. I can see clearly how the swim class has made him a stronger swimmer. Sure, he's only 9 months old, but the steps toward bravery are enormous.

That, is the success I feel from the class. Reid now enjoys pooltime. Yeah!

Tonight I was shocked to find out that on Wednesday, our last class, the kids will each be given a report card.

Seriously? Babies need report cards in order to ~~finish off~~ graduate from their swim class? On the surface, I'm not as bothered by this as I may sound, but down in my core, I'm deeply disturbed.

Why does our society find it necessary to "grade" the level of all our achievements? Why can't shrimp swim class just be a fun little swim class, where mom and baby can both gain confidence in the water?

Why isn't Kindergarten just a safe environment where children can learn to follow the rules, be an active part of a community, and maybe master their colors and shoe laces? Why do we insist they begin to read and add and sit still for minutes on end?

The teacher in me is bursting to come out; I could go on and on about how horrible report cards are, how grades tell parents little about their child's ability or intellect. But I'll spare you the dramatics, let's just focus on the fact that my infant will be evaluated for a skill some adults lack.

I'm sure the report card will be all cute and "feel good," but that doesn't stop it from bothering me. Where are all these over achievers who demanded their baby be assessed for their agility in the water? The whole concept of giving report cards to infant swimmers had to start with someone. I wonder if they wanted class rank included as well. Probably.

I want to take all these up tight parents snipe hunting. They'll only pass my class if they cook me a snipe for dinner. That ought to teach em!

Proof is in the Pudding

2011-07-22T20:11:00.000-05:00

Remember when I said he loves the dishwasher?

The back story to this picture: I was trying to do the dishes, when Reid just kept coming over and interrupting my groove. To distract him, I tossed the teaspoons out into the living room and like a good puppy he eagerly retrieved them. Well, as you see, he put the teaspoons in his mouth and came right back over (like a good puppy). I finally just picked him up and hauled him over to Ben. I think the rest just explains itself.

The boy is in LOVE with the dishwasher.

OneRepublic

2011-07-21T22:29:00.000-05:00

I'm always amazed by music's power to play with your emotions. I just caught an "I'm loving Wisconsin" vibe, and I really think it's because I have OneRepublic blaring in the background (really, it's right in my ear so maybe the frontground). OneRepublic kind of reminds me of training for triathlons, but lately it reminds me more of Cougar Town. So whenever I listen to it, I have to be happy. Oh ABC Wednesday night, I miss you. Cougar Town is fabulous, despite the name (which it's creators have gladly started making fun of).

Anywho. Let me share a little Wisconsin love with you all.

Earlier this week, the first recall election was held. The Democrat won. Oh wait, this wasn't going to be about politics. Clears throat, it's hard to ignore that here in Wisconsin. Like crazy hard. I feel like it's been election season since the week we moved in. One of many reasons to love the Badger State.

The Rails to Trails program is another reason. The state turned old, unused railroad lines into nice bike, hike, and horse ride (and snowmobile during the winter) trails. They are so gorgeous! I for one won't complain that our state tax dollars paid for this program. It employed people who needed jobs, and now we have wonderful (very low maintenance) trails at our disposal every Sunday afternoon.

Can you find Mr Spider?

I'm constantly amazed by the amount of water in the area. The city is surrounded by three or four large lakes. Our neighborhood has a nice pond (nearly all neighborhoods do). And this natural pond is along one of our favorite rails to trails spots. Water supports so much wildlife. It's amazing to just walk along the edge of this pond and see all the birds, bugs, and plants.

It has been so hot here lately, but that just makes me love summer. It really hadn't felt like summer until this heat wave clobbered us.

Okay, so I'm going to bombard you with more pictures from our latest walk on the trails. But before I do so, I'll just share a couple more reasons I'm in a "love Wisconsin" mood right now (it's running dry tho, cause OneRepublic is over).

The people here are so friendly! Really wonderful.

The ward members have been very sincere in their welcoming. It's fun to get to know the different families.

I started "working" again. I may explain this a little more later. It's not a real intense job. Just a couple hours a week I can do at home. But I love it. I'm just the type of person who needs some sort of challenge like that to keep me going. Motherhood is obviously a time consuming challenge all on it's own, but I've just always known that as much as I want to stay at home with my little ones, I'm the kind of person who needs a paid job (even a small one) to keep my motivation levels up. Which is weird, cause I could care less about the money. I don't really know how to explain it and I can feel myself beginning to talk in circles. So I'll just stop and say I'm so thankful for the opportunity, especially considering the woman I'm working for just approached me about the job. She's been so kind to tell me how good she felt about me from the moment we first met.

On to all the pictures. It may seem a little crazy I put up so many of (essentially) the same picture, but I know my parents still won't feel like it's enough. The rest of you will just have to deal with it!

Care to pick a favorite?

Reid Time

2011-07-20T15:11:00.000-05:00

I took Reid in for his nine month well child check up yesterday, so the urge to post his stats and his milestone updates has overwhelmed me in the last 24 hours. I also think I could write a great post about how I accidentally threw water all over myself in the waiting room. How does one accidentally throw water on them self? Well, with the level of coordination I have anything is possible. Or, I could post about the apparent sign on my backside that says "Hey old men, are you lonely? I'll be your friend!" I guess I'll save those last two for another day and just bombard you with Reid trivia.

He weights 23 lbs and 14.4 ounces, bringing him back into the 90th percentile.
He is 30 and 3/4 inches long, keeping him in the 98th+ percentile.

His two bottom teeth came in shortly after his 6 month mark. The middle top two have been puffy and swollen since the end of our July 4th vacay. They cracked through about a week ago and are finally making their way down. I swear those two teeth are slower than cold tar! They are so slow they've actually waited long enough to come in with neighbors. Yup, yesterday I noticed two more teeth are making their way down. I can't believe he is going to have four front teeth any day now.

Crawling marked the beginning of the mischievous stage. Learning to crawl was quite the process. First he'd just get up on all fours and rock back and forth, trying to master balance. Then he started pushing down on his hands while pushing off with his feet. The result was a backwards crawl, funny for us, frustrating for him. Finally, he figured out the army crawl. I don't really blame him for coping out. It'd be hard to lift a belly that big! The weekend my parents came to stay with us was the weekend he really started taking steps on all four. Since then there has been no stopping him!

Reid loves climbing. He doesn't cruise yet; he just spends all his energy pulling himself up. Once up, he wants to keep moving up! I don't even think he has realized he could move from side to side. Up, up, and up is all he is interested in.

In these photos he was after that ball. Once he realized he was stuck under the chair he decided to just make the best of it. Instead of getting too scared or fussy he just practiced his pull ups! What an optimistic boy.

He definitely doesn't feel like a baby anymore. I take him to the park almost everyday. He loves the baby swing, and there is a little rocking toy he can sit in as well. Mostly, he loves watching the other little boys play (we've only once seen a girl, and she was leaving as we arrived).

Swim lessons are a hit! He didn't love the pool while we were on vacation over the fourth, so we were really surprised by how much he loved swimming in his Y class. He splashes through most of the class, and he loves "swimming" after toys. He's not at all afraid to float (supported) on his belly. His back makes him a little more tense, but he still does it without a whimper.

We're in the middle of a big heat wave so today's activity was the library. He LOVED the puppets. I think I may have to invest in some. He also enjoyed exploring the little kid area. I understand why they don't have read aloud's or other library sponsored activities for kids under 2, but I really wish they did! I'm all about getting Reid (and mostly myself) in those habits early on. For now tho, playing with just me will have to do.

He is NOT a picky eater. Most the food I offer him is homemade. Homemade baby food is so EASY and so CHEAP! I can't image doing it any other way. We turned a handful of raisins, two apples, a butternut squash and a sprinkle of cinnamon into 15 days of lunch. He loves it. We've started a lot more finger foods. Which he also loves. Cherrios are the only way I get the dishes done in the morning. He's so content to just fist those into his mouth while I clean the kitchen up. Did I mention the dishwasher is his favorite thing in our house? No lie. If he is anywhere on the floor when I open that thing up he'll just start shrilling and in a matter of seconds he's loading himself onto the bottom rack. I'm not sure how it caught his eye, but they have a pretty deep love. He also loves to watch the laundry spin around when the (front load) washer first starts.

Ben's getting pretty excited to see what sort of little boy things he gets into. Animals? Dinosaurs? Cars? All of it? Ben was also sweet enough to go through a list of names kids will use to make fun of him. Reidtarded has floated around here ever since. Oh, the things Ben does when I'm not supervising him.

Well, that update ought to satisfy the Grandparents. Hopefully we'll see Ben's parents in the next couple of weeks. Thanks to all the airplanes that come to Oshkosh next week, we know we'll at least see Grandpa. Then in August Riedtar... (nope, I won't do it) and I are going to UT for Phil's wedding. We can't wait! I hope he's as good a traveler as he's proven in the past!

The Toy Basket

2011-07-17T21:08:00.000-05:00

One night Ben came home and found a mess. The laundry was folded and in the basket, but hadn't found it's way to Reid's drawers. His toys were scattered all about. And of course, the Prince himself was likely drooling all over the place.

So Ben just gathered everything up and put it in the basket!

I love this picture. It's like "hey wait, if all my toys are burying me, there aren't any left to put in my mouth!"

Saved by my favorite fingers!

I love my little bubby!

Ignorance is bliss

2011-07-15T13:29:00.001-05:00

When it comes to illness, ignorance can be bliss.

I'm pretty sure my little boy has had a stomach virus the last couple of days, but he's been so calm and collected about the whole thing that it's gone virtually unnoticed.

He's always been a spitter upper, so I've just been scrubbing puke off my carpet like it's no big deal, just a daily occurrence. Obviously, I wish I had been more aware of his discomfort, but in the end I recognize no harm no foul.

My ignorance means I didn't spend the last 36 hours worrying about his health. I've just let him continue on as usual. This remedy probably made his bout with the virus more enjoyable for both of us.

Breaking the routine

2011-07-14T21:28:00.001-05:00

The other day at Church, Ben showed me a quote from the LDS family resource site that said it is healthy for families to take a break from their routine. It was a not so subtle hint.

I guess I'm kind of a routine nazi. I spent the first three months of Reid's existence trying to figure out a routine that would work well for Reid, and once I found it I've dug my nails in pretty deep. His routine just makes my life so much easier. He's happier, and I know what to expect. It's a dream.

So imagine how pleased I was when a break in the routine turned out to be it's own pleasant dream. The advice from LDS family services is absolutely correct. No surprise there. Our extended weekend getaway to Cleveland, OH was the vacation time remedy we all needed.

Ben took work off early on Thursday so we could head down to Rockton, IL where his parents live. His sisters watched Reid for us and we were able to go out for burgers and a quick nature walk to celebrate our anniversary (eve). We sure enjoyed ourselves! These same fabulous ladies had already spent the week preparing car games and snacks for our journey. Early Friday morning we took off, and within an hour it was pretty obvious Ben was going to win the truck hunt game. It was also obvious I was going to gorge myself on trail mix. Road trips.

It's about six hours from IL to Cleveland, and Reid was a PEACH! He stuck to our routine pretty well. We made silly faces at each other and played with some toys, until he was tired and fell asleep. Then he'd wake up and we'd pull over at a rest stop for stretches, (adult) potty breaks, and his feeding. I really was so impressed by how well he traveled. There were short moments of boredom (ie fussy shrills) but he really was so easy.

I won't chronicle our whole trip, since we've been back for more than a week now and vacation hangover is gone. But I will overload you with pictures. Enjoy!

Jazella is just two days older than Reid (really, only about 30 hours older).

They were so cute to watch "play" together.

Confession: I absolutely love this picture

(maybe cause it's one of only a few where he doesn't have something (mostly his fingers) in his mouth).

Before our trip I was thinking "Reid doesn't fall asleep in my arms anymore."

It was kind of nice to "break" that routine. And easier to fix than I feared.

Pool Fun:

Ben deserved this, and played along nicely

The Szilagyi crew:

Lauren, Jessica, Jazella, Katie, Me, Ben, Reid, Carol, and Rick

America's Birthday Activities

(Picture of Parade with Mara goes here,

someday)

BBQ

Baggo

Patriotic attire

Firework show

Fixing the Family Budget

2011-07-13T15:26:00.000-05:00

As an adult, I've never really enjoyed writing fiction. I only feel confident writing what I know, thus the birth of this blog. But today, I want to give fiction a shot. Meet the Patrick family:

Somehow, the Patrick family found themselves steep in debt. A big house payment is about to come up, and they have no way of paying it. The leaders of the family feel financial ruin on their fingertips.

Each parent has been avoiding the problem for years. Awhile back, Mama Patrick tried to stop her husband from applying for a new credit card, but he shook his finger at her and told her, her frugal efforts were ruining the family image. He needed the card to purchase an alarm system to protect the house they couldn't afford, how dare she try and stop him. In essence, she was jeopardizing their safety. The blame was more than she could bare; she lost the courage. Even worse, a year or so later she herself took out a new credit card. She used hers to buy some of their less popular children new clothes and other things she felt would help them find part time jobs. Maybe if they could stand up on their own feet, the family situation would brighten.

But now it's come to a point where the problem must be solved. The bills must be paid. So husband and wife join each other at the kitchen table, ready to talk about possible solutions.

"Susie has enough of her own money saved up to pay for her cheer team expenses. Maybe we should stop helping her and let her pay for it herself?" Mama Patrick suggests.

Her husband responds with a fierce "No!" He explains his rationale, "When she began cheer we told Susie we would help her, and even though she has the money to be on her own we need to keep helping her. After all, having a daughter as head cheerleader reflects well on my image with our wealthier neighbors. We must continue to support her."

Mrs Patrick expected this much from her husband. She knows Susie is his favorite child. Reluctantly, she concedes. There are other things she can get Mr Patrick to agree on. Reading her mind, he asks, "How else can we cut back?"

"Maybe we could stop eating out as much. Or we could stop letting our leftovers go to waste, instead we could pack them for our lunches the next day." She pauses, to think of more wasteful spending. "We really only need one vacation, not two. We could cut back there." Her husband seems satisfied, but she knows she needs to offer up more sacrifices. "Well, Thomas didn't grow at all this last year. I suppose he doesn't really need new school clothes. He can wear the same ones he wore last year. And I don't need to visit the Dr anymore. My breast cancer is all cleared. I'm sure it won't flare back up. We can save if I stop going to the Dr for my check ups. Vanessa doesn't really need braces. Her smile is just fine the way it is. I'm sure there are other sacrifices we could make. Timmy could wait till he's 20 to go to college. He doesn't need to go right at 18."

Mr Patrick likes what he is hearing, he's felt for a long time that some of the more burdensome members of his family could cut back on their excess living. They don't need to live like he and Susie do. "Well, when can we get all this started?" he asks.

Mrs Patrick hesitates, "Well, I'm willing, and the kids are willing, to make these sacrifices honey. It's just that," she stumbles a bit, knowing this next part will upset her husband, "Well, ever since you stopped working 40 hours a week we've . . . you see, we just don't think your working 30 hours a week is financially sound. We think you should go back to 40 hour work weeks. We lived better off your 40 hours." At the sound of this, her husband stands up and begins to leave the room. She quickly grabs his hand. Desperately hoping he'll listen to her rationale.

"If we have more money coming in we could use it to pay off debts. We just need the same amount of money we had coming in a few years ago, before all this debt trouble started. Look we'll all agree to stop spending so much, but we want to know you'll make your own sacrifices. We need to work on this together."

But it's of no use. Mr Patrick has already walked out of the room. He promised himself, and his country club buddies, he'd never work 40 hours a week again. He intends to keep that promise, no matter the damage it inflicts on his family.

The problem is, he doesn't have a good back up plan. He doesn't know how to hide everything he owns from the repo man. He'll just leave the whole sticky situation up to his wife. He knows she'll do anything necessary to save the family, even if it ruins her life. As long as it doesn't ruin his, he could care less.

Mr Patrick has until Aug 2nd to prove what kind of family man he really is.

Oh Dear Malaysia

2011-07-10T22:11:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure how I missed the big ugly Malaysian protest in all my news hunts yesterady. Apparently dear sweet Malaysia's capitol city had a fit of furor Saturday morning (Friday night for us).

I read somewhere the other day that Mormon Missionaries become a sort of unofficial ambassador for the countries' they serve in. So as an unofficial ambassador for Malaysia I just wanted to bring THE CONFLICT to your attention. I obviously understand very little about Malaysia's political situation. Though I couldn't (and actually didn't really want to) talk to citizens about their country's political turmoil, it was impossible to ignore the deeply rooted class struggles and the racial and religious divides that structured neighborhoods. After studying colonial and post colonial English Literature for three years at USU, living in Malaysia was like finally understanding everything I'd been learning.

Even though I don't like the artificial emotions the Avatar sound bites add, I do think the below YouTube creator used the best images and timeline of the day's events. I'm startled by how evil the police look in some of the early, anticipatory snapshots. I love that Malaysians gathered in cities all across the world (and wish I could have joined those in DC) to unite against unfair democracy. And as much as I hate the violence, I'm so pleased to see all of Malaysia's racial groups present. If prejudice was Malaysia's weakness, diversity was her strength.

I don't really have anything else to say, other than a gentle reminder you may want to tune out the "voices" in this clip (though the parallel makes me want to finally watch Avatar).

The End

2011-07-09T16:15:00.001-05:00

Here's the last of the anniversary posts. Questions 15 and 16 are meant to bring everything up to date.

15. Kids: do you have any yet; if not, when do you plan on having them; how many do you want; tips on good/bad birth control?
16. Most recent picture of you and your significant other and what you love most about them, and closing thoughts.

Oh how I love this baby boy!

As I am sure most readers know, we had our little Reid last October. He was a much anticipated little dream. After four years of married life, we were ready for him! Actually, after a year and a half of married life we were ready for him, but I'll get to that later. I want four kids. I've always wanted "at least four, no more than seven." Now that I've delivered and begun raising one, four sounds like a good number to stop at. I'd consider adopting a fifth. Ben though, he sometimes jokes he doesn't want any (we can sell Reid to the circus). I think he just says this so I'll know what a sweet and selfless gift letting us get to "at least four" will be. I guess we'll get to three and "see" about the last one (or two). Who knows though, maybe Reid will be the only one, and maybe we really will sell him to the circus.

Originally I cut out the last part of question 15. Who wants to know about birth control? But then I thought, I might as well take the chance to get on a soap box. Not so much about birth control (what do I care . . . use what suits you best), but about family planning (which in essence IS birth control). Up on my box: Don't be fooled by all the teenagers who get pregnant, getting pregnant is actually pretty hard. An NPR article I just read sited numbers according to Center for Disease Control and Prevention. It's ugly; more than 7 million women in the US have trouble getting (or staying) pregnant. And think of all the women who never even actually try, they obviously aren't represented in that number. Sure, I know some Fertile Myrtiles who seem to just think about getting pregnant and magically deliver a baby within the next 12 months. But the average "trying to get pregnant" timeline is 7 months. Most Drs won't even see you until you've tried for over a year. That said, my soap box is simply that getting pregnant rarely works how you plan it. Obviously, I know bringing life into the world works on a more important timeline: our Heavenly Father's. But for those couples reading this who think they may want a baby in the next year or two, I'd suggest start trying now, or at least stop not trying. It could easily take you a year of birth control free lovin' to even figure out you can't get pregnant, and then another year to figure out why, and another to find the solution. Sigh, exhaustion.

Okay, stepping down off the soap box. Onto a picture of Ben and I and what I love most about him (which feels like an impossible task right now).

Sadly, this is probably the best picture of the three of us.

We don't have many to choose from.

I need to fix that, pronto.

I love how compatible Ben and I are. We both have pretty unique humor. We are both pretty passionate about politics and world affairs. We love nature and would spend our whole lives visiting national parks if we could. We both enjoy reading. We both chose public interest careers. I love to learn, he's brilliant. I get easily flustered, he's calm and level headed. I love cooking new foods, he loves trying them (even when they're bad). I'm social and remember faces and names, he doesn't. I remember life events we've shared, he doesn't. Neither of us are super naturally athletic, but we both like to be active. He's helped me try new physical challenges and I've tried tirelessly to teach him the basics of ESPN primetime sports like Basketball and Baseball. All in all, I'd just say he really is my better half and I his. We both bring out each other's strengths and strengthen each other's weaknesses. So I guess that is what I love most about him. Kind of broad, but a great catch all.

That is THE END folks. I'll say it again, I've really had fun answering these sixteen questions. It's healthy to occasionally just sit back and gush about your love life. Exercises your heart.

Debt Ceiling

2011-07-08T09:31:00.001-05:00

I know many of my readers aren't as in love with news and global affairs as I am. And I should clarify, news like the Casey Anthony trial doesn't capture my attention, at all. News like the US debt ceiling does. And though I'm sure the Anthony trial was entertaining and theatrical to say the least, the debt ceiling is what we all should actually be tuned in to. Why? Well, Casey Anthony goes free and my life continues as usual. The debt ceiling gets blocked and the whole world of economics shatters. So naturally I ignore the pop culture phenomenon and follow the story that is actually important to the way I live my daily life. The story that as a US citizen, I'm a part of.

So to catch everyone up to speed, our current debt limit, as set by congress, is $14 trillion. Ugh. That's Ugly. Who would even question raising it? That's ridiculous. And yes, on the surface, that is ridiculous.

The reality however, is more complex than the surface. The reality is if we don't raise the debt ceiling we will have no way to pay soldiers, and no way pay health care bills for impoverished children and elderly citizens on medicaid and medicare, and perhaps most importantly we will struggle to pay back loans we've taken from foreign countries like China, the UK, Brazil, etc.

Naturally, the battle in Washington continues. I'm sure you can guess who is on what side. The Republican led congress currently refuses to raise the debt ceiling if tax revenues are increased. Democrats have offered to give up $4 trillion in spending, but only if the Republicans let them end tax loopholes and tax breaks on wealthy Americans and American corporations -- a move that would increase tax revenue by roughly $1 trillion.

Quick recap: Dems are willing to give 4 dollars so long as Reps will give 1. Seems like a good bargain for Republicans, right?

So why are the refusing to take it?

Politics.

Republicans want to make the current Administration (Obama and the Democrats) look irresponsible and incapable of leading America out of the debt crisis. They want to make it look like Obama is a big spender who doesn't care about the debt ceiling. On the surface, the strategy seems to work. Casual onlookers fall for the lies and deceptions. The Republicans' problem (as I see it) is that all the reliable, conservative leaning sources I've studied understand the big picture well enough to blame this current fiscal recklessness with Republicans.

Here are a few facts I've found that go ignored by congress while they use this debate to create a world sense of financial insecurity (stocks have increased drastically and will continue to do so until there is a compromise; unemployment has also gone up this summer, when congress plays these sort of political games they make investors uncertain of their future).

Fact number 1: Under the Bush administration, with a Republican led congress, the national debt ceiling was raised 7 times. SEVEN times. That's basically once per year. It was an increase of over 100 percent. He more than doubled the debt. Ragaen's tenure looks very similar. Seven increases, more than doubled the debt, the only difference is he had a split congress. Obama on the other hand has only raised the limit once, and that was during his first few months in office when he signed off on bailouts that originated under Bush's exit. With the plan he proposes the debt limit will never have to be raised again. He, as Clinton did, puts us back on track.

I guess that is really the only fact I want to share. The others are things I have mentioned already. Like, fact number 2: if we default we will loose clout as a global super power, and our world standing will never recover. Basically, we'd look like Greece, and when was the last time the Greeks were a super power? Ask yourself, how much respect does Greece seem to have right now?

Fact number 3: soldiers and hard working citizens will be the ones who suffer, the ones who have to shoulder the burden. Not politicians, not Wall Street. Us, we will suffer; our recession will worsen.

That last fact is why I spend Reid's nap time pouring over the Politico, the Economist, the NYTimes, NPR and the numerous resources they send me to. I could care less about Casey Anthony. Maybe she is a murderer, maybe she isn't. I'm not going to throw a stone at her; I'll let God sort that one out. As for our political crisis, that's something we're leaving up to our elected officials to sort out. Crap.

Honeymooners

2011-07-07T11:40:00.001-05:00

Call me stubborn, but I really want to finish this little wedding anniversary game I started. While on vacation in Cleveland I realized this extended trip down memory lane actually had a healthy impact on my marriage. I'd recommend unabashedly responding to the game questions to any one.

So today, I'll visit questions 12 and 14 (like how I always just edit things to fit my desires?).

12. Honeymoon: where'd you go?

14. First place you lived together: pics if you have them

Ben and I didn't have the typical definition of honeymoon: beach getaway while hungover on wedding bliss. We were married on a Saturday, and spent that night and Sunday night at the Anniversary Inn downtown SLC. We had to head back to Logan Monday morning because Ben was enrolled in summer school classes. He did this so we could graduate together the next Spring.

The next weekend we flew out to Chicago (for a backyard open house in Rockton, his hometown).

We went to the Field Museum and saw Sue.

We also went to a White Sox game with my family, who flew in for the open house. That night we stayed in the nicest hotel room we will ever have the pleasure of staying in. Or maybe it was just newly wed bliss, but it seemed real fancy pantsy.

The first place we lived was a cheap-o studio apartment just off campus in Logan. We loved our young married student ward. We loved campus life as a couple, the whole experience really changes once you are married. Ben worked on law school applications and spent a week visiting different campuses he'd been accepted to. He also worked at the library. I worked at the Buckle and tutored student athletes in English and Psychology. I also did my student teaching.

We LOVED Logan. I can't imagine any University being more picturesque than Utah State. Some things we did that first year there that I don't want to forget are:

Rented an ORC canoe and explored the wetlands out West with Katie. We also attempted to canoe across porcupine dam for a primitive camping spot, but we tipped over instead. Can't forget that memory!

We took plenty of hikes around Hyrum and Logan canyons.

We goofed off on campus and were involved in the students-together-ending-poverty (STEP) program

We didn't let winter weather stop us from exploring the canyons during the winter. I miss ORC rentals. Snowshoeing is awesome times 200.

Ben shaved himself a creepy mustache and we graduated. Yipee!

The summer after graduation is what really felt like our honeymoon. We were kind of hobos for a few months. We didn't want to keep renting in Logan, our jobs didn't pay enough for that to really be worth it. But we definitely weren't ready to move out to DC in May. So we just bummed off our parents and lived out of our car for two months. It was pure pleasure.

Fishing in Canada

Smoching at Niagra Falls

Touring all around Yellowstone and Tetons backyard.

Hiking through Bear country.

And camping in the backcountry.

Don't forget, gaining 20 lbs! I mean, visiting Great Basin's heartland.

During our first year of marriage we also visited Zions, so we kind of joked we saw more National Parks in just a few short months then Ben had seen in his whole life. That's what Utah living does for ya'. It's good for the soul.

A break

2011-07-06T14:06:00.001-05:00

Our little family tagged along with Ben's big family for the holiday weekend.

Thus, I didn't get to finish the last two days leading up to our anniversary.

But I'll tell you what, it is so nice to leave "technology" behind. I used my phone twice, checked facebook once (via Ben's phone), and that's it!

Now that is what I call vacation.

Once I clean up enough to put Reid's new favorite toy (our suitcase) away and finish updating all other aspects of "technology" (bills, budget, the news, etc) that also went ignored . . . I'll get back into the blogger world.

Thoughts on marriage

2011-06-30T07:39:00.001-05:00

When I first read through these questions number 13 was the one I was least eager to respond to. Each day, as my list gets shorter and I feel this one coming up, I sense a sort of drag. Bleh, I don't want to ramble about marriage. I can't organize those thoughts. Hardest part? YIKES, going down that road could get ugly.

Then, I had a wonderful, porch sitting morning. One where the weather in the shade requires a light sweater, but no shoes. One where a General Conference Ensign is in hand. One of those perfect mornings when you can't organize your thoughts, so the Prophet of God does it for you.

I'm ready for you now question number 13! Give me your best shot!

13. Thoughts on marriage: what is the easiest/hardest part, if you could change anything, what would it be?

First, I wouldn't change anything. Does this mean we've had a perfect marriage . . . far from it. Ben's had to deal with more than any man's share of crazy. And I often demand aspects of righteous living that I myself am not willing to live up to. Do I wish we hadn't had some of those (crazy) struggles or some of those (be a better person!) fights? Of course! I'd love it if I could control my temper and keep my mouth shut; we'd both be happier if some of those painful words had been kept bottled in.

But that's life. And I doubt I would have enjoyed President Monson's most recent Priesthood session talk if I didn't understand the struggles of marriage.

So in an effort to share some of my thoughts on marriage, I'll just highlight some of my markings from his talk, and maybe even try to explain why they strike me so.

The talk drew me in with this image "What do I deal with every day that causes me to weep sometimes late into the night?" The service God's prophet performs undoubtedly gives him a humbling chance to feel the Savior's love for all His children, and likewise weep over their struggles, the ones He so willingly tried to remove from us. I thought of our sweet Prophet, praying for guidance over how to lead us, and then weeping for the struggles we have. A very tender image.

As I read on I quickly realized "marriage" is what causes him to weep. The staggering number of young men who "are of an age to marry but who have not yet felt to do so." And the growing number of "cancellations of sealings." In regards to the later, he says, "In the three years since I was sustained as President of the Church, I believe the saddest and most discouraging responsibility I have each week is the handling of cancellations of sealings." On a smaller scale I feel I can relate, as a missionary the saddest and most discouraging event came when Brother George stood firm on the need to have his family removed from Church records, undoing their baptismal covenants. I'm sure the Prophet weeps for similar reasons, undoing the covenants spouses make with one another.

This seriousness with which he spoke really drew me in, and I had to read the whole thing twice in order really grasp the complexity of my thoughts (and his) on marriage. So, to the pearls of wisdom he so tenderly shared.

"If you choose wisely and if you are committed to the success of your marriage, there is nothing in this life which will bring you greater happiness."

"Choose a companion carefully and prayerfully; and when you are married, be fiercely loyal one to another."

"Choose your love, love your choice" -- a plaque in the home of his aunt and uncle.

"Being happily and successfully married is generally not so much a matter of marrying the right person, as it is being the right person. The conscious effort to do one's part fully is the greatest element contributing to success." -- President Monson quoting President Howard W Hunter.

He says "We who are married in the house of the Lord do so for time and for all eternity, and then we must put forth the necessary effort to make it so."

I recognize that a lot of work goes in to preparing for a temple marriage, but he is exactly right, after we wed in that matrimony, we must move forward with great effort. We still have to be the right person we were trying to be while spouse hunting. To me, finding a spouse is a choice, and making your life work with that spouse is another choice. Complex and difficult choices, yes. And sadly, some of us suffer because of others' bad choices. As a spouse, we can't let our significant other's suffer.

Ben and I didn't simply choose each other this time of year, 5 years ago; we have to continue to choose each other each and every day.

For now, those are my thoughts on marriage.

A rant or a quaint story, you decide.

2011-06-29T14:13:00.003-05:00

I'll never forget my first lesson in economics. The schooling took place around my family's dining room table. I was young, but old enough to have earned my own money, and old enough to have bought my first candy bar with that hard earned money.

The chocolatey bar was advertised as 50cents. Perfect, I could sacrifice two hard earned quarters in exchange for sweet satisfaction. However, upon payment I discovered I'd have to sacrifice three additional pennies. As a young child, I felt I'd been cheated. Hadn't the sticker near the bar read 50cents? Why was I so deceived; why did I have to part with the pennies, in addition to the quarters?

As my family sat down for dinner that evening, it would have looked like any other night in our home. We would enjoy my mother's wonderful cooking; a meal guaranteed to be made on a budget. We would also communicate the days events; the humor, the lessons learned, and any uncontrolled emotions would have an opportunity to be resolved.

Naturally, I decided to discuss my disappointment over losing those three pennies. Before I could fully express my deep despair, my father interrupted, "Don't ever complain about having to pay taxes!"

Taxes?! My poor little mind couldn't believe my father had sided with the unpleasant store clerk. But he spoke with such authority that I knew I had better keep my mouth shut. I'd have to forget about ever seeing those three pennies again.

He continued. "We wouldn't have any of this food if it weren't for taxes!" Imagine my surprise, all this time I thought the money my father earned as one of our town's two elementary school principals was what made our family meals possible, not taxes. I'm not sure if I dared question him in his time of clear anger, or if he just went on explaining the whole process.

"My paycheck comes from the tax money the community and the state collect from purchases like your candy bar."

I sat stupefied, so everyone gets paid from taxes?

"No. The owners of local companies like Droubay Chevrolet earn their paychecks from the sale of their cars. We support Droubay Chevrolet by buying our family cars locally; they support us by paying taxes. If it weren't for taxes I wouldn't get paid. If people didn't buy Droubay Chevrolet cars, the workers at Droubay's wouldn't get paid." It's all part of being a society. It's how we support one another.

The cloud had lifted. Though I was young, it all made sense. Perhaps it made too much sense; people gave a lot more money for things like cars than they did things like taxes.

** I acknowledge this is a work of creative non-fiction. My mother will say "you tell stories Alizabeth Anne." My father will laugh at the exaggerated beauty and fright I shed on our family time meals. And none of my three brothers will have any memory of this evening. But in my mind, what I have written did happen. Just as I've told it. And all of the events detailed continue to have a profound impact on my thought process. In hindsight I recognize we were not as poor as I imagined, and having more money didn't make it impossible for other's to be as humble as the rest of us. Also, the unpleasant store clerk turned out to be a delightfully funny woman once I grew up. I'd imagine the change was mine, not hers. This is simply intended to be a quaint childhood memory with all the undertones of the political strife I now see in the adult world that surrounds me. Maybe I should try to make all my political rants so "adorable."

Wedding Bells

2011-06-28T23:01:00.000-05:00

I'm grouping together a big chunk of the questions for today's post, but they all have to do with the wedding. For your benefit, I'm going to challenge myself to not use (too many) words, just pictures. Big step for me, I know. So here we go... (by the by, I have no idea where these questions were originally made up, I just stole them after Ali did them)...

6. The colors: show some of the flowers and colors used.
7. The dress: was it what you always imagined, made just for you?
8. The little accessories: veil, shoes, jewelry
9. The reception: where was it at, show some pictures
10. The cake/food: tell me about it!
11. Favorite part of the day and least favorite part of the day, can be anything.

Bouquet: "Do whatever you want" florist! Here's my budget; PINK and PURPLE are my colors.

Jewelry and dress details

Details from the top half of my dress (and loveliest Granny present, miss her dearly).

Full scope of dress

What I always imagined? Never imagined what I wanted . . .

Made just for me? If you count paying extra for 2 bonus inches and speedy delivery, YES!

Little accessories: Brothers' tie (bonus: adorable baby).

More accessories: Shoes and tiara, no veil (jewelry showcased in dress photos).

The Reception: held @ Sutherland farm, gorgeous sunset always included. I heart my childhood.

One more full scope of dress, plus cake...

Cake details

FRESH flowers on top of the CAKE.

Groom with the wedding food, brides favorite: BRUNCH!

Reception food (not pictured): Key Lime Cheesecake (or was it pie?) and Andes mints.

Favorite part of the day? So hard . . . narrowed down to feelings of LOVE. Love I felt from friends who went far out of their way to support me.

Everyone from old High School pals --

-- to college buddies --

-- to greatest "sister" ever.

Love felt from family . . .

. . . the ones who cried the whole time and the ones who didn't!

Love felt from the man who accepted me despite all my flaws!

(Okay, so I loaded this picture originally thinking I'd use it for the bouquet shot -- it's not our best wedding portrait, but trying to use so little words actually took more time than I thought, so I'm not going back and loading up another photo).

To reward myself (for cutting narration) I'll end with this shhpill. Today I have been thinking about how grateful I am Ben kept himself pure, just for me. A girl he'd never even met. Just one he had faith would show up. That's pretty amazing, and when I speak of the love I felt from him, that's what I mean. I'm referring to the love he so willingly gave me before we even met. I'm not sure that makes sense, but I think anyone who dreamed of (and prepared for) a happy marriage knows what I mean.

PS Two thoughts after editing: 1. least favorite part? don't have one, no girl should. 2. A BIG thanks to Mel, without her I wouldn't have these reception pictures, which I so deeply treasure. Who would have thought snapping your tiara on top of your shoes would come so up handy years later. Great work Mel, you really are fabulous with a camera!

An Engagement

2011-06-27T23:07:00.000-05:00

The second set of questions are about the proposal and engagement festivities. I'm finding this little "tag" more fun than I'd thought, simply because these are all things that happened before I ever had blogger. So I've never really shared the pictures and stories. Journaling and History have always been hobbies I enjoy, and I guess this covers both.

3. The proposal: how'd it happen, how long did it last, pictures.
4. The ring: did he pick it, pictures.
5. Engagement/bridal pictures: let's see them!

It's hard to organize this one. Ben and I had the temple sealing reserved before we were "engaged." The pre-engagement was a Utah culture I felt strongly about. I strongly thought it was foolish. I strongly disliked it. How silly to be engaged but not proposed to yet! Well, that's the situation I found myself in. Partly because Ben wanted me to meet his family first (or maybe he was just set on proposing in Navoou). Partly because it took a while to find my ring.

So let's start with the ring. I must have been 10 when I decided I wanted "a guy's ring." It may have been my jewelry-gets-in-the-way-of-daily activities attitude. Or my fit of feminism, where I felt like being the un-girl was the best kind of girl to be. It was just as likely the realization that if I were to walk around with a couple thousand dollars on my finger, I'd definitely loose a couple thousand dollars. Once I reached my twenties, no one ever believed I'd really go through with my desire to have a simple band. Boys and girls alike were convinced once I felt "wedding" on my finger tips I'd be crazy like all girls are and pour over magazines and drool over dollar signs. But I didn't. I told Ben to find me a nice band. He had a billion questions. "Can it have a diamond in it? Do you really want it to just be a guys ring? Should it be really nice gold or something?" I'd shrug. "Just a band." That left him little direction, so he took me to Needham's jeweler. (one of our dear friends is now engaged to a Needham, so I don't mean to give them bad PR, but) Can you imagine the service a girl who says "Show me a band" gets? Yeah, we were quickly turned out of the store. I think they may have shown us one or two things, but they clearly were not interested in selling a diamond-less engagement ring to a couple of poor college students.

So one evening Ben interrupted my studies at the library to show me a picture on the internet. "How will this work?" He showed me my soon to be ring. "I like it." "Well, do you want it?" he needed to know. "Surprise me." I really was ridiculously indifferent about my wedding ring.

I was obviously even more indifferent about Ben's. I just didn't want it to cost as much as mine. Hey, just cause I wanted a band doesn't mean I'm not a girl! He choose some heavy metal that's suppose to be completely scratch resistant, but he tested it against a brick wall . . . like any boy give that challenge would do. . . and it isn't as resistant as we thought. I think my favorite thing about our rings is that his fits my thumb pretty perfectly and nearly ever week at Church he grabs my hand and puts it there, while proceeding to twist it around and around.

Also, you'd be surprised by the comments I get. Many a stranger gasps at my ring, and tells me they love it, as if seeing a band is as shocking as 30 carats. Some friends have admitted they wish they had gone the same route. But my students were always outraged, I think they took it as a sign I wasn't really in love. And after our announced proposal there were always those who shrilled for the ring, and when holding my fingers just went "Oh." They obviously didn't know me very well.

So that was long . . . the rest will be told in pictures.

Ben proposed in front of the Joseph and Hyrum Smith statues, surrounded by a blooming flower garden, on top of the city's highest hill in Navoou, IL. It's across from the temple, and overlooks the Mississippi. We weren't able to get a good picture of the view looking toward the river (or a picture of both of us in front of the temple), but trust me when I say it is breathtaking to look out over the valley my ancestry struggled for. I was simply taking in my heritage and the beauty of the land when Ben landed on one knee. I was so excited and flustered I bent down to be side by side, and accidentally put my knee in his manhood. Oops. Way to make a moment!

Ben's sister and sister-in-law took our engagement photos. They are always fun to look through; we have hundreds and that's after I've deleted hundreds.

This one has always been my favorite.

This was Ben's favorite. Both were on our announcement (even though I'm kind of against kissing pictures in announcements, Ben gets me to break lots of rules I guess).

Each time I go through them there's always a new picture that kind of "captures" me. This time around it was this one. The top two were taken by Jessica (I'm pretty sure anyway) and this one was taken by Jamie.

I didn't get bridals. My dress was only scheduled to arrive from Malaysia a day or two before my wedding. Plus, I figured I'd just have our wedding photographer snap a couple for me. In hindsight it might have been fun to have a special photo shoot for myself, (I mean how many times do you dress up like a bride?) but without my dress or my hair stylist it wasn't realistic. This is the best picture we got:

Tomorrow is the wedding day, assuming I have the energy to stay up late and reminisce one more time.

It'll be 5 in 5!

2011-06-26T23:27:00.000-05:00

In five more days Ben and I will be celebrating 5 years. You may get a post about "our love story" each day until then. Brace yourself. I'm one who usually shies away from other people's "mushy" posts, but 5 years just feels like it deserves some mush.

While going through old posts (remember when blogging was all about tags and weird internet links?) I found a tag-like activity I copied and pasted from a dear friends blog; but needless to say, copying the questions to this tag was as far as I got. So tonight I'm going to start answering some of those questions.

1. How it all began: first date, first kiss, first picture, etc
2. When you knew he was the one: how and when?

From the get go Ben was different from all the other boys who had ever taken me out on a date. For starts, we weren't friends first. I wish I still had the voicemail, but I'm pretty sure it sounded something like this "Hi Liz, this is Ben Szilagyi from the 16th Ward, we met at _____'s house this last weekend, I was the guy with the shoes that have a world map on the bottom of them. Anyway, I have tickets to a film festival this weekend and wondered if you wanted to come with me? You can call me at ---.----." He really didn't need to clarify who he was. I had noticed him weeks before the "world on his shoes" conversation. Simply "Hi Liz, this is Ben" would have sufficed. But I thought it was so cute he felt the need to make sure I remembered him, and how silly of him to think his shoes (and not his beautiful eyes, quirky smile, perfect body type, and amazing ability to conduct an intelligent but interesting conversation) were how he made his mark. I made him nervous, and that was charming.

Another thing that made Ben different from any previous relationship was simple timing. The other day a friend's facebook status read "Don't fall in love when you're lonely. Fall in love when you're ready." When Ben first asked me out, I was ready. We both were.

Our first date was a huge success, one where you find out you have everything in common with each other. And not in a fake way, but sincerely realizing you could talk and laugh the whole night through without any awkward moments.

Over the next couple of weeks I tried to decode his "game." In hindsight I realize he didn't have one. He was simply courting me. Good old fashion courting. To a college girl in 2006 that was bizarre! And far more frustrating to figure out than any of the typical dating games. We'd have a great time on Friday or Saturday night, speak to each other during Sunday School, then he'd call on Wednesday or Thursday and ask me out for the weekend. I found it so frustrating that I had to go days without hearing from him, without him calling or texting to see if we could "hang out." He was being a pure gentleman and our modern world made me unappreciative.

After about six weeks of this pattern, he finally kissed me. A snowy night, on my front stoop, he just leaned forward pulled me in and kissed me. Before the date, my mother and boss both predicted this would be the night. My mom (in all her cuteness) made me promise to call her when I got home. Well, it was nearly midnight and I wasn't about to wake her up. No, I just crawled in bed and slept with my bliss. First thing the next morning she rang, all disappointed that he hadn't made his next move. I had to laugh, she hadn't even met him, but I realized she was really rooting for our relationship. A mother knows best.

Over the next two weeks we saw each other every day. We met on campus to eat lunch or study, he came to my intramural Basketball games, or I went to his "Student's Together Ending Poverty" functions. He and his friend Aaron came home with me over Easter holiday (Aaron tagging along may require a little explanation, but you're not going to get it this time around).

I remember walking through the Sutherland Church parking lot, hand in hand, just knowing he was thinking about marriage. He joked with Aaron, "Yeah, my in-laws are pretty cool," and I knew the look he threw me was really a question, a check-in on my reaction. I responded with an affirmative, I was already imagining our life together. Sure enough, on the drive home (with a little help from Aaron's surprise trivia) we talked about all the details. Not wedding details, but the reality of what life together might look like. It was a beautiful picture, one previously thought out in both our minds. That night, back in Logan we attended Ward Prayer, but before we went inside the Church he just had to find out if I'd been praying about him. Of course I had. I had been praying about him before he asked me out on that first date. I was ready for life's next step, and I had no doubt he was the one to take it with.

So did I answer both questions -- scroll up -- Oh! The first picture.

Well, just as my mom was cheering for Ben before she even met him, his parents were doing the same. So naturally, they wanted pictures. I remember we were eating lunch together in the Taggart Student Center when he told me he needed to take a picture of me for his parents . . . "Well, we're that serious?" I thought. In my mind I knew we were, but his need to photo me for the family confirmed my suspicions that he was digging me as deeply. This picture represents that lovely sense of satisfaction.

Yesteryears

2011-06-24T12:24:00.000-05:00

I don't really know what that word means, but I wanted to use it for this post. I've been going back and reading posts from the first two years of this blog, and boy, they are a crack up!

Was my job at Dunbar really that crazy? I guess it was. I think I've purposefully suppressed some of those memories, like coaching the girls JV Basketball team. What a nightmare.

All in all, I really miss my Dunbar experiences. Deal was fabulous and I really don't think I could have ever gotten pregnant and gone to work pregnant while working at Dunbar. I know it was all Divinely set up, but sometimes I still really wish I could have stayed at Dunbar through all my DCPS years.

Teaching inner city was always my intent. I remember the comments I'd get. Well, not really the comments directed to me, just the ones directed at me. "Why would she want to teach those kids?" was perhaps the worst one. I was sitting in a chair in the faculty room at Mountain Crest High School, where I was student teaching, and the teacher asking the question couldn't even ask me, even though she was 5 feet away, looking right at me, she had to ask my co-operating teacher.

Well, I've taught "both" kinds of kids. And I'm happy to report, the ones I love and miss the most are "those kind."

Anyway, I'm thinking of giving this blog a serious face lift, so don't be alarmed if I screw up and just delete the whole thing. For as much as I blog, I really know very little about blogger, can't work my way around it too smoothly. So we'll see how this all goes.

Punctuationally speaking, this post is a nightmare, and I don't really want to fix it. So I hope my "voice" prevails over my misguided grammar.

Jobs and Deficits

2011-06-23T14:33:00.001-05:00

As the Republican primaries start to snowball, I expect we'll hear a lot more about jobs and deficits. Although for most American's the latter is not as big a worry as the former. Even those of us with jobs would rather hear how our community is continuing to create new jobs than stress about our growing debt to China.

Now, I'm no economist nor am I super business savvy, but I do guzzle down my fair share of news articles and political briefings. Staying at home has opened my horizons far beyond NPR. I've followed these issues on the Economist, at the Salon, and of course a large array of typical US newspapers and magazines (NYTimes, Newsweek, Washington Post and Times, Wall Street Journal, etc).

So after truck loads and truck loads of information, of which I've tried so hard to be bipartisan I've actually probably read more articles from the right and glazed over more studies form top conservative think tanks than those from my more comfortable left side, I've come to three conclusions. Or rather, I've found three reoccurring issues I really think could help surgically repair our jobs and the deficit problems. I'm not talking about bandages . . . I'm talking about serious surgical changes.

Here they are:

1. Cut defense. Cut it deep. Even top Pentagon officials will admit you could take away large percentages of spending and not harm our nation's safety one little iota. I'd like to see cuts as high as 40%, but I'd be willing to accept 20%. Now, it's true cuts of 40% would mean jobs would be lost, manufacturers closed for business. So after these cuts we would need to make new jobs. On to numero dos.

2. Retrofit American buildings, find clean sources of energy, it's time to go Green. I know this one is controversial (just wait till you hear #3) but the truth is, even if climate change isn't the real deal, going green WILL create jobs and most of those jobs will pay for themselves after 5 years of lower utilities. Just ask the man who owns the Empire State building.

Think Civilian Conservation Corps, or talk to the elderly who grew up during the Great Depression. Do the trails blazed by the CCC have a daily impact on US life 70 years later? Maybe not. But the labor did provide a service most Americans have enjoyed at least once in their lifetime, and more importantly the work fed millions of hungry families and gave many young men skills they could later use once the economy healed itself. We can balk all we want about the government creating jobs and spending money, but the truth is (and this is a big thought coming out of conservative think tanks) the private sector won't invest until they know people have money in their pockets.

3. Three is my deep dark secret. Something I've believed in for a while but never really confessed to any non-believers (except my mom and dad who will love me regardless). But today, a Republican and a Democrat are working together to introduce legislation on it, so I'm just going to go ahead and say it. Legalize marijuana. Stop spending money prosecuting it and start making money taxing it. Some believe this move could wipe the whole deficit; I'm not that convinced. But what I do know is the side effects of marijuana are not nearly as grave as alcohol or tobacco. In fact, some of my former students performed better under the influence of a joint.

I'm still going to preach the Word of Wisdom, and I myself will always abstain from tobacco, alcohol, tea, coffee, marijuana, and drugs; but so long as the US allows tobacco and alcohol use I see absolutely no reason they should ban marijuana. Unfortunately, I know this piece of legislation will go nowhere, but now that my secret is out you're likely to find a full post dedicated to my belief that the US needs to stop spending money and resources criminalizing drug users and start targeting drug cartels while effectively rehabilitating small dose users.

The conversation shouldn't be about big government or small government, it's about effective government.

Pity Party

2011-06-19T19:56:00.003-05:00

Ben is out of town all this coming week, insert a billion sad faces here. He will be missed, but the work he does for us will be missed the most.

He wakes up with Reid every morning. Changes his diaper, gives him his medicine, and makes him giggle; all before I can make my debut.
The moment he gets home Reid is pretty much all his.
He takes Reid out to run errands so I can have the house to myself.
He changes pretty much every weekend diaper (and outfit).
He watches Reid the whole time we attend Church.
All of Reid's baths are given to him via his dad (thank goodness!).
Ben reads a bedtime story to the two of us while Reid eats his last meal.
And so much more...

I really might go crazy without him. He is such a wonderful father. While my mom was staying with us, Ben was changing a diaper and giving raspberries and as Reid's laughter filled our house my mom just looked at me and smiled, "He's one lucky little boy."

The Family

2011-06-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

The weather this evening was perfect. Absolutely beautiful. I just had to sit out on the front porch and pour myself into the June Ensign. I've had the feeling that something in that issue was going to strike me, and considering it's now the 16th of the month, it was about time I investigated what it might be.

Defending the Family in a Troubled World, by Elder Bruce D Porter. It was amazing. More spectacular than the 72 degree weather during a clear summer sunset. I think I was particularly drawn in because the comments from yesterday's post were still on my mind.

"If families do not fulfill their divinely appointed purpose of carrying on the light of truth . . . we can throw any amount of money or ideas or programs at our world's problems, and we will assuredly fail."

The article closes with a discussion on tolerance. The definition is perfect. I want my children to be tolerant of others. But I need them to know tolerance isn't "accepting" others theories, tolerance is simply listening to them. We can never let tolerance change our attitude toward what is morale, what is right and wrong. Perhaps most importantly, I need them to know:

"tolerance is surely a secondary virtue in comparison with the far higher virtue of love. Certainly it is good to be tolerant of those who are different than we are, treating them with kindness and civility. But love, or charity, is the highest of all, and it is far better to genuinely love those with who we differ."

I could quote so much more from this article, but why rob you of the joy of just reading it yourself? Hopefully, while doing so, the weather will be as complimentary for you as it was for me.

http://lds.org/ensign/2011/06/defending-the-family-in-a-troubled-world?lang=eng

Superman

2011-06-15T08:53:00.002-05:00

I'm still very passionate about Educational reform in this country. Therefore, I found THIS article enlightening and profound.

I plan on watching Waiting for Superman, it's the next film in my netflix que. I also plan on watching The Inconvenient Truth Behind Waiting for Superman (pun on words is extra clever because the man who produced Waiting for Superman also produced an Inconvenient Truth).

When comparing the US's failing school system with the astounding success of Finland's, I find three things most important, and Liz Hoelze (author of the above article) only points out two of them.

1. Poverty rates for US children are at 20%, Finland sits at about 4%.
2. Teachers in Finland are the second most respected professionals in the country, falling only behind Doctors.
3. THERE ARE NO PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN FINLAND. NONE!!!

Other things, like teacher pay, teacher qualifications, lack of grades until age 14, no standardized tests, tech schools and real life skills classes are also important aspects to note. But I think the three key differences I have listed says it all. If America could fix child poverty, start respecting teachers, and stop funneling public money away to private and charter schools (and finally close them all, in an effort to actually treat ALL MEN AS EQUALS (that's an American motto, right? I've heard it somewhere? Maybe the Tea Partiers could tell me where. . .), if the people of the US would prioritize those three things we'd see the kind of school reform needed to put our Education system on top.

But in all reality . . . it will never happen. Never. Happen.

So just make the sacrifices needed to buy the right house in the right neighborhood, and join your local PTA. It's your kids only chance to catch a ride with Superman.

Pride

2011-06-14T11:46:00.000-05:00

Ben takes the car to work most days and that leaves Reid and I "stuck" at home. Well, yesterday we took Ben to work and that meant we could run errands and do some grocery shopping. I was so excited and felt super productive. I may have bragged a little bit to Ben about it.

Well, pride cometh before the fall.

I really only had one thing on my calendar. For his Easter present, we bought Reid swim lessons. "Shrimp" class at the YMCA, oh so cute and I have been oh so excited. Counting down for months.

So I was totally surprised, upset, flustered, and heartbroken when I woke up this morning and remembered class started yesterday.

Wow! What a winner I am. It's the first "activity" I sign my kid up for and we miss the first day?!?!?! Luckily, after several frantic phone calls, the Y let me change his class to the July session. I'm still a little bummed we don't have "beginning of Summer" swim classes . . . but at least I'll get my monies worth and be able to attend all 6 classes.

I've set two alarms for my e-mail account and made Ben add it to his calendar. I really can't believe I forgot. On Friday I was getting so excited and nervous, and by Monday it completely escaped my mind. I'm a nut!

Good thing this "shrimp" is too little to know the difference or care!

A Ben Fact

2011-06-13T20:33:00.000-05:00

My husband loves flowers. Loves them.

I think it's adorable. His co-workers think it's nerdy. It's probably a little of both.

Picture us on the trails . . . I want him to speed up and keep the pace, he wants to stop and "smell the roses". He takes pictures of each new flower, comes home and pulls out his autobon book and files away the new species in his memory (and his iPhoto).

He picks wild flower bouquets for me all the time, only to have me cuss him the next morning when I wake up with out of control allergies.

We're kind of a mixed up pair sometimes.

I love my calling

2011-06-12T20:00:00.001-05:00

I'm not going to lie, having a baby to take care of and a class full of rowdy CTR's can make going to Church feel like a . . . drag? . . . chore? . . . I'm not really sure the word . . . but I know I'd just love to go to a meeting and not actually do anything. You know, the days when you just went to classes prepared by other people and felt the Spirit -- instead of the stress.

Oh well, I guess that's what General and Stake Conferences are for. I fully accept that escorting a squirming, screaming Reid out into the hall is my life now. And bribing 5 rowdy boys with a game of Simon Says is the best trick up my old rusty "teacher" sleeve.

But I do love my calling. Kids are just so pure. They understand the Gospel so plainly and simply.

When I showed my class a picture of Christ in Gethsemane, I asked who could tell me what was happening. One child humbly responded. "That was when Christ prayed to Heavenly Father to take all our sins away, and give them to him." Most the time the atonement feels so complex, but out of this child's mouth it was so simple. Absolutely beautiful.

In a desire to deepen their Gospel knowledge, I asked, "Will He just take them from us?" To which I heard a resounded "No, we have to repent!" and an echoed "And be baptized!"

My CTRs do stress me out. They are totally unpredictable, one week a group of 6 angels, the next a group of 4 duds and 2 devils (they are polite enough to each take their turns playing dud or devil). I never know which I'm going to get while I prepare our lesson. Or how many might show up. But I do always know I'll have little to teach them. I hold up a picture and they tell me the story, teach me the whole lesson with details I've forgotten ("Abinadi told King Noah he'd die the same way, and he did!"). This gives us plenty of time to act out the different scripture stories, or memorize articles of faith or learn new songs (or run outside and play Simon Says).

They are such a blessing to me. They show me that I can help Reid understand Christ's sacrifices.

He did pray to Heavenly Father, to take away our sins, that He may suffer them in our place. All we have to do is partake. What a beautiful thing.

Remember when I had a recipe and reading blog?

2011-06-10T20:42:00.001-05:00

These pancakes are so yummy! Any why yes, we did have them for dinner tonight.

It's a dry mix you can make and keep in your cupboard or the fridge. When you want some quick and easy pancakes you scoop out a cup of the mix, add a cup of buttermilk and an egg, and then mix it up. I also added a few frozen blueberries while they cooked, and viola, we had yummy oatmeal-whole-wheat-blueberry-pancakes. If it weren't for the syrup, it would have been healthy!

I'll put this up on my recipe blog, and you can go there to check out other yummies (the stuffed mushrooms have changed my life). I'm a little out of date though. But, I have been updating my reading blog. I need to figure out how to just run each of them on this blog, under different tabs.

Anyone know how?

Picture Pop Quiz

2011-06-10T14:02:00.003-05:00

Does it make me a bad mom if this face just makes me laugh? He can get so dramatic when he cries.

Have I mentioned how funny my parents are? They really are hysterical. Sunday night my abs actually ached because I laughed so hard. It was a work out! They are so perfect for each other it is amazing.

What's more telling about this picture? We forgot a hat, so we shaded him with a blanket OR we forgot a stroller, so we used the Zoo's (and then let him gnaw on what I can only assume is a very dirty buckle/strap)?

Don't they just look so much alike? Dad and his mini?

Now, did you notice each picture had a question? I expect answers.
really, I don't . . . comments or no comments . . . I keep bloggin!

I love my children!

2011-06-09T14:18:00.003-05:00

Yes, both of them! Ben is such a kid these days.

But last night I cut my finger and was a huge baby, so I guess we are even.

Helmet? Bank Robber? What were we going for here?

Well, according to the master mind, little Reid just kept rolling all over the place, so this is what he got.

Punishment, I guess.

He likes to play with anything but his toys. A book I just read, Bright from the Start, talked about the importance of novelty. This doesn't mean baby needs a new $$ toy every day. Just something new to play with.

Today . . . as he was pulling apart our radiator, I threw him my bra. Brilliant! It has all the things he loves in a "toy" 1. Strings (straps) 2. Cushion to teethe on. He was happy as could be, rolling around with ladies' undergarments.

He sure is a cute one, our little Reid!

Break Through

2011-06-08T19:59:00.001-05:00

As my mom was driving across the Plains, she called to share this little discovery with me.

"You know, the Church of the Devil is founded on love of sex, power, money, popularity. I think the Church of the Devil is politics." She may have said "politicians." I can't recall exactly which one.

Either way, I think she is on to something.

Stupid Weiner, I really liked you!

Anniversary

2011-06-02T16:19:00.000-05:00

My last post now seems a little ironic. I just got on facebook and one of my old MTC Elders posted a "Happy Anniversary" greeting on the Singapore Mission page. It's been seven years since the 8 of us started our great adventure.

Seven years.

This was shot day. I was terrified. You'll notice Elder Leishman and I each got two shots, apparently the Cache Valley area was missing something on our little check list. After earning some special treatment so that I wouldn't pass out, Elder MacFarlane and Elder Hafen hunted down an "I was brave today" sticker and made sure I wore it all day long. It's still in my journal. Makes me smile every time. Oh, the MTC. In case you counted and noticed there are 10, not 8, the two Elders up front went to Hawaii. We were the zone everyone loved to hate. We spent all our time with other English Speaking missionaries, but were going to Hawaii, South Africa, and Singapore . . . not Missouri, Utah, and Wisconsin.

Sometimes the memories are so fresh it seems like only a couple of years have gone by. Moments like last night, where I was suppose to teach some of the youth a little Malay, make it all feel like ages ago.

Words will never adequately describe the love and gratitude I have for the wonderful missionary experiences my Father gave me. They make me a stronger mother and a more patient spouse (which could still use a lot of work). My understanding of the atonement is much deeper, and not because of the hours of study. Being set apart by the Power of God to rescue His Sheep offers a special glimpse into the work of saving souls. I will never fully grasp the complexity of what Christ suffered for us, nor the love He has for each of God's Children. But I am so thankful that for 18 short months I was able to feel and witness the atonement taking shape in people's lives. I truly felt Him put His love in my heart. And I knew I was to share it. That is amazing.

Remember back when I shared the conversion stories I witnessed? Well, I have about three more written out, but I scanned the pictures in all wrong. Maybe this summer I'll fix that and continue sharing their stories. Missionary work is one of the most beautiful things on Earth.

Seven years ago today changed my life in enormous ways.

The Mission Field

2011-06-02T08:52:00.002-05:00

I never understood why Utahns (and SE Idahoans) refer to the other 49 states as The Mission Field. One of the Elders in my MTC district was born and raised in Ogden, UT -- and converted to the Church at 18.

Either way, I know raising kids in "The Mission Field" adds some extra stress for some parents. Who will my kids date? How will I know their friends have high standards? Etc. etc. Mine is, will they really enjoy Seminary?

Well, two of the first sisters I got to know in our new ward share a story. A conversion story. And it goes something like this. "I started dating _________ in High School and he told me he was Mormon. I was like OK? My baptism and his mission later (not always in that order), here we are!"

Last night I helped with mutual and one of the YM had his HS girlfriend, whose appearance alone told me she had high standards, there with him. She's Baptist and I'm sure she walked around with that same OK -- question mark -- in her brain all night, but in the end I know she felt the Spirit and enjoyed herself. Even if the two don't end up together, she'll always have the memory of one spiritual evening inside an LDS Church.

One last anecdote. At my last school I had three gay coworkers. I'd always heard about Later-day Saints working in the DC area being attacked with questions about our standing in Prop-8, and tho I'd prepared myself fully, I really hoped the whole topic would not come up. Well, on nearly the last day of school one of these colleagues asked about my religion and when I said I was LDS he shouted with joy "I was practically raised by the Mormons! I hear the irony, gay jewish boy saying he went to the near by LDS Church more than his own synagogue. I think I even took the, what is it, not communion, but the bread you guys have? Oh, I loved my Mormon Mama!" I was so relieved! Growing up his best friend was LDS and their family took him to all the mid week activities and to Church anytime something "exciting" was happening (talks, programs, etc.) He had nothing but good things to say about the religious community he felt was a big part of his childhood. Another co-worker (who helped me get the job) actually "came out" while studying through an exchange program at USU. Again, he had nothing but good things to say about his fellow Aggies. He even flew back to Utah to stand outside the temple for some of their weddings.

I'm just so grateful for members in "The Mission Field" (USU included) who fellowship others and make sure the Church bares a good name. I can't help but wonder how differently others' lives would turn out if as parents, we forced our children to only date or play with fellow Later-day Saints.

Gasp I'll Never!

2011-05-30T15:39:00.001-05:00

You know the whole parenting theory:
I'll never! = you will!

We'll I've decided to use this to my advantage and see how it turns out.

1. I'll never spend that much time planning and decorating Reid's birthday.
2. I'll never make fun family traditions for holidays like St. Valentine's and St Patrick's Day.
3. I'll never own a jogging stroller that's worth $500.

Alright universe, I've done my part . . . now you do yours!

To Do List:

2011-05-26T12:30:00.000-05:00

Make strawberry blueberry freezer jam
Read the US Constitution
Eat something healthy for dinner
Go to sleep before 10:00
Blog about Reid (7 months)

I guess you'll know how far I get on this list when and if you see a post about Reid, who doesn't even feel like a baby anymore. Seven months is so old!

Letters to Dead People

2011-05-25T13:05:00.000-05:00

As I'm sure most of you already figured, I waste lots of time on the internet. I wish I could stop. But the truth is, sometimes I think it actually makes me smarter. And I know it makes me chuckle.

Take this site, for example: Letters to dead people

The letter to Jesus is deep on so many levels.

This one:

And this one:

Sum up some pretty big ideas.
I admire people who can use so few words to wrap up something I ponder for a lifetime.

Anyway, as a lover of history, and literature, and humor, and politics I could spend my whole rainy afternoon on this site. But Reid is about to wake up, so I guess it'll have to wait.

In the spirit of my last post

2011-05-24T22:01:00.006-05:00

Sometimes I read something and it just hits me really hard. In a good way.

I came home tonight to find an NPR article about the nation wide battle over collective bargaining rights. The entire article can be found here. The part that struck me was the last three paragraphs, they refer to Nebraska. Read it, it's beautiful.

This week, lawmakers (in Nebraska) are expected to pass changes to the state's collective bargaining system, worked out with the union. Jess Wolf, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, says the two sides reached a compromise, avoiding a bitter public fight.
"We don't tend to like to do those types of things in Nebraska. We don't tend to want to get into everybody's face and make major arguments," he says. "We tend to like to try to see if we can solve our differences, and that's sort of what took over in this particular case, as well."
Wolf says he hopes Nebraska can serve as a model of compromise for other states. But with recall election campaigns that are sure to be nasty in Wisconsin this summer and a bitterly partisan tone to the battles over collective bargaining rights in other states, that may be unlikely.

I really don't get why politicians have chosen to make this so partisan. I can guarantee Michelle Rhee (my old boss) is a democrat, but she is a union buster to the max.

Overall though, it's not the partisan politics that bug me. It's the ingratitude. I could be seeing it the wrong way, but I really feel like the public is following along while wealthy individuals decide to make an attack on firefighters, school teachers, community electricians, your local plumber. The very people who serve you. Who make your existence in a community possible. We have somehow become the bad guys in this great recession.

This probably sounds more like a "poor picked on me" party than it is intended. I don't want to demand a "thank you." I just wish people would open their eyes and see the truth of the matter. Firefighters and electricians aren't millionaires. Teachers can't afford exotic vacations during their summers, they usually work another job and try to cram in months worth of lesson planning. Yet, as a country we are cheering on their pay cuts and loss of rights, while crying over the idea that someone who grosses one-million per year might have their taxes raised.

It just baffles me.

How does this all tie into that quote you wonder? I guess I just wish the whole country was Nebraska right now. My hat goes off to them.

People . . .

2011-05-24T12:08:00.005-05:00

There are a lot of things about Wisconsin politics that I love. I love that people here are really passionate.

But some are just plain bonkers!

How's this sound: a small group of people (two, I believe) are filing a restraining order against the Democratic Party.

How the H*@# do you file a restraining order against an organized political group? And I'm not talking about restraining PETA from throwing red paint on you -- that might make a little sense. I'm talking about filing a restraint against ONE of America's only TWO real political parties, for calling your house to verify a signature. I just can't even talk about how insane that is to me.

Passionate, I appreciate. Petty and pretentious I do not. I just wish these people would stop wasting the court's time. When I think about all the tax money and campaign money wasted over all this Scott Walker nonsense I can only imagine Ben's wages could have been doubled instead of sliced if things would have just been left the way they were.

At least it's comical to think about this dimwit up in Green Bay, spending his week filing an appeal to the judge all because he thinks strangers shouldn't be able to call his house and ask him a couple of questions. Do people in America really think they are "granted" that level of privacy? Hope his name doesn't sound Middle Eastern!