Karalea-Karalea

Goodbye Blogger

2009-02-21T22:05:00.000-08:00

After a long while of feeling unfulfilled with my blog host, I will be trying out a new one. Please visit me elsewhere and enjoy a little change in scenery.

a day in my life
Love you all, see you soon.

All Aboard!

2009-02-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

Another successful Redondo 1st Ward Activity! We hosted a "Loveboat Cruise" for our activity last Saturday night. Preparations involved giant porthole painting and scanning hundreds of stock photos for 'old school' cruise photos for advertising. We had tasty appetizers of vegetable platter/ranch, hummus/pita and chip/salsa/guacamole. The food was "international," ranging from spicy enchaladas to cheesy lasagnas and creamy stroganoffs. Salads, warm fresh bread and punch were served as well. Our new Bishopric put together a great video to honor the previous Bishopric, we had a karaoke contest and limbo and there was also a Valentine decorating table. The soundtrack included The Banana Boat Song (think Beetlejuice 'Deo'), The Girl from Ipanema, Copa Cabana, Loveboat theme and more! If you are looking for a very fun activity, I highly recommend this. Resort attire required!!! (Check out my lovely "leisure suit" or is it a prison jumper? HA!)

Hollywood Glam!

2009-02-10T16:49:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday night in the pouring rain, my friend, Melissa and I found our way up to Beverly Hills. We arrived at the *GORGEOUS* SLS Hotel on La Cienega. It was an event hosted by "Hostess with the Mostess." We had delicious hors 'd vours of fine cheese, delicate meats and crackers, fizzy drinks (non-alcoholic for us), and ended with a creamy white chocolate hot cocoa. We mingled, and photo booth-ed and listened to demos on party planning and drink mixing (not so useful for our kind!). We left with a posh black goodie bag in hand (with a beautiful raspberry OPI and a thick-bottomed votive holder). We visited the little girl's room on the way out (AHHHHH! It was completely walled with mirrors). We came out to rain and valet and a kind gentleman shielding us with an umbrella. It was such a lovely night. Thanks to Melissa for coming with me! She's up for almost anything!!!

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!

2009-02-10T16:31:00.000-08:00

The last week of January, we held our Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. It was a fantastic event, filled with fast cars and fabulous food. The boys all did a great job shaping and painting their cars. Quin made his a sharp shark mouth and sleek silver paint job. It wasn't the fastest in the group, but it did win best paint job! We served warm, buttery popcorn to all spectators and cotton candy to all "winners" at the end of the night. Thanks to all who helped make this derby the best in a long time!!

Create

2009-01-28T15:26:00.000-08:00

In the past week we have been making a lot of "things." I thought I would share them with you. First, I knit a small bag for a good friend's daughter. She was getting baptized and I thought it would be something nice to tote her little necessities in. I knit the little bag and lined it with an adorable floral print. Added a button and a glittery lip gloss. Included a sweet sentimental card and viola!

Next, I made some delicious agua frescas for the party after the baptism. I made a watermelon lime and a strawberry cantaloupe. I made them with sparkling water and lots of crunchy ice. They turned out refreshing and fizzy and wonderful.

The beginning stages of our Pinewood Derby car. This is Quin, sawing the block of wood. Tim is brave to hold the car for him. Quin is making a shark/Lamborghini. The race is tomorrow and I will post some pictures of the finished car. A big thank you to Tim for helping Quin so much, but also for allowing him to do MOST of the work and design. You are a great teacher and a wonderful father.

And finally, the one you have all been waiting for! This is our new/old TV stand. We refinished this great old piece of Thomasville furniture. It took three weeks and about $400, varnish remover, stain and polyurethane, hours of sanding and Tim also converted a few of the drawers to be hinged and hold our electronic components. I love it. Thank you, Tim.

I'd love to read about what you are creating. I'd love to see some pictures. I'd love to be inspired. Have a great Wednesday and go find something wonderfully creative to do!

Coraline....Karalea

2009-01-18T19:35:00.001-08:00

Just trying to creep you out. I can't wait for this movie. I love Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride and even the claymation of Wallace and Gromit. So it is right up my alley....just my cup of tea. The website for this movie is fantastic and fun and a little spooky. Check it out!Anyone brave enough to go with me? February 6th!!!

Up

2009-01-17T14:54:00.000-08:00

What have I been up to? Time for some pics after a few pic-less posts.

Finding a great old piece of Thomasville furniture from 1965 at the thrift store, to refinish and use as a TV stand/storage center. Most of the work is by Tim (bless him), but I am his muse.

Finding time to run every day. Signed up for the "Mud Run" at Camp Pendleton. It is a 10k. Tim signed up too. Along with 4 other couples in our ward. Tim's designing shirts for us. We are thinking "Dirty Saint" or "Mud Therapy" or "Camp Pendleton Day Spa...Mud Mask, Please" or "Don't tell the kids!" Wish us luck! Will post pics (June 6th is the day of event). This is Ewan and I down by the beach. We have a great running/biking trail at the edge of the sand and it is marked for mileage. We did a good 45 minutes that day! Ewan is a great bike rider. No training wheels for this four year old!

Today we went and saw a screening for Inkheart in LA. We went to the Majestic Crest Theater in Westwood. I subscribe to "Kids Off The Couch" here in LA and from time to time they have these great movie screenings. It is totally free (you buy the popcorn) and the theater is really fantastic and old. We had such a great time today. Thanks KOTC!

So that's me. I have been having a great time. Getting things in line for a great year. Trying to do things that are fun and healthy and economical. What have you been up to? I'd love to hear about it.

Answer to "The Transfer"

2009-01-12T14:26:00.000-08:00

My favorite book from 2008 was the long awaited "Breaking Dawn." The anticipation for the end of the Twilight series and the knowledge of the upcoming movie made it especially great. It was a summertime read that found it's way into my beach bag. So, not only was the book great, I was laying on my beach towel in the warm California sun, surrounded by good friends while reading it. Bliss.

I'm Interested

2009-01-12T07:37:00.001-08:00

I'm interested to know about food, friends. I'm interested to know what you love. If you would take a moment and let me know. I would greatly appreciate it. I'm interested.

I'll start. Here are some of my favorites.

1. Favorite all-around type of food: (American, Mexican, Thai, Italian, etc.)

While I have recently been having a small affair with Thai food, I'm going to have to say that my long-time fave is Mexican food. I don't especially love places like "El Torrito," which is, in my definition actually American fare. I like the real, nitty-gritty down-south Mexican food. Here in LA we have EBJ, Carlsbad was Juanitas, and of course if you drive just 45 more minutes down the coast you can cross the border and get some of the authentic stuff. A good roadside taco stand can't be beat, especially after a day in the ocean surf. If you haven't experienced that, put it on your list. I also like homemade Mexican food, from right here in my kitchen. Fajitas, tacos, enchaladas, quesadillas, carne asada and carnitas, a squeeze of lime...mmm....all good things.

2. Favorite breakfast:

I love eggs benedict (thanks to my dear husband), but my waist does not like eggs benedict. So I am going to have to say that Special K Red Berries with FF milk and a cup of herbal tea would be my current fave. It is quick and easy and crunchy and a little sweet and that is what I need right now.

3. Favorite Dessert:

OH! Where to begin....I can not choose just one. It is a close race between creme brulee and tiramisu. Those are my two all time faves.

4. Favorite snack:

Veggies and hummus OR fresh ww bread with raw honey OR farmer's market trail mix.

5. Favorite candy:

I love the York....but I can't leave out grape Laffy Taffy.

6. Favorite restaurant:

This one is hard, because now we have lived in a couple different places, I have my favorites from each location. Right now, here in South Bay, I would have to say that Dragonfly Thai is my fave, but I am still searching....suggestions?

7. Favorite drink:

I'm a Coke girl from birth, but I know it's not good for me, so I drink water...and lots of it! Every now and then I will treat myself to a good 'ole Coke, but that doesn't happen very often. Fresh homemade lemonade is really delish too. On a hot summer day....mmmm.

Okay, let's hear it people. Share. Vent. Be interesting...because I'm interested.

The Transfer

2009-01-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

It's time to transfer lists of books read. In 2008 I read these books:

* Marley and Me (Dec)
* Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons (Dec)
* The Story of Edgar Sawtelle (Nov)
* The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency (Oct)
* Tallgrass (Oct)
* The Last Lecture (Oct)
* Friday Night Knitting Club (Sep)
* Custom of the Country (Sep)
* Midwife of Blue Ridge (Aug)
* One Tattered Angel (Aug)
* Breaking Dawn (Aug)
* The Shack (Aug)
* The Revelation (Jul)
* The Prodigal (Jul)
* The Sacrifice (Jul)
* The Betrayal (Jul)
* The Covenant (Jun)
* The Glass Castle (Jun)
* The Thirteenth Tale (Jun)
* The Host (May)
* The Secret Life of Bees (May)
* walking in circles before lying down (Apr)
* My Sister's Keeper (Apr)
* The Invisible Wall (Mar)
* The Boelyn Inheritance (Mar)
* Water for Elephants (Feb)
* Peony in Love (Feb)
* The Mermaid Chair (Feb)
* The Constant Princess (Jan-Feb)
* These is My Words (Jan)
* The Girl with the Pearl Earring (Jan)
* The Other Boelyn Girl (Jan)

Thirty-two books for the year. Almost three books per month. Most of them I LOVED (btw, I am not super picky and usually can get something of value out of most things I read). A few were not worth my precious time. If you have a question about any of them, I would love to share my opinions with you. Let me know. Hip Hip Hooray for a new year of reading!

Resolutions

2009-01-06T14:02:00.000-08:00

In truth, my New Year's Resolution for 2009 is to journal (on Sundays..two Sundays per month will be considered a success..four Sundays will icing on the cake). I'm curious if you made a resolution this year. What is it? And how do you plan to keep it? Got a plan?

That said. As I looked at the first few pictures on my camera in 2009, it would seem that my resolution is to:

Make silly faces as often as possible in all photos taken of me....

Happy New Year. Here's to resolving to be better, or at least funnier....

Final

2008-12-31T10:43:00.000-08:00

One final post before 2009. I woke up this morning to a beautiful misty fog. I flipped on my fog lights and drove to the market at 645 this morning for a few last minute purchases before tonight's big party. Have I told you before how much I love the beachy fog? Well I do. When we moved to California three years ago, from Arizona, I was so thrilled to have some real weather; foggy, misty weather. I hope that the new year brings us things we love. So here's to a wonderful 2009, full of the things that you love....even if it is something as menial as fog.

Positive Report

2008-12-31T10:20:00.000-08:00

Positive report for the whole Christmas "thing." Christmas eve we went to Ruby's diner and ice skating up in Palos Verdes with our good friends, the Kirts. Did some last minute shopping and then it was time for white bean turkey chili and chocolate chip cookie baking for the big guy. Off to bed for a fitful sleep, before awaking to presents galore, excited little boys, funny dog and sleepy eyed parents.

Christmas dinner was an Argentine dish called "Matambre," which I believe means "to kill the hunger." Flank steak that is butterflied and filled with blanched carrots, fresh spinach, provolone, Italian sausage and roasted red peppers...then roasted and sliced. Ta Da! It was really great.

I goofed and didn't capture EVERY handmade gift that I made and gave this year. Here is ONE that I made for my sweetie. I knit him this ribbed beanie in dark brown Blue Sky cotton yarn. I wrote a little poem to go with it.

Dear hat keep him warm.
Keep him safe in the storm.
He is my tap & drum.
He is my peek-y bum.

Dear hat keep him sweet.
Keep him “vested” complete.
He’s my owl late at night.
He’s my snuggle up tight.

Dear hat keep him strong.
Keep from working too long.
He’s my bathroom serenade.
He’s my new nickname made.

Dear hat keep him strange.
Keep him wonderfully deranged.
He’s my dance on the bed.
He’s the odd voice in my head.

Dear hat keep him smelly.
Keep him cologne, mouthwash, gel-y.
He’s my water un-plain.
He’s my gummy insane.

Dear hat keep him thinking.
Keep him big feet so stinking.
He’s my facial hair change.
He’s my laundry to hang.

Dear hat keep him moving.
Keep him musically grooving.
He’s my leg always shaking.
He’s my low-cut sock taking.

Dear hat keep him real.
Keep him where I can feel.
He’s my lover and friend.
He’s my beginning, my end.

Dear hat keep him warm.

I hope that your Christmas was wonderful. I hope that sentiment won over commercialism and I hope that you are revving up for a great year in 2009.

Sugar Rush

2008-12-23T06:37:00.000-08:00

Prepare for a sugar rush. I promised more pics of homemade treats from this Christmas season and here is the first installment. This lot of pics is mostly goodies (with the exception of the Advent), but next time I will post some great handmade products. I have two days to finish crafting and I am both excited and feeling the pressure of time constraint. It's all going to be grand, of course! No stress!

This little make-shift clothesline was our Advent calendar this year. I simply took a length of turquoise satin ribbon and strung it on my sweet 50's "slat window" that separates the front room from the kitchen/tv room. I used safety pins to secure different little containers for the goodies and I printed numbers on turquoise cardstock. After the Christmas cards started pouring in (thanks so much to all who sent them, they're wonderful...ours are coming...had to send it two batches...envelope shortage) I simply pulled out the handy dandy clothespins and secured the cards on our line. Viola!

It's all about the packaging! Well....not really, I do like to open a pretty package to find something delectable inside, but I also REALLY appreciate some good packaging. I snagged the tins at Michael's and Big Lots. I picked up the red boxes at Walmart (of all places) in the craft section. It is a Martha product and I think they were so perfect, with their little compartments and polka-dot tissue paper. Thank you Martha, thank you.

Spiced Mango Chutney and Cumin Buttermilk Crackers to be sent to my diabetic daddy!

Time for candy! Pull out your trusty thermometer and watch it carefully!

Aunt Dani's hard tack candy. This year I let the boys choose the flavors. We got bubble gum, root beer, peppermint, orange creme, lemon and strawberry. Delicious!

Hard and salty sweet golden caramel chews. These are to die for!

Classic sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting and festive sprinkles (for Cole's class).

Iced gingerbread snowmen (again for Cole's class).

The French Yule log, Buche de Noel. White sponge cake with chocolate buttercream frosting. Isn't it grand. It turned out so well. This was also for Cole's class, they did a Christmas around the world and I volunteered to do most of the baking.

Merry Christmas to everyone, bless you and your families with good health and homemade goodies. Cheers!

For Jenn

2008-12-16T17:44:00.000-08:00

Jenn put in a request tonight, so disregard this post...unless you are desperate for a quick read....

This is a Cub Scout project that I had the cubs do for their moms. It is a VERY easy project, but I have found, in my year as the den leader, that the easier the better for this age of boys! Attention time is limited. We used yellow grosgrain ribbon, safety pins (found in the bead section at Joann's), and blue beads. The boys put the beads on the safety pin, cut the ribbon and pinned the beaded pin to fasten the "necklace" together. This will be used as a gift for each Cub Scout's mother, for a place to pin all those great awards we get as mothers when our cubs earn their badges. A few pics:

The boys also made a little gift box to put this in by cutting and Mod Podge-ing cool wrapping papers onto cute little boxes. They loved that...sticky and dirty.

It's Christmas!

2008-12-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Yeah! It is Christmas! I am so happy that it is cold and winter-y. I am so happy that there are Santa Claus's all over the place, lending their laps and "ho, ho, ho's" to us for the season. I am so happy that it is acceptable to make a baked goody every single day and nobody thinks you're an addict to sugar (did I just confess?!). I am so happy to send and receive adorable cards in the mail. I am so happy to attend multiple Christmas parties. I am so happy to get presents for those I love and to find boxes of unknown treasure on my doorstep (thank you my sweet UPS Santa). I hope that you are all just as happy as I am about this whole wonderful, sweet, holiday that is upon us! Yeah! It's Christmas!

My handmade wreath. Delicious spice drops, toothpicks, a floral wreath form, floral wire and satin ribbon. Ta Da!

See how Christmas-y it is! Can you see the decorated tree in the background? Ignore the sunshine, sunglasses, short sleeves and frozen yogurt in my hand. It is Christmas!

Ewan standing in line to visit with Santa in Manhattan Village Shopping Center. He was so excited and did smashingly, even posing for an adorable photo that I couldn't resist buying. iSanta. Ewan was mesmerized by this Santa in the Apple store window display. Can't blame him, it is pretty cool.

Chocolate Santa. Had to get one at Godiva. Hollow and smooth. He is my favorite Santa of all!

Our Police Department strolls Santa and his helpers through each street, playing Christmas carols and letting all the kids take a picture with Santa. He gave them a candy cane and told them to continue to be good. Cole and Ewan were in the bath (of course) and ran outside in towels as I chased them down with pajamas. By the time he got there they were dressed and waiting. I should get the "dressing-wet-kids-in pajamas-at-the-speed-of=light" award.

The first of many handmade goodies. These are my grandmother's orange cookies. They are my favorite and I only make them around Christmas time. The cookie is delicate and cakey, but not too sweet and the icing is flecked with orange zest and just melts in your mouth!

My sweet friend, Susan, is a makeup artist and graciously came over to "doll" me up for my husband's work Holiday party at the Glow Lounge in Marina del Rey. It was so nice of her and it made me feel like a million bucks! Who knew a little makeup could do such wonders?!

Tim and I got a sitter and spent an evening out. The Glow Lounge was beautiful, the food was delish and getting to be with my husband was wonderful. I got my bronze party dress at Shabby Apple and that amazing sweater at Anthropologie.

One of Many

2008-12-10T19:28:00.000-08:00

Here is the first post of many that will be displaying some of my handmade Christmas gifts. This hat was made for my dear friend, Holly, for her birthday (the 17th). It was made with soft, wool-blend yarn that my back-tack partner sent me from her fab yarn shop. I crocheted the hat in a shell stitch. Then I added a few crocheted flowers on the side, for flare!

Psst...I used the same pattern to make one for Jodi for Christmas. She got it and loves it! So...when you see her around town, looking gorgeous in her white cap, you'll know where to order one for yourself.

In the Strangest Places

2008-12-06T22:22:00.000-08:00

Steeping a cup of herbal tea, I stumbled upon a wonderful sentiment. On the box.

"...it is a wretched taste to be gratified with mediocrity when the excellent lies before us." - Isaac D'Israeli

I'm thinking that will be my motto for 2009. What will yours be?

Highly Recommended

2008-12-04T21:14:00.001-08:00

I recently was part of a swap. Let me explain. I frequent some fantastic crafting blogs and found out about a "swap" called "back tack." You sign up, promise you will do it and do it well, they assign you a partner, you create wonderful things to send to them (and they to you), you mail it by the deadline, you post pictures of it on Flickr. That's it. The theme for this swap was Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. It was so much fun and I really lucked out getting an unbelievable partner. Here is what I made to send her way:
For the Gold gift, I made a memory board with vintage gold buttons and sparkly gold handmade cards.
For the Frankincense gift I made Alfajores de Dulce de Leche (the most delicious cookie ever invented...think shortbread with caramel center...mmmm) and packaged them in a vintage tin.
For the Myrrh gift I hand knit and felted a bowl and make three ornaments (one for each member of her family). I sincerely hope she liked it!

She did me a great service and I received the most wonderful package on my doorstep as well. In fact, I think that I will go to bed now and write a small blurb in the moleskin journal (that is gently surrounded by felt o-so-delicately), as I sip a warm cup of spicy hot cocoa, followed by a much needed rest for my tired eyes; under a wonderfully pampering eye pillow. All these luxuries made possible by the wonderful back tack swap and my generous partner (I didn't even mention the two skeins of yarn, handmade ornament AND felted stone). Thank you Cate! Life is great!

The Crafty Crow

2008-12-02T06:02:00.000-08:00

Have kids? Check out this site for some fantastic ideas.

Only two

2008-11-30T16:38:00.000-08:00

Only two to go in the 30 days of thankfulness. Whew.

29 I am thankful for a good night's sleep. I find it amazing how much better I feel after having a full night's sleep. I am thankful for my king size bed, soft pillows, clean sheets, lavender vanilla pillow mist and down comforter. I am thankful for snuggly little boys who invade my space every morning and for a big dog to warm up my feet. I am thankful for my sweet husband who shares my bed most nights (work travel sometimes takes him away). I am thankful for a good night's sleep.

30 I am thankful for church. I attend the LDS church, but I am going to say that I am thankful for all churches that teach kindness and charity and general goodwill. I am thankful for all the people who give up their time to prepare lessons/sermons/talks to help those they are teaching. I am thankful to be able to believe what we choose to believe religiously and I pray that that won't change in the wonderful country we live in. I am thankful for church.

27 & 28

2008-11-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

27 I am thankful for my husband. I know that I already said this one....in fact it was the first of my 30 (his birthday is the first), but let me reiterate how much I love and need him. He calms me down when I need calming, he checks my attitude when it needs to be checked, he absolutely loves and adores me, he is a great dad, he is the hardest working person I know, he tries...I love that one. He is sweet and romantic and affectionate and helpful and patient and kind. I am thankful for Tim...again.

28 I am thankful for delicious food. I know that some people just need food for fuel, but not me. I need food for visual appeal, olfactory satisfaction and palate pleasure. I love to make beautiful, delicious and interesting dishes that compliment each other and please the senses. I love to sit down to a beautiful meal and enjoy every bite. I am so thankful for wonderful food.

26

2008-11-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

26 Cheap gas. I am thankful that gas prices have dropped so much in the last couple of weeks. We are officially below 2 bucks and that makes me SOOOOO happy. Thank you to all my good friends in the oil industry and keep up the good work of keeping down the price of gas.

Long Lasting Marriages and a Maytag Dryer

2008-11-25T06:38:00.000-08:00

24 I am thankful for marriage. Today is my parent's wedding anniversary. They have been married for......ever...and I am so proud to be able to say that. I am thankful that my parents have been strong, smart, and reasonable enough to stay together. They are amazing. Thank you mom and dad.

25 I am thankful for my dryer. It is broken, so it might seem like that would NOT be something I would be thankful for, but I am thankful for it now, more than ever. I washed all the pants and had to have Tim hang a line on the porch. Which I am fine doing, except there is no wind and the humidity is like 85% because it's going to rain. They refused to dry. So I washed up the other two loads and took my kids to their first experience at the Coin Wash. It was actually a pretty fun outing. The laundromat close to me has Pac Man video game, a soda machine, and the food network playing on a flat screen. Not to mention being mesmerized by the round-and-round of the washers and dryers as they do their duty. Anyways, the Maytag repairman comes today to fix my dryer. I am thankful for my dryer.

21, 22, 23

2008-11-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

21 I am thankful for my husband's job. He likes it. They appreciate him. Great benefits. Fun travel and fancy restaurants. Good projects. Good compensation. In a time when it seems all is uncertain, I am so thankful for my husband's job.

22 I am thankful for great movies. Movies that remove you from your own world and woes and transport you into their scenes. I am thankful for great movies. And great friends to enjoy them with.

23 I am thankful for children's voices. I love the honest questions posed each day. And humming little voices as they play in their rooms. Today, my little ones will sing in church. It always melts my heart to hear them sing out in voices loud and clear. I am thankful for their sweet voices, may they always bring forth kind words and sweet songs.

Double Thanks

2008-11-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

Number 19 & 20 will be a complete thankfulness for play dates. All three boys went over to a friend's house on Wednesday and next Wednesday they'll all come my way (my three plus two). I am thankful for the time ALONE I have to grocery shop, clean house, or just get an ice cream cone....but....I am also thankful to have a house full of kids; laughing, screaming, playing, running, hiding, hungry kids. Play dates, I am thankful for play dates.

Number 18

2008-11-19T15:45:00.000-08:00

My problem is not trying to find something to be thankful for, my problem is choosing which of all the millions and zillions of things would be noteworthy. Today is the 18th day of thankfulness and I am going to dedicate this day to Duke. Duke the dog. I am thankful for Duke. He is always happy to see me. He keeps my feet warm at night. He encourages me to exercise (so he can have a long walk). He doesn't complain about having the same thing for breakfast and dinner (in fact he is really excited about it). He barks at bad guys. He does what I say. He is such a great dog and such a wonderful friend. I am thankful for Duke.

Number 17

2008-11-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for cleanliness. After the ash situation, I got my car washed. Ahh, clean. I took Duke to the groomer. Clean, silky, smooth dog. Sudsy, blueberry smelling shampoo on three sweet -but dirty- little boys at the end of the day. A hot bubble bath and a good book for me (The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is what I'm currently reading and it is wonderful). A bleachy clean house. Lavender vanilla and Gain fresh laundry, folded nicely and placed in drawers. Vacuum lines on the carpet. The smell of Windex, Clorox and Pledge. Clean. I am thankful for cleanliness.

Thankful Number 16

2008-11-17T11:16:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for a roof over my head. Yesterday, as we went out to our car to go to church, here is what we found:
It's not a soft dusting of winter snowflakes, no, it's ash. I'm sure most of you know that there have been many wildfires around LA. Devastating fires that are taking the roofs away for many, many families. I think about 1000 homes have burned in the past week or so. As I saw this ash, covering my car, I said a quick prayer of thanks for my roof. Even if it is over 50 years old...I thank my lucky stars that I still have it, and I pray for those who have lost their roof. May they have another roof very soon.

Thankful Number 15

2008-11-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

Help. Today, I am thankful for help.

Saturday is such an interesting day. It can be a day of play, when my family decides to take the whole day off of responsibilities or it can be a day of preparation for Sunday and the week to come, or it can be a day of work. Hopefully it morphs into a combination of all of those options.

Yesterday was no exception. I went "sailing" in the morning ("garage sailing"). But I had a little helper. Ewan decided that he needed to help me spot the good ones. (He was right, I ended up with some great finds! Pyrex glass pie dish -Thanksgiving, yippee!-, a set of five vintage trivets shaped like little owls, and a brand new mens pajama set that will be perfect for Christmas...thanks Ewan).

We came back after an hour and started on the garage. Tim had a show, up in Hollywood, the night before and didn't get home till the early hours of the morning, but he dragged himself from the bed and came out to help me.

We had two chores that needed tending to; yard and garage. As I started on the garage, I heard my neighbor's yard guys firing up the leaf blowers and I thought..."hmmm, I could use some help in the garage, and if I get Tim some help with the yard, then I'll have his help with the garage." So Tim went over and wooed the man in espanol, convincing him to do our yard for a minimal fee. Then he came and helped me. Yippee again!

We went through almost all the bins and boxes, labeled each bin, threw away a pile of stuff, assembled file boxes, started compiling our 72 hour kits, took inventory of food storage, compiled a donation pile, and discovered a few hidden treasures. Here are a few pics:

After all day in that garage, we were able to get out for a date. My good friend Melissa threw a small soiree and I was able to help her by baking a cheesecake (did that during my lunch break from garage work) for the event. It turned out well.
We were also helped by Peggy's daughter Cierra, who, at the last minute, was able to babysit for us after our scheduled sitter canceled. So, that's it, today, I am thankful for help.

Thankful Number 14

2008-11-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

Thankful Number 14 is all about freedom. We went out to eat last night. In West Hollywood. At an LDS-owned restaurant. Let me explain.

As many of you know, Prop 8 in California has been a tension-bearing issue (even now, after the people have spoken in favor of traditional marriage -twice actually (we already voted on this issue in 1998 and passed it, only to be overturned by 4 Supreme court judges)).

West Hollywood is the home to many people in the gay/lesbian community here in LA. This restaurant has been singled out and had people protesting in front of it, trying to discourage others from eating there because the owner, who is LDS, supported Yes on Prop 8.

Okay, back to why I am thankful. I am thankful that we have the right to vote. I am thankful that we passed Prop 8 to keep traditional marriage the way it has been for decades. I am thankful that we stand up for truth and righteousness, regardless of what may be happening in the world.

I wonder, if Prop 8 had not passed (legalizing same sex marriage), if there would have been a whole bunch of Christians boycotting gay/lesbian owned stores/restaurants. I highly doubt it. I wonder why this issue is so heated, when the "domestic partnership" law allows people (no matter their sexual orientation) rights, such as being able to file jointly on tax returns, medical/will authority, etc.

Is it just the principle of the thing? Is it like two children who are mad because one's ice cream cone seems bigger, even though they both have ice cream...that's not fair!? Is it a tantrum on fairness? And I wonder, if the gay/lesbian community would have acted as they are acting now (violent, fanatical, childish) prior to the election, if California would have seen that side, would the margin be dramatically different in favor of Prop 8? I don't know.

What I do know is that I love our dear Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, for encouraging us to stand for what we believe in (not telling us how to vote, mind you. And if you are interested or curious on what our church has told us here is the link to the LDS Newsroom.) I love those people in my ward and wards across California, Arizona and Florida who followed their conscience and not their fear and stood up for what they believed in. And, in truth, I love our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters. I wish that they would open their hearts and minds in understanding that we ALL have the right to vote as our conscience dictates and we should not be persecuted for that. Because, that is freedom.

Thankful Number 13

2008-11-13T15:30:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for big brothers. I grew up with a big brother, who loved, tortured and stood up for me. I got to see him on my AZ trip and stay at his house and cook him a birthday dinner (sibling servitude! Ha!) He is a great person, soooo funny, and a wonderful father. I love him so much. Other big brothers in my world: My sweet husband was, and still is, a great big brother to his two younger brothers. And now I have a few really fantastic big brothers residing under my roof. First there is Quin, who is a great big brother for Cole and Ewan. Cole also has the opportunity to be an amazing big brother to little Ewan. (Ewan seems to "big brother" the dog). Kudos to great big brothers, may you always have the strength and energy to lovingly annoy and antagonize your younger siblings.

Thankful Number 12

2008-11-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for afternoon naps. While my vacation from home life was restful, it was also exhausting and I am so thankful for the opportunity to take an afternoon nap. I am so thankful that Ewan doesn't mind taking one with me. I am so thankful for a comfy bed, a fluffy pillow and the Backyardigans on the TV to lull my little one to sleep.

Thankful Number 11

2008-11-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the opportunity to just sit. It is not often in our fast paced lives that we just sit. Today, I had a moment to just sit. In the warm sun. On a nice bench. While my children played happily on the swings. I caught some birds on the electrical wires copying me and I thought I would take their picture to share. Just sit.

Thankful Number 10

2008-11-11T21:15:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for, what used to be, my immediate family. I had the opportunity this weekend to spend some time with my "old" immediates. We were a family of four. One mom, one dad, one son, one daughter. That was us. The Hitchcock family. It seems, now, like it was a story in a book that I once read, so long ago. It is strange to spend a meal with them around a table, as we did every evening. Dad still takes forever. John and I still rush through, and the conversation is still silly and joking. Looking back, though at the time I hated it, our dinners together were so important. I only hope that I can torture my children in the same loving way, as we sit down, a family of five, at our our very own dinner table.

Thankful Number 9

2008-11-11T20:51:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for best friends and high mountains. Do you have a very best friend? It seems like such an elementary thing to ask, but the truth is, I do. Cabrena is my best friend. We grew up across the street from each other and played Barbie dolls and "revived dead grasshoppers," we helped each other through hard times in our youth and even shared clothes and Grapenuts in college. We are the best of friends. This is a priceless thing that we have and if you have it with someone too, I encourage you to let them know. I did...teary eyed and all, I did. And you know, if anything happens, she'll know how much she means to me, and that is most important. Happy 30th my dearest, nearest friend.

It is fitting, that on her 30th birthday we climbed Camelback mountain together. Climbing a mountain, no matter it's height, holds so many good analogies and metaphors for life. Cabrena, her sister Veronica, and I spent 3 hours on Saturday on that mountain. It was a beautiful fall day in Phoenix and we were ready for an adventure. The first part of the climb was easy. It got our blood moving and our hearts pumping. We stopped a couple times to look at the view, take some pics and rest. Things started getting a bit harder. Some places were hand over foot climbs, right on the edge of the mountain. Some places were tight squeezes. Each of us had a few slips and falls. Nearing the top, we almost decided to turn back and be done with our little adventure, but we were so close and we made the choice to finish it. The last bit was surprisingly simple and when we did reach the top, it was so worth the climb. A lot like life, isn't it.

Thankful Number 8

2008-11-11T20:38:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for ingenious invention. Some of you may know that I am in love with my Dyson vacuum cleaner and I thank that handsome man with the accent on the commercials every time I use my cyclone-y suction-y piece of equipment. How excited was I to fly into Sky Harbor, use the restroom, and find this little piece of heaven?! Ingenious. You simply wash up, then place your hands facing fingertips down and slowly pull them upward. The dryer sucks all the water from your hands. It is so smart and I love it. Keep it up, inventors of the world, keep it up.

Thankful Number 8, 9, 10

2008-11-07T16:23:00.000-08:00

Thankful Number 8, 9, & 10 will be added on Tuesday, November 11th as I will be out of town and will not being taking my good friend Mac with me. I am so THANKFUL to be going to Arizona to visit friends and family, eat at all my old favorite places, hike in the beautiful desert mountains and even get a short vacation from motherhood and housewife-dom. Ciao!

Thankful Number 7

2008-11-07T15:57:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for a creative mind. I had to put together three centerpieces for a dinner party that is happening tomorrow night. I had a general idea about what I wanted. It is an autumn themed gala and the gathering room is huge, so I knew I needed height. I also knew that I could use these really cool pokey seed-pod things that fall from our giant maple tree in the front yard.

Thankfully, Michael's is having 70% off most of their fall decor and flowers (if you can call them that, they are more like sticks and straw). Thankfully, I had my dear friend, Susan to help me and be my second set of hands and eyes (she is *amazing* and doesn't know it). I had the vases in my stash and we arranged the stick/straw in those, filled the tops with acorn mix from Michael's, used 12 x 12 scrapbook paper, pokey seed-pods, gourds, bird nest floral decoration and of course, it doesn't hurt to have some fall-colored chocolate scattered about. I love to do most things creative, from centerpieces to sewing...from handmade cards to knit hats. I am so thankful for the little string of creativity that Heavenly Father has strung around my brain. Let it always remain unfrazzled!

Thankful Number 6

2008-11-06T22:39:00.000-08:00

Today, I am thankful for children's birthday parties. Today it happened to be my sweet, little Ewan's fourth birthday party. It was a wonderful day of preschool treats (my own handmade sugar cookie stars...with way too many sprinkles!), Ewan's own adorable drawings as party decorations, Spongebob's crabby patties (hamburgers with all the fixings!), Pirate's Booty, Goldfish crackers, gummy crabby patties, fresh yellow, tart pineapple and a delicious, chocolate Spongebob birthday cake...huge Spongebob jumper and fun little kids thrown in makes the most wonderful kind of day that anyone might want to have! Deep sigh. Big smile. Do you remember your childhood birthday parties?

Thankful Number 5

2008-11-05T18:06:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for my MIL (mother-in-law). My MIL is one of those who you will never live up to in greatness, but always makes you feel like you exceed her in every way. She came to visit for this past week and it was really when I needed her the most. Tim has been in and out of LAX umpteen times in the past 6 weeks and I have been solo A LOT. That didn't change this week and lucky for me, my dear MIL was here to carry some of the load. What load? Kids homework, meals, party preparations (a zillion and one birthdays this week!), laundry...etc. I love her. I am thankful to have her. She is amazing.

Thankful Number 4

2008-11-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for Tuesday Farmer's Market. Fresh fruits and vegetables in abundance. Nice vendors. Free samples. Beautiful flowers. Kettle Korn. Funny old Asian guys playing the guitar and the harmonica. Today I snagged some fresh tomatoes (four medium sized vine ripe and a basket of cherry),4 hungarian sweet peppers, 3 big red bell peppers, 4 onions, a big bunch of basil, 2 bunches of cilantro, 1 dikon radish, 1 Italian sweet pepper, 1 gorgeous head of red leaf lettuce, one bunch of green onions and a little mesh bag of red and yukon gold potatoes. All for about 14 bucks. If you have priced produce lately, you'd know that was a steal! And it is all fresh...still has the dirt on it...chemical free...and delicious. I am thankful for the Tuesday Farmer's Market. (BTW, if you live in LA, there are Farmer's Markets every day of the week in different towns, check the LA Times for days and locations! I go on Tuesday and Saturday in Torrance and on Thursday in Redondo Beach! I'm addicted to fresh food!)

Thankful Number 3

2008-11-03T18:06:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for my mom. I was able to talk to her for an hour today and even though I didn't have the most interesting things to tell her, it was just nice to pass the time with nonsense. She has always been easy to talk to and that, right there, is a huge blessing. My mom is practical and kind, she is a hard worker and she is a spiritual rock. I am so thankful she is my mother.

Thankful 30

2008-11-02T20:05:00.000-08:00

I love this idea from my new friend at "a view on the hill" about doing 30 days of thankfulness in November, the month devoted to giving thanks. I'm going to follow her lead and take on the pleasure of finding something each day that I am very thankful for. So, today I will have two since it is November 2nd and yesterday I was off celebrating with my dear sweet husband...which leads me into my first thankful moment.

I am thankful for my husband. November 1st was his birthday and we had the most wonderful day/weekend in celebration. A summary: Thai food, TJ Maxx shopping, Pinkberry, Tim's mom in town, overnight in Anaheim, Disneyland, long dinners with engaging conversations, ice cream cones, holding hands...just us. I adore my husband. He is kind and understanding and funny and hard-working. He is all I ever wanted and all I need. I am thankful for my sweetie.

Thankful moment number two for November 2nd (today), is my children. I am so thankful for good respectful children. Children who make me smile every single day. They are amazing boys who are both tough and sensitive. They are good athletes and artists, they love music and school too. They are each their own person and are strong in morals and values. I am so thankful for my children.

Women

2008-10-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

"There was a closeness among women...I was learning that when women liked each other the way Mom and Cousin Hazel did, they formed a bond that was different from what either one had with her husband. It didn't mean Mom was disloyal to Dad for being that tight with women. That closeness was in addition to what she had with Dad. He would always be the center of her world, but her women friends eased her life."

Excerpt from Tallgrass
by Sandra Dallas

I am thankful for all of my wonderful women friends. I recognize their great worth and I am eternally indebted to many of them for listening ears and comfortable shoulders to lean on. God bless each one of you with all the things you need, some of the things you want and healthy bodies to take you to the store to get all of it.

Autumnal Realization

2008-10-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

It is fall. I keep trying to tell myself that it REALLY is fall. That is a fact. September 22nd marked the date of the first official day. And yet, when it is 85 degrees outside and the sun is shining, it's a hard realization. Here is my documented proof that it IS fall.

Leaves are changing and then falling and finally being raked.
Spiders are spinning their giant webs and winding up a little snack.
Daylight is limited and they sky is a beautifully Autumn orange.
Costumes are chosen and Halloween party invitations have come.
The house is officially "spooked up" which was a great Halloween FHE.

Welcome fall.

A Woodsy Weekend

2008-10-13T21:33:00.000-07:00

Tim and I have decided that with three boys, we should be doing some camping! It is a relatively cheap vacation and California has some beautiful scenery to serve as our backdrop. Our first official family camping trip was last weekend, with our good friends, the Calls. We went to Big Sur, CA. Big Sur is about 7 hours north of LA, just south of Carmel and about 2 hours south of San Francisco. It is gorgeous and well worth the drive. Here are some of my favorite pics of our trip.

Day one of Richards/Calls camping excursion, 1) All packed up, 2) We made it! 3) Posing for the pic, 4) Sleeping arrangements.

Day two: 1) Tubing down the Big Sur River by our camp (Cole is the only one insane enough to do it, 2) Driftwood fort at the beach we found on a hike in Andrew Molera State Park, 3) Fly a kite on the beach in Andrew Molera State Park, 4567) Beautiful beach scenery, a quick sandwich during the hike and a pretty flower, 8) The hike in Andrew Molera with a monkey on my back and a hop, skip and jump across the river!

A few of my favorite things, 1) California Redwoods...I love these giant trees. I can't wait to camp the Redwood Forest, it's on my To Do list, 2) Our campground had a basketball hoops with plenty of balls to play with....pure heaven, 3) Kids playground in Big Sur campground...ahhh, 4) Running water, enough said.

It was wonderful. Kudos to myself for meal planning, shopping and packing all the crap that it takes to go on a trip of this sort. Kudos to Tim for installing the hitch and hitch-haul, making me a To Do list and driving both there and back. Kudos to Thane for master fire building. Kudos to Cia for being "game" to do this sort of crazy thing. Kudos to our 6 kids for being so well behaved and obedient. Kudos to Big Sur for having and maintaining such an amazing place for people to come and visit. And finally, kudos to our Heavenly Father for making our earth such a beautiful place to live and enjoy.

A Little Taste

2008-10-09T06:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give you all a little taste of some of the food I have been making and photographing for my upcoming cookbook. These photos show delicious dishes like Asian Grilled Sirloin, Texas Sheet Cake, Whole Wheat bread, Baked Ham Omelet, Tuscan burgers and more! Be excited....be very excited. I know I am!

On My List...On My Mind

2008-10-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things that are on my list/mind lately...

1. cookbook (it's true. I am officially making a cookbook of all my tried and true recipes. I have been sorting and typing and cooking and photographing like a nut. and, yes, that delish something-or-other that you tasted that one time at my house will be in there. and, yes, it will be for sale too. pre-order yours asap. email me).

2. back-tack (very excited about this...I did it, I filled out the little entry form and did it and now I am so excited to get a partner and get started on something amazing to send their way).

3. cub scouts (we are officially set for the rest of the year! and it is going to be soooo much fun. I'm so excited to have a kid and parent book club, make a hidden treasure/secret hiding place book craft, write a short story, do a couple of really great service projects with the boys and throw some smashing pack meetings).

4. knit gifts (my brother-in-law recently became a father! congratulations Matt. he has requested booties and beanie in pink and black. yeah. baby booties for the wee baby girl across the street. also my mom requested a wrap for christmas this year. started on that. also, thinking about making some felted bowls...hmmm).

5. camping (in less than a week up at Big Sur! determined to make delicious food for the crew while "roughing it" in the great outdoors. be assured that there will be photo documentation. be excited).

6. october decorating (I want the place spooked up. planning to do fun things this week to the front porch. involve the kiddies and such. should be great. photos soon).

7. november birthday celebrating (tim's day, ewan's day -think spongebob-, zack's day, john's day and cabrena's day...just a few of my fav-o-rite people...wheels turning as to how to best celebrate the wonderfulness of their birthdays).

8. december (i love december. i know that most people dread the whole thing. rush and party and consumerism and over-stimulation in general. i just really look forward to it all...oh and one more person to celebrate in december...a birthday...my dear sweet holly).

9. emergency prep (i have been gathering and organizing my emergency stuff. preparing. think food storage, fire extinguishers, gasoline, water, flashlights, etc. are you prepared?).

That's it for now. Just a few things that I'm working on and thinking about. I'd love to hear about what's on your mind and list these days. time for a date with the hubby. chat again soon.

One of Those...

2008-10-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those days.

I have ice cream in my hair.
Not because I am trying to add volume.
Because it has been one of those days.

A rundown:

6:27am sore neck wake up...poo.
6:29am - 7:22am news and knits...nice.
7:24am text husband who is in SF to tell him not to call me (morning was starting to get crazy with kids waking -read: teeth needing brushed, butts wiped, breakfast fed, scriptures read, lunches packed, homework checked and dog taken care of-)
7:25am husband calls, ignoring direction not to...he's nice.
7:26am - 8:35am all that morning/kids stuff up there...whew.
8:40am - 10am return emails, bathe Ewan, bathe me, make lists.
10:02am - 12:22pm grocery shopping with Ewan...yes, it takes that long.
12:23pm - 1pm make lunch and eat...mmmm.
1pm - 1:25pm light nap...wish it was longer...smashing headache....3 Motrin & Diet.
1:26pm - 2:05pm weigh in a friend (I run a weight loss challenge), talk to mom, wake up Ewan, out the door to pick up kids...smashing headache.
2:06pm - 2:25pm waiting in uber-long line at school pick-up...bad crossing guard...smashing headache.
2:26pm - 2:34pm drop off ALL kids at play date (we had our turn last week at our place), talk with good friend, accept camping cookbooks with thanks and rush off to get errands finished without the three musketeers following behind....ahhh.
2:35pm - 3:59pm fro-yo (couldn't help it, it was on the route) and B&N (I wish it was all for the pleasure peruse) for scouts, book club and camping trip....smashing headache.
4:04pm - 5:50pm bathroom Cloroxing, friend phone counseling, rushing house pick up, dinner prep, homework help, kid fight refereeing...ugh.
5:51pm - 6:06pm pick up Sisters for dinner date at our place....yeah!
6:10pm - 7:23pm husband arrives home, grill meat and steam beans ((Asian grilled sirloin, fresh steamed green beans with kosher salt, light green salad, sticky white Calrose rice and a ginger float...mmmm), eat, husband leaves for soccer games, drive Sisters to church for appointment....ahhhhh....headache has abated.
7:24pm - 8:27pm clean up dinner mess, get kids ready to settle down, turn on movie, pick up house, turn down beds, turn up night lights, brush teeth, de-bra and breathe....wooooooo.

Now, the life of a SAHM seems like it should be all bon bons and bubble baths. I wish it were. Some days are....but most days are like this. And again, ice cream in my hair. It seems like it was inevitable as I look back at that day. I am officially exhausted. Good night.

PURGE

2008-09-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

purge:
Pronunciation:\ˈpərj\
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s):
purged; purg·ing

1a: to clear of guilt

2a: to cause evacuation from

b(1): to make free of something unwanted
(2): to free of sediment or relieve

c(1): to rid by a purge
(2): to get rid of

Two weekends ago we had a garage sale. Let me explain a bit. A realtor in our area sponsors a garage sale twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall). You simply call a number and leave the message that you'd like to participate with your address and viola! He puts up signs the night before, brings donuts the morning of, prints out a handy map for "shoppers," and sends around a charity truck in the afternoon to pick up any leftover items that you want to magically disappear!

So....in our house, we not only have Spring cleaning, we also have a Fall cleaning! This consists of going through every room, cupboard and closet in the entire house and removing things that are barely used to sell in the garage sale. This practice also tends to create new projects for me to undertake. One such project that stemmed from this recent purge.

Claiming a space of my own! The playroom closet became my project. I went to the hardware store and bought lumber, had it cut, found the studs, drilled holes and then screws into wood to make these 'oh so handy' shelves.

Now my many crafting addictions have a home to call their own! From beautiful papers to soft knitting yarns, it is a dream to have it all in order. Need a good carpenter? Ha.

A quick trip to IKEA and an allen wrench and screwdriver later and I have my own space in the kids playroom. This room is right at the front of our house and has a beautiful window that lets in an easy breeze. It is a wonderful space to be creative and be with the kiddies too. The boys have their projects and I have mine! Perfect.

I am ready for the season. Ready to create beautiful gifts to send to all my nears and dears. Ready to be creative (as a very influential and respected man recently encouraged us to be! Thank you General RS Meeting and President Uchtdorf!) Ready. You?

My Camera Appendage

2008-09-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Sophmore year of High School I had reconstructive knee surgery. Before the surgery I was a very active young lass and afterward, I was completely out of commission. I had a huge swollen, sore, heavy, bruised blob of a leg. It was disconcerting to say the least. But I bucked up and did my PT and got back what I had lost. I then proceeded to solemnly vow to never take for granted the ability to run...or even walk for that matter.

So, what's the point of this heartwarming story, you may wonder. I'll tell you.

A couple of posts ago, I mentioned my bad luck trifecta. I have replaced phone and just recently replaced my beloved camera. And now, I am SO thankful to have my dear, sweet camera back in my life. So deep is my gratitude that I am swearing up and down that I will not take for granted the fact that I can snap beautiful pics of my life on a whim. Like long ago when I regained the use of my much needed limb, I feel so happy to have a camera again. So dramatic.

Here are some of my first snapped pics with my new Canon ELPH (Costco.com had a great deal on this 8.0 megapixel digital camera if you are interested in snagging one for yourself!)

Whole Wheat Bread Recipe for Julie

2008-09-24T13:42:00.001-07:00

6 cups hot water (as hot as the tap will put out)
2/3 cup olive oil
2/3 cup honey
2 TBS salt
3 TBS Blue Ribbon Bakery Dough Enhancer
3 TBS SAF brand Yeast (they sell this at Smart & Final)
3 cups High Gluten Flour
10+ cups fresh ground whole wheat flour (I like the hard, white wheat over the red)

In Bosch mixer, add water, olive oil and honey. Turn to level 1 and add remaining ingredients in order. When enough flour is added to the dough for it to pull away from the sides of the mixer, let the Bosch run on "1" for 10 minutes (this is kneading the dough). Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare 5 pans with PAM spray. Olive oil your countertop and hands and turn out the dough from mixer bowl onto oiled counter. Form into 5 even loaves and place in pans. Let rise for 20 minutes (cover with towel). Bake for 30 minutes and cool on wire rack in pans. Turn out of pans, bag, tag and enjoy!

Called To Serve

2008-09-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

My good friend's son got his mission call to Santiago, Chile. This is my boy's special tribute to him! They were so excited about the whole thing and Blake left them a phone message right after he opened his papers! Hooray for missionaries!

It Comes In Threes

2008-09-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

It seems to come in threes. Bad luck, that is. Let me explain. My first stroke of bad luck came when my dear, sweet son Quin, got a hold of my cell phone and pulled the button off the center. It still worked fine, but I have a real problem with MY stuff being "messed with" and broken. As a mom, there are precious few things that are actually YOURS and only yours. The cell phone is one of them. So, after being upset and taking his cell phone away from him, (Quin feels really bad about hurting/disappointing other people...he's a cancer...very sensitive) I gave him a big hug and told him it was only a "thing" and that it could be replaced. (Sidenote: I went and got a new, cool Samsung Blackjack, which I love). Second stroke of bad luck came while Tim and I were at the LACMA for our anniversary and I pulled out my beloved Cannon ELPH camera to snap a couple of candids, only to find that it is busted too. A big ugly crack is spread across the screen and it mysteriously shuts off when you try to snap a photo. Complete distress. I am such a photo junkie. Ahhh. Now, you're wondering, "what next?" I was seriously praying that it wouldn't be my computer. And God was compassionate with me and it wasn't my computer. However, on the first, wonderful day of school, I woke up squirrely early to make a big breakfast and set up our scriptures and such, and I wanted to play some fun music to go along with it. I push the button on my iPod, that was sitting happily on it's stand, nothing happens. Push again. Nothing. IPOD broken. Argh. Time to replace my ancient 20G iPod with one of the new nano video iPods I guess. Aww, too bad for me! (Yeah right!) Also, until I choose another camera, my blogs will be very wordy and lacking beautiful interesting photos. I have taken some with my super, hip new Blackjack phone, but I am pouting my way to another Cannon, so be patient. By the end of the month, I should be set. Now, in closing, my three strokes of bad electronic luck are over. I will have seven years of wonderful bliss. I am determined to make that happen. Cheers to a wonderful Tuesday!

Rockin' 7th Birthday

2008-08-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit late on posting Cole's birthday photos. There are so many to choose from, here are some favorites.

These were the custom invitations. We went to RAT beach and collected the "perfect" rocks to write on.

Beach City Rocks, the rock climbing gym where the party was held. This place is the best! Highly, highly recommended!

These were the favors for all of Cole's friends. The water bottle contained Trader Joe's trail mix, Propel water powder mix, Airheads candy, climbing rope, climbing chalk and a caribiner. They all loved the favors!

Cole is ready to climb. Geared up.

The place had such a great party section. A spiral staircase let up to a loft that had tables and chairs and a foosball table...not to mention a great view of the kids climbing those rock walls.

Nearly to the top! Both Quin and Cole really did an amazing job climbing. Two full hours of climbing was barely enough for the kids...tired and sweaty, they wanted more! More climbing!

The grande finale was Cole blowing out the candles with a big smile on his face. What a wonderful 7th birthday. Happy day my Coley.

On Cloud Nine!

2008-08-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

This year my sweet husband and I are celebrating our 9 year anniversary. The weekend prior, we went to a wonderful dinner at Gina Lee's Asian Bistro (so delicious, very loud and kinda pricey).

The morning of, I awoke to a beautiful wooden box full of indulgent bath goodies...candles, soaps, scrubs and salts, from a little shop called Freesia over in Westwood by Tim's work. I was so excited about this, because as we had driven by that shop a couple weeks before, I had mentioned that it looked like a great boutique. He took note. That's nice. The traditional gift for nine years of blissful marriage is ceramics or leather, so I played on that and found a great leather belt and a couple of ceramic tea mugs/cups that had that rough manly flare. Gummy letters spelled "Happy Anniversary" on top of Tim's computer. He was thrilled with my little offering of love.

That weekend we went to the LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) for a work sponsored night out (hooray for free perks!) We had delicious food that was all boxed up in pretty yellow cardboard lunch boxes of sorts. I had a Caprese sandwich, fresh fruit, water and a cookie...Tim did the seared Ahi salad. Live jazz music in the North Plaza and a walk through the Museum of Contemporary Art were highlights. We drove through Santa Monica on the way back and shared a little Pinkberry treat. I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful and fun week of anniversary celebration. I look forward to the next nine...and the nine after that...and the nine after that. Big sigh. Big smile. Happiness.

It's Time for Dodger Baseball!

2008-08-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

I guess it is widely known that there is a "Mormon Night" at many baseball stadiums. This was our first experience going on Mormon Night and sitting in the nosebleed section, surrounded by our friends and ward members. It was great! We ate CPK (we tried to convince the kids to get Dodger Dogs...they weren't having it, when pizza was at the next window!!) We also brought snacks and drinks in our little 12 inch soft cooler (good job to me for checking the Dodger website in advance, to see if we could bring food and drink and save a little moo-lah) and we splurged on soft-serve fro-yo with rainbow sprinkles...in a cute little upside-down plastic Dodger baseball cap! What more can you ask for...maybe a win for the team? Not that night! Those Diamondbacks pulled out a couple of runs in the 8th or 9th inning and we lost, 2-1. I can't say that I was devastated, being a native Arizonan and all, but I will say that we cheered our hearts out for the LA Dodgers! What a great family-filled night! Highly recommended to all who may have the opportunity to go in the future.

Pioneer Day

2008-08-04T08:17:00.001-07:00

Initially reluctant, we decided to attend the Stake Pioneer Day party. I'm not really into a whole bunch of crazy Mormons re-enacting the whole trek across the US in full pioneer regalia, but my boys were actually pretty convinced that it would be wonderful. They also requested to wear the full outfit worn by pioneer children. Well, to be honest, I don't really know what that outfit might look like...dingy pants with suspenders to hold them up...long-sleeved, buttoned shirts and some form of handmade hat that might keep the sun off the face? Girls are easier...long dress, apron, bonnet. Anyways, a couple hours before the event, I rushed over to goodwill and found some great plaid shirts that I cut up and made into funny pioneer hats for the boys. They were thrilled and sported them for, not only the event itself, but for days after. And, by the way, the party was great fun, interlaced with some crazy, but we all had a good time. Kudos, Torrance Stake Activity Committee.

Haircut

2008-07-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

Cole has a new haircut. He decided to see what would happen if he stuck his Blow Pop bubble gum in the front of his hair..."just to hold it there." In my house there is not peanut butter or Dissolve It...but there are clippers.

BTW

2008-07-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

By the way, along with Quin turning eight and being baptized, I also committed to making him a "comforter." A good friend of mine in Carlsbad (Natalie) did this for her daughter when she was baptized and I thought it was a great idea, so I followed her lead and made Quin his special eight year old blanket. He LOVES it.

You're It!!

2008-07-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

This TAG was on my friend, Kasey's blog (great blog...check it out) and I thought that it would be fun...I'd love to be reading it on some of your blogs too.

I...

I am: a do-er. I don't sit around and wait for my life to happen. I do.
I think: my life is great.
I know: that my husband adores me.
I want: to go to the Redwood Forest...this year.
I have: too much yarn.
I wish: chocolate was 0 calories.
I hate: last minute freeway mergers...get over already!!
I miss: The Euro Cafe in Arizona
I fear: being trapped underwater.
I feel: a little sore (long walk in PV this a.m.)
I hear: Ratatouille on the DVD, Tim's music in the background.
I smell: my yummy WISH perfume by Lollia
I crave: Pinkberry...it's an addiction.
I search: for garage sales on Saturday mornings.
I wonder: if we will stay in LA for a while
I regret: most of my college boyfriends.
I love: Tim, Quin, Cole, Ewan and Duke
I care: about the people around me...and think about them a lot.
I always: floss...a lot...3 plus times per day.
I am not: afraid of heights or roller-coasters.
I believe: the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true.
I dance: with my kids, but rarely in public.
I sing: at the top of my lungs in my car, with my kids.
I dont always: answer people's phone calls...but I always call back.
I fight: rough and unfair...ask Tim...pinching on the underside of the arm is not fair play.
I write: poetry, blogs, children's book ideas, journal, lists galore...
I lose: my mind when I don't get a break from my kids.
I win: at Scrabble, quite often and at Boggle a lot.
I never: drank a drop, smoked or drugged.
I listen: to what people say and then surprise them with remembering that stuff.
I can usually be found: in the kitchen.
I am scared: of bugs.
I need: fresh fruit, boneless skinless chicken and dessert.
I am happy that: I live where I live, I have what I have, and I do what I do.
I tag: YOU!! Do it.

Crazy Eights

2008-07-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Now that company has returned home, I have a moment to sit down at my computer and tell you all about an important event that happened last week. Quin was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints by his dad on Saturday, July 5th. It was a really wonderful day for all, but especially for Quin. He chilled out in the morning, playing video games and munching, then got himself ready in church attire...white shirt, slacks and new shoes. All dressed up with somewhere to go, we packed up and were on our way to the church. Quin chose most of the program, including his favorite songs, "Called to Serve," and "I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ." His primary teacher gave a talk and we watched a great DVD, then the baptism and confirmation. Cole and I sang "When I am Baptized" and Quin's grandpa (my dad) gave a heartfelt, touching talk on the Holy Ghost. The Primary President gave him a welcome bag with a baptism book and his Faith in God booklet. Bishop welcomed him to the ward and we were ready for treats!! Quin chose cheesecake, rice crispy treats and big, fat Costco cupcakes. Quin knows what he wants. He knew exactly which goodies he wanted. He knew he wanted to be baptized. He knows he wants to go a mission. I'm so thankful for Quin...knowing what he wants.

Getting ready for the big event...combing that long, wavy hair.

Brothers and great friends, most of the time. Quin is a good example.

My sweet, kind, soft-hearted first son. Such a big day.

Don't forget the other two munchkins and Tim, ready to baptize his boy.

Dad and boys, Ewan is behind Cole and wouldn't come out.

The deed is done and it's time for Thai Orange Chicken!

Peace. Isn't that a fitting last photo. It was so true too. Peace.

Cookie Company

2008-07-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

Deep breath in, deep breath out. For one week I have company. I'm in the thick of it right now. They came last Thursday and leave on Friday of this week. Three extra people to feed and entertain for one full week. I'm not good at this. I'm not good at company. I'm not good at people in my space for long amounts of time. I'm neurotic, as most of you know, and this is something that is so hard for me. Let me say that all three of them are helpful and understanding of my space and try really hard to make it pleasant and easy. I think what is most difficult for me, is that I lead a very fast paced life and throwing three old gramma's and papa's in the mix is like when you put the flour in the cookie dough and the mixer has to try really hard to keep it's speed. I am mixer. They are all-purpose flour. Be aware...I need them in my dough. Without them, I would be the yucky egg/sugar/vanilla/butter mush that doesn't taste all that delish. I need them in my life, but I really have to try hard to keep my speed. I know what your are thinking. "Turn it down, Karalea. Turn down the speed. Incorporate that flour a little slower into your dough." Well, mixers don't have an automatic turn down speed. Someone has to help turn it down...that someone is Tim. Tim is at work. So, I'm on my own...mixin' it up at medium-high speed, trying to get the flour incorporated. That's me right now...happy to be making cookies!

Life is Sweet

2008-07-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Life is sweet when you get to take a really fun day trip with a good friend up the California coastline to Ventura county beaches.

Life is sweet when you get to spend all day at the sandy beach, and in the salty ocean with a dear friend who you haven't seen in a LONG time.

Life is sweet when you are with those you adore!

Let me just say that I adore this girl. Jenna is her name, and if you have had the opportunity to know her, you'll know why she is so adorable. If you have not, let me tell you that you are missing out. She is the kind of person who makes you feel warm and fuzzy when she's around. She seriously makes you feel like you are the most important person in the world. Do you know someone like that? It is so priceless to have a friend like this. I wish everyone had one.

New Cub

2008-06-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

I am the Den Leader for troops 964 and 254 in the Pacificia District here in Los Angeles. It is a busy job, but very rewarding...especially now that my little 8 year old, Quin, is a full-fledged cub scout! This was last night's Raingutter Regatta...so much fun!

Keep It Coming

2008-06-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

Quin's actual birthday was Sunday. We ROCKED on Thursday. Friday, we DISNEY-ED. Quin got to pick all the rides and had us criss-crossing the park and getting a great workout in the 100 degree Anaheim heat. It was a very fun day. Thanks to Quin for a great ride lineup.

Are You Ready To Rock?

2008-06-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

Quin's birthday party was rockin'! He really loved every thing we did and kept telling me afterwards and the next day, "That was a really great birthday party, mom." Doesn't that just make it all worthwhile! We had 10 of the 12 kids show up and after 3 hours I felt like time had flown too quickly and wanted it to be longer (that doesn't seem right!)

A lot of help from Ewan with the welcoming sign and balloons.

Cool electric guitar balloon. Last minute find at Party America.

Get your backstage pass from the security guard (Coley) on your way in!

Let the gaming begin! The kids started with MarioCart on Wii.

Then changed over to Rockband on 360...Quin is LOVING this part!!

The cake...amazing...ordered from King's Hawaiian Bakery here in Torrance.

While not playing video games...what to do...how about make your own ROCK t-shirt?! Black, white, red, or grey and a handmade stencil(by me!), some fabric paint, ta-da!

Parting gifts were these sweet blow-up guitars with PopROCKS and your ROCK shirt too!

Thanks, Mom, that party ROCKED!

Tag

2008-06-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

This is for Susan...the only person I would probably do this sort of thing for....

6 Random Things about ME.

1. I love the really strong, pure smells. Let me offer some examples: rubbing alcohol, gasoline, bleach, fingernail polish remover and hair color/perm solution. I don't pretend to know the meaning behind this, but I assume that it must have something to do with growing up as the daughter of a hair dresser. What do you think?

2. I don't get sick from too much sugar. If I didn't think that I would blow up like a huge, fat balloon, I would eat an entire cheesecake...or a whole box of chocolate...or a whole carton of ice cream...whatever. I love sugar and it loves me too. We are best friends. But, admittedly, I have to stay away from my dear friend sugar because she likes to take up residence on my back side...and thighs...and belly....

3. Don't judge, but I really LOVE the feeling of a good sunburn. The weird skin tightening and hot/cold burn....ahhh. I DO NOT try to get sunburned...anymore...I admit that in my teenage-dom I did pursue the perfect sunburn.

4. I really like Julia Roberts movies. Most all of them actually...and I own a lot of them. I don't know why...she has big lips....I have big lips...I feel a connection...

5. I never use an alarm clock. Never have really. I seriously just tell myself what time I need to wake up and I will do it. Strange phenomenon. Also I wake up at the same time every day...the time does depend on the season...later in the winter and earlier in the summer. Right now the time is 5:29 a.m.

6. Six...I have six scars on my body. One: forehead (stitches...running with shirt pulled over head). Two: right eyelid (or eye shield as Cole would say...my older brother hit me in the eye with a vacuum cleaner hose...stitches). Three: left knee (surgery in 1995 for torn ACL, meniscus and other yucky cartilage sort of things...basketball injury). Four, Five, and Six: lower abdomen (three wonderful little boys, just leaving their mark on mommy's body as they entered this world in an unconventional sort of way).

From Quin, Cole, & Ewan

2008-06-13T08:14:00.001-07:00

Rock and Roll Birthday Party

2008-06-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

Quin's 8th birthday party is coming up and he will be having a Rockband extravaganza! Two and a half hours of cheesy pizza, fizzy orange sodas, gooey birthday cake, loud rock music and a house full of 8 year old boys....what have I got myself into? He helped me pick the invite's design...I think they turned out great.

Brunch

2008-06-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

I hosted a VT brunch meeting this morning with my Supervisors and the RS President. What's on the menu? Baked ham omlet, Apricot Cherry tart, fresh cut watermelon, juice and Ileen brought rolls. It was lovely and I feel good about the progress we made on improving our ward's VT program.

Stay-At-Home Mom

2008-06-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

This was my latest lot of product to be taken down to Encinitas and sold to Dreamy. 15 lavender sachet packs (3 per pack), 4 baby beanies, 6 baby beachies and 2 sets of knit booties. This was by far the largest lot of product that I have sold at one time and I was on a business high for the night. It is very fulfilling to have a lucrative little side business as a stay-at-home mommy. In the background, the huge vase with crepe paper flowers was a centerpiece that I made for a ward activity. Aren't they great? (thanks Martha, once again!)

Cabrena, Cabrena

2008-06-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Cabrena came for California sunshine, cool ocean breezes, Friday night BBQ's, Farmer's markets, Santa Monica shopping and, of course...Pinkberry.

Unexpected

2008-05-28T20:42:00.000-07:00

I plan my days. Sometimes to the minute. So, when days like today happen, I get the harsh reminder that life is unexpected. I must say that I face these happenings head on with a calmness that always seems to surprise me in retrospect. Today's plan was kids to school, Ewan to play date, sewing project, Target, nap, kid pick up, birthday party, dinner, sleep. Everything went pretty much as planned through nap. After lying down with Ewan for about 30 minutes, the phone rang and I was surprised to hear the school secretary telling me that Cole got a cut on his foot on the playground and I needed to come pick him up. They don't call for minor scratches. Ugh. Poor Coley looked so sad when I came in, lying down in the nurse's office, tear streaked cheeks, blood stained pant leg rolled, foot bandaged up. I signed him out, called for Quin too and piggy backed him to the car. Cell phone. Pediatrician. They don't do stitches. Urgent care. The urgent care was wonderful. No wait. $15 copay. Nice doctor. Cole was so brave, only crying once when the doctor had to shoot his foot full of "sleeping" medicine. As far as I can tell, he got 10 stitches. Unexpected.

Pretty Things

2008-05-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Every so often I get to help a friend with something pretty. It is a nice feeling to make some thing aesthetically pleasing. This time it was a pretty little centerpiece for an intimate luncheon...beach theme. I did pincushion flowers floating in square bowls with tan stones, surrounded by shells and sea stars. For the favor/dessert, I made 100 delicious cookies that resembled sand dollars (from the new Martha Stewart Cookie Book!) Sand Tarts on page 127. The bride's new last name starts with "R" and their wedding date, of course to finish it off.

Save A Opossum

2008-05-19T17:27:00.001-07:00

Saturday was save a opossum day. Not really. It just so happened, at six a.m., Duke alerted me of a visitor in our back yard. It was a baby opossum and it was not playing opossum. It was just moving a bit and I thought, "Maybe it will go away if we leave it alone, or it's mommy opossum with come and put it back in her cozy pouch." So, Duke and I went on a long walk at the beach, leisurly hit a few garage sales and came back home to find...the baby opossum still there. It had curled up in a little ball and was still alive. Ugh. What to do? I filled a shallow lid with some water and gave it to him. He was very thirsty. Then, I looked online and found the Southbay Wildlife Rehabilitation phone number and called them. They called back and gave me the numbers for the O.S.U.S. (Opossum Society of the United States) Can you believe there is a Opossum Society? Shocking. I called the number and got a hold of Toni, who asked me some questions then came over, carrying a cat crate with some nice comfy material inside. We went outside and showed her our new little pet and she picked him up with her hands (bare hands) and checked him out. He had been bit by something and needed some care. She took him home. As I proudly watched her pull her car away from the curb, I notice her license plate says: possm(heart)r. Ha. Opossum lover.

A Few Good Friends

2008-05-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

When Ewan is with his friends he is genuinely happy. Take a life lesson from him. I know I do.

Fire!

2008-05-19T17:05:00.000-07:00

Our Primary went to Torrance Fire Day. The boys had so much fun checking out the fire trucks and gear, spraying the hose and watching the firefighters put out a car fire. Very cool!

Another Wonderful Kind of Day

2008-05-19T16:47:00.001-07:00

How did I end up with such a wonderful circle of friends? As if my little party in Torrance wasn't grand enough, my Carlsbad book club friends treated me to dinner at Bistro West. I enjoyed Margherita pizza, very sweet and thoughtful birthday presents and free creme brulee. It does not get better than that. Thank you to all who came. I miss you all more than you know.

The Suds & A Thank You

2008-05-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

I've been informed, by my 6 and 7 year olds, that I have the "suds." Apparently, this means a pretty crappy cold in Spongebob language. They outlined my symptoms...sneezing pink bubbles, post nasal drip, random cough, pain in the neck (aka, sore throat) and a constant headache. That's me all right. Ugh. I am however, catching up on sleep, knitting and all the shows on my Tivo. There is a sunshine in this cave!

While I'm here, I'd like to say Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. It is a thankless job most days of the week and I just want to say "thank you" to all you women who are doing it. Thank you for doing your best to raise stalwart youth, good citizens, responsible adults...thank you. Also, "thank you" to my dear old mom, who made me the way I am today, or at least the way I strive to be every day...thankful for the little things, of service to all around me, patient, loving and kind. I love my mom, thank you mom.

A Happy Kind of Day

2008-05-04T08:04:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a great day. It was my 29th birthday. Let me tell you how it went. I woke up early (always a good thing) and baked two of the three birthday cakes I decided to make. First a pillowy Chocolate Tiramisu and then a gooey German Chocolate cake.

Then we hopped in the truck for some errands. First we stopped at the Starbucks and John and Jeneane (my brother and sister-in-law who are visiting) bought me my drink...so nice! (BTW, I get a short chai latte, nonfat, with whip)

We made it to the market and ate some fresh crepes (mine had egg and goat cheese, basil and spinach...yum!), grabbed a few samples of fruits and veg and purchased what we needed. (Let me tell you that the season is great for fresh fruits and vegetables in California! Cherries are out! Enjoy them while they last...kinda like life, right...isn't there a saying that goes something like that? Bowl of cherries? Ha)

We shopped Trader Joe's, came home and made cake numero tres (Swedish Birthday Cake). Thank you so much to Cia for sharing this recipe, one birthday wish granted! So nice!

We ate delicious bean burritos (from Jr. yum!) and drove down to the beach for a snooze. The sun was shining, the sand was warm, parking was great, not many people were out, I brought a good book and a big water. Pure happiness.

Then back home for hair straightening, makeup, vacuuming, food prep, candle lighting and guests. The party ensued. People came, music was played, laughs were had, food was eaten, gifts were opened (so unnecessary and yet, so appreciated!) A good night's sleep and that was it. Let me also say that I had many dear friends call and wish me a happy day. I am so lucky to have good friends, a great family, and a generally wonderful life. Such a happy, happy kind of day.

Trashy Novels

2008-04-27T07:25:00.000-07:00

Finished yet another "trashy novel." Not really, I'm just being a stinker (some of you know what I'm talking about). The book is called "walking in circles before lying down." (in lowercase...just so you don't think I'm being un-grammatical...is that a word? Pun fully intended)

I LOVE dogs, so this book was so great for me. The main character (read: totally messed up in all areas of life female) starts to think that she can hear her dog talk. As she comes to grips with either the fact that dogs can communicate and choose not to or that she is going nuts, she accepts her dog's advice that, "instincts" serve her best in making choices for her love life, her career and all other decisions, for that matter.

I LOVE this snippet:

"...dogs are what I do for a living. One reason I like spending time with them so much is they seem to think people are really good. They live with us, and obey our rules, most of which make no sense to them. And the main reason they do it is because they like us. When I watch them, sometimes I'm so blown away by how enthusiastic they are about everything we do that I have to go out and buy them something squeaky or chewy. Just because I love proving to them that it's not a mistake to see the world as a great benevolent place."

Isn't that great. The author is Merrill Markoe. The book is a quick read at 270 pages and does have "bad" words every now and then. (Disclaimer for those who are sensitive to such things). Great book. Happy ending. All is well.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-04-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like going to Disneyland is always an enjoyable experience; different every time and supreme in it's wonderfulness. One reason for this is that you never know who you will see at Disneyland. Once Tim and I rode California Screamin' at California Adventure with John Ritter. Bizarre. This last time wasn't anyone famous, but maybe they should be famous. It made my day to see these two beautiful ladies. Bless them for making Disney the "Happiest Place on Earth" for me!

Handmade is the Best

2008-04-22T16:57:00.001-07:00

My friend Kim's (formerly mentioned in the sugar cookie wedding cakes post) daughter, Danika is getting married! To a great guy. Lucky for me, I'm friend to Kim, who invited me to the shower (very nice of her). I helped out with the games (really cute "Pop Quiz" and recipe box with note cards for guests to jot down their favorite recipes for the newlywed). However, I found myself stuck with a dilemma: What to get Danika for her shower? Things needed for a happy marriage...hmmm. Apron and sexy undies will do! I made this adorable apron (some great Amy Butler fabric, chef style, a cute pocket and my signature embroidered "K") and bought some sexy black undies at Urban Outfitters! Let me know how you feel about about the apron...I just feel like handmade is the best!

Too Much Time on My Hands?

2008-04-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

Made sugar cookies yesterday. My friend Kim's daughter is in town for her college spring break and is getting married in about a month. I thought it would be cute to bring them a little dessert. So I made little sugar cookie wedding cakes. What do you think? Too much time on my hands, right?

Yesterday's Nutritious Dinner

2008-04-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Chicken and Quinoa

1 cup Quinoa (prepared with chicken stock)
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin)
3 TBS olive oil
1 onion (diced)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Fresh Basil (julienne)
Shaved Parmesan or Romano
Salt and Pepper

Prepare the quinoa according to package directions. Heat oil with a bit of garlic in nonstick skillet. Add chicken and cook about 5 minutes. Add onions and peppers and about a tablespoon garlic. Cook till vegetables are bright, but not limp. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and add quinoa and basil. Toss. Serve with shavings on top.

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out and other Incidents

2008-04-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday Cole was riding his bike in our neighborhood and ran into a parked car. He got scraped up shins and knees and a big bruise on his chin. The car was surprisingly not bruised.

Sunday afternoon the boys were playing in the back yard, jumping on the trampoline, and the neighbor kid to the back of us shot his air gun (the boys asked him to show them how it worked). Just by chance, the plastic ball thing from the gun hit Quin in the tooth...the front ADULT new tooth. Ugh. I was so bugged. The kid is 12 years old. I feel like he should know better. We got Quin into the dentist Monday afternoon and Dr. Taylor did a fantastic job fixing it. (Thank you so much) Quin was so brave at the dentist. I keep telling myself that it is the start of many "incidents" that moms with boys deal with. Here we go!!!

Last Day at Disney

2008-04-16T09:21:00.000-07:00

Thursday was our last day to visit Disneyland over Spring Break and Tim took off work to go with us. Yeehaw! The park was very busy and my back was killing me....but, there was still fun to be had! We rode the Monorail into the park and tried to get on Autopia, but they closed the ride while we were in line...so we raced to the Matterhorn.

Ewan is terrified of the rides, but he forgets that fact and wants to go on them, then snuggles up against your chest with eyes clamped tight! He exits the ride saying, "Too scary!" I try to warn him. Ha.

We did Peter Pan's flight (very fun and the worker guy gave our whole family these cool Honorary Disneyland Citizen badges, which the boys sported with pride), we walked over by Thunder Mountain Railroad and found a petting zoo, as well as Woody and Jesse coloring pictures (Ewan was so happy about that!), Cole and I rode Thunder Mountain then met the others at Pirate Island (used to be Tom Sawyer island).

That was our great day. Thanks so much to Tim for coming with us. It means a lot to me (not bearing the full load), but even more to the boys (more important than a day at work). You'll see at the end of the photos, that the best part of this day came at the very end...

Spring Break 2008 Day 3

2008-04-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

Disneyland again...ahhh pure heaven. Could it possibly get any more fun than yesterday? Why, yes, it can! And it did! The rundown:

Quick Jamba in Downtown Disney
Monorail into the park
Buzz Lightyear
Astro Orbiters
Bug's Life Creepy Show (with poo smell and acid burns!)
Bug's Life H2O
Caterpillar
Bug Hot Air Balloon
Soarin' Over California

Now this may not sound like the funnest Disneyland trip to YOU, but just look at the pics and you'll have to agree that it looks like we had a ball...because we did! Ready for day 4!!!! Thanks so much to Melissa, Audrey and Claire for meeting us in Bug's Life!

The Price of Friendship

2008-04-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

Susan gave me a Ziploc bag full of goo and a piece of paper. How nice of her. Amish Friendship Bread. "Is it really a FRIENDLY thing to do?" I asked myself. The commitment alone is a lot to ask, but I did as the paper told me and "mushed" the bag for 10 days, adding ingredients as instructed. The payoff? These unbelievably delicious, cinnamon-sugary heaps of heaven, that's what. And what did I do to return the favor? Took them to my Activity Committee meeting last night (with the 4 Ziplocs full of goo and papers in hand). The deal was, if you take a yummy muffin, you are obligated to take a bag of goo and a paper. I came home empty handed. Ha! Friendly aren't I? Thanks Sue.

Spring Break 2008 Day 2

2008-04-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Spring Break 2008 will be fun. I am determined. Yesterday, we had a prep day, where laundry was done and house was cleaned and such. Today was Day One Disneyland. Matterhorn, Roger Rabbit, Mickey's house and pic with Mick, Treehouse, Disney Railroad, Mr. Toad's and ice cream sundae. It was a great day at Disney. Just warm enough...I think we'll go back tomorrow! Stay tuned.

Moustache

2008-04-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

Ewan thinks that a moustache is about the funniest thing in the world. At the market the other day, a man with a moustache was bagging our groceries and Ewan yells out, "HE HAS A MOUSTACHE!" Then starts laughing! I couldn't help myself, and started laughing too. So, of course, here is Ewan, fashioning my nail file into a make-shift moustache, then cracking up. I love that kid.

Oh Joy!

2008-04-07T11:10:00.001-07:00

Time for another Seaside picnic! This time it was after the Jog-a-thon and the kids were famished! After snapping out our big red blanket, we dined on yummy Subway sandwiches (the boys like the "pizza" sub for kids and I prefer the veggie with honey mustard...mmmm). Cole and Ewan then played chase with Joy, the most adorable little girl in the 1st grade. Cole shared some Cheetos and I caught a kandid. Later, Cole told me that it was embarrassing to get his photo taken with pretty girls. He is so funny. I told him that one day he will love to look back on that picture and on his good taste in women! A great day.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

2008-04-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

...It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day for a neighbor...Thursday was a bit overcast, but cleared off in the afternoon. I cycled down to Redondo Beach Farmer's Market with Ewan snoozing in the trailer on back, ate a fresh tamale and navel orange, and chatted with friends. Ewan played in the sand and on the swings and munched kettlekorn. We got sunshine and exercise and had an absolutely great day.

2008-03-31T16:30:00.000-07:00

I had a great Saturday. A good morning and in the afternoon, friends from Carlsbad (Jenn, Susan, Emily & Brenda). Susan's birthday adventure to LA. We ate Thai and Taco Bell, did Pinkberry and Pedicures and much shopping. It was surreal and as I awoke on Sunday morning, I thought to myself, "Did that really happen?" It was that good. Happy happy birthday, Susan. I hope it was one of your best.

Yesterday's Nutritious Lunch

2008-03-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's Nutritious Lunch was Turkey taco with corn tortilla, homemade salsa and romaine lettuce. The perfect little lunch for a very busy day! Book club at my house last night and I was busy all day preparing. You can see flower arrangements and jasmine tea bags in the background of this pic. If you'd like to see more pics of the book club last night go here.

Labor of Love

2008-03-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

Practice makes perfect. So I met a new woman at church. Her name is Susan and she is wonderful. She made the decision to be baptized and asked if I would say the closing prayer at her baptism. She is a gem, really. So I decided that I would practice my quilting skills out on her and make her a little quilt. Picked fabric, washed it (Jenn would be so proud), ironed it, planned it, cut it, sewed it, blocked it, tied it, bound it. Ugh. Sewing is so laborious. It was a two day project. That is a little long for me to be working on something, but I think that it turned out so nice. I traced and embroidered my signature "K" on there too....you like? Her baptism was today and I gave it to her. She swooned and I felt good about doing something nice for someone else...isn't that what life is all about? Good things.

Oh my Thai!

2008-03-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

Let me just say that I LOVE Thai food. My first taste of Thai was on the big island of Hawaii and was not the most favorable experience, however, since that time, I have developed a deep relationship with the fantastical flavors of this far away place. Let me just tempt you with some verbage...imagine the spicy hot yellow curry with a hint of sweet coconut or maybe the flaming chili with nutty cashews and fresh veg...sticky white rice...pad Thai with those yummy transparent noodles...skewers of tender, curried meat with peanut dipping sauce...ahhh, Thai.

Picnic Time

2008-03-21T20:18:00.001-07:00

Seaside Elementary Read Across America Picnic with the boys. We noshed basil chicken salad on whole wheat, fruit salad and Tings (Cheetos without the guilt). It was warm and sunny and all was right with the world. Quin, Cole and Ewan posed so nicely for a quick pic and you can see the multitudes in the background. We sat on a grassy knoll and basked in the sun while munching. Ewan snatched some kid's Happy Meal box and fashioned himself a sweet hat. I think that he has a future in head gear design. What do you think? Or maybe just in modeling the fashions. Notice his hand placement and his crossed legs. He is a crack up and I love it! Never a dull moment. I, however, do not have a modeling career in my future. Unless they are looking for someone to make silly faces while eating yummy sandwiches. If that is the case, I'm their girl. Ha.